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Bleau Bar

Looking for a new Friday night date idea? Well, look no further than our own backyard—at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.538.2000}. With 11 restaurants, eateries, and bars to choose from, just hop in the car, head to Miami’s most popular hotel, hand your keys to valet, and make a night of it… a whole night.

For a date that’s fun, fancy, and delicious, follow this guide for a Fontainebleau bar crawl like you’ve never had before:

Go early, and start with Day Drinking at Bleau Bar

We won’t judge you for actually day drinking, but this time, we’re referring to one of Bleau Bar’s best summer cocktails. As the saying goes, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere, so grab your sweetheart and head to the Fontainebleau right after work. The first place you’ll see when you walk in is Bleau Bar, so belly up and order two Day Drinking cocktails: it’s a mix of Pavan Liqueur de France, Whispering Angel rosé, lychee purée, and a mint and fruit garnish. Just remember to sip it slowly… after all, it is meant to be something you drink all day long.

Move on to Talladega Days at Hakkasan

Shake n’ Bake! This Talladega Days cocktail is just what you need for a hot summer night. Hakkasan is a world-renowned hotspot, and its talented team of bartenders spare no luxury in this mix of Corzo Tequila Silver, Cointreau, orange and pineapple juices, and guava purée. Throw in a hint of Filthy Black Cherry Syrup, garnish it with a fresh orchid, and drink up. Ricky Bobby!

Indulge in a Vita di Luxuary at Scarpetta

You’ve had a couple light drinks, and now it’s time to move on to the serious stuff: like this Vita di Luxuary cocktail. Part Sauternes Wine, Spring gin, Domain de Canton, lime juice, and hibiscus syrup, this drink will taste delicious when you pair it with Scott Conant’s famous spaghetti (which we also won’t judge you for ordering). The Hibiscus blossom and citrus foam garnish? Well, that just adds more pizzazz.

Finish the night with a Perfect Hemingway Daiquiri at StripSteak by Michael Mina

There’s nothing more “Florida” than this Perfect Hemingway Daiquiri: two kinds of Diplomatico Reserva rum, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, Luxardo Maraschino, and one Amarena cherry. To really treat your special someone, pair it with a sweet slice of key lime pie with caramelized honey, graham cracker crust, and lemongrass sherbet. It’s also very “Florida.”

Happy dining!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

Fontainebleau new years

New Year’s is quickly approaching. Have you made your plans yet?

Whether you’re looking for a happening celebration that continues into the wee hours of the morning or a low-key evening of great food, drinks, and close friends, Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283} has you covered.

The Weekend & KYGO Poolside Party: Tickets are still available for the hippest New Year’s celebration in town, when Fontainebleau welcomes music sensation The Weeknd and EDM superstar KYGO to its incredible pools for a night of drinking and dancing. Tickets start at $325 per person and all packages include premium open bar from 9pm until midnight. Click here for tickets and information.

StripSteak by Michael Mina: Fontainebleau’s newest restaurant by celebrity chef Michael Mina is offering a four-course prix-fixe menu. A vegetarian menu is also available.
First Seating (6-7:30pm): $195 per person
Second Seating (8:30-10pm): $295 per person

Hakkasan: Fontainebleau’s modern Chinese restaurant will be offering a four-course prix-fixe menu that begins with a family-style Dim Sum Platter. A vegetarian menu is also available.
First Seating (6-7:30pm): $195 per person
Second Seating (8-10pm): $295 per person

ScarpettaChef Scott Conant’s AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant will be offering a delectable four-course prix-fixe menu. A vegetarian menu is also available.
First Seating (6-7:30pm): $195 per person
Second Seating (8-10pm): $295 per person

Michael Mina 74The chic, yet laid-back contemporary American bistro will be serving a limited football menu from 11am-4pm and offering a three-course prix-fixe menu from 6-11pm for $150 per person.

All prices are exclusive of tax and gratuity.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Fireworks New Year’s Eve is quickly approaching. Don’t miss out on scoring a table at one of the hottest restaurants in town, many of which will keep the party going well into 2016. Here’s where to spend New Year’s Eve in Miami.

A Fish Called Avalon {Avalon Hotel, 700 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.532.1727}
Celebrate with mojitos, live music, an elegant prix-fixe menu, and a prime view of the Miami Beach fireworks. Seating begins at 7pm. Cost: $275 per person; $138 per child.

