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Ryan Pfeffer

Ryan Pfeffer

Ryan Pfeffer is Time Out's former Miami Associate Editor.

Articles (85)

The best comedy clubs in Miami to make you laugh 'til you cry

The best comedy clubs in Miami to make you laugh 'til you cry

Miami loves a good laugh. And boy, do we have a lot to laugh about.  It’s true, our Magic City is ripe for roasting—but at least we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Plus, our hilarious local comedians never run out of material. From headlining stand-up sets to open mic nights and fast-paced improv shows, here are our top picks for laugh-out-loud comedy venues in Miami.  RECOMMENDED: The best Miami speakeasies to drink on the down low

The best live music venues in Miami to catch a sweaty rock show, indie beats and more

The best live music venues in Miami to catch a sweaty rock show, indie beats and more

Miami is far more known for its electronic music scene, but take a closer look and you’ll find that live rock ‘n’ roll abounds. There’s something uniquely cathartic about raging at a rock concert. The face-melting guitar solos, heart-pumping percussions and dripping frontmen screaming into the void—what a rush! From neighborhood bars to outdoor stages to local craft breweries, we’ve braved the sweatiest mosh pits (and some pretty gnarly loos, too) to bring you this updated guide. Below, get primed on the best live music venues in Miami for a good old-fashioned rock show, plus indie beats, underground rap, world music and more. RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Miami to treat yourself on the cheap

The best restaurants in Downtown Miami

The best restaurants in Downtown Miami

Little more than a decade ago, if you were to ask a Miami local for a Downtown restaurant recommendation, they’d probably have to think a while before remembering some halfway decent Cuban ventanita in the Diamond District. Likely, it closed before dark, when most shop owners pulled down heavy metal shutters and left the entire neighborhood looking abandoned. Now—well, yeah, some sections of Downtown still look that way. But Downtown has also seen an influx of younger residents recently thanks to a slew of new condo buildings. They’re helping fuel a thriving restaurant and bar scene, with bold chefs and restaurateurs willing to take risks in a part of town that’s been up-and-coming since the Crockett and Tubbs days (that’s a Miami Vice reference, for said younger residents). Our favorite Downtown Miami restaurants these days? There are so many great choices, from Vietnamese to Mexican to Spanish tapas and much more, as you’ll find from our deep list below.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Downtown Miami

The 12 best cheap hotels in Miami

The 12 best cheap hotels in Miami

Thanks to all of the fantastic attractions, restaurants and bars, Miami will drain your bank account if you’re not careful. That’s why finding a good cheap hotel can make all the difference when you're embarking upon a budget vacation here. But we’re not talking about slumming it at moldy old motels with suspiciously stained mattresses. Instead, you can discover wallet-friendly lodgings all over the city that feature enchanting hidden cocktail bars and even gorgeous MiMo-style architecture. Some are within walking distance of the best beaches in the city and others will have you just around the corner from the best brunches. So of all the best cheap hotels in Miami, which is the best fit for your vacay? Let’s pick your perfect stay… Updated for March 2024: We're giving you even more reason to visit Miami with the addition of two new places to stay; both are airport hotels with outdoor pools and amenities that will make you feel right at home.  RECOMMENDED: The best boutique hotels in Miami Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

The best Miami speakeasies to drink on the down low

The best Miami speakeasies to drink on the down low

We know what you might be thinking: mustachioed bartenders in leather harnesses, cocktails inexplicably served inside smoky glass prisms, a pretentious playlist and crowds too cool to dance. These are not that kind of speakeasy. If you’re in the mood to go out but would rather skip the bustling Miami happy hours or crowded South Beach clubs, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s a hidden away Downtown dive, a sexy high-fidelity listening lounge in Wynwood or a trendy Little River drinking den you never knew existed, these surreptitious Miami speakeasy bars offer a welcome reprieve from the ordinary. RECOMMENDED: The best bars in Miami

