5 best restaurants in the Portofino Yacht Club neighborhood

1. Call me Gaby

I put this one at the top of my list because it is the one I go the most often to. The outdoor décor with its flourishing bougainvillea and colorful cushions reminds me of the French Riviera.

It is located right in front of the Portofino Yacht Club on Washington Avenue and it has an outdoor lounge area great for happy hour as well as a seated outdoor and indoor area.

The food is delicious, simple and inexpensive. The little gem salad with shrimps as well as the huge tuna salad for the healthy clients or the pizza, focaccia, pasta alle vongole for the epicureans.

2. Prime One Twelve

This one is also walking distance from the Portofino Yacht Club but a little bit further, on Ocean Drive. This is the best restaurant in Miami if you are a meat lover. Their Bone-In ribeye is to die for. As a side, I usually go for the slow-roasted Brussel sprouts or the five cheese truffle mac. Be ready to wait at the bar for your table to be ready since this place is always packed.

3. Milos

The famous Milos is located one block from the Yacht Club at Portofino. The people scene and the food are the best in town.

Try their special lunch for $29 which is a three-course meal with Greek Meze, a delicious Dorade Royale and their traditional Greek Yogurt.

4. Smith and Wollensky

The best scenery in Miami. Enjoy the sunset at the outdoor bar while the cruise ships and the cargo ships pass in front of you. Smith and Wollensky in Miami is the place to put on your bucket list. Their seafood and meat selection is what makes it my favorite restaurant in the neighborhood. From the Portofino Yacht Club, you just stroll along the boardwalk and you’ll end up there.

As an appetizer, you have to share with your loved ones their flatbread. Simple and delicious. Their classic pea soup is also not to be forgotten. As a main, I usually go for their Bone-In New York cut with creamed spinach and hand-cut French fries. They also have a great wine selection but my favorite is their Sauvignon blanc from New Zealand.

5. Le Piment

This one is newly added to the food scene in South Pointe. Very casual but very good French quality food. Just across Alton road from the Portofino Yacht Club. My advice is to try the Escargots but if you feel more traditional go for the Ravioles de Royan. As a main, the chicken supreme is simple but very delicate and tender. Don’t forget the French fries! As a desert opts for their chocolate mousse, you won’t be disappointed.