Española Way on Miami's South Beach is self-contained area for dining, entertainment
As part of my "Summer Bucket List" for #TCPalmSocial, I wantd to explore areas that were within an easy driving distance from the Treasure Coast. Earlier in the month, I traveled with my family to Miami to see the newly renovated Española Way.
The picturesque, European-inspired area is located on Miami’s South Beach, between 14th and 16th streets, and stretches from Washington to Drexel avenues. When we arrived, we were immediately impressed with the quaint and rustic ambiance that the street exudes.
While we were there, we learned that in May, The City of Miami Beach completed a $2.5 million revitalization project on the pedestrian-only street. Now, Española Way is experiencing a renaissance, living out the intentions of those who built it almost a century ago.
We stayed at the El Paseo Hotel, which is a boutique property that recently reopened after a $7 million renovation.
The Spanish-French-style hotel is budget friendly and has 71 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each with colorful and eclectic décor. All of the amenities were an unexpected surprise, including the inviting common area living room, street-front balcony, complimentary coffee served 24 hours a day and the complimentary cocktail hour (6 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday).
The hotel also started a new program to loan guests Spectacles sunglasses, with an integrated video camera, which connects directly to Snapchat via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and transfer memories onto the user’s app. For more information on El Paseo Hotel call 305-400-0767 or go to www.elpaseohotel.com.
You don't even have to leave the street because there are plenty of dining options, some al fresco at café-style tables outside or at cozy booths indoors. There are more than 15 eateries, and we enjoyed five of them.
Here are some of my suggestions: try the authentic Cuban breakfast at Havana 1957, the Pappardelle ar fungo porcino at lively Italian restaurant Hosteria Romana or the Osso Buco on the coal-fired oven from another charming nevue Mercato della Pescheria. Save some time to see a live Flamenco show at Tapas & Tintos and savor gelato at Milani Gelateria.
To justify the amazing food you consume, rent a bike from Citi Bike, which has stations nearby, and cruise the boardwalk just two blocks away. I rode for several miles one morning and enjoyed watching the sunrise on the beach.
El Paseo Hotel also has a "Beach Club," where you can enjoy your time in a cabana or lounge chair, which is perfect after a walk on the beach.
I am so glad that we found this hidden gem so close to home, and I look forward to our adventure.
Happy Friday!
Jennifer M. Trefelner writes about St. Lucie County for #TCPalmSocial. Email her at [email protected].
