Step into the Elegance of Leonardo
Miami Beach is set to welcome Leonardo, a dining experience that promises to fuse the charm of classic Italian cuisine with the vibrant energy of Miami nightlife. Opening its doors on April 17, this restaurant and lounge offers a unique blend of authentic flavors and a lively atmosphere designed to elevate your dining experience.
A Culinary Journey Inspired by Italian Traditions
Founded by Igor Dze, Leonardo draws heavily from his formative years in Italy, where he fell in love with the culture of leisurely meals and heartfelt hospitality. “Leonardo was created to revive the romance and ritual of classic Italian dining,” Dze explains. The restaurant aims to create a space where diners gather not just for a meal, but for a memorable experience that evolves throughout the night.
A Design That Transports You
The restaurant’s interior, crafted by Igor and his wife, Libria, transports guests to a bygone era reminiscent of the 1930s through the 1950s. Deep green walls, antique mirrors, and warm wood finishes combine to create a cozy ambiance, illuminated by stunning chandeliers. Iconic artwork by Leonardo da Vinci decorates the walls, paying homage to the restaurant’s namesake.
Exceptional Cuisine from a Talented Chef
At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Andrea Albanese, whose Tuscan roots shine through in the menu. Each dish is crafted with seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques, ensuring an authentic Italian experience. Highlights include:
- Tuna Tartare with mango, soy, and sesame oil
- Beef Carpaccio finished with arugula and 36-month Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Burrata with tomato gazpacho and basil cream
The raw bar is a standout, featuring:
- Oysters with mignonette and cocktail sauce
- Caviar Service with traditional garnishes and blinis
A Feast for All Senses
Leonardo elevates the dining experience with tableside presentations, such as:
- Fettuccine alla Leonardo finished inside a wheel of Parmesan
- Whole Branzino, flambéed right before guests’ eyes
Entrees include prime cuts like New York Steak and Filet Mignon, along with flavorful Italian classics like Pollo al Limone, topped with delicate lemon sauce. Sweet endings include Tiramisu, Panna Cotta, and a Lemon Delight Cake inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
A Beverage Program to Complement Your Meal
The drink menu is as carefully curated as the food, featuring innovative cocktails such as:
- Hibiscus: A floral-forward martini with hibiscus-infused vodka and elderflower
- Passion Paradise: A tequila-based cocktail layered with passion fruit and warm spice
- Italian Old-Fashioned: A classic twist with pancetta-washed bourbon
In addition to these creative concoctions, Leonardo offers spritzes, zero-proof options, and an extensive wine list, highlighting notable regions across Italy.
Experience the Vibrancy of Late-Night Dining
Leonardo will open for dinner service Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., and Wednesday and Sunday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. As the clock strikes 10:30 p.m., the atmosphere transforms with deeper lighting, live music, and cabaret performances, making it the perfect spot for late-night gatherings.
Join the Dining Revolution at Leonardo
Located at 2000 Collins Ave., Suite 2, Miami Beach, FL 33139, Leonardo isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination for those seeking a full-sensory dining experience. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a hospitality leader, your feedback and thoughts are invaluable as we welcome this new chapter in Miami Beach’s culinary scene.
For reservations, visit OpenTable or explore more about Leonardo at leonardomiami.com.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
