Amar Mediterranean Bistro, a beloved spot in Delray Beach, just transformed into Amar Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar reopening on November 1, 2024. Located at 25 SE 6th Ave—just steps from its original location—this expanded 4,500-square-foot venue brings more seating, a covered outdoor dining area, and a full bar with daily happy hour specials. Adding to the excitement, Amar will host its first Sunday brunch just in time for the holiday season.
The family-owned restaurant, led by Nicolas Kurban with his daughter Nicole and son-in-law Michael McKenna, has become a Delray Beach dining gem since opening in 2021. With roots in Lebanese heritage, Kurban brings a unique Mediterranean experience to the area, offering a flavorful journey through dishes like hummus, baba ghanouj, kibbeh, falafel, and a variety of grilled meats and fresh fish. The larger kitchen at Amar Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar will allow them to expand the menu with even more dishes inspired by Kurban’s heritage.
With a background working alongside culinary icons like Thomas Keller and Wolfgang Puck, and in executive roles at luxury properties such as Wynn Resort & Casino and Four Seasons Hotels Asia Pacific, Kurban has poured his experience and passion into this new space. “We’ve truly outgrown our first home here on the Avenue,” he shares, “and always dreamed of a space where guests could enjoy a great cocktail or happy hour experience.” Beverage consultant Eric Hammer has crafted a unique cocktail menu, featuring Mediterranean-inspired drinks alongside twists on classic cocktails.
The new full bar will showcase signature cocktails made with seasonal fruits, house-made syrups, and premium spirits, along with an eclectic wine list highlighting Lebanese and international wines. With the expanded space, Amar can now host semi-private events and plans to extend hours for lunch and brunch in the near future.
As a nod to its origins, Kurban Hospitality Group will repurpose the current Amar Bistro into Gesto, an artisanal pizza shop opening in winter 2025. Gesto will center around a wood-fired oven and focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients for an authentic pizza experience. “It’s a natural progression for us,” says Kurban, “and our wood-burning oven, which has been at the heart of Amar, will now anchor a unique pizza concept.”
With its November 1 launch, Amar Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar is set to be a vibrant addition to Delray Beach’s dining scene.
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