While everyone seems to be enjoying European vacations this summer, what about those of us who can’t make it across the pond? Don’t worry, Miami has you covered! From stunning architecture and lush gardens to charming cafes and vibrant nightlife, the city offers a plethora of experiences that will transport you to Europe without ever leaving the sunshine state.

  • 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 Casadonna

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

  • An escape to St. Tropez at Joia Beach

 

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Step into a world of Italian-inspired extravagance at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This enchanting estate, built by famed industrialist James Deering, captures the essence of European opulence in a captivating American setting. 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. Wander through the hardwood hammock, gardens, and village, marveling at the flowing fountains, antique statues, and serene waters. Vizcaya is a National Historic Landmark and a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of European grandeur in Miami.

 

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

 

Explore European-Inspired Charm and 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.

 

Taste Europe: Discover Miami’s Hidden Culinary Gems

Petralunga

Nestled in the heart of Miami, Petralunga stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, offering a unique fusion of Contemporary Pizza Gourmet, Mediterranean cuisine, and expert Mixology. This Italian brand, founded by passionate restaurateurs, has finally found its home in Miami, bringing with it the charm and flavors of the Old World with a modern twist. Imagine savoring super thin, crunchy Roman-style pizzas meticulously crafted with the finest and purest ingredients. The restaurant’s ambiance is a delightful blend of elegance, lightness, and playfulness, complemented by a panoramic view of the Bay and the charming marina of North Bay Village. Petralunga’s commitment to creating an all-encompassing experience is evident in their marriage of Gourmet Pizza with Mixology Cocktails and a carefully curated wine list. To add to the allure, Petralunga provides free parking for both cars and boats up to 45 feet, ensuring that your journey to this hidden gem is as seamless as the dining experience itself. Location: 7601 E Treasure Dr Unit Cu-21, North Bay Village, FL 33141

 

Casadonna

Casadonna embodies the Italian allure in the heart of Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, nestled alongside Biscayne Bay. With expansive al fresco dining areas and bar seating offering waterfront views spanning the bay-facing terrace, Casadonna transports guests to Italy itself. Developed through a collaboration between Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality, this coastal Italian-inspired restaurant curates a menu showcasing the freshest local and imported-from-Italy ingredients, with signature handcrafted dishes. Plates are based on traditional recipes found in the Coastal towns of Naples, Taormina, Bari, Positano, and Gaeta, and each is presented in a contemporary fashion. Diners can also indulge in a variety of offerings, including a comprehensive crudo bar, bespoke cocktails, and spritzes, and an extensively curated wine cellar to complete the spirit of seaside dolce vita. At Casadonna, guests can now dock and dine, from day to night, with any size vessel. To reserve a slip and arrive by boat, please contact Casadonna’s dock master at 786-869-0158 or [email protected].

 

Sofia Miami

At Sofia Miami, guests can savor the finest quality sourced ingredients prepared with love in a chic atmosphere. Serving both new and nostalgic Italian dishes, Sofia is the ideal hotspot to transport diners straight to Italy. From antipasti dishes like prosciutto and burrata to plates such as cavatelli alla bolognese and cacio e pepe al tartufo, Sofia brings the essence of Italy to Miami’s Deisgn District. Guests can immerse themselves in a glamorous setting surrounded by pink furniture, glass chandeliers, captivating artwork, an expansive bar, and live entertainment that will leave them wanting more.

 

Byblos

Known for its renowned Mediterranean cuisine with influences from both traditional and local ingredients, Byblos takes a twist on a coastal and cultural mosaic. From classic techniques and modern methods, the dishes showcase specific spices and flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean seaboard. Guests can indulge in the hummus royale, wood-fired pide, Middle Eastern fried chicken, vine-ripened tomato salad, black truffle rice, and so much more. Byblos is not just a culinary destination; it’s a summer must-have where guests can transport themselves to the Middle East and enjoy  Mediterranean cuisine amidst a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Mirabella

Mirabella, located in the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach, offers exceptional coastal Italian cuisine crafted by acclaimed Chef Michael White. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors is evident in its diverse menu, featuring the finest ingredients from both land and sea, reminiscent of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Guests are transported to Italy with its beautiful ocean-view terrace, enhancing the dining experience with stunning Miami views and an ambiance that captures the charm of Mediterranean coastal towns. Guests can enjoy brunch and dinner with a great selection of dishes and hand-crafted cocktails, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

 

Avra Estiatorio Miami

Guests can transport to the whitewashed islands of Greece at Avra Estiatorio Miami, the acclaimed Greek restaurant at the glamorous Acqualina Resort & Residences. The wildly popular oceanfront estiatorio is best known for a menu that focuses on Mediterranean-sourced seafood and traditional platter-style entrées made with imported ingredients. Picking your seafood from the ice display that features in-season catch is a signature part of the AVRA experience. The wine program at AVRA is as impressive as the food with a list that includes more than 1,200 varieties and spans the globe. Greek spirits are part of the mix with ouzos and mastichas, and the cocktails are creative and a nod to Greece.

 

Yann Couvreur Cafe

Internationally renowned Chef Yann Couvreur Cafe introduces the essence of French ‘art de vivre’ to the bustling Wynwood neighborhood with his flagship stateside restaurant, Yann Couvreur Café. With a menu that goes beyond pastries by introducing daytime dining, guests can rely on the café as their premier destination for à la carte brunch-focused offerings throughout the entire week. Each dish is luxurious yet approachable and showcases the finest seasonal and local ingredients. Spanning 2,500 square feet, this restaurant-café reimagines traditional French aesthetics while embracing Miami’s vibrant spirit offering spacious indoor and outdoor seating daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Miami offers a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Europe without leaving the United States. From grand estates and historic hotels to charming cafes and vibrant shopping districts, the city provides a wealth of options for crafting your own European staycation. So, pack your bags, embrace the European spirit, and discover the hidden gems of Miami that await you.