An Insiders Pocket Guide to The Magic City

Exploring the Interconnected Arteries of the Heart

If Miami took the shape of a word, it would be that of 'transformation.'

There are rare places in the world where you can see the imprints of history blend in the current landscape of its culture and environment in such a charming, eclectic, and effortlessly elegant way.

Powered by a visionary and creative community that is bursting at the seams — in the best way — Miami is a city in constant rebirth. Regardless of which cultural artery floats your boat as you venture off to explore the dynamic layers of this city, it's impossible not to fall under its spell once you truly feel its pulse.

To follow is a few of the enclaves we love full of places to delve into, people to meet, and enough bonhomie to make you want to return again and again.

Illustrated map of Miami neighborhoods including Design District, Wynwood, Downtown, Brickell, Little Havana, and South Beach

Neighborhoods

Key Biscayne: Island Paradise

Tropical oasis with stellar outdoor activity options. You will feel like you are in your own private island during the week. Beaches are a thing, but there are also plenty of boating opportunities, state parks with serene nature/biking trails and local eateries famous for their food as well as their idyllic location.

Downtown: Old Meets New

Miami's bustling epicenter, packed with gleaming skyscrapers, sweeping bay views, and hidden places to explore. It's a neighborhood of layers—decades of history overlapping and colliding with modern architectonic presence. The Arts & Entertainment district hosts world-class cultural attractions, museums, stellar dining options and epic music venues.

Brickell: Stately Elegance

Sometimes referred to as the "Manhattan of the south", Brickell is a fresh take on the progressive city. Defined by its multicultural ambience, global dining and bar scene, towering skyscrapers, and chic hotels set across a breezy bay. Follow the bay path across Brickell Key all the way to downtown for a unique experience.

Wynwood/Midtown : Art & Soul

Former industrial wasteland turned outdoor museum, where colorful, provocative murals of street & graffiti art hug the blocks of a creative culture in constant motion. Get lost in its funky layers of art, food, music, bars, indie shops, artisan vendors and community projects. Pass by Overtown to experience the spirit of Miami's African-American historic roots in one of its oldest neighborhoods.

Miami Beach: Hot Spot Day or Night

Miami Beach is a playground when it comes to beaches, dining, nightlife, spas and restaurants. Many of the hottest spots on the beach are found inside hotels. Whether it's a laidback local crowd, a glitzy see-and-be-seen scene or late night revelry, make your way to explore it from south to mid to north. Art Deco district on the south.

Design District: Cultured & Curated

Mecca for high-end fashion, funky art, haute design, architecture, inventive dining & bars, creative entertainment, and specialty shops ranging from cherubic and retro to progressive and indie. It's historic neighbor nextdoor, Upper Buena Vista has corners full of quaint charm under Banyan trees and architectural styles from the 1920s land boom.

Downtown: Old Meets New

Miami's bustling epicenter, packed with gleaming skyscrapers, sweeping bay views, and hidden places to explore. It's a neighborhood of layers—decades of history overlapping and colliding with modern architectonic presence. The Arts & Entertainment district hosts world-class cultural attractions, museums, stellar dining options and epic music venues.

Brickell: Stately Elegance

Sometimes referred to as the "Manhattan of the south", Brickell is a fresh take on the progressive city. Defined by its multicultural ambience, global dining and bar scene, towering skyscrapers, and chic hotels set across a breezy bay. Follow the bay path across Brickell Key all the way to downtown for a unique experience.

Wynwood/Midtown : Art & Soul

Former industrial wasteland turned outdoor museum, where colorful, provocative murals of street & graffiti art hug the blocks of a creative culture in constant motion. Get lost in its funky layers of art, food, music, bars, indie shops, artisan vendors and community projects. Pass by Overtown to experience the spirit of Miami's African-American historic roots in one of its oldest neighborhoods.

