As the visionary behind Spicy Hospitality Group, Andre Sakhai approaches Miami with the same sensibility he brings to his restaurants: thoughtful, dynamic, and always attuned to what feels genuinely exciting. His Miami is a city defined by cultural intersections—where world-class contemporary art at ICA Miami meets the architectural energy of the Design District, and where an intimate speakeasy like The Joyce can shape an entire evening. From savoring Thai brilliance at Lung Yai Tapas to embracing the city’s nocturnal pulse, Sakhai’s insights reveal a Miami that is both refined and alive with possibility.
He generously took the time to speak to Whitewall about his favorite places to see art, the city’s most inspiring neighborhood vibes, and the unforgettable flavors he returns to again and again.
Portrait of Andre Sakhai, Courtesy of Spicy Hospitality Group.
WHITEWALL: Best place to see art?
ANDRE SAKHAI: ICA Miami. The curatorial vision is thoughtful and forward-looking, and its dedication to championing emerging and under-recognized artists ensures it remains at the forefront of contemporary culture. The museum makes contemporary art accessible to everyone and continues to shape how people experience culture in the city.
WW: Best neighborhood vibe?
AS: The Miami Design District. It is the cultural epicenter of Miami, where art, architecture, food, and fashion all intersect. You can spend the entire day within one square mile, taking in an art installation, stepping into a gallery, grabbing a coffee, shopping, or sitting down for an exceptional meal, and experience so many different worlds at once. It’s inspiring.
WW: Best-kept secret?
AS: The Joyce. If you know, you know. We started it on Española Way as a modern restaurant meets speakeasy, built around the idea of bringing art, design, and dining together in a way that feels natural. The space features Gio Ponti chairs, Joe Colombo bar stools, incredible lighting, and a menu that’s technique-driven yet relaxed, with a sense of American style nostalgia. Chef James Taylor leads the kitchen, and he’s one of the most talented chefs in Miami right now. It’s intimate, high-energy, and captures the side of Miami Beach that’s understated, refined, and quietly exceptional.
WW: Best meal?
AS: Lung Yai Tapas. It’s a small, no-nonsense Thai spot on Calle Ocho that delivers every time. The food comes out fast and the experience is authentic from start to finish. It’s the type of place you go once and immediately understand why locals swear by it.
WW: For your best 24 hours in Miami, where would we find you morning, noon, and night?
AS: Morning at Reserve Padel. It’s the best way to start the day, clear your head, and get moving. Lunch at The Taco Stand—simple, consistent, and always satisfying. And at night, in the streets. Miami comes alive after dark, and you’ll find me somewhere between music, friends, and whatever’s happening next.
“Miami comes alive after dark, and you’ll find me somewhere between music, friends, and whatever’s happening next,”
Andre Sakhai
The Best of Miami, According to Andre Sakhai
1. ICA Miami
Andre Sakhai with Jadé Fadojutimi’s “A point to pointlessness,” 2019 at ICA Miami; Courtesy of Spicy Hospitality Group.
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) is dedicated to promoting continuous experimentation in contemporary art, advancing new scholarship, and fostering the exchange of art and ideas throughout the Miami region and internationally. Through an energetic calendar of exhibitions and programs, and its collection, ICA Miami provides an important international platform for the work of local, emerging, and under-recognized artists, and advances the public appreciation and understanding of the most innovative art of our time. The museum is deeply committed to providing open, public access to artistic excellence by offering year-round free admission. – ICA Miami
2. The Joyce
The Joyce, Miami; Courtesy of Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Chef James Taylor has enchanted culinary enthusiasts and food critics across the U.S. for over a decade. After training at Le Cordon Bleu Chicago, he honed his epicurean skills and expertise at Bavette’s Bar and Boeuf Steakhouse (Hogsalt Hospitality), followed by leadership roles at Michelin-starred havens Roister (★) and Alinea (★★★). Since 2021, James has captivated the discerning palates of esteemed private clients, who encouraged James to share his talents with the world. – The Joyce
3. Lung Yai Tapas
Courtesy of Lung Yai Tapas.
A Michelin-Recognized Thai Experience. Lung Yai Thai Tapas is more than a restaurant — it’s a culinary journey through Thailand, right in the heart of Little Havana. Led by a Bangkok-born chef, Lung Yai has earned multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand awards for its bold, authentic dishes that perfectly balance salty, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. From fragrant red and green curries to the deeply savory palo moo, every plate is crafted with passion, precision, and tradition.Recognized by both global and local critics, Lung Yai continues to set the standard for Thai cuisine in Miami. – Lung Yai Tapas
4. The Taco Stand
The Taco Stand; Courtesy of The Miami Guide.
Originating from the lively border region of Tijuana, Aram and Julian, our founders, are two passionate culinary aficionados on a mission to capture the essence of their homeland’s flavors. Inspired by Tijuana’s bustling taco stands and their culinary adventures across the Baja Peninsula, they founded the first Taco Stand in San Diego in 2013 and are dedicated to bringing the authentic taste of Mexican food to taco enthusiasts all over America. – The Taco Stand
