MEDITERRANEAN MASTERPIECE

PROPRIETOR THANASIS BARLOS AND CHEF KRIS WESSEL RE-CREATE ELIA RESTAURANT

BAL HARBOUR FL- October 15th, 2003 -- Proprietor Athanasios Barlos formally announced today that he has teamed up with Chef Kris Wessel, to recreate ELIA RESTAURANT, located at 9700 Collins Avenue in the Bal Harbour Shops, Bal Harbour Florida. The new Elia menu was introduced on September 1, 2003 and features a culinary direction they are labeling 'New Mediterranean Cuisine.

Mr. Barlos, who also operated the legendary Boschetto, in Athens Greece, was aware of Chef Wessels work at LIAISON RESTAURANT & BAR on South Beach. Chef Wessel had previously been Sous Chef with Mark Millitello,

"Kris has a passion for Food," said Barlos. He is a perfectionist, in creating, preparing and presenting his cuisine. He has the highest standards for innovation and quality I have experienced in Florida."

New Mediterranean Cuisine"

New Mediterranean Cuisine matches the ingredients of more than 20 countries and regions of the Mediterranean, with accompaniments regularly changing with the seasons. Chef Kris Wessels interpretations of Mediterranean cookery balance a minimum of elements with a maximum of taste. The signature dishes reflect authentic Mediterranean regional cookery with modern techniques. Some items: Tunisian Lamb Spare Ribs with Yogurt Cucumber Rinser or, Pomegranate Lemon Seared Jumbo Shrimp & Pita Swizzle or Seville Orange Ceviche, White Corn & Palm Hearts. Chef Wessel has also instituted a 'sustainability philosophy for Elia, employing local growers and purveyors, for the freshest possible ingredients.

It is a privilege for me to be associated with Thanasis and the Elia project," said Wessel. His past success is huge and his vision for the future so exciting; this is a real opportunity."

Elia Restaurant will re-present itself to the Local Media and to its guests and clientele in a series of on site events that will feature New Mediterranean Cuisine paired with the Wine & Spirits of Elia. A National campaign and introduction to the Industry Press is also planned throughout the Fall and Winter, capped with a James Beard House Dinner in February 2004.

"The purpose for re-creating Elia is to focus on the Mediterranean in a most inventive, creative way, said Mr. Barlos. Our offer is the spirit of the Mediterranean in every savory taste, in a beautiful environment and satisfying dining experience."

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ZAGAT CATEGORY: MEDITERRANEAN