I would consider myself a local at this point. I’ve been in Miami for 14+ years. I’ve lived in Coral Gables and Coconut Grove when I attended the University of Miami. After that, I spent five years in the heart of South Beach working at an architecture office in the Design District during that time, and after that I did a stint in the much quieter North Miami Beach for a few years only to return to South Beach where I am currently. I’ve done my time here in vastly different parts of the city, and by now, think I have a grasp on where to enjoy myself, and what to avoid.
I am a trained architect, a skill I love, but took a different path for the previous five years developing and marketing a jewelry line that was sold to museums, design shops, and fashion boutiques around the globe. Thanks to having that jewelry line, I was lucky enough to become friends with Malcolm and Gabrielle as neighbors at fashion tradeshows in both NYC and Vegas. Most recently I teamed up with Christian Tenekedes, another South Beach transplant, and experienced events producer. Together, we just last month produced an annual charity paddle board race and party to benefit children with terminal illnesses, www.bigheartpaddle.com and currently we are developing the marketing plan to launch a brand new Australian wine label in the United States. www.saintandsinner.com.au Christian was more than happy to contribute his two cents to this guide.
TO EAT
Lost and Found- Saddle up cowboy, or cowgirl for that matter and venture off the beaten path into the Wynwood area. This unassuming saloon is definitely a find. Try the posse club burrito with grilled salmon, bacon, and spinach leaves. Wash it down with a blueberry sea dog on tap. And if you remember to check in on Facebook, remind the friendly waitress about the oversized peanut butter cup cookie a la mode that she owes you. Get there for the Giddy Up, "don't call it a Happy Hour, Happy Hour" between 3-7pm and everything is twice as nice.
La Sandwicherie- This is a no frills all locals type of place in the heart of SOBE, the perfect pit stop on your way to or from la playa, less than two blocks away. Sit in along the outdoor counter that backs into an alley and enjoy one of the many truly authentic French subs on their delicious baguettes. You could try the turkey and Camembert, but you won't go wrong with any of the 20+ sandwiches. Whichever you choose, make sure to have it all the way with an extra side of their homemade vinaigrette and a few extra cornichons.
Yardbird Southern Table and Bar: Brand new to the South Beach scene, this southern inspired cuisine is the latest brainchild of "Top Chef" Jeff Mcinnis. He was also the man behind the anything but ordinary menu, at the wildly popular midtown hangout, Gigi. A few deviled eggs, and a sip from Yardbird's specialty blackberry bourbon lemonade, and you'll have a whole new appreciation for southern style cooking. If you’re ambitiously hungry, stop by for the weekend brunch and don't forget to try Mama's cut little chicken biscuits.
Spris- People watching on Lincoln Road has been featured as one of the 1,000 things to do before you die, and dining at Spris puts you front and center to take it all in. Take a seat, order one of their many tremendous brick fired thin crust pizzas with a liter of ice cold Peroni and enjoy the show. If you want to take advantage of their "beat the clock" menu, then get there between 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm when select pizzas are priced according to the clock (example: at 5:30 you pay $5.30 and so on).
Buena Vista Deli- Just on the outskirts of the swanky Design District is an exquisite French bakery fairly new to the Miami scene. The charming ambience and classic French cafe menu make it the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the finer things in life such as a glass of their house rose, without paying "finer thing prices." Check the chalkboards behind the deli counter for the daily specials, but honestly you can't go wrong with any of the sandwiches or specialty salads. Go for the Nicoise salad and roasted chicken and goat cheese panini combo for a sampling of the best of both worlds.
Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish- The Garcia Brothers have been catching, cooking, and selling the freshest catch in Miami since 1966. Their dedication to providing seafood seekers with excellent fish and stone crab has resulted in two restaurants, a food truck, and a fish market. To get the most out of your Garcia Brothers experience, follow these simple instructions:
La Camaronera- Head over to Little Havana for the Garcia's brothers "stand-up" fare. The very affordable fried fish sandwich may be the best you'll ever have.
TO DRINK:
The Room- The name says it all. A dimly illuminated sign above the entrance doors is the only indication that you're in the right place. The inside is dark and simple and straight to the point. One glance at their beer and wine menu and you'll see what this place is all about. It's a local's favorite that is jam packed with quality beers and wines.
The W- The Living Room Bar at the W in South Beach is the place to lounge at if you are craving interesting and upscale cocktails. It is situated in back of the swanky W Hotel in South Beach and houses interesting elixirs concocted by their own mixology staff.
Hofbrau- You will inevitably spend a lot of time on Lincoln Road, and a lot of time on Lincoln road will call for some cold beer. Stop in at Hofbrau for some quality German beers in quantities such as a liter or if you're feeling extra ambitious, a boot. |
|
Local Tip: Try to make your way to Miami the first weekend in December during Art Basel when you'll get your fill of art for the year. More importantly, you'll get to mingle with globe's most interesting "eclectilites", a word we had to make up, because no other would describe this crowd.
Bike and Picnic on South Beach
Sail and Bocce at Jimbo's |
|
Local Tip: From October to May, Lincoln Road hosts an antique/farmer's market every second Sunday. On a low 70's "Miami winter day", this provides the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon stroll with your beau.
|
|
 |
Lincoln Road is a great thoroughfare to walk on for many reasons, but other than a handful of eateries on our shortlist and also including Doraku Sushi, Zeek’s Roadhouse, and Tiramisu, we would recommend steering clear of the overpriced, under delivering tourist traps on your way. And if there is a girl outside offering you a free meal under plastic wrap, chances are you will get what you pay for. |
|
||
 |
 |
 |