SHOPPING  & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ART GALLERIES

Britto Central: Owned by world-famous artist Romero Britto, Britto Central is packed with paintings, sculptures and collectibles featuring his brightly colored, whimsical designs. Just try to stay depressed when walking into this gallery. Location: 818 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-8821.

Broadway Arts & Framing: Unique custom framing, art gallery, restoration, retail shop or professional service. Location: 7551 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-754-1773.

Carel Gallery: Carries rare original post-Impressionist paintings from the late 19th century and early 20th century as well as oil paintings, drawings and watercolor pieces from more recent times. Location: 922 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-4384.

European Art Gallery: A new concept store for modern European art, light design, and interior decoration. Featuring artists such as Ruth Azcona Lizarraga, Irmaly and Elmar Hund. Location: 61 NE 40 St., Miami. Phone: 305-438-9006.

Galerie D’Arts Decorators: This gallery specializes in fins French and American furniture from the 1930’s to the 1960’s and features work from European artists such as Adnet and Leleu. Location: 1629 Jefferson Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0123.

Galeria del Sol: This gallery represents and displays the work of talented Mexican artists such as Francisco Ramos, Adolfo de Florencia and Juan Carlos Oviedo. Location: 1628 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-7076.

Howard Austin Feld: Adds a new definition to nude art. As in digitally created (and sometimes altered) photographs featuring naked people doing all kinds of stuff. Location: 663 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5999.

Piano Art Galeria: An art gallery featuring the works of painters from around the world also doubles as the Music Academy of Coral Gables. Piano & Art Galeria has quickly gained recognition for its high quality instruments, excellent service, great value and overall artistic environment, making it one of the most respected piano retailers in South Florida. Location: 1560 S. Dixie Highway, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-665-0009. Web site: www.pianogaleria.com.

Tadeo Lazaro: The work of Tadeo Lazaro, the “Plastic Painter,” is a contemporary kind of mix of Surrealism with a little Pop Art and Impressionism tossed in. The end result is highly unusual but utterly captivating. Location: 291 Shore Drive East, Miami. Phone: 786-556-9655.

Tip Freeman’s Paintings and Art Gallery: Besides selling and displaying original paintings, prints, limited editions, photos and graphics, Tip’s provides a variety of services such as custom framing, dry mounting, custom size canvas stretching, and repair and restoration. Tip’s can even remove mildew from your personal fine art collection. Location: 738 NE 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-754-8221.

World Erotic Art Museum: For a cover charge of $15, one can gain entry to the mezzanine level of a Washington Avenue building and gaze upon Naomi Wilzig’s, uh, unique collection of art, which includes biblical, mythological, Oriental, ethnographic, neoclassical, European 17th to 20th century, American 20th century, etc., etc. Open until midnight daily. Location: 1205 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; www.weam.com. Phone: 305-532-9336.

AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIPS, BOATS  AND RELATED SERVICES

All Glass Tinting: For the best tints in Miami, this is the place for you. Location: 10550 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-899-8468.

Avis: A variety of General Motors cars, mini vans and sport utility vehicles to rent from. Location: 2318 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-4441.

Beach Auto Tag: Having an expired tag is pretty bad. In Miami Beach, the hunting ground of marauding parking enforcers, it downright sucks. Fortunately, Beach Auto Tag is in a convenient location for those living in Greater Miami Beach. Location: 800 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-3277.

Beach Scooter: Why drive in a big automobile, when you can buy or rent a maneuverable, slender scooter? Gas and electric-powered scooters are available for rent and sale, including such models as SX Moskito, Vivacity, Fox, Dragster, Formula and Torpedo. Location: 1341 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7878.

Bimmer Shop: This venue is the alternative to the pricey and often-overburdened dealer for a full range of automatic services, exclusively for BMW’s. Location: 94 N.E. 20th Terrace, Miami. Phone: 305-573-2691.

Braman BMW: New and used BMWs. Leasing also available. Location: 2060 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-571-1205.

Brickell Motors: Prides itself on its low overhead which “means low prices.” Brickell sells new cars and used cars. They’ll lease, they’ll finance, they’ll fix and provide parts. Location: 665 SW 8th St., Miami. Phone: 305-856-3000.

Budget National Center: Has economy-luxury cars, convertibles, SUVs, minivans, passenger vans, cargo vans and trucks for rental. Location: 2331 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 6742 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 3043 NE 163rd St., Aventura. Phone: 1-800-527-7000.

Cartronics: Giant selection of automobile stereos and alarms at competitive prices. Location: 490 NE 167th St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-945-8300.

Cubi-K Scooters: A large selection of street-legal scooters as well as off-road and electric scooters for sale and rent. It is also an authorized dealer of Bladez Corporation. Repair services available. Location: 7341 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-2834

Enterprise: Rental cars for all occasions. Has everything from economy and mid-sized cars and vans to “exotics” and “luxuries” like Hummers, Landrovers, BMWs and Jaguars. Location: 6687 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-8411.

Gables Honda: Offers a complete line of Honda, Kawasaki and Aprilia motorcycles, scooters and ATVs as well as the necessary parts. Gables is also the authorized dealer for Honda and Kawasaki watercraft. Location: 7300 Bird Road, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-266-8300.

Karma Kar Wash and Café: The perfect venue for lunch and a car wash, at the same time. Location: 7010 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-759-1392.

Larry’s Service Center: For the last 25 years, Larry’s Service Center has been giving its customers an honest diagnosis of what’s ailing their cars and an accurate estimate of how much it will cost to fix. Location: 1769 Purdy Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2770.

Leo’s Touch, Inc.: Washing, detailing and other aesthetic improvements to your automobile are all done by hand at Leo’s. Location: 5600 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-751-7906.

Ocean Cadillac: If you own a Cadillac, or would like to, stop by this dealership that is sure to take care of all your needs. From financing to servicing to test drives and quick quotes, Ocean Cadillac makes owning one of these babies that much easier. Location: 1000 Kane Concourse, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-2271. Web site: www.oceancadillac.net.

Plaza Auto & Tire: A family-owned business offering the benefits of a nationwide guarantee (courtesy of Napa Auto Care). Plaza’s technicians are constantly getting trained and certified in the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your car gets the best, most efficient service possible. Location: 3005 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-573-3878. Web site: www.plazatireandauto.com.

Prestige Imports: Prestige does sales and leasing, has an inventory of pre-owned cars, and will provide service and parts. Location: 14780 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-1000.

Ronald W. Shane Watersports Center: This first-class center, led by world champions and Olympic instructors, offers rowing classes, membership in the rowing club, youth and adult programs, kayak rentals and tours. Location: 6500 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-8876.

South Beach Finest Hand Car Wash: Treat your cherished vehicle better by going to South Beach Finest Hand Car Wash where human beings wash your car’s exterior and clean its interior, instead of automated machines. The kids at South Beach Finest will even vacuum the inside, make your tires look shiny and wipe down the doorjambs. That’s just the basic service. Finest Car Wash also does waxing, shampooing, tinting and complete detailing. Location: 1229 18th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-9282

South East Florida Motorcycle Safety School: Easy and affordable courses to learn to ride motorcycles for beginners. They offer motorcycle endorsements for new owners. Location: 2734 NW 183rd St., Miami Gardens. Phone: 305-430-9997.

Triton Scooters Rental and Cyber Café: Yes, besides providing Internet services and selling electronic items and jewelry, Triton rents out scooters of all kinds. Scooter rentals are $60 for 24 hours. Location: 2745 B Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0115.

Tropical Chrysler Jeep: Has a big selection of new and used cars, vans and SUVs—especially jeeps and Chryslers. Location: 8880 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami Shores. Phone: 1-800-906-4371.Web site: www.tropicalchryslerjeep.com.

BEAUTY SUPPLIES

Aventura Beauty Center: Provides customers with Aveda and other beauty products. Location: 18351 NE 19th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-9094.

Brownes and Co.: Founded in 1995, the Miami-based chain now has a global reputation as being a world-famous product retailer for more than 100 sought-after (and hard to find) beauty lines for hair, makeup, skin care, shaving, bath and body, soaps of the world, travel and stress relief, fragrance and customized products for the home. Complex also includes the Some Like It Hot full service salon, a spa and even yoga instruction. Location: 841 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8703.

GBS, The Beauty Store: One of South Florida’s largest beauty supply retailers with more than 18,000 kinds of cosmetics, skincare, aromatherapy, nail-care, and hair-care products. In addition, GBS stores include wigs, hairpieces and accessories, theatrical cosmetic centers and full-service hair and nail salons. Log onto www.gbsbeauty.com, where you can shop for thousands of items, including GBS’ signature line of color cosmetics. Location: 1621 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4074.

L’Occitane en Provence: This health and beauty boutique sells quality body lotions, cleansers, oils, soaps, and moisturizers to pamper and refresh the body. Also sells home products such as candles. Location: 540 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-0752.

Rose’s Cosmetics Makeup & More: Rose uses her decades of makeup experience to provide makeup products and consulting services for male and female customers of all ages. Location: 17830 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-1400.

Sephora: Discover a setting where prestige cosmetics are showcased not behind glass, but in gorgeous displays open for touching and trying. Has over 200 product selections for men, women and children. From makeup colors, fragrances, skincare, bath care and accessories, the product range includes new releases, best sellers, classics and the exclusive Sephora collection. Location: 721 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0904.

BIKE AND ROLLERBLADE SHOPS

Bike Tech Advantage: A staff of professional bike mechanics and enthusiasts will help you pick out the best two-wheeled device for your needs and assemble it for you. Added bonus: Bike Techers will let you take your new bike for a test ride prior to your purchase. Location: 2200 S.W. 22nd St. (Coral Way), Miami; 7252 S.W. 40th St. (Bird Road), Miami. Phone: (Coral Way) 305-858-3343; (Bird Road) 305-261-1211. Web site: http://biketechmiami.com.

Fritz’s Skate, Bike, and Surf: Carries a full line of skates, bicycles, sunglasses, surfing equipment and apparel. Rental and repair services also available. Location: 730 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1954.

J.B. Bike: J.B. Bike carries virtually all brands and models of mountain bikes, trail bikes, road bikes, hybrids, tandems (if you want a bicycle built for two), and tricycles for children and adults for sale and rent. J.B. will also repair your bikes, with same-day service in most cases. Bike clothing and accessories are also sold here. Location: 7316 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-3622.

Miami Beach Bicycle Center: An exclusive Miami Beach vendor of the well-known bicycle brands Raleigh, Cannondale, and Trek, the Bicycle Center has specialized in bicycling innovation throughout its several years of service. Also offers a wide assortment of services such as bicycle rentals and repairs. Sells accessories including locks, clothing, shoes, and bags. Location: 601 Fifth St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0150.

BOOKSTORES AND NEWSSTANDS

Barnes & Noble: A mega-bookstore that sells books of all sorts (particularly a sweet science fiction section), B&N is also equipped with a coffee house. Location: 18711 NE Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-9770.

Books and Books: The place for those living on the Beach and in the Gables who are hungry for books, magazine, coffee, cake and Danishes and who don’t want to drive all over Northeast Dade. B&B also features lectures from authors of all walks of life. Location: 933 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables; 9700 Collins Ave. Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-532-3222 (Miami Beach); 305-442-4408 (Coral Gables); 305-864-4241 (Bal Harbour).

Borders: Not just a giant bookstore, this outlet also has a damn good coffee house and a music store located within the complex. Borders also features lectures and live music. Location: 19925 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-0027.

Kafka’s: All of Kafka’s books are second-hand books, and are therefore sold at a very reasonable price. Kafka’s carries books on pretty much every field of interest: fiction, art, photography, psychology and more. Local and international newspapers and magazines are also available. Plus Kafka’s provides Internet terminals for those who want to browse the net until the late night hours. Snacks also available. Location: 1464 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-9669.

Mindy’s News and Gifts: Providing the public with services like notary public, ATM, phone cards, magazines, newspapers and more. Location: 209 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-8518.

News Café: Sells newspapers and magazines from all over the world right in hip South Beach. Plus, the news is attached to a hip full-service café. Location: 800 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-6397.

Waldenbooks: Best place to let your mind wander – and maybe find a good book when you’re tired of strolling around Aventura Mall. Also has comic books. Location: 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura Mall. Phone: 305-937-1371.

Worldwide News: Has newspapers from all over the country and the world. Also has a very large magazine selection including (Why not? It is 163rd Street) a specialized skin mag section. Now has Internet access, as well as fax, Western Union and notary services. Location: 1629 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-940-4090.

Van Dyke News: Basically the sequel of Mark Soyka’s News Café. Right next door to the Van Dyke. Location: 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3600.

CLOTHING STORES AND ATTIRE SERVICES

Absolutely Suitable: At this modern retailer you’ll find an extensive selection of high-end designer swimsuits for men and women. Location: 1560 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-5281.

Ann Taylor Loft: A more affordable and casual version of the Ann Taylor boutiques offering business, casual and relaxed women’s clothing. Also offers a great petites selection. Location: 1036 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2801.

Anthropologie: High-end imported women’s apparel and creative home furnishings. Location: 1108 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-0775.

Armani Exchange: Getting the fanciest European-style attire doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Get world-renowned Armani quality at a much easier-to-deal-with price. Their jeans, sweaters, T-shirts, outerwear, pants, shirts, skirts, jackets, etc. are designed for a younger crowd of both men and women. Locations: 760 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura Mall. Phone: (Beach) 305-531-5900; (Aventura Mall) 305-682-3602.

Banana Republic: Business and casual clothing for men and women in tailored styles. Location: 1100 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 1-88-BRStyle.

Belinda’s Designs: Specializes in dresses inspired by the Victorian 19th Century era, as well as the 1920s and ‘30s. Dresses are made from silk, Venetian laces, embroidered tulles, antique laces and other fine materials. Perfect for weddings, proms, special occasions and society balls. Location: 917 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0068.

Biker’s Image: For the individual who just has to look like a biker, even if he isn’t. Specializes in Harley Davidson clothes and accessories for men and women. Location: 1560 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8500.

Body Up: This store is perfect for the fashionable fitness fanatic. Body Up sells the latest attire for exercising activities. Location: 704 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9399.

Bubby’s: A boutique fashion store with a range of products including bags, jewelry and accessories. It carries unique pieces you don’t necessarily see elsewhere regionally and is a beautiful place to shop. Fresh items are added constantly, prompting eager clients to drop in routinely to see what’s new. Location: 7441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305- 866-0178.

Caché: Sexy, yet classy. Well made, yet affordable. This women’s boutique offers low neckline and hip hugging styles following the hottest Miami fashion trends. Tops, skirts, elegant dresses and more. Location: 716 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, Phone: 305-672-1224.

Circle Art and Antiques: Owned by Sherna Brody, Circle Art sells antique collectibles, oriental rugs, contemporary furniture and various other eclectic items. Location: 1020 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1859.

Consign of the Times: Designer labels such as Gucci and Prada are affordable, or at least more so than they would be at any other South Beach store with prices ranging from $20 to $5,000. Location: 1635 Jefferson Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-0811.

Debbie Katz South Beach: Sells a designer line of stylish All-American cotton clothing that is comfortable to wear on the Beach or for any other casual occasion. Location: 415 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-3322.

Dolce & Gabbana: These two Italian designers earned international fame by creating a style that is unique unto themselves. Among loyal customers Dolce & Gabbana can count stars like Madonna, Demi Moore, Whitney Houston and other celebs whose niche in life is creating a “fashion” by wearing specific outfits. Now in a larger space within the Bal Harbour Shops. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Unit 134, Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-866-0503.

FCUK: The name actually stands for French Connection-United Kingdom. It’s an international casual clothing chain that is fond of sponsoring elaborate pool tournaments in Great Britain. Log on to ww.frenchconnection.com for more fcuking details. Location: 1026 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-3838.

Flirt Cosmopolitan Clothing: For those who want to look somewhat slutty without having to feel guilty about it. Miss Sixty, Custo Barcelona, Huit Swimwear, Citizens of Humanity, Sweetees, Paper Denim & Cloth are just among the lines Flirt has. Location: 17100 Collins Ave., # 104, Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-944-3533.

Gilda Gevis For Sizes 14 to 34: Unique styling in everything from sportswear to social occasions. Location: 18785 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-931-6692.

I. Strada: This boutique carries high-end Italian designer fashion clothing including names such as Custo Barcelona, Moschino, Jean Paul Gaultier, Dolce & Gabbana, Fabio Xavier, Cavalli, and more. Location: 811 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1123.

Intermix: Showcasing the latest trends from hand-selected designers, Intermix caters to an intelligent, confident woman with a penchant for fashion. Its stylish clientele includes Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz, Chloe Sevigny, Jessica Simpson, Julia Roberts and Jennifer Love Hewitt. Location: 634 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5950.

Judy’s Armoire: In this high-end designer boutique store near the Bal Harbour shops you can find designer dresses, blouses, shoes, purses, and truly unique jewelry pieces. Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu and Gucci are just some of the designers found in Judy’s Armoire. Location: 9484 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-868-3870.

Julian Chang: This up and coming designer has gotten props from celebs like J.Lo and Gloria Estefan. Locations: 6667 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami; Steam on Sunset, Sunset Place, 5840 Sunset Drive, South Miami. Phone: (Miami) 305-751-8900; (Steam on Sunset) 305-669-9991.

La Squadra: Men’s and women’s designer wear and accessories. Location: 753 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-3775.

Levi’s Store: As the name says, this is the place to buy a pair (or two or three) of Levi’s jeans. Location: 826 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-4045.

Made in Miami: Specializes in custom T-shirts. Made in Miami’s T-shirts are carefully and individually hand-embellished, making each one an original and singular masterpiece that its owner will be proud to show off again and again. Location: 2771 Coral Way, Miami. Phone: 305-461-1014.

Mr. B Custom Tailor: A custom tailor specializing in men’s designs and all types of alterations. Location: 7414 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-758-4180.

Post Blue Jeans: Diesel, Adriana Goldsmith, Seven Jeans, Juicy, are just some of the denim and jean brand names found here. Location: 836 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2124.

Quicksilver Boardriders Club: Deals in Quicksilver and Roxy clothing items such as shorts, shirts, bikini tops and bottoms, swim shorts, sandals… Pretty much everything a growing surfer needs. Has a new location on Lincoln Road. Location: 750 Collins Ave., 1000 Block of Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9283.

Rags to Riches Consignment Boutique: Claudia Khatt understands we all need a little retail therapy from time to time. So she started a shop with the latest clothing from Versace, Miu Miu, Chanel, Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo and Fendi, to name a few. Location: 12577 Biscayne Boulevard, North Miami. Phone: 305-891-8981.

Rainbow Shops: Jeans, dresses, T-shirts, tank tops, belts… They’re all here and they’re all going for cheap: $19, $12, even $6. Location: 321 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-0980.

Rara Avis: Offers a wide variety of unique fashion items from linen shorts and skirts to revealing bikinis to party dresses available for less than $100. Other items include handbags, jewelry, underwear, sandals, oils and menswear. Another bonus: much of the inventory is designed by local designers. Location: 730 N.E. 79^th St., Miami. Phone: 305-751-1855.

Urban Outfitters: Outfits from Calvin Klein, Adidas, Diesel, Levi’s, Asics, Vans, Puma and more can be found here. Dr. Scholl’s sandals, novelty t-shirts and tank tops are a biggie here for both men and women. So are the bohemian-trendy clothes – especially the women’s line. Location: 653 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-9726.

Vest dos Elegante Corp.:The place to find discounted brand name Italian clothing. Location: 1676 NE 205th Terrace, Aventura. Phone: 305-999-9008.

Vogue Italia: This boutique sells clothes by the finest Italian designer names in fashion such as Parasuco, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Cavalli, Fendi, Diesel, and Ferre. Location: 513 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9947.

White House Black Market: Find anything white and everything black in this upscale women's clothing boutique. Jewelry and accessories are also available. Location: 1106 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8006.

Whittal and Shon: “Design gorgeous hats with two things every stylish woman likes – a sense of humor and sex appeal” is this store’s motto. And they keep their word. No wonder these hats are seen on the cover of top fashion magazines on a regular basis. Location: 900 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-2606.

DEPARTMENT STORES

Macy’s: The “Florida Store,” this place has handbags, hosiery, housewares, jewelry, clothing, luggage, kitchenware and other items. Location: 1675 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach; 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: (Beach) 305-674-6300; (Aventura) 305-792-6300.

Neiman Marcus: The place for the best in women’s and men’s wear, make-up, perfumes, jewelry and shoes. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-865-6161.

Saks Fifth Avenue: Upscale men’s and women’s attire, gift items, baby wear, precious jewels, hats, and furs. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-865-1100.

DVDS & VIDEOS

Lion Video: This film rental store specializes in movies that are hard-to-find and has an incredible selection of foreign films. Locations: 921 NE 79th St., Miami; 1524 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Coral Gables. Phone: (Miami) 305-756-9196; (Coral Gables) 305-442-6080.

