Greek Glamour Arrives in Coconut Grove: Riviera Dining Group Unveils AVA MediterrAegean

The grand opening of AVA MediterrAegean in Coconut Grove on Saturday, November 22nd, means that the Riviera Dining Group (RDG) is about to introduce Miami’s tastemakers to a world where Greek heritage meets contemporary luxury. AVA MediterrAegean is the new restaurant and private members’ club that draws inspiration from the unique cultural flavors and rich Greek culture. When describing the restaurant’s location in Coconut Grove the atmosphere is said to fit perfectly. “Coconut Grove has a very authentic rhythm: creative, relaxed, and sophisticated all at once. That aligns perfectly with AVA’s mindset. The Grove celebrates art, nature, and community the same way the Mediterranean celebrates life and togetherness. There is a shared appreciation for time, conversation, and the beauty of simplicity.”

Riviera Dining Group (RDG): A New Era of Mediterranean Hospitality

Since debuting MILA Miami in 2020, RDG has expanded its approach to dining culture with dazzling openings, including AVA MediterrAegean in Winter Park (2022), CASA NEOS (2024), and CLAUDIE (2025). Being based in Miami, RDG has quickly become well known in South Florida’s dining landscape, with each concept offering a captivating approach to hospitality. 

The opening celebration was skillfully crafted and welcomed attendance by esteemed guests and RDG’s visionary 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 Dazzling Grand Opening of AVA MediterrAegean Coconut Grove

Designed by renowned visionary Lázaro Rosa-Violán, AVA’s new space enchants from the first step through its doors. The partnership between RDG and Lázaro Rosa-Violan is one with a rich restaurant history. When speaking about Rosa-Violan 

The room includes natural textures, glowing marble accents, and abundant greenery to create an elegant environment reminiscent of the restaurant’s ode to the culture of the Aegean. Guests can expect a balance between the indoors and coastal paradise. The attention to deail truly sets the space apart, Gregory Galy explains that “Every piece was custom-created, from sculptural seating and lighting inspired by the Aegean horizon to textured walls hand-finished to catch the sun’s glow. Nothing is decorative for decoration’s sake; every choice contributes to atmosphere and comfort. Guests should notice the materials: the mix of tiles and limestone, plaster, brushed metals, and soft upholstery (that change tone with the light throughout the day). It is bright and coastal by day, intimate and seductive by night. 

The 3 bar areas within the property play a central role Gregory Galy notes that the interior bar anchors the dining room with “refined energy and an elevated mixology program” rooted in Mediterranean history. The second outdoor bar reflects Miami’s vibrant social atmosphere, “seamlessly blending open-air elegance with the warmth of the Grove”. The final bar is the members’ bar that’s the most exclusive of the three offering a discreet individualized experience.

The ambience is both refined and relaxed at once, mastering the signature RDG dynamic that has become synonymous with experiential dining. The shared space is met with an intentionality that focusses on the power to bring people together. Galy describes that the light in the restaurant plays a major role, that there is a warm and natural daylight for lunch, golden tones that evolve into candlelit dimmer lighting at night. 

RE:KÜLTURA, a well-known Greek folktronic music group recognized throughout the Mediterranean, was brought in exclusively for the event and delivered a performance that reflected AVA’s modern approach to Greek tradition. The musical element maintained the high energy, engaging atmosphere for the official restaurant launch celebration. 

Guests drifted through thoughtfully curated culinary stations that highlighted AVA’s elevated Greek identity. The culinary display of the evening included caviar and seafood displays, an intricate ice sculpture, a tuna-carving station, and generous offerings of Cinco Jotas and mezze. The open kitchen showcased made-to-order pizza and risotto stations, immersing guests in AVA’s distinctive charm, while a dessert display and passing canapés provided a refined, classic, and sweet finish to the evening.

The AVA MM Members Club Is a Riviera Dining Group Masterpiece

Located discreetly within the restaurant’s property is the AVA MM Members Club. The club represents RDG’s newest luxury concept and offers an exclusive, curated space for members. The club includes a Japanese-inspired culinary program, elevated mixology/cocktail service, and personal cigar and wine lockers, alongside a rotating calendar of cultural experiences; members can enjoy chef-led dinners to personal tastings. 

Galy states that “our membership space extends that spirit, a refined expression of the AVA lifestyle, where locals can unwind, network, and belong. Ultimately, our vision is to enrich Coconut Grove by bringing together people who share a love for beautiful food, soulful experiences, and the simple joy of being together.” The private club reveal signaled RDG’s commitment not only to hospitality but to crafting a lifestyle space that transcends traditional dining. 

Opening Details

AVA MediterrAegean Coconut Grove opens to the public on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025, located at 2889 McFarlane Road. The restaurant will welcome guests for dinner Wednesday through Sunday.

For reservations, visit the restaurant’s website. Follow @RivieraDiningGroup and @AVACoconutGrove for exclusive updates and experiences.