143 results found for: Italian

Luna Pasta e Dolci :: Miami

Luna Pasta e Dolci has all the makings of a beloved gem that could easily become a regular dining destination.

Nimo :: Tequesta, Florida

The culinary experience at Nimo was nothing short of excellent featuring an eclectic menu from Spanish, Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Giorgina :: Miami

Giorgina is a new Italian/Mediterranean restaurant in Wynwood that is becoming a new local hot spot.

Oise Ristorante :: Miami

Oise Ristorante fuses traditional elements of Italian and Japanese cuisine, showcasing an exploration of imaginative flavours.

MAASS :: Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale can now proudly boast a sophisticated dining experience, with engaging service at Maass.

Rao’s :: Miami

Rao’s exceeded my initial expectations and is a testament to timeless, old-school Italian charm.

Restaurant Dishes Worth Savouring :: The Best of 2023

The Best Restaurant Dishes of 2023!

Erba Miami :: Coral Gables

Erba emerges not only as an Italian culinary haven but as a reflection of the vibrant flavours of Miami.

Lurra :: Kyoto

Lurra in Kyoto’s culinary landscape offers an exquisite fusion of freshness and excitement in every bite.

Narisawa :: Tokyo

Narisawa restaurant in Tokyo was the most unforgettable food experience on my 19-day tour of Japan.

Bar Prima :: Toronto

Bar Prima specializes in elevated Italian cuisine and is a delightful and sophisticated addition to Toronto’s vibrant dining landscape.

Restaurants I want to try this Year, 2023-2024 :: Miami

Here is my list of Restaurants I want to try this year in Miami!

Roscioli :: New York

Showcasing the finest produce and Roman delicacies, an authentic taste of Rome, and a must-visit if in New York.

Lodi :: New York

Lodi in New York does not compromise on quality ingredients, even when serving a simple dish, and draws inspiration from Italian aperitivo culture.

Cucina Buca :: Toronto

Italian-focused, Cucina Buca brings its unique style of hospitality and tempting food to Midtown Toronto.

Casa Paco :: Toronto

Casa Paco, a charming and intimate Spanish restaurant with Italian influences, is in Toronto’s Little Italy neighborhood. It was an absolute delight and exceeded our expectations. This spot is a labour of love and a place I can’t wait to return to.

Bellini, Coconut Grove :: Miami

Bellini enticed me with their attentive service, their breathtaking views, and a menu of enticing choices.

Eating House :: Coral Gables, Miami

The Eating House debuts its much anticipated new location in Coral Gables, it showcases a creative, tantalizing mix and interplay of brilliant dishes.

Walrus Rodeo :: Miami

If the name doesn’t grab you the food certainly will! This new concept restaurant Walrus Rodeo, from the same people who brought you Michelin Star Boia De should definitely be checked out if you’re in town.

Contessa Ristorante :: Miami

It’s big, bold, glamorous and is everything you would expect from an extraordinary hospitality group.

Shanea’s 2022 Restaurant Hit List :: Miami

After dining out at numerous restaurants in 2022, consuming all types of food from pizza to burgers to special occasion meals. I have come out with my Miami favorites, the best of the best list!

The Four Seasons :: Bangkok

After a six year hiatus from the Thai capital, the new Four Seasons Bangkok is certainly back with a bang!

Curryish Tavern :: Toronto

It was one of those rare meals in Toronto where truly every dish we ordered was creative and delicious.

Crown Shy :: New York

At Crown Shy in New York the food was satisfying and the presentations were nice but nothing knocked it out of the park. It was pleasant and an excellent choice if you work or live in the area.

Quince Restaurant :: San Francisco, CA

San Francisco is one of the culinary epicenters of the Americas. Some would argue, including myself, that it is THE best food region in the United States. Quince Restaurant is a perfect example.

The Drexel :: Miami

There has been a lot of hype since the opening of a new South Beach restaurant called The Drexel in the Esme Hotel and overseen by the founders of Mandolin Aegean Bistro.

Cotogna :: San Francisco, CA

Cotogna in San Francisco, California is not only known for their homemade pastas but also their spit-roasted meats and seafood roasted in the restaurant’s wood-burning oven. But if I can give you some advice, order the pasta!

Shanea’s 2021 Restaurant Hit List :: Miami

I’m back recommending my favourite new and notable Miami restaurants along with my tried and true choices for ShaneaSavours 2021 Hit List. 

