Botánico Gin and Cookhouse has officially opened its doors in Coconut Grove’s Cocowalk and it’s exactly what you think it is! Botánico is the first ‘gin-centric’ eatery offering the most extensive and unique gin-focused cocktails in Miami.
The co-owners, Ricardo Ordoñez and chef Gerardo De Negri are the brains behind the menu and unique concoctions. Ordoñez and De Negri have created such a unique dining experience focusing on modern American cuisine that highlights some Ecuadorian ceviche family recipes.
The gin menu includes 15 gin and tonic botanical variations infusing lavender, lemon, grape, crystallized ginger, and/or green apple. Whether you enjoy citrus, herbs, or fruits, flavors can be fully modified to appeal to any gin connoisseur. Not only does it have a well-versed gin menu but it also features a fully stocked bar with an extensive wine menu.
Photo Credit: Botánico Gin and Cookhouse
Botánico not only features the best gin drinks in Miami, but they also have an extensive wine program featuring over 2,000 bottles from around the world including; Mexico, Croatia, and Uruguay. The wine is stored in a state-of-the-art glass-enclosed and temperature-controlled cellar.
If the cocktail menu doesn’t appeal to you, then you will definitely be satisfied with the food options. The menu highlights octopus carpaccio, duck confit, short rib, and pulled pork. French-themed burgers, marinated shrimp, and their artisan cheese boards are the stars of the menu.
Botánico’s atmosphere is a relaxed sophistication with marble touches, porcelain tiles, and natural woods strategically placed throughout. The rainforest green marble bar wraps around the space creating the perfect ambiance. Two expansive patios with lush landscaping will create the perfect al fresco dining experience. The building itself located at 3015 Grand Avenue, Suite 123 is a 3,009 square foot space with 150 seating availability.
Photo Credit: Cocowalk
JSX Announces ‘Hop-On Jet Service’ Flights from Miami to Texas and New York
Miami welcomes JSX, a “hop on jet service” with crowd-free flights on private planes. With JSX’s announcement comes all the special privileges of a private jet without the hefty price tag.
Their East Coast routes will link Miami International Airport to New York and Texas with flights beginning November 18th. Fares from Miami to Westchester County, New York start at $749 one way, and Miami to Dallas start at $499 one way.
The best part of JSX flights is that they offer guests the ability to check-in for flights 20 minutes prior to departure between private terminals at Miami International Airport. Not only do they have a quick check-in, but there are also no crowds and 30-seat jets with business class legroom. JSX also offers two free checked bags, free snacks, and drinks.
According to the CEO of JSX, Alex Wilcox, “Since day one, our Customers have asked JSX to serve the East Coast and I am thrilled to say that our distinctive style of flying has finally arrived. It’s no secret that demand from New York and Dallas to Florida is at an all-time high, and we are delighted to bring our hop-on jet service to these vibrant markets ahead of the busy holiday season.”
JSX created this flight experience for anyone who values their time and wants a world-class experience, from business travelers, first-class fliers, to families looking for quick flights.
JSX is the first and only carrier that links Westchester County to Miami International Airport and the first “uber-like” plane carrier linking Dallas to Miami. Welcome to flying redesigned!
Photo Credit: JSX Website
Sold Less Than 1 Year Ago- Chris Bosh’s Previous Waterfront Mansion Lists at a 192% Increase
Retired Miami Heat player, Chris Bosh sold his waterfront mansion in January 2021 for $14.4 million. The property located in Miami Beach has now been relisted at $42 million in less than 9 months.
According to county records, the current owner of the property is AquaBlue Group, a building design company also located in Miami Beach. AquaBlue is led by Philippe Harari and mainly does business in Miami. AquaBlue currently owns 2 Palm Island properties, 1 Hibiscus Island property, 1 Venetian Islands property, and a bayfront resort-like retreat.
The Miami Beach property was originally purchased for $695,000 in 1991 and the current home that sits on the lot was developed in 2008. In 2010, Chris Bosh purchased the property for $12.3 million. Over the years, Bosh has tried to sell the property for $18 million and $15 million, later selling in January 2021 for $14.4 million.
The waterfront Miami Beach mansion located at 6396 North Bay Road features 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms with 11,709 square feet of living space. The lot itself sits on 0.55 acres of water frontage directly on Biscayne Bay. This modern waterfront was architecturally designed by Touzet Studio with double-height rooms.
