meat and potatoes

INTRODUCING OCIO ITALIAN RESTAURANT: AN INTIMATE HIDEAWAY TUCKED INSIDE DORAL

Ocio’ in Spanish, literally translates to leisure. Doral is excited to welcome a new retreat for visitors to truly let go and escape their undesirable realities. Inside the restaurant are eclectic and fun knick-knacks to distract diners from the outside world. Other decor highlights include hanging bird nests a top table settings and tropical lights overlooking the bar.

President of Cargo Zone, Carlos Pieschacon has had his business in Doral for nine years but, wanted to develop a treasure for locals and working professionals to unwind in a comfortable but, cool environment. “I wanted to create a destination for people to forget about their troubles and outside world in a fun and welcoming atmosphere where people can relax with simple, sincere food and great wine.”

Open for lunch and dinner, the heart of Ocio lies in Italian Cuisine however, there are other Miami influences with some international touches. Starters include Fried Mozarella served with homemade marinara sauce ($8). Filet Mignon Capraccio topped with an arugula salad ($11) or a Char-grilled Octopus marinated in citrus ($13). Pasta dishes range from simple to extravagant with selections like Spaghetti Pomodoro in a housemade chili, tomato sauce ($12), Lobster Ravioli in a Chardonnay cream sauce ($18), Linguine Futti Di Mare mixed with clams, mussels, calamari, shrimp, toasted garlic, white wine, parsley and butter ($23) and a classic Fettuccine Carbonara tossed with pancetta, sweet peas, caramelized onions, Parmesan and black pepper ($14).

Other impressionable entrees include a mouthwatering Beef Lasagna layered with bolognese, bechemal, mozarella and provolone cheese and basil ($14), a hearty Ossobucco Di Vitteo which is a slow-braised veal shank with vegetables and white wine served over fettucine and a decadent Risotto filled with fresh spinach, tomato and shrimp topped with truffle oil ($23). For the ultimate pairing, the wine menu at Ocio features a diverse list from Argentina, Chile, Spain, Italy, France and the US with bottles starting as low as $25.

As for the grand finale, desserts range from a Floridian Guava Tart served with vanilla ice cream ($5) to a Cheesecake served along a raspberry coulis ($7). Kids can also join in on the fun with a special menu designed for the little ones with personal pastas, chicken fingers and more!

Ocio is open daily for lunch and dinner located at 3399 NW 72nd Avenue, Doral, FL 33122. Reservations can be made by calling 786-360-4468 or online at Open Table. For more information visit their Facebook Page or follow Ocio_Miami on Twitter and Instagram