Five Things To Know About El Tucán, Opening Tonight

Tonight the much-anticipated El Tucán in Brickell officially opens its doors. The dinner and show concept channels the Latin cabaret years of Tropicana in Havana. The space offers up two shows nightly from Thursday through Saturday along with drinks from theBar Lab guys and Cuban-inspired bites from Michelin-pedigreed Jean Paul Lourdes.

Owned by Michael Ridard and Mathieu Massa — who also happen to own neighboring Marion and Bâoli Miami — it is housed in a two-story space designed by New York's Robert McKinley, the guy behind NYC spots like GoldBar and the Surf Lodge.

But here are five things that you might have not known:

1) The house band is Grammy award-winning ensemble  — The 11-piece big Latin house band, who preform roughly 45-minute long shows each night, is led by Grammy award-winning composer and producer Marlow Rosado.

2) But the band isn't the only one with some talent — Even the waiters had to "audition" for the part and have talents that range in everything from singing to dancing.

3) The details are taken seriously — Staying true to the 1940s feel the space features walls have handpainted art work, imported Murano glass chandeliers, crushed velvet accents and tropical foliage throughout.

4) You better dress sharp — No flip flops and cutoffs at this bar. Dress to impress, or they will turn you down at the door.

5) A table isn't needed to have a good time — If you want to do the dinner and dancing bit, it's advised to make a reservation. Otherwise, you can still have a drink at the bar and still take in the show.

El Tucán is now open Thursday through Saturday at 1111 SW First Ave. To make a reservation call 305-­535-­0065.