What a year, huh?
To say that 2020 has been eventful would be an understatement. The good news, though, is that it’s almost over. As we approach the holidays, it’s easy to focus on all the negative things that have happened this year. But while we’ve been cooped up at home, we’ve had the time to reflect on 2020 and look at some of the (few) positives to come out of this tumultuous time – especially in the local food scene.
Let’s face the facts first: It’s no secret that the restaurant industry has been battered by the pandemic. This is especially true in Miami, which has been all over the place with its COVID-19 restrictions. From one day to the next, restaurateurs have had to deal with inconsistent regulations that are just as confusing for the general public.
We’re thankful that despite all this, many restaurants have managed to persevere. This crazy year forced them to get creative to stay afloat, and the creativity they’ve displayed is inspiring. Case in point: the thriving restaurant pop-up trend, which we touched upon in last month’s column. Such collaborative efforts during the pandemic have brought the restaurant community even closer together.
Speaking of the which, we’re grateful that (most) restaurants in South Florida are continuing to take germs seriously. Although the state has eased its restrictions on dining out, we aren’t out of the woods yet, and many restaurant owners seem to understand that. On a personal note, we’re part of a high-risk population, which makes going out to eat somewhat dangerous right now. Seeing masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing markers still abundant inside dining rooms is encouraging.
A consequence of everything going on is that more hungry customers are turning to delivery; it’s a way to stay socially distant while supporting their favorite spots. We’re thankful that people are doing that, but we’re especially thankful that this whole situation has shone the spotlight on a growing problem: exorbitant third-party delivery fees. It’s crazy to think that these companies can take upwards of a 30% cut of an order. Hopefully, this newfound attention brings about some big changes to help restaurants out.
In the meantime, you can do your part to make sure that more money goes to the restaurant when you place an order. It’s possible that the restaurant runs its own deliveries; if so, use that service instead of an app. Another option: Just do takeout. While not as convenient as delivery, picking up your order saves the restaurant money – plus you can make sure your order is correct right there on the spot.
Photo courtesy of Mina Group
Ornos Estiatorio is one of the newest restaurants to join the local food scene amidst the pandemic.
OPENINGS
Finally, we’re thankful that the pandemic hasn’t stopped new restaurants from opening their doors. Several new eateries made their debut recently, including one by award-winning chef Michael Mina. Ornos Estiatorio (19565 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 946, 786.697.1681), located at Aventura Mall, is the chef’s take on traditional Greek fare. The menu at this 160-seat restaurant is heavy on the seafood, which is why guests will have help from a “fish sommelier” during their experience. Expect classics like grilled octopus, lemon chicken, sea bass and lamb shoulder on the menu. These offerings are a far cry from International Smoke, the BBQ concept that Ornos Estiatorio is replacing.
Another notable addition is United States Burger Service (8300 NE 2nd Ave.). The former weekend pop-up at Wynwood’s Boxelder is now permanent inside Little River food hall The Citadel. USBS has made a name for itself with its whimsical pun-filled marketing, which plays off – you guessed it – the United States Postal Service. Burger options include Ground (single patty), 2-Day (double patty) and Snail Mail (veggie). Make sure to buy some Insurance (house-cut fries) to complete your order.
Right down the street, Hachidori Ramen Bar (8222 NE 2nd Ave., 786.409.5963) has also set up shop. As the name suggests, Hachidori offers a wide range of ramen selections, like the O.G. with cured pork belly and a 20-hour tonkotsu and miso broth. Don’t let that name fool you, though: There’s much more to the place than just noodles. Other highlights include umami sticky buns, Korean spicy wings, hand rolls and mochi ice cream.
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.