Playboy To Relocate Global Headquarters to RIVANI Miami Beach
Robert Rivani, the commercial real estate and hospitality visionary known for disrupting traditional asset classes and transforming them into headline-making destinations, announced that Playboy has signed a lease at his flagship project, RIVANI at 1691 Michigan Avenue.
Robert Rivani, the commercial real estate and hospitality visionary known for disrupting traditional asset classes and transforming them into headline-making destinations, announced that Playboy has signed a lease at his flagship project, RIVANI at 1691 Michigan Avenue.
The new RIVANI Miami Beach building—Rivani’s $100 million “Class X” office redevelopment—will serve as Playboy’s headquarters. Located adjacent to Lincoln Road, the project redefines the workplace by blending five-star hospitality, curated wellness, and elevated design, setting a new benchmark for commercial office buildings.
“Securing a top-tier, globally recognized company like Playboy underscores the level of prestige and energy we are bringing to RIVANI Miami Beach, and we are excited for the world-class brands that will join them,” says Robert Rivani.
The announcement coincides with Rivani’s debut of his company’s rebrand from Black Lion to RIVANI — showcasing a commitment to creating revolutionary environments where hospitality, design, wellness, and service converge at the highest level.
“The rebrand is a pivotal moment for us—it reflects who we are today and where we’re headed,” says Rivani. “Black Lion laid the foundation, and RIVANI is the evolution. We’re continuing to disrupt the industry with a timeless, elegant and intentional approach to lifestyle-driven experiences.”
Designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group and inspired by Rivani’s hospitality experience, RIVANI Miami Beach offers elevated amenities including a full-service concierge, valet, world-class spa, fitness and wellness center, meditation room, Omakase restaurant, speakeasy, living room-style meeting spaces, and private event venues.
Rivani has amassed nearly $200 million of prime South Florida assets over the last 10 years, anchored by some of Miami’s most sought-after restaurant and retail spaces. His holdings include marquee destinations such as Amara at Paraiso, the upcoming GAIA, and the fully leased Wynwood Jungle. This year, he made headlines with a string of record-breaking deals, including the $28.2 million sale of Catch Miami Beach—setting a Florida record for a freestanding restaurant—and a $38.25 million all-cash sale of two premier restaurant spaces within SLS Lux Brickell and Dua Miami Hotel (formerly SLS Brickell), marking one of 2025’s most significant hospitality-driven transactions.
Images via RIVANI Miami Beach
Robert Rivani's Black Lion Investment Group Sells Restaurant Space Occupied by CATCH in South Beach For Record $28.2 Million
Black Lion Investment Group, led by Robert Rivani, has sold one of their trophy assets in Miami Beach’s highly sought after South of Fifth neighborhood for $28.2 million to Texas-based investor River Oaks Properties, led by its President Adam Frank.
Black Lion Investment Group, led by Robert Rivani, has sold one of their trophy assets in Miami Beach’s highly sought after South of Fifth neighborhood for $28.2 million to Texas-based investor River Oaks Properties, led by its President Adam Frank. Purchased in 2022 for $11.5 million, Black Lion strategically acquired the location at 200 South Pointe Drive and within weeks signed a 15-year lease to bring in CATCH, one of the most renowned dining destinations in the country. The transaction marks the highest value attributed to a freestanding restaurant property in Florida’s history, showcasing the demand for irreplaceable assets in Miami’s exclusive South of Fifth neighborhood.
“We are proud to have played a key role in bringing a world-class tenant to one of Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods. CATCH has elevated the city’s dining scene, and we are grateful to their team for placing their trust in us and our property,” said Rivani. “This deal underscores the resilience and growth potential of the restaurant industry in the South Florida market.”
CATCH first opened its doors in New York City's Meatpacking District in 2011. Its Miami outpost, which debuted last summer, offers an impressive 23,000-square feet of space. The restaurant showcases a mix of indoor dining and an outdoor rooftop space, designed by Rockwell Group.
JLL Capital Markets' Alex Sharrin and Jeffrey Cicurel represented Black Lion in the transaction, and procured the buyer represented by Pegasus Investment's David Chasin and Daylin Ackerman.
“CATCH Miami Beach represents a rare fusion of a critically acclaimed dining operator, underpinned by credit, and positioned amidst some of the most coveted real estate in the country – Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood,” Sharrin added.
