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 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

Apocalypse Manufacturing And SoFlo Customs Acquires Pompano Beach Manufacturing Facility for $10.7 Million

South Florida-based Apocalypse Manufacturing and South Florida Custom Jeeps (SoFlo Customs), known for their one-of-a-kind custom-made jeeps led by founder Joseph Ghattas, has closed on a $10.7 million acquisition of a new manufacturing facility to build and fabricate custom trucks. The 41,520-square-foot state-of-the-art facility was developed in late 2022 and is located at 2151 Hammondville Road in Pompano Beach, Florida. As a result of the off-market transaction, the new warehouse property will be used by the buyer to build and fabricate every Soflo Custom and Apocalypse 6x6 truck which will be sold off-site.

The purchase represents the expansion of the companies’ manufacturing facility from a 18,000-square-foot location in Fort Lauderdale to more than double the space at the new site in Pompano Beach. In addition to the physical expansion, the auto company plans to add approximately 35 skilled workers.

“The Hammondville Road location is perfect, as it is a brand-new facility with 16 grade-level doors and situated within a half-mile from Florida’s Turnpike and less than one mile from Interstate 95 offering convenient tri-county access,” said Viscount. “A spec building developed as an investment and marketed to rent the property’s design with a fairly narrow truck court limited the pool of potential prospects looking for industrial space but was ideal for my client, especially in a market where industrial space is scarce.”

South Florida Custom Jeeps was represented by Avison Young Principal Tom Viscount in the transaction. CBRE’s Tom O’Loughlin and Larry Genet represented the seller 1501 N Powerline LLC in the transaction.

“To move forward with the transaction, we had to work with the City of Pompano Beach to get the use of the facility approved,” explained Viscount. “We met with the city commissioners, zoning committee, and the mayor, all of whom were great to work with and unanimously agreed to the requested light manufacturing use of the building.”

SoFlo Customs has upgraded, customized and built from scratch over 3,000 Jeeps which they are famous for building with lift kits, big wheels, eye-grabbing rims and custom tailor-made leather interiors. The vehicles are sold throughout the country and internationally, with many designs exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars. The high demand for the Apocalypse truck, which have waiting lists that consist of celebrities, athletes, and other high-profile buyers, led to the company’s search for a newer, larger facility that could accommodate the workflow. The trucks have been featured on Jay Leno’s Garage and in MotorTrend. SoFlo Customs has four stores and approximately 40 employees.

Images via South Florida Custom Jeeps

Quest Workspaces Signs 22,252 SF Lease At Allen Morris Company's Alhambra Towers

Quest Workspaces, a leading Florida-based developer and operator of high-quality flexible workspace solutions in Miami and New York, has signed a 22,522 square foot lease at the Allen Morris Company’s iconic Alhambra Towers in Coral Gables, located at 121 Alhambra Plaza. Quest Workspaces will occupy the entire 10th floor of Coral Gables’ premier Class A+ building and is expected to open in Q3 2023.

Quest’s newest location in Alhambra Plaza will be the shared workspace brand’s 13th location throughout Florida and New York. Quest Workspaces is the largest female-owned shared workspace brand in the U.S., has been named one of INC’s 5000 Fastest Growing Companies and has been voted a ‘Best Place to Work’ every year for the past 10 years.

“We are honored to have Quest Workspaces join the Alhambra Towers family,” says Spencer Morris, President of The Allen Morris Company. “The location of the building, coupled with Quest’s highly successful operating structure is ideal for the post-pandemic hybrid work model desired by so many. The expanded building amenities create an unparalleled value proposition in the shared workspace arena as well as for all of Alhambra Towers’ tenants. The furnished, fully landscaped outdoor terraces will be ideal for special events, lunch, and coffee breaks.”

The shared workspace offerings will include individual offices, most with expansive windows, shared meeting spaces and multiple conference rooms of various sizes. Alhambra Towers’ 10th floor also includes one-of-a-kind amenities, including three large, wrap-around, multi-use outdoor terraces totaling 6,000 square feet, offering 360-degree views of the city.

Quest Workspaces plans on completely renovating the terraces, turning them into zen-like spaces for lunch breaks, casual meetings, recreational usage and special events. The space will be accessible to all building tenants.

