Casual Chic Beachside Gastro-Cantina to open at Stanton South Beach
Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood will soon be welcoming a vibrant new Mexican restaurant to its robust dining scene: Lolo’s Surf Cantina. Slated to open December 2016 at the beautifully-refurbished Stanton South Beach hotel, the beachside oasis is the brainchild of heralded Chef/Partner Richard Ampudia and Plan Do See, a global hospitality brand based in Japan with multiple holdings in New York, LA, Chicago, Bali and, now, Miami Beach. Named after Ampudia’s beloved grandmother, Lolo, the restaurant will reflect the convivial spirit of Mexican hospitality with bold and inventive fare inspired by Baja California.
Ampudia, a Mexico City native and Brooklynite since the late ‘80s, has enjoyed a celebrated culinary career. Hailed as the “Godfather of Mexican Street Food,” he has been involved in many award-winning concepts including La Esquina, Café Habana, and Bar Bruno in New York and currently serves as a consultant to many international concepts such as La Bodega Negra in London. “We really want to capture the fun and warm hospitality of a Mexican cantina with a simple but creative menu reminiscent of a gastropub,” says Ampudia. “This is a Mexican concept but there won’t be a sombrero and maraca to be found. Lolo’s will be about the heart and spirit of Mexican cooking. Tacos will definitely be on the menu, but they are not the focus.”
The affordably priced, flavor forward menu will evoke the cantina-inspired spirit of family-style dining. Guests can expect the bold spices of authentic Mexican cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, fresh tortillas, and house-made salsas and sauces. Offerings will include light and healthy options including customizable gluten-free and vegetarian dishes; whole meats will be prepared a la plancha and designed to be perfectly paired with the restaurant’s vegetable centric sides.
Lolo’s beverage program will showcase a refreshing selection of beer cocktails, margaritas, non-alcoholic aguas frescas, and an extensive list of tequilas and mezcales. The varied menu will be curated by renowned Mexico City mixologist, Jose Luis Leon of Baltra Bar and Licoreria Limantour, named one of “The World’s 50 Best Bars.”
Steps away from the ocean, Lolo’s will be a casual and approachable restaurant for locals and visitors alike, with convenient grab-and-go options for those who are heading to the beach or delivery options for Miami Beach residents. “When conceptualizing the restaurant we definitely took locals, specifically South of Fifth residents, into consideration,” adds Ampudia. “Lolo’s will have the polish and sophistication for a Saturday night out with friends but will also be perfectly suited for families looking for great food in a welcoming setting. We’re happy to be collaborating with local breweries, farms, and suppliers and can’t wait to be a part of such a lively dining scene.” The 3,000 square-foot restaurant – designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio – will feature a festive and bright interior that blends Old World style with contemporary flair. Designed for any occasion, Lolo’s ties together multiple dining areas including a full service bar, an open dining room that seats more than 60, and a cozy alfresco patio with seating for up to 16.
Lolo’s Surf Cantina is located at the Stanton South Beach, south of 5th street on Miami Beach at 161 Ocean Drive. The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner daily.
Telephone: (305) 735-6973; website: www.loloscantina.com
Follow Lolo’s Surf Cantina:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/loloscantina
Twitter/Instagram: @lolosmiami
