C7T -Hire Broker To Analyze City-Owned Retail Space At 1661 Pennsylvania Avenuelntended Outcome
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COMMISSION ITEM SUMMARY
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Condensed Title:
A Resolution Accepting Recommendations Of The Finance And Citywide Projects Committee With Respect
To Hiring A Commercial Real Estate Broker To Analyze The City-Owned Retail Space Located At 1661
Pennsylvania Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139, Which ls The Subject Of A Lease (Lease) Between The
Miami Beach RedevelopmentAgency (RDA) And The City (Collectively, Lessor) And Penn 17, LLC (Lessee);
And Requiring Lessee To Retroactively Pay lnterim Base Rent, ln The Amount Of $24,474.00, Plus Common
Area Maintenance (CAM) As Required Under The Lease, All With Applicable Sales Tax, Effective July 1,
2014, Pending Receipt Of The Analysis And Completion Of Negotiations; And Further Providing That lf Lessee
Fails To Pay Said lnterim Base Rent And CAM, Lessee Shall Be Considered ln Default Under The Lease.
N/A
Supporting Data (Surveys, Environmental Scan, etc.) N/A
Item Summary/Recommendation :
On April 13,2011, the Mayor and City Commission approved a Lease Agreement (which was subsequently
amended on February 8, 2012, and again on June 6, 2012), having a term of nine (9) years and 364 days,
between the City, the RDA (collectively, the Lessor or Landlord) and Penn 17, LLC. (Lessee orTenant), for
use of approximately 7,655 square feet of ground level retail space at the Pennsylvania Avenue Garage, 1661
Pennsylvania Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida (Premises), for a restaurant (primary use). On December 17,
2012,the Tenant informed staff that it had closed CooperAvenue Restaurant, with the intent of re-opening in
February 2013 under a new name and concept. On June 5, 2013, the Mayor and City Commission approved
and authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to execute Amendment No. 3 to the Lease Agreement which
approved the transfer of 100% controlling ownership interest in Penn 17, LLC from the current
managers/members, Amir Ben-Zion and Ramon Cherstvov (transferors), to the proposed purchasers of Penn
17, LLC, Roman Cherstvov and OBK Project LLC (Transferees); with approval of such transfer subject to and
contingent upon the parties' execution of Amendment No. 3 to the Lease, and further satisfaction by
Transferees of numerous conditions, which were all satisfied.
Since the June 5, 2013 action by the City Commission, Penn 17 completed plans for the new restaurant,
obtained permits, commenced and completed interior renovations and finalized the restaurant concept. The
restaurant named Oolite, opened on June 15th,2014 and is open daily for lunch and dinner service. During the
July 30th, 2014 Commission meeting Steve Polisar, representing Ooiite Restaurant, explained that the tenant
has made a large financial commitment to have professional management, but they believe the rent is too
high. The City has amended the Tenant's current lease agreement on three separate occasions withiry the first
four (4) years of the lease term; however, the Tenant continues to solicit the City's assistance in meeting their
financial obligations under the lease agreement.
The Administration recommends the City Commission adopt the attached Resolution as recommended by the
Finance and Citvwi ects Committee.
Advisory Board Recommendation:
The Finance and Citywide Projects Committee met on September 24, 2014 and recommended the
Administration hire a commercial real estate broker to analyze the retail space located at the City owned
property at 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 and require the Lessee to retroactively
pay interim base rent, in the amountof $24,474.00, plus common area maintenance (CAM) as required under
the Lease, allwith applicable sales tax, effective July 1,2014, pending receiptof the analysis and completion
ofn
Financial lnformation :
Financial Impact Summary: Under the Tenant proposed rent schedule, the City is positioned to realize a
total loss of $687,816.05, as detailed in the attached memorandum.
Max Sklar, ext. 6116
E MIAMIBEACH AGENDA
204
g MIAMIBEACH
Cliy of Mloml Beoch, ,l700 Convention Cenler Drive, Miomi Beoch, Florido 33.l39, www.miomibeochfl.gov
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
TO:Mayor Philip Levine and Members of City
FROM: Jimmy L. Morales, City Manager
DATE: October 22,2014
SUBJECT A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
BEACH, FLORIDA, ACGEPTING RECOMMENDATION OF THE FINANGE AND
CITYWIDE PROJECTS GOMMITTEE RESPECT TO HlRlNG A COMMERCIAL
REAL ESTATE BROKER TO ANALYZE THE CIW.OWNED RETAIL SPACE
LOCATED AT 1661 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA 33139,
WHICH !S THE SUBJECT OF A LEASE (LEASE) BETWEEN THE MIAMI BEAGH
REDEVELOPMENT AGENGY (RDA) AND THE CITY (GOLLECTTVELY, LESSOR)
AND PENN 17, LLG (LESSEE); AND REQUIRING LESSEE TO RETROACTIVELY
PAY INTERIM BASE RENT, IN THE AMOUNT OF $24,474.00, PLUS COMMON
AREA MAINTENANCE (CAM) AS REQUIRED UNDER THE LEASE, ALL WITH
APPLICABLE SALES TAX, EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2014, PENDING RECEIPT OF THE
ANALYSIS AND COMPLETION OF NEGOTIATIONS; AND FURTHER PROVIDING
THAT IF LESSEE FAILS TO PAY SAID INTERIM BASE RENT AND CAM, TENANT
SHALL BE CONSIDERED !N DEFAULT UNDER THE LEASE.
BACKGROUND
On April 13, 2011, the Mayor and City Commission approved a Lease Agreement (which was
subsequentlyamended on February8,2012, and again on June 6,2012), having aterm of nine
(9) years and 364 days, between the City, the RDA (collectively, the Lessor or Landlord) and
Penn 17, LLC. (Lessee or Tenant), for use of approximately 7,655 square feet of ground level
retail space at the Pennsylvania Avenue Garage, 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue, Miami Beach,
Florida (Premises), for a restaurant (primary use), with ancillary uses for a bakery, a bar/cafe,
and a book and gift shop (the initial lease and all amendments thereto are hereinafter referred to
as the Lease). The Tenant opened Cooper Avenue Restaurant on the Premises on September
24, 2012. After putting the Tenant on notice of certain compliance-related issues, including
nonpayment of rent, the City received a letter in response to its November 15,2012letter from
Tenant's legal counsel requesting rent relief in connection with operational complications
resulting from the failure of the air conditioning system on the Premises. The Tenant alleged
that the current location of the air conditioning compressors, located between the first and
second floor of the garage alongside the entrance ramp, was inadequate to support the size
units required to cool a restaurant operation of the scale involved in Cooper Avenue. As a
solution, Tenant requested permission to relocate all eight compressors to the roof of the
garage, (which relocation, if accomplished, will occupy five roof-top parking spaces).
On December 12,2012, the City Commission referred the Tenant's request for rent relief to the
City's Finance and Citywide Projects Committee (FCWPC) for discussion, subject to the Tenant
remitting all outstanding rent amounts due for October, November and December. Subsequent
205
Commission Memorandum
October 22,2014
Accepting Finance and Citywide Projecb Commiltee Recommendation
Penn 17, LLC
Page 2 of 6
to the City Commission meeting, the Tenant informed staff that it wasn't in a position to remit
rent for the three-month period, and instead remitted a wire transfer for the October, 2012 rent.
On December 17, 2012, the Tenant informed staff that it had closed Cooper Avenue
Restaurant, with the intent of re-opening in February 2013 under a new name and concept. The
Administration requested review of the matter by the FCWPC at its December 2012 meeting, at
which Tenant presented its request to reduce its rent payments by 50o/o over the next twelve
(12) months; apply two months of the three-month security deposit it had paid at Lease
execution towards the back rent due for November and December's rent; and have the City
share in the cost of relocating the compressors to the roof of the garage, the cost of which was
estimated to be approximately $65,000. The Tenant also indicated that it would prefer to
address the relocation of the compressors as well as the kitchen exhaust venting (as was
requested by the New World Symphony) at the same time and under one engineering contract.
On June 5,2013, the Mayor and City Commission approved and authorized the Mayor and City
Clerk to execute Amendment No. 3 to the Lease Agreement which approved the transfer of
100o/o controlling ownership interest in Penn 17, LLC from the current managers/members, Amir
Ben-Zion and Ramon Cherstvov (transferors), to the proposed purchasers of Penn 17, LLC,
Roman Cherstvov and OBK Project LLC (Transferees); with approval of such transfer subject to
and contingent upon the parties' execution of Amendment No. 3 to the Lease, and further
satisfaction by Transferees of the following conditions (to be satisfied prior to and as a condition
of Landlord's execution of Amendment No. 3:
1) Payment of outstanding rent for the months of May and June, 2013;
2) Satisfaction of any and all liens against the Leased Premises including, without limitation,
liens and/or claims filed by A & P Air Conditioning and Cors-Air;
3) Dismissal, with prejudice, of the lawsuit filed by A & P against the City to collect the
A & P lien;
4) Re-payment of the remaining balance of Rent and CAM for November and December 2012,
in the amount of $120,519.98, from the Security Deposit, and replenishing said disbursement
over a period of six (6) months, commencing on October 1, 2013, and ending March 1 , 2014;
5) Replacement of the required $50,000 minimum balance into the Tenant construction fund;
6) Re-location at Transferees' sole cost, of the Leased Premises a/c units to the roof of the
Pennsylvania Garage; and
7) Execution of a General unconditional release in favor of the City and RDA; and further waive,
by a 5/7ths vote, the formal competitive bidding requirements, finding such waiver to be in the
best interest of the City, and authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to negotiate and
execute an agreement with Halloran Construction, lnc., in an amount not to exceed $250,000, to
address the relocation of the kitchen exhaust venting system installed by Penn 17,lLC.
Since the June 5,2013 action by the City Commission, Penn 17 completed plans for the new
restaurant, obtained permits, commenced and completed interior renovations and finalized the
restaurant concept. The restaurant named Oolite, opened on June 15th, 2014 and is open daily
for lunch and dinner service.
We ore commilled to providine excellent public servrce ond sofe\ to oll who tive work ond pkty rn our vibrant. tropicol. hislaric communif/.
