The grand opening of AVA MediterrAegean in Coconut Grove on Saturday, November 22nd introduces a new chapter for the Riviera Dining Group (RDG), presenting a dining experience that intertwines Greek heritage with contemporary elegance. AVA MediterrAegean, a restaurant and exclusive members’ club, draws from the rich tapestry of Greek culture. The ambiance of Coconut Grove complements this vision. “Coconut Grove has an authentic rhythm: creative, relaxed, and sophisticated all at once. This aligns beautifully with AVA’s ethos,” reflects Galy. “Both celebrate art, nature, and community in a way that mirrors the Mediterranean’s emphasis on life and togetherness.”
Riviera Dining Group (RDG): Redefining Mediterranean Dining
Since launching MILA Miami in 2020, RDG has continued to innovate with venues like AVA MediterrAegean in Winter Park (2022), CASA NEOS (2024), and CLAUDIE (2025). Based in Miami, RDG has gained prominence in the local dining scene by presenting captivating culinary concepts.
The opening celebration featured distinguished guests and RDG’s innovative executive team, including Founder & CEO Gregory Galy; Partner & Chief Brand Officer Marine Giron-Galy; Partner & Head of Culinary Chef Michaël Michaelidis; Partner & Chief Financial Officer Fabien Guardiola; Partner & Chief Sales Officer Michael Ridard; and Partner & Chief People Officer Robert Blasi.
Inside the Grand Opening of AVA MediterrAegean Coconut Grove
Renowned designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán created an enchanting space at AVA. This partnership reflects a deep-rooted understanding of restaurant aesthetics and function.
Natural textures, luminous marble accents, and lush greenery forge an elegant atmosphere, echoing the Aegean’s cultural essence. Guests will revel in a design that harmonizes interior comfort with an idyllic coastal vibe. Galy emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail: “Every item is custom-designed, from the sculptural seating to the hand-finished textured walls that capture sunlight. Each choice serves a purpose in enhancing the environment. Guests will notice a careful selection of materials—tiles, limestone, plaster, brushed metals, and soft upholstery—that change with the light throughout the day. It is bright and airy by day, intimate and inviting by evening.”
The three bar areas serve distinct roles in the venue. According to Galy, the main bar injects refined energy into the dining room with an elevated mixology program rooted in Mediterranean tradition. The second outdoor bar reflects Miami’s lively ambiance, integrating elegance with the warmth of the Grove. The most exclusive is the members’ bar, designed for a more personalized experience.
The atmosphere balances sophistication with relaxation, showcasing RDG’s characteristic focus on experiential dining. The thoughtfully designed space is intended to foster connections. Galy notes the importance of light in the restaurant, which transforms from warm natural daylight for lunch to golden tones that settle into a candlelit ambiance by night.
RE:KÜLTURA, a celebrated Greek folktronic music group, provided a performance that resonated with AVA’s fresh interpretation of Greek traditions. Their lively set enriched the atmosphere for the launch celebration.
Guests traversed an array of culinary stations that showcased AVA’s refined Greek identity. The offerings included caviar and seafood displays, an intricate ice sculpture, a tuna-carving station, and generous platters of Cinco Jotas and mezze. The open kitchen featured made-to-order pizzas and risottos, allowing guests to experience AVA’s unique style, while a dessert station and circulating canapés delivered a classic and satisfying conclusion to the evening.
AVA MM Members Club: A Unique RDG Concept
Nestled within the venue, the AVA MM Members Club represents RDG’s latest luxury initiative, offering an exclusive haven for its members. This club is distinguished by a Japanese-inspired culinary program, refined cocktail service, personal cigar and wine lockers, and various cultural experiences, such as chef-led dinners and intimate tastings.
Galy remarks, “Our membership space embodies the essence of the AVA lifestyle, providing a place for locals to unwind, connect, and be part of a community centered around exceptional food and shared experiences.” The concept emphasizes RDG’s dedication not only to dining but to cultivating a lifestyle space that transcends conventional eating establishments.
Opening Details
AVA MediterrAegean Coconut Grove officially opens to the public on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025, at 2889 McFarlane Road. Dinner service will be available Wednesday through Sunday.
To make reservations, visit the restaurant’s website. For exclusive updates and experiences, follow @RivieraDiningGroup and @AVACoconutGrove.
