Eyal Shani Opens Bella in South Beach: Inside Miami’s New Italian Restaurant at Liberty Park Hotel
Celebrity Chef Eyal Shani Debuts Bella in Miami Beach
Internationally acclaimed Israeli chef Eyal Shani, widely recognized for his bold interpretations of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, is turning his attention to Italy. This week, he officially unveils Bella, a new Italian-inspired restaurant located at the Liberty Park Hotel — formerly known as the South Beach Hotel — in Miami Beach.The opening marks another milestone in Shani’s expanding culinary footprint, introducing a concept that blends Italian culinary tradition with his signature ingredient-focused philosophy.
An Imaginary Muse at the Center of the Concept
Bella is inspired by an imaginary Italian woman of the same name. According to the restaurant’s official announcement, her spirit informs the entire dining experience, shaping both the menu and the atmosphere.“Bella’s energy comes to life through a menu that marries Italian tradition with Shani’s singular, ingredient-driven culinary philosophy,” the press materials note, framing the restaurant as both a narrative and a culinary expression.
A Menu That Merges Italian Classics with Shani’s Signature Style
Set to open officially on Thursday, January 29, the indoor-outdoor restaurant features a menu developed in collaboration with Victor Gothelf, executive chef of Port Sa’id — another Shani concept with locations in New York City and Tel Aviv.Guests can expect a dynamic dining format that begins with antipasti served from a central table in the middle of the dining room, encouraging a communal and theatrical experience.
From there, the menu unfolds into a wide range of handmade pasta dishes, including ragú, pomodoro, and black pepper variations. Salads, vegetable mezze, seafood selections, steak, and schnitzel round out the offerings — a nod to Shani’s reputation as a master of the dish on this side of the Atlantic.
True to form, the menu descriptions lean into Shani’s whimsical and poetic style. Among the standout phrases highlighted in early previews are references to “the marrow of a dinosaur bone,” “a truly giant schnitzel (trust me),” and “homemade tagliatelle with a painful Madagascan black pepper that burns your mouth.”
The language reflects Shani’s long-standing approach: elevating simple, high-quality ingredients through storytelling and sensory drama.
An Italian Piazza in the Heart of South Beach
While the food will undoubtedly command attention, Bella’s design is equally noteworthy. The space was created by designer Veronica Mishaan, who transformed the venue into a setting reminiscent of a traditional Italian piazza.At the center of the restaurant sits an open courtyard anchored by a fountain inspired by Florence’s Fontana del Carciofo. The indoor-outdoor layout enhances Miami’s tropical climate while evoking the romance of Italy’s historic squares.
The result is a destination that feels transportive — a space where diners can move seamlessly between Miami Beach energy and European charm.
A New Culinary Landmark for Miami Beach
With Bella, Shani adds another high-profile dining experience to Miami’s evolving restaurant landscape. The concept blends narrative, craftsmanship, and design in a way that aligns with South Beach’s appetite for immersive hospitality.For locals and visitors alike, Bella offers more than dinner — it delivers a reminder that sometimes, the closest thing to an Italian getaway might be right here in Miami Beach.
