Julia and Henry’s – Miami Food Hall Review

Ever heard about Miami’s newest food hall called “Julia and Henrys”? Michelle found it on Instagram and insisted we check it out. Located on Flagler Street, Julia & Henry’s is part of the revitalization of downtown Miami, aiming to attract more tourism and boost the local economy. We spent our first time at Julia & Henry’s Miami food hall and I have to say, it’s unlike any other food hall on the planet! It’s more of an entertainment destination than anything!

This is my full Julia Henry’s review, and inside I’ll talk about every type of food you can get there as well as dive into some of the highlights that we felt were worth running back for.

Downtown Miami Food Hall Overview

In June of 2023, Downtown Miami welcomed one of the county’s most ambitious new dining spots: Julia & Henry’s. This unique venue spans seven floors, featuring 26 diverse culinary concepts, making it one of the most exciting food halls in the area. Beyond dining, the space includes recording studios, communal workspaces, and other businesses.

Named after Miami’s founders, Julia Tuttle and Henry Flagler, Julia & Henry’s celebrates the historical significance of its building. Operated by the Miami-based King Goose Hospitality group, the building originally opened in 1936 as a Walgreen Drug Store and has housed various tenants over the years, including the La Epoca department store, which closed in 2016.

This destination boasts the nation’s highest concentration of award-winning chefs under one roof. Among them are James Beard Award winners and chefs recognized by the World’s 50 Best rankings, including Massimo Bottura (Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy), Tomás Kalika (Mishiguene in Buenos Aires), and Renzo Garibaldi (Osso in Lima, Peru). Miami favorites like Michelle Bernstein and José Mendín are also part of this stellar lineup.

Once you enter off Flagler St on the ground floor, prepare to be amazed as you see what a Walgreens drug store can turn into with the right minds behind it!

Julia and Henry’s Bars

Let’s start where you can find us – at the bars! There are multiple bars here offering different cocktails, and here’s a brief overview of all of them.

Boxelder Craft Beer Bar

For the discerned craft beer enthusiast, Boxelder offers weekly rotating taps on a weekly basis. Located on the mezzanine floor, you can’t go wrong sampling the best craft beer from local Miami breweries.

La Epoca Wine Bar

It wouldn’t be Miami without a wine bar. We sat here and while we didn’t order wine, it wasn’t because there was a shortage! We opted for a few bee’s knees and other craft cocktails. Mine was tequila based and I can’t even explain how good it was!

The Alicia

Another Miami themed spritz bar, you can sip on cocktails at the bar named after the “wild” ex-wife of Henry Flagler. Try a Hugo Spritz or any of their other creative cocktails that are made from prosecco.

The Lasseter

This one is an eye appealing, jaw dropping bar located on the third floor. We were over-served and didn’t get a chance to drink here, but I did get a great photo of it. This bar is known for craft cocktails, like the Guayaba Collins and the Alligator Alley, a drink featuring mezcal, wasabi basil syrup, and lemon and cucumber juice. I will be returning soon and starting off my journey at the Lasseter.

Food Available at Julia & Henry’s

Michy’s Chicken Shack, known for its focus on fried chicken, stands out as a notable dining option within Julia & Henry’s food hall.

Okay, this list is going to be long, so I’m going to be brief in descriptions.

Achar

Achar Kitchen is a modern, fast-casual South Asian restaurant inspired by traditional Bengali street food. Discover unique flavors with our authentic platters that perfectly balance sweet, sour, and spice. Enjoy the market’s famous fish dishes, rich and fragrant curries, vibrant chutneys, and fresh herbs and pickles (achar). Experience an unparalleled harmony of flavors at Achar Street Kitchen.

Amazonica

Here you can find Colombian-inspired flavors that are staples in Latin culture.  Coffee and breakfast dishes are their specialties.

Battulbelin

What’s a food hall without pizza and pasta?  We sampled the Diavola pizza and it was okay.  Next time we’ll dive into their other dishes and hope for a better experience.

Cicchetti

This Venetian inspired tapas bar is one of the more popular destinations here.  The food is eclectic and truly elevated experience.  

Fookem’s Fabulous

This is a very simple concept – grab and go key lime pies in a vending machine!  They were sold out when we visited.

Greenvibe

Health inspired farm to table green dishes for the health conscious.  

Hitchihaika

The name of this restaurant translates to “hitch hiker,” and here you’ll find Japanese themed street food like their take on Gyozas.  

J Wong

It wouldn’t be a complete Miami food hall without ceviche!  Here you can find simple, fresh, and delectable ceviche dishes.  

June

Chefs Jose Mendin and Jorge Mijangos of the Miami favorite Pubbelly Sushi paired up on this restaurant to do their take on wagyu burgers.  Our friend Eddie had one and was blown away!

L’Atisane Bakery

The first ever vegan French bakery in the USA is one of the main attractions you’ll see upon entering the venue.  The macarons and croissants looked incredible!  Next time!

Mensch

Mensch is a cultural melting pot expressed through cuisine, telling the story of the Jewish diaspora by blending ingredients and techniques from around the world. Featuring dishes like scratch-made pastrami, homemade breads, salmon, and trout, Mensch’s menu takes you on a culinary journey through family recipes inspired by cozy homes on every continent.

OMG Brigadeiros

Brazilian chocolates that are a very good gift!  This one is a must see to believe!  It’s right there when you enter the venue, and I guarantee you won’t be able to take your eyes off their chocolates!

Osso

Part restaurant, part butcher shop, this is a one of a kind destination for beef lovers!  

Palmar

Asian street food offer plates ranging from tiny bites to full sized meals.

