A Legacy of Flavor: The Story Behind Enology Wine Bar & Bistro
From the moment I could reach the kitchen counter, I was immersed in a world of flavors, aromas, and culinary artistry. My father, a master of traditional Greek cuisine, ran a Greek-French fusion restaurant in Brooklyn Heights, where he poured his heart into time-honored recipes. My mother, on the other hand, was a visionary—effortlessly blending contemporary techniques with bold, inspired flavors. Together, they created dishes that honored tradition while embracing innovation, and in that kitchen, my own passion for food was born.
Cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it's an opportunity to tell a story, to create an experience that lingers beyond the last bite," says Dr. Dimitrios “Jimmy” Kilimitzoglou, Founder of Enology Wine Bar & Bistro
Cooking, for me, became more than a skill—it was a form of expression, a way to craft edible art that brought people joy. The rush of a busy kitchen, the intensity of the heat, the symphony of clattering pans and sizzling ingredients—while demanding, it was always exhilarating. And nothing compared to the feeling of watching a customer take that first bite, eyes lighting up with delight. It was in those moments that I knew: this was my calling.
But my love for food was only half of the story.
Growing up, I would watch my mother unwind with a glass of wine, swirling it thoughtfully, savoring each sip. To my young and inexperienced palate, it was just bitter grape juice. But she would talk about wine with such reverence, describing flavors of dark fruit, toffee, tobacco, or butterscotch. She spoke of acidity, body, and tannins as if they were characters in an intricate story. I was captivated—not just by the flavors she described but by the journey each bottle represented, the craftsmanship, the terroir, the generations of dedication behind each pour.
That curiosity evolved into a lifelong pursuit. I read, I studied, I traveled, visiting renowned wine regions, tasting, learning, and deepening my appreciation for the complexity and history in every glass. Before my parents passed, I shared my dream with them: to create a place where my two greatest passions—wine and food—could come together in a way that truly connected people.
"I wanted to build something more than just a restaurant—I wanted to create a gathering place where people could celebrate life, love, and the simple pleasure of a great meal paired with a perfect glass of wine," says Dr. Dimitrios “Jimmy” Kilimitzoglou, Founder of Enology Wine Bar & Bistro.
I envisioned a warm, inviting bistro where guests could explore a carefully curated selection of wines, from rare varietals to approachable favorites. A place where wine flights, small pours, and thoughtful pairings would introduce guests to new experiences. A kitchen that celebrated fresh, locally sourced ingredients, crafting dishes that would surprise and inspire. But more than anything, I dreamed of a space where people could gather, laugh, and create memories—where every visit felt special, where every sip and bite told a story.
When I told my parents about my vision, their response was immediate and unwavering: Yes. This would work. Not just because they understood the restaurant business, but because they knew that anything built on genuine passion, love, and authenticity was bound to succeed. Their belief in me fueled my determination to bring Enology Wine Bar & Bistro to life.
I was fortunate to have a friend in Eddie Galatoulas, a visionary in the restaurant industry who built the Burgerology brand and several other successful dining establishments. Eddie’s passion for hospitality, commitment to exceptional service, and deep understanding of what makes a restaurant thrive made him the perfect partner. When he heard about Enology, he didn’t just support the idea—he wanted to be a part of it. His expertise ensures that our operations run seamlessly, that our guests receive the best experience possible, and that Enology is surrounded by a team of industry professionals who share the same vision.
Enology is more than a wine bar and bistro. It’s a tribute to the traditions that shaped me, the flavors that inspired me, and the people who believed in me. It’s a place where the stories of wine and food come alive, where guests can embark on their own journeys of taste and discovery.
I invite you to join us at Enology—to raise a glass, share a meal, and become part of our story.
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