Fontainebleau Miami Beach, renowned for its ability to attract top-tier talent, has named Chef Michael Paley as Executive Steakhouse Chef of classic American steakhouse Prime 54. A prominent fixture in Miami’s vibrant dining scene, Chef Paley’s restaurants have garnered multiple accolades, including two “Restaurant of the Year” awards by Eater and Esquire. With this distinguished background, Chef Paley brings a wealth of culinary expertise and innovation to Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s signature steakhouse, amplifying its already stellar reputation.
“The addition of Chef Paley to our Team Bleau family underscores our commitment to delivering unparalleled dining experiences at Fontainebleau Miami Beach,” says Executive Director of Culinary Jean Paul Lourdes. “His exceptional culinary expertise will be the guiding force that defines the Prime 54 experience for our guests.”
Chef Paley most recently served as Executive Chef of Miami’s Klaw, garnering “Best New Restaurant” honors from Eater and Infatuation Miami in 2022. Under Chef Paley’s stewardship, the restaurant was also ranked No. 35 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list.
Prior to Klaw, Chef Paley served as Executive Chef of Miami’s Amara at Paraiso, earning “Restaurant of the Year” honors from Eater in 2018. He has also held executive chef roles at Austin’s South Congress Hotel and Hotel Ella; and he spearheaded several projects for 21C Museum Hotels as Executive Chef and Managing Partner, including Cincinnati’s Metropole at the 21C, Louisville’s Garage Bar, and Proof on Main at 21C Museum Hotel. Chef Paley is a graduate of Florida Culinary Institute and brings a deep love and understanding of South Florida culture and dining to Fontainebleau Miami Beach.
Since its debut in March, Prime 54 has quickly established itself as Miami’s premier steakhouse experience and an alternative to traditional steakhouses. Located off the historic Chateau lobby in the heart of Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Prime 54 offers the highest-grade beef, dry aged to the perfect taste and tenderness in Locker 28, the restaurant’s unique beef aging room. Under Chef Paley’s stewardship, Prime 54 will maintain its commitment to work with local Florida farmers to hand-select the freshest ingredients and vegetables to create the restaurant’s coveted side dishes.
More information about Fontainebleau Miami Beach and its dining portfolio, including Prime 54, can be found at fontainebleau.com.