Ashley Brozic

Pick a neighborhood in Miami: South Beach, Coconut Grove, Wynwood or Little Havana. No matter the day or night of the week, this Magic City is brimming with things to do. March brings a number of yearly headliners from the Miami Open to the Youth Fair, and the Rennaissance Festival to the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary, just over an hour's drive north. Looking for something more low key or intimate? Get an intro to Leonardo Da Vinci this month at Frost, or check out the stunning Afro-Cuban exhibition by photographers Elliot & Erick Jiménez at PAMM.  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.

Things are heating up in South Florida, and we don't just mean the weather. This weekend's calendar is stacked with can't miss events, especially for avid shoppers. Stitch Lab, Miami's market for up and coming Latin-American brands pops up in the Design District, while the Manhattan Vintage show brings coveted designer finds to the Rubell Museum. Looking for something rowdier? Calle Ocho Music Festival won't disappoint, so get yourself some Cuban flag attire and get ready for a day of fun. The World Baseball Classic is still running, as is the Rennaissance Fair, and there are also plenty of smaller events, pop-ups and markets to get you out and about in the Magic City. 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

There are two versions of South Beach. The one that advertises two-for-one margaritas in plastic cups—and the one that quietly serves some of the best martinis in the city behind a velvet curtain or a lobby column. Our world-famous barrier island offers no shortage of places in which to find a world-class drink, almost always overpriced, but hey, someone’s gotta subsist in the scene. On any given night, you can move from a martini in a grand hotel lobby to a mixology-driven lounge to a 4am dive with red neon and a cash-only register—without ever crossing the causeway. The trick is knowing which door to walk through—and when. These are the South Beach bars that get it right. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to South Beach, Miami

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: Miami Open – Two weeks of world-class tennis with a star-studded player field and a serious food and drinks scene to match. (Mar 15–29, Hard Rock Stadium, ticketed) World Baseball Classic – International baseball's biggest tournament, with Miami hosting pool play, the semis and the championship game. (Mar 6–17, loanDepot Park, ticketed) Jazz in the Gardens – A two-day R&B, hip-hop and soul festival headlined by Jhené Aiko, Ludacris, Nelly & Ashanti. (Mar 7–8, Hard Rock Stadium, ticketed) Ultra Music Festival – Three days of EDM, techno and house at Bayfront Park to close out Miami Music

March in Miami hits different—the weather is flawless, the city is electric, and the calendar is stacked. The Miami Open returns to Hard Rock Stadium for another star-studded two weeks of world-class tennis, celebrity sightings, and courtside glamour. The city comes alive for Miami Music Week, culminating in the thunderous spectacle of Ultra Music Festival taking over Bayfront Park with an all-star EDM lineup including Carl Cox, DJ Snake, and Major Lazer. Culture vultures won't want to miss the Calle Ocho Festival, as 15 blocks of Little Havana transform into the largest Latin street party in the country—and it's free. Sports fans have reason to celebrate too, with the World Baseball Classic bringing international heat to loanDepot Park all month long. Whether you're catching a set at the GroundUP Music Festival's 10th anniversary, browsing rare finds at the Miami Beach Antique Show, or simply settling into a new table at one of the latest new Miami restaurants—March is Miami at its most magnetic. Here's everything worth putting on your calendar this month.

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

Miami Book Fair is launching a new ongoing literary series spotlighting Jewish storytelling, and the kickoff is free and open to the public. On March 18, nationally recognized authors Maya Arad, Allegra Goodman, Rachel Kadish and Tova Mirvis sit down with Tony Award-winning producer and writer Stacey Mindich for an evening of conversation at Miami Dade College's Wolfson Campus. The event also marks the Miami debut of Nu Reads, a bi-monthly Jewish literature subscription program from the Jewish Book Council. After the panel, the night opens up into a proper party — live klezmer-style jazz assembled by Vincent Raffard of French Horn Collective with vocals by Shira Lee, mingling and light bites. Books & Books will have titles on-site for purchase, with signings to follow. Free with RSVP; 7–10pm at the Wolfson Campus Auditorium (Building 1, 2nd Floor, Room 1261)

If you grew up in a Cuban household in Miami, Álvarez Guedes was probably playing in the background. The comedian who became the Godfather of Latin Comedy through 30-plus albums of distinctly Cuban storytelling is getting the immersive treatment this spring. Debuting April 30 inside a custom-built venue at Tropical Park, Muerto de Risa is a three-hour cabaret-style production that moves guests through themed spaces — El Bar, El Cabaret, El Patio — as stand-up, live music and theatrical storytelling unfold around them. Less traditional theater, more like stepping into a night out at a classic Havana club. Learn more here. 

