In the heart of historic Overtown, where the air often carries the savory scent of smoked ribs and the legacy of the “Harlem of the South,” a new kind of star power recently walked through the doors of 1300 NW 3rd Avenue. Shilo Sanders, the high-profile safety and social media powerhouse, took a break from the spotlight to shine a light on a local gem: Lil Greenhouse Grill.
What started as a hunt for the city’s best post-Thanksgiving soul food turned into a masterclass in how modern influencers can uplift small businesses. For Sanders, the visit was deeply personal.
“I miss my mama food, bro, honestly,” Sanders told his audience in a now-viral YouTube video. “I’m trying to see what’s the closest thing to it.”
He found his answer in Chef Karim Bryant and co-owner Nicole Gates. The duo has transformed a former food truck into what is widely considered Miami’s #1 soul food destination. Bryant, a 30-year culinary veteran with a resume featuring 5-star icons like Capital Grille and Prime 112, brings a “gourmet” edge to traditional comfort food.
“They say this the number one soul food here,” Sanders noted upon entering.
“Hey, we try,” the staff replied. “We serve it with love all the time.”
“With love. That’s the number one most important ingredient,” Sanders fired back.
While the restaurant is currently thriving—hosting icons like Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King—the road hasn’t always been easy. Lil Greenhouse Grill has navigated the challenges of a neighborhood once fragmented by highway construction and the economic pressures of the pandemic. Today, the restaurant stands as a pillar of Overtown’s revitalization.
For Gates and Bryant, a visit from someone with Sanders’ reach isn’t just a “review”—it’s an economic engine. Sanders described his experience as feeling like he was “in Mississippi” despite being in the heart of Miami. Reflecting on the visit, Nicole Gates described Shilo as “gracious,” noting that the team did not expect a full review video and was deeply “impressed” by the high quality of the final production.
“I come out of PR of 31 years, so I’m always prepared,” Gates said of the viral moment. “We’re proud of the fact that the service, quality, and presentation that any celebrity gets when they walk in Lil Greenhouse Grill is the same quality and service any resident would get.”
Sanders’ “Internet Aunties” and millions of followers saw more than just a meal; they saw a young athlete using his platform to support Black-owned excellence. From praising the “10 out of 10” plating to joking about the $500 value of their Sakatumi Cake, Sanders leaned into his role as a community hype-man.
“I’m not just capping for a camera. This is actually good,” Sanders said between bites of Applewood-smoked wings. “This place going to be packed. I promise you… Pull up. Y’all got to try this.”
The impact was felt immediately. “Shilo just put us on the map,” Gates told him during his visit. She later added, “We’ve always had a constant flow of business, but now we’re seeing different people.”
In a city known for its diverse culinary palette, Gates understands that staying on top requires more than just viral fame. It requires “quality, consistency, and good customer service.”
“Quality is important,” Gates emphasized. “We are in a very competitive market when you talk about ethnic food… diasporic, Caribbean, Latin market… all the ethnicities that make up the vast, beautiful Miami.”
By showcasing the Dream Fire Fried Shrimp, Seafood Cakes, and the signature “Flop” drink, Sanders introduced a historic community to a fresh generation of diners—reminding them that in Overtown, excellence is always on the menu.
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