World Expo 2035 in Miami: What It Could Mean for the City’s Future Growth
The United States has officially announced its intention to bid to host World Expo 2035, with Miami, Florida emerging as the proposed host city — a move that could redefine Miami’s economic trajectory and global status. President Donald Trump confirmed the bid on social media, framing it as a milestone opportunity, and appointed Miami native Secretary of State Marco Rubio to lead the effort.
But what exactly is a World Expo, and why should Miami residents, businesses, and investors care about it?
What Is the World Expo? A Brief History
World Expos — historically known as World’s Fairs — are large-scale international exhibitions where countries, companies, and organizations showcase innovations, cultural achievements, and forward-looking ideas. The tradition traces its roots back to the 1851 Great Exhibition in London under the famous Crystal Palace.
Today, the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris oversees these events, which occur roughly every five years and draw millions of visitors from around the world. The most recent expo took place in Osaka, Japan, in 2025 and welcomed tens of millions of attendees.
The United States hasn’t hosted a World Expo since the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans, making this potential Miami bid particularly notable.
Why Miami? Strategic Advantages for Hosting World Expo 2035
Miami’s bid election is no accident. As the city continues to expand as a financial and cultural hub, neighborhoods like Brickell, Downtown Miami, and Miami Beach have emerged as global-facing districts capable of supporting large-scale international events. Long known as a gateway between the Americas, Miami has:
A thriving tourism industry that already attracts global visitors year-round.
Major international business and trade sectors.
Cultural diversity that resonates with Expo themes.
A strong transportation infrastructure including a major international airport and cruise terminals.
Hosting World Expo 2035 would elevate these natural strengths into lasting global prominence.
One of the clearest benefits — underscored by federal announcements — is the economic impact that a World Expo could have on Miami:
1. Job Creation Across Sectors
A major global event like Expo 2035 would require massive planning, construction, hospitality staffing, transportation services, and tech innovation teams. According to early projections tied to the bid, the event could create thousands of jobs in South Florida.
2. Billions in Economic Growth
President Trump’s announcement highlighted expectations that the expo bid could contribute billions of dollars in economic growth — from planning and construction to multinational participation and tourism revenue.
3. Infrastructure Upgrades
Historically, cities preparing for World Expos invest significantly in transportation, convention space, urban development, and public amenities — all of which can have long-lasting impacts on quality of life and business growth.
4. Tourism and Global Branding
With tens of millions of international visitors drawn to world expos, Miami stands to benefit from elevated tourism — both during the event and in the decades that follow, as global travelers associate the city with innovation and cultural exchange.
How Miami’s 2035 Transformation Could Look
Hosting World Expo 2035 could catalyze several long-term growth trends:
Urban revitalization of key districts hosting expo pavilions.
Sustainable infrastructure investments in transit and public spaces.
Cultural exchange initiatives that strengthen Miami’s identity as a global cultural hub.
Enhanced global business partnerships, especially between the Americas, Asia, and Europe.
By 2035, Miami could extend its reputation — already established as a global city — into new realms of economic leadership and international influence.
Global Context: Expo Competition and Timeline
Several cities and countries are also exploring bids for World Expo 2035, including Berlin, Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, and Busan, South Korea.
The world’s expos continue to operate on a multi-year cycle, with Expo 2030 scheduled for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia under the theme “Foresight For Tomorrow.”
Miami’s bid will face international competition, but the spotlight now firmly rests on South Florida — a region that could benefit enormously from hosting such a defining global event.
Conclusion – A Future Built on Opportunity
If Miami successfully secures the World Expo 2035, the city could see a profound economic and cultural transformation. From millions of international visitors and boosted infrastructure to long-term job creation and global business attention, the stakes are high — and the benefits potentially historic.
Miami’s path to 2035 is shaping up to be one of innovation, opportunity, and global leadership. With the World Expo bid at the center, the city’s future is poised for growth — not just in tourism, but in economic depth and cultural influence.
