Gaetan's journey into the world of wine and dining has deep roots. After two decades running Sharkies, a beer-focused bar in Bayside, Gaetan teamed up with his brother, renowned DJ Oscar G, and brother-in-law Greg Chin to bring The Grape Ape to life. "It's a total family journey," Gaetan says.
Gaetan's passion for wine took shape after a trip to Spain, inspiring him to open a restaurant where great food and great wine come together. The result? A wine program that mirrors the retail prices of a liquor store more than a restaurant, making high-end selections like Caymus far more accessible. There's even a retail option — diners can take home their favorite bottles without the dine-in fee.
Spanish Tapas like Pan Tumaca, Manchego Croquetas, and Olives
The owners initially met with chef Rapicavoli of Eating House and Luca Osteria just to get his advice on potential chefs for the project. After hearing their concept and family-driven vision, Rapicavoli offered to take the helm himself, crafting a menu that spans global influences.His offerings include marinated olives with yuzu and Californian olive oil, pan tumaca on Sullivan Street Bakery bread, and hand-cut salchichon Iberico from Salamanca. Small plates feature manchego cheese croquetas with black truffle honey and local burrata with California olive oil.
Larger plates include yellowfin tuna tataki, rock shrimp fricasse with red pepper sofrito, and grilled octopus with black garlic romesco. The menu rounds out with a free-range chicken Milanesa, grilled lamb chops with grape saba, and a 10-ounce butcher's steak with shoestring fries.
The interior of the Grape Ape matches its eclectic and comforting menu. Think industrial wine shelves set against vibrant murals and abstract art — an aesthetic Gaetan describes as having a "Brooklyn feel" with a Miami twist. The vibe is rounded out by live music several nights a week, creating a space that's equal parts wine bar, restaurant, and neighborhood hangout.
As for the name? Yes, it's that Grape Ape — both the classic cartoon character and the cannabis strain might have influenced the choice. But the final decision came when they spotted an image that sealed the deal. "We found this weird image online of an ape with a glass of wine in his hand," Gaetan says. "And we were like, that's it. This is the sign."
The Grape Ape. 7400 SW 57th Ct., South Miami; thegrapeapemiami.com.
