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raw bar

1. Old Favorite, New Look at the River Seafood & Oyster Bar

Crispy Diablo Squid

2. Crispy Diablo Squid from Morton’s the Steakhouse

PM Fish & Steak House

3. Rotating Art at R House
R House brings art to Wynwood in the form of a restaurant. In fact, some even consider the entire setting an art installation. A large-scale mural greets guests outside, and movable pieces give the feel of an art gallery. R House is always full of fashionable and eccentric guests who come

to view the rotating art by local artists, and the floor plan is often adjusted to give guests a different dynamic each time they visit. The result is a fresh, engaging fine-dining experience every time. 305.576.0201; rhousewynwood.com 

4. The Chef’s Choice at Naoe
If art were food, NAOE would be a museum with Chef Kevin Cory as its sole artist. The room is sparse, like a blank canvas, and soft music plays in the background as Cory creates his masterpieces. The menu is completely original each evening with several courses of the chef’s choosing, and he presents each edible gem one-by-one in a succession fit for an emperor. Two seatings occur each evening and three hours are set aside for this sensory indulgence. Bring your sense of adventure because, as they say, the food here is not just fresh—it’s alive. 305.947.6263; naoemiami.com 

Quality Meats

5. Classic Meets Contemporary Quality Meats

6. The Personal Edge at Fung Ku/Maxine’s/The Tavern
The South Beach Hotel Group owns some of Miami’s funkiest boutique hotels, and they come alive each season witht he official kickoff of Art BAsel. Each property is unique, offering eclectic, hand-picked décor from across the globe. Inspired by Moroccan design, Maxine’s at the Catalina Hotel  boasts chairs from Egypt as well as lamps found in Morocco by Owner Alan Lieberman during his travels there. The teak tables at Fung Ku were all sliced, treated, and glazed by Lieberman himself. The newest addition to the collection is The Tavern at Hotel Croydon, which displays murals by Marcello Ibanez, whom Lieberman discovered on Instagram. It’s the personal attention to detail that gives Fung Ku, Maxine’s, and The Tavern their edge. 305.535.8284; southbeachgroup.com

7. Wasabi Lobster at SOHO Bay
Art is on the menu at SOHO Bay. Japanese delicacies delight at this swanky South Beach restaurant, appearing almost too good to eat. The Wasabi Lobster—with wasabi and lime ice cream, mustard cress, citrus-coriander blooms, and fresh wasabi—is a new favorite. 786.618.2788; sohobayrestaurant.com

Uvaggio

8. The Art of Food and Wine Pairing at Uvaggio
You don’t have to look far to find advice about food and wine pairing; there are countless articles and books dispensing the rules and science behind making a good match. Still, some would argue that there’s more art than science involved. The approach at Uvaggio is simple: “If it grows together, it goes together.” In other words, wine and food both have a sense of place, and their origins contribute to their nuanced flavors. For example, food made with ingredients from Tuscany will likely pair well with Tuscan wines. Practice the art at Uvaggio. 305.448.2400; uvaggiowine.com 

9. (Art and) Wine by the Bay
Stefano Campanini started his career as an art dealer many years ago in NYC before opening Etra Gallery in Miami, which he still runs. While he was delivering art pieces to VIP collectors, Campanini noticed that many of them also collected wine. This got him thinking about the synergy of his two passions, and thus, Wine by the Bay was born. Not only does Wine by the Bay serve as a cultural hub, displaying fine art and hosting lectures and tastings, it demonstrates the symbiotic relationship of art and wine. The grape harvest is a blank canvas, and only time will tell what beauty and depth will become of it. 305.455.9791; winebtb.com 

10. Sunsets at The Standard
The Standard has become a staple in South Beach for lazy Sunday afternoons, but the main draw here is the sublime sunset view that paints the sky each evening. The property sits right on the bay, offering the perfect backdrop for nature to paint her colors on the sparkling water. 305.673.1717; standardhotels.com/miami

bagatelle miami

11. The Visual Appeal of Bagatelle
Designed by Celano BAGATELLE Design, Bagatelle Miami Beach is a collection of wondrous sights in keeping with the recognizable design of its sister locations. Inside, you’ll find beige and white furnishings accented with decorative moldings, plush banquettes, numerous crystal chandeliers, fresh flowers, and eye-catching pop art provided by Opera Gallery, the restaurant’s global art curator. Graffiti artist “Seen” is the featured artist behind the exclusive rotating pieces of art in the gallery. 305.704.3900; bagatellemiami.com 

