Brickell Riviera
Claudie (Brickell)
RESTAURANTS • First Word
The Skinny: A new French Mediterranean restaurant opened last month from the Riviera Dining Group (MILA, CASA NEOS), Claudie is an opulent dinner scene and a see-and-be-seen hotspot, building energy as the night unfolds.
The Vibe: A portico-framed entrance opens into a massive outdoor space dotted with lemon trees under string lighting, all centered on a stunning fountain. Inside, the dining room is anchored by a wraparound bar with Noguchi-like lamps floating above the banquette-lined space adorned with an eclectic array of abstract art and terracotta pottery cast in a soft pink glow. The women’s bathroom delivers serious art deco drama with its selfie-worthy statement mirror.
The Food: Servers set the tone by snipping fresh herbs tableside directly into the olive oil for bread service — a nice touch. A salade Niçoise arrived beautifully composed with jammy quail eggs and chunks of tuna confit. Burgundy escargots swim in classic garlic-parsley butter, while truffle toupie macaroni delicately balanced earthy truffle with ham and Comté cheese. And a grilled branzino with sauce vierge arrived perfectly à point, bathed in a bright tomato-olive oil. For dessert, the lavender crème brûlée yielded lightly floral notes as promised, beneath its crackling top.
The Drink: The cocktail menu draws inspiration from 20th century artists and writers, as in Hemingway’s Hilltop made with Remy 1738, Calvados, Benedictine, and vermouth, while the wine list highlights French vintners.
The Verdict: Claudie delivers French Riviera opulence to Brickell — a sophisticated marriage of culinary precision and South Beach energy on the mainland. –Olee Fowler
→ Claudie (Brickell) • 1101 Brickell Ave • Wed-Thu 6p-1a, Fri-Sun 530p-2a • Reserve.
Photo: Kris Tamburello.