I was a bit disappointed when visiting Tantra last Saturday. I had been here originally three years ago and remember being in awe of the atmosphere, food, and fresh martinis. Well, they are still doing the fresh flowers in their martinis so I will give them that, but that really the only thing I liked about this place. As I mentioned, we came on a Saturday about 9 PM and we were one of four groups here. We had a group of 11 girls (bachelorette party) and the server was very attentive (in the beginning). I gave an extra star because he gave the bride a couple free shots. The martinis we ordered the "Pure Ecstasy" tasted like cotton candy. Was not a fan. Also was not a fan of the fact that three of their main dishes were unavailable, which was a shame because I really wanted the sea bass. They only had 2 sea bass dishes available - and with the size of our group - we all had to decide who would get that (not fun). The sundried tomato dip they served with bread was delicious - that warrants the other star. By the time we were served bread though we were the ONLY group at the restaurant (around 10 PM) and I want to bet we were not served dinner until closer to 11:15-11:30. IT WAS UNREAL. We did not want to complain but we were starving and the ONLY ONES THERE! Don't get it. I really loved this place the first time I went but don't think it's worth the $$ anymore...
(2)
More B.
I finally made it to Tantra Saturday. The place was 20% full, but the food was inventive and fun.
(4)
Judy C.
A dinner location for my friend's bachelorette party. We came early, so I am not sure how different it is later at night. The decor is elegant. We had a great server who was friendly and accommodating. The drinks there were pretty nice. My friend and I split a fish course, and both of us thought it was delicious. After dinner, we were able to hang out on the lounge part of the place where there were grass inside on the floor and waterfall in the background. We got champagne and strawberries, and I believe those were on-the-house (since we had a party of 10)? For that one night, I must admit that I had a good time at Tantra.
(4)
Nicole A.
I went to Tantra for a friend's birthday dinner on a Monday night. We had reservations so we were seated fairly quickly. The service was fantastic. The waiter was friendly and attentive and helpful! My food was good but a bit pricey. I ended up spending about $120.00 for a plate of salmon and rice and 2 drinks. Yikes! The place is actually really nice. I am just not sure it'd be the first place that would pop into my mind to recommend to any of my out of town friends.
(3)
Chimichanga C.
Great strong drinks.. with edible flowers.....this place makes you wanna do karma sutra when you get home. very diff atmosphere to say the least. I feel like Im in a wierd dream when I went. The food was pretty good. crowd was attractive...the vibe is def different feeling. Most tourist and europeans come here... it's right off espanola way. It's slightly pretenious and the opposite of a laid back place. Theres some wierd net hammock and wierd karma sutra paintings all over the place if you may attention to details.... try it out if you want something out of the ordinary! After I left this place I downloaded the Karma Sutra app on my IPhone!!! LoL!!
(3)
Christina F.
This place is pretty solid for dinner and drinks. I went here on a recommendation that Monday nights are poppin so we opted for a late dinner reservation in order to slide into the afterparty post meal without playing the waiting game with a bouncer outside. Interesting decor. To be honest, I was expecting a more asian buddha-like motif, which is definitely present, although has an interesting mix of cultural tones. You walk onto a turf-like floor around the first bar area which was a little freaky. Not sure what kind of look they are going for there. The dimly lit and dark red colors set a mysterious and cautiously welcoming sexual atmosphere, tantric, if you will. Of course the wait staff fits in quite well as they are all young and hot and willing to serve you.... I digress.. ON to dinner. Eclectic menu. Offering Oysters, crab cakes (probs my fav), scallops, grilled romaine caesar, tuna tataki, and a bone-in prime piece of wagu beef which all wound up happily in my belly !! (And of course the rest of my party enjoyed as well) I really wanted to try the lamb and the salmon but our server really sold us on the steak - boasting of the supreme treatment the cow received, being massaged, and serenaded with classical music just before it was to be cooked to perfection on the bone with the juices of the marrow penetrating the meat just when it reached the perfect temperature. Well played lady ... well played. Needless to say, one cannot end such a luxurious meal without a luxurious dessert. A duo of the tapioca and some kind of chocolate ganache. I am really not quite sure but either way it was a sweet end to a sweet meal. Hats off to the chef for his consistent execution of each course. We were invited to hang out in the main room to have some more cocktails (i was on those "25th hour" martinis all noche) so yea I got a little looose, so whatttttt. Very beautiful people here, of all ages. Music was different, kind of a twist of hip hop beats made into house music. Got me moving. Seems like an older crowd of people the night we went. Nothing wrong with that. Oh except when you have 40 and 50 somethings creeping on the younger ones, whilst getting massages (did i mention there are girls that circulate the club offering back rubs? sketch.) and buying them roses trying to lure them to their table. Its like.. come on guy, you're 50. But I was peepin the young and hungry ready to bite. Its all fun and games until you find out his daughter went to college with you. Tantra .. you've definitely proved your point. You are chic, sexy and tempting, and make a damn good dinner, but I dare not indulge any further !!!!!
(3)
M. D.
I ordered the sea bass and it just melted in my mouth! It was by far the best I've ever had. The service was amazing-they were quick to deliver our food and were attentive to make sure everything was just right at our table. The atmosphere was great and lively with the great music!
(5)
Talisha M.
Monday nights are unbelievable!!! Great dinner & by 1am this place was the place to be on a Monday...yes a Monday! Sooo packed and the music was great house music. I could've lived without the attitudes of the cocktail waitresses...the "special" ones in red dresses. I guess they do bottle service and "entertain" the men who come alone. Not sure what their role was other than getting the bottle, standing there looking bitchy at other girls, & talking to the men with the bottles....it was almost escort like. The grass was an added touch to the great ambiance of this eclectic place! Grab a couch to dance on & save the heels!
(4)
Alina R.
We were here for Miami Spice dinner last Saturday night. We started out at the bar having drinks while waiting for our table. The restaurant was full so we had to wait a bit. The food was In a word: fantastic! I had the Moroccan Mussels to start. A nice and light appetizer. My husband had the love apple (tomato, goat cheese, basil oil, toasted pine nuts). While the love apple is their signature appetizer and it was very good, it is a bit too heavy a starter. Entree was the Grilled King Salmon with Gingered Black Thai Rice, Napa Cabbage & Shitake Stir Fry with sweet bell peppers and a soy sake glaze. I can STILL remember the taste, it was delectable! Dessert was a chef's selection which included a chocolate cake/souffle-type thing, a Hawaiian pineapple sorbet, and vanilla ice cream. Our server was really great. I wish I could remember his name. When our dinner was taking a little too long to come out, he came by and offered us each a complimentary glass of wine, which we definitely appreciated and enjoyed. After dinner, he brought out an "aphrodisiac" shot. The ambiance was lively, with the lights dimmed just the way I like it. After dinner, this place becomes a club/lounge, so if you wanted to stay a while longer but didn't necessarily want to go to another place, this is a good place for that. So, when food, service, and ambiance are all good, that adds up to a 5 star dining experience for me!
(5)
Devon C.
I have always truly enjoyed this restaurant. There was a time when I wasn't working a 9-5 job and would show up every Monday night to eat, drink, and get my groove on. Tantra OYSTERS!!! Yes you guessed it...my absolute fave! It is an absolute must if you are an oyster fan to try :) Service at Tantra is always top notch. From the moment you walk in to second you walk out. The Tantra night life experience is like no other. I have never seen such a well catered event. Everyone is treated like royalty in this place! The entertainment is a sexy house beat with saxophone and drums. If you want a change from all of the hip hop environments ...this is definitely the place for you!! Tantra as been on the beach for years...in fact I think it might even hold the record. Whats the secret? I believe it is consistency. The food is always great, the service amazing, and the music always gets me off my feet. Everything all inn one. You cant beat Tantra on a Monday night :)
(5)
Noelle N.
Tantra is that place we saw over and over again when the Jersey Shore took over South Beach. I never thought I'd actually go. I still probably won't go on a weekend. That said, Monday night at Tantra is fantastic. On Mondays Tantra becomes the best place to go. Great crowd. Louis Dee Velazquez is the DJ and he keeps the great beats going until 4-5am. Beautiful people, good food, great drinks, and pure insanity for a Monday night. The venue does get crowded. So crowded its hard to just stand. Also, the VIP is always full and I think they eventually get tired of trying to separate the people and just let everyone in VIP, fun unless you are in the VIP already trying to avoid the crowd.
(3)
Carla L.
After reading my reviews, someone let me in on a little secret - Monday night is THE night to go.. So we did. Upon arrival I was greeted (as my hubby went to find parking) so effusively by the gentleman at the door (I found out later that this was Sinisa the manager) that I had to turn around to make sure Will and Jada weren't behind me. Nope.. just l'il 'ol me. Same thing inside, and all I can say is that a girl can get used to this! I waited at the bar for the rest of the party to arrive, and guess what? The pretty bartenders treated me the same way.. again, I am unused to this in Miami. I am beginning to really, really feel important! The decor ooooozes of sexy, exotic, sultry, sensuality. Just remember there is grass at the entrance so heels kind of dig in. Once we had a seat we were greeted by Dan, our server for the evening. He treated us like it truly was his pleasure, and was warm, lots of smiles and just sweet as pie. He gave us some recommendations and we decided to go with his experience. I ordered Scallops as an appetizer and the Sea Bass as a main course. By the way the portions are large, I was very surprised at that. The pepper crusted Scallops were nothing short of orgasmic . Really. The Scallops themselves were huge - I had expected the small ones I have had at other restaurants. Nope! These were gargantuan, and had a glaze drizzled over them that was just to die for. Now the Sea Bass.. I am, as you can tell by what I ordered, a seafood freak. They managed to delight me in every way with this dish. The Sea Bass was also generous in portion, served over potatoes, carrots, and spinach. The veggies were fantastic, but the Bass itself was out of this world. I kept on trying to figure out if they had infused it with some butter sauce because it just melted in my mouth. I kept on feeding it to everyone at the table, it was just that good. Presentation of their food is perfect, visually its absolutely gorgeous. The chef knows what she is doing. Now the most sensual and incredibly amazing part of our already amazing dinner.... DESSERT! Dan recommended a dessert wine that was fantastic (sorry, I can't remember the name) and as we couldn't decide on the chocolate cake or the pumpkin pie we had both. I am a pumpkin fanatic and connoisseur so anything with pumpkin must come to mama to be consumed. Oh. My. God. I have never, ever, ever had pumpkin pie this delicious in my LIFE. We had ordered the deserts to share between 4 people and I slowly but surely kept on pulling the plate closer and doing something disturbingly close to snarling at my companions if they even tried getting their spoons near it. Since they were raving about the chocolate cake it wasn't hard to steer them away. Now since we had heard that the Monday night crowd was the crowd to party with, we stayed on to check out the scene. May I begin with a side note though? Tantra has managed to assemble the most beautiful group of bald men in Miami to work there. I think they scour Miami for the most attractive guys who are mysterious, beautiful, and bald. Really, starting with Sinisa and across the board.. girls, keep that in mind when you go. Eye candy! Plus the female employees are stunning as well, the dancers too, so guys - Eye candy for you as well. In all seriousness it is true, plus the Monday night crowd is absolutely gorgeous all around, and very very classy. It is true what they say about Mondays.. It is an upscale, beautiful crowd. The DJ was Louis Dee and there was a guy playing the Timbales with him. The music was really good, and I am uberpicky about that. You can't go wrong here. So: Service 5 Stars Food 5 Stars Ambiance 5 Stars Music 5 Stars Decor 5 Stars .... Handsome bald guys and beautiful girls 7 Stars. Anyone who reads my stuff knows that I rarely gush.. well ... I am GUSHING.
(5)
Gustavo A. L.
Class lives here !!! and Monday nights is definitely the night to come - one thing kept coming to my mind last night while enjoying our wonderful dinner and evening at Tantra ... Crisis ? what Crisis ? Belvidere and Grey Goose was flowing liberally and the bottles of champagne kept coming to the VIP - this is clearly an upscale crowd and it shows everywhere. Our experience began at the bar where we solicited recommendations on what to eat from the beautifully friendly bartenders - they were right on the money everything we ordered based on their recommendation was THAT good ! A couple of drinks later we were escorted to our table and our very attentive waiter had a great deal to do with how much we enjoyed the meal, the way he described the menu made us crave it even more - And it did not disappoint ... see below Let me backtrack a bit to the meal - First - The appetizer - the scallops are simply fantastic ! seared just right and they are bigger and more filling that what they appear to be ... so eat responsibly- The entree - The sea bass - one word WOW !! All the celebrity chefs would be proud of this plate - the presentation is impeccable, the preparation is just right ,it actually looks smaller because of the size of the plate but this is one very generous serving - The Salmon with the black Thai rice is uniquely phenomenal, taste preparation and portion are complete- And finally the Tuna Tartar , I think the best way to be fair to this dish would be to say that you cannot say that have had Tuna Tartar until you've had it at Tantra - it is really really really good ! Dessert - I don't think I can describe it with words and do justice to it - The Pumpkin Pie is excellent, one of the best I have ever tried and living in the Midwest I have tried quite a few - The Chocolate dessert with Peruvian Fruit Ice Cream - We had to order another double scoop of the ice cream, it was something I had never experienced before - it has a brief nut taste to it and the crazy thing is that it doesn't have nuts - Back to the after party - The DJ is Awesome - he has a live drummer that brings the tunes to a whole different level, even the people that are just standing around are at the very least nodding to the music but everyone is moving !! The music is great !! Monday nights in Miami are definitely at Tantra !!
(5)
Danays S.
Had the worst experience of my life - and this is truly no exaggeration by any means. To begin with, the crowd was horrible. Simply to know that the Jersey Shore cast had been there several times (with several fights involed) tells you this is not the place you want to go to - unless you're trying to get into a fight or arrested. My fiance and myself went with two other friends thinking we were going to have a normal night which ended in caos. Long story short, bouncers kicked us out, executed unecessary force for absolutely no reason. JUST STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE! There is just horrible karma left in this establishment.
(1)
Jean P.
We ended our Miami trip here and we had so much fun. Some of the people and things that happened here had us dying. Walking in a little tipsy, the grass and the five inch heels was a little surprise. I had some drinks at the bar, and watched some girl who looked like she was on ANTM marching around like Tyra told her its her last chance. The music was great electronica dance and house with some dude banging on drums to the beat. Luved it. Some of our friends went home because we had an early flight but my friend and I just had to stay.
(4)
Annika H.
If you ever want to have the most romantic evening ever, you must come here. Tantra specializes in "International Aphrodisiac Cuisine" and the don't stop at the food! From the grass floor to the statues straight out of some south east palace, you feel like you are walking into a Maharaja's palace. If you want to feel like you have the place to yourselves, feed your girl some of the amazing fioe gras and watch the effects, go on Sunday there are little rooms and private booths you can easily have privacy. If you are into the "Beautiful People Scene" make a reservation for Monday night, just don't make them too late, when cutie-pie DJ Louis Dee arrives around ten or so, gorgeous girls start dancing on nearby railings and bar tops and it is difficult to maintain a conversation without yelling into each other's ears. This was easily the best Filet Mignon that I have ever had. They cover it in a Cuban coffee reduction AND a burre blanc over truffled mashed potatoes and sauteed spinach. When I lived in South Beach I had it once a week. You could call it an obsession... The prawn appetizer are so huge they look mutant, the lobster rissotto is to die for and everything is covered in beautiful edible flowers! Not to mention the aphrodisiac ingredients...YUM! ...but don't take my word for it JUST GO!
(5)
Sam D.
3 stars because the ambience, decor and service outshone the food. We were able to get a reservation quite easily on monday night for 9:30pm. Strangely, I expected the place to be full, but we were one of 4 customers at the restaurant bar. I later learnt that there was going to be a private party at 11pm and perhaps this was the reason for the low crowd. The decor and the lighting provided a very romantic ambience. I had their main martini (forgot the name) which was excellent. We had a couple of appetizers and both were good but nothing stellar. The Foie Gras was a bit disappointing for me as it did not have the right amount of salt and was overcooked. Did not have the 'melt in your mouth' feel as in good restaurants. It went well with the candied walnuts to give it some level of sweetness, but I'd expect a bit more sweetness from the searing. We also had the vientamese noodle soup. Wihle the soup was pretty good, the shrimp in it was over cooked and rubbery. The best dish was the filet mignon which had a coffe glaze on the side. The mixture was quite heady and good. Overall, a good restaurant, but the quality of the food does not match the ambience and the raving reviews that I've heard and read about.
(3)
Alexander D.
We went to Tantra for a birthday celebration. Very cozy place, first time there. Hands down, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you try the oysters!! They melted in your mouth-I've NEVER had oysters prepared like that. I was able to sample some of the other dishes and I cant wait to go back.
(5)
Kochii M.
One of the best electronic music joints I've been...Dj has his own drum set ? A drumset ? And the sound system is outta the park
(5)
John Y. C.
I remember partying here late nights until wee hours in the morning. I've never had the chance (nor the finances) to ever dine here until recently. It's amazing that this venue is still here for 11 years. That is almost an eternity considering South Beach's restaurant flips. So coming here for dinner actually means arriving before midnight! The lights were a little brighter and I was actually able to see the decor. Definitely a great dinner date place if you're looking for a unique atmosphere. Dinner was fantastic. The Wild Divers Scallops appetizers had intense flavor. Seared around the edges and tender in the middle. They were however, just a tad rubbery. The French Foie Gras was ever so luxurious. The pomegranate reduction balanced the buttery foie gras. Main courses of Wild Sea Bass Aphrodite and Bouillebaisse were exquisite. You only need a subtle sauce to complement a perfectly piece of sea bass, and the lemon caper sauce was perfect. The Bouillebaisse was definitely the star of the night. A LARGE bowl of shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, and sea bass all simmering in a saffron broth. I was very tempted to pick up the bowl and slurp up every last drop! Dessert was not to be had since tummies were extremely content. Note: wine prices are extremely priced here. I'm not sure if they offer a corkage fee, but if they do, I'd suggest doing so. Psst... do not miss the back room. Softly lit by fiber optic stars, climb up to the woven ropes, lie back, and enjoy the view. The sounds and the energy grows as the clock tips past midnight. Party away!