Black Lion’s portfolio includes an impressive array of hospitality-driven properties with tenants including Gekko, Amara, Rosa Negra, and the upcoming GAIA. Rivani recently cemented his bullish run on Miami by purchasing a 160,000-square foot office building at 1691 Michigan Ave in April 2024. Coined ‘The Rivani’, the hospitality visionary plans to transform the office building into a Class X space showcasing features you would find at an exclusive 5-star hotel including a concierge, spa, meditation room, fitness center, salon, cafe, and a Japanese restaurant and speakeasy.
“Miami continues to solidify its status as a world-class, thriving city and we are proud to play a part in its evolution,” said Rivani. “We are excited to soon unveil an incredible lineup of tenants who will be joining ‘The Rivani’ this year.”
PROFILE Exclusive Podcast with Real Estate Investor Robert Rivani of Black Lion Investment Group [Full Youtube Interview]
PROFILEmiami co-founder Demetri Demascus had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with real estate investor the founder and CEO of Black Lion Investment Group, to discuss the South Florida real estate market. We joined Robert at his beautiful home in Miami to discuss how he has taken Miami by storm, successfully investing over $250 million into Miami commercial real estate.
PROFILEmiami co-founder Demetri Demascus had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with real estate investor the founder and CEO of Black Lion Investment Group, to discuss the South Florida real estate market. We joined Robert at his beautiful home in Miami to discuss how he has taken Miami by storm, successfully investing over $250 million into Miami commercial real estate over the past several years. In this PROFILE Exclusive interview with Robert we explore the current state of the Miami real estate market, what factors are influencing the future of the market, Miami’s culinary and entertainment scene, his investment strategy, portfolio and why he moved his family to the Magic City.
Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion Investment Group, is an American entrepreneur, retail entertainment innovator and real estate visionary. The real estate and hospitality visionary has invested over $250 million into Miami real estate in the past few years and is venturing into the commercial office sector with his largest and most ambitious acquisition to date, the $62.5 million purchase of ‘The Lincoln’ in Miami Beach. Following the acquisition of ‘The Lincoln’ Robert has plans to invest an additional $50 million to reimagine the property into ‘Class X’, an innovative concept that aims to redefine luxury and service standards in the office industry. Named the ‘Rivani’, the reimagination will deliver a meticulously-designed, highly amenitized experiential office and retail property that transcends the standard, mundane office space.
Born in 1990, Rivani sold his first company–a footwear business–for $150,000 when he was only a teenager. From there, he went on to participate in day trading, only to lose most of his earnings. It was this first foray into the stock market that taught him patience and deliberation when it comes to investing. During the economic downturn of 2008 and 2009, Rivani worked at his family’s property management firm. He soon realized that there were opportunities in buying, flipping and re-selling inexpensive buildings in areas in need of development. He began doing this in Georgia, and then expanded to Wisconsin, Illinois and Texas.
Over time, he would perfect his business model and the art of the 1031 exchange. Rivani became increasingly interested in finding vacant or abandoned sites and transforming them into thriving retail and entertainment destinations. Throughout each process, Rivani always made it a goal to create ways to benefit the community. In 2014, Rivani created Black Lion Investment Group. He named it Black Lion because he feels he is the trend-bucking black sheep of the real estate world, and the lion is his favorite animal. To date, the company has transacted on over $500 million in real estate deals across the United States. Year over year, Rivani and Black Lion have consistently doubled their growth.
“I’m not your typical developer and owner, and never wanted to be. We have strong ambitions as a company, and are not afraid to take risks in this burgeoning new climate for entertainment and lifestyle real estate. As we begin to expand our portfolio, we are going to change the way it's done. I don’t follow trends. I want to set them to ensure future success,” says Robert Rivani.
Rivani sees the overlap of retail, entertainment and dining as a new frontier in real estate. Inspired by Miami’s high energy lifestyle, Black Lion presently focuses on entertainment-focused endeavors spanning from Brickell, Edge Water, Downtown, South Beach and all ever-expanding social scenes in South Florida. Through his company, Rivani has recently acquired the restaurant SLS Brickell, SLS LUX tower featuring the hot new restaurant Gekko with famed restaurateur David Grutman, Amara at Paraiso, One Thousand Museum, One Ocean, Marea and Continuum– all high profile restaurant spaces.
