Mexican-Inspired Steakhouse Toca Madera Coming Soon to Brickell

Amid Brickell’s already sizzling fine dining scene, a bold new player is preparing to make its debut: Toca Madera, a high-end, Mexican-inspired steakhouse from hospitality powerhouse Noble 33. The restaurant is rising from the ground up in a newly constructed three-story building directly south of the iconic Brickell Flatiron tower, as confirmed by signage on the construction fence.

Known for its sultry design, theatrical flair, and bold, elevated take on Mexican cuisine, Toca Madera has become a go-to destination in cities like West Hollywood, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale. The Brickell location will mark the brand’s first Miami location—but not Noble 33’s first foray into the Magic City. The hospitality group already operates two highly popular restaurants in Wynwood: Sparrow Italia, known for its coastal Italian flavors, and Casa Madera, an immersive, high-energy dining experience. Both have quickly gained traction among locals and visitors alike.

Toca Madera Brickell is being developed as a ground-up, three-story flagship restaurant—an increasingly rare move in a dense urban district where most eateries adapt existing spaces. The site itself carries historical significance: it was previously home to the sales gallery for Brickell Flatiron, the 64-story luxury condo tower developed by Ugo Colombo’s CMC Group. The gallery once served as a stylish pre-sales hub for what would become one of Brickell’s most architecturally distinctive towers. With the sales center gone and the lot cleared, the space has now been reimagined as one of the neighborhood’s most anticipated new dining destinations.

While details about the restaurant’s interior design and rooftop potential are still under wraps, Toca Madera is expected to follow the brand’s signature format—complete with dramatic lighting, immersive décor, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant, upscale energy that often transitions seamlessly into nightlife. Given the building’s scale and positioning within the Brickell core, this new location is likely to become a hotspot for upscale dinners, evening celebrations, and weekend indulgence.

No official opening date has been announced, but construction appears to be progressing rapidly. As Noble 33 expands its Miami footprint, the arrival of Toca Madera promises to raise the bar for Brickell’s evolving dining landscape.

Demolition Underway at Future Site of 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana

A major milestone has been reached for 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana, one of Miami’s most anticipated ultra-luxury condo developments. Demolition has officially begun at 888 Brickell Avenue, where the existing building—now fully wrapped and prepped for teardown—will soon make way for what is set to become the tallest residential tower in Brickell. The start of demolition signals real momentum for this high-profile project, which has already generated significant buzz for its fashion-forward branding, sky-high amenities, and record-setting pricing.

888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana is being developed by JDS Development Group, the New York–based firm behind other prominent South Florida ventures like Monad Terrace in Miami Beach. The tower will rise 1,049 feet and span 90 stories, establishing itself as a defining feature of the Brickell skyline. In a rare collaboration between high fashion and real estate, the project will be the first residential tower in the world fully branded and designed by Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana. The interiors, furnishings, and aesthetic direction of the residences and common spaces are being curated by the fashion label, infusing the building with signature opulence and craftsmanship.

Architecture for 888 Brickell is being led by Miami-based Sieger Suarez Architects, working alongside Studio Sofield, known for its ultra-luxury designs including Manhattan’s 111 West 57th Street. The tower will offer 259 branded residences, along with a members-only club, full-service spa, gourmet restaurants, and an expansive pool deck with cabanas and ocean views. Units range from one to four bedrooms, with prices starting at $2.2 million and the 3-story, crown-jewel penthouse asking $88 million.

With demolition now underway, 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana is one step closer to transforming this iconic stretch of Brickell Avenue. As vertical construction approaches, the tower promises to raise the bar for luxury living in Miami and establish a new benchmark for branded residential real estate.

8 South Florida Hotel Restaurants Make OpenTable & KAYAK’s Top 100 List

Hotel dining has officially entered a new era—one where travelers are booking stays not just for the rooms, but for the restaurants. According to OpenTable and KAYAK’s newly released Top 100 Hotel Restaurants in America, several standout eateries in South Florida are leading the charge, earning national acclaim for their exceptional cuisine and memorable experiences. The curated list, based on over 10 million OpenTable diner reviews from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, celebrates a wide spectrum of culinary excellence—from opulent fine dining to breezy brunch spots.

