Historic shopping districts and a nostalgic urban-tropical vibe define Miami’s Upper East Side neighborhood. Come for the architecture, and stay for the cuisine – you’ll love the mix of restaurants offering Italian, Mediterranean, Vietnamese and casual comfort food.
Short for “Miami Modern,” the MiMo style of architecture that is popular around Miami’s Upper East Side thrived after World War II and became part of Miami’s architectural boom. A departure from the 1920s Mediterranean Revival and the 1930s Art Deco styles, MiMo articulated a general sense of national optimism. It also captured the era’s love affair with futurism, the cult of the automobile and all things kitsch.
A 27-block district between 50th and 77th streets on Biscayne Boulevard is experiencing its own revival as forgotten architectural gems have been restored to their former glory. The area has forged a new identity as the eclectic MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District. The rejuvenated strip features charming boutiques, consignment stores and trendy eateries, all housed inside restored retro-styled structures.
The crown jewel of Upper East Side’s MiMo style is the Vagabond Hotel, a white-and-teal paradise loved for its popular Mediterranean restaurant as well as its pool bar (fruity cocktail, anyone?). Live music, DJ parties and movie screenings make the hotel’s pool area a hip hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Miami Ironside is another Upper East Side creative district made of more than 70 showrooms plus cafes, studios, furniture shops and independent retailers galore. Walk along outdoor paths lined with stunning rainbow eucalyptus trees. The mixed-use area’s glass storefronts are accented by trendy event spaces and vibrant public plazas peppered with colorful art features.
