The Setai Miami Beach Unveils Jo’s Bar, a Stunning Reimagining of Its Iconic Lobby Bar
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
A Timeless New Gathering Space at The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai, Miami Beach has officially unveiled Jo’s Bar, a beautifully reimagined version of its iconic lobby bar that blends Art Deco heritage with contemporary warmth and refined elegance. Designed by the acclaimed Saladino Design Studios, Jo’s Bar reinforces The Setai’s reputation as one of the world’s most design-forward luxury hotels.
The redesign follows Saladino Design Studios’ celebrated work on Japón, previously recognized among the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants by Prix Versailles 2025. With Jo’s Bar, the firm has created a space that feels intimate, elevated, and effortlessly timeless.
Honoring Art Deco Heritage with Modern Sophistication
The vision for Jo’s Bar was rooted in respecting The Setai’s original Art Deco character while introducing a renewed sense of warmth and energy. Named in tribute to owner Joe of the Nakash Family, the bar adds a personal and welcoming layer to the hotel’s iconic lobby experience.
Centrally positioned between Jaya and Japón, and overlooking the serene central courtyard, Jo’s Bar naturally connects The Setai’s dining destinations. The result is a refined gathering point that feels equally suited for pre-dinner cocktails, relaxed afternoons, or late-night conversations.
A Sculptural Bar Design That Becomes the Lobby’s Centerpiece
At the heart of Jo’s Bar is a dramatic sculptural back bar composed of intricately designed floating resin blocks embedded with gold leaf. Ten-foot glass shelves framed in brushed brass hover in front of the illuminated installation, transforming the bottle display into a glowing work of art.
The bar itself is anchored in rich Rosso Levanto stone, featuring deep burgundy tones, white veining, and bamboo-inspired relief details. Custom lighting, hand-painted gold mesh, and a bespoke wine tower further enhance the intimate yet luxurious atmosphere—making Jo’s Bar a destination in its own right within The Setai’s grand lobby.
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
Refined Bites from Jaya and Japón
Jo’s Bar offers a thoughtfully curated bites menu featuring signature dishes from both Jaya and Japón, designed for elegant, shareable dining.
Guests can enjoy Japón favorites such as Tuna Crispy Rice, Hamachi Serrano, Miso Black Cod Lettuce Cups, and Wagyu Sliders, alongside Jaya highlights including Tuna Tacos, Har Gau shrimp dumplings, Thai Chicken, Octopus with aji amarillo, and Duck Spring Rolls. For an elevated indulgence, Caspian Sea Osetra caviar is available in both Classic and Golden selections.
The menu is served nightly from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., perfectly complementing the bar’s sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance.
Photo Credit: Aura Groupe
Signature Cocktails and Exclusive Champagne Offerings
Jo’s Bar showcases The Setai’s acclaimed cocktail program, featuring refined classics like the Gold Martini, Chili Passion Martini, and Espresso Martini, alongside new creations such as Golden Accord with The Macallan 12 and Celestial Bloom with Louis Roederer Collection 245 Champagne.
As the exclusive Miami Beach location offering Maison Louis Roederer, Jo’s Bar provides a rare opportunity to experience the House’s legendary cuvées, celebrated for their balance, elegance, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Design Excellence, Hospitality, and Global Recognition
At the heart of Jo’s Bar is a design philosophy that honors The Setai’s Art Deco roots while introducing a renewed sense of intimacy and modern energy. According to Sean Saladino, Chief Designer at Saladino Design Studios:
“Designing the Lobby Bar meant creating a space that feels both rooted in The Setai’s Art Deco legacy and alive with modern, intimate energy. Each material was chosen to evoke warmth and quiet drama, from the sculptural resin forms of the back bar to the carved stone and brass details. The result is a bar that doesn’t simply sit within the lobby — it becomes a glowing centerpiece that celebrates the hotel’s timeless elegance.”
This thoughtful integration of architecture, materiality, and atmosphere is emblematic of The Setai, Miami Beach’s enduring commitment to excellence. The property remains the only hotel on Miami Beach to hold a Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond, and two Michelin Keys, while also earning consecutive recognition from Condé Nast Traveler and Michelin for its exceptional hospitality and design.
With the debut of Jo’s Bar, The Setai once again reinforces its position among the world’s most distinguished luxury destinations — where design, dining, and hospitality converge in perfect harmony.
