Siena Tavern, 404 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
At night, it’s dimly lit and bolsters a hipster vibe. I was hypnotized by the drop chandelier in the foyer of the restaurant and the long, voluptuous couch that whispers: “Sit here, you know you want to.”
On my new, long, cushy love (the aforementioned couch,) I sipped on three interesting specialty drinks. First-up, the refreshingly sweet “No. 3,” made with honey, lavender and lemon. The “No. 9” (made with white tequila, sage, cucumber and lime,) was bold and completely unusual. Last but not least, the No. “11,” with basil, lemon, sage and watermelon, was the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
I started my dinner with the “Coccoli;” (which is basically crispy dough bread, stracchino cheese and prosciutto.) It was all kinds of heavenly salty, gooey yumminess. Next up, something light and clean, the “Torched Salmon” (with salsa verde, cherry tomatoes and crispy leeks.) It was a small portion; I could have indulged in another one. It was by far my favorite.
For my main course, Siena Tavern pulled out all the stops with its baked lasagna. The almost pot-pie looking creation (filled with ricotta meat ragu and parmesan cheese) was decadent and delicious. Even though I was full, my good friend and Spotlight producer, Jessie Rosario, insisted I try the restaurant’s famous meatballs and believe you me, they didn’t disappoint. With succulent, roasted tomato sauce, bellweather ricotta and shaved basil, I was one happy camper.
Siena Tavern is on South Beach right off of Washington and Fifth Street. It’s a busy intersection, but there’s valet in the front of the restaurant and a parking garage on Fourth Street (although, the self-parking cost more.) Your best bet (especially on the weekend ) is to Uber or cab it.
Monday-Friday 6 pm-close, Saturday-Sunday 11 am-close, Weekend Brunch on Saturday & Sunday 11 am-4 pm, Happy Hour is daily from 6-8 pm.
Website: www.sienatavern.com
Twitter: @SienaMiami
IG: @SienaMiami
FB: Siena Tavern Italian Restaurant American Restaurant Wine Bar
Reservations: 305-534-5577
Dress: Serendipity Consignment Boutique
Shoes: Elie Tahari
Purse: Bagghy, Miami
Jewelry: (my own)
Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Writer: Shireen Sandoval