Argentinian based restaurant group, Grupo Alfoz is expanding their reign in Miami. The iconic gastronomic focused company has successfully opened more than 10 restaurants in Argentina and most recently Tulum. The four founders have been referred to as “revolutionizing the Mendoza dining scene” with places like Ruda, Barijho, Quimera Bistró and El Mercadito. Miami is their next stop where they’ve partnered with local and foreign investors to debut all-day eatery, Chimba. In Latin America, Chimba is a slang term used to describe something either really good or bad. The new concept celebrates Latin American cultures and embraces their bold flavors. The group wanted to create an escape creating an inviting and casual vibe with dishes designed for any time of the day. Chimba promises to take guests through a culinary journey with strong Latin influences ranging from Argentina, Mexico and Peru.
Chimba officially opening in September, in Miami’s rapidly growing neighborhood, Midtown. Grupo Alfoz has had their eye on Miami for a while and fell in love with the centrally located district. Co-Founder and leader of the project, Franco Yannelli said, “We’ve always wanted to open Miami because of the strong sense of Latin American culture...we couldn't think of a better place to bring together what both of our countries represent.” He added, “Miami’s culinary scene is only growing and we’re thrilled to be in the middle of it.”
Chimba is helmed by Executive Chef Kevin Acosta. The Nicaraguan native studied at Le Cordon Bleu and Mariano Moreno Culinary Institute. Previously, he was the Chef at Pura Vida and worked in kitchens at award winning hotels such as The Setai. At his newest stint, Chef Kevin will put a creative spin on classic Latin American fare while only using the fresh ingredients. The partners along with Chef Kevin wanted to offer something for everyone and every lifestyle. The all-day menu features a wide range of items including brunch friendly dishes, homemade empanadas, fresh acai bowls and small to large plates.
Menu highlights include Provoleta made with grilled provolone, cherry tomatoes, grilled peppers and fruit vinegar, Beet Arepa filled with pork carnitas and smoked gouda, an in-house Cured Fish served atop sourdough toast with chive cream cheese, crispy sunchoke, tangerine and sprouts, Choripan Sandwich filled with chorizo, criolla, lettuce and aioli, Picanha al Fierro topped with chimichurri sauce and Shrimp Chaufa mixed with shrimp, onion, bell peppers, green onion, soy, sesame oil and sprouts. Desserts are also made in-house featuring a Miami ode, Key Lime Tres Leches layered with key lime custard, Italian meringue and vanilla streusel. In theme of their local and sustainable mission, Chimba is partnering with local purveyor Sullivan Street Bakery using their award-wining breads for toasts and sandwiches.
Enhancing the dining experience, Chimba offers a variety of drinks including wine, beer, specialty cocktails, vermouth and a Gin and Tonic menu. Signature libations include a Terré Collins shaken with Principe de los Apostoles gin, yerba mate syrup, sauvignon blanc, fresh grapefruit and lemon juice, basil and fever tree tonic, Huancaina Sour fused with Caravedo pisco, passiontfruit juice, pineapple syrup, lime juice and egg white and a brunch friendly Chimba Bloody Mary mixed with Stoli Vodka, fresh pressed tomato and bell pepper juice, worcestershire sauce, fresh lime and rocoto peppers. As a tribute to Grupo Alfoz’s homeland, a strong portion of their wine menu also hails from Argentina.
Chimba occupies 4,500 square feet with 100 seats inside and 60 seats on their outdoor patio. The interior boasts open-faced brick walls with a contemporary design and inviting atmosphere. Inside, guests can admire vibrant pops of abstract art by Argentinian and Mexican artists, Amadeo Seguy and Paulina Guajardo. The modern-day themed furnishings were also imported from Nicaragua, Mexico, Brazil. For a photo-worthy moment, a neon light also hangs by the bar that reads, “We are all Chimbas.”
Chimba is located at 2830 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137. Hours of operation are: Monday - Friday from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. / Saturday & Sundays from 11 a.m. – 11p.m.