Before the end of the year, Major Food Group (MFG) will debut the impossibly glamorous Chateau ZZ’s in a historic Miami estate steeped in significance and allure. Here, MFG will introduce the acclaimed company’s first-ever foray into Mexican cuisine. Hidden in plain sight in the heart of Brickell, this two-floor architectural marvel, originally constructed as a private residence in 1931 by legendary architect Martin L. Hampton, is the only known French chateau in the city and was designated a historically protected building in 1983. Now MFG, in collaboration with the visionary Ken Fulk, Inc., have meticulously restored the estate to its former splendor.
The first level of the reimagined manor features MFG’s first-ever Mexican concept—a glitzy restaurant with impeccable cuisine, an extensive collection of the rarest tequilas, a stunning solarium, a vibrant bar and lounge, and idyllic outdoor gardens. The second level of Chateau ZZ’s, meanwhile, is strictly private and available exclusively to members of ZZ’s Club. At Chateau ZZ’s, tuxedo-clad service captains will orchestrate a journey through iconic Mexicans dishes; features include a table-side guacamole presentation, Sweet Corn Elote, Lobster Aguachile Verde, Ribeye Pastor, and so much more, all presented with MFG’s famed sense of flair.
This endeavor not only signifies the group's first foray into a vast and rich culinary realm but also marks the unveiling of the estate to the public. Paying homage to the address' rich history, Chateau ZZ's stands as a testament to Major Food Group's commitment to revitalizing and preserving historic landmarks.
Originally built in 1931, the property, referred to as “Château Petit Douy,” was designed to resemble the Priory in Saint Julian, France and reflects the period revival style of architecture common during the first half of the twentieth century. Located in what was then known as the Millionaires’ Row neighborhood, the home remains as one of the few historic mansions left on Brickell Avenue. The property gained its historic designation status in 1983. The property was acquired by Ytech, led by Yamal Yidios, in 2023 before undergoing a recently completed renovation and restoration.
Founded by Jeff Zalaznick, Mario Carbone, and Rich Torrisi, MFG has made a substantial commitment to South Florida over the last three years, moving their headquarters to the area and building an array of businesses that have enriched several neighborhoods and created more than 700 jobs to date. In the span of a decade, MFG has grown into one of the most acclaimed hospitality groups in the world. They have pioneered a celebratory style of dining at such iconic restaurants as CARBONE and The Grill, forged groundbreaking partnerships with leading designers and luxury brands, and opened The Ludlow Hotel in Manhattan and The Newbury Boston.
Since 2020, the company has expanded into several markets, from South Florida to Paris, while exploring new ventures like the private membership venue ZZ’s Club in Miami and The Crown Club at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. In addition to building renowned restaurants, MFG is proud of its support of various social causes and its lasting partnership with the Robin Hood Foundation, one of New York City’s most important forces in the fight against poverty. To date, MFG has been awarded a total of 18 stars from The New York Times and three from the Michelin Guide. MFG’s businesses are located in New York City, Miami, Boston, Las Vegas, Hong Kong, Paris, and Tel Aviv. The concepts include CARBONE, Sadelle’s, The Grill, ZZ’s Club, Dirty French, Parm, Contessa, and The Lobster Club. In September 2023 Boucher Brothers and Major Food Group were named by voters as the new stewards of one of the most stunning and historic beachfront properties on the globe, 1 Ocean Drive. Their vision for the address, designed by Kobi Karp, will come to life in 2026 at the site that has been operated as Nikki Beach since 1985.
Jeff Zalaznick, Mario Carbone and Rich Torisi