The Timeline

According to the City of Miami’s Office of Capital Improvements, the following schedule is now in place, though officials caution it could shift due to weather or other unforeseen conditions:

• End of September 2026: Miami-Dade Water and Sewer (WASD) is expected to complete water connectivity work for temporary trailers that will house Parks and Recreation staff during construction.
• End of September 2026: Demolition of the existing community center building is set to begin as soon as the trailer hookups are complete.
• End of October 2026: Demolition is expected to be finished, a process anticipated to take about one month.
• Early November 2026: Construction of the new building begins with excavation work.
• Completion date: To be determined, based on how construction progresses.

The park’s afterschool program will continue operating at Armbrister Park facilities until further notice as the project moves forward.

A Long Road to Groundbreaking

The project has been years in the making. It was first proposed in 2020 by then-District 2 Commissioner Ken Russell, and has since gone through multiple rounds of community input and design revisions. Funding was finally approved as part of the city’s 2024-25 fiscal budget, and the most recent design plans were presented to the community at a meeting on March 26, 2026.

The project is now being carried forward under current District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo, in partnership with the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation and Office of Capital Improvements.

What’s Replacing the Old Building

The existing single-story community center — located within the 4.4-acre park at 4000 Grand Avenue — will be replaced by a new two-story structure of roughly 10,000 square feet, along with an outdoor pavilion. Planned features include:

• An administration office and entrance reception area
• A food prep room and multi-purpose room
• Workrooms, including an art workroom with a sink
• Elevator access to the second floor
• Restrooms on both levels, with first-floor restrooms accessible from outside
• An information technology room with laptop charging stations
• Sports equipment storage with exterior access
• Three individual classrooms
• Interior storage for tables, chairs, and recreation supplies
• Landscaping and an electrical power generator
• An Art in Public Places component

The design also incorporates Caribbean and Bahamian architectural influences, a nod to the cultural heritage of West Coconut Grove. Beyond day-to-day recreation and after-school programming, the new center is also intended to serve as an outreach center during hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Honoring the Park’s History

Armbrister Park is named for Esther Mae Potts Armbrister, a Bahamian-descended community activist known for her advocacy at Miami City Hall, including a campaign to renovate a local park and secure historic designation for parts of West Grove. Within the current community center hangs a plaque honoring the park’s first recreation supervisor, Carolyn Evans Payne — and some community members have expressed hope that her legacy will be preserved in some form even after the old building comes down.

Former Commissioner Ken Russell, who first pushed for the project, said the years of community engagement paid off. “The hard part is done. The political will was there to create the plan, listen to the community, and gather the stakeholders,” Russell said, adding that the new facility will serve as a much-needed central hub for the neighborhood beyond sports and cultural programming.

What’s Next

The city has not yet announced a completion date for the new building, which will depend on how construction progresses once excavation begins in November. Residents can submit feedback on the project through the Office of Capital Improvements or by emailing AskOCI@miamigov.com

Renderings Source: City of Miami Office of Capital Improvements

The post Demolition Nears for Aging Armbrister Park Community Center as $10 Million Rebuild Moves Forward appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

Miami’s Brunch Capital is going all out for National Brunch Day.

On Sunday, Sept. 20, the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID) will celebrate National Brunch Day with ‘Brunching in the Grove,’ a neighborhood-wide experience that takes brunch beyond the restaurant table, bringing together the Grove’s restaurants, retailers, cocktails, live music and unmistakable village atmosphere for a full Sunday in the neighborhood.

The celebration builds on Coconut Grove’s recognition as Miami’s Brunch Capital and invites locals and visitors to make a day of it: shop for the perfect look at participating Grove retailers, make a reservation at one of the neighborhood’s many brunch destinations, then stay to sip, shop, listen to live music and explore the district.

For the two weeks leading up to National Brunch Day, participating Grove retailers will also offer special promotions and incentives to encourage visitors to shop and find their Sunday brunch ‘look’ before Sept. 20. From fashion and accessories to everything needed to complete the perfect brunch aesthetic, the promotion gives visitors another reason to explore the Grove before the celebration even begins.

Then, on National Brunch Day, restaurants throughout Coconut Grove will welcome guests for brunch, with menus ranging from neighborhood favorites to Miami Spice offerings.

And brunch isn’t limited to restaurants serving traditional brunch menus. Even Grove restaurants that don’t typically offer brunch are getting in on the celebration with special National Brunch Day cocktails, giving visitors even more reasons to make their way around the neighborhood throughout the day.

The celebration will also spill into the streets, with live entertainment planned along McFarlane Road near Santander, adding music and energy to the heart of the district.

