The best steakhouses in Miami

Here’s a worthy entry from Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina, who’s never there but secured a team who can hold their own. It’s about a half-hour north of Downtown, but it’s hard to argue that it’s not worth the trip. The bold and glossy atmosphere makes you feel a bit like an extra in Mad Men. While Mina’s cooking techniques bring you back to the 21st century. Ease into the meal with something raw, like the majestic seafood tower or tuna tartare. Then move on to the main event: all-natural steaks poached in herb-infused butter and finished on a wood-burning oven. And the trio of french fries cooked in duck fat—which are served in lieu of a bread basket and available in unlimited quantities. Honestly, we can’t think of anything tastier.

A proper steakhouse that’s entirely outdoors? One of the few great things to come out of 2020. The folks at Jaguar Sun gave us this socially distanced gem at the height of lockdown when the chances of ever having a perfectly grilled rib eye made by someone other than yourself or your partner were very slim. Sonny’s menu packs all the chophouse classics, from a Caesar salad with actual anchovies (because that’s how it’s done) and oysters on the half shell to 70-day aged NY strip and an assortment of house-made sauces to top it with. Sonny’s is a temporary pop-up so you know what that means: book soon or forever miss out on a meal with as many choices for martinis as there are of meats.

This is a steakhouse your grandparents will love. That’s not an insult. While the crowd does skew older, Christy’s is just that wonderful breed of traditional steakhouse we don’t see much of these days. A loyal battalion of servers and cooks tend to your every whim with enthusiasm, and you can always count on the food to be as good—or better—than the last time you dined. In fact, the famous Caesar salad hasn’t changed in 20 years and is still made exactly the same way by the same person. Celebrating a birthday? 50th anniversary? Christy’s will make all of the above feel just as special as it is… just be sure to end things with the baked Alaska for two.

This rustic Argentinean hideaway in Little Haiti doesn’t serve looks, but it does dole out serious cuts of delicious meat. Quaint and rustic, the no-frills restaurant impresses diners with its quality churrasco, variety of traditional Argentine sides and a vast selection of stellar Malbecs. You won’t leave this place hungry or thirsty. 

Once in a while, a chain restaurant comes along that makes you forget there’s more than one of it. How else could a place this good be replicated elsewhere? Still, we like our Smith & Wollensky is the best. It’s got water views and an outdoor bar where you can sip your perfect dirty martini while watching the boats (and, once upon a time, cruise ships) sail by. Plus, all of the prime cuts of beef, seafood towers and everything else you know about this well-oiled machine are available in South Beach, too.

Argentina grill-master Francis Mallmann put down roots in Miami Beach with this swanky, crimson steakhouse. From the chairs and the chandeliers to the contemporary asado, everything about this place is supremely sophisticated. Mallmann is not only Argentina’s most famous chef, but he’s also appeared in numerous television shows, including Netflix’s Chef’s Table, and catered Gwyneth Paltrow’s rehearsal dinner. Though, if star power doesn’t do it for you, his Sunday asado brunch where all kinds and cuts of meats just flow, certainly will.  

Perfect simplicity is this true farm-to-table steakhouse with a seasonally driven menu that’ll make you drool. Herbs and spices come from the restaurant’s own garden and you can bet that the beef you’re eating was grass-fed and natural. Edge puts just as much emphasis on its quality and service as it does on its product. The result is delicious, classy and everything else you’d expect from a top-notch steakhouse that just so happens to be inside a Four Seasons.

In Miami, RED South Beach needs about as much introduction as Lincoln Road or Pitbull. This South of Fifth destination is famous—and for good reason. Red’s reputation relies on amazing service and classic cuts cooked perfectly. Though the Maine lobster pasta never fails to make us rethink our meat order, we have to admit the 14-ounce bone-in filet is king. After years in business, 2020 brought us a refreshed RED in a new location that boasts ample outdoor seating and a butcher shop with ready-to-grill steaks to-go.

This is not a pick-up joint, despite the name, but a surprisingly tasty option along the tourist-heavy Lincoln Road. Meat Market is a consistent exception to those wary of dining on Lincoln. Quality beef is flown in from New York and Australia and the side dishes—say hello to gouda-stuffed tater tots and truffle cream corn—are enough to make you fall in love.

This is just about the most iconic spot in Miami for carnivores and those who enjoy a star-studded scene. Reservations don’t mean anything here, so park yourself at the bar, snack on the free bacon and prepare to wait to be seated. Prime 112 is one of those classic Miami places you go to see and be seen. Though the fresh lobster, hashbrowns and the famous fried Oreos serve as delicious reminders that the food here is, in fact, great. 

Plant-based eaters, these restaurants are for you.