Shireen's Favorite Things

Oltremare, 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036

Oltremare Ristorante inside Amara Cay Resort is my last food blog of the year and man, what a way to go out. The Italian eatery has a warm atmosphere with a sophisticated flair, but it’s the food that’s truly fabulous. What’s more, it’s made with passion and pure love by Executive Chef Dario Olivera.

After shooting my “Dress to Impress” New Year’s Eve fashion blog with “Hot Miami Styles” at the resort, I was hungry and thirsty! That’s not always a good thing when I do Spotlight. I always tell my crew: “It’s about tasting not eating,” but not to worry because on Chef Dario’s watch NO ONE leaves hungry.

I started my evening with three yummy drinks, “The Blood-Lime” which is their signature cocktail, was definitely my favorite (made with deep eddy ruby red, fever tree elderflower tonic, Campari and key lime.) The “Zugroni” & “Naughty and Spice” were both sweet enough to put me in a jolly holiday mood.

My first appetizer, “Sea Salt Roasted Beets” (made with greek yogurt, honey cured pistachio and blood orange syrup) was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The “Grilled Octopus,” plated in a yummy winter squash puree came with a side of crispy chips; adding extra texture. My favorite app (and it was hard to choose) was the gorgeous Antipasto plate. Hmmm… I’m a sucker for finger food.

The main courses were to die for, usually I take a bite, pass the plate and remain noncommittal, but I wouldn’t let our server take ANY of the dishes away. 😁 The “Lasagnette” (made with wild mushrooms) was dreamy and the “Gnocchi” with rabbit was extra sumptuous.

My absolute favorites: the “Orecchiette” (scallops, rock shrimp in a parmesan tomato broth) and “Caramelle” (with duck confit, Swiss chard, cranberries and reggiano). My tastebuds are forever spoiled. The chef wanted us to have more than carbs, so, he sent out one of his favorite plates “Grilled Cobia” (made with melted leeks). This is perfect for the non-pasta lover.

The “Tiramisu” and “Zeppoli” (deep-fried dough balls served with a Nutella dip) were beyond decadent and the perfect sweet treats to end our feast. The friendly staff, chic atmosphere and incredible pasta definitely make “Oltremare” one of my new favorite things.

Oltremare is located inside the Amara Cay Resort. The entire property is gorgeous and snuggled into a little slice of heaven in The Florida Keys. More specifically, Islamorada.

Dinner 5pm-10pm. Reservations are suggested: 305-664-0073

www.amaracayresort.com/oltremare-ristorante
Instagram: @Oltremare_Ristorante