Story and Photography by Dina Paolella
With its modern flair and hedonistic vibe, Miami stands tall as a dream destination. The metropolis, home to over 3 million residents, swelled to nearly 16 million visitors last year, ensuring the city remains a captivating playground packed with activities for every taste.
Whether you’re speeding past Fisher Island into Government Cut while imagining you’re starring in Miami Vice on your Nor-tech 390 CC, shopping for the latest Daytona Rolex in the Design District, catching a Miami Heat game from the sidelines, or jetting into town for Art Basel and the Winter Music Conference—Miami is a vibrant hub for all interests. And when it comes to flavor, the city’s culinary scene boasts much more than just Cuban cuisine and café con leches, as many might think.
In the first issue of Center Console Life, we interpret “taste” from a broader perspective, showcasing Miami’s dining spots united by one theme: the ease of waterfront dock access. This simple luxury makes it a breeze for hungry boaters or irritated captains to pull up in their dinghy or Donzi and indulge. In a phrase reminiscent of Guy Fieri from the Food Network, I term it the “triple D water experience” where you can effortless navigate from the boat to the dock and then to dinner. Simple as that!
No matter which inlet you navigate, below is a collection of beloved South Florida dining spots that capture the diverse flavors and vibrant culture of the sizzling city, stretching from Aventura southward through downtown and the newly developed riverfront, ultimately circling back to the new site of the Miami International Boat Show on Key Biscayne.
The Standard
A stone’s throw from the lively Ocean Drive Art Deco district and the bustling Lincoln Road, The Standard offers a casual yet stylish environment, complemented by warm bay breezes, stunning sunsets, and plenty of opportunities for people-watching.
The attentive team of dedicated staff at this Belle Isle treasure will make you feel at home. You might find yourself wanting to drop anchor and stay awhile. This isn’t an issue; the Standard has overnight docking available for those who wish to indulge in exquisite meals and Courvoisier without the stress of returning to the marina. The Lido Bayside Grille, a 24-hour infinity pool, and a Scandinavian-inspired spa featuring mud baths, a Turkish-style hammam, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation attract guests from around the globe.
40 Island Ave Miami Beach (305) 673-1717
Duffy’s
The original establishment, launched by two childhood friends in Lake Park, Florida, was initially named Duffy’s Drafthouse. Fast forward, and there are now 34 Duffy’s locations across both coasts of Florida. It’s a little piece of paradise for sun-loving boaters, whether they spent hours cruising the waves near the inlet or lounging on a pink flamingo raft at the Haulover Sandbar; Duffy’s Aventura is the perfect place to wrap up the day.
Spacious seating both indoors and outdoors, outfitted with more large screens than an electronics store, ensure sports fans won’t miss a Champions League goal or a Miami Hurricanes touchdown. For those less into sports, relax with Stoli or Stella Artois during the daily happy hour featuring 2-for-1 drinks, all while enjoying stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the gentle lapping of boat hulls. You can even dive into Duffy’s large swimming pool on the outdoor deck—what more could a guest wish for?
Duffy’s casual menu boasts a wide range of options, including award-winning wings, Certified Angus Beef, grilled entrees, rice bowls, and a variety of soups and salads, and it’s hard to beat the seared tuna appetizer. Great prices, a kids menu, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages keep guests coming back for more.
3969 N.E 163rd St. Intracoastal Mall (305) 760-2124
Zuma
Founded in London in 2002 by renowned chef Rainer Becker and stylish restaurant entrepreneur Arjun Waney, Zuma is a modern Japanese dining experience located downtown at the Kimpton Epic hotel, celebrated for its glamorous interpretation of izakaya—Japanese pub-style dining featuring small plates paired with drinks. Discerning diners can expect a high bill but are promised a delightful sampling of exceptional culinary creations.
Featuring a wide selection of robata (charcoal grilled) dishes, tempura options, vegetarian choices, along with beloved sushi, sashimi, and maki specialties, guests often describe the Zuma dining experience as transformative. Don’t miss out on the weekend brunch with bottomless cocktails, live jazz, and available in three tiers: classic, signature, or premium (with a truffle shave garnish). Due to its immense popularity, it’s wise to book a reservation before arriving by boat; the attentive staff will ensure you have a fantastic time.
270 Biscayne Blvd Way (305) 577-0277
Garcia’s
As you step into the bustling Garcia’s Seafood Grille and Fish Market, a chilled glass display showcases a variety of the day’s catch and succulent stone crabs. Known for its unpretentious, old-school charm, it’s a place where you can feel comfortable in shorts and flip-flops. Count on hearing plenty of Spanish at this Cuban-themed “Me-ami” River fish house, but no worries, as English is also commonly spoken.
Once inside, options abound for seating—dine indoors, outdoors, or ascend to the upper level for a unique view reminiscent of being aboard a large tugboat. This seafood-centric menu caters to seafood enthusiasts, while meat-lovers may have to look elsewhere. Start with the complimentary fish dip and chips, then delve into favorites like clam chowder, conch fritters, or the grilled, blackened, or fried fish of the day. Don’t skip the homemade key lime pie if you still have room for dessert!
398 NW North River Drive (305) 375-0765
Rusty Pelican
While you savor your sangria or crafted cocktail at the iconic Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne, spotting lounging manatees or playful dolphins is common. After an extensive $7 million renovation, the restaurant now offers a fresh ambiance and 360-degree panoramic views of Miami’s stunning skyline from any vantage point. The update also features a chic, temperature-controlled glass corridor for wine storage, perfect for wine aficionados.
There’s truly no better place to enjoy the sunset while the dazzling lights of downtown Miami illuminate the night sky, all while indulging in delectable lobster risotto, ceviche, cherry cheesecake, or another specialty from the contemporary American and fresh seafood menu. Frequently praised in top reviews, the Rusty Pelican has earned accolades for its brunch, attracting large crowds on Saturdays and Sundays, so make your reservation to secure a table.
3201 Rickenbacker Causeway Key Biscayne (305) 361-3818
Monty’s Sunset
Monty’s Sunset is conveniently located just a few blocks from the sandy shores of South Beach and the congested MacArthur Causeway. Renowned for its pristine location at the Miami Beach Marina, locals, water-sports enthusiasts, and boaters can enjoy a laid-back, vacation-like atmosphere while taking in the vibrant sunset behind the downtown skyline.
With happy hour specials from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., a refreshing pool at the heart of the patio, and live music nights where you can sing along to feel-good tunes, Monty’s Sunset creates an unforgettable visitor experience. The menu features budget-friendly options, delicious soups, salads, sandwiches, sushi, and main dishes like baby back ribs and mango mahi mahi. Their floating dock allows for 90-minute “parking” with proper validation at the Miami Beach Marina.
[You might think Monty’s is actually located across town, and you’d be right! Established in 1969 and often called where “Coconut Grove Meets the Bay,” the original Monty’s Rawbar can be found further south at 2550 S Bayshore Drive. To dock at the Coconut Grove location, it’s recommended to contact Prime Marina ahead of time at (305) 856-3992]
300 Alton Road, Miami Beach (305) 672-1148