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Home / Posts Tagged "restaurant features"

6:04 pm
Restaurant Features
1

A true testament to the will of owners Manuel and Tina Torterola, Lilikoi has remained open for pick-up and delivery; And now, they are taking it one step further by offering fresh, wholesome ingredients with an organic grocery menu.

Since opening their door in 2016, Lilikoi has gained loyal customers simply by doing things the right way. Before the Miami Beach ban on plastic at restaurants, Lilikoi had already been single-use plastic-free. Before sustainable had made it into our everyday lexicon, Lilikoi knew no other way of running their business and handling their food. Lilikoi’s organic living is a reflection of chef and co-owner Manuel and his life partner Tina Torterola. 

Lilikoi Organic Living, Miami Beach
Co-owner Manuel in the kitchen

A chef-driven, casual restaurant, Lilikoi provides dishes inspired by the eastern philosophy concept of living in harmony with nature. Manuel’s core value, when it comes to food, has to do with the integrity of how food is handled, cooked, and shared. He oversees every detail and culinary aspect of his food, from creating every single item from scratch or sourcing it from the best providers to serving food that is made as it is ordered. Even the fish is smoked in-house with local wood!

Behind Lilikoi’s philosophy lies Manuel’s unique upbringing in Argentina. He grew up eating and understanding food as an essential aspect of our health. He and his family would feast on a garden salad every night, and when sick, they would resort to using Chinese medicinal tinctures instead of reaching for the pill cabinet. At an early age, he was introduced to the Eastern concept that supplying the best nutrition through wholesome and freshly prepared foods is key to our health and vitality. 

Lilikoi’s organic living motto is not limited to serving food. For Tina and Manuel, organic living encompasses interacting with every part of life in this same way, with their peers or with a stranger on the street. Organic living is extending kindness in every aspect of our lives. Manuel defines food by likening it to comfort and art, to a bridge between people in good company, a conversation, a sunset, or a memory with friends. 

Lilikoi Organic Living, Miami Beach
Lilikoi Organic Living, Miami Beach

Lilikoi’s menu offers warm, filling, and savory dishes inspired by Hawaiian cuisine—hence the name Lilikoi, which means passionfruit. The menu boasts plant-based options as well as animal-protein dishes with high quality and responsibly sourced meat and fish. Manuel recommends the poke bowl with salmon or his farro -heirloom grain- trumpet mushroom risotto.

You can now order organic groceries online on Lilikoi’s website.

Lilikoi Organic Living
500 South Pointe Dr #180, Miami Beach, FL 33139; T:(305) 763-8692

By contributing writer Pamela Wasabi

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3:58 pm
Restaurant Features
0

People watching on Miami Beach is fun – the 305 is home to a diverse cast of characters. It’s even more fun when you have great drinks and food along for the ride. And in a nutshell, that’s A Fish Called Avalon. 

This Ocean Drive establishment gives guests a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of South Beach’s iconic street, all while providing a quality dining experience. While this part of the beach is often associated with tourist traps, A Fish Called Avalon proves that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover – or location. The seafood-focused eatery is a cut above the rest on the beach… and beyond.

A big reason for that: options galore. The vast menu covers all the bases when it comes to seafood – no palate is left unattended. Raw bar fans will drool over selections like the restaurant’s ceviche tasting and jumbo shrimp cocktail. Those who want to double down on this section can invest in the Seafood Festival, which lives up to its name: 24 oysters, 16 mussels, 12 shrimp, 2 whole Maine lobsters, lump crab meat salad… and more. Needless to say, bring a big party. 

A Fish Called Avalon seafood entree
Crab-crusted grouper

While the tried-and-true items like Spanish octopus are delicious, A Fish Called Avalon really shines with its unique signature offerings. The restaurant’s Bang Bang Shrimp features a turmeric curry spice mix and mint yogurt sauce that starts off refreshing before hitting your palate with a nice, little kick – it’s a “best of both worlds” situation. Just as impressive is the crab-crusted grouper with a Chenin blanc butter sauce. The combination of flavors from this duo results in a vibrant entrée that warrants its $40+ price tag. 

