The culinary landscape along South A1A in Vero Beach is experiencing an exciting wave of transformation. After 15 years of serving the barrier island community, the beloved Johnny D’s Market & Bistro is preparing to close its doors this October for an extensive, year-long renovation project. However, loyal patrons will not have to travel far to find their friendly faces and familiar flavors, as the operation is migrating across the street to a brand-new dining and retail complex.
In a social media announcement regarding the future of the casual eatery, operators Nina and Mario Amelio shared their transition plans with the Vero Beach community:
While it will certainly be bittersweet to close our doors, the good news is we aren’t going far. During our renovation, we invite you to visit our family just across the street at the new Turtle Cove Market where you’ll find many of Johnny D’s things you already know and love, including many of your favorite foods, specialty items and wines.
The Vision for Turtle Cove Market and Blu Fin
The changes are part of a broader real estate and culinary revitalization spearheaded by Anthony DeChellis, a Moorings resident and the principal of Windward Restaurants Concepts. DeChellis owns the current Johnny D’s building, the adjacent commercial property to the south, and the newly developed Turtle Cove complex situated directly across the road. His overarching goal is to cultivate a series of premium dining and retail establishments that the South Beach community can be proud to support.
The new Turtle Cove enterprise will feature an upscale market, a tiki bar, and a fine-dining restaurant known as Blu Fin. The management team for this new venture is keeping it in the family, with cousins Nina and Mario Amelio joining the leadership roster. The transition is also preserving local jobs. According to DeChellis, all current employees of Johnny D’s were encouraged to apply at the new complex, with approximately a dozen staff members already securing positions.
The highly anticipated Blu Fin is currently scheduling a soft opening for October 6, with a formal grand opening slated for the second week of the month. Depending on equipment deliveries, the market and restaurant may open their doors simultaneously. DeChellis has noted that local demand is already surging, with residents eagerly calling his personal phone to secure tables, prompting the rapid rollout of a computerized reservation system in the coming weeks.
Local Vero Beach Hiring Success
Staffing a large-scale culinary operation can be a challenge, but the new venture has found robust support within Indian River County. Sebastian La Rocca, the Argentine-born culinary director for the new enterprise, praised the local Vero Beach labor pool. Following two highly successful job fairs aimed at hiring roughly 80 employees, La Rocca noted that 70 percent of the available positions were swiftly filled by candidates showcasing impressive education, training, and energy.
What Is Next for the Johnny D’s Space?
When the original building reopens in October 2027, it will likely debut with a completely new identity. While the exact final design and renovation costs are still being finalized, the space may return to its historical roots. Key potential changes include:
- A High-End Liquor Market: DeChellis’ family previously operated South Beach Liquors on the premises. Since he retains an active liquor license, the renovated space could emerge as a premier wine and spirits shop.
- Elevated Retail Offerings: The shift aims to complement, rather than compete with, the extensive fresh food and dining options that will now be housed at Turtle Cove Market.
Updates on The Tides in Central Beach
This shuffling of A1A real estate follows earlier buzz regarding another Vero Beach staple. Initially, there were discussions that The Tides, a premier fine-dining establishment located in Central Beach, might relocate to DeChellis’ newly acquired building. The move originally posed no direct conflict with Johnny D’s, as the two catered to distinct dining styles—one offering budget-friendly family specials and the other focusing on upscale entrees.
Ultimately, Leanne Kelleher, executive chef of The Tides, opted to remain on Cardinal Drive. Her iconic restaurant will also be reopening its doors this October following a modest two-month closure for property upgrades. Loyal guests can look forward to expanded offerings, including a newly added Sunday brunch service and weekday takeout lunches.
With massive investments breathing new life into local establishments, the upcoming winter season promises an exciting array of dining experiences for Vero Beach residents and visitors alike.
