We were visiting Gainesville and were recommended to this restaurant. I could tell instantly that this was run by people who care. The owner was eating outside at a table near the front door and in the middle of his meal, reached over to open and hold the door for our party of six. This is a very small restaurant... More

Relatively small Italian restaurant in the center of Gainesville with only about a dozen tables. Book well ahead; particularly for times like UF graduation weeks. Ambience just right inside - surprising as you walk past the closed store fronts nearby in as yet to be revitalized old downtown. Warm and inviting with pleasant and friendly staff. Food choices more than... More

The pasta was fresh, service was very good and the atmosphere relaxing. Nice wine selection. Great spot for a relaxing Italian evening.

The service was excellent. The atmosphere was nice. The food was average. Everything we ordered was a little bland and not worth the amount it cost. But part of going out is paying for the service and atmosphere. The restaurant is small and quaint and a nice place for dinner if you want to be able to talk to and... More

I have to admit, first walking into the restaurant I wasn't super impressed by how the place was presented. This was my first time visiting Manuel's and at first glance I really reconsidered my choice. First impressions are everything and the pile up of empty wine boxes and make shift printer/ fax machine stand below the kitchen counter really threw... More

Wonderful, wonderful dinner on a Friday night. Excellent risotto cakes. Great swordfish special. Lobster ravioli was to die for. We asked to split salads and were accommodated with no problem. Great wine selection by the glass, half bottle or bottle. Wide price ranges for wine. If you have not given this place a try you need to. Make sure you... More

I had a fantastic birthday dinner at Manuel's this weekend. The staff accommodated our rather large party of 10 despite only having space for 36 diners. They provided great recommendations to everyone, and we literally ordered 1/3rd of the menu. There were no complaints, only rave reviews. I will definitely be coming back. We had the risotto cakes, grilled vegetable... More

The food and service was good BUT look over your bill carefully. Our bill had $20 wrongly added to the VISA total and, when asked about it, the server's unapologetic and rehearsed-sounding response made it pretty clear this was not "a mistake". It was early evening and not busy. (In fact, we were the only diners there.)

Stayed the night in Gainesville and found Manuel's on Tripadvisor. Food was amazing. My husband had a veal dish and I had the penne with mushrooms - both were amazing. Also had the spicy red clam soup which we both agreed had to be the BEST soup we have ever eaten. Bread is also amazing. Restaurant is quite small so... More