The chef, whose restaurant Ariete in Coconut Grove won a Michelin star in 2022, will showcase this affection through the opening of El Vecino, a new cigar and cocktail bar in Miami Worldcenter.
"Cigars are a big part of my heritage," said Beltran in a statement. "Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a family vacation, or just a Friday night, a good cigar is always part of the picture. Cigars are part of the community ritual I grew up with, and I want to bring that sense of connection to El Vecino."
El Vecino is Ariete Hospitality Group's third concept in the Miami center development, along with the exclusive French restaurant Brasserie Laurel and Chug's Express, a quick and informal version of the group's Chug's Diner in Coconut Grove.
Next to Brasserie Laurel, the nearly 150-square-meter space focuses on giving diners a place to relax in original leather, velvet, and other vintage-designed booths, with state-of-the-art purification and humidification systems.
The cigar menu will cater to cigar enthusiasts but also aims to make novices and the curious feel comfortable.
There will also be a cocktail menu with "unusual selections," according to Ariete Hospitality Group's wine director, Adrian Lopez. The menu is still being tweaked, but Lopez reports that ports will play a leading role.
Expect to see Beltran in the news next week as well. While Ariete is likely to retain its Michelin star, two of its other restaurants, Brasserie Laurel and The Gibson Room in Miami, were added to the Michelin Guide and highlighted as "new," with the idea of urging diners to try them before the Michelin stars are awarded in 2023. The Michelin 2023 awards will take place on May 11 at LoanDepot Park in Miami.
El Vecino
Where: 698 NE First Ave., Suite G-172, Miami
Opening: May 5
Hours: noon-midnight Sunday-Thursday; noon-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday
More information: www.elvecinomiami.com