HUNGRY POSTED: ABIAKA

By: Sarah Dunn

If you are looking for something beyond the usual steak and sushi, we promise it’s worth your while to check out Abiaka.

Abiaka showcases an open-grill layout and views of the guitar tower at the newly renovated Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood. The recently renovated Hard Rock hotel brings a taste of Vegas to South Florida. Catch the glittering casino, a plethora of shopping options, multiple pools, a lazy river, and, of course, several restaurants to please every type of palate imaginable.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The restaurant is named after the medicine man of the Mikasuki tribe and takes its inspiration from Florida flavors. Chef Tito Vargas, who has worked with Chef Jose Andres for over fourteen years, is a Puerto Rican who blends his heritage and experience to curate his own take on Floridian cuisine with Latin flavors and ingredients.

THE MENU

The open-kitchen format provides a front-row glimpse into grilled seafood, meats, and Florida fresh produce. The menu features small plates and larger entrees, as well as a signature wine list with over one hundred labels. There is also a distinctive cocktail menu, paired to current menu items with a focus on local produce.

WHAT TO ORDER

The Hush Puppies are a tasty departure from the everyday appetizer: fried balls of doughy goodness filled with blue crab served with two dipping sauce options – Ranchera sauce if you are craving something spicy, or honey butter sauce if you are looking for something sweeter. Neither will disappoint! We also loved the Jamon Iberico, a satisfying bite of crunchy toasted bread topped with imported Spanish ham, olives, roasted garlic, and red wine jam.

How to score a table

We recommend making a reservation, especially on weekends. Don’t forget to time your dinner so that you can see the famous Guitar tower light show, which takes place each night at 6:30PM and 8:30PM.

Photos by: Abiaka