Michelle Bernstein

Michelle Bernstein’s cooking has always been tied to Miami. Born and raised there, the James Beard Award-winning chef grew up surrounded by the flavors of her Jewish and Latin heritage, influences that still find their way onto her menus.

Her career, though, reaches well beyond one kitchen. Bernstein won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: South in 2008 and has since become one of the most recognizable names in Miami dining. Café La Trova, her celebrated Little Havana restaurant with master cantinero Julio Cabrera, remains a calling card. Her portfolio also includes Sra. Martinez, La Cañita and Michelle Bernstein Catering.

2026 has been especially busy for the renowned chef, as her Miami story enters exciting new territory.

Bernstein stepped into the hotel world with Casa Cañita, a 24-room boutique property on Miami Beach’s Ocean Drive created with her sister, interior designer Nicolette Bernstein. It’s a natural pairing: Nicolette shaped the interiors, while Michelle leads the food and hospitality. With inspiration drawn from Cuba’s Golden Age and the Caribbean, Casa Cañita feels connected to the Miami both sisters know intimately.

© Ron Elkman/Sipa USA/Grosby Group

The year brought another hometown moment. During its 25th anniversary, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival honored Bernstein at its Tribute Dinner, recognition with particular meaning for a chef who has been part of the festival throughout its history.

She also continues to reach diners outside South Florida through CookUnity, bringing her cooking into homes across the country.

For Bernstein, Miami has never simply been the backdrop. It’s in the food, the restaurants and now, quite literally, the rooms.

Her next act isn’t taking her away from home. It’s giving her another way to welcome people into it.