Elcielo Miami
Miami, USA
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Colombian-born Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos' culinary artistry has garnered international fame, and his burgeoning empire has this Miami location has been going strong since 2015. An open kitchen and backlit bar welcome patrons to the space, outfitted with stone floors and well-sized wood tables. Warm lighting and greenery complement the sleek appeal.Come to experience elevated Colombian food and dramatic presentations, from the tableside chocotherapy to the Tree of Life bread service. Expect a variety of small bites leading up to the main courses, including an activated charcoal buñuelo with a porcini and black truffle filling, and a fritter made with fresh cheese, corn, and tapioca pearls. Cleanse the palate with a green mango popsicle with a spicy powder coating and a shot of aguardiente.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Multi-sensory 21-course tasting menu called "The Experience": Elcielo Miami offers a unique culinary journey that stimulates all five senses through a carefully crafted 21-course menu, priced around $197-$289 per person. This menu tells a story with each bite or sip, combining sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste to immerse diners in Colombian culture and flavors.
Design and ambiance reflecting Colombian soul and Miami's tropical elements: The intimate 45-seat dining room is designed by Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos and his family, featuring handmade furniture from imported Colombian wood and leather, and decor inspired by Barrientos’ travels. The location overlooks the Miami River at the confluence of downtown Miami and Brickell, creating a distinctive atmosphere that blends Colombian heritage with Miami’s coastal vibe.
Open kitchen and innovative cocktail bar: Upon entering, diners are greeted by a stunning open kitchen where an international team prepares the dishes, allowing guests to witness the culinary artistry firsthand. The illuminated bar offers signature and innovative Colombian cocktails that complement the tasting menu, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at Elcielo Miami, a Michelin-starred restaurant, include:
Yucca (Yuca): Used notably in the "Tree of Life" dish, yucca bread is combined with mozzarella and basil, served with toasted butter, cilantro, oregano cream, and artichoke pepper. This ingredient highlights Colombian roots and offers a unique texture and flavor profile.
Chocolate: Central to the famous "Chocotherapy" experience, where diners wash their hands in liquid chocolate, making chocolate both a sensory and culinary element that transcends traditional dining.
Kampachi (White Kampachi fish): Featured in a ceviche dish paired with golden berries, toasted quinoa, kalamansi mayo, finger lime pearls, key lime foam, and achiote drops. This ingredient showcases fresh, high-quality seafood with vibrant Latin American flavors.
Truffle: Incorporated in dishes like the activated charcoal buñuelo filled with porcini and black truffle, adding luxury and earthiness to the tasting menu.
Dry Shrimp Rice (Guajira’s Dry Shrimp Rice): A regional ingredient that brings authentic Colombian coastal flavors to the menu, emphasizing the chef’s heritage and use of local ingredients.
These ingredients are used not only for their flavors but also to create a multi-sensory, narrative-driven dining experience that reflects Colombian culinary traditions with avant-garde techniques.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- Sunday & Monday: $255 per person
- Wednesday: $265 per person
- Thursday: $245 per person
- Friday & Saturday: $289 per person
Wine Pairing
- 7 Glasses: +$198
- Champagne Pairing (3 Glasses): +$250
- Caviar Service (1oz): +$150