Miami Beach: Hot Spot Day or Night

Miami Beach is a playground when it comes to beaches, dining, nightlife, spas and restaurants. Many of the hottest spots on the beach are found inside hotels. Whether it's a laidback local crowd, a glitzy see-and-be-seen scene or late night revelry, make your way to explore it from south to mid to north. Art Deco district on the south.

Design District: Cultured & Curated

Mecca for high-end fashion, funky art, haute design, architecture, inventive dining & bars, creative entertainment, and specialty shops ranging from cherubic and retro to progressive and indie. It's historic neighbor nextdoor, Upper Buena Vista has corners full of quaint charm under Banyan trees and architectural styles from the 1920s land boom.

Key Biscayne: Island Paradise

Tropical oasis with stellar outdoor activity options. You will feel like you are in your own private island during the week. Beaches are a thing, but there are also plenty of boating opportunities, state parks with serene nature/biking trails and local eateries famous for their food as well as their idyllic location.

Pocket Guide

Caracas Bakery | MiMo

Venezuelan-French bakery and coffeehouse offering croissants, breakfast fare, and specialty breads.

Mandolin | design district

A 1930s-era house with patio seating sets the stage for refined versions of Greek and Turkish cuisine.

Wynwood/Midtown : Art & Soul

Former industrial wasteland turned outdoor museum, where colorful, provocative murals of street & graffiti art hug the blocks of a creative culture in constant motion. Get lost in its funky layers of art, food, music, bars, indie shops, artisan vendors and community projects. Pass by Overtown to experience the spirit of Miami's African-American historic roots in one of its oldest neighborhoods.

Miami Beach: Hot Spot Day or Night

Miami Beach is a playground when it comes to beaches, dining, nightlife, spas and restaurants. Many of the hottest spots on the beach are found inside hotels. Whether it's a laidback local crowd, a glitzy see-and-be-seen scene or late night revelry, make your way to explore it from south to mid to north. Art Deco district on the south.

Brickell: Stately Elegance

Sometimes referred to as the "Manhattan of the south", Brickell is a fresh take on the progressive city. Defined by its multicultural ambience, global dining and bar scene, towering skyscrapers, and chic hotels set across a breezy bay. Follow the bay path across Brickell Key all the way to downtown for a unique experience.

Sunny's Steakhouse | Little River

Sunny's is rooted as a steakhouse and executed through a contemporary lens reflective of its Miami locale. Menu boasts raw bar selections, wood-fired proteins, steakhouse classics from an in-house dry-aging program, handmade pastas, and more. Read More

Pastis | Wynwood

Classic French fare such as steak frites and escargot served in a chic dining room and bar.

Mamo | Brickell

Established in 2015 in SoHo, MAMO takes its name from Mikaël "Mamo" Mammoliti and brings signature Italian favorites to Miami.

Maty's | Midtown

Casual yet upscale restaurant serving refined versions of traditional Peruvian fare.

Dining Guide

Curated Dining Across Miami

Caracas Bakery | MiMo

Venezuelan-French bakery and coffeehouse offering croissants, breakfast fare, and specialty breads.

Sunny's Steakhouse | Little River

Sunny's is rooted as a steakhouse and executed through a contemporary lens reflective of its Miami locale. Menu boasts raw bar selections, wood-fired proteins, steakhouse classics from an in-house dry-aging program, handmade pastas, and more. Read More

Maty's | Midtown

Casual yet upscale restaurant serving refined versions of traditional Peruvian fare.

Casa Neos | Overtown

Modern Mediterranean dining in an upscale setting with rooftop seating and live music.

Hillstone | Bal Harbour

This large, chic American eatery on the 2nd floor of Bal Harbour Shops with an alfresco patio bar.

Mandolin | design district

A 1930s-era house with patio seating sets the stage for refined versions of Greek and Turkish cuisine.

Contessa | Design District

Glamorous venue in the Miami Design District offering classic Northern Italian dishes.

