Curator’s statement
Having lived in Miami for a few months, here’s a list I pulled together of activities and food and drink recommendations.
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Where to stay in Miami
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Things to do in Miami
Activities:
Rent a boat or jet ski
Explore Wynwood: Colorful murals, food, shopping and art galleries. Great for walking around, enjoying outdoor eateries and checking out pop-up stands.
Design District: High-end shopping, cafes and architecture.
Shopping Spots: Bal Harbour Shops, CocoWalk, Brickell City Center.
Museums: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Institute of Contemporary Art.
Versace Mansion: Built in 1930 and previously owned Gianni Versace.
Day Trips
Check out the pristine beaches of Bal Harbour and Key Biscayne.
A quick 20-minute drive from downtown Miami, Coral Gables also boasts a vibrant culinary and shopping scene.
Places to eat & drink in Miami
Dinner:
For most food and drink spots, I’d recommend booking a reservation in advance.
Sexyfish: Glamorous Asian restaurant.
Casadona: Enchanting outdoor Italian restaurant that transports you to a vibrant garden setting.
Cecconi's Miami: Good spot for brunch or seafood/Italian.
La Mar: Peruvian restaurant with stunning views of Brickell (in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel).
Komodo: Three-story indoor and outdoor restaurant with mouthwatering food. Recommended dishes: crispy rice, A5 Wagyu, truffle honey salmon sashimi.
Byblos: Mediterranean restaurant on South Beach. You won't go wrong ordering any of the "To Share" dishes.
Jaya at The Setai: Indian Asian food with fire dancers and incredible vibes.
Estiatorio Milos: Fresh Greek food in a bright and open space.
Watr at The One Rooftop: Top-notch drinks and food with views of South Beach.
Rao's Miami Beach: Authentic Italian food with a NYC feel (original restaurant in NYC).
Koko by Bakan (in Coconut Grove): Mexican food and the best tequila drinks.
MILA: Asian fusion food with a show at night.
Marion Miami: Stylish American Asian fusion food with a show.
Drinks:Sugar Rooftop: Outdoor rooftop bar with views of Brickell.
The Roof at Esme: Located in a boutique hotel on South Beach with drinks and Latin/Spanish food.
The Living Room: Lounge/cocktail bar at the Faena Hotel with first class cocktails and live music.
Gitano: Also part of Casa Faena Hotel. Rooftop bar with views of South Beach and a disco ball.
Nikki Beach: Get some sun and drinks and lounge on a beach bed. Located near the beach if you want to hop in the ocean.
Tea Room: Restaurant and speakeasy with amazing views of Brickell.
Travel Advisor
Samantha Vanderhorst
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Things to do in the Adirondacks — Lake Placid.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Miami.