Iconic South Beach Steakhouse Closes After 17 Years

Named the Best Steakhouse in Miami by New Times in 2024, it's the end of an era for an iconic South Beach establishment that was once synonymous with the neighborhood. Red South Beach, also known as Red the Steakhouse, has closed its doors after 17 years in business along South Pointe Drive in the opulent South of Fifth neighborhood.

The steakhouse took to Instagram on Saturday, May 17, with a heartfelt statement written by chef Peter Vauthy and the Red team to announce the closure to its followers and longtime customers. The statement begins, "The end of a wonderful and beautiful era. After 17 unforgettable years serving the Miami and South of Fifth community, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Red South Beach is closing its doors. From the moment we opened, you welcomed us-not just as your favorite neighborhood steakhouse, but as part of your lives. Together, we've toasted engagements, celebrated weddings, and gathered for birthdays, anniversaries, and every milestone in between. You have become our family, and the memories we've created together will forever be part of who we are."

The restaurant opened in 2008 at its original location at 119 Washington Ave. and was met with instant praise. However, the U.S. was also going through a recession, and the restaurant industry was struggling. At the time of opening, it was the second Red Steakhouse concept to open in the U.S. after becoming a success in Cleveland, Ohio, in 2004.

The Restaurant Had Faced Countless Obstacles Since 2020

The restaurant explained that it had faced multiple challenges since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — including a major move to a new location. However, after months of trying to remain open in 2025, they were ultimately forced to close. "When we moved during the pandemic, you stood by us," says the team. "Your loyalty and continued support gave us strength during one of the most challenging times in our industry. For that, we are endlessly grateful. Over the past few years, we've faced many obstacles."

Unfortunately, a disagreement with a landlord was the final straw. The statement continues, "Most recently, after months of trying, we were unable to reach an agreement with our landlord that would allow us to continue operating in our current location. It's not the ending we imagined, but as the Grateful Dead so perfectly put it, 'What a long, strange trip it's been.'"

While chef Vauthy and his team don't know what the future holds for Red or for their team, they insist, "This is not goodbye forever. We are simply closing this chapter, holding on to the incredible memories, and looking forward to what's next-wherever that may be. From all of us at Red, thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives. We look forward to the day our paths cross again."

Remembering a Legendary South Beach Restaurant

When Red, the Steakhouse, opened in 2008 on Washington Avenue, Prime 112 and Smith & Wollensky were already heavy hitters on the scene.

Thanks to its consistency and chef and owner Vauthy's expertise, customers instantly became longtime patrons. Loyal customers truly helped the steakhouse persevere throughout the late 2010s, even up until the COVID-10 pandemic.

Red was known for its delicious filet mignon, which even former New Times food critic Lee Klein praised back in 2010. "We love a great steak. Something on the order of Red's nine-ounce aged 'USDA Prime Certified Angus Beef' filet mignon, brushed with oil, seasoned with kosher salt and tellicherry pepper. The juicy, well-marbled specimen is 'pooled' in demi-glace and topped with truffle butter. Honestly, though, a steak like this doesn't need anything but the aforementioned seasonings to shine."