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June 23, 2008

Palm Beach Post

Many Eateries Being Quietly Put On The Market

With a so-so winter season over, and the slug­gish summer season upon us, many restaurateurs are throwing in the dish towel.

Restaurant brokers say a large number of eat­eries throughout South Florida and the Treasure Coast have been quietly put up for sale. read more

Many Eateries Being Quietly Put On The Market

May 2008

Florida Real Estate Journal

Restaurant Leasing Declines in Most FL Regional Markets

With the exception, perhaps, of Central Florida, restaurant leasing in the state’s major markets is waning as real and perceived economic weakness continues.

If they aren’t shutting down altogether, single-owner and chain restaurants are at least cutting back on their expansion plans, market observers report.

South Florida

“In general, the market is slow. Since the middle of November and December, we’ve witnessed a dramatic slowdown” in sales and leasing, said Athan “Tom” Prakas, president and owner of Boca Raton-based The Prakas Group Inc., which specializes in restaurant and night club brokerage


read more

Restaurant Leasing Declines in Most FL Regional Markets

June 2008

Real Estate On Restaurant Row

May I Get You A Table?

In the old days, May was the month when we would see the last of the car trailers on the highway heading back north for the summer. They left behind less traffic, the possibil­ity of getting a reservation, and a huge plummet in business.

But these days, Delray Beach and South Florida in gen­eral, are home to more year round residents and less about seasonal visitors. What this demographic change in our area population means for us is more balance in our traffic and sales throughout the year. read more

May I Get You A Table?

March/April

Bocamag.com

Faces

Tom Prakas

* RESTAURANT BROKER

Tom Prakas can probably get a pretty good table these days. For the last nine years, his restaurant-hospitality real estate brokerage has served up some of the best names in the business—and made life a lot more appetizing for the rest of us. Prakas, 51, is an Ohio native and veteran nightclub owner who moved to South Florida about 18 years after a deal in Vegas fell through and a business stint in Atlanta ran its course. read more

Faces

April 2008

Atlantic Ave

The Great Outdoors

 “Spring break” may conjure up visions of college students descending upon our South Florida shores and invading our treasured beaches and restaurants, but for local residents it is simply that time of year where the weather invites us to take in all that the Sunshine State has to offer. This includes the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures of outdoor dining at our local area restaurants, especially the irresistible panache and variety of Atlantic Avenue.

read more

The Great Outdoors

February 28, 2008

TheGapGroup

The Prakas Group Brokers Joint Venture Partnership for II Marco's The Eire Restaurant Group and South Florida Entrepreneur Taylor Smith

 

The Prakas Group Brokers Joint Venture Partnership for Il Marco’s The Eire Restaurant Group

And South Florida Entrepreneur Taylor Smith

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Boca Raton, Fla., February 28, 2008Tom Prakas, founder of The Prakas Group today announced a formidable new partnership between Il Marco founder Marc Spillane, CEO of The Eire Restaurant Group and South Florida Entrepreneur Taylor Smith  

Prakas explains, “New plans are in store for the high profile Il Marco restaurant and lounge situated at Restaurant Row in east Boca Raton.”

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The Prakas Group Brokers Joint Venture Partnership for II Marco's The Eire Restaurant Group and South Florida Entrepreneur Taylor Smith

February 26, 2008

Florida Real Estate Journal

Out On The Town

Out on the town
By: Hortense Leon, Florida Real Estate Journal
Last Updated: Tuesday, February 26, 2008

The restaurant and nightclub business has more than a fleeting connection to the entertainment business. And no one knows this better than Athan “Tom” Prakas, president of The Prakas Group. The 52-year-old owner of the Boca Raton-based commercial real estate brokerage company, which specializes in restaurant and nightclub sales and leasing, represented Danny DeVito as the exclusive broker for the actor’s chic South Beach restaurant, DeVito South Beach, which opened in June 2007. Prakas also recently brokered the sale of the glamorous La Vieille Maison, Boca Raton’s most famous French restaurant for more than 30 years.

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Out On The Town

February 3, 2008

OrlandoSentinel.com

Coal-Fired Pizza needs a home

Coal-Fired Pizza needs a home

Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza Inc., a South Florida chain of pizza restaurants, is looking to break into the Orlando market. The pizza eatery is sniffing around the region for real estate, according to Tom Prakas of the Prakas Group, which is handling the leases. As its name implies, Anthony's uses coal-fired ovens to bake pizzas in about four minutes. The Fort Lauderdale company has eight locations in South Florida and is reportedly looking to open five or six locations in Central Florida. The chain has no connection to existing Central Florida pizza parlors operating under the Anthony's name. read more

Coal-Fired Pizza needs a home

May 2006

Estiator - The Restaurateur

Tom Prakas Grows Restaurant Background Into Thriving Real Estate Brokerage Niche

Sowing the seeds of Innovative think­ing and Influential dealings in South Florida's hothouse of restaurant sales and leases, Athan "Tom" Prakas has created a successful real estate company, stem­ming from his Greek roots and restaura­teur background.

