If you haven’t already, it’s now time to fine-tune your mixology skills. Miami’s internationally famed Osaka Cocina Nikkei, which also has several outposts in South America and will soon hop across the pond to London, is here to help you with these two unique cocktail recipes. Boasting inventive flavors that merge two seemingly different but really complementary cultures, its Japanese-Peruvian menu features dishes like tuna ceviche, salmon tiradito and duck confit gyozas. Its cocktail menu is just as interesting with recipes that mix unusual, but exciting ingredients. Try these out at home to impress your roommate, partner or family, and let us know which one is your favorite.
Mr. Osaka
Ingredients
1.75 oz rum
0.25 oz citrus bitter
1 oz naranjilla (lulo) mix
0.5 oz passion fruit juice
0.75 basil syrup
2 oz tonic water
1 bunch of rosemary
1 unit of banana leaves
7 cubes of ice
Procedure
Put all of the ingredients except the tonic water into a Boston shaker with ice and shake gently.
Serve with a double strain into the glass.
Cover the glass with a banana leaf, then fill with rosemary smoke.
Fakku U
Ingredients
1.75 oz scotch
0.25 oz house shrub
0.50 oz kumquat – Andean mint syrup
2 dash cacao bitter
1 dash orange bitter
1 dash liquid salt
6 oz ice
6 oz big ice cube
1 unit dehydrated mint
Procedure
Add all of the ingredients into a mixing glass and stir. Place the large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass and add cocktail. Place dehydrated mint branch on top of ice and serve.
MK Takeaways is a family-owned food service concept delivering fresh, made-from-scratch, chef-prepared meals. Owned and operated by Michael and Karen Stanley, this local business serves South Florida’s Tri-County every week, Monday through Friday.
With Michael’s fifteen years of restaurant experience and Karen’s business savvy, the Miami-born hospitality mavens are ready to entice your taste buds with their creations. The MK Takeaways menu has been in development for years and centers around dishes that embrace flavor and comfort. Overflowing with options, the rotating, seasonally inspired menu boasts classic American dishes with touches from the Mediterranean.
Photo/RMStudio Corp
Available in single servings or for families of four to six, all dishes are started in their Sunrise kitchen where professional chefs prepare and place each dish into quality packaging that guarantees everything arrives fresh, holds up to high heat in residential ovens, and can stay refrigerated for up to six days from delivery. Once your delivery arrives, all you have to do is pop it into your oven or follow the dish’s preparation instructions. It’s really the best of both worlds – the ease of restaurant ordering and the quality of home cooking.
The menu is organized, as it would be at a restaurant, into starters, soups, salads, entrees, sandwiches, and desserts. Starters include a Mediterranean Salad including a feta & artichoke salad, tabbouleh, hummus and more; Spinach & Artichoke Dip with homemade tortilla chips; GrilledChicken Wings tossed in Asian BBQ, Lime Chipotle, Honey Garlic or Rosemary Jalapeno sauce. Sandwiches include the Bayou Spicy Chicken Sandwich with remoulade slaw; Salmon Burger with chipotle aioli and the vegetarian-friendly Quinoa Burger to name a few. Entrée highlights feature the Oh My Cod Beer Battered Fish & Chips; Broccoli Rabe & Sausage Orecchiette with lemon basil sauce and pecorino; and BBQ Baby Back Ribs with tamarind BBQ, roasted beets and kale apple slaw. Sides include Charred Broccolini; Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes; Cottage Fries and Coleslaw, among others. And don’t forget desserts like the Sea Salt Brownies,Dulce de Leche Pot de Creme, Vanilla Panna Cotta, and a Seasonal Fruit Tart.
Photo/RMStudio Corp
Access the menu and order here: www.mktakeaways.com. If you love it, become part of the MK Takeaways loyalty program and receive a variety of incentives. You can also order through a variety of delivery services including Postmates, Seamless, Grubhub and Uber Eats.
The MK Takeaways commissary kitchen is located at 12691 West Sunrise Blvd in Sunrise, Florida. Telephone: (954) 669-1366; www.mktakeaways.com. Follow MK Takeaways on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @mktakeaways.
