Wrought iron chandeliers, hand-carved Dominican statues, and oversized images of the Dominican Republic—Spain's first capital in the New World—are among the decor highlights at Mamajuana Café, a new Coral Gables restaurant that opened in February.
The 5,500-square-foot restaurant is located in the former Chispa restaurant space, across the street from high-end shopping complex Village of Merrick Park, and seats 375. The second of its kind (the original opened in New York in 2005), Mamajuna pays tribute to Spanish culture in its architecture, ambiance, and cuisine.
Semiprivate dining options include the 10-seat chef's room overlooking the kitchen and two patios flanking the main entrance for as many as 20 guests.
Designed by chef Ricardo Cardona, the menu features Nuevo Latin cuisine with dishes incorporating chorizo, saffron rice, and truffle-infused mashed potatoes. Mamajuana also offers a wine list overseen by in-house sommelier Yamil Martinez.
The restaurant derives its name from the Mamajuana elixir—available on the menu—which combines herbs with rum, honey, and various spices and was developed by the Domincan Republic's native Taino Indians to treat ailments such as stomach flu and sore throat.
Full buyouts and custom menus are available for private events.
