TOP 40
Restaurants
MIAMI
2020 BY @RENEGOURMET
I am so proud and happy to call Miami my home for many reasons, and among them is the area’s abundance of excellent restaurants because dining out and good food are two of my passions. Compiling and publishing this top 40 restaurant list is a dream come true for me. Of course the best part of this process was getting to eat at what my talented team and I believe are the best local restaurants, although, I must admit, it was also the most expensive part. The most difficult part for us, once we identified our favorites, was actually numbering them. All of these 40 have amazing food, service and ambiance, but some, in our opinion, are just a little better than the others. I hope you will find this guide helpful. Enjoy your meal!
Rene Buroz CEO/Founder
PG 08. #1 - L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon PG 10. #2 - LE SIRENUSE PG 12. #3 - FIOLA PG 14. #4 - THE SURF CLUB RESTAURANT
PG 20. #7 - THE BAZAAR BY JOSE ANDRES PG 22. #8 - PAO BY PAUL QUI PG 24. #9 - ZUMA
PG 16. #5 - LA MAR
PG 26. #10 - MATADOR ROOM
PG 18. #6 - JOE’S STONE CRAB
PG 28. #11 - NOBU
PG 30. #12 - BYBLOS
Contents PG 48.
#21 - BOULUD SUD
PG 32. #13 - HAKKASAN
PG 50. #22 - SUSHI BY BOU
PG 34. #14 - ALTER
PG 52. #23 - LE PETITE MAISON
PG 36. #15 - KOMODO PG 38. #16 - IL GABBIANO PG 40. #17 - SWAN & BAR BEVY PG 42. #18 - MAKOTO PG 44. #19 - PRIME 112
PG 54. #24 - PAPI STEAK
PG 46. #20 - STUBBORN SEED
PG 56. #25 - MIGNONETTE PG 58. #26 - UPLAND PG 60. #27 - SAPORE DI MARE 5
PG 62. #28 - MANDOLIN AGEAN BISTRO
PG 78.
PG 64. #29 - CASA TUA
#36 - MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB
PG 66. #30 - KYU
PG 80.
PG 68. #31 - LE ZOO
#37 - MADRID TAPAS Y VINOS
PG 70. #32 - PALM RESTAURANT PG 72. #33 - ESTIATORIO MILOS PG 74. #34- NOVIKOV PG 82.
PG 76. #35 - PLANTA SOUTH BEACH
#38 - ZAIKA INDIAN CUISINE PG 84. #39 - LOBA PG 58. #40 - MICHAEL’S GENUINE CUISINE 6
FOUNDER/CEO Gourmet Pleasures Rene Buroz (2020) Editor in Chief/ Creative Design Margie Castro
CONTRIBUTORS Gabriela Morales Alex Forster Hillarin Soto Alexandra Buroz Rene Buroz M. Oswaldo Pisfil
Senior Editor: Ellen Rosenfeld
PUBLISHED BY Stage Wynwood LLC 2018
Editorial@gourmetpleasures.com
Head Office: 350 S. Miami Ave Ste. A Miami, Fl. 33130
PHOTOGRAPHY GP Photography @ReneGourmet @DroneProductions Adobe Stock Images
Email: Contact@gourmetpleasures.com
FOR OTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE VISIT: www.GourmetPleasures.com © Copyright 2020 Gourmet Pleasures. All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this guide, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein. @GourmetPleasures
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1
L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
All too often when a famous chef passes away the world is deprived of his or her award winning cuisine, but that is not the case with Joel Robuchon, whose talent lives on in the recently opened L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon Miami located in the Miami Design District. The primarily red and black decor is stunning with counter service seating 34, affording diners a fascinating view of the magic taking place in the kitchen and a handful of tables. The food is contemporary French iconic signature dishes, along with new and creative seasonal options, and the diner has a choice of á la carte or several different tasting menus. We can’t recommend one particular entree, since everything we tried was incredible, but we do strongly suggest you not leave without ordering the outstanding Le Souffle. www.latelier-miami.com
French
(305) 402-9070
151 NE 41st St suite 235, Miami, FL 33137 8
9
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2Sirenuse Le
From the moment you leave your car at the valet parking station at Le Sirenuse you sense you are about to have an amazing experience. Located in The Surf Club in Surfside, this former “playground” of Hollywood stars and royalty is an elegant restaurant reminiscent of the “good old days” of fine dining. Their menu features the best of Southern Italian cuisine, with a large variety of wines and champagnes that pair perfectly with their excellent dishes. We highly recommend ordering the Polipo e Patata, which is a roasted Mediterranean octopus and mashed potatoes, and the Raviolone Cacio e Pepe, which are stuffed with intensely flavorful Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. www.sirenusemiami.com
Mediterranean
(786) 482-2280
9011 Collins Ave, Surfside, FL 33154 10
11
3Fiola
