Il Bambino

This tiny Italian spot in a Bird Road strip mall has been around since the ‘80s, and it’s possible the giant bowl of candy at the bar has been too. But the dining room is modern, with its black ceiling, bouncy booths, and slate walls. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for large portions of classic pastas. Our favorite is the beef lasagna. It has thick layers of al dente pasta and the ideal ratio of beef, ricotta, and alfredo. The top layer is completely covered in even more melted cheese, and if you finish it in one sitting you should consider trying out for a competitive eating contest. If lasagna isn’t your thing, create your own pasta bowl by choosing a pasta, sauce, and toppings. Prices are pretty reasonable. Those bowls start at $13, and the lasagna is just under $16. It's not the fanciest Italian restaurant in Miami. But it's a casual and comfortable spot that’s great for a night out with the family.

photo credit: Cleveland Jennings