Profile of Stubborn Seed Restaurant in Miami: A Friendly Guide to the City’s Best Dining Experience

Stubborn Seed is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Miami Beach, Florida. It was founded by Chef Jeremy Ford, a James Beard Award Semi-Finalist and Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13 Winner. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including a Michelin star in the highly coveted inaugural Florida guide in 2022.

Stubborn Seed’s menu features contemporary American cuisine with an unrelenting passion for unearthing cravings of the palate while constructing a reward in each bite. The restaurant’s ambiance is modern and sophisticated, with an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the culinary team in action. Stubborn Seed is a popular spot for special occasions and creative cocktails, and it has become a must-visit destination for foodies visiting Miami Beach.

History of Stubborn Seed Restaurant

Stubborn Seed is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Miami Beach, Florida. The restaurant was opened in 2017 by Chef Jeremy Ford, who is also the executive chef of the restaurant.

Chef Ford is a 32-year-old chef from Jacksonville, Florida. He developed a love for cooking after meeting his maternal grandmother when he was 14 years old. He has worked under some of the best chefs in the world, including Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Matther Lightner.

The name of the restaurant, Stubborn Seed, comes from a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: “A weed is a plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.” Chef Ford believes that the same is true for many ingredients that are often overlooked.

The restaurant has received numerous accolades since its opening, including being awarded one Michelin star in the highly coveted inaugural Florida guide in 2022.

Stubborn Seed is Chef Ford’s first solo restaurant, and he is known for his attention to detail and his focus on using fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s menu features American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.

Overall, Stubborn Seed has quickly become one of Miami’s most popular restaurants, known for its innovative cuisine and impeccable service.

Location and Ambience

Located at 101 Washington Ave in Miami Beach, Stubborn Seed is a contemporary American restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is situated in a prime location, just a short walk from the beach and the famous Ocean Drive. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists.

Upon entering the restaurant, guests are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor is sleek and modern, with a minimalist design that allows the food to take center stage. The lighting is dim and intimate, creating a cozy and romantic ambiance. The seating is comfortable and spacious, with a mix of tables and booths to accommodate groups of all sizes.

The staff at Stubborn Seed are friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent service and making guests feel welcome. The chefs are passionate about their craft and take pride in using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients in their dishes. The open kitchen allows guests to watch as their meals are prepared, adding to the overall dining experience.

Overall, the location and ambience of Stubborn Seed are perfect for a romantic night out or a special occasion. The restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience that is sure to impress.

Menu Highlights

Stubborn Seed is a restaurant that prides itself on its tasting menu, which is only available for table service. However, customers who prefer a la carte service can also enjoy the restaurant’s extensive menu. Here are some of the menu highlights that customers can expect to find at Stubborn Seed:

• Snacks: The restaurant offers a variety of snacks, including the popular “Everything Bagel” made with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and pickled red onion.
• Appetizers: The appetizer menu includes dishes such as the “Charred Spanish Octopus” served with chorizo, salsa verde, and crispy potato.
• Entrees: The entree menu features dishes such as the “Roasted Chicken” served with black truffle, foie gras, and bread pudding.
• Desserts: The dessert menu includes items such as the “Chocolate Cremeux” served with hazelnut, caramel, and cocoa nibs.

In addition to the above, Stubborn Seed also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including the “Roasted Cauliflower” served with romesco, golden raisins, and almonds.

It’s important to note that Stubborn Seed enforces a strict dress code, so customers should dress in smart-casual attire. Overall, Stubborn Seed offers a unique dining experience with an extensive menu that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Chef’s Profile

At the helm of Stubborn Seed is Chef Jeremy Ford, winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Chef Ford developed a love for cooking at the age of 14 after meeting his maternal grandmother. He honed his culinary skills at the Florida State College Culinary Arts Program before working in some of the most prestigious kitchens in the country, including The Ritz-Carlton and Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Matador Room.

Chef Ford’s cooking style is modern American, with a focus on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. He is known for his innovative dishes that blend classic techniques with contemporary flavors, resulting in a unique and memorable dining experience. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned him numerous accolades, including the 2022 James Beard Award Semi-Finalist and a Michelin star in the highly coveted inaugural Florida guide.

In an interview with Miami New Times, Chef Ford described his cooking philosophy as “simple, but not easy.” He believes in letting the ingredients speak for themselves and using techniques that enhance their natural flavors. He also values teamwork and collaboration in the kitchen, which he credits as a key factor in his success.

Overall, Chef Jeremy Ford is a talented and passionate chef who has made Stubborn Seed one of the best restaurants in Miami. His dedication to using high-quality ingredients and his innovative approach to cooking make Stubborn Seed a must-visit for foodies and casual diners alike.

