It seems like everyone is in Europe right now on vacation, but what about those of us who can’t squeeze a European trip into their summer plans this year? Don’t fret – Here are some of Miami’s best locations and eateries that encompass your dream European Summer one dine at a time.

  • Wander through Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

  • European-style shopping in Coral Gables

  • Experience your very own Parisian Summer at Le Zoo

  • Your Italian Summer awaits at Mi’Talia

  • Transport to your blissful South-of-France Summer at LPM Restaurant & Bar

  • An escape to St. Tropez at Joia Beach

 

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

If you want a little Italian flare during your trip to Miami, you’ll find it here. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens captures jaw-dropping European extravagance in an enchanting American context. Built by famed industrialist James Deering, the mastermind behind Miami’s historic Deering Estate, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a European-inspired estate located on 10 acres of lush tropical gardens on Biscayne Bay. Appropriately named a National Historic Landmark, Vizcaya was first built in the 1910s, and is exudes an ambiance that combines that Gilded and Jazz ages. Wander through its hardwood hammock, gardens and village, and you’ll be awestruck by the views: flowing fountains, antique statues, calm waters and seemingly endless acres of colorful gardens. It’s easy to spend several hours at Vizcaya without getting bored.

 

The Biltmore Hotel

Experience European luxury at The Biltmore, a Coral Gables, Florida resort. The Biltmore Hotel is a national historic landmark located in the exclusive Coral Gables area near Miami Beach and downtown Miami. The 271-room resort resembles classic Italian, Moorish, and Spanish architectural influences spread over 150-acres of tropical landscape. A favorite of world leaders and celebrities since its opening in 1926. In keeping with traditional European grand hotels, Old World charm permeates the property. Consistent with the architectural style of the affluent homes of Coral Gables, The Biltmore’s design is considered “Mediterranean Revival,” based predominantly on Spanish style with Moorish and Italian accents. Today, the 273 room hotel and resort is known as The Biltmore and is indeed as elegant as the day it opened

 

European-style shopping in Coral Gables

Yet another renaissance is Coral Gables. Infused with a chic European feel, tree-lined streets and Mediterranean architecture, the historic area boasts some cool murals, perfect for that worthy Instagram shot. Traditionally a tranquil shopping and business district, Miracle Mile (www.ShopCoralGables.com) has been transformed into a bustling and romantic shopping, dining and entertainment district. With more than 150 property owners and over 350 merchants including restaurants and wedding boutiques.

 

Le Zoo

Le Zoo, the stylish French brasserie located on the first floor of the Bal Harbour Shops, is known for transporting diners to the sidewalk cafes of Paris combined with the shores of St. Tropez. The menu features an array of signature dishes from Steak and Frites to Fruits de Mer, celebrating the bright and fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. Whether you are relaxing in the picturesque interior salon or dining on the lush palm tree-covered patio, Le Zoo is the perfect European escape.

 

Mi’Talia Kitchen & Bar

Inspired entirely by Chef Jannine Booth & Jeff McInnis travels throughout Europe, Mi’Talia is a neighborhood locale where the husband and wife duo share their passion for cooking Italian flavors. Highlights from the menu include Whipped Ricotta Toast, Mama’s Meatballs, Sunflower Pizza, Spicy Rigatoni Vodka and Veal Chop Milanese.

 

LPM Restaurant & Bar

LPM Miami is a French Riviera-inspired restaurant that brings the authentic flavors and iconic glamour of the Côte d’Azur to the heart of Miami. Guests can enjoy light French Mediterranean fare and the European ambiance while taking in the beautiful artwork lining the dining room walls.

 

Joia Beach

Joia Beach is a day-to-night oasis known for its European-inspired bites, family-style platters and beautiful waterfront views. Chefs Gustavo Vertone and Maximiliano Vertone utilize Mediterranean techniques to provide guests with an elevated dining experience.

 

Le Jardinier Miami

Be transported to the French Riviera at Le Jardinier Miami. The French word for “gardener,” Le Jardinier’s cuisine and setting evoke a modern greenhouse in the heart of the Miami Design District. Michelin-starred Chef Alain Verzeroli’s menu is focused on utilizing the highest quality vegetables, seasonal ingredients, and fresh herbs, fitting seamlessly into the modern, light-filled interiors designed by award-winning Architect Pierre-Yves Rochon. The refined yet approachable cuisine, atmosphere, and service create a holistic hospitality experience for our guests.

 

Versace mansion

Experience an Italian-Mediterranean themed dinner at Gianni’s at the Villa. The Villa Casa Casuarina is the former Versace mansion, and offers the best service, oversized Italian marble bathrooms, a gold-clad pool, a lavish rooftop lounge and private bars. Gianni’s at The Villa offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience in an iconic setting. One of the most famous parts of the house is the pool made of Italian mosaic tiles. The pool was reportedly made in Italy, then broken down into sections and shipped to Miami where it was then rebuilt at Versace’s house. The pool is filled with colorful tiles, including thousands of 24-karat gold tiles.

 

Carbone

One of the hottest spots in Miami is the Michelin-starred Carbone restaurant. The restaurant is beautiful with a retro-style French décor, the plates are hand-painted in Italy, and its location is iconic; Carbone has become a staple in the South Beach neighborhood in such a short time. Founded by Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi, and Jeff Zalaznick, Carbone is one of the most celebrated Italian restaurants of the last decade.