The popular "hidden gem" restaurant inspired by the Greek Isles now has a complimentary Athens-style neighborhood bar serving natural wine and local craft beer - with cocktails on the way.

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Meraki Hospitality expands with the opening of Saloni Bar by Meraki, an intimate neighborhood bar adjacent to Meraki Greek Bistro in downtown Miami. Saloni Bar is the perfect complement to Meraki, inspired by the bohemian Aegean Islands off the coast of Greece. It brings an edgier city vibe similar to Athens' modern metropolis. The bar attracts Downtowners looking for natural wine, craft beer, 'locals-friendly' daily happy hour specials, and a taste of Athens with mezes prepared by Executive Chef and Owner Giannis Kotsos. Guests can sit and savor the unique flavors of Athens, whether they are meeting friends, on a romantic date, or watching the big game.

“Downtown Miami is experiencing a complete revitalization with developers and the City investing heavily in the future of the area. As a business owner in the area since 2017, I’ve watched the community evolve from an old school business district into a buzzing destination filled with amazing international restaurants, bars and businesses,'' said Alexander Karavias, partner, Meraki Hospitality. “I’m personally invested in the success of Downtown and believe that Saloni Bar is a great addition to our growing neighborhood bar scene.”

Drink & Dine

The wine menu is hand-selected by Karavias to reflect his favorite regions along The Mediterranean, focusing on the region's natural wines from small, family-run wineries in Greece and Italy. It is highlighted by a selection of over 15 white, orange, red, and sparkling wines. The wines are not only delicious, but natural wine experts report that they lower inflammation, increase antioxidants, regulate blood sugar, and even reduce hangovers, resulting in a healthier way to consume wine.

The extensive craft beer selection includes hyperlocal and small production brews such as Wynwood Brewing Company's Pops Porter, Biscayne Brewing Company's Tropical Bay IPA, and J.Wakefield Brewing Company's El Jefe, and La Tropical's Nativo Key.

The mocktail menu ($9) will rotate seasonal creations made with fresh squeezed ingredients, such as the Kiwi Mojito with kiwi, mint, fresh lime juice, and simple homemade syrup, and the Spicy Lemon Ginger Switchel with apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, honey, fresh ginger, and cayenne pepper. Saloni Bar has enlisted the help of local cocktail consultant Vanessa Serrano of VANETTI to create a Greece-inspired craft cocktail menu (think fruits, herbs, and spices), which will be available next month. Serrano is best known for his cocktail creations at local hotspots Cantina La Vienta, Tacology, Negroni Midtown, Wayku Wynwood, NightLife Brewing, and Crudos Art House, as well as his cocktail and mocktail Master Class with Perrier USA.

Kotsos' menu focuses on elevated bar food offerings inspired by 20 years of living in Athens, including a large selection of burgers like the Greek Burger served with tzatziki, cucumbers, and feta ($16) and Steak Burger with ribeye, fried onions, arugula, and cheese ($22); starters are easy to share and include Crispy Calamari with lemon aioli ($16), Mini Kalamaki Platter (chicken or Salads include the Arugula Salad with roasted almonds, goat cheese, and red onions topped with grilled shrimp ($16), while heartier entrees include the Saloni Pita Sandwich with choice of lamb, chicken, or pork ($16). Salmon Kabobs with lemon sauce and Mediterranean rice pilaf ($20) and classic Fish & Chips ($10).

Vibe

The newest Downtown hot spot for sporting events, Saloni Bar features several TVs with plans for national and international sporting event parties and aggressive daily happy hour specials to match. Happy Hour is daily from 4-7 p.m. and includes $1 draft beer ‘shots’; $12 draft beer pitchers, and $5 Moscow ‘Beer’ Mules. Guests can enjoy a bottle of natural and organic wine for the price of a glass and every day from 6-7 p.m., ‘ladies drink free’ from a selection of house red and white wine, prosecco, draft beer, or Moscow ‘Beer’ Mules. While still in progress, the upstairs lounge features a pool table and bar games, like foosball. Stay tuned to @SaloniByMeraki on Instagram for more information about ongoing neighborhood events including speed dating, local “meet your neighbor” happy hours, curated music programming, and more.

Saloni Bar will hold a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, July 20 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with drinks, bites, and live music by El Jam by Wizzmer, kicking off Saloni Bar's "Downtown Sessions" music series. El Jam and Wizzmer will collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind musical experience, with different artists sporadically placed and jamming out around the venue. The grand opening is free and open to the public; however, RSVPs are required by clicking here. Saloni Bar by Meraki is located at 140 SE 1st Ave.