Impepata Di Cozze Alla Marinara $13. Steamed Mussels with white wine, garlic, black pepper and house-Made Marinara

I have heard about QUATTRO in several occasions and it was the time to pay tribute to this Italian classic down on Lincoln Road, South Beach.

I arrived at QUATTRO and walked straight down to the bar section, this is where for some reason I always feel comfortable when I am alone (well, not entirely alone, I have my MAC with me at all times packed with all my virtual friends).

At the bar is where servers, floor managers and hostess hang out and I like to hear what they say behind the scene. It’s like hearing all of the gossip from a dysfunctional family because one thing is apparent about restaurants is that those who work in that environment need to bitch on a regular basis, it’s just the nature of the oficio (can’t remember how to say that word in English)

I sat at the bar and ordered the best glass of champagne on the menu - just to refresh from the three blocks I walked to get down here. I know, I am spoiled.

I was greeted with a friendly smile, this is a good sign around here in SoBe because they usually don’t come that often, she quickly acknowledges my presence, she is professional, knowledgeable of the menu, and I can tell she will put a thought or two to give a recommendation. I asked what dish is her favorite on the menu and she replied “mussels come with a great broth that reminds me of how my mother used to prepare soup in Guatemala, so I said “then that’s exactly what I’m having”

Sure, the mussels were okay (not her fault she's not the cook) at QUATTRO and the focaccia that comes with them was nothing out of the ordinary – I don’t think I will be back here to have them again any time soon.

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana

1014 Lincoln Road

Miami Beach, FL 33139-2502

(305) 531-4833

quattromiami.com