Introduction
Nestled in the vibrant city of Coral Gables, Florida, MIKA Coral Gables offers a dining experience that captures the essence of the Mediterranean Riviera. Led by renowned Chef Michael White, this restaurant blends elegance, innovation, and tradition. From fresh crudos to meticulously crafted pastas, MIKA delivers flavors that delight the palate. Its sophisticated ambiance and exceptional service make it a standout in Miami’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, MIKA Coral Gables promises an unforgettable meal. With its prime location and commitment to quality, this restaurant is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for fine dining enthusiasts.
About Chef Michael White
Chef Michael White is the driving force behind MIKA Coral Gables. With over three decades of experience, he has earned six Michelin stars for his New York restaurants, including the celebrated Marea. His James Beard Award highlights his mastery of coastal Italian cuisine. Before MIKA, White left his mark in South Florida with Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club and Mirabella Coastal Italian at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. At MIKA, he combines fresh, seasonal ingredients with innovative techniques, creating dishes that are both comforting and sophisticated. His passion for Mediterranean flavors shines through in every plate, making MIKA a testament to his culinary legacy.
A Storied Career in Fine Dining
White’s career is defined by excellence and innovation. His restaurants consistently earn praise for their exceptional food and elegant ambiance. At MIKA Coral Gables, he continues this tradition, offering a menu that balances tradition with modernity. His dedication to quality ensures that every dish reflects his expertise, from delicate seafood to hearty pastas. White’s influence extends beyond the kitchen, shaping Miami’s dining scene with his vision for approachable yet refined cuisine.
The Menu and Cuisine at MIKA Coral Gables
MIKA Coral Gables specializes in coastal Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing Italian coastal dishes. The menu showcases Chef White’s commitment to fresh ingredients and bold flavors, catering to a variety of tastes.From light crudos to indulgent entrees, every dish is crafted with precision. The restaurant’s focus on seafood and handmade pastas sets it apart, offering diners a true taste of the Riviera. With options for both seafood lovers and meat enthusiasts, MIKA ensures a memorable dining experience for all.
Crudos and Appetizers
The crudo selection at MIKA is a highlight, featuring fresh, raw seafood dishes that are light yet flavorful.Prices range from $24 to $38 for amberjack, sea bream, sea scallops, and bluefin tuna carpaccio. These dishes offer a refreshing start to the meal, showcasing the quality of sustainably sourced seafood. Each crudo is prepared with care, delivering clean, vibrant flavors that set the tone for the dining experience. Perfect for sharing, these appetizers reflect MIKA’s commitment to elegance and simplicity.
Pasta Perfection
MIKA’s handmade pastas are a standout, crafted with traditional techniques and premium ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes like fusilli with octopus and bone marrow, tagliatelle with ragu Bolognese, and spaghetti with blue crab, caviar, and lemon butter, priced between $28 and $38. These pastas balance rich flavors with delicate textures, showcasing White’s mastery of Italian cuisine. Each bite is a celebration of craftsmanship, making the pasta selection a must-try for any visitor to MIKA Coral Gables.
Seafood and Entrees
Seafood dominates MIKA’s entree menu, with dishes like salmon with crispy artichokes and salsa verde ($36), branzino with tomato livornase and lemon, and swordfish with braised sepia, chickpeas, capers, and olives. Meat lovers can savor Ligurian chicken ($36), veal parmigiana ($88), a 24-ounce ribeye ($98), or the 36-ounce Bistecca Fiorentina ($165). These entrees highlight the restaurant’s focus on bold, balanced flavors, using fresh, seasonal ingredients to elevate every dish. Whether you prefer seafood or steak, MIKA delivers a satisfying meal.
The Location and Ambiance
Located at 3007 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 248, MIKA Coral Gables sits in the heart of Coral Gables, a neighborhood known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and cultural charm. Spanning 8,195 square feet, the restaurant offers seating for 100 diners and a 35-seat private dining room with an outdoor lounge. Its elegant design, with warm tones and nautical accents, creates a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. MIKA’s prime location and sophisticated ambiance make it ideal for intimate dinners, celebrations, or business gatherings.
A Prime Spot in Coral Gables
Coral Gables, dubbed the “City Beautiful,” is a hub for fine dining and cultural experiences. MIKA complements this vibrant area, attracting both locals and tourists. Its close proximity to attractions like the Biltmore Hotel and the Venetian Pool adds to its appeal. The restaurant’s location in The Plaza Coral Gables, a mixed-use destination, enhances its accessibility, making it a convenient choice for diners seeking a memorable meal in a picturesque setting.
