In the heart of Miami’s vibrant beachfront, Ocean Social stands as a testament to elevated waterfront dining. Situated in the legendary Eden Roc Hotel, it offers a picturesque panorama of the ocean, setting the stage for an exceptional dining experience. Ocean Social is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination where upscale dining meets the relaxed ambience of Miami’s coastal charm. From leisurely lunches by the azure waters to unforgettable sunsets accompanied by aperitifs, every visit is an event in itself. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere complements a menu brimming with dishes that are as delightful in taste as they are in value, focusing on global flavours and the finest local ingredients. Here, one can indulge in vibrant salads and meticulously crafted cocktails, embodying the spirit of communal dining.
Chef Tristen Epps: The Culinary Visionary of Ocean Social
Executive Chef Tristen Epps brings a blend of world-class culinary expertise and local flair to his role at Eden Roc Miami Beach. As the mastermind behind Ocean Social, he oversees an array of culinary operations, infusing his award-winning approach into everything from the signature restaurant to in-room dining and more. Chef Epps’ menu at Ocean Social is a celebration of seafood, enriched with global and Caribbean influences, a hallmark of his distinguished style. His journey in the culinary world is marked by collaborations with renowned chefs like Richard Rosendale, Thomas Keller, and Troy Guard, and his tenure at Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster in Miami, which earned critical acclaim and a Michelin Bib Gourmand. A winner on Food Network’s “Chopped” and a recognised Rising Star Chef by Star Chefs of America, Chef Epps’ contributions to the culinary landscape are both significant and inspiring.
Exquisite flavours by the sea
For starters, the Key West Shrimp Toast is a masterful blend of textures and flavours. The toast itself, crispy and golden, provides a perfect canvas for the tender shrimp. The aji amarillo brings a subtle heat, beautifully balanced by the sweet touch of garlic honey. The dashi mustard espuma, airy and light, adds an umami complexity that elevates the dish into a memorable appetiser. The Golden King Crab claws are a triumph of simplicity and flavour. Hand-cracked, they retain their natural, sweet essence, which is complemented but not overshadowed by the mustard dashi dip—a delicate accompaniment that enhances rather than competes with the crab’s freshness.
For the mains, the C.A.B Fire Roasted Short Rib is a standout dish. The short rib, cooked to tender perfection with a fire-roasted technique, falls apart at the slightest touch. Paired with king krab and kimchi fried rice, the dish offers a harmonious balance of savoury and spicy. The slow-cooked egg, with its creamy yolk, and the charred cabbage add layers of texture and flavour, while the caramelised fish sauce infuses a sweet-salty glaze that ties all components together.
The Butter Roasted Lobster is a testament to Ocean Social’s mastery of seafood. Bathed in seaweed lemon butter, the lobster is succulent, with the butter adding a rich, velvety texture. Turnips and local herbs bring earthiness and freshness, making each bite a celebration of the sea and land. Crispy Peewee Potatoes are a good choice to accompany the mains. The umami seasoning elevates these bite-sized delights, while the chives provide a fresh, oniony contrast.
Desserts at Ocean Social are an artistic display. The Popcorn Cheesecake is an imaginative creation, where the dulcey cremeux and popcorn dust create a playful yet sophisticated flavour profile. The banana brown butter ice cream is the crowning jewel, adding a creamy, rich texture. The Valrhona Chocolate Torte is a chocolate lover’s dream, with layers of manjari mousse, praline, and gianduja, complemented by the toasted milk ice cream for a luxurious finish.
The cocktail menu is equally impressive. The Froze Rosé, with its blend of Tito’s vodka, Kelvin slush, and all day rosé, is refreshingly chic, perfect for sipping by the ocean. The Smokey Old Fashioned, with Nelson’s green brier sour mash and proof syrup, is a sophisticated take on a classic. The signature Ocean’s Roc cocktail is a tropical indulgence, with plantation pineapple rum and Aperol, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and bitter.
A Refreshed Space with Stunning Views
The recent rejuvenation of Ocean Social’s space complements its culinary excellence. With options ranging from open-air seating to a covered patio, the restaurant features a retractable roof, blending seamlessly into the Miami seascape. Its decor, characterised by light wood and neutral tones, creates an environment where the ocean views take centre stage. The dining experience is augmented by dishes that resonate with the light, airy ambiance of the restaurant, perfect for those seeking respite from the Miami sun. Highlights include the delicate white gazpacho, garnished with apple slices and sorbet, and the vibrant ceviche, bursting with lime. The menu primarily showcases inventive seafood dishes, such as rock shrimp spaghetti with Gold Bar squash, and a unique dry-aged swordfish t-bone, each an example of Chef Epps’ culinary innovation.
The ambiance of Ocean Social enhances the dining experience manifold. The breathtaking ocean views, the convivial atmosphere, and the live DJ create a sensory experience that complements the exquisite food. It’s a place not just for dining but for socialising, where every element from the plate to the surroundings contributes to an unforgettable culinary adventure.