It's Good to be Green

There’s something special about sitting comfortably outside with a small group of friends, enjoying the crisp Miami night air over appetizers and drinks. Surrounded by large trees, in the historic Coconut Grove area, Green Street Café offers just that. With lounge music in the background, still low enough to have a conversation, this is a perfect place for a first date or a girl’s night out.

I was lucky enough to go here in February, when the weather is ideal for dinner outside. For appetizers, we ordered their Jamaican Chicken Wings, which turned out to be well seasoned and not greasy at all (often a concern when ordering wings). For an entrée, I was able to try their tossed Linguini with Clams with white wine sauce. Let’s just say, there were only a few shells left on the plate by the end of the meal. Another perk at Green Street is that since it is a full bar and lounge as well, they have an array of drinks to offer, including wine, champagne, and their special Mango Martini. Cheers to that!

Address:

Neighborhood: Coconut Grove

3468 Main Hwy

Miami, FL 33133

http://www.greenstreetcafe.net/

Price Range: $13-20

Some Menu Favorites: Jamaican Chicken Wings . Hummus . Linguini with Clams . Blackened Dolphin . Mango Martini

On Grand Avenue and Bourbon Street

Well that's not the exact location, seeing as how Miami has no Bourbon Street. However, I can see the possibilty of changing the name after the insertion of Christabelle's Quarter into the Grove. This looks, feels, and tastes like the real French Quarters. From emmaculate chandeliers and feathered masks to velvet draped windows and a huge stained glass dome, Christabelle's is capturing the essence that is New Orleans.

From what I understand, the jazz bands that play here are truly entertaining and we were 2 hours early for their Happy Hour, which starts at 5 PM. Lucky for us, the hostess let us in on a secret--"lunch is the best menu we offer"--and right she may be.

For starters, their Crab and Corn bisque is a must! This soup was filled with chunky crab meat that seemed to melt in your mouth. I'm not sure what else was in it besides corn because the soup was so white and all the flavors were blended well, but I do know that this had to be the best part of my meal. I also tried thier blackened chicken wrap, which had jambalya rice in it (because you can't call it New Orleans without jambalya), but was a little too spicy and overseasoned for my liking. Not to worry, Christabelle's finished with an 'A' after we shared thier Banana Foster at the end. Honestly, can you go wrong with bananas, ice cream, crepes, and bourbon? I think not.

This is the kind of place everyone should go to at least once simply for the decor. Every single detail in Christabelle's was hand-picked and purposely integrated. This designer had me sold and I only saw the first floor! That's right, the grand staircase actually leads to a more intimate second and even more VIP third floor.

I feel like Christabelle's should be visited at night. I've passed by there before and the music is lively, the lighting is perfect, and even if they don't offer the hostess' favorite menu, I'm sure it will be a fun night out.

Address:
Neighborhood: Coconut Grove
3157 Commodore Plz
Coconut Grove, FL 33133

Price Range: $8-10/lunch; $15-20/dinner
Some Menu Favorites: Crab and Corn Bisque . Christabelle’s Beef and Andouille Burger . Shrimp Remoulade . Blackened Mahi . Banana Foster . Creme Brulee
Picture Credits: Lauren Doval

Celestial Nights at Cielo

Recently attending their 1-Year Anniversary Party, I realized that Cielo Restaurant & Supper Club has singled-handedly revived the once thriving Coconut Grove.

The venue itself is gorgeous, but unlike some South Beach restaurants whose decor overpowers the food, the 'Supper Club' is not to be underestimated. I enjoyed their Grilled Salmon Napolean dish off the new, revamped menu and let's just say it was worth the waiting for my entire 10-person party to be present to then finally be seated. This salmon was stacked with tomatoes, spinach, and an added wonton crunch to make a great dish.

Since I was attending during a big event for Cielo, media covered the place with flashes going off everywhere, music blared to set the atmosphere, and a few celebrities were present in Cielo's private wine room. However, I've been there plenty of other times and I can truly say it's always hosting a beautiful, elite crowd.

Reservations are recommended, however you can always enjoy the bar options while you wait for your table. ;)

Address:
3390 Mary Street
Streets of Mayfair
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
http://www.cielorestaurant.com/

Price Range: $18-28/plate
Some Menu Favorites: Empanadas de Ropa Vieja . Grilled Salmon Napoleon . Spicy Seafood Linguine . Lobster Bisque . Chocolate Fondue (For Two)