h.wood Group to Debut Hidden Cocktail Bar at RIVANI Miami Beach

A New Tokyo-Inspired Speakeasy Joins South Beach’s Luxe Hospitality Scene

A new layer of intrigue and luxury is coming to Miami Beach. The h.wood Group—the celebrity-favorite hospitality brand behind culturally influential dining and nightlife concepts across Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and global markets—has announced plans to open a hidden cocktail lounge inside RIVANI Miami Beach. The Tokyo-inspired speakeasy will launch as part of Robert Rivani’s $100 million flagship office redevelopment, further elevating the building’s already world-class amenity collection.

A Secret, Design-Forward Escape in the Heart of RIVANI

Situated on the third-floor amenity level, the intimate lounge will be tucked behind a concealed access door, creating an immersive, transportive experience for guests. The design draws inspiration from the under-the-radar cocktail lounges of mid-century Japan, complete with warm ambient lighting, vintage textures, and curated vinyl that evokes the charm of the Shōwa era.

The h.wood Group Co-Founders Brian Toll and John Terzian describe the venue as intentionally intimate and atmospheric: “Hidden within RIVANI Miami Beach, the concept is crafted to feel like a discovery—intimate, effortless, and made for long nights that turn into mornings. For us, great spaces are driven by atmosphere and connection, and this one captures both through a distinctly Miami lens.”

Elevated Hospitality for RIVANI Tenants

Expected to open in Summer 2026, the speakeasy will serve handcrafted cocktails and elevated small plates in a design-forward space available exclusively to tenants of RIVANI Miami Beach. The lounge will offer private access for tenant events and gatherings, as well as dedicated keyed lockers for storing personal spirits collections—introducing a new level of hospitality, privacy, and convenience to the modern workplace.

Robert Rivani’s Vision for Transforming Office Culture

The hidden cocktail bar reflects Robert Rivani’s continued push to redefine how people work, socialize, and entertain within office environments. As Rivani explains, “We are giving our tenants the ability to entertain like they’re at a private members club in Tokyo, right here in Miami Beach. The h.wood Group has mastered the art of creating spaces that people remember, and bringing their energy and hospitality experience to RIVANI Miami Beach perfectly complements our vision to create environments that redefine how people work, play, and live.”

This collaboration marks the latest milestone for RIVANI Miami Beach, building on recent headlines such as Playboy Enterprises signing on as anchor tenant for its new global headquarters. Designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group, the redevelopment introduces a new Class X standard to South Beach, with amenities including a full-service concierge, valet, Monarch Athletic Club fitness and wellness center, private event venues, and now the h.wood-operated speakeasy.

A New Benchmark in Miami Beach Office Hospitality

With its blend of high design, curated experiences, and members-only exclusivity, the hidden cocktail lounge adds yet another world-class feature to one of Miami Beach’s most ambitious commercial transformations. As RIVANI Miami Beach continues to reshape expectations for luxury workspace environments, the h.wood Group’s upcoming speakeasy brings a sophisticated, culturally rich layer to the building’s evolving identity.

Bagatelle Miami River Opens to the Public Friday, November 21

Bagatelle, the French-Mediterranean brand famed for its high-energy, joie-de-vivre dining style, is opening its waterfront outpost at 311 NW South River Drive. The grand opening to the public is slated for Friday, November 21, 2025, based on the venue’s first available reservations shown on the official SevenRooms booking page for Bagatelle Miami River.

Bagatelle’s own venue page now lists address, access by car or boat, contact info, and posted opening hours for the Miami River location—another strong indicator that service commencement is imminent.

Why Bagatelle is such a draw

Founded by Rémi Laba and Aymeric Clémente, Bagatelle blends upscale Mediterranean cuisine with a celebratory, Riviera-inspired atmosphere—think lively dinners that transition into a scene. The brand describes itself as bringing a “French Riviera luxury” spirit to each destination, which has helped cultivate a worldwide following.

Today, Bagatelle Group counts ~15 venues worldwide, with Miami River expanding the brand’s South Florida footprint alongside its established Miami South Beach location. Additional destinations span London, Dubai, St. Tropez, St. Barth, Tulum, Los Cabos, and more, with further openings planned.

