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Azul Restaurant
Categories: Restaurants Asian Fusion Restaurants Modern European Asian Fusion, Modern European [Edit]
500 Brickell Key DrMiami, FL 33131
(305) 913-8254
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 6:30 pm - 11 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Upscale
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
90 reviews for Azul Restaurant
Review Highlights
"The Mandarin Oriental, Miami has us hooked."
(in 13 reviews)
"Azul is truly the definition of fine dining."
(in 12 reviews)
"The spice menu was creative and delicious."
(in 8 reviews)
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90 reviews in English
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Review from Richard K.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
9/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
WOW! I am ecstatic I chose to take my date to the beautiful and classy Azul for the Miami Spice menu.
Walking in, we were greeted with warm smiles and kind pleasantries as if we were A-list celebrities. We were shown to great seats with a breathtaking view overlooking the water and downtown Miami.
As we were sitting, the server serenaded us with the finer details of the Miami Spice menu. His explanation was spoken eloquently and thoroughly. While waiting for our three course meals to arrive, we savored every bite of the complimentary sampler from the chef and devoured the Jalapeno Cornbread. This was excellent service at its finest.
Soon thereafter, the appetizers arrived before us. My meal started with Sashimi with Cherry Three Ways for appetizer. It was a light and delicious delight. The perfect way to start off a three course meal.
The main course arrived on the set and stole the show. The Seared Grouper with Curry Braised Pork Belly, Lobster Bisque, and Hearts Of Palm blew my mind. It was perfectly cooked and so beautiful it belonged in a cook book.
Have you ever had a Ratatouille moment? Well, I had one eating this dish. Fireworks were flying in my head and tears of bliss were rolling down my cheek just like in the Pixar movie.
For Dessert, my heart was set on and Greek Yogurt with Citrus Zest, Honey Meringue, Sugared Figs. My heart made the right choice. Again, plating was a sight to behold and made me wish I had a camera to capture its culinary beauty. The Greek Yogurt and Honey Meringue were the perfect compliment for each other and added with a sliced fig, it became an explosion of colorful flavors.
This meal was well worth the price. Azul has reconfirmed my belief in the Mandarin Oriental being a first class establishment. -
Review from Jake L.
Santa Monica, CA
10/30/2011
Had dinner there on Friday night with a group of friends.
This is the perfect place for three types of people:
- Big spending men who are looking to impress their lady
- People who own jets
- Business travelers with access to a healthy expense account
We were the latter, and thoroughly enjoyed the meal. The service was attentive, but not annoying. By my count, our party of 7 had one dedicated waiter and two bus boys...felt royal.
Flavor and preparation of everyone's food was world-class. But make sure that you take advantage of the seemingly limitless fresh bread. Portion size is small. -
Review from Elizabeth R.
Miami, FL
10/16/2011
WHAT OUR WAITER LACKED in genuine warmth, he attempted to make up for in cringing obsequiousness. It seemed that every few minutes the man was crouching at my husband's side, whispering into his ear, and then some further disappointment would materialize. Let me explain.
We ordered a bottle of Stag's Leap Cabernet, but they were all out. The waiter recommended Robert Foley Cabernet instead, and then the cringing whispering waiter informed my husband that it, too, was unavailable. He recommended a different Robert Foley at "the same price point," and my good natured dining partner acquiesced. The wine arrived and it was a half bottle. Yeah, I'm not kidding, a little teeny bottle of wine for the same price. Funny? Right?
Time to order our meals, and my husband wants a steak. He asks for the NY sirloin, and guess what? They're all out. However, they do have a bone-in rib eye. Mr. Wonderful says, "Fine." He can be quite happy with a big, thick rib eye. No problem. The waiter offers to have it de-boned, but Mr. Wonderful says, "Don't bother." But what do they do? I am NOT kidding-- They served him some chopped beef in the shape of a NY sirloin. They literally cut up some steak and shaped it into a rectangle and served it to him. It was thin, dry, and flavorless; and it also looked positively ridiculous. And the price tag? The full $70.00 that would have been charged for the actual menu item.
We had tried to make a reservation for a table outside, but the outdoor area was closed. We arrived a few minutes late for our reservation and then waited almost an hour to sit down.
All in all, our experience at Azul was disappointing and embarrassing. I'm very regretful that I chose it instead of say, Il Gabbiano. There's nothing quite so lovely and romantic as fine dining done right; and there's nothing quite so bitterly disappointing as paying a few hundred dollars for an overpriced meal gone wrong.Listed in: Online Discount Deals
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Review from Vanessa G.
Miami Beach, FL
1/29/2012
Very pricey but great food well worth it. The service was great and the place is very nice
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Review from Bob K.