“Coconut Grove has earned its reputation as Miami’s Brunch Capital, but what makes brunch here so special is everything that happens alongside the eating experience,” said Mark Burns, Executive Director, Coconut Grove BID. “You can find something to wear, meet friends for an incredible meal, hear music, grab a drink, wander into a shop and suddenly you’ve spent the whole day in the Grove. For National Brunch Day, we wanted to celebrate that entire experience and invite people to make a Sunday of it.”

Brunching in the Grove is part of the Coconut Grove BID’s ongoing work to bring the district’s businesses together through experiences that encourage people to discover more of the neighborhood. By connecting restaurants with retailers, entertainment and the Grove’s walkable setting, National Brunch Day gives visitors a reason not simply to come for brunch, but to stay awhile.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to make their brunch reservations, plan their looks and mark their calendars for Sunday, Sept. 20.

The post Miami’s Brunch Capital Takes Brunch Beyond the Restaurant and into the Community for National Brunch Day appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

Miami is about to get a major dose of star power, sweat and wellness as Faces of Fitness, titled as the largest lifestyle fitness, health and wellness festival in the United States, makes its South Florida debut this October.

Originating in Chicago, Faces of Fitness is bringing its high-energy festival experience to Coconut Grove for the first time on October 24–25, 2026, transforming Regatta Park into a gathering place for fitness enthusiasts, wellness devotees, music lovers and Miami’s active community.

And leading the Miami debut is none other than Dwyane Wade.

The Miami icon and NBA champion will headline Faces of Fitness 2026, adding serious star power to a weekend designed around movement, wellness, entertainment and community.

Faces of Fitness is designed to reach far beyond the traditional gym crowd. It is for the movement addicts, fitness fanatics, sober curious, community creators, self-care queens, booty shakers, outdoor obsessed, summer lovers, beat-driven baddies, yogis and yoginis, mental health advocates, HIIT devotees and EDM fans.

Simply put: if movement is part of your lifestyle, Faces of Fitness is for you.

The festival brings fitness and wellness into a more immersive, social environment, combining workouts, music, community and lifestyle experiences into a weekend designed to keep attendees moving.

Miami’s Fitness Stars Take the Stage

The inaugural Miami edition is bringing some of the biggest names in the city’s fitness and wellness scene.

The lineup includes Mimi Yoga, Jacqueline Kasen of Anatomy, Aryan Rashed of Tremble, Rachel Robinson and Derek DeGrazio of Barry’s, and Natali Melani and Lucia Di Tore of lululemon, alongside major fitness and wellness brands including Anatomy, Orangetheory, Tremble, Barry’s, lululemon, BODYROK, Club Studio, 305 Fitness and Peloton, among others.

With so many recognizable names and brands coming together, the festival offers attendees an opportunity to experience different approaches to fitness while connecting with the personalities and communities shaping Miami’s wellness culture.

From Chicago to Coconut Grove

Faces of Fitness began in Chicago and is now expanding to Miami, bringing its festival format to one of South Florida’s most iconic neighborhoods.

For Coconut Grove, the event adds another major lifestyle experience to a neighborhood known for its outdoor spaces, active community and vibrant social scene.

But Faces of Fitness isn’t positioning itself as simply another fitness expo. Its festival approach brings together exercise, music, wellness and culture, creating an atmosphere closer to a music festival than a traditional fitness convention.

The Miami Debut

With Dwyane Wade headlining and an extensive lineup of fitness personalities and brands, Faces of Fitness 2026 is shaping up to be one of Miami’s major new wellness events of the year.

The inaugural Miami edition takes place:

FACES OF FITNESS 2026
📍 Regatta Park, Coconut Grove, Miami
📅 October 24–25, 2026
⭐ Headliner: Dwyane Wade

Tickets and event information are available at Faces of Fitness Miami, Presented by CELSIUS 

Use code GROVE10 for a ticket discount.

Miami, get ready to move.

The post THE NATION’S LARGEST FITNESS FESTIVAL IS COMING TO MIAMI THIS OCTOBER appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

At Arbor Residences, the details made the difference.

The Coconut Grove residential community recently hosted an exclusive broker event bringing together Miami real estate professionals for an educational conversation on pre-construction sales, paired with an intimate pop-up shopping experience by YELIZ THE STUDIO.

Yeliz Titiz brought her signature eye for interiors and styling to the community room, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere where guests could gather, mingle and enjoy the evening surrounded by carefully selected pieces. Meanwhile, the community room, lush greenery, and perfectly pristine pool provided the perfect backdrop for YELIZ THE STUDIO’s curated collection.

The event featured an educational conversation led by Alicia Lamadrid Paysse, who shared her expertise on development sales, creating value for buyers, handling objections and building urgency that can turn interest into action. The conversation offered brokers valuable insight into the strategies behind successful pre-construction sales.

The pop-up featured an eclectic mix of sculptural objects, vintage-inspired glassware, botanical arrangements, metallic animal figures, statement trays and distinctive accessories. From a striking gold serpent sculpture and leopard figurine to crystal pineapple accents, emerald-green glass and dramatic orchids, each piece brought its own personality to the space while complementing the contemporary setting.

