Just the Tip Podcast by F+B Miami

Felix at F+B Miami
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Just the Tip—the podcast that says what everyone’s thinking but no one’s saying. Hosted by Felix from @fandbmiami, this show brings you unfiltered conversations with the real players behind Miami’s food, hospitality, and real estate scene. No fluff, no corporate speak—just the truth about what it takes to survive (and thrive) in one of the country’s fastest-moving markets. From lease nightmares to hot openings and the politics no one wants to touch, Just the Tip pulls back the curtain with humor, honesty, and just the right amount of spice.

  1. Jul 9

    Alvaro Perez Miranda on Michelin Dining, Japanese Hospitality & Miami's Food Evolution

    What does it really take to create one of Miami's most respected Japanese dining experiences? In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky sits down with chef, restaurateur, and creative visionary Alvaro Perez Miranda, the founder behind acclaimed concepts including Ogawa, Midori Hayakawa, and Wabi Sabi. Born in Venezuela and deeply influenced by years spent living and studying in Japan, Alvaro shares how art, culture, and craftsmanship became the foundation of his approach to hospitality. This isn't just a conversation about sushi. It's about the Japanese philosophy of omotenashi—anticipating a guest's needs before they ask—the relentless pursuit of excellence, and why the smallest details often create the most unforgettable dining experiences. Felix and Alvaro explore Miami's evolution into a world-class culinary destination, the growing appreciation for authentic Japanese cuisine, and what it takes to build restaurants that earn the respect of both diners and the Michelin Guide. Whether you're a chef, restaurateur, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about exceptional dining, this episode is a masterclass in hospitality, discipline, and creative vision. 🔥 In This Episode: Alvaro Perez Miranda's journey from Venezuela to Japan and MiamiThe philosophy behind Ogawa, Midori Hayakawa, and Wabi SabiHow Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) transforms the guest experienceWhy craftsmanship and attention to detail matter more than trendsBuilding Michelin-recognized dining experiences in MiamiThe evolution of Miami's Japanese restaurant sceneThe relationship between art, culture, and hospitalityWhy small restaurants often deliver the most memorable experiences 🧠 Key Insights Great hospitality begins long before the food reaches the table.Authenticity is built through discipline, not shortcuts.Exceptional restaurants obsess over the smallest details.Community and long-term relationships create lasting brands.Miami has become one of America's most exciting culinary destinations by embracing diverse cultures and craftsmanship. 🗣️ Standout Moments "Omotenashi, komakai, and sensei are the foundation of everything I do." "The restaurants I love most are small places where craftsmanship comes first." "Every restaurant has its own art." "The greatest reward is when guests become friends." 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for conversations with the chefs, restaurateurs, entrepreneurs, and operators shaping the future of hospitality. 👇 Comment below: What's the most memorable dining experience you've ever had and what made it unforgettable?

    Alvaro Perez Miranda on Michelin Dining, Japanese Hospitality & Miami's Food Evolution

  2. Jul 1

    The Business Behind Miami's Best Restaurants | Ignacio Garcia-Menocal on Grove Bay Hospitality

