With Winter Music Conference, Miami Music Week and Ultra just around the corner, many of you will be flocking to Dade County very soon. As a former Miami local, I am excited to head back to familiar territory. Parties will be had, shapes will be thrown and some serious fucking dancing will go down but between all the parties and adventures, you will most definitely need to refuel and regroup (pace yourselves, people). We’ve put together a little guide, for those of you who are unfamiliar with the city, to make your lives a little easier. From food to hotels to parties, we’ve mapped out some highlights. Obviously, there are loads of other restaurants to try, events to attend, etc. and this is not a comprehensive list, but for the sake of time, here are a few of our top picks:
FOOD:
Versailles (early dinner)
A local favorite located on the infamous Calle Ocho (8th Street), Versailles is where you go for some authentic Cuban food. It’s cheap, it’s delicious and it’s necessary. The paella and oxtail stew are amazing. However, if you are looking for a quick meal, this is not the place to go. Head here early for a solid dinner with your crew. Note: there is also a small stand located in Miami International Airport – stop by and grab an empanada, if you have time.
Le Sandwicherie (late-night)
Most definitely a late-night spot, Le Sandwicherie is where you go when you’re starving and need some fucking food. The sandwiches pretty huge and are served on crispy baguettes. Pour some of the special sauce on there and you’re good to go. I’ve actually seen people squirt this sauce directly from the container into their mouths – not recommended. Not sanitary. With a variety of toppings like Camembert, pate, prosciutto and a number of croquet monsieur masterpieces, this spot will definitely satisfy your cravings. Check out the menu and locations here.
OTC (brunch)
OTC is the ideal brunch spot for small to medium-sized groups (for larger groups, try Big Pink on Ocean Drive). $20 buys you (strong) bottomless mimosas and dishes like mac n’ cheese & meatballs, truffle fries, Thai chicken wings and steak and eggs will keep you going strong well into the evening. Located in Brickell, this place is closer to parties at venues like Ice Palace West and and Space.
Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill (happy hour > dinner)
This is my go-to happy hour spot. The drinks are as delicious as the bacon-wrapped dates and the transition into dinner is seamless. It is definitely a sit-down-and-take-your-time place. If you like spice in your cocktails, order the Spice of Love. The Strawberry Balsamic is also an exceptionally delicious mix. Sugarcane is a pretty popular spot so I suggest you arrive on the earlier side and, most importantly, be thirsty.
Joe’s Take Away (Joe’s Stone Crab)
Joe’s Take Away is the famous seafood chain’s answer to delicious and fresh food on the go. The Stone Crab claws are equally, if not more delicious because you didn’t have to make a reservation or look presentable to get them. Located next door to the main restaurant on Washington Ave., stop by on your way home from the beach or order in if you’re too hungover to move.
Yardbird - Southern Table & Bar (Get Classy)
Yardbird is the classiest restaurant on this list. If you’re in the mood to be presentable, this is the place to go and eat delicious Southern food in South Beach. Maybe you want to wine and dine that dime you met at that party the other day (doubtful, but never say never) or you’re taking someone special out for a nice date before embarking that evening’s adventures (more likely), one thing is for sure: you will leave satisfied. Reservations highly recommended.
PARTIES:
Get Lost
Year after year, Crosstown Rebels Get Lost tops our list of must-attend MMW parties. For the first time ever, the party is running for a full 24 hours. We’re always trying to get weird and Get Lost is our cup of tea. Entering its ninth year, Get Lost has earned its reputation as a cornerstone event of the week. A party that kicks off with an opening set from Sasha at 5am needs little introduction. Check out our preview for more details.
Loco Dice b2b Marco Carola at Space
Most of you will be landing in Miami just in time to catch the two kings of techno have it out on the infamous Space terrace on March 26th. Need we say more? We know we’ll be getting there in time to catch the sunrise. Last year, Marco and Dice, who’s known for his record-breaking marathon sets on the Space terrace, played well into the next afternoon. Purchase tickets here.
Sheik ‘N’ Beik Vs. Out-Er WMC
NYC’s underground party group is heading down south for some warmer climates and great music. Featuring sounds by Shonky, Anthea, Valentino Kanzyani and Holosound, this party is taking place on March 26th at TSL Lounge, an awesome little spot in Miami’s Design District. Give Holosound’s set from Robot Heart at Burning Man last year a listen. Check out the Facebook event page for details.
Nick Curly Presents Trust
Nick Curly has teamed up with Air London to present the first Miami edition of their Trust series. To celebrate the launch of this new party project, Curly allowed users to download his new track, ‘Trust’, for free via SoundCloud last month. With tunes from artists like Shaun Reeves, Subb-an, Kevin Saunderson and Matt Tolfrey, Trust is off to a strong start. The party is happening on March 26th at the Electric Pickle, another brilliant venue and personal favorite. Click here for more info.
Paradise Miami
Jamie Jones’ Paradise party has gained legendary status around the globe. Its summer residency at DC 10 in Ibiza this summer was monumentally successful and year after year, Paradise never fails to deliver the goods. Don’t miss sounds by Jamie, Seth Troxler, Guy Gerber, Lee Foss, Eats Everything, Dyed Soundorom and legends alike at Ice Palace West on March 27th. We’re hoping the transition from Space isn't too rough.Get your tickets here.
Last Resort
Last Resort is where you need to be on Sunday, March 30th. The only way to close out your week is with Solomon, Maceo Plex and Dixon in the dreamy multi-room, indoor/outdoor venue, Ice Palace West. Check out the full line-up here. Tickets are already sold out on Resident Advisor so act fast, people!
HOTELS:
The Catalina Hotel + Beach Club
Located in the heart of South Beach on Collins Avenue, The Catalina is as affordable, stylish, comfortable and in the center of all the action. The rooms are equipped with Tempur-Pedic Swedish Mattresses; a very important plus as whatever little sleep you may be getting needs to be deep. Not to mention, the hotel’s 1950’s theme is adorable. Check out the rooms and book your trip here.
The Hotel of South Beach
This hotel should be called the Hidden Gem of South Beach. Discovered as an after party destination one morning, the suites are quaint, charming and reasonably priced. Check out the website here.
The Flamingo
Definitely a fun place to stay, the Flamingo is a huge complex of luxury condos/apartments. Guaranteed lots of space and a great time, check out this website for some great last minute deals.
The Betsy
The Betsy is a gorgeous, classically designed hotel that opened in 1942. It is located on Ocean Drive so you are guaranteed some beautiful views and ideal people-watching. US troops were actually stationed here during WWII and an old-school charm exudes from every corner. It’s a little on the pricey side but you’ll feel like your in the Michael Curtiz film, Casablanca.
The James Hotel
Voted the “Hottest New Beach Hotel” by Travel + Leisure, the James Hotel in Miami offers comfortable, tasteful and luxurious guestrooms, studios and apartments. Catch, James Club and SL nightclub are all located less than one minute (walking distance) from the hotel so you don’t far for good food, a decent drink and some dancing. Although it’s on the pricier side, one look at the rooms and you’ll know it’s worth it.
