Cooper Avenue Opens Today In South Beach (Photos)

Laine Doss

Amir Ben-Zion's long-awaited eatery, Cooper Avenue, finally opens today. What started as Gigi Village has now morphed into a new concept that features New American cuisine -- contemporary dishes with a few twists.

Last night, we were invited to the friends and family preview, which allowed us to scope out the whole menu for free. The selection isn't terribly complicated; items are divided into starters, salads, raw bar, entrees, family style, steaks, sauces, and sides. Prices range from $7 to $75 making Cooper Avenue a bit pricier than its sister, Gigi. That being said, both starters and entrees are big, hearty, and sharable.

And if you're wondering what the space looks like beyond the brown paper, well, it feels very familiar -- industrial with blond wood table tops, much like Gigi. (Hey, if ain't broke...)

But unlike Gigi there are specialty cocktails priced at $11, along with beer and wine offerings.

Right now only the restaurant portion of this enormous space is open, but Ben-Zion told us last night that the deli, coffee shop, and bakery would open on October 9.

Until then, continue on for some photos of some of the items we ate.

Jose D. Duran

Cooper Avenue's full menu

Jose D. Duran

Daisy with Milagro tequila, yellow chartreuse, and passion fruit ($11)

Jose D. Duran

Daiquiri with Bacardi rum, lime, and sugar ($11)