The 2026 Pegasus World Cup Celebrates 10 Years as Horse Racing's Hottest Event As It Returns To Gulfstream Park

Marking a decade as one of the most influential events in horse racing, the Pegasus World Cup returns to Gulfstream Park on Saturday, January 24, 2026, for its 10-year anniversary celebration. Since its debut, Pegasus World Cup has redefined the sport, blending elite Thoroughbred competition with music, culture, style, and fashion on an international stage. 1/ST will deliver its signature entertainment experience through a renewed partnership with David Grutman’s Groot Hospitality, offering next-level hospitality in the Flamingo Room and will treat guests to a reimagined set by Empire Of The Sun following the races. Groot Hospitality and Palm Tree Crew collaborate once again for the new Pegasus Fan Zone concept in the Carousel Club, unveiling a high-energy entertainment lineup headlined by DJ duo Two Friends.

The 2026 Pegasus World Cup will feature the $3 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational (GI), the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Championship Turf Invitational (GI) and the $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf Invitational (GII) as part of the total $5.7 million on the line in race day purses.

“The Pegasus World Cup was created to introduce a new, meaningful event to the Thoroughbred horse racing calendar. Ten years in, it is recognized as one of the most anticipated and exciting events in the sport. Thank you to the horsemen and women, long-standing partners like Groot Hospitality and Palm Tree Crew, sponsors, enthusiastic fans and guests, and the South Florida community for your part in helping 1/ST reach this milestone moment.” - Belinda Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, 1/ST

Reimagined for the 10th anniversary, the Flamingo Room remains a centerpiece of the Pegasus World Cup. The exclusive space offers sweeping, bird’s-eye views of the track, enhanced culinary programming, and entertainment offerings. Guests will experience a bespoke menu curated by Groot Hospitality concepts Gekkō, Komodo, Papi Steak and Casadonna. Live performances by Brian Newman, Grammy-Winning Producer, Creative & Musical Director, trumpetist and vocalist, and an exclusive, tailored DJ and vocal set by Empire Of The Sun will amplify the experience for guests in the Flamingo Room and private suites.

Groot Hospitality and Palm Tree Crew will collaborate for the Pegasus Fan Zone, located in Gulfstream Park’s Carousel Club. Hosted by Griffin Johnson, the space will deliver hospitality, culinary selections, wagering contests, and partner activations, alongside a lineup of race-day performances curated by Palm Tree Crew, including world-renowned DJs Two Friends, Ruckus, Rae Sada, and more. The Pegasus Fan Zone will also feature the Carousel Club VIP Garden, inclusive of beverages, food by Groot Hospitality, and on-the-rail homestretch views of the horses as they thunder toward the finish line.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Belinda and the entire 1/ST team to deliver an incredible experience at the Pegasus World Cup this year.” - Myles Shear, Co-Founder of Palm Tree Crew

Beyond the track, the celebration continues at Miami’s iconic LIV Nightclub for the official Pegasus World Cup after-party headlined by Frank Walker and ARTY.

“Groot Hospitality has been proud to support the Pegasus World Cup from day one, and celebrating its ten-year milestone is special. This year we’re bringing our best in dining and entertainment to every part of the experience, from the Flamingo Room and Carousel Club VIP Garden, to the official after-party at LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach with Frank Walker, all in support of making Pegasus the hottest day in horse racing.” - David Grutman, Founder of Groot Hospitality

The 2026 Pegasus World Cup includes an outstanding roster of premier partners, each bringing distinct experiences and on-site activations to the event. Anheuser-Busch, marking the first year of a new three-year partnership with Pegasus World Cup, will activate a full-service Stella Artois–branded Airstream bar on the trackside apron, while NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer will activate throughout Carousel Club and the apron. Don Julio Tequila will be featured as the base spirit in the event’s signature cocktail, The Pegasus Paloma. Complementing the cocktail moment, Don Julio will also spotlight its Don Julio 70® Cristalino Tequila, underscoring the brand’s premium positioning within the event. Brown-Forman expands its footprint with Woodford Reserve, co-creating a signature cocktail and offering roving bourbon tastings, while Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey brings a branded activation to the trackside apron. CELSIUS® will energize the Pegasus Fan Zone with a high-impact presence anchored by a custom photo moment. Champagne Pommery is the official champagne of the event and will present the Winner’s Circle toast to the winning connections following each race. Pepsi also joins the program with a sponsored race, while Visit Lauderdale continues as the official tourism partner, highlighting the diverse offerings of Greater Fort Lauderdale through custom content, impactful signage, and on-site visibility.

Baccarat will return as the Official Trophy Purveyor for the 2026 Pegasus World Cup championship trophies. The rearing Pegase (French for ‘Pegasus’) Horses, crafted from the crystal of unparalleled purity, stand over twenty inches tall and symbolize the time-honored dedication to craftsmanship shared by Baccarat with the sport of horse racing. The limited-production Pegase Horse in Black, valued at $57,000, will be presented to the Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner, and the Pegase Horse in Clear, valued at $50,000, will be presented to the Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational winner.