Osteria Giulia :: Toronto

Toronto’s newest Italian restaurant, Osteria Giulia, could become a new perennial favourite, I am thrilled to see another great dining experience in the Yorkville area of Toronto. Keep them coming.

Little Mad :: New York

The food at Little Mad in New York has a flavourful mix of cultures, with influences of Italian, French, American, and Korean all intertwining into interesting and wonderful creations. This is definitely on my must-return list.

Rezdôra :: New York

One of New York’s best-rated Italian restaurants is Rezdôra at 27 East 20th Street. It got three stars in the New York Times and received a Michelin star. It is authentic, and the chef cooks his pasta to perfection, with inventive variations, so for that reason, I am recommending it.

L˜ARIA Restaurant at The Mandarin Oriental :: Lake Como, Italy

L’Aria Restaurant at The Mandarin Oriental in Lake Como, Italy boasts a sophisticated ambiance, quality service, and a delightful menu. Chef Max Blasone is an innovator of excellent cuisine and had upped the ante when it comes to dining in Como.

Pizzeria Concettina ai Tre Santi :: Naples, Italy

Pizzeria Concettina ai Tre Santi is located in the heart Naples, Italy. It’s been run by the Oliva family for over sixty years and is now in its fourth generation. We were enamored with our delicious meal and impressed with this historic, yet ambitious and energetic restaurant.

Sextantio Albergo Diffuso :: Abruzzo, Italy

The Sextantio Albergo Diffuso in Abruzzo, Italy has accommodations that are dispersed among several stone houses of the ancient village. The hotel has tried to retain its original look and feel. They have incorporated traditional handicrafts and tried to preserve the integrity of the original structure. All modern technology is hidden, and the original stone and foundations and walls are brought back to their authentic features.

Portosole Restaurant :: Coral Gables

Portosole Restaurant in Coral Gables serves luxury, charm, attention to detail, and inspiring, authentic Italian food.

Wayku Restaurant :: Miami

Wayku Restaurant in Miami offers a Latin fusion menu rooted in the Andean culture that is small but well-chosen and artistically prepared. It’s worth checking out.

Casa Isola Osteria :: Miami

The dishes are quite hearty at the newly opened Casa Isola Osteria in Miami by chefs Jose Mendin and Santo Agnello. They’re serving a Brooklyn Italian menu that grandma would serve you at home.

Carbone :: Miami

Miami’s most anticipated restaurant, Carbone, recently opened its doors. If you are lucky enough to score a reservation, make sure to come hungry to enjoy the robust and vibrant food.

Osteria Morini :: Miami

Miami’s Osteria Morini, in the Kimpton Palomar South Beach is a cut above the competition. An NYC transplant by the Altamarea Group, it’s my favourite restaurant in Miami this year!

Lido Restaurant and Champagne Bar at The Surf Club :: Miami

Everything we ordered at Lido Restaurant and Champagne Bar at the Surf Club in Miami’s Surfside Four Seasons was delightful. They take things seriously when it comes to creating a safe environment for guests.

Perl Restaurant :: Miami

I’m so happy to see a new establishment opening in North Miami like Perl Restaurant that is worthy of many return visits. The menu combines many influences and there is something for everyone.

Ascari :: Toronto

A new Italian restaurant opens in Toronto’s entertainment district, offering Italian classics with modern interpretations.

Dova :: Toronto

Dova is Toronto’s newest restaurant, located at 229 Carlton Street in Cabbagetown, near Carlton and Parliment St. Some of you may be very familiar with chef Marotta from his other established restaurant Ardo. The food here is similar to Ardo. They serve delicious artisanal pastas, woodfire pizzas, fresh caught fish and ethically sourced meats. The food is reflective of the chef’s family Sicilian heritage. The chef has a deep connection to Sicilian and Mediterranean food, thanks to the influence of his mother’s cooking.

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition No. 6

I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.

Focaccia by Katia Bruno :: Toronto

I love discovering or being recommended to small family owned and small independent businesses and supporting our home-grown local talents. One such, is by gifted baker, […]

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition No. 5

I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition No. 4

I have always longed for delivery from upscale and delicious purveyors. Unfortunately, it took a pandemic for eateries in Toronto to bring delivery and takeout to the masses. Here is my latest list of restaurants in Toronto offering takeout and or delivery.

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition No. 3

More Toronto eateries are jumping on the takeout/delivery bandwagon offering first-rate meals and groceries direct to your home. Many of these places have very difficult reservations to snag, so now is your chance to sample their fare!

