By Yours Truly and Jan Engoren

 

With prices increasing for dining out,  I thought we could all use info on lunch specials so here are the updates on Parts 1 and 2. Here’s Part 1  on quality lunch specials around town. Plus, we’ve made additions, marked by “NEW”. Based on the quality/value, you may want to even consider having a celebratory lunch rather than dinner. As you’ll see, you can get a three course lunch at some of the top restaurants in town for the price of an entree at dinner (or even less)!  Here’s Part 1, lunch deals in Miami Beach, Bal Harbour,  Aventura, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables. And check out the new additions to Part 2 with Brickell area/downtown, Miami River,  the Design District.  Click here.

 

Miami Lunch Specials: Coral Gables

 

Mika   NEW

“The Taste of the Riveria,” located in The Plaza Coral Gables, offers both a two-course prix fixe lunch for $42 and a three-course prix fixe for $48.

With a vision by Michelin-star chef, Michael White, the restaurant features crudos and house-made pastas, with a focus on quality and seasonality.

Begin with an Appetizer of a Mediterranean Dips, Hamachi Crudo or Tuna Carpaccio.  For your first course there are 14 entrée choices including, Crab and Avocado Salad, Chicken Caesar Milanese, Beef and Lamb Kofta, a Black Grouper Sandwich, Lobster Roll and an 8-oz. Prime Burger, among others.

For dessert try their Yoghurt, Strawberries with Marscapone cream or their Caprese torte, a dark chocolate flourless cake with almond and zabliogne.

Mika is located at 3007 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134.  Tel:  (305) 404-2200.

 

Sea Grill   NEW

Like its name, the restaurant features seasonal and sustainable seafood that is flown in fresh daily and Three-Course Lunch Specials Monday – Friday 12:00 pm to 3:00pm for $39.

For your first course, start with a lentil or avgolemono soup or an assortment of spreads, a Greek or Marouli salad, Dolmathakia (grape leaves), grilled octopus or tuna tartar.

For a first course sample their Dorado Royale (sea bream) served with lemon potatoes, or the Branzino (striped bass) served with lemon potatoes or the Australian lamb chops served with Greek fries.

Other options include Linguini yuvetsi, Chicken sta karvuna, Big Eye Tuna,  Scotish salmon with lemon, or Keftedes (sauteed lamb and beef patties) with fresh garlic, mint and parsley served with basmati rice and tzatziki.

Save room for a dessert of Baklava, Greek yogurt served with fruit preserves, Karidopita, a walnut cake with ice-cream, Galaktobureko custard or a seasonal fruit platter.

Sea Grill is located at 4250 Salzedo St., Coral Gables, FL 33146.  Tel:  (305) 447-3990.

 

Ro Steakhouse NEW

 

Ro Steakhouse in Coral Gables stands out as a sophisticated, contemporary dining destination that blends traditional steakhouse excellence with unique flavors inspired by its owners’ Mexican roots. Led by former Prime 112 Head Chef Marcelo Palacios, the restaurant offers an expansive menu featuring 11 varieties of corn- and grass-fed steaks, including standout dishes like ribeye chicharron and a creatively designed corn mousse dessert which was one of my best desserts of the year. Unlike more boisterous local competitors, Ro provides a refined atmosphere with natural wood and stone decor, private dining options, and an impressive wine and spirit collection. The weekday $36 lunch special with starter, entree and side is a very good deal. For starters options include a wedge salad and their famous rib eye chicharron; entrees include a whole branzino in brown butter and skirt steak; and for sides don’t miss the creamed spinach. And as an add on opt for the corn mousse dessert.

Ro Steakhouse, 121 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables.

 

 

Bulla Gastrobar

Kicking off the Miami lunch specials — This fun, casual eatery takes its inspiration from the most popular Tapas Bars in Spain, Bulla Gastrobar specializes in Tapas – or traditional small plates of chorizo, Mediterranean olives, manchego cheese, and or course, rioja wine.  Known for their  house specialties like huevos bulla and , you can sample these specialties over their Pick Two Lunch Menu, Monday to Friday, priced at $21.50 or $27.00 for three courses.

Choose from a first course of Carpaccio de Salmon, Kale Caeser, Croquetas de Jamon or a soup with a second course of Solomillo con Queso Azul,Pan Seared Chicken, Iberian pork bowl, a Bulla Burger or Bocata de Vegetables, a crispy eggplant and caramelized onion dish.   Try their churros con chocolate or flan de coco for dessert.

