Lolo’s Surf Cantina, a Baja-inspired Mexican eatery, located in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood at Marriott Stanton South Beach, opened quietly at the end of of December 2016.  The concept, created in collaboration with Chef/Partner Richard Ampudia and Plan Do See, a global hospitality brand based in Japan with multiple holdings in New York, LA, Chicago and Bali, reflects the convivial spirit of Mexican hospitality with bold and inventive fare sourced from local purveyors.

All images appearing in this post photographed by Holli Lapes, property of TheSoFlaSage.com

The flavor forward menu is crafted by Ampudia, a Mexico City native hailed as the “Godfather of Mexican Street Food” and executed by Chef de Cuisine Lourdes Herman also a native of Mexico who has enjoyed a successful culinary career in Miami with stints at The Setai, 1 Hotel South Beach and R House. The accessibly priced menu focuses on authentic and traditional Mexican cuisine and offers a variety of easily customizable options for vegetarians and those with gluten sensitivities.

The peppers used to make the dark red salsa are imported from mexico. It’s smoky and delicious! The salsa verde with poblano peppers is sweet yet subtly spicy, not what you may be used to from a salsa verde. Hands down some of the best salsa I’ve ever had, I wanted to drench all my food in it, but didn’t need to because everything was so flavorful that I didn’t want to mask any of the other flavors. Even the tortilla chips were the bomb! You can tell that they are homemade.

Vegan Aguachile (GF) Hearts of palm, avocado, apple, cilantro, pumpkin seeds

This was a nice refreshing appetizer with a citrus zing and a creamy element from the avocado.

Mayan Dip Silky pumpkin seed dip served with vegetable crudite

I love the use of jimica and spiced mango within the crudite assortment! The pumpkin seed dip was very good and certainly unique. Vegan liver pâte? Lol.

Grilled Corn Served Mexican-style with cotija cheese, chili powder, lime

Yum yum yum – I always order Mexican style corn when I have the option to. Cojita cheese, to me, is like the Mexican version of Parmesan. Gotta have plenty of lime on there to balance it out. Good stuff!

Martinez Kale Salad (GF) Kale, walnut, aged gouda, apple, maple mustard vinaigrette

I looooooved this salad. Look at all that beautiful aged gouda cheese. Really nice flavor combinations. It was even good the next day when I ate the leftovers!

Tostada de Pulpo Spanish octopus, hoja santa, guacamole and chile de arbol

Ribeye Taco (GF) Thinly sliced rib eye, crispy cheese, salsa de la casa

Lolo’s beverage program, created by renowned Mexico City mixologist Jose Luis Leon of Baltra Bar and Licoreria Limantour, named one of “The World’s 50 Best Bars,” showcases a refreshing selection of beer cocktails and inventive signature drinks where tequila and mezcal take center stage. Micheladas include the Tropicale with Pacifico, tequila blanco, mango, lime and a zesty Tajin rim; and the Green with Tecate, lime, chavela mix, Clamato and a chili rim.

Jose Luis Leon – Mexico City mixologist

Micheladas

Signature cocktails include the Sayulita Sunset – mezcal, blood orange, lime, agave and bitters; and the LoloColada – mezcal, pineapple vermouth, coconut water and agave. In addition to Lolo’s robust tequila and mezcal offerings, craft beer and wines by the glass and bottle are also available.

Sayulita Sunset Mezcal, blood orange, lime, agave, bitters

Mezcal Sour with pineapple and egg white

Lolo Colada Mezcal, pineapple vermouth, coconut water, agave

Mezcal is a cousin of tequila, it has a smoky essence.

Doña Lolo’s Burger – sirloin brisket blend with cheese, tomato, caramelized onions and jalapeños

Ok, I know what you are thinking: why did you order a burger at a Mexican restaurant? Well, because Lolo’s can do no wrong!

Doña Lolo’s Burger with a fried egg

Pastel de Elote Corn Cake with Crème fraîche Ice Cream

Heirloom corn cake and homemade ice cream!!!! It was like a softer version of an arepa stuffed in a jar.. SO GOOD.

The restaurant, designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, features an eclectic interior that blends Old World style with contemporary flair. Mexican textiles and art adorn the walls of the cozy main dining room. Designed for any occasion, Lolo’s ties together multiple dining areas including a full-service bar, an open dining room that seats more than 70, and a cozy alfresco patio with seating with room for 16.

I love the branding/logo, concept, food and just about everything at Lolo’s!

“comida de la playa con el toque de la abuela” (Beach food with grandma’s touch)

Last year, I announced that Banko Cantina was my favorite Mexican restaurant in South Florida. It is now safe to say that Lolo’s Surf Cantina has earned the title of my favorite Mexican restaurant in Miami and Banko is my favorite in West Palm Beach.

About Marriott Stanton South Beach

Facing Ocean Drive and backed by the Atlantic Ocean, Marriott Stanton South Beach is one of the few hotels along this famed stretch of sand with a beachfront address. Offering a chic escape in the exclusive South of Fifth district, the recently-renovated boutique hotel is designed for the trendy and free-spirited traveler looking to both explore and unwind. With unobstructed oceanfront and Miami skyline views, the Stanton is not only steps from the sand, but also situated alongside an expansive neighborhood park, as well as a short stroll from the city’s famous nightlife, shopping, dining and attractions. The Stanton is a member of the Marriott Hotels & Resorts portfolio and owned by Key International, a real estate investment and development company. For additional information please visit www.marriottstantonsouthbeach.com and follow on Twitter and Instagram: @StantonSoBe.

Follow Lolo’s Surf Cantina: Facebook: www.facebook.com/loloscantina | Twitter/Instagram: @lolosmiami

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All images appearing in this post photographed by Holli Lapes, property of TheSoFlaSage.com

Disclaimer: I received complimentary tasting at Lolos Cantina.