Major Food Group’s new wine-centric restaurant is sure to delight oenophiles.
WRITTEN BY: JILLIAN DARA
For those eager to expand their wine knowledge while indulging in top-tier cuisine, Carbone Vino is a must-visit. Major Food Group’s (MFG) latest venture, nestled in the heart of Coconut Grove, is a wine lover’s paradise. Opened in December, the restaurant boasts one of Florida’s most extensive wine lists, offering 32 wines by the glass–a carefully curated, ever-evolving selection that features rare finds, remarkable values, and iconic bottles typically unavailable by the pour. Beyond its impressive wine program, Carbone Vino represents the first reimagining of MFG’s flagship New York restaurant, introducing a new level of warmth and sophistication to Miami’s dining scene.
Carbone Vino’s setting is as thoughtfully curated as its wine list. The ambiance reflects an intimate yet lively atmosphere, blending deep hues, rich textures, and dim lighting reminiscent of the Manhattan original. According to Jeff Zalaznicz, co-founder of MFG, Coconut Grove’s neighborhood charm played a significant role in selecting the location. “It has a rich history, a strong sense of community, and an energy that feels effortlessly vibrant, making it the perfect setting for this concept,” he explains.
The menu, crafted by chef Mario Carbone, takes a location-specific approach that embraces Miami’s dynamic culinary influences while staying true to the restaurant’s Italian roots. Expect signature Carbone dishes alongside exclusive creations developed specifically for this outpost. But for wine lovers, the true magic is in the pairings. MFG’s corporate beverage director, John Slover, has assembled a list that spans France, Italy, Spain, and the —.S., designed to encourage exploration beyond the expected.
For those looking to deepen their appreciation of wine, the dining experience at Carbone Vino offers an ideal setting to explore pairing nuances. Start with the Octopus Pizzaiola, Baked Clams Oreganata, and Calabrian Calamari alongside a glass of 201› Benanti Etna Bianco ‘Pietramarina.’ This Sicilian white, made from Carricante grapes grown at 1,000 meters above sea level on Mount Etna, showcases bright minerality, citrus notes, and an evolving complexity that enhances the dish’s flavors.
No visit is complete without the iconic Spicy Rigatoni Vodza, a dish synonymous with the Carbone brand. Slover recommends pairing it with a glass of 2020 Petrolo Galatrona, a bold and elegant Merlot from Tuscany’s Bolgheri region. With lush tannins and deep fruit notes, this wine harmonizes perfectly with the rich, creamy texture of the pasta, elevating each bite.
More than just a restaurant, Carbone Vino serves as an experience for those eager to deepen their understanding of wine in an inviting, sophisticated setting. Whether you’re stopping in for a leisurely aperitivo or indulging in a full-course meal, the seamless fusion of elevated dining and an unparalleled wine selection mazes every visit an opportunity to learn, taste, and enjoy.