Pagani Residences and Prestige Imports Launch Auto Privata Automotive Concierge
A white-glove automotive program sets a new benchmark for ultra-luxury living in North Bay Village
Pagani Residences has announced the launch of Auto Privata, a first-of-its-kind automotive concierge program created in partnership with Prestige Imports. Designed exclusively for residents, the bespoke service introduces an entirely new layer of luxury living—where collector-grade automotive care is seamlessly integrated into the residential experience.
The program further elevates Pagani Residences’ positioning as one of South Florida’s most distinctive boutique luxury developments, blending architecture, design, and automotive culture into a unified lifestyle offering.
Automotive Living, Reimagined for Collectors
Auto Privata was created for residents who view automobiles as works of art, engineering, and personal expression. Fully managed through the Pagani Residences mobile app, the program delivers on-demand, white-glove automotive care—ensuring each vehicle is secured, maintained, detailed, and road-ready at all times.
“This partnership brings our philosophy directly into the home,” said Brett David, CEO of Prestige Imports. “Whether it’s preparing a car for a Sunday drive or sourcing a one-off from across the globe, our goal is to make every moment with these automobiles effortless and unforgettable.”
Auto Privata Concierge Services
Core Automotive Concierge Features
Residents gain access to a comprehensive suite of services, including:
Valet parking by trained automotive ambassadors
Monthly digital vehicle condition reports
Maintenance and service scheduling
Personalized recommendations based on vehicle history and preferences
Concierge access via dedicated app or direct line
All services, reports, and scheduling are accessible through the Pagani Residences mobile app, providing a seamless balance of digital convenience and high-touch service.
Subscription and À La Carte Offerings
Auto Privata offers flexible membership tiers and customizable packages tailored to both daily drivers and serious collectors, including:
Climate-controlled storage with biometric access
Professional detailing and restoration services
Door-to-door enclosed transport within Florida and nationwide
Pre-arrival vehicle preparation (fueled, charged, and detailed)
Discreet sourcing of rare, limited-production, and off-market vehicles
Custom modifications and personalization through certified partners
All care is delivered in alignment with manufacturer specifications and collector-grade standards.
Lifestyle & Administrative Support Beyond the Garage
Beyond hands-on vehicle care, Prestige Imports provides lifestyle and administrative services designed for discerning collectors. These include registration and tag renewals, insurance coordination, mileage tracking, and discreet delivery to private airports, restaurants, or social events.
Collectors also benefit from brokered access to rare vehicles through Prestige Imports’ global network, complete with pre-purchase inspections and provenance verification.
A Strategic Partnership Driving Luxury Innovation
According to Mikael Hamaoui, founder and CEO of Riviera Horizons, Auto Privata reflects how South Florida continues to redefine ultra-luxury residential living.
“Pagani Residences is about living at the intersection of art, engineering, and design,” Hamaoui said. “Partnering with Prestige Imports ensures our residents’ vehicles receive the same care and craftsmanship as their homes, delivering peace of mind and the freedom to enjoy their collections at their highest level.”
The Prestige partnership is the latest addition to the Pagani Residences Luxury Lifestyle Program, which curates bespoke services across design, hospitality, and automotive experiences.
Pagani Residences at a Glance
Located on Harbor Island in North Bay Village, Pagani Residences is a 30-story boutique waterfront tower comprising just 70 all-corner residences, including two duplex penthouses and four Sky Residences.
Interiors: Curated by Pagani Arte, founded by Horacio Pagani
Architecture: Designed by Revuelta Architecture
Residences: Two-to-four bedrooms with panoramic waterfront views
Pricing: Starting from $3.7 million
Address: 7940 West Drive, North Bay Village, FL 33141
Amenities include private ensuite elevators, a waterfront lobby, 24-hour concierge service, valet and porte-cochère, a 240-foot boardwalk, and marina frontage along Biscayne Bay.
