New or Coming to Miami / Dade - 2010 Edition

[Frodnesor]

With 8 days left in the year, I thought it might be time to retire the "Anything new or coming to Dade late '09?" thread, which has served us well, and move on. For archival purposes, here are the earlier threads ->

Anything new or coming to Dade late '09?
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/639922
Anything new or coming to Dade?
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/418284
Anything newer or on the way to Dade?
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/469584

Just to get things rolling, a few in the pipeline or imminent off the top of my head ->

- Morgan's in Wynwood, due to open December 28, 2009.
http://www.themorgansrestaurant.com/

- "Q" and "Fin", barbecue and seafood places from Chef Jonathan Eismann (Pacific Time, Pizzavolante) in the former Sheba space in the Design District, should be opening in the next few weeks.
http://www.pacifictimerestaurant.com/

- Norman's 180, from Chef Norman Van Aken, in the Colonnade hotel in Coral Gables, due to open ???
http://www.normanvanaken.com/

www.foodforthoughtmiami.com

[The Chowfather]

New or coming soon '09 edition (Miami)
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/565642

Does anyone know if Daniel Boulud still plans on opening DB Bistro Moderne in Miami this year?

[Frodnesor]

As of Dec. 2, Zagat was still reporting that a DB Bistro Moderne is coming our way ->
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releas...

[Frodnesor]

I've received an email that the long awaited (?) STK Steakhouse in the Gansevoort is now open.

[netmover]

Interesting since I heard the hotel went belly up aka Chapter ???

Have you been to BLT yet Frod? I almost got our group there last night but....

[Frodnesor]

Yes, I talk about BLT Steak here ->
http://www.foodforthoughtmiami.com/20...

Worth a visit if just for the warm chicken liver mousse & popovers to start (esp. in cold weather like now). Also, though the regular menu is pretty typical contemporary steakhouse style, there were a number of daily specials that showed some more flair.

[netmover]

Thanks for the update! The menu seemed a little limited, good to know about the specials dujour turbo charging what is otherwise a pretty typical menu.

[sushisamba]

hey netmover, i saw that you visited king kone. could you tell me if you liked it, and if there were many people there? thanks!

[netmover]

I actually loved it! And I am by no means a Hand Roll lover due to too much seaweed for my tastes. The thing about King Kone is they use this ultra thin seaweed wrap which crunches when you bite into it which is totally unexpected and rather good. It's not chewey like so many of the seaweed wraps used down here. Well worth a sniff...would love to hear your feedback and anyone else's for that matter! It had a steady, yet small stream of people the day I went which was in the off hours between lunch and dinner.

This just in...Vinyl and Kai is taking over the space formerly occupied by the Vietnamese restaurant between 11-12 on Washington Ave. Music and Food is the concept. Look for it to open in soon +/- a month.

[dbarnard]

The wife and I went to King Kone, but were much less impressed. It has a real fast-food sort of decor, but full-on sushi bar prices. We were the only ones there, but service was sloppy and slow. The rolls were just so-so. We ate up and left sooner thatn we would have.

[netmover]

It is a Fast Food Concept albeit a nouveau one.

Prices for the cones are in line with a burrito at Lime as is the lack of service.

I had a spicy salmon roll with shrimp tempura and brown rice that had my taste buds smacking! It was 8 bux.

Craving the place now!

[Icantread]

Smoke't opened in the old JJ's spot, Jose Andres has something coming in South Beach (looking forward to that one) and I heard there's a new sushi spot where the Giardino's originally opened in the Gables

[lax2mia]

Curious about the Jose Andres place. Is it going to be another iteration of The Bazaar?

[Frodnesor]

"Jose Andres has something coming in South Beach" - you say this just in passing? I can't find any info on that but would love to know more.

I think Richard Blais is working on something for South Beach too.

On the other side of things - Canela Cafe (Biscayne Blvd.), RIP.

[lax2mia]

Here's my theory on Jose Andres (I can't find anything either on him coming). SBE is/was developing the Ritz next to the Delano. They also developed the SLS which houses The Bazaar but they also have a restaurant group that includes Katsuya which is one of the places emblazoned on the fence cover that wraps around the property. Haven't been to the Delano in a while so don't know if the Ritz property is still being worked on or on hold. The link on the SBE website for the Ritz is dead so it's probably not a good sign.
Speaking of big name out of towners, wasn't Tony Mantuano of Chicago's Spiaggia going to open Enoteca Spiaggia somewhere on South Beach? Wonder what happened to that.

[Icantread]

Sorry Frod, the last couple months I've seen a sign on Collins with the words "Jose Andres" on it. We have a dead link right now, but it seems like lax2mia is on the money: http://www.sbe.com/hotelgroup/hg_miam...

[Icantread]

Forgot about Richard Blaise looking to open down here. Mrs. I and I went to FlipBurger on the 29th and were incredibly impressed. Stole the menu (paper) even

[mialebven]

Tell me more about FlipBurger? Where at?

[Icantread]

Mia,

Blaise has two, one in Alabama and the other in Atlanta. If you followed Top Chef the year he was on, you know he enjoys playing with presentation and actual delivery. The basic format is gourmet food presented as burgers. Don't want to make a long-winded review for an out of state restaurant here, but it's a neat little spot in a funky part of town. We tried a korean burger topped with kimchee, and a venison prepared with a gooseberry jam. A couple people tried the butcher's cut (red wine jam, blue cheese) and the ossobucco which apparently melted in your mouth, and several others. Ironically, the patty that tasted most like a burger was my venison and yet it won overall taste test. We also ran the gamut of fried sides, with the fries served with smoked mayo being our favorite and the sweetbreads being rather boring. Cocktails were good and under $10 and the krispy kreme shake tasted like a damn krispy kreme. We also tried a bacon soup and dessert which I cannot remember but was very good

http://www.flipburgerboutique.com/fli...

[dmo305]

Regarding a Jose Andres resto coming to town, I ate at Minibar in October and while the chefs didn't divulge any details, they confirmed that something was in the works with SLS down here.

[Icantread]

guess we'll keep it as "exciting rumor"

[Frodnesor]

"The Office", gastropub in Delray Beach from restaurateur David Manero and chef Mark Militello, set to open this Friday Jan. 8.

[netmover]

ok Frod et al you know the rules...let's keep this discussion to the MIA! Otherwise, the posts will be in the hundreds within weeks as opposed to months. THX.

Seems that Wolfgang's Steakhouse from NYC has abandoned its plans to take over the spot at the Harrison Hotel on 4th and Washington. Anyone know what might evolve there now?

