"It is with sincere gratitude and a heavy heart that we share the news that, after six incredible years, Chica Miami has officially closed its doors," the restaurant's team wrote in their farewell message. "We are truly thankful for the support, joy, and memories you all have helped create with us over the years."
From Soyka to Chica
The restaurant took over the space formerly occupied by longtime neighborhood spot Soyka, breathing new life into the iconic Miami location. Chica was part of the 50 Eggs Hospitality Group, founded by restaurateur John Kunkel, and operated in partnership with celebrity chef Lorena Garcia. The group also runs popular restaurants like Yardbird and Spring Chicken.The restaurant featured Latin American flavors from Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, and Peru. Popular dishes included handmade piloncillo asado negro arepas topped with braised short rib, sea bass a la plancha, and the Instagram-worthy churro bouquet served with sparklers.
Chica's bar program featured Latin-inspired cocktails like La Lavanda (a smoked lavender martini) and the Spicy Mamacita (strawberry jalapeño highball). The restaurant's chic, colorful décor and high-energy atmosphere made it a popular spot for brunch, group dining, and special events.
La Mar by Gastón Acurio has closed its iconic waterfront Mandarin Oriental location in Brickell Key after 11 years.
Photo by World Red Eye
Another One Bites The Dust
Chica's closure adds to what's been a brutal summer for Miami's restaurant scene. The city has lost nearby Ms. Cheezious after nearly a decade, Michelin-starred EntreNos in Miami Shores, and La Mar by Gastón Acurio on Brickell Key (even though the latter will be reopening at some point in a new location).Others like Byblos on South Beach, Ensenada in MiMo, and Coconut Grove's Sereia have announced "temporary" closures, though whether they'll actually reopen remains unclear. Rising costs, lease disputes, and the post-pandemic reality have forced these spots to shutter, leaving empty storefronts where packed dining rooms once were filled.
Vegas Still Open
The Miami closure doesn't mark the end of Chica as a whole. The brand continues operating in Las Vegas, where the restaurant group hopes to welcome displaced Miami fans."While it's difficult to say goodbye to our Miami home, the spirit of Chica lives on in Las Vegas — and we would be honored to welcome you there and continue sharing our flavors and hospitality with you," the team's message concluded.
No word yet on what restaurant might take over the iconic space next.
Chica. 5556 NE Fourth Ct., Miami; chicarestaurant.com/chica-restaurant-miami.
