Shahab Karmely Shares His Haute Secrets To Miami

A visionary who claimed sight on Miami River and is currently developing One River Point, Shahab Karmely fell in love with Miami after seeing the plans for Brickell City Centre. The Iranian native began his career in New York converting and redeveloping properties in the city and later founded his own company, KAR Properties—a real estate investment and development firm. KAR Properties has holdings in many areas of the globe such as the United States, Southeast Asia and Europe. With more than 28 years of real estate experience and background in fine arts, Karmely relies on his intuition when it comes to design and fine arts. Here, the innovator shares his “haute secrets” on the emerging and promising city, Miami.

Where were you born: Tehran

How long in Miami: Visiting since 1978

Neighborhood: Beach, Downtown and all around

Occupation: Real Estate Developer

Favorite Restaurant: Casa Tua

Best Italian: Casa Tua

Best Dessert: Casa Tua

Best place for a romantic date: Casa Tua

Best Sunday Brunch: Faena 

Best place for a power business meeting: Cipriani Downtown

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend: Faena

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Brickell City Centre

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: From my friendly dealer on 47th Street in NYC

Best Spa: Faena

Favorite Charity Event: Education (Success Academics), Armed Forces (Navy Seals Foundation) and animals- any charity that supports animals.

Favorite Cultural Event: Art Basel

Favorite Cultural Institution: The Met, NYC

Best Pizza: Seaspice

Best Lunch: Kiki On The River

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Body Tek Fitness in Wynwood

Best Limousine/ Driving Service: My driver

Best Museum/Exhibit: Vizcaya

Describe your city in three words: Beautiful; Exciting; Full of Promise

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Vizcaya

All-around favorite spot in Miami: Brickell City Centre

Best Aspect of Miami: The River