Lion & The Rambler officially opened its doors in early-June 2022. The arrival of the modern American restaurant is the culmination of a lifelong dream of Chef/Owner Michael Bolen, who designed Lion & The Rambler to be a bastion for technique-driven, detail-oriented cuisine infused with whimsy and served in a cool, laidback space. And indeed it is just that, having opened in the former Eating House space at 804 Ponce de Leon Boulevard and quickly wowing diners with its culinary pyrotechnics. And though initially conceptualized as a tasting-menu-centric eatery, Bolen has expanded his offerings and, by popular demand, launched an A La Carte Menu. Rolling out officially on Friday, June 24, 2022 the expansive new menu gives guests an opportunity to curate their own Lion & The Rambler experience. A playful and provocative six-course tasting menu offered at $85 per person is perfect for those seeking the ultimate Lion & Rambler gastronomic adventure. Inspired by the chef’s life in food, fueled by South Florida’s local bounty and executed with masterful technique, seasonality and a sense of play is the name of the game at this eclectic eatery.
“Coral Gables is a wonderful, tight knit community and I am so thrilled to have opened a family-friendly restaurant here,” says Bolen, who did most of his culinary training at both Sel de la Terre and L'Espalier in Boston and, most recently, at Mister A's in San Diego. “In the short amount of time I’ve been open I have met so many amazing people and already seen a number of folks coming back more than once. And though this might be my first time as an owner/operator I know enough to know that listening to your customers is key.” To that end, the addition of the a la carte menu. “So many of the most passionate and engaged guests we’ve had told me how much they enjoyed the restaurant and did like a tasting menu experience, but that having the option of ordering what they wanted off the menu made such a difference to them. It turned a special occasion dinner spot into an ‘any night of the week’ spot.”
Beyond the nightly-changing tasting menu offering, guests now have the flexibility to order from an expansive menu of tasting menu favorites as well as special creations in a number of sizes; perfect for mixing and matching, sharing or solo dining. Notable new selections sure to wow include Spiced Lamb Ribs; Golden Tilefish served with white asparagus and a Vin Jaune sauce; Foie Gras Torchon with oats and pickled peach and Crispy Sweet Potato with aioli and pickled red onion. Tasting menu favorites now offered a la carte in expanded serving sizes include the must-try Boniato Pelmeni (think of a Polish wonton stuffed with boniato puree) and New York Strip served with a charred onion sauce and tempura watercress. To drink, guests can indulge in an a la carte selection of low-proof, rare and imported spirits including beer, sake, wine and house-made kombucha.
Designed by Miami interiors guru, Paula Lemme, the intimate, 42-seat restaurant located in the former Eating House space, has been transformed into a sultry, sophisticated dining lair. Upon entering through the double doors, guests are greeted by the familiar sounds of old school hip hop, classic rock anthems and 80’s dance music. Hand-painted lion frescos by Canadian muralist, Derkz, adorn the walls exuding a sense of eccentricity. Ambient lighting and dark, moody tones are paired with warm woods, creating a polished, inviting atmosphere. A wall lined with cozy banquettes and walnut tabletops provide ample indoor seating for guests. Plateware is all uniquely handcrafted by independent ceramists hailing from New York City and Los Angeles while the pink-and-purple cutlery is French-imported.
Lion & The Rambler is located at 804 Ponce de Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables, FL. Reservations are available via Resy. Current hours of operation are Wednesday -- Sunday from 5:30PM - 10:00PM. Happy Hour available everyday from 5:30PM - 7:30PM with special pricing on wine and drinks. For additional information please visit www.lionandtherambler.com; Telephone: (305) 603-7612.
Follow Lion & The Rambler on social media: @lionandtherambler.
Images and interviews are available upon request.
Media Contacts:
Larry Carrino | Gabriella Bastinelli
Brustman Carrino Public Relations
bcpr@brustmancarrinopr.com
(305) 573-0658