Tucked inside the storied The Betsy Hotel on legendary Ocean Drive, LT Steak & Seafood offers a rare blend of New American sophistication and easy-going beachside charm. Under the guidance of internationally acclaimed chef Laurent Tourondel, this restaurant has cemented itself as a staple of Miami Beach’s culinary scene since its opening.
Culinary Craft & Global Sensibility
LT Steak & Seafood draws on Tourondel’s vast and storied background—from his upbringing in rural France to leading kitchens across New York, Las Vegas, and London. The menu reflects that global pedigree: French technique, Asian influences, and Latin American flair all converge into dishes rooted in local, sustainably sourced ingredients.
Expect USDA Prime and Black Angus steaks cooked to perfection, alongside carefully prepared seafood and fresh-caught fish. Vegetarians aren’t sidelined—meatless dishes are thoughtfully conceived so they feel deliberate, not an afterthought. And every meal begins with the restaurant’s signature popovers—a tribute to Tourondel’s time living and cooking in Europe and a small but unmistakable teaser of the care and finesse to follow.
Atmosphere: Elegance Meets the Sea
Inside The Betsy, LT offers a dining environment that blends old-world elegance with South Beach energy. With a capacity of around 60 seats (and up to 120 for a complete buyout), the space remains intimate even when bustling. Guests can dine indoors or al fresco—sandwiched between Art Deco architecture and Atlantic breezes—offering a unique Miami Beach experience that pairs fine dining with coastal ease.
What also sets LT apart is its commitment to consistency. In an industry known for fast turnover and fleeting trends, LT has matured gracefully: many signature dishes remain on the menu years after the restaurant first opened, loved by locals and travelers alike.
Signatures & Standouts
Favorites among regulars include the spicy tuna roll, the Betsy crab cake, and various steaks that live up to their hype. Another enduring hit: the short-rib bao bun—which has remained on the menu since the restaurant’s debut.
And then there’s the ambiance: live music frequently floats through the dining room, often courtesy of a jazz pianist downstairs in The Betsy, reinforcing a vibe that feels just as elegant as it does relaxed.
Why It Matters in Miami Beach’s Culinary Landscape
When LT Steak & Seafood opened 15 years ago, it set out to rewrite expectations for Ocean Drive — historically better known for neon nightlife than refined dining. With Tourondel at the helm and The Betsy’s heritage ambiance providing context, the restaurant has played a major part in elevating South Beach’s status as a serious gastronomic destination.
It’s that mix of global culinary craftsmanship, local flavor, and elegant but approachable atmosphere that makes LT a standout — whether you’re stopping by for a beachside brunch, a laid-back lunch, or a celebratory dinner under the glow of Ocean Drive’s lights.
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