Six Michelin-Starred Chef Michael White to Open First Standalone Florida Restaurant in Coral Gables: MIKA

Mika Coral Gables
Mika Coral Gables

Culinary icon and six Michelin-starred chef Michael White, creator of New York City’s legendary Marea, is set to debut his first standalone restaurant in Florida. Located in the vibrant Coral Gables neighborhood of Miami, MIKA will showcase White’s celebrated Riviera-style cuisine while paying homage to the region’s rich bounty of local seafood and produce.

The restaurant’s menu will feature White’s signature dishes, including carpaccio-style crudos, handmade pastas, and expertly grilled proteins. Guests can anticipate beloved classics like langoustine carpaccio, fusilli with octopus and bone marrow, and the indulgent rosemary sea salt bistecca alla fiorentina. With a focus on fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flair, MIKA promises to be a celebration of flavor and innovation, anchored in the unique culinary traditions that White has mastered over his illustrious career.

While Chef White is renowned for his fine dining expertise, MIKA will offer a more approachable, yet sophisticated experience. The restaurant aims to serve as a welcoming neighborhood spot, offering unapologetically delicious food in a warm, convivial setting. White’s fresh take on hospitality will blend his extraordinary skillset with a genuine, down-to-earth dining atmosphere, setting MIKA apart as a destination for both locals and visitors alike.

White’s vision for MIKA is backed by an impressive partnership with Alex Pirez, founder of the luxury design-development firm Mocca Group, and Matt Safchik, a seasoned Miami food and beverage operator. Together, they chose Coral Gables for its burgeoning culinary scene and the opportunity to serve a truly local audience. Their collaboration brings not just another restaurant to Miami but an elevated and thoughtfully curated dining experience that integrates seamlessly with the neighborhood’s evolving food culture.

Chef Michael White’s legacy in the culinary world is well-established, with accolades that include six Michelin stars, a coveted two-star rating at Marea, a James Beard Award, and a three-star New York Times review. Known for his Mediterranean coastal cuisine, White spent nearly a decade living in Italy, where he honed his craft and developed his distinctive style of cooking that draws from the coasts of Italy, France, and beyond. His culinary expertise has graced the kitchens of top-tier restaurants such as Spiaggia, Fiamma Osteria, Alto, Convivio, Osteria Morini, and Ai Fiori.

MIKA is set to open later this year within The Plaza Coral Gables, a new upscale hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For those eager to experience Chef Michael White’s latest culinary venture, more information can be found at mikacoralgables.com.

Exploring Miami’s Classic Culinary Delights: A Food Lover’s Guide to the City’s Best

New Restaurants in Miami
New Restaurants in Miami

Miami, the vibrant heart of South Florida, has always been known for its dazzling art scene but this year, there’s more to explore beyond the contemporary art and hipster hotels. The city’s culinary landscape is witnessing a renaissance, with a series of classic eateries and new hotspots making waves. From Brickell to Sunny Isles, let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through Miami’s most iconic dining destinations.

Casadonna: Italian Riviera Vibes in Miami’s Historic Woman’s Club David Grutman’s Groot Hospitality, in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality, has reimagined a space in Miami’s historic Woman’s Club into Casadonna. This Italian Riviera-inspired restaurant serves a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. The space, designed by Ken Fulk, reflects a blend of gold and greenery, paying homage to the room’s historic past.

Pastis in Wynwood: A Touch of France Under the Miami Sun Keith McNally, a name synonymous with New York’s bustling restaurant scene, has brought his magic to South Florida with Pastis in Wynwood. Opened in April, Pastis presents a menu brimming with Escoffier-esque classics like duck à l’orange and Dover sole à la meunière. The ambiance is far from a traditional Lyonnaise bouchon; imagine dining under globe lights with rustic wood furniture, surrounded by an airy garden.

