2019 – DiningOut Miami

What is a mocktail? Well, it’s an alcohol-free drink still offering the Miami party appeal. Before you say, “yuck,” believe us when we tell you these are some of the best Miami mocktails you’ll actually want to drink and not just look at. Whatever the reason–designated driver for the night, pregnant, dieting, looking for a fun drink for the kids–here are some of the best-sophisticated mocktails to sip on while you’re out on the town and you can even re-create them at home.

Esotico Miami

About the Restaurant: Take a trip to the islands of Hawaii by experiencing tropical chow and exotic cocktails at the new tiki spot in Miami, Esotico. Located in Miami’s A&E District, Esotico is decorated with Hawaiian surfboards and lush greenery, creating the ultimate “tiki experience.” Enjoy unique cocktails served in volcanoes, pineapple mugs, tiki cannibal bowls, treasure chests, and more! Can we all say, “ALOHA!”

Mocktail: If You Like Piña Coladas
What’s in it? Creamy and sweet, delicious on your palate. Made with real ginger syrup, the real cream of coconut, pineapple juice, lime juice, coconut water, a sexy touch of ginger, and a pinch of salt. Shake with crushed ice or slushy machine serve in a pineapple or squall glass. Don’t forget to garnish with a cocktail umbrella, pineapple wedge, and cinnamon powder.

[1600 NE 1st Avenue Miami; esoticomiami.com]

Sugar Factory American Brasserie

Lollipop Passion Goblet

About the Restaurant: Celebrated for their sweets and treats, dine amongst celebrities like the Kardashian’s, the Jenner’s, Katy Perry, Britney Spears and so many more. Sugar Factory American Brasserie, located at the Victor Hotel, serves up everything from crepes, to burgers, salads, and pizza. But, the desserts and drinks are making waves. The presentations are outrageously over the top and of course, decadently delicious. Get your Instagram ready…your followers will thank you.

Mocktail: Lollipop Passion Goblet
What’s in it? This delicious bubbly concoction is made with pineapple juice, sour mix, and sprite to create a true taste of the tropics that’s as fun to look at as it is to drink. For the final touch, the goblet is garnished with lollipops and a candy necklace. We’ve got a crush on this sugar rush!

[1144 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach; sugarfactory.com]

The Sylvester

About the Restaurant: Brought to Midtown by the same owner’s behind the popular restaurant, Beaker & Gray, is the Sylvester – a spot where vintage is embraced and encouraged. Comfortable seating, classic cocktails with “new-level techniques” and fun bites that celebrate Miami’s culture is the goal behind the retro bar with antique furniture and tropical touches at every turn.

Mocktail: Phoenix
What’s in it? Coconut cream, honey, pineapple, watermelon, grapefruit. Even without the alcohol, are you ready to rise and fly like a phoenix?

[3456 N. Miami Ave., Miami; thesylvesterbar.com]

Le Jardinier

About the Restaurant: Located in Miami’s Arts District, Le Jardinier is as forward-thinking in cuisine as it is in ambiance. With a vegetable-focused menu, feel as though you’re dining in a modern greenhouse. The interior elements are one-of-a-kind, complimenting dishes that utilize the highest quality vegetables, seasonal ingredients, and fresh herbs and cocktails made with teas, fresh fruit, and house-made bitter tinctures.

Mocktail: The PSL (The Pumpkin Spice Version)
Cold-brew shaken with toasted pumpkin seed, cinnamon, clove, ginger, nutmeg, and cream. Who said PSL’s are basic? Not us!

[151 NE 41st St suite 135, Miami; lejardinier-miami.com]

La Cocina

About the Cocktail Bar: After collaborating with some of the best mixologists in Miami-Dade County, the product is: La Cocina Coctelería. Located in Hialeah, it’s the city’s first eccentric coctelería that celebrates the area’s history. Created by the same team behind LoKal, Kush, Spillover, Vicky’s House and Stephen’s Delicatessen, the cocktail bar celebrates the 305. We should also mention that the suite number is 305. Coincidence? No, it’s meant to be!

Mocktail: Quinceanera
What’s in it? Guava, lemon, and coconut water.

[1000 East 16th Street, Suite #305; lacocinahialeah.com]

Lido Bayside Grill

About the Restaurant: There’s nothing standard about the Lido Bayside Grill at the Standard Spa. Situated on the water, Lido is paying homage to the Japanese diet and lifestyle – quality healthy food and vitamin C. Lido prides itself as being the perfect place to “gather with good friends, good food and good drinks.” On a menu that’s guided by locally sourced seafood and seasonal produce, citrus and fermentation are woven throughout the dishes. Whether you’re looking to indulge in options from the raw bar, chilled dishes, fried options, or grilled, you’ll be transported to a relaxing oasis the second you step foot on the property.