Scorpion the new Mexy concept should be getting closer over at the former Tuscan Steakhouse location.

[Frodnesor]

I always get confused which space is which down there - Bliss Burger recently opened up where Cafe Maurice was, but that is not the Harrison's space, right?

[HabaneroJane]

i heard that scorpion place was a josh woodward production..now that he's being investigated for whatever it is he did or didnt do out in LA, is that still the deal? even govind armstrong left his partnership with him when table 8 went outta biz in nyc so wondering if woodward is still involved in this or it's just chodorow?

[Icantread]

By the way, Mrs. I and I tried a couple of desserts at Morgan's after eating at Mandolin. We almost left but are glad we stayed. Both were to die for. We had the coconut cake and the flourless chocolate cake. Also recommend the sangria (what?! really? yup). When we left, we asked what the flying saucer sized cookie was and were told it was oatmeal and to please take it home. It was pretty incredible. We've eaten the equivalent of about 4 cookies and it barely looks like we put a dent in it.

Supposedly all the food is organic/free range/etc. I didn't really investigate it, but the flavor was there.

[The Chowfather]

I hit Morgan's for a quick lunch and enjoyed the pulled pork sandwich. Good initial impression, will be back for more. Dinner starts soon

http://www.themorgansrestaurant.com/

[herbage]

We have been here twice thus far, 1 breakfast & 1 lunch. We hope this place catches on. I hear it can get busy for Sunday brunch, but our Thursday lunch and Saturday breakfast were dead, dead, dead.
-The cookies are to die for. The redneck in the kitchen made us a half dozen of the oatmeal when they ran out of the big ones...warm and gooey out of the oven is crazy good. We also had a giant chocolate chip after a Saturday morning breakfast.
-The baked goods are amazing here. Before our breakfast, they brought us a plate with a selection of morning treats: Sticky Bun, Almond croissant, shortbread cookie and a scone...all rocked our world.
-Try the V juice (carrot, apple & beet)...it's worth all 600 pennies.
-Salads are good.
-Wasn't a fan of the BBQ pork...until I dipped it in the accompanying meat drippings.
-Grilled cheese was tasty, 3 cheeses. Though borderline too cheesy for me.
-Banana-cinnamon smoothie is phenomenal.
-Brioche French toast is drenched in cinnamon butter and, well...just meh.

[Icantread]

Thanks for the update, herbage. I really need to hit this place up for a proper meal

[lax2mia]

I agree, this place should be getting a lot more love. Only been for lunch on a Saturday and we enjoyed it. Agree about the grilled cheese, but split that and chicken sandwich with my fiancee so we got a little bit of each (although delicious, a whole grilled cheese would be disasterous to your arteries). The french fries are addicting as well. Standout for me actually was the lentil soup. Tasted fresh yet with deep flavor. More homemade flavor than what I make at home! Cookies agreed are good, even though they're the size of a small pizza. Somehow they make them crisp and moist at the same time. must be magic.
Hopefully they'll open for dinner soon as outside Sat and Sun it's impossible for me to get there during the week.

[lax2mia]

Opening for dinner this Saturday. If anything like lunch, it should be really good.

http://www.themorgansrestaurant.com/

[Frodnesor]

Smoke'T BBQ place in the former JJ's diner space along US1 in Coral Gables open, already a thread here ->
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/679008

[mikek]

From miami.com, some we know about, others I have not seen mentioned...

Lunch with the ladies – and the gents – at Hotel St. Michel’s recently opened Gaetano Ristoranate. Italian skews highbrow at the revamped Gables outpost, with a menu featuring the likes of bacon-wrapped scallops, fettuccine al ragu Bolognese and pan fried swordfish with Sicilian ratatouille. 162 Alcazar Ave, Coral Gables; 305-422-6796
Korean style BBQ (pictured), fresh noodles and Filipino egg rolls arrive in Midtown via fast-casual Sakaya Kitchen. Chef Richard Hales (Mandarin Oriental Miami) promises al natural meat, poultry and seafood, organic dairy, fresh produce and house-made egg rolls, pickled vegetables and spice rubs. Buena Vista Ave, Suite 125, Miami; 305-576-8096
The SushiSamba gang brings a raw bar and tapas-style Asian/Latin feast to Midtown courtesy of Sugarcane, scheduled to open next week. The 4,200-square-foot space features indoor and outdoor dining and three kitchens (robata, hot kitchen & raw bar). 3250 NE First Ave, Miami; 786-369-0353
House cured bacon fingers and truffle burgers laced with parmesan arrive on the Beach courtesy of Bliss Burger Bistro & Lounge. Located in the old Café Maurice space South of Fifth, the restaurant skews highbrow burger with a menu featuring suggested wine pairings. Non beef lovers will appreciate veggie, turkey and tuna options. 419 Washington Ave; Miami Beach; 305-674-1277
Cafeina brings the first full liquor license to Wynwood – never a bad thing. Come to mingle, sip martinis and nosh on executive chef Guily Booth’s crab cakes, mini kobe burgers, tuna tacos and shrimp lollipop. 297 NW 23 St, Wynwood, 305-438-0792

[Frodnesor]

On the other side of the equation - recent closings: Canela Cafe on Biscayne Blvd.; Captain Crab's Take-Away on NE 79th Street.

[dmo305]

In the former Badrutt's space on S Miami Ave, a JB Kitchen & Bar coming soon...

[Frodnesor]

I didn't even know it was already the "former Badrutt's space".

[comidaqueen]

What's a JB Kitchen & Bar?

[HabaneroJane]

Must be Johann Badrutt Kitchen and Bar..same owner, new name/concept..

[lorilaw]

There is a review of the new JB Kitchen and Bar here: http://shortcutstofabulous.com/miami-...

[gingersnap]

'Picnic' set to replace SeaRock seafood place across from Publix on the Bay cab stand. New owner has said it will be diner style, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and plans to open in February....

[The Chowfather]

Tony Liu's (Hamptons) Sushi Lounge @ Trump Sunny Isle. Don't forget to check out Neomi's too

[The Chowfather]

Not sure if these have been mentioned yet but London's popular Zuma (contemporary Japanese)is coming soon to the Epic Hotel.
http://www.zumarestaurant.com/

New York's Mercadito (Mexican) is opening in Midtown.
http://www.mercaditochicago.com/midto...

[The Chowfather]

Any updated info on Zuma's opening date? I saw that it made the Pelligrino'S top 100

[dmo305]

I read somewhere (cant remember where) that in light of their inclusion on the top 100 list they are speeding up their opening down here... I think this summer?

