48 Hours in Miami Beach: Day 2

It’s been said that the Miami/South Beach culinary scene is on the brink of a cultural revolution.
One that integrates the burgeoning urban farm phenomenon known as “farm-to-table,” the  authenticity of the city’s Cuban and Haitian cuisine, and the emergence of new cooking styles such as “Floribbean,” and “Nuevo Latin” — techniques that combine signature flavors and ingredients of surrounding countries such as The Caribbean and Mexico. After a 24-hour Miami foodie feat, I would agree.
On my last day in Miami, I found myself enjoying a mixture of beach lounging and the laid back vibes of a couple local restaurants as recommended by the Menin Perks program. Through this program, Menin guests qualify for exclusive savings and complimentary food and beverages at nine of the company’s 15 properties (this includes but is not limited to a complimentary yoga class, cocktails, chips and guacamole, and discounted pizza). Free beach club access with two complimentary lounge chairs and towels is also available.
I first grabbed a quick steak n’ eggs brunch on Collins Ave and hit the waves (more like put my toes in the water and my butt in a lounge chair but who’s judging?) I spent half the day in the 80 degree November sun taking photos of the beach bungalows and building sand castles before setting off to the first stop on my foodie adventure: Bakehouse Brasserie.
A touch of elegant Paris in the heart of South Beach, Bakehouse Brasserie is an up-and-coming French inspired bistro that serves up freshly baked goods, delicate pastries, and traditional Parisian brunch plates such as Croque Madame, Gravlox Benedict, and Escargot Puffs.
In light of it’s French flair, Bakehouse doesn’t forget the rich Cuban heritage and influential southern charm of South Beach, either. It offers up southern inspired dishes such as crawfish beignets, gooey apple-pecan cinnamon rolls, and Florida’s famous key-lime pie.
I grubbed on a Bakehouse special, “Bernie’s Cuban“, which is served up with a side of crisp baby kale with bourbon apricots and goes perfectly with a tall glass of their refreshing “South of Frozé” cocktail with Remy VSOP and fresh berries. It was just strong enough to take the edge off after a long day at the office (or the beach, let’s be honest).
For dessert, I topped off my meal with a heavenly four-inch slice of Key Lime Pie with mountains of pillowy soft meringue – a Sunshine State staple.
With my stomachs half-full with one more stop to go, I called an Uber and made my way to the other side of the city to see what Ricky’s South Beach had to offer.
A 1980’s carnival-themed gamers bar located on 16th Street, (shew that’s a mouthful!) Ricky’s serves up classic and affordable American favorites with a twist! Featuring mouthwatering menu items such as fried Twinkies, cotton candy, and cheesy fries topped with pulled pork, Ricky’s experiences no shortage of crazy handcrafted cocktails, either. In fact, their elixirs are revolutionary and go far beyond what you would find at your average street festival.
I first sipped on the “Nutty Julep” with Maple & Walnet Whislepig Rye, Remy VSOP, oleo, mint, and angostura bitters, and the “It’s Always Sunny” with peach tea Bulleit Bourbon, Giffards Pamplemousse, suze, lemon, and dove honey.

For grub, I sunk my teeth into “
Ricky’s Lollipop Wings” made with spicy guava, BBQ truffle honey, and buffalo blue cheese slathered on tender chunks of white meat. Visitors who order will need napkins – a lot of napkins. But for the full experience, make sure to eat these sans utensils.
For a second course, I chose the “Rise and Shine Slider” with a juicy all beef patty, smashed tater tots, truffle honey, bacon, cheddar, and aioli. I appropriately dubbed this the “brunch burger” because it contained all of the quintessential components of a wonderful breakfast beautifully smashed between two toasted buns.

On the brink of a food coma, I still made room for a plate of “Loaded Fries” with assorted curly and waffle fries generously topped with jalapeño cheese whiz, bacon, fried peppers, scallions, and chili cream. The mixure of waffle and curly fries gave it a fun flair, not to mention made for a beautiful photo.

For a full list of carnivalicious food, beverages, cocktails, bar snacks, and happy hour specials offered at Ricky’s, click here!
Anxious to get back to The Gale to throw on a movie and get in my pajamas, I walked the two miles back to Collins Ave to burn off whatever calories I could at that point. I must admit that I didn’t take advantage of Miami’s nightlife, but only because I had a boat to the Grand Caymans to catch bright and early and wanted to get whatever beauty sleep I could! But hey, there’s always next time.
I caught one last glimpse of the South Florida sun over a glass of wine from the balcony of the hotel suite before turning in.
For a relaxing and all encompassing tropical experience, look no further than Menin Hospitality. Between their lavish hotel properties – also located in Chicago and Ft. Lauderdale – and world class dining establishments, they are sure to have something for everyone.
Book your next trip with Menin today, and be sure to ask about their seasonal and local specials. To read about my first 24 hours in Miami Beach with Menin Hospitality, click here.

