The Fontainebleau Miami reopened its glamorous doors in 2008. Since then, the hotel has breathed new life into South Beach’s Millionaires Row. A marvel of architecture, this billion dollar ocean-front resort offers many amenities, including 12 restaurants and bars. Perhaps the most distinguished of these is Hakkasan. This world-renowned Michelin star restaurant made its American debut at the Fontainebleau and offers a unique take on modern Chinese. The food is very well prepared and plated all the more beautifully. Unlike Mr. Chow (the better contender in Asian fusion) the atmosphere at Hakkasan, manages to escape the stuffiness that so many restaurants of these caliber permeate.
After my experience at La Cote I had no further intentions to dine at the hotel. However, when this years Dolce Brunch (hosted by the South Beach Wine and Food festival) came along I couldn’t resist. A fellow foodie and I made our way to the resort and valeted our cars (usually $25 but with restaurant validation came up to $12). The service is impeccable. The hostesses and wait staff are highly knowledgeable about the served cuisine and the ambiance is very romantic. Hakkasan isn’t for your girls-night-out kind of dining. Instead, the atmosphere and partial ocean front views make for a very romantic setting. If you miss dressing up for dinner, this is the place to wear your little black dress. It’s surely a great venue to celebrate a special occasion. If I did have a single complaint, it would be the lighting. While I do appreciate the warm setting dim lighting can evoke, sometimes it can feel bit too dark.
Hakkasan is expensive. Appetizers can run upwards of $30 and entrees can cost you 40-80 bucks. That puts a three course meal at an easy $100 or more per person. Even if you have the funds, I wouldn’t quite say it’s worth it. If you don’t, Hakkasan also offers a 3 course Lunch Prix Fixe at just $28. After your meal, you’re free to explore the beautiful Fontainebleau grounds or make your way downstairs for a stroll on the beach.
Recommended Course:
Appetizer. The dim sum here is truly delicious. If you’re there with more than two persons Try the Dim Sum Platter $28
Main Course (Fish). Charcoal Grilled Silver Cod $48
Main Course (Sea Food). Stir-Fried Scallops with Braised Assorted Mushrooms $38
Main Course (Poultry). Crispy Chicken with Orange Sauce $22
Main Course (Meat). Stir-Fried Wagyu Beef and Assorted Mushrooms in Wine Soy Sauce $78
Dessert. Mango Custard $13
To Drink: Dolce 2007 (Though a dessert wine, it’s actually paired very well with all the aforementioned courses except the beef) $35
To Drink: Strawberry and Basil Martini $16
All images © 2014 Donnatilda Tabana.