Tickets for the 2026 Pegasus World Cup range in price from $135 to $2,300, with unparalleled entertainment and incredible views of the action throughout the venue at every ticket level. Individual VIP ticket offerings include Clubhouse options (starting at $135), the Pegasus Fan Zone ($234), Carousel Club VIP Garden ($1,039), and Ten Palms (starting at $668).

For the ultimate VIP experience, a limited number of Private Suites (with terraces overlooking the track) are available. The Flamingo Room is sold out.

Among the general admission offerings is the Casadonna Finish Line Terrace, located on Level 1. This experience gives guests access to the Breezeway, Trackside Apron, Walking Ring, and Casino, along with live DJs, concessions, and multiple bars. The ticket includes a sponsored open bar for guests 21+ by Stella Artois and NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer.

1/ST BET, the official betting app of the 2026 Pegasus World Cup, will provide an exclusive wagering offering to all attendees. Through advanced AI technology, the 1/ST BET app is designed to make betting more accessible, easy to understand, and fun for first-time wagerers and advanced handicappers alike.

The Pegasus World Cup has captured the attention of the racing industry, fans, and celebrities, including Camila Cabello, Alix Earle, Rick Ross, Anuel AA, Jennifer Lopez, Gene Simmons, Lenny Kravitz, Pharrell Williams, Usher, Vanessa Hudgens, Vin Diesel, Maluma and Venus Williams, to name just a few. Pegasus World Cup guests have enjoyed post-race performances by Diplo, Black Coffee and Dasha (2025); Calvin Harris (2024); Joe Jonas, OneRepublic and Kygo (2023); Lil’ Kim, Ja Rule, Mase, El Debarge and DJ Cassidy (2022); Nelly and T-Pain (2020); Snoop Dogg and Mark Ronson (2019); Post Malone (2018); and Thomas Rhett (2017).

The Pegasus World Cup Championship Invitational Series has welcomed legendary Thoroughbred racehorses, including Arrogate (Longines World’s Best Racehorse 2016 and 2017 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), California Chrome (two-time American Horse of the Year 2014 & 2016 and 2017 Pegasus World Cup Invitational contender), Gun Runner (American Horse of the Year 2017 and 2018 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), City of Light (2019 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), Mucho Gusto (2020 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), Knicks Go (2021 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), Life Is Good (2022 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), Art Collector (2023 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), National Treasure (2024 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner), Mystik Dan (2024 Kentucky Derby winner and 2025 Pegasus World Cup Invitational contender), and White Abarrio (2025 Pegasus World Cup Invitational winner).

The 2026 Pegasus World Cup will be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock on Saturday, January 24 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. EST, with full-day coverage available on FanDuel TV. The event will also be distributed globally in partnership with HBA Media.

Images via Pegasus World Cup

Past PROFILE articles about Pegasus World Cup:

David Grutman Lists One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid Condo For $7.2 Million

David Grutman, the founder of LIV Nightclub at Fontainebleau Miami Beach and Groot Hospitality, the brand behind Miami hotspots Komodo, Casadonna, Papi Steak, Gekko and Swan restaurants, and his fashion/jewelry-designer wife Isabela Grutman, have listed their condo at One Thousand Museum by Zaha Hadid for $7.2 Million with Dina Goldentayer of Douglas Elliman. One Thousand Museum is one of the most ultra-luxury condo towers in Miami, complete with a helipad. The iconic tower overlooks Museum Park and was designed by the late starchitect Zaha Hadid. Grutman also recently opened his LIV, Komodo and Papi Steak concepts in Las Vegas.

The residence spans 4,600-square feet of interior space with four spacious suites and five bathrooms. The residence is the epitome of refinement with wide hallways offering walls fit to display museum quality art. The residence opens to an expansive East-facing salon with panoramic views to Biscayne Bay and city vistas. The expansive 48-foot long social lounge offers bayfront dining, multiple sitting areas, and a sleek Poliform kitchen with Gaggenau appliances. The primary features a coffee bar and vanity along with a private sunset terrace.

One Thousand Museum building amenities for residents include a rooftop helipad, double-height space at the top of the tower encompassing both the pool and a stylish seating area, an Escalade house car, a full two-room treatment spa, a hair and beauty salon, an acai and juice bar, a sunbathing area and more. Per public record, past and current residents are reported to be David and Victoria Beckham, Marc Anthony, Loren Ridinger, and Sela Ann Ward.

1000 Biscayne Blvd, 1702 is listed for $7.2 Million by Dina Goldentayer with Douglas Elliman.

Images via Become Legendary / Dina Goldentayer

Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality Set To Open Ken Fulk-Designed 'Casadonna' On The Biscayne Bay Waterfront in Edgewater

Casadonna, a first-of-its-kind partnership between Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality, is set to open its doors in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood alongside Biscayne Bay on October 26. The ultra-luxurious Ken Fulk-designed waterfront destination spans 20,000 square feet across indoor, outdoor and bar seating, matching a sophisticated, storied atmosphere and an expansive, inventive menu designed around coastal Italian cuisine.

