Here’s a sneak peek of new restaurants opening in the Miami Beach Firestone building
Your weekend plans are looking up.
David Grutman and Groot Hospitality’s three new “concepts” — Winker’s Diner, Toothfairy Bakery and Sushi Fly Chicken — are ready to go.
On Friday, three of the nightlife entrepreneur’s spaces, located at the iconic Firestone Complex at 15th and Alton Road in Miami Beach, will all open.
Grutman’s latest babies offer up a variety of treats for various types. Yes, all are highly Instagrammable.
Toothfairy
This aptly named dessert destination is part soft serve ice cream parlor part bakery/confectionery. Lining the cases in this cheerful, pink and blue jewel box are gorgeously colorful cakes, pastries and cookies by Stubborn Seed’s Dallas Wynne.
Don’t sleep on the Snickerdoodles, made in house and her personal fave. There’s also a section dedicated to nostalgic sweets with a twist like Oatmeal Cream Pies, Cake Pop Candy Bars and Matcha Green Tea Twinkies.
“I’ve definitely gone for a whimsical, bright, fun, vibe,” says Wynne. “We’re in the day and age in which everything needs to be aesthetically pleasing, but I love that challenge. I love being able to make something that looks just as good as it tastes. That, no pun intended, is the ultimate sweet spot.”
Winker’s Diner
Named after Grutman’s beloved one eyed cat, this 240 seat modern meets retro diner will likely be the go-to spot for early birds or late-nighters (it’s open until 4 a.m. on weekends) hunting for perfect pastrami sandwich, which is named after the famed owner himself.
Expect all-day breakfast plates; old school milkshakes and floats; and stacked-to-the-rafters deli sandwiches on rye. More unusual items include the Cinnamon Roll French Toast, Lobster Cobb Salad and and Jah Mama’s Crispy Chicken.
“Winker’s is my version of a classic neighborhood diner — a place where you know you’ll always find a familial atmosphere and easygoing comfort food,” Grutman says.
Sushi Fly Chicken (SFC)
Known as SFC for those in the know (that’s you now), this Asian inspired, low lit lounge-restaurant has a clubby, insider-y feel. A ticker tape with letters from the Chinese alphabet runs over the bar while old Kung Fu movies play on a loop. The design is reminiscent of the exclusive, unlisted watering holes tucked in and around Tokyo’s hip Roppongi and Ginza neighborhoods.
“When it comes to restaurants, I’ve always loved the idea of ‘a secret behind the counter.’ With SFC, we’re making it happen,” says Grutman. “You’re transported to this rock-’n-roll world of Tokyo’s nightlife, complete with great food, cocktails, and a one-of-a-kind vibe. You won’t find anything else like it in Miami.”
Among the recommended menu items (beside sushi): lobster prawn toast, handmade Peking Duck bao dumplings, Korean style fried chicken (yes, Groot’s personal choice) or a four-course chef’s omakase.
Firestone Garage’s three concepts join Groot Hospitality’s ever-growing portfolio: nightclubs LIV and Story; restaurants Komodo, OTL, Planta, Swan, and Papi Steak; and the Goodtime Hotel, which houses the restaurant Strawberry Moon.
Sushi Fly Chicken, Toothfairy, and Winker’s Diner at Firestone Garage
1575 Alton Rd., Miami Beach
sushiflychicken.com; winkersdiner.com; toothfairybakery.com.
This story was originally published August 31, 2021 at 2:19 PM.
