By: Alisha Leben
With its collection of excellent restaurants, retail options and fun-in-the-sun activities, Surfside is well worth exploring. This neighborhood offers more than just spectacular beaches and views – it’s a place that’s built on community spirit. Here’s a list of fun things to do, places to eat and great shopping locations.
Top Things To Do
Surfside Beach
Nestled between Miami Beach and Bal Harbour, Surfside's white sandy beach is a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Pack a beach picnic, a blanket and umbrella and head out for a sandy, sunny day. Tip: public lots offer parking with pay station kiosks, and you’ll also find metered parking at several locations.
Surfside Farmers Market
One of Greater Miami & Miami Beach's popular places is the Surfside Farmers Market, where visitors can shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, clothing and jewelry. Vendors offer food options if you’re hungry. The farmers market is located on Collins Avenue, and is open Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bonus: There’s usually live music on the last Sunday of each month.
Where To Eat
Mendel’s Backyard BBQ & Brew
Meat-lovers, rejoice! Mendel’s Backyard BBQ & Brew is a kosher restaurant that is known as one of the top smokehouses in Greater Miami & Miami Beach. Stop in for some slow-smoked brisket (a house specialty), Mendel’s “world-famous” burnt ends, and Backyard BBQ’s daily specials, which include creative offerings such as veal ribs, smoked marrow, smoked duck and more.
Cafe Vert
Cafe Vert is a feel-good kosher breakfast-and-lunch cafe offering a delicious French breakfast that includes cafe latte, a variety of croissants and freshly squeezed orange juice. You’ll also find a good selection of savory crepes on the menu, along with paninis and traditional entrees. Note: The cafe is closed on Saturdays and has limited hours on Sundays.
The Greek Place
When it’s time for lunch or dinner, Surfside’s seaside setting may have you yearning for a taste of the Greek Isles. Never fear: The Greek Place serves up authentic gyros, grilled kabobs, falafel, a variety of fresh salads and much more from its extensive menu.
Josh's Deli
Greater Miami & Miami Beach has many wonderful delis, and Josh’s Deli is high on that list. It’s simple fare like hearty hand-cut pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup and, if you’re feeling adventurous, even a deli melt tongue frita burger. If you’re an early bird, the breakfast offerings are plentiful. Try the lox and onion scramble, pumpkin cheesecake French toast, or latkes served with sour cream and apples.
Rolling-Pin Kosher Pareve Bakery
This small kosher bakery is a neighborhood favorite. It makes wonderful challah bread and rugelah cookies. Tip: Rolling Pin is open Monday through Friday only.
Sushi Republic
Looking for authentic Japanese food? You’ll find it in the heart of Surfside at Sushi Republic. Open for lunch and dinner, this eatery offers a variety of sushi and sashimi options, “lunch boxes,” as well as teriyaki and tempura entrees at dinner.
Places To Shop
Mare Boutique
Looking for that boho feel? Check out Mare Boutique in the heart of Surfside for bohemian-style clothing, accessories, sandals, home goods and gifts.
Hair & Skin Care
Alexia + Frankie's Beauty Bar
Need a little beauty pick-me-up while you're on vacation? This hidden gem is a one-stop-shop for pampering and relaxation at its finest. At Alexia + Frankie's Beauty Bar, guests can enjoy a manicure, pedicure, hair styling and much more.
LAHH Salon
With a passion for healthy hair care, this Aveda-concept salon is famous for attentiveness to its customers, focus on the integrity of products used, and trend-setting stylists. LAHH Salon's work has been featured on local news channels and top fashion magazines.
Carousel Barbershop
If date night is approaching, Carousel Barbershop is a great place for a fresh haircut with a hot-towel shave.