Following the success of Isabel’s in Burton-upon-Trent, UK DJ and entrepreneur Nathan Dawe brings the next chapter of his dream to life – this time on the sun-drenched shores of Zakynthos. Named in honour of his late grandmother, Isabel’s has always been about more than food and drink. It’s about atmosphere, energy, and creating unforgettable moments.
Having spent many summers on the island, Nathan fell in love with the relaxed rhythm of Zante life. One spot in particular kept drawing him back – Cool Peppers, a much-loved beachfront restaurant known for its unbeatable setting and laid-back charm. When the opportunity arose to collaborate with its original owner, the stars aligned.
With an existing DJ residency at Ikon and deep local ties, Nathan saw the potential to build something truly special: a premium beach restaurant and bar that blends the soul of Cool Peppers with the elevated hospitality of Isabel’s. The vision? To transform the space into a must-visit destination, from sun-drenched afternoons to music-fuelled evenings.
We were appointed to reimagine the interiors, tasked with creating a setting that feels just as inviting by day as it does by night. Shaded lounging was a key priority – offering guests a chance to relax out of the midday heat. While local planning constraints meant the bar had to remain indoors, our response was to blur the boundaries between inside and out, designing a seamless spatial flow with LED lighting that extends from the central bar to the outdoor canopy, echoing the vibrant energy that radiates through the venue.
The result is a space that captures the essence of island living—with Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates, colourful cocktails, and a soundtrack that takes you from laid-back beachside to late-night celebration.
