Ashley Brozic

Whether you're into world-class live music on the waterfront, rare collector cars gleaming in the South Florida sun, or dancing until sunrise for a cause worth celebrating, there is no shortage of reasons to get out this weekend. The Montreux Jazz Festival Miami brings artists like Jon Batiste, Elena Rose and Bomba Estereo to Coconut Grove for a multi-day musical bacchanal, MODA Miami transforms the Biltmore into a playground for automotive obsessives and collectors alike, and the gays are whipping out their oversize fans for Winter Party Festival, with events taking place from Miami to Wilton Manners. Oh, and Bal Harbour Shops is in full bloom — literally — with the stunning Fleurs de Villes FLORA exhibition turning the open-air mall into a couture floral wonderland. Pick your scene, Miami. There's plenty to go around. While you're out and about, take advantage of the weather and visit the myriad botanical gardens and parks around the city, check out our many locals-approved attractions, or book a reservation from our ever changing list of Miami's best restaurants. Whatever your preference, there's something for you this weekend in Miami. Here are our top picks.   RECOMMENDED: Things to do in Miami

Pick a neighborhood in Miami: South Beach, Coconut Grove, Wynwood or Little Havana. No matter the night of the week, this Magic City is brimming with things to do. This weekend is stacked — the Montreux Jazz Festival Miami brings world-class live music to Coconut Grove's waterfront, MODA Miami rolls into the Biltmore with hundreds of rare collector cars and luxury experiences, and the Winter Party Festival keeps the energy going across Miami Beach with its beloved week-long celebration of music and community. We've got tons of eclectic activities to jump into whenever the mood strikes—plus festive pop-ups and tourist attractions that even locals approve of. In this list, we've handpicked special events and happenings over the next seven days, enough to have you saying, "This was the best week ever." And if you're looking specifically for weekend events in Miami, we've rounded those up into a handy guide, too. RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in Miami Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in Miami news, culture and dining.

Locals and tourists can agree that the best things to do in Miami extend beyond ounging on the sand—though it goes without saying that spending some time on the best Miami beaches is fundamental to life in the 305. Aside from dabbling in our famous nightlife and exploring Miami's best bars, no trip would be complete without scoping out the booming culinary scene and our award-winning Miami restaurants. In between sunbathing, swimming and sipping cocktails, check off these essential Miami experiences, a mix of year-round attractions, seasonal events, cultural staples and exciting one-offs vetted by our expert editors and contributors. (We're a team of born-and-raised locals and passionate Miami transplants with an unhealthy aversion to staying home). By the way, this list is curated, as always, but isn’t ranked—we just couldn’t choose favorites. Best things to do in Miami at a glance: Coconut Grove Arts Festival – A massive, family-friendly outdoor arts festival featuring over 285 juried artists, live music, and local food along the scenic Coconut Grove waterfront. (Feb 14–16, ticketed) Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show – One of the world’s largest boat shows, spanning five venues with everything from luxury superyachts to the latest marine tech. (Feb 11–15, ticketed) South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) – A star-studded, four-day culinary extravaganza on the sands of South Beach featuring celebrity chefs, grand tastings, and beachside parties. (Feb 1

Miami is a pampered city, figuratively and literally. There are endless perks that come with living in a town that touts so many incredible hotels and resorts, and one of those is access to world-class spas. Here, you can wrap yourself in 24-karat gold, clear your chakras through bodywork, exfoliate with decadent sugar scrubs or sweat it out in a Scandi-style sauna. If there’s a trendy new treatment, rest assured you can find it here—otherwise, your next Swedish massage is probably just a block or two away. From Miami Beach to Coral Gables, these standalone spots and luxurious hotel destinations are the best spas in Miami to feel relaxed, rejuvenated and absolutely amazing. Updated January 2026: With a new year underway, Valentine's Day around the corner and Miami's chilly season in full effect, we thought it an appropriate moment to revisit the best spas in Miami. We've checked back in at many of our go-to self-care sanctuaries and tried out the latest and greatest treatments—of course, all in the name of research! This guide has been refreshed and reordered so that the hardest part of your spa journey is deciding between a lymphatic facial or a full-body scrub. See you in the sauna!

