Lisa Hochstein’s Haute Guide To Miami

Photo Credit: Lisa Hochstein

What to do, where to go and the best eats in Miami. 

While Europe’s hottest destinations wind down from the busy summer months, Miami begins gearing up for its unofficial season opener—Art Basel. For the last 10 years I’ve lived in Miami, Art Basel has always been the start of the most exciting time of year in the city. There are no shortages of concerts, events, openings, parties, galas and the return of missed friends who spend their winters escaping the cold.

I often get asked from visitors who come to town what to do and where to go. I love to share some of my favorite spots with them. While there are plenty of restaurants and nightlife destinations around the city, there are a few that I continue to revisit as they never disappoint.

In no particular order, here are my absolute favorite restaurants to visit in Miami:

Prime 112 

In the heart of the South of Fifth neighborhood, this upscale steakhouse has something for everyone and always has a lively scene with a great bar and optional outdoor seating.

Komodo 

It’s an Asian fusion wonderland! From the handcrafted cocktails, live DJ, whimsical outdoor “birds nest seating” and indoor nightclub located on their second floor, you will not ever need or want to leave this place!

Photo Credit: Lisa Hochstein

Estiatorio Milos

This upscale Greek-Mediterranean restaurant has the most incredible fresh seafood around. It features a market where you can choose your fish on the spot and boasts a beautiful atmosphere that’s perfect for date night or group dinners. It’s also a hot lunch spot also where you can save money on the three-course prix-fixe menu.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro

Here, you’ll find authentic Turkish and Greek cuisine in a cozy, casual outdoor setting. It will please vegetarians and meat eaters alike and is located in the beautiful Design District—perfect for a post-shopping meal!

Some others not to miss are The Forge, Nobu, Baôli, Carpaccio, Meat Market on Lincoln Road (for people watching), Oliver’s Bistro or Ceviche 105 for a more casual night out.

If you are looking for a day of shopping and a bite to eat, Bal Harbour is the place for you.

The beautiful outdoor mall has every luxury brand you could dream of all in one place—Saks, Neiman Marcus, Dolce & Gabbana, Intermix and Giuseppe Zanotti, to name a few. After you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to try one of their amazing restaurants. I never miss an opportunity to dine at one of my favorite Italian restaurants, Carpaccio.

Once you have shopped and dined your way through the city, you can dance the night away at some of the world’s top nightclubs.

I’ve been to nightclubs all over the world and found that none rival those in Miami. You will never find a sexier crowd, better DJs, light shows or VIP service like you can at LIV, STORY, Rockwell or WALL nightclubs!

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