15 replies to “48 Hours in Miami Beach: Day 2”

  1. I love how this is written and the pictures are beautiful! Definitely will be referring to your blog next time I am there!

  2. Miami is so much fun! The food, the shopping, the beach, and the culture. I love it all. Looks like you had a great time.

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of traveling, it’s that sometimes less is more — especially when it comes to packing. {ad}

These days, I’ve definitely been utilizing carry on’s rather than checking a bag but, I’m not exactly the lightest packer 🤭 so I’ve had to master the art of maximizing less space.

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𝟓 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐨𝐠𝐚, 𝐓𝐍: 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟑! @visitchatt 

1. @lodgecastiron Museum + @sopitt_bigbadbreakfast. Located in the heart of cast iron’s hometown of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, this museum is a must for those who love cooking, history, food culture, and very large skillets! After the museum, grab brunch at Big Bad Breakfast (the chicken + waffles and cornbread omelet are 😍)
2. @rembrandtscoffeehouse. This cozy European style cafe serves unique coffee drinks and teas, fresh-baked breads, breakfast sandwiches, and beautiful pastries. Try a raspberry vanilla iced brew with an Egg + cheese biscuit sammy ♥️
3. @huntermuseum of American Art. Built in 1905, it became an art museum in 1952. It’s collection spans the history of American art from the colonial period to the present day and includes paintings, sculptures, contemporary studio glass, and crafts. The views of the Tennessee River from here aren’t shabby either!
4. @hellomontyonmain. This chill Southside hang out serves amazing beer, craft cocktails, and shareable plates. Order the Cast Iron Cheese Dip, the Fried Brussel Sprouts, and the Cast Iron Caramel Apple Crisp.
5. @meanmugcoffeehouse. Established in 2011, this quirky, lively coffeehouse boasts reclaimed wood & brick accents and serves unique coffees and light bites. Order a Mean Mug Nitro Cold Brew with Peach cold foam, and an egg + avocado toast! *don’t forget to check out the @kelseymontagueart mural next door for a fun photo opp!*

Are you planning to visit Chattanooga, Tennessee soon? 🇺🇸 {Ad} #hosted
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#VisitChatt #ChattanoogaTN #Chattanooga #tnvacation • Southeast USA • Visit the USA • USA roadtrip • summer road trip •
5 𝙋𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙤𝙜𝙖, 𝙏𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙚: 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙩 2!

If I learned anything during my recent trip to @visitchatt, it’s that there’s so much more to the city than meets the eye. It’s home to some of the most popular attractions in the US, sure, but it also boasts plenty of hidden gems and unique local experiences. Add these 5 locations to your Chattanooga itinerary (you won’t regret it!):

- Tennessee Aquarium @tennesseeaquarium. Home to more than 12,000 animals representing close to 800 species, it features two sections (Ocean and River) and is one of the largest aquariums in the U.S.
- 1885 Grill @1885grillstelmo. This southern coastal restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, high quality steaks, and comforting soul food. Order their wings with Carolina Gold BBQ!
- Rock City Gardens @seerockcity. Located on Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens features a 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail with incredible rock formations, magical caves, native plant species, waterfalls, and a panoramic view of Seven States!
- Massey’s Kitchen @masseyskitchenlookout. This Mediterranean inspired restaurant just opened in June and is Chattanooga’s new hot spot. The food is incredible and their outdoor patio is perfect for dining al fresco. Order the baked feta 🤤
- The Read House Hotel @readhousehotel. This historic jazz era hotel from the 1870’s has hosted famous people including Oprah, Winston Churchill, Walt Disney, and Elvis Presley. It’s even rumored to have a permanent guest — a ghost in room 311!

Keep an eye out for Part 3 and let me know which location you would visit first! 🇺🇸 {ad} #hosted
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#VisitChatt #VisitChattanooga #Chattanoooga #ChattanoogaTN #onlyinTennessee #tennesseeaquarium #tnvacation • southeast U.S. • U.S. road trip • visit the U.S. • United States travel •
If you’re looking for the perfect end of summer U.S. vacation destination, Chattanooga, Tennessee is it. @visitchatt 🇺🇸 

I recently spent a few days exploring this lively town for the first time, and unsurprisingly found so much to love about it. If you’re planning a trip to the U.S. soon — or you live here and want to explore more of your own backyard — you won’t regret putting it on your travel bucket list. 