Miami Beach, FL
1/16/2012
Sorry, but I was disappointed. The service was very good. That is the positive part. The food unfortunately not. It is like eating French cuisine from the 90's: small portions nicely decorated at stupid prices. Unfortunately the taste was not what one would expect either. To explain: the steak was not tender; you needed good teeth to eat it. The salad was boring (green salad with a drop of oil and vinegar. Nothing else) and unwashed. The sauces tasted bland. The wine was equivalent to one that has only 86 points wine spectator. No, for $100 per person I expect MUCH more. Like somebody else said in a review: if you want to impress somebody, then AZUL is a good place. If you want to eat great food: don't go.
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Review from Bennie C.
Jacksonville, FL
1/1/2012
Great service and food. Come with Amex ready.
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Review from Diana H.
8/30/2011
I recently visited Azul Restaurant as it was my first choice in the list of participating restaurants for Miami Spice. If you follow Miami Spice you'll notice that a lot of restaurants don't offer dinner on Saturdays as it is probably bad for business. I think the fact that Azul offers dinner on Saturdays reflects their stance as a restaurant.
The first thing I'll say is that their floor is terribly flawed. It's dangerously slippery!
As far as the service goes, it's impeccable. Tables and orders are run so professionally that there is a perfect balance of being served and being allowed to eat in peace. Everyone has a task and they seem happy to oblige to your needs.
The setting is stunning with bay views. Unfortunately, the view isn't panoramic so it's key to reserve by a window if you'd like an exceptional view.
Azul is beautifully decorated; it is adorned with modern fixtures and touches, though traditional enough that it is effortlessly elegant.
The food is prime. With Miami Spice menus you are either presented with a limited amount of choices or a limited amount of food. Azul chose the latter and rightfully so. It's truly fine dining at its best. The dishes are ravishing, spices and natural juices come together in perfect unison creating unique and distinct flavors that bathe your mouth. Food presentation is akin to something you'd see on Iron Chef. The Asian and American influences compliment each other perfectly in flavor and design. If you live in Miami, if you don't live in Miami, this restaurant is worth visiting. -
Review from Brad B.
Miami, FL
8/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place holds a special place in my heart. I recently proposed on the beach area and then had dinner there. The staff was super attentive and extremely nice. They made sure our experience there was one to never forget.
They made the table super beautiful with orchids. The food was great... . Their motto is, quality over quantity.
After dinner I had reserved a room as a surprise for my future wife! It was an all around amazing experience. Guys, when you are ready to tie the knot, think closely about this location to make a super romantic night out of losing your bait and tackle! -
Review from Andrew C.
Miami, FL
8/30/2011
I went for the miami spice menu
Appetizer- Hamachi crudo- It was good, not great. It was three pieces of sashimi with halved cherries and a sauce around it. I was not used to the flavor profiles.
Entre- Kobe beef cheeks- Absolutely delicious, the softest most tender piece of meat I have ever eaten. It was laid on top of a sweet parsnip puree. Also had a carmelized sauce on top ( red wine maybe) that was delicate. Served with three pieces of veggies that were crisp and buttery.
Dessert- Coconut lime pana cotta with chocolate sorbet and a macadamia cookie. The pana cotta was really good, had a texture unlike any other pana cotta I have had. It did not have much of a coconut or lime flavor though. The sorbet was really chocolatey and good and so was the cookie.
The dinner was delicious, the service was friendly and polite. They also kept checking to ensure that we were okay. The atmosphere was dim and romantic, but it was a bit loud. We had reservations and we came about 20 min. early on a saturday night, but we were seated right away. -
Review from Claire S.
Littleton, CO
10/28/2011
I love this place!!! Hubby took me here for our anniversary. Such a good call. We sat outside and the view was just gorgeous. It was beautiful. Bay and skyline. SO pretty, SO romantic. I feel like it worth it just to go for the view and the atmosphere, but the food is also really delicious. We had the soup and their "breakfast" appetizer which was pork belly and egg and toast. Both were really amazing. I had the lamb cooked three ways and it was sooooooooooo yummy. The lamb meatball was my fav but the whole dish was just spiced perfectly, cooked perfectly, and so good. Tried my hubby's lobster and pork belly dish; how can you go wrong with lobster? But the sauce it came in was really delish. I love this place. Its fancy and good for a special occasion. Hope I go back here someday.
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Review from Diana G.
8/8/2011
Oh Azul, how I could get used to the finer things in life! My boyfriend recently took me there for our anniversary and I realized that I had never truly experienced this level of culinary sophistication! How could I have been so deprived all my life?!?
I've been ranting and raving about my experience to everyone I know. So here it goes: this place is fabulous! If you're into being wined and dined, than this is the epitome of it. It's a 5 diamond restaurant, allegedly the only 5 diamond restaurant in the state of Florida so expect the bill to portray that.
