Tag Archives: Restaurant opening

Tulum Rooftop Bar & Grill W Miami

A Taste of Tulum’s Coastal Charm in Miami

Tulum Rooftop Bar & Grill W Miami

Imagine soaking in the sun-kissed views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline while indulging in delectable dishes inspired by the coastal charm of Tulum, Mexico. This is the experience awaiting you at Tulum restaurant, where earthy tones, lush greenery, and bohemian rattan seating set the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.

Step into Tulum, and you’ll instantly be transported to the sandy shores of Mexico’s beloved beach town. The restaurant’s organic aesthetic, with its wooden accents and floor-to-ceiling windows, creates a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Whether you’re seated indoors or on the outdoor patio overlooking the water, every angle offers a picturesque backdrop for your dining experience.

But it’s not just the ambiance that captures the essence of Tulum; it’s the menu itself. From breakfast delights like the “Latin Avocado Toast” to lunchtime favorites such as the “Tulum Beast Burger,” each dish is a culinary celebration of international flavors with a Latin American twist. And let’s not forget about the herbed-brined jumbo wings, a perfect accompaniment to any meal, especially when paired with one of Tulum Rooftop’s signature cocktails.

Behind every dish at Tulum Rooftop lies a story waiting to be savored. General Manager Kashmira Maneckji describes it as “a groundbreaking new restaurant concept showcasing the vibrant tapestry of new modern-American cuisine.” With an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence, Tulum invites guests to embark on a food and beverage odyssey where each bite narrates its own captivating tale.

Tulum is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Currently open for breakfast and lunch, with brunch and happy hour on the horizon, there’s no shortage of opportunities to savor the flavors of Tulum. And stay tuned for the launch of the dinner menu this fall, promising even more culinary delights to delight your palate.

So, whether you’re a Miami local looking for your next culinary adventure or a visitor seeking a taste of Mexico’s coastal charm, Tulum Rooftop Restaurant & Bar invites you to elevate your dining experience in every sense of the word.

Habibi Miami Concept Photo

French Moroccan Supper Club to Open in Miami in Late Summer 2024-Habibi Miami

Habibi Miami Concept Photo
Photo Credit: Habibi Miami

In a city known for its vibrant culture and eclectic culinary scene, a new player is set to make waves on the Miami River come late summer. Habibi Miami, a sumptuous French Moroccan supper club, is the brainchild of hospitality mogul Roman Jones, who has enlisted Ikam Rebaia to lead the project, with Aris Nanos orchestrating operations. Together, they’re crafting an oasis that promises to transport guests to the enchanting shores of the French Moroccan Riviera, offering tantalizing bites, handcrafted cocktails, and an ambiance straight out of a Wes Anderson fever dream.

Drawing inspiration from the intricate beauty of Moorish architecture, Habibi Miami promises to be a visual spectacle, a veritable immersion into the rich tapestry of Maghrebi culture. Under the guidance of Creative Director Mark Lehmkuhl from Ghosthouse Design Group and Love Lake Studios, the venue will be transformed into a whimsical retro retreat, with hues of pink and teal reminiscent of a bygone Tangier era. Set within a tent-like structure reminiscent of opulent riads, Habibi Miami invites patrons on a sensory journey, evoking the vibrant spirit and timeless traditions of French Morocco.

From the moment guests step onto the 30-foot-long red carpet entrance adorned with Alhambra design elements, they’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of opulence. Inside, crystal chandeliers, Turkish rugs, velvet booths, and silk draperies set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. With a seating capacity of 200, the restaurant will also boast an outdoor patio for sunset soirées, alongside a bar adorned with hookahs offering bespoke tableside hookah service. And to elevate the evening, nightly performances by belly dancers, contortionists, and percussionists will transform the space into a captivating theater of nightlife.

The menu encompasses a variety of tasty continental and Middle Eastern shareable dishes like Merguez Pigs in a Blanket, Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Charred Wild Mushrooms, and Lemon Roasted Chicken with Herbed Yogurt. Comfort food lovers will rejoice at Wagyu Burger Sliders and Miso-Honey Glazed Sea Bass Skewers, while sushi aficionados will find delight in the selection of rolls. Tableside dessert carts will offer indulgent treats like ice cream with Turkish mastic and Halva cheesecake.

Drawing from North African and Mediterranean influences, the bar team will showcase exotic ingredients and innovative techniques, such as fat washing – the process of toasting seeds to pull out their oils and infusing them in spirits overnight – to craft signature cocktails like the “Ali” Fashioned and the Moroccan Margarita—a perfect complement to the eclectic menu.

