Over the holidays, I was lucky to enjoy a blissful week in South Beach soaking up the sun and reorienting myself for the year ahead. Miami is one of my favorite get-aways because it’s quick and easy to get to but still has so much character to offer. There is always something new to explore around every colorful turn. In Part 1 of my Miami chronicles, I’ve detailed a few of my favorite classic spots to see, shop and eat! Miami is a unique mix of old and new, of history and art that creates one vibrant, diverse metropolis. Stay tuned for part 2!
STAY:
1 Hotel South Beach:
Despite the hotel being a little larger in size than I usually like, the service was good and the rooms are modern and open with an emphasis on natural elements. Many rooms have a large outdoor terrace with a big seating area, which acts as an additional room. The best part by far is the stunning rooftop pool, which ultimately makes it feel like a boutique hotel. There is a live DJ nearly every day and full service cabanas that really give the pool and surrounding area a fun Miami vibe, as do the cute pool boys.
SHOP:
The Webster, 1220 Collins Avenue: Housed in one of architect Henry Hohauser’s restored hotels, The Webster at South Beach is boasts a collection of luxury fashion to match its striking art deco exterior. The flagship store is a multi-brand boutique that carries all my favorites–beautiful Alaias, Celines–as well as some gorgeous up and coming brands, a collection personally edited by the founder and CEO Laure Heriard Dubreuil whose expertise is in demand across every dimension of the fashion industry.
Mimo Market, 2619 NW 2nd Avenue: An eclectic, quintessential Miami find, this indie boutique is a great stop for locally made jewelry and quirky accessories. In the heart of the vibrant Wynwood block, MIMO is a great example of the passion and creativity that fills Miami’s streets.
EAT:
Bagatelle, 220 21st Street: Well known for it’s weekday parties and infamous brunch, Bagatelle is a truly beautiful restaurant that embodies Miami’s high energy scene. The food is quite yummy and served in a stunning atmosphere adorned with modern artwork. I recommend the creamed spinach.
Puerto Sagua, 700 Collins Avenue: You can’t do Miami without some Cuban, and Puerto Sagua is one of Miami’s top rated. Make no mistake–this is certainly a hole in the wall. The lighting is gas station hideous (which is one of my pet peeves), and you queue up for a free for all. All that said, decent wine and the food was really quite good. Quite good. I had the recommended fish with green sauce – something more elaborate sounding in Spanish – and it delivered. Enjoy the scene. It is touristy, which is generally not my thing, but a Miami must at least once.
Hakkasan, 4441 Collins Avenue: Hakkasan Miami is the inaugural American location of an international institution. We had the famed dim sum brunch during our stay and it was one of the most civilized meals I have had in a long time. True perfection. And, the design! Hakkasan is simply a spectacular space with beautiful, intricate layers of construction– a must see.
SEE:
Wynwood Walls: I’ll have more on this incredible art project in my next post, but wanted to leave you with a peek of some quintessential Miami vibes 😉 Scroll and enjoy.
