Q: Can you give me some tips about Sunny Isles Beach in South Florida?
A:. Located midway between downtown Miami and Fort Lauderdale, with easy access to business centers, Sunny Isles also includes entertainment, sports and recreational facilities, and tourist attractions. Residents and visitors can fly into either Miami International or Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International airports, or cruise into the Port of Miami or Port Everglades and be in Sunny Isles Beach within 20 to 30 minutes.
Almost one million vacationers
visit Sunny Isles Beach annually to enjoy the two and a half mile-long
fine sand beach and outdoor amenities such as water sports, boating,
fishing, and tennis as well as the abundant shopping, dining and
entertainment options nearby. The landmark fishing pier is a local
favorite while the beautiful Samson Oceanfront Park provides a
children’s play area and space to relax; meet friends and enjoy the
sunrise. The city is experiencing a major redevelopment renaissance on
the east side of Collins Avenue, the main thoroughfare. Zoning laws
ensure that view corridors and beach access pathways will always offer
residents a life with a view. To the west of Collins Avenue, the city
is building parks, improving the infrastructure and laying the
groundwork for future redevelopment.
The
emphasis of most of the redevelopment is on residential condominium
construction. The city is steadily replacing outdated motels with
luxury residential oceanfront development. Much of the residential
construction is not for year-round occupancy, however the statistics
show a steady growth in young families who desire to be near the ocean.
WHERE TO STAY:
With panoramic vistas of the sea and Miami’s glittering skyline, Acqualina (www.acqualina.com),
a Rosewood Resort, is a grand 51-story Mediterranean-inspired tower
featuring a 97-room ultra-luxury boutique resort and 188 lavish
residences. Guests of Acqualina enjoy world-class services and
amenities, including three restaurants- famed Il Mulino, Aaria and
Costa Grill - a two-story oceanfront ESPA, three swimming pools,
tropical garden areas and a private beach club. My family and I had the
opportunity to spend the day recently at this gorgeous two year old
facility. When we arrived a pool attendant prepared three comfortable
deck chairs for us right by a nice cabana and at the entry of a
zero-depth pool ideal for young children. The water was warm as a bath.
Staff frequently came by to take drink, lunch and snack orders. At the
two other pools, warm Jacuzzis await. I felt like I was on a plush
Carribean island.
DINING OUT:
Look no further than the Acqualina where the acclaimed Italian restaurant Il Mulino New York (www.ilmulinonewyork.com) has become a favorite spot. Renowned for its bustling and energetic atmosphere, market fresh daily specials, extensive selection of fine Italian wines and an impeccably polished wait staff, this is one of 12 Il Mulino locations. It has already become a much sought-after establishment, frequented by both locals and visitors in the know.
The
110-seat indoor Miami restaurant spreads onto a 24-seat veranda
overlooking the ocean. Service here is absolutely spectacular.
Experienced Maitre ‘D Sergio was at the original Il Mulino locale for
six years. He eventually moved to South Florida to work for another
restaurant. When Il Mulino opened in Sunny Isles he got the call. The
tuxedo-class servers also include the likes of Gino and Eric. In recent
months the likes of John Travolta, George Hamilton and Robert Redford
have been among the dining guests
The menu draws upon the rustic and hearty Abruzzi region in Italy with complimentary antipasto tastings of soppresatta, bruschetta, reggiano parmesan, fried zucchini and garlic/cheese bread sticks, and dishes like spaghettini Bolognese, rack of lamb, scampi oreganta, veal picata and langoustines, with old-world service and tableside cooking provided by the staff. The wine list includes over 200 selections of Italian varieties and guests are offered a complimentary glass of signature house Grappa prepared by Sergio himself. Oh yes, to watch Sergio prepare a fruit plate at the table is like witnessing an artist at the peak of his career. Also on the dessert menu, the flowerless chocolate cake and the tiramisu are to die for.
Il
Mulino New York is open six days a week for dinner: Monday – Thursday
from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. ad Friday and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to
11:30 p.m. The address is 17780 Collins Avenue. Make sure to make a
reservation by calling 305-466-9191.