Rao’s Miami Beach: A Slice of New York in Loews Miami Beach Rao’s, an iconic New York eatery known for its clubby vibe and Italian cuisine, has opened its doors in Miami Beach. Their new outpost at Loews Miami Beach offers not just their signature meatballs and Sunday gravy, but also adds a Miami twist with a seafood tower and fresh catch of the day. The decor is a blend of classic and contemporary, maintaining Rao’s essence with a Miami-style uplift.

Tala Beach: Mediterranean Vibes at 1 Hotel South Beach Finally, Tala Beach at 1 Hotel South Beach is the new, Mediterranean-inspired beach club. The reimagined space boasts daybeds, outdoor bars, and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying cocktails like the Santorini Sunrise.

Amelia’s 1931: Where Latin Meets Asian Cuisine Tucked behind a defunct dry cleaner, Amelia’s 1931 offers a surprising fusion of Latin and Asian cuisines. Chef Eileen Andrade has transformed this space into a retro dining paradise, complete with a speak-easy vibe and a menu that features delights like gochujang paella and arroz con pato.

Tablé by Antonio Bachour: A Pastry Chef’s Parisian Dream Antonio Bachour, celebrated for his pastry skills, has launched Tablé in the Design District. This Parisian-style brasserie blends French and Middle Eastern flavors with dishes like chilled lobster Andalouse and avocado hummus. The ambiance strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Brasserie Laurel: French Elegance at Miami Worldcenter At the base of Miami Worldcenter’s Caoba tower lies Brasserie Laurel, a creation of Ariete Hospitality Group and Michelin-starred chef Michael Beltran. The menu is an ode to French classics, featuring caviar, frog legs, and escargot. The setting complements the exquisite menu, ensuring a sophisticated dining experience.

In Miami, the adage “everything old is new again” rings especially true. These culinary havens, blending classic charm with modern twists, are testaments to the city’s evolving and vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visiting gourmet, these spots are not to be missed on your next Miami adventure.

Erba and Maty’s Miami Named Esquire’s Top Restaurants of 2023

Esquire 2023 Restaurants
Esquire 2023 Restaurants

In the ever-evolving landscape of American dining, a wave of radical authenticity is making its presence felt, bringing a thrilling edge to our culinary experiences. This isn’t just about food; it’s a narrative of chefs daringly sharing their personal stories through their creations. This movement might be an unconscious reaction to the looming shadows of artificial intelligence and virtual realms, or simply a celebration of the human spirit in its purest form. Whatever the catalyst, the result is a dining scene that is raw, vulnerable, occasionally bizarre, but above all, profoundly human.

Consider the whole fish, a dish of ultimate realness that graces the menus of many establishments in the forty-first edition of Esquire’s “Best New Restaurants” guide. This year, real people like Jeff Gordinier, Joshua David Stein, and Omar Mamoon, ventured across the United States, tasting offerings from over two hundred new eateries. Their journey, fueled by passion and discerning palates, led to select fifty exceptional restaurants, each a beacon of culinary brilliance.

Erba Miami

When you step into Erba, you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of grandeur. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a realm where each evening promises an immersive experience in both luxury and warmth. The magic begins with the team led by Chef Niven Patel and his partner Mo Alkassar, whose hospitality is as heartfelt as it is impeccable.

At the core of Erba’s allure is its unique culinary approach: a fusion of Italian tradition with a distinct Florida twist. Imagine the wonders of handmade mafaldine pasta intertwined with the exotic flavors of Bahamian conch. Or consider their tiramisu, which creatively embraces a hint of tres leches, offering a delightful surprise to your taste buds.

However, what truly sets Erba apart is its crudo. Prepared with locally-sourced wahoo and garnished with freshly plucked star fruit from Rancho Patel, Chef Patel’s own farm, the dish is a testament to the restaurant’s deep respect for fresh, local ingredients.

The philosophy of honoring simple ingredients is also vividly reflected in their other venture, Ghee—an Indian restaurant where Patel and Alkassar serve a steamed green millet that transforms a modest ingredient into something utterly sublime.

