"When you’re invited to a private event at a restaurant that feels like it’s been tailored just for you, expectations are high. But at Tony and Lisa Damiano’s Counter Culture Beachside, those expectations were not only met—they were exceeded in every possible way. For a special celebration with 22 of our closest neighborhood friends, the Damiano's transformed their beloved restaurant into a culinary haven where each dish felt like a personal invitation to indulge. Appetizers: A Perfect Start: The evening began with an array of appetizers that set the stage for what would be an unforgettable meal. The flatbreads and pizzas were wonderfully crisp, each bite bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The eggplant caponata was the ideal balance of savory and slightly tangy, while the burrata with roasted Campari tomatoes was a creamy, decadent bite that paired perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes a personal favorite with the prosciutto with basil pesto drizzle—it was a simple, yet refined dish that left you craving more. Entrees: A Feast of Flavors: When it came time for the main course, the buffet was a beautiful spread of rich, mouthwatering dishes. The grass fed filet mignon with a black truffle demi glace was an absolute standout. Perfectly cooked, the beef melted in your mouth, and the truffle demi glace added a luxurious depth of flavor that felt indulgent yet balanced. The roasted potato pie was an unexpected delight, golden and crispy on the outside, with a comforting, creamy center that complemented every bite. Another showstopper was the Florida grouper with toasted hazelnut crust, finished with a roasted garlic and Prosecco beurre blanc that was light but full of flavor. The delicate fish was cooked to perfection, with the nuttiness of the hazelnut crust providing a satisfying contrast. For pasta lovers, the rigatoni with shrimp, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, and feta was a beautiful dish. The shrimp was succulent, the pasta perfectly al dente, and the basil pesto drizzle tied everything together in a fragrant, herbaceous finish. The chicken piccata was also spot on, with the caper butter sauce brightening the richness of the tender chicken, and the lobster ravioli in a basil pesto crema was a decadent treat—silky ravioli filled with lobster, drenched in a creamy, fragrant basil pesto that was simply irresistible. Desserts: Vegan Perfection: As the evening wound down, Chef Lisa took over with a selection of vegan desserts that truly impressed. Each dessert was crafted with care and attention to detail, demonstrating that plant based options can be just as luxurious and satisfying. The desserts were light yet indulgent, and you could tell that Chef Lisa’s love for both the ingredients and the craft shone through in every bite. The Experience: A Night to Remember From the first bite of appetizer to the last sweet morsel of dessert, Tony and Lisa Damiano’s Counter Culture Beachside was a truly special experience. The restaurant’s intimate setting, coupled with the personal touches from the Damianos, created an atmosphere that felt both relaxed and elegant. It’s clear that both chefs bring a level of passion and expertise that transforms dining into something extraordinary. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an exceptional meal, this restaurant delivers an experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious. We left the evening full, satisfied, and already planning our next visit. Highly recommended!"