(4)
Yailen L.
Food was very good but service could have been better.
(3)
Marian B.
Went here for dinner and drinks then to chill for hookah after. This is a very sexy place and really lives up to it's name. Loved the decor and all the statues and pictures. The real grass was a cool and different touch. Beautiful venue and gives off a very sexy vibe. The food was good but nothing wowed me in terms of dishes. I know they're all supposed to be seductive, aphrodisiac type food, but it wasn't any different than what I would get at another fine dining establishment. The one downside was the hookah. It was over priced and it didn't seem like they knew what they were doing! The coals sucked and the hookah got harsh pretty quickly.
(4)
Dashama G.
This place is awesome! The ambiance is very seductive, beautiful, reds and dark colored wood. Carved statues and wall art. We got a private belly dance show the night we ate there. Very delicious food. Beautiful cuisine with art and flavor. Makes you want to stay a while. I loved the movie 'Tantra' playing on the TV we could see it from the bar. Very seductive. Over all a great experience, pricey, but I'd def go back. Great date place and later at night it turns into a dance club, if you're into that. It's on Espanola way, too, so that's a great location you can walk to a lot of shops before or after if you're a tourist looking to explore South Beach. It's also right next to a yoga studio, Synergy, which my friend owns. That's a plus :)
(5)
Maria L.
I went here for dinner with my boyfriend -- the start of a romantic evening. The place is a little hard to find as it is nestled in a mostly residential area, but after driving past it once we eventually made it through the doors. They had a valet outside which was great since parking is horribly hard to come by on South Beach. We got there around 9:30 on a Friday night and were seated at the smallest table I have ever sat at in any restaurant. I kept having to play musical plates with everything eventually knocking over my drink as I struggled to get the gigantic bread basket out of the way for our appetizer. However, around us were some nice spacious booths, so make sure you ask for those. The place was fairly crowded and that crowd was super loud... so much for romantic, but I guess that means business is good. I had been meaning to try this place for a long time, and decided to take advantage of Miami Spice. They didn't fork over the menu until I requested it. Kinda silly to participate in Miami Spice if you're not going to embrace it, but alas. Anyway... we started off with drinks. Tantra Kiss (their signature cocktail, which they had a $10 special on) and a rum and coke. Both were enjoyable, albeit not very strong. From the Miami Spice menu I had a salad with a pomegranate dressing, a chicken tikka masala type entree with chickpeas, and we shared a desert of thai donuts. My boyfriend had scallops and a skirt steak. The food was decent, but nothing mind blowing. The dressing on my salad was really good, but there was a random piece of heart of palm sitting on the side of my plate completely unincorporated into the salad (this made me sad). The scallops were really good, and had a nice celery root puree accompanying them (probably the best thing that evening -- which the waiter had recommended). The tikka masala was fairly tasty, but the chicken was pretty dry. The steak was okay too, but not amazing (my boyfriend though they had left it sitting out too long before bringing it to us). The thai donuts were good, but nothing different than you would have gotten at your neighborhood Thai restaurant. The service was average for me (although my boyfriend thought our waiter was majorly slacking). In the end he pulled through by giving us complimentary coffee-type shots to apologize for the table next to us deciding that they needed to talk in a level loud enough for the person working the front to hear them. This was a nice touch especially since it wasn't really the restaurants fault that the party next to us were obnoxious as a room full of sick babies. Anyway, the experience was decent but not worth the price (even with the Miami Spice discount). I can't say anything was truly wrong, but nothing blew my mind and if I am going to fork over my hard earned money I want my mind blow.
(3)
Olga K.
Had been hearing about Tantra for years and decided to go with some friends. The experience was so disappointing. First of all the soup. I ordered the pumpkin soup which was served 45 min later and cold. Also was too sweet. After another 45 min the fillet mignon arrived which tasted like salmon. They obviously grilled the fish and meat on the same part of the grill. Was awful. In the end the creme brule which had no shell on top. Was just a soft concoction of some sort. Extremely overpriced! Extremely disappointing! Something positive about the place? I guess the middle eastern look.. but that would be it!
Tantra is so bad that it makes me want to go back and give my other 1 star reviews 2 stars. The worst dinner experience of my life happened on a Saturday night at this place. The drinks are good, but only because fruit juice tastes good. $15 for juice? No, thanks. Oh, and I was brought the wrong drink first. The food here sucks. I was at a table with over 15 people and not a single person enjoyed their food. I ordered the vegan platter. For about $30 I got a tamale (the only thing I ate), 3 COLD spears of asparagus, a piece of charcoal-flavored tofu (and I thought it was impossible to screw up tofu), and a vegetable stir fry which was just some red and green bell peppers. It sounds like a lot of food, but it wasn't, and I'm not a big eater. I tried the shrimp and scallop appetizer and it was just...no. Honestly, I've had better shrimp at Chili's. My date had the fillet mignon for over $40. It came with 2 home fries, and no, I'm not kidding. The steak was small enough to eat in 4 bites. FOUR BITES!!! I really don't understand why anyone would want to eat dinner here. I read previous reviews on Yelp before heading out that night and thought, "It can't possibly be as bad as some people say it is." It's worse. The waitress was really rude and slow, too. The only good thing about the place is the decor, but when I go out to eat I just want food that tastes good...not food that tastes like it was prepared by a 6 year old child.
(1)
Ajay G.
Gender Discrimination at Tantra First Issue: I went to Tantra on Monday night with 7 females (I am male) for the nightclub. The doorperson said it would be $10 for each female and $20 for me. One of the females and I argued that I should be able to pay the same $10 entry fee as everyone else in my party, and the doorman's reaction was: "Oh yea? You want to argue over $10? How about we make it $20 for everyone?" At that point, we stepped away to decide what to do. Since we were in town for only that night, we decided to bite the bullet and comply. We went back to the doorman, and without saying anything, he did then agree to lower my cover to $10. A nice gesture, but when I look back, his outright rudeness and gender discrimination is what comes to mind first. Second Issue: Once inside, there are two main rooms. We hung for a few minutes in the first room, the room that the grass entryway leads to, and a few of the females walked into an area in the middle of that room. I followed behind, but eventually a large, 6'6" bouncer inserted himself between me and the area that he had just let my 3 female friends into. I asked if he would please let me past, since he just let the 3 females I was with in. His response was "They must not be with you." The four of us were of the same ethnic background (Asian Indian), so it was obvious to him that I wasn't lying. I waited right there, hoping he would eventually let me in. 10 or 15 others came by, and he let them right in. I felt like a dope being the only one standing there that he wouldn't let in, so after 5 minutes of waiting, I surrendered and walked into the second room and joined my other 4 female friends. I'm not sure whether the second issue was gender, race, height (I'm only 5'7"), or some other form of discrimination, but regardless, I will never return to Tantra, and I hope anyone that reads this will do the same.
(1)
Doris L.
Tantra - in Sanskrit it means, "weave," denoting continuity. Also - Sting's secret to keeping his wife happy. Also -- a little Miami Beach restaurant and lounge fusing traditional Indian foods and spices with western appeal. The website defines it as "...a 'software of love' that makes use of the senses in the pursuit of spiritual liberation." Hmmm.... what's Sanskrit for, "me likee.." These days, it's hard enough to justify a pricey dinner out, not to mention remain a hard core hedonist. But a Prix Fixe menu and a little Kama Sutra movie over the bar for only $36-- oh yes - justify my love! Here's one retro Sting fan's take on the prix fixe lickin and slurpin: To start, I had the Indian pumpkin soup - rich and spicy, swirled with a little mascarpone cheese... nuf said. All Chakras properly aligned. My friend chose the Diver scallops and shrimp - with a mashed potato foie gras sumthin', sumthin'. I was lucky enough to grab a taste before it was all gone (I believe a record was set for that.) It was gooood-- we-both became one with the crustaceans. My main course -Gnocchi, in an oxtail reduction and some Parmesan. How fun is it to just SAY, "gnocchi." (Try it right now.) Am I right? Well, it's even better to taste them at Tantra. They were light as a feather-- and the oxtail - rich and flavorful. My pally had the yellowtail snapper, which was beautifully presented in a hammock of banana leaves and some veggies and a little sticky rice on the side. Not quite aphrodisiac-sicle(?) but very good; wouldn't kick that yellowtail off my plate! Alas, the desserts didn't rock our world. How would you put it at Tantra? Ah yes - no happy ending. The Creme Brulee had barely any flavor. But, I must say the fresh fruit sorbet with chunks of rasberry and black cherry kind of made up for it. I'm sure there are much better desserts on the regular menu - and more decadent treats all around. But, the prix fixe was not a bad show, at all. (BTW- the menu stated they were extending the prix fixe through March, I think--after Miami Spice ends.) The food satisfied- and then there were the drinks... What's Sanskrit for - are you freakin' kidding me?" I asked for a second pour after I first tasted my Cosmic sumthin or other, asking for "more Kettle in my Kettle One." Second try was better - but not $15 better. I didn't expect a lounge priced cocktail at dinner. The edible flower in the drink just wasn't worth it. I guess hedonism ultimately does come at a price. (That door cover -which I didn't pay or know about sounds like a buzz kill.) Tantra's atmosphere -- a wee bit contrived (yeah- the grass floor when you walk in.), Still, it's creative, Eastern spiritual, -intimate-steamy-sexy-kooky. We came early so we could catch a concert after dinner-- the place was - well, empty. It started to get some action after 9. (It was also "cold" for Florida, so no one was out -- wimps!) In any event, I would recommend making it a late dinner here to get the full effect of the funky vibe that is definitely likely with lots of warm bodies around. There is a great little room in the front that would be perfect for a celebration with a happy crowd. I can totally see myself dancing around to the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack in this place - even if they weren't playing it.! Tantra is a good place to go with someone from out of town who is begging for something stereotypically, "funky." It's also a legitimately funky place for locals begging for a little sexy party and some tasty Eastern-inspired hook ups - I mean, dishes - I mean - well, you know. BTW-- the Sanskrit transliteration of "Me Likee" = tad ahaM bahu icchaami. aayuSkaama (peace out.)
I am from a big city. I like martinis. I like girlie martinis with juice in em. I don't pay $15 for juice. Even if it comes with a flower. BLECH. This place is kitschy, some interesting decorating going on. But seriously? These prices only belong in a super-duper nice place where you can get all dolled up. I don't wear jeans and pay $45 for an entree. Puh-lease. Sure they have grass on the interior. But I could pack a killer picnic for $10 and eat on the beach 3 blocks away. Not coming back. 2 drinks with a $38 bill and 18% gratuity automatically included is really inconceivable to me. BLECH twice.
(2)
Mika G.
I came here with a coworker last year. She's been here before and wanted me to try it. As the others stated... the front of the establishment was lined with grass... yes on the inside. (watch your heels) We were seated in a booth in the back. I looked around the place. We were there early so it wasn't too crowded. The room was dimly lit and I was admiring the decor all around me. The Indian people are very sensual people... hmmm kamasutra? lol Anyway, we ordered so much food for just 2 people. I had a caesar salad and tom yum Thai lobster soup to start with. I believe I had a fish dish... the grouper possibly. I was beyond stuffed. The meal was delicious. Our company is sending us back to Miami again this year. I don't know if we'll be back here again. I like going to different places so maybe not. Our stay is short and there's so many restaurants to try!
(4)
cody c.
16 dollars for a f&@king corona?!?! I feel more raped than tantric. Also the sound system is waaaaaaaack. Mid level jbls in a place where they probably dropped 6 or 7 figures on the decor? worthless. Maybe they should take all that corona money and buy a system that doesnt sound like a budgeted wedding. I'd give this place negative16 stars if it were an option
(1)
Nate P.
Ambiance= 10 Staff= 10 Food= 10 Service= 10 I am from Newport Beach, CA and I am picky when it come to fresh fish. The Ahi Tuna was fresh and soooood good. Overall, had a great time and would highly recommend this place not only for dinner but also the music/party they have going which starts around 11pm.... Thanks Again Nate P.
(5)
Stephanie W.
Not at all impressed. When the cab pulled up, I thought I was in the wrong place. It looked like a dive. Inside, the decor was nice. We were there for a special event. 99% of the people there were women. Yet they had two men guarding the men's restroom so women couldn't use them. The line to the women's room was at least 15 deep! A fight almost broke out because one woman thought another woman cut the line. I've been to other events like this and other places have allowed women to use both bathrooms to alleviate the line. And don't bring up drink prices! You better pre-game before coming here! $18 for a tiny drink! We left sober and broke. I get that we're in South Beach, but for that price at least make it a regular size drink.
(1)
Idalia D.
Was attending an Aqua girl event! I am guessing this restaurant is a club at night its way too small and the bathrooms are not enough for so many people! Not to mention I was charged $35 for 2 micro size water down tequila shots!!! I was shocked at how expensive their drinks were! I felt like the bartender likes catching us off guard with waiting till we drank out shots to then drop the $35! I for sure would have given the shots back!!
(1)
Vanessa M.
Came here the 1st week of August 2015. I was looking for a hip-hop lounge to hang out at during my visit to South Beach. This place gets 4 stars for the music and the strong drinks. The crowd was cool. They were dressed a little more casual than I expected (compared to the photos that I's seen in IG). We got there around 1am and it wasn't even half full. My boyfriend and I had just came from Liv and had been drinking all night so that didn't really matter to us. If you like trap music this is the Sunday lounge for you lol
(4)
Pauline R.
This place used to be live so I hear from my husband but my experience there wasn't so great. We went on vacation and decided to check this place out because dream and all of the other clubs were full and it was just the two of us... we normally go with a few others. Anyway we went and they played music that wasn't to our taste... the drinks were meh... 18 for a plastic 8oz If I remember right... service sucked.. the bartender was rude.
(2)
Corina B.
I went here for Valentine's Day with my hubby and I can say it was an OK experience. As most said, the ambiance is sexy. They even had a karma sutra movie showing. The food and drinks were OK, but a lil pricey. The service was average. Did go to party so I didn't get to experience that. Would I go back?? Umm..I would go back if I had a reason.
(3)
Jackie D.
Food is ok, but the place is neat, it has a lawn inside,cool. The martinis are top notch, mmm Tantric Kiss. Overall I feel this is a one time type of place. My fish just wasn't that great....
(2)
Tammie P.
The concierge at the Gansevoort South recommended this restaurant to my sisters and me last summer. I was taken aback by the grass inside the bar area, the waterfall, and starlit ceiling. It made me feel like I was outside! The main dining room was nice with lots of cushions and what looked like art work replicas from Southeast Asia. We were escorted to the dining room in the back with very eclectic decor. One table was inside a very large fireplace, which was odd. I would definitely feel claustrophobic in there! I don't remember the entrees much, but I do remember that we ordered the French Kiss and the Tom Yum lobster soup. The French Kiss was good and refreshing, but I remember being very disappointed by the lobster. The service was slow, but overall, it was an interesting dining experience.
(3)
Mel R.
so I wanted to change it up this weekend and check out a new place to dance some spanish music. when you first walk in there is a grass entrance (yes inside there is grass). I didnt trip but my girl did, not funny though. service was ok, but some bartenders had a snotty attitude. the music started at about midnight with a couple of salsas...i was really into it but then they started playing hip hop. very bad mix. this is a place to go with a group, which I did and I had a good time. the only part that i dint like there was more hip hop music then latin music. why cant i find a good latin place on a saturday night that doesnt mix it up so much. over all i had a nice time but i will not be going back anytime soon.
(3)
Karen L.
3.5 stars overall. I really love the ambiance of this place. If you saw it from the outside you would probably never would have walked in. It looks like some run down old building with a roped entrance like a strip club. Once you walk inside the lobby floor is lined with actual grass. I thought this was creative and different. It has an oriental theme inside, dimly light, and very spacious. When we went for dinner it wasn't crowded at all. They have lots of seating and a full bar with TV screens displaying foreign films. I'd probably give the most stars for the drinks and the food presentation. We all ordered something different and sampled everything. The food was pretty good, aside from being a bit pricey. I had the lamb which was seasoned well and cooked perfectly. I came here once, but if I'll definitely give it another chance if I'm ever in the area again.
(4)
Candice M.
This restaurant, from the moment you walk in, it keeps you in touch with all your senses :) The service is great.. They are very welcoming and knowledgable of their job.. The food is amazing!! They have food from all around the world. So whatever you're craving, they have it! There is so much to choose from! The presentation of the food takes regular fine dining to a whole different level! If you are there to eat and dance, I suggest you come on Mondays.. Monday is the BEST night! The music is great, especially if you're into house music, this is the place to be! But if you are just looking for a relaxing dinner, definitely come on the other days of the week.. This upscale restaurant is relaxing and will definitely have you coming back :) Pros: great food,music & service :)
(5)
LESLIE C.
My boyfriend and I were in Miami over Labor Day weekend and we went here Friday night to celebrate our 2 year anniversary. I have been here before, about 4 years ago and I loved it and really wanted him to try it, so I knew this would be the perfect place to go. I love that the entrance is grass. There are a couple differnet bars in the restaurant and it is decorated with a lot of budha, dark reds and browns, candle light and a flat screen playing some kind of "sexual" movie. We went during Miami Spice Week so we had the choice of that menu or the regular. I went with the Miami Spice menu and my boyfriend went with the regular. The food is pretty rich and fancy. I had the lobster soup with lemongrass and holy cow, it was spicy and strong. Then I had chicken stuffed with asparagus and cream cheese. And finally some kind of chocolote cake dessert. Everything was good, except the soup was a little much for me...but my boyfriend loved it. Our table had balloons on it b/c I had told them if was for our anniversary when I made the reservation. And the dessert had a sparkler in in when it was brought to the table. Our waiter was awesome...he was very friendly and well informed. This restaurant is very seductive and still romantic. Perfect for a night out with the girls, couples or for a date. The food is very pricy and so are the drinks but it is still a nice change from all the other restaurants out there. I believe this place turns into a club also, on certain nights of the week. Havent been there for that but heard its fun!
(4)
Tori W.
want some major fist pumping!??! come here to get your pre-smush on..no grenades promize roomy bathroom ;)
(4)
Jennifer N.