Customer Reviews

Stubborn Seed has received rave reviews from customers who have dined at the restaurant. Many customers have praised the restaurant for its exceptional service, delicious food, and overall dining experience. Here are some snippets of what customers have said:

• “One of the best meals I’ve ever had! The service was impeccable, and the food was out of this world. Highly recommend the wagyu beef and the truffle pasta.”
• “Stubborn Seed is a must-visit if you’re in Miami. The ambiance is perfect, and the food is even better. The menu is creative and has something for everyone.”
• “The staff at Stubborn Seed went above and beyond to make our dining experience unforgettable. The chef even came out to greet us and ask how our meal was. We will definitely be back!”
• “The attention to detail at Stubborn Seed is unmatched. Each dish was beautifully presented, and the flavors were incredible. Can’t wait to come back and try more of the menu.”

Overall, customers seem to be thoroughly impressed with Stubborn Seed and the exceptional dining experience it provides. From the impeccable service to the creative and delicious menu, it’s no wonder why this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Awards and Recognitions

Stubborn Seed has received numerous awards and recognitions for its exceptional cuisine and service. Here are some of the most notable ones:

• Michelin Star: In 2022, Stubborn Seed was awarded one Michelin star in the highly coveted inaugural Florida guide. This recognition is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality cooking and exceptional service.
• James Beard Award Semi-Finalist: Owner and Chef Jeremy Ford was named a James Beard Award Semi-Finalist in 2022, further cementing Stubborn Seed’s reputation as one of the top restaurants in Miami.
• Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13 Winner: Chef Jeremy Ford’s culinary skills were recognized on a national level when he won Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13.
• OpenTable’s 100 Best Restaurants in America: Stubborn Seed was named one of OpenTable’s 100 Best Restaurants in America in 2021, a prestigious honor that is based on diner reviews and ratings.
• Miami New Times Best Restaurant: Stubborn Seed has been named the Best Restaurant in Miami by the Miami New Times multiple times, a testament to its consistent excellence.

These awards and recognitions are a testament to Stubborn Seed’s commitment to providing exceptional cuisine and service to its guests. Whether you’re looking for a special occasion dinner or a night out with friends, Stubborn Seed is sure to impress.

Reservations and Service

Stubborn Seed offers reservations that can be made through their website or by calling the restaurant directly. The restaurant recommends making reservations in advance, especially for larger groups or during peak dining hours.

The service at Stubborn Seed is top-notch, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are attentive to guests’ needs. The restaurant also offers private dining options for special occasions or events.

Guests can expect a fine dining experience with a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes, with options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.

The restaurant also offers a full bar with creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. The bar area is a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.

Overall, Stubborn Seed provides a memorable dining experience with exceptional service and delicious food.

Community Involvement

Stubborn Seed is not just a restaurant that serves delicious food, but also a restaurant that cares about its community. The restaurant is actively involved in various community events and charitable causes.

One of the ways Stubborn Seed supports its community is by participating in the annual South Beach Wine and Food Festival. This festival brings together food enthusiasts and industry professionals from all over the world to celebrate food and wine. Stubborn Seed has participated in this festival for several years and has won awards for its outstanding dishes.

In addition to participating in festivals, Stubborn Seed also supports local charities. The restaurant has partnered with various organizations, including the Miami Rescue Mission, to provide meals for the homeless and those in need.

Moreover, Stubborn Seed is committed to sustainability and reducing food waste. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farmers and uses sustainable practices in its kitchen. Any leftover food is donated to local food banks and charities.

Overall, Stubborn Seed is more than just a restaurant. It is a community-focused establishment that strives to make a positive impact on the world.

Future Plans

As one of the most popular restaurants in Miami, Stubborn Seed has a bright future ahead. The restaurant is constantly evolving and looking for new ways to improve the dining experience for its customers. Here are some of the future plans for Stubborn Seed:

Expansion

Stubborn Seed is looking to expand its reach beyond Miami Beach. The restaurant has already gained a reputation as one of the best in Miami, and the team behind it is looking to take their concept to other cities. While there are no concrete plans for expansion yet, the team is actively exploring opportunities to bring their unique dining experience to new locations.

Menu Development

Chef Jeremy Ford is always experimenting with new ingredients and flavor combinations. In the future, he plans to continue developing the menu at Stubborn Seed, introducing new dishes that push the boundaries of traditional American cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to using local and seasonal ingredients will remain a cornerstone of the menu, ensuring that each dish is fresh and flavorful.

Sustainability

Stubborn Seed is committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. In the future, the restaurant plans to take even more steps to become more eco-friendly. This includes reducing waste, sourcing ingredients from local farmers, and using renewable energy sources whenever possible.

Technology

As technology continues to play a bigger role in the restaurant industry, Stubborn Seed is looking for ways to incorporate new technology into the dining experience. This includes using apps and other digital tools to make reservations and order food, as well as using technology to enhance the ambiance of the restaurant.

Overall, Stubborn Seed is a restaurant that is constantly evolving and looking for new ways to improve. With its commitment to sustainability, local ingredients, and innovative cuisine, it is sure to remain a top destination for foodies in Miami and beyond.