Soya & Pomodoro

This family-owned Downtown trattoria has been doling out fresh pastas in homemade sauces to a fiercely loyal set of regulars since 2004. That’s a blink compared to the building itself, a circa-1924 Beaux-Arts treasure called Shoreland Arcade, that once served as a lively shopping destination during Miami’s first real estate boom. 

The vibe: Owner Cristian D’Oria set out to channel the history and character of his native Italy when he chose Shoreland Arcade for Soya’s home, and with its grand arches painted with cherubs and floral motifs and a balmy breeze wafting through the open doors, he’s succeeded. Grab a seat on the sidewalk or in the alley-esque interior, which is decorated with a hodgepodge of Italian knick-knacks, art, and Miami memorabilia. 

The Food: Prices are friendly, and portions are reasonable—a rarity among Miami’s latest barrage of flashy Italian restaurants. The homemade linguini mingles clams and bottarga with bursts of cherry tomato in each bite. The fiocchetti stuffed with taleggio and pear is a highlight, layered in a delicate ricotta and shrimp sauce. Don’t skip the fresh hazelnut and pistachio gelato, which can be ordered affogato-style with a shot of espresso.

The drink: Enjoy lazy people-watching with healthy wine pours and the feeling that you and your date have abandoned Miami altogether. Of course, meals end traditionally with complimentary shots of limoncello.

Time Out tip: Soya & Pomodoro hosts live music, usually jazz, every Thursday and Saturday from 7:30 to 10pm and Fridays twice a month from 7:30 to 10pm.