South of Fifth’s New Mediterranean Escape: Welcome to Cleo
- rcastro05
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
A fresh dining experience has arrived in Miami Beach, bringing the bold, diverse flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean to the South of Fifth neighborhood. Cleo, nestled inside the historic Balfour, serves modern, shareable plates with its “mezze-style” menu designed to bring people together.
When guests enter the restaurant, they are immediately transported to a space where the energy of the Mediterranean comes alive. The warm, welcoming art deco-inspired interiors are enhanced by natural light, Balearic jazz and a central olive tree, transforming Cleo into a chic gathering spot perfect for long lunches, date nights and lively celebrations. Guests can also dine in the
poolside courtyard or on the terrace.
The kitchen is helmed by Chef Camila Olarte, a culinary mastermind with over 15 years of experience crafting globally inspired dishes that push the boundaries of flavor. Chef Olarte’s expertise has been honed through her roles at some of the world’s finest dining establishments, including Los Fuegos by Francis Mallman, The Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller, and The French Laundry, Napa Valley’s prestigious three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Highlights include Moutabel ($10), a smoky eggplant dip topped with pomegranate; crispy Spicy Cigars ($14) filled with spiced lamb; Wagyu Beef Skirt Steak Kebabs ($36); and fresh, flaky Grilled Branzino ($40).
The restaurant’s beverage program is equally refined, offering expertly crafted cocktails that mirror the sophistication of the menu. Libations include signature cocktails like the 3 Coasts Martini ($17), a blend of French vodka, Italian aromatized wine and Spanish sherry, and the Basbousa Ramos ($16), a spiced twist on a classic cocktail with hints of saffron and Amalfi lemon. During happy hour, unwind with $5 Mythos beer, $10 signature cocktails and half-off wines by the glass.
Located at 350 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139, Cleo offers breakfast daily from 8:30 a.m. to noon and lunch from noon to 3 p.m., with happy hour mezzes and drinks available at the restaurant bar, dining room, exterior terrace and tropical poolside courtyard from 3-6 p.m. Dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 5-10 p.m. and extended until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
For reservations, book via OpenTable, email CleoMiami@morgansoriginals.com or call 305.913.6552.
For more information, visit cleomiami.com or follow on Instagram.