With our new neighborhood guide series, we’re spotlighting the pockets of Miami that give The Magic City its texture—from small businesses and local favorites to under-the-radar corners that deserve a closer look.
First is Upper Buena Vista, a jungle-like open-air shopping mall just north of the Miami Design District. Hidden behind tropical greenery, the enclave is more of a meditative destination than what you’d call a shopping mall. Pathways wind through banyan trees and lush foliage, with gardens dotted with cozy micro-boutiques and vibrant eateries that evoke Tulum’s zen vibe. One minute you’re shopping for handmade jewelry or getting your aura read; the next you’re sipping a juice under swaying palms.
Explore the neighborhood by checking out these standout spots to eat, shop, and wander.
Where to Shop in Upper Buena Vista
Wanahat
Three Ecuadorian friends came together out of a shared love of craft to launch this fashion-forward shop. The boutique’s name comes from Quechua, the indigenous language of the Andes, where “wana” means “to weave,” a theme that carries through to most everything inside. Toquilla straw hats (also known as Panama hats) line the walls and are ethically handmade by indigenous artisans. Many styles are dressed up with ribbons, feathers, or other embellishments. While there, browse colorful handmade jewelry, resortwear, beach totes, and home goods like embroidered napkins and placemats. wanahat.com
The House of Findings
For nearly a decade, stylist and founder Mayra Gonzalez has been curating what she calls “a collection of collections,” sourced from estate sales, yard sales, and all corners of the world. Her inventory spans clothing and accessories from the 1890s through the 1990s, vintage props, original artwork, and upcycled handmade lamps. Every visit turns up something different, which is reason enough to keep coming back. thehouseoffindings.com
Gypsophila
No, you’re not seeing double. Gypsophila occupies two different spaces in Upper Buena Vista. The first is dedicated to natural home and body products, including handcrafted soy-wax candles, body oils, cold-pressed soaps, and aromatherapy products made with clean, non-toxic ingredients. There are even fresh bunches of lavender and eucalyptus to take home. Cross over to the opposite side of the storefront, and the vibe shifts to crystals, stones, and handmade jewelry. gypsophilaessentials.com
Morphew Miami
Bridgette Morphew and Jason Lyon are the creative minds behind the fashion brand known for repurposing and reimagining antique and vintage materials. Their curated collection ranges from high-end vintage fashion and evening wear to sustainable accessories crafted from rare archival and antique textiles, all thoughtfully designed for today’s consumer. Whether you’re searching for a statement piece of jewelry to complete your look or luxurious home decor to elevate your space, Morphew is a gold mine of timeless finds with a distinctly one-of-a-kind feel. morphewworld.com
Restaurants & Cafes to Try
Panini & Fromage Gourmet Sandwiches
Panini & Fromage may be one of the newer additions to Upper Buena Vista, but it’s already earned a loyal following. Zoe Tugsuz and her husband run the rustic sandwich shop, turning out handmade-to-order paninis that lean into French and Italian influences. The bestseller is the Della Pistacchio, built on Tuscan schiacciata, a bread that’s slightly crispier than focaccia and holds up well to the fillings. Order an Italian soda to wash it all down, and don’t be surprised if you end up in a conversation with the owners before you leave. Follow along on Instagram.
El Turco Turkish Food
With its blue-and-white accents, evil-eye details, and hanging dreamcatcher-like decor, El Turco has become a genuine neighborhood staple you can’t miss. The Michelin Bib Gourmand–recognized restaurant draws a steady crowd for its home-style Turkish breakfast, baked goods, bold mezze, and massive sandwiches neatly made on round simit bread. Don’t forget an order of the flaky baklava filled with pistachios or walnuts. elturcoturkishfood.com
Devia Juice Bar
Husband-and-wife duo Diana and Juan Diego bring their backgrounds in health and wellness to the quaint Devia Juice Bar. The menu runs from fresh cold-pressed juices and wellness shots to smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and superfood lattes—all made without sugars or additives. If you’re not sure where to start, the No. 1 smoothie is a locals’ favorite. It features cacao, banana, almond butter, and almond milk. deviajuicebar.com
Beauty & Wellness Hotspots
The Chic Beauty Bar
Mary Yasol founded The Chic Beauty Bar after moving to South Florida and coming up empty in her search for a nail and spa experience that matched her standards. A former beauty queen and local real estate agent, she designed the space with velvet textures, gold accents, and leafy plants that make the studio feel like a retreat inside the neighborhood. Stop by for all your beauty needs, from gel-X nails, facials, waxing, and body treatments to lymphatic drainage massage, IV therapy, and more. thechicbeautywellness.com
Sila Miami
You might come to Sila Miami for one offering but end up staying for two hours. That’s the healing power of this open-air social wellness club that layers recovery modalities in a lush, garden-like setting. Think: sauna and cold plunge contrast therapy, red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, lymphatic detox treatments, and a full slate of movement classes, including Pilates and yoga. The best part? Mother Nature surrounds you through all of it. silamiami.com
More to Explore
The Wishing Tree
At the heart of Upper Buena Vista stands a 130-year-old banyan tree called The Bodhi, or the wish tree, a nod to the Buddhist tradition of making wishes and offerings at sacred trees. For a $1 donation to One Tree Planted, visit Sun and Ritual to receive a ribbon, write your wish, and tie it to the branches. No matter your reason—seeking blessings or just good vibes—your wish supports a good cause.
Aura Portal
Ever been curious about what your energy looks like? Aura Portal captures just that, using specialized cameras and sensors to replicate your electromagnetic field as a unique Polaroid-style portrait splashed with different colors in the background. Walk-ins are welcome, but hours vary, so we recommend reaching out before making the trip. Follow along on Instagram.
Lovely Plants Nursery
This plant shop spills out onto the pathways with orchid arrangements, succulents, monstera, and a mix of indoor and outdoor plants that make it nearly impossible to walk past empty-handed. Whether you’re just starting out or have a green thumb, you’ll find a plant to bring home. Follow along on Instagram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Upper Buena Vista in Miami?
Upper Buena Vista is an open-air shopping and dining destination in Miami’s MiMo District, just north of the Miami Design District off Northeast Second Avenue. Known for its lush tropical setting, the hidden enclave is home to independent boutiques, cafes, and wellness experiences tucked beneath dense greenery.
Where can you eat in Upper Buena Vista?
Upper Buena Vista is home to a mix of restaurants, cafes, and juice bars, ranging from Turkish breakfast at El Turco to tapas, gourmet sandwiches, and wellness-focused bites.
Upper Buena Vista is located at 5040 NE Second Ave., Miami, FL 33137; 305.539.9555; upperbuenavista.com.