Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove New Pop-Up Restaurant - A Passage to India

Traveling to India has never been easier, at least in the culinary sense. The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, located at 3300 S.W. 27th Avenue, has launched a new Pop-Up restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine in a sultry, unbelievable ambiance. A Passage to India: An Authentic Indian Pop-Up Restaurant, spearheaded by Executive Chef Ramesh Kaduru, just opened on Thursday, October 3rd in their well known signature restaurant, Bizcaya.

Inspired by the foods, flavors and culture of Chennai, India, Kaduru brings a touch of his hometown to Miami through authentic spices and aromatic herbs. A part of the Ritz-Carlton family for over ten years, Kaduru has orchestrated culinary masterpieces for Indian weddings throughout several of the properties. His expertise in Indian cuisine has brought him here, to Coconut Grove, to entice Miamians with the original flavors and ingredients of the most exotic of dishes, by marrying tradition with a modern flair.

With Executive Chef Ramesh Kaduru

To our surprise and amazement, we were welcomed by a couple of regal camels who were very well behaved and more than happy to pose for our photographs. In true Ritz-Carlton style, we started off the evening with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, while we were led to our tables by gracious hostesses wearing traditional Indian garb.  

It was a Happy Hump Day!

The moment we stepped into A Passage to India, we were immediately transported into the mysterious land where time and civilizations intermix; a place where rich, vibrant hues permeate through layers of shimmering multicolor fabrics and plush pillows. Our visit was a preview to what lay ahead; an opportunity to taste the flavors the night before the official opening, and experience what this temporary restaurant would offer.

Luxurious and colorful decor

Detail in every corner

Mango Lassi

Judging from the oohs and aahs, it was evident that everyone was blown away by the decor showcasing rich blue and green drapes, majestic umbrellas hanging from the ceilings, and a large screen playing scenes from Bollywood movies. We got to experience some of the live entertainment that will be featured on selected nights and it was astounding to see the level of detail that went into the creation of this pop-up. Served on the tables were different types of traditional breads and dips to satisfy every palate and a sweet, refreshing shot of Mango Lassi.

Table Setting and Assorted Dips

Our dinner was served family style and each dish reflected its own medley of flavors and spices. Take a virtual journey with me to A Passage to India and get a glimpse of what you can expect to taste.

Dal ke Shorba, Crispy Papadam 

Roasted Red and Golden Beet Salad
Paneer Cream, Petite Greens, Citrus Vinaigrette

Saffron Basmati Rice Layered with Vegetables

Aloo Choole
Potato Chick Pea Stew

Malai Kofta Curry
Potato and Cheese Dumplings, Cashew Fondue

Mughlai Chicken
Tandoori Chicken, Butter Masala

Masala Shrimp
Goan-Style Shrimp, Do Pyaaza

Dessert
Gulab Jamun
Warm Dumplings, Rose Scented Syrup, Vanilla Ice-Cream and
Ras Malai
Cardamon, Pistachio Sorbet

Wonderful Not-To-Be-Missed Experience

Hurry! A Passage to India will only be around from October 3rd through November 3rd. It will be open from Thursday-Sunday, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm,. Reservations are strongly recommended. But that's not all. If you want to try to recreate some of these dishes at home, Chef Kaduru is offering intimate cooking demonstrations in the private dining room that will include tasty bites, appetizer and entree. For more information, visit the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove online or contact them at 305-644-4680.