Shireen's Favorite Things

La Moderna Miami, 1874 Bay Road, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

With a warm infectious atmosphere, sophisticated modern stylings and true Italian cuisine, “La Moderna Miami” is definitely one of my new favorite things. What’s more, it’s one of the few places I’ve been (as of late) that made me feel incredibly welcome and as if I were the most important person in the room.

As soon as I sat down, I was treated to a much-appreciated plate of (gratis) Focaccia and bubbly, but it paled in comparison to the three amazing drinks I sipped on (that touched even the most hardened film critics heart)…

The “Thelma & Louis” (made with opposing tastes including hibiscus infused aperol, extra dry rum, fresh strawberries, coconut soda water and prosecco) was my absolute fave: decadent, fresh and fruity. “Harry & Sally” (with tequila, pimento dram, lime, ancho reyes, agave nectar and egg white) was light, easy and definitely made me want to “have what she’s having!” At least, until the lustful “Kama e Sutra” arrived (made with templeton rye, lime juice, eucalyptus pear syrup, ginger beer and bitters.) Mmmm…yummy and sexy.

I dined on two appetizers: “Fiori Di Zucca” (tempura fried zucchini blossoms filled with goat cheese and three sauces) and “Gran Fritto de Mare” (fried calamari, shrimp, carrots and zucchini.) Both plates were fried to perfection, which means just the right amount of heat without taking out the flavor. The main course, “Sea Bass Al Cartoccio” (baked chilean sea bass, capers, olives and mini veggies) was magnificent.

For dessert, “Millefoglie” (puff pastry served with Chantilly cream and fresh fruit) was light and subtle. Complimentary grappa and/or limoncello ended the night just right.

The spirit of the service (which was amazing,) great atmosphere and delicious food makes “La Moderna Miami” one of my favorite things, not to mention the fact that it’s all things straight from Rome! What’s not to “amare?”

The restaurant is located in what I call the “sleepy” part of South Beach (the North West corner.) It’s an area that has beach flair without all the craziness of Lincoln Road or Collins Avenue. Tourism is great, but sometimes a girl just wants to feel special in her own city without all the out-of-town fuss. Parking is easy with several garages in the hood and in true Italian style, they have a plethora of scooter spaces. It’s the perfect place to bring a vespa. Saluti!

Monday-Thursday 11:30am-1:00am, Friday-Saturday 11:30am-2:00am & Sunday 11:30am-12:00am

www.lamoderna-miami.com
Twitter, Instagram & FB: @LaModernaMiami