Miami's Culinary Scene Heats Up with Exciting December Openings

Knaus Berry Farm has been a cherished institution in Miami for over 70 years, renowned for its fresh produce, delectable milkshakes, and, most notably, its famous cinnamon rolls.

After announcing a relocation last spring, the farm has reopened under new management at 16790 SW 177th Ave. in the Redland area.

Patrons can look forward to the original recipes they've come to love, now complemented by customer-friendly enhancements such as expanded parking, shaded waiting areas, and the acceptance of credit cards.

Operating hours are Tuesday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Yamashiro Miami, an iconic Los Angeles establishment, has made its debut in South Florida.

Located on the ninth floor of the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences at 159 NE 6th Street, this 9,000-square-foot rooftop restaurant offers classic Japanese dishes with a modern Miami twist.

Diners can indulge in offerings such as Japanese fried chicken with spicy gochujang buffalo sauce, Wagyu tomahawk, and Chilean sea bass.

The venue also boasts live instrumental music, DJ sets, and cultural activations, making it a destination for both dining and entertainment.

Chuggie's, a new venture by Chef Michael Beltran of Michelin-starred Ariete, has opened its doors in Coconut Grove.

This fast-casual, grab-and-go spot offers a straightforward menu featuring cheeseburgers, fritas, fried chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and fries.

Designed for simplicity, Chuggie's focuses on delivering nostalgia food done right, without the frills.

Drinking Pig BBQ, a beloved barbecue pop-up, has found a permanent home in Coconut Grove.

Chef Raheem Sealey, who began serving barbecue in 2020, now offers some of Miami's finest smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, sausages, and turkey, all infused with a touch of Caribbean soul.

Given its popularity, arriving early is recommended to ensure the best selection.

Mae's Room, an intimate cocktail lounge, has also opened in Coconut Grove.

A collaboration between Ariete Hospitality Group and Mae's Group, this lounge is designed to feel like a gorgeous artist's living room.

Bartender Tom Lasher-Walker curates a menu of timeless classic libations, providing a cozy retreat for patrons.

Del Mar Fort Lauderdale has transformed the former Dune by Laurent Tourondel space at the Auberge Beach Residences into a Mediterranean-inspired dining destination.

Spanning 17,000 square feet, the restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining, along with a beachfront bar.

The menu features dishes inspired by coastal cities in Greece, Italy, Spain, and France, including snapper and lobster spaghetti.

Brunch is particularly noteworthy, allowing diners to enjoy spectacular Atlantic views while savoring lobster Benedicts and mushroom frittatas.

Meli, a quaint spot in Miami Shores, offers Greek frozen yogurt in two flavors: sugar-free plain and berry.

Customers can customize their desserts with a variety of toppings, including fruit, granola, nuts, and candies.

This minimalist approach provides a refreshing alternative to larger chains.

Bagatelle Miami River combines the essence of the famed French spots—beach club ambiance and house music—under one roof.

The venue offers riverside dining al fresco, complemented by music and champagne, as well as the intimacy of a private villa with salon-style lounges and a 25-seat bar.

The menu includes seafood, raw bar offerings, and a stuffed potato with seasonal truffles and wild mushrooms.

For those arriving by yacht, parking is available to ensure a stylish entrance.

Shōjō's Dojo, Miami's first sake brewery, has relocated to 14 Giralda Avenue inside Threefold Cafe.

Owners Haidar Hachem and Marilyn "Mari" Orozco are on hand to guide patrons through tastings of sake and beer, sharing their passion and good vibes.

This tiny speakeasy exemplifies Miami's support for mom-and-pop establishments.

Operating hours are Thursday through Sunday.

Sunshine Coffee, which began as a pop-up during Art Basel, has now established a permanent location at the Esme Hotel in South Beach.

The cheerful shop offers coffee, smoothies, breakfast tacos, toasts, and a unique pancake cake.

Whimsical drinks like the Banana Baby (espresso and banana oat milk) and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch (made with cereal-infused oat milk) add to the charm.

Rò Steakhouse, brought to Coral Gables by Mexico's ViCa Hospitality Group, features prime cuts and wagyu, paired with indulgent Latin American-inspired dishes such as branzino chicharron and brie cheese ranchero.

Chef Marcelo Palacios, formerly of Prime 112, leads the culinary team.

Ava MediterrAegean, opened by Rivera Dining Group, brings Mediterranean fare to Coconut Grove.

Diners can start with octopus, hummus, marinated olives, or an array of Greek spreads before selecting their catch of the day from a display of fresh seafood.

These new establishments reflect Miami's dynamic and ever-evolving culinary landscape, offering a diverse array of dining experiences for residents and visitors alike.