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Every new year brings new surprises, and we’ve rounded up ten that foodies will love. From an intimate soon-to-launch omakase counter in Wynwood to a tiny Greek taverna in Coconut Grove, these new Miami restaurants prove the city’s dining scene is on the up and up. 

Osaka Nikkei

Osaka Food Omakase Platter
Osaka Food Omakase Platter

With successful restaurants across South America, Osaka Nikkei made its U.S. debut on the first floor of Brickell House last month. Helmed by owners Diego de la Puente and Diego Herrera, the concept began in Peru as a weekly pop-up and has since spread to cities including Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Quito, and Bogota. The menu at the new Brickell restaurant will include location-exclusive dishes, plus some of Osaka’s signature creations — not to mention a world-class mixology program. 

Osaka Nikkei Miami is located at 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami
osakanikkei.com/es/ 


Thatch Miami

Thatch Miami

This newcomer to the Midtown Miami scene specializes in 100% plant-based dishes made with organic ingredients. You’ll find all kinds of good-for-you (and delicious) dishes here, like shareable Foccacia, Hummus with Za’atar, and Thatch Mac and Cheese, plus entrees that range from artisan pizzas and salads to heartier fare — the Coconut Thom Kha “ramen” is a fave. If you’re into wine, Thatch offers a great list of natural whites, reds, roses and skin contact vintages. 

Thatch Miami is located at 3255 NE 1st Avenue, Miami
www.thatchmiami.com 


Nativo Kitchen & Bar

Nativo Kitchen & Bar

This new dining room on the 25th floor of Conrad Miami also debuted in December and has been making waves ever since. Executive Chef Pablo Lamon (you might recognize him from Bravo’s Top Chef season 16) spotlights Miami-inspired cuisine here, elevating breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a Latin American twist. Happy hour takes place daily at the restaurant’s gorgeous new lounge, inviting guests to pair delicious drinks with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. 

Nativo Kitchen & Bar is located at 1395 Brickell Avenue, Miami
https://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/conrad-miami-MIACICI/amenities/restaurants.html 


INTI.MO by Juan Chipoco

Achupao de Langosta
Achupao de Langosta

Celebrated Peruvian chef (and owner of CVI.CHE 105 and Pollos y Jarras) Juan Chipoco recently debuted his latest concept, INTI.MO, in South Beach. Feeding the city’s love for Peruvian Nikkei cuisine, the new restaurant focuses on fresh, flavorful fare that leaves guests “feeling light but satisfied.” The dining experience always starts with a complimentary cup of fish broth to cleanse the palate, and special consideration is given to preparing the perfect wine and cocktail pairings to go with each dish.  

INTI.MO is located at 840 1st Street, Miami Beach
https://www.inti-mo.com/


Little Hen

Offering guests a taste of England right here in Midtown, the recently opened Little Hen blends European-inspired design with updated classic breakfast and lunch dishes by Executive Chef Rafael Velazquez. There’s a stellar cocktail program, too, for those who like their brunch boozy — plus artisanal coffee, fresh-pressed juice, and a great selection of wines.

Little Hen is located at 3451 NE 1st Avenue, Miami


MILA

Gregory and Marine Galy will open MILA on Lincoln Road on January 24. Encompassing 5,000 square feet of breathtaking rooftop space, the new spot will serve “MediterrAsian” cuisine by Executive Chef Nicolas Mazier. MILA will also feature an extensive spirits program by acclaimed mixologist Jennifer Le Nechet and Mido Yahi, served across two bars.

MILA will be located at 800 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach 


Meraki

Fans of this downtown Miami gem will be thrilled to know managing partner Alex Karavias and Executive Chef Giannis Kotsos have brought their standout Greek concept to the heart of Coconut Grove. Done up in a clean, summery palette of bright white and cool Aegean blue, the new location also offers outdoor terrace seating that’s perfect for enjoying a chilled glass of Assyrtiko

Meraki Coconut Grove is located at 142 SE 1st Avenue, Miami


Bulla Gastrobar 

Sangria of Bulla Gastrobar

Miami mainstay Bulla Gastrobar will bring its beloved Spanish tapas and dishes to The Falls in late February or early March of 2020. The new restaurant will be the brand’s third location in South Florida after successful openings in Coral Gables and Doral. 

