107 June 18–24, 2026 NEW TIMES miaminewtimes.com | browardpalmbeach.com Steve Cook, Aviv blends Israeli culinary tra- ditions with an airy, polished and energetic setting that feels distinctly Miami. The space leans into soft neutrals, natural tex- tures and an open, inviting layout that com- plements its beachfront home inside 1 Hotel South Beach. The menu reflects Solo- monov’s signature style, rooted in heritage but expressive in execution. A spread of salatim and house-made breads sets the tone, followed by dishes that layer bold fla- vors, from charred fish to richly spiced meats and seasonal vegetables. The experi- ence is best when plates are shared. Eve- nings bring a subtle shift in energy, with DJs adding a refined soundtrack that enhances rather than overwhelms. BEST HOTEL BAR The Champagne Bar at the Surf Club 9011 Collins Ave. Surfside, 33154 305-381-3333 fourseasons.com Step into the historic Surf Club in the swanky Four Seasons Hotel and walk into a world of old-school glamour. Yes, the martinis are ex- pensive, but they’re also impeccably made. The lush, emerald-green accents of the tropi- cal plants creeping throughout the space turn the hotel bar into a manicured oasis. Order the Chrysanthemum Old Fashioned — a moody mix of dry vermouth, Benedictine and absinthe — and you’ll soon find there’s no need to hit the town. You’ve got everything you need for a stellar evening within these el- egant halls. BEST INEXPENSIVE RESTAURANT Tacombi 69 SW Seventh St. Miami, 33130 786-698-3089 tacombi.com Tired of fast-food trips that cost $30? Ta- combi is a Mexican-bred eatery serving au- thentic dishes below the $10 mark that don’t skimp on flavor. Hailing from the beaches of the Yucatán, the space is bright, colorful and laid-back; great for a quick bite or a lingering meal. Tacos come on house- made, Vista Hermosa corn tortillas, filled with everything from al pastor to crispy fish and birria; each one balanced, fresh and consistently well-executed with prices ranging from $5.49 to $6.99. Tired of tacos? Try a quesadilla or burrito with the same tasty flavors, the most expensive of which is just $14.99. Even the drinks, from margari- tas to aguas frescas, match the same level of care. The staff is knowledgeable and genu- inely engaging. Between weekly BOGO of- fers, happy hour, a few locations about the city and a broader mission that supports lo- cal communities through food access and education, Tacombi delivers value in more ways than one. BEST INSTAGRAM-READY DINING EXPERIENCE Joia Beach Club 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail Miami, 33132 305-400-7280 joiabeachmiami.com Situated between the city skyline and the shore, this sandy playground was designed for the camera. Between the restaurant, the lounge, the beach club and the palms swaying in golden hour light, there’s no shortage of places to pose, pout, flirt or pretend you “just threw this on.” Mediterranean-inspired cui- sine and European-influence meet unapolo- getic Miami energy in dishes and cocktails that arrive looking almost too attractive to touch — almost. DJs keep the soundtrack se- ductive, cocktails loosen inhibitions and the whole place hums with an energy that leads to questionable decisions and excellent Ins- tagram stories. Whether you’re stretched out beneath a palapa, sinking into a beach lounger or thirst-trapping responsibly by the water, Joia understands the assignment. BEST INTIMATE RESTAURANT Otto & Pepe 126 NW 27th St. Miami, 33127 305-989-3181 ottoandpepe.com With wood furniture, low ceilings, fun menu design and an open kitchen serving impeccable pasta, Otto & Pepe is the perfect cross between a slick new- school Wynwood Italian restaurant and a dinner party at your buddy’s newly-reno’d apartment. The service is friendly and congenial, and the pasta-fo- cused menu is full of creative, classed-up takes on classic comfort dishes. Start with some Carpaccio di Bran- zino or Gazpacho Verde before feasting on Veal Milanese, Chicken Parmigiana or signa- ture pasta dishes including Maccheroni Lob- ster ‘Nduja or Ravioli Gambero e Limone (with ricotta cheese, Argentinian shrimp and lemon sauce). Don’t forget to check out the attached wine shop on the way out. BEST KEPT SECRET (DINING EDITION) Dando La Brasa 1836 SW Third Ave. Miami, 33129 305-456-2700 dandolabrasa.us Restaurants in Miami are swamped, so when you find a place that can seat you right away and serves incredible food, you hesitate to ruin the magic. Good thing we didn’t come here to gatekeep. Dando La Brasa in Brickell delivers big, satisfying flavors without the usual Brickell price tag or scene. The rotisserie chicken is a showstopper. Marinated for 48 hours in a house-spice brine, it comes out impossibly ten- der with crisped skin and just the right amount of char, served with a lineup of mojo sauces With wood furniture, low ceilings, fun menu design and an open kitchen serving impeccable pasta, Otto & Pepe is the perfect cross between a slick new- school Wynwood Italian
