Weekend in Sobe
Two weeks ago, T and I planned a quick getaway to Florida. We considered different locations outside the U.S. but after much research and outreach, we landed on South Beach. With minimal planning and a short flight away, it gave us the break we needed from the never-ending bitter NYC winter, a beach and a cocktail in hand.
We chose to stay at the newer Nautilus hotel that is located in the heart of South Beach, sitting in between the hotels that are known for their pool party scenes, like SLS, but offering somewhat of a hybrid between relaxed and party culture. Daily, the DJ would play an awesome mix of new, funk and soul tunes - so much so that I had to keep whipping out my Shazam app to pull them onto our Spotify account. Mayer Hawthorne, anyone? Um, yes please.
On Thursday, we flew out on the first morning flight (5:50AM!) and before 10AM, we were sitting having breakfast at our hotel's outdoor patio in a breezy 80F degrees. I typically choose to fly Delta but American had the least pricey flights in booking last minute and we were lucky to have no delays on our way there or coming back. Transportation was seamless.
Below are some memorable spots we have enjoyed both from this trip and previous visits. Note that all of Miami Beach puts an automatic 18% tip on the bill. As personal preference, though not necessary, we essentially added whatever was needed to make it an even 20% but a good reminder before heading down!
Cecconi's - Inside the Soho Beach House, I have been here with a larger group of friends for dinner and drinks. I love the ambiance in the courtyard and they make their cacio e pepe in a wheel, tableside!
Jaya - After a day of drinks in the sun, we wanted nothing more than a quick walk to dinner. Inside The Setai, Jaya has the most beautiful open air courtyard. We waiting for our seats at the courtyard bar where our bartender, Eric recommended the truffle dumplings. These did not disappoint and neither did the garlic naan or pad thai. Still dreaming about this dinner.
Taquiza - After receiving this recommendation from a colleague, we actually came back here twice for lunch - it was THAT good. Ordering is done at the counter and you can then take your seat and wait for your order to be ready. Their fried masa chips are out of this world and even though I'm not a huge red meat eater, their Asada tacos were delicious. We washed it all down with a cold cerveza and around lunch time the music is on point.
Broken Shaker - I think it is safe to say that we frequent this spot for drinks while in South Beach. Inside the Freehand, the Broken Shaker is the perfect atmosphere for pre-dinner drinks. You feel like you are in a friend's backyard with a really cool bar situated near their pool.
Twenty Seven - Also inside the Freehand, we have not had dinner here but did have an appetizer or two. This place has a lot of great reviews though I think it might be more for the atmosphere and drinks than the food. Here too, you feel like you are eating in the living room or study of a friend's home. It just has a very cozy, welcoming vibe.
Matador Room - Inside The Edition hotel, the Matador room has a mix of different tastes though the majority of the menu has latin influence. We loved the black truffle pizza as an appetizer.
Juvia - The best view overlooking Miami. We met good friends who came to meet us from Boca here on a Saturday around 6:30PM. We definitely were early enough to beat the crowds and scored the perfect seat right at the balcony's edge.
Nautilus's Poolside Dining - Adding this to our list because on most days we found ourselves ordering midday snacks and multiple drinks, which for me was the "Babe Me Up" - a mix of tequila, Babe rose and simple syrup. We were big fans of the quinoa salad, avocado toast and truffle popcorn.
Others
Hakkasan - Located in the Fountainbleau, this spot has a fun asian menu if you are in the mood for upscale dumplings and noodles.
Joe's Stone Crab - We have heard a lot of positive feedback on this spot but we weren't overly impressed. Not sure if it was the chain-like atmosphere or the food but we are OK with checking this off our list and moving on.
Casa Tua - Beautiful ambiance but overpriced. We'd recommend coming here for a drink and perhaps planning your dinner elsewhere.
Sources: One piece, Solid & Striped; Hat, Janessa Leone; Long Sleeve Button Down, Gap; Beach Pants, Tory Burch; White Cover Up, For Love & Lemons; White Tee & Yoga Pants, Lululemon.