The new Bulla Gastrobar will be located at 8888 SW 136th St, Miami


Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants

On January 27, the award-winning Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant will open a new location at Dania Pointe in Dania Beach, marking its 11th outpost in Florida and its 4th in Broward County. Guests can look forward to a menu of modern-American fare with globally-inspired flavors, plus options for the perfect wine pairing.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is located at 1822 Pointe Blvd, Dania Beach


Hiyakawa

The interior design of Hiyakawa
The interior design of Hiyakawa

Say “Konnichiwa” to Miami’s newest go-to for authentic Japanese food — Hiyakawa, opening in Wynwood this month. The brainchild of Wabi Sabi’s Chef Shuji Hiyakawa and restaurateur/art dealer Alvaro Perez Miranda (who launched the Vagabond Restaurant & Bar), this new Wynwood hideaway will serve guests in an intimate 28-seat setting. Foodies can also get excited about a $100-per-person omakase menu — one of the best omakase deals in the city. 

Hiyakawa will be located at 2700 North Miami Avenue, Miami


Pink Taco

Succulent Lobster Enchiladas

All the way from Los Angeles, Mexican eatery Pink Taco has landed in South Beach. Blending made-from-scratch Mexican fare with a fun, lively atmosphere, this highly anticipated taco shop will open the doors to the public January 14 on Ocean Drive. Menu items we’re extra excited about including the namesake Pink Taco, stuffed with achiote chicken, avocado, arbol salsa, and more, Succulent Lobster Enchiladas, and a slew of creative Margaritas that range from prickly pear to avocado chile.  

Pink Taco will be located at 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach

By Amanda Mesa, a contributing writer

Steak & Eggs at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar

Steak & Eggs at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar

Here is all of the food news you can get excited about in Miami this week:

Last Week of Miami Spice!
You only have until the end of September to take advantage of Miami’s most raved-about foodie season, Miami Spice. From now through September 30, checkout your favorite restaurants—like StripSteak by Michael Mina, db Bistro Moderne, Tamarina and 200+ more—for lunch or dinner, and get three-course prix-fixe meals for $23 and $39, respectively. For a real treat, head to one of our favorites, GK Bistronomie {218 NW 25th Street, Wynwood; 786.477.5151} and find modern Peruvian plates, like lobster empanadas and crispy pork belly with sundried potato “stew,” on the Spice menu.

Barley an American Brasserie Opens Its Doors
A new restaurant, Barley an American Brasserie {8945 SW 72 Place, Miami; 786.623.6733}, the latest culinary venture by Chef Jorgie Ramos, opened its doors this week. Located in Downtown Dadeland, this haute gastropub will serve rustic Americana comfort food with Latin and Asian influences: from charred octopus with seaweed, miso aioli, and a farro salad, to braised beef tongue with yucca mofongo and sofrito salad, lamb neck filet doused in a horseradish tzatziki, and the Latin burger topped with chorizo cantimpalo, sweet plantains, manchego, and a chimichurri aioli. Go there for its daily mac ‘n’ cheese rotation and specialty craft beer, cocktail and boutique wine menu, and stay for the relaxed vibes and hearty, creative cuisine. 

National Pizza Month Starts Saturday, October 1st
This Saturday is the start of an entire month dedicated to pizza – and that’s something we believe everyone should celebrate. Don’t know where to go? Try Dolce Italian {1690 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.975.2550}, on Miami Beach. It has a Tartufata Pizza that puts a unique twist on the classic cheese variety with savory blanca cheese, speck, spicy salami and truffle. Another delicious option is La Moderna {1874 Bay Road, Miami Beach; 786.717.7274}, where you can enjoy their traditional, but unparalleled, Margherita Pizza in a casual-chic setting. 

Ocio Launches New Happy Hour
Miami’s favorite new escape, Ocio {3399 NW 72nd Avenue, Doral; 786.360.4468} is unveiling a happy hour at its secluded and chic retreat. Tucked away in Doral, this Italian-driven locale invites guests to come on Thursday and Friday nights, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., and get a complimentary appetizer with the purchase of a glass of wine or beer. With your glass, delight in plates like fried mozzarella with homemade marinara sauce, Antipasto (salami, capicola, prosciutto, parmesan cheese, artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers), or the Octopus Carpaccio, thinly-sliced octopus with capers and steeped in an aromatic lemon vinaigrette.

