Everyone has a China Grill story.

During the halcyon days of South Beach, China Grill was where Miami came to celebrate- at a time when just about every moment was a cause for celebration. It was the backdrop for birthdays, anniversaries, business deals, pregame dinners before unforgettable nights out, spontaneous meet-cutes, and Valentine’s Day dinners that somehow didn’t begin until 1 a.m. It was where our favorite club mixes filled the room, where locals rubbed shoulders with celebrities, and where just about everyone we knew – or eventually became friends with shared a table at one time or another. China Grill wasn’t simply one of Miami’s hottest restaurants. It was an institution. A cultural landmark, an era of dining and nightlife that many still consider the golden age of South Beach.

For nearly two decades, it was far more than a restaurant-it was the heartbeat of South Beach and the place where unforgettable nights began. Housed in the same iconic building as Ocean Drive magazine, the publication that catapulted South Beach onto the global stage, China Grill became the epicenter that defined an era of dining, nightlife, and celebrity culture. Tastemakers and celebrities – including Sylvester Stallone, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Donatella Versace, Naomi Campbell, Lenny Kravitz, Dennis Rodman, Ricky Martin, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, and countless athletes and supermodels gathered alongside South Beach personalities, promoters, club owners and local luminaries.

From there, the night continued through the evolution of Miami nightlife – from Amnesia, Bar Room, and GrooveJet to Liquid, Level, Crobar, Living Room, BED, SET, Mansion, Mynt, Skybar,  and eventually LIV – each venue defining its own chapter in South Beach history. One night, after dinner at China Grill, we boarded a party bus with Adrian Grenier’s entourage on our way to SET- the site of Miami Socialholic’s fabulous launch party in 2009.

Now, China Grill has returned at Bal Harbour Shops, and it’s clear the legend is alive and well.

Walking through the doors felt less like visiting a new restaurant and more like coming home. Familiar faces, shared memories, and conversations all began with stories of the original China Grill. The energy was unmistakable, and the unique flavors that made China Grill famous have remained remarkably true to the originals while introducing exciting new dishes worthy of becoming modern classics.

The new space is sophisticated, elegant, and beautifully designed, striking the perfect balance between contemporary luxury and the unmistakable China Grill spirit. 

The expansive outdoor terrace is a standout feature, complete with ceiling fans and outdoor air-conditioning units that make alfresco dining surprisingly comfortable—even during a Miami summer. Seriously…why can’t every outdoor restaurant in Miami do this?

No visit is complete without beginning with the restaurant’s signature Lobster Pancakes. Filled with wild mushrooms, red chili, scallions, and coconut milk, they remain every bit as decadent as longtime fans remember.

The Crackling Calamari Salad, dressed with its signature lime miso dressing, continues to deliver the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors that made it a must-order for decades.

The Grilled Szechuan Beef remains a standout, signature favorite—tender beef paired with sake, soy, spicy shallots, crispy matchstick frites, and two irresistible sauces.

Of course, no China Grill experience is complete without the Peking Duck. Served with housemade pancakes and hoisin sauce, it remains one of Miami’s most celebrated dishes.

While the classics remain, the new menu introduces additions worthy of attention. The Chilean Sea Bass is buttery and perfectly prepared, complemented by hearts of palm, soy-ginger brown butter, and fresh herbs. The Onion Soup Dumplings transform the comforting flavors of French onion soup into delicate dumplings filled with rich, savory broth. The Crispy Shrimp & Mango Beggars’ Purses combine succulent shrimp, tropical sweetness, and Thai sweet chili sauce into one exceptional bite.

Choosing the best side is nearly impossible. The Wasabi Mash remains every bit as addictive as remembered, while the luxurious Truffle Mash is equally spectacular. Consider it a tie—both deserve a permanent place on every table. Also noteworthy is the Crispy Spinach which is so light, airy and delicious that it will delight even the spinach-averse.

The cocktail program is every bit as creative as the cuisine. Marco’s Escape, crafted with Suntory Toki Whisky, Chinola Passionfruit, lemon juice, passion fruit purée, basil, and ginger beer, is bright and refreshing. The Mango Mirage delivers pure Miami energy with Bacardi Rum, Chinola Mango, mango purée, lime, mint, and soda. Silk & Spice brings the perfect balance of heat and sweetness with Corazón Tequila, jalapeño, cucumber, mint, lime, and agave. To finish, the Café Champa offers an elevated espresso martini experience with Grey Goose Vodka, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, espresso, and condensed milk. And while it’s not currently on the menu, the Lychee Martini deserves a special mention—it may be one of the best we’ve ever tasted.