[talos126]

Everything I've seen for Zuma says May, but most of that stuff hasn't been updated for two months, so who knows.

[2top]

For the last three days they've had job adds on craigslist.

[talos126]

According a New Times post, looks like May 24th.

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/shorto...

[Frodnesor]

Per Urbandaddy, El Scorpion (Mexican from Jeffrey Chodorow in former Tuscan Steak space in South Beach) opens tomorrow 5pm. If you're planning to go, check first, these reported openings have sometimes been unreliable.

[The Chowfather]

El Scorpion menu
http://www.urbandaddy.com/uploads/ass...

[Icantread]

Those are some noteworthy additions. Curious to see how they shape out.

[lax2mia]

Just saw a sign in my bathroom. Jeffrey Chodorow is apparently opening up a spot there. Not sure of the concept. Will let everyone know.

[The Chowfather]

Is Rocco in your tub?

[Icantread]

They are confirmed open for today. Against my better judgement, we are going tonight. We got suckered by the menu.

[lax2mia]

A bacon taco does that everytime.

[dmo305]

Hmmmm that and the bacon guac and the bacon nachos. And the suckling pig...

[Icantread]

Soooo, they were not open yesterday. I received three phone calls before picking up, being told oh-so-apologetically things did not work out as anticipated. I was ready to mumble to myself about these restaurants getting their act together and not cutting things so close when the manager insisted on booking another reservation so they could make a note to give me 50% off when I did come in.

Those bacon tacos for $2 a piece sound mighty tempting.

[Frodnesor]

"Altamare" (new bigger space, new menu for Altamar on west end of Lincoln Road) supposedly going to open early February. Chef Simon Stojanovic used to be at Michael's Genuine, and the menu preview I've seen looks very MGF&D-esque.

[Blind Mind]

The Ivy in Coconut Grove "officially" opens tomorrow night at 9pm with a launch party

[HabaneroJane]

whaat? hasnt that place been "open" for months already? sounds like trouble already

[Blind Mind]

You know how they do these things... They open and wait to get the service kinks out, etc, then they have their "real" opening bash. I've actually heard some decent reports and they really seem to be making an effort to keep pricing moderate by offering discounts to locals and tasting menus. Someday I'll walk over and give it a shot myself.

[jmdhsmiami]

the kinks I had last night left me feeling guilty and sorry I went. @ (Poison) Ivy in the Grove

[netmover]

I've done lunch at IVY twice now and both times I went it was solid. The menu has some interesting dishes on it things you rarely, if ever, see here in the MIA.

[Frodnesor]

Bombay Darbar, Indian in Coconut Grove -
http://www.bombaydarbarrestaurant.com...
The picture on the website of the woman with the photoshopped bindi on her forehead is alone worth a visit. Can't figure out from the website if there's any connection to the old Darbar in Coral Gables.

[Icantread]

There were rumors floating around that the chef for newly opened "Ayesha" in Key Biscayne wanted his own place. I wonder if there's any connection. We've been hoping to dine there for a few weeks but just have not made it.

That is a phenomenal large, symmetrical Bindi.

[Rondo]

Hey gang. As a Northerner who visits Miami about twice per year, I love this thread! Is there a thread for what Restaurants have closed? If so, point me in the right direction. If not, our last trip was this past October. What's gone belly up since then? TIA!

[Frodnesor]

2009 Miami restaurant openings & closings:

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/shorto...

[Rondo]

Thanks Frod. Very enlightening.

[The Chowfather]

Updated list of restaurants and bars that are scheduled to open in Feb. @ Village of Gulfstream.
I'm hoping Jacob's Market is a nice addition.
http://www.villageatgulfstream.com/di...

[Icantread]

Looks like they are on schedule for February 11.

[The Chowfather]

The menu for Chef Douglas Rodriguez' s Ola Cuban @ Village of Gulfstream is up
http://www.olacuban.com/

[dmo305]

Wow did anyone take a look at this OLA menu? This looks amazing... lmao!! I really hope the "chicken tights" served with the Arroz Imperial are edible. My question is, what in the world is "pan seared air line chicken breast"?

I hope the "sweet chilly aioli" is indeed served chilled with the plantain crusted Mahi...

I hope they put more effort into cooking their food!

PS Does anyone know what "clove wand water" is?

[Frodnesor]

That menu could definitely use a proof-reader, but an "air line chicken breast" is in fact a pretty customary culinary term: it usually refers to a chicken breast which is basically boneless except that a little bit of the wingbone is left in.

Having said that ... I have no idea why it's referred to as an "airline" chicken breast, or why anyone would ever think in a million years that any association with airplane food would be appetizing, or for that matter what the point is of leaving the wingbone in, since it doesn't really add flavor (as is often the case with bone-in preps) since it's such a tiny little bit, and really just makes part of the chicken breast harder to eat.

[dmo305]

Whoops shoulda googled that one... It just so fell into line with the rest of the mistakes i fooled myself! I was thinking "how do you get from heirloom to air line!!?!"

I just hope those air line breasts are not tight

[2top]

Watch for Pietro Vardeu of Sardinia to open a new restaurant on the river at the old Big Fish location.

[HabaneroJane]

I didn't even know Big Fish closed! that's a great space!

[Frodnesor]

Baru Urbano sez it's close to opening in Brickell
http://twitter.com/baruurbano

[Blind Mind]

Did anyone post on Gibraltar on Grove Isle? Open

[2cooks5eaters]

Here's my post/warning - Do not go to Gibraltar on Grove Isle. I was invited there for breakfast...it was the slowest, tasteless breakfast ever. As a guest, I limited my comments, but the breakfast hostess was apologetic and almost in tears as we left. The first course was a unseasaoned shrimp or crab cocktail or sushi. Not one flavorful item...I am sure the sushi was delivered the day before and refrigerated overnight. 30 minute later our breakfast entrees arrived. Every dish was overcooked, underseasoned, bland (I know they mean the same..just want to stress how bad it really is). Simple pancakes arrived black, medium steaks were the same. As we prepared to leave the table, the manager approached but we walked away to allow the hostess to settle the issue with the manager. It is such a waste of a beautiful space! We should have known it was awful...the restaurant was empty on a Sunday morning! I have been to this restaurant when it was Baleen. I recall a very good breakfast experience. Things have really changed and not for the better.

[2cooks5eaters]

PS. Dessert was included, but after the two hour wait for the worst food ever...we excused ourselves from the gathering. We being all of the 12 people in attendance.

