Gastón Riveira earned his reputation as the “artist of the asado” by transforming traditional Argentine parrilla (grill) into an elevated yet singularly approachable dining experience that honors Buenos Aires’ rich culinary heritage. As the creative force behind La Cabrera at 2895 McFarlane Road, Riveira brings a meticulous yet playful approach to grilling, combining time-honored techniques with innovative presentations that have made his restaurants beloved from Argentina to Miami.
Since opening in Sunny Isles in 2022, La Cabrera has expanded to both Coconut Grove and Midtown Miami with each location capturing the warmth and generosity of an authentic asado porteño.
In this conversation, Riveira shares his vision for bringing Argentine culture to Miami’s dining scene, the philosophy behind every perfectly charred cut, and what it means to build community around the table.
Q: When did La Cabrera first open in Miami, and what inspired you to bring this Argentine parrilla to the Magic City, and ultimately to Coconut Grove?
Riveira: La Cabrera first arrived in Miami in 2022 with our Sunny Isles location. The city’s vibrant mix of cultures, passion for great food, and appreciation for authenticity made it the perfect home for our Argentine parrilla. Coconut Grove became our second location because of its charm, history, and strong sense of community — it’s a neighborhood that truly embraces the kind of warm, welcoming dining experience we offer. Midtown followed as our third location, bringing La Cabrera’s flavors to yet another corner of Miami.
Q: How does La Cabrera Miami capture the essence of an authentic asado porteño?
Riveira: An asado porteño is more than just grilling meat, it’s about gathering people, sharing stories, and creating memories around the table. At La Cabrera, we honor that tradition by using premium cuts, slow cooking over charcoal, and serving each dish with generous sides and sauces, just as you would find in Buenos Aires.
Q. You are known as the “artist of the asado.” How does this creative approach influence the dishes and the overall dining experience at La Cabrera?
Riveira: I have a playful yet meticulous approach to Argentine grilling. I combine respect for tradition with innovative touches, from unexpected flavor pairings to how we present our dishes. That creativity translates into an experience that feels authentic and unique.
Q. What are some of La Cabrera Miami’s signature dishes that best represent the essence of the Argentine parrilla and Gastón Riveira’s culinary philosophy?
Riveira: Our Bife de Chorizo (New York strip) and Ojo de Bife (ribeye) are classics that showcase the quality of our beef. We also serve morcilla (blood sausage), provoleta (grilled provolone cheese), and a variety of house-made chimichurris and pickled vegetables, all staples of the Argentine parrilla. Each dish elevates simple ingredients through quality, technique, and presentation.
Q. How has La Cabrera’s partnership with the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID) contributed to its presence and growth in the neighborhood?
Riveira: Being part of the BID has allowed us to connect more deeply with the community. From participating in neighborhood events to collaborating with other local businesses, the BID has helped us integrate into the fabric of Coconut Grove and strengthen our presence.
Q. Described as a “baroque neighborhood bistro with an atmosphere that blends history,” how do you bring this ambiance to life for guests, and what role does it play in the overall experience?
Riveira: We combine antique-inspired décor with warm lighting, vintage accents, and music that evokes Buenos Aires. Every detail is designed to transport our guests, to make them feel like they’ve stepped into a timeless corner of Argentina, right here in Miami.
Q. What role does your partnership with Certified Angus Beef (CAB) play in maintaining the quality and flavor that set La Cabrera apart from other parrillas?
Riveira: Well, as you may or may not know Certified Angus Beef is a premium beef brand known for higher quality, better marbling, and stricter standards than typical USDA grades. It’s not a grade of beef—it’s a brand with its own certification process, built around consistency and flavor. Our partnership with CAB ensures consistency in flavor, tenderness, and marbling. It’s a guarantee to our guests that every steak they order will meet the highest standards, which is essential to preserving our reputation as a premium parrilla.
Q. Looking ahead, are there any new trends, dishes, or experiences that guests can look forward to at La Cabrera Miami? How do you plan to keep evolving without losing the essence of the restaurant?
Riveira: We’ll continue to introduce seasonal specials, wine pairing events, and unique cuts that highlight the versatility of Argentine grilling. Our evolution will always be rooted in tradition, we innovate without ever losing sight of the warmth, generosity, and quality that define La Cabrera.
Q. In what ways has being part of the Coconut Grove BID strengthened La Cabrera’s connection with local diners and Miami’s dining scene in general?
Riveira: Through the BID, we’ve been able to create stronger bonds with our neighbors, participate in local initiatives, and be part of the ongoing story of Coconut Grove’s growth. It has positioned us not just as a restaurant, but as an active member of the community.
Q. Finally, outside the kitchen, what are you passionate about? Do you have any hobbies or causes you support?
Riveira: I’m passionate about wine, cigars, and sports, especially padel [a fast-growing racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash]. I also support initiatives that promote Argentine culture abroad, because I believe food is one of the most powerful ways to connect people and share traditions.
ABOUT LA CABRERA: Located at 2895 McFarlane Road right next to the Ayra Hotel Coconut Grove, La Cabrera is a relaxed, New York-style eatery offering Argentine staples such as steaks and ribs, plus wines and cocktails. For information, visit La Cabrera online or call 786-534-4645. For reservations visit opentable.com.
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Mon 3–10 PM
Tue 3–10 PM
Wed 3–10 PM
Thur 11:30 AM–10 PM
Fri 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
Sat 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
Sun 11:30 AM–10:30 PM