Looking to enjoy some delicious flavor al fresco? Add these South Florida restaurants to your list. Each offers outdoor seating in a beautiful setting, so you can practice social distancing while satisfying your cravings. From comfort food with riverfront views to authentic Cuban cuisine, and happy hour specials you’ll be hard-pressed to beat, these seven picks will get you through the week.
Vista
This favorite dining spot in Miami’s hip Upper Buena Vista neighborhood is a great option for outdoor dining. The restaurant’s beautiful courtyard is lush, breezy, and romantic, even when you’re practicing social distancing. The menu spotlights Mediterranean dishes with a twist, like locally sourced burrata with fresh tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette, grilled peaches served with stracciatella, pasta stuffed with pear and Taleggio cheese, and more.
Details: Vista is located at 5020 NE 2nd Ave, Miami. To make a reservation, call (305) 405-7547.
Le Zoo
If you’re in the mood for tantalizing French cuisine, head to Le Zoo at Bal Harbor Shops. Grab a seat on their charming patio — it’ll transport you to the south of France — and indulge in some savory onion soup, steak tartare, or taglioni. And if you’re craving something a little more familiar, opt for the Burger Americain. It’s hands-down one of the best burgers in the area.
Details: Le Zoo is located at 9700 Collins Ave #135, Miami Beach. To make a reservation, call (305) 602-9663.
Phuc Yea
Dine amidst the flower in Phuc Yea’s lush and whimsical lantern garden, where comfy patio seating blends with classic Vietnamese architecture. Whether you drop by for Sunday brunch or an intimate dinner with your special someone, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy Asian- and Latin-inspired dishes like curried coconut mussels, crispy masitas de puerco, char sui sticky riblets, and Phuc Yea’s fan-favorite special pho. You can also take advantage of daily deals, like $1 oysters all week, a $25 three-course meal on Pho Wednesdays, a fried chicken special on Thursdays, and happy hour specials from 5-10 p.m.
Details: Phuc Yea is located at 7100 Biscayne Blvd, Miami. To make a reservation, call (305) 602-3710 or visit OpenTable.
Calle 23 Miami
When your cravings for traditional Cuban food start to set in, make a reservation at Calle 23 on Miracle Mile. The outdoor dining area channels major tropical vibes, while the menu delivers on big flavor from Havana to el Oriente. Enjoy happy hour drink specials on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. until closing time, or visit on Wednesday for $5 mojitos. On Thursdays, ladies enjoy complimentary champagne from 8 p.m. on. And on Saturdays and Sundays, Calle 23 serves brunch from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. with bottomless mimosas for $19.
Details: Calle 23 Miami is located at 230 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. To make a reservation, call (786) 325-3474 or visit Calle23miami.com/contact.
Bellini Restaurant & Bar
Savor gorgeous views of Biscayne Bay from the lavish rooftop terrace of Bellini Restaurant & Bar, located at Mr. C Miami-Coconut Grove. The menu here highlights Italian specialties like burrata with heirloom tomatoes, tender gnocchi alla bellini, and traditional lasagna served with a hearty bolognese sauce.
Details: Bellini Restaurant & Bar is located at 2988 McFarlane Road, Miami. To make a reservation, call (305) 800-7672.
The Ocean Grill and Jaya Courtyard at The Setai Miami Beach
The Ocean Grill
Feast on Mediterranean-inspired wood-grilled goodness just steps away from the beach at The Ocean Grill. Recently reopened, the al fresco restaurant just launched a new three-course summer menu priced at just $33 per person and available daily from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. It features delicious options like strawberry gazpacho with mint, fried calamari with key lime aioli, chicken paillard paired with a caper citronette dressing, yellowtail snapper with smoked paprika potatoes and more. And if you’d like to try Jaya’s Miami Spice menu by Chef Vijayudu Veena’s, launching July 16, head to Jaya Courtyard and savor starters like salmon tartar with chili citrus dressing, entrees like snapper topped with tamarind sauce and Thai basil, and desserts like hot chocolate served with house-made toasted marshmallow.