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition No. 2

In the hope people are continuing to support local eateries and caterers by ordering takeout or delivery from participating restaurants, I’ve created a second edition of my favourite spots in Toronto for takeout / delivery.

Shanea’s Favourites for New York Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition

I have shared some of my favourite places in New York open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.

Shanea’s Favourites for Miami Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition

I have shared some of my favourite places in Miami open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.

Shanea’s Favourites for Toronto Takeout/Delivery :: Social Isolation Edition

I have shared some of my favourite places in Toronto open for takeout or delivery during the Covid-19 social isolation quarantine. Many of these establishments need our support now more than ever.

Navé Restaurant :: Coconut Grove, Florida

Navé Restaurant in Coconut Grove, Florida serves an excellent array of homemade pastas and a beautiful selection of the highest quality seafood.

Due Camini :: Puglia, Italy

Due Camini in Puglia, Italy is perfect for a special celebration, a romantic meal or a gourmet treat to experience contemporary techniques and dishes that have a history of culinary traditions, re-created in a cutting-edge environment.

La Marea :: Puglia, Italy

La Marea in Puglia, Italy is a family-run seafood restaurant, with a simple ambiance befitting the area. They serve delicious focaccia to each table which is a local specialty.

Mandarin Oriental :: Lake Como, Italy

Everything was seamless during our stay at the newly opened Mandarin Oriental in Lake Como, Italy. Almost every spacious room has magnificent views and the service is thoughtful and professional. Highly recommended!

Doma :: Miami

Wynwood’s prettiest restaurant, Doma, has recently opened, just one block south of Beaker and a Gray. They really strive for a purity of ingredients and a seasonality of the dishes.

Fiola :: Coral Gables, Miami

Fiola in Coral Gables, Miami is the type of restaurant you would expect to find in a in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Dinner was deeply satisfying and picture perfect. The cuisine is inspired by regional Italian classics, using local, seasonal ingredients.

Shanea Savours’ Favourite Miami Restaurants 2018/2019

Back by popular demand, my personal favourite list of Miami restaurants for 2018/2019 in no particular order, as well as new openings I want to try.

Frilu Restaurant :: Toronto

Toronto’s Frilu Restaurant is a modern, casual eatery, serving fine dining, with warm, gracious hospitality and showcasing playful, creative and dramatic food.

Alma Restaurant :: Toronto

Alma Restaurant in Toronto is unpretentious, approachable, and delicious, with an eclectic menu. Chef Anna Chen is producing a larger than life winning formula.

Obra Kitchen Table :: Miami (CLOSED)

At Obra Kitchen Table in Miami my meal was a gastronomic feast, that was creative, ambitious, innovative and yet unpretentious, approachable and casual. Considering the pedigree of the chef, the food was moderately priced.

Wynona Restaurant :: Toronto

At Wynona in Toronto, the experience was more than pleasant and relaxed, with good food at moderate prices, in a casual atmosphere.

Gennaro Amitrano Restaurant :: Capri

Gennaro Amitrano Restaurant in Capri is an elegant, intimate restaurant with professional service, sound pacing, and each dish a visual joy. Is this Capri? A resounding YES!

Mirabelle :: Rome

Mirabelle in Rome combines a great view with refined gastronomy. You know you are in excellent hands and are in for a special lunch or dinner.

Giulietta Restaurant :: Toronto

At Giulietta Restaurant in Toronto everything on the menu sounds enticing, and every dish that passed by me looked like exceptional regional specialties.

IL Covo Restaurant :: Toronto

The menu at IL Covo Restaurant in Toronto is more on the rustic side, with robust flavors. You will find tasty and creative dishes, that are reasonably priced.

Labora Restaurant :: Campo Food Hall, Toronto

Labora Restaurant in Toronto’s Campo Food Hall serves robust and flavourful food with appreciation for the simple and perfect preparation and flavour pairing.

Tanto :: Toronto

Tanto Restaurant in Toronto serves dishes with Italian, Spanish and Argentinian flavours and influences. Almost every protein and vegetable spends time on the grill, reminiscent of Frances Mallmann. It was a nice change from the usual.

Palat Restaurant :: Miami

Palat Restaurant is an eye-catching spot, and made me do a double take as I was driving by. I hadn’t heard a thing about it, but decided to try it on a whim, for lunch. It was so good, I returned for dinner the next day.

