Walking into COTE feels like stepping onto the set of a very expensive sci-fi movie. The neon-lit entrance, dramatic lighting, and glass-walled dry-aging room give off serious "dining in the future" vibes. But this isn't just style over substance. This Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse in the Design District has figured out how to make Korean barbecue feel like a special occasion.
The genius here is simple: they took everything great about Korean barbecue and fixed everything annoying about it. You still get the fun of tableside grilling, but trained servers handle the cooking so you don't have to stress about ruining expensive meat or leaving smelling like a campfire. Every table features a built-in smokeless grill, and watching the staff work is like watching a performance art piece.
Your move is the Butcher's Feast ($78 per person). You'll get four cuts of USDA Prime and American Wagyu beef, plus all the Korean sides, that incredible egg soufflé that bubbles away in a stone pot, two stews, and soft serve with soy sauce caramel for dessert. It's honestly one of the best dining deals in Miami when you consider you're eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The 45-day dry-aged ribeye has that funky, complex flavor that meat nerds lose their minds over. If you're feeling flush, spring for some Japanese A5, but honestly, the American cuts here are so good you won't feel like you're missing out.
The wine program is serious with 1,200+ labels that have earned James Beard nominations, but the sommeliers aren't pretentious about it. They'll actually help you find something good instead of just pushing the most expensive bottle.
The vibe: High-energy and glamorous, like Korean barbecue threw a party and invited all the cool kids.
The food: Premium beef cooked by people who know what they're doing, with Korean sides that make you realize how good this cuisine can be.
The drink: An award-winning wine list and cocktails that hold their own against all that rich, smoky meat.
Time Out tip: Can't get a reservation? Try Magic Hour, happy hour from 5-7pm at the bar. No reservation needed, and you can sample their hits without the usual waitlist drama.