Miami Spice: Authentic Italian at Zucca
Miami Spice is here for another full month, and as we explore the many Spice menus we are highlighting some of our favorites. If you are looking for authentic, fresh and delicious Italian food served in a comfortably elegant setting, Zucca is the place to go.
Located on the ground level of the Hotel St. Michel in Coral Gables since 2017, Zucca serves quintessentially classic Italian cuisine expertly prepared by Chef de Cuisine Manuel Garcia. Nothing gimmicky or overly “frou-frou” here.
In addition to Zucca’s extensive regular menu featuring the best of Italian cuisine, the restaurant is offering a special 3 course menu “Miami Spice” menu for lunch and dinner.
Lunch $35 MONDAY - SATURDAY
Dinner $60 SUNDAY – THURSDAY
To start, be sure to try one of the Miami Spice featured cocktails. If you’re partial to Margaritas, the Spicy Margarita will not disappoint. The level of sweetness to spice was perfectly balanced and the citrus flavor added just the right pizzazz.
The Carpaccio appetizer, consisting of paper-thin slices of Waygu beef garnished with slivers of Parmesan, delicate white beech mushrooms, a sprinkling of arugula and a drizzle of zesty mustard vinaigrette, is a must-try.
The Tuna Crudo with Marinated Watermelon and Cucumber Mint Broth was light and refreshing.
From the Primi Piatti section we chose the Bucatini Pasta with Lamb Ragu and Pistachio,
and the Open Grilled Sea Bream with Fennel and Orange Salad. The Bucatini pasta was perfectly cooked (al denté with a nice firm texture) and tossed with a rich, tomato-based sauce featuring large pieces of beautifully tender lamb.
The sea bream was an impressively presented whole grilled fish, light and mild-tasting. The fresh and flavorful fennel and orange salad proved to be a perfect complement.
Of course we made sure to leave some room for dessert…
Zucca’s Homemade Italian Tiramisu was llght and yet satisfyingly rich. The Chocolate Gelato was also delicious. It had a rich, chocolatey cacao flavor and a velvety texture- not too sweet…just right.
The service at Zucca is professional and friendly. The staff is helpful and their knowledge is especially appreciated when navigating the extensive wine list.
In 2026 Zucca will be moving to the new Regency Parc luxury residential tower. For those living in Coral Gables, lucky you to have this gem in their neighborhood. For the rest of us, it is certainly worth the trip!
162 Alcazar Avenue,
Coral gables, FL 33134
786.580.3731