The best Miami hotels with hot tubs

The best Miami hotels with hot tubs

After a day at one of the best Miami beaches, we love nothing better than a long, hot soak in a hot tub. Get rid of your sandy toes, and your aching legs from all that walking, and relaaaax. What could be better than having this option available inside your own hotel room? Be rude to say no, right? The hotel room hot tub is a bit of a Miami hotel tradition. Ok, you won’t find it at the best cheap hotels in Miami or in the best boutique hotels in Miami, but you will find it at several of the city’s higher-end hotels. Go on, be a little boujee, and treat yourself. It's your vacation after all. Here are the best hotels in Miami where you can enjoy the bubbles.  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The best gay clubs and bars in Miami for a night out with the boys

The best gay clubs and bars in Miami for a night out with the boys

Miami might not be the gay mecca it once was (R.I.P. Magnum, Mova, Score and so many others). Still, this city is home to a diverse and welcoming queer community, as evidenced by our plethora of Miami drag brunches, the epic Miami Beach Pride and Wynwood Pride festivals and a new wave of inclusive queer parties popping up all around the city. Plus, a quick jaunt up north will get you to Wilton Manors, one of the most highly concentrated gay communities in the U.S. Basically, there’s plenty of action to be had if you know where to find it. So, without further adieu: Our roundup of the best gay clubs and bars in Miami right now.

The 9 best boutique hotels in Miami

The 9 best boutique hotels in Miami

Miami boutique hotels are perfect for those who feel a bit overwhelmed by the average Miami hotel. We get it: a small army of smiling employees at the concierge, long hallways straight out of The Shining, elevators that make your ears pop – it can be a bit much. That’s where the best Miami boutique hotels come in. These trendy, yet intimate lodgings (generally with 100 rooms or less) feel more like staying among friends than a giant hotel with little personality. We've recently revamped this list and added a new addition which we know you'll love for it's French tropic twist. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that these boutique properties put you within walking distance of the best Miami beaches, the best restaurants in Miami, and the absolute best of Miami nightlife.  RECOMMENDED:🌴See the best hotels in Miami🌊Check out the best hotels in South Beach Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The best Key Biscayne restaurants to try right now

The best Key Biscayne restaurants to try right now

Sure, it would be great if we could reach Key West without that grueling four-hour haul down U.S. 1. But Miamians can take in a quieter slice of island life by making the short trip over the Rickenbacker Causeway. Key Biscayne might not have the party scene of Key West, but what it lacks in cheap margaritas it makes up for in a dining scene that’s proving far bigger than the village itself. There are, we’ve learned the hard way, spots serving mediocre dishes to unsuspecting tourists. To avoid them, follow our vetted guide to the best restaurants in Key Biscayne, full of neighborhood classics, hidden gems and exciting new foodie havens. RECOMMENDED: The best waterfront restaurants in Miami for a meal in paradise

The best things to do in the Design District

The best things to do in the Design District

This petite, tree-lined enclave is sort of like Wynwood’s older sister who went to a fancy art school up north and has amazing style. Pretty, manicured Design District might contain an unusually high concentration of coveted luxury shops, but it also has amazing cultural offerings—and many of them cost nothing to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to splurge or simply window shop and take in the sights, there’s a bit of something for everyone in this relatively new Miami neighborhood. From large-scale public art to free museums, Michelin-starred meals and funky boutiques, these are the best things to do in Design District right now. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Design District, Miami

