I Didn't Think Sunny's Could Get Better... Until It Did
The pandemic era steakhouse pop-up continues to wow
I've watched Will Thompson and Carey Hynes grow their pandemic pop-up into Miami's next big thing, trading their downtown spot Jaguar Sun for a 13,000-square-foot playground in Little River. When I walked in to Sunny’s Steakhouse for the first time, I was relieved to see they kept the soul of their operation intact - that massive banyan tree from the pop-up days still anchors a dreamy courtyard, while indoors brings white-tablecloth polish with Murano glass chandeliers and mid-century flair.
Can a pop-up darling survive the jump to the big leagues?
After several visits since opening, I'm convinced this spot's got legs. The steaks have leveled up, the pasta game is stronger, and they've managed to scale up their intimate vibe to fit a much bigger stage. Where most new Miami spots this size lose their soul, I've watched Sunny's keep its heart while growing its party.
What to Eat & Drink: I always start with the Green Ghoul cocktail, a Jaguar Sun favorite that brings its smoky-spicy tequila-mezcal magic to the new space. Regarding food, I keep returning to the Prime Hanger steak - it might be the cheapest cut, but I swear it packs more flavor than some of its pricier siblings. The corn agnolotti with blue crab and saffron make me glad they brought it north from Jaguar Sun, while the duck and foie terrine with mango mustard shows me the kitchen's got serious range. I've learned never to skip those Parker House rolls with honey butter - they're perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Don't Miss: Those playful large-format cocktails served in animal vessels - I couldn't stop smiling when my martini arrived in a googly-eyed cow pitcher. I've noticed the outdoor bar has a way of turning into an impromptu after-party spot once dinner winds down.
Perfect For: Perfect for date night or dining solo at the bar (the courtyard one hits different), and watched groups splurge on that massive Wagyu ribeye for the table. The crowd I see mixes cool Miami kids who followed the team from downtown with serious food people who've caught wind of the pasta program.
Pro Tips: I've had good luck snagging bar seats as a walk-in, especially during happy hour (Wednesday through Sunday, 5-7pm). If your night's going well, stay at the outdoor bar post-dinner.
Expect to Pay: For the full experience, expect to spend around $200 per person with drinks. You can trim that by sharing those massive steaks (most are meant for the table anyway), but this isn't the spot to pinch pennies.
How's the parking? While there's valet and some street parking available, I always grab a ride share. Little River's still finding its footing after dark, so better safe than sorry when it comes to walking those blocks post-dinner.
@sunnysmia // 7357 NW Miami Ct, Little River