Gesto, the latest venture from Nicolas Kurban and Kurban Hospitality Group, is opened its doors in Delray Beach on February 19, 2025. Located at 522 East Atlantic Avenue, this intimate 55-seat pizzeria will focus on sourdough hybrid pizzas made with premium Italian flour, Jersey-grown tomatoes, and traditional wood-fired cooking.
Leading the kitchen is Garri Banar, a seasoned pizzaiolo and artisan baker known for his expertise in fermentation and flour science. Raised between Philadelphia and New York, Banar honed his craft over the years, developing a signature dough that is crisp yet airy, with a delicate chew and perfectly blistered crust. His dedication to technique and quality ingredients is the foundation of Gesto’s menu.
Kurban, an accomplished restaurateur with a background spanning Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Four Seasons Hotels Asia Pacific, and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, saw an opportunity to transform the original Amar Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar space into a concept celebrating the art of pizza-making.
“Pizza is a science, but great pizza is an art,” said Kurban. “It’s all about the dough! Garri and I share a belief that exceptional ingredients and proper technique are what make the difference. Gesto is about honoring tradition while embracing innovation, creating something truly special for Delray Beach.”
Gesto’s menu will feature a selection of small plates, vibrant salads, and thoughtfully crafted pizzas that balance classic and inventive flavors. Each naturally leavened, thin-crust pizza begins with Banar’s signature sourdough hybrid dough—fermented to achieve a crisp yet airy texture and finished in a wood-burning oven. Guests can expect everything from a classic Margherita to bold creations like pepperoni with jalapeños or a unique pairing of Cosmic Crisp apples with cinnamon and spicy honey.
“For me, pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a form of expression,” says Banar. “We’re bringing something truly special to Delray Beach, and I can’t wait for our guests to experience the passion we put into every bite.”
Housemade desserts like a tangy Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie and fragrant Orange Cake round out the menu. While Gesto will serve beer and wine only, beverage consultant Eric Hammer has curated an Italian-focused wine list designed to complement the pizzas, along with a rotating selection of international and local craft beers.
Designed by Manhas Designs, Gesto’s striking red and black interior, paired with sleek banquettes, creates a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere. Guests can watch the pizza-making process up close, while a handful of outdoor seats along Atlantic Avenue provide a relaxed setting for al fresco dining. Throughout, Kurban’s signature hospitality ensures a warm and inviting experience.
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