Cipriani Downtown Miami
Giuseppe Cipriani never could have imagined the success that opening Harry’s Bar on a small street in Venice in 1931 would achieve. Seventy years later, it was named a national historic landmark by the Italian government, and now Cipriani’s great-grandsons Maggio and Ignazio Cipriani have opened the family’s 20th outpost—Cipriani Downtown Miami—in Brickell.
“Many of our European and New York-based clients enjoy spending time here. It just seemed natural to offer service and cuisine to new and existing customers in Miami,” Maggio says. With bayside views and waterfront seating, what better place to enjoy a white peach puree and prosecco Bellini than where the drink was invented (by Giuseppe himself) in 1948?
Homeland classics such as carpaccio alla Cipriani, prosciutto di Parma with melon, and risotto alla primavera feature “simple, fresh ingredients, not overwhelmed by heavy sauces,” Ignazio says.
Lunch and dinner are served seven days a week (with a weekend brunch in the works) to the tunes of Sinatra (early in the day) and live DJ beats (later, as the mood picks up). The ambience is clearly inspired; with Venetian flooring, walnut wood, polished steel, blue velvet banquettes, and white leather chairs, it’s easy to forget you’re not in Venice.
The original Cipriani saw Humphrey Bogart and Ernest Hemingway waltz through its doors, so don’t be surprised if the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio frequent this hot spot: The Ciprianis’ world travels have garnered them an unprecedented celebrity following. 465 Brickell Ave., Miami, 786-329-4090