Miami Beach is an island just a few miles east of Miami and can be reached by a number of causeways and bridges. Yet, since many of the best labs and rental houses are in Miami Beach, few people shooting and staying there ever need to leave the beach. South Beach (or SoBe) refers to the southern tip of Miami Beach (basically below 23rd Street) and is just another name for the Art Deco District.
In the early 1990s, Miami Beach became the 'Fashion Catalog Capitol of the World' because photographers discovered that by using long telephoto lenses wide open, it was easy to capture images of beautiful models with out-of-focus backgrounds of other photographers shooting images of beautiful models with out-of-focus backgrounds...
The upside of all of this was an influx of labs and equipment rental houses. On the downside, all the locations that used to let you shoot for free will now remind you that the movie crew of 100 that trampled their place paid them $5000 for 20 hours. So now the price to shoot in front of their hotel for 20 minutes is, of course, $5000...
Monday, February 12, 2007
FILM PERMITS
Virtually every municipality in South Florida has it's own film office and if you pull a permit for Miami Beach, it won't do you a bit of good in Miami and vice-a-versa. To further confuse things, if you're shooting on a public beach in Key Biscayne, you need a Miami Dade County permit but the rest of the island requires a permit from the Village of Key Biscayne. The good news is that they're figured out that this confuses everyone, so you can now apply for permits countywide at www.filmiami.org and let the film offices sort it out and get back to you.
The other good news is that all of the offices are fairly helpful and will do their best to refer you to the office you need. You'll need to carry $1,000,000 liability insurance to pull a permit from any of them. If you don't have insurance, you can also have a production company handle this for you, but expect to pay $250-$350 for EACH permit that they pull.
The City of Miami requires an additional $100 sidewalk permit if you are on a public sidewalk, but they'll usually waive this for a small 2-3 person crew. If you're shooting on private property, most municipalities don't require a permit and if you have a small crew. But if you're Cecil B, DeMilling it up and have a huge crew that includes art directors and clients, you'll definitely want to go through the trouble, so that you don't look like a jerk if you get shut down.
Finally, this should be obvious, but once you get a permit, READ it. There are many restrictions. Among them, you'll need to hire an off-duty cop for a minimum of 4-hours if you plan to stop traffic. And with very few exceptions, a photography permit doesn't specifically give you the right to drive your rental SUV over topless sunbathers sleeping on the beach.
Miami-Dade County 305 375-3288/FAX 305 375-3266, 111 NW First St #2510, Miami, FL 33128 Contact: Jasmine or Cindy
City of Miami Beach 305 673-7070/FAX 305 673-7063, 1700 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach 33139 Contact: Graham Winnick or Silvia Royer
City of Miami 305 860-3823/FAX 305 859-2128, 2700 S Bayshore Drive, Miami 33133 Contacts: Daniel Davila, Katherine Sanoja, Robert Parente - Director
City of Coral Gables 305 460-5262, Contact: Bridget (Open from 7:30-Noon)
Village of Key Biscayne 305 365-5511 , 85 W McIntire St, Key Biscayne
City of Ft Lauderdale 954 468-1513/FAX 954 847-3454 Contact: Susan Crane
Florida Keys Film Office 305 294-2587, 410 Wall St., Key West FL 33304
The other good news is that all of the offices are fairly helpful and will do their best to refer you to the office you need. You'll need to carry $1,000,000 liability insurance to pull a permit from any of them. If you don't have insurance, you can also have a production company handle this for you, but expect to pay $250-$350 for EACH permit that they pull.
The City of Miami requires an additional $100 sidewalk permit if you are on a public sidewalk, but they'll usually waive this for a small 2-3 person crew. If you're shooting on private property, most municipalities don't require a permit and if you have a small crew. But if you're Cecil B, DeMilling it up and have a huge crew that includes art directors and clients, you'll definitely want to go through the trouble, so that you don't look like a jerk if you get shut down.
Finally, this should be obvious, but once you get a permit, READ it. There are many restrictions. Among them, you'll need to hire an off-duty cop for a minimum of 4-hours if you plan to stop traffic. And with very few exceptions, a photography permit doesn't specifically give you the right to drive your rental SUV over topless sunbathers sleeping on the beach.
