Jack's Miami (CLOSED)

If you’re not fortunate enough to have an Italian grandmother who can cook, consider chef and Jack’s coowner JP Parlavechio your surrogate Nonna. He’s every bit as talented in the kitchen and won’t nudge you about when you’re getting married or having kids. Plus, dining at Jack’s feels like you’re sitting down for a meal at someone’s house (the structure was, at one point, a private residence) that’s been decorated with myriad portraits of actual people named Jack—Nicholson, Kennedy, Lemmon. Once inside the inviting trattoria, it’s time to relax (and maybe undo the top button of your pants) and prepare to mangiare on dishes doused in thick, flavorful red sauce. From the rolled eggplant appetizer and the meatballs with ricotta to the lasagna, you’ll have your pick of saucy options on the menu—all seasoned differently to preserve each dish’s unique flavor. If red sauce isn’t your thing, Jack’s extensive menu also features a smattering of meat and fish entrées, plus a daily special.