    What does it actually take to build one of the most successful restaurant groups in Miami? In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky sits down with Ignacio Garcia-Menocal, Co-Founder and CEO of Grove Bay Hospitality Group, the company behind some of South Florida's most successful restaurants, waterfront destinations, and chef partnerships. Before helping shape Miami's dining scene, Ignacio built his career in finance, working at Deloitte, MasterCard, and Shula's Steak Houses before making the leap into hospitality. Since then, he's helped launch and operate acclaimed concepts alongside celebrated chefs including Jeremy Ford, Giorgio Rapicavoli, and Marcus Samuelsson, while transforming destinations like Regatta Harbour into one of Miami's premier waterfront dining experiences. This conversation goes beyond restaurants. Felix and Ignacio discuss the economics of today's hospitality industry, what investors often underestimate, why partnerships matter more than ever, and how Grove Bay has built a reputation for creating restaurants that stand the test of time—not just opening-day buzz. Whether you're a restaurateur, investor, hospitality professional, or simply fascinated by the business behind Miami's restaurant boom, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the city's most influential operators. Ignacio Garcia-Menocal's journey from corporate finance to restaurant entrepreneurBuilding Grove Bay Hospitality into one of Miami's leading hospitality groupsThe philosophy behind partnering with chefs like Jeremy Ford and Giorgio RapicavoliThe evolution of Coconut Grove and the transformation of Regatta HarbourWhy Miami's restaurant market is more competitive than everThe realities of operating Michelin-recognized restaurantsBringing chef-driven concepts to airports and nontraditional hospitality spacesLessons on leadership, partnerships, and long-term growthGreat restaurants are built through strong partnerships, not just great chefsOperational excellence is what separates lasting concepts from short-lived trendsMiami remains one of the most competitive restaurant markets in the countryHospitality success requires patience, discipline, and strategic executionStaying true to your core values matters most when business gets difficult"If somebody makes the time for you, you should always make the time for them." "The Miami culinary scene is up there with anyone in the world." "Running a Michelin restaurant is a constant challenge." "You need to know what you're getting yourself into before opening a restaurant." Ignacio Garcia-Menocal, Grove Bay Hospitality, Miami restaurants, Coconut Grove restaurants, Regatta Harbour, Jeremy Ford, Giorgio Rapicavoli, Michelin restaurants Miami, restaurant business, hospitality leadership, restaurant operations, Felix Bendersky, Just the Tip Podcast 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for conversations with the chefs, entrepreneurs, investors, and operators building the future of hospitality in Miami and beyond. 👇 Comment below: What's more important for a restaurant's success—a great chef or a great operator? 🔥 In This Episode:🧠 Key Insights for Hospitality Leaders🗣️ Standout Moments🔎 SEO / AI Search Keywords

    The Business Behind Miami's Best Restaurants | Ignacio Garcia-Menocal on Grove Bay Hospitality

  3. Jun 25

    Miami Nightlife to Sake Innovation | Buzzy Sklar on Hospitality, Entrepreneurship & Reinvention

    Few people have had a front-row seat to Miami's evolution quite like Buzzy Sklar. In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky sits down with one of Miami Beach's most accomplished entrepreneurs to discuss a career that spans nightlife, restaurants, spirits, and some of the city's most iconic hospitality concepts. From growing up in Brooklyn and starting in the garment business to building beloved Miami institutions like Burger & Beer Joint and Hank & Harry's, Buzzy has spent decades identifying trends before they happen and creating businesses around them. But what makes this conversation fascinating is how often he's reinvented himself. Today, Buzzy is focused on the future of beverage innovation through ventures like Oishi Sake and new matcha-based spirits, betting on wellness trends, changing consumer habits, and the next generation of hospitality. This episode is packed with lessons on entrepreneurship, branding, resilience, and how to stay relevant through decades of changing markets. Whether you're building a restaurant, launching a beverage brand, or simply interested in the business behind Miami's hospitality scene, there's something here for you. 🔥 In This Episode: Buzzy Sklar's journey from Brooklyn to Miami Beach entrepreneurBuilding iconic concepts like Burger & Beer Joint and Hank & Harry'sHow Miami's nightlife and restaurant scene has evolved over the decadesLessons learned from operating across multiple industriesThe future of sake, wellness beverages, and consumer drinking habitsWhy adaptability is one of the most valuable entrepreneurial skillsThe rise of matcha-based spirits and alternative alcohol productsHow to identify trends before they become mainstream 🧠 Key Insights for Entrepreneurs Great operators know when to pivot and when to stay the courseConsumer behavior is constantly evolving—and businesses must evolve with itBrand-building matters more than ever in crowded marketsThe best opportunities often emerge during periods of disruptionLong-term success comes from resilience, adaptability, and execution 🗣️ Standout Moments "For me, it's always a business." "Everyone has a plan until they get punched out." "It's been a bit of a roller coaster life." "You either love it, or you don't." 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for conversations with the entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, investors, and operators shaping Miami's hospitality industry. 👇 Comment below: What's the next big trend in food and beverage—wellness drinks, mocktails, sake, or something else?

