Exploring Miami’s Classic Culinary Delights: A Food Lover’s Guide to the City’s Best
Miami, the vibrant heart of South Florida, has always been known for its dazzling art scene but this year, there's more to explore beyond the contemporary art and hipster hotels. The city's culinary landscape is witnessing a renaissance, with a series of classic eateries and new hotspots making waves. From Brickell to Sunny Isles, let's embark on a gastronomic journey through Miami's most iconic dining destinations.
Casadonna: Italian Riviera Vibes in Miami’s Historic Woman’s Club David Grutman's Groot Hospitality, in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality, has reimagined a space in Miami's historic Woman’s Club into Casadonna. This Italian Riviera-inspired restaurant serves a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. The space, designed by Ken Fulk, reflects a blend of gold and greenery, paying homage to the room’s historic past.
Pastis in Wynwood: A Touch of France Under the Miami Sun Keith McNally, a name synonymous with New York's bustling restaurant scene, has brought his magic to South Florida with Pastis in Wynwood. Opened in April, Pastis presents a menu brimming with Escoffier-esque classics like duck à l’orange and Dover sole à la meunière. The ambiance is far from a traditional Lyonnaise bouchon; imagine dining under globe lights with rustic wood furniture, surrounded by an airy garden.
Rao’s Miami Beach: A Slice of New York in Loews Miami Beach Rao's, an iconic New York eatery known for its clubby vibe and Italian cuisine, has opened its doors in Miami Beach. Their new outpost at Loews Miami Beach offers not just their signature meatballs and Sunday gravy, but also adds a Miami twist with a seafood tower and fresh catch of the day. The decor is a blend of classic and contemporary, maintaining Rao's essence with a Miami-style uplift.
Tala Beach: Mediterranean Vibes at 1 Hotel South Beach Finally, Tala Beach at 1 Hotel South Beach is the new, Mediterranean-inspired beach club. The reimagined space boasts daybeds, outdoor bars, and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying cocktails like the Santorini Sunrise.
Amelia’s 1931: Where Latin Meets Asian Cuisine Tucked behind a defunct dry cleaner, Amelia's 1931 offers a surprising fusion of Latin and Asian cuisines. Chef Eileen Andrade has transformed this space into a retro dining paradise, complete with a speak-easy vibe and a menu that features delights like gochujang paella and arroz con pato.
Tablé by Antonio Bachour: A Pastry Chef's Parisian Dream Antonio Bachour, celebrated for his pastry skills, has launched Tablé in the Design District. This Parisian-style brasserie blends French and Middle Eastern flavors with dishes like chilled lobster Andalouse and avocado hummus. The ambiance strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Brasserie Laurel: French Elegance at Miami Worldcenter At the base of Miami Worldcenter’s Caoba tower lies Brasserie Laurel, a creation of Ariete Hospitality Group and Michelin-starred chef Michael Beltran. The menu is an ode to French classics, featuring caviar, frog legs, and escargot. The setting complements the exquisite menu, ensuring a sophisticated dining experience.
In Miami, the adage "everything old is new again" rings especially true. These culinary havens, blending classic charm with modern twists, are testaments to the city's evolving and vibrant food scene. Whether you're a local foodie or a visiting gourmet, these spots are not to be missed on your next Miami adventure.
