Escopazzo : Miami's Organic Italian Gem

With so many great Mexican and seafood restaurants in Miami, it might take a bit more searching to find an Italian restaurant that matches up to those. Don't worry, though: Escopazzo is just the spot for you. This establishment has since expanded since its opening in 1993 from only one dining room for 35 guests to over 90 people in two dining rooms. One major draw is the "climate control wine cellar" with a selection of over 400 wines that has become immensely popular for the private dining area. Escopazzo has truly epitomized the idea of capturing authentic Italian culture, a place where people feel like they are wining and dining in a Tuscan courtyard, and not in the hot spot of Miami. 

While the ambiance of the restaurant is truly unique, Escopazzo's menu serves simple and genuine Italian dishes. Made with the day's freshest ingredients, some favorite dishes include smoked duck breast with fig confiture and bruschetta, spaghetti with pacific sea urchin, chine and lemon, and the slow roasted lab shoulder with caramelized seasonal vegetables. However, if you can't seem to decide on one dish, Escopazzo offers taste menus with three, five and seven courses.

Despite Escopazzo treating all their diners as stars due to their exceptionally friendly service, it is a great spot to catch celebrities. Janet Jackson, Harrison Food, Aerosmith and Mario Batali are just a handful of the famous people who have enjoyed Escopazzo's food, as well as Zagat listing them as one of the nation's top Italian restaurants, and rated highly in Frommer's Guide of Miami. Nonetheless, Escopazzo provides diner with a unique yet honest and completely memorable Italian culinary experience.