World-Famous Pizzeria Martucci Miami Opens Tomorrow in Wynwood
Photo Credit: Martucci Miami
Miami’s dining scene is about to reach a new milestone. Martucci Miami, the U.S. debut of legendary Italian pizzaiolo Francesco Martucci, officially opens tomorrow, January 16, in the heart of Wynwood—bringing what many consider the world’s best pizza to South Florida for the first time.
This opening marks a major moment not just for Wynwood, but for Miami’s evolution into a globally recognized culinary capital.
From Italy to Miami: A Global Pizza Icon Arrives
Francesco Martucci is widely regarded as one of the most influential pizza chefs in the world. His original restaurant in Caserta, Italy, has been repeatedly ranked among the best pizzerias on the planet, redefining pizza as a fine-dining craft rooted in fermentation science, precision technique, and obsessive ingredient sourcing.
Now, that same philosophy is landing in Miami—without dilution.
According to Food & Wine, Martucci Miami represents a true extension of Martucci’s culinary vision, not a franchised concept. The Wynwood location will showcase the same uncompromising standards that earned Martucci international acclaim, adapted thoughtfully for Miami’s dining culture.
A Liberty Entertainment Group Production in the Heart of Wynwood
Martucci Miami is brought to life by Liberty Entertainment Group, known for elevating hospitality experiences through design, service, and atmosphere.
Designed by Liberty’s VP & Creative Director, the space blends modern Neapolitan influences with Wynwood’s industrial character—creating an immersive environment that feels refined yet energetic, day into night. The result is a restaurant that aligns perfectly with Wynwood’s transformation into one of Miami’s most desirable live-work-play neighborhoods.
Pizza as Fine Dining: What to Expect
Martucci Miami isn’t a traditional pizzeria—it’s a culinary experience.
Guests can choose between:
An à la carte menu highlighting signature pizzas and seasonal creations
An intimate, multi-course pizza tasting menu with curated wine pairings
Each dish is approached with Michelin-level attention to detail, where dough fermentation, texture, and flavor balance are treated as a serious culinary discipline.
This is pizza pushed to its highest expression.
National Recognition: Robb Report’s Only Miami Pick
Adding to the buzz, Robb Report recently named Martucci Miami one of the 13 most exciting restaurant openings in America for the year—the only restaurant in Miami to earn a spot on the prestigious list.
That distinction places Martucci Miami alongside top culinary openings in New York, Los Angeles, and other major food cities, reinforcing Miami’s growing influence on the national dining stage.
Reservations Now Open
Martucci Miami officially opens tomorrow, January 16, and reservations are already available via OpenTable. Given the international reputation and early national acclaim, securing a table early is strongly recommended.
Why This Matters for Miami Real Estate & Lifestyle
Restaurants like Martucci Miami are more than dining destinations—they’re cultural signals. High-profile culinary openings continue to accelerate Wynwood’s evolution into a world-class neighborhood, driving demand for nearby residential, mixed-use, and investment properties.
When globally recognized chefs choose Wynwood for their U.S. debut, it speaks volumes about where Miami is headed next.
Megan Thee Stallion Opens First-Ever Popeyes Restaurant in Miami Beach
Megan Thee Stallion has officially opened her first-ever Popeyes restaurant in Miami Beach, marking a major milestone in her expansion from brand collaborator to franchise owner.
The new location is situated at 1427 Washington Avenue, placing it in the heart of South Beach’s high-traffic retail and tourism corridor.
From Brand Partner to Franchise Owner
Megan Thee Stallion’s journey with Popeyes began in 2021 through a high-profile collaboration that introduced her signature Hottie Sauce to the brand’s menu nationwide. That partnership eventually evolved into franchise ownership, culminating in the opening of her first restaurant in Miami Beach.
According to the press release, this move represents a significant step in her long-term business strategy and highlights the growing role of celebrity entrepreneurs within the quick-service restaurant industry.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in South Beach
The Miami Beach Popeyes officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, where Megan Thee Stallion was on site to celebrate the occasion alongside her restaurant team. The event marked the first day of operations for the location and symbolized her transition from promotional partner to hands-on business owner.
The restaurant’s opening drew attention from fans, locals, and visitors alike, reinforcing South Beach’s reputation as a launchpad for high-visibility retail and dining concepts.
Prime Location at 1427 Washington Avenue
Located at 1427 Washington Avenue, the new Popeyes benefits from strong foot traffic, proximity to hotels, nightlife, and residential buildings, and year-round tourism demand. Washington Avenue remains one of Miami Beach’s most active commercial corridors, making it a strategic choice for a first franchise location.
