Las' Lap, a Caribbean-inspired spot to see and be seen in Miami
Las' Lap, less than a year old and run by chef Kwame Onwuachi, is a Miami bar specializing in rum cocktails.
Although a New York-based restaurant less than a year old, Las' Lap already has a distinctly Miami feel. Run by celebrity chef Kwame Onwuachi, it's the kind of place where people go to see and be seen. Its location near Sunset Harbour and the Miami City Ballet is less pretentious than your typical trendy spot in South Beach.
The menu blends Caribbean, Afro-Latin, and global influences, with a special focus on rum. The ambiance is undeniably sensual: dim lighting, striking art, and Tupac music blasting. It's a destination restaurant where time, and perhaps money too, seem like an illusion, but the bold and spicy food brings you back to reality.
The fried eggplant arrives slightly crispy, with a subtle spiciness that intensifies. It's served with tangy honey and a bowl of tzatziki, and the portions are perfect for sharing. The pollo saltado is a Caribbean take on the Peruvian classic: crispy, juicy chicken tossed with pickled onions, avocado, and a curry reduction, served with coconut rice.
Signature cocktails cost $20 each, and many feature rum, reflecting the bar's Caribbean heritage. The classic Las' Lap Rum Punch is made with three rums: Ten to One, Wray & Nephew, and an 8-year-old Appleton Estate, giving a unique, alcoholic twist to a traditionally sweet and fruity cocktail.
The place has an island vibe, tropical and relaxed, with a leisurely pace. The service, however, is perhaps a bit too relaxed: the martinis weren't quite right, there was a long wait, and a couple of mistakes were made with the order. Even so, people-watching is entertaining, and the food is excellent.
To get the best table, it's best to book a table on the terrace at sunset and enjoy your meal by the canal during the golden hour.