Miami-Dade County 305 375-3288/FAX 305 375-3266, 111 NW First St #2510, Miami, FL 33128 Contact: Jasmine or Cindy
City of Miami Beach 305 673-7070/FAX 305 673-7063, 1700 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach 33139 Contact: Graham Winnick or Silvia Royer
City of Miami 305 860-3823/FAX 305 859-2128, 2700 S Bayshore Drive, Miami 33133 Contacts: Daniel Davila, Katherine Sanoja, Robert Parente - Director
City of Coral Gables 305 460-5262, Contact: Bridget (Open from 7:30-Noon)
Village of Key Biscayne 305 365-5511 , 85 W McIntire St, Key Biscayne
City of Ft Lauderdale 954 468-1513/FAX 954 847-3454 Contact: Susan Crane
Florida Keys Film Office 305 294-2587, 410 Wall St., Key West FL 33304
PHOTO ASSISTANTS/DIGITAL TECHS
DIGITAL TECHS:
Mike Hamel 305.632.3546
Alexander Espriella 305-970-6284/305-807-0299
PHOTO ASSISTANTS:
Miami assistants are generally quite experienced and familiar with most camera formats and brands of equipment. Many have worked in New York or with many of the big name shooters who come to town. Even so there is a huge range of experience from those who have been doing this for decades to some that are fresh out of school. Just be sure they're familiar with your needs and equipment.
Abdel Lafi 954 946-7725/Pager 954 690-0108
Alex Larson 305 725-4092
Alex De Laet 305 672-4283, 917 523-3697 cell
Alfredo Fernandez 305 829-2159, pager 305 452-1252
Benjamin Cento 305 255-0894 , Pager: 800 980-0232,
Brad Youngberg 954 295-6637
Craig Miller: Cel 305 772-5152/Pager 800 915 3177
David Friske 305 446-8169, Pager 305 465-3852
Francisco Castillo 786 269-7500
Francisco Gonzalez 822-3320/Cel 992-5359
Guillermo Erb 305 947-8536/Cell 305 502-3977
Jaoquin Rivas 786 412-1047
Jim Weber 305 981-0019, 800-982-3110/305 502-7506
Jim Wenger 954 370-7179/Pager: 800 778-0184
Jonathan Dann 917 453-1746
JP Cunningham 305 761-6011
Michael Pawlowski 305 588-4676
Orlando Behar 305 773-9434
Orlando Noah 305 695 8415/Cel 305 613-0309
Raul F. Rubiera Pager 305 464-0290/Cell 305 609-8666
Additional Referrals are available through:
ASMP/Florida website:
Big Toe Productions 800 471-6394 Jamie McEntee
PHOTO LABS:
Color House: 305 531-1980, 3324 N. Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33127:
B&W, C-41, E-6 lines, Digital Scanning & LightJet Printing. Open 7 days a week and until 10pm on weekdays. These guys are the best lab in town and so good that as many labs have shut down, they've bucked the trend to open Color House New York on Lafayette in NYC. Owner/Manager: David
Premiere Vue: 305 673-2436, 1860 West Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 E-6 Only Contact: Daniel Fortier
District Lab: 305 672-1002, 1825 West Ave #3, Miami Beach C-41 only & Digital only
Darkroom Productions: 305 532-2185, 378 NE 56 Street Miami 33137 Best B&W printing in Miami. Contact: Randy Mitchell
SCANS/DIGITAL:
Color House: 305 531-1980, 701 4th Street, Miami Beach
District Lab: 305 672-1002, 1825 West Ave #3, Miami Beach
DNA: 954 966-1109 Ft. Lauderdale
CAMERA & GRIP SUPPLIES
CAMERAS/FILM/SUPPLIES/RENTAL EQUIPMENT/MIAMI BEACH:
Aperture Professional Supply 305 673-4327, 1330 18th St (between Bay and West Ave) Miami Beach - Also Studio Rental
Splashlight Miami 305.672.9669, 555 Jefferson Ave, Miami Beach Also Studio Rental
CAMERAS/FILM/SUPPLIES/RENTAL EQUIPMENT/MIAMI:
Carousel Studio 305 576-3686, 3700 NE 1st Court, 33137 Contact: Tommy - Also Studio Rental
One Source Studios 305 751-2556, 6440 NE 4th Ct, Miami 33138 Contact: Andrew Dillon - Also Studio Rental
Pitman Photo - 800-252-3008/305 256-9558, 13911 South Dixie Highway, Miami, FL 33156 - Pro Films Stock house
World Wide Photo 305 756-1744, 5040 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, Phone - Pro Films - also rents Profoto, Speedotron & Norman strobes and other pro equipment and cameras (35mm to 8x10) Contact Derik
World Wide Photo 305-262-2733, 7380 S.W. 40th St., Miami, FL. 33155 Contact: Alex
GRIP EQUIPMENT/MIAMI:
Stage Equipment & Lighting 305 891-2010/fax 305 893-2828, 12250 N.E. 13th Court, North Miami Beach FL 33161 - Contact Steve Grieco - Sells grip consumables & rents C-stands, Lowel - Arri Lighting Kits and HMI Packages, service, etc.
STUDIO RENTALS
STUDIO RENTALS/MIAMI BEACH:
Big Time Productions/Paris Theater, 550 Washington Ave, Miami Beach 305 672-5117. Annie, Bruce and Walter wouldn't be caught dead shooting anywhere else, but beware, they're known to charge for EVERYTHING including extension cords, coffee makers and rumor has it that they even count the sheets of toilet paper. They definitely will charge overtime if you're not completely out the door one-minute past six. That said, it's a beautiful space with one enormous indoor and 4 rooftop studios located inside a renovated art deco movie theater. Contact: Juan
Splashlight Miami - Wynwood Art District, 167 NE 26th Street, Miami, FL 33137
305 572 0094 - Full line of rentals, cameras, lenses, strobes, etc.
STUDIO RENTALS/MIAMI:
One Source Studios - 6440 NE 4th Ct, Miami 305 751-2556 Great high-end studio with two stages include one with large 2-story cyc and great make-up and hair area and kitchen. Catering available. Contact: Andrew Dillon
Carousel Studio 3700 NE 1st Court, 33137 Phone: 305 576-3686 FAX: 305 576-0883 Large Drive-in Studio 31' x 25' full cyc 3 sides & ceiling, also smaller budget-priced studio. Also sells film - rents lighting & grip gear. - Strobe repair on site by the Flash Doctor for studio rental information Contact: Tommy
Aperture Professional Supply - 385 NE 59th St, Miami, FL 33137 305-759-4327 Also rents everything for a shoot
Studio 27, 27 NE 27th St, Miami 305 573-3311 - In the Winwood Gallery District (downtown area) 20'x 50' - bay doors. Contact: Louis Jay
Glasshaus Studios - 8000 Biscayne Blvd, Miami - Features 26ft windows facing East and North, a 30x28 corner cyc, 3000 sq ft pool deck, 8000 sq ft roof, Contact: Judd Allison - Picture Perfect 305 379-9954
Splashlight Miami - 26th Street Studio, 167 NE 26th St, Miami, 305 672-9669 Full line of rentals, cameras, lenses, strobes, etc.
Ciel Bleu Studios - 5781 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 10 Penthouse, Miami 305 758-8543
Edgewater Studios - 1920s Victorian House & Courtyard, NY Daylight Loft, 15x12 outdoor syc on wheels Contact: Alvaro 305 573-3311
El Habito, 91 NE 36 St, Miami 305 572-0961
STUDIO RENTALS/NORTH MIAMI:
Great Southern Studios - 15221 NE 21 Ave., North Miami Beach 305 944-2464 - Large Production Sound studio (50x60), Small studio (30x30x30) - sells expendables in the grip store on site - contact: Elana
Studio 12345, 12345 West Dixie Hwy, North 305 893-9495 Contact: Debra or Paul
PRODUCTION SERVICES
PRODUCTION/LOCATION VANS:
ACT Productions 305 538-3810, 1220 Collins
First Option Productions 305 532-7243/ 786 269-3700 Aki Kanaya
Foto Finish RV 305 652-9774, 820 NE 182 Terrace - Bob
MAPS 532-7880, 232 Fifth St
Metromotion 531-1700, 1550 Lennox Ave
Picture Perfect Productions 305 379-9954, 8000 Biscayne Blvd
Star Movers 305 893-7744 , 12100 NE 16th Ave 33161
Star Stuff 305 895-2003, 12100 NE 16th Ave 33161
FASHION STYLISTS:
Sarah Leon 954-566-4760
Monica Olman Fashion & Prop Stylist 305 895-2505
Rebecca Martin Photo Styling - 305 538-5251/Pager: 305-862-2530
Joanne Gelberg Justiz - 305 884-4961 - Location Scout and wardrobe
Sally Jacobs Styling & Production 305-868-4313/800-401-4313 5222 N. Bay Rd. Miami Beach
WARDROBE COLLECTIONS AND ASSISTANT STYLISTS:
Teddy Gunter - Fashion Stylist 305 672-2012/cel 398-3973/757-6650. Teddy also runs Atomic Funk 305 318-3973 which supplies assistants to fashion stylists and rents wardrobe.
LOCATION SCOUTS:
Julie Chang
PRODUCERS:
Gail Bruns Producer 305 666 2928 (location vans, permits, assistants)
Big Toe Productions 800 471-6394 Jamie McEntee - Assistants, locations
* Also contact any of the Talent Agencies listed below, most have a list of Stylists, Producers and Make-up artists available, depending on your needs.
MAKE-UP/HAIR:
Steven Kelly 305 673-4996
Jesus Abreu (Agency: Next 305 531-5100)
Many of the modeling agencies that follow also represent make-up artists
FOOD STYLISTS:
Ellie Stern 305 598-8200, cell 786 623 333
PROP RENTAL:
Non Stop Prop Shop & Wardrobe Rental 305 895-2505,
1455 NE 129th Street, Miami: Props, styling Contact: Monica
Stone Age Antiques 305 633-5114, 3236 S River Drive, Miami
PROP CONSTRUCTION:
Propmasters 305 826-1900, 9940 NW 79th Ave - Paul
CATERING:
Rosewood Caterers 305 885-6674 - 1000 E 16 St, Hialeah
MESSENGER/COURIER:
Comet Delivery Services 305 591-2262, 7902 NW 66th St, Miami
Sureshot Messenger 305 858-9922
ASAP Courier 305 947-7477
Sunshine State Messenger 305 944-6363
LOCAL FedEx:
FedEx World Service Center - 200 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33130 - Latest Dropoff: 8:00pm (5:00 pm Sat.)
USA Pack & Post - FedEx Authorized Ship Center - 1348 Washington Ave, Miami Beach FL, 33139 - latest drop off: 5:30pm (11:00am Sat.)
FedEx World Service Center - 14101 SW 119th Ave, Miami FL, 33186 - latest drop off: 7:00 pm (5:00pm Sat.)
LOCAL WEATHER:
Local weather fluctuates between Hot & Humid and Humid & Hot, but for more accurate information, please check:
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/local/33139
TALENT AGENCIES
Irene Marie Models 305 672-2929, 728 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
Michele Pommier 305 672-9344, 927 Lincoln Rd #200, Miami Beach
Next Models 531-5100, 209 9th Street, Miami Beach
Pommier Kids, 305 531-5475 , 927 Lincoln Rd #200, Miami Beach Lori Quintero
Page Parkes-Models Rep 305 672-4869, 763 Collins Ave - 4th fl, Miami Beach
Stellar Talent 305 672-2217 Actors and regular looking people. Contact: Cindy
The Green Agency 305 532-9225, 1329 Alton Rd, Miami Beach
Ford Models 305 534-7200, 311 Lincoln Road Suite 205 Miami
Wilhelmina Models Miami 305 672-9344, 931 Lincoln Rd. #200 Miami Beach
HOTELS
The hospitality industry has come a long way in Miami Beach. Gone are the sweet days when Concierge & waitstaff did much other than look 'chic & unapproachable' in that 'velvet rope' sort of way...how I miss that!
If you have even the slightest plans of catching some zzzz"s during your stay, and really, who comes to SoBe to sleep, you can do that at home, but if you must, under no circumstances should you consider staying within a 2-block radius of the uber-noisy bars on Ocean Drive, eg: The Clevelander Hotel et al. Don't be fooled by the facades of those cutesy hotels, the walls are thin.
