When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Jaya at The Setai
Why Jaya at The Setai is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jaya at The Setai is a distinguished Asian cuisine restaurant located within the luxurious Setai Hotel in Miami Beach. Celebrated for its sophisticated ambiance, Jaya offers an exceptional culinary journey through South Asia, seamlessly integrating flavors from Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Balinese traditions, all skillfully crafted by Executive Chef Vijayudu Veena. The restaurant features an inviting indoor dining area infused with elegance as well as a serene outdoor courtyard equipped with a retractable roof, perfect for al fresco dining in a comfortable yet upscale environment. Signature dishes such as the Peking Duck, Truffle Dumplings, and Thali Platters cater to varied palates, including vegetarian options, complemented by a curated Asian-inspired cocktail menu, fine sake selections, and a lavish wine list. Jaya also hosts a famed Sunday Jazz Brunch offering live jazz music, complemented by unlimited Louis Roederer Champagne and Bloody Marys, creating an ideal atmosphere to savor with friends. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant enforces a casual elegant dress code to enhance the sophistication of the dining experience. Its location within The Setai places it amidst other fine dining options and luxury hotel amenities, making it a great meeting spot for both locals and travelers seeking refined flavors and an inviting setting in Miami Beach.
Here's what people think of Jaya at The Setai
As of recent, Jaya at The Setai holds a 3.9-star rating based on 1713 reviews.
The overall reception of Jaya at The Setai is generally positive, reflected in a 3.9-star rating from over 1,700 reviews. Guests frequently praise the restaurant’s ambiance, describing it as vibrant and beautifully decorated, which contributes strongly to the dining experience. The food quality is often highlighted as gourmet and inventive, with particular acclaim for signature dishes like the Peking Duck and curated Asian specialties. Many reviewers commend the attentive and knowledgeable service, especially noting exemplary sommeliers who enhance the experience by expertly pairing wines and drinks. The Sunday Jazz Brunch and sunset hours also receive favorable mention for their lively yet elegant atmospheres.
Positive reviews emphasize the restaurant's sophisticated setting, diverse and well-executed menu, and the immersive presentation of South Asian cuisines that deliver a unique and memorable meal. Guests appreciate the harmonious balance of flavors and the excellent cocktail and sake selections that pair well with dishes. The indoor-outdoor dining options and live entertainment add to the appeal, making Jaya a preferred choice for special occasions and social gatherings.
Conversely, some negative feedback highlights pricing concerns, with a few diners finding the experience relatively pricey for the portions or value received. There are occasional mentions of inconsistent service experiences, with some reports of indifferent or rude staff contrasting with the majority’s praise. Additionally, dress code enforcement can feel restrictive to some guests, impacting accessibility for casual visitors.
In conclusion, Jaya at The Setai successfully offers a refined and atmospheric dining destination that delights many with its culinary artistry and elegant setting. While there are some critiques regarding cost and service variability, the restaurant's distinctive South Asian flavors and sophisticated environment ensure it remains a noteworthy venue for those seeking a quality meal and an inviting place to meet friends in Miami Beach.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Артем Кошеваров
We celebrated a birthday at Jaya. The atmosphere and the show are impressive – the fire performance and the water in the center of the room look stunning. Big plus for that. Unfortunately, the service was a huge disappointment. From the very start, there were no vases for flowers (in a restaurant where people usually celebrate special occasions!). Our bouquet ended up just leaning against a chair. For bringing our own cake, they charged $14 per person, but never stored it in the fridge – it was warm and the ganache melted. On top of that, they charge extra to cut the cake. Since we refused, they first gave us a flimsy plastic knife, then a butter knife, and finally a steak knife, which was at least usable. They mixed up one of our cocktails, and with tea the situation was just ridiculous. We ordered it before the cake, but it only arrived after we had already sung happy birthday, made a wish, cut the cake, and almost finished eating it. One tea was even replaced randomly with chamomile instead of mint. The food itself – just fine. Not bad, not amazing. Don’t expect anything special. The atmosphere and show are the strongest part. The DJ played some decent tracks, but the transitions were really strange – cutting off songs at their best moment. Maybe some people like that style, but for us it was just odd. The worst part: the bathroom. For a “premium” restaurant it was simply dirty, which is unacceptable. 📊 Overall: • Service – 2/10 • Food – 7/10 • Atmosphere – 8/10 • Bathroom cleanliness – 0/10 So overall, it’s a place you can go to if you want a flashy celebration with a show, but don’t expect great service or spotless facilities. Jaya really needs to fix the basics: service, cleanliness, and a bit more care for their guests. Until then, it’s more of a 2-star experience than a luxury one. My final rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2 out of 5).
