Dine on Medianoche Lobster Rolls and Surf N’ Turf Fritas at the Now Open Ella’s Oyster Bar

A Miami-inspired oyster bar, Ella’s Oyster, officially opens on Calle Ocho tonight at 1615 SW 8th Street. The brainchild of Jordan Marano, who serves as chef, and Christian Plotczyk, who oversees operations, the duo met some 20 years ago at China Grill, and have worked at places like Rosa Mexicano and Kimpton Hotels before joining forces to open the restaurant.

The Miami-meets-New-England menu features South Florida versions of oyster bar favorites like the Surf N’ Turf Frita Cubana made with lump crabmeat, chorizo, special sauce and papas; a Little Havana Clam Bake for Two, with mussels, lobster, clams, Peruvian potato, corn, and chorizo au jus; Fried Chicken and Pancakes; Crab Croquettas with Old Bay hollandaise; Lobster rolls housed in a medianoche roll and tossed tajin mayo and a variety of freshly shucked oysters served with Cuban crackers in lieu of saltines.

The space, which was completely built out by its owners, keeps with the New England with a hint of Miami theme featuring a hand-painted Kraken mural courtesy of the guys at EvlWorld, light-wash wood grain tables, a white painted exposed brick wall, massive photo of Miami, industrial hanging lights, blue and white decor and an open-air kitchen.

Ella’s Oyster Bar is now open for dinner from 5 to 11 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and Friday and Saturday until 1 a.m. with lunch and brunch service coming soon. Call 786-332-4436 for more information. Check out the images and the opening menu below.