After contributing to the success of Fig & Olive, where he held key positions that refined his expertise in high-end dining, Gregory Galy embarked on a bold venture by founding Riviera Dining Group. This ambitious hospitality group is a direct expression of his vision- where refined gastronomy meets immersive experiences, redefining the landscape of luxury dining.
With MILA, his flagship concept in Miami, Gregory set a new standard for experiential hospitality. In its very first year of operation, MILA shattered expectations, becoming the 5th highest-grossing independent restaurant in the United States in 2021. The momentum only grew stronger - by 2023, MILA had risen to the #2 top-grossing restaurant in the country, an extraordinary feat that underscores its status as one of the most successful hospitality ventures in the nation.
Located in the heart of Miami, MILA embodies the seamless fusion of sophisticated dining, elevated entertainment, and impeccable service. Building on this success, Riviera Dining Group continues to push the boundaries of hospitality, crafting high-energy, high-volume concepts that seamlessly merge culinary artistry with immersive storytelling. From the MediterrAegean elegance of AVA, to the vibrant waterfront atmosphere of CASA NEOS, and the timeless sophistication of Claudie, each concept reflects Riviera Dining Group's unwavering commitment to exceptional dining, bold innovation, and unforgettable experiences.
Through this interview, discover the vision of a man who has transformed his passion for gastronomy into a true luxury enterprise.
Hello! We’d love to learn more about your career journey and what led you to make the decision to found Riviera Dining Group. How did you know it was the right moment to take that step, and what was the main goal that drove you at that time?
My journey in hospitality has always been about creating elevated experiences - ones that blend culinary excellence with ambiance, service, and a strong sense of community. After more than a decade at Fig & Olive, I felt it was the right time to take the next step and build something that fully aligned with my vision for high-end hospitality.
The main goal behind founding Riviera Dining Group was to craft immersive experiences where every detail - culinary, service, music, design, and lighting - works in harmony to shape a unique and memorable moment. I wanted to go beyond just great dining and create spaces where guests feel transported, whether through a refined dinner setting or an energetic late-night atmosphere. This holistic approach to hospitality is what continues to drive our concepts today.
With over 10 years of experience at Fig & Olive, where you held key roles that helped shape your expertise, what was the most stimulating part of those stages in your career, and how does it influence your leadership style today?
Fig & Olive was instrumental in shaping my understanding of high-volume, experiential dining. I had the opportunity to be deeply involved in operations, branding, and scaling the business, which taught me the importance of consistency, adaptability, and guest-driven innovation. Today, my leadership style reflects these learnings - I focus on empowering teams, refining every detail, and continuously evolving to stay ahead in an ever-changing industry.
Miami is a global culinary hub and a place of opportunities. What made this city the obvious choice for launching Riviera Dining Group, and how does the local atmosphere influence your approach to hospitality and fine dining?
Miami has an unparalleled energy - it's cosmopolitan, diverse, and always evolving. The city has become a hotspot for international travelers, entrepreneurs, and tastemakers, making it the perfect place to introduce elevated dining experiences that merge global influences with Miami’s vibrant social scene. The mix of cultures here pushes us to innovate while maintaining a deep connection to the Mediterranean roots that inspire much of our cuisine.
With iconic concepts such as Mila, Ava, Casa Neos, MM, and Claudie, Riviera Dining Group continues to evolve. How do you maintain a balance between innovation and consistency in your initiatives?
The key to balancing innovation and consistency is a strong foundation - our brand philosophy, culinary identity, and service standards remain constant while we push boundaries in design, entertainment, and guest experiences. We approach each concept as a unique entity while maintaining a cohesive DNA across our venues. We also embrace data, guest feedback, and trend forecasting to ensure we stay ahead while keeping our core values intact.
The recognition of Riviera Dining Group as a "Great Place to Work" is a true reflection of your commitment to your teams. Could you share more about the specific actions you have taken to create an inclusive, collaborative, and motivating work culture?
Our people are the heart of what we do. We focus on fostering a culture of growth, respect, and inclusion. This means investing in training programs, mentorship, and clear career pathways. We also emphasize a collaborative environment where feedback is valued, and team members feel empowered to contribute creatively. Hospitality is a demanding industry, so ensuring that our employees feel supported and motivated is a priority.
Outside of the kitchen and business management, what elements of your personal life provide you with the energy needed to continue innovating and surprising your clients?
Travel is a major source of inspiration - I love exploring new destinations, discovering emerging culinary trends, and experiencing different hospitality concepts firsthand. Fitness is another essential part of my routine; it keeps me focused and disciplined. Finally, spending time with like-minded entrepreneurs and creative minds helps fuel my vision and keeps me inspired to push boundaries.
And to finish on a personal note, if you were…
- A dish: A perfectly grilled Mediterranean branzino—elegant, timeless, and full of flavor.
- A flavor: Umami - layered, complex, and unforgettable.
- A destination: The French Riviera - sophisticated, vibrant, and effortlessly luxurious.
- A quote: "Excellence is found in the details - when every element is intentional, the experience becomes extraordinary."
