NIU Kitchen is a Mediterranean and Spanish restaurant located in downtown Miami. The restaurant is known for its artful take on Spanish cuisine and its unique culinary compositions that weave together the personal memories of Chef Deme Lomas, a Barcelona native, with Catalonia’s dynamic flavors.
The restaurant’s interior is cozy and intimate, with exposed brick walls and wooden tables that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu at NIU Kitchen features a variety of Spanish dishes, including steak tartare, cold tomato soup, wahoo tartare, and pa amb tomaquet. The restaurant also offers vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options.
NIU Kitchen has received positive reviews from both customers and critics, with many praising the restaurant’s innovative approach to Spanish cuisine. The restaurant has been featured in the MICHELIN Guide and has been recognized as a top restaurant in Miami. With its delicious food and cozy atmosphere, NIU Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Spanish cuisine in Miami.
History of NIU Kitchen
NIU Kitchen was founded by Chef Deme Lomas, a Barcelona native who moved to Miami in 2010. Chef Lomas worked in several restaurants before opening NIU Kitchen in 2014. The restaurant’s name “NIU” means “nest” in Catalan, which reflects the cozy and intimate atmosphere that Chef Lomas wanted to create.
NIU Kitchen quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, receiving critical acclaim and awards for its innovative take on Catalan cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, showcasing Chef Lomas’s personal memories and experiences from his hometown.
NIU Kitchen’s success has led to the opening of a sister wine bar, NIU, located next door. The wine bar offers a selection of Spanish and Catalan wines, as well as small plates to complement the drinks.
Despite its success, NIU Kitchen remains a small and intimate restaurant, with only 24 seats available. Chef Lomas and his team focus on providing a personalized and friendly dining experience, making sure each guest feels welcomed and satisfied.
Location and Ambiance
Location Details
NIU Kitchen is located in the heart of downtown Miami at 104 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132-2509. It is conveniently located just 0.4 miles from American Airlines Arena. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with bus route 7 stopping nearby. There is also ample street parking available in the area.
Ambiance Overview
NIU Kitchen has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a warm and inviting decor that creates a relaxed and comfortable dining experience. The restaurant has an open kitchen, which allows diners to watch as their food is prepared. The space is small, with only a few tables and a bar, but this adds to the intimate and personal feel of the restaurant.
The restaurant is decorated with rustic wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and warm lighting, which creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The ambiance is enhanced by the friendly and attentive staff, who are always willing to help with any questions or concerns.
Overall, NIU Kitchen has a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The intimate setting and friendly staff make it a great place to relax and enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine.
Menu Highlights
NIU Kitchen’s menu is inspired by Catalan cuisine and features a range of tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. Here are some of the menu highlights:
Signature Dishes
- Pa amb Tomaquet: This classic Catalan dish consists of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and tomato and drizzled with olive oil. NIU Kitchen’s version is simple yet flavorful and pairs well with any of the restaurant’s other dishes.
- Jamon Iberico: This Spanish cured ham is a must-try for any meat lover. NIU Kitchen serves it thinly sliced and beautifully presented on a wooden board.
- Pork Cheeks: These slow-cooked pork cheeks are tender and flavorful, served with a side of creamy polenta and topped with crispy shallots.
- Octopus Carpaccio: Thinly sliced octopus is served with a tangy lemon vinaigrette and topped with crunchy fennel and radish.
Beverage Selection
NIU Kitchen has an extensive wine list featuring a variety of Spanish and international wines. They also offer a selection of craft beers and creative cocktails.
- NIU Wine: This is the restaurant’s own label of wine, produced in collaboration with a local winery. The red blend is smooth and easy to drink, while the white is light and refreshing.
- Gin & Tonic: NIU Kitchen’s take on this classic cocktail features a variety of gin and tonic combinations, each with its own unique garnish.
- Sangria: This refreshing Spanish drink is perfect for sipping on a warm Miami evening. NIU Kitchen’s version is made with red wine, brandy, and fresh fruit.
