Miami Spice "Must-tries"

Miami Spice “Must-tries”

Miami Spice

August and September are very special months for local foodies, when they get a chance to explore signature dishes at reduced prices by world renowned chefs every summer. Miami Spice Months showcases the very best of Greater Miami and the Beaches’ diverse cuisine featuring three-course meals at the top eateries in the city reasonably priced at $23 for lunch/brunch and $39 for dinner. Here are some of our favorite places to take advantage of the delicious deal:

El Tucán

El Tucan Miami — Spicy Ginger Filet Mignon

The vibe: This Brickell Restaurant and Lounge impresses guests before they even take a bite. The decor is a blend of tropical and modern elegance. With screens adorning the walls that show gorgeous displays to fit the mood. But don’t expect a quite night, this multi-sensory dining experience provides exquisite taste, along with sights and sounds. Complete with performances and live DJs to keep the high-energy going.

The food: El Tucán features a sophisticated twist on Asian-inspired specialties. Their Miami Spice Dinner Menu allows you to get a peek at their sushi with the Two-Timing Tuna Roll (avocado, cucumber). The Wood Grilled Filet of Branzino (green chili ginger) is also a must for seafood lovers. But the star of the entrées has to be the Spicy Ginger Filet Mignon (wafu garlic, red amaranth, micro cilantro). The sauce is mild with a slight kick, and can only be described as “divine”. But you might want to make room for dessert… As your choice of Sorbet or Raspberry Cheesecake are presented beautifully in a bowl of ice and fruit.

Off the menu: The following items are not on the Miami Spice menu but absolutely worth it specially after saving on a delectable three-course meal. And who can say no to cocktails at such a lively atmosphere? The boozy Tropical Samurai $16 (Soto Sake, Ginger Liquor, Mango Purée, Raspberries, Vanilla Extract, Cilantro) is a favorite. But the Virgin Margarita let me behave without feeling like I was missing out. The Miami Spice entrées, though filling, don’t include sides and it should be a sin to leave without trying the Truffle Mac and Cheese $21 (Shaved Black Truffle).

ADDiKT at W Miami

The vibe: ADDiKT is located inside W Miami (Brickell), on the 15th floor. Even as you enter, the view of the Biscayne Bay and buildings is phenomenal. Wether you’re catching a romantic sunset or the twinkling city lights. The ambiance is elegant but playful and modern with hints of pop-art throughout.

The food: Helmed by award-winning Chef Christian Quiñones, ADDiKT’s Miami Spice Menu is an ode to favorites from his childhood in Puerto Rico. With latin-focused dishes like Skirt Steak Salsa Verde and Arroz con Pollo. And global fusions like the Burrata with Smoked Mango and Cilantro Dressing for a tropical twist. My favorite from the Miami Spice Lunch Menu has to be an appetizer, the Short Rib Croquettes (Confit garlic and parsley aioli, parmesan). Just imagine biting into the softest, cheesiest, creamiest meat you could find wrapped in a crunchy outer shell of breadcrumbs.

Coming close in second place is the Brownie Sundae (Dark chocolate brownie, peanut butter ice cream, salted caramel, banana brûlée, crunchy pearls). Despite being a huge fan of chocolate desserts I’ve been trying to avoid them, in hopes of being more adventurous. If that’s also your case then I wouldn’t fear this one. Though the chocolate is deep and dark, a myriad of flavors dance in your mouth with each bite. The nutty and refreshing ice cream, the salty caramel and surprisingly custardy banana brûlée. However I’d say the absolute “must-try” is also an appetizer, but on the Miami Spice Dinner Menu. The Strawberry Field Salad (Truffle whipped ricotta, heirloom tomatoes, candied pecans, strawberry, sorrel, balsamic vinaigrette) has made me, as the name of the restaurant implies, ADDiKTED.

Bâoli

The vibe: Bâoli Miami Restaurant & Lounge is located in the heart of Miami Beach, right on Collins Ave. Like El Tucán, it offers a sense of celebration beyond traditional dining. Both are conceptualized by Mr.Hospitality, a company that owns and operates restaurants and nightlife destinations, so it’s no surprise that they encompass both. I specially love the outdoor area where you can drink, eat, and smoke hookah under the stars and twinkling patio lights.

The food: We tried the Miami Spice Dinner Menu and were thrilled with every option. Raw fish lovers will enjoy the Poké Bowl (Salmon, Tuna, Bubu Arare, Rice, Wakame) and Tuna Tart (Tuna Sashimi, Crispy Tortilla, Truffle Mayo, Red Onion, Cilantro) for appetizers. But if I had to pick I’d go with the innovative Tuna Tart. This sashimi “pizza” is just the right amount of spicy with a lot of truffle flavor. Though our favorite starter is definitely the Crispy Shrimp Tempura (Ebi Shrimp, Shishito Peppers, Cherry Tomatoes).

For entrées you have the choice of Mushroom Risotto (acquerello organic rice, shiitake & enoki mushroom) and Wagyu Beef (Yamaki Sauce, Micro Salad). Or the dearest to my heart and stomach, the Salmon Yakitori (Rocoto Sauce and Pepper).

