MIKA Unveils Stunning New Interiors at The Plaza Coral Gables, Elevating Miami’s Dining Scene
MIKA by six Michelin-starred chef Michael White has unveiled its lavish new interiors at The Plaza Coral Gables, a masterpiece designed by the acclaimed Bishop Design. As White’s first standalone venture in Miami, MIKA is the result of his collaboration with Alex Pirez and Matt Safchik, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience. The restaurant highlights White’s signature take on coastal flavors, blending the best of Italy, France, and beyond with South Florida’s rich seafood and fresh produce.
The menu is a celebration of culinary artistry, featuring delicate crudos, house-made pastas, and expertly grilled proteins. Guests can pair their meals with classic cocktails and selections from an extensive wine list, housed in a stunning 1,700-bottle cellar. Devotees of Chef White’s cuisine will recognize iconic dishes like lobster burrata and fusilli with bone marrow, while also delighting in new offerings designed to capture Miami’s essence—such as spaghetti with blue crab and caviar.
MIKA’s philosophy is all about balancing high-quality ingredients with uncomplicated elegance. As White describes it, MIKA is “truffles in blue jeans,” where refined flavors meet effortless sophistication, all infused with the warmth of genuine hospitality.
The restaurant’s interior design reflects a timeless Mediterranean aesthetic, with natural stone elements, warm textures, and handcrafted lighting that create an inviting and luxurious ambiance. MIKA aspires to become a neighborhood favorite, offering the perfect setting for everything from intimate dinners to business meetings and chic evenings out.
With its exquisite cuisine, impeccable design, and welcoming atmosphere, MIKA is set to redefine Miami’s dining scene, bringing an unparalleled level of sophistication to The Plaza Coral Gables.
Alhambra Parc: Redefining Luxury Living in Coral Gables
Miami-based real estate development firm MG Developer, in partnership with Vertical Developments, has officially launched sales for Alhambra Parc, an eagerly awaited mixed-use development in the heart of Coral Gables. Situated at 33 Alhambra Circle, this sophisticated project blends contemporary design, premium amenities, and urban elegance, further enriching the architectural heritage of the City Beautiful.
Alhambra Parc presents an unparalleled opportunity for discerning buyers seeking an exclusive lifestyle in one of South Florida’s most prestigious neighborhoods. With prices starting at $1.1 million, the development caters to those who appreciate Coral Gables’ rich cultural legacy, walkability, and proximity to world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. ONE Sotheby’s International Realty serves as the exclusive broker, handling marketing and sales for the project.
Designed by Bellin & Pratt Architects, the eight-story, 170,000-square-foot development will feature:
78 luxury residences
13,000 square feet of office space
Nearly 18,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space
Residences range from 860 to 2,800 square feet and offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, each boasting expansive terraces for seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Alhambra Parc is meticulously designed to offer residents a selection of carefully curated amenities that enhance comfort and convenience, including:
Two rooftop decks featuring a pool, spa, and outdoor kitchens
Paraiso Garden and yoga garden for relaxation and mindfulness
Several serene green spaces on the top floor
A dedicated children’s playroom
A state-of-the-art fitness center
A business center with coworking spaces
A residents’ lounge for social gatherings
Located just steps from Downtown Coral Gables and the renowned Miracle Mile, Alhambra Parc places residents at the center of a vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural scene, fine dining, and upscale shopping. The project embraces the timeless elegance of Coral Gables while integrating modern luxury.
With its strategic location, sophisticated design, and unparalleled amenities, Alhambra Parc is poised to redefine luxury living in Coral Gables. As sales commence, prospective buyers have an exclusive opportunity to secure a residence in one of Miami’s most distinguished communities.
A New Era in Coconut Grove: Crema Gourmet Opens at Lulu’s Former Spot
Miami’s newest Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar quietly debuted late last month, taking over the location where Lulu had served brunch to Grove regulars for over a decade.
For 13 years, Lulu in the Grove held a special place at 3105 Commodore Plaza. While it may not have attracted the long lines of its across-the-street neighbor Greenstreet Café, Lulu carved out its niche with crowd favorites like Brussels sprouts and goat cheese croquetas and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for leisurely brunches and afternoon bites. The closure marks the end of an era for the Grove’s dining scene.