Like most things in Miami, our Christmas light displays tend to be a bit over-the-top. Ours might not be a snow-capped wonderland, but there’s nothing we can’t illuminate in this town. Tropical jungle? We’ve got every palm tree glittering in LEDs. Christmastime boat parade? Sure! And let's make it yacht rock-themed while we're at it. Because the holidays just hit different in Miami.  From whimsical Christmas events to extravagant Christmas dinners, massive Christmas carnivals and classic neighborhood light spectacles, celebrating the season in Miami can be just as magical as anywhere else—especially when you’re taking in our twinkling scenery by sea. So get that hot cocoa to-go and ride out after the sunset. Here are the best places to see spectacular holiday lights in Miami. RECOMMENDED: Time Out Guide to Christmas in Miami

Miami is beaches, palm trees, nightlife and humidity. It is also Cuban food. This is the home base of America’s (if not the world’s) Cuban diaspora, which means we are likely the best place to dig your fork into a plate of saucy ropa vieja, shred through a dish of vaca frita or graduate from a Cuban sandwich to a media noche, just like abuela makes it. Right now is an exciting time for Cuban food in Miami, from Little Havana to South Beach and beyond, as first- and second-generation Cuban Americans put their unique twists on the cuisine’s staples. We’ve included old-school classics and new-wave gems in this guide—and even some spots that come with a side of salsa (the kind you can dance to!). August 2025: For this update, we’ve limited Miami’s best Cuban restaurants to the top 10 spots, removing restaurants that have sadly closed (like Caja Caliente in Coral Gables and La Cumbancha in Miami Lakes), along with places that no longer cut the mustard on the proverbial cubano. In this guide to Miami’s best Cuban eateries, you’ll find Michelin-recognized gourmet sandwich shops alongside homey strip mall spots and our tried-and-true pick for solid Cuban eats on South Beach. Prepare to loosen a pants button—these portions are not small—and definitely don’t forget to order a colada for that inevitably necessary post-meal pick-me-up. How we curate and review at Time Out

Welcome to Miami, where the bars are plentiful and it's always a great time to go drinking. Sun's out? Fuel up on frozen delights at a waterfront bar (and don’t forget to ask for a floater!). Trying to impress a date? Miami’s got sexy speakeasies galore. Catching up with friends? Do so with a glass of something funky and a bowl of warm olives at a charming Miami wine bar. One of the Miami bars in this guide even stays open until 7am, should that be your destiny. Perhaps surprisingly, Miami is also home to plenty of places to drink when you're not drinking, where the low and no-ABV bevs are just as flavorful as their full-proof brethren. This is all to say, if you want to sip cocktails and party all night, you're in the right place. Wondering where to start? We’re breaking down our favorite bars in Miami, spots slinging drinks so good, you'll be hard-pressed not to order another round. July 2025: It’s been nearly a year since we last took full stock of Miami’s bar scene, and a lot has changed. Some of our favorite spots have closed, like MO Bar and Lounge at the Mandarin Oriental, in this case, to be demolished with the rest of the hotel sometime in 2026. Others we’ve moved off the list, like ZeyZey, a gem that skews decidedly more music venue. There are a few new entries, too, including Willy’s, a neighborhood gay bar in Wynwood, and Magie, a natural wine garden in Little River. Finally, we’ve updated and streamlined the entire guide to include the most up-to-date info and sc

Ranking the best beaches in Miami is a bit like trying to rank your children. They’re all stunningly beautiful, popular and unique in their own ways—and how dare you try to say otherwise! Of course, like human children, there are pros and cons to each of our beloved Miami beaches. And, much to our benefit, the pros vastly outweigh the cons along our strip of Atlantic paradise. With so many amazing options to choose from, we’ve put together this roadmap outlining the very best beaches Miami has to offer, along with a handful of worthy swaths just outside the county limits. Below, we break down each Miami beach according to the occasions or crowds we think you might be after. From sporty spots with windsurfing and nature trails to family-friendly parks and even a clothing-optional escape, there’s a beach in Miami for anyone scouting a bit of sun and fun this season. We’re also calling out the latest amenities and must-see attractions near each beach, including beachfront dining, historic landmarks and more. Grab some SPF and see you on the sand! RECOMMENDED:📍The best things to do in Miami🍽️ The best restaurants in Miami🍷 The best bars in Miami

Nightclubs in America say a lot about a city. In Las Vegas, they’re theatrical, big-budget productions with EDM headliners and enough confetti to choke the Strip. In New York, they are warehouse parties and Latin clubs with a distinctly uptown flavor. In Detroit, it’s techno history. In L.A., it’s bottle service and film producers. The best dance clubs in America reflect the energy of the places they call home—and the people who party in them. As someone whose vacation plans always include some sort of late-night lounge or nightclub, I treat my visit like cultural research. A club can be just as revealing as a museum if not more, and definitely louder. So yes, this list spans cities and tastes: from sweat-soaked dance floors in Minneapolis to glammed-up lounges in Miami (my hometown, so expect a few biased picks). Whether you’re traveling for a bachelorette weekend or just looking to dance until your feet ache, the best clubs in the USA are where to go when the sun goes down and the music turns up. RECOMMENDED: The best gay clubs in the U.S.