Our return to China Grill began with an unforgettable brunch that perfectly captured the spirit of its comeback. The room was filled with the same effortless glamour that made the original legendary—friends lingering over cocktails, conversations flowing from table to table, and that unmistakable Miami energy that turns a meal into an occasion. It felt less like discovering a new restaurant and more like revisiting an old friend, proving that some experiences never go out of style.

China Grill hasn’t simply reopened.

It has reclaimed its place in Miami’s story. For those who remember the original, it’s a chance to relive the magic. For a new generation, it’s an opportunity to discover one of the restaurants that helped shape Miami’s dining scene and continues to set the standard for destination dining. 

Some restaurants reopen.

China Grill returns.

Welcome back, old friend.

China Grill’s Hours
Monday–Thursday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Friday–Saturday: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Sunday Brunch: 11:30 AM–3:30 PM
Sunday Dinner: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

China Grill Bal Harbour
9700 Collins Avenue, Suite D-135
Bal Harbour, FL 33154
Phone: (305) 404-9700  

https://chinagrillbalharbour.com

*Restaurant photos courtesy of China Grill

Istituto Marangoni Miami celebrated the future of fashion in extraordinary form with La Grande Bellezza, its highly anticipated annual showcase presented May 20 at 8 p.m. at Jungle Plaza in the Miami Design District. Now in its third year, the production has evolved into far more than a student runway presentation — it has become one of Miami’s most sophisticated fashion events, operating at a level comparable to the polished showcases and emerging designer presentations seen during New York, Paris, and Milan Fashion Weeks.

From the moment guests arrived, the attention to detail was unmistakable. The custom-built set transformed Jungle Plaza into an effervescent Italian cityscape, immersing attendees in a cinematic environment inspired by the romance and grandeur of Italy while blending the vibrant American energy that defines Miami. The immersive buildout perfectly reflected the DNA of Istituto Marangoni Miami: internationally rooted, creatively ambitious, and undeniably modern.

Inspired by eternal elegance and the soul of Italian artistry, La Grande Bellezza transformed the runway into a living masterpiece. This year’s showcase celebrated the intricate textures, craftsmanship, and refined details that define Italian style while spotlighting the final collections of IMM’s graduating fashion design students. The result was an evening of exceptional creativity delivered with a level of professionalism rarely seen outside the global fashion capitals.

Unlike many emerging designer showcases that lean heavily into spectacle, IMM delivered a production grounded in precision and industry-level execution. From seamless show pacing and elevated styling to impeccable casting and technical direction, the evening carried the sophistication and discipline expected at elite international fashion presentations.

The evening was elegantly emceed by Eva Hughes, Executive Vice President of Istituto Marangoni Miami and a globally respected fashion media and luxury industry veteran. Hughes brought commanding presence, warmth, and unmistakable expertise to the production, guiding guests through the evening with the polished ease of a seasoned international fashion executive while reinforcing IMM’s growing influence within the global fashion conversation.

“In this, our third graduation showcase, we hope to continue to show the community not just how talented our student body is but how important it is to nurture and support that talent with access to top-tier instruction and industry opportunities,” said Hakan Baykam, President of Istituto Marangoni Miami. “La Grande Bellezza is a celebration of the beauty that comes to life when we provide the space for our students to birth their unique visions.”

Miami’s fashion, art, and cultural communities gathered in full force to celebrate the city’s rapidly growing creative influence. Guests included supermodel Karolina Kurkova, celebrity stylists Danny Santiago and Irma Martinez, and influencers Gabriela Medina, Jenny Lopez, Elle Ullman, Roy Teng Moure, and many more. Models were beautifully made up by the Godina Worldwide team at GWT Beauty, bringing each designer’s vision to life with editorial-level sophistication as students debuted their collections on the runway for the very first time.

The night was further elevated by a captivating live performance from Italian singer and performer Arianna Bergamaschi, whose collaborations with internationally renowned artists including Andrea Bocelli, Pitbull, Shaggy, Michael Bolton, Il Volo, Flo Rida, and will.i.am brought an unmistakably international energy to the celebration.

Supported by longtime IMM partners including Swiss luxury watch brand RADO, the presentation reinforced Miami’s emergence as a legitimate global fashion destination — one capable of delivering cultural experiences with both creative depth and world-class execution. Witnessing an inspiring display of fresh perspectives, innovative craftsmanship, and boundary-pushing aesthetics, La Grande Bellezza further positioned Miami as an internationally recognized center for creativity, design, and emerging artistic voices.

