Shay Williams
Google
Stunning Views, Excellent Service… But the Food Misses the Mark
Pamplemousse on the Bay offers one of the most beautiful outdoor atmospheres in Miami. The waterfront setting and sunset views are truly breathtaking, and the service was equally impressive! Very attentive, friendly, and welcoming from the moment we arrived. Unfortunately, the food told a very different story.
We started with the charcuterie board and hummus. I initially thought there had been a mistake with the charcuterie as it came with no cheese. After our server kindly checked with the chef, we were told that their board is intentionally served with only meats. While I appreciated the clarification, I personally find charcuterie much more enjoyable when there’s a balance of meats and cheeses, so I ended up not eating much of it.
Wanting to give the food another chance, I ordered the chicken skewers and fries. Oddly enough, both were covered in cheese, quite the contrast from the cheese-less charcuterie. The chicken was cold and overcooked at the same time, chewy, and topped with an overpowering blue cheese. The fries were equally disappointing, served cold with thick chunks of unmelted cheese. Unfortunately, I didn’t eat these either.
After a $150 bill for food I barely touched, I decided to share my experience with management. To their credit, the owner personally came to speak with me. When I mentioned the charcuterie, he explained that it traditionally includes only meat, which I hadn’t known, and I thanked him for the insight. I also shared my concerns about the rest of the meal. Later in the evening, he returned to tell me I had been overcharged by $15 due to not receiving happy hour pricing and offered to either refund the difference or buy me a drink. I appreciated the gesture but reiterated that my concern was not about the cost, it was the quality and preparation of the food.
As a Miami local, I truly wanted to enjoy this spot. Unfortunately, while the setting and service are outstanding, the food fell far below expectations. I wouldn’t recommend Pamplemousse on the Bay for dining, but it could be worth a visit for a drink to catch the sunset. Just don’t come hungry.