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Victoria Pesce Elliott makes a career of eating and drinking. In addition to reviewing Miami restaurants for The Herald, she is a contributing editor for the South Florida Zagat Survey and a member of the U.S. Sommelier Association board of directors. She writes for a number of national magazines including Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, Executive Travel and Wine & Spirits. She was raised in an Italian family who taught her the value of good food and wine.
Submitted by Barbara from Miami Beach
Q: Can you recommend any place to have drinks and a light meal near the Arsht Center? We are attending the Opera which is over at 11pm on a Thursday night. Several of my friends are driving from different directions so we wanted to go somewhere close after the Opera.
Answered 04/16/08 13:54:59 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: One of the best places I can suggest within walking distance is Bin 18 (275 NE 18th St., 786-235-7575) where you can get fantastic Mediterranean food at very reasonable prices. The chef Alfredo Patino was top toque at The Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove before opening this modest but recommendable newcomer. I also suggest calling for a reservation since the under-the-radar spot is getting better known all the time. Check out the website for a full menu: bin18miami.com. If you want to drive just a couple of dozen blocks north to the Design District, consider Michael's Genuine Food & Drink (130 NE 40th St. 305-573-5550) where the ever-changing offerings always include a mix of lovely imports and lots of organic and local products, too. Or, Brosia (163 NE 39 St., 305-572-1400; brosiamiami.com), another delicious Mediterranean hotspot with gorgeous outdoor seating under hundred year old White oaks and expertly prepared meals by chef Arthur Antiles.Submitted by Reinaldo Romo from Miami, Florida
Q: Victoria: I was involved with Romo, the Restaurant at 1444 S. W. 8th Street in Little Havana. I am no longer affiliated with the restaurant and have not been there since October 2007. There have been several attempts to continue without me trying a different concept, etc. The restaurant still bears my name and I see that people have been telling you that they have been there and it is nothing like you described and the menu is way off of what ROMO, the restaurant used to serve. I am in the process of looking for another location to open up ROMO, the restaurant again the way it should be opened and how people remember it was when I was there. I will keep you posted when I open the doors again.
Answered 03/26/08 09:22:04 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Dear Reinaldo: Thanks so much for the heads up. Please do let me know when you find a new spot. I will look forward to dining with you again. Best of luck,Submitted by Melissa Adams from Washington DC
Q: Hi Patty, I am hosting a dinner for a group of 12 CEOs and Wall St. types in May. I am looking for excellent food, ideally within walking distance of the Lowe's Hotel in South Beach. Want it to be special but not too pretentious and outdoor dining and/or a fun vibe would be a plus.
Answered 03/26/08 09:19:18 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Dear Melissa: Though it does not offer outdoor dining (which you may not really want in May anyway when the average humidity is over 80 percent), Nobu in the Shore Club (1901 Collins Ave., 305-695-3232) should be exactly what you are looking for. The scene is always happening and the food exquisite. Prices are a bit out of hand but it sounds like that is not an issue. My backup would be the very cool Table 8 (1458 Ocean Drive., 305-695-4114), where chef Govind Armstrong does wonderful things, especially with local seafood. Both are walking distance from the Loews and should impress even the most jaded banker type.Submitted by DEBORAH from MIAMI BEACH, FLORDIA
Q: VICTORIA CAN YOU SUGGEST A COUPLE OF RESTURANTS IN THE MIAMI AREA FOR A SURPRISE SATURDAY LUNCH/BABY SHOWER FOR ABOUT 20 PEOPLE, THAT IS ALSO KID FRIENDLY,NICE FOOD AND WON'T BREAK THE BANK? ANY ADVICE WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
Answered 03/02/08 15:07:03 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Dear Deborah: When you say the Miami area do you actually mean The City of Miami? If so, two excellent and reasonably priced options come to mind. Canela Cafe (5132 Biscayne Blvd., 305-756-3930) is a great spot whose young owners are eager to please with tasty tapas and a Spanish/Latin menu. Similarly, Uva 69(6900 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-9022) is a cheery spot (though mostly outdoor seating) with hip servers who are also super friendly to kids. A pricier option would be Michy's across the street. Though it is not usually open for lunch they might be willing to do a special event. Give them a call at 305-759-2001.Submitted by Enrique from Madrid
