Spanish Octopus and Spicy Tequila in Coral Gables

Here we are, mere days away from celebrating America’s independence.

Perfectly charred hot dogs. Cannonballs. Questionable fire-related choices. Should be fun.

But before that day comes, you have some choices to make. Namely, Mediterranean octopus or Wagyu toast? At M House Miami, a lovely new boîte that opens Monday in Coral Gables.

Oh, good. You’re already planning on bringing a date. You’ll see why that’s a good idea once the two of you enter the stunning Deco-inspired space where elegance and design intermingle freely. Here’s what all of that looks like, by the way.

The graphically designed floor beneath you will be the first thing you notice. Go ahead and glide across that to the adjoining lounge and ask the barkeep to place a Khaleesi in front of you on the marble bar. It’s got tequila, pepper agave mix and cucumber soda. It’s nice. So is the olive tree in the dining room and the Japanese-inspired lighting. 

But you’re mostly just here to make sparkling dinner conversation on the patio amid the lush plants, fountain and marble-top tables. Will it be that Mediterranean octopus with zucchini and baba ghanoush? Or that Wagyu toast with homemade whole wheat bread and roasted garlic aioli? 

Perhaps it will be one of the just-flown-in Mediterranean catches displayed at the seafood bar framing the open kitchen. Yes, have that prepared to your liking on the Josper grill.

No offense to hot dogs.