13 June 12-18, 2025 miaminewtimes.com | browardpalmbeach.com NEW TIMES | CONTENTS | LETTERS | NEWS | NIGHT+DAY | CULTURE | CAFE | MUSIC | Ichimi 2330 Salzedo St., Coral Gables 305-960-7016 ichimiramenbar.com At Ichimi Ramen Bar in Coral Gables, every slurp of rich, savory broth feels like a hug in a bowl. With nine broth styles, a range of pro- teins from pork belly to tofu, and plenty of build-your-own options, it’s a choose-your- own-adventure for ramen lovers. Don’t miss the “Soul Ramen” or the spicy “Black Dragon,” and definitely don’t skip the hanjuku egg, a golden-yolked masterpiece that seals the deal. Kojin 2.0 804 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables 786-747-1404 kojin2.com Once a six-seat pop-up tucked behind a ramen shop, Kojin 2.0 has transformed into one of Coral Gables’ best-kept secrets. Chef Pedro Mederos blends Japanese techniques with Miami influences in a constantly evolving, hyper-seasonal menu (but the famed “Flanigan’s Caesar” is always on the menu and is a must-try). With an intimate, open-kitchen setting and desserts like a key lime ice cream sandwich, Kojin 2.0 delivers an experience that’s as surprising as it is unforgettable. Le Parc 997 N. Greenway Dr., Coral Gables 305-555-5678 leparccoralgables.com Ok, so I didn’t want to include any coffee- houses or bakeries in this list, but Le Parc is such a hidden gem that it had to be included in this list. Nestled within the historic Coral Gables Golf & Country Club, Le Parc offers a serene escape with its blend of Coral Gables- style Mediterranean architecture. Operated by Bonjour Bakery, the café serves French gourmet offerings, from flaky croissants and delicate pastries to hearty breakfasts and lunches, all crafted under the guidance of chef Eric G. Buffenoir. With its picturesque setting overlooking the Granada Golf Course and a welcoming ambiance, Le Parc is a hid- den gem. Luca Osteria 116 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables 305-381-5097 lucaosteria.com If you’re looking for the perfect weeknight Italian spot that’s a little hip and modern, then Luca Osteria on Giralda should top your list. Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli channels his Italian roots in this cozy spot named after his son, offering housemade pastas like bucatini all’amatriciana and pappardelle in a nutmeg- scented short rib ragù. Don’t skip the patate fritte, which are crispy potato bites drenched in truffle-scented parmigiano fonduta and crowned with a golden egg yolk, best paired with a glass of red wine (of course). Mika 3007 Ponce de Leon, Coral Gables 305-404-2200 mikacoralgables.com Mika in Coral Gables feels like you’ve trav- eled to a five-star restaurant somewhere in the Mediterranean, where chef Michael White masterfully weaves coastal Italian flavors into every dish. From fusilli tossed with tender octopus and bone marrow to a caviar-topped blue crab spaghetti, each plate deliv- ers the kind of finesse that defines White’s Riviera- style cooking. With its breezy elegance and pitch- perfect execution, Mika has quickly become one of Coral Gables’ most in-the-know restaurants for those looking for fine dining or to celebrate a big occasion. Shadow Wagyu 4702 S. Le Jeune Rd., Coral Gables 786-828-8023 shadowwagyu.com This one’s a classic “if you know, you know,” kinda spot in Miami. Shadow Wagyu in Coral Gables is a true hidden gem for locals who crave top-tier beef without the fuss of a traditional steakhouse. This unassuming butcher shop doubles as a cozy eatery, serv- ing up unforgettable dishes like wagyu burgers, chili dogs, and steak frites, all cooked in rich wagyu fat and bursting with flavor. With limited seating and a walk-in- only policy, it offers an exclusive, insider ex- perience that feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret (and expect locals mingling outside). Shingo 112 Alhambra Cir., Coral Gables shingomiami.com Amid Miami’s growing omakase scene, Shingo in Coral Gables rises above the rest. Led by fourth-generation master Shingo Akikuni, the 14-seat counter feels like a di- rect portal to Osaka, with pristine Japanese fish sliced with exacting precision and sea- soned with a delicate touch. Every detail, from the chef’s seamless service to the graceful sake pours, creates an immersive experience that’s as transporting as it is un- forgettable. Talavera Cocina Mexicana 2299 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables 305-444-2955 talaveracocinamexicana.com Talavera Cocina Mexicana has been a Coral Gables staple for years, serving vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine in a warm, colorful setting that feels timeless. It’s the kind of place where locals (myself included) have been gathering since high school for everything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. With its consistent quality, cozy atmosphere, and classic dishes like cochinita pibil and enchiladas suizas, Talavera has become woven into the fabric of the neighborhood. Tina in the Gables 4700 S. Le Jeune Rd., Coral Gables 305-666-0103 tinainthegables.com Tina in the Gables has quickly become Coral Gables’ go-to cozy brunch spot, thanks to the team behind Miami Slice and La Latina. With a minimalist, homey vibe and subtle Venezu- elan touches, like a bowl of chocolates at the door and upgraded arepas on the menu, it feels like brunch at a stylish friend’s house. The real star, though, is the bread-focused menu, especially the thick brioche French toast served with salted butter and a generous pour of maple syrup. Tullio 160 Andalusia Ave., Coral Gables 305-926-4208 tulliomiami.com Located in the heart of Coral Gables, just a few steps from Miracle Mile, Tullio is a little Venetian hidden gem owned by the family of Tullio Zanon, known in Venice as the “jew- eler of seafood.” His family continues his leg- acy by serving Mediterranean seafood tableside. As true Venetians, the restaurant is filled with Murano glass and pictures of Italy, and their focus is to transport guests to Ven- ice with each bite. This little spot is a true lo- cal favorite (my best friend who lives in Coral Gables even says so). Vinya Table 266 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables 305-203-4229 vinyawine.com An extension of sommelier and co-owner Al- legra Angelo’s Key Biscayne wine market, Vinya Table is one-half restaurant, one-half market from which you can grab any of Ange- lo’s thoughtfully curated bottle selections off the shelf to enjoy with your meal (in addition to a list of more than 40 wines available by the glass). When it comes to food, there’s the obligatory build-your-own charcuterie board, as well as sections dedicated to pasta, meat, and seafood. But don’t skip over the small plates. Try the morcilla spring rolls, loamy Spanish blood sausage encased in a crisp Ma- deira wine-stained shell and served with a sweet onion marmalade, or the lamb baklava, prepared just like the Greek dessert but with a savory-sweet pairing of orange-glazed meat and crushed pistachios. Zucca Miami 162 Alcazar Ave., Coral Gables 786-580-3731 zuccamiami.com Since opening in March 2017 inside Coral Ga- bles’ historic Hotel St. Michel, Zucca has be- come a staple in Coral Gables, known for its traditional Italian cuisine, an award-winning wine cellar with more than 2,000 bottles, and warm hospitality. Chef de cuisine Manuel Garcia, who has honed his skills in Michelin- starred restaurants across Europe, leads the kitchen. His signature dishes, such as veal parmesan and stuffed zucchini flowers, have won the hearts of many loyal diners in the neighborhood and beyond. [email protected] Photo by billwisserphoto.com Ichimi is one of the best restaurants in Coral Gables
