I Spy: The Haute 5 Places to People Watch in Miami

Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink

Making its way to the second round in the James Beard Finals, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink is positioned perfectly for people watching and maybe a little eavesdropping (we won’t tell). Located in the artsy Design District, you never know what kind of personalities will pass through the number of art galleries and shops only to end up hungry at Michael’s. Featuring famous chef Michael Schwartz, the menu boasts honest American cuisine along with delectable deserts by Hedy Goldsmith. For an afternoon of people watching, order a bottle of wine and a small entree for prime people watching in Miami’s most artistic area.

130 NE 40th St., Miami; (305) 573-5550

Mai Tardi

Translated in Italian as “never late,” Mai Tardi’s outdoor patio boasting century-old oak trees and water-colored mosaic walls creates an aura of ambiance perfect for people watching. Serving up fresh and unpretentious thin-crusted pizzas from the wood-burning oven, a lineup of decedent Italian appetizers, pastas and entrees, Mai Tardi is the type of place that invites you to kick back and stay a while. Round up friends to observe passerbies over a rich and creamy tiramisu and espresso-infused martini at one of Miami’s most serene locales.

163 NE 39 St., Miami; (305) 572-1400

Barton G.

Ever feel the urge to sneak a peak at what others around you are ordering? At Barton G., you won’t be able to help it, especially with regulars like Tom Cruise and Will Smith in attendance. Serving up theatrical presentations, each dish is uniquely designed by Chef Barton G, Miami’s most over-the-top event planner. Located on a residential block on the west side of South Beach, each meal is a show, with outrageous props decorating every entrée. For the best people watching, get a table in the outdoor garden space and order one of their bold deserts, like the Chocolate Fun-do, a mini chocolate fountain overflowing with four pounds of Belgian chocolate and tons of dipping delicacies from cake to fruit. A favorite among socialites and celebrities for its superior contemporary American cuisine and trendy atmosphere, this SoBe hot spot makes for a one-of-a kind dining experience you just can’t help but look around and enjoy.

1427 West Ave., Miami; (305) 672-8881

Prime One Twelve

While trendy spots come and go, there’s no better place to spot serious steak lovers than Prime One Twelve. Located inside the famous Browns Hotel, its the perfect place to scope out celebrities like Khloe Kardashian, Dennis Rodman (pre-Celebrity Rehab), Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, President Bill Clinton, and Star Jones. While there, spot top-notch business folks securing deals and cheesy couples bonding over lobster bisque. Standouts of the menu include kobe beef meatballs, bone-in rib eye, truffled French fries, creamed spinach and fried Oreos. On a Saturday or Sunday, the haute bar is a happening spot with plenty of classy, fashionable, upscale clientele to oversee.

112 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; (305) 532-8112

Joe’s Stone Crab

Hailed as one of the best seafood locales in all of Miami, there’s no better place to spot the hautest of Miami waiting in line or sporting a bib. Featuring meaty seafood flown in fresh every day, an extensive wine selection, exquisite steaks and arguably the best key lime pie around, observing the loyal following of Joe’s Stone Crab makes for one heck of a people watching experience.

11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; (305) 673-0365