In the heart of the Miami Design District, Michael's Genuine Miami distills the city’s creative energy into a polished, ingredient-first experience that feels both timeless and of-the-moment. Chef Michael Schwartz’s flagship marries unfussy technique with Miami fine dining swagger: a wood-fired oven, an open kitchen, and a menu that reads simple but lands unforgettable. For those scouting the best restaurants Miami has to offer, this is the neighborhood original that still sets the pace.

The Story & Heritage
Opened in 2007, Michael’s Genuine was the catalyst that turned the Design District into a dining destination. James Beard Award–winning Chef Michael Schwartz built his reputation on honest cooking: seasonal sourcing, minimal intervention, maximum flavor. Under the Genuine Hospitality Group, the restaurant has evolved without straying from its soul—welcoming, stylish, and ingredient-obsessed. A Michelin-recommended mainstay with national acclaim, it remains a favorite for industry insiders, art-world collectors, and design lovers, thanks to Schwartz’s enduring philosophy: respect the product, cook with restraint, and let Miami’s bounty shine.

The Cuisine & Menu
The cuisine champions wood-oven fire, pristine seafood, and house-made pastas—elevated, not ornate. Expect a market-driven à la carte menu, with staples that anchor each season. Signatures might include Crispy Pork Belly with kimchi and crushed peanuts; Wood Oven-Roasted Fish with salsa verde; Pan-Roasted Chicken with preserved lemon jus; and Crudo—think Local Wahoo with citrus and chile. Pizzas emerge blistered and fragrant; pastas are hand-crafted and deeply flavored. Sourcing leans local and sustainable, spotlighting South Florida farms and day-boat fisheries. Vegetarian and gluten-free accommodations are handled thoughtfully. Price positioning is confident fine dining without the pretense, designed for repeat visits as much as celebrations.

Experience & Atmosphere
A lush courtyard framed by greenery invites lingering lunches and golden-hour dinners; inside, concrete floors, warm woods, and an inviting bar set a chic, convivial tone. The playlist skews jazz and upbeat—energetic but conversation-friendly. Service is polished and personable, guided by a team that knows the menu’s rhythms and the producers behind it. The wine program favors terroir-driven bottlings, with an agile by-the-glass list and smart pairings from a knowledgeable sommelier. Private dining is available for intimate gatherings; reservations are recommended, especially for prime evening slots. Expect a smart-casual dress code that mirrors the Design District’s effortless style. The bar excels at classic-leaning cocktails with seasonal twists.

Closing & Call-to-Action
Dine at Michael’s Genuine for a definitive taste of Miami—ingredient-led, wood-fired, and endlessly current. Book Michael’s Genuine reservations 2–3 weeks ahead for weekend evenings; weekday lunches are ideal for Design District explorations. For a special experience, request courtyard seating at sunset or settle at the bar for a front-row view of the kitchen’s craft. This is genuine hospitality, refined for the modern gourmand.