Leave it to Miami to make steak sexy again: Sunny’s, the just-reopened stunner in the city’s Little River neighborhood, has officially topped Robb Report’s list of the 10 Best New Restaurants in America—and yes, it’s worth the hype (and the valet).
What started as a pandemic pop-up has returned as a full-fledged dining experience, backed by Jaguar Sun alums Will Thompson and Carey Hynes. The duo, along with Executive Chef Aaron Brooks, have created a modern steakhouse that’s equal parts Miami glam, Palm Beach nostalgia and culinary firepower.
From the outside, Sunny’s is easy to miss: ivy-covered walls, a low-slung building and no sign in sight. But step through the gate and you’re instantly transported. The courtyard, shaded by a grand banyan tree, opens into a plush, Art Deco-inspired dining room where martinis clink and steak knives flash.
The vibe may be effortlessly chic, but Sunny’s really earns its stripes when it comes to the food. The steaks are cooked over a live oak fire and range from a 10-ounce prime hanger to a jaw-dropping 32-ounce Australian Wagyu ribeye (and for $260, it had better be life-changing). There’s a deep raw bar, luxurious pastas like corn and blue crab agnolotti in saffron broth and mains that range from spice-crusted duck breast to grouper with spiced carrot butter. Sides are dialed-up comfort classics: russet potatoes fried in chicken fat, creamed spinach, Parker House rolls with honey butter.
Drinks are just as thoughtful. Beverage director Will Thompson has revived cult favorites from Jaguar Sun (hello, Green Ghoul) while adding a “choose-your-own-martini” menu and low-ABV options. The wine list spans both prestigious and obscure regions (think Burgundy to the Canary Islands) and dessert wines and coffee service round out the night.
Designed by Amy Butchko of The Springs Collective, the new space cleverly marries industrial Miami grit with Palm Beach Regency flair. A 50-seat private dining room, complete with a Herzog-inspired mural, is ready for your next birthday, brand dinner or spontaneous group splurge.
Hot tip: Reservations are essential for the dining room and courtyard; the bar is walk-in only. But if Robb Report says it’s the best in the country, don’t be surprised if there’s a wait.