Azul Restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Nuits-Saint-Georges

Before I venture off to sleepyland, I need to sit down and write about my experience tonight at Azul Restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel located at 500 Brickell Key Drive Miami, FL 33131. Let me start by saying "Pinch me please, I still feel like royalty..." The service and detail at Azul are perfect! From the moment you walk into the restaurant, throughout your dinner and as you walk out, you are treated with the upmost care and attention. After we were taken to our beautiful table overlooking the bay, and the waiter came to introduce himself and take our drink order, the wine sommelier came with the wine list and took the time to find out our preference and make recommendations. After we made our selection, and he brought us a bottle of an amazing  Nuits-Saint-Georges, he went on to tell us some very interesting stories of the wine region as well as his own personal experiences. Very nice!

"Carnaroli" Rice Risotto

Bacon Eggs and Toast

Our waiter was incredible as well. When we asked him about a few of the selections on the menu, he took the time to explain everything and actually took pleasure in pointing out each detail of the dishes. It was so motivating, we had to try each of the ones he suggested. And were we glad!! The two appetizers we had were a gastronomical combination of flavors that made you want to close your eyes and savor each bite. The first one was called Bacon Eggs and Toast!! Just imagine a 12 Hour Suckling Pig cooked to perfection, where you can actually see and savor each layer; a tasty Tempura Duck Egg on top, Speck Air, Black Truffle Pomme Puree, and Pork Jus. Amazing!! Then we had the "Carnaroli" Rice Risotto, which was made with Duck Prosciutto, Brandy Gel, Burgundy Truffle, and Pickled Onion; all mixed together to create a creamy dish that tantalized the senses.  Both are very popular items on  the menu and I can see why.

Moroccan Lamb

Pan Seared Bransino Bass

For entrees, we had the Moroccan Lamb, cooked to perfection and the Pan Seared Bransino Bass. They were very tasty but I was still reeling from my appetizer experience. 

Finally, we tried three desserts and I can honestly say you really can't go wrong with any. From the decadent chocolate, to the light, fruity cream, each one offered a wonderful ending to a culinary delight.  I highly recommend a night in this magical place, and you will not only receive celebrity treatment, but you'll go home with a reservation to return! Here's their contact      
                                        information (305) 913-8288 

                                        www.mandarinoriental.com/miami/dining/azul/.