1 Lincoln Rd, Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33139 786-276-4033

Description: SOUTH BEACH. As polished and gracious as is the Ritz, so is Americana. Dressed in sleek mid-century style and peppered with stainless steel, the restaurant is a beauty. Its menu is just as well composed, if not a little more bold in approach. Classic comfort foods are the kitchen's realm, but they're taken to new heights of invention. As a result, you'll find phyllo fried chicken, lamb cassoulet, braised veal ravioli and Dover sole presented in four different preparations. Steaks with lush sauces of truffles and cognac can also be had, and desserts are similarly delicious. In addition, Sunday brunch is an extensive, spectacular event.
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11064 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33161-7477 305-892-2435

Description: NORTH MIAMI. Whether you want to grab a bagel and cup of coffee on the run or linger over a more substantial meal, Bagels & Co. is a top choice. The fresh bagels come in numerous flavors and can be topped with any of several tasty toppings. Bagel sandwiches are a great start to your day, stuffed with combinations of sausage, eggs and cheese. Sunday brunch is always popular, with breakfast favorites like biscuits, eggs, bacon and toast served by a friendly staff.
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150 20th St, Townhouse Hotel, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-398-1806

Description: SOUTH BEACH. Tucked inside the basement of the "shabby chic" Townhouse Hotel, this slick, trendy restaurant has a relaxed, lounge-like vibe. Perfect cocktails and wonderful sushi are the top attractions. The menu features exotic Asian-fusion dishes such as lobster roll with yellow tomato and yuzu pepper dressing, live Maine lobster sashimi, and sun-dried tomato and avocado roll with garlic ponzu oil and green tea salt. Everything is painstakingly prepared and beautifully presented. A good wine list is available, but check out the interesting sake selection. Reservations recommended.
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19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura Mall, Aventura, FL 33180-2342 305-792-9696

Description: AVENTURA. This popular chain's New American menu features a broad array of dishes, from avocado egg rolls and Mexican chicken pizza to Jamaican shrimp and shepherd's pie. However, desserts really steal the show, and it's easy to see why once you've taken a gander at Linda's Fudge Cake, White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, Chocolate Mousse Cheesecake, and Coffee Heath Bar Crunch Cheesecake. An attractive garden patio offers the perfect setting for a late-afternoon respite, accompanied by gourmet coffee, good conversation, and, of course, one of 40 delectable cheesecakes.
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19088 NE 29th Ave, Aventura, FL 33180 305-935-2900

Description: AVENTURA. This local hotspot has a reputation for serving some of South Florida's finest meals, thanks to Chef Allen Susser's creativity. The seasonal menu borrows from the classic American repertoire and adds exotic Caribbean flair. Seafood is a specialty, as seen in pan-roasted diver scallops with couscous and saffron tomato broth, pistachio-crusted black grouper, and Meyer lemon-roasted Florida shrimp. Colorful decor and solicitous service also contribute to an out-of-this-world dining experience.
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1601 Collins Ave, Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-695-4550

Description: SOUTH BEACH. Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse works his signature high-energy, high-profile magic at this Miami outpost. The pale interior offers intermittent points of color, a touch of visual spice not unlike the menu's punches of andouille and hot peppers. Regulars rave about the double-cut pork chop with tamarind glaze, but you'll also adore quail stuffed with oyster dressing, a grilled filet, roasted veal chop or Creole bouillabaisse. Desserts are a rich, satisfying excursion into the likes of bread pudding with whiskey sauce and banana cream pie with caramel sauce. Remember to make reservations well in advance.
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2570 NE Miami Gardens Dr, North Miami, FL 33180 305-936-8333

Description: NORTH MIAMI BEACH. This fabulous seafood house, located between North Miami and Aventura, specializes in homestyle cooking that features fresh-from-the-ocean sea bass, crabs, lobster, and shrimp, all coupled with fresh seasonal vegetable sides. You'll feel as though you're dining in somebody's home, especially since the atmosphere is casual and friendly and the superb waitstaff takes time to make sure that each person enjoys the food. Expect long lines on weekends.
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1444 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-538-9908

Description: SOUTH BEACH. Experience seafood at its best at this wonderful, classy restaurant that's a favorite of locals. Large windows expand the intimate space, and plenty of candles add romantic atmosphere in the subdued dining room. The seafood is grilled in an open kitchen, constantly tempting you with fabulous aromas. Grilled Fish is always crowded, so be prepared to hang out at the bar while you wait. The excellent food, cooked to your specifications, is definitely worth the wait.
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2188 NE 123rd St, North Miami, FL 33181 305-893-5711

