Summer cocktails at Lido Grill

1: Fresh Philosophies at Lido Restaurant & Bayside Grill The Standard Spa, Miami Beach

2: Croquettish at the Conrad 

3: Indulge Your Indecision Sardinia
You want the economy and fuller experience of a bottle of wine, but you’re wary of committing to a single varietal. There are so many wines to choose from, so many flavors to experience! Enter the quartino. Constituting a third of a bottle and taking the shape of a curvaceous carafe, the quartino is the ultimate solution for those who waffle over wines. Of course, Sardinia Enoteca offers their bianchi and rossi by the glass and bottle, too. To sweeten the deal, Sardinia is offering 40-percent off a selected wine every Tuesday. With other deals on the docket—like weekday happy hour from 5-7pm and bottomless mimosas on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 6pm—there’s no excuse not to indulge. {sardinia-ristorante.com; 305.531.2228}

4: The Personality of R House: Rocco Carulli
Rocco Carulli has quickly become one of our favorite things on the food scene in Miami. With his warm, infectious smile, and steadfast approach to his beloved R House, Rocco is there every night to meet and mingle with guests and oversee his staff. Rocco grew up in an Italian family, surrounded by a love of food. He studied at The Culinary School of America, and before he knew it, he owned his first restaurant in Provincetown before bringing his magic to Miami. Rocco had been working for the Goldmans, prominent real-estate and restaurant tycoons, during his winters off from P-Town when he was introduced to Wynwood, where he made R House a home. Rocco is a star personality and a star chef, and has made it his mission to guarantee that everything coming out of his kitchen puts a smile on your face—including the chef himself. {rhousewynwood.com; 305.576.0201}

5: A Trip to Italy via Graspa Group
If you’ve been to Italy, no doubt you bemoan the fact that you can’t find panini or tiramisù half as good in the States, while those who’ve yet to go yearn to experience the Mecca of good food and wine firsthand. Thanks to the Graspa Group, you can voyage to Italy and back for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We have a soft spot for the original Graspa concept: TiramesU, opened in 1988. This year, it’s relocating from Lincoln Road to its original post on South Fifth, slated to reopen in the fall. We can’t wait to behold the new space and dig our spoons into a serving of the dreamy namesake for the restaurant. In the meantime, luxuriate in …

• A cup of Italian roast—Segafredo Zanetti, the leading brand in Italy—and a pastry, or a truly authentic Italian aperitivo with captivating cocktails everyday from 5-7pm at Segafredo l’originale
• A casual revelry in thin crust pizza at Spris
• An intimate spot where you can also procure specialty meats and Italian products at Salumeria 104
• A taste of Italy at your next event via Spuntino Catering
  {graspagroup.com} 

6: Ropa Vieja Empanadas at Wynwood Kitchen and Bar
Wynwood Kitchen and Bar is all about small snacks you pop in your mouth while socializing, but if you start with the Ropa Vieja Empanadas, you may just put the menu down.  Crisped up perfectly, and stuffed with marinated ropa vieja and cilantro crema, these classic Latin treats are near perfection. wynwoodkitchenandbar.com

7: Tony Chan’s Overflowing Dim Sum
Translating to “heart’s delight” in Cantonese, dim sum entails a mélange of

Dim sum at Tony Chan’s

small dishes—sort of like the Chinese version of tapas. You’ll have to become a regular at Tony Chan’s Water Club to say you’ve fully exhausted all of the dim sum possibilities on their menu. A staggering 53 possibilities await—all served daily and cooked fresh to order—from Jade Duck Dumplings and Pork Buns, to Rice Congee with fish, to Black Pepper Short Rib. You can partake in all this deliciousness in a more modern and elegant atmosphere than ever before thanks to a recent remodel. Think tile floors, a new bar, and breathtaking wall coverings. {tonychansmiami.com; 305.374.8888}

8: Cooking with Cindy
If you can’t get enough of Miami’s delectable Ortanique, then spend some time with celeb Chef Cindy Hutson on Saturdays once a month and learn all about the “Cuisine of the Sun.” Get your hands dirty with meal preparation

Chef Cindy Hutson

and watch as your masterpieces are cooked and plated in front of you. What’s on the menu? Here’s a taste: Grilled Vanilla Bean Gelato, Balsamic-Marinated Cab Skirt Steak, and Captain Crunch Bread Pudding. Classes are limited to 24 people, so call the restaurant to reserve a spot. {cindyhutsoncuisine.com}

