Q&A: Step Inside a Waterfront Oasis at Elia

Photography by Alejandro Chavarria on July 11th, 2024 in Editorials

Miami, FL – July 11, 2024 – “We wanted Elia to evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia, and drew inspiration from a tale of a man who fell in love with a woman named Elia.”

Sitting on the Miami River is the waterfront oasis that is Elia. Elia on the River from Aden Hospitality offers an unparalleled dining experience that 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.”

Elia boasts a range of exquisite dishes, ranging from burrata served with heirloom tomatoes and shaved truffles and lobster linguini, to grilled lamb chops and tuscan ribeye — all while dining “al fresco” where guests can arrive by land or boat, docking right out front of the restaurant, which was designed by famed interior design firm @Saladino Design Studios.

“We want nothing more than to be a warm and beautiful place where people can celebrate all of their big and small moments over a remarkable meal.”

WRE: Can you share the story behind Elia and what inspired the design and concept of the restaurant?

Engin Akdemir: We wanted Elia to evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia, and drew inspiration from a tale of a man who fell in love with a woman named Elia. Although she loved him in return, she loved her freedom more, and left him to pursue a free-spirited life near the sea. He was devastated and vowed to spend the rest of his life searching for her. It’s this coastal story of love and longing that inspired every aspect of the restaurant, so much so that we painted it by hand on all the walls.

WRE: Can you talk to us about the aesthetic of Elia, including any standout design elements?

EA: 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. Every single decor element plays into this theme, from the imported Italian marbles to the velvet and rattan furniture.

WRE: What do you hope guests take away from their visit to Elia, in terms of ambiance and culinary experience?

EA: We embarked on this project with the idea of creating a culinary destination where both locals and visitors could feel welcome and enjoy the best of what Miami has to offer. We want nothing more than to be a warm and beautiful place where people can celebrate all their big and small moments over a remarkable meal.

We wanted Elia to evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia, and drew inspiration from a tale of a man who fell in love with a woman named Elia.

Engin Akdemir

WRE: What are some of the standout dishes and drinks?

EA: For those pining for a more traditional taste of Italy, we recommend starting with the burrata served with heirloom tomatoes and shaved truffles, followed by the show-stopping lobster linguini. For those wanting to try a non-seafood dish, our grilled lamb chops are an excellent choice.

WRE: What is the inspiration behind the menu at Elia? How do you combine both coastal Italian traditions and Miami’s tropical charm?

EA: 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. In true Mediterranean style, the dishes can be enjoyed al fresco on our bougainvillea-filled terrace, all while soaking in Miami’s breathtaking sunsets.

WRE: Are there any dining perks or special offerings you’d like Miami locals to know about?

EA: Monday through Thursday we have happy hour with bar bites starting at $5 and $8 drinks. Monday through Friday our lunch special is $20 per person for two courses. And then on Bella Notte Thursdays, ladies get complimentary bubbles starting at 9pm. Weekends at Elia are especially vibrant with live DJs and guest singers.