[moralesmom]

Has anyone tried any of the restaurants in Gulfstream? I noticed several of them say they are opening in March. Any news?

[Icantread]

I spoke with my client and it seems we're a couple of weeks away on most of the stores/restaurants opening there. Plan to make a visit soon and see what's cooking. Either way, it will prove to be an interesting addition to the area.

[dmo305]

Burger and Beer Joint - the Mary Brickell edition coming this summer... 6000 sq ft space and open til 5 am... Yay!

[Frodnesor]

Per Thrillist, Picnic Miami at 14th & Bay Road in South Beach is opening this Sunday for brunch, then to be open 5am - 3am daily ->
http://www.picnicmiami.com/

Aracataca, "Colombian Chic Cuisine", is supposed to be opening in Key Biscayne today.
http://it-it.facebook.com/pages/Key-Biscayne-FL/AracatacA/269387424696

And tonight is opening party for Q American Barbecue in the Design District from Chef Jonathan Eismann (Pacific Time, PizzaVolante).
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miami-FL/Q-American-Barbeque/207089375215

www.foodforthoughtmiami.com

[tpigeon]

Picnic is 20th and bay road. It is taking the place of Sea Rock which is closed.

[mialebven]

Aracataca just got featured in Thrillist - and it looks good - "haute Colombian," anyone?

D'Lima also got mentioned in Thrillist & UrbanDaddy - an upscale Peruvian sandwich shop and ceviche bar. From what I know, it's the only Peruvian sandwich shop in Miami-Dade (there's another one that's been around in Broward, but it sounds more downscale than this one).

Have anyone been to either yet? It's nice to see more trendy South American offerings.

[mikek]

While no specifics were given, Jonathan Eissman (sp?) said in an interview with the Herald that he is planning another 2 places in the DD.

[Frodnesor]

2 more beyond Q and Fin?

[mikek]

That is what it seems like...

"What will dining in the Design District look like in 2 years? 5?
MB: More restaurants, more options, more people walking the streets looking for fun, approachable dining, more business, great drinks and prices and an overall awesome experience.
KL: This is a bit of Deja Vu for me - opening Lyon Freres et Compagnie on Lincoln Road in 1992 (admittedly ahead of the curve) and watching what happened in break-neck speed - only this time I plan on sticking around! In two years, the Design District will be able to take the important steps forward that this last difficult year was prevented. More fantastic shops, more interesting (hopefully local) restaurants, hopefully more community-building infrastructure. In five years (or less), a chic boutique hotel, more work-live opportunities, a regular and critical mass of walking traffic, more professional offices, an internationally recognized graduate-level art school, a bigger and better DASH, and perhaps even an expanded grid of the Design District itself. It's also very likely that the Design District will become, within five-years time, one of the most formidable "restaurant districts" in the country.
MS: Like it is now, just more of it.
JE: A pleasant Tribeca-esque feel. In my case –I now have four venues in the DD and two more in the works. Value, quality and diverse quality product all within one block of each other."

Here is the link to the entire article...

http://www.miami.com/wine-amp-food-fe...

[HabaneroJane]

I'd say four is kind of enough places for one person to own in one neighborhood. Six sounds overzealous. Calm down Eismann.

[Frodnesor]

DD needs a gelato shop.

[HabaneroJane]

DD needs a lof of things. Foot traffic, being one of them.

[mikek]

Anyone heading to Q tonight for the grand opening?

[Blind Mind]

Mercadito should be opening in less than 2 wks in Midtown

[The Chowfather]

Cantina Laredo opened yesterday at the Village of Gulfstream. I know it's technically Broward but it's on the border. I am unfamiliar with this chain. Has anyone ever been to one?
http://www.cantinalaredo.com/

[Icantread]

Went to this one on Sunday. Not great, but not bad. It's closer to the "Mexican" we know, but done well. I am guessing it will be popular in the area

[Icantread]

Don't have the name yet, but it seems like a Florentine restaurant, with the backing of Florence, will be opening in the old Preston Scott space on Aragon in Coral Gables. they are going to have a very opulent space and, a la Driade/Lyon space, everything will be available for sale, even the marble used in the bathroom floors.

[mialebven]

Egyptian Pizza Kitchen opening up next to Lime in Midtown Miami.

And rumors of a new pizzeria and deli opening up below the artists' studios being developed on North Miami Avenue by NE 11th Street.

[Frodnesor]

Mercadito in Midtown Miami due to soft open 3/12 with full opening 3/18.

[The Chowfather]

Does anyone know if Mercadito and Sushi Samba are owned by the same group? Irrelevant but relevant...

[Frodnesor]

I'm not aware of any connection, but somehow I know what you mean.

[The Chowfather]

Tonino Lamborghini Café Corso, by the Lamborghini car family is open at the Village of Gulfstream. I got a glance t the menu and they are allegedly serving homemade pasta. I'll try to confirm this soon. Worst case scenario you get a Lamborghini charge on your CC...

[jessicam29]

Old Lisbon's second location opened on Sunset Dr., in the old Alta Cocina space in South Miami.

[Icantread]

Didn't realize they had done that. Should be a good move for them

[mialebven]

The popular George's in the Grove is opening another location in South Miami.

[tpigeon]

provence is open now in the old alta mar spot in sobe -- dinner only for now...it is pretty good

[mialebven]

Amuse, a restaurant opening in the Marquis in Miami's Parkwest, is coming online in May 2010.

11th & Biscayne Blvd.

[mikek]

The menu for Taste Gastropub (the one Allen Susser is involved with) was posted on their website. The menu reads very, very well. Hopefully they learn some lessons from The Office's apparent shortcomings...

http://www.tastegastropub.com/

[The Chowfather]

I wish this was his (chef allen) Miami menu...

[RickL]

"48 Hour Duck Confit Pot Pie" - sign me up!

[dmo305]

Coming soon on 12th and S Miami ave (next to Piola) are Zen Sushi Lounge and Le Kabob Mediterranean Lebanese grill

[mikek]

The Forge is reopening next week...

http://www.miami.com/the-forge-20-art...

[mialebven]

Prosecco, another Italian restaurant, is opening up in the Design District tomorrow.

[netmover]

OM Garden is taking over the old Bartolome Bistro place on Purdy Ave in SoBe. La Locanda is moving to the space formerly occupied by Cafe Maurice and Burger Bliss. And Nespresso is close to opening on Lincoln across from the cinema.

[Frodnesor]

Bulldog Cafe from Chef Howie Kleinberg (Bulldog BBQ in NMB) is now open in Aventura.