Furthermore, Rivani also has also developed a one of a kind property located in the heart of Wynwood, Miami’s famed creative hub. He acquired the property Wynwood Jungle to achieve this dream by dynamically changing the façade, look and feel of the center including building a 10,000 SF rooftop, all of which garnished 100% occupancy within 12 months of acquisition.
Rivani plans to invest another $100+ million into South Florida in the next year, as companies and individuals alike continue to relocate to the area from across the country. Rivani’s plans are certainly not limited to South Florida as Black Lion Investment Group has owned properties in 14 states. A historical and current profitable business model continues to be the retail power centers. Black Lion Investment Group currently owns a 300K+ SF center in New Jersey and a 100K SF center in Arizona. An early riser and a dedicated athlete (namely tennis and basketball), Rivani credits his disciplined routine for part of his success. His interests in life include spending time with his wife, traveling the world, and enjoying culinary adventures. Rivani has recently enjoyed his move to make Miami his primary home.
Black Lion Acquires Miami Beach Office Building For $62.5 Million And Reveals Renderings Of Rockwell Group Luxury Renovation
President of Black Lion, Robert Rivani, the real estate and hospitality visionary who has invested over $250 million into Miami real estate in the past few years, is venturing into the commercial office sector with his largest and most ambitious acquisition to date, the $62.5 million purchase of ‘The Lincoln’ in Miami Beach.
President of Black Lion, Robert Rivani, the real estate and hospitality visionary who has invested over $250 million into Miami real estate in the past few years, is venturing into the commercial office sector with his largest and most ambitious acquisition to date, the $62.5 million purchase of ‘The Lincoln’ in Miami Beach. Robert has plans to invest an additional $50 million to reimagine the property into ‘Class X’, an innovative concept that aims to redefine luxury and service standards in the office industry. Named the ‘Rivani’, the reimagination will deliver a meticulously-designed, highly amenitized experiential office and retail property that transcends the standard, mundane office space.
“While luxury residential and hospitality projects push the boundaries of service and experience to attract discerning clientele, office spaces remain conventional, failing to meet today’s expectations. Companies are struggling to entice employees back to the workplace,” said Robert. “I see an opportunity to cultivate an environment that isn't just functional, but genuinely desirable - something people will truly want to be a part of. I am introducing a whole new category of office space that will reinvent the luxury office and set a new standard for the entire industry.”
Inspired by Robert’s travel to world-class destinations across the globe, ‘Class X Office’ will seamlessly integrate luxury with convenience, establishing elevated benchmarks for amenities, design, technology, and hospitality-infused services. Designed by renowned architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, ‘Rivani’ is poised to become a beacon office destination unlike any other, showcasing features you would find at an exclusive 5-star hotel, including a concierge, spa, meditation room, fitness center, salon, cafe, living room for meetings and gatherings, a podcast room, plus a Japanese restaurant and speakeasy. Members also gain access to private event spaces.
“Rockwell Group is thrilled to partner with Robert and Black Lion on this pioneering project,” said Shawn Sullivan, Partner, Rockwell Group. Rivani is an opportunity to bring a luxurious, tailored, and timeless experience to Miami’s office sector. We were inspired by the dichotomy of French and Japanese design influences: Sophisticated, layered, artful moments juxtaposed with meditative, distilled and crafted spaces. Throughout, we celebrate exquisite views, the geometry of the existing building, and the lushness of Miami.”
"Rivani is redefining Miami's office design landscape by seamlessly blending opulent hospitality with a tranquil, wellness-centric ethos,” said Carlos Rodriguez from Escala Forma Studio. "Through a harmonious fusion of calming aesthetics and high-end amenities, our design transforms the workspace into a sanctuary of style, comfort, and productivity, elevating the overall work experience."
Ideally located in the heart of Miami Beach at 1691 Michigan Avenue next to buzzy Sunset Harbor and Lincoln Road, the landmark property showcases 118,658-square feet of interior office space, 5,000 of which will serve as Black Lion’s new flagship Miami headquarters, 43,166-square feet of retail, and 318,000-square feet of parking. Current tenants include Apple, West Elm, William Sonoma, Morgan Stanley, and Coldwell Banker.
The building is one of the largest in the area and the transaction marks the largest office transaction in Miami Beach since 2016. Christian Lee and Sean Kelly from CBRE represented the seller while Jeremy Hakala, Clay Sidner and Brandon Shores with Newmark represented Black Lion in the transaction and will oversee leasing. Completion for the project is expected mid 2025.