Details: The Ocean Grill and Jaya are located at The Setai, Miami Beach, 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. To make a reservation, call (855) 923-7899.
LPM Restaurant & Bar
With summer in full swing, there’s no better way to finish your week than with a visit to LPM Restaurant & Bar. Equipped with plenty of outdoor seating, the acclaimed restaurant has just launched L’été en Rosé Sundays, where guests can enjoy glasses of rosé starting at $9 and bottles starting at $45. Pair your pink with French Mediterranean flavors, like duck a l’Orange, ratatouille with feta, cool salmon carpaccio, and more. What’s more, LPM is also offering a Miami Spice dinner menu five nights a week from Sunday through Thursday.
Details: LPM Restaurant & Bar is located at 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami. To make a reservation, call (305) 403-9133.
American Social
Photo by Adorned Photography
American Social is all about elevated sports bar classics, like their super juicy AmSo Burger, black truffle pizza, soft-baked pretzels, and addictive steak frites. Their weekend brunch is also legendary, and the perfect spot to enjoy mimosas while digging into country-fried chicken and waffles and eggs benedict. They offer plenty of covered outdoor seating offering sweeping views of the Miami River, so you can pair every delicious bite with picture-perfect views.
Details: American Social is located at 690 SW 1st Ct, Miami. To make a reservation, call (305) 223-7004.
There’s nothing like a cool, frosty treat to give you respite from sweaty Miami summers (and most other seasons here for that matter) and to make you feel like a kid again – the bright colors and the cold, yummy goodness dripping down your fingers as you lick down to the crunchy cone. Take a break to treat yourself at one of these top five ice cream and popsicle spots in Miami.
Morelia Gourmet Paletas
A paleta is a popsicle and Morelia’s are definitely not the push-pop or plastic snip-top kind from your childhood. These are gourmet Mexican paletas made with fresh ingredients into 16 flavors like pistachio, mango, Belgian chocolate, banana filled with Nutella, and many more. Dip and top your paleta with signature toppings like s’mores, marshmallow fluff torched and Nutella drizzle. So many choices mean you never have to have the same paleta twice. Morelia is even selling Do-It-Yourself Paleta Kits for a fun family activity from home! Choose a four or eight-pack kit, which comes with your choice of paleta flavors and different dippings and toppings.
Several locations: Coral Gables, Wynwood, Aventura Mall, Surfside, Hollywood; Coming soon: Aventura Commons, Coconut Grove, Doral, Lincoln Road. paletasmorelia.com
Nabati
Saving the planet while eating ice cream turns a guilty pleasure into guilt-free pleasure. Nabati’s homemade, 100% plant-based ice cream is made from scratch using only organic ingredients like cashews and coconuts, and superfoods. Their creamy, delicious ice creams come in intriguing mix of flavors like Golden Scoop (ginger, tumeric, coconut, and cinnamon) and Shnickers (rich chocolate with peanuts and caramel); traditional flavors like brownie and strawberry; and even vanilla mango almond and cookie dough laced with CBD. Milkshakes, smoothies and bowls on the menu will guarantee you stay cool all summer long and feel good about doing it.
Pickup and delivery only; order by calling (305) 456-2114; 317 NW 25th Street, Miami; nabatiicecream.com
Chug’s Cuban Diner
Ice cream is not the first thing that comes to mind at a Cuban eatery, but at Chug’s their homemade ice cream is part of the charm. Executive Pastry Chef Devin Braddock melds local, seasonal and classic ingredients to whip up one-of-a-kind flavors like the Snacc Attack, made with Captain Crunch cereal, toffee, and chocolate pretzels; Coconut Hazelnut Praline, Strawberry Malt, Jojo Black Tea & Duck Fat, and Creme Fraiche Stracciatella. Chug’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. so grab a croqueta, Cuban sandwich, or abuela’s plate any time and take some of that ice cream to go.