The 9 best Airbnbs in Downtown Miami for a memorable and luxurious stay

The 9 best Airbnbs in Downtown Miami for a memorable and luxurious stay

Downtown Miami, with its glitzy skyline, has transformed into a bustling urban hotspot. It's a hub for business, culture, and entertainment, and it's one of the coolest places to be in the area. With top-notch food, lively nightlife, and cultural happenings, Downtown is not only a destination in itself; it's a gateway to other fantastic Miami neighborhoods, including the iconic South Beach, artsy Wynwood, and the vibrant Brickell district. Now, when it comes to planning your Miami trip, the first puzzle piece is where to stay. The good news is you won't have a hard time finding an awesome Airbnb in Downtown Miami. There are loads of residential units with killer amenities and breathtaking views. Seriously, you might have a tough time choosing – there are that many cool options. The best part? All these pads are perfectly situated, just a short stroll or Metromover ride away from the hottest clubs and the best restaurants Downtown Miami has to offer. To make your life easier, we've rounded up our favorite Airbnb picks for Downtown Miami. Whether you're after a cozy condo for a romantic escape or a fancy penthouse that can fit a crew, we've got you covered. In simple terms, you're in for an epic trip. RECOMMENDED: 🇺🇸 A full guide to Downtown Miami🍔 The best restaurants in Miami☀️ The best things to do in Miami🏠 The best hotels in Miami💰 The best luxury hotels in Miami Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews,

The best Airbnbs in Miami Beach

The best Airbnbs in Miami Beach

Your Miami Beach Airbnb needs to fulfill certain requirements. Is it close to the best South Beach clubs? Good. Is it within walking distance from one of the best Miami beaches? Even better. Is it surrounded by Art Deco Miami gems? Perfect. Now the only thing left to do is stock up on sunscreen and get ready to have a blast in one of the coolest cities in America – day or night. Got that bottle on ice? We sure hope so. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Miami BeachRECOMMENDED: The best boat rentals in Miami Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Listings and reviews (262)

Spinello Projects

Spinello Projects

5 out of 5 stars

Even if you’re mostly unplugged from the Miami arts scene, you’ve probably heard of Spinello Projects—partly because there is no greater ally to South Florida’s artists than Anthony Spinello, the gallery’s founder. He’s had a hand in the success of locals such as Farley Aguilar and Agustina Woodgate. In its 10-plus year lifespan, Spinello Projects has jumped from location to location. But, no matter the neighborhood, Spinello Projects carries with it a well-earned reputation as one of Miami’s best and most accomplished galleries.

Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls

Launched during Art Basel, what began as a few commissioned murals to beautify the area has morphed into the city’s only outdoor street art park, featuring more than 40 murals from a roster of world-renowned artists, including Shepard Fairey, Ryan McGuinness, Kenny Scharf, How and Nosm, Faile, Retna, the Date Farmers and Liqen.In late 2012, a major installation was added to the park as a tribute to Tony Goldman—the legendary neighborhood redeveloper who sculpted the Wynwood Art District from nondescript and decaying storefronts in the mid-2000s, and who passed away in September 2012. The Kenny Scharf Garden (2219 NW 2nd Avenue, at NW 22nd Street) features a landscaped garden, fountain, large-scale mural and Scharf's own 1960s-style Airstream trailer, complete with Day-Glo interior. Fairey also reworked his mural outside Goldman's Wynwood Kitchen & Bar to incorporate an image of the man himself.Wynwood Walls is open to the public all year round. You can even take home a piece of Wynwood—the GO! Shop features a curated collection of limited edition prints from Wynwood artists.

MIA Market

MIA Market

This Design District food hall (formerly named St. Roch and then Politan Row) has choices ranging from Israeli spreads and sushi to fried chicken sandwiches. It’s a great lunch spot between shopping sprees and has plenty of seating for big groups. 

Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern

Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern

4 out of 5 stars

Affectionately referred to as Bougie’s, Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is the bar equivalent of Old Faithful. Because, as both locals and thirsty UM kids know, it’s always a safe bet for a good, boozy time. This unpretentious yet cozy dive bar sits just south of the sometimes pretentious neighborhood of Coral Gables. On the weekend, things can get a bit rowdy but never quite as hectic as South Beach. You can pop in any day of the week for reasonably priced beer and well drinks, and stay long enough to enjoy the entertainment, which ranges from karaoke to live music from local bands.