    Miami Nightlife to Sake Innovation | Buzzy Sklar on Hospitality, Entrepreneurship & Reinvention

  4. Jun 17

    From Hip-Hop to Dante’s HiFi | Rich Medina on Music, Culture & the Art of Authenticity

    Before playlists, algorithms, and social media took over music discovery, there were DJs like Rich Medina. In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky sits down with legendary DJ, producer, educator, and cultural curator Rich Medina for a conversation that goes far beyond music. From growing up in New Jersey surrounded by church music and soul records to becoming one of the most respected DJs in the world, Rich shares the experiences that shaped his career and his philosophy on creativity, culture, and community. Known for iconic parties like The Remedy in Philadelphia and Open with Q-Tip in New York, Rich has spent decades at the center of hip-hop, soul, jazz, funk, and nightlife culture. Today, he's helping shape Miami's music scene through Dante’s HiFi, one of the most celebrated listening bars in the country. This episode explores the evolution of nightlife, the power of analog music, and why authentic cultural experiences matter more than ever in an increasingly commercialized world. Whether you're a music lover, entrepreneur, creative, or hospitality professional, this conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and hard-earned perspective. 🔥 In This Episode: Rich Medina's journey from New Jersey to international DJ iconHow church, soul music, and FM radio shaped his musical identityFrom Cornell basketball and Procter & Gamble to full-time DJingThe golden era of New York nightlife and underground cultureWorking alongside legends like Q-Tip, Jill Scott, and King BrittThe story behind Dante’s Hi-Fi and Miami's listening bar movementVinyl, streaming, and the changing way people experience musicWhy culture and community matter more than trends🧠 Key Insights Successful people don't wait for perfect decisions—they commit and adaptGreat venues are built around community, not hypeMusic is one of the most powerful forms of cultural storytellingTechnology changes access, but authenticity never goes out of styleThe best experiences happen when people are fully present 🗣️ Standout Moments "Successful people don't make the right decisions. They make decisions." "New York is to music what Hollywood is to film." "Put your phone down and enjoy yourself." "We're engaged in being one of one." 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for conversations with the artists, entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and cultural leaders shaping Miami and beyond 👇 Comment below: What's one album you think everyone should listen to from start to finish at least once?

    From Hip-Hop to Dante’s HiFi | Rich Medina on Music, Culture & the Art of Authenticity

  5. Jun 10

    Norman Van Aken on Fusion Cuisine, The Mango Gang & Miami's Rise

    Before Miami became one of the most exciting food cities in America, there was Norman Van Aken. In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky of F+B Hospitality Brokerage sits down with one of the most influential chefs in modern American cuisine. Often credited with introducing the term "fusion cuisine" and helping define what became known as New World Cuisine, Norman shares the stories, philosophies, and experiences that shaped his legendary career. From his early days in Key West to opening iconic restaurants like Norman's in Coral Gables, Norman reflects on the evolution of Miami's dining scene and the cultural influences that transformed South Florida into a global culinary destination. This conversation is part history lesson, part masterclass. Norman takes us behind the scenes of the movement that changed American dining, including the rise of the legendary Mango Gang—the group of pioneering chefs who helped put Miami on the culinary map long before Michelin stars and national recognition arrived.Whether you're a chef, restaurateur, food lover, or hospitality professional, this episode offers a rare look inside the mind of one of the industry's true visionaries. 🔥 In This Episode: How Norman Van Aken helped create the concept of fusion cuisine The origins of New World CuisineMiami's restaurant scene in the 1980s and 1990s The story of the legendary Mango Gang Opening and building iconic restaurants in South Florida Lessons learned from mentors like Jacques Pépin and Charlie Trotter The role of culture, travel, and storytelling in great cooking Why mentorship is essential to the future of hospitality 🧠 Key Insights for Chefs & Restaurateurs Great cuisine is built through cultural exchange and curiosityInnovation comes from respecting tradition while pushing boundaries Mentorship can shape an entire generation of culinary talent Authentic stories create memorable dining experiencesMiami's food scene was built by risk-takers willing to challenge convention 🗣️ Standout Moments "Fusion to me happens everywhere and has happened everywhere all over." "I wanted to find the artistic place where I could express myself emotionally and culturally." "Every chef who wants to be great should own that cookbook." 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for conversations with the chefs, restaurateurs, operators, and visionaries who built—and continue to shape—Miami's hospitality scene. 👇 Comment below: What's the most influential restaurant meal you've ever had?

