The Reserve Cup Returns to Miami: Padel’s Premier Event Expands in 2025

The highly anticipated Reserve Cup, a flagship event by Reserve Padel, is set to return to Miami from January 23–25, 2025. Building on the success of its inaugural tournament in 2024, the event will launch the newly expanded Reserve Cup Series, featuring three weeks of elite padel competition across three major cities. This evolution cements the series as a premier showcase of the world’s top padel players, competing for record-breaking prize money exceeding $1.7 million.

Led by Reserve Padel Founder and CEO Wayne Boich, alongside Honorary Chairman and Co-Captain Jimmy Butler, the Reserve Cup has gained acclaim for its intense matches, star-studded lineups, and exclusive entertainment experiences. For 2025, the expanded series aims to bring its unique fusion of sport and luxury to an even broader audience, beginning at Reserve Miami Seaplane.

“Part of our goal at Reserve has always been to showcase padel at the highest level,” said Wayne Boich. “Following the success of the inaugural event in 2024—and the overwhelming excitement from the players—we knew we had to take it further.”

A Star-Studded Experience

The Reserve Cup Miami promises three days of exhilarating matches featuring two elite teams of top-ranked players led by star captains. This year’s captains are:

• Derek Jeter – 5x World Series Champion and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer.
• Andrew Schulz – Famed comedian and passionate padel enthusiast.

Beyond the action on the court, attendees can expect exclusive parties, live entertainment, and premium culinary experiences. Highlights include:

• Access to the Reserve Club, a private space with unparalleled court views and a VIP culinary experience curated by Major Food Group.
• Dining options from local favorites such as Pura Vida Miami, Jimmy Butler’s Big Face Coffee, and Spicy Hospitality’s The Joyce.

World-Class Competition

The 2025 Reserve Cup Series will feature 16 of the world’s top-ranked padel players, including:

• Arturo Coello
• Agustin Tapia
• Alejandro Galan
• Federico Chingotto

Players will compete in three distinct tournaments throughout the year, with performance-based rankings adding an exciting competitive edge.

The Reserve Cup Series represents a significant leap forward for padel, combining world-class competition with unmatched luxury and entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative event in Miami this January. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or new to the sport, the Reserve Cup promises an unforgettable experience.

Major Food Group Opens CARBONE VINO in Coconut Grove

Major Food Group (MFG), the visionary hospitality collective behind iconic establishments like Carbone, ZZ’s Club, Sadelle’s, and Contessa, has unveiled a new gem in Miami: CARBONE VINO. Located in the sophisticated Coconut Grove neighborhood, CARBONE VINO responds to overwhelming enthusiasm for the CARBONE experience beyond Miami Beach. This new addition combines the brand’s legendary culinary artistry with unique features designed to elevate the dining experience.

At CARBONE VINO, guests can savor all of CARBONE’s signature dishes along with newly introduced creations by MFG Co-Founders Chef Mario Carbone, Chef Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick. Befitting its name, CARBONE VINO boasts one of the largest wine collections in Miami. This dynamic beverage program offers diners rare and fine wines by the glass, a luxury typically reserved for full-bottle service elsewhere.

Adding to the allure is a world-class bar serving the complete menu, a feature unique to this Coconut Grove location. The bar welcomes walk-ins, making CARBONE VINO a destination for both special occasions and impromptu indulgences.

CARBONE VINO’s menu honors the rich tradition of the New York-style Italian restaurant, offering beloved staples such as the Caesar Salad alla ZZ, Spicy Rigatoni alla Vodka, and Veal Parmesan. In addition, Chef Mario Carbone debuts a range of expertly crafted new dishes exclusive to this location:

• Zucchini Fritti
• Zuppa di Mussels with lamb sausage, tomato, and basil
• Bruschetta with Ruby Red Shrimp featuring Calabrian chili and sesame
• Pumpkin Agnolotti, Tortellini Con Tartufo, and Chicken Cacciatore

Desserts take center stage with offerings like Zeppole, Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse Pie, and Pistachio Tiramisu. The standout dessert? The Cannoli Sundae, featuring homemade cannoli-flavored soft serve with classic garnishes.

Under the guidance of Corporate Wine Director John Slover, CARBONE VINO’s wine collection includes over 3,000 bottles and 600 selections across a spectrum of styles and price points. The ever-changing by-the-glass selection ensures that every visit offers something new, from aged bottles to celebrated winemaker highlights.

