After living in Miami for over four years, you might think that you know it all; but after going on this food tour, I realized I still have a lot to learn. Taking in the history and essence of Miami whilst eating an eclectic mix of foods was an eye-opening experience that made me fall even more in love with this city.
South Beach can be a bit overwhelming to visitors, but the friendly face of a warm and welcoming tour guide can quickly put them at ease. Everyone was directed to 660 The Anglers where the tour began with a light tasting of Andalusian gazpacho. Even after living in Spain for a year, I am not a huge gazpacho fan; however, out of all of the versions I have tried, this was the best. Lani broke the ice amongst the group and set a fun and easygoing tone for the afternoon.
Bolivar restaurant was a great first spot to sit down and have a lot of food! It was all delicious (including the drink) and the green sauce was very spicy, which I love. The service was especially friendly and I left wanting to try a real meal there sometime. I’ve always wanted to go to Tudor House so getting a tiny taste of the food Chef Zakarian is cooking up was a real treat to a foodie like me. The staff there was also very attentive making for a nice experience. David’s Cafe is a must in Miami so I think coffee there is perfect. The empanadas from Charlotte Bakery (one place I try to regular) were great and the gelato from Milani was a nice ending, especially since Espanola Way is always a hit with visitors.
The molecular gastronomy at Miami Beach Cafe was unique for people to see and they seemed to enjoy the nitro ice cream demo. The bites themselves were small and it was a bit awkward to stand around but the crowd did not seemed too bothered. Jerry’s Deli was cool but the rugelach was probably my least favorite tasting of the trip.
Overall, I think the tour had the perfect amount of food. I ate everything I was given at each stop and left very full. The script Lani recited was very informational yet not overwhelmingly so. I learned so much in such a short time. I think covering Ocean Drive and Espanola Way are good ideas, one addition could be to spend less time on Ocean Drive and include Lincoln Beach in the mix, but everything covered and all the buildings highlighted was very good so it might be hard to add even more!
I’m glad I got to experience a tour firsthand and as a guide, would make sure each visitor has as great as a time as I did!
By Cassie Glenn