New Concept: With the transition from VHS to DVD complete, they should really update the name to New Concept DVD. The store offers a wide variety of new releases, recent, older, foreign and domestic movies, from rated G to rated X. Trying to find that edgy, indie film that mainstream stores refuse to carry? Probably can find it here. New Concept also carries an assortment of the latest CDs and fashion mags from all over the world. Location: Shoppes at West Avenue, 959 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-1113.

Pleasure Emporium: Features a vast array of videos and DVDs that will satisfy your adult necessities, as well as a monster-large selection of sex toys and accessories to make your life even more exciting than it already is. Best of all, it is open 24 hours a day. Location: 1019 Fifth St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-3311.

Sensations Video: Open 24 hours, this adult store has DVDs for sale and rent, along with a selection of adult toys, novelties, lubricants, lingerie, smoking accessories, magazines and more. Location: 1317 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2330.

FLORISTS & NURSERIES

Abbott Florist: Twenty-five years of experience in a wide variety of floral designs from weddings to just because. Also available: lucky bamboo, bonsai, orchard plants and gourmet or fruit baskets. Location: 1008 71st St., Miami Beach; abbottfloristmaimai.com. Phone: 305-865-9808.

Alton Road Nursery: Specializes in all landscape design matters, including international statuary and pottery, home and business consultations, and exterior and interior maintenance. Well-stocked in aesthetic materials from all over the world to enhance your garden. Location: 1239 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-7939.

America’s Best Service: Everything lawn related: Whether you need residential or commercial landscaping, sprinklers, maintenance, trees and plants, outdoor lighting or water features, ABS has been serving the region since 1989. Web site: www.abstreesandplants.com. Phone: 305-345-6385.

Epicure Florist: Gather ye rosebuds while ye may … or ye lilacs, ye gardenias, ye birds of paradise or even ye unique species of orchid. Whatever flora you might be yearning to find, be sure to look here, because the Epicure Florist specializes in stocking fresh, exotic flowers, as well as creating gorgeous arrangements. Location: 1656 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1861.

Joel’s Floral Design: Has flowers for all occasions and delivers. Location: 1422 N.E. 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-354-2077.

Log Cabin Nursery: A full-service nursery with fresh-cut flowers, a variety of plants, pots and baskets and landscaping services, plus a farmers market, and juice and coffee bars on the premises. The nursery offers delivery services for all orders. A nonprofit organization, Log Cabin employs the differently-abled. Location: 8128 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-993-2008.

Surf Florist & Gifts of Miami Beach & Aventura: The best thing about this company is that you’ll never forget another birthday or anniversary again. They actually call you a week ahead of time to remind you. Phone: 305-865-0433.

White Tulip: Now in a new location, White Tulip continues its tradition of offering customers lush, imported plants and flowers and naturally themed designs comprised of palm trees, coconuts, peonies, roses, and Calla Lilly tulips. Location: 1673 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-9444.

FURNITURE & HOME ACCESSORIES

Agora Inc.: A dream for interior decorators, this store is a very unique find, offering affordable home accessories and gifts from all over the world. Location: 640 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5589.

Antique Oriental Rug Buyers: Sells and buys all manner of oriental rugs. Location: 1490 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-374-3976.

Ascot Teak Furniture: This store’s furnishings are constructed for optimum strength and durability. Respecting tradition, you’ll find that original Ascot designs, made with genuine teak, have been adapted to today’s lifestyle. Location: 12951 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-892-2131.

B Home Design: Home and office furniture for cutting-edge, modern interior designs. Location: 3898 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-576-0809.

Barstools To Go: The largest selection of barstools in stock in South Florida, and if its not here the management will be happy to place a special order for you. They also ship their stools anywhere. Location: 15532 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-1404.

Biscayne Marble & Granite: This wholesale importer and supplier for the past 10 years has recently opened a retail showroom in the former location of Tile by Universal. Travertine, marble, granite, onyx and slate tiles as well as a fine selection of terrazzo, glass tiles, travertine pavers and stone vessels are on display and custom countertop fabrication is available. Location: 880 N.E. 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-758-7778

Blue Source Furniture: Plenty of furniture for bedrooms, living room, dining room and the outdoors. Log on to www.bluesourcefurniture.com for more details or products. Location: 282 N.W. 36 Street, Miami. Phone: 305-573-8050.

Casa Solares: Cesar Solares’ store features ceramics, blown glass, wood furniture, lamps, leather products, paintings and icons from Guatemala. Location: 8201 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-758-5292.

Charlotte’s Antiques/Plexi House: Where else can you shop for a wide array of sculptures and paintings while looking to get glass installed and cut for marine, industrial or residential purposes but this Design District storefront? Location: 3900 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-576-9991.

Design Benedict USA: Having itself a moving sale where uniquely designed furniture and art are between 50 and 80 percent off.. Location: 54 N.E. 40^th Street, Miami. Phone: 305-576-6620. Phone: www.designbenedictusa.com.

Evans: Pieces are gathered from all over the world including furniture, chandeliers, porcelain, Art Deco items, art glass, ivory and more. Evans’ staff provides fair and accurate appraisals, and they also buy art. Location: 9560 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-867-7015.

Faith Oriental Rug: Not only do the operators of Faith buy and sell antique and custom rugs, but they also provide cleaning and restoration, repairs and padding replacement for rugs as well as free consultation on what rugs will work best. Location: 18837 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-692-1940.

GLO Vintage Modern Antiques: Do your antiquing here from noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Location: 5050 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-758-2727.

Imagination Unlimited: Specializes in Georg Jensen and other Danish silver. Will buy jewelry, flatware, serving pieces and hollowware. Location: 4302 Alton Road, Suite 820, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2214.

Industrian: Sells antiques and new design and vintage mid-century modern furniture and home accessories, lamps, handbags, radios, candles and other types of gift items. Location: 5580 N.E. Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-754-6070.

Jeffrey Lamb, Home: Miami Beach's premier center for furniture, home accessories, gifts and interior decoration. Visit our retail showroom and design office located in North Beach. Space planning and interior decoration for any size project. Licensed contractors available for all renovation needs. Custom furniture, window treatments and upholstery. Location: 956 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-0747.

Lights4U: Has every form of light fixture in stock including table lamps, floor lamps and chandeliers. Other, less luminous, pieces of furniture can be found here as well. Location: 16111 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-1222.

Lincoln Furniture and Lighting: Deals in unique yet affordable furniture and has the widest selection of creative lighting fixtures to be found in South Beach. As one store clerk describes: “Very contemporary, very funky, very different.” Location: 629 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-2865.

Loft Sofas: They have a variety of Sofas in stock for immediate delivery to you in multiple colors and styles. And they offer sofas at the lowest prices in Florida. These are factory direct prices.  They are each available in multiples colors. Location: 1747 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone: 786-228-8981.

Lunatika: This is one bright idea of a store: Dedicated to all forms of lighting, Lunatika’s showroom features a creative and functional assortment of light fixtures, lamps, fans and clocks, not to mention helpful staff with design knowledge to help you with your decisions. Location: 1562 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-8585.

Luv My Kitchens: Efrain Machado is an architect and designer who has found his top love: designing kitchens and bath cabinetry. Approaching each project like a new building, Machado will design your kitchen by computer if necessary. He also only works with the best plumbing and electrical contractors. Location: 327 W. 47 St., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-9990.

Mattress Town: This bedding and furniture store on Alton Road is the only place in town where you can get a bed shaped like a heart, star or even Elvis Presley. Mattress Town’s factory creates handmade, customized headboards and mattresses, so they can provide any bedding style desired. Also has a wide range of contemporary furniture like originally designed dining sets, couches and lamps. Location: 1610 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305 531-1452.

Metropolitan Blinds & Shades: Metropolitan Blinds offers the ideal blind or shade to supply a unique touch to your décor. Offers everything from see through fabrics for roller shades to sheers and natural fibers all to create blinds that compliment your distinctive surroundings. Location: 3483 Chase Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-287-8095. Web site: http://metropolitanblinds.com.

Milan Kitchens: Milan Kitchens are imported from Brazil by a manufacturer rated #1 in South America. They specialize in design and supply certified products in all the stages of the process. They also guarantee the lowest prices for their European-style kitchens, built for comfort and practicality. Log on to www.milankitchens.com for more details. Location: 4612 N.W. 74th Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-343-0001

Minar: Deals in furniture, oriental rugs, pottery and lamps. Also specializes in interior design for residences and nightclubs. Location: 6667 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-757-2775.

Natural Furniture and Design: Offers high-end, imported furniture at reasonable prices. Along with the contemporary furniture, Natural Furniture and Design also provides its decorating customers a complimentary consultation with an interior designer who will come to your home or office to check out the space. They have been decorating homes and offices all over Miami. Location: 10990 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-899-2744.

Office Furniture Outlet: 20,000 square feet of mostly preowned office furniture. Open Monday to Saturday. Location: 1405 South 30th Ave., Hollywood. Phone: 954-926-7777.

Passage to India: Authentic crafts, jewelry, clothes, gifts and more straight from India. Location: 1143 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-6077

Sandola Furniture and More: The place to find all your furniture needs, especially if you live in North Beach. Be it a bed, a computer stand, a chair, a table, a lamp, a sofa, or a stool, Sandola has it — and more. Location: 1112 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-7778.

Sharron Lewis Upholstery Center: Services include furniture reupholstery, building furniture from scratch and even upholstering seats for boats and cars. Location: 250 NE 61st St., Miami. Phone: 305-751-1730. Web site: www.sharronlewis.com.

Showcase Antique & Collectibles: With more than 25 years’ experience in estates and contents, they will buy anything you can imagine, from boxing items to trains to Hummel. They will even make house calls to tell you whether your trash is treasure. Phone: 305-300-0195.

South Beach Style: Owned by Dan Bowman, South Beach Style has long been respected as the place to equip your bedroom with everything from night tables, dressers and bed-sets to 100 percent natural fiber sheets imported from all over the world. Location: 1674 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-8277.

Spazio: This is a design home furnishing store that sells upscale European contemporary sophisticated furniture and home furnishing articles. Location: 14700 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-0800.

Tile by Universal: Porcellanato tile, Italian tile and marble wholesale distributors and contractors. They do installations and slab fabrication for complete remodeling both residential and commercial. Location: 6650 N.E. Fourth Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-754-7737.

HARDWARE STORES & RELATED SERVICES 

Ace Hardware: Place to get hardware, paints, tools, plumbing supplies, lawn and garden stuff, and electrical things. Location: 1668 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7070.

Advance Hardware: The North Miami Beach source for hardware, auto and gardening supplies. Location: 1991 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-949-7264.

American Plumbing and Electrical Supply: Plumbing, electrical supplies, faucet parts, thread water heaters, bulbs, lumber, building materials, etc. Location: 1735 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-3446.

Atlantic Awnings: Choose from hundreds of styles and colors for either commercial or residential locations. Atlantic Awnings has over 13 years of experience serving South Florida. They also perform recovery and repairs on existing awnings. Call for a free estimate. Location: 12334 SW 131^st Avenue, Miami. Phone: 305-229-0555.

Centeno Doors: Specialing in custom made and hurricane approved doors, windows, moldings and impact glass this venue is a variable one-stop shop for safety, especially with busy hurricane seasons in our future. Location: 3773 Bird Road, Miami. Phone: 305-529-9297.

Central Ace Hardware: Every inch of the 10,000 square feet that makes up Central Ace Hardware Store is crammed with the store’s wide assortment of electronics, school supplies, paint samples, home accessories such as potpourri, candles, and throw pillows, plumbing supplies, and of course, tools. Big paint, lawn and vacuum cleaner section. Location: 545 Arthur Godfrey Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-0836.

ClimaCon: Full-service air conditioning company. Mechanical and general contracting available. Location: 4238 S.W. 75th Ave., Miami. Phone: 786-344-3244.

Floors for Less: Installation services and a wide variety of wood flooring materials starting from $4 per square foot installed and up. Free estimates and a free interior design consultation with order. Location: 2300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-271-5287.

L.A. Hardware Inc.: This hardware store is going out of business. But the good news for customers is that there is a liquidation sale going on and all merchandise is 50 percent off through February 2006. Location: 2795 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9205.

Metropolitan Blinds & Shades: Has a large selection of high-quality window coverings and professional consultants who’ll help you choose the right ones to define your home’s character. Only the best materials, from see-through styles to natural fibers, are used in the most contemporary designs — roller shades, bamboo, sliding panels, vertical blinds and more. Metro’s expert staff also does in-home demonstrations at your convenience, and can then oversee the production, delivery and installation of your window coverings. Location: 3483 Chase Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-287-8095. Web site: www.metropolitanblinds.com.

Peter's Doors: Complete line of discount interior/exterior doors and hardware. Location: 800 N.E. 36th St., Miami. Phone: 305-637-8658.

Washington Hardware: Everything you could ever want for doing work around the house can be found here, from gardening and plumbing tools to all kinds of painting and carpentry accessories. Location: 1349 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-3969.

JEWELRY

Art Connection: Decorate yourself with steel titanium, silver and custom jewelry pieces mostly coming from Europe. Art connections owner Gabriella was in business for more than 30 years in Switzerland before bringing her business to Miami six years ago. Apart from importing pieces for men and women she also designs them as well. Location: 100 16th St., South Beach. Phone: 305-604-0603. Web site: www.artconnectionmiami.com.

Balogh Outlet: In business for over 50 years. Offers 20 percent to 45 percent off list price on estates, fine jewelry, arts, crystal china, silver, porcelain, Judaica and more. Brand names include Lalique, Baccarat, Herend, Rosenthal, Georg Jensen, Doulton, Lenox, Waterford, Minton, Tiffany, Rolex, Cartier, Piaget and Patek Phillipe. Provides services such as jewelry manufacturing, special orders, repairs, appraisals and watch repairs. Location: 449 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-0087.

Bulgari: Based in Italy, Bulgari as an entity has been making jewelry since the 19th century. In recent times, Bulgari jewelers have perfected the craft of turning 18K gold, white gold, platinum, and precious gems into works of art. Their watch line is also extremely popular. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour Shops, Suite 118. Phone: 305-861-8898.

Carroll’s Jewelers: Has in stock such jewelry lines like Hidalgo, Tacori, Barry Kronen and Simon G. as well as a talented team of jewelry repair. Carroll’s also known for its bridal registry and specialty gifts and its fine silver, china and crystal inventory. For details log on to  Location: 365 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-446-1611. Web site: www.carrollsjewelers.com.

Cartier: Responsible for some of the most beautiful gem designs, jewelry and, most notably, watches. The success of Cartier may lie in the company’s ability to remain true to its quality and elegance while adding to the successful formula with a twist of modernity. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Suite 143 Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-864-8793.

Fast Jewelry: Gold and silver jewelry. Watch and jewelry repair also available. Location: 707 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-9493.

Gables Pawn & Jewelry: If you need fast money, hocking your bling may seem like the only way. Gables Pawn and Jewelry promises to make the parting as painless as possible. Or, if you have the cash and are looking to spend it on some nice ice like Cartier and Bulgari, these folks can help you as well. There’s a watchmaker and diamond expert on hand to help you with your purchase. Location: 1734 S.W. 57th Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-262-6020.

Goldtime: Brand-name watches, fine jewelry and repairs. Location: 531 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-8897.

Heart and Soul Jewelry: Wide selection of jewelry in sterling silver and stainless steel from Italy, Bali and Mexico and a complete gift shop with all kinds of accessories from mirrors and picture frames to boxes, cards and incense. Location: 411 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-2775.

King’s Jeweler’s: Established in 1912, King’s Jewelers is a fifth generation family-owned and operated jewelry company that manufactures and designs fine jewelry. Items include gems and “fancy color” diamonds, sterling silver, European watches and modern and estate collections. Location: 18265 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-865-2700.

Mayor’s: Renowned for its precious jewelry and watches from all over the world. Location: 1000 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-672-1662; (Aventura) 305-937-1444.

Miami Beach Watch Repair: For about a quarter of a century, Sonny Dewan has been fixing high-end and rare watches. Scarce parts don’t intimidate him: He has the machinery and expertise to forge new parts if necessary. But if you are interested in a brand spanking new watch, or in selling yours, give Dewan a call. He might be able to accommodate you. Phone: 305-673-6533.

Millennium Jewelry: Jewelry Exchange carries virtually every brand that makes sunglasses such as Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Cartier, Montblanc and Oakley. Best of all, the sunglasses are sold at reasonable prices. Location: 521 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-2444.

Swatch: This small boutique in the heart of Lincoln Road carries wrist jewelry from metal, to plastic, and Scuba bands modeled after the funky makes of the 1980s. Location: 947 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6944.

TeNo: For the individual looking for innovative, contemporary style, with futuristic fashion, this store carries jewelry with an edge in stainless steel and titanium. Location: 831 Lincoln Road., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-7588.

LINGERIE, SWIMWEAR AND ADULT STORES

Deja Vu Love Boutique: Near the hustle and bustle of tourist-crushed Ocean Drive spots like Wet Willie’s, here’s a little retail haven filled with massage oils, lingerie, apparel, candles, toys, lotions, erotica, DVDs and other stuff to keep up the party. Location: 1011 Fifth St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9669.

Hustler Hollywood: For anyone looking to spice up their relationship, this is definitely the place for you. With so many choices, Hustler offers apparel, souvenirs, lingerie and gifts. Location: 1234 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5369.

La Perla: Laces, silk and satin are just some of the materials that make up the incredibly designed women’s undergarments found at La Perla. Location: 342 San Lorenzo Ave., Suite 1020, Village of Merrick Park, Coral Gables. Phone: 305- 448-8805.

Paradise Found: The department store for everything beach-related. Location: 200 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-4601.

Rosa Cha: This store specializes in stylish Brazilian swimsuits for women, thus creating a trend and flavor in South Beach. Location: 830 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7883.

Scoop: Bathing suits, cover-ups, drawstring pants and tunics will bring out the real summer you. Finally, you get a chance to leave the boring stuff in the closet, where it belongs. Location: 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5929.

Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Lingerie: Following the European model, Victoria's Secret Beauty encourages customers to pamper and self-indulge themselves. It’s no secret that Victoria’s Secret’s mission is to make female clientele feel sexy and to help them reveal their femininity. Location: 901 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: (Beach) 305-695-1814; (Aventura) 305-705-0305.

LIQUOR STORES

Crown Wine & Spirit: Very few places can equal their gourmet selection of wine. They have the largest selection of German wines in the area (nearly 30 different brands). Fine Bordeaux, Cabernets, Chardonnays, Burgundies from Italy, France, Chile and Australia can also be found here as well as an incredible selection of gourmet, imported cheeses, pâtés and caviars. Crown Wine & Spirits offers discounts on cases. The discount still applies if you want to mix-and-match. Location: 12555 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-892-9463.

Gulf Liquors: Gigantic selection of beer, wine and kegs as well as all forms of potent liquors: rum, vodka, gin, whiskey, etc. Employees are fluent in English and Spanish and prices for liquor are quite affordable. Location: 1681 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5551.

House of Wine & Liquors: Whole new meaning to the term “gift baskets and more.” Offers free delivery. House of Wine & Liquors is open until 1 a.m. seven days a week. During special events HW&L is open until 3 a.m. Location: 330 S.E. First St., Miami. Phone: 305-533-9898.

M.B. Liquors: Sometimes you just want a bottle of vodka or a six-pack of Guinness without having to walk outside of your home or deal with strangers. Fortunately, M.B. delivers. Better yet, it has free delivery service and there is no minimum charge. Location: 814 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8300.

Portofino Wine Bank: Carries fine wines and liquors from across the globe. With a full line of champagne and distinctive wine selections from countries such as Spain, Argentina, Chile, France, and New Zealand, this store is the best place to visit for the perfect details of entertaining. Location: 500 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1988.

Ruben’s Liquors Delivery: Door-to-door free delivery of liquor offered at various times daily. Location: 1000 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-5976.

So-Be Liquors Boutique: Has a comprehensive selection of vodka, whiskey, bourbon, brandy, wine, beer and any other form of liquor that can create a buzz or bring you into another plane of existence. Free delivery services available. Location: 1609 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-1212.

Sunny Isles Liquor: The management of this shop prides itself in having the widest selection of alcohol choices in Sunny Isles Beach – beer, wine, vodka, cognac, etc. – and on being one of the few liquor places in S.I.B. allowed to operate on Sunday. But its real claim to fame is its delivery service. Location: 18180 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-932-5782.

Volpe Liquors: A great collection of liquors, wines and spirits, often at better-than-average prices. Whether you’re looking for a knock-your-socks-off bottle of Bordeaux or a cheap version that tastes just as good, you’ll probably find it here. Location: 1631 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0809.