Why Auto Privata Signals the Future of Ultra-Luxury Living
Auto Privata highlights a growing shift in the ultra-luxury real estate market: residences are evolving into fully curated lifestyle ecosystems. By embedding a comprehensive automotive concierge directly into the residential experience, Pagani Residences positions itself at the forefront of this next generation of luxury living—where architecture, service, and personal passions converge seamlessly.
Cassia Residences at Coral Gables Tops Off
A New Milestone for Cassia Residences at Coral Gables
Cassia Residences at Coral Gables has officially topped off, signaling the completion of its main structural construction and marking a major milestone for one of Coral Gables’ most anticipated new residential developments. The topping-off ceremony confirms that the project remains on schedule as it moves into its final phases of development.
What Does a Topping-Off Mean for Buyers?
A topping-off milestone represents the moment when a building’s structural framework is complete. For buyers and future residents, this is an important sign of progress—moving the project beyond construction and closer to completion, interior finishes, and eventual move-in. At Cassia, this milestone reflects not only construction momentum but also the craftsmanship and planning behind the project.
Prime Coral Gables Location Near Merrick Park
Located just steps from Merrick Park, Cassia Residences places future residents in the heart of Coral Gables’ most desirable lifestyle corridor. From luxury shopping and fine dining to walkable streets and tree-lined avenues, the neighborhood continues to attract both end-users and investors seeking long-term value in a supply-constrained market.
What’s Next for Cassia Residences?
As the building structure is now complete, attention turns to the interior details that will define daily life at Cassia. From refined architectural finishes to thoughtfully designed residences, the project aims to deliver a boutique living experience that blends elegance, comfort, and convenience—hallmarks of Coral Gables luxury real estate.
Mary Lou’s Expands to Miami With Seasonal Residency at W South Beach
A Palm Beach–Born Supper Club Brings Its Cult Following to Miami Beach
Mary Lou’s—one of the most talked-about hospitality concepts to emerge from Palm Beach—is officially opening its Miami outpost on Thursday, January 29. The new location will take over the former WALL lounge space at W South Beach, marking the brand’s third location following its original Palm Beach flagship and a highly successful Montauk residency.
Since debuting in January 2025, Mary Lou’s has quickly evolved into a celebrity magnet and VIP society, attracting names like Michael Jordan, Venus Williams, Baby Jane Holzer, and a steady rotation of high-profile DJs and tastemakers. Its arrival in Miami further reinforces the city’s position as a global epicenter for nightlife, luxury hospitality, and lifestyle-driven real estate.
Reviving an Iconic Miami Nightlife Space
Mary Lou’s Miami will operate as a seasonal residency inside the legendary WALL lounge, a venue that played a major role in Miami Beach nightlife before closing in 2020. The project reunites a storied space with a brand often described as a modern-day Studio 54—exclusive, unpredictable, and deeply rooted in atmosphere.
The expansion is led by Mary Lou’s co-founders Joe Cervasio, Topher Grubb, and Alex Melillo, in partnership with Jamie Reuben of Reuben Brothers, the global luxury real estate group. The deal was facilitated through Mama Hospitality partner Myles Shear of Palm Tree Crew, aligning hospitality innovation with high-profile real estate stewardship.
Design, Atmosphere, and the “Sense of Ridiculousness”
For the Miami transformation, the team tapped designer Jason Volenec to reinterpret the space through Mary Lou’s surrealist lens. Expect:
Animal prints, rich textures, and layered patterns
A seductive blend of Miami Beach glamour and vintage supper-club nostalgia
A design that intentionally blurs the line between fantasy and reality
The concept is inspired by Mary Lou Curtis, the late grandmother of co-founder Alex Melillo and the muse behind the brand. A Palm Beach fashion icon, Curtis dressed legends like Jackie O., Elizabeth Taylor, and Betty White—an ethos that continues to guide Mary Lou’s expansion with a playful reminder to “always have a sense of ridiculousness.”