La'Jada Randle
Jaya was truly a next-level experience. The ambiance was beautiful, and the entire restaurant felt impeccable and exciting to take in. I enjoyed multiple shows during my dinner, which made the evening feel even more special. While the service was a bit slow, the entertainment helped balance it out, and our server was kind despite the packed house—so the wait was understandable. I went for the Miami Spice menu, and the selection of options was impressive. Overall, I absolutely loved it and would definitely go back.
Bushra Alam (Nanoslam)
Had the best experience here when we came for lunch and I wish we stayed at the hotel. The food was amazing - we tried the Miami Spice Menu and it was incredible value. The food was well seasoned, very fresh and refreshing. We also had some drinks which were equally good. Our waitress Inda was a pleasure. Told us to take a look at the pool and the beach. I will definitely consider staying here next time I am in Miami.
Iana Tenzik
Had dinner at Jaya at The Setai — such an elegant and beautiful place. 🌟 The atmosphere feels luxurious, with amazing music from the DJ that set the mood perfectly. Cocktails were delicious, the food was excellent, and it’s definitely a spot where you can dress up and enjoy a special night out. Yes, it’s pricey, but worth the experience!
Sahai Panton
We had a great experience! The atmosphere was lively, thanks to the on-site DJ who played a fun mix of house music and other genres that really elevated the vibe. There was no wait at the buffet stations. The variety of food offered was impressive, almost overwhelming. They have everything from Indian and Chinese to Italian, with options suitable for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The dessert selection was also a highlight for us, especially the live crepe and vanilla ice cream station, which quickly became our favorites. For those who don’t drink alcohol, the mocktail options were a pleasant surprise. We especially enjoyed the passion fruit one, it was refreshing and full of flavour having been severed with mint and lime. You definitely get your money's worth.
How to reach Jaya at The Setai
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Why Jaya at The Setai may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jaya at The Setai with your friends?
Choosing the perfect spot for a group meetup involves balancing ambiance, food, and the overall experience—Jaya at The Setai offers a compelling setting for friends or family to gather in Miami Beach. The restaurant is nestled within the luxurious Setai Hotel, instantly placing you in an elegant and stylish environment that impresses from the moment you arrive. Its standout feature is the lush, open-air courtyard framed by softly lit palm trees and a calming water feature, creating an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and vibrant conversation beneath the stars. This unique al fresco dining experience is not only photogenic but also sets a celebratory yet comfortable vibe that complements social occasions perfectly. While the food may receive mixed reviews, the pan-Asian menu showcases flavorful dishes inspired by a range of culinary traditions from Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, and Japan, which appeals to groups eager to share diverse tastes. The space itself, designed for both comfort and style, provides an outlet for live music and a DJ, adding an upbeat element that lifts the atmosphere. For gatherings seeking an upscale, visually captivating venue to create memorable moments with friends, Jaya at The Setai is a top contender.
What kind of activities can groups enjoy at Jaya at The Setai?
Jaya at The Setai offers much more than just dining, making it ideal for groups looking to share a multifaceted experience. First, the spacious outdoor courtyard allows for relaxed socializing around the central water feature, with tables thoughtfully placed to accommodate groups of various sizes without feeling cramped. The setting is picturesque, perfect for photo opportunities and enjoying the tropical Miami breeze, making it ideal for casual gatherings or special celebrations such as birthdays or anniversaries. Beyond dining, guests can indulge in the ambient live music or a DJ set that elevates the energy without overpowering conversation, striking a balance between entertainment and intimacy. The bar area, inspired by Asian aesthetics with intricate wood paneling and mother-of-pearl counters, draws a fashionable crowd and offers sophisticated cocktails. This gives groups an alternative spot within the venue to start the evening with drinks before transitioning to their table for the main meal. Jaya’s layout and atmosphere promote mingling, laughter, and shared enjoyment, all key elements for a successful group meetup.
Why is Jaya at The Setai perfect for group meetups?
