Sandy shores have always been South Beach's biggest daytime draw, but a newly robust brunch scene may just be your next favorite thing about the beach. Over the past few months a number of great restaurants have opened with brunch menus that truly steal the spotlight, whether you're in need of a breakfast enchilada or thirsty to keep the champagne flowing.
The Lazy and Luxe Sunday: Restaurant Michael Schwartz
Located inside South Beach's historic Raleigh Hotel, Restaurant Michael Schwartz highlights the very things that this James Beard award-winning chef is known for. The brunch menu is extensive, delicious, and classic—Brioche French toast, a three egg omelet with mushrooms, peppers, and Gruyere, and lemon ricotta pancakes with blueberry compote—you simply can’t go wrong. So sit back and soak up the restaurant’s bottomless Bloody Mary special with a perfect view of The Raleigh's world famous Art Deco pool. 1775 Collins Ave., 305-612-1163
The Boozy Brunch: 27 Restaurant and Bar
Located inside an old 1930s house on the Freehand Miami's property, 27 Restaurant is incredibly charming, but its cozy demeanor is only part of the allure. With a menu drafted by the Broken Shaker team, 27 is definitely a place to get boozy for brunch. Think Green Bloody Marys made with roasted Serrano chiles and tequila, or a Miso Honey Cold Brew made with Panther Coffee and local coconuts. 27's culinary menu celebrates South Beach's many cultures; take Elad's Shakshuka, for example: an Israeli egg dish with a side of Zak the Baker bread. Or consider the Bandeja Paisa, a Hispanic dish of chicharones, black beans, white rice, maduros, and shredded beef. Whatever you order, and however long you stay, you'll feel right at home at this new South Beach classic. 2727 Indian Creek Drive., 305-531-2727
The Brunch Party: Bagatelle
Sunrise doesn't mean the party is over in South Beach; it just means it's time to head to Bagatelle. Your friends in New York and São Paulo know what we're talking about—a whole afternoon of debauchery with champagne spraying across the room, people dancing on tables, and an emoji-inspired mascot named Ricardo to make sure everyone is reaching their maximum party potential. You'll be having so much fun slurping down rosé sangrias, you might just forget to step down from your table to order some food. 2000 Collins Ave., 305-704-3900
The Taco Joint: Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
A good brunch doesn't have to be a daylong affair to be memorable. Bodega is South Beach's latest taco addition, and although it's best known for its not-so-secret speakeasy in the back and mouthwatering late-night bites, it might soon be the place we all turn to for a brunch that's quick, inexpensive, and satisfying. Give the Huevos Ranchero Taco a go or fill your plate with Bodega's Breakfast Egg Torta if you're looking for something more filling. Anything works when you have bottomless pitchers of Micheladas and Bloody Marias. 1220 16th St., 305-704-2145
The Locally Sourced Indulgence: Icebox Cafe
Icebox was doing the brunch thing way before the rest of Miami caught up, so it's safe to say they've perfected the art of lounging about. Come here if you're looking for simple, seasonal, and locally sourced cuisine that teeters on the line of healthy and delicious. The lemon ricotta pancake is a sure standout, and we're certain you'll devour all of the whip cream that comes with it. 1855 Purdy Ave., 305-538-8448
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FACEBOOK.COM/THERALEIGHHOTEL (RESTAURANT MICHAEL SCHWARTZ); JUSTIN NAMON (27 RESTAURANT)