Erba isn’t just about serving Italian cuisine; it’s about elevating it through simplicity and a profound respect for the ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of Italian food or just someone who appreciates culinary excellence, Erba promises an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. It’s not just a place to dine; it’s a destination to become a regular, where every visit feels like a new journey into the heart of flavor and hospitality.

Maty’s Miami

In the world of upscale dining, small plates featuring raw fish, such as crudos, have become a staple. These dishes, while delightful, often blend into the background of many high-end menus, serving more as an elegant accessory than a standout feature. However, this culinary narrative takes a dramatic turn at Maty’s, where Chef Valerie Chang transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

At Maty’s, the ceviches and tiraditos – a Peruvian specialty where fish is sliced in the style of sashimi and paired with vivid sauces – offer an experience akin to jumping from a 3D movie into a 4D spectacle. Here, the dining becomes an immersive journey, with each flavor and texture creating a vivid, multi-sensory adventure.

Take, for instance, the ocean trout, which embarks on a tropical escapade with the addition of passion fruit, each morsel crowned with thinly sliced gooseberries. Or consider the kanpachi, elegantly arranged with layers of kohlrabi, kiwi berry, and a bright, zesty aji dulce sauce. These dishes don’t just tantalize the taste buds; they transport you to another realm of culinary delight.

While it’s tempting to indulge solely in these aquatic delights, overlooking other menu items would be a misstep. The choclo, a concoction of sweet corn, pecorino, and a spicy Huancaína cheese sauce, rivals the comfort and addiction of the finest mac and cheese. It’s a dish that marries simplicity with sophistication in a way that’s both comforting and novel.

And then there’s the Wagyu oxtail saltado – a dish that redefines luxury. The contrast of crisp potatoes with the rich, buttery oxtail creates a symphony of textures and flavors, elevating the dish to a surreal level of deliciousness.

Maty’s isn’t just about dining; it’s about experiencing a culinary world where every dish is a star, and every bite is a journey. Chef Valerie Chang’s menu invites you not just to taste, but to explore a universe of flavors that are as enchanting as they are exquisite.

True innovation in the kitchen is a gamble, but when it pays off, it’s transformative, filling not just our stomachs but our souls with an indescribable spark. It’s a rare gem, this combination of fulfillment and delight, but it’s a pursuit worth every effort. Let this be your map to a culinary adventure that celebrates not just food, but the essence of what it means to be authentically, wonderfully human.

Top 5 Restaurants to Celebrate Halloween in Miami

BÂOLI Entryway

Miami is a city renowned for its vibrant culture and culinary offerings, and during the Halloween season, it takes on a captivating allure. With Miami Condo Investments as your culinary tour guide, here is a list of the top 5 Halloween dining experiences in Miami. From eerie restaurants with spine-chilling atmospheres to eateries that serve up devilishly delicious dishes, we will navigate you through Miami’s most intriguing dining destinations, ensuring an enchanting feast for your taste buds.

Whether you are a local looking to enhance your Halloween dining experience or a traveler eager to explore Miami’s gastronomic delights, this guide will lead you to the city’s most tantalizing Halloween dining experiences. Prepare to immerse yourself in the spooky ambiance and embark on a culinary journey unlike any other as we unveil Miami’s top Halloween dining spots.

The Queen Mezanine

Queen Miami Beach

Queen Miami Beach is introducing its first-ever Halloween event called “Royal Anarchy: A Tale of Twisted Beasts.” This event promises an evening of eerie elegance and spine-tingling revelry, featuring unforgettable performances. The Halloween celebration at Queen Miami Beach will showcase ethereal aerialists suspended from the ceiling on silken threads, enigmatic dance ensembles, and acrobatic performers dressed in ornate costumes inspired by twisted beasts and mystical creatures. From the moment guests arrive, they can expect to be captivated by this enthralling experience. Additionally, a specially curated menu will be available throughout the evening for diners to indulge in decadent culinary delights. The event will take place at the iconic Paris Theater, ensuring a night of glamour and glory. Reservations are required and can be made at Queen Miami Beach. The venue is located at 550 Washington Ave, Miami Beach.