The custom Italian kitchen features unique modern cabinets, high-end appliances, and an expansive island. The master suite features direct bay views and a wet bar. The outdoor area is a perfect entertaining space with an outdoor kitchen, cabana bathrooms, infinity pool, gym, guesthouse, and boat dock. Custom branded Italian furniture will be included in the purchase.
The market has been surging with waterfront property transactions, including those on North Bay Road. In June, Dwayne Wade and his wife’s Gabrielle Union sold their home on North Bay Road for $22 million. Phil Collins also sold his waterfront home in January for $39.2 million. Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck rented a waterfront estate just 2 doors down from Wade for $150,000 monthly.
New 18-Story Residential Tower Proposed in Coral Gables
The brains behind the development, Armando Codina, said the concept behind this newly proposed tower came to him because he has been wanting to downsize while continuing to live in a high-end luxury apartment without a homeowner’s association.
Codina, Chairman for Codina Partners states that this new development will provide all of the comforts and high-end amenities as the big house he grew up in with his family.
He now seeks approval for this new development concept for the tower Regency Residences. Once complete, he plans on living in the penthouse.
The proposed site for Regency Residences is a 1.75-acre site located at 2601 Salzedo Street in Coral Gables. The property was involved in a land swap with an automotive dealership in April. According to the records, the property was acquired by an affiliate of Codina Partners in Coral Gables, C/LeJeune LLC.
The proposed tower is projected to rise 18 stories tall with 329,197 interior square feet. Included in the square feet is a 4,050 square foot restaurant, 389 parking spaces, and `176 residential units. According to Codina, the residential units may be more or less, depending on demand and floor plans. These units will be referred to as “sky homes.”
Codina originally planned for three condos on the four floors under his penthouse. His most recent statement included Codina possibly leasing each of the floors separately, which equates to 10,000 to 12,000 square feet.
Smaller units will feature 1,500 to 3,000 square feet with 2 to 4 bedroom options. Smaller apartments will be available for building staff.
According to Condina, there will be no short-term leases. Larger apartments will be leased annually or on a multi-annual basis. Long-term tenants who secure a unit early will have input in the design of the units.
Coral Gables Development Review Committee will meet on October 5th to review and consider plans for Regency Tower. Once approved, the start date for the project is expected to begin in early 2022.
Another North Bay Road Mansion Sells for $13.6 Million
Photo Credit: Robert Evangelista
North Bay Road mansions have been a hot commodity this year! In January Phill Collins sold his North Bay Road mansion for $39,250,000 and is set to be demolished by buyer Thomas Bravo. In June, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck rented a waterfront mansion for $130,000 monthly. With so much activity, it’s of no surprise how quickly these Miami Beach multimillion-dollar homes sell.
Lawyer Stephen Zack and his wife, Marquerite, also sold their mansion located at 5310 North Bay Road. The couple sold the home for $13.6 million after they originally purchased the home just 3 years ago for $8.5 million. Since 2018, the home has been listed for sale with an original list amount of $21 million.
The buyer for this Miami Beach home is listed in the county records as North Bay Road Developments LLC, a company that is managed by Guillermo Osses, Francisco Perez, and Miguel Yoma.
According to public records, Osses is the Vice President of Atacama 2108 LLC and is also affiliated with 23 other companies. Yoma is the Manager for San Marino Developments. The partners financed the purchase through Terrabank for $6 million.
The magnificent waterfront estate features 8,148 square feet of living space with 6 bedrooms and 6 full and 2 half bathrooms. The Georgian-style home has been remodeled two times, remarkable mansion features a 5,000 bottle wine cellar, pool. jacuzzi, and expansive home theater.
Stephan Zack is a trial attorney and partner at Bois Schiller Flexner LLP. He was also the lead attorney for former Vice President Al Gore in the Florida recount litigation that took place in 2000. During that time, he was an expert witness for voting accuracy. He is also a past president of the Florida Bar Association as well as the American Bar Association.
The Zacks also have a luxury unit located on the 54th floor of the Four Seasons Residences, which they purchased in July for $8.1 million.
Photo Credit: Robert EvangelistaPhoto Credit: Robert EvangelistaPhoto Credit: Robert Evangelista
57 Ocean Construction Complete and Condo Units are 100% Sold Out at $336 Million
Recently, we have seen a number of residential towers sell out prior to construction or during construction. Towers like Residences of Armani Casa and Aston Martin Residences have either sold out or are very close to selling out, so it is of no surprise to learn about 57 Ocean selling out, right as construction is complete.