Macchialina | Miami Beach

Vibrant trattoria presenting rustic Italian recipes in a stylish, brick-walled setting.

Mamo | Brickell

Established in 2015 in SoHo, MAMO takes its name from Mikaël "Mamo" Mammoliti and brings signature Italian favorites to Miami.

Madruga | Coconut grove

Baked goods, including baguettes, croissants, and cakes, plus sandwiches and salads.

Mila | Miami Beach

High-end Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine in a flamboyant venue with a stylish cocktail bar.

Pastis | Wynwood

Classic French fare such as steak frites and escargot served in a chic dining room and bar.

Makoto | bal harbour

Sleek, elegant restaurant serving modern, upscale Japanese entrees, sushi, and robata dishes.

Curated Dining Lists

BRUNCH / AM

  • All Day
  • Tigertail+Mary
  • Zak the Baker
  • Morgans
  • Pura vida
  • Lulu's
  • GreenStreet
  • Peacock Garden
  • Tina in the Gable
  • The Daily
  • Michael's
  • Ariete
  • OTL
  • MIAM
  • Libertino

A SEASIDE AFFAIR

  • Joia Beach
  • Seaspice
  • Kiki on the River
  • Rusty Pelican
  • Deck Island Garden
  • Joia Beach Club
  • Lido @ The Standard
  • Wave @ 1 Hotel

LOUNGE & DINE

  • Juvia
  • Quinto La Huella
  • Komodo
  • Beaker & Gray
  • PM fish & steakhouse
  • Sushi by Bou
  • Katsuya
  • Byblos
  • Amara at Paraiso
  • Hachidori Ramen Bar
  • Mayami
  • Mexicantina & Bar

MELTING POT

  • Ayesha Saffron
  • Balloo
  • Jaguar Sun
  • Meraki Greek Bistro
  • Bombay Darbar
  • Uno French de Coconut
  • Old Havana – Calle 8
  • Havana 1957
  • Bakan
  • Cheen Huaye
  • Dale
  • Mondongo
  • The Daily Bread
  • Phuc Yea
  • Tran An

COZY & CASUAL

  • Sherwoods
  • Casa Tua
  • 33 Kitchen
  • The Local House
  • Lemoni
  • A La Folie
  • Glass & Vine
  • Soya e Pomodora
  • Portobello
  • Sapore di Mare
  • La Barceloneta
  • Noa Cafe
  • Villagio – Merrick
  • Prima Pasta
  • Blue Collar
  • Pisco y Nazca
  • Ceviche 105
  • Pinch Kitchen
  • Books & Books

QUICK BITES

  • Mister 01 – Pizza
  • Leggenda – Pizza
  • Andiamo – Pizza
  • Lokal – Burger
  • Crave – Burger
  • Burgerfi – Burger
  • Doggi's Arepa Bar
  • Hometown BBQ
  • Clove – Mediterranean
  • Coyo – Tacos

LOFTY

  • Estiatorio Milos
  • Le Sirenuse
  • Zucca
  • La Mar
  • Zuma
  • La Piaggia
  • Il Gabbiano
  • Swan

SUSHI

  • Kraken Crudo
  • Kraken Omakase
  • Hiden
  • Ichimi
  • Wabi Sabi
  • Obba Sushi
  • 26 Sushi & Tapas
  • Sushi Erica
  • Katanas
  • Omakai
  • Sushi Garage
  • Sushi By Bou
  • Hiyakawa Miami

AFTER PARTY

  • La Latina
  • Moshi Moshi
  • La Sandwicherie

PARTY & DINE

  • Cantina la 20
  • Marion
  • Baoli
  • Bagatelle
  • Dolores Lolita
  • Pepito's Plaza
  • Over Under