Bagatelle {220 21st Street, Miami Beach; 305.704.3900}
The intimate French bistro is offering two dinner packages, along with bottle service. First seating (starting at 7pm) includes Dom Pérignon welcome toast and a savory three-course menu; the second seating (starting at 10pm) offers a Veuve Clicquot welcome toast and an expanded four-course meal. Cost: First seating, $150 per person; second seating, $425 per person.

The Biltmore {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3246}
The Biltmore’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala begins at 8:30pm and includes an exquisite dinner, premium open bar, and Champagne toast at midnight. The stage will be shared by the band Flavor and DJ Chris from Sarz Entertainment. At midnight, fireworks will light up the sky and confetti will fill the ballroom. Click here for tickets and more information. The Biltmore’s French restaurant Palme d’Or will also be open for New Year’s Eve, offering a seven-course tasting menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Gregory Pugin. Cost: $225 per person.

Cleo South Beach {Redbury Hotel, 1776 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.CLEO}
For its first New Year’s celebration, Cleo is offering a prix-fixe menu and specialty cocktails from Chef Danny Elmaleh with seatings at 6pm and 9pm. At 9pm, guests will have access to the rooftop where Cleo will be giving away party favors, offering cocktail specials, and toasting at midnight with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Cost: First seating, $125; second seating, $150.

db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown;
305.421.8800}
Enjoy an early three-course pre-fixe menu (reservations from 5:30-7pm) or a luxurious five-course gala dinner (reservations from 8:30-10:30pm) featuring Executive Chef Jason Pringle’s seasonal favorites and toast to 2016 with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Cost: Early dinner, $85 per person; gala dinner, $195 per person. The Lounge at db Bistro will be open (no cover!) from 5pm-3am with bottle service and cocktail menu available and a limited à la carte menu from 5:30pm-midnight.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}
Of course, everyone is talking about the Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s incredible poolscape New Year’s party featuring musical guests The Weeknd and KYGO. [Cost: Tickets start at $325 per person; click here for info.] But for those who want a more intimate celebration, head to one of the Fontainebleau’s signature restaurants for an exquisite meal:

StripSteak by Michael Mina is offering two seatings featuring four-course prix-fixe menus. Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8:30-10pm), $295 per person. 

The hotel’s modern Chinese restaurant Hakkasan will be offering a four-course prix-fixe menu that begins with family-style Dim Sum Platter. Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8-10pm), $295 per person. 

Chef Scott Conant’s AAA Four Diamond award-winning Scarpetta will be offering a delectable four-course prix-fixe menus Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8:30-10pm), $295 per person.

The chic yet laid-back contemporary American bistro Michael Mina 74 will be serving a limited football menu from 11am-4pm and offering a three-course prix-fixe menu from 6-11pm. Cost: $150 per person.

JW Marriott Miami {1109 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.329.3500}
Celebrate the New Year at Isabela’s at the JW Marriott Miami from 7:30pm-1am and indulge in a sumptuous buffet accompanied by live entertainment by Christabel Bertrand and Maya-Mi Sound Band. Cost: $150 per person; $60 per child (ages 5-12).

Katsuya {SLS Hotel South Beach, 1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.455.2995}
Katsuya will offer two seatings featuring prix-fixe menus. Cost: First seating (starting at 5pm), $145 per person; second seating (starting at 8pm), $245 per person.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288}
Join Mandarin Oriental’s Peruvian restaurant La Mar by Gastón Acurio for a three-course menu. Click here for more information and full menu. Cost: $150 per person, includes Chicha Morada Champagne cocktail. Mandarin is also hosting a party at its sleek MO Bar + Lounge from 9pm-1am. Cost: $75 per person, includes two glasses of Champagne; $250 per couple, includes VIP table seating with a lavish seafood platter of fresh king crab, Maine lobster, stone crabs, and more, plus a bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne.

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200}
Ring in the New Year along the Miami River at Seaspice, which is offering three separate packages from which to choose. Option 1: A four-course menu in the main dining room ($500 per person) that includes a bottle of Verve Clicquot per couple. Option 2: A four-course menu at Modern Garden on the patio ($750 per person) that includes a bottle of Dom Pérignon per couple. Option 3: A four-course menu on the outdoor mezzanine (1,000 per person) that includes a bottle of Dom Pérignon per couple.

Segafredo Espresso L’Originale {1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.673.0047}
Segafredo on Lincoln Road will be hosting its signature European New Year’s Eve from 5-8pm (midnight in Europe) with complimentary prosecco toasts while showing fireworks from Europe on its big screens. The restaurant will also have live DJs playing throughout the afternoon and evening.

