Cafe Mistral is a quaint bistro on Washington Avenue specializing in traditional French cuisine. The owner, Phillippe Falca, showcases his love of everything gastronomical, bringing guests a very approachable menu with fresh, local and organic ingredients.

CAFE MISTRAL
110 WASHINGTON AVENUE
MIAMI BEACH, FL 33134
305.763.8184 

The mistral is the wind that blows from the South of France into the Gulf of Lion in the northern Mediterranean, and it is how this little cafe got its name. Born in Miami and raised with a strong French-Cuban influence, owner Phillipe Falca has brought a bit of this easygoing French flare to the South of Fifth neighborhood.

Comfortably lit, the rustic decor of the restaurant is very charming and inviting - a refreshing break from the over-the-top (and overpriced) restaurants commonly found on South Beach. Cafe Mistral is your place to relax and enjoy delicious French cuisine.

While settling in our cozy booth, we took note of the open kitchen on the second floor as dishes were transported via dumbwaiter providing a vintage touch to the venue. We started off with a refreshing White Sangria ($5), made with Verdejo, berries and a hint of passion fruit.

We enjoyed the Crostini with Prosciutto and Brie ($9) as an appetizer. Cafe Mistral offers bread from Zak the Baker, the popular Wynwood bakery and cafe, specializing in natural baked goods. 

We tried the Ceviche of the Day (Market Price) which was much more enjoyable than most in the city. It was served with hearty cuts of fresh fish. Ernesto, the manager, purchases the fish each morning from a local market. "Quality is the most important element in each of our dishes," he told us, as we finished the delicious plate.

Next we enjoyed the Swordfish with grilled vegetables (Market Price.) The fish was seasoned to perfection and the veggies were crisp and delicious, all locally sourced from Mr. Greens Produce and brought in on a daily basis. 

The Filet Mignon ($36) was tender and juicy, cooked to a perfect medium rare, served with a side of portobello mushrooms and pasta. All beef served at Cafe Mistral is organic and grass-fed from Hereford breed cows.

After those delicious and savory dishes, we indulged in homemade Cheesecake ($9). We noticed hints of vanilla as it was served warm topped with berries and freshly whipped cream. 

We completed our charming dinner with a cup of Marley Coffee.  Founded by Rohan Marley, son of the legendary and beloved musician, Bob Marley, Marley Coffee sources its sustainably grown, ethically farmed and artisan roasted gourmet coffee beans from around the world, including Ethiopia, Central and South America and Jamaica. We enjoyed a rich, flavorful espresso before we departed from this little French cafe.

Cafe Mistral offers breakfast, lunch or dinner indoors or al fresco so you can experience the Miami Beach breeze. They also feature Sunday Brunch ($40 with bottomles Mimosas or Bellinis, $35 with French press coffee or Cappuccino). Visit this little peice of Europe next time you're in need of an escape from the bustle of South Beach.