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Fiola is an award winning Washington D.C. transplant located in Coral Gables and is an ideal choice for those craving the cuisine and culture of Italy. The decor exudes class, with the focal point being a glass walled wine room climbing approximately 20 feet into the air, but what really shines in its ambiance is the stellar service we received, possibly the best we have ever experienced in Miami. The menu is inspired by regional Italian favorites, using seasonal ingredients and features raw bar selections, soups and salads, home-made pasta (including gluten free options), and both seafood and meat prepared in either a wood fired oven or simply grilled. We can’t stop “dreaming” of their extraordinary, and unusual, Porcini Mushroom “Cappuccino soup with sheep’s milk ricotta pansotti (stuffed pasta) and a parmigiano foam. www.fiolamiami.com
Italian
(305) 912-2639
1500 San Ignacio Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33146
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4
# The Surf Club Restaurant
For those longing for the “bygone” days of a 1950’s fine dining experience, renowned chef Thomas Keller’s The Surf Club Restaurant, located in the recently revamped Surf Club, is a perfect choice for exquisite continental cuisine. There is live jazz music in the bar, turquoise and rose colored velvet chairs, dark furniture and white tablecloths, which all contribute to a romantic and intimate ambiance conjuring up thoughts of “glamour and class”. The á la carte menu features food which is classic and easily recognizable, something that is becoming rarer to find in recently opened dining establishments. If you are a seafood fan, we strongly suggest you order the jumbo lump crab cakes, which are served with a spicy mayonnaise and are among the best we have ever eaten. www.surfclubrestaurant.com
American
(305) 768-9440
9011 Collins Ave, Surfside, FL 33154
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# La Mar
You can not talk about Peruvian cuisine without mentioning the world famous and extraordinarily talented chef Gaston Acurio, whose gourmet restaurant La Mar is located in the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel on Brickell Key Drive in Miami. The interior has a contemporary but warm and inviting design, and the outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the beautiful Miami skyline. If you are unfamiliar with Peruvian cuisine, don’t worry, as the wonderful waitstaff are eager to help guide you in your ordering process. La Mar has over a dozen choices of ceviche (some of the freshest we have had) and we urge you to begin your meal with the ceviche sampler which consists of three of their most popular selections. www.MandarinOriental.com
South American - Peruvian
(305) 913-8358
500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131
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17
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6
Joe’s Stone Crab
South Florida is the true home base for stone crabs, and for the best there is only one place to visit, Joe’s Stone Crabs, located at the southern end of Miami Beach. This is their 106th season of service and there is always a long waiting list for a table since they do not accept reservations, and yet they still continue to treat every diner as if they are an honored guest. Although their truly unique coleslaw, expertly cracked stone crabs, perfectly crusted hash browns and delicably tart key lime pie are a standard order for seasoned visitors, please don’t overlook the many other options available on the menu. Everything that comes out of their kitchen is first rate and, in our opinion, this “seafood restaurant” makes the best fried chicken we have ever had. www.joesstonecrab.com
Seafood
(305) 673-0365
11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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7Bazaar
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In our opinion, no list of important top chefs would be complete if it did not include the name Jose Andres, and his restaurant The Bazaar is a prime example of his undeniable talent. Located in the lobby of the SLS Hotel in South Beach, the decor is very eclectic with three distinct dining options, including a terrace area featuring tapas. The extensive and innovative menu showcases the chef’s Spanish roots, coupled with Asian inspirations and ingredients. The Fish in Papillote with caper sauce and crispy quinoa arrives at your table wrapped in cellophane and tied with black ribbon, very much resembling a present, and is then “unwrapped” in front of you by your server releasing the dish’s tantalizing aromas. www.thebazaar.com
Spanish
(305) 455-2999
1701 Collins Ave suite 100, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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# Pao by Paul Qui
