Riviera Dining Group's MILA Miami Crowned The Highest-Grossing Independent Restaurant In America

MILA Miami – Riviera Dining Group’s (RDG) flagship destination which has come to represent the height of Miami Beach glamor — has been ranked number #1 on Restaurant Business’ Top 100 Independents 2025 as the highest-grossing independent restaurant in the United States.

In 2022, the restaurant ranked #5 — reflecting the prior year’s sales and marking its first full year in business — and held that position again in 2023. In the 2024 ranking, it rose to #2, generating $49,088,032 in sales. For the 2025 list, MILA has now achieved the top spot with $51,115,747 in sales, a resounding testament to the visionary entrepreneurship behind the concept’s ever-growing prestige. This distinction places MILA in the company of top-ranking establishments like Pastis in New York City, Le Diplomate in Washington D.C., and Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami.

Riviera Dining Group’s founding endeavor, MILA debuted in 2020 and has since established itself as an international benchmark for experiential hospitality; one that blends fine dining, design, art, and emotion. This refined rooftop restaurant, rooted in a “MediterrAsian” culinary philosophy, not only thrived in the face of a global pandemic. It evolved into a dynamic, multi-venue destination. In addition to the MediterrAsian restaurant, MILA houses three distinct concepts: the 10-seat MILA Omakase, one of the most luxurious sushi counters in Miami; MILA Lounge, a coveted nightlife space redefining Miami’s after-dinner culture; and MILA MM, a members-only destination that has since expanded to four total locations across RDG’s portfolio.

2024 was a milestone year for MILA, marking the elevation of its menus and the expansion of its Learning & Development Department, designed to groom current and future leaders across all levels of the organization. “Miami is an incredibly competitive market, but MILA stands out because we offer something holistic,” said Gregory Galy, Founder & CEO of Riviera Dining Group. “It’s not just about food; it’s the full sensory journey: the design, the music, the service rhythm, the brand aura. We are proof that creativity and discipline can coexist beautifully.”

The innovative combination of fine dining, exclusive nightlife, and genuine hospitality has become RDG’s signature, and propelled the company’s remarkable trajectory over the last half-decade. One of the key rising stars of the contemporary U.S. restaurant landscape, RDG will continue expanding beyond Miami, into New York, Las Vegas, and Dubai. The empire’s brands include CASA NEOS, AVA MEDITERRAEGEAN, and CLAUDIE; and the forthcoming CASA NEOS MM Lounge.

“We are deeply honored to see MILA recognized as the #1 Independent Restaurant in the United States,” said Galy. “This distinction is more than a ranking. It is truly the culmination of years of vision, discipline, and collective passion across our organization. From the kitchen to the floor, from our reservation and sales teams to our marketing department, every detail, gesture, and moment of care has contributed to this milestone.” Among those essential team members are Chef Michaël Michaelidis, a veteran of the kitchens of Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon, who leads MILA’s culinary program; and designers Olya Volkova and Lazaro Rosa-Violan, who drew inspiration from nature’s elegance and the Wabi-Sabi philosophy to create a multi-sensory environment where culinary artistry meets sophisticated social energy.

Reflecting on MILA’s future, Galy added, “Our ambition has always been to elevate hospitality into an art form: where cuisine, design, and emotion converge to create something truly timeless, while always putting the guest experience at the forefront; because it is a community of guests and extraordinary members that brings MILA to life. Their support touches us deeply and reinforces our mission: to craft experiences that move people, awaken the senses, and redefine the boundaries of modern dining.” “This recognition belongs as much to our team as to the vibrant community of guests who have made MILA part of their lives.”

OKO Group and The Bastion Collection Partner To Introduce 'Seia', A New Hospitality Concept Atop 830 Brickell

OKO Group, the international real estate development firm founded by investor and developer Vlad Doronin and The Bastion Collection, a global leader in fine dining and luxury hospitality with a portfolio distinguished by 10 Michelin Stars and 3 Michelin Keys since 2019, have revealed a landmark partnership atop 830 Brickell, Miami’s premier 55-story Class A office tower.