206
Commission Memorandum
October 22,2014
Accepting Finance and Citywide Projects Committee Recommendation
Penn 17, LLC
Page 3 of 6
During the July 30th, 2014 Commission meeting Steve Polisar, representing Oolite Restaurant,
explained that the tenant has made a large financial commitment to have professional
management, but they believe the rent is too high and they cannot afford it. Mr. Polisar stated
that Oolite has approximately 7,800 square feet of space and are paying $65,000 a month in
rent.
Ultimately the City Commission passed a motion to:
1) Authorize the Administration to have discretion to negotiate, including abatement of the rent;
2) Refer the item to the September Finance and Citywide Projects Committee meeting, and
3) Bring back for final approval at the October 22,2014 Commission Meeting;
City staff has been meeting with the principles and respective counsel of Oolite to discuss their
proposal for rent reduction terms and amendment to the existing lease agreement. The
Administration also requested current financials and the current plans in place to generate
future revenues.
Roman Cherstvov, MGRM of Oolite, provided the firm's most recent P & L statements. Mr. Kris
Wessel elaborated on future marketing campaigns and the hiring of the marketing firm
Powerhaus. Please refer to the attached documents, which were provided by Oolite.
ANALYSIS
ln preparation of the September 2014 Finance and Citywide Projects Committee meeting, the
Tenant submitted a letter requesting a two-year rent reduction plan; a copy of which is attached
as Exhibit "A" to this memorandum.
To summarize, the Tenant is proposing a monthly MG rent in the amount of $16,000.00 per
month for a term of two years, beginning October 2014 through September 2017. ln addition,
payment of monthly CAM expenses in the amount of $8,474.00.
ln addition, the Tenant is proposing a PG of 8% to be calculated on the sum of monthly
revenues greater than $200,000.00.
The Tenant provided a schedule of revenue projections (see attached Exhibit '8") for the
following terms:
October 2014 through September 2015
October 2015 through September 2016
Forthe term2O14l2015 Oolite's projected gross revenue is $3,910,000.00, thus, the annual rent
expense would equal $416.888.00. This sum would include monthly MG rent of $16,000, PG of
8% on the sum of gross revenues greater than $200,000.00, and monthly CAM expense of
$8,474.00.
We orc commilted to providing excellent public servtce ond sofety lo oll who live work ond ploy in our vibronl. tropicol hisforic communily
207
Commission Memorandum
October 22, 2014
Accepting Finance and Cityaide Projects Committee Recommendation
Penn 17, LLC
Page 4 of 6
For the term 201 512016 Oolite's projected gross revenue is $4,692,000.00, thus, the annual rent
expense would equal $477.048.00. This sum would include monthly MG rent of $16,000, PG of
8%o on the sum of gross revenues greater than $200,000.00, and monthly CAM expense of
$8,474.00.
The Tenant has also requested that the rent be abated for the months of October and
November 2014.
Current Gonditions
Base Rent for vears 1-2= $75 PSF, ($574,125.00) annual minimum, ($47,844.00 + tax
$3,349.08= $51,193.08) monthly minimum; 3o/o annual escalation of Minimum Rent,
commencing year 3.
. Monthly MG rent of $47,844.00o Monthly CAM payment of $8474.00
CAM for vears 1-2= $101,690.00 annually; $8,474.00 monthly; Cam adjusts starting year 3
based upon actual property taxes and estimated self-insurance amounts by City, adjustable on
yearly basis.
Annual Percentaqe Rent:
Sales in excess of $8,000,000 or 3o/o of gross sales if sales exceeds $9,000,000. Payable w/l
60 days from end of year
Property Taxes/lnsurance: Landlord pays and pass-through to Tenant as CAM
Comprehensive General Liability ($1,000,000).
Finance Summarv
The financial impact on the City as a result of the proposed rent reduction schedule would be as
follows:
ilErno
Qttnent Annual lvlG
?t6posed
Annrral i/l(l Bacr
Ilet Loss/GainBase Rent Rent
$574,128.00 $192,000.00 ($382,128.00)
(1) Repayrnent of &ry 20t2 df, Aqgust 2012 Reil
($95,688.00) perArnend. M. 2, p"iO yearc &5 ($39,870.00)
Tenant&tearages - (July, A.rgust and Septnber 2014 rent)($170,130.06)
October and l,locmber 2014 Proposed Rent Abaternent ($e5,688.00)
I@l I,tEt Loss to the City ($687,816.06)
Under the Tenant's proposal, the City's MG is equal to $16,000.00 monthly, $192,000.00
annually, and a MG PSF rate of $25.08 versus the current MG rental rate of $47,844.00
monthly, $574,128.00 annually, and MG PSF of $75.00.
We ore comnilled to providing excellent public servrce ond so[e\ lo oi! who live work. ond ploy in our vibranl tropicol, hisforic communify
208
Commission Memorandum
October 22, 2014
Accepting Finance and Citywide Projects Committee Recommendation
Penn 17, LLC
Page 5 of 6
Both the 201412015 and 201512016 proposed annual rent expense amounts of $416,888.00 and
$477,048.00, respectively, are inclusive of monthly projected revenues that, at certain periods,
are forecasted to exceed the monthly PG threshold of $200,000.00 (See Exhibit "B"). The
aforementioned proposed rent payments are only estimates of what the Tenant is forecasting in
the way of revenue, thus, the City may only realize rent expense payments equal to the MG of
$16,000.00 monthly.
As of October 1,2013, the Tenantwould be entering yeat 4 of the lease agreement, thus, the
balance of the repayment of July 2012 and August 2012 rent, per Amend No. 2, of $95,688.00,
scheduled to be repaid in years 4 and 5 of the lease agreement, would remain partially unpaid,
with current balance due of $39,870.00. This is due to the current Tenant rent arrears in the
amount of $170,130.06 for rent expense payments due for the months of July, August, and
September 2014.
ln addition, the Tenant is requesting a rent abatement for the rent expenses due for the months
of October and November, 2014, which sum represents a loss to the City in the amount of
$95,688.00.
ln conclusion, under the Tenant proposed rent schedule, the City is positioned to realize a
possible total loss of $687,816.05, as reflected above.
Prior to, and as a condition to, approving the Tenant's request for rent relief regarding the retail
space at the Pennsylvania Avenue Parking Garage, the Committee (FCWPC) should consider
the following:
. Requiring rent securitization in the form of either a personal guaranty, or bank letter of credit.
o Consider the potential overall loss to the City, under the Tenant proposed rent relief
schedule, versus the losses realized by initiating default proceedings under the lease
agreement, re-marketing and awarding of tenant improvement credits that may be required
to secure new viable tenants.
o Consider the implications for the City with regard to other existing tenants currently
experiencing similar financial difficulties that have been currently placed in default of their
lease agreement for non-payment of rent expense.
. Consider that comparable rental space located at 1000 17th Street, Miami Beach, Florida
33139 is currently listed at $50.00 - $85.00 PSF. Operating expenses are in addition to the
aforementioned PSF rates.
The City has amended the Tenant's current lease agreement on three separate occasions
within the first four (4) years of the lease term; however, the Tenant continues to solicit the
City's assistance in meeting their financial obligations under the lease agreement.
ln contrast, it appears that the Tenant is implementing and executing viable marketing initiatives
to facilitate the overall groMh and success of the business (See Attached Exhibit "C").
We ore commilled to providing excellent public seruce ond sofe\ lo oll who live work ond ploy in our vibranl tropicol historic cammunif,/
209
Commission Memorandum
October 22, 2014
Accepting Finance and Citywide Projects Commiltee Recommendation
Penn 17, LLC
Page 6 of 6
FINANCE AND CITYWIDE PROJECTS GOMMITTEE
The Finance and Citywide Projects Committee met on September 24, 2014 and discuss the
subject item. The Committee recommended the Administration hire a commercial real estate
broker to analyze the retail space located at the City owned property at 1661 Pennsylvania
Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139. Pending receipt of the analysis and completion of
negotiations, requiring lessee to retroactively pay interim base rent, in the amount of
$24,474.00, plus common area maintenance (CAM) as required under the lease, all with
applicable sales tax, effective July 1 ,2014,
CONCLUS!ON
The Administration recommends the City Commission adopt the attached Resolution as
recommended by the Finance and Citywide Projects Committee./t(J, AU//'ll ,"' I Il t-l
J L M / Kf, BI [/IIA$?,IIU C F
r: raC e r.rdnrlqrXOabo"rtrCe ouccpt FCWPC Recomm pe n n 1 7 MEMO. d ocx
Exhibits:
A - Rent Reduction Plan Request Letter
B - Oolite (Tenant) 201412015 -201512016 Revenue Forecast
C - Oolite (Tenant) Marketing Plan lnitiatives
We ore commilled to providing excellent public service ond sofe\ lo oll who live work ond ploy n our vibronf . fropicol, historic cammunity
210
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY GOMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI
BEACH, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE FINANCE AND
GITYWIDE PROJECTS COMMITTEE WITH RESPECT TO HIRING A COMMERCIAL
REAL ESTATE BROKER TO ANALYZETHE CITY.OWNED RETAIL SPACE LOCATED
AT 1661 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA 33139, WHICH IS THE
SUBJECT OF A LEASE (LEASE) BETWEEN THE MIAM! BEACH REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (RDA) AND THE CITY (COLLECT|VELY, LESSOR) AND PENN 17, LLC
(LESSEE); AND REQUIRING LESSEE TO RETROACTIVELY PAY INTERIM BASE RENT,
lN THE AMOUNT OF $24,474.00, PLUS GOMMON AREA MATNTENANCE (CAM) AS
REQUIRED UNDER THE LEASE, ALL WITH APPLICABLE SALES TAX, EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2014, PENDING RECEIPT OF THE ANALYSIS AND COMPLETION OF
NEGOTIATIONS; AND FURTHER PROVIDING THAT IF LESSEE FAILS TO PAY SAID
INTERIM BASE RENT AND CAM, TENANT SHALL BE CONSIDERED IN DEFAULT
UNDER THE LEASE.
WHEREAS, on April 13,2011, the Mayor and City Commission adopted Resolution No.
