Hot Chicken in Miami

Midtown's Brasserie Azur is incredibly good-looking. But rest assured you won't find any of the pomp associated with its South Beach sister party spot, Villa Azur. Sure, both eateries serve French fare with an Italian twist by executive chef Edwin Mallet, but Brasserie Azur is more casual and affordable. Here, you'll find plenty of wines by the glass for $8 or less and bottles for under $50, which is rare in Miami. Food-wise, there's a well-stocked raw bar and an impressive selection of charcuterie and cheeses, as well as five rotisserie-chicken preparations. Choosing among a plain farm-raised chicken, one marinated in truffles, and one flavored with lemon and rosemary isn't easy. Chef Mallet says they slow-roast the bird until the meat is juicy and tender. And indeed, the protein boasts both of those qualities in addition to being expertly seasoned. However, Brasserie Azur will need more than good looks and topnotch rotisserie chicken to fill all of its cushioned seats. Superior service and more refined cookery are what this eatery requires to leave its mark on Miami's ever-improving dining scene.