Inside the PROFILEmiami Spec Home & Luxury Real Estate Networking Dinner at Lafayette Steakhouse

On November 6, real estate media powerhouse PROFILEmiami hosted its Spec Home & Luxury Real Estate event at the sophisticated Lafayette Steakhouse in Brickell. The brainchild of Mr. Hospitality and CEO/Founder Mathieu Massa, Lafayette Steakhouse seamlessly blends the nostalgic allure of a classic American steakhouse with the refined atmosphere of a London speakeasy.

Guests networked over custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and gourmet bites by Lafayette Steakhouse, and heard from leading spec home architect Ralph Choeff of Choeff Levy Fischman, powerbrokers Nelson Gonzalez and Dora Puig, top spec home developer Pascal Nicolai of Sabal Development, interior designer Thomas Diverio from Dunagan & Diverio Design Group and spec home developer Mathieu Massa from Massa Construction Group.

Afterwards guests stayed for a three-course networking dinner presented by Title EQ, LUC Electric and Modern Stones, alongside the leaders of the Miami real estate industry. The exclusive chef-curated menu boasted a selection of decadent choices: appetizers like the Prime Beef Filet Carpaccio, Fried Jumbo Shrimp, or Smoked Kurobuta Pork Belly BBQ; mains included a 6-oz Filet Mignon, Lafayette Cheeseburger, or Pan-Seared Striped Bass; and dessert options feature Half-Baked Cookie, America French Toast, or Dulcey Chocolate Popcorn Sensation. This exquisite dinner offered a perfect close to a night of elite networking and culinary delight.

PROFILEconnect brings together Miami’s real estate industry and business professionals to network and connect outside of a business setting. Guests have the opportunity to network and share their experiences in South Florida through thoughtful discourse, while forging new relationships with industry leaders.

Marion Reopens in Brickell with Fresh Look and Expanded Menu

After an extensive summer renovation, Marion, the well-known Miami dining and nightlife venue operated by Mr. Hospitality Miami, has reopened in Brickell. The restaurant now features a new design and an updated menu that blends Asian and Mediterranean influences. The reopening marks a significant milestone for Marion, which has been a part of Miami's dining scene since 2015.

Marion's renovation aims to enhance both its dining and nightlife experience. The updated interior design, crafted by Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma, combines elements of nostalgia and modern luxury. According to Rodriguez, the design reflects Marion’s rich history while introducing contemporary touches to ensure the space feels both familiar and new. Inspired by iconic venues like Studio 54, the refreshed look includes bold colors, custom Murano chandeliers, and an LED-paneled disco ceiling, which enhances the venue's nightlife appeal.

The updated menu, designed by Executive Chef Kylian Goussot, continues to emphasize Asian-Mediterranean flavors with dishes such as Truffle Prime Beef Tartare, Lobster Tempura, and Prime Skirt Steak Tagliata. Executive Sushi Chef Max Kamakura has also introduced a new sushi program, which showcases his expertise in dry-aging techniques and creative presentations.

In addition to the revamped food offerings, Marion has also expanded its beverage options. The new cocktail menu, curated by Corporate Beverage Manager Karol Ansaldi, features drinks inspired by Asian and Mediterranean flavors, including signature cocktails like the Dirty Dancing and Wild Things. The wine program, led by Wine Director Higor Valle, now highlights a variety of prestigious Champagne houses alongside a selection of premium Tequilas.

“The decision to renovate and relaunch Marion is rooted in its legacy as a Miami landmark,” said Mathieu Massa, Founder & CEO of Mr. Hospitality Miami. “For years, Marion has been synonymous with exceptional dining, trendsetting flair, and a premier nightlife destination. This transformation elevates Marion from the ‘It’ girl of Brickell to a sophisticated, graceful icon. This is not just a renovation; it’s a $4,000,000 rebirth—returning to her essence with newfound elegance, ready to enchant our guests anew.”