St. Roch Market Food Hall :: Miami

Miami’s St. Roch Market is a contemporary multi-vendor food hall where the curated food and beverage program is accompanied by a high quality, hospitality driven experience.

Sherwood’s Bistro and Bar :: Miami (CLOSED)

Sherwood’s Bistro and Bar in the Little River district of Miami is a uniquely charming place with reasonably priced, simple food.

Casa Tua Cucina :: Brickell City Centre, Miami

The 18,000 sqft. Casa Tua Cucina in Brickell City Centre, Miami includes 12 unique dining stations, such as pizza, fish, pasta, crudo, cheese, coffee, gelato, pastry, chocolates, rotisserie chicken, meat and even a flower shop.

Le Marocain Restaurant :: Marrakech

Le Morocain in Marrakech’s La Mamounia Hotel will transport you to the heart of Moroccan hospitality. The food was diverse and exotic with a fusion of flavours and textures.

Roberta’s Pizza Pop Up :: Miami

Thought by many to be the best pizza in the Universe, Brooklyn’s Roberta’s Pizza has opened an outdoor Pop Up in Miami’s Design District.

Toronto’s Newest Restaurants 2017-2018

I may be away from Toronto this winter, but I am still keeping tabs on new restaurants. Look forward to you letting me know what you think about these about these as well as anything I should try on my return!

Restaurante Triciclo :: Madrid

It’s hard to pigeonhole the cuisine at Restaurante Triciclo in Madrid but it’s easy to love. The food captures a multicultural spirit, with Spanish, Peruvian, Chinese and Italian dishes. They push the boundaries and serve well prepared and attractively presented dishes.

La Mamounia :: Marrakech, Morocco

La Mamounia in Morocco is iconic, opulent and you will be ensured a most luxurious stay. It is hard to tear yourself away to tour Marrakech – it’s an intoxicating haven.

Miami’s Newest Restaurants 2017-2018

Just when you thought you were all caught up with the latest restaurants in Miami, here comes a new list to keep you busy this season. Watch for my upcoming reviews.

Maker Pizza :: Toronto

Maker Pizza focuses on what matters – fresh ingredients, creative recipes, cooked to order options and friendly staff. It has been rated number one in many Toronto publications and I can see why.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel :: Milan

At the Mandarin Oriental in Milan all your senses will be pampered in this sumptuous, prestigious and stylish hotel.

Seta :: Milan

Seta is one of Milan’s best dining destinations. It sets the bar high, with original, conceptual Italian dishes that not only look stunning, they also taste it.

Metamorfosi :: Rome

Metamorfosi in Rome delivers an exceptionally good meal of fusion cuisine with an eclectic, international feel. It’s a special restaurant in every respect. Highly recommend.

JK Kitchen :: Capri

JK Kitchen Restaurant & Terrace in Capri delivers a level of luxury, charm, style and attention to detail that creates a truly special evening.

Osteria Francescana :: Modena

Osteria Francescana in Modena, IT serves modern Italian cuisine in a sophisticated setting. It’s the ultimate stage for Chef Massimo to showcase his supreme talent.

Ristorante Da Danilo :: Modena

Da Danilo in Modena, Italy is a family run restaurant where the food is made the same way as it was 50 years ago. It’s an unexpected surprise.

Ristorante Da Giacomo :: Milano

I know when I book Ristorante Da Giacomo in Milano I will always get a consistently good meal. It is an old Milanese trattoria that is tried and true with a kitchen that is well-executed.

Sud Forno :: Toronto

Everything is extremely fresh at Sud Forno in Toronto. One fabulous treat is the bombolini, an Italian sugar donut with fillings of Nutella or crema.

La Palma Restaurant :: Toronto

Toronto’s La Palma is a new fun restaurant with respectable food.
The menu is Italian at heart with a California sensibility.

Fat Ox :: Scottsdale

A restaurant that has been generating a lot of buzz in Scottsdale is Fat Ox, a mega restaurant that opened in November 2016 at 6316 North Scottsdale Road under the leadership of Chef Matt Carter, previously of Zinc Bistro and The Mission.

Tratto :: Phoenix

Chris Bianco, the James Beard award-winning chef, who has a national reputation for pizza has himself another winner, with his newest venture, Tratto in Phoenix, AZ.

Bar Ape :: Toronto

Bar Ape uses refined recipes and serve an artisanal, handcrafted from scratch, gelato bar. The flavours are intense and the mouth feel is sinfully creamy.

