Miami’s Authentic International Cuisine
Now may not be the best time to book a flight, but that doesn’t mean your yearning for international food has gone away. Not to fret though—you can get a taste of some authentic international cuisine without even leaving Miami! Have Aztec-inspired Mexican in Wynwood, scrumptious Nikkei cuisine in Brickell, and even Spanish paella and tapas in Coral Gables!
BAKAN
Mexican
2801 N.W. 2nd Ave., Miami
bakanwynwood.com
Bakan is introducing guests to Mexican cuisine that incorporates the daily diet of the Aztecs. The 180-seat restaurant and bar ties in a fun, lively environment with the art of handcrafted tortilla making and a four-tiered glass case filled with more than 500 mezcals and tequilas. Bakan’s authenticity can be seen in their use of ancestral organic corn that they import from Mexico, which they then use to hand-make their tortillas one by one. Their ultimate goal is for each diner to be immersed in the decadent Aztec history through each bite.
BULLA GASTRO BAR
Spanish
2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables
bullagastrobar.com
Spanish tapas restaurant Bulla Gastrobar has three South Florida locations for a reason. Locals can’t get enough of their sensational Spanish dishes! There’s the Paella Mixta, which takes guests on a culinary journey to Spain with Valencia-style rice, calamari, clams, shrimp, fish, chicken, sofrito de calamari, and saffron. Another highlight is the tapas, which are made by following an “alta cocina” approach by applying innovative techniques to traditional recipes to create modern yet authentic dishes. Bulla Gastrobar also offers house made sangrias, and delectable plates like Huevos “Bulla” and Patatas Bravas.
BUYA IZAKAYA + YAKITORI
Japanese
250 N.W. 24th St., Miami
buyarestaurants.com
For authentic Japanese street food head to Buya, a Japanese soul food eatery and bar. The restaurant brings the izakaya concept to life; izakayas are sit-down sake shops that the Japanese use to imbibe, typically after work. Buya honors this traditional concept and leads guests on a multi-sensory journey with their mouthwatering plates. Inspired by indigenous ingredients and techniques from Japan, the izakaya menu features yakitori and wagyu kushiyaki, which are grilled over binchotan charcoal; a duck dumpling hotpot, and Tokyo street corn, amongst others.
GHEE INDIAN KITCHEN
Indian
8965 S.W. 72nd Pl., Kendall
gheemiami.com
Ghee Indian Kitchen is one of the most celebrated restaurants in Miami, thanks to its owner, Nivel Patel’s, unique approach to gathering ingredients. Most are sourced from Patel’s Homestead-based farm, which are then used in his farm-to-table Indian dishes. Here you can savor different types of curry, like the Yellow Moong Dal Thadka, made with local squash, eggplant, cumin, red pepper, garlic, chilies, curry leaves and more, to hot oil or ghee, a type of clarified butter. There’s also various types of naan bread, chutneys, dosas (South Indian rice pancake), and other tasty treats!
HUTONG MIAMI
Northern Chinese
600 Brickell Ave., Miami
hutong-miami.com
For Northern Chinese fare, you’ll want to make a reservation at Hutong Miami, located in Brickell. From its home in Hong Kong, Hutong brings a fresh take on Chinese cuisine with its occasionally fiery Northern Chinese dishes that integrate gastronomic influences from surrounding provinces, such as Beijing’s roast duck, Sichuan’s fiery and famous chili peppers, and Shanghai’s fresh seafood. Expect a diverse menu with flavorsome entrees like Red Lantern, served in a traditional Chinese wood basket with red Sichuan dried chilies and crispy pieces of soft-shell crab. Delish!
OSAKA
Nikkei
1300 Brickell Bay Dr., Miami
osakanikkei.com
Osaka, Miami’s newest Brickell hot spot, specializes in Nikkei, a type of cuisine that combines Japanese and Peruvian influences. An ancient flavor found in centuries-old Peruvian dishes and medicines can be found here, as Osaka includes these unique ingredients in every dish. For instance, Huacatay, the term for black mint coined by the Incas, is known for its antiviral and medicinal properties. The distinct flavor features hints of basil, tarragon, and lime; and guests can find this age-old herb dressed elegantly atop the Osaka Steak.
By Aaliyah Pasols