Whoever said summers in Miami were dead, hasn’t had a meal in this city in years. New restaurants use the break from tourists to keep a low profile, quietly opening to compassionate locals who won’t fire off online complaints the moment something doesn’t go as planned. If you fit the bill—hungry, not a jerk, sweating through summer in the 305 alongside the rest of us—these are the brand-new Miami restaurants you need to try before season kicks off.
Italian in Wynwood: Sette Osteria
Finally, something good to come from Washington, D.C. lately: Sette Osteria. The restaurant’s first location outside of D.C. sits at the edge of Wynwood, boasting indoor and outdoor tables, a cozy chef’s nook overlooking the open kitchen, and a 30-seat bar offering daily happy hour from 4 to 7pm. Regional Italian favorites, such as cacio e pepe, Bolognese pasta and wood-fired pizza rule the menu. 2103 NW Second Ave
Coastal European in Coral Gables: M House
M House is more of what Coral Gables restaurants do well: large, open, beautifully designed spaces catering to well-to-do diners with refined tastes. The menu, however, is less specific as it draws from regions along the Mediterranean coastline, putting forth dishes like the roasted octopus, Spanish charcuterie spreads and Italian risottos. Joyce Farms chicken, the catch of the day and other thoughtfully sourced proteins are grilled in a Josper—obviously. 2425 Le Jeune Rd, Coral Gables
Japanese in Brickell: Katsuya
The swanky sushi restaurant in South Beach—and also in 13 other cities around the world—sets out to conquer mainland Miami. The Brickell outpost is tucked inside the new SLS LUX Brickell and features all the hallmarks of a Katsuya restaurant: modern Izakaya-style dining, dramatic interiors and a very, very stylish crowd. The kani crab avocado, crawfish shui mai and fried rice with wagyu beef are some of the specials only available at this location. 8, SE 8th St
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