Accommodating up to 366 patrons, Casadonna’s Riviera-style Italian cooking takes center stage as the gentle teal of Biscayne Bay, and Miami Beach’s iconic skyline, shimmers in the backdrop. The menu features the freshest local and imported-from-Italy ingredients, with signature dishes including Crispy Young Artichoke, Royal Dorade Aqua Pazza, Bistecca Fiorentina, and a selection of handmade pastas including Campanelle Bolognese, and more. Recipes are based on classic culinary techniques found in seaside towns such as Naples, Taormina, Bari, Positano and Gaeta, yet each is presented in a contemporary and global fashion. A comprehensive crudo bar including Langoustine Ceviche, Tuna Carpaccio and Caviar elevates the aperitivo offering in tandem with traditional antipasti starters. Bespoke cocktails and an extensively curated wine cellar complete the spirit of seaside dolce vita.

“Casadonna is unlike anything we’ve ever done before,” says David Grutman, Founderof Groot Hospitality. “In partnering with Tao, I cannot wait to see our synergies take hold and for our guests to experience the unique magic we’ve created. From the fresh Italian menu to its unbeatable waterfront views, we see Casadonna bringing something new to Miami dining–and we know it will be unforgettable.”

“This is our first foray into the Miami market,” says Noah Tepperberg, Co-CEO of Tao Group Hospitality. “It’s an honor to be in such an important landmark within the city, and it’s exciting to have partnered with Groot Hospitality on this venture. David and his team know Miami deeply, and with our combined strengths, I have no doubt Casadonna is going to become an instant classic.”

Located in a waterfront landmark building that houses the Miami Women’s Club, Casadonna’s name pays homage to the restaurant’s site. The moniker’s compound elements–“casa” and “donna”– translate from Italian to English as “home” and “woman.” While the Miami Women’s Club was founded in 1900–making it one of the oldest formal organizations in the city–the current Mediterranean-revival structure opened in 1926, and was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The Miami Women’s Club has been instrumental in supporting educational programs and promoting community stewardship in and around the Magic City. Its members have also helped with state-shaping policy and activism. Among their most notable achievements: The Miami Women’s Club took a prominent role in the founding of the State Federation Royal Palm Park. The Royal Palm would evolve and be absorbed into none other than what is now Everglades National Park.

“We delved deep into the history of Miami architecture and this building, and we landed on a shared vision that added the grandeur of nearby Vizcaya and the exotic allure of the Long Bar at Raffles in Singapore,” says designer Ken Fulk. “We then inserted modern luxuries and really leaned into a slow reveal of spaces, which is a hallmark of the Groot and Tao experiences.”

Spearheaded by Fulk in collaboration with Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality, Casadonna’s visual realization provides a highly transportive experience. A double-height Courtyard Bar welcomes guests–this stands in the building’s original atrium. Lush flora and a retractable roof give the space the feeling of a grand secret garden, replete with arched windows, open sky exposure and a second story arcade. As guests move further into the restaurant, with Biscayne Bay coming into view, a number of distinct chambers unfold, from The Garden Dining Room, which is designed to feel like a classic, plaster-finished conservatory, to the Loggia Dining Room, which boasts parquet wood floors, a coffered ceiling, detailed millwork, custom blown-glass chandeliers and breathtaking views of the Bay through the building’s original windows. The experience concludes at the Ocean Bar, which is composed of intimate lounges and al fresco dining areas that span the length of the bay-facing terrace. As guests move through this progression of rooms, the seductive waterfront views become more and more pronounced.

Casadonna will be open for dinner on Thursday, October 26th and for weekend brunch beginning on Saturday, November 11th 2023.

Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality To Bring Coastal Italian-Inspired Concept 'Casadonna' To Edgewater's Historic Women's Club Building

The historic Miami Women’s Club in Edgewater is set to be transformed with the opening of Casadonna, a Coastal Italian-inspired restaurant developed in partnership between Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality. The restaurant is slated to open Summer 2023 in the waterfront Mediterranean revival historic Women’s Club building, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The name "Casadonna" is derived from the setting, a fusion of Italian words translating to "house of the woman." The restaurant represents the first partnership between hospitality and entertainment powerhouses the Miami-based Groot Hospitality, led by David Grutman, and the New York City-based Tao Group Hospitality, led by Jason Strauss.

Riviera-style Italian cooking serves as the heart of Casadonna's cuisine. The menu will feature the freshest and finest local and imported products, with signature handcrafted dishes. Plates are based around traditional recipes found in the coastal towns of Naples, Taormina, Bari, Positano and Gaeta, and each is presented in a contemporary fashion. Bespoke cocktails and an extensive wine list complement this approach.

Casadonna will seat up to 366 guests in both indoor and outdoor dining and bar areas, all of which have been visualized by the designer Ken Fulk. The atmosphere is lush, leafy, stately and golden, conveying both a nod to the site's legacy as the Women's Club building, and a reflection of modern Miami tastes. Design highlights include a tranquil indoor-outdoor flow featuring a covered, high-ceilinged atrium, iconic paned and vaulted glass windows, original gates, elaborate chandeliers and distinctive floor patterning.

