A spectacular, open white marble kitchen, an outstanding raw bar, and a splendid bay view through the floor-to-ceiling windows all compete for attention as you enter the elegant Azul in Miami's Mandarin Oriental hotel. As magnificent as it is, however, the atmosphere is surpassed by the outstanding food and exceptional service. Chef Clay Conley incorporates local produce into his diverse cuisine, blending Mediterranean flavors with Asian influences as in the grilled lamb with harrisa or the A Study in Tuna roll. The award-winning wine list offers both classic vintages and boutique wines, while a variety of domestic and imported cheeses along with pastry chef Patrick Lassaque's light soufflés and celestial tarts offer a fitting conclusion to the meal. Dress is "smart elegant." Reservations suggested. Full bar. Serving dinner Mon–Sat. Closed Sun.
Where The Locals Eat rating
Best Hotel Restauran
Best Mediterranean
Top 100 Restaurant, Miami
"Chef Clay Conley's diverse cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean flavors with Asian influences. A magnificent white marble open kitchen and raw bar vie for your attention with the floor to ceiling windows that showcase the picturesque bay views. Once the food arrives however, your attention is sure to be captured by the dishes. "
– Azul website
"A gastronomic gem. The wine program remains one of the very best, an award-winning mix of classic vintages, current releases, and touted boutique wineries."
—Miami New Times
"One of Miami's sexiest hotel restaurants. Bold, multi-faceted dishes with a ... rustic flair. The simple, feng shuied dining room with elements of stone, glass, water and wood and the multi-million-dollar bay view remain a big draw, but it is the service that would make me a repeat, expense-account customer."
—Miami Herald
How others rate Azul
Zagat 2009
26 food rating (extraordinary to perfection)
Miami New Times
Best Hotel Restaurant, 2009 Critics' Poll
Miami Herald
*** (of 4)