Where to stay, dine, see and be seen during Art Basel 2021.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
MIAMI BEACH
Abbale Telavivian Kitchen A chic, Israeli-inspired restaurant from hospitality entrepreneurs Omer Horev and Executive Chef Sam Gorenstein, opened March 2021 in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood. Abbale brings the flavors of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine to Miami – Gorenstein’s imprint can be found in many of the Syrian and Latin flavors on the menu, while Horev’s Moroccan roots are the inspiration for several dishes as well. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, featuring nisnushim (snacks), coffee and tea, craft beers and wines from regional, boutique producers with a focus on Israeli selections. Abbale Telavivian Kitchen is located at 864 Commerce Street on Miami Beach. www.abbatlv.com
Gianni’s at The Villa Casa Casuarina The acclaimed Mediterranean restaurant at the former Versace Mansion provides guests an inspiring dining experience from Executive Chef Valter Mancini, in an unapologetically opulent setting. With a nod to its previous iteration as the late Gianni Versace’s home, the restaurant boasts several extravagant dining areas including the Garden Dining Room, the Roman Room decorated with romantic statues, the iconic courtyard, and the terrace overlooking the mosaic-filled pool and garden. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, it is also available for private events. Gianni’s is located at 1116 Ocean Drive at The Villa Casa Casuarina in Miami Beach. www.vmmiamibeach.com/gianni/.
Hakkasan Hakkasan one of Fontainebleau’s sumptuous restaurants is led by Chef de Cuisine Jian Heng Loo, known for his expertise and innovative execution of traditional Cantonese cuisine. The AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant is also open for traditional Dim Sum lunch on the weekends. Integral to the interior design is its adherence to the principals of feng shui, through which the energy and ambiance of the space is balanced to deliver the quintessential Hakkasan experience. Behind the scenes, Hakkasan features a million-dollar kitchen, constructed in the traditional Chinese style ensuring the utmost level of authenticity. www.fontainebleau.com/hakkasan.
Jaya at The Setai, Miami Beach Jaya, The Setai’s signature modern Asian restaurant, is helmed by Executive Chef Vijayudu Veena and showcases traditional culinary techniques from wok stations to tandoor ovens and offering bold, unique flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, India, China and Japan. Dinner at Jaya is a must go to see and be seen during Basel as it turns into a party atmosphere complete with fire dancers and lively music. The wildly popular Sunday Jazz Brunch features a lavish buffet of culinary delights with limitless pours of Louis Roederer Champagne. Jaya at The Setai is located at 2001 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. www.thesetaihotel.com
StripSteak by Michael Mina StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach offers hotel guests and locals alike an adventurous steakhouse dining experience including a la carte cuts as well as signature specials that go far beyond traditional steakhouse fare. The restaurant’s raw bar includes selections sourced locally through BleauFish – the hotel’s innovative ocean-to-table live catch program. Designed by Bishop Pass, the two-story indoor-outdoor venue evokes a rich, stylish tone replete with several convivial cocktail bars along with a beautifully appointed, bamboo-enclosed poolside patio. StripSteak is located inside the Fontainebleau Miami Beach directly off the Chateau lobby; www.fontainebleau.com/stripsteak.
The ScapeGoat Nestled in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, The ScapeGoat is an intimate bar known for its classic cocktails, inventive contemporary libations, and carefully curated selection of wine, beer and spirits. An Ariete Hospitality Group (AHG) concept, this edgy drinking den is the perfect destination for any occasion. The distressed, stained mirrored ceiling, rustic wooden tabletops and leather stools exude a sense of sexy sophistication. The ScapeGoat is located at 100 Collins Avenue CU4 on Miami Beach. https://scapegoatsobe.com/
Time Out Market Miami Time Out Market Miami brings the best of the city under one roof: its best chefs, drinks and cultural experiences, based on the editorial curation Time Out is known for. Guests are able to explore local fine dining from a variety of kitchens and come together to enjoy their meals at communal tables. There are currently nine eateries offering an incredible range of local cuisine including culinary nods to several cultures and cuisines like Arepitas Bar: a unique Colombian concept; contemporary Vietnamese fare at Pho Mo; expertly crafted patisserie at Bachour and plenty more. Time Out Market Miami features three bars: the main bar in the center of the market serves innovative craft cocktails created by top local mixologists from some of Miami’s most renowned bars and Time Out Market’s own specialized bar team. Time Out Market Miami is located at 1601 Drexel Avenue on Miami Beach; https://www.timeoutmarket.com/miami/.
WYNWOOD
Beaker & Gray Located in Miami’s Art District, and surrounded by Art Basel happenings, Beaker & Gray has established itself as a year-round local hotspot since its opening in 2015. Conceptualized by chef/owner Brian Nasajon and bar manager/owner Ben Potts, the restaurant is a 120-seat eatery with a playful, globally-inspired menu and vibrant after-hours bar where innovative food and drinks go hand in hand. Beaker & Gray is located at 2637 North Miami Avenue in Wynwood. https://beakerandgray.com/.