In 2000, Mr. Prakas established The Prakas Group, Inc., a thriving commercial real estate brokerage company specializ­ing In restaurant, nightclub and commer­cial properties throughout Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. For over 25 years before that, Tom Prakas owned and operated 27 restaurants, nightclubs and sports bars throughout Ohio, Atlanta, GA, and South Florida. Lo­cally, Mr. Prakas was the originator of al­ternative music clubs in Palm Beach, with the establishment of The Dark Side In Delray Beach and Moscow in West Palm Beach. He also owned and operated The Spot, a sports/rock cafe in West Palm Beach, and brought the popularity of ci­gar smoking to Boca Raton by establish­ing The Cigar Bar.

 

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Tom Prakas Grows Restaurant Background Into Thriving Real Estate Brokerage Niche

February 2, 2008

Nation's Restaurant News

Prakas on DeVito’s South Beach Deal

(Jan. 28, 2008) During the third season of the acclaimed HBO series “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” the show’s creator, Larry David, and real-life actors Ted Danson and Michael York were portrayed as they struggled to open a trendy, celebrity-owned eatery in Los Angeles.

Over the course of the season, the wannabe restaurateurs were called upon to deal with a strange array of challenges, such as a corpse-sniffing dog, a cook who lies about his baldness and an executive chef afflicted with Tourette’s Syndrome. On the restaurant’s opening night, the chef ends up triggering a obscenity-laced, communal free-for-all that, in real life, would have sent any self-respecting operator scrambling for good legal representation.

read more

Prakas on DeVito’s South Beach Deal

February 1, 2008

Orlando Business Journal

New lease signed on former Lee's Lakeside space

Friday, February 1, 2008
New lease signed on former Lee's Lakeside space

Orlando Business Journal - by Dan Ping Staff Writer

ORLANDO -- A California-based restaurant company may open a contemporary Italian restaurant and wine bar in the former Lee's Lakeside restaurant on the south shore of Lake Eola.

The 10,000-square-foot space at 431 E. Central Blvd. was leased Jan. 24 by Tom DiGiorgio, chief operating officer of Pompano Beach-based DK Group Inc., says Tom Prakas, president of The Prakas Group real estate firm which brokered the deal.

Prakas says DiGiorgio is recruiting famed restaurateur Piero Selvaggio to open a version of his Valentino restaurant in Orlando. It would be the first Valentino eatery in Florida.

DiGiorgio could not be reached for comment.

Selvaggio confirms he is talking with DiGiorgio. "It looks promising, but nothing is written yet," says Selvaggio, who expects to reach a decision by the end of February.

Selvaggio opened the 200-seat Valentino in Santa Monica, Calif., 35 years ago, and the restaurant has garnered a reputation as one of America's best Italian fine-dining establishments, with a wine list with more than 2,500 choices.
 

read more

New lease signed on former Lee's Lakeside space

December 2007

The Boca Raton Observer

Pete's to Become Upscale Fish Market

Athan "Tom" Prakas of The Prakas Group, Inc. has brought together two savvy restaurateurs in a deal that is forever changing a 20-year Boca Raton dining institution. Prakas represented Pete Boinis, owner and manager of the famed Pete's Restaurant on Glades Road, who engaged his firm to find a buyer. And find one he did. Prakas created the link that brought high profile restaurateur Pano Karatassos, Founder and CEO of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group to purchase the Pete's location, for a future fish market concept restaurant.

 

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Pete's to Become Upscale Fish Market

December 2007

The Boca Raton Observer

Hot Pizzeria

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza, with headquarters in Aventura, presently has locations in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Weston, Plantation, Palm Beach Gardens and Coral Springs. 

Anthony Bruno, founder of famed Anthony's Runway 84 and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza, along with partners football great Dan Marino and Ben Novello, former president of Outback Steakhouse, plan to open 12-14 additional locations in the next 12 months including locations in Delray Beach and Boca Raton. read more

Hot Pizzeria

December 2007

Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association

Ready to Sell, Buy, Invest?

Are you ready to buy, sell or invest in a restaurant? Assembling a list of well tested ingredients mixed with a little precaution and foresight will increase your chances for a rewarding experience.  In this issue, we’ll look at choosing the right location. Next issue we’ll talk about the transaction itself and pitfalls to avoid.  Many of the important location decisions for your restaurant’s real estate will be based on a clear understanding of the restaurant’s concept.

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Ready to Sell, Buy, Invest?

August 20, 2007

dine

The Prakas Group Exclusive Broker in Pete's Restaurant Sale

 

August 20, 2007
Contact: Diane G. Diamantis
WordWork
561-487-9526

THE PRAKAS GROUP EXCLUSIVE BROKER IN PETE’S RESTAURANT SALE;
Boca Raton Landmark Restaurant to Change to Fishmarket Concept Restaurant

BOCA RATON, FL – Athan “Tom” Prakas of The Prakas Group, Inc. brought together two savvy restaurateurs in a deal that is forever changing a 20-year Boca Raton dining institution. Prakas represented Pete Boinis, owner and manager of the famed Pete’s Restaurant on Glades Road, who engaged his firm to find a buyer. And find one he did. Prakas created the link that brought high profile restaurateur Pano Karatassos, founder and CEO of Buckhead Life Restaurant Group to purchase the Pete’s location, for a future fishmarket concept restaurant.

read more

The Prakas Group Exclusive Broker in Pete's Restaurant Sale

October 8, 2007

dbBusiness

THE FINANCE GROUP WORLDWIDE, LLC TO PROVIDE COMMERCIAL/RESTAURANT LENDING;

 South Florida -

   BOCA RATON, FL -- Matt T. Weaver has launched The Finance Group Worldwide, LLC, a newly established commercial financial firm which will specialize in mortgages and lending for shopping centers, restaurants, multi-unit buildings and many other forms of commercial properties.  Weaver, president of the company, is partnering with Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of the restaurant and commercial brokerage firm The Prakas Group, Inc. to launch this financial division. The Finance Group is located at 703-705 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL, 33432 and can be reached at 561-368-0003.