Momentum on the Miami River dining scene

The Miami River continues to heat up with high-profile restaurant concepts:

• Casa Neos debuted in June 2024, adding a multi-level restaurant, beach club, and rooftop to the riverfront lineup.
• Habibi Miami opened in October 2024, bringing a French-Moroccan supper-club energy to the water’s edge.
• Looking ahead, Call Me Gaby plans a two-story, ~8,500-square-foot outpost on the river, part of a broader wave of new leases and openings announced earlier this year.

What to expect at Bagatelle Miami River

Expect the brand’s signature Mediterranean-leaning menu and celebratory service culture—arrive by land or by boat, with valet and dock options available. With listed hours that include late-night service and weekend daytime slots, Bagatelle Miami River appears tailored for both lively dinners and long, social weekend sessions.

Bagatelle Miami River Reservations

Early demand is likely to be high. Reservations are now surfacing for Friday, November 21, which we’re treating as the public grand-opening date barring any last-minute changes by the operator. If you’re planning to go opening weekend, consider booking promptly.

Selva Miami Nightclub Set to Open November 15th in Brickell

Brickell’s nightlife scene is about to reach a new level of sophistication with the highly anticipated opening of Selva Miami, a jungle-inspired nightclub from the internationally acclaimed restaurant brand Amazónico. Following months of speculation and teasers, it has now been confirmed that Selva will officially open its doors on November 15, 2025, at 800 Brickell Avenue, directly above Amazónico Miami.

When news first broke in August, the only detail known was that Selva was expected to open sometime in the fall. With the date now set, excitement is quickly building around what promises to be one of the most talked-about nightlife debuts of the year. The concept, described as “the dark side of the jungle,” aims to bring an immersive, high-energy experience to Brickell—combining lush tropical interiors, global beats, and the refined flair that Amazónico has become known for worldwide.

Selva Miami will occupy the upper level of the Amazónico space, marking the first time the celebrated hospitality group has introduced a standalone nightclub under its brand umbrella. With successful restaurant locations in London, Madrid, Dubai, and Monte Carlo, Amazónico’s Miami outpost has already made a strong impression since opening in September. Now, Selva is set to extend that same energy into the late-night hours, offering a seamless transition from fine dining to full-scale nightlife in the heart of Brickell.

The arrival of Selva represents more than just another club opening—it signals a shift in Brickell’s identity as a round-the-clock destination. Long known for its skyline of luxury condominiums, fine dining, and financial institutions, the neighborhood has increasingly become a hub for social life and entertainment. Until now, however, few venues in Brickell have offered the kind of full-scale nightclub experience typically found in South Beach or Wynwood. Selva’s debut could mark a new era for Brickell, drawing a global crowd of tastemakers, professionals, and nightlife enthusiasts seeking a more elevated experience closer to home.

The design and atmosphere of Selva remain closely guarded secrets, but renderings and brand materials suggest a dramatic, rainforest-inspired aesthetic consistent with Amazónico’s signature jungle motif—only darker, sexier, and more theatrical. Guests can expect world-class DJs, live performers, bottle service, and an immersive environment blending art, sound, and design in true Amazónico fashion. The venue’s location above Amazónico’s three-level restaurant and lounge also suggests a natural synergy between the two experiences, allowing diners to transition effortlessly from dinner to dancing.

For Brickell residents and condo investors, openings like Selva enhance the neighborhood’s lifestyle appeal and reinforce its reputation as Miami’s most complete urban district. A marquee nightlife destination can have ripple effects on nearby real estate, hospitality, and tourism, further energizing the area’s already vibrant scene. The timing is also strategic—Miami’s hospitality market continues to attract global brands eager to establish a presence ahead of major upcoming events, including Art Basel and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As the countdown to November 15th begins, anticipation is mounting for what could become one of Miami’s most iconic nightlife experiences. Selva Miami is poised to be more than just a club—it’s a statement of how far Brickell has come as a global destination where luxury, lifestyle, and nightlife intersect.

