We’re headed to Ironman 70.3 Miami next week to finish out the year. Have to get in one last race, you know. It will be the first time at this race and my first time to Miami in about 30 years. Luckily, we have friends who have done the race several times and another friend who actually lives there and owns a restaurant. So, we’re able to share with you some great tips for Miami food and fun and then of course, some Ironman 70.3 Miami spectator tips…
Photo credit Komodo.
MIAMI FOOD
You will not find a shortage of great food in Miami and from all over the world, but of course with a large Latin influence. Most of the choices listed are close to the race site, so you don’t have to venture far, with a few others thrown in because they’re very good.
- Paulie Gee’s – Okay, this is a shout out to our friend, Jason, who left New York and the world of finance last year and fulfilled his dream of opening a restaurant in Miami. Based on the fact that it’s already winning awards like Best of Miami 2017, I’d say he’s doing something right. But, just take one look at this pizza and you’ll know why. They have the best sausage I’ve ever had and it’s vegan, along with 1/3 of the menu.
Photo credit Paulie Gee’s.
- Fratelli Milano offers simple, fresh food with reasonable prices in an inviting atmosphere. Our friends ate here multiple times, so that says a lot. Outdoor seating is available.
- Il Gabbiano is located on Biscayne Blvd. so has beautiful views of the bay. But, it also offers great food and great service, so it has it all. We had dinner there and while a bit pricey, it was delicious with impeccable service. They give you so many free appetizers when you sit down, that you’re full by the time dinner arrives.
A gorgeous deboned Branzino at Il Gabbiano.
- Glam Vegan is a new restaurant in town that is getting rave reviews. Being vegetarian, I will definitely be trying Glam.
- Mandolin Aegean Bistro is a culinary gem in Miami serving clean and fresh Greek Food. It also happens to have gorgeous outdoor seating in the garden.
Photo credit Mandolin Aegean Bistro.
- Wolfgang’s Steakhouse won’t disappoint if you’re in the mood for a juicy Porterhouse steak (which they’re famous for) and a waterfront view from every seat in the house.
- Fufi serves delicious made fresh daily empanadas and pizza in a quaint setting. Not right by the race site, but worth the effort.
- Komodo serves Chinese/Asian Fusion in one of the coolest spaces I’ve seen with exquisite food. It’s a 3 story, multi-level indoor/outdoor eatery with 3 bars. If you want to go to a place that’s “happening” this could be for you. It is not the place for shorts and a t-shirt, though.
Photo credit Komodo.
- db Bistro Moderne has a sister location in midtown Manhattan that I have been to on multiple occasions so can definitely recommend.
- Joe’s Stone Crab is pretty well known and stone crab season started October 14 by the way. Located in South Beach, they don’t take reservations and are legendary for the wait to get a table and be seen at the bar! They recommend coming before 7pm or trying Joe’s Take Away that’s more laid back.
- Azucar Ice Cream is in Little Havana and apparently has absolutely amazing and all natural ice cream.
- Looking for great deli food? Check out Zak the Baker. Just be aware that it is closed Friday night and Saturday for Sabbath.
In case you need to do some food shopping, there is a Whole Foods close by the race site at 299 SE 3rd St. And, if you need more eating out ideas, check out Thrillist Miami.
MIAMI FUN
If you are looking for a few suggestions of things to do besides hitting the beach or just enjoying the sunshine, here are a few ideas.
- Wynwood Art District and Wynwood Walls used to be a rather “seedy” area, but has been transformed into an outdoor gallery with amazing artists. Filled with shops and restaurants besides the artwork, it’s a great way to spend some time. If you’re looking for a place to eat, check out Coyo Taco or Alter.
- Frost Museum of Science is seriously cool. Located in Downtown Miami’s waterfront Museum Park, you’ll not only be able to learn all about the science behind living systems like the human brain, but you’ll also find a Planetarium and Aquarium. Local artists fill the Perez Art Museum next door with modern contemporary art. It also houses Verde which is a great place to grab a bite to eat with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Stroll Ocean Drive for a bit of sightseeing, shopping, and people watching.
- Viczcaya Museum and Gardens is a gorgeous ocean front estate that is an oasis of calm and greenery in Miami. Be sure to check out the gardens and maze and the art collection.
Photo credit Viczcaya Museum and Gardens.
- Filled with Latin-inspired cafes, restaurants, venues, and market, Little Havana is the colorful center of Hispanic culture in the city. Take a few hours to stroll this lively and fun neighborhood for a taste of Cuban culture, not to mention the food – don’t forget the Azucar Ice Cream!
- Miami Children’s Museum will keep the kids occupied for hours with it’s fun and interactive exhibits.
- The 450 acre Deering Estate in Cutler Bay is an environmental, archaeological and historic preserve that offers unique opportunities to experience Florida’s natural resources. Visitors enjoy daily tours of historic homes, hikes through the lush natural areas, opportunities to examine fossils and tools left behind by pre-historic humans, and much more.
DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR MIAMI FOOD AND FUN?
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Sherry is one of the TriWivesClub and LifeDoneWell co-founders and contributes to multiple blogs. She is a former co-owner of the California Apparel News and had a career in the healthcare industry. Her passions include traveling, real food, the environment, and animal rescue/welfare. She lives a healthy lifestyle and has been a vegetarian since 1987. She and her husband are parents to two rescue pups and reside in Connecticut.