Uvaggio Wine Bar {70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.448.2400}
Starting at 7pm, Uvaggio invites gourmands and wine lovers to a five-course meal prepared by Chef Tanner Gil paired with wines from Foxen Winery poured by founder Dick Doré and his wife Jenny. Cost: $150 per person; click here to purchase.

Villa Azur {309 23rd Street, Miami Beach; 305.763.8688}
While dressed in your finest Old Hollywood glamour, enjoy a four-course menu and a bottle of Champagne for two, (Dom Pérignon Rosé, Dom Pérignon, or Krug). An after-dinner party and live show will keep you dancing until dawn. Cost: Packages start at $500 per person.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

In exactly one week, who among us will be frantically slicing, dicing, basting, and frosting? Who will be making last-minute trips to the to the grocery store (for the third time!)? Who will be so caught up in preparing a feast of such epic proportions that there isn’t time to take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Thanksgiving: giving thanks?

While home-cooked meals can certainly be fabulous, perhaps this is the year, you let someone else do the work—so you can focus on the stuff that really matters, like spending time with the people that you love. The following Miami restaurants are inviting you in to enjoy their own Thanksgiving feasts. We promise, if you go the dining out route, you (and your family) won’t be sorry.

Brickell/Downtown

Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288} invites guests to spend Thanksgiving at either one of its signature restaurants. From now through Thanksgiving, La Mar by Gastón Acurio will be offering a trio of à la carte Peruvian menu items inspired by the flavors of Thanksgiving, including Rocoto Relleno (shrimp stew with aji panca, pecans, cranberries, and sweet potato gratin); Jumbo Wings (turkey wings finished on the anticucho grill); and Cebiche de Pato (duck with orange, red onions, aji amarillo, and turmeric). And for dessert, don’t miss out on the to-die-for Peruvian Chocolate Cheesecake with caramelized pecans served with baked apple ice cream.

Azul

Azul at Mandarin Oriental, Miami

Over at Mandarin’s other restaurant, Azul, from 5-10pm, Chef Benjamin Murray is preparing a savory family-style four-course Thanksgiving feast with highlights that include Caramelized Butternut Squash Soup, Brioche-Sausage Stuffing, Poached Cranberries, Sweet Potato Purée, Broccoli Casserole, and, of course, Turkey! Price is $95 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity.

Meanwhile, on Brickell Avenue, Morton’s The Steakhouse {1200 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.440.9990} invites families to start a new Thanksgiving tradition. For more than 30 years, the steakhouse has served the finest USDA Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, and hand-picked produce—and Thanksgiving is no exception. All three Miami locations will be offering their regular menus from 1-9pm.

db Bistro Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich - PHOTO

To-Go Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich form db Bistro Moderne

Heading downtown, db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.421.8800} is offering a Thanksgiving menu with options. Daniel Boulud’s acclaimed eatery presents a three-course Thanksgiving dinner prepared by Chef Jason Pringle featuring your choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert. But that’s not all. You won’t miss having Thanksgiving leftovers, as db Bistro will be sending each guest home with a complimentary Turkey Sandwich to-go (pictured above), to enjoy the following day. Dinner will be served from 1-9pm; price is $65 per person. A special kids’ menu will also be available for $35 per child. In addition, the lounge will be open at noon and will have a limited à la carte Thanksgiving menu.

Miami Beach

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}, Miami Beach’s go-to dining destination for authentic Northern Italian cuisine, will offer a special à la carte Thanksgiving menu alongside its regular lunch and dinner menus. Special entrées include Tacchino Ripieno alla Piemontese, braised turkey breast stuffed with focaccia, Italian sausage, and pistachio served with sage mashed potatoes and homemade gravy; Risotto con Zucca, traditional risotto with pumpkin, walnuts, and Gorgonzola cheese; and Fiorentine d’Agnello, t-bone of lamb with mint demi-glace, Brussels sprouts, and truffle potato fries.

Quality Meats Miami Beach {1501 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.340.3333}, Miami Beach’s hottest new steakhouse, will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 4-10pm. The restaurant will have its regular menu in addition to a special limited-time Thanksgiving dish: Herb-Roasted Heritage Turkey with cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, and spiced sweet potato fries accompanied by local honey butter, giblet gravy, and Quality cranberry sauce.