Lobster Salad

12. Lobster Salad from Atrio

13. Roasted Beet Salad at Piripi
This restaurant in the heart of Coral Gables always strives to achieve a vibrant, memorable experience. The colorful Roasted Beet Salad with Sherry vinaigrette, candied almonds, and drunken goat cheese is a dish you’re sure to remember— even if you are a little “piripi.”  305.448.2423; piripimiami.com

14. Naiyara’s Ob Aroi
Ob Aroi is a colorful dish that brings together different elements and textures to create an edible masterpiece. Made with steamed glass noodles, fresh ginger, scallions, baby corn, celery, and sweet soy sesame oil, Ob Aroi is served in a closed pot, then unveiled like a work of art once it arrives at the table. The ingredients include crunchy vegetables, velvety noodles, and light, flaky fish. This is artwork at its tastiest. 305.947.4338; naiyara.com 

blt steak betsy

15. Gorgeous Photography Decking the Walls of The Betsy and BLT Steak
The Betsy Hotel–South Beach is designed to inspire guests to reflect upon the beauty of our world. A clean palette of white, taupe, and black makes the perfect canvas for the artwork displayed within—complemented by the giant chess board in the lobby and the palm trees and floral arrangements scattered throughout. From a photograph of John Lennon in the Bob Bonis Archive, to captivating images of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in their heydays, to the work of Hollywood photographer Robert Zuckerman, the halls of The Betsy and its signature restaurant BLT Steak are veritable art galleries in their own right. One of our favorites? The jellyfish. The surreal photographs of these marine creatures—portrayed in vivid colors as well as black-and-white—spark your imagination and evoke serenity. And during Art Basel, be sure to visit The Betsy to check out a much-anticipated show featuring limited-edition lithographs from South African artists.  305.531.6100; thebetsyhotel.com 

16. Edible Art at Milos by Costas Spiliadis 
Estiatorio Milos by Costas Spiliadis is a work of art from start to finish. While some of the fish and seafood on the menu is local, the majority is flown in fresh from the Mediterranean Sea and artfully displayed on ice. Guests are invited to get up from their tables and inspect the presentation as if it really were a work of art. Unlike art, however, here you can pick your favorite component and eat it right off the canvas. 305.604.6800; milos.ca/restaurants/miami 

17.  Liquid Art at Craft Social Club 
Craft cocktails are nothing new, but Craft Social Club takes the liquid art form to a whole new level. Cocktails are handmade tableside in the form of personal libations, shooters, and punch bowls for the whole table to share. The World is Yours, just one of these artistic creations, pays tribute to “Scarface,” blending Don Julio 1942 Tequila, strawberry-infused dry Curacao, Velvet Falernum, lemon-peach cordial, and ginger fizz. 786.216.7719; craftsocialclub.com

18. Godiva Pumpkin Martini from Segafredo
Coat the rim of a martini glass lightly with pumpkin purée and then pumpkin pie spice. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée1 ounce cream, 1 ounce agave nectar, 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and 2 ounces vodka. Shake vigorously for 8 to 10 seconds. Pour into prepared martini glass and garnish with fresh orange zest205.673.0047; sze-originale.com  

19. Art Deco Design at The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Reminiscent of a glamorous 1930s Art Deco ocean liner, The Oceanaire Seafood Room exudes a nautical feel—without fishnets, anchors, or any of that seaside kitsch. Instead, the chandelier- studded restaurant is ornamented with contemporary artwork, stark metal trim, and electric-blue light fixtures that add a soft glow to the restaurant’s dark hardwood floor and white tablecloths. A chic outdoor patio with prime views of bustling Mary Brickell Village makes Oceanaire the perfect setting to enjoy the freshest seafood flown in daily from around the world. Speaking of which, did we mention there’s a custom oyster bar featuring more than 10 varieties of shellfish on ice? 305.372.8862; theoceanaire.com 

