Exploring Miami’s Classic Culinary Delights: A Food Lover’s Guide to the City’s Best
Miami, the vibrant heart of South Florida, has always been known for its dazzling art scene but this year, there’s more to explore beyond the contemporary art and hipster hotels. The city’s culinary landscape is witnessing a renaissance, with a series of classic eateries and new hotspots making waves. From Brickell to Sunny Isles, let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through Miami’s most iconic dining destinations.
Casadonna: Italian Riviera Vibes in Miami’s Historic Woman’s Club David Grutman’s Groot Hospitality, in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality, has reimagined a space in Miami’s historic Woman’s Club into Casadonna. This Italian Riviera-inspired restaurant serves a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. The space, designed by Ken Fulk, reflects a blend of gold and greenery, paying homage to the room’s historic past.
Pastis in Wynwood: A Touch of France Under the Miami Sun Keith McNally, a name synonymous with New York’s bustling restaurant scene, has brought his magic to South Florida with Pastis in Wynwood. Opened in April, Pastis presents a menu brimming with Escoffier-esque classics like duck à l’orange and Dover sole à la meunière. The ambiance is far from a traditional Lyonnaise bouchon; imagine dining under globe lights with rustic wood furniture, surrounded by an airy garden.
Rao’s Miami Beach: A Slice of New York in Loews Miami Beach Rao’s, an iconic New York eatery known for its clubby vibe and Italian cuisine, has opened its doors in Miami Beach. Their new outpost at Loews Miami Beach offers not just their signature meatballs and Sunday gravy, but also adds a Miami twist with a seafood tower and fresh catch of the day. The decor is a blend of classic and contemporary, maintaining Rao’s essence with a Miami-style uplift.
Tala Beach: Mediterranean Vibes at 1 Hotel South Beach Finally, Tala Beach at 1 Hotel South Beach is the new, Mediterranean-inspired beach club. The reimagined space boasts daybeds, outdoor bars, and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying cocktails like the Santorini Sunrise.
Amelia’s 1931: Where Latin Meets Asian Cuisine Tucked behind a defunct dry cleaner, Amelia’s 1931 offers a surprising fusion of Latin and Asian cuisines. Chef Eileen Andrade has transformed this space into a retro dining paradise, complete with a speak-easy vibe and a menu that features delights like gochujang paella and arroz con pato.
Tablé by Antonio Bachour: A Pastry Chef’s Parisian Dream Antonio Bachour, celebrated for his pastry skills, has launched Tablé in the Design District. This Parisian-style brasserie blends French and Middle Eastern flavors with dishes like chilled lobster Andalouse and avocado hummus. The ambiance strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Brasserie Laurel: French Elegance at Miami Worldcenter At the base of Miami Worldcenter’s Caoba tower lies Brasserie Laurel, a creation of Ariete Hospitality Group and Michelin-starred chef Michael Beltran. The menu is an ode to French classics, featuring caviar, frog legs, and escargot. The setting complements the exquisite menu, ensuring a sophisticated dining experience.
In Miami, the adage “everything old is new again” rings especially true. These culinary havens, blending classic charm with modern twists, are testaments to the city’s evolving and vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visiting gourmet, these spots are not to be missed on your next Miami adventure.
Celebrate the New Year in Miami Style: A Guide to the Hottest Parties of 2023
As we bid farewell to 2023, Miami is gearing up to welcome 2024 with a grand celebration. Below are our favorite New Year’s Eve celebrations that will guarantee fun, entertainment, and a lifetime of memories.
A Star-Studded New Year’s Eve at Fontainebleau
Get ready for an unforgettable poolside bash at the Fontainebleau, headlined by none other than the sensational rapper Cardi B. Adding to the glamour, Offset, will set the stage on fire at the nightclub LIV.
Diverse Celebrations Across Miami
We Belong Here: Experience an electrifying celebration at the Alfred I. duPont Building featuring artists like Calussa, Kimonos, Nitefreak, and Night Tales.
Club Rudy’s and Rose Gold’s Takeover: Ian Asher headlines the party at the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, promising a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Notable New Year’s Celebrations
Gene On Earth: Usher in 2024 with a sleek musical performance.
