A New Era of Luxury: The Team Behind Villa Casuarina and V&E Hospitality Debuts Donatella Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

A New Era of Luxury: The Team Behind the famous Villa Casuarina and V&E Hospitality Debuts Donatella Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
Distinguished Sister Property to the Legendary Villa Casuarina Offers Luxury Escapes in Mediterranean Revival-Style Elegance

Miami Beach, FL (April 16, 2025) — A new chapter in Miami Beach’s history begins as Donatella Boutique Hotel and Donatella Restaurant prepare to open their doors May 2025. The sister property to the iconic Villa Casa Casuarina, Donatella Boutique Hotel & Restaurant channels the same timeless elegance and allure. This exciting project is brought to life by the esteemed Nakash Group, whose portfolio includes The Setai Miami Beach and the Villa, in partnership with Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group, South Florida’s premier hospitality group. As joint owners of both the hotel and the restaurant, these powerhouse teams have seamlessly combined their expertise to create a new gem in the heart of Miami Beach, blending luxury, history, and exceptional dining to offer an unforgettable experience.

A Historic Retreat Reimagined
Situated in the vibrant heart of Miami Beach’s iconic Art Deco district at 1350 Collins Ave, Donatella Boutique Hotel is a captivating boutique retreat that artfully blends historic charm with contemporary elegance. Originally designed by renowned architect Wallace Tutt in 1922—who is also famed for creating the iconic Versace Mansion—the property has been integral to South Beach’s evolution into a world-class destination. Acquired in 2022 by the Nakash family and Vida & Estilo Hospitality, the hotel has been meticulously restored to offer a boutique luxury experience.

With interiors by Mico Design Studio, Donatella Boutique Hotel features a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic that merges timeless coastal elegance with modern comforts. The six exquisitely furnished rooms showcase natural stone, warm wood, and gold accents, creating a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Custom lighting highlights natural materials, like stone headboards and luxe vanity areas, while thoughtful décor—locally inspired art and handcrafted decorative pieces—connects guests to Miami’s vibrant cultural heritage.

“With every property, from The Setai, Miami Beach to the Villa Casuarina, our mission has always been to create memorable experiences that reflect Miami’s unique character. The Donatella Boutique Hotel is the ideal sister property, with its Neo-Mediterranean elegance and storied heritage. We are excited to make Donatella Restaurant the heart of this new project, offering world-class Italian cuisine within this stunning space. Partnering with Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group, renowned for their exceptional restaurant portfolio, was key to bringing this vision to life. Together, we’re excited to create an exclusive boutique escape where guests can enjoy seamless luxury blending relaxation and sophistication.” – Joe Nakash, Chairman. The Setai Hotel

An Italian Culinary Experience

As part of the Donatella Boutique Hotel experience, the restaurant at Donatella will debut as a Coastal Southern Italian dining destination. Executive Chef Alessandro Morrone draws inspiration from his childhood in Napoli, where Neapolitan cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Chef Morrone’s dishes honor Italy’s culinary heritage through time-honored techniques and cherished family recipes. The menu features traditional dishes crafted from scratch using authentic ingredients and a rotating selection of seasonal produce. Signature highlights include Pólipo al InsalataCarpaccio Gambero RossoRigatoni NdujaBlack Truffle Cacio e PepeVeal Milanese and Skull Island Prawns. With seating for up to 170 guests and a private dining room accommodating 15, the signature restaurant offers an intimate and welcoming ambiance, promising an unforgettable dining experience that reflects the timeless charm of Italian cuisine.

Upon entering the restaurant at Donatella, guests are fully immersed in the Mediterranean-inspired ambiance, guided by strategic lighting and lush greenery that create a journey from the lobby to the dining area. The experience begins in a bar area that seamlessly connects to the hotel’s upper floors, reminiscent of a luxurious concierge desk. Moving into the main dining space, diners enjoy views into the open kitchen where culinary artistry unfolds. The design of Donatella combines raw natural textures, including stone and wood elements, with golden accents and mirrored ceilings, culminating in a VIP lounge that offers a personalized and visually captivating dining experience. A hand-painted wall mural by a local artist enhances the space, bringing an element of nature indoors and adding an artistic flair that complements the restaurant’s sophisticated yet warm aesthetic.

“Together with the Nakash Group, Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group is thrilled to bring a new concept to Miami Beach with the Donatella Boutique Hotel and Restaurant. Our approach at Donatella is unique: the restaurant will lead the guest experience, creating an ambiance that places exceptional dining at the heart of a boutique hotel stay. Inspired by the heart of Italy, the restaurant at Donatella combines old-world glamour with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, offering a holistic and shareable dining experience that appeals to today’s travelers and locals alike, especially young adults seeking memorable moments beyond just a meal.” –  Jamil Dib, Co-Founder and Owner of Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group

A Boutique Lifestyle

At Donatella Boutique Hotel, every aspect of the guest experience is meticulously curated for an unparalleled stay. Each of the six exclusive rooms includes dedicated concierge and butler service, ensuring personalized attention and seamless hospitality throughout the visit.

