The Hot List: Miami’s Sizzling Restaurant Scene
Food critic John Mariani helps you decide between Cuban soul food and steaks and chops in this eclectic Florida city.
Why go: The restaurant is breezy and bright inside, with a terrace that attracts a sunset crowd that comes for the cocktails and fine food.
You must try: The quality of the steaks and chops alone make this a prime destination, but a fine sampling of tartares and the seafood mix of lobster and stone crab claws give Edge instant panache.
And this: This spot has one of the best wine lists in Miami, with plenty of good bottles under USD 50.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Why go: It’s the hottest new spot on Miami Beach’s buzzing Lincoln Road. Jonas and Alexandra Milan, who own the chic Bonito in St Barths, have brought the same glamour—and attracted the same glamorous crowd—to this airy room overlooking the city.
You must try this: Any of the raw seafood dishes like hamachi espuma with yuzu kosho espuma (a spicy Japanese sauce) and cilantro, and the ceviche mix.
And this: The al fresco terrace is the place for signature cocktails and people-watching.
Photography courtesy Juvia Miami
Why go: This long-time classic Miami extravaganza was recently made more modern, more casual and more youthful, with several dining rooms and a great chef, Dewey LoSasso.
You must try: The nonpareil oak-grilled “Super Steak”
And this: One of America’s finest wine lists, with scores of labels offered by the glass from the Enomatic Wine Bar
Photography Simon Hare
Why go: Michael Schwartz kick-started a restaurant boom in the burgeoning Design District in 2007 with this luncheonette-style eatery, and it’s still one of the most popular places to eat in the city for its solid American cooking.
You must try: Crispy and spicy pork belly with kimchi, crushed peanuts and pea shoots
And this: Stop in for the best and most extensive brunch in town, with dishes such as crispy rice cake with chorizo, wood-oven-baked nine-grain pancake, Spanish tortilla and lemon ricotta pancakes.
Photography Pascal Pernix
Why go: Situated on “Calle Ocho” (8th Street), the epicentre of Miami’s Cuban community, Versailles has epitomised the rich traditions of Cuban soul food for four decades.
You must try: Fufú con masitas—mashed plantains and fried pork chunks
And this: Versailles makes one of the best Cuban sandwiches in the city, a crisp baguette stuffed with sweet ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, mustard and pickles.
Photography courtesy Versailles
While the sizzle hasn’t left Miami Beach, some of the most exciting restaurants are thriving in neighbourhoods like downtown Miami and the Design District. Sunbathe if you like, but get off the beach and dine well at these top spots.
