Barra Vieja — Restaurant in Doral

I rarely leave negative reviews, but my recent experience at this restaurant was extremely disappointing, especially since I chose it to celebrate my father’s birthday with our family. We were hoping for a memorable evening, but unfortunately, it turned out to be memorable for all the wrong reasons.

First, while the food was acceptable, it took an unreasonably long time to arrive. However, the biggest issue by far was the service, which was absolutely horrible. Our server, Margarita, provided some of the worst service I’ve ever encountered. She was inattentive and dismissive throughout the entire evening. Our water glasses sat empty for the duration of the meal, and dirty plates lingered on the table long after we were done eating.

What made the experience even worse was that Margarita seemed completely uninterested in providing any level of service, likely because our party of five triggered the automatic 20% gratuity. It felt like she knew she would be tipped regardless of how she treated us, and unfortunately, her lack of care showed.

To add insult to injury, she spent a significant amount of time chatting and laughing with another table—who seemed to be her friends—while completely ignoring our repeated attempts to get her attention. And when we did ask for basic service like refilling water or placing an order, we were met with attitude and a look of pure annoyance.

If the excuse is that it was busy, let me be clear: it was not busy at all. I completely understand how it feels to work in the service industry, especially during hectic times. But this was not one of those situations. The restaurant was calm, and there was no reason for the lack of attention we received. Having worked in the service industry myself, I can confidently say this was the worst dining experience I’ve ever had, especially for a restaurant of this supposed caliber.

We each spent about $50-100, and to receive zero service in return was beyond frustrating. It’s unfortunate that we were forced to leave a 20% tip for such an awful experience. I can only hope the management takes this feedback seriously because no one should have to pay premium prices for such subpar service.

If you decide to dine here, I sincerely hope you don’t end up with Margarita as your server. This was one birthday dinner we won’t forget—but sadly, for all the...

FOODIE REVIEW: I had been eagerly anticipating the opening of Barra Vieja and have already had the pleasure of dining there three times. From start to finish, each visit has been exceptional.

On my first visit, I started with their margarita and homemade guacamole with chips—and let me tell you, it’s the best guacamole I’ve ever had! Served in a generous portion, the guac was so fresh and flavorful that our table devoured it within minutes. For my entrée, I opted for the Birria tacos, which were an absolute delight. The meat was incredibly tender and juicy, melting in my mouth with every bite. Even after dipping the tacos into the consommé, they remained perfectly crunchy, adding a satisfying texture to the bold, authentic flavors.

During my second visit, we tried the Razurados oysters, which were fantastic. I’m not usually a big fan of oysters, but the salsa and lime topping gave them a vibrant twist that won me over. We also ordered the Tostada de Atún, which was easily one of my favorite dishes. The fresh, high-quality tuna paired beautifully with the flavorful salsa and creamy mayo topping. For my main dish, I had the Carne Asada, cooked to a perfect medium rare. The crispy potatoes and roasted peppers on the side elevated each bite, and the addition of salsa verde and tortillas gave the option to enjoy it fajita-style. To end the meal, we had the chocolate tres leches for dessert—my first time trying this twist on a classic, and it was incredible. We finished it before I was able to snap a picture. I’ll definitely be back for it again!

The atmosphere at Barra Vieja is equally remarkable. The live mariachi band adds a festive and authentic touch that enhances the dining experience. The service has been consistently professional, informative, and attentive, making every visit enjoyable.

Barra Vieja is truly a gem for high-end Mexican cuisine. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for exceptional food, great ambiance, and top-tier service. I can’t...

Nestled in the heart of Doral, we made the trip from downtown Miami to visit this new gem that pays homage to its rich Mexican roots. I have visited many of the Chef/Owners’s restaurants in NY and wanted to try his latest creations. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that beautifully blends traditional elements with a modern twist.

The menu at Barra Vieja is nothing short of impressive. Each dish is a celebration of authentic Mexican flavors, crafted with fresh ingredients that truly transport you to the streets of Mexico. The tacos are a must-try—filled with tender meats and bursting with flavor. A trip to Cabo a few years ago resulted in me enjoying cooked fish for the first time and the flavors and preparation brought me back to Cabo. The guacamole is fresh and creamy, making it a perfect starter.

One of the standout features of Barra Vieja is its trendy bar, which boasts a generous selection of tequila and mezcal. The mixologists craft unique cocktails that elevate the dining experience, with options that cater to both adventurous and classic palates.

As someone who has enjoyed good food living outside New York City, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and creativity of Barra Vieja’s offerings. The prices are refreshingly reasonable, especially when compared to the steep rates typically found in Miami and New York. This makes it an excellent choice for both casual outings and special occasions.

Overall, Barra Vieja is a fantastic addition to the local dining scene. With great food and a trendy bar, it’s a place that deserves a visit. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or just looking for a fun night out, Barra Vieja is...