Every new year brings new surprises, and we’ve rounded up ten that foodies will love. From an intimate soon-to-launch omakase counter in Wynwood to a tiny Greek taverna in Coconut Grove, these new Miami restaurants prove the city’s dining scene is on the up and up.
Osaka Nikkei
With successful restaurants across South America, Osaka Nikkei made its U.S. debut on the first floor of Brickell House last month. Helmed by owners Diego de la Puente and Diego Herrera, the concept began in Peru as a weekly pop-up and has since spread to cities including Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Quito, and Bogota. The menu at the new Brickell restaurant will include location-exclusive dishes, plus some of Osaka’s signature creations — not to mention a world-class mixology program.
Osaka Nikkei Miami is located at 1300 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami
osakanikkei.com/es/
Thatch Miami
This newcomer to the Midtown Miami scene specializes in 100% plant-based dishes made with organic ingredients. You’ll find all kinds of good-for-you (and delicious) dishes here, like shareable Foccacia, Hummus with Za’atar, and Thatch Mac and Cheese, plus entrees that range from artisan pizzas and salads to heartier fare — the Coconut Thom Kha “ramen” is a fave. If you’re into wine, Thatch offers a great list of natural whites, reds, roses and skin contact vintages.
Thatch Miami is located at 3255 NE 1st Avenue, Miami
www.thatchmiami.com
Nativo Kitchen & Bar
This new dining room on the 25th floor of Conrad Miami also debuted in December and has been making waves ever since. Executive Chef Pablo Lamon (you might recognize him from Bravo’s Top Chef season 16) spotlights Miami-inspired cuisine here, elevating breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a Latin American twist. Happy hour takes place daily at the restaurant’s gorgeous new lounge, inviting guests to pair delicious drinks with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay.
Nativo Kitchen & Bar is located at 1395 Brickell Avenue, Miami
https://conradhotels3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/conrad-miami-MIACICI/amenities/restaurants.html
INTI.MO by Juan Chipoco
Celebrated Peruvian chef (and owner of CVI.CHE 105 and Pollos y Jarras) Juan Chipoco recently debuted his latest concept, INTI.MO, in South Beach. Feeding the city’s love for Peruvian Nikkei cuisine, the new restaurant focuses on fresh, flavorful fare that leaves guests “feeling light but satisfied.” The dining experience always starts with a complimentary cup of fish broth to cleanse the palate, and special consideration is given to preparing the perfect wine and cocktail pairings to go with each dish.
INTI.MO is located at 840 1st Street, Miami Beach
https://www.inti-mo.com/
Little Hen
Offering guests a taste of England right here in Midtown, the recently opened Little Hen blends European-inspired design with updated classic breakfast and lunch dishes by Executive Chef Rafael Velazquez. There’s a stellar cocktail program, too, for those who like their brunch boozy — plus artisanal coffee, fresh-pressed juice, and a great selection of wines.
Little Hen is located at 3451 NE 1st Avenue, Miami
MILA
Gregory and Marine Galy will open MILA on Lincoln Road on January 24. Encompassing 5,000 square feet of breathtaking rooftop space, the new spot will serve “MediterrAsian” cuisine by Executive Chef Nicolas Mazier. MILA will also feature an extensive spirits program by acclaimed mixologist Jennifer Le Nechet and Mido Yahi, served across two bars.
MILA will be located at 800 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach
Meraki
Fans of this downtown Miami gem will be thrilled to know managing partner Alex Karavias and Executive Chef Giannis Kotsos have brought their standout Greek concept to the heart of Coconut Grove. Done up in a clean, summery palette of bright white and cool Aegean blue, the new location also offers outdoor terrace seating that’s perfect for enjoying a chilled glass of Assyrtiko.
Meraki Coconut Grove is located at 142 SE 1st Avenue, Miami
Bulla Gastrobar
Miami mainstay Bulla Gastrobar will bring its beloved Spanish tapas and dishes to The Falls in late February or early March of 2020. The new restaurant will be the brand’s third location in South Florida after successful openings in Coral Gables and Doral.
The new Bulla Gastrobar will be located at 8888 SW 136th St, Miami
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants
On January 27, the award-winning Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant will open a new location at Dania Pointe in Dania Beach, marking its 11th outpost in Florida and its 4th in Broward County. Guests can look forward to a menu of modern-American fare with globally-inspired flavors, plus options for the perfect wine pairing.
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is located at 1822 Pointe Blvd, Dania Beach
Hiyakawa
Say “Konnichiwa” to Miami’s newest go-to for authentic Japanese food — Hiyakawa, opening in Wynwood this month. The brainchild of Wabi Sabi’s Chef Shuji Hiyakawa and restaurateur/art dealer Alvaro Perez Miranda (who launched the Vagabond Restaurant & Bar), this new Wynwood hideaway will serve guests in an intimate 28-seat setting. Foodies can also get excited about a $100-per-person omakase menu — one of the best omakase deals in the city.
Hiyakawa will be located at 2700 North Miami Avenue, Miami
Pink Taco
All the way from Los Angeles, Mexican eatery Pink Taco has landed in South Beach. Blending made-from-scratch Mexican fare with a fun, lively atmosphere, this highly anticipated taco shop will open the doors to the public January 14 on Ocean Drive. Menu items we’re extra excited about including the namesake Pink Taco, stuffed with achiote chicken, avocado, arbol salsa, and more, Succulent Lobster Enchiladas, and a slew of creative Margaritas that range from prickly pear to avocado chile.
Pink Taco will be located at 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
By Amanda Mesa, a contributing writer