Guests can indulge in exquisite Southern Coastal Italian cuisine at the on-site restaurant, where a sophisticated ambiance complements the hotel’s serene atmosphere. Wellness offerings include signature massages, revitalizing facials, and spa treatments at a partner facility, along with access to a fully equipped fitness center. For outdoor relaxation, guests can enjoy exclusive beach access with luxurious daybeds, pristine white sands, and stunning turquoise waters, as well as premium services such as jet ski rentals. Guests will have access to private pool amenities at an exclusive partner location, offering the perfect blend of tranquility, adventure, and indulgence.

Donatella Boutique Hotel will begin accepting reservations for stays in May 2025. Reserve your stay or dining experience at donatellahotel.com or donatellarestaurant.com.

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About VIDA & ESTILO HOSPITALITY GROUP

Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group (VEGroup), translating to “Life and Style,” has been a leader in the hospitality industry since 1996. With a diverse portfolio of restaurants offering Cuban, Mexican, Italian, American, and Japanese cuisines, VEGroup is one of South Florida’s largest hospitality groups. Recognized among the top 25 most influential independent restaurant groups in America, VEHG operates about 30 dining establishments between Miami and Las Vegas, including full-service restaurants and Cuban Coffee Shops. Comprising industry professionals, VEGroup seamlessly combines traditional, lifestyle, and nightlife concepts to create unique and memorable dining experiences. With a proven track record of success, Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the US hospitality landscape.

Media Contact.
Elba Machado – VP Communications, Media & Government Relations
emachado@vehospitality.com

 

DISCLAIMER: Donatella Boutique Hotel & Restaurant is not affiliated with nor endorsed by Ms. Donatella Versace. 

Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group Returns for Fourth Consecutive Year at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix

Expanded Culinary & Cocktail Offerings at The Beach Grandstands Set to Elevate the Fan Experience

Miami, FL – April 16th, 2025Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group (VEGroup) proudly announces its return to the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix for the fourth consecutive year, taking place May 2–4, 2025. Known for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences, VEGroup is once again elevating the fan experience by taking over the food hall at The Beach Grandstands, one of the most iconic and high-energy zones of the Hard Rock Stadium.


photo credits: Carlos Goldman/F1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix

This year, VEGroup will showcase an expanded lineup of its most beloved restaurant concepts, including Havana 1957, Oh! Mexico, Café Americano, Cortadito Coffee House, and the return of Barsecco Bars, bringing signature cocktails and bold flavors directly to the heart of race weekend.

Culinary Highlights for 2025

  • Havana 1957 returns for its fourth year with signature Cuban sandwiches and hearty Cuban completas like ropa vieja, lechón asado, and vegetarian options.

It’s an incredible honor to represent Havana 1957 for the fourth year in a row at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix” said Javier Oquendo, General Manager of Havana 1957. “Each year, the energy, excitement, and attention to detail have grown—and so has our commitment to delivering an authentic Cuban culinary experience. Watching fans come back year after year for our Cuban sandwiches and completas is the most rewarding part. 2025 is shaping up to be our best year yet.”

  • Cortadito Coffee House, now in its second year, offers a full menu of iced & hot coffees alongside a growing gelato selection—with flavors ranging from chocolate to pistachio.
    New in 2025: a mobile coffee cart inside the Hard Rock Beach Club for added convenience.
  • Café Americano continues into its third year, bringing back fan-favorite smash burgers, Americano wings, and debuting a new truffled mushroom pizza.
  • Oh! Mexico, entering its second year, spices things up with a variety of nachos, burritos, and tacos in bold styles including al pastor, carne asada, and grilled chicken.
  • Barsecco Bars return for their second year at the food hall, serving up fan-favorite signature cocktails that bring the energy of the track to every sip:The Prancing Horse – a bold, rum-based mojito and high-octane classic
    Barsecco’s Racing Lane – a smooth, vodka-based refreshing mix
    Smooth Operator (Mocktail) – a vibrant non-alcoholic option crafted with agave nectar and fresh fruits.

We’re thrilled to bring our Barsecco bar experience trackside for the second year in a row,” said Reniel Garcia, Concept Director at Barsecco. “These cocktails were a hit last year, and we’re excited to bring them back—both at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix and for a limited-time run at our Brickell location to build momentum and flavor leading up to race weekend 2025.”