For expertly prepared and delectable modern Asian fusion dishes inspired by the cuisines of the Philippines, Spain, Japan and France this is the place to dine. Located in the very posh Faena Hotel in South Beach, the decor is both striking and grand with the focal point being a golden unicorn statue “standing guard” under a domed ceiling. Their “next-level” menu is comprised of crudo dishes, small and large plates featuring salads, meats, fish and chicken, specialty rice creations and unique desserts. One of our favorite dishes is their outstanding smoked short rib asado, which is made with Wagyu beef that has been cooked for 72 hours and is accompanied by one of the best sweet potato purees we have ever eaten. www.Faena.com
Asian
(786) 655-5630
3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
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9Zuma
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If you are in the mood for authentic Japanese cuisine prepared in a modern and sophisticated manner Zuma, located in the heart of downtown Miami, is the place to go. This is a very fashionable dining spot where many go to “see and be seen� and its ambiance is elegant, while still remaining fun and energetic. The menu is extensive, with seasonal dishes, soups and salads, seafood, sushi, meat and desserts, and one of their main methods of cooking is the robata, which is in some ways similar to a barbeque. Among our favorite dishes is the Kurobuta Pork Belly Skewers with yuzu mustard miso, which arrives at your table soft, juicy, and full of flavor. www.zumarestaurant.com
Japanese
(305) 577-0277
270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131
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Matador Room
World renowned chef Jean-George Vongerichtens’s marvelous restaurant Matador Room is located in The Miami Beach Edition, the former site of The Seville Hotel originally built in 1955. Although the hotel was fully renovated, the architects were able to incorporate many of the original art deco designs. The gorgeous indoor dining space is opulent, romantic and very reminiscent of the glamour of a 1950’s supper club. The name Matador Room suggests that the food is purely Spanish, but in actuality the cuisine is a combination of the wonderful flavors of the Caribbean, Spain, Latin America and South America, with an emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. We are still dreaming about their sensational Tres Leches prepared with various fruits. www.MatadorRoom.com
Latin American
(786) 257-4600
2901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
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Nobu 11
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Nobu is the creation of celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who currently has over 30 restaurants across 5 continents of the world. Located in the beautiful Eden Roc Hotel in Miami Beach, which recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation, Nobu offers everything you want in a dining experience; excellent cuisine, fabulous service and great ambiance. Mr. Matsuhisa’s fusion cuisine is inspired by his years working in Peru where he found it difficult to obtain the Japanese ingredients he previously used when cooking in his native country. We have never had a dish at Nobu that we didn’t utterly enjoy, and we are particularly fond of the Lobster Shiitake Salad with Spicy Lemon Dressing. www.Noburestaurants.com
Japanese
(305) 695-3232
4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
28
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12Byblos
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Located in the heart of South Beach in the Shorecrest Tower of the Royal Palm South Beach Hotel, Byblos is an exemplary choice for those wishing to dine on delicious Eastern Mediterranean cuisine prepared using a combination of classic cooking methods, modern techniques, and both traditional and local ingredients. The restaurant is dark and romantic, large but still cozy, and somewhat remindful of a Turkish “boudoir”. Byblos’ menu features a large number of popular dishes, many of which are meant to be shared, including several different varieties of pide. Pide is a Turkish flatbread baked in a wood-fired oven and then filled or topped with various ingredients, and we highly recommend the Black Truffle Pide with buffalo mozzarella, halloumi and tartufata. www.byblosmiami.com
Mediterranean
(786) 864-2990
1545 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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13Hakkasan
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This modern Cantonese dining establishment has a dozen locations scattered around the globe and its Miami Beach restaurant is located in the perfect spot, the iconic Fontainebleau, a hotel which has represented the best of Miami Beach for decades. The ambiance is both energetic and intimate, with some areas playing loud electronic music, and others offer small and relatively quiet dining alcoves. The menu is extensive, featuring unique gourmet Chinese cuisine skillfully prepared by their gifted chefs who use only the finest of ingredients. Hakkasan’s Peking Duck with Osetra caviar is one of our favorite dishes and we are never disappointed when we order it. www.hakkasan.com
