Lilikoi Organic Living, the all-day breakfast nook beloved by South of Fifth residents suddenly closed in the spring of 2023, leaving its regulars heartbroken.
This was when Garry Kanfer, owner of Kissaki, which was being constructed at the time of its closing, knew he had to do something about it. He cherished that sense of community surrounding the brunch spot and the legacy Lilioki had built in the South of Fifth neighborhood.
Kanfer saw himself in a position to help, and so he did.
"When they closed, I knew we had to step in. That's what good neighbors do," he says. "They played a vital role in the local community, and we're excited to reintroduce their fan-favorite items and some exciting new dishes with a Kissaki flair."
Thanks to Kanfer, Lilikoi reopened on Wednesday, October 23.
Continuing the Legacy on the Patio, With Indoor Dining Coming Soon
Founded in 2016, the tiny family-owned restaurant opened with a mission centered on sustainability and organic dishes. Its signature dishes and vegetarian-friendly fare played a big part in the restaurant, quickly building a loyal customer base that turned into its own community.Now, Lilikoi will continue its long legacy in the South of Fifth neighborhood with its new partnership. While its beloved signature dishes will remain the same, the new menu includes exciting additions to be executed with Japanese elegance.
Lilikoi cofounder Silvana Raballo shares, "This partnership brings a fresh energy to the brand, and we can't wait to welcome back our loyal patrons, as well as new guests." Currently, the duo is revamping the interior space, adding some modern touches and new branding. In the meantime, seating is available on their pre-existing patio for covered outdoor dining (seats up to 40 guests) in addition to takeout and delivery.
The indoor dining room will be open in mid-November.
The New Lilikoi Menu Has Brunch Staples With Asian Flair
Chef Anderson Daboin is in charge of executing the new menu at the restaurant and guaranteeing Lilikoi remains true to its essence. He started as a cook at Lilikoi and has worked his way up at the restaurant, becoming a key figure and driving force in its evolution.The signature Lilikoi breakfast and brunch menu is available all day with dishes that include oatmeal made with kombucha-fermented oats, sunflower seeds, dates, bananas, and blueberries; a breakfast burrito filled with scrambled eggs, kale, housemade aioli, black beans, and chicken; a vegan kale caesar salad tossed with kale, tahini soy, nori flakes, nutritional yeast; a mahi mahi burger topped with tomato, coleslaw, housemade tartar sauce served on whole wheat bread or a gluten-free bun; and a vegetable egg frittata baked with eggs, portobello mushrooms, goat cheese, onions, and spinach.
New menu items include a crab Benedict layered with snow crab, eggs, potatoes or greens, hollandaise sauce, and served on whole wheat bread or a gluten-free bun; matcha pancakes made of buttermilk soufflé pancakes topped with Japanese matcha crema and matcha powder; and caramelized baked potato topped with chicken or tuna salad.
The restaurant also offers brunch cocktails, fresh pressed juices, and smoothies that offer superfood add-ons.
Lilikoi Organic Living. 500 South Pointe Dr., Ste. 180, Miami Beach; lilikoiorganicliving.com. Reopens Wednesday, October 23, then open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.