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Café Prima Pasta
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 5 pm - 12 am
Sun 4:30 pm - 11:30 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
About This Business:
Pizza is our Passion We start with hand-crafted dough mixed with extra-virgin olive oil... Vocelli signature pizza sauce has been handed down from a… read more »
72 reviews for Café Prima Pasta
Review Highlights
"...Seafood Linguine with the creamy lobster sauce and it was..."
(in 3 reviews)
"The staff is very friendly and they've all been there for..."
(in 4 reviews)
"The service was great, the food was great also."
(in 7 reviews)
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72 reviews in English
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Review from Ethan T.
Miami-Dade, FL
11/21/2011
One person or another has been telling me that I have to go here for years. A couple weeks ago I finally did with three other friends for a celebration. I do not think we could have found a better place.
There is a small parking lot with several open spaces attached to the restaurant, so parking was simple. The lot is well lighted and paved and I felt safe leaving it behind.
Walking in the front door, the is a classy bar straight and to the right, with tables to the left in a dinning area. There are also tables outside. Our group met at the bar, and had a couple rounds. Though we all stayed with our standard drinks, we left it to the bartender to try different types of gin, whiskey, vodka, to make our drinks, and his choices were spot on. We were all exceptionally happy by the time we were seated.
As for being seated, we had a reservation for 8, arrived at the bar at seven, and we were seated right on time. They had even offered to seat us early if we wanted. The tables are close together, but just far enough apart to keep conversations from spilling over to other tables, unless someone is shouting.
Though the restaurant was busy The staff never rushed us. We ordered multiple appetizers, all of which we incredible. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality do the calamari and recommend that as a must have. Our dinner orders covered the gambit. I know that we all ordered from the daily specials, so seafood, steak, and pasta, which we shared. I still need to return to try the ravioli that looked so good on the menu.
We stayed for coffee after the meal, rested, kept the conversation going for a bit and then paid the bill. The place was not inexpensive, nor did it break the bank. It was in fact the right price. The number seemed perfect for the amount of food a drink we enjoyed.
I can not wait to return, and highly recommend this place be add to any person's must eat at list in Miami. -
Review from David W.
Jersey City, NJ
1/13/2012
If you love chauvinstic South Beach Douchebaggery, you're gonna love this place. Seriously. It will be your favorite place ever.
If I was judging food alone, based on price, I'd be hard pressed not to give the place 4.5 stars. It really is solid. I had the Fett/Alfredo, and the lady had the Gluten-free pasta with tomatoes, spinach. Had the Zucchini Fritti as well, which gets soggy as it sits, but is still good.
All that aside, the service. Typical. Tell me "maybe 20 minutes" and then I'm sitting outside for 45 minutes. When I come inside to see "what's up?" I notice on the list a couple of 2-tops below me have been seated. I saw them come in, and since I noticed there was only one 2 in front of me in the first place, was surprised when they didn't come out. Without question these are patrons of the restaurant, or people who do the "20 dollar handshake." It's definitely that type of place.
Before we finish our wine and our appetizer, the bussers and the waiter have removed both things from the table. Yes, just a sip left on both wines, but how do you take a wine glass with wine it? Typical South Beach service, doing their best to get you to buy another faster.
There's no patience in there by the staff, and things are flying off and on the table.
So again, while I think the primary purpose of the restaurant is great food, their service is average at best. Which to them would be surprising since they seemingly pride themselves on the Italian/New York style of hugging and kissing everyone like it's a best friend coming home from war.
I'm Italian, and I get all that. I also get faux-ness and douchebaggery, which SOME people there have in spades. Not everyone.
Wouldn't keep me away from the place, but certainly makes me think twice. -
Review from Sara D.
Manhattan, NY
Walking into this restaurant we were amused by the wanna be NYC Little Italy decor. Nevertheless, it didn't deter us from having an open mind. Since the menu offered "the world's best carpaccio" naturally we had to try it. Not sure if it was the world's best, but it was realkt good and definitely worth ordering. We also had two daily specials and both were equally tasty and the lamb shank with fettaccini and porcini mushrooms and the linguine with jumbo shrimp stuffed with crab meat. Highly recommend ordering them if they're available!
Overall, service was friendly and gracious, food was good and reasonably priced, wine menu, though not extensive by any stretch, was definitely a good value.
