Mozzarella Fella serves classic fare with its fresh namesake cheese.

The Place

Mozzarella Fella, 1668 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 366-7600, mozzarellafella.com. In less than a year in business, Mozzarella Fella, on Main Street east of Orange Avenue, has earned a hearty following with friendly counter service, a sunny space and, of course, creamy fresh mozz.

The People

A favorite low-key lunch spot for big-time downtown wheelers and dealers as well as laid-back New York neighborhood types looking for a taste of home.

Time Factor

Easy enough to be in and out in 20 minutes, especially if you grab your sandwich to go. Only a handful of tables and chairs for dining in, but the friendly, casual environment—like the food—is fun for savoring.

The Food

A varied and predominantly sandwich-based menu of all the classics—think chicken, veal, meatball or eggplant parm, calamari and tons more—much of it featuring, of course, the namesake cheese, which is made on-site and often before your very eyes. There’s also a smaller selection of salads, pasta dishes and take-home-by-the-pint soups, antipasto and other specialties (like “Sunday sauce”), depending on the day. Keep an eye out for the daily specials, which can range from a soppressata (Italian cured dry salami) and artichoke heart sandwich to linguine carbonara.