After nearly a decade of dishing out inventive cuisine and cocktails, Beaker & Gray, a trailblazer in Miami’s Wynwood district, will shut its doors on June 30. The news dropped on June 20, when co-owners Brian Nasajon and Ben Potts shared a heartfelt statement with the press.
“We’ve had an incredible run with Beaker & Gray and are extremely proud of the part we have played in Wynwood’s development into a world-famous neighborhood,” said Nasajon. “Our passionate approach to culinary excellence confirmed our status as one of the longest-lived restaurants in this quickly gentrifying location.”
Since flinging open its doors in December 2015, Beaker & Gray has nestled at the core of Wynwood’s shift from hipster hideaway to famed cultural and artistic nexus. The place lured a loyal crowd with its worldly eats and whimsical cocktails, all set in a dimly lit, effortlessly cool, and welcoming ambiance.
Nasajon and Potts, two key players in Miami’s culinary scene, launched the restaurant just as Wynwood was blossoming into a lively neighborhood. Beaker & Gray swiftly became a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, famed for its lunch, dinner, happy hour, and popular brunch offerings.
“As one of the original Wynwood business owners, along with our neighbors Zak the Baker and Fireman Derek, we’ve witnessed the transformation of the neighborhood,” added Nasajon. “We’ve seen it grow from an urban hipster haunt to an international tourist destination.”
The decision to close Beaker & Gray is part of a broader plan for Nasajon and Potts, who are moving on to new projects within Miami. While specific details of their future endeavors remain under wraps, the duo hinted at exciting developments on the horizon.
“Now that we’ve made the decision to move onto other projects, we’ve decided to go out in style and celebrate our tenure the month of June,” Nasajon explained. “We’ve been the place for so many memories, hosted countless events, and enjoyed great community support. We wanted to find the right way to thank and say farewell – but not goodbye – to our many friends and loyal clientele.”
To mark their final days, Beaker & Gray will roll out a series of special events and promotions. Starting now, the restaurant is reviving its beloved “$5 Happy Hour,” featuring drinks and small plates for $5 from Wednesday to Sunday, 4:30 to 7 p.m. Extra festivities are lined up for the last ten days, ensuring a memorable farewell for this cherished Wynwood spot.
The news of Beaker & Gray’s closure has stirred deep emotions in the community. Both longtime regulars and newcomers are invited to enjoy their final meals and drinks at this iconic venue before it shuts its doors. Reservations can be made through Resy.com, giving fans a chance to savor the experience one last time.
As Wynwood continues to evolve, Beaker & Gray’s legacy will stand as a tribute to the neighborhood’s vibrant spirit and the culinary brilliance Nasajon and Potts brought to the scene. Though the restaurant will be missed, the community eagerly looks forward to the new ventures these innovative restaurateurs will introduce in the future.
