South Beach has officially added a new gem to its culinary crown. Big Hug Hospitality, the Toronto-based team behind some of Canada’s most celebrated dining establishments, has opened MIMI Chinese, marking their first international venture. Renowned for its thoughtful exploration of regional Chinese cuisine, MIMI Chinese has already made waves in Toronto’s dining scene, earning Michelin recognition and a devoted following. Now, the Miami Beach location brings the same innovative and hospitality-driven experience to one of the country’s most vibrant culinary cities.
MIMI Chinese stands out for its modern approach to traditional regional Chinese cuisine. With a menu inspired by the culinary traditions of Guangdong, Sichuan, Hong Kong, and Hunan, the restaurant highlights the diversity and depth of one of the world’s oldest cuisines. Signature dishes like the Hunan Chili Sea Bass, Hidden Crispy Chicken, and Four Foot Belt Noodles showcase both traditional techniques and contemporary flair. Larger sharing plates encourage communal dining, a hallmark of Chinese culinary culture.
Culinary Director David Schwartz, a 2023 Michelin Guide Toronto Young Chef Award recipient, emphasizes MIMI Chinese’s dedication to honoring the roots of regional Chinese cuisine while adding a creative twist. “We’re thrilled to introduce MIMI Chinese to Miami Beach, a city that shares our passion for food, culture, and celebration,” Schwartz said. “Our approach is rooted in quality and tradition—a celebration of heritage with a fresh perspective.”
MIMI Chinese’s Miami Beach location offers more than just a meal; it delivers an immersive dining experience. The restaurant’s interior is designed to create an intimate and theatrical atmosphere. Dim lighting, luxurious red accents, and glossy banquettes set the stage for an evening that engages all the senses. Servers, dressed in bowties, deliver attentive service, while the aroma of Sichuan peppercorns toasting in woks fills the air. Designed without windows, the space encourages guests to escape into a world of flavor, sight, and sound.
Executive Chef Braden Chong highlights the restaurant’s commitment to top-quality ingredients and innovative presentation. “The quality of our food and ingredients is central to everything we do,” Chong said. “We’re excited to bring the artistry and vibrant energy of MIMI Chinese to Miami Beach, blending new and nostalgic flavors that honor tradition and innovation.”
The dining experience is elevated by a thoughtfully curated beverage program. Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of wines, sakes, baijiu, and signature cocktails designed to pair seamlessly with the bold and diverse flavors of the menu. Highlights include barrel-aged sakes and magnum-sized bottles perfect for sharing, ensuring the communal spirit extends to the drink menu.
Big Hug Hospitality, co-founded by David Schwartz and Brandon Marek, is the creative force behind MIMI Chinese. Known for cultivating a “Culture of Kindness,” Big Hug places employee well-being and community at the heart of their operations. With successful concepts like MIMI Chinese, Sunnys Chinese, and Linny’s in Toronto, the group has established itself as a leader in hospitality. The Miami Beach expansion marks an exciting new chapter for the team.
Instrumental in bringing MIMI Chinese to Miami is Harlo Entertainment, led by Managing Partner Brandon Marek. Harlo Entertainment specializes in creating standout hospitality experiences across North America, and their collaboration with Big Hug Hospitality promises to make MIMI Chinese a must-visit destination in South Beach.
MIMI Chinese is located at 1575 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL. With its thoughtfully designed space and exceptional menu, the restaurant is poised to become a standout addition to the local dining scene. Whether you’re a foodie seeking bold flavors or someone looking to indulge in an unforgettable dining experience, MIMI Chinese offers something truly special for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience this new culinary masterpiece in the heart of South Beach.
South Beach to Welcome a Colorful New Pedestrian Bridge by 2026
Excitement is building in South Beach as construction officially begins on a vibrant new pedestrian bridge designed to connect the South of Fifth baywalk with a recently completed park. The developer mobilized yesterday to commence work on this artistic infrastructure project, which promises to enhance the area’s aesthetic and pedestrian accessibility.
The bridge, titled Walking In, Along and Under the Colors, is the vision of renowned French artist Daniel Buren. Known for his use of bold, colorful designs, Buren’s work is expected to transform the entrance to South Beach into an engaging and visually striking landmark.
The pedestrian bridge and park are integral to the approval process for the nearby Five Park tower, which opened in November as the tallest building in Miami Beach. The park and bridge will serve as community-enhancing amenities, providing a seamless connection for pedestrians and showcasing the developer’s commitment to urban improvement.
Construction Timeline and Phases
Construction is set to unfold in several stages:
Temporary Fencing Installation: The first phase involves setting up temporary construction fencing to secure the site.
Utility Relocation: Crews will relocate underground utilities along Fifth Street to prepare for the next steps.