Hotels, Miami Beach: Pricey
Casa Tua 1700 James Ave, Miami Beach 305 673-1010 Very small exclusive 5 suite boutique hotel catering to your every desire.
Delano 1685 Collins Ave, SoBe 800 555-5001. An Ian Schrager/Phillippe Stark (Morgans Group) collaboration whom are responsible for putting 'Hip' into the hotel industry more than a decade ago. Honestly, what hasn't been written about this place...it is "all that," & more!
EdenRoc Resort & Spa 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 800 327-8337 A great example of architect Morris Lapidus circa 1950's. After a much needed renovation, it has been restored & updated with an excellent spa & services.
Gansevoort South, 2377 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 866.932.6694
Loews Miami Beach 1601Collins Ave, Sobe 305 604-1601 High occupancy hotel with quick valet service and central location, especially to the convention center.
Raleigh Hotel 1775 Collins Ave, Sobe 305 534-6300 Now under new ownership, Andre Balazs Properties the folks who brought you Chateau Marmont, The Standard & The Mercer Hotel. The best pool in Miami Beach for those channeling Esther Williams...
The Setai 2001 Collins Ave, SoBe 305 520-6100 As soon as you enter the lobby, you start to feel the tension leaving your body. From a sip of the Chilli Passion Fruit Martini (their signature) at the long swanky bar to the tranquil sexy candle lit courtyard, it is the epitome of Zen-Chic...but pricey, ouch!
The Ritz Carlton, South Beach 1 Lincoln Rd, Sobe. 800 241-3333 Unlike the others, this one comes with a male model tanning butler, a treat for the ladies. David Bouley Evolution was a recent additon.
The Shore Club 1901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 695-3100 Another Morgans Group hotel/condo. Featuring the oh sooo cool SkyBar and Nobu Restaurant.
The Sagamore Hotel 1671 Collins Ave, Sobe 305 535-8185 Accommodating to movie & still crews...and Diddy's slept here, why shouldn't you?
Hotel Victor 1144 Ocean Drive, Sobe 305 428-1234 This beautifully designed hotel & restaurant gives you a legitimate reason to venture onto the very touristy Ocean Drive. Check out the jellyfish at Vix...ah, so soothing.
The Fountainbleau 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach 305 538-2000 This newly renovated hotel is the Fab 50s at it's kitchy best - famous for the pool scene between Bond and Goldfinger. Vegas in Miami...
HOTELS/MIAMI BEACH/MODERATE:
Albion Hotel 1650 James Ave @ Lincoln Road 305 913-1000
Bentley Hotel and Beach Club 510 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 800 236-8510
Cardoza Hotel 1300 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 535-6500 Gloria & Emilio Estefan's place...once owned by Al Capone...
Casa Grande 834 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 866.420.CASA
Century Hotel 140 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 888 982-3688
Colony Hotel 736 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 673-0088
Hotel Astor 956 Washington Ave, Miami Beach 305 531-8081
Hotel Nash 1120 Collins Ave Miami Beach 305 674-7800
Leslie Hotel 1244 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 534-2135
Marlin Hotel 1200 Collins, Miami Beach 305 673-8700 U2 recorded here...
National Hotel 1677 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 305-532-2511
Marriott Courtyard, 3925 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 305-538-3373 Not your father's Marriott....this one's in a great historic property...
Park Central 640 Ocean, Miami Beach 305 538-1611
The Hotel 801 Collins, Miami Beach 305 531-2222 Todd Oldham designed hotel with roof-top pool & Spire Bar. Wish Restaurant & courtyard on first floor.
The Sanctuary Hotel 1745 James Ave, Miami Beach 305 673-5455
The Surfcomber 1717 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 532-7715
HOTELS/MIAMI BEACH/BARGAINS:
Catalina Hotel , Miami BeachCrest Hotel 305 531-0321, 1670 James Ave, Miami Beach - Next door to the Albion and a block from the beach, this hotel is has low rates and the parking lot across the street is cheaper and quicker than dealing with valets
Greenview Hotel 305 531-6588, 1671 Washington Ave - Best Bargain on the beach (Includes pool privileges at their more expensive Albion Hotel just a block away)
Indian Creek Hotel 305 531-2727, 2727 Indian Creek Drive, A smallish deco hotel in a quite neighborhood is nicely restored and just a block from the beach.
HOTELS/MIAMI-CORAL GABLES/MODERATE-EXPENSIVE:
Mandarin Oriental 800-622-0404, 500 Brickell Key Dr Miami
Biltmore Hotel 305 445-1926, 1200 Anastasia, Coral Gables
Colonade Hotel Coral Gables
Hotel Place St Michell 305 444-1666, 162 Alcazar Ave, Coral Gables
If you have even the slightest plans of catching some zzzz"s during your stay, and really, who comes to SoBe to sleep, you can do that at home, but if you must, under no circumstances should you consider staying within a 2-block radius of the uber-noisy bars on Ocean Drive, eg: The Clevelander Hotel et al. Don't be fooled by the facades of those cutesy hotels, the walls are thin.
Hotels, Miami Beach: Pricey
Casa Tua 1700 James Ave, Miami Beach 305 673-1010 Very small exclusive 5 suite boutique hotel catering to your every desire.
Delano 1685 Collins Ave, SoBe 800 555-5001. An Ian Schrager/Phillippe Stark (Morgans Group) collaboration whom are responsible for putting 'Hip' into the hotel industry more than a decade ago. Honestly, what hasn't been written about this place...it is "all that," & more!
EdenRoc Resort & Spa 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 800 327-8337 A great example of architect Morris Lapidus circa 1950's. After a much needed renovation, it has been restored & updated with an excellent spa & services.
Loews Miami Beach 1601Collins Ave, Sobe 305 604-1601 High occupancy hotel with quick valet service and central location, especially to the convention center.
Raleigh Hotel 1775 Collins Ave, Sobe 305 534-6300 Now under new ownership, Andre Balazs Properties the folks who brought you Chateau Marmont, The Standard & The Mercer Hotel. The best pool in Miami Beach for those channeling Esther Williams...
The Setai 2001 Collins Ave, SoBe 305 520-6100 As soon as you enter the lobby, you start to feel the tension leaving your body. From a sip of the Chilli Passion Fruit Martini (their signature) at the long swanky bar to the tranquil sexy candle lit courtyard, it is the epitome of Zen-Chic...but pricey, ouch!
The Ritz Carlton, South Beach 1 Lincoln Rd, Sobe. 800 241-3333 Unlike the others, this one comes with a male model tanning butler, a treat for the ladies. David Bouley Evolution was a recent additon.
The Shore Club 1901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach
The Sagamore Hotel 1671 Collins Ave, Sobe 305 535-8185 Accommodating to movie & still crews...and Diddy's slept here, why shouldn't you?
Hotel Victor 1144 Ocean Drive, Sobe 305 428-1234 This beautifully designed hotel & restaurant gives you a legitimate reason to venture onto the very touristy Ocean Drive. Check out the jellyfish at Vix...ah, so soothing.
The Fountainbleau 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach 305 538-2000 This newly renovated hotel is the Fab 50s at it's kitchy best - famous for the pool scene between Bond and Goldfinger. Vegas in Miami...
HOTELS/MIAMI BEACH/MODERATE:
Albion Hotel 1650 James Ave @ Lincoln Road 305 913-1000
Bentley Hotel and Beach Club 510 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 800 236-8510
Cardoza Hotel 1300 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 535-6500 Gloria & Emilio Estefan's place...once owned by Al Capone...
Casa Grande 834 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 866.420.CASA
Century Hotel 140 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 888 982-3688
Colony Hotel 736 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 673-0088
Hotel Astor 956 Washington Ave, Miami Beach 305 531-8081
Hotel Nash 1120 Collins Ave Miami Beach 305 674-7800
Leslie Hotel 1244 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 534-2135
Marlin Hotel 1200 Collins, Miami Beach 305 673-8700 U2 recorded here...
National Hotel 1677 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 305-532-2511
Marriott Courtyard, 3925 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach 305-538-3373 Not your father's Marriott....this one's in a great historic property...
Park Central 640 Ocean, Miami Beach 305 538-1611
The Hotel 801 Collins, Miami Beach 305 531-2222 Todd Oldham designed hotel with roof-top pool & Spire Bar. Wish Restaurant & courtyard on first floor.