The first building of its kind to be developed in the city for over a decade, 830 Brickell is a fitting home for the collaboration between OKO and Bastion who will bring a distinctive blend of business sophistication and vibrant social energy to Miami’s culinary landscape—filling a necessary niche in the city. The debut concept from the partnership introduces Seia, a contemporary Italian restaurant and private membership club located on the highest two floors of the tower (54th and 55th), complete with an expansive open terrace and panoramic views over Miami’s bustling financial district.

The two intrinsically connected yet distinct spaces, with interiors designed by Zervudachi, Roberts and Macadam London, will launch in 2026, complemented by an exclusive all-day café available to 830 Brickell tenants. Developed by OKO Group and Cain International, the newly delivered contemporary office tower brings a prestigious commercial offering to Miami’s Brickell Financial District – often referred to as the “Wall Street of the South.” The fully-leased building’s roster of best-in-class global tenants includes Microsoft, Citadel, Kirkland & Ellis, Marsh, Sidley Austin, Corient (formerly known as CI Financial), Thoma Bravo, Santander Bank, A-CAP, among others.

A distinguished partner to bring a refined hospitality offering to the area, The Bastion Collection’s stellar reputation in Miami is underscored by two acclaimed restaurants in the Design District: L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, the city’s sole two-Michelin-starred establishment, and Le Jardinier, honored with one Michelin star.

Speaking about the collaboration, Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of OKO Group, said, "With 830 Brickell, we set out to deliver an international calibre of architecture and lifestyle to the heart of Miami's financial district. Partnering with The Bastion Collection to develop Seia and Seia Club elevates that vision and introduces a new benchmark for culinary and exclusive social experiences in the city. Together, we are creating a destination that reflects Miami's global stature, bringing a new dimension of sophistication and world-class gastronomy to Brickell.’

“We’re proud to partner with premier developer OKO Group on Seia, which we know will become a crown jewel within the iconic 830 Brickell,” said Jamal Daniel, owner of The Bastion Collection. “This project is an extraordinary opportunity to bring our culinary and operational expertise to Miami’s most prestigious address, introducing concepts designed to evolve into institutions that serve Brickell’s corporate clientele by day. By night, Seia will become a destination for those seeking an elevated social experience.”

Images via The Bastion Collection

First Look at AVA MediterrAegean From Riviera Dining Group Set to Debut in Coconut Grove Later This Week

From the Mediterranean Sea to the shores of the Aegean, AVA MediterrAegean was born from resilience, natural beauty, and a philosophy of togetherness. A story of flavors, design, and community is ready to unfold this November 2025 in Coconut Grove.

Set to open later this week in Coconut Grove, AVA MediterrAegean is a modern Greek agora concept by Riviera Dining Group that reimagines Mediterranean dining as a multi-sensory journey where cuisine, design, and atmosphere converge. Inspired by the Greek words for life, water, island, and bird, AVA embodies vitality, freedom, and connection, offering a transportive escape that is both timeless and contemporary. With locations in Winter Park and Miami, AVA blends French technique, Mediterranean flavors, and cosmopolitan sophistication. The menu pays tribute to the Cycladic region, balancing tradition and modern interpretation with dishes that highlight the purity of the earth and sea.

Extending the experience beyond the dining room, AVA MM offers an exclusive members’ retreat featuring refined Japanese cuisine and curated cultural programming.

AVA MediterrAegean is located at 2889 Mcfarlane Rd in Coconut Grove.

Images via Riviera Dining Group

Spicy Hospitality Group Opens Celebrated Milanese Trattoria 'Le Specialità' In Miami Design District

Spicy Hospitality Group, the visionary hospitality collective at the intersection of cuisine, culture, and design—and the team behind The Joyce, with several forthcoming concepts in Miami, New York, and California—has officially opened U.S. debut of Le Specialità in the Miami Design District.

A Milanese institution since 1977, Le Specialità is celebrated for its authentic Italian cooking, trattoria spirit, and iconic pizza—a local gem where honest food is elevated by grounded hospitality, exceptional ingredients, and a touch of glamour. The restaurant embodies Italian dining in its purest form: genuine, familiar, and always exciting—an experience that moves from an elegant dinner to a spirited serata, where every night feels like a gathering among friends.