Valentino Italian Cucina :: Ft. Lauderdale

At Valentino Italian Cucina in Ft. Lauderdale Chef Giovanni creates expertly prepared Italian dishes with a modern twist using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all that he prepares.

Forte dei Marmi :: Miami

At Forte dei Marmi in Miami they go to great lengths to bring you the flavours of the Amalfi coast, using high-quality ingredients, exceptional regional specialties and inventive Italian cooking in a beautifully presented in a relaxed and vibrant setting.

La Petite Maison :: Miami (UPDATE)

There’s a buzz to La Petite Maison in Miami. The place exudes luxury, charm and style. They’ve really gone to great lengths in terms of hospitality, bringing in staff from the Dubai and London locations to assist the opening. If they can just refine the food, the discriminating clientele will return in droves.

Stanzione 87 :: Miami

The pizza at Stanzione 87 in Miami cooks in an Italian wood burning oven in under 90 seconds. The pie is soft, elastic, tender and fragrant with a sauce that tastes perfect.

Toscana Divino :: Miami

Miami’s Toscana Divino offers a selection of traditional Tuscan and “moderna” fare. The dishes are unexpected and sophisticated. The chef believes in providing quality, flavour and freshness in the artisanal approach of “Fatto in Casa”.

Ferraro’s Kitchen and Wine Bar :: Miami

On a whim, I decided to try a new spot that I had heard nothing about. Located at 1099 NE 79th Street is a hidden gem you may not have heard of but you will be glad that you are now. Ferraro’s Kitchen and Wine Bar is sure to impress.

Cardon y El Tirano :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

Cardon y El Tirano in Miami is creative, flavourful and eclectic. It’s not all about the glitz like so many places, instead, it’s modernizing the local food scene by bringing new, interesting choices to locals and tourists alike.

Via Emilia 9 :: Miami

Chef Cacciatori works magic at Via Emilia 9 in Miami, a little gem of a restaurant. The food is soulful and luscious. I love fresh pasta so I decided to go with a four-course pasta tasting.

Paulie Gee’s :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

Brooklyn’s Paulie Gee’s has come to Miami. The crust is thin, but not soggy, and nicely charred and tender, just the way I like it. Every month they collaborate with another restaurant to incorporate what they are known for into a pizza.

Upland :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

Upland Miami is an offshoot of the New York restaurant with the same name by restauranteur Stephen Starr and his Chef Justin Smillie of Il Buco. At Upland the food showcases Smillie’s rustic/comfort food and seasonally influenced fare.

Leña Restaurante :: Toronto

Leña in Toronto is a recent venture by the O&B Group. Located in the new Saks 5th Ave, it’s quite striking and sophisticated for a restaurant within a department store. They have many restaurants from Canoe, Auberge de Pommier, Jump, Luma, to the O&B Canteen.

Fendi Truck :: Art Basel, Miami

Fendi has arrived at Art Basel. If you head over to the Design District you can shop and selfie with Fendi’s cherry red, customized three-wheeled Italian truck from the 1940’s.

Fi’lia :: Brickell, Miami

Fi’lia in Brickell, Miami is a play on the Italian word, “figlia”, which means “daughter” – Chef Michael Schwartz two daughters. He has expanded his operations and opened this restaurant in partnership with the Related Group. It is located on the main floor of the SLS.

Crudo :: Phoenix, Arizona (NOW CLOSED)

Crudo is Chef-Owner Cullen Campbell’s imaginative eatery, serving small plates including his fabulous silky crudos. Phoenix seems to have quite a few restaurants located in strip malls, though it is unexpected to find an upscale restaurant that impresses.

Buca Yorkville :: Toronto

The food is never boring – it’s truly unforgettable. When people ask me, what is my favourite restaurant in Toronto, Buca Yorkville is always on the top of my list. I am seriously impressed with the level of food, the knowledgeable and friendly staff, the high-end crowd and the remarkable creativity of the menu. Rob’s food is a modern approach to dining without being gimmicky. Long live the king.

Carisma Restaurant :: Toronto

I am always seeking out new restaurant spots and I forget to revisit some of my favourites. I am embarrassed to say that is has been years since I have been back to Carisma, but you would never know it from the warm greeting we received from owners, Margi and Michael Pagliaro..