Frost Science's Museum Volunteers for the Environment (MUVE) is heading to Historic Virginia Key Beach Park on March 21 for a two-hour coastal habitat workday. The morning involves planting native species and beach cleanup in partnership with the Miami Community ResilientSea Project, a county-wide initiative connecting science, education and grassroots conservation. All tools and materials are provided, just bring water, closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Community service hours are available. 

Need an art fair fix, and a push to take the Brightline up to Palm Beach? Now in its ninth edition, Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary brings 55 international galleries to the Palm Beach County Convention Center for a long weekend of blue-chip contemporary, post-war and modern masters. The roster spans Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Keith Haring, Yves Klein, Alexander Calder and KAWS alongside emerging and mid-career artists — and this year's standout is Marilyn 100, a special exhibition by Russell Young marking the centennial of Marilyn Monroe's birth, selected by the Monroe Estate as the official artist for the global celebration. Also worth seeking out at the entrance: Colombian artist Federico Uribe's monumental animal sculptures built from thousands of spent bullet casings. Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens serves as a satellite venue, with a complimentary shuttle running between the two sites Friday through Sunday. 

The Wynwood BID and Panther Coffee are launching a new monthly live music series, bringing free afternoon performances to Panther's outdoor patio on select Thursdays. The inaugural set on March 19 features Shira Lee — whose fingerpicked blues and country twang carry traces of Middle Eastern musical traditions — alongside Cuban singer-guitarist Rey Rodriguez, whose songwriting draws on Cuba's roots, blues and classic country. The two perform together with two guitars and Cuban percussion in a set built for the relaxed outdoor setting. Future dates are April 16 and May 14.

Every third Thursday, Lincoln Road transforms into an open-air gallery crawl in step with Miami Beach's Culture Crawl. Participating galleries open their doors with new exhibitions, artist meet-and-greets and giveaways. Postcard maps, QR codes and signage along the promenade make it easy to navigate. The permanent outdoor sculpture collection gives you plenty to take in between stops. Highlights include Ignacio Gana's Chocolate Girl, an ode to womanhood cast in gold; Philippe Katerine's inflatable pink figures perched Where's Waldo-style along the strip; Ruben Robierb's sweeping Empower Flower; Oscar Esteban Martinez's fragmented portrait La Herencia Viva; and Gillie and Marc's wildlife sculptures scattered across the promenade.  And if you're already on Lincoln Road on March 19, stick around: the ninth annual open-air tango season kicks off at the Euclid Oval from 6–10pm, with free lessons led by professional instructors followed by three hours of social dancing under the stars.

The Museum of Graffiti's third annual Women's History Month Bazaar, presented by Monster Energy, takes over the museum's outdoor courtyard on March 14 from 3–7pm, bringing together nine local female artists to present and sell original work in an open-air setting. The event runs during Wynwood Art Walk, so pair it with a stroll through the neighborhood's galleries and grab dinner nearby before or after. DJ sets and a food truck keep the energy up throughout the afternoon. The bazaar is free and open to the public.

To celebrate the World Baseball Classic, Kith Treats and New Balance are taking over Jungle Plaza in the Miami Design District on March 14 and 15 with a baseball compound featuring batting cages, a mini field and a Clubhouse installation showcasing the latest New Balance cleats. Nestled in the middle of it all, Kith Treats will be serving two limited-edition ice cream specials created for the collaboration: The Big Dumper — designed with New Balance athlete Cal Raleigh — which is loaded with Golden Grahams, Biscoff and shortbread cookies – and the Anda, which takes its name from the Japanese word for a safe hit and blends chocolate-covered pretzels, Rice Krispies and crushed Oreos. Both flavors will be available at Kith Treats Miami Design District and Miami Beach through March 22.

