RECOVECO DAY IN SOUTH MIAMI
The city commission proclaimed October 7, 2025 as “RECOVECO DAY” in South Miami, in recognition of the outstanding success chef owners Maria Teresa Galina and Nicolas Martinesz have earned in the first year of opening their restaurant. Culinary accolades include Bon Appetit naming them one of the 20 Best New Restaurants of 2025, selected for the cover photo and outstanding write-up commenting that the chefs “serve only what excited them most,” entry into MICHELLIN Guide Restaurants, noting “plenty of personality in this small space,” (Recoveco means “nook”) and Food & Wine Restaurant Issue 2025 as one of the 89 most essential places to ear in America – only three are in Florida!
RECOVECO’s Chef-owners Maria Teresa Galina & Nicolas Martinez and staff with the city commission receiving the South Miami proclamation.
At the restaurant, Maria Teresa and Nic pose with a copy of Bon Appetit.
We are all proud of them for the honors they bring to their restaurant and the growing fine dining scene in SOMI.
AVALON CELEBRATES ITS OPENING
Avalon Bay Communities South Miami location celebrated its opening on November 12, 2025. Senior Development VP Mark Schreiber greeted the dignitaries and guests at the VIP reception. The architects, builders, installers, landscapers and all who contributed to the completion of the project were treated to evening cocktails and food accoutrements.
Mark Schreiber acknowledges the various companies and personnel in bringing Avalon Bay South Miami to fruition.
South Miami Mayor Javier Fernandez addressing the guests.
SOMIonline magazine will be continuing its many years coverage of the site plan and development of the project as the Fresh Market opens shortly.
PADEL CENTER ON GARAGE ROOFTOP
As we go to press, the South Miami City Commission on December 2, 2025 is voting to adopt a proposal to have padel courts on the rooftop of the municipal garage.
In his memo to the commission, the city manager “Chip” Iglesias noted: “The SoMi Padel Center proposal offers clear and measurable benefits to the public by introducing a high-quality recreational facility that promotes health, community engagement, and local economic growth. The center will provide year-round access to a modern padel complex for residents and visitors, hosting clinics, leagues, and youth programs.”
SoMi Padel Center LLC, a subsidiary of van Veggel Ventures LLC, brings extensive international experience and demonstrated operational capacity to successfully execute the project. Van Veggel Ventures manages a global portfolio of racket clubs, over 100 youth sports academies, and various residential and commercial developments, as well as hospitality operations.
In commenting to SOMI Magazine, principal Renato van Veggel said: “We’re excited to bring one of the fastest-growing sports in the world to South Miami. Our mission has always been to introduce innovation while promoting health, wellness, and social interaction. Activating the South Miami Municipal Garage is a unique opportunity to create a vibrant community hub.”
The manager further noted that “the project is well aligned with South Miami’s broader infrastructure and redevelopment objectives. By repurposing the rooftop of the existing Municipal Garage, it enhances a city-owned asset without increasing parking demand or disrupting traffic flow. The design emphasizes sustainability and compatibility with the surrounding environment through modular construction, noise reduction, and energy-efficient lighting systems. Overall, the SoMi Padel Center aligns with regional goals for sustainable urban development, public-private collaboration, and expanded recreational opportunities, offering a model for how the city can activate existing infrastructure to enhance community amenities.”
The plan calls for five courts and amenity areas on the rooftop.
In an upcoming issue SOMIonline Magazine will be discussing the differences between the two favorites, pickleball and padel and following the developments as the SoMi Padel Center comes online.