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Casual Dining With a Coastal Twist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. | Contributing Writer

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

Cigar Social Thursdays at StripSteak by Michael Mina

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

Lavish late-nights at Villa Azur

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

Social Hour at Pizza & Burger by Michael Mina

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

By DiningOut Staff

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

Tasty Traditions at Old Lisbon

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

Osteria Del Teatro’s Tribute to Timeless Classics

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

Standards of Excellence at A Fish Called Avalon

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

By DiningOut Staff

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

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

Area 31

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

Juvia

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

Sugar

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

The 1 Rooftop

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

No. 3 Social

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

Vista

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

By Kathy Buccio | Contributing Writer

A list of local favorites that just couldn’t let go of the Miami Spice thrill (and we’re certainly not mad about it)

While Miami Spice may be over, we’ve found some spots that have either extended their Spice offerings or created a new menu entirely—leaving your taste buds satisfied and your wallets happy.

Seaspice

Lobster Bar Sea Grille Miami Spice Extended

If you’re a lobster fan, search no further than upscale seafood emporium Lobster Bar Sea Grille—just one of 13 eateries owned by Atlanta-based Buckhead Life Restaurant Group. The Lobster Bar Sea Grille sources fresh fish from around the world and through November, it’s extending its three-course dinner menu filled with everything of your lobster dreams.

For just $39, indulge in favorites like the Grilled Mediterranean Octopus, Whole Lobster Pasta Americaine, Nova Scotia Whole Lobster Stuffed Lobster, or the Twin Beef Tenderloin Medallions Au Poivre. For dessert, there’s the Signature Tropical Pavlova and Classic Profiteroles. Is your mouth watering yet?

Lunch Like a Boss at Seaspice

Long days working hard at the office call for a fine-dining lunch deal at Seaspice. Whether entertaining a client, enjoying a quick power lunch with co-workers, or taking a solo hour getaway, Seaspice’s world-class cuisine and nautical waterfront is reinventing your midday meal with a three-course Executive Lunch menu for just $29.

Tuesday through Friday from 12 to 3:30 p.m., lunch like a boss by indulging in dishes like the Salmon Crudo with white truffle ponzu or Maine Lobster Cappuccino. Entrée choices include Local Yellow Tail Snapper served with a citrus salsa verde, Wagyu Burger topped with smoked Gruyère and truffle aïoli, Shrimp Tagliolini, or, for a light and meatless option, the Vegan Plant Bowl with yellow lentil, curried butternut squash, shaved Brussels sprouts, and Turkish figs. With an Executive Lunch offering like this, you’ll head back to the office with a full belly and a clear mind.

Fi’lia South Beach: Curing Your Post-Spice Blues

Looking to cure your post-Miami Spice blues? Located in the heart of South Beach, Italian eatery Fi’lia South Beach is offering to help by way of a three-course, prix-fixe menu for both lunch and dinner. However, if a wider range of options is what appeals to you, Fi’lia’s all-day menu features delights like Charred Eggplant Spread and Linguine Cacio e Pepe, or dinner favorites like Calamari with lemon and marinara or the creamy Mushroom Risotto. All heavenly menus are available daily—and our hearts (and stomachs) are happy once again.

Taste of Matador

Olé, for a taste of Matador! Experience the culinary treasures of celebrity Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten by exploring his latest five-course prix-fixe menu while lounging in a luxurious, intimately-lit dining room.

Located at the Miami Beach Edition Hotel, The Matador Room offers the chef’s interpretation of Caribbean, Spanish, and Latin and South American cuisines while the ambiance is reminiscent of the glamorous supper clubs of the 1940s and 50s.

For $78 per person, indulge in fan favorites such as the Sweet Pea Guacamole with toasted sunflower seeds, Wild Gulf Shrimp with sizzling garlic and chile oil, or Black Truffle and Fontina Cheese Pizza. If you’ve come with a hard-to-satisfy appetite, the Arroz con Pollo with crackling skin and lemon zest will be sure to do the trick for you. And, to satisfy your sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the Warm Vanilla Fritters and Chocolate Pudding with Mexican chocolate. Can you say, “Olé!”

By Loren Gutentag, Contributing Writer

Steakhouse selections that shine

Bourbon Steak {19999 West Country Club Drive, Aventura; 786.279.6600}

When you have the word “steak” in your restaurant name, you’re setting the bar high for your beef. This is especially true when celebrated Chef Michael Mina is attached to the concept. Unsurprisingly, the fine-dining establishment inside JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa offers diners plenty to like—both in the steak department and beyond.