Off the menu: Start the party with fun cocktails like the Spicy Paloma (tanteo jalapeño infused tequila, passion-fruit puree, grapefruit, fresh lemon juice, dehydrated jalapeños and sprinkled with cayenne pepper), and pair your meal with sides such as the mouth-watering Truffle Mashed Potato $15. Or my favorite, the Robata Grilled Asparagus $12.

Phuc Yea

The vibe: Phuc Yea is located in the heart of Miami’s MiMo District. Built in the former Sir Williams Hotel, the decor is a mix of industrial with traditional Asian accents and street art. The space is separated into a lush lobby lounge, anchored by a 15′ raw bar just at the main entrance of the space perfectly set for oysters and cocktails. A speakeasy-esque dining room with private dining zones located in the mezzanine level. And during the cooler months the Lantern Garden in the rear patio. Also, the word “Phuc” means “blessings and prosperity”, so let’s get “Phuced Up”!

The food: Dig into Viet-Cajun flavors that are vibrant, bold, and layered. Though each Miami Spice Dinner Menu item we tried was delicious, we’re specially thrilled about the vegetarian options that let those plant-based join in on the fun! Like the refreshing Watermelon Ceviche (watermelon, tomato, herbage, crispy shallot, kaffir lime, nuoc cham) and Veggie Curry (broccoli, exotic shrooms, baby bok choy, potato, scallion, tofu). Though carnivores will be equally pleased with options like the Duck A L’Orange (roasted half o’duck, orange hoisin glaze, herbage, steamed bao buns), Caramel Cod (cast iron cooked, nuoc cham caramel, scallion, roasted banana), and my fave, the Crispy Local Salt N’ Peppa Shrimp (salt n’ peppa, sriracha remoulade, cilantro, scallion). But make sure to leave some room for Coconut Panna Cotta (passion fruit, mint, sesame, puffed rice).

$19 Beverage Pairing: For only $19 you can pair a beverage with each course of your meal. Start off with frozé for the first course, followed by your choice of white or red wine, and a digestif shot to end the feast.

The Deck at Island Gardens

The vibe: With a prime waterfront location, The Deck at Island Gardens caters to those who enjoy wining, dining and dancing outdoors, while offering panoramic views of Downtown Miami, Biscayne Bay, and some of the world’s largest mega-yachts docked at the marina. The scenic venue offers a charming ambiance of relaxed luxury throughout. With a breezy design to give guests the ultimate Miami experience while enjoying Miami’s finest cuisine.

The food: Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with dishes like Grilled Octopus (served in a sizzling skillet, with salmoriglio sauce and lemon) and Herb Marinated Lamb Chops (with fresh oregano and rosemary, extra virgin olive oil, homemade fries). Though you must try the Pear Ravioli (pear and gorgonzola cheese, finished with black truffle cream sauce)! I’m not a fan of pears and never thought it’d go well with pasta… But this dish is a creamy, mildly sweet, cheesy delight. End dinner on a sweet note with the Bread Pudding (with raspberry puree drops and chocolate shavings).

Drink up!: Though not included in the Miami Spice menu, these cocktails are absolutely worth a try. For those who like it sweet, I’d go with the White Pearl Martini $19 (Vodka, Chambord, lychee juice, white cranberry juice, with lychee fruit). Or the The Bowline $17 (Vodka, Falernum, blackberry jalapeño syrup, lemon juice, blackberries to top) for those who prefer a spicy kick!

AD LIB

The vibe: AD LIB is a chef-driven restaurant located in Coral Gables rooted in authenticity and home of the pleasantly unexpected. Short for ad libitum. Means spontaneously, without prior practice or just unrestrained. The interiors are designed with a coastal feel of soft white and blues, texture walls and lighting accents reminiscent of the ’60s.

The food: The menu is created with a philosophy of sustainability. Responsibly sourcing local ingredients. Start lunch with Jalapeño and Corn Fritters (jamon Serrano, manchego fondue), and end it with Butterscotch Budino (Bing Cherry Conserve, Scottish Shortbread), which is also available for dinner. Highlights from that menu include the Royal Red Shrimp (Serrano cilantro broth, shaved radish, pickled onion, sour apple) and the Grilled Heritage Ossabaw Pork Chop (white turnip, gold bar squash, apricot chutney).

The Jim and Neesie

The vibe: The Jim and Neesie, is located in the lobby of Generator Miami. The intimate dining room and bar offers cocktails and comforting American cuisine driven by Chef Daniel Roy’s ingredient-inspired dishes from Sunday through Thursday. The space has a loft-like appearance. With dim light, brick walls, and curious accents that give it a vintage feel.

The food: The Hamachi Tartare (shiitake soy ginger dressing, avocado, puffed quinoa) sure won’t disappoint. But the Charred Asparagus (crispy poached egg, truffle yuzu, marcona almonds, pickled spring onion) has to be the winner. It baffles me how the outside of the poached egg can be fried to crispy perfection… While leaving the inside runny enough to soak the asparagus. For entrees, you can’t go wrong with the slightly fiery Cacio E Pepe (house made fettuccine, summer black truffle, spicy crumbs, lemon zest). Or the Crackling Salmon (sunchoke hash, crispy pork belly, dill emulsion, caper espuma). There’s also four options for dessert, including Banana Bread (white chocolate, spiced pecans, vanilla ice)!