“In Santiago we trust.” That’s exactly what we were thinking after trying the new Mexican concept from Cantina La Veinte’s Executive Chef Santiago Gomez. Unlike Cantina, Tacology at Brickell City Centre is a more casual affair that emphasizes street food creations but also brings some upscale dishes along for the ride. Items are meant to be shared, but here’s the thing: The food is so good that you won’t want to.
Southern food is bae. It’s hearty, personable and fun on its own, but The Social Club’s Blair Wilson is kicking it up a notch with his personal touch on the restaurant’s latest menu. This isn’t the time-tested American-inspired fare you’re used to — it’s so much better.
Brickell residents and visitors have a new place to get their taco fix: Coyo Taco. The Wynwood eatery opened a second location at Axis Brickell (1111 SW 1st Avenue) back in May, bringing its beloved Mexican street food experience across town. Guests can expect many of the classics from the original outpost, plus several items specific to the Brickell branch.
When we’re in Brickell and in the mood for Mexican food, we usually think of Cantina La Veinte. However, that’s not a place we can afford to eat at every day … but Coyo Taco is. Having visited Coyo’s Wynwood location and the now-defunct Shore Club location, we know to expect quality food at a reasonable price point.
For us, Coyo Taco is just what the neighborhood needs: a reliable fast-casual Mexican restaurant that won’t break the bank and is open late. And now with even more delicious items on the menu, it’s no surprise that Coyo has quickly become a neighborhood favorite.
If there’s one thing we love about Mediterranean food (besides its vibrant flavors), it’s that it’s ideal for sharing. We’ve had some of our best conversations with close friends while scarfing down mezzes, flatbreads, rice and other signature cuisine. The fare just inspires conversation and camaraderie, and Cleo takes it to the next level with not just good food but a homey ambiance to boot.
When we visited Barceloneta for a media dine a few weeks back, we weren’t expecting much. The Sunset Harbour restaurant, which specializes in Spanish Mediterranean cuisine, has been a staple of the area since 2011, but we just never had any urge to stop by; our “just-okay” experience at their now-shuttered South Miami location probably had something to do with it.
But life is all about second chances, right? Well, we’re glad we went back. Little did we know that we would enjoy one of our favorite meals of 2016 here — and one that had us immediately asking, “Did we just become best friends?”