The renovation also includes the addition of a Dom Pérignon Champagne Display and Tequila Room, which replaces the former wine room. This space offers over 300 premium bottles for guests to explore. Marion is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 7 PM until late, and is located at 1111 SW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33130.

Inside PROFILEconnect: A Royal Retreat - Hospitality Real Estate in Miami at Queen Miami Beach

On May 21 PROFILEmiami hosted the sold-out PROFILEconnect: A Royal Retreat An Exploration into Miami Hospitality Real Estate, bringing together Miami’s hottest hospitality real estate developers, owners and operators for a lavish cocktail, PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded Bespoke Real Estate Networking and panel experience at Mr. Hospitality’s iconic Queen Miami Beach.

The panel explored hospitality real estate in Miami, namely investing in, developing and operating commercial real estate assets with a focus on hospitality including hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, private clubs, golf courses, etc. The panel Miami’s top developers and owners Ronny Finvarb - Finvarb Group, Michael Simkins - E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development, Mathieu Massa - Mr. Hospitality / QUEEN, Alex Witkoff - Witkoff, Robert Rivani - Black Lion Investment Group and moderated by Christian Charre - Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality.

Attendees sipped custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and Esquisito Tequila, plus Bennati Wines and Tripping Animals Brewery, plus indulged in bites of modern Japanese cuisine by Queen’s executive chef Mitchell Hess, while taking in QUEEN’s opulent ambiance, followed by a panel discussion. Attendees included developers Camilo Miguel Jr. Ricardo Dunin, Harvey Hernandez and Pascal Nicolai; as well as real estate celebrities Terek El Moussa and Heather El Moussa. Additionally Miami Beach Commissioner Joseph Magazine and local luminaries Andres Asion, Mike Tamzil and Simon Mass were also in attendance. This was not just a networking event; it was an experience.

Watch the full panel on YouTube:

Thank you to our sponsors:

Meet our Panelists for PROFILE Royal Retreat Hospitality Real Estate in Miami

On May 21 PROFILEmiami is set to take over the iconic Art Deco landmark and Miami hot spot, QUEEN to bring you an exclusive cocktail and exciting panel discussing hospitality  real estate with Miami’s top developers and owners Ronny Finvarb - Finvarb Group, Michael Simkins - E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development, Mathieu Massa - Mr. Hospitality / QUEEN, Alex Witkoff - Witkoff, Robert Rivani - Black Lion Investment Group and moderated by Christian Charre - Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality. The panelists will explore investing in, developing and operating commercial real estate assets with a focus on hospitality including hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, private clubs, golf courses, etc.

Attendees will sip custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka, Bennati Wine Esquisito Tequila and Tripping Animals brewing plus indulge in bites of modern Japanese cuisine by Queen’s executive chef Mitchell Hess, while taking in QUEEN’s opulent ambiance, followed by a panel discussion. This is not just a networking event; it's an experience.

Date: Tuesday, May 21 from 5 - 8 PM

Location: Queen Miami Beach, 550 Washington Ave., Miami Beach

Panelists:

• Mathieu Massa, Mr. Hospitality / Queen

• Michael Simkins, E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development

• Alex Witkoff, Witkoff

• Robert Rivani, Black Lion Investment Group

• Ronny Finvarb, Finvarb Group

• Christian Charre, Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality (Moderator)

Event May 21: Royal Retreat at Queen - Exploring Hospitality Real Estate in Miami

Join us for an exclusive hospitality event on May 21 where PROFILEmiami will take over the iconic Art Deco landmark and Miami hot spot, QUEEN. PROFILEmiami has teamed up with QUEEN Miami Beach to bring you an exclusive cocktail and exciting panel discussing hospitality real estate with Miami’s top developers and owners Ronny Finvarb - Finvarb Group, Michael Simkins - E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development, Mathieu Massa - Mr. Hospitality / QUEEN, Alex Witkoff - Witkoff, Robert Rivani - Black Lion Investment Group and moderated by Christian Charre - Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality.

