Looking Back at 2020’s Biggest Openings (and Closings)

After what has seemed like forever, 2020 is finally drawing to a close. Many of us couldn’t be happier to say goodbye: This year was … not good. That statement is especially true for restaurant owners, whose industry has faced some – yes, we’re saying it again – unprecedented times.

Obviously, one of the biggest headlines of 2020 has been the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to dealing with a virus, local businesses are dealing with inconsistent and confusing regulations from government officials. To put it frankly, this whole thing is a hot mess. But 2020 has had some bright spots for South Florida’s food scene, and those bright spots come in the form of new concepts.

One of those concepts is El Bagel (6910 Biscayne Blvd.), the former food truck that now has a brick-and-mortar shop in MiMo. Hungry customers would line up for hours to get one of El Bagel’s delicious sandwiches outside of Wynwood’s Boxelder. Now at the restaurant, those same customers can still get a B.E.C. (bacon, egg and cheese) or Avo Spesh (smashed avocado) bagel sandwich and enjoy expanded offerings. You will have to eat elsewhere, though; for the foreseeable future, El Bagel is only taking online orders for pickup. The good news is you no longer have to wait in line – just go at your designated pickup time.

Another long-anticipated addition to the food scene is Marabu (701 S. Miami Ave., 4th Floor, 786.598.8012) at Brickell City Centre. Emphasizing coal-fired Cuban cuisine, this concept is led by chef Alberto Cabrera, who previously helmed Bread + Butter in Coral Gables. Unlike that casual Cuban spot, Marabu is a bit swankier, but no less approachable. Guests can expect all the classics including “vaca frita” (crispy smoked flank steak), “masitas de puerco” (crispy cured pork), Cuban sandwiches and – of course – Cuban coffee. These bites are complemented by a rum-forward selection of cocktails like mojitos and piña coladas.

A little further north, Hiyakawa (2700 N. Miami Ave., 305.890.7228) finally opened its doors after months of delays (thanks coronavirus). The namesake Japanese restaurant from chef Shuji Hiyakawa was set to debut back in March. The wait seems to be worth it, though; crowds have been pouring into the gorgeous Wynwood space for a taste of the restaurant’s generous omakase with sushi and other delights. Fair warning: It isn’t cheap – it’s a triple-digit experience – but if you’ve experienced Shuji’s other concept (Wabi Sabi), you know you’re in for a treat.

As new restaurants continue to open and existing concepts continue to rebound, we’re excited for what 2021 has in store. Unfortunately, some eateries won’t be joining us in the new year: Just as 2020 has had its fair share of openings, it’s also had its fair share of closings.

Among the biggest names to shut down this year was International Smoke. The barbecue spot at Aventura Mall was a partnership between acclaimed chef Michael Mina and celebrity Ayesha Curry. Its menu boasted hearty offerings like smoked Korean short rib, St. Louis pork ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. Sadly, the great food and star power couldn’t keep the restaurant afloat once the pandemic hit South Florida.

Cake Thai also called it quits earlier this year. The neighborhood spot off NE 79th Street and Biscayne Boulevard was known for its affordable Thai cuisine and friendly chef, Phuket “Cake” Thongsodchaveondee. Guests could chow down on curried duck, chili crab, lemongrass tiger prawns and other authentic cuisine without breaking the bank. Cake’s future plans are up in the air, but we wouldn’t be surprised if he pops up again soon.

Obra Kitchen Table was another big closure that hit close to home. The Brickell establishment was a hot spot for Venezuelan cuisine and other Latin fare from celebrated chef Carlos García. The creative tasting menus were a huge draw, and we’re still in awe that García could make something as simple as arepas taste so good.

But enough looking back – let’s keep looking forward. Here’s to better days. We wish you all the best this holiday season. Stay safe, and see you next year! 

Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson are co-founders of Miami Food Pug, an award-winning South Florida food blog that fuses the couple’s love of dogs and food.