A Continued Collaboration Elevating the Culinary Experience at The Beach Grandstands.
Returning for a fourth consecutive year, Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group continues to raise the bar at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, delivering a curated lineup of culinary experiences that reflect the rich flavors of Miami.

Matias Pesce, CEO of Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group, shared: “We’re proud to be back, continuing to represent the flavors of Miami on one of the world’s biggest stages. The Beach Grandstands provide the ideal backdrop to bring fans closer to the action while they enjoy top-tier culinary experiences rooted in the city’s cultural vibrancy. Our ongoing collaboration with Sodexo Live! has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. The synergy between our teams allows us to continually elevate what hospitality means during race weekend.”

Guests with a General Admission Campus Pass will have access to The Beach Grandstands, where they can enjoy the full range of food and beverage offerings while soaking in the electric atmosphere of Formula 1.

Zachary Williams, Sodexo Live! General Manager at Hard Rock Stadium and Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix added: “We’re excited to welcome back Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group to the Miami Grand Prix. Their ability to blend flavor, culture, and creativity into every concept brings energy and authenticity to the fan experience. We’re thrilled to expand this collaboration in 2025 and deliver even more for our guests.”

Bringing the Flavors of Miami Trackside—One Bite at a Time.
As Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group continues to lead the way in hospitality and culinary innovation, its growing presence at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix underscores its dedication to creating unforgettable moments through food, flavor, and Miami-style flair.

From handcrafted tacos and café-style Cubanos to burgers, pizza, wings, burritos, gelato, and icy espresso blends, Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group is proud to serve fans a memorable taste of Miami—trackside.

For more information, visit: www.vehospitality.com

Get tickets: https://f1miamigp.com/tickets/grandstands/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=evergreen-25&utm_source=ve_group


photo credits: Carlos Goldman/F1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix

VE Photos / credits VEGroup:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/3w1hejlt367scpu5hxm79/AB8fnwARU39jC9I9rYN2F00?rlkey=9p8pg6yvuv0oaqzhikx1vqzom&st=abypifws&dl=0

 

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About VIDA & ESTILO HOSPITALITY GROUP

Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group (VEGroup), translating to “Life and Style,” has been a leader in the hospitality industry since 1996. With a diverse portfolio of restaurants offering Cuban, Mexican, Italian, American, and Japanese cuisines, VEGroup is one of South Florida’s largest hospitality groups. Recognized among the top 25 most influential independent restaurant groups in America, VEHG operates about 30 dining establishments between Miami and Las Vegas, including full-service restaurants and Cuban Coffee Shops. Comprising industry professionals, VEGroup seamlessly combines traditional, lifestyle, and nightlife concepts to create unique and memorable dining experiences. With a proven track record of success, Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the US hospitality landscape.

Media Contact.
Elba Machado – VP Communications, Media & Government Relations
emachado@vehospitality.com

About FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX

The FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX, established in 2022 on the FIA Formula 1 World Championship calendar, is the premier culmination of world-class racing, fan experience, entertainment and hospitality, located in Miami Gardens, Florida. The event is hosted by South Florida Motorsports (SFM), who was awarded Promoter of the Year by Formula 1 in 2025. The race was also recognized as Best New Event of 2022 by Sports Business Journal and was recently awarded the prestigious FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation rating for its overall sustainability and environmental management efforts. Now entering its fourth year, the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX is held at the Miami International Autodrome, a 19-turn, 3.36-mile track within the complex of Hard Rock Stadium, the home of the legendary Miami Dolphins NFL team.

In its third edition, the race boasted more than 275,000 attendees and a record-breaking average audience of 3.1 million viewers on ABC – a mark previously held by the inaugural FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX – making it the largest live US television audience on record for a Formula 1 race. The event has generated more than $1 billion in economic impact to South Florida over its three years. SFM and Formula 1 have also worked closely to engage with and support the local Miami Gardens community, providing thousands of tickets annually for residents, creating a STEM education program through MIA in Schools, offering event internships for local students and featuring several community-owned restaurants on Campus during race weekend each year.

For more information please visit: https://media.f1miamigp.com/


About Sodexo Live!

Sodexo Live! manages prestigious conventions, cultural, and sporting venues and major events all over the world. With 40,000 employees and 500 sites, Sodexo Live! offers clients a range of bespoke catering, sales, and event management services, helping to transform the consumer experience into unforgettable memories. Sodexo Live! commits to unlocking customers’ full potential while favoring local communities. Sodexo Live! contributes to the success of prestigious events such as Royal Ascot, the Tour de France, the Rugby World Cup and the Paris 2024 Games, and showcases exceptional venues such as the Eiffel Tower Restaurants, Bateaux Parisiens, Yachts de Paris, the Royal Academy of Arts in London, the Museo del Prado in Madrid, the Hard Rock Stadium, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.