The 38 Essential Miami Restaurants, April 2012

Here, now, is an updated version of Miami's Eater 38, your answer and ours to any question that begins, “Can you recommend a restaurant?” This highly elite group, which is in no particular order of importance or rank, has been culled from a panel of experts and covers the entire city, spans myriad cuisines, histories, locations, and, collectively, satisfies all of your restaurant needs, save for those who are never happy. Every so often we'll be adding pertinent restaurants that were omitted, have newly become eligible, or have stepped up their game. We'll also drop those that are no longer deemed 38-worthy. The only serious rule of engagement here is that a restaurant must be open at least six months to qualify for inclusion on the list.

After pouring over reader emails and comments, we've decided to drop The Local Craft Food & Drink, Timo, Islas Canarias, Chow Down Grill, The Villa by Barton G., Casa Tua, The Pit and Buena Vista Bistro.

The great news is that in their places come: Pascal's On Ponce, Esquina del Lechon, Old Lisbon, The Dining Room, NeMesis Urban Bistro, Makoto, Red, The Steakhouse, and Whisk Gourmet Food and Catering.

Think there's a vital omission? For the record, pop-up restaurants do not quality for a place on this map. How about a spot that shouldn't be here? Nominate your favorite restaurant in the comments section or here.