Designed by award-winning Bishop Design, CARBONE VINO’s interior pays homage to its New York roots while offering a moody, romantic atmosphere. The space features:

• A main dining room, a lively lounge, and a private dining area
• Art curated by renowned gallerist Vito Schnabel, including works by Rene Ricard and Julian Schnabel
• Luxurious touches such as heavy velvet drapes, gold-accented wallpaper, and custom leather banquettes

“Every element is in synergy—from the interiors to the food, the playlist, and service—creating a space that feels both current and authentic,” said Paul Bishop, Founder of Bishop Design.

The opening of CARBONE VINO caps off a landmark year for MFG, whose global portfolio now includes over 50 acclaimed establishments. Named one of the world’s most creative companies by GQ Magazine, MFG continues to redefine dining excellence.

CARBONE VINO joins MFG’s Miami ventures, including CARBONE, ZZ’s Club, Sadelle’s, Dirty French Steakhouse, and Contessa, solidifying the brand’s legacy as a powerhouse in luxury hospitality. Whether celebrating a milestone or enjoying a casual night out, CARBONE VINO promises an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Coconut Grove.

Where Art and Cuisine Collide: The Joyce and The Window at The Joyce Redefine Miami Beach Dining

The culinary and art scenes of Miami Beach converge with the launch of The Joyce and The Window at The Joyce on historic Española Way. These two unique dining concepts are the debut ventures of Spicy Hospitality Group, co-founded by visionary art collector Andre Sakhai, entrepreneur Marc Lotenberg, and celebrated Chef James Taylor.

Set to redefine Miami’s culinary landscape, these ventures blend masterful cuisine with high art in spaces designed for both locals and visitors. Under the culinary leadership of Chef James Taylor, a Michelin-trained chef renowned for his precision and creativity, The Joyce and The Window at The Joyce promise an immersive and indulgent experience.

Opened in December 2024, The Window at The Joyce brings elevated American street fare to the heart of Miami Beach. Chef James Taylor, who spent three years perfecting his burger recipe, delivers a menu that includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried fish sandwiches, wings, chopped salads, and milkshakes.

Each dish is a testament to Taylor’s commitment to flavor and quality. His burgers, cooked on a hot griddle for a juicy, well-balanced bite, stand out as a must-try. Featuring a walk-up window and cozy outdoor patio seating, The Window offers a casual yet elevated dining experience.

Set to open on January 10th, 2025, The Joyce combines the sophistication of a modern steakhouse with the allure of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. The intimate 45-seat restaurant will serve a menu curated to delight the most discerning palates. Signature dishes include Caviar & Latkes, King Crab Scampi, Local Snapper Fillet Sandwich, and an internationally-sourced selection of steaks, alongside The Window’s famed burger.

Complementing the cuisine, the cocktail program will be crafted by a master mixologist from Japan, and the wine list will feature over 100 meticulously selected labels curated by a leading sommelier.

The ambiance at The Joyce is equally captivating. Designed with a sophisticated aesthetic, the restaurant features collectible furniture, including iconic Gio Ponti dining chairs and Joe Colombo bar stools. Tucked behind dark green drapery, the space combines dim lighting, custom walnut millwork, and a rotating display of artwork from Andre Sakhai’s private collection, featuring works by Picasso, Basquiat, and emerging artists.

Andre Sakhai, a key patron of the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, envisions The Joyce as a space where fine dining meets fine art. “With The Joyce and The Window, we’re bringing Miami Beach something rare: exceptional food crafted with high-caliber ingredients and meticulous technique, all at an accessible price point,” says Sakhai.

Chef James Taylor adds, “After years of perfecting recipes and techniques, I’m excited to bring bold, well-executed flavors to Miami Beach. From our King Crab Scampi to the classic burger, each dish is designed to create an unforgettable experience.”

Spicy Hospitality Group’s innovative approach to blending fine dining and art doesn’t stop here. With two more concepts planned for mid-2025, the group aims to continue setting new standards for refined, subtle luxury in the restaurant industry.

• The Window at The Joyce: Open daily, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
• The Joyce: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Address: 448 Española Way, Miami Beach, FL

For those seeking an unforgettable culinary and artistic experience, The Joyce and The Window at The Joyce are set to become must-visit destinations on Miami Beach.

Ytech Secures $19.5 Million Predevelopment Loan for Ultra-Luxury Brickell Project

In a major step forward for Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, Ytech has announced the securing of a $19.5 million predevelopment loan from Israel Discount Bank. The financing will facilitate the development of a new ultra-luxury condominium complex on two prime parcels located at 41 and 75 Southwest 15th Road, collectively referred to as 41 and 75 Broadway. The combined 0.3-acre site sits just two blocks west of Brickell Avenue and directly across from Mast Capital’s Cipriani-branded luxury condo development.