Among the South Florida honorees, Gianni’s at the Former Versace Mansion in Miami Beach remains a favorite for both its storied setting and upscale Italian fare. Located in the heart of South Beach, Gianni’s offers an elegant, fashion-imbued dining experience that blends historic charm with modern luxury. Just north in Sunny Isles Beach, Il Mulino New York continues to impress with its refined Italian menu and beachfront sophistication, offering diners an indulgent escape with views to match the cuisine.

Another notable inclusion is Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club in Surfside, part of the Four Seasons Hotel. Lido exemplifies Mediterranean refinement in a timeless oceanfront setting and is a favorite among culinary travelers seeking coastal luxury. For a more laid-back yet flavor-packed experience, Limonada Bar + Brunch in Miami Beach delivers colorful décor, Latin-inspired dishes, and a festive brunch atmosphere that resonates with both tourists and locals. Not far from there, Palace in South Beach has built a reputation for its high-energy vibe, inclusive atmosphere, and modern American fare, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a vibrant Miami dining experience. Also earning a spot on the prestigious Top 100 list is The Roof at Esmé, perched atop the boutique Esmé Hotel on Española Way. This intimate rooftop oasis blends coastal-Mediterranean flavors with boho-chic charm, offering curated cocktails, fresh seafood, and panoramic views of South Beach—ideal for sunset dinners or weekend brunches under the stars.

Venturing north to Delray Beach, Akira Back at The Ray Hotel stands out for its bold fusion of Korean and Peruvian flavors, crafted by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back. Its sleek interior and daring menu have made it a destination in its own right. Meanwhile, Henry’s Palm Beach offers classic American fare with a modern twist, catering to Palm Beach’s upscale crowd with timeless charm and warm hospitality.

According to the report, hotel restaurants are increasingly driving travel decisions. In fact, 47% of surveyed Americans admitted to choosing travel destinations based specifically on restaurant offerings. KAYAK’s data supports the trend, showing a 51% year-over-year increase in travelers filtering hotels by on-site dining options. Furthermore, 73% of travelers said an exceptional hotel dining experience would influence their decision to return—proof that memorable meals are now just as important as luxury accommodations.

For South Florida, these accolades signal more than just culinary excellence—they underscore the region’s growing role as a national dining destination. From the cultural fusion of Miami Beach to the refined palettes of Palm Beach, hotel restaurants across the region are setting new standards for hospitality and cuisine alike. Whether you’re a traveler looking to dine with a view or a local in search of a weekend splurge, these celebrated spots prove that hotel dining in South Florida is not just back—it’s better than ever.

Jewelry Brand Ildico Buys Corner Retail Gem in Miami Design District for $35M

A prime retail property in the heart of the Miami Design District has changed hands in a major off-market transaction. The two-story commercial building located at 3800 NE 2nd Avenue sold for $35 million, reflecting the continued strength and desirability of Miami’s luxury retail corridor. The buyer, Beverly Hills-based jeweler Ildico, acquired the property through an entity tied to its CFO, Mikhail Cohen. The deal represents a significant expansion for the high-end jewelry brand as it plants deeper roots in the South Florida market.

Built in 1926, the building spans 9,445 square feet and is currently home to luxury retail tenants including Listone Giordano, L’Atellier Paris Haute Design, and CNCPTS Miami. The $35 million purchase price equates to approximately $3,701 per square foot, underscoring the premium investors are willing to pay for flagship-quality real estate in the Design District. The sellers—veteran Miami investors Sam Herzberg, David Herzberg, and Richard Do—originally purchased the building in 2015 for $11.4 million, making this transaction a 208% increase in value over a ten-year period.

This transaction further solidifies the Miami Design District’s status as one of the nation’s top-tier luxury retail destinations. Home to internationally renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Hermès, the neighborhood has been strategically transformed by development firms such as Dacra, Brookfield, and L Catterton. As demand for retail space in the district continues to climb, so do prices—both in terms of lease rates and sale values.

