Miami Beach just got a sprinkle of sophistication with the debut of Mimi Chinese, where regional Chinese cuisine meets innovation. This isn’t your average Chinese restaurant experience; it’s a fiery, flavorful fiesta courtesy of the creative minds of David Schwartz and Braden Chong.
Picture this: succulent chicken wings, generously stuffed with sticky rice and mushrooms, arriving at your table. The dish is plump and inviting, teasing your taste buds with a promise of what’s to come. Move over to the sea bass, drenched in a spicy ensemble of house-fermented Fresno chiles, delivering a kick that asserts its Hunan origin with authority.
Mimi Chinese is making waves at its Alton Road location, offering a culinary ride through the diverse provinces of China. The wings are a delightful ode to Guangdong and Taiwan, while the sea bass introduces diners to the bold, spicy notes characteristic of Hunan cuisine. And let’s not overlook the Chongqing signature, hidden chicken, which playfully sneaks in under a blanket of heaven-facing peppers—all part of a menu that elevates and respects traditional flavors.
The essence of Mimi Chinese is encapsulated not only in its dishes but in the atmosphere it creates. Think vibrant dining spaces with curated music and a thoughtfully crafted beverage program, including wine, sake, and cocktails. It’s no wonder that the establishment has been met with enthusiasm rather than opposition, even as they playfully challenge Miami’s palate with their Sichuan peppercorn-induced tingles.
Co-founder David Schwartz’s mission was never about reinventing Chinese cuisine but rather providing an authentic yet accessible environment for diners to explore its nuances. His journey into the world of Chinese flavors began in childhood, weaving through Toronto’s eclectic food scene and his travels across Asia. For Schwartz and Chong, Mimi Chinese embodies a love affair with regional Chinese cooking, offering diners a chance to savor tradition with a twist.
From dishes like crispy smacked cucumbers to aromatic typhoon shelter shrimp, accompanied by enticing drinks like an oolong sour, Mimi Chinese offers an immersive dining experience. Schwartz shares his discoveries, hoping to enlighten diners about regional specialties. The restaurant’s resource on their favorite local Chinese eateries highlights this ongoing exploration of flavor and culture.
As co-founders and culinary innovators, Schwartz and Chong craft their own Sichuan mala oil and Hong Kong-style sauces. They revel in the complex process of creating intensely flavorful pepper sauces, bringing depth to each dish. In the warm embrace of Miami, they’re finding success in their mission, drawing in adventurous diners keen to experience the authentic tastes that Mimi Chinese promises.
Schwartz recalls his initial concerns about introducing bold flavors to Miami’s culinary landscape, but the positive reception has been a pleasant surprise. Diners new to the unique sensation of Sichuan pepper tingling on their tongues quickly adapt and even come to crave the experience. The hidden chili chicken, for instance, is a narrative in itself, as its spicy allure promises an unforgettable dining adventure.
Mimi Chinese in Miami Beach skillfully combines the essence of regional Chinese dishes with a contemporary touch. It’s a place where dining transforms into an experience, engaging all the senses and inviting you to explore the breadth of Chinese culinary traditions. This culinary haven is not just about eating but about enjoying a journey through flavorful terrains, driven by a passion for authenticity and innovation.
Source: Forbes