Mocktail: Limonda De Coco
What’s in it? Coconut milk, syrup and lime juice. Loco for this limonda de coco!

[The Standard Spa, 40 Island Ave, Miami Beach; standardhotels.com/miami/features/bayside-grill]

By Loren Gutentag and Kathy Buccio, contributing writers

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Esotico Miami La Cocina Le Jardinier lido bayside grill Miami Mocktails Sugar Factory American Brasserie The Sylvester

The Best Food-Driven New Year’s Eve Parties in Miami

December 19, 2019

6:07 pm

In a party city like Miami, you’re never short on options for New Year’s Eve parties. But for those craving something beyond the typical champagne-soaked DJ-driven nightclub affair, we’ve got you covered. From a Gatsby-themed soirée and a nine-course culinary journey at the iconic Biltmore Hotel to global delicacies paired with an intimate performance by a Grammy Award-winning band at The Setai, these New Year’s Eve parties offer the perfect mix of flavor and fun.

The Biltmore Hotel

The historic Biltmore Hotel is all about Golden Era glamor, so it’s only fitting that the theme of this year’s New Year’s Eve fete is “Ringing in The Roaring Twenties.” In the Alhambra and Granada ballrooms, guests will enjoy a four-course dinner, an extravagant dessert buffet, hand-rolled cigars on the terrace, and a laser light show by Event Factor. Sounds will be provided by a visiting DJ and the band, Higher Ground. Once the clock strikes midnight, a fireworks show will light up the night. Tickets to this can’t-miss event are $495 for the general public, $395 for members and $120 for teens. Guests are encouraged to wear white, gold and champagne colors.

Details: The Biltmore is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables. For more information, visit www.BiltmoreHotel.com or call 305-913-3230. Tickets won’t be sold at the door, so make sure you purchase yours ahead of the event here.

Fontana at The Biltmore Hotel

To usher in 2020, Chef Giuseppe Galazzi has created a seasonally-inspired four-course feast at Fontana spotlighting delicacies included braised short ribs with polenta, Maine lobster stuffed with blue crab, homemade tortellini, and more. The New Year’s Eve menu is $120 per person, but an additional limited menu will also be available. Stay after dinner and enjoy live music, fireworks, and more at the hotel.

Details: Fontana at The Biltmore is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables. For reservations, call 1-855-311-6903.

Palme d’Or at The Biltmore Hotel

Foodies will find plenty to rave about at Palme d’Or’s New Year’s Eve dinner — a lavish nine-course culinary adventure curated by Chef Rogelio Fiallo. Priced at $175 per person, the gastronomic journey will feature dishes like Kumamoto oysters, Alaskan king crab, Jackman Ranch wagyu strip steak, and more.

Details: Palme d’Or at The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables. For reservations, call 1-855-311-6903.

Jaya at the Setai

Jaya at the Setai is going all-out this New Year’s Eve with “Vanderbilt Glory,” an extravagant five-course feast that will blend southeast Asian flavors with all the glitz and glamor associated with the Vanderbilt empire. The evening will kick off with canapes, followed by a menu spotlighting delicacies like foie gras and brie, wagyu filet mignon, and more. Louis Roederer champagne will flow freely all night. After dinner, Grammy Award winner Marlow Rosado & Band will perform alongside dancers and Latin cabaret-themed stage acts. Pricing starts at $695 for adults and $320 for kids age 12 and under.

Details: Jaya at the Setai is located at 2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL. To make a reservation, email [email protected], and [email protected], or call 855-923-7899.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Choose from a range of global cuisines to ring the new year in with at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. StripSteak by Michael Mina, Scarpetta by Scott Conant, and Hakkasan will each offer exclusive 4-course prix fixe dinners priced between $225 and $295 per person, depending on the seating time you select (later reservations are pricier). Chef Michael Mina’s casual underground eatery, Pizza & Burger, will serve up a three-course prix fixe dinner for $79 per person from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., and the oceanfront restaurant Vida will serve a walk-in-only New Year’s Eve dinner buffet for $89 per person ($44.50 for children) from 5-11 p.m.

Details: Fontainebleau Miami Beach is located at 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. To make a reservation, call (877) 326-7412 or email [email protected].

