Classics With A Twist At "LT Steak and Seafood"

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - The Betsy South Beach located at the north end of Ocean Drive is known for its relaxed tropical interiors, low-key relaxed vibe and world-class cuisine.

Since it opened seven years ago, the main restaurant was the national brand known as BLT. This year award winning chef Laurent Touroundel revamped it and dropped the "B." It's now named after his initials "LT Steak and Seafood."

"Laurent Touroundel, our executive chef, wanted the freedom to expand his offerings and we wanted the freedom to change things up, so that's what we've done. We were able to really rock it when it comes to a fresh, locally sourced menu," said managing director Jeff Lehman.

And there's a whole lot going on at The Betsy these days, namely a huge expansion merging two buildings into one.

"We purchased the building behind us on Collins Avenue, formally The Carlton Hotel. We're connecting them with bridge and the bridge is more art than a bridge and it will be the way people get from wing to wing," Lehman said.

So lets talk food.

Chef Carlos Torres is at the helm on daily basis, serving up classic American seafood and steak dishes with a twist.

During CBS4's Lisa Petrillo's visit, the meal began with LT's famous giant popovers, made with cheese and cracked pepper.

"You just know you're going to to fill up on it, it's going to happen, just go with it," said Petrillo after tasting it. "It's too good not eat."

First up was some delicious seafood starting with a delicious mixed seafood ceviche with grouper, octopus, shrimp and crabmeat in a pool of Miami spiced coconut milk.

The Branzino was served whole with a mushroom moho brown butter sauce with lemon and crispy shallots.

"It completely melts in your mouth. There's sweetness. It's so light and fresh and that mojo sauce. It's dessert-ish," Petrillo said.

Where's the beef?

It's here. An eight hour braised short rib with jalapeno chimichurri sauce and a black garlic marinade.

"You don't have to cut it, it falls off bone. It's so tender, so moist and has a sweetness and kick at same time," Petrillo gushed.

LT Steak and Seafood is offering a "Miami Spice" type fixed menu through the end of October.

It's opened for lunch and dinner daily. For more info: www.thebetsyhotel.com.