Bazi

Bazi

Bazi {1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 05.695.0101}, a brand-new concept from the owners of the acclaimed Alton Road Italian eatery, Macchialina, will feature an innovative prix-fixe Thanksgiving feast with an Asian-inspired twist. The meal kicks off with a bowl of Turkey Wonton Soup, followed by Gyoza, a popular dish consisting of shrimp and chive dumplings and sweet potato dumplings. It continues with Peking Turkey, served with wasabi mashed potatoes and scallion pancakes. Dinner will be offered from 5-10pm for $55 per person.

If you’re not the type that wants to wait ’til dinner to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, you’re in luck. The Restaurant at The Setai {2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.520.6400} is presenting an elaborate and untraditional brunch (three seatings will be available: 11:30am, 1pm, and 2:30pm). Expect both Thanksgiving classics along with non-classics such as Indonesian Beef Rendang, Indian Lamb Vindaloo, Upma (Indian polenta), a selection of Indian tandoori breads, and much, much more. From 7-10pm, the Setai will resume food service with a delicious three-course menu offering choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert for $95 per person ($48 per child).

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts from Cleo

SBE’s celebrated Mediterranean restaurant, Cleo {1776 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.2536}, will host its annual “Cleopatra’s Thanksgiving Feast,” an exquisite Thanksgiving menu with a Mediterranean theme. For just $39 per person, diners will enjoy items such as Roasted Pumpkin Dip, Pistachio and Roasted Chestnut Stuffing, Blistered Brussels Sprouts, and a Pomegranate Glazed Turkey all served up by award-winning Chef Danny Elmaleh.

SBE’s other popular SoBe restaurant, The Bazaar by José Andrés {1701 Collins Avenue; Miami Beach; 305.455.2999}, will be offering its regular dinner menu along with an incredible à la carte Thanksgiving menu designed to be enjoyed family-style. Dinner will begin at 6pm and will feature items such as Squash Soup with vanilla, curry, and Taylor Bay scallops; Amish-Farmed Turkey, with a truffled breast, confit leg, and topped with traditional gravy; Green Bean Casserole with matsutake mushrooms and crispy shallots; Sweet Potatoes with marshmallow fluff and caramelized pecans; and more.

There will be a plethora of Turkey Day dining options available Thanksgiving Day at Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}. At Scarpetta, the hotel’s acclaimed Italian eatery, guests can indulge in a three-course prix-fixe dinner for $75 per person featuring Butternut Squash Soup Fregato with toasted focaccia and roasted mushrooms; Roast Turkey Porchetta with cranberry mostarda and Brussels sprouts; and Pumpkin Tiramisù, crafted with spiced pumpkin mascarpone and served beside Marsala-soaked lady fingers, mocha espuma, and cinnamon gelato.

Fontainebleau, Chez Bon Bon Coffee, StripSteak Restaurant

StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

The hotel’s signature steakhouse, StripSteak by Michael Mina will also offer a prix-fixe dinner menu from 6-11pm for $75 per person. The highlight of the dinner will be Roasted Turkey Breast with turkey leg confit and chorizo cornbread stuffing. The meal will start off with Roasted Baby Beets with dried cranberries, hazelnuts, and goat cheese, topped with walnut vinaigrette and conclude with Pumpkin Pie topped with cinnamon whipped cream and spiced caramel sauce.

Michael Mina 74 will have its regular lunch menu at the bar with football games airing from 11:30am-6pm and Thanksgiving specials offered à la carte from 6-11pm, including a hearty Turkey Breast Roulade with confit leg sage stuffing, Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy, and mouthwatering Pumpkin Cheesecake topped with spiced Jamaican anglaise and orange compote.

And Beyond

hyde beach kitchen + Cocktails

Pumpkin Butter Rolls from Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails

Let us not forget our friends further north. SBE’s newest hot spot, Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale; 954.699.0901} will be serving a prix-fixe menu for $50 per person, with menu items that include a Seafood Tower; Pumpkin Butter Rolls; a Roasted Turkey Breast with apricot and pistachio stuffing; and Pecan Pumpkin Pie.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

pink building 2

For the seventh year in a row, the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach} is partnering with Susan G. Komen of Miami/Fort Lauderdale for the Bleau Goes Pink campaign, a month-long event in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

On October 1, Fontainebleau President and COO Philip Goldfarb initiated the pink illumination of the hotel’s Chateau Tower, which will remain pink from dusk until 10pm nightly throughout October. The hotel is also featuring special spa treatments at Lapis Spa, specialty merchandise from its retail locations, and—our favorite part—delicious prix-fixe menus at its signature restaurants.

