Frontgate attended the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival in sunny Miami, Florida, as part of our 2023 outdoor launch. Prior to the festival, our team of merchants traveled around Miami, known for being one of the leading cities in the world of design, to explore prominent places for art, culture and design. Here are some of their top recommendations in the Magic City.
Where to get design inspiration
The Miami Design District has a great mixture of home, fashion, architecture, dining and shopping. It also has an unexpected art scene with inspiring installations and sculptures lining the district. Throughout the year you can find public art tours, film festivals and a variety of events where visitors can get lost in a sea of inspiration.
Where to grab a delicious lunch
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink is easily one of the best culinary experiences in Miami. Located in the Design District, the chef behind this South Beach staple, Michael Schwartz, is a James Beard award winner. His accolades are on full display when you taste his simple yet elegant preparation of seasonal and local ingredients. Notable menu items include the wood-roasted octopus, tuna carpaccio, truffle pizza and espresso martini, featuring locally made espresso.
Where to enjoy the best cocktail
The Goodtime Hotel got its name for a reason. Created by Pharrell Williams and entrepreneur David Grutman and designed by Ken Fulk, you can’t help but feel happy and open to having a good time the second you step foot inside. The Strawberry Moon, located on the third floor, is a whimsical indoor and outdoor space for food and drinks. Our drink recommendations are the Purple Reign, Art Basil and Spicy Jaja Margarita. Don’t miss happy hour, which takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. every day.
Where to experience design in the great outdoors
Located in Biscayne Bay is the historic Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Built in the early 20th century, Vizcaya is an anomaly in Miami; it is a serene oasis seemingly untouched by time amid a bustling and modern city. Stunning European-inspired gardens surround the property in elaborate designs giving the illusion of rooms. There is also a central courtyard in the Main House that offers a mesmerizing tropical garden with spectacular orchids.
Where to relish authentic local flavors
Miami is known for infusing its cuisine with Cuban influence. The big, bold flavors can be found around every corner. Our team was especially swept away by Esquina Cubana, a quaint authentic Cuban eatery with vibrant and colorful decor that transports you to the streets of Havana. Notable menu items include the empanadas, pesca malecón, enchilado de mariscos and the classic mojito.
Where to spot authentic street art
About a mile away from Miami’s Design District is Wynwood Walls, Miami’s street art museum. The giant warehouse buildings that make up the area are adorned with spray-painted street art that is ever-changing. Wynwood is globally recognized with contributing artists coming from more than 20 countries. Wynwood is also a great spot to shop local boutiques, art and food. Make sure to stop at Panther Coffee for a caffeine break.
Where to view to some great art collections
You wouldn’t think a hotel would have an extensive art collection, but the Betsy Hotel in South Beach does. The Betsy features a secret art gallery on the third floor inside the giant orb wedged between the two buildings. Much of the art is from the hotel owner’s private collection, although there is a portion of the art that is for sale. The public art collection extends throughout the hotel and flows into the lobby off Collins Avenue.
For more Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival content, check out our artist spotlight on SOBE muralist Kristine Lucco.
