Now that we live in Florida, Miami is no longer a 5-hour flight from the West Coast, but a quick one-hour drive south. What was once a favorite vacation getaway is now more of a staycation, and we have been taking the proximity for granted. Two nights, no laptop, and a list of old and new favorites to visit.
Where to Stay
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AT THE SURF CLUB - The quiet one with biking proximity to the Bal Harbour Shops. The original 1930s club is still there, the cabanas and lawn run straight into the sand, and everything is beige, white, and calm: tradition blended with modernism in the most exquisite of ways. You arrive and your shoulders drop an inch; the grand lobby transports you to another world. (It's also where I shot the tennis dress in the elevator, if you remember that one.)
THE STANDARD SPA, MIAMI BEACH - The fun one that won't break the bank. Bay side on Belle Isle, so there's no beach, but the hammam spa itself is enough of a destination. There is also a club on the premises and Ping-pong table in the lobby!
Where to Eat
THE SURF CLUB RESTAURANT - Thomas Keller's Michelin-starred dining room inside the Surf Club. Dark wood, tablecloths, a piano, and old-Miami service. We always get the Dover sole—it's the best I've ever had. My chef husband, who does not easily hand out compliments, [went quiet for a full course]. Book ahead and dress up a little. You'll feel like a movie star!
MAKOTO - Our family's default Japanese spot at Bal Harbour Shops, ten minutes up the road. Best bento box and lychee martini! Antonia loves cooking her own meal on the hot stone.
PAULINE - The new one on my list, located inside the Shelborne on Collins Avenue. Seafood with a Latin accent in a beautiful Art Deco room. This was our night out. Beautiful blend of Latin, Caribbean, and Mediterranean—paired with a contemporary sensibility
MANDOLIN - Best Greek food and authentic vibe right near the Arts District. order the Baklava for desert!
Where to Play
The beach in front of the Surf Club is beautiful- I love the view from the Ocean front rooms most. Coffee on the porch, waking up with the sunrise is straight out of a dream. The pool is gorgeous too and nicely shaded by the building mid day. When it gets too hot, Bal Harbour Shops offers a shaded afternoon loop before lunch at Makoto. Finally, The Standard is an activity in itself: four hours in the hammam and the hot tub without looking at your phone once.
