Our Version of the Best of South Beach (Part 1)

Best Local Website
MiamiBeach411.com is definitely the local informational authority on all things to eat and do in South Beach. We use the site all the time for restaurant names and addresses, checking out the cultural happenings and occasionally peruse the forums to get a look at what people are interested in. They’ve got some great writers like Maria de los Angeles that contribute other local coverage including writing for MSN City Guides and Miami New Times.

Best Food to eat while you get ready to go out
Jimmy’z Kitchen burst onto the scene in 2007 and serves incredibly tasty dishes from their small kitchen on Alton Road and 15th Terrace. They also happen to have the best and only Mofongo in South Beach. Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from fried green plantains mashed together with fresh garlic, olive oil, and pork rinds. I usually switch it up between one of the great steaks, the sliders, and any of the great seafood dishes like the ahi tuna special. They deliver and it’s quick too. With Jimmy’z in the neighborhood there’s no reason to run through the fast food drivethrough if you’re running late for a night out.

Best place to spend a Sunday Afternoon
The Hotel’s Rooftop Pool is a serene scene to say the least. Looking out over Ocean Drive, you can see the ocean while you relax and drink what’s arguably the best frozen mojito ever to come out of a blender in the history of the world. I won’t go on, but don’t leave South Beach without trying one of these first.

Mmmmm, Sushi…

Best Sushi if you don’t want rolls
Nobu @ the Shore Club has the best sashimi on the planet. Yellowtail Jalopeno, new style beef, salmon, whitefish, you name it. Your bill will be $500 before you get to the main course but somehow it’s still worth it.

Best Sushi if you want it all
Shoji Sushi is an amazing restaurant in the South of Fifth neighborhood on Washington Avenue. It’s owned by the same people that brought us Big Pink, Nemo, and Prime 112, so it’s no wonder that they’ve managed to nail this niche as well. This place is the all around winner for the best appetizers, sake selection, and tropically inspired rolls on the beach. Sit inside or outside, the food is simply perfect.

Best Sushi if you’re just walking around and suddenly get a craving
Sushi Doraku is on the Alton Road end of Lincoln Road. They have a daily happy hour with sake and drink specials and a number of signature rolls that are to die for. The price is right and the service is fast and friendly. It’s got a come as you are atmosphere due to the mix of people heading out for the night and people that are wrapping up a day of shopping on Lincoln Road. It’s my favorite neighborhood sushi spot on the beach.