Yamashiro Miami Opens October 29 at Gale Miami Hotel & Residences

The long-awaited opening of Yamashiro Miami is finally here. The legendary Los Angeles restaurant, renowned for its century-old history, Japanese-inspired architecture, and panoramic Hollywood Hills views, officially expands to South Florida with a new location opening Tuesday, October 29, 2025, inside the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami. This marks the first-ever expansion of the iconic Yamashiro brand outside California, bringing its unmistakable blend of history, design, and culinary excellence to the heart of Miami’s skyline.

A Legendary Brand Reinvented for Miami

Originally built in 1914, the original Yamashiro Hollywood became a cultural landmark and one of L.A.’s most photographed dining destinations, famous for its ornate pagoda design, koi ponds, and sweeping city views. Its Miami counterpart captures that same sense of magic while introducing a contemporary tropical flair. The new outpost sits atop the 9th floor of the Gale Miami Hotel, overlooking Biscayne Bay and the Downtown skyline. Expect an elegant mix of traditional Japanese aesthetics—bonsai gardens, wooden detailing, and stone lanterns—blended with modern Miami energy and bold architectural lines.

The concept was reimagined by Executive Chef Gustavo Montes and Chef Charbel Hayek, who together have created a menu that fuses Japanese culinary precision with the vibrant flavors and diversity of Miami. Their goal is to bring an “East-meets-Miami” dining experience unlike anything the city has seen before.

A Menu That Marries Japanese Craftsmanship and Miami Flavor

The Yamashiro Miami menu features both classic and inventive dishes that showcase the restaurant’s signature balance of artistry and indulgence. Standout offerings include Japanese Fried Chicken (JFC) tossed in spicy gochujang buffalo sauce, the Katsu Sando made with Japanese milk bread and tonkatsu aioli, and a showstopping Wagyu Tomahawk served with bone marrow teriyaki and house pickles. Seafood lovers can look forward to Maine Lobster in miso beurre blanc, Alaskan King Crab with yuzu hollandaise, and Chilean Seabass roasted in mandarin dashi with shiso flower.

Complementing the cuisine is a vibrant cocktail program that honors Japanese mixology traditions while embracing Miami’s tropical flair. Guests can expect drinks such as the Dragon Pearls, Fortune Teller, and Samurai Negroni, alongside refreshing non-alcoholic options like the Yamashiro Creamsicle with yuzu and vanilla foam. Each drink is designed to complement the restaurant’s visually stunning dishes and atmosphere.

Rooftop Views, Koi Ponds, and Nightlife Energy

Beyond the food, Yamashiro Miami delivers a fully immersive experience. The restaurant’s design pays homage to the original Hollywood landmark with its lush gardens, koi ponds, and tranquil water features, but with a distinctly Miami twist—think tropical greenery, artful lighting, and open-air terraces. The 9th-floor location offers sweeping views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay, positioning Yamashiro among the city’s most striking new rooftop dining destinations.

The venue also promises to be a nightlife hotspot, with live instrumental music, DJ sets, and rotating cultural activations planned throughout the week. Together, these elements make Yamashiro Miami not just a restaurant, but a destination for both dining and entertainment.

Details, Reservations, and What to Expect

Yamashiro Miami officially opens its doors Wednesday, October 29, 2025, and will operate Wednesday through Sunday from 5 PM until late. The dress code is upscale casual or resort chic, in keeping with the venue’s sophisticated ambiance. Located at 159 NE 6th Street, 9th Floor, Miami, FL 33132, the restaurant offers valet parking through the Gale Hotel, along with nearby garage options.

Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially during the opening weeks, as excitement builds around what’s expected to be one of Miami’s most anticipated restaurant openings of 2025. Those seeking the best experience should request terrace seating or tables near the koi pond to enjoy the skyline and ambiance at their fullest.

A Milestone for Miami’s Dining Scene

With its rich Hollywood heritage and elevated Japanese-inspired design, Yamashiro Miami is poised to become one of Downtown Miami’s premier dining destinations. The combination of architectural beauty, culinary innovation, and panoramic rooftop views perfectly captures the spirit of modern Miami—luxurious, multicultural, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re planning a special dinner, entertaining clients, or simply eager to experience one of the most talked-about openings of the year, Yamashiro Miami delivers an experience where Japanese tradition meets Miami glamour. Reservations are now open — and if history is any indication, this will be one of the toughest tables in town to get.

Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club Launching Soon Along the Miami River

A major new luxury development is about to make waves along the Miami River. Alta Development has announced the upcoming launch of Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club, a striking new waterfront condominium offering the rare combination of modern design, yacht dockage, and short-term rental flexibility—all in one of Miami’s most dynamic emerging neighborhoods.

Just a few weeks from its official sales launch, Vista Harbor Residences is already generating buzz among investors and end-users alike, thanks to its unbeatable location, visionary design, and attainable pricing.

Prime Miami River Location

Set directly along the Miami River at 555 NW South River Drive, Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club will place residents in the heart of Miami’s booming waterfront dining and entertainment scene. The development is located steps from some of the city’s most iconic riverfront venues—Kiki on the River, Seaspice, Bagatelle Miami River, Habibi, and Casa Neos—offering residents immediate access to world-class cuisine and nightlife.

This stretch of the Miami River has transformed into one of the city’s most desirable residential corridors. Combining scenic views, walkable dining, and easy access to Downtown Miami, Brickell, and Miami Beach, it’s quickly becoming the next great waterfront lifestyle destination.

Spectacular Architecture and Design

While renderings and full details have yet to be released, the project’s developer promises “spectacular architecture” and an elevated design aesthetic that blends contemporary elegance with tropical waterfront living. Early previews from the developer’s social media highlight a sleek, modern design with open glass façades, private balconies, and lushly landscaped outdoor areas designed to connect seamlessly with the riverfront setting.

The project will feature a Yacht Club component, offering up to 550 feet of private dock space for condo owners—an extremely rare amenity for Miami condominiums.

Dockage and Waterfront Lifestyle

For boating enthusiasts, Vista Harbor Residences offers an unparalleled advantage: direct yacht access right at your doorstep. The development will provide 550 feet of dock frontage, with individual slips designed to accommodate yachts of up to 200 feet in length.

This feature alone sets Vista Harbor apart from nearly every other residential project in Miami, transforming it into a haven for those who live and breathe the boating lifestyle.

Pricing and Investment Appeal

According to early details shared by the developer, prices will range from $699,000 to $990,000—a highly attractive price range given its riverfront location and exclusive amenities. Units will also be short-term rental–friendly, allowing owners to generate income through platforms like Airbnb or through professional management companies.

For international investors, Vista Harbor will participate in the EB-5 visa program, providing an immigration pathway through qualified investment. This addition is expected to attract global attention, especially from buyers seeking both lifestyle and residency opportunities in Miami.

Developer: Alta Development

Alta Development, the team behind Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club, is a respected Miami-based firm known for delivering high-quality projects that merge architectural innovation with functional luxury. Their portfolio includes successful developments such as Quadro Miami and Le Parc at Brickell.

Their track record of precision and design excellence makes Vista Harbor an especially exciting prospect for both homeowners and investors.

Key Highlights

• Developer: Alta Development
• Location: 555 NW South River Dr, Miami, FL 33136
• Waterfront Frontage: 550 feet of dockage
• Pricing: Starting from $699,000
• Rental Policy: Short-term rental friendly
• Visa Program: EB-5 eligible
• Nearby Hotspots: Kiki on the River, Seaspice, Bagatelle, Habibi, Casa Neos
• Expected Launch: Within the next few weeks

A Lifestyle Built for Miami

Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club embodies the essence of the Miami lifestyle—sun, sea, and sophistication. Whether you’re arriving by yacht, entertaining friends at the nearby beach club, or dining along the river, everything about this project has been designed for those who appreciate waterfront luxury and vibrant urban living.

From its resort-inspired amenities to its proximity to Miami’s culinary and cultural landmarks, Vista Harbor offers an exceptional balance of comfort, convenience, and opportunity.

Register for Early Access

Those interested in learning more about Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club, including floor plans and phase I pricing, can contact Lucas Lechuga at [email protected]. Offering rare yacht dockage, flexible ownership, and a prime riverfront address, Vista Harbor Residences & Yacht Club is expected to draw strong interest from both lifestyle buyers and investors in 2025.