There was a time when South Beach was the only place to party. Now our nightlife is more spread out—Downtown’s got the underground DJs, Wynwood’s got the lively bars—but the beach is far from dead, even if it’s lost much of its 2000s luster. There are still megaclubs that rival Vegas in size (but not in taste) to tight, dark dance floors where the music is the first thing that matters. South of Fifth may have turned the volume down, and spring break may be on pause, but the rest of the year and the island are fair game. Clubbing in Miami isn’t casual. You don’t stumble in from the beach; you get ready for it. Strap on the heels. Splurge on the sexy fit. Bring charisma or cash (preferably both). Because here’s the thing: everyone loves to compare Miami to Vegas, but while Vegas will let you in wearing a sash and sneakers as long as your card clears, Miami makes you work for it. You could be a 10 with a trust fund and still get a head-to-toe once-over and a dismissive wave. In fact, even if you’re a 10, the door will make you feel like a five (which, to be fair, is still a 10 anywhere else). But once you’re in, if it’s the right spot and you’ve got the right attitude and a healthy wad of cash—it’s worth it. This list isn’t based on bottle service minimums or the size of the LED screen. It’s based on nights actually lived: the kind that leave your ears ringing and your group chat buzzing for days. We’ve been to these South Beach clubs, we’ve been turned away from these clubs, an

South Beach: Miami’s O.G. epicenter of cacophonously touristy bars, home to the city’s sugariest, not-at-all-a-deal two-for-one drinks! But is that it? Is that all this balmy strip of barrier island has to offer? Come out with us for a night and you’ll think twice before writing off the bar scene in SoBe. Whether hidden within boutique hotels, tucked away in unassuming alleyways or proudly perched along the main thoroughfares, South Beach boasts an impressive array of watering holes that cater to every taste and vibe—you just need to know where to look. From sleek rooftop lounges with panoramic views to new neighborhood classics, here’s your guide to the best bars in South Beach right now. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to South Beach, Miami

A few years ago, I found myself wandering around Brussels, weaving in and out of the usual clothing boutiques and knick knack shops, when a storefront display stopped me in my tracks. It was this lush oasis of monsteras and philodendrons, birds of paradise and grandiose palms. I entered, convinced I had stumbled upon an eden of sorts. “What a beautiful art installation!” I exclaimed to my now husband, surveying some leaves under a neon light as though I were at the Louvre. “Miss, this is a plant store,” an associate said. And I filed the experience under “I need to get out of Miami more often.”  This is all to say, we actually have a very unique plant market here in South Florida. Whereas the rest of the northern hemisphere needs greenhouses for their tropical flora to thrive, here, we have it in abundance. If you grew up in Miami, you're already familiar with the many nurseries tucked into the suburbs. While we still delight in being able to shop straight from the source, we're thankful for the abundance of Miami's urban plant shops with a more curated selection of greenery—some spots even have air conditioning! Ready to add a botanical touch to your home? Here’s where to buy plants in Miami.  RECOMMENDED:  The best flower shops in Miami

Now in its 33rd year, the Winter Party Festival returns to Miami Beach from February 26 through March 2 for a week-long celebration of music, dance and community. Produced by the National LGBTQ Task Force, with proceeds supporting LGBTQ+ advocacy and local South Florida organizations, the festival draws over 10,000 attendees for a packed schedule of parties spanning multiple venues. The week kicks off Friday night with RESIST, an opening techno and house party at MAD Live in Wynwood, before moving into the iconic Pool Party at the newly reinstated host hotel, the National Hotel Miami Beach. The crown jewel, as always, is the Beach Party on the sands of 10th Street on Sunday, March 1, featuring DJs Joey with the Mustache and Jace M. Festival, weekend and single-event passes are available, with VIP options including private cabanas and all-day open bar for those looking to go all out.

Looking for something you didn’t know you were looking for? Something that’ll sit in your home and make it look good, or perhaps an organic elixir to make your skin glow? Markets for Makers returns to Jungle Plaza for a two-day bazaar featuring small businesses and independent artists. Running from noon to 6 p.m. both days, the outdoor market brings together 110+ makers selling handcrafted goods alongside DIY stations, photo walls and food and drink stations to keep you fueled between finds. Every general admission ticket, starting at just $6 online, includes a free tote bag to fill as you go, while VIP tickets ($20) unlock all-weekend access and an exclusive Saturday preview hour from 11 a.m. to noon. Kids under 12 get in free and leashed pets are welcome.