MILA MM Club Miami

Mila Miami

On Saturday, October 28th, MILA Lounge and MILA MM invite you to their ‘Haunted Shipwreck‘ Halloween event. As attendees delve into this eerie underwater world, they’ll encounter dancing shadows and moonlit treasures hidden beneath the waves. The shipwreck is not just a resting place for ancient artifacts but also holds an untold, chilling story. Guests are encouraged to wear their spookiest sea-themed costumes, transforming into phantoms of the deep. Mila is located at 1636 Meridian Ave, Rooftop, Miami Beach, FL 33139 and you can make reservations here.

BÂOLI Entryway

BÂOLI

On Friday, October 27th, BÂOLI is hosting a captivating Halloween event themed ‘Enchanted Forest.’ Dive into a night filled with magic and wonder, where attendees can discover hidden mysteries and decipher enchanting spells. However, within the ‘Enchanted Forest,’ appearances can be deceiving, with secrets lurking in every corner. Guests are encouraged to don costumes that embody the forest’s mystical creatures, enhancing the immersive experience. This evening promises a transformative adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. For reservations, click here.

Sexy Fish Miami

Sexy Fish Miami

Sexy Fish Miami is celebrating Halloween with a special “Spooky Ever After” dessert platter. Available for $95 from Thursday, October 26, to Wednesday, October 31, this limited-time offering features a range of festive treats. Highlights include pumpkin spice doughnuts, a skull-shaped chocolate and strawberry parfait, and candy-flavored sorbet. It’s a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth and get into the Halloween spirit at Sexy Fish Miami. To reserve your table, visit SexyFish.

Café La Trova Miami Best Bar in the World

Café La Trova

The 305 ’80s Bar at Café La Trova is gearing up for a special Addams Family-themed dance party during the Halloween weekend. This event will kick off at midnight and run until closing time. Attendees can look forward to dance contests, with prizes up for grabs. If you’re planning to attend, it might be a good idea to practice the iconic Wednesday Addams dance routine in advance! Café La Trova is located at 971 SW 8th Street,
Miami, FL 33130. For reservations, click here.

Ken Fulk Designed Casadonna Restaurant Set to Open in Edgewater this Weekend

Casadonna in Edgewater
Casadonna in Edgewater

In the heart of Miami’s Edgewater district, overlooking the pristine waters of Biscayne Bay, a new luxury dining experience is set to emerge. Casadonna, a collaboration between the renowned Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality, is poised to redefine waterfront dining in Miami. Designed by the illustrious Ken Fulk, this 20,000-square-foot establishment, opening on October 26, promises an ambiance of opulence and a menu inspired by Italy’s coastal culinary treasures.

With the capacity to host 366 discerning guests, Casadonna offers a Riviera-esque dining experience. As the sun sets, the azure waters of Biscayne Bay and the iconic Miami Beach skyline serve as a mesmerizing backdrop. The menu, a blend of locally sourced and imported Italian ingredients, boasts signature dishes like Crispy Young Artichoke, Royal Dorade Aqua Pazza, and Bistecca Fiorentina. Handcrafted pasta and a lavish crudo bar, featuring delicacies like Langoustine Ceviche and Tuna Carpaccio, further elevate the dining experience. Complementing the culinary offerings are bespoke cocktails and a meticulously curated wine collection, encapsulating the essence of the Italian seaside.

David Grutman, the visionary behind Groot Hospitality, remarks, “Casadonna is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Our collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality aims to offer an unparalleled dining experience, blending authentic Italian flavors with Miami’s vibrant energy.”

Noah Tepperberg, Co-CEO of Tao Group Hospitality, shares the enthusiasm, “Our debut in Miami, in partnership with Groot Hospitality, is a significant milestone. We’re confident that Casadonna will soon be a staple in Miami’s elite dining circuit.”