            Matt T. Weaver has closed over $650 million in lending transactions, having previously served as president for over 10 years for Capital Mortgage of South Florida Inc. in Boca Raton and Coral Springs, FL, where he specialized in multi-unit, residential & commercial lending.

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THE FINANCE GROUP WORLDWIDE, LLC TO PROVIDE COMMERCIAL/RESTAURANT LENDING;

October 23, 2007

PR - inside.com

Prakas Group, Inc. Named Exclusive Broker for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza Florida Expansion

- For The Prakas Group, Inc., Boca Raton WordWork Diane Diamantis, 561/487-9526 Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage firm specializing in restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the firm has been named exclusive Florida broker for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza and their expansion into the southeastern region of the United States.  Prakas and Randy O'Donnell, franchise restaurant sales and tenant representation specialist, will represent the restaurant in its search for new sites.

read more

 Prakas Group, Inc. Named Exclusive Broker for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza Florida Expansion

October 2007

Florida Commercial Properties

Hollywood: Retail Activity is Par for the Course

Like many of the cities in the hot South Florida market, Hollywood its coming into its own in the com­mercial real estate market, especially in the retail sector. read more

Hollywood: Retail Activity is Par for the Course

September 2007

South Florida CEO

Eating It Up

by Jennifer LeClaire

Tom Prakas traded his restaurant license for a broker's license eight years ago. Will his new menu of divisions pay off or water down his profitable niche?

RESTAURANTS MAY COME and go. but Tom Prakas makes money either way. His firm. The Prakas Group Inc.. serves an ultra-specialized niche in commercial real estate, brokering deals tor restaurant companies looking to buy. sell or rent space.

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Eating It Up

April 5, 2007

South Florida Business Journal

South Florida Business Journal - Business of the year nominee - The Prakas Group

Regions Bank and the South Florida Business Journal proudly present the 2007 Business of the Year Awards

The Business of the Year Awards recognize the accomplishments of various business industries in the South Florida marketplace. Awards are based on revenue growth, creation of jobs, commitment to employees and community involvement. All finalists will be honored and winners named at an awards luncheon, on April 5, 2007 at 11:30 a.m. at the Broward County Convention Center. 

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South Florida Business Journal - Business of the year nominee - The Prakas Group

July 15, 2007

Boca Raton News

Experience Counts

Boca Raton News

Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker and James Layson, managing partner/Central Florida of the Boca Raton-based Prakas Group, Inc., have announced the firma has been selected by Sam Sutton of Lake Buena Vista Resort, LLC as exclusive broker to market 8,000 square feet of restaurant space at Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa.

read more

Experience Counts

June 21, 2007

Philly.com

Humorist Dave Barry is in Town

 

By Michael Klein

Inquirer Columnist

Humorist Dave Barry will be feted tonight at the Pen & Pencil Club, the night before he addresses the annual conference of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists.

Barry's last time at the Center City journo hangout: "He said he doesn't remember the ride home - someone drove him," says Philadelphia Daily News columnist Stu Bykofsky, who's spent two years planning the conclave. About 125 newsies plus spouses and guests will encamp at the Sofitel through Sunday for speeches, panels and hobnobbing. They'll also tour Citizens Bank Park and the battleship New Jersey and, just to clear their sinuses, ride the Broad Street Subway.

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Humorist Dave Barry is in Town

June 21, 2007

GlobeST

Two Liberty Trolls for a Restaurateur

By Merita Thomas

PHILADELPHIA-The Boca Raton, FL-based Falcone Group, which is in the process of converting the top 20 floors of the Two Liberty Place office tower into approximately 122 residential condo units, has cast a wide net to bring a new restaurant to the building. It has enlisted the Prakas Group Inc. to market 10,000 sf on the 37th floor of the building at 1601 Chestnut St. for sale or long-term lease to a restaurateur.

The space is located between 36 lower stories of class A office space and the 20 stories of residences above. Depending on the design and build-out, the space could seat about 275.

Prakas, which has offices in Boca Raton and Orlando, specializes in commercial, restaurant and hospitality properties. Tom Prakas, president and broker, tells GlobeSt.com, "the asking selling price is In the range of $650 per sf, or about $6.5 million, and the asking rent rate is in the area of $65 per sf. There could be concessions. We want a star, and the combination of chef and operator will seal the deal.

read more

Two Liberty Trolls for a Restaurateur

May 22, 2007

dBusinessNews

The Prakas Group, Inc. Closes Restaurant Sale

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Broward County.

read more

The Prakas Group, Inc. Closes Restaurant Sale

June 13, 2007

dBusinessNews

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. REPORTS COMMERCIAL SALE, BUSINESS SALE AND ONE LEASE TRANSACTION IN RECENT PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY

DELRAY BEACH, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, business brokerage, restaurants and hospitality properties, has reported the completion of a property sale, business sale and one lease transaction in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

Christian Prakas, restaurant/nightclub specialist, was exclusive broker for the following three transactions:

*Select Investment Properties has purchased a 2,800 SF building located at 19-23 SE 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL. The building is presently 75% leased including an insurance company and BluIce Lounge, a new martini lounge. The sale is valued at $1,250,000. The Prakas Group, Inc. represented both the buyer and the sellers, Joseph Peraino and Frank Carucci of Joe's Pub Corp.