Bal Harbour Shops is about to get a serious springtime glow-up. From February 27 through March 8, the iconic open-air shopping destination plays host to the worldwide launch of Fleurs de Villes FLORA, a 10-day immersive floral exhibition that transforms the mall and surrounding village into a runway of couture floristry. Produced by internationally acclaimed flower show creators Fleurs de Villes, the free public showcase features more than 25 one-of-a-kind fresh floral installations, including the brand's signature floral mannequins crafted by some of Miami's own local florists. Luxury boutiques like Brunello Cucinelli, Diptyque and Gianvito Rossi will each be adorned with their own stunning arrangements, while a goddess-inspired showstopper inspired by Flora herself greets visitors in the lobby of The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort next door. Best of all, guests can vote for their favorite mannequin for a chance to win a luxury overnight stay and a Bal Harbour Shops experience package worth $2,650. Miami is just the first stop on the North American tour, so consider this your bragging rights moment.

The self-dubbed "Art Basel of car events" rolls back into Coral Gables this weekend for its third year, and if the hype is anything to go by, MODA Miami 2026 might just be its most spectacular yet. Taking place February 27 through March 1 on the manicured grounds of the historic Biltmore Hotel, the multi-day showcase brings together hundreds of the world's finest collector cars, supercars and hypercars alongside luxury brand installations, an RM Sotheby's auction, and some seriously elevated hospitality for VIP ticket holders. It's Miami's version of a concours d'elegance for people who get genuinely emotional about a 1960s Ferrari. Beyond the showfield, the weekend is packed with reasons to linger, from Magic Hour early-access previews and a classic English afternoon tea to the open-air Moda Noche grand finale on Saturday night. Ticket tiers range from basic showfield access ($275) to the Ultimate Access package ($2,985) and kids under 10 get in free. The dress code? Miami Chic — stylish, vibrant and fun.

Dog moms and dog dads, this one's for you. On Saturday, April 4, the InterContinental Miami's Picante Terrace transforms into an al fresco pet marketplace for the fifth annual Paws Patio Food Fest — a tail-wagging afternoon of puppy playdates, treat tastings, vendor discoveries and Biscayne Bay views. This year's festivities are "hosted" by doggie influencers Pretzel and Gummy Bear, two Shih Tzus who take their executive chef duties very seriously. Each ticket comes with a Fur-ever Passport of Treats, your guide to sampling from a lineup of local vendors including Lulu & Bellas Bakeshop, Jaffee's Bone Broth and Yum Pup, plus tastings from Chewy's new Get Real food line. Local rescue nonprofit Rescue Paws FL will also be on hand hosting raffles, so you may just leave with more than you bargained for. Admission is free for humans; pup tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door.

Wellness gets a serious upgrade at the Miami Design District's Jungle Plaza on April 18 and 19, when WellNXT Fest brings two days of fitness, mindset, recovery and community to one of the city's most vibrant outdoor settings. The festival serves as the marquee event of Wellist Week — a citywide wellness gathering running April 13 through 19 across Miami Beach, Wynwood and beyond — and spans 50-plus programs, workshops and activations across eight curated time blocks each day, covering everything from outdoor workouts and cold plunge recovery to expert speaker panels, live podcasts and nutrition demos. General admission is free, while VIP passes ($95) unlock exclusive lounges, priority seating and a curated gift bag. 

If your Valentine’s weekend could use a little altitude, Florida’s largest kite festival is back at Haulover Park on February 14–15. For two afternoons, the beach turns into open airspace, with everything from classic kites to sky-sized whales, octopuses, astronauts, and parafoils stretching hundreds of feet overhead. No need to rush to Target to buy a kite; if you don't have your own, you can buy one on-site or just claim a spot in the sand and watch the chaos unfold. 

Monster Jam takes over loanDepot park on February 21 and 22, bringing its signature mix of all-out racing, freestyle stunts, and head-to-head competition. Behind the wheel are world-class male and female drivers piloting 12,000-pound trucks through backflips, vertical two-wheel skills, and flat-out dirt-flying runs as they chase the Stadium Championship Series East title—and a spot at the Monster Jam World Finals in Salt Lake City. Time Out readers get a special discount: save 20% on your tickets with code: 20MJ26. (The deal expires February 19th, and is valid for up to eight tickets in a single transaction.) Fan favorites are locked in, including Adam Anderson in the legendary Grave Digger, Jamie Sullivan’s Sparkle Smash, and Tristan England in JCB DIGatron, alongside a deep lineup of trucks like El Toro Loco, Megalodon, and Lucas Stabilizer. Want to see the trucks up close? The pre-show Pit Party (12:30–3:30pm on Saturday) offers meet-and-greets and behind-the-scenes access before the engines fire up. Also, don’t miss the Monster Jam Trackside Experience happening just an hour before the event. It’s packed with driver interviews, pit crew sneak peeks, and giveaways. 

