Huffington Post – Spots to Spice in Style
Miami Spice is the perfect time for culinary admirers to cure their curiosity. Restaurants all over the magic city offer a price-fixe lunch ($23) and dinner ($39) menu to help drive more business. Typically taking place during August and September, the annual program has been extended until October to help local businesses who were financially hurt by hurricane Irma. Not only is it an opportune time for Miami residents to try new restaurants but, it’s also ideal for tourists enamored with dining out for a deal.
This year 236 restaurants are participating to date and 40 joining for the first time. Newcomers include Bazaar Mar by the legend Jose Andres, BRAVA by James Beard Award Semifinalist Brad Kilgore, Estefan Kitchen, Fi’lia by Michael Schwartz at SLS Brickell and another brilliant Stephen Starr expansion, Upland.
Since Spice is a great chance for a test drive, we recommend going somewhere irresistibly opulent that’s easy to fall in love with. When in Miami, it’s go big or go home. There are some seriously swanky spots to spice at and we’ve narrowed down the most stylish.
Leynia
Buddakan, Katsuya and Makoto alumni Chef Jose Icardi is fusing his Argentinean background and Japanese experiences at the iconic Delano Hotel. Since this is an SBE Group prodigy, Leynia has gone above and beyond to produce an appropriately theatrical show. Expect roaming bicycles in place of dessert carts, scents from the rustic allure of an open flame grill and a personalized grill at your table (according to the dish). Glide through the same sleek white hallways Franklin Delano Rooverselt walked down to enter Leynia. Relive the glory days and gawk at the Art-Deco beauty around you and sit outside to spot action on the grill.
Miami Spice must: Matambre (stuffed flank steak)
Kiki on the River
The Greek isles recently invaded Miami River by introducing a new Mediterranean concept helmed by Milos alumni, Chef Steve Rhee. Guests are encouraged to sit on the outdoor patio and delight in a sunset surrounded by white drapes and garden greens with steel and concrete original beams and columns. Inside, the walls hang portraits of operating partner Roman Jones’ Greek family. Throughout the inspired seaside village, whitewashed walls of the rustic warehouse interior also pay homage to the original fish market that occupied the space for the last several decades. Not only does this enviable space serve some of the most refreshing and simple Mediterranean fare but, it captures one of the most desirable nightlife scenes in Miami.
Miami Spice must: Grilled octopus
Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill
Brothers Bruce and Eric Bromberg, have expanded their Blue Ribbon empire to Miami and just in time for their 25th anniversary. The duo carried the concept to the magic city by agreeing, “There is such a strong connection between New York City and Miami, and we have been looking in this area for many years. We have looked at different opportunities over the years but the Plymouth Hotel just resonated with us.” As a refreshing alternative without the Miami Beach flash, Blue Ribbon embodies a true Japanese sushi bar with a sexy and unpretentious New York feel – their omakase also happens to be one of the best in the city. Before you head into the restaurant, make a pit-stop at the hotel lobby bar to dream of your tiki bar days.
Miami Spice must: Oxtail fried rice
Pao by Paul Qui
We will use any excuse we can to visit the cultural epicenter, Faena. The visual plan was executed by Baz Luhrmann where Miami’s first luxury hotel, Saxony Hotel once sat in 1948. Located in the dome space of the architecturally stunning land the decor is a marriage between natural elements and modern sophistication. Helmed by Top Chef winner, and James Beard Award winner Chef Paul Qui, the decor fills a patterned gold leaf design on the ceiling and walls that compliment walnut wood tables, dark brown leather banquettes and mid-century style chairs with black leather seats. If this space wasn’t luxurious enough, do a double take over Damien Hirst’s gold-leaf unicorn sculpture.
Miami Spice must: Beef tartar laab