Since opening on Via Pietro Calvi nearly five decades ago, Le Specialità has defined the Milanese dining experience: simple yet sophisticated, seasonal, and rooted in the finest ingredients. Guided by the Italian philosophy that food, wine, and hospitality are extensions of art and lifestyle, the restaurant captures the balance between Italian familiarity and fine-dining precision, where hospitality feels effortless and deeply human. Its Miami outpost carries this legacy forward, channeling the creative pulse of its new home to create a setting where art meets taste. Here, the neighborhood trattoria elevates the most genuine, laid-back Italian dining experience through uncompromising quality, bridging Milan’s timeless dining culture with the city’s ever-evolving energy.

“Bringing Le Specialità to the U.S. marks a major milestone for Spicy Hospitality Group. The restaurant has long been a cornerstone of Milan’s dining culture and the Miami Design District is the ideal setting for its American debut, reflecting our vision to build a collection of restaurants that embody the creativity, ambition, and energy of this city.” Said Andre Sakhai, Principal & Founder, Spicy Hospitality Group

MENU & BEVERAGE PROGRAM

At the heart of Le Specialità’s legacy is its dedication to simplicity and excellence. The restaurant’s approach to Italian cuisine emphasizes seasonality, quality, and authenticity, honoring the traditions that have defined its Milanese roots while introducing new creations inspired by Miami’s international palate.

The menu spans a refined selection of housemade pastas, seafood, and meats, complemented by the restaurant’s signature pizza offerings, a hallmark of its Milanese heritage. Known for transforming the classic pizza into a local legend—light, crisp, and precisely leavened—Le Specialità brings that same craftsmanship to Miami with selections including the Margherita, Truffle Pizza, and Piccantissimi with chili pepper pesto and pine nuts.

The secondi offerings pay homage to timeless Italian preparations with dishes such as Branzino alla Siciliana, Dover Sole Meunière, and Veal Milanese, each executed with balance and precision. The menu concludes with a selection of refined Italian desserts, including house-made gelato in pistachio, dark chocolate, nocciola, vanilla, crema italiana, and salted caramel, as well as a classic tiramisu layered with mascarpone mousse, espresso, ladyfingers, and cocoa.

The robust beverage program is anchored by a 260-label wine list rooted in Italy’s most renowned regions and complemented by select vintages from Burgundy and Bordeaux—among them 1990 Le Pin, 1986 Pétrus, and 1952 Pavie. The list features an exceptional collection of Barolo, Barbaresco, and Brunello di Montalcino dating back three decades. The program is rounded out by signature cocktails such as the Milano Mai Tai, Fragola Basilico, and Espresso Italiano, each designed to pair seamlessly with the menu.

ART & DESIGN

Central to the concept is an eclectic art collection curated by Andre Sakhai, featuring vintage Italian photography alongside works from his personal archives, including pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, KAWS, Rashid Johnson, Peter Saul, Joel Mesler, John Wesley, Takashi Murakami, and Richard Prince. Together, these elements create an atmosphere that captures the artistic soul of Milan and the character of its new Miami home.

“The art sets the tone for the whole space. It’s what brings personality and depth to the design. We wanted pieces that felt authentic to Milan but still made sense in Miami—something timeless, bold, and unexpected. The collection helps tell the story of two cultures that share a love for creativity, color, and expression.” Said Andre Sakhai, Principal & Founder, Spicy Hospitality Group

For its Miami debut, Spicy Hospitality Group enlisted the acclaimed architecture and design firm Rockwell Group to create a space where Milan meets Miami. Drawing from Milan’s radical design movement of the 1960s and 1970s and Miami’s colorful, celebratory culture, the interiors embrace a “radical retro chic” ethos—sophisticated yet playful, glamorous yet unpretentious.

“The design concept for Le Specialita blends the bold, playful, and artistic spirit of Milan in the 1960s and 70s with the rich, dynamic, and festive culture of present-day Miami. Sweeping curves and oversized graphic elements define each space in the restaurant.” Said David Rockwell, Founder and President, Rockwell Group.