VEGAN+

  • Dirt
  • Shido
  • Love Life Cafe
  • Pura Vida
  • Plant
  • Plant Theory
  • Dellas Bowls
  • Apple a Day
  • La Plantisserie
  • Soul Tavern
  • Planta SoBe
  • Full Bloom
  • Carrot Express
  • Dr. Smood
  • Under the Mango Tree
  • Guarapo
  • Charlie Vegan Tacos
  • The Vegan Choice
  • Thatch Miami
  • Holi Vegan Kitchen
  • Plnthouse @ 1 Hotel

Nightlife

Lagniappe | Midtown

Live jazz, wine shop vibes, and a hidden garden — one of Miami's most beloved cozy escapes. Read More

Living room | Faena Hotel Miami Beach

An intimate cocktail lounge inside the Faena with plush seating, curated spirits, and a sophisticated oceanfront mood. Read More

Socialista Miami | Downtown

A sultry, candlelit lounge above downtown — Cuban-inspired cocktails and a glamorous after-dark atmosphere. Read More

Kaido | design district

Japanese-inspired small plates and a moody bar program in the Design District — ideal for date night and late dinners. Read More

Sugar | brickell

Rooftop lounge with skyline views, lush greenery, and inventive Asian-inspired cocktails. Read More

Minibar @ Urbanica | miami beach

A pocket-sized cocktail bar with creative drinks and a neighborhood feel steps from the beach. Read More

Better days | brickell

Dive-bar charm meets craft cocktails in a fun, unfiltered hangout with a loyal Brickell crowd. Read More

The wharf | little havana

Open-air riverfront venue with live music, food trucks, and waterfront cocktails — a go-to for groups. Read More

Gale shaker | Miami Beach

Award-winning cocktails in a tropical backyard setting behind the Freehand hotel. Read More

Lobby Bar @ the Betsy | Miami Beach

Classic hotel bar with live jazz, ocean views, and expertly crafted cocktails on Ocean Drive. Read More

Naoecco | Brickell

Intimate lounge with refined cocktails, polished service, and a see-and-be-seen Brickell crowd. Read More

Casa Florida | Little Havana

Tropical courtyard bar with live music, rum cocktails, and Old Florida charm. Read More

The Sylvester | little river

Playful neighborhood spot with creative drinks, music, and a colorful local vibe. Read More

Gramps | Wynwood

Eclectic Wynwood bar with live music, drag shows, and a laid-back local following. Read More

Lost Boy | Downtown

Casual downtown staple with craft cocktails and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Read More

Miami Guide

Curated Bar Selection

Lagniappe | Wynwood

Live jazz, wine shop vibes, and a hidden garden — one of Miami's most beloved cozy escapes.

Broken Shaker | Miami Beach

Award-winning cocktails in a tropical backyard setting behind the Freehand hotel.

Sugar | EAST Miami

Rooftop lounge with skyline views, lush greenery, and inventive Asian-inspired cocktails.

The Regent @ Gale Hotel

Lofty, glamorous cocktail bar with polished service and a see-and-be-seen crowd.

Lost Boy | Downtown

Casual downtown staple with craft cocktails and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Watr @ 1 Hotel

Bayfront rooftop with sunset views, poolside energy, and elevated coastal cocktails.

Gramps | Wynwood

Eclectic Wynwood bar with live music, drag shows, and a laid-back local following.

Komodo | Brickell

High-energy lounge and restaurant with dramatic interiors and a vibrant nightlife scene.

The Anderson | Upper East Side

Retro-cool neighborhood bar with creative drinks and an unpretentious Miami spirit.

Jaguar Sun | Downtown

Intimate cocktail den known for thoughtful drinks and a warm, speakeasy feel.

Area 31 | Downtown

Rooftop perch above the Miami River with panoramic views and polished cocktails.

Better Days | Wynwood

Dive-bar charm meets craft cocktails in a fun, unfiltered Wynwood hangout.

