Miami Restaurant Review: Hakkasan Serves Up Chic Style in Miami Beach — and Bold Cantonese Flavors

For over 70 years, the Fontainebleau has been at the absolute center of classic Miami Beach style and history… so it only makes sense that the iconic hotel would offer chic, elegant, and taste-tantalizing restaurants to match.

This is, after all, the hotel that was the home away from home of Frank Sinatra, the setting of Goldfinger, and the centerpiece of countless guest stories of engagements and other special occasions. And then of course there’s the trio of million-dollar chandeliers in the lobby.

MIAMI, FLORIDA – Writer Lauren Goldenberg checks out the iconic pools at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.

After a busy day lounging around Miami Beach or staying poolside at the hotel (and you truly must check out the legendary pools), or maybe even checking out the city’s lively art scene during Miami Art Week… you can elevate your dinner game with a reservation at one of the city’s hottest restaurants for Cantonese Chinese food.

The Vibe

Chic and trendy and a little dark and sexily moody, it’s easy to see why the restaurant is among Miami’s buzziest for a glam night out with friends or a sultry date.

MIAMI, FLORIDA – The Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin, Sweet & Sour Prawn with Pomegranate, and Green Beans at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg

With intricate wooden latticework, leather banquettes, and cool aquamarine hues offering up a chill atmosphere, the restaurant is open for dinner only. Originally opening its doors in London, the restaurant has outposts now across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Vegas (where it also has a cool nightclub that regularly attracts VIP headliners), Hakkasan is a part of Tao Group Hospitality.  

In Vegas, the club is a spot to see and be seen. In Miami, it’s the same but with a chiller vibe at its core.

The Dishes

MIAMI, FLORIDA – The Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg

It’s all about the food, and when travelers come to Miami… they’re looking for the very best in this foodie town. Ditto for locals. 

They’ll find it here at Hakkasan.

MIAMI, FLORIDA – Lauren Goldenberg tasting the Smoked Beef Short Ribs at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.

Whatever you order, make sure to check out the Smoked Beef Short Ribs (with jasmine tea)… which are revolutionary on the menu. They come cubed and sliced off the rib so don’t be surprised if you have to double check with the waiter if these are indeed the short ribs (yes, even when you’ve been given the heads up, you’ll do a double take). A pretty splash of goji berries complements each indulgently delicious bite. If you’re sharing dishes to max out on all the flavors you can try, this may even be the plate you want to get separately. It’s that great you won’t want to share.

MIAMI, FLORIDA – The Smoked Beef Short Ribs at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg

Another signature dish, the Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin offers savory, balanced flavors artistically presented in an airy, edible yes-you-can-eat-it-too bowl and is also delicious. The Sweet & Sour Prawn with Pomegranate is a classic Cantonese staple on the menu as well. 

Orders of Green Beans and Hakka Noodles with Mushrooms and Chives rounded out the meal with some veggies and noodles.

Cheers!

Of course, there’s plenty of signature drinks and craft cocktails with fun names like “Debbie, Please Don’t,” along with a healthy selection of wines and beers on the menu.

Other Tasting Adventures?

You’re at the Fontainebleau, known for several pools. Of course, there’s a variety of other restaurants at the hotel to check out as well. 

Happy tasting!

MIAMI, FLORIDA – Green Beans at Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg

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