Miami’s luxury hospitality market just saw one of its biggest transactions of 2025. Robert Rivani’s Black Lion has officially closed a $38.25 million all-cash deal for two of the city’s most coveted restaurant spaces, further strengthening its position as a major force in South Florida real estate.
The trophy properties are located in SLS Lux Brickell and the newly rebranded Dua Miami Hotel (formerly SLS Brickell). The deal underscores Black Lion’s sharp eye for high-value assets and marks yet another win for Rivani’s growing hospitality empire.
From Pandemic Vacancies to High-Profile Destinations
The latest sale follows Black Lion’s headline-making $28.2 million transaction for CATCH Miami Beach earlier this year. Together, these moves reflect a bold post-pandemic strategy that has consistently paid off.
“This is exactly what I envisioned when I made my first move into the Miami market,” said Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion. “Back when the world hit pause and restaurants were sitting empty during the pandemic, I doubled down because I knew Miami wasn’t just going to bounce back—it was going to boom.”
That vision is now reality. Black Lion’s transformation of once-vacant restaurant spaces into top-tier dining destinations helped fuel the city’s hospitality resurgence.
A Closer Look at the Properties
The restaurant space at SLS Lux Brickell, located at 8 SE 8th Street, remains leased to GEKKŌ—a high-end, Japanese-inspired steakhouse known for its star-studded clientele and sleek design. The property includes 8,000 square feet of interior space and an expansive 3,000-square-foot outdoor dining area.
Nearby, the space at Dua Miami Hotel at 1300 S. Miami Ave is home to RosaNegra Miami, a bold Latin American concept known for its vibrant atmosphere and upscale crowd. The location offers 9,000 square feet indoors and 4,600 square feet of outdoor space, making it one of Brickell’s most desirable restaurant addresses.
Originally acquired for $23.3 million combined, the sale reflects a significant return and confirms the market value of Black Lion’s real estate strategy.
Agents Behind the Deal
The transaction was brokered by top names in the commercial space. Fabio and Sebastian Faerman of FA Commercial represented Black Lion, while the buyer was represented by Kevin Waissmann of Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate.
Their involvement ensured a smooth, high-stakes negotiation that concluded in an all-cash deal—further emphasizing the desirability of the assets.
Black Lion’s Expanding Footprint in South Florida
Over the past few years, Rivani has quietly built a $100+ million portfolio across South Florida. Beyond these recent sales, Black Lion still holds interests in several high-profile properties including:
- Amara at Paraiso
- The upcoming GAIA
- The commercial space at One Ocean
- The fully leased Wynwood Jungle
These properties house some of the city’s most buzzworthy tenants, positioning Black Lion as a key player in Miami’s luxury commercial real estate scene.
Looking Ahead: The Rivani
The next chapter for Black Lion is even more ambitious. The Rivani, a 160,000-square-foot Class X office development at 1691 Michigan Avenue, will blend luxury lifestyle elements with high-end business amenities.
Designed as a next-generation workplace, the project will feature:
- A concierge service
- Full spa and fitness center
- A meditation room and salon
- A signature Japanese restaurant and hidden speakeasy
This bold move into luxury office space redefines what commercial buildings can offer—and positions Rivani at the forefront of innovation.
Robert Rivani’s latest deal isn’t just a real estate transaction. It’s a milestone in Miami’s ongoing transformation into a global hub for luxury hospitality and lifestyle. With each move, Black Lion proves that it isn’t just riding the wave—it’s helping shape the tide.
