A World Class Sunday: Jazz Brunch at Jaya in The Setai Miami Beach
If there is one thing you must do when the Miami sun hits just right, it is Sunday Brunch at Jaya at The Setai. I recently had the pleasure of heading there over Memorial Day weekend, and let me tell you—it wasn’t just a meal; it was a full-blown world-class experience.
Walking into The Setai feels like stepping out of the Miami chaos and into a serene, ultra-chic sanctuary. The ambiance is truly unique—I’d go as far as to say it's the only one of its kind in the world. Imagine a stunning courtyard, Zen-like stone-filled ponds, and that famous retractable roof that keeps things perfectly breezy.
For the brunch, they have a live jazz band that sets the most soulful, elegant tone. It’s not overbearing; it’s that perfect "cool" that makes you want to sit back, sip your champagne, and stay forever.
At Jaya, they give you a generous two-hour window, and trust me, you’ll need every minute of it. The spread is spectacular. We’re talking a global feast that covers every craving:
The Asian Station: Their signature Peking Duck and dim sum are non-negotiable.
The Carving & Grill Station: Premium meats and fish grilled to absolute perfection.
The Luxuries: A dedicated caviar station and a raw bar piled high with king crab legs and oysters.
The "Everything" Else: They even have a fantastic kosher selection and a dessert display that looks like an art gallery (the liquid nitrogen ice cream is a must-watch and a must-eat!).
And the drinks? They kept the Louis Roederer Champagne flowing. Whether you’re into mimosas, Bloody Marys, or just a crisp glass of bubbly, the service is seamless—your glass is never empty.
I went with a close friend who flew in all the way from Orange County, CA. She actually worked at the Four Seasons, so her standards are arguably the highest I know. Halfway through our second plate, she looked at me and said, "The Setai brunch is officially better." Coming from a Four Seasons alum, that is the ultimate stamp of approval.
The crowd is exactly what you’d expect from South Beach’s most elegant hotel. You should definitely dress elegant and formal—think chic sundresses, blazers, and stylish linens. It’s a sophisticated vibe, but also very celebratory. Around us, people were celebrating everything from milestone birthdays to simple friend "catch-up" dinners.
And because it’s Miami, the people-watching is 10/10. I actually spotted a couple from 90 Day Fiancé a few tables over! It was such a "so Miami" moment that just added to the fun of the afternoon.
I’ve been to Jaya for dinner before, and while I’d absolutely recommend it for the shows and the evening energy, the Sunday Jazz Brunch is an unmatched experience. If you’re looking to treat yourself to the best Miami has to offer, this is it.