MARKETS

Aventura Mall Farmers Market: Taking place in the mall’s Center Court Fountain Area on Saturday and Sunday, the several dozen vendors of this market offer natural fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants, bonsai, bread and baked goods, tropical juices, smoothies, candies, quality crafts, incense and potpourri. Plus 11 tropical flavors of jams and jellies from Miami Beach Delicious. Location: 19505 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura Mall. Phone: 305-531-0038.

B.E. Kosher Grocery Store: Cholov Yisroel dairy products, glatt kosher meat, poultry, fish and kosher wines are among the products on stock. Location: 1436 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7060.

Bay Harbor Fine Food Market: Founded in 1958, this grocery has impressed the entire region with its wide selection of deli products, gourmet food items, fresh produce and hard-to-find condiments. And from Northeast Miami-Dade to Southeast Broward, Bay Harbor Fine Food will actually deliver to your doorstep. Location: 1077 95th St., Bay Harbor Islands. Phone: 305-865-0331.

Epicure Gourmet Market & Café: Want to impress your friends or a potential mate with a home-cooked meal? Then don’t settle for ordinary: Go gourmet. Epicure’s shelves are stocked with the finest prepared foods, be they sirloin steak or teriyaki sauce, potato chips or spices. Gourmet is the operative word at the deli, bakery and comfortable café. Location: 1656 Alton Road (between Lincoln Road and 17th Street), Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1861.

Food Giant Supermarket: The supermarket for North Bay Villagers to get produce, meat, canned goods, cleaning supplies, etc. Location: 1600 N.E. 79th St. Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-865-8055.

Fresh Market: This quality food store focuses on perishables: fruit, veggies, meat, seafood, cheese and any other edibles that spoil with time (Christmas fruitcake need not apply). Of course, the operative word here is fresh, and this market delivers. Location: 18299 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura; 2640 S. Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove. Phone: 305-466-1786 (Aventura); 305-854-7202 (Coconut Grove).

Hess Express: The convenience store to get your fast needed items, gasoline and also Blimpie Subs and Salads and Godfather’s Pizza. Location: 1508 79th St. Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-868-3747

Japanese Market: Offers many traditional and specialty foods for Japanese cooking and living and even Japanese cosmetics and ceramics and a variety of sakes. There is also a deli featuring sushi and hot platters. Location: 1412 79th St. Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-861-0143

Market Company: Owned and operated by Claire Tomlin, the Market Company operates market events at Lincoln Road, Española Way, Normandy Isle, Aventura Mall and now Downtown Miami. Location: 428 Espanola Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-0038.

Mister Pasta: Stepping into the store makes one feel as if you are entering the “old country.” Makes every kind of pasta right there in the store. Products are gourmet, with top shelf ingredients. Pasta items for sale are available at wholesale and retail. Location: 7311 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-8020.

Publix: The all-purpose supermarket. Besides food items, Publix is also well known as a purveyor of cleaning products, cold remedies and other must-have goods. But, around these parts, we instinctively go to Publix whenever we need to stock up on cold cuts, steaks, chickens, fruits, vegetables, beer, wine, canned goods, and anything else having to do with sustenance. Location: North Beach: 6876 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; Dade Boulevard: 1045 Dade Blvd., Miami Beach; Publix on the Bay, 1920 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (North Beach) 305-865-8561; (Dade Boulevard) 305-534-4621; (Publix on the Bay) 305-535-4268.

Publix-North: A listing of where the markets are located on the mainland. Locations: 2952 Aventura Blvd., Aventura; 18330 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach; 1700 N.E. Miami Gardens Drive, North Miami Beach. Phone: (Boulevard) 305-931-4810, (Sunny Isles) 305-931-9615, (NMB) 305-945-7119.

Wild Oats: Preservatives, MSG, meat laced with hormones or vegetation sprayed with chemicals won’t be found at this supermarket. What you will find at Wild Oats: entire sections devoted to herbal supplements, anti-oxidants, vitamins, and other holistic remedies. There is also a fresh meat and produce section and, for those who want take-out, a gourmet salad bar, fresh health pizza, and a homemade soup section. Location: 1020 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1707.

MUSIC

Grooveman: A paradise for local DJs, Grooveman has everything from headphones and turntables to CD cases and all the accessories a true music “connoisseur” could ever wish for. Grooveman also carries a huge variety of vinyl. Location: 1543 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-6257.

Sobe Music Center: Offers World Class Conservatory Level Instruction in all Instruments, Voices and Composition. They are now accepting Private Students of all Ages and Levels for 2006 – 2007. They also offer group workshops and classes for children and adults. Location: 571 Euclid Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9220.

Uncle Sam’s: Offers an extensive variety of new, old-time-favorites and used CD’s, DVD’s and vinyl. Used CD’s and DVD’s are priced as low as $7.95. Location: 1141 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0973. 

PET STORES, SUPPLIES AND SERVICES

Amazonas Dog Spa Inc.: Using an original line of dog shampoo made from natural ingredients from the Brazilian rain forest, Amazonas offers professional grooming for dogs and cats as well as day care and boarding where each dog has its own individual house. Location: 1040 Normandy 71st St., Suite 100, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-9292.

Atlantis Pet Shop: Birds, dogs, cats, fish and pet supplies, too. Location: 215 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-5477.

Dog Bar: The Dog Bar is a store that features some of the best canine health and food products you can find in the Greater Miami Beach area. And for those who just feel the need to dress up their four-legged friend, the Dog Bar has some out-of-the-ordinary accessories that will turn heads when you walk down the street with your pet. Location: 1684 Jefferson Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5654.

4 Paws Only: Features a holistic approach to pet care with a complete line of pet supplies and grooming on the premises, food, day care and accessories. Location: 742 N.E. 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-756-0200.

John’s Pet Shop: “Many Miami Beach apartments don’t allow cats or dogs,” storeowner John Luna says. Therefore, he is prepared to introduce to Beach residents his wide assortment of “alternative” pets such as fish, birds, reptiles, ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, and fish. John’s Pet Store also sells bilingual books on pet care and pet supplies such as food, toys, and grooming tools. Location: 1618 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6910.

Paws 4 You Rescue: A non-profit corporation that seeks to save abandoned pets from euthanasia, providing them the necessary treatments and finding them new homes. Phone: 786-242-7377. Web site: www.paws4you.org.

Pet Supermarket: Considers itself a “superstore” to find food, toys, vitamins, beds, cages, aquariums, books and medicines for and about pets. Location: 12533 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-892-0526.

Snakes at Sunset: There are those who prefer the mammalian, fuzzy sort of pet, the feathery bird in a cage or the scaly fish in a bowl. And then there are those who like their animals scaled and of the reptilian sort. For them there’s Snakes at Sunrise, a store that specializes in reptiles of all kinds. Not exotic enough? They’ve also got arachnids and amphibians. Location: 9763 Sunset Drive, South Miami. Phone: 305-757-6253.

Some Things Fishy: Specializes in fresh and saltwater fish (both exotic and coral) and custom aquarium systems. Location: 708 N.E. 125th St., North Miami. Phone: 305-891-0055.

PHARMACIES AND NUTRITION

Aly’s Communication Inc.: Sells cellular services, accessories, and devices such as un-locked tri-band cellular phones and T-Mobile, Cingular Wireless, or Sprint PCS. Location: 1560 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7466.

Budget Drugs: Discount prescriptions and fast, friendly service. Location: 1824 N.E. Miami Gardens Drive, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-945-1485.

CVS Pharmacy: Corporate empire known for dispensing prescription drugs, film processing, needed goods, etc. Location: 615 Fifth St.; 1421 Alton Road; 2235 Collins Ave.; 7400 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (Fifth Street) 305-673-4149; (Alton) 305-538-1571; (2235 Collins) 305-673-9514; (7400 Collins) 305-865-8690.

CVS Pharmacy—North: Some locations in the North Miami Beach, Aventura area. Location: 2974 Aventura Blvd., Aventura;1825 N.E. 185th St., NMB; 16850 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: (Aventura Boulevard) 305-932-2802; (NMB) 305-931-0202; (Sunny Isles) 305-945-4712.

Lee-Anne Pharmacy: Instead of what can you find here, the question should be, what can’t you find here? The aisles of Lee-Anne Pharmacy are jam-packed with virtually anything you might need, from the medical and medicinal to the mundane (tourist knick-knacks, anyone?). Location: 955 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1256.

Locatel Health & Wellness: This pharmacy offers the usual medical equipment, healthcare items and personal care products, not to mention, electronics and even a juice bar. Location: 1713 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale Beach. Phone: 954-454-8144.

Midtown Pharmacy: An institution in Mid-Beach for decades, Mid-Town offers an intimate, friendly atmosphere for customers that is sometimes lost with its corporate rivals. Location: 753 Arthur Godfrey Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5816.

NPC Vitamin Store: Vitamins and other health supplies. Location: 631 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8844.

Publix on the Bay: Not just groceries and cleaning supplies here. Publix on the Bay is home to a full-fledged pharmacy that has competitive prices, free blood pressure checks, medical expense summaries, etc. Location: 1920 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-4274.

Statscript Pharmacy: Offers old-fashioned customer service with a modern atmosphere. They specialize in chronic diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C with a full-service pharmacy. Also has in stock a wide variety of nutritional supplements and some basic drugstore items such as sun tan lotion. Although a national chain, this location caters to its Beach clientele. Location: 1669 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-1980.

Treasure Island Pharmacy: A full-service retail pharmacy, Treasure Island offers free delivery and most insurance is accepted as well as Medicaid and Medicare. Location: 1630 79th St. Causeway, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-6144.

Walgreens: Get prescriptions filled 24 hours a day. You can also get anything that comes to mind in one convenient stop: beachwear, lotion, makeup, snacks, electronic equipment, perfume, household supplies, magazines, condoms – you can even get your pictures developed while you shop or wait for your prescribed drugs. Location: 1845 Alton Road, 100 Lincoln Road, 524 Jefferson Ave., 6700 Collins Ave., 4049 Pine Tree Drive, 7340 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (Alton) 305- 531-9922; (Lincoln) 305-532-8166; (Jefferson) 305-531-2789; (67th and Collins) 305-861-6103; (Pine Tree) 305-535-8836; (73rd and Collins) 305-864-8675.

Walgreens Aventura: Similar to the above, but in Aventura. Location: 3007 Aventura Blvd., Aventura; 18665 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: (Aventura Boulevard) 305-936-2483; (Biscayne) 305-466-3622.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

All Dade Bail Bonds: For when you don’t have the ability to shop around. All Dade Bail Bonds offers 24-Hour bail bonds for nationwide federal and state offenses. Location: 1626 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1124.

Alten Group: A marketing-focused graphic design firm that specializes in creative services for print and digital media. Location: 10 N.W. Le Jeune Road, Suite 310, Miami. Phone: 305-893-8858.

Apple Organization: In business for more than 25 years, the Apple Organization is comprised of talented account managers, media relations specialists and creative copywriters under the direction of agency CEO Phyllis Apple and president Angel Langston, who capitalize on their long-standing local, national and international press contacts to secure major media coverage. For details log on to www.appleorg.com. Location: 17840 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-937-1581.

Art Deco Welcome Center: This is the best place to get walking tours of Miami Beach, especially of the Historic Art Deco architecture. The Center also has a nice little gift shop in which they sell Art Deco posters, books about Miami Beach, souvenirs, antiques and more. Location: 1001 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-3484.

Atlantic Broadband: Has deals for cable and Internet, service. Location: 1681 Kennedy Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-861-1564. Web site: www.atlanticbb.com.

Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center: Founded in 1976 as a model synagogue to serve Aventura, and surrounding areas. Offers a variety of groups and programs including our Adult Education and Lecture Series, a Cultural Series, a Performing Arts Committee which nourishes the bonds of Jewish tradition through monthly family services, family Shabbat dinners and holiday programs. Location: 20400 N.E. 30th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-0666.

Avery Glass & Mirror: Hurricane-impact windows, mirrored walls, tabletops, painted glass backsplashes, storefronts, windows, bullet-resistant acrylic — Avery Glass & Mirror does it all. But where they really excel is in installing frameless showers and shower enclosures. Location: 813 N.E. 125th St., North Miami. Phone: 305-891-7734. Web site: www.averyglass.com.

Ayuda Foundation:“Kids are the future of the city and the nation. Without them, there are no smiles.” That is the motto that drives the Ayuda Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting children of low-income, working-class families in Miami-Dade County. Since 1977, Ayuda has provided psychological, educational, rehabilitative and medical well-being programs, as well as educational scholarships, language development and translation services to multicultural families in need. Location: 7118 Byron Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-2273.

Banyan Life Financial: Managing wealth means being able to provide for family members after passing on, according to the folks at Banyan Life Financial. Using their estate planning skills, Banyan Life eliminates exposure on loans and arranges that life insurance pays the inheritance tax, thus ensuring all assets are inherited by the family. Location: 1691 Michigan Ave., Suite 310, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8052. Web site: www.banyanlife.com

Berber Trading Company: If you’ve ever wondered how wild Middle Eastern parties are created with such authenticity, look no further than the Berber Trading Company. Name your Moroccan fantasy — Arabian Nights, African Safari, etc. — and the friendly and helpful staff at Berber will ably provide the DJ and décor (and can recommend caterers). Looking for more than a one-night event? Berber also has a wide variety of Moroccan furnishings and home accessories for sale. Location: 2622 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-256-7654. Web site: www.berbertrading.com.

Blue Daisy Media: Blue Daisy Media specializes in finding media outlets that best suit their clients’ needs, be they developers, public relations firms, advertising companies or other businesses. Location: 2906 South Douglas Road, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-442-4229. Web site: bluedaisymedia.com.

Cakov Group Language Solutions, Inc.: The group is fully dedicated to delivering top-quality expert translations, interpretations, language instruction, and transcription services to corporate clients and professionals. They know today’s global marketplace offers more choices than ever. Their network of expert consultants has met the exacting requirements of our clients throughout the United States, Latin America, Europe, Canada, and the Middle East. Location: 1801 S.W. 3rd Avenue, Suite 400-B, Miami. Phone: 305-854-8181.

Commercial Bank of Florida: A general commercial bank with 14 branches in Miami-Dade County and Broward. Location: 1550 S.W. 57th Avenue, Miami. Phone: 305-267-1200.

CuisineWorks: Founded in 2005 by Executive Chef Simon Stantic, CuisineWorks offers innovative hors d’oeuvres featured on steaming trays, lit acrylic or mini TV-screens. These mouthful bites strike you with their look and taste, leaving a long-lasting, multisensory impression. CuisineWorks has sleek and stylish acrylic bars and furniture available for rental. Location: 9424 Abbott Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-794-8860.

David Treece Financial Group, Inc.: Their comprehensive analysis of your investments includes expenses you are paying, a risk and reward scatter plot to make sure you are being compensated for any risks you are taking, and a “correlation” chart to show you how your accounts move together. Location: 9999 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-751-8855.

Discount Travel Agency: Hotel accommodations, rental, money exchange and discounts up to 50 percent. Location: 1800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3094.

Donner Law Firm: Concentrating in marital and family counseling, environmental and land use advocacy, real property, construction, civil and administrative litigation, managing member Jeffrey Donner handles each case hands-on, without the intervention of legal assistants or paralegals. Location: 19 W. Flagler St., Suite 907, Miami. Phone: 305-502-2062. Web site: www.donnerlawfirm.com

East Coast Public Adjusters: An expert authority on claims adjustment, East Coast Public Adjusters’ mission is to ensure that clients receive proper compensation for their insurance losses. Among their clients are Burger King, McDonald’s, Texaco and Baptist Hospital. Location: 224 Palermo Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-441-0882. Web site: www.eastcoastadjusters.com.

Financial Advisors Network: The Financial Advisors Network (TFAN) is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) with the State of Florida committed to the welfare and personal success of their clients. Location: 1395 Brickell Ave, 8th Floor, Miami. Phone: 305-577-7775.

Fleshtone Miami, Inc.: Professional photo lab with high quality lab services that use Diapositive, CYMK, and Bond Street Print Lab. They do film processing, color contacts/proof sheets, color prints, and offer pick-up and delivery service, as well as online service. They sell a complete line of professional film bought only directly from the manufacturer. Location: 280 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4202.

Florida Elder Law: Jacqueline Schneider obtained her Juris Doctor Degree from Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad Law Center and has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1996. She is an elder law attorney whose firm offers services in elder law, estate planning, Medicaid and long-term care planning, probate, planning for incapacity and guardianship. Location: 13899 Biscayne Blvd., #204, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-919-7730.

Florida Yacht Charters & Sales Inc.: Linda Levy Goldberg is a licensed yacht salesman who can help you sell, buy or charter the vessel of your dreams, whether it is new, pre-owned, power or sail. Phone: 305-613-5142.

Gordon Reyes & Co: A public relations firm that creates communications, marketing, public affairs and business development programs to meet specific organizational needs and focus on specific targeted, fixed-term programs that allow us to do exactly what the client wants, for as long as they want. Location: 150 S.E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 1302, Miami. Phone: 305-381-8831. Web site: www.gordonreyes.com.

Greenberg Traurig: The marketplace has a tendency to change—particularly real estate. Thus Greenberg Traurig has a team of 1,600 talented lawyers in 29 locations around this planet Earth. Location (Miami): 1221 Brickell Avenue, Miami. Phone: 305-579-0500. 

Happy Kids Childcare and School: Offers programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and after-schoolers. Has an accredited school and after-school program with bachelor’s- and masters-degreed staff. Location: 7118 Byron Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-6362.

L&L International LTD: Specializes in private jet sales and acquisitions. Helpful staff are available every step of the way for clients buying or selling an aircraft. Location: 5400 N.E. 4^th Court, Miami. Phone: 305-754-3313.

Liberty Tax Service: Learn a new skill by attending Liberty’s free tax school. It will teach you how to prepare your individual tax returns. Phone: 305-672-6773.

Mathnasium: The self-cleared “Math Learning Center” seeks to teach kids between the grades of 2 and 12 math in a way that makes sense. Log on to www.mathnasium.com for details. Location: 9069 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 1-866-458-MATH.

MiamiBeach411.com: A community Web site that provides advice, support and the latest news about Miami, Miami Beach and nearby cities. Location: 1521 Alton Road, Suite 233, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-754-2206. Web site: www.miamibeach411.com.

Miami Beach Locksmith: The shop to go to when you need to buy a lock, a security system or to have a key made. Also the place to call if you look yourself out of your house or car... Miami Beach Locksmith offers residential, commercial and automotive services. Location: 709 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-5250.

Miami Seaquarium: Sea lions and tiger sharks but no bears, oh my! Since 1955, the Miami Seaquarium has provided South Florida with the opportunity to witness and learn about underwater life up-close … even hands-on. Feel like swimming with dolphins? Just make an appointment, and you’ll soon be splashing around with these bottlenosed beauties. Location: 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne. Phone: 305-361-5705. Web site: www.miamiseaquarium.com.

Michael G. Ellis: Handles tax return preparation, accounting and bookkeeping, financial statements, QuickBooks service consultations, QuickBooks set-up and installation, IRS representation, foreign investments, foreign real estate, new business start-up, general accounting. Location: 11900 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 106, Miami. Phone: 305-895-2100.

Ocean Bank: One of the largest independent commercial banks headquartered in Florida, Ocean Bank was chartered in 1982 and operates a network of branches throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Location: (Main office) 780 N.W. 42nd Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-442-2660.

Painting Chicks: This Miami Beach-based business creates murals, wall treatments, stenciling, faux metals, faux stone, faux wood, fine art restoration, wood repair and refinishing, mosaics, and general painting. Phone: 305- 450-2033. Web site: www.paintingchicks.com for details.

Residential Air Conditioning Corp: Residential Air Conditioning offers customized cooling and heating systems for your home or office, assessing your individual needs and designing an economical system that will keep you comfortable all year long. With more than 34 years of experience in South Florida, Residential Air will expertly handle sales, service, installation and maintenance of central air systems that give you a reliable, temperature-controlled environment. Location: 20250 N.E. 15th Court, Miami. Phone: 305-652-6040.

Red Fish Media: This is your “one-stop-shop” for corporations whose strategy is to increasingly target the cell phone and mobile communications consumer. The creative mindset adopted by the experienced corporate team at Red Fish Media allows a new corporate client to sit back and have an innovative and state-of-the art mobile communications strategy presented to them, supported by in-depth strategic consultancy to ensure it meets their needs and overall brand objectives. Location: 605 Lincoln Road, Suite 220,Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-2731.

Rey’s Cleaners: For over 30 years, Rey’s Cleaners has upheld the highest standards in professional fabricare. They clean everything from wedding gowns, to curtains, to down comforters and much more and with three locations to choose from the client is bound to be pleased. Location: 2619 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables; 5800 SW 73 St., Miami. Phone: (Coral Gables) 305-443-0839, (Miami) 305-666-7711.

