Fit for a King
Words: Michelle Wallace IG @my.michelle.w
Photography: Sergey Yusin @sergey_yusin
Wardrobe: Jaxson Maximus @jaxsonmaximus
Make-up: Julia Brig @juliabrigmia
style | June 01, 2021
Travel
April 18, 2022
Miami’s First Ever
Formula 1 Race
Word / Miami Vibes Magazine | IG: miamivibesmag
Miami Speed Week celebrates racing and entertainment, but for the first time ever it is in conjunction with the Formula 1 Grand Prix being hosted in Miami. From May 7 to 8, Miami will be filled with fan experiences, music,
sponsored activations, racing, celebrities and so much more
WHERE TO Stay
Home to the Williams F1 team for the inaugural Miami Grand Prix, W South Beach is the place to stay for Formula 1 weekend in Miami. The property is hosting an exclusive viewing party for Sunday’s F1 race in partnership with the Williams F1 team, providing a livestream inside the Williams tent before and during the race. The property recently reopened after a $30 million renovation of its guest rooms, new spa and leisure spaces. Along with the renovation, W South Beach debuted a refreshed art collection, valued at $100 million with a focus on the iconic duo Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat on display throughout the lobby for guests to enjoy at their leisure. W South Beach is also home to the opulent MR CHOW, which is known for their authentic Beijing cuisine; RWSB (Restaurant W South Beach) an American eatery led by Executive Chef Vincenzo Scarmiglia; IRMA’S, an outdoor oasis and craft cocktail outpost and WET, featuring two alluring swimming pools and newly renovated stylish cabanas. Each guest at W South Beach receives a dedicated W Insider, available 24/7, who will take care of whatever, whenever (literally) from dinner reservations, grocery delivery, drivers, yacht charters and more.
Opened in November of 2021, Esmé Miami Beach is a charming Spanish oasis located on Española Way, South Beach’s historic esplanade that’s lined with local restaurants and shops. Originally developed as a 1920s bohemian artist colony and serving as the go-to hangout for gangsters like Al Capone and stars such as Lucille Ball —this Miami Beach hidden gem recently underwent a $40 million renovation and opening, led by the esteemed Infinity Hospitality Group. Additionally, the hotel features five Latin-inspired food & beverage concepts across its eight buildings, connected by intimate Spanish paseos. These concepts are led by Miami's most innovative restaurateurs, Lost Boy & Co. co-founder Chris Hudnall and Chef Fabian DiPaolo. From El Salón, an intimate cocktail lounge that exclusively features a proprietary collection of spirit blends to Bar Pintxo, a tapas concept inspired by Basque Country, each eatery brings an epicurean experience like no other to Miami.
The Tony Hotel South Beach embodies the classic South Beach retreat in an intimate setting for by-the-beach accommodations this F1 weekend. From its ocean-view rooftop pool, to its meticulously preserved 1930s Art Deco architecture and landmarked “Tiffany” spire sign that towers majestically over Collins Avenue, The Tony offers its guests an opportunity to experience the timeless vibrant energy of South Beach. Originally built in 1939 by master architect L. Murray Dixon and beautifully reimagined in 1998 by American fashion designer Todd Oldham, the boutique hotel spans two buildings along Eighth Street fronting both Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive for a total of 74 rooms and suites adorned in rich colors, shapes, and textures that highlight and pay homage to its historic neighborhood.
THesis Hotel
THesis Hotel Miami, a modern property that serves as a cultural hub in historic Coral Gables, has 245 modernly-appointed guest rooms and suites in a strikingly designed building. Amenities include a sun-filled rooftop pool with tropical views and a poolside bar; two on-site restaurants, Mamey and Orno, led by Food + Wine Best Chef of 2020 winner and James Beard nominee Niven Patel. With a robust, year-round calendar of programming and events - all open to the public - THesis is not only a hotel, but a destination that fosters genuine connection and creative expression; a place where curious, like-minded individuals exchange ideas, celebrate art, discover new cultural experiences, and engage with their community.
