South Beach Dining on a Budget

Because of high tax and gratuity installment, South Beach has been known for its high priced meals and refreshment. Most would argue that you spend a lot of money on cuisine because there's no way around it. But, there are many ways to eat on a budget. Just look around and be open minded. Thats what I did. One thing about Miami, there is always something going on. From album releases, to fashion shows, free club nights for ladies and morning brunches. There's too many things going on for someone to not find a freebie, a discount or just plain, inexpensive food items. From local stores, happenings and events & happy hour still in existance, its hard to spend more than you have to in a city that never sleeps.

1. Every city has a grocery store whether its a small general store or a huge chain. South Beach has two Publix grocery stores that can cater to any hungry visitor. Most Publix marts have deli's where they make wonderful hoagies, pre-cooked meals, and deliscious pastries. Actually, Publix has done an upgrade on its food department recently. South Beach has a Publix for everyone, one for those who dress up to buy food, and those whom are more relaxed and simple. I'd rather be relaxed.

2. I love attending events in Miami. Music festials, weekend celebrations, fashion shows, and more have graced the streets of M-I-A. Some events cost pennies to participate but this year a new event takes hold of the city at no cost to you! This year Nuit Blanche breaks the mold. Nuit Blanche, better known in english as "Sleepless Night, " is an all night cultural festival that the Parisians bought into existance. The word is, many of the participating restaurants are preparing special menus that are sure to keep the pockets heavy. Of course, somewhere amongst the hoopla of the night free appetizers and cocktails will enter the zone. Another thing to look out for, in store discounts and parties. I was invited to at lease two retail store events during my last visit to South Beach. Fun, food and fashion! What a great mix and the promoters lured you with their free cocktail feature which almost always gets you in the place.

3. South Florida has food chains more specific to its cities. Being that i'm such a foodie, most of these places have gone un-noticed. Favorite places to gorge on the city gourmet? Dogma hot dog joint and David's Cuban Cafe. Dogma has a menu where you have the choice of Turkey, beef or veggie dogs, witch can be topped with all sorts of delicious condiments. Spicy suaces, sauteed onions, Athenian style or tropicale flavored. Dogma is very unique and in-expensive to boot. David's Cuban Cafe is like a trade mark to South Beach. Located on Lincoln Road Mall, its a cafe that acts as a diner of Cuban style breakfasts. The potatoes are kickin' and the cafe is strong; and what Cuban establisment can go without serving you a Cuban sandwich?

4. Tip #4, eat locally and dine culturally. I found a small, charming Italian eatery on Washington. Actually, the first thing I saw: a $1 taco's sign in the window. Italian tacos? Its nothing more than Italian style ingrediants like perscutto and feta cheese, to be placed inside a soft shell and grilled to perfection. The Italians are not alon, the Hispanic culture is every where and the food is at its best. My morning's started with freshly squeezed fruit juices from a local tienda. Passion fruit, papaya, grapefruit, orange, and tamarindo juice filled my cups for less than $2. The empanadas are always great for me as well. Since visitng Miami I've fallen in love with spinach and tuna empanadas. I can eat like Popeye, the Hispanic way!

5. Happy Hour. What more can I say? Happy Hour does exist on Ocean Drive and is shockingly affordable. As you walk the strip around 4:30 and 5pm you'll begin to notice signs for buy one get on free, or pitchered drink promotions and drinks for less than 6 bucks a pop! When drink sponsors are around you can almost guarantee a free for all. Happy Hour is nothing to sneeze at and should be taken more seriously because by 6:30, all the fun will be over.

Happy Eating,
Unique