Sarmiento Outdoors: In an original way, they add color to Miami’s business world through their various outdoor advertising techniques. One of their most sought after products are their illuminated panels. Location: 444 Brickell Ave., Suite 600, Miami. Phone: 305-400-7355.

Shorecrest Cleaners: These cleaners are the stain-removal experts and even specialize in wedding gowns and suede. Free pick-up and delivery offered. Location: 646 N.E. 79th St., North Beach. Phone: 305-751-5828.

SoBe Music Institute: World-class conservatory-level music instruction for all instruments; voice and composition for people of all ages. Location: 751 Euclid Ave. #2, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9220.

Studio Tattoo: Owner and artist Sinjin “Tony” Yoo has seven years’ experience in New York City and Florida. A second-generation artist with a flair for detail, Yoo seeks to create higher standards in tattooing, giving his customers personalized attention without the rock star attitude. Location: 1130 Collins Ave., Suite 2, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-1538.

Surf-Bal-Bay Cleaners: These professional cleaners provide expert stain removal, and will clean delicate items such as wedding gowns and suede. They will as well repair shoes and perform professional alterations. Locations: 9419 Harding Ave., Surfside; 7138 Abbott Ave., North Beach. Phone: Phone: 305-866-0093 (Surfside), 305-866-3969 (North Beach).

Total Support, Inc.: An information technology solutions company specializing in LAN/WAN network architecture, implementation, data and web services and system security. Location: 10 Le Jeune Road, Suite 310, Miami. Phone: 305-443-9999.

The UPS Store: Offers all the UPS Store services such as shipping, full-service packaging, mailbox or documents services, personalized freight, finishing, faxing, copies, Internet and printing all in one location. Location: 6538 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-5500.

3 J’s Cleaning Service: Let them do the dirty work! 3J’s Cleaning is a family-owned company, and staffed by local professional/educated bilingual cleaners, you won’t find anyone more dedicated to your satisfaction than they are. Phone: 786-356-9838.

Unicom Wireless & More: The place to find T-Mobile, Sprint Wireless and various other cell phone plans. Location: 1608 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9494.

USA 3000 Airlines: Flew in for the boat show from New York, Cleveland, Pittsburg and Philadelphia? Don’t have return flight tickets? USA 3000 Airlines fares start at $50. Phone: 1-877-USA-3000.

Uvium: A forward thinking consulting firm aligning business process, technology and people to achieve sustainable results. We help clients make sense of new technologies and empower them with intelligent applications that streamline day to day processes. Location: 4000 Ponce de Leon, Suite 470, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-443-4110.

Vine Communication, Inc.: a public relations agency that combines strategic programs and creativity to help clients grown both their reputation and bottom line. Location: 312 Minorca Ave., Suite 201, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-447-8678.

Wireless Oceans: Provides Miami Beach with wireless Internet access, with hourly, daily, weekly and monthly plans. Phone: 305-674-1220. Web site: www.wirelessoceans.com

York Lock and Key: Perhaps one of the longest-lived establishments on Miami Beach (in business since 1937), York Lock and Key’s lifespan is a testament to its reliability. For security or lock services, give them a call anytime — they’re available 24 hours a day. Location: 1554 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-5622. Web site: www.yorklock.com.

SHOES AND HANDBAGS

Donald J. Pliner: Quality shoes, leather jackets, purses and dresses can all be found here. Location: 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 803, Aventura Mall. Phone: 305-792-4774.

Enrico: Has a lot of hard to pronounce Italian name brands such as Gravati and Moreschi. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Suite 236, Bal Harbour Shops. Phone: 305-866-4117.

Footcare Express: Quality custom and orthopedic footwear for those who need “special” shoes. Has a doctor on the premises and even provides video analysis. Location: 2980 Aventura Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-932-0922.

Foot Locker: All shapes and sizes of athletic shoes for men, women and children. Location: 335 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-5433.

Koko & Palenki Shoes: The source for Cole-Haans, Casadei Singerson Morrison, Stuart Weitzman, Charles David and Dolce & Gabbana. Location: 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-792-9299.

Sas By Foot Flair Shoes: The comfy shoe place for “a healthy lifestyle.” Location: 9530 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-866-3416.

SoBe Unique, Inc.: Carries sandals and distinctive accessories from around the world for the “unique” lady as well as shoes from Spain and India. Location: 413 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8885.

Steve Madden: This boutique sells trendy and upbeat shoes for the urban runway of Lincoln Road. Location: 1006 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9997.

Z-Coil Shoes: These are the shoes of the future, with springs attached to the heel. Designed to alleviate foot pain and some back pain as well, the shoes’ springs balance the body’s weight and restore energy used when walking. Location: 949 N.E. 125th St., North Miami. Phone: 305-981-0177.

SHOPPING CENTERS

Antique Mall Y’All: With 72,000 square feet of space, this mall hosts more than 150 dealers under one roof, offering tons of merchandise ranging from furniture and art to vintage and hard-to-find collectibles. Open seven days a week, this is your one-stop shop for all things antique. Location: 17430 S.W. 97th Ave., Palmetto Bay. Phone: 305-969-0696.

Aventura Mall: The last time we checked, Aventura had more than 250 shops and restaurants, including six department stores, 50 women’s wear stores, 30 men’s wear stores, 17 health and beauty stores, 15 music stores, 11 specialty stores, at least one 24-screen megaplex, etc. Again, last time we checked. Nearly every year, Aventura Mall continues to get larger and larger. Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-1110.

Bal Harbour Shops: True to Stanley Whitman’s vision, Bal Harbour Shops continues to offer clothing shops, boutiques, toy stores, galleries, department stores, and other retail outlets catering to those who want the finer things in life. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-866-0311.

Bayside Marketplace: The waterfront shopping mall popular in downtown Miami as a center of retail, entertainment and dining. Location: 401 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-577-3344.

Champion Retail Plaza: The site of the old Marriott Courtyard, Champion has an Old Navy, a Designer Shoe Warehouse, Just For Feet and Bed, Bath & Beyond and several other businesses. Location: Biscayne Boulevard and N.E. 191st St., Aventura. Phone: 954-473-9619.

Dolphin Mall: Close proximity to the airport, a free bus shuttle, special “incentives” for out-of-area visitors and over 200 stores, restaurants and entertainment venues. Location: 11401 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-365-7446.

Loehmann’s Plaza: There is no movie theater anymore and it will soon be the site of a luxury apartment complex. Still, Loehmann’s attracts a fair crowd with its Barnes and Noble, its popular chain restaurants and clothing shops. Location: 18701 N.E. Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-932-4207.

Lincoln Road: Once this was a busy thoroughfare for vehicles. Then, in the 1960s, the city closed it off to traffic and transformed it into a pedestrian mall. Now its one of the most popular centers of retail and dining in South Florida. Location: From Alton Road to Collins Avenue in Miami Beach.

Promenade Shops: A maze of interconnected strip shopping plazas, this is the place to find Circuit City, Marshall’s Megastore, Olympia Gym, Chucky Cheeses, etc. Location: Biscayne Boulevard and Northeast 203rd St., Aventura. Phone: 305-933-8443.

Shops at Midtown Miami: Located just north of downtown Miami, this new shopping center includes stores like West Elm, Target, Loehmann’s, Ross Dress for Less, Linens ‘N Things, Circuit City, Marshall’s and PetSmart. Soon to open: JC Penney. The center will feature both national and regional specialty retail shops and restaurants. The Shops at Midtown Miami is a new development of Developers Diversified Realty, a fully integrated real estate investment trust engaged in the business of developing, leasing and managing shopping centers. Location: 3401 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-573-3371 Web site: www.ddr.com.
Waterways Shoppes: One of the more picturesque shopping centers in Aventura, Waterways has lots of restaurants, shops and art galleries. Location: Northeast 207th Street and Waterways Marina, Aventura. Phone: 800-407-9919.

SPECIALTY STORES

9th Chakra: Specializes in “metaphysical” items from all over the world such as tarot cards, candles, oils, fountains, books, incense, Feng Shui crystals, jewelry, oils, videos and other new age items. Plus: psychic readings and special computer technology that management says will photograph your aura. Location: 530 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0671.

Apollo Rare Coins Inc.: This is the place to fill all your rare coin, precious metal & jewelry needs. They appraise, buy and sell. Location: 2073 N.E. 163rd St., N. Miami Beach. Phone: 305-949-2646.

Café Don Pablo Gourmet Coffee: They use award-winning beans cultivated by skilled farmers whose methods, knowledge, and passion for coffee has been handed down to each new generation since the very first seed was planted. Wouldn’t you want to be drinking this? Phone: 305-249-2885.

Cavurotto by Ceruti: Deals in imported Italian silver gifts with prices from $6 to $225. Also offers customized “message” bracelets. An official Nomination Jewelry Dealer. Location: 1102 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7911.

Dhana Specialty Gifts: Sells stationary for invitations or whatever. Plus chocolates, layette, pet accessories and “much more.” Location: 9561 Harding Avenue, Surfside. Phone: 305-865-9112.

Fragrance Shop: The folks who own and operate the Fragrance Shop have sworn off alcohol – as in the stuff lazy perfume manufacturers insert in their perfumes to make their scents seem more powerful than they really are. Instead, they mix their concoctions with perfume oil, thus avoiding the “overwhelming” effect, allergic reactions and drying ordinary perfumes can produce. Location: 612 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-0037.

Genius Jones: Parents don't have to surrender to the worst whims of the mass market. It is possible to find smart children's products that are so well-designed you won't feel compelled to hide them in a closet when company comes to visit. In fact, you'll want to show them off! They spend lots of time finding intelligently designed products that answer the needs of modern parents and kids. Location: 1661 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach; 49 NE 39th St. Miami. Phone: 866-GENIUS-J.

GNC: This General Nutrition Center is a mecca for quality prices backed by unbeatable selection. This winning combination also offers incredible service. Location: 9452 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-865-8643. Location: 16850 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles. Phone: 305-957-8998.

Gun Depot: Offers new and used firearms and accessories for the gun aficionado. Location: 1626 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-2188.

House and Paper: This is the perfect place to get custom invitations and stationary and fine crystal, silver, china and linens. Location: 5823 Sunset Drive, South Miami. Phone: 305-661-8545.

Jenny’s Gourmet Gift Baskets: Teddy bears, mugs, bath items, and gourmet food all line the shelves of this gift shop and the sweet smell of cookies baked on premises permeates the air, tempting any one who walks in to take a look, a bite, and make a purchase. But the main allure of Jenny’s store are the namesake gift baskets filled with fruit, pasta, baked goods, cheese, champagne, or other gourmet items sold exclusively at Jenny’s. Location: 456 W. 41St St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-7977.

Luggage Gallery: Here you can find all kinds of luggage in varied sizes and travel accessories such as backpacks, computer cases, business briefcases and storage trunks. Location: 346 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1289.

Marlin Bait & Tackle: For those in search of the big one, as in those gilled, scaly creatures that dwell in oceans and fresh waters, Marlin Bait & Tackle has all the bait, tackle and fishing supplies that’s needed. Location: 1197 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-9959.

Museo del Disco: Wholesale and retail music megastore, specializing in Latin artists. You can shop online, too, at www.museodeldisco.com. Location: 1301 S.W. 70th St., Miami. Phone: 305-262-7711.

Phone Tastics: An Internet café where cyber surfing and cell phone sale deals are on the menu. Shop around for that perfect T Mobile or Cingular Wireless plan. Location: 924 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-1734.

Ruff n’ Tuff Paintball Park: Looking for some exciting action? Get on your knees, hide behind the trees and scurry around while trying to nail friends and family with paint! Location: 13200 N.W. 43rd Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-953-7776. Web site: www.rntpaintball.com.

Sandola Books & Gifts: The North Beach connection for those who want to give the gift of spiritual balance. Gift items include aromatherapy oil, incense and statues. Books include articles on Feng Shui and Buddhist and Hindu spirituality in English and Spanish. Location: 1114 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-9080.

TOBACCO STORES

Cigarette Kingdom Corp.: Distributor of all types of cigarettes and beer products. Location: 1024 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-993-5251.

Deco Drive Cigars: A wide range of cigars, tobacco and other products related to smoking. Location: 1446 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-9032.

Mike’s Cigars: This Bay Harbor landmark offers the widest selection of cigars in South Florida. Location: 1030 Kane Concourse (96th Street), Bay Harbor Islands. Phone: 305-866-2277.

Zelick’s Tobacco Corp.: Once inside, you’re immediately surrounded by tobacco lovers of all economic classes and two walls displaying every type of cigarette, cigar, pipe, lighter and match that can legally be sold in the United States. “El Pirata” doesn’t stop at tobacco: The shop also has has dice, loaded dice, batteries, pins and other knick-knacks. Location: 326 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1544.

TOY STORES

K B Toys: The general toy store for models, puzzles, action figures, video games and whatever else is now popular with tykes and teens. Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-931-2347.

Ready to Roll: Ready to Roll is one of the largest model train stores in the country. MTH, Lionel, and LGR are just some of the lines found at Ready to Roll, as well as classic products from the 1940s and the latest state of the art models. Location: 831 N.W. 143rd St., North Miami. Phone: 305-688-8868.

Toys R Us: The mega-toy store that makes children and adults not want to grow up. Location: 551 N.E. 167th St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-653-8697.

VARIETY STORES

Base: There is always something attractive about this place. And every time you go in, you are sure to find something you would like to give away as a gift, use to decorate your home décor, or wear on your back. Base also sells music. In a small room in the back you are invited to sit down on a barstool and listen to a selection of CDs you may or may not want to purchase. Location: 939 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6470.

Family Dollar: For those who need that special something, but don’t want to pay a heck of a lot of money for it. Has items at slashed prices… including plenty of stuff for a dollar. (Hence the name of the shop.) Location: 1154 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-993-4143.

SoBe Thrifty: Owned by the nonprofit Care Resource, an organization dedicated to providing services for those who are infected with AIDS or HIV, SoBe Thrifty has used men’s and women’s clothing for sale as well as books, vases, and other trinkets. Location: 1435 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7251.

RESTAURANTS, BARS & CLUBS

AMERICAN

Americana: The Ritz-Carlton pays homage to the supper clubs of the 1950s with the polished retro ambiance of its restaurant, Americana. With stunning views of an infinity pool and the Atlantic beyond, Americana’s outdoor setting is the perfect spot for Sunday brunch under the sun or a moonlit dinner with all the people-watching elements South Beach is famous for. Location: One Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-4000 ext 4329.

Big Pink: This South Pointe eatery has become very popular among locals and tourists. The menu is fairly extensive: salads, hamburgers, barbecue, pizza, etc. The dishes are affordable: under $30 for a three-course meal. During the late-night/early morning hours of Friday and Saturday, Big Pink is a much sought-after nourishment station for club-hoppers. Location: 157 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4700.

510 Ocean: Executive Chef Cory “Big Tex” Smith, formerly of Pacific Time, serves a unique blend of global cuisine and owner Bryan Davis spins his own mix of music at this new SoFi dining spot. “Everything works at this 1-month-old restaurant…” and “510 Ocean is sitting at the top of our Favorites list,” writes SunPost dining critic Mark Goldberg. Location: 510 Ocean Drive, next door to the Bentley Hotel, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1788.

Gordon Biersch Brewery: Like GBs all over the United States, Gordon Biersch on Brickell brews its own German-style beer on the premises. Gordon Biersch also serves entrées like tender filet mignon with Portobello demi glace, lamb chops sautéed with Moroccan spices and tomato-cucumber raita or other meals that have received thumbs-up from local dining critics. Location: 1201 Brickell Ave., Miami. Phone: 786-425-1130.

Premier Wine Club: Premier Wine Club is a wine bar and bistro that boasts a wine list of over 500 wines with meals specially designed to complement the wines. Location: 145 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-416-5187.

Quarterdeck Seafood Bar & Neighborhood Grill: This once dark and almost claustrophobic ale house has been transformed into a bright, lively and spacious casual dining establishment with a long bar that serves as its social hub. There’s much more than pub grub. Quality entrées include fresh seafood, baby back ribs, steaks, pasta, heaping salads, juicy burgers and spicy chicken wings that come reasonably priced with a choice of tasty french fries or healthier options like mixed veggies or sweet potato. Along with the beer, various sporting matches are always on tap, from the more than 40 flat-screen TVs (including in the bathrooms) that access all major sports satellite broadcast packages. Open for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks until 3 a.m. Location: 1430 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-2441.

Soyka: Take a walk on the wild side and head over to Soyka’s, a culinary oasis in Miami’s Upper Eastside. Main courses include garlic and herb rotisserie chicken; grilled New York steak; linguine with spicy Italian sausage; wiener schnitzel and sesame-seared salmon. Location: 5556 N.E. Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-759-3117.

Van Dyke Café: Serves up comfort food such as fish, burgers, steak, salad and mashed potatoes to a trendy and diverse clientele. Location: 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3600.

BAKERY

Buenos Aires Bakery Corp.: This Argentine bakery sells more than 25 different types of Factura (Argentine Danish) including dulce de leche. Buenos Aires is set up French-style with hardwood floors, chandeliers, curtains outside and outdoor seating. Besides pastries, they also sell sandwiches. Open for all three meals to accommodate different appetites. Location: 7134 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-7887.

Extravaganza Pastry: A coffee shop that makes pastries, specialty cakes, cookies, breads, and caters special events. Location: 12117 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-899-8998.

Kafka’s Kafe: A combination Internet café, magazine stand, used bookstore, and coffee shop. The coffee shop features a wide variety of coffee creations as well as breads, cakes and other pastries. Location: 1464 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-348-0901.

Karlo’s Bakery: Sure, Karlo’s has daily lunch specials, fresh bread baked daily, cakes, coffees, sandwiches, quiches, tortillas, etc. But the owners of Karlo’s Bakery are especially proud of their mousses — yummy, creamy, delicious mousses. They have the usual chocolate, but also mango, orange and passion fruit, to name a few. They even serve up combinations of chocolate mousse with the aforementioned flavors. Location: 1242 Coral Way, Miami. Phone: 305-858-1080.

Le Chic French Bakery: This quaint bakery on Washington Avenue serves some of the best French-style baked products in SoBe, ranging from French bread to pastries and other desserts to croissants of all sorts (our personal favorite is the chocolate). There are seating areas for those who want to eat right there and then, but most people prefer to order their products and savor Le Chic’s baked goods in the privacy of their own homes. Location: 1043 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5522.

Taste Bakery: Fresh-baked jumbo muffins, home-baked breads, fresh desserts and cakes, wraps, sandwiches, panini, coffee, smoothies, New York-style bagels — they can all be found at Taste. Plus: free delivery from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. Location: 900 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-9920. Web site: www.tastebakeryandcafe.com.

BARS, CLUBS & OTHER NIGHTLIFE VENUES

Abbey Brewing Co.: Since 1995 Abbey Brewing Co. has tried hard to find beers from all over planet Earth (particularly Germany and Belgium) along with its own brand of 16 beers such as Abbey Brown, IPA and the mind-killing Abbey 12. Abbey has a selection of bar food available. Not in the mood for beer? Check out the wine list. Location: 1115 16th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-8110.

Automatic Slim’s: A rock ‘n’ roll-style bar/lounge with no cover charge. Affordable drinks, tasty bar food and spinning by SoBe’s best local DJs. Location: 1216 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-0795.

Beaches Bar & Grill: Giant large screen TVs, bumper pool, pool tables, giant jukebox selection, full kitchen, daily happy hour – not bad for a bar located in the basement of the Days Inn Hotel. Location: 4299 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1910.

Blue: Owned by Scott Fiesch, Blue is an attitude-free bar and lounge where some of the best DJs entertain the masses. Location: 222 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-1009.

Bongo’s: Owned by Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Bongo’s is a Cuban restaurant-Latin dance club fusion. People have been known to stand in line for up to half an hour for the chance to dance to merengue, salsa or whatever the DJ decides to play. Location: 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-777-2100.

Boy Bar: North Beach’s only gay bar, this establishment is open until 5 a.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Thirsty? Boy Bar has two-for-one drinks from 5 to 9 p.m. Location: 1220 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-BOYS.

Broadway Billiards: A classy joint that is all about playing pool. Full-service bar and wait staff. Sundays are pool tournament nights. Location: 17813 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-931-1900.

Churchill’s Hideaway: Offers a wide array of entertainment for its drinking patrons. Besides the acclaimed live band – running the gauntlet from rock and alternative to jazz and even some punk – there have even been “mud-wrestling events” held here. Location: 5501 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-757-1807.

Clevelander: In the 1980s, before the phrase “never a cover” became popular, the Clevelander never charged for entry to its inside sports bar or its famous outside lobby. Today the crowds still flock to dine and drink at the Clevelander. And whether it’s a live sporting event, live music or a “Hot Body” modeling contest, Clevelander still never charges a cover. Location: 1020 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-3485.

