Miami.News recently had the pleasure of visiting The Amalfi Llama and sitting down with the owner, Javier Banchero.  Located in the Esplanade at Aventura Mall, The Amalfi Llama offers a unique and vibrant dining experience that fuses the cuisines of Italy and Argentina. But it’s not just the food, atmosphere, and service that separate The Amalfi Llama from other restaurants.  According to Javier, The Amalfi Llama is the favorite restaurant of his friend, Leo Messi and the Messi family.  This fact alone brings many people to the restaurant, especially to sit at the Messi Family’s booth which is marked with a special plaque.  But having visited many restaurants in South Florida, it is our opinion that this designation as a favorite dining destination is warranted.  Here is why:

Ambiance:

The Amalfi Llama is beautiful.  It has many rooms and atmospheres in each area and has a vibrant, high-end setting.  The atmosphere isn’t stiff, and you will definitely feel welcome and comfortable.  The décor is modern with artistic touches that reflect both Italian and Patagonian influences. Javier explained that the name of the restaurant is an homage to both cultures with “Amalfi” representing his favorite area of Italy and “Llama” representing Argentina.  The dining areas both indoor and out are beautiful and the bar is very large and inviting.  Whatever area you choose to dine in you can be sure that you will have a great setting.  The noise level is also perfect with soft music playing in the background, and despite all the tables with guests enjoying their evenings together, you will be able to easily have an intimate conversation.

Service:

The service at Amalfi Llama is one of the highlights.  Finding quality service at restaurants in Miami is often challenging, but this is an area where Javier has paid special attention, and it shows.  He said he tries hard to know his staff very well and make them feel at home at The Amalfi Llama like they are part of his family.  The staff was very friendly and attentive and made incredible recommendations.

Food:

The menu at Amalfi Llama is where the restaurant truly shines.  The wine selection is excellent, and the lychee martini is a must-try (Javier’s recommended cocktail is the Cocoa Llama).  If you’re a meat lover you will really enjoy the short rib empanadas with chimichurri and Leo Messi’s favorite dish, the Milamessi (which is also Javier’s top food recommendation).  If you’re a discerning steak-lover, you MUST try the filet mignon – in the opinion of Miami.News it’s the best item on the menu and one of the best steaks in all of South Florida.  The steak alone is a reason to visit.  Of course, Leo Messi’s favorite dish is also delicious (and very large), but so was everything else we tried, including the truffle tagliatelle and tuna tartar.  To try the most items on the menu be sure to visit during Miami Spice 2024 (Aug 1 – Sept 30).  Visit their website at https://www.amalfillama.com to learn more and see the entire Miami Spice menu.  And don't forget dessert.  The chocolate sin cake and fire-roasted cheesecake were both delicious and limoncello was the perfect cap on an excellent dining experience.

Price:

The Amalfi Llama is a rare restaurant where the prices on the menu match the value of the experience. This is a place where you can expect a memorable dining experience that goes beyond just the meal, making it well worth a visit.  For a limited time, the Miami Spice 2024 menu will give you the best value at $60 per person for three courses.

Summary:  5/5 Stars – Must Try!

The Amalfi Llama is a must try.  And frankly a new favorite.  They opened in January of 2024 and are already a standout restaurant.  It’s easy to be drawn into the flash of its association with Leo Messi, but it’s just a flat-out great restaurant.  It’s great for dates, family outings, birthdays, special events, and even business dinners.  It’s a place that you’ll go back to again.  We know we will.  Until then, we’ll be researching where to find quebracho wood.  Javier said he imports it from Argentina and it’s one of the secrets to the amazing flavors.  After you visit, you’ll probably look it up, too.