The deal was brokered by Joe Fernandez, Tony Arellano, and Devlin Marinoff of DWNTWN Realty Advisors, who have facilitated more than 40 deals in the Design District over the past 15 years. Their deep understanding of the area’s market dynamics played a key role in bringing the off-market deal to fruition.

Located at the intersection of NE 2nd Avenue and NE 38th Street, the 3800 NE 2nd Avenue property sits just one block from Palm Court and within walking distance to the district’s most trafficked luxury boutiques and art installations. The building’s strategic corner location and historic character further elevate its value in a district known for architecturally significant properties and experiential retail environments.

This sale also comes amid a broader wave of investment activity in the area. Just blocks away, plans have been filed for a 20-story residential and retail tower, while nearby developments such as Cassi—a $125 million luxury apartment and retail project—signal ongoing momentum in the district’s evolution.

With this acquisition, Ildico joins a growing list of private and institutional investors targeting the Miami Design District for long-term positioning. As retail trends continue to favor experiential, luxury-driven environments, properties like 3800 NE 2nd Avenue are proving to be some of the most valuable and resilient assets in Miami’s commercial landscape.

Miami Tops Altrata’s 2025 Report as the Global Epicenter for Ultra-Wealthy Second Homes

According to Altrata’s newly released Residential Real Estate 2025 report, Miami has officially cemented its position as the top destination in the world for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals seeking second homes. With over 13,200 UHNW individuals owning secondary residences in the Magic City, Miami now outranks all other U.S. cities—including New York and Los Angeles—in this category. Globally, it ranks #1 as the most popular second-home destination for the ultra wealthy, a testament to its rising global status and appeal among elite buyers.

Several factors continue to make Miami an irresistible draw for the ultra-wealthy. Florida’s tax-friendly policies—particularly the absence of a state income tax—have long made Miami a haven for wealth preservation and strategic investing. But beyond financial benefits, Miami offers a lifestyle that few global cities can match. Its year-round sunshine, vibrant arts and culture scene, thriving culinary destinations, and pristine beaches combine to create an ideal environment for both full-time living and seasonal retreats. Furthermore, Miami’s geographic location and international airport offer unmatched access to Latin America, Europe, and key financial hubs, making it a practical and prestigious base for international UHNW individuals.

The report also places Miami among the top five cities worldwide in total UHNW residential footprint, alongside global heavyweights like London, Hong Kong, New York, and Los Angeles. This reinforces a growing trend: the ultra wealthy are increasingly viewing Miami not just as a vacation destination but as a cornerstone in their global real estate portfolios. As the global UHNW population is projected to grow by more than 33% over the next five years, Altrata anticipates that demand for high-end residential real estate will follow suit—and Miami is poised to absorb a significant portion of that surge.

For Miami’s real estate professionals, developers, and investors, the data presents clear opportunities. Demand is expected to skyrocket for luxury condos, waterfront estates, and gated communities—particularly in neighborhoods like Miami Beach, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables. New development projects that prioritize privacy, design sophistication, top-tier amenities, and global branding will have a distinct edge in this new landscape. Additionally, marketing strategies must be tailored to UHNW sensibilities, highlighting security, exclusivity, and long-term asset value.

Looking ahead, Miami’s luxury real estate market is entering a new era of international significance. With the UHNW population projected to grow rapidly and Miami emerging as a clear favorite, we can expect a rise in upscale development, increased buyer competition, and a greater emphasis on properties that deliver both lifestyle and legacy value. For agents, investors, and developers, now is the time to double down on Miami’s unprecedented momentum.

The Residential Real Estate 2025 report from Altrata doesn’t just confirm what many in the industry already suspected—it quantifies it. Miami isn’t just hot. It’s global, it’s elite, and it’s leading the charge in the future of luxury residential real estate.

