What to Do in Miami This Week [Dec 18-24]

Welcome to our weekly roundup of the top events in Miami! Stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in the Magic City with our curated selection of the best restaurants and places to see and be seen.

Looking for more? Check out the newest restaurants in Miami and the food and drink specials this month.

Wednesday, Dec 20: New Menu Tasting at Casa Isola

Casa Isola, the Miami Beach gem for casual and innovative Italian food, has recently unveiled its new menu, and boy is it enticing. While the much-cherished Isola classics have been left on the menu (don’t worry, the spicy rigatoni alla vodka isn’t firmly established), Chef Jose Mendin has really outdone himself with new sumptuous dishes inspired by Pubbelly Noodle Bar.

Join us as we make our way through the menu, ordering everything from the creamy udon carbonara with fatty pork belly and gnocchi di patatei with a savory kimchee bolognese and shiso ricotta to bucatini amatriciana with the lovely addition of gochujang. Chef truly came through with this one, and we can’t wait to be spotted here nearly every day of the week slurping down some delicious noods. 

Friday, Dec 22: Patron Pop-up Bar at at Bodega Taqueria y Tequila 

The sleigh bells are jingling, and the tequila is pouring at Bodega Taqueria y Tequila. The holiday spirit is nice and loud at this city-favorite Mexican joint, where Patron Tequila has set up its annual Holiday Patron Bar. Step into the festively decorated venue with sleighbells, tinsel, and mistletoe decking the halls while Christmasy tequila-based cocktails are being stirred. 

Santa said it’s okay to be a little naughty as long as Patron’s festive drinks are involved, like tequila-based cranberry margaritas, vodka-based cranberry mules, or decadent chocolate cherry carajillos with Patron blanco. Grab a cocktail-filled ornament off the Christmas tree and let the celebration begin. Oh, and it only gets better—Bodega will be partnering with local non-profit organizations to donate toys during the holidays. Every guest who brings a toy for donation will get one holiday-themed cocktail on the house. The pop-up bar will be live at all Bodega Taqueria y Tequila locations (except for Aventura) until the day after Christmas. See you there!

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila has multiple locations. For more information, head to their official website.

Saturday, Dec 23: A Quintessentially British Afternoon Tea Experience at Balan’s

Suppose you haven’t had a chance to make it to Balan’s yet for their British afternoon tea — no worries! The event will also be held on Saturday, December 23. Step into the winter wonderland that is Balan’s as they bring the best of London’s traditions right to Miami: A quintessentially British Afternoon Tea experience. 

With a backdrop of pine garlands, frosty pinecones, and festive lights, enjoy a cozy afternoon of tea and snacks. Relish in gingerbread macaroons, buttery English scones, and refreshing cucumber and salmon finger sandwiches. The tea party will happen from 2 to 5 p.m. and is priced at $65 per person, including a welcoming glass of bubbly. The elegant affair promises to be small and intimate so we encourage making your reservations beforehand. 

Balan’s Brickell is located at 901 S Miami Ave Suite 108, Miami, FL 33130. For more information, visit their official website.

Sunday, Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dinner at Toscana Divino

If you’ve yet to finalize your Christmas Eve plans, join us at Toscana Divino this Sunday, December 24. In the best traditions of an Italian holly night, Toscana Divino, Miami’s beloved Tuscan restaurant, is setting the table with specialties from the motherland. 

Diners can choose to order a la carte or indulge in the tasting menu, priced at $115 per person. On the festive menu, find x-mas tagliere loaded with Italian delicatessen, focaccia, dried fruits, and nuts. The meal will include a cozy farm-vegetable zuppetta, black truffle tortellini, a succulent prime rib roast, and traditional Italian panettone for dessert. You can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere with Christmas decorations and, of course, top-shelf wine to accompany your meal if you wish.