Tao Group Hospitality delivers distinctive culinary and premium entertainment experiences through its portfolio of restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and daylife venues. Tao Group Hospitality acquired Hakkasan Group in April 2021. The combined company operates more than 70 branded locations in over 20 markets across five continents and features a collection of widely recognized hospitality brands. These include TAO, Hakkasan, OMNIA, Marquee, LAVO, Beauty & Essex, Wet Republic, Yauatcha, Ling Ling, Cathédrale, Little Sister, The Highlight Room, Sake No Hana, Jewel, and more. Tao Group Hospitality is part of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) (NYSE: MSGE), a leader in live experiences.

Groot Hospitality was officially formed in 2018 by David Grutman and is a Miami Beach-based collective of top restaurants, bars, cafés, nightlife ventures and hotels. Groot Hospitality’s portfolio includes The Goodtime Hotel, the nightclubs LIV and STORY, the restaurants Gekkō, Komodo, The Key Club, Papi Steak, Strawberry Moon and Swan. At both the Goodtime Hotel and Swan, Grutman is partners with the multi-hyphenate musician and producer Pharrell Williams and the pair will also open their first resort, Somewhere Else on Atlantis Paradise Island, in 2024. Grutman is also partners with the recording artist and actor Bad Bunny on Gekkō.

The Chetrit Group Announces Kobi Karp-Designed The River District In Brickell With New Concepts From David Grutman

As Miami’s bustling Brickell neighborhood evolves into one of the nation’s most desirable urban cores, New York-based developer Chetrit Group has announced a transformative new district designed by Kobi Karp that will reimagine over six acres of the Miami River’s waterfront into a premier destination for art, entertainment, music, and culture. The River District, located at the long-underutilized delta between I-95, Southwest Second Avenue and Jose Marti Park, brings high-end living, working, dining, shopping and yachting to the area with four distinct, brand-new skyscrapers, a pair of two-story waterfront retail buildings, a marina and lush new streetscapes inspired by Brazil’s tropical modernism aesthetic. The first tower is already rising and can be seen on the Miami River from I-95 west of Brickell.

Situated just south of the Miami River, The River District will comprise of 4 million square feet of new development in all. This includes about 1,600 residences, Class A office space, 30,000 square feet of curated retail, a boat marina that can accommodate 60-foot vessels, 2,000 covered parking spots, as well as vibrant restaurants and nightlife venues. The first building to come to market at The River District will be its luxury condominium. Expected to launch in early 2023, sales and marketing will be exclusively handled by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing.

“The Miami River has been ripe for a new archetype of riverfront living, especially as the Brickell neighborhood continues to attract national companies and new residents to its urban core,” said Michael Chetrit of Chetrit Group. “With demand for new, curated experiences walkable from Brickell Avenue at an all-time high, we are excited to introduce a ground-up new neighborhood that builds and honors community, with a Brazilian twist. The River District is going to create a riverwalk experience for the first time in the city, and we expect to completely transform how people in the area live, work and play.”

To elevate the standard of hospitality, Chetrit Group partnered with David Grutman of Groot Hospitality – the globally renowned nightlife and hospitality visionary behind the goodtime hotel, nightclubs LIV and Story and restaurants Gekkō, Papi Steak, Swan and Komodo, among more – to deliver innovative new culinary and residential concepts exclusively to the ambitious master planned development. Through a lens of lavish design, in-demand talent and a frisson of celebrity and social media moments, Grutman is known for reestablishing Miami as a global contemporary hotspot for hospitality and aims to infuse this same spirit throughout The River District.

"The River District is going to be a highlight in Miami city's ongoing transformation," said David Grutman. "Paired with Chetrit Group's overall vision, I'm incredibly excited to bring Groot Hospitality to this game-changing development. We plan to feature versions of our existing concepts as well as all new ideas, across residential, restaurant and entertainment spaces."

The four skyscrapers at The River District – a luxury condominium, office tower and two premier rental buildings – are each distinguished by their own, unique interpretation of the Brazilian tropical modernism motif. This design vision, a hallmark of the vibrant culture at The River District, will be spearheaded by leading local architecture firm Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design. Having helped shape many of Miami’s most exclusive neighborhoods, from Fisher Island to Surfside, Kobi Karp is the top architect for transformative projects of The River District’s scale and level of importance. He is responsible for creating the master plan for the site, as well as the architecture, which together are reminiscent of the beachfront walkways of Rio de Janeiro.

For the interiors, Chetrit Group tapped New York-based, award-winning architecture and design firm Rockwell Group. Rockwell Group is known for creating unique narratives for award-winning projects across the globe, which range from restaurants, hotels, airport terminals, and hospitals, to festivals, museum exhibitions, and Broadway sets. Projects include multiple Oscar award ceremony production designs; Nobu hotels and restaurants worldwide; Equinox Hotel New York; restaurants like Katsuya and Peak in New York and Gekkō and CHICA in Miami; set designs for Broadway shows, such as Hairspray and Kinky Boots; and many more. Rockwell Group will design the condominium tower, including the lobby, amenity spaces and 378 studios to three bedroom residences. Rockwell Group and IDDI, an international design firm, will envision the rental tower, where Rockwell Group is designing the lobby and restaurant.

