Little Havana just got a taste of Michelin excellence. Bistro 8, the latest endeavor by Shōwa Hospitality, officially opened its doors today, January 10, 2024, at 2069 SW 8th Street. Under the visionary leadership of acclaimed Chef Pancho Ibáñez, formerly of Pujol—Mexico City’s two-Michelin-starred culinary gem—this new hotspot seamlessly blends Mexican tradition with French sophistication.

Chef Pancho Ibáñez, hailing from Xalapa, Veracruz, brings over 30 years of culinary expertise to the helm of Bistro 8. Known for his work at global institutions like Pujol and collaborations with industry giants such as Iberostar and Aeromexico, Ibáñez is redefining the dining experience with the ethos of “simple pero no sencillo” (simple but not easy).

Each dish on the menu tells a story, with offerings like:

• Chuletas de Cordero: Lamb chops with mashed potatoes, fermented lemon, chile morita jus, and carrots.

• Cangrejo: A luxurious creation of King crab, brioche, and ikura.

• Pollito en Escabeche: Roasted chicken in escabeche for a bold yet comforting flavor profile.

• Ensalada de Butterhead: A refreshing mix of butterhead lettuce, green beans, green peas, roasted almonds, and Parmigiano.

No experience at Bistro 8 is complete without their curated cocktail menu. Featuring agave-forward spirits and grain-based blends, the bar program echoes the bold, clean flavors of the kitchen with a playful sophistication.

Stepping into Bistro 8 feels like entering a sanctuary of understated luxury. Designed by Minoru Oyamatsu of Tokyo’s celebrated Oyamatsu Design Studio Inc., the space combines warm hues with refined textures, striking the perfect balance between Mexican vibrancy and French bistro elegance.

The sensory experience extends beyond sight. A custom sound system by Kazunori Taguchi, featuring speakers crafted from Arctic birch trees aged 70–160 years, enhances the ambiance with soundwaves described as “ripples on a still lake.”

As the third Miami concept from Shōwa Hospitality—following the critically acclaimed Hiden and crowd-favorite The Taco Stand—Bistro 8 was thoughtfully placed in Little Havana. The neighborhood's cultural diversity mirrors the restaurant’s global inspiration, creating a synergy that celebrates both local heritage and international sophistication.

Founded by Julian Hakim and Aram Baloyan, Shōwa Hospitality is a trailblazer in the culinary world, with concepts spanning from Miami to Las Vegas. Known for innovative design, exceptional service, and community engagement, the group continuously pushes boundaries while honoring local culture.