Attendees will sip custom cocktails by E11EVEN Vodka and Bennati Wine plus indulge in bites of modern Japanese cuisine by Queen’s executive chef Mitchell Hess, while taking in QUEEN’s opulent ambiance, followed by a panel discussion. This is not just a networking event; it's an experience.

Part of PROFILEmiami’s highly-regarded PROFILEconnect bespoke networking event series, the event will bring together Miami’s top real estate industry and business professionals, influencers and fitness enthusiasts, for a fun evening with industry leaders.

Date: Tuesday, May 21 from 5 - 8 PM

Location: Queen Miami Beach, 550 Washington Ave., Miami Beach

Panelists:

• Mathieu Massa, Mr. Hospitality / Queen

• Michael Simkins, E11EVEN Partners / Lion Development

• Alex Witkoff, Witkoff

• Robert Rivani, Black Lion Investment Group

• Ronny Finvarb, Finvarb Group

• Christian Charre, Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality (Moderator)

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Thank You To Our Sponsors

Owners of Queen, Marion To Open Lafayette Steakhouse in Brickell

Lafayette Steakhouse, the latest addition to Miami's vibrant dining scene, is set to open its doors this Friday, promising an unparalleled culinary experience in the bustling Brickell district. Spearheaded by Mr. Hospitality Miami, the owners of Queen Miami Beach and Marion, Lafayette combines the allure of speakeasy culture with European elegance, offering discerning diners a sophisticated retreat amidst the city's dynamic energy.

Formerly known as El Tucán, Lafayette occupies an iconic space that reflects the evolution of sophistication in Miami's culinary landscape. With a focus on epicurean mastery, exemplary hospitality, and unmatched design standards, Lafayette aims to set new standards for luxury dining.

"At Lafayette Steakhouse, every detail is meticulously crafted to exude opulence and refinement, creating an unforgettable dining experience from the moment guests step through our doors," says Mathieu Massa, owner and founder of Mr. Hospitality Miami.

Catering to visionaries, artists, and socialites, Lafayette offers a haven of luxury and worldly sophistication. Inspired by Major General Marquis de Lafayette, the venue celebrates the enduring bond between France and America, blending speakeasy allure with European glamour.

The menu at Lafayette Steakhouse is curated by esteemed French Chef, Kylian Goussot, whose pedigree includes Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels. Drawing inspiration from ingredient-driven cuisine, Chef Goussot presents a selection of premium meats, fresh seafood, and intricately flavored dishes, expertly prepared over a wood charcoal Josper oven.

Complementing the stellar cuisine is an extensive selection of hand-selected wines, spirits, and cocktails curated by Head Sommelier Gabrielle Neuberg. Pastry Chef Nelson Mendonca adds the final flourish with his creative and decadent desserts, leaving a lasting impression on guests' palates.

Lafayette's artistic legacy is further enhanced by acclaimed artist Octave Marsal, whose intricate menu illustrations add a unique dimension to the dining experience. Meanwhile, the interior design, led by Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma Studio, reflects a harmonious blend of European charm and contemporary elegance.

Through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to curating an environment that transcends conventional luxury, Lafayette Steakhouse emerges as more than just a dining destination—it's a vibrant cultural nexus that celebrates Miami's rich heritage and culinary diversity.

Lafayette Steakhouse is located at 1111 SW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33130.

Mathieu Massa Sells Sunset Island Waterfront Estate For Record-Breaking $32 Million

Real Estate and Hospitality visionary, Mathieu Massa, Founder and CEO of Massa Investment Group and Mr. Hospitality Miami which owns Queen Miami Beach, continues to redefine luxury real estate throughout South Florida with the successful sale of a prime waterfront Sunset Island property located at 1826 W 23 ST in Miami Beach, setting a historic record of $5,218 per square foot.

