Hidden Gem

Paradiso Ristorante in downtown Lake Worth is celebrating its 22nd year, and Chef/Owner Angelo Romano's passion for Italian cuisine has never been greater.

"At Paradiso, you will find traditional Italian cuisine with a modern interpretation. This blend of innovation and deep respect for the old traditional Italian recipes are expressed in these distinctive dishes," he writes on the eatery's website. "The quality of my cuisine is achieved through incorporating the finest ingredients, with an emphasis on premium fresh and organic products. I cherish the traditions of old and move forward with great enthusiasm."

The experience begins when guests arrive through barAmaro, named after its extensive selections of amaro (an herbal digestif) from various parts of Italy. Diners are then welcomed to one of two dining rooms: the contemporary, trendy Wine Cellar Dining Room or the more traditional Mural Room.

Chef Romano - whose culinary journey began in Massa Lubrense, a town on the Amalfi Coast in the foothills outside Sorrento, where he was raised - has created many specialties incorporating locally sourced products.

Indulge in seafood specialties such as the Salmone Scozzese Tartare, with Scottish salmon, Granny Smith apple and fresh ginger, and the Branzino al Sale, baked in an infusion of salt, lemon, garlic and olive oil. If you're craving homemade pasta, try the Scialatielli, Vongole E Arugula, which is a specialty pasta with clams, arugula and cherry tomatoes.

Frequent treks to Italy continually influence Chef Romano's cuisine, surprising guests old and new at this hidden gem.

Paradiso Ristorante is located at 625 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth. For more information, call 561-547-2500 or visit paradisolakeworth.com.