I have been to Vinya Table three times now. Each time, it’s been a last-minute decision. Circumstance that we’re in Coral Gables and looking for something that has different options for all taste buds. And every time I have been so happy with the decision to stop in, that it’s time to write it down. Maybe it’s the wine selection, maybe it’s the outdoor option for Bailey, maybe it’s the friendly staff, or maybe it’s all of the above and, of course, some seriously delicious plates.
Starting with the differentiator: Retail wine prices and a restaurant experience are part of Vinya Table’s promise. As you can see from the shelves above, the offering is plentiful. “Pick any bottle of wine from our shelves and pay a small corkage fee. Say goodbye to those high restaurant mark-ups, and enjoy a world of wine, at your fingertips.” Now of course, you’re not leaving without spending some pretty pennies for your bottle, appetizer, meal, and a dessert, but the idea of an accessible wine club is welcome in Miami! Especially somewhere where getting a reservation is not mission impossible.
I’ve had their Pinot Noir and all-day white, and I can confidently say you’ll find something you like if you’re a wine lover. As for the food, if I’ve gone to one place in an area that has plenty of restaurants to try three times, you know I love it too. This time, we started with Shrimp Ceviche.
Leche de tigre and ají amarillo served with tostones for dipping. Shrimp ceviche is a popular dish in Latin American cuisine, and one that I have just gotten to know as we explore the Miami food scene. I’ve loved it and I’ve hated it. Here, I am happy to say I loved it (or perhaps it just took some getting used to from my previous dislike).
It consists of raw shrimp marinated in leche de tigre, a citrus-based marinade often used in Peruvian ceviche, known for its bright, zesty flavor and invigorating freshness. Leche de tigre is typically made from lime juice, fish stock, garlic, cilantro, and a hint of ginger, providing a flavorful base that “cooks” the shrimp and imparts a lively, tangy taste.
Complementing this is ají amarillo, a Peruvian yellow chili pepper that adds a unique layer of heat and a slightly fruity flavor. Ají amarillo gives the ceviche a gentle spice and a vibrant golden hue, balancing the tartness of the citrus with a mellow warmth. All of this wrapping the tiny shrimp and in a bowl that’s small but packed with all sorts of tastes. Super interesting and delicious.
The tostones are perfect for scooping up the ceviche, adding a satisfying, savory element to every bite. At just $8 on the Happy Hour menu, this was a perfect way to start the meal.
Moving on to my standard “Girl Lunch” of salad and a side of fries. This never disappoints; a little bit of health with a guilty pleasure and an overall filling meal. Here, we have the Giant Green Market Salad. Arugula, green apple, shaved Brussels sprouts, cucumber, spinach, celery, and an avocado yogurt dressing. No add-on meats for me, this sounded perfectly protein-ed as is.
This salad is a great choice for those seeking a wholesome, refreshing dish that feels both light and satisfying.
At its base, the salad features arugula and spinach — two leafy greens that provide a peppery, slightly nutty flavor balanced with a mild, tender sweetness. The shaved Brussels sprouts add more earthiness, creating a ting of bitterness. For such a wholesome salad, that’s what you expect. I don’t typically enjoy these flavors but to be fair, it’s what’s right with what was ordered.
The addition of green apple slices brings a refreshing, tart sweetness that contrasts with this earthiness, and is much needed. Then, cucumber adds a crisp, hydrating element, while celery contributes a light, crunchy texture. A creamy avocado yogurt dressing ties all the ingredients together. The dressing, made from ripe avocado blended with yogurt, adds a rich, velvety texture and smooth finish, enhancing the salad without overpowering the natural freshness of the greens.
While I love a colorful plate typically, all of this greenery in one salad is so delightful. Its brightness brings you back to life, a beautiful medley of crisp, nutrient-rich ingredients. At $16, less than a Sweet Green to-go salad, it sounds and tastes like a good deal to me.
The side of fries, meh. Pretty unnecessary here as they were nothing special. I like a rustic fry or something covered in salt, I’m obsessed when it’s made with sweet potatoes. But prepared like this, almost reminding me of frozen fries you can make at home in the oven, I would have saved the calories for something else. I really shouldn’t complain too much about fries though, they’re fries after all!
Something to consider saving your calories for: the Crispy Truffle Chicken sandwich. Served on a slice of sourdough bread, this dish features crispy chicken paired with caramelized onions, fresh tomato, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of truffle. An indulgent open-faced sandwich, not for the faint on heart.
It’s super hearty, tasty, and full of different flavors and textures in its own way.
The star, the chicken, may look like a battered and fried overload, but don’t be fooled. It’s juicy, yummy, and a filling feast if eaten solo even. But add the caramelized onions for a sweet, mellow depth and the tang of the tomatoes and you have something special. Then, the burrata provides a creamy, luxurious texture that complements the crispy elements of the dish. And I am loving the use of a burrata as cheese, as opposed to some generic slice. Once cut into, it beautifully spills over the sandwich with its deliciousness.
The use of sourdough bread adds a slight chewiness but remains sturdy, making it a great base for the sandwich. (My favorite sandwich bread has always been homemade ciabatta if you’re looking for something great to try). Pesto adds a fresh, herbal note that ties all the flavors together. Pair with a crisp white wine and you have a delicious afternoon on the patio with a beauty:
Part wine bar, part restaurant, Vinya Table is a consistent winner in my book. It’s not pretentious like some of the spots on Miracle Mile, but not so casual that you don’t feel like you’re treating yourself just a bit. Grab one of their all-day sipping wines, or take a gamble with the Dealer’s Choice beer selection, and enjoy what’s sure to be a good meal!
