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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

South Florida’s dining scene is no joke — each neighborhood here brims with incredible restaurants from across the culinary spectrum. Amazing Indian spots? Check. Sushi counters and izakayas that will transport you to Japan? Double-check. Latin cafes where the food could rival that of any abuelita? You got it. But every now and then, a few spots manage to rise above the competition with standout dishes we think should be on everyone’s radar. Read on for our picks this month.

Stubborn Seed’s Snickerdoodle Cookies

There’s no such thing as a bad meal at Stubborn Seed. Dishes here are as delicious as they are beautiful, and the hardest part about any visit is choosing between one tantalizing work of art and another (thank goodness for those tasting menus). But this month, we want to shine a light on the restaurant’s snickerdoodle cookies. Baked with brown butter, Valrhona Gianduja chocolate hazelnut, and cinnamon, each bite is literal heaven. 

101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 786-460-5962. 

Alloy Bistro’s Black Tagliatelle

In addition to being one of the most romantic spots for date night in the city, our beloved Downtown Miami gem Alloy Bistro wins this month for the most original entree: we’re obsessed with their black tagliatelle, made with activated charcoal dough, fresh aromatic herbs, organic mushrooms, soya sauce, and sesame oil. It’s completely vegan, too.

154 SE 1st Avenue, Miami; 786-773-2742. 

Los Fuegos’s Fish Parrillada

If you’re a seafood lover, you have to try Francis Mallman’s fish parrillada at Los Fuegos. It’ll set you back $160, but don’t worry, it’s well worth the splurge. This beauty comes heaped with branzino, locally caught lobster, snapper, tender octopus, sweet and domino potatoes, aioli, and criolla. 

3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 786-655-5600. 

Malibu Farm’s Winter Burrata

Malibu Farm recently introduced a winter menu filled with delicious locally-sourced goodness. One of the best things on it is the winter burrata, served with roasted candy beets, tart pomegranate, green beans, roasted pine nuts, and sweet maple balsamic. Order it as a starter, or share it with your friends while sipping some of Malibu Farm’s signature cocktails. 

4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786-801-6886.

Bird & Bone’s Hales’ Hot Chicken

If you’re craving some hits-the-spot southern cooking, head to Bird & Bone. Their cheddar and chive biscuits are legendary, but this month we’ve set our sights on their Hales’ Hot Chicken. Served with Miami honey, house mustard, cucumber pickle, and thick country bread, it was named Best Fried Chicken in Miami. ‘Nuff said. 

4041 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 305-424-1234. 

By Amanda Mesa, Contributing Writer

Setai Unplugged presented by The Macallan at The Setai

The Setai Unplugged Creative

Saturday nights at the world-famous courtyard at The Setai on Miami Beach are now elevated even higher with the brand-new dining experience presented by The Macallan. During Setai Unplugged, diners can enjoy an artfully curated “Essences of Oak” Pan-Asian dinner menu paired with bespoke cocktails, meaning the distinguished flavor profile of The Macallan Rare Cask is infused through the entire four-course meal. This elegant experience is further amplified by live musical performances and sounds from The Setai’s resident DJ. Sunday-Thursday, 6-10 pm; Friday-Saturday, 6-11 pm.
thesetaihotels.com


Apertivo at Prima Classe Wednesday Evenings

An authentic Italian market and cafe located in the South of Fifth neighborhood, Prima Classe is living up to its name by offering “first-class” imported Italian goods and a weekly Apertivo. Connecting friends and neighbors in a cozy environment with a fixed-price flow of wine and replenished spread of savory snacks and small plates every Wednesday from 6-9 pm, Prima Classe delivers the perfect environment for unwinding. Following Apertivo or any other day of the week, take to the market to bring home a variety of specialty sauces, oils, pasta, and much more. Founded in 2017 by Paolo Orsolini, Prima Classe showcases quality Italian imports that you can take home for later or enjoy right there at the cafe.
primaclasse.com


Musimelange (January 27-April 6, 2020)

Musimelange

French violinist Anne Chicheportiche’s inspiration for founding Musimelange—a multi-sensory concert experience in its Ninth Season at the Design District’s M Building—comes from her French roots. Musimelange pairs chamber music with gastronomy and wine tasting in order to recreate the tradition of France’s Belle Epoque, when public figures, artists, writers, and musicians met and gathered in hopes of inspiring ideas and creativity. Each month features a new restaurant providing luscious bites and a musical performer to serenade guests. The dates for the 2020 season are Jan. 27, Feb. 17, March 9, and April 6. Concerts begin at 7:30 pm and tickets are $55 online and $65 at the door.
musimelange.com