Market at Edition

20. The Light-Filled Market at EDITION 
Every Jean-Georges restaurant showcases a certain style: fresh flavors, flawless plating, and clean lines throughout. Market at EDITION is no different. Sunlight filters through tall windows during breakfast and lunch, filling the space with a natural glow that illuminates the restored gold-tiled columns—relics of the 1950s Seville Hotel that used to occupy the space. As you stroll between the “pods” (with options such as a beverage bar, pastry station, charcuterie station, raw bar, and grill), soak up the glimmering warmth and enjoy the marketplace feel. 786.257.4600; editionhotels.com 

21. Villa Azur’s Charming Courtyard
Saturated in French glamour and contemporary elegance, Villa Azur charms the public with one of the most enchanting open-air courtyards in South Beach. Influenced by French-Mediterranean cuisine, guests here enjoy modern fare in a setting like no other. 303.763.8688; villaazurmiami.com 

22. The Art of Brunch at Tamarina Restaurant
Tamarina Restaurant has truly mastered the art of brunch. The Italian eatery recently introduced Sunday brunch to its busy schedule of weekly offerings, and the local brunch scene will never be the same. The restaurant knows that brunch guests are typically looking for a leisurely meal where they can kick back, relax, and enjoy their day off—and it aims to provide its guests such an experience.

Brunch at Tamarina is set up in buffet-style stations, providing an all- you-can-eat array of breakfast and lunch staples to suit even the most discerning brunch-goer. Expect to find live stations offering made- to-order omelettes, pancakes, waffles, and crêpes, in addition to an American station featuring corned beef hash, roast beef, and soups; a salad bar with a delectable variety of greens and dressings; a grill station featuring steak and eggs and pork ribs; an Italian station with frittatas, charcuterie, and homemade pizzas; and a seafood station with oysters, shrimp, and succulent smoked salmon. You can also expect to find various freshly baked pastries, muffins, and scones.

But mastering the art of brunch goes much further than just delicious and creatively presented foods; you must also have the appropriate ambience. Music is a big part of the brunch experience at Tamarina, where you will always be able to enjoy world-class live music. And, of course, what would a successful brunch be without the accompanying liquid refreshments? Various beverage packages are available, many of which offer unlimited drinks of your choosing, including Peach Sorbet Bellinis and the signature Mandarin Sorbet Mimosa, along with power juices and specialty coffee selections. Brunch is currently offered at Tamarina every Sunday, 11am-6pm (buffet open until 3pm). 305.579.1888; tamarinarestaurants.com 

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar

23. The Vibrant Walls of Wynwood Kitchen
Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is a staple in Miami’s Art District, reflecting its diverse nature and multimedia dynamic. Developed along with the Wynwood Walls by Goldman Properties in 2009, Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is the original destination in this art haven. At first glance, WKB might be mistaken for a gallery, as there are sculptures, murals, and other installations on premise. Still, it’s the vibrant art from famed street artists like Shepard Fairey, Os Gemeos, Kenny Scharf, and Faile & Bast that really put Wynwood Kitchen in a class of its own.

24. Curated Art at Adena Grill & Wine Bar
Adena Grill & Wine Bar has a warm and inviting atmosphere with a blend of Old-World ambience alongside a casual and modern vibe—and it’s one of our favorite new steakhouses in town. You’ll dine in style beneath Swarovski crystal chandeliers dangling from the vaulted ceiling, while large vases of fresh, delicate orchids dot the main dining tables. But it’s the art on the walls that really draws the eye. Highly acclaimed Russian artist Anna Razumovskaya was commissioned to hand-paint the scenic murals. Other elements such as the elegant dark wood tables and striking marble countertop bar were all hand-selected by Owner Frank Stronach himself. 954.464.2333; adenagrill.com 

Causa Cangrejo

By Sherri Balefsky | Contributing Writer

March isn’t just about green beer and parades. Miami has much to offer this month in the way of parties, dinners, and special menus. Here are the five Miami food events you just can’t miss.