Foundation Excavation: In a few months, excavation will begin for the bridge pedestals on both the north and south sides of the causeway.
The anticipated timeline projects a completion date in the summer or fall of 2026, bringing a new landmark to life within just a few years.
Once completed, Walking In, Along and Under the Colors will not only enhance pedestrian access but also serve as a symbol of South Beach’s innovative and artistic spirit. As construction progresses, residents and visitors alike can look forward to an exciting addition to the city’s iconic landscape.
Rosewood Hotel and Residences Reveals $150 Million Penthouse in South Beach
Rosewood Residences, a 17-story luxury condo tower in the heart of Miami’s South Beach, designed by renowned architect Peter Marino. This project includes a record-setting penthouse, poised to be Miami Beach’s most valuable property, with a valuation exceeding $150 million. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this asset represents a rare opportunity in one of the world’s most desirable real estate markets.
The development, a fusion of high-end hotel, restaurant, and residential spaces, spans three acres on 18th Street and Collins Avenue, incorporating the historic Raleigh Hotel. Managed by the prestigious Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, this project is designed to redefine luxury living, offering unparalleled amenities and exclusive experiences.
At $10 million for a three-bedroom residence, with larger and more exclusive units available, the condominium promises substantial returns. The project’s pricing strategy aligns with luxury real estate trends in major cities like New York. The unique location and high-end offerings of this development present a compelling value proposition for discerning investors.
In 2019, developer Michael Shvo, in partnership with Deutsche Finance Group, acquired and envisioned a transformative project for the iconic Raleigh Hotel and adjacent properties. Shvo’s vision, endorsed by Miami Beach’s mayor, combines historic preservation with modern luxury, creating a unique investment proposition.
Peter Marino’s design emphasizes simplicity, elegance, and unobstructed ocean views, offering a refreshing contrast to typical Miami architecture. The building’s design is a testament to innovation, with units featuring high ceilings and premium materials, curated for an elite clientele.
Managed by Rosewood, the Residences promise a lifestyle of unrivaled luxury. Residents will enjoy hotel-style services, including the US outpost of the famed Milanese restaurant Langosteria. This holistic approach to luxury living makes the Rosewood Residences a standout investment in Miami’s property market.
Michael Shvo’s commitment to creating an unmatched product in Florida’s luxury real estate landscape is evident.
New Mediterranean Restaurant to Open at Ritz Carlton South Beach
José Andrés, a chef and the creator of World Central Kitchen, is coming back to Miami Beach; his restaurant group intends to open a new eatery at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, Zaytinaya.
The Bazaar by José Andrés, the only restaurant Andrés owned in Miami Beach, closed earlier this year at the SLS South Beach hotel. Elcielo, the eatery owned by Colombian chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, has taken its spot. In 2022, Elcielo in Brickell was awarded a Michelin star. The Ritz Carlton’s old Fuego y Mar property will house Zaytinya’s third restaurant; the previous two locations debuted in Washington, D.C., in 2002, and New York, in 2022.
All food and beverage operations for the opulent hotel, a Forbes Four-Star establishment at 1 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, including the restaurants, lobby bar, Ritz Club lounge, and in-room dining, will be taken over by The José Andrés Group. Fuego y Mar Mediterranean restaurant’s present location will be taken up by the new Zaytinya restaurant.
The name is Turkish for “olive oil,” which is appropriate: Lebanese, Greek, and Turkish cuisines are reflected in the menu. The firm hopes to launch Zaytinya by the end of 2023 but hasn’t provided any information regarding the menu or a timeline for Fuego y Mar’s closure.
This week, the organization will begin hiring employees at the restaurant. In the United States, the Bahamas, and the United Arab Emirates, the José Andrés Group has more than 30 eateries.
South Beach Wine and Food Festival is Back and Will be Bigger Than Ever
Thousands of people will visit Miami Beach from February 23 to 26 to eat, drink, and celebrate the South Beach Wine and Food Festival’s 22nd anniversary. All proceeds from the event will go to the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. More than $34 million has already been raised, ensuring the hospitality sector’s future through educating the next generation.
The festival is well-known for its signature activities like the Grand Tasting Village, the Burger Bash hosted this year by Emeril Lagasse, and a gala tribute dinner with this year’s honorees, chef Alex Guarnaschelli and Pernod Ricard’s Alexandre Ricard, with Bobby Flay serving as master of ceremonies. However, every year also brings new activities and a few surprises.
According to Lee Brian Schrager, the secret to success is that blend of the old and new. According to the founder of SOBEWFF, he’s constantly searching for fresh brands and activations.
