Club Studio Opens Flagship Fitness Concept at Miami Worldcenter, Bringing Boutique Wellness to Downtown Miami
Fitness International, LLC, the company behind LA Fitness and Esporta, has officially unveiled its 15th Club Studio® location — a 38,000-square-foot flagship facility at Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest and most transformative urban developments in the country. The state-of-the-art destination blends boutique fitness, recovery, and social wellness, marking a major step in Club Studio’s nationwide expansion.
Fitness International, LLC, the company behind LA Fitness and Esporta, has officially unveiled its 15th Club Studio® location — a 38,000-square-foot flagship facility at Miami Worldcenter, one of the largest and most transformative urban developments in the country. The state-of-the-art destination blends boutique fitness, recovery, and social wellness, marking a major step in Club Studio’s nationwide expansion.
“Our corner location at Miami Worldcenter brings our full concept to life, giving members the complete experience,” said Nick Roberts, Chief Real Estate Officer at Fitness International. “With over 30 years of operating history in Miami, we understand the transformative impact of the Miami Worldcenter development. Launching our first Florida Club Studio location here feels both natural and exciting.”
Club Studio offers a full range of premium training environments and recovery options under one roof. The flagship location introduces five boutique studio concepts, each designed to maximize results and engagement:
Strength: High-intensity CS4® classes using treadmills, rowers, ski-ergs, and functional strength equipment.
Box: Signature boxing workouts combining technique, athletic conditioning, and endurance.
Ride: Immersive rhythm-based cycling with coordinated lighting and upper-body integration.
Hot Yoga: Heated “Sweat +” sessions blending traditional asanas, yin poses, and dynamic flows.
Pilates: Reformer-based resistance classes designed to lengthen, tone, and strengthen the body.
Complementing its studios, the facility features Cryotherapy and Recovery zones offering localized and full-body cryotherapy, massage beds, compression therapy, and percussion tools for athletic recovery. Members also enjoy towel service, personal training, and a Kalologie® Medspa, along with Beaming, a healthy café serving smoothies, snacks, and meals. A curated retail boutique offers apparel and wellness products.
“Club Studio’s arrival at Miami Worldcenter marks an important milestone for our development and for Downtown Miami as a whole,” said Nitin Motwani, Managing Partner of Miami Worldcenter Associates. “As one of our marquee tenants, Club Studio brings an entirely new level of health and wellness offerings to the urban core — a destination that blends boutique fitness, recovery, and lifestyle amenities under one roof.”
Developed by Miami Worldcenter Associates, led by Art Falcone and Nitin Motwani, in partnership with CIM Group, Miami Worldcenter spans 10 city blocks and represents more than $6 billion in investment. The master-planned district integrates residential, retail, hospitality, and entertainment offerings that continue to shape Downtown Miami’s identity as a premier live-work-play destination.
Club Studio® is a next-generation fitness brand by Fitness International, LLC, combining multiple boutique studios, premium amenities, and advanced recovery within a single membership experience. The brand currently operates 15 locations nationwide, with plans to reach 50 by 2026.
Forward Hospitality Group and CHEF RAHEEM SEALEY Open Asian Smokehouse Shiso in Wynwood
Chef Raheem Sealey, known for his influential roles at KYU and Drinking Pig, in partnership with Forward Hospitality Group, have successfully opened Shiso—an Asian Smokehouse that uniquely fuses Caribbean influences, Japanese precision, and wood-fired BBQ techniques.
Chef Raheem Sealey, known for his influential roles at KYU and Drinking Pig, in partnership with Forward Hospitality Group, have successfully opened Shiso—an Asian Smokehouse that uniquely fuses Caribbean influences, Japanese precision, and wood-fired BBQ techniques.
