The closure, however, is not permanent. Instead, the iconic South Beach establishment set on Lincoln Road has announced that it will relocate to Miami Worldcenter, the $6 billion, 27-acre mixed-use development currently underway in downtown Miami.
Juvia first opened its doors in Miami Beach in 2012, when it introduced a unique collaboration of cuisines set against a stunning backdrop of Miami's skyline.
Departing from its longtime location, the family-run landmark establishment by Juvia Group, a hospitality collective spearheaded by restaurateurs Jonas and Alexandra Millán, has signed a lease to secure a space at the new project situated in the city's urban core.
With roots in Caracas, Venezuela, and more than 25 years of hospitality experience, the Millán family portfolio includes Sushi Garage in Miami Beach, Coconut Grove, and Las Olas; Sunny Poke in Miami Beach; and Bonito in St. Barth.
"From the outset, our vision for Juvia was to offer not just incredible gastronomical experiences, but also an ambiance that encapsulated the vibrancy and beauty of Miami," Jonas tells New Times. "The rooftop setting allowed our guests to dine under the Miami sky, offering unparalleled views of the city. This combination of ambiance and culinary focus has undoubtedly played a significant role in our sustained success for more than 11 years."
The restaurant's new location will be set on the 12th floor atop Miami Worldcenter's Block H development at 652 Northeast Second Avenue, a space that will also be home to retail brands like Sephora, Lululemon, and Ray-Ban, along with a 900-plus space public parking garage.
After a buildout and design process, Juvia Group anticipates opening at Miami Worldcenter by the end of 2024. As part of its aesthetic reimagining, the group has promised the establishment will retain its well-known ambiance, from the rooftop setting with views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay to its sprawling, eclectic menu.
Juvia Group has promised the new location will offer the same outdoor ambiance with its signature rooftop patio.
Juvia Group photo
While the essence of Juvia will remain, Jonas says guests can anticipate a refreshed ambiance and menu additions inspired by the new neighborhood.
"Miami's dining scene has undergone a remarkable transformation from a burgeoning culinary hub to a global gastronomic powerhouse," adds Jonas. "With this new iteration of Juvia, we aim to both celebrate this evolution and raise the bar once more to the future tapestry of Miami's dining experiences."
As one of the largest privately owned and developed urban real estate developments in Florida, Miami Worldcenter, which is currently coming alive in phases, features a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and hospitality uses complemented by a total of 300,000 square feet of retail, restaurant, and entertainment space. As of August 2023, approximately 90 percent of the development's retail space has been leased.
Adding Juvia to the Miami Worldcenter culinary roster builds on the development's already operating food and beverage offerings, including three concepts by Ariete Hospitality Group's chef Michael Beltran with Brasserie Laurel, Chug's Express, and El Vecino Cigar & Cocktail Bar. A permanent Miami Museum of Ice Cream is also slated to join the development.
Four additional restaurants are set to open in 2024, including Chicago’s Maple & Ash, Earl’s Kitchen & Bar, Sixty Vines, New York Italian staple Serafina, and an all-new two-in-one mashup between BurgerFi and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza.
"The Miami Worldcenter presented an irresistible opportunity. Its vision aligns perfectly with our vision for Juvia, offering a chance to breathe new life into our landmark concept," says Jonas, who adds leaving Lincoln Road is bittersweet. "Lincoln Road has been our home for over a decade. While the area remains vibrant, there have been shifts in foot traffic and the overall landscape over the years. This move is an exciting new chapter for Juvia."