2011-27647, approving a Lease Agreement (the "Lease"), between the City, the RDA (collectively,
Lessor) and Penn 17 LLC. (Lessee), having a term of nine (9) years and 364 days, for use of
approximately 7 ,807 square feet of ground level retail space at the Pennsylvania Avenue Garage,
1661 Pennsylvania Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, for a restaurant (primary use) known as the
Cooper Avenue Restaurant, with ancillary uses for a bakery, abarlcaf6, and a book and gift shop
(the "Premises"); and
WHEREAS, on February 8,2012, the Mayor and City Commission adopted Resolution No.
2012- 27844, approving a First Amendment to the Lease, correcting the gross rentable retail space
from7,807 square feet to 7,655 square feet, as well as providing for a corresponding reduction in
annual Base Rentfrom $585,525 to $574,125, and the cost of Common Area Maintenance (CAM),
from $100,370 per year to $98,850 per year; and
WHEREAS, on June 6,2012, the Mayorand City Commission adopted Resolution No.2012-
27925, approving a Second Amendment to the Lease; 1) granting the Lessee a one (1) month
abatement of Base Rent and deferring an additional two (2) months' of Base Rent to be paid by the
Lessee in lump sum or in thirty six (36) equal monthly installments togetherwith regular payments of
rent, taxes and Common Area Maintenance (CAM), commencing in the third year of the Lease Term
and ending on the last day of the fifth year of the Lease Term; 2) increasing the size of the Lessee's
Additional Area (Storage Space), as defined in section 3.1 1 of the Lease, to include an additional
284 square feet, currently designated for storage of the building's flood panels; 3) increasing the
charge for Common Area Maintenance (CAM) from $98,850 per year to $101,690 to reflect the
increase in size of the AdditionalArea; and 4) constructing, at the Lessee's sole cost and expense,
a new replacement enclosure for the storage of flood panels, subject and pursuant to the
satisfaction and approval of the Lessor; and
WHEREAS, the Leased Premises, which housed the CooperAvenue Restaurant, closed on
December 17, 2012 and thereafter Lessee requested rent relief in connection with certain
operational complications resulting from the failure of its air conditioning system and the complaints
from the NewWorld Symphony (NWS) thatthe odors eminating from the Premises'kitchen exhaust
system, which at the time was channeled in the direction of the NWS, was interfering with the NWS'
use of their space; and
WHEREAS, following Tenant's request for a rent reduction and other relief, on December
20, 2012 and January 24, 2013, the City's Finance & Citywide Projects Committee (FCWPC)
expressed support for providing some level of relief to the Tenant, subject to the inclusion of specific
release language absolving the City of any liability regarding Tenant's cost overruns and claims
related to loss of business, and therefore recommended in favor of the following terms: 1) applying
one{hird (1/3) of the Tenant's existing Security Deposit, representing$47,844, towards Base Rent
211
owed for the month of November,2012; 2) deferuing $8,474 for Common Area Maintenance (CAM)
forNovember,2Ol2,and BaseRent, plusCAM,forDecember2012, inthe totalamountof $64,792
(Back-Due Rent); 3) approving an abatement of 50% of the Base Rent and Common Area
Maintenance (CAM) due forthe six (6) month period commencing January 13,2013 through July 12,
2013;4) deferring fifty percent (50%) of the Base Rent and CAM for the six (6) month period,
commencing July 13,2013 through January 14,2014 ("Deferral Period"), to be repaid bythe Tenant
in twenty four (24) equal monthly installments, commencing in the sixth year of the Lease Term and
ending on the last day of the seventh year of the Lease Term; and 5) providing for re-payment by
Tenant of the one-third security deposit in the amount of $47,844 and re-payment of the Back-Due
Rent for November and December,2012, in the amount of $64,791, to be repaid in twelve (12)
equal monthly installments commencing in the fifth year of the Lease Term and ending on the last
day of the fifth year of the Lease Term.
WHEREAS, on March 13,2013, Mayor and City Commission adopted Resolution No. 20'13-
28167 (in conjunction with RDA Resolution No. 592-2013), accepting the FCWPC's
recommendation, and approving, in concept, the proposed terms for an Amendment No. 3 to the
Lease, which amendment, upon future final approval by the City/RDA, would include a limited rent
reduction and deferral plan, a general release from Tenant, as well as the re-branding of the
Premises, to include an entertainment component (i.e. Tenant contemplated using part of the
Premises as a lounge, featuring a combination of a deejay and live music); and
WHEREAS, thereafter, Tenant failed to adequately resolve the following outstanding Lease
issues: 1) Tenant failed to satisfy and/or othenryise resolve two (2) liens that had been placed on the
Premises (one of these liens resulting in the filing of a lawsuit against the City to reclaim the unpaid
monies); and 2) Tenant breached the Work Letter and Escrow Agreement by failing to maintain its
required minimum $50,000 Construction Deposit in the Lease Construction Fund; and (3) failed to
pay the May and June, 2013 rent; and (4) Tenant's managing member, Amir Ben-Zion, advised the
City, on May 15, 2013, that it had no intention of re-opening the Leased Premises; and (5)
unbeknownst to the City/RDA and without their required approval under the Lease, subsequent to
the execution of the Lease, Tenant's managing member, Mr. Ben-Zion, transferred a 50% interest in
Penn 17 LLC, to a Mr. Roman Cherstvov.
WHEREAS, on or about May 14,2013, the City was notified of a sale proposal to sell Mr.
Ben-Zion's 50% managing interest in Penn 17 LLC (the Tenant entity), to a new entity, OBK Project
LLC (OBK), whereby Penn 17 LLC would continue as the Tenant under the Lease (without Mr. Ben-
Zion as a manager member), and Mr. Cherstvov and OBK would each have a fifty percent (50%)
membership interest in the Tenant entity; and
WHEREAS, on May 17,2013, in light of the aforementioned defaults, the City placed Tenant
in default under the lease; and
WHEREAS, on June 5,2013, the City/RDA approved City Resolution No. 2013-28239 and
RDA Resolution No. 593-2013, approving and authorizing the execution of Amendment No. 3, which
was executed by Landlord and Tenant on October 4,2013, containing the following materialterms
and conditions:
1. Landlord's approval of the transfer of 50% managing interest of the Tenant entity,
from Mr. Ben-Zion to OBK Project LLC;
2. Landlord to payforthe relocation of the existing kitchen exhaustventing system, for
a total cost not to exceed $250,000;
3. Tenant to pay past due rent for May, June, Jul and August, 2013 without penalties;
4. Tenant to re-deposit the minimum required $50,000 Construction Deposit into the
Tenant Construction Fund (under the Escrow Agreement);
5. Tenant to assume responsibility for paying and prosecuting the work related to
Tenant's prior request to re-locate the Premises' air conditioning units to the roof of
the Pennsylvania Avenue Garage;
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6. Tenant to resolve and/or othenruise satisfy any outstanding contractor and sub-
contractors liens against the Premises;
7 . Tenant to provide the City/RDA with an updated general release, releasing City/RDA
from any and all claims under the Lease;
8. Tenant authorized the payment of rent for November and December, 2012, in the
total sum of $120,520.52 (i.e. Minimum Rent and CAM of $1 12,636.00 plus sales tax
of $7,884.52), from Tenant's Security Deposit (Deposit Disbursement). Tenant was
obligated to re-pay and reimburse Landlord for the Deposit Disbursement, in six (6)
equal payments of $18,772.67 each (the Deposit Disbursement Payments), with the
first Deposit Disbursement Payment due on October 1, 2013, and with the last
Payment to be made on March 1,2014. Landlord waived any and all late charges,
interest and penalties on said Deposit Disbursement Payments;
9. commencing retroactively as of January, 1 ,2013, Tenant was permitted to abate fifty
percent (50%) of Minimum Rent and CAM payments for the months of January,
2013, through June 2013 (the "Rent Abatement Period"), in the total sum of
$168,954.00;
10. commencing retroactively as of July 1,2013, Tenant was permitted to defer the
payment of fifty percent (50%) of Minimum Rent and CAM payments for the months
of July 2013, through December, 2013 (the "Rent Deferral Period"), in the total sum
of $171,106.59 (the "Rent Deferral Amount"). Tenant was required to re-pay the
monthly payments of $7,129.44 each, over a period of twenty-four (24) months,
commencing on the first day of Year Six (6) of the Lease (10-1-2016), and ending on
the last day of Year Seven (7) of the Lease (9-1-2018), in addition to Tenant's
payment of Minimum Rent, CAM, and any other sums due and payable under the
Lease; and
11. the restaurant would be opened by December 31, 2013.
WHEREAS, the Tenant opened the restaurant under the name Oolite on June 15th, 2014
and is open daily for lunch and dinner service; and
WHEREAS, during the July 3}th, 2014 Commission meeting, Steve Polisar, Esq.,
representing the Oolite Restaurant, represented that the Lessee had made a large financial
commitment to have professional management; however, Oolite has approximately 7,800
square feet of space and is paying $65,000 a month in rent, which is too high forthe Tenant;
and
WHEREAS, at the July 30th 2014 Commission meeting, the City Commission passed a
motion to (1) authorize the Administration to have discretion to negotiate, including abatement of the
rent; (2) referthe item to the September Finance and Citywide Projects Committee meeting, and (3)
bring back for final approval at the October 22,2014 Commission Meeting; and
WHEREAS, on September24,2014the Finance and Citywide Projects Committee met and
discussed the subject item and recommended that the Administration hire a commercial real estate
broker to analyze the Premises; however, Tenant would be required to pay interim base rent, in the
amount of $24,474.00, plus applicable sales tax (lnterim Base Rent), retroactively, commencing July
1,2014; and
WHEREAS, the Administration recommends the City Commission adopt the attached
Resolution as recommended by the Finance and Citywide Projects Committee, including requiring
that the Tenant pay the lnterim Base Rent plus the common area charges, in the amount of
$8,474.00, along with applicable sales tax, as required under the existing Lease, pending the
analysis of the Premises and negotiations with respect to the Lease.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DULY RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, hereby accept the recommendation of the Finance
and Citywide Projects Committee with respect to hiring a commercial real estate broker to analyze
the City-owned retail space located at 1661 PennsylvaniaAvenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139,
213
which is the subject of a lease (Lease) between the Miami Beach Redevelopment Agency (RDA)
and the City (collectively, Lessor) and Penn 17 , LLC (lessee); and requiring Lessee to retroactively
pay interim base rent, in the amount of $24,474.00, plus common area maintenance (CAM) as
required underthe Lease, allwith applicable sales tax, effective July 1 , 2014, pending receipt of the
analysis and completion of negotiations; and further providing that if Lessee fails to pay said lnterim
base rent and CAM, Lessee shall be considered in default under the Lease.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this _ day of 2014.
