If you’re looking for a top-rated and unique New Smyrna Beach restaurant to try out, look no further than The Garlic. The Garlic invites diners to experience the authentic taste of the Tuscan countryside in a beachside Florida town.
A Local Favorite
Opened in 2003, this modern eatery perfectly combines traditional Italian flavors with laid-back Florida style. From the mouthwatering appetizers to expertly prepared entrees, to live music and a comprehensive wine list, this popular New Smyrna Beach restaurant is sure to deliver a memorable meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Restaurant Atmosphere
The atmosphere of The Garlic is relaxed and casual. The taste-tempting, robust aroma of garlic fills the restaurant while live music plays in the background. If you choose to eat outside, a lush, flowering garden with beautifully lit trees and an enchanting Old World fireplace help create a charming ambiance that is both inviting and cozy.
Whether you prefer dining indoors or outdoors, The Garlic can accommodate either preference. Private parties and events can also be held here with a personalized food and wine menu created by The Garlic’s executive chef. This option is especially attractive for family reunions, birthday parties, and other large group gatherings.
The Garlic Menu
The Garlic features several signature dishes that have helped to hook locals and visitors alike, even gaining national recognition on the Travel Channel. Starting with its signature garlic clove appetizer, The Garlic truly lives up to its name.
This delectable appetizer is made using an imported Italian oven known as the “Il Forno” that serves as the centerpiece of the restaurant. Several of the other garlicky dishes are made with the oven. The Il Forno oven gets as hot as 800-degrees, and its expert operators use it to cook every item with precision.
Other notable dishes include the Il Forno-cooked New York Strip Steak which is fire-grilled to your liking with a delicious garlic crust. The Chilean sea bass is another favorite here, which is pan-seared and finished with a lemon sauce and served with addicting garlic-infused mashed potatoes.
Vegetarians can’t go wrong with the Eggplant Tower. This specialty features layers of lightly breaded eggplant piled high with vine-ripened tomatoes and arugula then topped with Pecorino Romano cheese and a balsamic vinegar reduction drizzle.
Each dish is expertly prepared by locally renowned Executive Chef, Michael Perri. Perri creates innovative daily specials that appeal to his customer base yet are experimental and push the boundaries a bit, so there is always something new to try. As one would expect, the signature-featured ingredient is often garlic.
The Blue Bar
If you are looking for an interesting thing to do outside of merely eating at The Garlic, visit the Blu Bar at the restaurant. The Blu Bar offers its own abbreviated version of The Garlic’s menu, several tapas, and also a variety of specialty martinis. It has its own entertainment as well!
Hours & Location
The Garlic is open daily at 4pm. The restaurant is located on 556 E. 3rd Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.