Ancient Methods, Fresh Perspective: A Taste of Chef Michael Solomonov's Soulful Vision for Aviv

This fall, 1 Hotel South Beach will welcome home Aviv, a dynamic new dining experience by acclaimed Israeli-born chef Michael Solomonov and renowned restaurateur Steve Cook— the founders of the five-time James Beard Award-winning hospitality group CookNSolo. With over 16 years of experience exploring culinary traditions around the world, they bring their expertise and affinity for Israeli flavors, culture, and techniques to Miami’s vibrant atmosphere.

Aviv, meaning “Spring” in Hebrew, honors the cultural capital of Tel Aviv and the invigoration of springtime, both of which resonate beautifully with Miami’s infinite energy. The restaurant will blend ancient charcoal cooking methods, mezze plates, easy-drinking cocktails, an impressive wine list, and a captivating aura that underscores the similarities between Miami and Tel Aviv. 

Chef Michael is most excited to craft innovative, bold, and soulful dishes that honor his roots, celebrate local farmers and producers, and excite the senses like never before. We chatted with him to explore his globally-inspired culinary philosophy, passion for Israeli food, and dedication to sustainability—all of which make him the best chef to bring Aviv to life.

COOKING UP CONVERSATION WITH CHEF MIKE SOLOMONOV

Michael, your culinary journey has been nothing short of inspiring. How does Aviv reflect your personal evolution as a chef and the influences that have shaped your culinary philosophy?

Thank you so much. This restaurant will essentially be a culmination of sixteen years Steve and I have explored Israel’s food culture which contains dozens of different gastronomies. Our half dozen unique restaurants currently in our portfolio each speak to Israeli food in their own way; Aviv will carry on this tradition of sharing the endlessly vibrant cuisine of Israel. At Aviv, we’re looking to push the envelope in providing an experience full of soul.

Sustainability and sourcing locally have become increasingly important in the culinary world, especially with 1 Hotels. How do you integrate these principles into your cooking at Aviv and your other restaurants?

With a cuisine as vegetable-packed as Israel’s, we try to source locally as much as we can. In Philly, we’ve had relationships with farmers and local producers for as long as we’ve been in business, and we expect to carry on that tradition at Aviv. We’re currently playing around with some local Miami flour for the Aviv bread program, which will be a cornerstone of our menu.  

Are you excited to explore any particular culinary themes or influences with this new restaurant?

I’m excited to push the boundaries while exploring what happens when you combine influences of our restaurants Zahav and Laser Wolf, with the spirit of Miami. This restaurant will have a big charcoal grill and exclusive new offerings like our Saluf bread program. There’s nothing like fresh bread with a little za’atar or other spices hitting the table at the top of a meal.

We’re thrilled that 1 Hotels is finally partnering with CookNSolo. What excites you most about this partnership and Miami?

After 20 years of being business partners, Steve and I have a real idea of what makes a good partnership and have always prioritized working with partners who share our values and have the expertise and passion to pull it off. And that’s why we’re doing Aviv with the exceptional team at the 1 Hotel South Beach. 

What characteristics of Miami will make this restaurant stand out from other CookNSolo offerings?

Miami has an everlasting sense of vibrancy because of the incredible, diverse people that make up the city. It’s similar to Tel Aviv in that way, making it the ideal home for this restaurant. The last ten-plus years of evolution have been exhilarating to watch, and we are grateful to be a part of it.

EXPLORE THE EVOLUTION OF AVIV

If you want to be the first to hear about official opening dates, menu developments, and event announcements, we invite you to sign up for email updates at Aviv or follow us on Instagram at @aviv.southbeach.