Nestled within the historic Miami Women’s Club building, Casadonna pays tribute to its roots. The name, a fusion of the Italian words “casa” (home) and “donna” (woman), honors the legacy of the Miami Women’s Club, a beacon of community service and activism since 1900. Among its many accolades, the club played a pivotal role in the inception of what is now the Everglades National Park.

Ken Fulk, the design maestro, has seamlessly integrated the building’s rich history with modern luxury. From the Courtyard Bar, reminiscent of a secret garden, to the Loggia Dining Room with its intricate millwork and custom chandeliers, every corner of Casadonna promises a sensory delight. As patrons traverse the establishment, the allure of Biscayne Bay becomes increasingly captivating.

For those seeking an evening of elegance or a weekend brunch with unparalleled views, Casadonna opens its doors on Thursday, October 26th, with brunch services commencing on Saturday, November 11th, 2023.

Erba: A Culinary Ode to Italian Classics with a Miami Twist

Erba Italian Eatery in Coral Gables

Straight from the bustling corridors of Wall Street, where investment strategies and market trends dominate conversations, Chef Niven Patel introduces a refreshing narrative with his latest venture, Erba, in Coral Gables. This Italian culinary haven, while rooted in tradition, is infused with the vibrant essence of South Florida.

Gone are the conventional clams in your linguine al vongole, replaced by the rich flavors of braised Bahamian conch. The menu subtly nods to Miami with hearts of palm taking the place of artichokes and the rotolo pasta boasting calabaza squash.

The heirloom tomato dish, a staple in many Italian eateries, at Erba surprises with smoked grouper tonnato instead of the expected tuna. Even the beloved tiramisu undergoes a transformation, with espresso and rum paying homage to Miami’s Latin heritage.

Strategically positioned in Coral Gables at 227 South Dixie Highway, Erba is a stone’s throw away from Patel’s other masterpieces: the Michelin-acknowledged Orno and the exotic Mamey, both nestled within the luxurious confines of the Thesis Hotel. Erba, a collaboration between Patel and Mohamed Alkassar of the Alpareno Restaurant Group, promises a gastronomic journey spotlighting local treasures.

Chef Patel, a James Beard nominee and recognized as one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs in 2020, is renowned for his commitment to sourcing ingredients from his own farm, Rancho Patel. The creation of Erba’s menu, however, took a different approach. Instead of starting with a dish in mind, Patel and his team began with ingredients, crafting dishes around them, resulting in a truly distinctive menu.

The offerings at Erba span from the depths of the ocean to the richness of the land. Classic dishes are reimagined with Patel’s innovative touch, such as the Mishima Reserve Denver steak paired with a tantalizing bone marrow salsa verde. The menu is dynamic, changing with the seasons, ensuring the freshest ingredients grace your plate.

Even the cocktail offerings, curated in partnership with mixologist Scott Beattie of the Michelin-starred Barndiva, showcase the best of Rancho Patel, with concoctions like the Butterfly, a blend of Rancho Patel pea flowers, yuzu, and pickled huckleberries.

While Coral Gables continues to establish itself as a gastronomic paradise, Alkassar is confident in Erba’s unique position. He believes the community values quality, authenticity, and genuine hospitality – principles that Erba embodies to its core.

Niu Wine Miami Named One of the Best Bars in America for 2023

Niu Wine in Downtown Miami
Niu Wine in Downtown Miami

One of the top bars in the nation, according to Esquire magazine’s annual top Bars in America for 2023, is a small, intimate wine bar in downtown Miami with seven tables, two bar stools, a tiny bit of outdoor space, and some of the most intriguing natural wine you’ll find in Miami.

