If it were at all possible to keep this restaurant/pub all to ourselves, as locals, we would. It's THAT good.
Because Clarke's is an unassuming little spot on an unassuming little street several blocks away from Ocean Drive and well away from the typical tourist traps, a lot of people miss it. But that's exactly what makes it awesome.
When you walk in, it's traditional Irish Pub decor with the rich wood bar that wraps around one whole side of the restaurant. The other side is cafe tables and booths - but it's a small place - 30 tables max. The staff is excellent (a rarity on Miami Beach), attentive, helpful, always willing to accommodate special requests.
Most importantly - the food is OUTSTANDING. Every dish, every time. The Shepherd's Pie is authentic and delicious, the truffled mac-n-cheese is piping hot and topped with an irresistible crumb topping, the skirt steak is perfectly cooked and seasoned, Irish Spring Rolls are crisp and filled with a heavenly mix of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and corned beef. The burgers are amazing, fries are hand cut and yummy. You simply can't go wrong here.
But the REAL treat is brunch on Sundays. This is bar-none the best brunch in Miami from a food perspective. What Clarke's lacks in ocean views it more than makes up for with a Goat-Cheese and Herb omelet that is to die for, crisp chunky flavorful home fries, this chicken rosemary sausage that is delightfully surprising, and a vanilla french toast that makes all other french toast look like eggo waffles... seriously. Coffee is excellent, as are the mimosas. We're not bloody mary people - but have been told they're great too - slightly spicy. And, in the mornings during sunday brunch, it's so calm and quiet there, which is such a welcome reprieve from overcrowded south beach tourist restaurants.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.