In 2020 during the pandemic, a pop-up restaurant called Sunny’s opened in Miami. It quickly became a magical outdoor dining destination located on Lot 6 in Little River. Beneath the stars and a majestic banyan tree adorned with twinkling lights, guests enjoyed a small, thoughtfully curated menu that offered delicious dishes. When Sunny’s closed, I truly mourned the loss of such a special place.
There were whispers of its return, but after 2½ years of waiting, I had nearly given up hope. In the meantime, I became a loyal patron of their sister restaurant, Jaguar Sun—an eccentric gem known for its delectable pasta and stellar cocktails. Then, to my delight, Sunny’s made a long-awaited comeback as Sunny’s Steakhouse.
Reopening in its original location after extensive renovations, Sunny’s Steakhouse has maintained its charm while evolving into a stunning full-service restaurant. Located at 7357 NW Miami Ct. in an industrial area, the transformation is truly impressive. Once a rustic space with peeling paint, an outdoor makeshift kitchen, and a less-than-ideal bathroom, it is now a masterfully designed 13,000-square-foot venue. The outdoor courtyard and iconic banyan tree remain, but there’s now an elegant indoor dining room complete with white tablecloths, marble floors, Murano glass light fixtures, and mirrored walls with palm tree lattice designs. The new space also features a glass-enclosed exhibition kitchen, an enclosed dining area, and another room overlooking the courtyard that’s perfect for private events.
The design is a blend of Florida charm and mid-century modern elegance. There are two bars: the original stand-up outdoor bar and a new indoor U-shaped bar where guests can enjoy drinks, snacks, or a full meal. Even the restrooms have received a fabulous upgrade!
The revamped menu, under the leadership of co-owners Carey Hines and Will Thompson and Executive Chef Aaron Brooks (formerly of Edge Steakhouse at the Four Seasons Miami), is better than ever. Chef Brooks, an Australian culinary talent, is a master of steak preparation—but the menu extends well beyond steak. It features raw seafood dishes, fresh salads, wood-fired proteins, house-made kinds of pasta, and steakhouse classics. Many beloved dishes from Jaguar Sun have been brought over, including their Parker House rolls with honey butter, the agnolotti with creamed corn and crab, and their mini ice cream sandwiches served on warm, flaky pastry.
Highlights include the rotisserie chicken, perfectly cooked rib-eye and hanger steaks, crispy fried potatoes (an absolute must-order every time), and flavorful salads like the Caesar and gem lettuce options. Sunny’s also retains its award-winning bar program, offering 148 martini variations alongside a mix of classic and craft cocktails. The wine selection has been expanded, and the menu includes a thoughtful range of low- and no-alcohol beverages.
From its humble beginnings to this impressive transformation, Sunny’s Steakhouse has remained committed to exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence. It’s no surprise that it recently earned a spot on Bon Appetite’s list of must-visit restaurants for 2024.
Sunny’s Steakhouse is a shining star in Miami’s culinary scene, offering one of the city’s best dining experiences. Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
01/11/2025
