Next time you’re on Miracle Mile, keep an eye out for pastry box-wielding pedestrians. They are probably coming from the new Coral Gables outpost of the Key Biscayne and Doral hotspot, Patagonia, a combination Argentinean bakery, market and wine vault. And those white pastry boxes are likely filled with steaming, fresh empanadas.
The empanadas are literally the centerpiece of the eatery at 244 Miracle Mile, where all 14 varieties sit pretty under glass. Try a sampling of 12 for $18- food enough for three to four people- or buy one at a time for $1.75 each. Whichever you choose, chorizo, ham and cheese, tuna or otherwise, all stuffing types taste delicious while folded in Patagonia’s doughy, yet crisp and glossy crust. A near exception is the spinach variety, which is good but slightly bitter and watery. The standout here is the chicken soufflé which is super savory and topped with walnuts.
Patagonia’s sandwich variety is also of considerable breadth with over a dozen varieties for around $8 each. Try the Tomato Caprese.
But not every plate here is carb-laden. Go on a Friday for the Patagonia, a plate full of meat: blood sausage, steak and ribs for $10. It’s affordable, but still imbued with the flavor of a good, hot grill.
The dessert case is aimed at the entrance in some kind of marketing ploy; its offerings look fantastic and they taste pretty fantastic too. Fans of dulce de leche can close both eyes and point at random and, chances are, they’d have chosen something dulce de leche filled, coated or topped. A one-pound assortment of these goodies costs $10 and is a great contribution to a party if asked to bring dessert.
Patagonia also features a miniature market where guests who are inspired by the store’s well-prepared food can purchase meats, cheeses, breads, pastas and candies- many of which have been imported from Argentina. A number of the wines from the store’s extensive collection have also made the trip from South America to Coral Gables.
Three concepts in a tidy, attractive package, Patagonia’s newest location at Miracle Mile is worth trying.
IF YOU GO:
Rating: 3.5/4
What: Patagonia Home Made Products
Where: 244 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables
Cost: Most dishes under $10, though a la carte
Hours: Every day: 8 a.m.– 9 p.m.
Visit www.patagoniausa.net for more information.