Here’s how you can help:

Dine for the Cure
Enjoy specialty prix-fixe menus for $55 a person at Hakkasan, Scarpetta, Michael Mina 74, and StripSteak by Michael Mina; $5 from every cover will be donated to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale. Click here to view the complete prix-fixe menus. Chez Bon Bon is also offering pink desserts and treats, including strawberry éclairs, raspberry macaroon tarts, pink cotton candy, strawberry gelato, and pink velvet cupcakes.

Chez Bon Bon 3

Spa for the Cure
Reserve a Bleau Ocean Luxury treatment and Lapis Spa will donate $10 for every treatment to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale.

Shop for the Cure
Purchase a limited-edition pink Lokai bracelet for $18 at Morris & Co.; $1 from each bracelet sold will be donated to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale. Or, stop the Lapis spa retail shop to purchase a breast cancer awareness braider bracelet by Lisa Schwartz Jewelry for $30, $10 of which will be donated to the charity.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

MM74 Tap Takeover

There’s always something brewing at Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.512.8002} and this month is no exception.

M.I.A. Brewing, the Doral-based brewery, taproom, and beer garden is currently partnering with the hotel’s signature restaurant, Michael Mina 74, for a one-of-a-kind “tap takeover.” From now through October, all eight of the MM74’s taps will be pouring an array of  the brewery’s handcrafted beers, ales, and stouts.

In celebration of this partnership, tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30, at 8:30pm, M.I.A.’s brew master Michael Demetrus will join Chef Thomas Griese for a special five-course beer-pairing dinner.

Here’s what you can expect:

First Course: Duo of Diver Sea Scallop “Chaud-Froid”
Scallop espuma, hibiscus gel, sweet corn royalé, and herbed sabayon
Paired with: Regresa a Mi
Berliner Weisse fermented with guava and hibiscus

Second Course: Maine Lobster Pasta
Hand-cut pappardelle, garden squash ribbons, and lemon verbena
Paired with: Fontainebru
Saison (dry farmhouse ale) fermented with lemon verbena

Third Course: Jerked Caribbean Quail and Foie Gras
Cannellini bean purée, macadamia nuts, and saffron-infused mango
Paired with: Rye Tortugas
Galaxy red rye malt-forward ale

Fourth Course: Coffee-Rubbed Prime Skirt Steak Churrasco
Passionfruit brown butter, coffee textures, and tarragon
Paired with: Czar Face
Russian Imperial stout

Fifth Course: Double Chocolate Raspberry Torte
Aerated Tahitian vanilla-bean ice cream, raspberry cells, and cocoa nibs
Paired with: Moo-Over Miami
Roast dark chocolate full-bodied stout with cocoa nibs and vanilla bean

The prix-fixe menu is priced at $85 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and tickets can be purchase online here.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

hakkasan

When it comes to Chinese food in Miami, it really doesn’t get much better than Hakkasan {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}, the AAA Four Diamond restaurant that’s often cited as one of the top 50 restaurants in the entire world.

Just one of several signature restaurants at the trendy Fontainebleau hotel, Hakkasan stays relevant and popular with its cool, low-lit vibe and its mix of authentic Cantonese cuisine and traditional dim sum, offered every evening and for lunch during the weekends. And, starting next week, Hakkasan will present a special menu in honor of Golden Week, a seven-day holiday in China during the first week of October where all Chinese workers are given paid time off; consequently, it’s a popular time for the Chinese to travel around the world, visit family, and experience luxury offerings.

Although it’s only a seven-day holiday in China, Hakkasan will be celebrating Golden Week for almost a month—September 21 through October 18—when the restaurant will offer a traditional upscale Chinese feast priced at $138 per person.

Hakkasan dumpling

The meal starts off with Crispy Eggplant with dried fish floss and the Supreme Dim Sum Platter, which includes a lychee and lobster dumpling, abalone shumai with caviar, Alaskan King crab dumpling, and the Dover sole dumpling with black truffle.

Hakkasan dumpling 2

For the main course, specialty items include the Steamed Red Snapper in royal supreme sauce with golden enoki; Braised Boston Lobster in superior stock; Wok-Fried Rib-Eye Beef with lotus root and black pepper; Stir-Fry Asparagus with morel, ginkgo nut, and lotus seed; and Fried Rice with Diced Abalone.

