Q&A: From Tel Aviv to Miami with AVIV at 1 Hotel South Beach

Photography by Victor Jaramillo on March 14th, 2025 in Editorials

Miami Beach, FL – March 14, 2025 – AVIV, the newest culinary endeavor by celebrated Israeli-born chef Michael Solomonov and esteemed restaurateur Steve Cook, has opened its doors at 1 Hotel South Beach.

AVIV — meaning “Spring” in Hebrew — combines traditional cooking methods with the lively, contemporary vibes of Miami and Tel Aviv, AVIV delivers a dynamic dining experience. “AVIV embraces ancient Israeli cooking methods together with the one-of-a-kind modern energy of Miami and Tel Aviv,” Shares Chef Solomonov. “We’re really looking forward to the incredibly vibrant flavors of Israel shining in this atmosphere.”

Dishes feature the Yemenite flatbread Saluf that complements the ultra-creamy Hummus-Tehina, along with the Haloumi Baklava, Pompano with sea bean tzatziki, and Ribeye Shishlik with grilled tomato and sumac onions, amongst many other stellar additions.

The culinary venture marks Solomonov and Cook’s return to Miami, boasting a 132-seat space with an open kitchen, indoor and outdoor seating, and sleek midcentury modern decor. “The interior was entirely reimagined by Post Company along with the Starwood Hotels design team, with a focus on texture and materiality — The design features elements like coquina stone, zellige tile, and textured glass, creating a warm and sophisticated environment that reflects both Israeli heritage and Miami’s tropical flair,” Shares Solomonov.

Michael Solomonov

WRE: Tell us about the concept behind AVIV?

Michael Solomonov: AVIV will embrace ancient Israeli cooking methods together with the one-of-a-kind modern energy of Miami and Tel Aviv. We’re really looking forward to the incredibly vibrant flavors of Israel shining in this atmosphere.

WRE: We love the design, who did the interior and what is the motivation?

MS: The interior was entirely reimagined by Post Company along with the Starwood Hotels design team, with a focus on texture and materiality. The design features elements like coquina stone, zellige tile, and textured glass, creating a warm and sophisticated environment that reflects both Israeli heritage and Miami’s tropical flair.

WRE: What are some of the signature dishes? Signature cocktails?

MS: Our Yemenite flatbread Saluf is an anchor to go with our ultra-creamy Hummus-Tehina. We’re also doing dishes I love like Halloumi Baklava with quince and pistachio, Pompano with sea bean tzatziki, and Ribeye Shishlik with grilled tomato and sumac onions. The cocktail menu is super citrus-forward and punchy with drinks like the Zhoug, a zesty margarita, and the Black and White Cookie, a rich, dessert-inspired cocktail.

WRE: Does the climate of Tel Aviv and Miami affect locally grown produce and dishes on the menu?

MS: Absolutely. The synergy between Miami and Tel Aviv is a breath of fresh air.

Michael Solomonov

Michael Solomonov

The synergy between Miami and Tel Aviv is a breath of fresh air.

Michael Solomonov

WRE: Why did you choose Miami Beach and 1 Hotel to launch this concept?

MS: We had an incredible experience with the 1 Hotel team producing a 2019 Art Basel pop-up together and from there, we dreamt of becoming true partners – now, that dream has become reality. We are very fortunate.

WRE: What should guests expect and experience when going to the restaurant?

MS: We want guests to have an experience rooted in the fantastic flavors of Israeli cuisine, in an atmosphere that has this unique kind of elegance and tremendous warmth.