* Khoury Synergy has purchased the 1,500 SF BluIce Lounge located at 19 SE 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL. BluIce Lounge is a chic lounge serving Mediterranean themed dishes and crepes along with a full liquor bar. The sale is valued at $175,000. The Prakas Group, Inc. represented the buyer as well as the seller, Taylor Smith of On The Rocks.

According to Christian Prakas, "This is an excellent location in Delray Beach, right on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Federal Highway. It's a treasure-trove for any business seeking maximum exposure on one of the hottest strips in Palm Beach County."

*Boca Tanning Club Deerfield, Inc. has leased 1,700 SF of retail space for Boca Tanning Club, an upscale tanning salon, located at 215 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL. The company has been in business for five years and has three other Florida locations including one in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. The deal is valued at $215,000. The Prakas Group, Inc. is exclusive broker for Boca Tanning Club for all of South Florida. The Prakas Group, Inc. represented the lessee. The lessor, Investments Limited, represented themselves.

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. REPORTS COMMERCIAL SALE, BUSINESS SALE AND ONE LEASE TRANSACTION IN RECENT PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY

May 14, 2007

dBusinessNews

The Prakas Group, Inc. Brokers Sale For Faison-Grove Square, LLC in Delray Beach, FL

DELRAY BEACH, FLAthan “Tom” Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Palm Beach County.  read more

The Prakas Group, Inc. Brokers Sale For Faison-Grove Square, LLC in Delray Beach, FL

May 2007

Florida Real Estate Journal

Prakas Group to Rep. Hurricane Grill & Wings

BOCA RATON - Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group Inc., has been awarded exclusive representation by Hurricane Brand Holdings LLC, a Stuart-based company, and by area developer Alex Karas to broker more than 30 future South Florida Hurricane Grill & Wings sites.

read more

Prakas Group to Rep. Hurricane Grill & Wings

May 15, 2007

Boca Raton News

Prakas Group Brokers Sale of Retail Block in Delray

FROM STAFF REPORTS
Athan "Tom" Prakas, president broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

Prakas was exclusive broker for the following transaction: 290 East Atlantic, LLC has purchased a 10,000 square foot retail space located at 290 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, as an investment
property. The sale is valued at $4,094,700. The Prakas Group, Inc. represented both the buyer and the seller, Faison-Grove Square, LLC, a Charlotte, N.C. based company.

read more

Prakas Group Brokers Sale of Retail Block in Delray

May 14, 2007

dBusinessNews

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. BROKERS SALE FOR

DELRAY BEACH, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

A. Tom Prakas was exclusive broker for the following transaction:

*290 East Atlantic, LLC has purchased a 10,000 SF retail space located at 290 E. Atlantic Blvd., Delray Beach, FL as an investment property. The sale is valued at $4,094,700. The Prakas Group, Inc. represented both the buyer and the seller, Faison-Grove Square, LLC, a Charlotte, NC based company.

 

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. BROKERS SALE FOR

April 18, 2007

dBusinessNews

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. AWARDED EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION

South Florida -

BOCA RATON, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has been awarded exclusive representation by Hurricane Brand Holdings, LLC, a Stuart, Florida based company, and by area developer Alex Karas, to broker 30+ future South Florida Hurricane Grill & Wings sites.

The Prakas Group, Inc. will exclusively cover Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Nationally, the company is planning to open 100 additional Hurricane Grill & Wings sites. Restaurant sites will occupy inline, outparcel or endcap spaces of 1,200 to 1,800 SF.  Randy O'Donnell and Mike Bilton of The Prakas Group, Inc. are exclusive brokers representing Hurricane Grill & Wings.

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. AWARDED EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION

March 15, 2007

Today's Restaurant News

What's Going On

 Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/ broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and ties, has announed the completion of two sales in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

read more

What's Going On

Febrary 12, 2007

Palm Beach Post

Prakas Group - Two Storefront Delray deals

 

Tom Prakas of The Prakas Group Inc. is smack in the middle of f'two storefront Delray deals hot enough to sizzle a sidewalk.

Faison & Associates sold 1,923 square feet at 250-258 E. Atlantic Ave. for $520 per square foot to an art dealer; 8,833 square feet at 270 and 290 E. Atlantic Ave. went for an only slightly less breathtaking $475 per square foot.

 

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Prakas Group - Two Storefront Delray deals

March 2007

The Monday Morning Line

Firm to recruit staff in surging eatery market

 

BOCA RATON — It's hard to find good help these days, es­pecially in the hospitality busi­ness.

So after years of running a free referral business, restau­rant broker Tom Prakas had an idea: Create a hospitality re­cruitment firm.

Working with Ken Spahn, an attorney and food critic, Prakas says Restaurant Placement Group will draw from their contacts in the restaurant industry.