If you only follow one of our recommendations, make it this one: order the key lime pie. Yes, key lime pies are a dime a dozen in South Florida, but odds are you haven’t had one like this – it’s the 2019 National Pie Champion for a reason. That reason is the pecan crust, which replaces the typical graham crust you’re accustomed to. The resultant crunch and change in flavor should perk your taste buds right up.  

National Pie Championship 2019 winner - A Fish Called Avalon
Pecan-crusted key lime pie

Your dining experience at A Fish Called Avalon wouldn’t be complete without one of their handcrafted cocktails. FYI: Many of the mixed drinks are on the sweeter side; apple martinis, mojitos, daiquiris and the like should be expected. But guests who like their drinks with some edge need not fear, as A Fish Called Avalon boasts a notable lineup of single malts, ryes, and bourbons (plus other spirits, of course). Looking to save a few dollars? The restaurant hosts a daily happy hour from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with discounted drinks and complimentary bites. 

Whether you visit during happy hour for a few drinks or come for a full-fledged dinner, you can expect a consistent experience at A Fish Called Avalon – one filled with tasty seafood, refreshing (or stiff) cocktails, and a great view of the interesting people that frequent the beach. Oh, and did we mention there’s live music regularly? Just make a reservation already. 

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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6:30 pm
Restaurant Features
0

It may seem unlikely but tucked away in an unassuming shopping strip in Key Biscayne is Kazumi a fantastic spot for sushi and Japanese Izakaya-style eats. Owned by the same team that operates Costa Med this chic spot is perfect for a quick bite in between jaunts to Virginia Key or for a leisurely dinner with out-of-town friends.

Kazumi specializes in modern Asian cooking. Dinner can be had in a flurry of small plates of Japanese pub-style food like maki rolls, dumplings and robata-grilled meats and vegetables. Kazumi’s menu comprises Pan-Asian staples like sushi, sashimi, specialty rolls and composed entrees. Prices are not as high as expected with starters $8-$18, maki rolls $12-$16 and mains $20-$45 range. The lunchtime $10 bento box is an unbeatable deal with choices of salad, rolls and yakitori chicken or beef.

The small-but-mighty restaurant features a sleek interior design with a second-floor loft and floor-to-ceiling windows. There is ample seating outside where umbrella-outfitted tables provide shade. A team of sushi chefs holds court in the back of the restaurant with pulsating music keeping time with all the maki action.

Kazumi Key Biscayne

If you’re not afraid of spice, go for the wok-fried shishito peppers, a ubiquitous Tokyo bar snack. From there it’s on to crispy crab salad, miso soup and homemade gyoza filled with vegetables or pork. The sushi rolls stretch the bounds of fusion cooking with combos like the Fire roll made with baked spicy tuna, cucumber, cream cheese, avocado and topped with spicy tuna or the Sex on the Beach made with shrimp tempura, fried kani kama and crab salad with yuzu tobico. The Robata section offers skewers of chicken, beef, jumbo prawns or eggplant while the ramen bowl is pure Japanese comfort food. Hearty mains include grilled ribeye steak, a miso cod or a Kurobuta pork belly.

A bit more approachable and wallet-friendly than other sushi spots in Miami, it’s easy to see why this Asian eatery is a neighborhood staple.

Sara Liss, Contributing Writer

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5:25 pm
Restaurant Features
0

Step inside Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann at Faena Miami Beach Hotel, and prepare yourself for a meal that tantalizes all the senses. This Argentine restaurant from the internationally renowned chef covers all the bases when it comes to an unforgettable dining experience: exceptional food, service, and ambiance. 

Here are four things you need to know about this Mid-Beach gem:

It’s All About the Open-Fire Kitchen 

If the name Francis Mallmann sounds familiar, you’re likely a fan of 1) good food and/or 2) the Netflix series Chef’s Table. Mallmann appeared in the series’ inaugural season, where viewers learned about his love of the grill and fire-based cooking. 