Isabelle’s Grill Room & Garden

The jewel of the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Isabelle’s Grill Room & Garden offers one of the most romantic settings in which to spend New Year’s Eve. This year, the chic indoor-outdoor oasis will serve a prix fixe menu from 5-10 p.m. priced at $105 per person, which includes a complimentary welcome glass of bubbly, an amuse-bouche, and an exclusive three-course menu you can curate yourself form a range of options — think petit filet mignon, king crab, pan-seared halibut, crisp boneless Long Island duck and more. And save room for indulgent desserts like ginger snaps, chocolate, Rice Krispies and hot cocoa.

Details: Isabelle’s Grill Room & Garden is located at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, 3300 SW 27th Avenue, Miami. For reservations, call 305-400-0562 or visit isabellescoconutgrove.com for more information.

Boulud Sud

Daniel Boulud’s Miami outpost is dialing up dinner on December 31 with a three-course menu and optional wine pairing priced between $85 and $140 per person during the first seating. The second seating — known as the “Gala Seating” — will feature a five-course menu priced between $175 and $250, depending on whether you opt for the wine pairing (and you totally should — Boulud Sud boasts one of the most extensive wine lists in the area).

Details: Boulud Sud at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami is located at 255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami. For reservations, call 305-421-8600.

Faena

Faena is going back a few centuries to Europe’s baroque period — and adding a few South American touches — for its New Year’s Eve party. Guests will be treated to welcome champagne and cocktails, followed by a multi-course dinner at either Pao or Los Fuegos. After, live musical acts will keep the party going in the hotel’s Living Room as Perrier-Jouet and G.H. Mumm champagne flows. The countdown to midnight will take place at Damien Hirst’s Golden Mammoth, where there will be live musical performances, a fireworks display, and more surprises. General admission tickets start at $250 per person, will dinner plus admission starts at $650 per person and includes Faena house wines, spirits, and champagne.

Details: Faena is located at 3201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. For reservations, call 305-534-8800.

Toro Toro

Celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval is bringing the heat this New Year’s Eve with a buffet spread fit for royalty at his acclaimed Pan-Latin Steakhouse, Toro Toro. Guests will find all their favorite holiday fixings here, including a seafood and raw bar and indulgent desserts, plus one bottle of champagne per couple. They’ll also enjoy access to an exclusive firework viewing area with a complimentary glass of champagne and grapes at midnight. The New Year’s Eve dining experience is priced at $225 for adults and $99 for children ages 6-12 (it’s free for kids age 5 and under). After the big countdown, Toro Toro’s lobby bar and lounge will keep the festivities going with a DJ and dancers.

Details: Toro Toro is located at the InterContinental Miami, 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami. For reservations, call 305-372-4710. You can purchase tickets for the NYE dining experience here.

The Betsy Miami Beach

This iconic South Beach hotel invites guests to close the year out at LT Steak and Seafood, where they’ll enjoy a five-course tasting menu curated by Executive Chef Danny Ganem. There will be live music all night, and if you make a reservation for the restaurant’s second seating at 8 p.m. you’ll enjoy midnight access to the hotel’s rooftop terrace for a midnight champagne toast, a live band, and a prime view of the fireworks. Reservations for the first seating at 5 p.m. are $250 per person. Reservations for the second seating at 8 p.m. are $295 per person. If you’re looking for a more laid-back family-friendly vibe, The Alley will offer an a la carte menu all evening long, spotlighting pizza, pasta and gelato specials — no reservation needed.

Details: The Betsy is located at 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. For reservations, call 305-673-0044 or visit www.thebetseyhotel.com/dine/lt-steak-seafood and www.thebetsyhotel.com/dine/the-alley for more information.

Novecento

Head to any of Novencto’s locations — Aventura, Brickell, Doral or Key Biscayne — on New Year’s Eve and you’ll enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal for just $99 per person. Then, stay for an after-dinner celebration set to beats by a visiting DJ, including party favors and a champagne toast at midnight.

Details: Novecento has locations in Aventura, Brickell, Doral, and Key Biscayne. For reservations and information, visit https://www.novecento.com/.

By Amanda Mesa, a contributing writer

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holidays Miami Beach new year's eve

Stubborn Seed: Magic on a Plate

December 11, 2019

1:27 pm

Impressive from start to finish

There’s only one word to describe an experience at Stubborn Seed: magical. The restaurant, which has fed the South of Fifth masses for over two years now, is helmed by Top Chef season 13 winner Jeremy Ford. Ford, who has worked under culinary greats like Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is cooking up delicious cuisine that shows why he’s one of the most esteemed chefs in the scene.

Dinner at the 70ish-seat restaurant is intimate — you’re likely to encounter plenty of couples during your visit, along with a few larger parties. All are welcome, though, as Ford and his team make dishes that are equally innovative and approachable; everyone from food critics to curious diners should leave happy.