A Sunday afternoon tea dance and drag show with a special appearance by disco queen Thelma Houston are new attractions this year. Schrager is also looking forward to Sunday afternoon’s Overtown EatUp, which will be hosted by Marcus Samuelsson. The celebration, which draws inspiration from Harlem EatUp, will celebrate Overtown’s vibrant culture. The participating eateries and musical acts will be chosen by Samuelsson. Also, Overtown EatUp revenue will be used to finance scholarships for Overtown students enrolling in FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.
The festival will, according to the founder of SOBEWFF, this year more than ever showcase diversity in the hospitality sector with activities like a cookout with JJ Johnson and Dwyane Wade and a Sunday brunch with James Beard Award winner Mashama Bailey. For one delectable day, Bailey will bring the Grey, a restaurant she owns in Savannah, to Miami Beach.
The SOBEWFF, according to Schrager, is primarily intended for people to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves. And it appears that the formula works.
The 2023 South Beach Wine and Food Festival will take place from Thursday, February 23, to Sunday, February 26. The price of tickets are $35 with pre-sale tickets available for Capital One Cardholders. For more information on the schedule of events, click here.
Rooftop Cinema Club is Coming to South Beach
Designed by Emily Woodall
Set to debut this spring will be the first rooftop movie theater in Miami, offering a new experience to the film business. Rooftop Cinema Club is located at 1212 Lincoln Road in the center of Miami Beach, offering spectacular views not only on the big scene but of the city from every angle.
This isn’t the only rooftop movie theater of its kind! Rooftop Cinema Club has locations in New York, San Diego, Houston, Los Angeles, and London. Rooftop Cinema Club South Beach will debut with an 18-and-up age limit, with the possibility of more family-oriented movies in the future.
Guests will be able to view some of their favorite films from golden hour till dark, with several screenings taking place every day. The theater will screen a mix of genres, including old-school classics, cult films, and new releases. The programming schedule includes films such as Mean Girls, Dirty Dancing, 10 Things I Hate About You, and Pulp Fiction.
Guests will be able to enjoy all of the theater’s iconic movie snacks as well as a customized food and beverage menu
As far as seating, you will have the ability to choose between a single lounge seat or an Adirondack chair for the movie. A massive LED screen gives the film’s crispest video, combined with wireless headphones for great audio and each guest’s preferred volume level.
According to Rooftop Cinema Club’s website, they are much more than just a movie theater. The brand has evolved to include a social and outdoor component that will leave you with an unbelievable experience. You will not want to go back to the standard movie theater!
Another Fisher Island Condo Sold at $21 Million
After spending 5.5 years on significant renovations and imported furniture, Igor Olegovich Nesterenko, a businessman in the meatpacking industry from Moscow, sold his Fisher Island property for $21 million.
The unit located at the Palazzo Del Mare unit 7153, features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, a terrace, a playroom, and a conference room spanning over 7,025 square feet. It also has a private 2-car garage on the parking level of the building and a private cabana near the pool.
Nesterenko spent the 5.5 years refurbishing the condo because Fisher Island only allows for roughly half of a year’s time for construction due to noise restrictions.
Furthermore, much of the furniture was purchased from abroad and was rather large and proved difficult to ship overseas. The bathtub in the master bedroom was fashioned from a solid block of Greek White Thassos marble and was carried into the apartment using a crane. The majority of the furniture was also brought by crane since it was too large for the elevator.
The 7,025-square-foot Unit 7153 located at Palazzo Del Mare was sold to Fana Fisher Palazzo 7153 LLC, managed by a trust in Bellevue, Washington purchased the condo for $21 million equals $2,989 price per square foot.
The trust is under the umbrella of the Fana Group of Cos., a real estate corporation located in Bellevue led by Chairman and CEO Firoz Lalji.
The apartment was designed by Augusto Busnelli of Milan, according to Flikshteyn. The previous owner spent around $10 million on upgrades. The property was last sold in 2011 for $8.3 million.
The Palazzo Del Mare was built in 2007 and with an expansive amenity package including a 9-hole golf course, 18 tennis courts, a marina and yacht center, a gourmet market, 8 restaurants, and Spa Internazionale. A Fisher Island Day School and a mile and a half of pristine beaches.
Fisher Island, America’s wealthiest zip code, is a 216-acre barrier island located across Government Cut from Miami Beach. Fisher Island condominiums are in a class of their own when it comes to ultra-exclusive living in South Florida.
The island, which can only be reached by ferry, boat, helicopter, or seaplane, provides unrivaled protection. All visitors to the island must first be checked by security at the Fisher Island port.
The Regent Cocktail Club Reopens After 2 Years
It has been a rough couple of years for businesses due to COVID and the rising costs of goods/services. Within the past 2 years, a lot of businesses had to close, including one of South Beach’s favorite spots, The Regent. Recently, the Havana-inspired bar and lounge reopened with a new cocktail menu that will quench your thirsts.