So it’s no surprise that his first restaurant in the states showcases that love. Guests are treated to a wide variety of proteins cooked on the grill, including prime beef tenderloin, Australian lamb rack and hanging prime boneless ribeye. As you’d expect from Mallmann, there’s a huge emphasis on red meat here. If that’s what you’re craving, you’ll be hard pressed to find more flavorful options anywhere else. 

Francis Mallmann empanadas
Wood Oven Empanada

Expect Quite the First Impression 

High ceilings, magnificent chandeliers, and swashes of red and gold are among the first things you’ll notice when you visit; it’s like stepping onto a movie set. This space feels huge, yet despite its size, it also feels surprisingly intimate. While the first impression we got was “This is a special occasion place,” we left our meal thinking,“We need to come back as quickly as possible.” 

During our visit, we saw everyone from couples and parties to tourists and celebrities and everyone in between. All are welcome, and it was interesting to see such a diverse crowd on a regular weekday evening. The best part: Everyone received the same attentive service around us. The wait staff didn’t seem to miss a beat. 

These Prices … Wow

We’d be lying if we said we weren’t expecting fine-dining prices a Los Fuegos. So imagine our surprise when we sat down and saw that its prices were affordable (and honestly, a steal). Yes, there are entrees like the tomahawk and porterhouse with prices in the triple digits, but given their size, that’s expected. The $160 parrillada — a crowd favorite — is big enough for a party of four; it comes with skirt steak, ribeye, blood sausage, lamb and various accompaniments. As a party of 2, we had leftovers for a few days. 

But as we stated earlier, those dishes are the exception: Most entrees run in the high $20 to high $40 range and are large enough to share. Appetizers clock in at even lower, with Mallmann’s famous empanadas among the most inexpensive selections at $8. We’re partial to the pink grapefruit salad, though. On that note …

Los Fuegos appetizer
Pink Grapefruit Salad

Meat Isn’t Everything Here

When you think of Argentine cuisine, meat is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And while it’s indeed the focus of Los Fuegos, there are plenty of alternatives to go around for non-meat enthusiasts. In addition to the pink grapefruit salad — which we can’t stop thinking about it — guests should consider the Mediteranean branzino with herbed quinoa salad as well as the roasted cauliflower, two selections touted by our server. A fish version of the parrillada is available should you feel like splurging; this one comes with the branzino, octopus, snapper and local lobster. 

In the end, there is no wrong choice at Los Fuegos. All palates are represented here, and no matter what you order, you can expect a world-class dining experience backed by a world-class chef. As for us, we’re busy setting up our next reservation.

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5:21 pm
Restaurant Features
1

Miami is home to a plethora of Mediterranean and Italian restaurants, but not all are created equal. Located at the heart of South Beach and one of its nicest neighborhoods Sunset Harbour, Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante rises above the others with its unique atmosphere, quality food, and an excellent selection of wine. 

The spacious restaurant is decorated with warm and cozy colors and the lighting is on par with the decoration to create that welcoming feeling for diners. Tables are cleverly spread out across the restaurant and there is ample space to accommodate large groups. That’s why it’s popular among locals to celebrate special occasions and host events here. There’s also a more secluded area for diners who seek a more intimate dining experience, which makes the restaurant an ideal destination for a first date, or a romantic night out. Like most restaurants in Sunset Harbor, Sardinia has tables outside for those who want to breathe in the breeze from the bay. 

Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante, italian Restaurant in Miami Beach

The restaurant’s rich menu is inspired by the rustic cuisine of chef and restaurateur Pietro Vardeu’s native Sardinia. Unlike many others, Sardinia displays a wood oven in the middle of the restaurant and the staff proudly suggests anything wood oven-baked from the menu. Salumeria, the delicatessen section on the menu, offers fresh cold cuts and the Italian cheese you will fall in love with. The Mozzarella bar is rich with options you cannot resist.

When it comes to pasta, Sardinia manages to step forward among other restaurants in Miami as well. The housemade pastas are tastefully matched with seafood like baby clams and squid or red meat selections such as veal or boar sausages. The restaurant also takes pride in its couscous. All these dishes are enriched with Mediterranean spices and sauces such as saffron and pesto. 

Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante, italian Restaurant in Miami Beach

The best way to experience what Sardinia has to offer is to go with the tasting menu. A seven-course culinary journey, the restaurant’s tasting menu combines dishes like arancini, fregola lamb meatballs, and paella di mare, Sardinian couscous with fresh seafood. Every dish is paired with an outstanding glass of Italian wine. 

As expected, Sardinia boasts an impressive selection of over 250 primarily Italian wines and a lively full bar with an array of beers and cocktails. This makes the restaurant a go-to spot for locals to enjoy drinks before dinner, after-work happy hours, and weekend brunches. 

Considering the menu, the location, the service, and all, there are so many reasons to become a fan of Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante. Are you ready to meet your new favorite Italian in town? 

By Caner Kocamaz, contributing writer

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6:35 pm
Restaurant Features
2

Enjoy art, food and fun at this Wynwood Institution

When you think of Wynwood, what comes to mind? Art is usually the first thing that pops up for us: Street murals are everywhere, along with galleries galore. The other thing that comes to mind is food. Over the years, the area has gone from a warehouse district to a dining mecca. But before there was an eatery on every street, there was R House. 

Back in 2014, the restaurant opened when Wynwood was still growing into the beast it has become today. And years later, R House continues to draw crowds for its gorgeous art, globally inspired food and fun vibes. Leading the kitchen is chef/owner Rocco Carulli, who’s the R behind R House. He and his husband Owen Bale have created a concept that fits right into the artsy neighborhood. You’ll be drawn in by the many murals and stay for the food and good times. 

Tuna Tartare

The diverse menu pulls from Carulli’s Italian American heritage; sauces and other flavorful components brighten up familiar dishes like tuna tartare, arancini, and brisket and short rib meatballs. Many of the appetizers skew large – all the more reason to come in a group – so don’t eat with your eyes here (it’s easy to do). One or two appetizers should be enough for parties four or smaller, and you’ll want to save room for Carulli’s even heartier mains.

One big standout is the sweet chili fried chicken, which perfectly walks the line between sweet and spicy; it’s a delicate balance that your taste buds will thoroughly enjoy. There’s just something so satisfying about the kick you get from biting into the extra crispy skin and juicy chicken; we were sad that our entree eventually had to end. 

Braised Short Rib

On the other side of the protein spectrum was the braised short rib, which will take you aback with its size. It’s a dish that you’ll likely end up taking home – we did – and enjoy as leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. You can almost consider it two meals in one; it’s a great value. 

Rounding out the offerings is a small selection of sweets, including Rocco’s popular zeppole. These Italian dough balls with raspberries and chocolate chips are surprisingly light and not overpoweringly sweet. If you don’t want to hate yourself, consider these over the more decadent tres leches or homemade chocolate brownie.

In the end, what we enjoy the most about R House is the fact that it packs many experiences in one place. While we went for a romantic dinner, it’s also a great place for grabbing drinks or watching a show – a drag show, to be exact. 

A “beat the clock” happy hour during the week provides guests with drinks and bites for as low as $3 an item; it’s one of the best deals in the area. And on weekends, R House turns into a party. Saturdays and Sundays are home to the restaurant’s famous drag brunch, where lively performers keep patrons entertained amidst bottomless drinks. If you’re considering coming for brunch, we suggest you make a reservation well in advance – it fills up fast. 

So whatever the occasion, keep R House at the top of your list. Once you visit, you’ll understand why this Wynwood institution has withstood the test of time – and will continue to. 

Geoffrey Anderson, a contributing writer

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1:24 pm
Restaurant Features
0

Upscale cuisine that makes a splash

Celebrating a special occasion? Need to impress a date? Just want some great food? Lobster Bar Sea Grille is what you’re looking for: This South Beach gem serves up a superb menu of seafood classics and favorites in a gorgeous upscale setting. If you’re going to splurge, this is the place to do it.

Before setting foot into Lobster Bar Sea Grille, you should know that there is a dress code. Yes, this is South Beach, but while tank tops and shorts may be the norm outside, it’s best to change into something a bit more appropriate for a dinner here. When you walk in, you’ll immediately see why: It’s a classy establishment, and you’re going to look a bit out of place in an oversized t-shirt.

