Miami may be having a little cold snap right now, but wait a few days and we’ll be right back to our gorgeous, warm winter weather. You’ll want to take advantage of one of Miami’s true winter pleasures: patio dining. A cocktail, a light lunch, dinner by candlelight — life under the umbrella is what’s it’s all about here. Palm trees and great water views are usually part of the backdrop. Here are a few of our favorite places for soaking up outdoor living, Miami-style:
The Standard – This hip spa resort off mainland Miami Beach enjoys a panoramic view of Biscayne Bay. Locals come here to have lunch on the patio deck of the Bayside Grill, where bright yellow umbrellas shade patrons while they tuck into Greek salad, skirt steak, turkey wraps or shrimp ceviche. The bar serves cocktails and organic, bio-dynamic wines.
Smith & Wollensky – Watch the cruise ships sail out to sea around 4 p.m. several times a week from this steakhouse located adjacent to one of Miami Beach’s prettiest parks. South Pointe Park attracts dog walkers, families out for a day at the beach, and anyone who wants to feel the ocean breeze in their face. Best dining views are upstairs on the patio deck, which overlooks the Government Cut entrance to Miami Harbor and the cruise ships. The outside patio bar is another hot spot.
Blue Marlin Fish House – Laid back is the best description of this tiny open-air restaurant located in Oleta State Park in North Miami Beach. There’s a view of mangroves and the Oleta River, and the place has been featured on the TV show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Regulars rave about the smoked fish dip and the lobster burger.
Scotty’s Landing – For budget dining with a view, it’s hard to beat Scotty’s. Located on the bay in Coconut Grove between the Chart House restaurant and Miami City Hall, this dog friendly fish shack offers live music and a local vibe. Conch fritters, cold beer and fish sandwiches are the highlights here. Lighthouse Café – Located at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, the Lighthouse Café is just yards from the beach and offers a great view of Key Biscayne’s historic 1846 lighthouse. The menu offers burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried calamari, ceviches and seafood dishes served with Latin flair. The snapper sandwich I sampled here was the freshest I’ve ever had.
Grove Isle Hotel & Spa – We agree with the resort’s web site: “Welcome to a private island resort that will distance you from the land and your ordinary mindset.” Yes, that’s it exactly. Here you can enjoy stunning views of Biscayne Bay from Gibraltar, Grove Isle’s signature fine dining restaurant. The atmosphere is romantic, secluded and private. Sit back, watch the sun setting over the bay with Key Biscayne in the distance, and savor pan-fried snapper served with ginger butternut squash and lotus chips. Yes, lotus chips…
