Nestled in the chic neighborhood of Sunset Harbour, renowned for its “Little New York” vibe, Miami Beach welcomes the Harbour Club—a sophisticated members-only retreat redefining elegance. Conceived by James Julius, a London native with a reputation for infusing refinement into the global club scene, the Harbour Club seamlessly marries the allure of London’s elite private dining establishments with the vibrant energy that defines Miami. Officially opening its doors on January 16, 2025, this exclusive venue sets the bar for a new era of upscale living and dining in the Magic City.

James Julius is no stranger to Miami’s luxury scene. After the success of ZZ’s Club, which he launched in collaboration with Major Food Group in the Design District, Julius turned his focus to Sunset Harbour. This time, he aimed to deliver intimacy, sophistication, and a decidedly British flair. “I envision Harbour Club as an extension of its members’ homes—a place where they can unwind, socialize, and enjoy exceptional dining in a luxurious yet welcoming setting,” Julius shared. Drawing on centuries-old inspirations from London’s private dining and social clubs, Harbour Club is an innovative space where discretion, luxury, and style converge.

Stepping into Harbour Club feels like entering a curated gallery, designed to stir imagination and conversation. While its terracotta façade gives off unassuming neighborhood charm, the interiors reveal a dazzling blend of tropical warmth and artistic grandeur, brought to life by the celebrated design firm Yodezeen. Iconic installations such as a seven-foot Damien Hirst disc, shimmering even from the outside, and a 300-pound Hajime Sorayama “Sexy Robot” sculpture in the stairwell—a nod to London’s legendary Annabel’s Club—inject daring artistic energy into the serene space.

Adding to the visual splendor are intricate design details, such as custom Orlean wallpaper, nature-inspired motifs, and sleek brass lighting. Together, these elements create a space that feels simultaneously exclusive, warm, and distinctly Miami—capturing the dual identities of tropical ease and high-end artistry. “Every piece of art here was chosen to inspire curiosity and spark meaningful interactions,” Julius explained.

At the heart of Harbour Club lies a culinary experience that promises to be just as extraordinary as its design. James Julius recruited celebrated Italian chef Michele Esposito—known for his tenure at Casa Tua in Miami and Italy’s iconic Villa Crespi—to helm the in-house restaurant, a’Riva. Offering a contemporary spin on Italian Mediterranean cuisine, a’Riva’s standout dishes include tamarind-coated lamb chops paired with vibrant chimichurri and the luscious Spaghetti alla Nerano, a basil-infused zucchini flower creation inspired by the flavors of Italy’s Campanian coast.

In an inclusive twist, a’Riva is open to public reservations, ensuring that even non-members can partake in its culinary mastery. However, for Harbour Club members, culinary exclusivity doesn’t stop there. The members-only Palm Room—a sultry, speakeasy-inspired lounge—and the Nikai Lounge, which features opulent Japanese-inspired dining, elevate the food and drink experience with intimate settings, handcrafted cocktails, and indulgent offerings like caviar-topped sushi.

Harbour Club’s exclusivity is evident in its limited memberships, with just 40 sought-after founding spots available. Signature Memberships are set at $2,500 annually plus a $5,000 initiation fee, while the rarer Lifetime Founding Membership costs $40,000. Beyond the financial commitment, Julius underscores the importance of creating a sense of belonging. “Harbour Club is about building relationships and curating a family-like atmosphere,” he articulated. Catering to full-time and part-time Miami residents, the club fosters a close-knit community for those who value both luxury and meaningful connections.

Sunset Harbour, surrounded by high-end developments and boasting a youthful vibrancy, is the perfect setting for Harbour Club’s debut. Offering a unique balance of London-inspired elegance and Miami’s dynamic vibe, Harbour Club is poised to become the city’s ultimate hub for luxury seekers.

Whether as a haven for savoring exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, mingling under a Damien Hirst masterpiece, or experiencing the exclusivity of its lush lounges, Harbour Club is more than a social venue—it’s a statement. With James Julius at the helm, this refined retreat sets a new gold standard for Miami’s elite. For those seeking tropical elegance with a cosmopolitan twist, the Harbour Club is undeniably the year’s most exciting addition to Miami’s luxury landscape.