Tantra
At Española Way
Cuisines: Seafood, Asian, Thai, European, Arabic
About
Marrakech meets Miami Beach in this truly original, exotic outpost devoted to the ancient Indian tantric philosophy of tempting the senses with all things pleasurable. While Tantra used to be on the South Beach "it" list, it has faded off the radar somewhat in terms of seeing and being seen with the exception of a weekly Monday night bacchanal that goes into the wee hours. But for a meal, Tantra shouldn't be ignored even though the star chefs have left for greener pastures. Begin with your surroundings: a sultry interior of soft grass (yes, it's real; they resod weekly) and starry lights overhead. In the front room by the bar, there are low-lying couches and pillow-lined booths bolstered by drapes that can be closed for privacy. Belly dancers mix with cocktail waitresses singing the praises of Tantra's special aphrodisiac cocktails and offering you a puff of Turkish tobacco from the communal hookah pipe (they insist it's clean, but I'd be wary). A private VIP room off to the side features a hammock and a peaceful spiritual soundtrack. Tantra serves a combination of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Indian dishes that really are divine. Consider the Tantra Love Apple (a ripe tomato layered with Laura Chenel goat cheese and basil oil, garnished with pomegranate seeds) or perhaps the truffle-stuffed organic roast chicken. On the negative side, prices are obscene. Don't come to Tantra looking for a serene vibe to match the setting and menu. Tantra practically turns into a nightclub after dinner, attracting a crowd of party types who can barely afford to pay their rent, never mind a tab here. Fans of Top Chef Miami take note: Sandee Birdsong is the executive chef here!
