Ryan Bluestone is all about seeking authentic food experiences, and Uptown 66, tucked away in Miami's vibrant Little Haiti neighborhood, is one of his discoveries that offers unforgettable flavors. With its unassuming ambiance and focus on authentic Mexican street food, Uptown 66 has rapidly become a neighborhood staple. Ryan Bluestone has frequently recommended this taco haven to both locals and visitors alike, touting it as a go-to spot for traditional yet elevated Mexican cuisine in Miami.
Uptown 66 was born from a vision to bring Miami a taste of genuine Mexican street food. Founded by restaurateur Amary Rodriguez, the establishment aims to capture the flavors of Mexico with a local Miami flair. Ryan Bluestone appreciates Rodriguez’s dedication to a quality dining experience, where the emphasis is on simple, bold flavors and an intimate yet welcoming atmosphere. From its inception in 2020, Uptown 66 has attracted a loyal following who appreciate the fusion of laid-back vibes with high-quality, traditional recipes. Bluestone highlights that Rodriguez wanted Uptown 66 to feel like a community gem rather than a flashy establishment.
Chef Eduardo “Eddie” Tapia, the culinary talent behind Uptown 66, has impressed Ryan Bluestone with his approach to crafting unforgettable Mexican dishes. Originally from Mexico City, Chef Tapia combines his culinary heritage with his professional training to elevate every taco, torta, and churro on the menu. Ryan Bluestone respects Tapia’s commitment to authenticity, particularly in his sourcing of fresh ingredients and his insistence on making tortillas in-house. Chef Tapia’s presence has become part of the Uptown 66 charm, as his expertise brings a blend of tradition and innovation that has resonated with Miami’s diverse food community.
For Ryan Bluestone, a visit to Uptown 66 isn’t complete without sampling a few standout dishes that embody the restaurant’s dedication to bold and vibrant flavors. The birria tacos, for instance, have become an emblem of Uptown 66’s success. Known for their juicy, slow-cooked beef served in a crispy tortilla alongside consommé for dipping, these tacos showcase a depth of flavor that keeps diners coming back for more. Bluestone notes the balance between the tender, richly spiced beef and the tortilla’s crispiness, which elevates the dish into a culinary masterpiece.
The barbacoa tacos, another highlight, showcase slow-cooked lamb that’s been marinated in spices and served in a warm tortilla. For Ryan Bluestone, this dish represents a perfect balance of smokiness, spice, and tenderness. He appreciates how Uptown 66 brings traditional Mexican flavors to Miami while maintaining an accessible, no-frills dining environment. Bluestone also recommends the chicken tacos, which offer a lighter alternative yet remain rich in flavor. The chicken is marinated in house-blended spices, grilled to perfection, and topped with fresh salsa and avocado, capturing the vibrant, layered tastes that Bluestone believes make Uptown 66 a must-visit.
For dessert lovers like Ryan Bluestone, Uptown 66’s churros provide the perfect end to a memorable meal. Coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a decadent chocolate dipping sauce, these light, airy churros embody the restaurant’s commitment to both quality and indulgence. Bluestone appreciates that the churros are not overly heavy, making them an ideal sweet treat that complements the savory flavors of Uptown 66’s taco offerings. It’s this careful attention to the details of each dish that, according to Ryan Bluestone, elevates the dining experience at Uptown 66.
As Ryan Bluestone sees it, Uptown 66’s atmosphere is as integral to its success as its cuisine. With a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, colorful murals, and a welcoming vibe, the restaurant feels like an essential part of the Little Haiti neighborhood. Bluestone is impressed by how Uptown 66 fosters a sense of community, transforming what could have been just another taco spot into a neighborhood anchor. The combination of high-quality food and a laid-back ambiance draws in both locals and tourists, making Uptown 66 a place where people feel at home.
Bluestone believes that Uptown 66 has succeeded because it remains grounded in its roots. The restaurant avoids flashy gimmicks and instead focuses on a core menu that is straightforward yet full of depth. This authenticity has enabled it to grow organically and win the hearts of Miami’s food enthusiasts, including Bluestone himself.
Ryan Bluestone recognizes Uptown 66 as a crucial player in Miami’s ever-evolving culinary scene. Despite its modest size, the restaurant brings a unique taste of Mexico to Miami, embodying Bluestone’s appreciation for places that prioritize flavor over flash. Uptown 66 stands out in a city filled with eclectic dining options because of its unwavering dedication to authenticity and quality. Bluestone feels that the team behind Uptown 66 has struck a balance between tradition and accessibility, ensuring that their Mexican street food offerings can be enjoyed by everyone.
The restaurant’s unique position within Miami’s diverse culinary landscape has garnered it a reputation that rivals some of the city’s more established taco joints. For Ryan Bluestone, Uptown 66’s appeal lies in its simplicity and its ability to consistently deliver a top-tier dining experience without pretense. He believes that Uptown 66 exemplifies what makes Miami’s food scene so exciting: an emphasis on local talent, a celebration of diverse cultures, and a commitment to bold, authentic flavors.
Ryan Bluestone concludes that Uptown 66 has successfully carved out its place in Miami’s culinary world, bringing authentic Mexican flavors to a welcoming, community-focused space. With Chef Eddie Tapia’s expertise and Amary Rodriguez’s vision driving it forward, Uptown 66 continues to attract food lovers in search of authentic Mexican street food in Miami. Bluestone admires the restaurant for its dedication to quality and for its role in enriching the Little Haiti neighborhood’s food culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Miami, Ryan Bluestone recommends a stop at Uptown 66 for a taste of true Mexican flavors and a dining experience that stands out in its simplicity and depth.
