As February unfolds in Miami, the city’s vibrant culinary scene continues to flourish with fresh and exciting restaurant openings. This month sees a remarkable array of dining experiences, from elegant seafood and steak houses to cozy Mediterranean eateries and innovative Italian chophouses. Here’s a closer look at some of the noteworthy restaurants that are making waves in Miami’s gastronomic landscape.
A Joe’s Stone Crab Alum Opens a New Spot in Fort Lauderdale
A significant addition to Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene comes from chef André Bienvenu, a veteran of Joe’s Stone Crab, who has launched **Catch & Cut**, a sophisticated steak-and-seafood house located on Las Olas Boulevard. After dedicating 26 years to perfecting his craft at Joe’s, Bienvenu brings his expertise to this new venture, focusing on a menu that emphasizes freshly caught seafood and USDA Prime steaks sourced from Allen Brothers.
Diners at Catch & Cut can indulge in a variety of dishes, including the much-loved stone crabs, while enjoying a curated wine list crafted by sommelier Stephan Cole. The restaurant’s design boasts an open kitchen where guests can watch the culinary team in action, creating an immersive dining experience. For those who prefer to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather, the outdoor patio seating offers a picturesque setting to savor a meal.
Claudie Evokes South-of-France Vibes
In Brickell, the Riviera Dining Group, known for successful concepts like Mila and Casa Neos, has unveiled **Claudie**, a French Mediterranean restaurant that embodies the essence of “la Cuisine du Soleil.” Designed by OV&Co. and renowned designer Lazaro Rosa-Violán, Claudie’s dining room transports guests to the sunny coasts of Southern France, featuring elegant glazed tiles and handcrafted furnishings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
One of the standout features at Claudie is its outdoor patio, which is adorned with a stunning water fountain inspired by classic French jewelry designs. This enchanting setting is perfect for enjoying the restaurant’s thoughtfully curated menu, which highlights fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.
Miami Beach Gains a Master Sfoglina
The Italian culinary scene in Miami Beach has received a significant boost with the opening of **Donna Mare**, an Italian chophouse situated in the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club. Executive chef and master pasta maker Luigi Iannuario leads the kitchen, bringing his expertise to create a menu that celebrates the richness of Italian cuisine.
At Donna Mare, diners can savor an array of offerings, from wood-fired pizzas to succulent steaks and oversized chicken parmesan. However, the highlight of the restaurant is undoubtedly the fresh pastas, handcrafted daily by master sfoglina Elena Montanari. Guests can catch a glimpse of Montanari’s artistry through a window overlooking Collins Avenue, where she skillfully prepares the pastas, ensuring an authentic Italian dining experience.
Oxtail Lasagna and Lechon Asado Features at New Cuban Caribbean Spot
The culinary duo of husband and wife, David Martinez and Michelle Bernstein, known for their acclaimed restaurants like Cafe La Trova and Sra. Martinez, have expanded their repertoire with the opening of **La Cañita** at the Palms of Town & Country. This new location follows the success of their original casual Cuban eatery at Bayside Marketplace, offering a more extensive menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Cuban Caribbean cuisine.
La Cañita’s menu boasts a variety of beloved dishes, including croquetas, empanadas, oxtail lasagna, and lechon asado, providing a true taste of Cuban culinary traditions. Additionally, the restaurant pays homage to the Caribbean’s rich rum culture with a cocktail menu featuring classics like the mojito and Presidente, ensuring a delightful dining experience that transports guests to the heart of the Caribbean.
Classic French Brasserie Lands in Miami Beach
Bringing a taste of Paris to Miami Beach, New York City’s **La Grande Boucherie** has made its debut in the South of Fifth neighborhood. This expansive French brasserie is designed to evoke the glamour of the famed Parisian “Oasis Parties” of the 1920s, making it a stunning backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
With a capacity of 450 guests, La Grande Boucherie offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, enhanced by lush greenery that provides a serene atmosphere. The menu features classic French fare, including favorites like soupe à l’oignon and escargots, alongside a selection of steaks and seafood. Guests can also indulge in a lavish Sunday brunch, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.
NYC Transplant Rosemary’s Sources from Its Own Gardens
The culinary landscape of Wynwood welcomes **Rosemary’s**, an Italian restaurant that has made its mark by emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing. The restaurant occupies a beautifully renovated former single-story show warehouse and features an urban farm developed in collaboration with the Little River Cooperative.
Executive chef Craig Giunta curates a menu that reflects the seasons, utilizing fresh produce and herbs harvested from the restaurant’s garden. This farm-to-table approach allows guests to enjoy a rotating selection of pasta and seafood dishes, complemented by Italian spritzes and a carefully selected wine list that focuses on Italian varietals. Additionally, Rosemary’s offers a variety of zero-proof cocktails, catering to a diverse range of diners.
Wyn Wyn Goes Global with Its Menu
Inside the Arlo Wynwood Hotel, chef David Robbins presents **Wyn Wyn**, a restaurant that draws inspiration from his global travels. The menu at Wyn Wyn features a diverse array of dishes, reflecting culinary traditions from Peru to Polynesia, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Robbins emphasizes the use of fresh produce from Paradise Farms, kombucha from Counter Culture, and herbs cultivated in the hotel’s own herb garden. This commitment to local sourcing ensures the highest quality flavors and supports the community. Additionally, Wyn Wyn offers a weekday happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., making it an ideal spot for after-work gatherings and casual dining.
February 2023 is an exciting time for food lovers in Miami, as the city welcomes a wave of new restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. From the fresh seafood and prime steaks at Catch & Cut to the vibrant Mediterranean flavors at Claudie, there is something to satisfy every palate. As Miami’s dining scene continues to evolve, these new establishments are sure to become favorites among locals and visitors alike, showcasing the city’s rich and diverse culinary landscape. Whether you’re seeking an upscale dining experience or a cozy neighborhood eatery, Miami’s latest culinary gems promise to deliver unforgettable meals for all.
