Living in Miami, Florida, I took time over the past years to explore Miami’s upscale, casual dining scene. Each restaurant, specializing in all sorts of fine cuisines, emphasizes enticing atmospheres and experiences. But great places do not always allude to great food.
Alongside great places to eat, Miami also offers all sorts of “World’s Best” experiences. As depicted by the greatest event in Miami, Art Basel, the city is a stomping ground for artistic expression. Talented artists and superior food, Miami has everything you need, if you know where to look.
My advice – do not fall into the Miami tourist traps. From spicy Indian food to elaborate tattoo designs, here are my favorite luxurious places I would be sure to visit.
Bombay Darbar
2901 Florida Ave, Miami, FL 33133
For the best London-style Indian food in all of South Florida, Bombay Darbar offers an exceptional dining experience with traditional Indian cuisine in Coconut Grove and Doral.
Every time I go, I try something different, with reasonable trust that no dish will disappoint. Two must-try chicken dishes are the Chicken Tikka Masala and the Tandoori Chicken. The Chicken Tikka Masala consists of tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce with onions and bell pepper – perfect for the first timers to Indian dishes, in addition to those of a more culturally refined pallet. The Tandoori Chicken, another all-time favorite dish of mine, consists of chicken marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic and freshly ground spices cooked in a clay oven.
Aside from the food, Bombay Darbar offers an inviting, vibrant atmosphere that blends traditional Indian elegance with contemporary touches. The warm lighting, rich colors, and elegant decor create a cozy yet upscale vibe, perfect for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. The service is attentive and friendly, with staff offering knowledgeable recommendations on the menu, ensuring guests feel well-cared for throughout their dining experience. Don’t be surprised if you see Mayor Suarez, Pitbull, or German singer Till Lindemann dining here!
Bombay Darbar also sells my favorite ultra-premium coffee brand, Queen of Versailles Coffee by Jackie Siegel. The richest, purest, and smoothest coffee on the market, Queen of Versailles Coffee also started in Miami. Outside from Bombay Darbar, Queen of Versailles Coffee is sold online, serving as a piece of Miami that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere in the world.
PierogiOne
900 Biscayne Blvd # R-105 Miami, FL 33132
On the more unique side of dining experiences, PierogiOne specializes in crafting homemade, high-quality Pierogi, from sweet to savory, boiled to pan-fried. Made from all-natural ingredients, it’s great for a quick lunch or a casual get-together with friends. The pierogi are made fresh daily with tried-and-true recipes from a variety of cultural cuisines.
A personal favorite pierogi of mine is the Lobster Pierogi, served with a creamy saffron sauce. Located in Downtown Miami, this restaurant is a one-stop-shop for creative, internationally inspired Pierogi dishes.
Great for a casual meeting, PierogiOne also offers other food items, like wiener schnitzel and a variety of international soups, the pickle soup being my top choice.
Peony Tattoo and Café
117 NE 54th St B, Miami, FL 33137
Peony Tattoo and Café is a cool café that’s unlike any other, serving coffee in the front and tattoos in the back! They too sell my favorite Queen of Versailles Coffee.
An award-winning celebrity tattoo artist, Boris Bianchi, creates the most intricately detailed tattoos. Born in Venezuela, raised in Switzerland, Bianchi found his love for tattooing when he moved to Miami. With over 15 years of experience, Bianchi specializes in blackwork lettering and fine line.
Whether you’re stopping in for a simple breakfast or an upscale tattoo, Peony Tattoo and Café is a must-visit place!