Golden Week_Gold Macarons

The feast includes a specialty Colden Iced Tea cocktail; and for an indulgent dessert, each guest receives a bag of golden macarons. Perhaps all that glitters is gold.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

One of the things we love most about Miami Spice is that it doesn’t just last for one month, it lasts for two whole months. This means that there’s still plenty of time to visit all your favorite restaurants—and some brand-new ones—and enjoy unmatched three-course Miami Spice menus at discounted prices (dinner: $39; lunch: $23).

As we try to hit up as many Spice menus as we can, here are five more of our favorites we don’t want you to miss:

1. BLT Steak & The Betsy {1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.673.0044}
Spice menu available for lunch Monday-Friday and dinner Sunday-Friday.

Veal & Pork Meatballs from BLT Steak

Veal & Pork Meatballs from BLT Steak

We love that Celebrity Chef Laurent Tourondel likes to keep things interesting—his blackboard menu changes daily—and that means he’s entirely revamped his Spice menu for the month of September. For appetizers, our hands-down first choice is the Veal and Pork Meatballs. Chef Tourondel served these babies up for us during a special preview dinner last March, and we’ve been dreaming about them ever since! For entrées, it’s a toss-up between the 12oz CAB Coulotte and the Grilled Black Tiger Prawns. To round out the meal, you’ll also be able to choose your own side and melt-in-your-mouth dessert. But that’s not all! Even though it’s Miami Spice, you’ll still receive the complimentary goodies that are brought to every table at dinner: Chicken Liver Mousse with artisan bread and pickled vegetables, and the famous giant Popovers dusted with Gruyère cheese.

2. Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily.

Branzino a la Vasca from Bulla Gastrobar

Branzino a la Vasca from Bulla Gastrobar

There’s nothing more disappointing than arriving at your planned restaurant of the evening, sitting down at your table, and then having your server tell you: “We’re not offering our Miami Spice menu right now.” With many establishments placing restrictions on when their specials are actually available, it’s comforting to know that at Bulla, it’s always time for Spice. Just last week, the Spanish restaurant rolled out updated Spice menus, featuring items such as the Albóndigas de Cordero (lamb meatballs), Branzino a la Vasca, and the Torrija dessert. As an added bonus, for both lunch and dinner, you can enjoy TWO glasses of any of Bulla’s popular sangrías for just $10.

3. Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room {1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6529}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily.

Pan-Roasted Monkfish from Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room

Pan-Roasted Monkfish from Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room

For Miami Spice, the Conrad Miami’s signature restaurant is serving up some of its classic dishes and seasonal favorites. For appetizers, we recommend the crisp Waldorf Salad, followed by the Pan-Roasted Monkfish, which is served with confit garlic, Mediterranean baby vegetables, and red wine reduction. And for dessert, don’t miss out on the gooey Chocolate Coulant Cake served with salted caramel ice cream. Plus, if you’re looking for a quick power lunch, Atrio’s got you covered. Simply ask for the special “Taste of Time” menu, which guarantees (if you so choose) that you’ll be in and out in 45 minutes or less. An hourglass will be placed on your table at the start of the meal; and if your meal isn’t completed in time, your lunch is on the house.

4. Scarpetta {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
Spice menu available for dinner Sunday-Thursday.

Creamy Polenta from Scarpetta

Creamy Polenta from Scarpetta

Celebrity Chef Scott Conant’s menu at Scarpetta at the Fontainebleau is drool-worthy any time of year. But during Miami Spice, it becomes even more enticing. The restaurant recently revamped its Spice menu, giving you even more options to savor. For appetizers, we recommend the Creamy Polenta, which is served alongside a medley of truffled mushrooms (which happen to be a specialty of the restaurant this time of year). Continue the experience with the Short Rib Agnolotti Dal Pin before ending with the traditional dolce: Almond Panna Cotta. If you’re not in the mood for Italian, Fontainebleau’s three other flagship restaurants—Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74, and StripSteak—have also updated their Spice menus for the month of September.

5. The Bazaar by José Andrés {1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.455.2999}
Spice menu available for dinner Sunday-Thursday.

