Big openings are rare in the summer in Miami, so we welcome the spanking new W South Beach, 2201 Collins Ave., which opened quietly last weekend and is slated to do it again with a bang this weekend. But while foodies are rejoicing in the eventual arrival of Mr. Chow -- ironically positioned within blocks of its mortal enemy Philippe at the Gansevoort -- and spa junkies can't wait to linger in Bliss, to us Wall is creating the most buzz.

A collaboration between Mokai's Nicola Siervo and Karim Masri and The Opium Group, Wall is yet another swank swilling station adorned in gold and black with dark walls, lacquered bar, copper mesh ceiling -- you get the idea. But really, after a few cocktails, does it matter what the place looks like? Besides, a slew of celebrities are expected, according to Opium Group's Eric Milon, who says, ''The jet set clientele that joins us at Mansion, SET and Louis-Bar-Lounge consistently looks to set the bar with new projects that provide unmatched ambience, glamour and service, and Wall is destined to bring all that and more to Miami Beach nightlife.'' All that will be missing from this Wall, it seems is the word ''The'' before its name.

Save your money on Pay Per View and spend it on drinks at the viewing party at The Clevelander, which will have the UFC 100 fight live from Vegas on the flat screens at its Game On Sports Bar at 10 p.m. Saturday.

At 168 SE First St. is Ecco Pizzateca and Lounge, an organic Italian joint with free WiFi and a happy hour on Thursdays and Fridays featuring free hors d'oeuvres and guest DJs. Shockingly, though the place closes at 4 p.m. most days, the kitchen is open on Thursdays and Fridays until 11 p.m. How does downtown Miami expect to revitalize when cool places like this close at 4 in the afternoon? People, go there on Thursdays and Fridays, and wake up this downtown!

New at The Van Dyke Cafe: Vintage Soul kicks off at 9 p.m. Sunday, featuring live music ranging from R&B and neo soul to jazz, blues, reggae, funk and gospel. The party also features an open mike hour, where the undiscovered take the spotlight to showcase their music, poetry and comedy. To get your shot, e-mail phoenixstarmusic@aol.com with pix, links, mp3 files and whatever else you think earns you some stage time. Vintage Soul will head to the News Lounge at 8 p.m. July 19. Speaking of News Lounge, its new management -- the same folks responsible for Van Dyke, Segafredo Espresso on Lincoln, Spris and TiramesU -- plan to build an outdoor bar, expand the late night bar and cocktail menu and add new music acts, events and guest DJs.

Celebrating Bastille Day on Tuesday is La Goulue in Bal Harbour Shops, where all you can eat mussels and fries are $15 from 5 until 11 p.m. And new every Wednesday through August, Lobster Night at Clarke's features a 1 ½-pound Maine lobster that will set you back a mere $25.

For an interactive and theatrical dining experience that goes beyond your insane family's Sunday night dinner, Mansion is reverting to its theater roots by debuting the longest running off-Broadway show, Tony 'n' Tina's Wedding on Friday. For $73.49, you get an all-inclusive Cuban-Italian dinner, champagne toast and slice of wedding cake. Yep, the Cuban twist is a new one, created just for Miami. For $94.79 you'll get a VIP ticket that includes seating in the first row of tables and a Tony and Tina gift bag. Confused? In a nutshell, you are the ''invited guests'' and interact with the cast. The show runs at 7 every Friday and Saturday night. How long will Mansion be besieged by the scripted nuptials? Indefinitely, says Opium Group's Vanessa Menkes. ``It's been running for more than 20 years in NYC, so we're hoping for the same.''

And for those hoping for a glimpse at bathing beauties in bikinis, you're in luck as Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim storms our shores Wednesday through July 19 with a slew of skimpy shows and soirees at The Raleigh Hotel. While most are industry and invite-only events, some are easier to slink into than others. Info: mbfashionweek.com/miami/.

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