August 28, 2015

Biscayne Tavern Miami Spice

Tucked near the lobby of the YVE Hotel in downtown Miami sits Biscayne Tavern, a somewhat casual tavern-style restaurant hoping to provide visitors and locals alike with a unique dining experience. Dining options in downtown are still somewhat limited compared to other parts of the city, and Biscayne Tavern offers a nice escape from the overly priced tourist traps that so many people in the area fall for. This is more so the case during Miami Spice, where Biscayne Tavern offers some of the most substantial options that I have ever seen on a Spice menu.

The dining room is decked out in copious TVs and chalkboard walls used as ways to display the current craft beers available. Although the beer selection was somewhat limited compared to other bars in the city, I would say that Biscayne Tavern offers some of the better beer selections in downtown. From Funky Buddha to Dogfish, there is an option for everyone. After trying a few of the Miami Spice options, I would recommend the Seared Scallops as an appetizer. Served with sweet pea puree, chorizo and corn bread crumbles, this dish was the most visually stunning plate served to me all day. Because of the somewhat petite size of the scallop, it ended up a bit overcooked, but otherwise, I would whole-heartedly recommend this dish. It was a marriage of flavors that complimented each other in a tasty way. This was a take on surf n’ turf that I wish more restaurants would explore.

The Pork Chop is the way to go when it comes to your choice of entrée. Unlike the scallop in the appetizer, the pork chop is perfectly cooked and does not lack in size. This behemoth of a chop was medium throughout, plump, and succulent. The bourbon sauce added sweetness and depth that paired nicely with the tender pork. Being a meat and potatoes kind of guy, the creamy garlic red potato mash was an ideal companion to the pork chop. This is the sort of elevation to classic dishes that Biscayne Tavern needs to be recognized for.

Dessert options are left to the chef depending on the night, and I was pleasantly surprised when I got Key Lime pie. Continuing the comfort food type of menu that I had stuck to all night, this Key Lime Pie was a great way to end the night. The tartness from the lime counteracted the richness of the other food provided for me, beforehand, making for a proper ending to my meal.