Glass and Vine :: Coconut Grove, FL

Glass and Vine in Coconut Grove was created by Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli, a James Beard Award nominee and winner of the Food Network’s show, Chopped, and Grove Bay Hospitality Group. The indoor/outdoor 200 seat restaurant is located in the heart of Peacock Park.

Casa D’Angelo :: Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

The menu is quite large with unique takes on Tuscan-style cuisine, plus the waiters ramble off a number of nightly specials. The servers are polite, knowledgeable and provide great recommendations based on your preferences. Chef Angelo Elia still cooks in the kitchen and occasionally greets familiar guests.

Shanea’s Miami Restaurant List for 2016-2017

Miami’s dining scene keeps getting better. Let me introduce you to last season’s favourites, new restaurants and my most anticipated for the Fall and Winter of 2016-2017 …

Ardo Restaurant :: Toronto

Folks, we have a winner. Ardo is open for lunch during the week and dinner Monday to Saturday. Toronto needs more places like this. I am totally enamored with Ardo.

L’Amico Restaurant :: New York

You can’t win them all, and sadly, Chef Laurent Tourondel’s newest restaurant in New York was a big disappointment for me. This is actually the second restaurant by the celebrated Chef that did not live up to expectations. The other was now the closed Market Restaurant.

JK Place Capri :: Italy

JK has one of the largest pools on the island, with clean, comfy chairs and shade if needed. We are pampered at the pool by Michele, who looks after all our needs. The crowd is a great mix of young and older, from celebrities to jet setters to CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.

J.K. Place Roma :: Italy

If you are seeking a unique and indulgent city experience in a superb location, the J.K. Place Roma is unsurpassed in Rome – it has an abundance of style and a staff that exudes warm hospitality.

Ufficio Restaurant :: Toronto (NOW CLOSED)

Everything we tried was a home run at newly opened Ufficio Restaurant in Toronto. It was fresh, tasty, and seasonal. The cooking was quite sophisticated and well-executed. You have got to try their grilled homemade focaccia bread!

Upland :: New York

The restaurant has a nice ambience with dark green leather banquettes, navy lacquered painted ceilings, and copper shelves stocked with backlit wine bottles and jars of preserved lemons. The menu is large with lots of choices. It is divided into pizza, one: small plates, two: pastas, three: mains, and vegetables.

Bar Reyna :: Toronto

Bar Reyna – the new project of the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of View the Vibe, Nicki Laborie – is located at 158 Cumberland St. in Toronto’s trendy Yorkville area. The best dish of the night was the falafel bowl. I liked the crispness of the falafel.

Impero Cafeé :: New York (NOW CLOSED)

It is Scott Conant’s pastas that remind you of why he became famous in the first place. His Pasta Pomodoro is a signature dish. Such simple ingredients but it is the best tomato pasta you might ever have.

Shanea’s Latest on SocialMiami

Did you know Shanea is a contributor to SocialMiami.com? Click through to see some of her latest reviews.

Piano Piano :: Toronto

When I return I want to try some wood fired pizza, but it did look a little too charred for my taste. Our neighbours seemed to be enjoying their veal parmesan. There is even a cheeseburger on the menu and I presume that it must be good as well.

The Brain Project Exclusive Sneak Peek Party @ Bulgari :: Yorkdale, Toronto

Nathalie Diamantis of Bulgari, flew in from New York to oversee the evening. Champagne was flowing and chef Victor Barry of PIANO PIANO was there to greet guests and supervise the wonderful hors d’oeuvres being passed around.

Carbone Restaurant :: New York

It is nearly impossible to get a reservation at Carbone in Manhattan, NYC. In fact, getting in is like winning the lottery. Now I see why – it was fantastic, why did I wait so long to come here?

Momofuku Nishi :: New York (NOW CLOSED)

David Chang challenges our taste buds and brings food to a new level. He takes some of my favourite dishes and makes them new and unique.

Casa Tua :: Miami

Why has this place been popular since day one? First, it feels like you are dining in someone’s private home. The background music is chill. Note I said background music – not the blaring, can’t hear yourself think kind that is so popular these days. The crowd is trés chic, the ambiance is sophisticated, elegant and romantic. It’s difficult to get a reservation, and it certainly has an air of “snob appeal” … though some might consider it rudeness, than anything.

Figo Restaurant :: Toronto

It’s one of the better places in the entertainment district, but it was underwhelming and fell a bit short for me. I would still go back and I would try it for brunch as well. It has the potential to get much better and I hope it does. And it doesn’t seem to detract from customers – the place was buzzing on a weeknight.

