Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

How is it October already? It’s hard to believe the year is almost over. The holiday season is looming, and that means one thing: lots and lots of food – especially sweets. If you can’t wait until October 31 to get your fill of treats, we’ve rounded up some of the best spots for desserts and other decadent fare.

First up: Amazonica, located at 1250 S Miami Ave., Suite 601 in Brickell. Although we’re technically in fall now, it’s summer year-round in the 305. Thankfully, this neighborhood gem is open to help you cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. The main attraction here are the cholados, a mix of shaved ice and yummy toppings – including strawberries, bananas, Rice Krispies, Nutella and Maria cookies – that’s super refreshing. The other bestseller here are the obleas, crispy wafer sandwiches with spreads like cookies and cream. There are also healthier options like fruit bowls if you’re counting calories.

Up in Bal Harbour, Makoto at 9700 Collins Ave. (305.864.8600) is mainly known for its award-winning sushi and savory Japanese fare. But did you know there are also some great desserts on the menu? The Okinawan tres leches with its roasted pineapple and Japanese whisky-spiked meringue is a crowd favorite, but it’s the yuzu chocolate cake that’s the closest thing to heaven on a plate. Chocolate ganache, yuzu, blueberry, saketini espuma and vanilla ice cream combine to create a lasting impression that will have you coming back again and again.

For those of us always on the run, Taiyaki at 143 NW 23rd St. in Wynwood’s 1-800-Lucky food hall is the perfect to-go treat. You know what we’re talking about: the ever-present, fish-shaped waffle cones. Filled with ice cream and toppings galore, they also make for a great Insta photo. The Miami location definitely knows its audience, as there are options like Cafécito and Café Con Leche. If you’re not feeling the signature standouts, you can always build your own.

Morelia Gourmet Paletas at 21211 Biscayne Blvd. in Aventura (305.850.4031) has you covered with just about any paleta you can imagine. No idea what a paleta is? Think of it like a popsicle – but way better. The Mexican frozen treat is normally made from natural fruits, although milk-based selections are also common. At Morelia, you have the best of both worlds. For something on the lighter side, you can choose flavors like mango, lime or coconut. For something a little richer, there’s Belgian chocolate, strawberry cheesecake and the s’mores waffle bowl. Dips and toppings are available for your selection, but we’re bigger fans of just eating them as is.

Openings

We’ve been saying it for a while, but it bears repeating: There is no such thing as a slow season in Miami’s culinary scene anymore. Summer was full of restaurant openings, and fall is looking like more of the same. No doubt you’ve heard of the biggest recent opening in Miami: Gekko at 8 SE 8th St. (305.423.8884), a new Brickell hot spot that’s a collaboration between Miami restaurateur David Grutman and award-winning musician and actor Bad Bunny. The Japanese-inspired eatery serves up items like lobster dumplings, wagyu crispy rice, black cod, Hokkaido scallops and spicy bluefin tuna rolls.

On the topic of Asian cuisine, there’s another new kid on the block in Wynwood: Balagan at 295 NW 27th St. The Nikkei spot dishes out a tasty blend of Peruvian and Japanese influences onto the plate. Expect to find standout selections like spicy tuna tostada, Hamachi tiradito, crispy shrimp rolls and salmon belly nigiri. Fans of sake will love the restaurant’s robust list of cocktails like the Balagan Spritz and sake tonic.

And in downtown Miami, Mazeh at 227 NE 2nd St. (786.785.5732) has given residents and visitors alike another great option for Mediterranean fare in the area. The dinner menu is short, but each item is stellar, including the grilled octopus skewers, falafel cigars and the signature Tiffin Box experience (made up of a terrific mezze selection). The cocktails are also worth a look, especially if you’re feeling adventurous – the Smells Like Teen Spirit is a winner.

Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson are co-founders of Miami Food Pug, an award-winning South Florida food blog that fuses that fuses the couple’s love of dogs and food.