…And Yes, I Do Frequent These Miami Spots
1When in Little Havana, one of Miami’s most flavorful neighborhoods, make a pitstop at Cafe La Trova, consistently named one of the best bars in the world. Walk in and you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with locals (and, yes, tourists, but that’s half the fun), all swaying their hips to the live Cuban music. The cantineros—those elite bartenders whose traditions hail from Cuba—craft heavenly cocktails, and the barside bites are delish. On Fridays and Saturdays, once the restaurant closes the kitchen, the space shifts into a lively 80s-themed after-hours destination.
2Over in the leafy Coral Gables neighborhood, where the Mediterranean vibe embraces you, head to the Venetian Pool, which had its grand opening back during the Jazz Age in 1923. Fed by spring waters from an underground aquifer and refilled daily, the pool features two waterfalls and cave-like grottos that I’ve been dipping into since my junior high days (this is the place for stolen kisses, wink-wink). Don’t leave without checking out the 1920s-era beauty contest photos that line the entryway to the pool.
3Yes, everyone wants to head to the beaches that line South Beach, but I prefer heading to Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. There are plenty of spots to duck under a palm tree—so that the sun doesn’t scorch you—and still be steps from the shoreline (get there early!). Grab a covered quadricycle with your family and friends (head to Openseas Cafe to rent them) and cycle around the retro Crandon Park Zoo ruins (look for the gators and crocs). And while at Crandon, head to the Nature Center for self-guided hikes and to learn how the Everglades were preserved.
4Wynwood is overrun by tourists, I know, but you can’t say you’ve been to Miami if you don’t head to one of the neighborhood’s most iconic spots—Gramps. It’s probably one of the coolest places in Miami because it hasn’t lost its gritty edge (nothing swanky about this place and this is how us locals like it). They’re known for their outdoor patio that hosts 80s and 90s dance parties, drag performances, vinyl nights, pizzeria, alfresco dance parties…you name it, Gramps did it first in Wynwood.
5Back in Coral Gables, one of my favorite breakfast and lunch spots—and I’ve been going there since before my 25-year-old was born—is the Gables Juice Bar. It’s a cozy health-focused eatery where the owner’s personality shines through—the walls are lined with music memorabilia as well as eclectic art pieces and the vibe is super laid-back. Oh, yes, and the food is super yummy.
6Step out of Miami’s urban energy and step foot into Old Florida with a visit to Simpson Park, spanning over eight acres and home to native trees and undergrowth. Designated an Old Forest Growth Community, here the buzz of the neighboring Brickell area fades away as you wander the winding paths framed by an untamed landscape. It’s a magical place for taking leisurely strolls and stepping back in time imagining what Miami must’ve been like right before its founding.
7Ever think you’d savor a Godzilla-inspired cocktail? Tucked away at The Citadel food hall’s second floor (and I do mean tucked way in the back) is Bar Kaiju—one of the sweetest bars I’ve ever stepped foot into (and I’ve traveled the world). It’s SUPER intimate and just a lovely spot…and the bartenders are having so much fun crafting the unique drinks. It’s located on this Little River venue’s second floor. There’s also a great vintage store on the first floor you won’t want to miss.
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