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When it comes to cities, my friend and contributor, Michelle Pinchev, knows a thing or two. Obsessed with her city of Toronto (and travelling the world) Michelle started a blog last fall called City By Heart that’s dedicated to providing readers with a curated cultural guide to Toronto and beyond.

When she headed to Miami over the winter, I asked if she could share her guide to the city on GracieCarroll.com. I’ve actually never been to Miami before, but I would always trust Michelle’s recommendations and can’t wait to experience them in person.

If you’re interested in Michelle’s work, be sure to check out her blog and don’t miss the Jane’s Walk she is hosting on Queen West this Sunday, May 3rd.

Read on for Michelle of City By Heart‘s Miami City Guide!

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Over the years, Miami has become like a second home to me. I used to see it as nothing more than a winter getaway – a place to let my skin see the sun for a few days. But recently I’ve spent more time exploring Miami’s unique culture: It’s Latin flare, blossoming art scene, rich history, art deco design and laid-back beach lifestyle.

 

Where To Eat:

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Breakfast: To me, a perfect day in South Beach starts off waking up in the Miami Beach Marina in our floating hotel (i.e. yacht). If I’m lucky, my husband went for an early bike ride to Charlotte’s Bakery and brought us back some Chilean Empanadas and coffee for breakfast. But for a proper sit-down brunch, head to Yardbird for your favourite Southern Classics and a bacon-garnished Bloody Mary – need I say more?

Lunch: Assuming you’re willing to tear yourself away from the beach, I highly recommend spending a day exploring Wynwood. Before you head to the famous walls, start out at Enriqueta’s for the best Cubano sandwich in the city. No need to slow down – just pick it up from the friendly ladies at the takeout window. If you’re still hungry later, the Wynwood Walls can best be enjoyed from the patio of Wynwood Kitchen and Bar, an art-inspired restaurant that serves up Latin-inspired cuisine.

Dinner: It’s well known that I have a slight obsession with city skylines, so it should be no surprise that my favorite Miami dinner spot also has a great view. Located atop a building in the trendy Lincoln Road shopping district, Juvia Restaurant is a beautiful contemporary penthouse serving up eclectic, Peruvian-inspired small plates. We loved the gorgeous nigiri and ceviche dishes, and the cocktails were fresh and delicious.

 

Where to Drink:

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The Bar: The Clevelander is an iconic, art deco staple on the Colins Avenue strip. At night the roof-top terrace is always a good time, but by day I’m more inclined to get my Miami Vice to go and enjoy my frozen cocktails on the beach.

For a more low key night, stroll along Espanola Way until you stumble upon a small French café nestled away from the hustle and bustle. Grab a spot on A La Folie Café’s patio, sip on some wine and order one of their authentic crepes.

 

The Party: If you’ve gotten your fix of salt and sand at the beach, a pool party in Miami is an absolute must. Hyde Beach in the luxury boutique SLS Hotel throws one of the best pool parties in the city – day and night.

 

Where to Shop:

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Lincoln Road Mall is an outdoor shopping strip that is quintessentially Miami, but for some serious shopping, you have to daytrip north of the city to Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, Florida. It is a bit of a hike, but this mecca of upscale outlet shopping is definitely worth the mileage.

Also check out The Webster Miami for 20,000 square feet of luxury fashion housed in a historical Art Deco building.

 

Where to See the Best Public Art:

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I’ve already mentioned Wynwood but I’ll say it again – head to the Wynwood Art District for some of the best street art you’ve ever seen. There’s more to Miami than beaches, pool parties and seafood. Visit the Wynwood Walls, but don’t be afraid to stray from there. Art pours out of every warehouse, every alley, every street corner in this up-and-coming neighbourhood.

 

Thank you Michelle!!

xo

@GracieCarroll

 

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