#DishHitList Drink Specials, Miami Spice and More [September 2020]

Restaurants are finally reopening again throughout Miami, which means the return of happy hours and other big specials. If you’ve been itching to get out and see what’s new in the local food scene, you’ve come to the right place. 

We’ve rounded up some promotions and other news to help you make the most of this new normal in dining out. Cheers! 

Miami Spice Is Still Happening

Local foodies look forward to August and September every year. Why? Two words: Miami Spice. From August 1 to September 30, guests can typically expect to enjoy generous prix-fixe meals at some of the city’s top spots at a steep discount. Unfortunately, this year’s promotion hasn’t been getting as much attention for obvious reasons. 

So here’s your reminder that Miami Spice is still underway with $25 lunch and $39 dinner menus galore. One of the great spots offering Miami Spice this month is Osteria del Teatro, the Miami Beach Italian institution. The famous establishment has been turning heads with its stellar cuisine since 1987, and Miami Spice gives guests a prime opportunity to check it out. Expect scrumptious pastas and proteins capped with the restaurant’s beloved homemade tiramisu.

With just a few weeks left, take advantage while you can. Details for the Miami Spice program change regularly, so make sure to visit the official website for the latest information.

Pop-Ups Continue to Gain Traction

Although restaurant dining rooms are allowed to reopen, not all of them are. That’s why local chefs have been popping up in other places besides their usual kitchens, and the trend shows no signs of stopping.

Among the latest popups to join the scene is The Pide Place, which opens on weekends at the Brickell pizzeria Stanzione 87. Chef Aaron Brooks of Edge Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons Miami is keeping busy with this weekend popup of Turkish flatbreads (similar to pizzas) and other Middle Eastern delights. Pide toppings include Turkish beef pepperoni, lamb, and spice-roasted veggies. The savory options are balanced by sweet treats like Turkish delight ice cream and homemade baklava.

Just a few blocks north, Downtown Mexican eatery Pez welcomed Tijuana taco popup El Primo. The street food popup specializes in what’s known as “red tacos” – tacos dipped in a stew-like broth (birria) to impart even more flavor. The beef tacos are available on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. In addition to tacos, El Primo offers tostadas, quesadillas, and even a ramen dish (aptly named Birriamen).

“Un-Wine” With Huge Drink Specials

It’s no secret that this quarantine has been rough and turned many of us into amateur home bartenders. But instead of stocking up your home bar yet again, venture out to Coconut Grove’s Glass & Vine on Mondays and Tuesday for huge discounts on the restaurant’s wine program. Guests can enjoy any bottle of wine on their list for 50% off – not too shabby, especially when the wine list is already pretty reasonable. The eatery also offers a generous happy hour on Mondays to Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. with half-off well spirits and wines by the glass and $5 beers.

Speaking of happy hour, some places have decided to double down on the end-of-the-workday ritual. Over at the Politan Row food hall in the Design District, patrons can enjoy all-day happy hour specials. From open to close, classic cocktails like mojitos, Moscow Mules, and old fashioneds can be had for $10 along with $5 glasses of wine and beers. 

Not too far south, Downtown Miami bar Over Under recently launched their happy hour with an assortment of $5 drink AND food specials: frozen drinks, well drinks, nuts, olives, the ever-dangerous shot and a beer, and much more. Their happy hour is every day from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.