Consider Niu Wine an extension of Niu Kitchen, a bustling tapas restaurant and wine bar located a few doors down on Second Avenue. One of the Catalan restaurant’s proprietors, Karina Iglesias, promotes natural wine, a movement that advocates organic grapes and approaches agriculture ethically, as one of Miami’s earliest proponents.

According to the Esquire editor, “Niu Wine is a place I find myself wanting to visit more than any other in Miami at the moment. Warm, tiny, confident, its walls are lined with bottles that reflect an understanding of good wine-making and the pleasures it can bring.”

However, you don’t need to be an expert to have fun at Niu Wine. Wines by the glass are frequently changed, so check the chalkboard and discuss your preferences with the staff. They can suggest a wine for you to take home or consume at the bar. It might even be a Californian mass-produced liquid butter bomb called chardonnay, the white nectar of the gods that has a poor reputation.

A modest, regularly updated tapas menu is also offered at Niu Wine; if it’s available, Esquire suggests the thinly sliced, melting Iberico ham on a warm platter. Anchoa del Cantabrico (anchovies), tomato salad, oysters, patatas bravas, and charcuterie plates are typical small plates. However, the wine steals the show. All-natural wines from South America, Europe, and even eastern Europe are the main focus of Niu Wine.

Niu Wine is located at 134 NE Second Avenue in downtown Miami and ope Tuesday through Saturday.

Food & Wine Magazine Name Niven Patel’s Mamey in Coral Gables as the Editor’s Pick for Best Restaurant Ambiance

Mamey at the Thesis Hotel at Coral Gables
Mamey at the Thesis Hotel at Coral Gables

Miami is one of the top food cities in the nation, according to Food & Wine readers, which is no surprise that Miami was selected as one of the top 10 culinary cities in the United States in Culinary & Wine’s first Global Tastemaker Awards, which asked readers about their favorite eateries, pubs, cities, hotels, and other establishments.

The magazine’s May issue also includes a section on the outcomes. Miami was ranked eighth, ahead of Austin and San Diego.

One Miami eatery caught the editors’ attention: Niven Patel’s Mamey at the Thesis Hotel in Coral Gables was chosen as the editors’ pick for the nation’s top eateries for ambiance. The restaurant’s “food and decor both give you the impression that you’re in a lush, tropical paradise,” according to the magazine.

At this Coral Gables hotspot, Patel creates recipes using products from his own ranch that are influenced by his travels throughout Asia, Polynesia, and the Caribbean. Inside the meticulously planned interior, painted botanicals cover the walls and foliage seems to sprout up on every surface. Warm, ambient lighting and plants that dangle from the ceiling combine to give the impression that you are outside while maintaining a cozy ambiance.

Mamey is located 1350 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables at the Thesis Hotel Miami. To make a reservation to see what the hype is about, click here.

Our Pick for Miami’s Most Romantic Valentine’s Restaurants 2023

Best Restaurants in Miami for Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is next week and if you haven’t made plans yet, now’s the time. Whether you want to impress a romantic interest for the first time or finally confess your feelings, Miami has a restaurant — and special Valentine’s Day menu — to match your intentions on the most romantic holiday of the year.

Here are our top restaurants to visit in Miami on Valentine’s Day, ranging from lounge-like restaurants to waterfront dining establishments. Reservations are highly advised.

Carbone

Carbone’s retro glam and universally acclaimed Italian-American cuisine have made their way to Miami. If you get a table, you can expect one of the best veal parmesans in the world, dapper servers who can practically read minds, and tons of vibe in a legendary Ken Fulk-designed space. To make reservations, click here.

The Queen Miami Beach

Tucked inside the meticulously restored Paris Theater on Washington Avenue in South Beach, Queen breathes new life into the storied Art Deco landmark, embodying a wildly lavish and extravagant 21st-century Japanese-style grill that pays homage to its history of opulence and theatricality. Click here for reservations.

