José Mendín’s New Habitat At The 1 Hotel Shines With Authentic Spanish Cuisine

Photo Credit: Habitat

José Mendín, co-founder of the acclaimed Pubbelly restaurant group and recent founder of the new Food Comma Hospitality Group, has debuted Miami’s newest gem at the stunning 1 Hotel—Habitat. The impeccably executed concept presents innovative Spanish food in an Old World elegance meets New World vitality, that incorporates fresh, local ingredients.

Helming the kitchen is Chef Mendín, himself, serving as both the Executive Chef and the concept creator. Other members of the all-star team include Mendin’s partners Sergio Navarro and Maximiliano Silva.

Photo Credit: Habitat

Maintaining the ethos of the 1 Hotel, the restaurant evokes natural beauty by bringing the outside inside the restaurant and incorporating the elements—fire, earth, air and water—into the bold menu. Each dish presented is not only extraordinary in taste but also meticulous in detail, exemplifying Michelin-star techniques to present a beautiful work of art that goes above and beyond any traditional dining experience.

Photo Credit: Habitat

The menu is divided into five categories: Raw, Cooked, Wood Fire Grill, Charcuterie and Live Greens where diners can find a multitude of creative options. The menu highlights classic dishes from the Croquetas de Jamon Ibérico 5 Jotas, to vegan and vegetarian options like the Heirloom Beet Tartare, to the savory and raw Wagyu Milanesa Cruda seasoned with black soy, pickled romaine and freshly-picked tomatoes. Other standouts include the Habitat Caprese, made with fresh cherry tomatoes, basil oil, tomato water and mozzarella spheres; the flavorful Hamachi Aguachile—imagine a watermelon-based ceviche with a spicy kick from the fresh wasabi; and a Monkfish cooked and de-boned to perfection—a soft, mouth-wateringly delicious dish enhanced by a special spicy sauce on the side.

Photo Credit: Habitat

And of course, the desserts from pastry chef Patricia Larrea are equal stars of the show. Habitat enhances the dining experience with a whimsical dessert cart that comes around to each table in the restaurant, where guests can view and pick out sweet treats that catch their eyes from an array of truffles and macarons. Additionally, the menu boasts decadent dishes that are anything but ordinary, like the “Ningyo Yaki”—a sweet and flaky apple pie; Bread Pudding created with sweet potato “pie” custard, caramelized miso, chai tea ice cream and black sesame; as well as the classic Bread and Chocolate with dark chocolate and virgin olive oil.

Photo Credit: Habitat

In all, dining at Habitat is an exceptional culinary journey that takes guests on a trip to Spain without having to leave the Magic City— complete with impeccable service, inventive libations, standout menu items and a breathtaking, lively atmosphere.