La Sponda: A Culinary Ode to Italy Opens in Coconut Grove

A New Chapter in Culinary Excellence

As the sun sets over the shimmering waters of Coconut Grove, a new culinary gem is poised to make its debut. La Sponda, the latest venture from the esteemed Gioia Hospitality Group, is set to open its doors this September at the luxurious Vita at Grove Isle. Building upon the remarkable success of their flagship steakhouse, Daniel’s Miami, which has recently garnered accolades as Florida’s top steakhouse, La Sponda ushers in a new Italian dining experience that is deeply personal and steeped in tradition.

Heritage Meets Hospitality

Founded by Thomas and Kassidy Angelo, the hospitality group has crafted an identity rooted in exceptional cuisine and genuine warmth. La Sponda is not just a restaurant; it encapsulates the rich tapestry of the Angelo family’s Italian heritage, particularly their connections to Puglia. Thomas Angelo reflects on his childhood memories spent in southern Italy, where the kitchen served as a gathering place for family and tradition. This heartfelt connection informs the culinary vision of La Sponda, promising guests an experience reminiscent of the warmth and comfort of an Italian home.

A Culinary Journey Through Italy

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Danny Ganem, who has collaborated closely with the Angelas to bring their vision to life. La Sponda promises an evolving menu that highlights handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and an impressive selection of wines. Each dish tells a story, drawing inspiration from the diverse regions of Italy. Signature offerings include:

• Spaghetti alla Chitarra al Tartufo: Featuring Burgundy truffles, cultured butter, and Parmigiano espuma.
• Paccheri al Campagnolo: A delightful combination of Aquanaria Branzino, Datterini tomatoes, capers, and olives.
• Branzino alla Vernaccia: A whole fish prepared with Taggiasca olives, potatoes, tomatoes, and fresh basil.
• L’Grow Ranch Wagyu Bistecca Fiorentina: An exquisite Wagyu porterhouse finished with rosemary and Gioia olive oil.

This commitment to quality extends to the restaurant’s wine program, curated by Wine & Beverage Director Daniel Bishop. Guests can look forward to a globally influenced collection that celebrates the Angelo family’s Italian roots while incorporating esteemed selections from France, Spain, and California. The list features benchmark reds such as Barolo and Barbaresco, as well as bright, mineral-driven whites that evoke the coastal allure of the Amalfi Coast.

An Elegant Design Interpretation

Designed by the renowned Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, La Sponda beautifully marries European elegance with the laid-back sophistication that Coconut Grove is known for. The restaurant’s interior exudes a sense of intimacy, with crisp white tablecloths, hand-painted architectural details, and a baby grand piano setting the scene for a memorable dining experience. Every detail, from handcrafted furnishings to artisan finishes, has been meticulously selected, many sourced directly from Italy.

Guests can also appreciate subtle nods to Coconut Grove’s character, such as custom lamps hand-painted by a local artist, depicting illustrations inspired by the area’s iconic peacocks. With seating for approximately 120, La Sponda is designed to feel both grand and inviting, embodying the essence of refined luxury paired with the warmth of familial hospitality.

The Essence of Italian Hospitality

La Sponda is set to redefine the dining landscape of Coconut Grove. The dedicated front-of-house team will ensure that service is at the heart of the experience, embodying the Italian tradition of treating each meal as a special occasion. Guests can expect a warm and attentive atmosphere where every visitor is welcomed as family.

The restaurant will initially be open for dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, with reservations available through Resy. As the doors swing open, La Sponda promises to become not just a restaurant but a beloved destination that enhances the vibrant lifestyle at Vita and revitalizes the storied legacy of Grove Isle.

Editorial note: This article was created by A Bit Lavish Miami’s Magazine as an original editorial reinterpretation based on publicly available reporting. Original source: profilemiami.com. Read the original article here: https://profilemiami.com/miamirealestate/2026/9/15/gioia-hospitality-group-set-to-open-la-sponda-on-september-19-at-cmc-groups-vita-at-grove-isle.
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