Major Mixed-Use Project In North Bay Village Gets Green Light

Jesta Group has obtained approval from the North Bay Village Commission to develop a major mixed-use project on the site of the current Shuckers Waterfront Grill and Best Western hotel. Jesta, a global real estate firm with significant holdings in South Florida, purchased the Shuckers/Best Western site seven years ago and has been operating it ever since.

The Village Commission voted unanimously January 10 to approve Jesta’s proposal for the 2.31-acre site at 1819 to 1855 79^th Street. Jesta’s project is being designed by renowned architect Kobi Karp and will consist of 30 stories, including 345 residential units, 273 hotel rooms, 7,500-square-feet of meeting space, three waterfront restaurants with expansive views (including a refreshed Shuckers restaurant in the same location), and 677 parking spaces. It will also include 18 workforce housing units and a 62-foot-wide public view corridor on its western boundary.

The North Bay Village project is one of several major properties owned by Jesta in South Florida, including the world-renowned Clevelander Hotel, Essex House Hotel, and Stiles Hotel in South Beach.

Anthony O’Brien, Senior Managing Director of Jesta, says the North Bay Village project sends a strong signal about Jesta’s commitment to South Florida.

“We are incredibly bullish on South Florida,” said O’Brien. “As we develop this landmark project we will continue to grow our portfolio of world class assets in this tremendous market.”

Alexander Tachmes, a Partner with Shutts & Bowen’s Real Estate Practice Group and the lead attorney representing Jesta in securing the North Bay Village project’s approvals, sees the project as infusing exciting energy into North Bay Village.

“This is going to be a unique project that will be a major attraction for residents as well as visitors,” Tachmes said. “North Bay Village is on the rise, and we are tremendously excited to be a part of its growth.”