At Stubborn Seed, guests have the option of ordering a la carte or choosing from two tasting menus (five courses or eight courses) that promise surprises. That said, we opted to “choose our adventure” with a few — very tasty — recommendations from our helpful server.

Speaking of service, the staff does not miss a beat; water glasses were constantly refilled before getting too low, and someone was always touching our table and the tables around us; in a city where service can be lacking, that’s a welcome sight.

But back to the food: yowza. Diners were treated to a complimentary round of pumpkin soup, croquettes and oysters to start the meal, plus bread service that included a flavorful garbanzo chili dip. Then the real fun began with items like kombu-charred octopus and warm celery root, two dishes that should be a staple of any meal here.

The former with its guajillo chili and garlic puree is punchy, making for a memorably yummy bite each time. Meanwhile, the celery root’s presentation will have you salivating before the first bite. Surrounded by crackling maitake mushroom and a creamy mustard, it’s a beauty — and one that tastes as good (if not better) than it looks.

Also, we need to talk about the lavash. At $8, it’s easily the lowest-priced snack on the menu. Don’t let the price fool you: It’s the restaurant’s sleeper hit. Chicken liver butter and smoked chili jam is really all there is to this flatbread, and that’s all it needs; the amount of flavor packed into this bite is insane. With a price like that, you’d be foolish not to order it.

Larger plates also dazzle. A juicy Bell & Evans chicken with pomme puree is filling and hits the spot — this is chicken done right. Slow cooked beef cheek with white truffle grits is another highlight that commands its premium; the richness and depth of flavor is unlike anything we’ve encountered.

Ensuring your meal ends on a sweet note is pastry chef Dallas Wynne’s assortment of treats. If it’s your first time here, order the famous snickerdoodle cookies. They may not sound as exciting as other offerings, but you’ll be singing a different tune fast once you taste the valrhona gianduja. Seasonal delights like honey baked pears and espresso panna cotta help us forget that seasons don’t exist in Miami, and we’re grateful to Wynne for the escape.

All in all, Jeremy Ford and his team have crafted a stellar dining experience from start to finish. The service is impeccable, the food is exceptional (and Instagrammable), and the place is intimate — you feel like part of something special when you’re there. Few restaurants leave you not only feeling satisfied with your meal, but also feeling good. Stubborn Seed is one of them.

101 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 322-5211

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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slider Stubborn Seed

10 Miami Restaurants Offering Tempting 2019 Thanksgiving Specials

November 18, 2019

6:14 pm

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a Thanksgiving meal. Between the turkey, multiple sides and decadent desserts, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleasing treat. For those that want to enjoy the food without the backbreaking work involved to get it on the table (or deal with the mountain of dishes left to clean), these Miami restaurants are offering tempting Turkey Day specials.

ARIETE
3540 Main Highway, Coconut Grove
(305) 640-5862
Website

Chef Michael Beltran has captured food lover’s hearts with an innovative fare that blends modern-American with the chef’s Cuban roots. Showcasing seasonal ingredients, the cozy Coconut Grove space marries exquisite food in a relaxed space. For Thanksgiving, the restaurant will be offering a New American feast from 3 pm to 10 pm where diners will be treated to an all-you-can-eat buffet ($75 per adult and $35 per child under 10 years old, excluding tax and gratuity.) Menu offerings include an assortment of holiday favorites and Chef Michael Beltran’s beloved family recipes with a contemporary twist. Guests can enjoy dishes like Smoked Turkey Legs, Fried Turkey Breast, Green Bean Casserole, Cheddar and Fresno Cornbread and Candied Yams. Deserts include Pecan Pie, Goat Cheese Flan and Apple Streusel Pie.

PALM D’OR
1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables
305-913-3189
Website

Set in Coral Gables’ stunning Biltmore Hotel, this elegant award-winning restaurant is a go-to destination for special occasions. For Thanksgiving, the restaurant will be offering a tasting menu (priced at $95 with an additional $75 for wine pairing, excluding tax and gratuity) featuring classic fall dishes. Begin with the Pumpkin Soup, served with Crispy Cranberry Bread, Sunflower Seed tuile and Spinach Cream Cheese followed by a Fall Salad (kale, fresh cranberries, roasted butternut squash, and apples.) Beyond the Oven-Roasted Turkey (served with Sweet Potato Confit and Cranberry Compote) main courses include Jumbo Sea Scallops with Honey-Roasted Carrots, Celery Root Confit, Carrot Purée and Lentil Cake, Sea Bass with Cauliflower Purée, Baby Leeks and Ginger Beurre Blanc and Wagyu Strip Steak with Truffle Mashed Potato, Sauté Shiitake Mushroom and Vermouth Veal Jus. Follow dinner with the restaurant’s legendary cheese cart followed by dessert options of Pecan Pie, Crème Anglaise, Caramel Sorbet and Warm Apple Tart.

