After a decade of serving up exceptional seafood at Prime Fish, South Florida’s renowned restaurateur Myles Chefetz announced he has struck a deal to lease the space to Charlie Levy, owner of the wildly popular Mediterranean restaurant, MOTEK. Later this year, MOTEK will debut in the South of Fifth neighborhood on the corner of Collins Avenue and 1st Street, bringing its all-day Mediterranean dining to the area.
“I’ve been a part of the South of Fifth neighborhood for nearly 30 years, and it has truly become my home. With a substantial real estate and restaurant portfolio in this area, and with the over abundance of high check average restaurants and more on the way, I sensed we lacked an approachable all-day eatery. After a great 10-year run with Prime Fish, and wanting to focus all of my attention on the Prime Corner with Prime 112, Prime Italian and Prime Hotel, it felt right to refresh the neighborhood with something new. This decision transcends financial motives as the property never went on the market. Despite receiving higher rent offers from many interested groups over the last few years, I chose to accept an under market deal because I was looking for a concept that would stand the test of time and a concept that would serve the neighborhood I call home,” said Chefetz.
MOTEK is known for its enchanting ambiance and exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is rapidly expanding its footprint across South Florida, with existing locations in Downtown, Brickell City Centre, Aventura, and Coral Gables, and two Miami Beach locations slated to open this year. MOTEK fills a unique niche in the neighborhood’s culinary scene, offering an all day dining experience in South of Fifth. Part of the draw Chefetz saw in this collaboration stems from his commitment to offering residents a dining experience unlike any other in the area and without a fine dining price point.
“It’s exciting to see Motek expand throughout Miami, and now to open one of our restaurants in such an iconic South Beach location is a really special feeling,” said Levy. “Our guests love the food and the vibe at Motek and I think it will be the perfect addition to South of Fifth. Our goal is to always become immersed in the culture of the neighborhoods we’re in, and this collaboration with Myles is a natural fit. He knows what good hospitality looks like and we’re ready to bring the Motek experience to the vibrant community.”
The inspiration behind Chefetz’s decision to bring MOTEK to Prime Fish’s space is a tale of serendipity. While out shopping for furniture at Aventura Mall, Chefetz stumbled upon MOTEK and found the restaurant bustling with guests and alive with charm and energy. He heard about the restaurant many times before but never tried it for himself. Impressed by the concept and thoughtful attention to detail, Chefetz immediately saw its potential to thrive in the South of Fifth neighborhood and reached out to Charlie Levy, MOTEK’s co-founder, to set up a meeting. Levy, a resident of South of Fifth himself, was familiar with the Prime Fish space and, after a walkthrough with Chefetz, the two shook hands and a deal was made.
“When I experienced Motek, it struck me as the perfect match for this space. Upon reaching out to the owner, we found a beautiful synergy for both the neighborhood and this particular location, my ‘trophy location’—the same spot where Chef Michael Schwartz and I planted our roots in Miami in 1995 with my first-ever restaurant in the city, NEMO. By welcoming Motek with open arms and a lower rent, I’m investing
in longevity—not just for my portfolio, but for the South of Fifth community that I am so proud to be a part of,” added Chefetz.
With MOTEK’s diverse menu offerings, the concept aims to cater to all tastes and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Levy and Chefetz look forward to seeing the neighborhood embrace this exciting addition to South of Fifth’s culinary landscape. MOTEK will debut later this year at 100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139.
