Bloody Good Marys at Norman Van Aken’s THREE

On the way to the Wynwood Women’s March, we stopped for an impromptu brunch at Norman Van Aken’s new restaurant Three.  Mr. New World Cuisine himself was at the counter of the open kitchen working on whatever celebrity chefs do, while his new chef de cuisine, Miguel Massen, was busy in the kitchen.  Miguel hails from Napa Valley’s French Laundry and Spain’s Arzak, two of the best restaurants world-wide.

Three has wonderful ambiance, not to mention food. Super comfy velvety chairs in olive and teal with cool pendant lighting give off a warm and contemporary feel.

Three represents a trio of spaces Van Aken created in the Wynwood Arcade: fine dining downstairs, No. 3 Social Rooftop Bar and Lounge upstairs and a cooking school, aptly named In the Kitchen, where you may educate your mind and palate.  Norman explained that students need not feel roped into taking a series of classes.  In his kitchen, one can opt for  a single class.

Upstairs Lounge

The Edibles

Let’s start with the amazing spicy Bloody Mary.

Bloody Good Mary

Although it’s a top secret recipe, that didn’t stop me from trying to pry it out of the staff.  It tasted fresh, lighter than the usual mixes and ever so slightly sweeter, yet plenty robust for my palate.  I usually have to add a good squeeze of lime to my bloodys, but this one was PERFECT!

We ate light...my friend ordered the Korea Town Fried Chicken and Waffles.  The white and dark meat was served with a tasty Asian spice syrup that elevated this dish from all others I’ve had elsewhere. ($21)

I had the Duck Confit Hash with Sunny Side Up Egg. Definitely a winner served with duck fat potatoes, arugula, poblanos and tomatillo salsa ($16).

We shared a strawberry shortcake served with a macaroon that was a sweet ending to a lovely brunch.

50 NW 24th St.  Miami, FL  33127     305.748.4540

If you would like to read some of my other restaurant reviews, you can check them all out within my RESTAURANT category.  I’m a Pinecrest, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove luxury real estate specialist who just happens to love blogging about beautiful homes and spectacular food.