Boia De

One of Miami's top spots for Italian-ish cuisine, Michelin-starred Boia De promises exceptional food in a fun-loving, intimate setting. The name comes from a Tuscan slang for “oh my god!”—which explains the exclamation-point motif seen in the pink neon sign above the entrance and on the forest-green wallpaper inside. It also might anticipate what you say after tasting some of the dishes on the menus (created by co-owners/chefs Alex Meyer and Luciana Giangrandi).

Highlights during a recent visit included roasted cauliflower served on top taleggio and anchovy sauce, zucchini-stuffed pasta with squash blossoms, and a saffron tagliatelle served pomodoro-style.

The restaurant draws a relaxed crowd of foodies who may or may not feel the need to dress up for a Michelin dining experience. People are here—which by the way, means a strip mall in Buena Vista—for the excellent, inventive food and drinks, not for the "see and be seen" vibes typical of a Miami hot spot.