[sherry f]

Do you know exactly where in Aventura Bulldog Cafe is located?

[Frodnesor]

Street address I've seen is 19048 NE 29th Avenue - I believe that's the same area where Chef Allen's is and where the Ivy used to be.

[sherry f]

That makes sense. Thanks.

[sherry f]

Bulldog Cafe is taking over That Cool Place which is behind the Publix on 29th in Aventura. The signage does not yet reflect the new name, and the map/directions are not yet on the website. I popped in yesterday and had a nice chat with Howie, and as it was mid-afternoon. We actually discussed brisket recipes and how he got into BBQ.

I sampled the yogurt flavours. The strawberry lemonade was great and I opted to order the peanut butter with peanut topping. It is fresh with real ingredients (ie no chemicals). Really great. He told me he was out of the red velvet yogurt which sounds amazing. He warned me it is not "dietetic" as it has real red velevet cake batter in it. The menu has limited barbeque items, salads, wraps etc.

Howie also told me he will be opening a burger spot next door to Bulldog BBQ in about a year. i guess that is a posting to "New or Coming to Miami-Dade 2011".

[Frodnesor]

Chowdown Grill, a small Chinese place w a focus on local, seasonal product, from a chef who's spent time in the kitchens at China Grill, Timo, and BLT Steak, is coming to Surfside.

[Icantread]

that sounds exciting and untrammeled for Miami.

[Frodnesor]

Speaking of which, actually, Chu's Taiwan Kitchen in Coral Gables (same Chu as Mr. Chu's formerly on South Beach), which went into the old Los Ranchos spot on the circle, closed briefly and recently reopened. We were in there a couple weeks, had very good xiao long bao and peking duck. Not sure if I'm repeating myself here or not.

When I was there they said they were looking to start doing dim sum lunch in April. I need to check back and see what's going on with that.

[Frodnesor]

A few signs I've seen about town (none open yet) ->

La Cigale ("Cafe Marsellais") on Biscayne Blvd. in the 60/70s, same strip where Le Café is.

High Steaks BBQ on Douglas Road near Flagler, in what used to be Lighthouse 37.

Azucar Bakery/Cafe, on Ponce de Leon & corner of 8th Street, spot that I think was most recently O Bacalhau.

[lax2mia]

Excellent! Boullabaise w/i walking distance.

[Frodnesor]

New taco shop destined for Lincoln Road area - tacontento - Mexican by way of Guatemala, apparently ->
http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/shortorder/2010/04/bubbles_n_ice_opens_today_new.php#comments
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miami-B...

[Blind Mind]

Georges Farge of Georges in the Grove is opening up another location in South Miami later this year. Also, Lulu is opening across from Greenstreet in the Grove around July.

[Frodnesor]

Kabobji, a Middle-Eastern place (there's already a location on 163rd St. Causeway) has a sign up on the former Edy's Chicken & Steak location on 79th St. Causeway. One door closes, another door opens. I'll still miss Edy's green sauce, but I've eaten at (or gotten takeout from) Kabobji on 163rd a couple times and it is quite good.

http://eatkabobji.com

[scscr]

Sign up on the former Two Chef's/Bridges place on NE 123rd says Mexican Restaurant coming soon.

[Frodnesor]

Zuma (Japanese by way of London, in Epic Hotel) is in soft-open phase, with some folks already having gone this week for friends & family dinners.

Water Club (Andrea Curto-Randazzo and Frank Randazzo of Talula are executive chefs) in North Miami Beach (former Shooters location?) is within weeks of opening.

Jose Andres says a restaurant in SLS South Beach is still in the works, will be coming over next 18 months.

Some new openings in downtwon recently - Sparky's Roadside BBQ, First and First Southern Baking Company.

[gblcsw]

Shouldn't Norman's 180 be opening any day?

[Blind Mind]

Sushi Sake opened up in the Brickell area recently. Word on the streets from 2 people I talked to said it was pretty good.

[Blind Mind]

Zuma @ Epic Hotel is open to the public today.

[Frodnesor]

+ Water Club in North Miami Beach is supposed to open this Thursday.

[SarahOM]

They are working on more stuff where Loehmanns plaza is located. Apart from Howie's Bulldog Cafe, where Prezzo was they are def putting a new Italian restaurant, they are working on it now. And where Dadinos was its all blocked off so you can’t peek so something is coming!!!!

[talos126]

Water Club officially opened last night for dinner and will be open for lunch starting on Saturday.

[Icantread]

Didn't realize it was it's first day open for lunch.
Great food, wonderful ambiance, top notch quality ingredients. Chef Curto was helming the kitchen as well.
The food is sort of a classic Americana by the water with a slight tropical twist. Beautiful flavors with probably a simpler slant than Talula. Nice wine list. Meh on the beers (the selection did not appeal to me, though I had the Drifter pale ale on tap which is awesome) and a fair price point (most options are under $20, with sandwiches, apps, etc all in the low teens), though you get some pricier items, like their signature Spinalis, grilled, for $36. If they keep their prices even, this place will be jammed in no time.

I'm hoping Chef Kyle's still manning Talula on a regular basis, as I am going this Friday for a special dinner.

[The Chowfather]

Per Eater NYC's Brother Jimmy's is heading to South Beach (quaterdecks alton road spot)

http://miami.eater.com/archives/2010/06/05/early-plywood-report-1.php
http://www.brotherjimmys.com/

[southocean]

Brother Jimmy's website doesn't mention the South Beach location, and Eater, as usual, fails to indicate an address.

Maybe I'll get a flyer in the mail, mixed in with my Jeff Greene and Rick Scott flyers.

[The Chowfather]

14th and alton (1430)

[The Chowfather]

Flip Burger Bar (North Miami in same spot w/ same chef as Bocca Italian) is open.

http://www.flip-burgerbar.com/Flip_Burger_Bar.html

http://www.flip-burgerbar.com/uploads...

[Icantread]

you said that too casually for a Richard Blais restaurant, but I see there's no relation. I'm surprised he did not get all bent out of shape that someone used the same name for a burger joint.

I can't wait till one of those bad boys opens up in our neck of the woods.

[mikek]

I was thinking the exact same thing when I heard of this place. I am shocked that he is not aware of the overlap. Maybe if I let him know when I am in Atlanta next week he will give me a free burger (kidding).

[mikek]

Apparently Norman Van Aken's new spot is opening this week.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/06/23...

[Frodnesor]

Norman's 180 (located in the Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables, 180 Aragon Ave.) opens Tuesday June 29. Preview menu can be found here ->
http://www.foodforthoughtmiami.com/20...

