Hospitality veteran Nicola Siervo is returning to his restaurant roots with Mercante, a new Italian restaurant and piano bar expected to open on the Miami River in late 2026.
Located at 404 NW North River Drive, Mercante is a partnership between Siervo and Roman Jones of House Kiki, the hospitality group behind Kiki on the River and Habibi. The 175-seat waterfront restaurant will draw inspiration from the Italian Riviera, combining coastal Italian cuisine with live entertainment and a supper-club atmosphere.
Siervo has been part of Miami’s hospitality and nightlife scene since the 1990s, with concepts including Bang, Joia, Quattro, and Wall.
“The buzz around the Miami River reminds me of how it felt back when Miami Beach was on the rise,” Siervo says. “Being waterfront was key and the Miami River is the perfect setting.”
Mercante’s menu will feature freshly made pastas, seafood, crudo, salads, house-made breads, desserts and gelato, along with an Italian street-food bar menu. A dedicated meatball menu will pair different preparations with beverages. The drinks program will include an all-Italian wine list and Italian-inspired cocktails.
Designed by Miami-based Nikolai Design and House Kiki chief design officer Mark Lehmkuhl, the restaurant will feature a Venetian-inspired dining room, piano lounge and waterfront terrazza. Entertainment will range from live piano and bands to karaoke. A 150-foot dock will provide boat access, while a dockside private dining area will accommodate up to 20 guests. Mercante plans to serve lunch and dinner seven days a week, with brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
