News Cafe

News Cafe is an iconic, casual restaurant located at 800 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139, well-known for its prime location ideal for people-watching, historic South Beach charm, and a Mediterranean-American menu. It is situated on the ground floor of The Tony Hotel.

Overview:

1. Iconic Location: Operating since 1988, News Cafe is a South Beach landmark that was a favorite of celebrities, including Gianni Versace, who visited daily.
2. Atmosphere: It offers a lively, casual, and energetic atmosphere with abundant outdoor seating on Ocean Drive, providing excellent beach views.
3. Cuisine: The menu features Mediterranean-American cuisine, including all-day breakfast options, seafood, burgers, and Italian dishes. Popular menu items include the Pina Colada Pancakes, Avocado Toast, and the Gianni Burger.
4. Offerings: The establishment operates as a restaurant, bar, and newsstand, offering a selection of international newspapers to complement the classic cafe experience.
5. Hours: Current operating hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 10:45 PM most days. In its original incarnation, it was open 24/7.

Planning Your Visit:

1. Reservations: Reservations are accepted, and calling ahead is recommended for specific seating preferences or large groups.
2. Parking: Paid street parking is available nearby.
3. Dining Options: Dine-in, takeout, and delivery services are offered.

For more information, you can visit the News Cafe South Beach official website or check out their menus online.

Historic Significance & The Versace Connection:

1. Gianni Versace's Daily Ritual: The cafe is most famously known as the favorite morning spot of late designer Gianni Versace. He walked there daily from his nearby mansion, Casa Casuarina, to buy international newspapers and have coffee.
2. A "Fashion Corner": The renovated interior now features a dedicated "Fashion Corner" honoring Versace, alongside nearly 100 vintage photographs and QR codes that play videos about the cafe's history.
3. The Newsstand: True to its name, it still houses a functional newsstand stocked with local and international publications, a rarity in modern South Beach.

Menu Highlights (2026)

The menu, overseen by Chef Alex Martinez, balances nostalgic originals with modern Mediterranean-American additions.

1. Iconic Classics: The original Tony’s Tomato Soup, Tuna Melt, and Eggs Benedict remain staples for returning locals.
2. Signature Dishes:
3. Pina Colada Pancakes: Served with grilled pineapple and coconut syrup.
4. Molten Chicken Parmigiana: A standout dish where the sauce and cheese are poured tableside.
5. Gianni Burger: A tribute burger featuring a smashed patty with "mac sauce" and caramelized onions.
6. Daily Favorites: Other top-rated items include Mahi Mahi Tacos, Avocado Toast, and Café Con Leche French Toast.

Operational Details

1. Hours: It is open from 8:00 AM to 10:45 PM Sunday–Thursday, with extended hours until 11:45 PM on Friday and Saturday.
2. Reservations: you can book reservations via OpenTable.
3. Vibe: It is highly regarded for its people-watching on Ocean Drive. While it has a casual, beachside feel, the official dress code is listed as business casual.
4. Pet Friendly: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area.