The Great Escape: Bloomingdale Pizza

Almost five years ago, Al Carapella, owner of , opened up shop in Valrico, offering locals a taste of authentic New York-style pizza and other Italian staples.

Now, Bloomingdale Pizza not only continues to offer a wide selection of freshly made menu items, but it is also are an active member in the community, sponsoring many local schools and the Little Leagues of South Brandon and Bloomingdale.

Available for dine-in, carry-out and delivery, folks can indulge in homemade Italian recipes straight from Brooklyn, NY, where Carapella grew up, including pizza, lasagna, eggplant parmesan, chicken wings, Philly cheese steaks subs and salads. A full Italian menu is available, as well as a catering menu for special events.

“We continue to serve the freshest ingredients while keeping our prices low in these hard economic times,” Carapella said.

Family owned and operated, Bloomingdale Pizza offers a friendly environment with a game room for the kids. Adults can indulge in beer and wine while watching their favorite sports teams play on one of the several televisions inside the restaurant. There is something for everyone.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month, Bloomingdale Pizza also hosts a car show in its parking lot.

“We give trophy prizes to first place, second place and people’s choice,” said manager Laura Herres.

Staying active in the community is very important to the folks at Bloomingdale Pizza.

“We sponsor local sports teams," Herres said. "We also host spirit nights at the restaurant and then donate a portion of the proceeds to schools or Scout troops." Educational field trips with local schools, daycares and home-schooled kids are also offered at Bloomingdale Pizza.

Located at 4334 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico, the restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m Friday and Saturday. Call 813-684-7466 for more information.