In December 2021, it was announced that a Miami Developer along with Driftwood Capital announced plans the rebuild The Wharf alongside the Miami River. Now, those plans have officially been submitted to Miami’s Urban Development Review Board.
The plans for this project include a hotel and an entertainment complex with retail, food, and beverage. The cost for the project is estimated at $185 million. The plans submitted include 174 hotel units operated by Dream Hotels and 91,733 square feet of commercial space.
A 16,000-square-foot restaurant, a 12,000-square-foot event hall, a 30,000-square-foot nightclub/rooftop day club, and 600 feet of river frontage are all planned for the 200,000-square-foot project. Garcia’s Fish Market may also set up shop on the property as a pop-up market. Its commercial fishing activity used to be located on the property.
The zoning requirements for this type of proposal would include 417 parking spaces but the developers are requesting a 50% reduction in parking by the entertainment and hotel spaces sharing parking. Once approved, the parking spaces will be offsite.
A part of the proposed development includes public used land, which will require a special election. That election is currently scheduled for August 23 and it will involve a potential lease of the public property to the developer.
The 1.5-acre Miami River property at 114 Southwest North River Drive will be developed by MV Real Estate Holdings and its partner, Coral Gables-based Driftwood Capital. Nitin Motwani, the managing partner of Merrimac Ventures and the developer of the Miami Worldcenter, is also a general partner in the project, according to Mantecon.
The Miami Urban Development Review Board is scheduled to review the development proposal on March 16, 2022.
Announced: Bitcoin Conference Miami Beach April 6-9 2022
For the 2nd year, the International Bitcoin Conference is coming back to Miami Beach and it will be bigger than the last day. Stretching over 4 day, this event will introduce cryptocurrency experts, investors, and industry leaders through panel discussions, Q&As, lectures and much more. On the last day, a music festival, the “Sound Money Fest” will take place with some major headliners.
This year the Bitcoin Conference will be held at the Miami Beach Convention Center form April 6-9, 2022. This week long event is dedication to the education of the Bitcoin ‘ecosystem’ through companies as well as upcoming project at the conference.
According to the numbers from the previous Bitcoin 2021 Conference, there were 12,000 in attendance making it a sold out event. This was considered the largest Bitcoin event in history. This year, they conference is expected to bring over 35,000 people from all over the world.
Some of the main headliners include Michael Saylor, Nick Szabo, Jack Dorsey and Tony Hawk. Jack Dorsey is the former CEO of Twitter and is also the founder of Block, Inc., a digital payment company based in San Francisco. Michael Saylor is a big name investor in Bitcoin with a stockpile of 21,454 Bitcoin = $876.5 million.
Tony Hawk also made an appearance during last year’s conference and discussed the parallels of cryptocurrency and skateboarding. His charity foundation just recently started accepting bitcoin as well.
The event is open to all ages at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Ticket prices begin at $862. For more information on the conference or to purchase tickets, click here.
MSC Cruises USA Breaks Ground on PortMiami Terminal
MSC Cruises USA has recently broken work on an extensive cruise terminal at PortMiami as it expands operations at the congested port. The cruise line is based in Switzerland but the US locations are currently in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, and now Miami.
The terminal building itself rises 4 stories and will spread over 490,000 square feet. The building itself will cost $350 million. Once the project is complete in 2023, the capacity of the terminal can hold 36,000 passengers daily. The terminal can hold 3 cruise chips at once and it will include the MSC Seascape (a 2,270 cabin).
The project will also have a 2,400 space parking garage and lot. MSC Cruises utilizes LNG (liquified natural gas) powered ships. The ships can also connect to shore power while docking which creates a more fuel-efficient ship.
According to the President of MSC Cruises USA, Rubén Rodriguez, “Our new terminal at PortMiami represents MSC Cruises’ commitment to growing in North America and will help drive our expansion in South Florida and beyond.”
Arquitectonica is the designer of the building while Italy-based Fincantieri Infrastructure is listed as the developer for the project. The old renderings for the terminal included a separate building for the USA headquarters for the cruise line but the plans transitioned into more space for customers. There are talks of leasing office space in other areas of Miami.
PortMiami has seen a lot of construction over the past year. Larger cruise lines are expanding their fleets like Royal Caribbean Group, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, and Virgin Voyages.
Plans for Twin Condo Towers at the Turnberry Yacht Club Proposed
Jeffrey Soffer, CEO of YCM Acquisition LLC, has submitted a site plan to build on a section of the 18.4-acre site located at 19500 and 19735 N.E. 36th Street in Aventura. The current site is comprised of 7.6 acres of buildable land and 10.8 acres of submerged land.