Quest’s lease coincides with a $4 million renovation of the building’s lobby and common areas, and the addition of a ground-floor, soon-to-be-announced destination restaurant on the building’s ground floor, scheduled to open this summer.

Lance Benson of Newmark represented Quest, Thad Adams, Maricarmen Cabrera and Rafael del Rosal represented Alhambra Towers.

“We are so excited to expand our presence in Coral Gables, and bring our unique approach to shared workspace to more businesses and entrepreneurs in our community,” says Laura Kozelouzek, CEO of Quest Workspaces. “Our new location in Alhambra Towers is the corner of ‘Main and Main,’ within minutes from dozens of restaurants and hotels. Plus, a building owned and operated by The Allen Morris Company ensures us that our clients are benefiting from being in a superior office building with the highest level of service, quality and amenities.”

Location Ventures Breaks Ground on URBIN Coconut Grove

The Miami-based real estate developer Location Ventures has broken ground on URBIN Coconut Grove. The milestone signifies the launch of construction for the second location for URBIN, a mixed-use brand that unites design-forward residences for short- or long-term rental with flex workspaces, wellness amenities, social activations, and lifestyle-oriented retail, all in one address. The URBIN Coconut Grove groundbreaking follows Location Venture’s December 2022 groundbreaking on URBIN Miami Beach.

Location Ventures, development partners and city officials gathered on January 25 at the Coconut Grove project site, 3162 Commodore Plaza, for the official groundbreaking ceremony. Special guests included Miami Mayor Frances Suarez, former City of Miami Commissioner Ken Russell and Location Ventures CEO Rishi Kapoor, who shared remarks about the future development and coveted Coconut Grove locale – Miami’s oldest neighborhood.

The residential component of the property is 90% sold, with exclusive sales representation by ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, and has attracted a diverse buyer demographic, from Latin America and Europe. Plans are underway to further scale the URBIN brand in key cities throughout the U.S. Construction commencement in Coconut Grove comes on the heels of the Miami Beach location’s groundbreaking in the fourth quarter of 2022, following its sell-out.

“Demand for URBIN Coconut Grove has been steadfast due to its unique ownership opportunities and location in a thriving neighborhood. We are excited to begin the construction and bring this vision to life,” said Kapoor. “Living, working and wellness are the pillars of this coveted address, all integrated into a singular location.”

URBIN Coconut Grove is comprised of 54 residences ranging from studios at 331 square feet to six bedrooms at 2,352 square feet. Thoughtfully planned for convenient, easy living, residences combine modern luxury with efficient layouts and are delivered designer-finished and furnished for turnkey ownership. Arquitectonica and Paredes Architects are behind the architectural design, while residences will feature interiors by am studio, a boutique design collaborative committed to creating cohesive, resourceful, and oneiric spaces.

A variety of resort-inspired services, such as valet parking, concierge, housekeeping, and room service, will complement onsite amenities to create an environment to “live-work-well.” Residents and members of the adjacent URBIN Work will be complemented by a host of food and beverage options, as well as a wellness center with programming for mindfulness, movement, nourishment, and healing. URBIN Work, pre-leasing with Colliers, offers modern office space for businesses of the future looking to make Miami’s most dynamic neighborhood home. Both traditional office and flex workspaces provide modern amenities.

The property’s dedicated coworking component will bring an elevated level of service to the work experience. In addition to the physical space, coworking members will have access to necessary business support tools, including consulting, administrative and networking services.

The URBIN development is the latest addition to the vibrant Coconut Grove community, which has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Embodying the laid-back waterfront lifestyle of the locale, it is an area brimming with world-class restaurants, neighborhood shops, lush parks and a hub of growing business enterprises. URBIN Coconut Grove is situated in the center of it all, two blocks from CocoWalk, and within walking distance to Dinner Key Marina, the bay, and Regatta and Peacock Park.