Chef Profile
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqibxTliWV4&embed=true
NIU Kitchen is the brainchild of Chef Deme Lomas, who co-owns the restaurant with wine director Karina Iglesias. Chef Lomas was born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, where he developed a passion for cooking at a young age. He honed his skills at culinary school in Spain and worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants before returning to Miami to open NIU Kitchen.
Chef Lomas’ culinary style is rooted in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, but he also draws inspiration from his travels and his Venezuelan heritage. He focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and letting their natural flavors shine through. He also has a knack for creating innovative flavor combinations that surprise and delight diners.
One of Chef Lomas’ signature dishes at NIU Kitchen is the octopus carpaccio, which features thinly sliced octopus served with avocado, lime, and smoked paprika. He also puts his own spin on classic dishes like paella and croquetas, using unexpected ingredients and techniques to create something new and exciting.
Chef Lomas’ commitment to quality and creativity has earned NIU Kitchen numerous accolades, including a spot on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list. He continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the kitchen, while staying true to his roots and his passion for cooking.
Customer Reviews
Positive Reviews
NIU Kitchen has received a lot of positive feedback from customers. Many have praised the restaurant for its unique and delicious Catalan-style cuisine. Customers have also complimented the restaurant’s cozy and intimate atmosphere, as well as its excellent service. Some specific positive reviews include:
- “NIU Kitchen is hands down the best restaurant in Miami! The food is absolutely amazing and the service is top-notch. I highly recommend the octopus and the pork cheeks – they are to die for!”
- “I had an incredible meal at NIU Kitchen. The flavors were so unique and delicious. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. I can’t wait to go back!”
- “NIU Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant in Miami. The food is simply outstanding and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I highly recommend the croquetas and the paella.”
Constructive Criticisms
While NIU Kitchen has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some customers have offered constructive criticisms. Some customers have mentioned that the restaurant can be a bit pricey, and that the portions are on the smaller side. Others have mentioned that the restaurant can get quite crowded and noisy during peak hours. Some specific constructive criticisms include:
- “While the food at NIU Kitchen is absolutely delicious, it can be a bit pricey. I would recommend going with a group so you can try more dishes and split the bill.”
- “The portions at NIU Kitchen are on the smaller side, so if you’re really hungry you might need to order a few plates. That being said, the food is so delicious that it’s definitely worth it!”
- “NIU Kitchen can get quite crowded and noisy during peak hours, so if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dinner, it might be best to go during off-peak hours.”
Awards and Recognitions
NIU Kitchen has received numerous accolades since its opening in 2014. The restaurant has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Miami by publications such as Zagat and Eater. Additionally, Chef Deme Lomas was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award for Best Chef South in 2018 and 2019.
The restaurant has also been awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years, from 2017 to 2020. This prestigious award is given to restaurants that offer high-quality food at a reasonable price.
In addition to these awards, NIU Kitchen has also been featured in various publications, including The New York Times, The Miami Herald, and Food & Wine. The restaurant’s unique take on Catalan cuisine and its cozy, intimate atmosphere have garnered praise from both critics and diners alike.
NIU Kitchen’s success can be attributed to Chef Deme Lomas’ dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and his commitment to creating innovative dishes that showcase the flavors of Catalonia. The restaurant’s friendly and knowledgeable staff also contribute to its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Miami.
Contact Information
NIU Kitchen is located at 104 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132. Customers can contact the restaurant by phone at (786) 717-6711 or via email at [email protected]. NIU Kitchen also has an active presence on Instagram, where customers can follow them at @niukitchen and @niuwine.
Reservation Details
NIU Kitchen is a popular restaurant in Miami, and reservations are strongly recommended. Customers can make reservations through the restaurant’s website at resy.com or by calling the restaurant directly. NIU Kitchen also accepts walk-in customers, but availability cannot be guaranteed.
Operating Hours
NIU Kitchen is closed on Mondays. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM and Friday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. On Sundays, NIU Kitchen is open for brunch from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and for dinner from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Customers should note that operating hours may be subject to change, and it is recommended to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm availability.
NIU Kitchen accepts major credit cards, including American Express, Mastercard, and Visa. The restaurant also has a terrace area for outdoor dining, and customers can enjoy air conditioning inside the restaurant.