The Balfour Hotel
The Balfour Hotel is a historic property, formerly known as The Lord Balfour Hotel, with 82 guest rooms and suites spread out over two Art-Deco style buildings connected by an enchanting courtyard. Designed in 1940 by Anton Skislewicz, an important architect behind Miami Beach’s Art Deco history, The Balfour Hotel caters to design-conscious visitors with a unique style that has an undeniably timeless appeal. An elevated, plunge pool with an underwater window provides the perfect Instagram shot of swimmers behind the glass wall. Terracotta mosaic tiles, chaise lounges and ratan lounge seating invite guests to sunbathe and enjoy the seasonal rotations of refreshers including frozen grapes and fruit smoothies.
The Gabriel Miami
The Gabriel Miami is a 129-key lifestyle hotel in Downtown Miami, offering spacious rooms and suites and views of Biscayne Bay. Adjacent to the hotel’s palm-tree-lined sun deck on the 14th floor is a rectangular pool with views of the intracoastal waterway, the Miami Beach skyline, PortMiami and Biscayne Bay, providing guests with the ultimate venue for relaxation and tranquility among the city’s cultural epicenter. Select rooms feature balconies with outdoor seating, providing the ultimate venue for watching the sunrise over the Miami skyline.
The Gabriel South Beach
The Gabriel South Beach is a boutique property located on Ocean Drive in South Beach. The boutique property has with two pools, including a show-stopping, glass bottom pool on the roof overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is comprised of three individual buildings – including the historic Park Central Hotel, Heathcote Apartments and the Imperial Hotel, presenting travelers with the classic Art Deco design and architecture synonymous with Miami Beach. Guests will find a 30-foot-tall mural by the French-born, Los Angeles-based street artist Mr. Brainwash, known for his large-scale installations and prints of celebrities like Madonna, Kate Moss, and Marilyn Monroe and his practice of subverting cultural iconography similar to Andy Warhol and Banksy. The hotel blends Art Deco modernism with tropical allure.
The Shelborne South Beach
The Shelborne was originally built in 1940 and designed by famed Art Deco architects Igor Polevitsky and Thomas Triplett Russel. It was embellished in the 1950s by Neo-baroque design master Morris Lapidus. The property houses an iconic Art Deco pool, David’s Cafe (For authentic Cuban coffee) and Sweet Beach, with cuisine by James Beard Winner Michelle Bernstein. The bar was conceptualized and operated by the team at locally celebrated Sweet LIberty Drinks & Supply Co. Finally, head out to the pool for a relaxed vibe and traditional South Beach nostalgia. There's also an amazing Oasis Garden, offering various moon watching events and fitness programming on weekends.
Hillsboro Beach Resort
Hillsboro Beach Resort, known for exclusivity and privacy, is the only resort located on exclusive Hillsboro Mile, known colloquially as “Millionaire’s Mile” for the numerous oceanfront mansions and luxury yachts lining the town’s street. The luxury resort boasts 72 well-appointed guestrooms, studios and suites, including rooms with views of the beach. Guests can expect to delight in internationally inspired cuisine at the resort restaurant Roí or can experience the relaxed atmosphere of the ocean view resort pool or private beach. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, guests can enjoy a day of watersports from the resort’s intracoastal mooring or head out on one of the resort's beach cruiser bicycles to explore the surrounding areas.
RESTAURANTS – WHERE TO DINE
Le Jardinier is an approachable yet refined French restaurant with Michelin-starred Chef Alain Verzeroli. Le Jardinier’s modern, light-filled space and lush outdoor dining area evoke a tropical garden vibe within Miami Design District. The restaurant is known for its local seasonal ingredients, sustainable seafood, poultry and meat and impressive cocktail program that pairs well with the seasonal menu options.
