MIAMI \u2014 A popular Canadian restaurant known for its upscale yet approachable dining is expanding into South Florida, opening one of its first U.S. locations in downtown Miami.<\/p>\n
Cactus Club Cafe, a nearly 40-year-old brand with a strong following in Canada, has opened a 11,500-square-foot space that can seat about 280 guests, with indoor and outdoor dining, multiple bars and a design inspired by Miami.<\/p>\n
Brendon Sequeira, regional manager for Brendon Sequeira, said Miami was a natural choice for the company\u2019s U.S. expansion.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy not Miami! It\u2019s a good fit for Cactus Club. We\u2019re super proud to be apart of this community and this bustling, growing hospitality scene. And the way we see it, if we can make it out here in Miami we can make it anywhere in the U.S,\u201d said Sequeira. <\/p>\n
The restaurant, which describes its concept as \u201celevated everyday dining,\u201d offers a menu that blends global influences, including sushi, burgers, handhelds and steak options.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re about 37 years old,\u201d said Sequeira. \u201cWe\u2019re a premium offering at an approachable price point.\u201d<\/p>\n
Some menu items are flown in or prepared fresh daily, including sushi selections prepared each morning.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe food is new modern North American cuisine,\u201d Sequeira added. \u201cIt\u2019s really a collection of global cuisine. You can do everything from sushi to a burger or hadnhaelds. We have a really good steak program as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
Signature dishes include sticky ribs, which the restaurant says are a fan favorite and available during weekday happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m.<\/p>\n
The Miami location also features items tailored specifically to the local market, along with a design and atmosphere the company says reflect the city\u2019s style.<\/p>\n
Sequeira said the company also aims to bring a service style rooted in its Canadian origins.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou often talk about southern hospitality, we wanted to show you what northern hospitality was all about,\u201d he said. \u201cCanadians are known to be gracious, polite, we really want to show that reflects in our service style, the warmth that you feel when you walk into the building.\u201d<\/p>\n