El Cielo by Juan Manuel Barrientos

Best service in Miami! All the staff were very attentive and throughly explained each plate in the experience.I will say the ambiance is not what you expect from a highly rated restaurant as it does give hotel lobby vibes. However, the food was adventurous and delightful. You can clearly see the chef's history and pride in all the dishes.

El Cielo accomplishes a lot in their 19+ course menu. It's truly an experience like no other. They had me washing my hands with chocolate, eating dessert in a mist of dry ice and even licking a plate. It's whimsical and a bit wild, but there was never a dull dish. Each plate is a marvel to look at and quite thought provoking. I felt like a kid during Christmas morning waiting for each one to come. The lobster tacos were especially delicious. The servers were also very knowledgeable with excellent service and attention to details. They also explained each dish and answered any questions I had.I recommend this place to anyone who wants to experience something different and doesn't mind the hit on the wallet. Very well deserving of their Michelin star.

I think it's well worth the money for the experience alone, the place is absolutely beautiful. As someone who appreciates art, this is an exact moment where cuisine is elevated. All of the dishes are so well thought out and composed. The Tree of Life is something I wish I could eat every single day. What I loved about this place is that it feels like time is standing still. Everything is in accordance, it's all done for you. Service was quietly perfect. Compliments to the chef!

This is definitely an experience! I highly recommend "The Experience " which is a 20 course dinner. Every bite is delicious and the service is exceptional. They present and explain each course in great detail. We opted out of the wine pairing, and it was perfectly fine because the food is the main star and we were stuffed by the end. I liked the whole creativity and obviously the food preparation was on point. Some courses will surprise you and immerse you into the Colombian countryside. In my opinion, this restaurant has earned its well-deserved Michellin star. I plan to return to try another menu since they change their menu every 6 months.You definitely need a reservation because the seating is limited and the experience takes @ 3 hours.

This was my second time in El Cielo but truly my first time "experiencing" On my first visit, the restaurant had recently opened and we went for happy hour. We enjoyed it and noted a return for dinner would be nice but with the price tag it needed to be ultra special and it always got pushed to the backburner. Last night we finally went. We had a 7 PM reservation and we knew from the moment we arrived it was different. The way the staff moved and greeted and were extra-ordinarily attentive, the experience had started. While I wont go into detail as to not ruin anything, I will highlight that the service was phenomenal and so was the food. Yes, it can be gimmicky and like some people like to call it "too frilly" or "kitschy"...BUT that's okay. If the food is where it needs to be and the flavor pairings go, let the man be as creative as he wants to be; I'm here for it.We visited two of the World's 50 Best Restaurants in our travels to Peru and this experience reminded us of those restaurants and for all of the right reasons. Overall, we were very impressed and the experience was exceptional. Menu changes every 4-6 months so if you want to indulge twice a year; go for it. Make reservations. Dress to Impress...or don't; I looked kinda homely in comparison to the others. LOL The cons: There were times the music felt a little loud and we had trouble hearing the waiter story-tell the moment so some were kind of lost.This is silly of me to even bring up but because I like to document, photos, etc...Not a fan of light and glossy tables that create shadows. I love natural wood tables, dark and dynamic. That being said, I understand for cleaning purposes, light and glossy is probably the easiest....LOL (again; ignore my ridiculousness) their tables are fine!El Cielo was unique, delicious and NOT underwhelming. We were stuffed by the end and completely satisfied. While it may not be for everyone, it was perfect for us and an experience i would not mind repeating.

A Columbian Culinary Journey at El Cielo @ SLS, SOUTH BEACHEl Cielo by Juan Manuel Barrientos, located @ the SLS South Beach, just opened last Tuesday and can only be described as an extraordinary dining experience that takes you on a heavenly journey through the flavors and textures of Colombian cuisine. From the moment you step foot into the SLS, you are transported to a world where creativity, passion, and innovation reign supreme.The restaurant's sleek and modern design, combined with its warm and inviting atmosphere, creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable Columbian dining experience. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the elegant table settings to the stunning artwork adorning the walls.Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the food. Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos has truly mastered the art of blending traditional Colombian ingredients with modern techniques, resulting in a menu that is both familiar and exciting. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.The tasting menu at El Cielo is a must-try. It takes you on a culinary journey, showcasing the best of what Colombian cuisine has to offer. From the delicate and flavorful Tree of Life to the rich and indulgent meat dishes, every course is a revelation. The attention to detail in the plating is remarkable, with each dish telling a story and inviting you to explore the depths of Colombian gastronomy.The dishes were a true testament to Chef Barrientos' ability to push boundaries and create something truly extraordinary.The service at El Cielo is impeccable. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about the food they serve. They take the time to explain each dish, providing insights into the ingredients and techniques used. The sommelier is also on hand to guide you through the extensive wine list, ensuring the perfect pairing for each course.In conclusion, El Cielo by Juan Manuel Barrientos is a culinary gem that should not be missed. From the moment you enter, you are transported to a world of culinary delights that will leave you in awe. The combination of exquisite flavors, stunning presentation, and impeccable service make this restaurant a true standout. Whether you are a food enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable dining experience with your Bo, El Cielo is the place to be. Prepare to have your taste buds elevated to new heights and your senses awakened.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at El Cielo, and I must say, it is truly a spectacular restaurant. From the moment we stepped in, we were amazed by the ambiance and the warm welcome from the staff. The cocktails were of exceptional quality, crafted with precision and bursting with flavor.As we perused the menu, our skepticism quickly faded away. Each dish that arrived at our table was a work of art, both in terms of its presentation and the quality of ingredients used. It was evident that the chef's attention to detail was impeccable. Every bite was a delightful surprise, as flavors harmonized in ways we had never imagined.But it wasn't just the food that impressed us; the wait staff, especially Marty, our server, went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of amazing. Marty's knowledge of the menu and his passion for the culinary creations added an extra layer of enjoyment to our meal.I highly recommend visiting El Cielo with an open mind and a hearty appetite. Prepare to be astonished by the culinary artistry that awaits you. This restaurant has truly set the bar high, and I can confidently say it is one of the best dining experiences I have ever had.

This was an amazing fine dining experience. Service was knowledgeable and kind. The flavor of all the dishes were incredible. At first we were worried that we would still be hungry due to the portions of food, but we both left full and satisfied. We also had the cocktail pairings which were also tasted great but boozy. While this experience is pricey, it was well worth every dollar from the quality of the ingredients to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Whether you are a Miami local or visiting on vacation, El Cielo should be strongly considered.

Wow! This place is 10/10 This is not a regular restaurant, this is an experience! There is only 1 fix menu so be prepared to pay $218 (food/ per person) + $125 ( optional -wine pairings per person). Save this place for a special occasion because it will be a memorable experience.The menu is inspired in Colombian cuisine but with many unexpected flavors. Presentation is amazing and delicious! They combine all senses as part of the experience you get to taste, smell, look, and touch food in ways that will surprise you.

My wife and I got the 3 course cocktail pairing; we like doing these more affordable options at fine dining restaurants and this was both of our favorite versions of that, hands down. All 3 courses were creative in presentation and flavor and they were all delicious. It was also plenty of food, but we split a lamb plate a la carte after and I'm glad we did because it was maybe the best lamb I've had in my life. The cocktails weren't necessarily so interesting but they were all tasty and went well with the food course they were paired with. Also shout out to the bartender/server, forgot his name but he was very knowledgeable about the ingredients and techniques involved in the food. If you want good creative food without breaking the bank for a full tasting menu this is a great option.