Representing the first master-planned project developed by Chetrit Group in South Florida, The River District will showcase the company’s level of focus and expertise delivering large-scale real estate developments. Construction will be completed in phases, with phase one currently underway. That includes the first rental tower, as well as the two retail buildings. The next phase will begin with the groundbreaking of the luxury condominium, which is slated for early 2023 with a target completion in 2026.

Renderings via JORG and Kobi Karp Architecture & Interior Design

The Coconut Grove Restaurant Scene Is Buzzing Amid New Restaurant Openings Including A New Concept From David Grutman

Coconut Grove is alive and buzzing amid a variety of new restaurant opens that are bringing one of Miami’s most historic and beautiful neighborhoods back into its heyday. In December Major Food Group opened Sadelle’s, a breakfast-centric haven, power-lunch hotspot, and energetic dinner destination located in Park Grove at the former Tigertail + Mary space. Nearby, reclaiming its role as the epicenter of Miami’s Coconut Grove commercial district, the newly redeveloped CocoWalk is now 100% leased with the announcement of the new openings including The Key Club from David Grutman’s Groot Hospitality and a new concept from Ariete Hospitality.

The Key Club, which is set to open at CocoWalk in the upcoming weeks, is an energetic American grill. It’s menu will feature items such as seafood, steaks, salads and will offer a sushi component with an upbeat, party atmosphere. The restaurant is designed with nautical and nature vibes with indoor and outdoor seating. They are currently hiring for management, FOH and BOH positions. Groot Hospitality is the restaurant group behind Swan, Papi Steak, and Komodo, as well as nightlife destinations such as LIV.

Other recent openings include modern American restaurant Botánico Gin & Cookhouse, which opened in November, and Duck N’ Sum, a modern Asian restaurant serving classic flavors such as steamed bao buns and garlic noodles. Then, in December, Sushi Garage unveiled its unique culinary experience inspired by classic Japanese flavors created by Executive Chef Sunny Oh.

Ariete Hospitality Group, the culinary creators behind some of Coconut Grove’s most popular restaurants such as Ariete, Navé and Chug’s, will also open a new restaurant on property this year. Set to open in spring 2022 is Narbona Natural Foods & Farm Market, the 8,253-square-foot specialty market that will feature a butcher shop, fresh pastas, and a bakery along with a selection of gourmet cheeses, craft beers, wines, and coffees – all produced on its farms in South America. This will become Narbona’s second location to open in South Florida.

In addition to the new and exciting dining concepts, world-class cinema Cinépolis makes its highly anticipated debut with the opening of a brand-new movie theater this winter, marking the return of the neighborhood’s only movie theater.

“Our goal with the newly renovated CocoWalk is to reinvigorate the lifestyle destination and offer a more curated experience to those who live, work, and play in Coconut Grove,” said Michael Comras, CEO and President of The Comras Company. “The return of Cinepolis, the top shops already open and our upcoming restaurant debuts by several of Miami’s leading hospitality groups will further enhance the lifestyle, dining and shopping experience the new CocoWalk has to offer.”

The new restaurants join an already impressive and extensive line-up of curated national, regional and local concepts currently open at CocoWalk such as PLANTA Queen, Mister 01 Extraordinary Pizza, Sweetgreen and ice cream outpost Salt & Straw.

Images via CocoWalk

PROFILEmiami And Foodgod's Insiders Guide To Where To Eat Miami Art Week And Art Basel 2021

Following a lost year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Miami Art Week and Art Basel return to Miami to light-up the city and kick off the 2021 holiday season. Starting November 30th and running through the first week of December, Miami Art Week attracts millions of visitors from across the globe to Miami’s sunny beach’s and luxurious enclaves for a celebration of art, design, fashion, style and culture. Miami Art Week brings together some of the world’s best artists, galleries, art collectors, designers and cultural icons for a week of art shows, installations, events and lavish parties. PROFILEmiami is bringing our readers and in-depth Insiders Guide to Miami Art Week and Art Basel 2021 with a curated list of must-attend art shows, installations and events throughout the week.

PROFILEmiami has teamed up with Foodgod, whose new self-titled show Foodgod just went live on Discovery+, to bring you the Top 10 restaurants to score a reservation at during Miami Art Week 2021. 2021 has seen Miami’s restaurant and dining scene dramatically change, giving visitors and locals alike a plethora of new options to choose from with everything from lavish fine-dining to high-energy dinner parties you will not want to miss. Major Food Group entered Miami earlier this year, opening a Miami outpost of the NYC Michelin Star-winning Italian American concept Carbone and later ZZ’s Club and HaSalon, both of which made our list. Miami-based restauranteur David Grutman’s high-energy, celeb-studded concepts Komodo and Papi Steak, both Miami-staples, made the cut as well as A-Lister-staples Cipriani and Mr. Chow. Casual outposts such as the iconic Miami pizza joint Steve’s Pizza and the newly opened Oasis Wynwood offer incredible food without the need to dress-up or race for a reservation between hitting all the art shows and events. One thing is for sure, make sure to make your reservations early as the energy for Miami Art Week has never been higher. Our Insiders Guide will help you plan your week so you don’t miss out on anything.

