You love to see it. Fortunato’s used to be a go-to spot for me, and many others I Imagine, while wandering Central Avenue on any given weekend night (but especially First Friday). I came to love it as an Eckerd student, so I was never too surprised to see a line out the door for a thick Fortunat’s slice.

In early November, the pizza joint reemerged in Gulfport, an area with a burgeoning food scene. Seriously, if you haven’t had Smokin’ J’s, go to Smokin’ J’s. The pickles, the pulled pork, THE RIBS. One Thanksgiving I got a smoked turkey from this BBQ joint and I still think about it to this day.

Sicilian style pizza in Gulfport

But I digress, we’re here to talk pizza. Fortunato’s is now open at 3038 Beach Boulevard South. It’s been open for a little over a month at this point.

Guests can enjoy quaint outdoor and patio seating as the work to form the perfect pizza fold.

Fortunato’s Gulfport menu has featured specials such as a bacon jalapeño flatbread, a salmon cake appetizer, and prosciutto wrapped pork loin.

Open for lunch and dinner

The restaurant’s current hours are:

Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday
Dinner 4pm-10pm Tuesday-Sunday

Fortunato’s menu is loaded with hand tossed and Sicilians pizzas. All diners should try the Chicken Milanese Signature Sandwich at least once. The hearty lunch option features arugula, fresh mozzarella, red onion, pesto and mayo.

New openings in Gulfport

This opening follows similar resurgences in the Gulfport culinary community. A Friend Who Bakes is delivering something tasty to residents who have a serious sweet tooth.

Stella’s, a popular breakfast spot, recently opened in a new expanded space, too.