By: Robert Lovi By: Robert Lovi | May 24, 2022 | Food & Drink,
BALAGAN, the much-anticipated restaurant to bring authentic Nikkei cuisine, uniquely crafted cocktails, and fantastic ambiance, is set to open in June 2022 in one of Miami's most dynamic neighborhoods.
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The 3000-square-foot indoor and outdoor restaurant is located in the heart of Wynwood. BALAGAN means a fantastic kind of chaos, where people will become part of a wonderful ambiance and group of people.
The food will have a variety of flavors and produce a variety of explosive sensations, a.k.a. chaos. Guests can enjoy the sake-forward beverage program and unique and festive cocktails upon entering the 100-seat indoor and outdoor restaurant. The crafted cocktails include Rose Cloud with Hou Hou Shu "Rose Clouds" Sparkling Sake, Hibiscus, Yuzu; Ginza Yesper with Iichiko Shochu, Ban Ryu Sake, Kombu Infused OkaKura Bermutto, Lemon Oil, and Shiso Exotic with Joto "The One with Clocks" Daiginjo Sake, Aloe Vera, Cucumber, Shiso, and Yuzu.
Ilan Sitt, Founder-CEO of Sherpa Consultancy (@Sherpaconsultancy), is the brains behind several of Miami's best restaurants, including Wayku, Paperfish, Jattö, and Piegari Ristorante, which are currently open in Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia and will open in Wynwood at the end of 2022. Sitt has aided in developing restaurant concepts with a 360-degree vision, from procuring real estate through training, menu creation, and marketing growth of the venues through these initiatives. Sherpa Consultancy is also responsible for the opening of Presidente Bar and Nino Gordo, two of the world's top fifty most fantastic bars in 2022.
"I am beyond excited for BALAGAN'S opening, and I'm positive that this new "chaos" will bring a flavorful explosion to our customers. It has been a brilliant team effort, and I am so grateful for everyone involved in this project. It's showtime!" Sitt said.
Along with Sitt, Miami chef Henry Hané, the brains behind B Bistro + Bakery in Brickell and Jattö in Wynwood, brings his significant knowledge from some of the world's most prestigious kitchens to BALAGAN. Hané will be producing culinary magic with an imaginative menu and high-end bar program with Executive Chef Juan Manuel Alva, the mastermind behind some of Miami's most incredible sushi restaurants. BALAGAN will provide a wide range of traditional Nikkei cuisine prepared with fresh, artisanal ingredients. Spicy Tuna Tostada with Spicy Rocoto Aioli, Chalaquita, Pickled White Onions, and Furikake. Truffle Salmon Tostada with Crema aji Amarillo, Crunch Garlic, and Avocado Puree are available for dinner.
Guests can indulge in other delightful items highlighting the menu like Hamachi with Chalaquita, Traditional Leche, Olive Oil, and Crunch Quinoa; Torched Scallop with Parmesan Leche, Lime Zest, Shaved Parm, and Daikon; and Corvina with Creamy Leche, White Beans, Fresno Chili, and Cilantro are just some of the tiradito options. Tuna Ceviche with Ginger Ponzu, Wakame, Avocado, Seared Pineapple, and Scallion; Tuna Kumquat Ceviche with Cancha, Togarashi, Mango, and Passion Fruit Ponzu.
"We think wynwood is the perfect place for BALAGAN due to the wide variety of people that circulate the area. We're excited to bring our version of mixed art through the flavors of Peru and japan," Hané said. "Our offering will have a twist of miami in it which we think will separate us from the others. Our medium price point we believe will also separate us in offering this cuisine at a much more affordable price."
According to Hané guests can expect a high end experience in both flavors and service at a medium price point in a gorgeous setting in the heart of Wynwood. He said they hope to bring Wynwood a new version of Nikkei cuisine through the eyes of a 305 local , while still respecting the traditional flavor profiles of the cuisine.
"We expect the Miami public to enjoy our food with open arms and appreciate the new style of nikkei cuisine we are bringing to the 305. They will definitely be in for a surprise once they try our rendition of the cuisine," Hané added.
BALAGAN is located at 295 NW 27th St. Dinner will be from Sunday to Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. For more information, visit the website and follow the restaurant's Instagram (@balagan.miami) to stay updated.
Photography by: Courtesy Balagan