The result was warm, sophisticated and inviting, a space designed not only to look beautiful, but to make guests feel at home.

The event also introduced YELIZ THE STUDIO’s newly launched Realtor Program, created to give real estate professionals access to a distinctive collection of furniture, home décor accessories, fashion jewelry and interior design services with a refined international point of view.

Through the program, qualifying realtors can receive a 5% referral fee, while their clients can receive a 10% discount on qualifying interior design project orders of $5,000 or more. The program creates an opportunity for Realtors to offer their clients an elevated design resource, whether they are furnishing a new residence, preparing a property for sale or creating a completely personalized interior.

For a development like Arbor Residences, creating an inviting environment is an important part of the experience. The thoughtfully styled community room gave brokers and guests the opportunity to enjoy the space, connect with one another and experience firsthand how carefully chosen décor can influence the feeling of a home.

After all, a well-designed space can help prospective buyers imagine not just the property they are purchasing, but how life inside that property could feel.

That philosophy is at the heart of YELIZ THE STUDIO, where Yeliz Titiz combines refined pieces with unexpected details to create interiors that feel personal, layered and inviting. Her approach brings together different textures, shapes, colors and materials, allowing each space to feel collected rather than overly designed.

Adding another dimension to the event, the YELIZ THE STUDIO pop-up gave guests the opportunity to discover and shop many of the distinctive pieces showcased throughout the space. It was a natural extension of an evening focused on connection, education and inspiration, allowing guests to take away valuable insights from the sales conversation while also discovering unique pieces that could bring character and personality into their own homes.

At Arbor Residences, where contemporary living meets the unmistakable character of Coconut Grove, the event was a reminder that great spaces are often defined by the details.

To learn more about the YELIZ THE STUDIO Realtor Program, contact Yeliz or visit YELIZ THE STUDIO, 2990 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove.

Event Location: Arbor Residences, 3034 Oak Avenue, Coconut Grove, Miami
Special Feature: YELIZ THE STUDIO Pop-Up Shopping Experience
Educational Speaker: Alicia Lamadrid Paysse & Sandra Masis of Cervera
www.grovearbor.com
www.yelizthestudio.com

The post YELIZ THE STUDIO Stages Arbor Residences for an Exclusive Broker Event appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

For our next Three Questions feature, I am proud to spotlight Lissette Calderon, Founder and CEO of Neology Group, a Coconut Grove based real estate development firm with a massive footprint across Miami’s urban core.

Lissette and I have known each other for almost twenty years. In that time, I have watched her build one of the most respected women-founded development platforms in South Florida. Her team has delivered more than 3,000 residential units across Miami’s urban core, with a portfolio spanning nearly 5 million square feet and valued at more than $2 billion. Neology also has more than 2,000 additional units in pre-construction and permitting across South Florida.

We are featuring Lissette not only because of what she has built but because of how she is using her Coconut Grove-based firm to IMPACT the next generation of women leaders. Through Neology Group’s Women in Real Estate Internship, known as WiRE, she brings young women from across Miami-Dade County to Coconut Grove to explore careers in commercial real estate and advance their professional paths.

WiRE is an annual competitive internship program designed for driven female high school and college students from diverse backgrounds. A limited group of select participants explore careers in development, construction, finance, investments, law, public policy, marketing, and property management. Through hands-on workshops, team projects, site visits, and mentorship, they gain firsthand insight into the many career paths inside commercial real estate.

1. What is your oldest memory of Coconut Grove?

My oldest memories of Coconut Grove date back to the early 1990s when I was a student at Coral Gables Senior High School and had just gotten my first car. My friends and I would drive around Main Highway with the windows down, convinced the most important thing in the world was seeing who was in the Grove that night. We tried our luck getting into places like Sandbar and Sharkey’s, only to find out we weren’t 21.

Back then, the Grove was quirky, local, and full of life. CocoWalk had just opened, Barracuda was always buzzing, and every weekend seemed to end with running into half of Miami. As we headed off to college, Scotty’s Landing became our unofficial reunion spot, where we would gather each summer for fish sandwiches (no paprika) at Dinner Key and catch up with friends.

One of my favorite memories came later when I first met my now husband at Señor Frog’s. Looking back, Coconut Grove wasn’t just where I spent my youth. It was where some of life’s most important chapters began. From my first taste of freedom behind the wheel of a car to lifelong friendships and eventually meeting my husband, many of my fondest memories are rooted in the Grove.

2. Where do you see the biggest opportunity for the Grove over the next 12 to 18 months?

Coconut Grove has always been more than a place. It is a lifestyle. What makes it so special is that it continues to be woven into people’s lives across generations.

