World-renowned enologist, Alejandro Vigil, known as the “Messi of Wines” by MICHELIN Guide, is thrilled to make the U.S. debut in Miami of his famed Casa Vigil in the heart of Upper Buena Vista. The rustic upscale restaurant situated on two floors brings an enogastronomic experience to Miami with its Mediterranean and Argentinian-influenced menu designed to pair perfectly with its high-quality and unique wines.
First debuting Casa Vigil in Mendoza, Argentina, in 2015, the winery restaurant has recently received its first MICHELIN Star and MICHELIN Green Star, and is listed on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants guide for best restaurant and bars in Latin America. Known for offering exceptional wines, Casa Vigil Miami sets the stage for an immersive and educational journey into the world of wine. Guests can sample affordable, exotic and rare vintage wines, each reflecting the distinct terroir of Mendoza, among other wine regions in the world.
“We are delighted to bring the essence of Mendoza to Miami with the opening of our second location,” Vigil said. “Not only do we want to deliver exceptional wines, but we also want to create an environment where guests can deepen their appreciation for the art and science of winemaking. We believe that the unique combination of our wines, cuisine and ambiance will provide a memorable experience for our guests.”
A master of his trade, Vigil has become a wine guru for lovers of wine worldwide. Recognized as Winemaker of the Year by Tim Atkins in 2019, Vigil is one of the most awarded winemakers and enthusiasts in the Americas with creations that gained prestigious awards and earned accolades on Robert Parker’s 100-Point Wines, including El Gran Enemigo, Adriana Vineyards, Malbec Argentino, Nicolas Catena, Estiba Reservada, DV Catena and Angelica Zapata, among others.
Under the helm of Chef Cesar Gonzalez Aznar, an expert in Mediterranean cuisine, Casa Vigil Miami will offer a five-course tasting menu with three levels of wine pairings all carefully designed to maximize flavors and introduce new regions, vintages and styles. Guests can also order a la carte for a more shareable experience and indulge in items like empanadas, tablas and meats made with the highest quality sustainable ingredients. Signature dishes include Rib Eye Milanesa, 40-day Dry Aged Braised Angust Costilla, Empanadas, Buffalo Burrata, and the Chilean Sea Bass. Don’t forget to indulge in the award-winning Vasque Cheesecake.
One of the unique aspects of Casa Vigil Miami is its commitment to wine education. Guests engage in wine tastings, guided by award-winning sommelier Miguel Martinez and explore the nuances of each varietal. The restaurant aims to demystify the world of wine, providing an accessible and enjoyable learning experience for both connoisseurs and novices alike. Casa Vigil also offers an exclusive serving of rare and collectible wines such as Chateau Petrus 2004, Giancomo Conterno “Monfortino Riserva” 2006, and Salon “Blanc de Blancs” 2002. In addition to its extensive wine program, the two 12-seat bars serve a variety of signature craft cocktails including the La Virgen Sagrada (mezcal, grilled pineapple, spices, lime, and tajin), El Infierno (tequila, rum, strawberry citrus, tarragon, and a touch of Absinthe), and Sacramento (Spanish Brandy, Biscotti Liqueur Quince, coconut milk, egg, and nutmeg).
Drawing inspiration from Dante’s Divine Comedy, Casa Vigil was designed by Mico Design and an Argentinian Architect, Ignacio Márquez. The 150-seat restaurant is divided into three distinct spaces, creating an architectural experience like no other. La Cava, the main dining room where the wine cellar houses over 700 labels; El Patio, the outdoor terrace where nature blends seamlessly with gastronomy and transports guests to their favorite vineyards; and El Cielo, the rooftop terrace boasting breathtaking panoramic views of Upper Buena Vista, which will open in January 2024. Guests can also admire a mural, curated by Ana Cufre, portraying the Virgin of Carrodilla (known as the Wine Virgin) which is traditionally depicted in a vineyard. However at Casa Vigil Miami the mural features more lush plants and elegant flamingos to align more with the energy Miami is known for. In addition, Casa Vigil has plans to open a market within the restaurant with a selection of wines from around the world that will be available on-the-go and for purchase.
Casa Vigil is located at 5020 NE 2nd Ave., and open Sunday through Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., with brunch soon to come on the weekends. The restaurant intends to launch a happy hour and a wine club in the future, allowing locals to connect and learn more about the vast world of wine. For reservations and more information, visit www.casavigilmiami.com, or follow on Instagram @CasaVigil.Miami. Reservations can also be made via Resy.com.
