Bakaló Mykonos: A Greek Haven on West Avenue

In June, we celebrate and recognize Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month in honor of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. The LGBT+ History Month 2025 Theme is Activism and Social Change. In honor of LGBTQ Pride month, we are highlighting Bakaló, a Greek restaurant located on West Avenue owned by Nikos Nanou and Egidio Guerreri.

What is the history behind Bakaló Mykonos?

It all began in 2010 when we decided to open a restaurant in Mykonos, Greece. We served fresh, simple, and classic Greek food and attracting A-listers like Sofía Vergara, Gloria Estefan, Calvin Klein, and other notables. The restaurant is only opened during high peak season in Greece which is October thru March.  During the rest of the year, we traveled many times to Miami Beach and fell in love with the City. We decided it was time to bring a piece of Mykones to Miami Beach, so we opened a second location of Bakaló Mykonos, on West Avenue in 2022.  

Why did you choose Miami Beach?

Miami Beach was a no-brainer as our second location since both are beachside destinations that share a rich architecture, history, and culture making them an artist-community island that has long inspired writers, photographers, and designers so much more than the perceived “party cities.”

How would you describe the atmosphere at your restaurant?

Bakaló draws inspiration from the Mykonos location with an authentic and aesthetically pleasing environment. The decor is inspired by the old time Greek bistrots, or “Bakalotavernes,” that populated the harbors of the Greek cities with delicate retro decorative touches that create a cozy and friendly atmosphere, and 50s and 60s original posters discovered in Athens’ flea markets. The open kitchen allows patrons to feel and share the energy of the chefs at work, and the outside seating area reminiscent of the beautiful Greek isle, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy the street feeling and alfresco dining.

What makes your menu stand out in comparison to other restaurants?

A key pillar of the Bakaló Miami Beach menu is the “Mediterranean diet” featuring olive oil and organic ingredients, best sourced fresh products (preferably from small producers) and ingredients imported as much as possible directly from Greece and the Mediterranean. All dishes are prepared daily on the premises using new techniques that preserve flavors and aromas and served family style. Fish, shellfish, meat and vegetarian preparations are equally present. A good number of mezes and main courses, ideal for sharing, make the dining experience a unique journey to the aromas and flavors of the Mediterranean through every mouthful.

What are some of your favorite dishes?

Seabass Carpaccio orchestrates a symphony of flavors — delicate tarama, crisp fennel, zesty lemon dressing, crunchy carob rusk, and an aromatic dill oil drizzle — culminating in a true Greek masterpiece. The Lobster Giouvetsi presents a succulent fusion of orzo pasta, delicate tomato sauce, decadent manouri cheese, and a garnish of aromatic dill oil, crowned with a hint of lime zest, guaranteeing a Greek dining experience like no other. Lastly, experience the rich layers of flavor in the Moussaka, a savory dance of succulent beef ragu, grilled eggplant, potato, and a velvety bechamel, a delectable fusion of Greek comfort.

What are some of your favorite dessert dishes?

Greek desserts are sure to fill your heart with warmth and are the perfect example of Mediterranean desserts with many healthy and flavor-rich ingredients. A favorite at our Miami Beach location, Bakaló Bougatsa is a heavenly treat featuring golden, crispy pastry pillows filled with velvety vanilla custard, crowned by an exquisite sprinkle of cinnamon, a dessert not to be missed. Another sweet finale is their Portokalopita, a luscious orange syrup cake served with a dollop of Greek Kaimaki ice cream, promising a delectable Greek dessert experience that will transport your taste buds to Mediterranean bliss.

What would you like to say to the Miami Beach residents and tourists visiting your restaurant?

We are thrilled to bring the essence of Mykonos to the vibrant shores of Miami Beach through Bakaló. Our journey has been an act of love towards the rich tapestry of Greek cuisine and the diaspora it represents. We aimed to create not just a restaurant but a cultural bridge connecting two cosmopolitan beachside destinations with a shared passion for history, architecture, authentic flavors and most importantly joy of life. Bakaló is a culmination of our diverse experiences, a celebration of the Mediterranean diet and the renowned Greek hospitality tradition and an invitation for patrons to embark on a culinary voyage that transcends borders. Every dish is a tribute to tradition, a fusion of passion, and an ode to the enchanting spirit of both Mykonos and Miami Beach.

Bakaló is located at 959 West Avenue, Suite 3, Miami Beach, FL 33139. It is open for dinner 5M - 10PM Tuesday to Sunday.

 

WEBSITE / SOCIAL MEDIA

Website: www.BakaloMykonos.com

Instagram: @Bakalomiami
Facebook: facebook.com/BakaloMiami