I ate tons of amazing authentic Cuban food during my vacation to Fort Lauderdale, Miami and South Beach a few weeks ago (empanadas for dayyyysyssss). However, my favorite restaurant was surprisingly Italian – Spazio, with an ocean view in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

There are tons of restaurants located along Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., many touristy but some surprisingly delicious and food-centered. When you’re on vacation (or even on a weekday after a stressful day at work), there’s just no better feeling than enjoying an ice cold drink sitting outside in the sunshine and cool breeze with a view of the ocean. You can do that at Spazio AND enjoy delicious Italian food.

We started with giant margaritas (2 for 1 every day 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.) which were delicious – strong but fruity. After this massive drink, I was barely hungry, but I couldn’t pass up the delicious-smelling pasta.

I ordered the orecchiette with garlic and broccolini. This dish usually comes with Italian sausage, but I was able to order it without. They even put in extra broccolini for me!

I used to be a major fan of Cecconi’s in West Hollywood, where the orecchiette was to die for. Since leaving the area, I’ve been greatly lacking in orecchiette and broccolini dishes, and this particular dish warmed my heart.

I can’t wait to go back to South Florida – for many reasons, but one of them being the food with a view.