The 6,132 square foot residential property, listed by Dina Goldentayer and Julian Cohen from Douglas Elliman at $36,000,000.00 sold on Friday, November 17th, 2023 for $32,000,000.00. The property sold only 6 weeks after the listing agreement was signed. The sale price represents an 11.11% discount on the asking price and the buyer, whose identity was not disclosed, closed cash within 10 business days after getting under contract. The buyer was represented by Marko Gojanovic and Reid Heidenry from One Sotheby’s International Realty.

1826 W 23 St stands as an embodiment of picturesque luxury in Miami Beach. Nestled within the sought-after Sunset Islands neighborhood—a haven for Miami's elite real estate connoisseurs— the residence radiates magnificence at every turn.

In April 2014, Mathieu Massa through 1826 W 23 ST LLC an entity he controlled, acquired the land for $5,750,000.00 embarking on an ambitious project that consisted of using modern technology to build one of the first contemporary Indonesian-style residential properties in the city.

Under the guidance of acclaimed architect Cesar Molina of CMA Design Studio and interior designers Dunagan & Diverio Design Group, Massa developed this residence with unparalleled opulence and class. His versatile talents and expertise are well-known by an infusion of European elegance and sophistication. This added value not only distinguishes Massa’s endeavors but also significantly contributes to his trailblazing record-breaking deals and accolades, further establishing him as an industry leader.

This single-family dwelling stands atop natural honed limestone and oak flooring, surrounded by rich millwork embracing the fireplace room, an elegant dining area with a wine cellar, and an office overlooking a tranquil koi pond amidst floating gardens. Boasting a backdrop of the Southwest Downtown skyline, this modern masterpiece comprises seven suites, including a guest pavilion.

Its expansive kitchen features luxurious leathered marble, a private prep area, and a family room with telescopic doors revealing stunning water vistas. Outdoor entertaining spaces include a covered TV lounge, a sleek knife-edged pool, an inviting bar, a summer kitchen, and 75 feet of waterfront access leading to the ocean. The residence offers additional amenities such as an elevator, a privacy gate, and a sophisticated smart Savant system, defining luxury and sophistication in today’s real estate landscape.

The recently sold property exemplifies Massa Investment Group's commitment to excellence, representing a seamless fusion of refinement, innovation, and superior craftsmanship. Last month, Massa and interior designer Carlos Rodriguez of Escala Forma, who recently refurbished 1826 W 23 ST before it was listed, won the 2023 prestigious award of Best Restaurant & Bar Design award in the world for Queen Miami Beach, a Japanese Steak House located at the Historic Paris Theater on 550 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach.

Images via Become Legendary

PROFILE Exclusive: 12 Questions With Restaurant and Entertainment Mogul Mathieu Massa of Queen

PROFILEMiami had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with hospitality mogul and real estate investor Mathieu Massa, who recently opened Queen, one of Miami’s hottest new restaurants in the historic Paris Theater on Miami Beach’s Washington Avenue. Mathieu leads Mr. Hospitality Group, which has opened hotspots such as Marion, El Tucán and Queen. He also oversees Massa Investment Group LLC, a fully integrated investment firm specializing in real estate development and hospitality which he launched in 2007. Massa Investment Group recently revealed plans to acquire the former Starwood Capital HQ in Miami Beach with Robert Rivani’s Black Lion Investment Group for $82 million.

Born in the French Riviera, Mathieu Massa hails from a family of entrepreneurs. His early inspiration comes from a lineage of great men that dates back to his great-grandfather, Sylvain Emile Massa, who migrated from Italy and settled in Cannes, France in 1908. Guided by the family’s entrepreneurial spirit from generation to generation, Mathieu embarked on a start track of higher education receiving his MBA degree from the prestigious school H.E.C in Paris and Babson College in Boston.

