Photos by James Jackman
Florida lobster
Emelina, an intimate restaurant that seats just 16 at its chef’s counter, opened earlier this year in West Palm Beach’s up-and-coming Flamingo Park district.
The single tasting menu reimagines Cuban flavors through global technique, Florida seasonality and the deeply personal histories of husband-and-wife chefs Osmel González and Camila Salazar, who named the place for González’s grandmother.
After earning acclaim for their Michelin-starred Miami pop-up EntreNos, González and Salazar brought their talents to West Palm Beach, drawing on experience gained while living in Spain, California and Japan to create a menu that feels nostalgic yet new.
“Emelina is our way of honoring where we come from while rooting ourselves in this place — working with local producers, telling personal stories through food and creating the kind of intimate, intentional experience we’ve always dreamed of sharing with our guests here,” Salazar says.
The rotating seasonal menu has included dishes such as Florida blue crab with ají dulce and citrus, Charcoal-grilled Cobia with plantain miso, and a delicate pastelito-inspired course layered with seasonal fruit and cultured cream. Each plate reflects a commitment to local farmers and fishermen.
Emelina is located at 424 Park Place, Unit 101, in West Palm Beach. For more information, visit emelinawpb.com.
Coconut pre-dessert