Once you’ve dressed to the nines, you’re all set for some amazing seafood. Lobster Bar Sea Grille’s wide selection of mouth-watering fare can appear daunting at first — it all sounds so good — but as you’d expect from a place of such high caliber, the jovial staff is more than happy to help you navigate the offerings.

Selected Field Ripe Tomato Salad - Barrel Aged Dodonis Feta
Tomato and Feta Salad

There’s no shortage of starters to begin your meal on a high note. Guests can keep things light with a to-die-for ahi tuna tartare or a refreshing tomato salad or indulge in lightly fried lobster morsels and jumbo lump crab cakes. On ice, an order of the Key West Stone Crab Claws is a must; the menu describes them as colossal, and this description is 100% accurate — they are so MASSIVE that even we were taken aback by the size.  Larger parties should consider the shellfish tower that comes with cold water oysters, seafood ceviche, Alaskan king crab and more delectable items.

With a name like Lobster Bar Sea Grille, it’s no surprise that the restaurant puts the crustacean front and center on its menu. Preparations vary: You can select a whole lobster steamed and cracked, spice things up with a whole chili lobster, or enjoy it in pasta. There’s also the Jumbo Lobster Tail, which the brand made popular back in the 70s.

While the lobster is the eatery’s claim to fame, its variety of whole fish should be on your radar as well — especially if you’re interested in dinner and a show. Dover sole Meuniere, arctic char and branzino are just a few of the options available, and regardless of your choice, the staff will filet it tableside. It’s a fun experience, and the result is a fantastic piece of fish. Throw in a side of hashed potato tots, glazed brussels sprouts or buttery Yukon mash — all of which can feed multiple people — and you have yourself dinner (and probably lunch the next day).

Avocado white soy citronette - puffed tapioca
Ahi Tuna Tartare

Lobster Bar Sea Grille hasn’t forgotten about meat-eaters. The impressive steak roster is a testament to that, with flavorful selections like barrel-cut filet mignon, A5 wagyu, and tomahawk long bone ribeye.  It’s hard not to want them all, and that sentiment extends to desserts. Profiteroles and the tropical pavlova — crisp meringue, passion fruit mousse, and exotic sorbet — are a few of the highlights on a sweets selection that also includes the likes of cheesecake, brownie sundae and apple crumb pie. Goodbye, diet.

No matter the occasion, Lobster Bar Sea Grille provides diners with an unparalleled luxury dining experience. It’s hard not to walk in — and out — impressed with the attention to detail in terms of staff, food, and ambiance. You get what you pay for, and at Lobster Bar Sea Grille, that means a phenomenal meal.

By Geoffrey Anderson, a contributing writer

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10:31 pm
Restaurant Features
0

Italian restaurants are a dime a dozen in Miami. It’s impossible to go a few blocks without running into one. It takes a quality eatery to stand out amidst the crowd – and Zucca does so easily with fantastic fare and impeccable attention to detail. 

There are many reasons to fall in love with Zucca, and first and foremost is the service. From the moment you sit down, you know you’re in for a treat. Servers are knowledgeable and approachable, rattling off answers to your questions without hesitation; they know the menu front to back, and their recommendations – especially for wine – warrant consideration. 

Such a level of service is impressive, especially considering the size of the place. Despite having seating for over 100 guests, this eatery inside Hotel St. Michel feels intimate thanks to the perfectly trained staff. It’s an elegant and romantic ambiance for sure: We saw our fair share of couples there during our Wednesday night visit. That said, it shouldn’t be relegated to your date night or special occasion list, as prices are reasonable for the quality. You can eat like royalty without breaking the bank. 

Although if you did decide to splurge, we wouldn’t stop you: The food is worth every penny. Take the salumi, prosciutti and formaggi options, for instance. Even if you are not the meat and cheese board type, the selections at Zucca will likely make you reconsider. Same for items like the soups and salads, which can often be afterthoughts on a menu. Not here: Options like the Maine lobster salad and fresh kale salad deserve part of the limelight, too.

