La Scala in the key is a VERY delicious hole in the wall....what initially caught my attention was their salmon pasta! I wouldn't say this restaurant is particularly authentic but it definitely is delicious and the service was remarkable. We were starving and excited when we arrived so unfortunately phone did not eat first on this one but here's what we got: Calamari: asked for it extra crispy and they delivered exactly that. Perfectly breaded and crispy and not tough or chewy. Fettuccine al salmon: This was the star of the night for me. A rich pink sauce with generous chunks of tender salmon I mean they were not shy there. A hint of sweetness with the green peas ofc. Snapper Livornese - perfectly cooked and prepared well. Fish was moist and soft with very flavorful olives that balanced everything out beautifully. They did not offer a printed dessert menu so I'm no sure if it rotates but the options we tried were great! Chocolate mousse 10/10 -- not too rich and perfectly airy Creme Brûlée 10/10 -- perfectly caramelized top, always a classic Service: 10/10 -- the owner was incredibly kind and accommodating, you can tel they truly care about their guests' experience. Food: 9.5/10 - everything we tried hit the spot Ambiance: 8/10 (Small, cozy, and intimate, we went a little earlier in the night but seems to fill up later in the evening) If you're looking for a place that feels intimate and low-key, where you can relax and savor your food without any rush, La Scala is it! Great for date nights, quiet dinners, or just treating yourself to a comforting and flavor packed meal. read more

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This is a hidden gem! The food was all incredible! Service was excellent and we would be back again and again if we lived here! Just visited on vacation and soooo glad we did! read more

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Very very good Western Hemisphere Italian. I think the house is Venezuelan and these are first rate Venezuelan Italian recipes. But if I am wrong on this point, this could be Argentinian Italian, or even U.S. Italian. North and South American Italian menus and recipes are similar with slight differences in the details. The menu and execution remind me of other Venezuelan Italian restaurants I have been to. * * * That said, Key Biscayne residents love the place. This includes both Yelpers and the people I know in Key Biscayne who love to come here. Tomatoes are better in Italy and South America - so that will always weigh down a Florida Italian place. But there is a lot to like here. * * * My two personal favorites are: a) The pesto and the bread that goes with it. There is a lot of boring pointless pesto in the United States. This pesto has serious interest. the bread is heavy enough to be substantial but not so heavy as to sit in your stomach like a lump afterwards. I could have just had pesto and bread for dinner and been perfectly happy. b) They do a totally totally superior tiramisu. The star of the show is rum and they use a first rate rum. Plus the tiramisu serving is nice and big. Samuel C is a growing boy ... and likes to get lots of dessert. * * * Everything else was solid enough. There were no novelty dishes to make me go nuts over some cook innovating in the kitchen. There was not the insane execution decadence of a Southern Philadelphia Red Sauce Italian place where four generations of meatball making or lasagna making have produced legendary dishes that have stood the test of generations. But what they have here is very nice. I would be happy to come back. * * * Give me sweet and creamy tiramisu with enough rum to turn me into a drunken cheerleader And I will get my pom poms and my Yelp Varsity sweater ... And tell everyone on the planet how your dessert made me happy. * * * SIS BOOM BAH RAH RAH RAH. GO TIRAMISU !!! (And go pesto too while you are at it.) read more

We just spent a week in Key Biscayne and La Scalla was one of the best meals we had. We were there on a very busy New Years Eve. The restaurant is small, and it was full, with people waiting for tables, but the waiters and the owner were very pleasant and we never felt rushed. The food was amazing - we had Caesar salads, Shrimp Fra Diavolo, Red Snapper, and Filet mignon- and everyone LOVED their food. We will definitely go back next time we visit. The owner was incredibly nice, and friendly. It seemed he knew everyone in the restaurant but us, and he made a real effort to talk to us and make us feel very comfortable. read more