Drawing on his roots from St. Croix and refined training at Le Cordon Bleu in Miami, Chef Sealey has created a menu that celebrates global flavors with innovative twists. The dishes, crafted for sharing, have quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Standout offerings such as the “Shiso Chicken Please”—a Cornish hen presented both smoked and fried with a distinctive white BBQ sauce—and the inventive Oxtail Gunkan, which layers smoked BBQ oxtail with pickle relish, rice, and a house-made oxtail ‘ju-su’ wrapped in nori, are a testament to the chef’s passion and culinary mastery.
Shiso’s physical space marries raw urban energy and refined elegance in its contemporary design. The venue, located at 239 NW 28th Street, offers an environment where exposed concrete beams adorned with graffiti art contrast with an illuminated quartz stone bar and polished weathered brick corridors. Inside, serpentine banquettes and expansive views of Miami’s horizon invite guests to linger and savor the dynamic atmosphere.
The restaurant’s impact is further extended by its striking 6,500-square-foot rooftop area. This vibrant space features a 35-seat racetrack-shaped bar with a retractable roof and semi-private dining cabanas, all set amidst a 2,000-square-foot green garden teeming with palm trees. This outdoor setting has quickly become a hotspot for those seeking a unique blend of culinary excellence and social engagement.
Inside Shiso, the dining experience goes beyond food. An open-kitchen layout infuses the space with culinary theater, where chandeliers illuminate dining areas framed by local murals and exposed brick. A 15-seat Chef’s Counter offers guests an exclusive, interactive Omakase experience, further enhanced by the expertise of Miami-based mixologist James MacInnes, who leads a world-class bar program emphasizing both craft and spectacle.
The venue is equally noted for its artistic elements. From a captivating street art mural that guides guests toward the rooftop, to a Harajuku-inspired bathroom featuring bold anime art, every detail reflects Wynwood’s creative spirit. Additionally, an origami-inspired entrance crowned with a sculptural wooden paper crane sets the stage for what has become a landmark destination blending food, culture, and art.
Now open Tuesday through Sunday from 5 PM to close, Shiso has quickly become more than just another restaurant—it is a dynamic hub where Miami’s culinary innovation meets the creative energy of Wynwood. The venue invites diners to connect, explore, and celebrate an integrated experience where tradition and innovation coexist. With its bustling indoor dining space and extensive rooftop area, Shiso is set to remain a centerpiece in Miami’s vibrant dining scene.
2025 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show Returns February 12-16
The highly anticipated 2025 Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show® is set to return to Miami from February 12 to 16, 2025, bringing the world’s largest collection of boats and marine products to South Florida. As the boating world converges on the Magic City, this iconic event promises to offer both seasoned boating enthusiasts and first-time buyers a glimpse into the latest trends and innovations in the marine industry.
The highly anticipated 2025 Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show® is set to return to Miami from February 12 to 16, 2025, bringing the world’s largest collection of boats and marine products to South Florida. As the boating world converges on the Magic City, this iconic event promises to offer both seasoned boating enthusiasts and first-time buyers a glimpse into the latest trends and innovations in the marine industry.
This year’s event will take place at some of the most iconic spots in Miami and each venue will showcase a variety of boats, from motor yachts ranging from 30 to 125 feet at Herald Plaza to exclusive superyachts at Yacht Haven Grande Miami, accessible with VIP or Superyacht Miami tickets. The Miami Beach Convention Center will feature a range of boats up to 49 feet, as well as engine manufacturers, marine accessories, and electronics. The Venetian Marina will also provide visitors the chance to get hands-on experience through sea trials, offering attendees the opportunity to test drive vessels and see firsthand how they perform on the water.
Attendees will have access to a diverse range of boats—from luxury yachts to fishing vessels—and cutting-edge marine technologies and accessories. As always, the show promises to be an immersive experience, offering a wealth of opportunities for attendees to connect with top manufacturers, explore new products, and even test drive the latest boats on the water.
For those looking to enjoy an elevated experience, the Windward VIP Experience offers exclusive access to private lounges, gourmet food, premium open bars, and a host of additional perks, including complimentary transportation and access to the Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande Miami.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the Miami Boat Show will emphasize environmental responsibility through initiatives like a no single-use plastic policy, water refill stations, and on-site recycling efforts. Additionally, a unique art installation made from plastics collected from Miami’s beaches will highlight the importance of ocean conservation and the show’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact.
The Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show® has long been one of Miami’s premier events, attracting over 100,000 attendees each year and contributing an estimated $956 million to the region’s economy. The event is a key driver of tourism and a significant boon for Miami’s hospitality and real estate sectors, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience everything Miami has to offer, both on land and at sea.
With its combination of stunning boats, cutting-edge marine technology, and immersive experiences, the 2025 Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show® is set to once again make waves in the Miami real estate market, attracting boating enthusiasts, industry professionals, and tourists alike to the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities. To purchase tickets, click here.
Reserve Cup Returns to Miami and Announces Expansion to Other Cities
The highly anticipated Reserve Cup, a flagship event by Reserve Padel, is set to return to Miami from January 23–25, 2025. Building on its successful inaugural tournament in 2024, the event will kick off the newly expanded Reserve Cup Series, featuring three weeks of elite padel competition in three major cities. This evolution positions the Reserve Cup Series as a premier showcase of the world’s top padel players, competing for the highest prize money in the sport’s history exceeding $1.7 million.
The highly anticipated Reserve Cup, a flagship event by Reserve Padel, is set to return to Miami from January 23–25, 2025. Building on its successful inaugural tournament in 2024, the event will kick off the newly expanded Reserve Cup Series, featuring three weeks of elite padel competition in three major cities. This evolution positions the Reserve Cup Series as a premier showcase of the world’s top padel players, competing for the highest prize money in the sport’s history 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 recognition for its intense matches, star-studded lineups, and exclusive entertainment experiences. The 2025 expansion aims to bring this unique blend of sports and luxury to a broader audience, starting 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.”
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 include 5x World Series Champion and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter and famed comedian and padel enthusiast Andrew Schulz. Beyond the action on the court, the event will offer exclusive parties, live entertainment, and premium food and beverage experiences. Guests can enjoy the ‘Reserve Club,’ a private space with unparalleled court views and a VIP culinary experience curated by Major Food Group. Additional dining options include offerings from Pura Vida Miami, Jimmy Butler’s Big Face Coffee, and Spicy Hospitality’s The Joyce.
The 2025 Reserve Cup Series will feature 16 of the world’s top-ranked padel players, including Arturo Coello, Agustin Tapia, Alejandro Galan, and Federico Chingotto. Players will compete in three distinct tournaments throughout the year, with performance-based rankings adding a competitive edge. Tickets for the Reserve Cup Miami are available now, with options for daily and three-day passes. To purchase, visit Universe. Following the Miami tournament, Reserve will reveal the next host city in this groundbreaking series.
The Reserve Cup Series represents a significant leap forward for padel, combining world-class competition with unparalleled luxury and entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to witness this transformative event in Miami this January.
James Beard-Nominated Duo Opens Ghee a Modern Farm to Table Indian Restaurant in Wynwood
FEAL Hospitality, the renowned restaurant group helmed by James Beard Award nominees Chef Niven Patel and Mohamed “Mo” Alkassar, has opened a new Ghee Indian Kitchen in Miami’s arts-centric Wynwood neighborhood. The Wynwood location will be the first step in Ghee’s planned national expansion, following the success of its original Dadeland restaurant and with Atlanta on the horizon. Known for redefining Indian dining in South Florida, Ghee has earned a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand distinction for three consecutive years (2022–2024) and captivated diners with its modern farm-to-table approach to Indian cuisine.
FEAL Hospitality, the renowned restaurant group helmed by James Beard Award nominees Chef Niven Patel and Mohamed “Mo” Alkassar, has opened a new Ghee Indian Kitchen in Miami’s arts-centric Wynwood neighborhood. The Wynwood location is the first step in Ghee’s planned national expansion, following the success of its original Dadeland restaurant and with Atlanta on the horizon. Known for redefining Indian dining in South Florida, Ghee has earned a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand distinction for three consecutive years (2022–2024) and captivated diners with its modern farm-to-table approach to Indian cuisine.
