Miami - October 07, 2009

Better Late

Maitardi Opens

Miami runs on Latin time (about half past eastern standard).

So it’s with some skepticism that we welcome the new Italian restaurant Maitardi, meaning “never late.”

Opening today in the old Brosia space, the low-key joint is from the folks behind Spris on Lincoln Road.

Expect tasty brick oven pizza (with a guilt-free whole-wheat option for the self-deluded), charcuterie, classic pastas (house-made spinach ravioli, lasagna), and risottos (porcini mushroom). The accessible wine list is broken down by price (from Twenty’s to Forty’s) with more than twenty options by the glass.

The owners preserved the charming patio and mosaic tile. And next week they begin lunch service — complete with free Wi-Fi. So feel free to check your e-mail while indulging in a boozy afternoon meal.

After all, there’s no rush.

Maitardi, 163 Northeast 39th Street, Design District (305-572-1400 or maitardimiami.com).

Photo: Courtesy of RV Photography