[lax2mia]

Wow. All looks tasty but menu seems all over the place. Pho, fried chicken, cuban sandwich, charcuterie? Will they wash my car and do dry cleaning too?

[HabaneroJane]

almost as all over the place as the forge's new menu. but this one sounds all over the place tasty as opposed to all over the place wtf?

[Frodnesor]

Also should be mentioned that Chowdown Grill in Surfside, mentioned upthread, is now open.

[Frodnesor]

From the folks who brought you GreenStreet Cafe, Lulu in the Grove ->
http://luluinthegrove.com/luluinthegr...

(thanks Urban Daddy for the heads up).

[Frodnesor]

Fin, the seafood place from Chef Jonathan Eismann which is located at the corner of the Q Miami space, finally opened up this week. Small space (~26 seats total) with a real Cape Cod feel, all fresh seafood. There's a preview menu on the website:
http://finrestaurantmiami.com/fin.html

[Icantread]

About Time! That preview we had showed so much potential. I expect to enjoy some great meals there. I had thought they were moving locations, however.

[Frodnesor]

Here is what I understand as to the Eismann / Chodorow musical chairs game:

- The current Q Miami in the Design District (in the old Sheba space) is staying exactly where it is, as is Fin which is in the same space.

- After the summer, Pacific Time (Design District) will be changed over to become El Scorpion (the Chodorow Mexican place currently in the old Tuscan Steak location on South Beach).

- El Scorpion on South Beach is going to become a second Q Miami.

[HabaneroJane]

that is such a damn shame because El Scorpion was, at best, mediocre.

[mikek]

Same with Q. I do not get it. Why not actually make your first location good, not even great, but good, before stretching yourself further with a second spot? Plus, the DD/Midtown area is so saturated with these Mexican taqueria joints as is (three in Midtown alone).

[HabaneroJane]

I completely agree with you Mike. Q is also a study in smoked mediocrity. But that mediocrity could translate well on South Beach, where the mediocre gets a big pass.

[mikek]

You are being generous in your choice of adjective!

[Frodnesor]

One correction to the above re PT/Q/Fin - Pacific Time has in fact already closed.

[SarahOM]

Hi! They are opening a place here in Aventura (Where Dadino's use to be) called Mr. Chef (Chinese Food). They were putting the “coming soon” sign up right when I walked by this afternoon.

[mialebven]

A little surprised nobody mentioned this yet:

BRICKELL:
Le Kabob is set to open soon - curious about the menu since they're touting themselves to be the first Lebanese and Mediterranean fusion restaurant in Miami. 1250 S. Miami Ave #4, Miami, FL 33131

SOUTH BEACH:
The internationally known gelato chain 4D (with locations in Italy, Germany, Poland, Venezuela, etc) opened its first American branch in South Beach, Miami (South Pointe where Dolce Vita used to be) and will open up more locations in South Florida. Known for using local/fresh ingredients as well as for using Arabica beans for their coffee. 500 South Point Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139

SUNNY ISLES:
The popular Israeli-import, Aroma Espresso Bar, opened in Sunny Isles. First time it went beyond the New York City market in the United States. 150 Sunny Isles Blvd, Sunny Isles, FL 33160

[lax2mia]

Pulled from my Reader of this thread a post that was taken down touting American Noodle Bar (which has had a sign up for a bit right next to Kingdom on Biscayne Blvd). Says it's Michael Bloise's (ex-chef of WIsh from what I remember). If true, I'm psyched. Looks like it's a bit away from opening though. Keeping fingers crossed it's soon.

[Frodnesor]

The "American Noodle Bar" sign is actually fairly recent. Until a few weeks ago, there had been a sign for "Pineapple Express" or something to that effect, with the further message of "Opening January 2010." So much for that. Here's more, including confirmation of Michael Bloise's involvement ->
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Miami-F...

[americannoodlebar]

Hey there - glad to see a little chatter popping up! American Noodle Bar is coming together fast and we should be open some time next month!

[Blind Mind]

Coco Wok is rumored to be opening in...wait for it...Cocowalk Mall, Coconut Grove. Cococrazy!!!

[Frodnesor]

Not quite Miami but really close: Il Mercato Cafe and Wine Shop in Hallandale, just opened a week or two ago. Tried it for the first time last night, and was pretty charmed by it.

Brief menu: 4-5 apps, a few salads, a few pastas, about 4-5 entrées. Very nice that the pastas and entrées are all available in 1/2 portions (a la Michy's). Best things we had were a smoked salmon app over a potato pancake, a pork belly app with hominy and a little radish salad, and beautifully cooked salmon over barley with a shiitake soy butter.

Very nice wine list with some very reasonably priced selections, and the food prices are fantastically reasonable too. Apps all under $10, 1/2 orders all under $10 (full orders under $20), and pretty generous portions.

http://ilmercatocafe.com

[2top]

A few of us went to Il Mercato last night and were thrilled by the menu items.
Couldn't resist Braised pork belly, hominy, radish salad, red chile sauce. Spicy chicken wings. The Homemade tagliatelle with Bolognese style ragu was all it could be - great pasta.. The Artichoke ravioli with lemon cream, ricotta and parmesan was a killer. I licked the plate on this one. The sauce was the bomb. “Porchetta” style pork shoulder, soft polenta, grilled greens - crispy flavorful goodness. I had a glass of Tokay before dinner that had a lovely clean spearmint essence to it. We shared a delicious bottle of Fumanelli Valpolicella. All was very reasonably priced. The couple running the place are working hard, she (the chef) has an interesting resume. Check it out!

[Frodnesor]

They poured us a sample of that wine as well, if memory serves it was a Quattro Mani tocai friulano from Slovenia. Very nice apertif style wine.

[beachcat]

I have to say, Il Mercato was yummy and extremely affordable. It's a little hard to spot the place as it's in a strip mall and recessed from the storefronts - look for the CAFE neon sign. The food was top notch and I love that you can get half-orders, so I can try more plates and have room for dessert. Pictured are Pork Shoulder, Pork Belly, homemade Taglitelle Bolognese (all half orders) and chicken wings confit (which were a little fatty, but very flavorful).

[mialebven]

Seems like Angelina's Coffee & Yogurt just opened in Midtown Miami.

[Blind Mind]

Tokyo Blue recently opened in the Ocean Manor Resort Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. Chef Mai from Nobu is exec chef and Chef Akira, shokunin and former owner of Sushin, heads up the sushi bar.