The new Ghee Indian Kitchen offers a mix of signature dishes from its original location alongside exciting new menu items, including mushroom momos, biryani, and a dedicated kebab section. The restaurant accommodates 120 guests, featuring indoor dining, outdoor seating, and a 10-seat bar. In a first for the Ghee brand, the Wynwood location features a full cocktail program that showcases farm-to-glass creations that incorporate bold spices and seasonal ingredients.
Among the highlights are signature cocktails such as the Golden Thread, a saffron-infused vodka sour, and the Mood Ring, a color-changing lemongrass Collins. Guests can also enjoy non-alcoholic mocktails like the Bear Necessities, featuring tamarind syrup and Seedlip Spice.
“Ghee Indian Kitchen is incredibly personal to me—it’s where my journey in hospitality truly began,” said Chef Patel. “Wynwood offers the perfect backdrop for us to evolve while staying true to our roots. I’m excited to introduce new dishes, like the kebab section, while continuing to showcase the bold, balanced flavors Ghee is known for. Wynwood is just the beginning; we’re looking toward Atlanta as our next stop.”
Ghee Wynwood will embody the creative spirit of its neighborhood with a vibrant interior design by Hybrid Creative. Inspired by a trip to India taken by Alkassar and Patel, the space will feature bespoke furnishings, including handmade bone-inlay tables and shell-inlay mirrors. At the heart of the restaurant is “Abundance II,” a painting of a family of elephants by Miami artist Matthew Herget, symbolizing Ghee’s growth and evolution.
Ghee Wynwood joins the growing list of FEAL Hospitality concepts, including Erba, an upscale Italian restaurant in Coral Gables; NiMo, a coastal Mediterranean venue in Jupiter; and Paya, an island-inspired eatery in South Beach. FEAL Hospitality, founded in 2018, has earned acclaim for its ingredient-driven menus and warm hospitality.
“Wynwood is the perfect next step for Ghee’s journey,” said Mohamed Alkassar. “This location not only brings our signature dishes closer to the heart of Miami but also elevates the brand with new experiences like the cocktail program. We’re proving that authenticity and scalability can go hand in hand.”
The all-day menu merges classic and new offerings. Highlights include:
• Snacks: Crispy Broccoli with mushrooms and red pepper sauce, Mushroom Momo with cashew sauce, and Yellowfin Tuna Bhel.
• Curries: Bell & Evans Chicken Tikka Masala, Kerala Lamb Curry, and Turmeric Marinated Fish.
• Kebabs & Grills: Lamb Chops with mint and cardamom, Black Tiger Prawns, and Zucchini Kofta.
• Desserts: Warm Sticky Date Cake with ginger ice cream and Chai Ice Cream Sandwiches.
In addition, Ghee offers a 13-dish tasting menu ($75), lunch tiffins ($24), and an Indian-inspired Hi-Chai tea service ($35), launching this month.
Chef Patel’s Rancho Patel in Homestead remains a cornerstone of Ghee’s approach, supplying the restaurant with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Additionally, the restaurant partners with sustainable fishermen and ethical livestock farmers to source high-quality ingredients. Ghee Indian Kitchen is located at 63 NW 24th Street, Miami, FL and operates daily from 11:30 AM to 11 PM.
MIMI Chinese Makes International Debut in Miami Beach
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. The Miami Beach location brings the same innovative and hospitality-driven experience to one of the country’s most vibrant culinary cities.
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. 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. The restaurant’s thoughtfully designed space and exceptional menu make it a standout addition to the local dining scene.
Kissaki Miami Unveils KISS: A Sophisticated Cocktail and Tapas Bar in South of Fifth
Miami Beach’s vibrant dining scene is getting a fresh addition with the opening of KISS, a chic cocktail and tapas bar from the team behind the celebrated Japanese restaurant Kissaki. Officially opened last week in South of Fifth, the venue combines innovative cocktails with globally inspired small plates, offering a unique experience that bridges creative mixology and culinary artistry.