1. HaSalon (Miami Beach)

Address: 404 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach

Just in time for Miami Art Week Major Food Group opened a Miami Beach outpost of HaSalon, the renowned Israeli restaurant originally founded in Tel Aviv. The Miami location will showcase the theatrics and widely acclaimed Israeli cuisine that have come to define the HaSalon brand at its outposts in Tel Aviv, New York City, and Ibiza. The HaSalon team works from an open kitchen decorated with a bounty of ingredients—a HaSalon signature, where they prepare bright salads, vibrant vegetable dishes, satisfying pastas, as well as show-stopping courses meant for sharing, such as many whole fish preparations, giant lamb kebabs, and steaks. Menu selections will change according to the seasons and the restaurant’s restless creativity, but their famous emphasis on generosity and bold flavors will remain constant. HaSalon is an extremely high-energy, vibrant dinner party you do not want to miss.

2. Papi Steak (South Beach)

Address: 736 1st Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139

David Grutman’s Papi Steak concept fuses Golden Era Hollywood swagger with modern day Miami energy to create an entirely new steakhouse experience. The restaurant, which is located in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, serves elevated contemporary twists on classic chophouse dishes. This includes its namesake: the Papi Steak, which is a Tomahawk-cut named in honor of David “Papi” Einhorn, a partner in the restaurant with David Grutman and Groot Hospitality. Einhorn is a grilling fanatic, and his special preparation (secret sauce included) is the restaurant’s flagship plate. The Papi Steak can also be ordered in a Beef Case: Inquire within. At only 93 seats, Papi Steak is an intimate but high-octane destination. A full bar and custom cocktail program are also included, while DJ’s spin until the early hours. With Grutman’s eye for unique experiences that fuse dining and design and Einhorn’s penchant for great steak, and equally great indulgence, Papi Steak promises the ultimate in a hedonistic night out.

3. Cipriani Downtown Miami (Brickell)

Address: Icon Brickell, 465 Brickell Avenue, Miami, Florida 33131

Located on the south side of the Miami river in Downtown northern Financial District, the restaurant offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and a chic nautical aesthetic inspired by the waterfront setting. Since opening in 2013, Cipriani has been one of the hottest restaurants in Miami, helping transform Brickell from “no man’s land” to a cultural hotspot. On any given night you will find Cirpriani bustling with action, full of high-energy and high-fashion. Meals are served family style and the staff’s attention to detail is unmatched. Must-try dishes include the Rigatoni Bolognese, Veal Milanese and obviously you must order their signature Bellini.

4. Mr. Chow (South Beach)

Address: W South Beach, 2201 Collins Ave. Miami Beach

Located in W South Beach, which is one of the hottest hotels during Miami Art Week, Mr. Chow is a staple in Miami for high-end dining. The high-energy restaurant caters to a high-end international clientele and features a 123’ gold-leaf and Swarovski crystal chandelier designed by Michael Chow. Opened in 2009, Mr. Chow continues to remain one of the city’s hottest restaurants. Mr. Chow’s menu is a combination of old authentic Beijing & Original Recipes. Staples include the Chicken Satay, Mr. Chow Noodles & Ma Mignon and the world-famous Beijing Duck.

5. COTE (Miami Design District)

Address: Miami Design District, 3900 NE 2nd Ave., Miami, FL 33137

COTE, the Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-nominated Korean Steakhouse™ by Chef Simon Kim, is located in Miami Design District and has been a hotspot since opening earlier this year. COTE’s menu includes 45-day, dry-aged beef which is prepared at the table on the smokeless grills. The menu also includes the highest grade of prime cuts and American wagyu that is dry-aged in the restaurant’s on-site red light dry-aging room. Meats are seasoned with COTE’s Signature Gastronome’s Salt, a proprietary salt blend composed of British Maldon salt, Himalayan pink salt, and Korean thousand-day sea salt. COTE also offers two tasting menus, The Butcher’s Feast® and a 10-course Steak Omakase™. COTE also offers an award winning beverage program curated by James Beard Award-nominated beverage director Victoria James and master sommelier Mia van de Water.

6. Komodo (Brickell)

Address: 801 Brickell Ave Miami, FL 33131

From local hospitality entrepreneur David Grutman, Komodo is one of the most high-energy and most popular restaurants in Miami. Komodo connects the heart of Miami’s vibrant Brickell neighborhood with the regional flavors⁠ and flair⁠ of Southeast Asia. With an inviting indoor-outdoor flow—which carries patrons from a sleek wood-paneled interior to a lush and tropical covered terrace—the restaurant spans 3 stories and features 300 tabletop, booth, and bar seats. Outside, floating aeries provide additional intimate dining spaces. Komodo’s menu offers delicious takes on Southeast Asian dishes, all of which have been developed and interpreted with a global approach. The result is a unique dining experience, ranging from regularly rotating specials to house favorites such as Salmon Tacos, Miso Chilean Seabass Skewers, Peking Duck, and Daring Plant Based Kung Pao Chicken. A full sushi bar is also included, while bespoke custom cocktails—such as the Szechuan Old Fashioned or the Shizo Fly—bring lively and exclusive beverage options. Celebrities and A-Listers such as Dwayne Wade and other Miami Heat players frequent Komodo, which is sucre to be a high-energy and unforgettable experience.