Chinese
(877) 326-7412
4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
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14Alter
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When you are in the mood for impeccably prepared and high end New American cuisine we suggest that you visit Alter, located in Wynwood, but we must warn you that some dishes are almost too pretty to eat. The restaurant is small and casual, with a minimalist decor reminiscent of an industrial space and features an open glass enclosed kitchen so you can watch the magical skills of the talented staff. Except for a few “enhancements”, there is no á la carte menu, and you have a choice of either a 5 or 7 course tasting menu, which changes seasonally. Because of the menu, we cannot recommend a particular dish, but the 7 course option is well worth the price and we do suggest you order a side dish of their fantastic “bread and beurre”. www.altermiami.com
Bar
(305) 573-5996
223 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127 34
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15 KOMODO
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No list of top Miami restaurants would be complete if it omitted the ultra trendy Komodo, located on Brickell Avenue. This multi-level indoor/outdoor restaurant and lounge is the place to go if you want to dine among the rich and famous, and don’t be surprised if you leave with a sore neck from constantly turning to see the various actors, musicians and sports celebrities that walk past your table. Komodo is more than just a nightclub experience, but also a fine dining one due to their outstanding Southeast Asian cuisine and their creative menu which includes Grutman Pastrami Egg Roll, named after David Grutman the restaurant’s owner. Their Peking Duck is among the best you can find in Miami. www.komodomiami.com
Southeast Asian
+1.305.534.2211
801 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 36
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IL Gabbiano
When it comes to Italian restaurant there are a multitude to choose from in the Miami area, but few that can compete with the quality of the traditional Northern Italian dishes served at Il Gabbiano, located in downtown Miami. The posh setting includes a main dining room that is elegant and romantic and an inviting waterfront terrace with the most breathtaking views of the Port of Miami, Miami Beach and Key Biscayne. The menu has something for every taste; from antipasto, soups, salads, homemade pastas and risottos, to meat, fish and chicken. If you are a fan of octopus, you will love their grilled octopus with white bean salad, which is so unbelievably soft and tender you may be tempted to order a second portion. www.ilgabbianomia.com
Italian
(305) 373-0063
335 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33131
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Swan & Bar Bevy
With Swan and Bar Bevy, David Grutman, in partnership with singer, songwriter and record producer Pharrell Williams, once again demonstrates his expertise as a restaurant owner. Located in the Miami Design District, Swan is the perfect blend of elegance combined with minimalism and class and, of course, superb cuisine and first class service. The menu features dishes that have been globally inspired with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, all of which are extremely innovative and beautifully plated. We have tried, and loved, almost everything on the menu, but if we were forced to pick a favorite it would be the unforgettable Ricotta Gnudi with preserved truffles and parmesan. www.SwanBevy.com
Modern European
(305) 704-0994
90 NE 39th St, Miami, FL 33137
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18Makoto
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Located in the very luxurious and “high-end� Bal Harbor Shops, Makoto features a 21st century Japanese menu which is certain to please those anxious to try something new. The decor is classy and sophisticated with a spacious interior dining area and two outdoor terraces, one of which overlooks the beautiful shopping mall. The menu is simple, but by no means limited, offering both hot and cold appetizers, salads, rice and noodle dishes, fish and meat and, of course, a large assortment of sushi and sashimi. For a main course we recommend the Wagyu Hot Stone with a sesame dipping sauce, which is cooked tableside and is not only delicious but also provides an entertaining dining experience. www.Makoto-Restaurant.com
Modern Japanese
(305) 864-8600
9700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154
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19Prime 112