Wynwood Art Walk returns Saturday, February 14, from noon to 11pm, folding Valentine’s weekend into Miami’s longtime second-Saturday ritual. Across the Wynwood Arts District, galleries, museums, restaurants, and shops roll out special programming—making it an easy, walkable plan whether you’re with a date, friends, or flying solo. Beyond gallery hopping, plenty of spots are leaning into the occasion: Otto & Pepe pairs sparkling wine with caviar, PASTA offers a three-course shared Valentine’s menu, and Cervecería La Tropical mixes live music, late-night happy hour, and a caricature activation. You’ll also find DJ sets throughout the neighborhood, extended hours and free admission at Wynwood Walls, and 40% off general admission at Paradox Museum Miami. Free, open to the public, and very much a choose-your-own-adventure kind of night. Full schedule can be found on the Wynwood Business Improvement District (Wynwood BID) website. 

An extension of the Adrienne Arsht Center's Free Gospel Sundays series, the second-annual Gospel Choir Invitational brings powerhouse church, community, and collegiate choirs to the stage for a high-energy night of competition and praise. Ensembles from Florida A&M, Florida Memorial University, and across South Florida perform dynamic sets judged on vocal skill, creativity, and showmanship—with the winning choir earning a cash prize and a spot at Gospel Fest Miami. Admission is pay-what-you-can (starting at $0), and audience members get a say, too, with live voting helping decide the winner.

Carnegie Hall comes to Miami! On Friday, February 6, Senegalese kora master Ablaye Cissoko and French accordionist Cyrille Brotto will be performing at Superblue as an extension of Carnegie Hall’s Well-Being Concert series. Brought to you by Live Arts Miami, Miami-Dade College's public performing arts platform, the performance places audience and musicians in a shared, floor-seated space, creating an unusually intimate listening experience. Staged inside Superblue’s digitally immersive setting, Cissoko and Brotto’s collaboration moves between West African tradition (via the 21-stringed kora, carved from a calabash gourd) and European folk —an opportunity to experience global sounds in a personal, unhurried way. 

Art + Soul returns to Pérez Art Museum Miami for its 13th year, supporting the PAMM Fund for Black Art. This year's honoree is Fab 5 Freddy. A pioneering figure in hip-hop and contemporary art, Freddy was the original host of Yo! MTV Raps and a key force in bringing graffiti and street culture into galleries and museums. The evening includes cocktails, a seated dinner by Chef Raheem Sealy, a program hosted by Neki Mohan, and a late-night celebration with music and dancing along Biscayne Bay. Tickets for the dinner start at $2,500, while access to the late night celebration begins at $200. If the celebration isn’t in the cards, catch Fab 5 Freddy in conversation with PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans the night before at PAMM. The February 6 talk looks at his creative path—from graffiti and early hip-hop to film, television, and his upcoming memoir Everybody’s Fly. It’s free with museum admission and will also stream online.

Travel is always better when you can sit back, relax, and let someone else handle the logistics. I should know—I’ve been a passenger princess for years. Being or bringing a plus one means splitting the Uber fare, having a built-in bag watcher, and someone to vent to when your “charming” boutique hotel turns out to be a glorified broom closet. But beyond the obvious social perks, traveling as a duo unlocks real financial benefits—because airlines, hotels, and credit cards love rewarding those who bring a guest. It’s a little like the movie The Lobster, where Colin Farrell’s character is thrown into a matchmaking retreat in a world that doesn’t favor solo life. One of his first nights, he’s forced to navigate with one hand cuffed—a not-so-subtle metaphor for how much easier life is when there are two of you. And while no one’s turning single travelers into animals, nor are we saying that solo travel doesn’t have its own stellar perks, those who embrace the passenger princess (or prince) lifestyle get treated like VIPs—with lounge access, free flights, and hotel upgrades to match. Airlines, credit cards, hotels, cruises and even railway companies offer perks for travelers in pairs—think buddy passes, bonus hotel nights, and two-for-one cruise fares that make bringing a plus one a no-brainer. Whether you’re in the driver’s seat or just along for the ride, here’s how to master the passenger princess travel life. Airline companion fares The best airline perks aren’t just about legr

