The team behind Macchialina – one of Miami Beach’s top Italian restaurants – has opened “Fluke,’’ featuring an elevated oyster and crudo bar with a bold cocktail program.
Located in Macchialina’s original indoor space on Alton Road, Fluke is inspired by the travels and epicurean adventures of Executive Chef Michael Pirolo, and managing partners Jennifer Chaefsky and Jacqueline Pirolo, Fluke blends the simplicity of quality seafood with a laid-back, self-service format, offering a new way to dine in a familiar space.
“Twelve years ago, we never could have imagined the success Macchialina would achieve,” Michael Pirolo said. “What started as ‘the little restaurant that wouldn’t quit’ turned into a 5,600-square foot expansion with a newfound opportunity to build on our roots and bring Fluke to life. This stroke of luck is how we landed on the name ‘Fluke’ – it’s a celebration of those happy coincidences that aligned perfectly to make this exciting new chapter possible.”
At Fluke, the cavernous warmth and timeless exposed brick of Macchialina are preserved, while a moody black marble bar adds a striking refresh. This transformation to an oyster bar concept is evident in both the menu and the ambiance – dimly lit, effortlessly elegant, where freshly shucked oysters and chilled martinis set the tone.
The self-service model invites guests to mark their selections on petite paper menus, offering a laid-back, interactive dining experience with elevated eats and perfectly paired libations.
Cocktail servers deliver drinks while the kitchen, led by chef de cuisine and Uchi alum, Trevor Zwaan, focuses on a rotating selection of crudo preparations and crispy-fried crustaceans.
Overseeing day-to-day operations is manager Samantha Harris, who joined the Macchialina team in November 2023.
The menu includes with tomato guazzetto and baby caponata, Madai (Japanese Sea Bream) with plum vinaigrette and Thai chili, and Branzino with artichoke gremolata, citrus oil, and preserved lemon. Fried favorites include rosemary salt-dusted Hand-Cut Fries with senape sauce, Fried Mussels Marinara, and Fried Shrimp with artichoke remoulade.
The Big Macch Burger, previously a coveted off-menu special, has a permanent place on the menu – featuring – Fontina cheese, mushrooms, and absolutely no ketchup.
“We wanted to do seafood the way we love to eat it—simple, high-quality, and always inspired.” Michael Pirolo said. “We’re bringing that same philosophy to Fluke; it’s all about letting the ingredients shine without overcomplicating things. Miami Beach has incredible access to fresh seafood, and we’re excited to give it the love and respect it deserves, but with our own spin.”