Demolition of the existing structures, which include a single-story multifamily building and a two-story office building dating back to the late 1940s and 1950s, is currently underway. Ytech, led by CEO Yamal Yidios, had assembled the parcels between 2018 and 2020 for a total of $8.2 million, according to property records.

“With the predevelopment loan secured and demolition underway, we are setting the stage for a transformative development at the Broadway assemblage, located at 41 and 75 Broadway. These milestones, along with the recent groundbreaking of The Residences at 1428 Brickell, exemplify Ytech’s commitment to delivering the most exceptional developments in Brickell,” said Yidios in a statement.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of Ytech’s groundbreaking ceremony last month for The Residences at 1428 Brickell, a 70-story luxury condominium tower that integrates solar energy into its design. Earlier this year, Ytech also secured $78 million to refinance its acquisition loan for the 1.1-acre site at 1428 Brickell Avenue, underscoring its ongoing investment in the rapidly evolving Brickell corridor.

While specific details of the new project at 41 and 75 Broadway remain under wraps, the secured predevelopment financing and progress in demolition suggest significant momentum for Ytech as it continues to expand its luxury residential portfolio in one of Miami’s most coveted neighborhoods.

Excel Miami Breaks Ground: A New Era for Miami’s Arts & Entertainment District

The skyline of Miami’s Arts & Entertainment District is set to welcome a striking new addition. Shawmut Design and Construction, in partnership with Clearline Real Estate, has officially broken ground on Excel Miami, a 24-story residential tower located at 1550 NE Miami Place. With plans to bring 427 rental apartments to the area, the development aims to address the city’s increasing demand for diverse housing options.

The tower, conceptualized by the visionary firm Arquitectonica and executed with LEO A DALY as the architect-of-record, promises to deliver an array of thoughtfully designed units. Future residents can choose from studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, or one of the 13 unique townhouse lofts. These residences, ranging in size from 400 to 1,000 square feet, are tailored to accommodate a variety of lifestyles.

On the sixth floor, residents will find a comprehensive suite of amenities designed to elevate everyday living. Highlights include:

• A resort-style pool
• An inviting yoga deck
• A fully equipped fitness center
• Flexible coworking spaces
• A film screening room
• State-of-the-art podcast suites

Conveniently situated near the Metromover School Board Station, Excel Miami prioritizes accessibility and walkability, fostering a connected urban lifestyle in the heart of the district.

A Tower Adorned with Art

Excel Miami will stand out not only for its architecture but also for its artistic contribution to the cityscape. Renowned graffiti artist Claudia ‘MadC’ Walde will grace the tower’s façade with a large-scale mural. This collaboration underscores the project’s alignment with the artistic spirit of the district, making it a cultural as well as a residential landmark.

The groundbreaking event brought together prominent figures who celebrated the vision behind Excel Miami:

• Alexis Leal, Head of Florida at Shawmut Design and Construction
• Les Hiscoe, Shawmut CEO
• Jenny Bernell, Founder and CEO of Clearline Real Estate
• Francis Suarez, Miami Mayor
• Damian Pardo, District 2 Commissioner
• Alec Muñoz, Clearline’s Vice President of Development & Construction

“Excel Miami is more than just a development; it’s a statement of progress and possibility for Miami,” remarked Jenny Bernell, Clearline’s Founder and CEO. “This project is designed to meet the needs of today’s residents while embracing the cultural vibrancy that defines the Arts & Entertainment District.”

As construction kicks off, major milestones such as the mat foundation pour and the installation of the tower crane are expected in the coming weeks. These pivotal steps signal the rapid advancement of a project poised to redefine the neighborhood’s residential offerings.

Excel Miami is set to not only enhance the skyline but also enrich the community it serves. With its unique blend of design, amenities, and artistic integration, this development is a true reflection of Miami’s evolution as a global city. Keep an eye on this space for updates as the project unfolds in the dynamic Arts & Entertainment District.

Villa Miami Breaks Ground

The East Edgewater skyline is about to reach new heights with the breaking ground of Villa Miami—a collaboration of Terra, led by David Martin, One Thousand Group with Kevin Venger, Louis Birdman, and Michael Konig, and the culinary masterminds of Major Food Group: Jeff Zalaznick, Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Miami’s Alex Pirez. Marking the hospitality brand’s debut in residential development, Villa Miami represents a bold new chapter in Miami’s luxury real estate landscape.

This copper-clad, 56-story tower will soar 650 feet above Biscayne Bay, offering only 70 exclusive half- and full-floor residences. The project is a testament to design ingenuity, culinary excellence, and uncompromised service, creating an unparalleled living experience.