Been by this restaurant many times before but never decided on eating here. Always figured it was an overhyped restaurant known for the scene rather than the food. I only ventured into this place after being solicited by my gal pals to join them for a Bachelorette dinner a few weeks ago. Fortunately the Miami Spice menu has already kicked in so we had the chance to try this place without hurting our wallets too much. Indeed as you walk into the restaurant, it is oozes a SoBe vibe... Grass ground to greet you, seductive lighting and music, and sexy clientele to boot. My friends and I joked that this certainly would not be a good place for a guy to take a girl on a first date unless prior intentions were already made clear. Otherwise, it would feel a little disconcerting especially when the movie Kama Sutra is playing in full view over the bar. :oP My friends and I strictly chose off of the Miami Spice menu. I ordered the Thai Shrimp Cakes for starters, then the Filet wrapped in Berkshire Bacon, and dessert was a medley of Creme Brulee, Chocolate Cake, and Sorbets (which was shared at the table). The Shrimp Cakes were pretty tasty, flavored well, and not dry or too cakey. The Filet was cooked to my preference and was very moist. As for the desserts, the Creme Brulee and the Passion Fruit Sorbet was really well done. The Chocolate Cake was subpar, gummy and dry. Taking into account the service with the attitude and the occasional misses on the menu, this restaurant rates 3 stars.
(3)
Sarah K.
These reviews are unfortunate. I've been here at least 10 times for dinner and numerous other times for drinks/parties. I love Tantra. Very dark and sexy; one of the hottest, most romantic spots in SoBe. Edible flowers in every drink, hookah pipes, grass floor, waterfalls. Portions are small but food is rich and very filling (almost too filling for Miami). Great vegetarian option too. This was my choice space for several birthdays in a row. My fifteen (or 2-3) minutes of fame: When the Travel Channel filmed this place a few years ago, they invited us up to the VIP area (which is a net hung from the ceiling) and interviewed us about the restaurant. I waited forever for that to air!
(5)
Jessica C.
Sexy and Sultry Decor and great theme but food was not tasting as good as the place looked. I ordered sea bass and it was overcooked. The lobster bisque was not lobster bisque; instead, a spin on Tum Yum Soup with barely any lobster. My friend had the chicken and it was surprisingly good with the sauces it came with. Nice place, maybe I'll come back to party on Mondays but probably won't come back to dine here.
(3)
Liya E.
When our sources in South Beach nightlife (cab drivers) told us about this place, they painted the picture of a club where one can DANCE. Except, to our surprise, this was actually a restaurant and there was no dance floor. What made this factor even more sad was that the music was absolutely amazing and you just could not help but dance. The DJ on a Monday night was one of the best I've heard. The makeshift dance floor was the area in front of the bar where the constant traffic makes you feel like you are in a subway in rush-hour. However, after a few drinks we didn't mind the crowds too much and found a nice spot in the corner with the minimized shoving. My grey goose on the rocks was $12, which is actually less than some other places. And I didn't have to wait forever to get the bartenders to take my order.
(3)
Yendi V.
In its hey day Tantra was the place to spot Madonna having dinner with Ingrid Caseres or some large athlete sitting at a table with a bunch of slender beauties look terribly uncomfortable in their hardly there clothing. Point is, I was definitely under age when I was there during that time and had a FABULOUS White Chocolate Martini. It was summer in Miami and traditions take us on the beach as we bar hop from place to place. I told Snoopy she had to try the White Chocolate Martini from this place. Tantra has its industry night on Mondays and it might have been the only place where everyone inside was very ridiculously good looking. The sexy house music had me dancing the entire time we were there well except when the waiters would walk through the dance floor with trays of food (yuck). The white chocolate martini was carelessly prepared and served in a plastic martini cup. The chick made it and it looked like a watered down piña colada, ew. The decor is wonderful thanks to the skillfully adorned walls. Wooden statues of Buddha everywhere and the lighting was dim. Not bad! #Yelp
(3)
E T.
OK, so we went to this place with a group of about 8 people (which was our first mistake) This restaurant is really geared towards the couples as most, if not all the tables have mesh skirt things hanging from the ceilings to create a 360 degree privacy wall within your own table. This would normally be ok, if let's say I had my wife with me, however being with a group of people that you really don't know (nor to care to know) that well. In any case, the food was very unique, and certainly spiked my interest. We rang up a $1,400 bill, which for that many people was pretty good - however this is how we like to roll in most cases.
(4)
Michelle S.
I know there are very mixed reviews, but I can only review for my experience, which was really GREAT! We were the first to arrive in our party, it was early on a Friday. We were surprising a bday lady who didn't know we would be there. The hostess was so sweet and asked if we would like her to bring some balloons. I thought, great, the bday girl will love it, and she did. It was a nice thoughtful touch and she really went the extra step to make the night special for my friend. Service was outstanding, even though there were not many people dining there that evening. The server advised us that Saturday and Monday are their happening nights. We were just there to eat and drink, so I enjoyed the privacy and extra special attention we got. I had a nice glass of red wine and the salmon dish. Cooked perfectly and the sides were a nice compliment to the dish. Everyone at my table enjoyed their meal, including my husband that got the HUGE bone it rib eye, looked like dinner for Fred Flinstone...LOL. It is an expensive place to eat/drink, but the food and service were both great. We did not get desert, nothing really appealed to us, which is where they lost a star from me, maybe next time there will be a better desert selection.
(4)
Joe D.
This is a cool unique place. The reviews aren't that great but I thought it was relatively good. It's interesting, has several beautiful eastern european servers, eclectic art and decor. The food was good. I had the filet medium, which was very good. As a group, we ordered a seafood and raw bar type of group app. Good stuff, everything in the ocean was there. Wine, martinis, and so on. Good times.
(4)
Adelina R.
I expected more. Food was overpriced, not that great, and I left hungry. :-( The grass floor was cool, but not for wearing my stilettos that night. Not sexxy when you're walking on your toes in heels...
(2)
Martin O.
I dined here one Halloween when Lincoln Road was just starting to get crazy. This is one of the fancier restaurants on Lincoln Road and the service is top notch. I thought the food was very good, but it's more of night club than a restaurant. It's located on Lincoln Road near Washington, not close to most of Linconl Road restaurants. For parking, try the Lincoln Road lot by the convention center.
(4)
David M.
This place is a joke and you're probably seeing a pattern with all these other reviews. Overpriced. Underwhelming food. Less than stellar service. All of which is available at top dollar. Never going here again.
(1)
Christine P.
This has got to be one of my worst restaurants experiences in the US. -When we walked in, no one was there to greet us. When we went to find the host, we stood in the middle of the hall for 10 minutes before someone sat us down, even though the place was half empty. No waiter or host even said hello until 6 minutes later. -Even though we had a reservation, we had to wait at the bar and they told us we could sit in the area that is completely empty or wait. We opted to wait for a booth. -The food is complete crap. The salad was too sweet, probably one of the worst salads ever. Not only that, but the "heirloom tomatoes" in the salad were not even visible. We had to ask the waiter where the tomatoes were. The risotto I had was inedible, mushrooms crunchy and not made well. I can't believe they called this risotto. The dessert was disgusting. I've never had molten chocolate cake like this. I can't believe they even call this molten chocolate cake. It was like a dry brownie with very artificial strawberry ice cream, and it almost made me feel sick. -Service was the worst. Our waitress was incredibly slow. Even though we ordered earlier than the table next to us, they were served more promptly and quickly. I also had water dripping over me from the A/C above me. We told the waitress, they did nothing except feel the drip. Wow, that's really helpful, thanks for feeling the drip and then doing nothing about it. -The atmosphere is too weird. I don't know about you, but I don't want to eat dinner with some weird rated X scene in the background. This place is not good for non couples. -Lastly, they included tip automatically into the bill even though we were only a group of 4. If I had my way, I would not have given anything close to the 18% automatic tip. All together, I paid $70 for my entree, salad and dessert. This is the worst ROI I have ever had on any eating experience if you can call this place a restaurant. For the sake of god, don't go here, don't waste your time.
(1)
Roshani P.
Excellent Food, Excellent Ambiance, Excellent Service....just a long wait until we were seated (we even had reservations!). Would definitely go back again!
(4)
Ahmad R.
WOWWW... This place was on the food network and was listed as this cool establishment in south beach.. i could not have been more disappointed On one of my recent trips to south beach (Trust me, the key to life is always having an upcoming trip to south beach :)) I went to check out this place. I was feeling particularly foodie so i asked to speak to the chef. We looked at the menu and nothing was too enticing so i asked if she would create a tasting menu. Sure no problem 7 courses and nearly 1000 DOLLARS LATER.. i had a remarkably average meal that was over freaking priced. Their standard menu is closer to 20ish per entree. How in the hell does a tasting menu equal out to nearly 1k?? Now, i will accept responsibility in that did not ask how much they would charge..but goodness.. I live in San Francisco, where there are always 8-10 restaurants that rank in the top 100 worldwide. I could have eaten at ANY OF THEM for less than this mediocre place. I was so floored by this, that i paid the bill and then went to one of south beach's wonderful night clubs to drink away the pain. This meal was the first meal on earth that EVER made me feel good about spending 250 on a bottle of vodka. It was far less over priced than this meal Even the food network can be wrong... DO NOT GO HERE
(1)
Jennifer D.
Went here for some drinks after reading some interesting reviews about this place. Tantra definitely stood up to its highly regarded, stunning decor-- the main room has very romantic dim red lighting, and interesting lamps and unusual faux grass floors when you first walk in. Drinks were well made, and priced pretty much in line with most swanky SoBe bars (~$15 for a martini). If my review stopped there this place would get 5 stars. But service can make a big difference. When we came in, we told the first person we saw (perhaps he was a bus boy) that we were just having drinks, and he said that they weren't very busy so we would sit anywhere. So we sat down, and our waiter came over, and we said we were just having drinks, and he immediately had us move to the bar. We told him what we had been told, and he insisted we move. Not a big deal, really, just inconsistent, which is kind of annoying. Then, at the bar, our bartender was just a bit clueless. My date asked about dessert wines, and she simply had no idea. Someone else working there had to help out. Overall, I'd recommend checking this place out, at least for the decor, and probably on a more happening night than a Tuesday so you get to see more of the scene. Just don't expect great service (and I hear the food is pretty lousy and overpriced, if you read some of the other reviews)
(3)
Javier M.
How many Saturdays did I loved you Tantra? Do you remember how I used to prefer you amongst all your brothers and sisters? Yes. Ours was a sensual relationship; you lured me with your many enclaves and purplish lights. The many seats, nooks, and cushioned inlets hidden by the big curtains. Your food was great, and you were the only one who could whisper to me some verses in Hookah....aaaahhh, yes! You were never fringed, and yet I saw many celebrities in your bosom. I never understood the haystack that you had at the entrance; and many times I almost set you on fire with my cigarette.... even then, you still allowed me to smoke; even then, your lovely waitstaff still gave me many drinks on the house. Yes, ours was an affaire to remember, even when I couldn't bear to see you on Monday's; the day that you betrayed me by becoming "the" venue. But you always returned to nurture me. And thus I rate you good, 4 unlike your brothers and sisters, you never threw a Tantrum.
(4)
Heather L.
By far the worst restaurant experience that I have ever had. Food overrated. Service unforgivable. Prices absolutely ridiculous. Went there over a year ago and I'm still mad that I went there and wasted my money and time.
(1)
Blak B.
I give it a thumbs up for the decor. All except the damn grass floor entrance. Hmmm looking @ it you say it's interesting. But if you are a woman in high heels(most of us are) that's not the sexiest way to get to your table! Lol.. But if you manage not to get your shoe stuck ladies the rest is very pretty. The lobster bisque is delish and the steak is tasty... The menu is supposed to intrigue you being that everything you eat is some type of aphrodisiac.. Well I'm not sure it worked on me but hey I'm a tough Barbie hehe.. Pricey..
(4)
jasmine s.
Food sucked! Atmosphere was interesting but not that interesting.
(3)
Britt M.
I came here four years ago and remember thinking - WOW ! I chose to return on my trip to Miami last month and this time was sorely disappointed by both the service and food. Firstly, our waitress was extremely cold, and borderline rude. Despite many empty seats and booths around us, she refused to change our table, which was shaky, directly under an uncomfortable glaring spotlight, and the smallest in the restaurant. When she realized we wouldn't be shelling out hundreds and hundreds of dollars, she became even more curt, at the end of the meal snatching our napkins away as if to signal we should leave, just as I leaned in for a kiss with my boyfriend. Unfortunately the British accent, sneering at our meal choices, and raised eyebrow didn't help. No one wants to be treated so condescendingly, even if we are young clients. It was the only meal in Miami that made us regret the 18% gratuity Miami automatically adds on to most meals. Nonetheless, we still spent over $200 for two entrees, one appetizer, and three drinks. No dessert. The Cuban coffee sauce on the filet mignon was tasty, but the meat was overcooked. My lamb was also extremely overcooked and tough - and for roughly $50 each, one hopes they can cook meats to the desired degree of doneness. We ordered their "apple" version of the martini, and it tasted like someone poured that cheap Puckers apple alcohol in it - absolutely not worth $15. The only highlight that still remained from my first trip was the ambiance - aphrodisiac-inspired menu, grassy floor, mood lighting, and soft-core porn on a flat screen - i.e. only in Miami. Overall this was the most disappointing meal in Miami. My bf and I have no problem paying a good amount for a good meal, but it should be, in fact, GOOD. I enjoyed the $30 meal of arroz con pollo at Miami's Puerto Sagua infinitely more.
Tantra is such a unique place - there really is nothing like it. Truly a theater for dinner. What I mean by that is that there is always something going on around you, the people watching is GREAT!, the setting is awesome, the grass provides a funky approach when compared to your traditional restaurants and its a fun place! These days a dining experience should be much more than simply getting seated and fed! Tantra has been around for a long time - longevity is a sign of quality. Make an evening out of it and dance the night away after dinner. This place is quintessentially South Beach!
(4)
Wendy N.
What a train wreck. My boyfriend and I have dined all over the world. We went to Tantra for a special dinner when we were in town last year, we asked if a chef's tasting menu would be possible, and it was. The chef even came out to introduce courses (side note - she was on Top Chef). Not only was it overpriced but the food wasn't very good. I don't mind paying hundreds of dollars per person if it is worth it, but it wasn't. The ambiance was nice, we were in a small room removed from all the craziness, but the bottom line is that we paid $800 for food and wine and it was a $50 meal.
(2)
Denise L.
One word: Overrated!!!! (In terms of dinner) I saw this restaurant on Food network, so I was extremely excited to try this place out. It's known for it's sexy food and atmosphere. The food is made with ingredients that are aphrodisiac. It was described to me as an unforgettable, unique dining experience which touches your five senses. Walking into the restaurant, I was not impressed at the decor at all. It has a twist of Asian and Moroccan, but I didn't think it was anything cooler than what I've seen in SF or NYC. As we sat down at our table, our hostess (Who was trying TOO hard to be cute and pretty) offered us water. We asked for still, we got sparkling. As we looked at the menu, NONE of the appetizers looked good at all. Or appetizing to ANY of our senses! There was an aphrodisiac platter, which sounded interesting, but for $40 and all we got were oysters, cavier, foie gras, and a few grape leaves? forget it... So onto the entrees, I had the Lobster Napoleon. It came with 3 layers of chilled lobster meat with thin layers of scalloped potatoes. I thought it was pretty good, but for $40, it better have been darn good. My boyfriend had the ahi tuna and foie gras. It was delicious, but again for $42... better be. For dessert, we had the warm chocolate cake with gelato. Yummy, but nothing special from any other warm chocolate cakes.... except that it was $15... Our waitress was horrible. Granted she warned us it was her first week, but she kept talking and never listening to my questions. That was annoying. While my boyfriend was drinking his sparkling water, the water boy poured tap water in there! For an so-call upscale restaurant like this and for paying these prices, I expected a lot more. Also, cocktails were $15 a drink and they were that great at all. NOT a memorable experience at all. It was such a waste to spend an evening at South beach dining here at Tantra. The only sense it touched was a sense disappointment.
(2)
Frank G.
Great dinning experience. Especially with your spouse. They make sure you use all your sense while enjoying you dinner. The place looks very mysterious from the outside. Yes, as motioned in other reviews. They have St. Augustine Blue Grass as there floor "indoor". I spoke to the manager and he said its high maintenance since it can't be water. They change the grass out every week. The have very nice tables, even for large groups. They have old international films playing on various screens in black and white with some nudity. Great place for a nice romantic dinner.
(4)
Erin E.
We went last year during Miami Spice. Yes the ambiance is lovely, sexy but that quickly dissipated when our 9.30 reservation really meant 10.15 and the bar was out of Jameson (I only got a 1/4 of a glass, at least it was comped!). We believe the 4 of us were seated in the Miami Spice menu room because we were in the first room and the food at Olive Garden was better. Chicken was tough and cold, 3 of the 4 soups were cold and 3 of the 4 chocolate molten lava cakes were far from 'molten'! Oh, and though we should have known by the price but that still doesn't allow a restaurant to pull this off: Chateauneuf du Pape for $35 a bottle and it had gone bad. The fact that a restaurant would do this is horrid and so tacky. Obviously they do not care about their diners. Miami Spice may attract some cheap-o clients like anything else but we take it as an opportunity to try out what we haven't yet. I will forever talk terribly about this place. FOOD = LOWER THAN OLIVE GARDEN SERVICE= DMV IS NICER
(1)
Yen T.
went there to try this so called aphrodisiac cuisine. I was not impressed and it really didn't get me in the mood. The food was average. For the price, you expect way better quality.
(1)
Roll T.
We went here because someone in my group had seen a special about it on TV regarding their aphrodysiac menu. Thus, in fairness, our expectations were of an amazingly kickass place to visit in South Beach. Instead, it turned out to be an ultra-pretentious, overrated piece of crap restaurant where the only two selling points were: 1) the decor and 2) a smoking hot fake blonde waitress. Other than that, the food was unremarkable, the service was pathetic, and the prices were undefendable. There are many wonderful options in South Beach -- this is not one of them...
(2)
Alex p.