7. ZZ’s Club (Miami Design District)

Address: Miami Design District, 151 NE 41st St., Miami

Coming off the heels of the opening of Carbone Miami in the South of Fifth neighborhood, critically acclaimed global restaurant company, Major Food Group, is continuing to grow their presence in Miami with the recent opening of ZZ’s Club this past April. Located in the heart of the Miami Design District, ZZ’s Club is a Japanese restaurant and membership club, presided over by Masa Ito and Kevin Kim, two of New York City's most revered and beloved sushi chefs.

While the intimate counter offers a traditional omakase experience, the adjacent dining room is a modern Japanese restaurant with an extended à la carte offering. The menu in these spaces features a range of raw and cooked dishes, highlighting seafood sourced from Tokyo, and the largest offering of Wagyu beef in South Florida, if not the entire United States. ZZ’s is licensed to carry true Kobe beef, which the restaurant presents in a variety of styles, from steaks cooked over custom-built charcoal grills to an indulgent Wagyu Katsu Sando with truffles. Behind the restaurant’s staple sushi counter, Ito and Kim prepare inventive rolls, signature Caviar Temaki, and nigiri and sashimi by the piece. The menu also spotlights a selection of ZZ’s classics—from the brioche toast topped with trout roe and truffle honey to the tuna carpaccio with foie gras and scallop—as well as dishes developed specifically for Miami: Steamed Lobster Dumplings; Stone Crab Sunomono; Chilled Yuzu Asparagus; Line-Caught Crispy Snapper; and Teppan-fried rice. John Slover’s wine list is geared equally towards sushi and meat: an ample cellar of champagne, white Burgundy, and Spanish whites, as well as robust reds from Bordeaux and California. One particular highlight is a program of large-format bottles. And the dessert menu from celebrated pastry chef Stephanie Prida features Japanese Ice Cream Sandwiches, Chocolate Matcha Bombs, and a stellar Key Lime Pie. ZZ’s Club offers cuisine of the highest caliber, personalized hospitality, and unmatched amenities.

8. Sexy Fish (Brickell)

Address: 736 1st Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Brickell is getting another celebrity-magnet hotspot as the London-based Sexy Fish from restauranteur Richard Caring is gearing up to open their first US location in Brickell Flatiron. The lavish restaurant was designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and will feature ten artworks by Damien Hirst valued at over $20 million and an installation by Frank Gehry featuring of 26 fish lamps, a ceiling adorned with gold, and a fish tank filled with live coral and a colorful tropical fish. The high-octane restaurant will bring a signature program of entertainment to Brickell including world-class performers, dancers and DJs. Sexy Fish will serve a Japanese-influenced menu created by chef Bjoern Weissgerber, as well as offer the largest selection of Dom Perignon in the United States. Popular dishes from Sexy Fish’s original location include duck salad, vegetarian sushi, smoked tuna belly, crispy eringi mushroom, black cod, king crab, bone marrow and cheesecake.

9. Steve’s Pizza

Address: 12101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33181

Steve’s Pizza is one of those places that you need to be a true Miami local to know. The traditional counter-service joint serves saucy NYC-style pizza and Italian basics in tiny digs with graffitied wooden booths, polaroids of customers on the walls and a vintage arcade game in the corner. Established in 1974, the family owned and operated pizzeria is located US-1 near North Miami Beach and Bal Harbour. Steve’s Pizza serves New York style pizza by the pie or as fresh slices, hoagies, chicken wings, and is open late as well as offers delivery. If you are looking for some of the best pizza in Miami or an incredible fast-casual meal, Steve’s Pizza is a can’t miss Miami staple.

10. Oasis Wynwood (Wynwood)

Address: 2335 N Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127

The recently opened Oasis Wynwood is a casual indoor/outdoor hotspot to check-out if you are in the mood for a casual meal in an energetic setting with true Wynwood vibes. Oasis Wynwood offers six restaurants to choose from and an iconic 75’ tall “Tower Bar” made out of shipping containers featuring a mural by Antonio Marest. The restaurants include Mr. Mandolin (Mediterranean), Prince Street Pizza, Los Buenos (taqueria), Alidoro (Italian), Buya Dumplings + Buns (Asian street food), and Chikin (crispy chicken concept). There is also be an indoor/outdoor cocktail lounge and nightclub named Huacachina inspired by Huacachina, Peru. The Oasis also features a selection of retail space, art studios, cafes and an outdoor stage for live performance. Whether you want to enjoy a fast-casual meal, a relaxing drink or just immerse yourself in the Wynwood lifestyle, check-out Oasis Wynwood.

About Foodgod:

Foodgod is a lifelong foodie who has gained 11 million followers for his unique celebration of all things food on social media and in his self-titled discovery+ series, he takes his obsession to the next level in search of the boldest, craziest and most exclusive restaurants and dishes, along with the creative geniuses behind them. In the four-episode season of Foodgod, he visits hotspots in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas and Miami accompanied by celebrity pals, including series executive producer Kris Jenner. The full season of Foodgod went live Sunday, November 14th on discovery+.