Brooklyn Chop House Brings New York Swagger to Wynwood Miami This November

New York’s famed Brooklyn Chop House is making its highly anticipated Miami debut this fall, bringing its signature fusion of steakhouse sophistication and Asian-inspired creativity to the heart of Wynwood. Set to open November 11, 2025, at the Moxy Miami Wynwood, the two-level penthouse restaurant will offer one of Miami’s most dynamic dining and nightlife experiences. Reservations are now live on OpenTable for what promises to be one of the city’s most buzzworthy openings of the year.

A Bold New Dining Experience in Wynwood

Occupying the entire seventh floor of Moxy Miami Wynwood, Brooklyn Chop House Miami spans 20,000 square feet across two vibrant levels. The space blends natural wood tones, stone textures, and lush greenery into a refined “sea-meets-sand” aesthetic that feels distinctly Miami yet echoes New York’s bold luxury. Guests will find a seamless transition from the main dining room to a grand staircase that leads to the rooftop lounge above, creating a one-of-a-kind flow from dinner to nightlife.

The Concept: Steakhouse Classics Meet Asian Flair

Brooklyn Chop House has built its reputation on an imaginative culinary concept that merges traditional steakhouse fare with modern Asian influences. Under the leadership of owner and CEO Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins and hospitality visionary Stratis Morfogen, the restaurant celebrates both cultures through inventive dishes that range from premium dry-aged steaks to handmade dim sum. At the Miami location, Executive Chef Erick Melendez — formerly of MILA — infuses the menu with coastal energy and refined global techniques, incorporating crudos, seafood towers, and Asian-inspired rolls that elevate the brand’s signature offerings.

A Menu Designed to Impress

The Miami outpost introduces several exclusive dishes crafted specifically for the city’s palate. Standouts include the Chilean Satay, featuring tender Chilean sea bass marinated and grilled to perfection, and an impressive “chopping block” lineup of steaks tailored for true connoisseurs. The 34-ounce Bone-In Dry-Aged Tomahawk and Japanese Wagyu Ribeye headline the selection, while showstoppers like the whole Peking Duck and the indulgent “LSD” Tasting Menu — lobster, steak, and duck served together — create an unforgettable feast. The menu is rounded out by house favorites such as a 4-pound whole lobster, steamed seabass with black bean and garlic, and a wide array of dim sum options from wagyu gyoza to Peking duck bao.

From Dinner to Nightlife

Beyond the cuisine, Brooklyn Chop House Miami is designed as an immersive cultural experience. The penthouse setting sets the stage for an evening that evolves naturally from dinner to drinks and entertainment. As guests ascend to the rooftop lounge, they’re greeted by sweeping city views, handcrafted cocktails, and a lively soundtrack that captures the spirit of both New York and Miami — bold, luxurious, and undeniably stylish. Whether for an elegant dinner, a late-night celebration, or a private event, the new Wynwood destination promises to deliver energy and sophistication in equal measure.

A Perfect Fit for Miami’s Culinary Scene

Brooklyn Chop House’s arrival marks a significant addition to Miami’s thriving restaurant landscape. Its fusion of world-class dining and vibrant nightlife perfectly mirrors the pulse of Wynwood — a neighborhood defined by art, culture, and creativity. With its elevated menu, two-level layout, and unmistakable New York swagger, Brooklyn Chop House Miami is poised to become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike seeking a high-energy, culinary experience that lingers long after the last bite.

Brooklyn Chop House Miami
255 NW 25th Street, Miami, FL 33127
Grand Opening: November 11, 2025
Reservations: OpenTable | brooklynchophouse.com

Miami Slice Expands to Coconut Grove, Taking Over Former Harry’s Pizza Space

Miami’s acclaimed pizza hotspot Miami Slice is expanding to Coconut Grove, taking over the former Harry’s Pizza space at 2996 McFarlane Road. Known for its cult following and long lines at its original downtown location, Miami Slice has become synonymous with high-quality, New York-style slices crafted with precision and passion. The new Coconut Grove location marks a significant milestone for the brand as it continues to grow beyond its flagship in Downtown Miami.