Following the show, VIP guests proceeded to the neighboring and iconic Moore Building for an intimate afterparty sponsored by LALO Tequila and Ethica Wines. The celebration continued late into the evening with decadent treats from Rosetta Bakery alongside one of the night’s standout culinary moments: made-to-order truffle pizzas by Verace Artisan Pizza, served fresh throughout the party as guests toasted an evening that seamlessly blended artistry, sophistication, and the future of fashion. La Grande Bellezza proved that Miami’s fashion scene has arrived, polished ready for the international spotlight.

Watch a video of the show here:

https://youtu.be/TfFNo7Jqcxs?si=S1zACR0FyS0vdGpZ

Photo credit for all photos: World Red Eye

Sunset Harbour’s culinary landscape just leveled up. Following a string of heavy-hitting collaborations, a’Riva at Harbour Club is currently playing host to Manhattan’s celebrated Chinese Tuxedo. From May 12th – 16th, this limited-time pop-up is transforming the intimate Miami space into a contemporary Chinese banquet hall, blending New York City’s edgy sophistication with the artful ambiance of the Harbour Club.

Beyond the stunning views and the sleek, warm-lit atmosphere, the true star is a menu that reinterprets traditional flavors with bold, modern flair.

The collaboration features a curated selection of Chinese Tuxedo’s most iconic hits, complemented by a bespoke cocktail program:

• Signature Cocktails: The bar program is as inventive as the kitchen, featuring the Paradise Park (Vodka, Lychee, Yuzu), the Mott Collins (Gin, Pear, Chinese Five Spice), and the spicy, savory Bloody Angle (Tequila, Blood Orange, Sichuan, Chili).

• Dim Sum: Kick things off with the refreshing Spicy Cucumbers and Marinated Wood Ear Mushrooms in a red vinegar dressing. Other highlights include Hamachi Crudo, Shrimp Toast with XO Sauce, and the standout Crispy Eggplant.

• Noodles: Options range from Kombu Noodles with Jonah Crab to the show-stopping Whole Live Lobster Noodles.

• Seafood & Meats: Steamed Snapper, Crispy Skin Half Chicken, and the legendary Half Roast Duck.

• Vegetables: Steamed Bok Choy and Xinjiang Spiced Green Beans.

• Dessert: Mandarin Custard Crème Brûlée and Sesame Balls.

Outstanding Dishes & Culinary Highlights

While every plate delivered, several dishes redefined what we expect from Chinese cuisine in Miami:

• The “Candy” Eggplant: The Crispy Eggplant with Sichuan Peppercorn and Sesame is a revelation. It’s essentially “veggie candy”—perfectly glazed, crunchy on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside.

• The Signature Roast Duck: Prepared in the signature Chinese Tuxedo fashion, the Half Roast Duck arrives with perfectly rendered skin and succulent, five-spice infused meat that pays homage to traditional banquet dining.

• Whole Live Lobster Noodles: Expertly prepared and visually stunning, the lobster is succulent and tossed in a rich, golden garlic butter that clings to every strand of noodle.

• Reimagined Greens: Even the sides shine. The Bok Choy features a unique burnt garlic oil, while the Green Beans are tossed in a fragrant Xinjiang spice blend that provides a smoky, addictive heat.

• The Finale: The Crème Brûlée Mandarin Custard Tart is arguably the best version of the dessert in the city—silky, citrusy, and finished with a flawless glass-like sugar crust.

What truly levels up this pop-up is the outstanding service. The staff at a’Riva navigates the complexity of the Chinese Tuxedo menu with grace, offering insightful recommendations. It is a rare “cross-cultural exchange” where the high-energy service of New York meets the relaxed luxury of Miami.

Plan Your Visit:

• Location: a’Riva at Harbour Club, 1916 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

• Dates: Now through Saturday, May 16th.

• Time: Dinner service begins nightly at 6:00 PM.

• Reservations: Highly recommended and can be made via Resy or by contacting the restaurant directly at 305-910-0415.

Whether you’re a fan of the NYC original or a local looking for the most compelling meal in town this week, this collaboration is a must-visit. Catch it before it’s gone!

The velvet ropes at 2000 Collins Avenue officially parted on April 17, marking the arrival of Leonardo—a debut that was as spectacularly generous as it was impeccably styled. Leonardo’s grand opening fete set itself apart with an air of genuine, old-world abundance. From the first pour of the top-shelf open bar to the meticulously dressed crowd that filled the room, the evening felt like a high-society dinner party where the hosts truly cared that every glass remained full and every guest felt like the center of the universe.