The hostess will show you to your able, someone else will move your chair for you and place your napkin on your lap, your server will take your order, the "wine guy" will serve your wine, etc. It seemed like they had someone for everything!
The plates are very small, probably the smallest I've ever seen. We started off with the crab salad which was excellent, like an explosion of taste in your mouth. Then on to the Kobe beef cheek which was also tiny but it literally melted in my mouth, oh so decadent! Then dessert; a coconut/chocolate concoction was also perfection and it said "Happy Anniversary" written in chocolate. They handed us a personalized card (our names perfectly spelled and how long we had been together) signed by them and the chef wishing us a happy anniversary. I was floored by the effort, details, and the exceptional service. We finished off with the Braida dessert wine, which was really sweet and fruity. They have a great selection of other wines as well.
There were a lot of couples when we went, the ambiance is quiet and relaxing, the bay view from the restaurant is tres romantic. If you need to impress someone, this would be a great choice ;)
Oh, and parking was $11 after validation, it might be less but we stuck around the bar at the lobby for a while.Listed in: Miami Date Nights
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Review from Adam S.
10/25/2011
Amazing place. Sat outside and had a spectacular view of the city overlooking the bay. Top notch service. The food is wonderful as well. A very nice assortment of flavors done in unique ways with an artistic presentation. The lobster and pork belly dish was superb. I also enjoyed the lamb dish (especially the meatball). It was boldly seasoned without being overpowering. This place just screams "fine dining," and while it is quite expensive, it is an ideal location to have a "special" meal in an amazing atmosphere. It's definitely a big thumbs up, and I highly recommend a visit if you are in Miami.
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Review from chris h.
Miami Beach, FL
12/31/2011
Very good service and food. Even the wasabi tasted fresh :-)
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Review from David G.
Miami, FL
6/1/2011
This is a great restaurant if you're into culinary aesthetics. The dishes are really well put together, but taste is just average. My $60 steak was the size of 2 chicken nuggets at McDonald's and was not worthy of the price tag when compared with a top level steak house. In fact, you'll most likely end up eating at a fast food restaurant after consuming these fairly small dishes. Even the ceviche comes in what appears to be a larger sized thimble.
On a positive note, the service was good as well as the wine selection. In addition you can tell all of your very cool friends that you ate dinner at the Mandarin. -
Review from Char B.
Los Angeles, CA
2/14/2011
If you are looking for a wonderful dining option with beautiful views, impeccable service, and outstanding food, you can do no better than Azul at Mandarin Oriental. As highly as I anticipated my meal here, it still exceeded expectations. Service was attentive but unobtrusive, the food was divine, the setting modern, attractive and comfortable. I wish I could dine here for every special occasion.
For those who, like me, troll these reviews for hints on what to order, allow me:
Appetizer:
1. The lobster salad was fantastic. Absolutely amazing. A huge quantity of lobster along with some light veggies in a delicious light peanut broth set in a coconut. I actually tried eating the coconut it was so good!
2. Less excited about the hamachi, which was something of a sushi prepared fish in a nice light sauce. This was good but at only $2 less than the lobster salad, not even in the ballpark. Not memorable.
Entree:
1. Seafood risotto: Sadly, the sea bass, my most favorite, was out by the time we dined (9:30 reso) so I "settled" for the seafood risotto. Um, everything happens for a reason, right? Amazingly good. Not heavy and rice-y like you might be thinking, but essentially a plate of various seafood (one jumbo shrimp, a perfectly seared scallop, some snapper, mussels and clams) resting on a small bed of delicate, deliciously flavored, plump risotto and sauce. Might even order over the sea bass if had the choice?
2. Veal chop in hollandaise sauce with crab meat: Ordered by my significant other and he said it was amazing. I don't eat veal but can testify the crab and sauce topping it was delightful.
Dessert:
1. Dark chocolate Something: This was like a rich brownie with another layer of chocolate over it and yummy ice cream and sauce. Not exactly sure what it was but it was delicious, all the more so with the illy (yes, illy) coffee served piping hot in a french press.
2. Spanish beignets-- these were great. They had chocolate filling and a ginger chocolate dipping sauce as well as flavorful salted caramel ice cream. Highly recommend.
If you are full and deciding between these, go with the chocolate (#1).
All in all, a most wonderful Valentine's Day dinner I plan to make an annual tradition! -
Review from sarah a.
Miami, FL
5/22/2011
This is the best restaurant I have ever been to. We took our sons last night, and I feel like I died and went to food heaven.
They just got a fabulous chef from California and a new menu and we loved our selection. I had an heirloom tomato and mozzarella salad for starters, then almond gazpacho, Pan seared halibut, and dessert was chocolate peanut butter mousse.The chef sent a few tastes to the table of new things he was trying and that was quite special. Not only was each plate a an art form, but each coarse was SUPERB!!!! My sons had an egg, bacon second coarse and it was incredible. The staff was extremely attentive and the sommelier was great in her wine recommendations.I would recommend this restaurant and rate it with 5 stars. You will be so spoiled!! -
Review from Lourdes D.