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When it comes to selecting a restaurant in South Florida, where you can enjoy a good steak it is almost mandatory to consider Prime 112 located in South Beach in the historic Browns Hotel. This is a contemporary restaurant with a modern interior design and is already deemed a classic in our city. Prime 112 is primarily known as a “steakhouse”, with all of their beef being USDA Prime and dry aged for 30 days, but do not hesitate to try their seafood selections which are always fresh and flavorful. We recommend ordering the Bone-In Filet, which is a very tender cut of beef not always offered on menus in other restaurants, and brings to mind the 14th century proverbial saying “the nearer the bone, the sweeter the meat.” www.mylesrestaurantgroup.com
Steakhouse
(305) 532-8112
112 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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Stubborn 20Seed
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Chef Jeremy Ford was the winner of Season 13 (2015/2016) of the award winning television reality show Top Chef, and the food at his South Beach restaurant Stubborn Seed is proof positive that the tv judges knew what they were doing. Stubborn Seed has a cozy bistro ambiance with gray concrete walls, matt black tables with burlap napkins tied with fresh flowers, and a large open window to the kitchen which allows you to witness the professionalism of the staff. The food is mainly seasonal American, and the creative menu, which is somewhat limited, is printed on paper as it changes daily. If available, we highly recommend the crunchy potatoes prepared with rosemary, lemon, parmesan and soppressata ham. www.stubbornseed.com
American
(786) 322-5211
101 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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47
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Boulud 21Sud
Although Chef Daniel Boulud’s Boulud Sud is located in the JW Marriott Marquis in downtown Miami it is so much more than your typical hotel restaurant, and should not be overlooked by local residents looking to enjoy a gourmet dining experience. Chef Boulud is well known for his prestigious career with numerous accolades and awards, and Boulud Sud is another example of his awe inspiring creativity and talent in the kitchen. Their large menu features Mediterranean dishes influenced by the flavors of France’s Cote d Azur, Spain, Italy, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, Israel and Turkey. If you like octopus you must order the octopus a la plancha with Arugula, Marcona almonds and orange segments, which is absolutely spectacular. www. bouludsud.com
Mediterranean
(305) 421-8800
255 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131
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Sushi 22 by Bou
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Sushi lovers and fans of unique dining adventures will not be disappointed by the omakase dining experience at Sushi by Bou located in Miami Beach at the former Versace Mansion, now known as Villa Casa Casuarina. Omakase translates to “I’ll leave it up to you” or “entrust yourself to the chef” and in this case it consists of a 60 minute 17 course meal prepared by your master chef. The restaurant is situated in the “Gianni Suite” of this famous home and the decor and ambiance is as elaborate and opulent as you would expect, right down to the Versace logo on the magnificent plates and flatware. As there is a set menu we can not recommend a favorite dish, but we do suggest that you try their self-pouring sake bar, or order one of their fabulous and unique cocktails. www.SushibyBou.com
Japanese
(305) 922-9195
1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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Le Petite 23Maison
Located in the Brickell area, this is the first United States establishment of this upscale and sensational French eatery which has international locations in London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong. Decorated in a modern European style with white walls, chairs and tables, mismatched art on the wall and the use of fresh produce as decor, including large tomatoes on the tables for patrons to slice and eat, the ambiance is both chic and intimate. The menu includes many classic French/Mediterranean favorites, “homemade“ pasta dishes and a large selection of fresh fish, all prepared using the highest quality ingredients. We do not hesitate in recommending the Canard a l’Orange, slow cooked duck legs with a superb orange glaze. www.lpmrestaurants.com
French
(305) 403-9133
1300 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131
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53
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Papi 24Steak