L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon, named after the late Chef Robuchon, named the “Chef of the Century” by the guide Gault Millau in 1989 and held 32 Michelin Guide stars, the most of any restauranteur. His legacy lives on at his chain of L’Atelier restaurants across the globe that includes this Miami outpost where his protégés Culinary Director Alain Verzeroli and Executive Pastry Chef Salvatore Martone carry on his culinary philosophy. The modern French menu includes Robuchon’s iconic signature dishes, alongside new, ever-changing seasonal creations utilizing ingredients sourced from top local and regional purveyors.
Bar Pintxo (Esmé Miami Beach Hotel)
An ode to the back-alley bars found throughout the Basque Country, this casual “Village Pub” offers a rotating array of traditional Spanish tapas and finger foods, and some not-so-traditional ones too.
El Salón – (Esmé Miami Beach Hotel)
El Salón exclusively features a proprietary collection of spirit blends, crafted with a focus on flavor profile, and developed into verticals to elevate the cocktail experience. Small plates which celebrate the Latin diversity of our Magic City are offered as well.
The Roof – (Esmé Miami Beach Hotel)
An oasis in Miami Beach, The Roof offers a tranquil escape with lighter bites and great libations, from sangria to unique takes on beloved cocktails.
The Drexel – (Esmé Miami Beach Hotel)
A modern coastal Mediterranean restaurant featuring house made pasta and pizza with a heavy emphasis on locally sourced seafood and an entire section dedicated to vegetable dishes.
Tropezón – (Esmé Miami Beach Hotel)
Located off the lobby of Casa Matanza, Tropezón is the perfect place to “stumble” upon for sharing Andalusian-inspired tapas and delectable cocktails.
Famed Miami hotspot overlooking the Miami River is the perfect venue to enjoy the Grand Prix F1 buzz. To celebrate, Zuma Miami will be open for lunch all week leading up to race day and their exclusive Grand Prix after party. Enjoy their world-famous bites and boozy cocktails in their newly revamped dining room or waterfront terrace. Lunch reservations are now open.
While in town for the Grand Prix, indulge in elevated authentic Bejing fare at MR CHOW – one of the area’s most iconic restaurants to dine, imbibe and be seen for more than a decade. Located directly on the beach in the “W” Hotel in South Beach, the venue features plentiful options for outdoor dining with private rooms and a dining patio, apart from its indoor seating, bar and lounge. This upscale, fashionable hotspot for authentic Beijing fare has a menu featuring one of the best prepared Beijing Duck in the world, Chicken Satay, MR CHOW Noodles and Ma Mignon for patrons to enjoy underneath a stunning 123-foot Gold-leaf and Swarovski crystal chandelier designed by Michael Chow himself. Foodies know there are few other places in the Miami area that will satisfy and tickle all senses like MR CHOW, which is why its loyal international clients return dine-after-dine for the perfect combination of art, fashion, music and, of course, cuisine.
CHI’ at Brickell City Centre
A Chino-Latino, multi-faceted concept that incorporates four separate sections, Restaurant, Mercado, Garden & Lounge, into one immersive culinary experience.
EST.33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen at Brickell City Centre
A new dining experience where Asian flavors meet the distinctive techniques of American barbecue featuring high-quality ingredients showcasing bold yet approachable flavors that complements their signature craft beers brewed in-house.
Pubbelly Sushi at Brickell City Centre
Pubbelly dishes up an inventive and playful American take on Pan-Asian classics like grilled short ribs, spiced sashimi and, of course, rolls stuffed with every crustaceous creature imaginable.
Tacology at Brickell City Centre
This upscale Mexican eatery is complete with al fresco patio and features some Mexican staples including
tacos, ceviches, tostadas and more.
Casa Tua Cucina at Brickell City Centre
This marvelous multi-concept gourmet experience boasts the best Italian dishes in the area.
Marabu at Brickell City Centre
Carefully-sourced ingredients are gathered to create classic dishes with bursts of smoky, rich flavor as they are cooked with charcoal. The cuisine offers a variety of items on the menu ranging from large-format meats, rices, and vegetables as well as seafood.