Guests first encounter the 100-seat restaurant through a lively cluster of sidewalk seating before entering a dynamic interior defined by sweeping curves, bold geometries, and rich textures. Standout elements include:

• A green lavastone bar set with red leather stools, backed by a glowing mirrored wine wall with champagne-nickel accents.

• Terrazzo floors embedded with metal stripe inlay, echoing the diagonal wood beams above, nodding to Milan’s Supergraphic era.

• A dramatic pizza oven clad in black-and-white terrazzo mosaic, framed by a wood butcher block chef’s bar that allows guests to witness the action up close.

• Dining areas punctuated by striped leather booths inspired by vintage Ferraris, lavastone tabletops, and bold lacquered finishes.

• Custom furnishings and fixtures sourced in collaboration with Artemest, the destination gallery for Italian design and décor

• The powder rooms serve as whimsical “portals” between Milan and Miami, with colorful chandeliers, pink terrazzo, and pastel custom mirrors. The outdoor terrace extends the vibrant atmosphere with striped canopies, colorful upholstery, and space for casual al fresco dining.

Images via Spicy Hospitality Group

THE ST. REGIS BAL HARBOUR RESORT DEBUTS BH PRIME STEAKHOUSE

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort has introduced its first dedicated steakhouse, BH Prime, marking a significant addition to the resort’s dining portfolio. The new restaurant replaces the former BH Burger Bar, transforming the space into a refined, dinner-focused venue that caters to both hotel guests and local patrons. With a design rooted in warm wood, leather, and subtle contemporary touches, BH Prime offers a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere in line with the resort’s Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond status.

BH Prime’s menu centers on classic steakhouse offerings with global accents. Highlights include the Miyazaki A5 Japanese Wagyu New York Strip, a 32 oz. USDA Prime Longbone Tomahawk, and a 14 oz. USDA Prime Boneless Ribeye, served with a signature smoking tableside finish. The raw bar features selections like chilled jumbo shrimp, seasonal oysters, and a royal seafood tower, while main courses also include miso-glazed sea bass and Ora King salmon with Mediterranean-inspired accompaniments.

In a nod to the space’s previous identity, a selection of upscale burgers remains on the menu, including a Bison Burger with maple pepper bacon, cambozola cheese, and Buffalo Trace BBQ sauce. The sides and starters are indulgent, ranging from truffle parmesan fries to lobster-infused “Angry Shrimp” and Gruyère mac & cheese.

BH Prime is also introducing a caviar program in partnership with luxury purveyor Petrossian, offering access to rare selections such as Tsar Imperial Ossetra and Royal Daurenki. The bar program was developed in collaboration with international mixologists from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangkok, and includes a curated wine list and an inventive cocktail selection. Executive Pastry Chef Nagypsy leads the dessert offerings, with standout items like a salted caramel crème brûlée and a layered chocolate ganache cake served with Cuban coffee ice cream.

The concept was brought to life by by General Manager Carlo Javakhia, a veteran of the global restaurant scene with past projects in Athens, Dubai, and Doha. He’s joined by Executive Chef Adrian Colameco, a Florida native whose cooking blends classical technique with Latin influences. Their leadership is complemented by the resort’s Director of Food & Beverage Fabien Gnemmi, whose Michelin-starred experience across Europe adds further depth to the project.

BH Prime seats 58 guests total and is open daily from 4:30 PM to 11:00 PM. The restaurant is open to the public, and in-room dining service is available for hotel guests. As Bal Harbour continues to attract affluent travelers and residents, BH Prime adds a new layer of luxury to the area's dining scene, positioning itself as a go-to for elegant evening meals in one of Miami’s most upscale beachfront neighborhoods.

