I wouldn’t embark on a two-hour journey to dine at a restaurant unless I’m certain of the chef’s exceptional talent, even if it was an invitation for a friend and family welcome. However, my recent experience at Nimo Coastal Mediterranean Restaurant, located north of Jupiter, Florida in Tequesta, proved beyond satisfying. Chef Niven Patel, whom I admire greatly, is renowned for his culinary prowess, notably at Ghee Indian Kitchen in Kendall, a place I brave through dreadful traffic to indulge in his exquisite cuisine. Formerly at Mamey and Orno’s in the Thesis Hotel, Chef Patel has now ventured into his new restaurant Erba, an Italian gem in Coral Gables. His impressive accolades, including recognition from Michelin and the James Beard Awards, precede him as he brings his culinary finesse to Palm Beach County. Along with his esteemed business partner Mohamed Alkassar, they are poised to unveil their latest creation to the public, which opened on February 8, 2024, with Chef de Cuisine Amir Diaz leading the culinary team.
Sourcing much of the produce from nearby Kai-Kai farms, as well as his own Rancho Patel Farm in Homestead, and locally sourced fish and seafood from the nearby ocean, this welcoming neighborhood restaurant hits all the right notes- from the decor to the warm service and stellar food.
Nestled within a bustling strip plaza, Nimo Coastal Mediterranean Restaurant occupies the former Joscō Gardens space at 157 US1 N in Tequesta. With meticulous attention to detail, the team worked tirelessly until the eleventh hour, ensuring a timely debut for their soft opening, which I had the pleasure of attending. Stepping inside, the ambiance exudes a chic bistro vibe, accommodating approximately 60 guests indoors amidst a palette of soft peach and green hues, complemented by golden yellow fabric chairs, stripped-back accents, and leatherette banquets. A striking indoor/outdoor bar serves as the centerpiece, overlooking a picturesque patio seating approximately 70 patrons amidst lush greenery, complete with a retractable roof for alfresco dining in fair weather, and a cozy lounge area up front.
The heart of the restaurant, the open kitchen, boasts a wood-fired pizza oven, nestled in one corner, emitting tantalizing aromas that set the stage for a culinary journey. The vibrant atmosphere buzzes with an energetic staff, while the music gradually crescendos as the evening unfolds. The name Nimo pays homage to the culinary duo behind the venture, a mashup of Niven and Mohamed, reflecting their collaborative spirit.
Nimo embraces the farm-to-table ethos, featuring an eclectic menu from Spanish, Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. They served green chickpea hummus with wood-fired pita, the Nimo Caesar with falafel croutons, and a wood-fired prawn scampi in sun-dried tomato butter, which were all delicious. Not forgetting the smoked short rib pappardelle, the Spanish style Nimo lamb chops, evoking Chef Patel’s homage to Mohamed’s childhood in Spain, and a juicy, succulent roasted Belle & Evans chicken atop a creamy polenta with salsa verde.
To complement the delectable fare, Nimo boasts a signature cocktail list featuring a dozen handcrafted libations, including the refreshing Bramble G&T made with Broker’s gin, Creme de Mure, muddled blackberries, and mint. Wine aficionados can delight in a thoughtfully curated selection of 10 wines by the glass and an extensive list showcasing the majority of varietals from California, France, Italy, Argentina, Spain, and New Zealand.
Save room for dessert, as Nimo’s offerings are a delightful finale to any meal, with standout selections like the outstanding key lime layer cake and a refreshing lemon sorbet accented with drizzled olive oil over the berries, which enhanced their sweetness.
Across the board, the culinary experience at Nimo was nothing short of excellent, leaving no doubt that their new venture will be a resounding success. As for me, I can only hope to persuade Chef Patel to bring his culinary prowess a little closer to home… maybe Miami?
Recommended with enthusiasm.
Happy dining.
Shanea
02/11/2024
