The Whet Palette Órale, Tacology!

As if I needed another reason to love Miami’s newest star, Brickell Centre. Executive Chef Santiago Gomez (Cantina La Veinte, Nobu, and NYC’s Michelin-starred Daniel) is currently celebrating the one-year anniversary of his saucy hot spot. And let me tell you, when it comes to Mexican food, la fiesta no termina en Tacology.

The larger than life space drew me in faster than a tequila shot on Cinco de Mayo, even on a Wednesday night. With its vibrant decor, upbeat jams, and alboroto vibe, I drank the ~~Kool-Aid~~ Mexican Coquito and fell in love hard.

A smart tablet waited for me at the table. I methodically planned my attack, as I swiped left and right and tried to find the best combination from the different mercado-style stations. Can you please bring me a guacamole sampler while I decide what to order? What’s that? I need to fire it myself off the app? Done! Less than five minutes later, I happily dipped my chips into the three varieties before me and perfected my order strategy. Síganme los buenos!

WHAT I TRIED:

I would redo my dinner at Tacology, eyes closed, any day, any time. How colorful and gorgeous is this taco playground? And techy too? How can they possibly execute an authentic menu that doesn’t feel Disneyfied? Well, they have successfully and subtly updated traditional Mexican recipes. The Shrimp Tacos (with a crisp quinoa exterior, avocado, and cilantro) arrived in a glass, dipped into a haunting agave-chipotle sauce and ready for enjoyment. And enjoy I did. Nothing like the experience of a “gotcha” first bite. That trend continued throughout the night and ended with two spectacular desserts.

Wait for it. This flan snob approves of the Caramel Flan. Que dijo? Si amigos. A group of mini flans arrived artfully plated and begged to be devoured. What topped that for me? If you know me well, you know the answer is GUAVA. The alluring Guava Cheesecake delivered on looks and, more importantly, taste. Órale, Tacology. Muy bien. ¡Hasta la próxima!