SLS Brickell to Open October 2016 with Michael Schwartz, José Andrés Concepts

Three years after the initial announcement, SLS Brickell (1300 S. Miami Ave., Miami) has finally confirmed Jose Andres and Michael Schwartz's restaurant concepts at the new property, set to open this October. Though an exact opening date yet to be announced, the property's online reservations system is accepting reservations beginning October 3 at a starting rate of $249 per night for a king room. A 1,764-square-foot, two-bedroom Louie Suite is a splurge at $1,950 per night. 

Michael Schwartz will launch an entirely new concept in his portfolio of eateries. Fi'lia, an Italian restaurant, will follow the James Beard Award winner's philosophy of simple and honest cooking by offering handmade artisanal breads, pizzas, and pastas. Fi'lia, whose name is Italian for "daughter," will also offer old-school caesar salads tossed tableside with shaved Parmesan and garlic croutons — prepared in the manner of classic New York eateries. Says Schwartz of his project: "It’s exciting to enter a new, nearby neighborhood exploring the style of food that has been a great influence in my cooking since I first entered a restaurant kitchen 30 years ago."  

Meals at Fi'lia will be complemented by a selection of Italian-inspired cocktails featuring refreshing spritzes and a wine list focused on Italian and American selections. Fi'lia will be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner when the property opens. 
José Andrés will expand his Bazaar concept to Miami's mainland with Bazaar Mar. Andrés opened the Bazaar by José Andrés at the SLS South Beach in June 2012 to a flood of culinary acclaim. This time, the chef turns to the waters of Florida and the Caribbean for inspiration. Menu items will include sea snacks of various ceviches, seaweeds, and tiraditos — all with Andrés' whimsical touch.

A raw bar will offer local lobster and stone crabs in season, and whole fish will be prepared in a Josper grill, which will also be the dining room's focal point. Andrés will also include dishes from his native Spain and favorites from the menu at the Bazaar by José Andrés. Alongside cocktails, the restaurant's wine list will specialize in offerings from Spain. Bazaar Mar is scheduled to open a few weeks after Fi'lia; an exact date has not yet been announced. Says Andrés: "I love Miami – the people, the food, the energy – this city is amazing! I’m thrilled to be bringing a second Bazaar with a focus on seafood to this incredible city that has given me so much.”

In addition to heading Bazaar Mar, Chef Andrés will also be in charge of all food and beverage operations for the property's in-room dining, mezzanine, and pool bar. 

The SLS Lux, an adjacent tower project of 450 luxury condominiums, will house Katsuya and SBar, according to its website. The 58-story tower, designed by architecture firm Arquitectonica, features a LED façade by lighting artist Ana Isabel Martinez, artwork by Fernando Botero and Matias Duville, and an exterior art mural.