9: Events We Love: Miami Spice, March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, and the South Beach Wine Festival 

10: Women in Charge: Liza Meli, Barmeli
The restaurant business is far from easy for anyone, so it is particularly impressive when women oversee everything from the books to the cooks. Liza Meli opened her very first café in Mallorca, Spain in 1993 before moving to Miami and opening the first-ever Ouzo’s Greek in 2002. Since then, Meli has single-handedly opened three other successful restaurants, all with her signature fresh Mediterranean fare, and all with an inviting, timeless neighborhood appeal. Now you can catch Liza any night of the week running the show at her Upper Eastside Barmeli Tapas and Wine Bar. {barmeli.com; 305.754.5558}

11: Larios Turns the Beat Around with New Renovations and Menu
Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s internationally acclaimed restaurant, Larios on the Beach, reopened with a newly designed interior and menu. The ambience aims to create the sensation of Miami Beach indoors with seashells adorning the walls and floors. Guests will be delighted to find signature favorites like the award-winning Léchon (roasted pork), Vaca Frita, and world-famous Mojitos on the menu. A new feature is the Triple C, or “Calorie Conscious Cuban,” a selection of delicious, guilt-free Cuban staples created by Gloria herself. Items include grilled grouper, vegetarian black beans, baked plantain chips, and whole grain, gluten-free brown rice. “Taste our tried-and-true Cuban cuisine, right out of Abuelita’s kitchen, and indulge your taste buds with our surprising new culinary sensations,” says Gloria Estefan. Come and soak up the Cuban culinary magic at the new Larios on the Beach. {lariosonthebeach.com; 305.532.9577}

12: Family-Owned Businesses Making History
Garcia’s on the River really began in 1966 as a fish market before it evolved into the restaurant it is today. Mr. Garcia started his wholesale business by buying a vacant lot that had gas pumps for boating. The property operated as a gas station, but Garcia used it as storage for the wholesale market. In the ’70s it became a restaurant, and so it has been here over 49 years—the pioneer of the Miami River, now a trendy dining destination. Luis Garcia, his brother, and mother have been running one of Miami’s favorite spots for fresh seafood on the water for over 20 years, making it one of the best catches on the coast. {garciasmiami.com; 305.448.2400}

13: Heath Porter, Head Wine-O at Uvaggio
Nicknamed “Rebel Sommelier,” Heath Porter takes the snob appeal out of vinology and puts his own whimsical and knowledgeable spin on what is a true passion for wine. With a self-deprecating sense of humor, Porter points out that he grew up in a teetotaling Southern Baptist family in Cullman, Alabama, deep in the heart of Dixie. “Rednecks don’t usually grow up to become sommeliers,” he says, “especially ones from dry countries.” That said, he has garnered several awards, medals, and pins throughout his career, and has now brought his expertise to Uvaggio Wine Bar in Coral Gables. His worldly wine list is not only impressive, but in-line with Heath’s no-nonsense personality. Would you like something sleek and firm, or plus-sized and full-bodied? {uvaggiowine.com; 305.448.2400}

14: Cibo Wine Bar
Which celebrity have you enjoyed cooking for the most?
Executive Chef Massimo Giannattasio: Having cooked for a number of high-profile clients over the course of my career, I would have to say that the most memorable experiences came from working closely with Robert Di Niro. As the executive chef of his restaurant (Ago), I had the opportunity to work with him to create a menu to suit his tastes. {cibowinebar.com; 305.442.4925}

15: Whole Grilled Hogfish at Fish Fish
Good things don’t always come easy, which is why the rich, flaky flesh of a crispy whole hogfish might be one of our favorite things on the menu right now. Hogfish is rarer on Miami menus than other subtropical fish. One reason: It is mainly caught with a spear, which is sporty to some, a little labor-intensive to others. On clear days, divers spear Lachnolaimus maximus off the coral reefs. But when the winds pick up, spearing becomes impossible, making these tasty little creatures attractively hard-to-get. When available, try this delicacy at Fish Fish, where it’s perfectly scored and seasoned, fried to a delicate crisp, and served like it’s still swimming. {fishfishmiami.com; 786.732.3124}

16: Celebrate the Good Life, Cipriani-Style
Miami’s newest event venue, The Cipriani Bar, is a premier private dining space offering unbeatable views of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. Its floor-to-ceiling, wrap-around doors open onto a Grand Terrace, which boasts spectacular waterfront views. The expansive interior space features a crisp, nautical aesthetic accommodating up to 200 guests. The Cipriani Bar is an ideal choice for any special occasion. Whether planning a corporate event, social or nonprofit reception, a sit-down dinner, or an intimate art exhibit, guests will delight in the relaxing atmosphere, impeccable service, and world-renowned Cipriani cuisine. {cipriani.com; 786.329.4090}

