Amalfi Llama Fine Dining in Aventura with Messi as part owner, Flanigans Restaurant in Hollandale Reviews- March 2025
If you find yourself in Aventura, Florida, make sure to visit the incredible Amalfi Llama, located in the Esplanade. This upscale gem offers not only a luxurious dining experience but also the exciting twist of having Lionel Messi as a part owner, with his dad being a frequent guest and even having his own dedicated booth! But beyond the star-studded connections, Amalfi Llama shines in its food, service, and atmosphere.
From the moment we entered, we were treated to impeccable service. Our server, Gustavo, was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, making sure our dining experience was flawless. We started with a few appetizers, but the standout was the crab cake—it was absolutely massive and, without a doubt, the best crab cake I’ve ever had in my life. The fresh blue crab was packed into the cake, and just a touch of Panko on top provided the perfect crunch. Baked to absolute perfection, every bite was simply divine.
The focaccia bread melted in our mouths, served warm with olive oil and rosemary—simple but so delicious. We also enjoyed a fresh salad that complemented our starters perfectly.
For entrées, the restaurant offers an impressive selection, especially from their renowned steakhouse. We chose the grilled branzino and the tender lobster tails, both cooked beautifully. The flavors were exquisite, and the seafood was cooked just right. We paired it with sides of asparagus and potato purée, both of which were fantastic and completed the meal.
If you are looking to enhance your dining experiences they had a full wine list and variety of other drinks and cocktails
To wrap up our dining experience, we indulged in their rich, creamy cheesecake and a delightful tiramisu with delicious pistachio ice cream—both were absolutely divine. To top it all off, we enjoyed one of their signature wines and cocktails, leaving us fully satisfied with this extraordinary meal.
If you’re in Aventura and looking for a top-notch dining experience, Amalfi Llama in the Esplanade is a must-visit. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seeking a great meal, this restaurant delivers on all fronts.
For more details, check out their website: www.amalfillama.com
Flanagan’s is a well-known, casual dining chain in Miami that has earned its reputation for offering delicious food at affordable prices. With several locations throughout the city, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. On our recent visit to the Hollandale location, we experienced firsthand why it remains such a popular destination. It is associated with Big Daddy’s Liquor, usually located right next to the restaurants.
Flanagan’s offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The Hollandale location features a lovely outdoor patio, perfect for dining al fresco, while the indoor area houses a vibrant sports bar, where you can catch the game while enjoying your meal.
We opted to sit at the bar, which turned out to be a great choice. The service was quick and friendly, and we kicked off our meal with two standout appetizers: the big shrimp cocktail and the indulgent potato skins. Both were flavorful and perfectly portioned to start our meal.
The menu at Flanagan’s is impressively extensive, with a variety of choices to suit every craving. From hearty sandwiches and fresh salads to tender ribs and juicy steaks, there’s something for everyone. I decided to go with the tuna steak, which was cooked to perfection, and paired it with a baked potato side that hit the spot. We also ordered a chicken sandwich and a side of broccoli—a great way to balance out the meal with some veggies.
One of the best parts about dining at Flanagan’s is the full bar and excellent drink selection. The prices are refreshingly affordable, making it easy to enjoy a couple of drinks without breaking the bank. It’s no wonder the place was busy, and we were lucky enough to snag two bar seats right away.
For anyone interested in checking out Flanagan’s, I highly recommend visiting their website to explore their full menu and find the location closest to you. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends or a spot to watch the game, Flanagan’s delivers an all-around enjoyable dining experience at great prices.
Website: Flanagan’s Restaurants
Written by Todd Elliot, Photos by Chris Sebok