The historic Cameo Theatre in South Beach, a landmark in the region, could be set for a reopening under the direction of Romain Zago, a well-known nightlife operator. Zago, who made a name for himself by owning the nearby Mynt Lounge nightclub, has submitted plans to convert the Art Deco theatre at 1445 Washington Avenue into a 466-seat restaurant and lounge.
The detailed plans envision a ground-floor bar and lounge with 226 seats, retaining the existing stage. A 240-seat restaurant is planned for the first floor. The future use is likely to be based on the concept of MainRo, a club and restaurant that Zago previously opened in Hollywood, California. The 17,589 square foot property holds a licence to serve alcohol until 5 AM.
An upscale dining and entertainment destination
According to an application submitted to the Miami Beach Planning Board for a hearing on 3 November, the applicant is aiming for an upscale dining and entertainment destination. The concept is intended to be in the tradition of grand European supper clubs, as a 'modern Moulin Rouge with touches of Cirque du Soleil'. It merges a full-service luxury restaurant with a reservation-based entertainment lounge, characterised by live theatrical performances instead of an open dance floor.
The application also indicates that Miami-based real estate investor and developer Michael Konig is involved in this venture as a partner. The Cameo Theatre has been a fixture in South Beach nightlife since its construction in 1938, but has largely stood empty since the closure of the Cameo nightclub in 2019. Zori Hayon has owned the property since at least the 1980s.
Operator's background
Romain Zago, a native of France, managed and operated Mynt Lounge before selling the nightclub in 2024. He had successfully established his MainRo concept two years prior. Bob de la Fuente of Lehtinen Schultz, who represents the applicant as legal counsel, did not initially respond to a request for comment. The realisation of the project is subject to approval by the relevant authorities.
