Pull up a stool to the outdoor bar at the alfresco sandwich shop, where baguettes or croissants are stuffed with gourmet fillings like prosciutto, roast beef, fresh mozzarella, and Brie.
The old-timey-looking steakhouse has plush red banquettes and a wood bar that call to mind Prohibition-era Chicago. Pull up gangsta style for a T-bone.
A genuine Italian joint. Rustic with a second-story outdoor lounge, mozzarella bar (cheese made on-site), thin-crust pizza with fancy toppings, and a specialty shop selling tomato sauce and olive oil.
A triple threat: restaurant, sports bar, lounge. Order a gourmet burger (or design your own) and a boozy milk shake (from the soda fountain). The bar serves till late and the upstairs lounge has a chill, un-South Beach vibe.
Who says Miami doesn’t have any neighborhood bars? W Wine Bistro is tucked away in the quieter part of the Design District, serving great food and wine. Stop in for Friday happy hours, no corkage fee Wednesdays, and bimonthly tastings.
Where you take out-of-towners to show them the Miami they expect. Brave the beautiful people and mortgage-your-house bill for a giant meatball with ricotta. Or go for a drink and take advantage of free bacon at the bar.
The French brasserie complete with raw bar stays open late night. The space is practically a replica of the Paris original (same designer). Nosh Kobe carpaccio after hitting the clubs.
Sure, it’s called a bistro and bar, but the real draw at the resto inside the Catalina Hotel is the Thursday-night show. Go for the interactive burlesque, drag queen cabaret, and blues singer. Also notable: the Sunday doggie brunch.
Champagne cocktails and porterhouse dreams. The Cleveland import serves meat done right. Decor is a modern take on steakhouse chic (plush banquettes, mahogany bar); service is fabulous.
Govind Armstrong brought his L.A. burger joint to South Beach, complete with excellent patties and cheap beer. Great place to watch a game. Don’t miss the $20 unlimited DIY Bloody Mary bar on Sundays.