Catch of the day - Executive Dining/Miami River - Brief Article

South Florida CEO, Sept, 2003 by Johanna Marmon

In lieu of our regular "Executive Dining" column, we present a sampling of the eateries along the Miami River--the subject of this month's cover story.

Suprisingly enough, there are few restaurants actually on the Miami River--part of the greater mystery of Miami-Dade's dearth of waterfront dining. What is there, however, is an interesting mix of choices. And the view can't be beat.

* Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish Market, 398 NW North River Dr., 305-375-0765.

If you head out to Garcia's for lunch, go a little early to avoid the throngs that invariably show up for Miami's best dolphin sandwich. Deftly fried conch fritters are a nice way to start your meal--along with the eatery's equally famous fish dip, which shows up on the table instead of boring old bread and butter. Lunch and dinner.

* Joe's Seafood Market & Restaurant, 400 NW North River Dr., 305-381-9329.

Next door to Garcia's, Joe's is more rustic, and offers much more al fresco seating. The view from both is dockside, on a stretch of the river best called "industrial romantic? Another popular spot for lunch, the restaurant offers tangy ceviches, its own fish dip, and freshly caught local fish. Broiled kingfish at its best. Lunch and dinner.

* Big Fish, 55 SW Miami Ave., 305-373-1770.

Dressed-up suits as well as sunburned tourists frequent this riverfront restaurant, which serves sparkling fresh local fish. An outdoor bar lends to the funky dockside ambience of the eatery, which is on the south side of the river near the Miami Avenue bridge. Pastas, fish soups and fish served whole are the specialties at this pretty restaurant--which packs a heftier price tag than either Joe's or Garcia's. Lunch and dinner.