Takeout and limited outdoor seating; 3444 Main Highway, Coconut Grove; (786) 534-8722; chugsdiner.com
Ladyfingrs Popsicles
Ladyfingrs’ colorful, outdoor push carts and festive popsicles will draw you in as you stroll through Miami’s Design District or Aventura Mall. There’s a surprise in every bite of these natural, handmade gelato pops filled with the freshest local fruits (Coconut Water and Fruits – a summer favorite) and other unique treats – like an entire Oreo or an edible purple orchid petal in the Lychee Rose Water. Order them by the box with an assortment of flavors for local delivery or you can even order ahead for curbside pickup of single pops at the Design District cart. Get creative and snap a pic before you enjoy them because they look as good as they taste.
Design District (152 NE 41st Street): push cart located right next to the Prada Store; Aventura Mall (19501 Biscayne Boulevard): push cart located at the new wing of the mall, 1st floor, outside area by the Sling Tower and restaurants. Order online or by calling (305) 970-9252; ladyfingrs.com
Bianco Gelato
In Italy, gelato is a tradition, and you can get a taste of it right here in Miami. Bianco Gelato’s old-fashioned gelato is made in small batches locally for authentic, handcrafted flavors. They have several vegan and low-sugar options made with stevia and other organic, Kosher-certified ingredients, and steer clear of GMO’s, artificial ingredients and chemicals. Vegan popsicles can also be found on the menu with refreshing flavors like pineapple and mint, lemon and mango, perfect for a hot day. Stop by one of their three locations (open daily 1 to 9 p.m. for takeout) or order delivery of pre-packaged pops and small cups of ice cream a day in advance.
Locations in Bal Harbour Shops (9700 Collins Avenue), Coconut Grove (3137 Commodore Plaza), The Citadel foodhall (8300 NE 2nd Avenue); call or text (305) 458-4455 to order delivery biancogelato.com
The W South Beach’s signature restaurant, Mr. Chow, had recently reopened until it had to briefly close its doors again last week due to a minor electrical fire. While we wait for the famed Chinese restaurant to welcome us back August 1, we can create one of its savory dishes at home. This easy-to-make recipe will make a perfect addition to your Fourth of July menu.
5 Spice Tofu Salad
Serving size: 4
Ingredients: Approx. 1/2 package dried tofu (or 2 big pieces) 1 stalk celery 1/2 tsp red pepper 2 tbsp minced garlic 1 tsp hoisin sauce 1/2 tsp chili oil 1/2 tsp sesame oil 1/2 tsp Tabasco® 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1/2 tsp garlic chili paste 1/2 light soy sauce Pinch of crushed dried chili
Cooking method: 1. Peel and slice celery. Remove the pepper’s seeds and slice. 2. Boil tofu in salt water for five minutes, then let cool and slice. 3. Add minced garlic, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, chili oil, Tabasco®, Worcestershire sauce, garlic chili paste, light soy sauce and crushed dried chili to sliced tofu and mix. 4. Finally, mix in the sliced celery and sliced red pepper.
This year’s 4th of July might be remembered for watching fireworks from home and restrictions on gathering, but that’s no reason you can’t get out there (responsibly) and celebrate our American freedom – with masks and social distancing, of course. Here are four recommendations for spending the summer holiday enjoying liberty, delicious food and libations.
The Deck at Island Gardens
The Deck at Island Gardens will be celebrating with a weekend happy hour and holiday-themed menu specials. On July 4, dine on classics with a twist: lobster rolls, kobe beef sliders and there’s nothing more American than chicken wings and hot dogs. Sunday’s popular brunch offers salty and sweet options: lobster eggs benedict, berry pancakes, or the ultimate American creation – the Deck’ed Out Burger. A Sparkling Happy Hour from 4 to 6 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday will leave you refreshed as you take in the serene view from the ample al fresco dining area covered by shade, with outdoor fans to keep the breeze flowing.
A hidden paradise awaits at this beach restaurant on the far end of Jungle Island. Dine on a European-inspired menu with views of crystalline waters and the iconic Miami skyline. Make a date of it by starting with a visit to Jungle Island – strolling through nature exhibits and encountering wildlife – and ending with a romantic meal at Joia Beach sharing small plates of fresh halibut crudo, Turkish octopus and gambas al ajillo. Don’t miss out! Due to COVID-19 restrictions they are limiting dining hours to Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 6 p.m. by reservation only.