A True Taste of Italy in Key Biscayne - La Scala Italian Restaurant As a first-generation Calabrese family, food is not just a meal--it's a celebration of our heritage, a tradition we cherish and carry with us wherever we go. For the past 40 years my wife has been coming, then 30 years ago we starting with our family and Key Biscayne has been our "home away from home," and throughout that time, (after Vito's) La Scala has been a beacon of authentic Italian hospitality and flavors. Every time we step foot inside, we are transported to the heart of Italy, and it's no surprise why we return time and time again. From the moment we walk in, the warm, welcoming atmosphere of La Scala feels like family. The team here is exceptional--friendly, attentive, and always going above and beyond to make you feel like part of the La Scala family...it's clear the staff truly cares about making each dining experience memorable. Now, the food... che bellezza! From the house-made pastas to the freshest seafood, every dish is crafted with a passion that only true Italians can understand. The flavors are bold and authentic, just like Nonna used to make. Whether it's the rich, velvety gnocchi or the perfectly seared branzino, each bite reminds us of the meals shared around the table with loved ones back in Calabria. What sets La Scala apart is the consistency--the kitchen never falters. Each visit, whether for a simple lunch or a special family gathering, the quality is flawless. Our favorite dishes? It's hard to choose just one, but we can never resist the lasagna, which is a masterpiece, and the decadent tiramisu for dessert. The wine list is also thoughtfully curated, with the perfect Italian selections to complement any dish. La Scala has been a part of our Key Biscayne experience since it took over, and our family is grateful for it. Over the years, it's become more than just a restaurant--it's a place where we create memories, share laughter, and connect with our roots. If you're looking for an authentic Italian dining experience on the island, La Scala is not to be missed. The team here serves more than food--they serve a slice of Italy, and for that, we are forever grateful. Grazie mille to everyone at La Scala for making every meal a true celebration of family, culture, and incredible Italian cuisine. We can't wait to return! read more

Very delicious meal! By far the nicest waiters in Key Biscayne. The olive oil is absolutely delicious if you love pesto. I recommend the Seafood Risotto, Fettuccine Alfredo or the Lasagna. We werent too fond of the Bolognese or the Caesar. read more

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I had dinner with friends and had a great time.....atmosphere was great, service was what anyone would want, and the food was awesome! Very pleasant restaurant that is somewhat hidden. I truly enjoyed my evening and will definitely go back! read more

This is outstanding Italian/Sicilian cuisine. We had a fantastic meal that would have done our Italian relatives proud Great service, and we enjoyed a good bottle of wine to boot. Excellent cannoli highly recommended I would suggest making a reservation. read more

The focaccia was too dry, the pesto was delicious. The salmon carpaccio lacked on the passion fruit dressing (needs more passion). What made up for it was the next 3 dishes. The lobster ravioli was full of lobster and shrimp. The snapper piccata was the best snapper I ever had. It was prepared super moist with an egg wash. The tiramisu was a delight. read more

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Food was decent but lacking some flavor, small space and cramped. Servers were extremely nice and attentive.

This is our second visit, and just as impressive. The ambiance is not the best, it is a relatively small restaurant, and not necessarily the most up to date decor. But, if good food is what you are after, this is the place. Every dish was exquisitely prepared. Very flavorful, but not over the top. Portions are generous. Wine is reasonably priced. We will be back- it really is excellent. read more

AMAZING!! Chandra is the best guy. Food is amazing and service exceptional. Everything is fresh and fabulous.

Wonderful place, cozy, small, but perfect if you want a delicious Italian dinner, in a relaxed atmosphere with an impeccable service like we used to see in every fine dining establishment in south Florida in the 80's. Great wine selection, all the Italian classics on the menu served very professionally by the owner and his staff. It fells like going home to have your palate pampered and your soul hugged in a warm and friendly embrace. No wonder all the islanders think of it as their personal dining room. Call and reserve during the week if you can, this is a well hidden gem although very popular . Highly recommended read more

Very authentic and traditional. Good Italian food. Would recommend. Good to have in key biscayne.

