Tim Andriola's Basil Park in Sunny Isles Beach Closes

Basil Park has closed after two years of serving delicious meals with a healthful slant.

The Sunny Isles Beach restaurant was chef Tim Andriola's followup to his Mediterranean concept, Timo, which remains open.

Andriola opened the bistro in 2014 after losing some 30 pounds by employing the assistance of a life coach who helped the chef learn how to live a healthier life. In a 2014 interview with New Times, the slimmer toque said, "It was exactly what I needed to hear not only as chef but also as someone who's interested in health and nutrition. It changed the way I look at food."

The chef then opened Basil Park, partnering with Tamer and Claire Harpke of Harpke's Family Farm in Broward County, which provided the restaurant with much of its produce. The restaurant also served antibiotic-free proteins and fresh produce. "We're hunter-gatherers, we ate foods from the land, intact grains, nuts, berries, and a little bit of fish and meat. That's what our bodies were built to do," the chef said about his restaurant's offerings.

Earlier this morning, however, Andriola sent out the following message:

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Basil Park. It has been an honor and privilege to serve you these past two years. We have developed many friendships and loyal customers over this time, friendships that will last a lifetime. We are deeply grateful for our Basil Park team for all the hard work and effort that you gave our customers. Your enthusiasm and support is what made Basil Park a home and we shall miss you all. Thank you especially to Tamer and Claire Harpke of Harpke's Family Farm for always providing us awesome organic produce! Your partnership and belief of providing the most wholesome, nutritionally sound food to South Florida is what inspired us from the beginning. We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us and we wish you all the best!"

There is a silver lining to this black cloud. Andriola's message ended with this hopeful comment: "And as they say, when one door closes, another one opens... We will see you again!" The chef also stated that although the restaurant closed, he will still keep Basil Park alive through private events, catering gigs, and cooking classes. To contact Andriola, email [email protected].