If the 4th of July isn’t enough reason to celebrate, how about your 101st birthday? In honor of both, The Taurus (formerly Taurus Beer & Whiskey House) is throwing itself a party with plenty of drink specials throughout the day including bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary’s for $25 (noon to 4 p.m.) happy hour cocktails (4 to 8 p.m.) and $15 buckets of PBR (8 p.m. to 2 a.m.). From noon to 4 p.m., the Lazy Oyster pop-up will be at Taurus serving premium oysters (please note oysters are limited). The Ariete brunch menu will also be available for dine-in at Taurus.
With two locations in Wynwood and Coconut Grove (walk over for dessert from The Taurus!), head to Fireman Derek’s for a slice of Flag Pie. Made with their signature hand-rolled flour crust, a glorious combination of blueberry and strawberry pie filling spread evenly atop a thick cheesecake layer, jam-packed with summer berries and decorated to honor our flag’s stars and stripes, it will leave you seeing fireworks. It’s only available for purchase on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4 so run, don’t walk.
Coconut Grove: 3435 Main Highway, Miami; (786) 502-2396; Wynwood: 2818 N. Miami Avenue; (786) 703-3623; firemandereks.com
Born and bred in Miami of Cuban descent, Chef Angel Leon’s passion for cooking developed early in life. He learned hard work and discipline while helping out in his grandparents’ bakeries. At 17 Leon began his professional career at Azul at the Mandarin Oriental, Miami, under James Beard award-winner Michelle Bernstein. By his early 20s, Leon was working under his mentor, renowned Chef Pascal Oudin. After a short stint in New York, Leon returned to Miami and was tapped by Timon Balloo as opening Chef de Cuisine for Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill and then was part of the opening team for Daniel Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne (re-named Boulud Sud.) In 2014, Leon joined Seaspice Brasserie and Lounge as its Executive Chef.
Dining Out: How did the chefs on your path to Seaspice influence your career?
Chef Angel Leon: I am grateful and honored to have worked with great chefs that influenced my career, each one leaving an imprint in my DNA of cooking: the French technique that Chef Pascal Oudin instilled in me, the burst of flavors that Chef Michelle Bernstein engraved in my taste memory and the passion for learning true ethnic flavors that I learned from Chef Timon Balloo.
DO: Tell us about the evolution of the menu at Seaspice since you became Executive Chef?
Chef: We have evolved to bring Miami a menu full of globally inspired influences and the highest quality fare. Our team has traveled the world, dined at the finest restaurants, explored cuisines and flavors from around the globe with the intention of producing a menu that truly embraces classic gastronomy with a modern flare.
We have the highest standards for every ingredient in every dish we prepare. This starts with sourcing the finest organic produce, grass-fed, sustainable, certified Prime meats and Japanese A5 Wagyu beef. As we’re known for our incredible seafood dishes, we source both locally and flown fresh from seas around the world such as the Mediterranean, North Sea and Sea of Japan.
Our menu is at the core of the Seaspice dining experience. Guests may initially come for the ambiance and the views but they return time and time again for the decadent fare.
DO: What is your one essential tool in the kitchen?
Chef: As a chef we are craftsmen and take our tools seriously. My favorite tool is my rational oven.
DO: Why do you think Seaspice is a must-dine experience along the Miami River?
Chef: Well, obviously the location, the atmosphere, the wide selection of food, wine, entertainment and the passion that the Seaspice family projects.
DO: As a Miami native, how have you seen the city’s dining scene change?
Chef: It’s fascinating to see how the food culture has evolved and how Miami continues to strive to be a world-class culinary destination for combinations of flavors you can’t find anywhere else.
Any savvy South Floridian knows Miami Spice is the best time to try out all the great local restaurants you’ve had on your list. After all, deals like these only come once a year. And this year, Spice is running for a record four months — from June 1 through September 30. To help you start planning your local dine around, we’ve put together a list of some of the best spots to try right now, from big hotel names to hidden gems that should be on your radar.