Sunday Brunch at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar
Between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Sundays, there’s nowhere better to be than brunch at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar {2550 NW 2nd Avenue, Wynwood; 305.722.8959}. Order Latin-inspired dishes like the Wynwood Benedict with poached egg, crabmeat, chipotle hollandaise sauce and polenta, or the Tostada with a sunny side-up egg, tomato puree, black beans, cojita cheese and crema. You can never go wrong with the locale’s Steak & Eggs, a grilled skirt steak served with a fried egg and yucca frita, and whatever you do, pair it with a breakfast cocktail. Our personal favorites are the Prosecco cocktails—you get a nice glass of Prosecco flavored with your choice of Hibiscus, Palomimosa, Applish or Blue Pisco.

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

Tiramesu

The latest news from Miami Beach’s exploding South of Fifth neighborhood is the reopening of TiramesU {101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.532.4538}, a South Beach staple for over 25 years. The restaurant debuted in 1988 on Ocean Drive and later moved to a prime location on Lincoln Road, where it reigned for 17 years. The Italian restaurant caused a stir when it closed its doors in April of last year, announcing that it would soon reopen in the SoFi district. And now, after a seemingly endless hiatus, the restaurant has finally reemerged under the new managing ownership of Valeria Longoni.

tiramesu

The brand-new location, situated on the unassuming corner of First Street and Washington Avenue, is an open space featuring a bustling bar adjacent to an intimate dining area. Italian interior designer Francesco Fregonese pays homage to the old setting in subtle details while infusing the new space with contemporary touches. A horizontal window along the back wall gives diners a peek into the inner workings of the kitchen. Cool blues, beige walls, and a dark-gray quartz bar create a slightly nautical feel, while elegant chandeliers and candelabras create a warm and cozy ambience.

Tiramesu

For the new and improved space, Italian-born and trained Chef Fabrizio Pintus introduces a new and improved modern Italian menu featuring traditional dishes with unexpected (albeit very much welcomed) twists. We started with the Burrata, which instead of being served with sliced tomatoes, was served atop a bed of pappa al pomodoro, a thick tomato paste prepared with finely chopped tomatoes.

Tiramesu

Burrata

Although the pastas are labeled under “primi piatti,” they are large and hearty enough to enjoy as a main course. We settled on the Rigatoni, served with eggplant, tomato sauce, pine nuts, and dry ricotta cheese, and the Fettuccini, which is actually kale fettuccini served with a rabbit ragoût.

rigatoni

Rigatoni

tiramesu

Fettuccini

Standout second piatti include the Filetto di Manzo, an ounce sterling beef tenderloin with smoked eggplant and rosemary jus; and the Branzino, Mediterranean sea bass with saffron cauliflower and asparagus.

Tiramesu_0926152966

Filetto di Manzo

Beautifully presented, each plate constituted a surprising kaleidoscope of colors and textures, yielding simple yet astoundingly flavorful dishes. Be sure to pair any dish with a glass of fine wine from the extensive wine list or a specialty drink from the creative cocktail menu.

tiramesu

And, of course, no visit to TiramesU would be complete without trying the restaurant’s namesake dessert. We recommend the Tiramisù Sampler trio featuring a selection of both unique and traditional flavors, including chocolate, espresso, strawberry, red pepper, and mixed berries.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Chef Danny Elmaleh

It’s finally here! SBE’s highly anticipated new hot spot Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901} has officially opened its doors. Set on the sand in this up-and-coming neighborhood just north of Miami, Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails encompasses 10,000 square feet over three levels, including three full-service bars, private dining spaces and meeting rooms, a boutique retail store, a members-only rooftop area, and more. Its three distinct dining areas will be overseen by Chef Danny Elmaleh, the culinary mastermind behind many of SBE’s renowned restaurants, including the award-winning Cleo. Here, we talk with the experienced chef about his latest culinary venture.

1. Tell us a bit about your background. What made you decide you wanted to be a chef?
I’m originally from Israel. I moved to Japan when I was 9 and lived there for more than 20 years. Both my father and the original Iron Chef in Japan inspired my decision to go to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in New York.