17: Lamb Belly at Fez
Fez is located on historic Española Way and is the perfect escape for an exotic dining experience. All of the dishes here reflect the cuisine of Casablanca, Morocco where Executive Chef Faycal Bettioui is from. Yet one dish has become a local favorite and definitely one not to miss: the luscious Lamb Belly with celery root purée, onion jam, and pomegranate glaze. {fezmiami.com; 305.672.4469}

18: Andrea Chiriatti of Big Fish
Born in Ortanto (Lecce, Italy), Chiriatti brings an authentic Italian appeal to Big Fish on the River in Miami. With traditional Italian training in Florence and Milan, loads of experience, and a focus on raw and vegetarian food, Andrea is a master of Mediterranean cuisine. He honed his innovative techniques while working at Milan’s Armani Restaurant, Teatro 7, before bringing his European grace and professionalism to the kitchen at Big Fish. What a catch! {thebigfishrestaurant.com}

19: Hotel Dining Destinations

20: Ordering from the Yacht at Seasalt and Pepper
With 250 feet of dock space, Seasalt and Pepper brings a new meaning to waterfront dining. Just pull up alongside the restaurant in your home at sea, and for a small fee ($1 per foot per hour), you can order your lobster thermidor in the comfort of your own yacht. An all-day party on weekends, this is a boater’s paradise, with endless bottles of rosé flowing, and world-class cuisine marching out of the kitchen, bringing a whole new sense of swagger to the Miami River. {seasaltandpepper.com; 305.440.4200}

21: Stunning Downtown Views at Tuyo
There aren’t too many rooftop restaurants in Miami, making Tuyo a real jewel in downtown dining. From the moment you enter the dining room, which floats atop the Culinary Institute, you are swept away by breathtaking views of sparkling buildings and bridges, and, of course, glistening Miami waterways. {tuyomiami.com}

22: The Wine Shop in the Bistro at WD555
WD555 stands on its own as a lovely Mediterranean restaurant, housed in a fresh warehouse space with a lovely outdoor garden. Throw in a wine boutique with 300-plus labels from all over the world and a mere $7.50 to crack one open (or $15 for the vintage room), and you have something very special. WD555 is the largest retailer in South Beach and the prices are just as desirable as the modest corkage fees. Highlights include coveted bottles of rosé, Champagne, and Grand Cru, so grab a bottle or two and ask your server to pour you a glass to complement a perfect plate of Foie Gras “au Torchon.” {wd555usa.com}

23: Executive Chef Erwin Mallet of Villa Azur
At the age of 12, Chef Mallet began his career at Jean Monnet High School, focusing on hospitality and catering. He maximized his talent by working in the kitchen of some of France’s top restaurants, including Pastis, Tantra, Guerite, and Maccheroni. His food is the perfect marriage of old and new techniques, and he masters every dish he meets. The Pork Tenderloin, slow-braised in red wine and orange zest, and Truffle French Ravioli add home-style comfort to his menu at Villa Azur. {villaazurmiami.com}

24: Altamare’s New Look, New Happy Hour
It’s the summer of AltaMare Restaurant. This fresh seafood landmark recently updated the interior décor with nautical rope accents, hand-painted lamps and chairs, and a wall made of reclaimed wood from a local dock. A new, original painting (commissioned by Carolina Sanllehi) now takes residence in AltaMare, depicting a colorful sense of motion influenced by the high ocean tides for which the restaurant is named. In addition to the new look, guests can now enjoy the Summer of AltaMare Happy Hour, celebrating the finest seafood, warm service, and a selection of casual cocktails perfect for unwinding after a hot day. Enjoy a glass of bubbly Prosecco or a house cocktail while noshing fresh-from-the-sea eats, like half-price oysters, Whole Fried Snapper, or a bright Wahoo Crudo with avocado, olive oil, and preserved citrus fruit. {altamarerestaurant.com; 305.532.3061}