Crema Gourmet’s new location brings its signature minimalist aesthetic to the space, featuring white brick walls and seating options both indoors and outdoors. This opening marks the South Florida coffee chain’s 18th location, further solidifying its presence in the region.
The menu caters to all-day dining, offering breakfast staples like sandwiches on brioche and croissants, along with refreshing açaí bowls topped with fresh fruit. For lunch and dinner, diners can enjoy hearty quinoa bowls, penne pasta dishes, and sandwiches filled with prosciutto or chicken. Alongside Illy coffee drinks and fresh-pressed juices, Crema also serves wine and craft beer into the evening, making it a versatile spot for every time of day.
The arrival of Crema Gourmet coincides with a broader transformation of Coconut Grove’s dining scene. In 2011, the strip was defined by Lulu and Greenstreet Café, while CocoWalk stood half-empty. Today, the Grove buzzes with new energy as more establishments breathe life into this iconic neighborhood.
While Lulu’s closure has left a void for its longtime fans, Crema Gourmet’s arrival signals a fresh chapter for 3105 Commodore Plaza. As the Grove continues to evolve, it’s clear this corner remains at the heart of the neighborhood’s vibrant dining culture.
CMC Group Secures $69.9 Million Loan for 4000 Ponce/The Collection in Coral Gables
CMC Group has obtained a significant $69.9 million loan from City National Bank of Florida (CNB) for the refinancing of 4000 Ponce/The Collection. This nine-story, Class-A mixed-use office and retail development, situated in the heart of Coral Gables, was developed by CMC Group Founder Ugo Colombo in 2002. The Mediterranean-style building is not only an architectural marvel but also a hub for luxury and business, featuring The Collection, a high-end car dealership showcasing brands such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Porsche.
Located at the intersection of Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Bird Road, 4000 Ponce/The Collection encompasses 150,000 square feet of Class A office space and 32,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. The property boasts over 90% occupancy, with prestigious tenants including Steinway & Sons, Coldwell Banker, and Hemisphere Media Group.
“Our ability to secure this refinancing for 4000 Ponce is a testament to the building’s enduring value and strategic significance in the Coral Gables market,” said Ugo Colombo. “As the anchor of Coral Gables’ Southern Business District, 4000 Ponce not only boasts a premier walkable setting adjacent to The Shops at Merrick Park, but also a top-tier tenant roster including The Collection’s flagship location, which has called the building home for more than 20 years. With this refinancing, 4000 Ponce continues to set the standard for being one of the most prestigious business addresses in Miami, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of sophistication and quality in the market.”
The refinancing process was facilitated by JLL Capital Markets, with a team led by Senior Managing Director Paul Stasaitis, Associate Paul Adams, and Analyst Nicole Barba. Legal representation was provided by Jim Shindell and Hannah Lidicker of Bilzin Sumberg. The five-year, floating-rate senior loan secured through City National Bank of Florida underscores the building’s robust market presence and the sponsor’s proven track record.
Gary Fitzgerald, Executive Vice President and Real Estate Banking Executive at City National Bank of Florida, added, “CMC Group has been one of Florida’s most prolific real estate firms for more than 30 years, and 4000 Ponce has been a centerpiece of commercial activity in Coral Gables since its development. Our decision to finance the asset aligned closely with our dual focus on relationship banking and providing capital to clients that are fueling Florida’s real estate market, which is among the nation’s strongest.”
Built in 2002, 4000 Ponce features a grand lobby adorned with marble, Venetian stucco, cherry millwork, and bronze accents, embodying Mediterranean-style architecture. Each office floor offers approximately 30,000 rentable square feet with flexible floor plans. The building is equipped with advanced broadband communications, high-speed internet, data network services, and ample on-site parking.
The strategic location of 4000 Ponce/The Collection offers tenants easy access to executive housing, The Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables trolley service, a nearby MetroRail station, and proximity to US-1 and Miami International Airport.
Ponce Park Residences Update in Coral Gables
Under the leadership of Allen and Spencer Morris, the Allen Morris Company has received commission approval for an exciting new project: Ponce Park Residences. This luxury condo development is set to become a significant addition to the heart of Coral Gables. Situated at the prestigious intersection of Ponce De Leon Boulevard and University Drive, Ponce Park Residences is poised to become an iconic building in “The City Beautiful.”
