In an exclusive interview for our magazine, Philippe—a leading figure in the world of hospitality—shares how he brought his Parisian roots to Miami and became part of the movement transforming the city into a world-class culinary destination. An intimate conversation about luxury, innovation, and the future of hospitality in a city that never stops reinventing itself.

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1. From Paris to Miami: Philippe, you come from one of the most iconic cities in the world when it comes to gastronomy and hospitality. What brought you to Miami, and what made you fall in love with this city?

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• Paris will always be my first love—it’s the city where I grew up, where food and hospitality are an art form, and where every detail matters. But when I first arrived in Miami, I was struck by a completely different yet equally inspiring energy. The vibrant mix of cultures, the endless sunshine, and the ocean’s allure created a city that embraces innovation while honoring tradition. I saw an opportunity to bring my Parisian roots to a place that was evolving rapidly, where people were craving something both unique and authentic. What truly made me fall in love with Miami is its diversity, its openness to new ideas, and, most of all, its people.

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2. Inspiration and beginnings: When did you discover your passion for the world of hospitality? Was there a key moment in your life that marked the beginning of this journey?

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• My passion for hospitality was ignited at a young age, growing up in Paris, where food and service are woven into the fabric of everyday life. I was always captivated by the way a perfectly crafted dish or a heartfelt welcome could create unforgettable moments.

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3. Cultural differences: Having worked in two very different cities like Paris and Miami, how would you describe the evolution of the hospitality industry in both? In what ways do you think Miami stands out compared to the Parisian scene?

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• Paris is the epitome of tradition when it comes to hospitality, as I mentioned previously, service is an art form, and there’s a deep respect for culinary heritage. Everything is about precision, elegance, and maintaining the highest standards. Miami, on the other hand, is a city in constant evolution, blending cultures and influences from all over the world. The hospitality industry here is more dynamic and more experimental. It embraces change and reinvention in a way that Paris doesn’t. What makes Miami stand out is its energy and diversity. People here are adventurous with their dining choices and willing to try new flavors and concepts. Also, the outdoor lifestyle and stunning waterfront settings create a unique atmosphere. Miami is establishing itself as a major culinary destination, and I love being a part of that journey.

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4. Luxury as an experience: In a world where exclusivity goes beyond food and service, how do you define the true essence of luxury in hospitality?

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• Luxury in hospitality is no longer just about expensive ingredients or beautiful surroundings, it’s about creating an experience that feels personal, seamless, and unforgettable. Exclusivity today is about authenticity and personalization. Guests want more than just high-end service; they want a story, a connection, something that resonates with them on a deeper level. Whether in Paris or Miami, the essence of luxury is about crafting moments that leave a lasting impression, where every interaction feels effortless yet extraordinary. 

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Shangri-La Cocktail

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5. Brand building: You have successfully positioned yourself in the industry with a unique concept. What has been the key to creating unforgettable experiences and maintaining a high standard of excellence in your restaurants?

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• The key to building a strong brand in hospitality is consistency, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From day one, I have focused on creating experiences that go beyond just food and service, it’s about emotion, atmosphere, and storytelling. Attention to detail is everything; Whether it’s the way a guest is greeted, the presentation of a dish, or the music playing in the background, every element must work together to create a seamless and memorable moment. But more importantly, it’s about passion. When you love what you do, that energy is contagious, it reflects in the way the team operates, in the quality of every dish, and in the way guests feel when they step into the restaurant.

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Innovation is also key since the industry is constantly evolving, staying ahead means always being willing to adapt, refine, and surprise guests with something new while staying true to the brand’s identity. Ultimately, the goal is to create a place people don’t just visit but return to, time and time again because they know they will always have an exceptional experience.

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6. Vision for the future: Miami is undergoing a major transformation, solidifying itself as a top-tier destination for dining and entertainment. How do you see the future of hospitality in the city in the coming years?

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• Miami is at a fascinating turning point as it has evolved from a party destination to a true culinary and hospitality powerhouse. The future of hospitality here is all about refinement, innovation, and personalization. We are seeing a wave of world-class chefs, luxury brands, and unique concepts setting roots in the city, and that trend will only continue. In the coming years, I believe hospitality in Miami will focus even more on immersive experiences where dining is not just about food but about storytelling, ambiance, and emotions. Guests will crave exclusivity, whether through intimate dining experiences, bespoke service, or tailored culinary journeys that go beyond the traditional restaurant model. Sustainability and local sourcing will also play a bigger role. As Miami grows, so does the demand for high-quality, fresh ingredients with a focus on responsible sourcing. The connection between nature, gastronomy, and hospitality will become stronger, blending luxury with consciousness.

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7. Challenges and opportunities: What do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities for the industry in Miami?

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• Miami’s hospitality industry is thriving, bringing both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is maintaining impeccable standards in a fast-paced, ever-evolving market. As top-tier restaurants and luxury hospitality brands continue to enter the scene, competition grows fiercer, making consistency in service, quality, and guest experience more crucial than ever. Miami’s global appeal draws a constant influx of visitors seeking fresh, dynamic experiences. The city’s rich cultural diversity provides a unique opportunity to create innovative concepts that blend different cuisines and influences. As Miami cements its status as a world-class dining destination, the future of hospitality lies in embracing sustainability, technology, and personalized service. The key to long-term success is adapting to these changes while staying true to what makes hospitality exceptional—authenticity, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Those who evolve while delivering unforgettable experiences will be at the forefront of Miami’s exciting future.