INN & OUT: MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA
We could go on and on about fabulous places worth a visit on Miami Beach, but here are a few we highly recommend.
HOTELS
Deco House: If hotel prices are keeping you from booking that trip to the beach… stay with us! We’ve got a little piece of Miami Beach history as well (1941 to be exact), but at a fraction of the price comparably to the classic resorts across the street. Nestled across the street from beach access w/ the Miami Edition, Faena and Broken Shaker all around the block, this Deco styled Miami Beach condo is where we stay upon our visits… decorated by, us!
Nautilus Hotel: Built by Morris Lapidus (Fountain Bleu, Eden Roc) in 1951, this slice of history features beautiful ocean front suites, a stunning lobby bar, a classic pool deck with a bamboo outdoor hallway which leads right to the beach.
Gale South Beach & Regent Hotel: Linked in 1964 and renovated in 2012, this hotel pays tribute to its roots donning photos of wartime Miami and 1940’s glamour. Be sure to make time for the rooftop pool, we recommend early in the morning or late afternoon for the views and pictures!
Royal Palm Palm: Built in 1939, there are some truly stunning aspects of its architectural roots… but what’s really stunning is you might be able to book here in a pinch with Marriott Bonvoy points (right on the beach).
Goodtime Hotel: Looking for a great pool party? Look no further. Daytime party’s at Strawberry Moon (their pool & restaurant) rival the SLS and add a very instagram-worthy backdrop inside and out. Plus, you can stay here on Marriott Bonvoy points as well!
The Faena: This hotel has an art twist… and I don’t just mean its design (but that, too). There is a theater, museum and live performances almost daily. Everything from burlesque to jazz and everything in between. A daytime cocktail on their patio is lovely! Peep the link, you’ll see!
Tip: Pop in at night mid-week to their ‘Living Room.’ A trip back to the Sinatra days w/ a martini.
Miami Edition: This is where we work from whenever we’re staying at our Deco House Air BNB. Located in Mid-Beach, its a little oasis of luxury in a quiet Miami Beach neighborhood. A great little coffee & market, The Matador Restaurant & Bar and a stunning pool just steps from the beach. Another Marriott Bonvoy property so one can earn & stay at the same time.
Fountaine Bleu: If you’re the type that never wants to venture to far from grounds of your resort, this place is all you. You can see evidence of its enriched Miami history dating back to its birth in 1954 (see all the pics of Sinatra and the Rat Pack along your walk to the valet) along with one of the greatest spas, multiple pools, bars and 12 restaurants right on campus. See one of them below!
DINING
Prime 112: In an area known as Sofi (south of fifth), is an exquisite steakhouse that doesn’t just stop at steaks. Their chicken and waffles dish is decadent! Be sure to get reservations as it can get packed.
(Tip: Their sister restaurant Prime Italian, also fantastic, will occasionally send over their appetizer “big meatball” if you ask)
Joe's Stone Crab: Also in Sofi (not far from Prime 112), this classic gem is worth the trip on its own, but only during stone crab season! Not only are the crabs incredible, but the hash-browns that come with it are out of this world!
(Tip: if you eat on the early side you’ll be seated quicker)
Macchialina: Not your typical spaghetti & meatball Italian joint, but a unique spin on many dishes. The Cavatelli, Tortelloni di Ricotta & Pappardelle were memorable. The bar is lovely… I had a fantastic Negroni and the wine list is great! Get a rez!
Gitano: Just out the door and 3 blocks north to the left for some modern Mexican flair. Was really impressed with the tapas styled dishes especially; Chorizo Con Queso, Guacamole and Wagyu Albondigas. For a small space, they have a GREAT bar and we highly recommend walking upstairs for a sunset rooftop cocktail. We were able to get in on the early side without a reservation, but you might try making one!
Carbone: Haven’t tried their spicy rigatoni in NYC or Vegas?
Try it right here on the beach… quite possibly the best looking Carbone there is!
Mareva 1939: Just walking through the National Hotel is a treat. Like so many other famed deco hotels on the Miami Beach strip, this one shows off its enriched history. We popped into their restaurant for cocktails & apps feeling like we had been dropped in Madrid. We had the croquettes & roasted bone marrow that were so good we will absolutely return!
Tip: Yes, they have Rioja’s but, we’re tough critics on lychee martini’s and these are fantastic!
LIBATIONS
Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery: Small hidden gem underneath the Stiles Hotel on Collins Ave. If you love a good Tiki drink straight out of 1930’s Miami, this is your spot. Its open at 7P until late, but a small joint can fill up quick. Our advice is to get there early!
Monterrey Bar: Located inside of the Standard Hotel (another great recommendation btw if zen-like pools, baths and spas are what you really need) this bar could be the most picturesque of them all. Get there early, the room is small and first-come, first-serve.
Medium-Cool: Located underneath the Gale Hotel (another great recommendation btw, see above) where craft cocktails and club . lounge vibes meet. A little drinking, a little dancing. During peak season the line can get long, so we recommend getting there early.
Sweet Liberty: The most unique, yet incredible Espresso Martini is here! That said, this place has MANY unique cocktails along with just about any classic cocktail you can call out. They also have really unique dishes, killer throwback American music and just a damn good vibe. So much so, we bought one of their jackets!
Mac’s Club Deuce: If fancy drinks just aren’t your thing… perhaps the most un-fancy Miami institution is? The bar dates back to 1926, but in 1964 it was purchased by Mac (a WW2 veteran) who lived to be over 100, passing just a few years ago. His legacy lives on as this bar is VERY preserved… so much so, you’ll need cash to pay for your drinks. This is quite possibly our favorite dive bar left in America. Smoke if ya got em!
If you happen to visit any of these spots let us know your thoughts!
Cheers, gents!
