This holiday season, Miami beckons connoisseurs to embark on an unparalleled gastronomic journey. In the heart of this vibrant city, a selection of premier private dining experiences awaits, promising an exquisite blend of culinary mastery and opulent ambiance.
From the heights of sophisticated venues to hidden gems with captivating allure, each location encapsulates the essence of Miami’s diverse culinary landscape. This curated guide invites you to explore the crème de la crème of dining, where Michelin-starred chefs and enchanting settings redefine the art of celebration.
Join us as we unravel the secrets of these establishments. Discover why each one stands out, where every dish narrates a story, and the ambiance is as finely tuned as the menu.
Top Holiday Dining Experiences in Miami
Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club: An Italian Feast by the Ocean
Experience the epitome of oceanfront dining amidst the charm of an Italian summer at Lido Restaurant within The Surf Club. Once a fabled ballroom, it has transformed into a culinary haven, offering a menu that pays homage to Italian gastronomy. From tantalizing crudos to house-made pastas and renowned entrées, each dish is a celebration of thoughtful culinary finesse. During the holiday season, Lido’s historic elegance is further enriched with festive cocktails at the Champagne Bar, including the Pear Noël and Festive Cider. Elevate your holiday dining with a soulful Italian Christmas Eve Dinner curated by Chef Marco Calenzo, featuring a four-course menu complemented by a curated wine pairing for an enchanting dining experience.
The Vinya Grand Tasting, Holiday Edition
Start the holidays off right at the Vinya Grand Tasting Saturday, November 18th. This casual walk-around event will include over 100 wines from the greatest winemaking countries in the world, including France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria, Greece, Chile, Argentina, Australia, the United States, and more. Guests can sip, swirl, and explore a wide variety of winemaking styles from vintners ranging from conic producers to underrated gems to the next breakout star. Tickets are priced at $100 and $5 can be used towards a single bottle purchase or 15% off a purchase of six bottles or more. Tickets can be purchased at vinyawine.com/events.
ADRIFT Mare: Savoring Mediterranean Elegance at 25 Stories High
Launched in July 2023, ADRIFT Mare, Chef David Myers’ latest culinary venture, resides on the 25th floor of Hotel AKA Brickell. This Michelin-starred marvel offers an intimate private room, reminiscent of a luxury yacht, seating up to 45 guests. Designed by Michael Gabellini, the space boasts gold and silver-leafed clouds and stunning floor-to-ceiling views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay. For reservations, visit www.adriftmare.com or call (305) 503-6500.
Ariete: Unveiling The Cave for Subterranean Bliss
Chef Michael Beltran’s Ariete presents The Cave, an underground wine cellar for a unique private dining experience. With stone-lined walls and a hidden wine room, The Cave exudes Old World charm. Accommodating up to 50 guests, it offers family-style or customized Chef’s tasting menus. Located at 3540 Main Highway in Coconut Grove, reservations are required at (305) 640-5862 or www.arietemiami.com.
Eileen Andrade Hospitality: Fusion Delights at Finka Table & Tap and Amelia’s 1931
Celebrate the season with Chef Eileen Andrade’s Finka Table & Tap, renowned for Cuban, Peruvian, and Korean fusion. Perfect for large gatherings, its private dining caters to 45 guests. For an intimate affair, explore Amelia’s 1931 with private dining for up to 15 guests. Finka Table & Tap is at 14690 SW 26th Street, Miami. Visit www.finkarestaurant.com or call (305) 227-8818. Amelia’s 1931 is at 13601 SW 26th Street. Visit www.amelias1931.com or call (305) 554-4949.
BOURBON Steak: Modern Elegance for Holiday Parties
James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina’s BOURBON Steak, a modern steakhouse at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, offers two private dining options. The Glass Box and Tasting Room accommodate up to 14 and 30 guests, respectively. For complete buyouts, hosting up to 350 guests, visit www.bourbonsteakmia.com or call (786) 279-6600.
Freddy’s Speakeasy: A Secret Hideaway for Intimate Parties
Freddy’s, a secret hideaway at the InterContinental Miami, accessible by arrangement, provides an exclusive experience for intimate parties. Seating up to 12 persons, guests enjoy meticulously crafted cocktails and historic ambiance. Reserve on OpenTable or visit www.icmiamihotel.com/freddys.
Jaya at The Setai: Southeast Asian Elegance for Large Gatherings
Jaya at The Setai, Miami Beach, welcomes large parties and corporate events this festive season. With a Southeast Asian menu, Executive Chef Vijay Veena creates a culinary spectacle in a private dining room surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. For reservations, contact Setai Events at (305) 520-6234 or [email protected].
Sushi By Scratch: Michelin-Starred Omakase Delights in Coconut Grove
Sushi By Scratch, a Michelin-starred omakase concept in Coconut Grove, promises a non-traditional dining experience. With private seating starting at 5PM, 7:15PM, and 9:30PM, guests enjoy 17 elevated courses. For buyouts, a $25 per person deposit is required. Visit www.sushibyscratchrestaurants.com or call (786) 254-1204.
Toro Toro: Pan-Latin Opulence in Downtown Miami
Toro Toro, the Pan-Latin steakhouse inside the InterContinental Miami, offers two private dining options. Table 40, the only Chef’s Table in Downtown Miami, seats up to 14 guests. For larger parties, El Matador Room accommodates up to 30 guests, expandable to the lounge for 60 more. Call (305) 372-4710 or visit www.torotoromiami.com.
Vinya Table: Globally Inspired Dining on Miracle Mile
Vinya Table, the New American restaurant on Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, features a stunning glass wine cellar. With an outdoor terrace, main dining room, bar area, and private dining room, it’s perfect for custom culinary experiences by Executive Chef Mariano Arya. Call (305) 203-4229 or visit vinyawine.com.
Casa Mariano: Mediterranean Elegance in Doral
Casa Mariano, Chef Mariano Araya’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Doral, offers various private dining options. With South American and Mediterranean flavors, it’s an elegant venue adorned in soothing hues. Located at 8200 NW 27th St Suite 106, visit casamariano.com for more information.
Quinto: Skyline Views and Culinary Delights in Brickell
Quinto, the South American terrace restaurant at EAST Miami Hotel in Brickell, provides personable service and flavorful food. With indoor, outdoor, and private dining options, it’s an ideal setting for any event, intimate or large. Located at 788 Brickell Plaza, visit www.quintomiami.us or call (786) 805-4646.
In the heart of Miami, these premier private dining experiences promise a holiday season filled with gastronomic delights, unparalleled ambiance, and cherished memories. Make your reservations early and elevate your celebrations in the Magic City.