David Martin, CEO of Terra, shared, “Villa Miami embodies a commitment to world-class design and culinary innovation, while embracing a low-density model that redefines exclusivity. With just 70 residences, this project grants a sense of privacy that transforms living spaces into true ‘homes in the sky’.”

Slated for delivery in late 2027, the development is entrusted to Moss Construction, known for delivering iconic projects like Five Park Miami Beach. Construction is already underway, with seawall work beginning in September.

Jeff Zalaznick, Co-founder of Major Food Group, commented, “Every element of Villa Miami—from the design and finishes to the curated amenities—is a reflection of our dedication to excellence. This building represents more than luxury; it’s a physical manifestation of our passion for precision and quality.”

ODP Architects leads the architectural design of the tower, strategically located to offer effortless access to cultural, shopping, and dining hubs like the Design District and Wynwood. Residents will enjoy breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami Beach skyline.

The centerpiece of Villa Miami is The Copper Club, a three-floor, resident-only amenity suite that epitomizes luxury. With private dining, lounges, a screening room, wellness facilities, and even a rooftop helipad, the club fosters an unparalleled lifestyle. Completing this curated experience, residents will have priority access to a new Major Food Group waterfront restaurant, adding another layer of exclusivity.

Kevin Venger of One Thousand Group noted, “With Villa Miami, we’re bringing another landmark to Miami’s skyline, redefining luxury in Edgewater and Biscayne Bay.”

Villa Miami’s interiors mark the Miami debut of renowned designer Vicky Charles of Charles & Co., whose work has graced the homes of A-list celebrities worldwide. Inspired by mid-century Italian villas and Miami’s vibrant energy, the design incorporates warm woods, elegant curves, and ambient lighting, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and sophistication.

Terra and One Thousand Group bring an unparalleled legacy to the project, having delivered landmarks such as Five Park Miami Beach, Mr. C Residences Coconut Grove, and One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid. Their combined expertise ensures Villa Miami will set a new benchmark for luxury living.

As Villa Miami rises in East Edgewater, it promises to deliver a unique blend of sophistication, exclusivity, and visionary design, reshaping the future of Miami’s luxury real estate market.

Waymo’s Robotaxi Service to Expand into Miami, Setting the Pace for the Future of Autonomous Transportation

Waymo, the autonomous driving company spun off from Google, is making major strides in the race to dominate the robotaxi industry. With a steady expansion into new markets and a track record of success, Waymo is quickly outpacing its competitors, leaving them in the dust. The company recently announced plans to bring its driverless Jaguar vehicles to Miami, marking the latest step in its ambitious roadmap for expansion.

As part of its growth strategy, Waymo plans to begin testing its robotaxi fleet in Miami next year. The vehicles will undergo trials to familiarize themselves with the streets of Florida’s largest city, ensuring they can safely navigate the bustling urban landscape. By 2026, Waymo expects to begin charging for rides, giving Miami residents access to one of the most advanced autonomous driving services available.

This announcement comes just weeks after Waymo opened up its robotaxi service to the public in Los Angeles, covering an 80-square-mile area. The Los Angeles launch is part of Waymo’s expansion beyond its core markets of Phoenix and San Francisco, further solidifying its position as the leader in the robotaxi space.

In addition to the Miami launch, Waymo is also preparing to roll out its fleet in Atlanta and Austin next year. This move comes in collaboration with Uber, allowing the two companies to combine forces and make autonomous ridesharing a reality in multiple cities across the U.S. As part of its efforts to scale, Waymo has partnered with Moove, a fleet management service, to maintain its growing fleet of vehicles in Phoenix and Miami.

Currently operating around 200 vehicles in Phoenix, Waymo’s robotaxis have proven to be reliable, completing more than 150,000 weekly trips. Despite being a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. and still racking up significant losses, Waymo’s commitment to its mission is clear. The company recently raised $5.6 billion from Alphabet and other major investors, further fueling its expansion.

Waymo’s rapid rise is a testament to the power of long-term vision. What started as a secret Google project in 2009, known as “Chauffeur,” has evolved into the company we know today. In 2016, Waymo was spun off into its own entity, setting the stage for the launch of its autonomous taxi service. Over the years, the company has faced numerous challenges, but its continued success and market share growth show that the dream of a fully autonomous, self-driving taxi service is now becoming a reality.

While Waymo is driving forward, its competitors are facing obstacles. Cruise, the autonomous vehicle subsidiary of General Motors, is still recovering from a high-profile accident in San Francisco last year. The accident, in which a Cruise robotaxi dragged a pedestrian who had been struck by another car, led to the suspension of the company’s license to operate in California. This incident has slowed Cruise’s expansion plans, casting doubt on its ability to compete with Waymo in the near future.

