There’s something about Bulla Gastrobar in Coral Gables that instantly puts you at ease.
Maybe it’s the glow of the space as you step inside, or the way the never feels overwhelming.
It’s lively but not chaotic, polished without being pretentious, and truly the kind of place where a casual dinner can effortlessly turn into a long night of shared plates and one more round than you originally planned.
When I visited the Coral Gables location, the atmosphere felt especially inviting. The space strikes a balance between modern and warm, with just enough buzz to feel exciting while still allowing for conversation. It’s the kind of restaurant that works for almost any occasion: a weekday dinner that feels like a treat, a celebratory night out, or a cozy evening catching up with friends. You don’t feel rushed here. You’re encouraged to linger, and the menu makes that very easy.
The new fall offerings lean into comfort in the best possible way. The meal began with a soup that felt tailor-made for cooler evenings, smooth, rich, and deeply satisfying, with subtle warmth that builds slowly rather than overpowering the palate.
Paired with something crisp and cheesy for dipping, it was the kind of starter that immediately sets the tone and makes you slow down and enjoy each bite.
From there, the small plates continued to impress. A dish of tender clams arrived bathed in a savory, aromatic sauce, with bits of chorizo adding depth and spice. It’s the kind of dish where the bread becomes just as important as the seafood, used to soak up every bit of flavor.
Another standout came in the form of golden, cheese-filled croquettes that were crisp on the outside and indulgently creamy inside, disappearing from the table almost as soon as they arrived.
The entrées felt hearty and thoughtful without being heavy. One dish, built around slow-cooked meat and rice, arrived warm and comforting, layered with flavor and texture, rich but balanced, and deeply satisfying.
Another option featured beautifully cooked fish paired with traditional potatoes and a bright, citrusy sauce that cut through the richness just enough. Together, the dishes reflected a menu that understands how to blend bold flavors with restraint.
Dessert was where the seasonal influence truly shined.
A classic custard-style dessert was reimagined with fall flavors, topped with a delicate crackled sugar layer that added texture and sweetness. It felt nostalgic and familiar, and made it the perfect way to close out the meal without feeling overly indulgent.
Even the drinks echoed the season.
One cocktail leaned warm and smooth, with subtle sweetness and depth, while a non-alcoholic option offered something crisp and refreshing with just a hint of spice. Both paired beautifully with the cozy, inviting mood of the space.
By the end of the evening, it was clear why Bulla Gastrobar continues to be such a go-to. Its welcoming energy, thoughtfully crafted food, and atmosphere makes you want to stay just a little
longer, and the new menu proves their inventive and unique style when it comes to their classic and new dishes.
Bulla Gastrobar Coral Gables is located at 2500 Ponce de Leon in Coral Gables. For more information on this and other locations, visit bullagastrobar.com.