Description: NORTH MIAMI. Shirk the chains, with their standard, artery-clogging fare and try this restaurant for unique, healthy meals. Health food can now be found everywhere, but this longstanding favorite was one of the first in the Miami area. The diner atmosphere is appealing in its simplicity, and the menu features a rotating selection of entrees, soups, and salads. You'll find plenty of options for vegetarians, including veggie-stuffed wraps and the miso burger, but chicken and fish dishes are available as well. Whatever you choose, you'll want to top it with the famous Sun Sauce, a tangy topping that is a closely guarded recipe.
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17355 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami Beach, FL 33179 305-947-2000

Description: NORTH MIAMI BEACH. Across the United States, this popular chain tempts thousands upon thousands of taste buds. The inviting interior features dark wood paneling and booth seating, and the extensive menu offers something for everyone, from mouthwatering veggie burgers to juicy, oak-fired steaks. If you're too hungry to wait for your main course, try Houston's famous spinach dip ­ so good you may have to place a second order! During after-work hours, Houston's bar attracts quite a crowd, so be sure to arrive early if you hope to score a seat. Business casual attire. Reservations not accepted.
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1787 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-531-7007

Description: SOUTH BEACH. This casually chic lunchtime favorite has numerous local fans, including Janet Reno and other local politicians and business people. Ideal for sealing a business deal, this sophisticated restaurant has a retro appeal and is full of quirky touches ­ for example, hard-boiled eggs are provided as complimentary snacks. The thin-crust pizzas are extremely popular, as is the signature meatloaf. Mussels in ginger-garlic sauce are a more upscale option. A great wine list and a subdued, off-the-beaten-track location makes this one worth seeking out for a quiet yet satisfying meal. Reservations recommended.
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130 NE 40th St, Atlas Plaza, Miami, FL 33137 305-573-5550

Description: DESIGN DISTRICT. Fresh produce enhances the fine fare served at this contemporary restaurant, and varied serving sizes, ranging from small to extra-large ensure that you get just enough to satisfy your appetite. The only problem here is that you might have too many creative choices, from wood roasted sweet onion filled with ground lamb and apricots to crispy beef cheek with whipped celeriac, celery salad and chocolate reduction. A comfortable bar, offering wine by the glass, beer and cocktails, is an additional draw. Valet parking available Wed-Sun after 6pm, $12.
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700 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-532-6643

Description: SOUTH BEACH. This outdoor cafe doesn't draw quite as large a crowd as News Cafe, which makes it a better choice for business meals or for those who would rather converse than people-watch. The comfortable outdoor seating area still affords a bustling view and is surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon and late evening, regulars come in for creamy frozen coffee concoctions in a variety of tasty flavors. The rich frozen mocha is a top-seller. The rotating selection of Italian-style mini-pastries makes the perfect accompaniment. There is a nice lunch menu as well. No reservations.
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11052 Biscayne Blvd, North Miami, FL 33161 305-893-4211

Description: NORTH MIAMI. Floridian influence is reflected in the offerings of this eclectic kitchen, where "chips and dip" refers to an intriguing dish of yucca chips with hot pepper crème, charred onion yogurt and tomato-herb purée. Among other tasty works is the tomato tower, composed of beefsteak tomatoes, sliced prosciutto, goat cheese brulee, roast garlic-pine nut vinaigrette and crispy onion rings. Mains offer creative spins on steak, fish and vegetarian fare. Delicate accents, from stained glass windows to antique décor to custom Italian molding, enhance the beautiful dining room.
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20475 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33180 305-937-2777

Description: AVENTURA. Local chef Scott Fredel has opted for a relaxed atmosphere at stylish, upscale Pilar. Hardwood floors, comfortable seating and original art give the restaurant a modern bistro feel that completely belies its strip-mall location. Floribbean seafood is the specialty, prepared with a deft hand and perky island flavors. Try seared mahi mahi, sautéed yellowtail snapper or fried conch with hearts of palm slaw, and wrap things up with moist chocolate chip banana cake. Affordable wines are a great boon, as is early-bird dining from 5pm to 6pm.
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2214 NE 123rd St, Miami, FL 33181 305-891-3312