Bao con Lechón from The Bazaar by José Andrés

Bao con Lechón from The Bazaar by José Andrés

Decisions, decisions! Hands down, one of the most extensive option-filled Spice menus out there is from the SLS South Beach’s Bazaar by José Andrés. First, you’ll choose your appetizer, or “snack,” from five different options (we recommend the Bao con Lechón—pork belly on a Chinese bun). Next, you’ll select THREE options from an expansive menu that includes several “Verduras,” seven types of “Carnes y Mariscos,” and three “Fruits and Vegetables” dishes. And don’t forget: You’ll also get to choose a dessert, so be sure to save room!

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

By Erin Lavan | Associate Publisher

Sometimes, it’s best to leave the stress and fuss of holiday hosting and cooking to the professionals. Everyone needs a year off from time to time! Let one of Miami’s fine restaurants host you and yours for Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve dinners and parties, or New Year’s Day affairs.

Christmas Events

Traditional Mexican at Porfirio’s
Porfirio’s Restaurant is serving a prix-fixe traditional Mexican menu on Christmas Eve with a choice of one appetizer, a first course, a main course, and dessert for $65.

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Dinner at db Bistro Moderne
From 6-10pm on Christmas Eve, db Bistro Executive Chef Jason Pringle will serve an á la carte menu of seasonal specials like Roasted Prime Rib and Nantucket Bay Scallops. What’s for dessert? A Classic Bûche de Noël.

Dinner at Trapiche Room
On Christmas Eve, join Trapiche from 6-10:30pm for an exquisite holiday dinner for $120 per person.

Classic Spanish Holiday Treats at Bellmónt
Bellmónt is sharing the Spanish holiday love this year on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Think traditional treats and a glass of Spanish cider, as is tradition in Spanish households. $150 per person, and $60 per child.

You can also enjoy Bellmónt’s signature “Cochinilla a la Leña” either at the restaurant or ordered for your own home with 12 hours notice. This whole suckling pig is roasted in a Spain-imported wood-fired oven.

Prix-Fixe Five Ways at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach
At any one of the Fontainebleau’s five concepts– Scarpetta, Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74, StripSteak by Michael Mina, and Vida–enjoy a special prix-fixe menu to celebrate the Christmas holiday. Visit the website for more info.

Christmas Fare at The Setai
On Christmas Eve, The Setai will offer two Christmas Eve menus (one vegetarian menu) for $110 per person with offerings such as Champs-Elysées Soup Bay Scallops with roasted morel-herb butter; Fish Fumet with Noilly Prat; Dover Sole Poached with garden nage and lemon thyme; Polenta Crispy Poached Egg with a fricassee of mushrooms and Burgundy truffle,  and La Buche De Noel Chestnut and Black Currant and Hazelnut Rum with chestnut ice cream.

On Christmas Day, The Setai will serve a holiday buffet to the tune of a modern jazz trip from 11:30am-3:30pm for $95 per person. Dig into dishes like ham, leg of lamb, Alaskan king crab legs, and desserts aplenty.

Throw a Pig Roast
If you’re hosting a Christmas dinner and haven’t yet figured out your main course, we have excellent news for you. Through December 24, you can order a whole-roasted six-pound suckling pig from Pubbelly Chef Jose Mendin. This Puerto Rican tradition is sure to floor all your guests. It serves five to seven people and comes with mofongo, tostones, arooz mamposteao, and a six-pack of Medalla with Pubbelly sauces. Place your order soon as a 48-hour pre-order is required. The pig is priced at $250 plus tax and service. Email [email protected] to order.

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Holiday Tasting Menu at Siena Tavern 
Join Siena Tavern for Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day four-course dinners from 6-11pm for $85 per person, and $35 for wine pairings. The courses will include an antipasti of Octopus Carpaccio, a choice of  Pasti, an entrée of Branzino or Herb-Crusted Bone-In Prime Rib, and Spiced Brioche Bread Pudding for dessert.

Holiday Menu at Seasalt and Pepper
On Christmas Day, Seasalt and Pepper will serve a holiday menu from noon-11pm.

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Lobster at Semilla
For $59 from December 24-30, enjoy a lobster menu at Semilla Eatery and Bar. The dinner will include a lobster appetizer (like the Lobster Causa Croquettes with tartar sauce), an entrée (like the Lobster and Truffle Risotto), and a dessert.

New Year’s Eve Events

Toast to 2015 at The Bazaar by José Andrés
The Bazaar menu blends Andrés’ Spanish heritage and personal ingenuity with influences from the local Latin culinary tradition. The $175 per person menu will feature dishes like Cotton Candy Foie Gras and Tuna Ceviche. The first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. Make your reservation online.