A Growing Trend of Celebrity Franchise Ownership
Megan Thee Stallion’s Miami Beach opening reflects a broader trend of celebrities moving beyond endorsements into direct ownership of national restaurant brands. For Popeyes, the franchise underscores its continued expansion in South Florida and its appeal to high-profile entrepreneurs seeking long-term equity rather than short-term sponsorships.
Looking Ahead
While this Miami Beach restaurant marks Megan Thee Stallion’s first Popeyes franchise, the press release notes that additional locations may follow. For now, the Washington Avenue opening stands as a notable addition to Miami Beach’s dining scene and a clear signal of her growing presence in the business world.
A New Record-Setting Tower Proposed for Sunny Isles Beach
A transformative new luxury condo tower is moving forward in Sunny Isles Beach, with plans unveiled for what would become the tallest skyscraper ever built in the city. The project is proposed for 19051 Collins Avenue and is being developed by a joint venture between Related Group, Dezer Development, and BH Group.
Recently released renderings show a sleek, ultra-tall residential tower designed to redefine the Sunny Isles skyline and set a new benchmark for oceanfront luxury development in South Florida.
Project Size, Height, and Scale
According to submitted plans, the proposed tower would rise approximately 820 feet above ground (roughly 828 feet above sea level) and span 62 stories, making it not only the tallest building in Sunny Isles Beach, but one of the tallest residential towers along the Atlantic coastline.
The building is planned to include 145 luxury condominium residences, a relatively low unit count given the tower’s height—suggesting large floor plans and a highly exclusive residential experience.
Estimated Cost and Development Timeline
The project carries an estimated construction cost of approximately $294 million, reflecting both its scale and its premium oceanfront location.
Developers have outlined a long-term timeline that includes:
Up to five years for approvals and permitting
An additional five years for construction
If approvals proceed as expected, the tower is currently projected to be completed around 2031.
Prime Oceanfront Site on Collins Avenue
The development site was assembled through the acquisition of the former Miami Beach Club property for approximately $131.8 million, underscoring the significance of the location. Positioned directly on Collins Avenue, the tower would offer unobstructed ocean views and immediate access to the heart of Sunny Isles Beach.
What This Means for Sunny Isles Beach
If approved and built as planned, this tower would represent a major milestone for Sunny Isles Beach—both symbolically and architecturally. The project reflects the continued demand for ultra-luxury, high-rise living and signals confidence from some of South Florida’s most active and well-capitalized developers.
As the approval process moves forward, this proposed skyscraper is poised to become one of the most closely watched developments in the Sunny Isles Beach real estate market.
Trump and Rubio to Attend College Football National Championship in Miami
Miami will be at the center of the national spotlight this Monday as the 2026 NCAA College Football National Championship kicks off at Hard Rock Stadium—and it won’t just be football fans watching.
According to Axios, Donald Trump and Marco Rubio are both planning to attend the title game, adding political intrigue to what is already one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
Miami vs. Indiana: A Championship With National Attention
The matchup between Miami and Indiana has captured national attention, bringing college football’s biggest stage to South Florida. With millions expected to tune in, the championship reinforces Miami’s growing role as a host city for major global events—sports, entertainment, and beyond.
Second Most Expensive Event Ever at Hard Rock Stadium
This game isn’t just historic on the field—it’s historic at the box office.
The January 2026 National Championship is now the second most expensive event ever held at Hard Rock Stadium, based on average ticket prices of approximately $4,330. The only event to surpass it was Super Bowl LIV, which averaged around $6,370 per ticket.
The championship has also surpassed other massive events hosted at the stadium, including Taylor Swift’s 2024 tour stop—making it the most expensive college football game ever recorded.
Who Are Trump and Rubio Rooting For?
Axios also highlighted an interesting subplot: who each political figure is supporting.
Marco Rubio, a longtime Florida political figure, is expected to be firmly behind the Miami Hurricanes.
President Trump has not publicly declared a favorite, but has recently praised Indiana’s quarterback, adding another layer of intrigue heading into the game.
A Big Moment for Miami on the National Stage
With record-setting ticket prices, political heavyweights in attendance, and a national championship on the line, Monday’s game is shaping up to be one of the most high-profile events Miami has hosted in years.
For South Florida, it’s another reminder that Miami continues to be a premier destination for world-class sports, entertainment, and global attention.