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Firm to recruit staff in surging eatery market

March 25, 2007

Boca Raton News

Prakas Group of Boca closes deal on Hollywood grille

FROM STAFF REPORTS Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker   of   The   Prakas Group, Inc., a Boca Raton-based real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants   and   hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Broward County.

read more

Prakas Group of Boca closes deal on Hollywood grille

March 14, 2007

dBusinessNews

The Prakas Group, Inc. Expands with New Recruitment Division

BOCA RATON AND ORLANDO, FL – Athan “Tom” Prakas , president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage firm with offices in Boca Raton, FL and Orlando, FL specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has expanded with the addition of a new personnel recruitment arm for the restaurant, food service, and hospitality industries.

The division, called Restaurant Placement Group (“RPG”), will help place restaurant professionals, including chefs, managers, and corporate personnel in the restaurant and hospitality field. RPG represents restaurants and related organizations (hotels, country clubs, assisted living facilities, etc.) seeking to fill key positions. RPG also assists restaurant industry professionals to help explore new career opportunities. Tom Prakas comments, “The recruitment company adds another dimension to The Prakas Group, and helps us continue toward a goal of providing full service to the restaurant and hospitality industry.”

 

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The Prakas Group, Inc. Expands with New Recruitment Division

January 01, 2007

dBusinessNews

The Prakas Group, Inc. Brokers Sale of Pinapple Grille

DELRAY BEACH, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a sale in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

Mr. Yanni Agelopoulos, vice president of commercial real estate, was broker for the following sale transaction:

*Gurpal Singh has purchased Pineapple Grille, a 4,000 SF restaurant at 800 Palm Trail, Delray Beach, FL. Pineapple Grille, a casual restaurant featuring Caribbean-infused cuisine, has been in operation at the present location for thirteen years.  Mr. Agelopolous was exclusive broker in the transaction, representing the buyer as well as the seller, Charlie Tobias. The restaurant is presently undergoing renovations and seats 155 guests. "Pineapple Grille has been -- and will continue to be -- a popular destination for diners seeking a unique dining experience in Delray Beach," stated Tom Prakas.

 

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The Prakas Group, Inc. Brokers Sale of Pinapple Grille

January 15, 2007

Nation's Restaurant News

Investing with the stars: Celebrity backing brings cachet, challenges

Paparazzi cameras will no doubt be flashing when Danny DeVito throws open the doors of his new Italian chophouse in Miami Beach, Fla.

DeVito, who achieved recent notoriety for his limoncello-fueled appearance on ABC's "The View" after a night of drinking with fel­low actor George Clooney, is scheduled to open the swanky DeVito South Beach with restau­rateur David Manero in Feb­ruary, joining a growing number of movie, music and sports celebrities putting their invest­ment dollars into restaurants. As DeVito South Beach investor Michael Brauser of Boca Raton, Fla., told the Palm Beach Post recently: "He likes to have fun, which is what happens in a restaurant. But his name still carries a great image, and people love 'clean' celebrities."

But for all of the panache a celebrity can bring to an operation, the trend of partnering with luminaries can be a double-edged steak knife, where egos and reputations can sometimes get in the way.

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Investing with the stars: Celebrity backing brings cachet, challenges

January 02, 2007

CoStar Group

Faison Sells High-End Retail Space in Delray Beach

Faison Sells High-End Retail Space in Delray Beach

Charlotte-based Faison & Associates agreed to sell 10,756 square feet of high-end retail space in downtown Delray Beach, FL, for a total of $5.2 million.

In the first deal, Downtown Delray Holdings LLC, an art dealer, paid $1 million, or a whopping $520 per square foot, for 1,923 square feet at 250-258 E. Atlantic Ave. The buyer will occupy that space.

 

read more

Faison Sells High-End Retail Space in Delray Beach

1/8/07

dBusiness News.com

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. CLOSES TWO SALES IN PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY; OLYMPIA CAFE AND JOHN BULL ENGLISH PUB

South Florida 

PALM BEACH GARDENS & WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of two sales in recent activity in Palm Beach County.

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. CLOSES TWO SALES IN PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY; OLYMPIA CAFE AND JOHN BULL ENGLISH PUB

11/17/2006

South Florida - The Business Journal

Downtown Delray Holdings LLC Has Bought a 1,923 ft Showroom a 250 E. Atlantic Ave.

The Prakas Group real estate brokerage said Downtown Delray Holdings LLC, also known as American Royal Arts Corp., has bought a 1,923-square-foot retail showroom at 250 E. Atlantic Ave., in Delray Beach. The animation and entertainment fine art publisher also has a location on Las Olas Boulevard, in Fort Lauderdale.

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Downtown Delray Holdings LLC Has Bought a 1,923 ft Showroom a 250 E. Atlantic Ave.

September 11, 2006

South Florida - The Business Journal

La Vieille Maison home gets new owner

 The former home of a French restaurant in Boca Raton, has sold for $3.1 million.

The Prakas Group real estate brokerage said Talbott Realty bought the 6,7OO-square-foot building on 36,000 square feet of land at 770 E. Palmetto Park Road, in Boca Raton.

The 12O-seat La Vieille Maison restaurant had been there for 30 years. Prakas

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La Vieille Maison home gets new owner

November 6, 2006

dBusiness News.com

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. CLOSES LEASE FOR TAVERNA OPA RESTAURANT IN CITY PLACE, WEST PALM BEACH

 South Florida -

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a lease in recent activity.

