Elia on the River: Miami's New Waterfront Culinary Oasis
Nestled along the scenic Miami River, Elia on the River by Aden Hospitality offers an unparalleled dining experience. This waterfront oasis combines stunning views with a meticulously curated menu that showcases a harmonious blend of Mediterranean flavors and locally sourced ingredients.
“The menu was designed to whisk our guests away to the warm shores of the Mediterranean, so we took the best coastal classics and recreated them with flair and fresh, locally sourced ingredients,” shares Engin Akdemir, Owner of Elia. “In true Mediterranean style, the dishes can be enjoyed al fresco on our bougainvillea-filled terrace, all while soaking in Miami’s breathtaking sunsets.”
A Menu That Tells a Story
Elia boasts a range of exquisite dishes, from burrata served with heirloom tomatoes and shaved truffles to lobster linguini, grilled lamb chops, and Tuscan ribeye. Guests can enjoy these dishes al fresco, arriving by land or boat, docking right in front of the restaurant. Designed by the renowned Saladino Design Studios, Elia’s ambiance evokes a sense of romance and nostalgia. Inspired by a tale of love and longing, the restaurant's story is hand-painted on all its walls, adding a unique and personal touch.
Aesthetic and Ambiance
“We wanted to recreate that light-hearted feeling you get when dining al fresco in Europe, so the entire restaurant opens up to the outdoors and the expansive, flower-covered terrace that sits right on the river,” says Engin Akdemir. Every decor element, from the imported Italian marbles to the velvet and rattan furniture, plays into this theme.
A Culinary Destination
Elia was created with the idea of being a culinary destination where both locals and visitors could feel welcome and enjoy the best of what Miami has to offer. The restaurant aims to be a warm and beautiful place where people can celebrate all their big and small moments over a remarkable meal.
Elia in Bal Harbour Shops
In addition to its riverfront location, Elia has also opened a venue in the posh Bal Harbour Shops. Among high-end stores like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Prada, and Tiffany & Co., Elia offers a comfortable, upscale environment with simple yet elegant fare. Executive chef Dimitri Karagiannis crafts a menu that appeals to health-minded diners and those seeking a sumptuous Mediterranean feast. The indoor dining room seats 75, while the outside patio accommodates 125 guests, providing a luxurious dining experience in both settings.
Global Influences
Proprietor Athanasios Barlos, a seasoned Greek restaurateur, has brought together an exceptional team for Elia. Consulting chefs Sergio Mei and Bernard Le Prince, along with general manager Juan Rochaix, contribute their expertise to create a diverse and innovative menu. Chef Dimitri Karagiannis, who splits his time between Athens and Miami, has developed a flavorful, robust menu featuring innovative salads, incredible seafood, poultry, and meat dishes, as well as authentic Greek delights.
A Flavorful Menu
Elia’s menu features a variety of soups, appetizers, salads, homemade pastas, risottos, and seafood dishes. Highlights include avgolemono, a classic Greek chicken soup, a shared meze platter, steamed mussels, a shaved, marinated artichoke salad, and tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms. The seafood offerings include Atlantic salmon wrapped in grape leaves, pan-seared tuna, and grilled swordfish and vegetable kabobs. The restaurant also boasts a fabulous raw bar with fresh indigenous and imported offerings, including sea urchin.
Conclusion
With its stunning locations, meticulously crafted menu, and inviting ambiance, Elia on the River and Elia in Bal Harbour Shops are poised to become Miami’s premier dining destinations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Elia promises an unforgettable culinary experience that celebrates the best of Mediterranean and local flavors.
