Larios on the Beach originally opened in 1992, when Ocean Drive was about the hippest thing MIami had going for it. After losing some of its luster, the avenue is poised to make a comeback now that crowds are heading to Lincoln Road (and Lulu Lemon booted out the Van Dyke Cafe.) Unlike the Van Dyke, the News Cafe is still there, and so is Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s original Cuban eatery, which has been revamped from top-to-bottom and is ready to make its grand debut today.
Interiors are new and gleaming, and include beautiful mosaics and an amazing new sculpture by acclaimed Miami artist Carlos Betancourt in collaboration with Alberto Latorre. The piece was commissioned by the Estefans and includes musical objects steeped in history including drumsticks from Shelia E, Tito Puente and Emily Estefan, a microphone used by Ricky Martin and Mrs. Estefan herself, and Shakira’s harmonica.
Music is at the heart of everything at the restaurant, which includes Grupo Tiempo al Tiempo, the house band who will be playing live every evening from Wednesday to Sunday. The band will provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying their new menu, created with Executive Chef Odell Torres, which still includes a number of the traditional favorites. For the new twist look for sweet and salty bacon-wrapped maduros, black bean hummus served with plantain chips and tropical cevice. There will also be a guilt-free lighter menu designed by Gloria that features baked plantain chips, grilled, marinated grouper and baked sweet plantains for those who want to keep themselves ready to dance at all times.