The move into Coconut Grove represents a major win for the neighborhood’s ever-evolving dining scene. Once a quiet pocket of casual eateries, the Grove has transformed into one of Miami’s most dynamic culinary destinations, blending local charm with upscale, chef-driven concepts. Miami Slice’s arrival will fill a notable void left by Harry’s Pizza while introducing its signature approach—tight menus, elevated ingredients, and a modern aesthetic—to a community that values both quality and neighborhood spirit.

Unlike many pizzerias that aim to offer everything to everyone, Miami Slice has always thrived on simplicity and craftsmanship. Its dough undergoes an extended fermentation process before being double-baked to achieve a light, crisp texture with just the right amount of chew. The menu is expected to remain focused and intentional, featuring fan favorites such as the Margherita de la Casa, Pepperoni Proper, Leeks on Bacon, and Mushroom Truffle, alongside its famous house-made dips and sauces. The minimalistic menu has always been part of the brand’s charm—five core slices, one dessert, and a short but well-curated list of drinks—ensuring that every item is perfected.

The new space at McFarlane Road is considerably larger than Miami Slice’s compact downtown counter, which means fans can likely expect more seating, shorter wait times, and possibly even a few new surprises. Renovations are already underway to convert the former restaurant into a space that captures Miami Slice’s signature urban vibe—modern, high-energy, and unapologetically cool. While an official opening date has not yet been announced, the Coconut Grove outpost is projected to debut in 2026.

This expansion underscores Miami Slice’s growing influence and its ability to bridge Miami’s diverse culinary neighborhoods. Coconut Grove offers the perfect balance of foot traffic, local clientele, and a vibrant social scene—making it an ideal next chapter for the brand. For Grove residents and pizza enthusiasts alike, the arrival of Miami Slice promises not just another great place to eat, but a destination that continues to redefine what pizza can be in Miami’s ever-rising food culture.

AVA MediterrAegean Restaurant Sets Sail for Coconut Grove: A Luxe Mediterranean Dining Debut This November

Get ready, Miami food lovers: this November, AVA MediterrAegean will open its doors at 2889 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove — the location formerly occupied by Peacock Garden Café. Nestled in the heart of the Grove, this expansion marks Riviera Dining Group’s bold move to bring its signature Mediterranean-Aegean hospitality into one of Miami’s most storied neighborhoods.

Riviera Dining Group: The Ambitious Hospitality Brand Behind the Concept

Before diving into AVA’s arrival, it’s worth spotlighting the team behind it. Riviera Dining Group (RDG) is a luxury hospitality collective that operates a portfolio of elevated restaurant, lounge, and members-club concepts across South Florida. Their current brands include:

• MILA – a multi-venue rooftop restaurant, lounge, mixology bar, and omakase concept in Miami Beach
• Casa Neos – a waterfront/Miami River Mediterranean venue with beach-club and dock-&-dine offerings
• Claudie – a recent French/Mediterranean sister concept launched in Brickell in February 2025
• AVA MediterrAegean – their Aegean-driven brand, currently with one location in Winter Park, Florida, and soon in Coconut Grove.
• MM – the members-club platform that often integrates with their restaurant venues

RDG’s business model is as much about lifestyle and experiential hospitality as fine dining — blending design, service, culinary craft, and exclusivity. Their expansion is backed by outside capital: in December 2021, Mohari Hospitality (founded by Mark Scheinberg) took a significant minority stake in RDG to support concept development and growth. This partnership helps explain the financial muscle behind AVA’s ambitious rollout and the property acquisition in Coconut Grove.

RDG is often lauded for “record-breaking success” with MILA. Their success with that flagship has given them a strong platform from which to expand into other neighborhoods and concepts.

MILA’s Performance: Is It Truly One of the U.S. Top-Grossing Restaurants?

Is MILA among the highest-grossing restaurants in the United States? The short answer is yes — within its niche.

In Restaurant Business’s “Top 100 Independents” rankings for 2024, MILA placed #2, with reported sales of about $49,088,032. That positions MILA as one of the top-grossing independent (i.e. non-chain) restaurants in the U.S.