Miami, FL
11/16/2010 ROTD 8/7/2011
Came here during Miami Spice and like the hot mess that I am, I forgot to review it immediately after dining there.
After trying to come a time before with my best friend (without reservations) and being advised that they were completely booked, we made reservations for the following week because we absolutely couldn't miss out.
We got there a bit early and were tended to at the bar, as the restaurant was still opening. Didn't wait long after our arrival and we were sat at a table with a beautiful view. Our waiter was awesome (everyone there is actually quite awesome actually - very polite, attentive and helpful). I don't remember exactly what I had (or if they even have it on their main menu since I went for Miami Spice), but I do remember getting a complimentary "pre-appetizer" and complimentary pastries courtesy of the pastry chef. EVERYTHING was delicious though, so I feel confident in recommending just about anything and assuring that it will be delicious and delightful.
The Mandarin Oriental is also a gorgeous hotel, so before or after dinner you can grab a drink at the hotel bar, sit outside and enjoy. HOWEVER (and that's a big however), the valet parking fees are ridiculous. I believe the night we went it was $15 and we were there for about an hour since we made reservations and the staff is on point with bringing out the food. Soooo, that's the only downside for me. Everything else is top notch! -
Review from Linda D.
Miami, FL
9/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
I went there about a month and a half ago, should've written a review then while it was fresh on my mind. What I will say is that this a great intimate date spot and the food is wonderful.
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Review from a a.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 12/2/2011
second visit with friends.
oysters, delicious, well presented, very very small. stone crab appetizer, ok.
black cod entree, dry and uninspired. halibut, dry, overcooked. friends: sweetbreads, vg. lamb rack, vg.
service: intrusive.
deserts, attractively presented and very tasty.
i am somewhat disappointed after an exceptional first visit. this restaurant is expensive and should deliver consistently at this price point.
may try it one more time.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/15/2011
exceptionally good.
a limited menu, but each item we tried was prepared with skill and artistry.… Read more »
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Review from Stephanie G.
Miami, FL
6/24/2011
Simple, gorgeous, elegant...
Azul is the embodiment of the perfect Miami dining experience. Located inside the Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key, the restaurant feels upscale and sophisticated without being stuffy.
First went on a date and fell in love with the foie gras. It was so sinfully decadent that I felt like I couldn't get enough of the masterful appetizer, which came with a sweet glaze that was the perfect complement. My date went with the salad with a champagne vinagrette, and his fresh green were impeccably matched with their dressing. For the next course, I went with the rabbit (sorry Thumper), which I feel bad saying was incredibly tender and delicious. Come dessert, I had an amazing glass of sauternes (from their extensive wine list) and a delectable white chocolate dish that was plated with three different miniature choices. All were absolutely heavenly and an exquisite presentation!
Have been back since and really love their risotto di mare. Risotto can be incredibly difficult to do well, and Azul really manages to execute this perfectly. Not too soggy and not too firm, even a minute of overcooking can be too much. They have this down to an art, and not only produce a spectacular risotto, but they also top it with fresh and well-cooked seafood.
Furthermore, they have impeccable service and are happy to make suggestions. They are attentive, but also manage to not be overly so in an annoying way that interrupts your conversation with your dining partner. Makes for a great spot for special occasions, dates or a nice dinner with friends. It may be pricy, but the quality and experience are well worth it!
Clean presentation, excellent service and superb cuisine, Azul represents on of Miami's best, and offers a stellar view of the city to boot!Listed in: Save Room for Dessert, Miami Spice Superior…
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Review from Marc M.
8/23/2011
One of Miami's top places to be and be seen with a romantic ambiance. I like this cuisine with asian twist melted with those classic Mediterranean and europeans flavors. The touch of a great Chef. I like also the place and the view. Worth the price!
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Review from maor r.
Miami, FL
9/8/2011
Im going to keep this short and sweet and immediately offer that this review is just for the Miami Spice menu.
Service: Impeccable, amazing, can't say enough. You feel like royalty.
Ambiance: Modern, intimate, upscale, and with beautiful water views.
Food: Disappointing given all the hype. Read on...
Hamachi appetizer was bland but nicely presented if not just a tad fishy.
Papaya Salad with lump crab should have been delicious, it was NOT. Again, no flavor, just not seasoned well. Maybe they're playing it safe, but that doesnt work for me in a place like this.
Kobe beef cheeks-A few nice bites but in the end it just tasted like sweet stew meat and not exquisite or exceptional, but certainly not bad.
Fish - not sure which type, its the other Miami Spice option. It was fresh, and the sauce was nice with butter and wine, but again, not amazingly daring or bold. Flavor profiles just all starting to feel too safe!
