CHICAGO-BORN LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU RESTAURANTS DEBUTS ITS FIRST MIAMI EATERY.

Summer hamachi from Aba. PHOTO COURTESY OF LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU RESTAURANTS

Chicago is known as one of the country’s culinary capitals, and now Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is bringing a taste of the Windy City to Miami as it presents the first Miami eatery, Aba, as part of its South Florida expansion. Located in the iconic Bal Harbour Shops, Aba is poised to become one of the city’s hottest new destinations, residing in the former Makoto space on the ground level, encompassing more than 240 indoor and outdoor seats.

Translating to “father” in Hebrew, Aba presents Mediterranean cuisine that spans the tastes and flavors of Israel, Lebanon, Turkey and Greece. Fusing fresh ingredients to create tongue-tantalizing dishes, chef CJ Jacobson’s culinary mastery shines through beloved plates ranging from the carrot and sunflower dip with sunflower tahini to torched toro toro with watermelon and olives; hamachi with charred avocado; shawarma spiced skirt steak with black garlic mushroom jus; and grilled mahi-mahi with roasted garlic yogurt.

Smoky garlic hummus PHOTO COURTESY OF LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU RESTAURANTS

What remains consistent is Jacobson’s bursting flavors and light consistency that allow guests to sample the colorful menu without feeling overwhelmed. Mixologist Liz Pearce complements the experience with her innovative bar program, which follows the same flavors of the Mediterranean and Southern California as the cuisine.

Green Chile Bramble cocktail. PHOTO COURTESY OF LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU RESTAURANTS

Joining a lineup of acclaimed eateries across the U.S. and touching down in Miami, Aba is a welcome addition to the prospering culinary scene in Miami. With a dazzling menu, quintessential setting amid the glitz and glamour of the mall, and warm hospitality, Aba invites diners to come join the family for a memorable meal. 9700 Collins Ave., Unit 101, Bal Harbour, @abarestaurant