Tantra was good (pluses and minuses) Awesome music, good drinks, friendly wait staff. Food wise not to expensive all things considering, appetizers were great ( Tuna tartar a must if you're down there) , main course ( Salmon pinwheel) was good but a bit salty for my taste. Some draw backs: no room to dance at ALL barely able to make way to the door ( to be fair it may have been a transition time between restaurant to lounge, we didn't stick around to see if it got better), got so packed that service took forever (resulted in waitress forgetting one of our drinks), lastly the smoking (I know the No smoking in NY has spoiled me, but thats a big pain in the rear when the place is over packed and full of smoke). All in all a good time!
(4)
Matthew E.
It was our first night in Miami and asked the cab driver for a decent restaurant around the area. He took us to Tantra, which he had been to many times. While we were immediately impressed by the ambiance with the grass and waterfall, we were quickly discouraged by the prices on the menu. We had made the mistake of assuming the cab driver lived a modest lifestyle. We made the decision to stick it out since we were on vacation and most of us had wished we hadn't. The food was nothing exceptional especially for the price of $60 average per person. Everyone's favorite was the truffle mashed potatoes although we would have been happy with just a side of those instead of our meal. Bottom line is that there are other restaurants that are far better priced for a way better meal in the area. Lario's and Nobu both come to mind with Nobu being more on the expensive side. While the restaurant promotes foods that supposedly put you in the mood, the only mood I felt when I left was ripped off.
(2)
Simone G.
Great House music on Monday nights but too small of a place. You'll be spending most of your time avoiding getting stepped on your feet.
(3)
rachel c.
I went here with a date and had a fantastic time. When you walk in, it is grass- real grass on the floor. The interior is dark and all candle or dimly lit. In Miami you can have a fun dinner for 2 here around 7-8 and hear great music with a more upscale crowd. The waitress was hot. For dinner we had the most enomous shrirmp cocktail ever, caesar salad, and the entree was salmon, but seared and rolled up like a coil over wild rice. We did order something else fab, but my memory is poor due to overindulgence of partying for NYE- sorry Tantra mgmt. This place is awesome!!!! I hope to return :)
(5)
Nenette Y.
Funny, I never knew this place was a restaurant... I thought they only served drinks, haha! My friends and I have been here a few times and have always had a good time... yes, there's *grass* on the floor so try to leave your stilettos at home... cool set up, though... we also saw the actor from superman (the TV show) the last time we were there, it was funny to see him drunk and trying to hit on a girl dancing on a table.
(4)
liz r.
Very cool place...to go once. After that, it gets old. I didn't have the pleasure to eat here, but I did stay for the clubbing part. It was full of uptight snobby people and if I want to hang around people like that there are much better places with much better dj's. And there isn't much of a dance floor even if you do like the music.
(2)
scott r.
Not sure you'd really come here for the food since its more like having dinner in a club. The food is absurdly overpriced, not very imaginative and poorly executed. Service wasn't very good but perhaps on par for SoBe. The giant love hammock is pretty cool though.
(1)
Dana C.
This is a pretty funky place to go dancing. They have sod on the ground which is pretty funny to watch when girls get their heels stuck. SMALL dancefloor. The little room with the hammock is cool and if you can get up there - is a nice place to chill.
(3)
Casey Z.
Mediocre food with subpar ingredients sold at a price that would make a Russian oligarch blush especially considering the inferiority of the ingredients. The place is notable for incredibly bad service and the most disrespectful staff I've ever met. The busboy was the sole attentive person. My card was declined 5 times by their POS of course when I went to the ATM to get cash it worked fine and my bank told me it was their POS. by this point I felt completely mistreated by the staff who behaved like I was a criminal and kept me waiting for half an hour and then wouldn't even give me my card back to go to the ATM and instead had the owner walk me over like a prisoner in custody. This is the kind of foolishness that makes people think the Miami restaurant scene is a joke, which it isn't, but this place most certainly is.
(1)
Gabriel D.
I been going here every Monday for about a year and to me it's the most laid back "club" in miami that isn't really a club. Hookah , great food during restaurant hours, real couches, not those stiff uncomfortable ones like at other clubs. It also has a pretty local and tourist crowd and the music is like Space. Love it.
(5)
Christopher P.
This was probably the worst nightclub I have ever been too in my life. The " VIP area" was 80% of the club leaving only a very small area for everyone else. On top of the that bar backs and cocktail waitresses pushing through us to get to the VIP area. Music was good but they had a drummer playing along to tech house which was so pointless and annoying. You want a good club in Miami? One word. Treehouse. That place is heaven, this was hell.
(1)
Lama N.
my bf and I went there on a monday night because we were told that it was one of the best nights to visit. Very nice ambiance. People were classy. However, their dinner menu does not have a lot of variety. We ended up ordering a desert and a drink and our bill was $37 Not bad for south beach prices and the atmosphere of the lounge. Will visit again.
(4)
Luis D.
Probably best restaurant/dance club I've been to in Miami great environment even better food the music is always good Mondays are the days to go. Overall it's one of the best up and coming businesses in Miami
(5)
Louis T.
I moved to Miami recently and have been going to tantra the last two mondays. It's a very small for a "club" but I love it!. The music is awesome, with a really cool tribal feel, live drummer playing along. I saw a comment someone saying it's annoying but I think its great. he also doesn't play 10 songs straight so its not like theres no escaping it if you don't like it. I think they recently opened the back hip-hop room which is great as well. Theres a net hanging on the ceiling and the dancer there goes up on it to perform which I loved. All around I like this club, it's great to get away from the big club scene and chill with some good friends.
(5)
Melanie A.
DO NOT GO HERE**** They let EVERYONE in. We were repeatedly asked for our picture to be taken, to buy roses,etc... How in the world do they expect anyone to have a good time when they are constantly being sold things?! It's insane!!! Also I got my phone stolen here last night Monday the 12th. This is a very sketchy place and I will never return.
(1)
Daniel S.
This restaurant was truly amazing. Everything from the service to the food to the ambiance; a very romantic place. I won't lie, it is pricy, but you get what you pay for. I can't say enough of the service. They truly know what they are doing. And the food!! Oh my God the food. The flavors and texture and aromas holds true to their name. You have to go!
(5)
Alex Z.
I love Tantra on Monday! So much Fun
(5)
LaLa L.
This is a review for the lounge portion on Monday night. It was really weird to walk in with heels and hit a dark room and patch of grass! The music was really nice with a live drummer which really bring energy. The cost for men I think was about $20 which I think is a lot given that most people seemed to be couples. I thought the people for the most part looked nice and were having a good time, but I did get spoken to by some odd folks I could have done without. Really pushy. I think you could do a lot worse for a Monday night and the energy was lively!
(3)
Luke H.
Skip it, unless it is Monday night. Buy dinner on Monday, and save your door fee ($20-50 each). Good food, but very very pricey.
(2)
Sergio F.
According to WikiPedia (and popular folklore) Tantra is an ancient Hindu practice of rituals that may or may not have sexual undertones. If you ask me, they had a spot-on description of a night out clubbing! I came by for a milestone birthday of an old high school friend. Since I arrived WAY early, I had time to observe some of the interesting details of the place. The grass entrance at the beginning (yes, real grass) was an interesting bit and tripped up a couple of ladies in their high heels. Being the gentleman and "Marcus Graham" of Yelp Miami gladly helped out a couple of the ones in our party. The zen waterfall and horizontal ceiling fans above the bar had a hypnotic effecte to the effecte of "driiiinkkkkk, you will driinnnk." but nonetheless were nicve visually. Of course, the erotic art also subliminally enhanced the evening's mood. As the evening went on, the music kicked up from loungey to more urban (reggaeton, hiphop and salsa). It provided the soundtrack for a fun Saturday night. I had three very smooth amarettos on the rocks, reacquainting me with a drink of my younger years when I could truly be considered a Cougar Hunter. I also shared the requisite tequila shot with the birthday girl, and at $13 each the shots were very reasonably priced.) Although the amaretto was good, I will have to admit it was a second choice since my mixed drink of choice is a mojito. I was told they didn't make this drink, yet they had rum and made caipirinhas (a little bitter in my opinion). I suppose they could have swapped out rum for cachaca but anywho. Also docking half a star for the fact they didn't print the value of the automatic tip on your credit card slip and didn't give a detailed bill when you closed your tab. Valet parking was $10 (a steal on the beach) and they were open until 5AM, giving you ample opportunity to carb up afterwards. Rounding it up from 3.5 to 4 stars because of the fun night. I can see this as a regular Saturday night spot too!
(4)
Ms. C.
Hands Down Best restaurant in Miami! Jeff who is the head chief took care of me and my friends. Ambiance was great too. First time in Miami, my sorority sister told me to visit her friend Jeff at Tantra. So I did with myself and my best friend, her brother and her boyfriend and it was the best food we ever tried. Jeff takes time with his dishes so you can taste the exotic sensation in your mouth. Immaculate and delicious flavors! Some of the dishes just melts in your mouth. The Tartar was an ultimate favorite! THANKS JEFF! YOU GUYS ROCK!
(5)
Garrison S.
We stayed with a price-fixed dinner menu with an appetizer, entree, and desert for $56 per person (included gratuity and one drink). If you are going to sway from the regular menu, be prepared to pay $30 (low) to $69 (high) on main entrees. It has a lovely ambiance as it has had for the last 10+ years. IF you can get a price-fixed menu, go for it. Otherwise, save the valet parking ($25) and go somewhere else. The other choice to save the $25 is to park at the garage on Lincoln Road and walk the three short blocks! Hope this helps!
(5)
Sujan P.
This place blows. You enter but then you can't get out except through a long route. Also there's tons of guys giving false advertisements of discounted or free entry til you get to the club then they pretend they don't know the promoter on the street or have ever heard the name of the guy despite the initials on the wristband given to you
(1)
jewel m.
I've been coming to Tantra for years now, and I'm always so impressed at how consistently amazing the food, the entertainment, and service are. My boyfriend and I came her for dinner, drinks, and dancing, and as always, Tantra delivered an amazing time. First of all, the ambience is sensual and decadent, with sexy boudoir-style draperies, rich fabrics, and a gorgeous light show. The entertainment is always great, with everything from live DJ and gorgeous dancers, to live drums, even a trumpet or sometimes a saxophone. Theres always something to watch and the atmosphere is perfect for everything from a romantic dinner or a party with friends. I also appreciate that the crowd is very classy. We were greeted very professionally at the door and shown right to or table. Our table was very comfortable and we had a great view of the rest of the room, so we could watch everything going on. Our waiter was very professional and courteous, attentive, and knowledgeable. He gave us some recommendations and he seemed to have a true knowledge of the food. Service is always key for me, so I was very impressed with the server, the waitresses, and even the bus boys who were always quick to clear our table, freshen up drinks, and even keep our candle pretty. As always, the oysters were some of the best to be found in South Beach. I'm a huge oyster fan so I order them everywhere I go, and the oysters at Tantra are always outrageous. Our Tuna Tartare was also amazing. It was very fresh with huge lumps of tuna and a really great, natural flavor. The Foie Gras (another one of my all-time favorites!) was perfectly cooked and presented so beautifully on the plate it was almost a shame to eat it. On to the main event, the SEA BASS was so amazing I will probably have dreams about it for years. The presentation, as always, was just five stars. Each plate is a work of art and just looking at them come out of the kitchen is a decadent exploration for the eyes. And the FLAVOR! I'm not sure how they manage to make it taste so creamy and rich and natural at the same time. It simply melts off of your fork and into your mouth. I could barely stop talking about how great it was long enough to eat it. (Or was it the other way around?) ;-) My boyfriend had the Filet Mignon, and it came out perfectly cooked to order, so tender he could literally cut it with his fork. Tantra is known for having a great champagne selection, so after we had stuffed ourselves to the gills, we indulged in a bottle of bubbly and settled in to watch the transition from romantic candlelit five-star restaurant to sensual, sexy, pulse-of-South-Beach nightclub. The music, as always, was great. The main room almost magically began to fill up with an endless-seeming stream of sexy, classy people. A great mix of locals and visiting business-types, with a very classy european edge. I know I keep throwing in the word "Classy", but it really is the best description of the crowd here on Mondays. Upscale, refined, and just oozing good taste. The music and ambience are just so amazing that everyone is dancing and having a great time. The cushions on the seats in the VIP come up and all the girls can get up on the seats and dance. The drummer really adds pizzaz to the music, and the DJ, Louis D, is always innovative and entertaining. The dancers were just show-stoppingly sexy, and even the bouncers were big sexy Russian types! This place is just full of eye candy, from the bouncers and bartenders to the dancers and bottle servers. Theres something to tantalize the senses everywhere you look. Literally, this place is a Tantric experience. Basically, if you want an entertaining evening, full of indulgence, sensuality, romance, and one of the hands-down best party atmospheres in SoBe, go to Tantra for dinner and drinks. Two thumbs way up!
Talk about disappointment and wasted money! A couple of friends and I were walking down Collins and a promoter told us about this place and how good it was. We walked three blocks off the strip in the wrong direction. When we get to tantra for the club we ask if there's a lot of people inside and they tell us that there's like 700 people. We pay our cover and walk in only to find a minimum of like 50 people and no one is dancing! I felt scammed! I will never go here ever again! We left immediately and they wouldn't return our money! Not cool
(1)
Almog B.
If I was able to give this place no stars I would. I am never going back to this place again. Period. My girlfriend and a few friends and I went here last night. The place is nice and is decorated well. However, the bartender is a very rude person and is a thief. She charged my friends and I different amounts for the same drink. She would make up prices and we would of course assume she was being honest and we would pay. My friend was paying $14 for a mojito when I was paying $16. Later I found out that she was charging me for gratuity ahead of time and didn't even mention it to me when I tipped her well. I left the place and felt cheated. I asked the bartender for an explanation and she was extremely rude. Do yourselves a favor and never go to this place.
(1)
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Address :1445 Pennsylvania Ave
Miami Beach, FL, 33139
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner, Late Night Parking : Valet, Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Intimate Noise Level : Very Loud Music : DJ Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Mon, Fri, Sat Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Jaclyn W.
I was a bit disappointed when visiting Tantra last Saturday. I had been here originally three years ago and remember being in awe of the atmosphere, food, and fresh martinis. Well, they are still doing the fresh flowers in their martinis so I will give them that, but that really the only thing I liked about this place. As I mentioned, we came on a Saturday about 9 PM and we were one of four groups here. We had a group of 11 girls (bachelorette party) and the server was very attentive (in the beginning). I gave an extra star because he gave the bride a couple free shots. The martinis we ordered the "Pure Ecstasy" tasted like cotton candy. Was not a fan. Also was not a fan of the fact that three of their main dishes were unavailable, which was a shame because I really wanted the sea bass. They only had 2 sea bass dishes available - and with the size of our group - we all had to decide who would get that (not fun). The sundried tomato dip they served with bread was delicious - that warrants the other star. By the time we were served bread though we were the ONLY group at the restaurant (around 10 PM) and I want to bet we were not served dinner until closer to 11:15-11:30. IT WAS UNREAL. We did not want to complain but we were starving and the ONLY ONES THERE! Don't get it. I really loved this place the first time I went but don't think it's worth the $$ anymore...
(2)More B.
I finally made it to Tantra Saturday. The place was 20% full, but the food was inventive and fun.
(4)Judy C.
A dinner location for my friend's bachelorette party. We came early, so I am not sure how different it is later at night. The decor is elegant. We had a great server who was friendly and accommodating. The drinks there were pretty nice. My friend and I split a fish course, and both of us thought it was delicious. After dinner, we were able to hang out on the lounge part of the place where there were grass inside on the floor and waterfall in the background. We got champagne and strawberries, and I believe those were on-the-house (since we had a party of 10)? For that one night, I must admit that I had a good time at Tantra.
(4)Nicole A.
I went to Tantra for a friend's birthday dinner on a Monday night. We had reservations so we were seated fairly quickly. The service was fantastic. The waiter was friendly and attentive and helpful! My food was good but a bit pricey. I ended up spending about $120.00 for a plate of salmon and rice and 2 drinks. Yikes! The place is actually really nice. I am just not sure it'd be the first place that would pop into my mind to recommend to any of my out of town friends.
(3)Chimichanga C.
Great strong drinks.. with edible flowers.....this place makes you wanna do karma sutra when you get home. very diff atmosphere to say the least. I feel like Im in a wierd dream when I went. The food was pretty good. crowd was attractive...the vibe is def different feeling. Most tourist and europeans come here... it's right off espanola way. It's slightly pretenious and the opposite of a laid back place. Theres some wierd net hammock and wierd karma sutra paintings all over the place if you may attention to details.... try it out if you want something out of the ordinary! After I left this place I downloaded the Karma Sutra app on my IPhone!!! LoL!!
(3)Christina F.
This place is pretty solid for dinner and drinks. I went here on a recommendation that Monday nights are poppin so we opted for a late dinner reservation in order to slide into the afterparty post meal without playing the waiting game with a bouncer outside. Interesting decor. To be honest, I was expecting a more asian buddha-like motif, which is definitely present, although has an interesting mix of cultural tones. You walk onto a turf-like floor around the first bar area which was a little freaky. Not sure what kind of look they are going for there. The dimly lit and dark red colors set a mysterious and cautiously welcoming sexual atmosphere, tantric, if you will. Of course the wait staff fits in quite well as they are all young and hot and willing to serve you.... I digress.. ON to dinner. Eclectic menu. Offering Oysters, crab cakes (probs my fav), scallops, grilled romaine caesar, tuna tataki, and a bone-in prime piece of wagu beef which all wound up happily in my belly !! (And of course the rest of my party enjoyed as well) I really wanted to try the lamb and the salmon but our server really sold us on the steak - boasting of the supreme treatment the cow received, being massaged, and serenaded with classical music just before it was to be cooked to perfection on the bone with the juices of the marrow penetrating the meat just when it reached the perfect temperature. Well played lady ... well played. Needless to say, one cannot end such a luxurious meal without a luxurious dessert. A duo of the tapioca and some kind of chocolate ganache. I am really not quite sure but either way it was a sweet end to a sweet meal. Hats off to the chef for his consistent execution of each course. We were invited to hang out in the main room to have some more cocktails (i was on those "25th hour" martinis all noche) so yea I got a little looose, so whatttttt. Very beautiful people here, of all ages. Music was different, kind of a twist of hip hop beats made into house music. Got me moving. Seems like an older crowd of people the night we went. Nothing wrong with that. Oh except when you have 40 and 50 somethings creeping on the younger ones, whilst getting massages (did i mention there are girls that circulate the club offering back rubs? sketch.) and buying them roses trying to lure them to their table. Its like.. come on guy, you're 50. But I was peepin the young and hungry ready to bite. Its all fun and games until you find out his daughter went to college with you. Tantra .. you've definitely proved your point. You are chic, sexy and tempting, and make a damn good dinner, but I dare not indulge any further !!!!!
