America turns 200 something this year and Miami is stepping up its patriotic game with a plethora of awesome party, dining and I’m getting the hell out of here options. Since we might be the least patriotic state in the nation, it is our obligation to devour bbq and pound alcohol to represent the obese, alcoholic population we have become. Here is a list of Miami July 4th party, dining and getaway options.
Toscana Divino
“Grigliata Italiana” at Toscana Divino will start at 6 PM with Happy Hour. Select cicchetti will be offered for $8 and will be prepared outside on the grill, like NY Style Skewers. Come socialize outside around the BBQ while enjoying cold beers and cocktails. After happy hour, the grill will stay open and they will be serving a mixed meat platter for $24. For more information, please call: (305) 371-2767.
Nikki Beach
Nikki Beach Miami, the quintessential South of France style beach club known for it’s joie de vivre and larger than life celebrations does 4th of July the good, old American way – with explosive beats, over-the-top BBQ, and a massive fireworks display across the South Beach sky. Celebrated at each of the twelve Nikki Beach locations across the world, Fourth of July Nikki Beach-style has become legendary. This year, IndepenDance DJ’s include Boris, Cocodrills, Vanjee, Patrick M, ALX, Allan Gallego, Bill Kelly, Donnie Lowe, Carabetta & Doon, Thinking of Us, Chiri, Yander Delgado and surprise guests take to the decks, leading guests into hours of dance floor revelry.
Beachside, guests can feast on the ultimate BBQ featuring eight kinds of burgers – from The St. Tropez Foie Gras Burger, featuring seared foie gras, sautéed mushrooms and a fried egg, to the ‘Meeerrrica Burger featuring American cheese and pork belly bacon smashed between two glazed donuts – and many more. Also on the menu are a variety of foot-long hot dogs smothered in chili and slaw, and Chef Frank’s famous truffle fries, fried macaroni and cheese balls and many more. The night is complete with a massive fireworks show – one of only two that take place directly on South Beach – exclusively for Nikki Beach guests who can recline on the beach club’s luxurious day beds or sit with their toes in the sand teepee-side while watching the night sky. IndepenDANCE takes place July 4th from noon until 11pm and is 21+. Tickets start at $20.00 and burgers start at $10.00.
Delano Beach Club
On July 4th, Delano’s poolside oasis, Delano Beach Club, invites guests to its celebratory night swim soirée in honor of America’s independence. From 7 p.m. until 2 a.m., guests can enjoy grilling in the orchard and ice cream carts, and revelers are encouraged to swim under the full moon and starry sky while dancers and models provide in-pool performances where glow-in-the-dark beach balls and floaties will be up for grabs. With host Yes Julz and music by Tito, Arlette Carlin and Dave Sol, sounds will be bouncing off the legendary hotel pool keeping the party going till the early morning. For cabana or daybed reservations please call (305) 924-4071 or e-mail [email protected]
Jalapeño Mexican Kitchen
Oceanfront eatery Jalapeño Mexican Kitchen will be celebrating Independence day in full summer mode on July 4th. Serving up chicken, pork and steak tacos ($4 each) on the grill as you enter the restaurant. Red, White & Blue “Liberty Vice” cocktails ($5) will be offered all day, layering the restaurant’s signature blended Strawberry Daiquiri and Piña Colada with a Blue Curaçao Floater. This menu will be served from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Guests can also enjoy a front-row view of Miami Beach’s legendary firework show – beginning at 9 p.m. For more information, please call: (305) 532-4747.
Thompson Hotel
One of Miami Beach’s favorite hangouts, Thompson Miami Beach, is celebrating the Fourth of July with a poolside Dirty BBQ. The cookout will be all-American with a Thompson twist, featuring messy favorites from Dale Talde’s Asian-American TALDE restaurant (opening late summer at Thompson), like the famous Kung Pao Chicken Wings with buttermilk ranch (5 for $8 or 10 for $10) and Korean Fried Chicken as a plate (1 pc, $10) or bucket ($25). Signature July 4th BBQ staples like hot dogs and burgers will also be grilled up poolside — with a lengthy list of toppings for guests to make their wieners and burgers as traditional or “dirty” as they like. Side dishes will include a hearty potato salad, grilled corn, baked beans and coleslaw. Guests can wash it all down with $5 beers; $25 buckets of beer; and $7 drink specials including Kelvin slushies — and take a dip in one of the hotel’s two oceanfront heated pools, while enjoying sounds from a live local DJ. Admission is free. For reservations and cabana or bungalow rentals, please call (786)605-4041 and ask for the Director of Fun.
The Federal
As patriotic as their name dictates, The Federal – notorious for their biskits – is offering an all American style BBQ and boozy brunch to satisfy all cravings for red, white, and blue. Stand out dishes include: Uni Croissant (sea urchin, chives, sea salt, and butter) and BBQ’d Deviled Eggs (smoked pulled pork shoulder, pickled serrano, and creamy horseradish). With visually appealing and colorful cocktails, guests can indulge in festive bottomless mimosas, tropical bellinis, mojitos, Micheladas, and Pabst Blue Ribbon Tallboys for $19. For reservations, please call: (305) 758-9559.