First things first: Bourbon Steak isn’t cheap. The steakhouse fare comes at a premium, with entrees as high as $95 (and even $195 for an 8-ounce Japanese A5 Striploin). Prepare to spend a pretty penny on your meal. But you should also prepare to leave the restaurant in awe.

From start to finish, Bourbon Steak doesn’t disappoint. Instead of bread service, guests are welcomed with a trio of Duck Fat Fries, each with tasty sauces and seasonings like Smoked Paprika, Spicy Ketchup, and Smoky BBQ Sauce. As tempting as it is to gorge on these fries, overdoing it will leave less room for notable starters like Steak Tartare and Spicy Beef Lettuce Cups.

Make sure to balance all that meat with some seafood. The chilled seafood section of the menu features favorites like Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, a Chef’s Oyster Selection, and Caviar Parfait. Larger groups can indulge in heftier items like a Cast-Iron Broiled Shellfish Platter or an Ice-Cold Shellfish Tower.

There’s so much on the menu that sounds great—so much so that you’re likely to skip over the salads section. Pro tip: don’t. While Simple Greens may not sound exciting, the salads are done really well; The ‘Wedge” is big enough for the table and dazzles with its blue cheese, bacon and a heavenly buttermilk ranch.

Obviously, you can’t visit Bourbon Steak without ordering steak—it’s a crime (we read that somewhere). A range of options are available, including an 8-ounce Filet Mignon, a 16-ounce Delmonico Rib Eye and a 32-ounce Porterhouse. Notably, the 8-ounce, Chef’s Favorite Cut ‘Rib Cap’ gets its own little box on the menu and rightfully so: It’s the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.

Bourbon Steak Bar

If steak isn’t your thing, a diverse Land & Sea section includes Day-Boat Scallops, Scottish Salmon, Veal Chop and more. Or you can enjoy one of Bourbon Steak’s Signature selections such as the Miso-Glazed Sea Bass or the $95 Maine Lobster Pot Pie (a deliciously decadent affair). Daily specials are also up for grabs, so listen to your server.

Should you have room for dessert, you can stick to something light such as a Chef’s Selection of Cheeses or go all out with Molten Chocolate Cake with malted milk ice cream or the Bourbon Steak Candy Bar with dulce de leche and Guanaja brownie.

In the end, you get what you pay for at Bourbon Steak. A phenomenal dining experience is waiting for you here: You may walk out with your wallet a little lighter, but you’ll be grinning ear-to-ear with a full belly. So treat yourself—you deserve it.  

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. | Staff Writer

Where elegance and creativity intersect

Biltmore Hotel Exterior

At the beautiful Biltmore Hotel, guests will find a range of dining options for palates and budgets of all types. But for a flagship dining experience, there’s no question: Palme d’Or is unrivaled. At its entrance, the fine French establishment highlights its many accolades—including the prestigious Five Diamond Award—and sets your expectations sky high for the meal to come (and exceeds them easily).

Palme d’Or gives off a distinct white tablecloth impression at first, but there’s no stuffiness to be found. The eatery’s à la carte approach ensures that all diners are welcome. If you feel like just having a few bites, you can. If you’re celebrating a special occasion and feel like splurging, you’re encouraged to go for it.

Hamachi

Offerings at Palme d’Or can be summed up simply as “elegance meets creativity.” You’ll find classic French fare with twists throughout. The menu is divided into three sections—Appetizers, Entrées and Additions—but despite the simple organization, figuring out what to order is hard; it all sounds superb.

Thankfully, the accommodating staff is more than happy to walk you through the menu—and you should certainly let them. Much of the staff has been with the Biltmore for years, and from firsthand experience they know the menu front-to-back. Seriously: Ask them a question, and they’ll rattle off an answer instantly.

Beef Tartare

Appetizer-wise, you can expect any dish to look like something straight out of a model shoot. Take the Hamachi, for example. With its bright apples, watermelon radish, cucumbers and hearts of palm, it is stunning. The same goes for the Beef Tartare with its capers, shallots and Gherkins. All the little elements on each plate make for magical presentations—and everything tastes magical, too. While the portions are large enough to share, you’re better off ordering one appetizer per person—you’ll likely want to keep each bite for yourself.