ATTEST:
Rafael E. Granado, City Clerk Philip Levine, Mayor
T:\AGENDAV0 1 4\October\TCED\Pen n 1 7 CMB Reso 1 0-22-20 1 4.doc
APPROVED AS TO
FORM & LANGUAGE
& FOR EXECUTION tD-IA.L ro(r4[14-
-cwenqnyxyt
G
214
EXHIBIT *A"
Rent Reduction Plan Request Letter
215
Scptembcr 19,201.1
Max Sklar
Ciq'of Miami Beach
Sent via E-mail
Dear Mr. Sklar.
We are asking you to lind attached, the most recent version of our proposal accompanied b1' our
projected budget tbr two years 2014-2016. l"or the rent rve are asking t'or a guarantee ol'$ 16,000
per month if our gross revenue is under $200.000 per month. ll'our gross revenue is over
$200,000 \t'e are asking for $16.000 per month plus 8% of sales cxceeding $200.000 pcr month.
ln rcsearching the industry standard 87o seems to be thc norm for same tlpc businesscs in [\'!iami
Ileach. Our attached budget includes rent calculations based on sales pmjections.
As you are aware. we had a very slow start in June and July. Fortunately, lbr the months ol'
August and September which are considered the slowest months f'or businesses in Miami lleach,
wc have exlrcrienccd stcady growth. Nevcrtheless, we continue to deal with losscs that arc vcn'
costl)'. With that said wc ask that you considcr suspending our rcnt paymr'nt tbr thc months ol
Octobcr and November as \re want so much to stay alloat. We want to continue gmwing Oolitc
and w'orking with City to the point that the City is proud to have a successlul establishntent as a
tenant.
Wc continue to thank you for 1'our assistance and willingness to rvork u'ith us.
Sincerely.
Kris Wessel
Chef / Partncr
Romen Cherstvov
MGRM
Qnur,Z
Penn l7 LLC, l66l Pennsylvonio Ave. Miomi Beoch, FL 3313?
tel. 305 907 5535 fox 305 8OB 3417 info@oolitereslouronl.com
216
EXHIBIT *B''
Oolite (Tenant) 201412015 -201512016 Revenue Forecast
217
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Max A. Sklar
Director
Miami Beach
Tourism, Culture, Economic Development Department
1755 Meridian Avenue
Suite #500
MiamiBeach, FL 33139
RE: Oolite Rertaurant & Bar, Penn 17 et al t2 month through 35 month illarkefing Plan, Strategy
and Actlvaton, with a comprehenslve lntegrated ilarketlng lmage & Awareness Campaign
September 16,2014
Dear Mr. Sklar:
We regret to inform you by way of this writing that the comprehensive document that we believe you
expected to receive could not be completed in your deadline.
Attached you willfind:
[at A Media Kit for Oolite Restaurant & Bar, inclusive of press hits, bios, menus and releases
[bl As a reference only, a sample of the components of our Q3 and Q4 Marketing Activation Plan for the
Penn 17 enterprise(s). These documents are the working mapping for each quarter and explain an
assortment of ootenlialor actual activation or implementation.
This is not a complete representalion and it does not address the core question of revenue generation
and growth over a '12 - 24 - 36 month period in a planned modet.
However, that comprehensive document of Differentiated Marketing Strategy and lntegrated Marketing
Practices, as we outlined, will be completed prior to the actual September 251h,2014, Commissioner'i
Finance Meeting. The other positive benchmark to note is ihe build for an actual Oolite website has
started and launch is scheduled for October 1, 2014 and Partnerships to augment marketing and add
value while mitigating costs have begun to evolve into contracting.
Powerhaus will submit digitalty and in hard copy and we realize you do not want Powerhaus to present.
Please feelfree to reach me through Penn 17 et alor directly at the contacts listed.
FRA]iIK FLYNN
for: Powerhaus
954 732 6383
frank@oower-haus.com
www.oower-haus.com
cc: Roman Cherstvov
Kris Wessel
Oleg Krasutskiy
Truly,
225
oolite I A.l.R.
.i.,: l,:' i ilf i ).r lit'rltir,'
,r j".l{:li
226
Tt!_tE-&aerto_N aBjEqtLvEs
SEP,14 I oigital ueaia rct
Backgrounder
Fact Sheet
Bio(s)
Menus
Hi Res / Lo Res lmages
Press Releases
Completed. Placement email issued for content on site.
Mlami Home Design & RemodelingShow Fatt 2Ol4
Event Sponsor: Home Show Management Corp.
Fri, Aug 29,2014 through Tue, Sep 2,20L4
Event Type: Public Event
Contact: 305-567 -9299
Website : bftp.//L^n^nUI9ln e-
shows.com/
Mlami New Construc.don Show
Event Sponsor: New Construction Show, LLC
Fri, Aug 29,2014 through Sun, Aug 3t,2Ot4
Event Type: Tradeshow
Contact 305-209-9880
Asla America Trade Show 2014
Event Sponsor: Americas Technology platform
Tradeshow, lnc.
Miami Beach Visitors & | Mon, Sep B,ZOI+ through Wed, Sep 10, 2014
Event Type: TradeshowConvention I Contact: 305-262-3200
i.,i. I lWebsire:http://yy1151v.aer$erusCl
I I HD Americas 2014
I I Event Sponsor: Nielesen Business Media, tnc.
I I Tue, Sep t6,Z0t4 through Wed, Sep t7,ZOt4
I I EventType: Tradeshow
I I Contact:710_569_t540
I I Website: hnpj./lt&ry,hdqqe_ricasexpq.cor.ru,El_bllrI I fUilp Dance Conyention
I I Event Sponsor: Break the Floor Productions
I I SaL Sep Z7,ZO|4 and Sun, Sep 28, 2014
I I Event Type: Special Event
.:.:,. I l conurct:2l2-397-3600
:..,:.,,,11 | Website: http://tywr,Vjumptouleonr/
' ' ...,;..-,:l I Gttrs should be discussed)
i ,", ,i I Miami Spa Aesthedc and Wellness Expo'' l I Event Sponsor: Miami Spa Aesthetic and Wellness
I I Expo, LLC
SaL Sep 27,2014 and Sun, Sep 28, 2014
Event Type: Consumer Show
Contact: 786-558-5234
Website: http://www.sawexpo.com/
227
EacCbook I frand Message
SEP'14 -l ;Conrrrsarion'elements i tosting Freqiency
ocrls luseasaBros l lffi:;#:*#ll;:1i1ix,""",,"*,
-Contests
-Coupons/0ffers
-Facebook Advertising
Twltter
Social Media marketing There was an increase of followers on week of
August 4th,2014, but that is attributed to the first
3.5 Food Review in nearly 2 years in Miami. The
key objective is Coordination and a clear plan on
how Social agent will capture more Followers,
absent presently. Continuing to be reactive and
using t}re NRF of Kris will have a tipping point.
0ngoing.
Landing page is up and running.
Currently we gathered design elements and
photography and researched for SEO and most
impactful contenL Wireframe and Site Architecture as
well as functionality with "Ancho/' type look and feel
was completed.
Webslte
OGT'14 I nirmi Beach Visitorc &4 Fall Condo & HOA Expo
Convention
Sponsor: L & L Exhibition Management, lnc.
Thu, Oct 2,2014
Type: Tradeshow
:952-881-5030
: http ://www.condohoaexpo.com/
Sponsor: Solefest, LLC
nf Sat, Oct 4,2014
Type: Consumer Show
954-5t2-4L87
ite: http://solefestcom/tickets/
lnternational Showcase Fall 2Ol4
Sponsor: feweler's lnternational Showcase, lnc.
: Thu, Oct 9 / Fri, Oct 10 / Sat, Oct I I and Sun, Oct 12,
4
t Type: Tradeshow
: 561-998-0205
ebsite: http ://www.jisshow.com/
Xtreme Dance Competition
Sponsor: Showbiz Xtreme
: Sun, Oct 12,201+
Type: Consumer Show
tact.r. 972-681-7177
: // wwws h owb i zx tre m e.co m / t aculty / f acu I ty.h tm I
228
Miami Beach Visitors &International Surface Event 2014
Sponsor: Hanley-Wood, LLC
OCTr14 | Convention (conL)Mon, Oct 20,2014 / Tue, Oct 21,2074 / Wed,
22,20r+
nt Type: Tradeshow
ite : http : //www.su rfaces.co m/
lewish Tradeshow
Sponsor: The Global lewish Business Llnk, LLC
Sun, Oct 26 and Mon, Oct 27,2014
Type: Tradeshow
305-+60 -22 54 or 3 47 -802 -7 899
Volleyball
Sponsor: Coastal Volleyball
Sun, Oct 26 and Mon, Oct 27 ,2014
Type: Consumer Show
r 805-701-3156
ebsite: http://www.coastalvolleyball.com/
Americas Food & Beverage Show
Sponsor: World Trade Center Miami
: Mon, Oct 27 and Tue, Oct 28,201+
Type: Tradeshow
305-871-7910
fames Beard Foundation
Website:
httpl//www.americasfoodandbeverage.com/
Pursuing a nomination for Kris by
beginning with an Awareness Campaign
among voters and influenUal, leading to
October nominations and an ongoing
campaign. This would include a dinner --- SOON -- which leads up to candidate
nominations and May announcements and
awards,
Dintng / Corporate Program
Conclerge Program
Promotion on "Private Dining" on Open table
-Direct communication with M iami's Destination
Management Companies
Marketing materials are being created.
