Coconut Grove’s booming dining scene keeps on growing with the addition of Ariete, the new-American neighborhood eatery from high school friends former Cypress Room sous chef Michael Beltran and Sidebar partner Jason Odio.
Taking over the former La Bottega space next to Taurus in the Grove, the 80-seat multi-level space gives an upscale yet contemporary service experience boasting a homemade, seasonal menu.
Beltran told us the menu rotates frequently but we got a taste of the current menu and there were plenty of delicious hits. Starting off with small bites like house-made Parker House Rolls, Grilled Oysters doused in bone marrow butter; Venison Tartare topped with Lake Meadows eggs; and our favorite starter – Foie Gras made with sour orange vinegar, temptation caramel, ember roasted plantains and cacao nibs that adds a nice sweetness to the fatty liver.
The entree portion of the menu features a large variety of perfectly prepared proteins like a Local Fish with fennel, white beans, and herb nage; a half Wood Grilled Chicken with local vegetables and salsa verde; Smoked Pork chop with delicata squash and farro; and Grilled Short Rib with shaved vegetable caesar, red pepper beef jus. And don’t miss the side dishes, especially the creamy Potatoes Aligot that puts most mashed potatoes to shame.
Desserts aren’t an afterthought either, with pastry chef and Hedy Goldsmith protégé Dallas Wynne creating classic desserts with a unique twist like Sour Orange Doughnuts with wood grilled pineapple marmalade; Chocolate Cremeux with candied popcorn, pretzel crumble, cocoa nibs and malted milk ice cream; Crème Fraiche Cheesecake with seasonal fruit and graham crumble; and a rotating seasonal pie – ours was a Blood Orange Key Lime pie variation, which was the hit of the table.
Make sure to check out this great new local spot in the Grove, and until you do, take a look at the delicious pictures below.