Party with a Purpose (February 1, 2020)

Party with a Purpose

While the attention will be on the field in 2020 when Miami hosts the Super Bowl, don’t miss out on all events happening around South Florida. Take the star-studded Party with a Purpose, for instance, taking place Feb. 1 at the Broward County Convention Center. Chef Andrew Zimmern, Chef Adam Richman, and legendary former Miami Dolphins head coach Don Shula will all be hosting Taste of the NFL. Proceeds from this exceptional culinary event go toward food banks and hunger-related nonprofit organizations; to date, more than $26 million has been raised.
tasteofthenfl.com


Doral Food and Wine Festival (March 21-22, 2020)

Doral Food and Wine Festival

Back for its fourth year, the Doral Food and Wine Festival continues to grow. The two-day event, March 21-22, 2020 at Doral Central Park, is expected to once again bring in thousands of attendees. The springtime festival will feature more than 30 restaurants from Doral and around South Florida, providing bite-size samples and small plates of every eatery’s best dish, along with a Beer Garden and spirits booth. And, don’t miss the culinary and mixology demonstrations as well as musical entertainment and a fun Kids’ Zone. The Doral Food and Wine Festival, with its multifaceted entertainment and delight, support a great cause, as $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

doralfoodandwinefestival.com

By DiningOut Staff

Tres Leches Cake from R House
Serves 12

Ingredients

Cake
– 5 eggs
– 1 c sugar
– 2 c all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 Tbsp baking powder
– 5 Tbsp water
– 5 Tbsp oil
– 1 Tbsp vanilla extract

Milk Mixture
– 1 can sweeten condensed milk (14 oz)
– 32 oz heavy cream
– 2 cans evaporated milk (12 oz)

Method
In a bowl, whip eggs with sugar until soft, pale, and foamy. In another bowl, mix flour with baking powder and salt. In a third bowl, combine water, oil, and vanilla extract. In a large mixing bowl, combine all three bowls and mix well to form a batter. Pour batter into cake pans sprayed with Baker’s Joy. Bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes. When done, and while still warm, cut off the tops of the cakes. To make the milk mixture, combine condensed milk, heavy cream, and evaporated milk. Place cakes loose in open tray, and pour milk mixture over them, adding more as the milk becomes absorbed. Spoon milk mixture over top of cakes to aid absorption. Serve with caramel praline sauce and garnish with whipped cream and a mint leaf.

Returning once again for its 19th year, The Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) hosts a nationally-renowned, five-day destination event featuring the talents of the world’s most celebrated chefs, culinary personalities and wine and spirits producers. The star-studded Festival will run February 19-23, 2020 and is composed of an unprecedented lineup of more than 100 events spanning Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. With a variety of new offerings and the return of the Festival’s iconic white tents nestled on the sands of Miami Beach, this year’s edition boasts the most robust event roster yet. To date, the Festival has raised more than $30 million in support of its mission to EAT. DRINK. EDUCATE., benefiting the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU).

Buddy & Lisa Valastro & guests at Family Ice Cream Social hosted by Cake Boss Buddy Valastro – 2019 Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival at Loews Miami Beach Hotel on February 24, 2019 in Miami Beach, Florida -PHOTO by: Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye.com

Prior to becoming one of the best-known culinary festivals in the U.S., the Festival originated from humble beginnings. From the initial, modest showcasing of both national and international wineries alongside Miami’s local restaurant and chef creations, and in collaboration with students from the Chaplin School, the now-extravaganza made exponential growth. Not without the vision and ambition of Founder and Director Lee Brian Schrager, though; it was his idea to relocate the Festival to South Beach and thus breathe into it new life.

The renamed South Beach Wine & Food Festival® was then held in March of 2002 and attracted close to 7,000 guests, providing a series of dinners, seminars, a Grand Tasting Village, the debut of the BubbleQ®, and a live auction—all in its first year. Now, the Festival attracts more than 65,000 guests annually to its 100+ events throughout the five-day event, which takes place at various locations throughout South Florida.

For foodies wondering where to start, we suggest kicking off your Festival lineup with signature fan-favorites such as the Heineken Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray, or Fontainebleau Miami Beach presents Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best, which features 60 of the nation’s top chefs and over 100 wines rated 90 points or higher on Wine Spectator’s scale. This year’s festival will also see the return of the popular CRAVE Greater Fort Lauderdale Series, a variety of curated experiences designed to showcase some of the best of Broward County. This includes the addition of the family-friendly Foodie Movie Night in the Park event, taking place both Saturday and Sunday of the Festival weekend in the City of Hallandale Beach. This diverse weekend of culinary and beverage celebration will also contain a slew of musical performances including American Idol winner Laine Hardy, the Nu Deco Ensemble with a special guest performance by GRAMMY Award-winner Rev Run, as well as the return of the wildly popular David Grutman Experience at the Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village.