Check out our photo set on http://SaraDISH.com -
Review from Vanessa J.
Miami, FL
2/3/2012
I cannot believe I never reviewed this place. Came here last year and immediately fell in love. The ambiance, the service and the food was excellent. Will be going again soon, and then I shall write a detailed review. Regardless, this place is a 10+.
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Review from Alissa A.
Miami, FL
1/30/2012
This place is cool. I go here every now and then but not as a first choice. The food is decent and so is the service. They are accommodating. I have been able to order things that are not on the menu.
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Review from Kayce D.
Miami Beach, FL
1/20/2012
I have been here many times over the years but my husband had not. We went on spur of the moment and had a great dinner. Bartender always remembers my face and the wine I like. host was great and fou d us a seat pronto since we were hungry. We had roasted red peppers with goat cheese. Great app for something lite. I had pasta special, it was great and my husband raved over his chicken parm. Waiter was fun and gave us some free aperitifs. Tiramesu was incredible.
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Review from Drew D.
Miami Beach, FL
12/29/2011
Not worth the money for a poor meal. This place is across the street from a gas station and many tables are next to a busy car filled street. If you want good Italian food at a nice restaurant, this place is not for you. It's pricey, but not tasty.
The free bread they bring is good, but cold. The spread for the bread is tasteless. I went with my brother and wife and we shared 3 entrees: shrimp scampi, penne pasta, and a chicken dish. The shrimp which was $23 was decent at best. The shrimp were not flavorful. The penne pasta was the best thing we had, pretty good overall, but small. The chicken dish was watery and not good. For an average price per person in the $4o range, I suggest you go somewhere good. -
Review from Brian B.
Miami Beach, FL
10/12/2011
Been wanting to try Prima Pasta for awhile since I live only 2 blocks away.
Beware of the so-called 50% off early special. It is NOT 50% off it is simply an early bird menu that looks nothing like the regular dinner menu. I had eggplant parm with "mixed veggies" for 11 bucks. I got 3 slices of eggplant and 5 pieces of steamed brocoli. Are you trying to tell me it is normally $22??? I checked their website and the closest thing was an eggplant appetizer for $12.95. I am pretty sure that is what I got for my 50% off special, ughhhh. They have asparagus side for $5. Again you mean to tell me it is normally 10 bucks for a side of veggies?? The food was good and the service great but I left feeling like I got scammed. -
Review from Steven Z.
BURLNGTN CITY, NJ
12/5/2011
Food was good but nothing special - typical Italian fare. Service was very good and the ambiance was nice being outside. Little heavy with the amount of sauce for my taste. Pasta was fresh which is a plus.
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Review from Tassia H.
11/7/2011
The first time I've ever been to prima pasta was my first date with my husband. When we started dating at a Saturday night around 11 pm we went there for dinner. The place is very low key and cozy. It's a very nica, and romantic atmosphere which we enjoyed a lot. The food was great ! I had the ravioli which tasted amazing, and the bruschetta. It's a nice place to go to dinner.
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Review from Ethan G.
Miami Beach, FL
11/13/2011
I've been coming here to Cafe Prima Pasta for years but unfortunately my dinner last night will be my last time I will go there again.
- We arrived for a table for two and was told there would be a 10 minute wait. Needless to say there were many tables available. It was the typical Miami Beach way of taking more money from you.
- We didn't see a waiter for 15 minutes
- Ordered the pasta with meatballs which were served undercooked
- Ordered the skirt steak which was VERY tough. The waiter said it came with mashed potatoe and vegetables. The mashed potatoe were powdered and the dish never came with vegetables.
My overall experience really SUCKED and its very sad that this place is going downhill. The waiters were rude and just plain miserable. The kitchen staff was very much off their game.Comment from Fabian C. of Café Prima Pasta 12/1/2011
Are you sure that you came to my Restaurant? let me know… More » -
Review from nicole s.
Miami Beach, FL
5/13/2011
I love cafe prima it's the best Italian restaurant on this side of Collins by far. I take all my friends here whenever they're in town and they absolutely love it. They have an amazing staff and if you should ever get the waiter named James you will truly love prima and come back again and again.