Located inside the Gale South Beach, the bar and lounge originally opened in 2012. The bar was named in the Top Ten Hotel Bars in the World in 2017. In March 2020, The Regent closed its doors shortly after a renovation in 2019.
Before it was The Regent, it was called the Rec Room and was more of a night club themed spaced. Due to the renovation, the bar is now 3x the size of the once nightclub. The bar can also hold up to 200 guests.
Although The Regent is located in the Gale South Beach, you can still enter through a separate door behind the hostess stand of the Dolce restaurant. Once you make your way through the stairwell illuminated by neon signs, you will enter the bar area with a 10+ seat bar, comfy chairs, and leather banquettes.
The bar pays homage to classic 1920’s speakeasy with low lighting, leather fixtures, and privacy. In the early hours, hear low levels of jazz but the bass will rise later once the DJ starts spinning.
While you’re there, grab a Champiña or Peach One from the signature menu. If you get hungry, there is a limited food menu with cheese plates, chicken empanadas, and chips and guacamole.
The Regent is open Thursday through Saturday from 7 pm to 2 am.
The South Beach Jazz Festival is Back for Another Year
The South Beach Jazz Festival is back for another year and we can’t be more excited! Scheduled for this weekend you can find some of the top jazz performers at venues throughout Miami Beach.
The show is set for January 7-9, 2022, and was designed to showcase the musical abilities of people with disabilities. According to the new President of Power Access, the non-profit organization that hosts the festival, “It is in our mission to provide opportunities for musicians with disabilities and so at least one musician in each group does have a disability,” states R. David New.
New himself became blind, deaf, and partially paralyzed due to a rare disease but later regained his ability to hear and walk. With his personal experiences, this festival is very close to him and he is happy to be able to continue the tradition for 2022.
The pre-festival show will take place at the Faena Theater on Thursday, Jan. 6th. The performers will include pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and singer Aymee Nuviola. Their recent 2020 album was nominated for a Grammy Award in the “Best Latin Jazz” category. The album is a tribute to their mothers as well as their home, Havana.
The opening act on Friday, January 7th is Grammy Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama. Also performing is New Orleans saxophonist Donald Harrison and drummer Art Blakey’s famed Jazz Messengers. Also in attendance will be the University of Miami Jazz Quintet with Kaleen Barton.
The opening pre-festival and the Friday shows will be a ticketed event while the other shows are free.
As for COVID protocols, all performances are expected to be outside except the pre-festival show. According to R. David New, “We are taking every precaution possible to make our event safe and enjoyable for the entire community.” Social distancing and masks will be encouraged. To see a full list of performers as well as their locations, click here.
Luxury Travel Magazine Names Miami Beach One of the Best Beaches in the U.S.
According to Condé Nast Traveler, a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, dubbed Miami Beach as one of the best beaches in the United States. Miami Beach stands next to three other beaches in Florida including; Grayton Beach State Park, Dunedin, and Sanibel Island.
The magazine stated, “The siren song of Miami’s South Beach is undeniable…beautiful people, flashy cars, Art Deco architecture: It’s all here.” Condé Nast Traveler highlights that Miami Beach is one of the popular and liveliest areas for tourists in Miami.
The magazine also states that the most touristy areas run parallel to Ocean Drive and locals tend to hang around the South of Fifth neighborhood. “But we say those famous white sands are worth bumping elbows with a few fellows,” according to Condé Nast Traveler.
About Miami Beach
It is no debate that Miami Beach does offer some of the most beautiful properties and beaches in the world. Situated on a barrier island, the coastal city is between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
The Bass Museum of Art and the New World Symphony are both located in Miami Beach. Other options to visit include a cultural center called the Faena Forum. This cultural center hosts an array of events including; lectures, performances, and large-scale events. Miami Beach is also home to the largest art fair along the east coast.
Miami Beach also has some of the most luxurious condo developments in Miami. Faena House is a 47-unit ultra-luxury condominium tower located at 2901 Collins Avenue. The condos at Faena House are some of the most prized pieces of real estate in South Florida.
Ritz-Carlton Residences Miami Beach located at 4701 N. Merdian Avenue features 15 stand-alone villas comprised of 8 waterfront villas with private boat docks and 7 landside villas surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping. Each of the villas has its own private pool and an air-conditioned two-car garage. Ritz-Carlton Residences features 125 total units.
The lifestyle of Miami Beach is like no other. With its fabulous art and cultural options, luxury condominium buildings, and its vibrant nightlife, there are so many options for every visitor as well as a potential buyer.