Semilla French Gastro Week
1. French Gastro Week at Semilla
Monday, March 9 – Saturday, March 14
Chef Frédéric Joulin of Semilla Eatery & Bar has invited his Michelin-starred and Maîtres Cuisiniers de France friends (Chef Jean-Jacques Noguier of La Ferme de l’Hospital Restaurant in Bossey, France; Chef Jean-Christophe LeBascle of La Manufacture in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France; and Chef Yvan Zaplatilek of Paris’ Yvan Restaurant) to join him in his kitchen for a weeklong celebration dedicated to French cuisine. To make reservations, call 305.674.6522.

hearts and stars gala

2. Hearts and Stars Gala
Saturday, March 14
The Little Lighthouse Foundation, a local charity dedicated to helping children and families that struggle with educational, financial, and medical hardships, will host its annual Hearts and Stars Gala: Casablanca at the private waterfront in Miami Beach.  Sponsored by Haute Dining and Credit Suisse, this intimate soirée is one of South Florida’s premier philanthropic events, where guests can enjoy an open bar of top-shelf beverages, light hors d’oeuvres from some of Miami’s best restaurants, and live entertainment from Drums of the Sun all while supporting a very important cause. While the gala is now sold out for the fifth year in a row, guests can still attend the Hearts & Stars Gala Kickoff Party, which will take place on Friday, March 13, at Hyde Beach at the SLS. Donations can be made at hydebeach.com/heartsandstars.Fontainbleau Cellar Wine Series

3. Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series
Tuesday, March 17
The Fontainebleau hotel announces the return of its monthly Cellar 1954 wine series with a decadent meal at its newest dining venue, StripSteak by Michael Mina. Presented by Chef du Cuisine Derrick Roberts, diners will enjoy an exclusive four courses, each paired with a different varietal from Sonoma Valley’s Adobe Road Winery hand-selected by Owner/Winemaker Kevin Buckler.

Palme D'Or

4. Louis XIII Whiskey Dinner at Palme d’Or
Friday, March 20
The award-winning Palme d’Or restaurant at the Biltmore hotel in Coral Gables will host Louis XIII de Rémy Martin Ambassador Victor Blanquart for an exquisite dinner prepared by Chef du Cuisine Gregory Pugin and paired with selected wine. A highlight of the evening will be the rare chance to taste of the famous Louis XIII Cognac.

Uvaggio BBQ

5. Uvaggio’s Booze, BBQ, and Blues Birthday Bash
Sunday, March 22
Uvaggio Wine Bar celebrates its one-year anniversary in Coral Gables with a fun-filled afternoon of live blues music, barbecue dishes prepared by the restaurant’s very own Season 5 Top Chef contestant Bret Pelaggi, and, of course, lots and lots of wine. Another bonus: all ticket proceeds will go toward the Buckhams, a local family whose young daughter was recently diagnosed with Wilms’ Tumor and has been undergoing chemotherapy for the past few months.

By Erin Lavan | Associate Publisher

Sometimes, it’s best to leave the stress and fuss of holiday hosting and cooking to the professionals. Everyone needs a year off from time to time! Let one of Miami’s fine restaurants host you and yours for Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve dinners and parties, or New Year’s Day affairs.

Christmas Events

Traditional Mexican at Porfirio’s
Porfirio’s Restaurant is serving a prix-fixe traditional Mexican menu on Christmas Eve with a choice of one appetizer, a first course, a main course, and dessert for $65.

DB Bistro XMAS_NYE (2)

Dinner at db Bistro Moderne
From 6-10pm on Christmas Eve, db Bistro Executive Chef Jason Pringle will serve an á la carte menu of seasonal specials like Roasted Prime Rib and Nantucket Bay Scallops. What’s for dessert? A Classic Bûche de Noël.

Dinner at Trapiche Room
On Christmas Eve, join Trapiche from 6-10:30pm for an exquisite holiday dinner for $120 per person.

Classic Spanish Holiday Treats at Bellmónt
Bellmónt is sharing the Spanish holiday love this year on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Think traditional treats and a glass of Spanish cider, as is tradition in Spanish households. $150 per person, and $60 per child.

You can also enjoy Bellmónt’s signature “Cochinilla a la Leña” either at the restaurant or ordered for your own home with 12 hours notice. This whole suckling pig is roasted in a Spain-imported wood-fired oven.

Prix-Fixe Five Ways at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach
At any one of the Fontainebleau’s five concepts– Scarpetta, Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74, StripSteak by Michael Mina, and Vida–enjoy a special prix-fixe menu to celebrate the Christmas holiday. Visit the website for more info.

