Guru (232 12th St., 305/534-3996, 5 p.m.–midnight daily, brunch noon–3 p.m. Sun., main courses from $10) is a unique proposition among Indian restaurants in that the food isn’t limited to typical South Asian flavors but also includes Latin and even French and Cajun touches. The dining room is elegant and modern but far from trendy, and service is friendly if not overly efficient.

For a more authentic, and upscale, Indian dining experience, the stylish Ishq (530 Ocean Dr., 305/532-4747, 6–10:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 1–11 p.m. Sat.–Sun., main courses from $15) is a much better option. Located right along Ocean Drive with a handful of outdoor tables providing excellent views, Ishq is almost as famous for their inventive cocktail list as it is for the menu, which combines north Indian standards and the spicy seafood-based fare of south India. Everything is prepared with care and flair, and even though the menu items are a bit pricey, the location and atmosphere are worth the cost.