Story

The newly renovated Mon Ami Gabi seamlessly blends classic Parisian charm with modern sophistication, elevating the dining experience in every aspect. The inviting olive-green exterior, paired with a classic bistro awning and seating, warmly beckons guests. Upon entering, “Mon Ami Gabi” is elegantly spelled out in tile across the entrance tile floor, welcoming guests into a thoughtfully refreshed interior. Rich dark wood accents contrast beautifully against soft yellow walls, creating a cozy yet refined ambiance. Extra-large chandeliers cast a warm glow throughout the space, while vibrant, playful paintings add a lively charm. Architectural enhancements, including high-end finishes, custom millwork, and upgraded fixtures, contribute to a luxurious atmosphere. A striking bar, complete with a suspended shelving display, anchors one side of the room, drawing guests in with its elegant design and inviting energy. The bar itself was a feat of engineering, with the final chandelier mock-up—measuring approximately 92 inches wide and 5 feet tall—requiring nearly 200 man-hours to disassemble, transport through the bar window, and securely install on the ceiling. The bar now seamlessly serves both indoor and outdoor patrons through elegant folding window walls. The adjacent outdoor dining area—relocated from the front of the restaurant to a more intimate side setting—is now nestled beneath a sophisticated canopy, creating a more refined and inviting al fresco experience. As guests continue through the restaurant, they discover additional seating options, including sophisticated private dining areas. These exclusive spaces offer a refined setting for special occasions, featuring rich textures, warm lighting, and carefully curated décor. These private dining areas were enhanced with three separate folding partitions, each featuring a hidden pocket door for seamless concealment when not in use, to expand the private dining rooms, as needed, based upon the size of the event. The transformation extended beyond aesthetics, requiring a complex construction process. The new layout was built over an active movie theater, demanding meticulous coordination to minimize disruptions. To accommodate the nearly 35-foot-tall scaffolding needed for the main bar, bathrooms, and private dining room bar plumbing, two separate theater spaces had to be temporarily shut down and occupied. Extensive waterproofing and rigorous flood testing were conducted to ensure a leak-free environment. We worked closely with the client and the architect of record to navigate the evolving scope of work. Notably, the only two finishes that remained consistent throughout the project were the zinc countertop at the main bar and the stone at the private dining room bar—everything else underwent changes. The custom tile package from Italy, featuring hand-made stone pieces and mosaics, was a one-of-a-kind element that, despite multiple revisions, added a unique touch to the space. Every detail of Mon Ami Gabi’s transformation was carefully considered, resulting in a space that seamlessly marries timeless elegance with contemporary luxury.