- Direct communication with concierges
around Miami- Partnership with South Florida Concierge
Association- Pafinership with "Concierge connect''
229
230
231
WFOR
wTv,
WSVN (after a pause)
CBS Saturday Morning
Fox & Friends
Sponsor: Blue Star Productions
n: Fri, fan 2 - Sun, lan 4,2015
t Type: Consumer Show
5St-766-2800
ebsite: http://wwwdiscoverthedinosau rsco m/
Sponsor: Epic Spirit Ventures
: SaL lan f0, 2015
Type: Special Event
877-322-2310
Sponsor: Film, Stage & Showbiz Expo, LLC
n: Thu, fan 15, 2015
Type: Tradeshow
:272-404-2345
: httpr//www.smallbusinessexpo.co m/
Sponsor: Advanstar Communications, lnc.
: Fri, lan 15 - Sun, fan 18, 2015
Type: Consumer Show
: 310-857-7500
: http ://www.motorcycleshows.com/
nt Sponsor: Life Time Trialthlon Series, LLC
: Fri, fan 23 - Sa[ lan 24, 2015
Type: Consumer Show
ontact: 305-278-8568
ttp://www.usroadsports.com/Signature/M iami/
Ian 2015
t Sponsor: feweler's lnternational Showcase, lnc.
: Sat, lan 24 - Mon, lan 26, 2015
Type: Tradeshow
551-998-0205
ebsite: http://www.jisshow.com/
vent Sponsor: George Little Management, LLC
n: Fri, fan 30 - Tue, Feb 3, 2015
t Type: Consumer Show
239-732-6642
ebsite:
/www.originalmiam ibeachantiqueshow.com /
232
FEB'15 Programs reyiew and modification {if External. Partnership/Endorsement. Marketing Tools
lnternal. Client email capture distribution. Web Letter. Destinationmarketing. Miami Beach influential / political integrarion. Formal lnfluential /Media
relations event
Check presenter contain feedback card
Wine tasting as well
Assess and determine level of Events managcable in
Social media promotional plan
SEO & Key words
Discuss / decide on concierge drops and messaging -
Ongoing Pre-Fixe Menu offers for rotation
Culinary driven Signature Cocktails Program
Yelp and Opentable / maximize integration with their
services
All online imagery and copy regularly scouted and
reviewed
1 Locally sourced meats and seafood B6oh Soh go/o
2 Locally grown produce 86% 3o/a ll%o
3 Sustainabiliry 82oh 5oi, LToh
4 Nutrition balance children's dishes 79% 60/o tsah
5 Hyper-local (e.g. restaurant gardens,) 79oh l3o/o 9o/o
6 Children's nutrition 79gb 50/o 160A
7 Sustainable seafood 79o/o 8o/o l3Yo
8 Gluten-free/food allergy conscious lloh t}oh l\a/o
9 Simplicity/back to basics 77% 6Vo lToA
10 Farm/estate-branded ingredients 76Vo l4o/o l}srh
t 1 M icro-d istil I ed/artisan liquor I 4orfi lZ o/o BVo
12 Locally-produced wine and beer 73o/o lTo/o lso/o
t3 Half-portions/small for a smaller price 7Zofi lSo/n
t3%
t4 Organic produce 72oti l9oh l3ko
I 5 N utrition/health 7 Zoh 60/0 22%
16 Culinary cocktails (savory, fresh ingredients) 7l%
2r%8%
l7 Newly fabricated cuts of meat (e.g. Denver steak, pork
flat iron, Petite Tender) 690/o Zloti l}o/s
l8 Fruit/vegetable children's side items 690/0 ll?6 ZOVI
Ranked as researched, How can we best
these items and particularly for
sponsorship and or support oI new
nL Percentages will be explained)
numeration sequence:
"., I Trend/Overdone/ Perennial
233
FACT SHEET
Name. Oolite Restaurant & Bar / o'o'lite (Yo-?-?lit\) n.
Definition: particles composing limestone and coral, the Bedrock of the Florida Peninsula
Address: 1661 PennsYlvania Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33139
at 17th Street
Just two steps off Lincoln Road
Chef Partner: Kris Wessel
Manager: Frank Scottolini
Reservation: (305) 907-5535orOpenTable
www.ooliterestaurant.com
DiningStyle: CasualElegantCuisine: American (Regional)
Price: $30 and under at Lunch
$50 at Dinner
Operation: Lunch Daily: 12pm - 3:00pm
Dinner:
Tuesday - Thursday: 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Friday and Saturday: 6:00pm - Midnight
Sunday: 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Ambience: Design is Modem Craftsman, Mid Century references, wood, glass and Oolite stoneDesigner: Jeff Vaughan, Kris Wessel and Teresa Estevez (collectively)
Parking: Public Lot self parking garages are located on 17th Street between Meridian and Pennsytvania, and
at the New World Center on Lincoln Road Lane, just off Pennsylvania Avenue br $1 per hour.
Payment Visa, MasteCard, AMEX
Dress Code: CasualWalkJns: Yes
Amenities: Wine and Spirits Beer, Full Bar, Personalwines welcome(corkage fee applies),Takeout, Weekend
Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Banquet, Chefs Table, Non-smoking Area (Patio/Outdoor) Alfresco
Dining
Smoking: Patio only
Private Room: 140 seat dining room available for buyouts
Large Private room up to 40 guests
Small Private room up to 10 guests
A.V. capabilities
Bar: 60 seat Bar, Bar Dining, Bar Lounge
Happy Hour: Everyday - 4pm to 7pm
OolTre
234
UilItt'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KRIS WESSEL OPENS OOLITE RESTAURANT & BAR
Florida Regional Cooking 3.0 from the Native Son
South Beach Florida, July 1.2014_Kris Wessel has opened Oolite Restaurant & Bar, a complex and
ambitious South Beach Hospitality project.
Oolite (pronounced ooo-light) Restaurant & Bar, is located just two steps offLincoln Road at l66l
Pennsylvania Avenue. and is named for the F lorida bedrock, limestone and cora! rock fbundation that
composes the bedrock of Florida.
The James Beard nominated chef. is partners with Roman Cherstvov in the grandly scoped project
composed of an expansive 200 seat space. 60 person Bar and two Private Dining rooms. Oolite wilt feature
healthful dining.
"l am showcasing what I love." said Wessel. "regiona!. local cuisine concentrated in simplified
plating of land and sea protein-driven offerings".
The kitchen will produce true locavore cuisine that uses natural flavors instead ol'chemical
enhancements. There will be strict adherence to limited or no use of processed ingredients. gluten. and
saturated fats.
"This is Regional Florida cooking 3.0 and the evolution is healthy componenrs." said Wessel.
referring to his stint as chef owner of the beloved Red Light l,inle River, a f'unky bur cherished space wirh a
loyal following for its fresh. regional tbod prepared every night by Wessel: and thereafter (2012), Wessel
opened Florida Cookery at fte James Royal Palm Hotel. based on recipes from Esther Wessel's kitchen and
the Wessel family's 90 year history in South Florida.
:MORE=-
235
U-ilItr:
'.t,',r. r.rr .\ lr,
Wessel fans are relieved however with the fact that within the healthy framework Wessel has lound
room to continue with his signature dishes including BBQ shrimp. gumbo and rabbit crepes. The latter
cooked as his fait accompli for the win on Chopped.
"This commitment is thought through"" Wessel explained. "l look at my beautiful daughters and I
only want them to eat the finest healthiest ingrediens. This is the direction all food is evolving."
Oolite. he went on, is the natural progression of where food choice is trending. even recognizing
such menus at fine dining at the very highest level.
"With Oolite. we bring a healthy. gluten free. processed free concept on a local favorite restaurant
platform."
ffi
Page2 ol2
Contacts
Oolite Resteurant & Ber
Menager Frank Scottolini
166l Pennsylvenie Avenue
(30s) 907-ss3s
llledia
Frenk Flynn
Powerheus
9tt 732 63t3
frank@oower-baus.com
236
(hl Ttt'
BACKGROUNDER
Kris Wessel and Oolite Restaurant & Bar
The path to Flodda Cooking 3.0
Kris Wesscl Miami nalirc son has applic'd his crali lbr twenty ),ears as a local Florida ('hcl'and
Restaurateur. Kris hus created onc ol'the mosl inrportarrt dialogues bctrvcclt the brlunt-r'of the Southctrsl resion's
rL.riourccs. culturc and cuisinc. Wesscl rvas born in lil.rrida. but has a culinarr DNA lornrcd in Nerr ()rlcans. ,,\s
a tecnager Kris stalked thc kitchens t'r[ tourist crortded. l:rench stt'le rcstaurants: gnining skills [rr. nmnirrs.
prepping and cooking.
Wessel completed his Bacheltrr's deqree in l-lotel Restaurant Managernent at Florida lntcrnational
Universit!'(Mianri) and an apprentice tour in [:urope. staging at Michelin starred reslauranls in Austritr. Spain.
France and ltaly. His working career hegan with Mark Militello al Mark's Place. Ovcr lhe coursc ol-thrcc vr.ars.
he traincd up from Sous Chef to Exccutivc Chel.
llis t'irst Owner - ()pcrator conccpt. Paninoteca a [:urostvle sandrtich slrop. opcncd on l-irrct,lrr Road
(1996). Paninoteca was a comnrcrcial success and nrorc inrporrantly. introduccd thc cmlismanship und
peruonalitl ol'Kris Wc'sscl ltr the cturnruniLl. llis bluc collar e'thics $'crc noticcd uncl ernbraccd hr his
consumer. the media and the conrnrunitl.