Elegant Dining Spaces
MIKA’s interior exudes sophistication, with a design that reflects its coastal Mediterranean theme. The spacious dining area and private room offer versatility for various occasions. The outdoor lounge provides a relaxed setting for al fresco dining, perfect for enjoying Miami’s warm weather. The ambiance strikes a balance between upscale and approachable, ensuring guests feel comfortable while indulging in a luxurious dining experience.MIKA’s attention to detail in its design elevates every visit.
Reviews and Reception
MIKA Coral Gables has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional dining experience. The restaurant holds a perfect 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor, ranking #182 out of 244 restaurants in Coral Gables. Diners praise its exquisite food, attentive service, and elegant ambiance. While some reviews note high prices for certain dishes, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the crudos and pastas as standout offerings. MIKA’s reputation, bolstered by Chef White’s expertise, positions it as a top dining destination in Miami.
What Diners Are Saying
Guests consistently commend MIKA for its fresh ingredients and skillful preparation.The seafood dishes, in particular, receive high praise for their quality and flavor. The service is described as knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing the dining experience. Some diners mention the upscale pricing, particularly for entrees like the veal parmigiana, but most agree that the quality justifies the cost. The restaurant’s elegant setting and warm hospitality make it a favorite for special occasions and fine dining enthusiasts.
Conclusion
MIKA Coral Gables is a culinary masterpiece, blending the talents of Chef Michael White with the charm of Coral Gables. Its coastal Mediterranean menu, elegant ambiance, and exceptional service create a dining experience that stands out in Miami’s vibrant food scene. From fresh crudos to indulgent entrees, every dish reflects a commitment to quality and flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a memorable meal, MIKA delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss the chance to savor the Riviera’s flavors in South Florida. Reserve your table today at MIKA’s website and embark on a culinary journey you’ll never forget.
Meta Description
Discover MIKA Coral Gables, a premier dining destination in Coral Gables, FL, led by Michelin-starred Chef Michael White. Enjoy coastal Mediterranean cuisine with fresh crudos, handmade pastas, and exquisite seafood, perfect for fine dining enthusiasts in Miami.
FAQs
What is the best way to experience the full menu at MIKA Coral Gables?
MIKA Coral Gables offers a prix fixe lunch menu, which is an excellent way to sample a variety of dishes at a set price. This menu includes tempting choices like beef carpaccio and snapper sandwiches. Additionally, you can start your dining experience at the bar and lounge, enjoying some of their exquisite crudos or appetizers before moving to the main dining room for entrees.
Are there any signature dishes that I must try at MIKA Coral Gables?
Yes, MIKA Coral Gables is known for several signature dishes that showcase Chef Michael White’s culinary expertise. Some must-try dishes include the langoustine carpaccio, lobster with burrata, fusilli with octopus and bone marrow, veal Milanese, and fritto misto. These dishes highlight the restaurant’s focus on fresh, coastal Mediterranean flavors.
What is the atmosphere like at MIKA Coral Gables? Is it suitable for special occasions?
The atmosphere at MIKA Coral Gables is described as elegant and sophisticated yet welcoming and relaxed. It is designed to be a neighborhood restaurant where guests can enjoy fine dining in a comfortable setting. This makes it an ideal location for special occasions, whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebration, or a business gathering.
Does MIKA Coral Gables have a bar or lounge area for drinks before or after dinner?
Yes, MIKA Coral Gables features a bar and lounge area where guests can enjoy aperitifs or after-dinner drinks. The lounge is open from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for aperitivo, offering a perfect spot to relax with a cocktail or a glass of wine before or after your meal.
What are the options for private dining or events at MIKA Coral Gables?
MIKA Coral Gables offers a 35-seat private dining room complete with an outdoor lounge, making it an excellent choice for hosting private events such as corporate gatherings, intimate celebrations, or special occasions. The restaurant’s versatile spaces and attentive service ensure a memorable and elegant event experience for all guests.
Key Citations
- MIKA Coral Gables Official Website
- Yelp Reviews for MIKA Coral Gables
- TripAdvisor Reviews for MIKA Coral Gables
- Miami Herald Article on MIKA Opening
- MapQuest Listing for MIKA Coral Gables
- Resy Guide to MIKA Coral Gables
- World Red Eye Preview of MIKA
- Restaurant Hospitality on MIKA Opening
- The Infatuation Review of MIKA
- Resy Booking for MIKA Coral Gables