Hotel haunts for the flavor-chasing staycationer
Katsuya South Beach
If you’re looking for a delicious fusion of Latin American flavor and traditional Japanese robata and sushi, Katsuya is just the spot. This iconic restaurant at the SLS Hotel in Miami Beach has so many knockout dishes, like their crispy rice with spicy tuna, vegan watermelon tartar, tangy jidori chicken, and No Soy Sushi selection — and they’re all on the Miami Spice dinner menu. What’s more, their Dragon Lounge hosts a daily happy hour and a Sunday sake special, so time your visit around one of these events.
Katsuya South Beach is located at the SLS Hotel South Beach, 1701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For reservations, call (305) 455-2995.
Los Fuegos at Faena
Steak lovers, “meat” your match. This Miami Beach favorite by Argentine grillmaster Francis Mallmann serves up an unforgettable “asado” experience that shines a spotlight on locally sourced ingredients and expertly prepared steak dishes. You can taste your way through some of the menu’s top-rated options at Miami Spice prices for both lunch and dinner, like organic chicken paillarda, branzino “a la plancha,” and the famous Los Fuegos churrasco steak.
Los Fuegos is located at Faena, 3201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For reservations, call (786) 655-5610
Fontana at The Biltmore
Hands-down one of the most romantic restaurants to enjoy date night al fresco, Fontana at The Biltmore specializes in Italian-inspired cuisine paired with a head-spinning wine list that spans the globe. Their Sunday Champagne Brunch is legendary, but if you just want to drop by for a low-key multi-course meal at a great price, you should definitely stay tuned for more information on their upcoming Miami Spice offerings.
Fontana is located at The Biltmore, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables. For reservations, call (305) 445-1926.
Bourbon Steak at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa
When it comes to the classic American steakhouse experience, Bourbon Steak at Turnberry Isle Hotel is a winner. Most foodies know it best for its butter-poached steaks and duck fat fries, and the plush decor and glitzy ambiance are the perfect way to dress up any special occasion dinner. Right now Bourbon Steak is serving up an amazing Miami Spice dinner menu that includes their signature New York Strip Rossini as one of the options, plus plenty more delicious choices. Come early or linger after your meal with a few cocktails at the bar, where the vibe is as chic and dreamy as the drinks themselves.
Bourbon Steak is located at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, 1999 W Country Club Drive, Miami. For reservations, call (786) 279-6600.
Nikki Beach
You won’t find it inside a hotel, but as far as staycations go few places in Miami are as transportative as Nikki Beach. The original outpost of the iconic brand that has become a mainstay throughout the world, Nikki Beach makes guests feel like they’ve been whisked away to the beach clubs of St. Tropez. Head there now and order their Miami Spice lunch menu, offered Monday through Friday for just $25. Must-try items include the burrata Caprese, the tempura shrimp tacos, and Nikki Beach’s famous chicken satay.
StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach
While dinner at Michael Mina’s award-winning concept is always delicious, StripSteak’s Miami Spice menu offers a well-rounded tasting experience at a great price. Appetizers include options like the BLT wedge salad and shrimp served with a Bombay Sapphire cocktail sauce, and entrees include your choice of miso salmon, slow-braised short rib (our pick) and roasted chicken. Finish your meal with a serving of cool key lime pie or the decadent bananas foster bread pudding.
StripSteak is located at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For reservations, call (877) 326-7412
Zuma Miami at Kimpton EPIC Hotel
Dinner is always an event at Zuma, but we’ve long been fans of their power lunch, beloved by local movers and shakers for years. This Brickell mainstay has brought back its Miami Spice lunch menu, so you can dig into a specially priced feast that includes options like wagyu gyoza, chicken karaage, grilled salmon teriyaki, yuzu pie and more. For $10 extra, you’ll enjoy a sommelier-selected pairing of red or white wine and sake, or you can try two exclusive Miami Spice cocktails priced at $12 each.
