Mayi De La Vega Shares Her Haute Secrets to Miami

Mayi De La Vega has become a cemented real estate professional in the luxury market. She began her real estate career 25 years ago at a boutique residential brokerage firm in Miami. De La Vega then went on to open her own local office called ONE Sotheby’s International Realty in 2008. De La Vega has formed partnerships with the Sotheby’s brand in various countries in South America like Brazil and Argentina along with countries in Europe like Russia. Here, the real estate mogul shares her insider’s guide—her “haute secrets”—to the Magic City.

Where were you born: Cuba

How long in Miami:  Basically my entire life

Neighborhood: Coral Gables, currently Miami Beach

Occupation: CEO/Founder of ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

Favorite Restaurant: Il Gabbiano

Best Sushi: Zuma

Best Italian: Il Gabbiano

Best dessert: My sisters flan (yummmm)

Best place for a romantic date: On my boat watching the sunset set behind the Miami skyline

Best Sunday brunch: Soho House

Best place for a power business meeting: Milos

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? The Miami Beach EDITION

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Bal Harbour Shops

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Gables Gems

Best Spa: Mandarin Oriental

Favorite Charity Event: All fundraisers and charity events hosted by United Way of Miami-Dade

Favorite Cultural Event: Art Basel

Favorite Cultural Institution: PAMM (Pérez Art Museum Miami)

Best Steakhouse: RED

Best Pizza: Lucali

Best Lunch: Cipriani

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Flywheel

Best Massage: Fisher Island Club Spa

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Jose ;)/ UberLux

Best Museum/Exhibit: Julio le Parc at PAMM

Describe your city in three words: Global, thriving and culturally diverse

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Fairchild Tropical Gardens

All-around favorite spot in Miami:  Fisher Island Club

Best Aspect of Miami: The W