Between reduced capacity policies and curfews, outdoor dining may be one of the only aspects of normalcy we have remaining in 2020. It’s a safe way to get out of the house, reconnect with friends and indulge our taste buds. Thanks to Miami’s year-round heat, we can enjoy these beautiful restaurants during any season.
ASTRA | WYNWOOD
NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127
If you are looking for somewhere to be seen, Astra is the place to be. This Mediterranean restaurant is an international hotspot with a boujee ambiance and breathtaking views. From giant bottles of champagne to edgy artwork by Punk Me Tender to groups of well-dressed individuals, Astra is here to host a good time. The rooftop bar offers large seating areas, lush greenery and a pink staircase perfect for snapping your next Instagram post. It’s a great place to end the week with drinks and take in a Miami sunset with a group of friends.
IRONSIDE PIZZA | LITTLE HAITI
7580 NE 4th Ct, Miami, FL 33138
Tucked away in Little Haiti, Ironside Pizza provides seating in a rustic, outdoor courtyard as well as a charming indoor seating area. Its open-air outdoor dining is casual yet sophisticated, made up of wooden tables and other mismatched furniture.Known for their authentic pizza, their pies are made with Caputo flour from Napoli as well as ingredients from their garden, making for the most fresh and delicious pizzas in Miami. They allow you to BYOB, so bring a bottle of your favorite wine to enjoy with your cheesy delight. Hit up this off-the-beaten-path oasis to indulge in a night of Italian dining and great company.
CASA FLORIDA | LITTLE HAVANA
437 SW 2nd St, Miami, FL 33130
Perfect for Instagram and a bottomless brunch with friends, Casa Florida is truly a flashy Floridian’s paradise. It’s a tropical 80s-inspired playground complete with a converted GM 1965 bus, custom ping-pong table, mixology bar and DJ booth. While they do offer food, cocktails are the way to go. Think pink, flamingos, palm trees and Florida-themed cocktails like “Collins Ave” and “Alligator Alley.” Whether it’s the Florida-themed cocktails, vibrant prints or laid-back environment, Casa Florida offers a unique dining experience for all.
PLANTA | SOUTH BEACH
850 Commerce St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
PLANTA prides themselves in creating food that is both innovative and environmentally sustainable without the use of animal products. Its quaint outdoor patio is covered with greenery and candles for a sense of tranquility. You can easily hear what the people in your party are saying as you indulge in an upscale meal and maybe even sip on a fresh kombucha mojito. From ahi watermelon that constitutes as “spicy tuna” to truffle burgers, some might not even realize that all of the food is plant-based.
MANDOLIN AEGEAN BISTRO | DESIGN DISTRICT
4312 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137
Just outside the busy center of Miami’s Design District stands a blue painted gate that leads to a gorgeous garden housing Mandolin Aegean Bistro. With falling trees, bright lights, long wooden tables and hints of nautical blue and white, the 1940s-converted bungalow offers an escape to the Greek Islands or perhaps the Turkish coast. Take a break from the vibrant and loud city of Miami and escape to a getaway accompanied by a glass of Mandolin’s refreshing cocktail karpouzi fresco made with watermelon, mint and Prosecco. The charming outdoor ambiance and marvelous food make for a perfect night out or even just an excuse to drink a glass of wine at 3 p.m.
words_ & design_lauren mokhtarzadeh. photo_sydney burnett.
This article was published in Distraction’s winter 2020 print issue.