Court Orders Developer to Fully Restore Biscayne 21 After Failed Termination Attempt
Developer’s Termination Plan Ruled Invalid
In a significant win for Biscayne 21 condominium owners, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court in Miami-Dade has declared the developer’s attempt to terminate the condominium invalid. The court vacated prior orders that had favored the developer, effectively halting any plans to terminate and redevelop the property. Biscayne 21 is located in Edgewater, a waterfront Miami neighborhood that has seen increasing redevelopment pressure in recent years.
Rather than simply blocking the termination, the court went a step further and imposed affirmative obligations on the developer.
The highlight of the ruling is that the developer is now legally required to restore the Biscayne 21 condominium and all affected units to their original condition as of May 2023. This includes reinstating utilities, services, and common area maintenance at the developer’s expense, with no additional costs to the unit owners.
Implications for Unit Owners
For the condominium’s residents, this decision means they retain ownership of their units and can expect the building to be brought back to a habitable and fully functional state. The court has ensured ongoing oversight, requiring regular status reports to guarantee compliance.
Mannarino to Open First U.S. Location at The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami
A celebrated name in Italy’s food scene is officially coming to Miami. Mannarino, the modern Italian butcher shop and kitchen founded in Milan, will debut its first U.S. location at The Standard Residences, Midtown Miami, further elevating Midtown’s rapidly evolving culinary and lifestyle landscape.
The announcement comes as the final retail lease at the project is secured, marking 100% retail lease-up for the development.
A Modern Take on the Italian Butcher Shop
Founded in Milan and now spanning 23 locations across Italy, Mannarino reimagines the traditional neighborhood butcher shop with a highly interactive, community-driven approach. Guests begin at the counter, guided by skilled butchers who help select premium cuts—whether for home cooking or to be grilled and served on-site.
The concept emphasizes quality and craftsmanship, featuring lighter cuts, carpaccio, tartare, and thoughtfully sourced meats that reflect Southern Italian culinary traditions.
“In Italy, we don’t just eat—we gather around the table,” said Gianmarco Venuto, Founder of Mannarino. “Mannarino is a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and community.”
What to Expect at the Miami Location
The Mannarino at The Standard Residences will blend retail butchery, Italian market, and dining into a single experience. Signature offerings are expected to include:
The Bombette – Mannarino’s celebrated rolled meat specialty
Grilled chicken skewers
Carpaccio and Italian tartare prepared with Piedmontese Fassona beef from the brand’s own farms
Seasonal sides such as grilled vegetables and roasted potatoes
Guests will be able to dine in or take premium cuts home, with expert guidance from the butcher—staying true to the brand’s omnichannel, education-forward model.
Design Rooted in Warmth and Tradition
The space will showcase Mannarino’s signature aesthetic: a warm, modern Italian market inspired by traditional butcher shops. Expect natural materials, curated design details, a mix of individual and family-style seating, and an inviting neighborhood atmosphere designed to encourage conversation and connection.
The opening is currently slated for Fall 2026.
A Milestone for Midtown Miami
The arrival of Mannarino aligns seamlessly with the vision behind The Standard Residences, a project developed by Rosso Development, Standard International, and Midtown Development.
“Mannarino brings something genuinely different to the neighborhood,” said Carlos Rosso, Founder and CEO of Rosso Development. “Their concept will meaningfully elevate the Midtown experience.”
With the residences now 96% sold, the leasing of Mannarino as the final retail tenant underscores strong demand for curated, experience-driven retail in Midtown Miami.
Why This Matters
For Midtown Miami, Mannarino’s U.S. debut represents more than just another restaurant opening—it signals continued momentum for the neighborhood as a destination where culture, design, food, and lifestyle intersect. For future residents and visitors alike, it adds a distinctly European, community-oriented culinary experience rarely found in South Florida.
Gianluca Vacchi’s GV Development Group Sues Partner Michael Stern for Fraud
A Legal Battle with Major Implications
In a surprising turn of events, Gianluca Vacchi’s associated company, GV NBV LLC, has filed a lawsuit against his partner Michael Stern and his associated entities. The lawsuit (click to view the full PDF) was filed by GV NBV LLC, naming Michael Stern, 6345 JV LLC, and 6345 Manager LLC as defendants. Although unrelated, this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for one of Miami’s most high-profile developments — 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana.
