Renowned chefs Carolina Sanchez and Iñaki Murua of the Michelin-star Ikaro restaurant in La Rioja, Spain are set to open their first international outpost with the debut of MOMENTO by Ikaro in Miami this summer. Situated in the vibrant heart of Downtown, the restaurant is poised to redefine the city’s dining landscape by drawing from Spain’s rich culinary heritage and Miami’s dynamic energy, creating an immersive experience where each dish is a meticulously curated work of art that evokes a sense of wonder and discovery.
Guests can expect an array of creations that celebrate the vibrant flavors of Spain and Latin America, elevated by the chefs’ innovative techniques and artistic presentation, resulting in offerings that are both technically sophisticated and deeply flavorful. Utilizing a cutting-edge wood oven and locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients the menu will feature 14 curated plates, with signature dishes such as Wood-Fired Oven Turbot, Wood-Fired Oven Lamb Shoulder, Amazonian Tiradito and Ikaro’s famed Espuma de Abatonca.
“I am filled with gratitude and excitement as our team prepares to make our international debut in one of the world’s most diverse cities,” says Carolina Sanchez, Executive Chef of MOMENTO by Ikaro. “Our goal with MOMENTO is to create a space where culinary artistry meets immersive storytelling, inviting our guests to indulge in unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression.”
Designed by CM Design Studio, MOMENTO by Ikaro draws inspiration from the vibrant culture of Miami and the timeless elegance of Spanish architecture. The expansive restaurant, divided into distinct spaces such as a lush alfresco dining terrace, a state-of-the-art open kitchen, and an intimate speakeasy cocktail lounge, immerses guests in a fluid space that evokes a friendly atmosphere, transforming MOMENTO into a contemporary and cozy social haven. The interior design features handcrafted elements and unique pieces sourced from Cuenca, including metal lamps and wooden doors, as well as a mix of vintage and contemporary art, infusing a rich sense of history and authenticity. Natural features like lush greenery and climbing vines evoke a serene garden, while a striking entrance adorned with vibrant bougainvillea sets a welcoming tone. The color palette combines deeper azure blue hues with soft, muted pastels, adding depth and intrigue. Open kitchen views connect guests to the culinary artistry, while textured plaster walls, ornate mirrors, and plush furnishings blend vintage elegance with modern comfort.
Chef Murua, hailing from Álava, honed his culinary expertise at the Santo Domingo de La Calzada Hospitality School and further developed his skills at renowned Michelin-starred restaurants including Martin Berasategui, Azurmendi, and Els Cassals. Chef Sanchez, from Cuenca, Ecuador, pursued her culinary education at the University of Cuenca and Le Cordon Bleu in Lima, gaining valuable experience at the esteemed El Celler de Can Roca. Impressively, she is the first Ecuadorian chef to receive a Michelin star. Together, they established Ikaro Restaurant in Logroño, La Rioja, which earned its first Michelin star in 2018 and was later awarded additional Repsol Suns. In 2023, they were honored as gastronomic ambassadors of La Rioja, celebrating their significant contributions to the region’s culinary excellence.
MOMENTO by Ikaro is located at 1306 N Miami Ave, Miami, Florida 33136 and will be open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5-11pm. The reservation waitlist is currently open and can be made directly on the website.
For more information, visit https://momentomiami.com or follow on Instagram @momento.miami.