Kaori by Walter Martino :: Miami

Patrons are in for a treat! Kaori is Miami’s first 360-degree cinematography dining experience. The space is so aesthetically pleasing, with cutting edge technology, art, music and scents. The food presentation is most beautiful, a complete knockout in the terms of creativity.

MC Kitchen :: Miami

Quiet and more elegant, MC Kitchen stands out from many other restaurants in this area. It’s uber-talented Chef, Dena Marino, was an Iron Chef alumni. The food is what I would call modern Italian cuisine with inventive takes on Italian classics.

The Big Fish :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

I liked my Insalata di Salmon, which was fresh tasting and perfectly grilled. They serve Lavazza coffee and it was prepared like espresso we get in Italy. In addition, they gave us a tiny glass of limoncello. I don’t think I would run back but it wasn’t a total disappointment. We also really enjoyed dining al fresco.

Bellissima: Italy and High Fashion 1945-1968 :: NSU Art Museum, Ft. Lauderdale

Exploring the complex and ever-changing story of Italian high fashion (alta moda) through a contemporary lens, the exhibit highlights stunning garments designed by Italy’s biggest names.
What I found most interesting was how many of the creations are still relevant. It is a small exhibit, but it is one worth visiting.

Made in Italy Gourmet :: Wynwood, Miami

Made in Italy Gourmet has a wine bar and a retail market with items such as oils, sauces, pasta, and Italian artisanal products. There is also an Italian wine library with over 2,000 bottles in all price ranges. And don’t forget the cheese and cured meat counter. Their motto: Taste, Live, Share. They really follow these ideals.

New York City’s Most Anticipated Restaurant Openings for 2016

Here’s my list of must-try’s for 2016. Comment with some of the spots you are dying to try!

Shanea’s List for Restaurants in New York City 2016

Here is my list of restaurants that I want to try this year, or that I have already tried and enjoyed.

Sharron Lewis Design Center :: Miami

I discovered Sharron Lewis Design Center in 2014, but the shop has been around since 1999. The showroom is located at 1601 NE 2nd Avenue, south of the Design District at 16th Street in the historical Franklin building,

Ironside Pizza :: Miami

Shh, I have a little place to tell you about but don’t tell too many people, I want to be able to get a table. It is off the beaten track in an artsy complex that houses architect and design firms. If you go to Biscayne Blvd heading south turn right at 79th street and drive a couple of blocks in you will run right into the Ironside complex. At 7580 Northeast 4th court in the Little River District, park your car in the lot for free and wander inside this complex till you find Ironside Pizza.

Via Verdi Cucina Rustica :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

We had the pleasure of eating at Via Verdi and we were impressed with the food as well as the warm welcome from the Carro brothers and their staff. A special shout out to Fabrizio who really made our dinner very special with his meal suggestions and conversation.

Shanea’s List for New Restaurants in Miami and Her Old Favourites 2015-2016

Best old favourites and new loves.

Bazi Restaurant :: Miami (NOW CLOSED)

Bazi restaurant (CLOSED) at 1200 Collins is another new restaurant that opened recently in Miami. It is located in the lobby of the beautiful Art Deco Marlin hotel.

Oberoi Hotel :: Agra, India

Considering the hotel is over ten years old it is in pristine shape. Clean and beautiful principal rooms as well as guest rooms. Ours was on the smaller side but lacked for nothing. Every room has a view of the beautiful gardens and pools and best of all the Taj Mahal.

Restaurants Napa 2015

Of course everyone wants to try The French Laundry at least once in your life. So go ahead, beg your concierge or use a connection to try and get you in. We have been twice and I wouldn’t go back again.

Zucca Trattoria :: Toronto (NOW CLOSED)

Zucca Trattoria located at 2150 Yonge St. across from the former Art Shop, has been around forever. Well at least since 1996. We used to go all the time but we have neglected it, always wanting to try new places. But we tried it again tonight and I have to say, Andrew Milne has some of the best Italian food in the city.

Rome/Florence Restaurants 2015

1) Roscoli, great deli/restaurant near the Campo Fiori, amazing carbonara and burrata. The tomato soup is wonderful and so are all the cheeses. They have a […]

Via Carota :: New York

One of my favorite places to eat in New York last year was a charming West Village Italian Restaurant called Via Carota. It is located on 51 Grove St.