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. CLOSES LEASE FOR TAVERNA OPA RESTAURANT IN CITY PLACE, WEST PALM BEACH

October 10, 2006

Boca News

Boca Raton-based Prakas Group adds new VP at Orlando office

Boca Raton, has announced the appointment of Maria A. Bonomo as vice president in the company's restaurant/hospitali­ty division for the newly estab­lished Orlando office.

Bonomo will focus on site selection and brokerage of exclusive restaurant business­es, commercial restaurant properties and all entertain­ment properties in the Orlando area. The Prakas Group, Inc. recently expanded the company beyond its Boca Raton head­quarters with an office in Orlando.

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Boca Raton-based Prakas Group adds new VP at Orlando office

August 24, 2006

dBusiness News.com

THE PRAKAS GROUP, Inc. SELECTED AS EXCLUSIVE BROKER FOR he Shoppes @ Nu River Landing

 FORT LAUDERDALE, PL - Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced that the firm has been selected by developer Jeffrey Lax as exclusive broker to represent The Shoppes (3). Nu River Landmg._ Tlw Shoppes @ Nit River Landing is the commercial component of the newly constructed Nu River Landing Condominium complex located at 511 SB 5th Ave, in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Mr. Prakas and Commercial Specialist Alan Macaulay have the exclusive listing for sales and leasing,

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, Inc. SELECTED AS EXCLUSIVE BROKER FOR he Shoppes @ Nu River Landing

September 19, 2006

Boca News

Developer Talbott purchases former Vieille Maison in Boca

 Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of he Prakas Group Inc., has announced the ompletion of the sale of one of Boca laton's most notable restaurants. Prakas and John Douglas, vice president, eal estate investments and business acqui-itions, were exclusive brokers to Talbott lealty, Inc.'s purchase of the 6,700 square jot building on 36,000 square feet of land jcated at 770 East Palmetto Park Road, tie former home of La Vieille Maison, Boca baton's most famous French restaurant and ve-star destination for 30 years. The eslaurant recently closed. Prakas and Douglas were exclusive bro-ers representing the buyer as well as the eller, Leonce Picot, The restaurant can ccommodate 120 guests. The sale is val-edat $3.1 million.

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Developer Talbott purchases former Vieille Maison in Boca

September 2006

Sun Sentinel

La Vielle Maison

 Prakas Group said it served as broker for the sale of a Boca Raton landmark, the French restaurant La Vielle Maison, to Tal-bott Realty Inc It valued the sale at $3.1 million. In August, Prakas arranged the lease on a Parkland location for Bluefin Sushi & Thai Grill, which continues to operate at its original Yamato Road location in Boca Raton.

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La Vielle Maison

September 11, 2006

South Florida - The Business Journal

La Vieille Maison home gets new owner

 The former home of a French restaurant in Boca Raton, has sold for $3.1 million.

The Prakas Group real estate brokerage said Talbott Realty bought the 6,7OO-square-foot building on 36,000 square feet of land at 770 E. Palmetto Park Road, in Boca Raton.

The 12O-seat La Vieille Maison restaurant had been there for 30 years. Prakas

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La Vieille Maison home gets new owner

September 2006

Newspaper

Q&A with the Prakas Group, Inc.

Q&A with the Prakas Group, Inc.

With Randy O'Donnell, Franchise & Restaurant Sale Specialist

 

Q: What kind of impact has the influx of northerners and senior citi­zens had on restaurant franchise open­ings?

A: As a whole, the influx of north­erners and senior citizens has had a tremendous impact on franchise restaurant openings, as a loyal contri­bution to the customer base as well as to the labor force. Separately, they have influenced the diversity of food categories traditionally associated with South Florida as well as having an impact on restaurant marketing programs.

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Q&A with the Prakas Group, Inc.

4/18/2007

dBusiness News.com

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. EXCLUSIVE BROKER FOR BLUEFIN SUSHI AND THAI GRILL LEASE IN PARKLAND; SECOND BLUEFIN TRANSACTION BY THE FIRM

BOCA RATON, FL - Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and hospitality properties, has announced the completion of a lease in recent activity.

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THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. EXCLUSIVE BROKER FOR BLUEFIN SUSHI AND THAI GRILL LEASE IN PARKLAND; SECOND BLUEFIN TRANSACTION BY THE FIRM

August 2006

Daily Business Review

Starved for sites

Development pressures make suitable locations hard to find for restaurateurs hungry for area market 

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Starved for sites

June 27, 2006

Boca Raton News

The Prakas Group brokers deal for medical firm

Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of the Boca Raton-based Prakas Group Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and nightclubs, has announced the completion of a retail space sale. read more

Broker deal for medical firm

June 23-29, 2006

Orlando Bizjournals

S. Florida Restaurant Broker Sets Up Local Operations

by Bob Mervine

ORLANDO - With no end to Central Florida's growing list of new restaurants in sight,, a high-profile Boca Raton real estate broker that specializes in finding spots for new eateries has opened a second office in Orlando.

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Orlando Bizjournals

June 21, 2006

dBusinessNews

THE PRAKAS GROUP, INC. OF BOCA RATON EXPANDS TO ORLANDO

BOCA RATON & ORLANDO, FL – A successful local restaurant brokerage plans to add some spice to the flavorful dining and entertainment menu of Central Florida. Athan “Tom” Prakas of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage specializing in restaurant and nightclub sales and leasing, has expanded the company beyond its Boca Raton headquarters into Orlando. The Prakas Group, Inc. has opened a new office location at 7380 Sand Lake Center, Suite 500, Orlando. Read more

Prakas Group Expands to Orlando

June 13, 2006

Boca News

Boca’s Prakas Group handles restaurant deals

Bucky’s Rib comes to town on Dixie Hwy.; On the Rox owner to take over Joe’s Pub

Athan “Tom” Prakas, president/ broker of The Prakas Group Inc., a full service real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and nightclubs, has announced the completion of a restaurant lease and a restaurant sale.