Nicki Minaj at Y100’s Jingle Ball: Get ready for a night filled with glamour and excitement.
Magic City Hippies’ Homecoming Bash: Join the decade-long musical journey at this New Year’s Eve celebration.
A Diverse Array of New Year’s Eve Events
From 50 Cent’s performance at M2 to Afrojack’s electrifying set at Daer Nightclub, Miami offers a range of events catering to different tastes. Whether it’s the Arabian Nights theme at the Manor or the eclectic mix at Arlo Wynwood, there’s something for everyone.
Bayfront Park offers a family-friendly environment with free admission, while the Captain’s Ball at the Wharf Fort Lauderdale adds a touch of luxury to your celebrations.
No matter how you choose to ring in the new year, Miami promises a night filled with excitement, music, and unforgettable experiences.
The Fifth Miami Beach Sets a New Standard in Luxury Commercial Real Estate
We are thrilled to share some groundbreaking news from the world of real estate development. Sumaida + Khurana and Bizzi + Bilgili, two of the most esteemed real estate development firms on the global stage, have recently announced a significant financial milestone. They have successfully secured $47.25 million in construction financing from Cain International for an exciting new project: The Fifth Miami Beach.
This state-of-the-art Class A+ office building, located at 950 5th Street, is making history as the first commercial edifice to be erected in Miami’s South of Fifth neighborhood in two decades. The design mastermind behind this architectural marvel is none other than Alberto Campo Baeza, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in architecture. Baeza, recently crowned with Spain’s National Prize for Architecture, has chosen The Fifth Miami Beach as his maiden commercial office project in the United States.
The Fifth Miami Beach isn’t just another addition to the skyline. It’s a redefinition of the modern office experience, blending striking design with a strong emphasis on health and wellness. The project, which broke ground recently, is slated for completion in 2025. Impressively, it has already pre-leased nearly 20% of its space.
Amit Khurana, Founding Partner of Sumaida + Khurana, describes The Fifth Miami Beach as a blend of “timeless design, quality of craftsmanship, and curated amenities,” all aimed at setting a new benchmark in commercial development. Meanwhile, Alessandro Pallaoro of Bizzi & Partners highlights Miami’s growing status as a hub for influential companies and the significance of this project in reinforcing the city’s position in the business world.
Sumaida + Khurana and Bizzi+Bilgili are powerhouses in their own right. The former is steered by Saif Sumaida and Amit Khurana, while the latter represents a joint venture between Bizzi & Partners and Bilgili’s private equity real estate arm, BLG Capital.
Global commercial real estate titan, Cushman & Wakefield, is at the forefront of office leasing efforts for this project, with Avenue Real Estate Partners handling the retail leasing. The building’s strategic location at the entrance to Miami Beach, at the corner of Michigan and Fifth Street, positions it perfectly within the rapidly evolving South of Fifth neighborhood, a hotspot for upscale dining, hotels, and residences.
The design team for The Fifth Miami Beach reads like a who’s who of the architectural world. Alberto Campo Baeza, Gabellini Sheppard Associates, Cube 3, and Miami-based Urban Robot Associates come together to create a building that is a visual feast. The building’s design is a stunning jewel box shape, characterized by a façade of white marble, transparent glass, and architectural concrete. It boasts ceiling heights of 14 feet and incorporates biophilic design elements like landscaped outdoor terraces and a triple-height atrium.
The crowning glory is the rooftop space, offering panoramic views of the ocean and Miami Beach. The building is not just about aesthetics; it is also designed to meet LEED certification standards, emphasizing sustainability.
Sneak Peek into the Miami 2024 International Boat Show
The Miami 2024 International Boat Show will once again set sail, bringing together the world’s most luxurious yachts, innovative watercraft, and nautical aficionados. The 2024 event promises an unforgettable experience with a showcase of the latest advancements in marine technology and design.
Located in the heart of Miami, the boat show transforms the city into a nautical paradise. Attendees are welcomed by a dazzling display of yachts and boats, ranging from sleek speedboats to opulent super-yachts.
What’s New in 2024?
Innovation is at the forefront of the Miami 2024 Boat Show. This year features:
Eco-Friendly Vessels: A dedicated section for green technology, showcasing hybrid and electric boats that are making waves in sustainable marine travel.
