Author Archives: timallen

A Magic City Weekend Beach Brunch

It’s the middle of the week and you may already be setting your sights on where to enjoy a good weekend brunch. If you can’t seem to make up your mind, here are a couple of suggestions you may want to check out.

Upland Miami on Collins Avenue has a menu inspired by California. Located in the trendy South of Fifth area, guests can dine on brunch items like pistachio pizza, chilaquiles, and snapper. For just $26 you can choose the bottomless brunch which includes Florida citrus infused mimosas or all the bloody Marys your body can handle.

Also on Collins Avenue is Cecconi’s which has a $65 buffet-style brunch. You have the choice of risottos, a raw bar, breads, and so much more. End the brunch with a bite from the dessert table which features cookies, cakes, fruit, gelato, and more. Similar to Upland Miami, Cecconi’s guests can upgrade to bottomless prosecco, rose, or mimosas for $25.

Up in Bal Harbour to the north, Josh’s Deli on Harding Avenue bills itself as an “undelicatessen” experience. Corned beef benediction with poached eggs and pancakes topped with white chocolate and blueberry are among the brunch options that are perfectly sized for two or three people.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in theContinuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum South Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

Where to Eat in April

Every so often, we like to highlight some of the best places to enjoy a meal in South Florida. You can never have too many options when it comes to food choices, so why limit yourself? Here are some suggestions to consider as we make it through the rest of April.

The Jim and Neesie is located inside the recent Generator Hostel, on Collins Avenue right here in Miami Beach. Enjoy a variety of drinks plus cocktails and plenty of distinct dishes like crispy skin airline chicken or the citrus roasted carrots. The ambiance is the perfect fusion of hip yet approachable.

Moving over to neighbor Miami, Maska on 1st Avenue features an Indian inspired menu courtesy of Michelin level chef Hemant Mathur. The menu also incorporates some modern dishes. Some items you may wish to try include duck-filled tacos, one of the various stuffed breads, or maybe the much beloved tandoori lamb chops.

Just north of Maska is Swan & Bar Bevy. A collaborative effort by David Grutman (a local Miami hospitality mogul), singer and producer Pharrell Williams, and Europe Top Chef winner Jean Imbert, this place offering a “modern chic” has the glitz, the glam, and the taste. Go for the caviar tossed spaghetti or head upstairs for a drink at Bohemian-influenced Bar Bevy.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum condos for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

Miami Is Ready to Proceed with Its Miami Beach Transit Plan

 

After much evaluation, Miami city commissioners have decided to proceed with the highly anticipated beach corridor transit plan that will connect the city to its neighbor Miami Beach. Part of Miami’s Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Plan which was introduced back in 2017, the ambitious effort focuses on implementing premium transit technology as well as an express bus express network. This premium transit may include a light rail system.

Part of the elaborate transit plan would focus on Miami to Miami Beach as well as improved transit between 5th Street at Alton Road in Miami Beach to the Government Center in Downtown Miami and other areas. These rapid transit corridors and express buses are at least partially aimed at increasing connectivity and transportation for nearly eighty percent of Miami-Dade residents that travel beyond their residential district to get to their jobs every day.

Are you excited to see the SMART plan finally move into motion? How do you feel about this lofty plan to improve transit between Miami and Miami Beach? You can read more about the plan by visiting the following link: https://www.miamitodaynews.com/2019/04/10/miami-ready-to-move-ahead-on-miami-beach-transit-connector.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum condos for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

Trader Joe’s Is Coming Soon

It’s been a long time coming, but Trader Joe’s is getting ready to show Miami Beach residents what all of the brouhaha is about. Announced a pair of years ago, the store was expected to open last year, but that date has since changed. Though no definitive date has been given, significant progress has been made and it looks like the much-beloved tropical grocer will open its doors sooner rather than later.

When it opens, Trader Joe’s will be located in a five-story building intended for mixed-use called 17 West which will have to close to 30,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space. Trader Joe’s will comprise over 11,000 square feet.

The Miami Beach iteration of Trader Joe’s will be the second to debut in Miami-Dade County, the first one being in Pinecrest which opened in 2013. There is also a pair of Trader Joe’s in Davie and Pembroke Pines. The grocer has earned a fiercely loyal following for its prices, many free samples, complimentary coffee, and its ultra-flexible return policy which allows customers to return any item regardless of the reason, even if the item has already been opened.

Are you excited about the imminent arrival of Trader Joe’s?

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in Continuum South Beach.If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum North Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on current sales and rentals.

Michelin Starred Sushi Is Coming to South Beach


Back in the 1980s, a pair named George Yuji Koshoji and Carlos Augusto Carvalho met in São Paulo, Brazil, became acquaintances, and decided to join forces to open a sushi restaurant called Kosushi. Now, this may not seem all that impressive until you realize that in a country where just eighteen of the restaurants have received a prestigious Michelin star, Kosushi has managed the astounding feat of scoring a star four times in a row! Besides the taste of the food, it has earned a reputation for the meticulous attention placed on how a plate is served to make it look like a work of art, albeit an edible one.

If you can’t make it to Brazil, no worries. Kosushi is getting ready to debut its Michelin-approved menu for the first time in the United States, and it has chosen none other than South Beach as the inaugural location! The 3,300+ square foot eatery will accommodate up to 66 guests and it will feature a unique wooden cube ceiling to add to the ambiance.

There will also be a sushi bar for up to ten people and a cocktail bar with drinks devised by mixologist Marcio Silva, a fellow Brazilian.
Kosushi is tentatively scheduled to open in the South of Fifth area next month on the 17th, just in time to coincide with the 31st anniversary of the original Kosushi in São Paulo.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum South Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

A Taste of Italy is Arriving in South Beach

Looking for a taste of Italy in Miami Beach? Next month, a new eatery will be opening its doors in South Beach, welcoming anyone looking for a taste of the Amalfi Coast, including influences from Naples and the various villages found along the coast. Dubbed Amare Ristorante, the restaurant will welcome guests at its home in the South of Fifth area.