Club Deep: The ever-popular 2,000-gallon aquarium that serves as a dance floor, Club Deep continues to do well with the young professional crowd. Location: 621 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1509.

Club Deuce: While the title implies a “club,” the only DJs you are likely to see are those who want to blow off some steam after a hard night of spinning. Basically this is a full-service bar with a good jukebox and a single pool table. The fun is watching the diverse, eclectic and sometimes on-the-edge customers who wander in. Location: 222 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6200.

Club Madonna: Club Madonna’s dancers take it all off in one of only two places that allow totally nude dancing south of Haulover Park. But that’s not all. Club Madonna’s entertainers also give friction dances, shower dances and private dances in stretch limos. Location: 1527 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2000.

Dewey’s Tavern: A neighborhood bar with a daily happy hour, Dewey’s also serves food, including mighty tasty cheeseburgers, from 11 a.m. until 4 a.m. They have a pool table plus a large-screen TV for sporting events. Location: 852 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9980.

Delano Hotel: Transforms its pool and “Rose Bar” into a club in its own right on Wednesday nights and weekends. Location: 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2000.

Felt: Amuse yourself at any one of the 10 regulation-sized pool tables and the full-service bar. Felt tends to be a popular hangout for promoters and club owners. Location: 1242 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-2114.

Finnegan’s Way: Tired of the same clichéd SoBe atmosphere on Ocean Drive? Then visit the alternative: Finnegan’s Way. An open-air bar provides the sort of neighborhood feel often missing in SoBe. (Plus it has a real cool fish tank containing a mini-shark.) If you’re hungry, check out the generous steak and seafood menu. Location: 1344 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7747.

Finnegan’s II: While its menu is somewhat more limited than its Ocean Drive counterpart, the bar and kitchen is full-service into the wee hours and its bartenders are talented in the art of mixing mind-numbing alcoholic beverages, which makes for some interesting games of pool and darts. On weekend nights Finnegan’s II also offers live music. Location: 942 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7997.

Gemma: Tonino Doino and his brothers, Paolo, Roberto and Luciano, have created Gemma above a well-trod stretch of Lincoln Road. Plush enough for high comfort, lush enough to sate and smart enough to keep safe its secrets. That it also just so happens to be hidden in plain sight makes it all the more alluring. Imbibe. Location: 529 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3662.

Gold Rush: The only 24-hour adult entertainment club in South Florida. Also has 32 VIP rooms. Location: 29 NE 11th St., Miami. Phone: 305-358-9848.

Happy’s Stork Lounge: Gotta love a bar that does takeout. Attached to the dark, intimate bar is a liquor store that not only sells beer, wine and potent spirits but also porn! (What else does a stork need to be happy?) Bar component has overhanging TVs, amusement games, a pool table and an interesting clientele. Happy hour stretches from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Location: 1872 79th St., North Bay Village. Phone: 305-865-3621.

Hard Rock Café: Live musical acts regularly grace Hard Rock’s stage. Plus find good food, a full bar and plenty of “Hard Rock Café” T-shirts for sale. Location: 401 Biscayne Blvd., R-200, Bayside Marketplace, Miami. Phone: 305-377-3110.

Hoagie Hut Café: Serving up gourmet hoagie submarines and large gourmet salads. Even has a full breakfast menu. Location: 11011 N.W. 27th Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-769-2925.

Hoy Como Ayer: Want to find the best in cutting-edge music and jazz? Then check out a place called Calle Ocho. Location: 2212 SW Eighth St., Miami. Phone: 305-541-2631.

Jazid: As its promo announces, this club offers live jazz “every damn night.” Hear live jazz or R&B downstairs nightly while DJs spin upstairs. Location: 1342 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-9372.

Laundry Bar: Motto: “Where Your Clothes Get Washed While You Get Sloshed!” Open for the last six years, the Laundry Bar is a full-service Laundromat and full-liquor bar. Open seven days from 7 a.m. to 5 a.m. Daily two-for-one happy hour 12 to 9 p.m. Location: 721 N. Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7700.

Lost Weekend: Stepping into this pool hall is like stepping back in time. There’s no attitude, no flash, no cover and no frills. The place is always crowded and the guys are serious about playing pool. Location: 218 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1707.

Mango’s: At David Wallack’s Mango’s you can taste great food, watch scantily clad Latin dancers shake what their mamas gave ‘em, and boogie a little yourself to the various live bands featured every night. Open at 11 a.m. and partying until 5 in the morning, Mango’s keeps the music going. It also serves a tasty salsa, with full-service, Latin continental cuisine ranging from chicken wings to lobster tails. Location: 900 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-4422.

Mansion: Formerly called Level, Mansion – at 40,000 square feet – is the largest nightclub space in South Beach. Now under the same ownership as Club Opium. Location: 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1525.

Mike’s at Venetia: This Irish-style bar is equipped with 18 televisions connected to DirecTV, pool tables and, during its 4 to 7 p.m. Happy Hour, all cocktails, beer and food dishes are discounted. Poolside patio dining (and drinking) available. Location: 555 N.E. 15th St., Ninth Floor, Miami. Phone: 305-374-5731.

Nikki Beach: Nestled within the Penrod’s entertainment complex, Nikki Beach maximizes the surrounding tropical landscape, sea breezes, palm trees and warm sand by staging most of its entertainment outdoors. Location: One Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1231.

Norman’s American Bar and Grill: This bar and restaurant (now offering low-carb dishes) is a popular North Beach hangout, partly because of its friendly bar staff and partly because of its satellite soccer matches. Location: 6770 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-9248.

Opium Garden: Now home to the hipster VIP room called Privé, Opium continues to thrive and evolve under the leadership of Eric and Francis Milon and Roman Jones. Location: 136 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-8630.

Palace Food Bar: Serves drinks and food and keeps the party going. Location: 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7234.

Palms Hotel: Live music comes along with the happy hour at this hotel’s bar lobby with performers such as singer Nicole Henry. Location: 3025 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-0505.

Pangaea/Gryphon: At the epicenter of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s Paradise Live! entertainment complex, are Pangaea and the Gryphon, two sensational yet distinctive lounge and nightclub concepts transformed into one sensual, vibrant nightspot. With sexy décor, world-famous DJs, spectacular dancers, hosts of percussionists and exclusive parties, Pangaea and the Gryphon offer an unparalleled experience and an alternative to South Beach. Location: 5711 Seminole Way, Hollywood. Phone: 954-581-5454.

Pawn Shop Lounge: Downtown’s newest and most unique venue, the Pawn Shop Lounge features über-cool interior design with VIP areas carved out of a school bus and Airstream trailer, as well as a lounge framed by the body of a 727. Pawn Shop’s music is equally eclectic with everything from rock to house to live bands offered weekly. Location: 1222 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-373-3511.

Playwright: Eamon Guilfoyle sought to fill a Celtic void when he opened the Playwright on Washington Avenue. Now this establishment still packs them in with its authentic Irish pub atmosphere. The pub has become a mecca for soccer fans as well. This is also a place to find authentic Irish cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Location: 1265 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-0667.

Polar Bar: This new addition to the Lincoln Road party scene features a bar and lounge area with music and, as the name suggests, a chill vibe. Location: 938 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-9334.

Purdy Lounge: Have the urge to drink a quality cocktail, play some pool and lounge about on some of the most unique furniture in South Florida? Then Purdy Lounge is the place for you. Thursday night is ladies’ night when, from 10 p.m. to midnight, those of the female persuasion can drink free. Location: 1811 Purdy Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-4622.

Raleigh Bar: Raleigh guests and nonguests flock to this full-service bar to enjoy giant martinis and everything else the talented bartenders can whip up. Location: 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-6300.

Room: In spite of its concrete-inspired decor, the Room has a comfortable feel, especially after you’ve had a glass of wine or a few of the 50 or so beers from England, Germany, France, the Czech Republic, Scotland and exotic American brands (you will NOT find Budweiser here). Location: 100 Collins Ave., #4, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6061.

Sandbar Lounge: Tourists and locals alike hang at this establishment to watch the game, listen to jukebox music, shoot the breeze and enjoy a cocktail or brew. Plus there’s live musical entertainment Thursday through Saturday. Location: 6752 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-1752.

Score: Known for its ideal location, Sunday afternoon Tea Dances and no cover charge, this gay bar/club has the best of both worlds offering tables outside and inside. Score has various bars, lounge areas and dance floors playing dance, hip-hop and classics for patrons seven days a week. Location: 727 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-1111.

Segafredo: Around the world the name Segafredo Zanetti Espresso means an Italian-based coffee bar franchise where one can find the best coffee. On Lincoln Road the name means a place where one can also find good sandwiches and salads, good desserts and good friends. Described as a lounge that extends into the outdoors, Segafredo has a full-service alcohol bar that not only features tasty mixed drinks but also bottled beer. Location: 1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-0047.

Shine: Nightlife impresario Gerry Kelly’s latest offering to South Beach scenesters is a thumping club inside the Shelborne Hotel. Location: 1801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-341-1455.

Solid Gold: The ultimate gentleman’s club offering 12,000 square feet of adult entertainment, Solid Gold now features regular live entertainment by famous ‘80s groups such as Flock of Seagulls and Rat. Location: Northeast corner of 163rd Street and Biscayne Boulevard, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-956-5726.

Space: Proof that warehouses can in fact make nifty clubs. Some of the best DJs in the United States have performed here. And thanks to Miami’s liberal liquor laws, this club will keep you dancing until the next day. Location: 34 N.E. 11th St., Miami. Phone: 305-372-9378.

SkyBar: Located behind the Shore Club Hotel, the sky is the ceiling for a courtyard nightlife experience known as the Bamboo Garden and RumBar (around the bar). Prefer something with more interior space? Hang in the Red Room. Patterned after the ultra-hip SkyBar in L.A. Location: 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-6772.

Ted’s Hideaway: A South Pointe institution, Ted’s Hideaway is run by Bob and Tim Wilcox. A full-service bar with a pool table and jukebox. Location: 124 Second St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9869.

Tobacco Road: Once considered a dive, the nearly century-old joint now attracts yuppies and bikers alike who are interested in good booze, good food and good music. Blues greats like B.B. King have played at Tobacco Road and local blues bands like Iko-Iko make regular appearances. But the Road doesn’t just live on blues alone: Jazz, rock, alternative and a host of other forms of live music are heard here as well. Location: 626 S. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-374-1198.

Townhouse Rooftop: The oh-so-mod Townhouse Hotel sits a half-block from the beach in the fun atmosphere of the Art Deco District. This homage to hip includes rooftop terrace waterbeds and a glow-in-the-dark water tower. Built in 1939, the landmark hotel reopened at the turn of the millennium after major renovations by the same transplanted New Yorker responsible for the Delano’s Blue Door restaurant. Jonathan Morr was intent on being a bit irreverent in design while making this property a “cool place to be.” Location: 150 20th Street and Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3800.

Twist: Hailed by locals as one of the best gay bars in South Beach, Twist is one of the few places south of Dade Boulevard where a patron can just relax and be him or herself. In fact, Twist has become so popular that it expanded to include an outdoor lounge, a rooftop bar, a game room and the all-essential dance floor. Oh yeah, it also has male strippers. Location: 1075 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9478.

Wet Willie’s: The second-floor balcony will get you high and the potent frozen drinks will get you even higher. Not for lightweight partiers. Location: 760 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5650.

Whitelaw Lounge: This upscale Art Deco hotel is so stylish it’s not surprising they serve a mean martini. And you’ll look oh-so-cool sipping yours in 808, the hotel’s new retro martini bar with an “unabridged” menu of martinis, champagne, espresso drinks and deserts. Location: 808 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-398-7000

Zeke’s Roadhouse: The affordable beer place returns! Now under the control of Thelma Deutsch, all beers (domestic or foreign, draft and bottled) are $3. Wine is $4 a glass. Location: 625 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3118.

CASUAL DINING

Cheeseburger Baby: The name says it all! Cheeseburgers are the favorite here, baby. There is a $6.99 lunch special Monday to Friday including a cheeseburger, fries and a soda. Plus, Friday, Saturday and Sunday it’s all-you-can-drink with the purchase of a cheeseburger. Location: 1505 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7300.

Chef Vincent: Located within the stylish Colony Hotel, Chef Vincent has an extensive breakfast menu with plenty of eggs, omelets, croissants, pancakes and bagels. Want some steak? Hey, they’ve got steak and eggs. For late risers, Chef Vincent offers yummy comfort dishes for lunch and dinner, from Caprese salad to salmon burgers to good old-fashioned grilled New York strip steak. Location: 735 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8283.

11th Street Diner: For 11 years now, the 11th Street Diner has been serving home-cooked meals to tourists and locals. Its success has centered on good cooking, hefty portions and a menu of healthy dishes including salads, seafood, soups, pastas and sandwiches. There are also daily specials and a full-service bar. Open 24 hours a day. Location: 1065 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-6373.

Front Porch: Since this eatery’s creation, the owners have aspired to make this Penguin Hotel restaurant a “home away from home.” Their formula: Serving fresh food in generous portions at a reasonable price. While breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes are available, the Front Porch’s breakfast and brunch specials (which can be ordered any time of the day) are among the most popular. Location: 1418 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-8300.

Grill Med: A trip to the Mediterranean is two blocks from the beach, just west of the busy intersection of 11th Street and Collins Avenue. They serve spiced meats and various spirits in a very intimate atmosphere. Within the 1,000 square feet of the place, Lebanese owner Mario El-Asmar treats customers like relatives. Location: 209 11 St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-6177.

Karma Kar Wash and Café: The perfect venue for lunch and a car wash, at the same time. Location: 7010 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-759-1392.

La Sandwicherie: The place to go for gourmet sandwiches, salads, shakes, smoothies and everything in between. Among the choices: roast beef sandwich, roast beef salad, seafood sandwich, tomatoes mozzarella, tuna salad, the French Riviera, pate sandwich, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella and the famous Croque Monsieur hot plate, consisting of grilled toast, ham and Swiss with a side salad. Location: 229 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8934.

Miami Gyro: Open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, Miami Gyro is a small cafe that serves everything from Greek salads to Greek-style hamburgers and authentic gyros. Eat in or enjoy takeout specials and free delivery. Location: 540 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Phone: 305-531-5526

Nexxt Café: Sports a menu 18 pages long with items like quesadillas, chicken wings, salmon egg rolls, pizza, tacos, chicken, crab, salads, coffee, tea, steak, pastas, beer, etc. Take the Nexxt challenge and see if there’s anything on the menu they don’t have. Location: 700 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-6643.

Paninoteca: For the serious sandwich connoisseur, this shop makes gourmet quality sandwiches and pizzinis the European way. Example: Norwegian smoked salmon with Italian cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, spinach, endive, white wine vinegar and olive oil. Location: 809 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0058.

Pita Pit: Pocket sandwiches and more at this Persian grill. Location: 1321 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8333.

Scrap Bar: A laid-back atmosphere’s a must when it comes to eating barbecue, and Scrap Bar follows that rule to the letter. Featuring live music and DJs, this carefree eatery serves up good grub daily till midnight. Location: 216 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-0100.

Shucker’s: While an assortment of comfort food dishes are available, many diners are inspired by the waterfront view to try the steamed clam and oyster selection or snack on a few conch fritters. Since it is a bar and grill, there is a full bar, pool tables and a few video games. Since it is so close to WSVN, you may even see a couple of Channel Seven guys getting hammered. Location: 1819 79th Street (Kennedy) Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-1570.

Uva 69: Part Barcelona bistro, part urban wine bar, Uva has salads, paninis, tapas and fine cuisine. Also features an international selection of premium wines. Location: 6900 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-754-9022. Web site: www.uva-69.com.

CHINESE

Bamboo Garden: Has earned a reputation throughout Northeast Miami-Dade as a major source for authentic Chinese cuisine. Location: 13195 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami; 1232 N.E. 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: (North Miami) 305-899-9902; (NMB) 305-945-1722.

Christine Lee’s Restaurant: Serving patrons for 35 years, this Chinese restaurant offers Western dishes such as prime sirloin steak, Dover sole almandine, veal chops and broiled spring chicken. The menu also features Mandarin and Szechwan specialties like steak stir-fried with black mushroom caps and bamboo shoots or shrimp with lobster sauce. Location: 17082 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-947-1717.

Emerald Coast: Boasts six elegant dining rooms and the management vows they use only the freshest ingredients. Besides tasty Chinese cuisine, Emerald Coast has a sushi bar with everything from eel, tuna and spider rolls to California, spicy tuna and vegetable rolls. Location: 16850 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-787-1530.

Kim’s Chinese: Offering selections in Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechwan styles for the last 40 years, Kim’s offers a casual environment, takeout service and a speedy delivery service available from First to 65th streets in Miami Beach. Prices are affordable with dinner specials starting at $8.50. Also does catering. Location: 1245 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8822.

Miss Yip Chinese Café: Contemporary Asian dining just off Lincoln Road. The Shanghai Express lunch special for $10.88 runs from noon to 6 p.m. daily. The dining room is open until 11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until midnight Friday-Saturday. Location: 1661 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-5488.

New Chinatown: Fresh, natural ingredients are used in all the Chinese staples like wonton soup, special fried rice and Peking duck. New Chinatown, in business more than 20 years, offers an extensive menu with items from China’s most popular cuisines — Mandarin, Cantonese and Szechwan. Location: 5958 S. Dixie Highway, South Miami. Phone: 305-662-5650.

Sum Yum Gai: Why not take some young guy or gal, or an old guy or gal, or maybe even someone between genders to Sum Yum Gai, where fine Chinese dining can be found in a casual eating environment. Location: 1403 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-8889.

Yeung’s Mandarin Garden: With more than two decades of experience, Yeung’s affordable Chinese cuisine has been hailed by critics. Patrons can dine in the restaurant’s elegant dining room or order takeout. Yeung’s also does catering. Location: 954 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1144.

CUBAN

Cachita Restaurant: Authentic Cuban cuisine and coffee with friendly service and a family atmosphere. Location: 1116 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-8144.

Café Cardozo: Part of the Estefan Enterprises empire, Café Cardozo is located inside the landmark Art Deco Cardozo Hotel and serves Cuban cuisine with Asian accents. Location: 1300 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-2822.

David’s Café II: The all-you-can-eat 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. lunch buffet is popular with South Beachers and visitors from all walks of life. (It’s only $8.50, weekdays only.) For those who missed the meal, David’s also serves arroz con pollo, black beans and rice, fish soup, egg salad, linguine, pork, and other dishes 24 hours a day. And coffee junkies have come to appreciate David’s style of high-octane caffeine. Location: 1654 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8707.

Havana Dreams Café: The “home Cuban and International Cuisine, Music and Art,” dishes include Macademia Red Fish, Broiled Lamb Shank, Pan-Roasted Grouper Portobello, Filete de Pollo en Salsa de Langosta and, last but not least Arroz con Pollo. Live comedy shows on the weekends. Location: 9735 N.W. 41st St., Miami. Phone: 305-716-4999.

La Palomilla on the Beach: Authentic Cuban cuisine with daily lunch specials starting at $4.95 plus tax. Take-out and delivery also available. Location: 219 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-4414.

Larios on the Beach: Yet another Gloria and Emilio Estefan-owned establishment, Larios offers authentic Cuban cuisine such as traditional black beans and rice, green plantain cups stuffed with beef or shrimp, and grilled fish filet. The essence of pre-Castro Cuba is also captured by décor that depicts a countryside. Location: 820 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9577.

Yuca: Since 1989, this restaurant has served dishes from the island such as “Rabo Encendido,” a tender, slow-braised oxtail in fiery rioja wine sauce and roast garlic and yucca mash or “Pollo Criollo,” a grilled semi-boneless half chicken marinated in tropical citrus juices and served with citrus vinaigrette on fufu with plantain chips and avocados. Location: 501 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9822.

DELICATESSEN

A Wolfie Cohen’s Rascal House: The tradition keeps on going. Once owned by Wolfie Cohen of Wolfie’s in Miami Beach, today it’s part of the Jerry’s Deli empire. Locals and tourists still pack the place. Allegedly, Rascal is also a favorite eating ground for Sunny Isles’ political class. Location: 17190 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-947-4581.

Arnie and Richie’s: A deli dining institution for decades, A&R uses only the freshest fish, ham, roast beef, and salami. Location: 525 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7691.

Bagels and Company: Twenty years in business. Open seven days a week, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Great hand-rolled bagels, homemade salads and overstuffed sandwiches. Location: 11064 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-892-2435.

Deco Sandwiches: Billed as a “gourmet deli,” Deco Sandwiches’ menu features 58 items (each under $10), more than half of which are sandwiches with cute names like “the Dapper Don” (red snapper) and “the Shag” (hot pastrami). Then there are the breakfasts, salads, soups and burgers, which are 100 percent fresh ground black angus beef. Location: 1361 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1812.

