Acclaimed Washington, D.C., dining concept will bring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and hospitality to downtown Sarasota
Balos Restaurant, the elevated Washington, D.C., dining destination known for its contemporary approach to Mediterranean cuisine and hospitality, will open its first Florida location at The Edge Sarasota, the luxury condominium development at 290 Cocoanut Ave. in downtown Sarasota. The Sarasota location marks an important expansion for the restaurant group and its first entry into the Florida market.
The approximately 7,200-square-foot restaurant will be open to the public, bringing a new dining destination to The Edge and further expanding the mix of sophisticated culinary, cultural, and residential experiences in the heart of downtown.
Inspired by the Greek Islands
Balos was created by longtime friends and hospitality entrepreneurs Stefanos Vouvoudakis, Tom Tsiplakos and Joe Ragonese. Inspired by the Balos lagoon in Crete, the restaurant combines Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with an energetic, contemporary dining experience. Its menu emphasizes seafood, seasonal ingredients and dishes designed for sharing, reflecting the Greek tradition of gathering around the table.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with JEBCO Ventures and ORE Development to bring Balos to Florida for the first time,” said Stefanos Vouvoudakis, co-founder of Balos Restaurant Group. “Sarasota felt like a natural home for Balos—the coastal setting, energy and lifestyle align so well with who we are. We look forward to bringing the spirit of the Greek islands to downtown Sarasota through fresh seafood, vibrant Mediterranean flavors and the lively, welcoming hospitality that defines the Balos experience. As the sole retail anchor tenant at The Edge, we have a unique opportunity to create something special for the community and introduce a dining experience unlike anything currently in the area.”
A New Downtown Destination
For project developers ORE Development and JEBCO Ventures, bringing Balos to The Edge reflects a broader commitment to creating a development that contributes to the downtown Sarasota community as well as the amenities of those who call The Edge home.
“We have been highly selective about the concepts we bring to The Edge because we believe great development should contribute something meaningful to the community around it,” said Lee Smith, partner with Sadek Omar in ORE Development. “Our focus is on attracting exceptional operators and experiences that enhance downtown Sarasota for residents and visitors alike. Balos brings the caliber of cuisine, hospitality and energy we envisioned for this location, and we are especially excited that it will be a destination the entire community can enjoy.”
About The Edge Sarasota
The Edge is a 10-story boutique condominium featuring 27 luxury residences with panoramic views, floor-to-ceiling windows and an extensive collection of private residential amenities. The development is located at 290 Cocoanut Ave., near Sarasota’s downtown and bayfront.
Michael Saunders & Company serves as the exclusive sales and marketing representative for The Edge Sarasota through its Developer Services Division. Working in collaboration with the development team, the division oversees the project’s residential sales and marketing strategy, including buyer engagement, inventory and sales activity for its 27 residences. Sales are currently underway for two- and three-bedroom residences at The Edge.
About Balos
Balos is an energized Mediterranean dining experience inspired by a lush lagoon in Crete, blending old-world charm with modern elegance. Led by Executive Chef Alex Oradei, the Balos menu highlights fresh seafood and seasonal Mediterranean ingredients.
The restaurant group was founded by industry veterans and lifelong friends Stefanos Vouvoudakis, Tom Tsiplakos, and Joe Ragonese after the success of their luxury coffee brand For Five Coffee Roasters. What began as a local roasting operation in Queens, New York in 2010, has since evolved into one of the country’s fastest-growing specialty coffee platforms, with more than 30 cafés nationwide and over 3,500 wholesale accounts across the United States.
About JEBCO Ventures & ORE Development
JEBCO Ventures & ORE Development is a real estate development firm dedicated to redefining the built environment through the creation of timeless, innovative spaces that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Guided by a vision to shape vibrant communities and leave a lasting legacy of excellence, the company combines meticulous design, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to quality in every project.
At the core of JEBCO Ventures & ORE Development’s philosophy is the belief that exceptional developments are built on a foundation of integrity, innovation, and attention to detail. The company approaches each project as an opportunity to push boundaries and deliver transformative experiences, creating spaces that not only serve today's needs but also inspire and resonate for generations to come.