The word “amare” translates as “to love” in Italian and the food is definitely one you’ll fall in love with. The menu is being devised by chef Cosimo Cassano, who has already cultivated his culinary experience working at the Michelin star certified Bacco Osteria in Puglia. Expect to find plenty of options that are rooted in Italian tradition while utilizing fresh local vegetables, spices made in house, and plenty of fresh meat.

Amare will be able to accommodate a total of 54 people in its indoor dining area adorned in colors such as coral azure and white along with Napoli ceramic tiles painted by hand. Since it will offer indoor or al fresco dining, there will also be a terrace spanning well over 3,500 square feet providing vistas of South Beach.Amare’s Ristorante’s address will be 1 Collins Avenue.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum South Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

Miami Beach May Say Goodbye to Sunscreen

 

Sunscreen is a requirement when going to the beach and yet some recent news suggests Miami Beach may be having second thoughts about allowing it.Octinoxate and oxybenzone are two chemicals that are found in leading sunscreen products by names like Banana Boat, intended to deflect the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. However, Miami Beach may become the fourth tourist-friendly city to prevent this type of sunblock due to the environmental harm these chemicals can do to its sensitive coral reefs.

Should the ban go into effect, Miami Beach would follow in the footsteps of another city well-known for its tourism: Key West. The state of Hawaii has also pledged to ban products containing these chemicals by 2021.As for Miami Beach, there is still no definitive timeframe as to when—and if—the ban will ultimately go into effect. Commissioners will be getting together with environmental experts to take a closer look at the scientific research and determine whether to implement the ban.

What do you think about Miami Beach possibly banning certain types of sunscreen? Is this a step in the right direction in making the barrier island a little greener? You can read more about the potential ban at the following link: https://chemicalwatch.com/75134/feature-miami-beach-is-fourth-tourist-spot-to-consider-sunscreen-ban.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum condos for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

A Deeper Look into iLov305

In case you haven’t heard, the newest place to have a meal and party it up is at iLov305, the Latin steakhouse and entertainment venue located on Ocean Drive. A venture by “Mr. 305” himself Pitbull, the 9,000 square foot eatery sits next door to one of the most famous sights on South Beach: Casa Casuarina, the former mansion of the late fashion designer Gianni Versace.

Exploring iLov305, you’ll notice it is comprised of a pair of levels featuring seating for lounging and dining. On the lower levels, the counters are wide enough that dancers can walk across them as they perform for guests. There are also several VIP areas with black leather seats and doors meant for privacy, plus a so-called “Dale!” room. This room can be reserved for special occasions provided Pitbull himself isn’t hanging out in there, and it includes a bathroom plus a bar.

While iLov305 is all about the celebratory atmosphere, the food is also worth mentioning. The menu devised by chefs Todd Williams and Bryan Ogden feature items such as paellas, ceviche, and of course, steak. The desserts are a major food highlight, with creative options like the giant fortune cookie.

The address for iLov305 is 1060 Ocean Drive.
This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum condos for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.

Miami Beach’s Spring Break Rules

Miami Beach is the place to be for spring thanks to its incredible beaches, rich nightlife, and wealth of culture. To keep things in control, however, the city is implementing several rules to make sure the festivities don’t get too out of control. If you haven’t read up on what these rules are, keep reading for more information.

To begin with, drinking alcohol on the beach is forbidden. Visitors that are looking to perfect their suntan should also know that tents, coolers, tables, and inflatable devices are prohibited from being used on the beach. Depending on where you plan to settle down the beach chair, the city may also place limits on the number of people allowed in a certain section. Should a section reach its capacity, visitors will be prohibited from entering that area.

In previous years, Miami Beach has shut down portions of Ocean Drive to tackle traffic and boost pedestrian safety. This year is likely to follow the same example. In peak hours, the popular roadway may be fully closed or a portion of it may possibly close between 12th and 5th Street. There will also be limits in place when it comes to streets visitors have access to, which may be open solely to people that live in Miami Beach or employees and patrons of local businesses.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in Continuum South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum North Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on current sales and rentals.

Try a New Italian Place

Lincoln Eatery has been generating lots of attention since its opening, but new food hotspots are always opening up in Miami Beach. In fact, a new eatery is making its debut on the last day of February in none other than the trendy South of Fifth area.

This weekend, be sure and check out Amare, an Italian eatery featuring cuisine inspired by the Amalfi Coast. The cuisine is the vision of chef Cosimo Cassano, who has already proved his culinary skills during his time creating foods at Bacco Ristorante in Barletta, which is Michelin star certified.

As you might guess, Cassano’s menu is heavily influenced by Italy and it includes several classic dishes such as pasta filled with lobster, tartar and carpaccio, sea bass, and plenty of seafood and meat choices. The eatery will also have different specials each day like beef craciola, spicy Italian sausage ragu, and many more.

Much like the food being served, the theme of Amare will incorporate Italian flashes while using colors such as coral, blue, and white. In fact, its ceramic tiles are directly imported from Naples. Guests will also find an espresso bar plus a dessert station. The dining area can accommodate a total of 54 guests. Don’t forget to visit the terrace to enjoy the South Beach ambiance.

You’ll find Amare at 1 Collins Avenue.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team representing Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Continuum in South Beach. If you are interested in Miami Beach condos such as the Continuum South Tower for sale, call the Continuum experts at 305-588-2451 for information on sales and rentals.