2018 Art Basel Dining Guide
Samsara Cabaret at Faena Theater
November 19, 2018
Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park
January 24, 2019
Art Basel's Miami Beach inception began sixteen years ago...
and thanks to its gravitas, this internationally renowned fair has flourished to what now includes dozens of notable fairs and art happenings across the city. To help you prepare to view miles of art, we created this guide on where to eat, drink and recharge along the way.
Art Basel / Design Miami
Drawing thousands of visitors from around the world, this main fair takes place inside the Miami Beach Convention Center. This year, sip Ruinart champagne and look for your favorite local spots without leaving the convention center. A few to spot are Zuuk, My Ceviche, The Salty Donut, Della and Zak the Baker. Returning to this year's celebration of art is Michelle Bernstein with three different concepts; Michy's Chicken Shack, Restaurant by Michy's and Michy's Garden Cafe pop-up.
Cocktails
Whether it's afternoon or late-night, take a break from the bustle and head to Sweet Liberty. It ranked in 2018 World's Best 50 Bars and is known for its impressive selection of rare spirits.
Dinner + Show
Indulge in a refined dining experience paired with exotic entertainment. Every Friday, The Setai hosts an Asian Night Bazaar featuring a seasonal prix fixe menu ($55) combined with live DJ, contortionists and other performances. Or book an 8PM reservation inside Faena's opulent theater where Samsara Cabaret combines "mind-bending illusions," dance and pyrotechnics to create a stunning dinner show experience.
Champagne Dinner
After a day at Art Basel, escape to mid-beach and explore Ruinart champagne at Fontainebleau. Indulge in the brand's offerings at a special kiosk located at the resort's Bleau Bar. Also through December 9th, a special Art Basel prix fixe champagne menu ($330 per person) will be available at Hakkasan and will feature four-courses paired with three of Ruinart’s wines. Each course is inspired by Ruinart’s 2018 collaboration with Artist Liu Bolin.
Stubborn Seed by Jeremy Ford
Scope / Untitled
Spend an entire day taking in art and ocean views. There is no shortage of options to refuel in this neighborhood, so here is a short list of places we love.
Breakfast + Cafe
To start your day, grab a quick coffee and pastry at two charming spots- Pinocchio Italian Deli & Caffè or Under the Mango Tree.
Casual Bites
Three ideal choices for a midday break, preferably with a glass of wine... Head to the very heart of South Beach and look for The Alley at The Betsy Hotel (it's really in the Alley Way) and capture a selfie with the giant egg sculpture. Keep it healthy with 100% plant-based dishes at Planta South Beach, many ingredients come right from their rooftop garden. For a true local's experience, head to Joe's Takeaway, pick up an order of stone crabs, and find a spot on the beach to nosh on this South Florida delicacy.
Upscale Options
There are so many options when it comes to upscale dining in the South of Fifth area. At Stubborn Seed, Bravo Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford delivers art on a plate. At Lobster Bar Sea Grille, diners can enjoy an indulgent Sunday brunch priced at $49 including an "endless" choice of Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Bellini, Prosecco or White Wine. For carnivores, Red, The Steakhouse offers a classic steakhouse experience combined with unique mouthwatering touches.
CVLTVRA at ME Miami
Art Miami / Context
Now in it's 29th edition, Art Miami returns to the One Miami Herald Plaza overlooking Biscayne Bay. Include a visit to the Pérez Art Museum Miami where you can grab a snack or dine with a view at Verde.
Upscale Dining
Just a couple of blocks away, find CVLTVRA opening this week at ME Miami hotel featuring Latin-Mediterranean cuisine. BRAVA by Brad Kilgore offers a complete night out with dinner located inside the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. For a late night evening, book your reservation at the Rooftop at E11EVEN for city views and sexy vibes.
Rooftop at No. 3 Social Wynwood
Wynwood
Our city's beloved art hub offers some of the best of both food and art. Be ready to snap insta-worthy photos at every turn. For those looking for a more refined dining experience, book your reservations at Alter, DOMA, Kyu or Three.
Breakfast + Coffee
Share the love with our locals! Here are three that will get your morning started: Zak the Baker (certified Kosher), Salty Donut, and Panther Coffee.
Casual Bites
In the mood for Asian? 1-800-Lucky has you covered. This spot is also known for hosting late nights with top global DJs. Best bite? We love Les Banh Amis' unique take on Vietnamese. Think Banh Mi Burgers and Saigon Fries. If you're on the go, grab a taco from one of Wynwood's two must-try spots -Coyo Taco and The Taco Stand. We're talking handmade tortillas and mouthwatering meat fillings.
Beer or Cocktails
If artisan cocktails are your thing then head to No. 3 Social, Bar Alter Miami or Beaker & Gray. Wynwood is also home to some of Miami's best local brews - Star Wars junkies must check out J Wakefield Brewery or for more Miami-inspired brews head to Concrete Beach Brewery.
Kaido in Miami Design District
Miami Design District
Find extraordinary architecture and the city's hottest restaurant openings in Miami Design District.
Casual Bites
When checking out the Fly's Eye Dome, look west and spot the giant ice cream cone marking the home of Madlab Creamery where you'll find over-the-top ice cream treats with magical toppings. Want something a little heartier? Head up the escalator to St. Roch Market, an upscale food hall with bites for everyone.
Hot Openings
Groot Hospitality's David Grutman partnered with Pharrell Williams and executive chef Jean Imbert to open Swan and Bar Bevy. The space is chic and massive with indoor and outdoor areas embracing Miami's tropical mid-century vibes. Expect drinking and dining with a side of celebrity sightings.
Opening this week, Kaido is a Japanese-inspired cocktail concept created by Chef Brad Kilgore and mixologist Nico de Soto. This non-traditional dining setting features both indoor and outdoor lounges for late night imbibing.
