Other International

The Caribbean-fusion fare at Ortanique (278 Miracle Mile, 305/446-7710, 6–10 p.m. Mon.–Wed., 6–11 p.m. Thurs.–Sat., 5:30–9:30 p.m. Sun., main courses from $31) has made the restaurant one of Coral Gables [1]’s most noteworthy dining destinations. Bringing the flavors of the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Haiti together in light spicy-sweet masterpieces is no mean feat, but chef Cindy Hutson has received nothing but glowing praise for the concoctions that come out of Ortanique’s kitchen. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood form the cornerstones of most meals, and though it is quite pricey, the intimate atmosphere and inventive menu make it top-shelf dining.

Maroosh Mediterranean (223 Valencia Ave., 305/476-9800, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Tues.–Sat., 11:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m. Fri.–Sat., noon–10 p.m. Sun., main courses from $16) serves hummus, kibbe, falafel, lemon chicken, and other Middle Eastern standards in a dimly lit, intimate environment that on weekends is interrupted by the gyrations of a belly dancer.

If you absolutely must have Indian food, Anokha (3321 Virginia St., 305/674-9367, lunch 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Mon.–Fri., dinner 6–11 p.m. Tues.–Sun., main courses from $14) is a decent if unspectacular option in mainland Miami [2]. From the modern decor to the pricey subcontinent-spanning menu, it’s clear that Anokha is attempting to move beyond the family-style Punjab-centric style that many Indian restaurants conform to. While their reach should be commended, their grasp isn’t quite there, and the dishes tend to fall a bit short on the innovation scale. Routinely praised as one of the best Indian restaurants in Miami, Anokha is actually a few notches below several better options in South Beach [3] (Ishq, Guru), although in the spice-deprived area around Coconut Grove [4], it definitely stands out.