Miami's latest dining trend is here. Pass the syrup
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The pancakes at Lala's come with a dulce de leche butter. Photo: Courtesy Lala's Burgers
Coming off what some considered one of the worst summers for Miami's dining scene, a handful of restaurants and bars are turning to the most important meal of the day: breakfast.
Why it matters: Last year, local mainstays, Michelin-starred eateries and James Beard-winning chefs announced closures, citing declining foot traffic and reservations, plus the rising cost of food, rent and insurance.
- Early-morning menus could help restaurants counter that trend by capturing a broader demographic, one local chef told Axios.
State of plate: At the end of January, To Be Determined, the Coral Way restaurant known for its intimate atmosphere and upscale menu, announced it would serve breakfast "to keep things a little more casual" and to "extend the versatility of the space."
- On March 1, Flagler St. Bakery, a coffee and pastry kiosk, launched a Sunday pop-up at Over Under, downtown Miami's beloved watering hole known for its cheeseburger and stellar happy hour.
- That same week, Gramps Getaway announced its new morning cafe, and Lala's Burgers kicked off its weekend brunch.
What they're saying: Miami's hospitality industry "has been facing challenges, and I think we all see the writing on the wall," Jeff Bud, owner of Lala's, told Axios. (He and his wife, Laura, also own Apocalypse BBQ.)
- "I would say this is a reflection of a time when we know our necks are being pressed. We saw what happened last year, and there's no reason to think this year won't be the same," said Bud, who credits his head chef for pushing the boundary on what the restaurant could offer.
- "All the greatest things begin out of need," Bud said. "And while I forever believe [Miami chefs] are driven by creativity and passion, I think we're seeing we can't be creative if we lose our restaurants."
Lala's brunch is available on weekends. Gramps Cafe is open Monday-Thursday; Flagler Street is Sundays only.
- To Be Determined offers its breakfast menu every day.
What we're watching: Whether Miami's seasonal slowdown claims more restaurants and bars this summer.
- The dry spell in recent years began after the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, which is the first weekend of May.