Toronto’s Michelin-Worthy MIMI Chinese Officially Opens In Miami Beach & It’s Worth The Hype

To end the 2024 year with a big bang, Big Hug Hospitality, the Toronto-based group behind some of Canada’s most celebrated dining destinations, made its international debut with the opening of MIMI Chinese in the heart of South Beach. Renowned for its modern take on regional Chinese cuisine and old-school hospitality, the restaurant arrives as one of the most highly anticipated culinary openings of the year.

Photo Credit: Daniel Neuhaus

Celebrated as a trailblazer in Toronto’s dining scene, MIMI Chinese is known for reimagining traditional dishes from regions such as Guangdong, Sichuan, Hong Kong, and Hunan, while maintaining an unwavering dedication to authenticity and quality. The Toronto location quickly gained a loyal following and earned Michelin recognition, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination.

“We’re thrilled to introduce MIMI Chinese to Miami Beach, a city that shares our passion for food, culture, and celebration,” said David Schwartz, Culinary Director and recipient of the 2023 Michelin Guide’s Toronto Young Chef Award. “Our goal is not to elevate a food culture but to honor it while bringing our creative twist to the table.”

Photo Credit: Daniel Neuhaus

MIMI Chinese’s Miami Beach menu reflects the restaurant’s dedication to preserving culinary heritage while pushing boundaries. Showcasing a diverse array of dishes, each menu item highlights its region of origin. Signature plates such as the Hunan Chili Sea Bass, Shrimp Toast, Hidden Crispy Chicken, House Char Siu, and the Four Foot Belt Noodle exemplify the restaurant’s ability to combine traditional techniques with modern presentation. With a focus on communal dining, large sharing plates take center stage, celebrating the social essence of Chinese cuisine.

“At MIMI Chinese, we revive the essence of the past through a blend of new and nostalgic flavors,” said Executive Chef Braden Chong. “The quality of food and ingredients is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited to infuse Miami Beach’s vibrant energy into our dining experience.”

Photo Credit: Daniel Neuhaus

The Miami Beach location mirrors the Toronto original’s elegant yet playful ambiance. Dim lighting and rich red accents create a warm and intimate atmosphere, with luxurious glossy banquettes and sharply dressed servers in bowties adding a touch of sophistication. Guests are greeted with the aromatic scent of Sichuan peppercorns toasting in woks, while the intentionally windowless design fosters a fully immersive, transportive dining experience.

Photo Credit: Daniel Neuhaus

Brandon Marek, Managing Partner of Harlo Entertainment and Co-Founder of Big Hug Hospitality, played a pivotal role in bringing the concept to life in Miami Beach. “MIMI Chinese is not just a meal—it’s an experience,” Marek shared. “We’re proud to bring this unique and vibrant dining destination to South Beach.”

Enhancing the culinary offerings is a meticulously curated beverage program, featuring an extensive selection of wines, sakes, baijiu, and signature cocktails. Guests can enjoy rare barrel-aged sake varieties and magnum-sized bottles designed for sharing, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the menu.

Photo Credit: Daniel Neuhaus

With its highly anticipated arrival in Miami Beach, MIMI Chinese offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends culinary artistry, immersive ambiance, and world-class hospitality, promising to become a cornerstone of the city’s dynamic restaurant scene — ultimately making it a must-visit restaurant in 2025.