Additional Coverage:
- I went to Bad Bunny’s high-end steakhouse in Miami. These 10 things surprised me the most. (businessinsider.com)
Bad Bunny’s Gekko: A Journalist’s Take on Miami’s Hottest Celebrity Steakhouse
Miami’s Brickell neighborhood is no stranger to glitz and glamour, but a recent visit to Gekko, the Japanese steakhouse co-owned by music sensation Bad Bunny and hospitality mogul David Grutman, offered a mix of expected luxury and surprising accessibility. Ahead of Bad Bunny’s much-lauded Super Bowl performance, a journalist explored the establishment, renowned as a celebrity magnet since its 2022 opening.
While a celebrity sighting remained elusive on a bustling Friday night, the dining experience itself provided a fascinating look into a high-end establishment with the Bad Bunny seal of approval. Here are some of the most notable observations from the visit:
Unexpected Location for a Celebrity Hotspot
Contrary to expectations of a secluded, exclusive enclave, Gekko is situated at a busy intersection, directly across from a lively mall and a gas station. The adjacent Brickell City Centre, largely populated by tourists and mainstream brands like H&M and Apple, contrasts sharply with the typical luxury retail associated with a celebrity clientele. High-end tenants within the mall are limited to a select few, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Richard Mille, and Porsche Design.
Surprisingly Simple Reservation Process
In a city known for fierce competition for dinner reservations, securing a table at Gekko proved remarkably easy. Booking just one day in advance revealed ample availability for various seating options-inside, outside, and at the chef’s counter-across nearly every 15-minute time slot from opening to close.
Intimate Interior Design
Despite Bad Bunny’s flamboyant public persona, Gekko’s interior maintains a surprisingly low-key ambiance. The central chef’s counter captivates attention, while dimly lit tables along the perimeter offer a private dining experience, fading subtly into the background.
A Fusion of Cultures, Light on Bad Bunny References
Gekko’s culinary and design elements showcase a rich blend of cultures, from its Japanese influences to more traditional American dishes, all set to a Latin-infused soundtrack. The restaurant seamlessly merges the Japanese sushi tradition, complete with a chef’s counter, with the classic high-end American steakhouse experience.
However, direct references to Bad Bunny himself were less prevalent than anticipated. While the drink menu featured a “Summer Without You” cocktail, a nod to his 2022 album “Un Verano Sin Ti,” the establishment decidedly avoids being a “Bad Bunny theme park.”
Expansive Menu Variety
The menu at Gekko is far more extensive than one might expect, offering a wide array of fish and steak-focused dishes. It includes dedicated sections for sushi, nigiri, and various wagyu beef preparations.
Appetizers range from dumplings and crispy rice to ceviche and Puerto Rican alcapurrias, alongside tacos and salads. Entrées feature fish, pork, and chicken, with a plant-based option also available.
Sides elevate beyond the basic, with offerings like baby corn, plantain fries, and lobster fried rice.
Culinary Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage
At Gekko, the artistry of the chefs is proudly displayed at the brightly lit, central chef’s counter-the room’s undeniable focal point. The chefs, masters of their craft, perform their culinary magic with precision and dedication, rather than for mere entertainment. Unlike establishments that might prioritize exaggerated presentations for social media appeal, Gekko emphasizes meticulous craftsmanship and intricate flavors over showmanship, from precise fish cuts to complex dish components.
Prices: High-End, Yet Some Surprising Value
While Gekko is undeniably a high-end dining establishment, some menu items presented surprising value compared to other Miami restaurants. A personal order included a $34 wagyu crispy rice appetizer (four pieces of fried rice squares topped with raw wagyu tartare and crispy capers), a $19 gold-topped otoro nigiri, and a $17 surf-and-turf nigiri featuring torched wagyu and lobster. The total bill, including drinks and dessert, came to $164 for six bites of food, plus tax and tip.
Despite the limited quantity of food, the average appetizer price hovers around $26, with entrées starting at $34. While not “affordable,” these prices are notably competitive within the high-end dining scene, allowing for a taste of Gekko’s signature plates without an exorbitant outlay.
Occasional Flashes of Opulence
Conversely, some menu items appear designed for those seeking to indulge in lavish spending. The “wagyu experience,” a 4-ounce dish, is priced at a staggering $598 before tax and tip, and an omakase platter commands $350. Even individual nigiri pieces adorned with gold leaf or caviar are priced at double their simpler, fish-only counterparts.
Substance Over Style: Impressive Cuisine
Beyond the celebrity connection and Instagrammable elements, Gekko’s food truly shines. Every dish sampled was masterfully crafted, boasting delicious layers of flavor. Highlights included the crispy capers on the wagyu crispy rice and the smoky torched wagyu on the surf and turf nigiri.
The Dessert: A Memorable Finale
The miso dulcey lava cake, priced at a seemingly reasonable $24 for a shareable portion, emerged as the undisputed star of the meal. Described as decadent, rich, and truly unique, the dessert combined silky ice cream, crispy cake edges, and the subtle umami of miso, creating an unforgettable flavor profile ideal for sharing.