Spice up your Life

DINING

SPICE UP
Your Life

By Jenny Starr Perez

Elevate Your PALATE With These Trendy Restaurants Making Their Miami Spice Debut.

Scorching temperatures aren’t the only defining characteristic of summer in Miami. As the season heats up, so does Miami’s culinary scene with the much – anticipated return of Miami Spice. From August 1 to September 30, food enthusiasts can indulge in three – course meals at the city’s top restaurants for a fraction of the usual price — $30/$35 for lunch/br unch and $45/$60 for dinner. This annual dining program, spearheaded by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, not only showcases Miami’s diverse culinary landscape but also offers a unique opportunity to explore new dining spots. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exciting participants making their debut in Miami Spice 2024.

Elastika

Under the creative direction of Executive Chef Joe Anthony, Elastika offers a global approach to modern American cuisine. Serving both lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, the restaurant’s Miami Spice menu highlights include Tomato Gazpacho, Roasted Ora King Salmon, and Herb Roasted Green Circle Chicken for lunch, and Aged Kingfish Crudo, Miso Marinated Grilled Bavette Steak, and Spice Seared Diver Scallops for dinner. Lunch is available for $35, while dinner is priced at $60.

Courtesy of Elastika

Casadonna

Nestled in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, Casadonna brings a slice of coastal Italy to Biscayne Bay. This collaboration between Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality offers expansive al fresco dining and bar seating with stunning waterfront views. Casadonna’s menu features fresh local and Italian-imported ingredients, a comprehensive crudo bar, bespoke cocktails, and an extensively curated wine cellar. Diners can enjoy dinner Sunday through Thursday for $60 per person, savoring the spirit of seaside dolce vita.

Photo by Christian Gonzalez

Mirabella

Opened in October 2023 by Chef Michael White, Mirabella is located in the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Known for its exceptional coastal Italian cuisine, the restaurant boasts a diverse menu reflecting Italy’s rich culinary heritage. With outdoor dining offering breathtaking views of Miami, Mirabella’s ambiance is as captivating as its cuisine. Enjoy a $60 dinner Sunday through Thursday, making it an ideal spot for an unforgettable dining experience.

Photo by Moris Moreno

Pastis

Bringing a taste of Paris to Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, Pastis offers iconic French fare in a setting that transports guests to the streets of Paris. Unique to its Miami location, Pastis features a spacious outdoor garden and courtyard. During Miami Spice, enjoy lunch for $35 Monday through Friday or dinner for $45 Sunday through Thursday.

Courtesy of STARR Restaurants.

Motek

A beloved spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Motek features must-try dishes like the award-winning Arayes Burger, Shakshuka, and Middle Eastern Dumplings. Complemented by a vibrant new cocktail menu, Motek promises a lively dining experience. Lunch is available Monday through Friday for $35, with dinner pricing to be determined.

Courtesy of Motek

Stubborn Seed

From “Top Chef” winner Chef Jeremy Ford, Stubborn Seed in South of Fifth offers a Michelin-starred dining experience. The inventive menu of rotating dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients provides a unique culinary adventure. Enjoy the Chef’s Tasting Menu of eight courses for $60 per person, Sunday through Thursday.

Courtesy of Grove Bay Hospitality

The Amalfi Llama

Frequented by soccer legend Lionel Messi, The Amalfi Llama blends rustic live-fire steakhouse allure with traditional Italian and Argentinian cuisine. Located in the Esplanade at Aventura, the restaurant offers a $60 three-course dinner menu daily and a $35 weekend lunch menu. Highlights include Short Rib Empanadas, Truffle Tagliatelle, and Fire-Roasted Cheesecake.

Courtesy of The Amalfi Llama

Delilah Miami

Experience the luxury of Delilah Miami, a modern-day supper club with a 1920s-inspired ambiance. Located in Brickell, Delilah offers an opulent Miami Spice dinner menu on select days, featuring dishes like Wagyu Carpaccio, Roasted Chicken, and Key Lime Pie. Dinner is Tuesday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Miami Spice 2024 is the perfect opportunity to explore these new culinary gems and indulge in the rich flavors that define Miami’s dining scene. Make your reservations early and prepare for a memorable gastronomic journey. For more information, visit www.miamiandbeaches.com

DINING