The developer and Brazilian billionaire, Jose Isaac Peres’ recently sold out at 57 Ocean as well secured its temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) for the tower. According to a managing partner, Marcelo Kingston, the sell-out includes a recent sale of a luxury penthouse for $36 million, originally listed at $38 million.
Sales previously launched in 2018 with price ranges from $1.5 million to $36 million. According to Kingston, closings will begin in October 2021. The tower sold out at $330 million.
According to the developer, about 60-70% of the buyers were domestic, and with the steady stream of sales, they were able to raise prices.
One of the lower penthouses that sold includes a $13.8 million unit purchased by Chuck Roberts, Stifel’s Managing Director of Investments.
57 Ocean located at 5775 Collins Avenue rises 18 stories and features 69 luxury condo units. Designed by Bernado For-Brescia of Arquitectonica and interiors by Patricia Anastassiadis.
57 Ocean Amenities
World-class spa
A state-of-the-art fitness center with a fully-stocked snack and juice bar
Thermal suite with steam room, aromatherapy saunas, experience showers, and ice fountain
Indoor and outdoor massage treatment suites
Library
Two expansive, infinity pools
Poolside cabanas
Poolside bar and lounge
Sunset terrace with a spa pool, wet deck, and lounge area
Meditation area
Yoga and Pilates area
Outdoor training area equipped with Myisle by Myequilibria
Clubroom with chef’s kitchen
Summer kitchen pavilion
Children’s playroom
Direct access to the beach and beach boardwalk
Services
Full-service concierge
24-hour valet parking service
24-hour security
Pool and beach attendants with food and beverage service
On-call fitness trainers, spa treatment specialists, and private chefs
Residence Features
Terraces, up to 12 feet deep
Wood-like ceiling accents
Glass balustrades
Modern Poliform cabinetry
State-of-the-art appliances
Solid marble waterfall island
Master bedrooms open to the terraces
His and her closets
Bathrooms lined in floor-to-ceiling stone
Floating tubs
Sliding glass doors and vanities by Poliform
Soft hidden lighting
According to Kingston, the project was completed on time. The developer is currently working on another boutique condo in Miami Beach called Ocean Park, which is anticipated to be complete in the summer of 2022
Miami Real Estate Breaks Another Record for August 2021
The Miami-Dade real estate market keeps smashing records over and over! For August 2021, a new record was set for the most homes sold in a quarter for Q2 in 2021. In April alone, we saw the best sales month in the history of Miami Dade county. Now, another record was set with the best August sales month in history!
There are multiple reasons for these records breaking, which include companies and executives moving their businesses to Florida in the masses, lower taxes than other states, record-low mortgage rates, and reduced covid restrictions.
Total homes sales surged 30.6% for August 2021 with an increase to 3,299 from 2,527 properties in 2020. There was a slight decrease in sales for single-family homes at 3.5% sliding from 1,357 to 1,309 from August of last year. However, we did see a 70.1% increase in condo sales from 1,170 to 1,990 compared to last year.
All price ranges have also increased for August 2021, especially in the $300,000 and higher range. The median sales price for single-family homes is up 20.3%, placing the average price at $500,500. Condo median prices are also up from the previous year from $265,000 to $335,000.
Insufficient inventory has also impacted sales. We have seen less inventory specifically for single-family homes which has decreased by 27.4% for August 2021 and 41.9% for condominiums.
Single-family luxury homes have also increased by 68.8% with 258 sales than 2020. Luxury condo sales increased by 217.1% with 222 sales.
Total volume for Miami-Dade real estate reached $2.5 billion in August 2021, with single-family homes increasing from 37.4% at $1.4 billion. Condo volume also increased from $490.8 million to $1.1 billion, at 129.2%.
Cash sales have also played a huge role in transactions. Buyers are paying cash at asking or over asking prices for listings. Cash sales represented 38.9% of all closed transactions for August. Cash sales accounted for 47.6% of condo sales and 25.8% of single-family sales.
Miami is on track to have its best year in sales for condos and single-family transactions ever. Within 8 months, total sales have already surpassed 2020’s numbers at 26,931 from 26,345 (2020). The highest year for sales in Miami was in 2013 at 30,041 total transactions.
