Heavy pondering over countless abstract pieces can really work up the appetite. So, whether you’re a local or just want to eat like one, here’s Savory Sinderella’s quick guide to Basel bites.
Tip: Everything is in walking distance or a short Uber, Smart Car or taxi ride away.
DOWNTOWN
GUIDE KEY
[$] Ballin’ On A Budget
[$$] Just Got Paid B****
[$$$] Make It Rain On Them Hoooostesses
1. SOYA E POMODORO [$$]
My absolute favorite spot in Downtown Miami, Soya serves up traditional Italian cuisine in an off beat, bistro setting. Order up some spaghetti Bolognese or a lighter Caprese salad. This eclectic, whole-in-the wall, is open for lunch Monday-Friday (11:30-4:30); and dinner Thursday-Saturday (7:00-11:30) with live music at 9 p.m.
2. DB MODERNE BISTRO [$$$]
Daniel Boulud’s Miami eatery offers traditional French Bistro fare merged with an American twist. The restaurant offers a great prixe fixe lunch menu which includes two courses for $26, with menu items ranging from Duck Raviolo and Scallop Carpaccio. Dinner starts weekly at 6 pm. P.s. the bar at DB Moderne Bistro will be having Andy Warhol inspired cocktails during Art week. Cheers to drinking out of Campbell’s can!
3. VERDE AT PAMM [$$]
The on-site eatery at the Perez Art Museum is perfect for a quick snackaroo, or a formal sit down lunch. The menu consists of salads, pizza, sandwiches and pasta. You can also grab a latte and take a seat on the museum’s concrete bleachers while taking in the beautiful Miami bay view.
4. LE CHAT NOIR [$$]
Wine, cheese and jazz; the perfect digestif to a long day of Baseling. This adorable wine bar serves quiche, salads, and numerous charcuterie offerings. Going for dinner? make sure to check out the basement for live music at 10 pm. and a nice glass of vino.
5. BALI CAFE [$]
If you enjoy the exotic, Bali Cafe is not to miss. This hidden downtown gem is serving up traditional Indonesian food on the cheap. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner, but make sure to hit the ATM because its cash only.
WYNWOOD-MIDTOWN
1. SHIKANY [$$$]
Shikany is great for art enthusiasts and foodies a like. Chef Micahel Shikany combines molecular gastronomy, vibrant colors and unique textures crafting dishes fit for a canvas. The restaurant will be offering a special Basel menu, so make sure to make reservations ahead of time.
2. KUSH [$$]
Burgers, beers….and blunts? no, no…no blunts but Kush does offer a ridiculous bacon brownie! Kush is serving up craft beers, insane burgers (waffle burrrrrgerrrr…ahhh), and good times. They’re open for lunch and dinner; or just a cool spot to get saucy at.
3. ZAK THE BAKER [$]
Zak the baker offers fresh baked artisan breads accompanied with hearty soups, and open faced sandwiches. Grab a coffee and the Roast beet & feta za’atar. Sit back and enjoy the unadulterated taste of grains, open daily for breakfast & lunch [9am-4pm]
4. ENRIQUETAS [$]
Croquetas mannnn. If you’re seeking authentic Miami grub, traditional Cuban fare at Enriquetas is where its at! Stop by for a Miami pick me up, Cuban crack…I mean Cuban coffee and pair it with a media noche or a pan con bistec. Lunch Only.
5. PROOF PIZZA & PASTA [$$]
This Midtown newcomer is firing up some serious Neapolitan pizza, and fresh made pastas. Get your carb on at Proof, and order their Oxtail pizza with black garlic and a smooth, crisp draft beer. Dinner only Tuesday- Friday, and Brunch Saturday & Sunday.
SOUTH BEACH
1. SIENA TAVERN [$$]
This Chicago original has found its way to Miami. Season Five Top Chef competitor, Fabio Viviani utilizes fresh, from-scratch ingredients to Italian favorites while still incorporating its bustling South Beach surroundings. Grab a handcrafted cocktail at the bar or grab dinner after a long day at the Convention center.
2. LUCALI PIZZA [$$]
One of my favorite pizza spots in Miami, and usually.This joint is walking distance from the Miami Beach Convention Center and perfect for dinner (not open for lunch). Share a pie (and maybe some meatballs) and bulk up before a long, boozy night on the town.
3. SEMILLA [$$$]
This modern gastro-pub is dishing out tapas. Chef Frederic Joulin commands the restaurant’s open kitchen, bringing small plates ranging from ceviche to short rib pot stickers. Semilla is not only tasty, but utilizes sustainable and organic ingredients too. However, Semilla is only open for dinner, so make sure to make reservations, or take a seat at their u-shaped bar.
4. TONGUE & CHEEK [$$$]
One of my favorite restaurants on the beach, serving modern American fare sprinkled with hints of traditional flair. Try the beef cheek burger with their “Smashing Pumpkin Old Fashioned” or grab some fresh made doughnuts at their weekend brunch.
5. OOLITE [$$$]
James Beard nominee, Chef Kris Wessel is dishing out healthy regional cuisine that is also gluten free. Oolite is located only steps away from the convention center, and a great pick for exotic cocktails and some darn good food. Gluten-free or not, this restaurant will win over even the starkest of gluten loyalist.