Zuma is located at 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami. For reservations, call 305-577-027
Il Mulino New York at Acqualina Resort & Spa
This beautiful oceanfront restaurant at the Acqualina Resort and Spa will whisk you away to Abruzzi, Italy with every sip of wine and bite of burrata. Drop by during the day to enjoy their Miami Spice lunch menu poolside, or come by in the evening for their Miami Spice dinner menu. Each offers foodie favorites, like the polpette di ricotta, hearty cavatelli, fileto di manzo alla Fiorentina, and torta di ricotta, just to name a few.
Il Mulino New York is located at Acqualina Resort & Spa, 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. For reservations, call (305) 466-919
Local gems for the neighborhood foodie
Amare Ristorante
Family-owned and celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine, Amare Ristorante has been a go-to among locals for decades. It’s currently serving a Miami Spice dinner menu that includes tasty apps like gamberi e fagioli and carpaccio di tonno, mains like tagliatelle bolognese, pollo al rosmarino, and branzino ai ferri, and desserts that include a classic homemade tiramisu and a summer-perfect panna cotta made with blueberry custard.
Amare Ristorante is located at 1 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For reservations, call (305) 731-6999
Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante
Sardinia is a great option whether you’re dining with friends, family, or your significant other. Located in Sunset Harbour, this Med-inspired gem focuses on simple, authentic Sardinian food like wood oven-baked veggies, sumptuous selections from a mozzarella bar, a salumeria and formaggi menu, and more. They’re serving Miami Spice menus for lunch and dinner, and each one features great options like the house fregola and arancini, the cartoccio of the day, a refreshing Caprese salad, and the chef’s selection of dessert.
Sardinia is located at 1801 Purdy Ave., Miami Beach. For reservations, call (305) 531-2228.
Blue Collar
Located in Miami’s MiMo district, this no-fuss local eatery features homestyle comfort food that hits the spot — like tostones topped with vaca frita, savory pork and beans, crispy conch fritters, jambalaya, and more. If you dine now during Miami Spice, you’ll enjoy a specially priced three-course meal made up of any apps, entrees, and desserts off the regular menu.
Blue Collar is located at 6730 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. For more information, call (305) 756-0366.
Palat
One of the top restaurants in Miami’s burgeoning Buena Vista neighborhood, Palat specializes in modern Italian cuisine and tasty contemporary dishes that feature fresh-caught seafood, homemade pastas, and more. They’re currently offering Miami Spice menus for lunch and dinner, each with four dishes to choose from in the appetizer and entree sections and two tantalizing desserts options.
Palat is located at 4702 NE 2nd Ave., Miami. For reservations, visit opentable.
Cafe La Trova
Here’s a restaurant that will make you feel like you’re truly on vacation. With its stunning decor and live music every night, it’s a taste of golden-age Havana right here in Little Havana. Their Miami Spice dinner menu features delicious dishes like sweet corn and chicken empanadas, jamon serrano croquetas, lechon con chicharones, skirt steak ropa vieja, the local catch of the day, and creamy, custardy flan.
Cafe La Trova is located at 971 SW 8th Street, Miami. For reservations, call (786) 615-4379.
Diya Indian Kitchen
If great Indian food is what you’re craving, pencil in a meal at family-owned and operated Diya Indian Kitchen in Sunset Harbour. You’ll find plenty of vegetarian options and street food selections on their Miami Spice dinner menu, like aloo bravas, eggplant barta, dhaal tadka, chana masala, and more. Desserts bring a little bit Latin inspiration into the mix — we love the Kashmiri flan and the Ras Malai tres leches. If you’d rather enjoy your food at home, Diya is offering pickup.
Diya Indian Kitchen is located at 1766 Bay Road, Miami Beach. For reservations, call (305) 763-8948.
Estiatorio Milos
Taste your way to the isles of Greece at Estiatorio Milos in Miami Beach’s charming South of Fifth neighborhood. The stars of the menu here are the seafood dishes (like the ceviche and grilled octopus), but you’ll also find plenty to rave about when you try their lamb and steak options. Food is served family-style and many items are prepared right at your table. Estiatorio Milos will be offering a Miami Spice menu soon — keep checking their website and social media for updates.