Jaya's design and ambiance specifically cater to groups seeking a unique and upscale experience. Unlike typical stuffy indoor restaurants, Jaya’s open-air concept under Miami’s warm skies lends an airy, unconfined feel that encourages guests to linger and enjoy each other's company. The lighting, with soft fairy lights woven around trees and subtle uplighting, creates a cozy yet upscale atmosphere that adapts well to both daytime lunches and vibrant evening dinners. This versatility means groups can meet for brunch, lunch, or dinner, each time enjoying the same inviting environment but with a different mood shaped by natural light or glowing night aesthetics. The pan-Asian menu, although priced on the higher side, offers an adventurous culinary journey where groups can share diverse small plates like tuna tacos with taro shells and jalapeño relish or duck spring rolls with Chinese five-spice, catering to varied tastes and diets within a group. Additionally, Jaya’s attentive service, led by a capable front-of-house team, strives to ensure that guests' needs are met—though some reviews have noted inconsistency, management appears responsive and willing to address issues promptly. This commitment to guest satisfaction is crucial when hosting groups who need seamless and attentive service.
What dining options and specialties make Jaya at The Setai stand out?
The food at Jaya reflects the culinary creativity of Executive Chef Vijayudu Veena, who draws from diverse Asian traditions spanning from India to Japan. This pan-Asian appeal makes dining at Jaya an exploratory shared experience, as groups can opt to sample a variety of dishes rather than sticking to a single cuisine. The menu features starters like shrimp har gau dumplings and truffle dumplings, each offering a fresh taste with meticulous presentation — ideal for sharing and starting conversations about food. Entrées such as pad thai with shrimp and Thai beef stir fry with hoisin sauce provide authentic flavors, highlighting traditional ingredients like tamarind, fenugreek, and Thai chili. For dessert, indulgences like housemade gianduja with hazelnut praline and vegan mochi cater to both classic and plant-based preferences. The emphasis on quality ingredients and technique is noticeable throughout, even if some dishes receive mixed critiques; this variety ensures there is something appealing for every palate in a group. The culinary offerings, paired with a well-curated selection of cocktails and beverages, round out the dining experience, ensuring that food remains a central, celebrated part of any group outing.
What can guests expect from the atmosphere and service at Jaya at The Setai?
The atmosphere at Jaya is one of balance between sophistication and casual comfort, set against the backdrop of Miami’s vibrant beach scene. Guests frequently praise the beautifully curated outdoor space with its water feature and string lighting that creates a serene yet lively dining environment. The setting lends itself well to both intimate conversations and larger group celebrations, enhanced by live music and occasional DJ performances that add a festive buzz. Service experiences may vary, with some guests noting exemplary attentiveness and others reporting lapses; however, the management’s quick response and offers of compensation reflect a genuine effort to maintain high standards. This dynamic suggests that while service may occasionally be inconsistent, the overall intent is to provide a welcoming and accommodating experience for every guest. The combination of elegant décor, thoughtful lighting, and a soundtrack of live music ensures that groups enjoy more than just a meal—they share an immersive social experience.
How does Jaya at The Setai fit into the Miami Beach social scene?
Jaya at The Setai occupies a unique niche in Miami Beach as a destination restaurant within a luxury hotel. It offers a quieter alternative to the more chaotic tourist-heavy spots nearby, targeting those who appreciate a blend of exclusivity, architectural beauty, and a diverse menu. The crowd is often fashionable and cosmopolitan, making it an excellent venue for groups wanting to be seen in a stylish yet relaxed environment. The restaurant’s name itself, meaning “victory” in Sanskrit, pays homage to one of the hotel’s original designers, giving the venue a sense of cultural depth and artistic flair. Its location steps away from Miami’s bustling nightlife but provides enough energy through its events and music to keep the vibe alive. For visitors and locals alike, it stands out as a place to meet up that balances luxury with liveliness, making it a preferred choice for celebrations or simply reconnecting with friends over good food and a memorable setting.
What practical considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Jaya at The Setai?
While Jaya provides a stunning venue and diverse menu, groups should consider some practical factors when planning their visit. The pricing is on the higher end, reflecting the premium location and sophisticated ambiance, so budgeting accordingly is important for larger parties. Booking a reservation ahead of time is advisable as the place can fill up, especially during weekends or special events with live music. Service inconsistencies reported by some diners suggest that groups should maintain clear communication with staff regarding their needs to ensure a smooth experience. The open-air layout, while beautiful, means that weather could impact the comfort level, so checking the forecast ahead of time or choosing a season when Miami’s weather is stable will enhance the visit. Finally, the menu is pan-Asian with a focus on sharing plates, so groups that enjoy culinary exploration and sharing will get the most out of their experience.
In conclusion, Jaya at The Setai offers a strikingly beautiful, culturally rich, and socially stimulating environment ideal for group meetups. Its impressive open-air courtyard, eclectic pan-Asian offerings, and a blend of sophisticated yet casual ambiance provide plenty of reasons to rally here with friends or family and create lasting memories.