Habibi Miami is slated to open its doors in the summer of 2024, and is located at 452 Northwest North River Drive, Miami, FL. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to be whisked away to the French Moroccan Riviera right in the heart of Miami.

La Màrtola in Miami

Celebrating Coastal Cuisine: A Taste of La Màrtola in Miami

La Màrtola in Miami

Miami’s culinary scene is about to get a taste of coastal elegance with the arrival of La Màrtola, a new restaurant nestled in the vibrant Buena Vista neighborhood. While it may not be a waterfront establishment, La Màrtola’s essence lies in celebrating the rich flavors of the Italian, French, and Spanish Rivieras. Spearheaded by New York food and beverage entrepreneur Paolo Domeneghetti and the esteemed Martino de Rosa, owner of Italy’s renowned La Filiale pizzeria in Erbusco, La Màrtola promises an unforgettable journey through coastal cuisine.

At the heart of La Màrtola’s concept is the fusion of tradition and innovation, bringing classic coastal fare to life with a contemporary twist. The menu is a symphony of flavors, featuring wood-fired or grilled meats, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables sourced from local markets. Each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the simplicity and quality of traditional recipes while embracing innovative techniques.

Begin your culinary adventure with tantalizing starters that set the stage for the feast to come. Indulge in delicacies such as oysters, orata crudo, and bluefin akami tuna tartare infused with gin, grapefruit, and orange. For those craving bold flavors, the lobster salad or paleta Iberica with chips offer a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

As you explore the main course offerings, savor succulent options like grilled lamb, turbot, rotisserie chicken, and the iconic bistecca Fiorentina. La Màrtola’s house specialties, including olive ascolane, fried cremini mushrooms, and heirloom tomatoes, provide a tantalizing glimpse into the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.

No coastal culinary journey would be complete without indulging in the comforting embrace of pasta and pizza. La Màrtola delights pasta enthusiasts with classics like tagliolini al limone and bucatini guanciale, expertly prepared to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

For pizza aficionados, La Màrtola offers Neapolitan-style pies baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. From the decadent Carbonera featuring pecorino romano fondue, guanciale, and fried zucchini flower to the aromatic Vesuvio with smoked scamorza cheese, San Marzano tomatoes, and sausage, each bite is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to culinary craftsmanship.

Step into La Màrtola’s white European-style dining room and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of timeless elegance. While the ambiance may not resemble a typical pizza joint, every corner exudes warmth and sophistication, inviting guests to savor the moment and indulge in the art of fine dining.

Paolo Domeneghetti encapsulates La Màrtola’s ethos perfectly, stating, “We highlight the simplicity and quality of classics, blending tradition and innovation to create a space that inspires the art of savoring life.” With each dish meticulously crafted to perfection, La Màrtola invites diners on a culinary voyage along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.

As Miami’s newest culinary gem, La Màrtola promises an unforgettable dining experience where every bite tells a story of coastal charm and culinary mastery. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening for two or a memorable gathering with friends and family, La Màrtola invites you to indulge in the flavors of the Rivieras right in the heart of Miami.

Miami Romantic Hotels

Two Miami Hotels Named Most Romantic in the United States Just in Time For Valentine’s Day

Miami Romantic Hotels

In the realm of romance and luxury, South Florida emerges as a premier destination, boasting two of the nation’s top romantic getaways. As Valentine’s Day approaches, or for any special occasion throughout the year, these exquisite hotels offer unparalleled experiences. Let’s explore these gems as highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler.

1. 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami Beach: A Holistic Retreat Nestled in Miami Beach, 1 Hotel South Beach stands out as a holistic haven, blending luxury with an eco-conscious ethos. Condé Nast Traveler applauds its unique approach, describing it as a “holistic retox-detox Miami fantasy.” The hotel’s crowning glory is its rooftop swimming pool, the largest in Miami Beach, offering breathtaking ocean views. Guests can also enjoy the serenity of ocean-view balconies and take pride in the hotel’s commitment to 100% carbon neutrality. Adding to its allure is Tala Beach, an outdoor bar, restaurant, and beach club, open from Thursday to Sunday.