Currently on the site is a marina, a 50-room hotel, a clubhouse, a spa, and tennis courts. The two proposed condos would replace the hotel, eight tennis courts, and a portion of the parking lot that is currently on the site.
The twin towers would be labeled as towers north and south and would rise 24 stories tall. The north tower would equal 398,000 square feet in the first phase of the project, with 145 condominiums, 10 service apartments, and 320 parking spots.
The residential units would range from 1,730 square feet for the two-bedroom floor plan to 4,990 square feet for the three-bedroom floor plan.
The service apartments would be smaller and range from 367 to 638 square feet. These suites would only be for guests of owners and can be purchased by the owners.
Each condominium would have its own pool, exercise facility, and social areas. Two additional tennis courts would also be built in the south tower.
Soffer is making a name for himself in Aventura, first with the Turnberry Ocean Club and a building north in Tequesta and now with this new development.
No dates have been submitted for the review of the proposal. Arquitectonica is the architect for these twin towers.
New York Developer Secures $108M Construction Loan for a 42 Story
New York developer has secured a $108 million construction loan to construct an apartment building at the 27-acre Miami Worldcenter development in downtown Miami. The site covers approximately 20,980 square feet and is located at 697 N. Miami Avenue.
The New York developer under the name Block G Phase 2 LLC, which is managed by Mark Lapidus received the mortgage from Los Angeles Cim Real Estate Credit. Lapidus is the former WeWork CEO.
This property will be part of the current tower at Caoba apartments and will be designated as the second phase of this current tower. The new tower will be connected to the amenity deck of Caoba, which was originally opened in 2019.
The tower was originally approved in 2018 and was reactivated again in September 2021.
Construction is already underway and this second phase will feature 420 units rising 42 stories. The square footage for this property includes a project of 473,330 square feet which will include 4,103 square feet of retail.
The renderings show that the tower will not a parking garage but will share the amenity pool deck. It will also be a bit smaller in height and width but should remain very similar to the current design of Caoba. The cost of the project is estimated to be $82,833,750.
Coastal Construction and AECOM Tishman, is listed as the general contractor. The project is projected to be completed in late 2022 or early 2023.
Plans Submitted for 48 Story Tower: Brickell Gateway
Israeli-developer, Gazit Horizons, is on track to bring a 48 story tower to Miami’s Brickell. Located at 90 SW 8th Street next to Brickell City Centre, will be the Brickell Gateway Tower. The 377,000 square foot project will bring residential units, office spaces, a hotel concept, and retail to the neighborhood.
Gazit Horizons acquired the land in July 2017 for $29.5 million and March 1, 2021, was the date that the developers submitted plans for demolition. The tower is proposed to include 500 condo units.
The demolition approval is still pending. According to the plans, the site only permits plans for a building up to 48-stories and they are taking full advantage.
The demolition costs for the property would total $139,698 with an estimated cost for completion at $150 million. BG Group is listed as the demolition contractor for the project. Once approved, the developers are aiming for a completion date in quarter 2 of 2023.
The developers met with the City of Miami on February 15, 2022, for review. The current status of the project is still in redesign.
You may be familiar with the current site of the proposed tower. It is a black building with magnificent artwork portraying soccer-based graffiti. The soccer club, Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami, that houses the building has been renting the space since 2018. David Beckham is the Miami MLS Owner and President of Football Operations.
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!
Most Romantic and Unique Miami Restaurants to Book this Valentines Day
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Monday this year, you’re probably trying to decide what day to celebrate this year’s romantic occasion. While we can’t help you choose the day, we can help with dinner!
This year we have compiled some of the most unique and romantic restaurants that we love and that we think you’ll love too.
Sexy Fish
Sexy Fish’s menu is a work of art, featuring classics influenced by Asia and Japan. Bjoern Weissgerber, the Chef Director, has produced delectable dishes such as Duck Salad, Smoked Tuna Belly, Black Cod, King Crab, Bone Marrow, and crispy Eringi Mushroom. Don’t miss the Sexy Gold Fish or Crispy Caviar with gold-flake sea bass marinade. There is also a large wine and champagne selection, as well as unique cocktails such as Chocolate and Wine, Yuzu, and Elderflower.