Interactive Exhibitions: From virtual reality boating experiences to hands-on sailing simulations, there’s something for everyone.
World-Class Seminars: Industry leaders and maritime experts share insights on topics like ocean conservation, boat maintenance, and navigational technology.
Not Just for Boat Lovers
The show isn’t just for marine enthusiasts. It’s a family-friendly event with a variety of activities:
Gourmet Food Stalls: Savor the flavors of Miami with a selection of local and international cuisine.
Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy performances from some of the best local artists, creating a lively atmosphere.
Kids’ Zone: A special area designed for the youngest visitors, filled with fun and educational activities.
The Miami 2024 International Boat Show is more than an exhibition; it’s a celebration of maritime culture. It’s where the global boating community comes together to share their passion, knowledge, and love for the sea. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a boating enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, this event promises something memorable for everyone.
Plan Your Visit:
Dates: February 14th-18th, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center
Tickets: Available online and at the venue. Special discounts for early birds and group bookings.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary maritime gathering. Set your course for the Miami 2024 International Boat Show and dive into the world of luxury, innovation, and nautical adventure!
Coral Gables’ 4225 Ponce Development, a Class A+ Commercial and Retail Opportunity
Constellation Group, a distinguished commercial real estate investment and development firm based in Miami, in collaboration with The Boschetti Group, has successfully secured a substantial $33 million construction loan from Miami’s Banesco USA and Abanca. This funding is a strategic investment in the development of a Class A+ boutique office and retail complex at 4225 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, located in the heart of Coral Gables, South Florida’s City Beautiful and Merrick Park district. Renowned for its upscale shopping and entertainment, this area is a hub for economic growth and opportunity.
Eduardo Otaola, the Managing Principal at Constellation Group, highlighted the significance of this partnership and the potential of 4225 Ponce to introduce a unique, boutique-style Class A office environment to Coral Gables. This development is strategically positioned in a market that is currently experiencing limited supply, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
The project involves an eight-story building, spanning approximately 85,000 square feet between 4225 and 4311 Ponce de Leon. This venture is distinguished by its innovative design from the internationally acclaimed architectural firm, Arquitectonica. The luxury boutique-style Class A Office will feature 5,900 square feet of ground floor retail space, extensive parking facilities, 70,000 square feet of premium office space, and a rooftop food and beverage venue of 7,000 square feet, offering panoramic city views.
Amelia Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of Banesco USA, expressed optimism about the sustained economic growth in South Florida and the role of 4225 Ponce in enriching Coral Gables’ status as a prime business and cultural hub. This project aligns with Banesco USA’s vision of investing in innovative and dynamic projects, indicating a strong future for similar endeavors.
Monica Vasquez, General Manager at Abanca, emphasized the transformative nature of this collaboration, aimed at enhancing the urban, cultural, and economic landscape of Coral Gables. This development is a testament to Abanca’s commitment to supporting visionary and impactful projects.
Set to break ground in Q4 2023 and slated for completion in 2025, this project signifies a major revitalization initiative around Coral Gables’ Merrick Park district. It aims to elevate the business and consumer landscape of the area. Interior Architects, Inc. and Naturalificial will play crucial roles in designing the interior and landscape, ensuring a harmonious blend of nature and modernity.
Investors should note the project’s unique features, including four stories of Class A+ office space, a rooftop restaurant with city views, outdoor terraces, ground-floor retail spaces, and a 1,500-square-foot lounge. The addition of a covered pedestrian plaza and paseo with valet parking service is expected to enhance the appeal and functionality of the development, making it a lucrative investment opportunity in a thriving economic zone.
Urban Network Capital Group & Vertical Developments Launch Visions at Brickell Station
In a significant stride for the Miami real estate market, Urban Network Capital Group (UNCG), in collaboration with Vertical Developments, has proudly announced securing a substantial $24.5 million construction loan from Rok Lending. This financial boost is earmarked for the exciting Visions at Brickell Station project, a wellness-focused condo-hotel poised to redefine luxury living in Miami’s vibrant Brickell neighborhood, with a planned 2025 completion.