RUSTY PELICAN
3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne
305-361-3818
www.therustypelican.com

Pair Thanksgiving celebration with a quintessential Miami sunset by heading to this long-standing favorite. For $89 per adult and $35 per child (excluding tax and gratuity), the Brunch Buffet served from 10 am to 3 pm includes a wide assortment such a Banana French Toast, Baby Kale and Goat Cheese Scrambled Eggs and Applewood Smoked Bacon and Pork Sausage. Beyond breakfast, diners will enjoy a raw bar, sushi, and ceviche plus carving stations with Rosemary Crusted Leg of Lamb, Garlic Crusted Tomahawk Prime Rib, Miso Glazed Mahi-Mahi and of course, a Hickory-Smoked Whole Turkey. End the meal on a sweet note with an assortment of Mini Desserts and Pastries like Pumpkin Pie, Carrot Cake, Pecan Cheesecake, Apple Tart and Chocolate Mousse Cake.

BIRD & BONE
4041 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
305.424.1234

Chef Richard Hales dishes out Southern-inspired cooking in a modern farmhouse setting at the Confidante Miami Beach. From 5 pm to 10 pm, the restaurant will be offering a Thanksgiving prix fixe dinner ($60 per person) with a choice of a starter, main dish, accompaniments, and dessert. Diners can enjoy a Seasonal Squash Bisque, Turkey Cooked Two Ways, Cornbread Dressing and a Trio of Sweets: Chocolate Pecan Tart, Dutch Apple Cobbler, and Pumpkin Brûlée.

BOULUD SUD
255 Biscayne Blvd. Way, Miami
305-421-8800
www.bouludsud.com/miami

Celebrated chef Daniel Boulud’s Miami eatery is an ode to refined Mediterranean cuisine. The South Florida outpost to New York’s original is a welcome addition to Downtown. For Thanksgiving day, Boulud Sud is serving a three-course prix-fixe menu featuring starters like Spiced Pumpkin Soup and Italian Chicory Salad and Pumpkin Agnolotti, Seared Mediterranean Branzino and Lamb Chops for the main course. Desserts range from Spiced Pumpkin Sundae to Pecan Tarte. Prices are $65 per person, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm or $75 per person from 2:30 pm to 10 pm

ESSENSIA
3025 Collins Ave., Miami Beach
305-908-5458
www.thepalmshotel.com

Set in the posh Palms Hotel & Spa, this restaurant has a keen focus on seasonal fare, promoting the use of local and sustainable ingredients, beginning with their own on-site organic garden. For Thanksgiving, a buffet dinner priced at $54/per person, and $22 for children 12 and under gains access to a bounty of dishes like Deviled Eggs with Salmon Caviar and Smoked Paprika, Winter Harvest Salad with Arugula, Pickled Golden Beets, pomegranate, feta, toasted pine nuts, and lemon vinaigrette dressing and Slow-Roasted Heritage Turkey with Turkey Gravy, Rosemary and Cranberry-Orange Chutney. Prime Rib Roast and Salt-Baked Salmon will also be served along with signature sides like Caramelized Butternut Squash Wedges with Sage Hazelnut Pesto and Roasted Roots of Parsnip, Yams, Carrots and Ginger-Maple Glaze. They’ll be an assortment of seasonal desserts and pies as well. The buffet will run from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

THE SURF CLUB RESTAURANT
9011 Collins Ave, Surfside
305-768-9440
www.surfclubrestaurant.com

Renowned Chef Thomas Keller is the mastermind behind this elegant eatery with a nod to the property’s historic past. The restaurant will be offering a special menu priced at $150 per person featuring starters of Crudités, Deviled Eggs, Fall Spiced Nuts and Cheese and Crackers followed by a Waldorf Salad. Main courses include the choice of Slow-Roasted Turkey Breast with Confit Leg En Persillade, Sage Gravy, Cranberry and Blood Orange Relish, Olive Oil Poached Halibut, or The French Laundry Garden Pumpkin Cannelloni. Cornbread stuffing with Garlic Sausage and Leek Confit and Garnet Yam with Brown-butter Gingersnap Streusel are among the delectable sides. Dessert features Bourbon Pecan Pie or Pumpkin Cheesecake with a Cranberry Cherry Coulis

DIEZ Y SEIS
1901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach
305-695-3226

Mexican cuisine is mastered by Argentinian Chef Jose Icardi at this Shore Club signature spot. For those looking to step outside the traditional Thanksgiving box, head over to the poolside restaurant for Turkey Tamales made with braised turkey in tomato chipotle sauce, cotija cheese, and topped with pickled red onions, Mexican cream and tamale sauce. They pair well with anything off of the beloved tequila cart making the rounds.