Years after spending my high school days and college breaks in the Grove, I found myself buying my first home here and raising my daughters in the same neighborhood that had already given me so many memories. From bringing them to A.C.’s Icees after school and taking our dogs to Kennedy Park to enjoying lunches by the water and still running into familiar faces, the Grove has remained a constant throughout every stage of life.

That is why I believe the biggest opportunity over the next 12 to 18 months is proving that growth and history can coexist.

The Grove has never stood still. It has evolved over generations, but it has remained special because it has held onto the qualities that define it: its sense of place, vibrant local businesses, walkability, connection to the waterfront, and strong community fabric.

As long as we continue to welcome new residents, businesses, and ideas while preserving the character that people have always loved, future generations will have the same opportunity to create their own memories and traditions here as so many of us have.

3. What is your favorite thing to do in Coconut Grove?

One of my favorite traditions is what we call “Freebee Fridays,” when our Neology team hops on the Freebee ID Buzz Bus and heads to local favorites, including Bombay Darbar, for lunch together. With Neology Group’s corporate offices based in Coconut Grove, we enjoy taking advantage of the neighborhood’s walkability, waterfront views, and unique character.

About Luis Andre

Luis Andre Gazitua is a long-time Coconut Grove resident, advocate, investor, and board member of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District. He works at the intersection of government, business, and public affairs, helping teams navigate complex processes and build practical partnerships that strengthen the region.

The post Grove Impact: Three Questions Featuring Lissette M. Calderon Founder & CEO of Neology Group appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

The 38,400-square-foot fitness and wellness destination welcomed guests throughout the day, with the DJ keeping the energy high as visitors toured the new facility and experienced its range of fitness, recovery and wellness offerings.

The grand opening brought together fitness and wellness brands that helped make the event a full-day experience beyond the workout floor.

Poshi joined the celebration with its all-natural, ready-to-eat marinated vegetables and olives. The brand, whose name stands for “Power Of Simple Healthy Ingredients,” offered guests a convenient, healthy snacking option that fit naturally into the fitness-focused event.

Kalologie was also on-site representing its newly opened MedSpa located inside Club Studio. Founder Tracy Brennan represented the brand during the celebration, while Kalologie offered guests complimentary B12 vitamin shots, adding an extra wellness boost to the festivities.

Guests also enjoyed live music, a photo booth, freebies, organic snacks and other activations from participating brands throughout the grand opening.

One of the highlights was Club Studio’s recovery area, where guests got a first look at wellness services including red light therapy and other recovery treatments. The facility also features spa-inspired amenities, creating an experience that combines fitness, recovery and relaxation.

Club Studio is operated by Los Angeles-based Fitness International LLC, which was founded in 1984 and operates nearly 700 fitness clubs across the United States and Canada.

Located at the entrance to Coconut Grove at the intersection of U.S. 1 and 27th Avenue, the new 38,400-square-foot facility offers boutique fitness classes alongside free weights, strength and cardio areas, a dedicated functional training area and personal training.

Its wellness offerings include recovery services, cryotherapy, red light therapy, infrared sauna options, locker rooms and a wellness café.

The opening marks another major addition to Grove Central, the mixed-use, transit-oriented development developed by Miami-based Terra and Grass River Property.

Grove Central includes a 23-story residential tower with 402 multifamily, workforce and co-living units, a 1,250-space public parking garage and approximately 170,000 square feet of neighborhood-oriented retail space.

The development also connects with the Coconut Grove Metrorail station and The Underline, while integrating with Miami-Dade’s bus system and the City of Miami trolley network.

Club Studio is now part of Grove Central’s growing retail lineup, which includes Target, Sprouts Farmers Market, Total Wine and Five Below.

With music playing, guests taking photos, sampling healthy snacks, receiving wellness treatments and exploring the new fitness space, the grand opening introduced Club Studio as a new fitness and wellness destination at the entrance to Coconut Grove.

The post CLUB STUDIO GRAND OPENING AT GROVE CENTRAL appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

Summer Events Heat Up Amerant Bank Arena on August 22 & 23

(SUNRISE, FL / July 2, 2026) – Nothing compares to the one and only Monster Jam® to become a fan for life with an ultimate day of family fun at Amerant Bank Arena on Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23, 2026.  Get ready to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over your hometown, Sunrise, for a weekend packed with stunts, smiles, and jaw-dropping skills.  With awesome trucks, amazing stunts, big air, and action-packed excitement, it’s the definition of fun for everyone!

This isn’t just any event – it’s unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable, where 12,000-pound trucks stand on two wheels and fly through the air in competitions of speed and skill.  It’s all happening at Monster Jam, where your outside voice is allowed, and every big moment comes with an even bigger smile!

Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!

Tickets are on sale now at SeatGeek.com. Monster Jam Preferred Customers get the first chance to snag the best seats; fans can still sign up for free to grab an exclusive pre-sale code. The general public can purchase tickets starting Tuesday, April 28.