The Anticipated New Restaurant Concept 'Giselle' Set To Open February 3 Atop The E11EVEN Rooftop

After much anticipation, Giselle Miami, the new restaurant concept from E11EVEN and The Restaurant People, will open its doors on February 3, 2023 in the heart of Downtown’s Arts and Entertainment District. Situated on the rooftop of E11EVEN Miami, Giselle will serve as a lively addition to the local culinary scene merging Asian, Mediterranean & French-inspired cuisine, elevated cocktail programming, and exquisite design with supreme hospitality-driven service. Boasting mystique and an undeniable sense of allure, the rooftop restaurant concept will transport guests on a journey into the world behind the eyes of Giselle.

“We are thrilled to finally be opening the doors to Giselle,” said Dennis DeGori, Creator and Co-Founder of E11EVEN Miami. “Between the cuisine, beverages, and ambiance guests will indulge in, coupled with the one-of-a-kind five-star hospitality experience that we and The Restaurant People are known for, Giselle Miami is ready to welcome all!”

Executive Chef Gustavo Zuluaga brings years of experience to the anticipated concept and has designed a menu packed with unexpected flavors and refined Asian, Mediterranean & French influences. Guests can look forward to fresh fare enriched with Giselle’s signature added flair:

• At ‘First Glance,’ you’ll experience Bluefin Tuna Truffle Cones (Seasonal Truffles, Wasabi Creme Fraiche, 24K Golf Leaf), Hamachi Crudo (Duo of Coconut Sauces, Agrumato Lemon Olive Oil, Puffed Amaranth), Truffle Toast(Seasonal Truffles, Raclette, Cremini Duxelles); and Kurobuta Pork Ribs (Yakiniku Glaze, Togarashi, Scallions), etc..

• See her ‘Seaduction’ with the Chilean Sea Bass (Miso Japanese Eggplant, Baby Bok Choy, Tarragon), Mediterranean Branzino (Fennel Confit, Garlic Broccolini, Lemon Chervil Nage), and Flaming Lobster Thermidor (2lb Maine Lobster, Cognac & Dijon Mustard Sauce, Crispy Shitakes), among other options.

• Reach your ‘Desire’ with mouthwatering meats such as an 8oz Filet Mignon(Piquillo Peppers, Pearl Onions, and a Choice of Sauce) and Free-Range Peking Chicken (Bao Buns, Hoisin, Leeks, and Radishes).

• Experience pure ‘Indulgence’ with the Japanese A5 (Snow Aged A5 Wagyu, Sushi Rice, Shiso Leaves, Truffle Ponzu), and Flaming Australian Wagyu Tomahawk (Pomme Puree, Wild Mushrooms, Sauce Selection).

• Treat yourselves to ‘‘The Finer Things’ including Champagne & Caviar (Dom Perignon Vintage Luminous, 4oz Siberian 5-Star & Accompaniments), or a Seafood Tower (Maine Lobster, Stone Crab, Oysters, Shrimp).

• Or perhaps, providing the most ‘‘Temptation’ is the impeccable Chef’s Selection 6-course tasting experience.

• But, don’t forget to satisfy your ‘Pleasures’ with the Giselle’s Pearls (Gold and Silver Pearls, 6 Leches Sponge Cake, Crème Chantilly) or the Flambé Roquefort Tart (Savory Cheese Tart, Grand Marnier, Cabernet Poached Petite Pears).

Giselle will lure guests in with an indulgent collection of skillfully-crafted cocktails and an extensive list of high-end wines and spirits. Her curated cocktail program is centered around names and flavor profiles that provoke thoughts of memorable adventures and nights out on the town. The refreshing ‘Head Over Heels’ cocktail is a mix of E11EVEN Vodka, Sparkling Rosé, Raspberry, Lemongrass & Citrus served in a glass stiletto and designed to be shared, while the French Kiss is made with Sipsmith London Dry Gin, Champagne, Lemon, Maraschino Cherry.

“We couldn’t be more proud and excited to welcome guests to Giselle,” said Tim Petrillo, CEO & Co-Founder of The Restaurant People. “In addition to the elevated food and drink offerings that Giselle will offer, we are super excited to introduce Giselle to Miami and be part of the E11EVEN family which has been the gold standard of the Miami nightlife for close to a decade.”