EMBER
151 NE 41st St Suite 117, Miami
786-334-6494
www.embermiami.com

Chef Brad Kilgore’s contemporary American bistro has garnered South Florida’s attention with unique dishes like Fire-roasted Lasagna and Roasted Cornbread Custard with Bone Marrow Butter. Come Thanksgiving, the restaurant will serve a pre-fixe dinner ($65 per person from 4 pm to 9 pm) offering holiday favorites like Pumpkin Soup with Bacon, Pecan, Maple and Pumpkin Seed Oil, Slow Roasted Heritage Turkey, Cornbread Stuffing and Smoked Neck Gravy. Dessert comes by way of a Pie Station featuring Sweet Potato Pie, Apple Pie, Pecan Pie, and Peanut Butter Pie.

CORSAIR kitchen + bar
19999 West Country Club Drive (inside of JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa)
786-279-6800

Tucked away in Aventura’s Turnberry Isle Miami, this venerated brunch-spot favorite is the second South Florida restaurant of celebrity Italian chef Scott Conant. The contemporary American boasts a 45-seat bar and an overall festival vibe that makes it an ideal Thanksgiving destination. Appetizers include Calabaza Soup, Prosciutto, and Figs, Seared Sea Scallops or Sweet Potato Gnocchi. For entrees select Roasted Turkey Breast with Stuffing, Buttermilk Mash, Green Beans, Cranberry Sauce, and Gravy Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash, Seared Chilean Sea Bass or Pan-Roasted Filet Mignon. The trifecta of Thanksgiving Day pies (pumpkin, apple, and pecan) are offered for dessert. Prices are $65 per person, $32 for children 5-12 and will run from noon-10pm.

By Alona Abbady Martinez
Staff Writer

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Ariette bird & bone Boulud Sud corsair kitchen and bar diez y seis ember essensia palme d'or rusty pelican the surf club

Surf House Makes Waves With Satisfying Seafood

November 4, 2019

12:22 pm

cocktails DiningOut Magazine diningout miami JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa miami eats miami restaurants Miami seafood seafood slider Surf House Tidal Cove Waterpark water park

Casual Dining With a Coastal Twist

When you think of water park food, what usually comes to mind? We think of hot dogs, burgers and other casual bites—nothing out of this world. At places like amusement parks where thrill and entertainment is the focus, food is typically an afterthought.

At Surf House Bar & Grill inside Tidal Cove Waterpark, however, the kitchen is elevating park fare into something that’s more than just passable. You can tell a lot of thought went into the menu at this Coastal American locale on the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa property. It reads impressively with a wide range of fresh seafood options for all palates and ages. Key Lime Biscuits with honey butter, Tempura Oysters, Shrimp Cocktail, and Charred Octopus are just a few of the many appetizer selections that let you know Surf House means business.

That said, don’t skip over less exciting items like the salads—you’ll miss out. The Seafood Louie in particular is a star: Tasty lobster, lump crab, and shrimp make for a stellar meal you’ll remember well after it’s over. Handheld selections are plentiful and substantial, but you won’t feel too weighed down to continue exploring Tidal Cove. Standouts in this section include the Blackened Mahi-Mahi Sandwich and Fish Tacos, both of which can be easily shared between two people.

Although the menu is predominantly seafood, there are still ample choices for those who prefer meat or vegetables. Non-seafood items like Buffalo Chicken Wings, Nashville Hot Chicken or the Vegan Burger help ensure that everyone in your party has something to savor. That’s what we love the most about Surf House: its versatility.

Case in point: Whether you’re looking for a quick bite for lunch or if you prefer a more leisurely experience, Surf House delivers. Entrées like Steamed Mussels and Swordfish Churrasco are things we’d expect to find at Turnberry’s other upscale restaurants—not in the middle of a water park. But having these more refined selections available is a welcome treat; especially when all you want to do after a long day of fun in the sun is relax and indulge.

Speaking of fun, the cocktails at Surf House are also not to be missed. Curated by Miami’s own Cocktail Cartel, the libations list is home to familiar frozen drinks like Strawberry Daiquiris and Piña Coladas, as well as more creative concoctions like a Strawberry Stormy (strawberry-infused rum, nutmeg, ginger) or a Smokey Tommy (mezcal, lime and agave with a savory salt rim). In a large group? Get your preferred cocktail in a pitcher.