Midtown Oyster Bar
Nestled in the heart of bustling Midtown Miami, Midtown Oyster Bar has become a place for locals and visitors to enjoy New England-inspired dishes but also the MOB Burger. The recipe is Executive Chef Ralph Colon’s own and continues to surprise patrons at the venue. For 4th of July celebrations only, Midtown Oyster Bar will be taking orders for ready-to-grill patties to go so patrons can grill them at home. The MOB Burger combines the perfect blend of Chef’s cut prime beef including brisket, short rib and chuck mixed with a tried-and-perfect mix of seasoning including but not limited to paprika, lemon pepper, brown sugar, cayenne, onion and garlic powder. At the restaurant, it is served with Applewood smoked bacon, white American cheese, lettuce and tomato on a potato bun and a side of homemade ketchup with unique clove and cinnamon flavors. With Independence Day’s grilling mania around the corner, Chef Ralph and Chef-owner Angelo Masarin decided to share their burgers beyond the restaurant. Anyone can order a minimum of 4 10-ounce patties. Each patty-only set of 4 is priced at $26. They can be picked at the restaurant on the morning of July 4th between 10am and noon. There is no maximum number of patties that can be ordered but only in sets of 4. There is an option to upgrade to “full package” priced at $32 for each set of 4 patties and include buns, toppings and condiments, including MOB’s homemade ketchup. Orders are being accepted by email at [email protected] until Thursday July 2nd at 2pm.
Shore Club
Reload Pool Parties is bringing it back to where it began. The popular party series got it’s start at Shore Club during WMC in 2013 and this year is celebrating Independence Day in style at Shore Club with a lineup of all-star DJs including Harry Romero, Jonathan Cowan, Ollie Sanders and Dan.K. Known to deliver vibrant exciting pool parties; next-level entertainment and beautiful crowds. Noon to 8 PM daylong passes are available for $40 per person; noon to 3 PM tickets are $20. For more information or table reservations call (561) 206-2582 or visit reloadpoolparties.com.
Rec Room
On Friday, July 3 from 11 PM to close, LDV Hospitality’s Rec Room will host Miami’s own DJ Laz to kick-start Independence Day. Celebrate in the subterranean lounge with classic Miami dance music of the early 80s’ while DJ Laz mixes it up until the break of dawn for this Miami Bass themed party. Rec Room will also play host to local Miami DJ Iron Lyon on July 4 to continue the celebration of America’s favorite holiday. For more information, please call: (786) 975-2555.
Regent Cocktail Club
Brendan O’Hara makes his return to Regent Cocktail Club with The Rescues on Friday, July 3 to commence the holiday weekend. From 10 p.m. – midnight, Guests can enjoy soul-pop tunes while sipping on classic American cocktails, including Bourbon Old Fashions and Mint Juleps. Escape the hustle and bustle of South Beach and celebrate Independence Day with live music and cocktails at this elegant, inviting cocktail bar. For more information, please call: (786) 975-2555.
Radio Bar
Radio Bar is hosting a 4th of July Bash on Saturday, July 4 featuring $7 Sailor Jerry Punch and $7 Shot of Sailor Jerry & PBR with late night BBQ starting at 10:00 PM. Not only are there food and drink specials but there will also be a Miami Ink Pop-Up Shop. Radio Bar is a welcoming, local neighborhood venue making it the ideal 4th of July destination in South Beach. With a convivial atmosphere and ample space, it is the perfect spot for groups looking to celebrate. For more information, please go to radiosouthbeach.com.
Tamarina
Celebrate Fourth of July at Brickell’s coastal Italian eatery, Tamarina with a family style BBQ and great views of downtown’s fireworks. On July 4, Tamarina will spice things up from 4:00 – 9:00 PM with grilled, barbeque-style dishes including Pork Ribs, Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks, Beef Sliders topped with swiss cheese, bacon, avocado and spicy mayo, Grilled Corn and Grilled Asparagus. Tamarina will also offer American favorites from the kitchen, including Mac and Cheese, Red Bean Casserole, Baked Potatoes and Coleslaw Salad that can be washed down with unlimited Peroni Beer and Four Roses Bourbon while children indulge in ice cream and soda. In addition, diners can enjoy live music while they indulge followed by a beautiful display of fireworks at the amphitheater on Biscayne. The delectable BBQ buffet will cost $56 to match the number of signers of the Declaration of Independence. For reservations call 305-579-1888.
