Celebrity Chef Opens Israeli Open-Fire Restaurant in South Beach Miami

Israeli celebrity chef Eyal Shani is expanding his presence in South Beach with the introduction of Naked Tomato, a new dining concept located at the Moxy South Beach in Miami.

The restaurant is scheduled to officially open its doors on May 14, 2026. The concept is designed as an ingredient-first expression of Shani’s cooking philosophy, which focuses on a devotion to vegetables, fresh produce and communal dining experiences.

Naked Tomato draws inspiration from the flavors of Israeli roadside grills, utilizing open-fire cooking to prepare its menu. Offerings include Israeli-style skewers and mezze, with a specific culinary focus described as tomato worship.

The venue is intended to provide a high-energy atmosphere, featuring a full bar and a lounge area to complement the fire-roasted cuisine.

Expanding a Global Portfolio

The opening of Naked Tomato marks the latest addition to a global portfolio that now includes more than 50 restaurants. Shani’s ventures span multiple international hubs, including Tel Aviv, New York, Paris, London, Singapore, Melbourne, and Las Vegas.

The Miami expansion is not limited to a single concept. Earlier in 2026, Shani opened Bella at the Liberty Park Hotel in Miami Beach. While Naked Tomato focuses on Israeli grill traditions, Bella represents Shani’s first venture into Italian cuisine.

Bella is described as a tribute to Southern Italy and Mediterranean philosophy. The restaurant’s branding centers on a fictional persona named Bella, who serves as the imagined force behind the kitchen’s time-honored Italian dishes and handmade pasta.

Culinary Philosophy and Influence

Shani, who was born in Jerusalem and gained international recognition through his restaurant HaSalon, is known for his specific approach to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. His work frequently emphasizes the use of fire and the elevation of produce over complex processing.

At Naked Tomato, this philosophy manifests in the use of fire-roasted skewers and a menu that prioritizes the natural flavors of vegetables. This approach mirrors the roadside grill culture of Israel, bringing a casual yet refined energy to the South Beach hospitality scene.

By establishing multiple distinct concepts within Miami Beach—ranging from the Italian-inspired Bella to the grill-focused Naked Tomato—Shani is diversifying his footprint in the Florida market, catering to different dining moods while maintaining his signature emphasis on fresh, Mediterranean-rooted ingredients.