On May 21, the Coral Gables commission unanimously voted 5-0 in favor of Ponce Park Residences. Designed by the esteemed architect John Cunningham, the project pays homage to the Mediterranean influences that define Coral Gables. Cunningham, renowned for his design of the timeless Alhambra Towers—another landmark owned and developed by The Allen Morris Company—brings his expertise to create a structure that blends seamlessly into a new city park. The project also features landscape design by Naturalficial, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Ponce Park Residences will feature approximately 20,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, including two world-renowned restaurants and a top-tier wellness spa. The tower will house 57 ultra-luxury condo units designed by Meyer Davis. Each unit will boast the finest Italian kitchens and countertops, 12-foot deep balconies equipped with summer kitchens, and clear ceiling heights of 11 to 12 feet. The rooftop deck will offer 30,000 square feet of amenities, including multiple pools, a cold plunge, a hot tub, and a fully staffed private rooftop bar with stunning views of South Gables and Biscayne Bay.
Residents will enjoy a boutique urban lifestyle with access to over 100 shops and restaurants located at the $1 billion mixed-use development, The Plaza Coral Gables, directly across the street. Additionally, the Miracle Mile corridor, known for its vibrant shopping and dining options, is just a short walk away.
The Allen Morris Company is committed to enhancing the community. They will contribute $2 million in public improvements and take on the responsibility for the redesign of Ponce Circle Park, the city’s central park. The total investment in park improvements will exceed $9 million, ensuring a beautiful and functional space for all residents to enjoy.
Sales for Ponce Park Residences are set to launch in the summer of 2024.
Coral Gables’ 4225 Ponce Development, a Class A+ Commercial and Retail Opportunity
Constellation Group, a distinguished commercial real estate investment and development firm based in Miami, in collaboration with The Boschetti Group, has successfully secured a substantial $33 million construction loan from Miami’s Banesco USA and Abanca. This funding is a strategic investment in the development of a Class A+ boutique office and retail complex at 4225 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, located in the heart of Coral Gables, South Florida’s City Beautiful and Merrick Park district. Renowned for its upscale shopping and entertainment, this area is a hub for economic growth and opportunity.
Eduardo Otaola, the Managing Principal at Constellation Group, highlighted the significance of this partnership and the potential of 4225 Ponce to introduce a unique, boutique-style Class A office environment to Coral Gables. This development is strategically positioned in a market that is currently experiencing limited supply, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
The project involves an eight-story building, spanning approximately 85,000 square feet between 4225 and 4311 Ponce de Leon. This venture is distinguished by its innovative design from the internationally acclaimed architectural firm, Arquitectonica. The luxury boutique-style Class A Office will feature 5,900 square feet of ground floor retail space, extensive parking facilities, 70,000 square feet of premium office space, and a rooftop food and beverage venue of 7,000 square feet, offering panoramic city views.
Amelia Rodriguez, Senior Vice President of Banesco USA, expressed optimism about the sustained economic growth in South Florida and the role of 4225 Ponce in enriching Coral Gables’ status as a prime business and cultural hub. This project aligns with Banesco USA’s vision of investing in innovative and dynamic projects, indicating a strong future for similar endeavors.
Monica Vasquez, General Manager at Abanca, emphasized the transformative nature of this collaboration, aimed at enhancing the urban, cultural, and economic landscape of Coral Gables. This development is a testament to Abanca’s commitment to supporting visionary and impactful projects.
Set to break ground in Q4 2023 and slated for completion in 2025, this project signifies a major revitalization initiative around Coral Gables’ Merrick Park district. It aims to elevate the business and consumer landscape of the area. Interior Architects, Inc. and Naturalificial will play crucial roles in designing the interior and landscape, ensuring a harmonious blend of nature and modernity.
Investors should note the project’s unique features, including four stories of Class A+ office space, a rooftop restaurant with city views, outdoor terraces, ground-floor retail spaces, and a 1,500-square-foot lounge. The addition of a covered pedestrian plaza and paseo with valet parking service is expected to enhance the appeal and functionality of the development, making it a lucrative investment opportunity in a thriving economic zone.