2. How did you end up working with SBE? What drew you to the brand?
I joined SBE to help with the Katsuya brand seven years ago, and my role within the company has grown over the years. At the time, the innovative brand was reinventing the hospitality scene and that really drew me toward working with them.

3. What about Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails made you want to be involved?
The fact that it is a ground-up property right on the beach; it’s a rare opportunity to work on a project in such a great location.

4. Tell us about the overall menu concept.
The concept is new American, featuring great seafood classics that one can expect at such a location as well as exciting small plates and twists on traditional dishes that will leave guests yearning for more.

5. How do the menus differ from floor to floor?
The first floor serves a great breakfast from our Skinny Phat menu from 7-11am, offering healthy options as well as decadent over-the-top menu items. From 11am-6pm, we have our beach shack offering for guests who are looking to have a meal on the beach or at the bar. These are great options for families and groups.

The second floor is definitely the culinary highlight of the property, offering the full experience. Here, we offer great raw bar and crudo options as well as fresh pastas and pizzas and an incredible view. All of our seafood and meats are grilled over charcoal in our Josper ovens. There are also lots of exciting small plates options.

The third floor is our exclusive members floor with a small menu to enjoy by the pool and bar.

6. What are your personal favorite items on the menu?
The Pumpkin Butter Rolls! They are brioche rolls baked with butter, brushed with butter, and served with a side of butter. Nothing goes better with seafood than butter, so these are a great pairing for our seafood platter, and the perfect way to start the meal. The twist offered by the pumpkin and spice makes them one-of-a-kind.

7. What do you hope will surprise visitors when they dine here?
I hope people can experience new flavors they haven’t ever had before.

8. Do you have a favorite cooking show on TV?
I love watching Japanese cooking programs.

9. What local chefs or celebrity chefs do you admire?
Michael Pirolo of Macchialina; he always has great food.

10. Do you have a favorite food or food guilty pleasure?
In-N-Out Burger!

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Looking for ideas on where to eat this upcoming long weekend? From rooftop parties to new restaurant openings to Miami Spice specials, we’ve got you covered.  Here are Miami Labor Day 2015 happenings.

Friday, September 4:

Gale South Beach

Gale South Beach Rooftop

Bubbles & BBQ at the Gale South Beach
Kick off the weekend right on the rooftop of the Gale South Beach {1690 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.673.0199} for a Bubbles & BBQ soiree. The party starts early—at 6pm—which means you’ll be there to watch the sunset while sipping a glass of Veuve Clicquot accompanied by delicious barbecue bites. Sounds from local band Psychic Mirrors and DJ Michelle Leshem will be bouncing off the rooftop pool until 11pm. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here.

Saturday, September 5:

Torrijas Piripi

Torrijas from Piripi

Brunch Espectacular at Piripi
Merrick Park’s newest restaurant Piripi {320 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.448.2423} has now expanded its popular Sunday Brunch “Espectacular” to Saturdays. New Executive Chef Angelina Bastidas shows off her culinary prowess with a twist on traditional Spanish cuisine, offering a three-course prix-fixe brunch menu for just $27 per person. In keeping with the true meaning of Piripi (Spanish for “tipsy”) you can also enjoy bottomless sangría and mimosas for an additional $17 per person.

Cheesecake from Oceanaire

Cheesecake from The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Dinner for two at The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Head to Mary Brickell Village for dinner for a romantic evening at The Oceanaire Seafood Room {900 South Miami Avenue, Brickell; 305.372.8862}. For a limited time, the restaurant is offering a special three-course dinner for two plus a bottle of wine, all for just $75. Still full from brunch earlier in the day? Not to worry. This special is available from September 1-7.

Sunday, September 6:

american social

Sensation Sunday Party at American Social
Toast to having Monday off of work at American Social Brickell {690 Southwest First Court, Brickell; 305.223.7004} while enjoying tunes spun by DJ Madd Linx. Be sure to rock your best white attire, as it’s technically “unacceptable” to wear white after Labor Day. The party starts at 9pm, when ladies wearing all white will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne.