(3)M. D.
I ordered the sea bass and it just melted in my mouth! It was by far the best I've ever had. The service was amazing-they were quick to deliver our food and were attentive to make sure everything was just right at our table. The atmosphere was great and lively with the great music!
(5)Talisha M.
Monday nights are unbelievable!!! Great dinner & by 1am this place was the place to be on a Monday...yes a Monday! Sooo packed and the music was great house music. I could've lived without the attitudes of the cocktail waitresses...the "special" ones in red dresses. I guess they do bottle service and "entertain" the men who come alone. Not sure what their role was other than getting the bottle, standing there looking bitchy at other girls, & talking to the men with the bottles....it was almost escort like. The grass was an added touch to the great ambiance of this eclectic place! Grab a couch to dance on & save the heels!
(4)Alina R.
We were here for Miami Spice dinner last Saturday night. We started out at the bar having drinks while waiting for our table. The restaurant was full so we had to wait a bit. The food was In a word: fantastic! I had the Moroccan Mussels to start. A nice and light appetizer. My husband had the love apple (tomato, goat cheese, basil oil, toasted pine nuts). While the love apple is their signature appetizer and it was very good, it is a bit too heavy a starter. Entree was the Grilled King Salmon with Gingered Black Thai Rice, Napa Cabbage & Shitake Stir Fry with sweet bell peppers and a soy sake glaze. I can STILL remember the taste, it was delectable! Dessert was a chef's selection which included a chocolate cake/souffle-type thing, a Hawaiian pineapple sorbet, and vanilla ice cream. Our server was really great. I wish I could remember his name. When our dinner was taking a little too long to come out, he came by and offered us each a complimentary glass of wine, which we definitely appreciated and enjoyed. After dinner, he brought out an "aphrodisiac" shot. The ambiance was lively, with the lights dimmed just the way I like it. After dinner, this place becomes a club/lounge, so if you wanted to stay a while longer but didn't necessarily want to go to another place, this is a good place for that. So, when food, service, and ambiance are all good, that adds up to a 5 star dining experience for me!
(5)Devon C.
I have always truly enjoyed this restaurant. There was a time when I wasn't working a 9-5 job and would show up every Monday night to eat, drink, and get my groove on. Tantra OYSTERS!!! Yes you guessed it...my absolute fave! It is an absolute must if you are an oyster fan to try :) Service at Tantra is always top notch. From the moment you walk in to second you walk out. The Tantra night life experience is like no other. I have never seen such a well catered event. Everyone is treated like royalty in this place! The entertainment is a sexy house beat with saxophone and drums. If you want a change from all of the hip hop environments ...this is definitely the place for you!! Tantra as been on the beach for years...in fact I think it might even hold the record. Whats the secret? I believe it is consistency. The food is always great, the service amazing, and the music always gets me off my feet. Everything all inn one. You cant beat Tantra on a Monday night :)
(5)Noelle N.
Tantra is that place we saw over and over again when the Jersey Shore took over South Beach. I never thought I'd actually go. I still probably won't go on a weekend. That said, Monday night at Tantra is fantastic. On Mondays Tantra becomes the best place to go. Great crowd. Louis Dee Velazquez is the DJ and he keeps the great beats going until 4-5am. Beautiful people, good food, great drinks, and pure insanity for a Monday night. The venue does get crowded. So crowded its hard to just stand. Also, the VIP is always full and I think they eventually get tired of trying to separate the people and just let everyone in VIP, fun unless you are in the VIP already trying to avoid the crowd.
(3)Carla L.
After reading my reviews, someone let me in on a little secret - Monday night is THE night to go.. So we did. Upon arrival I was greeted (as my hubby went to find parking) so effusively by the gentleman at the door (I found out later that this was Sinisa the manager) that I had to turn around to make sure Will and Jada weren't behind me. Nope.. just l'il 'ol me. Same thing inside, and all I can say is that a girl can get used to this! I waited at the bar for the rest of the party to arrive, and guess what? The pretty bartenders treated me the same way.. again, I am unused to this in Miami. I am beginning to really, really feel important! The decor ooooozes of sexy, exotic, sultry, sensuality. Just remember there is grass at the entrance so heels kind of dig in. Once we had a seat we were greeted by Dan, our server for the evening. He treated us like it truly was his pleasure, and was warm, lots of smiles and just sweet as pie. He gave us some recommendations and we decided to go with his experience. I ordered Scallops as an appetizer and the Sea Bass as a main course. By the way the portions are large, I was very surprised at that. The pepper crusted Scallops were nothing short of orgasmic . Really. The Scallops themselves were huge - I had expected the small ones I have had at other restaurants. Nope! These were gargantuan, and had a glaze drizzled over them that was just to die for. Now the Sea Bass.. I am, as you can tell by what I ordered, a seafood freak. They managed to delight me in every way with this dish. The Sea Bass was also generous in portion, served over potatoes, carrots, and spinach. The veggies were fantastic, but the Bass itself was out of this world. I kept on trying to figure out if they had infused it with some butter sauce because it just melted in my mouth. I kept on feeding it to everyone at the table, it was just that good. Presentation of their food is perfect, visually its absolutely gorgeous. The chef knows what she is doing. Now the most sensual and incredibly amazing part of our already amazing dinner.... DESSERT! Dan recommended a dessert wine that was fantastic (sorry, I can't remember the name) and as we couldn't decide on the chocolate cake or the pumpkin pie we had both. I am a pumpkin fanatic and connoisseur so anything with pumpkin must come to mama to be consumed. Oh. My. God. I have never, ever, ever had pumpkin pie this delicious in my LIFE. We had ordered the deserts to share between 4 people and I slowly but surely kept on pulling the plate closer and doing something disturbingly close to snarling at my companions if they even tried getting their spoons near it. Since they were raving about the chocolate cake it wasn't hard to steer them away. Now since we had heard that the Monday night crowd was the crowd to party with, we stayed on to check out the scene. May I begin with a side note though? Tantra has managed to assemble the most beautiful group of bald men in Miami to work there. I think they scour Miami for the most attractive guys who are mysterious, beautiful, and bald. Really, starting with Sinisa and across the board.. girls, keep that in mind when you go. Eye candy! Plus the female employees are stunning as well, the dancers too, so guys - Eye candy for you as well. In all seriousness it is true, plus the Monday night crowd is absolutely gorgeous all around, and very very classy. It is true what they say about Mondays.. It is an upscale, beautiful crowd. The DJ was Louis Dee and there was a guy playing the Timbales with him. The music was really good, and I am uberpicky about that. You can't go wrong here. So: Service 5 Stars Food 5 Stars Ambiance 5 Stars Music 5 Stars Decor 5 Stars .... Handsome bald guys and beautiful girls 7 Stars. Anyone who reads my stuff knows that I rarely gush.. well ... I am GUSHING.
(5)Gustavo A. L.
Class lives here !!! and Monday nights is definitely the night to come - one thing kept coming to my mind last night while enjoying our wonderful dinner and evening at Tantra ... Crisis ? what Crisis ? Belvidere and Grey Goose was flowing liberally and the bottles of champagne kept coming to the VIP - this is clearly an upscale crowd and it shows everywhere. Our experience began at the bar where we solicited recommendations on what to eat from the beautifully friendly bartenders - they were right on the money everything we ordered based on their recommendation was THAT good ! A couple of drinks later we were escorted to our table and our very attentive waiter had a great deal to do with how much we enjoyed the meal, the way he described the menu made us crave it even more - And it did not disappoint ... see below Let me backtrack a bit to the meal - First - The appetizer - the scallops are simply fantastic ! seared just right and they are bigger and more filling that what they appear to be ... so eat responsibly- The entree - The sea bass - one word WOW !! All the celebrity chefs would be proud of this plate - the presentation is impeccable, the preparation is just right ,it actually looks smaller because of the size of the plate but this is one very generous serving - The Salmon with the black Thai rice is uniquely phenomenal, taste preparation and portion are complete- And finally the Tuna Tartar , I think the best way to be fair to this dish would be to say that you cannot say that have had Tuna Tartar until you've had it at Tantra - it is really really really good ! Dessert - I don't think I can describe it with words and do justice to it - The Pumpkin Pie is excellent, one of the best I have ever tried and living in the Midwest I have tried quite a few - The Chocolate dessert with Peruvian Fruit Ice Cream - We had to order another double scoop of the ice cream, it was something I had never experienced before - it has a brief nut taste to it and the crazy thing is that it doesn't have nuts - Back to the after party - The DJ is Awesome - he has a live drummer that brings the tunes to a whole different level, even the people that are just standing around are at the very least nodding to the music but everyone is moving !! The music is great !! Monday nights in Miami are definitely at Tantra !!
(5)Danays S.
Had the worst experience of my life - and this is truly no exaggeration by any means. To begin with, the crowd was horrible. Simply to know that the Jersey Shore cast had been there several times (with several fights involed) tells you this is not the place you want to go to - unless you're trying to get into a fight or arrested. My fiance and myself went with two other friends thinking we were going to have a normal night which ended in caos. Long story short, bouncers kicked us out, executed unecessary force for absolutely no reason. JUST STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE! There is just horrible karma left in this establishment.
(1)Jean P.
We ended our Miami trip here and we had so much fun. Some of the people and things that happened here had us dying. Walking in a little tipsy, the grass and the five inch heels was a little surprise. I had some drinks at the bar, and watched some girl who looked like she was on ANTM marching around like Tyra told her its her last chance. The music was great electronica dance and house with some dude banging on drums to the beat. Luved it. Some of our friends went home because we had an early flight but my friend and I just had to stay.
(4)Annika H.
If you ever want to have the most romantic evening ever, you must come here. Tantra specializes in "International Aphrodisiac Cuisine" and the don't stop at the food! From the grass floor to the statues straight out of some south east palace, you feel like you are walking into a Maharaja's palace. If you want to feel like you have the place to yourselves, feed your girl some of the amazing fioe gras and watch the effects, go on Sunday there are little rooms and private booths you can easily have privacy. If you are into the "Beautiful People Scene" make a reservation for Monday night, just don't make them too late, when cutie-pie DJ Louis Dee arrives around ten or so, gorgeous girls start dancing on nearby railings and bar tops and it is difficult to maintain a conversation without yelling into each other's ears. This was easily the best Filet Mignon that I have ever had. They cover it in a Cuban coffee reduction AND a burre blanc over truffled mashed potatoes and sauteed spinach. When I lived in South Beach I had it once a week. You could call it an obsession... The prawn appetizer are so huge they look mutant, the lobster rissotto is to die for and everything is covered in beautiful edible flowers! Not to mention the aphrodisiac ingredients...YUM! ...but don't take my word for it JUST GO!
(5)Sam D.
3 stars because the ambience, decor and service outshone the food. We were able to get a reservation quite easily on monday night for 9:30pm. Strangely, I expected the place to be full, but we were one of 4 customers at the restaurant bar. I later learnt that there was going to be a private party at 11pm and perhaps this was the reason for the low crowd. The decor and the lighting provided a very romantic ambience. I had their main martini (forgot the name) which was excellent. We had a couple of appetizers and both were good but nothing stellar. The Foie Gras was a bit disappointing for me as it did not have the right amount of salt and was overcooked. Did not have the 'melt in your mouth' feel as in good restaurants. It went well with the candied walnuts to give it some level of sweetness, but I'd expect a bit more sweetness from the searing. We also had the vientamese noodle soup. Wihle the soup was pretty good, the shrimp in it was over cooked and rubbery. The best dish was the filet mignon which had a coffe glaze on the side. The mixture was quite heady and good. Overall, a good restaurant, but the quality of the food does not match the ambience and the raving reviews that I've heard and read about.
(3)Alexander D.
We went to Tantra for a birthday celebration. Very cozy place, first time there. Hands down, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you try the oysters!! They melted in your mouth-I've NEVER had oysters prepared like that. I was able to sample some of the other dishes and I cant wait to go back.
(5)Kochii M.
One of the best electronic music joints I've been...Dj has his own drum set ? A drumset ? And the sound system is outta the park
(5)John Y. C.
I remember partying here late nights until wee hours in the morning. I've never had the chance (nor the finances) to ever dine here until recently. It's amazing that this venue is still here for 11 years. That is almost an eternity considering South Beach's restaurant flips. So coming here for dinner actually means arriving before midnight! The lights were a little brighter and I was actually able to see the decor. Definitely a great dinner date place if you're looking for a unique atmosphere. Dinner was fantastic. The Wild Divers Scallops appetizers had intense flavor. Seared around the edges and tender in the middle. They were however, just a tad rubbery. The French Foie Gras was ever so luxurious. The pomegranate reduction balanced the buttery foie gras. Main courses of Wild Sea Bass Aphrodite and Bouillebaisse were exquisite. You only need a subtle sauce to complement a perfectly piece of sea bass, and the lemon caper sauce was perfect. The Bouillebaisse was definitely the star of the night. A LARGE bowl of shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, and sea bass all simmering in a saffron broth. I was very tempted to pick up the bowl and slurp up every last drop! Dessert was not to be had since tummies were extremely content. Note: wine prices are extremely priced here. I'm not sure if they offer a corkage fee, but if they do, I'd suggest doing so. Psst... do not miss the back room. Softly lit by fiber optic stars, climb up to the woven ropes, lie back, and enjoy the view. The sounds and the energy grows as the clock tips past midnight. Party away!
(4)Yailen L.
Food was very good but service could have been better.
(3)Marian B.
Went here for dinner and drinks then to chill for hookah after. This is a very sexy place and really lives up to it's name. Loved the decor and all the statues and pictures. The real grass was a cool and different touch. Beautiful venue and gives off a very sexy vibe. The food was good but nothing wowed me in terms of dishes. I know they're all supposed to be seductive, aphrodisiac type food, but it wasn't any different than what I would get at another fine dining establishment. The one downside was the hookah. It was over priced and it didn't seem like they knew what they were doing! The coals sucked and the hookah got harsh pretty quickly.
(4)Dashama G.
This place is awesome! The ambiance is very seductive, beautiful, reds and dark colored wood. Carved statues and wall art. We got a private belly dance show the night we ate there. Very delicious food. Beautiful cuisine with art and flavor. Makes you want to stay a while. I loved the movie 'Tantra' playing on the TV we could see it from the bar. Very seductive. Over all a great experience, pricey, but I'd def go back. Great date place and later at night it turns into a dance club, if you're into that. It's on Espanola way, too, so that's a great location you can walk to a lot of shops before or after if you're a tourist looking to explore South Beach. It's also right next to a yoga studio, Synergy, which my friend owns. That's a plus :)
(5)Maria L.
I went here for dinner with my boyfriend -- the start of a romantic evening. The place is a little hard to find as it is nestled in a mostly residential area, but after driving past it once we eventually made it through the doors. They had a valet outside which was great since parking is horribly hard to come by on South Beach. We got there around 9:30 on a Friday night and were seated at the smallest table I have ever sat at in any restaurant. I kept having to play musical plates with everything eventually knocking over my drink as I struggled to get the gigantic bread basket out of the way for our appetizer. However, around us were some nice spacious booths, so make sure you ask for those. The place was fairly crowded and that crowd was super loud... so much for romantic, but I guess that means business is good. I had been meaning to try this place for a long time, and decided to take advantage of Miami Spice. They didn't fork over the menu until I requested it. Kinda silly to participate in Miami Spice if you're not going to embrace it, but alas. Anyway... we started off with drinks. Tantra Kiss (their signature cocktail, which they had a $10 special on) and a rum and coke. Both were enjoyable, albeit not very strong. From the Miami Spice menu I had a salad with a pomegranate dressing, a chicken tikka masala type entree with chickpeas, and we shared a desert of thai donuts. My boyfriend had scallops and a skirt steak. The food was decent, but nothing mind blowing. The dressing on my salad was really good, but there was a random piece of heart of palm sitting on the side of my plate completely unincorporated into the salad (this made me sad). The scallops were really good, and had a nice celery root puree accompanying them (probably the best thing that evening -- which the waiter had recommended). The tikka masala was fairly tasty, but the chicken was pretty dry. The steak was okay too, but not amazing (my boyfriend though they had left it sitting out too long before bringing it to us). The thai donuts were good, but nothing different than you would have gotten at your neighborhood Thai restaurant. The service was average for me (although my boyfriend thought our waiter was majorly slacking). In the end he pulled through by giving us complimentary coffee-type shots to apologize for the table next to us deciding that they needed to talk in a level loud enough for the person working the front to hear them. This was a nice touch especially since it wasn't really the restaurants fault that the party next to us were obnoxious as a room full of sick babies. Anyway, the experience was decent but not worth the price (even with the Miami Spice discount). I can't say anything was truly wrong, but nothing blew my mind and if I am going to fork over my hard earned money I want my mind blow.
(3)Olga K.
Had been hearing about Tantra for years and decided to go with some friends. The experience was so disappointing. First of all the soup. I ordered the pumpkin soup which was served 45 min later and cold. Also was too sweet. After another 45 min the fillet mignon arrived which tasted like salmon. They obviously grilled the fish and meat on the same part of the grill. Was awful. In the end the creme brule which had no shell on top. Was just a soft concoction of some sort. Extremely overpriced! Extremely disappointing! Something positive about the place? I guess the middle eastern look.. but that would be it!
(1)Alison T.
