image by kirby collins

today’s city guide belongs to a town much sunnier and warmer than where i am right now: miami, florida. brought to us by miami local, kendra borja (who runs a
public relations and communications consulting business), this miami guide is part of of two and is dedicated to two areas: south beach and north miami. i hope you’ll enjoy her guide to shopping, eating and entertainment in miami. stay tuned for part two! click here for the full guide, or just click “read more” below.

as always, if you feel like your favorites are missing please feel free to leave your recommendations in the comment section below.

Miami Design Guide Part 1 – South Beach and North Miami

“A long time ago, I immersed myself in Miami. I have yet to come up for air” – Avner Zabari, Furniture Designer

Forgetting past stereotypes of sleepy retirement communities and neighborhoods filled with vice, Miami is maturing into a city filled with culture, art and endless opportunities. Primarily a playground for adults, the city offers gorgeous beaches, pulsing nightclubs, premier shopping and world-class dining. Visitors are now drawn to Miami by the almost electric energy in the mix of languages, ideas and music.

To fully understand this transition one must go beneath the surface and look at the influences inspiring this change. The soul of Miami is not in the club on South Beach or the hotel on Ocean Drive. They are merely the grand expressions of the smaller cultural shifts taking place in neighborhoods like Calle Ocho, Little Haiti and Biscayne Blvd. This is where Miami makes its home and here you will find the artists and designers at the forefront of their fields.

After years spent living in a town dotted with one chain store after another, it was delightful to discover the countless number of Miami’s locally owned businesses – thanks again to the cultural diversity that inspires them. Sadly, many seem to come and go with each passing hurricane and to list them all here would create a book rather than a blog. Yet, it is in these small businesses that I would like to focus this article. That means that I will consciously leave out many larger, trendier or more glamorous hotels, dining spots and a few galleries that many people associate with Miami, but any bookstore travel guide covers these institutions in depth. For the first time visitor, I do encourage you to go to experience the more famous Miami institutions, but also leave room for the heart of Miami found in the artisans and proprietors of its local shops.

South Beach (SOBE)

The fun of South Beach lies in its extremes. One can eat extremely good food, visit extremely trendy spaces and watch extremely pretty people stroll the streets wearing extremely little. South Beach remains the piece d’resistance of so many things that bring millions of visitors to Miami.

For the full Miami experience, don’t miss a walk down Ocean Drive and Collins Ave to take in the fabulous Art Deco buildings and hotels. Eat at the famed Joe’s Stone Crab, Blue Door or Casa Tua. Have a post dinner drink at the Shore Club or Rokbar and dance the night away at clubs- of-the-moment like Mynt and Set. Also be sure to visit the Lincoln Rd. Mall where you will find a plethora of shopping and dining options. (If you are there on a Sunday, check out the farmers along Lincoln Rd. and Espanola Way)

In looking for design, skyrocketing rents in South Beach have sent many local businesses and designers flocking to the more affordable Design District and Biscayne Blvd areas, (We will be detailing these neighborhoods in future Miami guides) yet the flavor of local Miami can still be found in the found in the following:

SOBE Shopping:

-Agora, 640 Lincoln Rd. – When thinking of Miami Beach, one might not think of all things East Asian, but that is what you will find at this furniture and accessories import shop on Lincoln Rd. Look for wooden Budas, Chinese garden stools, and Asian Style armoires all handmade in Indonesia, China and India. Also check out their larger furniture warehouse at 611 NW 72nd St.

-Quadro, 1753 Alton Rd. – There’s something for everyone in this charming store just around the corner from the bustle of Lincoln Rd. The sole US outpost of a larger Mexican company, Quadro carries an excellent selection of lamps, small furniture, accessories and art in every price range. Need that unique piece to bring life to a boring bookshelf? – This is the place to come.

-Nest, 1020 Lincoln Rd. – Clean lines and neutral colors dominate the contemporary furnishings at this store on Lincoln Rd. Think Restoration Hardware meets chic upscale Miami Beach, but be prepared for a heftier price tag.

-Biltmore Domicile, 1700 Alton Rd. – Specializing in custom furniture and sliding doors, this is best bet for the perfect upholstered headboard or sofa in your choice of over 1,000 fabrics. Prices are surprisingly affordable and the salespeople are very helpful.

-Spiaggia, 1624A Alton Rd. – Spiaggia means “beach” in Italian and this store caters to the - trend of the moment - SOBE style. Ultra modern leather sofas and minimalist dining sets made from metal and glass are affordably priced.

-Moblas, 1620 Alton Rd. – Just two doors down from Spiaggia (See above), Moblas continues the modern, streamlined aesthetic. The furniture selection would work well in small spaces and, with affordable prices; this is a great place to bring home SOBE style.

-BASE Annex, 927 Lincoln Rd. – This store has it all – Art, Home Accessories, Books, Clothes and Music! Yet, while it could be overwhelming, it is exactly the opposite. Careful editing and an understated understanding of all things “cool,” BASE Annex is redefining the definition of a retail store (What do you mean it has an-house singer-songwriter/production team?!) Especially for the men in your life, this is a SOBE must visit.

