Since I’ve been down in Miami to attend my daughter’s college graduation, I have seen the city come alive in greater ways than just a few years ago – it’s definitely in high gear now. From shops, to sightseeing, to friendly folks, and to an exuberant dining scene unlike any other I’ve seen in all my trips as head of an NYC PR agency, I can tell you Miami is incomparable.
If you are looking for places to eat that will introduce you to new taste sensation, head to Sugarcane. That’s where we celebrated Justine’s graduation. Sitting outdoors, with the sky settling in at dusk was truly magical. Near the art district of Wynwood, we did it up at this funky place with four kitchens and something for every taste. The crowning achievement in my opinion was the raw shellfish tower, from which we all enjoyed super oysters, and the best crab I have ever had.
We also dined a few times in the Grove, near the University of Miami campus, and as my husband said, you feel like you’re in Europe. With sidewalk tables and umbrellas to shelter from the hot midday summer, we relaxed and relished the scene. The service couldn’t have been friendlier, and the fare was totally satisfying.
For a diversion one afternoon we went to the Fairchild Tropical Gardens in Coconut Grove, which featured a mind-blowing (not to make a pun) display of glass exhibits, everywhere from the ponds to the giant palm forest to the impeccable succulent gardens unlike anywhere else. The natural habitat was a pleasantly subdued environment to hang out in the late afternoon away from the fast paced city.
The Grove is a funky area where you can find organic lunch spots like the Last Carrot mixed in with some high-end stores, and Karma Yoga where I stopped in for a “gently stretchy” class.
We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott since it’s near campus, but one day went to the Ritz-Carlton’s saltwater pool, which was a pleasant surprise. There, I hosted a friend of my daughter’s for a grilled fish luncheon, whom I am referring for a PR job in the big apple.
It’s cool until about nine in the morning and pleasant after three in the afternoon, so make sure you plan accordingly. This is a lovely time to visit this very lively city – actually made up of many districts, all of which have lots to offer. We intend to stop in at the Perez Museum on our way out this afternoon.
More later!