With restaurants only allowed to offer outdoor dining, a new crop of Miami’s finest have retooled existing outdoor spaces, whether it’s offering covering for the rain, cooling fans, or adding to the attractiveness quotient. Here are my top picks for the newest options for outdoor dining in Miami. In case you missed earlier picks, the posts are at the end for more choices.
Novikov has transformed its outdoor terrace for the times, complete with leafy green plants, bamboo enclosed lights simulating Chinese lanterns, and fans to cool the rooftop covered space. The space, which can accommodate 50 with social distancing, was full, with a stunning ladies birthday party. The full menu is offered for dine in or takeout, though I always end up getting my favorites – dim sum and Peking duck because they’re reliably wonderful. It’s open for lunch Monday through Friday from 12 to 3; Dinner daily from 6 to 10; and brunch on Sunday from 11 to 4. Reservations are preferred, and based on how popular it is, I’d say that’s your best bet. Valet parking is $8 at lunch and $15 at dinner.Novikov Miami ,300 South Biscayne Boulevard. T. 305-489-1000
On the Miami River, Seaspice has become a Miami classic, a great spot to take out of town guests for a different side of the city. The majority of the restaurant is outdoor seating, places for 64 total in their Riverside, Lounge and covered porch areas complete with umbrellas and fans. They’re offering their full menu including signature dishes of wood fired casseroles, whole fried Florida yellowtail, house made pastas and more. Besides dine in there is takeaway. Both curbside pickup and delivery are offered. They’re open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 9 . Reservations are highly recommended, though walk ins are accepted. Valet parking is offered at dinner for $15, and street parking is also offered. 422 Northwest North River Drive, T. 305-440-4200.
We can use some flamboyance and food as theater, so happily Barton G., the king of this, is open and offering outdoor seating covered by awnings for 82 diners. Dishes include the Laughing Bird Popcorn Shrimp, Shell Shocked Surf and Turf, and Marie Antoinette’s Head – Let Them Eat Cake. Choose takeout as well. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 5:00PM – 9:00PM; Friday and Saturday 4:00PM – 9:00PM. Walk-ins are accepted, but reservations are suggested. Valet parking is $20 and is cash only. 1427 West Ave. T.305-672-8881.
My earlier review: The New Barton G.
One of Miami’s iconic spots for the best beach views, stylish decor and eating well, Juvia has covered its popular outdoor terrace and can now accommodate 60. My son and I tried two of the new dinner specials at Juvia, ordering them at home. Impressive,both the food and the presentation. Everything was artfully presented, well marked, accompanied by exceptional sauces, and warm. Our favorites were the stracciatella di burrata decorated with edible flowers that was so creamy it was decadent; melt- in- your- mouth tender lamb shank resting on mashed potatoes accompanied by sun dried tomatoes and mushrooms; and a crispy yet moist branzino served with a to- die- for romesco sauce accompanied by roasted baby artichokes and heirloom tomatoes. Reservations and walk ins are accepted. It’s open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday for dinner & Sunday brunch . 1111 building on Lincoln Road, T.305-763-8272.
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Osaka, one of the newer restaurants in town, offers Nikkei cuisine. Nikkei is a fusion of cooking traditions of the Japanese diaspora who settled in Peru in the 19th and 20th centuries and combined their traditions with local ingredients and cooking styles. Osaka is offering up their full menu featuring my favorite dishes including Omakase, a selection of favorites such as ceviche, sashimi, sushi and tiraditos; and the inca gyoza, duck confit dumplings. The covered terrace area accommodates 16 and has cooling fans. It’s open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are strongly encouraged due to the limited seating. Takeout and delivery are also offered. No valet parking, but there are nearby garages.Osaka Miami.1300 Brickell Bay Dr., Miami; T.786-627-4800.
My earlier review: Osaka, a New Hot Spot