MC Kitchen

MC Kitchen

Since opening just shy of Art Basel week 2012, MC Kitchen has pioneered in its Design District home, specializing in fresh, modern Italian. Helmed by executive chef Victor Toro, who has been with the team since the beginning, the stylish, open-concept kitchen serves brunch, lunch and dinner. Pasta takes up the most real estate on the menu, but a handful of fresh additions include an ahi tuna crudo ($26) topped with fennel grapefruit, friseé, crispy quinoa and ginger citrus vinaigrette and the strozzapreti ($28), prepared with spicy Italian sausage (made in house), wild mushrooms, peppers, arugula and finished with black truffle pecorino.

Pink Pie

Pink Pie

If you are one of those people who insists on forgoing dessert only to grab a fork the minute the plate arrives at the table, we have something to tell you: we hate you. But we may have found the perfect antidote to such dessert thieves: this incredibly cute mini-pie in Wynwood. It goes by Pink Pie and it specializes in all things tiny. Not only is the shop a cozy 900-square-feet but its mini-pies measure only three inches in diameter—just big enough to enjoy without feeling obligated to share. The shop has some rotating, seasonal flavors as well as mainstay pies including Oreo Nutella, Key lime and more. And just in case all this isn’t enough to send your sweet tooth into hysteria, Pink Pie also serves little pie ice cream sandwiches (a scoop of ice cream between two pies) and pie milkshakes, which sound so deliriously sweet we can only assume they were created by three four-year-olds in a trench coat who snuck into Pink Pie’s kitchen.

The Cat Café South Beach

The Cat Café South Beach

Maybe you’re not a cat person. It’s fine. You’re wrong—but it’s fine. However, if you happen to be on the right side of history and believe—as the ancient and wise Egyptians did—that cats are graceful creatures deserving of our constant worship, then you’ll probably like The Cat Café. Part of the store is devoted to the café, where guests can order coffee and tea as well as menu items such as açaí bowls, avocado toast, salads, doughnuts, cookies and more. The cats are separated by a plexiglass wall. A donation of $12 to $15 is asked of patrons who wish to step into the cat section for some cuddle time. The good news is that if you do—and you will—fall in love with a particular feline, all animals are up for adoption. So whether you’re in the mood for a strong cup of coffee or a furry lifelong companion who is nocturnal and will hide in your underwear drawer and scare the bejesus out of you twice a week, the Cat Café is the place to go.

Tidal Cove

Tidal Cove

Tidal Cove Waterpark might just ruin all other hotel pools for you forever. The huge new addition to Aventura’s JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is less a pool and—as the name implies—more of a waterpark. Among thousands of square feet of space you’ll find a 60-foot tower with seven water slides, a lazy river, a 4,000-square-foot kids pool, a VIP adult pool area and what’s being called the first-ever FlowRider Triple surf simulation pool in the entire country. That sounds cool—even if we’re not totally sure what it is. (Apparently, it’s one of those surfing simulators but instead of just one wave, it has three.) Guests of the resort will have access to it all but locals can get in to with the purchase of a day pass, which will cost $75 Monday through Thursday and $105 Friday through Sunday. That also gets you access to the amenities available to hotel guests, like the spa, which you might need after an afternoon of going down all seven waterslides. Tidal Cove also boasts two restaurants: the casual Surf House Bar & Grill, a two-story, coastal-inspired restaurant; and the fast-casual Freestyle, featuring a wide variety of grab-and-go items, from fruit bowls and pastries to New York-style pizza and gelato. 

Artechouse

Artechouse

This digital art gallery is a decidedly 21st century experience. All the art here is digital and a lot of it is interactive too. It’s perfect if you find yourself wanting to go up and touch everything at the typical modern art gallery. Here, you can (mostly) do just that. Installations move along with you. You can manipulate the work with your fingers. And there are surprises waiting to be discovered with a wave of your hand throughout the two-story space.