NIU Kitchen is a Mediterranean and Spanish restaurant located in downtown Miami. The restaurant is known for its artful take on Spanish cuisine and its unique culinary compositions that weave together the personal memories of Chef Deme Lomas, a Barcelona native, with Catalonia’s dynamic flavors.
The restaurant’s interior is cozy and intimate, with exposed brick walls and wooden tables that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu at NIU Kitchen features a variety of Spanish dishes, including steak tartare, cold tomato soup, wahoo tartare, and pa amb tomaquet. The restaurant also offers vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options.
NIU Kitchen has received positive reviews from both customers and critics, with many praising the restaurant’s innovative approach to Spanish cuisine. The restaurant has been featured in the MICHELIN Guide and has been recognized as a top restaurant in Miami. With its delicious food and cozy atmosphere, NIU Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Spanish cuisine in Miami.
History of NIU Kitchen
NIU Kitchen was founded by Chef Deme Lomas, a Barcelona native who moved to Miami in 2010. Chef Lomas worked in several restaurants before opening NIU Kitchen in 2014. The restaurant’s name “NIU” means “nest” in Catalan, which reflects the cozy and intimate atmosphere that Chef Lomas wanted to create.
NIU Kitchen quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, receiving critical acclaim and awards for its innovative take on Catalan cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, showcasing Chef Lomas’s personal memories and experiences from his hometown.
NIU Kitchen’s success has led to the opening of a sister wine bar, NIU, located next door. The wine bar offers a selection of Spanish and Catalan wines, as well as small plates to complement the drinks.
Despite its success, NIU Kitchen remains a small and intimate restaurant, with only 24 seats available. Chef Lomas and his team focus on providing a personalized and friendly dining experience, making sure each guest feels welcomed and satisfied.
Location and Ambiance
Location Details
NIU Kitchen is located in the heart of downtown Miami at 104 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132-2509. It is conveniently located just 0.4 miles from American Airlines Arena. The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with bus route 7 stopping nearby. There is also ample street parking available in the area.
Ambiance Overview
NIU Kitchen has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a warm and inviting decor that creates a relaxed and comfortable dining experience. The restaurant has an open kitchen, which allows diners to watch as their food is prepared. The space is small, with only a few tables and a bar, but this adds to the intimate and personal feel of the restaurant.
The restaurant is decorated with rustic wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and warm lighting, which creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The ambiance is enhanced by the friendly and attentive staff, who are always willing to help with any questions or concerns.
Overall, NIU Kitchen has a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The intimate setting and friendly staff make it a great place to relax and enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine.
Menu Highlights
NIU Kitchen’s menu is inspired by Catalan cuisine and features a range of tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. Here are some of the menu highlights:
Signature Dishes
- Pa amb Tomaquet: This classic Catalan dish consists of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and tomato and drizzled with olive oil. NIU Kitchen’s version is simple yet flavorful and pairs well with any of the restaurant’s other dishes.
- Jamon Iberico: This Spanish cured ham is a must-try for any meat lover. NIU Kitchen serves it thinly sliced and beautifully presented on a wooden board.
- Pork Cheeks: These slow-cooked pork cheeks are tender and flavorful, served with a side of creamy polenta and topped with crispy shallots.
- Octopus Carpaccio: Thinly sliced octopus is served with a tangy lemon vinaigrette and topped with crunchy fennel and radish.
Beverage Selection
NIU Kitchen has an extensive wine list featuring a variety of Spanish and international wines. They also offer a selection of craft beers and creative cocktails.
- NIU Wine: This is the restaurant’s own label of wine, produced in collaboration with a local winery. The red blend is smooth and easy to drink, while the white is light and refreshing.
- Gin & Tonic: NIU Kitchen’s take on this classic cocktail features a variety of gin and tonic combinations, each with its own unique garnish.
- Sangria: This refreshing Spanish drink is perfect for sipping on a warm Miami evening. NIU Kitchen’s version is made with red wine, brandy, and fresh fruit.
