Phuc Yea

A singularly charming Miami dining destination as notable for its critically acclaimed cuisine as well as its cheeky creative style, Phuc Yea is the restaurant and bar owned and operated by Chef Cesar Zapata and restaurateur and mixology maven Ani Meinhold. Opened in 2017, Phuc Yea’s menu showcases an alluring blend of Zapata’s Colombian culinary roots and classic training influenced by the the flavors, textures and French-inspired accents of the Vietnamese cuisine that is part of Meinhold’s heritage. At Phuc Yea, diners can find a signature style unlike anything else in the Magic City. Its combination of innovation and execution that lead the revered Michelin Guide to recently award Phuc Yea a coveted Bib-Gourmand award; high praise for a restaurant that originated as a pop-up in 2011. The cuisine at Phuc Yea is distinct: divine, bold and multi-layered. Beyond dinner service and an indulgent Sunday “hangover brunch,” bar life at Phuc Yea is not to be overlooked. Some of the craftiest craft cocktails in town are poured here, created by Meinhold (who can often be spotted behind the bar herself) and her bar team. Housed in a former hotel space, Phuc Yea is a funky space divided into three sections. The restaurant combines mid-century modern with street art, and traditional and pop Asian accents. Upon entering, one encounters a lush lobby lounge anchored by a 15' raw bar with a speakeasy-styled dining room tucked away upstairs. When the weather is right, the Lantern Garden comes alive on the back patio — the perfect spot for drinks, small plates or a multi-course meal. A private dining room is ideal for events of all kinds including private cooking classes or bar demos with Phuc Yea’s dream team ownership. The restaurant’s soundtrack encompasses both classic and contemporary sounds; it is lively and life-affirming— no smooth jazz to be found on the Phuc Yea playlist.