Pura Vida Opens Coconut Grove Flagship Location With New Signature Gelato Concept

Pura Vida Miami, South Florida’s premier all-day cafe and wellness brand, has opened its first flagship location in the heart of the historic Coconut Grove neighborhood. Marking a major milestone for the Miami-born brand, the expansive 6,000-square-foot space at 3000 Grand Avenue is now Pura Vida Miami’s largest outpost yet and introduces the brand’s new gelato concept. This flagship location reflects years of thoughtful growth and intentional evolution, serving as a central hub for the community, where Pura Vida Miami’s signature experience is elevated in every detail—from design and layout to new culinary innovations.

“Our 34th and most stunning location yet, our Coconut Grove flagship brings an elevated design and the exclusive debut of our better-for-you gelato — a true celebration of everything we love. In designing Coconut Grove, we set out to create a space that feels both refined and effortless, where every detail — from the finishes to the flow — reflects the lifestyle that defines Pura Vida Miami and sets the tone for how the brand is evolving visually. Our goal is to cultivate environments that are warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the communities we serve — and we hope to bring just that to the Coconut Grove neighborhood.” Said Jennifer Horev, Chief Brand Officer of Pura Vida Miami & Horev Hospitality.

As with all Pura Vida Miami locations, wellness goes beyond just nutritious food; it’s about creating an all-encompassing, exceptional dining experience that fuels both body and mind. This flagship location embodies the brand’s ethos with an elevated design, featuring natural stoneware and organic textures throughout—including travertine, Taj Mahal quartzite, and Venetian plaster—alongside custom furnishings and high-end finishes. Woven grass pendants add a soft, natural warmth from above, complementing the raw, tactile materials used throughout the space, while stone walls subtly evoke the raw, sculptural beauty of a Mediterranean grotto. The space is defined by soaring 30-foot ceilings and anchored by a large banyan tree situated at the heart of the store, reinforcing the connection to nature and the neighborhood’s native lush surroundings.

A new Market Display has also debuted at this location, highlighting Pura Vida Miami’s expanding product line—from clean protein bars and wellness-focused snacks to apparel, homeware, and signature scent. Designed by Chief Brand Officer Jennifer Horev, the flagship features an airy, open-floor layout that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces—an inviting setting where guests can relax and connect at any time of day.

The Coconut Grove Flagship exclusively debuts the brand’s newest concept: Gelato by Pura Vida Miami. Rooted in tradition and developed with the same unwavering dedication to health, wellness, and clean ingredients, this “better-for-you” gelato honors the flavor and texture of traditional Italian gelato—crafted in-house, naturally sweetened with trehalose, entirely gluten-free, and free from refined sugars. Made fresh daily with consciously chosen, high-quality ingredients, every detail is designed with intention, allowing guests to indulge without compromise.

Signature flavors include Salted Pistachio, Chocolate Hazelnut, and Welcome to Miami—inspired by one of Pura Vida Miami’s beloved smoothies—served in house-made gluten-free waffle cones with pure, homemade chocolate. For those on the go, these signature flavors, along with Fior di Vanilla, will also be available in to-go pints, offering a taste of Gelato by Pura Vida Miami at any time of day.

The Coconut Grove neighborhood can anticipate Pura Vida Miami’s thoughtfully curated menu, featuring its famed All-Day Breakfast offerings—highlighting a range of avocado toasts and pasture-raised eggs, each paired perfectly with artisanal coffee, matcha drinks, and teas. Clean, chef-driven salads can be customized with high-quality proteins, alongside colorful wraps, sandwiches, and bowls with diverse bases and proteins to accommodate various dietary preferences. An array of superfood smoothies, cold-pressed juices, wellness shots, açaí bowls, and fresh-baked goods further enhance the menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone—whether vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free. With the launch of its flagship in Coconut Grove, Pura Vida Miami delivers its "Health is Happiness" philosophy that seamlessly blends nutritious dining with a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere.