Mary Lou’s Society and a Private Beach Experience
One of the most notable additions in Miami is Mary Lou’s Society, a private members program designed to elevate the experience without the rigid structure of traditional clubs. Members gain access to curated perks, priority reservations, and preferred entry—creating a community focused more on belonging than status.
For the first time, the brand also extends beyond its interiors with Mary Lou’s Beach, an exclusive, members-only beach experience at W South Beach. Highlights include:
30 dedicated lounge chairs infused with Mary Lou’s signature aesthetic
Full towel service and curated food and beverage offerings
A rare, hospitality-driven activation of Miami Beach oceanfront real estate
This move underscores how experiential hospitality increasingly overlaps with premium real estate value in Miami Beach.
What This Means for Miami Real Estate & Lifestyle
The arrival of Mary Lou’s Miami is more than a nightlife headline—it’s another signal of how hospitality, culture, and real estate converge in Miami. High-profile venues drive global attention, elevate surrounding property values, and reinforce Miami Beach’s appeal as a lifestyle destination for residents, investors, and international buyers alike.
As brands like Mary Lou’s reimagine iconic spaces, they contribute to the narrative that selling Miami real estate is as much about experience and culture as it is about square footage.
Opening Details
Location: WALL at W South Beach
Opening Date: Thursday, January 29
Hours:
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Sunday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
First Look: Miami Design Residences, a 25-Story Condo Tower by David Chipperfield
Miami’s architectural landscape is set to welcome a major new addition with Miami Design Residences, a design-driven condominium tower rising in the heart of the Miami Design District. Designed by David Chipperfield, the project marks the Pritzker Prize–winning architect’s first residential development in Florida.
The tower brings a refined, internationally influenced architectural vision to one of Miami’s most creative and globally recognized neighborhoods.
A 25-Story Condo Tower Focused on Architecture and Livability
Miami Design Residences will rise 25 stories and comprise 143 condominium homes, offering one- to four-bedroom floor plans. True to Chipperfield’s design philosophy, the tower emphasizes proportion, restraint, and long-term architectural relevance rather than overt ornamentation.
The residences are designed to integrate seamlessly with Miami’s climate and lifestyle, featuring generous terraces, natural light, and a calm, understated material palette that reflects both modernist principles and the tropical urban context.
Located in the Heart of the Miami Design District
Set within the Miami Design District, the project places residents steps from world-class fashion, art, dining, and cultural institutions. The neighborhood has evolved into a global destination known for its architecture, luxury retail, and curated public spaces—making it one of the most desirable and design-centric areas in Miami.
Miami Design Residences is positioned to benefit from this unique setting while adding a new residential landmark to the district’s skyline. The development will also include a 12-story hotel to complement the residential component.
An International Development Team
The project is led by an experienced and globally recognized development team, including Raycliff Capital, Fort Partners, Miami Design District Associates, and Constellation Hotels Holding Ltd. Together, the group brings deep expertise in luxury residential, hospitality, and design-forward real estate.
Why Miami Design Residences Matters
Miami Design Residences represents a continued shift toward architect-led luxury development in Miami—where global design talent plays a central role in shaping the city’s future skyline. With David Chipperfield’s involvement, the project signals long-term architectural significance rather than trend-driven design.
As Miami continues to attract international buyers, architects, and developers, projects like this reinforce the city’s growing reputation as a serious global design destination.
Ken Griffin and Goldman Properties Buy 545 Wyn Office Building for $180 Million
Billionaire Ken Griffin, founder of global investment firm Citadel, has teamed up with Miami-based Goldman Properties to purchase the 10-story office building 545 Wyn in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood for approximately $180 million. This high-profile acquisition underscores continued investor confidence in South Florida’s office market and adds to Griffin’s expanding local real estate footprint.
A Strategic Partnership in Wynwood’s Office Market
The acquisition of 545 Wyn at 545 Northwest 26th Street — also referred to simply as 545wyn — involves a collaboration in which Goldman Properties will manage the asset while Ken Griffin provided the bulk of the capital. The sellers were Chicago-based developer Sterling Bay, which developed the building in 2020/2021 after purchasing the land from Goldman Properties several years earlier.
