Today we’d like to introduce you to Ramon Bermudez.
Hi Ramon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Our family has always been known for food. I had many years of experience in the food industry, running notable high-end bakeries like Andalusia Bake Shops and the Epicure Market on Miami Beach. but had found myself in the Real Estate Appraisal business for the last 20 years.
The idea of owning a wine bar was first born out of a desire to diversify our business portfolio after living through 2008 and not wanting to have all my eggs in the real estate basket again. At a time in my life when many of my colleagues were planning their retirement, I decided to reignite some old passions and go into business with my two sons and family, in hopes of leaving a fun legacy behind for my family.
We decided if were going to move forward with a wine bar, we wanted to be in an area that needed a spot with quality food and drinks… West Kendall.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No new business endeavor is smooth. There have been unexpected expenses, the rising cost of food, and the challenge of hiring quality staff. But this was expected and taken on. Dedication, hard work, and sacrifice are all part of the game plan in any successful business.
As you know, we’re big fans of Mellow Grapes. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We intend to become Kendall’s, Wine Bar. We intend to be the place everyone calls their own. We have procured an extensive wine list specializing in special wines you won’t typically find anywhere else.
There’s something for everyone. We’ve taken the same approach with our craft beer selection. We have a limited kitchen space, but we still pride ourselves on making fresh, homemade bites. Our desserts are quickly becoming popular and well-known, and we have people coming in every day just for our flan flight.
We are family owned and operated, so when you walk in, you’re being greeted, served, or having your food prepared by one of us. We want everyone to feel like they’re coming into our living room. We recently hosted a Havana Nights party and it felt like a family reunion, with different generations all enjoying our awesome wines, food, and domino tournament. I think that’s what sets us apart – the pride you feel when you walk into our doors.
We are a law enforcement family as well, so we offer discounts on Wednesdays to first responders and have extended this to include all community heroes (police, fire, medical staff, and educators). Ladies drink free Sangria all night on Thursdays and we have live music on some weekends.
We love hosting parties, whether it’s private gatherings or events like our upcoming Miami Vice 80’s party and Great Gatsby-style Prohibition night. There’s always something going on at Mellow Grapes.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
We host a monthly Wine Tasting that simply put, is becoming epic. It’s been selling out and it’s the place to be. Our Wine Class is special because it’s making wine accessible to Kendall.
Each month, we pick a different region and pair it with food, and give people the opportunity to learn about wine in a down-to-earth, fun environment. It’s the perfect date night.
Contact Info:
- Website: mellowgrapesmiami.com
- Instagram: @mellowgrapesmiami
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mellow-grapes-no-title
Image Credits
Mellow Grapes
