Beautiful people, miles of white sand beaches, world-class dining and an around-the-clock club and cocktail scene. Just add Cuban flair and you’re in South Beach, aka “SoBe.”
I’ve been to many cities in Florida. Key West is a perpetual party too, but us Parrotheads enjoy the mellower things in life. Lounging on a beach chair, sippin’ on a ‘rita, and jammin’ to Jimmy Buffett or Bob Marley is our definition of the perfect day. Naples attracts a more mature crowd who appreciates the rewards of a lifetime of hard work, including the stunning sunsets all year ‘round. Orlando is known for its family “magic.” But Miami…it’s definitely like no other Sunshine State spot I’ve visited.
In search of a new and exciting, warm place to visit as the fall season set in, my husband and I took a long weekend vacation to South Beach. I always book the earliest flight out, despite how I curse myself when the alarm clock screams at zero dark thirty. My mission is to make the most out of the day.
The Clinton Hotel
We checked into The Clinton Hotel before lunchtime. It’s a modern boutique hotel nestled among dozens of other chic boutique hotels in the Art Deco area. Since we couldn’t check in yet, to the pool we went. We were immediately greeted by a lovely waitress who welcomed us with mojitos, which were definitely some of the most authentic I’ve tasted. The bartender then mixed us a colorful sangria with fresh tropical fruits. The pool area was a bit small, but quaint, and fit the atmosphere of the hotel.
Papagayo South Beach
It was time for a bite to eat and to check out what makes South Beach the destination for fun-seekers. Ocean Drive (A1A), the 10-block stretch of white sandy beaches, is one of the most popular main drags in the country. The music booms all day and night and there are dozens of restaurants and bars for every taste. We stopped at Papagayo South Beach, which features American, Cuban and Brazilian food. Other diners were sipping oversized margaritas with two Coronas flipped in. We quickly learned about South Beach’s signature drink, “The Bulldog.” So we ordered one. “When in Rome,” as they say. We followed the refreshing drink with a Mahi sandwich and burger. Little did we realize the gigantic drink costs $55 and the sandwiches were both around 20 bucks. Oh, and a warning for anyone going to Miami, check your bill wherever you dine, because they tack on a “service charge.” Who knew?
Manolo
We asked our friendly hotel mates where to score a decent breakfast for a decent price and they recommended Manolo, just a few blocks away. Imagine your favorite local diner with a South American twist. The family-owned restaurant offers an extensive menu from breakfast platters to home cooked dinners, plus desserts and cocktails. We dined there every morning during our stay and loved the hearty breakfasts, and also appreciated the casual atmosphere and quick, friendly service.
Jalapeno Mexican Kitchen
The rain on our first full day in South Beach put a damper on our plans, until we discovered Jalapeno Mexican Kitchen. The big board out front advertised $5.95 margaritas, screwdrivers or Cuba Libres. The décor is Mexican with a tropical feeling and features wooden tables, palm trees, stained-glass candles and lamps, plus island music was piped throughout the outdoor café. The staff was very friendly and made a rainy day at the beach a rather sunny one.
Ocean’s Ten
What lured me into Ocean’s Ten was the bright tangerine and cream-colored décor, large outdoor courtyard filled with sun-kissed happy hour-goers and, I won’t lie, the really cool classic car sitting out front—a creamsicle-colored, mint-condition Chevy Bel Air. Ocean’s Ten happy hour specials include two-for-one drinks, so we tried their signature drink with a name unfit to print, but check the website. The fruity concoction featured Absolut Vodka and Malibu Rum, Peach Schnapps, oj, cranberry juice and pineapple juice. There’s a DJ spinning hip-hop and house music, and nine TVs and a giant LED screen for sports fans.
Mango’s Tropical Café
It’s tough not to get lured into Mango’s Tropical Café, what with the gorgeous girls and guys performing Latin dances on the bar. The energy is electrifying and the Latin music and dancing keep the playful vibe going during the day and well into the evening. Mango’s has a full lineup of exciting stage productions, including Celia Cruz, Samba and Conga shows.
The Clevelander
You can hit The Clevelander fresh off the beach, or gussy up for a nice dinner, and on game day it becomes a sports hot spot. The patio features three bars and a wide variety of food, from simple appetizers to innovative entrees. The bartenders are friendly and enjoy chatting with visitors.
Ted’s Hideaway
As diehard Eagles fans, we always scout out a spot to catch our Birds no matter where we are, and that’s how we landed at Ted’s Hideaway. Yes, it’s a dive, and yes the drinks and bar snacks are extremely reasonably priced. The nachos, wings and free hot dogs were delish. The décor is bare bones, but the bartenders and servers are friendly and quick. Ted’s was the perfect find for us to relax and watch Monday Night Football.
Sugar Factory American Brasserie
It’s sugar and spice and everything nice at Sugar Factory American Brasserie, a hot spot visited by celebs such as Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Sammy Hagar and Mike Tyson. On our last day, I had a serious craving for ice cream, so we scoured Ocean Drive and discovered this confectionery dream. Located at the Hotel Victor, Sugar Factory offers a full menu from pancakes and crepes to burgers and steaks, but my sweet tooth was calling. I ordered “The Classic,” chocolate chip cookies with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, garnished with chocolate chips and a chocolate drizzle. It was heaven on a plate. As self-proclaimed Key lime pie connoisseurs, we had to sample the Sugar Factory’s pie and I was surely impressed. It was bright, creamy, just enough lime, and the graham cracker crust was buttery and savory. I didn’t have the chance to taste one, but the people next to us ordered the signature alcohol-infused smoking candy goblets, a truly fascinating concept I’ve never seen before. Next time I’ll try “Ocean Blue,” the Hpnotiq cocktail garnished with gummy sharks.
- Photography: Lauren Avellino Turton
