5-star Mediterranean cuisine
The History of Antonio’s Ristorante’

Ten years ago, the offshore and very European owners of the Best Western Admiral’s Inn (located across the street from Cypress Gardens), gave culinary artist Paul Gago carte blanche to transform “The Mutiny Grill” from a neighborhood meatloaf and hash house to a “Five Star” classically elegant fine dining room.

Paul has fired up the local restaurant scene with thirty years of experience and his expertise in authentic Mediterranean Cuisine from the regions of Northern Italy, France and Spain…true Castilian.

Along with a serene atmosphere and exquisite service, Antonio’s offers an experience in fine dining uncommon to the area…tableside cooking, which Chef Paul introduced to Winter Haven back in the 1980’s.  His signature dishes include Steak Diane and Seafood Giovanni not to mention the absolutely wonderful deserts such as Bananas Foster or Les Cheries Jubilee…all prepared and sizzled tableside.

Not only does Gago heat things up with his culinary skills, he also fires up opera enthusiast’s with his impressive voice.  He often serenades customers with beautiful renditions of his favorite arias.  Accompaniment is usually with Grand Piano…now and then a little Spanish Guitar, Harp and Violin with local musicians.

Antonio’s is traditional, classic and outstanding…satisfaction is guaranteed.

Very important to Paul and his staff is the dining experience and culinary performance…
To create an evening to remember through a combination of elements that delight the senses, heart and mind.

Bon Appetit!

About Paul Gago

Paul Gago (Ga’-go) comes to us from the Coastline of Northwestern Spain an area of unique beauty and geographical diversity. This region of Spain is famous for its picturesque beaches, the majestic mountains of Galicia and fishing! The area is also famous for its bountiful crops of olives, wine grapes and citrus.

As a child, Paul's parents, both great chefs in their own right, provided a tremendous influence, shaping Paul's desire to become a chef. He was his father's biggest fan...looking on in awe as his father meticulously prepared each meal. Meal preparation in the Gago household was a performance in and of itself. Pa-pa' was a talented Opera Singer as well.

Once arriving in the United States in 1973, he spent his first twelve years in the Northeast Coastal area, New York and New Jersey, before settling in Central Florida.

Paul has mastered more than twenty-five years in the “Fine Dining” and Catering Business and is the former owner and operator of several Fine Restaurants in the Winter Haven, Florida area. Particularly well known was Lombardo’s Ristorante’ for its spectacular Italian Cuisine previously located in beautiful Down Town Winter Haven. Catering has always been a major part of services offered.

His expertise is in Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine from the regions of Northern Italy, France and Castilian…true Espana. This has earned numerous “People’s Choice Awards” for Best Wine List, Best Gourmet Food, Best Italian Food, Most Romantic Atmosphere and Top Restaurant in Central Florida.

Paul brings to you Authentic Nutrition straight from the heart of the Mediterranean. Only the Highest Quality ingredients such as Fresh and Natural Herbs, Fruits and Vegetables, superb Olive Oils. The finest Fish and Seafood, Meat, Poultry and Cheeses are used in over three-hundred recipes.

Very important is the Dining Experience and Culinary Performance to create an Evening To Remember through a combination of elements that delight the senses, heart and mind.

Traditional, Classic and Outstanding.

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