I've been meaning to visit Tantra for a few years now, so when my friend and I saw them participating in "I love Miami Spice" (prix fixe menu for $36) we knew it was time to make a reservation and go. Plus, this coincided with a trip to see John Legend in concert at the Jackie Gleason Theatre. Heck, here was a chance to park the car, have dinner and get this - walk - to the concert afterwards. I was looking forward to getting a little tipsy on a few cocktails and then enjoying the soothing sounds of Mr. Legend. Soothing sounds I got, tipsy I didn't - despite my dinner buddy forking out $60 for four cocktails between us. I knew the prix fixe menu was a bargain when the waiter first handed us the regular menu. A quick review revealed that regular priced entrees ran between $30 and $50. Frankly, I never even read the descriptions as we had both already reviewed the prix fixe menu online and knew what we were going to order. When the waiter came back to the table we prompted him for the "I love Miami Spice " menus. Naughty waiter, he should have presented the bargain hunter's menu when we sat down. I interpret the fact that he didn't as a low-ball marketing ploy to have us spend more money! To start, my friend has the Indian pumpkin soup and I went with the Diver scallops and shrimp - with a dollop of what I think tasted like mashed potato, but was described as "foie gras sumthin', sumthin'" by my friend. Regardless, it was good! As I told my dining companion, "Hurry up and get some coz I'm eating it all!" The main courses were just as good. For her, the light-as-a-feather gnocchi with an oxtail ragu topped with parmesan shavings. For me, an elaborately presented snapper fillet in its own bamboo basket and wrapped in banana leaves, accompanied by crispy plantain slices and some sticky rice. Simple but very tasty. Dessert was disappointing, but then again, with many prix fixe menus, I don't expect too much. The crème brule (typical option on a prix fixe menu) was overcooked and well, boring. The better choice and a nice fruity end to the meal was the fresh fruit sorbet - complete with chunks of raspberry and black cherry. Our tummies were comfortably full after eating - requiring no loosening of belts or major sucking-in of protruding stomach. But as for that nice pre-concert buzz we were after - nada! Two cocktails each and we were struggling to even taste vodka. And when the bill arrived and the sticker shock of $15 a pop hit us - we were more than sober. I visit and eat a lot in New York - where I rarely pay more than $12 for my martinis - so I'm more than a little perturbed at being charged $15 for a non-impact drink on Miami Beach. As for Tantra's atmosphere - it's a little hard for me to describe seeing as we were the very first diners of the evening and the place was empty - no vibe emanating from the Buddha statues and ethnic art adorning the walls. I loved the style of the décor - it's right up my alley - but probably isn't everyone's taste. Due to the concert, we arrived for 7:30 p.m. reservations and had our pick of a table. Fellow guests were arriving gradually as we left shortly after 9 p.m. - but it was clearly a quiet night for Miami Beach - when we went back to retrieve our car from valet at 1 a.m. the place was still pretty empty inside, and certainly no takers for the myriad of chairs and sofas on the sidewalk outside. As my dear Yelp'er Doris says, Tantra is a good place to go with someone from out of town who is begging for something stereotypically, "funky." I will go back next year if they're doing the prix fixe menu again with different dishes. And if someone is having a private party there, I'm in. BTW - valet parking is $15 too - and another little annoyance - I think diners' should get a discount.
(3)Nydia M.
Tantra is so bad that it makes me want to go back and give my other 1 star reviews 2 stars. The worst dinner experience of my life happened on a Saturday night at this place. The drinks are good, but only because fruit juice tastes good. $15 for juice? No, thanks. Oh, and I was brought the wrong drink first. The food here sucks. I was at a table with over 15 people and not a single person enjoyed their food. I ordered the vegan platter. For about $30 I got a tamale (the only thing I ate), 3 COLD spears of asparagus, a piece of charcoal-flavored tofu (and I thought it was impossible to screw up tofu), and a vegetable stir fry which was just some red and green bell peppers. It sounds like a lot of food, but it wasn't, and I'm not a big eater. I tried the shrimp and scallop appetizer and it was just...no. Honestly, I've had better shrimp at Chili's. My date had the fillet mignon for over $40. It came with 2 home fries, and no, I'm not kidding. The steak was small enough to eat in 4 bites. FOUR BITES!!! I really don't understand why anyone would want to eat dinner here. I read previous reviews on Yelp before heading out that night and thought, "It can't possibly be as bad as some people say it is." It's worse. The waitress was really rude and slow, too. The only good thing about the place is the decor, but when I go out to eat I just want food that tastes good...not food that tastes like it was prepared by a 6 year old child.
(1)Ajay G.
Gender Discrimination at Tantra First Issue: I went to Tantra on Monday night with 7 females (I am male) for the nightclub. The doorperson said it would be $10 for each female and $20 for me. One of the females and I argued that I should be able to pay the same $10 entry fee as everyone else in my party, and the doorman's reaction was: "Oh yea? You want to argue over $10? How about we make it $20 for everyone?" At that point, we stepped away to decide what to do. Since we were in town for only that night, we decided to bite the bullet and comply. We went back to the doorman, and without saying anything, he did then agree to lower my cover to $10. A nice gesture, but when I look back, his outright rudeness and gender discrimination is what comes to mind first. Second Issue: Once inside, there are two main rooms. We hung for a few minutes in the first room, the room that the grass entryway leads to, and a few of the females walked into an area in the middle of that room. I followed behind, but eventually a large, 6'6" bouncer inserted himself between me and the area that he had just let my 3 female friends into. I asked if he would please let me past, since he just let the 3 females I was with in. His response was "They must not be with you." The four of us were of the same ethnic background (Asian Indian), so it was obvious to him that I wasn't lying. I waited right there, hoping he would eventually let me in. 10 or 15 others came by, and he let them right in. I felt like a dope being the only one standing there that he wouldn't let in, so after 5 minutes of waiting, I surrendered and walked into the second room and joined my other 4 female friends. I'm not sure whether the second issue was gender, race, height (I'm only 5'7"), or some other form of discrimination, but regardless, I will never return to Tantra, and I hope anyone that reads this will do the same.
(1)Doris L.
Tantra - in Sanskrit it means, "weave," denoting continuity. Also - Sting's secret to keeping his wife happy. Also -- a little Miami Beach restaurant and lounge fusing traditional Indian foods and spices with western appeal. The website defines it as "...a 'software of love' that makes use of the senses in the pursuit of spiritual liberation." Hmmm.... what's Sanskrit for, "me likee.." These days, it's hard enough to justify a pricey dinner out, not to mention remain a hard core hedonist. But a Prix Fixe menu and a little Kama Sutra movie over the bar for only $36-- oh yes - justify my love! Here's one retro Sting fan's take on the prix fixe lickin and slurpin: To start, I had the Indian pumpkin soup - rich and spicy, swirled with a little mascarpone cheese... nuf said. All Chakras properly aligned. My friend chose the Diver scallops and shrimp - with a mashed potato foie gras sumthin', sumthin'. I was lucky enough to grab a taste before it was all gone (I believe a record was set for that.) It was gooood-- we-both became one with the crustaceans. My main course -Gnocchi, in an oxtail reduction and some Parmesan. How fun is it to just SAY, "gnocchi." (Try it right now.) Am I right? Well, it's even better to taste them at Tantra. They were light as a feather-- and the oxtail - rich and flavorful. My pally had the yellowtail snapper, which was beautifully presented in a hammock of banana leaves and some veggies and a little sticky rice on the side. Not quite aphrodisiac-sicle(?) but very good; wouldn't kick that yellowtail off my plate! Alas, the desserts didn't rock our world. How would you put it at Tantra? Ah yes - no happy ending. The Creme Brulee had barely any flavor. But, I must say the fresh fruit sorbet with chunks of rasberry and black cherry kind of made up for it. I'm sure there are much better desserts on the regular menu - and more decadent treats all around. But, the prix fixe was not a bad show, at all. (BTW- the menu stated they were extending the prix fixe through March, I think--after Miami Spice ends.) The food satisfied- and then there were the drinks... What's Sanskrit for - are you freakin' kidding me?" I asked for a second pour after I first tasted my Cosmic sumthin or other, asking for "more Kettle in my Kettle One." Second try was better - but not $15 better. I didn't expect a lounge priced cocktail at dinner. The edible flower in the drink just wasn't worth it. I guess hedonism ultimately does come at a price. (That door cover -which I didn't pay or know about sounds like a buzz kill.) Tantra's atmosphere -- a wee bit contrived (yeah- the grass floor when you walk in.), Still, it's creative, Eastern spiritual, -intimate-steamy-sexy-kooky. We came early so we could catch a concert after dinner-- the place was - well, empty. It started to get some action after 9. (It was also "cold" for Florida, so no one was out -- wimps!) In any event, I would recommend making it a late dinner here to get the full effect of the funky vibe that is definitely likely with lots of warm bodies around. There is a great little room in the front that would be perfect for a celebration with a happy crowd. I can totally see myself dancing around to the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack in this place - even if they weren't playing it.! Tantra is a good place to go with someone from out of town who is begging for something stereotypically, "funky." It's also a legitimately funky place for locals begging for a little sexy party and some tasty Eastern-inspired hook ups - I mean, dishes - I mean - well, you know. BTW-- the Sanskrit transliteration of "Me Likee" = tad ahaM bahu icchaami. aayuSkaama (peace out.)
(3)Liza S.
Tantra- "A Sensory Delight" When walking into Tantra the very first thing one will notice is the grass. After all, how often does one feel the earthiness of being outside while inside? Tantra is not one of the new flashy temporary hotspots to hit Miami but an established favorite. With its Middle-eastern décor, this beautiful gem was created around the concept of appealing to all five senses. In following through with that theme, the venue boasts five distinct areas including an intimate private space some tag the "VIP room." This hidden nook is commonly used for corporate and social events as well as after dinner drinks and "Hookah" smoking. The venue has hosted some of the most renowned celebrities and A-listers featured in popular media today. From guests including Jennifer Lopez and Leonardo Di Caprio if Tantra's walls could speak, many interesting stories would be told. Situated in the heart of South Beach the restaurant has served thousands since opening its doors years ago. About a decade later, as all things must be altered to appeal to the market, the concept venue has recently undergone a bit of a facelift. Loyal patrons need not worry; one will still see familiar elements such as the aforementioned grass, dim lighting, and soft lounge music, original artwork gracing the walls, beautiful "hookahs," and Kama Sutra playing on a screen in the main dining room. New additions include new custom barstools at bars, upholstered crushed velvet booths, updated restrooms, plush outdoor seating and updated menu. The menu created by Tantra's newly appointed Chef Jeffrey Beauchamps is a unique blend of some of the original dishes with his signature creations. With such staple favorites as the salmon in a coffee glaze and cocktails such as the "Tantra Kiss," Beauchamps added dishes that truly represent the word "fusion" to be paired with a new cocktail list that includes an array of martinis and after dinner drinks. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Beauchamps is an accomplished culinary professional has been with the restaurant for the last several years working in conjunction with Chef Sandee Birdsong. When the opportunity of being on Bravo's Top Chef came along, Beauchamp's took the reins and added his special Latin flair. Some of the new dishes include: Sea bass Tartare, Lobster Napoleon (which features champagne vinaigrette), and Tuna Tatake sitting on a block of Himalayan sea salt taken from a volcano, Lobster Won Ton soup, and Gnocchi with oxtail. For dessert, a must is the "Tantra Pavlova" a sinful combination of passion fruit, mango and goat cheese. All of the dishes come served with amazing presentation, including garnishes such as fresh orchids and herbs by an ever-so-friendly wait staff. Tantra's general manager, Sinisa Mihajlovic stated it best: "with the state of today's economy even the wealthiest people are looking more closely at every detail from price to presentation and ambiance. We are in a different time than when Tantra first opened. That's why we have to keep it fresh and constantly adding elements such as live entertainment, signature drinks and unique dishes on our menu." Undeniably, Tantra still remains one of the "must-go-to" restaurants in South Florida. Possessing the flare one expects from a Miami venue without pretentiousness, the new and improved Tantra will continue to be a sensory delight. Bon appétit! Tantra is located at: 1445 Pennsylvania Ave. Miami Beach, Fl 33139 305.672.4765. Price ranges: Appetizers between $12 & $57, Entrees between $24 & $97 and Desserts in the teens. Dress code is casual to dressy. Live entertainment on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays and special events. For more info: tantrarestaurant.com .
(4)Jessica O.
I am from a big city. I like martinis. I like girlie martinis with juice in em. I don't pay $15 for juice. Even if it comes with a flower. BLECH. This place is kitschy, some interesting decorating going on. But seriously? These prices only belong in a super-duper nice place where you can get all dolled up. I don't wear jeans and pay $45 for an entree. Puh-lease. Sure they have grass on the interior. But I could pack a killer picnic for $10 and eat on the beach 3 blocks away. Not coming back. 2 drinks with a $38 bill and 18% gratuity automatically included is really inconceivable to me. BLECH twice.
(2)Mika G.
I came here with a coworker last year. She's been here before and wanted me to try it. As the others stated... the front of the establishment was lined with grass... yes on the inside. (watch your heels) We were seated in a booth in the back. I looked around the place. We were there early so it wasn't too crowded. The room was dimly lit and I was admiring the decor all around me. The Indian people are very sensual people... hmmm kamasutra? lol Anyway, we ordered so much food for just 2 people. I had a caesar salad and tom yum Thai lobster soup to start with. I believe I had a fish dish... the grouper possibly. I was beyond stuffed. The meal was delicious. Our company is sending us back to Miami again this year. I don't know if we'll be back here again. I like going to different places so maybe not. Our stay is short and there's so many restaurants to try!
(4)cody c.
16 dollars for a f&@king corona?!?! I feel more raped than tantric. Also the sound system is waaaaaaaack. Mid level jbls in a place where they probably dropped 6 or 7 figures on the decor? worthless. Maybe they should take all that corona money and buy a system that doesnt sound like a budgeted wedding. I'd give this place negative16 stars if it were an option
(1)Nate P.
Ambiance= 10 Staff= 10 Food= 10 Service= 10 I am from Newport Beach, CA and I am picky when it come to fresh fish. The Ahi Tuna was fresh and soooood good. Overall, had a great time and would highly recommend this place not only for dinner but also the music/party they have going which starts around 11pm.... Thanks Again Nate P.
(5)Stephanie W.
Not at all impressed. When the cab pulled up, I thought I was in the wrong place. It looked like a dive. Inside, the decor was nice. We were there for a special event. 99% of the people there were women. Yet they had two men guarding the men's restroom so women couldn't use them. The line to the women's room was at least 15 deep! A fight almost broke out because one woman thought another woman cut the line. I've been to other events like this and other places have allowed women to use both bathrooms to alleviate the line. And don't bring up drink prices! You better pre-game before coming here! $18 for a tiny drink! We left sober and broke. I get that we're in South Beach, but for that price at least make it a regular size drink.
(1)Idalia D.
Was attending an Aqua girl event! I am guessing this restaurant is a club at night its way too small and the bathrooms are not enough for so many people! Not to mention I was charged $35 for 2 micro size water down tequila shots!!! I was shocked at how expensive their drinks were! I felt like the bartender likes catching us off guard with waiting till we drank out shots to then drop the $35! I for sure would have given the shots back!!
(1)Vanessa M.
Came here the 1st week of August 2015. I was looking for a hip-hop lounge to hang out at during my visit to South Beach. This place gets 4 stars for the music and the strong drinks. The crowd was cool. They were dressed a little more casual than I expected (compared to the photos that I's seen in IG). We got there around 1am and it wasn't even half full. My boyfriend and I had just came from Liv and had been drinking all night so that didn't really matter to us. If you like trap music this is the Sunday lounge for you lol
(4)Pauline R.
This place used to be live so I hear from my husband but my experience there wasn't so great. We went on vacation and decided to check this place out because dream and all of the other clubs were full and it was just the two of us... we normally go with a few others. Anyway we went and they played music that wasn't to our taste... the drinks were meh... 18 for a plastic 8oz If I remember right... service sucked.. the bartender was rude.
(2)Corina B.
I went here for Valentine's Day with my hubby and I can say it was an OK experience. As most said, the ambiance is sexy. They even had a karma sutra movie showing. The food and drinks were OK, but a lil pricey. The service was average. Did go to party so I didn't get to experience that. Would I go back?? Umm..I would go back if I had a reason.
(3)Jackie D.
Food is ok, but the place is neat, it has a lawn inside,cool. The martinis are top notch, mmm Tantric Kiss. Overall I feel this is a one time type of place. My fish just wasn't that great....
(2)Tammie P.
The concierge at the Gansevoort South recommended this restaurant to my sisters and me last summer. I was taken aback by the grass inside the bar area, the waterfall, and starlit ceiling. It made me feel like I was outside! The main dining room was nice with lots of cushions and what looked like art work replicas from Southeast Asia. We were escorted to the dining room in the back with very eclectic decor. One table was inside a very large fireplace, which was odd. I would definitely feel claustrophobic in there! I don't remember the entrees much, but I do remember that we ordered the French Kiss and the Tom Yum lobster soup. The French Kiss was good and refreshing, but I remember being very disappointed by the lobster. The service was slow, but overall, it was an interesting dining experience.
(3)Mel R.
so I wanted to change it up this weekend and check out a new place to dance some spanish music. when you first walk in there is a grass entrance (yes inside there is grass). I didnt trip but my girl did, not funny though. service was ok, but some bartenders had a snotty attitude. the music started at about midnight with a couple of salsas...i was really into it but then they started playing hip hop. very bad mix. this is a place to go with a group, which I did and I had a good time. the only part that i dint like there was more hip hop music then latin music. why cant i find a good latin place on a saturday night that doesnt mix it up so much. over all i had a nice time but i will not be going back anytime soon.
(3)Karen L.
3.5 stars overall. I really love the ambiance of this place. If you saw it from the outside you would probably never would have walked in. It looks like some run down old building with a roped entrance like a strip club. Once you walk inside the lobby floor is lined with actual grass. I thought this was creative and different. It has an oriental theme inside, dimly light, and very spacious. When we went for dinner it wasn't crowded at all. They have lots of seating and a full bar with TV screens displaying foreign films. I'd probably give the most stars for the drinks and the food presentation. We all ordered something different and sampled everything. The food was pretty good, aside from being a bit pricey. I had the lamb which was seasoned well and cooked perfectly. I came here once, but if I'll definitely give it another chance if I'm ever in the area again.
