© The Drexel, photo by Katie June Burton

Nestled in the heart of Miami Beach, The Drexel is a culinary gem effortlessly combining the charm of a bygone era with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

As you step into a sophisticated yet quaint establishment within Miami Beach’s famed Spanish-inspired Española Way, you are immediately transported to coastal towns that dot shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The Drexel captures an essence of these picturesque locales, offering a menu that celebrates simplicity and elevates your dining experience to new heights.

Under the guidance of culinary mastermind Chef Nano Crespo, The Drexel emerges as a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for cooking. Additionally, The Drexel’s manager, Tamara Magalhaes, collaborated with the founders of Mandolin to bring this exceptional establishment to life.

© The Drexel, Chef Nano Crespo

With a focus on rustic, straight-forward flavors, Chef Crespo has crafted a menu that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies souls. Drawing inspiration from a charcoal grill and wood oven, each dish showcases clean locally sourced ingredients.

Millennial was privileged to spend an evening with Chef Crespo enjoying his acclaimed menu and traversing the globe one bite at a time.

Masterful Libations & Decadent Creations

We began our evening with the Greek Goddess cocktail, a harmonious blend of Sipsmith gin, jasmine tea, lavender, rosemary, juniper, and sparkling wine. This refreshing libation set the tone for what was to come—a symphony of flavors that would transport us to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean- from Spain to Israel.

© The Drexel, Tuna Carpaccio

Each appetizer arrived as a work of art. The local tuna carpaccio, delicately sliced and adorned with an herb salad and caper vinaigrette, was a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the freshest seafood. 

The baked kefolagraviera with tomato compote showcased the harmony between traditional Greek flavors and modern techniques, resulting in a dish that was both comforting and exciting. 

The wood-roasted eggplant pesto, provided a nice contrast between creamy and bright flavors as the mint and lemon gave it nice robustness. And let us not forget the freshly baked bread, accompanied by a tarragon-infused butter that elevated the simplest of pleasures to new heights and provided that much needed dip for what came next!

© The Drexel, Wood Roasted Eggplant

For the main course, we savored the handmade pappardelle, lovingly crafted in-house and served with Italian sausage in a rich porcini mushroom cream sauce. Each bite was a revelation, with the pasta perfectly cooked and the flavors melding together in a symphony of indulgence.

The crispy flat-iron organic chicken, delicately seasoned with Espelette pepper and complemented by a velvety maître d’butter, was a testament to Chef Crespo’s skill in creating dishes that are simultaneously comforting and refined.

To accompany our main course, we indulged in the heirloom tomato avocado salad, a vibrant medley of flavors and textures that celebrated the bountiful produce of the region. The addition of hearts of palm and kalamata olives added a touch of sophistication to this refreshing dish. 

The grilled asparagus, dressed in a citrus vinaigrette and adorned with olive tapenade, provided the perfect balance of acidity and earthiness, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to highlighting the natural flavors of each ingredient.

Marrying Tradition with Innovation

As our culinary journey came to an end with a simple but picture perfect Affogato, we couldn’t help but be in awe of The Drexel’s ability to marry new recipes with old techniques. The restaurant pays homage to the timeless traditions of Mediterranean cuisine while infusing a modern twist. Each dish showcased the skill and dedication of the kitchen team, who presented a menu that is both familiar and exciting.

© The Drexel, Dining Room, photo by Katie June Burton

Final Thoughts On The Drexel

Dining is an experience that goes beyond the mere act of nourishment. It is a celebration of flavors, a journey through time and taste that leaves you with a profound appreciation for the culinary arts. 

Whether you’re a local seeking a taste of the Mediterranean or a visitor looking for a truly unforgettable dining experience, The Drexel is a destination that should not be missed. Immerse yourself in the ambiance, savor the flavors, and allow yourself to be transported to a time when simplicity and craftsmanship reigned supreme.