I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about a new restaurant that opened in late April 2024 in Miami, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its hype. Nestled in the beautifully restored 1921 historic Moore building at 191 NE 40th Street in the heart of the Design District, the space has been transformed into an ultra-chic and contemporary haven. Located on the main floor of the Moore building, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Zaha Hadid, this restaurant is a stunning addition to Miami’s dining scene. The landmark building, beautifully restored to its former glory, and then some, features a dramatic four-level atrium that once served as a furniture showroom. Now it houses a vibrant restaurant with seating up to 140, a private members club, which includes a restaurant, private dining areas, a karaoke room, a billiards room, another lounge, a board room, and several private areas, as well as a gallery on the fourth floor that features rotating artists and a soon to open exclusive 13 room hotel. Note that hotel guests get access to the member’s club.
The dining room exudes glamour and style, harmonizing yet contrasting with the architecture of the Moore building. Central to the space is the sculpture Elastika, commissioned by Dacra president Craig Robins for the inaugural Design Miami in 2005, which extends gracefully along the atrium and acts as a visual focal point. Each table is elegantly set with exquisite dishware and glassware, complemented by a lively bar accommodating 18 guests. The colour palette features soft greens and creams, plush velvet banquets, and artfully designed seating. Oh, and I must also mention the beautiful floors. The atmosphere buzzed with social energy, and I was eager to see if the food matched this captivating environment.
I’m pleased to say that it does. Under the leadership of executive chef Joe Anthony-who has an impressive culinary background at renowned establishments like Daniel, The Modern, and as culinary director for several years at one of my favourite New York Restaurants, 2-star Michelin Gabriel Kreuther. Working alongside him as chef de cuisine is Seth Blumenthal and pastry chef Stephany Bastuardo, the menu offers a global approach to American cuisine. It emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients, changing regularly. While portions are smaller, they are perfect for sharing for two.
The menu is thoughtfully divided into “Beginnings“, “Mains” and “Endings“. From the cold appetizer section, we tried the citrus kingfish crudo with finger lime, black sesame oil, and fig leaf leche de tigre sauce. Though tasty, it lacked the intensity I hoped for. The choices in the hot selections were more satisfying: the bread service featured Mamma Leone Bakery’s sourdough bread, perfectly toasted and served with rich cultured butter from Vermont, alongside a bowl of delightful whipped Parmesan cream on a bed of vegetable jus. The Florida sun shrimp bruschetta topped with coconut cream kale, crispy garlic, and crispy Parmesan prosciutto really stood out.
For mains, we chose two seafood dishes: spice-seared diver scallops resting on a vibrant snap pea purée, garnished with pickled Swiss chard and aji pepper jam, and an olive oil poached red snapper accompanied by summer squash, basil crema, and crowned with a paper-thin crispy tuille. Each dish was innovative and beautifully presented.
Dessert was equally enticing, with four delectable choices on offer. We indulged in the pot de crème, featuring a rich chocolate custard topped with candied pecans and a coffee ganache. My personal favourite, was the refreshing tropical sundae, a delightful combination of mango and passion fruit ice cream, spiced ganache, and a luscious date and dark chocolate sauce. To complement our meal, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list, signature cocktails, and an impressive array of spirits. We opted for a Rosenthal, a gin Negroni infused with peaches, which was a perfect choice.
Emphasizing sustainable farming, the chef collaborates with local farmers to source fresh ingredients. Elastika serves as a culinary canvas, where eclectic dishes, soulful cooking, art, and design come together seamlessly. I have no doubt, that Elastika’s stunning design and inviting cuisine will make it one of Miami’s hottest dining destinations.
Recommended.
Happy dining,
Shanea
09/26/2024