After graduating in 2007, Mathieu settled in Miami where he launched his private equity firm Massa Investment Group LLC. Massa Investment Group is a fully integrated investment firm specializing in real estate development and hospitality. Though initially focused on purchasing distressed assets following the subprime crisis of 2008, the company comprises all aspects of real estate development—from due diligence and positioning to branding, marketing, construction, and design.

Mathieu founded Massa Construction Group in 2009 and is well-versed in projects spanning from commercial, and residential, to hospitality and mixed-use structures. Notable projects include an extravagant villa in Cannes, France, which sold for 13 million euros in 2017, alongside four sprawling waterfront homes in Miami Beach, developed between 2015 and 2019. Three of these residential projects occupy Prairie Avenue, while the pinnacle of luxury resides within the esteemed Sunset Islands III.

Mathieu’s step into the hospitality world would then come by chance when he was approached by the famed Bâoli Cannes team to assist with the restaurant operations of their new venture in Miami Beach, a small Italian restaurant on Collins Avenue, known as Vita. First, Mathieu purchased a 50% stake in the business in 2009, and two years later took on sole ownership, transforming the sleepy Italian restaurant into the thriving Bâoli Miami we know today. The biggest overhaul was by far the entertainment, Bâoli Miami was Miami Beach’s first supper club, introducing a sophisticated dinner party concept with late-night entertainment that’s now synonymous with the city’s nightlife scene. In 2014, after the immense success of Baoli, which was named one of the best restaurants in Florida, Mathieu founded Mr. Hospitality, which would soon become the driving force behind Miami’s most successful and upscale dining establishments.

In 2023, Mathieu revealed his plans to take over the historic Paris Theater building in Miami Beach and convert it into an unprecedented and exquisitely lavish destination for fine dining and entertainment under the esteemed operation of Mr. Hospitality Group. Led by Mathieu’s visionary leadership, the 23,000-square-foot Miami landmark was meticulously transformed into an ultra-luxurious modern Japanese restaurant and lounge, coined Queen Miami Beach. The $40-million-dollar redevelopment endeavor has introduced a new level of luxury dining, since opening its doors to the public in February 2023, and marks only the beginning of Mathieu's ambitious plans to further elevate and revitalize the premier hospitality development landscape in Miami Beach.

PROFILEmiami recently caught up with Mathieu following the launch of his newest addition to Queen Miami Beach, Queen Omakase, to see how he creates trailblazing venues giving guests a heightened, luxurious entertainment-driven experience and finding synergy between real estate and design, and investing:

PROFILEmiami (PM): Tell us about your roots? Where did you grow up? What is your background?

Matthew Massa (MM): I was born and raised in Cannes, France, a city famous for hosting the annual film festival on the French Riviera. After completing my education at a business school in France, I pursued an MBA at Babson College in Boston. In 2007, I made the decision to settle in Miami, opting to take a chance on a new path in a different location rather than returning to France to manage the family businesses, which included ventures in tires, wine, and horses, among others.

PM: How did you get involved in the hospitality industry? What was your first venture into hospitality?

MM: In 2009, I was approached by the owners of Baoli in Cannes to assist with their new venture in Miami Beach, which consisted of the restaurant operations of a small Italian restaurant on Collins Avenue and 19th Street called Vita. While my background was in real estate and finance, I quickly developed a passion for the hospitality and restaurant industry as I worked tirelessly on this project. Within a few months, I became a partner, and after a year and a half, I assumed sole ownership. This marked the beginning of Baoli Miami's transformation into the thriving establishment it is today.

PM: As a hospitality entrepreneur, where do you draw your inspiration? Is there a signature vibe or features of the hospitality experience that are unique to you and your institutions?

MM: I draw my inspiration from my travels around the world: Saint Tropez, Montecarlo, Ibiza, Japan, Brazil, China, Russia, etc.. What sets us apart as a business is our distinctive European approach to people, cuisine, and service. This international perspective infuses our institutions with a unique blend of influences and a signature vibe that differentiates us from the local competition.

