Bey Bey

One of the worst dining experiences I’ve had in recent years was at Bey Bey, just a few weeks after it first opened in 2024. Coincidentally, one of the best meals I’ve had lately was also at Bey Bey when it reopened for the second time, under the culinary direction of acclaimed chef Roberto Solis (owner of Huniik in Merida). I thoroughly believe in second chances, and I’m so glad I gave the Sunset Harbour restaurant another shot. From the impeccable service to the imaginative Lebanese-meets-Mexican menu—and the fun after-hours lounge just beyond the velvet curtains—the buzzy spot now lives up to the hype.

The vibe: Electric, with a cool, energetic crowd of all ages. The indoor dining room is compact and cozy, with interesting art punctuating the walls and shelving. Outdoors is covered, candlelit and moody, but not impervious to strong rain or wind, so check the weather before you book. The adjacent lounge buzzed with all types of people, from OG South Beach Gen Xers to virile Gen Zers and nostalgic Millennials (me), reminded of nights out at the now-defunct lounge Bardot.

The food: Did you know that approximately 1.5 million Lebanese people settled in Mexico at the turn of the 20th century? Well, neither did I. This lesser-known migratory pattern makes for one of the most exciting menus in Miami right now. Less fusion and more intentional blending, the selection of shareable dishes highlights the best of both cuisines. Standouts included the za’atar short rib served with tortillas, confetti rice (basmati rice, raisins, saffron, pistachio, pomegranate) and the kibbe steak tartare (crisped bulgur, pine nuts, carne, leche de tigre, achiote, za’atar)—a reinvented kebab packed with all the flavors you know and love. Load up on sauces (for an extra charge) and get to dipping.

The drink: Cocktails are tasty, balanced and well-priced at $17–$18 each. The Heritage Gimlet was just as described: fresh, citrusy, aromatic and bright, while the Peralta Old Fashioned delivered on its “silky-smooth” promise. I enjoyed everything I sampled but found the drink descriptions—or lack thereof—to be annoying.

Time Out tip: The “loosies” on the dessert menu really took me back to my nights at smoke-filled Bardot. Incredulous, I ordered one and received a single slim cigarette and a lighter to partake. Whether you’re a smoker, a casual puffer or simply in it for the irreverence of it all, it’s an amusing touch.