AVA MediterrAegean Opens Flagship Coconut Grove Restaurant with Immersive Mediterranean Concept
- camilarosiaz
- Nov 28
- 2 min read
Riviera Dining Group will open its flagship AVA MediterrAegean this November in Coconut Grove, expanding the brand’s modern Greek agora concept into one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods. The new location follows the success of the Winter Park outpost and introduces AVA MM, a discreet members-only extension offering exclusive culinary and cultural programming.
Founded by Gregory Galy, Riviera Dining Group—known for MILA Miami, CASA NEOS, and CLAUDIE—designed the Coconut Grove flagship as a multi-sensory experience where cuisine, design, and atmosphere converge.
Culinary Program
The kitchen is helmed by RDG Partner and Head of Culinary Michaël Michaelidis and Executive Chef Frédéric Aumeunier, whose background includes work at Michelin-starred restaurants such as Per Se, La Maison Pic, and Pineapple & Pearls. Aumeunier brings a Mediterranean sensibility to AVA, shaping a menu inspired by the Cycladic region and rooted in simplicity, freshness, and technique.
The menu combines modern interpretations with traditional flavors, highlighting seafood-focused dishes, seasonal vegetables, premium proteins, and shared plates. Selections include Aegean Tuna Ceviche, Mediterranean Seabass Carpaccio, Lobster Pasta, and a 32oz Tomahawk. Signature dishes such as whole Branzino Spetziota and Prawns Kadaifi emphasize conviviality, while inventive mezze and salads bring depth through elements like jasmine-flavored pears, rose water, and fig leaf vierge.
Design and Atmosphere
Designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violán, AVA Coconut Grove channels Greek island minimalism through a Miami lens. The restaurant is divided into three interconnected environments: a coastal terrace, a sculptural dining room, and an intimate members’ club.
Materials such as plaster, limestone, travertine, and rattan create a natural Mediterranean foundation, enhanced by handcrafted ceramics, custom millwork, and curated artworks. A rainforest marble bar serves as the visual centerpiece, while a palette of whites and sand tones reinforces a serene, sun-washed effect. The terrace features linen canopies and lush vegetation, and the members’ club incorporates bronze accents, wine and cigar lockers, and a more intimate layout.
AVA MM Members’ Club
The members-only space offers an atmosphere distinct from the main dining room. Its design blends indoor and outdoor elements with subtle lighting and natural materials. The culinary program diverges as well, focusing on a Japanese-inspired menu crafted exclusively for AVA MM, along with tailored wine selections and rare vintages.
Members also have access to curated cultural programming, including chef-led dinners, tastings, and additional private activations.
Riviera Dining Group
Since debuting with MILA Miami in 2020, RDG has expanded its portfolio across Florida, establishing a presence built on Mediterranean influences, high design, and immersive hospitality. The group incorporates exclusive members’ experiences within its properties, creating a cohesive lifestyle community alongside its dining concepts.
Operations
Location: 2889 McFarlane Rd, Coconut Grove, Miami, FL
Hours: Wed: 5 p.m.–11 p.m. | Thu: 5 p.m.–12:15 a.m. | Fri–Sat: 4 p.m.–12:30 a.m. | Sun: 5 p.m.–11 p.m.
Website: AvaMediterrAegean.com
Instagram: AVAMediterrAegean