2. W South Beach, Miami Beach: Artistic Elegance Following a $30 million renovation in 2020, the W South Beach redefines luxury. Distancing itself from the typical W brand, this hotel boasts a multi-million dollar art collection in its lobby and offers an array of activities including yoga, high-interval training, and cocktail-making classes. The W’s Away Spa and the tropical outdoor bar, Irma’s, are perfect for indulging in relaxation and enjoying sunset cocktails.

Miami’s luxury hotels offer more than just a stay; they provide an experience that intertwines romance, luxury, and unique charm. Whether it’s the holistic allure of 1 Hotel South Beach or the artistic elegance of W South Beach, these destinations promise an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Osmio Lounge Miami

Tropical Oasis Transplanted: Osmio Lounge Brings Tulum to Wynwood

Osmio Lounge Miami

Miami’s nightlife scene is constantly evolving, offering a diverse range of experiences for locals and tourists alike. From Tulum-inspired beach clubs to rooftop bars with stunning views, the Magic City has it all. But now, there’s a newcomer on the block that’s not just inspired by Tulum – it’s a direct transplant from the tropical oasis itself.

Osmio Lounge has bid farewell to its Tulum roots and made its grand entrance in the vibrant neighborhood of Wynwood. This mystical-themed cocktail lounge, founded by the visionary mixologist Brian Diaz, promises an enchanting experience unlike any other in Miami.

Osmio Lounge brings a slice of Tulum’s magic to Wynwood, and it’s not just about the ambiance. This hotspot offers live DJs, a tantalizing tapas menu, a hookah lounge, private rooms for an intimate escape, and even a boutique to add a touch of luxury to your evening.

Brian Diaz, the creative genius behind Osmio Lounge, initially crafted this concept in Tulum with a dream of extending this one-of-a-kind experience to the dynamic city of Miami. To make this dream a reality, he joined forces with the Miami-based hospitality group, Dirty Rabbit Group, renowned for concepts like the Dirty Rabbit.

While Osmio Lounge mirrors the ethereal vibes of Tulum, it brings a unique Miami twist to the table. The emphasis here is not just on recreating the ambiance but on perfecting craft cocktails and capturing the electric energy of Miami.

Osmio Lounge’s claim to fame lies in its carefully crafted cocktails that transport patrons to a world of taste and sensation. Brian Diaz’s signature style shines through every concoction, promising a memorable journey for your taste buds.

Some of the standout signature cocktails include the “Death by Tequila,” described as a daring infusion of select roots and herbs. Then there’s the “Esmeralda,” a delightful blend of Monkey Shoulder whiskey, fresh plum, hibiscus tea, Secret Element sea moss, and house bitters. And let’s not forget about “Jungle Vibes,” “Sexy Pleasure,” and “Tropical Healing” – each with its unique flavor profile.

To complement the exquisite cocktails, Osmio Lounge offers a delectable food menu featuring tapas that will tantalize your palate. From classic guacamole and chips to cheese tequeños, and yes, the classic Miami favorite, ham croquetas – there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Beyond the vibrant main area with live DJ sets and the inviting hookah lounge, Osmio Lounge takes your experience to the next level with private rooms. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or an intimate gathering with friends, these private spaces elevate your night.

And don’t forget to explore the boutique within the establishment, where curated items add a touch of luxury to the overall ambiance. It’s the perfect opportunity to take a piece of the Osmio Lounge experience home with you.

With mystical elements, signature cocktails, tantalizing tapas, and an ambiance like no other, Osmio Lounge promises an unforgettable night in the heart of Miami’s artistic hub. Come and experience the tropical oasis in Wynwood – your next adventure awaits at Osmio Lounge.

Casadonna in Edgewater

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

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.

Peruvian Restaurant in Miami

Bon Appétit Names Peruvian Restaurant in Miami Top Best New Restaurants in the Country

Peruvian Restaurant in Miami

The 24 Best New Restaurants of 2023 have been published by Bon Appétit, and Maty’s in Midtown is the only establishment in Florida to make the list. The well-liked Peruvian-Japanese Itamae inside a Design District food hall was founded by Chef Valerie Chang, her brother Nando, and her father Fernando in 2018.

It bears the name of Chang’s grandmother as a culinary tribute to the value of family, which has always been a guiding principle for the Changs.

According to Kate Kassin of Bon Appétit, “Miami chef Valerie Chang is getting personal.” “She wanted to make a place where she could celebrate the culinary customs of Peru in memory of her grandmother Maty. Chang is the driving force behind this new endeavor, dishing up warm and hearty meals like the fluffy tortitas de maiz and a vivid cebiche mixto with black grouper and crisp calamari. A complete roasted dorade sits beautiful on an ode-worthy aj amarillo beurre blanc, while a fried snapper arrives wrapped dramatically around fish nuggets dusted with cornmeal.”

