By: Paige Mastrandrea & Charlotte Trattner
SUMMER IS SIZZLING, AND SO IS THE CITY’S RESTAURANT SCENE. FROM MASTERFUL DEBUTS TO TASTING MENUS WE’RE STILL TALKING ABOUT, HERE ARE THE TOP REASONS DINING OUT IN MIAMI IS HOTTER THAN EVER.
Motek Coral Gables’ chic and minimalistic dining room
KLAW
Located in Miami’s Woman’s Club, Klaw’s culinary program delivers some of the finest sea and land delicacies, complete with showstopping presentations such as the Norwegian king crab, which is deshelled tableside and served as a centerpiece, and a custom-curated beef rearing program featuring unique cuts.
MANDOLIN
One of Miami’s most famous and long-standing eateries, this Design District paradise transports you straight to a cozy and romantic eatery in Greece. Run by husband-and-wife duo Anastasia and Koutsioukis and Ahmet Erkaya, diners from near and far frequent the dinner and lunch hot spot, feasting on Greek meze samplers, grilled octopus, cheese saganaki, whole Mediterranean sea bass and more.
ABA
Combining influences from Greece, Turkey, Israel, and Lebanon, Aba presents true craftsmanship in design and cuisine. Offering a lighter style of gastronomic creations, Aba’s menu highlights include shawarma-spiced skirt steak, hummus and mezze spreads, and more.
AVRA
Delivering fresh dishes, Avra Estiatorio isn’t just a restaurant but a destination transporting diners to the Greek islands. With a menu inspired by tavernas along the Greek coast, guests can enjoy an array of fresh seafood and an impressive wine list that spans the globe.
MOTEK
With locations around South Florida, MOTEK delivers an authentic kosher-style menu, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to Miami with award-winning dishes such as the Arayes burger. From hot and cold mezze to freshly baked sweets, MOTEK serves endless flavors in a warm and hospitable environment. 45 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 36 NE First St., Miami; and 19565 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, motekcafe.com
CALISTA
Dishing out authentic seafood-centric Greek cuisine from octopodi to spanakopita, this Greek taverna invites guests to experience bold Mediterranean flavors, complete with weekly programming and live entertainment, including Mamma Mia-style events.
ADRIFT MARE
Helmed by celebrated chef David Myers, this captivating experience combines Myers’ worldly travels with melded French Riviera and the Balearic Islands flavors. Utilizing the freshest ingredients, this Brickell spot embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean.
![The beautifully feminine entrance of Calista COURTESY OF CALISTA GREEK SEAFOOD TAVERNA](https://mlmiamimag.com/get/files/image/galleries/bt_DPZIWGEFN0ZS7WJ59YPKWUHUA0QWW.jpg)
KOMMA
Helmed by hospitality veteran George Sezgin, this Miami Beach kitchen and bar concept embraces a Mediterranean celebration. Complete with regional Agean flavors and uniquely defined spaces, Komma invites guests to experience a sensory journey.
KAIA GREEK
Located in the heart of Miracle Mile, Kaia dishes out authentic Greek favorites such as beef kefte, branzino, kebabs, and more, evoking the sense of a Mediterranean journey through fresh herbs and shareable plates.