A Gentler Gourmet

The crappy economy is affecting every industry imaginable, most of all the ones that entertain and nourish us. The restaurant industry, from celebrity chefs to busboys, dishwashers, and even food producers and farmers are more than feeling the pinch. Fine establishments in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, downtown, and Miami Beach are finding themselves with empty tables and plates left cold from a lack of customers. But not January 12 through February 12. That’s when the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (with sponsorship from American Express) is presenting the first Winter Miami Spice. Yes, yes, y’all — the same specially discounted fiesta of food everyone eagerly anticipates in the summertime is making an early appearance. Let the feasting begin!

More than 30 of Miami's finest restaurants will offer $23 lunch and $36 dinner prix fixe menus, so you can decide where you want to eat by district. Feel like heading to SoBe? Hit up The Restaurant at The Setai (2001 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 305-520-6400) or the ever-chic Table 8 (1458 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach; 305-695-4114). On the mainland, there’s Andu (141 SW Seventh St., Miami; 786-871-7005), Christy’s Steakhouse (3101 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables; 305-446-1400), and more than we have room or time to mention.
Jan. 12-Feb. 12, 2009