The 19th annual Festival lineup also offers a variety of new events for $100 or less, including the Chef Mash-Up hosted by The Naughty Fork; Sip & Dips hosted by Adam Richman; Croquetas & Cocktails hosted by Eileen & Jonathan Andrade; and Miami Design District presents Sliced: A Genuine Pizza Party hosted by Michael Schwartz. Fans will, of course, have their pick from the exclusive selection of masterclasses, intimate dinners, and walk-around tastings with some of the world’s most talented chefs and lifestyle personalities.

This year’s Tribute Dinner, presented by Capital One®, will be part of The NYT Cooking Dinner Series with Andrew Zimmern and Melba Wilson serving as the Masters of Ceremonies. Zimmern and Wilson will oversee an evening paying homage to the outstanding accomplishments of the culinary community’s beloved Chef Marcus Samuelsson and beverage industry’s revered leader, Jim Clerkin. Samuelsson is a highly acclaimed chef and international restaurateur with over 30 restaurant locations across the world. Clerkin currently serves as president and CEO of Moët Hennessy North America and will transition to a new role as president of Moët Hennessy’s strategic development. Tickets are now on sale for SOBEWFF® 2020 can be found online, sobewff.org

By DiningOut Staff

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

Miami Beach seafood spot impresses on all fronts

Seawell Fish N’ Oyster is a restaurant we’ve been eagerly anticipating for a while now. Chef Julian Garriga and his crew had been teasing the restaurant’s food at its sister bar Minnow up until its opening – and now it’s here. The verdict? Well worth the wait.

Here are five reasons you need to check out Seawell Fish N’ Oyster ASAP:

Incredible Value

Monkey Bread - Seawell Fish n' Oyster
Monkey Bread

The majority of starters and entrees won’t break the bank; prices typically fall into the ‘teens and twenties’ price range. And they’re big portions: Items like the smoked fish dip come with tons of saltines, the crabby patty aka crab cake is sizable, and the everything monkey bread can feed an entire table (and it’s just $7). Finding something this good and reasonably priced is rare on the beach. 


Quality Seafood 

 Peel n' Eat Shrimp - Seawell Fish n' Oyster
Peel n’ Eat Shrimp

As you’d expect from the name, Seawell Fish N’ Oyster focuses on … well, fish and oysters. A daily menu highlights the restaurant’s fresh catches like black grouper, branzino, and Caribbean snapper – to name a few. This ever-changing menu ensures that diners always have something new to look forward to during every visit.

Lobster Roll from Seawell
Lobster Roll

On the permanent menu, guests can enjoy highlights like peel n’ eat shrimp with clarified butter and Old Bay as well as a hearty lobster roll with kewpie mayo. The former, in particular, was one of our favorite dishes of the night. On its own with just Old Bay seasoning, the shrimp was spectacular. But dipping it in the warm butter took the dish to the next level – and had us raving about it for hours. On that note …


Fun Sauces 

In our opinion, sauces don’t get enough credit. They can elevate a ho-hum dish or take an already spectacular item even further. At Seawell, the latter is the case. Chef Garriga and his team pair their food with sauces that will make your taste buds dance.

That everything monkey bread we mentioned earlier? It’s made even better with the addition of whipped dill butter. Our already amazing black grouper? Paired with a citrus tarragon butter, it blew our minds. And the Serrano Leche de Tigre that came with our yellowtail snapper Crudo didn’t disappoint either. 


Varied Options

You don’t have to be a seafood fan to enjoy Seawell. Yes, the menu is predominantly seafood, but the non-fish options are just as tasty. A hefty poutine with ‘nduja gravy, fried chicken with tabasco honey, and a 16-ounce ribeye showcase the kitchen’s versatility and talent.

You can tell the staff put their heart into everything, from the starters and entrees all the way to the side dishes; veggies like charred broccoli, roasted butternut squash mushrooms shine with elements like Calabrian chili pesto, cacio e pepe butter and caper raisin vinaigrette (again with the sauces). 


