Where to Eat

Since opening in March, Mark's South Beach, 1120 Collins Avenue in Hotel Nash, (305) 604-9050, has been hailed as one of the best on the beach. The menu, designed by Mark Militello and executed by Tim Andriola, changes daily but features creations like anise-hazelnut-dusted softshell crab with peach tomato broth; millionaire organic green salad with Maine lobster, foie gras and truffle vinaigrette; and an aptly named 'sabotage of chocolates' dessert. Dinner for two with wine, about $135; six-course tasting menu with wine pairings, $105 each.

At the hotel's restaurant, Wish, 801 Collins Avenue, (305) 674-9474, the chef Andrea Curto is known for subtle but bold-flavored specialties like crispy-skinned, local yellow eye pepper risotto and trout roe-garnished cilantro beurre blanc. The hottest tables are in the parasol-protected outside fountain court. Dinner for two, with wine, about $120.

For those wanting Cuban cuisine without crossing the causeway to Little Havana, Puerto Sagua, 700 Collins Avenue, (305) 673-1115, serves as tasty takes on classics like shredded ropa vieja and medianoche sandwiches (ham, pork, cheese, and pickles, then pressed and grilled), and café con leche that should be declared a controlled substance. Highlighting the informally festive décor are 3-D paintings by the Skull sisters - campy, cartoony street scenes of old Havana. Dinner for two, with beer, $25 and up.