Dessert: Had the Pannacotta and some hazelnut brownie type thing. Desserts were good, high quality but wouldnt be a homerun for a true dessert connoisseur.
I'll reserve final judgement for when I am able to go back and eat off of the regular menu. Miami Spice has a funny way of doing a disservice to many high-end restaurants I've found so, in all fairness, I feel one has to eat there as a normal diner before casting judgement.
I will add this, for the Miami Spice price combined with the ambience and amazing service, do not hesitate to plan a date night at Azul, it really is an exceptional total package! But for the rest of you food snobs going just to be wowed by the cuisine, avoid the Miami Spice menu. -
Review from Ximena C.
9/9/2010
If there is one place for fine dining that truely deserves 5 stars it's Azul. After a night of being pampered with wines and mouth-watering dishes I'm left satisfied and anxiously waiting to return.
Taking advantage of the Miami Spice menus, my boyfriend I decided to treat ourselves to a nice night out. Azul's ambiance was simply perfect. There was the right play between soft music and a little movement in the air. One could dine entertained but still hold a nice conversation without having to adjust either volumes.
The service was almost as good as the food. The waiter, apart from being quite funny, was at our beck and call. (It was a weeknight, though. So... I'll have to return on weekend let you know how that goes) The chef sent out a nice appetizer as a surprise and ended our night with a complimentary petit-four dish. 5 stars!!
If you have the Miami Spice menu, I highly recommend the corn soup, the pasta and the lemon dessert. Each one more delicious than the last!! Truely a fine dining event. -
Review from Danny J.
Miami Beach, FL
8/19/2011 6 photos
So I never review but this deserved it. Chef huff and his kitchen were awesome. The service was great martini spot on and wine was great. The spice menu was creative and delicious. From one young chef to another established chef hats off to you guys
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Review from Michael B.
Miami, FL
9/19/2010 8 Check-ins Here
Azul is truly the definition of fine dining. Azul and Il Gabbiano are easily the finest dining Miami has to offer. The service here is exquisite. You will find the wait staff very attentive and helpful. The food is mostly outstanding (be sure to let them know if it is not). Remember, fine dining doesn't mean sucking it up and accepting everything they throw at you. Fine restaurants want you to be happy and should go out of their way to impress you. Don't be shy, you are paying for it.
This is a great place to try when Miami Spice is going so you can sample the foods at more reasonable prices.
Azul has a beautiful decor, especially if you love zen settings, as I do. Sitting is outside on their veranda is perfection when the weather down in the winter.
One of the nicest perks to dining here is taking a stroll around the Mandarin Oriental after eating. It's such a beautiful hotel and is always a fun place to walk around or just sit and enjoy some relaxation.Listed in: Do Miami right
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Review from Dubu H.
San Francisco, CA
11/30/2010
Celebrated my birthday here and it was great!
Popped some bottles and made a wish across the water. Always a good time with good company, a couple of nicely seared scallops, and a chef challenger. -
Review from David J.
New York, NY
8/25/2010
Love this place. I always try to come here when I visit Miami. You get a great view, because you're right on the bay. Even if the waiters take a long time, which they don't, it won't matter, because you're in such a zen place with great weather.
The food is PHENOMENAL. Even if you're just eating something as simple as fries, they add their signature flavors which are incredible.
I recommend the sushi, and the hotel of course. Great place to stay always. -
Review from Michaela K.
Dallas, TX
7/2/2010
My husband and I went to Azul for our first night in Miami without our 3 boys. I will say that it was so nice to have a wonderful place to go to without crayons and chicken nuggets at the table! We decided to eat outside and it was such beautiful scenery! I was able to order a drink of Vodka Cranberry and mix my own! I also was educated on the best wine to have for my meal and it definitely did not disappoint!
The service was impeccable! Our waiter from Ireland was amazing and the timing for our appetizers and food was fabulous!
The only reason I did not rate this establishment 5 stars was because of the food I ordered. I am originally from Nebraska, and I ordered the steak for my meal. The steak was very dry and not 5 stars. I was very surprised. However, on that note, my husband had Halibut and it was amazing. All the food was exceptional and I would definitely go back and try it again. The atmosphere was great, service impeccable, and it was a great night to relax.
Definitely worth a try! -
Review from Maria A.
Miami, FL
8/9/2008 2 photos
How do I love thee... Let me Yelp the ways...
From the minute I pulled up to this place I knew I'd be good, I had no idea I was driving up to a new favorite. First the valet ever so nicely informed me of the cost and reminded me to have the waiter sign my ticket. Then he asked for my first and last name.
Upon entering Azul my friend noticed the small waterfally display in the front and the host an older gentleman made a funny little remark about us needing an umbrella. He then asked if we had reservations and when I said no he said Oh but it's Miami Spice, wait let's see what I can do. And then sat us immediately as he was only joking. Trust me, he was endearing.
