Chef Michael White's debut standalone restaurant in Miami, MIKA, opened its doors on December 12th, 2024, introducing his renowned culinary expertise to Coral Gables. Collaborating with Alex Pirez and Matt Safchik, White masterfully merges Mediterranean and coastal influences, celebrating the rich flavors of Italy, France, and beyond while showcasing South Florida's exceptional seafood and fresh produce.
MIKA's menu features delicate crudos, house-made pastas, and skillfully grilled proteins, accompanied by classic cocktails and an impressive wine collection housed in a striking 1,700-bottle cellar. Signature favorites such as lobster burrata and fusilli with bone marrow return to the menu, joined by new creations like spaghetti with blue crab and caviar—designed to cater to the South Florida palate.
Describing MIKA as "truffles in blue jeans," White brings refined flavors together with casual elegance, all wrapped in the welcoming warmth of home.
Located within The Plaza Coral Gables, MIKA is designed to be a community hub—a go-to spot for casual dinners, business meetings, or stylish nights out. Renowned firm Bishop Design crafted the interiors, blending natural stone, warm textures, and custom lighting to create a Mediterranean-inspired space that feels both inviting and sophisticated.
In addition to its 100-seat main dining room, MIKA offers a chic bar and lounge area for pre- or post-dinner drinks, a private dining room with seating for 36, and an outdoor dining area perfect for special gatherings.
With over three decades of experience, Chef Michael White has been a driving force in Italian fine dining. Best known for his Michelin-starred Manhattan restaurant, Marea, White has earned widespread acclaim, including recognition from The New York Times and a James Beard Award. Now, his culinary journey continues in Coral Gables, where he brings Mediterranean flavors to life using South Florida's finest local ingredients.
The restaurant's name holds special meaning, reflecting both White's Italian nickname and a personal connection: "MIKA" is also the name of Alex Pirez's daughter, symbolizing the familial warmth that defines the restaurant's identity.
White's menu at MIKA blends tradition with innovation. Crudos feature artful combinations like langoustines with caviar and scallops with gooseberries, while house-made pastas honor Italian roots with dishes such as tagliatelle with ragu Bolognese. Locally sourced seafood, including Key West shrimp and stone crabs, further ties South Florida's coastal richness to Mediterranean culinary traditions.
Renowned for his hands-on approach to cooking and mentorship, White remains actively involved in MIKA's kitchen, sharing his expertise with rising chefs while continuously perfecting his craft. Signature dishes like his celebrated fusilli with octopus and bone marrow make a memorable return, offering longtime fans a taste of nostalgia while inviting new guests to experience his culinary artistry firsthand.
