I’ll admit that I’m not an expert on Ecuadorian cuisine—I’ve only been to Ecuador once. And until now, I had never found great Ecuadorian food in North America. That all changed with Cotoa, an exciting new restaurant, redefining expectations.
Located inside The B1OOM, a newly opened mini food hall at 100 Biscayne Blvd (across from Bayside), Cotoa is one of three distinct concepts co-owned by three friends and partners. The space is bright, modern, and thoughtfully designed, with a mix of counter seating, high tops, and tables. Wood accents, greenery, and bistro-style tile flooring add warmth, while open kitchens allow guests to watch the chefs at work.
At Cotoa, chef Alejandra Espinoza is at the helm, bringing Ecuadorian flavors to life with a globally inspired twist. Reservations are available—a rare perk for a food hall—and guests can choose between an $85 multi-course tasting menu or à la carte options.
We kicked-off our meal with craft cocktails from the central bar, which serves all three restaurants. Then came the first bite—crisp, delicate empanadas stuffed with figs, cheese, and hazelnuts, paired with cacao honey. They were simply outstanding.
The ceviche selection is impressive, and we opted for the Langostino Salsero, featuring plump, tender shrimp in a zesty passion fruit sauce, complemented by crisp green mango, crunchy almonds, and a sprinkle of black sesame. The flavors were bold and refreshing, though I would have prefer a slightly sweeter sauce.
Chef Espinoza also bakes her own bread, and it’s excellent. We savored the cornbread with smoked butter and the Pan de Yuca—a heavenly cheese bread roll served with mamey chutney.
For mains, the standout was a divine tortellini dish filled with sweet plantain and shredded chicken, bathed in a slow-cooked sauce and topped with crispy cheese and avocado. We also enjoyed the fish of the day (mahi-mahi), marinated in coffee and wrapped in an Amazonian banana leaf, served with crispy patacones and fragrant coconut rice.
To finish, we indulged in the ‘Chocopop’—a molten chocolate lava cake made with 70% Ecuadorian fine chocolate, sprinkled with sea salt, and served with passion fruit ice cream studded with chocolate bits. It was the perfect finale to an unforgettable meal.
Cotoa is a true hidden gem, offering unique and exciting Ecuadorian flavors at an exceptional level. If you can look past its food hall setting, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most innovative and delicious dishes in Miami. Chef Espinoza undoubtedly deserves a standalone restaurant, and with Cotoa already earning a Michelin nod within just eight months, it seems only a matter of time.
Part of the Somos hospitality group, this concept is pushing culinary boundaries while delivering high-quality, authentic flavors. Open daily from 12–9 PM (closed Sundays), with nearby parking available. Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
03/15/2025
