We're quite pleased that the weather has taken a turn for the better here in the 305. Last week's miserable rain and constant drizzle made us feel like dogs. And that ain't cute.
But the balmy humidity's back, and so is the steamy heat. Miami could not be more herself right now, so it's time we take full advantage of it. Between delicious food festivals, evening cocktails and local markets, you're bound to find something to do this weekend from Miami's five best eats and drinks.
This Saturday head down to the Grove for a weekend of good rum, good food, good music, and good times. The Great Taste of the Grove is kicking off its annual festival at noon on Saturday and all it takes for you to get in is 10 bucks. You can pay for plates as you get them, and if you find yourself in a food coma, Journey, Neil Diamond, and Billy Joel tribute bands will be there to croon your soul back to the physical world. Kids are welcome for $5 a head, and can hang out in the Kid Zone while you guys have big person fun. Jaguar Ceviche, Timo at the Villa Mayfair, Chart House, and Panorama at the Sonesta are just a handful of restaurants who will be there serving up the goods.
Have a drink in the Grove
Since the Great Taste of the Grove runs from noon to 7p.m., and Saturday night traffic on US1 isn't our cup of tea, stay behind for a drink to wait it out! Between Mr. Moe's, Sandbar, Lulu, The Goose, or Lokal, you're bound to find some place that suits you. That's one of the best parts about the Grove -- it's so small, yet there's something there for everyone. Imagine that concept. Grab a barstool and order a beer or cocktail and just hang until the crowds die down from Taste.
Glaser Organic Farmers Market in Coconut Grove
If neither drinking in the name of traffic nor eating your belly full at a food festival sounds exciting, perhaps a hip farmers market will. Coconut Grove's Organic market offers everything from organic produce to raw honey to prepared foods and spices. While perusing the tents, you'll probably feel that your gaudy jewelry wasn't all that necessary for the occasion, but, in the spirit of diversity and being open-minded to new things, no one there will judge you. Don't forget to bring cash to make your purchases a little easier.
We knew the British were onto something when they started all that afternoon tea time. So in recognition of such a genius idea, and in celebration of our recent beautiful weather, afternoon Spring Tea Time at Fairchild Gardens is something you can enjoy this Sunday. Tea service will begin promptly at 3p.m. on the veranda and in the ballroom along with Rob Friedman on guitar. If you're a member of Fairchild, you can enjoy a delicately prepared full-service tea time for $27. Non-members pay $37, and children 12 and under are $17.
One of our favorite markets in Miami, Pinecrest Gardens offers produce, flowers, fresh juices, baked goods, and freshly prepared hot foods amongst so much more. Have a go at a brick oven pizza or rack of ribs while you're there. Or maybe a crepe or fresh popcorn. Pick out veggies for this week's lunch and a fruit you've never seen before. Graze the flavored salts and exotic teas and figure out if you can use just one ingredient that you find to jazz up a meal you frequent.
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