Nestled in the heart of New Smyrna Beach, The Garlic & Blu Bar transports diners straight to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany with its enchanting garden patio and authentic Italian fare. As you approach, a vine-covered arbor invites you into a lush oasis of twinkling lights, flowering greenery, and a crackling Old World fireplace—perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the nearby Atlantic shores. This beloved mom-and-pop gem, helmed by Executive Chef Michael Perri, celebrates the bold, lingering flavors of Italy, with garlic as the star ingredient that infuses every dish with rustic charm.
Step inside (or opt for al fresco dining) and start with their signature complimentary bread service: warm loaves accompanied by olive oil, balsamic, and a smoked garlic clove for dipping— a simple yet addictive ritual that sets the tone for the meal. The menu shines with house-made pastas like prosciutto and pea tortellini in a creamy pecorino sauce, or linguine tossed with fresh tomatoes, basil, shallots, garlic, and parmesan. Seafood lovers rave about the cioppino, a hearty stew brimming with fresh catches, while meat enthusiasts savor wood-fired specialties such as the 8-ounce char-grilled filet mignon topped with caramelized onions and roasted garlic cloves, served alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Don’t miss the eggplant parmigiano, lightly breaded and stuffed with ricotta, or the gluten-free options that keep things inclusive. Vegetarians have solid picks like manicotti or Alfredo, though the focus leans toward omnivore delights.
Beyond the plate, The Garlic pulses with live music on select evenings, a curated wine list featuring Italian varietals, crisp Peroni beers, and meticulously crafted martinis at the Blu Bar. It’s an ideal spot for date nights, family gatherings, or post-beach celebrations, just a short stroll from Flagler Avenue’s vibrant scene and the soft sands of New Smyrna’s coastline. Open nightly from 4:00 PM (until 11:00 PM on weekends), reservations are wise for this hotspot—call (386) 424-6660 or book online. With over 3,000 glowing reviews praising its ambiance and service, The Garlic isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavorful escape that captures the essence of coastal Italian soul, making it a must-visit for beachgoers seeking unique, heartfelt dining.
Menu Highlights
Drawing from The Garlic’s wood-fired traditions and Tuscan roots, key menu standouts blend fresh, local seafood with Italian classics, ensuring every bite echoes the restaurant’s garlic-centric philosophy. Appetizers kick off with eggplant parmigiano ($25.95), featuring lightly breaded slices stuffed with ricotta and topped with mozzarella in marinara—a vegetarian triumph that’s crispy yet creamy. Pasta lovers indulge in prosciutto and pea tortellini ($26.95), tricolor cheese-filled pockets in a garlic-pecorino cream sauce, or the lighter linguine with sautéed tomatoes, basil, and herbs ($ market price). Seafood shines in the cioppino, a stew of mixed catches in tomato-garlic broth, while the NY strip or filet mignon ($ market) arrives grilled over au jus with roasted garlic and mashed potatoes—add shrimp for $6.95. Sides like garlic knots and salads round out meals, with gluten-free pastas available. Nightly specials innovate with seasonal ingredients, paired ideally with their Italian wine selection. These dishes, crafted by Chef Michael Perri, emphasize quality over quantity, offering 8-10 mains that cater to diverse palates while highlighting sustainable, Florida-sourced elements for a beachside twist.
