Lincoln Road Mall, South Beach

This outdoor mall lends to the encapsulation of South Beach. I strolled through on my first night in town and at various times thereafter. Locals and tourists alike congregate here at all hours because Lincoln Road Mall offers something for everyone: dining, retail, bars, clubs and galleries. Although I missed them, I found out that farmers and collectibles markets are also held there.

The mall is well-maintained and truly designed for pedestrians, with some areas blocked off to vehicles. Almost every restaurant offers drink or appetizer specials and al fresco dining. For people watchers, there are public seating options. I didn't buy anything but food while exploring Lincoln Road Mall and engaged in my share of window shopping. Some streets adjacent to the mall are worth exploring as well. I did so on foot and discovered more shops and even residential areas with interesting architecture.

Follow on:

Twitter

Pinterest

Facebook

Instagram

Free Crunch Gym Pass

Been slacking all summer? Stop stepping on the scale hoping for a miracle. Check out Crunch's free 3-day pass. Besides weight, what have you got to lose?

Visit: https://www.crunch.com/guest-passes/?d=3

Follow on:

Twitter

Pinterest

Facebook

Instagram

Dream South Beach

Quirky germaphobe searching for a suitable South Beach hotel. That was me until I discovered Dream South Beach, formerly the Palmer House. I spent countless hours reading reviews for other hotels, none of which struck the balance of cleanliness, service, location, safety, and price I sought.

Soon I realized that most Miami accommodations were pricey but expensiveness did not equal quality. Not only was Dream's standard suite comparable to if not cheaper than many of its competitors, the peace of mind and relaxing setup proved priceless.
Attendants remained in the lobby around the clock. Often they remembered my name and asked about my itinerary, gleefully providing suggestions upon request and asking how I enjoyed spots I visited. One employee even offered to snap a picture of me when he noticed me photographing Dream’s exterior.

The staff stayed attentive without stalking. I sensed they would recognize non-guests lurking about. Since I was solo, feeling secure in my surroundings was especially important.

Phone calls and internet service are additional charges, but beach chairs and towels are free. For me, parking was a non-issue because I chose to forgo renting a car. The hotel is in walking distance to the beach and restaurants.

Those who don't mind mingling with the masses can catch the SOBE local one street over for a quarter or splurge on a $5 day pass to explore other parts of town. Also, the Airport Flyer provides cheap and quick service, so there's no need for a cab to and from the location.

This boutique establishment proved tranquil overall. Sounds from other rooms were minimal. However, I could sometimes hear loud employees at the hotel next door. Its kitchen and patio area faced my room. Closing windows significantly muted the noise.

I scoured the suite for cleanliness issues and found one foreign eyelash (even I could live with that). The lighting felt weird at first: subdued blue and white hues throughout, including the shower. Dark, rich wood flooring covered all areas. Luxurious bedding allowed me to sleep comfortably after my first night there. That's a virtual feat when I'm in unfamiliar surroundings.

Upon returning home, I dreamt of duplicating the Dream suite on my turf, especially the bedroom.

Follow on:

Twitter

Pinterest

Facebook

Instagram

La Sandwicherie, Miami

The sandwich shop has seen many incarnations. Even so, La Sandwicherie differentiates itself. Part French cafe; part South Beach sandwich stand; perfect for casual diners; perfect for sophisticated palates. La Sandwicherie offers plenty of healthy indulgence.

I ordered prosciutto on French bread. It contained an array of cool and crisp veggies along with artisanal meat and cheese. Sandwiches come on your choice of bread supplied by a local bakery and are completely customizable as are the salads and smoothies. La Sandwicherie even bottles its own vinaigrette.

I returned another day, opting for salmon on a croissant. That bread was just as delicious but easier to handle and less filling than the bulky baguette. Still, the hefty serving size allowed for leftovers. La Sandwicherie's Miami Sunset smoothie, a refreshing blend of coconut milk, raspberries, orange, papaya and mango topped of my second satisfying meal.

El Titan de Bronze Cigar MFG., Miami

I sought a birthday gift for my dad that he’d enjoy but wouldn’t necessarily buy for himself. Since he had an affinity for cigars and I planned on checking out Little Havana anyway, El Titan de Bronze Cigar Mfg. caught my eye. The shop produces cigars, instead of merely selling them. I knew he’d appreciate the Cuban-style manufacturing, and I wanted to see the factory. One room housed the production area and retail shop. The operation was much smaller than expected.

Earthy scents wafted past me. A group of cheerful cigar rollers sat at tables situated steps away from showcases. They effortlessly created one gem after another. The co-owner, Sandy Cobas, greeted me.  I told her that I caught a bus close to there but still had some walking to do. She allowed me use of the restroom upon request and told me to help myself to cold water in the kitchen. Her warmth extended throughout the ordering process. We chatted a bit about the shop and how I discovered it.

Sandy read the list of my dad’s preferences. She retrieved the Titan Grand Reserve Cameron for me and offered a substitute for the discontinued Belicosco. I told her I wanted to buy him a third type. She then mentioned another cigar they were phasing out and offering at a discount. Sandy thought it would fit my dad’s wish for something small, short and mild. After she packaged my selections, I asked if she was familiar with a restaurant close by. She offered her opinion and suggested I travel by cab then called one for me. My dad enjoyed his cigars; I enjoyed the experience of purchasing them. I still don’t know much about cigars, but I know I’d recommend El Titan de Bronze to any serious aficionado.

Taste Bakery Cafe, Miami Beach

Yelp reviews led me to Taste as an option for breakfast on the go. I arrived via the local bus, which stops right across the street. My tight schedule prevented me from dining in although the atmosphere looked inviting. Inside was clean (including the restroom) and cozy with a variety of seating options. Patio dining was also available. The lemon ginger muffin I wanted was no longer on the menu, but I didn’t leave unsatisfied. While I studied the display case, the staff was helpful and patient. To my surprise, they had a pistachio muffin. This underrated nut is one of my favorites, so I pounce on the opportunity to try dishes featuring it.

If only I'd discovered this delight before I'd plopped down nearly $7 on a mediocre slice of pistachio cake from a publicized SOBE eatery. Taste’s muffin was moist, full of nuts, and a substantial serving size.

Believe me, I contemplated stopping by again on my way to the airport. Fear of missing my flight kept me from doing so. I regret not ordering two muffins and will definitely return should I visit Miami again. Their menu also features salads, wraps, sandwiches and coffee. Taste is an appropriate name for this eatery. The pistachio muffin was the tastiest bite I had in Miami.

Visit http://taste-bakery.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=3
to view the bakery's photo gallery.