Paul and Neil Barraco found a way to bring excitement back to dining post-pandemic with The Governor, a modern diner they opened in 2021. This place serves creative dishes, from frittatas to Reubens. Next door, they opened Flamingo Drive Bar & Lounge in late 2024, focusing on South Floridian, Cuban, and Haitian cuisine.
Having spent most of their lives in Miami, the Barracos are experts in these flavors. Their fried Creole chicken stands out, mixing Haitian, Jamaican, and Midwestern influences. It’s a dish that showcases their culinary talents.
The fried Creole chicken features three juicy, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of Jamaican jerk paste, buttermilk, and spices. They use a gluten-free breading made from rice flour and cornstarch, which gives it a perfectly crispy texture. After frying, the chicken is topped with dehydrated cheddar powder, enhancing its umami flavor. The dish is served with apple pikliz, a Haitian slaw made of pickled cabbage, carrots, and scotch bonnet peppers. The Barracos add shaved apple for a touch of sweetness.
On the side, you get whipped sweet potatoes mixed with apple cider vinegar and spices, accompanied by a pool of apple-cinnamon hot sauce. This dish is a delicious introduction to what Flamingo Drive offers.
Experts say that the fusion of different culinary traditions not only reflects a growing trend in American dining but also showcases the resilience and creativity of chefs. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 76% of consumers say they enjoy trying new flavors and dishes.
For those interested in exploring diverse cuisines, Flamingo Drive is a great place to start.
Flamingo Drive Bar & Lounge, 227 Main St., Milford, 513-444-4190. Learn more at Flamingo Drive.
This content was inspired by Keith Pandolfi’s food adventures across Greater Cincinnati. Sign up for his newsletter at At the Table.
Originally featured in the Cincinnati Enquirer, explore more about how Flamingo Drive adds a unique twist to dining: Discover more.
Source link
fried chicken, Flamingo Drive Bar & Lounge, apple cider vinegar, chicken thighs, Flamingo Drive, Midwestern, Haitian cuisine, Creole chicken