Miami Beach’s vibrant dining scene is getting a fresh addition with the opening of KISS, a chic cocktail and tapas bar from the team behind the celebrated Japanese restaurant Kissaki. Officially opened last week in South of Fifth, the venue combines innovative cocktails with globally inspired small plates, offering a unique experience that bridges creative mixology and culinary artistry.
The cocktail program at KISS is crafted in collaboration with the team behind New York’s acclaimed bar ROKC, recognized by Thrillist as one of the "Best Bars in America." Helmed by ROKC’s co-founder and beverage director Joji Watanabe, the menu showcases avant-garde techniques such as milk washing and house-made syrups, ensuring each cocktail is a masterpiece. Guests can expect playful presentations, including drinks served in unconventional vessels like a red bell pepper. Signature creations include the Smoky Pina Colada, made with mezcal and milk-washed coconut milk, and the Macha, a Japanese whisky-based drink reminiscent of a matcha latte.
Adding to the allure, the food menu at KISS is designed by Chef Benjamin Tellez, executive chef of Kissaki Miami. It features a variety of tapas, from Wagyu Tacos in crispy blue corn tortillas to indulgent Caviar Cornets filled with crème fraîche and osetra caviar. For dessert, options like Matcha Pot de Crème with sesame donuts and Soft Serve Vanilla topped with olive oil, sea salt, and caviar offer a luxurious finish to the evening.
KISS shares its space with Lilikoi Organic Living, a beloved South of Fifth institution recently revived by Kissaki owner Gary Kanfer. The concept embodies Miami’s “retox-to-detox” ethos, operating as a health-conscious café by day and transforming into a glamorous cocktail bar by night. Patrons can enjoy green juices and organic meals during daylight hours, then return for sophisticated cocktails and elevated small plates in the evening.
Located at 500 South Pointe Dr #180, Miami Beach, FL 33139, KISS will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 6:30 p.m. until late night, with reservations available on Resy. With its inventive cocktails, refined menu, and seamless blend of daytime wellness and evening indulgence, KISS is poised to become a standout destination in Miami Beach’s dynamic culinary landscape.
Acclaimed Mexican Hospitality Brand RosaNegra Makes Its U.S. Debut
Grupo RosaNegra, the acclaimed Mexican hospitality group celebrated for its blend of elevated Latin American cuisine and high-energy dining experiences, has announced the opening of its first U.S. location in Miami’s Brickell district. The new RosaNegra restaurant is situated in the Dua Miami, Autograph Collection Hotel, formerly the SLS Brickell, and will officially open its doors on December 4, 2024. The space is owned by Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion.
Grupo RosaNegra, the acclaimed Mexican hospitality group celebrated for its blend of elevated Latin American cuisine and high-energy dining experiences, has announced the opening of its first U.S. location in Miami’s Brickell district. The new RosaNegra restaurant is situated in the Dua Miami, Autograph Collection Hotel, formerly the SLS Brickell, and will officially open its doors on December 4, 2024. The space is owned by Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion.
Renowned for flagship locations in Polanco, Tulum, Cancun, and Los Cabos, RosaNegra has built a reputation as a go-to destination for bold flavors and lively ambiance. The brand has attracted an A-list following, including Karol G, Canelo Álvarez, Eva Longoria, and David Beckham, and its Miami debut is poised to bring the same allure to the vibrant heart of Brickell.
RosaNegra Miami’s menu, curated by Executive Chef Omar Martinez, pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of Latin America with influences from Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil. Guests can expect signature dishes like the Lucifer Tomahawk on Fire, Super Colossal Octopus, and Lobster Tacos. The menu also includes a selection of premium beef cuts, including Kobe beef, Japanese wagyu, and USDA prime-quality Argentinian steaks. A variety of appetizers, ceviches, and tiraditos, such as the Burrata con Mole Almendrado and Tiradito de Salmon con Aji Amarillo, round out the offerings.
