Kalamata Mediterranean Cuisine

"Finding a casual, straightforward restaurant in South Beach that does one thing (and does it well) is always a struggle. This is why Kalamata should be on your radar. Maybe it’s not the place to celebrate a birthday, but it makes really good classic Turkish dishes. Start with the meze platter, and try to eat the baba ganoush and shakshuka before the rest of the table notices how good it is. For entrees, focus on lamb—particularly the lamb chops. End with baklava and a general feeling of gratitude that normal, consistent restaurants still exist this close to Ocean Drive." - ryan pfeffer, mariana trabanino, virginia otazo

"Finding a casual, straightforward restaurant in South Beach that does one thing (and does it really well) is always a struggle. This is why Kalamata should be on your radar. Maybe it’s not the place to celebrate a birthday, but it works great for an easy lunch or dinner. You won’t find dessert pyrotechnics or skeptical hosts eying your outfit here—just some of the best classic Turkish dishes in Miami. Start with the meze platter, and try to eat the baba ganoush and shakshuka before the rest of the table notices how good it is. For entrees, focus on lamb—particularly the lamb chops. End with baklava and a general feeling of gratitude that normal, consistent restaurants still exist this close to Ocean Drive. " - virginia otazo, ryan pfeffer, mariana trabanino

"Finding a casual, straightforward restaurant in South Beach that does one thing (and does it really well) is always a struggle. This is why Kalamata should be on your radar. Maybe it’s not the place to celebrate a birthday, but it works great for an easy lunch or dinner. You won’t find dessert pyrotechnics or skeptical hosts eying your outfit here—just some of the best classic Turkish dishes in Miami. Start with the meze platter, and try to eat the baba ganoush and shakshuka before the rest of the table notices how good it is. For entrees, focus on lamb—particularly the lamb chops. End with baklava and a general feeling of gratitude that normal, consistent restaurants still exist this close to Ocean Drive. photo credit: Cleveland Jennings / @eatthecanvasllc" - Ryan Pfeffer

"This South Beach spot makes very tasty Mediterranean food, including gyros. It’s a low-key place where you’ll probably see a bathroom door being propped open with a rusty kettlebell or drunk tourists on the hunt for something to eat. But what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in slow-turning, juicy beef. You’ll have a prime view as they shave off slices just for you. Just try not to look too creepy while you stare at it." - Ryan Pfeffer