4241 Aurora Ushers in New Era of Upscale Living in Coral Gables
The recent approval of 4241 Aurora, a new project by Miami’s renowned real estate developers Constellation Group and The Boschetti Group, presents a unique investment opportunity. This Mediterranean-style mixed-use development, masterfully designed by the globally acclaimed Arquitectonica, is strategically positioned at 4241 Aurora Street in Coral Gables’ innovative Design and Innovation District. This development not only signifies a successful navigation through a stringent approval process but also introduces an upscale, mixed-use residential and commercial hub in the thriving heart of Merrick Park, Coral Gables’ prime shopping and entertainment zone.
Eduardo Otaola, Managing Principal of Constellation Group, emphasizes that 4241 Aurora is set to become a vital asset in Merrick Park, enhancing the district’s growing allure as a global destination with high-end amenities including premier restaurants, educational institutions, parks, and international business hubs.
Jose Boschetti from The Boschetti Group highlights the project’s commitment to creating a dynamic environment that fuses luxury living with substantial business and community growth opportunities. This development is poised to be a significant addition to Coral Gables, contributing to the city’s legacy of excellence.
4241 Aurora offers an enticing composition of eight floors of luxury residential condos, coupled with three levels dedicated to parking, retail, and office spaces. The development, standing at 137.5 feet, will feature a 5,000 square-foot park with verdant landscaping, public art, and ground-floor retail overlooking Merrick Park.
The residential segment provides a range of condominiums from two-bedroom units of 1,016 sq. ft. to larger three-bedroom residences with dens of 1,860 sq. ft. Exclusive amenities include a grand lobby, a rooftop lounge for residents, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a swimming pool, a pickleball court, commercial retail spaces, and outdoor dining areas with grilling stations.
Projected to break ground in the second quarter of 2024, 4241 Aurora is a prominent addition to Constellation Group’s portfolio in South Florida. The firm’s current projects include a luxury boutique office building in Merrick Park, Ella Miami Beach – a 10-story boutique condominium in North Beach, and SeaGlass Cove – a luxury private enclave of 14 oceanfront single-family homes in the Florida Keys. These developments represent substantial investment opportunities in some of South Florida’s most desirable locations.
The Avenue Hotel & Residences Breaks Ground
The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables, an exclusive 8-story Parisian-inspired neo-classical boutique condominium and hotel, has commenced construction. This prestigious development, situated directly opposite Merrick Park, is the brainchild of Oscar Roger, President and CEO of the esteemed Roger Development Group, a family-run entity renowned in the real estate development and management sector.
The groundbreaking ceremony, a significant event in the property’s journey, was held on November 1st at the project’s sales center at 351 San Lorenzo Avenue. Spearheaded by the formidable father-son duo, Oscar, Sr. and Oscar Roger, Jr., the event was graced by their partners Zarko Cukic, Jose Espantoso, and Veronica Rey, alongside key figures from the design team. This includes Architect Willy Bermello of Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Interior Designer Adriana Hoyos, and Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, a principal figure at Cervera Real Estate. Thornton, the project’s general contractor, was also represented.
The event attracted Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago and over 75 influential members of the local civic and business community. The gathering was a celebration of the project’s progress, marked by a toast and the ceremonial first sand toss using branded silver shovels.
Oscar Roger, the driving force behind the project, expressed his enthusiasm for this landmark development, emphasizing its alignment with Coral Gables’ world-class standards. Oscar Roger, Jr. highlighted the project’s evolution from a concept to a city-defining landmark, praising Cervera Real Estate for their exceptional sales performance, with over 75% of the units already sold.
Cervera Lamadrid of Cervera Real Estate, the exclusive sales and marketing firm for the project, expressed confidence in its success, citing its exceptional design, quality, and prime location opposite Merrick Park as key factors driving demand.
The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables is not just a property, but a statement of luxury and exclusivity. It offers 48 residences with sophisticated one- and two-bedroom layouts, ranging from 598 to 1,200 square feet, and priced between $730,000 to over $1.3M. Each unit boasts contemporary Italian-style kitchens and baths, equipped with high-end appliances from Miele, Subzero, or Wolf. The property features over 3,800 square feet of ground floor retail space, a front desk reception, and hotel services designed to elevate the living experience. Amenities include valet parking, newspaper and package delivery services, and a resort-style pool deck on Level 9 with a summer kitchen and dining area.