Peachy’s Chicken Shack

A HUGE variety of fried and non-fried chicken dishes.  The smells from this place will draw you in!

Puffles Ice Cream

Whoa!  You’ve just found a stand that sells the most immaculate ice cream cones and even boba tea!

Rozu

Michelle’s a sucker for a fresh poke bowl, and here you can see her waiting for her meal. It was outstanding! 

Sankuay

A hot wok cooks up a fusion blend of Peruvian and Cantonese dishes.  This is on the list for our next visit! 

Shimuja

Having a location in Southwest Ranches near our house, we were no strangers to Shimuja.  It’s one of the best ramen’s you can get in South Florida!

Tacotomia

Authentic Mexican food is available here.  Our friend Brandon gave it rave reviews, but sadly we had Mexican the previous night and didn’t try it.  Next time!

The Alicia

All Day breakfast is the theme here.  Bowls, eggs, pancakes, the whole nine yards!

TKL

Fresh Lobster Rolls.  Need I say more?  

Yabai

Offering up hand rolls, Yabai’s menu is made of rolls from rice, nori, and a protein and sauce of your choice.  

Yann Couvreur Patisserie

This eye dropping French pastry destination uses the freshest ingredients and is sure to draw you in as soon as you set eyes on this display!

Ground Floor Restaurants

On the ground floor you’ll find mostly breakfast-facing venues featuring coffee and pastries, but that’s not everything. There are ten ground floor establishments, including:

• Amazonica
• Chicceti
• Green Vibe
• J Wong
• L’Artisane Bakery
• Omg Brigadeiros
• Osso
• Puffles
• The Alicia
• Yann Couvreur Patisserie

Mezzanine floor Restaurants

From here you’ll go up one level to the Mezzanine level, which includes:

• Batubbelin
• Fookem’s Fabulous
• June
• La Petite Cuisine
• Peachy’s Chicken Shack
• Rozu
• Takotomia
• TKL

Balcony Floor Restaurants

 

On the balcony floor, where you’ll have the best views of the entire food hall, you can find:

• Achar
• Hitchihaika
• Mensch
• Palmar
• Sankuay
• Shimuja
• Yabai

 

What to Know Before Your Visit

Having touched on “Julia and Henrys’” culinary wonders from the Cicchetti Platter and Carbonara Dumplings to the exquisite pastries from Yann Couvreur, I realize it is important to share some points to keep in mind when planning your visit.

First off, the establishement operates on a “first come, first served” basis. No reservations are required to enjoy the gastronomic journey at “Julia and Henrys.” While this casual dining approach caters to spontaneous food enthusiasts, it could sometimes mean facing unexpected wait times during peak hours. Bear this in mind when planning your trip, especially if you are going in a large group.

For a more private dining experience, consider visiting the Venetian-themed restaurant located on the first floor. The design of the space helps maintain privacy from onlookers, making it a perfect spot for a special meal.

You might also want to plan your menu before your visit. While the fusion of international cuisine is exciting, it can also be overwhelming for the unprepared diner. My personal favorite, the Carbonara Dumplings, are indescribable. The Cicchetti Platter and Yann Couvreur’s pastries are also highly recommended.

Furthermore, the price points at “Julia and Henrys” are varied with something for everyone. Be it a special occasion or a casual night out, their menu caters to diverse budget preferences. While a small handful of delicacies can be had for $15 or less, like the Carbonara Dumplings, expect the majority of options to settle within the mid-range price.

Mind the operating hours too. “Julia and Henrys” serves its magic from breakfast right up till late dinner service, but specific dishes may only be available during certain times. For example, Yann Couvreur’s pastries make the perfect breakfast or tea-time snack but are often sold out by dinner time due to their popularity.

I also encourage you to check out the bathroom on the third floor. It screams “you are in Miami.”

Also, order food wherever you are at. For me, that’s at one of the bars. Simply scan the QR code and you’ll be able to easily order food from any of the restaurants in Julia Henry’s food hall.  You’ll get text message updates as your order is placed, and when it’s ready.  

Julia & Henry’s Conclusion

I’m sort of a food hall junkie. When in Minnesota, I visit Graze in the North Loop. This venue is that concept on steroids.  It’s a complete “Miami version” of what a food hall should be.  Keeping the name sakes of Miami founders Julia Tuttle and Henry Flagler is pretty cool as well.  

You can find anything you want, and more, at what I feel is instantly Miami’s best food hall.  Don’t walk, run, to downtown Miami and experience the greatness for yourself.  

What is the Cicchetti Platter?

The Cicchetti Platter, served at Julia and Henrys, offers traditional Venetian tapas. It is a standout for its high quality and value.

What are the Carbonara Dumplings?

The Carbonara Dumplings are a fusion dish served at Hitchihaika, priced at $15. They blend creamy carbonara with Asian influences, creating a unique and comforting dining experience.

Where can I find Yann Couvreur’s pastries?

Yann Couvreur’s pastries, acclaimed for their exquisite craftsmanship and flavors, can be enjoyed at the café, to go, or via delivery.

Does Julia and Henrys require reservations?

No, Julia and Henrys operates on a “first come, first served” basis, so reservations are not needed.

Is planning a menu ahead recommended for Julia and Henrys?

Yes, planning the menu ahead is recommended at Julia and Henrys due to the diverse and sometimes overwhelming fusion of international cuisine.

What are the operating hours for Julia and Henrys?

Operating hours for Julia and Henrys vary, with certain dishes available at specific times. It’s best to check the restaurant’s operating hours before visiting.

Are takeaway options available at Julia and Henrys?

Yes, Julia and Henrys offers to-go and delivery options for those who prefer to enjoy their dishes at home.