Quinto la Huella at Brickell City Centre
Bringing the Uruguayan beach vibe stateside, this contempo, rustic LatAm farm-to-tabler wood-fires wholesome, locally sourced, organic fare.
EST.33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen
From Bangkok to Miami, EST. 33 Thai Craft Brewery & Kitchen harmoniously brings together the classic tastes and techniques of American barbecue to traditional Thai cuisine. Located 10 minutes from the Miami Speed Week festivities, EST. 33 was recently awarded "Best Restaurant in Brickell" by Miami New Times’ Best of Miami 2021. By blending bursts of salty, spicy, sour and sweet with smoky, acidic and savory, the restaurant offers a thoughtfully fused food menu that pairs Asian spices with hickory wood flavors. In addition to crafted dishes, EST.33 presents a thorough beverage selection, including the chance for guests to take a tour of the restaurant’s brewery to learn just how it designs its experimental creations.
Dogfish Head
Only 15 minutes from Bayfront Park and the Miami Speed Week celebration, Dogfish Head Miami serves as a hub for one-of-a-kind, multi-sensory experiences, giving locals and visitors alike a place to gather and enjoy innovative beers and local food alongside music and art. On tap, guests can choose from a rotating lineup of house-brewed exclusives infused with Florida’s native flavors, as well as a selection of Dogfish Head’s national specials. Fan-favorites include Starpucker IPA (6.2%), a hazy IPA with a magnificent mélange of fruity-juicy hop aromas and flavors made with Florida-grown starfruit, as well as Mas Hops (10%), a Double IPA made with Delaware malt and four types of hop varieties, with intense pine notes and a cascade of tropical aroma. To pair with their off-centered ales, guests can chow down on a menu of mouth-watering morsels, like Florida Shrimp Gazpacho, Bao Bun Barbacoa, Sweet Potato Cheesecake and more.
Uchi
Less than 20 minutes away from Bayfront Park, Uchi originates from the James Beard Award-winning chef and owner Tyson Cole, whose mastermind brings over a decade of experience under two sushi masters to the Wynwood arts district. Beyond classic sushi rolls and freshly caught sashimi, Uchi offers yasaimono, agemono, makimono, toyosu, one of a kind specials and a multi-course omakase selection. Guests can witness chefs in action from the sushi counter, dine in its sophisticated floorplan or take a seat on the outdoor wraparound patio.
Kosushi
Kosushi Miami is known for its authentic yet contemporary take on traditional Japanese cuisine with Brazilian flavors created by 5x Michelin Star Award-Winning Chef George Koshoji. Located five miles from Miami Speed Week events at Bayfront Park, its bold flavors come in offerings such as small cold or hot dishes, from the chilled King Crab Truffle to the steaming Wagyu Gyoza, as well as a vast variety of sushi. To pair the perfect drink, Kosushi serves an exclusive cocktail selection created by the talented Brazilian mixologist Márcio Silva, featuring drinks like “Shokobutsuen” (Gin, fresh lemon juice, basil, cucumber, mint and organic sugar syrup), as well as a curated list of wines and sakes showcasing flavor profiles for every palate.
Chotto Matte
Chotto Matte, the pioneering global Nikkei dining destination, celebrates the very best of authentic and innovative cuisine, set in a vibrant, stylish architectural space less than five miles from Bayfront Park’s Speed Week events. Nikkei is a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions, a lively combination of ingredients and techniques both with a deep appreciation for fresh fish and seasonal ingredients. Chotto Matte’s innovative menu stays true to the Nikkei staples – Ceviche, Tiradito, Anticucho BBQ, Sushi, Sashimi and Tempura – while ensuring the ingredients are organic and sustainably sourced.