[miami_african]

I know the team behind this venture. Will be worth a visit if past ventures are anything to go by... www.safariclubmiami.com

[southocean]

I love it when the owners tout their own restaurant! And on multiple forums!

Any chance you can reference these alleged past ventures?

[miami_african]

Actualy I'm the lawyer, not the owner...but having worked with them in Zimababwe and currently on a deal in Singapore, I think they have something new to offer...who knows anything about African food ? a bit of moroccan or ethiopian maybe, but Africa is a big place..I hope it's as good transplanted as it is local

[2top]

We had a South African on the Beach a few years ago. Madiba. It was good and the owners were great but couldn't make it and went back to its one location in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.

[HabaneroJane]

I remember. I ate there. Was too cool for Miami. It's now Beer & Burger Joint.

[2top]

Yea, burgers wow.

[mikek]

In a Herald article about Midtown, Michael Schwartz mentioned he is looking to open a BBQ spot in the development.

[Blind Mind]

That got axed as covered by Eater the other day...

http://miami.eater.com/archives/2010/...

[mialebven]

This is more of a news regarding chains - but the popular Hurricane Grill & Wings finally opened up recently (Aug 17) in Midtown Miami. They'll have a grand opening on the 22nd.

[mialebven]

South Florida Gourmet says both Miss Yip (an offshoot of Miami Beach's original) in downtown / Park West neighborhoood and Vino e Olio (Tuscany-focused Italian) in Design District are open.

Thrillist just mentioned Gigi Asian is open in Wynwood / Midtown. Supposedly a good locally-sourced, late-night Asian.

And also recently opened is the self-touted Haitian-American fusion cafe, Joumou Cafe, just to the south of Buena Vista Bistro - in the upper Design District.

[Frodnesor]

I tried Joumou earlier this week, take-out. Very slow getting the food out and didn't have the full menu available, but what I had was decent - griots, stewed chicken.

[Icantread]

Btw, Gigi is with Jeff McInnis and the people behind Sra. Martinez (Domo Japonais side), I believe

[Frodnesor]

The folks running Gigi also run Sra. M, Bond St., Miss Yip and Bardot. And I think you're right that they came to Sra. M by way of Domo Japonese.

[2top]

CHEF BERNIE MATZ OPENS BERNIE’S L.A. CAFÉ

Bernie’s L.A. Café – now open at 1570 Alton Road
Renowned Chef from
The Café at Books & Books Brings
Authentic and Healthy Pan Latino Food
to His New Miami Beach Restaurant
IT’S COMFORT FOOD – SIN CULPA!

[lax2mia]

100 Mondtaditos

What looks to be a Spanish sandwich chain opening up in Midtown and on S. Beach. Horrible website doesn't tell you much about it, but it appears to be all about sandwiches, salads and possibly beer.

http://www.cerveceria100montaditos.com/

[taiga]

What is so bad about the website? It looks like a blessing to me.

[Icantread]

A baguette with glasses is always a welcome touch..sheesh

[HabaneroJane]

website would be much more helpful/insightful if it was in English. sheesh.

[taiga]

This is Miami -- speak Spanish. (just twisting the original a bit -- don't overreact) Tranquilo.

[HabaneroJane]

ha, taiga, exactly. grrrrrr

[Gabled]

The baguette is wearing a tie, though.

Tough crowd here. A chain with 180 restaurants in Spain -- and ZERO outside of Spain, until the Miami ones open -- is getting heat for having a website in Spanish?

There is an "International Development" section in English to solicit franchisees. I trust when the eateries open that there may be an English standalone site or at least an English tab on the Spain site..

[dmo305]

I have been to the 100 Montaditos in Sevilla a couple years ago. I remember it being both good and cheap. All the sandwiches were a euro per, and ice cold beer the same. 100 different kinds (duh). Welcome addition...

[The Chowfather]

Pubbelly -an Asian inspired Gastropub (SoBe)

http://pubbelly.com/

[HabaneroJane]

what a horrible name!

[taiga]

What Pubbelly wouldn't give for a website and name like 100 Montaditos!

[HabaneroJane]

@taiga--haahahahahahahahahahahaa, right?

[taiga]

Forno 52 way down south in Palmetto Bay has a sign on a window on US1.

http://www.forno52.com/

in the mother tongue and unofficial language of pizza -- English.

[Frodnesor]

I had a pizza from a mobile wood-burning oven that Forno 52 has (at an event at Fairchild Tropical Garden), and it was pretty darn good for a pizza from a cart.

[taiga]

That's good news!

[markpy]

Village of Merrick Park website mentions soon to open Cabo Flats (mexican) and CRAVE. Has anyone had any culinary experience with these (Cabo is a chain). Also SAWA has already opened there (http://www.sawarestaurant.com/cocktai...) but haven't tried it.

[lax2mia]

Hilarious that upscale Village of Merrick Park has to resort to chains to satisfy its crowd. Then again, most of downtown Gables is turning into chain schlop. Great taste in food Gables!

[taiga]

La Estancia Argentina is out of business across from Nordstrom.

[Icantread]

I saw that the other day. I always thought it was doing great!

[taiga]

Heartbreaking because it had style.

[Icantread]

downtown Coral Gables is a financially driven district. Most people "operating" a restaurant in Miami-Dade are not operators at all and actually mom-and-pop types who don't necessarily know what they're doing outside of the restaurant they've run for the past 15 years and whining that their landlords have decided to raise rents to more reasonable numbers for themselves. They come shopping around and often offer less than 2/3 or even half what a competitive rate would be. Little to no financial records, little to no cash towards deposits and you start to get the picture.

Do these owners necessarily want the big chain in there? Well, it's easier to sell to an investor down the line and it tastes better than a dirty, failed restaurant with all the equipment ripped out. The Village of Merrick Park resorts to chains to satisfy its investors.

[taiga]

Sad, but true. Our "structure" is not so great.

[HabaneroJane]

sawa is very forgettable

[miami_african]

SAWA seems to be the same as so many places in Miami, completely unfocused...the website promises "Our menu merges an innovative orgy of mediterranean cuisines with various influences from past and present cultures." and then they have a huge sushi menu, now, I'm not the worlds greatest foodie, but Sushi, a mediterranean cuisine.....give me a break...

[Frodnesor]

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, another Goldman project (Joey's Wynwood), is looking to open up before Art Basel weekend in December. The food slant is "American Brasserie," with chef Marco Ferraro (Wish) doing the menu.

