Alex Markow

By Gisel Habibnejad Photography by Alex Markow Walking into Modern Garden, inside Seaspice, one can’t help but feel as if they’ve just stepped into an oasis – a modern version, that is. Large floor-to-ceiling trees, made from wood, expand to the top; and orchids of fuchsia petals line up across the dining booths. Watching diners admire the architecture and unique interior design that went into the permanent art installation, by architect Santiago Jose Palaez, assures the sheer elegance the eatery has successfully accomplished. An extension of the popular Seaspice, the Crudo bar and hot-stone concept are what make up most of the dishes offered by Modern Garden. Located on the Miami River, you can choose to arrive by boat as the restaurant offers a 550ft private dock. Upon arrival, your only worry for the next few hours will be deciding which exquisite items to choose from. We can assure you each dish is equipped with bountiful flavor and delightful notes of zest hitting you from different directions. Start off your night with the delicious Meli Melo. The delectable dish includes tuna, yellowtail, ginger, and crispy pappadum topped with hummus made from edamame. However, the ingredient that takes center stage is the salmon, which sits beneath the hummus. This particular top quality salmon comes from the Faroe Islands located between Iceland and Norway. If this dish sounds familiar to you, it is probably because it was on the Seaspice menu previously – except now with an added twist. A newbie to the menu, Summertime adds the right amount of flavor to Florida native amberjacks with mango puree and watermelon radish in every bite. True to the name, the watermelon pieces add the perfect refreshing element for those hot summer nights. Another new dish racking up the freshness with watermelon radish is the Watermelon Radish Salad, which really lets this special produce stand out as the main ingredient. The homegrown vegetable stars alongside edamame, almond snowflakes, ginger sauce, and wasabi. When an 8500 volcanic stone slab is served at your table, you know this restaurant means business. Housed in an 8500 oven for 24 hours, the stones are used by guests to cook their steak at their own table to their very liking (preferably medium rare). The Spinalis is the most exceptional cut of meat from the cow with clear marbelization to prove it. Just add your desired amount of volcanic salt to get started on your culinary adventure. Perhaps it is the carefully crafted dishes, amazing view of the Miami River bank, or the impeccable service provided that keeps Miamians coming back for more. One thing is for sure – the restaurant serves as the perfect triple treat! Modern Garden is located at 422 NW North River Drive, Miami, FL 33128 For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.SeaspiceMiami.com/about/ModernGarden Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view the online issue.