Steak in the Grove

By Sean Ballent

Last Friday, when much of Miami had its eyes on the Fontainebleau opening,  across town, a different VIP opening was taking place. Famed New York steak house Angelo & Maxie’s opens its doors in the Mayfair Hotel & Spa in Coconut Grove, and anyone who was everyone (who was unable to beg, borrow, or steal their way into the Fontainebleau) was in attendence. If you recall, the hotel is also home to Cabana One, the luxurious rooftop lounge that opened its doors to much fanfare at the beginning of October.

The restaurant is reminiscent of a 1930s Cuban sugar plantation, with hand-scrapped wide plank hardwood floors and plantation shutters that filter the tropical light onto the custom millwork walls. A fieldstone spiral staircase leads to the upper-level of the 220-seat, bi-level venue, which houses a private wine tasting room that seats 12 people and features La Cantina doors that open up into an open-air atrium. Rich textures and colors create a balance of masculine ambiance complimented by a feminine elegance that is seamlessly translated into the diverse American cuisine.

A dinner menu features selections like the Coconut Crusted Mahi Mahi,  Maine Lobster, and Filet Mignon Au Poivre and Grilled Double Cut Rack of Lamb. Additionally, the menu will feature a raw bar, with oyster, clam, shrimp, and lobster selections. Lunch was some gourmet selections as well, including a Snake River Kobe Burger, Filet Mignon Bites, and Homemade Crab Cakes. And as to be expected in Miami, an extensive dessert menu is capped off by spectacular Key Lime Pie.