There’s no place like South Beach, Miami. Between the endless party scenes, incredible restaurants, and the gorgeous coastline, there is an overwhelming amount of things to do, see and taste! If you’re looking to take a step away from the party, take a short walk over to Miami’s best “hidden” gem: Española Way!

My fiancé and I have spent lots of time Miami – that’s where we rehearsed for many entertainment contracts. One day, we decided to explore South Beach and happened upon Española Way. It is now our FAVORITE spot in Miami.

This charming European Alley Way just off the main Downtown area of Miami is the perfect place for a date night cocktail, dinner, and cigar.

With tons of historical Cuban and Italian restaurants, boutiques, and cigar shops, it’s the best spot in Miami for couples looking for a romantic date night.

Española Way – Everything to See, Eat and Do!

History of Española Way

Española Way was the first commercial development in Miami when it was originally built in the 1920s. Built with French and Spanish architectural style in mind, the “Historic Spanish Village” was dedicated to honor the pioneering artists of the time.

In 2017, Española Way underwent renovations and became a pedestrian-only street! Today, the charming street honors historical art while also serving as a modern cultural hub.

Española Way Miami Directions

Nestled between 14th and 15th street on Miami Beach, Española Way is easily accessible by car or foot.

Ride Share Service Drop off Points

Drexel Court: 447 Española Way, Miami Beach, Fl 33139

Washington Avenue: 1440 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, Fl 33139

Parking in Española Way

Z Ocean Garage: 1437 Collins Ave Miami Beach, FL 33139 – Starts at $10/hour – only 1 minute walk away

16th Street Garage: 1550 Collins Ave South Beach Miami Beach, FL 3313 – $4 for 2 hours – 6 minute walk away

Lincoln Place Garage: 1601 Washington Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33139 – $4 for 2 hours – 7 minute walk away

(all parking info found on Parkopedia.com)

Walking from anywhere around the middle of South Beach is super easy. We used Google Maps when we were making our way there. We started on South Beach between 11th and 12th street. It was just a 12 minute walk! We felt very safe and it was definitely worth the short walk.

Best Española Way Restaurants

Food is what brought us here and that’s what probably will bring you here too! There are so many amazing Española Way restaurants Miami offers … Cuban cuisine, Italian food, seafood, it’s everything you look for in a night out in Florida!

Most Española Way restaurants open in the morning, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy multiple meals even if you’re only there for one day! Check out the top dining places on Española Way.

Mercato Della Pescheria

If you are looking to match the Mediterranean ambiance, Mercato is my pick for the best restaurants on Española Way. Italian and seafood: how can you go wrong!?

We happened upon this restaurant without a reservation, and boy am I glad we did. The gorgeous establishment has indoor and outdoor seating. Every corner of the restaurant exudes European charm, never mind the mouthwatering menu!

They have a vast wine and cocktail list, full raw bar, cured meats and cheeses, hand made pastas, and incredibly fresh seafood.

We sat outside and felt like we were in Italy. Although there is no dress code (like many fancier spots on South Beach), the service is five star.

We ordered the amazing octopus and oysters on the half-shell for appetizers.

I ordered a classic spaghetti and meatballs (so so good) and Jonnie ordered the epic Linguine Aragosta. Yes, that is a whole lobster on his plate.

It was impeccable. My mouth is watering reliving this dinner. 10/10. This is the best italian restaurant Española Way offers, by far!

Havana 1957

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If you are looking for Cuban Cuisine, Havana 1957 is for you. With indoor and outdoor seating, grab an authentic dish and enjoy the flavors and sounds of Cuba while you people watch!

Located at one of the most photographed corners on the street, this spot will satisfy your craving for Paella.

Offering delicious dishes and live entertainment at select times, Havana 1957 is a classic choice for a night out on Española Way!

The Drexel

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Stop by this modern and sophisticated spot, where you’ll find chef curated Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Enjoy coastal flavors alongside crafted cocktails or a unique boutique wine, all while enjoying the historical sights of Española Way. Check out the menu and reservation information at the Drexel on their website here!

They have a daily happy hour at the bar (5:30-7) where you can enjoy $10 appetizers, $10 wine and cocktails, and $5 beers. Do not miss out on the best happy hour deal that Española Way Miami restaurants offer.

Españolita

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This spot is a great choice if you’re looking for one of the best Spanish restaurants Española Way offers.