A gallery of family pictures and heirlooms are displayed on the walls of the stylish, spacious dining area. Therefore, Maty’s is very much a family business even though Chang’s idea may have inspired its creation. Food & Wine has named Val and Nando Chang as some of the “Best New Chefs in America 2023.”

For the Chang family, this is a busy moment to make the announcement. Val and Nando Chang visited New York earlier this week to celebrate being listed by Food & Wine as one of the country’s best chefs. Itamae, a freestanding restaurant that first opened in 2020, closed last month and was replaced by Fernando Chang’s B-Side, a fast-casual sushi restaurant owned by the Chang family.

By the end of the year, Itamae Ao, a new Itamae, will reopen in Midtown as an omakase experience next to Maty’s. Itamae was mentioned by Bon Appétit earlier this year as one of the factors in Miami’s selection as the “food city of the year.”

Mary’s is located at 3255 NE First Ave., Miami with hours ranging from 4-10 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday and Sunday and 4-11pm Friday through Saturday.

Miami Worldcenter Land Purchased for $30 Million

New Restaurants to Open at Miami Worldcenter in 2024

Miami Worldcenter

The long list of tenants at Miami Worldcenter, a $6 billion, 27-acre mixed-use complex remaking the center of Downtown Miami, will grow by four national food and beverage concepts.

A dual-concept location for BurgerFi and Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings has been signed by the development’s ownership group, as well as leases with Serafina, an internationally renowned Italian restaurant group founded in New York City; Sixty Vines, a sustainable restaurant with an exciting wine-on-tap program and food inspired by vineyards.

The development’s exceptional lineup of recently opened food and beverage outlets, which already includes three concepts from Michelin-starred Chef Michael Beltran of Ariete Hospitality Group’s Brasserie Laurel, Chug’s Express, and El Vecino Cigar & Cocktail Bar, as well as two more eateries anticipated to open soon, Earls Kitchen & Bar and Chicago’s Maple & Ash, will be strengthened by the development’s newest restaurants, which are anticipated to open in 2024.

The 300,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space at Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest privately owned and developed urban real estate developments in Florida, complement the diverse mix of residential, commercial, and hospitality uses that it offers. Approximately 84% of the retail space in the property is leased. In collaboration with CIM Group, Miami Worldcenter is being built by master developers Miami Worldcenter Associates, headed by Managing Partners Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani.

Ten city blocks make up Miami Worldcenter, which is next to Museum Park, home to the Frost Museum of Science and Pérez Art Museum Miami, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, and Wolfson Campus of Miami Dade College. Miami Worldcenter is the largest and best-connected transit-oriented development in Florida thanks to its proximity to Brightline’s MiamiCentral station, which provides direct train service to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando and access to Tri-Rail, the Metromover, and the Metrorail.

The Ritz-Carlton South Beach

New Mediterranean Restaurant to Open at Ritz Carlton South Beach

The Ritz-Carlton South Beach

José Andrés, a chef and the creator of World Central Kitchen, is coming back to Miami Beach; his restaurant group intends to open a new eatery at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, Zaytinaya.

The Bazaar by José Andrés, the only restaurant Andrés owned in Miami Beach, closed earlier this year at the SLS South Beach hotel. Elcielo, the eatery owned by Colombian chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, has taken its spot. In 2022, Elcielo in Brickell was awarded a Michelin star. The Ritz Carlton’s old Fuego y Mar property will house Zaytinya’s third restaurant; the previous two locations debuted in Washington, D.C., in 2002, and New York, in 2022.

All food and beverage operations for the opulent hotel, a Forbes Four-Star establishment at 1 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, including the restaurants, lobby bar, Ritz Club lounge, and in-room dining, will be taken over by The José Andrés Group. Fuego y Mar Mediterranean restaurant’s present location will be taken up by the new Zaytinya restaurant.

The name is Turkish for “olive oil,” which is appropriate: Lebanese, Greek, and Turkish cuisines are reflected in the menu. The firm hopes to launch Zaytinya by the end of 2023 but hasn’t provided any information regarding the menu or a timeline for Fuego y Mar’s closure.

This week, the organization will begin hiring employees at the restaurant. In the United States, the Bahamas, and the United Arab Emirates, the José Andrés Group has more than 30 eateries.