Villa Azur
Dine decadently for Independence Day at Villa Azur, the South of France inspired eatery located in the heart of South Beach. This July 4, the mediterranean cuisine venue will celebrate with a special holiday-themed drink, The First Lady, made with lemon ice cream, raspberry vodka and fresh mint served in a martini glass and will be available throughout the night along with the restaurant’s usual mouthwatering menu. Pastry chef Sebastien Feneyrol’s Strawberry Cheesecake will also be served, crafted solely for the holiday for $14. Please call (305) 763-8688 for more information.
Touche
Guests looking to stay cool and sweat-free can celebrate Fourth of July at Touche Restaurant and adjacent Rooftop, named “Best Rooftop Dining” in Miami New Times’ Best of 2015. Touche’s new summer menu features dishes such as Linguini Alle Vongole Veraci, linguini with manila clams, white wine, and extra virgin olive oil sauce; Bistecca Alla Pizzaiola, pan seared prime in cut NY strip loin, topped with fresh tomato sautéed in extra virgin olive oil and fresh oregano; and Salmone in Salsa Al Limone, pan seared salmon over sautéed spinach, lemon and butter sauce. Guests can enjoy the lighter fare and views of the Downtown Miami skyline through the floor to ceiling windows that surround the dining room. After dinner, guests can venture out to the Rooftop to sip on one of their specialty cocktails such as the Sweet Ginger, Remy VSOP, Disarrono, lemon juice, simple syrup, muddle ginger, garnish with lemon wedge. Touche Restaurant and adjacent Rooftop is the ideal one-stop destination for a special Fourth of July meal and drinks. For reservations please go to touchemiami.com.
Getaway Options
South Seas Island Resort (Captiva Island, FL)
For a fun-filled Fourth of July celebration at the beach, escape to Southwest Florida’s South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island. To kick off this year’s long holiday weekend, the resort is holding its 7th Annual Hot Dog Eating Competition followed by a Red, White, & “Boom” Party featuring music, children’s activities and food & beverage options. On Saturday, the Star Spangled Celebration is complete with a patriotic golf cart parade, live DJ entertainment, special food & beverage items, “Sunset Shellabration” and must-see fireworks display. Guests may also opt to enjoy fireworks by boat with a Fireworks Cruise. Additional special weekend activities include a homerun derby, fishing tournament, island style kids’ night out, casino night, twister competition and stargazing adventure, among other activities. Vacationers who book the resort’s “Summer Getaway” package can receive a fourth night and kids’ breakfast for free, based on a four-night minimum stay. Also included in the package, guests receive the resort’s coupon booklet with over $250 in savings on resort outlets. Nightly rates start from $261 with the offer. For more information or reservations, please click here.
Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (Key West, FL)
Now in its 31st year, Key West’s annual July 4th picnic to benefit Hospice of the Florida Keys and the Visiting Nurse Association takes place at Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with the largest private beach on the island, the celebration is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. with fireworks starting at 9 p.m. The traditional buffet offers hamburgers, hot dogs and more for $25 per adult, $10 per child between four and 12, and free for children three and younger. General admission (no buffet) tickets are $10. For an elegant alternative, attendees can choose reserved beachfront seats for $150 per person. Live music, a silent auction and children’s games round out the fun-filled family festivities. For event tickets, call 305-320-0676 or visit www.4thofJulyPicnic.com. Nightly rates start from $439 per room on July Fourth. For room reservations or more information about Casa Marina, please visit their website.
Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts (Ponte Vedra, FL)
This 4th of July the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club and Ponte Vedra Lodge & Club invite guests to show off their red white and blue pride with a variety of patriotic and beach themed activities. Kicking off the celebration on Friday July 3rd, the Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts host beach games, crafts in the sand near the family-friendly oceanfront pool, a beach DJ playing favorite tunes throughout the day, a bounce house, patriotic hat decorating station, sno-cones and more. On American’s birthday, guests staying at the Beach Resorts enjoy a sand sculpting contest, face painting, treasure hunt, holiday buffet, watermelon eating contest and more. The celebration continues through Sunday with family arts and crafts, tennis and golf clinics, bounce house and gourmet dining. Open to hotel guests and members only. For more information or reservations, please visit www.pontevedra.com.
Boca Raton Resort & Club (Boca Raton, FL)
This 4th of July, the Boca Raton Resort & Club, a Waldorf Astoria resort in South Florida, celebrates the nation’s independence with an evening filled with food, fireworks, live entertainment and more. Members and guests gather on the Grand Lawn for wet & wild fun with waterslides, slip & slides, a dunk tank and various carnival games. Guest enjoy live music from the 80’s by local band On the Roxx as well as a plentiful holiday barbeque featuring sizzling sliders, lobster medallions, jumbo shrimp, pulled pork, brisket and more. The evening concludes with a grandiose firework display on the 18th hole of its championship golf course. Open to hotel guests and club members only, the celebration begins at 6:30pm and is $85 for guests over 21, $35 for guests under 21. Nightly rates start at $199. For more information, please visit www.bocaresort.com.