On November 10, 2024, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens welcomed hundreds of enthusiastic guests to the grand opening of the new Vizcaya Village Café, marking a pivotal moment in the restoration of Vizcaya Village. The event was a resounding success, bringing together community members, urban agriculture enthusiasts, and local dignitaries, including Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniela Levine Cava, who led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Held on the steps of the beautifully restored Superintendent’s House, where the café is housed, the ceremony featured a warm welcome from Vizcaya Executive Director and CEO Joel Hoffman. Following Hoffman’s remarks, Vizcaya Board Chair Ken O’Keefe and board members Lynn Atkinson, Ann Walters-Pope, and Commissioner Damian Pardo shared their reflections. Reinaldo Ramos, CEO of A Joy Catering, and the Mayor also spoke, rounding out a celebratory lineup.
After the ribbon was cut by Mayor Levine Cava, attendees were invited to explore the newly restored space, a seamless blend of historical charm and modern functionality that had not been open to the public in decades. Guests admired the rustic interior with its exposed wooden beams and enjoyed the tranquil patio, shaded by lush trees and conveniently located next to Vizcaya’s new edible garden.
A Day of Engaging Activities
Beyond the ribbon cutting, the event offered a variety of interactive activities designed to bring urban agriculture to life:
- Compost 4 Life presented engaging sessions on composting, emphasizing sustainable practices for home gardens.
- Miami Seed Share distributed free seeds, inspiring attendees to start their own gardens.
- Edible South Florida handed out complimentary magazines filled with tips and stories about local food culture and gardening.
- Plant & Grow – Sowing Seeds invited participants to take part in the time-honored practice of planting seeds, symbolizing Vizcaya’s agricultural heritage.
A Celebration of Community and Heritage
Guests also explored the Vizcaya Village Farmers Market, which runs every Sunday starting at 9:30 a.m., offering fresh produce and artisanal goods. The market aligned perfectly with the café’s mission to honor Vizcaya’s agricultural past while catering to the needs of today’s community.
This event was more than just a grand opening—it was a celebration of the revitalization of Vizcaya Village. Once the heart of a working farm supporting the estate in 1916, the Village now stands as a testament to Miami’s rich history and a beacon for its sustainable future.
A Vision Realized
The opening of the Vizcaya Village Café marks a significant milestone in the ongoing restoration of Vizcaya Village. As part of its long-term vision, Vizcaya is transforming this historic space into a cultural hub offering year-round programming, enhanced green spaces, and community initiatives such as urban agriculture. To learn more about the restoration of Vizcaya Village and upcoming programs, visit the Village page and online calendar of events.
Looking Ahead
With its café now open on weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Vizcaya Village invites visitors to experience a unique blend of history, culture, and sustainability. This is only the beginning—more exciting programs and developments are on the horizon.
For those who joined us, thank you for making this event a tremendous success. If you missed it, visit us soon to discover all that Vizcaya Village has to offer.