Cervecería La Tropical The iconic brand which established the Cuban beer industry in 1888, opened a new and permanent home in Miami's Wynwood Arts District in February 2021, over half a century after being seized by the communist government. A new, must-visit Miami hotspot, the 28,000 square-foot La Tropical features a state-of-the-art onsite brewing operation, accompanied by a taproom, botanical garden, as well as, an ongoing event schedule, art installations, live music stage and a Latin Caribbean-inspired restaurant by Miami’s own Chef Cindy Hutson. Outdoors, consumers can explore a lush 10,000 square-foot botanical tropical garden – Jardines La Tropical – and, in keeping with the neighborhood, a selection of commissioned murals and art by local artists. Cervecería La Tropical is located at 42 NE 25th Street in Wynwood. www.cervecerialatropical.com.
Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop is an award-winning, South Florida-based helmed by former Miami firefighter, Derek Kaplan. Fireman Derek’s combines rich, decadent flavors in over 50 unique pies, cakes, cheesecakes, brownies, bars, bread puddings and cookies. Fireman Derek’s also serves a variety of hand-churned ice cream flavors inspired by bake shop favorites. In addition to serving his signature lineup of sweets, the expansive menu also includes savory items, including a Buffalo Chicken Mac-and-Cheese Pot Pie, along with a variety of handmade Empanadas. Fireman Derek’s – Wynwood is located at 2545 N. Miami Avenue. https://firemandereks.com.
Hiyakawa Located in the Wynwood Arts District, Hiyakawa is a contemporary Japanese restaurant rooted in tradition that blends an unwavering dedication to craft with a devotion to the world’s finest ingredients to present an experience like no other. The concept, which opened late 2020, was created by restaurateur and art dealer Alvaro Perez Miranda. The kitchen is helmed by Master Chef Masayuki Komatsu and the menu's focus is simplicity, seasonality with a variety of a la carte fried dishes, soups, appetizers, and seasonal sushi, nigiri, and handrolls offered by the piece, and Omakase offerings which are the highlight of the menu. Time-honored practices are used to prepare no more than 50 meals a night composed with seasonal ingredients from boutique purveyors and growers. Hiyakawa is located at 2700 N Miami Ave #5 in Wynwood. www.hiyakawamiami.com
R House Situated in the heart of Wynwood Arts District, one of Miami’s most culturally dense neighborhoods, R House is a contemporary restaurant & bar heralded for its soulful dinner offerings, as well as it’s bustling weekend brunch scene and evening programming. The Wynwood institution is known best for its modern Latin American plates by Chef Rocco Carulli, extravagant drag performances and lively atmosphere inspired by the vivacious flavors of Miami. R House, located at 2727 NW 2nd Avenue in Wynwood. www.rhousewynwood.com.
MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT
Boia De Boia De, a beloved neighborhood gem from James Beard Award Semifinalist couple Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer, is located just outside Miami’s Design District neighborhood and steps away from all the Art Basel action. The funky, intimate eatery boasts a retro-modern style, comfortably chic furnishings and modern American menu with touch of Italian influence. Reservations at Boia De are a hot ticket in town, so it is highly recommended to book a table in advance. Boia De located at 5205 Northeast Second Avenue. www.boiaderestaurant.com
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon With locations around the world in cities including Paris, Tokyo, and New York, the South Florida outpost of Chef Joël Robuchon’s groundbreaking concept, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon’s Miami Design District outpost is an Art Basel hotspot in the heart of the action. The restaurant offers diners modern French cuisine served at a signature 34-seat dining counter that faces directly into the open kitchen. The format of the menu at L’Atelier allows diners the flexibility to create their own experience by ordering a la carte or one of the various tasting menu options. www.LAtelier-miami.com.
Le Jardinier Le Jardinier, a modern vegetable-driven restaurant rooted in classic French technique and created by longtime protégé of Chef Joël Robuchon and Michelin-starred chef, Alain Verzeroli, is an ideal outpost to eat, drink, see and be seen. The casually sophisticated concept features a menu where local, seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs and greens are complemented by wild and sustainable fish, meat and poultry. Located on the first floor of the bi-level plaza (with L’Atelier located upstairs), the restaurant features a lush outdoor dining area. www.Lejardinier-miami.com.