The project is slated for completion in early 2025, promising to be a beacon of luxury and sophistication in the city.
The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables Scheduled to Break Ground in November 2023
In the heart of Miami-Dade County, a new Parisian-inspired mixed-use development is set to redefine luxury living and investment opportunities. The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables, spearheaded by the renowned Roger Development Group, is not just another real estate project. It’s an emblem of opulence and strategic investment.
With groundbreaking slated for early November, this venture has already garnered significant interest with over 65% of residences already sold.
The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables stands as an eight-story mid-rise edifice, boasting 48 exquisitely designed residences. Each home, ranging from 598 to 1,200 square feet, is a masterpiece in itself, coming fully furnished and ready for occupancy. For those keen on retail opportunities, the ground floor will house six retail condos, all of which have already been snapped up.
For potential investors or residents, the remaining units are priced between $730,000 to $1.3 million. Beyond the individual units, the community offers a plethora of amenities designed for an elite lifestyle. From a state-of-the-art summer kitchen and a lavish swimming pool deck to a family dining area, every feature speaks of luxury and comfort.
Its strategic location further enhances its appeal. Situated just a short distance from the Shops at Merrick Park, residents and visitors have easy access to a myriad of dining options and commercial ventures.
The project’s architectural brilliance can be credited to Bermello Ajamil & Partners, while Thornton Construction Co. takes the helm as the general contractor. The Avenue Hotel & Residences Coral Gables will grace an 11,000-square-foot lot at 351 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables, FL, 33146.
Erba: A Culinary Ode to Italian Classics with a Miami Twist
Straight from the bustling corridors of Wall Street, where investment strategies and market trends dominate conversations, Chef Niven Patel introduces a refreshing narrative with his latest venture, Erba, in Coral Gables. This Italian culinary haven, while rooted in tradition, is infused with the vibrant essence of South Florida.
Gone are the conventional clams in your linguine al vongole, replaced by the rich flavors of braised Bahamian conch. The menu subtly nods to Miami with hearts of palm taking the place of artichokes and the rotolo pasta boasting calabaza squash.
The heirloom tomato dish, a staple in many Italian eateries, at Erba surprises with smoked grouper tonnato instead of the expected tuna. Even the beloved tiramisu undergoes a transformation, with espresso and rum paying homage to Miami’s Latin heritage.
Strategically positioned in Coral Gables at 227 South Dixie Highway, Erba is a stone’s throw away from Patel’s other masterpieces: the Michelin-acknowledged Orno and the exotic Mamey, both nestled within the luxurious confines of the Thesis Hotel. Erba, a collaboration between Patel and Mohamed Alkassar of the Alpareno Restaurant Group, promises a gastronomic journey spotlighting local treasures.
Chef Patel, a James Beard nominee and recognized as one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs in 2020, is renowned for his commitment to sourcing ingredients from his own farm, Rancho Patel. The creation of Erba’s menu, however, took a different approach. Instead of starting with a dish in mind, Patel and his team began with ingredients, crafting dishes around them, resulting in a truly distinctive menu.
The offerings at Erba span from the depths of the ocean to the richness of the land. Classic dishes are reimagined with Patel’s innovative touch, such as the Mishima Reserve Denver steak paired with a tantalizing bone marrow salsa verde. The menu is dynamic, changing with the seasons, ensuring the freshest ingredients grace your plate.
Even the cocktail offerings, curated in partnership with mixologist Scott Beattie of the Michelin-starred Barndiva, showcase the best of Rancho Patel, with concoctions like the Butterfly, a blend of Rancho Patel pea flowers, yuzu, and pickled huckleberries.
While Coral Gables continues to establish itself as a gastronomic paradise, Alkassar is confident in Erba’s unique position. He believes the community values quality, authenticity, and genuine hospitality – principles that Erba embodies to its core.
Miami’s newest Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar quietly debuted late last month, taking over the location where Lulu had served brunch to Grove regulars for over a decade.
