It's that time of year again when we count down to New Times' Best
of Miami 2012 issue in June. Until then, Short Order will serve up 100
of our favorite dishes in the 305. If you have any nominations of your
own, please send them to [email protected].
92. Moqueca Brazileira at Pearl Restaurant & Lounge
Pearl Restaurant & Lounge re-opened this year with a focus on champagne, yet when
we sat down at the table, it was this dish that truly percolated to the
top. The "Moqueca Brazileira" ($34) is listed under the "Latin" section on Pearl's extensive menu, which reads like an international novella. The environment may feel a little Clockwork Orange, but ask for a table outside, with a view of the Nikki Beach craziness below.
Moqueca is a traditional seafood stew, similar to a bouillabaisse, but Pearl's version manages to marry the flavors of a Thai coconut soup with what tastes like a rich lobster bisque base. There are chunks of lobster meat, plump mussels and Amazonian paiche (a Peruvian cod known as the "king of the Amazon") floating in a coconut pepper sauce. It has a good amount of spice, and it's topped with gobs of garlicky aioli and fried plantains for crunch.
100 Favorites Dishes
93. Corvina at Edge Steak and Bar
94. Spiked Frrrozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity 3
95. Egg Custard Tart with Black Truffles at Philip Ho
96. Soft Pretzels at Mister Collins
97. Serrano Ham Croquettes at Crazy About You
98. The Elena Ruth Sandwich at Sergio's
99. Chow Fun at Chow Down Grill
100. Grilled Artichoke at Peacock Garden Cafe
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