Papi Steak located in Miami Beach’s ritzy SOFI neighborhood (South of Fifth) is another outstanding restaurant from well-known hospitality expert David Grutman, this time in partnership with his good friend David “Papi” Einhorn. This is a rather small space, compared to his other restaurants, but still has the feel of an elegant “supperclub,” and don’t be surprised if you find yourself seated next to a celebrity or two. The menu is somewhat limited, but has something for everyone, including prime cuts of meat and “kosher style” favorites, all prepared with a modern twist. We recommend that you order the Wagyu Pastrami with cornichon (minuscule sour French pickles) and house made mustard, which is so wonderfully enjoyable that our mouths are drooling just writing about it. www.papisteak.com
Modern Steak house
(305) 800-7274
736 1st St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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Mignonette Downtown
For those evenings when you are craving the fresh flavors of the sea in a relaxing atmosphere Mignonette Downtown is the place to go. Located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Miami on the site of a former 1930’s gas station, this is a small oyster bar/seafood “haven” with a New Orleans French Quarter vibe. The menu is large and offers an assortment of oyster dishes, caviar and fish prepared either “plain or fancy” and several meat dishes, among other items, all of which demonstrate the chefs’ talented and sophisticated preparation skills. We absolutely love Mignonette’s flavorful Bouillabaisse which includes South African lobster tail, mussels, shrimp snow crab and saffron. www.Mignonettemiami.com
Oyster Bar
(305) 374-4635
210 NE 18th St, Miami, FL 33132
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Upland 26Miami
Miami Beach’s chic “south of fifth” neighborhood is home to Upland Miami, an outpost of the extremely popular Upland located in New York City. with its bistro atmosphere featuring a warm dark wood decor and its California inspired menu, it is almost an exact duplicate of its namesake. Critically acclaimed chef Justin Smillie was born in Upland, California and then moved to rural New Jersey and his cooking is influenced by the rustic elements of nature. Upland Miami’s menu is large, offering a wide assortment of creative pizzas, entrees and sides, many of which are prepared in the restaurant’s wood fired grill. Our favorite dish is their excellent Smoked Roast Branzino for two, prepared with a delicious fennel leek vinaigrette and lemon. www.UplandMiami.com
Italian
(305) 602-9998
49 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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59
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Sapore 27di Mare
This cozy but sensational Italian restaurant is located on Grand Avenue in Coconut Grove. The creation of spouses Giorgia Calabrese and Matteo Paderni, both natives of Italy, its interior is decorated with a nautical theme and you feel instantly transported to Capri or the Amalfi coast. Their menu is large and varied with an emphasis on their perfectly executed homemade pastas and fresh seafood selections Their Cacio e Pepe, which roughly translates to “cheese and pepper� was a special the night we last visited, and we are still dreaming of this homemade pasta that our waiter stirred tableside into the center of a small wheel of pecorino cheese and generously adorned with a topping of shaved black truffles. www.SaporediMaremiami.com
Italian
(305) 476-8292
3111 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133 60
61
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Mandolin Agean Bistro
This gem of a restaurant located in the Miami Design District was opened in 2009 by the husband and wife team of Ahmet Erkaya and Anastasio Koutsioukis. Although this is an unpretentious and simple spot, the diner upon entering instantly feels as if they are on a Greek island or the coast of Turkey. Their extensive menu is a mix of the cuisines of both countries and includes something for everyone. We love everything they serve, but we are particularly partial to their sumptuous Cheese Saganaki with Baked Feta, which is prepared with tomatoes, smoked Greek chili flakes and spicy pickled Turkish peppers. www.mandolinmiami.com
Greek
(305) 749-9140
4312 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137 62
63
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Casa Tua
There are probably 100s of Italian restaurants in South Florida, but if you are in the mood for an authentic Northern Italian meal in an upscale environment we do not hesitate to recommend Casa Tua. Casa Tua, located in South Beach, is reminiscent of an Italian Villa with a comfortable and inviting indoor dining space, which includes a 20 seat chef’s table where you can watch the live action happening in the kitchen, and an outdoor dining area surrounded by a beautiful garden with romantic lighting hanging from the trees. If you are craving pasta, be sure to order the Potatoes Gnocchi alla forchetta with burrata, cream and tomato sauce. www.CasaTuaLyfestyle.com