Lunch prix fixe menus may vary slightly by location.

Coral Gables – 2500 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida 33134.  Tel:  786-810-6215.

Doral – 5335 NW 87th Avenue C102, Doral, Florida 33166.  Tel:   305-260-6543.

The Falls 8870 SW 136 St. Suite Rr001, Miami, Florida 33176.  Tel:  786-988-5231

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse 

Offering the same menu as their South Beach location, this Brazilian steakhouse features Brazilian-inspired small plates, South American wines and hand-crafted cocktails.  A meat-lovers paradise, Fogo de Chao is located within The Plaza Coral Gables, the restaurant sports an open-air churrasco bar where guests can dine and watch gaucho chefs display the culinary art of churrasco as they prepare and grill different cuts of meat over an open flame. With an outdoor dining patio, extensive wine displays, dry aged meat lockers for in-house aging and an indoor bar, guests can enjoy an extended lunch hour! Additional experiential elements at this location include The Butchery, where visitors can enjoy a glass of South American wine and charcuterie as they consult with Fogo’s expert butchers on the best cut of meat freshly carved and packaged to grill at home.

For $52 pp, you can indulge in the signature cuts Fogo churrasco experience at lunch-time during the week and stay on for their all-day Happy Hour featuring $5 beers, $8 South American wines and $10 Brazilian-inspired cocktails.

The churrasco lunch includes tableside service of signature cuts of fire-roasted meat including filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, pork, bacon-wrapped chicken steak (medalhoes com bacon) lamb chops, linguica (spicy pork sausage) and more.  Side dishes include warm pao de queijo, crispy polenta, mashed potatoes and carmelized bananas. Lunch includes Market Table and Feijoada Bar and dessert. There’s also an indulgent churrasco lunch for $72 per person taht includes fancy food enhancement and a decadent dessert.

You can also just buy the Market Table brimming with cold cuts, cheeses, smoked salmon, vegetables, salads and much more along with the Feijoada Bar starting at $18 !

Fogo de Chao is located at 2801 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. Note: there’s also a new Fogo de Chao in Dadeland.

Tel:  (786) 297-8788.  Self-parking and metered parking available during lunch and dinner. V

Valet parking is available during lunch and brunch for $15 and $20 during dinner.

For my review, click here.

 

 

Miami Lunch Specials: Bal Harbour

 

Makoto

Chef Makoto Okuwa ushers Japanese cuisine into the 21st century at his eponymous eatery, Makoto, located in the Bal Harbour Shops. One of Miami’s most accomplished chefs, Okuwa, a master of Edomae-style sushi, reimagines tradition for a Miami clientele always on the cutting edge.  For lunch, enjoy their Bento boxes with a choice of Chicken Robata, a California or spicy tuna sushi roll or the Ponzu salmon and crispy Brussel sprouts served with miso soup and wasabi rice for $29.  Available 11:30 – 4pm every day, including weekends.

Makoto is located in the Bal Harbour Shops at 9700 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, 33154.  Tel: (305) 864-8600.

 

 

Zaika Indian Cuisine

In the mood for something spicy in the category of Miami lunch specials?  Zaika Indian Cuisine offers a Lunch Special menu, Monday – Friday, excluding holidays at very reasonable prices.  Served with your choice of Samosa or Soup with basmati rice and naan,   Vegetarian offerings include   Shahi Veg Korma ($12),  Palak Paneer ($12), Chana Masala ($12) and Malai Kofta ($12), among others.  Non-vegetarian options include a variety of shrimp dishes including Prawn Kabab Masala ($24), Shrimp Malai ($24), Kerela Pepper Shrimp ($24)and various chicken dishes including Chicken Tikka Masala ($22), Chicken Karahi ($22) and Butter chicken ($22).  They also offer a number of lamb dishes, including Lamb Saag ($23), Lamb Korma ($23) and Lamb Saag ($23).

Zaika Indian Cuisine is located at 2176 NE 123rd St, North Miami, FL 33181.  Tel: (786) 409-5187.

Miami Lunch Specials : Aventura

 

Old Lisbon  – NEW

An iconic Portuguese fine dining restaurant.