Nestled at 1136 SW 3rd Ave., this impressive eight-story development will feature 111 elegantly designed, move-in-ready units. With prices starting at $500,000, these units offer a variety of floor plans, ranging from cozy studios to spacious one-bedrooms, each no more than 539 square feet in size. What sets Visions at Brickell Station apart is its commitment to wellness, with each residence and amenity space meticulously designed to promote a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Owning a condo-hotel unit at Visions at Brickell Station isn’t just about luxury living; it’s an investment in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the world. Owners enjoy the dual benefits of having an exclusive retreat in Miami and the potential for income generation. When not in use by the owner, who can stay up to 30 nights per year, these units will be professionally managed, ensuring a high-end resort experience for all guests.
Robert Thorne, CEO of UNCG, highlights wellness as the project’s cornerstone. The innovative design caters to buyers seeking both luxury and functionality in the heart of Miami. From circadian lighting to vitamin C shower filters, every aspect of the condo-hotel is crafted to enhance wellbeing.
The property boasts extensive wellness amenities, including a tranquil spa, cutting-edge gym, and a rooftop pool. Additionally, it offers a restaurant, bar, and corporate meeting space, ensuring every need is met within this $45 million project.
UNCG and Vertical Developments aren’t stopping at Brickell. They’re also developing Visions Resort & Spa in Orlando. This $170 million project, minutes from Disney World, promises an eco-friendly community with diverse residential options. It’s another example of how these companies blend luxury with sustainable living.
Urban Network Capital Group, led by experienced developer Robert Thorne, specializes in eco-friendly communities in Florida and Texas. Vertical Developments, a joint venture with a $2 billion portfolio, brings high-value real estate opportunities, combining innovative investment strategies with a deep understanding of market cycles.
For investors seeking opportunities in high-growth areas like Miami and Orlando, Visions at Brickell Station and Visions Resort & Spa represent not just luxurious living spaces but smart, forward-thinking investments in some of the most dynamic real estate markets today.
Strategic Utilities Deal for 600 Miami Worldcenter in the Park West Neighborhood
In a significant move underlining its market savvy and strategic planning, a collaboration has been formed between the developers of 600 Miami Worldcenter and Miami-Dade’s Water and Sewer Department. This partnership ensures the provision of utilities for this ambitious project, marking a critical step in its progress.
The 31-story tower, a centerpiece in the Miami Worldcenter development, has moved into the construction permitting phase. This development, handled by the renowned Beauchamp Construction Co., signifies a robust investment opportunity in one of Miami’s most vibrant and growing areas.
Highlights of 600 Miami Worldcenter:
615 Residential Units: High potential for sustained rental income or resale value in a thriving market.
4,500 Square Feet Full-Service Restaurant: Adds a valuable commercial component, attracting both residents and visitors.
6,000 Square Feet Fitness Center: Enhances lifestyle appeal, increasing the attractiveness for potential residents.
The project has already gained momentum with the Urban Development Review Board’s endorsement in July, indicating strong local support and a green light for the forward-moving design and construction phases.
David Arditi’s involvement, representing the developing entity, and the formal utilities agreement recorded on December 19, further solidify the project’s foundation. Aria Development and Merrimac Ventures, standing behind this venture, bring a wealth of experience and a track record of successful developments.
For more information and to discuss investment opportunities, contact Lucas Lechuga via email at [email protected] or by phone at (786)247-6332.
Mariners Bay Condo Set to Transform into a 20 Story Development
The Mariners Bay Condo, a familiar name for those who know the area, is set for a transformative makeover. Imagine a stunning 20-story building rising majestically, offering 267 units of luxurious living space. This unnamed development isn’t just a condo; it’s a lifestyle upgrade waiting to happen.
The proposed project will include 12 townhomes and a range of condos from one to three bedrooms. Development amenities include a fifth-floor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, children’s playroom and media room. The project also calls for 433 parking spaces.
Set to be located at 12000 N. Bayshore Drive, North Miami, Florida, 33181, this development promises an ideal balance of serene residential living and convenient access to Miami’s vibrant life. It’s a short drive from the beautiful Oleta State Park and just east of I-95.
Plans include revamping the 20-slip marina, adding yet another luxurious touch to this already promising development.
While the project awaits approval, it’s exciting to think about the potential transformation of the Mariners Bay Condo, a structure from the 1980s in need of significant repairs, into a modern haven.