For antipasti, there’s no shortage of delicious bites – and there’s no wrong choice either. Actually, there is one: not ordering the zucchini blossoms. They have their own section on the menu for a reason, and the reason is they’re that good. If it’s your first time, consider getting the standard ones with mozzarella; they’re a crowd favorite, and you’ll see why at first bite. There’s also an option with ricotta cheese and lemon zest, and depending on the night, other fillings might be an evening special.

While the zucchini blossoms are a must, they’re only one of the many starters offered. Another highlight is the daily crudo, a light and refreshing dish that might be the way to go if you’re ordering a hefty main … and the mains are serious business. Case in point: the pastas. All the classics are here, like spaghetti, tagliatelle, gnocchi, ravioli, sedanini … the list goes on. They’re dishes you’re familiar with – Zucca doesn’t reinvent the wheel. Instead, it refines it. You might have had sedanini before, but it’s likely you haven’t had it this good. 

Zucca’s sedandini

If you aren’t in the mood for pasta, the wait staff will likely mention the Chilean sea bass, another best-seller. Listen to your server: the pan-seared fish comes atop “venere” black rice and is gorgeous to look at (and a delight to eat). At $46, it’s definitely one of the more expensive dishes at Zucca, but it’s not hard to see why. The restaurant also offers lamb chops, baby chicken, ossobuco and an assortment of other proteins. Desserts are equally diverse, with both light and decadent selections including tiramisu, apple tarte and sorbet. 

In a sea of Italian restaurants, Zucca stands above the rest. You’re not just enjoying lunch or dinner here – it’s a culinary journey through Italy. And this is one adventure you don’t want to miss.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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12:56 am
Restaurant Features
0

Innovative Asian Cuisine Awaits

Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

At Pao By Paul Qui, it pays to be adventurous. The Asian restaurant inside Faena Miami Beach draws from an extensive list of influences, including Japanese, Spanish, and Filipino. This mix of cultures ultimately results in an unforgettable meal you’ll still be talking about well after it’s over.

First things first: Hats off to Pao for its very user-friendly menu. Other restaurants should take note of how well-organized all the items are presented. Sections on the dinner menu are separated by protein, and small (and handy) symbols denote whether you’re searching the veggie, meat or fish list. Offerings are further split between Small and Large, making it easy for parties of all sizes to make their selections – of which there are many. 

Fried Chicken

This impressive presentation extends to the actual dishes, which are sure to blow up your Instagram feed. Vegetable-forward selections like the Mushroom “bistek” (aka steak) and Filipino Spaghetti taste as good as they look, too, and oftentimes you’ll find yourself forgetting you’re not eating meat. Like we mentioned earlier, the dishes are fun as well – the spaghetti is reminiscent of the popular sweet spaghetti from Filipino fast-food joint Jollibee (except much better, obviously). If you haven’t had it before, the roasted banana-tomato sauce will make a favorable lasting impression.

Fish and meat options are just as memorable, with the kinilaw – the Filipino version of ceviche – and Key West pink shrimp being favorites in the former category: You’re enjoying super-fresh seafood complemented by flavorful elements that bring the dishes full circle. It’s a party in your mouth, and we never want it to end. On a related note: We are not fans of the sea-urchin. We see it on a menu, and we immediately think, “Nope.” But Pao’s sea urchin – dubbed the Unicorn — was different. Despite a scary, spiky presentation, the Unicorn with its grilled sweet corn pudding actually won us over. Iffy about sea urchin? Give this one a try; it might convert you as it did us.

Smoked Shortrib Asado
Smoked Shortrib Asado

If meat is more your thing, then do yourself a favor and order the fried chicken. Roasted banana ketchup and sweet chili sauce turn this dish into a force to be reckoned with. At under $20, it’s a bargain and should be a part of any Pao experience. Guests not concerned about budgets should turn their sights onto the Smoked Short Rib Asado, a 72-hour Wagyu beef accompanied by Japanese sweet potato puree. It sounds simple on paper, but your taste buds will say otherwise. Prepare to be wowed.