The next time you find yourself at Tidal Cove and need to fuel up for all the slides and pools, pay a visit to Surf House. Its approachable yet elevated seafood offerings and refreshing cocktails are rare in a world of water park food that’s phoned in. Other parks need to take note.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. | Contributing Writer

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Your Go-To Spots for When You're Feeling Social

October 30, 2019

12:55 pm

American Food DiningOut Magazine diningout miami featured-posts happy hour miami eats miami restaurants Pizza & Burger by Michael Mina social stripsteak by michael mina villa azur

When you start to crave human interaction after a Netflix binge, head to one of these hot spots to spread your social butterfly wings

Cigar Social Thursdays at StripSteak by Michael Mina

Whether you’re a fan of cigars or just craving an elevated alternative to the traditional post-work happy hour, StripSteak’s Cigar Social offers a unique way to change up your weekday routine this summer. Every Thursday from 5-7pm, Michael Mina’s classic American steakhouse serves a cigar and spirit pairing on the outdoor terrace for $25. The selection rotates every month, which means you’ll have ample opportunities to sip and smoke your way around the world. Rally some friends or colleagues and make it your new Thursday evening tradition.

Lavish late-nights at Villa Azur

Fantasies of a night out in Miami come true at this glamorous and singular South Beach setting featuring delectable French-Mediterranean cuisine. From the sparkling chandeliers to the plush white couches and the fabulous tropical patio setting, Villa Azur offers a slice of paradise to everyone who visits. DJ music encourages dancing under the stars, making this a true late-night Miami hotspot. Indulge in the Pâte a la Meule, a decadently rich dish combining linguini, mushroom sauce, and fresh truffle flambéed tableside, or opt for the Cornish Hen en Cocotte, a classic French favorite. Whatever you choose, rest assured a stop by Villa Azur will take any night to new heights.

Social Hour at Pizza & Burger by Michael Mina

Fontainebleau Miami Beach might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re chasing drink specials, but Pizza & Burger—the resort’s casual-cool dining concept helmed by, yes you guessed it, award-winning Chef Michael Mina once again—has some of the best libations in town. During Social Hour from 5-7pm, you can sip half-priced beer on tap plus a selection of wines hand-picked by the sommelier. And if you order a specialty cocktail or punch off the menu, you’ll enjoy the second one for just a dollar. Night-owls can also take advantage of these deals during Reverse Hour from 11pm-midnight. Not to mention, you can round out your drink selection with any of Chef Mina’s decadent takes on pizza, burgers, and other classic bar bites. So go get your drink on already.

By DiningOut Staff

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Serving Up Timeless Tradition

October 30, 2019

12:50 pm

a fish called avalon Chef Kal Abdalla classics DiningOut Magazine diningout miami featured-posts Italian food miami eats miami restaurants old lisbon Osteria Del Teatro Portuguese food seafood tradition

These classic Miami staples are ageless in their recipes, process, and atmosphere

Tasty Traditions at Old Lisbon

In Portugal, they say there are 365 recipes using bacalhau; one recipe for each day of the year. If you’re unfamiliar with bacalhau, it’s codfish that’s dried and salted and considered an absolute staple at most Portuguese dinner tables—and one that is rare to find here in South Florida. However, at Old Lisbon Restaurants, they bring the tradition to life by importing 16 tons of the specialized cod every year to offer customers the finest bacalao dishes in the Miami area. On its way to Old Lisbon, the fish is first fished from Norway, then salted and dried in Portugal. On a menu of over 20 seafood specialties, half of them feature this tasty tradition, and every bite you take is another moment of beachy Lisbon bliss.

Osteria Del Teatro’s Tribute to Timeless Classics

Situated in the iconic boutique Marlin Hotel in the Art Deco District of South Beach, Osteria del Teatro offers a nod to the past. Complete with black and white movies on display, soft jazz music playing in the distance, fantastic food, and signature cocktails, Osteria is the place to go when nostalgia strikes. Discover daily happy hour in the quaint lounge area from 5-7pm daily. For only $8, enjoy popular dishes such as the Casoncelli alla Bergamasca, made with handmade candy-shape ravioli and roasted veal stuffing, Parmesan cheese and crispy pancetta, all in a brown butter sage sauce. Try other greats, like the Agnolotti al Pesto or the Ravioli di Pesce. Pair your favorite bite with a signature cocktail, like the Sophia Loren, or perhaps a Bellini, an Old Fashion, or a Scotch Collins. If you ask us, it’s a savory way to unwind every day!