“This transaction stands out as a milestone in South Florida’s commercial real estate industry, underscoring Black Lion's confidence in the area’s office and retail sector,” said Hakala. “At a time when people are betting against office ventures, Robert is boldly investing millions and going full force, positioning himself as a pioneer in redefining the asset class in a city that demands it.”
Within just 2 years since entering the Miami market, Black Lion has established a formidable presence, amassing a portfolio that now exceeds $250 million in South Florida alone and disrupting the real estate hospitality scene by signing world-renowned brands including Delilah at Brickell Bay Boardwalk, CATCH at the Continuum, Amara at Paraiso with chef Michael Schwartz, and Gekko by David Grutman.
“This marks an unbelievable personal and professional achievement for me,” said Robert. “Being able to close such a significant deal without partners or investors at the age of 34 is a dream come true, and validates what I have been working so hard to build. It wasn’t long ago that I was selling Jordan sneakers and being a serial entrepreneur. Now I’m buying my own office building, establishing my company headquarters there, and pioneering a whole new ‘Class X’ sector. This isn’t just a real estate transaction, but the start of an entirely new frontier for how people will experience luxury at the office.”
Robert Rivani Sells Miami Penthouse At The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach
Views of the Bay and Ocean are put directly on display with floor-to-ceiling windows encompassing the entirety of the penthouse. Sleek light toned interiors enhance the setup with thoughtfully curated features throughout. Find a custom eat-in kitchen by Boffi equipped with Gaggenau appliances, marble counters, and a large walk-in pantry.
Real estate investor Robert Rivani of Black Lion has sold $8 million his penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach, which was listed for $8.8 million with Dina Goldentayer of Douglas Elliman. Rivani acquired the penthouse, which is located at 4701 N Meridian Ave, Miami Beach LPH02, in May 2022 for $7.5 million.
Sophistication is key inside this 4 bed + media lounge, 5 bath penthouse at the building where Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber nabbed a unit per media reports. The corner residence spanning 4,525-square feet is one of the largest in the building with 11-foot ceilings and expansive living spaces radiating in Eastern sunshine.
Stunning views of the Bay and Ocean are put directly on display with floor-to-ceiling windows encompassing the entirety of the penthouse. Sleek light toned interiors enhance the setup with thoughtfully curated features throughout. Find a custom eat-in kitchen by Boffi equipped with Gaggenau appliances, marble counters, and a large walk-in pantry. The dining room showcases a gorgeous blue statement chandelier. The primary suite is reminiscent of a jewel box with textured velvet touches showcasing water views from almost every angle.
Designed by Piero Lissoni, The Ritz Carlton Residences Miami Beach offer boutique South Florida living on the bay with a private marina, a rooftop pool deck with cabanas and poolside grille, meditation garden, Club Room with a pool table and virtual golf, Spa and state-of-the-art Fitness Center, Art Studio and a fully equipped Kid’s Room and an elite concierge to assist with residents every need.
Images via Become Legendary / Dina Goldentayer
Robert Rivani's Black Lion and Mathieu Massa's Massa Investment Group Set To Acquire Former Starwood Capital HQ In Miami Beach For $82 Million
Real estate and hospitality visionaries Robert Rivani, founder and President of Black Lion, in partnership with Mathieu Massa, Founder and CEO of Massa Investment Group, are under contract to acquire one of the most significant office buildings in Miami Beach for $82 million. Serving as the former headquarters of Starwood Capital, the building has been primarily vacant since the company exited in 2022.
Real estate and hospitality visionaries Robert Rivani, founder and President of Black Lion, in partnership with Mathieu Massa, Founder and CEO of Massa Investment Group, are under contract to acquire one of the most significant office buildings in Miami Beach for $82 million. Serving as the former headquarters of Starwood Capital, the building has been primarily vacant since the company exited in 2022. Black Lion and Massa Investment Group have plans to invest millions to overhaul and breathe new life into the property.
Located in the heart of the South Beach historic district, the property occupies a coveted corner at 1601 Washington Avenue, allowing for ocean-level views of the beach and scenic Miami skyline. Encompassing a sprawling 140,000 square feet, the versatile mixed-use development comprises ground-level retail spaces plus an expansive 499-space parking garage. The 8-story building sits steps away from the iconic Lincoln Road Mall, ensuring effortless access and walkability to a wealth of restaurants, shopping, and hotel options.