Entrée sections are split into The Sea and The Land, where you can expect similar heft and presentation. The Grilled Colorado Lamb Chop with coconut purple potato purée and piquillo peppers packs an ample amount of heat and an abundant amount of flavor. There’s more than enough on the plate for one person, but odds are there will be nothing left once you’re done. Palme d’Or’s branzino might be one of the simpler-sounding items on the menu but looks are deceiving; chili sauce, smoked bacon and pineapple help the dish walk the delicate balance of savory and sweet.

Cream Puff

Ending your meal with dessert is a must. Get the cream puff: It’s $14…a small price to pay for enjoying the to-die-for Madagascar vanilla caramel cream.

All in all, Palme d’Or is an exceptional experience. The food commands a premium (rightfully so), but an à la carte menu makes the price tag much more approachable. Rest assured, it’s money well spent—especially for a meal you’ll be talking about well after it’s over.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson

You’ve got two more weeks to dine like royalty. Make it count.

Los Fuegos Kitchen Prep

The annual restaurant extravaganza known as Miami Spice is quickly coming a close, so we’ve gathered our top picks for the best Spice menus in town. From celebrity chefs to neighborhood spots, there’s plenty to keep even the most discerning foodie happy.

Los Fuegos {3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 786.655.5600}

Lamb Ribs

Argentine super chef Francis Mallmann is the mastermind behind this gaucho-inspired restaurant at the posh Faena Miami Beach. As such, expect rustic Argentine and Patagonian specialities like Oxtail Croquettes or Octopus A La Plancha for appetizers. For mains, we loved the Lamb Ribs with peach chutney, while the Local Snapper comes with an intriguing grilled polenta and tomato mayonnaise. Dessert keeps things simple with a Mascarpone Cheesecake with red berry sorbet.

Octopus A La Plancha

Boulud Sud {255 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami; 305.421.8800}

Boulud Sud Dining Room

The plush downtown outpost of celeb chef Daniel Boulud’s homage to Mediterranean delights is a sophisticated spot to do a fancy Miami Spice lunch. The menu changes regularly, so there’s plenty of reason to keep coming back throughout the Spice promotion. We started with the Babaganoush appetizer and a “Horiatiki” Greek Salad, both of which were fresh and flavorful. For mains, we opted for the Branzino A La Plancha with freekah and apricot and the Lamb “Frita” with harissa aïoli, crispy potato, and onion compote. Desserts were showstoppers and included a Lavender-Peach Zalabia (a Tunisian donut filled with labneh mousse) and Chocolate Profitroles. And don’t forget to save room for those special warm madeleine cookies that are always served gratis!

Market at Edition {2901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 786.257.4600}

Crispy Salmon Sushi

Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Market at Edition’s global cafe/patisserie/salumeria is one of our favorite spots, simply because there’s so much tempting food on display—from the crisp pizzas to the insane charcuterie. For our Spice lunch, we started with the Crispy Salmon Sushi and Summer Squash and Arugula Salad—both refreshing and light starters. The Roasted Beef Tenderloin is a solid choice for an entrée, complimented by goldbar squash, Parmesan cheese and a buttery hot sauce, while the Mushroom and Farm Egg Pizza will please any carb lover. For dessert, choose between the Strawberry Sundae or the Passion Fruit Cheesecake (or splurge for a slice of the Carrot Cake—one of the best in town).

Scarpetta {4441 Collins Ave, Miami; 305.674.4660}

Branzino

The Italian restaurant at the Fontainebleau is always a winner for Spice, if not solely for the fact that they consistently offer their legendary Spaghetti Pomodoro as a Spice entrée and it is consistently, delectably, life-changing. That said, we were a tad disappointed that their Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms was not offered on this year’s Spice menu, but we understand the need to innovate—in its place, we loved the Mediterranean Octopus with capers and olives. For mains, there’s the classic Spaghetti, a beautifully crisped-skin Branzino, the Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli, or Chicken Breast with Pancetta. Desserts selections of Coconut Tapioca and Chocolate Amedei Bar with hazelnut crunch were lovely.