Giselle is sophisticated yet eclectic, seductively captivating, edgy, and outright extravagant on every level, from her presentation to the aura of mystery she evokes in each guest that walks through her doors. The team tapped international award-winning South Africa-based interior architect Tristan Du Plessis to completely transform the space with high-style design, modern elegance, and custom-made decor elements from all around the world, including Italy, Netherlands, Paris, London, Greece, New York, South Africa, and Miami.

Upon arrival, guests will take a private elevator up to the main entrance of the rooftop restaurant, where they will be invited to step into the sultry fantasy world of Giselle via a luminous mosaic-tiled tunnel that whimsically leads into Giselle’s foyer. A custom-built retractable roof spans the entirety of the indoor-outdoor restaurant, allowing for a truly dynamic dining experience. The dazzling, panoramic setting was designed with an unparalleled level of artistry that breathes life into each of the exceptionally detailed areas that make up Giselle Miami.

Giselle’s 14-seat marble-adorned Bar presents an idyllic space for guests to sip and savor her signature libations. Offering guests an added multimedia art experience, an animated digital art display cases the wall behind the Bar and showcases the work of Miami-based filmmaker and producer Frank Kelly. Kelly was tapped to produce a custom short film series for the space that reveals snippets of Giselle’s persona with a seductive cinematic eye.

An intimate Lounge/Terrace area extends from the Bar, offering comfortable lounge seating and elegant black marble embellished dining tables set against Miami's evening skyline. Separating this space from the central dining area within the venue, a double-sided mirrored sign spells out, in neon fluorescence, the spoken words of Giselle: “I’ll be here, if by chance, you’ll be here too.”

Giselle’s Central Dining area houses a thoughtful curation of table settings to accommodate varied restaurant-goers party sizes – from cozy tables for two all the way up to larger seatings for ten. A partially enclosed space, bordered by lush greenery and marble scaffolding, boasts three large-party custom-built round tables. Refined with sleek wood paneling and delicately hand-carved trimmings, each table setting within this area can comfortably seat up to 10 guests.

The must-see crown jewel within Giselle’s artfully devised layout leads us to the concept’s utterly awe-striking Dream Room. This high-design main dining room space is engulfed with impossibly oversized French lace and elaborate baroque detailing, whereas the walls and ceilings are ornamented in 3D wood-carved architectural detailings. At the heart of the Dream Room, an open interactive kitchen offers an exclusive experiential element for guests. Giselle’s spectacular settings each offer their own unique personality and idyllic backdrops for bespoke private dining experiences and events.

Giselle is located at 15 NE 11 St., Miami, FL 33132. Opening hours of operation are Wednesday - Sunday, from 6:00pm until late.

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

Queen Miami Beach, Ultra Exclusive Modern Japanese Restaurant And Lounge, Set To Open February 2

Immerse yourself into a nostalgic world of decadence, glamour, power, and inimitable magnificence at Queen Miami Beach, South Florida’s newest luxury dining experience, set to open February 2nd, in the 5th street corridor of Miami Beach.

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.

“Being in the Miami market for over 15 years, and witnessing the city’s rapid growth, I saw an opportunity with the historic Paris Theatre to create an uber luxurious, selective, one-of-a-kind fine dining and nightlife destination. Miami has recently experienced an influx of some of the most influential people in the country, so we decided to go after this demographic, a more sophisticated, educated, elevated, and more mature type of clientele. Our goal will be to create the most beautiful, interesting, diverse, and fun mix of people possible, on any given night.” Said Mathieu Massa, entrepreneur, restaurateur, and sole owner of Queen Miami Beach.

Ushering in a new era of extravagance, Queen Restaurant & Lounge is designed to see and be seen. Extending the ultimate dining experience, the restaurant seamlessly blends superb Japanese cuisine and world-class hospitality, with today’s bold modernity of elevated nightlife to evoke a new era of posh, Miami has yet to see. With renowned interior designer Carlos Rodriguez of ModPlay Studio at the helm of Queen Miami Beach’s unrivaled design, guests will be amazed at the awe-inspiring reimagination of the space inspired by the preserved architectural details from the ‘40s.

Upon entering the golden doors, guests will be wowed by a custom mosaic handmade in Italy, sensual terrazzo floors, and a mid-century, brass chandelier from J.T. Kalmar. The convivial black and white mural located in the front entrance vestibule by local Miami Artist Gonzalo Fuenmayor was inspired by the exuberant Brazilian entertainer Carmen Miranda.

