Meinglitter: Travel Guide # 3

Miami is one of my favorites cities in the US. Not only because I have family there, but there is a Latin cool atmosphere to the city that sometimes it just feels like you are in another country. Also, I just love having people talk to you in Spanish by default and responding to them No hablo Espanol or English, please? I know, it's a shame that I am not 100% fluent in Spanish!
Miami is a lot of things I love: hot, friendly, it is the home of lot of beautiful people and of great food. Once you have your good list of addresses of go to places, there is no hit and miss here. That's why I've asked my lovely friend Courtney Recht to help me on this, since she is from Miami but currently a home sick American but fully experiencing and discovering Lyon aka the city of love.
So let's get started:

1. Where to stay
There are several great hotels to stay in Miami, from big chains, to small family owned properties. Of course, budget is something to take into consideration while booking, but thankfully Miami isn't among the top expensive lodging cities in the US.
My place of choice is the Conrad Miami on Brickell avenue. It is not only due to the fact that its a brand new property with luxurious views of the bay, but the service plays a big part in all Conrad properties. In all levels, we are received with a smile and such willingness to go above and beyond to please customers.

The mirrored exterior of the Conrad

The stunning view from the Conrad

The other great thing about the Conrad is their top floor bar with amazing views, where they also serve a delicious buffet style breakfast. Of course I couldn't say no!

Conrad Miami - 1395 Brickell Avenue

Miami, FL 33131

305 503 6500

2. Where to Eat

Given the number of Spanish Speaking people that currently live in Miami, the culture is definitely Latin inspired, therefore there are several Latin and Central American style/ fusion restaurants. But not only that, Miami is very cosmopolitan when it comes to food and nightlife, there is an option for everybody. So here are my choices to make your belly happy:

- Novecento

This Argentinian bistro was a great surprise. I went on a Friday night with a big party and they were quick to seat us and the service was spotless. The food deserves a review of its own, this is what we call something to write home about.

Empanadas were flaky with juicy fillings, and 4-5 kinds to choose from, needless to say we ordered them all. I had steak since I always have steak when in an Argentinian restaurant: that's the whole point, right? Mine was cooked to perfection, the meat was very tender and flavorful.

Drinks kept coming to the table and we had a great time!

Having a great time at Novecento with my beloved cousin Marisa

Novecento

1414 Brickell Avenue

Miami, FL33131

305 403 0900

novecento.com

- Perricone's Marketplace & Cafe

A true Italian place, a very romantic setting with outdoor seating under lighted trees, attentive service: what's there not to love?

We came here on a double date night with my parents. The food was delicious and their wine list is very complete. If you come here, I am sure you will have as much a delightful evening as we did.

15 Southeast 10th Street

Miami, FL 33131

305 374 9449

perricones.com

- Le Bouchon

This is one of Courtney's favorite. Her husband, like mine, is from Lyon which is known to be the best area to eat in France. So I can relate to her choosing this Lyon style bistro in Miami as one of her favorites.

On the menu: escargots, foie gras, all different kinds of charcuterie and of course, mussels with french fries!

3430 Main Hwy

Miami, FL 33133

305 448 6060

lebouchondugrove.com

- Ortanique on the Mile

Another one of Courtney's favorites. A Caribbean restaurant by the famous chef Cindy Hutson known by it's large portions and punchy flavors. A place not to miss!