Contessa Ristorante Miami

Contessa, a glamorous dining destination by Major Food Group that transports guests to Lake Como, is inspired by the old-world sophistication of Northern Italy’s iconic resorts and estates. Antipasti include a Carpaccio of Chianina Beef and the most coveted Italian prosciutto; signature pizzas and perfectly crafted pastas such as Tortellini en Brodo and Garganelli Verdi Bolognese; and celebratory secondi that highlight the world’s best meat, poultry, and fish. For reservations, click here.

COTE Miami

COTE is Simon Kim’s vision for the Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-nominated KOREAN STEAKHOUSETM. The restaurant is known for combining the excitement and fervor of Korean barbeque with the hallmarks of a classic, regal American steakhouse. The end result is a one-of-a-kind and convivial environment that infuses a fine dining experience with world-class ingredients and service, complemented by a show-stopping beverage program. Click here to reserve a table.

Klaw

Klaw provides a beef and king crab selection that focuses on raw product preservation, sustainability, and environmental concerns. Executive Chef Michael Paley and his team carefully select the best suppliers and believe that treating the product with respect and cooking it properly can greatly enhance the flavor. Martin Brudnizki Design Studio created our main dining room, which honors its Spanish Renaissance roots with a large dining room decorated in deep colors and dark woods, massive colonial arched windows, a private dining room, and a theater kitchen. The roof top bar has an amazing view and a great selection of cocktails created by beverage manager James Macinnes. We are close to the Opera Tower, Margaret Pace Park, and the DoubleTree by Hilton.

Avra Estiatorio

You’d almost think you were in the Greek islands, with the salt stone sculptures and bougainvillea-filled pergola, not to mention the sound of crashing waves in the background. This New York mainstay is large, opulent, and glam, with a menu full of seafood specialties that transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite. For more information or reservations, click here.]

Komodo Miami

Komodo is a three-story indoor/outdoor eatery and lounge in Miami’s booming Brickell neighborhood that combines contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine with a South Florida vibe to elevate the dining and nightlife experience. Signature dishes on the menu include Peking Duck, Tuna & Toro Roll, and Lobster Dynamite. The 300-seat restaurant and lounge features several unique multi-level dining options, including three bars with handcrafted cocktail menus and the signature outdoor floating “birds nests” seating, which creates a playful treehouse feel perfect for any occasion day or night. Komodo serves dinner seven days a week. Reservations can be made here.

Award Winning and “America’s Favorite Chef” Thomas Keller is Opening a New Bistro in Coral Gables.

Chef Thomas Keller Opens Coral Gables Restaurant
Chef Thomas Keller Opens Coral Gables Restaurant

Bouchon Bistro, the acclaimed French restaurant owned by Chef Thomas Keller, will debut in Coral Gables in the early months of 2023, according to the chef and his staff. Along with his upscale American eatery the Surf Club Restaurant in Surfside, it will be his second restaurant in Miami.

The French Laundry, Per Se, and the freshly starred Surf Club Restaurant are all three-star Michelin restaurants owned by the renowned chef. Chef de cuisine Thomas Castellon, a former employee of Keller’s the Surf Club Restaurant and TAK Room, will take over the kitchen at Buchon’s Miami branch.

Similar to the menus at the Bouchon restaurants in Yountville and Las Vegas, the menu in Miami will feature seasonal French cuisine in addition to traditional selections like steak frites, roast chicken, mussels, and escargot.

Around 160 people will be able to dine at Bouchon Coral Gables, which also has 30 outside seats and a separate private dining area. Longtime Bouchon colleague Adam D. Tihany of Tihany Design in New York City, who created both Bouchon locations, will design the area.

The restaurant will open in the La Palma building, a historic Mediterranean-style structure constructed in 1924 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, at 2101 Galiano Street in Coral Gables. The building was originally designed by architect H. George Fink.

According to Keller, “Since opening the Surf Club Restaurant four years ago, it has been a great privilege to re-establish relationships in South Florida. We were enamored with the rich history of the La Palma building and Coral Gables neighborhood and we look forward to introducing our classic French bistro to the community.”