Having dipped its toes in Miami waters during Swim Week earlier this month, Lima-based Italian restaurant Pasta is opening its doors for good this summer. This summer’s bikini-body diet might have to be momentarily paused, and for good reason.
The modern Italian eatery by renowned Peruvian chefs and husband-and-wife duo Juan Manuel Umbert and Janice Buraschi will offer a pasta-centric menu, highlighted by savory dishes like Pappardelle with 12-Hour Braised Beef Cheek Ragú and Fettucine with Housemade ‘Nduja—made fresh from the window nook each morning.
The 2,400-square-foot Wynwood location is Umbert and Buraschi’s first stateside outpost, marrying their innovative take on Italian cuisine with their individually rich culinary journeys. What began as a tiny pasta restaurant with a big following in Lima, Peru, has evolved into what the duo believes to be “an incredible and natural opportunity for growth” in the culturally dynamic city of Miami.
Inside, an open kitchen with limited counter seating awaits, accentuated by a mix of rustic, modern and minimalistic design elements combining brick, wood and metal. A select few guests are invited to join in on the action at the counter, where the culinary team conceives its 12 versions of homemade pasta offerings with mouthwatering desserts to match. Insert: a Sicilian-inspired Pistachio di Bronte Tart and a Coffee Crema Volteada, Peru’s version of a traditional flan.
It might come as a shock to some, but pasta isn’t the only thing on the menu. The Razor Clams with Salsa Verde and House-made ‘Nduja starter is inspired by the seaside elements that embody Miami, while the Veal Sweetbread with Peruvian potatoes and Aceto di Modena and House-made Stracciatella with Sourdough Bread underscore Pasta’s original claim to fame in Lima.
The culinary program is paired with a full bar and curated list of classic Italian wines and cocktails, with a variety of Negronis and Spritzes taking over the menu in the spirit of summer. And in light of the summer opening, Pasta plans to participate in Miami Spice starting Aug. 1, meaning its acclaimed dishes will be available at discounted prices for locals and out-of-towners to enjoy.