Estiatorio Milos is located at 730 First Street, Miami Beach. For reservations, call (305) 604-6800.
Esotico
It’s all about tropical tipples and Polynesian-inspired dishes at Esotico. Ask for their Miami Spice dinner menu and you’ll enjoy a welcome cocktail called the Bali Hali — a fizzy blend of rum, rosé brut, and the house Hanalei mix — plus your pick of mouthwatering dishes ranging from beef cho cho to Hawaiian fried rice to Makuahine banana bread pudding. And that’s not all — if you prefer to order goodies from Esotico, the restaurant is currently offering tiki cocktails to go Monday through Friday from 4-6 p.m.
Esotico is located at 1600 NE 1st Ave., Suite 102, Miami. For reservations, call (305) 800-8454.
Restaurants are adding Spice menus every day, so keep checking back for updates and more information.
Just because traveling abroad this summer is on hold doesn’t mean we can’t take a trip to trendy holiday destinations like France and Italy with our palates. The boot-shaped Mediterranean country and its iconic neighbor have plenty of beloved and delicious dishes that you can now enjoy locally. We’ve compiled a star-studded list of eateries to satisfy all your Med cravings.
FRESH & HOMEMADE
by Michelle Wallace
Ravioli di Pesce
Nestled in The Marlin Hotel, you’ll find Osteria del Teatro, a restaurant that’s been serving up fresh pastas, breads and desserts – all homemade daily – for more than 30 years. This Northern Italian restaurant prides itself on using only the finest and freshest ingredients, making it a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike. Start off with a delicious assortment of bread followed by plates piled high with standout favorites like the fettucine alla carbonara, pappardelle ai granchi, and ravioli de pesce. Round out your meal with a selection from the dessert case including a flourless double chocolate cake or a vanilla bean crème brûlée.
REASON TO CELEBRATE
by Caner Kocamez
Bringing the Amalfi Coast flair to Miami Beach, Amare offers guests southern Italian classics and Mediterranean flavors. For those who want small bites and a cocktail, the restaurant’s happy hour is available and offers plenty of crowd-pleasers. On the weekend, brunch lovers will enjoy Amare’s Sunday brunch. The restaurant’s perfect location in the heart of the South of Fifth neighborhood makes it an ideal destination to relax, unplug and indulge.
A CULINARY JOURNEY
by Caner Kocamez
Sardinia’s charcuterie
A beach staple, Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante has been welcoming diners with restaurateur Antonio “Tony” Gallo and Chef Pietro Vardeu’s vision for years. Although the restaurant is popular for happy hour, the best way to experience what Sardinia has to offer is to enjoy the tasting menu. A multi-course culinary journey, the menu combines dishes like arancini and paella di mare. Every dish is paired with an outstanding glass of Italian wine.
THE FRENCH RIVIERA
by Caner Kocamez
There are not many restaurants that can create a unique atmosphere to completely transport you to another place. Located at the heart of Miami Beach’s chic South of Fifth neighborhood, Call Me Gaby manages to make you feel like you’re vacationing in the French Riviera. The outdoor patio is decorated with striped umbrellas, colorful pillows, light wood furniture, candles and flowers, which capture the true spirit of southern France. Complementing the ambiance, the menu offers appetizers like carpaccio di bresaola and burrata alongside plenty of pasta entrée dishes and homemade gourmet pizzas.
EXQUISITE CUISINE
By Sara Liss
Miami Photographer
Villa Azur, a popular French-Mediterranean spot, is known for its exclusive lively experience featuring avant-garde parties, eclectic entertainment, performers and themed decor. But it is the exquisite cuisine that brings guests back to those plush sofas and gorgeous courtyard. Dishes like ahi tuna in a sweet pepper-almond sauce and ravioles in truffle cream exhibit an elevated approach to French cuisine. It all pairs nicely with the restaurant’s signature cocktail, made with G.H. Mumm Brut, raspberry purée and limoncello.
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