Source: Eater Miami
After a brief stint as a well-received pop-up in 2019, Erba is back — with a new permanent location in Coral Gables. The newcomer from the Alpareno Group, from chef Niven Patel and Mohamed Alkassar, showcases classic Italian dishes with Florida twists.
“The style of cooking that I do, which is ingredient-driven, is inherently Italian. But we’re incorporating elements like hearts of palm, Florida avocado, and conch into our menu, which isn’t typical to Italian menus,” said Patel. “It’s about blending local flavors with Italian techniques.”
Much of the inspiration behind Erba’s menu stems from Rancho Patel, a nearby farm owned by Patel. The farm emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices, from crop rotation to composting.
Denver steak with bone marrow salsa verde and Hakurei turnips | Erba
Ravioli with black truffle, roasted pears, ricotta, and nutmeg | Erba
Mafaldine with Bahamian Conch, Vermentino, lemon, and parsley | Erba
The restaurant also offers an Italian-focused wine list with over 120 bottles, designed in collaboration with Kirsta Grauberger, Alpareno Restaurant Group’s Beverage Director. Additionally, patrons can sip on farm-to-glass cocktails crafted in partnership with bartender Scott Beattie, who has created cocktail menus for the likes of the three-Michelin-starred the Restaurant at Meadowood in Napa Valley.
Erba can seat up to 150 guests, spanning its dining area, bar, chef’s table, and private section. Saladino Design Studio crafted the decor, blending Old World pieces with modern elements centered on ‘love’ and ‘connection’. A bright foyer welcomes guests before walking into a space with vivid pink and red walls, Cupid-centric wallpaper with a playful touch of bold colors, and a dog named Dante.
The dining area of Erba
Alkassar and Patel at Erba
“From our whimsical wallpaper to the ambient music—think Marvin Gaye—it’s all curated to exude warmth and passion with a vibrant touch reminiscent of the city of Miami,” said Alkassar.
Erba is the latest restaurant in Alpareno’s collection, joining the likes of Ghee Indian Kitchen in Kendall and neighboring Coral Gables’ restaurants Orno and Mamey.
As for the group, they are thrilled to continue their expansion in the neighborhood. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the warmth and support from the community. Their genuine appreciation for our offerings has been heartening, making us feel truly at home,” said Alkassar.
Erba opens to the public on Thursday, October 5 at 227 South Dixie Highway. The restaurant will be open Sunday to Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday to Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
For more information, visit: Erba Restaurant in Coral Gables