The 4,500-square-foot destination captures the essence of lingering, soulful Italian dinners, bringing that spirit to the heart of Miami Beach. The space feels like a cinematic set from the 1930s- deep green walls and warm, aged wood finishes create an intimate, moody backdrop, while ornate chandeliers cast a golden glow over a collection of Leonardo da Vinci-inspired artwork that pays homage to the restaurant’s namesake.

The culinary experience, led by Tuscan-born Executive Chef Andrea Albanese, is a masterclass in theatrical indulgence. While the menu boasts a robust raw bar and refined starters like Beef Carpaccio with 36-month Parmigiano-Reggiano, the undisputed star of the night was the Fettuccine alla Leonardo. In a display of pure culinary decadence, the pasta was finished inside a massive wheel of Parmesan before being topped with a lavish, aromatic cascade of freshly shaved truffles—a gesture of luxury that perfectly mirrored the generosity of the evening. Other highlights, like the flambéed whole branzino and the succulent Linguine Aragosta with Maine lobster, ensured that the table remained the focal point of the night.

As the clock struck 10:30 p.m., the energy underwent a masterfully executed shift directed by co-owner Mehdi Vanden Broeck. Known for his fingerprints on Miami icons like Kiki on the River and Bagatelle, Vanden Broeck oversaw a transition where the dining room’s sophisticated hum evolved into a vibrant late-night spectacle. The evening reached a fever pitch with the arrival of world-class entertainment; a mesmerizing fire dancer commanded the floor with hypnotic precision, while a live singer—who was a dead ringer for Michael Bublé—serenaded the room with soulful, swing-era classics that had the crowd swaying between courses.

The cocktail program further cemented the night’s inventive spirit, featuring standout sips like the pancetta-washed Italian Old-Fashioned and the floral Hibiscus martini. Whether guests were lingering over a Tomato Peach Negroni or dancing amidst the sparklers and champagne, the sentiment remained the same: Leonardo is a rare return to the ritual of the long, luxurious meal. Open for dinner throughout the week with late-night hours stretching until 3 a.m. on peak nights, Leonardo has officially claimed its stake as the new epicenter of Miami Beach’s social scene, where the hospitality is as rich as the truffles.

In a city that thrives on spectacle, something truly transportive stood apart. Enter illy’s Art of Dining—a year-long series designed to bring coffee into the heart of fine dining, where every detail is intentional and every moment unfolds with quiet precision.

The debut took place in Miami at Boia De, the Michelin-starred dining room known for feeling more like an intimate gathering than a traditional restaurant. That energy defined the evening. Guests moved together through the experience, each course arriving in rhythm, creating a shared cadence that felt both elevated and warmly familiar—like a family dinner shaped by extraordinary talent.

The menu revealed itself as a study in balance and craftsmanship. It began with a foie gras terrine—silken, composed, and richly layered—followed by a bright, delicately dressed fish crudo that brought clarity and contrast. From there, the evening unfolded into handmade pastas: celeriac agnolotti, refined and earthy, and ricotta gnocchi, light yet deeply satisfying, each dish reflecting precision and intention.

The main course, a coffee-rubbed porchetta, served as a defining moment—an expression of illy’s versatility, where coffee moved seamlessly into the language of the plate. Dessert carried that same sense of cohesion, with a crispy tiramisu offering texture and depth, followed by raspberries and cream that delivered a fresh, elegant finish.

Each course was paired with curated wines, selected to mirror the progression of the menu and enhance the overall experience. The pairings moved in harmony with the dishes, creating a seamless dialogue between glass and plate that elevated every moment.

At the center of it all was illy—our favorite for its consistency, depth, and unmistakable refinement. Its presence was felt throughout the evening as a unifying thread, bringing cohesion to an already masterfully composed experience.

The Art of Dining series, rooted in illy’s Chef Ambassador program, brings together globally celebrated chefs who approach coffee with the same discipline and creativity as their cuisine. In Miami, that philosophy came to life through a dinner defined by connection, artistry, and a shared sense of purpose.

As Cristian Arcangeli shares, the focus is on creating meaningful, immersive experiences—moments that engage every sense and leave a lasting impression. It’s a philosophy that resonates throughout the evening, where flavor, atmosphere, and connection come together in perfect harmony.