-Circle Art at Home, 1560 Lenox Ave. Suite 101 – For those that fall in love with Miami’s style, take it home with you with a piece from this boutique. Designer, Jesse Brody mixes modern furniture with African and oriental accents for a creative look.

-Britto Central, 818 Lincoln Rd. – Pop culture icon and Miami-based artist, Romero Britto, showcases his world-renowned work in this Lincoln Rd. gallery.

-Senzatempo, 1680 Michigan Ave – If you love mid-century modern and are looking for the real deal, you will find it at Senzatempo. Vintage Knoll, Saarinen and Ponti as well as a host of others can be found. (Note that the website still lists their old address – the correct address is above)

Notable Mentions:

With only a handful of stores in the US, one would be remiss to not mention the Jonathan Adler (1024 Lincoln Rd) and Marimekko (1671 Meridian Ave) stores in South Beach. Devoted fans rejoice!

Other Fun Stuff in SOBE:

-Dogbar, 1684 Jefferson Ave. — For anyone who’s ever loved a dog, this is possible the best pet store anywhere! Designer leashes – check, organic raw-diet food – check, the “I love my two daddies” doggie T-Shirt – you will find it all here. Pricier than Petsmart, but what’s a little extra money when you are having this much fun!

-Genius Jones, 1661 Michigan Ave. – Not your average toy store, Genius Jones stocks designer togs, unique toys, games and furniture for children. Yes, they really do have a Keith Haring rocker and look for the Lou Lou Ghost Chair – a “baby” version of Phillip Starck’s famous chair.

-Chroma, 920 Lincoln Rd. – A gem of a store that stocks the newest trends in fashion by up-and-coming designers. Unique, fun and decidedly trendy, the prices are definitely more than your corner department store, but you can take comfort in the fact that most items are limited edition pieces.

-Brownes & Co. , 841 Lincoln Rd. – Salon, Spa and Apothecary, this is your one-stop beauty emporium stocked with the best selection of name brand make-up and beauty products. Head upstairs to the “Some Like it Hot” salon for a post-beach pedicure or a pre-party hair styling.

-Books & Books, 933 Lincoln Rd. — If you are looking for something specific, skip this bookstore and head straight for the nearest library or Barnes and Noble. However, if you are in the mood to browse Books and Books and the accompanying Lincoln Rd. cafe is the perfect shop in which to idle away a few hours. Check out their wide selection of offbeat coffee table books, graphic novels and special selection of indie literature.

Further Afield:

-Bal Harbor Shops, 9700 Collins Ave – Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous spring to life in this posh open-air mall. Chanel, Chloe, Harry Winston and Dior – The setting is equally as pretty as the products in the stores.

Also Don’t Miss:

-Art Deco Historic District, Welcome Center at 1200 Ocean Drive – Take a tour of Miami’s Art Deco buildings (The largest concentration in the US) and learn about their history and influence on architecture worldwide.

Where to Eat in SOBE:

-Gourmet Carrot, 959 West Ave. – Healthy food for people who don’t like healthy food. At the Gourmet Carrot one does not have to choose between a dish that is good for you and a dish that will actually taste good. All entrees are kosher and the Mediterranean, Israeli inspired cuisine is creative and will not leave you feeling hungry. Soups and humus are both fantastic and the generous salad that comes with any wrap or sandwich turns a light lunch into a heartier meal.

-The Standard, 40 Island Ave. – In thinking of Miami hotels, most people would readily name the Delano, the Raleigh, the Setai or the newly reopened Fontainebleau. Yet, my personal favorite remains, The Standard. Perhaps as someone so draw to design, I can’t help but love the hotel that inspires the decoration of my own home. Unlike most South Beach hotels which “wow” the senses, their other-worldly design, while extraordinary, would hardly be practical in my modest house. At the Standard, one is greeted by a Danish modern credenza; rocking chairs dot the lobby and the coolest bayside bar and garden grotto lie hidden within. The beauty of the Standard lies in the detail of design that inspire quiet moments and an experience uniquely Miami and uniquely personal. (In addition to the bayside restaurant/bar, be sure to check out the amazing spa)

-Epicure Market, 1656 Alton Rd. – Little about the plain and unobtrusive front hints at the tremendous hustle and bustle that lies within, but for those with a gourmet pallet, Epicure is the place to shop for European cheese, fine wines, cured meats and fresh baked pastries. If you hate to cook, Epicure also stocks an outstanding selection of pre-made entrees (Smoked Fish, Matzoh Ball Soup or Veal Meatloaf to name a few).

-Sylvano, 820 Alton Rd. – You won’t find many tourists in the Alton Rd location of Sylvano Carrara’s restaurant. Locals flock to this little eatery where a Margarita Pizza will cost you $7.95, a price far below what most will find in South Beach. And, while many people will pay far more for substandard fare, the food at Sylvano is consistently good and the service friendly.

-Nexxt Café – A huge menu and a prime location on Lincoln Rd. make this restaurant a crowd pleaser. Come with an appetite as the portions are huge and enjoy watching the passing parade of SOBE shoppers and tourists.

