Master Critic Review
Salty Flame
7.9
VE Hospitality Group—15 years in Brickell—opened this Asian-fusion steakhouse in 2024 with a hook: you sear your own wagyu on a blazing hot stone tableside, which is genuinely fun once and gimmicky twice. The lomo saltado bowl and Korean fried chicken show the Indonesian-influenced range, and servers like Nia and Joaquin draw consistent praise for guiding first-timers through the experience. Reviews diverge sharply on whether the food matches the sleek, DJ-backed ambiance—some call it superb, others use words like 'mediocre' and 'plain.' The $28 three-course lunch special represents the best value play; dinner pricing runs steep for what can feel like style over substance. Too new to have a track record, so approach as an experience rather than a sure thing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gold Label Wagyu Hot Stone, Lomo Saltado Bowl, Korean Fried Chicken
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Asian-fusion steakhouse where you sear your own wagyu on a blazing hot stone tableside, blending interactive dining with Indonesian-influenced flavors.
Who should go: Adventurous diners seeking interactive steak experiences.
When to visit: Weekday lunch for $28 executive three-course special.
What to order: The Hot Stone Wagyu is the experience—sear thin slices yourself with soy sauce and pickled cucumbers. Korean Fried Chicken to start, and the Lomo Saltado Bowl is the crowd favorite.
Insider tip: Go easy on cook time with the hot stone wagyu—it overcooks quickly. Happy hour (4-7pm daily) has $10 cocktails and $8 small bites.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at venue. Parking lots across the street as backup options.
Dress code: Upscale casual—trendy Brickell steakhouse vibe with crimson and gold decor. Dress to impress but not formal.
Noise level: Lively with DJ on weekends—Friday/Saturday has bumping music and nightlife energy. Weekday lunches and early dinners are quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: Busier Friday-Saturday with DJ and nightlife crowd. Reservations recommended.
Weekday lunch: Calmer atmosphere. Monday visits noted as particularly quiet.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Ample vegetarian options noted by reviewers. Edamame, salads, and Asian-inspired sides available.
Vegan options: Call ahead to confirm—menu not extensively labeled for vegan items.
Gluten-free options: Call ahead to confirm—specific gluten-free items not detailed online.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, with timing - cozy elegance and lively energy create a good date atmosphere. Weekday lunches or early dinners offer quieter, conversation-friendly settings. Avoid Friday/Saturday nights when DJs create a loud nightclub vibe. The stylish decor and outdoor terrace provide romantic options.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Reservations recommended, especially for weekends. Weekday lunches are more flexible for walk-ins. Peak times are Friday/Saturday nights. Book through their reservation system or call (305) 563-8972. Valet parking available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, families dine here - guests regularly celebrate birthdays with children. However, no dedicated kids menu as it's a steakhouse focused on premium cuts and cocktails. Early seatings or outdoor terrace tables work best with kids. Consider weekday visits when the atmosphere is calmer.
Is it good for groups? Yes - excellent for groups with two private dining rooms: the Sapphire Lounge (accommodates 40 guests) and the Reflection Room (accommodates 12 guests). Both feature DJ booth, sound system, projector, and customizable floor plans. Guests report successful parties of 11-14. Call ahead for reservations and deposits.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - wrap-around terrace with outdoor seating. The 8,000 square foot space includes both indoor and outdoor options. Staff will move guests between indoor and outdoor tables on request. Outdoor terrace offers a more relaxed alternative to the main dining room.
Best For
Better for: Asian-fusion steakhouse experience with DJ entertainment—unique concept blending sizzling steaks with Eastern flavors. Great for groups wanting trendy nightlife.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a traditional quiet steakhouse dinner—atmosphere is more lounge/club. Reviews on food quality are mixed.
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 11pm
Friday12pm - 12am
Saturday4pm - 12am
Sunday4pm - 10pm