Cariño

Cariño is an intimate, Latin-inspired fine-dining restaurant and one-MICHELIN-star concept that presents meticulously crafted dishes highlighting flavors and ingredients from across Latin America and creating elevated, surprising presentations. The restaurant earned a MICHELIN star within its first year of operation. Beverage Director Ray Medina emphasizes agave spirits and Mexican beers, and Sommelier Richie Ribando has developed a Central- and South-American–focused wine program. The menu changes with seasonality and availability. The dining room is intimate and deeply personal, described as an immersive space that tells stories rooted in family and a love of craft. The front-of-house operates with warmth, precision and a small, highly choreographed team. The kitchen melds traditional Latin American ingredients with contemporary fine-dining techniques. Executive Chef and owner Norman Fenton trained at the Art Institute of Michigan, gained experience with the Alinea Group, The Aviary and MICHELIN-starred Schwa where he rose to Chef de Cuisine, and traveled extensively through Mexico in 2019, drawing inspiration from Mexico City, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Michoacán, Monterrey and Tulum; he partnered with Karen Young to convert the former Brass Heart into his first chef-owner venture, opening Cariño in December 2023. Specialties include the Latin-inspired tasting menu and Taco Omakase, Aguachile (Ora King Salmon), Huitlacoche Ravioli with Sweet Corn and Truffle, Black Cod with Mole Amarillo and Tacos Dorados (Chicken Liver, Adobo).