Sushi and Robata at Katsuya
Enjoy Katsuya Chef Uechi’s signature sushi and robata with new touches inspired by Miami’s local Latin flavor this New Year’s Eve. The first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. The $145 per person menu will be served family-style and feature courses like Wagyu Carpaccio, Yakimon Whole Fish, and the Chef’s sushi selection. Make your reservation online.

NYE 2015 Vintro Hotel

A Five-Course Dinner at Vintro Kitchen
At 9pm, enjoy a five-course dinner at Vintro Kitchen with bottomless red, white, and rosé wines and Prosecco for $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Afterwards, enjoy a party in the Scorpion Bar.

Party at Casa Juancho
Casa Juancho‘s doors open at 8pm. A special prix-fixe menu will be available. Make reservations by calling 303.642.2452.

Wine Pairing Dinner at Tamarina
This special evening at Tamarina will be divided into two seatings. The first seating at 7pm will feature the fixed menu for $95 or $130 with expertly paired wines of Vermentino, Macon-Villages, Tempranillo, Riesling, and Limoncello.

The second seating at 9pm will also feature the fixed menu for $95 or $150 with the paired wines and a New Year’s Eve after party with an open bar package that includes Russian Standard vodka, Beefeater gin, 10 Cane rum, 4 Rouses bourbon, Olmeca tequila, Gavi di Gavi white wine, Corvina red wine, Sommariva Prosecco, domestic and imported beers, soft drinks, coffee, and tea.

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Something Different at Uvaggio
For $250 per person, Uvaggio Wine Bar brings you the best Champagnes from France and the US, oysters, caviar, crab, and so much more. Call to reserve your spot: 305.448.2400.

NYE 2014 Menu A fish called avalon

Five Courses at A Fish Called Avalon
For $250 per person, enjoy five courses and Laurent Perrier Champagne split bottle at A Fish Called Avalon. Mediterranean Meze, Lobster Thermidor, and Latin-Caribbean music, oh my!

A Special Menu at Tuyo
Tuyo‘s first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. Call 305.237.3200 for more information.

Two Dinners or the Lounge at db Bistro Moderne
For the earlybirds, db Bistro will serve dinner at 5:30pm for $75 per person. Courses include dishes like Oyster Velouté, Black Truffle Risotto, Maple-Glazed Duck, and Coconut and White Chocolate Cake. There will be a five-course Gala Dinner at 9pm with complimentary Champagne for $195 per person wherein you can dine on Tuna Carpaccio, Black Truffle Ravioli, and more.

Or, head to the cover-free lounge anytime between 5pm-3am for a $50 prix-fixe raw bar and charcuterie meal (until 10pm), or an á la carte menu, bottle service, and a live DJ.

An All-Out Buffet at Trapiche Room
At the JW Marriot’s fine-dining restaurant, between 7:30pm-1am, enjoy a buffet and live entertainment.

Classic Spanish Holiday Treats at Bellmónt
Bellmónt is sharing the Spanish holiday love this year on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Think traditional treats and a glass of Spanish cider, as is tradition in Spanish households. $150 per person, and $60 per child.

Five Dinners at the Fontaniebleau
The iconic Fontainebleau is home to Scarpetta, Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74 and StripSteak by Michael Mina, and this New Year’s Eve, they will each prepare especially lavish and delicious four and five-course menus to help ring in the New Year. Visit the website for more information.

Ring in 2015 at The Setai
The New Year will mark The Setai, Miami Beach’s 10 Year Anniversary. They’re commemorating this milestone with a New Year’s Eve celebration dinner for $625 per adult. The menu will feature dishes like Lobster-Poached Maine Lobster with lemon potato mousse, truffle vinaigrette, and fresh Burgundy truffles; and Wagyu Beef Filet Mignon Rossini roasted with red wine-braised onions and foie gras.

On January 1, return for a New Year’s-themed buffet, SBS Flamenco, and a Mediterranean jazz trio from 11:30am-3:30pm for $110 per person. The buffet will include items from the rotisserie, an extensive array of seafood, Mediterranean specialties, and a dessert buffet. Passed hangover drinks with raw egg yolk, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper will be offered as well.

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Prix-Fixe at Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern‘s first seating will be from 6-7:30pm for $195 per person for a four-course menu. The second seating will be from 9-10:30 pm for $295 per person for a five-course menu. A cocktail package for bar seating is also available.

On New Year’s Day, Siena Tavern will host a brunch from 11am-4pm.