Chocolate Amedei Bar with Hazelnut Crunch

Maska {3252 NE 1st Ave Suite 109, Miami; 786.971.9100}

Crab Tadka Dumplings

Chef Hemant Mathur, the first Indian Chef in the U.S. to receive a Michelin Star, has opened a high-end homage to Indian cooking in midtown.  The dining room is an opulent space with crystal chandeliers, plush blue chairs, an open kitchen and a lounge and wine cellar. Be prepared to eat modern Indian dishes with creative spins like the Maska Chicken, the restaurant’s version of a butter chicken, Khoya Mushroom (paneer stuffed portobello mushroom), Crab Tadka Dumplings, and a variety of Kulcha (stuffed bread). Maska’s Miami Spice offering includes a complimentary cocktail—the Aam-Chi Martini—a gin-based cocktail topped with mango lassi foam. Next door to Maska, Mathur has also opened Cho:Tu, which focuses on Indian street food with a more casual atmosphere.

Khoya Mushroom

By Sara Liss, Contributing Writer

If a fully tantalizing experience is what you’re looking for, check out these all-inclusive specials from the crème de la crème:

The Seventh Annual South Beach Seafood Festival

Are you ready to put your toes in the sand, get a cocktail in your hand, and enjoy some of the best seafood in Miami? This fall, the South Beach Seafood Festival returns for its seventh consecutive year. Brought to you by William Hill and presented by Jack Daniel’s, City of Miami Beach, GOYA Foods, and Baptist Health South Florida, the South Beach Seafood Festival is taking over Miami from October 22-26 to showcase some of the area’s leading chefs and culinary masterminds. Touted as one of the fastest growing festivals in Miami Beach, the beachfront event—which features over 70 different restaurants and mouthwatering eats from Florida’s freshest seafood hotspots—spans five blocks and welcomes over 14,000 seafoodies for a day of fun in the sun in South Beach style. For $49, guests can enjoy seafood dishes paired with complimentary all-day open bar service. If you choose to splurge on the VIP experience ($150) you can enter to win the Land Rover South Dade VIP Hospitality Village and enjoy VIP access to Joe’s Stone Crab Miami, plus a ton of other awesome perks. The five-day event is the perfect combination of gourmet cuisine, wine pairings, live music at three different stages, chef competitions, and seemingly endless interactive experiences, all to benefit a great cause in Miami Dade County: CI Foundation’s EAT SMART program. The South Beach Seafood Festival has become the number three top recurring event on South Beach behind Art Basel and SOBEWFF. Kick off the fun with exclusive experiences at some of South Beach’s favorite spots, such as Meat Market, The Mondrian, or the Shore Club! Tickets can be purchased for all events at SOBASEAFOODFEST.COM

Miami Spice Specials at Market at EDITION

Looking to spice up your dining options? Look no further than Market at EDITION right in the midst of Miami Spice (August 1-September 30). The EDITION hotel’s signature restaurant is pulling out all the stops for the area’s largest and longest food event of the season. Open for lunch Monday-Friday, and dinner Monday-Sunday, Market at EDITION is including fan favorites on its specialty Miami Spice three-course prix-fixe menu, including the Crispy Salmon Sushi, Angel Hair Pasta with asparagus pesto, and Mushroom and Farm Egg Pizza, just to name a few! And why stop there? Also included are signature cocktails and decadent desserts. Brought to you by Michelin-starred chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Market at EDITION is proud to participate in Miami Spice—the perfect opportunity to enjoy Miami Beach’s finest fare at a reduced price but with the same extraordinary culinary experience. EDITIONHOTELS.COM/MIAMI-BEACH/RESTAURANTS-AND-BARS

Sunday Asado at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann

Nothing says “Sunday Funday” more than Sunday Asado at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann. Using live fire and traditional Patagonian cooking methods, watch as award-winning chefs prepare a buffet of slow-cooked meats, locally-caught fish, seasonal vegetables, and more—right in front of excited patrons. Priced at $95 per adult, from noon-4pm, pair your brunch with bottomless mimosas, sangría, or Bloody Mary pitchers. If that’s not tempting enough, Sunday Asado guests receive complimentary passes for Faena Beach to finish the morning in total relaxation. And yes, you can bring the whole family! Children are also welcome for $45 per child (ages 10 and younger). FAENA.COM/MIAMI-BEACH/RESTAURANT/LOS-FUEGOS-BY-FRANCIS-MALLMANN

Adventurous Omakase Dinners at Pao by Paul Qui

Every month at Pao by Paul Qui, James Beard award-winning Chef Paul Qui and his culinary team whip up a one-of-a-kind omakase feast centered around a specific theme or ingredient. Set around a communal table where diners can mingle and interact, these intimate epicurean adventures aim to expose guests to flavors they’ve never tried before. Dinners start at $95 per person, with the option to upgrade the experience with a sake or Japanese whiskey pairing. Since the series launched earlier this year, editions have highlighted themes ranging from Wagyu beef and mushrooms to Texas barbecue and beyond. Sign us up! FAENA.COM/MIAMI-BEACH/RESTAURANT/PAO-BY-PAUL-QUI

