Haute Secrets: Food Forecaster Steven Kamali Shares His Guide to Miami

Over the past decade Steven Kamali has become the go-to expert in the Food + Beverage and Hospitality industry. Well known for elevating Miami’s culinary scene, this food forecaster has brought popular concepts to the South Florida market, including Naked Taco and Waterstone Resort & Marina in Boca Raton. As founder and CEO of Steven Kamali Hospitality (SKH), Kamali has built a leading organization providing clients strategic platforms and solutions for culinary experiences throughout the hospitality industry. Focused in two different subdivisions, SKH is the holding company for Hospitality House and the Chef Agency established in 2007. Most recently, he is working with HES Group on their new Hotel brand, Triptych. In NYC he’s busy with Hudson Yard’s Equinox Hotel, Marriot’s four Moxy Hotels in Manhattan, Baccarat Hotel, 1 Hotels in Central Park, Cut by Wolfgang Puck at the Four Seasons Downtown and more. Kamali is also an investor in one of Manhattan’s most beloved restaurants, Jack’s Wife Freda and the new popular restaurant reservations app and software Resy. Kamali is widely regarded as one of hospitality’s most notable resources for discussing the climate of the industry and can speak to trends and what to expect next.

Here’s a look at Steven Kamali’s Haute Secrets:

Where were you born:   Long Island, NY

How long in Miami: I’ve lived in NYC for the past 15 Years, however I’m constantly in Miami for business and vacation. It’s one of my favorite cities.

Neighborhood: Carnegie Hill

Occupation:  Hospitality Executive

Favorite Restaurant in Miami: MC Kitchen

Best Sushi: Sushi Deli at Japanese Market

Best Italian: Casa Tua

Best dessert: The cake at Macaluso’s is the best.

Best place for a romantic date: Pao by Paul Qui

Best Sunday brunch: Vagabond

Best place for a power business meeting: Zuma

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? 1 Hotel

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Bal Harbour Shops

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: The Vault

Best Spa: Spa at the Faena

Favorite Charity Event: Hearts + Stars Gala

Favorite Cultural Event: Art Basel

Favorite Cultural Institution: Perez Art Museum

Best Steakhouse:  I’m Kosher, so I would have to say the Harbour Grill in Surfside

Best Pizza: Lucali

Best Lunch: Market at Matador Room

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Soul Cycle

Best Massage: Lapis Spa at the Fountainebleau

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Uber

Best Museum/Exhibit: Rubell Family Collection

Describe your city in three words:  Lively. Enriching. Relaxing.

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore:  Art Deco Hotels on Ocean Drive

All-around favorite spot in Miami:  W Hotel

Best Aspect of Miami: I love the diverse people, cultures and experiences.