Our waiter was fantastic as well.
We did go with the Miami Spice menu and all I can say is Bravo!
And of course.... the view is outstanding.
If you only do one place for lunch during Miami Spice do Azul.
Regardless though everyone should experience this place.Listed in: Top Restaurants, On the Water, Brickell Baby, Al Fresco
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Review from Doris L.
1/10/2009 ROTD 1/31/2009
Holy mother of sushi - this place is goood.
A friend was staying at the hotel and we ate here for the convenience. We stayed because we were unable to move due to an acute Asian fusion high.
First off, you can't beat the ambiance. We ate outside for the view of the bay, a lovely breeze - moonlight -perfect. Second - the service is impeccable- what you would expect at the Mandarin- but still, you can never assume. We were not disappointed - and we're a tough crowd to please. The staff was extremely knowledgeable, courteous - and quite nice on the eyes, if I recall.
The menu has a wonderfully creative variety- true fusion. There was a Moroccan dish on the menu I hear is to-die -- but we stuck to the raw fish. The Study in Tuna roll is as lovely to look at as it is to gobble up - and I mean gobble. The bottom line to great sushi is the freshness of the ingredients. Everything was -- from the avocado to the crab meat -to the caviar topping - decadent and luscious. We sipped on champagne throughout the meal simply because it was the perfect compliment to the food-- light and bubbly.
The Rainbow of Oysters roll was also out of this world - oysters - wrapped up in tuna, beef and salmon carpaccio. Beef AND Salmon carpaccio! Holy moly. My eyes positively rolled back in delight- and it wasn't the champagne kicking in.
Azul is not cheap - but worth every penny, I think. It is understated, sophisticated and relaxed -- and truly fine food. Give yourself a treat and go. (And don't forget to get a raspberry mojito at the bar -- heaven. )Listed in: Blind Date
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Review from diana n.
Loma Linda, CA
10/2/2010
Located in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Brickell Key, it was a little out of the way (we stayed in south beach), but if you want elegance away from the hustle and bustle of SoBe, this is where you go. The view of the water was beautiful.
Appetizers: Cobia tartare was refreshing and tangy.
Sweet corn soup was so savory with a kick of spice. the scallops were sweet and cooked perfectly. MmmM mmmMmMM
Entree: Grilled pork tenderloin was juicy and tender. the cripsy potato cakes added a nice crunch.
Shellfish linguini - nice al dente, seafood was very fresh without the seafoody taste
Dessert: GJANDUJA MOUSSE AND RICE CRISPY CAKE, Turron Ice Cream was like eating a Nutella mousse, and i LOVE nutella! yummmy -
Review from Rob C.
8/12/2008
This has gotta be one of the best Miami Spice deals at $23, and it's only Lunch Tues. - - Fri. Better take an afternoon off or plan some business lunches here now! It's that good...I was blown away.
Grilled Octopus Salad, Cucumber, Black Olives, Red Wine Vinaigrette, Mint, Caper Butter Sauce -- bravo, nicely grilled octopus with a perfect complementary salad
Salt Cod Fritters, Black Beans, Bacon, Remoulade -- good
Indian Fish Curry, Coconut Milk, Tamarind, Saffron Basmati -- bravo #2: excellent tamarind flavor, perfect fish curry
Braised Chicken Thigh Cacciatore, Ricotta Gnocchi, Wild Mushrooms -- very good, nice gnocchi, cheesy
(the entree size is a full portion btw)
Chocolate Hazelnut Bar, Semi-Candied Orange Compote, Mochaccino Drink -- wow that hazelnut is ridiculously good, a mix of soft and crunchy
Basil Panna Cotta, Candied Tomato and Lemon Olive Oil Sorbet -- the basil panna cotta with the lemon olive oil sorbet and pistacchio gives Michy's desserts a run for the money
of course, amazing views and pricey dinners, so this is a Miami Spice Must! Thank you Clay Conley, very impressive.
Valet $8 with validationListed in: SoFl Best of -- work in…, Top 10 Miami
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Review from Chadwick T.
Bethlehem, PA
8/10/2010
Ask for a table on the balcony...
You sit on the bay as you decide on your wine selection. A wonderful list that varies in price, allowing you to get quality for a decent price or splurge to show her it's all about 'date night'.
The menu will wow you from the moment you begin to read, fresh clean flavors that are light yet satisfying. Read along while I explain my meal and why you won't want to miss this!
Start with the oysters...it's a must have! Kumomoto oysters with a cucumber carpaccio, a black pepper mignonette with horse radish Chantilly and finished with Ossetra caviar!! It's clean and fresh and the caviar bursts at just the right time to release a slightly salty flavor which seasons the cucumber perfectly! It's truly ecstasy but don't share, you only get 4.
