DAVENPORT, Fla. – A fresh aroma of garlic and herb-grilled specialties is wafting through Davenport this week, but the neighborhood’s newest Italian eatery is serving up more than just pasta. Today, February 3, 2026, the Carrabba’s Italian Grill at 1005 Heritage Pass officially opens its doors with an exclusive grand opening event designed to give back to some of Florida’s most resilient children.
Running from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the evening offers locals a first look at the restaurant while raising critical funds for the Sunshine Foundation, a nonprofit that has been answering the calls of families in need for half a century.
Attendees at the ribbon-cutting celebration will find a series of tasting stations scattered throughout the dining room, providing a preview of the brand’s classic wood-fired flavors. The timing of the opening also allows for a “sneak peek” at upcoming Valentine’s Day features, including signature cocktails and seasonal dishes curated specifically for the holiday.
While the food is a major draw, the partnership with the Sunshine Foundation remains the heart of the night. The foundation specializes in granting dreams for children living with profound, lifelong chronic conditions—ranging from spina bifida and cerebral palsy to severe autism and epilepsy—ensuring that those who might not qualify under terminal-illness-only charities still get their moment in the sun.
The connection between Davenport and the Sunshine Foundation is deeply rooted. The organization’s Dream Village, located right here in Central Florida, features fairy-tale-themed cottages that house families visiting local theme parks.
This mission started back in 1976 when founder Bill Sample took out a personal loan to send a young boy with leukemia to see the snow for the first time.
That single act of kindness has since snowballed into a national movement that has touched the lives of over 44,000 children.
By teaming up with Carrabba’s for this launch, the foundation continues its streak as one of the highest-rated charities in the country, maintaining a 100% rating on Charity Navigator. For those looking to enjoy a meal that truly matters, the Davenport community is proving that there is plenty of room at the table for hope.
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