Cecconi’s has been packing them in since its opening around 5 or so years ago. Just before a curve on 4385 Collins Avenue, south of the Fountainbleau Hotel and located within the SoHo Beach House, a 1940’s Art Deco original. Don’t have dinner in the lobby which is not very attractive or comfortable with the tiny low tables, but opt to dine alfresco.
This restaurant is a “sexy” Miami outpost of a London original. It also has a location in West Hollywood, which isn’t as pretty but has good food. I am told there is another location in Istanbul.
The restaurant is truly romantic with twinkle lights, trees, hanging plants , and an open sky. It really is a magical setting.
We came there before 7pm and unbeknownst to us there was a happy hour with $7 glasses of wine.
I think this restaurant is about scene first and food second. However cars are lining up on the street to get in here. We had a good meal.
We started with some Cicchetti, which are little snacks. The Avocado and Chickpea dip with crudités was not very good, kind of sour tasting. On the other hand the Whipped Ricotta with Truffle Honey and Almonds was fantastic. The homemade breadsticks were tasty and there was a good bread basket selection.
For appetizer the Calamari were quite tender.
For our mains the Cavatelli with Lamb Ragu and artichokes was quite good. On the other hand the Chicken Paillard with Heirloom tomatoes was average but a good healthy choice.
I hear the Spaghetti with Lobster is good and I would like to try that next time.
For dessert we tried the Key Lime pie with Meringue. It was mediocre, we made a wrong choice. In a city that excels in this pie, this one was not memorable.
Don’t get me wrong, the food is good but it doesn’t live up to its hype.
There is a retractable roof but this restaurant truly shines on a warm evening with a gentle ocean breeze.
Recommended,
Happy dining,
Shanea
Ps. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week. It is supposed to do a great Sunday brunch.
Valet Parking was $15
