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Home / 2019 (Page 5)

5:07 pm
Tips and Trends
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These in-house eateries aren’t just for tourists

In Miami, we’re no stranger to hotel restaurants, whether it’s a mega-resort catering to visitors or boutique hotels looking to woo locals for a staycation. But finding a good hotel restaurant can often be a challenge. Fortunately, a plethora of exceptional hotel restaurants have sprung up over the past decade, attracting both locals and out-of-towners looking for a beautiful meal in a beautiful setting. Here are our favorites.

Lido Restaurant & Bayside Grill at The Standard

Edge Steak and Bar {Four Seasons Hotel, 1435 Brickell Avenue, Miami; 305.381.3190}

Chef Aaron Brooks helms this modern steakhouse at the Four Seasons downtown which has proven popular among local food lovers and visitors alike. The dining room feels cozy and urbane with a large rectangular-shaped marble bar lit by dangling exposed string lights and white-washed oak tables flanked by cream leather booths.

The kitchen focuses on locally-sourced ingredients that work their way into shellfish starters, hefty slabs of beef, and creative mains like the Basil-Crusted Corvina with piquillo peppers. A gorgeous outdoor terrace offers downtown skyline views.

The Bazaar by Jose Andres {SLS Hotel, 1701 Collins Avenue, Suite 100, Miami Beach; 305.455.2999}

Prepare for sensory overload at this clubby outpost for global tapas and exotic cocktails. Like its LA counterpart, there are two dining rooms: “rojo,” a red and black accented spot in the hotel’s lobby with black leather couches and a bull’s head clad in a lucha libre mask;  and “blanca,” a quieter option adorned with a massive seashell-clad chandelier.

The epic menu contains anywhere from 60-80 items that change daily but can include Bacalao Fritters served in a clear plastic sneaker and a Scallop Risotto presented in a coconut shell.

La Mar {Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami; 305.913.8358}

Peruvian Chef Gaston Acurio’s downtown Miami outpost occupies a gorgeous waterfront spot at Brickell Key’s Mandarin Oriental. The main dining room is awash in shades of watery greens, sandy grays, and beiges and wood, but it’s the enticing outdoor terrace that offers glittering views of downtown. It provides the perfect backdrop to Chef Diego Oka’s contemporary Peruvian dishes with colorful tweaks.

Lido Restaurant & Bayside Grill {The Standard Hotel, 40 Island Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.673.1717}

The Standard’s hipster-friendly pool deck is also home to one of South Beach’s best waterfront patios. Chef Mark Zeitouni’s menu emphasizes Mediterranean dishes that please vegetarians and carnivores alike.

Zuma {Epic Hotel, 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.577.0277}

Upscale Asian dishes compliment a dock crowded with million-dollar yachts. If you’re looking to indulge, reserve a spot during their weekend brunch where the restaurant rolls out nearly the entire menu: buffets of endless fresh sushi, skewers of marinated beef and vegetables from the robata grill, and prepared salads. Then there’s a bottomless glass of Louis Roederer Champagne in addition to Bloody Marys made with robata-grilled tomatoes. And it all goes perfectly with the waterfront views of downtown. 

By Sara Liss, contributing writer

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3:44 pm
Recipes Tips and Trends
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Miami’s cocktail culture is constantly evolving and has touted everything from craft concoctions to personality-driven bars with celeb chef credibility. But despite all the homemade bitters and artisanal shrubs, one thing remains the same: the bigger and more outrageous, the better; and the cocktail world is no exception. So herewith, we bring you the most over-the-top cocktail vessels we’ve seen around town—the perfect specimens to blow up your Instagram (and get you buzzed). Bottoms up!

Pao by Paul Qui {3201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.655.5630}

Pao Unicorn
Horn King at Pao by Paul Qui

Pao by Paul Qui’s Unicorn Cocktail glass is used for the “Horn King” cocktail—made with Bacardi 8 Rum, luxardo maraschino cherries, passion fruit, lime, and Hamilton 151 Rum Flaming Shell. It pays homage to the $6 million Damien Hirst golden unicorn statue that lords over the dining room. Pro tip: the cup is meant for the Horn King cocktail, but you can request any drink to be served in this stylish copper glass. Stubborn Seed {101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.322.5211}

Sweet Liberty {237 20th Street, Suite B, Miami Beach; 305.763.8217}

Industry insiders can always be found at South Beach hangout spot Sweet Liberty where “The Bear Hug,” a concoction made with Barr Hill gin, raw honey, yellow Chartreuse, fresh pressed apple cider, lemon juice, and Prosecco, is presented in a glass gummy bear jar festooned with lemon and fresh mint. It’s the perfectly refreshing and whimsical way to cool down this summer.