Italian
(305) 673-1010
1700 James Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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30KYU
If you are hungry for creative Asisan cuisine we suggest that you head directly to Kyu, but be sure to make reservations in advance as their reputation for exquisite food is well known. Kyu’s menu is large and diverse, and divided into categories with unique titles such as Snacky Snacks, Fresh & Bright, Crispy, Crunchy and Wood Fired, which features dishes prepared using Japanese/ Korean barbequing techniques. The decor is very fitting for the restaurant’s Wynwood location, with raw concrete walls, lots of wood and metal accents, and an open kitchen. Our favorite dish is from the wood fired section and is the Thai fried rice stone pot with fried egg and pork sausage. www.kyurestaurants.com
Asian
(786) 577-0150
251 NW 25th St, Miami, FL 33127
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Le 31Zoo
For delicious French bistro cuisine served in a magnificent setting Le Zoo, located in South Florida’s internationally well known and posh Bal Harbour Shops, is the place to go. The ambiance is similar to the sidewalk cafes of Paris mixed with a St Tropez “vibe”, especially if you choose to dine “al fresco” where you are treated to a nonstop fashion show of beautiful people. When we look for a French restaurant we want to see all our favorite traditional classics on the menu and Le Zoo doesn’t disappoint, including a wonderful selection of regional French cheeses and an excellent wine list. We highly recommend the Moules Frites (mussels with fries) prepared with white wine, shallots and garlic. www.lezoo.com
French
(305) 602-9663
9700 Collins Ave #135, Miami Beach, FL 33154
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Palm Restaurant Miami
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The first Palm Restaurant was opened in 1926 in New York City and this family owned and operated “chain� has been going strong since then. The Palm Miami is located on a quiet side street in Bay Harbor and is a favored destination for discerning diners who long for a consistently good steakhouse with a welcoming atmosphere. Their menu features USDA prime aged beef, jumbo Nova Scotia lobster and classic Italian dishes. Gourmet Pleasures is particularly fond of their Thick-Cut Applewood Smoked Bacon, their Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and their melt in your mouth filet mignon. www.ThePalm.com
Steakhouse - Seafood
(305) 868-7256
9650 E Bay Harbor Dr, Bay Harbor Islands, FL 33154
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Estiatorio 33Milos
Chef Costas Spiliadis first introduced the world to authentic Greek cuisine when he opened his first restaurant in Montreal in 1979 and now, four decades later, he is still celebrated for his culinary skills with restaurants around the world, including Milos Miami which opened its doors in 2012. Estiatorio Milos is located in South Beach and its minimalistic decor with billowing white curtains and wood beamed ceilings instantly makes you feel as if you are dining by the sea in Greece. The menu primarily features fresh fish which has been flown in from Greece, Spain and Portugal and is prominently displayed on crushed ice for diners to see. Their Kefalograviera - Cheese Saganaki, a hard table cheese cut into triangles, rolled in seasoned flour and then fried, is absolutely out of this world. www.estiatoriomilos.com
Greek
(305) 604-6800
730 1st St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
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34Novikov
What do Miami, London and Moscow all have in common? They all offer the sublime opportunity to dine at the amazing restaurant Novikov. Miami’s location is Downtown with an eclectic indoor dining room, where the “star” of the decor is the absolutely astonishing presentation of fresh fruits, vegetables and mouth-watering seafood; or you can opt to dine on the outdoor terrace with stunning views of Biscayne Bay. The menu offers an extremely large assortment of both Japanese and Chinese dishes including sashimi, sushi, dim sum, wok dishes and robata, among many others items. It is really difficult for us to pick our favorite dish, but everytime we go we make sure to include the Novikov Black Cod as one of our entrees. www.NovikovMiami.com
Chinese-Japanes
(305) 489-1000
300 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33131
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35 Planta