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Bucky's rib

June 12, 2006

Nation's Restaurant News

The Restaurant People Stay Hot in Fla. with Blue Fire

Delray Beach, Fla. - The Restaurant People, a South Florida group that owns three Tarpon Bend restaurants, in Broward and Dade counties, and the River House in Fort Lauderdale, is spending $2.4 million to launch a new midscale brand called Blue Fire in this Palm Beach County dining mecca

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Nation's Restaurant News
June 11, 2006

Ex-chief's pal Talbott buying Vieille Maison

La Vieille Maison, the legendary French restaurant in Boca Raton, is under contract to be sold for a reported $3.1 million.

The buyer: Developer Greg Talbott, a major downtown Boca landowner who seems to prefer Italian food. Talbott was famously arrested last September at Luna Pazza restaurant downtown, after allegedly lashing out at his wife, a police officer and a restaurant manager while in a drunken state.

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Vieille Maison

June 01, 2006

dBusinessNews

THE PRAKAS GROUP SELECTED TO REPRESENT SALE OF La Vieille Maison

            BOCA RATON, FL – Athan “Tom” Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage specializing in commercial transactions, restaurants and nightclubs, has announced that the firm has been selected as exclusive broker to represent owner Leonce Picot in the sale of La Vieille Maison, Boca Raton’s most famous French restaurant. Read more

La Vieille Maison

May 2006

Florida Realtor

How To Broker a Restaurant or Nightclub

Far from a get-rich-quick niche, this specialty takes hard work, determination and a good grasp of the market. Take some tips from a former restaurateur who brokers some of South Florida’s hottest “eatertainment” locations. by Tom Prakas. more

Florida Realtor

April 26, 2006

Daily Business Review

$7.2 million Las Vegas Lease Arranged for Taverna Opa

Dealmaker: Commercial real estate broker Athan "Tom" Prakas.

The Deal: Prakas negotiated a 6,300 square foot lease in Las Vegas on behalf of his client, South Florida based Taverna Opa Restaurant. The deal, valued at $7.2 million, closed April 3.

Read the article $7.2 Million Las Vegas Lease Arranged for Taverna Opa

Taverna Opa

April 12, 2006

Boca New

Boca Brokerages Firm Handles Las Vegas Deal

Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker of The Prakas Group Inc., a Boca Raton based commercial real estate brokerage specializing in restaurants and nightclub properties, has brokered a restaurant lease transaction for South Florida based Taverna Opa restaurant in Las Vegas. more

March 20, 2006

South Florida Business Journal

Grand Lux set to grow in region

After whetting South Floridians' appetites with its Sawgrass Mills restaurant, the upscale Grand Lux Café is opening at least two more of its large eateries in the region. more

Grand Lux Growing in Region by Prakas Group

Jan. 23 2006.

Boca Raton News

Boca firm handles restaurant deal for Danny DeVito

Boca Raton brokerage firm The Prakas Group received a taste of Hollywood recently through partnering with actor Danny DeVito to open a new Miami restaurant. more

 

Jan. 2006

Florida Investor

A Booming Paradise

A Booming Paradise - That's how Tom Prakas describes Florida. And,, as the leading man in restaurant / nightclub property real estate, Tom knows a thing or two about the joys of South Florida living. read the article on Booming Paradise.

Sep. 2006

Luxe Living

Shore Restaurant & Bar

by Leslie Kraft Burke

It's a good thing that our waiter at Shore Restaurant and Beach Bar in Delray beach didn't show us the desert menu before dinner.

Dessert - for the pure fun of it - rules at this new restaurant created by David Manero just after his great sucess with Gothan City in West Palm Beach. So it was tempting to go right for it. But mom always says to eat dinner first, and, as always, she was right.

Read the Lux Living article "Shore Restaurant & Bar".

by Lauren Halperin

Behind the Scenes - The Eatertainment King

The next time you dine in one of your favorite restaurants, there is a good chance that Athan "Tom" Prakas, one of South Florida's leading restaurant brokers, had a hand in closing the deal for their location.

Read more about "Behind the Scenes - The Eatertainment King"

Sept. 20 2004

Boca Raton News

On The Cover

For Athan “Tom” Prakas, company growth was a logical progression. When Prakas started The Prakas Group, Inc. in 2000, brokerage of restaurants and nightclubs was a natural specialty. The real estate broker had owned 27 restaurants and nightclubs in three states, and had originated successful music clubs and nightclub concepts in South Florida. more

Tom Prakas Boca Brokers on the cover

Jan. 16, 2006

Sun Sentinel

Staying The Main Course

by Robyn Friedman

Athan "Tom" Prakas knew early that he would be a restaurateur. With his parents and uncles owning 42 restaurants and lounges, he literally grew up in the business. So as soon as Prakas was old enough the get a liquor license, he opened his own restaurant.

read the article "Staying The Main Course"

March 2005

Luxe Living

Tom Prakas & The Prakas Group - Lord of Atlantic Avenue

Walking along Atlantic Avenue at Southeast First Street in Delray Beach, Athan "Tom" Prakas is clearly lord over this domain.