“We are incredibly excited to debut our flagship location in Coconut Grove, a milestone that marks the evolution of not only our brand but also the city of Miami. We carefully chose this historic neighborhood as it is one of the fastest-growing areas of the city, and we found an incredible opportunity to be part of its transformation. Not only will this be our largest location to date, but it will also introduce our new gelato concept—a project we’ve worked tirelessly to perfect. This flagship will serve as the heartbeat of the brand, seamlessly blending our values of health, community, and sustainability into a space where friends and neighbors can gather, nourish themselves, and enjoy an elevated dining experience.” Said Omer Horev, CEO and Founder of Pura Vida Miami & Horev Hospitality.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Omer and Jennifer Horev, the brand was born out of their need for healthy, all-day dining options—a vision that has since fueled its expansion to over 30 locations across South Florida and into New York. What started as a small passion project has transformed into a wellness empire, redefining how communities view healthy dining—prioritizing high-quality ingredients, accessibility, and an environment that supports a balanced lifestyle—all while creating over 1,500 careers across South Florida and most recently, New York. Since opening in 2012, Pura Vida Miami has grown from a single café in the South of Fifth neighborhood into a leader in South Florida’s health and wellness space.

Images via Pura Vida

Forward Hospitality Group and CHEF RAHEEM SEALEY Open Asian Smokehouse Shiso in Wynwood

Chef Raheem Sealey, known for his influential roles at KYU and Drinking Pig, in partnership with Forward Hospitality Group, have successfully opened Shiso—an Asian Smokehouse that uniquely fuses Caribbean influences, Japanese precision, and wood-fired BBQ techniques.

Drawing on his roots from St. Croix and refined training at Le Cordon Bleu in Miami, Chef Sealey has created a menu that celebrates global flavors with innovative twists. The dishes, crafted for sharing, have quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Standout offerings such as the “Shiso Chicken Please”—a Cornish hen presented both smoked and fried with a distinctive white BBQ sauce—and the inventive Oxtail Gunkan, which layers smoked BBQ oxtail with pickle relish, rice, and a house-made oxtail ‘ju-su’ wrapped in nori, are a testament to the chef’s passion and culinary mastery.

Shiso’s physical space marries raw urban energy and refined elegance in its contemporary design. The venue, located at 239 NW 28th Street, offers an environment where exposed concrete beams adorned with graffiti art contrast with an illuminated quartz stone bar and polished weathered brick corridors. Inside, serpentine banquettes and expansive views of Miami’s horizon invite guests to linger and savor the dynamic atmosphere.

The restaurant’s impact is further extended by its striking 6,500-square-foot rooftop area. This vibrant space features a 35-seat racetrack-shaped bar with a retractable roof and semi-private dining cabanas, all set amidst a 2,000-square-foot green garden teeming with palm trees. This outdoor setting has quickly become a hotspot for those seeking a unique blend of culinary excellence and social engagement.

Inside Shiso, the dining experience goes beyond food. An open-kitchen layout infuses the space with culinary theater, where chandeliers illuminate dining areas framed by local murals and exposed brick. A 15-seat Chef’s Counter offers guests an exclusive, interactive Omakase experience, further enhanced by the expertise of Miami-based mixologist James MacInnes, who leads a world-class bar program emphasizing both craft and spectacle.

The venue is equally noted for its artistic elements. From a captivating street art mural that guides guests toward the rooftop, to a Harajuku-inspired bathroom featuring bold anime art, every detail reflects Wynwood’s creative spirit. Additionally, an origami-inspired entrance crowned with a sculptural wooden paper crane sets the stage for what has become a landmark destination blending food, culture, and art.

Now open Tuesday through Sunday from 5 PM to close, Shiso has quickly become more than just another restaurant—it is a dynamic hub where Miami’s culinary innovation meets the creative energy of Wynwood. The venue invites diners to connect, explore, and celebrate an integrated experience where tradition and innovation coexist. With its bustling indoor dining space and extensive rooftop area, Shiso is set to remain a centerpiece in Miami’s vibrant dining scene.

America's Top-Grossing Steakhouse, Maple & Ash, Now Open in Miami Worldcenter

Maple Hospitality Group, the visionary team behind acclaimed restaurants Maple & Ash, Eight Bar, Monarch, and Kessaku, has opened the Miami location of its flagship award-winning concept, Maple & Ash, in Downtown Miami’s Miami Worldcenter. The two-story, 22,000-square-foot venture - which will see Eight Bar and The Studio open at a later date - represents the group’s largest and boldest project yet blending culinary mastery, unparalleled hospitality, and unrestrained luxury. Led by two MICHELIN-star chef Danny Grant, Maple & Ash brings its modern Wood-Fired steakhouse flair and vibrant, approachable energy to Miami’s dynamic dining scene. Maple & Ash’s first location opened in 2015 in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, followed by Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2019.

