Tonight’s gonna be a good night. That is, if your Friday night plans include a venture to one of South Beach’s most iconic properties. Gianni Versace’s former mansion on the corner of Ocean Drive and 11^th Street has been through several identity changes since the late designer was tragically killed in 1997.

We are predicting that the latest reinvention of the property will be one of the most exciting ones to date. None other than Barton G., one of Miami’s legendary restaurateurs is taking over the space, renaming it The Villa by Barton G., and has some exciting things in store for luxury lovers.

It’s clear that the powers that be are setting this venue up to become one of South Florida’s most exclusive boutique hotel/restaurant venues. Tonight’s upscale cocktail party will be an exclusive mix of all the hautest industries in town, with civic leaders, philanthropists, big name media members, politicians, and socialites all showing up to demonstrate their support.

Tonight’s event is from 6 to 8 p.m. If you haven’t sent in your RSVP, that’s what we’re here for. Next week we’ll bring you photos from what goes on tonight behind the iron gates.