cindyrob

Hello,

We just moved to Miami. My husband and I were planning to go to Joe's Stone Crab for a birthday celebration in a couple weeks -- but I've been doing some research online and it seems that maybe it's not the best choice. It would certainly be a big splurge for us price-wise and I don't want to go there if you can get the same tasting stone crabs anywhere else!!

So, back to square one. Where to go? Seafood is a must. Area/Location is flexible. It would be great if the price range could be under $150 for two including drinks.

Any ideas?!?!

Thanks,
Cindy

rjw_lgb_ca

Most high-end eateries have good seafood choices in Miami and Miami Beach. Specialists? My choices in the South Beach area are both reasonably-priced, serving stellar seafood at surprisingly reasonable prices:

-- Grillfish, at Collins and Española Way (across from Jerry's Famous Deli). Intimate-feeling room, great wait staff, daily fresh seafood selections, well-chosen wine list.

-- A Fish Called Avalon, Ocean at Seventh (Avalon Hotel). Don't be put off by the silly name; the food's great.

My fave in South Beach is Wish, but it's not a seafood specialist and it's pricey enough that you'd probably be looking at at least $200 for two, including drinks. The two I've listed will come in well under $150.

GoTravel

I think Monty's is just as good as Joes Stone Crab and not as expensive.

SEEDOG

Try "catfish deweys"..../www.catfishdeweys.com
or "blue moon fish co."...http://www.bluemoonfishco.com/main.html

stever

I'd still do Joe's for the scene alone! Go EARLY if you don't want to wait. IMHO, everyone should go, at least once.

We loved it there - it is crazy if you go at regular dinner hour! LONG wait. Food really was great, though.

Steve
Maryland

MikeBuckley

A few years ago I read in a magazine that the son-in-law of the owner of Joe's Stone Crabs started a second restaurant. I don't know if it is less expensive, but maybe the lines are shorter because it isn't as well known. Sorry that I don't remember the name of the restaurant.

Patrick

When people talk about the food at Joe's really being great, what did they eat? If they're talking about the stone crab claws, what about them was any different -- better or different -- than any stone crab claws you get anywhere for a fraction of the price? I'm not denying that it is a fun place for the "scene" -- being made to wait and wait while the special people get seated ahead of you -- if you call that fun, but what about the food is so special? There is nothing to prepare with stone crab claws.

LilMsFoodie

If I wanted to splurge I'd go to Azul or Smith & Wollensky, but I'll cut and paste a post on Joe's Stone Crab I made almost 2 years ago here.

"Author: LilMsFoodie
Date: 01/07/2003, 08:55 pm

Message: I will second Smith and Wollensky. The location is spectacular but not necessarily South Beachy. This steakhouse is located on the Government Cut (the channel for the cruise ships, etc to get into the Port of Miami). It is wonderful to watch the cruise ships set out at sunset. I recommend the chilled lobster appetizer with your favorite steak. This is heaven for those on the Atkins Diet.

My solution to the Joe's dilema is, go have a glass of champagne or your favorite martini at the bar and watch the silliness of desparate people trying to bribe the maitre'd. It is like a Seinfeld skit., You can then go to the aformentioned carryout, get your food, walk across the street to the park and have your meal al fresco.

We also love Nemos. It reminds me of The Ivy in Beverly Hills. Great Sunday Brunch, sit outside on the patio.

The trendy goings on on Ocean Drive are more for show and not for go, at least as far as food goes. It is worth paying money however to watch the young and shallow strut their stuff. If you want to join this parade you had better be at the very least buff and chic,or... if not, old and rich. LilMsFoodie"

SurfSide6

My vote would be Pacific Time on Lincoln road. It is very pricey so you will be hitting $200 if you go crazy. You can sit outside and when the weather is nice there is no better place to people watch.