Did You Eat? – Lido 73

In an Italian family, “Did you eat?” is synonymous with “Hello.”
But it’s not just a greeting—it’s an invitation. A check-in. A declaration of love. It’s the belly-filling, heart-filling atmosphere Tony grew up in. In his home, the question was often rhetorical—his Mama Maria was always stirring sauce, stewing peppers, or plating up something delicious. In her world, no one went unfed.

Traditionally, breakfast in Italian culture is simple—espresso and maybe a biscotto. But Tony’s American father, stationed in Italy, loved a hearty breakfast. Maria adapted, crafting American classics with an Italian twist. Think fresh mozzarella melted into eggs and bruschetta topped with savory goodness.

“My mom is always in the kitchen. It’s her happy place, and a lot of happy memories stem from there.”

The Birth of Lido 73

Tony and his wife, Isis, made it their mission to recreate that feeling for others. Through the Italian Food Company, they’ve opened four restaurants in the Keys, with Lido 73 as their crown jewel—a stunning, waterfront spot on Tavernier’s canal where boats glide in, manatees drift by, and music floats through the air.

“Lido 73 is a perfect blend of the Keys and Italy, both in atmosphere and food,” Tony shares.

Lido 73 launched with a lunch and dinner menu mixing Italian tradition with American favorites—smash burgers, Calabrian Bang Bang Shrimp, homemade meatballs, and Neapolitan-style pizza.

A Community-Inspired Breakfast Revival

When a beloved local breakfast spot closed, the community turned to Tony.

“It was never the plan,” he laughs. “But people kept telling us how much they missed a real breakfast spot.”

So Lido 73 answered the call. Now, they serve breakfast 7 days a week starting at 7:30 am, with fresh espresso in the air and a menu that blends Italian roots and American cravings. From steak and eggs with toasted bruschetta to breakfast sandwiches made with fresh focaccia and mozzarella, the food is personal and made with patience.

“There’s something about breakfast that feels more personal,” says Isis. “It’s the start of your day, and we want people to start it with the love and quality that Italian cooking is known for.”

A Mission Beyond the Menu

Lido 73 doesn’t just feed people—it honors them. Inspired by Tony’s father, a Vietnam veteran who served 32 years, the restaurant offers discounts to military members and first responders. They’ve even hosted commemorative events for veterans, proudly partnering with the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Where Food & Family Come Together

From sunrise to sunset, Lido 73 lives out the Italian truth that food and family are inseparable.

So, next time someone asks, “Did you eat?”—you’ll know what to do.

Come by boat, by car, or by foot—and let Lido 73 feed you.

📍 Visit: Lido73.com
📸 Follow: @theitalianfoodcompany

Written by Jerrica Mah — writer, Army wife, and freelance book editor who loves to travel vicariously through stories.