Feed Your Body and Soul at Canyon Ranch

While most people were were avoiding driving over the weekend at all costs (water up to your knees does not equal good driving weather), I decided to venture down to Miami Beach for a stay at Canyon Ranch for once I arrived, I knew I would be entering into a period of pure bliss – a spa, a luxurious hotel, flavorful food – really, could you ask for much more?

The Canyon Ranch is located on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. This property is less than a year old and encompasses all that the original Canyon Ranch located in Arizona does. Once you step foot on to the property, be prepared to feel more balanced, centered and yes, it’s time to relax. Actually, it’s hard not to as they have done everything right – the color, the aroma and the lay out of the resort all add to this feeling of bliss.

Although, Canyon Ranch Grill isn’t the center of the property, it brings together everything Canyon Ranch is trying to accomplish, making it easy to feed the body and the soul. Chef Rafael Diaz de Leon has created a wholesome menu and focuses on the importance of using organic ingredients (think Paradise Farms without driving to Homestead). You will be well aware of how many calories, fat grams, protein, carbs, etc go into your body here as all the nutritional information is posted right on the menu. (I still can’t figure out if I like this, as I know in certain cities they are trying to make this mandatory. I think I’d like to enjoy my food too much than having to worry about this every time I go out to eat.)

To start off our meal, I ordered a herbal cocktail (lavendar infused vodka with fresh blueberrries). It was quite tasty, though I still enjoy just sipping on my drink rather than having to worry about random ingredients floating around. In addition to cocktails, they also offer organic and biodynamic wines. Be happy you are in Miami, as this is the only Canyon Ranch property that allows you to drink alcohol on property.

The menu at Canyon Ranch consists of a large number of small plate options (ranging from  $6 – $15; 60 – 205 calories), simple eats (or their a la carte menu), entrees with suggested pairings ($17 – $24; 280 – 490 calories) and desserts. Although the portions sizes tend to be small (5 oz for proteins), you do have the option of doubling your protein.

We started off with an appetizer of Stuffed Poblano Peppers with Shrimp and Goat Cheese ($6). The portion was small, but the flavor was extraordinary. The spiciness of the pepper combined with the creaminess of the goat cheese and the citris flavors of the shrimp combined well making this our favorite dish of the evening, though I’m a huge fan of goat cheese so that’s easy to win me over.

The menu is well-rounded with many seafood, fish and meat dishes available.  We opted for the Sustainably Caught Chilean Sea Bass ($24) and the Austalian Lamb Chops ($24). The Chilean Sea Bass was served in a spicy pineapple broth and cool Key Lime cucumber. It came with some sweet potatoes. The fish was served perfectly. It was simple, yet flavorful and the fresh ingredients came through. Though, the accompaniments were lacking on flavor and texture. The second dish we tried was the Austalian Lamb Chops since our server recommended it. He was right on and the meat was done to perfection, though a little small. The fruit relish added a welcome sweetness to the dish. Once again, the accompaniment of roasted plaintains with their chewy and tough texture remained on the plate.

We skipped dessert so I’m not sure how they are, but I have heard their chocolate chip cookies are not to be missed.  I was happy with the outcome of my dinner there, fresh flavors, wide range of menu selections, comfortable environment and a knowledgeable staff. You aren’t going to go to Canyon Ranch Grill for a plateful of fried food, but rather for mindful eating. If you are still trying to gather what exactly healthy eating is and have a horrible time deciding what to order on a menu, the chefs offer classes to guide you through those tough times for both kids and adults alike.

Canyon Ranch Grill is located at 6801 Collins Ave in Miami Beach. (305) 514-7474

Photo Credit: Top photo courtesy of Canyon Ranch, bottom from personal collection (Oh yeah, and I had to sneak my iphone out to take photos as they are not allowed in public areas at the resort.)