Read the complete article "Tom Prakas Lord of Atlantic Avenue"

Sept. 2005

Luxe Living

South Florida Downtowns Come Alive

Tom Prakas is watching as history repeats itself again - and again. The Delray Beach Realtor and deal maker helped bring new life to that city's Atlantic Avenue downtown corridor. He's been the architect of scores of deals that have lead to its rejuvenation.

Read the complete article on how "South Florida Downtowns Come Alive"

Dec. 2004

City & Shore

20 New Restaurants for 2005

Tom Prakas, arguably the biggest restaurant broker in Palm Beach County, says he continues to get hundreds of calls each month about Delray Beach's Atlantic Avenue. But there's also lots of interest in the northern part of the country. Fort Lauderdale's Tarpon Bend, for instance, will open in north Palm Beach County along with Coral Gables.

Read 20 New Restaurants for 2005 story from City & Shore

Lux Living

Family Ways

With eight children Prakas enjoys a tightly knit traditional Greek family. For years, the family too to Colorado - Telluride, Beaver Creek and Vail - for similar outings. "Flying to Colorado with 10 is like a troop movement," he jokes. This winter, the family drove to the Blue Ridge Mountains to ski.

Read the complete article "Family Ways"

April 30, 2003

Delray man brokers deals to bring city its new restaurants, nightclubs

As president of The Prakas Group in Boca Raton, Prakas, 48, is a commercial real estate broker who specializes in restaurant and nightclub brokerage. He has sold more than 100 properties in the past four years, including the Delray Beach Yacht Club and the First Union Building in Delray Beach.

read the complete article "Delray man brokers deals to bring city its new restaurants, nightclubs"

Jun. 27 2004

Lake Ida Plaza sells for $6.85 Million

E.B.J. Holdings has paid $6.85 million for the Lake Ida Plaza shopping enter in Delray Beach, according to the Prakas Group, a commercial real estate brokerage firm that said it represented both the buyer and seller in the sale. more
The Business Journal
December 2001

The Match Maker

When Tom Prakas walks into most restaurants in Palm Beach County, he's practically guaranteed the best table.

With an estimated $50 million in commercial and restaurant real estate deals in 2001, and a reputation as the area's leading restaurant/nightclub broker, Prakas, 46, commands that kind of respect. "We're a boutique brokerage," he says. "We fly under the radar to find our deals."

read more about the Match Maker - Tom Prakas

Jul. 09 2001

The Business Journal

Secret ingredient

Many restaurants that used to be Athan "Tom" Prakas' biggest competitors are now some of his best clients. more

Jan 23 2006

Medical and Professional Center Sells, to go Condo

The Pompano Beach Medical and Professional Center has sold for $3.8 million and will convert to condos, a brokerage that took part in the sale said.

The Prakas Group said Astra Fund, an offshore investment company, bought the 25,380-square-foot center at 50 N.E. 26th Ave., in Pompano Beach. Boca Raton-based Prakas Group said it represented the seller, Kaja Properties.

Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/broker at the Prakas Group, said Astra Fund bought the multi-tenant building as an investment and has plans to convert it to office condominiums.

"This is a real growth area and the sales should be brisk," Prakas said. "This was a win-win situation for the buyer and seller."

Read the complete article

The Business Journal
Dec 28 2003

Aura in Delray bought by Las Olas Home Builder

The Aura restaurant/lounge in downtown Delray Beach was bought by Las Olas luxury home developer Jack Mancini, who plans to open another addition to Atlantic Avenues’ popular restaurant/bar scene.


Mancini purchased the 4,400-square-foot building at 210 E. Atlantic Ave. in November from restaurateur Mike Bilton in a $400,000 transaction brokered by The Prakas Group. The location is currently being renovated and is expected to open in late January or early February as Mancini’s on Atlantic. The builder also has owned Mancini’s on Las Olas for four years.

Read the complete article

Boca Raton News

June 20, 2001

Delray Times

The Prakas Group Closes $6.3 Million Sale

Athan "Tom" Prakas, president/owner of The Prakas Group Inc. - a commercial real estate brokerage company specializing in restaurant, nightclub and commercial properties - has announced the completion of a commercial building sale in Delray Beach.

Read The Prakas Group Closes $6.3 Million Sales

April 27, 2001

Palm Beach Post

Manager Puts Off Ritz For Own Spot

After 10 years as general manager of The Ritz-Carlton in Manalapan, Wolfgang Baere bid farewell last month to the exclusive hotel and bought the 15-year-old Shuckers Ocean Bar and Grill and the adjoining 60 room Island Beach Resort on Hutchison Island.

Read the Palm Beach Post article "Manager Puts Off Ritz For Own Spot"

April 2001

Beyond the Avenue

From the window of his downtown Delray Beach office, Lou Waldmann has a dubious view: heavy equipment, barricades, a dismantled street. Still, he believes it's the best view in town.

"With a little vision you can see what's happnding here," says Waldmann, program manager for Pineapple Grove Main Street Inc., the nonprofit organization charged with redeveloping Delray Beach's Pineapple Grove district. "It goes beyond beautification of a street. We're really developing what amounts to a cultural center."

Read "Beyond the Avenue"

 

 

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