Miami’s 5 hottest restaurants debuts of 2023

Miami loves a show-stopping clubstaurant, and Queen Miami became an instant favorite after its over-the-top black-tie opening party in January. The palatial Japanese-inspired spot (by the Mr. Hospitality team, of Bâoli Miami fame) is set in the historic Art Deco Paris Theater. Its extravagant decor—handmade Italian mosaics, a striking brass chandelier, and a black-and-white mural by local artist Gonzalo Fuenmayor—commands your attention the minute you step through the golden doors. The menu is just as decadent and filled with American and Japanese wagyu cuts, seafood towers, and sushi platters. Party the night away at a separate lounge or treat yourself to an exclusive eight-seat omakase experience on the second floor. No matter what glitzy adventure you choose at this South Beach stunner, you’ll have a night to remember.

South Beach locals were thrilled when this all-day Ocean Drive landmark reopened after a two-year closure in March. The iconic restaurant, bar, and newsstand began operations in the 1980s, and was a treasured part of late designer Gianni Versace’s morning routine. The recent reboot introduced a slew of new dishes, including piña colada pancakes and chicken parmesan (drenched in marinara and molten mozzarella tableside), though time-honored classics such as the tuna melt and roasted tomato soup remain—as does the original green awning outside. The 350-seat restaurant is a bonafide crowd-pleaser with a setting for every mood: Choose from breezy sidewalk seats, a table in the dimly lit interior (plus framed posters of 90s icons such as the late Versace himself), or a spot at the large bar where locals often gather for post-beach drinks—and some of the city’s best people watching.

After 15 successful years in Santiago, Chile, Indian restaurant Rishtedar made its dazzling American debut in April. In a city that’s not especially known for Indian food, the restaurant is swiftly becoming a sought-after Wynwood destination for its interactive experiences, which shine the spotlight on South Asian hospitality traditions: Diners are adorned with bindis upon entering the vibrant space and end their meals with a bowl of rose water, lemon, and cardamom, intended for washing one’s fingers at the table. Feast on delicacies from the tandoor, such as spicy charcoal-smoked chicken with coriander, or get one of the many plant-friendly curries, including a garlicky take on saag paneer. Bonus points for the gold-colored tableware, which adds to the fit-for-royalty vibes here.