Renowned chef Erhan Özkaya is teaming up with Gale Miami Hotel & Residences to introduce three exciting dining experiences to the vibrant heart of Downtown Miami. Nestled on Biscayne Boulevard, this hotel-condo tower is on the brink of completion, with a grand opening scheduled for May 2024. Chef Özkaya’s culinary prowess will shine through these new ventures, spanning from an American-style steakhouse to an Italian concept, and a Mediterranean hotspot celebrating his Turkish roots. These gastronomic adventures will be complemented by bespoke concierge catering services tailored for residents and visitors alike.
Chef Erhan Özkaya’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his love for food and a profound appreciation for his heritage. Hailing from Iskenderun, Turkey, his culinary odyssey commenced in his grandparents’ kitchen, where he first honed his skills and experimented with the rich flavors of local cuisine. Driven by his passion, Chef Özkaya pursued formal training in Tourism and Hotel Management, refining his craft at esteemed establishments like Hilton Mersin and Hilton Istanbul. His expertise spans across various cuisines, from Italian and Spanish to his cherished Turkish flavors. Miami’s competitive culinary landscape became his playground, as he left his mark at renowned venues such as The Bazaar by Jose Andres and Mandolin Aegean Bistro, among others. Notably, he steered Wynwood Diner to the title of “Best Diner of 2015” as its executive chef and played a pivotal role at the esteemed Joia Beach Club.
“Partnering with Gale Miami Hotel & Residences allows me to infuse my culinary identity into Downtown Miami’s thriving restaurant scene,” shares Chef Erhan Özkaya. “Miami’s diversity inspires me, and together with Gale Miami, we aim to craft a culinary haven that pays homage to the city’s eclectic dining landscape,” he adds. “Food is about storytelling, and through the dishes at Gale Miami, I look forward to sharing the narrative of my Turkish heritage and global culinary adventures. This collaboration transcends mere dining—it’s about cultivating an extraordinary culinary experience right in the heart of Downtown Miami.”
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Chef Erhan Özkaya’s vision will materialize through three distinct dining concepts at Gale Miami Hotel & Residences. The journey begins in Summer 2024 with an Italian haven on the ground floor, offering expansive indoor-outdoor seating and a 360-degree bar. Ascending to the 9th floor, guests will encounter two exceptional dining venues. The first, an American steakhouse and lounge, promises prime cuts and impeccable service in a timeless ambiance. Following suit, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant paying homage to Erhan’s Turkish roots will grace the skyline. This Mediterranean gem will boast a retractable roof and an outdoor terrace, offering unparalleled views of downtown Miami. Beyond these culinary delights, Chef Erhan Özkaya will extend his expertise to concierge catering services for the Gale Miami Conference Center, situated on the 8th floor. With over 20,000 square feet of meticulously designed space, the Conference Center is primed for hosting diverse events, from corporate gatherings to weddings, ensuring unforgettable experiences for all attendees.
“Having Chef Erhan Özkaya onboard elevates Gale Miami to the forefront of Downtown Miami’s culinary scene,” remarks Keith Menin of Sixth Street Miami Partners LLC. “His culinary mastery and innovative concepts perfectly align with our vision for Gale Miami Hotel & Residences,” he adds. “These three dining destinations are poised to dazzle, fueled by Chef Özkaya’s passion for culinary storytelling and his unparalleled expertise across various cuisines.”
