Ah… Sunday Brunch the mere mention of the words conjures up images of epicurean delights and the aromas of fresh baked bread and cinnamon. However a Brunch on Miami Beach is just as likely to include the rich flavors of mango salsa and unique textures of Yucca and Plantains as bagels and smoked fish.
AMERICANA AT THE RITZ-CARLTON MIAMI BEACH 1 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach, FL 33139 (786) 276-4033 You’ll be putting on the “Ritz” as you sip free flowing Mimosa’s savoring the great views of The Atlantic Ocean as you enjoy Sunday brunch at Lincoln Road’s most prestigious address. Listen to the sounds of popular local Jazz Bands as you indulge on world-renowned Chef’s creations such as Gulf Shrimp with Tomatoes, Horseradish and Lemon, or Chilled Pemiquid Oysters with Caviar Crème Fraiche. Other stations include Carpaccios, fresh fruits, and an exquisite selection of European Meats and Cheeses. A brunch in South Florida is not complete without a slice of Key Lime Pie; try one of the best in the area along with several other divine delicacies at the dessert station. Dine inside and enjoy a contemporary atmosphere that matches the bold style of the cuisine, or enjoy tropical breezes by the Infinity Pool - either way your brunch at the Americana is sure to please.
BALANS 1022 Lincoln Rd. (Michigan Ave.) Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-534-9191 Sunday brunch at Balans offers two things, wonderful fusion cuisine and the best patio on South Beach to people watch. Read your Sunday paper as you take in the aura of Miami, while enjoying an eclectic brunch menu that serves up Thai noodles, a variety of wraps and sandwiches, or a traditional hardy breakfast of eggs, bacon and potatoes – or try what some have said are the best eggs benedict in Miami. A London import, locals love Balans for its pet friendly patio, creative light and friendly fare, and great breakfasts at comparatively low prices. For a great “balance” of cool cuisine and fair prices on Lincoln Road, you just can’t beat Balans.
ACQUA AT THE FOUR SEASONS 1435 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131 (305) 358-3535 As you take in brunch at Acqua, located on the seventh floor of The Four Seasons it will be hard to decide which view is more fabulous – that of the Atlantic from the floor to ceiling windows, or of the award winning brunch stations. Savor Steamed Shrimp in a Spiked Horseradish sauce, or Stone Crab Claws (in season) in Honey Mustard Sauce on the Seafood Station. The Breakfast Station features made-to-order omelets and eggs benedict served with smoked salmon for a little extra flair. There is a Salad Station where among the traditional offerings you will find a Roasted Pencil Asparagus with Shaved Parmesan and sensuous Truffle Vinaigrette dressing. Pasta, Soup and Carving Stations round out the selections, and of course save room for some unique desserts that are not to be missed. Brunch at Acqua is served Sundays from 11:30AM to 3:00PM and reservations are suggested.
BIZCAYA GRILL AT THE RITZ-CARLTON COCONUT GROVE The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove 3300 SW 27th Avenue Coconut Grove 33133 305-644-4675 When ever I attend a Sunday Brunch, like most of us I am tempted to go to the Dessert Station first. At Bizcaya that siren song is all the louder because there you will find not just a dessert station, but a Dessert Room. What at other times is a mild-mannered bar and lounge transforms on Sundays to an entire room filled with tasty treats and decadent delights that would put Willy Wonka to shame. However while making a beeline for the éclairs, take a minute to slowdown and sample the ten other stations, that include offerings such as oysters on the half shell, a selection of fine cheeses, a carving station, and luscious grilled baby lamb chops. Or what the heck, life is short go to the dessert room first – whatever you choose to fill you plate with you will enjoy it in an atmosphere of lush tropical gardens where both water falls and champagne are free-flowing.
RESTAURANT ST. MICHEL 162 Alcazar Ave Coral Gables, FL 33134 (305) 444-1666 While Sunday brunch may be something of an American tradition the French really know how to do it right. Located in one of the most charming hotels in The Gables, the Old World charm of the St. Michel combines with classical French Cuisine to serve up a Sunday Brunch with a distinctly European style. If you’re looking for an alternative to the gardens and tropical greenery, the dinning room décor here is defiantly lace curtains and finery, antiques and flowers. Enjoy the rich sounds of live piano music inside, or sit outside and imagine you are on the Champs Elysees. A brunch buffet is available for about 25.00 or delight in a la carte favs such as a variety of crepes, French toasts and waffles.
NEMO 100 Collins Ave, Miami, FL, 33139 (305) 532-4550 This “Nemo” is easy to find in the new up and coming area of South Beach known as “SoFi” for South of Fifth Street. Nemo’s is known for its open kitchen, which on Sunday becomes the counter for its expansive brunch. The cuisine is unquestionably “Miami Fusion” with such succulent dishes as Pork Loins with Papaya Salsa. Wok specialties include a Wok seared Salmon with roasted pumpkin seeds and other Pan-Asian creations such Crispy Prawns with spicy salsa. For libations there are huge Bloody Marys and Mimosas - a little expensive at 14.00 and 15.00 respectively, but they are the size of at least two or three “standard” brunch cocktails. Save room for the desserts created by world famous pasty Chef “Doctor of Chocolate” Hedy Goldsmith.
Mark Militello has been a South Florida Legend since opening the first Mark’s Place in Miami in 1988. Since then he has won many national accolades, including Food & Wine Magazines “Ten Best Chefs in America”. The swanky, sleek Mark’s South Beach is located downstairs in the Nash Hotel. Sunday Brunch at Marks begins at noon. Brunch Menu items vary based on availability of local ingredients, but specialties include Mediterranean Mussels in Roasted Garlic and Mango Honey Glazed Seared Duck Breast. Come to Sunday Brunch at Mark’s South Beach and experience why Gourmet Magazine has named it one of America’s Best Restaurants.
THE RUSTY PELICAN 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway Key Biscayne, FL 33149 (305) 361-3818 Ask anyone around Key Biscayne what their favorite brunch spot is and the answer will be unanimous, The Rusty Pelican! Known for the "seafood spot" with the fabulous view. I might add I have had Shrimp prepared in a variety of ways here as well and every time my taste buds danced with delight! The crowds gather here, big time, on Sundays for Brunch so make sure that you don't miss out as their brunch is as fabulous as their entire menu at the Rusty Pelican!
GREENSTREET CAFE 3488 Main Highway Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (305) 444-0244 Rounding out our top ten for brunch takes us on a trip to the coolest place in Miami, Coconut Grove. Here you will find Greenstreet Cafe. Now if you wanted your brunch to be just laid back and fun then this is the place. Greenstreet is a sidewalk cafe where locals choose to spend leisurely Sundays to get away from it all. Absolutely, some of the best French Toast I have ever eaten has been here, that along with some crispy bacon, endless cups of coffee and "your boy has come home, Momma!" I would recommend the Greenstreet Cafe if it's just going to be two or three of you and you just want good food and good conversation.
Average brunch or lunch price around $11.00.
Please remember it is usually good to call ahead for reservations. Once again, a difficult task is complete and as always these are just ten out of literally hundreds of choices for special dining experiences. Until next time, Salute!
The Top List of Best Brunches - Miami, FL