The Sylvester

The Sylvester

Formerly known as Boombox (and before that, Bardot), this new Midtown concept comes from Beaker & Gray’s Ben Potts. Like that popular Wynwood spot, Sylvester will focus on great cocktails with a side of coffee. The interior sports a vintage Miami vibe. In addition to drinks, the spot also has a food menu of sharable plates: barbecue mariquitas with spicy parmesan cheese dip, smoked fish dip and a lot more. A pool table, pinball and foosball will be available as well to help pass the time.

Sophie's

Sophie's

This South of Fifth lounge toes the line between cocktail bar and nightclub. Intimate and chic, the crowd here is young and hip. The venue itself draws inspiration from ’90s France, aiming for (and delivering) some sexy South Beach vibes.

Hobie Beach

Hobie Beach

It’s not the prettiest or most sprawling beach in Miami but people still come by this narrow strip of sand for the windsurfing, water sports and a perfectly lovely view of the Downtown Miami skyline. Another big draw for Hobie: dogs! This is one of Miami’s few dog beaches so expect some pups.

News (420)

The best and weirdest Miami slang you need to know

The best and weirdest Miami slang you need to know

Miami can be a tough city to understand on many levels. In addition to emotionally, philosophically and meteorologically—it’s occasionally hard to understand just what the hell we’re saying. Sure, some of this has to do with the multiple languages spoken in Miami, but even when we’re all on the same page linguistically, sometimes the things coming out of our mouth need a special kind of translation. Fear not, confused traveler. We’ve compiled some of the most common Miami slang so you can know if you should laugh, gasp or run during your next conversation. Bro. This word is a highly adaptable filler that can be literally stuffed anywhere in any sentence for emphasis. Example: Bro, I can't wait to make an omelet tomorrow. De pinga. This Cuban curse word has a pretty NSFW translation (which refers to a certain part of the male anatomy) but all you need to know is that it is used to convey frustration, anger or dissatisfaction. Example: Bro, do we not have any eggs? De pinga! I was looking forward to an omelet! Eating shit. This one makes a grand total of zero sense but Miami folks like to say it to articulate wasting time. Example: Did you spend all afternoon eating shit instead of buying a birthday present for your cousin like mom asked you to? De pinga! La Saguesera. This Spanish term is used to loosely define the southwest area of Miami-Dade, generally used to emphasize the less interesting neighborhoods you’re forced to visit for family engagements. Example: I can’t come to

Check out all the sweet deals you can get for Miami Museum and Attractions Month

Check out all the sweet deals you can get for Miami Museum and Attractions Month

Did you know that April and May are Miami Attraction & Museum Months? Think of it like Miami Spice, but for your brain, bro. As the name implies, over the next couple of months, quite a lot of local museums and attractions are banding together to lure you out of the house with some sweet deals. More than a dozen Miami museums and attractions are offering an array of different deals—everything from two-for-one admission to half-off ticket prices. You can get into the Artechouse for 25-percent off, get BOGO tickets at PAMM or score 15-percent off admission for up to six people to Zoo Miami. There are plenty more limited deals you can comb through over on the Miami Temptations website, which includes offers from newcomers like Dezerland Park. It’s a great time to take advantage of deals like these as the tourists and spring breakers finally start to flee and we can actually leave our house without waiting in 3,458,462 hours of traffic. So get moving! You’ve got until the end of May. 

Underrated Miami: Picnics

Underrated Miami: Picnics

In Underrated Miami, we take a look at very cool Miami things that, for some strange reason, we don’t seem to appreciate as much as we should. I can count the number of times I’ve seen a picnic in Miami on zero fingers. I’ve been in parks from Coral Gables to North Beach on drop-dead gorgeous days and maybe—maybe—I’ll run into a barbecue or a wild toddler sprinting with a half-eaten banana. But no picnics. Like, ever. Why is that? If ever there was a more picnic-appropriate city, it’s Miami. We’ve got green space and clear skies. Last time I checked, we like food and being outside—but for some reason, very few of us bother to put those two things together in a public space. Have we forgotten the simple pleasures of the picnic or were we never introduced in the first place? Have you been hurt by a picnic? It is time to let go of the past, friend. Go to Central Park on a temperate day and you can barely see the grass underneath the sea of blankets holding thoughtfully curated artisanal this and that or organic whatever. Here, the closest thing you’ll find is a Publix sub being wolfed down by a sandy teen at the beach. Here’s your homework assignment, Magic City. Go home, find the biggest blanket you have, pack a cooler with food (and not just a handful of blueberries; really go for it) and pick a park. Morningside Park, Bayfront Park, South Pointe Park or David T. Kennedy Park are all picnic-appropriate. This is our non-legally binding guarantee: you will love your picnic—love

