Miami’s dining scene keeps getting harder to keep up with. Here are seven spots, grouped by the kind of night you’re planning.

When you’re bringing a crowd

Anthony’s Runway 84
This old-school Italian American spot runs like a New York supper club: dapper waiters, red sauce, and portions big enough to feed the table twice over. The spicy rigatoni and chicken parm are the standbys. Things get rowdier as the evening goes on, with live music filling the room, so book the 5 p.m. slot if you want to actually talk. Save room for the pistachio cake. It’s enormous.

Americana Kitchen al Loews Coral Gables Hotel
The hotel restaurant now serves Sunday brunch, and it’s built for groups. Split the chilled seafood tower and a few mains, get a tree of espresso martinis for the table, and finish with soft serve made tableside. It’s a strong pick for birthdays or a weekend catch-up with friends.

When the atmosphere matters as much as the food

Sexy Fish
Sculpture, music, and over-the-top design make this a full-on experience. The grilled lobster, salmon teriyaki, and kimchi fried rice are all good, but the caramelized lamb cutlets are the standout: rich and meltingly soft. The mocktail list is good too. Make a point of visiting the restroom, which is as elaborately decorated as the dining room.

Bagatelle
Riverfront dining in Miami can feel like it’s only for special occasions, but Bagatelle makes a case for going more often. The plates are beautifully composed, the space moves easily between indoors and out, and boats drift past on the Miami River while you eat.

When you just want great food

Beauty & The Butcher
This one is getting a lot of buzz, and it has earned it. Start with the beef tartare, then go for the pork chop or any of the steaks. Don’t skip the fries, which rank among the city’s best, or the chocolate cake for dessert.

Tâm Tâm
This is a Vietnamese-leaning menu full of bright, grill-kissed cooking. Highlights include roasted prawns, enoki, frog legs, a remarkably delicate scallop crudo, and a whole charred branzino served with fresh herbs and punchy sauces like a serrano-lime-mint hot sauce. The staff is warm and chatty, and you’ll want to come back soon.

Walrus Rodeo
This is a relaxed, easy-parking spot for catching up with friends who like to eat. Order the Leek and Geeks pizza and whatever seasonal stracciatella is on offer. A recent version came with wood-fired bread, snap peas, and Meyer lemon.

Source: Resy