Kiki On The River {450 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 786.502.3243}

Miami River hotspot Kiki on the River takes inspiration from its sea-friendly setting with the “Roman’s Conch,” a  cocktail made for 4-6 people and served inside a ceramic conch shell made with Santa Teresa 1796 Rum, Velvet Falernum, Oloroso Sherry, passion fruit, fresh lime juice, freh grapefruit juice, and bitters ($65).

By Sara Liss, contributing writer

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8:52 am
Restaurant Features
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Seared scallops with mushroom duxelles and crispy kale

First impressions matter, and at Vista, it’s impossible to leave unimpressed. The chic chef-driven restaurant in Upper Buena Vista is unlike any other, given its sprawling patio seating that includes a rooftop lounge. The seafood-forward, vegetable-focused menu offers varied selections that wow diners on all fronts.

Because of the diverse offerings, patrons of all palates should have no issue finding something they like. Starters are plentiful and perfectly portioned. Items like the Hot Ginger Shrimp with Fresno peppers and the Zucchini Flowers stuffed with smoked eggplant are delectable and will have you fighting over the last piece. The easy solution is to order a second helping, but, of course, that leaves less room for other standouts like the Artichokes and Verts, a hearty mixed greens salad that also features avocado and a subtle yet tasty lemon vinaigrette (it’s a meal in itself).

More than a dozen mains are available to bring your meal full circle, including a beautiful Branzino with spinach and heirloom tomato butter. It may sound simple on paper (especially compared to other entrées), but the dynamic flavors tell another tale; don’t overlook this masterpiece.

Another highlight: Seared Scallops with mushroom duxelles and crispy kale. What really brings the dish together is the boniato purée, which makes for an ideal complement to the tender shellfish. Landlubbers need not worry, as Wagyu Bavette, Duck Tagliatelle, and the beloved Vista Burger are just a few of the many non-seafood options that grace the menu.

Should you save room for dessert, the Crème Brûlée and Panna Cotta are both lighter dishes that should satisfy your sweet tooth without too much guilt. But frankly, you’re more than likely ready to call it a night at this point in the meal.

Don’t leave without a drink from the expansive drink list, however. Cocktails tend to lean on the light and sweet side here—you’ll find a lot of fruit names in the ingredients—but there are also libations with a bit of bite, such as the bourbon-based Stone Sour.

Ultimately, Vista is a place best frequented in a group. The menu is long and diverse, and coming with a big party allows you to make the most of it. That said, couples and solo diners can still do some damage; the temptation to order a lot of food is very real. One thing’s for sure regardless of your party size: Repeat visits are in order. 

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson, contributing writers

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1:13 pm
Restaurant Features
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Octopus with potato lobster rouille and watercress gazpacho

Blink, and you’ll miss it. Alloy Bistro Gourmet, located in the heart of Downtown Miami, is a bit hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city, but eagle-eyed visitors are in for a treat. Inside this cozy eatery, expect nothing short of an unforgettable meal by Chef Federico Genovese, who’s been cooking up inspired Mediterranean fare here since 2016 (before Downtown Miami became the culinary hotspot it is today).

On the menu, you’ll find an array of options, from starters like Baby Spinach salad, Burrata, and Cauliflower, as well as heartier plates such as Beef Tartare and Octopus. While these items may sound familiar, you’ll see that there’s more than meets the eye once you read the descriptions. That octopus, for example, is more than just octopus—the plate is spiced up with potato lobster rouille and watercress gazpacho; creativity that extends to its presentation under a smoky bell jar, which is destined to show up on your next Instagram post.

If you only order one starter though, make it the Duck Prosciutto. Aged for three months, the duck is simply seasoned with freshly ground black pepper. There’s not much to it, yet there’s no need for anything more, showcasing flavors that easily stand on their own.

Dishes at Alloy Bistro Gourmet are designed for sharing, and there’s good reason for that: You’ll be tempted to try a lot of things. This is especially true of the pastas, of which there are several, and all of them bear a description that should make your mouth water. As we found out firsthand, they’ll also challenge your palate and preconceptions.