Underrated Miami: Actually going to the beach

Underrated Miami: Actually going to the beach

In Underrated Miami, we take a look at very cool Miami things that, for some strange reason, we don’t seem to appreciate as much as we should. Do you ever forget about the beach? You know—just, like, completely forget it’s there? It happens to me at least six times a year. My hopelessly lost Uber driver will take an ill-advised shortcut down Ocean Drive and then, all of a sudden, there it is. Sand. Water. Beach. It’s a moment of rediscovery that always induces a bit of guilt. This gorgeous thing right in our own backyard causes people from all over the world to stuff themselves into metal tubes and shoot through the sky at 500 miles per hour just to spread their towel on a small slice of its sand. And here we are, treating it like an aunt we don’t particularly like, visiting only a few times per year and spending the whole ride home spouting out trivial complaints. Sure, parking was a pain. Fine, it was a tad hot and overcrowded. And, okay, your aunt’s cat is terrifying and you’re pretty sure you heard it whisper a spell while carving a pentagram into its kitty litter. But, come on, you’ve got to take a moment to look at the big picture. We are lucky. For just a bit of effort, we have access to a glorious attraction only a tiny, tiny percentage of this country gets to enjoy. And even within that tiny percentage, not a lot of folks have a beach as pretty and accessible as ours. Maybe you’re a good Miamian. There are plenty of you out there, who lather up and hit the sand on a

These six Miami restaurants just nabbed James Beard nominations

These six Miami restaurants just nabbed James Beard nominations

There are few culinary honors more prestigious than a James Beard Award. The annual honors given out to chefs and restaurants around the country are a big deal, responsible for taking careers to the next level and filling reservation books for the foreseeable future. Past Miami nominees include Alter whiz kid Brad Kilgore, KYU, chef Deme Lomas and more. This year’s semifinalists were just announced and six Miami names made the list. Brad Kilgore is back again for Best Chef: South, along with beloved newcomer and head of Ghee Indian Kitchen, Niven Patel. The Biltmore’s French eatery Palme d’Or was nominated for Outstanding Service. Zak Stern (who has been nominated before) is in the running for Outstanding Baker. Stiltsville chef Janine Booth is nominated for Rising Star Chef of the Year and the Forge is in the running for Outstanding Wine Program. The 2018 James Beard Awards Gala will take place on Monday, May 7. We recommend you stop by one of the aforementioned names before then because—if they win—good luck getting a reservation.    Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

Here’s how to tell if you live in a Miami flood zone

Here’s how to tell if you live in a Miami flood zone

By now, the category four Hurricane Dorian is on all of South Florida’s radar. And while the forecast is still unable to predict where the hurricane will land with any certainty, it is a good idea to prepare nonetheless. You can find no shortage of guides for basic preparedness online, but it’s also important to know whether or not you live within one of Miami’s many flood zones. The information could help you determine whether or not you should evacuate in the case of a direct hit. Flooding is always an issue with heavy rain in Miami. It’s not unusual to see the remnants of a Tropical Depression send Miami Beach—the city’s most vulnerable area—into chaos with severe flooding. Dorian, surely, promises to bring much more rain should it connect with Miami. Miami-Dade County has a very useful online map that shows you which neighborhoods sit within flood zones. You can type in a specific address or take a wide-angle look at the city’s highest-risk areas (which, obviously, includes just about all of Miami Beach). You can also already see a map of Miami's potential evacuation zones, which may be called in waves as the hurricane blows closer.  In the meantime, stay up to date with the latest forecasts and grab supplies now. Once you’ve done all that, you may resort to Santería.   Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

