So Much Wine, So Little Time – Lekoke Wine & Bites

So Much Wine, So Little Time – Lekoke Wine & Bites

As you drive down Calle Ocho, you’ll notice what seems to be an endless row of coffee counters, cigar shops, and shabby markets. It is the heart of the Little Havana neighborhood and it stays so true to its Cuban roots that you’ll even drive by a park filled with cigar smoking folks playing dominos. But wedged between a joyeria and a cigar shop, you’ll find Lekoke Wine & Bites.
Once I walked in, I totally forgot I was in a wine bar on Calle Ocho. Being the wine lovers that we are, my husband and I felt like we struck gold as we looked at the shelves upon shelves of wine that surrounded us. The lighting is dim and romantic with antique odds and ends filling the space. The restaurant is cozy and intimate so you won’t have to compete with the music in order to have a conversation.

 

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lekoke-wine-shelves

 

Naturally, our night started off with a lovely glass of wine accompanied by a plate of Marinated Olives to snack on.

 

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We were presented with their “Lekoke Spice” Menu which can’t be beat. It offers a three-course meal with wine pairings for just $45.

 

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Caprese Salad

 

The Caprese Salad was extremely fresh and simple – as it should be – with ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

 

Empanaditas

Empanaditas

 

Lekoke’s empanadas are not the basic savory turnovers you’ll pick up on your way home. They are homemade, flaky, and paired with chimichurri sauce. Stuffed with a mixture of chorizo, ham, and cheese, they’re hearty enough to soak up all that wine you’ll be drinking!

 

Kokito Toston

Kokito Toston

 

I love tostones but usually they are fried and greasy – not at Lekoke. The Kokito Toston is baked, but still crispy! It’s topped with savory, shredded pork that has been slow roasted for SIX HOURS and is then topped with diced tomatoes as garnish.

 

Seafood Pasta

Seafood Pasta

 

Lekoke’s Seafood Pasta totally hits the spot. They definitely don’t skimp out on the seafood. Loaded with shrimp and scallops, this creamy pasta is addicting.

 

Cuban Flan

Cuban Flan

 

No meal is complete without dessert. Ending on a sweet note, we were served a traditional Cuban flan with some ice cream that I couldn’t pass up.

Lekoke is owned by a husband and wife team that is so welcoming and attentive. It’s a place to unwind with a good bottle of wine and great company. Perfect for both date nights and a night out with friends, I’m so glad to have found such a unique spot in Miami. With such a vast collection of wines to choose from, you’ll be sure to find some new favorites at this local bar. All wines are available for purchase.

 

Cheers!

Cheers!

*Outfit details: Kensie Top (similar here)

 

Lekoke Wine & Bites | 1225 SW 8th Street Miami, FL 33135

Katrina

Blogger, social media consultant, optimist. Inspiring others to live the leisureist lifestyle trifecta: food, wine, and quality time.