Standards of Excellence at A Fish Called Avalon

If the 1955 Oldsmobile convertible parked in front of A Fish Called Avalon isn’t enough to make you say, “Wow,” the culinary experience will certainly do the trick! For nearly 30 years, A Fish Called Avalon has set the standard for culinary excellence. For the past 10 years, Executive Chef Kal Abdalla, a veteran of The Forge and a native of the Syrian island of Arwad, has created award-winning dishes adored by locals and travelers alike. To the croons of live music daily, indulge in the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, the Chilean Sea Bass with a miso glaze, and for dessert, try the Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée. It will be the joy ride of a lifetime for your tastebuds!

By DiningOut Staff

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The Best Rooftops to Check Out in SoFlo

October 28, 2019

1:40 pm

Superb food, specialty drinks, and spectacular views—it doesn’t get much better than rooftop dining in Miami

The Miami skyline shows no signs of stopping, and one of the many perks of a growing multi-cultural city is the million-dollar view in some of the best neighborhoods in town. From Brickell to Buena Vista, rooftops are dominating the scene. Grab a cocktail and take in the city seascape at one of these breathtaking Magic City rooftops.

Area 31 {270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami; 305.424.5234}
Wine and dine with the most spectacular views of Biscayne Bay and Brickell Key when you visit the 16th floor of Area 31 at the Kimpton EPIC Hotel. Enjoy an ocean-inspired and locally driven cuisine like East or West Coast Oysters from the Raw Bar or Faroe Island Salmon with Tokyo turnips, golden beets, and preserved lemon Grenobloise at one of the most popular rooftop restaurants in the Magic City. Come for brunch, dinner, or happy hour ($7 wine specials and $8 appetizers) and take in an awe-inspiring skyline that never disappoints.

Juvia {1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.763.8272}
At the iconic 1111 garage structure, there’s a rooftop like no other with spectacular views of Miami Beach. Juvia on Lincoln Road is a must-visit on your next culinary adventure. Bringing foodies together with its global fusion cuisine, Juvia also boasts one of the trendiest rooftops, with an 11:11 happy hour that offers $11 appetizers and $11 cocktails like the Passion Star with vanilla Haku vodka, passion fruit purée and Prosecco. Come at sundown—you’ll thank us.

Sugar {788 Brickell Plaza, Brickell; 786.805.4644}
What if you could experience the most breathtaking and panoramic views of Miami while simultaneously in a lush Asian-inspired jungle 40 floors in the sky? Anything is impossible in Miami, especially when you visit Sugar at the East Hotel in Brickell. Grab a seat at one of the teak-carved barstools or a day bed surrounded by palms after a day of shopping at Brickell City Center, and enjoy bites from their mouthwatering sushi menu or a cocktail like the Sesame Sling, with Tanqueray gin, mango, key lime, and hibiscus. It’s the perfect spot to transition from afternoon libations to an evening night out.

The 1 Rooftop {2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.604.6580}
A floating oasis with views of the ocean is probably the most Instagram-worthy of seaside rooftops. When you visit The 1 Rooftop at The 1 Hotel South Beach, not only will you get to experience the largest rooftop pool on the strip, you’ll also get to savor the amazing Japanese cuisine at Watr. Don’t fret if you see rain on the horizon—the retractable roof keeps patrons dry and happy while they bask in the intimate rooftop vibes with locally sourced cocktails and Watr menu favorites like Hamachi Crudo or the Wagyu beef Watr Burger.

No. 3 Social {50 NW 24th Street, Wynwood; 305.395.5811}
Live music, a vibrant art scene, and innovative cocktails and food come together at Wynwood rooftop hotspot No. 3 Social. The laid-back atmosphere perfectly captures the essence of the Wynwood spirit, and you can admire captivating street art from the comfort of the rooftop bar. No. 3 Social is a fantastic spot to catch up with friends or unwind after dinner with an order of fresh East Coast Oysters On The ½ Shell and a pitcher of Rum Punch.

Vista {5020 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami; 305.405.7547}
The trendy Buena Vista neighborhood is throwing its hat in the South Florida rooftop ring and locals and tourists are here for it. Situated on the second floor of the rustic Italian restaurant by the same name, the rooftop is charming and prime real estate if you’re looking to venture out of the usual touristy neighborhoods. The duo behind Fratelli Milano brings a hidden oasis for those looking for good seasonal cocktails in an intimate setting.

By Kathy Buccio | Contributing Writer

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No More Spice? Not a Problem.

October 25, 2019

3:55 pm