Menin Hospitality Principal Keith Menin Shares His Haute Guide To The Magic City

Photo Credit: Menin Hospitality

Keith Menin is one of the most prominent figures in the Miami hospitality industry, boasting popular venues on their ever-expanding portfolio throughout the city from restaurants to bars, hotels, nightlife destinations and more. Some classics include the famous Pizza Bar, known for their extra-large slices of delectable pizza, neighboring nightlife destinations Bodega—a Mexican speakeasy with a happening bar in the back of the taco stand—and Ricky’s, an adults-only arcade/bar that serves the New York-famous Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. Also under the Menin Hospitality portfolio is the posh Mondrian South Beach, The Gale Hotel South Beach, Shelborne South Beach and more. Thus, it’s safe to say few people know the hottest dining, nightlife and hotel destinations in the city as well as Keith Menin. Here, he shares his ultimate guide to Magic City including his favorite places to eat, play, relax, drink, shop and more as he reveals his Haute Secrets:

Where were you born: Miami, Florida

How long in Miami:  Born and raised

Neighborhood: Venetian Islands

Occupation: Principal of Menin Hospitality, which currently owns and operates an eclectic portfolio that spans throughout South Florida and Chicago including upscale lodging, lifestyle restaurants and nightlife venues (Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, Ricky’s, Mondrian South Beach, The Gale Hotel South Beach and more). Having family roots embedded in South Florida’s hotel industry, a big part of my role is pioneering the modern-day preservation of historic properties and providing new distinctive experiences for travelers.

Best Sushi: Blue Ribbon

Best Italian: Dolce Italian

Best dessert: Cipriani Ice Cream

Best place for a romantic date: Casa Tua

Best Sunday brunch: Mondrian South Beach

Best place for a power business meeting: Estiatorio Milos Miami

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Being walking distance from some of the island’s most popular attractions, I’d have to say Gale South Beach. That, and it gives guests from out of town a chance to stay at a place that pays homage to its past with a blend of Art Deco charm and South Beach’s modern style.

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: VB in Sunset Harbor

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Phillips House Fine Jewelry

Best Spa: GUYandGIRL Spa at Mondrian

Favorite Charity Event: Make-a-Wish Ball Southern Florida

Favorite Cultural Event: Art Basel Miami Beach

Favorite Cultural Institution: YoungArts Foundation

Best Steakhouse: The Palm

Best Pizza: Pizza Bar

Best Lunch: Halves and Wholes

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: 5^th Street Gym

Best Massage: The Stone Therapy Massage at GUYandGIRL Spa is one of the best

Best new restaurant: Azabu

Best hidden gem: Via Emilia 9

Best cocktails: Regent Cocktail Club

Best beach club:  Surf Club at The Four Seasons 

Best Museum/Exhibit: PAMM 

Describe your city in three words: Beautiful, vibrant and exciting

All-around favorite spot in Miami: Miami Design District

Best Aspect of Miami: The accessibility of hopping on a boat with friends and enjoying the beautiful water and sunshine that surrounds our city