Meanwhile, Tesla CEO Elon Musk continues to promise that Tesla’s “Cybercabs” will hit U.S. roads by 2026. Although Musk has made similar claims in the past, the company has yet to bring its autonomous ride-hailing service to market.

As Waymo moves ahead with its expansion into Miami and other cities, the future of autonomous vehicles looks increasingly bright. The company’s impressive safety record, growing market presence, and significant investment demonstrate that the transition to self-driving taxis is well underway. With rivals struggling to keep up, Waymo is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of the autonomous driving revolution.

ELLE Residences Miami: A Bold Fusion of Fashion, Design, and Lifestyle

Breaking Ground at The Residences at 1428 Brickell- Miami’s New Solar-Powered 70-Story Tower

The Residences at 1428 Brickell officially breaks ground. This 70-story tower, designed to generate its own solar power, is touted as the first of its kind in the world, cementing Miami’s place as a forward-thinking city embracing green building practices.

At the core of the tower’s design is a pioneering 20,000-square-foot “Solar Backbone” that sets it apart. This backbone integrates photovoltaic panels directly into the building’s glass façade, harnessing renewable energy to meet a portion of the building’s electricity needs. This innovative system is projected to produce 175 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually, cutting down around 4,700 tons of CO₂ emissions and saving the equivalent of 3,000 barrels of oil each year.

The tower, upon completion, will become one of the tallest in Miami, standing at an impressive 861 feet. With construction cranes exceeding 1,000 feet, this architectural marvel will soon dominate the Brickell skyline, embodying both height and purpose-driven design.

The residential offering is as exclusive as the structure itself, featuring 195 luxury units that promise breathtaking views and top-tier finishes. Residents will enjoy 80,000 square feet of amenities, all carefully crafted to deliver a high-end lifestyle in a sustainable environment. Pricing for these coveted residences starts at $3 million, with upper-range options reaching $7 million. The tower’s collection of penthouses, promising the pinnacle of opulence, are priced between $8 million and $60 million.

The team behind this project reads like a who’s who in luxury development. Ytech leads the charge as the developer, bringing in renowned firms ACPV Architects and Arquitectonica to execute the architectural vision. General contracting duties are in the capable hands of John Moriarty & Associates, a firm known for its commitment to quality and innovation in high-rise construction.

This tower is more than a striking addition to Brickell’s skyline; it’s a statement on the future of sustainable architecture. With its trailblazing solar capabilities, this development isn’t just setting a new standard in Miami but is marking a milestone on a global scale.

FAA Clears the Way for Aman Miami Beach Residences: A New Icon of Luxury and Heritage in the Faena District

OKO Group and Access Industries have received crucial Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approvals for the Aman Miami Beach Residences, an exclusive residential and hotel project at 3425 Collins Avenue. The FAA has issued two height clearances, ensuring the project aligns with airspace regulations while setting new standards for luxury living in the Miami Beach skyline. The primary clearance authorizes a maximum height of 252 feet above ground level (255 feet above mean sea level) at the building’s highest point. A secondary clearance applies to a segment closer to Miami International Airport’s (MIA) runway, capping its height at 227 feet above ground or 230 feet above sea level. These approvals, effective until April 2026, mark an essential milestone in the project’s progression.

Aman Miami Beach Residences will seamlessly blend luxury accommodations and private residences within the renowned Faena District, introducing a new residential tower with 23 private units alongside the preserved Versailles Hotel, which will host 56 Aman-branded hotel rooms. Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the structure epitomizes minimalist elegance with a unique synthesis of angular lines, soft forms, and Japanese-inspired materials that honor Miami Beach’s Art Deco heritage. Kuma’s vision allows for fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a visually stunning building that harmonizes with the landscape.

The project team features Revuelta Architecture International and RJ Heisenbottle Architects, while Suffolk Construction serves as the general contractor. Together, they are embracing Miami Beach’s growing trend of adaptive reuse, rejuvenating historic structures with contemporary architectural techniques. This approach is embodied in the Versailles Hotel’s restoration, a 1940s architectural gem that now offers a blend of historical charm and modern luxury in the Faena District.

While the exact construction timeline remains to be finalized, industry sources, including YIMBY, predict groundbreaking early next year, with completion expected around mid-2027. The Aman Miami Beach Residences promise to bring a refined architectural presence to the area and further elevate Miami Beach as a destination for high-end residential and hospitality experiences, cementing its status in the global luxury real estate market.