Christmas Fare at The Setai
On Christmas Eve, The Setai will offer two Christmas Eve menus (one vegetarian menu) for $110 per person with offerings such as Champs-Elysées Soup Bay Scallops with roasted morel-herb butter; Fish Fumet with Noilly Prat; Dover Sole Poached with garden nage and lemon thyme; Polenta Crispy Poached Egg with a fricassee of mushrooms and Burgundy truffle,  and La Buche De Noel Chestnut and Black Currant and Hazelnut Rum with chestnut ice cream.

On Christmas Day, The Setai will serve a holiday buffet to the tune of a modern jazz trip from 11:30am-3:30pm for $95 per person. Dig into dishes like ham, leg of lamb, Alaskan king crab legs, and desserts aplenty.

Throw a Pig Roast
If you’re hosting a Christmas dinner and haven’t yet figured out your main course, we have excellent news for you. Through December 24, you can order a whole-roasted six-pound suckling pig from Pubbelly Chef Jose Mendin. This Puerto Rican tradition is sure to floor all your guests. It serves five to seven people and comes with mofongo, tostones, arooz mamposteao, and a six-pack of Medalla with Pubbelly sauces. Place your order soon as a 48-hour pre-order is required. The pig is priced at $250 plus tax and service. Email [email protected] to order.

Siena Tavern_Holiday_Miami

Holiday Tasting Menu at Siena Tavern 
Join Siena Tavern for Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day four-course dinners from 6-11pm for $85 per person, and $35 for wine pairings. The courses will include an antipasti of Octopus Carpaccio, a choice of  Pasti, an entrée of Branzino or Herb-Crusted Bone-In Prime Rib, and Spiced Brioche Bread Pudding for dessert.

Holiday Menu at Seasalt and Pepper
On Christmas Day, Seasalt and Pepper will serve a holiday menu from noon-11pm.

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Lobster at Semilla
For $59 from December 24-30, enjoy a lobster menu at Semilla Eatery and Bar. The dinner will include a lobster appetizer (like the Lobster Causa Croquettes with tartar sauce), an entrée (like the Lobster and Truffle Risotto), and a dessert.

New Year’s Eve Events

Toast to 2015 at The Bazaar by José Andrés
The Bazaar menu blends Andrés’ Spanish heritage and personal ingenuity with influences from the local Latin culinary tradition. The $175 per person menu will feature dishes like Cotton Candy Foie Gras and Tuna Ceviche. The first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. Make your reservation online.

Sushi and Robata at Katsuya
Enjoy Katsuya Chef Uechi’s signature sushi and robata with new touches inspired by Miami’s local Latin flavor this New Year’s Eve. The first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. The $145 per person menu will be served family-style and feature courses like Wagyu Carpaccio, Yakimon Whole Fish, and the Chef’s sushi selection. Make your reservation online.

NYE 2015 Vintro Hotel

A Five-Course Dinner at Vintro Kitchen
At 9pm, enjoy a five-course dinner at Vintro Kitchen with bottomless red, white, and rosé wines and Prosecco for $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Afterwards, enjoy a party in the Scorpion Bar.

Party at Casa Juancho
Casa Juancho‘s doors open at 8pm. A special prix-fixe menu will be available. Make reservations by calling 303.642.2452.

Wine Pairing Dinner at Tamarina
This special evening at Tamarina will be divided into two seatings. The first seating at 7pm will feature the fixed menu for $95 or $130 with expertly paired wines of Vermentino, Macon-Villages, Tempranillo, Riesling, and Limoncello.

The second seating at 9pm will also feature the fixed menu for $95 or $150 with the paired wines and a New Year’s Eve after party with an open bar package that includes Russian Standard vodka, Beefeater gin, 10 Cane rum, 4 Rouses bourbon, Olmeca tequila, Gavi di Gavi white wine, Corvina red wine, Sommariva Prosecco, domestic and imported beers, soft drinks, coffee, and tea.

homepageNYE2

Something Different at Uvaggio
For $250 per person, Uvaggio Wine Bar brings you the best Champagnes from France and the US, oysters, caviar, crab, and so much more. Call to reserve your spot: 305.448.2400.

NYE 2014 Menu A fish called avalon

Five Courses at A Fish Called Avalon
For $250 per person, enjoy five courses and Laurent Perrier Champagne split bottle at A Fish Called Avalon. Mediterranean Meze, Lobster Thermidor, and Latin-Caribbean music, oh my!