Things to get:
Bruschetta
Carpaccio
Caprese salad
Zucchini fritters
Spaghetti and meatballs
I had this amazing shrimp whole wheat pasta last night that was to die for!
Take advantage of the happy hour from 4pm-6pm -
Review from Mel R.
4/21/2011
We are coming to Miami for 15 years and Cafe Prima Pasta is the first italian restaurant where we do not have any complaints! Great Bruschetta, Great Carpaccio, Great Pasta and great desserts.
Why i do not vote 5 stars? I don`t know why we have to wait for a table late in the evening, when 4 tables are available and no one else is waiting for a table or standing in line? We were waiting 15 minutes to get a table which was already ready when we came in...
Everything else was perfect! We come again! -
Review from Tomas B.
3/27/2011
With so many places to choose from in Miami Beach why do you ask would you continue to go to place for close to 20 years? Well I've been coming here for as long as I have lived in South Florida 15 years and then some, and what you get is consistent good quality food, just the right amount of ambience, friendly and solid waiter staff and a rounded great experience each and every time you go there.
Casual atmosphere but upscale dining. Jazz lounge music plays in the background with outside dining seating, some curbside high top's that are first come first serve variety of nooks and crannies inside the restaurant with booths, mixed with round tables, long tables you name it. Photos on the walls of all the various guests, stars etc, the long wooden bar the never ending weekend wait for a table for so many years make you understand that this is not your ordinary neighborhood join.
With that said since I've never done a review on them, I thought I'd take a moment to give you last night's highlights. Four of us for dinner tonight and with a reservation we waited just about 10 minutes as we wanted to sit outside to enjoy the great weather and having a drink at the bar is never a problem for great people watching. After being seated light foccacia type bread and olive oil garlic pesto dip was presented along with our menus. Water glasses filled quickly and our waiter was on top of us for drink orders if needed. He presented the specials which Veal Osso Bucco was one, the others a fish and a pasta we passed on.
Two Appetizers were ordered to split for 4 persons. Shrimp & Scallops
With white wine, sliced garlic and basil & Parma & Bufala Fresh bufala mozzarella and prosciutto di Parma. The Shrimp & Scallops were large fresh and the sauce was just the right balance of garlic without being overpowering. A little lemon on the side kicked it up to the right blend and accent. Parma prosciutto is as always the best, but tonight there mozzarella was some of the best I've ever had. Normally anywhere ordered it can be bland or tasteless. Tonight it had a creamy almost sweet taste to it and the fresh ground pepper accent to it with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar (I Added not served with dish) made this a great little starter. Plenty to split for 4 persons. (Note forgot to ask whether mozzarella was made in house?
On to the entrees. 1 Veal Osso Bucco Special (SPECIAL $34.95) (Veal Shank Tender surrounded by yellow risotto in delicious brown sauce, My my was this a winner. Off the menu but long time special of Chef Arturo is the Veal Saltimbocca, tender veal covered with spinach, mozzarella with a salty brown sauce with side of Penne Pasta $19.95, 1 standard Chicken Parmigiana Topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella with side of Penne Pasta $18.95 abundant and tasty & Fresh and last but not least Black Linguine Seafood Pasta with Seafood with Pomodoro or creamy lobster sauce $18.95 which was if you enjoy this dish elsewhere is an absolute CANT LEAVE OFF THE ORDER LIST. All and all everything excellent.
Two desserts were shared a house made Tiramisu which was incredible and a homemade ricotta cheesecake which make me remember grandma's! Some espressos were enjoyed while Gerardo one of the owners sent over complimentary sambucca with our coffee. What can you say about great service, reasonably priced incredible quality food in a perfect ambiance in great weather in Miami in March. Only Now I remember why I've been coming here for so many years..... Solid across the board. I'd give it 5 stars but their wine list continues to be lacking in value and selection and at Yelp a 1/2 star isn't possible. Don't miss this one guys as good as it gets on a consistent basis.
PS: Happy hour many menu items 50% off before 6PM great value if your into an early dinner or perhaps late Sunday Afternoon! -
Review from Melissa P.
North Miami Beach, FL
4/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Ate dinner here last night for the first time and my only regret is that we didn't try it sooner. We took a friend from Boston, as we are all from Boston and have definitely experienced excellent Italian food and this was excellent Italian food. Everything was amazing, we have NO complaints and can't wait to go back again.