Wessel ltrllowed u.ith Liaison. Wessel sculpted and cultil'ated the arrlul Florida - l-ouisiana e ulinan
based restauranl into his signaturc culinary statement and destination. Gucsts and lnedia flockcd to lhe
restaurant housed in a landmark deco era building just ol1- hipster lrspanola \\ta1. (iuests enrered in thc sea
breeze thrr:ugh the restored hand carved rvooden bi-li)ld doors. and l'loor to ceiling srvar,ing uhite cotron
cuflains. -l-hc'n past the mctal bar and transported into an cnl'ironrnent cloned tium thc Quartt'r. Wcsscl's
prescient vision and nearl.v perlect pitch uith l.iaison gave hirn thc credibililv to Brand a cuisine dirccriorr. llc
creatcd Ncw Meditcrranean ('uisinc at Ijlia tl00l) in Ual Flartour Shops. 'l'his trolcl starcrncnr ol'a
comprchensive branded culinary direction lrom a ),oung chel'placed Wessel onto the national stage. ln the rcn
brief pc'riod of l8 months he established the imprimatur oI the cuisinc. received a "Rising Star ot'Americarr
Cuisine" noticc tiorn Star C'hctls. and sowed additional seeds r,'ith national rncdia including thc New York
Tintes. Food & Wine. I'he Washinglon Post and NB('. Wessc'l staged and hosted a dinncr uith Patricia
Quintana to undcrpin his philosophl that llcgional cooking is rrot orrly gr.'ograph.r,hut cniatility in rcxturirrg
flavor lionr indigcnous rcs()urces. l-lis Ncrv Mediter!'ancan -lames Beard Foundation l)inner rlas ertrernelr
successful and introducinu hirn to thc New York lbod world.
Most lirllowers considered Liaison Wessc'l's nrasterpie'cc until he opened Rcd Light Littlc Rivcr (20tt6).
Wesscl turned the lirnky rivc'rside spot uith a pollutcd river tlrat was killirrg the Manatee nrigration lnd thc
Manatces. into a l'unkr nationally recoqnized lood destirralion. ln a rrhirlrr,ind ()nc nlarl renovation the derclict
building uas reclaimed and the l.ittle River clean-up canrpaign \\ls born.'l'he Manirtces returned and \\'csscl
redelincd Florida Regional ('ooking.
237
(}rl Itt'
1-hc rangc in the mcnu u'as uncharacteristicalN lirnited hur drivcn trr thc lact that \\'esscl *r'r,, U ,.trr.
changcs daill in cc'nain llsh items becausc hc rJrovc to thc docks tr) mect thc boats or t'ishmonecrs bclirrc dann.
returning thc fish tirr storaue at Red Light then slrinuing hack to pick up his daughtcrs t'or school. thcn rcturning
Ior a maslcrlul onc ntan kitchen perlbrntance t'or each dincr. -l'hc Rcd t-ight uppcal residcd in thc detcrnrinatiorr
and Blue C'ollar uork cthic ol'Kris \l'cssel. A do/Bn intitators har,c uscd the Llisca-rne Boulcvard "ncighhr.rrhood
catr'r1" tcnrplatc. But the nragic and dentand uas crcutcd rrith the original. a horn cnd hrcd Mianri natilc st'rr
rrho greu up lo beconrc possibll,thc mosl originalol'all Miarlir,heli uho rnatclr local ilrgredicnts and ccnlinlr
thc rnost adrenlurous in creatinu cuisinc.
Rcd t.ight \\As a hip Road House dining expcrience ollbrin-c divcrsitr. t'ronr rich cthnic irc'nrs ro tlrc
kitschl Alnerican ljlorida crtmlbn lirod. llis lircus nas noticcd br a.lames Bcnrd l-oundation nomination lirr
"lJcst ('hel'- South Rcgion." (1010). Rcd t.ight uas tl'alurcd pronrincntlv in llon Appctir arrd rhc Nr:* \'ork
"l'itncs. thc latter stating his 100 seat "rcgional dining" c()ncept \\as one ol'the " l'op 5" destinatipn re\taurailtr in
Miami. Rcd light bccotne a lictim of thc succcss it creatcd on Bisca,vnc lloulerard. Rcal r,-slatc priccs nrsc and
thc attaching building sold. Wcssel rras pushed out olhis conccpl mastcrpiece.
Wesscl moved on (2012) uith l.lorida ('ookery ol'thc Janres Roral Palnr horel. llerc.. his l'ocus rras on
atrthenticating Rcd l.ight's Resional appnrach. He deepencd his conrrnitmcnt and l:lorida ('ooken \r'as n()l onl\
inllucnced hy Red Light it was gir'en breath h1 a cookbook dating back to lQ.l3 lbuntl in his grandrlolhcr
l]sthcr's kitchcn on Mianri lJcach. ln June Jtf l{. \['esscllnnounced thc opcning of oolitc Rcstaurarrt & Bar.
Oolitc received,j.-s stars lronr rhc Miurni llr:rald lirr Cthcf []artncr Kris Wcsscl's original ]lcalthr
Regional fjare'cttttccpt inspired br1 thc ttrod culturc t-r1'the [rlorida rcgion. the Arnerican S6uth. the C'arihbuan
and South Anterica. l-hc tnc-nu ol'hcalth-r' hased cuisirte is gluten free and prorcin specilic. Oolirc's dirersc
kitchen technique uses modcrn and traditional apprtraches (o produclion including slou,erxrking- poaching.
stcaming. smoking. grilling. dchldratinu and preserving.'l'hc crcutive sr-asonal nrr,'nu identilics uirh locals urr
lartlrite lood usc and recipes. Oolite is two steps ol1'l.incoln Road. ad.iaccnl t(r the ('6nrcntiorl ('entcr u11tl t6c
Fillnrorc"l'heatcr. Oolitc's Cralisman intcrior rcl'ercnces nrid ccntun Anrcrican rvith hand cralicrl rrootj tablcs.
uuinscoting. glass tile and purc Oolitc lirnestonc.'fhc Artisanal uine and becr prograrn rras singlcd prrt lirr
originalit_r.
ffi
238
( Irl itt'
Contact
Oolite Restaurant & Bar
Menager Frank Scottolini
t66l Pennsylvania Avenue
(30s) e07-ss3s
Medir Contact
Frank Flynn
Powerheus
954 732 63t3
fre n k(0 oower-he us.com
www.oower-hlus.com
Page2 oI2
901 words in backgrounder
946 totel words
239
KRIS WESSEL
Long Blo
Miami Native Son - Child of the Rising Sun
Loca! Flodda Ghef/ Restaurateur
For twenty years, Kris Wessel has created one of the most important dialogues between the bounty of
the Southeast region's resources, culture and cuisine.
Wessel, bom in Florida, has a culinary DNA formed in the great food city of New Orleans. Early and
throughout his teenage years, he had a love affair with the kitchens of tourist crowded, French style
restaurants; gaining skills by running, prepping and cooking. A121, Wessel completed his Bachelor's
degree in Hotel Restaurant Management at Florida lnternational University in Miami. Wesselfollowed
this with an irnmeasurably valuable nine month apprentice tour in Europe, where he staged at
Michelin starred restaurants in Austria, Spain, France and ltaly.
Wessel began his working career in eamest under the tutelage of founding Mango Gang pioneer,
Mark Militello at Mark's Place. Over the course of three years, he trained up from Sous Chef to
Executive Chef. This experience and his ambition motivated the launch his first Orner - Operator
concept. Paninoteca a Eurostyle sandwich shop, opened on Lincoln Road in 1996, Paninoteca was a
commercial success and more importantly, introduced the craflsmanship and personality of Kris
Wessel to the community. His blue collar ethics and workmanship were noticed and embraced by his
consumer, the media and the community.
ln three years time, Wessel followed with Liaison. He built Liaison with his own two hands. Wessel
sculpted and cultivated the artful Florida - Louisiana culinary based restaurant in a chef driven
concept. Liaison became his signature culinary statement and destination. Guests and media flocked
to the restaurant housed in a landmark deco era building just off hipster Espanola Way. Guests
entered through the restored hand carved wooden bifold doors, and floor to ceiling white cotton
curtains swaying in the sea breeze. Then past the metal bar and transported into an environment
cloned from the Quarter.
The ambience shrouded you in palpable, perfectly balanced lighting. Sconce and fixtures threw
sufficient light to find your way but cloaked you in an atmosphere of another time. Recovered wood
floors sometimes spoke to you in creaks explaining the vintage stories of its past. Wessel was
encased in a partially visible kitchen only slightly larger than a New York City Galley kitchen
occasionally jetting by in the open space, sometimes stationary while he contemplated over the finish
of a plate about to be picked up and other times looking out at his fans and ftiends and flashing that
famous smile. But ahrays producing a dining experience so unique it demanded and deserved allthe
attention it received.
Wessel's prescient vision and nearly perfect pitch with Liaison gave him the credibility to Brand a
cuisine direction. He created New Mediterranean Cuisine at Elia (2003) in Bal Harbour Shops.This
bold statement of a comprehensive branded culinary direction from a young chef placed Wessel onto
the national stage. ln the very brief period of 18 months he established the imprimatur of the cuisine,
received a 'Rising Star of American Cuisine" notice ftom the James Beard Foundation and Star
Chets, and sowed additional seeds with national media including the New York Times, Food & Wine,
The Washington Post and NBC. Wessel staged and hosted a dinner with Patricia Quintana to
underpin his philosophy that Regional cooking is not only geography but creativity in texturing flavor
from indigenous resources. His New Meditenanean James Beard Foundation Dinner was among the
most successful ever presented.
The matching and layering of flavors using regional foods that touched upon the Mediterranean
yielded the unexpected and potent results of a 1953 52nd Street after hours Bop session.
240
Wrile most followers considered Liaison Wessel's masterpiece he opened Red Light Little River in
2006. Wessel tumed the funky riverside spot with a polluted river that was killing the Manatee
migration and the Manatees, into a funky nationally recognized food destination. ln a whirlwind one
man show he renovated the derelict building with his own hands, organized and then led a Little River
clean-up campaign. The Manatees returned and Wessel redefined Florida Regional Cooking. The
range in the menu was uncharacteristically limited but driven by the fact that Wessel would have
changes daily in certain fish items because he drove to the docks to meet the boats or fishmongers
before dawn, retum the fish for storage at Red Light and swing back to pick up his daughters for
school, returning for a masterfulone man kitchen performance through Lunch and Dinner.
The Red Light appeal resided in the determination and Blue Collar ethics and work ethic of Kris
Wessel. A dozen imitators have used the Biscayne Boulevard "neighborhood eatery" template. But
the magic and demand was created with the original, a born and bred Miami native son who grew up
to become possibly the most original of all Miami chefs who match local ingredients and certainly the
most adventurous in creating cuisine.
