Elcielo has already received a Michelin star for its Miami location (as well as it’s Washington, D.C., outpost). And now the Colombian restaurant is trying its hand at a second restaurant in the 305.
The chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, known as “Juanma,” has just opened an Elcielo at the SLS South Beach, as the spot aims to expand its international reach. Unlike the other locations, this one will offer an à la carte menu, as an alternative to the $258 menu served at the first Miami outpost. Some classic dishes will still be available, alongside those unique to the SLS dining room.
Corn Caviar
Christopher Hwang
“We are thrilled to bring our second Elcielo Miami location to the beautiful SLS South Beach—an iconic destination recognized for its exceptional dining offerings and dynamic atmosphere,” Juanma said in a statement. “Known for its opulent style and world-class guest experience, this property provides the perfect backdrop for Elcielo’s expansion.”
Among the offerings will be decadent truffle buñuelos (a type of Latin American donut) with torched foie gras and crab empanadas with Caribbean spices. Guava BBQ pork ribs come served with smoked vegetable rice and pickled radishes; ceviche gets a fruity kick from passionfruit milk; and roasted quail is stuffed with mushrooms and guanciale. The Tree of Life, found on the other location’s tasting menu, is a made-for-social-media combination of cassava, cheese, and basil. And while there may be no “Chocotherapy” on the menu, there is the traditional Colombian meringue-based dessert merengón, made with the spirit Aguardiente.
Ceviche
Sergio Guerrero
After first opening in Colombia (with locations in Medellín and Bogotá), Juanma opened the original Elcielo Miami in 2015….