MiMo DISTRICT
Cafe Kush Located in the historical MiMo – short for “Miami Modern” – arts district, at the Selina Gold Dust Motel, Café Kush transports guests to their very own Miami-meets-French Riviera. Boasting tasteful art deco vibes and a serene water view, this funky, French-inspired café dishes up bistro classics such as well as Kush signature items. From homemade vermouth left tableside and charged by the consumption, to cocktails served in cigar boxes and finished with an aromatic spritz from vintage perfume bottles, the libations are a marvel of creativity. Cafe Kush is located at 7700 Biscayne Blvd in Miami; kushhospitality.com
Phuc Yea Located in the heart of Miami’s bustling Upper East Side, contemporary Vietnamese mainstay, Phuc Yea, offers a selection of shareable plates that boast flavors from across Southeast Asia and Latin America. The 75-seat restaurant is inspired by co-owner Aniece Meinhold's Vietnamese heritage and chef/co-owner Cesar Zapata's “Third Coast'' culinary roots. Under one roof, guests are invited to embrace 90's hip-hop, street-cool music; and enjoy the beloved Chef Cesar's interpretation of Asian fusion cuisine. Sunday Brunch features a dim sum-style a la carte menu that highlights classic American brunch preparations with an eastern flare. Phuc Yea is located at 7100 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, FL. www.phucyea.com.
Wabi Sabi Miami Wabi Sabi is a traditional Japanese restaurant that uses simple, time-honored techniques to offer a concise selection of sushi and donburi in a casual setting. Perfect for a quick and high-quality meal between art week happenings, the menu features traditional rolls and hand rolls, meticulous omakase platters, refined vegetarian offerings, and various private dining experiences. Guests can enjoy an ever changing array of seasonal and hard to find ingredients served in multiple formats, while also enjoying the ability to customize donburi with various bases and sauces. The restaurant is located next to Black Ship Moment gallery by the same owner, Alvaro Perez Miranda, which will be exhibiting Paul Amundarain’s first sculpture show for Art Basel. Wabi Sabi is located at 851 NE 79th Street. www.wabisabimiami.com
DOWNTOWN MIAMI
Toro Toro Toro Toro, is an inventive concept by acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval, known for his highly-regarded restaurants around the world. Centrally located to all things Art Basel, in the heart of Downtown Miami, Toro Toro is a Pan-Latin interpretation of a contemporary steakhouse that celebrates Latin American flavors through a menu of shareable plates, craft cocktails and a sexy ambiance. Toro Toro is located at 100 Chopin Plaza at the InterContinental Miami.. www.torotoromiami.com
WHERE TO STAY & BE SEEN
Fontainebleau Miami Beach In November 2008 – following a $1 billion expansion and renovation – the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, a revered Miami Beach landmark since the 1950s, re-emerged as one of the country’s most sought-after beachfront resorts. Set on more than 20 sprawling oceanfront acres and boasting 1,504 guest rooms and suites and a 40,000 square foot luxury spa, the iconic playground for celebrities and entertainers ranging from Elvis Presley to Frank Sinatra, is a spectacular blend of Miami’s glamorous golden era and today’s modern style. The resort features luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art amenities, including suites outfitted with iMacs®, two dynamic nightlife venues, and multiple food & beverage outlets including signature nationally-acclaimed restaurants all overseen by the hotel’s talented Executive Chef Thomas Connell. Located at 4441 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. www.fontainebleau.com.
The Villa Casa Casuarina at The Former Versace Mansion One of South Beach’s most storied locations, Villa Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 and modeled on the mansion in Santo Domingo that was built in 1510 by Christopher Columbus’ son. The property was a dilapidated apartment building when it caught the eye of the late designer Gianni Versace in 1992 who purchased it as his residence, lavishly remodeling and expanding it. Today, the Villa is a luxury boutique hotel, encompassing 10 lavish suites; the signature restaurant Gianni’s, Onyx Bar, Sushi by Bou omakase restaurant experience, and several unique event spaces. The three-story villa has been completely preserved – among its extravagant accommodations available to guests is Gianni’s former bedroom. The restaurant and bar overlook a 54-foot-long pool lined with 24-karat gold, showcasing Versace's notorious Medusa logo comprised of more than one million Italian mosaic tiles. Additional amenities include the open-air courtyard, a rooftop oasis, an observatory, and more. The Villa is located at 1116 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. www.vmmiamibeach.com
InterContinental Miami With nearly 40 years as an icon of the Downtown Miami skyline, the InterContinental® Miami is located at the crossroads of Miami's Business and Arts & Entertainment districts, central to the Art Basel happenings. Rising 34 stories over the city with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay and the Port of Miami, the hotel features 653 luxury guest rooms, including 22 suites and two presidential suites. The downtown property boasts several dining options, including the acclaimed Toro Toro Pan-Latin steakhouse, as well a full-service 24/7 fitness center and spa (mySpa Miami); and rooftop pool deck with new SkyLawn boasting world class city and water views. Debuting December 1 through December 13 in the hotel’s lobby, a Cuban art exhibition entitled Human Nature showcases painting and sculptures by internationally renowned artists. www.icmiamihotel.com/artbasel
