Led by chefs with serious Michelin-starred backgrounds, the restaurant is helmed by Chilean chef Fernanda Fuentes-Cárdenas and Italian chef Andrea Bernardi — who run the Michelin-starred NUB in Spain's Canary Islands — alongside executive chef Marco Rama, formerly of Italy's Michelin-starred Andreina.
The "Spaghetto Freddo" is a chilled take on classic flavors, combining tomatoes, tuna, anchovy extract, and bottarga for a bold, umami-rich bite.
Photo by Lemon Pop
Italian Classics with a Refined Twist
Novatore takes a fresh spin on Italian classics, leaning into smokey flavors and refined techniques. Here, the Roman-style carbonara and cacio e pepe get an extra hit of depth from being finished over charcoal. The standout aragosta e midollo pairs lightly grilled lobster tartare with rich bone marrow, cut through with tropical notes of passionfruit and mango.The risotto verde combines chard, spinach, and chicory with venison, Kefir, and mushrooms, while the "Agnolo" features lamb wrapped into a ring and stuffed with prunes, lard, and pistachio crumble, paired with roasted mushrooms.
And if you're all about pistachios, the "100x100 Pistacchio" dessert is a must-try — layering pistachio mousse, cream, ice cream, and a liquid pistachio center into one decadent bite. The drinks scene is still in the works, with a cocktail program expected to launch soon, but wine lovers can already dive into a hefty 130-label selection curated by sommelier Leonardo Asensos.
Novatore's intimate dining room, framed by Roman-style columns and a striking wine cellar, blends classic elegance with warm, refined details.
Photo by Lemon Pop
A Wine Cellar, Earthy Tones, and Fine Dining All in One
Novatore's 45-seat dining room is anchored by a striking wine cellar framed by Roman-style columns and lined with bottles inside and out. High ceilings, limewashed walls, and natural walnut furniture create a refined backdrop, while soft lighting and intricate moldings add warmth. Earthy, neutral tones contrast with crisp white tablecloths and draped textiles, reinforcing the restaurant's classic fine-dining atmosphere.The restaurant's name is a tribute to chef Bernardi's grandfather, Novatore, who believed good food and good company were life's greatest luxuries. "My grandfather, Novatore, believed that a good table, good company, and good food were more valuable than anything," says chef Andrea Bernardi. "At Novatore, we carry forward his legacy by creating an experience that blends Italian heritage with modern techniques, where every dish is crafted with the same passion and authenticity that shaped my upbringing."
Novatore is still getting settled, with plans for an outdoor patio and cocktail service coming soon. For now, it's all about intimate dining, bold Italian flavors, and a killer wine selection — tucked into a quiet pocket of Wynwood. Novotore is serving dinner Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday. For now, weekend lunch is available on Saturday and Sunday.
Novatore Cucina & Bar. 2700 N. Miami Ave., Miami; 754-286-2081; novatorecucinaebar.com.
