Restaurant Profile: Leku in Miami – A Comprehensive Overview

Leku, located in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood, is a Spanish and Basque restaurant that brings the flavors and pleasures of the Côte Basque region to the heart of Miami. The restaurant is situated inside the contemporary digs of the Rubell Museum, which is housed in six former industrial buildings transformed by Selldorf Architects. The restaurant opened in December 2019 and has already made a name for itself in the Miami dining scene.

The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with high ceilings and an open kitchen that allows diners to watch the chefs at work. Leku’s menu is inspired by the coastal cuisine of the Basque region, and features dishes like gambas al ajillo, veal cheeks, and wild mushroom rice. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails and an extensive wine list, which includes many Spanish and Basque wines. Leku is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family, or to celebrate a special occasion.

Overview of Leku

Leku is a Spanish restaurant located in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami, Florida. The restaurant is situated inside the Rubell Museum, which was opened in December 2019 and designed by Selldorf Architects. Leku brings the flavors of Spain’s enchanting Côte Basque region to Miami, offering a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike.

The restaurant’s interior is contemporary and stylish, with open garage doors that blend in with Leku’s covered patio lined with native plants. The dining room is adorned with modern art pieces, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and welcoming.

Leku’s menu features traditional Basque dishes with a modern twist, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the restaurant’s signature dishes include the Basque Cheese Tart, Beef Tartare, and Paella, which are all highly recommended by diners. Leku also offers an extensive wine list, featuring a variety of Spanish and international wines to complement the flavors of the dishes.

The restaurant has received positive reviews for its excellent food, attentive service, and beautiful ambiance. Leku is a great place to visit for a special occasion or a romantic dinner, as well as for those who want to experience the flavors of Spain in Miami.

Location in Miami

Leku is a trendy Basque restaurant located in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood. The restaurant is situated inside the contemporary digs of the Rubell Museum, which opened in December 2019. The museum is housed in six former industrial buildings connected and transformed by Selldorf Architects.

Although Leku is located on a rather industrial stretch of Allapattah, it is not difficult to find. The restaurant’s address is 1100 NW. 23rd St., Miami, 33127, USA. It is situated about 2 miles from the American Airlines Arena.

Leku’s location in the Rubell Museum offers visitors a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s decor is modern and sleek, with a minimalist design that complements the museum’s aesthetic. The dining room is spacious and filled with natural light, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

The restaurant’s location in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood also offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s vibrant culture. Allapattah is known for its diverse community and is home to many art galleries, studios, and cultural centers. Visitors can take a stroll through the neighborhood and discover the area’s unique character.

Overall, Leku’s location in Miami is ideal for those looking for a trendy dining experience in a unique setting. The restaurant’s location in the Rubell Museum and Allapattah neighborhood offers visitors the opportunity to explore Miami’s vibrant culture while enjoying delicious Basque cuisine.

Ambiance and Decor

Leku offers a contemporary and elegant ambiance that is perfect for a fine dining experience. The restaurant is located inside the Rubell Museum, which is a prominent contemporary art museum in Miami. The decor of the restaurant is modern and sleek, with clean lines and minimalist design. The space is well-lit with natural light, and the large windows offer a view of the museum’s courtyard.

The color scheme of the restaurant is neutral, with shades of white, gray, and black dominating the space. The furniture is comfortable and stylish, with plush chairs and banquettes that are perfect for a long and leisurely meal. The tables are set with crisp white linens and elegant tableware, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant.

The overall ambiance of Leku is relaxed and welcoming, with a focus on providing guests with a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant is perfect for a romantic date night or a special occasion, but it is also suitable for a casual dinner with friends or family. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they are always happy to answer any questions or provide recommendations.

Cuisine Specialties

Leku restaurant specializes in Spanish and Basque cuisine, bringing the flavors of the enchanting Côte Basque region to Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood. The menu is designed by Executive Chef Carlos Garcia, who has been cooking Basque cuisine for years and has a deep understanding of its unique flavors and techniques.

One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is the Txuleton, a 32-ounce bone-in ribeye steak that is dry-aged for 45 days and served with roasted potatoes and piquillo peppers. This dish is a favorite among meat lovers and showcases the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Another popular dish is the Croquetas de Jamón, which are crispy ham croquettes made with serrano ham and béchamel sauce. These small bites are packed with flavor and are a great way to start a meal.

Leku also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including the Pulpo a la Gallega, which is octopus served with potatoes, paprika, and olive oil. This dish is a classic in Spanish cuisine and is executed perfectly at Leku.

In addition to the food, Leku has an extensive wine list that features a variety of Spanish and Basque wines. The restaurant also offers a cocktail list with a range of classic and innovative drinks.

Overall, Leku’s cuisine specialties showcase the flavors and techniques of Spanish and Basque cuisine in a modern and sophisticated way. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods, Leku is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking to experience the best of Spanish and Basque cuisine in Miami.

Chef Profile

Leku’s Executive Chef, Mikel Goikolea, hails from the Basque Country in Spain and brings a wealth of culinary experience to the table. He has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in Spain, France, and the United States before joining Leku in Miami.

