LEE BRIAN SCHRAGER's MIAMI HEAT
NEXT WEEK MARKS THE 15TH ANNUAL SOUTH BEACH WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL, WHICH IS A NATIONAL, STAR-STUDDED, FOUR-DAY DESTINATION EVENT SHOWCASING THE TALENTS OF THE WORLD’S MOST RENOWNED WINE AND SPIRITS PRODUCERS, CHEFS AND CULINARY PERSONALITIES. ITS FOUNDER, LEE SCHRAGER, IS A FRIEND AND FOOD LOVER AND, AFTER SPENDING 20 YEARS IN A BEAUTIFUL HOME TUCKED AWAY IN A HIDDEN SPOT IN MIAMI’S DESIGN DISTRICT, WAS THE PERFECT PERSON TO TURN TO TO TELL US ABOUT EVERYTHING MIAMI.
1. SHOPPING IN THE NEW PALM COURT PLAZA OF MIAMI’S BURGEONING DESIGN DISTRICT
It was a bit like a dream came true when Hermès finally opened, and I love spending a Saturday afternoon grabbing an iced coffee and croissant from Michael Schwartz’s Café Ella – or perhaps indulging in one of their delicious s’mores doughnuts – and sauntering through the collection of luxury stores now open here.
2. THE SPA AT THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL ON BRICKELL KEY
500 Brickell Key Drive
+1 305 913 8332
This is my favorite place to unwind with a massage, followed by a cocktail and impeccable Peruvian food at Chef Gastón Acurio’s La Mar overlooking the pristine waters of Biscayne Bay and the downtown Miami skyline.
3. PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI (PAMM)
1103 Biscayne Boulevard
In addition to the world-class modern and contemporary art exhibitions that rotate through, PAMM has skyrocketed to one of the top venues for social events. I love heading there for any – or no – occasion at all, and enjoying the serene views from Stephen Starr’s Verde for a bite.
4. COCONUT GROVE DOG PARK
I love taking my dogs (Stanley, a French Briard and Charlie, an Old English Sheepdog) here on the weekends. It has beautiful views of the water and great walking paths – I just sit back with a frozen lemonade from the truck that's always there and enjoy.
5. BUENA VISTA DELI
4590 NE 2nd Avenue
+ 1 305 576 3945
Even though I recently moved from the Design District to Coral Gables, Buena Vista Deli remains a go-to spot for me to grab a coffee and a chocolate almond croissant or one of their great quiches.
6. PINECREST FARMERS MARKET
11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, FL
Since moving to Coral Gables a little over a year ago, heading down to the Pinecrest Farmer’s market on Sundays has become one of my favorite things to do. I love getting pickles and fresh breads here – they have a great roster of artisan vendors to check out.
7. LA SANDWICHERIE SOUTH BEACH
229 14th Street, Miami Beach
+1 305 532 8934
This no-frills, counter-space only spot is open ‘til the wee hours of the morning, making it the perfect stop on your way out of one of Miami’s oldest bars, Club Deuce, or any other time of day. They churn out gourmet sandwiches on French bread, perfect to grab and take over to the beach, accompanied by their signature, habit-forming French vinaigrette.