In theory, spending an afternoon soaking up the holiday spirit at the mall sounds idyllic. Children posing with Santa, quaint little holiday villages popping up in corners, garlands and bows adorning every railing, and enticing sales to score the perfect gifts. But reality has a way of dashing those sugarplum dreams. The moment you roll into the parking lot, the ferocity of Miami drivers slams into you like a sack of coal and the fantasy crumbles, replaced by chaos, long lines and endless crowds. And on this last weekend before Christmas? A winter wonderland, the mall is not. But what if last-minute holiday shopping could actually feel, dare I say, luxurious? Imagine my delight when, instead of braving the madness on my own, a private chauffeur arrived at my doorstep, ready to whisk me away for a day of stress-free holiday shopping! Enter Blacklane. The private, on-demand car service has launched a Holiday Chauffeur package (offered through January 2, 2025), which promises to transform the stress of gift shopping into an experiential treat. Available in Miami, New York, London and Dubai, it includes five hours of chauffeur service complete with curated routes to top shopping spots and festive attractions.  Photograph: Ashley Brozic for Time Out First stop: Miami Design District My driver, Sergio, picked me up in a brand new Mercedes-Benz EQS EV packed with water (at different temperatures!), chargers (for all kinds of phones!), mints and the sound of smooth jazz (because wh

It’s been a year, readers! As we near the end of 2024, it’s time to reflect on the meals we savored because the only thing we want to remember about the last 12 months is the best things we ate. (Isn’t it always about the food?) Time Out editors and contributors across the country spent countless hours eating their way through their respective cities, reviewing restaurants, and dissecting trends to bring you this year’s Best of the City Award for Best New Restaurant. It’s a coveted title bestowed to the special spots that won our hearts and swept up accolades, not only from us but also from Michelin and other eagle-eyed diners. If you find yourself in any of these cities, now or in the future, add these fantastic new restaurants to your list. Miami: Sunny’s It’s hard to do many things well, but Sunny’s somehow manages to excel at all its endeavors: a fun happy hour spot, a glamorous Art Deco steakhouse, a chill outdoor restaurant (and dare I say, kid-friendly?) and a lively cocktail bar where you can order a drink and bowl of pasta without any side glances from your neighbor. We also love the tableside martini service and the down-to-earth staff, and, of course, those perfectly seared cuts of meat. Photograph: Jeanne CantoSunny's Steakhouse Chicago: Cariño This Latin American restaurant opened at the tail end of 2023 but quickly became an essential player in Chicago’s dining scene. Recently, Cariño was awarded a Michelin star, a nod our restaurant critic, Maggie Hennessy, i

Nothing lasts forever, and nowhere is that more apparent than in Miami. Over the last few years, we’ve been on a spree of In with the new! And while we welcome change (I mean, have you seen all these buzzy new concepts?!), it often comes at a cost. Rents rise, concepts go stale and the Miami gaze wanders to whatever’s shiniest, leaving the old restaurants, nightlife venues and trends many of us grew up loving to fall like proverbial dominos. But wait, what’s this? Could it be Miami has developed a sense of nostalgia, and the gumption to actually do something about it? Judging by the number of reopenings this year (and more to come in 2025), it would seem so! More than nostalgia, perhaps it’s even a newfound reverence for the places and ideas that shaped Miami’s identity, a recognition that some things deserve to be more than fleeting. Don’t call it a comeback, or do. Here are the Miami restaurants, bars, people and trends that made triumphant returns in 2024. Photograph: Michael PisarriMartini service at Sunny's Steakhouse 1. Sunny’s Steakhouse By far this year’s most anticipated opening, pandemic darling Sunny’s “Someday” Steakhouse made its return in October, dropping the “Someday” for a permanent address in their original Little River pop-up space. This is the Floridian steakhouse we didn’t know we needed—but co-owners Will Thompson and Carey Hynes did. They kept the outside almost intact in both aesthetic and spirit, with casual seating and bar service surrounding a dec

Miami Spa Months are back, which means from July 1 through August 31, treatments and therapies at the city’s most coveted spas are more accessible than ever. Aching for a little stress relief? There’s an aromatherapy massage for that. Has this gnarly summer heat triggered a skin flare-up? Perhaps a clarifying hydra facial is the answer. Or maybe you’ve just been curious to try out that trendy new cellulite treatment. From Coral Gables up to Sunny Isles, Miami’s best spas are waiting for you to take advantage of this summer’s tempting reduced pricing. Still, starting at $109, treatments aren’t exactly cheap. We’ve combed through the offerings to pick out the very best Miami Spa Months specials (at our pre-vetted favorite Miami spas) that are actually worth it—because you deserve it.  Top Miami Spa Month deals Photograph: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental Spa/George Apostolidis 1. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental - Miami The spa: Crossing the bridge to Brickell Key for the day isn’t really getting away, but when you’re surrounded by water and pampered like royalty it’s easy to make believe you’re on vacation. This massive facility offers treatments inspired by ancient Chinese, Ayurvedic, European, Balinese and Thai traditions. The treatment: The Oriental Essence Massage ($199, 80 minutes) uses custom-blended oils and movements inspired by traditional Oriental therapies, relieving tension through the whole body. Deep Tissue and Hot Stone upgrades are available for an additional $30.00..

