Back in May, when I reported on the opening of Zara Mediterranean Grill in Palm Beach Gardens, I promised readers more to come about this ambitious and delicious fine-casual concept. That promise now hits a sour note: despite early buzz and a promising start, Zara has shuttered.
The restaurant, which opened March 9, previously posted vague messages about a temporary closure on social media. An outgoing voice message also says the restaurant is temporarily closed.
But a more definitive note — stating the closure is permanent — was posted at both entryways. All social media pages and its website are also gone.
Zara was the brainchild of chef-partner Gonzalo Rivera, formerly of Boca Beach Club and a veteran of Michael Mina’s culinary empire, and co-owner Lirim Jacobi, known for Cucina Pizza by Design. Together, they transformed the former Palma Pizza space into a stylish yet relaxed dining destination.
Via text, Rivera shared that he had to step away from Zara for personal reasons.
The menu stood out for its vibrant, produce-forward dishes — like a fantastic whipped feta with pistachio and pomegranate and tangine lemon chicken. Chef Michael Figueroa’s artful plating and Rivera’s global pedigree promised a new kind of Mediterranean experience for the area: elevated fare with accessible pricing. Reviews on Facebook were overwhelmingly positive.
Zara’s sudden exit leaves a noticeable gap in the local dining scene — especially for those following the Mediterranean Diet or seeking globally inspired cuisine with a healthful twist.
This concept broke new ground as nouvelle Mediterranean fine dining with hints of Mexican influence when it comes to botanicals and vegetables. Rivera grew up in California, his parents hailed from Mexico and did farm work during harvest season. He was also the executive chef at Capella Ixtapa, my favorite resort.
Decor and vibes were casual, but there was nothing casual about the food. It was fine dining minus pretense or fussiness.
Diana Biederman is the Palm Beach Post’s new food & restaurant writer. Care to share news tips about the local dining scene? Please send them to dbiederman@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: ‘Unforeseen circumstances’ close Zara Mediterranean Grill in Palm Beach Gardens
Reporting by Diana Biederman, Palm Beach Post / Palm Beach Post
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