About us

Palmar is Spanish for palm grove and when owner Javier Ramirez was in search for a name for his new Chinese restaurant with a tropical vibe, the word came instantly. Also perhaps since there was a very popular Chinese restaurant near the Caracas, Venezuela neighborhood where he grew up called El Palmar. Open in November 2017, the restaurant was selected the following year by Bon Appétit magazine as one of the 50 best new restaurants in the country, and soon thereafter received 4 stars from the Miami Herald. It was named the best Chinese restaurant in town by Time Out Miami in 2019 and was recently named best Chinese restaurant in town by the Miami New Times. During the first few years the menu was a la carte Modern Chinese, which meant taking the wide range of Chinese gastronomy dishes and offering a new twist of presentation. The wine list was created with curious gastronomes in mind, who seek new and different pairings for their food. In 2020, a tasting menu with a wine pairing to suit was created to give customers the chance to experience the Palmar offering at its best, curated by our chef and sommelier. Since the very beginning Palmar has been hosting events with guest chefs both local and from out of town and special wines. In 2023, Palmar moved to a new location at the Julia and Henry food hall in Downtown Miami, and pivoted to Asian Street Food Hawker to include staples on the menu from other countries in Asia. 

Our menu is a celebration of Asian fusion, featuring favorites like Sweet & Sour Chicken, Mongolian Beef, and Spicy Pork Noodles. Patrons rave about the Vegetable Lumpias and Pork Belly Bao Buns, perfect for a quick lunch yet satisfying. Each dish is crafted to offer a delightful mix of small, medium, and large plates, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Dining at Palmar is more than just a meal; it's an exploration of Asian street food culture. Whether you're stopping by during your lunch break or visiting downtown Miami, we invite you to savor our delicious offerings. Join us at Palmar for an unforgettable culinary journey throu.

Javier Ramirez

Javier Ramirez, the visionary behind Palmar, hails from Venezuela and has made his mark as a distinguished restaurateur in Miami. With a background in corporate finance, Javier followed his passion for food, co-founding some of Miami's most acclaimed dining establishments, including Alter, Bachour, and La Natural. In 2015, he opened his first restaurant, Alter, and quickly gained recognition for his culinary ventures. By 2017, Javier was honored as the 'Restaurateur of the Year' by Miami New Times, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the city's vibrant culinary scene. At Palmar, Javier brings his expertise to life, offering a unique Asian street food experience in the heart of Miami.