the ritz-carlton, very expensive, (786) 276-4000
the sagamore, expensive, (305) 535-8088
the shore club, very expensive, (305) 695-3100
dining
the blue door, brazilian/french, very expensive, (305)
674-6400
jerry's famous deli, sandwiches, salads, and more,
inexpensive, (305) 534-3244
nobu, japanese-peruvian, very expensive, (305) 695-3232
san loco tacos, takeout, inexpensive, (305) 538-3009
versailles restaurant, cuban, moderate,
(305) 445-7614
shopping
bal harbour shops, (305) 866-0311
barneys co-op, (305) 421-2010
me & ro jewelry, (305) 672-3566
scoop, (305) 532-5929
nightlife
the mansion, (305) 531-5535
mynt lounge, (786) 276-6132
nikki beach, (305) 538-1111
skybar miami beach, (305) 695-3100
we said...
our places to see (and maybe be seen) in miami
lodging
the clay hotel & hostel, inexpensive, (305) 534-2988. it
takes a village. at least that's the feeling you get at this
friendly spanish-style complex that welcomes students, families,
and anyone else looking to save a buck. there are shared dorm
rooms, but larger private ones with baths, too, all of which are
smack-dab in the heart of south beach.
the hotel chelsea, moderate, (305) 534-4069. this affordable
art deco retreat features mood lighting, crisp linens, bamboo
floors, and feng shui styling. extras include gym passes, free
drinks from seven to eight p.m., and vip passes to the
neighborhood's hottest clubs.
dining
island's café, moderate, (305) 867-8883. dine here, and you may
just be sampling the handiwork of the next allen susser or douglas
rodriguez. that's because island's kitchen serves as the hands-on
classroom of a nearby culinary college, whose students whip up an
array of dishes that are almost always appetizing and adventurous.