WORK • Thursday Routine
EMI GUERRA • co-founder • Breakwater Hospitality Group
Neighborhood you work in: Downtown Miami
Neighborhood you live in: Miami Springs
It’s Thursday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
Thursday mornings at Breakwater usually have a strong sense of momentum. We front-load our senior leadership meetings early in the week so that by Thursday, the teams are in execution mode and things are humming. The energy in the office is high — ideas are being brought to life, and the focus shifts from strategy to action. Personally, I use Thursdays to take a step forward on new projects. Most of my business development meetings are scheduled today, whether it’s for upcoming hospitality concepts or real estate ventures. It’s a day where vision and execution meet.
What’s on the agenda for today?
This morning has already been full-speed. I jumped into a design review for a new venue we’re building, focusing on sound and lighting integration. Between those, I finalized contract details with our attorney for a beverage activation with Florida International University. Oh, and I signed the final documents for an investment property our family is acquiring. All before lunch.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
Tonight, my wife and I are going to Omakai in Doral, which has become one of our go-to spots for date night. It’s close to home, consistent, and the team there always takes great care of us. The food’s clean and simple, the vibe is easygoing, and we probably go once a week without even realizing it.
Graziano’s in Coral Gables is another favorite: wood-fired steaks hit the spot every time and their South American wine list is top-tier. It’s one of those restaurants that always delivers, whether you’re with family or just winding down the weekend.
How about a little leisure or culture?
We recently took our kids to their very first Monster Truck Jam, and their reactions were priceless. Seeing their faces light up as the trucks jumped, flipped, and roared was one of those unforgettable parenting moments. As someone who builds large-scale experiences professionally, it’s extra special when you get to be on the receiving end and simply soak in the joy with your family.
Any weekend getaways?
We usually bounce between two types of weekend getaways: quick drives and short flights.
If it’s a drive, we head to The Keys where we’re going this weekend to prep for a full remodel of our home down there. I’m taking the kids fishing there for the first time, which is a full-circle moment for me since I spent so much of my own childhood there. The Keys hold a special place in my heart. Whether it’s being on the water, soaking up the sun, or watching the kids connect with nature, it’s an experience that grounds us. Whenever we make that drive, we always stop at Island Fish Co. in Marathon for a quick bite. The grouper is our move — fresh, perfectly cooked — and there’s something about sitting outside by the water that never gets old.
If we’re flying, The St. Regis Kanai in Riviera Maya, Mexico, is one of our absolute favorites. It’s a quick two-hour flight, the service is world-class, the accommodations are stunning, and every time we go, we never want to leave. It’s elegant, peaceful, and great for couples, but also very kid-friendly. We’ve done it both ways, and each visit has been memorable.
What was your last great vacation?
One of our most memorable trips was a family vacation to Spain. I flew my wife, our kids, my parents, and my mother-in-law out and it was incredible to share that experience across three generations. In Ibiza, we explore the island’s quieter side — the beaches and beach clubs (chiringuitos) are what make it magical. Some of our go-to dining spots: Casa Maca, Cas Pagès, Cala Gracioneta, and El Chiringuito. We always carve out time to take a boat out to Formentera and catch the sunset behind Es Vedra.
What store or services do you always recommend?
If you’re looking for a custom suit or shirt that truly fits you — style, craftsmanship, and all — I always recommend Sartori Amici in Coral Gables. Ask for Sebastian. For health and longevity, I work with the incredible team at Medical Health Institute. Their attention to personalized wellness is unmatched. And if you’re into fitness or looking to push your limits, I highly recommend trying Hyrox. It’s a global fitness race that blends endurance, strength, and grit.
Where are you donating your time or money?
We’ve partnered with hundreds of nonprofit organizations through our venues over the years, especially those focused on supporting children and education. I also personally support The Love Fund, managed by the South Florida PBA, which helps officers injured in the line of duty. Two others close to my heart are La Liga Contra el Cáncer and the Alzheimer’s Association. Giving back is a core part of our company’s values and my personal philosophy.