The beverage program emphasizes Latin America’s diverse spirit culture, featuring creative cocktails and an extensive selection of premium tequilas, mezcals, and Mexican wines. Highlights include the Amazonica, a blend of Brazilian cachaça, coconut liqueur, and avocado; and Luna Clandestina, which incorporates Bacanora, roasted pineapple, and turmeric.
RosaNegra’s ambiance reflects Grupo RosaNegra’s signature style, combining refined dining with a vibrant, late-night atmosphere. The restaurant spans 13,600 square feet, including a 4,600-square-foot outdoor patio adorned with woven basket chandeliers, lush greenery, and plush seating. The modern interior design incorporates warm, earthy tones, wooden elements, and expansive windows, creating a sophisticated yet inviting space. For a more exclusive experience, guests can discover a hidden speakeasy offering expertly crafted cocktails.
Located at 1346 S Miami Ave, RosaNegra will initially open for dinner service daily at 5 p.m., with brunch and lunch service to follow in the coming weeks.
This Miami debut represents Grupo RosaNegra’s first step into the U.S. market, marking an exciting new chapter for the celebrated hospitality brand. With its prime location in Brickell and its unique combination of elevated cuisine and dynamic energy, RosaNegra is set to become a standout dining destination in the city.
Merrimac Ventures Unveils Plans for Bungalow East Residences in Fort Lauderdale Beach
Merrimac Ventures, a renowned South Florida real estate investment and development firm, has announced the launch of sales for Bungalow East, an exclusive luxury condominium set to rise in Fort Lauderdale Beach. The 14-story boutique development will house just 34 residences, each designed with refined elegance and offering extensive amenities in one of the area’s most walkable and desirable beachside communities.
Merrimac Ventures, a renowned South Florida real estate investment and development firm, has announced the launch of sales for Bungalow East, an exclusive luxury condominium set to rise in Fort Lauderdale Beach. The 14-story boutique development will house just 34 residences, each designed with refined elegance and offering extensive amenities in one of the area’s most walkable and desirable beachside communities.
Situated at 530 North Birch Road, Bungalow East is positioned steps from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. The project, anticipated to break ground in late 2025 with an 18-month construction timeline, embodies Merrimac Ventures’ legacy of transforming Fort Lauderdale Beach from a seasonal “Spring Break haven” into a premier resort destination. This vision was first ignited by the Motwani family over 35 years ago through the strategic acquisition and redevelopment of oceanfront motels, paving the way for acclaimed developments like the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences, the Conrad Hotel, and Paramount Fort Lauderdale.
“Fort Lauderdale Beach’s transformation has been extraordinary,” said Dev Motwani, Co-Managing Partner of Merrimac Ventures. “Our family has been invested in this community for decades, and Bungalow East is a special project that completes our vision for this area.”
Bungalow East will feature spacious three- and four-bedroom residences ranging from 2,100 to 2,800 square feet, with options for flexible floor plans. Two exclusive penthouses, each spanning approximately 4,000 square feet and boasting private rooftop decks, are also part of the offering. Homes are priced between $2 million and $4 million and will feature floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces with summer kitchens, and high-end finishes that evoke a sense of sophisticated luxury.
The building's design, a collaboration between Swedroe Architecture and Adriana Hoyos Design Studio, embraces natural elements with neutral palettes, wood accents, and sleek modern finishes. Each residence will come equipped with private elevators and chef-inspired kitchens complete with gas-range stoves, emphasizing the development’s focus on upscale, functional living.
Amenities at Bungalow East are designed for a lifestyle of relaxed luxury. Highlights include a resort-style pool deck, a wellness center with massage rooms and a beauty salon, a rooftop sunset lounge, and a yoga lawn. Additional offerings include a gaming and entertainment lounge, a conference center, and pet-friendly features such as a dog run and spa. A ground-floor retail space is slated to house a future café or wine bar, adding to the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.