“Black Lion has a track record for transforming properties into prime assets by being creative and coloring outside of the lines. Our vision for this space is next level,” said Rivani. “With the migration of companies and wealth from cities like Los Angeles, New York and Chicago to South Florida, there is an undeniable need for elevated, world-class office space. We plan to deliver a one-of-a-kind hospitality office and retail experience that the area has never seen before.”
"Teaming up with Robert Rivani and Black Lion on this groundbreaking Miami Beach acquisition is an exciting step forward in our journey to redefine luxury living and workspaces,” said Mathieu Massa. “This property at 1601 Washington Avenue holds immense potential, and our vision is to transform it into an unparalleled, world-class office and retail destination that South Florida has long been yearning for. We're here to bring innovation, creativity, and a touch of visionary flair to this iconic space."
Jeremy Hakala and Clay Sidner with Newmark brokered the deal. The property is expected to close at the end of the year.
Robert Rivani's Black Lion Set To Bring Mexican-Based Entertainment Restaurant RosaNegra's First U.S. Location To SLS Brickell
Real estate investor and President of Black Lion, Robert Rivani, is set to bring the U.S. debut of internationally-recognized entertainment restaurant RosaNegra to Miami’s Brickell Financial District. The Mexico-based Grupo RosaNegra signed a 10-year lease with Rivani to occupy the coveted ground floor space at SLS Brickell. Fabio Faerman and Sebastian Faerman with FA Commercial represented both sides of the transaction. The SLS Brickell location will be RosaNegra’s flagship outpost in the U.S. and its sixth location worldwide.
Real estate investor and President of Black Lion, Robert Rivani, is set to bring the U.S. debut of internationally-recognized entertainment restaurant RosaNegra to Miami’s Brickell Financial District. The Mexico-based Grupo RosaNegra signed a 10-year lease with Rivani to occupy the coveted ground floor space at SLS Brickell. Fabio Faerman and Sebastian Faerman with FA Commercial represented both sides of the transaction.
“Bringing this legendary restaurant group to South Florida is right on brand with Black Lion’s grand vision to transform the way Miami does hospitality,” said Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion. “RosaNegra will add an incredible energy to the area’s social scene and elevate the luxury restaurant experience in Brickell.”
The SLS Brickell location will be RosaNegra’s flagship outpost in the U.S. and its sixth location worldwide. A tribute to Latin American cuisine and culture, RosaNegra breaks traditional patterns of formality by fusing gourmet culinary experiences with high-level entertainment and personalized attention.
RosaNegra will occupy 13,634-square-feet at the SLS Brickell on South Miami Avenue, around the corner from Bad Bunny’s Japanese-inspired restaurant Gekko at the SLS LUX Brickell condo building, the space of which is also owned by Rivani. Expected to open in Spring 2024, the restaurant will also feature 4,634-square-feet of outdoor space.
Passionate about incorporating high-quality products and the freshest ingredients into the restaurant’s eclectic menu, RosaNegra explores gastronomic traditions from Peru, Argentina, Colombia, Brazil and Mexico. Meticulously designed signature dishes are infused with authentic and daring flavors from around the globe, including Tasmanian smoked trout, Spanish carabineros, and Wagyu from Japan. Beautifully presented artisan cocktails are made using signature infusions and natural ingredients. The multi-sensory culinary experience is enhanced by a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of live music, a resident DJ and high-level entertainment, creating unforgettable moments.
The deal is the latest addition to Black Lion’s elite dining portfolio. Black Lion’s portfolio value exceeds over $200 million in acquisitions across South Florida with a noteworthy collection of high profile restaurant tenants, spread from Miami Beach to Wynwood, and from Brickell to Downtown. The collection includes Gekko in Brickell SLS LUX; Philippe by Philippe Chow anchoring One Ocean South Beach; Catch Miami Beach at the Continuum high-rise; Amara at Paraiso with chef Michael Schwartz; Wynwood Jungle with a newly opened Fable rooftop restaurant; GAIA on the ground floor of the Marea condo building; and Delilah at Brickell Bay boardwalk.
Images via Black Lion / RosaNegra
Black Lion's Robert Rivani Lists Penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach For $8.8 Million
Real estate investor Robert Rivani of Black Lion has listed his penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach for $8.8 million with Dina Goldentayer of Douglas Elliman. Rivani acquired the penthouse in May 2022 for $7.5 million. The listing comes on the heels of selling his ground floor restaurant space at One Thousand Museum for $7.9 million which he acquired in October 2022 for $6.4 million.
