While "Hola!" is the customary "Hello" greeting in South Florida,
Douglas Rodriguez's Ola Restaurant is actually an acronym for its
provenance - "Of Latin America." Likewise, while South Beach restaurants
pride themselves on being super-charged with the sexy energy of the
city, Ola at the Sanctuary offers a peaceful respite from the
caffeinated 24-hour march.
Nestled on a quiet stretch of James Avenue,
north of the bright lights of Lincoln Road, Ola features an 80-seat
indoor/outdoor patio restaurant and a smaller rooftop dining area that
can be reserved for private
parties or a romantic dinner-for-two prepared just for you. The vibe is
cool and quiet, spa-like and serene.
Executive Chef Horacio Rivadero oversees the production of the
restaurant's signature ceviches and a small-plate tapas style menu in
addition to his responsibilities at the Coral Gables Steak & Tapas
location. Perhaps the best approach to the menu is to sample a few
varieties of raw fish marinated in a lime infusion spiked with chili or
cooled with avocado and topped with the traditional crunchy corn nuts
favored in Ecuador. If you are not a fan of sushi or sashimi, this may
not be your best dining option. Consider instead a culinary happy hour -
trying a taste of the bright, tropical small plates and a cocktail at
sunset. Entrees from Hudson Valley duck breast to sumptuous crispy pork
served with yuca will satisfy the meat eaters in your party. Just
remember to leave room for the deconstructed Key Lime Pie afterward.
If you're looking for a respite from the bright lights of our little
city, Ola brings a fresh approach to dining on South Beach. Stop by and
say, "Hola!" to the cuisine Of Latin America- it's well worth the
journey to discover something new and delicious.
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