Sea Siam, Pinecrest

Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese flavors come together at Sea Siam, where the family behind the restaurant has served Asian cuisine since 1985. At the sushi bar, chefs filet fresh fish and plate whisper-thin slices of sashimi or assemble dragon rolls—and maybe even load a sushi boat, ready to sail right into a dinner party's warm, dock-like embrace. The kitchen takes care of the cooked portion of the menu, and servers bring out savory dishes such as chicken pad thai or crispy duck. Heat-lovers can order the panang curry, praised by the Miami New Times for a spice that "hurts so good"—although they might be advised to request a glass of sweet thai tea, too.