Rick's Italian Cafe

Andy G.

Joined 5 months ago

Growing up on the Island, Ricks was always a favorite- HOWEVER its not what it once was. The food was the worst I have ever eaten there and I will never return again. The completely empty dining room when we arrived should have been enough to scare me away- but having faith in past experiences , we stayed - and I regret it. I'm pretty sure between the Stoffers lasagna and the PATHETIC excuse for veal parmesan- the cook should find a new occupation. The back talk from the kitchen over my complaint about the food could be heard in the silent and empty dining area- guess they have not figured out WHY the place was empty of diners, let alone control their voices when someone complains about sub par food. I Have know Rick and his son for over 30 years- a shame I say.

Recommends

TampaCitySearching

Joined 2 years ago

A Perfect Restaurant For Our Small Island. Being honest, Davis Island, a gem of a community in South Tampa, just outside of the Downtown Business District and home to Tampa General Hospital is not a dining mecca but we have a few very good 'neighborhood' restaurants.

One which stands out is Rick's Italian Cafe. While not listed in the Mobil Dining Guides of the overly critical world of uptight epicureans, it is very good non-complicated 'American' interpreted Italian home style Food Restaurant. The Food is fresh, properly, non-overly flavorfuled and severed hot; and the beverages are served cold. If you live here they conveniently deliver, if you do not you will not be disappointed that you came to Davis Island and enjoyed a good meal.

Doesn't Recommend

Tampa1968

Joined 3 years ago

Awesome Experience. Took my family there to celebrate a relatives' birthday. Food was exceptional, wait staff was very helpful and friendly.

We will recommend this place to all of our friends. Fantastic!!!

Recommends

CubanaBarbie

Joined 3 years ago

Great Food. My family enjoy the authentic food and family atmosphere. We really don't like big chains and the prefab food. Great wine selection too.

Doesn't Recommend

2flymaster7

Joined 5 years ago

Gross. I went there with my wife and hoped for a romantic evening with some good Italian cuisine. We were highly disappointed! My pizza tasted like they put ketchup on it and the employees were rude. Not only that but there was straight trash sitting at the bar being loud and obnoxious. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere else.

Doesn't Recommend

BethHollen

Joined 5 years ago

Why is this place still open?. Consumers Beware! How is this place still open? The service is bad, the food is bad, the place is dirty, and the family that operates it is a group of losers. I highly recomend that County Health Dept. shut this place down now.

Doesn't Recommend

bestofsouthtampa

Joined 6 years ago

Rude service, homeless cooks, Does not have food from menu!!!!. Very rude Jody waiter, lousy food cooked by what appeared to be a homeless guy. Air Conditioning was never felt at all.

Claimed to have run out of food that I ordered 3 different items. Get a menu and have the stuff on the menu.

Recommends

Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Of all the joints in all the towns in all the world, you had to step into this one. You'll be glad you did.. The Scene
Rick's Italian Cafe serves up a great deal on good food away from the loud atmosphere found in most of the larger Italian restaurants.

The Food
Rick's pizzas are served Neapolitan or Sicilian-style, and offer a variety of toppings, including ground beef, olives, ham, anchovies and vegetables. Be sure to try one of the freshly prepared salads or the antipasto as a prelude to your pie.

Skipping the pizza? Order up a dozen garlic rolls to munch on while you're waiting for your entree. Choose from simple Italian specialties that are always winners: baked ziti, veal, chicken or eggplant parmigiana, spaghetti and sausage, and a variety of cheese-filled pastas are all served in large portions that will leave you pondering your next diet. At lunchtime, be sure to try a hot meatball sandwich with extra tomato sauce.