Founded by culinary and entertainment entrepreneur Izzet Çapa, the sprawling indoor-outdoor restaurant occupies the corner of 560 Washington Ave. with three distinct dining areas, including an oasis-like garden featuring live entertainment.
The decor, a bold, extravagant mix of greenery, leopard wallpaper, rose hues, and crystal chandeliers, is the backdrop for executive chef Yılmaz Güney's cuisine and their mix of classic and avant-garde dishes.
"Pickle is more than just a restaurant," says Çapa. "It's a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a unique blend of tradition and contemporary trends in both food and ambiance."
The Menu Features Armenian, Greek, and Turkish Delights
There are shareable appetizers to start, like Armenian onion dalma, a dish of onion layers stuffed with rice, aromatic spices, and sweet currants slow-cooked over a wood fire, as well as Turkish beef-filed manti dumpling, a colorful delicacy topped with a tapestry of textures including caramelized tomato sauce, garlicky yogurt, sumac, and dry mint. From there, flavor-rich kebabs feature prominently on the main course list in the beef, lamb, and chicken varieties (or a sampler with all three options). The offerings also stretch to Greece through bright, balanced mezze like tzatziki yogurt and lava bean purée.
Those interested in Turkish, Greek, and Israeli wine will find interesting varietals in the wine list here, but the true findings come from the indoor cocktail bar. When dinner is done, stop by for a nightcap of "Gold Tiger," a concoction of Ketel One vodka passion liqueur mixed with passion fruit, egg white, and lime juice.
The restaurant is open until 1 a.m., so you can also gear up for a long night with signature cocktails like the "Affogato Turkish Coffee Martini," blending Belvedere vodka, Kahlua, and Turkish ice cream served with fresh cotton candy.
To eat at Pickle, Çapa summarizes, is to experience the diversity of tried-and-true yet dynamic cuisines in a setting that matches its surroundings.
"We've created a space that embraces the vibrant energy of South Beach while delivering an authentic yet forward-thinking dining experience."
Pickle Lounge & Restaurant. 560 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; 786-216-7230; thepicklemiami.com. Open daily from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
