When Bar Fideo opens at 8291 NE Second Avenue in Miami’s Little River neighborhood this fall, Ivan Barros and Caroline Strauss want it to be more than just a lounge.
The life and business partners have made a home in the neighborhood, and are working to forge something that’s both personal and comfortable. “We are building the restaurant ourselves, and we want people to know this is our own blood, sweat, and tears,” says Strauss.
Strauss, who owns Magie Wine Bar with Barros, tells What Now Miami that the lounge is designed for locals by locals. “Bar Fideo is extremely community driven.”
To cater to their neighbors, Bar Fideo will offer well priced food and drink in a relaxed, comfortable setting. The restaurant, named for the thin noodles the two hospitality veterans grew up eating, with chef Barros creating a menu of rustic Spanish tapas meant for sharing — with most under the $15 mark. Many tapa items will be sold by the piece, encouraging guests to explore through the menu and create their own bespoke meal or snack. The bar will offer wine, vermouth cocktails, sangrias on tap, and what Strauss likes to call “crispy” Spanish beers that are perfect for sipping on sultry Miami evenings. Prices for these libations will start at a very neighborly four bucks for a half pint.
“Bar Fideo is about keeping things honest, simple food done well, a lively atmosphere, and a space that feels good whether you stay for one plate or the whole night,” says chef Barros.
Strauss wants Bar Fideo to be a place for people to just kick back and relax — like a second home. “Walk in, have a snack, read a book. We want to make everyone feel comfortable.”
For Strauss and Barros, that’s not just idle chitchat — the couple have been creating warm spaces for people to enjoy food and drink for years. Barros has created dishes in some of Miami’s best kitchens including Scarpetta, Macchialina, and Amara at Paraiso. Strauss has been a driving force behind some of Miami’s favorite spots including Macchialina, Makato, The Anderson, and The Citadel. Together, they run Magie — a space that serves as both wine bar and community hub.
In anticipation of the early fall opening of Bar Fideo, Strauss and Barros are planning a series of pop-ups to introduce Fideo to the neighborhood. Follow @bar.fideo to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