Q: I live in Madrid and I would be travelling to Miami in one month. According to you, what are the top 5 restaurants in Miami? No matter style, concept or price. Thank you very much
Answered 03/02/08 14:59:04 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Enrique: How about I give you six? A bonus! Sardinia on South Beach for its excellent antipasti, salads, pastas and wines, The Palme d'or at The Biltmore for its exquisite French fare and fine service, Michael's Genuine Food & Drink for its incredibly delicious and not overwrought food, especially the local seafood; Michy's for its lively vibe and fun parade of small plates; Hiro's Yakko San for the best Japanese food in town, especially their tempura and finally the brand new Michael Mina in the Fairmont Turnberry Resort. Have a great time and feel free to write in again for more input.Submitted by Gilda from Miami, FL
Q: I need to find a nice restaurant for a wedding rehearsal dinner for July 25, 2008. The parents of the groom are from out of town and they are inviting all their relatives that are coming for the wedding besides the wedding party. (about 60 to 65 people). In December they saw St Michael and they liked it, but it closed!. In January they came and we found that the City Cellar had a private room and it could hold the whole group. Now that one has closed too! They went to Diego's and it is too loud. Las Palmas is too small and also has live music that would make conversation imposible. What can you recommend, in the Gables area (the out of town guests are staying at the Westin)that would be appropiate? That can seat so many people, that won't be too loud and that has good service and food? AnaCapri in the Gables has a second story private room but no elevators and we have elderly people and maybe a wheelchair bound person. Thank you, Gilda Harden
Answered 03/02/08 14:50:49 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Wow, Gilda. How frustrating. They should be very happy at Graziano's (394 Giralda 305-774-3599), an excellent, upscale Argentine restaurant with predictably wonderful steaks but also a full menu and a fantastic wine list. Best of all, they have a lovely private room that should be able to accommodate the whole crew. Best of luck.Submitted by Paula from Coral Gables, FL
Q: Hi Victoria, this isn't really a question but a comment regarding the cheese course question you received. I recently dined at the soon-to-open Fratelli Lyon in the Design District and it will have cheeses on its menu.
Answered 03/02/08 14:41:58 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Hi, Paula: That's great news. Thanks! Last time I stopped by Fratelli Lyon by the talented Ken Lyon at 4141 NE 2nd Ave. it was still not open. I will be back soon. I still remember fondly his old Lyon Frére on LIncoln Road. The Design District sure is getting interesting.Submitted by Ron from Gulfport, MS.
Q: For years when I came to Miami I would go to sunday brunch at a place called Sundays by the Bay, I was there last in Dec 2005 and the place was closed due to a bad storm that damaged the place. Called there phone number I found by google today and it said it was still disconnected. Did they open back up? If not can you recomend a place that had the same water view with boats and good sunday brunch. Or if Sundays is planning to re open...THANKS
Answered 02/21/08 21:12:00 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Hey, Ron: I remember Sundays for their fun reggae parties, but, alas, they are no more. Also on Key Biscayne with spectacular views in The Rusty Pelican (3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, 305-361-3818). Their popular Sunday brunch buffet comes with unlimited mimosas or champagne. They the big display with omelette stations, pastas, seafood and more. The price is $29.99 But, be sure food is not the main attraction, the view is. I'd be curious how you make out. See my other posts about Barchetta and The Lido Spa at The Standard for other restaurants with awesome views.Submitted by Dano from Warren, NJ
Q: Five life long friends and I are from NY area and turning 50 this year. We have selected South Beach as our destination to celebrate. (It was New Orleans at 40!). We're looking for a mix of local flavor, Cuban, Tapas, etc., and up scale dining of any sorts. We're also interested in night spots/hot spots/bars etc. We are not locked into South Beach and are willing to travel for the right mix. In general, we're looking to have a great 4 days with great friends, great food and great entertainment. We would also be intertested in charter fishing opportunities and or other entertainment opportunities. Our trip is planned May 28, 2008- June 1, 2008. (we're staying at the Beacon) Not too hot & muggy we hope. Your expertise and input is valued and appreciated. (FYI, we're all straight, if that matters in your suggestions). Thank you in advance for your response.
