Shireen's Favorite Things

The Dutch, 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139

My recent dining experience at “The Dutch” was so amazing; with its impeccable service, sophisticated food and chic atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite restaurants in Miami. I’ve always had great experiences there, but when I went to try their “Miami Spice” menu (which is just $39 dollars,) I was totally blown away. Although the special menu (which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert) doesn’t include adult beverages, I still had to get my Friday night drink on with some of their more popular cocktails.

The “Watermelon Crush” (made of zubrowka bisongrass vodka, watermelon juice, krogstaadt aquavit, yellow chartreuse, lime and angostura) is just as pretty as it is pink and I loved its interesting spicy aftertaste. The “Tiki Breeze” (made with russian standard vodka, rhum agricole, coconut, lemongrass, creole shrubs and lemon) was a big hit with my producer, Jessie and my photographer, James. It was a sweet, milky concoction we all passed around the table a couple of times, laughing and sipping coyly out of its cool totem pole-looking cup. Last but not least, the “Hemingway Daiquiri” (made with white rum, fresh pressed grapefruit juice and maraschino) was clean and crisp.

I tried two appetizers, starting with the “Local Burratina” (a summer medley with vincotto.) Thanks to Executive Chef, Adonay Tafur, it was almost too beautiful to bite into, but boy, am I glad I did. It was bursting with fresh, tangy goodness and it was the perfect way to start dinner. The “Steamed Countneck Clams” (served with smoked ham hocks and grilled country bread) were beyond delicious and was by far my favorite dish of the night. It wasn’t just succulent; the crispy bread added the perfect texture to the entire plate which was already exploding with personality.

OMG! The “Country Fried Chicken Drumsticks” has officially made my dead man walking list. I always ask people what they would eat for their last meal if they were about to be executed (what can I say? I’m a reporter!) Mine is usually some type of spicy pasta, drenched in red sauce and smothered in cheese. That is, until I tasted this plate of fried, yummy goodness (served with coleslaw and berbere ranch.) The “Homemade Ricotta Cavatelli” (with heirloom tomatoes and torn basil) was pretty incredible, too and I wasn’t even hungry by the time it showed up in all its colorful glory.

For dessert, the incredibly talented Joshua Gripper (Executive Pastry Chef extraordinaire of “W South Beach,”) really out did himself with the “Creamy Lemon Bar” (made with almond nougatine and raspberry ice cream.) Not only was it beautifully plated, it was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Definitely a home run in my book.

My last few Spotlights have been delicious, but “The Dutch” has a way of making people feel special and that’s really important to me. There are a lot of places you can get decent food, but GREAT food, along with EXCEPTIONAL service, is a pretty rare quality in South Florida. With just a few weeks left of Miami Spice, “The Dutch” is a must-do and it’s definitely one of my favorite things.

“The Dutch” is snuggled into the back of one of my favorite Miami properties, “W South Beach.” The hotel itself is stunning; with a mix of dark moody textures, off-set by white furniture and animal print trimmings. The art is to die for, too. The service is impeccable and the W Store is a must-visit. I actually have to close my eyes when I pass it so I don’t buy everything they sell (shoes, jewelry, clothes.) Love it! (my credit card, not so much; insert crying emoji here.)

If you’re eating at “The Dutch” walk through the gigantic, stately (automatic) front doors of the hotel and head right. It’s the second entrance on your left. The restaurant is just before “Living Room Bar.” The hotel offers a pretty speedy valet for the beach and they also have a gi-normous public parking lot right in front of the hotel. If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, it’s definitely walkable.

Dinner Hours are Sunday-Wednesday 7pm-11:30pm & Thursday-Saturday from 7pm-12:00am.