Follow the main entrance’s curved Art Deco passageway, made of brass slat, to The Salon Lounge where you’ll be met by ever-so exquisite Lobmeyr chandeliers - famously unveiled at the Metropolitan Opera House in 1966, original Paris Theater crown molding motifs refinished in gold leaf, and a gorgeous Calacatta Viola marble bar.

Arrive at the grandiose main dining room, mezzanine floors, or the members-only VIP Lounge to experience an orchestrated dance of space and depth, textures and context, lighting, and sound. Get a glimpse of the fine-dining kitchen through custom-looking glass windows as you approach the sensational Mondrian wall, the dining room’s awe-inspiring focal point. Take in unparalleled architectural and interior details as they unfold, reaching a zenith as you watch the LED-paneled Dome ceiling transform.

World-renowned Chef Julien Jouhannaud, known to oversee several Michelin-starred restaurants in New York and most recently led the culinary teams at Annabelle’s in London, serves as Queen Miami Beach’s Chief Culinary Officer overseeing local Chef Mitchell Hesse, leading as Queen Miami Beach’s Executive Chef. Together, the pair has created a carefully curated menu that blissfully marries French techniques with Japanese ingredients. Designed to be shared and intended to delight the senses, every dish is infused with superior flavor, dazzling creativity, and authentic, fresh ingredients.

“I look forward to being a part of a new chapter of Miami’s restaurant scene. Queen Miami Beach will offer a fully immersive experience of all your senses. Let the show begin!” Said Chef Julien Jouhannaud

Queen Restaurant & Lounge will take guests on a 5-star culinary journey through Japanese gastronomic traditions, matched with a modern approach. Dishes range from small plates to a curated raw and marinated section to sushi platters and seafood towers, which then segue into heartier main courses. American classics are reimagined through a Japanese lens with a focus on wood-fired grilling via a Josper Charcoal Oven and two Robata Flame Grills. A premier hand-selected butcher’s program revolves around the highest-grade American and Japanese Wagyu and exclusive Prime Grass-fed beef, while sushi offerings complement the dining experience with the finest seafood sourced from Japan and beyond. Desserts will be both sculptural and elegant, offering a sweet ending and a fitting coda to the extravagant dining experience.

An extensive cocktail program will encompass libations that incorporate fresh ingredients and Japanese spirits, while a separate world-class wine and champagne list will offer an elite selection from exclusive labels and boutique producers, including a unique partnership with the luxurious Louis XIII.

The distinct ‘Salon Lounge’ area will house Queen Miami Beach’s main bar, which will offer a selection of craft cocktails. The Salon Lounge bar will also serve as an after-dinner drinks destination or a spot to have an elegant nightcap while enjoying the venue’s lively atmosphere until late in the evening.

A covert ‘Omakase Counter’ will live on the second floor and peek out into the main dining room below, catering to those looking for chef’s selection of delicately composed nigiri and traditional dishes. From the exclusive theater balconies, guests will glimpse at the culinary fireworks occurring below, as dishes of exquisite Japanese cuisine are paraded through the plush dining room.

Channeling the sumptuously rich spirit of the famed Art Deco building it now calls home, Queen Miami Beach will denote an unrivaled indulgence of all the senses where elevated cuisine, excellent cocktails, and singular service reign supreme.

Queen Miami Beach will open Tuesday through Saturday, from 6pm until late, and is located at The Paris Theater, 550 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

Mega Mixed-Use Development Wynwood Plaza Locks Down $215 Million Construction Loan

L&L Holding Company, Oak Row Equities and Shorenstein have locked down $215 million in construction financing for Wynwood Plaza, a mega mixed-use development on a 2.85-acre site in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. Managing Director Scott Wadler and Vice President Michael Basinski of Berkadia South Florida secured the financing on behalf of the developers, a joint venture between L&L Holding Company, a vertically integrated real estate company based in New York, N.Y., Oak Row Equities (formerly Carpe Real Estate Partners), a real estate private equity and development company based in New York, N.Y., and Shorenstein, a real estate investment company based in San Francisco, Calif.