I went on to enjoy the beef tartare that was very well done but still not the best I've ever had. We received a little gift from the chef which was to die for. A deviled egg with an essence of truffle oil and sliced truffle on top. WOW. It was gone so fast, I instantly needed a depression med.
Finishing up with a surf and turf style meal that they completely nailed I was overwhelmed at the quality of food and service but couldn't get over the chic sexy clean lines of the decor. Large mirrors and wood flooring were just the start...a glassed in kitchen allowing you to see the chefs work made you marvel. nothing was better than the view though. This is definitely a special occasion spot. Slightly more stuffy then most places in the laid back Brickell Ave area but totally worth every moment of it. Extremely classy and like most high end places in this area, gratuity is included already in the check!! -
Review from Sean O.
Miami, FL
10/4/2010
If there is one restaurant in Miami that has earned 5 stars then Azul is the place. The atmosphere is smart, sophisticated, yet very comfortable and inviting at the same time. From the moment we were greeted, I knew that we were in for an exceptional experience. Attention to detail was given at every turn by this uniquely talented group of professionals.
Azul's cuisine leaves nothing to be desired and is quite simply the finest dining in all of Miami. Among the standout dishes: Moroccan-inspired lamb and a miso-marinated duck breast. The vanilla soufflé filled with a semi-sweet chocolate sauce and the equally divine hazelnut chocolate tart with rum coffee ice cream are to die for. It may be expensive but it's well worth every penny on those very special occasions. In addition, they boast one of the city's best wine lists and a breathtaking view of Biscayne Bay. Its location and ambiance truly make it stand head and shoulders above the crowd. Azul is exactly what fine dining should be. -
Review from Chris S.
Scottsdale, AZ
11/11/2008
My co-worker told me about this place and I just had to try it!
I was not disappointed. The seafood was fresh and the service was great. It has a great atmosphere too. It was not as expensive as I thought - but we didn't order more that one drink each.
We even went back for Lunch! -
Review from Holly L.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
7/1/2011
Hi I found Azul to be WAY overpriced! The menu selections were few and the portions were small! We spent $85 on 4 small pieces of tuna and a side dish portion of risotto and Evian. Not worth it in my opinion.
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Review from Jordan N.
2/26/2008 2 photos
I came here with not-so-high expectations. I left, enormously pleased.
Did Chef Clay Conley mature in his cooking? I honestly don't know as this was my first experience trying his food. Either way, he's a pretty great chef in my book, simply because food all tasted good.
Also, our waitress, Marcela, was attentive, friendly, and paying attention to details - a perfect match for the detailed meals that came to pass. She was able to sweetly rattle off ingredients of each dish without any assistance (and several times for multiple times) - and she was at all times charming! I got the impression that she loves her job.
First, there's the complimentary breads. I don't normally write about this, but there were four different types - two were pretty standard: whole wheat thinly sliced (you can see holes) and baked bread (like a crostini) and palm-sized baguettes. The other two were the squarish rye & beer bread (if I understood right - and for some reason, there was a little kick in there), and miso & scallion round soft bread. I've never had such complimentary breads that were diverse in flavor as well as texture in such a long time.
For the first course, I had a crab monte cristo. It was tasty, and with the plum sauce, it tasted interesting. I liked their effort to combine interesting elements to remake the classic. The monte cristo was more memorable than the plum sauce, but overall, it may not be as memorable thanks to the minuscule portions (big enough only for two bites or four easily comfortable bites).
The second course was orecchiettes neros (or black little ears). It consisted of the pasta that looks like tiny little ears infused with squid's black ink. It was mixed with Italian sausage and Turks & Caicos conch. Again, interesting combinations, and this was quite flavorful. The portion was small, but it was filling - I even got full by this point thanks to what I've eaten before.
I tried also a bit of the salmon dish that was cooked a bit rare (as specified by the menu) and served on top of sticky rice flavored with rice vinegar. It was topped with avocado and sliced onions (and almost looked like a salmon ceviche). It was a lighter tasting dish than the orrechiettes but still flavorful and very refreshing. The salmon was just perfect.
For dessert, I had a egg custard (a well-made flan) topped with 2 string sopapillas, mango sherbet, two small slices of grapefuit and one small slice of orange (the orange tasted weak). It was delicious and I enjoyed my meal.
When the bill came, it came also with gratuitous treats - two small cookies (not sure what type, sorry), sweet guava paste-candy, and a sweet super-tiny cherry muffin.
The total cost for the 3-course prix fixe lunch was $35 dollars (I think the other reviewer that paid $20 for lunch back then went during the famous Miami Spice restaurant week where there are discounts, but with inflation I'm sure we won't see that $20 prix fixe in a long time).