Description: NORTH MIAMI. This is the place to go for authentic Middle Eastern and Jewish food. Everything at this friendly kosher deli is homemade with the finest and freshest ingredients available. Try Sara's Special Breakfast, which features the works: scrambled eggs, French toast, home fries, chalee roll and baygels (that's how they spell it), juice and coffee. Satisfy your a.m. sweet tooth with fabulous mini-Danishes, challah or traditional rugelach, an authentic kosher pastry. Or go with classic baygels spread with cream cheese and hand-sliced Norwegian salmon. The casual environment and quirky sense of humor have made this a local favorite.
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210 23rd St, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-672-0778

Description: SOUTH BEACH. Dark woods, brick walls, the glint of mirrors and rich, warm colors soothe diners at well-received Talula. The brainchild of Andrea Curto-Randazzo and Frank Randazzo, married chefs who have gained much recognition individually and together, the restaurant benefits from perfect ingredients and careful attention to detail. This quality is seen in grilled foie gras with caramelized mission figs, black grouper with preserved lemons and thyme, barbecued spiced duck breast, and yellowtail snapper with sweet potato-wild mushroom risotto. Desserts also benefit from the chefs' culinary expertise, and a lovely garden patio is sublime when the weather's mild.
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432 41st St, Miami Beach, FL 33140 305-538-8533

Description: MIAMI BEACH. For American cuisine with a creative twist, try the elegant Forge. Chock-full of eye-catching antiques and vivid stained glass, it's a visual treat. The extensive menu draws you in, offering tantalizing herb-infused escargot, tropical sea bass with avocado salsa and prime rib grilled over aromatic Tuscan oakwood. Beef is a favorite, and the 16-ounce aged "Super Steak" has been named the nation's number one steak by "Wine Spectator." Speaking of wines, the cellar houses an enormous collection ­ more than 300,000 bottles of various vintages. Finish your meal with a gravity-defying Belgian chocolate soufflé. Reservations required. Jacket and tie suggested.
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9650 E Bay Harbor Dr, Bay Harbor Island, FL 33154 305-868-7256

Description: BAY HARBOR ISLANDS. Everything is BIG here, so make sure you show up with a hearty appetite. This New York-style chophouse has fashioned itself after the famous steakhouse in Manhattan. The fun, nostalgic decor includes clubby dark woods, comfortable booths and caricatures adorning the walls. Steak is the focus here, but the jumbo-sized Maine lobster tail is also one of the more popular menu options. They don't boast of being fancy, everything is plain and simple. But rest assured ­ the reputation has created legions of loyal followers who care more about savoring strip steak than spotting supermodels.
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910 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-532-8003

Description: SOUTH BEACH. "American cuisine" has taken on a new life in the past decade thanks to hip restaurants like Touch, a place that' aslo known for its flashy entertainment. But while the upbeat music, bellydancers and fire-eaters do their best to create a carnival-esque scene, they in no way distract patrons from enjoying superbly-done modern dishes such as orange-glazed wild salmon, palmita and crab-stuffed Maine lobster, and herb-roasted Bell & Evans organic chicken.
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846 Lincoln Rd, Lincoln Mall, Miami Beach, FL 33139 305-534-3600

Description: SOUTH BEACH. This cafe-society outpost has the same ownership as the ever-popular News Cafe, but this one is less touristy, with a loyal local clientele. Casual crowds, groups of business people, families and lone newspaper readers are common sights. At breakfast, the menu features traditional eggs Benedict, heart-healthy egg white omelets served with fruit salad, and zesty eggs Florentine. Later in the day, the cookie platter, which features six hockey puck-sized varieties, is a fan favorite. In the evening, the upstairs jazz club is a swinging place to mingle.
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17190 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33160 305-947-4581

Description: NORTH MIAMI BEACH. This casual dining place offers savory comfort-food fare, especially Jewish specialties like tasty potato pancakes and lox, eggs and onions. Fresh-baked bread is much sought-after by locals, and chewy bagels are among the best in town. Sit at the bustling lunch counter, or settle into the kitschy vinyl booths in the sprawling dining room, which is decorated in trendy '70s-style, complete with animated snowbirds. Breakfast is popular, so expect a cacophonous crowd. Dessert is can't-miss, and the delectable assortment includes amazing strawberry cheesecake and a fantastic chocolate bobka, all made in-house.
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