We went at 5pm for the 50% off but would pay the full price as everything was that delicious. It started with the hot mini rolls that come out with the olive oil with fresh parsley and garlic, we asked for more rolls and more dipping sauce. We also ordered the Carpaccio Di Manzo for an appetizer and it was to die for so tender, well flavored and delicious.
I ordered Tilapia Balsamico, my husband got the Linguini w/Clams and our friend got Chicken Parmigiana. I'm not usually one to order Tilapia out at a restaurant but with the Tomato & Artichoke, I'm glad I did. It was cooked perfectly with mixed veggies, I would definitely order again. My husband RAVED about the Linguini that was FILLED with Clams which I of course tasted and agreed it was great, he said it was the best he EVER had! My friend loves Chicken Parm and orders it at almost every Italian restaurant and also thought that it was the one of the best she's every had. I tasted that as well and have to agree that it had a great flavor!
We decided to order espresso and creme brulee, which is my husband's favorite dessert and it didn't disappoint, it was one of the best ones he ever had!
Beyond the food the service was great! They constantly clean the table, refilled our glasses and brought everything needed when needed. We couldn't ask for a better experience and can't wait to go back!!! -
Review from Lauren B.
Miami Beach, FL
10/10/2011
Best food on 71st!!! Best happy hour ever. Servers are friendly!!! Penne Vodka, HELLO!!!
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Review from Ben B.
Cedar Park, TX
5/20/2011
On our last night in Miami, my wife and I were looking for some place to have dinner that was close to the hotel, I came up with a short list of three places, each with a different theme and each was a result of my yelp search for seafood.
But Prima Pasta was the ONLY one with an iPhone app, as a techie and working for a company that makes mobile apps, we ended up at Prima Pasta, not just because of the app, but because they were the very closest.
We beat the late dinner rush. My wife had the lobster pasta special, which was basically an entire lobster in a creamy sauce with pasta, she LOVED it. I had a Mediterranean fish dish that was amazing, I totally didn't realize it was coming with pasta as well and was pleasantly surprised by this.
Almost forgot, we started with the Anitpasto appetizer, also amazing!
To close dinner out, we had tiramisu for dessert. The water talked us into partaking in our complimentary Sambuca, which came out with two tiny Biscotti and meringue cookies.
The meal was fantastic, the bread came with excellently seasoned olive oil, the dessert was great and the wait staff were very friendly and convincing, I thought twice before accepting the Sambuca, I am glad he convinced us. -
Review from Christine N.
Campbell, CA
1/16/2011
Based on the food, ambiance, and price, I would give this place 4 stars. We ordered some wine and prosciutto. I had the crab ravioli while my companions had the vodka penne and spaghetti with meatballs. They were delicious but not the best that I've ever had.
So what warrants the extra star? We had the friendliest waiter ever. He got us these crazy shots lit on fire with coffee beans in it. Then he kept refusing a tip from us. We gave it to him anyways. They also have 50% off dishes during happy hour, which I'm sure we'll now try. -
Review from Laura M.
Wethersfield, CT
3/25/2011
We have looked at the menu here a few times before but never stopped in until just the other day. Took advantage of the 50% off early bird special around 4pm. Glass of wine each, shared antipasti misto (nice selection of veggies, meats & cheese), salad each (prima/house & caprese), & split the puttanesca (no seafood).
Portions were right on & actually this may have inspired us to split pasta dishes more often in the future (think about it - how often does a delicious sauce actually reheat well as leftovers? and if you eat half the pasta as usual you'll have room for extra apps and/or dessert!! ive sold myself on this scheme, obv).
I'm not sure how others would rate the prices but I think the 4-6pm deals are definitely fair. I am in no way 'raving' about the quality of the food, only saying it was good enough and much friendlier on my wallet than the same meal wouldve cost elsewhere.
Oh! No idea if it was made in house or ordered out but they have a delicious ricotta cheese cake! Perfect end to the meal. -
Review from Michelle S.