An eye-opening experience for us was the Smoked Tagliatelle. Although it contains short rib ragu—not an unfamiliar ingredient—our interest was piqued by the use of paprika oil. Our curiosity paid off, as we encountered a taste that we hadn’t come across before…one that almost made us order a second portion.

Another pasta highlight: the Ravioli Carciofo, which comes out looking like a beautiful flower. And don’t get us started on the Branzino Filet that arrives to your table inside a salted crust. That’s what makes Alloy special: Your food doesn’t just taste great—it looks great, too.

Too many times, a restaurant relies on gimmicks or outlandish flare to make up for lackluster food, but at Alloy Bistro Gourmet, there’s a rhyme and reason to every single detail. Ultimately, these efforts result in an unforgettable dining experience…an experience you’ll be rushing to share with your peers.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson, contributing writers

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10:15 am
Tips and Trends
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Not always so easy to find… but worth it when you do.

Seaspice on the Miami River

It’s a Miami-specific conundrum: so much water surrounding us, yet so few spots to actually enjoy it. But thankfully, there are many places that have been taking advantage of their waterfront locations for years and a few newer ones that have popped up recently to maximize that alfresco potential. We indulged in the views and all the fresh seafood to bring you this list of our favorite waterfront dining in the city.

Upscale Asian dishes complement a dock crowded with million-dollar yachts. If you’re looking to indulge, reserve a spot during their weekend brunch where the restaurant rolls out almost the entire menu: buffets of endless fresh sushi, skewers of marinated beef and vegetables from the robata grill, and prepared salads. Then there’s a bottomless glass of Louis Roederer Champagne in addition to Bloody Marys made with robata-grilled tomatoes. And it all goes perfectly with the waterfront views of downtown. 

La Mar {500 Brickell Key Drive, Downtown; 305.913.8358}

Peruvian Chef Gaston Acurio’s downtown Miami outpost occupies a gorgeous waterfront spot at Brickell Key’s Mandarin Oriental. The main dining room is awash in shades of watery greens, sandy grays, creamy beiges, and polished wood, but it’s the enticing outdoor terrace that offers glittering views of downtown. It provides the perfect backdrop to Chef Diego Oka’s contemporary Peruvian dishes with colorful tweaks.

Mondrian South Beach {1100 West Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.514.1910}

On Sundays, the place feels a bit like a Jay-Z video with bikini-clad pool lovers waving at the massive yachts that cruise the hotel’s enviable bayfront location. But during the week, the scene is more sedate with downtown skyscrapers twinkling in the distance and Mondrian Caffe’s menu of crowd-pleasing dishes like Kale Caesar and grilled skirt steak to keep you satisfied.

Garcia’s Seafood Grille and Fish {398 Northwest North River Drive, Downtown; 305.375.0765}

This Miami institution has been doing it right for years. Fresh seafood, reliable service, and a steady stream of locals tucking into platters of stone crabs and poached shrimp. Putter up to the back of the restaurant where waiters provide service directly onto the boats.

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Downtown; 305.440.4200}

This two-building complex on the Miami River has already proven a hit with downtown’s well-heeled crowd. The restaurant’s large warehouse-like windows roll up giving the dining room a pleasant indoor-outdoor feel. The history of the spot dates back to Howard Huges, apparently it was his seaplane hangar and still has the rusted rigging intact to prove it. A dock that spans 250 feet with an additional dock across the river has hosted its share of mega-yachts that (sometimes) block the river views.

Kiki On The River {450 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 786.502.3243}

And right next door is this boho-chic modern Greek taverna with those same Miami River views, this time framed by whitewashed nautical seating, lush greenery, and trees festooned with glass orbs. Chef Steven Rhee whips up food of the gods with mezzes, grilled seafood, lamb chops, and luscious feta-topped salads. 

Artisan Beach House {10295 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour; 305.455.5400}

The restaurant at Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour’s classy spot is the stuff of postcards.  The gorgeous sprawling dining room features floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean and the busy Haulover inlet, where speedboats regularly putter by. Whitewashed walls and comfortable leather booths balance the grandeur of the setting, but the best spot to dine is still the outdoor patio where ocean breezes mingle with views of Haulover marina and the bar’s loungey soundtrack. The seafood-centric menu features quinoa tuna poke and charred octopus with Vadouvan carrots.

Duffy’s Sports Grill {3969 Northeast 163rd Street, North Miami Beach; 305.760.2124}

This massive restaurant-lounge has a whopping 200 flatscreens, an outdoor pool, and a 500-foot dock. Located on the west side of the intra-coastal waterway, Duffy’s is known as a sports-watching haven and a popular happy hour spot. Extensive covered patio seating makes it an ideal spot to take in the salty breezes.