The Core of the Lawsuit
The complaint, filed on December 17, 2025, alleges that Michael Stern and his related entities engaged in fraudulent activities tied to a real estate development at 6345 Collins Avenue, known as the Casablanca Project. In the lawsuit, GV NBV LLC is seeking damages in excess of $750,000, underscoring the significant financial stakes involved. According to the filing, Stern allegedly misrepresented the value and safety of the investment, provided false or misleading documents, and concealed material facts from the plaintiff. In essence, the lawsuit claims these actions were part of a deliberate scheme to defraud GV NBV LLC.
A History of Allegations Against Michael Stern
Notably, this is not the first time Stern has faced legal troubles. The complaint references a series of other lawsuits where Stern has been accused of similar fraudulent conduct in other real estate projects. These past cases paint a broader picture of ongoing legal challenges for Stern, adding weight to the current allegations.
The JDSPulse Connection
It’s worth noting that a website known as JDSPulse has been dedicated to exposing alleged misconduct by Michael Stern. While we are not affiliated with this platform and cannot verify all of its claims, it does exist as an independent source focused on Stern’s business practices. This lawsuit adds a new chapter to that ongoing narrative.
Implications for 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana
Perhaps the most pressing question is how this legal battle will impact the 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana project. Gianluca Vacchi and Michael Stern are co-developers of this high-profile Miami development. With their partnership now in question, one must wonder how this lawsuit will affect the project’s future and their working relationship. Will this lead to delays or changes in the development? Only time will tell. Notably, the first hearing in this case is set for March 19, 2026 at 8:15 AM, marking the next major step in this unfolding story.
Conclusion: A Story to Watch
As this case unfolds, it will be important to watch how it impacts both the individuals involved and the broader Miami real estate landscape. For now, this lawsuit marks a significant rift between two major players and raises many questions about what comes next.
Miami Rail Expansion Hit by Steep Cost Increase and Funding Uncertainty
Plans to build a much-anticipated heavy rail line from Downtown Miami to Hard Rock Stadium have encountered a major setback as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) now estimates the project will cost approximately $4.2 billion — nearly double earlier projections. This dramatic increase threatens the viability of the project by undermining its competitiveness for critical federal support and raising fresh questions about the timeline and funding strategy for expanding mass transit in Miami-Dade County.
Rising Costs Put Federal Funding at Risk
The FDOT’s recent figure marks a steep escalation from earlier estimates that placed the project’s price tag well below $2.5 billion. This jump mainly reflects added infrastructure components — including a planned light maintenance facility — and refinements to the rail design, driving up overall capital costs.
One of the most significant consequences of the higher expense is its impact on the project’s cost-effectiveness rating with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The FTA, which provides a large portion of financing for major transit projects, scores proposals based on cost per passenger trip; rail options with lower costs are far more likely to secure funding than those with higher per-trip expenses. At an estimated $54.47 per passenger trip, the North Corridor’s numbers may fall well outside the competitive range needed to attract federal dollars.
Timeline and Project Scope in Flux
Originally conceived as part of Miami-Dade’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program, the heavy rail extension along NW 27th Avenue would connect downtown with key northern destinations and major activity centers, including Hard Rock Stadium. FDOT and regional planners envisioned an elevated rail line with multiple stations and park-and-ride facilities.
However, with the latest cost estimates, the project’s timeline has grown uncertain. Officials no longer provide a firm start or completion date, and discussions are underway about staging construction in phases — building northward from downtown incrementally rather than as one large, single project — in hopes of improving its financial feasibility.
Why Costs Are Increasing
Several factors have contributed to the ballooning price tag:
Expanded scope: Additions like the maintenance facility and station enhancements contribute directly to higher capital costs.
Long planning horizon: The North Corridor has been in the planning phase for years, with design, environmental analysis, and public input adding complexity and cost. The FDOT’s project development and environment (PD&E) study continues to refine how best to deploy heavy rail in the corridor.
Inflation and construction markets: Like many infrastructure projects nationwide, recent inflation in labor, materials, and construction services plays a role in driving up estimates.
What This Means for Miami’s Transit Future
The North Corridor project remains a priority for regional mobility planners because it promises to expand access to rapid transit for underserved communities and reduce traffic congestion along a heavily traveled corridor. But at its current projected cost, securing competitive federal funding — essential for moving forward — will be challenging without adjustments.
Local leaders and transportation planners will need to explore cost-reduction strategies and potentially rethink how to phase the work to make the project more financially realistic while still delivering meaningful mobility benefits to residents and visitors.