To give additional context:

• In 2023, MILA reported roughly $31.2 million in annual sales, per Restaurant Business.
• Its rising trajectory and positioning in a competitive, high-stakes Miami market have drawn industry attention.
• News and hospitality trade coverage frequently refer to MILA as “high-earning” or “record-breaking” when discussing RDG’s expansion.

So while MILA might not be the single absolute highest-grossing restaurant in the U.S. (many comparisons are tricky depending on chains vs independents), it indisputably ranks among the top in its class — a feat that adds credibility and buzz to AVA’s impending launch.

The 2889 McFarlane Road Site: From Peacock Garden to AVA’s Next Chapter

The address chosen for AVA — 2889 McFarlane Road — has a rich local history and strategic appeal:

• The property is a 6,369-square-foot ground-floor commercial condo within the Mutiny on the Park / Hotel Arya condominium development.
• In 2022, the site (then housing Peacock Garden Café) was sold by developer Ricardo Dunin and restaurateur Lalo Durazo for $9.5 million (about $1,500 per square foot) to Mohari Coconut Grove, connected to Mohari Hospitality.
• Following that acquisition, Riviera Dining Group (via its partnership with Mohari) was slated to operate a future restaurant concept in the space.
• Riviera Dining Group announces that AVA MediterrAegean will open this November at 2889 McFarlane Road — the spot formerly occupied by Peacock Garden.
• The Peacock Garden Café itself was a well-known Grove institution (alfresco garden dining, drinks, event space) and longtime community favorite before its closure.

This means that AVA isn’t just opening a restaurant — it’s reviving a high-profile, beloved location with a deep residential and culinary pedigree. The transition from garden-style café to immersive Mediterranean destination will be watched closely by locals and foodies alike.

What AVA MediterrAegean Will Bring to Coconut Grove

When AVA opens, it will likely offer:

• A Mediterranean / Aegean culinary program — building on the brand’s design and ethos of blending Greek traditions with contemporary flair (as hinted in their “coming soon” announcement)
• An immersive ambiance — Riviera’s prior venues emphasize design, ambiance, and multi-sensory experience
• A membership or private space component (MM Club) — reports suggest AVA will include its own members’ club space akin to those in other RDG venues
• A new dimension for the Grove’s dining scene, attracting both locals and destination diners

Coconut Grove’s Dining Scene Levels Up

With AVA MediterrAegean’s arrival, Coconut Grove is set to welcome another high-profile restaurant to its flourishing culinary roster. The neighborhood has already attracted major names like Carbone Vino, Major Food Group’s Italian concept, along with local standouts such as Ossobuco Coconut Grove, Level 6, and Amal Miami. Together, these destinations highlight Coconut Grove’s evolution into a serious culinary hotspot. AVA’s debut will not only introduce an Aegean-inspired dining experience but also reinforce the Grove’s reputation as one of Miami’s most dynamic dining neighborhoods, drawing both locals and visitors in search of world-class cuisine.

Selva Nightclub to Debut in Brickell Above Amazónico Miami

Brickell is about to get a lot louder after dark.

This Fall, the vibrant financial district will welcome its first true nightclub — Selva, a high-energy nightlife concept described as “the dark side of the jungle.” The nightclub will be located above Amazónico Miami, a rainforest-inspired restaurant opening in September 2025 at 800 Brickell Avenue.

Selva is owned and operated by the team behind Amazónico, an internationally renowned restaurant brand with locations in Madrid, London, Dubai, and now Miami. Known for lush interiors, exotic flavors, and elevated dining, Amazónico brings the Amazon rainforest to life — and Selva promises to take that same jungle energy into the night.

While details remain limited, Selva’s official website teases a mysterious, immersive atmosphere that blends music, glamour, and tropical edge — perfectly aligned with Brickell’s evolving identity as a luxury lifestyle destination.

This marks a major shift for Brickell, which, until now, has been largely without a dedicated nightclub scene. With Selva’s arrival, Brickell residents and visitors may no longer need to travel to Wynwood or South Beach for an upscale nightlife experience.

Amazónico and Selva will both be located at 800 Brickell Avenue, in the heart of Miami’s urban core. As the lines between fine dining and nightlife continue to blur, this dynamic duo is poised to become a game-changer for the area.

Stay tuned for updates as more details — and opening night announcements — are revealed.