Carnivores, prepare to be impressed by Miami’s newest dining fixtures, with two recent restaurant openings focused on meatier mains. Cocktail lovers will surely rejoice, as well, with two concepts pairing delicious food with creative tipples, be it pizza or Caribbean fare. And those with a sweet tooth will surely be enticed with our final address, known for over-the-top, Insta-friendly, locally crafted desserts.
Italica
Midtown Miami
You’re here because… you’re still happily aboard the spritz trend train, so Miami’s first spritz and pizza bar is the ideal next stop. From the team behind Negroni Bistro & Sushi Bar, Italica Midtown offers a host of Italian-influenced dining and drinking options, with the cornerstone undoubtedly the spritz bar. Choose from a host of plays on the classic Italian aperitivo ranging from mezcal and orange to rum with passion fruit and Pinot Grigio. Stop by during Golden Hour from 6 to 7 p.m. for select shots served with complimentary passed hors d’oeuvres.
You’re dining on… offerings emerging from the central pizza ovens, a focal point of the dining room. Topping options include the Diavola with nduja and roasted peppers or the flambéed Mascarpone and Shrimp pie with fennel and radicchio. Of course, if pizza’s not your jam, there are loads of other Italian dishes on offer, ranging from roasted cauliflower with bagna cauda to baked stuffed pasta shells to gnocchi with beef short rib ragu and housemade lasagna.
Wildfire by Meat N’ Bone
Key Biscayne
You’re here because… you’re taking full advantage of this open-air concept from one of the country’s premier purveyors of steak, seafood and more.
You’re dining on… a wide variety of bold offerings ranging from Colorado Wagyu carpaccio to tableside-torched Ora King salmon nigiri. Beef is the most prominent star of this menu, with filet mignon, 30-day wet-aged tomahawk and Australian wagyu tartare, among other options. For those among your party who don’t partake in red meat, the branzino with lemon sauce or creamy Champagne risotto are excellent options. Save room for dessert, and dig into arroz con leche nigiri or alcohol-infused ice creams. For a special surprise, you can also opt for the omakase, featuring the chef’s selection of some of the best steaks and sausages in the world.
Mayfair Grill
Coconut Grove
You’re here because… you’re excited to see what the two-year renovation of the new Mayfair House Hotel & Garden has brought to this local stalwart. In addition to fully renovated guest rooms and curated art, the hotel is now home to two new dining concepts, and the namesake Mayfair Grill is definitely a major draw.
You’re dining on… wood-fired cuisine inspired by the flavors of the American southwest. Think fresh local catch with smoked tomatillo and tomato salsa or Wagyu sirloin with red-eye coffee spice. Vegetarians have more than enough choice thanks to options like with wood-roasted heirloom carrots with lime crema or fire-roasted squash with slow-cooked garbanzo chili. Finish things off with churros or a fun play on s’mores, complete with spiced chocolate.
Sipsip
Coconut Grove
You’re here because… Mayfair’s second new dining concept is wholly distinct and just as exciting as the grill. The Calypso-style rooftop pool bar Sipsip takes its inspiration from the Caribbean in crafting its cocktails, menu and even its name, derived from Bahamian for “gossip.” Settle in, grab a drink and enjoy the live music in this glorious rooftop space.
You’re dining on… a host of seafood-centric specialties ranging from rock lobster cocktail with spiced Bloody Mary dressing to Bahamian conch fritters. Simple salads and a raw bar flesh out the lighter offerings, while those looking for something heartier may opt for fried oyster sliders or a jerk mahi-mahi sandwich. Choose from the bar’s extensive list of rum-based cocktails, which range from classic daiquiris and punches to more creative plays.
Hof’s House of Sweets
Fort Lauderdale
You’re here because… you grew up idolizing Willy Wonka, and now you’re ready to fulfill your wildest dreams by digging into nostalgic desserts from the team behind Hoffman’s Chocolates. This dessert destination taps into art, pop culture and music to create a homey, totally unique ambiance in which to sample Insta-worthy desserts from near and far.
You’re dining on… a selection of sweet treats ranging from candies made at Hoffman’s factories in Orlando and Greenacres to confections from further afield. Ice cream is definitely a star of this menu, with milkshakes, sundaes and floats, though you’ll also find truffles, doughnuts, fudge, waffles and more.
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