Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Surfside

Absolutely loved Makoto. It was our first time since they moved their location up to Level 3 of the Bal Harbour Shops. Super lovely, energetic, and the interior was gorgeous. We started off with the crispy brussels sprouts, which were so delicious that we put in another order. The truffle salmon was one of the best dishes I’ve ever eaten — it melted in my mouth and they did not skimp on the truffle. The dynamite hand rolls were out of this world, warm and flavorful. The spicy tuna crispy rice had the perfect crunch. Side note: if you like sweet cocktails, get the usagi — the passionfruit notes shined through in this dessert of a drink. The chilled house sake we got was also divine. The rolls were fresh — we ordered the caterpillar roll, the spicy yellowtail roll, rainbow roll, and snow crab maki. My favorites were the snow crab maki and the rainbow roll. We ordered miso seabass and wagyu fried rice for the mains — the miso seabass melted in my mouth, and I loved the mix of citrus and sweet flavors that came through in this dish. When we got to the wagyu fried rice, I was already stuffed, but it was delicious with the egg mixed in. We finished the meal off with the toban yaki, one of the most unique desserts I’ve ever had. It was a cross between a crumble and a sorbet dessert — the flavors were incredible. The service was amazing and we loved our server Helena. 10/10 experience at Makoto and can’t wait to come back!

I hadn’t been to The Palm for years and I wasn’t sure if it was still excellent as before. I went online and saw some not so great reviews critical of things under the ownership of Landry’s. But we went anyway. And ALL of us were extremely pleased with everything about the experience. The food was outstanding (salads, beef, fish, sides, wine!!). The servers were great! Management was very professional and courteous! And the crowd was eclectic and interesting. I will definitely be back again soon!

Excellent atmosphere great food great champagne overall excellent

Christmas Eve Dinner Menu, quite extraordinary! Foie gras, Bouillabaisse and the the richest Chocolate decadence. Candlelight, champagne served by charming professionals that inauspiciously transports diners to their favorite arrondissement.

It’s been many years since we’ve been in Miami. Tapas 26 is even better than I remember. Maybe the best food I have ever had had!