Feel the Thrill of Full-Throttle Fun

Get ready for big-time entertainment as Sunrise roars to life with gravity-defying stunts, heart-pounding races, and plenty of big air!  The world’s best drivers tear up the dirt as they battle for the Event Championship in three competitions: Racing, 2 Wheel Skills, and everyone’s favorite, Freestyle, where MonsterJam trucks defy the laws of physics and do the impossible.  Fans will be right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the Event Champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves.

Start the Fun Early at the Monster Jam Pit Party®

The day of fun starts at the Monster Jam Pit Party® on Saturday and Sunday – your first stop for smiles, selfies with the trucks, high-fives and autographs from drivers, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to start a day of adrenaline-charged fun, plus get an insider’s look at how these 12,000-pound trucks are built to stand up to the competition.

Meet the Superstars of Monster Jam!

These aren’t just any drivers – they’re world-class male and female athletes who have mastered controlling these 12,000-pound beasts. Whether pulling off insane backflips, nailing vertical 2-wheel tricks, or tearing up the track in all-out racing, these drivers are ready to wow fans with the most mind-blowing live motorsports action around.

WHEN:                    

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Event Time – 12:00 PM & 6:00 PM

Pit Party open from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

(Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

Sunday, August 23, 2026
Event Time – 1:00 PM
Pit Party open from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
(Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry)

TICKETS:             

Gravity-defying action, down-to-earth prices!

Tickets and Pit Party Passes are now available for purchase online at SeatGeek.com or in- person at the   venue box office.

*Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply

TRUCK & DRIVER LINE-UP:

Grave Digger® driven by Krysten Anderson; Sparkle Smash® driven by Kayla Blood; El Toro Loco® driven by Armando Castro; JCB DIGatronä driven by Tony Ochs; Classroom Crusherä with driver Charlie Pauken III;Terminal Velocity driven by Jon Zimmer Jr.; Jester driven by Matt Pagliarulo; and Excaliber driven by Mike Pagliarulo.

**Truck and driver line-up subject to change

The post Get Ready for the One and Only Monster Jam® in Sunrise! appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

There may be no better time to explore Coconut Grove’s dining scene than during Miami Spice.

Returning throughout August and September 2026, the annual restaurant celebration gives locals and visitors an extra reason to make that reservation they’ve been meaning to book—from acclaimed culinary destinations to neighborhood favorites they somehow haven’t tried yet. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Miami Spice, with specially priced menus offered throughout the two-month celebration.

And in Coconut Grove, there is plenty on the menu.

Twenty-six Coconut Grove restaurants are participating in Miami Spice this year, making the Grove one of the most exciting neighborhoods to experience the program.

As Mark Burns, Executive Director of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District, puts it:

“Miami Spice is one of the best times of year to dine in Coconut Grove. It gives people a reason to finally visit restaurants they’ve been meaning to try, whether that’s a Michelin-starred destination or a neighborhood favorite they’ve somehow never made it to. It’s also the perfect time to experience why it’s known as one of Miami’s best dining destinations.

What makes Coconut Grove especially exciting this year is the variety. You can experience everything from newer additions like Manoli, our newest Greek restaurant, to longtime favorites like Bombay Darbar and Loretta & The Butcher, along with acclaimed destinations like Ariete. With 26 participating restaurants, there’s definitely something for every taste and every occasion.

Our restaurants are a huge part of what makes Coconut Grove special. Miami Spice is a fantastic opportunity to support our local hospitality community, discover a new favorite spot, and create memories with family and friends while experiencing everything the neighborhood has to offer.”

A Taste of the Grove

The 2026 Coconut Grove lineup showcases just how broad the neighborhood’s culinary identity has become. Diners can explore everything from Italian, Greek and Mediterranean cuisine to Indian, Japanese, American and steakhouse fare—all within the Grove’s distinctive tropical setting.

The participating restaurants are:

• Glass & Vine
• Isabelle’s Coconut Grove
• Bellini
• Bayshore Club
• Mayfair Grill
• Amal Miami
• Level 6 Rooftop Restaurant
• Jaguar Restaurant
• Ariete Restaurant
• Bombay Darbar Miami
• Happy Wine in the Grove
• BaiaBlu Italian Restaurant
• La Cabrera – Coconut Grove
• Loretta & the Butcher
• Sushi Garage Cocowalk
• KOKO
• Le Specialita Café & Market
• AVA Coconut Grove
• Da Angelino
• Grand Public
• Manoli
• Cotoletta Miami
• Chop Steakhouse & Bar
• Drinking Pig
• 1986 Steakhouse

The variety is part of the appeal. A Miami Spice outing can mean a casual lunch, a rooftop dinner, a waterfront meal or a special occasion at one of Coconut Grove’s more celebrated restaurants.

