The emblematic crab restaurant opens its first location outside of Ecuador
La Pata Gorda, a beloved chain of seafood restaurants hailing from Ecuador, recently opened its inaugural location outside of Ecuador, nestled in the bustling streets of Coral Gables, Miami. Having opened its doors to the public on April 15 to a sold out first weekend in business, La Pata Gorda brings with it a legacy of culinary excellence, inviting Miami locals and visitors alike to embark on a gastronomic journey filled with the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of Ecuador.
La Pata Gorda, whose name translates to “The Fat Leg,” is inspired by an Ecuadorian tradition where diners vie for the coveted crab leg. Symbolizing a cultural phenomenon where patrons fight for the fattest, most succulent crab leg, La Pata Gorda embodies the spirit of camaraderie and competition, creating an unforgettable dining experience for all who visit.
“At La Pata Gorda, we believe that food is a celebration of culture, tradition, and community,” says Josué Sánchez, native of Guayaquil and owner of La Pata Gorda. “With our arrival in Miami, we are excited to share the flavors and stories of Ecuador with a new audience, inviting them to experience the warmth and vibrancy of our cuisine, complete with excellent service and a relaxing ambiance.”
At the heart of La Pata Gorda’s menu are its extensive selection of 40 signature dishes, each crafted with care and passion using the finest ingredients sourced directly from Ecuador. From succulent carapacho (crab) croquettes, featuring Ecuadorian mangrove crab meat with sweet and spicy plantain, served with red pepper aioli for $17; to tantalizing ceviches, with options like jipijapa LPG, shrimp, or pesca blanca, all ranging from $22 to $26; to our traditional chopsué, which includes crab meat served with white rice or cocolon, fried plantains, our house special sauce and criolla sauce for $27, every dish tells a story — a reflection of Ecuador’s diverse culinary landscape.
In addition to its delectable offerings, La Pata Gorda offers guests a variety of unique dining experiences, from interactive seafood towers to immersive crab-hammering sessions, where diners can indulge in the thrill of cracking and savoring fresh crab with their hands.
Complementing the culinary experience is the vibrant soundscape of Latin and lounge beats, setting the perfect backdrop for weekend gatherings and late-night escapades. With live DJ performances on select dates, La Pata Gorda promises an unforgettable dining experience infused with rhythm and flavor.
La Pata Gorda invites Miami residents and visitors to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other, where every dish tells a story and every moment is infused with the warmth and hospitality. Join at 232 Miracle Mile – Coral Gables, and discover the flavors of Ecuador at La Pata Gorda. (Indoor and outdoor seating).
For more information, visit the La Pata Gorda website at LaPataGorda.com, call (786) 963-8171, or follow on Instagram at @LaPataGordaUs.
Photo credit: La Pata Gorda – Coral Gables