The Sanctuary Hotel 1745 James Ave, Miami Beach 305 673-5455
The Surfcomber 1717 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 532-7715
HOTELS/MIAMI BEACH/BARGAINS:
Catalina Hotel , Miami BeachCrest Hotel 305 531-0321, 1670 James Ave, Miami Beach - Next door to the Albion and a block from the beach, this hotel is has low rates and the parking lot across the street is cheaper and quicker than dealing with valets
Greenview Hotel 305 531-6588, 1671 Washington Ave - Best Bargain on the beach (Includes pool privileges at their more expensive Albion Hotel just a block away)
Indian Creek Hotel 305 531-2727, 2727 Indian Creek Drive, A smallish deco hotel in a quite neighborhood is nicely restored and just a block from the beach.
HOTELS/MIAMI-CORAL GABLES/MODERATE-EXPENSIVE:
Mandarin Oriental 800-622-0404, 500 Brickell Key Dr Miami
Biltmore Hotel 305 445-1926, 1200 Anastasia, Coral Gables
Colonade Hotel Coral Gables
Hotel Place St Michell 305 444-1666, 162 Alcazar Ave, Coral Gables
RESTAURANTS/NIGHTLIFE
Cool, Casual, Local Faves:
Alta Mar 1223 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach (305) 532-3061
Cuisine: Italian, Seafood $
News Cafe - 800 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 538-6397 - Open 24/7. Breakfast @ sunrise is the best. $
Van Dyke Cafe - 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL, 305 534-3600 - On Lincoln Road Mall - Jammed at lunch. $
Big Pink - 157 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 532-4700 Open late but not so early. A favorite among locals, need we say more. $-$$
Balans - 1022 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach 305-534-9191 Great for Breakfast. $
Da Leo Trattoria - 819 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach Fl 305-674-0350 Northern Italian. $-$$
11th Street Diner - Washington Ave & 11th Street, Miami Beach 305 534-6373 burgers and other diner fare. $
Front Porch Cafe @ The Penguin Hotel 1418 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Yummy Brunch. $
Ice Box Café 1657 Michigan Ave Miami Beach (305) 538-8448
Cuisine: Seasonal ingredients, Desserts www.iceboxcafe.com $
Jerry's Famous Deli - 1450 Collins, Miami Beach 305 532-8030. Deli & comfort food. $-$$
Joe Allen - 1787 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach Fl 305-531-7007 Upscale diner
Open From 11am to 11:30pm. $$
Lario's on the Beach - 820 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach - Gloria Estefan's Cuban Restaurant...though we go there for the Mojitos. $$
La Sandwicherie - 229 14th St Miami Beach Fl 305-532-8934 Creative French
sandwich counter serving the freshest gourmet ingredients conveniently wedged between
a gas station and tattoo parlor. Open all night. $
North One 10 11052 Biscayne Blvd.Miami (305) 893-4211
Cuisine: Contemporary American, www.northone10.com $-$
Paninoteca - 809 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach 305-538-0058 "Euro style" panini shop. $
Soyka - 5556 NE 4th Court, Miami 305 759-3117 Giant warehouse loft stylerestaurant on the Miami side by the owner of News Cafe and the Van Dyke. $$
Spris - 731 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach 305-673-2020 the best thin crust pizza. $
Beat the clock special bet 5:30-7:30pm.
Tutto Pasta 1751 SW 3 Ave, Miami 305 857-0709 - excellent Italian food. $
Versailles - 3555 SW 8th Street, Miami 305 444-0240 A "Calle Ocho" experience, excellent, inexpensive Cuban food. The atmosphere is reminiscent of the Versailles Palace...that is if the Versailles Palace was decorated by Elvis. Open 24/7 $-$$
Client Dinners, Wrap Parties, whatever,...worth every penny:
Blue Door at the Delano 1685 Collins Ave Miami Beach (305) 674-6400
Cuisine: French, Brazilian Chic & Trendy $$$$
Blue Sea 1685 Collins Ave Miami Beach at the Delano Hotel
Cuisine: Sushi $
Casa Tua 1700 James Ave Miami Beach (305) 673-1010
Cuisine: Italian www.casatualifestyle.com $
Chef Allen's 19088 NE 29th Ave.Aventura (305) 935-2900 $$$$
Cuisine: Contemporary American, Fusion/Eclectic www.chefallens.com
Escopazzo 1311 Washington Avenue Miami Beach (305) 674-9450 $$$
Cuisine: Italian www.escopazzo.com
Joe's Stone Crab - 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach 305 673-0365. $$$
Only serves Stone Crabs in season from the Oct to May. A must try, at least once.
Mark's South Beach 1120 Collins Ave Miami Beach(305) 604-9050
Cuisine: Contemporary American $-$
Michy's 6927 Biscayne Blvd. Miami (305) 759-2001
Cuisine: French. Reservations a must. $$$
Nobu 1901 Collins Ave Miami Beach (305) 695-3232 $$$-$
Nemo 100 Collins Ave Miami Beach (305) 532-4550 $$$$
Cuisine: Global, International, American
Palme d'Or 1200 Anastasia Ave Coral Gables (305) 913-3200 $$$$
Cuisine: Contemporary French. Best special occasion brunch
Pascal's On Ponce 2611 Ponce de Leon Blvd.Coral Gables (305) 444-2024
Cuisine: Contemporary French, Seafood, Mediterranean $$
Pearl 1 Ocean Drive Miami Beach (305) 538-1111 $$$$
Cuisine: American, Seafood, Fusion/Eclectic
Prime 112 112 Ocean Drive Miami Beach (305) 532-8112
Cuisine: Steak. Great for groups. $$$$
SRA. Martinez 4000 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami 305.573.5474
Sushu Samba Dromo 600 Lincoln Road Miami Beach (305) 673-5337
Cuisine: Japanese, Peruvian, Brazilian www.sushisamba.com $$
Restaurant St. Michel 162 Alcazar Ave.Coral Gables (305) 444-1666 $$$
Cuisine: Contemporary French, Fusion -Eclectic
Tantra Restaurant & Lounge 1445 Pennsylvania Avenue Miami Beach (305) 672-4765
Cuisine: International, Fusion -Eclectic $-$
Tuscan Steak 433 Washington Avenue Miami Beach (305) 534-2233 $$$-$
Cuisine: Steak, Italian
Vix 1144 Ocean Drive Miami Beach (305) 779-8888 $$$$
Cuisine: Global, International
Wish 801 Collins Ave. Miami Beach (305) 674-9474 $$$$
Cuisine: American, Asian
Cool Bars, Clubs, Lounges & Other Places to Get In Trouble:
B.E.D. 1445 Washington Ave, Miami Beach (305) 532-9070
Delano Beach Bar & Rose Bar(indoor) 1685 Collins Ave, Miami Beach (305)672-2000
Cozy & chic.
Mansion 1235 Washington Ave, Miami Beach (305) 532-1525
Mynt 1921 Collins Ave, Miami Beach (786) 276-6132
Prive 136 Collins Ave, Miami Beach (305) 531-5535 A club within Opium Gardens (the common man's version) catering to celebs & those willing to spend money to be treated like celebs. Opium Gardens 305-531-7181. All part of the Opium Group. Asian Inspired
Pearl 305 673-1575 and Nikki Beach Club 305 358-1231 both at 1 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Nikki Beach is a laid-back outdoor bar/restaurant that serves lunch, dinner and a great Sunday brunch and has a cool tiki torch look at night. Pearl is their upscale dinner only restaurant /nightclub /*Champaign bar upstairs...and the surprising thing is that both actually have great food.
Raleigh Hotel Bar 1775 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 534-6300
The best pool in Miami Beach.
The Setai Bar & Courtyard 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 520-6000
Ultra Chic & Romantic...Chilli-Passion Fruit Martini, a must!
Sky Bar 1901 Collins Ave, Miami Beach (305)695-3100. Poolside bar at the Shore Club Hotel
Spire Bar at the The Hotel (Tiffany) 801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach 305 531-5807
Clevelander Hotel - 1020 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 531-3485
Miami's version of the bridge & tunnel crowd, but you'd love it as a first timer
and on the mainland...
Tobacco Road - 626 S. Miami Avenue, Miami - The oldest Blues club in Miami
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