The new Big Fish: Estiatorio Milos

Milos' cold case

Everyone who's anyone has been talking about Milos, which is sure to be the hot restaurant in Sofi this season. What are they saying? That the place is beautiful, the food is exquisite and... some of the most expensive food they ever had, Greek or otherwise. One friend told me she and her husband spent $200 on a whole fish her first trip there. Sure, they give the price of the fish per pound, but if you want to stay solvent, you better ask how much it weighs. Another friend told me she went on a double date there and everyone at the table ordered freely, because they were feeling a bit "celebratory." Fortunately, her date was a big enough fish himself so the party didn't end when the bill came to $1000 per couple. True story.

So when I had a chance to go, I was excited, and a little nervous. Could it really be that expensive? Yes, and no. There is plenty to eat at different price points. Some whole fish cost more than others so if you get a big one that's $50/pound, yeah, your bill will be high, but it will also be a lot of food. Entrees are priced at the usual South Beach fancy restaurant price of $38-$45 or so, which might be a good option if you don't want any surprises. But, there are other ways to experience Milos and it's beautifully designed dining room more reasonably. The first one is the Pre/Post Theater dinner menu which runs 5-7pm Monday to Saturday and on Sunday from 5pm til close. This gives you four courses from a $49 menu filled with succulent classics like the Charcoal Grilled Mediterranean Octopus, the Lavraki (Mediterranean Seabass from Cephalonia), Lamb Chop and their famous Baklava. The other way is with the $20.12 lunch menu that is making a buzz. It offers three courses in good sizes and a few pricier options for a $10 supplement.

There is even a third, more casual option. Go for a quick bite at the marketplace tucked off to the side of the restaurant. There they sell the top quality items they use in the kitchen like sea salt, olive oil, aps and other tapas style dishes on a long communal table. I imagine affluent Sofiers might swing by and pick up Milos' version of "to go" on a causal Tuesday night. My take on the place? Go. The ingredients are obviously of the highest quality, the food is delicious, clean, perfectly seasoned.

Beautiful, but a bit cold... bring a sweater!

The secret to perfect fish

730 First Street, Miami Beach 305.604.6800