Donald Soffer, Visionary Developer of Aventura, Dies at 92

Donald Soffer, the visionary real estate developer who transformed a stretch of North Miami-Dade swamp into what is now the thriving city of Aventura, passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in 1932 in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, Soffer attended Brandeis University on a football scholarship and began his career building shopping malls for his family’s company, Don Mark Realty. His early projects included South Hills Village, Pittsburgh’s first indoor mall, completed in 1965.

In 1967, Soffer made what would become a transformative investment: he and a group of investors purchased 785 acres of undeveloped land in South Florida for $6 million. Recognizing the potential for something extraordinary, Soffer set out to develop what would become Aventura—a name chosen because it means “adventure” in Spanish. Over the years, he oversaw the dredging, rezoning, and master planning of the area. By 1970, high-rise condo towers began to rise, and by 1977, the area boasted 4,000 residential units and a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Following a split with Arlen Realty in 1977, Soffer founded Turnberry Associates and expanded his vision. Among his signature projects was the development of Aventura Mall, one of the largest and most successful shopping centers in the country. His portfolio grew to include the Turnberry Isle Resort, JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, and a variety of luxury condominium and hotel projects. Through his companies, Soffer helped redefine luxury living and shopping in South Florida.

Soffer’s legacy is also carried forward by his children. Jackie Soffer now leads Turnberry Associates, which retains ownership of Aventura Mall and several high-profile hotels, while Jeffrey Soffer runs Fontainebleau Development and is involved in major residential and resort developments. Donald Soffer was also a noted philanthropist, donating $15 million to Brandeis University in 2008—the largest gift in the school’s history at the time—and supporting numerous institutions including the University of Miami and local Jewish organizations. His name is immortalized in South Florida landmarks such as the Don Soffer Aventura Charter High School and the Don Soffer Clinical Research Center at the University of Miami.

Soffer’s vision and business acumen allowed him to buy land for as little as $5,000 an acre and sell it for millions, forever changing the landscape of Miami-Dade County. His work not only created a city but fostered a community that continues to thrive. On Monday, July 21, 2025, a memorial service celebrating Donald Soffer’s life and contributions will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center—a fitting tribute to the man who built so much of what surrounds it.

Donald Soffer will be remembered not only for his developments, but for the community and legacy he leaves behind. His passing marks the end of an era for South Florida, but the skyline and neighborhoods he helped create will stand as a living testament to his enduring impact.

5 Supertall Skyscrapers Set to Reshape Miami’s Skyline by 2030

Miami’s skyline is reaching new heights—literally. Over the next several years, the Magic City is expected to welcome five supertall skyscrapers, each rising more than 1,000 feet into the sky. From luxury-branded residences and iconic hotels to corporate headquarters and ambitious mixed-use towers, these projects signal Miami’s emergence as a world-class vertical city.

Below, we spotlight five supertall skyscrapers set to transform the city’s skyline by 2030:

1. Miami Riverbridge (Tower 3)

Height: 1,044 feet
Stories: 87
Location: 400 SE 2nd Ave, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030

Part of the ambitious redevelopment of the James L. Knight Center and Hyatt Regency site, Miami Riverbridge Tower 3 will be the tallest of three towers in the mixed-use project. Designed by Arquitectonica and developed by Gencom and Hyatt, the project includes a new convention center, hotel, and over 1,500 residential units. Once complete, Tower 3 will rise to 1,044 feet, nearly hitting the FAA’s maximum height limit for downtown Miami.

2. One Bayfront Plaza

Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 93
Location: 100 S Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2030

Originally approved over a decade ago, One Bayfront Plaza is Miami’s longest-standing supertall proposal. The tower will combine Class A office space, a luxury hotel, and residential units within a single, mixed-use structure. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), the tower is strategically located across from Bayfront Park and promises to be a game-changer for downtown.

3. Citadel HQ Tower

Height: ~1,049 feet
Stories: 62
Location: 1201 Brickell Bay Dr, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2030

Hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel, announced plans to move his company’s headquarters from Chicago to Miami—and with it, construct a Foster + Partners–designed tower that will anchor Miami’s growing financial core. The tower is expected to exceed 1,000 feet in height, featuring Citadel’s HQ offices along with supporting retail and public space. The move marks a defining moment in Miami’s evolution into a global financial hub.