By Sara Liss, contributing writer

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9:00 am
Restaurant Features
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And it’s not even Miami Spice yet

There’s something almost mystical about the Faena Miami Beach. Spread across four blocks on and around Collins Avenue, this opulent destination isn’t just a hotel; it’s a district. Along with rooms and leisure spaces fitted with floor-to-ceiling Juan Gatti wall murals, Alberto Garruti-designed chandeliers, and colorful, mosaic floors, the Faena comes with its own beach club, nightly Cirque du Soleil-like cabaret performances, a shopping complex, and one of the best spas in South Florida: the 22,000-square-foot Tierra Santa Healing House. 

Of course, as you explore it all, you’ll no doubt need to stop and refuel—and when it comes to restaurants, the Faena Miami Beach does not disappoint. Choose between authentic Argentine live-fire cooking at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann {3201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.655.5610}and out-of-the-box Asian cuisine at Pao by Paul Qui {3201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.655.5600}. Giving you a reason to go there right now, both spots are offering summer prix-fixe menus from now until July 31. Bonus? All of the restaurants’ top dishes will be on the menu.

Local Snapper “A La Plancha” at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann

At Los Fuegos, guests can find out why South America’s most celebrated chef, Francis Mallmann, is so celebrated. Here, get a modern take on traditional Argentine fare; think: roasted meats, fish, vegetables, and even charred desserts cooked in an open-fire kitchen. Available for both dinner and lunch, the summer prix-fixe menu includes three courses of the restaurant’s most raved-about plates, like Wood Oven Empanadas, Yellowfin Tuna Crudo, Black Angus Skirt Steak, Local Snapper “A La Plancha,” Roasted Cauliflower, Key Lime Crumble, and more. The summer lunch menu is priced at $29 per person and is available Monday through Friday. The summer dinner menu is priced at $48 per person and is available Sunday through Thursday.

Fried Chicken at Pao by Paul Qui

Go to Pao, with overlooks the hotel’s “Path of the Warrior” and promises views of the Atlantic Ocean, and get a taste of James Beard Award-winning Paul Qui’s innovative take on Asian food. This summer, stop by for dinner and indulge in a four-course menu with popular dishes like Fried Chicken, Smoked Short Rib Laab, Sisig Rice, Roasted Fish, and Coconut Tapioca. The summer dinner menu is priced at $55 per person and is available every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Happy dining!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

9:00 am
Tips and Trends
0

Get your Spice warm-up in July.

Lobster Bar Sea Grille Miami Beach

Who’s ready to eat?!

Miami Spice is the most wonderful time of year for South Florida foodies. Created by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, this two-month promotion highlights some of Miami’s top, often most expensive restaurants by offering prix-fixe lunch, brunch, and dinner menus at affordable prices. Every meal is three courses, with lunch and brunch priced at $23 per person and dinner priced at $39 per person.

Since the inception of the Miami Spice Restaurant Program in 2001, an estimated one million Miami Spice meals have been served all over the Magic City. Now in its 18th year, the program will kick-off on August 1 and run through September 30, 2019. With more than 200 restaurants participating in every Miami neighborhood—like Miami Beach, Brickell, Downtown, Coral Gables, South Miami, Wynwood, Sunny Isles, Bal Harbour, and beyond—this is a great opportunity for locals and visitors alike to get a taste of Miami’s diverse, ever-evolving, and delicious culinary scene for a steal.

Lucky for diners, you don’t have to wait until August 1 to see what’s in store. All participating Miami Spice restaurants and their menus can be found here. Plus, read below for two exciting Miami Spice events that are open to the public. 

Thursday, July 18: Miami Spice Mash-Up with Ariete x Fooq’s Collab

Join Chef Michael Beltran of Ariete {3540 Main Highway, Coconut Grove; 305.640.5862} and Chef Victoriano Hernandez of Fooq’s {1035 N Miami Avenue, Miami; 786.536.2749} as they create a one-night-only menu that pairs Ariete’s New American style with Fooq’s Persian-French influences. Taking place at Ariete, this Miami Spice event will highlight dishes from the upcoming Spice menus at both restaurants. All three courses will feature one dish from each chef, and the meal will include cocktails from Miami Spice sponsors Stella Artois, JNSQ Rose, JNSQ Sauvignon, and ABSOLUT® JUICE Strawberry & Apple. This event is priced at $55 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations can be made by sending an email to [email protected].

