Miami isn’t just a place—it’s a mood. And according to Miky Grendene, founder of Casa Tua, it’s best experienced by boat, over dim sum carts, and at a candlelit table that’s launched more love stories than most rom-coms.
For our latest Show Me Your City feature, HAP Founder and Editor-in-Chief Brandon Berkson got the scoop from Grendene about the ten places he’d send anyone visiting Miami for the first time—from vintage guitars and cars in Wynwood to espresso martinis in Little Havana, kiteboarding at golden hour, and the Casa Tua universe he’s built over decades. We also dig into Miami’s biggest misconception, why the city deserves a deeper look, and where he’d take someone on a first date. Spoiler: it works.
Miky Grendene’s Top Miami Recommendations
Boating
“I would always recommend renting a boat and exploring the Miami waters. Cruise around Key Biscayne and stop in at Boater’s Grill for fresh fish and a cold beer.”
Casa Tua Hotel
“Little known fact—we have four boutique hotel rooms at Casa Tua. They are charming, classic and warm. We always welcome our friends, family and members to stay with us here.”
Tropical Chinese
“A Miami locals classic! I’ve been in Miami since the early 80s and so has Tropical Chinese. On the weekends they offer Dim Sum with a traditional Hong Kong style push cart—it’s a great, casual but classic experience.”
Walt Grace Vintage Miami
“A unique space in the heart of Wynwood that celebrates vintage—focusing on guitars and cars you can find rare collectibles or just come in for coffee and enjoy the view.”
VB Men’s Boutique
“My friend owns a boutique in Sunset Harbour where my sons and I love to shop. They carry great quality, international clothing and always take great, personal care of customers.”
The Fillmore
“Our neighbors just across the street from Casa Tua, The Fillmore, puts on great shows. The talent is diverse and shows are intimate. It’s always worth checking out their calendar when coming to town—followed by dinner at Casa Tua, even better!”
Miami Kite Boarding
“My sons and I are avid kite boarders. There’s nothing better than getting in the water and fully immersing in nature. We like to visit our friends at Miami Kite Boarding in Crandon Park. All levels are welcome!”
Little Havana
“My wife Leti is latin and I have a half latin, half Italian soul. It’s deeply part of the DNA of Miami and no visit is complete without a trip to Little Havana—our favorites are Ball & Chain and Café La Trova.”
Casa Tua Cucina
“When I opened Casa Tua Cucina I sought out to prove that quality and quantity can exist together. Cucina sees over 3,000 happy customers a day—many of them local families and business people who join us multiple times a week—and the quality remains at the highest level. It’s a staple in our household and part of my everyday Miami experience.”
The Moorings, Islamorada
“Our home away from home, just two hours away from Miami that is a secret little paradise.”
What’s the Biggest Misconception About Miami?
“A lot of people have the perception that Miami is superficial. It can be, there’s no doubt about that, but I always encourage people to look deeper. There is so much beauty, culture and nature in this city. We are growing into one of the most important cities in the world and we are becoming more sophisticated.”
Where He’d Take Someone—and Why
“After 25 years Casa Tua is constantly regarded as one of the most romantic restaurants in the city. Many of our clients who have had their first dates here have gone onto have their wedding and later their wedding anniversaries with us. I can’t argue with that….”
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Miami, Florida, United States
