The Wait for Fooq’s Is Over and the Result Is Grand
The five-year wait was worth it
Ten years ago the original Fooq’s was the ultimate downtown “if you know you know spot.” It was a tiny charming nook with not even a dozen tables, the kind of place where the owner got to know everyone who came through the doors. Tucked away in a gritty-ish corner near Club Space and All Day Cafe (RIP) you always saw an interesting mix of people walking by depending on the hour - and that was half of the fun.
The ‘2016’ nostalgia is everywhere right now, and Fooq’s is a part of that chapter for me. While everyone else is reposting grainy selfies to harken back to a “simpler time,” this is the one part of that era I actually wanted (and excited!) to see come back.
After a long hiatus (after a 2021 pandemic-era shutter) Fooq’s finally returned to Miami last week, inside a massive 14,000-square-foot former warehouse in Little River.
But this is hardly a reopening - it’s a complete evolution. The “Feel Good Food” ethos is still there, but they are way more upscale now.
So, how does it compare to the original Downtown location?: It is a complete 180. The original spot was tiny, albeit, in a charming way. This new version in Little River takes that original vibe and moves it into a much more high-end space. You will notice it immediately in the level of service - details like crumbing in between courses, multiple managers checking in on the tables, they even have a bathroom attendant now! Que fancy! It is a grander experience that proves that Fooq’s has officially grown up.
The Space: The new location is a dramatic jump from the original downtown space expanding into a 14,000-square-foot complex. You enter through a beautiful foyer that serves as a waiting room that also has a bar, meaning you can start your tab the moment you walk in. The main dining room features three-story ceilings and dramatic drapery that creates a sense of drama. You can oversee the chefs working the custom wood-fire and charcoal grills in the open kitchen.
They even brought back the bookshelf from the first location, now in a much larger form. Upstairs is the Lion’s Den, a retro-hip vinyl lounge that goes late on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I didn’t get a chance to check it out, but it’s nice to know there’s another spot to grab a drink in the Little River area now.
What to Eat & Drink: Chef Andrew Bazzini is leaning into a “Persian-influenced American” menu anchored by a custom wood-fire grill. Start with anything on the sourdough. Seriously. The mushroom conserve and the variety of dips are standout small bites. The Little Gem Caesar is an interesting preparation served like a dressed wedge with a hit of dill. For an Instagrammable moment, the kebabs arrive on a large sword-like contraption.
For the main course, everyone recommends the Black Opal NY Strip. Fooq’s is the only restaurant in the country carrying this Australian steak, and it is perfectly cooked. The Persian Pepper Pasta, a spin on spicy rigatoni, is another must-order. For a salty kick, get the Pommes Fifi with a side of Kaluga caviar. For dessert, the Manchego Strawberry Cheesecake is delicious for those who can actually tolerate lactose (le sigh). They are also launching a soft serve program in the coming weeks.
Don’t Miss: The sourdough pides, the Black Opal steak, and the Persian pepper pasta.
Perfect For: Groups of all sizes, especially with the $95 per head “Fooq’s Feast” that lets you share a variety of items. It is also a great spot for a date or grabbing drinks in a neighborhood where there aren’t many other options for going out.
Expect to Pay: About $150 per person. You can make it out for cheaper with the aforementioned Fooq’s Feast.
How is the parking? Street parking is limited and not very abundant. The best move is the $10 valet right out front which is quick and allows you to call ahead for your car.
@fooqsmiami // 150 NW 73rd St.,Little River