Residents will also gain membership privileges at the Fort Lauderdale Yacht Club and exclusive access to the Conrad Hotel Fort Lauderdale, which includes beach service and full use of the hotel's amenities.
“OneWorld Properties is thrilled to lead the sales and marketing of Bungalow East,” said Peggy Olin, CEO of OneWorld Properties. “This development will redefine luxury living in Fort Lauderdale Beach, offering residents both exclusivity and convenience in an unparalleled location.”
Fort Lauderdale Beach continues to attract a wave of new residents and investors, driven by Florida’s favorable tax policies and high quality of life. Bungalow East is poised to cater to this growing demand, appealing to locals and out-of-state buyers seeking proximity to the beach and access to South Florida’s vibrant culture.
The community’s prime location offers residents easy access to North Beach Village’s top dining and entertainment spots, including The Secret Garden Dining Club, Truluck’s, and Casablanca Café, as well as cultural attractions like the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the trails of Birch State Park.
Casa Gianna Brings Vibrant Italian Dining to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences
Opening on November 18, 2024, Casa Gianna will debut as a fresh Italian dining experience at the newly launched Gale Miami Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami. Developed in collaboration with the global hospitality brand Zouk Group, Casa Gianna aims to offer an inviting and authentic culinary experience, transitioning seamlessly from a morning café into a lively evening dining spot.
Opening on November 18, 2024, Casa Gianna will debut as a fresh Italian dining experience at the newly launched Gale Miami Hotel & Residences in Downtown Miami. Developed in collaboration with the global hospitality brand Zouk Group, Casa Gianna aims to offer an inviting and authentic culinary experience, transitioning seamlessly from a morning café into a lively evening dining spot.
Russell Galbut, Owner Representative of Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, emphasized the importance of the restaurant’s opening: “Casa Gianna sets Gale Miami apart as a key destination, especially with our proximity to the Miami Worldcenter. Working with Zouk Group has been instrumental in shaping Casa Gianna, which is just the beginning of our vision for the property’s culinary offerings.”
Under the direction of Executive Chef David Caceres, the menu will feature a diverse range of both traditional and modern Italian dishes. Highlights include Pappardelle Alla Rosa De Ricotta with brown butter sage, Crusted Pistachio Chilean Seabass with tomato puttanesca, and artisanal pizzas prepared in a custom Wood & Stone pizza oven. Options such as the Ai Funghi e Tartufata pizza and gluten-free or vegetarian dishes ensure an inclusive dining experience. “Each dish tells a story, merging classic Italian flavors with contemporary flair,” Chef Caceres noted.
Casa Gianna’s 9,000-square-foot space, designed by New York’s Laseu Studio, combines the ambiance of a classic Italian trattoria with modern design elements. High ceilings, warm wood accents, and a 360º bar opening to the lush Terrazza create a welcoming environment for both indoor and al fresco dining. The restaurant also features Café Gianna, a grab-and-go spot inspired by Miami’s Cuban ventanitas, serving Italian pastries and espresso.
Complementing the menu, Casa Gianna will offer a curated wine list featuring selections from Italy’s renowned vineyards and a cocktail menu with options like the Sunset in Sicily and Tuscan Mule. Guests can take advantage of the signature Aperitivo Hour, designed for pre-game or post-event gatherings, given the restaurant’s prime location near Kaseya Center.
Casa Gianna’s opening will be followed by brunch service and regular entertainment events, adding to Downtown Miami’s vibrant culinary and social scene. The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, located at 601 NE 1st Ave., will further expand its offerings in 2025, welcoming a Bodega Taqueria y Tequila outpost and two additional dining concepts. Casa Gianna will operate daily, with hours set for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Bal Harbour Shops has unveiled its fully leased, 200,000-square-foot West Shops expansion, with 30 luxury boutiques and flagship stores and openings continuing through 2028.