Palmetto Bay, Florida – A highly anticipated new restaurant, Old Cutler Inn, has officially opened its doors at 16800 Old Cutler Road, marking a significant moment for the local dining scene. Positioned directly across from the historic Deering Estate, this new establishment is more than just a place to eat; it’s a spiritual successor to Snowden’s, a beloved neighborhood landmark that defined community gathering in the area for decades.
A Nod to History, A Vision for the Future
The Old Cutler Inn occupies the former space of a BB&T bank building, but its roots stretch back nearly a century. The original Snowden’s restaurant, established in the 1920s by George Snowden on land acquired from industrialist Charles Deering, was a cherished local institution, famous for its Friday fish fries and its role as a central hub for the community. The name Old Cutler Inn itself also carries local history, having been used for a previous sports bar. The new iteration seeks to honor this rich past while delivering a modern, elevated dining experience.
Behind this exciting venture are real estate investor and developer Drew Dorsy of Bindor, and hospitality operator Benjamin Pascarella, founder of Ciotola Restaurant Group. Both partners share a deep connection to the area, having grown up nearby. Dorsy, who hails from Pinecrest, recognized a long-standing void in Palmetto Bay’s restaurant offerings, often described as a “restaurant desert” with limited quality sit-down options within a convenient distance. Pascarella echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the deep nostalgia for the Old Cutler Inn name within the community. Their collective vision is to create a space that serves as a “home away from home”—a vibrant gathering place for neighbors, a destination for celebrations, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of Palmetto Bay.
A Culinary Experience Centered on Wood-Fired Excellence
The culinary heart of the Old Cutler Inn is its prominent wood-fired stove, around which an imaginative and diverse menu has been meticulously curated. Diners can expect a Contemporary American menu with an exquisite flavor profile, designed to cater to a wide array of tastes. Highlights include a curated raw bar, a variety of seafood dishes, the popular wahoo fish dip, and wood-fired American mains such as Korean barbecue short ribs, succulent filet mignon, and classic flatiron steak frites. Handmade sourdough flatbreads and pizzas are also prominent features, along with an impressive selection of small plates.
Aiming for both quality and accessibility, menu offerings are designed to be family-friendly, with prices ranging from approximately $12 up to $50+ for premium butcher’s cuts. The restaurant also boasts a beautiful and impressive bar, serving craft cocktails, an expansive selection of whiskey and tequila, and a variety of popular beers.
Thoughtful Design and Versatile Spaces
Spanning 4,500 square feet, the Old Cutler Inn offers a flexible indoor-outdoor layout, accommodating around 125 guests. The interior space seats approximately 60, while a dog-friendly patio provides seating for an additional 70. The design concept embraces “timeless accessibility,” drawing inspiration from nostalgic Old Miami charm and classic neighborhood institutions found in cities like New York, Boston, and Denver. The renovation of the former bank building thoughtfully incorporated original architectural elements, including tongue-and-groove ceilings, a full-length skylight, and warm wood beams, resulting in a modern yet inviting ambiance.
Beyond traditional dining, the Old Cutler Inn has future plans to enhance convenience for the community. A café-style window bar on the patio will offer Perla Coffee and fresh grab-and-go items, ideal for morning commutes. The restaurant also intends to introduce pick-up and delivery services in the coming weeks. Ample parking is available on the property and nearby, with valet service provided as needed.
A Community Anchor for a Growing Miami Enclave
Initially, the Old Cutler Inn will operate for dinner service, with hours from 4-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 4-11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. However, plans are already in motion to expand operations to include lunch and weekend brunch in the near future, as well as full breakfast service. The establishment expects to employ between 40 to 45 team members, contributing to local job growth.
The reopening of the Old Cutler Inn is more than just a trending restaurant opening in Miami; it’s a strategic move to address a long-underserved market in Palmetto Bay. With the village’s efforts to create a more walkable community, the new Old Cutler Inn is poised to become a central gathering point. Its proximity to the historic Deering Estate also presents opportunities for catering events and private gatherings, such as rehearsal dinners.
Drew Dorsy and Benjamin Pascarella are not merely launching a new business; they are revitalizing a piece of Palmetto Bay’s soul, creating a dynamic space where community, history, and exceptional hospitality converge. This news marks a fresh chapter for the area, promising to transform the local dining experience and strengthen the neighborhood’s vibrant character.
