During our latest trip to Surfside, Doris and I had the pleasure of attending a special event hosted by Access at the Bal Harbour Shops. Afterward, we decided to take a leisurely stroll down Harding Avenue (A1A), searching for a cozy spot to enjoy a late dinner. As we walked, we almost gave up and returned to the car, but as we crossed onto 95th Street, something caught our eye — Café Ragazzi.
The charming building immediately exuded the vibe of an authentic Italian Trattoria, and we couldn’t resist stepping inside. With a slight chill in the air, we opted for a table indoors, and from the moment we entered, we were greeted by a romantic atmosphere, setting the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable cenetta (romantic dinner).
Impeccable Service and a Welcoming Atmosphere
As soon as we were seated, our friendly waiter, Domenico, offered us our choice of water. We decided to go with a bottle of Pana. Soon after, Domenico brought over freshly baked bread and walked us through the specials of the day, each described in such mouth-watering detail that we couldn’t wait to start.
Appetizer Perfection: Calamari e Zucchini Fritti
For our appetizer, we shared the Calamari e Zucchini Fritti — lightly fried squid and zucchini served with a zesty Fra Diavolo sauce. The calamari was perfectly tender, and the zucchini melted in your mouth. The golden-brown breading was crispy without being overly greasy, and the seasoning was just right — a true testament to the chef’s skill.
Authentic Italian Entrées with Unmatched Flavor
For my entrée, I chose the classic Pollo Francese, a dish close to my heart. Made with boneless chicken breast dipped in egg and sautéed in a delicate white wine and butter sauce, it was everything I hoped for. As a former chef, I was impressed — it tasted exactly like how I would prepare it myself. Kudos to the talented chef in the kitchen!
Doris opted for the Rigatoni della Nonna, a delightful dish made with tube-shaped rigatoni pasta in a light olive oil sauce, paired with garlic, diced eggplant, fresh tomatoes, basil, and onions. The balance of flavors was perfect, and it was clear that the ingredients were of the highest quality.
An Italian Dining Experience Like No Other
The food at Café Ragazzi was superb, with each dish expertly prepared, seasoned, and presented. It’s the kind of dining experience you’d expect at a top-tier Italian restaurant. The front-of-house staff worked seamlessly together, supporting each other and ensuring a flawless dining experience. It’s rare to see such teamwork in restaurants, and it was a welcome sight.
An Extensive Wine Selection
Though we didn’t indulge in wine this time, the wine list at Café Ragazzi is worth noting. Their selection is one of the most diverse and well-curated I’ve seen in quite a while, offering a range of options to complement any meal. Whether you prefer reds, whites, or even something sparkling, they have something for every palate.
Dessert to Remember: The Best Tiramisu in Surfside
For dessert, we couldn’t pass up the Tiramisu. It was, without a doubt, one of the best versions we’ve ever had — creamy, indulgent, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of coffee flavor. If you’re a fan of this Italian classic, you won’t want to miss it. In fact, we’d rank it in the top five Tiramisu’s we’ve ever tasted.
Why You Need to Visit Café Ragazzi in Surfside
If you’re in Surfside or searching for a truly exceptional Italian restaurant in the Miami area, make sure to visit Café Ragazzi. From the romantic ambiance to the exceptional food and outstanding service, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable meal. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just a cozy dinner for two, this charming trattoria will not disappoint.
And when you do visit, be sure to tell them that SoFloDining sent you for a little extra special treatment!
Final Thoughts
In every sense, Café Ragazzi in Surfside offers an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you step inside to the last bite of dessert, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy Italian eatery straight out of Rome or Florence. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, this restaurant should definitely be on your list.
Tips & Notes:
· Parking Lot directly behind the restaurant with an entrance in the rear.
· Make sure to take a peek into the open kitchen.
· Make reservations in advance.
· Check out the incredible wine selection.
Address: 9500 Harding Ave, Surfside, FL 33154
Web: Caferagazzimiami.com