From Newcomers to Grove Classics

For diners eager to discover what’s new, Manoli brings Greek cuisine to the Miami Spice lineup, while established favorites including Bombay Darbar, Loretta & the Butcher, Glass & Vine, Bayshore Club and KOKO offer opportunities to revisit restaurants that have become part of the Grove’s dining fabric.

Then there are destinations such as Ariete, where Miami’s culinary reputation and Coconut Grove’s neighborhood character come together.

The setting itself is another reason to make Coconut Grove part of a Miami Spice itinerary. From tree-canopied streets to rooftop views and waterfront dining, the neighborhood offers an atmosphere that makes the experience about more than simply what’s on the plate.

Miami Spice, With a Little More Spice

The 2026 program offers $40 brunch and lunch menus, $50 and $65 dinner menus, plus a new Miami Spice Reserve tier starting at $95 for elevated dining experiences.

For diners looking for something beyond the traditional three-course experience, the program also includes Signature Dining Experiences at select restaurants.

In Coconut Grove, AVA Coconut Grove is offering an eight-course MediterrAegean Chef’s Tasting Experience, taking diners on a more immersive culinary journey through Mediterranean flavors. Le Specialita Café & Market is also offering a pasta cooking class as part of the Signature Dining Experiences program.

At Bellini, the rooftop restaurant at Mr. C Miami – Coconut Grove, Miami Spice provides another opportunity to pair Italian cuisine with the Grove’s lush surroundings and Biscayne Bay views.

A Reason to Dine Local

While Miami Spice is ultimately about food, its impact reaches beyond the dining table.

Restaurants are an important part of Coconut Grove’s identity. They create gathering places, bring visitors into the neighborhood and contribute to the energy and character that make the Grove one of Miami’s most distinctive communities.

For local diners, Spice is an invitation to try somewhere new. For visitors, it is an opportunity to experience Coconut Grove through its restaurants, streets and unique atmosphere. And for the hospitality community, it is a chance to introduce new customers to the restaurants they have worked so hard to build.

This year, the Miami Spice program is also encouraging diners to Dine With Purpose, with an optional donation opportunity benefiting Camillus House.

So if you’ve been saying, “We need to try that place,” Miami Spice is your sign.

Make the reservation. Bring your appetite. Explore Coconut Grove—and taste your way through Miami Spice.

Restaurant participation, menus, pricing and availability may vary. Check with each restaurant or the official Miami Spice program for current menu details, participating dates and reservations.

The post Miami Spice in the Grove: A Delicious Reason to Explore Coconut Grove appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

Founded in 1973, Capitol Steel Structures is a Miami-based, family-owned company specializing in the design, fabrication and erection of high-quality steel structures. With decades of experience across commercial, residential and industrial projects, the company is known for precision craftsmanship, innovative solutions and a steadfast commitment to safety and excellence.

Its portfolio reflects the breadth of its work throughout South Florida and beyond, including the ARKUP floating luxury home at Star Island, infrastructure work at the Port of Miami, the Slam Bridge for a multilevel public school, and the Kaufman Rossin headquarters in Coconut Grove. Capitol Steel Structures has also contributed steelwork to major developments including SunTrust corporate offices, Inter Miami CF facilities, the Kaseya Center at 800 Brickell transformation, and the Moxy Hotel in North Carolina, as well as community projects such as Children’s Village in Overtown and the USCG Sector Station in Key West.

As an AISC-certified steel fabricator and erector, Capitol Steel Structures has built its reputation on delivering strong, reliable structures that meet demanding industry standards and stand the test of time.

Today, however, the company is raising concerns about a very different challenge: the growing instability in the domestic steel market and its increasingly significant impact on small and medium-sized steel distributors, fabricators and related businesses.

Capitol Steel Structures has formally brought these concerns to the White House, highlighting the challenges created by rising and unpredictable steel prices, depleted inventories, extended lead times and escalating costs throughout the supply chain.

Unprecedented Demand Is Putting Pressure on the Steel Supply Chain

According to Capitol Steel Structures, the rapid expansion of data center construction across the United States has created unprecedented demand for structural steel and related products. Large-scale projects are consuming substantial quantities of available material, placing additional pressure on an already strained supply chain.

For smaller companies, the consequences can be particularly difficult.

While large corporations may have the financial resources to absorb higher costs and secure long-term supply agreements, independent steel companies often do not have the same purchasing power. Capitol Steel Structures says it is increasingly difficult to secure sufficient inventory at reasonable prices while continuing to meet customer demand.

In some cases, rapidly escalating material costs have priced the company out of opportunities it would otherwise be well-positioned to serve.

“These market conditions affect much more than the steel industry,” said Ruben Diaz, President of Capitol Steel Structures. “They impact the manufacturers, contractors, builders and local economies that depend on small and independent businesses. We want to continue competing, creating jobs and serving our customers, but access to materials and predictable pricing are becoming increasingly difficult.”

