Downtown Wellen just got a whole lot shinier — and it’s thanks to The Banyan House, which swept the Best of North Port Awards with five first-place wins and five runner-up finishes. From romantic date nights to handcrafted cocktails, they’re officially among the best in Wellen Park— but if you’ve been, you already knew that.
The accolades speak for themselves:
- Best Fine Dining
- Best Romantic Dinner
- Best Martini
- Best Cocktails
- Best Specialty Wine List
This isn’t just a one-off success — it’s part of a much bigger story. Behind The Banyan House is a powerhouse local team: David and Dennis Valentino and longtime partner Mark Costanzo, who together run D&D Restaurants. Their group also owns and operates other Downtown Wellen favorites:
- Acqua Pazza — a breezy coastal-Italian spot
- Bocca Lupo — beloved for its coal-fired pizza and casual energy
If you’ve had a standout meal in Wellen Park, chances are these guys had something to do with it.
With decades of restaurant experience between them and deep Florida roots, the Valentino brothers and Costanzo are building more than just restaurants — they’re crafting experiences. The Banyan House, their most recent and most celebrated concept, sits proudly along Grand Lake and has become the spot for sunset martinis, celebratory dinners, and weekend brunches with a view.
And right next door? Solis Hall, Downtown Wellen’s signature event venue, was named runner-up for Best Venue, rounding out a night of serious recognition for the team behind the Wellen Park dining scene.
A win for the whole community
These awards are voted on by locals — which makes them even sweeter. They reflect the real love and loyalty from the people who live, work, and play right here in Wellen Park. Whether you’re grabbing pizza at Bocca Lupo, dining al fresco at Acqua Pazza, celebrating something special at Prime, or sipping your way through the Banyan House cocktail list, you’re part of what makes this all work.
So let’s raise a glass (preferably a martini — stirred, never shaken) to the teams behind these incredible spots. The service is warm, the food is bold, and the experience? Totally Downtown Wellen.
Pro tip: Reservations at The Banyan House are a good idea — you can make one here. Or take a stroll through Downtown Wellen Park and try them all — no dress code required, just a good appetite and good company.
