The Whet Palette New Restaurant

Star Power at Fiola Miami

What’s that? Another restaurant has opened in Miami? Prices are high? Prime hours are blocked on OpenTable? Packed at all hours? So? What else is new? Sounds just like another day in South Florida. Restaurateurs, chefs, investors and everyone in between continue flocking south, trying to sway their way into our hearts and stay for the long-haul. Ha! If it was only that simple. Curious and hungry (as usual), I made a reservation and have visited several times. Spoiler alert: I can now say I am swayed and impressed.

by The Whet Palette

Habitat by José Mendín

I waited for the dust to settle before visiting the new Habitat by José Mendín. The space, formerly occupied by Chef Tom Colicchio’s Beachcraft, seemed untouched. And that’s a good thing. The interiors, in sandy neutrals and beachy woods, remain as stunning as ever. Now, I”m hopeful this new venture by the Food Comma Hospitality Group (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Pubbelly Sushi, Baja Bao, PB Ysla, and PB Burger) can survive our temperamental dining scene. This is Miami, after all, restaurant revolving-door capital. Offering a complete sea to table experience, Mendín’s new dishes aim to apply modern techniques to create new flavor profiles drawing from Spanish, Latin and Asian traditions.

by The Whet Palette

Amara at Paraiso

This new project by Miami boss, chef and owner Michael Schwartz (Michael’s Genuine, Genuine Pizza, Harry’s Pizzeria, and Fi’Lia), will not be a hidden gem for long.

by Brenda Popritkin

Forte dei Marmi: A league of their own

Forte dei Marmi is different and in a league of their own. The vibe, refined but approachable. Service, casual and unpretentious. The food, unapologetically Mellino. Lucky us! What an extraordinary addition to our culinary landscape!

by The Whet Palette

Fi’lia

Located on the ground level of the SLS Brickell and just one week into service, the very modern and chic, Fi’Lia already functions like a seasoned restaurant veteran. Considering the restaurant was full to capacity during my visit, that’s a good thing. I’ve been to Michael’s Genuine more times than I can remember, as well as the former […]

by The Whet Palette

Pisco y Nazca

Pisco y Nazca sits amidst a buzzing Town & Country Mall in its surrounding Kendall suburbia. I’m not sure, but I think the last time I was in the area might have been when I visited Cafe Iguana. In college. In the 90s. Kidding. I think. I am happy to report that it looks completely different now. […]