Born and raised in Miami, here are some spots and businesses that sit at the top of my must-haves list.
Map
Sections
4
Food
Beauty & Skincare
Entertainment
Shopping
Food
Miami's food scene has a plethora of choices, from humble and delicious to stylish and savory. Here are some spots I've tried and find myself coming back to again and again.
Delicious Peruvian food - ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and more.
Aromas del Peru
Neighborhood gem
Il Bambino Italian Restaurant
Their beef nachos and steak burrito are delicious.
Ernesto's Mexican Taco Shop
Beautiful view of the water. Great food and a nice option for casual brunch.
Verde
Great spot for a weekday lunch. The salmon is one of their top dishes.
The Henry
Little spot with consistently good prices and tasty dishes in the middle of a warehouse area. Great for lunch breaks because they work quickly.
Doral Thai Restaurant
Beautiful Italian spot in Coral Gables with event space upstairs. Reservations highly recommended.
Portosole
This place is a classic must-do at the beach. Order Nutella pancakes - you won't be disappointed.
Big Pink
Local favorite that lives up to the hype. Reservations are highly recommended. If you love truffles, try the potato app.
Luca Osteria – BAR + OSTERIA | CORAL GABLES
Beauty & Skincare
These are the places I continue to use for skincare, makeup, and hair styling for both maintenance and special occasions.
The cold air method they use actually makes it a virtually pain-free experience.
LaserAway Coral Gables
Been a loyal customer for 25 years. Hair by Carlos & Nails by Miya - can't go wrong.
Portfolio Salon
Consistently great hair and makeup for special occasions. Works fast, too
Miami Makeup & Hair Team (@beautybyroseli)
Entertainment
There's no shortage of things to do in this city. Here are some spots my family and I enjoy all the time.
Love this spot. Great snacks and wine, too!
Books & Books
Love their holiday programming, like Zoo Lights and Zoo Boo.
Zoo Miami
Beautiful museum with a great view of the bay and city.
Frost Science Museum
Always a great spot for Broadway shows, classic ballet, and more.
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County
A classic that's been around for nearly 70 years. Family friendly but also a fun, casual date night spot.
Bird Bowl Bowling Center
Fun golf spot even for amateurs. Works well for group outings, corporate events, dates, family night, etc.
Topgolf Miami - Doral
Great little music venue with a stage for bands and an indoor DJ set. The taco truck up front doesn't disappoint. Good vibes all around.
ZeyZey Miami
Chill spot for drinks and music with a tropical vibe.
The Dead Flamingo
Shopping
If you can't find it in Miami, you aren't looking hard enough. Here are some great spots to shop, sip, and dine.
An absolute neighborhood gem. One of my favorite gift and spiritual boutiques. Currently running by appointment only. Reach out to Joanna.
Despojitos Boutique + Gift Shop
Outdoor shopping with designer options. Always lovely decor over the holidays.
Shops at Merrick Park
Another lively spot with tons of dining options and designer shops.