Located in a prime spot, have a meal at Españolita and be transported to Spain! With an extensive wine list and plenty of authentic dishes, you won’t know which tapas to try next.

Check out more information on Open Table!

Pane & Vino

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Named the best Española Way Miami Italian Restaurant in 2022 by Restaurant Guru, Pane & Vino is another great Italian spot on Española Way!

This more casual restaurant has a menu complete with every classic dish you could want: Bruschetta, Cacio e Pepe, Lasagne, Branzino… the list goes on and on.

If you love fresh pasta, this may win your vote for Española Way best restaurants. Check out their website for reservations, menu and info here.

Best Shopping on Española Way

Whether you’re looking for a unique cigar or a new addition to your wardrobe, the unique shops on Española Way will give you plenty to peruse!

Española Cigar Bar & Lounge

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If you are looking to get a great recommendation on a unique cigar to enjoy while roaming the street (or with a cocktail in hand at the lounge), the Española Cigar Bar is the place to be.

With a vast selection of cigars, featured cocktails and a full menu, this is one of the best Española Way bars.

Check out everything about Española Cigar Bar and Lounge here!

P448 Shoe Store

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Looking for some fresh new kicks? P448 is a high-end sneak store that has some of the coolest shoes in town.

Treat yourself to a pair no one else will have at this innovative and modern store. Located right across the street from Española Cigar Lounge, this stop cannot be missed!

Atmosphere Boutique

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Head over to Atmosphere Boutique if you’re looking for a new dress or top to add to your wardrobe.

This store offers a small, curated collection of tropical-inspired clothing, perfect to match the charming “atmosphere” of Española Way.

They don’t have a website (that I could find), but their Facebook Page offers information on their hours, location, and current styles! Be sure to check them out.

Activities on Española Way

Visit an Art Gallery

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This street, as it was intended from it’s creation in the 1920’s, is a hub for art, both historical and modern!

There are plenty of art galleries very close to Española Way, all with unique styles and influences. The closest gallery to all of the main spots is Art by Picos Pelegri. Peruse many colorful works of pop art by Pelegri, and even arrange a commissioned piece to take home!

Other art galleries nearby include Romero Britto Fine Art Gallery and LIK Fine Art Miami (both located on Lincoln Way, about a 5 min walk away).

Play & Watch Games at Lost Weekend Miami

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Head over to one of the biggest party stops on the street: Lost Weekend Miami! Check out this giant bar, filled with pool tables, air hockey, dart boards, and plenty of TVs to watch sporting events.

Lost Weekend is a full bar that hosts weekly events including poker nights, DJs, live music, big game showings, and more! They also have a food menu provided by the Alibi Restaurant.

Be sure to check out Lost Weekend if you find yourself on Española Way late at night.

Best Hotels on Española Way

Take your trip to Española Way to the next level and stay the night! The best way to take in the area is to stay out late at night and find a place for brunch the next morning 🙂

Here are the top hotels on this street!

Esmé Miami Beach

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Matching the chic, Mediterranean vibes of the street, Esme is a 4-star boutique hotel, perfect to spend the night!

Enjoy quaint and tidy rooms, a roof top pool and bar (with cabanas!), and the amazing Drexel Restaurant just steps from your room. This is a small oasis on Española Way that will take your trip to the Spanish Village to the next level.

Learn about reservations here!

Kasa El Paseo Miami Beach

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Enjoy one of the many unique and vibrant rooms available at Kasa El Paseo, right off the main drag of Española Way.

Kasa (sort of like an Airbnb) provides a hotel-style experience at El Paseo – a more budget-friendly option without having to sacrifice quality!

Check out how to snag a room here!

Courtyard by Marriott Miami Beach

If you’d rather stay at a Marriott (or have points!), there is a great Courtyard just a short walk from Española Way.

Enjoy the familiar amenities of this Miami Beach Courtyard after a night of exploring.

Map of Española Way

Be sure to save this curated map of all the spots mentioned in this post so you know exactly where to go on your next visit to Miami! 🙂

Española Way Wrap Up

And there you have my complete guide to a great day, night or weekend at the famous Española Way Miami.

Whether you decide to just stop by for some of the best restaurants Miami Beach Florida offers and Cuban cigars, or you’re planning to stay for the weekend in a Mediterranean-inspired hotel, you’ll have so much fun in the “not so hidden gem” of Miami.

It’s one of my favorite places to visit in town – I hope you have a blast!