You’ll feel like you’re in Italy at this Miami Beach gem. Celebrating it’s 27th anniversary, Cafe Prima Pasta continues to be a monumental feat in the culinary industry in South Florida.
"It seems like yesterday, it's crazy. I feel great and I never thought about having this restaurant for 27 years," said Gerry Cea, owner of Cafe Prima Pasta.
Gerry opened the eatery when he was just 26, using his life savings of $15,000. He never knew his restaurant would flourish into a North Beach neighborhood gem.
"The reason why we got into the restaurant business was because my mother and father always cooked in the house. And my grandparents taught my parents," added Cea.
Now he’s honoring his humble beginnings with flashback to the 90’s prices. Bar bites, including some of their famous dishes like the Fiocchi Rapera with pears, are $12.95 until June.
"Pears inside, pears in the sauce, proscuitto, and cheese. Delicious, sweet and cheesy. Two things that I love," said Melissa Marrero about the Fiocchi Rapera dish.
Countless celebrities have dined at the restaurant including Michael Caine, Jessica Simpson, Hulk Hogan, and John Travolta.
"John Travolta always loved the Eggplant Parmesan. Michael Jordan showed up one day and he tried the Chicken Parmesan and he loved it. Then, other players started coming, from Miami Heat and other teams," said Cea.
It’s no surprise it’s a celebrity favorite, the restaurant has consistently served authentic Italian dishes for almost three decades.
"Prima Pasta is the kind of place you can come to celebrate your birthday or maybe make a wish or fall in love. The atmosphere is really cool and romantic. And, the food and service that is something very important in Prima Pasta," added Cea.
Cafe Prima Pasta is located at 414 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141 and is open everyday for dinner. For more information head to cafeprimapasta.com