Miami, FL
9/10/2011
Service was not great but they were apologetic and forewarned us about it, which I can appreciate, for this I give 4 stars. The food came quickly and was a decent portion with solid taste. However, I wasn't impressed with the food nor would I recommend coming here unless you're around the area. I would much rather visit Perricone's for overall quality, price and ambiance. I had the chicken Marsala which was good, but the side pasta was just ok, while the FI had the chicken Parma which I tried and didn't like too much (lacked in flavor). Would I come back? Sure but I wouldn't go out of my way for the visit!
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Review from Tomasz M.
This place has been once of my local favorite spots for about the past 13 years. It's been awhile since I've last visited this old friend, so it was only fitting I HIT IT every day during the last National Pasta Week which took place October 10 - 17th with $7.00 Pasta Deals.
Sunday - Fettuccine a la carbonara
Tuesday - Rigatoni al ragú di carne
Wednesday - Linguini al pesto
Thursday - Penne a la Norma
Friday - Rigatoni primavera
Saturday - Gnocchi a la Sorrentina
Sunday - Fettuccine with prosciutto, peas, and parmesan
A great little date spot in the North Beach area if you're not willing to take that special someone up to Bal Harbour Shops restaurants. Trust me,.. you don't walk that Mall after having 2 bottles of wine.
That is all. -
Review from Rob D.
8/16/2010
I find this place to be overpriced and BLAND. They do come around and offer Parmesan and black pepper but I shouldn't have to load up on the extras because my taste buds aren't being stimulated.
Funny enough, I grew up a block away from here so I've been to this place numerous times and in all my years of going here I've never been satisfied with their food. So why do I keep going back... it's usually because there's an event there with endless tapas and free drinks.
The other reason I seem to end up here is because the location is so charming people visiting always want to check it out. I will say that the environment is great. There's nothing I like more than being surrounded by black and white photography. Plus the lighting is just right to set the mood for a date or getty. And if you don't like the lighting you can always sit outside... on 71 and stare at the Chevron. : \
In general, food seems to be whipped up and served as soon as possible. Which I guess is good if you like your pasta al dente but longer is better for sauce!! During my most recent visit, a friend ordered sausage and peppers with mozzarella (which is a pretty easy task cuz I have been known to make this dish). Long story short her dish was served with half inch chucks of cheese that were lukewarm and no where near their melting point. My dish... tasted like Parmesan and black pepper. EPIC FAIL.
Bottomline: If not for the ambiance this place would be like TEXAS... the lone star.Listed in: They have PERONI
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Review from Joe L.
Miami, FL
6/13/2011
Good Italian Food.....50% off Menu 4-6pm even on Saturday's
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Review from lara s.
1/30/2010
Up front, I want to say that we didn't get to eat there, and this review is for the service we received on the phone.
We are running the 1/2 marathon tomorrow, and decided to check out Cafe Prima Pasta's early-bird special for 50% off between 5 and 6PM. Since their website says that any orders placed one second after 6PM are regular price, we decided to call up and make a reservation for 5. I never eat that early, but since the marathon requires us to be there around 5AM, I figured this would be a great time to check out the early-bird special and the restaurant.
I called up and asked if I could make a reservation for tomorrow evening. The man who answered said no, they weren't taking reservations. I said, "ok, well, are you usually busy when you first open?" He replied that yes, they are. I asked, "ok, so we shouldn't bother to come in?" And he hung up!!
Why would you hang up on a potential customer? That could have been handled much better. So, 1 star for customer service. I can't comment on their food.Comment from Fabian C. of Café Prima Pasta 3/14/2010
we are very sorry about that ,we wish you can come back to… More » -
Review from Rachel S.
Miami, FL
9/18/2009
We were driving around looking for a place to eat at 10pm. We saw this cute dimly lit outdoor dining patio - with people, and said let's check it out, after 2 strikes looking for other restaurants.
We were pleasantly surprised. Casual atmosphere but upscale dining. Jazz lounge music plays in the background and the food so far is good. One thing - didn't care for the sangria. Ordered another glass of wine and dumped the pitcher. Above average for the price and prompt friendly service from the staff.
Black linguine seafood is the ticket! Also the veal piccata. Yummy! -
Review from Charlie U.
Miami Beach, FL
12/19/2009
It is off the beaten path and that's O.K. You don't come for the glam crowd or too sexy vibe. You don't come to boast that you were there for dinner. You don't come to be seen.
You come for the reliable Italian food...good service...nice ambiance.