Meet three Miamians pushing the boundaries of our drag scene

Meet three Miamians pushing the boundaries of our drag scene

If you still have not had the chance to experience Miami’s local drag scene, well, sucks for you. You’re missing out on what’s probably the most exciting artistic movement this city has had in a long time. Drag nights like Double Stubble at Gramps (every Thursday at 9pm) and Counter Corner at 1306 (every third Sunday) have hatched a crop of Miami drag performers who leave it all on stage night after night. The scene, through the hard work of locals like Queef Latina, has even grown strong enough to support its own festival, Wigwood. It’s a well-deserved and hard-earned boom. But there are still plenty of people out there who put drag in a box and see it through limiting parameters. As Miami’s own King Femme puts it, there are still plenty of people who have “this idea that drag is limited and done best by gay, cis men.” That’s just not the case. And in honor of the upcoming Miami Beach Pride week, we caught up with three local performers who are living proof. Andro Gin Photograph: Victoria Elizabeth Black I know you’ve performed in different spots around the country. What makes Miami’s drag scene special?Andro Gin: Miami has this come-as-you-are vibe that really allows people from all walks of life to perform all types of drag. I sometimes see in other cities the alternative performers fighting for basic respect and that’s just not something that happens here. We’re really receptive to whatever type of drag people wish to present. What’s your favorite drag night in Miami? Co

The Beaker & Gray team are launching a new cocktail concept in Midtown

The Beaker & Gray team are launching a new cocktail concept in Midtown

It’s been a tough run for the pair of Beaker & Gray-led concepts—Mason Eatery and Boombox—that recently moved in Midtown. Mason, despite being nothing but delicious and charming, shut its doors in March. And now Boombox, the music-focused cocktail bar, is gone. Sort of. It’s not all bad news. Because Boombox isn’t closing, but rebranding as the Sylvester. The concept will still be led by Beaker’s Ben Potts, but the Sylvester will focus on coffee and cocktails, with a vintage Miami vibe. In addition to drinks, the spot will also have a food menu of sharable plates: barbecue mariquitas with spicy parmesan cheese dip, smoked fish dip and a lot more. A pool table, pinball and foosball will be available as well to help pass the time. They haven’t announced an exact opening date yet but the Sylvester is expected to open this month.   Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

The chef behind Wabi Sabi is opening a sleek new Wynwood restaurant

The chef behind Wabi Sabi is opening a sleek new Wynwood restaurant

We know it’s tough to keep up with all the restaurant openings in Wynwood, but Hiyakawa is one you should definitely keep an eye on. It would be intriguing enough if Chef Shuji Hiyakawa were the only name attached to it. He—in case you didn’t know—is one of our favorite chefs in town and the creator of the very, very delicious Wabi Sabi (which you can find in Time Out Market Miami soon too). But, for this new concept, Chef Shuji teams up with Alvaro Perez Miranda, an art dealer and restaurateur whose resume includes launching Vagabond Restaurant & Bar. Hiyakawa will do what Chef Shuji does best: authentic Japanese cuisine and uncompromising quality. The menu will tackle agemono (deep-fried dishes), yakimono (grilled or pan-fried plates), shirumono (soups), zensai (appetizers), sushi and sake. A $100-per-person omakase menu will also be available. The interior renderings of this place look pretty sexy too, giving off some serious futuristic Ex Machina vibes. A slice of Hiyakawa will also house another outpost of Wabi Sabi, which specializes in donburi sushi bowls that we can not recommend more highly. Right now, the restaurant is slated to open in fall 2019.   Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.