Real estate investor Robert Rivani of Black Lion has listed his penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach for $8.8 million with Dina Goldentayer of Douglas Elliman. Rivani acquired the penthouse in May 2022 for $7.5 million. The listing comes on the heels of selling his ground floor restaurant space at One Thousand Museum for $7.9 million which he acquired in October 2022 for $6.4 million. The sale came in an effort to free up capital for a future acquisition in Miami Beach.
Sophistication is key inside this 4 bed + media lounge, 5 bath penthouse at the building where Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber nabbed a unit per media reports. The corner residence spanning 4,525-square feet is one of the largest in the building with 11-foot ceilings and expansive living spaces radiating in Eastern sunshine.
Stunning views of the Bay and Ocean are put directly on display with floor-to-ceiling windows encompassing the entirety of the penthouse. Sleek light toned interiors enhance the setup with thoughtfully curated features throughout. Find a custom eat-in kitchen by Boffi equipped with Gaggenau appliances, marble counters, and a large walk-in pantry. The dining room showcases a gorgeous blue statement chandelier. The primary suite is reminiscent of a jewel box with textured velvet touches showcasing water views from almost every angle.
Since last year, Black Lion has secured over $100 million+ in acquisitions across South Florida with a rapidly expanding portfolio of restaurant/hospitality properties from Miami Beach to Wynwood, Brickell and Downtown – including the space for Gekko by David Grutman x Bad Bunny; Amara at Paraiso with chef Michael Schwartz; Wynwood Jungle with a newly opened Fable rooftop restaurant; Delilah at Brickell Bay boardwalk and more.
Designed by Piero Lissoni, The Ritz Carlton Residences Miami Beach offer boutique South Florida living on the bay with a private marina, a rooftop pool deck with cabanas and poolside grille, meditation garden, Club Room with a pool table and virtual golf, Spa and state-of-the-art Fitness Center, Art Studio and a fully equipped Kid’s Room and an elite concierge to assist with residents every need.
4701 N Meridian Ave, Miami Beach LPH02 is listed for $8.8 million by Dina Goldentayer with Douglas Elliman.
Robert Rivani's Black Lion Investment Group Acquires SLS Brickell Restaurant Space For $10 Million
Black Lion Investment Group, the Miami-based real estate and hospitality developer led by Robert Rivani, has added yet another trophy property with the acquisition of the trophy restaurant space at SLS Brickell for $10,000,000. The restaurant space is approximately 13,500 SF of indoor / outdoor space and was previously Bazaar Mar by Chef Jose Andres which closed in 2019. The sellers were members of the Qatar’s ruling royal Al Thanis family.
Black Lion Investment Group, the Miami-based real estate and hospitality developer led by Robert Rivani, has added yet another trophy property with the acquisition of the trophy restaurant space at SLS Brickell for $10,000,000. The restaurant space is approximately 13,500 SF of indoor / outdoor space and was previously Bazaar Mar by Chef Jose Andres which closed in 2019. The sellers were members of the Qatar’s ruling royal Al Thanis family who acquired both the hotel and restaurant space for $43 million in 2014.
The deal was brokered by Fabio and Sebastian Faerman of FA Commercial, who represented Black Lion while Jordan Karp of Jordan Karp, LLC. and Andrew Dicky of JLL represented the seller in the transaction.
Black Lion intends on bringing yet another one of a kind concept to Brickell’s already spectacular restaurant scene with a proven track record of restaurants like Gekko at SLS LUX, Catch and Continuum, Philippe Chow, Amara at Paraiso, Delilah and Wynwood Jungle.
The 52-story SLS Brickell is an over-the-top, chic residence and hotel tower developed by Related Group located in the heart of Brickell, just a walking distance from Brickell City Centre. The tower hosts 453 contemporary residences and hotel suits with panoramic views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay.
Robert Rivani's Black Lion To Bring Philippe by Philippe Chow To One Ocean In Miami Beach's South of Fifth
New York-based restaurant Philippe by Philippe Chow has signed a 15 year lease to occupy the coveted restaurant space at One Ocean South Beach which was acquired by Robert Rivani’s Black Lion Investment Group in November 2022. With plans to open the flagship outpost in Q2 2024, Abraham Merchant and Richard Cohn are bringing the brand's legacy of sophisticated Beijing-inspired dining to One Ocean in the heart of the South of Fifth neighborhood.
