Since 1997, Giovanna Fernandez has carved her niche in the world of luxury real estate, mastering the art of the market in Coral Gables, South Miami, Brickell, Key Biscayne, and Pinecrest. Once the managing director and co-owner of a boutique firm, she now leads the high-flying LRF Group at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, a testament to her unyielding dedication and expertise. Armed with a Luxury Real Estate Certification and a degree from the esteemed Cordon Bleu, her keen eye for detail guarantees a personalized experience for her discerning clientele. A devoted community advocate, Giovanna also holds the keys to the city’s best culinary treasures, making her your go-to guide for exceptional experiences around her favorite neighborhood of Brickell.
BY ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
I LOVE BRICKELL BECAUSE… it embodies the essence of Miami: exhilarating, diverse, and dazzling. While many view Brickell as merely a stopover or a workplace, I’ve watched it evolve like a beloved child! Once just a street name, Brickell has blossomed into the second-largest financial district in the U.S. and a must-visit destination on every travel itinerary. I still remember purchasing my very first investment property at Brickell Townhouse 28 years ago for just $72,000—a charming one-bedroom unit with breathtaking views. After giving it a stylish mini facelift for about $8,500, I sold it 11 months later for $120,000, and that’s when my passion for real estate ignited.
BEST PLACE TO HOLD A MEETING IS…. Cipriani, my all-time favorite Italian restaurant (and trust me, as an Italian, I know what I’m talking about). From the moment you step in, you’ll be greeted with a warm “Buongiorno” that makes you feel like a regular. The staff exudes professionalism, the food is nothing short of fantastic, and the private setting with stunning bay views is simply superb.
MY WAY TO DISCONNECT IS… with a jog around Brickell Key. The more stressful the day, the longer I run!
FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS ARE… it all depends on the season, the reason, and what I’m craving! Cipriani is always a “delizioso” choice for a taste of Italy. If you’re in town, you can’t miss Komodo—it’s an absolute must! For a more casual bite, Ojo De Aqua is perfect for breakfast, while Casa Tua Cucina serves up a lunch that never disappoints.
PLACE WHERE YOU WILL FIND LOCAL SPIRIT IS… on the streets of Brickell—it’s like a tropical Manhattan! At night, the energy is absolutely electric, yet the sense of community remains vibrant. From Easter egg hunts and Fourth of July festivities to New Year’s fireworks over the bay, Halloween antics, bar crawls, furbaby playdates, and our Tuesday night run club, we truly are a close-knit community.
WATCHING BRICKELL GROW UP IS… a joy. The transformation from the modest buildings that once lined Brickell Avenue to a stunning skyline adorned with luxurious, sleek constructions has not only enhanced the views but also skyrocketed our property values. Among the most thrilling developments is the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Residences, which promises to elevate the area even further.
BRICKELL’S SECRET SPOT IS… according to my husband it is the Red Phone Booth. It is a fun little speakeasy for cigar aficionados who love to get together, talk about life, politics and anything else that can flare up a good conversation. Figuring a way in isn’t easy and my husband has sworn me to secrecy! You might want to ask him.
GIOVANNA FERNANDEZ | 786.376.3372 | fernandez.gm@ewm.com
LUIS R FERNANDEZ | 786.376.3161 | fernandez.l@ewm.com
thelrfgroup.com