(4)Candice M.
This restaurant, from the moment you walk in, it keeps you in touch with all your senses :) The service is great.. They are very welcoming and knowledgable of their job.. The food is amazing!! They have food from all around the world. So whatever you're craving, they have it! There is so much to choose from! The presentation of the food takes regular fine dining to a whole different level! If you are there to eat and dance, I suggest you come on Mondays.. Monday is the BEST night! The music is great, especially if you're into house music, this is the place to be! But if you are just looking for a relaxing dinner, definitely come on the other days of the week.. This upscale restaurant is relaxing and will definitely have you coming back :) Pros: great food,music & service :)
(5)LESLIE C.
My boyfriend and I were in Miami over Labor Day weekend and we went here Friday night to celebrate our 2 year anniversary. I have been here before, about 4 years ago and I loved it and really wanted him to try it, so I knew this would be the perfect place to go. I love that the entrance is grass. There are a couple differnet bars in the restaurant and it is decorated with a lot of budha, dark reds and browns, candle light and a flat screen playing some kind of "sexual" movie. We went during Miami Spice Week so we had the choice of that menu or the regular. I went with the Miami Spice menu and my boyfriend went with the regular. The food is pretty rich and fancy. I had the lobster soup with lemongrass and holy cow, it was spicy and strong. Then I had chicken stuffed with asparagus and cream cheese. And finally some kind of chocolote cake dessert. Everything was good, except the soup was a little much for me...but my boyfriend loved it. Our table had balloons on it b/c I had told them if was for our anniversary when I made the reservation. And the dessert had a sparkler in in when it was brought to the table. Our waiter was awesome...he was very friendly and well informed. This restaurant is very seductive and still romantic. Perfect for a night out with the girls, couples or for a date. The food is very pricy and so are the drinks but it is still a nice change from all the other restaurants out there. I believe this place turns into a club also, on certain nights of the week. Havent been there for that but heard its fun!
(4)Tori W.
want some major fist pumping!??! come here to get your pre-smush on..no grenades promize roomy bathroom ;)
(4)Jennifer N.
Been by this restaurant many times before but never decided on eating here. Always figured it was an overhyped restaurant known for the scene rather than the food. I only ventured into this place after being solicited by my gal pals to join them for a Bachelorette dinner a few weeks ago. Fortunately the Miami Spice menu has already kicked in so we had the chance to try this place without hurting our wallets too much. Indeed as you walk into the restaurant, it is oozes a SoBe vibe... Grass ground to greet you, seductive lighting and music, and sexy clientele to boot. My friends and I joked that this certainly would not be a good place for a guy to take a girl on a first date unless prior intentions were already made clear. Otherwise, it would feel a little disconcerting especially when the movie Kama Sutra is playing in full view over the bar. :oP My friends and I strictly chose off of the Miami Spice menu. I ordered the Thai Shrimp Cakes for starters, then the Filet wrapped in Berkshire Bacon, and dessert was a medley of Creme Brulee, Chocolate Cake, and Sorbets (which was shared at the table). The Shrimp Cakes were pretty tasty, flavored well, and not dry or too cakey. The Filet was cooked to my preference and was very moist. As for the desserts, the Creme Brulee and the Passion Fruit Sorbet was really well done. The Chocolate Cake was subpar, gummy and dry. Taking into account the service with the attitude and the occasional misses on the menu, this restaurant rates 3 stars.
(3)Sarah K.
These reviews are unfortunate. I've been here at least 10 times for dinner and numerous other times for drinks/parties. I love Tantra. Very dark and sexy; one of the hottest, most romantic spots in SoBe. Edible flowers in every drink, hookah pipes, grass floor, waterfalls. Portions are small but food is rich and very filling (almost too filling for Miami). Great vegetarian option too. This was my choice space for several birthdays in a row. My fifteen (or 2-3) minutes of fame: When the Travel Channel filmed this place a few years ago, they invited us up to the VIP area (which is a net hung from the ceiling) and interviewed us about the restaurant. I waited forever for that to air!
(5)Jessica C.
Sexy and Sultry Decor and great theme but food was not tasting as good as the place looked. I ordered sea bass and it was overcooked. The lobster bisque was not lobster bisque; instead, a spin on Tum Yum Soup with barely any lobster. My friend had the chicken and it was surprisingly good with the sauces it came with. Nice place, maybe I'll come back to party on Mondays but probably won't come back to dine here.
(3)Liya E.
When our sources in South Beach nightlife (cab drivers) told us about this place, they painted the picture of a club where one can DANCE. Except, to our surprise, this was actually a restaurant and there was no dance floor. What made this factor even more sad was that the music was absolutely amazing and you just could not help but dance. The DJ on a Monday night was one of the best I've heard. The makeshift dance floor was the area in front of the bar where the constant traffic makes you feel like you are in a subway in rush-hour. However, after a few drinks we didn't mind the crowds too much and found a nice spot in the corner with the minimized shoving. My grey goose on the rocks was $12, which is actually less than some other places. And I didn't have to wait forever to get the bartenders to take my order.
(3)Yendi V.
In its hey day Tantra was the place to spot Madonna having dinner with Ingrid Caseres or some large athlete sitting at a table with a bunch of slender beauties look terribly uncomfortable in their hardly there clothing. Point is, I was definitely under age when I was there during that time and had a FABULOUS White Chocolate Martini. It was summer in Miami and traditions take us on the beach as we bar hop from place to place. I told Snoopy she had to try the White Chocolate Martini from this place. Tantra has its industry night on Mondays and it might have been the only place where everyone inside was very ridiculously good looking. The sexy house music had me dancing the entire time we were there well except when the waiters would walk through the dance floor with trays of food (yuck). The white chocolate martini was carelessly prepared and served in a plastic martini cup. The chick made it and it looked like a watered down piña colada, ew. The decor is wonderful thanks to the skillfully adorned walls. Wooden statues of Buddha everywhere and the lighting was dim. Not bad! #Yelp
(3)E T.
OK, so we went to this place with a group of about 8 people (which was our first mistake) This restaurant is really geared towards the couples as most, if not all the tables have mesh skirt things hanging from the ceilings to create a 360 degree privacy wall within your own table. This would normally be ok, if let's say I had my wife with me, however being with a group of people that you really don't know (nor to care to know) that well. In any case, the food was very unique, and certainly spiked my interest. We rang up a $1,400 bill, which for that many people was pretty good - however this is how we like to roll in most cases.
(4)Michelle S.
I know there are very mixed reviews, but I can only review for my experience, which was really GREAT! We were the first to arrive in our party, it was early on a Friday. We were surprising a bday lady who didn't know we would be there. The hostess was so sweet and asked if we would like her to bring some balloons. I thought, great, the bday girl will love it, and she did. It was a nice thoughtful touch and she really went the extra step to make the night special for my friend. Service was outstanding, even though there were not many people dining there that evening. The server advised us that Saturday and Monday are their happening nights. We were just there to eat and drink, so I enjoyed the privacy and extra special attention we got. I had a nice glass of red wine and the salmon dish. Cooked perfectly and the sides were a nice compliment to the dish. Everyone at my table enjoyed their meal, including my husband that got the HUGE bone it rib eye, looked like dinner for Fred Flinstone...LOL. It is an expensive place to eat/drink, but the food and service were both great. We did not get desert, nothing really appealed to us, which is where they lost a star from me, maybe next time there will be a better desert selection.
(4)Joe D.
This is a cool unique place. The reviews aren't that great but I thought it was relatively good. It's interesting, has several beautiful eastern european servers, eclectic art and decor. The food was good. I had the filet medium, which was very good. As a group, we ordered a seafood and raw bar type of group app. Good stuff, everything in the ocean was there. Wine, martinis, and so on. Good times.
(4)Adelina R.
I expected more. Food was overpriced, not that great, and I left hungry. :-( The grass floor was cool, but not for wearing my stilettos that night. Not sexxy when you're walking on your toes in heels...
(2)Martin O.
I dined here one Halloween when Lincoln Road was just starting to get crazy. This is one of the fancier restaurants on Lincoln Road and the service is top notch. I thought the food was very good, but it's more of night club than a restaurant. It's located on Lincoln Road near Washington, not close to most of Linconl Road restaurants. For parking, try the Lincoln Road lot by the convention center.
(4)David M.
This place is a joke and you're probably seeing a pattern with all these other reviews. Overpriced. Underwhelming food. Less than stellar service. All of which is available at top dollar. Never going here again.
(1)Christine P.
This has got to be one of my worst restaurants experiences in the US. -When we walked in, no one was there to greet us. When we went to find the host, we stood in the middle of the hall for 10 minutes before someone sat us down, even though the place was half empty. No waiter or host even said hello until 6 minutes later. -Even though we had a reservation, we had to wait at the bar and they told us we could sit in the area that is completely empty or wait. We opted to wait for a booth. -The food is complete crap. The salad was too sweet, probably one of the worst salads ever. Not only that, but the "heirloom tomatoes" in the salad were not even visible. We had to ask the waiter where the tomatoes were. The risotto I had was inedible, mushrooms crunchy and not made well. I can't believe they called this risotto. The dessert was disgusting. I've never had molten chocolate cake like this. I can't believe they even call this molten chocolate cake. It was like a dry brownie with very artificial strawberry ice cream, and it almost made me feel sick. -Service was the worst. Our waitress was incredibly slow. Even though we ordered earlier than the table next to us, they were served more promptly and quickly. I also had water dripping over me from the A/C above me. We told the waitress, they did nothing except feel the drip. Wow, that's really helpful, thanks for feeling the drip and then doing nothing about it. -The atmosphere is too weird. I don't know about you, but I don't want to eat dinner with some weird rated X scene in the background. This place is not good for non couples. -Lastly, they included tip automatically into the bill even though we were only a group of 4. If I had my way, I would not have given anything close to the 18% automatic tip. All together, I paid $70 for my entree, salad and dessert. This is the worst ROI I have ever had on any eating experience if you can call this place a restaurant. For the sake of god, don't go here, don't waste your time.
(1)Roshani P.
Excellent Food, Excellent Ambiance, Excellent Service....just a long wait until we were seated (we even had reservations!). Would definitely go back again!
(4)Ahmad R.
WOWWW... This place was on the food network and was listed as this cool establishment in south beach.. i could not have been more disappointed On one of my recent trips to south beach (Trust me, the key to life is always having an upcoming trip to south beach :)) I went to check out this place. I was feeling particularly foodie so i asked to speak to the chef. We looked at the menu and nothing was too enticing so i asked if she would create a tasting menu. Sure no problem 7 courses and nearly 1000 DOLLARS LATER.. i had a remarkably average meal that was over freaking priced. Their standard menu is closer to 20ish per entree. How in the hell does a tasting menu equal out to nearly 1k?? Now, i will accept responsibility in that did not ask how much they would charge..but goodness.. I live in San Francisco, where there are always 8-10 restaurants that rank in the top 100 worldwide. I could have eaten at ANY OF THEM for less than this mediocre place. I was so floored by this, that i paid the bill and then went to one of south beach's wonderful night clubs to drink away the pain. This meal was the first meal on earth that EVER made me feel good about spending 250 on a bottle of vodka. It was far less over priced than this meal Even the food network can be wrong... DO NOT GO HERE
(1)Jennifer D.
Went here for some drinks after reading some interesting reviews about this place. Tantra definitely stood up to its highly regarded, stunning decor-- the main room has very romantic dim red lighting, and interesting lamps and unusual faux grass floors when you first walk in. Drinks were well made, and priced pretty much in line with most swanky SoBe bars (~$15 for a martini). If my review stopped there this place would get 5 stars. But service can make a big difference. When we came in, we told the first person we saw (perhaps he was a bus boy) that we were just having drinks, and he said that they weren't very busy so we would sit anywhere. So we sat down, and our waiter came over, and we said we were just having drinks, and he immediately had us move to the bar. We told him what we had been told, and he insisted we move. Not a big deal, really, just inconsistent, which is kind of annoying. Then, at the bar, our bartender was just a bit clueless. My date asked about dessert wines, and she simply had no idea. Someone else working there had to help out. Overall, I'd recommend checking this place out, at least for the decor, and probably on a more happening night than a Tuesday so you get to see more of the scene. Just don't expect great service (and I hear the food is pretty lousy and overpriced, if you read some of the other reviews)
(3)Javier M.
How many Saturdays did I loved you Tantra? Do you remember how I used to prefer you amongst all your brothers and sisters? Yes. Ours was a sensual relationship; you lured me with your many enclaves and purplish lights. The many seats, nooks, and cushioned inlets hidden by the big curtains. Your food was great, and you were the only one who could whisper to me some verses in Hookah....aaaahhh, yes! You were never fringed, and yet I saw many celebrities in your bosom. I never understood the haystack that you had at the entrance; and many times I almost set you on fire with my cigarette.... even then, you still allowed me to smoke; even then, your lovely waitstaff still gave me many drinks on the house. Yes, ours was an affaire to remember, even when I couldn't bear to see you on Monday's; the day that you betrayed me by becoming "the" venue. But you always returned to nurture me. And thus I rate you good, 4 unlike your brothers and sisters, you never threw a Tantrum.
(4)Heather L.
By far the worst restaurant experience that I have ever had. Food overrated. Service unforgivable. Prices absolutely ridiculous. Went there over a year ago and I'm still mad that I went there and wasted my money and time.
(1)Blak B.
I give it a thumbs up for the decor. All except the damn grass floor entrance. Hmmm looking @ it you say it's interesting. But if you are a woman in high heels(most of us are) that's not the sexiest way to get to your table! Lol.. But if you manage not to get your shoe stuck ladies the rest is very pretty. The lobster bisque is delish and the steak is tasty... The menu is supposed to intrigue you being that everything you eat is some type of aphrodisiac.. Well I'm not sure it worked on me but hey I'm a tough Barbie hehe.. Pricey..
(4)jasmine s.
Food sucked! Atmosphere was interesting but not that interesting.
(3)Britt M.
I came here four years ago and remember thinking - WOW ! I chose to return on my trip to Miami last month and this time was sorely disappointed by both the service and food. Firstly, our waitress was extremely cold, and borderline rude. Despite many empty seats and booths around us, she refused to change our table, which was shaky, directly under an uncomfortable glaring spotlight, and the smallest in the restaurant. When she realized we wouldn't be shelling out hundreds and hundreds of dollars, she became even more curt, at the end of the meal snatching our napkins away as if to signal we should leave, just as I leaned in for a kiss with my boyfriend. Unfortunately the British accent, sneering at our meal choices, and raised eyebrow didn't help. No one wants to be treated so condescendingly, even if we are young clients. It was the only meal in Miami that made us regret the 18% gratuity Miami automatically adds on to most meals. Nonetheless, we still spent over $200 for two entrees, one appetizer, and three drinks. No dessert. The Cuban coffee sauce on the filet mignon was tasty, but the meat was overcooked. My lamb was also extremely overcooked and tough - and for roughly $50 each, one hopes they can cook meats to the desired degree of doneness. We ordered their "apple" version of the martini, and it tasted like someone poured that cheap Puckers apple alcohol in it - absolutely not worth $15. The only highlight that still remained from my first trip was the ambiance - aphrodisiac-inspired menu, grassy floor, mood lighting, and soft-core porn on a flat screen - i.e. only in Miami. Overall this was the most disappointing meal in Miami. My bf and I have no problem paying a good amount for a good meal, but it should be, in fact, GOOD. I enjoyed the $30 meal of arroz con pollo at Miami's Puerto Sagua infinitely more.
(2)Truc N.
This place has great setting, great décor, an awesome theme, and good service. The food was good (nothing special though, but it was good) and the drinks were different, very clever and pretty presentation. The lighting is too dim for groups, it's quite slow, and way too overpriced. I don't think I'll come back. Once to try is enough. I'm sure there are a lot of other comparable restaurants to try in Miami that's easier on the wallet.
(3)Sandy S.
Tantra is such a unique place - there really is nothing like it. Truly a theater for dinner. What I mean by that is that there is always something going on around you, the people watching is GREAT!, the setting is awesome, the grass provides a funky approach when compared to your traditional restaurants and its a fun place! These days a dining experience should be much more than simply getting seated and fed! Tantra has been around for a long time - longevity is a sign of quality. Make an evening out of it and dance the night away after dinner. This place is quintessentially South Beach!
(4)Wendy N.
What a train wreck. My boyfriend and I have dined all over the world. We went to Tantra for a special dinner when we were in town last year, we asked if a chef's tasting menu would be possible, and it was. The chef even came out to introduce courses (side note - she was on Top Chef). Not only was it overpriced but the food wasn't very good. I don't mind paying hundreds of dollars per person if it is worth it, but it wasn't. The ambiance was nice, we were in a small room removed from all the craziness, but the bottom line is that we paid $800 for food and wine and it was a $50 meal.
(2)Denise L.
One word: Overrated!!!! (In terms of dinner) I saw this restaurant on Food network, so I was extremely excited to try this place out. It's known for it's sexy food and atmosphere. The food is made with ingredients that are aphrodisiac. It was described to me as an unforgettable, unique dining experience which touches your five senses. Walking into the restaurant, I was not impressed at the decor at all. It has a twist of Asian and Moroccan, but I didn't think it was anything cooler than what I've seen in SF or NYC. As we sat down at our table, our hostess (Who was trying TOO hard to be cute and pretty) offered us water. We asked for still, we got sparkling. As we looked at the menu, NONE of the appetizers looked good at all. Or appetizing to ANY of our senses! There was an aphrodisiac platter, which sounded interesting, but for $40 and all we got were oysters, cavier, foie gras, and a few grape leaves? forget it... So onto the entrees, I had the Lobster Napoleon. It came with 3 layers of chilled lobster meat with thin layers of scalloped potatoes. I thought it was pretty good, but for $40, it better have been darn good. My boyfriend had the ahi tuna and foie gras. It was delicious, but again for $42... better be. For dessert, we had the warm chocolate cake with gelato. Yummy, but nothing special from any other warm chocolate cakes.... except that it was $15... Our waitress was horrible. Granted she warned us it was her first week, but she kept talking and never listening to my questions. That was annoying. While my boyfriend was drinking his sparkling water, the water boy poured tap water in there! For an so-call upscale restaurant like this and for paying these prices, I expected a lot more. Also, cocktails were $15 a drink and they were that great at all. NOT a memorable experience at all. It was such a waste to spend an evening at South beach dining here at Tantra. The only sense it touched was a sense disappointment.