At roughly 298,000 square feet of office space plus more than 26,000 square feet of ground-floor retail, 545 Wyn is one of Wynwood’s most prominent commercial properties. Tenants include major brands like Sony Music Group, PwC, architecture firm Gensler, cryptocurrency exchange Gemini, and crypto-backed mortgage lender Milo, reflecting the diversity of the building’s tenant roster.
Features That Raise the Bar for Wynwood Offices
Beyond its prime location, 545 Wyn offers a suite of tenant amenities that enhance its competitive edge:
Private outdoor amenity deck (~18,000 sq ft)
Tenant amenity floor (~14,000 sq ft)
Indoor-outdoor lounges
Covered parking for ~441 vehicles
These features contribute to Wynwood’s reputation as one of Miami’s most dynamic environments for technology, creative, and finance companies — a neighborhood increasingly in demand by both tenants and investors.
Ken Griffin’s Growing Miami Portfolio
This purchase is the latest in a series of high-value Miami investments by Griffin since relocating Citadel and Citadel Securities from Chicago in 2022. In recent years, Griffin has:
The Wynwood acquisition complements these moves by strengthening Griffin’s presence in Miami’s commercial and urban core.
Goldman Properties’ Return to Wynwood Roots
For Goldman Properties — led by CEO Scott Srebnick — the deal represents a strategic return to Wynwood. The firm originally sold the development site that became 545 Wyn, helping catalyze Wynwood’s transformation from its industrial past into one of the region’s most vibrant business and cultural districts.
What This Means for Miami’s Office Sector
Miami’s office market has continued to attract national and international investors, even as similar markets grapple with uncertainty. The 545 Wyn transaction highlights:
Continued demand for flexible, amenity-rich office space in urban districts.
Premium rents and leasing activity in neighborhoods like Wynwood, where Class A assets remain attractive to both tenants and buyers.
Strategic confidence from deep-pocketed investors, signaling belief in Miami’s long-term commercial real estate prospects.
As Miami evolves as a global business hub, high-profile deals like this one continue to shape the narrative of office space investment and urban development across South Florida.
The Setai Miami Beach Unveils Jo’s Bar, a Stunning Reimagining of Its Iconic Lobby Bar
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
A Timeless New Gathering Space at The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai, Miami Beach has officially unveiled Jo’s Bar, a beautifully reimagined version of its iconic lobby bar that blends Art Deco heritage with contemporary warmth and refined elegance. Designed by the acclaimed Saladino Design Studios, Jo’s Bar reinforces The Setai’s reputation as one of the world’s most design-forward luxury hotels.
The redesign follows Saladino Design Studios’ celebrated work on Japón, previously recognized among the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants by Prix Versailles 2025. With Jo’s Bar, the firm has created a space that feels intimate, elevated, and effortlessly timeless.
Honoring Art Deco Heritage with Modern Sophistication
The vision for Jo’s Bar was rooted in respecting The Setai’s original Art Deco character while introducing a renewed sense of warmth and energy. Named in tribute to owner Joe of the Nakash Family, the bar adds a personal and welcoming layer to the hotel’s iconic lobby experience.
Centrally positioned between Jaya and Japón, and overlooking the serene central courtyard, Jo’s Bar naturally connects The Setai’s dining destinations. The result is a refined gathering point that feels equally suited for pre-dinner cocktails, relaxed afternoons, or late-night conversations.
A Sculptural Bar Design That Becomes the Lobby’s Centerpiece
At the heart of Jo’s Bar is a dramatic sculptural back bar composed of intricately designed floating resin blocks embedded with gold leaf. Ten-foot glass shelves framed in brushed brass hover in front of the illuminated installation, transforming the bottle display into a glowing work of art.
