Prime Italian - Miami Beach
Prominent restaurateur Myles Chefetz (Myles Restaurant Group) has Miami Beach on lock when it comes to hip, upscale dining. His first concept, Prime 112, was one of the country's first-ever modern steakhouses, and he immediately followed that up with Prime Fish and Big Pink. He's also thrown his hat in the hotel industry with Prime Hotel, a modern boutique property offering 14 custom-designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, and chic white and chrome décor.
With Prime Italian, it's all about modern Italian cuisine mixed in with steakhouse favorites, of course. Located directly across from Prime 112, the restaurant was originally developed around a one-pound Kobe meatball. It's still on the menu at $30, and comes in three versions: the Kobe meatball salad; topped with bufala ricotta; or grilled and served with polenta, tomato and shaved parmesan.
Kobe, in fact, shows up all over Prime Italian's menu. It's made into a five-inch beef carpaccio and served with arugula, black truffle pecorino and mustard vinaigrette for $55. It's also used as a slider. And, of course, you'll find the Kobe meatballs on a pizza or pastas like lasagna bolognaise.
For those who prefer the steakhouse side of the menu, Prime Italian has that covered with beef that's been aged for 21 to 28 days. Steaks range from an eight-ounce filet mignon to a 48-ounce Porterhouse for two. Prime Italian features a number of accompaniments for those who want to add a little umph to their steak, from house-made truffle butter to lobster Oscar chapeaux.
There are quite a few non-steak options on the menu as well. Choose from eggplant parmesan, Margherita pizza or angel hair pasta with fresh tomatoes and basil.
With Prime Italian located right off the beach, of course there is al fresco dining. There's also a great view of the ocean so guests may soak up the scene.