(2)Frank G.
Great dinning experience. Especially with your spouse. They make sure you use all your sense while enjoying you dinner. The place looks very mysterious from the outside. Yes, as motioned in other reviews. They have St. Augustine Blue Grass as there floor "indoor". I spoke to the manager and he said its high maintenance since it can't be water. They change the grass out every week. The have very nice tables, even for large groups. They have old international films playing on various screens in black and white with some nudity. Great place for a nice romantic dinner.
(4)Erin E.
We went last year during Miami Spice. Yes the ambiance is lovely, sexy but that quickly dissipated when our 9.30 reservation really meant 10.15 and the bar was out of Jameson (I only got a 1/4 of a glass, at least it was comped!). We believe the 4 of us were seated in the Miami Spice menu room because we were in the first room and the food at Olive Garden was better. Chicken was tough and cold, 3 of the 4 soups were cold and 3 of the 4 chocolate molten lava cakes were far from 'molten'! Oh, and though we should have known by the price but that still doesn't allow a restaurant to pull this off: Chateauneuf du Pape for $35 a bottle and it had gone bad. The fact that a restaurant would do this is horrid and so tacky. Obviously they do not care about their diners. Miami Spice may attract some cheap-o clients like anything else but we take it as an opportunity to try out what we haven't yet. I will forever talk terribly about this place. FOOD = LOWER THAN OLIVE GARDEN SERVICE= DMV IS NICER
(1)Yen T.
went there to try this so called aphrodisiac cuisine. I was not impressed and it really didn't get me in the mood. The food was average. For the price, you expect way better quality.
(1)Roll T.
We went here because someone in my group had seen a special about it on TV regarding their aphrodysiac menu. Thus, in fairness, our expectations were of an amazingly kickass place to visit in South Beach. Instead, it turned out to be an ultra-pretentious, overrated piece of crap restaurant where the only two selling points were: 1) the decor and 2) a smoking hot fake blonde waitress. Other than that, the food was unremarkable, the service was pathetic, and the prices were undefendable. There are many wonderful options in South Beach -- this is not one of them...
(2)Alex p.
Tantra was good (pluses and minuses) Awesome music, good drinks, friendly wait staff. Food wise not to expensive all things considering, appetizers were great ( Tuna tartar a must if you're down there) , main course ( Salmon pinwheel) was good but a bit salty for my taste. Some draw backs: no room to dance at ALL barely able to make way to the door ( to be fair it may have been a transition time between restaurant to lounge, we didn't stick around to see if it got better), got so packed that service took forever (resulted in waitress forgetting one of our drinks), lastly the smoking (I know the No smoking in NY has spoiled me, but thats a big pain in the rear when the place is over packed and full of smoke). All in all a good time!
(4)Matthew E.
It was our first night in Miami and asked the cab driver for a decent restaurant around the area. He took us to Tantra, which he had been to many times. While we were immediately impressed by the ambiance with the grass and waterfall, we were quickly discouraged by the prices on the menu. We had made the mistake of assuming the cab driver lived a modest lifestyle. We made the decision to stick it out since we were on vacation and most of us had wished we hadn't. The food was nothing exceptional especially for the price of $60 average per person. Everyone's favorite was the truffle mashed potatoes although we would have been happy with just a side of those instead of our meal. Bottom line is that there are other restaurants that are far better priced for a way better meal in the area. Lario's and Nobu both come to mind with Nobu being more on the expensive side. While the restaurant promotes foods that supposedly put you in the mood, the only mood I felt when I left was ripped off.
(2)Simone G.
Great House music on Monday nights but too small of a place. You'll be spending most of your time avoiding getting stepped on your feet.
(3)rachel c.
I went here with a date and had a fantastic time. When you walk in, it is grass- real grass on the floor. The interior is dark and all candle or dimly lit. In Miami you can have a fun dinner for 2 here around 7-8 and hear great music with a more upscale crowd. The waitress was hot. For dinner we had the most enomous shrirmp cocktail ever, caesar salad, and the entree was salmon, but seared and rolled up like a coil over wild rice. We did order something else fab, but my memory is poor due to overindulgence of partying for NYE- sorry Tantra mgmt. This place is awesome!!!! I hope to return :)
(5)Nenette Y.
Funny, I never knew this place was a restaurant... I thought they only served drinks, haha! My friends and I have been here a few times and have always had a good time... yes, there's *grass* on the floor so try to leave your stilettos at home... cool set up, though... we also saw the actor from superman (the TV show) the last time we were there, it was funny to see him drunk and trying to hit on a girl dancing on a table.
(4)liz r.
Very cool place...to go once. After that, it gets old. I didn't have the pleasure to eat here, but I did stay for the clubbing part. It was full of uptight snobby people and if I want to hang around people like that there are much better places with much better dj's. And there isn't much of a dance floor even if you do like the music.
(2)scott r.
Not sure you'd really come here for the food since its more like having dinner in a club. The food is absurdly overpriced, not very imaginative and poorly executed. Service wasn't very good but perhaps on par for SoBe. The giant love hammock is pretty cool though.
(1)Dana C.
This is a pretty funky place to go dancing. They have sod on the ground which is pretty funny to watch when girls get their heels stuck. SMALL dancefloor. The little room with the hammock is cool and if you can get up there - is a nice place to chill.
(3)Casey Z.
Mediocre food with subpar ingredients sold at a price that would make a Russian oligarch blush especially considering the inferiority of the ingredients. The place is notable for incredibly bad service and the most disrespectful staff I've ever met. The busboy was the sole attentive person. My card was declined 5 times by their POS of course when I went to the ATM to get cash it worked fine and my bank told me it was their POS. by this point I felt completely mistreated by the staff who behaved like I was a criminal and kept me waiting for half an hour and then wouldn't even give me my card back to go to the ATM and instead had the owner walk me over like a prisoner in custody. This is the kind of foolishness that makes people think the Miami restaurant scene is a joke, which it isn't, but this place most certainly is.
(1)Gabriel D.
I been going here every Monday for about a year and to me it's the most laid back "club" in miami that isn't really a club. Hookah , great food during restaurant hours, real couches, not those stiff uncomfortable ones like at other clubs. It also has a pretty local and tourist crowd and the music is like Space. Love it.
(5)Christopher P.
This was probably the worst nightclub I have ever been too in my life. The " VIP area" was 80% of the club leaving only a very small area for everyone else. On top of the that bar backs and cocktail waitresses pushing through us to get to the VIP area. Music was good but they had a drummer playing along to tech house which was so pointless and annoying. You want a good club in Miami? One word. Treehouse. That place is heaven, this was hell.
(1)Lama N.
my bf and I went there on a monday night because we were told that it was one of the best nights to visit. Very nice ambiance. People were classy. However, their dinner menu does not have a lot of variety. We ended up ordering a desert and a drink and our bill was $37 Not bad for south beach prices and the atmosphere of the lounge. Will visit again.
(4)Luis D.
Probably best restaurant/dance club I've been to in Miami great environment even better food the music is always good Mondays are the days to go. Overall it's one of the best up and coming businesses in Miami
(5)Louis T.
I moved to Miami recently and have been going to tantra the last two mondays. It's a very small for a "club" but I love it!. The music is awesome, with a really cool tribal feel, live drummer playing along. I saw a comment someone saying it's annoying but I think its great. he also doesn't play 10 songs straight so its not like theres no escaping it if you don't like it. I think they recently opened the back hip-hop room which is great as well. Theres a net hanging on the ceiling and the dancer there goes up on it to perform which I loved. All around I like this club, it's great to get away from the big club scene and chill with some good friends.
(5)Melanie A.
DO NOT GO HERE**** They let EVERYONE in. We were repeatedly asked for our picture to be taken, to buy roses,etc... How in the world do they expect anyone to have a good time when they are constantly being sold things?! It's insane!!! Also I got my phone stolen here last night Monday the 12th. This is a very sketchy place and I will never return.
(1)Daniel S.
This restaurant was truly amazing. Everything from the service to the food to the ambiance; a very romantic place. I won't lie, it is pricy, but you get what you pay for. I can't say enough of the service. They truly know what they are doing. And the food!! Oh my God the food. The flavors and texture and aromas holds true to their name. You have to go!
(5)Alex Z.
I love Tantra on Monday! So much Fun
(5)LaLa L.
This is a review for the lounge portion on Monday night. It was really weird to walk in with heels and hit a dark room and patch of grass! The music was really nice with a live drummer which really bring energy. The cost for men I think was about $20 which I think is a lot given that most people seemed to be couples. I thought the people for the most part looked nice and were having a good time, but I did get spoken to by some odd folks I could have done without. Really pushy. I think you could do a lot worse for a Monday night and the energy was lively!
(3)Luke H.
Skip it, unless it is Monday night. Buy dinner on Monday, and save your door fee ($20-50 each). Good food, but very very pricey.
(2)Sergio F.
According to WikiPedia (and popular folklore) Tantra is an ancient Hindu practice of rituals that may or may not have sexual undertones. If you ask me, they had a spot-on description of a night out clubbing! I came by for a milestone birthday of an old high school friend. Since I arrived WAY early, I had time to observe some of the interesting details of the place. The grass entrance at the beginning (yes, real grass) was an interesting bit and tripped up a couple of ladies in their high heels. Being the gentleman and "Marcus Graham" of Yelp Miami gladly helped out a couple of the ones in our party. The zen waterfall and horizontal ceiling fans above the bar had a hypnotic effecte to the effecte of "driiiinkkkkk, you will driinnnk." but nonetheless were nicve visually. Of course, the erotic art also subliminally enhanced the evening's mood. As the evening went on, the music kicked up from loungey to more urban (reggaeton, hiphop and salsa). It provided the soundtrack for a fun Saturday night. I had three very smooth amarettos on the rocks, reacquainting me with a drink of my younger years when I could truly be considered a Cougar Hunter. I also shared the requisite tequila shot with the birthday girl, and at $13 each the shots were very reasonably priced.) Although the amaretto was good, I will have to admit it was a second choice since my mixed drink of choice is a mojito. I was told they didn't make this drink, yet they had rum and made caipirinhas (a little bitter in my opinion). I suppose they could have swapped out rum for cachaca but anywho. Also docking half a star for the fact they didn't print the value of the automatic tip on your credit card slip and didn't give a detailed bill when you closed your tab. Valet parking was $10 (a steal on the beach) and they were open until 5AM, giving you ample opportunity to carb up afterwards. Rounding it up from 3.5 to 4 stars because of the fun night. I can see this as a regular Saturday night spot too!
(4)Ms. C.
Hands Down Best restaurant in Miami! Jeff who is the head chief took care of me and my friends. Ambiance was great too. First time in Miami, my sorority sister told me to visit her friend Jeff at Tantra. So I did with myself and my best friend, her brother and her boyfriend and it was the best food we ever tried. Jeff takes time with his dishes so you can taste the exotic sensation in your mouth. Immaculate and delicious flavors! Some of the dishes just melts in your mouth. The Tartar was an ultimate favorite! THANKS JEFF! YOU GUYS ROCK!
(5)Garrison S.
We stayed with a price-fixed dinner menu with an appetizer, entree, and desert for $56 per person (included gratuity and one drink). If you are going to sway from the regular menu, be prepared to pay $30 (low) to $69 (high) on main entrees. It has a lovely ambiance as it has had for the last 10+ years. IF you can get a price-fixed menu, go for it. Otherwise, save the valet parking ($25) and go somewhere else. The other choice to save the $25 is to park at the garage on Lincoln Road and walk the three short blocks! Hope this helps!
(5)Sujan P.
This place blows. You enter but then you can't get out except through a long route. Also there's tons of guys giving false advertisements of discounted or free entry til you get to the club then they pretend they don't know the promoter on the street or have ever heard the name of the guy despite the initials on the wristband given to you
(1)jewel m.
I've been coming to Tantra for years now, and I'm always so impressed at how consistently amazing the food, the entertainment, and service are. My boyfriend and I came her for dinner, drinks, and dancing, and as always, Tantra delivered an amazing time. First of all, the ambience is sensual and decadent, with sexy boudoir-style draperies, rich fabrics, and a gorgeous light show. The entertainment is always great, with everything from live DJ and gorgeous dancers, to live drums, even a trumpet or sometimes a saxophone. Theres always something to watch and the atmosphere is perfect for everything from a romantic dinner or a party with friends. I also appreciate that the crowd is very classy. We were greeted very professionally at the door and shown right to or table. Our table was very comfortable and we had a great view of the rest of the room, so we could watch everything going on. Our waiter was very professional and courteous, attentive, and knowledgeable. He gave us some recommendations and he seemed to have a true knowledge of the food. Service is always key for me, so I was very impressed with the server, the waitresses, and even the bus boys who were always quick to clear our table, freshen up drinks, and even keep our candle pretty. As always, the oysters were some of the best to be found in South Beach. I'm a huge oyster fan so I order them everywhere I go, and the oysters at Tantra are always outrageous. Our Tuna Tartare was also amazing. It was very fresh with huge lumps of tuna and a really great, natural flavor. The Foie Gras (another one of my all-time favorites!) was perfectly cooked and presented so beautifully on the plate it was almost a shame to eat it. On to the main event, the SEA BASS was so amazing I will probably have dreams about it for years. The presentation, as always, was just five stars. Each plate is a work of art and just looking at them come out of the kitchen is a decadent exploration for the eyes. And the FLAVOR! I'm not sure how they manage to make it taste so creamy and rich and natural at the same time. It simply melts off of your fork and into your mouth. I could barely stop talking about how great it was long enough to eat it. (Or was it the other way around?) ;-) My boyfriend had the Filet Mignon, and it came out perfectly cooked to order, so tender he could literally cut it with his fork. Tantra is known for having a great champagne selection, so after we had stuffed ourselves to the gills, we indulged in a bottle of bubbly and settled in to watch the transition from romantic candlelit five-star restaurant to sensual, sexy, pulse-of-South-Beach nightclub. The music, as always, was great. The main room almost magically began to fill up with an endless-seeming stream of sexy, classy people. A great mix of locals and visiting business-types, with a very classy european edge. I know I keep throwing in the word "Classy", but it really is the best description of the crowd here on Mondays. Upscale, refined, and just oozing good taste. The music and ambience are just so amazing that everyone is dancing and having a great time. The cushions on the seats in the VIP come up and all the girls can get up on the seats and dance. The drummer really adds pizzaz to the music, and the DJ, Louis D, is always innovative and entertaining. The dancers were just show-stoppingly sexy, and even the bouncers were big sexy Russian types! This place is just full of eye candy, from the bouncers and bartenders to the dancers and bottle servers. Theres something to tantalize the senses everywhere you look. Literally, this place is a Tantric experience. Basically, if you want an entertaining evening, full of indulgence, sensuality, romance, and one of the hands-down best party atmospheres in SoBe, go to Tantra for dinner and drinks. Two thumbs way up!
(5)Alexandre H.
Wow, reviews are all over the place, and some mention adjectives (and verbs) not commonly found in restaurant reviews. Some reviewers highlight the sexy sensual and erotic side of it, others say the food is worse than reheated leftovers from McDonald's. The day we got invited to come here I was unsure if I should take with me an extra load of Viagra pills or a fresh bottle of Pepto-Bismol! Anyway, we went during Miami Spice month, that is, they also offer a special selection of dishes under a prix-fixe structure. It's a chance to try different upscale restaurants for a more affordable price. So after a quick stop at Walgreens for the aforementioned medicines, off we went. Here are the details: - Ambiance: yes, everything you read in other reviews is true. Grass at the entrance, beautiful staff, tecno-music, and almost-porno Indian made movies on the screen (I watched lesbians getting .. let's say... very friendly on the screen). Please don't bring grandma here. Really. - Food: We ordered from the Miami Spice menu, and this was a mistake. The waiter turned unfriendly (low revenue table?), the food was just average, included desert was pathetic. One person in our group ordered a dish from the regular menu, and that was very good. So, due to the uncertainty about the quality of the food, allied with the high prices, I decided to give only 3 stars to Tantra. - Service: very good, from the stunning bartender lady (in a mini skit so short that I could see her navel, yeah, really), to the hostess (she put Penélope Cruz to shame). Our waiter was very attentive until we ordered from the Miami Spice menu, then he was MIA. In summary: like I said in other reviews about SoBe trendy restaurants: this place is NOT for everyone (specially not the in-laws neither your teenage Mormon niece visiting from Utah). But it is an experience that I recommend. A place to be seen (and see), to have fun, get some exotic food, to be immersed in a new Tantric trance... (I'm getting carried away, sorry) I will come again and let the waiter recommend the dishes. If they are as good as some reviewers say, then I will add another star (or two) to my rating. Tune in again soon.
(3)Laura Suris G.
Talk about disappointment and wasted money! A couple of friends and I were walking down Collins and a promoter told us about this place and how good it was. We walked three blocks off the strip in the wrong direction. When we get to tantra for the club we ask if there's a lot of people inside and they tell us that there's like 700 people. We pay our cover and walk in only to find a minimum of like 50 people and no one is dancing! I felt scammed! I will never go here ever again! We left immediately and they wouldn't return our money! Not cool
(1)Almog B.
If I was able to give this place no stars I would. I am never going back to this place again. Period. My girlfriend and a few friends and I went here last night. The place is nice and is decorated well. However, the bartender is a very rude person and is a thief. She charged my friends and I different amounts for the same drink. She would make up prices and we would of course assume she was being honest and we would pay. My friend was paying $14 for a mojito when I was paying $16. Later I found out that she was charging me for gratuity ahead of time and didn't even mention it to me when I tipped her well. I left the place and felt cheated. I asked the bartender for an explanation and she was extremely rude. Do yourselves a favor and never go to this place.
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