This Colombian restaurant in Miami earned a Michelin star. Now it’s open in Miami Beach
Elcielo, the Colombian restaurant in Miami that was awarded a Michelin star in 2022, has branched out — into the space that was once home to The Bazaar by José Andrés at the SLS South Beach hotel.
From Colombian chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, Elcielo is now open in the former space of The Bazaar, which announced its closing last fall.
In addition to its Brickell location, the brand also has restaurants in Medellin and Bogota as well as a Michelin-star winning location in Washington, D.C., which was the first Michelin star ever awarded to a Colombian restaurant.
For now, the space retains its Bazaar-era glamour, including its centerpiece chandelier. A redesign is scheduled for next summer.
The new South Beach menu is unique in one significant way: It represents the first time Elcielo is offering a la carte ordering. The existing restaurants offer a tasting menu chosen by the chef.
Known internationally as “Chef Juanma,” Barrientos said that the menu will include Elcielo favorites like the corn arepa and caviar and ribs in guava and tamarind. The yucca gnocchi with truffle and sweet plantain will be featured, too.
Other signature dishes will be on the menu, too, such as truffle buñuelos with torched foie gras; crispy crab empanadas with Caribbean spices; roasted quail; and lulo ceviche (lulo is an exotic fruit with a citrusy flavor).
The famous “Tree of Life” — made with cassava, cheese and basil and presented with eclectic showmanship — will also make an appearance on the menu.
“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,” said Chef Juanma in a statement.
Simon Sorpresi, area vice president for SLS South Beach, said he hopes the restaurant creates “unforgettable moments” for its guests.
“Culinary excellence and discovery are at the heart of the SLS South Beach experience,” he said. “We’re delighted to welcome Elcielo as our partner in delivering an extraordinary dining experience.”
Elcielo
Where: SLS Hotel South Beach, 1701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach
Reservations: OpenTable