Wednesday, July 31: Miami Spice Kick-Off Event

Celebrate everything Spice with a culinary tasting experience featuring bites from a selection of Miami Spice restaurants, as well as live entertainment and wine, beer, and cocktails from participating sponsors. This event will take place at Jungle Island {111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami; 305.400.7000}. Tickets are priced at $50 per person for general admission and $100 per person for VIP. VIP tickets include complimentary drinks from sponsors. All tickets can be purchased here.

Happy dining!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

9:00 am
Restaurant Features
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Check out the latest dining news and events, all happening in Miami this week

StripSteak by Michael Mina at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Here is this week’s Miami food news:

All Week Long: Let’s Do Lunch at Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante
Every Monday through Friday, from Noon to 4 p.m., get a three-course lunch for just $24 at Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante {1801 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.531.2228}.

Tuesday, July 9: Interactive Wine Dinner with Beaulieu Vineyard at BLT Prime 
This Tuesday, go to BLT Prime Miami {4400 NW 87 Avenue, Doral; 305.591.6606} and kick off a series of six monthly dinners created to showcase the best in global food and wine. On this night, BLT Prime’s Chef de Cuisine Tim Elmore will create a custom four-course menu to pair with wines from Beaulieu Vineyard, in Napa Valley. Dinner will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. in the restaurant’s Nicklaus Private Dining Room, and will be led by both Chef Elmore and a representative from Beaulieu Vineyard. Click here to see the full, one-night-only dinner menu and accompanying wines.

Thursday, July 11: Cigar Social at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Every Thursday, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., head to StripSteak by Michael Mina {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}for delicious spirit and cigar pairings on the outdoor terrace. All guests who attend will get to taste three expressions of Aberfeldy Scotch, while mixologists educate them on the choice of scotch and cigar pairing. This event is priced at $25 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Happy dining!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

9:00 am
Recipes
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A new summer cocktail at BLT Prime

Next time you’re in Doral, make sure you stop by BLT Prime {4400 NW 87 Avenue, Doral; 305.591.6606} and try a Monkey on the Shoulder. Because we know you’ll love it, we’ve included the recipe below.

Here’s how it’s made:

Fill a shaker with ice. Pour 2 ounces Monkey Shoulder, a 1/2 ounce of pear liqueur, a 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, 3/4 of an ounce of lemon juice, and a dash of orange bitters. Shake it 4 times. Strain over ice. Garnish with an orange twist and 2 raspberries.

12:12 pm
Restaurant Features
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Take your tastebuds on a trip next Tuesday, July 9

We always have a reason to go to BLT Prime Miami {4400 NW 87 Avenue, Doral; 305.591.6606}. Located in the Trump National Doral, and boasting unrivaled views of the prestigious Blue Monster golf course, this modern American steakhouse serves a menu of top-quality steaks, seafood, New and Old-World wines, and handcrafted cocktails that loyal patrons crave. And starting next week, we’re excited to share something new to get excited about at the Doral mainstay: an interactive wine dinner with vintner Beaulieu Vineyard on Tuesday, July 9. 

This event is just the first of a series of six monthly dinners that were created to showcase the best in global food and wine. On one Tuesday each month through December 2019, BLT Prime’s Chef de Cuisine Tim Elmore will create a custom four-course menu to pair with wines from a handpicked visiting winery. Each dinner will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. in the restaurant’s Nicklaus Private Dining Room, and will be led by both Chef Elmore and representatives from the chosen vintner. The series will highlight revered wine regions like Argentina, Tuscany, Sicily, California, and Spain, and Chef Elmore will provide tasting notes and insight into the flavor profiles of every paired course. 

Next Tuesday, the first wine dinner will take guests on a culinary journey to Napa Valley, where Beaulieu Vineyard has been producing leading varietals of chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot since 1900. Click here to see the full, one-night-only dinner menu and accompanying wines.

After you love the first dinner, mark your calendars for the rest! Here are the dates and featured winemakers for the remainder of the 2019 Wine Dinner series:

Tuesday, August 6: Susana Balbo Wines
Tuesday, September 10: Ricasoli
Tuesday, October 8: Donnafugata
Tuesday, November 5: Michael Mondavi Family Estate
Tuesday, December 10: Celler Vall Llach

Tickets are priced at $135 per person and can be purchased online or by calling the restaurant. 

Happy dining!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor