Dana Rozansky

As someone who called Brickell home for a decade, it’s safe to say I know the neighborhood better than I know myself. It’s a towering mecca for food, fun, fitness and everything in between—and you’ll likely find yourself in one of two camps: ready to feed into the frenzy or flee from the chaos. (Getting primed on the ins and outs of Miami public transportation should help either way.) No matter your stance on this quickly evolving, densely packed urban 'hood, one thing is undeniable: Brickell has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a head-clearing walk by the water, a killer meal, a swanky nightcap or a good sweat, Brickell delivers. Every time. Here are my tried-and-true picks for the best things to do in Brickell right now. RECOMMENDED: Everything you need to know about Brickell, Miami, including restaurants, transportation tips and more

Few neighborhoods in Miami can claim to attract both locals and tourists, balance the charm of a tree-lined suburb with the pulse and energy of a city, and draw in all ages and walks of life—from University of Miami students to fashionable abuelas and lowkey Old Florida families. Coconut Grove is simply in a league of its own, a quintessential Miami enclave with so much to offer, from amazing food to gorgeous green spaces.  The neighborhood continues to evolve while staying true to its roots, blending decades-long traditions like festivals and farmers’ markets with new destinations where people can enjoy a standout meal, retail therapy or drinks with a view. So go ahead and discover your new favorite happy hour, bookstore or just a bit of Miami history. Below, find our locals-vetted guide to the best things to do in Coconut Grove right now.  RECOMMENDED: Guide to Coconut Grove, Miami

Planning an epic date—you know, the kind that solidifies your next date—can be daunting, especially in a city like Miami with so many options and so little time. Sure, a candlelit dinner at Miami’s most romantic restaurants or a swanky evening sipping ‘tinis at this city’s sexiest speakeasies can be a surefire way to end the night together, but there’s more to life than din and drinks (don’t quote me on that one, though). Are you stuck on where to start? We’re here to take away the guesswork and help you plan a date that will have them bragging to their friends. Heck, we'll even let you take all the credit. Here are 20 fresh date ideas in Miami. 

The days of meeting your match IRL are not—we repeat, not—obsolete. Yes, it’s 2024 and you can mindlessly swipe for your dream date while lying on the couch watching another Dateline episode (of course, the husband did it). But wouldn’t it be better to go out there and get ’em yourself while maybe having a little fun, too? We think so! You never know when you might cross paths with that special someone who miraculously breaks the mold, doesn’t give you the ick and manages to restore your faith in dating and humanity with a simple smooch. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you: These are the best spots to meet singles in Miami right now. RECOMMENDED: Only-in-Miami date ideas to keep your relationship fresh and fun

2023 has been huge for Miami! Famous people and players moving in, Michelin stars being dished out like frisbees, condos stacking up like jenga blocks all around town – and with that, the rent. The state of Florida has been on everyone’s mind this year (for better or for bizarre), and if people aren’t thinking of moving here, they’re definitely thinking of spending some time. Lucky are we who are already here experiencing the best Miami has right now.  Picking “the best of” a city is no short order, so we narrowed down on a bit of a theme. For this year’s Best of the City Awards, we chose to highlight some of the unsung heroes of the scene while of course not glazing over some of the biggest moments and events in 2023 lore. From Miami getting Messi to an expansion of our nightlife scene, here are some of the best eats, events, experiences and moments of 2023.   

Hey, ladiessss! As long as we’re still getting paid only 84 percent of what a man makes, then a ladies' night in Miami is still very much warranted. After all, this is where the rent’s getting too damn high and two drinks at your standard Miami bar will ring you up a $50 tab. But let’s focus on the good here, shall we?! No matter your age or relationship status, girl time is important. Sure, you could go on a hot girl walk, indulge in a mani-pedi, or stay in and plan a murder mystery party with plenty of wine. (No? Just us?) But nothing hits quite like a proper ladies’ night out. Because it’s simply more fun to swap stories with your squad over a cocktail or two – and it’s even more fun when said cocktail is free, amirite? So go ahead and summon the girls: these are the best ladies' nights in Miami for discounted drinks and open bars.

In today’s world, everything worth visiting is immersive. It’s harder than ever to capture our attention, time and dollars, so everything from your favorite restaurant to your local botanical garden, has to level up and evolve. Gone are the days where we simply sit back and ‘watch’ (except for a good Netflix binge on the couch, of course – and we’ve got a guide for that). But for those times when we get an itch to leave the house and truly feel something, we damn well expect to be dazzled and delighted.  Enter: “immersive” experiences. Yeah, you know the type…the ones where you’re suddenly engulfed by art or you’re time-traveling thanks to a pop-up centered around nostalgia. Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, these experiences are here to stay. So, here are the top five immersive pop-ups and experiences to check out in Miami this season. Recommended: Where to see the most spectacular Christmas lights in Miami

In a city like Miami filled with beautiful people flaunting their beach bods year-round, it’s only natural to assume everyone’s getting by on salads, green juices and, well, we could venture at least a couple more guesses. But we’re all human, and even your die-hard health nuts need a little comfort food every now and then. So, whether you’ve got a hankering for greasy grub to soak up last night’s drinks or a big bowl of carbs to cure a bad case of Sunday scaries, we’re here to help you embrace that cheat meal and make sure every deliciously indulgent calorie counts. From pizza to cheesecake, Cubanos to smash burgers, these Miami comfort food dishes hit every time. Don’t worry, pilates and boot camp will be there for you tomorrow. RECOMMENDED: The best bakeries in Miami for carbs, wonderful carbs

Coffee lovers, this one’s for you. In a fast-paced city like Miami, it’s no surprise people take the term “coffee run” literally—never quite stopping to smell the roses—ahem, coffee beans. True Baristas, on the other hand, will stop you in your tracks thanks to its charming vintage truck parked right off of Brickell Ave. It will make you romanticize your cup of Joe, and encourage you to appreciate every last sip.

I never met a speakeasy I didn’t like, and this new kid on the block is sure to surprise you. Reminiscent of some of the best cocktail bars I’ve experienced around the world, Panamericano Bar brings a level of mixology to Miami that will transport you far from Brickell. Not only are the vibes immaculate, but the drinks tell a story, with special cocktail ceremonies that will take you on a journey. Just trust me and go along for the ride. Time Out tip: Find the hidden entrance behind Novecento in Mary Brickell Village and press the buzzer to be allowed inside.

Miami people are a special breed. It truly takes one to know one…and to know one is to love one…and to love one is to want to gift them the ultimate regalito this holiday season. While you could totally head to the mall and pick anything off the shelf, representing our Miami roots and #supportinglocal makes a gift that much more special. Whether you grew up visiting our iconic eating establishments or you're a recent 305 transplant who wants to get out and see the best of the city, here are the best Miami-themed gifts for 2023 guaranteed to help you win the holidays this year. RECOMMENDED: Where to find the best Miami Christmas events and holiday happenings View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dana Rozansky (@miami_foodporn) 1. That iconic A.C.’s Icees tee If you grew up in Miami, you’ve likely had your fair share of A.C.’s icees – because nothing hits quite like a frozen lemonade on a hot Miami day. But in addition to icees, this beloved establishment also sells merch that is sure to pull on the heartstrings of any Miamian in your life. So go get ‘em - cuz there’s no better conversation starter than rocking an A.C.’s Icees tee around town. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Flanigan's Seafood Bar & Grill (@flanigansfl) 2. Flanigan’s Merch!!! Miami’s obsession with Flanigan’s is all too real. Just a mention of their rib rolls or ‘Wing It Wednesdays’ will send any Miami person into a tizzy. So give the

Dating in Miami can be daunting—especially in a culture where sliding in someone’s DMs is considered a grand gesture, and in a city where catcalling from your car is deemed socially acceptable. But fear not, despite these lazy attempts at scoring a new boo, there are plenty of suitors out there hustling to get that bread! And I’m here to report that there’s no better city to do so than right here in the 305. No matter the current status of your love life (or lack thereof), Miami offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fancy date night to woo a new prospect, or simply want to hit the dance floor and turn heads at your local dive bar, here’s where you should be based on your relationship status. Trust us, veering from this list will only lead to a bad date. Photograph: Courtesy Mama Tried Single AF and on the prowl Grab your girls and hit the town, starting with a few of my personal faves: Sweet Liberty if you’re looking for a fun South Beach bar with solid drinks, dancing and debauchery (oh, and cauliflower nachos to soak up those cocktails); Bodega for Mexican speakeasy vibes featuring tacos and tequila; Socialista for a sexy lounge atmosphere where you can scout out the best-looking suitors; Mama Tried for the ultimate dance party in Downtown Miami (just look for the neon sign); or Baby Jane in Brickell for a nightcap and some ramen for when the munchies set in. Or perhaps all of the above? After all, you’re looking for a good time, not a long

Miami is a special place, and I say that with genuine love and simultaneous amusement. Maybe you’ve visited Miami every New Year’s Eve since your fake ID could get you into the clubs or maybe you’re a recent transplant from New York City capitalizing on our weather and lack of rules and think you know Miami. But unless you grew up in the 305, you may never really, truly GET IT. What’s to get, you ask? While this seemingly self-explanatory life of daytime yacht parties and late-night VIP bottle-popping may seem pretty easy to grasp, there’s more to Miami than meets the eye. We’ve got quirky habits, language barriers and questionable fashion choices to boot—all of which you’d embrace too if you’re from here. So as an O.G. Miami gal, I’m here to break it down for you. Some people are actually–wait for it–born and raised in Miami And yes, we had normal childhoods that didn’t involve fist-bumping at LIV straight out of the womb… Oh, and some of us are even gringas (GASP)! Spanglish is the local language So, escucha–if you’re smart, you’ll start learning some Spanish like, ahora mismo. It’s totally normal to kiss a complete stranger on the cheek Don’t get excited, we’re not hitting on you. Photograph: Shutterstock Miami people treat sporting events as an excuse to hit the club. Because halftime at the Heat game feels like an appropriate time to pop bottles, right? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carolina Indriago 🇻🇪🇺🇸 (@carolindriago) Boozy brunch

Miami is hot right now—literally (I’m sweating just typing this) and figuratively. Sure, our city has always been caliente, but with the influx of northeasterners, major tech companies, award-winning restaurant concepts and more, it’s truly on fire. Now if you’re a transplant, you’re likely spending your time snatching up the most coveted dinner reservations on South Beach or snapping graffiti selfies in Wynwood—and while I’ve got nothin’ but love for these neighborhoods, I’m simply here to tell you that there’s more where that came from! Sure, South Beach has some fab restaurants, fun bars, beautiful beaches, unparalleled people-watching and then some, but over the bridge, you’ll see a whole different side of Miami often reserved for proper locals. Today, I’m here to lift the curtain on a less hyped, yet equally enticing part of Miami you’ll want to explore ahora mismo. Brickell, dear Brickell…my stomping grounds and the place I’ve called home for nearly a decade (damn, I feel old). Am I biased about Brickell? Hell yes. But am I right about its grandeur? Also, yes. So now that I’ve likely overhyped the hell out of it, let me tell you why Brickell’s got it goin’ on. Whether you’re looking for a great place to indulge or a spot to sweat out last night’s booze, Brickell offers a little something for everyone. For the caffeine fiend True BaristasThis vintage coffee truck is a total MOOD. Impress your coffee date by recommending this little gem and watch their eyes light up at th