This Peruvian spot closed after 18 years in Coral Gables. Now it’s making a comeback

In 2018, Francesco closed its doors in Coral Gables after 18 years of serving Peruvian cuisine.

Now, the popular restaurant is back, with a new location on Miracle Mile.

The restaurant, next to the Miracle Theater, is being operated by one of its original owners, Franco Danavaro, in partnership with Fusian Agency and V&V Grupo Immobiliario.

Danavaro said he’s looking forward to introducing the next generation to “unique” Peruvian flavors with an Italian influence.

“We decided to reopen because many clients reached out and made us feel that we had a real opportunity,” he said, adding that he is hoping to “revive a legacy of exceptional dining while incorporating fresh ideas to keep the experience relevant.”

The new 3,000-square-foot restaurant, which was founded in Peru in 1984 by the Danavaro family, offers indoor and outdoor dining, serving lunch and dinner and offering live music on Wednesdays.

There are plenty of memories to be found for long-time fans of Francesco. Executive chef Sergio Riglos leads the local culinary program, assisted by Pedro Monteza and Jorge Quispe, two other Peruvian chefs who led the kitchen at the original restaurant.

Some of the favorite dishes have returned to the menu, too, like squid ink risotto with grilled calamari on aji amarillo sauce; tiradito Francesco; and a catch of the day, which is a dish of sweet and sour white fish rolls sauteed with onions and mushrooms and flambeed in cognac with potato and asparagus.

Other appetizers include grilled scallops with parsnip puree and crispy pancetta; Peruvian red pepper stuffed with shrimp and finished au gratin; and, of course, plenty of different ceviche options. Main courses include cannelloni filled with classic Peruvian chicken stew, seared sea scallops over walnut sauce spaghetti or pork chops served with Peruvian potato stew.

Danavaro calls the menu a “modern twist on classic flavors.”

“The focus has expanded to include more innovative creations,” he said, adding that seafood offerings have been elevated with fresh ingredients and a “touch of Italian gastronomy.”

Desserts include dulce de leche topped with Italian merengue and Oreo Freddo cheesecake.

Francesco

Where: 278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; noon-11 p.m. Friday; 3-11 p.m. Saturday; and 1-10 p.m. Sunday

More information and reservations: francesco-restaurant.com or 305-797-4039

This story was originally published February 25, 2025 at 4:30 AM.