Chef Profile
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqibxTliWV4&embed=true
NIU Kitchen is the brainchild of Chef Deme Lomas, who co-owns the restaurant with wine director Karina Iglesias. Chef Lomas was born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, where he developed a passion for cooking at a young age. He honed his skills at culinary school in Spain and worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants before returning to Miami to open NIU Kitchen.
Chef Lomas’ culinary style is rooted in Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, but he also draws inspiration from his travels and his Venezuelan heritage. He focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and letting their natural flavors shine through. He also has a knack for creating innovative flavor combinations that surprise and delight diners.
One of Chef Lomas’ signature dishes at NIU Kitchen is the octopus carpaccio, which features thinly sliced octopus served with avocado, lime, and smoked paprika. He also puts his own spin on classic dishes like paella and croquetas, using unexpected ingredients and techniques to create something new and exciting.
Chef Lomas’ commitment to quality and creativity has earned NIU Kitchen numerous accolades, including a spot on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list. He continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the kitchen, while staying true to his roots and his passion for cooking.
Customer Reviews
Positive Reviews
NIU Kitchen has received a lot of positive feedback from customers. Many have praised the restaurant for its unique and delicious Catalan-style cuisine. Customers have also complimented the restaurant’s cozy and intimate atmosphere, as well as its excellent service. Some specific positive reviews include:
- “NIU Kitchen is hands down the best restaurant in Miami! The food is absolutely amazing and the service is top-notch. I highly recommend the octopus and the pork cheeks – they are to die for!”
- “I had an incredible meal at NIU Kitchen. The flavors were so unique and delicious. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. I can’t wait to go back!”
- “NIU Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant in Miami. The food is simply outstanding and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I highly recommend the croquetas and the paella.”
Constructive Criticisms
While NIU Kitchen has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some customers have offered constructive criticisms. Some customers have mentioned that the restaurant can be a bit pricey, and that the portions are on the smaller side. Others have mentioned that the restaurant can get quite crowded and noisy during peak hours. Some specific constructive criticisms include:
- “While the food at NIU Kitchen is absolutely delicious, it can be a bit pricey. I would recommend going with a group so you can try more dishes and split the bill.”
- “The portions at NIU Kitchen are on the smaller side, so if you’re really hungry you might need to order a few plates. That being said, the food is so delicious that it’s definitely worth it!”
- “NIU Kitchen can get quite crowded and noisy during peak hours, so if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dinner, it might be best to go during off-peak hours.”
Awards and Recognitions
NIU Kitchen has received numerous accolades since its opening in 2014. The restaurant has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Miami by publications such as Zagat and Eater. Additionally, Chef Deme Lomas was a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award for Best Chef South in 2018 and 2019.
The restaurant has also been awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years, from 2017 to 2020. This prestigious award is given to restaurants that offer high-quality food at a reasonable price.
In addition to these awards, NIU Kitchen has also been featured in various publications, including The New York Times, The Miami Herald, and Food & Wine. The restaurant’s unique take on Catalan cuisine and its cozy, intimate atmosphere have garnered praise from both critics and diners alike.
NIU Kitchen’s success can be attributed to Chef Deme Lomas’ dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and his commitment to creating innovative dishes that showcase the flavors of Catalonia. The restaurant’s friendly and knowledgeable staff also contribute to its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Miami.
Contact Information
NIU Kitchen is located at 104 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132. Customers can contact the restaurant by phone at (786) 717-6711 or via email at [email protected]. NIU Kitchen also has an active presence on Instagram, where customers can follow them at @niukitchen and @niuwine.
Reservation Details
NIU Kitchen is a popular restaurant in Miami, and reservations are strongly recommended. Customers can make reservations through the restaurant’s website at resy.com or by calling the restaurant directly. NIU Kitchen also accepts walk-in customers, but availability cannot be guaranteed.
Operating Hours
NIU Kitchen is closed on Mondays. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM and Friday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. On Sundays, NIU Kitchen is open for brunch from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and for dinner from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Customers should note that operating hours may be subject to change, and it is recommended to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm availability.
NIU Kitchen accepts major credit cards, including American Express, Mastercard, and Visa. The restaurant also has a terrace area for outdoor dining, and customers can enjoy air conditioning inside the restaurant.
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