The bar itself is anchored in rich Rosso Levanto stone, featuring deep burgundy tones, white veining, and bamboo-inspired relief details. Custom lighting, hand-painted gold mesh, and a bespoke wine tower further enhance the intimate yet luxurious atmosphere—making Jo’s Bar a destination in its own right within The Setai’s grand lobby.
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
Refined Bites from Jaya and Japón
Jo’s Bar offers a thoughtfully curated bites menu featuring signature dishes from both Jaya and Japón, designed for elegant, shareable dining.
Guests can enjoy Japón favorites such as Tuna Crispy Rice, Hamachi Serrano, Miso Black Cod Lettuce Cups, and Wagyu Sliders, alongside Jaya highlights including Tuna Tacos, Har Gau shrimp dumplings, Thai Chicken, Octopus with aji amarillo, and Duck Spring Rolls. For an elevated indulgence, Caspian Sea Osetra caviar is available in both Classic and Golden selections.
The menu is served nightly from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., perfectly complementing the bar’s sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance.
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
Signature Cocktails and Exclusive Champagne Offerings
Jo’s Bar showcases The Setai’s acclaimed cocktail program, featuring refined classics like the Gold Martini, Chili Passion Martini, and Espresso Martini, alongside new creations such as Golden Accord with The Macallan 12 and Celestial Bloom with Louis Roederer Collection 245 Champagne.
As the exclusive Miami Beach location offering Maison Louis Roederer, Jo’s Bar provides a rare opportunity to experience the House’s legendary cuvées, celebrated for their balance, elegance, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Design Excellence, Hospitality, and Global Recognition
At the heart of Jo’s Bar is a design philosophy that honors The Setai’s Art Deco roots while introducing a renewed sense of intimacy and modern energy. According to Sean Saladino, Chief Designer at Saladino Design Studios:
“Designing the Lobby Bar meant creating a space that feels both rooted in The Setai’s Art Deco legacy and alive with modern, intimate energy. Each material was chosen to evoke warmth and quiet drama, from the sculptural resin forms of the back bar to the carved stone and brass details. The result is a bar that doesn’t simply sit within the lobby — it becomes a glowing centerpiece that celebrates the hotel’s timeless elegance.”
This thoughtful integration of architecture, materiality, and atmosphere is emblematic of The Setai, Miami Beach’s enduring commitment to excellence. The property remains the only hotel on Miami Beach to hold a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond, and two Michelin Keys, while also earning consecutive recognition from Condé Nast Traveler and Michelin for its exceptional hospitality and design.
With the debut of Jo’s Bar, The Setai once again reinforces its position among the world’s most distinguished luxury destinations — where design, dining, and hospitality converge in perfect harmony.
World-Famous Pizzeria Martucci Miami Opens Tomorrow in Wynwood
Photo Credit: Martucci Miami
Miami’s dining scene is about to reach a new milestone. Martucci Miami, the U.S. debut of legendary Italian pizzaiolo Francesco Martucci, officially opens tomorrow, January 16, in the heart of Wynwood—bringing what many consider the world’s best pizza to South Florida for the first time.
This opening marks a major moment not just for Wynwood, but for Miami’s evolution into a globally recognized culinary capital.
From Italy to Miami: A Global Pizza Icon Arrives
Francesco Martucci is widely regarded as one of the most influential pizza chefs in the world. His original restaurant in Caserta, Italy, has been repeatedly ranked among the best pizzerias on the planet, redefining pizza as a fine-dining craft rooted in fermentation science, precision technique, and obsessive ingredient sourcing.
Now, that same philosophy is landing in Miami—without dilution.
According to Food & Wine, Martucci Miami represents a true extension of Martucci’s culinary vision, not a franchised concept. The Wynwood location will showcase the same uncompromising standards that earned Martucci international acclaim, adapted thoughtfully for Miami’s dining culture.
A Liberty Entertainment Group Production in the Heart of Wynwood
Martucci Miami is brought to life by Liberty Entertainment Group, known for elevating hospitality experiences through design, service, and atmosphere.
Designed by Liberty’s VP & Creative Director, the space blends modern Neapolitan influences with Wynwood’s industrial character—creating an immersive environment that feels refined yet energetic, day into night. The result is a restaurant that aligns perfectly with Wynwood’s transformation into one of Miami’s most desirable live-work-play neighborhoods.
Pizza as Fine Dining: What to Expect
Martucci Miami isn’t a traditional pizzeria—it’s a culinary experience.
Guests can choose between:
An à la carte menu highlighting signature pizzas and seasonal creations
An intimate, multi-course pizza tasting menu with curated wine pairings
Each dish is approached with Michelin-level attention to detail, where dough fermentation, texture, and flavor balance are treated as a serious culinary discipline.
This is pizza pushed to its highest expression.
National Recognition: Robb Report’s Only Miami Pick
Adding to the buzz, Robb Report recently named Martucci Miami one of the 13 most exciting restaurant openings in America for the year—the only restaurant in Miami to earn a spot on the prestigious list.
That distinction places Martucci Miami alongside top culinary openings in New York, Los Angeles, and other major food cities, reinforcing Miami’s growing influence on the national dining stage.
Reservations Now Open
Martucci Miami officially opens tomorrow, January 16, and reservations are already available via OpenTable. Given the international reputation and early national acclaim, securing a table early is strongly recommended.
Why This Matters for Miami Real Estate & Lifestyle
Restaurants like Martucci Miami are more than dining destinations—they’re cultural signals. High-profile culinary openings continue to accelerate Wynwood’s evolution into a world-class neighborhood, driving demand for nearby residential, mixed-use, and investment properties.
When globally recognized chefs choose Wynwood for their U.S. debut, it speaks volumes about where Miami is headed next.
Megan Thee Stallion Opens First-Ever Popeyes Restaurant in Miami Beach
Megan Thee Stallion has officially opened her first-ever Popeyes restaurant in Miami Beach, marking a major milestone in her expansion from brand collaborator to franchise owner.
The new location is situated at 1427 Washington Avenue, placing it in the heart of South Beach’s high-traffic retail and tourism corridor.
From Brand Partner to Franchise Owner
Megan Thee Stallion’s journey with Popeyes began in 2021 through a high-profile collaboration that introduced her signature Hottie Sauce to the brand’s menu nationwide. That partnership eventually evolved into franchise ownership, culminating in the opening of her first restaurant in Miami Beach.
According to the press release, this move represents a significant step in her long-term business strategy and highlights the growing role of celebrity entrepreneurs within the quick-service restaurant industry.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in South Beach
The Miami Beach Popeyes officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, where Megan Thee Stallion was on site to celebrate the occasion alongside her restaurant team. The event marked the first day of operations for the location and symbolized her transition from promotional partner to hands-on business owner.
The restaurant’s opening drew attention from fans, locals, and visitors alike, reinforcing South Beach’s reputation as a launchpad for high-visibility retail and dining concepts.
Prime Location at 1427 Washington Avenue
Located at 1427 Washington Avenue, the new Popeyes benefits from strong foot traffic, proximity to hotels, nightlife, and residential buildings, and year-round tourism demand. Washington Avenue remains one of Miami Beach’s most active commercial corridors, making it a strategic choice for a first franchise location.
A Growing Trend of Celebrity Franchise Ownership
Megan Thee Stallion’s Miami Beach opening reflects a broader trend of celebrities moving beyond endorsements into direct ownership of national restaurant brands. For Popeyes, the franchise underscores its continued expansion in South Florida and its appeal to high-profile entrepreneurs seeking long-term equity rather than short-term sponsorships.
Looking Ahead
While this Miami Beach restaurant marks Megan Thee Stallion’s first Popeyes franchise, the press release notes that additional locations may follow. For now, the Washington Avenue opening stands as a notable addition to Miami Beach’s dining scene and a clear signal of her growing presence in the business world.