Discover Culinary Elegance at Casa Ya’ax Miami
Chef Omar Montero, a talent hailing from Mexico, has brought his unique flair to Miami’s dynamic food scene. In 2017, he started with La Santa Taqueria, initially a food truck and later a standalone restaurant in the Little River neighborhood, specializing in simple yet exquisite street tacos. Now, Montero has expanded his culinary repertoire with the opening of Casa Ya’ax in Wynwood, a more sophisticated venture that still holds true to his philosophy of simplicity, but within a more upscale setting.
Casa Ya’ax, situated on 24th Street, near the bustling Oasis Wynwood, is the perfect spot for those seeking to indulge in the rich and authentic flavors of Mexico. Chef Montero, a graduate of Anahuac University in Mexico City with experience at the Setai Hotel Miami Beach and Veinte Deli & Cafe in downtown Miami, has long envisioned Casa Ya’ax as a place to celebrate Mexico’s diverse and exquisite coastal cuisine.
Unlike La Santa’s playful pink exterior, Casa Ya’ax offers an earthier ambiance with carved wood tables and woven rattan lampshades. Its covered outdoor patio doubles as a lounge, featuring a DJ, special lighting, and a cooling misting system for warmer days. The menu is a culinary adventure, featuring dishes like beef short ribs with three chiles, white corn and red quinoa with pork belly and rock shrimp, and aguachile arrachera in black sauce. For those who enjoy the finer things, there are raw bar items and grilled selections, including Takamori A5 wagyu, OMI wagyu, and USDA prime cuts.
Casa Ya’ax isn’t just about food. It offers an exquisite cocktail program with signature drinks like the Sel Va Tik and the Espresso Oaxaca, a unique take on the espresso martini. The wine list boasts a selection of fine Mexican wines, adding to the upscale experience.
Located at 51 NE 24th St., Suite 101, you can find more information at casayaax.com or by calling 305-456-9258.
3900 Alton Road Development Tops Off Construction
Mast Capital, together with its partner Rockpoint, has recently celebrated a significant achievement in their construction project at 3900 Alton Road. This new nine-story building in Miami Beach, a creation of renowned Arquitectonica with landscape design by Within Hults + Partners, introduces 178 upscale units to the market.
The project, managed by Kaufman Lynn Construction as the general contractor, was recently highlighted in a LinkedIn video marking its topping-off ceremony. JGR Construction, Inc. and US American Concrete are handling key structural and concrete aspects of the construction, with Coastal Metal and AKO Plumbing Corp contributing to the metalwork and plumbing, respectively. Additionally, two tower cranes from Morrow Equipment and formwork solutions from Doka USA are in place, while NV5, Inc. oversees construction materials testing.
Funded by a $64 million loan from PNC Bank in November 2022, the groundbreaking of this Miami Beach residential project set the stage for its anticipated completion. The first units are expected to be available by Fall 2024, in line with Mast Capital and Rockpoint’s aim to offer high-quality living spaces in a sought-after South Florida neighborhood.
Camilo Miguel Jr., CEO of Mast Capital, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing its unique position in the Miami Beach real estate market, known for its limited availability of developable land. Unlike most new developments in the area that focus on properties for sale, this project targets the growing demand for luxury rental housing.
The building’s design features a blend of luxury and functionality, offering studio to three-bedroom apartments with high-end finishes like Italian cabinetry, porcelain flooring, and spacious balconies. The development also boasts amenities such as an elevated pool deck with bay views, BBQ and outdoor gaming areas, fitness and yoga studios, a resident lounge, co-working spaces, and a pet washing station.
Dan Domb, Managing Member at Rockpoint, also highlighted the importance of this development. He noted the strong demand for premium rentals in Miami Beach and the partnership’s strategy to invest in multifamily residences in the high-demand, limited-supply South Florida housing market.
Mast Capital’s significant role in Florida’s real estate scene is underscored by its diverse portfolio, which includes various residential and commercial properties across the region. The firm’s ambitious growth strategy involves acquisitions totaling over $3.5 billion in project capitalization and developing more than 4,000 residential units in South Florida’s Fort Myers and Tampa metro areas.