“Gastronomy and fine dining have always been at the heart of illy, but at its core, our brand is about creating memorable experiences,” said Cristian Arcangeli, VP of Marketing & Digital. “In an increasingly digital world, we see real-life experiences as the most powerful way to create authentic connections, where people can truly engage with our brand through all their senses. Through this immersive dining series, we are bringing illy into a new dimension—where every detail, from flavor to atmosphere, is designed to engage the senses and elevate the experience. In collaboration with some of the world’s most celebrated Michelin-starred chefs, we are crafting moments that blend taste, culture, and atmosphere into something truly memorable. Because ultimately, it’s these lived experiences that define luxury, build emotional connection, and stay with our guests long after the moment has passed.”

“I’m very excited to be a part of this fantastic program that brings together best-in-class gastronomy with illy’s extraordinary coffee,” said Chef Rupert Blease. “Being a part of the illy Chef Ambassador program has illustrated that the level of detail and care that goes into each illy coffee blend is akin to how I would craft a meal. It was a true joy to be able to create my own personal blend with illy and I look forward to seeing people experience it within my custom tasting menu. Coffee can be more than just a morning ritual, it’s a true culinary experience.”

As the series continues to cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco—with chefs like Rupert Blease developing bespoke tasting menus—it carries forward this same spirit: collaborative, immersive, and deeply considered.

At its core, Art of Dining is about gathering—around a table, within a moment, and across a shared appreciation for craft. And anchoring it all is illy: refined, expressive, and unforgettable.

For more information, visit illy and follow @illy_us on social platforms for upcoming dates, chef collaborations, and ticket availability.

The 25th Anniversary of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival wasn’t just a milestone — it was a full-bodied, bass-thumping, truffle-scented reminder that nobody throws a food festival like Miami. And in case anyone forgot, February 22 was officially declared Lee Schrager Day, honoring the festival’s fearless founder Lee Schrager — the man who turned South Beach into the culinary capital of February.

Let’s get into the bites, the beats, and the beautiful madness.

Mike’s Amazing Burger Bash Presented by Schweid & Sons

If you didn’t leave Burger Bash with the meat sweats and a only a couple of Tums left in your pocket, did you even go? 

Under the night sky, smoke rising and grills blazing, the festival’s most carnivorous crowd gathered for the main event — and once again, Burger Bash proved why it’s the crown jewel of the week. The vibe was fun, energetic and loud and the burgers were  delicious- down to the last bite. 

Hosted by the always adorable Rachael Ray alongside Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, the stage had serious star power. And the judges’ table wasn’t playing around either: Gayle King, Ashley Graham, Bert Kreischer (yes, shirt on… we checked), and Miami’s own Matt Kuscher came ready to crown greatness. 

Judges’ Choice: Classic Done Right 

NFA Burger — tucked inside a humble Chevron station in Dunwoody, Georgia — walked away with the big win thanks to their no-frills showstopper, the Billy Burger, named after owner Billy Kramer. 

Beef patty. Mustard. Pickles. “Sassy sauce.” Martin’s Potato Roll. That’s it. 

And somehow? Absolute perfection. The NFA philosophy is simple: do one thing and do it right. The judges clearly agreed.

People’s Choice: Miami Loves a Little Drama 

Miami favorite La Birra Bar snagged the People’s Choice Award with their unapologetically extra Crispy Dubai. 

We’re talking wagyu beef patties, white American cheese, crispy onions, Argentinian chimichurri mayo, and shaved black truffle. It was rich. It was indulgent. It was the kind of burger you think about the next day… while recovering. 

Honorable Mentions (Because Choosing Is Hard) 

With so many heavy hitters, we forced ourselves to narrow it down to two that had us contemplating elastic waistbands. 

Skinny Louie’s x Samantha Schnur (@naughtyfork) – The Naughty Burger

Double wagyu smash patty. American cheese. Maple bacon onion “damn jam.” Garlic dijonnaise. Pickled jalapeños. Buttered brioche. Oh — and truffle mayo tater tots on the side. It wasn’t just a burger. It was a full-on flavor explosion. Zero regrets. 

Cowy Burger – The Cabrito

Spanish chorizo, fried sweet potato straws, honey, goat cheese, and Cowy’s signature green sauce. Sweet, savory, crispy, creamy — basically everything you want in one glorious bite. Add waffle fries and call it a win. 

Honorable Dessert Mention: Nightowl Cookies OG Sticky Rolls with Butterscotch dipping sauce. 

By the end of the night, belts were loosened, selfies were taken, and the meat sweats were very, very real. 

And honestly? We’d do it all again.

[smooth=id:650;] Photo Credit: World Red Eye

Coca-Cola Presents Tournament of Champions Hosted by Guy Fieri with a Special Performance by Rev Run