Riviera Dining Group (RDG) launched its first multifunctional venue, Mila, four years ago in Miami Beach.
Under the leadership of CEO and founder Gregory Galy, the group has since added restaurant Ava and hybrid hospitality concept Casa Neos, as well as inaugurated its members-only program MM.
Here, Galy discusses his background, how RDG sets itself apart in Miami, and what else is on the horizon.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Mougins, on the French Riviera.
Casa Neos features interiors by designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán
What were some of your early F&B-related memories?
I grew up in the South of France, which 20 years ago was a major culinary capital and already had myriad restaurants that had Michelin stars. Early on, my love for gastronomy came from watching my mother entertaining guests at our home. My father was a politician and my mother often hosted events at her house. I would watch my mom spend hours and days leading up to these events, perfecting the tablescape and menu.
Tell us about your career path.
My first job was in a fast food restaurant at 14, and I continued to work in hospitality while attending university. When I was 17 or 18, I shifted to working in nightlife—working the door and as a barback—just about any job imaginable in the industry. A few years later, I moved to Holland to finish my double B.A. in finance.
Shortly after graduating, I moved to New York, where I began work at Fig & Olive. I started as an intern and 11 years later worked my way up to president. The most important thing I learned while at Fig & Olive was [discovering] the function and importance of each and every role. I value those who roll up their sleeves and are willing to understand every aspect of the business.
How did you end up in Miami?
When I was at Fig & Olive, we explored expanding into the Miami market. When I decided to open up my own hospitality group, I knew the market was mature enough, but still felt there was a hole in having top-notch culinary destinations.
What did you want to create with Riviera Dining Group (RDG)?
I wanted to bring a European flair and give Americans access to simple and good food while creating an experience that is not just about the meal.
AVA MediterrAegean in Winter Park, Florida
Tell us about your most recently launched concept Casa Neos.
Casa Neos opened in June along the Miami River. The 30,000-square-foot venue includes a members-only beach club, a Mediterranean restaurant, Noora rooftop restaurant and lounge, and a hotel. Cycladic-inspired and minimalist in design, the property offers a restorative experience through handcrafted materials, rich textures, and curated artisan pieces.
How do you blur the line between fine dining and nightlife?Â
Mila, Ava, and Casa Neos offer the perfect marriage of fine-dining and exclusive nightlife experiences—fusing ambiance, world-class music, exquisite cuisine, and tantalizing mixology to transport guests to far-reaching destinations, raising the standard of the guest experience.
Mila takes guests on a culinary journey through the shores of the Mediterranean and Japan in Miami Beach
What’s next for RDG?
We are opening up Claudie in Miami later this year, and we are looking to expand Mila nationally within the U.S. as well as in the Middle East. Lastly, we are working with Eleven to create a new concept within their residences. With all that said, we don’t want to do too much. We are looking to grow intentionally and expand into areas where we feel we are filling a gap.
What is the part of the process you like the most?
I like bringing people together and introducing them to new and unique flavors.
Best piece of advice ever given?
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
What has been your greatest lesson learned?
My greatest lesson has been to not compare our growth, our brand, or our path to others. Every restaurant, hotel, and members club provides a different product to a different clientele. I view Riviera Dining Group as an outsider—we’re not trying to be someone other than ourselves.
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Casa Neos boasts four distinct experiences, including a signature restaurant (shown)
