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“There is no city in the world like Miami — it has this energy that’s only possible when people from many different cultures and backgrounds are all coming together in a beautiful place,” restaurateur José Andrés, 56, tells Alexa.
The co-founder of World Central Kitchen — a nonprofit that recently helped feed those affected by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica — has 40 restaurants (one with two Michelin stars), five James Beard Awards and a Presidential Medal of Freedom (awarded in January for his humanitarian work).
A regular at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Andrés will soon boast five Miami eateries: DiLido Beach Bar (ceviche, tacos and burgers) and Zaytinya (mezze-style Eastern Mediterranean) at the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, Aguasal (elevated coastal Mediterranean), Bar Centro (pastries and light bites) and the forthcoming Bazaar in the Andaz Miami Beach hotel.
The Spain-born Andrés is now based in Bethesda, Md., with his wife of 30 years, Patricia (they have three adult daughters: Carlota, Inés and Lucía). The busy chef has already conquered land with restaurants in seven US cities and counting. Next up is air, thanks to a partnership with Delta Air Lines that will bring his delicious dishes — like braised short ribs with a smoky pepper sauce — to the skies. But no matter where in the world he’s soaring, Andrés always makes time for Miami.
When he does, you’re likely to catch him at one of these sweet spots.
Zaytinya | 1 Lincoln Road
“My restaurant highlights the culinary traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean, especially the foods of Turkey, Greece and Lebanon.”
“At Bar Centro, my team is serving what they call a Reverse Carajillo, with Spanish brandy, Licor 43, cold brew, rum and a tres leches espuma … it’s the perfect drink to get the night started — or to keep the night going.”
“A friend of mine, Michelle Bernstein, has created something really special at Cafe La Trova in Little Havana. The food and cocktails — of course — are amazing, and there is live music all the time. The atmosphere is electric!”
“For great drinks and atmosphere, I never want to miss a visit to the Broken Shaker. Even if it’s less than 15 years old, it’s become an icon in the Miami cocktail scene.”
Tacotomia | 200 E. Flagler St.
“The best tacos in Miami are from a great person and wonderful chef, Karla Hoyos. Karla is a superwoman who has worked with us for many years at World Central Kitchen.”
“A legend for a reason! Joe’s Stone Crab is over 100 years old and has some of the best seafood.”
“Not many people know this, but way back in 1995 (30 years ago!), my partners wanted to open a restaurant in Miami, and they picked Española Way. I came to help open the restaurant, which ultimately didn’t survive, but I discovered Española Way and I still love to visit, especially to check out the selection at Española cigars.”
Books & Books | 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables
“If you know me, you know how much I love books, so I am a big fan of the independent bookstore Books & Books.”
“It’s been amazing to see what they have accomplished this year at the new Andaz Miami Beach [hotel]. The architecture and design are out of this world, all built to showcase Miami’s beautiful beaches and sea.”
“If I want an amazing pool or a drink by the beach, I’m checking out the Ritz-Carlton!”
Versailles | 3555 SW Eighth St.
“You can get a great cortadito [Cuban coffee] just about anywhere in Miami, but the ventanitas [walk-up coffee windows] are part of the fabric of the city. Versailles on Calle Ocho is a classic.”
