If you’re new here chances are you haven’t met my inner fat girl. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Leslie and I’m a foodie.
I find this crazy to say, but eight years ago I wrote a blog post entitled “Foodie Heaven” about my experiences with the South Beach restaurant scene. Needless to say, I have been way beyond overdue for a Part 2. For one, more than half the restaurants I reviewed no longer exist. More importantly, many other dope restaurants are worthy of a Golden Life Musing.
On my most recent trip to Miami Beach, I ventured off the beaten path of my go-to restaurants in the heart of SoBe and boy am I glad I did! Here are six new restaurants to check out the next time you’re in town that are sure to delight your foodie senses too.
Before I hop into those, it’s worth noting that I did return to my all-time favorite KYU, which recently reopened after a nearly 18-month closure due to a remodel. This hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Wynwood neighborhood in Miami, is a must-visit! My Golden Life Musing review from 2019 says it all. You’re welcome.
Oceanside Hotel Tavern: This quaint, American fare restaurant across the street from my home for the week in the mid-beach area of Miami Beach quickly became my Cheers. I stumbled upon it on my way to Starbucks one morning and the rest was history. My first meal was a simple shrimp scampi with a side of roasted vegetables, but the taste was anything but simple. I devoured every single bite. The brunch menu caught my eye the following day and the salmon benedict did not disappoint. I kept going back and inviting others, which allowed me to try more delectable items on the menu including the mussels in garlic wine sauce and the healthy but appetizing power bowl. It’s also worth noting that the excellent service (despite bad reviews) and adorable patio perfect for people-watching also contributed to my adoration of this little restaurant.
Silverlake Bistro: This unassuming American fare bistro located in the Miami Beach neighborhood of Normandy Isles has a little something for any foodie. But if you’re a cheeseburger lover, you’ve found your home. My mom, who’s a bit of a cheeseburger connoisseur, got me hooked and I haven’t looked back. Everything about this traditional smash burger cooked to order is delightful, including the special sauce. Paired with the truffle fries, it’s nothing short of perfection. The Brussels sprouts simply prepared with a bit of sriracha, aioli, and chives were absolutely delicious. This restaurant is tiny, but the food packs a powerful punch!
Limoncello: This delightful authentic Italian restaurant in the heart of South Beach had me at lemon. I love just about everything lemon-inspired or flavored so this restaurant quickly became a favorite. Considering seabass is my absolute favorite fish, when I heard the catch of the day was branzino, my choice was clear. The preparation of the catch of the day was top-notch. As the branzino is cooked in a large crust of sea salt, they bring the whole fish out to the table for a big reveal presentation involving fire, alcohol, spoons, and knives. It was all very fancy and I was here for all of it! In addition to the delicious fare, the energy and vibe of this place was very lively and welcoming. Tip: Sit outside. The inside is nowhere near as charming as the outdoor eating area.
Salt Cafe: This delightful, vibrant restaurant also in the heart of South Beach does not just have good food, it is also perfect for people-watching. The charming outdoor patio has abundant seating and fans that make it comfortable to sit outside. Admittedly, I was not happy about brunch ending at noon, but the mushroom truffle pizza made up for it all. In a word, it was delectible. Considering that I had my mouth set on the crabcake benedict with spinach, a return visit is necessary!
Tanuki South Beach: Admittedly, this modern Asian restaurant was my least favorite of all the new restaurants, but there were some bright spots here! As they specialized in sushi, of course we had to try two of the sushi dishes – the dynamite crab roll (which surprisingly was served warm) and the truffled yellowtail. I enjoyed them both, but there were mixed reviews at the table. The rock shrimp and the Brussels sprouts were the best on the menu, with the butterfly chicken wings coming in second, prepared with an Asian glaze. The grilled corn with shisito butter looked and sounded promising but fell flat unfortunately, as it lacked flavor. The chocolate molten cake made up for it, as it was arguably the best tasting dish we tried.
Michael’s Genuine: I saved the best for last, but a warning. Do not visit this restaurant if you are pinching pennies. Let me just say I’m grateful for rich friends! Every single bite I had at this restaurant located in the delightful Design District of Miami was absolutely delicious. Their website says that they provide fresh seasonal ingredients and warm hospitality, which could not be more accurate. I recommend if you are going with friends do family style so you can taste as many items as possible. I didn’t think I could have a truffle mushroom pizza that was any better than Salt Cafe, but I was pleasantly proven wrong. Other dishes to try include the tuna carpaccio, spiced lamb & charred eggplant (served as a hummus consistency), and the roasted cauliflower shawarma. Even the craft cocktails and desserts were top notch…Chef’s kiss!
Golden Life Musings 