This bar in Little River, Miami, never ceases to amaze with its cocktails of unexpected flavors inspired by fantastic creatures.
Just days after the Miami New Times declared it home to the “Best Cocktails” of 2024, the prestigious magazine Bon Appétit includes it on its list of the 11 best new bars in the United States.
Bar Kaiju in Little River, Miami, never ceases to amaze. Among hundreds of bar openings so far this year (we’re barely in July!), Bar Kaiju has captivated critics. Bon Appétit writer Kate Kassin was as impressed as the New Times editorial team by the bar’s unique inspiration: Japanese anime.
“Inspired by its owner’s obsession, Derek Stilmann, with strange Japanese creatures (kaiju in Japanese), the bar leans towards the fantastic,” writes Kassin. “From anime posters and monster movie projections on the walls to the 15 drinks inspired by these beings, printed on a menu that simulates trading cards.”
Kassin also highlights the originality of the cocktails, as bold as their names. “Mechagodzilla, nemesis of a famous homonymous monster, takes shape here as a Japanese whiskey highball with cherry blossom vermouth.”
For its part, Rodan, a giant fire demon, materializes into a margarita with pepper and a final touch of a spicy lollipop. Beyond the occasional aroma of pizza or jerk chicken from the market below, this bar will transport you to a new mystical world,” he says.
Indeed, Bar Kaiju offers more than 15 monster-inspired cocktails, printed on menus that look like trading cards. Each card includes information about the creature, its characteristics, and how it translates into an elegantly balanced cocktail. The creations are creative, fun, and with unexpected flavor combinations.
Last weekend, the news of the bar’s inclusion on Bon Appétit’s list sparked excitement among regulars and fans. The bar shared it on its Instagram account on Friday, June 28, expressing its honor to be among incredible establishments.
“Our team at Bar Kaiju has poured a lot of love and creativity into what we do,” the post says. “We’re always excited to show our geek side through our monster-inspired atmosphere and our own card game/menu. It’s been an absolute pleasure serving our community and colleagues with fun, creative, and delicious drinks.”
The post ends by thanking everyone who has supported them and been part of their journey. “We’re thrilled to continue this monstrous adventure with you!” they conclude.
Since its opening in early 2023, Bar Kaiju has garnered numerous accolades, being named one of the best new bars in the United States by Esquire earlier this year.
Bar Kaiju is located at 8300 NE Second Ave., Miami, in the Citadel food hall. Hours are Thursday to Saturday from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am and Wednesday and Sunday from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am.
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