Let’s be honest—no matter how full we are after a good Italian meal, there’s always room for dessert. At MiraMare Ristorante, dessert isn’t just the last course; it’s the grand finale. Whether you’re wrapping up a romantic date night, enjoying a sunset dinner with family, or just stopping in for something sweet, MiraMare’s dessert menu is the cherry (or cannoli) on top of the experience.
As we move through the warm evenings of August, there’s no better time to treat yourself. And what better place to do it than on the water, with a rich tiramisu or a sparkling Limoncello Flute in hand? Let’s take a closer look at how these Italian-inspired desserts pair perfectly with the authentic cuisine that comes before—and why you’ll want to save room every single time.
Tiramisu: A Classic That Never Misses
If you’ve just polished off a plate of lasagna or pappardelle alla vodka, Tiramisu is the perfect follow-up. MiraMare’s take on this Italian staple is everything it should be—light, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. The ladyfinger biscotti are dipped in bold espresso, layered with smooth mascarpone cheese, and finished with a dusting of cacao that ties it all together.
It’s a dessert that balances rich and refreshing. After a savory meal—especially one with robust tomato or meat sauces—this cool, creamy treat hits all the right notes. For the full effect, pair it with a shot of espresso or a Heavenly Espresso cocktail with Absolute Vanilla, Baileys, Kahlua, and fresh espresso.
Limoncello Flute: Light, Bright, and Boozy
Not every dessert has to be heavy, and the Limoncello Flute is proof. This sunny beauty combines lemon gelato with a swirl of Limoncello liqueur, served elegantly in a flute glass. It’s sweet, tart, icy, and a little boozy—in other words, the dream dessert for hot Florida evenings.
This one shines especially bright after dishes like grilled fish, seafood pasta, or chicken piccata. The citrus notes lift the palate and leave you feeling fresh, not full. It also happens to be one of the most photogenic desserts on the menu. Just saying.
Homemade Zeppole: The Fried Dough You Never Knew You Needed
Looking for something a little nostalgic and seriously fun? The Homemade Zeppole are where it’s at. These crispy fried dough balls are tossed in cinnamon and sugar, then served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce on the side. Think of them as the Italian cousin of doughnuts—but way better.
They’re perfect for sharing, but we wouldn’t blame you for keeping the plate to yourself. Zeppole pair wonderfully with chicken marsala or veal piccata, bringing a playful, slightly indulgent end to a classic meal. Grab a cappuccino or try the Chocolate Swirl Martini for an extra chocolate fix.
Panna Cotta: Creamy Meets Fruity
Panna Cotta is often the underdog of dessert menus—but not here. MiraMare’s Homemade Panna Cotta is a rich vanilla custard topped with a berry compote, and it’s quietly one of the most elegant options on the list.
After a heavy pasta dish or one of MiraMare’s signature entrees, this silky-smooth dessert offers the ideal balance. The vanilla base brings a cozy, familiar flavor while the berry topping adds brightness and just enough tartness to keep things interesting. It pairs perfectly with a glass of Prosecco, or for a little pick-me-up, an americano or hot tea on the side.
Cannoli: Crunchy, Creamy, Classic
Nothing says Italian dessert like a plate of cannoli. MiraMare’s come as a trio of three small cannoli, filled with sweetened ricotta cheese, chocolate chips, and dusted with powdered sugar. The shells are crisp, the filling is light and creamy, and the portion is just enough to satisfy.
Cannoli are especially nice after a tomato-forward pasta dish or one of MiraMare’s early evening menu options. You get a little crunch, a little cream, and just enough sweetness to round out the meal. Pair it with a Sinful Espresso cocktail, made with Bulleit Bourbon, Frangelico, Kahlua, and espresso, for a dessert with a kick.
Gelato and Sorbet: Simple and Satisfying
Sometimes, the best dessert is the simplest one. MiraMare offers vanilla and chocolate gelato, along with a refreshing lemon sorbet, to keep things light and classic. The gelato is creamy, rich, and comforting—perfect after just about any Italian dish.
The lemon sorbet, on the other hand, is ideal for those who want something icy and refreshing. It acts like a palate cleanser and dessert in one, making it a great option after seafood or grilled dishes. Pair it with a Hugo Spritz if you’re in the mood for something crisp and bubbly.
Affogato and All the Italian Coffees
One of the most indulgent—and underrated—desserts on the menu is the Affogato. It’s as simple as it gets: a scoop of vanilla gelato “drowned” in hot espresso. The contrast between hot and cold, bitter and sweet, is magical. It’s dessert and coffee in one.
If you’re more of a purist, MiraMare also offers a full lineup of Italian coffees: espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, and hot tea. Whether you need a little boost after dinner or you just enjoy a warm cup to sip with dessert, they’ve got you covered.
After-Dinner Cocktails That Steal the Show
Not in the mood for a full dessert? You can drink one instead. MiraMare’s after-dinner cocktail lineup is sweet, satisfying, and just indulgent enough to count as dessert.
The Heavenly Espresso is rich, smooth, and just boozy enough to warm you up. It’s got Absolut Vanilla, Bailey’s, Kahlua, and a shot of espresso to tie it all together. It’s dreamy after tiramisu, or even on its own.
For something bolder, go for the Sinful Espresso, which combines bourbon, Frangelico, Kahlua, and espresso. It’s smoky, nutty, and a little daring—a great match for chocolate desserts like the zeppole or cannoli.
And if chocolate is your love language, the Chocolate Swirl Martini is a must. Made with Absolut Vanilla, Bailey’s chocolate liqueur, white chocolate liqueur, and a swirl of chocolate syrup, this drink is basically dessert in a glass.
The Perfect Ending to an Authentic Italian Meal
What makes MiraMare’s dessert menu so special isn’t just the variety—it’s how seamlessly it pairs with everything else on the menu. From light lemony seafood to rich pasta dishes and savory meats, there’s a dessert (and a drink) to match the vibe.
These desserts are thoughtfully crafted, made with high-quality ingredients, and served with the same attention to detail as the entrees and apps that come before them. Whether you’re finishing off a three-course First Seating dinner, enjoying happy hour small plates, or coming in just for something sweet and a coffee, MiraMare makes sure your night ends on a high note.
So, Should You Save Room for Dessert? Absolutely.
At MiraMare, dessert is more than just a final bite—it’s a chance to slow down, sip something warm (or boozy), and soak in the view. It’s the sweet punctuation to a meal that already feels like a mini vacation, whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend.
The next time you find yourself at MiraMare this August—maybe after a plate of Lasagna MiraMare or grilled salmon with roasted red potatoes—do yourself a favor. Take a peek at the dessert menu. Order that Tiramisu. Try the Affogato. Split the zeppole. Or sip on a Chocolate Swirl Martini and toast to summer.
Buon appetito!
Make a reservation or simply drop by to experience one of Naples’ best Italian restaurants. We can’t wait to welcome you! Call now to make a reservation 239-430-6273.