What a fantastic find! And so funny-- on previous trips I had been to this strip mall and gone to the Subway next door (yes it's in a strip mall like that so this will help you find it!) tons of times on the way to the beaches....anyway, my husband picked this out via Yelp and I'm so glad we came here -- it's just lovely. A charming seemingly (my observation, not sure if I'm correct) family run restaurant with a packed house every time they are open. The food was spectacular. And the ambience is cozy and even though the place gets full it's not LOUD and obnoxious. You kind of feel like you are going to a place where most of the people here are coming here every week, you know what I mean? I had the bolognese and it was to die for. I can't recall what my husband ordered -- I think maybe the Osso Bucco - regardless-- everything was amazing and we'll be back every time we are in town! Highly recommend. Very romantic. read more

The food is great, the service is wonderful. Always nice to see the owner there and I love the place, it's warm and cozy.

Nice little restaurant in Key Biscayne that gives you the sense of not being in USA but in Italy... The food and atmosphere are great but don't forget to make a reservation... read more

Amazing! Key Biscayne must try!! Thanks for taking care of us and our large party. The food was Amazing!!

La Scalas Italian restaurant is the perfect spot to dine. They started us off with bread and pesto dip. We chose the Salmon Carpaccio and Caprese Salad for our appetizers. For dinner we split Scallopine Maria Pia with vegetables and Chicken Marsala with garlic pasta. For dessert we picked Strawberry Zabaglione and a Cannoli for the walk home. Our waiter was super friendly and made us feel at home. Do not hesitate-- book you're reservation today!! Us Philadelphia folks will definitely be back when we visit Key Biscayne!! read more

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What a gem! Atmosphere. Food quality. Service. You name it, they have it. An Italian gem hidden in South Florida.

Wow. Incredible service from start to finish. My wife and I arrived with a reservation and they were packed as it's such a small but fantastic restaurant. We were seated outside to wait for an open table inside but the entire group of employees made it worth the wait. We started with burrata and a fried mozzarella special for appetizers which were both delicious. The entrees were also incredible. Chicken parm and chicken fettuccini. Both were to die for. Didn't leave any room for dessert but that's okay because the ambiance and service were everything we could ask for and more! read more

We had a lovely meal here with our family which included 2 toddlers. People around us were older and more dressed up. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, they even went to borrow a extra high chair from a restaurant down the lane. We thoroughly enjoyed the food. It tasted very home made. Not oily or too salty. Would definitely recommend going back! It came across as a charming family ran restaurant. read more

Ate here a few months back and still thinking about their fried mozzarella. I challenge you to find a better tasting chicken parmigiana!! Capped by their Incredible service. Thank you again! read more

La Scala in KB was amazing. I truly miss more places having service like this place. That personal touch, that extra mile. This quaint little spot in an unsuspecting little strip has food that is to die for. The food is authentic Italian and the staff goes the extra mile, I felt as if I had known them for ages by the end of our meal. The food is fresh & has flavor that will explode on your taste buds. You have the option of sitting outside (for 2) or sitting inside. The ambiance is ok and isn't much to brag about but the food is worth every second of the walk/drive (even if you don't live in KB). They also have items that aren't on the menu & don't worry, if you want something you don't see, ask- if they can they will make it for you. They are truly there to serve the patron. I had the lobster ravioli which is not on the menu but very popular--the sauce was delectable, I will be asking for extra next time! My date had the salmon which was fresh & so flavorful. Sure, you think "just salmon?" But trust me, this salmon is worth mentioning. For desert I went with the traditional tiramisu which is topped with chocolate sauce & fresh strawberries. If you don't enjoy the sauce, let them know to skip that topping. Visit La Scala, not only will you be delighted by some amazing Italian food, you'll be supporting a family business. Trust me, big chain Italian has nothing on this place. read more

This hidden gem offers EXCELLENT food and service. Owner operated, you'll feel like family there and while the food takes a bit longer to come out, thats because they are making it fresh for you and its worth it! ( so an appetizer is a good idea to help make the wait go by) There aren't a lot of tables in this great little "hole in the wall" so Friday and Saturday 6-9pm its pretty busy! I can't think of a time that i've ever had better Italian food. What's even better is the very casual vibe there. NO need to dress up in anything more than comfortable clothes. read more

