The iconic Nikki Beach Miami location is at One Ocean Drive in the heart of South Beach, where models, artists, and celebrities come to dine and play such as Leonardo di Caprio, Paris Hilton, and Madonna. Owners Jack and Julia Penrod created the first Nikki Beach club, a luxury beach club/restaurant lifestyle concept 25 years ago on the stunning oceanfront strip of sand. It was an instant hit and a global expansion soon followed. Today, there are 11 Nikki Beach clubs and five resorts in chic destinations such as the South of France, Italy, Monaco, Spain, Greece, Dubai, Turkey, Thailand, Dubai, and Montenegro.
We dined at the original award-winning South Beach hotspot on a weekday afternoon. The energy was buzzing with excitement as guests waited to check in. One could see why Nikki Beach remains iconic. The thoughtfully designed tree-lined garden entrance, wooden farm dining tables with white director’s chairs on sand covered floors– all harmonize to give the open-air restaurant beneath swaying palm trees an ultra-glamorous yet relaxing beach vibe. The inviting space encourages guests to eat, drink and enjoy the club’s exclusive 60,000 square feet of prime beach and gathering space. We met Michael Sin, the handsome general manager who has been with the company over two decades. He graciously took us on a brief tour of the magnificent property. Beyond the vintage tables are beautifully beige cabanas with wooden details and sun beds accented with azure blue towels resting on top. Venture further towards sounds of the waves and there’s the glistening Atlantic Ocean to swim.
The sublime oceanfront relaxation is matched only by its top-notch dining. The menu is globally inspired with Asian, French and Latin flavors representing the countries where Nikki Beach is located. As the afternoon heats up, we enjoy a bottle of the house rosé to cool. Must try is the famous Sexy Salad, a delicious fusion of lobster, crab meat, shrimp, avocado, mango, and greens with tobiko and a spicy lime sauce. Choose any of the creative sushi platters with slices fish that are extraordinarily fresh and tender. There’s also the flavorful grilled branzino, house-made penne burrata, salmon poke bowl, and other seasonal dishes. Their seafood is from local South Florida vendors and they fly in most produce from their own farm in North Carolina to maintain fresh ingredients. Don’t forget the house-made desserts and refreshing cocktails. Not only is Nikki Beach known for its exquisite dining and friendly service, the stunning venue also features live music events, large parties and a popular Sunday Brunch with free flowing mojitos, a resident DJ and costumed performers entertaining the crowd.
Nikki Beach Miami
