Silverlake Bistro — Restaurant in Miami Beach

Going back to Cali? Hmm, I don’t think so.

The talented team behind cult-favorite La Fresa Francesa, chef Benoit Rablat and Sandy Sanchez, gifts South Florida another gem: Silverlake Bistro. Knowing their history, I knew I’d probably be in for a treat. Several visits later I confirmed this restaurant also demands our full attention.

Located in Normandy Isles, a northern area on Miami Beach that continues to revitalize and reinvent itself, the Cali-bohemian vibe was hard to miss from my very first step inside the space. Throughout its understated and intimate decor, I noticed the unmistakable touch of passionate owner Sandy everywhere I looked: custom designed “foxy” wallpaper, personal knick-knacks displayed on golden shelving units, vinyl record covers hung in the most unexpected place, books, and framed photographs. And then those gorgeous signature plates…

Inspired by their time together on the west coast, the one thing to know at Silverlake is simple: if chef Benoit created it, you want it. End of story.

Highlights: I cannot imagine not ordering the Gnocchi Mac & Cheese (maybe even a double order), the Mini St. Helena Grilled Cheese (for days), and the Roasted Chicken (oh my!) with every visit. Do not even get me started on the Butterscotch Pot de Crème! I will never share mine. Not happening.

The vegetarian sides and entree options, however, demand equal attention. Revealed further with each bite, the Baby Carrots (with honey, pistachios, espelette, fennel pollen, and basil whipped ricotta), Pan Fried Okra (chili flakes, parmesan, lemon zest), and the Roasted Cauliflower main (Le Puy lentils, labneh, and a fried egg) dig deep on flavor.

Expect simply presented American classics and quality ingredients always to take center stage. Since its quiet fall opening, the menu has grown and evolved steadily. Up ahead in the distance? Brunch! To drink, a reasonably priced, sommelier-curated (pink champagne on ice?) wine and craft beer list is available. Corkage fee is set at $25 for those wishing to bring in their own wine.

As with every new business, navigating and establishing an entirely new restaurant concept has required tenacity and vision. Thankfully, the talented pair seem to gracefully navigate any growing pains thrown their way, using good vibrations, and an unusual free-spirited discipline only they can manage.

Selfishly speaking, I fear this newcomer’s underground feel might fade quickly as word spreads like wildfire. But then again, I can’t help but brag about Silverlake Bistro as if it was my own. I can’t make up my mind, but here I am, and now you know. Any time of year, you can find it here. Gather for a feast...

I'm in love with this restaurant and can't wait to come back here again. We were there just a few days ago for dinner. The food was fantastic and the decor is so heartwarming and cozy/comfortable! Even the dinnerware was special with 2 adorable coyotes handpainted on it to add even more charm to your dining experience. Everything has been carefully thought out to make this restaurant stand out from all the others. Pride of ownership definitely shows throughout.

The service was outstanding by Leo, who warmly greeted us at the entrance and let us choose where we would like to sit and got us started with our water glasses, complimentary bread plate, and food recommendations. He was a gem and a hardworker catering to other guests also, but never forgot us.

We also were impressed by the cordial and prompt service performed by Ximena. She was happy to answer all questions and also had great menu recommendations. Her smile was delightful!

We both ordered the same things. For the appetizer, we shared the Baked Vacherin, which was just amazing! It was a crusty loaf of bread with hot baked cheese for the spread. So good! It came straight from the oven with steam rolling off the top of the cheese dish with honey that you dribble over it. I have never had that dish before but I want it again! For the main entree, we chose Pork Chop a la Creme. This was the Chef's kiss! I have never had such delicious pork chops in my life. Accompanied with their special creamy sauce and Polenta and greens. We were both nodding our heads at how delicious our dinner was. The portions were generous and we saved half to take home in order to save room for dessert. For dessert, we had the Traditional Salted Butter Crepe that we shared. It was wonderful with powdered sugar and creamy vanilla ice cream that melted over the crepe. We thought we died and went to heaven. Wow, what a great meal! Perfection.

There was nice dining music playing and the guests were all happy and chatting. There is also great outdoor seating in the front of the restaurant but it was too hot outside to do it that day. We enjoyed our experience and will be back soon. We were lucky to park in the front on the street. I highly recommend this...

Sandy and Ben should double as interior designers. Like with Fresa Francesa, they have taken an older building and refashioned it into a funky cool restaurant, this one with a California yacht-rocky vibe. They also have a couple of outside tables, definitely a plus for when the weather gets cooler:)

So this restaurant started popping up in my IG feed, and I found out that the owners were the same as my favorite brunch spot; I finally had the chance to go for dinner last night. As I told Sandy, it's a solid 4.5 (with the 1/2 star going because they ran out of what looks like a very enticing burger). You better believe I will be back for this. But fret not for my taste buds, as everything I tried yesterday was delicious.

I started with their very juicy and aromatic veal meatballs. The pecorino cheese mixing with their tomato sauce makes for a tasty scent as it comes to my table, and the meatballs are very tender and flavorful as well. It was served with a crispy baguette I passed on due to that diet name begins with a "k".

My main was their rotisserie style half chicken. Served with potatoes and a sorrel yogurt cream, not only was it perfect for my nutrition plan but equally scented and tasty. The skin has just the right amount of crisp and there's plenty of meat on the bones. Skinny duck fat fries made for a (small) cheat whether dipped in a creamy porcini sauce or "muricah" style with regular ketchup.

Since I had spent over 40 minutes at 12% incline at the gym plus time on weights, I allowed myself to indulge their butterscotch pot de creme. Take your classic butterscotch custard from childhood, add a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh cream and I enjoyed another dessert worth the calories. Sandy and her waitress also mentioned a few more desserts that I'll walk over for.

The inside tables face 71 Street for a city view, and there's plenty (for now) street life. It is casually low key romantic, and about 5 minutes from full moon beach (North Shore Open Space...