How do you balance tradition with novelty? Semilla in Miami Beach has a couple ideas.
With 12 years in the business, the French-American spot has become a fan-favorite for both old-timers and newcomers on Alton Road.
To celebrate their anniversary, they are offering both new items and seasonal dishes.
After taking charge of the kitchens of French President Jacques Chirac and the three-star Michelin restaurant Guy Savoy in Paris, Parisian native Frederic Joulin opened Semilla in Miami Beach in 2013.
The restaurant’s name–Spanish for seed–comes from Joulin’s signature culinary style, which uses traditional ingredients and recipes to prepare dishes that can change with the seasons. Keeping the Parisian seed or essence alive, he chose to design it in a “bistro” style.
“These changes also reflect the booming of Miami’s culinary landscape,” Joulin said.
The restaurant is owned and operated by Chef Joulina and his wife, Letitia.
“Year after year, we have evolved with the city in terms of its international community and the new flavors to which we are constantly introduced. In addition to our regular local clientele, we welcome guests from all over the world,” he added.
Though they have expanded into international territory, their most popular offerings are traditional French dishes prepared at the restaurant’s central open kitchen by his brother-in-law, sous chef Florian Perraudin. One is These are Escargot Persilles in bone marrow; Homemade Foie Gras Terrine with black pepper and fig jam; and a Gruyère-laden onion soup. Of the various dessert offerings are the Chocolate Mousse and Profiteroles, served with vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce.
Priding themselves in their French-American fusion, they also offer a French Wagyu Cheeseburger with Swiss cheese and tartar sauce.
Besides its eclectic food options, Semilla is known for its cozy but elevated atmosphere. The 70-seat restaurant is gently lit and features a wine cellar with over a hundred French and American varietals, which they offer along with cocktails and champagne.
“Since the beginning, we have aimed at building customer loyalty. Our guests enjoy the high quality and consistency of Semilla, and they feel like a “regular” here. Running a restaurant in Miami Beach for all this time would not be possible without the great support we receive from our clientele, and that is something that we cherish and truly appreciate.”
Semilla French Bistro & Wine Bar is located at 1330 Alton Rd., Miami Beach and is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Dining and Cooking