Monday, September 7:

Goat Cheese Salad from Brasserie Azur

Goat Cheese Salad from Brasserie Azur

Lunch at Brasserie Azur—Now Open
Brasserie Azur {3252 Northeast First Avenue, Midtown; 786.800.9993}, the highly anticipated sister restaurant to Miami Beach staple Villa Azur is finally open! Become one of the lucky firsts to experience a plethora of options, including a rotisserie station, a seafood bar, a massive wine list, a foosball table, hookah, and more. Oh, and the restaurant is offering a Miami Spice lunch menu, too (just $23 per person).

HYDE beach kitchen + cocktails

Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails

Mojito Monday at Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails—Now Open!
More brand-new culinary adventures await this Labor Day at Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901}. Mondays are dubbed “Mojito Mondays,” when you can enjoy $8 mojitos all night long. If you don’t make it in time for a table, you can enjoy your mojitos beachside. Watch the final sunset to the long weekend and toast to a delicious Labor Day weekend and the fall season ahead.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

9beach miami

Just when you think that South Beach had exhausted its list of trendy nightlife destinations, a new place pops up that makes all its predecessors seem, well, a bit bland. 9beach Miami {1626 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.327.6073} has managed to do just that—emerging as one of the hottest places in town.

But don’t think that 9beach Miami is just another of-the-moment SoBe hot spot that could be uprooted at the blink of an eye. Owner Itay Sacish assured us that he and his partners are in this for the long haul. “We’ve only been open a month and we’re already packed several nights out of the week,” he says. And come November, just in time for the busy season, they expect to be at the top of every visitor’s must-do list.

9beach miami

Inspired by the original 9beach that opened in Tel Aviv in 2001, 9beach Miami is a mixture of Eastern and Western influences paired with a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. Dramatic flashes of purple, pink, and orange lights set the mood for this outrageous indoor-outdoor space, coupled with ornate hand-carved gold accents, brazen lion heads, and rock band lyrics splashed all around. And although the 5,000-square-foot patio sits along Collins Avenue, high booths, large white tents, and lush greenery make you feel more like you’re in a secluded garden than on a busy street.

9beach miami

The vibrant atmosphere, however, does not distract from the caliber of the restaurant’s cuisine. In keeping with the Mediterranean vibe, there’s plenty of hummus and couscous to go around. But the overall menu is as diverse as its surroundings. There’s even an entire menu dedicated to sushi. We recommend the Dragon Roll—shrimp tempura, asparagus, and scallion with avocado and kabayaki sauce on top.

9beach miami

Not expecting our plates to be large, we also order the Crispy Shrimp and Dumplings (pictured above) as an appetizer, which could be a meal in and of itself! For our main courses, we ordered the Filet Mignon and the Moroccan Chicken (pictured below). Both exquisitely presented and perfectly flavored.

9beach miami

We dined on a Tuesday night, which meant that as we were finishing our meal, the space was gearing up for “Pour Some Sugar On Me” Tuesdays. An exotic belly dancer appeared at the entrance, a DJ took over the music, and flocks of beautiful people started making their way into the space.

IMG_7289

9Beach promises to not only be a nighttime spot, but a daytime destination as well—it’s open daily from 9am-noon for breakfast and from noon-4pm for lunch. There’s also a late-night menu served from midnight-2am. Come dressed to the nines or in your beach cover-up. At 9beach Miami, anything goes.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

The Continental- Exterior (credit Alex Markow)

Earlier this month, DiningOut had the privilege of eating at one of South Beach’s newest and most anticipated restaurant openings of the summer: The Continental {2360 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.604.2000}. Yes, that’s right—it’s the same Continental as the famed Philadelphia eatery and martini bar that launched the career of restaurateur extraordinaire Stephen Starr.

This is the fourth dining venture that the restaurant mogul has brought to South Florida (following in the successful footsteps of Steak 954 at the W Fort Lauderdale, Makoto at Bal Harbour Shops, and Verde at the Pérez Art Museum Miami). It’s a fitting time for this opening, as the original location is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The Continental- Interior (credit Alex Markow)

Though inspired by its Philly roots, The Continental Miami (designed by Shawn Hausman Design) has a vibe of its own, a sort of tropical-retro décor featuring greenery and bamboo accents throughout. The aesthetic translates onto the front patio facing Collins Avenue with white wrought-iron chairs and bold red and blue cushions.