A Special Menu at Tuyo
Tuyo‘s first seating is at 6pm, and the second is at 9pm. Call 305.237.3200 for more information.

Two Dinners or the Lounge at db Bistro Moderne
For the earlybirds, db Bistro will serve dinner at 5:30pm for $75 per person. Courses include dishes like Oyster Velouté, Black Truffle Risotto, Maple-Glazed Duck, and Coconut and White Chocolate Cake. There will be a five-course Gala Dinner at 9pm with complimentary Champagne for $195 per person wherein you can dine on Tuna Carpaccio, Black Truffle Ravioli, and more.

Or, head to the cover-free lounge anytime between 5pm-3am for a $50 prix-fixe raw bar and charcuterie meal (until 10pm), or an á la carte menu, bottle service, and a live DJ.

An All-Out Buffet at Trapiche Room
At the JW Marriot’s fine-dining restaurant, between 7:30pm-1am, enjoy a buffet and live entertainment.

Classic Spanish Holiday Treats at Bellmónt
Bellmónt is sharing the Spanish holiday love this year on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Think traditional treats and a glass of Spanish cider, as is tradition in Spanish households. $150 per person, and $60 per child.

Five Dinners at the Fontaniebleau
The iconic Fontainebleau is home to Scarpetta, Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74 and StripSteak by Michael Mina, and this New Year’s Eve, they will each prepare especially lavish and delicious four and five-course menus to help ring in the New Year. Visit the website for more information.

Ring in 2015 at The Setai
The New Year will mark The Setai, Miami Beach’s 10 Year Anniversary. They’re commemorating this milestone with a New Year’s Eve celebration dinner for $625 per adult. The menu will feature dishes like Lobster-Poached Maine Lobster with lemon potato mousse, truffle vinaigrette, and fresh Burgundy truffles; and Wagyu Beef Filet Mignon Rossini roasted with red wine-braised onions and foie gras.

On January 1, return for a New Year’s-themed buffet, SBS Flamenco, and a Mediterranean jazz trio from 11:30am-3:30pm for $110 per person. The buffet will include items from the rotisserie, an extensive array of seafood, Mediterranean specialties, and a dessert buffet. Passed hangover drinks with raw egg yolk, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and black pepper will be offered as well.

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Prix-Fixe at Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern‘s first seating will be from 6-7:30pm for $195 per person for a four-course menu. The second seating will be from 9-10:30 pm for $295 per person for a five-course menu. A cocktail package for bar seating is also available.

On New Year’s Day, Siena Tavern will host a brunch from 11am-4pm.

Tokyo Blue

Tuyo {415 Northeast Second Avenue; 305.237.3200}

Tuyo’s new executive chef, Victor Santos, has big shoes to fill, but the bright, young Brazilian-native has two things going for him with a culinary school degree and a hefty amount of experience in fine-dining restaurants under his belt. On where he’s taking Tuyo’s cuisine, Chef Victor Santos says, “We want to separate ourselves from the New-World cuisine that he [former Chef Norman Van Aken] so successfully did throughout his career, so I’m taking more of a modern American approach with a strong French influence with Asian and Latin touches.” For a cross-cultural tasting experience, Santos recommends the oven-roasted Red Snapper with coconut jasmine rice, lemongrass, and ginger-lime vinaigrette, topped with a black bean and pineapple salsa. tuyomiami.com

Old Lisbon {1698 Southwest 22nd Street; 305.854.0039}

After what feels like far too long, the culinary delight that is Old Lisbon has re-opened its doors at the historic Coral Way location. Servers carrying authentic Portuguese dishes walk out from a rustic open kitchen, while guests sit at white-clothed tables, surrounded by white walls, in a space adorned with hand-painted art of Old Lisbon, and all around is an atmosphere of Old-World charm. Take a seat, order the Bacalhau na Cataplana com Ameijoas (a stewed Norwegian codfish), and you’ll be transported to Old Lisbon. oldlisbon.com

L’Echon Brasserie {62nd Street and Collins Avenue; phone TBD}

To say Andreas Schreiner, Segio Navarro, and Jose Mendin (AKA The Pubbelly Boys) are on a roll would be a massive understatement. In less than four years, the trio has made huge culinary strides, opening six restaurants and most recently adding a seventh concept to their repertoire: L’Echon Brasserie. Their newest Pubbelly-style eatery makes its home at the renovated Hilton Cabana, where Chef Jose Mendin takes on the world of French cuisine with a twist by adding his unmistakably classic yet playful Pubbelly touch to a menu of shareable plates. A gorgeous indoor/outdoor setting with oceanfront views and two waterfalls provide the perfect space to bite into his French-inspired dishes. lechonbrasserie.com

