Caffe Abbracci — Restaurant in Coral Gables

Abbracci: Tradition That’s Lost Its Touch

Abbracci has long been a Coral Gables institution, but our recent Friday night visit left us wondering why. The restaurant’s layout feels like a patchwork of windowless rooms, each decorated in its own dated, dissonant style—our section cluttered with oddly lighted vintage glass. The space was crowded, noisy, and uncomfortably cold with the AC blasting, despite being packed with diners. Even the restrooms could use a serious refresh.

We started with wine and cocktails, but pours were skimpy and drinks watery. Starters disappointed: the Polenta and shrimp was tiny and bland, while the octopus in tapenade was so overcooked it crunched. The waiter might have warned us about the size of the starters.

Mains included the seafood risotto special, branzino, red snapper, and mushroom risotto. Portions were ample, but the quality wasn’t there. The fish dishes lacked character, and the risottos were just serviceable—no frills, no spark. Dessert wasn’t even tempting.

At over $400 for five, the bill might be standard for the Gables, but it overshot the quality of food, drink, and ambiance. Service was polite but could have been more attentive. Parking was a challenge.

There are plenty of Italian restaurants in Coral Gables that deliver fresher food, authentic flavors, and better value. Abbracci trades on history, not quality. Unless you’re chasing nostalgia, there are far better options nearby.

#CoralGablesDining #OverpricedEats...

Went here after we ditched our 2.5 hour reservation at Hillstone (no restaurant is good enough to wait that long). I enjoyed the fried calamari and their very fresh hot out-of-the-oven dinner rolls (my favorite so far from all restaurant-served breads). My sister’s boyfriend really enjoyed his Parmesan chicken and my sister regrettably didn’t get to enjoy her lobster ravioli since a miscommunication of sharing dishes led her to order a simple pasta dish instead. I enjoyed my sea bass although I wish the portions were bigger and my mom had her usual seafood pasta. Dessert was a disappointment for me since I was recommended to order the ice cream. The description seemed fun but it ended up being was vanilla- chocolate ice cream with a cherry center dipped in a chocolate shell. It was visually pleasing but the ice cream was not that great. Publix had smoother ice cream than this. Waitstaff was good and seating was only ok (due to the pandemic, many restaurants have seating on the sidewalk but I don’t enjoy eating next to valet parked cars and their corresponding car fumes. My sister ordered the nonna cake which ended up being similar to a key lime pie. She and her boyfriend enjoyed the tart dessert. Over all it was a pleasant experience. Might come back to try those lobster raviolis next time. By the way, they take reservations, that is how we were able to get seated within the 15 minutes it took to walk there...

I have been to this Italian restaurant several times over the years. Both before and after Nino Pernetti , may he rest in peace🙏 Opened in 1989 it developed into an institution among the culinary scene of Coral Gables and Miami and it certainly has its faithful clientele. Our group went on a Thursday evening to celebrate a bday. We were seated at a table in the main dining room . Unfortunately the team taking care of us was rather semi- attentive , not very friendly and didn't make us really feel welcome. When asked for the beer selection the waiter mentioned Coors Light. They didn't have it after all. We ordered more rolls and received the Italian bread sticks instead. Asked for rolls again and finally got them. To be honest we had a constant tap water supply. All the dishes tasted good but weren't exceptional. Bc of the bday we got a Napoleon dessert on the house. Nice touch. We payed and nobody really cared when we left the place. Overall the dinning experience was rather average. People expect more for the high prices they have to pay. In my opinion the restaurant is very old school and in need of an up-grade. The staff could be more friendly. Valet...