Coupled with the scenery, perfect service, delicious and interesting food cooked at the right consistency (supposedly a fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese - but I think it depends on which dish you order - some dishes in the menu looked too plain such as "Fish & Chips" and I immediately steered clear of that), and couple that with the power outage Miami was experiencing that day, and the way the restaurant pulled everything off, I have no choice but to give it 5 stars for my initial impression.
The price is also very reasonable for the type of food you're getting and with the view that comes with it - and without the infamous South Beach service and price mark-ups.
Beware of the parking though - if you are driving to Brickell Key (I noticed a lot of people walking the bridge), park at the hotel and pay the validated valet ticket $8 (which is half price) instead of the public parking garage that charges you $3 for every 20 minutes up until you owe $24 dollars (ridiculous)!Listed in: MIA: Romance
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Review from Gustavo A. L.
Miami, FL
5/29/2009
This has been one of my best dining experiences in Miami. This place is flawless, everyone is perfectly sync to ensure you have a wow experience. You will drop a pretty penny here as it is quite expensive, but the whole experience makes it worthwhile.
Try to get a table by the window so you can add to your ambiance and enjoy a fantastic view of Miami's blue ocean.
The food is ...for lack of a better word ... Perfect !
This place is designed and geared towards ensuring your experience will be unique -
Put together a couple of bucks and bring your fine lady here, you will score some very valuable points.
Azul is certainly one of the best places in Miami to enjoy a complete dining experience.
Arrive before sun down and stay until evening- it will make your night ! -
Review from Kristen P.
Alexandria, VA
10/3/2009
OK, I am SO excited to write a review for the amazing dining experience my husband and I had at Azul for our one-year anniversary.
I don't even know how or where to begin!
From the moment we pulled our car up to the valet, the entire night flowed with ease. I loved and appreciated that. Any questions we may have had during our experience at Azul, were answered before we even had to open our mouths.
Also, the decor is gorgeous, not over-the-top South Beach-like, but elegant, modern and yet comfortable. I never felt a stuffy or stuck-up vibe from the decor or the staff.
We walked in and were immediately received and seated (we had reservations) by a window with OK water views (even though, we are a little spoiled because of our own view at home). We got comfortable and met our waiter who greeted us as "Mr. and Mrs. Pavon." So classy.
My husband opened the EXTENSIVE wine menu and as if by magic, the sommelier approached our table and made a few great suggestions. We had Pfeffingen, a German white wine -- incredible.
Once we ordered our food, the real production began. We felt so pampered because different people would come by and serve us - it was not just our waiter. They really make you feel taken care of -- it was just great.
At one point in the night, my husband went to grab the wine bottle to check out the name again and our waiter stopped taking a neighbor-table's order to grab it for him thinking he needed his glass refilled. The service is impeccable.
As an appetizer, we shared the Rainbow of Oysters -- lightly fried oysters, wrapped in salmon, tuna, beef, and hamachi. I cannot explain how delicious these were. I am not even a fan of oysters but I loved it!
Our entrees: Swordfish (I can't remember the actual name) and Seafood Ciopinno were perfect. They were beautiful and ridiculously delicious. The presentation of each dish is as important as the taste at Azul.
Before we received our dessert, we were given a complimentary mini-dessert platter that said "Happy Anniversary" and a card signed by Chef Clay Conley wishing us a Happy Anniversary. Talk about perfect attention to detail.
Dessert and cappuccinos topped off our experience perfectly. SO delicious. We had the Chocolate trio - notably, the ginger-infused chocolate ice cream that topped one of the chocolate masterpieces -- was incredible! It had such a bold ginger flavor that it was hard to believe that it was actually ice cream.
To put this experience in perspective for you: My husband is the most discriminating and hard-to-please person when it comes to service and food. (Seriously!) BUT when he took a bite out of every dish we had, including dessert -- his eyes rolled back and he would sit back in his chair in disbelief! LOL
Finally, we got the bill: $280. My husband took my laptop out of my hands to co-author this portion of the review, this is what he had to say: "I have gotten a part-time job as a stripper/cook/handy-man to pay for dinner."
But like many of the other reviewers, the experience was worth every penny.
For a special occasion, Azul surpasses expectations.Listed in: Save Room for Dessert!
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Review from Talisha M.
Miami, FL
7/7/2009
Nice fancy place w/fancy good food.
I just think its a little over rated and too expensive. The service was great. But here is my problem: why should we have to pay a pretty penny for good food and great service...why is this not just a standard in Miami??? I guess for those who don't normally experience fine dining then yeah they will be blown away by this place. But honestly it just didn't stand out in my mind...I wouldn't go there for a special occasion or anything and probably not again...not that anything was bad but I just think it was good...nothing more nothing less.
Without drinks we spent for two $130...so its not cheap but not horribly expensive.
