Ioannis Kotsos
Born and raised in Greece’s capital city, Athens, surrounded by the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, Chef Giannis Kostos has always drawn inspiration from his Hellenic background to create innovative and authentic dishes with his deep and culturally rooted cooking techniques. With two decades of Greek culinary cuisine and experiences, Chef Giannis served as executive chef at Kouzina Greek Bistro in Midtown Miami, and acts as culinary consultant of Freshko Gourmet in Downtown Miami. Prior to that, he owned and operated eateries in Greece, and served as an importer of meats and fishes from his homeland to the United States.
Chef Giannis’ most recent culinary endeavor serves as Executive Chef and Partner of Meraki Greek Bistro, the newly opened Greek hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Downtown Miami. Creating new and adding a twist to authentic recipes, Chef Giannis ensures that the balance of ingredients and presentation of each dish blends perfectly together to create an impeccable palatable yet authentic look, taste and feel of Greece.
“Authenticity is always key and my goal is for our guests to taste and feel as though they have been transported to Greece,” said Chef Giannis. “Our menu is simple and our ‘meraki’ creates great food and a one-of-a-kind experience that people can enjoy with friends and family.”
Under Chef Giannis’ culinary leadership, Meraki Greek Bistro brings fresh and high quality product every day and welcomes you to dive into a fantastic array of daily and nightly specials that include, traditional appetizers, house-made gyros, souvlakia, lamb chops and charred octopus. Chef Giannis’ signature dish includes a Greek-twist on nachos made with crispy pitas topped off with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, yogurt sauce and olive oil.