Gordan Ramsay has had his eyes set on Miami as of late. After opening Hell's Kitchen in Brickell, the "world's meanest chef" will be opening yet another restaurant in town, this one inspired by Depression-era kissas (jazz pubs) in Tokyo and Shanghai drinking dens. But note, there's nothing depression-era about this space.  Originally from London's posh Mayfair neighborhood, Lucky Cat is Ramsay's Asian-inspired late night lounge and restaurant concept and his first to open stateside. The space is sultry, with velvet booths to sink into, dark fluted walls and art deco light fixtures that keep the space nice and dim. Black neko cats line curved golden shelves and we'd dare you not to order a second round at the sexy little bar inside. The restaurant also features a raw bar and chef’s table for special occasions.  Lucky Cat's menu is inspired by popular dishes across the continent from Ramsay's travels. Expect things like sushi and sashimi, buns and dumplings, tempura specialties, and robata-grilled items. There will also be small plates and creative bar snacks, as the venue also doubles as a late night lounge. Additionally, the culinary team has crafted some only in Miami items, including a manilla wagyu roll, smoked shima aji nigiri, baked clay pot glass noodles with Maine lobster and Berkshire pork belly and Lamb Dumplings with Szechuan pepper.  And as its inspiration might suggest, Lucky Cat will feature a robust selection of Japanese whiskeys and premium sakes, alongside win

The internet has been ripe with commentary since Royal Caribbean first announced Icon of the Seas, the biggest ship ever to set sail. It’s been likened to the Titanic, a “Disaster at Sea,” a colossus on water. I may have bought into the slander had I not gone on the ship myself, but after spending three rum-filled days on board, I can assure you that this ship isn’t sinking anytime soon. In fact, how it caters to every single age and interest guarantees the Icon will be sailing—and setting the standard for family cruises—for a long time. The Icon itself is a layered experience, and I mean that in a physical sense. On your standard cruise, every floor, restaurant and activity is markedly separated. You’re either on the top deck or the mid-deck, with nothing to connect the two but a staircase. Not so on the Icon. Though there are eight different “neighborhoods” on board, the ship is engineered for exploration and discovery, designed to flow people throughout its 18 public decks with the buoyancy of lapping waves. Standing on one level doesn’t prevent you from being integrated into the other; you can somehow be in five places all at once. Disorientating? Yes, but at no point will you ever feel claustrophobic. Photograph: Ashley Brozic for Time Out OK food, next-level cocktails and the never-ending night While grabbing an espresso at Pearl, the main café in the Icon’s two-story Promenade, where many of the lounges and bars are located, I looked up through a window into Central

For a city bordered by an ocean and a bay, waterfront restaurants and bars are surprisingly hard to come by. And a decently priced one where the food and drinks don't just rely on views, that’s actually good? It doesn't exist—until now. Pioneering Wynwood bar Gramps expands to Key Biscayne with today's "soft grand opening" of Gramps Getaway, a campy, authentically Florida joint with boat access, skyline views, freshly caught seafood, tropical drinks and all the funky thrills Gramps has come to be known for—with a more "come-in-your-flip-flops" vibe. “We’re taking Gramps and doing it again, except with a bigger covered outdoor space…and it’s on the water,” says owner Adam Gersten. Photography: Ashley Brozic for Time OutGramps Getaway Though the layout feels virtually unchanged from what the shuttered Whiskey Joe's left behind (the thatched huts still stand), Gramps' DNA can be traced throughout. I popped in a few days before opening and noted the squiggly lines on neon planks of wood that look like they were drawn with magic dot pens, the schooner-like bar that'll be slinging out craft cocktails and frozens, and an area marked for a stage, because anytime they’re open, you can expect live music and entertainment. “We’ll have a pretty intense event program," says Gersten. "All the usual gramps stuff—DJs, live music, cultural events—and maybe more arcade games.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virginia Key (@grampsgetaway) Dif