“We are thrilled to join the Miami community, where diners appreciate refinement alongside a sense of fun and spontaneity,” said Chef Danny Grant, Chef/Partner of Maple Hospitality Group. “Building on the incredible success of our Chicago and Scottsdale locations, this expansion marks an exciting time for Maple & Ash as Miami’s culinary landscape has evolved significantly over the past decade, now emphasizing quality and sophistication across all facets of dining.”

From the moment guests step into Maple & Ash, they’re embraced by an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. The menu seamlessly marries elevated classics with locally inspired creations, offering something for every palate. Standout experiences include the “I Don’t Give a F*@k” tasting menu, which invites guests to surrender to the chef’s imagination, and the Fire-Roasted Seafood Tower, a bold reimagining of the traditional seafood display, where hearth-roasted shellfish are finished with a tantalizing mix of garlic butter and chili oil.

For meat lovers, the Wagyu Experience features premium Kobe beef sourced directly from Japanese auctions. The Ricotta Agnolotti, affectionately known as "Pillows of Love," delights with its decadent, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. For the grand finale, try the Sundae Service, a playful and extravagant take on a childhood favorite guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. At Maple & Ash, every detail is crafted to surprise, delight, and make every guest feel like the evening’s most cherished guest.

A celebrated part of the Maple & Ash experience is its extensive wine and cocktail programs. Named ‘one of the most outstanding (wine programs) in the world’ by Wine Spectator, the restaurant boasts a 2,500 wine list featuring bottles from around the world, including steakhouse classics and little-known producers. The bar program is a top-flight collection of custom-crafted cocktails and rare spirits from around the world. The cocktail menu offers classic and modern creations crafted with house-made syrups and compressed sodas. Signature cocktails include the IDGAF Old Fashioned (Glenfiddich 21yr, pedro ximenez, and maple reduction, amaro, chocolate truffle bitters, 24k gold), the Wild Jorge (Patrón Silver, aloe, kumquat aperitif, coconut, lime, habanero bitters), and the famous Espresso Martini tower.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Maple & Ash to Miami, a city that has truly emerged as one of the most dynamic and flourishing culinary markets in the country,” said Jim Lasky, Managing Partner of Maple Hospitality Group. “Miami’s energy, cultural diversity, and appetite for extraordinary dining experiences make it the perfect home for us. Maple & Ash is a beating heart - a living, breathing creature - that guests will feel and understand the moment they walk into the dining space; it’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate life in a way that’s uniquely Maple & Ash.”

Designed by longtime collaborator Studio K, Maple & Ash’s Miami location blends bold luxury with playful touches that redefine the classic steakhouse. The space features distinct areas like the Bar Lounge, Dining Room, The Salon, and the Atrium, crowned by the “Upside Palm,” an artistic centerpiece reimagining Miami’s iconic palm tree that elevates the design with its 10,464 crystal beads.Maple & Ash’s open kitchen energizes the room, offering a full view of the chefs working with the wood-burning hearth. Unique to Miami is inviting “nooks” that deliver personalized experiences, such as Bar Bocuse, a cozy space that brings culinary dreams to life, allowing guests to indulge in champagne, caviar, and Jamon Iberico, and Petit Bocuse, where guests can interact with chefs in the kitchen over rare cuts and culinary surprises for an intimate dining adventure. Unique to the Miami location is the introduction of a private space called Studio at Maple & Ash. At the Studio, guests are welcomed to an intimate, multi-functional hideaway that features the laid-back comfort of a sophisticated lounge and the hidden allure of a speakeasy with its exclusive, clandestine vibe. It's a sanctuary where cozy seating, ambient lighting, and a touch of mystery invite meaningful conversations and unforgettable nights out in a stylish, immersive atmosphere. With its signature blend of culinary & design artistry, playful sophistication, impeccable service, and immersive dining experiences, Maple & Ash Miami is set to make a memorable impact on the city’s dining scene and establish itself as an essential destination for residents and visitors alike.