It is such a treat to come to Cafe Prima Pasta. So nice that I wonder why I don't go there more often.
Aside from so many tasty dishes and nice staff, the owners don't rest on their laurels. It seems they do some kind of major renovation every year. It is that kind of loving attention that you rarely seen in a business these days. -
Review from Hiram R.
Miami Beach, FL
1/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Always enjoy this place. Great food. New York Restaurant feel. Osso Bucco with rissotto is awesome!
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Review from Sue R.
Miami Beach, FL
3/31/2009
I happened to be at home for an afternoon during the week. Having read that Prima Pasta had a 50% off deal on weekdays between 5-6pm helped me make a decision as to where to eat. I was waiting outside with extreme anticipation at 5pm. As soon as the doors opened I was courteously welcomed and shown to an inside table, a corner, for two. Once inside I felt as though I was in a NY or NJ restaurant in the 70's or 80's. Signed photos of celebrities all over the walls. Real old style decor, service and ambiance. After about fifteen minutes the place was packed. And as the chatter and noise rose, so did the spirit within the place. That was just for starters and I already loved it.
My waiter was superb. I ordered a bottle of San Pellegrino and a glass of house Chianti, which came in moments, along with an olive oil, parsley and garlic concoction with warm rolls. That was a nice touch to start with.
I ordered scallops and shrimp in a creamy garlic sauce to start. It was almost like a soup except those were the only ingredients. I've never had that before and it was outstanding. Absolutely first class. A large portion crammed with scallops and large shrimp - if you had gotten that with a salad, it would have been enough for a meal with the bread, which was great dipped in the sauce.
Then I had Penne a la Vodka, which was a gigantic portion and I couldn't do justice to it all. It was very well executed, the sauce was pink and creamy with small tomatoey chunks and a great flavor. I had another glass of wine to wash that down, and then i unwillingly surrendered.
They packed up my remaining penne to go. The bill? Without tip, it came to $28.78 - everything! Can you believe it? The suggested tip was $7.92 and I left an extra $5 because, honestly, it was worth it and I came away so happy. -
Review from Kent K.
Miami, FL
8/22/2007
I'm surprised to find no reviews for this spectacular place in Little Buenos Aires. Are you kidding me? I don't think that there's any better 'rustic' Italian fare in Miami.
While the exterior doesn't look like much, the dining room transports you to a place where you feel as cool as any rat pack rat. Typically very busy with locals, there is a reason why this place is always popping: the food.
Start with the appetizer Antipasti: it's the best I've had anywhere in the US. Beautiful grilled marinated veggies, excellent prosciutto, lovely cheeses....all absolute top quality ingredients. In fact, this was so good, I have tended to forget what comes next.
The pastas are good, not as great as some real Italian Italian places (see La Marea) but very good nevertheless. Many of the usual favorites show up which lead me to believe that this isn't Italian Italian cooking, more likely Argentine Italian cooking. But that is very, very good in and of itself. Fresh made pasta and well done sauces.
A full bar is a necessary accompaniment to such a satisfying meal. So order a negroni first, have some well priced wine with dinner and then get a black sambuca for dessert. You will not regret this visit up to the north part of the beach. -
Review from Michelle W.
Grand Forks, ND
Updated - 10/13/2009 2 Check-ins Here
I'm still just a fan, still doesn't get a full five starts. I've come here a bunch of times since my last review. I do enjoy the food, some menu items I feel are much better than others. I'm a big fan of the pasta dish they make with cheese & olives....sounds odd, but it is delectable!!
Service is hit or miss, sometimes when I go there they are more than 5 stars and absolutely fawn over you, other times not so much. SO, until I get all the time greatness, they remain 4 stars.Listed in: Miami Area, Fancy Pants
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/10/2009
I've only ate here once so far, but do plan on returning. They have a nice out door seating area. We… Read more »
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Review from Adrienne H.
Palo Alto, CA
4/3/2011
Another of my old Miami faves. Between this and Grazie in South Beach, there are some amazing Italian places in Miami Beach. Gnocchi quartro formaggi was my favorite pasta from here. I do recall the pastas being a little over-priced - the meat dishes are only a couple bucks more I think, which is more reasonable.
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Review from Ikam A.