Have we reached peak Barbie yet? Not yet, Ken! After making its way across California, Mattel's Barbie Dreamhouse truck will be bopping its way to the Sunshine State, bringing tons of limited edition merch to those of us who love a life in plastic. (Spoiler alert: It's fantastic.)  As a part of its Dreamhouse Living Tour, the rainbow-hued Barbie truck will be making stops at three South Florida malls throughout February. Inside, you'll be able to shop tons of limited edition Barbie-themed merch, like bright and playful accessories, home goods (think cute doggy bowls, drink coasters and water bottles) and "Dream Wear," so you can flaunt your love for this iconic doll everywhere you go. Why not make a total Barbie Dream Day of it? Pop by the truck to get a full outfit, then head over to the Malibu Barbie Café in Wynwood for lunch, opening to the public on February 9.  You'll have three chances to catch the Barbie Dreamhouse truck as it rolls through South Florida. This includes a stop at Sawgrass Mills (in the Colonnade Outlets near the Matchbox Restaurant from 10am to 7pm), Aventura Mall (near the Slide Tower and Apple store from 10am to 7pm) and Dolphin Mall (in the Fountain Plaza from 11am to 8pm). Want to start strategizing your shopping trip? Here's a small snapshot of what you'll find:  Photography: Courtesy Mattel Photography: Courtesy Mattel Photography: Courtesy Mattel  Recommended: A Malibu Barbie Café is coming to Miami

In the culinary and bar worlds, there are two reigning organizations that elicit prayers for recognition. On one corner, you've got Michelin Guide, which finally began doling some stars to Miami in 2022. On the other, you've got the James Beard Foundation, which is dedicated to highlighting the best of the best in America's hospitality industry. Today, the latter announced its 2024 nominees with a handful of Miami and South Florida cuts, and while we won't find out who officially won until June, securing a nod from this non-profit is enough of a badge of honor to warrant a visit in order to see for yourself what makes a particular restaurant, chef or bar worth noticing.   As Eater Miami points out, the James Beard Foundation updated its award criteria three years ago in an effort to be more inclusive and highlight diverse talent. Florida rarely gets is share of the pie, and this year is no different. Out of the hundreds of nominees across categories like Outstanding Chef and Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program, ten Florida establishments and chefs have been nominated, including five from Miami.  Our city swept up with bakery nominations: Zak the Baker got a nod for Outstanding Bakery and MiMo's favorite croissant and cachito makers (and father-son duo) Jesus and Manuel Brazon from Caracas Bakery have been nominated for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker. Macchialina has been recognized for its fantastic wine program and Chefs Valerie Chang (Maty's) and Tristen Epps (Oc

It turns out Superblue and Artechouse aren't the only immersive art museums in town. If you're looking to discover experiential works in South Florida, Mad Arts just underwent a multi-million-dollar museum expansion, giving artists more space and opportunity to immerse people in really disruptive, technology-driven installations and exhibits.  “Expanding our physical space and exhibition program formalizes the work we’ve been doing at the intersection of art and technology over the years,” says Mad Arts Executive Director, Marc Aptakin. “We’re thrilled to welcome visitors into an entirely new museum experience. This expansion will give Mad Arts an opportunity to bring in more artists, expand educational programs and elevate how we use emerging technology to amplify stories, something that is central to our mission. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mad Arts (@madarts_space) The 50,000 square-foot-space touts 20 different exhibitions by both local and international artists, blurring the boundaries between innovation, technology and creativity. A work on the first floor, Resonances, captures your movement at a moment in time, multiplying and stretching it across screens all around you. The Light Pours Out of Me by Miami-based Richard Velez is a live audio/visual installation that manipulates light and sound to create a cacophonous experience. And Sound the Deep Waters by Josh Miller and Angela Fraleigh asks you to submit secret messages, and transla

It only takes one trip to Miami to plant the seed in your mind: "I could live here." And how could you not want to? Boundless beaches and palm trees, a kaleidoscopic patchwork of cultures and an endless calendar of things to do under the sun puts our population in a constant vacation state of mind. But hey, don't take our word for it; just ask the thousands of city dwellers who voted Miami as one of Time Out's 50 Best Cities in the World.  Miami ranked #23 in this year's global survey, which asks locals around the world what it's like to work, play and just exist where they live. This years rankings focused on quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife, as well as how the city overall made them feel, from the aesthetics surrounding them to the friendliness of their neighbors.  What really stands out about Miami is our legendary party scene. Miami had the second highest score for nightlife with a 94 percent approval rating, right behind Dubai which scored 98 percent. We nudged ahead of other party destinations like Berlin (92) and Singapore (91). And we totally back this finding, from bars to day parties, and nightclubs to strip clubs. Even astrologists agree: there has never been a more exciting time to live in this city than right now. Change is the only constant here, and everything from our hospitality scene to our arts and entertainment offerings are leveling up. We have internationally revered chefs like Massimo Bottura and Thomas Keller opening restaurant