Charcoal-Grilled Steaks and Diego Maradona’s Face
No seriously, his face is everywhere.
In Argentina, Diego Maradona isn’t just a soccer player, he’s a saint. At 1986 Steakhouse, his face watches over the dining room like a religious icon, reminding you that within here, futbol and fire are at the forefront of Argentinian culture. The brand new establishment brings an upscale modern edge to classic Argentinian tradition in the heart of Coconut Grove. Centered around live-fire cooking and traditional asado culture, it brings an inviting energy where friends and family can connect on a deeper level.
The restaurant’s signature tagline is “defined by fire,” and they mean it. Each dish brings a rich smokiness that only a charcoal grill can deliver. If meat’s not your thing, don’t fret, as the menu features reinvented salads, seafoods, poultry and a Kaluga caviar service if you’re feeling like a World Cup winner.
The Space: The smell of smoke and new leather upholstery hits your nostrils the moment you walk through the double-doors. The space feels warm and inviting with a glowing bar at the entrance, a wall of a wine cellar and a massive glass meat case displaying premium cuts ranging from skirt steak to Japanese A5. Unlike a traditional Argentine asado, where shouting and cheering is encouraged, the space was rather quiet with the soft sounds of Argentine rock music humming in the background. Plastered on the walls are the faces of Maradona, and if you order Diego’s Julep, you’ll have him at your table all night long in the form of a cocktail glass.
What to Eat & Drink: Any of the steaks are a safe bet. They come out still sizzling packed with flavor. The steaks could stand alone, but you’d be remiss to not douse them in 1986’s signature chimichurri made with imported Argentine spices. While I’m usually not a fan of kale salad, the grill marks completely elevated the plate and paired perfectly with the freshness of the apples and avocados. Save room for dessert, the Charcoal Grilled Banana Split is something I’ve never seen before, as the peel soaked up the smoky flavor yet its structure stayed intact. Inside, the warm banana melts in your mouth and is complemented with a dulce de leche ice cream that will for sure satisfy your sweet treat craving.
The cocktail program is famously crafted by Tres Monos, the renowned Buenos Aires Bar ranked as the No. 10 bar in the world by The World’s 50 Best Bars. The 1986 Sour did not disappoint as it delivered a nice citrus flavor with a subtle sandalwood.
Perfect for: Work dinner or just a boys night out.
Pro Tip: Sit by the windows, the people watching around MayFair Plaza is excellent!
Expect to Pay: Around $100 per person.
How’s the parking? It’s the Grove so it won’t come cheap, but your best bet is the garage at CocoWalk.
@1986steakhouse // 2911 Grand Ave Suite 111, Coconut Grove
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