And New Times reports today that David Burke is slated to be the new "culinary director" of Strike Miami, bowling alley/restaurant in the Dolphin Mall. Seems an unlikely place for a fairly celebrated chef to be making his Miami debut.

[YonaShyml]

I went to Wynwood Kitchen last night and have some comments--they break out into two rather extreme points of view. The place broadly reminds me of an East Village Manhattan restaurant--reasonably strong and simple food, but more than a bit of an attitude problem.

First, the host/maitre d' of this restaurant (at least the one on duty last night) is one of the more pompous, pretentious, idiotic, and unethical that I have encountered in five years of living in Miami. I don't think so highly of this town, and individuals like this tend to justify my point of view. To be fair, we showed up without a reservation in the early parts of the evening, but there were almost a dozen empty tables for two. (I even offered the maitre d' a $20 tip for a table, but he implied I would have needed to tip him $100 for the table.)

That said, we sat at the bar, and put ourselves in the hands of an amiable bartender. He guided us through a variety of mostly smaller courses, but his judgement was superb. The sausages he brought (lamb and beef) were excellent, as was a fried artichoke dish as well as mussels in a marina sauce. The wine list was fairly strong and well priced--I had a great glass of Antinori for $9!

Overall, the food here is actually simple pub-oriented fare--nothing spectacularly sophisticated, but it is prepared perfectly, and I liked the big courtyard, where one can experience the cool murals of Wynwood. It is possible children would like that!

I was put off by the maitre d', though, his ridiculous attitude, and more than a bit of pretentiousness at this place. Those two factors would give me pause to return, and I think the restaurant will need to overcome this and change if it is to succeed and stay alive in Miami. (The summer is only a few months away, and only a few of us will be here!)

Not sure how soon I will be back.

[Frodnesor]

A new Argentine place, Lo De Lea, has signs up on the former Casa Toscana spot on Biscayne Boulevard. Not open yet.

[Yum Mi]

Theres going to be a little place in the Yellow Green Farmer's Market in Hollywood thats opening up this sunday oct.3 thats selling vietnamese sandwiches (banh mi) and jelly tea and vietnamese coffee. Try it out

[The Chowfather]

Kantauri described by Urban Daddy as a "Spanish seafood shack" just opened on 51st and Biscayne. see link below for more details

http://www.urbandaddy.com/mia/food/11...

[Frodnesor]

De Rodriguez Ocean, new seafood-focused place in the Hilton Bentley on South Beach from Chef Douglas Rodriguez, opened last week. We got a bit of a preview when he hosted a dinner there with Chef Katsuya Fukushima last month, nice spot and he put out some great ceviches.

1500° in the Eden Roc on Miami Beach is to open 10/15. Chef Paula DaSilva (formerly at 3030 Ocean in Fort Lauderdale) is the chef. Describes itself as a "farm-to-table restaurant with a heavy steakhouse sensibility." Jenny Rissone is supposed to be doing the dessert menu.

[taiga]

Give it to us straight Frod. Why are all the "chefs" labeled in parenthesis?

Chef Laurent Kobayashi (formerly of Chateau Penguin in Capetown) will join forces with Antonio Alvarez Descartes (formerly of Los Gatos Fabulosos in Macao) to open a sustainable, organic raw bar with a focus on upscale borderless tapas blending the best of Slovakia and Paraguay. Do the hype and sales ever end?

[Frodnesor]

That sounds good! What's the location? ;)

Until a place actually opens and I've tried it, I've got nothing more to "give you straight" beyond the information I get myself.

A couple more things to note ->

Kabobji, which I mentioned upthread, opened a month or so ago (79th Street Causeway toward the beach side). Good Middle-Eastern food with a somewhat broader menu than you'll typically encounter.
http://www.eatkabobji.com

Vino e Olio, new Italian in Design District, supposed to do soft open later this month.
http://www.vinoeolio.com/

[taiga]

I hope I did not suggest that it was Frod who is responsible for the language that irritates me. Rather than hate the player, I am hating the game. Again, is the hype that we create necessary. Are we fish biting prematurely for the hook? Why can't they just build it, and if it is good, we will come. (Sorry about all the cliched metaphors)

[Frodnesor]

Well, the thread is "New or Coming to Miami / Dade" so it's sort of the nature of the beast to be counting our chickens before they're hatched, to break out a few more clichés.

[taiga]

Ha! So I guess if the chef is bouncing around from place to place, might we say that his goose had been cooked elsewhere?

Chefs make college basketball and football coaches seem more loyal -- one step ahead of the posse.

[Frodnesor]

I don't think it has anything to do with loyalty really. The restaurant business is by its nature pretty transient. The vast majority of restaurants have fairly short lifespans, and many - even very successful - chefs will go through a lot of places in their careers. In addition, often the issue is an opportunity to move up that they wouldn't find in their current place of employ - Paula DaSilva is a good example, she was never going to be the executive chef of Dean Max's 3030 Ocean and now has the opportunity to take over that role at a new restaurant.

[taiga]

Don't you mean the American restaurant business?

Why are we so different. Europe is transient as well, but here nobody remains in one place. Is it a bottomless stomach for ambition, structural issues, minimum wage issues, or Obamacare(blame it on Obama)?

[lax2mia]

Aw c'mon guys! When I see this post is updated I get excited thinking it's got news of a new place but then just see this mini-thread continued. Can we carry this on as another topic?

[Icantread]

Ran into an odd restaurant a couple weeks ago: Ninja Tavern in Miami Lakes. The concept comes across as if it were an American sports bar opened in Japan or similar. Quirky menu, interesting rolls, a lot of Korean-American fusion-ish stuff. Odd rolls (Cuban roll with pulled pork and a mojo dipping sauce was great) They are still figuring out the menu but I think it has some good potential. They had us try one of the soups they are coming out with for the wintertime. Brutally spicy (at Mrs. I's request) but amazing flavor. Once the menu's fully ironed out, I think it has some good potential. Now that I'm near the area, I will be revisiting.

[lax2mia]

Saw the coming soon sign the other day at Wynwood art walk and not Eater is confirming the upcomng Panther Coffee space. Wonder if they'll have a little Cuban coffee window?

http://miami.eater.com/archives/2010/...

[The Chowfather]

Cecconi's at the new Soho House (Miami Beach). Chef is Sergio Sigala formerly of Casa Tua. Looks like a cool space

http://www.sohobeachhouse.com/cecconi...

[miachef]

There's a sign up for a Tapas y Tintos where the old Kaffa Cafe was on NE 2nd Ave. and 35th but who knows when it will open.

Eden South Beach opens tonight at the old Talula space.