RIVER OYSTER BAR TO REMAIN OPEN AT BRICKELL LOCATION

Through almost 3-years of intensive construction, street closures, and landscape altering conditions, David Bracha and his team at the River Oyster Bar have stood their ground continuing to serve loyal patrons 7-days a week.  Enduring the demolition of its neighbor, Tobacco Road, and the closing of numerous other restaurants and area businesses, Bracha had remained unsure about the fate of his neighborhood favorite, which he opened over 10 years ago, before Brickell became what it is today.

The future of River Oyster Bar remained such a question that he and his partners secured an alternate location, adjacent to the Miami River.  A series of unforeseen circumstances created an ever-changing plan. This included the sale of the current building and land, the wavering plans by the new landlord and issues with the lease of the planned new location.

The most recent development has brought about good fortune to the River Oyster Bar team. Bracha has inked a deal which will enable the restaurant to remain at its current location, for a minimum of an additional 3-years.

“We made it this far!” said Bracha. “With the first phase of Brickell City Center set to open by the end of the year, we’re excited to be a part of the changing neighborhood and that The River will remain a true neighborhood restaurant amidst the hundreds of national brands opening in the adjacent center.”

Adding additional excitement to The River will be a revitalization including new decor and new menu items, some of which will be favorites from Bracha’s sister restaurant, Oak Tavern, which closed earlier this year when the building was sold.  The Oak’s Chef de Cuisine, Curtis Rhodes, will be a full-time fixture in the River Oyster Bar’s kitchen preparing River favorites, and those form Oak, which include Tuna Poke with avocado & sweet soy; Scallop Tostadas; Crispy Suckling Pig; and Mushroom Crusted Ribeye. Even the most popular Oak cocktails will be available including The Green Mile and a Mai Tai.

Cosmetic renovations will update the feel from the original design put in place 13 years ago. Changes will include the addition of communal high-top tables, causal dining elements, small plates for sharing and expansion of the ever popular bar area.

Guests will have their first chance to enjoy the Oak additions on Tuesday, June 30^th as The River kicks off the Independence Day holiday weekend at a special POP-OAK dinner.  The River Oyster Bar will remain open at 650 Miami Avenue for regular dinner service, happy hour and lunch, which includes complimentary parking in The River’s adjacent parking lot.