Cocktails are a driving force behind the success of the original Continental, and the Miami location is no different. Working at DiningOut has its perks, and we were able to try three of the restaurant’s signature cocktails: the Dominicana Old Fashioned, La Florida Daiquiri, and the Island Thyme Sangría (pictured below, left to right). All were beautifully presented and equally tasty in their own way.

Continental Miami

At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Matthew Oetting, who most recently was executive chef of Starr’s Caffe Storico in New York City. He worked closely with Erik Battes, Starr’s corporate chef, who has worked at New York’s Morimoto and Jean-Georges, to develop the menu. The result is an amalgamation of international flavors, from the Chinese specialties to the Puerto Rican Crispy Pork to the build-your-own sushi, where tuna, salmon, sushi rice, toasted nori, vegetables, and garnishes are presented in a bento box with instructions on how to be your own sushi master.

Philly cheesesteak eggroll

We started off with two amazing appetizers: the fantastically gooey, melt-in-your-mouth Cheesesteak Eggroll (above), another nod to the restaurant’s Philly roots, and the succulent Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes and Berries salad (below).

Continental Miami

For our main course, we split two standout dishes: the peppercorn-crusted Steak au Poivre—a juicy slab of beef with just the right amount of kick—and the Sizzling Seafood Wor Bar, mixture of lobster, shrimp, scallops, and seasonal veggies in a light garlic-based sauce, which comes out of the kitchen steaming hot like fajitas.

IMG_2611

With just enough room for dessert, we decided to try the most curious of the bunch: the Crackerjack Sundae, a mixture of popcorn ice cream, caramel popcorn, toasted peanuts, and caramel sauce. We were unsure about the popcorn ice cream, but in reality it tasted a lot more like vanilla, creating a decadent salty-sweet combination of flavors.

In all, it was a fun and flavorful evening with attentive and accommodating service. We’re looking forward to returning soon—especially once The Continental launches its forthcoming lunch and brunch menus.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Because we can’t get enough of Miami Spice, our original Top 5 list of restaurants new to the program somehow seemed to be lacking. So, here are five additional restaurants making their Spice debuts that are giving classic establishments a run for their money.

Market at Edition

1. Market at EDITION {2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.257.4600}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily
The Miami Beach EDITION is South Beach’s newest spot to see and be seen, and its two dining options by Jean-Georges Vongerichten ensure that things will stay this way. The more casual of the two, Market at EDITION is a reinvention of a gourmet marketplace. The chic open space just steps from the hotel’s lobby features a series of bustling stations, including a raw bar, a charcuterie station, a sushi bar, and a gourmet pastry station featuring freshly baked treats and a create-your-own sundae bar.
Our Appetizer Pick: Three-Piece Charcuterie—chef’s selection of three gourmet cured meats and imported cheeses
Our Entrée Pick: Florida Snapper with bok choy and ginger dressing
Our Dessert Pick: Salted Caramel Sundae—salted caramel ice cream with candied peanuts and popcorn, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce

Red Ginger

Miso Sea Bass

2. Red Ginger {736 First Street, Miami Beach; 305.433.6876}
Spice menu available for dinner Tuesday-Sunday
This Southeast Asian concept from Menin Hospitality opened less than two months ago and it’s already making its Miami Spice debut with a three-course Japanese-inspired dinner menu. For an additional $10, pair your meal with a glass of Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, or Cava.
Our Appetizer Pick: El Mar Ceviche (tuna, salmon, octopus, wahoo, and aji limo)—it’s an extra $10, but well worth it
Our Entrée Pick: Miso Sea Bass with saikyo, miso, spinach, coconut foam, and garlic confit
Our Dessert Pick: There’s only one option here, and it’s the Mochi, a deliciously sweet Japanese rice cake

tamarina

Spinach Ravioli

3. Tamarina {600 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.579.1888}
Spice menu available for lunch Monday-Friday and Dinner nightly
Join Tamarina for a tour of Italy’s best coastal dishes while enjoying views of bustling Brickell Avenue on the cozy wraparound terrace. While dinner menus are often the highlight of most Spice menus, due to its proximity the many office buildings in Downtown and Brickell, we suggest trying Tamarina for lunch. It’s the perfect spot for a lunch with colleagues or clients to break up the busy work week.
Our Appetizer Pick: Arugula Salad with caramelized pears, candied walnuts, pecorino, speck, and apples
Our Entrée Pick: Spinach Ravioli with ricotta cheese in a sage-butter sauce
Our Dessert Pick: Any flavor of gelato is good by us

