Amen, Dorothy!

Was it Dorothy that said, “There is no place like home” ? I got to tell you, the girl was right.

I have been dubbed a “visonary” (Ocean Drive), “a young scientist” (BizBash Florida) and my personal favorite, “el mad genius” (Ocean Drive en Espanol). However, I remain humble in knowing one thing for sure...I am a Miami boy--born and bred.

When it comes to the place I call home, Frommer’s will talk of sunny skies and celebrity-drenched beaches. Zagat will boast al fresco dining and budget-friendly bodega bites. Here, I will dish on MY favorite Magic City eateries.

Photo Courtesy of Vieri John Terenzio

Lincoln Road is known for its people watching, art galleries, and not-so-modest holiday block parties. My two Lincoln Road favorites? Balans for Breakfast and Sushi Siam for a late lunch.

Moving on to the not-so-simple, the W South Beach’s Living Room features an unprecidented happy hour. Spearheaded by Elad Zvi and Gabriel Orta, the venue’s Bar Lab cocktail program is bar none (no pun intended). The team uses fresh ingredients, exotic herbs, spices, and an array of delicacies to awaken your senses. Try the Miami Cocktail made with white rum, creme de Menthe and lemon.

The 305 also boasts an impressive portfolio of Asian-inspired restaurants. Splurging for one dinner is a must. Try The Restaurant located within The Setai which serves up its plates family-style or Mr. Chow (also within the W South Beach) that cateres to the guest having an invidual dining experience according to personal preference.

For a happy ending, I have a not-so-fancy favorite; Cold Stone Creamery. The parlor, known for its custom-made creations, has more than 1,400 stores nationwide and nearly 15 in the Miami area including a Kosher certified location in Aventura!