House of Food Porn
Reviews
Name: Rick Karlin
Restaurant Pick: Cucina Caruso
Reviewed: House of Food Porn
I was a bit wary as we drove through the neighborhood and pulled up in front of the restaurant. We drove down to Miami from Fort Lauderdale and it was raining when we left so we allowed plenty of time so we wouldn’t be late. You buy tickets for the event as you would theater and our “show” was starting at 6 p.m. Of course, traffic ended up very light and we arrived almost 45 minutes early. I rang the bell on the door to find out where to park (behind the building, not in the lot next door) So we drove around the area and discovered the hipster area, MiMo, nearby. We got back at about ten minutes before the hour and were warmly greeted by Nicky and shown to our seats. It was about half an hour until the last couple at our seating arrived, but Nicky kept the atmosphere warm and friendly, like a party at someone’s house until we began dinner service. It truly was dinner and a show as Frank explained his food philosophy and details about each dish. Dinner ended with a rich cocoa cake (similar to a sacher torte) topped with vanilla ice cream and a guava sauce. My husband doesn’t like chocolate, so I got to eat all the cake and he ate the ice cream and guava (two of his favorite things).
Name: Carmen Matos
Restaurant Pick: Hours of Food Porn
Reviewed: House of Food Porn
We went to dinner on Sunday at 6pm with two other couples. One of the couples is in their 30s and the other in their late 60s and they both walked out saying this was one of the best experiences they have had in Miami. When we first arrived, Nicky welcomed us warmly and had beautiful place cards for each person coming. The restaurant is a cozy 14-person U-shaped space where you sit in tall chairs and enjoy the experience. In the dining spot, you have a straight look into the kitchen and can observe Frank finishing his dishes throughout the evening. Nicky starts you off with some cool water with herbs and slices of citrus in it (the blend changes) and then pours you a glass of wine (you can also bring your own wine and there is no corkage fee). You are then given an overview of the evening and told this is a sensual food experience so you will be eating with your hands. As a next step you receive very warm towels to clean your hands and then Chef Frank comes out front and welcomes you. He shares a bit of his story. He learned to cook at home with his mom. He loved sushi but his mom would not try it and that started his journey. He took her Cuban food and turned it into a roll and got her to try it. She loved the compact gems of flavor, but she could not say sushi, so she called it, shushi. He started making the flavor bombs for his friends and things progressed. He got into social media and got a call to cater and he said yes. Though he had no experience, he has been doing it since then for the love of food. There are no real “house rules” you can walk to where Chef is and take pictures, ask any questions you have real time, and make new friends. We have taken business partners there, family and friends and all have had a great experience. You pay ahead of going there so it is great to not worry about bill, tip and etc. at the end. Particularly good when you want to host friends. The one thing that may be challenging is the parking area. We find it easier to Uber but there is parking in the back. House of Food Porn is a good value considering the uniqueness of the experience, the first-rate ingredients, and that wine is included.
Name: Tamera Bryant-Gardener
Restaurant Pick: Tom Jenkins
Reviewed: House of Food Porn
I arrived at least 25 minutes early and had to wait outside. I was hot but I was brought a nice refreshing glass of water and a rose. At 5:50 pm, I went inside and was immediately greeted by Nicky the hostess and she escorted me to my seat. Each diner had their own personalized place card. I purchased the 4-course tasting with dessert and wine, but I got an immediate surprise from Nicky. She told me that the Chef had decided to invite me to join the 6-course tasting which the other guest had ordered. I was flabbergasted and so thankful and best of all, it was a complementary add-on. The event was very quaint and cozy because there were only 3 diners. I am writing this review and becoming emotional. I want to share this experience with everyone I know and love. Each course was brought out one at a time and the Chef wouldn’t tell us what we were eating. He would let us taste and then he would come and explain the origins of each dish. You could see the love he has for his craft and we could taste it. There were ingredients such as anchovies and lamb that I have all proclaimed to hate but, because of Chef Frank, I am willing to give these items another chance. Nicky and I took pictures together which they sent me. She even texted me to make sure I got home safely. Who does that? I want to personally thank the guest reviewer who suggested House of Food Porn.
Restaurant Information
Location: : 197 NW 62nd St, Miami, FL 33150
Parking: Back of building
Phone: 305-788-0137
Website:www.houseoffoodporn.com
Restaurant Owners: Francisco Antonio Blanco
Executive Chef: Francisco Antonio Blanco
Pastry Chef: N/A
Type of Cuisine: Cuban “Shushi”
Signature Dishes: Shushi
Vegetarian Options: Yes
Alcohol Served: Wine
Corkage Fee: $35/bottle
Bottle Limit: N/A
Restaurant Hours: *By appointment only*
Monday– Closed
Tuesday– Closed
Wedensday– Closed
Thursday– Closed
Friday– 6:00PM - 11:00PM
Saturday– 6:00PM - 11:00PM
Sunday– 6:00PM - 11:00PM
Meals Served: Dinner
Prix Fix Menu: Yes – multiple options but, all fixed price
Take-Out: No
Delivery: No
Average Dinner Price Range (per person, full meal, tax, 20% gratuity, w/o alcohol): $110-170.00
Average Lunch Price Range (per person, full meal, tax, 20% gratuity, w/o alcohol): N/A
Payment Options: do you accept credit cards and if so, which ones? All major credit cards
Accept Reservations: Yes
Need Reservations: Yes
How far in advance do you require reservations be made: 24 Hours
Accommodations for Children: No - Must be 21+
Dining Style: Intimate, tasting menu
Disabled Access: Yes
Restaurant Size: 16 is max
Accommodate Groups: Yes
Private Dining Room: All private
Tables with Scenic Views: No
Outdoor Dining: No
Entertainment: Yes, chef interacts and cooks in front of you