Answered 02/20/08 03:06:22 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Well, I can't do anything about the hot and muggy weather that time of year. But as for fun and food, try the following: Prime one Twelve for a night of South Beach decadence, Nobu for the best sushi you have ever had, Sardinia for a lively locals lunch, Puerta Sagua for old school Cuban diner fare. Speaking of Cuban, you may want to take a drive to Little Havana to sample the incredible tropical fare at El Palacio de los Jugos and tour the area. See Domino Park and have a coffee at Versailles. Do book one night at Arturo Sandoval's jazz club at the Deauville Hotel for smokin live music and decent food--mostly fried bar snacks. Stone crabs are not in season then, so skip Joe's or any other stone crab spot and go fish for your own catch. Or, try Scotty's Landing for great fish sandwiches and a real taste of old Miami. Do troll Lincoln Road on a weekend night for some great eye candy. I am not so up on the night life scene. You should ask my colleague Lesley Abravenal. Have a great time. You are all straight, but are you single? That does make a difference. I'll send over friends! Have fun.Submitted by Munkyjam from Aventura
Q: Any good restaurants in Aventura? I hate to drive to South Beach.
Answered 02/20/08 02:53:05 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: I don't blame you. Between the parking and the traffic a night can be ruined before you ever get to your destination. You can get great food in and around Aventura at Chef Allen's, Hiro's Yakko-San, Thai House II, Pilar, Timo and the very delicious Bourbon Steak at Turnberry Isle without the hassle of South Beach.Submitted by Luis Linares from miami, Fl
Q: This is not a question, just a little advise, please update your dinning reviews, because last week I went to a restaurant based on your review, and the place still had the same name, but the menu was way off. And this week it's the review section again. The name of the place is Romo The Restaurant in little Havana.
Answered 02/20/08 01:30:05 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Thank you. Yes, I heard they had sold. How was it?Submitted by Anonymous from Miami Florida
Q: I dined At Joley in The Hotel Astor. The food and service was amazing. I enjoyed 3 courses of Black Truffles from The Chef John Suley. The menu and wine list are priced accordinly not the typical South Beach restaraunt. This is a hidden gem. Have you been there yet?
Answered 02/20/08 01:29:11 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Yes, I have been a couple of times so far. I like it a lot. Service is also very professional. Thanks for the tip.Submitted by Anonymous from Miami, Florida
Q: Can you please recommend an upscale restaurant (price is not an issue) we love High end South Beach, in Broward, we are attending an event at the Broward Center of the Performing Arts. An email reply is appreciated!
Answered 02/13/08 15:05:23 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: One of my favorites in that area is Himarshee Bar & Grill (210 SW 2nd St., 954-524-1818; www.himarshee.com) for really excellent seafood and steaks. The setting is lively (a bit loud) and service is first rate. Sunfish Grill (2761 E Oakland Park Blvd., 954-564-6464; www.sunfishgrill.com) is also top-notch where Tony SIndaco puts out an awesome spread of seafood.Submitted by Patty from Miami, Fl.
Q: On 1/23/08 Nelly asked a question about a good restaurant with a show... I just had a birthday and my husband and some friends took me to the Mai Kai in Fort Lauderdale. I thought it would be a cheezy place and I really doubted the food being good since the show is the main reason for going there... but I was super surprised. I really enjoyed it and I am a big foodie myself and I have to say that the food was really good. I had the Lobster Bisque and the Teriyaki Chicken and it was all excellent. So if you want a cool place with a nice show and good food try The Mai Kai in Ft. Lauderdale at least once! I know I will be returning.
