New Business: Catharsis Restaurant & Lounge: Revolutionizing Calle 8 at Night

Calle 8 may have a lot of meaning and culture for Miami's Hispanic community, but it's never been the "in place" for late night dinners, but that's until several new restaurants started popping up in the area including Catharsis Restaurant & Lounge attracting a younger and chic crowd.

Catharsis means "an experience or feeling of spiritual release brought about by an intense emotional experience." The concept of the restaurant reflects exactly what it means. It's a place to unwind and destress by enjoying great food and music.

Even though it's located in a modest neighborhood and business district, Catharsis Restaurant & Lounge has a very welcoming atmosphere for those looking for a refined menu without breaking the bank and even live music. Its warm lighting, loungy atmostphere and delicious food have earned the restaurant a spot in our Great Meals Miami blog.

We started off the night with a Tuna Tartar and Spinach and Ricotta Cheese Empanada. These appetizers are just right for one person each. They may be small portions but filled with lots of flavor which is of utmost importance. The Tuna Tartar contains the perfect blend between sweet n' spicy and it's paired with mariquitas. Absolutely amazing.

When looking at the menu, we were in between several items including the Short Ribs, Pear and Gorgonzola Ravioli and Corvina. After debating what to order, we went with the Short Ribs accompanied with Carrot Puree and the Corvina. My absolute favorite was the Carrot Puree. It may sound totally bizarre, but everyone must try this! I'm personally not a fan of carrots but this puree is sweet without being overpowering and its texture is like a mousse. Simply perfect! The short ribs are slow cooked in red wine and are served in a wine reduction sauce and mushrooms, very tender, and for an unbeatable price of $18.95.

The corvina also was great! It was simple but very fresh and healthy, but for next time, we'll definitely be giving the Pear and Gorgonzola Ravioli a try.

Since portions are a normal size, you won't be feeling overstuffed after dinner. I consider this to be a very good thing, so you might have a little extra room for dessert. We chose the Guava Souffle with Vanilla Ice Cream and a touch of Rum. It's delicious and very different from your typical restaurant desserts.

But the food wasn't the only thing to enjoy at Cartharsis.

They have live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays. A small stage is located in the back of this small and cozy restaurant where you, your partner, and friends can have fun sipping on wine and dancing. It's truly the perfect combination - great food and live entertainment at a very reasonable price.

Before heading to the Brickell area, give Catharsis Restaurant and Lounge a try. You'll definitely enjoy it. We do recommend that you call in advance and reserve a table. Since there's live music, people typically stay some extra time after dinner.


Catharsis Restaurant & Lounge
1644 SW 8th St.
Miami, FL 33135
(305) 479-2746