5 minute read
Savor Paradise
Flavorful fusions and imaginative gastronomy soar thanks to the masterful execution of chefs who create a unique culinary landscape to satisfy and inspire.
By Gianna Nolte
Masterfully Chic
With its flagship location on the famous Las Vegas Strip, CHICA by Chef Lorena Garcia was already the talk of international foodies before opening its doors in Miami’s Historic MiMo District in November 2019. Dishes here are crafted around the Venezuelan-born chef’s signature Latin and South American cuisine. The new location features a chic, jungle-inspired interior of stunning earth tones and natural textures that set the scene for your stylish lunch, a romantic dinner for two or weekend brunch with the girls. The opulent yet modern setting feels both warm and current, and its cool ambience invites diners to toast with handcrafted cocktails like the tequila-mezcal, infused Double Trouble before exploring a dynamic menu of delectable dishes and smoked favorites prepared over the wood fire grill that CHICA calls “the beating heart” of its kitchen. No matter which standout item you choose to dig into — from mouthwatering, vegetarian Maitake Mushroom Tacos to smoky Lamb Barbacoa — Chef Garcia’s passion yields a fresh and original dining experience.
Yarbird/50 Eggs, Inc.
Southern Charm
While Yardbird Southern Table & Bar has been a Miami favorite for Southern comfort cuisine for nearly ten years, it has “hatched” into other cities since its 2011 debut, including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Dallas and internationally, in Singapore. There’s also a location planned in Washington, D.C.
The Miami-born concept, which is inspired by founder and CEO John Kunkel’s Southern upbringing, is best known for its effortless mastery of Southern hospitality and the celebration of farm-fresh, from-scratch cooking. Guests can enjoy mouthwatering Southern comfort classics with modern spins, including staples like Lewellyn’s Fine Fried Chicken, Buttermilk Biscuits, Macaroni & Cheese, a hailed bourbon selection, as well as popular brunch favorites like Chicken ’N’ Watermelon ’N’ Waffles and the Low Country Crab Cake Benedict.
Fresh Catch
After leaving Cuba for the coast of Miami, the Garcia brothers had one goal: to work their way to the top and open their very own seafood business. They both saved enough money earned from local fishing jobs and opened a fresh fish market, processing plant and wholesaler, which would eventually evolve into Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market in 1966. After 48 years in business, Garcia’s has earned a reputation for its locally sourced fare. With its own fleet venturing off the coast of Florida each morning out of this Miami River location, García’s guarantees that its seafood selection — from stone crabs to fresh Florida lobster — is top-notch.
From the mainland and back to Miami Beach, Prime Fish — part of the Myles Restaurant Group that also includes the legendary Prime 112, Prime Italian and Big Pink — offers guests an unbeatable seafood selection. Located on Collins Avenue, just a block from the famed “Prime Corner,” this cozy spot is a favorite for weekend brunch thanks to its bottomless mimosas, Bellinis, Prosecco and Bloody Mary cocktails that pair with its extensive buffet selection.
Kalamata Mediterranean Cuisine
Global Flavor
When you’re in Miami, your European culinary adventures don’t require a passport.
A glass-enclosed veranda complete with oceaninspired elements and breathtaking views of the Atlantic makes for the perfect dinner at Scarpetta by Scott Conant. Housed inside the glamorous Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel, Scarpetta soars to the pinnacle of Italian cuisine with a menu that spans from primi piatti (first dishes), to its lineup of pesce (fish), carne (meat) and pasta, all served according to regional Italian traditions.
Drawing its inspiration from Greece, Italy and beyond is Kalamata, an unpretentious, inviting spot right on Miami Beach’s Washington Avenue that will transport you to the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Delve into casual fare of lean protein, fresh produce and more, including zesty tzatziki, baked falafel, tabbouleh and delectable gyros.
When In Wynwood…
Transformed from dilapidated warehouse district into Miami’s boldest art district, the neighborhood of Wynwood has painted a rightful place for itself on Miami’s culinary canvas. Whether you’re scoping out the newest art gallery or wandering in and out of its funky shops, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Taste your way through a number of spots, including Kush by Lokal, an eco-friendly gastropub selling eclectic dishes and craft beer. 1-800-LUCKY is a super-chill industrial food hall featuring seven distinctive mini Asian eateries. Meanwhile, Astra is a rooftop space where cocktail sipping and Miami skyline gazing go hand in hand with light bites and mingling among an eclectic and attractive crowd.
Healthy Bites
For those who are on the go, Carrot Express is a haven for health-conscious foodies looking for simple, well-balanced fare. With locations in Midtown, Downtown, Aventura, Miami Beach and Miracle Mile, health aficionados all over Miami rave about the originality of its menu, which includes a Shaved Brussels Sprout Kale Salad, Vegan Sausage Bowl, Paradise Açaí Bowl and more.
Patricia Oelsen always knew that “beach” and “healthy” went together perfectly. And so, her vision of a healthy-eating sanctuary right on the beach came to life right on Fifth Street. A cozy spot founded on love, community and wholesome bites, Under the Mango Tree exudes positivity, healing and an irresistible down-to-earth vibe that makes guests feel right at home. Lovely potted plants, rustic furniture and earth tones make up this intimate space with its clean, healthy menu of organic juices and cleanses, açaí bowls and vegan items that beckon visitors to grab a Green Peace Juice or a Pink Dragon Smoothie and stay a while.
Founded by husband-wife duo, Omer and Jennifer Horev, Pura Vida Miami has expanded from its original small shop on Washington Avenue to five locations. Its impeccable décor of crisp whites and light-washed woods is as refreshing and inviting as its selection of nutrient-rich smoothies, protein bowls, all-day breakfast items and more.
