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

Miami Fashion Week (MIAFW) unveiled its inaugural Virtual Fashion Awards at the glamorous Queen Miami Beach, transforming the traditional runway into an immersive digital experience where artificial intelligence, artistry, and couture seamlessly converged.

Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Lisa Petrillo, the exclusive gala welcomed an international gathering of designers, creatives, innovators, and tastemakers for an evening that felt equally rooted in craftsmanship and propelled toward the future. Rather than replacing fashion’s human element, technology elevated it, offering breathtaking virtual worlds that expanded the storytelling possibilities behind every collection.

The event featured AI-powered runway presentations produced by The Fashion Shows, complemented by live model showcases that brought the digital and physical worlds together. The result was an editorial-worthy experience that felt more cinematic than conventional—a fitting evolution for one of fashion’s fastest-growing international platforms.

Among the participating designers were Ana+Maria, Beatriz de la Cámara, Brooke Wilder, ByMerveDundar, Danfive by Daniela Ospina, Fiore, Jacqueline Then, Jhoan Sebastian Grey, Johnathan Hayden, René by RR, Seta Apparel, Shantall Lacayo, Vero Diaz, Yas Gonzalez, and Yenny Bastida. Finalists presented imaginative virtual collections inside immersive digital environments that demonstrated how technology can enhance—not diminish—the artistry of fashion design.

The highest honor, Best Virtual Fashion Show, was awarded to Jhoan Sebastian Grey, earning him a coveted runway presentation during Miami Fashion Week this October, along with editorial exposure, mentorship, retail opportunities through The Fitting Room, and valuable industry introductions. Yas Gonzalez received Best Brand Narrative, while Vero Diaz earned Best Creative Direction, recognizing the growing importance of storytelling in today’s evolving luxury landscape.

Adding another layer of artistry was the debut of the awards’ sculptural statuette, created exclusively by artist Ada Da Silva, symbolizing the fusion of creativity, innovation, and design that defines the platform’s mission.

The celebration also recognized renowned Miami fashion designer René Ruiz for his enduring contributions to the city’s fashion industry, while Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr. added a touch of Hollywood glamour to the evening’s guest list.

Innovation extended beyond the runway through Miami Fashion Week’s collaboration with SCIRCLE, introducing AI-powered fragrance creation that translated each designer’s creative vision into bespoke scents, expanding fashion into an entirely new sensory experience.

As the evening concluded with an energetic live performance by Gabriel Coronel, one message became unmistakably clear: fashion’s future isn’t replacing tradition—it’s enhancing it.

With Miami Fashion Week returning October 13–17, 2026, this inaugural Virtual Fashion Awards successfully positioned Miami at the forefront of fashion’s next chapter, where technology amplifies creativity, storytelling becomes immersive, and the runway extends far beyond the catwalk.

On June 3, Miami tastemakers gathered for an elegant evening as Rémy Martin celebrated its This Is My City campaign at the posh Selva Lounge inside Amazónico Miami. The sophisticated affair paid tribute to the city’s rich diversity, creative energy, and entrepreneurial spirit, bringing together an effortlessly stylish crowd of artists, media personalities, fashion insiders, and influencers for one of the season’s most polished gatherings.

Set against the lush, transportive backdrop of Selva, the venue’s dramatic tropical interiors created the perfect setting for an evening that felt equal parts glamorous and intimate. The vibrant lounge buzzed with conversation as guests mingled beneath warm lighting while a soundtrack curated by Miami favorites DJ Bre and Slim City kept the atmosphere lively from start to finish. The energy was unmistakably Miami—refined, cosmopolitan, and effortlessly cool.

The evening honored Wanda Tima, founder of L’Union Media Group and its flagship platform, L’Union Suite, who was recognized as Miami’s This Is My City microgrant recipient. Through her work, Tima continues to elevate Haitian-American voices while reshaping the global narrative surrounding Haiti and its diaspora.

Hosting the celebration was BET’s All The Queen’s Men star Skyh Black, who serves as the Miami mentor for the initiative. The guest list reflected the city’s dynamic creative community, with notable attendees including model Eva Jarit, Miami R&B artist and MTV Siesta Key star Teenear, along with an impressive collection of local influencers, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders.