4. 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana

Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 90
Location: 888 Brickell Avenue, Brickell
Estimated Completion: 2028

Developed by JDS Development Group, 888 Brickell will become one of Miami’s most iconic branded skyscrapers. Designed in partnership with Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana, the building will include 259 luxury residences and a five-star hotel. The design features a bold, stacked architectural form and interiors curated with opulent D&G flair. With FAA approval already in place for a 1,049-foot height, 888 Brickell is on track to be among the city’s tallest and most distinctive towers.

5. Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami

Height: 1,049 feet
Stories: 100
Location: 300 Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami
Estimated Completion: 2027

Currently under construction, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami will be the first 100-story building in Florida. Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with Carlos Ott, the tower features a stacked glass-cube design that’s already become an icon in renderings. Upon completion, it will house 360 private residences and a 205-key Waldorf Astoria hotel, redefining luxury living in Miami.

Final Thoughts

As Miami continues to attract global investors, finance executives, and lifestyle-driven buyers, these five supertall towers exemplify the city’s meteoric rise—both figuratively and literally. With multiple towers already under construction or FAA-approved at 1,049 feet, Miami is solidifying its place among the world’s great vertical skylines.

Whether you’re an investor, architecture enthusiast, or future resident, these upcoming supertalls are worth watching.

Interested in buying a condo in one of Miami’s future landmark towers?
Contact us today or explore our database of preconstruction buildings on MiamiCondoInvestments.com

Zara Founder Amancio Ortega in Contract to Buy Sabadell Financial Center in Brickell for $275M

Billionaire Amancio Ortega, the founder of global fashion empire Zara, is under contract to purchase the Sabadell Financial Center in Miami’s Brickell district for approximately $275 million. The 30-story office tower, located at 1111 Brickell Avenue, spans over 524,000 square feet and sits on a 1.8-acre parcel next to the JW Marriott. Built in 2000, the building is home to a branch of Banco Sabadell and is being sold by private equity giant KKR in partnership with Parkway. If finalized, this would mark the largest office sale in South Florida so far in 2025.

Ortega built his fortune through Inditex, the Spanish multinational retail conglomerate he founded in 1975. Inditex owns Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and several other prominent fashion brands. Ortega still owns about 59% of Inditex, a stake that generated approximately €3.1 billion in dividends for him this year. Rather than diversify into unrelated industries, Ortega has funneled much of his earnings into real estate through his investment arm, Pontegadea. The firm targets prime properties in major urban markets across the globe, with a focus on long-term value and stable income.

In recent years, South Florida has become a major focus for Pontegadea. Ortega’s local portfolio includes the Southeast Financial Center in Downtown Miami, acquired for $500 million in 2016; the Epic Hotel & Residences; a 16-story office building at 2701 South Le Jeune Road in Coral Gables; and a large retail block on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach. More recently, Ortega bought a 312,000-square-foot cold storage facility in Hialeah for $113 million in 2023, and last month closed on the 44-story Veneto Las Olas apartment tower in Fort Lauderdale for $165 million.

The pending acquisition of the Sabadell Financial Center comes at a time when many investors remain wary of the office sector due to rising vacancy rates and hybrid work trends. Yet Ortega’s purchase signals confidence in the long-term strength of Miami’s commercial real estate market, particularly in prime neighborhoods like Brickell. As one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, Ortega continues to expand his global property empire with a strategic eye toward trophy assets that generate consistent returns.

With this acquisition, Pontegadea further cements its position as a dominant player in South Florida real estate. Ortega’s approach—leveraging fashion industry profits to build a global real estate powerhouse—has proven remarkably successful. And Miami, with its growing financial sector and international appeal, remains a key piece of that strategy.