25: The Betsy Hotel
The Betsy Hotel is one of South Beach’s best-kept treasures. Many rave about its award-winning BLT Steak, voted Miami’s Best Steakhouse by Miami New Times, but few know of the hotel’s Tuesday and Wednesday jazz nights, where some of the country’s most renowned trios, duos, and quartets indulge guests in intimate performances within one of The Betsy’s many book-filled rooms. In fact, CNN recently named The Betsy as one of “14 Beautiful Hotels Inspired by Literature,” as evidenced by its Escribe Aqui series, where well-known authors gather for poetry and book readings. Count on The Betsy for a little bit of culture on an otherwise cluttered ocean drive. {thebetsyhotel.com; 305.531.6100}

26: Small Bites at Semilla
Having your own dish is indulgent, but sometimes you’d rather be social and share. Semilla offers a prime environment for sampling small bites with a menu catering to tapas-style dining. We love the Braised Short-Rib Potstickers with green curry sauce for dipping, as well as the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with nashi pear. {semillamiami.com; 305.674.6522}

27: Mo Bar + Lounge in the Mandarin Oriental
There’s nothing better than a bar with a view, and MO Bar + Lounge at the Mandarin Oriental is simply one-of-a-kind. Whether chatting up friends over French martinis or admiring Miami’s skyline while munching on small plates, it’s impossible not to feel the city’s energy radiating through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Thursday through Saturday, live bands take the stage, enticing you to stay for “just one more” as you listen to guitarists and Latin jazz trios. Come fall, MO Bar Unplugged returns, inviting high-profile Latin-American artists to host concerts within MO Bar’s warm, intimate setting. Go for the music, stay for the cocktails; there’s no wrong way to spend a night at MO Bar. {mandarinoriental.com/miami/fine-dining/mo-bar-and-lounge; 305.913.8288}

28: Chef Giovanni Arias of Canyon Ranch Hotel and Spa
Chef Arias of The Canyon Ranch Grill is considered a “flavor genius” by The Johnson and Wales Culinary Arts program. He melds Latin and Caribbean influences with French and Asian cooking techniques, creating a continuously evolving hotel dining menu of renowned health-conscious cuisine (try the Seared Scallops with mango-coconut glaze and micro-cilantro, or the Yucca crusted with black bean purée and Brazilian cabbage). “Chef Arias demonstrates a drive and passion to showcase healthy food to its fullest potential,” said Canyon Ranch Corporate Chef, Scott Uehlein. “His acute sense of layering flavors, as well as an understanding of what it takes to run a successful restaurant, are incredibly important assets to our team.” {canyonranch.com; 305.514.7474}

29: Grilled Octopus at Milos by Costas Spiliadis
Estiatorio Milo’s by Costas Spiliadis has a reputation for world-class seafood, fresh from the Mediterranean. There is something especially memorable about the simply grilled, sushi-grade octopus that keeps people swooning. It is so simple in preparation and appearance, yet every slightly charred, delicately seasoned, juicy bite of this mysterious leggy delicacy brings a mouthful of oceanic delight. {milos.ca/restaurants/miami; 305.604.6800}

30: Landry’s Family of Restaurants
We love the extraordinary dining options from Landry’s family of restaurants. Looking for succulent seafood? The Oceanaire Seafood Room features fresh seafood flown in daily. Or, indulge in juicy, USDA prime-aged steaks at Morton’s The Steakhouse. What’s more, Chart House is the perfect setting for enjoying magnificent views, fresh fish specialties, prime rib, and steaks—a scenic Coconut Grove jewel! Great service and quality food make these the perfect Miami dining destinations. Reserve your table today for an unparalleled dining experience. {mortons.com/miami;theoceanaire.com; chart-house.com/locations/miami}

31: Signature Rolls at Barezzito
Keeping the menu as fun and spicy as the venue itself, Barezzito serves up some of the best signature rolls in town, like the My Chick Roll, with crab salad, tempura flakes, spicy mayo, eel sauce, soybean paper, and honey on top. Another favorite is the Hottie Roll, with shrimp tempura, scallions, cream cheese, spicy mayo, jalapeños, Parmesan cheese, and eel sauce. {barezzitousa.com}

32: Orangetheory Fitness
Let’s face it: dining out in Miami means you need a serious workout regimen, and the way to get it in gear is Orangetheory. The idea of Orangetheory is simple: a 60-minute workout designed to push you into the Orange Zone. This creates “Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption,” or EPOC. It’s what burns calories after your workout and gives you noticeable, lasting results. Our favorite benefit? Free reign to eat what you please. {orangetheoryfitness.com; 305.232.7722}

33: Boundless Dining with the Pubbelly Group

34: Summer Libations

35: Oysters au David Bracha at The River Oyster Bar and Oak Tavern