Chef Goikolea’s culinary philosophy is centered around using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create traditional Basque dishes with a modern twist. He is passionate about showcasing the unique flavors and techniques of Basque cuisine, and his menu at Leku is a reflection of that.

One of Chef Goikolea’s signature dishes is the Txangurro, a stuffed crab that is a staple in Basque cuisine. He also incorporates other traditional Basque ingredients such as Idiazabal cheese, Piquillo peppers, and Iberico ham into his dishes.

In addition to his work at Leku, Chef Goikolea is also a member of the Basque Culinary Center, an organization that promotes Basque cuisine and supports culinary innovation. He is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich culinary traditions of his homeland with diners in Miami.

Customer Experience

Leku offers a unique culinary experience that transports customers to the enchanting Côte Basque region of Spain. The restaurant’s location inside the Rubell Museum in Miami’s Allapattah neighborhood adds to the overall experience, as customers can enjoy their meals surrounded by contemporary art.

The dining room has a modern and elegant design, with open garage doors that allow natural light to flow in and blend with the covered patio lined with native plants. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

The staff at Leku is knowledgeable and attentive, providing customers with excellent service. From the moment customers arrive, they are greeted with a warm welcome and are promptly seated. The waitstaff is always available to answer any questions about the menu and provide recommendations.

The menu at Leku features traditional Basque dishes with a Miami twist, using locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Customers can choose from a variety of small plates, entrees, and desserts, all expertly prepared by the restaurant’s talented chefs.

Overall, Leku provides customers with a memorable dining experience that combines excellent food, attentive service, and a beautiful ambiance.

Awards and Recognitions

Leku has received several awards and recognitions for its exceptional cuisine and service. In 2022, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star by the MICHELIN Guide USA, recognizing its outstanding culinary achievements. The restaurant has also been recognized by Wine Spectator’s 2022 Award of Excellence for its impressive wine list.

Leku has been praised by food critics and culinary experts for its unique take on Spanish and Basque cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of dishes inspired by the coastal region of Spain’s Basque Country, including pintxos, tapas, and paella.

The restaurant’s interior is also a work of art, featuring stunning design elements that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is located in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami, in the new Rubell Museum, which opened in December 2019.

Leku’s commitment to excellence and innovation has made it one of the most popular restaurants in Miami. The restaurant’s talented chefs and dedicated staff work tirelessly to create an unforgettable dining experience for every guest. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively night out with friends, Leku is the perfect destination for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Community Involvement

Leku is a restaurant that takes pride in being involved in the local community. The restaurant has participated in various events and initiatives that aim to give back to the community and support local businesses.

One of the ways that Leku has shown its support for the community is through its partnership with local farms. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms and markets, which not only supports local businesses but also ensures that the food served is fresh and of high quality.

Leku has also participated in events such as the Miami Spice Festival, which showcases the best of Miami’s culinary scene. The restaurant has been recognized for its exceptional Basque cuisine and has received positive reviews from both critics and locals alike.

In addition to its participation in local events, Leku has also supported various charitable organizations. The restaurant has donated to organizations such as the Miami Rescue Mission and the Humane Society of Greater Miami, which work to improve the lives of those in need.

Overall, Leku’s involvement in the local community demonstrates its commitment to supporting local businesses and giving back to those in need. By sourcing its ingredients from local farms, participating in local events, and supporting charitable organizations, Leku has become a valued member of the Miami community.

Future Plans

Leku has already established itself as a popular dining destination in Miami, but the restaurant has no plans of slowing down. In fact, the team behind Leku has several exciting plans for the future.

One of the most significant developments is the expansion of Leku’s menu. While the restaurant already offers a range of delicious Basque-inspired dishes, the team is constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. Diners can look forward to new additions to the menu in the coming months, including seasonal specials and innovative takes on classic dishes.

In addition to expanding the menu, Leku is also planning to host a range of exciting events in the future. From wine tastings to live music performances, the restaurant aims to create a lively and engaging atmosphere that will keep diners coming back for more.

Finally, Leku is also exploring the possibility of opening additional locations in other cities. While nothing has been confirmed yet, the team is looking at potential sites and considering how they can bring Leku’s unique blend of Basque cuisine and contemporary design to new audiences.

Overall, Leku is a restaurant with big plans for the future. Whether you’re a regular diner or a first-time visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to look forward to at this Miami hotspot.

Conclusion

Leku in Miami is a Spanish-Basque restaurant located in the Allapattah neighborhood. It is situated within the Rubell Museum and offers a unique dining experience with its blend of traditional Basque cuisine and Miami-inspired elements.

The restaurant has received positive reviews, with customers praising the low-key vibe and professional service. The dining room features open garage doors that seamlessly blend with the covered patio, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.

Leku’s menu offers a variety of dishes, including seafood, meats, and vegetarian options. The restaurant’s signature dishes include the Txuletón, a bone-in ribeye steak, and the Pulpo a la Plancha, grilled octopus served with potato purée and paprika.

In addition to its food, Leku also features an extensive wine list, with a focus on Spanish and Basque wines. The restaurant also offers a range of cocktails and craft beers.

Overall, Leku is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Miami. Its blend of traditional Basque cuisine and Miami-inspired elements, combined with its inviting atmosphere and professional service, make it a standout among Miami’s dining scene.