Former Linebacker for the Miami Dolphins Sells Miami Beach Home for $6.25 Million
Photo Credit: Julian Cohen
Orlandus Andre Branch III is a former outside linebacker for the Miami Dolphins, who played from 2016 until his retirement in 2019. Branch recently sold his mansion for $6.25 million after purchases in 2019 for $2.8 million. What an investment!
Located just a couple blocks from Biscayne Bay in the Nautilus neighborhood at 4535 Nautilus Court in Miami Beach. The modern mansion features 6,000 square feet of professionally designed living space.
The 6 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom new construction home features European oak and marble floors throughout and high-end kitchen appliances. The home is completely finished with a steam room, media area, and tall ceilings throughout.
Photo Credit: Julian Cohen
The exterior is perfect for entertaining with an expansive backyard with lush Florida landscaping featuring an outdoor kitchen, oversized terraces, pool, and jacuzzi. The mansion is perfectly located near South Beach, Bal Harbour, and the Design District.
According to Miami-Dade tax records, the home closed on September 3rd, to buyers Bryant M. Yunker Jr. and wife Nancy. Bryant is a retired Wall Street Broker. The Yunker’s also own Sway Lounge, located in Naples, Florida.
This property is the highest-priced sale for a non-waterfront home in the Nautilus neighborhood. This record-breaking sale is just one of the many that have occurred in Miami in 2021.
In July, a waterfront mansion sold as the highest-priced home sale ever in all of Miami-Dade. Bay Harbor Islands also had a record-breaking sale of $12.75 million on a recent waterfront home, making it the highest-priced sale in all of Bay Harbor. Our very own, Lucas Lechuga, also sold one of the highest-priced condo sales for the month of August 2021 at Setai South Beach for $12.3 million.
If you’re having trouble deciding on plans this weekend, we’ve made it easy for you! Here are the tops things to do this Labor Day 2021 weekend.
STAYCATION
Enjoy a nice long staycation this weekend at these unique Miami Hotels.
Goodtime Hotel-This 7-story hotel is located at 601 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach and features 266 rooms spanning a full block with 100,000 square feet of indoor space. Enjoy the art deco pool deck all day before your reservations at their signature restaurant Strawberry Moon.
Fontainebleau-This luxury hotel is located in Miami Beach and it is considered the #1 Hotel in Miami Beach according to Travel + Leisure magazine. With current specials, Fontainebleau has package options available for all. It also has a number of lounges, bars, nightlife, and restaurants.
Photo Credit: www.fontainebleau.com
RESTAURANTS
Make your Labor Day weekend reservations now at these new Miami restaurants.
Winker’s Diner-This day to night Miami Beach restaurant features an Art Deco-inspired style with classic leather booths, a 3D layered wall dedicated to the perfect Instagram photo, and a peninsula liquor bar. Enjoy breakfast all-day to deli sandwiches as well as traditional dishes including crispy chicken sandwich, lobster salads, Prime Rib, and their famous Cinnamon Roll French toast.
SFC Sushi Fly Chicken– This Toyko inspired restaurant, bar, and lounge brings the underground nightlife and diverse Asian cuisines. Specialty sushi rolls and fried chicken plates but let’s not forget the bespoke beverages including yuzu margaritas, lychee martinis, and Japanese whiskey cocktails.
Toothfairy bakery– Not quite a restaurant but if you have a sweet tooth, this retro-modern bakery is the place to be. Enjoy Cake Pop Candy Bars, Snickerdoodle cookies, or cotton-candy cones! This bakery is located in Miami Beach and it does offer reservations.
Photo Credit: Groot Hospitality
CRUISE, DANCE, & MORE
Booze Cruise– Join the party for a Hip Hop Club Booze Cruise on September 4, 2021. The 3 hour Miami Party cruise will kick off on Biscayne Bay with drink and food specials. Unlimited drink specials and a DJ will get you ready for the ultimate dance competition. There are 4 cruise times available.
SHOTS Miami– SHOTS first opened in 2012 because of the need for a different nightlife scene. The 7,000 square feet venue features unique drinks prepared by trained experts. This is an excellent late-night place to visit after dinner or your booze cruise!
WWE Monday Night Raw-Get up close and personal ringside on Monday,m September 6th at Monday Night Raw hosted by FTX Arena. Show begins at 7:30pm.