New York-based restaurant Philippe by Philippe Chow has signed a 15 year lease to occupy the coveted restaurant space at One Ocean South Beach which was acquired by Robert Rivani’s Black Lion Investment Group in November 2022. With plans to open the flagship outpost in Q2 2024, Abraham Merchant and Richard Cohn are bringing the brand's legacy of sophisticated Beijing-inspired dining to Black Lion’s entire ground floor space at One Ocean in the heart of the South of Fifth neighborhood.
“Landing a legendary restaurant brand with an incredible following is in step with Black Lion’s vision to curate an epicenter for elevated dining and nightlife experiences,” said Robert Rivani. “Philippe by Philippe Chow will deliver a culinary cornerstone unique to the neighborhood and is the perfect fit for its future.”
Philippe by Philippe Chow will occupy 13,500+ square-feet on the corner of South Pointe and Ocean Drive. Attached to multi-million dollar residential condos, the space interiors span 10,000-square-feet with 3,500-square-feet of exteriors. An iconic restaurant for almost two decades, Philippe Chow’s first, and now flagship, location opened in Uptown Manhattan in 2005. Since then, the restaurant remained an undisputed favorite among New York City’s power crowd—including athletes, musicians and film stars—who crave Chef Chow’s interpretation on traditional Chinese cuisine.
Known for his modern, flavorful, and theatrical style, Chef Philippe Chow—the brand’s visionary and namesake—is world-renowned for his lavish, Beijing-style dishes and pioneered the way for fine-dining Chinese cuisine in the U.S.
“The expansion of Philippe Chow to such an iconic location in this taste-making gateway city is a key milestone for the brand both here in the United States and overseas,” says Abraham Merchant, president and CEO of Philippe Chow.
This will be Philippe by Philippe Chow’s southern flagship in the United States, following its Washington DC Wharf outpost opening in April of 2023, along with a downtown Nashville location targeted for a 2024 Q1 opening. In addition to the US expansion, the Middle East expansion continues, in addition to a multi-unit agreement in KSA, a new agreement in Kuwait City has been signed, and discussions are proceeding in Egypt and Dubai.
With nearly two decades of storied history, the Chinese eatery is a carefully crafted offering where substance drives notoriety. Meticulously designed signature dishes are infused with the flavor of Chow’s upbringing and made with the freshest ingredients, including the legendary Peking Duck, carved tableside for an unparalleled experience.
Black Lion was represented by Fabio Faerman and Sebastian Faerman with FA Commercial, while Philippe Chow was represented by Jeremy Modest and Ryan Tucker of RIPCO Real Estate.
“We were thrilled to work with Phillipe Chow to support the company’s expansion to South Florida. The Miami market continues to showcase strength and remains an attractive location for world class operators,” said Jeremy Modest, Executive Managing Director at RIPCO Real Estate. Our goal at RIPCO Florida is to help guide the best tenants New York City has to offer down to Florida by focusing on finding excellent locations and the right Landlord’s to partner with which was demonstrated in our work with Philippe Chow.
Specializing in ownership of flagship restaurant properties, Rivani’s vision for Black Lion’s transformative “Restaurant Row” along South Pointe Drive is now complete, with Philippe by Philippe Chow anchoring One Ocean South Beach, Catch Miami Beach opening at the Continuum high-rise this fall, and Marea Condominium’s multi-restaurant space reaching 100% occupancy with Kosushi Miami, a Brazilian-based Michelin Star restaurant; RED, a locals-favorite steakhouse; and a soon-to-be-announced, world-renowned tenant.
Since 2022, Black Lion has secured over $100 million in acquisitions across South Florida with a rapidly expanding portfolio of restaurant/hospitality properties from Miami Beach to Wynwood, Brickell and Downtown – including the space for Gekko by David Grutman x Bad Bunny; Amara at Paraiso with chef Michael Schwartz; Wynwood Jungle with a newly opened Fable rooftop restaurant; the ground floor of Zaha Hadid’s iconic One Thousand Museum; and Delilah at Brickell Bay boardwalk.
Images via @fordofilmz and Philippe by Philippe Chow
Mast Capital and BH Group have announced Raffles Residences Coconut Grove, the brand’s first standalone residential development, with 35 homes from $4.5 million and architecture by Brandon Haw.