Calling for a Fair Opportunity for Small Businesses

Capitol Steel Structures is asking the Administration to provide greater clarity on what steps are being taken to stabilize the domestic steel market and improve the availability of steel products for small businesses.

The company is specifically seeking information regarding potential efforts to:

• Address steel supply constraints and depleted inventories;
• Encourage continued growth in domestic steel production;
• Improve transparency within the steel market;
• Improve access to steel products for small and medium-sized businesses; and
• Help ensure smaller firms can compete on a more level playing field.

The company stressed that it supports efforts to strengthen American infrastructure, manufacturing and technological development, including the growth of major technology and data center projects.

However, Capitol Steel Structures believes that the benefits of America’s continued economic and technological growth should also reach the small businesses that have long served their communities and contributed to the nation’s economy.

“Capitol Steel Structures fully supports strengthening American infrastructure, manufacturing and technological development,” said Diaz. “At the same time, it is important that these initiatives do not unintentionally disadvantage the small businesses that have contributed to the strength of our communities and our economy for decades.”

A Concern for the Broader Construction Industry

The company believes the issue deserves attention because the availability and cost of steel have a direct effect on the broader construction industry. When material becomes more expensive or difficult to obtain, the impact can extend to contractors, builders, manufacturers and project owners through higher costs and potential delays.

As major construction and technology investments continue across the United States, Capitol Steel Structures is calling for policies and market conditions that allow businesses of all sizes to participate in that growth.

For more than five decades, Capitol Steel Structures has helped build the places, facilities and infrastructure that shape South Florida and communities beyond. The company says its goal in raising the issue is straightforward: to ensure that America’s investment in infrastructure, manufacturing and technology creates opportunities for small businesses as well as large corporations.

About Capitol Steel Structures

Founded in 1973, Capitol Steel Structures is a Miami-based, family-owned steel fabrication and erection company specializing in the design, fabrication and erection of high-quality steel structures. With decades of experience across commercial, residential and industrial projects, the company delivers precision craftsmanship, innovative solutions and a steadfast commitment to safety and excellence.

As an AISC-certified steel fabricator and erector, Capitol Steel Structures provides structural steel fabrication and erection, metal decking, welding, custom manufacturing and related services throughout Florida and the region.

The Official Letter to The White House

Capitol Steel Structures
2188 NW 25^th Avenue
Miami, FL 33142

August 5, 2026

The White House
Office of the President of the United States
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Subject: Concerns Regarding Steel Market Instability and Its Impact on Small Businesses

Dear Mr. President,

I am writing on behalf of Capitol Steel Structures in Miami, Florida, a small business serving customers throughout our community and region. We, along with many other small and medium-sized steel distributors, fabricators, and related businesses, are facing significant challenges due to ongoing instability within the domestic steel market.

Over the past several years, steel prices have experienced substantial and often unpredictable increases. More recently, the unprecedented demand generated by the rapid expansion of data center construction across the United States has created additional pressure on the supply chain. Large-scale projects are consuming vast quantities of structural steel and related products, resulting in depleted inventories, extended lead times, and escalating costs throughout the market.

While major corporations involved in these projects have the financial resources to absorb higher prices and secure long-term supply agreements, smaller businesses such as ours do not enjoy the same advantages. As a result, many independent steel companies are finding it increasingly difficult to compete. We are frequently unable to secure material at reasonable prices or obtain sufficient inventory to meet customer demand. In many cases, the rapid escalation of costs has effectively priced us out of opportunities that we would otherwise be well-positioned to serve.

These market conditions create challenges not only for steel businesses but also for the manufacturers, contractors, builders, and local economies that depend upon us. Small businesses are the backbone of many communities, yet we are increasingly bearing the burden of supply shortages and inflationary pressures without a clear path toward relief.

We respectfully ask: What steps is the Administration taking to stabilize the steel market and improve the availability of steel products for small businesses? Are there initiatives under consideration to address supply constraints, encourage domestic production growth, improve market transparency, or otherwise help ensure that smaller firms can compete on a level playing field?

We fully support efforts to strengthen American infrastructure, manufacturing, and technological development. However, it is equally important that these initiatives do not unintentionally disadvantage the small businesses that have long contributed to the strength of our nation’s economy and their local communities. 

Thank you for your time and consideration of these concerns. We would greatly appreciate any information regarding the Administration’s plans to address these ongoing challenges and support the small business community.

Respectfully,

Ruben Diaz 

Capitol Steel Structures

The post Miami Steel Company Capitol Steel Structures Raises Alarm Over Steel Market Instability and Its Impact on Small Businesses appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.