After such a satisfying meal, you may feel like skipping dessert. We implore you to reconsider. The pastries are unlike anything you’ve likely had in Miami. Calling them creative is an understatement: Pao’s takes on a Rice Crispy Bar, Ice Cream Sandwich and Panna Cotta need to be seen — and eaten. Another highlight: the Chai Tea Rock, which is exactly what it sounds like. There is no wrong choice here.

And that’s the beauty of Pao’s menu: It’s full of delicious choices that will keep you coming back for more.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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7:37 pm
Restaurant Features
0

Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

When the craving for something healthy and delicious strikes, look no further than The Strand. Located inside the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, The Strand certainly puts wellness at the forefront of the menu. The Mediterranean-inspired selections fill you up without filling you out, all while serving up fantastic flavors. Healthy food doesn’t have to be dull – The Strand proves it.

Spaghetti Parmigiano
Spaghetti Parmigiano

Chef Simon Apollonio and his team have put together a diverse list of items for guests to enjoy, but you’ll notice Italian influences stand out the most. Starters like the Super-fresh Burrata or the mouthwatering Mussels whet the palate beautifully for the meal to come. Pizzas such as the Truffle Bechamel or the Prosciutto taste decadent, but they’re also surprisingly light. You’re just full enough when you’re done; there’s no need to hit the gym afterward.

Where the menu truly shines is its pasta, of which there are many. Gnocchi, Linguine, and Ravioli are all favorites that make an appearance on this menu, but the Spaghetti Parmigiano is a must – especially for the experience. At $38, it’s easily among the more expensive of the selections, but it’s well worth the premium. Having the staff come up to your table and serve it out of a cheese wheel makes for a fun Instagram moment. Plus, it’s really tasty – what’s not to love about Cheesy Pasta?

Patrons who don’t want to overdo it with carbs also have plenty of options to choose from. The Faroe Salmon with Cauliflower, Asparagus, and Parsnip Puree is a colorful, fragrant dish that will have you salivating the second it hits your table. It’s a big portion of fish, and our leftovers made for a great lunch the day after. Just as satisfying is the Lamb Chops Entrée, whose Couscous Lentils, Cucumber Gremolata and Tzatziki sauce pair beautifully with the generous portions of protein.  

Faroe Salmon
Faroe Salmon

If you’re part of a large party, consider ordering the Bistecca Alla Florentina. At $199, it’s not cheap but it can feed a family easily. Expect more than 2 pounds of wagyu beef porterhouse carved tableside with roasted potatoes and arugula salad. It’s a feast for the senses. Should you have room for dessert – unlikely but still possible – there’s a range of treats to be had. Lighter options include ice cream and sorbet, but diners who aren’t counting calories should check out the tiramisu or carrot cake. Everything is big enough to share, so one dessert for two people is ideal.

The Strand offers a menu with your well-being in mind, and it shows. The restaurant takes pride in its carefully crafted selections that are both satisfying and healthy(ish). But whether you’re counting calories or not, you’re in good hands.

Lamb Chops
Lamb Chops

Located inside the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, The Strand offers a delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu with your well-being in mind. Carefully crafted selections highlight local ingredients and fresh flavors that satisfy the most discerning of diners. Burrata, Truffle Bechamel Pizza, and Spaghetti Parmigiano are just a few of the enticing dinner selections inspired by Chef Simon Apollonio’s Italian roots.

Guests will also find a wide array of exquisite meat and seafood options, including Faroe salmon with cauliflower, asparagus and parsnip puree as well as lamb chops with couscous lentils, cucumber gremolata, and tzatziki sauce. A $199 Bistecca Alla Florentina – 2.2 pounds of Florida Jackman wagyu beef porterhouse – is a conversation starter and ensures larger parties leave awestruck and full. Indoor seating is ample, but outdoor seating is a must if the weather is cooperating; scenic ocean views are the ultimate backdrop for your meal, whether you visit for dinner or for breakfast, lunch or brunch. And no matter when you visit, you’re in good hands.  

6801 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 514 7474

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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