Took my adult kids to La Scala because I remembered this restaurant from years past when my wife and I lived on the Key. Wow....it did not disappoint!! The focus of the restaurant is just as it should be....food quality and exemplary service. All the pastas were outstanding. The sauces were deeeeelicious! The seafood was fresh and cooked to perfection. This is not a pretentious place....it is simply an outstanding restaurant. Don't let the location on Crandon Blvd fool you. Go there...you'll be impressed! read more

I have been here many times for several years. The owner and his staff are always really kind, smiling and making some jokes. Food is delicious and reasonable price. If you come you will not regret. read more

La Scala Italian Restaurant - Fried calamari - Italian Near Me - Key Biscayne, Florida

My wife and I had dinner here for the first time last week and it was honestly a great experience overall. Now a days the restaurant quality has gone down but then you find a gem like La Scala that helps you remember why you even go out to spend your money on a nice dinner. The food was amazing and fresh but what makes you want to return is the service. You tell me the last time you've gone to a restaurant and the owner knows everyone's name? I'll wait. Well Chandra does. I've been to Italy once and have been to plenty of Italian restaurants in my life and no one comes close but this one brings you back to the homie feel. The way it should be when you go and spend your hard earned money. If I could've given 10 stars I would but it forsure earned this review. I would recommend anyone to at least give it a shot and see for yourself. Trust me, you'll be back soon after. read more

I have been several times to this restaurant and the service and food have been good, but today (Saturday) I called and made a reservation for 8:30PM, for three people. We arrived at 8:25PM and the site was full. We were told we had to wait about 10 minutes. After 35 minutes, I asked the owner, if we could sit and his answer was that the other people, who were waiting outside, also had reservations. Why do they offer reservations if they are not going to fulfill them? read more

This is our favorite restaurant every time we visit Key Biscayne. The owner is always very attentive, menu offer good alternative. Food is always well prepared, if they have the Osso Boco on the menu go for it. Good wine selection and the service is always exceptional read more

This is our local Italian goto. Many great meals especially your bolognese and seafood pasta. Just for reference, the capellini was pretty bland. Just ok. The raviolis Della Nona excellent. I will remember for next time stick to my favorites. read more

Amazingly delicious. Tucked in a side store front, its plain exterior belies the experience within. Greeted by Italian wait staff, the limited seating makes for an intimate dining experience. Wife and I had Caesar salads and veal (for me) and chicken (for her) lemon piccata with side pastas. The lemon piccata was a nice balance of lemon, oil, and herbs. Nice selection of reasonably priced wines. Desserts (in-house made) for us were cannoli and tiramisu. The tiramisu is what dreams are made of. The owner personally checked with patrons as to how their meals were. First class operation. read more

This little gem is hidden in a shopping center. The service was amazing and the food was delicious! Everything was super fresh and cooked to order. I'm not usually a fan of tiramisu but theirs is amazing! Pop in I promise you won't be disappointed! read more

Excellent service and excellent food, fresh and delicious. Something as simple as the roasted potatoes remind me of home. Tiramisu is a must! read more

While La Scala lacks a grand interior, the food is the best on the island. I carve the fish if the day and Caesar salad while the rest of my family fights over the lasagna. The staff is kind, funny and helpful. read more

Best restaurant on Key Biscayne. The food is fantastic no matter what you order but owner and the staff take it to another level with their attitude and attention to detail. read more

Really appreciate the personal service and attention to detail at this charming restaurant! Reinaldo and the staff took great care to make sure our evening was a delight. Don't miss this special place! read more

The food and service is excellent! We love the family atmosphere, friendly staff and owner. A hidden gem on Key Biscayne.

Best restaurant option on KB. Chandra has done an amazing job resurrecting the old Vito's. Ingredients are top shelf, prices are right and the service is first class. I unhesitatingly recommend it. Locals are regulars, including us. Try the lasagna, Osso bucco, lamb shank and all the veal, fresh fish and homemade pasta dishes. Two thumbs up! read more

La Scala is a fabulous restaurant with perfectly made pasta. Fish and veal dishes are amazing. The servers are so friendly and professional. We went for a quiet anniversary dinner but unfortunately, the huge table next to us was so boisterous and the table behind us with loud whining kids made conversation impossible. We left without dessert. read more