Vinya wine retailer and wine bar has a winning formula. And they think so too, as after Key Biscayne where they just opened, they’re opening on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables and then Brickell in a high-profile spot. You can go there and have a glass or two of reasonably priced wine from a large selection (or cocktail), delicious food, and pick up some wine or liquor from a collection of 2000 bottles along with gourmet food items to go. Plus, the ambiance is casually stylish, friendly, and inviting. And there’s much more.
The 3200 square foot space formerly known as Stefano’s, has floor to ceiling shelves of wine and liquor, a 10-seat wine bar and separate area with open kitchen for private parties and wine tastings. There’s also an exceptionally well curated selection of fine foods and beverages ranging from caviar and cheeses to Aubi & Ramsa liquor infused ice creams, charcuterie, olive oils, and single serving bottles of champagne and cocktails in a can. It’s ideal as a one stop shop for a picnic too.
The wine collection and programming is overseen by their in house sommelier Allegra Angelo who has developed more than 20 wine and spirit programs across the country and was formerly sommelier and wine director of Chef Michelle Bernstein.
Find unique and traditional wines, and weekly wine tastings both in the tasting room and test kitchen space which seats 12 . The area can also be used for private events. A great gift idea are the monthly subscription boxes including tasting notes available in two tiers –$45 for two and $95 for four bottles.
The wine bar is staffed with a bartender who mixes up cocktail favorites and signature drinks developed in a collaboration with Bar Lab. Team up the drink with selections from an appealing menu of crostini, bar bites ($8-$11), salads ($13-$15 plus add on supplement for protein), medium plates (priced in the teens), bigger plates ($19-$32 for a 12-ounce New York strip) and sweets.
I’ve tried their charcuterie and cheese board, bacon wrapped dates, short rib empanadas, Vinya burger made with American wagyu, and mango meringue tart, all very good. A glass of wine starts at $7 for a 5 oz ounce pour, and bottles start at $12, Cocktails are priced in the teens.
The Vinya team Nicholas Garcia, Sommelier Angelo and Jason Deville plan to expand the concept to multiple retail shops, wine bars and restaurant concepts. Vinya Key Biscayne is Monday-Saturday from 10am-10pm and Sundays from 10am-6pm.Lots of free parking. 328 Crandon Blvd. #122-123, Key Biscayne 33149.
