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Area 31
The restaurant takes its name and gathers much of its menu from
Fishing Area 31, an ecologically sustainable swath of western central Atlantic Ocean encompassing the coastal waters of Florida,
Central America, and northern South America. And as with any good fishing spot, Area 31 is far removed from the hustle and
bustle of civilization — tucked away on the 16th floor of downtown Miami’s new Epic Hotel and resplendent in a
natural palette of wood, glass, stone, textiles, and patinaed metals. An outdoor terrace situated amid a scintillating urban
vista of skyscrapers and waterways is likewise enchanting, but chef John Critchley’s pristine seafood preparations are
the real reason to head here fast. Whether choosing from a half-dozen daily wood-grilled catches or more complicated dishes
such as salt-crusted dorade, you’ll find the results stunningly fresh and delicious. Other worthy hauls include a salad
of octopus tossed with fried cubes of pork belly and fresh hearts of palm; thin strands of chittara pasta tangled in spicy
crab ragout redolent of fried garlic; and a mighty tasty grilled leg of lamb. Most entrées are in the upper $20 range,
with only dorade, lobster, and veal milanese topping $30. The wine list, cocktails, and service are also impressive. The next
time you seek a great seafood dinner, there’s no need to go fishing about for options — just cast your line with
Area 31.
270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, 16th Floor Miami,
FL 33132 305-424-5234
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