Curated Bar Lists

COZY

  • Lagniappe – Live Jazz
  • Broken Shaker
  • Boho
  • Minibar at Urbanica
  • The New Yorker
  • The Sylvester
  • The Anderson
  • Jaguar Sun
  • Casa Florida
  • Le Chat Noir

LOFTY

  • The Regent @ Gale Hotel
  • Rose Bar @ Delano Hotel
  • MO Lounge @ Mandarin Oriental
  • The Living Room – Faena
  • Tree of Life – Faena
  • Saxony Bar – Faena

CASUAL

  • Aficionados
  • Lost Boy
  • Veza Sur
  • The Wharf
  • Focal Beer Cafe
  • Wood Tavern
  • Barter Wynwood
  • Wynwood Brewing
  • Concrete Beach
  • J Wakefield
  • Veza Sur
  • American Social
  • Gramps
  • Segafredo L'originale
  • Neme Gastrobar
  • Blackbird

ROOFTOP

  • Sugar @ East Hotel
  • Watr @ 1 Hotel
  • Altitude @ SLS
  • Astra
  • Bloom Skybar
  • N.3 Social
  • Area 31
  • Bar Bevy

KARAOKE

  • Kill Your Idol (casual)
  • Bay Club (chic)

DIVE BARS

  • Lost Weekend
  • The Corner
  • Better Days
  • Baby Jane
  • Ricky's
  • Deuce in the Hole

LOUNGE

  • Sunset Lounge @ The Mondrian
  • Lido Bar & Lounge & Standard
  • Cantina la 20
  • Margot Natural Wine Bar
  • Kaido
  • Barsecco
  • Baoli
  • Komodo
  • Pool Bar – The Vagabond Motel
  • Socialista
  • Chica

Miami in Its Natural Form

Historic Virginia Key Beach | key biscayne

For a truly unique and more seclude and whimsical beach experience, this is the best spot. Wonderful to spend the entire day having a picnic, exploring nature trails, biking trails or paddle boarding routes until sunset. Virginia Key Outdoor Center facilitates rentals for bikes, paddle boards and kayaks. A must go. Rent the adorable pastel colored huts in this secluded beach.

Crandon Beach | key biscayne

One of Miami's greatest park treasures. Play beach volleyball, unpack a picnic and use the on-site grills, and catch kite surfers on windy days. Explore ecosystems as you walk north to Bear Cut Preserve. Grab a bucket from the Fill a Bag post if you feel like strolling and collecting plastic from the beach.

Bear cut preserve | key biscayne

Tucked away at the very northern end of Crandon Park we find this precious slice of natural Bayfront in Miami. The preserve provides footpath trails (Fossil Reef Trail) along the waterfront that intertwine with paved biking trails, ending up at an overlook of Fossil Reef with a backdrop of downtown Miami and Virginia Key. Right before the preserve you can access a secluded little beach area with sand banks for days.

Sunset harbor on a sup | miami beach

Rent a SUP at Miami Beach Paddle Board to explore the bay amidst designer and celebrity homes. Guided sunset tours available. Experienced paddlers can venture to Monument Island for a unique adventure.

Cape florida state park | key biscayne

At the southern tip of Key Biscayne sits this lovely beach park with bike and nature trails leading to the historic 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse. Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Stiltsville, and Biscayne Bay atop the lighthouse Monday, Thursday, and Friday at 10 am and 1 pm (viewable from outside anytime). Rent bikes at the Lighthouse Cafe and access the beach at four points. Grab a beer, lunch, or dinner at Boater's Grill in No Name Harbor for a stellar sunset.

Oleta river state park | north miami

Set against Biscayne Bay, this protected river estuary hosts a range of outdoor activities. Opt for guided eco-excursions by kayak or paddleboard along native mangroves, or ride through 15 miles of off-road bicycling trails (novice to challenging).

Fairchild Tropical Garden | Coral Gables

One of the best botanical gardens in the world. Get lost in trails, scents, and beauty. In December, the NightGarden immersive, interactive experience is a must.