As the story goes, the New York-based hospitality group behind such renowned Italian restaurants as Marea and Ai Fiori spent the better part of a decade looking for the perfect spot in which to launch its Osteria Morini brand in Miami.

After recently opening the doors to Osteria Morini Miami Beach, Altamarea Group will tell you it was worth the wait.

The sophisticated 3,700-square-foot space inside the Kimpton Palomar South Beach (1750 Alton Road) seamlessly balances its Soho neighborhood feel with an upscale Miami vibe, all while delivering customers menu favorites from Northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. Signature pastas include cappelletti (truffled ricotta ravioli with prosciutto) and tagliatelle (Bolognese ragout and Parmigiano); there’s also grilled meats and fish, along with shared plates and antipasti dishes.

On the spirits side, beverage manager Shanna Beattie has put together a cocktail program headlined by Morini’s signature Negronis—like the Classico (pictured, right; Bombay dry gin, Campari and Cinzano 1757). Miami-inspired creations include the Passione Arrabbiata (Espolon Blanco, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, passion fruit, lime and chili). Click here for the full menu.