Restaurant in Miami business district
 

I have an afternoon and evening to spare on a business trip to Miami next month. My hotel (and meeting) are on Brickell Avenue. Any suggestions for where I should take myself (alone) for dinner (without a car, so I'll have to rely on taxis or public transportation), and maybe a little shopping therapy in the afternoon? I'd also appreciate any tips for good local bookstores (especially those with good Spanish language sections).

Brickell is beautiful at night - We use to live there. Anyway, The Capital Grille is a good place, but the steaks are choice grade - not Prime. If that matters to you.<BR><BR>I believe there is now a Morton's (prime grade beef) nearby too. <BR><BR>The Intercontinental Hotel has a beautiful restaurant, too. Just take a cab - very close.

The Big Fish on the Miami River. Sit outdoors and watch the world go by on water, road, and tracks.

You are really in a urban wasteland area, yes it is pretty at night, but empty office towers may not be what you had in mind.<BR><BR>The above recommendations are good restaurants but really &quot;run of the mill&quot; style especially if you want to get a little Miami infusion. <BR><BR>You might want to take a cab into Coral Gables or South Beach which is about $20 each way.<BR><BR>As for bookstores, probably Coral Gables is your best bet. Get the cab to take you to the corner of Ponce de Leon and Miracle Mile, and you will be in the epicenter of many upscale restaurants, shopping and bookstores. A new upscale mall opened recently just off of Bird Rd which is just a few blocks from the drop off point.<BR><BR>This whole area is pedestrian friendly at night.<BR><BR>ANy reason your staying on Brickell? Personally I would never stay there unless you really needed to be within walking distance to your meeting.

Just caught you are &quot;eating alone&quot;. <BR><BR>In Coral Gables, Houstons has a great crowd, and it is always fun to eat at the bar.<BR><BR>In South Beach, again always fun to eat at the bar at China Grill, which is also one of the best restaurants in Miami (Asian/Carribean fusion).<BR><BR>Both these places are very busy and they are great places to eat when you are by yourself. Sorry nothing I could think of on Brickell.<BR><BR>