Jerry’s Famous Deli & Pizza: Beverly Hills’ ultimate delicatessen has arrived in South Beach. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and anything in between. Menu includes over 600 traditional deli and dining favorites such as chicken and meat entrées, appetizers, giant sandwiches, pastas, soups, salads, pizzas and much more. Location: 1450 Collins Ave., South Beach. Phone: 305-532-8030.

Mo’s Restaurant & Bakery: Mo’s Restaurant & Bakery serves entrées like fresh roasted turkey, glazed Cornish hen and broiled Atlantic salmon. Plenty of sandwiches and a wide variety of platters. Now serving dinner and offering catering services. Location: 2780 N.E. 187th St., Aventura. Phone: 305-936-8555.

New York Bagel Deli: This gourmet bagel deli has more than 30 different bagel sandwiches like the delicious pesto turkey bagel. The eatery also has breakfast egg sandwiches and bagels for spreads and gourmet salads, vegetarian sandwiches and a full-service juice bar (including wheat grass). And for those who constantly struggle to find a place to park on the Beach, the New York Bagel Deli has free parking. Location: 6546 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-2522.

New York’s Big Apple Deli: Food made fresh on the premises and served by a friendly staff. Plenty of salads and sandwiches on the menu. Location: 14432 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-940-0128.

Pan Fiore: Located in the Regal Cinemas (South Beach) strip-mall complex, this Italian deli has sandwiches and imported goods for you to buy. It also offers an array of meatless sandwiches and gourmet Colombian coffee. The staff provides great counter service and will help you with the pronunciation of the food as well. Location: 1627 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0930.

FRENCH

A La Folie: This Olivier Corre-owned place has an authentic French ambiance. As you step onto its mosaic-tiled floor, Corre encourages you to sit down, grab a crêpe and relax for hours as they do in his hometown of Paris. Location: 516 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-4484.

Blue Door at the Delano: Created by Chef Claude Troisgras, the menu here merges Florida ingredients with French and “typical” American cuisine to form unique dishes that attract dining aficionados, celebrities and hipsters alike. Location: 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2000.

Café Le Glacier: This French-style bistro features signature French dishes as well as a variety of multicultural favorites. The café also hosts a coffee bar and homemade dessert list. Vegetarian specialties are also available. Location: 7295 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-754-6551.

Café Papillon: Described by Rafael Briand as a “typical old French bistro with antiques and old pictures of France,” Pap’s continental and surprisingly affordable food is far from typical. A variety of tasty soups, sandwiches, salads and entrées. Location: 530 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-1139.

Plein Sud Restaurant: Enjoy a touch of world-famous traditional cuisine from the South of France while relaxing in a fabulously romantic setting. Location: 12409 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-891-2355.

Tamara Restaurant: Located inside the formal dining room of the elegantly styled, 11-story National Hotel, Tamara Restaurant offers French Fusion fare that sumptuously combines traditional French cuisine with contemporary flare. This restaurant makes the National almost as famous as its infinity pool. Location: 1677 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-2311.

W Wine Bistro: In the heart of the Design District, this bistro/wine shop offers more than 200 wines from around the world, focusing on small wineries and organic growers. The menu, mostly fresh salads and sandwiches at lunch, changes after 5.30 p.m. to tapas and wine-friendly foods. Location: 3622 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-576-7775.

HEALTHY

Athens Juice Bar: Sure, Athens has its tasty fruit smoothies, but it also offers fresh tropical fruit salads, fruit and vegetable juices. Location: 1214 Washington Ave.; 6942 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (Washington) 305-672-4648; (Collins) 305-861-2143.

Fresh Diet Inc.: There is an affordable way to get freshly cooked meals delivered to your doorstep on a daily basis. Fresh Diet Inc. has several programs to choose from starting at $29.99 per day for three gourmet meals and two snacks. All of the meal selections and various plans are available online (you can set up your meal plan from your Blackberry while you’re sitting in traffic on I-95.) Fresh Diet’s meals are cooked fresh daily and delivered to your door individually packaged and inside a cooler to maintain freshness. Location: 9429 Harding Ave., #34, Surfside. Phone: 866-373-7450. Web site: www.thefreshdiet.com.

Honey Tree: This all-natural market has a fresh vegetarian deli with a juice bar along with alternative vitamins, groceries, body care, books, and incense for a healthy lifestyle. Location: 5138 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-759-1696.

ICE CREAM

Dolce Vita Gelato Café: From a family of master ice cream makers with more than 50 years’ experience producing Italian-Argentine-style ice cream with natural and fresh products. Some of the flavors include vanilla, banana, “dulce de leche con nuez,” and creme caramel. Location: 954 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-2523.

Frieze Ice Cream Factory: Just as the name implies, the Frieze makes its ice cream right on the premises. Thus the ice cream and shakes you devour there are as fresh as can be. Location: 1626 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0207.

Gelateria Parmalat: “The flavors change every day,” says Giselle Nasser, owner of South Beach’s Gelateria Parmalat. Like at Parmalats all over the world, the ice cream served at this Lincoln Road parlor is made right on the premises, using the best ingredients. The staff has can make ice cream “out of anything.” There is also a wide selection of shakes and sherbets. Location: 670 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-9475.

Gelato Station: Ice cream store and coffee shop all in one, Capri Cone Gelato serves delicious homemade gelato and frozen desserts. The gelato is served in a waffle cone or cup. Catering services are available. Location: 5580 NE Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-756-0407.

Ghirardelli: For more than 150 years the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has been manufacturing and marketing high-quality chocolate that puts smiles on women’s faces all over the world. The Lincoln Road store has shiny foil-wrapped bars of it in every corner, as well as helpful salespeople handing out free samples right as customers enter. They also serve decadent ice cream concoctions and fountain drinks. Location: 801 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305- 532-2538.

Rocky’s Italian Ice: Food Network star Rachael Ray has called it “the best Italian ice ever,” and understandably so: The 12-16 flavors are made hourly and always with fresh fruit. Perennial favorites Monkey Berry (banana, raspberry and strawberry) and Tropical Paradise (mango, passion fruit, banana and orange) usually sell out in less than an hour. Rocky’s also offers gelato, sandwiches, frozen bananas dipped in chocolate or caramel, and more. Location: 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-3301 Web site: www.rockysitalianice.com

Schakolad Chocolate Factory: These hand-made European-style confections will surely melt in your mouth, whether its the chocolate-covered strawberry or the pure chocolate body paint. Schakolad, founded by Bernie Schaked, boasts locations around the world, but this is the only shop in Miami-Dade County. Location: 323 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-569-9530.

Tasti D’Lite: This New York success story and best-tasting “all natural alternative” to other desserts is perfect for an after-dinner treat or a post-workout snack. Location: 821 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-6855.

INDIAN & MIDDLE EASTERN

Hakan Turkish Grill: This new South Beach spot for lunch and dinner serves imaginative Turkish cuisine, and also offers a large screen TV where patrons can catch national and Turkish sports events. Location: 1040 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9557.

Kebab Indian Restaurant: There are a lot of places in SoBe that aspire to serve the ultimate in Indian subcontinental cuisine, but to really get it you’ll have to go to good ol’ 167th Street in North Miami Beach. At Kebab, the cooks are masters of curry, spices and dipping sauces. And after 9 p.m. Kebab has belly dancers! Location: 514 N.E. 167th St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-940-6309.

Moroccan Nights: Vegetarians, meat lovers and even those keeping kosher will discover dishes perfect for their diet. Tabouli, tahini and hummus are mainstays. The Moroccan Nights Salad ($11.95) is a popular favorite, and after a tasty array of appetizers, you decide between kabobs, couscous specialties or tagines. Also popular for its live belly dancers. Location: 9555 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-865-5333.

Raja’s Indian Cuisine: Fresh Indian food, such as Masala Dosa, Idli, Uttapam, Chicken Tika Masala and more, laid out steam-table-style. The menu changes daily. Open 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., until 4:30 p.m. Sunday and closed Wednesday. Location: 33 N.E. Second Ave, Miami. Phone: 305-539-9551.

Rice House of Kabob: Forget the low-carb craze, rice has been “a staple of the diet for cultures around the world for thousands of years.” Try this Persian eatery’s specialty, saffron Basmati rice. Or one of the signature kabobs, like the fish kabob, made with chunks of chargrilled swordfish and onions. Location: 1318 Alton Road, Miami Beach; www.ricehouseofkabob.com. Phone: 305-531-0332.

ITALIAN

Bella Luna: This locally acclaimed restaurant inside Aventura Mall serves homemade pastas, pollo alla diavolo, scaloppini paillard, risotto al porcini and award-winning desserts. Location: 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-792-9330.

Brasserie Brickell Key: Spaghetti with seafood dishes, giant veal chop dishes, antipasto appetizers — it doesn’t get any more Italian than this. Location: 605 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone: 305-577-0907.

Café Avanti: On the walls, replicas of Italian masterpieces get you in the mood as you await the food, which includes such dishes as homemade mozzarella and Colorado lamb chops with spinach. Also offers fish, meat, veal, chicken and, of course, pasta dishes, including the tortellini capriccio with mushroom and prosciutto. Location: 732 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-4400.

Café Prima Pasta: A casual family restaurant featuring Italian cuisine with a slight Argentine influence. Prima Pasta bakes its own pasta, breads and desserts in its highly acclaimed bakery department, which has been known to ruin more than one diet. Sit at the counter or bar and enjoy the food, which ranges from pasta to steaks and chicken. Recently completed a renovation upgrade. Location: 414 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-0106.

Carpaccio: Authentic Italian cuisine and décor that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to that boot-shaped nation-state. The Bal Harbour Shops restaurant is particularly proud of its carpaccios, gourmet brick-oven pizza, homemade mozzarella and focaccias. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-867-7777.

Da Leo Trattoria: The first restaurant on Lincoln Road to create a true “trattoria” with “alfresco” dining, Da Leo is also famous for its “Pasta E Pasta” Tuesday nights when customers can dine on any of 12 pasta dishes, a soup and salad as well as a glass of wine for only $15.95. Location: 819 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0350.

Da Vinci: Offers Northern Italian cuisine, with specialties such as crabmeat ravioli in lobster sauce and black linguini with seafood. A pasta factory in North Bay Village provides Da Vinci with its homemade pasta. Location: 1009 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands. Phone: 305-861-8166.

Escopazzo: Guiseppe “Pino” Bodini has survived on Washington Avenue for more than 10 years by serving really good Italian food. It’s so good, Escopazzo has attracted the likes of celebs such as Bono from U2 and Lauren Hutton, as well as club owners, high-powered promoters and even other restaurateurs. Location: 1311 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9450.

George’s Italian Restaurant & Lounge: Owned by George and Eli Iglesias, George’s isn’t just a local neighborhood lounge… it is also a neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves lunch and dinner dishes such as lobster ravioli pasta, chicken picatta, pomodoro pepperocini, veal parmesan and salmon picatta pomodoro … and all at neighborhood prices. Location: 300 72nd St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-5586.

Hola Lola: This far-from-traditional Italian restaurant offers a plethora of dishes ranging from appetizers, salads and desserts to pastas, meat and fish. You name it, they’ve got it. While some dishes may sound Italian, they’re actually cooked up to have Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors. Location: 3500 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5822.

Locando Sibilla: Chef Santi is from Bologna (“The town of lasagna”). So we couldn’t pass up his mother’s recipe. It was remarkable, the lasagna, loaded with beef and a bit of pork in a sauce that was full of flavor but practically invisible, the large slice seemingly white and enticing with celery, onions, carrots and tomatoes. The Ravioli Di Gamberi Con Salsa Di Mare is stuffed with shrimp and spinach, a nice pairing that worked well. Simply put: Locando is pasta heaven. Location: 833 Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-1654.

Mama Jennie’s: Best known for its early bird specials. Your early bird meal comes with a soup or salad, soft drink and dessert. Restaurant has full dinner menu, lunch specials and salads. Food made with the finest ingredients money can buy. Also does take-out and catering. Location: 11720 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-757-3627.

Mama Mia Restaurant: This downtown Hollywood staple serves up large portions of favorites such as fettuccine carbonara and veal parmigiana, but the menu also includes more unusual fare like Hawaiian chicken and steak with cognac sauce. This eatery adds a deliciously authentic Italian touch, a perfect combination for a memorable meal. Location: 1818 S. Young Circle, Hollywood. Phone: 954-923-0555.

Master’s Italian Restaurant & Gourmet Pizza: Master’s has three menu sections dedicated to pizza: personal pizza, gourmet pizza and Sicilian pizza. Master’s also has extensive seafood, chicken, veal, pasta, casserole, sub sandwich and dessert items. Catering and takeout are also available. Location: 1720 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2763.

Oggi Café: In Italian oggi means “warm and cozy restaurant”. But it is the quality of the food that makes this award-winning restaurant so memorable. Located in a small, “cozy” shopping center in the posh North Bay Village neighborhood of Miami Beach, Oggi Caffé’s reputation for Italian specialty foods and homemade pasta has created an international following. Location: 1666 79th Street Cswy., North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-1238.

Olive Garden: Serves delicious yet affordable Italian entrées from pasta to veal to chicken. Entrées also come with a humongous house salad. Location: 18101 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-935-5742.

Osteria Del Teatro: Although located in an unlikely place, this fine Northern Italian eatery has stood the test of time by continuing to serve up some of the best dishes South Beach has to offer. Among Osteria de Teatro’s best dishes are the chef’s specials such as seafood baked with linguine, garlic, fresh tomatoes and olive oil. Try the “Twilight Special” after 10 p.m., which offers a choice of soup or salad, pasta and a glass of wine or beer for a very reasonable price. Location: 1443 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7850.

Randazzo’s Little Italy: Boxer turned chef-restaurateur Marc Randazzo takes homemade cooking to a new level. Starters such as Randazzo’s signature salad and other Italian favorites are big enough for four or more to share. Then there’s Mom’s Meatballs — made juicy and soft — served solo as an appetizer or atop four different pasta entrées. The spaghetti with Sunday gravy originated from Randazzo’s grandmother’s recipe and features an intense tomato “gravy” sauce that simmers for hours. And the signature desserts are a must. Location: 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-448-7002.

Spris La Pizzeria del Tiramesu: Just walk in and try the “Hawaiiana,” made with tomato sauce, mozzarella, sliced pineapple and ham; the “Porcini,” which consists of mozzarella, porcini mushrooms, arugula and tomato sauce; the “Melanzane” with grilled and marinated eggplant, mozzarella and tomato sauce, or maybe the “Rustica” with sliced tomatoes, garlic, mozzarella, mushrooms, black olives, oregano, basil and olive oil. Location: 731 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2020.

Sugo: Owned by the Carpaccio/Bella Luna group, Sugo is sexy, New York chic, with bamboo and metallic walls complementing the black-and-white room design, starched white cloths and napkins and a white, double-breasted jacket for each waiter, in the classic Italian style. Pasta is definitely a forte of this upscale Italian eatery. A winner is the Ravioli All ‘Inchiostro ($19.95), prepared with black, squid-ink pasta, stuffed with a marvelous crabmeat and lobster combo and topped with a very rich lobster sauce. Location: 1745 James Ave., in The Sanctuary Hotel, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-8804

Tiramesu Restaurant: The name of the game for Tiramesu’s Beat The Clock Special: Every day, seven days a week, between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., the price of each of three selected Italian meals will be reduced in price to whatever time you order. Example: Order the $12.75 regularly priced Pipette with eggplant, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, oregano and basil at 5:30, it’s yours for $5.30. Location: 721 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4538.

Toscano Grille: Tasty Italian cuisine prepared by Chef Jose Davila, first class service, a full bar and a wine cellar. Plus: one drink for free for the ladies. What more can a guy ask for? Location: 2120 Salzedo St., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-448-5111.

Trattoria Rosalia: Enjoy Italian comfort cuisine while sitting out on a sun-drenched patio. Menu includes soups, fresh salads, crisp brick-oven pizza, pastas and house specialties. Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-792-2006.

Vita: Chef Luciano Sautto is a perfectionist and he doesn’t overdo. Just by looking at the Vita menu your mouth will water and your stomach will rejoice. The menu includes items like an octopus antipasto with pumpkin, green pepper and cocoa and a seared yellow fin with caramelized onion, almonds and Caesaruolo di Vittoria syrup, it was fabulous. The food is simple, as in light and fresh. Location: 1906 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7855.

JAPANESE AND THAI

Doraku: Popular thanks to its unique Bladerunner décor, its giant saké collection and its fresh and tasty sushi dishes. This Benihana-owned eatery flies in its fresh fish daily. The result: more than 25 different fresh fish choices and numerous specials. Location: 1104 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8383.

Fuji Hana: Enjoy the exotic dishes of the Orient that feature the freshest ingredients Miami has to offer. Fuji Hana serves anything from sushi, yakitori, sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, pad Thai, curry and more. Open seven days a week. Location: 18757 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura; 11768 N. Kendall Drive, Kendall. Phone: 305-932-8080; 305-275-9003.

Hiro Japanese Restaurant: Northeast Miami-Daders from all walks of life head for this restaurant to enjoy every form of sushi and even the cooked variety of Japanese cuisine. Besides sake, Hiro has a full service bar. Location: 3007 N.E. 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-948-3687.

Hiro’s Sushi Express: Hungry for sushi and in a hurry? Zoom into Hiro’s Sushi Express and get some really good sushi and Japanese-style platters at great, low prices and served up faster than you can say sayonara. Dine in, take out or even have it delivered. And now you can place an order online for even faster service! Location: 1518 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6068. Web site: www.sushiexpress.com

Shoji Sushi: Japanese animation videos run silently over the heads of sushi preparers while lounge/R&B music plays in the background. Tasty sushi dishes prepared by chef/owner Michael Schwartz himself is served here such as spicy lobster, crispy oyster, hamachi jalapeño and spicy tuna roll. Location: 100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4245.

Sushi Room: A Sake Lounge: You can’t go wrong with Sushi Room: A Sake Lounge. The lighting is ethereal in this 14-table room. These digs are so stylish (think Louis Vuitton slipcovers), you’ll feel like you’re in a movie. The elegantly designed restaurant serves fresh sushi, prepared by world-renowned chefs from Japan — and nothing is lost in translation. Location: 1810 Young Circle, Hollywood. Phone: 954-922-1103.

SushiSamba: This establishment’s signature colors of mango, rich red, lime and gold cast a uniquely rosy glow day or night. The interior, and every dish, is created to evoke images of Brazil’s annual Carnival celebration. The menu at SushiSamba offers inventive fare that unites bold Brazilian flavors, precise Japanese technique and exquisite Peruvian culinary traditions all on one plate. Location: 600 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5337.

Sushi Siam Japanese & Thai: Specializes in sushi, Thai and Japanese cuisine with restaurants all over Miami-Dade County. Dishes include chicken katsu roll, conch kimchee roll, spicy beef salad and a house roll consisting of fried snapper, avocado, cucumber and spicy mayo. Location: 647 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 801 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami-Brickell; 5582 N.E. Fourth Court, Miami-Morningside; 1524 79th St., North Bay Village. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-672-7112; (Miami-Brickell) 305-579-9944; (Miami-Morningside) 305-751-7818; (NBV) 305-864-7638.

Tamarind Thai Restaurant: Founded by Day Longsomboon and chef Vatcharin Bhumichtr, Tamarind Thai serves authentic gourmet Thai cuisine. That means no sushi. No chow mein. Just really good Thai food. Location: 946 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-6222.

MEDITERRANEAN

Bal Harbour Bistro: Located in the Bal Harbour Shops, this charming indoor/outdoor Mediterranean café boasts location, location, location! The menu offers many different dishes including a few health-oriented and vegetarian specialties. With amenities like great service, fun people-watching, a quaint garden setting and light music on selected evenings, who could refuse? Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-861-4544.

DiLido Beach Club: The only oceanfront restaurant on South Beach, the DiLido Beach Club mixes the heritage of the Southern Mediterranean rim and the North African coast with the diverse South Beach environment to create the unique culinary experience that is “Sun Cuisine,” a term and cuisine created by executive chef Thomas Connell and carried out by chef Bernardo Espinel. One of their signature dishes, the Grilled Entrecote Steak Naan Bread Sandwich, is decorated with harissa hummus, spring onions and arugula. Location: 1 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-4000.

8½: Executive Chef/owner Jason McClain has created an inspired “creative global” menu: Moroccan-spiced calamari and Mediterranean Lamb Carpaccio, for starters. Not to mention filet mignon of veal in Serrano ham; chicken breast topped with soft, pungent feta cheese; mixed seafood ceviche of crabmeat, tuna, lobster and salmon; and tamarind oxtail. Location: 821 Washington Ave., in the Hotel Clinton, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-3850.

Mykonos: This eatery has been serving Miami some of the best homemade Greek food for more than 30 years. They even offer take-out and delivery. Location: 1201 S.W. 22nd St., Miami. Phone: 305-856-3140.

