April 27, 2015

STK Miami

Following traditional steakhouse requirements, STK manages to offer indulgent menus, alluring décor, and ambiance that attract some of the most beautiful people in the city. In a sense, STK’s concept embodies Miami as a whole. As a city, we like to pamper ourselves to the finer (and somewhat more expensive) things in life in order to appease our desire for luxury, excess, and entertainment. Unlike other Steakhouses on the beach, STK manages to provide all these things without coming off as pretentious. Although STK is one of those restaurants that you’ll visit only on special occasions, it is a destination that is not to be missed.

STK prides itself on creating an experience instead of just a meal for its clientele. Though this is true, STK is first and foremost a steakhouse, so the dining part of the equation has to be on par with the thought put into décor, music, and architecture. Thankfully, the kitchen at STK knows exactly what it is doing.

The bread experience is gently elevated by replacing the basket for a skillet filled with bread topped with blue cheese butter. Although I sampled a few of the appetizers, the clear winner was the Seared Scallops served with short rib marmalade, squash puree, and pomegranate. This slight nod to surf n’ turf mostly featured the seafood portion of classic steakhouse combination, but this allowed the buttery nature of the scallop to shine through the bold flavors coming from the short rib marmalade. The pomegranate seeds added a crunchy texture and fruity element to the dish that brightened it to make for my favorite bite of the night.

The main star at a steakhouse needs to be the steak (obviously), and STK did not disappoint. The 20 oz bone-in rib steak was liberally seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium-rare, making for a tender and succulent piece of meat that caters to the our carnivorous needs. I’ve read somewhere that the success of steakhouses can be measured by the quality of its sides as much as their meat, and if this is the case, STK sure knows how to cook. Although all the sides of were impeccably presented, the jalapeno cheddar grits were a revelation. Impossibly creamy grits were used as a vehicle for cheddar and jalapeno, and you really cannot go wrong when you combine the three into a side.

Throw all restraint out the window and make sure you order the Churro Milkshake for dessert. Composed of milkshake made from dulce de leche ice cream and cinnamon liquor served with of churros, the dessert is whimsical and outrageously decadent. Served in milk bottles with red and white straws, the milkshakes are playful and reminiscent of one’s childhood. The churros are the perfect compliment to the sweet drink, ending the night with a pleasant sugar rush. To me, this dish shows just how light-hearted STK truly is. It doesn’t take itself too seriously and instead just wants those who attend to enjoy their experience. Although it can also be considered a place to see or be seen, one could easily spend a nonchalant and enjoyable evening here.