There’s a particular kind of excitement that hums through a neighborhood when a place it’s been quietly rooting for finally opens its doors. Today, that place is Miami Slice, and that neighborhood is Coconut Grove. Today, Wednesday, August 12, the Miami Slice Hospitality team swings open the doors to its newest flagship, tucked into the heart of the Grove, next to the Mr. C Hotel at the historic Engle Building, and from the sound of it, they’re bracing for a crowd. 

“We open on Wednesday, and we’re expecting to be slammed,” a member of the Grove team said during a walk-through ahead of opening. “We’re looking forward to it.” 

A cult favorite, leveled up 

If you’ve lived in Miami for any stretch of the last few years, you already know the name. Miami Slice started as a pandemic-era “pizza lab,” tinkering with New York–style slices until the lines made the tinkering official. Since then, it’s grown into a small but serious operation: the “OG” slice bar in Downtown Miami, a takeout spot in Key Biscayne, and a slice shop inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The Grove is the group’s fourth official location, and, by design, its most ambitious. 

The pedigree backs up the hype. Miami Slice was recently ranked the #3 best pizza slice in the United States by 50 Top Pizza, the respected international pizza guide, the top-ranked slice spot in Florida and third nationwide. 

What makes the Grove different 

Here’s the thing that actually matters to anyone who’s already a regular at the other spots: the Grove location has something none of them do – a wood-fired oven, exclusive to this address. 

It’s the engine behind a small, Grove-only menu of dishes crafted by culinary director Jose “Chema” Cardenas. “We have some of our Grove exclusives that come out of that wood-fired oven,” the team explained. “They’re exclusive here in the Grove, the other Miami Slice locations don’t have them.” 

The result is a slice bar that feels familiar but cooks like somewhere new. 

What to order 

Start with the starters, the kind of thing you order while you’re figuring out how many slices you really need. The team’s recommendations: 

• The Beef Carpaccio — a starter that sets the tone while you settle in. 

• Wood-fired cabbage — charred and smoky off the oven, the sort of side that quietly steals the show. 

• Watercress Caesar — a peppery, fresh counterpoint to the richness of the pies. 

• Caprese —heirloom tomatoes and stracciatella, the creamy cousin of mozzarella, kept simple and let to shine. 

Then, the main event: the slices. Miami Slice keeps five “OG” slice flavors in rotation, and the team suggests two per person — “or three, if you’re really hungry.” The signatures the brand is known for all make the trip south: 

• Pepperoni Proper — the one people make the trip for. 

• Mushroom Truffle 

• Leeks on Bacon 

The slice itself 

So what makes a Miami Slice worth going to the Grove for? Start with the amount of pepperoni. Where most places scatter a polite handful across the top, Miami Slice lays it on dense, edge to edge, curling into little cups of rendered fat and crisp in the oven’s heat. “Our pepperoni is very unique,” the team said. “Nobody does it like that. Anybody could put five pepperonis on a slice, but ours is very different.” 

The foundation underneath is a thin, carefully fermented, New York–style dough, foldable, with just enough chew, that the team has been refining since those early pizza-lab days. And the pro move, the one the regulars all know: get the Pepperoni Proper with all the kicks: hot honey, straciatella, fresh basil, olive oil, freshly ground pepper and shredded parm. The heat, the sweet, the salt, and the rendered pepperoni fat are exactly the reason this place developed a following in the first place. 

The vibe 

The Grove flagship is all about the vibe, while still delivering the signature Miami Slice experience. The room is dark, intimate, and layered in bold red tones that keep the energy, and of course your appetite going. The moody lighting, glowing wood-fired oven, and red accents create a space that feels energetic, sexy, and unmistakably Miami.

At the center is the signature slice bar, with chef’s-table-style seating where guests can watch the pies come straight from the oven. New booths make room for small groups and families, while curated wine and beer round out the experience.

The space is intentionally small and personal, designed to feel like a neighborhood hangout rather than a large dining room built for volume. Dark, red, intimate, and a little addictive, the kind of room that makes you want to stay for another slice and come back for more.

If you go 

• Where: Coconut Grove, next to the Mr. C Hotel at the Historic Engle Building 

• Opening: Wednesday, August 12, 2026 

• Summer hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 5–11 p.m. 

• Vibe: Walk-in slice bar with booths, family-friendly, beer and wine 

• More info: miamislicehospitality.com 

The people behind it 

Miami Slice was founded by Alejandro Diaz, who developed the original recipes and drove the culinary evolution from pizza lab to mini-empire. He’s joined by managing partner Manuel Peinado (finance and operations), culinary director Jose “Chema” Cardenas, and operating partner Santiago Huen. Miami Slice Hospitality’s broader portfolio includes La Latina Miami, Tina in the Gables, and The Gibson Room. 

The Grove has been waiting for this one. As of today, the wait is over, and the wood-fired oven is already lit. 

The post Miami Slice Opens in Coconut Grove  appeared first on Coconut Grove Magazine.