Ouzo’s: The critically acclaimed restaurant’s menu is laden with a wide variety of traditional Greek dishes at affordable prices in a light, airy, understated and decidedly friendly environment. You really can’t go wrong on the menu, whether your tastes run to souvlaki and a Greek salad, tender succulent calamari, gyros or more elaborate dishes. Location: 940 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-9848.

MEXICAN

El Rancho Grande: This family-owned restaurant has long been packing in the locals with its tasty, affordable food and full-service bar. Try some tasty enchiladas, strip steaks, fajitas and scrumptious taco dishes. El Rancho Grande also delivers and caters. Location: 1626 Pennsylvania Ave.; 314 72nd St., Miami Beach. Phone: (Pennsylvania Ave.) 305-673-0480; (72nd Street) 305-866-6516.

Lime Fresh Mexican Grill: Yes, it is possible: fast affordable Mexican food that is both tasty and healthy. Menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, fajitas, burritos, tacos, quesadillas and other items. Also serves beer, wine and margaritas. Lime expanded into North Miami Beach this year and has plans to venture into South Miami, too. Locations: 1439 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 14839 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-532-5463; (North Miami Beach) 305-949-8800.

Paquito’s Mexican Restaurant: Steak Paquito’s covered with jalapeño and onion sauce is just one of the hearty and delicious entrées to be found at this restaurant. Location: 16265 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-5027.

San Loco Mexico: Situated right in the midst of club-land, nightlifers and locals go loco for San Loco South Beach’s tacos, enchiladas and fajitas. Sauces range from mild to tongue-sizzling hot. Perfect place to go after getting a tattoo or drinking at the Deuce. Location: 235 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-3009.

Taco Rico Tex-Mex Café: Get a delicious and filling fajita lunch for less than six bucks. Taco Rico offers homemade chips with every meal, which you can dip into seven different freshly prepared salsas. And then there’s Taco Rico’s guacamole. Its popularity is second only to that of the specially grilled fajitas, which are made with a hard-to-duplicate secret recipe. Locations: 1608 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 473 S. Dixie Highway, Coral Gables. Phones: (Miami Beach) 305-673-0047; (Coral Gables) 305-663-3200.

NEW EUROPEAN AND CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN

Balans: The place for locals and visitors alike to hang out and eat linguine with tomato, shallots garlic and basil; North African grilled chicken with spiced pine nut couscous and harissa; grilled chicken breast sandwich with fine roasted peppers, or lobster club sandwich with bacon, lettuce, tomato and Florida cocktail sauce. Location: 1022 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9191.

Barrio Latino: What kind of restaurant is Barrio? A hostess answered: “Spanish, Cuban, Argentine, Mexican, all kinds.” Under one roof you can have New York strip steak Argentine style, chicken fajitas, Milanesa de Pollo (breaded breast of chicken covered with ham, tomato sauce and mozzarella), Cuban sandwich, and Masas de Cerdo (tender pork chunks served on a avocado sauce). Location: 3585 N.E. 207th St. (inside Waterways), Aventura. Phone: 305-692-4455.

Barton G: More than just a party planner, Barton G has opened his namesake restaurant at the former Starfish. Entrées include heirloom tomato soup, lobster and chorizo taco, succulent spiral seafood ravioli and sesame tuna with risotto cake. Location: 1427 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8881.

Café @ Books & Books: Nestled amid New York Times bestsellers and local titles, the café serves new South Florida cuisine by chef Bernie Matz. The day menu includes gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads and paninis. The After-Five menu features entrées such as Pan-Seared Scallops in coconut shrimp sauce and sides like Grilled Eggplant stuffed with melted queso blanco salsa. Espresso, wine and beer also are served. Location: 927 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8898.

Chef Allen’s: Started in ‘86 by chef Allen Susser, the restaurant now regularly features the “Palm Tree Cuisine” prepared by executive chef Craig Berkower. Entrée items include Fire-Roasted Rack of Shrimp, Green Herb Grilled “Rare” Yellowfin Tuna, Pistachio Crusted Black Grouper and Dry Aged Prime New York Strip. Location: 19088 N.E. 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-2900.

Mark’s South Beach: From his grilled yellowtail snapper with whitewater clams and black mussels and rack of Summerfield Farm natural lamb with crushed chestnuts and mellow goat cheese to the Surf and Turf with Maine lobster tail poached in lobster roe butter and milk-fed bacon-wrapped veal tenderloin, chef/owner Mark Militello keeps it interesting. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Location: 1120 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-9050.

Nemo: Billed as a New American restaurant, Nemo serves such dishes as Almond Braised Domestic Lamb Shank, Wok Charred Salmon and Grilled Indian-Spiced Pork Chop. Food and drinks are served in a dimly lit “business casual Fridays” sort of atmosphere, where recorded jazz can always be heard in the background. Location: 100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4550.

Old Lisbon Restaurant: This Zagat-rated-excellent restaurant serves up gourmet Portuguese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Also boasts an extensive collection of port wine. Location: 1698 S.W. 22nd St., Miami. Phone: 305-854-0039.

Ortanique on the Mile: Ortanique (the fruit) plays an intrinsic role in several of the restaurant’s drinks and dishes, from martinis to black grouper, but so do mango and papaya, guava and pimento berries. Executive chef Cindy Hutson borrowed heavily from her early background in the Jamaican seasoning and condiment business. Location: 278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-446-7710.

Peppermill at the Waterways: Former La Paloma owner Werner Staub shows what he can do in the area of Swiss cuisine at this waterfront restaurant. Location: 3595 N.E. 207th St., Aventura. Phone: 305-466-2016.

Talula: Created by husband-and-wife team Andrea and Frank Randazzo, with its all-new menu this upscale restaurant is better than ever. Try the Hamachi Ceviche, a quality yellowtail snapper, sliced in large medallions rather than chunks, chili- spiced and soy-sweetened. Or perhaps the Crispy Fried Chesapeake Bay Oysters. Location: 210 23rd St. Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-0778.

Tapas y Tintos: The restaurant and bar serves a variety of tapas, a hot or cold savory dish made with ingredients such as sausage, squid, potatoes and wine that is usually accompanied with a glass of wine. Paella, another Spanish dish, is a Tapas y Tintos house specialty. The food may even move you to dance. Live music and salsa lessons offered weekly. Location: 448 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-TAPA.

PAN-ASIAN

China Grill: Besides the occasional star sighting, this restaurant has an acclaimed “East Meets West” cuisine that includes gigantic salads, scrumptious Szechwan beef, deep-fried snapper and crispy side dishes like wok-fried spinach. The new Dragon Room specializes in sushi. Location: 404 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2211.

Indomania: Diners with a taste for something exotic can head over to Indomania, the cozy new restaurant that specializes in Dutch-Indonesian cuisine. Sample the rijstaffel or rice table: steamed rice surrounded by chicken in a tasty coconut sauce, stewed beef in kecap sauce, grilled chicken on skewer, egg in curry sauce, crispy spicy green beans, sweet and sour cucumber, and shrimp crackers. If there’s room left after all that, try the Pisang Goreng, fried banana with coconut ice cream. Location: 131 26th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-6332.

Tea For Two South: A quaint café that serves up sushi with the style of South Beach and the quality of New York. Location: 1205 17th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-0565.

World Resources: The menu spans Japan, Thailand and Vietnam and includes sushi entrées such as “Takka Don,” sushi rice decorated with tuna, and “Sushi Sashimi,” an artfully arranged sushi and sashimi combination, the “specialties of the house,” such as “Volcano Chicken,” a fried boneless chicken breast on a garden of vegetables mixed with hot sweet and sour sauce, and plenty of curry dishes. Location: 719 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8987.

PIZZA

Au Natural Gourmet Pizza: With nearly two decades in the business, Au Natural Gourmet Pizza serves a wide variety of freshly prepared pizzas with homemade ingredients, multigrain crust and tasty toppings. It’s also well known for its oven-baked subs, delicious salads, calzones, baked ziti, lasagna, wraps, and chicken and lamb gyros. Location: 1427 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7485.

Che Sopranos: Italian-Argentinean cuisine that includes pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. Location: 916 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-8989.

East Side Pizza: Serving New York-style pizza made with fresh ingredients, and topped with fast and friendly service, these pizzas are special. Location: 731 N.E. 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-783-5351.

Gino’s Pizza & Brew: Open 24 hours and delivering free to the realm of South Beach, Gino also serves jalapeño peppers, onion rings, French fries, chicken strips and “free” garlic rolls. Location: 1608 Alton Rd, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2837.

Mario the Baker: Practically an institution. New York style pizza, garlic rolls and more. Location: 13695 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami. Phone: 305-891-7641.

Med Pizza & Shish Kebab: Yep, the two things go hand in hand at this Mediterranean-style pizza shop. Location: 1240 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1919.

Mom’s New York Pizza: Serves New York-style pizza, subs, hot dogs, buffalo wings and more until 2 a.m. Location:1059 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.. Phone: 305-531-3677.

Moncheese Pizza: To make its customers go “mmmmm!” Moncheese serves gourmet pizza, pasta, sandwiches, salads, stromboli calzone, empanadas and wraps. Location: 9459 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-868-6499.

Piola: The real Italian gourmet pizzas and pastas of this establishment have become very popular with the after-movie crowd. (Like its sister establishment Pan Fiore, Piola is practically next door to SoBe’s state-of-the-art Regal megaplex.) And unlike the typical American pizzeria content with serving beer, maybe wine – Piola has a full-fledged bar. Location: 1625 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-1660.

Pizza Fiore: This pizzeria brings a piece of New York to Miami Beach with its tasty New York-style pies. Also prepares a variety of pastas, salads, subs and appetizers. Delivery, take-out, catering or dine-in with outdoor seating available. Locations: 703 71st St.; 1653 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (71st Street) 305-865-7500; (Washington) 305-672-2400.

Pizza Roma: The place to find traditional pizza, pasta dinners, veal, chicken, seafood and salads, not to mention the “Roma Dinner Delights”: pasta sampler, eggplant rollatini and cheese ravioli. Location: 19090 N.E. 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-937-4884.

Pizza Rustica: Pies are created the Roman way: using ingredients such as tomatoes, roasted potatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, pepperoni, N.Y. steak, mozzarella, asiago, provolone, sun-dried tomatoes, porcini mushrooms, BBQ chicken, sweet Italian beef sausage and, of course, anchovies. Rustica’s slices and pies, while of gourmet quality, are also not expensive. Location: 669 Lincoln Road; 863 Washington Ave.; 1400 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-8244.

Presto Pizza Café: Family-owned and operated since 1960, Presto Pizza makes its pizzas, bagels and pastas fresh daily on premises. Presto also serves homemade meatballs and chicken parmesan. Hours are 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 332 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5454

Spris La Pizzeria del Tiramesu: Just walk in and try the Hawaiana, made with tomato sauce, mozzarella, sliced pineapple and ham; the Porcini, which consists of mozzarella, porcini mushrooms, arugula and tomato sauce; the Melanzane, with grilled and marinated eggplant, mozzarella and tomato sauce; or maybe the Rustica, with sliced tomatoes, garlic, mozzarella, mushrooms, black olives, oregano, basil and olive oil. Location: 731 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2020.

Venezia Pizza & Café: Offering free delivery, Venezia serves its own brand of pies such as white pizza, veggie pizza, Venezia pizza (prosciutto, fresh sliced tomatoes and fresh basil), broiled chicken pizza and what they call “the House Special,” which consists of prosciutto, ham, onions, green peppers, fresh garlic, fresh tomato, bacon, salami and jalapeño. Location: 6646 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-2267.

RESTO-LOUNGES

B.E.D: A lot easier to say than Beverage Entertainment Dining, it’s the actual beds sprawled throughout B.E.D. that make this place distinctive. Also features the modern French culinary creations of chef Vitor Casassola, such as the famous dulce de leche soufflé. Then there’s the nightlife component featuring DJs spinning disco house, R&B, funk and other forms of musical beats. Location: 929 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9070.

Bista Bistro: The relaxed atmosphere at Brisa Bistro attracts young professionals from all over Miami-Dade County. So does the Caribbean cuisine with such dishes as Brisa’s Florida Seafood Sampler consisting of Florida lobster, grouper, dolphin, jumbo shrimp and scallops and the Caribbean Mangrove Bay Grilled Snapper served with mango relish, grilled veggies and spinach. Location: 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-714-3680.

Bond Street: A restaurant lounge, Bond Street serves up tasty nigiri sushi, maki sushi and teriyaki-style grilled sirloin your mate is sure to enjoy; and on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays an assortment of DJs serve up their brand of background music. Location: 150 20th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3800.

Bongo’s: Owned by Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Bongo’s is a Cuban restaurant-Latin dance club fusion. People have been known to stand in line for up to half an hour for a chance to dance to meringue, salsa or whatever style music the DJ decides to play. Location: 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-777-2100.

Eclipse Latin Restaurant and Lounge: DJs and karaoke are the main draws on the weekend. Ladies’ night specials such as free apple martinis are the ticket on Wednesday and Thursday nights. But it’s the surprise lunch specials — like the delicious steak for only $12.95 recently — that bring in the smart consumers. Breakfast starts at a very reasonable $4.95, and they deliver. Location: 3310 Mary St., Coconut Grove. Phone: 786-344-4228.

El Carajo International Tapas & Wines: Perhaps all you know about wines are the colors associated with them — red or white. Don’t worry; El Carajo International Tapas & Wines does not discriminate. As you wine and dine there, El Carajo International offers you the expertise of a wine connoisseur who lets you know which bottle of wine, out of their selection of more than 3,000, best goes with your choice of dinner. Location: 2465 SW 17th Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-856-2424. Web site: www.elcarajointernationaltapasandwines.com

Ivy Aventura Restaurant and Lounge: Loungy and chic, Ivy is split into several spaces decorated in creamy dark tones. Hedges wrap around an outside garden to create a dinner setting under the stars. Despite an exotic menu of seafood, pastas, pizzas and steaks, Ivy isn’t only about pleasing taste buds. Proof that a hip nightlife lounge can in fact survive in Northeast Miami-Dade, DJs keep the after-dinner crowd dancing into the night. Location: Loehmann’s Plaza, 19004 N.E. 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-932-1416.

Madame’s Restaurant and Cabaret: The cuisine is quality American comfort food. But that’s not all. Madame’s like to think of itself as a “theatrical dining experience” where servers will suddenly become your entertainer. Finding out what gender your server is can sometimes also be like playing The Crying Game. Location: 239 Sunny Isles Beach Boulevard, Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-945-2040.

Pearl: Imagine a large, low-ceilinged room done entirely in orange and white, with polka-dot tables, a wall of bubbling water, eerie purple lighting and champagne bar surrounded by chairs that resemble giant, mutant Martian seashells. Late nights, Pearl becomes prime territory for the local beautiful people, who dance cheek to chic until the wee hours. Location: One Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-1575.

Q Restaurant and Lounge: Known for its interesting art gallery openings, Q offers an eclectic menu divided into four main categories: appetizers, salads, panini and crepes. Location: 3575 N.E. 207th St., Suite B-11, Aventura. Phone: 305-931-9957.

Tantra: An Indian/Eastern atmosphere dominates this off-Washington Avenue place that has fused the decadence and music of a nightclub/lounge with the menu of a critically acclaimed restaurant. Location: 1445 Pennsylvania Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-4765.

Touch: Offers interesting floorshows (including DJs, musicians and belly dancers) and fantastic American and seafood cuisine. Location: 910 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8003.

SEAFOOD

A Fish Called Avalon: Now under the wing of Chef Joe Monteiro, this restaurant offers tasty seafood dishes such as blackened grouper served with papaya relish; the Caribbean-style lobster crab cakes are legendary. Delicious land-lover dishes include angel hair pasta with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, surrounded by grilled Portobello mushrooms. The atmosphere is business casual, with an “Art Deco” feel. Location: 700 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1727.

AltaMar: A master of oceanic food fare, its pan-roasted sea bass is light and moist without being slick. The grapefruit swordfish, marinated in mustard, ginger and herbs, then seared and placed on a bed of arugula with a baked tomato that was itself marinated in herbs and vinegar, is tender and light. Location: 1223 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-3061.

Catch of the Day: This all- in-one eatery has it all; drinks, great food, down to earth people and a catch of the day! Prices range anywhere from $5 to $50 and there’s definitely something for everyone. Location: 1050 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami. Phone: 305-446-4500.

Fico Key West: For those who want their seafood really, really fresh. Besides fish, lobster, shrimp and other sea creatures, Fico also serves pasta, Cuban steaks, grilled chicken and lots of arroz (rice) dishes. Location: 3757 W. Flagler St., Miami. Phone: 305-446-4040.

Garcia Seafood: A family-operated business for the last decade or so, Garcia Seafood likes to keep things “just plain and simple.” Garcia serves a fresh selection of stone crabs, lobster, yellowtail snapper, dolphin and other aquatic delights at affordable prices. Garcia also has a full liquor bar, outside dining and daily specials. Location: 398 NW North River Drive, Miami. Phone: 305-375-0765.

Joe’s Stone Crabs: Joe’s was the first restaurant ever to serve stone crabs as a delicacy (in 1921). Today, Joe’s is one of the most sought-after restaurants, where VIPs of all types crack a few claws and the regular folk wait in the lobby for hours for a table. Location: 11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-4611.

Key West by the Gables: This seafood market and grill offers a variety of seafood, sandwiches and salads. Open for lunch and dinner. Location: 2238 S.W. 57th Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-262-0205.

Monty’s: Famous for its “all you can eat” stone crab specials and for raw oyster and clam bars. Location: 300 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1148.

SOUTH AMERICAN

Basil in the Grove: Basil’s menu is mostly an ode to the culinary delights of Brazil — many steak dishes, yucca sides and shrimp stews. But Basil also serves organic produce and free-range poultry, whenever possible, as well as lunch standards like prosciutto and tomato sandwiches. Laid-back locals will also love the affordable cost of dining at Basil’s: Entrées run between $9 and $14. In between Mango Struts, Grove throwbacks will be happy to dine at Basil’s for a taste of something familiar. Location: 3301 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove. Phone: 305-444-4848.

Campo Argentino: Authentic Argentine cuisine is served at this restaurant specializing in steaks such as churrasco. Ask the waiter for nightly poultry and fish specials. Not only do they give a taste of the country here but the décor inside resembles a place you might find in the Argentine countryside. Location: 6954 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-5951

Canela Café: Serves what the owner likes to call Latin soul food — basically reasonably priced Latin fusion/Spanish cuisine. Open from noon to 11:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Location: 5132 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-756-3930.

Chalan on the Beach: Chalan has its Peruvian specialties like lomo saltado (sautéed beef with onions, tomato and French fries) and tallarines verdes con bistec (green spaghetti with beef). Also known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes like pescado sudado (poached filet of fish), pescado sudado mixto (poached mixed fish) and tallarin saltado de mariscos (spaghetti with seafood). Location: 1580 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8880.

Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill: A variety of ceviches with flavors from Latin America and prime quality steaks with an array of salsas from smoked chipotles to Peruvian aji amarillo. Location: 3067 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove. Phone: 305-444-0216.

Manolo: This South American eatery’s menu includes churros, sandwiches, cakes, burgers and pizzas. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Location: 7300 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-4381.

Mi Colombia: Colombian food and products. Try the homemade empanadas. Open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Location: 702 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-1013.

New San Telmo: For meats, pastas and seafood there is New San Telmo (named for one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods). It has a lunch menu ranging from $5.99 to $7.99. How does Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon with bleu cheese sauce sound? Delivery available from Hallandale to 71st Street. Open 11:45 a.m. to midnight seven days. Location: 16850 Collins Ave., #102, Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-957-0006.

Parrilla Liberty: This friendly, family-owned Argentine steak house in the heart of the Art Deco District serves up authentic steaks and meats from that country way down south. Location: 1925 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-0099.

Parrillada Las Carnes Argentinas: Want meat cooked the Argentine way? Parrillada has tasty dishes that won’t bankrupt you. The carnivorous diner will love the Parrillada Para consisting of sausage, blood sausage, sweetbread and “different kinds of meat.” Those into lighter fare can try Pollo Primavera (grilled chicken breast with salad balsamic) or the Pollo Madonna (grilled chicken breast with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese). Those not into meat may try a salad, vegetable or pasta dish. Location: 1533 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0102.

Porcao: Whether you’re craving protein or just on a major Atkins binge, Porcao is our pick for the place to stuff your face. With its unlimited selection of red meat, pork, chicken and more, $43 takes you a long way here. Plus, the rodizio offers a fresh selection of salads, sushi, seafood, cheeses, vegetables, fruits and desserts. If you want more meat, just flip the card to the green side. Stuffed? Flip to the red. Oh, Porcao has lunch specials and vegetarian rodizio available as well. Location: 801 Brickell Bay Drive, Miami. Phone: 305-373-2777.