Bank OZK provided the three-year, floating-rate loan with two one-year extension options.

The developers acquired the site, a 15-parcel assemblage, in late 2021 for $53 million, after filing plans for a development that would deliver one million square feet of office, retail, residential and outdoor entertainment space. The project, which Gensler is designing, is slated to complete in 2024.

“Wynwood has emerged as one of Miami’s busiest submarkets, with tech, financial and creative firms flocking to the area and driving demand for office, retail and residential space to all-time highs,” said Wadler. “Wynwood Plaza is poised to be a monumental project anchoring this dynamic community, and we were fortunate to find a lender who recognized the Sponsor’s unique vision and capabilities to execute it.”

Located at 95 Northwest 29th Street, Wynwood Plaza will consist of approximately 509 luxury rental apartments, 275,000 square feet of Class A office space, 25,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space, a 20,000-square-foot open-air retail plaza, and a parking garage.

The Elser Hotel & Residences Miami Closes On $80 Million In Sales In Less Than 60 Days

The Elser Hotel & Residences Miami, a 49-story new construction luxury condominium located at 398 NE 5th St., has successfully closed on $80 million in sales in less than 60 days. This immense sales volume marks the pivotal return of Latin American investment in South Florida, with 75% of sales coming primarily from Colombia, Mexico, and Chile, as well as the continued fervent demand for turnkey, new construction residences in the heart of Downtown Miami. The Elser Hotel & Residences Miami was developed by National development and investment firm PMG and Canadian-based private equity firm Greybrook. The team has successfully completed closings with premier financial institutions such as City National Bank, Prime Equity and several others. PMG Residential is the exclusive sales team for The Elser Hotel & Residences.

“Miami’s status as an international business hub and world-class metropolitan destination has positioned the city as one of the world’s most desired real estate markets,” said Sergio Pintos, Principal of PMG Residential. “The ability to now explore the best culinary, entertainment, and retail offerings all within footsteps of one’s home is extremely attractive to buyers. With so much available at one’s fingertips, it is no wonder that The Elser Hotel & Residences has experienced such a high volume of sales and successful closings in such a short time.”

Offering unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay and sweeping views of the Miami skyline, The Elser Hotel & Residences Miami is designed by Sieger Suarez Architects with interior architecture and design by Cotofana Designs. The fully furnished residences range from studios to three-bedrooms spanning 404 to 1307 square feet. Managed by industry-leading management company Highgate, the property will allow owners to enter a short-term rental program with daily rental options through The Elser Hotel & Residences Owners Program.

“When The Elser Hotel & Residences was created, we wanted to invest in the area’s potential for new development and flexible living options,” said Ryan Shear, managing partner of PMG. “It is beyond exciting to see how receptive today’s buyers are to the concept and everything it has to offer, from short-term rental options to a high-caliber level of downtown living. We are honored to work with our partner Greybrook as The Elser Hotel & Residences continues to make its mark on Miami.”

"The Elser Hotel and Residences is a truly unique property benefiting from an abundance of exceptional amenities and situated in a prime location with convenient access to everything the Downtown Miami core has to offer," said Sami Mouaket, Director of U.S. Investments & Development at Greybrook. "This marks another successfully completed development in our growing portfolio of projects with our partner PMG who has significant experience in the Miami market and continuously demonstrates seamless execution in development management and construction.”

Amenities at The Elser Hotel & Residences include a double-level amenity deck spanning over 19,000 square feet which overlooks Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay, a 132-foot resort-style pool with private lounge areas and a 16-foot poolside screening LED wall. Additional amenities include co-working spaces, oversized modern gyms and fitness studios with frequent group classes, multiple lounges, smart package lockers, bike storage facilities, and a yoga lawn overlooking Biscayne Bay, among others. The property will include a new lobby cocktail bar and restaurant by the creators of Jaguar Sun as well as a coffee lounge by Cafe Domino.

Terra and Turnberry Tap Balfour Beatty As GP For Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel

Two of South Florida’s premier real estate developments groups, Terra and Turnberry, have selected Balfour Beatty as the general contractor for the new Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel. Located at the intersection of 17th Street and Convention Center Drive, the 17-story, 800-room hotel will serve as the central anchor of the Miami Beach Convention Center District, steps away from the beachfront, hundreds of shops and restaurants along Lincoln Road, the New World Center, the Bass Museum, and the Fillmore Miami Beach. Early site work at the property is now underway, with vertical construction anticipated to start this year and be completed in 2025.

