So many of you have asked about my Miami musts, and I love delving into this layered, multicultural city, so I’m finally sharing my favorites below!
There’s something about the energy here—between the ocean breeze, its unique melting pot, and its ever-evolving art and food scenes—that makes it one of my favorite places to escape to. Whether I’m staying for a weekend or a few weeks, these are the places I return to again and again.
Let’s start with the food…
I’m a creature of habit when it comes to food, and these restaurants are always on my list.
LPM Restaurant & Bar
I always order the sea bass. It’s tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The whole vibe feels like the south of France tucked into Brickell.
Bellini at Mr. C Coconut Grove
Rooftop views, Italian charm, and consistently delicious plates.
Makoto Bal Harbour
Their Braised Beef Yaki Noodles are insanely good, especially after a day at Bal Harbour. The perfect umami-rich comfort dish.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro
A Mediterranean dream. My go-tos: the baklava, manti dumplings, and their signature moussaka. Sit under the bougainvillea and it truly feels like you’re somewhere in the Aegean.
Motek Café
I’m obsessed with their schnitzel bowl. It’s hearty but fresh, and ideal for a quick lunch when you’re bouncing between neighborhoods.
Pastis Miami
The Miami outpost lives up to the NYC original. I always start with the escargots and end with their perfect crème brûlée. Classic, elegant, and never disappoints.
Hillstone Coral Gables
Always reliable, always delicious.
Joe’s Stone Crab
You can’t come to Miami and not go to Joe’s. Stone crabs and their key lime pie are non-negotiable.
Pura Vida
A staple for clean, vibrant meals and juices when I want something light and energizing.
And if you find yourself in Key Biscayne, I love
Kazumi – great for sushi nights
Costa Med Bistro + Wine – a neighborhood gem that always feels relaxed and chic
For a little retail therapy…
Shopping in Miami is next-level. My three essentials:
The Webster
Their curation is unmatched.
Miami Design District
From fashion to design, I always find inspiration here.
Bal Harbour Shops
Still one of the most beautiful places to shop in the world.
And then there’s the art…
Miami’s art scene is reason enough to visit. These are my must-sees:
-
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
-
Nader Sculpture Park
- Fredric Snitzer Gallery
- David Castillo Gallery
- Superblue Miami
- Rubell Museum
- The Bass Museum of Art
- Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami — especially right now, with the Olga de Amaral retrospective, which is breathtaking.
Where to stay?
I always recommend the timeless Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club. It’s elegant, warm, and never goes out of style.
But I’m very excited about the upcoming opening of Aman Miami. I already know it’s going to become a new favorite. Their spaces always combine serenity with soul, and I can't wait to see how they translate that to the energy of this city.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, I hope this little list helps you experience the Miami I love — one plate, gallery, and golden-hour sunset at a time.
-Marcela