Vero Italian Restaurant in Downtown Miami is considered a hidden gem among Miami natives. Tucked away among the hustle and bustle of First Street, this go-to Italian eatery offers a laid back, rustic atmosphere with wine barrel tables, outdoor seating, and wood panel covered walls whimsically decorated with pasta machines.

The casual ambiance isn’t indicative of a bland menu: fresh pastas, original pizzas, and an extensive wine list bring diners in for lunch and dinner. The menu includes appetizers like fresh burrata and bruschetta, and the Diavolo Pizza is a spicy patron favorite.

Vero also offers free Wi-Fi for those looking to connect while they dine, and takeout for those on the go. Vero is open from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays, until 10 p.m. Thursdays through Fridays, from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.

Vero Italian Restaurant
90 SE First Street
Miami, FL 33131
(305) 533-1357
www.veroitalian.com

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr loustejskal

Located within the InterContinental Miami hotel, Toro Toro offers a uniquely chic and romantic atmosphere with low lighting and large communal-style tables. Upscale cocktails and an abbreviated menu are available at the bar. In the main dining room, a full menu of pan-Latin tapas and steakhouse favorites are brought out at a leisurely pace ideal for enjoying company and conversation. If you have a sweet tooth, the La Bomba is a crowd favorite with a unique presentation!

Toro Toro offers a weekday happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the $45 Sunday brunch with unlimited Bloody Marys and mimosas was voted best brunch by the Miami New Times. Business casual attire is required if you’d like to check out this swanky spot. Don't miss the weeknight and holiday specials, like ladies’ night and the Easter Bunny brunch!

Toro Toro Restaurant
InterContinental Miami
100 Chopin Plaza
Miami, FL 33131
(305) 372-4710
www.torotoromiami.com

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr blackmachismo

If you’re looking for a delicious way to beat the Miami heat, duck in to Bianco Gelato for a tasty, frozen treat. This popular local gelato shop offers authentic Italian gelato that has a richer consistency and denser flavor than traditional ice cream, so you’ll only need a small scoop to really get the full experience. You’ll find tried-and-true flavors like chocolate, vanilla and stracciatella, as well as more unique options like fig, hazelnut and coconut.

Each type of gelato is made with organic, non-GMO ingredients that you don’t have to feel guilty about eating, and there are even sugar-free and non-dairy, vegan options for those with restricted diets. Spice up your gelato with a Bianco cup topped with homemade whipped cream and cookie crumbles, or grab a frozen pop if you’re looking for a handheld treat. With a hip, stylish décor and friendly service, there’s a lot to enjoy at Bianco Gelato.

Bianco Gelato
3137 Commodore Plaza
Miami, FL 33133
(786) 717-5565
www.biancogelato.com

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr SanguineSeas