Award-winning Mexican transplant Zeru will make its Miami debut this winter, as part of its international expansion. This will mark the third location for the restaurant group, which has outposts in the upscale San Ángel and Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhoods of Mexico City.
The group has joined forces with Philippe Moullet, Zuma’s former global managing director, who will oversee the Miami project.
“I’m delighted to be partnering up with the Zeru Group to open their first international outpost
here in Miami, “ says Moullet. “Zeru prides itself for cuisine that represents the best of the lauded San Sebastian’s unique blend of simplicity and top-quality ingredients. Our shared passion and commitment to quality without compromise makes this a natural collaboration.”
Zeru, which means “heaven” in Basque, will serve a signature menu inspired by the cuisine of San Sebatian, a coastal city in the north of the Basque country known as a top Michelin-starred destination in Europe. Highlights are the Getaria-style seasonal fish options, as well as dishes such as Striped Seabass and Green Leaves and King Crab with Saffron Mayo and Grilled Lemon, cooked over charcoal.
“Expert hot coal grilling, the beautiful and simple combination of wood, smoke and flame present since the beginning of gastronomy, is what gives meaning to our cuisine,” says Zeru’s Partner Chef Israel Aretxiga. “We apply the traditional techniques of the Basque asador to the finest ingredients to create a unique gastronomical experience of authentic flavors.”
Zeru Miami will occupy a sprawling 5,400-square-feet space on the ground floor of the AKA Hotel, situated in the heart of the Brickell neighborhood. The 200-seat indoor/outdoor restaurant will feature a bright, contemporary dining room decked out in earthy materials and a while and blue color palette. A trendy 20-seat bar will anchor the inviting area, which leads to a lively outdoor terrace framed by lush vegetation.
The Zeru Group originally opened in Mexico in 2009 to much acclaim for its stellar food offerings and customer service and is known as the best Spanish restaurant in Mexico City. This year, Zeru was recognized as the sixth best restaurant in Mexico City by MB by Marco Beteta, the most renowned gastronomic and lifestyle reference in Mexico.
“Authenticity is what connects Miami with Zeru, a place where tradition and innovation meet,” says Executive Chef Gabriela Guitrón. “Like the Magic City, our restaurant has an identity of its own, an authentic dining experience of flavors and textures that have been preserved and enhanced with ingredients that speak for themselves.”
Zeru Miami will be located at 1395 Brickell Ave.; 786-809-1786; zerumiami.com; @zerumiami. The restaurant will be open daily from 6 p.m. to midnight.