TV personality and social media star Foodgod got his name from his A-list palate of all things culinary and boasts an Instagram following of millions that track his food adventures around the globe. Widely known for his recurring roles on television, particularly Keeping Up with The Kardashians, Foodgod is now the biggest food influencer and has the decadent diet to prove it. Recently honored for the second time, Foodgod was named the 2021 “Food Influencer Of The Year” (Monaco) and also “Most Influential Name in Food” by Food & Beverage Magazine. He hasappeared on the cover of The Los Angeles Times announcing his rise to a dining deity. Known on the Dr. Oz show as their “food contributor,” Foodgod is the first to find the latest and greatest in food trends across the world. His delicious snaps of favorite foodie spots from New York and Los Angeles to Iceland and beyond garner major attention as he dines, drinks and globe trots with celebrities, chefs and restaurant entrepreneurs. He even has his notorious moniker inked on his arm. He has also appeared on hit TV shows like The Spin Crowd and Celebrity Big Brother and is a regular personality in the media for his international taste and style.

On social platforms, use hashtag #Foodgod to go behind the scenes with Foodgod and his guests, and relive the most hilarious, most shocking moments from his epic travels.

By FoodGod, Demetri Demascus & Katya Demina

Five New Wellness And Beauty Retailers Sign Leases At CocoWalk In Coconut Grove

Five new retailers focused on health, wellness, and beauty have signed leases at CocoWalk, the newly reopened lifestyle destination in Coconut Grove. Inspired by residents’ focus on health and wellness, the ownership hand-picked these new retailers to cater to all the lifestyle and beauty needs of area residents and the surrounding communities.

The latest brands to sign retail leases are GlossLab, a hygiene-first, membership based nail studio from New York that is opening its first Miami location and has hospitality entrepreneur David Grutman as one of its investors set to open in summer 2022; Antidote Wellness Labs, a boutique fitness studio that focuses on High Intensity Interval Training, nutrition, and holistic wellness;  chic jewelry brand hailing from Saint-Tropez, Gas Bijoux; Skin Lab by Barba Skin Clinic founded by Harvard-educated dermatologist Dr. Alicia Barba, who has partnered with Skinceuticals; and 3D Brow Studio, specializing in curating perfect eyebrows.

Antidote Wellness Labs will occupy about 2,577 SF on the second floor, accompanied by Barba Skin Clinic with about 2,181 SF and 3D Brow Studio with 1,062 SF. Gas Bijoux will be located on the first floor with 562 SF facing the open-air plaza.

CocoWalk has several more restaurants nearing opening including the highly anticipated Botanico Gin & Cookhouse, which is slated for opening later this summer. Marking the first establishment in Miami to embrace gin’s international resurgence, Botanico will incorporate modern American cuisine with a bar focused on gin cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine led by Mexican Executive Chef and Co-Owner Gerardo B. De Negri.

Sunset Harbour sushi outpost Sushi Garage is also expected open at CocoWalk this fall. Sushi Garage is owned and operated by The Juvia Group and will honor Japanese traditional cuisine utilizing the freshest ingredients in the setting of a contemporary designed space that will make for a unique dining experience.

Following CocoWalk’s multi-million-dollar renovation, the open-air lifestyle center features 150,000 SF of prime retail space in the heart of Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s premier neighborhoods. The property’s ownership group is comprised of Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE: FRT), The Comras Company and Grass River Property.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome these four new retailers and to increase CocoWalk’s health, wellness, and beauty offerings to the community,” said Michael Comras, CEO and President of The Comras Company. “Our goal with the newly renovated CocoWalk is to reinvigorate the lifestyle destination and offer a more curated experience to those who live, work, and play in Coconut Grove. These brands and our upcoming restaurant openings will further enhance the lifestyle, dining and shopping experience the new CocoWalk has to offer.”

The new retailers join an already impressive line-up of curated national, regional, and local concepts already open on property. Restaurants currently serving up delicious eats at CocoWalk include PLANTA Queen, Mister 01Extraordinary Pizza, Sweetgreen, and Salt & Straw. Businesses currently providing unique retail offerings and other services include Bluemercury, FP Movement, Edward Beiner, Europann, Edite Mode, Late Night Gypsy, The Spot Barbershop, and School of Rock. 

Dave Grutman's Groot Hospitality Files Plans To Bring Restaurant To Edgewater At The Historic Miami Women's Club

Dave Grutman, the founder of LIV Nightclub at Fontainebleau Miami Beach and Groot Hospitality, the brand behind the swanky Komodo, Papi Steak and Swan restaurants, has filed plans to bring a new restaurant to Edgewater at the historic Miami Woman’s Club. The Miami Woman’s Club was first built in 1930 and is being restored with approvals from Miami’s Historic Preservation Board. Groot Hospitality pulled a construction permit which was filed in August to build out the 14,838 SF restaurant. The restaurant will make use of renovating 11,396 SF as well as a 3,442 SF addition via a $6.5 million mortgage issued by Firstbank Puerto Rico. The renovation will include a rooftop lounge and a waterfront dining deck on Biscayne Bay. No restaurant concept has been publicly announced as of yet.