Offering a lunch menu Monday through Friday from noon to 2 p.m., a sampling of entrees includes choice of Portuguese salad with mixed greens, cheese, tomatoes, carrots and boiled egg or Grilled Portuguese sardines served with onions, peppers and punched potatoes; Shredded codfish mixed with onions, garlic and steamed potatoes topped with sliced boiled egg; Seafood rice with shrimp, clams, mussels, calamari and fish or Sautéed pork loin chunks with pickles and fried potatoes in white wine garlic sauce.  Entrée prices are between $25 and $33 and come with a Choice of Daily Soup or House Salad.  Soft Drinks ($4) and Glass of House Wine ($9).

Old Lisbon is located at 2960 NE 199th Street, Aventura, FL 33180.  Tel:  (305) 974-5142.

 

 

Golden Chariot Indian Restaurant – NEW

Golden Chariot offers homemade, classic Southern Indian food, prepared by Chef Abilash.  The southeastern coastal region of India produces some of India’s favorite foods, including seafood.  The restaurant experiments with traditional but lighter cooking combinations and techniques in serving Modern and Traditional Indian style food as well as Indian Street Food.

The restaurant is beautifully decorated with statues and carvings of ancient India.

On the entrée side, there are plenty of choices for vegetarians, like Aloo Gobi (Cauliflower and potatoes sautéed with fresh herbs), Paneer Tikka Masala, and Vegetable Korma. If you’re a carnivore, you can enjoy dishes like Lamb Vindaloo, Kadhai Chicken (Boneless chicken pieces cooked with ginger, onion, green pepper and tomatoes), and Fish Goan Curry.

Golden Chariot offers a Lunch Special Menu Mondays through Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

With any entrée, you receive one samosa, one nan bread, a side of rice and small dessert such as rice pudding.  Prices start at $14.95 for a vegetarian entrée and go up to $18.95 for lamb.

Golden Chariot Indian Restaurant is located at 18201B Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33160.  Tel:  (305) 816-6484.

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STK Aventura

This sister restaurant to STK South Beach is redefining the midday meal with its Power Lunch Prix Fixe, a 3-course menu for just $45 per person, designed for those who want a high-energy, fine-dining experience without the long wait.

Available Monday to Friday from 11 am – 3 pm this menu offers a starter, entrée, and a STK sweets to go in 45 minutes or less perfect for powering through a busy day. Signature dishes include Tuna Tartare Tacos, 6oz Filet, Steak Frites, Maple Rubbed Salmon, and more, with STK Sweets To-Go to end on a sweet note.

STK Aventura is in the Esplanade adjacent to the Aventura Mall.

Miami Lunch Specials: Miami Beach

 

Yardbird NEW

Yardbird offers a Southern-Style Power Lunch Monday to Friday from 11AM – 4PM for $29pp.  Known for their fried chicken and Southern hospitality, their menu reflects down-home family recipes – both classic and innovative – all capturing the essence of Southern charm.

Ingredients are sourced from local specialty farms, ensuring quality and freshness.

They take pride not only in their food, but in their bourbon selection and an innovative cocktail program reflecting the true spirit of the South.

The Power Lunch offers a choice of openers:  A Down South Duo Yardbird Classic Deviled Egg & Fried Green Tomato BLT, or  the Iceberg Wedge with House-Smoked Bacon, Charred Corn, Tomato and Avocado.  For the main course select a choice of Bayou Jerk Salmon Burger Piquillo with Pepper Aioli, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion and a Petite Salad.  Or, try the Grilled Jumbo Wings, Country Cobb Protein Bowl or their Chicken & Waffles. Finish with a choice of Seasonal Sorbet or Key Lime Pie.

Yardbird is located at 1600 Lenox Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.  Tel:  (305) 538-5220.

 

Paper Fish Sushi  NEW

This contemporary Tokyo-inspired izakaya/sushi bar offers masterfully crafted Nikkei cuisine using the finest seasonal ingredients and Bento Box Specials from noon – 4pm with prices ranging from $19 to $25.

Try their Spicy Tuna Roll featuring Tuna, Chives, Furikake, Spicy Mayo and Sesame Seeds, a Veggie Roll with Cucumber, Avocado, Sesame Seeds and Edamame or the Paper Tuna Roll which comes with two pieces of Salmon Aburi, a house salad – and two pieces of pork and shrimp gyoza.

