Miami, a beach metropolis complete with sun, fun, and satisfying eats. I've had the opportunity to visit this city on the sea seven times and counting. With each visit I try to expand my Miami repertoire by experiencing a new hotel and seeking out Radish-friendly eats and treats. I find myself flocking back to old faithful spots such as Joe's as well as uncovering new "go-to’s" like Jugo Fresh and Zak the Baker. Not all my eating adventures were hits, misses are unfortunately part of the process. As a health junkie, integrating exercise is always a critical component for me during my travels, and I always try to stay at a hotel with a strong wellness program or seek out fitness studios near-by. In typical Radish fashion, not every Radish Rec is super "crunchy", but I always strive for a balance of wellness and fun and do indulge, on occasion. Without further ado, here are my Radish-Approved, Radish Recs: Miami.
The Standard Spa Miami Beach offers the ideal combination of tranquility and revelry. In typical Standard fashion, the hotel creates a transportive experience. From the art deco facade to the lush greenery abundant within the property to the strong wellness philosophy. Dockside sunrise yoga was the perfect way to start the morning, and an afternoon Hamam rub and scrub left me as soft and tender as a well massaged leaf of kale. Lunch at Lido Restaurant was radish-friendly, complete with a deliciously inspiring "living lasagna", a flavorful and light vegan delicacy that according to the chef, is a three day prep process. Fresh pressed juices and raw coconut water are available throughout the hotel, in perfect tandem with the fermented bevs and DJ beats.
Ice Box Café- For a sunny and health focused brunch, Ice Box Café was the perfect spot. The menu is loaded with seasonal and fresh salads, organic eggs, and plenty of gluten-free options.
Joe's Stone Crab- The restaurant is a once a year stop for the Mister and me. Although it may be considered a “tourist trap”, this institution is a relic of old world Miami that still dishes up great stone crabs and quality service. Typically a two-hour wait on the weekend, we slipped right in on a Monday night for a bounty of crabs and the signature key lime pie.
Jugo Fresh- I always seem to find myself in dire need of a green juice fix while traveling. Jugo Fresh is the perfect post-workout or anytime of day spot to fortify my need. The acai verde bowl was a fully loaded morning meal with acai, banana, kale, spirulina, honey, seasonal fruit, coconut flakes, and cacao-kale granola and the Kaleito smoothie has quickly become my "go-to". To avoid airport mishaps, I love to grab some goods to-go that typically include the vegan banh mi roll and raw nuts to consciously crunch in flight.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro- As a huge proponent of the Mediterranean diet, Mandolin serves up the ideal menu of vegetarian dips, local grilled fish, and hearty doses of extra virgin olive oil. The outdoor patio is peppered with lanterns and bistro lights and provides the prefect environment for delectable Greek fare. My favorites included the tomato walnut dip served with sesame seed studded toasted pita, grilled whole fish, nutty bulgur salad, and the most perfect pistachio-laced baklava.
Matador Room at the Edition - Jean -Georges strikes again with his Caribbean, Spanish, and Latin American influenced menu. Seasonally focused salads, sides, pizzas and tacos allow a pleasing meal for all taste preferences. Do not miss the tacos! My personal favorites included the grilled grouper with pickled vegetables and the raw kale and mushroom tacos with house made hot sauce. Grab a table outside underneath the hanging plants with a view of the pristine pool.
Mignonette – For a bounty of East and West Coast oysters and a bowl of gumbo in a hip diner-like setting, Mignonette is your spot.
News Café- Albeit another major stop for tourists, this quintessential sidewalk café on Ocean Drive is the perfect place to people watch and soak in the atmosphere of Miami beach life. I dream about the Middle Eastern combo platter often- it should not be missed.
Panther Coffee- Although I am extremely partial to BRC, Panther coffee was the ideal respite for my java jolt. This specialty coffee roaster and retailer specializes in small-batch roasted coffee and provides a great environment to Radish while away.
Yardbird Southern Table and Bar- This trendy and vivacious spot was named one of the top new restaurants by Bon Appetit in 2012 and caterers to both the comfort food and health-minded set. Delicious bloodies at brunch, smoky deviled eggs, grilled shrimp and mango salad, and fresh house-made biscuits are some of the fantastic menu items to savor.
Zak The Baker- A kosher bakery located in the Wynwood area that is catering to the masses. Zak the baker offers up a gorgeous selection of breads that range from sourdough, za'atar, and olive loafs as well as a vast assortment of vegan and non-vegan baked goods such as doughnuts, rugelach, babka, and cookies sans or containing gluten. For a full meal or snack, select one of the drool worthy toasts, sandwiches, or salads and enjoy in the bright wood covered setting.
Pool side juice at The Standard