El Cielo just opened at the rooftop of Casa Vigil in Upper Buena Vista where it serves mystical-inspired cocktails like none other in an ethereal atmosphere.
It's been almost a year since the world-renowned winemaker Alejandro Vigil brought Casa Vigil from Argentina to Miami, making the Magic City its United States debut. Since then, the restaurant's rooftop space has been unused as the team came up with a new concept that matched its upscale atmosphere but was also unique. Soon, El Cielo by Casa Vigil was born, blending art, mysticism, and music.
"At El Cielo, we've crafted an environment where every element is an invitation to indulge in the extraordinary," says Nicolas Boffi, co-owner of Casa Vigil Miami. "From the ambient lighting that mimics the stars to the hand-painted murals that tell stories of mythical lands, every detail is designed to transport our guests into a world of wonder."
The speakeasy rooftop bar takes inspiration from Dante's Divine Comedy; as Dante ascends to "paradise," he is met with the brilliance of light, vibrant colors, rich aromas, and the beauty of nature. The decoration features wooden and earthy tones, greenery, and lots of gold, including an entire sun-like golden DJ space.
"El Cielo is more than just a rooftop bar; it's a portal to another dimension," says Julieta Rosales, concept creator of El Cielo. "Designed to offer a unique and immersive experience, every session marks the seamless transition from day into vibrant nightlife. We blend exceptional mixology, distinctive flavors, and house music to craft a high-energy atmosphere of unparalleled quality."
On the menu, guests will find a fusion of Argentine-inspired gastronomy crafted by executive chef Mikel Goikolea, including tuna tartare, oysters, and some of the restaurant's signature items such as the empanadas filled with a choice of oxtail, skirt steak, or spinach. The highlight of the menu, however, lies with the beverage program.
Tarot Cards Decide Your Mythical Cocktail — If You Dare
While guests are welcome to pick drinks from the extensive menu of classics and wines, all will have an option to let fate decide. Upon arrival, guests can pick from a deck of El Cielo's own designed "tarot" cards, each representing one of the six signature drinks on the menu that comes with a fortune.By pulling the "Afrodita" card, guests will get a pink cocktail made with flower-infused vodka, lychee juice, raspberry shrub, and bubbles served in a heart-shaped glass. The fortune reads, "Love is the most powerful force; let it guide your actions and fill your life with beauty."
The "Yavre" card represents wisdom and reads, "Seek the truth deep within yourself, for there lies divine wisdom." Its matching drink is perfect for bourbon lovers and features salvia and lemon liquor, lime, honey, and rosemary cinnamon.
No need to fear when pulling the "Lucifer." Its fortune reads, "Sometimes, the best path is the least expected; let fun reveal new perspectives." The cocktail features reposado tequila, chili-infused agave, a blend of four citrus fruits, and cinnamon served in a skull-shaped vessel.
One of the last cocktails is inspired by the "Virgen de Guadalupe," the mezcal with passion fruit cocktail has a Tajin rim and its fortune reads, "Faith and hope will lead you down illuminated paths; trust in the divine power to protect you."
Access to El Cielo is reserved for those with an "invitation" unlocked via the speakeasy's social media account (@elcielo.rooftop.) The account is private, so guests are encouraged to request to follow to gain entry.
EL Cielo. 5020 NE Second Ave., Miami; instagram.com/elcielo.rooftop. Open Saturdays from 6 p.m. to late. El Cielo will soon expand its hours, operating Thursday through Saturday.
