By Erin Lavan | Associate Miami Publisher
Quaint, romantic, and historic, Española Way dates all the way back to the 1920s. In 1979, it officially became an historic site as part of The Miami Beach Art Deco District, and shortly thereafter, the city named the street one of its first historic landmarks. Modeled after a cobblestone street in Spain, this “Spanish Village” that once laid claim to gangsters and Bohemians is now famous for its fantastic fare and global cuisine, serving tourists and locals alike.
A La Folie {516 Española Way; 305.538.4484}
Capturing the essence of Española Way, A La Folie is as authentically European as a café can be. Nestled under palm trees on the less-traveled end of the lane, this little French retreat invites guests to linger over a café au lait and share a sweet or savory crêpe. Drawing a largely local crowd, A La Folie preserves Española Way’s unpretentious, bohemian vibe, all while serving French classics. afoliecafe.com
Tapas y Tintos {448 Española Way; 305.538.8272}
An Española Way pioneer, Tapas y Tintos set the tone for this historic Spanish Village with an authentic tapas bar right out of Spain, complete with live music, flamenco, and salsa dancing. To eat tapas is to eat by whim, so gather your friends and indulge in social bites of more than 50 authentic dishes. As featured on The Food Network’s “On the Road,” Rachael Ray’s pick is the Tortilla Española, a traditional Spanish omelette made with potatoes and chorizo. tapasytintos.com
Hosteria Romana {429 Española Way; 305.532.4299}
Quite literally the heart of Española Way, Hosteria Romana is a place unlike any other, with traditional Italian music spilling into the streets and cheerful staff welcoming guests to enjoy all things Italian. Owner Marco Efrati brings his passion from the heart of Rome, and despite his staff’s playful costumes, the food and traditions are taken seriously. Imported meats and cheeses, exceptional pasta dishes, fine cuts of meat, and the freshest seafood have been satisfying hungry crowds on Española Way for more than a decade. hosteriaromana.com
Fez {512 Española Way; 305.672.4469}
The newest addition to Española Way does not disappoint, offering exotic flavors and authenticity all the way from Morocco. Chef/Owner and Morocco native Faycal Bettioui grew up in the kitchen exploring new flavors with fresh, local ingredients. He brings that experience to Fez, a swanky little spot with comfy seating, romantic lighting, and attentive service. Moroccan Meatballs and Couscous served with short ribs are just two tasty ways Fez puts a modern twist on tradition. fezmiami.com
Piccola Cucina {440 Española Way; 305.535.3129}
With locations in New York City, Sardinia, Italy, and Ibiza, Spain, it’s no wonder that Piccola Cucina has brought its Southern Italian flavors and essence to Española Way. “Piccola Cucina” means little kitchen, but to visionary Chef/Owner Philip Guardione, it means creativity. With the freshest ingredients and homemade pasta, he infuses the traditional Mediterranean dishes with his personal style. Plenty of seafood plays up the pasta, bright salads delight during all seasons, and secondi di carne always satisfy. Whatever your pleasure, save room for the authentic Italian desserts like Cannoli Siciliani and Tiramisù. piccolacucinagroup.com
Pepe Nero {500 Española Way; 786.237.0762}
A welcoming corner spot with cozy outdoor seating, a meal at Pepe Nero is like dining alfresco on a quaint cobblestone street in Italy. The cuisine is quintessentially Italian, as is the chef, and the food is best enjoyed under the stars on Española Way. We recommend getting a seat early for their two-for-one happy hour to share a Tagliere Pepe Nero—a generous spread of prosciutto di Parma, salami, ham, Grana Padano, and Brie. Fresh pastas are bountiful, but if any item deserves special praise, it’s the Homemade Ravioli filled with osso buco in a red wine and mushroom sauce. pepeneroitalianrestaurants.com