The barmeli concept began 2013 as a “hole in the wall” wine & tapas bar on 79th street. Tired of the regular offerings at most local bars, Meli realized it was time in Miami to create a different kind of wine bar! Offering unusual grape varietals & weekly wine tastings, Barmeli quickly became a local hot spot .
Eager to share her passion for Mediterranean wine, Meli sought out small, family owned wine producers that made wine with love, integrity and minimal intervention.
By 2016, due to its overwhelming popularity, a move to a larger location was inevitable . Now known as barmeli69 on 69th Biscayne, the move proved to be a success.
Today, owner Liza Meli with her Greek (opa) influence & executive Chef Christophe Bibard with his French (ooh la la) flair, combine their talents, alongside the Barmeli team, to offer you a unique dining experience. Barmeli69 remains a local favorite & true hidden gem
OUR TEAM
Meli Bio
Raised in Sydney, Australia of Greek descent, Meli was influenced with the food, language, traditions and cultures of her heritage.
It was at 15 when Meli began work at her uncle’s popular Greek Seafood restaurant where her passion & curiosity arose in this field. She continued her work in some of the best Greek owned Seafood restaurants in Sydney, as well as a stint at the Hilton Hotel and part time as a Latin/ Brazilian Ballroom dancer.
With her parents unconditional love & encouragement, especially Mama Lucy, to “follow your heart & dreams” in 1993 (at 26), Meli was ready for her own restaurant. She decided to take a world trip, to expand her knowledge in her chosen profession.
When she landed in South Beach, Miami in September 1993, her restaurant dream was put on hold due to her encounter with the great flamenco guitarist, Alex Fox. Life became about travel, dance & music. Thanks to her dancing & entertainment experience, Meli (aka Liza Luna) became Fox’s agent/concert producer/dancer/wife. A performance for President Clinton in 1998 was the ultimate high.
In 2000, while touring in the South of France, came the life changing news of her first child Alexia. Anthony came soon after. Travelling took its toll on the growing family. With an amicable separation in 2002, Meli was able to pursue her true passion – food & wine.
The first Ouzo’s Greek Taverna was created in North Beach with her brother Johnny in 2002 with much success. It was here, that she met Andrea Schiavi, who is still by her side on each venture and adds that special “je ne sais quoi”
Other restaurants are Ouzo’s Mediterranean Bistro in South Beach, Sunset Harbor (2007)
Anise Mediterranean Taverna located on the charming Miami River from 2008 -2012
BarMeli Tapas & Wine bar was created in January 2014 on the up & coming 79th causeway.. Due to its popularity and loyal following another move was inevitable for a larger space, adequate parking and a full kitchen on the Biscayne corridor..
BarMeli69 Greek Bistro & Wine Bar is a fun, social, local friendly eatery that caters to all ages & ethnicities. It has a warm, non-corporate, no nonsense & unpretentious ambiance where customers feel like they are dining at Meli’s home.. You will find her there nightly to welcome you with open arms, a smile and a story or two.
Christophe Bibard
