Wynwood is getting a new eatery in time for Art Basel. The Gang Miami, billed as an Asian-fusion restaurant, is scheduled to open in a few weeks, in time for Art Basel madness.
Husband and wife Bogdan and Jacqueline Niculae are the co-owners of the Gang Miami, located at 3500 N. Miami Ave., next to Gigi.
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The duo owned some restaurants in their native Romania before pursuing their passion of moving to Miami. "We had two restaurants back home, and because we had success with them, we decided we needed to do something in another part of the world. We love Miami and its weather," Bogdan Niculae explains,
So what prompted the couple to open an Asian-fusion restaurant instead of one serving rich stews, stuffed peppers, and tart soups of their native country?
Niculae explains the couple's ties to Asia.
"We traveled throughout the continent, spending time in Thailand and Hong King. The first time we were there was ten years ago, and we love the culture, cuisine, and respect. We also took a lot of design ideas from that part of the world, so we decided to open a restaurant that celebrates that."
The Gang will serve sushi, as well as a mix of Japanese, Thai, and Indian cuisines, along with an array of beverages. But Niculae wants the restaurant to be about more than just food and drink. "The Gang is a concept of life. It's about interior design, art, healthy living, and sports."
The name, by the way, is derived from the couple's circle of artistic friends who call themselves "the gang." The name also fits into their new Miami neighborhood, also filled with artists and bohemians.
In addition to the restaurant, the Niculaes are also opening a restaurant consulting firm, playing on their combined interior design and fashion talents.
The Gang is scheduled to soft-open November 24 and will be open for dinner nightly. During the weekends, a DJ will play music from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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