- Location: 36 NE 1st St, Miami, FL 33132
- Cuisine: Authentic Israeli and Mediterranean
- Price Range: $$ – Moderate
- Ambiance: Modern, Cozy, and Vibrant
“Eye of the Tiger” (First Impressions)
Reservations/Wait Time: Motek Miami Beach, a standout among Israeli restaurants, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Making a reservation is recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid a lengthy wait. If you drop by without a reservation, be prepared for a short wait, especially during peak hours.
Initial Thoughts: Nestled in downtown Miami, Motek Cafe greets you with an inviting and trendy atmosphere. The outdoor seating offers a front-row seat to Miami’s bustling streets, while the interior provides a cozy, modern vibe. From the moment you step in, you’re hit with the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared Israeli food wafting through the air.
“Hungry Like the Wolf” (The Food)
Signature Dishes: Motek’s menu is packed with traditional and flavorful Mediterranean dishes. Their variety of mezze and mains make them a go-to spot for anyone looking for the best Israeli food or kosher food in Miami (although Motek isn’t certified kosher).
- Baba Ganoush: Creamy and smoky eggplant dip with a drizzle of olive oil, served with warm pita bread. Rating: 8/10
- Shakshuka: A flavorful dish of poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce (but not too spicy), perfect for brunch. Served with fresh baked Challah bread. Rating: 9/10
- Labneh Za’atar: Creamy strained yogurt topped with aromatic za’atar (sumac) spices. A light, tangy delight served with fresh pita bread for dipping. Rating: 8.5/10
- Arayes Burger: An out-of-this-world Lebanese delicacy in which mini beef and lamb patties are grilled into a pita and served with 3 sauces. It won the People’s Choice Award for Best Burger at the 2022 South Beach Food & Wine Festival, and I can see why. Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor. Rating: 9.5/10
- Falafel Plate: Crispy falafel served with hummus and fresh veggies—a staple for fans of Mediterranean food in Miami Beach. Rating: 9/10
- Shawarma Plate: Tender and flavorful chicken shawarma, served with a side of Israeli salad and pita. Easily some of the best shawarma in Miami. Rating: 10/10
Portion Size: Motek serves generous portions, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. From the mezze plates to the hearty shawarma, you won’t leave hungry in this Jewish restaurant.
“Every Breath You Take” (The Service)
Staff Attitude: The staff at Motek Miami are friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to assist. They’re more than happy to offer recommendations or explain the various dishes, making the experience enjoyable for both new and returning customers.
Service Speed: Despite the bustling environment, service is prompt and efficient. You won’t wait long for your food, even during busy hours.
Special Requests: Motek caters well to dietary restrictions, offering many vegetarian and vegan options. If you’re looking for a place with kosher food, Miami style, they’re flexible with accommodating different needs, even though they aren’t strictly kosher.
“Take On Me” (Ambiance & Atmosphere)
Decor: Motek has a modern, minimalist design with Mediterranean influences. Inside, the sleek décor and soft lighting create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The outdoor seating, with a touch of greenery, offers a relaxed space to enjoy Middle Eastern food Miami style.
Noise Level: It can get lively, especially during peak hours, but the noise adds to the café’s bustling, vibrant atmosphere.
Crowd: Motek attracts a diverse crowd, from business professionals on lunch breaks to families enjoying a leisurely meal. It’s a true representation of Miami’s multicultural vibe.
A Dessert Worth Traveling For
Motek’s halva silan dessert is something that must be experienced. Take vanilla ice cream, put halva (a flaky Middle Eastern confection made of tahini and honey) on top with candied pecans, and a nice drizzle of silan (date syrup). This wet/dry combination of textures and flavors left me speechless. Although there are several other selections on the menu, I refuse to eat any other dessert here.
“She Works Hard for the Money” (Price & Value)
Overall Cost: Moderately priced, Motek offers excellent value for the quality and authenticity of its dishes. You get a great bang for your buck, considering the generous portions and flavorful meals.
Worth It?: Absolutely. Whether you’re looking for the best shawarma Miami has to offer or seeking out kosher restaurants in Miami Florida, Motek’s authentic flavors and quality make it worth every penny.
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” (Final Verdict)
Overall Rating: 9/10
Best For:
- Fans of Israeli lunch and Mediterranean food
- Anyone seeking an authentic yet casual dining experience in Miami
- Lovers of Middle Eastern food Miami Beach style
Would I Return?: Yes! With its warm atmosphere, delicious food, and central location, Motek is a gem in the Miami restaurant scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a big family dinner or a leisurely Israeli breakfast, Motek offers an exceptional dining experience with authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Motek Cafe is a perfect destination for those craving authentic Israeli food in the heart of Miami. Whether it’s for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Motek delivers an exceptional dining experience with its blend of Mediterranean flavors and cozy ambiance.
Where to find Motek Café
36 NE 1st Street
Miami, FL 33132
(786) 953-7689
https://motekcafe.com/
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