Villa Azur Miami Beach
The chic French supper club Villa Azur is a classy culinary and lifestyle experience, and located five miles from the Miami Speed Week festivities at Bayfront Park. The dynamic restaurant and lounge transform a high-end dinner service into a vibrant atmosphere. Its thoughtful menu is made up of fresh ingredients hand-picked from the south of France to beautifully blend with local flavors and recipes. Those looking for a meal from the land can taste the carefully roasted Chateaubriand Au Poivre, made of 2 lbs of prime filet mignon and paired with bordelaise and béarnaise sauces. For fresh seafood, the Dover Sole Meunière is made with whole fish, caper, lemon and brown butter and is prepared tableside for a stunning visual. Additional bites include a Latin twist on Tuna Tartare with avocado salsa verde or the cognac-flamed Pâtes a la Meule pasta served tableside.
Fratelli La Bufala
Known as Miami’s first Neapolitan Pizzeria, Fratelli La Bufala has operated its authentic Italian traditions in Miami Beach since 2005, only a short five miles from Bayfront Park. The taste of tradition shows in Fratelli La Bufala’s expansive menu of pastas, pizzas and other classic Neapolitan fare. The popular pizzas are all made with fresh mozzarella and come with toppings ranging from artichoke hearts and ham to roasted potatoes and sausage. In addition to the vast selection of 20+ pizzas, the restaurant also serves pastas from Lasagna and Gnocchi to Bucatini alla Carbonara and Linguine ai Gamberi. Like they do in Italy, guests can sip on freshly brewed espresso after their hearty meal.
Shooters Waterfront
Since 1982, the Fort Lauderdale restaurant Shooters Waterfront has provided its guests with fresh cuisine from its elegant dining destination along the Intracoastal Waterway. From a spring breaker’s paradise to a neighborhood eatery, this waterfront restaurant has experienced it all, and is a short drive from the Formula 1 race at Hard Rock Stadium. Shooters has been recognized as one of Restaurant Business Magazine’s Top 100 Independents for 2019 and 2020, cracking in most recently at #39. Its coastal-inspired menu offers a fresh selection of dishes from Asian-inspired sushi to All-American St. Louis Style Ribs. With its neutral and distinguished decor that spans from its luxurious dining rooms to its chic outdoor lawn peppered with fire pits, those dining at Shooters can’t help but be transported to a coastal oasis.
Casa Sensei
Located only 30 minutes from the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Casa Sensei brilliantly blends traditional Latin American cuisine with Pan-Asian staples to create the best of both worlds. The fusion eatery presents a deliciously dynamic environment for an immersive dining experience in the restaurant’s elegant dining room, dog-friendly waterfront patio or via a scenic Riverfront Gondola Tour along the Himmarshee Canal. Authentic comfort dishes include favorites like the Korean BBQ Beef and Kimchi Fried Rice or opt for a tantalizing specialty dish like the freshly fished Lobster Guacamole. After an elegant meal where East meets West, guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with a complimentary cloud of cotton candy.
Mehzcla at The Balfour Hotel
Mehzcla, spearheaded by chef Steven Acosta, unifies a variety of Latin American culinary influences found throughout the hotel, welcoming people from all walks of life to enjoy a seat at the table. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu combines Latin recipes and ingredients in tribute to the property’s Miami Beach heritage. The Balfour Hotel’s nod to Latin America is found throughout Mehzcla’s design. Diners enter the restaurant through a wrap-around terrace with ample outdoor seating overlooking scenic Ocean Drive. The dining room is centered around the historic building’s original marble fireplace, terrazzo flooring, and an inviting lobby bar featuring a well-crafted, classic cocktail program. Serving as the hotel’s social hub, this space celebrates Miami’s diverse cultural scene with its plush rattan furniture, pops of tropical prints and warm hues, and the rotating gallery of local art from emerging talent from South Florida art schools.
