While Sunset Harbour’s pizza scene has been defined by Brooklyn sensation Lucali for some time, newcomer Casa Bufala is looking to challenge the status quo with the introduction of its own gourmet wood-fired pizza and much more (think pappardelle, bruschette tartufo, veal milanese and all of nonna’s favorites). The sister restaurant to Fratelli La Bufala, Casa Bufala draws from the longtime Miami Beach original’s Neapolitan flair and turns it up a notch with the addition of a handcrafted 14-seat cocktail bar to its 100-seat space. As always, buffalo mozzarella and colorful Italian artwork remain at the heart of its charm.

“At Casa Bufala, we aim to create memorable experiences for every guest with a warm, easygoing atmosphere and the highest-quality ingredients imported daily from Italy,” said renowned Italian restaurateur and owner Luca D’Angelo. "Our ambiance and carefully curated menu was designed to whisk guests away on a trip to their favorite nonna’s house.”

D’Angelo launched the first Fratelli La Bufala concept in Italy in 2002, centered around a trio of Campanian products, namely buffalo mozzarella, buffalo meat and Neapolitan pizza. Fratelli La Bufala arrived at Miami Beach a few years later in 2005, remaining a staple for comforting Italian with ingredients sourced directly from the homeland. Simply put, Fratelli la Bufala is South of Fifth’s take on a wholesome red sauce joint.

Casa Bufala is welcomed as the neighborhood trattoria in the closely-knit community of Sunset Harbour, enticing guests with honey-toned woods, plush banquettes and hand-painted art designed by Neapolitan artist Antonio Montariello. And the pizza selection, of course, which includes porcini mushrooms and sausage, smoked mozzarella complete with ricotta, sweet salami and artichoke, a meat-filled meatball and bacon rendition and a Casa Bufala signature Bolognese pie.

Happy hour at the bar embodies the aperitivo spirit of Italy. Swing atop one of the retro-classic bar stools and choose from their signature Aperol Spritz, Martini, Margarita, Negroni or the Amalfi Breeze, a Bombay sapphire gin and Luxardo Maraschino liqueur infusion.