South Miami’s Sunset Place to Be Demolished and Reborn as 7-Tower Urban Village with 1,500+ Residences, Hotel & Theater

The long-time landmark known as Shops at Sunset Place—a sprawling, open-air mall that opened its doors in 1999—has officially entered its final act. After decades of dwindling foot traffic and frequent tenant turnovers, South Miami’s City Commission unanimously approved the mall’s demolition earlier this year. The aim? To clear the way for a sweeping redevelopment set to redefine the area’s urban identity.

From Mall to “Village”: Heatherwick Studio’s Vision

London-based Heatherwick Studio, led by acclaimed designer Thomas Heatherwick, has been tapped to reinvent the site as a vibrant, walkable community. The plan: dismantle the monolithic mall—and all but its parking structure—to make room for a mosaic of low-, mid-, and high-rise buildings artfully arranged around a new pedestrian-friendly street grid.

By reintroducing continuous streets that flow into the site—an urban concept Heatherwick describes as “bringing back streets”—developers hope to activate the core of the development and weave it into the larger South Miami fabric.

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

What to Expect: A Mixed‑Use Urban Destination

The approved master plan includes:

Residential units: 1,513 residences will bring a built-in population to enliven the streets

Retail and dining: A pedestrian-friendly “restaurant street” is envisioned, lined with boutique shops, cafés, bakeries, and restaurants—each storefront thoughtfully unique

Central public plaza: A sprawling, open-air plaza (approximately 15,000 square feet) will serve as the social heart of the project, ideal for pop-ups, markets, and nightlife

Hotel, offices, and theater: The redevelopment will include a boutique 287-key hotel, 50,892 square feet of office space, and a theater—possibly relocating the AMC cinema—which will amplify the site’s 18/7 vibrancy

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

Towering Heights: Gradual Density Integration

Heatherwick Studio’s design sensibility emerges in the height variations across the site:

This scaling plan delicately transitions the neighborhood from pedestrian-level charm (near Sunset Drive) to skyline-defining towers facing U.S. 1.

Honoring the Past, Building for the Future

Sunset Place isn’t the first retail experiment at this site. It traces its roots back to the Bakery Centre (1986–1996), a similarly sized retail‑office complex that failed. That history has made architects and developers cautious—but excited to “break the cycle of soulless places” in favor of designs meant to foster place and community.

Midtown Development acquired the site in early 2021—coincidentally in the thick of the COVID downturn—and partnered with Heatherwick to reimagine what a future‑forward South Miami centerpiece could be.

A Long-Brewing Transformation Timeline

Demolition of the Shops at Sunset Place is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2026, assuming approvals and site preparations stay on track. The mammoth redevelopment will unfold in multiple phases over the next 10 years. The very first phase—highlighted by newly constructed streets, a residential condo tower, and a 287‑room hotel—is expected to be delivered by 2029, according to city and developer projections.

While the full buildout will extend well beyond that, early activations such as pop-up shops, interim public plazas, and community programming may be introduced during construction to maintain momentum and vibrancy on the site. Midtown Development has emphasized its commitment to supporting local businesses and keeping the area lively throughout the transformation, ensuring that Sunset Place remains an engaging part of South Miami—even as construction progresses.

A Cultural and Urban Pivot

This isn’t just a structural overhaul—it’s a cultural shift. South Miami has committed to transforming a dormant, car-centric mall into an integrated, pedestrian-first destination. The redesign nods to European plazas with outdoor café seating while embracing modern mixed-use energy. It’s a bold move that channels global urban trends into this beloved Miami community.

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

Credit: Heatherwick Studio

Looking Ahead: A Bold New Vision for South Miami

Surpassing its legacy as a fading suburban mall, Sunset Place is poised to become a reinhabited, reactivated slice of South Miami. With Heatherwick Studio’s forward-thinking architecture, 1,513 new residences, lively streetscapes, and dynamic public spaces, what replaces it has the potential to become a transformative anchor for the region. For residents, developers, and visitors, this long-awaited change is more than construction—it’s the start of a more connected, walkable, and animated downtown South Miami.

Stay tuned as the cranes arrive, the streets return, and Sunset Place reboots—this time, as an urban village crafted for communities more than car trips.