Today we’d like to introduce you to Zuly Marfil De Barreat.
Hi Zuly, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Venezuelan and a dentist by profession. Due to the political situation in my country, we were forced to migrate to Miami thirteen years ago. Together with my husband, I decided to create a restaurant where we could welcome people in a warm, family-oriented way. We wanted to innovate and make guests feel that a restaurant is a combination of experiences—not only something that earns recognition for its food, but also something that pleasantly surprises you through its beverages, its cozy and beautifully decorated atmosphere, and the attentive service provided by our staff.
Our goal has always been to care for every detail so that we would be unforgettable and different. I focused on continuing to draw smiles on people’s faces, but this time through food and the complete experience you find when you visit Marfil Bistro. My role in the restaurant is to oversee all stages and areas of its operation, ensuring that it always maintains the high standards for which it was created. We have always selected the best team to work alongside me in achieving this vision.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been easy at all. First, because you arrive in a new country where you must adapt to a different culture, a new language, laws, and many challenges that were unfamiliar and demanding for us as we set out to build a restaurant from the ground up. We undertook the construction of a space that required a significant investment of both time and money, while I had to balance my work with motherhood and raising three young children.
Along the way, I had to learn about purchasing construction materials and finishes, navigating city permits, and then move on to creating menus, recruiting staff, finding food and beverage suppliers, and purchasing all the kitchen equipment and furniture required for a restaurant—without any professional guidance. Unfortunately, many people took advantage of our inexperience. What began as an entirely hands-on, trial-and-error process was always driven by a clear vision and the firm decision that, by working together as a united couple, we would achieve everything we set out to do. We learned in many ways, often the hard way.
A restaurant is filled with daily challenges; it is a profession that demands immense dedication and time. The days when most people are celebrating are the busiest days in this industry. Behind every dish served, there are many people working, and whenever someone goes to a restaurant, it is to enjoy a special moment—and we strive to make that moment unforgettable.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Marfil Bistro?
Marfil Bistro is a restaurant that has spent more than nine years creating exceptional culinary experiences in Doral. Many describe us as a hidden gem—once guests discover us, whether by chance or through a recommendation, they quickly become close friends of the house. They celebrate all of their most important occasions with us, knowing that at Marfil Bistro they will always impress their guests.
Anyone who appreciates great food and outstanding service immediately recognizes that we are the perfect place to create lasting memories. Our cuisine is prepared with fresh ingredients, every dish is made to order, and all of our spices and seasonings are crafted in-house by our chef—something true food lovers deeply appreciate. We pair our dishes and cocktails with striking presentations that turn every table into a show. Plates are served with fire, smoke, wood infusions, tableside sauce preparations, and many other surprises designed to innovate, stay in your memory, and make you want to return again and again.
In addition, we offer several private areas for celebrations or corporate meetings, as well as a large main hall featuring 360-degree video-mapping technology on all walls. This unique feature allows for corporate presentations on oversized screens and social events enhanced with immersive visuals that transform each gathering into a space limited only by your imagination. We provide full event-planning services, all food prepared and served fresh, and a complete full bar experience.
Any big plans?
Our vision is to continue positioning our brand as a symbol of quality while maintaining accessible pricing, allowing more people to discover and enjoy our experience. In the coming year, we plan to host more wine events for our guests, as we know they truly enjoy our themed wine tastings. We will also continue to innovate with new menu items and flavors, while further expanding our wine list with unique, authentic selections sourced from different parts of the world.
Pricing:
- 3 course Lunch Special $35
- 3 Courses Brunch $35 (Saturday-Sunday)
- Happy Hour, Drinks 2x $14 (the 7 days 4pm-7pm)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marfilbistro.com
- Instagram: @marfilbistro
- Facebook: @marfilbistro
Image Credits
Marfil Bistro
