Edgar C
Google
Tucked into the vibrant stretch of Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile, La Pata Gorda isn’t just another spot competing for the attention of hungry Miamian diners; it’s an invitation to plunge fork-first into the depth and dynamism of Ecuadorian coastal cuisine, all with a breezy Miami swagger. The name? “The Fat Leg.” Playful, bold, and (once you meet the crab) perfectly fitting.
Inside, the space balances rustic charm with refined design: exposed wood, warm ambient lighting, nautical hints that steer clear of cliché, and a striking mural of the Ecuadorian mangrove that hints at the menu’s heart. It’s the kind of place where you linger; maybe for a second cocktail, maybe for a second round of crab.
The menu is a flavorful ode to the Ecuadorean coast, starting with the Jipijapa-Style Ceviche, a citrusy mix of shrimp, octopus, and fresh catch topped with roasted peanuts. If crunch is your love language, the Seafood Chicharrón delivers golden, addictive bites of calamari, shrimp, and fish with crisp plantain chips.
Craving something shareable? The Pata Gorda Platter is a greatest-hits collection: ceviche, calamari, crab claws; which pairs perfectly with an evening on their relaxed outdoor patio. But for me the true showstopper is the Chopsué: tender crab over a bed of gloriously crispy rice, with fried plantains and a slightly spicy house sauce that ties everything together.
On another visit, the Crab Bisque proved silky and indulgent, while the Signature Cazuela: green plantain, roasted peanut sauce, shrimp, and fish; felt like a seaside postcard from Ecuador blending fresh sea flavors, warm hospitality, and a sense of home.