Miami’s culinary scene is heating up with the arrival of new restaurants that promise to dazzle your taste buds and elevate your dining experiences. From Mexican coastal cuisine to modern Japanese flair and an unparalleled kosher concept, these new additions cater to every craving and occasion. Here’s a closer look at Miami’s most buzzworthy openings:
Ensenada
Prepare to be transported to the vibrant coasts of Latin America at Ensenada, the latest venture from Chef Luis Herrera and his accomplished team of Mandolin Aegean Bistro Alumni. Drawing inspiration from Mexico’s Baja coastline and his Venezuelan roots, Chef Herrera, himself a James Beard semi-finalist, crafts a menu that’s as inventive as it is comforting. Ceviches infused with Peruvian and Venezuelan twists, agua chiles that celebrate bold spice, and Ensenada-style fish tacos are just the beginning. Miami-exclusive dishes, like the ‘al pastor’ swordfish tacos and a raw mariscos platter, make this Biscayne Boulevard spot a must-visit.
The drink program showcases one of Miami’s most extensive agave selections, featuring small-batch mezcals and craft cocktails tailored for the Magic City. Pair these with a concha ice cream sandwich crafted by Pachamama Helados, and you’ve got the perfect finish to a stellar meal.
The ambiance is equally enticing. Housed in the Vagabond Hotel, the restaurant leans into its art deco charm with expansive windows, an open kitchen, and a plant-filled terrace that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Expect an inviting, light-filled space with industrial touches like Venetian plaster and concrete floors—a perfect backdrop for this culinary gem.
Ensenada is located at 7301 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, Florida 33138. For more information, visit their official website.
Maple & Ash
For an indulgent dining experience unlike any other, Maple & Ash is set to impress at Miami Worldcenter in early February. Spanning an impressive 22,000 square feet across two stories, this modern steakhouse redefines luxury dining with a playful edge. Helmed by two-Michelin-star Chef Danny Grant, the menu is a bold statement of decadence, featuring standout dishes like the fire-roasted seafood tower and the daring I Don’t Give a F*@k tasting menu.
The second floor offers the full Maple & Ash experience, where wood-fired steaks and seafood reign supreme, paired with a curated wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. On the first floor, the upcoming Eight Bar promises a vibrant, casual counterpart to the opulence above.
The atmosphere mirrors the grandeur of the menu. Sleek, modern design elements blend with warm lighting and plush furnishings to create a space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself, Maple & Ash ensures every visit feels like a special occasion.
Maple & Ash will be located at 699 NE 1st Avenue, Miami. For more information, visit their official website.
Uchiko
Early this year, Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour will welcome Uchiko, the East Coast debut of Chef Tyson Cole’s celebrated concept. A sibling to the iconic Uchi, Uchiko means “child of Uchi” and takes a bold turn with a menu centered on smoke, char, and the artistry of the yakitori grill.
The “from the hearth” section showcases perfectly smoked and cured dishes, including whole branzino and tomahawk steak, alongside expertly crafted nigiri and small plates. Fresh fish flown in daily ensures every bite embodies Chef Cole’s commitment to quality and creativity.
To complement the dynamic flavors, the beverage program offers an impressive selection of Japanese whiskies, premium sakes, and imaginative craft cocktails. The sleek, modern design and intimate setting complete the sensory journey, making Uchiko a standout destination for food enthusiasts and Japanese cuisine aficionados alike.
Uchiko will be located in Sunset Harbour, Miami Beach 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Mutra
Set to open later this month, Mutra aims to deliver an unparalleled dining experience with the freshest farm-to-table ingredients in an impressive space of over 2,000 square feet. Rooted in tradition and infused with innovation, Mutra is the brainchild of Chef Raz Shabtai, who honors his Israeli heritage with a menu that defies easy categorization. Drawing from the flavors of Levantine, Galilean, and North African cuisines, Chef Shabtai’s dishes are inspired by the vibrant culinary tapestry of Jerusalem.
Signature offerings include the Yemenite street taco, featuring freshly made lachuch bread filled with slow-cooked lamb, and the one-thousand-layer skewer, a meticulously crafted dish served with smoky tahini and Campari tomato foam. For an elevated experience, book a chef’s tasting at the open kitchen bar, where a seven-course menu is paired with exclusive wines and liquors.
The ambiance is equally thoughtful, with handmade tableware imported from Spain, Italy, and Turkey and a design that invites guests to feel at home in its spacious, open layout. Twice-weekly street food nights and a Sunday brunch are already generating buzz, making Mutra a destination that redefines kosher dining in Miami.
Mutra is located at 2188 NE 123 Street, Miami.