This week Elizabeth and I visit Agapi Bistro + Garden and find the experience lives up to its name.
Agapi is the Greek word for ultimate love and that’s what we felt the minute we stepped through the tall brass doors of Agapi Bistro + Garden. There’s a welcoming feeling here and a sense of family.
Agapi has only been open since 2021, but don’t think for a minute that this place is run by a newcomer. Executive Chef Gus Silivos’ family has been a part of the Pensacola restaurant scene since 1959 whey they opened Skopelos. I’ll do the math for you — that’s over 63 years!
A New Venture
The most recent iteration of Skopelos on Palafox Street was shuttered after Hurricane Sally caused major damage to the kitchen. That’s when Gus and his team set sights on the bright blue building in East Pensacola Heights at 555 Scenic Highway.
Gus is from Greece and grew up on the beautiful Mediterranean. He has melded that rich cultural heritage with local ingredients and bounty from the Gulf Coast in creating his new concept.
You won’t find gyros and moussaka here — but, not to worry, there are enough menu choices to make your decision on what to order the hardest thing you’ll do all day.
Off to a Good Start
For starters, there’s the Chargrilled Octopus poached in olive oil served with charred lemon and a pickled pepper medley vinaigrette.
We loved Agapi’s twist on the classic Greek salad, the Grilled Grecian: the romaine is charred and the feta is torched making for one perfect bite.
Vegetarians will want to try their Watermelon Poke Bowl overflowing with fresh veggies. The star of the dish, slow-roasted watermelon, mimics tuna so well that we did a double take!
Why Go to Maine for Lobster Rolls?
They offer two versions of lobster rolls, Maine and Connecticut. I’ve been to Maine and tried their version, mixed with a mayo dressing, so I ordered the Connecticut style — sweet lobster meat tossed in melted butter on a warm soft split-top roll. Sorry Maine, Connecticut wins this round.
You can dine indoors, al fresco on the covered patio or at tables along the front of the restaurant.
Agapi’s dinner menu offers fedelini pasta tossed with fresh royal red shrimp, cremini mushrooms, black truffle cream and shaved Parmesan.
Steak lovers will be happy to see a half-pound of Angus beef filet on the menu. The Black and Blue filet is covered with blue cheese and bacon gratin atop a bed of creamy polenta.
Raising the Bar
Gus’s wife, Bianca, handles front of the house operations and is the wine director. The couple want to ‘raise the bar’ on the cocktail and wine experience locally, and you’ll notice their attention to detail with one sip of their signature cocktails.
The Med Mule is a blend of fig vodka, ginger beer, lime juice, garnished with sun-dried fig and a fresh thyme sprig. The Bianca is a refreshing mixture of gin, pear nectar, and Prosecco garnished with dehydrated pear.
Agapi is a great spot to meet your friends for Happy Hour. The menu includes select appetizers, house well drinks made with organic liquor and wines all priced at $5.55, a nod to the restaurant’s address.
Pastry Chef Megan McLean shows off her creativity in her ‘Chocuterie’ Board, a delicious spread of house-curated chocolates, fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, nuts and other goodies — definitely fun to share with the table.
Elizabeth’s Take
Agapi is Greece meets Pensacola, Florida. From the minute you walk in you immediately feel the love and passion that embodies everyone that works here. What a cozy vibe! From the watermelon poke to the chargrilled octopus, this place is a culinary heaven.
Ali’s Take
I had such a hard time deciding what to order. I love the bright blue building and the feeling of belonging here and I can see why they have a steady flow of regulars. Agapi is a great spot for a casual lunch with friends or a romantic dinner with someone special.
What Makes Agapi Bistro + Garden Special
Bianca says, “The team at Agapi has been together for several years. There’s a feeling of unity and love and family. Agapi means ultimate love, and that’s what we brought here through food, community and togetherness.”
Good to Know
Agapi Bistro + Garden
555 Scenic Hwy.
Penscola, Florida
850-813-LOVE
Hours: (Please call to confirm hours)
LUNCH Tuesday – Friday 11 am until 2 pm
DINNER Tuesday – Saturday 4 pm until close
HAPPY HOUR Tuesday – Thursday 4 pm until 6 pm
BRUNCH Saturday 10 am until 2 pm
CLOSED Sunday and Monday
- Agapi loves to supports local artisans and vendors. The large octopus wall art is the work of local artist Homer Jolly. The hand-crafted bar using reclaimed wood as well as all of the charcuterie boards are by local craftsman Kasia Szabol. The flower arrangements on each table are created from shaved wood by Posh + Pretty Wood Flowers.
- Agapi Bistro’s front patio is always dog friendly.
- Agapi Garden, nestled directly behind the Bistro, is available for private events. There’s also a private room inside Agapi that seats fourteen for smaller intimate gatherings.
- Agapi offers seven different wine flights, five different spirit flights, and three different whiskey flights to accompany your meal.
- If you’re looking to mingle with fellow wine lovers, Agapi Wine Club offers a monthly wine tasting hosted by experts paired with yummy bites from Agapi. For details on the membership-only club and its benefits you can email bianca@myagapi.com.
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