9beach miami

4. 9Beach Miami {1628 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.208.1988}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily
Just two weeks after its official grand opening, 9Beach Miami may very well be the newest restaurant to make its first Miami Spice appearance. The fusion kitchen and lounge concept is the first U.S. outpost from 9beach Group, whose successful establishments can be found throughout Israel and in London. At the helm is Executive Chef Tal Aboav from the original 9beach in Tel Aviv, who places emphasis on top-quality ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and artful presentations.
Our Appetizer Pick: Dorade Capriccio topped with garden vegetables, tomato seeds, and chile lime sauce
Our Entrée Pick: Frutti di Mare Fritto with Mediterranean red mullet, shrimp, and calamari served with ginger-cucumber aïoli and a creamy tzatziki sauce
Our Dessert Pick: Halvah Parfait—dark chocolate shells served on a sweet crumble with fresh berries

Tantalize

Lamb Foie Gras Meatballs

5. Tantalize {330 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.695.1401}
Spice Menu available for dinner Tuesday-Saturday
If you still haven’t been to Tantalize, you’re in for a treat. Why not indulge your senses for the first time during Miami Spice, when can enjoy the restaurant’s signature dishes at prices up to 50-percent off.
Our Appetizer Pick: Lamb Foie Gras Meatballs with Sherry foie gras sauce, pistachio chimichurri, mushroom chicharrón, and everything crouton
Our Entrée Pick: Cuban Boxer—braised pork shoulder with yuca, black-bean purée, and pickled cabbage salad
Our Dessert Pick: Quinoa Coconut Pudding—lucuma ice cream and toasted coconut

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Chef Angelina Bastidas

The Village of Merrick Park’s newest eatery Piripi {320 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.448.2423} opened its doors in March with a bang. Already, it’s stirring the pot by introducing a brand-new executive chef: Angelina Bastidas.

At only 25 years old, Bastidas has had more than her fair share of culinary experience. She was still a student at Le Cordon Bleu when she began her career at Wish with Marco Ferraro (a Jean-Georges protégée). She then honed her skills in a number of Miami’s top dining destinations before taking on the position of chef de cuisine at South Beach’s popular Tongue & Cheek, where she was selected by Zagat Miami as one of the 30 Under 30 Miami Rock Stars Redefining the Industry.

Just weeks into her new position at Piripi, we had the opportunity to talk with Chef Bastidas about her background, her inspiration, what changes she has in store for the new menus, and even her guilty pleasures.

1. Tell us a bit about your history.
I am originally from the Bronx, but I was raised in Miami and my background is Dominican-Colombian. I have been interested in food since I was a young girl—I grew up with it as part of our family culture. As soon as I graduated high school, I enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu, and after two weeks, I started working in the kitchen at Wish. I’ve also worked at Area 31, The Bazaar by José Andrés, The Biltmore Palme d’Or, and Tongue & Cheek.

2. What drew you to Piripi?
As soon as I heard there was a restaurant opening named Piripi, I was intrigued. To me, it’s a word that perfectly describes Miami (“piripi” is Spanish for “tipsy”). I remember the first time I walked into the restaurant; I was really impressed with the space itself—it’s beautiful and immense—and I guess I felt a little “piripi” myself just walking in the door.

3. Tell us about the new menus. What are some changes you’re making?
We are introducing new brunch, lunch, and kids’ menus, and at some point, a happy hour menu. We have such a great bar, I’d love to see some dishes suited just for dining there. I am also restructuring the dinner menu; there will be a mix of new dishes, plus re-creations of some that are already on the menu. New dishes that I’m excited about are the Chistorra Piripi, the Roasted Beet Salad, and the classic Shrimp al Ajillo. In the future, I also plan on expanding the charcuterie menu, where we can feature housemade meats, torchons, terrines, etc.