Of course, no Rémy Martin celebration would be complete without exceptional cocktails. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated selection featuring The Rémy Ginger, The Golden Grove, and The Noir Menta—each expertly crafted to showcase the smooth character and timeless elegance of Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. Every cocktail complemented the evening’s elevated ambiance, making the bar as much a destination as the event itself.

Beyond the impeccable cocktails and sophisticated setting, the evening celebrated purpose. This Is My City, powered by Rémy Martin V.S.O.P, is a mentorship and microgrant program supporting emerging creatives and entrepreneurs across major U.S. cities. Through funding, mentorship, and meaningful recognition, the initiative empowers the next generation of visionaries who are shaping culture within their communities.

Award-winning Argentinian burger concept La Birra Bar has officially opened its newest South Florida location on Miracle Mile, bringing its globally celebrated burgers, signature sauces, and elevated dining experience to the heart of the City Beautiful.

While Miami is certainly no stranger to great burgers, La Birra Bar takes the experience to another level. Known for its perfectly crafted patties, premium ingredients, and bold flavor combinations, the restaurant has built an international reputation among burger enthusiasts and food critics alike.

One of the standout features is the impressive lineup of house-made sauces that transform every burger into a flavor-packed experience. From creamy and savory to spicy and tangy, the sauces are every bit as memorable as the burgers themselves and are a major reason guests keep coming back for more.

The menu is filled with crave-worthy creations, including the viral Dubai Burger, inspired by the flavors and luxury synonymous with its namesake. The Only Fans Burger has quickly become a customer favorite thanks to its over-the-top indulgent ingredients and Instagram-worthy presentation. For those looking for the ultimate burger experience, the Golden Burger delivers a decadent combination of premium toppings and rich flavors worthy of its name.

Beyond the food, La Birra Bar accommodates guests with a sleek, stylish interior that feels more like a trendy neighborhood lounge than a traditional burger joint. Modern design elements, warm lighting, and an energetic atmosphere make it equally appealing for casual lunches, date nights, happy hours, and group dinners.

Adding to the experience is a curated selection of beer and wine, allowing guests to pair their burgers with everything from crisp lagers and craft brews to refreshing wines that complement the restaurant’s bold flavors.

Located in the heart of Miracle Mile, La Birra Bar is a welcomed addition to the long list of Coral Gables’ dining destinations. Whether you’re chasing Miami’s next viral burger, looking for an elevated casual dining experience, or simply craving one of the best burgers in town, this newcomer deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

One bite, a side of those unforgettable sauces, and you’ll understand why La Birra Bar has earned a loyal following around the world.

Two brands known for turning nostalgic treats into next-level indulgences—Salt & Straw and Miami favorite Santo Dulce—are teaming up for a limited-time Pride Month pop-up that promises to be every sweet tooth’s dream come true.

On June 6 and June 13 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Santo Dulce’s iconic retro airstream trailer will roll up outside Salt & Straw’s Wynwood scoop shop, giving guests the chance to pair their famous Churro Halos and ChurroCones with Salt & Straw’s crave-worthy ice cream flavors. Think Chocolate Gooey Brownie, Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, Miami-exclusive Panther Coffee Chocolate Tres Leches, and more.

And yes, I got an early preview of the decadent combo, and let’s just say I left hearing angels. Between Santo Dulce’s warm, freshly made churros and Salt & Straw’s rich, creamy scoops, the Santo Sundae is pure dessert magic. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and completely worth every delicious bite.

The festivities go beyond the sweets. In celebration of Pride Month, both evenings will feature live DJ sets and a tarot card-inspired “destiny” wheel, where guests can try their luck at scoring bonus churros, extra scoops, toppings, and other sweet surprises.

Whether you’re chasing your next Instagram-worthy treat, looking for a fun Pride Month outing, or simply believe churros and ice cream belong together, this limited-time Wynwood pop-up deserves a spot on your June calendar. Just come hungry—and maybe prepare to hear angels, too.

Salt & Straw x Santo Dulce Pride Month Pop-Up

• When: June 6 & June 13, 2025 | 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Where: Salt & Straw Wynwood, 246 NW 25th St., Miami, FL 33127
• What to Expect: Churro Halos, ChurroCones, specialty ice cream pairings, live DJs, and a chance to win sweet upgrades through the “destiny” wheel.

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