The Boho Chic Rooftop Scene at Vista 

Whether you’re looking for a pre-dinner bite or the perfect ending to your night, why not head to the rooftop at Vista Miami? The two-story modern-Italian restaurant located in the Upper Buena Vista area is a trendy concept combining Italian cuisine with Miami flavor and style. With prices ranging between $9-$29, enjoy delicious bites from the rooftop’s tapas menu—think coconut ceviche, oysters, or picoteo, then top it all off with an after-dinner drink special, like a Carajillo. With live music playing and the greenery surrounding, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a tropical, boho chic dream. VISTAMIAMIRESTAURANT.COM

By DiningOut Staff

Spasso - Cooking Class

Cooking Class at Spasso


Mexican Independence Day
When: Friday, September 16, 11am-Midnight
Where: Down N’ Dirty Tacos and Tequila Bar {1144 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.604.0323}
What: This Mexican taqueria invites guests to celebrate Mexican Independence Day with all-day specials and an exclusive happy hour event. On Friday, September 16, guests can indulge in a prix-fixe menu, along with beer and shot specials, from open to close. A fun–filled happy hour will run from 4-6pm, and will include Partida Tequila, a live DJ, sombreros, piñatas, and more.
Burgers, Babes & Booze
When: Sunday, September 18, 3pm-Sundown
Where: W Miami {485 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.4400}
What: This Sunday, celebrate National Cheeseburger Day at W Miami. Starting at 3pm, this event invites guests to head to the terrace of 15th & Vine, mingle with some of Miami’s favorite female chefs, and indulge in their most inventive cheeseburger creations. Participating chefs include: Nicole Votano of DIRT, Adrianne Calvo of Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar, Cindy Hutson of Zest, and Jessica Sanchez of Loba. The cost of the event is $35 per person, and includes four sliders of the guest’s choice, two sides from 15th & Vine, and one beer from a local Miami brewery. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite HERE. For more information, send an email to [email protected]
National Bourbon Month
When: Through September 30
Where: Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.538.2000}
What: September is National Bourbon Month, and the Fontainebleau Miami Beach has turned into a bourbon lover’s paradise. Throughout the month, guests will find bourbon-infused Bon Bon’s at Chez Bon Bon, specialty cocktails at Bleau Bar and Scarpetta, and special High West cocktails at StripSteak. Running with the trend, StripSteak will also offer bourbon flights at the bar, and its tableside Whiskey Ceremony will feature High West Whiskey for this month only. During StripSteak’s weekly Cigar Social, guests can order a High West Whiskey flight for $25++ per person. Finally, through Breakeven at StripSteak, patrons can sit at the bar and get a taste of exclusive, limited-edition bourbons at the restaurant’s break-even price.
Mani in Pasta (Hands in the Pasta)
When: Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10:30am-2:30pm
Where: Spasso {3540 Main Highway, Coconut Grove; 305.441.0219}
What: Have you always wanted to learn how to make fresh pasta? Are you curious to know how focaccia leavens? In this cooking class, guests will learn both. Led by Chef Gaetano, of Spasso, future cooks will get a hands-on lesson working with various cuts of egg pasta, from tagliatelle and pappardelle, to ravioli, tortelloni, and more. At the end of the course, participants will get a diploma, as well as a chance to savor a wine-pairing lunch featuring their own dishes. Each class lasts four hours and costs $49 per person.
Ladies Night Out with Free Prosecco
When: Every Thursday, 4-8pm
Where: Spasso {3540 Main Highway, Coconut Grove; 305.441.0219}
What: Every Thursday at Spasso, wind down with your girlfriends, as ladies enjoy free Prosecco from 4-8pm.
Happy Hour
When: Daily
Where: Spasso {3540 Main Highway, Coconut Grove; 305.441.0219}
What: Spend the Happiest Hour(s) of your day at Spasso! During the appropriate hours, enjoy a 5 for $5 happy hour menu, which includes your choice of one of five Neapolitan-style Pizzettas, wine by the glass, and select cocktails—like the fresh Sorrentino, which is made with rum, Limoncello, and lemon and orange juices—for $5 each.
By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor