Perfect Places For People Watching

The weekend is upon us and if you're a Miami native means you are gearing up to do one of several things such as partying at the hottest club in the city, tanning at a gorgeous beach or going out for dinner.

But dinner doesn't always have to be just dinner. One of my favorite activities, while I'm dining out is "people watching."

Here's my list of the criteria for restaurant I plan on visiting:

• come with high recommendations from a friend or co-worker
• fresh ingredients
• a great wine/cocktail menu
• great location
• and of course a place where I can do plenty of "people watching"

The casual hobby of people watching is described as the act of observing people and their interactions, usually without their knowledge. This differs from voyeurism in that it does not relate to sex or sexual gratification. Eavesdropping may accompany the activity, though it's not required (Wikipedia).

Here are my fave spots to "people watch: in Miami:

Nexxt Cafe:

Nexxt Cafe is located in the heart of Lincoln Road. This is the perfect restaurant for good casual food in a completely relaxed environment. I love hitting up Nexxt Cafe for Sunday brunch.

The food portions are large enough to feed a small family. But my number one reason for visiting this beloved diner is the chance to "people watch." Lincoln Road is known for attracting tourists and natives alike, as well as animals (the pets of the aforementioned.)


News Cafe:

Another fun and casual spot for "people watching" is News Cafe. It's open for business around the clock and because it's parallel to Ocean Drive you will always find high volumes of people traffic.

The food and drinks here are also great. I love to have breakfast at this place!


Sushi Samba:

Sushi Samba is known for infusing flavors from Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisines. The Miami location which is also on Lincoln Road is a favorite among the locals.

And when you sit outdoors, you'll get to relish in the weird fun world that is Lincoln Road by "people watching."


Greenstreet Cafe:

Big comfy couches and yummy eats make GreenStreet Cafe one of the hottest spots to go for brunch or drinks with your friends. I enjoy doing both.

And because of it's cool corner street location you have a vantage point when it comes to "people watching," through a lot of the streets in the Grove.

What places do you enjoy going for "people watching"?

Have a wicked weekend loves!

xoxo

Take a bite out of the Big Apple

I'm in love with New York City, but who isn't?

I love the stores, the people, heck I even like riding the subways. But that's only because I'm a visitor.

But perhaps my most favorite thing about the big city is the restaurants.

And just recently, I've noticed how many NY based restaurants have opened up right here in our own backyard.

So here's my compilation of restaurants where you can take a bite out of the Big Apple, without booking a trip.

The Shake Shack opened its doors in 2004 in Madison Square Garden, and since then they've expanded to D.C., Connecticut, Miami and even the Middle East.

The chain's hamburgers, hot dogs, custards and shakes are some of the best in the country, so the next time you're on Lincoln Road make sure you check it out.

5 Napkin Burger named after the franchise's most famous dish-- the 5 napkin burger, which is 10 ounces of fresh ground chuck topped with Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and rosemary aioli.

YUM!

Although famous for its burgers, this restaurant also has sushi rolls, salads and a huge selection of cocktails.

Named after a little shoe, Scarpetta opened up inside of the Fontainebleau and it's one of the few places in Miami where you can find delicious, authentic Italian food.

Jennifer Lopez celebrated her 42nd birthday at Scarpetta.

Another great Italian restaurant that opened its doors in Miami is Il Gabbiano, which is owned by The Masci brothers, who also own and operate Il Muliano in the Greenwich neighborhood.

An American classic, Houston's is a beloved spot that has great service.

Houston's Chicago-style spinach dip is by far the best dip I've ever tried.  I always go there for the dip, drinks and a nice view.

MR CHOW is a world renowned franchise and especially popular in LA and NYC, so I was so thrilled to hear that a restaurant would open inside of the W Hotel in Miami Beach.

And because it is Miami, you can find all of their classic dishes, along with some new exciting recipes executed by the head chef.

NOBU is possibly the most recognized Japanese restaurant in the world, and I'm just glad that we have a restaurant here in Miami.

Make sure you wash down any of their amazing signature dishes with their mango martini, which is to absolutely die for.


Are there any other NY restaurants that have opened in Miami that are not on this list?

Let me know and I'll add them.

Also, don't forget Miami Spice starts from August 1st-September 30th and some of the restaurants mentioned above will be participating. Check it out: Miami Spice Participating Restaurants


Until next time!

xO's,
your GTG

"There are no better conversations than those that take place around great food and great company."--Yours truly.