Uvaggio {70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 707.224.2254}

“Top Chef” contestant Bret Pelaggi has partnered with former Wine Director Heath Porter and Owner Craig DeWald to open Uvaggio, a high-end, European-style wine bar. The three restaurateurs combined their passion for wines to create an upscale wine bar (with plenty of class but without the typical stuffiness) and curate a menu of wine-inspired dishes. It’s a unique process they call “tasting backwards,” where boutique wines are first carefully selected, and then their aromas, flavors, and textures help create and pair a corresponding dish. Uvaggio welcomes wine lovers with open arms. uvaggio.com

Big Fish {620 Northeast 78th Street; 305.373.1770}

Formerly located in Downtown Miami, the Italian eatery known as Big Fish has re-emerged—twice as delicious—on Biscayne Boulevard and 78th Street. The seafood emphasis here is bold and clear, with fresh fish dishes made even more delectable by friendly service, affordable prices, and a perfectly fitting ambience. Order the whole Branzino and lay back on the outdoor patio as you indulge, while white curtains move in the breeze and sailboats float gently along the river. The Big Fish legacy continues. thebigfishrestaurant.com

R House {2727 Northwest Second Avenue; 305.576.0201}

Come on over to R House, and experience Chef/Owner Rocco Carulli’s new sensory experience in Wynwood. It’s a restaurant, lounge, and art gallery all in one. R House boasts a menu of shareable contemporary American dishes sprinkled with Latin, Asian,  and Mediterranean influences. The restaurant is also home to the White Porch Gallery, which features an innovative movable wall system showcasing the work of various artists. And, of course, R House’s cozy lounge provides an ideal space for guests to enjoy the DJ’s tunes and sip on home-infused cocktails. Come check it out—R House is your house. rhousewynwood.com 

La Mar {500 Brickell Key Drive; 305.913.8288}

As a Gaston Acurio restaurant, La Mar could have chosen no lovelier nor more elegant setting than the Forbes five-star, award-winning Mandarin Oriental. At La Mar, Acurio’s acclaimed cuisine—an eclectic combination of Peruvian-Asian fusion and nuovo-Andean fare—is served in a stunning space with panoramic water views. A truly unique Miami experience, with just the right touch of luxury and creative tastes, awaits you there. mandarinoriental.com

Colette {1223 Lincoln Road; 305.534.7888}

Behind this quaint and charming French eatery on Lincoln Road is Frederic Boldron, a highly knowledgeable chef with over 18 years of culinary experience, who brings his passion for French cuisine to the charismatic Colette Little French Bistro. Under the supervision of Colette’s owner, Francis Pittilloni, Boldron dishes out French classics in a warm and inviting setting, ideal for a pre-dinner bottle of rosé or a post-movie alfresco meal. There’s always the option for a romantic meal in the sunshine, too, since Colette is newly open for lunch as well. coletterestaurant.com

Tokyo Blue  {4040 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale; 954.566.2122}

When a restaurant taps not one, but two former Nobu chefs, the outcome is most likely going to be something beyond wonderful. Tokyo Blue has done just that at the new Downtown location, having added the highly skilled Chef Mai, specializing in Thai delicacies and Japanese food; and Sushi Chef Jo, who works exclusively with the freshest ingredients of the highest quality. And at Tokyo Blue, dining on five-star Eastern dishes doesn’t break the bank, to the delight of our palates and wallets. tokyoblueonthebeach.com 

Dry de Luxe {2000 Collins Avenue, Suite 4; 786.484.4260}

When you go out for a special meal, you want to look your best. To achieve your most stunning, drop-dead-gorgeous look before a romantic dinner or a night out with the girls, leave it up to the most capable hands in town, Dry de Luxe. The Miami Beach blow-dry lounge will not only update your ‘do to supermodel status, but they’ll also shape your brows and apply your make-up, leaving you looking absolutely fabulous. After all, your dinner shouldn’t be the only thing looking beautiful. drydeluxe.com