Smith & Wollensky

Smith & Wollensky is a gargantuan steakhouse in South Pointe Park overlooking Government Cut with one of the best waterfront views in Miami. That’s the main draw to eating here—sitting at sea level, feeling the misty seabreeze on your face, and listening to the waves break as you watch a purple and gold sunset. But chances are you won’t be able to experience that. Those tables require jumping through so many hoops, you’ll feel like a chihuahua at a dog show. They don’t take reservations for patio tables, there’s a separate waitlist for the most prized waterfront seats, and you risk losing your indoor reservation if you wait too long. Sadly, no one’s taught us the secret handshake that grants immediate waterfront access, so we have no good advice for you either.  

Whether you snag a patio table or sit inside, the food is at least the same, and the portions are as massive as the restaurant. Order like you’re buying a car. Stick to the basics, stay away from enhancements, and beware of hidden fees. The Wollensky salad, for example, has large chunks of bacon and big potato croutons, so don’t feel like you have to add anything on and avoid paying $28-$34 for what should be a $16 salad. It’s also large enough to share—just be clear with your server that you don’t want it “split” so you don’t get hit with a $2 fee. 

But you came here for the view and steaks, and only one of those is a sure thing. The $90 dry aged t-bone steak is the best choice since it provides both a marbly New York strip and lean filet in one. Order it sliced so it’s easy to share. If you do end up sitting inside, you can enjoy your steak while watching folks practice fancy baseball handshakes with the patio maître d' while outdoor tables sit empty despite the waitlist. Maybe pretend the carts full of food squeaking by are seagulls.