-Ice Box, 1657 Michigan Ave – Yes, you CAN eat a full meal here, but in my mind this place is all about dessert. And, with cakes named “The Bomb,” “Chocolate Nemesis” and “Sour Cream-Pecan Coffee Cake,” who can argue?

North Miami

After years of neglect, North Miami is experiencing an urban renewal and a growing number of interior designers are setting up shop along 125th St. – the next “hip” avenue lined with Americana style shop fronts and ambling pedestrians. This area lies parallel to Bal Harbor and is 15 minute cab ride or drive from South Beach.

-Stripe Vintage, 861 NE 125 St. – Fall in love with a unique piece at this charming shop. With two locations mere steps from each other, Stripe focuses on the “beach chic” and “vintage modern” aesthetic. Find Bertoia chairs, Danish Sofas and 50s era lamps. Also be sure to check out their wares on 1stdibs!

-Artistic Antiques and Modern Design, 849 NE 125th St – A large and beautiful collection of Art Deco and Mid-Century modern pieces fill the space in this newly relocated gallery. This shop carries a nice collection of larger scale antiques that would work well in open space or loft settings.

-Vermillion, 765 NE 125th St. – The pages of your favorite magazine spread spring to life in this gallery/shop that specializes in mid-century modern furnishings and antiques. Be on the lookout for their excellent selection of table lamps and ceramic accessories utilizing bold bursts of color.

-Marc Corbin, 875 NE 125th St., — A delightful shop run by the interior designer of the same name, Marc specializes in colorful Miami interiors with whimsical flourishes. (Tiny Victorian era dancing pig figurines) Also, be sure to ask about his exclusive line of French wallpapers and fabrics.

-Art Modern, 781 NE 125th St. – Easy to miss, but worth finding, Art Modern stocks a unique collection of original antiques and artwork at reasonable prices. Plycraft lounge chairs and vintage LC-2 Sofas can be found. Even better, these fabulous antiques can also be purchased through the store’s in house lay-away.

-Gustavo Olivieri Antiques, 750 NE 125th St. – Soon to relocate to what was once a Starbucks, Gustavo Olivieri carries an immaculate collection of fine antiques, chandeliers and furniture, many featuring polished metal and glass finishes.

-DKOR Interiors, 709 125th St. – Uber modern décor and environmentally friendly products. This full service design group offers custom furniture, bedding, window treatments and rugs.

-Ambrosino Art Gallery, 769 NE 125th St. – Contemporary art gallery featuring a number of local Miami artists.

Notable Mention:

-Belvair, 859 NE 125th St., — Word on the street is that this boutique is going through some changes and the store was not open during my rounds, however, their collection can be seen on 1stdibs and be sure to look for them on future visits.

Further Afield:

-Douglas Gardens Thrift Shop, 5713 NW 27th Ave. – Off the beaten path, but worth a visit, this clean and well-organized store collects an impressive quantity of glassware, table linens and second hand furniture. On a recent visit, I spotted Hollywood Regency style nightstands, a Danish Modern sideboard and mid-century modern armchairs priced well below similar pieces listed on eBay.

Also Don’t Miss:

-The Museum of Contemporary Art, 770 NE 125th St.

-C. Madeline’s, 13702 Biscayne Blvd. – Your mother and grandmother’s closets were never so chic! Find a breathtaking collection of vintage clothing and accessories at this Miami institution. The store’s proprietor, Madeline, has amassed a museum quality collection and her unerring eye for finding pieces that best represent the beauty of their original era and yet hold relevance for today have garnered her celebrity clientele and a devoted fan base.

North Miami Dining:

-Lorenzo’s Italian American Market – A paradise for all who love Italian cuisine. This store carries a large selection of everyday and hard to find Italian ingredients. Anchovies of every possible variety are allotted 10 ft. of shelf space and there is an entire aisle devoted to varying sizes, shapes and colors of pasta noodles. Also, be sure to check out the excellent selection of imported cheese, wine and European chocolate.

-Hiro’s Yakko-San, 1740 West Dixie Hwy – If you are looking for sushi, some of the best can be had at a number of swanky South Beach institutions (Nobu), however, if you are open to a non-sushi alternative, Yakko-San’s dishes up some of the best Japanese food in the city. Plates are served tapas style, so order a few to share. Favorites are the Crispy Bok Choy, Deep Fried Asian Eggplant and, for dessert, the green ice tea with sweet red bean sundae.

-The Big Squeeze –This eatery occupies what was once a rail-side juice shack that catered to thirsty rail line workers. Today, the Big Squeeze is great for a breakfast on the go and, not forgetting their early beginnings, they whip up fabulous smoothies and juices. Care for a shot of juiced wheat grass? You can get it here. For more conventional (yummier) options, try the carrot banana or almond peanut butter smoothie.

-Dogma, 899 NE 125th St. – Love them or hate them, hot dogs seem to inspire divisive (or somewhat suspicious) opinions in many people. However, with your choice of beef, turkey or veggie and over 15 different hotdog creations, Dogma has won over many skeptics. The Cali, Pomodoro and Tropical dogs are favorites.