Maple & Ash is open daily for dinner, and the Studio will be open Thursday - Sunday.

Images via World Red Eye

MIKA by Six Michelin Starred Chef Michael White Reveals Its New Interiors At The Plaza Coral Gables

MIKA by six Michelin-starred chef Michael White has revealed its lavish new interiors by Bishop Design at The Plaza Coral Gables. White's first standalone venture in Miami, in partnership with Alex Pirez and Matt Safchik, MIKA highlights his classic approach to coastal flavors, blending the bounty of Italy, France, and beyond with South Florida’s exceptional seafood and produce. The menu features delicate crudos, house-made pastas, and expertly grilled proteins, paired with classic cocktails and an extensive wine selection from a striking 1,700-bottle cellar.

For Chef Michael White’s devoted followers, MIKA offers a chance to revisit his signature dishes—like lobster burrata and fusilli with bone marrow—while also discovering new creations crafted for the South Florida palate, such as spaghetti with blue crab and caviar. Emphasizing local, high-quality ingredients and uncomplicated elegance, the menu showcases his latest culinary creations. As White himself puts it, MIKA is “truffles in blue jeans”—where refined flavors meet effortless sophistication, all tied together by the hospitality of home.

Located at The Plaza Coral Gables and designed by Bishop Design, the space reflects timeless Mediterranean elegance with natural stone, warm textures, and handcrafted lighting. MIKA aims to be a neighborhood staple, offering a welcoming ambiance for everything from casual dinners to business gatherings and stylish evenings out.

Reserve Cup Returns to Miami and Announces Expansion to Other Cities

The highly anticipated Reserve Cup, a flagship event by Reserve Padel, is set to return to Miami from January 23–25, 2025. Building on its successful inaugural tournament in 2024, the event will kick off the newly expanded Reserve Cup Series, featuring three weeks of elite padel competition in three major cities. This evolution positions the Reserve Cup Series as a premier showcase of the world’s top padel players, competing for the highest prize money in the sport’s history exceeding $1.7 million.

Led by Reserve Padel Founder and CEO Wayne Boich, alongside Honorary Chairman and Co-Captain Jimmy Butler, the Reserve Cup has gained recognition for its intense matches, star-studded lineups, and exclusive entertainment experiences. The 2025 expansion aims to bring this unique blend of sports and luxury to a broader audience, starting at Reserve Miami Seaplane.

“Part of our goal at Reserve has always been to showcase padel at the highest level,” said Wayne Boich. “Following the success of the inaugural event in 2024—and the overwhelming excitement from the players—we knew we had to take it further.”

The Reserve Cup Miami promises three days of exhilarating matches featuring two elite teams of top-ranked players led by star captains. This year’s captains include 5x World Series Champion and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter and famed comedian and padel enthusiast Andrew Schulz. Beyond the action on the court, the event will offer exclusive parties, live entertainment, and premium food and beverage experiences. Guests can enjoy the ‘Reserve Club,’ a private space with unparalleled court views and a VIP culinary experience curated by Major Food Group. Additional dining options include offerings from Pura Vida Miami, Jimmy Butler’s Big Face Coffee, and Spicy Hospitality’s The Joyce.

The 2025 Reserve Cup Series will feature 16 of the world’s top-ranked padel players, including Arturo Coello, Agustin Tapia, Alejandro Galan, and Federico Chingotto. Players will compete in three distinct tournaments throughout the year, with performance-based rankings adding a competitive edge. Tickets for the Reserve Cup Miami are available now, with options for daily and three-day passes. To purchase, visit Universe. Following the Miami tournament, Reserve will reveal the next host city in this groundbreaking series.

The Reserve Cup Series represents a significant leap forward for padel, combining world-class competition with unparalleled luxury and entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to witness this transformative event in Miami this January.