We really wanted to mix it up for this gastronomy roundup…does Pan Asian call to you? How about Latin? How about a mix of both? We also included one of the best brunch places around town, and one of the hottest spots in SoFlo, Chef Brad Kilgore’s Ember.
By Francesca Cruz
Restaurant: Casa Sensei
Address:1200 E Las Olas Blvd #101, Fort Lauderdale
Ambiance: Located on famed Las Olas, the restaurant sits right on the water (that alone sets the stage for a great evening out) allowing guests after dinner to hop on a gondola ride.
Why It Makes the Cut: It combines Pan-Asian fare with Latin American gastronomy making for a burst of flavors. The innovative menu is also paired with an electric cocktail menu and coveted selection of sakes and Japanese whiskies.
Mouthwatering Must Haves:The Peking duck, the Korean Steak, the LA Street Tacos, and make sure to include the Cuban tostones.
Restaurant: Ember
Address: 151 NE 41st St, Ste 117, Miami, FL 33137
Ambiance:Located in the Miami Design District and just below the KAIDO cocktail bar, the restaurant is art deco-inspired and designed by Mark Alan Diaz from MAD Design. It offers 3,200-square-feet of indoor and outdoor seating. Note: the music they play ranges from Fleetwood Mac, Redbone to the Rolling Stones, and it truly embellishes the already fab vibe.
Why it Makes the Cut: Well, the obvious, Brad Kilgore is a James Beard-nominated chef, aside from being one very cool cat. The service is as ridiculously awesome as the food.
Mouthwatering Must Haves:The Ember Burger might be the best burger…pause…wait for it…ever! The NOLA Beignet with pimento cheese (pimento cheese makes everything amazing), the Imperial Steak Stroganoff, and a must…must with extra emphasis on the must, the Maduro Cream Pie (made with sweet plantains).
Restaurant: MC Kitchen
Address:4141 NE 2nd Ave #101A, Miami, FL 33137
Ambiance: It serves up modern Italian fare and has become a staple of the Design District. Famous for its brunch, it’s also a place where locals enjoy spending time at the bar chatting up the bartender, as is the case with Max who makes a mean martini.
Why It Makes the Cut:The fresh ingredients, great service and it’s walking distance to some of the best shopping in the city.
Mouthwatering Must Haves: The Fiocchi di Formaggio e Pere, the lobster ravioli, and of course the Truffled Tater Tot Waffle (you can smell the wonderful shaved black Perigord truffles from around the corner).
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