Sexy Fish, designed by SeaVisions, exudes an aquatic ambiance with a big-lit fish tank that spans the wall of the private dining room and serves as the restaurant’s focus. Throughout, you’ll find stunning artwork by Damien Hirst as well as 26 bespoke fish lights designed by Frank Gehry. Click here to make reservations or browse the menu.
ZZ’s Sushi Bar
ZZ’s Sushi Bar menu includes classic tuna and salmon selections, as well as unique salads and Wagyu meat. ZZ’s also has the greatest assortment of Wagyu beef in the country. Don’t miss out on one of their most well-known specialty dishes, the Caviar Temaki.
The first level is bursting at the seams with bentwood banquettes, sculptural, handpainted finishes, and animal print rugs. Every surface is adorned with antique furniture and brass lights. The terrace is dubbed a “tiki bar on acid,” with wicker furniture and banana prints complementing the futuristic building.
Although ZZ’s is advertised as a member-only restaurant, there is an optional invite-only membership available, so as long as you can secure a reservation, you may enjoy all of the amenities that a member does! Click here to make reservations or browse the menu.
Carbone
Carbone has become a South Beach neighborhood mainstay in such a short time, thanks to its exceptional food, retro-style French décor, and landmark location. Raw-bar platters with stone crab claws, crab knuckle sandwiches, spicy rigatoni, or veal parmigiana are some of our favorite menu items.
The sumptuous Ken Fulk design, as well as the Captains dressed in Zac Posen tuxedos, guide clients through menu selections, and salads are produced tableside for the entire Carbone experience. The atmosphere continues with intimate tables, low lighting, and classic French and Italian music playing. Did we forget to say it’s Michelin-stared? To make a reservation or to browse the menu, click here.
Elcielo
Located in Brickell, Elcielo features modern yet classic Colombian dishes. Chef Juan Manual Barrientos uses an avant-garde approach to cooking the signature Latin dishes. Barrientos utilizes small and medium plates that feature avocado tempura, Colombian Arepas, Tuna Tartare, and Yuca Gnocchi.
The delectable food is served with breathtaking river views and stylish décor enhanced with flora, leather, and wood. Private dining experiences for couples or groups are provided in VIP lounges. The Experience menu will have more than 22 moments.
The Waterfront Terrace is great for special occasions and gatherings. Enjoy our a la carte food and beverages while listening to upbeat music, surrounded by palm trees and flora, the breeze, and river views. Check out the menu or make a reservation here.
Cote Miami
Executive Chef David Shim, a native of Seoul, South Korea, is responsible for the one-of-a-kind masterpieces at Cote Miami. Shim acquired expertise and recognition in New York City at Gramercy Tavern, Veritas, and L’Atelier de Jol Robuchon. Chef Shim’s specialty dishes include 45-day USDA dry-aged beef, delectable side dishes, stunning slices of Korean beef, and a Steak OmakaseTM experience. Other menu items include East/West Coast Oysters, Maine Lobster, caviar service, steak tartare, and Korean bacon.
COTE Miami has a 100-seat dining room with interactive smokeless state-of-the-art tabletop grills at each dining table, a dry-aging room, and two private dining rooms. The setting is intimate and pleasant, and the meals are incredibly innovative and awe-inspiring! Click here for their full menu or to make reservations.
Sixty Sixty Condo Hotel Sold to Miami-Based Investment Group for $24 Million
In a previous foreclosure fight among owners and developers, the Sixty Sixty condo-hotel in Miami Beach has been sold for $23.5 million to a buyer who intends to repair as well as add to the waterfront development.
The 82-key condo-hotel is located at 6060 Indian Creek Drive along an inlet off of Biscayne Bay but also features views of the ocean. Integra Investments along with Sagar Desai’s Activate Hospitality sold the property to Bloom Hotels, under the umbrella of Bloom Ventures. The founder and CEO of Bloom is David Harari, who is located in Miami.
The CEO of Integra Victor Ballestas stated, “ripe market conditions created an opportunistic circumstance for the sale,” after stating he had no intention of selling the development.
The Schecher Group originally sold a majority of the units in 2020 to Integra and Activate for $15 million, then later bought the rest of the units in 2021. The company was then accused of a takeover although Schecher stated that the unit owners owed $9.4 million in homeowner association fees.
Bloom Hotels utilized Sheridan Capital to finance the property for a loan of $17.3 million. There have been talks of Bloom increasing the room count and bringing Canopy or Tapestry (Hilton brands) to assists with operations. Some plans include modernizing the property as well as adding a marina to the development.