    Norman Van Aken on Fusion Cuisine, The Mango Gang & Miami's Rise

  6. Jun 3

    How Michael Beltran Built a Michelin-Star Restaurant in Miami | Ariete, Chug's & the Future of Hospitality

    Miami's restaurant scene is booming. But behind the headlines, Michelin stars, and flashy openings is a much harder reality: rising rents, increased competition, influencer culture, and the challenge of staying authentic in a city that's changing fast. In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky of F+B Hospitality Brokerage sits down with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Michael Beltran, the culinary force behind Ariete, Chug's Diner, and one of Miami's most respected hospitality groups. Born and raised in Miami, Michael shares his journey from working in chain restaurants to building a Michelin-starred restaurant and becoming one of the city's most influential culinary voices. This conversation dives deep into what it really takes to survive—and thrive—in today's restaurant industry. From preserving Miami's unique culture to navigating skyrocketing costs and social media-driven dining trends, Michael offers a candid look at the opportunities and challenges facing local operators today. Whether you're a restaurateur, entrepreneur, hospitality professional, or simply someone who loves Miami's food scene, this episode is packed with insight. 🔥 In This Episode: Michael Beltran's journey from local cook to Michelin-starred chefThe story behind Ariete and Chug's DinerWhy Miami's restaurant scene is at a critical turning pointThe impact of rising rents and outside restaurant groupsBuilding community-driven restaurants that locals supportThe role of influencers and social media in modern diningHow Michael approaches growth, partnerships, and leadershipPreserving Miami's culinary identity in a rapidly changing city 🧠 Key Insights for Restaurant Owners & Entrepreneurs Authenticity remains one of the most valuable assets in hospitalityCommunity support can make or break a restaurantGreat operators adapt without losing their identitySocial media is powerful—but it can't replace great food and serviceLong-term success comes from relationships, consistency, and culture 🗣️ Standout Quotes "Be stubborn. Be okay with failing, but stay true to who you really are." "Miami is a dog-eat-dog city, but it's also rich with culture and texture." "Why can't we get back to appreciating food instead of focusing solely on paid content?" 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for unfiltered conversations with the chefs, operators, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of Miami hospitality. 👇 Comment below: What's the biggest challenge facing Miami restaurants today—rising costs, competition, or social media?

    How Michael Beltran Built a Michelin-Star Restaurant in Miami | Ariete, Chug's & the Future of Hospitality

  7. May 27

    From Ecuador to Michelin Recognition in Miami | Chef Alejandra Espinoza on Cotoa & Authentic Hospitality

