There’s something poetic about sipping a crisp glass of Sancerre while surrounded by centuries-old trees adorned with orchids. It’s even better when that moment is curated by Chef Thomas Keller, one of the most celebrated names in fine dining. The Garden at Bouchon, an intimate new outdoor dining space set within the historic La Palma Courtyard in Coral Gables, made its grand debut with not one, but two remarkable events—both celebrating culinary excellence, conservation, and the art of bringing people together.
Bouchon’s debut of The Garden wasn’t just a celebration of exquisite dining—it was a love letter to South Florida’s lush natural beauty. The evening was marked by an extraordinary partnership with the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Million Orchid Project, a groundbreaking initiative restoring native orchids throughout South Florida. Guests were treated to a masterfully curated menu by Chef Keller and Chef de Cuisine Garrett Rochowiak, featuring Bouchon’s signature French bistro dishes, paired with wines as elegant as the setting.
The towering trees surrounding the courtyard were delicately adorned with orchids, a symbolic nod to the restaurant’s commitment to conservation and its embrace of the local environment. Proceeds from the evening supported Fairchild’s conservation efforts, proving that great food tastes even better when served with a side of philanthropy.
The afternoon preceding the dinner saw Bouchon transformed into the epicenter of style as Neiman Marcus brought its Spring Campaign, Café Society to life. This wasn’t just another fashion luncheon—it was an immersive experience at the intersection of food, culture, and couture.
A curated guest list of tastemakers, visionaries, and fashion insiders gathered for an intimate luncheon with Chef Keller, where conversation flowed as freely as the Champagne. The event underscored how dining is more than just a meal—it’s a statement, an experience, and in this case, a celebration of artistry in every form.
The unveiling of The Garden at Bouchon was a who’s-who of Miami’s culinary and cultural elite. Notable attendees included:
Chef Thomas Keller – the mastermind behind The French Laundry, Per Se, and Bouchon
Laura Cunningham – Founder & Chief Creative Officer of the Thomas Keller Restaurant Group
Simon Kim – Founder & CEO, Gracious Hospitality Management (COTE Korean Steakhouse & COCODAQ)
Chef Shingo Akikuni – Michelin-starred Chef of SHINGO
Anastasia Koutsioukis – Co-Founder & Creative Director, Mandolin Restaurants
Jeff Lagowitz – Esteemed Restaurateur
Alfred Spellman – Co-Founder of Rakontur
Bruce Greer – President, The Board of Trustees at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Jessica Cristobal – CEO of Leading Ladies League & wife of University of Miami Football Head Coach Mario Cristobal
As guests lingered beneath the glowing chandeliers of The Garden, savoring bites of Chef Thomas Keller’s beloved Poulet Roti and profiteroles, one thing became clear: Bouchon’s newest addition isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination.
With The Garden at Bouchon, Chef Thomas Keller has done more than add another jewel to Coral Gables’ dining scene. He has created a sanctuary—where gastronomy, sustainability, and community intertwine, offering guests an experience that lingers long after the last sip of wine.