PM: What are they keys to running a successful world class restaurant, like Queen, in a global city like Miami?

MM: Running a successful world-class restaurant in a global city like Miami, such as Queen, requires a commitment to excellence, discipline, and unwavering consistency. Attention to detail is key, ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience, from the cuisine to the ambiance, contributes to creating a special and memorable visit. Attentive hospitality, adaptability, and innovation are also key to staying ahead of evolving trends and guest preferences.

PM: Where did the idea for Queen come about? What inspirations helped you evolve the concept?

MM: The idea for Queen was born from the space itself, which possessed undeniable uniqueness, theatricality, and spectacle. The concept organically evolved around the distinctive characteristics and existing conditions of the real estate structure.

PM: How did you acquire the property and the journey to the grand opening?

MM: The journey to Queen's grand opening began with my decision to acquire the property in November 2019. However, in March 2020, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty to the restaurant industry, with closures happening worldwide. I had to make a difficult decision about proceeding with the purchase. It was undoubtedly one of the most difficult choices I've ever made, but ultimately, it turned out to be the right one. It then took 3 years of tireless work and unwavering dedication to transform the property into what is now one of the world's most spectacular restaurants.

PM: What makes Queen so much different than any other dining experience in Miami?

MM: What distinguishes Queen is its exceptional attention to detail in crafting a truly immersive, theatrical guest experience. From the moment you step through the front entrance, you're enveloped in an atmosphere that seamlessly blends theatricality with elegance. The journey continues into the main dining room, where an open kitchen adds an interactive element to the guest’s dining experience. With multi-level spaces, state-of-the-art sound, lighting, video, and special effects, Queen sets the stage for a memorable evening. What truly sets Queen apart is its commitment to glamour and sophistication, from the meticulously curated decor and captivating art program to the elegant dress code and high-level execution of cuisine and service.

PM: Tell us about Queen Omakase. When did you decide to add the private omakase room dining component?

MM: This was decided during the design phase of the project, which actually took place during the middle of the covid lock down. Our primary objective was to introduce an exclusive, intimate, and captivating dimension to enhance our guests' experiences.

Omakase is one of the most demanding and respectful forms of dining between the Chef and the customer. What is different about curating the Queen Omakase experience for your guests? How is it different from other omakase experiences in Miami?

Our omakase room is designed to evoke the feeling of a residential open kitchen, creating an inviting and personalized atmosphere reminiscent of dining in someone's home. What truly sets us apart is the exclusive speakeasy-style access to the omakase room, guiding guests through the main kitchen and back-of-house areas for a very special and exciting journey. The omakase room itself is a masterpiece of posh, sophistication, and glamour. From the bamboo-style wallpaper to the custom Murano glass chandelier, vintage lighting fixtures, and art pieces, these elements combine to envelop guests in an atmosphere of elegance and refinement.

PM: Why did you choose Chef Max Kamakura to oversee Queen Omakase?

MM: Chef Max Kamakura was chosen to lead Queen Omakase due to his unique blend of traditional sushi expertise and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. As a fourth-generation sushi chef from a family deeply rooted in tradition, Chef Max brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence. What sets him apart is his ability to infuse traditional techniques with globally sourced ingredients, resulting in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Moreover, Chef Max's positive attitude and spirited energy add to the overall enjoyment of the intimate dining setting, which is important for the guest experience.

PM: What are some of Queen’s signature items that, as the owner, you would recommend to guests?

MM: First and foremost, I encourage guests to try our exquisite selection of meats, carefully sourced from top producers both in the United States and Japan. Some of our best-selling dishes, which I’d also highly recommend, include the Maitake Mushrooms, Avocado Tart, Caviar Crispy Rice, and the Cacio e Pepe Mushroom side dish, which has become a real crowd favorite.

PM: What does Queen’s opening and success mean to the city of Miami Beach?

