Shireen's Favorite Things

Coya Miami 999 Brickell Avenue, Miami, Florida 33131

When I arrived at Coya in downtown Miami last week, it was a complete madhouse (in a good way). The place was packed and totally buzzing with Friday night energy. Even though I had heard it was one of the hottest tickets in town for dinner, man, I had no idea! The bold and the beautiful of Miami had officially found their new hot spot.

The restaurant itself, which serves Peruvian food with a contemporary twist, is just as sexy as the crowd that frequents it. The main dining room, which is flanked with a Ceviche Counter, is decorated in velvety yellows, brushed ceramic tiles, black and cream marbling and cast iron detailing.

I decided to have dinner in Coya’s famous Pisco Bar. It’s decorated in bold colors, rich textures and moody lighting. My first drink of the night was a clean, classic and extra frothy “Pisco Sour” — they obviously know how to whip up their signature Peruvian cocktail. Next up…

The “Nikkei Smash” (a whiskey-based drink served in a copper mug). It was strong enough for a man, but dressed to seduce a woman. The “Miami Elixir” (made with vodka, falernum, pomegranate and fresh lemon juice) was pretty and packed a major punch. 😋

For starters, I tried two Peruvian Sashimi plates: “Pez Limon” (with yellowtail, green chili and radish) and “Atun Nikkei” (yellowfin tuna, ginger and chili salsa). Both were fresh with a spicy kick. I also had a small dish (an appetizer portion) of “Tacos de Salmon” with tomato and avocado. They were bite-sized perfection.

I was totally pumped to try one of their Iron Pot dishes. I went with the “Cazuelas Langosta” (cazuelas means “cooking pot” in English) filled with lobster, rice, watercress and salsa. Last but definitely not least, I feasted on the mind-blowing “Pescado Entero” (their whole crispy catch of the day) with a bowl of veggies. I loved its dramatic presentation filled with fried fishy goodness. It was EVERYTHING.

At the end of the night, I was escorted to Coya’s private lounge (for members only). The intimate gathering was geared toward live music, mingling guests and of course, drinks and dinner. I mean…

Who needs dessert when you have delicious food, a beautiful crowd and mystery behind an exclusive door? That’s why Coya Miami is definitely one of my new favorite things. Oh, and that fish, though!

Coya is located in downtown Miami on Brickell Avenue. Parking is always tough in this area but luckily, the restaurant offers valet on the North side of the building.

Dinner is Sunday-Thursday 6pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 6pm-12pm.
(for brunch, lunch and bar hours: www.coyarestaurant.com/miami)