Five can’t-miss events during Miami Beach Gay Pride 2019

Five can’t-miss events during Miami Beach Gay Pride 2019

Miami Beach Gay Pride week didn’t become official until 2009, but the celebration has become one of the year’s most anticipated events in the last decade. This year Miami Beach Gay Pride is as big as ever with seven days full of activities, parties and plenty to see and do both on and off Miami Beach. Here are a few of our personal highlights (the parade, obviously) to add to your Pride week itinerary. We’ll see you there, right? 1. Pride Kick-Off Party Start Pride the right way with a party at Basement. The trendy Mid-Beach spot welcomes Pride-goers from near and far for a night of dancing, bowling and ice skating. The night’s international rotation of DJs includes Anne Louise, De Felipe, DJ Theresa and more. 2. Pride Lights the Night Kicking off Pride for the third year in a row, buildings throughout Miami are illuminated in rainbow colors as a tribute to victims of the Pulse shooting. Join organizers on Lincoln Road and watch them flip the switch on the iconic parking garage, Miami Beach City Hall and more buildings throughout the city. 3. PAMM Pride Night Pride week invades PAMM’s waterfront terrace for a night of performances, installations and music from local favorites. Expect drag courtesy of Miss Toto, King Femme, Missy Meyakie LePaige and Kat Wilderness. Miami bass duo Basside performs the music and the film Happy Birthday, Marsha! will be playing on a loop in PAMM’s auditorium in memory of the Stonewall Riots’ 50th anniversary. 4. Beach Party Festival Village HQ fo

How to survive Miami Music Week according to four veteran DJs

How to survive Miami Music Week according to four veteran DJs

Ever go to Disney World when you were a kid? Do you remember that feeling of being at once insanely excited and absolutely crushed by the range of options? That’s what Miami Music Week can feel like. So much to do. So little time. We know. But fear not, lover of dance music. We collected a few expert opinions from MMW veterans who will be running around town this week for their own gigs. We asked Claude VonStroke for his tips on time management. All Day I Dream mastermind Lee Burridge gave us his favorite hangover food—and it’s a good one, too. Plus, superstar DJ pals David Guetta and Martin Garrix let us in on their preferred places to crash in Miami. Where do you like to stay when you’re in Miami?Claude VonStroke: I love staying at Soho Beach House but they are always booked up way in advance. It depends if my shows are more in downtown or South Beach. Since we are doing Space this year I’ll stay at the East Hotel.Martin Garrix: W Miami, the Edition or the Fontainebleau Hotel.David Guetta: The Edition.  What’s the one Miami meal that’ll bring you back to life after a long night? CVS: My favorite place in Miami is a Peruvian restaurant called Ceviche 105. When you see it from the outside it almost looks like a nice chain restaurant but when you go inside it’s some of the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten.Lee Burridge: La Sandwicherie— a veggie sandwich with avocado, maybe a juice or smoothie, then across the road to Mac's Club Deuce to carry on. DG: I love chicken with ric

Uber and Lyft are both offering free specials in Miami right now

Uber and Lyft are both offering free specials in Miami right now

March might be the most popular time in Miami for ride-share apps. With spring break, Miami Music Week and the Miami Open all converging on the city, there are a ton of car-less folk in the 305 looking to bounce around town. Perhaps that’s why both Lyft and Uber are offering some special promotions right now. Lyft’s deal is centered around Women’s History Month. The app is offering free rides to three local women-owned businesses: Caja Caliente, Wynwood Yard and Stanzione. You can also ride to the Women’s History Gallery at Women’s Park for free. Just enter the code WHMMIA19 in the app and head to one of these destinations for $0. Not to be left behind, Uber is launching its in-car commerce provider in Miami just in time for Miami Music Week. The new feature, called Cargo, lets passengers use their app to buy a selection of snacks, cosmetics and personal care items. If you do happen to get an Uber with a Cargo box, you can also get a free Clear Complexion Purely Matte Peel Off Mask courtesy of Aveeno. This should all come in handy as thousands prepare to flood Miami and traffic reaches peak levels of infuriating. Might you still get stuck on the MacArthur for seven hours? Perhaps. But at least you’ll have a free face mask to keep you fresh and clean.   Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.