In 2022, former NFL star and Super Bowl champion Kayvon Webster joined forces with renowned food critic Starex Smith—widely recognized as @TheHungryBlackMan on social media—to embark on a bold venture in the heart of Miami. Together, they launched Smith & Webster Restaurant, an establishment that would quickly evolve into something much greater: the Smith & Webster Hospitality Group. In just two short years, this Miami-based group has made an indelible mark on South Florida’s culinary scene, boasting a portfolio of four thriving restaurants, including the celebrated Brandon’s Bistro in Pembroke Pines and Geraldine & Eula Mae’s Kitchen in Miami Gardens.
Their most recent triumph? A second Smith & Webster Restaurant in Coral Springs, a reflection of the group’s meteoric rise and commitment to redefining American cuisine.
A Recipe for Success
The Smith & Webster Hospitality Group has garnered accolades from some of the industry’s most respected voices, including Bon Appétit, Jet, and Essence, as well as local praise from the Miami New Times, which named it one of the city’s Top 10 New Restaurants. This success is no accident—behind it is a tireless focus on quality, creativity, and community.
At the group’s flagship Miami location, the energy is palpable. Located in Northern Miami-Dade County, it’s a perfect stop for tourists en route to South Beach, cruise vacations, or the airport. It’s also a destination in its own right, offering bold, inventive cuisine paired with high-energy service.
A Fresh Look and a Star Chef
To mark their ascent, Webster and Smith recently unveiled a revamped dining space in Miami. Featuring an elegant new aquarium of exotic saltwater fish, a state-of-the-art tempered glass wine cellar, and plush seating, the redesign creates a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant also boasts an upgraded sound system, setting the stage for unforgettable meals.
This refreshed environment provides the perfect backdrop for the culinary creations of Chef Latoya Jennings, a rising star who now helms the Miami kitchen. Known for her innovative approach to blending bold flavors and fresh ingredients, Chef Jennings is debuting a Fall Seafood Menu that promises to dazzle diners.
Star Dishes to Savor
One dish has captured the hearts of locals: the Oxtail Lasagna, a soulful twist on the Italian classic. Chef Jennings braises oxtails for six hours until they’re fall-apart tender, combining them with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and topping the creation with a house-made marinara sauce bursting with vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs. This weekend, the lasagna gets an indulgent upgrade with the addition of succulent crab and shrimp, transforming it into a showstopping surf-and-turf masterpiece.
The seafood menu also features standout options such as:
Come for the Food, Stay for the Experience
Smith & Webster offers something for everyone, from intimate date nights to large celebrations. The Miami location, at 486 NE 167th St, operates with the following hours:
- Friday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: Brunch from 12 PM – 4 PM, Dinner from 5 PM – 11 PM
- Sunday: All-day Brunch and Dinner from 12 PM – 8 PM
The Coral Springs location provides a convenient option for Broward County diners, ensuring Smith & Webster’s elevated American cuisine is never far away.
A Vision Rooted in Community
For Kayvon Webster and Starex Smith, Smith & Webster is more than a restaurant—it’s a love letter to Miami’s vibrant culinary culture. By championing scratch-made dishes and fostering spaces where people can gather, they’re not only shaping the local dining scene but also creating a legacy of excellence.
Whether you’re drawn by the innovative seafood offerings, the soulful Oxtail Lasagna, or the promise of an unforgettable evening, Smith & Webster Restaurant is setting the standard for dining in South Florida—one plate at a time.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at (305) 333-8272 for Miami or (754) 319-9629 for Coral Springs. Walk-ins are always welcome. Come hungry and leave inspired.
