Michelin-starred chefs Carolina Sanchez and Iñaki Murua from Ikaro in La Rioja, Spain are bringing their culinary expertise to Miami with the opening of MOMENTO by Ikaro this summer. Located in bustling Downtown, the restaurant aims to transform Miami’s food scene by blending Spain’s rich food traditions with the city’s lively spirit, offering an immersive dining experience where each dish is a carefully crafted masterpiece designed to inspire awe and exploration.
Diners can anticipate a range of dishes that honor the bold flavors of Spain and Latin America, enhanced by the chefs’ creative methods and artistic flair, resulting in both technically advanced and intensely flavorful offerings. Using a state-of-the-art wood oven and fresh, local ingredients, the menu will showcase 14 specially selected plates, including standouts like Wood-Fired Oven Turbot, Wood-Fired Oven Lamb Shoulder, Amazonian Tiradito, and Ikaro’s renowned Espuma de Abatonca.
Crafted by CM Design Studio, MOMENTO by Ikaro blends Miami’s lively spirit with Spanish architectural grace. The sprawling eatery, featuring distinct areas like a verdant outdoor dining patio, a cutting-edge visible kitchen, and a cozy speakeasy bar, envelops visitors in a flowing space that fosters a warm ambiance, making MOMENTO a modern and snug social hub. The decor showcases artisanal elements and one-of-a-kind items from Cuenca, such as metal lighting fixtures and wooden entryways, alongside a mix of old and new artwork, instilling a deep sense of heritage and genuineness. Natural elements like abundant greenery and climbing plants create a peaceful garden feel, while a striking entrance adorned with vivid bougainvillea sets a welcoming mood. The color scheme mixes deep azure tones with soft, muted pastels, adding richness and allure. Open kitchen views connect diners to the culinary craft, while textured plaster walls, decorative mirrors, and plush seating merge vintage charm with contemporary comfort.
Chef Murua, from Álava, refined his cooking skills at Santo Domingo de La Calzada Hospitality School and sharpened them at top Michelin-starred eateries like Martin Berasategui, Azurmendi, and Els Cassals. Chef Sanchez, born in Cuenca, Ecuador, studied culinary arts at the University of Cuenca and Le Cordon Bleu in Lima, gaining valuable know-how at the famous El Celler de Can Roca. Notably, she’s the first Ecuadorian chef to earn a Michelin star. They joined forces to open Ikaro Restaurant in Logroño, La Rioja, which got its first Michelin star in 2018 and later received more Repsol Suns. In 2023, they were named food ambassadors of La Rioja, recognizing their key role in boosting the area’s food scene.
MOMENTO by Ikaro is at 1306 N Miami Ave, Miami, Florida 33136, and serves dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 5-11 pm. You can join the reservation waitlist now on their website.
For more information, visit https://momentomiami.comor follow on Instagram @momento.miami.