Red Light was a hip Road House dining experience offering diversity, from rich ethnic items in the
Haitian Style to the kitschy American comfort food of Florida. His concentration and focus was noticed
by a James Beard Foundation nomination for "Best Chef - South Region," (2010). The media noticed
as well. Red Light featured prominently in publications such as Bon App6tit and the New York Times,
the latter stating his 100 seat "regional dining" concept was one of the "Top 5" destination restaurants
in Miami. Red light became a victim of the very success it created on Biscayne Boulevard. \Mth the
real estate prices rising and the attaching building selling, Wessel was pushed out of his concept
masterpiece.
Wessel moved on in 2012 with Florida Cookery of the James Royal Palm hotel property.Here, he
began his vision with the work he had focused on authenticating Red Light. He deepened his
commitment to Regional fare and the accessible approach. The concept would evotve and be
centered in the Wessel DNA. Florida Cookery was not only influenced by Red Light it was given
breath by a cookbook dating back to 1943 found in his grandmother's kitchen and the Wessel family's
90 years on MiamiBeach.
By June 2014, Wessel announced the opening of Oolite Restaurant & Bar. Oolite is the foundation
baserock of the Florida peninsula, beaches and in the coral bedrock of surrounding shores.
Ambitious, robust and accessible, Oolite, a casual contemporary restaurant, is foremost a healthy
dining concept constructed with the signature flavors and culture of the Region. Located in the heart
of Miami's South Beach just two steps off Lincoln Road, Oolite is housed in a Frank Gehry Building
and neighbor to the New World Symphony; an emerging Arts District; Oolite is adjacent to the
Convention Center and the Fillmore. There is no other 200 seat fine dining establishment with such
destination assets.
The focus of menu items is on healthy aspects of Plant, Land and Sea Protein are influenced by the
cuisine and product of the Region; Florida, the Gull the Caribbean, and the American eaitern
seaboard. The goal is a fresh and flavorful menu of healthy benefit. A 'new' way of dining that
incorporates almost zero processed ingredients, gluten or saturated fats. Wessel's authentic,
progressive Healthy Regionalcuisine is framed in a 3.0 version, the evolution being Red Light, Florkla
Cookery and now Oolite Restaurant & Bar amplifies Wessel's credibility to create originJl Regional
concepts.
Wessel's community involvement is unquestionable. He applies himself intensely to causes for
Children, Hunger and the Environment. He is a leader by his example and has earned a true respect
of his peers as a leading culinary figure. \Mren he is not answering to 'Chef!" he is answers to
"Papa". Wessel is father to two beautiful girls, Natasha 15 and Anais 10.
**#
241
LUNCH MENU
EAT NOW
Fried green tomato 9 ln rightful hands 14 Grilled "safe Chicken,,, 11
Arepa & romescu sauce Wessel's BBQshramp mango & lime
Goat cheese, 9 SmokedYellowJack& 12
malbar brussel pops saltykeytime zucchini
sArlDs
Spinach salad, Poached Egg, Creole Mustard Vinaigrette
Extra
Bocon protein +3
Savory 3 Grain 3 Flavor Salad Platter
Florida Summer salad, Anocado, cucumber, iceberg temon & cllantro
super protein, lemon quinoa salad and wheatgrass vichyssoise
VEGETABLE PROTETN
3 Squash Hash, Dehydrated Vidalias & 7 Black beans (vegetable) 7
Flax
non gluten+eallycheesy Mac n Cheese 7
Green of Day Plate Thank G.O.D. 10
crrrnchy asparagus, spinach & G.o.D. steel corn grits, chicken stock, cheddar 7
Cauliflower 7
Kale chevre gratinee
Basmati rice or Brown Rice 7
12
14
11
7
rloLlii - i()(r1 FtNNsyt ,,.fA\tr. avi utAl1t BEAi h. FL _- iti)5;,r07-55?.
242
SANDWICHES
t,i(t-.t: ,|t(':,i.)i !i.;ii i:!i:{10! ,r 'i t.li i.t./li, il.4 ,;;,,.it,ij:.. !.,].rL'( : ,r. .:'
Fresh Fish 16 Ground Proteln Burgers: Veg-Quinoa- 11
Lime fennel greens, spiry hr.rmmus Lentll or Turkey
W cheese or avocado butter
Grilled "Safe Chicken" 1 1 Eftro + 3.s
Mango & Lime
Extra
Bocon +3
Jessica'S #5 Portobello Mushroom 12
House dried tomatoes, mozzarella & fun green
mix
SOUP N'BROTHS
Coconut{onch, Salsifif &- Corn Chowder
Brown rice<rab stuffed chayote & shellfish broth
SEA PROTEIN
Fl. White Water Clams, Lentil Rota, Tumeric Aioli
Freshest Seafood Dream today (ask server)
Hemlsphere Coruina curry peppers & caloloo
ANTMAL PROTEIN (COMESWITH CHOTCE OF SQUASH HASH, BLACK BEANS,
BROWN OR BASMATI RICE.
Palomilla Steak "Hialeah" Sqrle
Lechon (Pork)Sour Orange &. Onlons
Ropavleja (Hand Torn Beefl
11
12
14
24
22
22
19
20
243
Sour Orange Rotisserie "small farm" Chicken
Size
Holf 17 Whole3O
Summer Mango Pie
Sour Orange Flan & Masa tulle
$T'EET FINlSH
,:.,i ,'a-rr,,ri;:rNN5YLVANti\AVtr.,:l/ii\..ltHEA(H t-L_
'r;i,,),rr-g.j'Js
244
DINNER MENU
QUICK EATS
Litchl, Sour Ginger, 14 Brussel Sprouts, Creole 8 [ime grilled Chicken & 11
SnapperCrudoYPepltas GoatCheese Pops mango
Soup N' Broths Lime 11 ln Rlghtful Hands 14
Grilled Chicken & Mango Wessel'S BBQShrimp
Fried Green Tomato 9 Fl. White Water Clams, 15
Arepa & Romescu Sauce Lentil Roti, Tumerlc Aioli
SOUP N'BROTHS
Coconut-Gonch Salsify & Corn Chowder
Just Green Mchysolsse & Super Protein, Quinoa
SAIADS
Avocados Limes Y Tostones.(Frled Plantaln s)
Spinach Salad, Poached Egg, Creole Mustard Vlnaigrette
Meat
Bocon protein +3
Savory3 Grain 3 Flavor Salad Platter
Mushroomg Wild Onions, Greens& Morbler
11
9
8
12
11
10
ool trE- lui)l pENNSyLVAN|A AVt r,ltAl\ll Bth( l.t Ft - llo5i ?07-5535
245
SEA PROTEIN
Jack Fruit Grilled 27 Malne Lobster 3 "Surf N Surf'Platter 38
Swordfish Pea Shoots & (1.5lbs.Key Lime Broiled ) Crab Crlsp, Fl. Fish Sear
Almonds stuffed mussels&old
Whole Grilled Fish! Market sour
Sauteed Coruina Curry 26 (ChefS Prep) Meat
PePPers & calaloo Bacon protein + 3
ANIMAL PROTEIN
Palomilla Steak 20 Char Grllled Rlbeye 4 Curry Goat& Guana 24
'Hlaleah" Style
Joyce Farms Key Lime Fl. Orange-Tamarlnd
Grass Fed Flank Steak 24 Chicken Rotisserie Rotisserie Duck & Brazil
Broiled Tomatoes Size Nuts
Lechon (pork)sour 19 (k)17 whole3o size
(h)24 Whole42
Orange & Onlons Dryrrub, Smoke.
Greote Roasted oxtart 26 Braiseguanabana Rlbs
Size
Ropa Meja (Hand torn 18 Smoll14 Large26
beeO
VEGETABLE PROTEIN
Green of Day Plate Thank G.O.D. 10
Corn-Rlce Spaghetti, Tomato, Basi!, Garllc, Parm 18
Cauliflower - Kale Chevre Gratinee 8
3 Squash Hash Dehldrated vidalias & Flax 1 1
OOLITE _ 'I6b1 PENNSYLVANIA AV€ MIAMI BEACH. F L -- {]05; 907-59]:
246
PROTEIN SIDES
Steel Corn Gritq Chicken 7 Organlc Chlcken Stock 7 Bazmati Rice/Brown 7
Stock, Cheddar Poachedvegetables Rlce
Non Gluten-Really 7 Coconut Milk Salted 7 Black Beans (Vegetable) l
CheeseyMac N Cheese Potato Mash
FI.AT BREAD
1.1{lde iti ltolt\e
Rlce Flour Sesame Crispy Flats 7 Masa Tart:Onlon, Splnach & Cheese 7
Size
SliceT WholelT
$A'EET FINISH
Wessel'S Mango Ple, House Jam & 8 Fl. Honey Roasted Fruit Du Jour wlth 1 0
Almond Crust_ Hot Cheese Fondue and Chla Granola.
Chocolate Dance 12 Sour Orange, Dulce Flan wlth White 8
Fruit of the season paired with chocolate and Masa Tuile.
chefs technique of choice
SeasonalArocadoCheesecake,Honey 8
Yogurt & 6reen Pumpkin Seed Crust-
SNACK PI.ATES
Combo of 3
Cookies
Chocolate
21
7
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KRJS WESSEL'S BRUNCH AT OOLITE RESTAURANT & BAR
Ultro Cool and High volue
South Beach Floridr, Septcmber 10, 2014* Brunch, the great national dining pastime for
Americans young and old recovering from their weekend or preparing for the week ahead has begun at
Oolite Restaurant & Bar. (https://twitter.com/OoliteMiami;
https://www.facebook.com/OqlileMiami?ref=hl; www.ooliterestaurant.com;
https ://twitter.co m/ I chefl river)
The Oolite Brunch kicks off this Sunday, September l4th,2014 and will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bluefay( https://www.facebook.com/blueiaymusic), Miami's own ultra cool, indie alternative folk
pop trio of cello, guitar and harmonies will perform throughout.
The real star of the day, Kris Wessel's Gluten Free, Healthy Regional Fare will be offered in two (2)
value packages. The Beach Package ($26.99) includes a gluten-free a la carte item ( Huevos Rancheros,
Eggs Sardou, Key Lime & Garlic Rotisserie Chicken, Roasted Banana French Toast [shown]), house-baked
confections, fresh fruit bar, and soft beverages. The Beach Party Package ($39.99) includes the Beach
Package - plus -- bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys.