4. What is your personal favorite menu item?
My personal favorite has to be the Chistorra Piripi. It’s probably going to be the biggest hit for Piripi yet. It has crispy potatoes, poached egg, and pan-fried chistorra with a Manchego espuma that melts in your mouth!

5. What might surprise visitors about Pirpi if they are coming in for the first time?
I think the first thing guests notice when they walk in has to be the extravagant artwork over the bar. I also think that some of the new dishes and composed plates we are presenting will surprise visitors—even those who are regulars. We are not changing the cuisine, we are reinventing it. At our core, we are still a Spanish restaurant, but we are ready to have fun with our food, with different textures and flavors.

6. How does Miami play a part when creating menu items, selecting ingredients, etc.?
Our location in Miami always defines my menus. I love to embrace what’s local and in season—that’s key to how I create my menus.

7. What Miami chefs or celebrity chefs do you admire?
Florida chefs I admire would have to be Norman Van Aken, Lindsay Autry, and Jeremy Ford. Celebrity chefs I admire are Curtis Duffy, Emeril Lagasse, and Daniel Barber.

8. Do you have a favorite cooking show on TV?
If I had to pick, it would probably have to be “Kitchen Nightmares.” Although it gives me major anxiety, it helps me improve on “cleanliness!”

9. Do you have a favorite food or guilty food pleasure?
My go-to has to be Hershey’s Pie. It relieves me from all the stress I deal with at work.

10. What do you love most about working at Piripi so far?
Working with the Piripi family has been a pleasure. Everyone is committed to doing their best and working as a team. When you’re around great energy, the workflow is just so much smoother.

By Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor

“Out with the old, in with the new,” is how the saying goes. But in the case of the three restaurants below, it’s more like, “Out with the old, in with the improved.” Here, a look at three highly anticipated restaurant openings for the summer:

PB Station

PB Station {121 Southeast First Street, Downtown; 305.532.7555}
Pubbelly “goes new American” this summer with the opening of PB Station, the first dining concept outside Miami Beach’s city limits for the Pubbelly Boys’ (Jose Mendin, Andreas Schreiner, and Sergio Navarro of Pubbelly, Pubbelly Sushi, and L’Echon Brasserie fame).

Located on the ground level of the new Langford Hotel in Downtown Miami, PB Station will be led by Executive Chef Guillermo Concha, who will offer original dishes inspired by the restaurant group’s former concepts PB Steak and PB Fish such as the Ceviche Taquitos, Steak Tartare Sliders, and French Onion Soup Dumplings, plus carefully selected à la carte steak and poultry cuts, with seafood selections varying daily based on what is fresh and local.

Tiramesu

TiramesU {101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach}
The latest buzz in Miami Beach’s exploding South of Fifth neighborhood is the highly anticipated reopening of TiramesU, the 25-plus-year-old establishment that has been a South Beach staple since its inception.

The restaurant made its debut in 1988 on Ocean Drive and later moved to a prime location on Lincoln Road, where it reigned for 17 years. The Italian restaurant caused a stir when it closed its doors in April of last year, announcing that it would soon reopen in the SoFi district. And now, after a seemingly forever hiatus, the time has finally come for it to reemerge bigger and better than ever.

Chef Fabrizio Pintus, who has been at the helm of the kitchen since 2010, will resume his role as executive chef, offering up a new and improved menu featuring the same authentic Italian flavors with a fun, contemporary twist.

CENA by michy

CENA by Michy {6927 Biscayne Boulevard, Midtown; 305 759 2001}
Unlike TiramesU, which is essentially an old restaurant in a new location, CENA by Michy is a new restaurant in an old location. After a 10-month closure and a total renovation, James Beard Award-winning Chef Michelle Bernstein’s landmark eatery Michy has reopened its doors, but with an entirely new name, look, menu, and spirit.

CENA by Michy has shucked the original incarnation’s bright colors and cottage-chic décor for a clean, white color palette complemented by dark chrome starburst chandeliers. The menu is approachable yet adventurous, boasting soul-pleasing favorites as well as an array of dishes inspired by what Bernstein says are her current culinary obsessions. The menu will feature nightly selections from the restaurant’s new rotisserie and has already been praised for its innovative and Latin-inspired flavors for which Bernstein is known.

By Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor