Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Opening at Mary Brickell Village March 19
Photo credit: Van Leeuwen
Nationally Beloved Ice Cream Brand Expands to Brickell With Frozen Yogurt Debut
Miami’s dessert scene is about to get even sweeter.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream — the nationally beloved brand known for its ultra-creamy French-style ice cream and inventive vegan flavors — will open a new scoop shop at Mary Brickell Village on March 19, 2026. The new location at 900 S Miami Ave in Brickell marks the brand’s continued expansion in South Florida and introduces a major first for the company.
The Brickell shop will be Van Leeuwen’s first-ever dual ice cream and frozen yogurt location, debuting the brand’s newly launched frozen yogurt program exclusively in Miami.
Photo credit: Van Leeuwen
A First-Ever Dual Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt Shop
While Van Leeuwen has built a national following with its premium ice cream, the Brickell location will introduce something new: frozen yogurt made the Van Leeuwen way.
According to co-founder and CEO Ben Van Leeuwen, the brand spent years developing the concept in its research kitchens before deciding to launch it publicly.
The frozen yogurt program begins with two signature flavors:
Tart – made with organic A2 Bulgarian yogurt
Matcha – made with ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha
Guests can enjoy the flavors individually or swirled together. Seasonal frozen yogurt flavors will also rotate throughout the year.
The shop will feature an expanded toppings menu including:
strawberries
pistachio kataifi
toasted coconut
mochi
chocolate curls
cookies & cream crumble
Sicilian pistachio cream
Photo credit: Van Leeuwen
Exclusive COYO Taco Collaboration: The Cajeta Sundae
To celebrate the opening, Van Leeuwen has partnered with COYO Taco, a beloved local Miami brand, to create a limited-time Cajeta Sundae.
The dessert features:
exclusive Cajeta ice cream created for the collaboration
salted caramel
whipped cream
COYO Taco churro pieces
The partnership highlights the growing crossover between Miami’s restaurant scene and nationally expanding food brands.
$1 Scoops on Opening Day
Van Leeuwen will celebrate the grand opening with special promotions on Thursday, March 19:
$1 single scoops or small frozen yogurts from 12 PM – 2 PM
Free limited-edition tote bags for the first 100 customers
Opening day hours will run 12 PM to 12 AM, while standard hours after launch will be 11 AM to midnight daily.
More Than 25 Signature Ice Cream Flavors
In addition to frozen yogurt, the Brickell shop will serve more than 25 of Van Leeuwen’s signature ice cream flavors, including:
BIGFACE Coffee Affogato
Honeycomb
Brown Sugar Cookie Dough Brownie
Pistachio (made with Sicilian pistachios from Mount Etna)
Marionberry Cheesecake
Earl Grey Tea
The menu will also include:
sundaes
milkshakes
ice cream sandwiches
housemade waffle cones
pints to go
Popular vegan flavors such as Banana Bread Pudding, Peanut Butter Brownie Honeycomb, and Strawberry Shortcake will also be available.
Credit: Van Leeuwen
A Playful New Addition to Mary Brickell Village
Spanning nearly 1,200 square feet, the new Brickell shop blends Van Leeuwen’s signature pastel design palette with custom tilework inspired by the brand’s Vanilla Bean and Praline Butter Cake flavors.
The space includes both indoor and outdoor seating, designed to create a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere that is just as photogenic as the ice cream itself.
With Brickell continuing to attract new restaurants, cafés, and lifestyle destinations, the arrival of Van Leeuwen adds another nationally recognized brand to the neighborhood’s growing dining scene.
Photo credit: Vina Sananikone
From NYC Ice Cream Truck to National Brand
Van Leeuwen was founded in 2008 as a yellow ice cream truck on the streets of New York City by Ben Van Leeuwen, Pete Van Leeuwen, and Laura O’Neill.
The company quickly developed a cult following thanks to its French-style ice cream, which uses more than twice the egg yolks of traditional ice cream for a richer texture.
Today, the brand operates scoop shops across the United States and sells its ice cream in grocery stores nationwide.
Van Leeuwen Brickell will be located at:
900 S Miami Ave Mary Brickell Village Miami, FL
Brickell Flatiron Tri-Level Penthouse Fetches $9.212M After 28-Day Auction
Photo Credit: Lux Media Group and Carol Villela
A tri-level trophy penthouse crowning Brickell Flatiron is now pending sale for $9.212 million, closing just 28 days after launching via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions.
The sale culminated live at ModaMiami at The Biltmore Hotel Miami – Coral Gables, in partnership with RM Sotheby’s and in cooperation with Jonathan Garcia and Elena C. Bluntzer of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty.
The result speaks volumes about the continued velocity at the top of Miami’s luxury condo market when product and platform align.
From $14.9M Listing to $9.212M Pending Sale
Originally listed at $14.9 million and on the market for 285 days, the sellers pivoted to a time-certain auction strategy.
Within 28 days, the property was under contract at $9.212 million.
That compression of timeline highlights how competitive auction environments can drive decisive outcomes for high-end properties that may otherwise linger in traditional listing channels.
As Chad Roffers, CEO and Co-Founder of Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, stated:
“The successful sale of this penthouse underscores continued demand for design-forward residences in Miami’s premier urban core. Presenting the property during ModaMiami positioned it directly in front of a concentrated audience of luxury collectors and decision-makers, creating competitive momentum that led to a standout result.”
A Designer-Ready Trophy Penthouse in the Sky
Spanning three private floors, the corner penthouse represents one of the most architecturally dramatic residences at Brickell Flatiron.
Key features include:
Over 7,800 interior square feet
Approximately 2,700 square feet of terraces
Five bedrooms
Seven full bathrooms
Two powder rooms
Triple-height ceilings
Dedicated in-residence elevator
Floor-to-ceiling glass captures sweeping 200-degree views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay.
The crown jewel remains the ultra-private rooftop terrace, complete with a private pool, wet bar, outdoor shower, and expansive entertaining space designed for sunrise-to-sunset vistas and moonlit gatherings above the Brickell skyline.
Photo Credit: Lux Media Group and Carol Villela
The Power of the Auction Platform
The sale culminated live at ModaMiami — the premier luxury car collector and lifestyle event — in partnership with RM Sotheby’s. That positioning placed the property directly in front of a highly concentrated audience of luxury buyers and collectors.
Jonathan Garcia noted:
“From its scale and private rooftop pool to its commanding skyline views, this penthouse presented a rare opportunity to own within one of Miami’s most iconic towers. Collaborating with Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions ensured this trophy residence was presented to the right global audience, ultimately finding the ideal buyer.”
The takeaway: in today’s Miami luxury market, strategic exposure matters as much as product quality.
What This Means for the Brickell Luxury Market
The $9.212M pending sale reinforces several important trends:
Continued demand for large-scale, design-forward residences
Strong buyer appetite at the top of the market when pricing aligns
Auction strategies gaining traction for ultra-luxury properties
Brickell’s positioning as Miami’s premier urban core
Completed in 2019, Brickell Flatiron remains one of the most recognizable residential towers in the neighborhood, rising 64 stories with 523 residences in the heart of Brickell — steps from Brickell City Centre, Mary Brickell Village, and directly above Sexy Fish.
SEIA to Open March 14 at 830 Brickell With $25,000 Private Club Membership
Miami’s dining and private club scene is about to reach new heights — literally.
SEIA, a contemporary Italian restaurant and private members club developed through a partnership between OKO Group and The Bastion Collection, is set to open March 14 atop 830 Brickell — bringing Michelin-starred hospitality and elevated exclusivity to Miami’s Financial District.
A Michelin Pedigree Above Brickell
SEIA is backed by The Bastion Collection, the hospitality group behind Miami’s only two-Michelin-star restaurant, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, and the one-Michelin-star Le Jardinier. That alone positions SEIA in elite culinary territory before the doors even open.
The culinary program is led by Bastion Collection Executive Chef Salvatore Martone in collaboration with Executive Chef Alessandro Morrone, bringing Michelin-level experience and a contemporary Italian approach rooted in seasonality and craftsmanship. With The Bastion Collection’s track record of precision, artistry, and globally respected dining experiences, SEIA is poised to become one of the most talked-about openings in Miami this year.
While L’Atelier delivers French fine dining and Le Jardinier celebrates vegetable-forward cuisine, SEIA introduces a contemporary Italian concept — rooted in seasonality and craftsmanship — set high above Brickell’s rapidly evolving skyline.
Art, Architecture, and Culinary Culture
Beyond its culinary pedigree, SEIA also introduces a highly curated design and cultural experience. The interiors, designed by London-based firm Zervudachi, Roberts & Macadam, blend Italian modernism with warm materials inspired by the Miami landscape.
A private art collection anchors the space, featuring museum-caliber works by Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Richard Prince, and Ling Pui — creating a gallery-like atmosphere overlooking the Brickell skyline.
Elevated Dining on the 54th & 55th Floors
Perched atop 830 Brickell, SEIA offers something few restaurants in Miami can: altitude and exclusivity in the city’s most powerful business corridor.
Designed as both a public restaurant (54th floor) and a private club (55th floor), SEIA blends business and lifestyle in a way that feels tailor-made for Brickell’s professional ecosystem. The location alone — in Miami’s premier office tower — positions it differently than traditional Miami Beach social clubs or Design District dining destinations.
Expect refined interiors, sweeping city views, and a space that transitions seamlessly from power lunch to intimate dinner to late-evening private gatherings.
SEIA Club: $25,000 Initiation Fee + $5,000 Annual Dues
The real headline, however, may be the membership structure.
SEIA Club requires:
$25,000 initiation fee
$5,000 in annual dues
Membership covers up to five people
That pricing places SEIA among the most exclusive private clubs in Miami.
For comparison:
ZZ’s Club reportedly charges $15,000 to join, plus $3,500 annually for couples
Harbour Club in Miami Beach has a $9,000 initiation fee, with a $55,000 lifetime option
SEIA’s higher entry point reflects both its Michelin-level culinary backing and its strategic location in Miami’s Financial District. With hundreds of executives, hedge funds, private equity firms, and law firms headquartered at 830 Brickell, the club appears designed to serve the professionals who live and work within walking distance. Members will have access to curated programming, including chef-led dinners, private tastings, cultural salons, artist conversations, and live music performances designed to create a vibrant social calendar for Brickell’s professional community.
In many ways, SEIA feels less like a nightlife-driven membership and more like a business-lifestyle hybrid — a refined extension of the office, elevated 50+ floors above the city.
A New Era for Brickell’s Luxury Scene
Brickell has seen an explosion of luxury residential towers, Class-A office space, and high-end dining over the past decade. SEIA represents the next evolution: a Michelin-backed private dining club embedded in Miami’s financial core.
With its March 14 opening, SEIA isn’t just launching a restaurant — it’s introducing a vertical social and culinary destination that may redefine what exclusivity looks like in Brickell.
Given The Bastion Collection’s reputation and Chef Martone’s credentials, anticipation is already building. And with a $25,000 initiation fee, SEIA is clearly positioning itself at the very top of Miami’s private club hierarchy.
Sneak Peek at Una Residences as Closings Set to Begin This Month
Closings are set to begin this month at Una Residences, the 45-story, 135-unit luxury waterfront condominium in South Brickell developed by OKO Group and Cain International and designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG).
Rising directly along Biscayne Bay, Una offers expansive two- to five-bedroom floor plans with sweeping water views and private elevator access in most residences. The tower is crowned by two extraordinary triplex penthouses, each featuring a private rooftop terrace and swimming pool — among the most exclusive residential offerings on the Miami waterfront.
With construction complete and interiors finalized, the building now transitions from development milestone to residential occupancy — and newly released drone photos offer a striking first look at Una in its finished form.
A Sculptural Waterfront Tower with Rare Engineering
The new drone images highlight:
Una’s elegant curvature and rippling glass terraces
Its elevated pedestal and landscaped bayfront setting
Unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean
A rare deep underground parking garage — particularly notable in Miami’s high water table environment
Unlike many towers in Miami that rely on above-grade parking due to sea-level constraints, Una features one of the city’s deepest underground parking garages. This engineering achievement required advanced waterproofing and structural planning given Miami’s proximity to Biscayne Bay and high groundwater levels — a notable differentiator for residents who value protected, secure parking.
A Global Architectural Pedigree Arrives in Miami
Una Residences is the first Miami residential tower designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG) — a firm recognized internationally for its elegant yet performance-driven architecture. The firm also developed 830 Brickell, a recently completed Class-A office tower in Brickell.
Adrian Smith, before co-founding AS+GG, famously designed the Burj Khalifa while at SOM — the tallest building in the world. That expertise in innovative high-rise design carries forward into Una’s refined vertical proportions and sculptural form.
Together, Smith and Gordon Gill have collaborated on internationally significant projects including Jeddah Tower, planned to exceed one kilometer in height, and Central Park Tower, the tallest residential building globally.
With Una Residences, that global design pedigree now arrives on the Miami waterfront — contributing a distinctive mark to the skyline.
A Boutique Luxury Tower in a Mega-Tower Market
Developed by OKO Group and Cain International, Una was intentionally conceived as an intimate, design-forward alternative to larger Brickell supertalls.
Highlights include:
135 exclusive residences
Private elevators servicing most units
Expansive bayfront terraces
Spa, fitness center, and curated amenity spaces
Deep underground parking garage — rare in a city defined by its water table
With closings set to begin later this month, early buyers who secured pre-construction pricing will begin taking delivery of residences in one of Brickell’s most architecturally distinctive buildings.
A Major Milestone for South Brickell
The commencement of closings at Una Residences marks one of the most notable tower deliveries in the South Brickell waterfront submarket.
With limited newly delivered bayfront inventory, Una now transitions into the resale and immediate occupancy phases — positioning it as one of the most desirable luxury waterfront condominium addresses in Miami.
E41, short for Embarcadero 41, is renowned for its masterful blend of Peruvian Fusion and Nikkei cuisine. With five thriving locations, the sixth will soon bring its innovative dishes to the heart of Brickell. Expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a vibrant culinary experience.
Location & Ambiance
Situated at 777 Brickell Ave, this spot is nestled between Bank of America and Truist, making it a prime destination for both locals and visitors. With a Pisco bar and sushi bar, E41 is expected to be a hotspot for happy hours and social gatherings.
What to Expect on the Menu
From refreshing ceviches to beautifully crafted sushi rolls and Nikkei dishes, E41 promises to offer a unique journey through Peruvian-Japanese fusion. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or an elegant dinner, the menu promises something for every palate.
Anticipation Builds
Though the exact opening date hasn’t been announced, anticipation is growing. Stay tuned for updates and be ready to experience a fresh addition to Brickell’s dining scene.
Viceroy Brickell Launches 7% Leaseback Program for New Buyers
A new leaseback incentive is coming to Brickell — and it’s one that will immediately catch the attention of both lifestyle buyers and real estate investors.
Viceroy Brickell has officially announced a 7% Leaseback Program, offering buyers professionally managed rental income during a fixed leaseback term while maintaining ownership of their residence.
This limited-time program applies to new sales contracts only and is designed to provide predictable income, simplified ownership, and a reduced upfront deposit structure.
What Is the Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program?
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program allows purchasers to lease their residence back to the developer under a fixed-term agreement after closing.
In return, owners receive quarterly payments equal to 7% annually of the purchase price, paid in arrears over a two-year term.
Key features include:
Fixed lease payments, not tied to nightly rental performance
Professional management through the Viceroy rental program
No short-term rental management required by the owner
This structure is particularly attractive for buyers seeking passive income without day-to-day operational involvement.
Program Highlights at a Glance
According to the official program details:
7% annual leaseback, paid quarterly
Two-year lease term
Available for new contracts only
Residences are professionally managed by Viceroy
Owners retain responsibility for:
Maintenance fees
Insurance
Real estate taxes
Example Provided by the Developer
Purchase Price: $900,000
Annual Lease Payment: $63,000
Total Leaseback Income Over Two Years: $126,000
Reduced Deposit Structure: Just 20% Until Closing
In addition to the leaseback incentive, Viceroy Brickell is offering a total-deposit structure of just 20% until closing, allowing buyers to lock in a contract with significantly less capital tied up during the pre-construction phase.
This is a notable advantage compared to many Brickell developments that require 30–40% in staged deposits prior to delivery.
Why This Matters for Brickell Condo Buyers
Brickell remains one of Miami’s most competitive submarkets, but rising prices and interest rates have made predictable income strategies increasingly important.
The Viceroy Brickell Leaseback Program appeals to:
Buyers who want income certainty rather than market-dependent rentals
Out-of-state and international buyers seeking hands-off ownership
Investors looking to offset carrying costs during the first two years of ownership
Because payments are fixed and contractually defined, this program removes short-term rental volatility from the equation.
Pricing and Delivery Timeline
Residences start in the $600,000s
Estimated delivery: Q1 2026
This positions the project as one of the more accessible branded condo opportunities in Brickell, particularly when combined with the leaseback and reduced deposit structure.
Important Disclaimer for Buyers
As noted by the developer:
Participation in the leaseback program is voluntary
The program is offered for a limited time
Leaseback terms must be finalized prior to contract execution
Payments are not a guarantee of future rental performance after the leaseback term ends
Buyers should review all program terms carefully and confirm eligibility before signing.
Final Thoughts
The Viceroy Brickell 7% Leaseback Program stands out as a strategic incentive in today’s Brickell condo market — blending brand-backed management, predictable income, and lower upfront capital requirements.
For buyers seeking a balance between lifestyle ownership and short-term income stability, this program is worth a closer look.
If you’d like full pricing, floor plans, or a breakdown of how the leaseback compares to traditional rental scenarios, feel free to reach out.
Claudie Miami Expands Its Dining Experience With New Lunch & Brunch Service
Photo Credit: Claudie Miami
Miami’s French-Mediterranean dining scene just gained another reason to celebrate. Claudie Miami, the stylish restaurant by Riviera Dining Group, is officially expanding its hours to include weekday lunch service starting February 2 and Sunday brunch beginning February 22.
The announcement signals an exciting evolution for one of Brickell’s most talked-about dining destinations.
Photo Credit: Claudie Miami
Lunch at Claudie Miami Begins February 2
Beginning Monday, February 2, Claudie Miami will offer lunch service Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, giving professionals, locals, and visitors a refined new midday dining option.
The lunch experience is designed for both efficiency and indulgence, featuring:
A curated Power Lunch menu
A selection of signature Claudie dishes reimagined for midday dining
The concept blends elevated French-Mediterranean flavors with a polished yet approachable atmosphere—ideal for business lunches, meetings, or a leisurely escape in the middle of the day.
Photo Credit: Claudie Miami
Brunch à la Française Launches February 22
On Sunday, February 22, Claudie Miami will debut “Brunch à la Française,” a Mediterranean-inspired brunch experience served every Sunday from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
Guests can expect:
A vibrant brunch buffet
Sun-kissed flavors inspired by the French Riviera
A chic, relaxed setting perfect for social gatherings and weekend indulgence
This addition positions Claudie as a full-day dining destination, seamlessly transitioning from brunch to dinner within Miami’s luxury culinary landscape.
A Strategic Expansion for a Standout Miami Restaurant
Claudie’s expansion into lunch and brunch reflects the continued momentum of Brickell as a lifestyle destination—where dining, retail, and business intersect.
For Riviera Dining Group, the move strengthens Claudie’s role as a go-to restaurant for every part of the day, while giving Miami diners more opportunities to experience its refined European sensibility.
Reservations Now Open
With demand already high for dinner service, reservations for both lunch and brunch are expected to fill quickly.
Location: Brickell, Miami Lunch: Monday–Friday, starting February 2 (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) Brunch: Sundays, starting February 22 (11:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
Oak Row, OKO Group Close Historic $520M Waterfront Land Deal in Brickell
Oak Row Equities, OKO Group, and Mariposa Real Estate have closed a record-setting $520 million waterfront land acquisition in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, marking the largest land deal in Florida history and underscoring Miami’s ongoing urban transformation.
Miami’s Most Significant Land Transaction to Date
The 4.25-acre assemblage at 1001 and 1111 Brickell Bay Drive — the last remaining site of this scale along Biscayne Bay — is now officially under new ownership. This strategic location offers 485 feet of uninterrupted bay frontage and is positioned in Miami’s thriving financial and luxury residential market.
TYKO Capital provided a $464.5 million acquisition and predevelopment loan to support the purchase, reinforcing confidence from institutional lenders in Miami’s real estate market.
A Strategic Partnership: Oak Row, OKO Group & Mariposa
This venture pairs Miami’s own OKO Group, led by international developer Vlad Doronin, with New York-Miami developer Oak Row Equities and Mariposa Real Estate. The collaboration brings together deep design, development, and financing expertise to tackle one of the most high-profile sites in South Florida.
Oak Row’s managing partners highlighted the historic nature of the closing and the vision to turn the site into a globally coveted destination that blends luxury living, hospitality, and lifestyle.
What’s Planned for Brickell Bay Drive
The zoning for the site allows over three million square feet of development, including multiple towers with heights up to 1,049 feet. The first phase of redevelopment is slated to include:
A luxury hotel concept
Branded condominium residences
Mixed-use components that cater to global buyers and visitors
“This landmark acquisition represents a pivotal moment for Miami and reinforces OKO Group’s long-term commitment to elevating the city’s global profile. Brickell’s final remaining waterfront site of this scale provides a rare opportunity to create an iconic mixed-use development that will set a new benchmark for design, wellness, and luxury hospitality in the United States.”
— Vlad Doronin, Founder and CEO, OKO Group
Why This Deal Matters for Miami Real Estate
This transaction not only sets new price and scale records for Miami land acquisitions but also signals continued institutional confidence in the Brickell and Greater Miami markets. It stands as a key benchmark for future waterfront development and underscores Miami’s competitiveness on the global real estate stage.
Investors, developers, and luxury market watchers will be watching closely as plans for this once-in-a-generation site begin to unfold.
The Living Room by Cipriani Debuts at Icon Brickell: A New Jewel in Miami’s Nightlife
Photo courtesy of The Living Room by Cipriani
Miami’s vibrant nightlife scene is about to welcome a touch of classic Italian elegance. The Living Room by Cipriani is set to open its doors on December 5th, 2025, bringing the iconic Cipriani brand’s renowned hospitality right to the ground floor of Tower 1 at Icon Brickell (465 Brickell Ave. CU1, Miami).
A New Lounge Experience in Brickell
The Living Room by Cipriani offers a unique blend of refined Italian design and Miami’s energetic spirit. This intimate venue features 92 indoor seats spread across three beautifully designed rooms, each evoking a distinct story with art deco influences, Murano glass, and warm walnut finishes. Guests can also enjoy a 62-seat waterfront terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay, which is set to open in early 2026.
Classic Cipriani Flair Meets Miami Nightlife
In true Cipriani fashion, the menu will feature beloved classics like the signature Bellini, carpaccio alla Cipriani, and baked tagliolini. The venue combines great food, music, and a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a memorable evening.
Event Details and Location
The Living Room by Cipriani will officially open to the public on December 5th, 2025. Located in Brickell, at the base of the Cipriani Restaurant in Icon Brickell, it promises to become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Miami.
