New Naples restaurant: Unidos, a Modern Nuevo Latino concept
Unidos, the much-awaited space overhaul, is officially open, and it might just be the best of the year.
Lead by Sal Muñoz, his spouse Jaime Muñoz, who is in charge of the exquisite interior design, and business associate Carlos Angel, the new location symbolizes togetherness and gets its name from Unidad, the group’s original suburban Chicago eatery that has generally received four and five stars on Yelp and TripAdvisor.
The restaurant combines Valento’s near Central Avenue and the former Starbucks on Ninth Street, according to a recent article by Diana Biederman of Naples Daily News
One of the most sought-after dining sections is an 11-seat cocktail bar with striking tile elements and lighting, as well as a separate bar with a variety of ceviche selections. The latter has an open kitchen with chef Melina Martinez in charge and looks out over a handcrafted wood-fire barbecue.
Why Naples?
“My wife and I came down here six years ago with my in-laws, who come once a year for a month.” Sal remarked, “We simply fell in love with Naples.”
Additionally, Unidos is distinct from the many fusion ideas in the community. What isn’t it? a place that serves free chips and salsa.
Rather, the objective was to design a high-end Nuevo Latino business along the lines of those found in sophisticated Latin American capitals such as Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Lima, and others. Large black-and-white pictures of well-known locations that serve as inspiration for the menu are included on a mural that carries over the concept.
On the menu
During Unidos’ first month, the pan-Latin menu is still in the works. Peruvian cuisine is referenced in two dishes: a spicy huancaina risotto and a crispy ceviche made with fried rice, a la Nobu. Cuban inspiration is evident in the ropa viejo-studded gnocchi.
A variety of ceviches and empanada options are traditional staples. For $19, you may get a taster platter of chorizos from Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia together with cornbread patties. Steaks and other meats cooked over wood range in price from $35 to $39. $13 for elote fritters with tempura flour and micro cilantro—a holdover from the Chicago site that is receiving positive social media feedback. The burger comes with yuca fries on the side and provolone and eggplant aioli for those with less daring tastes.
Things to consider before traveling
1. Daily hours are from 4 to 10 p.m.
2. Complete bar with handcrafted cocktails; all mix components, including syrups, are homemade. The wine selection, which mostly features vintages from Chile and Argentina, is similarly a work in progress. Munoz is researching wines from family-run vineyards in Mexico, a growing market for premium wines.
3. Parking behind the restaurant is easiest.
4. There are 24 seats on the terrace outdoors that faces Central Avenue.
5. There are 12 seats in the private dining room.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News
