Walking in to Hot Tomatoe Neighborhood Bistro in Deerfield Beach, customers can smell the homemade sauces simmering in the kitchen. Owner and executive chef, Elsa Addario, has brought her family’s recipes straight from Italy to share with her patrons. Hot Tomatoe offers centuries-old traditional Italian cooking with a personal flair. All food is made to order, and Addario makes sure that each dish is filled with perfect flavors. The house-made mozzarella is delicious and is not only one of the featured appetizers – the house-made Mozzarella Caprese ($10) – but is also included in many of the menu’s main entrees. The Chicken Parmesan ($17) is one of the best South Florida has to offer and Addario said, “We use our mozzarella on it as well, and it makes a difference.”

From life in the corporate world that she “didn’t like,” Addario decided to change her career to one of pure passion. “I always liked to cook,” she said, and she “thought it would be fun” to open her own restaurant. From the simple, yet elegant décor, to the wide range of menu items, Hot Tomatoe offers visitors a meal they remember.

The environment resembles a dining room one may have in his or her own home, and makes customers instantly comfortable. Addario appreciates the fact that “most customers have followed” her from the restaurant’s previous, smaller location in Pompano Beach. And, they have remained loyal fans of her hospitality and cooking. So far the response has “been excellent,” Addario said. Many of her customers are personally greeted when arriving, and receive goodbyes from Addario and her wait-staff on a firstname basis. This level of hospitality and personal attention is difficult to find in a dining experience. The restaurant’s new, larger space is “easier to work in,” said Addario.

From the pastas that average around $15, to the fresh fish and meat entrees that are priced moderately around $17, the menu has something for everyone when it comes to Italian food. The side Caesar Salad, which with an entrée is $4, is large enough for two to share. The dressing is light, but filled with flavors. All entrees are served with a house salad and a side dish of pasta.

By blending family recipes, culture and talent, Addario has created a great spot for dining in Deerfield. On any night of the week, locals and visitors are found enjoying her homemade meals. They are also available for private parties and catering. Hot Tomatoe is located at 626 South Federal Hwy., in Deerfield Beach and is open during the summer Tuesday–Saturday from 5:00–10 p.m., and Fri and Saturday nights from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Please visit www.hottomatoe.com or call 954-785-5058 for more information, or to make a reservation.

Lisa Cohen