It Takes a Village
Urban Center Propels New Brickell Lifestyle
Since the time William and Mary Brickell named a tree-lined thoroughfare after their homestead, Brickell Avenue has been associated with wealth and prestige that is defined by luxurious high-rise condominiums and a financial corridor featuring more than 120 domestic and international banks. Today, another key element in this urban evolution emerges as Mary Brickell Village nears completion.
Stretching two blocks west of Brickell Avenue between Southwest 9th and 10th Streets, Mary Brickell Village amasses nearly 200,000 square-feet of retail space comprised of upscale restaurants, boutiques and everyday services. There is also an 800 space parking garage.
Yet, even with its spatial grandness, this lifestyle center is reminiscent of an intimate Mediterranean village with two public plazas surrounded by lush vegetation and mature oak and mahogany trees.
Retailers include Grimpa Brazilian Steakhouse, a modern Churrasco-style restaurant boasting the largest private reception room in Miami with over 200 seats on its second floor; Oceanaire Seafood Room known for its fresh seafood selections, an oyster bar and an oversized daily printed menu; and PF Chang’s China Bistro, which quickly has become one of the chain’s busiest locations.
“The Village features quality restaurants of varied ethnic backgrounds and price points with the convenience of ample parking,” says Marcos Freire, general manager. “I believe that Mary Brickell Village will become the number-one dining destination in Miami.”
The impressive roster of restaurants is enhanced with the opening of Rosa Mexicano, the authentic Mexican restaurant made popular in New York City, and Blue Martini, a popular lounge that includes live music and an outdoor patio bar. Abokado Sushi, Kuva Cuban Cuisine, Trattoria Blu will follow in October along with a bevy of retailers including Sowinski Jewelers, Edward Beiner Eyewear, and Studio LX, a high-end women’s boutique. A major supermarket and health club could also be announced shortly, according to Freire.
One of Freire’s objectives is to maintain throughout the day the same high visitor counts experienced during the lunch hour. “We expect many people to visit The Village after work, or even return to the Brickell area later in the evening,” says Freire. “Our customer profile is mature in their tastes and appreciates the sophisticated environment The Village presents.”
Further evening activity is expected with “Brickell Nights,” a live outdoor music series that will begin this fall.