To help you plan, below are 5 things not to miss when in The Scenic City: 

📍Ruby Falls (@rubyfallscave) Millions of years old but discovered in 1928, it’s the largest underground waterfall in the U.S., and is located more than 1,120 feet under the surface. 
📍Wildflower Tea Shop & Apothecary (@wildflowerteashop) This whimsical vegan-friendly coffee and tea shop stocks a wide variety of loose leaf teas and herbs and other locally made products. I recommend getting the Iced Chocolate Chai with oat milk for a cold treat!
📍Lookout Mountain Incline Railway (@ridetheincline) With a 72.7% grade, it’s one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. The ride is well worth it with stunning views of Lookout Mountain from the top!
📍Frazier Five and Dime (@frazierfiveanddime) Anything you order at this North Shore eatery will be 10/10, but I especially loved the street corn with hot Funyuns and the cheesy cauliflower au gratin 🤤
📍Walnut Street Bridge. With a 1/2-mile span, it’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world and provides amazing view of the riverfront. 

Which location would you visit first? Let me know in the comments below, and stay tuned for parts 2 + 3! 
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#VisitChatt #VisitChattanooga #chattanoogatn #chattanoogatennessee #onlyintennessee (AD) *hosted* • USA Travel • USA Explores • summer travel • visit the USA •
Welcome to one of the most underrated southern cities in the U.S.: @visitchatt! 

While most travelers flock to Music City year after year, just a couple hours drive southeast you’ll find a true gem hidden in the lively city of Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

Here’s some fun facts about the “The Scenic City”:

✧ MoonPies were invented here! These graham cracker marshmallow sandwiches are covered entirely in melted chocolate and are so delicious.

✧ It’s home to the Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railway lines in the world!

✧ Chattanooga boasts one of the largest collections of American art in the country at the Hunter Museum. 

✧ One of the world's longest pedestrian bridges can also be found in Chattanooga.

I’ll be sharing more from my time in @visitchatt, and you can also see what I experienced there by clicking on my Chattanooga highlight badge above.

Have you visited Chattanooga yet? 
📍: Chattanooga Choo Choo 
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#VisitChatt #VisitChattanooga #Chattanooga #chattanoogatennessee | southern cities | summer travel | summer road trips | visit the USA |
PSA: The person who sent you this wants to plan a trip to Cartagena, Colombia 🇨🇴

There are a million reasons why Cartagena deserves a spot on your travel bucket list, but since I can’t list them *all*, here are a few:

𝐀𝐧 𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞:
Cartagena is home to some of the best restaurants in Colombia from high-end eateries and charming cafes, to the finest seafood and unfussy local markets.

𝐕𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐬:
Cartagena boasts vibrant, laid-back neighborhoods with stunning street-art, hip cocktail bars, street performers, food stalls, and rooftop restaurants.

𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬:
Enjoy a beach close to the city or take a boat to the nearby islands (Rosario, Playa Blanca, or Isla Grande). Some resorts even offer private beach experiences such as the Beach Club at @dreamsresorts Karibana Cartagena. 

You can plan your very own Cartagena adventure using @beachbound, an online travel agency that allows travelers to plan every aspect of their luxury beach vacations all in one place. In addition to Cartagena, you can choose from 69 other destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, and the U.S. 

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Cartagena • Colombia travel • Cartagena de Indias • South America • summer vacation •
Food and travel are intertwined. Almost any memorable journey starts (and ends) with a great meal, and my trip to Cartagena was no exception 🇨🇴 

Cartagena has just about any type of cuisine a traveler could want or imagine. From local delicacies to unique international fare, during our stay at @dreamsresorts Karibana Cartagena, we were able to taste foods from all over the world at each of their five on-site restaurants. From the freshest local seafood to freshly baked pastries, it was an amazing experience!

Everything we ate was absolutely delicious, but my favorites are below:

• Fried fish (pescado frito)
• Caramelized banana pancakes
• Torta de Tres leches
• Coconut rice
• Coconut fish soup (sancocho de pescado con coco)
• Colombian style arepas (with quesito Colombiano)
• Guava and cheese pastries (Pastel Gloria)
• Oyster au Gratin
• Seafood risotto with truffle smoke
• Pasta alla Ruota (pasta in a cheese wheel)
• Copoazú ice cream (white chocolate)
• Chicken pasteles
• Colombian empanadas 

Which of these would you try first? 🍲🍤🍮🥥🦪🥭

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