4/27/2009
This is my favorite Italian restaurant, by far. The food is delicious and the ambiance is great. Their walls are covered with photos of famous patrons and the service is great. It gets really busy some nights, so it helps to have reservations on the weekends. I am glad they accept credit cards now, as they didn't like 10 years ago. (I had to run to the gas station to get some cash from the ATM. lol)
The beef carpaccio is to die for and the pasta is delicious. Salads are great too. They have an extensive wine list and a full bar as well.Listed in: Date Night
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Review from Andrew S.
2/1/2010
The 'Exotic Salad' was perfect. A hearty salad for those of us that know we need to cut carbs yet still feel satisfied.
Atkins definitely approves. As for the rest of the dishes, looked and smelled like heaven. Didn't try it, because I ate too much deliciousness in New York recently that I really need to get my beach bod back... except I did have some of their delicious appetizer-bread, which was a delectable treat. -
Review from Jessica M.
San Francisco, CA
9/24/2008
I used to live down the street from Prima Pasta - and we loved to hit up this restaurant when parents were in town or for a special occasion (hey - we were starving teachers -). I loved the outdoor porch and never felt neglected there service wise (as sometimes you feel when dining at places on Lincoln Road.)
The food is decent Italian (disclaimer: I'm from the Northeast - land of great Italian food) - I especially loved the Insalata Exotica E Gamberi (with hearts of palm and a mustard dressing) and try to make it myself at home. It's a great dish to beat the Miami heat without weighing you down.
I think this would be a great date place (affordable wine) - and could also be deemed "romantic" - though I hesitate to use that in Miami as it's very open to interpretation.
Really have never had a bad meal here - and parking tends to be quite easy (and low cost if not free.) -
Review from Aramis G.
Miami, FL
6/20/2009
Miami isn't really known for Italian food. That said, I like Prima Pasta so much I had my wedding reception diner there. Honestly, I haven't had much off the menu because I always order the same thing: the lasagna... which is the best in Miami. Also the profiter rolls are pretty amazing.
Great environment, great service, great food. A great place for a romantic diner or to take family. -
Review from Kathia D.
2/24/2011
The food is ok. I find it to be pretty mediocre and under-flavored. For what they charge, it is not worth it!
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Review from GiGi D.
Miami, FL
12/26/2010
Fabulous ambiance, staff is very friendly and attentive, food is absolutely delicious and the price is not bad for the place, location, service, and yumminess. Totally recommendable for a first date or a nice night out.
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Review from Orlangela A.
Rockville, MD
4/3/2010
She said...." This is a great Italian restaurant!! The service, food, and environment was amazing. The waiters and staff were all very helpful and nice. We went there for our reception for our wedding and were very happy with everything. We dined in the back private room and it was perfect. We will definitely be eating there again the next time were back in Miami. We loved it!!!!!!!!"
He said...."Wow another worry-free place for weddings. The entire wait staff and managers knew about us and took care of us really good. The owner is very laid back, we didn't need any contracts or deposits which is great. I can't say enough about the staff everybody was so nice and the food and drinks were perfect. Thanks Gerry and your staff!!!!" -
Review from Eric O.
Dallas, TX
8/7/2009
Prima Pasta has some amazing Italian food - it's the kind of place where you'll walk in and see pictures on the wall of all the famous people who have eaten at this cozy and semi-romantic Italian staple in Miami. I would have said 'fully-romantic' were it not for the cheesy 80s music mixes playing in the background throughout our meal.
But Blondie's Heart of Glass aside, you're in for a treat here, as we had the best fettuccine alfredo and veal picatta ever during our visit. They've also got a phenomenal crab ravioli. I will say, the pre-meal bread they serve was a little blah and tough. All of our side dishes, like fresh vegetables, were great.
Service was great - our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and did a great job explaining items and visiting the table without being overwhelming.
We didn't have dessert, but they did bring a couple of little merengues with our bill that were fantastic. A great Italian joint! -
Review from Alan R.
2/14/2009
An above average Italian restaurant with excellent ambiance. If you make it in between five and six everything on the menu is half price. The fried calamari was very good, the veal gardino (paillard style and breaded) good enough to finish for lunch the next day and the rigatoni in a red cream sauce excellent. A good place for a romantic evening out and yet still kid friendly.
They have excellent desert coffees and the deserts looked amazing, but I was too full.
