The Continental by Stephen Starr launches Weekend Brunch

Stephen Starr’s celebrated Philadelphia restaurant, The Continental, brings global eclectic fare to Miami Beach, in a mid-century modern setting that nods to the era’s fascination with Tiki culture. Located adjacent to the new Aloft Hotel and across from the 1 Hotel on Collins, The Continental Miami joins the growing new restaurant scene north of 20th street in Mid-Beach. 

The menu features a stronger Asian influence than its Philly counterpart, with dishes like Vietnamese spring rolls and a sizzling seafood wor bar, and plenty of Tiki-inspired cocktails and classic martinis to explore.

This new Miami Beach hotspot recently launched a weekend brunch menu, offering classic breakfast staples like the Cuban omelette and brioche French toast, as well as signature dishes like the cheesesteak egg rolls.

I recently paid them a visit during a lazy Saturday afternoon to see what all the buzz was about.

Here’s what I had that day:

One of the first and most important things to note about this particular brunch is the fact that they offer your choice of $25 unlimited Bloody Marys or mimosas, which is a pretty good deal for Miami standards.

If you are unsure about what to start your meal with, going with the cheesesteak egg rolls is always a good idea. A crunchy egg roll wrapper is stuffed with cheesy and meaty goodness, resulting in a perfectly balanced and surprisingly delicate appetizer. Did I mention this is the restaurant’s most famous signature dish? Not surprising coming from the land of Philly Cheesesteaks!

The most brunchy of all my dish selections at The Continental, the hearty and generously portioned huevos rancheros are served on top of two crunchy tortillas filled with beans, chorizo and guacamole, and topped with lime crema and cotija cheese. Perfect for sharing, or if you are very hungry.

Large chunks of Maine lobster are the stars of the side Lobster Mac & Cheese dish. Surprisingly, the al-dente shells and creamy cheese don’t overpower the fish at all, letting its juiciness and sweet flavors stand out.

The burrata salad is a veggie eater’s dream come true, thanks to its creamy and soft cheese served artfully on top of a bed of heirloom tomatoes and blackberries. The flavors and textures of the cheese and the fruit work perfectly together, making this a harmonious, fresh and indulgent dish.

A large lemon scone filled with creme fraiche and paired with vanilla ice cream comprise the Continental’s take on the classic American strawberry shortcake. Not too heavy, not too sweet, this is a nice option if you are trying to keep things on the lighter side. 

However, those that want to end the meal with a bang (which is usually my case), will find the crackerjack sundae to be a favorite among this restaurant’s sweet menu. Made with popcorn ice cream, caramel popcorn, toasted peanuts and caramel sauce, this dessert takes your mouth from sweet to salty and from creamy to crunchy with every bite. 

The Continental

 2360 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. 

305 604 2000