We must admit that the first time we dined at Planta we went with apprehension since we are meat lovers and this restaurant’s food is 100% plant based, but we left shocked and excited about how much we enjoyed our meal. Both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will be delighted by this first class restaurant and their large and varied menu, which includes sushi, ceviche, pizzas and many more options, all prepared without any animal products including dairy. Located in South Beach the vibe is as good as the food with Planta’s beautiful and modern open and airy decor. We absolutely loved (and devoured) our (meatless) Planta Burger with queso, dill pickles, lettuce, tomato, mustard, chipotle aioli, and tajin fries. www.PlantaRestaurants.com
Plant Based
(305) 397-8513
850 Commerce St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
76
77
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36
Mastro’s ocean Club
If you are longing for a venerable upscale dining experience away from the hustle and bustle of South Beach and its surrounding neighborhoods, this is the place for you. Combining great food, elegant surroundings and first class service, Mastro’s Ocean Club is located on the intercoastal in Ft. Lauderdale making it a perfect spot for arriving by boat if you so desire, but keep in mind they do have a dress code. Their menu offers excellent choices with an emphasis on what they are known for, their mouth-watering steaks and fresh seafood. Mastro’s Seafood Tower must be seen to be believed and their Signature Warm butter cake is not to be missed. www.mastrosrestaurants.com
Steakhouse
(954) 561-4800
3000 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
78
79
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37
Madrid Tapas Y Vinos
It is not surprising there are an abundance of Spanish “style� restaurants in Miami but there are few that serve truly authentic and traditional Spanish cuisine, and Madrid Tapas y Vinos is one of the best. This small but romantic restaurant makes you feel like you are dining in Madrid and not on busy Le Jeune Road. Not only is the food amazing but each evening you can enjoy live music performed by their very talented musicians. Their menu includes a large selection of perfectly prepared tapas plates and we absolutely love their Paella Marisco, which is made with jumbo shrimp, calamari, green beans and red peppers. www.ordermadridtapasyvinos.com
Spanish
(786) 391-2471
525 NW 42nd Ave, Miami, FL 33126 80
81
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38 ZAIKA
For authentic and classic Indian food prepared with a contemporary twist this North Miami restaurant is the place to dine. Zaika is decorated with a simple Indian decor and as you enter you are greeted with the tantalizing aromas of the food and their spices. The restaurant staff are very knowledgeable about the menu, and for those unfamiliar with Indian food, extremely patient in guiding you through the ordering process, explaining the different ingredients and preparations. Although we have found all their dishes fantastic, our favorite entree is their Chicken Tikka Masala, boneless chicken simmered in fenugreek creamy tomato sauce, onions and bell peppers. www.zaikamiami.com
Indian
(786) 409-5187
2176 NE 123rd St, North Miami, FL 33181
82
83
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39 Loba
This delightfully small and cozy Colombian restaurant is located in the MiMo area of Miami which has been recently revitalized into an extremely popular and “cool” neighborhood. Loba’s decor is very original and inviting with offbeat touches such a bar backed by shelves displaying not only bottles of wine but also books. The menu features time honored Colombian cuisine which is prepared in new and modernized ways, such as their Vincent Van Goat croquettes, made with fried goat cheese, local honey, pistachios and sea salt. Be sure to try their Ceviche which is always super fresh and served in three styles, leche de tigre, Mexican-style and cilantro aioli with mariquitas. www.lobarestaurant.com
Latin
(786) 536-6692
7420 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33138 84
85
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40
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
The Miami Design District is now an extremely popular location for new and trendy restaurants, but in 2007 when award winning chef Michael Schwartz first opened the doors of Michael’s Genuine Food & Wine, it was the very first nice dining establishment in the area, and its longevity speaks volumes about the food and atmosphere. The ambiance is laid back bistro with an open kitchen and beautiful courtyard seating with protection from the elements. The menu is large and varied with a raw bar, snacks, small, medium, large and extra large plates; in other words something for every taste and appetite. Brunch is the perfect time to try their delicious food and we would be remiss if we didn’t recommend the amazing Chicken Liver Crostini with caramelized onions. www.michaelsgenuine.com
American
(305) 573-5550
130 NE 40th St, Miami, FL 33137 86
87
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