The Bottom Line
Pros
- Long history in the Tampa Bay area
- Extensive menu selection
- Old-school candlelit pizzeria atmosphere
- Three locations in southern Pinellas
Cons
- Crowded on the weekends
- Hours vary depending on location
- Lunch offered at South Pasadena location only
Description
- Address: 6852 Gulfport Blvd., South Pasadena; 105 Treasure Isle Causeway, Treasure Island; 4399 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach
- Phone: 727-345-0191
- Hours: Hours vary depending upon location.
Guide Review - Gigi's Italian Restaurants Review
My grandparents frequented the Gigi’s Italian Restaurant in South Pasadena 40 years ago. In the Tampa Bay area, it’s difficult to find an establishment that has managed to survive for four decades.
Because of the family history, I tend to favor the South Pasadena location; although there’s no better way to wrap up a day at the beach than a visit to the Treasure Island location and a piping hot pizza and a cool pitcher of soda.
What makes Gigi’s special? First and foremost, it’s the pizza. Since opening in 1967, these guys have perfected the art of pizza. Their thin, crispy brick-oven pizzas feature fresh dough, a zesty sauce and the ideal blend of cheeses and fresh ingredients. Toppings range from the standard pepperoni, Canadian bacon, ham, anchovies and assorted vegetables to more atypical possibilities such as shrimp, eggplant, artichoke hearts, sun dried tomato and Gigi’s homemade Italian sausage.
That’s only half the story, though: Gigi’s is equally skilled preparing one of their fine Mediterranean classics. Their baked ziti casserole is exceptional and their eggplant lasagna will impress the fussiest of diners. A pasta combo tops the menu, featuring lasagna, stuffed shell, eggplant parmigiana and a meatball.
Gigi’s also offers a wide selection of seafood including onion baked grouper, calamari, shrimp and a grouper parmigiana. A favorite menu item is the St. Tropez: Patrons select chicken, shrimp or grouper which is then sautéed in an extra virgin olive oil, garlic and wine sauce with black olives and fresh chopped tomatoes and served over angel hair pasta.
I have to admit that more often than not, I’m in the mood for pizza. When I’m not, I frequently select the Chicken Pompeii: This is marinated boneless breast of chicken, grilled and then smothered with sautéed mushrooms and onions and topped with provolone cheese.