At Stubborn Seed in Miami Beach, dining transforms into a curated experience of modern American cuisine. Situated at 101 Washington Avenue, this Michelin-starred establishment crafts dishes that celebrate the essence of seasonal ingredients. The interior exudes a blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance, where exposed brick walls meet sleek metallic accents. Soft lighting casts a warm glow over intimate tables, creating an inviting atmosphere that balances sophistication with comfort. An open kitchen serves as the restaurant's heartbeat, allowing guests to witness the meticulous artistry that goes into each plate.The menu at Stubborn Seed reflects a philosophy of culinary innovation grounded in simplicity. Dishes are thoughtfully composed to highlight the natural flavors of impeccably sourced ingredients. Each presentation is visually striking, with vibrant colors and textures that entice the senses before the first taste. The chefs employ techniques that enhance rather than overshadow the primary elements, ensuring that every component on the plate contributes to a harmonious whole.Signature creations might include inventive interpretations of classic fare, reimagined with a modern twist. Emphasis is placed on freshness and purity, with frequent incorporation of local produce and regional specialties. The culinary teamâ€™s approach is one of restraint and respect for the ingredients, allowing the true character of each to shine through.Stubborn Seed's ambiance fosters a dining experience that is both relaxed and refined. The subtle interplay of natural materials and modern design elements creates a space that is at once chic and approachable. Attention to detail is evident not only in the cuisine but also in the thoughtfully curated wine selections that complement the menu.For discerning diners seeking an exceptional culinary journey in Miami-Dade County, Stubborn Seed offers an experience rooted in creativity and a deep appreciation for quality. It's a place where innovation meets tradition, set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami Beach. The restaurant stands out for its dedication to crafting meals that are as visually stunning as they are satisfying, leaving guests with a lasting impression of culinary excellence.

The Heart of Stubborn Seed

Originally designed to be a neighborhood restaurant with a tasting menu option, Stubborn Seed was always a dream for Jeremy Ford. “We felt like the South of Fifth neighborhood had every other style of food—from Italian to steak to Mediterranean and sushi,” says Ford.

While it’s definitely a neighborhood spot, it’s an elevated dining experience that makes you want to celebrate milestones, anniversaries, and life in general. Mirroring Ford’s bright and happy personality, his cooking philosophy revolves around locally sourced ingredients, put together to create breathtaking works of art that are just as delicious as they are beautiful. “I’ve always focused on a menu that involves local farms,” says Ford, who recently built his own 5.5-acre farm in Miami’s Homestead neighborhood—aptly named Ford’s Farm. “I love being able to incorporate these beautiful products with fun and new techniques in an ever-evolving restaurant.”

The restaurant itself boasts a large open kitchen that’s visible to guests via a massive glass window, where nearly every aspect of the cooking process can be seen. “We're always pushing to try something a little bit dangerous, fun, and new,” says Ford. “Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose, so it's a very test-style kitchen, where a lot of new ingredients are up for experimentation.” Stubborn Seed is the result of Ford’s unrelenting passion and his unapologetic approach. The 78-seat restaurant is equal parts intimate and welcoming, with a large bar and cozy tables that all face the open kitchen.

Every detail, every flavor, and every moment is magically curated to lead guests on an extraordinary culinary journey. Though the menu is constantly changing, guests can look forward to an array of vegetable-forward dishes, freshly baked breads, and savory pastries (cacio e pepe puffs are a fan favorite). The menu also features rich, meaty proteins (dry-aged Crescent Farm duck), and, without a doubt, at least one preparation of foie gras (like a honeynut squash and foie gras tart)—Ford’s absolute favorite dish. Each seasonal dish is a testament to Ford's dedication to high-quality ingredients and culinary artistry.