Brickell’s Newest Hotspot Is Hommage To Old Miami Charm

MIAMI, FL — Brickell’s newest hotspot is an hommage to old Miami charm. Known for Cuban-American favorites like churasco, croquetas and cafecito, Latin Cafe 2000, has now landed in one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods, but with a new twist — an upscale bar and the first Cuban ventanita to grace Brickell.

"The area is booming right now. Brickell is the place to be," declared Owner Eric Castellanos in an interview with Patch. "We thought it was avoiding the market. No authentic Cuban food. No ventanita. No classic cocktails with the little twist. We are the first to introduce that to Brickell."

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The coffee window of Latin Cafe 2000 — commonly known as the ventanita among Miami's Cuban-American community — is a Brickell first and likely to produce the same kind of lively discussions on Miami politics, Cuba and life in the Magic City that one would find on Calle Ocho.

"It has the edge that Brickell needs. It has a full bar," asserted Castellanos. "It still has the same authentic Cuban food, the same flair — just a lot more edgy for Brickell."

With four locations, the bar on Brickell is the most striking differentiator from the other locations with polished brass shelving set on a Carrera marble backdrop framed with classic Cuban tiles and shutters. A happy hour menu will be available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily, featuring reduced food and drink prices in the bar.

"We'll have $5, $6 and $7 little bites," Castellanos explained. "You can obviously order from the full menu, and we'll have live music, ladies nights."

The overall design of the Brickell location is considered tropical modern with a retro twist. The restaurant has period furniture and its decor is highlighted with brass accents and a classic Cuban tile mosaic to enhance the 1950s vibe.

Despite all of the design touches, the restaurant is meant to be an affordable option in an area that can be pricey at times. It will also feature a weekend brunch.

"We know the formula. The formula works" Castellanos explained. "Good service, great food, quality service and cleanliness. That's basically our claim to fame."

The new Brickell location boasts a 3,176-square foot interior as well as 1,800-square-feet of outdoor dining space that can be configured for live entertainment.

If you visit the Brickell location, be sure to check out the colorful display of stovetop Cuban coffee pots hanging overhead as you walk in. They are a take on this summer's whimsical Umbrella Sky art installation in Coral Gables.

"Everyone is going crazy on Instagram with this," added Castellanos. "It's perfect for Brickell. Everyone is asking me, when are we going to South Beach?"

Photo gallery by Paul Scicchitano