The Early Word on Dolce Italian

Opened just last month, the creation of Scarpetta's partners, John Meadow and Curt Huegel, Dolce Italian at the recently opened Gale South Beach Hotel, is picking up speed. Chef Paolo Dorigato brings reasonably priced Italian eats to the beach for breakfast, lunch and dinner to a 6,000 square foot area with indoor and outdoor seating. Word of the South Beach newcomer is still spreading, but here's a roundup of what people have to say about Dolce Italian so far:

The Great News: One yelper was very impressed with the "top notch" service at the restaurant saying, "this restaurant is just what South Beach needs". Her favorite meal on the menu was the Pesto Pasta about which she says, "WOW. The Flavor was spot on". She also commends the bread that just melted in her hands from how "warm and fresh" it was and thought it was overall "an excellent meal". "This was perfect". [Yelp]

Disappointing News: One reviewer on Yelp had a disappointing experience. Apparently after calling and making reservations, her and her party still had to wait to be seated. Ten minutes later at the bar, where the bartender "never even acknowledged" her, they were seated, noting most of the tables were open. She says the "food was mediocre at best". [Yelp]

Good News: On OpenTable, one person said "the pizza was terrific", "dinner was great" and that after going back again he still loved it. He says, "I recommend it all the way". Another reviewer says the place is "amazing" and has a "sexy vibe". And someone else mentions it is one of their "favorite places". [OpenTable]

Debbie Downer News: Another OpenTable reviewer says the place just isn't worth going to and that there is "nothing special" she can say about the restaurant. She also says "the wine list was expensive for the place". [OpenTable]

Good News: Also over on Yelp, another reviewer describes the service as "top-notch", saying the dishes were "well-balanced, fresh and flavorful". She was also very pleased with the head chef who brought out extra dishes for her to try. And another Yelper notes "good is good, I will return". [Yelp]