Come Tuesday, the Brickell space where Lippi formerly operated under star chef Philippe Ruiz, will re-open its doors. The owners are the same, but the new restaurant will be called Tamarina. Owners Tunu and Yona Puri have teamed up with restaurateur Arjun Waney for a coastal Italian restaurant concept that will seat up to 200 persons.
Open for lunch and dinner, Tamarina will include an al fresco Champagne bar and terrace for sipping on bubbly while enjoying a nice crudo or something similar.
See also: Tamarina to Replace Lippi in Brickell
Tunu and Yona Puri closed Lippi because Miami "wasn't ready for this type of concept," so it shall be interesting to see what Tamarina has in store, especially with a partner like Waney, whose impressive resume includes Zuma, Coya, La Petite Maison, and the Arts Club in London. If there's one thing that's for certain, it is that Waney knows how to draw in diners who are willing to spend big bucks.
The interiors have been completely redone to evoke a less palatial atmospehere. It is more effortlessly chic Miami night out. Think tufted couches and copper tables with drop down sheer curtains, modern orbital lighting, and a center bar outfitted in glassware to store cognac and whiskey.
No word on the full menu just yet, but Tamarina will source fresh catch from local fisherman as well as produce from nearby farms. Expect seared sea scallops with caponata, big eye tuna topped by shaved fennel and orange, as well as fine selection of raw offerings from the crudo bar. Tamarina intends on having an elaborate oyster program, highlighting the best varieties from the season daily. Antipasto, pasta, and risotto will also be available, as well as meats like Cornish hen, veal Milanese, lamb chops, New York strip, filet, and rib eye. Sides will be additional. Prices will range from $9-$19 for appetizers, $7-$44 for mains, and up to $99 for an ounce of caviar.
I guess we'll just have to wait till Tuesday, when Tamarina opens for lunch to see whether Miami is ready for this concept. The restaurant will close for a private event Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and continue dinner service after 8 p.m.
Tamarina will be open for lunch Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. while the lounge will stay open through 6 p.m. when dinner will start till 11:30 p.m. (Monday through Saturday). Tamarina will be closed on Sundays.
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