THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PLACES

The local people building the places, experiences, and businesses I think are worth knowing about.

Chef Eileen Andrade

Amelia's 1931 and Finka Table & Tap

Eileen Andrade was born into Miami croqueta royalty, so great food was pretty much in the DNA. She transformed an old Long John Silver’s into Finka Table & Tap, paying homage to her grandfather while making the space completely her own. Just a few blocks away, she opened Amelia’s 1931, a gorgeous little restaurant and speakeasy inspired by her grandmother.

These are two of my favorite spots in Miami because they feel personal, creative, and full of history without ever feeling stuffy. And honestly, the hardest part is deciding what to order — you really can’t go wrong with anything on either menu.

Will Thompson

The Dead Flamingo

Will Thompson is Little Havana through and through. Born and raised in the area, he first served as an Air Force medic before finding his way into restaurants, first as a server and then behind the bar. After years of bartending, learning the business, and talking about the dream of having a place of their own, Will and his partners finally made it happen on Calle Ocho.

It’s one of those very Miami stories I love — local guy, real hustle, lots of late nights, and eventually a set of keys to the bar he once only imagined opening.

And yes, "I Know Will" even if I don't have an official t-shirt.

Thank You Alex

Thank You Miami Cocina & Beer House

Diego Calvo

Righthand Miami

I really like what Diego Calvo has created with Right Hand Miami. A Chicago transplant with a cool farm-to-bar concept, he brings fresh ingredients, creative cocktails, and a retro vibe that just feels easy and fun.

It has personality without trying too hard, and those are always the places I end up loving.