Do we really need another Italian restaurant specializing in pasta in Miami? If the pasta is as good as what’s being served at Pasta Wynwood, the answer is a resounding yes!

Opened in October 2024, this industrial-chic restaurant is located at 124 NW 28th Street in Wynwood. The 2,400-square-foot, 77-seat space combines a lively, welcoming atmosphere with a casually stylish design. High exposed ceilings, polished concrete floors, faux brick walls, and wood-and-metal accents create a modern yet warm vibe, further softened by wooden tables, brown leatherette seating, and rattan lampshades that cast a cozy glow.

The concept is the brainchild of Peruvian husband-and-wife duo Chef Juan Manuel Umbert and Janice Buraschi, who bring their unique interpretation of Italian cuisine infused with flavors inspired by their Peruvian heritage. Everything on the menu is made in-house, with pasta crafted fresh in their open kitchen. You might wonder what chefs from Peru know about Italian cooking—but after one bite, it’s clear these two know exactly what they’re doing.

Manager David Caplan welcomed us warmly as we settled into the bustling space. The concise menu offers five starters, about a dozen pastas, and five desserts. We began with the homemade stracciatella and sourdough bread, made using a starter the chefs brought with them from Peru—an absolute revelation. The Caesar salad was solid with a subtle kick, but the standout starter was the razor clams, served with house-made nduja and salsa verde. They were so good, they might just be the best razor clams I’ve ever had.

The pastas are the undeniable stars of the show. Choosing was a challenge with options like cacio e pepe, spaghetti alle vongole, fettuccine with nduja and mascarpone, and more. We opted for the pappardelle with 15-hour braised beef cheek ragu, which was slightly too salty for my taste but still flavorful. However, the taglierini with black truffle and 36-month-old Parmigiano Reggiano was perfection—delicate, tender pasta in a rich, unforgettable sauce.

Pricing is reasonable by today’s standards. For context, Torno Subito charges double for pasta that doesn’t come close to this level of quality. The wine list focuses on Italian selections, with options by the glass or bottle, and the cocktail menu leans into Negronis and spritzes. My Hugo Spritz, made with St. Germain, prosecco, and mint, was delightful.

Chef Juan Manuel handles the pasta, while Chef Janice is in charge of desserts—and what a talent she is. The torta di pistachio di Bronte was exceptional: moist, with a bold toasted pistachio flavor, a thin crust, and a side of luscious mascarpone cream. The gelato offerings, inspired by local Peruvian fruits, were intriguing. One flavor had a date-like taste, while the other was entirely new to me but equally delicious. There’s even a mascarpone-and-gorgonzola cheesecake that’s both unique and indulgent.

Service was another highlight. Our server expertly explained each dish, and I appreciated that courses were served one at a time, allowing us to savor each without feeling rushed. Fresh plates and table resets between courses added a touch of sophistication that many restaurants could learn from. My only suggestion would be to provide serving utensils with each dish for easier sharing.

It’s hard to believe this restaurant is just two months old, given how polished the experience felt. It’s no surprise the space was packed—good news travels fast.

Pasta Wynwood delivers exceptional quality at fair prices, making it a welcome addition to Miami’s dining scene. Recommended.

Happy dining,

Shanea

01/16/2025

 

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