MM: Queen's opening and success has brought a significant positive impact to the city of Miami Beach. City officials, including high-ranking figures, have expressed their pride in having such a prestigious establishment in a neighborhood that faced challenges in the past. Some city staff members have even noted that Queen's presence represents one of the most significant developments in the city in the last 25 years, comparable to the impact of notable establishments from the past. The success of Queen has revitalized the city's sense of glamour and elevated its culinary reputation. It has also caught the attention of accomplished restaurant operators, positioning Miami Beach as a competitive player alongside renowned dining destinations like Dubai, London, New York City, and Las Vegas. Queen's influence on the city is a clear indicator of its ability to reshape and enhance the dining and cultural landscape in Miami Beach.

PM: Do you intend to expand the Queen concept to other markets or is it to remain an exclusively South Beach experience?

MM: While I've received tempting offers to expand the Queen concept to various global markets like Dubai, Saudi Arabia, London, Ibiza, and Paris, I am committed to maintaining its exclusivity as a South Beach experience. After all, how many Paris Theaters can you find?

Images via Queen Miami Beach

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. 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.

Inside The Ultra-Lavish Grand Opening of Queen Miami Beach, The City's Most Sophisticated New Restaurant

Queen Miami Beach celebrated the grand opening of the new, luxury restaurant and lounge with a sophisticated, black-tie soirée on January 26, 2023. Taking over the iconic Paris Theater revealing its $40 million renovation, attendees were greeted by live statues and interactive performances, ranging from musical ensembles to aerial acrobatics, from Italian-based production NuArt.

Guests enjoyed passed bites featuring Crispy Rice Caviar, a variety of fresh Sushi and Nigiri, Chicken Yakitori among more before indulging in the delectable, live Jamón Ibérico carving and handroll stations. Concluding the evening on a sweet note, desserts included Yuzu Olive Pol Chous, Roasted Pineapple Tartlet, and Japanese Cappuccino.

Libations served included the Mademoiselle - a beautiful blend of vodka, lychee, coconut and ginger, Madame Butterfly - an immersion of vodka, chartreuse, cucumber, shiso, honey and rhubarb, The Leopard King - featuring bourbon, montenegro, pineapple, yuzu and cardamom, and the Heavenly Sovereign - a devine mix of tequila, lilet blanc, bergamot liquro and passionfruit.

Guests in attendance included Cuba Gooding Jr., Romero Britto (artist), Rene Ruiz (designer), Mathieu Massa (owner of Queen), Bella Dose, Alison Solis, Marla Solis, Carlos Rodriguez (ModPlay Studio), Lisa DiCicco Cahue, Angeles Almuna, Ginger Harris, Ria Michelle, Monroe Steele, Haiiileen (artist), Kristin Sanchez, Bridgette Matter, Kobi Karp (architect), Nancy Karp, Katya Demina (PROFILEmiami), Demetri Demascus (PROFILEmiami), Athena Dion, Eric Milon, Gabriella Catano, Liz Elias and Andrea Valentina.

Queen Miami Beach immerses guests into a nostalgic world of decadence, glamour, power, and inimitable magnificence at South Florida’s newest luxury dining experience. Celebrating the city’s history, Queen Restaurant & Lounge breathes new life into the iconic Paris Theater, built in 1945 by famed Art Deco architect Henry Hohauser, restoring the property to its original intended glory with over-the-top 21st-century splendor. Recognizable by album covers and music videos of Madonna, U2, J. Lo, Christina Aguilera, and Ricky Martin, the nostalgic design emulates opulence and allure, honoring the glam of the past while envisioning the mystique of the future. From the Rat Pack era of the 1950s to the hedonistic nights of the 1990s, the Paris Theater has evolved with the times and is reborn for a new generation with the creation of Queen Miami Beach.

Queen Miami Beach is located at 550 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Images via Alex Tamargo, Getty