Also on the lunch menu are a tuna and rock shrimp poke bowls with avocado, cucumber, spicy mayo, pickled carrots and scallions.  NOTE:  A 20% service charge will be added to each bill.

Paper Fish Sushi is located at 1421 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33130.  Tel:  (305) 741-0936.

 

 

Estiatorio Milos

Estiatorio Milos, the internationally acclaimed, family-owned Greek restaurant founded by renowned restaurateur Costas Spiliadis is offering an elegant, three-course prix-fixe lunch menu available daily from 12 PM to 3 PM at the Miami Beach location. An extraordinary midday escape for $48 per person, this thoughtfully curated experience highlights the restaurant’s signature dedication to pristine ingredients and refined Mediterranean flavors. Begin with a refreshing first course, featuring standout options like the Tomato Salad, sashimi-quality Mediterranean Octopus, or the expertly prepared Sashimi Platter. For the second course, selections include estiatorio Milos classics like the delicately grilled Dorade Royale, Big Eye Tuna (add $10), or Lamb Chops. Conclude the meal with a sweet finish, choosing from the house-made Daily Ice Cream,  Seasonal Fruit , or Yiaourti-Meli, a traditional Greek yogurt with a choice of thyme honey or spoon sweets.

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Estiatorio Milos, 730 First St., Miami Beach, 33139. Tel (305)604-6800.

 

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse

Rounding out the Miami lunch specials  – Located in the heart of South Beach, this Brazilian steakhouse features expansive dining rooms, a white Carrera marble Market Table, wine displays and a full bar specializing in Brazilian-inspired small plates, South American wines and hand- crafted cocktails.  Specializing in churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame – Fogo is a meat lovers’ dream!

For $52 pp, during the week from noon – 4:00 pm., you can indulge in the full Fogo churrasco experience at lunch-time.  (Chances are, after this, you won’t need dinner!)

Offering continuous tableside service of signature cuts of fire-roasted meat including filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, pork, bacon-wrapped chicken steak (medalhoes com bacon) lamb chops, linguica (spicy pork sausage) and more, this is a meat-lover’s paradise.  Side dishes include warm pao de queijo, crispy polenta, mashed potatoes and carmelized bananas. Lunch includes Market Table and Feijoada Bar. You can also just buy the Market Table brimming with cold cuts, cheeses, smoked salmon, vegetables, salads and much more along with the Feijoada Bar for $18 and add on a grilled selection of meats for a supplement!

Fogo de Chao is located at 836 First Street, Miami Beach, Florida 33139.Tel:  (305) 672-0011.

 

Miami Lunch Specials: Coconut Grove

 

Omakai Sushi  NEW

The restaurant, founded in 2019 prides itself on embodying the Japanese concept of “Omotenashi,” which stands for hospitality from the heart – honest, accessible and without pretension.

Omakai Sushi offers three options for Lunch Specials every day starting at noon.  Choose the Oma Lunch Special which includes an Appetizer and six pieces of Nigiri plus a Blue Crab hand roll for $32, or the Oma Deluxe for $40, which includes an Appetizer plus eight pieces of Nigiri plus two hand rolls.

For $95, you can enjoy the full “Omotenashi” experience.  Their chefs will take you on a culinary journey with 17 pieces of sushi, all with seasonal ingredients and specialty cuts of seafood.

 

Omakai Sushi is located at 3304 Mary Street, Miami, FL 33133.  Tel:  (786) 644-6494.  Omakai Sushi also has locations in Wynwood, Aventura and Coconut Grove.

 

 

Amal

Finishing up the quality lunch specials Part 1 is Amal. Set within the lush and serene Coconut Grove neighborhood, Amal’s Lunch Break prix-fixe menu for $28 offers a vibrant midday escape, rooted in modern Lebanese flavors. The menu features a variety of thoughtfully crafted dishes, including a choice of signature Skewer Platter, a  Chicken Shawarma or Halloumi Lavash wrap,  a fresh Vegetarian Platter, or Salmon served with Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. To finish, guests can choose between traditional Baklava or Rice Pudding with pistachio and rose water. This richly flavorful lunch experience is not to be missed. It’s offered Monday through Friday.

Amal, 3480 Main Hwy Suite 100, Miami, FL 33133  (786)369-0846.