Crafty Cocktails

Crazy Cocktails of Seawell
Cocktails from Seawell Fish N’ Oyster

No meal is complete without something to drink, and the restaurant has put together a short-yet-impressive libation list. Guests seeking something sweet can refresh themselves with the Angel of the Morning (vodka, St. Germain, strawberry, lemon) or Tavern Spritz (lillet blanc, white port, aperol, bubbles), while the whiskey-based Sea Wolf and Billy Budd take care of the other end of the flavor spectrum.

Open for breakfast, dinner, and brunch, there’s never a bad time to visit Seawell. What are you waiting for? Go make a reservation.


Seawell Fish N’ Oyster on South Beach is putting innovative twists on classic seafood dishes. Chef Julian Garriga and his team have developed a playful yet familiar menu full of favorites at this Kimpton Angler’s Hotel eatery. Begin your experience with everything monkey bread and a rotating selection of oysters before diving into daily catches, fish, and chips, peel n’ eat shrimp and other delightful selections.

Crabby Patty from Seawell
Crabby Patty

Non-fish options like the Seawell Burger – a cheddar, caramelized onions, and Marie Rose sauce creation – and fried chicken with tabasco honey ensure all palates feel welcome; you don’t need to be a seafood fan to leave impressed. Decadent desserts, including whoopie pie Alaska and croissant bread pudding, provide a satisfying finish to any meal.

Rounding out the offerings is an equally impressive list of libations that runs the gamut from light and refreshing to stiff and spirit-forward. Open for lunch, dinner, and brunch, there’s never a bad time to visit Seawell.

660 Washington Avenue,
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 594-5820

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

Impressive from start to finish

There’s only one word to describe an experience at Stubborn Seed: magical. The restaurant, which has fed the South of Fifth masses for over two years now, is helmed by Top Chef season 13 winner Jeremy Ford. Ford, who has worked under culinary greats like Jean-Georges Vongerichten, is cooking up delicious cuisine that shows why he’s one of the most esteemed chefs in the scene. 

Dinner at the 70ish-seat restaurant is intimate — you’re likely to encounter plenty of couples during your visit, along with a few larger parties. All are welcome, though, as Ford and his team make dishes that are equally innovative and approachable; everyone from food critics to curious diners should leave happy.

Scallops

At Stubborn Seed, guests have the option of ordering a la carte or choosing from two tasting menus (five courses or eight courses) that promise surprises. That said, we opted to “choose our adventure” with a few — very tasty — recommendations from our helpful server. 

Speaking of service, the staff does not miss a beat; water glasses were constantly refilled before getting too low, and someone was always touching our table and the tables around us; in a city where service can be lacking, that’s a welcome sight.

But back to the food: yowza. Diners were treated to a complimentary round of pumpkin soup, croquettes and oysters to start the meal, plus bread service that included a flavorful garbanzo chili dip. Then the real fun began with items like kombu-charred octopus and warm celery root, two dishes that should be a staple of any meal here. 

The former with its guajillo chili and garlic puree is punchy, making for a memorably yummy bite each time. Meanwhile, the celery root’s presentation will have you salivating before the first bite. Surrounded by crackling maitake mushroom and a creamy mustard, it’s a beauty — and one that tastes as good (if not better) than it looks. 

Also, we need to talk about the lavash. At $8, it’s easily the lowest-priced snack on the menu. Don’t let the price fool you: It’s the restaurant’s sleeper hit. Chicken liver butter and smoked chili jam is really all there is to this flatbread, and that’s all it needs; the amount of flavor packed into this bite is insane. With a price like that, you’d be foolish not to order it. 

Espresso Panna Cotta

Larger plates also dazzle. A juicy Bell & Evans chicken with pomme puree is filling and hits the spot — this is chicken done right. Slow cooked beef cheek with white truffle grits is another highlight that commands its premium; the richness and depth of flavor is unlike anything we’ve encountered. 

Ensuring your meal ends on a sweet note is pastry chef Dallas Wynne’s assortment of treats. If it’s your first time here, order the famous snickerdoodle cookies. They may not sound as exciting as other offerings, but you’ll be singing a different tune fast once you taste the valrhona gianduja. Seasonal delights like honey baked pears and espresso panna cotta help us forget that seasons don’t exist in Miami, and we’re grateful to Wynne for the escape.

All in all, Jeremy Ford and his team have crafted a stellar dining experience from start to finish. The service is impeccable, the food is exceptional (and Instagrammable), and the place is intimate — you feel like part of something special when you’re there. Few restaurants leave you not only feeling satisfied with your meal, but also feeling good. Stubborn Seed is one of them.

101 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 322-5211

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr., a contributing writer

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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