    What does it actually take to introduce an entirely different cuisine to Miami… and make people care? In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky of F+B Hospitality Brokerage sits down with Ecuadorian chef and restaurateur Alejandra Espinoza, the founder behind Cotoa Miami and Somos in Quito, to talk about resilience, authenticity, and building one of Miami’s most respected emerging culinary concepts. Alejandra’s story spans continents. From Ecuador to Michelin-starred kitchens in France, to rebuilding and growing her vision in Miami, she shares the reality behind becoming a chef and operator in one of the most competitive hospitality cities in the country. This conversation goes far beyond food. It’s about culture, discipline, sustainability, leadership, and the challenge of staying true to your roots while adapting to a constantly evolving restaurant industry. Alejandra breaks down how she introduced Ecuadorian cuisine to American diners, the importance of training and sourcing, and why authentic hospitality will always outlast hype. 🔥 In This Episode: Alejandra Espinoza’s journey from Ecuador to Miami’s culinary sceneWorking in Michelin-starred kitchens in FranceThe story behind Cotoa Miami and Somos QuitoBringing authentic Ecuadorian cuisine to the U.S. marketWhy sustainability and sourcing matter in modern hospitalityThe importance of team culture and operational disciplineLessons from surviving COVID as a restaurant operatorWhy authenticity beats trend-driven dining long-term 🧠 Key Insights for Restaurateurs & Operators Great hospitality starts with consistency and trainingAuthentic cultural concepts can succeed in Miami when executed properlySustainability is becoming a core part of restaurant operationsPersistence matters more than overnight successCommunity and word-of-mouth still drive the strongest restaurant brands 🗣️ Standout Moments “Nothing is impossible if you’re willing to open yourself to it.”“If you do things right, you go farther.”“You should be able to serve food in a paper cup and people will still come back.” 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for real conversations with the chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality leaders shaping Miami’s future. 👇 Comment below: What’s the most underrated cuisine in Miami right now?

    From Ecuador to Michelin Recognition in Miami | Chef Alejandra Espinoza on Cotoa & Authentic Hospitality

  8. May 20

    From Latin Grammy Winner to Miami Hospitality Icon | Jorge Moreno on Boho House, Music & Creativity

    Before Miami became the cultural powerhouse it is today, people like Jorge Moreno were already shaping its sound, energy, and identity. In this episode of Just the Tip, Felix Bendersky of F+B Hospitality Brokerage sits down with Grammy-nominated, Latin Grammy-winning artist Jorge Moreno to talk about the intersection of music, nightlife, creativity, and hospitality in Miami. Born into a Cuban family deeply connected to the music industry, Jorge grew up around recording studios, artists, and the creative process from an early age. That foundation led him to a successful music career — including being signed to Madonna’s Maverick Records — before eventually expanding his creative vision into hospitality concepts like Moreno’s Cuba and Boho House. But this conversation goes deeper than restaurants and nightlife. It’s about building experiences that actually feel authentic in a city constantly evolving between culture, commerce, and trend cycles. From Miami’s early Latin alternative music scene to the rise of experiential hospitality, Jorge shares lessons on creativity, partnerships, branding, and staying true to your artistic identity while building businesses that last. 🔥 In This Episode: Jorge Moreno’s journey from Miami musician to hospitality entrepreneurGrowing up in a Cuban family immersed in the record businessBeing signed to Madonna’s Maverick RecordsThe rise of Miami’s Latin alternative music movementThe story behind Moreno’s Cuba and Boho HouseWhy hospitality and performance are more connected than people thinkLessons on partnerships, creativity, and building authentic brandsFuture projects blending wellness, nightlife, music, and culture🧠 Key Insights: The best hospitality concepts feel like artistic experiencesMiami’s culture was built by local creatives long before the boomAuthenticity matters more than trend-chasingNetworking opens doors — but creativity creates longevityMusic, nightlife, and hospitality are deeply interconnected industries🗣️ Standout Moments: “I see everything I do as an extension of performing.”“Networking brought me in. Creativity set the path.”“You have to stay true to yourself.” 🎧 Subscribe to Just the Tip for real conversations with the artists, restaurateurs, operators, and entrepreneurs shaping Miami culture. 👇 Comment below: What makes a hospitality concept actually feel authentic today?

    From Latin Grammy Winner to Miami Hospitality Icon | Jorge Moreno on Boho House, Music & Creativity
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About

Welcome to Just the Tip—the podcast that says what everyone’s thinking but no one’s saying. Hosted by Felix from @fandbmiami, this show brings you unfiltered conversations with the real players behind Miami’s food, hospitality, and real estate scene. No fluff, no corporate speak—just the truth about what it takes to survive (and thrive) in one of the country’s fastest-moving markets. From lease nightmares to hot openings and the politics no one wants to touch, Just the Tip pulls back the curtain with humor, honesty, and just the right amount of spice.

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