Model Volleyball is exactly what it sounds like. Now in its 16th year, this beachside tournament pits over 250 models from ten of the top agencies against each other in a daylong competition on the sand at 9th and Ocean Front. This year, Club Space takes over the music, bringing CamelPhat and Prospa to headline across both days. Doors open at noon, with agencies like Wilhelmina, Next, Elite, and Ford battling it out for the championship title. At 6PM the courts come down and Club Space opens the dancefloor, with DJs carrying the night through until 11. VIP tables sit right between the courts and the stage if you want to do it properly. Over the years it has drawn Travis Scott, Vince Vaughn, Joe Jonas, and Jamie Foxx, so you never know who you'll be rubbing shoulders with. Tickets start at $20 at modelvolleyball.com.

Chef Pancho Ibáñez spent his formative years as chef de cuisine at Pujol—a Mexico City institution with a months-long waiting list and a mole that's been aging for over 3,500 days and counting. He could have landed anywhere in Miami, but he chose a strip mall on Calle Ocho. Bistro Ocho, from San Diego's Shōwa Hospitality (the group behind Michelin-starred omakase concept Hiden and the popular Taco Stand), is the closest you'll get to Mexico City without a passport and it deserves a far more generous review than a certain bank-funded publication gave it. The vibe: Zellige tile, terrazzo floors, limewash walls—all the hallmarks of a 2024 hot interior, and perhaps the restaurant's one identity crisis. Bistro Ocho says "bistro," looks vaguely continental, and then proceeds to serve you some of the most technically serious – but comfortably familiar – Mexican food in the city. America isn't quite ready for a Mexican restaurant that doesn't feel at least a bit Mexican; there are pampas-grass floral arrangements where succulents might belong, and the barrel-vault ceiling reminded me of Grand Lux Café. That’s all to say, the space is aesthetically a little confused. The food isn’t. At 8:30 on a Friday, the room was comfortably full with a smart crowd, mostly couples and intimate four-tops, the bar fully lined with diners. Bistro Ocho is upscale but still approachable, and in a city populated by mid restaurants where most meals look like they try hard but flop at the flavor-to-price r

Tucked inside The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, Monterrey Bar feels like it exists in its own time zone. You walk past the midcentury stained glass lobby and into a low-slung room built around a T-shaped bar, where everyone faces each other and you get the sudden urge to take your drink and slide it down this Amazonite-stone runway.  The vibe: The room is wrapped in dark wood paneling over rust-colored velvet lounge seating, and the lights are always deliciously dim. No one is standing on furniture. No one is ordering bottle service. People actually sit here. They lean back into the booths. They talk. On most nights, the crowd is a mix of Venetian Islands regulars, hotel guests who’ve traded spa robes for linen, and people on first and second dates. Music matters, but it doesn’t dominate, though the vinyl selection heard on Fridays and Saturdays is top-notch. The drink: This is a stirred-drink room. Martinis, Manhattans, Sazeracs—cocktails that require patience and a steady hand. Nothing arrives fluorescent. Nothing is topped with fireworks. If there’s a seasonal Manhattan variation, it’s usually worth ordering. The Sazerac has depth without being syrupy. Even the lighter options carry backbone. The food: There is a formidable bar food menu of mostly Chinese and Japanese hits like bao buns (try kani with nori battered soft shell crab tempura) and sandos (go for the katso), though the temaki selections, with The Standard sitting so close to the ocean, are as fresh and flavorful a

The Shelborne by Proper has quietly pulled off something South Beach hasn’t seen in years: it made the hotel lobby bar the main event again. Set inside the restored Art Deco landmark on Collins, the bar is positioned squarely at the focal point of the room, forcing the space to function the way grand hotel bars once did—as a gathering place, not a pass-through, and not something tucked away to find. The vibe: Polished without being stiff. Early evening brings a design-minded crowd—fashion types, gallery-adjacent locals, hotel guests who dress for dinner in a casual chicness even if they don’t have one. It never feels chaotic; it feels curated. By day, the sunlight filters through the floor-to-ceiling windows. At night, the lighting is warm and flattering, the plush custom seating arranged in clusters that encourage lingering and conversation. The drink: Let’s not dance around it: this is the best martini in Miami right now. I’ve had enough of them across this island to say that with a straight face. What sets it apart is the texture. They blend gin with avocado oil–washed vodka, which gives the drink a faintly silky weight without dulling the edge. There’s fennel in the mix—subtle, herbal, not licorice-loud—and just the lightest touch of citrus oil across the top. Beyond that, the menu favors sophistication over sugar. A plum Manhattan riff is a little sweeter and softer. A pandan Negroni is made with coconut-washed tequila, making it feel more in line with its tropical surro

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