About Oolite
Oolite recently received 3.5 stars from the Miami Herald for Chef Partner Kris Wessel's unique. original
concept of Healthy Regional Fare inspired by the food culture and the bounty of producr in rhe region of
Florida. the American South. the Caribbean'and South America. Created as a healthy based cuisine. the enrire
menu is glulen fiee and protein specific. Oolite's kitchen is diverse in technique using modern and time tested
approaches to production including slow cooking. poaching, steaming, smoking. grilling. dehydrating and
preserving. The seasonal menu allows lbr a continual creative approach while always identifying with locals on
favorite food use and recipes. Destined to become an icon and housed in a Frank Gehry building. Oolire is just
two steps off Lincoln Road. adjacent to the Convention Center and the Fillmore -fheater. Oolite's Clrallsman
interior design references mid century American with lush wood hand crafted tables and wainscoting. glass and
pure Oolite limestone rock. The Artisanal wine and beer program was singled out for originality. Total capacity
is 284. with two private rooms for groups; Outdoor Dining: Reservations required: l,unch and Dinner. Catt
(305) 907-5535 or go to Open Table.
272
00litt'
Contact
Oolite Resteurant & Ber
Manager Frank Scottolini
166l Pennsylvenia Avenue
(30s) e07-s535
Media Contact
Frank Flynn
Powerhaus
954 732 63t3
fra nk@) power- ha us.com
Page 2 of2
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273
(I
FOR IMMEDIATE REI,EASE
KOMBUCHA: THE RISING STAR ON OOLITE BAR
THE BAR AT OOLITE RESTAURANT IS HYPERACTIVE
South Beach Florida, August 20, 2014_ Kombucha has arived at the Oolite Restaurant Bar.
Kombucha, originated in Asia and migrated through Westem Europe at the turn of the last century.
Kombucha tea has a unique fermentation process creating a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast, or
SCOBY. which propagates itself. When added to sweetened black tea, the colony ferments into Kombucha
tea.
"l have been drinking Kombucha for l7 years." explained Chef Partner Kris Wessel. "My ex wife
always had a jar l'ermenting in our refrigerator. Since she is a top researcher in Biologics at the University
of Miami. I agreed with the logic."
The mother culture used to ferment the Oolite Bar Kombucha was given ro Kris Wessel by Susan
Byner. a friend, a competitive body builder and a health enthusiast. Kombucha. popular as a probiotic
food. saw 29 percent combined growth across all channels from February 201 3 to February 20 14.
according to market research firm SPINS. Or about $125 million dollars generated from scanned sales.
-Part of the Kombucha anraction is being able to brew it at home." said Wessel. "Aside from the
naturally occurring probiotic benefits, I see a trend much like Craft Beer. where Bars like Oolite make an
exceptional. healthy. revitalizing. elTervescent beverage with a range of nourishing organic acids."
While the wide mnging Kombucha benetits have been contested. a Cornell University srudy
attributes the positive anti-microbialactivity of Kombucha to its acetic acid content concluding
Kombucha may be a healthful beverage in view of its anti-microbial activity against a range of pathogenic
bacteria which may promote immunity and general well being.
So much for the science. the Oolite Bar, which is going hyperactive with a new Happy Hour.
Culinary Cocktails and a series of branded spccialty cocktails now has a set of Kombucha beverage
options. including lced Green Kombucha Tea ($7.) Kombucha Kamikaze ($ I I .) and Kombucha Shots
($7.1
)lTtt.
=:MORE:
274
(hl Trt.
"We have an 825o/o dilution on this tea." said Wessel. "but we want our guests to know that there
could be adverse effects with anyone suffering from a lactic acid condition.
Tangy, effbrvescent and tasty. it's easy lo leave the debate on probiotic benefits when the beverage
is this delicious.
About Oolite
Oolite recently received 3.5 stars from the Miami Herald for Chef Partner Kris Wessel's unique. original
concept of Healthy Regional Fare inspired by the food culture and the bounty of producr in the region ol'
Florida. the American South. the Caribbean and South America. Created as a healthy based cuisine. the entire
menu is gluten free and protein specific. Wessel was nominated for Best Chel'South (2010) by the James Beard
Foundation. Oolite's kitchen is diverse in technique using modern and time tested approaches to production
including slow cooking. poaching. steaming. smoking. grilling. dehydrating and preserving. The seasonal menu
allows for a continual creative approach while always identifuing with locals on favorite food use and recipes.
Destined to become an icon and housed in a Frank Gehry building, Oolite is just two sreps off Lincoln Road.
adjacent to the Convention Center and the Fillmore 'l"heater. Oolite's Craftsman interior design references mid
century American with lush wood hand crafted tables and wainscoting. glass and pure Oolite limestone rock.
The Artisanal wine and beer program was singled out lor originalitv. Total capacity is 2E4, with tu,o private
rooms for groupsl Outdoor Dining; Reservations required: Lunch and Dinner. Call (305) 907-5535 or go to
Open Table.
ffi
Oolite Restaurent & Bar
Frank Scottolini
Dining Room Manager
305 907 5535
fren k@oolilerests u ra n t.com
Media Contact
Frank Flynn
Powerhaus
954 732 63t3
frr n kf4) power- h a us.co m
Page 2 of2
364 words in Release
607 words totel
275
u
FOR INFORMATION AND RELEASE
OOLITE RESTAURANT & BAR
BOILERPLATE MESSAGING
Florida Regionel Cooking
South Beach Florida, August 2014
About Oolite
Oolite recently received 3.5 stars from the Miami Herald for Chef Partner Kris Wessel's unique, original
concept of Healthy Regional Fare inspired by the fiood culture and the bounty of product in the region of
Florida. the American South, the Caribbean and South America. Created as a healthy based cuisine. the entire
menu is gluten free and protein specific. Wessel was nominated for Best Chef South (2010) by the James Beard
Foundation. Oolite's kitchen is diverse in technique using modern and time tested approaches to production
including slow cooking. poaching" steaming, smoking. grilling, dehydrating and preserving. The seasonal menu
allows for a continual crcative approach while always identiling with locals on favorite fiood use and recipes.
Destined to become an icon and housed in a Frank Gehry building. Oolite is just two steps off l,incoln Road.
adjacent to the Convention Center and the Fillmore Theater. Oolite's Craftsman interior design ref'erences mid
century American with lush wood hand crafted tables and wainscoting. glass and pure Oolite limestone rock.
The Artisanal wine and beer program was singled out for originalitv. Total capacity is 284. with two private
rooms for groups: Outdoor Dining; Reservations required: Lunch and Dinner. Call (305) 907-5535 or Bo to
Open Table.
iliIt,'
###
Oolite Restaurant & Bar
Frenk Scottolini
Dining Room Manager
305 907 5535
frank@ooliteresta u ranl.com
Medir Contect
Fmnk Flynn
Powerhaus
954 732 63t3
frenk@power-haus.com
Page2 ol2
192 words in Boilerplate
231 words totel
276
(I.rlitt.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KRIS WESSEL R.ECEIVES ].5 STARS FOR OOLITE RESTAURANT & BAR
RUN DON'T WALK TO OOLITE
Florida Regional Cooking ls Prriscd by Miami Herald
South Beach Florida, August 1,2014_ Kris Wessel received a glowing 3.5 star review from the
Miami Herald today providing absolute crtdihility to the James Beard nominated chet's complex and
ambitious South Beach project.
Oolite (pronounced ooo-light) Restaurant & Bar. is located just two steps off Lincoln Road at l66l
Pennsylvania Avenue. and adjacent to the Miami Beach Convention Center. is named for lhe Florida
bedrock. limestone and coral rock foundation that composes the bedrock of Florida.
"At Kris We$el's new Oolite, steps offMiami Beach's Lincoln Road," writes Miami Herald Food
Critic Evan Benn. "succulenl glistening slices of roasted duck combine with Florida oranges and tamarind in
a sweet-sour flourish that's /'Miami in the hest possible way. Oolite's commitment to gluten-free
ingredients cooked witb regionrl flavors does not limit its ability to impress."
The expansive 200 seat space. 60 person Bar and two Private Dining rooms has a diverse set of
dining options and experiences. but all are steeped in the healthy concept.
"This is the evolution in food composition." explained Wessel, "Oolite. is a natural progression of
where food choices ar€ trending. Oolite delivers a healthy. gluten free. processed fcrods free concept on a
local, favorite restaurant platform."
Wessel fans arc relieved however with the fact that within the healthy framework Wessel has found
room to continue with his signature dishes including BBQ shrimp. gumbo and rabbit crepes. The latter
cooked as his fait accompli for the win on Chopped.
"This is a thoughtful commitment." Wessel added. "l look at my beautiful daughters and I only want
them to eat the finest healthiest ingredients."
277
(I )lTtr
About Oolite
Oolite recently received J.5 stars from the Miami Herald for Chef Partner Kris Wessel's unique. original
concept of Healthy Regional Fare inspircd by the Iood culture and the bounty of product in the region of
Florida. the American South, the Caribbean and South America. Created as a healthy based cuisine. the entire
menu is gluten free and protein specific. Oolite's kitchen is diverse in technique using modern and tinre tested
approaches to production including slow cooking, poaching. steaming, smoking. grilling. dehydrating and
preserving. The seasonal menu allows for a continual creative approach while always identi$ing wirh locals on
favorite food use and recipes. Destined to become an icon and housed in a Frank Gehry building. Oolite is just
two steps off Lincoln Road. adjacent to the Convention Center and the Fillmore Theater. Oolite's Craftsman
interior design references mid century American with lush wood hand crafted tables and wainscoting. glass and
pure Oolite limestone rock. The Artisanal wine and beer program was singled out for originality. Total capacity
is 284, with two private rooms for groups; Outdoor Dining: Reservations required: Lunch and Dinner. Call
(305) 907-5535 or go to Open Table.
ffi
Contact
Oolite Restaurant & Bar
Manager Frank Scottolini
166l Pennsylvenia Avenue
(30s) 907-s535
Medie Contect
Frank Flynn
Powerheus
954 732 63t3
frank@power-haus.com
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