“A project of this magnitude and significance requires the best in-class team and we are thrilled to have Balfour Beatty onboard leading the construction efforts,” said developer David Martin, CEO of Terra, and Jackie Soffer, Chairman and CEO of Turnberry. “The firm’s extensive experience pioneering new technologies and transforming communities through smart infrastructure aligns with our goal to deliver a hotel that will transform the City’s convention center campus into one of the most desirable meeting and convention destinations in the world.”

Headquartered in Dallas with full-service offices throughout the U.S., Balfour Beatty is a leading commercial construction company with a portfolio of high-profile projects including terminal expansion projects at Jacksonville International Airport, Florida International University Student Academic Success Center, the W hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando, Paseo de la Riviera in Coral Gables, and Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center among others.

“This is a beacon development for Miami Beach,” commented Scott Skidelsky, Balfour Beatty president in the Southeast. “Balfour Beatty’s national operations started its roots in South Florida and being a part of the community is a point of pride for our company. Being chosen to construct this icon project means the world to our project team who are some of the best builders in the industry and they are all so excited to work with our stakeholders to make this an incredibly successful build experience.”

Development of the Grand Hyatt comes as Miami Beach and South Florida solidify their position among the world’s most visited destinations. According to a recent report by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, 15.9 million overnight visitors and an additional 8.3-million-day visitors totaling 24.2 million came to the area in 2021, matching the total volume of tourists seen pre-pandemic in 2019. Furthermore, visitor spending rebounded, and tourists spent an estimated $19.2 billion, an increase of 8% over 2019. In 2022, Miami-Dade County hotel occupancy from January through October was up 10% over the previous year, a total of 72.2% occupancy – the sixth-highest occupancy in the country in major markets – with an average daily rate of $251, which is 18.8% higher than 2021.

“The Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will be a great addition to the local hotel landscape,” said Wendy Kallergis, President & CEO of the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association. “Miami Beach has a broad range of hotel options – from luxury brands, meetings, leisure, independent and boutiques – but there has long been a need for a conference hotel that maximizes the impact of the newly-renovated Convention Center. The Grand Hyatt’s 800 rooms will meet this demand, and it comes at a time when meeting planners around the world are looking at Miami Beach for their upcoming conferences, conventions, and trade shows.”

The 17-story Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will include 12 floors of guest rooms and 52 suites offering views of Miami Beach, four floors of meeting spaces and ballrooms that will complement the Convention Center, a resort-style pool deck with panoramic views, a signature restaurant, lobby lounge and bar, and limited retail space that will activate the district at street level. An elevated skybridge will enable event attendees to move freely between the hotel and Convention Center in a climate-controlled, art-filled corridor.

Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will be designed by internationally acclaimed architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia and his firm, Miami-based Arquitectonica. The team also includes Stonehill Taylor, a New York City based hospitality-focused architecture and interior design firm in charge of designing the hotel’s interior lobby and lounges, ballroom, meeting and hotel rooms, and all common areas; EoA, a local architecture, interior design and landscape firm tasked with designing the pool deck hospitality features of the hotel; and Arquitectonica GEO, who will lead the creation of the pedestrian promenades and landscapes.

As part of the improvements to the area, the nearby Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater is also receiving renovations to its back of house areas. The theater, which is owned by the City of Miami Beach and managed by Live Nation, was once home to “The Jackie Gleason Show” and remains one of the most beloved cultural venues in Miami Beach. These renovations will ensure the iconic institution will have the ability to continue to present music, theater and dance to the expanding community of the Convention Center district.

The Grand Hyatt Miami Beach project also includes landscaped pedestrian promenades on surrounding streets, bike sharing stations, connectivity with public transit routes, dedicated ridesharing pick-up and drop-off zones, and direct access between the Convention Center and Lincoln Road. The project’s resiliency and sustainability measures include storm water management and reuse, flood risk mitigation, and the use of solar power – all of which are designed to ensure operational continuity during weather events.