Verde at The Pérez Art Museum Miami
Verde, located in Pérez Art Museum Miami with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay, is a modern, casual restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating. Verde’s expansive patio offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and leads out onto the entrance to Museum Park, a scenic outdoor experience for diners looking to experience sunny South Florida’s perfect weather and immerse themselves in the city’s cultural offerings with access to the museum’s sculpture garden and scenic views of Downtown Miami.
Mamey
Mamey is an island-inspired restaurant by James Beard Nominee and Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2020, Chef Niven Patel. Located inside THesis Hotel, Mamey is inspired by Chef Patel’s travels throughout Asia, French Polynesia and the Caribbean. As is true of all Chef Niven's endeavors, Mamey, which is named after the tropical fruit, features locally grown produce, most of which is sourced from his own farm, Rancho Patel in Homestead, Florida. The restaurant showcases the exotic flavors and spices commonly found in the islands. Mamey’s seasonal offerings are complemented by fun, innovative cocktails that will transport you to the tropics. Nestled on the third floor of THesis Hotel is the vibrant rooftop extension of Mamey Miami, Mamey on 3rd. The island-minded rooftop oasis serves happy hour and bites daily and brings the vibes with live music to be enjoyed with friends and family.
Orno
Located inside of the THesis Hotel Miami in Coral Gables, Orno, is a modern restaurant with an open-kitchen concept, helmed by 4x James Beard Nominee and Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2020, Chef Niven Patel. Orno offers guests a true, farm-to-table experience using locally sourced ingredients from Chef Patel's very own farm, Rancho Patel. The restaurant consists of New American cuisine featuring the finest selection of meats and seafood. Wood-fired culinary creations are complimented by specialty cocktails inspired by literary classics which can be enjoyed in the main dining room or in The Library, Orno’s hideaway lounge and private dining room.
The Lincoln Eatery
The Lincoln Eatery is the first food hall in Miami Beach. The urban food collective houses a curated selection of 13 unique dining and drinking options featuring an eclectic assortment of global culinary concepts. The Lincoln Eatery serves diners a quick bite, lively programming and events, a great drink or a chic space to meet, mingle, work or hang. Many of the Eatery’s tenants are new to the market, bringing authentic, and in most cases, homegrown made-in-Miami options to a wider audience with first time brick and mortar retail locations.
Events - What to Do
William’s F1 Team Unveils Exclusive Wrapped F1 Car by Miami artist SURGE at W South Beach
Thursday, May 5th, 6:30pm-8:30pm at W South Beach Living Room
In honor of the first ever Formula 1 Grand Prix in Miami, Williams F1 team will be unveiling an exclusive F1 car wrapped by local Miami artist SURGE, aka Sergio J. Quinonez in W South Beach’s lobby space. SURGE, known for his vibrant bold art inspired by his love for cartoons and hip-hop culture, has been seen everywhere from walls in Miami’s legendary Wynwood Arts District to live painting performances at some of Miami’s most high-profile events. The evening will kick off with a champagne celebration and unveiling of the never-before-seen wrapped F1 car. The Williams F1 team including both drivers and artist SURGE will be in attendance.
**invite-only**
Exclusive Williams F1 Viewing Party at W South Beach
Sunday, May 8th, 2pm-1pm at W South Beach Living Room Bar + Irma’s
Watch Miami’s first Grand Prix from the Williams F1 team headquarters at W South Beach. The hotel will be streaming the race on Sunday afternoon and exclusively live streaming an inside look at the Williams tent before and during the race. A special menu of themed cocktails and food will be available for viewers indoors at Living Room Bar and outdoors at Irma’s.
**Open to the public, first come first serve**
Zuma Miami – Grand Prix After Party
Sunday, May 8, 8pm-12am, $250pp++
Celebrate the Grand Prix in style with Zuma at their exclusive after-party on May 8th. Enjoy unlimited food + drinks (no, we’re not kidding), a live DJ and a stunning firework show to top off the night on Zuma’s glittering outdoor terrace overlooking the famed Miami River. Tickets start at $250pp and are limited. Tickets: HERE