Answered 02/13/08 15:00:47 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Wow! That's good to hear and a BIG surprise since when I was there last I could hardly eat a thing. Even the waxy spinach salad was impossible to choke down. They must have made some changes in the kitchen. Thanks for your input. That show is priceless! Reminds me of the Brady Bunch's family vacation to Hawaii.Submitted by David from London England
Q: Hello, we are visiting from London next weekend and enjoy the Biltmore Hotel. We'd like to try another restaurant - we prefer straight forward cooking with good, unpretentious service. Do you have any recommendations?
Answered 02/13/08 14:59:02 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: You should love Michael's Genuine Food & Drink, discussed extensively on this forum or also Pascal's on Ponce (2611 Ponce de Leon Blvd., 305-444-2024) for simple and delicious French Bistro fare.Submitted by Peter from Miami Beach
Q: Dear Victoria, Goofy asked, "Are there any restaurants in the Miami area which have a dedicated cheese course?" I'm proud to say that the new Two Chefs Too, where I bartend, has a cheese menu with about a dozen cheeses. We'd love for you to come by and dine. Peter Confalone
Answered 02/13/08 14:56:07 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Thanks, Peter: My mistake! Of course. Thanks for your input. I will be there soon!Submitted by Irene from North Miami Beach
Q: Hello Victoria. We recently moved down to the area and are looking for a good authentic chinese restaurant (not a chain like PF CHang's) We live in North Miami Beach and have tried Bamboo Gardens & Susie Lau but have not been very impressed. Any suggestions?
Answered 02/13/08 14:54:44 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: It's true there is a dearth of good Chinese here in Miami. And, you are right, P.F. Chang's does not even remotely qualify. The huge quantities of sugar and salt in each dish is overwhelming. Let me know what you think of The King Palace right in your area. It's at 330 NE 167th Street (305-949-2339). It's newly renovated, very authentic and fun. Ask for the special menu. Another option for pricey but delicious Hong Kong style cuisine is Mr. Chu's (890 Washington Ave., 305-538-8424; www.mrchu.net)Submitted by Patty from Miami, Fl.
Q: I've never seen any reviews for Barton G. I have always wanted to try it out but never got around to it. I was thinking of having Valentine's dinner there.... Do you recomend it and if so what should I try since the menu is HUGE!
Answered 02/12/08 01:49:35 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Dear Patty: Not only is the menu huge but so are the portions. There it is all about presentation and the show of eating. If that is the kind of thing you like, then you will love Barton G. Stone crab claws arrive behind the smoke of dried ice and caesar salad is served with a mini cheese grater. Popcorn shrimp come in a real popcorn box and desserts like a tower of cotton candy are over-the-top.Submitted by Starving in Surfside from Surfside, FL
Q: Yes, we did file the complaint with the BBB of South Florida. In retaliation, the employees/owners of FOODGANG filed a bogus BBB complaint against me and my company using a fake name yesterday. We paid cash so there is no credit card company to step in. We appreciate your help...By any chance to you know any consumer advocates at any of the local news stations that might be able to help us??
Answered 02/07/08 00:03:06 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: You can try the Problem Solvers division of WPLG Channel 10 News at www.Local10.com You can send mail to Local 10 at: WPLG 3900 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL 33137Submitted by goofy from Toronto
Q: Are there any restaurants in the Miami area which have a dedicated cheese course? I checked the Palme d'or menu and, surprisingly, didn't see one. I know Epicure in MB hs a good selection to take home, but I would love to find a restaurant that treats the cheese course (which I prefer to dessert) with proper reverence.
Answered 02/05/08 15:04:09 by Victoria Pesce Elliott
A: Dear Goofy: I have been searching but find no one in Miami doing a dedicated cheese menu. Palme d'or did do it for a while but Chef Philippe Ruiz said it was not working out. "Between the waiters and the customers, it is hard to make it work," he said by way of explanation. There simply wasn't a big enough demand. He does always include a cheese selection, usually four or five tastes of whatever he has in the kitchen. Have you seen my posts on Weston's The Cheese Course (954-384-8183)? Johnny V's (625 E Las Olas Blvd., 954-761-7920) in Ft Lauderdale does have an extensive cheese list I did not find it posted on their site, but you can call and ask to have the 50+ menu sent to you.
