Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Zapata.
Hi Oscar, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Bargean was born out of love. The idea came to life during our honeymoon in Santorini, where the beauty of the Aegean Sea inspired us deeply — not just visually, but emotionally. We fell in love with the freshness of the food, the warmth of the people, and the way every meal felt like a celebration. But as much as we were captivated by that Mediterranean charm, we realized we were missing the bold, soulful flavors we grew up with in our Latin roots.
When we came back home to Miami, we decided to bring those worlds together — to create a place that carried the spirit of the Aegean, but spoke in our own Latin language of flavor and energy. That’s how Bargean was born.
We began construction soon after, and before long, my sister and parents joined in. Today, Bargean is truly a family-owned restaurant, built from love, shared passion, and a deep respect for food and experiences that bring people together. Everything we do — from the kitchen to the table — carries that same intention: to make people feel something genuine.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but that’s part of what makes the journey meaningful. We started Bargean with a dream and a vision born out of love, but bringing that vision to life came with its challenges.
From the early days of construction to navigating permits, supply delays, and the reality of opening a restaurant in Miami’s fast-paced scene — every step tested our patience, resilience, and teamwork. But those same challenges also brought us closer together as a family.
What kept us going was our shared purpose — to create something truly special, something that reflects who we are. We learned that building a restaurant isn’t just about food or design; it’s about people, trust, and heart. And through it all, that love and unity have been our compass.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Bargean?
Bargean is more than a restaurant — it’s an experience born from love, culture, and connection. We specialize in a unique cuisine we call LatinAegeo — rooted in Latin heritage and inspired by the spirit of the Aegean Sea. Our food blends the bold, soulful flavors of Latin America with the simplicity and freshness of the Mediterranean.
We’re known for creating an atmosphere where everything feels intentional — the music, the service, the lighting, the design. Every element is curated to make guests feel like they’ve entered a space that’s both exciting and comforting, familiar yet unexpected.
What sets us apart is our heart. Bargean is a family-owned restaurant built from a shared passion for hospitality and storytelling through food. Our guests feel that warmth — it’s what makes dining here feel like being welcomed into someone’s home, but with the refinement of a high-level culinary experience.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of our authenticity. Nothing about Bargean is copied or forced — it’s deeply personal. Every dish, every cocktail, every detail reflects a story, a memory, or a moment of inspiration.
What we want people to know is that Bargean isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a place to feel. To share, to connect, to celebrate life through food, culture, and family.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Inspiration comes to us from many places — not just hospitality, but from art, travel, and human connection. We draw from anything that reminds us why we love what we do.
We love exploring creative spaces outside of food — design blogs, travel photography, even Mediterranean architecture. Those visuals often spark ideas for how we want Bargean to feel, not just how it looks.
But more than anything, our greatest source of inspiration comes from within our own circle — our family, our team, and the guests who walk through our doors. Their energy, stories, and feedback fuel us more than any book or podcast ever could.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bargean.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bargeanmiami/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bargeanmiami/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BargeanMiami
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bargean-miami?osq=Bargean
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ErwEVyO1ybkPcGrfwEVox
Image Credits
Bargean, LLC
