ichelle Bernstein, of her eponymous Michy's, has crafted a restaurant that is as sophisticated as it is low-key, showcasing her contemporary Mediterranean menu that's as exciting as it is accessible. The 60-seat dining room is intimate without seeming cliquish; Orange ultrasuede banquettes brighten up one side of the room, while vintage chairs and tables fill the rest of the dining room.

After creating a solid reputation at high-end spots Tantra, The Strand and Azul at Miami's Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Ms Michy really seems to have found her groove at her own entity. Dinner at Michy's is a more leisurely affair, and, considering the prices (a three-course dinner hovers around $90) and the expertly submissive service, possibly also more economical.

The menu is divided into tapas-sized portions and larger orders; it is the former of which is the real draw here, while larger mains are reminiscent of Bernstein's old locales. Many of her menu items are from the North where she is already used to sourcing some of the best ingredients on earth for the past many years, while she takes her time discovering the best sources for fish, meat and poultry in the South Florida area.

Michy's offerings aren't extensive, but with captivating choices like Seared scallops with a small tasting of spicy oxtail stew; tuna carpaccio with a little celery root salad and soy; and sautéed croquetas of ham and blue cheese (for those who can't do without blue cheese), diners will still need time to peruse and decide.