Art World Figures Share Their Go-To Miami Spots
Interior view of the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Surfside, Florida. Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel.
December in the art world means one thing: Miami. More than 10 art fairs will be taking place across a jam-packed week of events, which seems to get busier every year. For the benefit of those visiting the city next week, Artsy spoke to six art world figures and Miami regulars, to get the lowdown on what to eat, drink, and see during your visit.
Jorge M. Pérez
Businessman and founder of El Espacio 23
Exterior view of the Peréz Art Museum Miami. Photo by Robin Hill. Courtesy of the Peréz Art Museum Miami.
Miami truly comes alive during Art Week. The energy is magnetic, attracting artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from every corner of the world.
In addition to visiting our great art institution, the Peréz Art Museum Miami (PAMM), Allapattah should be at the top of everybody’s list. The neighborhood is now home to several long-time gems such as Spinello Projects, Mindy Solomon Gallery, and the Rubell Museum, as well as exciting newcomers like KDR, Galería La Cometa, and Marquez Art Projects. And, of course, I would be remiss to not recommend visiting El Espacio 23, where we recently debuted our fourth exhibition, “To Weave the Sky: Textile Abstractions from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection,” with over 140 pieces by talented intergenerational artists like Lee Krasner, Olga de Amara, and Igshaan Adams, many of which have never been publicly exhibited before. Visitors are in for an unforgettable experience.
When it comes to where to eat, Hometown Barbecue in Allapattah holds a special place for my family; it’s our go-to spot for a satisfying lunch. Another favorite is Casa Roma, a charming family-owned establishment that makes the most incredible pizzas. And for the quintessential rest stop between art fairs, you can never go wrong with the timeless South Beach classic, Joe’s Stone Crab.
Kristin Hjellegjerde
Founder of Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery
Exterior view of Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery, West Palm Beach, 2023. Courtesy of Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery.
We are so excited for the first season of our new gallery in West Palm Beach.
Ahead of Miami Art Week there will be a gallery weekend in Palm Beach, with events at the galleries plus the yearly season opening of the Bunker Museum. On December 9, we will keep the spirit going with a party opening for Nengi Omuku.
In Palm Beach, we enjoy staying at the Brazilian Court and spending time at Cafe Boulud. During the day, it’s wonderful to hang out at the Norton Museum and the restaurant in the garden is fantastic. If you can’t find a reservation anywhere for dinner in Palm Beach, go to The Breakers Hotel and hang out at the Seafood Bar, as they don’t take reservations so you might be lucky there. I also love dinner at The Colony Hotel and Imoto at Buccan on Palm Beach. You’ll find the best baristas at Composition Coffee next to our gallery on Florida Avenue. We are there every day…multiple times.
Dennis Scholl
Film producer and collector
Just a three-block walk from the Art Basel in Miami Beach is Oolite Arts, which has free studios for artists and an exhibition entitled “Bounce,” curated by Storm Ascher (of Superposition). The show is dazzling and includes works by Miami’s beloved photographer, Roscoè B. Thické III.
I just had an amazing meal at Tam Tam, a nontraditional Vietnamese restaurant in downtown Miami. The chicken wings are life-changing!
It is hard to overstate the quality of art at Art Basel in Miami Beach. I go every day, as booths do get reinstalled a lot. I just do lap after lap in the fair, making sure to walk each aisle both ways so I don’t miss a thing. It’s art overload in the best way.
If the fair makes you cry out for a quiet, sublime meal, head to Stubborn Seed, where chef Jeremy Ford composes dishes that look as good as anything at the fair. Try the truffle bravas!
Sophia Cohen
Collector
Interior view of the Matador Room at the EDITION, Miami Beach. Courtesy of EDITION Hotels.
I have a love-hate relationship with the city of Miami, but it always pleasantly surprises me with each new visit. Upon arrival in the A.M., I immediately go to Pura Vida, which may seem basic but it’s always on point for coffee, breakfast, or lunch. If I’m feeling like taking a little drive I love Panther Coffee as well…it gets the day going!
For dinner, upstairs Casa Tua always has a great energy but I also can’t forget my number one old school spot, Joe’s Stone Crab—always amazing. The hotel bars are usually my go-to: the Faena has a nice cozy living room situation, and the 1 Hotel or the Edition are great for people-watching. Cipriani and Socialista is always a nice way to go out without properly going to a club, but alas, it’s Miami, and the night is always young!
Sarah Arison
President of the Arison Arts Foundation
Interior view of the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Surfside, Florida. Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel.
For the moment when you really need a break from the craziness, head up to Surfside to the Four Seasons and relax and have a drink in The Champagne Bar. I think it’s the most beautiful room in Miami, and is the perfect spot for some much-needed downtime!
Milena Brown
Managing director, Manolis Projects
As the managing director of Manolis Projects Gallery, I’m thrilled to welcome you to Miami, a city that has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past three years. The art scene here has not only grown but has evolved into something truly extraordinary. Miami has seen an influx of people from various cities, infusing our culturally rich city with a modern and sophisticated vibe.
I highly recommend exploring the vibrant art galleries scattered throughout Miami. They offer a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic artistic expressions that define our city. Additionally, the arrival of renowned New York restaurants like Pastis and Cote has added an exciting culinary dimension to our culture.
For those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of Miami Art Week, consider a visit to La Fresa Francesa, an intimate bistro with a bohemian ambiance, serving gourmet French classics and cocktails. It’s a local gem tucked away from the busy traffic, providing a welcome escape.
Lastly, don’t rush to commit to everything on your agenda during your visit. Miami Art Week offers an abundance of events, but it’s essential to savor each one fully. Leave some time open for spontaneity and immerse yourself in the unique art and culture that Miami has to offer. Enjoy your stay!