Rancho Argentino: What better (or more affordable) way of fulfilling any appetite than a large gourmet buffet, including a variety of Argentine steaks and desserts? At Rancho Argentino, you can expect large portions of great quality. Location: 1415 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7205.

Sabores Chilenos on the Beach: Chilean menu includes pescado a la parrilla (fish on the grill), bistec de lomo a lo podre (eight ounce sirloin steak with two eggs, French fries and sautéed onions), or (for dinner parties of two or more) a parrilladas with chinchulines, molleja and papas cocidas (blood sausage, sauce and beef ribs). Location: 1760 W. Flagler, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-7036.

Wish: Under executive chef E. Michael Reidt, Wish is rising to the next level with a French-Brazilian menu that includes items such as cachaca-marinated tuna with seared watermelon and smoked duck salad with spiced cherries. Located inside The Hotel on Collins Avenue, Location: 801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9474.

STEAK HOUSES

Forge: A gourmet restaurant of the first caliber, the Forge serves some of the best steak dishes in South Florida and has a phenomenally huge wine selection. Ask for any bottle of wine in the world and chances are they have it in their secret climate-controlled wine cellar. Example: A Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Paullac 1961 priced at $2,090. Location: 432 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-8533.

Harrison’s Steakhouse: Returning after renovations, Harrison’s Steakhouse features fine prime aged steaks and a scrumptious selection of seafood. Smoke? Harrison’s has outdoor and patio seating to accommodate its nicotine-loving diners. Location: 411 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-4600.

Raleigh Restaurant: Renowned for its slow-roasted 20-ounce, king-cut prime rib. Location: 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-612-1116.

Scorch Grillhouse: American international with Latin flavor. Indoor and outdoor dining, big screen TV, casual atmosphere. Location:13750 Biscayne Blvd. North Miami. Phone: 305-949-5588.

Shula’s Steak House: Don Shula may no longer be coaching football, but this sports icon still has a damn good steak house. Every side of beef in this restaurant is juicy, scrumptious and delicious. The prize of them all is the famous 48-ounce porterhouse and, if you finish it, your feat will be eternally commemorated with a wall plaque. Location: 5225 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-341-6565.

Smith & Wollensky: Located within the high-rise-obscured park known as South Pointe, Smith & Wollensky serves up regular sirloin, dry-aged steaks and a tender yet massive rib eye. Location: 1 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2800.

Tuscan Steak: One of the region’s most established steakhouses, with an Italian flair, Tuscan serves chef Barbara Scott’s entrées in a casual elegant ambiance. Not in the mood for cow? Try grilled Tuscan country chicken infused with sage and gnocchi with Gorgonzola cream sauce and garlic-sautéed spinach. Location: 433 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2233.

Real Estate

ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Bonet Trends: Housed in a 4,600-square-foot show space, Bonet Trends is one of the hottest leaders of the Miami design scene. Founder Conrad Bonet brings more than 20 years of design experience and is a professional member of the International Interior Design Association. He employs a professional design team, with which Bonet Trends has tackled some coveted high-profile projects like the Grand Bay Hotel in Coconut Grove and the Regency Resort & Spa in Hallandale. Location: 1036 S.W. Eighth St., Miami. Phone: 305-859-7929. Web site: www.bonettrends.com.

Diversified Construction and Restoration, Inc.: Furnishes state of the art masonry restoration and masonry construction services to clients in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties. The company also continues to invest in the most modern equipment and remain up to date on the latest techniques and materials. Location: 13525 S.W. 288th St., Homestead. Phone: 305-246-4306. Web site: www.diversifiedinc.us.

Eco-Tek Power Corp.: This Miami Beach-based company specializes in engineering and installing automatic standby generators. Location: 106 W. Fourth Court, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-2410.

Floridian Furniture: Will furnish and decorate your home “as if you had truly traveled around the world.” Employs a team of buyers, designers and decorators. Also provides space planning, color and fabric selection. Location: 4795 S.W. Eighth

St., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-448-2639. Web site: www.floridianfurniture.com.

Graphic Design Whenever, Inc.: Looking to get noticed? Whenever Inc. offers unique and elegant custom design for Realtors. From advertising, brochures, flyers and postcards to letters, logos, business cards and stationery, Whenever Inc. creates the promotional materials you need to stand out from the rest. Phone: 305-666-9402.

Kobi Karp Architecture: Kobi Karp has built himself a reputation in South Florida for being the most adaptable architect in the industry due to his adaptive styles. Is also quite good at listening, or arguing, points made by various land use boards. Location: 2915 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200, Miami. Phone: 305-573-1818. Web site: www.kobikarp.com

Levine, Calderin & Associates: Richard Levine and Pepe Calderin are the creative forces behind Levine, Calderin & Associates, an architectural, planning and interior design firm. Private clients include individuals living in swank areas such as Fisher Island, Grove Isle and The Jockey Club. Commercial projects have included the city of Miami Beach City Hall; several jobs in posh Long Island, NY; and Towers of Quayside residences in Miami. Location: 4141 N.E. Second Ave., Suite 103, Miami. Phone: 305-576-0254. Web site: www.levinecalderin.com.

Oceanview Shades and Drapery: Owned by Lynn Sampson, Oceanview specializes in draperies, valances, plantation shutters, solar shades, soft shades, tropical wood blinds and even motorization. So if you are looking for a proper window treatment makeover for your portals to the outside world, give Oceanview Shades and Drapery a call. Incidentally, Lynn Sampson also does custom bedding, upholstery, wallpaper and specialty wall finishes. Location: 62 N.E. 40th St., Miami. Phone: 305-478-0024. Web site: www.oceanviewshades.com.

Peter’s Doors: Rene and Peter Larralde will give you a quality door for the "lowest prices around." We’re talking metal, fiberglass, wood, leaded glass, French, molding, baseboard, etc. Location: 800 N.W. 36th St., Miami. Phone: 305-637-8658.

NMC Design: Specializing in space-planning, design and installation of multifaceted projects for a variety of residential clients, this Miami Beach-based interior design firm closely supervises all projects from start to finish. In addition, upholstery and furniture creation services are also offered. Location: 1334 Euclid Ave., Suite 9, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-399-2737. Web site: www.nmcdesign.com.

Ramon Pacheco and Associates Inc.: Established in 1989, this architecture and planning firm has since caught the attention and contracts of many celebrity clients, including the Estefans. Ramon Pacheco has created luxury residences throughout the United States, Central America and South America in diverse styles ranging from Bermuda, to Colonial, to Neo Traditional. Location: 4990 S.W. 72nd Ave., Suite 101, Miami. Phone: 305-666-2573.

South Beach Design Group: A full-service interior design firm that handles residential and commercial projects, the company also offers a 3,500-square-foot showroom. Co-founder Christopher Raessler counts celebs such as Patti LaBelle, Creed and Danny Glover among his client roster. Location: 701 Lincoln Road, #105, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8800.

S. Ross & Company: In business since 1956, S. Ross & Company knows how to dress up a window. They creatively use custom shades, draperies, blinds and upholstery to spruce up any home or business. Location: 946 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-5454.

The Taylor and Taylor Partnership: Specializes in styling one-of-a-kind living environments ranging from a Mediterranean villa to a South Beach pied-à-terre. With 20 years of joint endeavors in the field and 25 years of marriage, William and Phyllis Taylor host an expert staff of architects and interior designers of the highest quality. Location: 1211Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9862. Web site: www.taylorntaylor.com.

ArTech: Designed by Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott and South Florida architect Charles Benson, ArTech is a 900-foot-long building, taking full advantage of the waterfront where it will be situated, while the structure’s overall look complements that of the yachts that will be moored on its docks in the building’s private marina. Location: 2999 N.E. 191st St., Aventura. Phone: 305-466-2600.

Caribbean: Christa Construction & Development has been busy renovating a 1941 Art Deco classic called the Caribbean. Sharing the same mid-Beach compound will be a brand-new crystalline tower. Although the two buildings may be opposites in personality and era, special care was taken to ensure that they synergistically co-exist with each other and their neighborhood. Once completed, the united property will boast beach access as well as a heated pool and spa. Rounding out the amenities are a 24-hour concierge, a wine vault and high-speed elevators. Location: 3737 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-3202.

Edgewater South Beach: Furnished condos on Ocean Drive with units starting in the $450,000s. Location: 1410 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-7673. Web site: www.edgewatersouthbeach.com.

Palm Court: Renovated by Ron Bloomberg and located in the City Center Museum Historic District, this newly renovated 35,000 square foot pristine example of Mediterranean revival architecture contains a mixture of retail space and office space. Location: 309 23rd St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9090.

Mei: Will take its place on the last parcel of oceanfront land on Miami Beach’s Millionaire Row. Each resident will enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean since residences will begin at the fifth floor. Bali-meets-Miami is the theme for Mei’s design, bringing traditional Indonesian style together with contemporary concepts. Location: 5875 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-0081. Web site: www.meimiamibeach.com.

Metropolitan Miami: Developed by MDM Group USA, Metropolitan Miami consists of the 40-story hi-tech residential tower Met 1, the 76-story residential condo Met 3, the soon-to-be-announced Met 2 and an atrium style entertainment complex dubbed Met Square. Location: 301 S.E. Third Avenue, Miami. Phone: 305-960-9990. Web site: metropolitanmiami.com.

Midtown Miami: The $2.3 billion, self-contained community in the heart of Miami consists of eight residential high-rises, office condominiums and a hotel comprise this “city within a city” to accommodate all life’s travelers. For entertainment, a varied shopping area offers odds and ends for everyone, and when the sun hits the horizon, stimulating nightlife options generate a fun time within the great new “city.” Location: 3110 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-757-0001.

Mountainside: Escape the continuous hike in real estate prices, the congested morning and afternoon traffic in Miami and build your home where it’s so affordable and quiet you can hear the water running over rocks in the creek, in the mountains of Virginia. Plan your escape and start building your home on a five-acre parcel of land for as low as $59,500. Location: 10 minutes from Galax in southwestern Virginia. Phone: 866-789-8535. Web site: www.mountainsofvirginia.com.

 Palm Bay Studios: Consisting of 20 studies between 1,000 and 14,000 square feet in size. Can be used for commercial purposes such as offices, retail, storage and even religious purposes. Location: Between N.E. 59th Street and 59th Terrace. Phone: 305-798-1200.

Regatta: This 52-unit residence is being developed by G&D Developers. Regatta’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer mural-like views of the downtown skyline, the bay and Intracoastal Waterway. Residents can enjoy a waterfront swimming pool, spa, sauna and fitness center, all overlooking 170-feet of waterway, with covered parking and a 24-hour concierge and valet service. Location: 6580 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-7899. Web site: www.regattamiami.com.

Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, South Beach: Spaciously proportioned condos are separated into three towers: Tower A is 20 stories, with each unit a half-sphere encompassing approximately 2,000 square feet of living space; Tower B is 15 stories, of which the first four are Ritz-Carlton timeshares and the fifth and higher floors are condo apartments; and Tower C is 17 stories with three units per floor. Location: 2901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 800-221-5780. Web site: www.ritzcarlton.com.

River Garden Condominium: Locating in Spring Garden. River Garden will be 27 stories tall with 199 residences offering between one and three bedrooms. Location: 1035 N.W. 11th Court, Miami. Phone: 305-545-5570. Web site: www.rivergardencondos.com.

Roger Shields, Keller Williams Real Estate: Specialized professional and experienced advice is needed when buying and selling commercial/income real estate. Enter Roger Shields and his team of experts. Phone: 786-306-3530. Web site: www.rogershields.com.

St. Tropez: Developed by J. Milton and Associates, the three towers that make St. Tropez is nestled in Sunny Isles Beach and overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway and an amazing waterfront pool complete with gardens, sundeck and outdoor entertainment area. Location: 330 Sunny Isles Boulevard, Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-692-8500. Web site: www.sttropezcondominiums.com.

Southgate Towers Apartments: With real estate prices seemingly rising by the day, Southgate Towers Apartments still offers an affordable rental community for those looking to move to the Beach. Offering studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, this community also features a pool, clubhouse, covered parking, fitness center, laundry room and much more. Location: 900 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2412.

Terrazas River Park Village: Consisting of 324 residences divided between two towers 27 and 21 stories tall, Terrazas River Park Village is centrally located near Miami’s medical center, downtown area and Brickell Avenue as well as near Coral Gables. Location: 2900 S.W. 28th Lane, Miami. Phone: 305-347-5999.

Trump Hollywood: Developed by Jorge Perez of the Related Group, in partnership with Donald Trump, Trump Hollywood will be a 40-story glass tower designed by Robert Swedroe. The spacious residences will start at $1.5 million. Location: 2711 S. Ocean Drive, Hollywood. Phone: 1-888-678-7661. Web site: www.trumphollywood.com.

Unika: Amenities include a landscaped sun deck on the 8th Floor, infinity edge pool overlooking Biscayne Bay, lounges and relaxation areas and terraces with contemporary furniture. Location: 4300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-576-1799. Web site: www.unikaresidences.com

CONSULTING, DEVELOPER REPS AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

David L. Wrubel, CPA, PA: Has provided accounting services for hundreds of real estate agents and brokerage firms such as Carson Realty Group, Affordable Real Estate/Affordable Condos, Ocean International Realty, DRSRE, and Samson Conley Select Properties. His reputation is so highly regarded that he has been invited to present and teach seminars for The Real Estate Association of Miami and the Beaches. Location: 560 Lincoln Road, Suite 304, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-4272. Web site: www.cpa-fl.com.

Developer Sales Group: A boutique interactive sales and marketing organization specializing in the South Florida and Houston real estate industry, DSG is focused on providing the developer with qualified leads and, in turn, driving traffic to facilitate sales. The approach bridges the gap between the developer and client by creating first level preferred pricing situations which assists developers in selling out completely. Utilizes the latest, cutting edge marketing tactics and technology. Since the launch of DSG in August 2005, DSG has made transactions in excess of $450 million. Phone: 305-571-8530. Web site: http://developersalesgroup.com/index.htm

Financial Advisors Network: More than 20 years in the financial market gives Financial Advisors Network the experience to provide clients with varied financial investment options. They work with clients in investment management and stock brokerage. Location: 1395 Brickell Ave., Eighth Floor, Espirito Santo Plaza, Miami. Phone: 305-529-6271.

La Playa Properties: With affiliate offices in Mexico and Argentina, La Playa Properties offers global services and marketing as well as high-end real estate specializing in advising foreign nationals in all of their real estate acquisitions. Location: 1247 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-0773.

Prodigy International Development Sales: Rodrigo Niño’s Prodigy International has surpassed the competition with unique strategies and an excellent marketing team. Offering mailers, launch invites, events at exclusive locales like Casa Casuarina and detailed brochures, Prodigy really covers all the bases. Location: 1441 Brickell Ave. Suite 1210, Miami. Phone: 305-379-4424. Web site: www.prodigynetwork.com

Regatta Real Estate Management: In addition to finding tenants, Regatta Real Estate Management can also provide management services. This includes collecting rent from tenants and either placing it into a property management escrow account (used to pay the bills clients authorize) or depositing it directly into the property owner’s account. Regatta also provides detailed financial reports on a monthly basis. If a tenant has any problems they call the office. Regatta will also prepare units for re-rental. Location: 309 23rd St., Suite 300, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-1940. Web site: www.regattarealestate.com.

DEVELOPERS AND DEVELOPMENT COMPANIES

Andi and Scott Greenwald: These two are responsible for putting the sizzle back in South Beach with major real estate projects such as Indigo Lofts on the Bay, Bally, Industry, the Lexi and Tribeca West. Location: 1935 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-6005.

Chrisken Real Estate: Has done over 50 historic conversions and restorations and about 20 years of experience in the market. Location: 1450 Meridian Ave., Suite 9, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1600. Web site: www. chriskenrealty.com.

Puig Development Real Estate Group: Offering an extensive portfolio of renovated resort-style properties throughout Florida, Puig Development Real Estate Group is a one-stop shop for those with buying/selling on their minds. The Group’s motto is to provide an affordable alternative in areas where the prices of homes have skyrocketed Location: 6060 W. 21st Court, Hialeah. Phone: 305-819-7300. Web site: www.puigdevelopment.com.

Resnick Properties: The late Abe Resnick was one of the most prolific local developers in Miami Beach, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, during a time when home builders didn’t want to invest in the area. As a result Resnick Properties, now run by son James “Jimmy” Resnick has more than 70 commercial and residential buildings, particularly on Washington Avenue and Alton Road. Phone: 305-673-4981.

Restless Development: New York-based Restless Development recently converted Waterview Courtyards located just 420 feet of prime waterfront in North Miami Beach. The 94 units are said to go for at least $10,000 below market price. Location: 11 S. High St., Tuckahoe, New York. Phone: 914-325-4383.Web site: www.restlessrestoration.com.

Ronald Bloomberg, BSG Development Corp.: In addition to his project Palm Court, and a new medical facility at the former police building, Bloomberg developed 6000 Indian Creek, the mid-rise loft-style project Terra Beachside Villas and Cabana, a MiMo restoration project on the Atlantic Ocean. Phone: 305-867-6669. Web site: www.bsgdevelopment.com.

South Beach Hotel Group: Alan Lieberman’s South Beach Hotel Group has seven Art Deco boutique hotels right in the midst of Miami Beach’s bustling entertainment district. South Beach Group Hotels offer accommodations from economy hotels suited for the budget minded traveler to upscale hotels that accommodate the most sophisticated visitors. Phone: 1-877-762-3477. Web site: www.southbeachgroup.com.

SG3 Developers, LLC: The company doesn’t have to be trendy to make a name for themselves. Not with a project of 32 nearly complete waterfront warehouse/office condos at 202nd Street and N.W. Second Avenue already sold out. Location: 200 N.W. 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-759-7400.

Shefaor Development: Already claiming more than $2 billion in sales, Shefaor specializes in luxury high-rise residential condominium, single family home, retail and mixed-use projects. The company is currently managing the construction of $100 million-sold-out Uptown Marina Lofts and the sales for ArTech. Shefaor’s latest projects include Lincoln Point in Aventura, various single-family homes in Hollywood and developing 90 acres of waterfront in the Dominican Republic. Location: 18850 N.E. 29th Avenue, Suite 1001, Aventura. Phone: 305-935-5050.

Tibor Hollo, Florida East Coast Realty: More than 30 years ago, Tibor Hollo forged a path for the future of Miami by constructing the first high-rise building on Brickell Avenue. The chairman and CEO of Florida East Coast Realty, Hollo’s residential, hotel and mixed-use buildings proliferate the Omni/Venetia area and the Brickell corridor: FECR’s latest projects include the Opera Tower, a 56-story, elliptically shaped, 635-unit building, situated next to Margaret Pace Park along Biscayne Bay. Delivery is expected at the end of 2007. Location: 100 S. Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 1100, Miami. Phone: 305-358-7710. Web site: www.fecr.com.

The Citadel Group: A real estate development company specializing in the restoration and conversion of historic properties in South Florida. Founded by George Befeler, The Citadel Group seeks to provide clients with homes offering the latest in contemporary urban living while building on the region’s architectural heritage and respecting the existing character of the vintage properties Citadel restores. Location: 3326 Mary Street, Suite 402, Miami. Phone: 786-552-9780. Web site: www.citadelgroupmiami.com

The Related Group: For more than a quarter of a century the Related Group of Florida has been building or managing 55,000 condos and apartments throughout Florida. Founded by Jorge Perez, the Florida branch of The Related Group now has a reputation for its luxury condos, affordable rental properties and mixed-use centers. Its current portfolio includes projects valued in excess of $10 billion with reported sales of more than $2.1 billion in 2004. Location: 315 S. Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-460-9900.

MORTGAGES AND TITLE SERVICES

Elite Mortgage: Offers an array of competitive mortgage programs for rate and term, home improvements or cash out. The company prides itself on closing every mortgage because of the many lender choices it has to offer throughout the United States. Donna Nortell, president and owner, founded Elite Mortgage in 1995. Location: 407 Lincoln Road, 9-I, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-235-0888. Web site: www.elitemortgage.net.

Foreclosure Relief Team: JFA Realty, Great Florida Lending and Sunshine Florida Title are putting their extensive foreclosure experience together. The Foreclosure Relief Team caters to the specific needs of its unique customers while maintaining the classical approach to service, confidentiality, and respect. Phone: 305-644-8880.

Genesys Funding: Provides refinancing for new condo projects, commercial projects, condo hotels and foreign nationals. Offers 100 percent financing at rates starting at 1 percent. Specializes in “super jumbo loans.” Phone: 305-336-7050 or 305-978-6662.

Guardian Title: Established since 1958, Guardian Title updates titles, creates abstracts, perform document searches and sets up title insurance. Location: 1533 Sunset Drive, Suite 150, Miami. Phone: 305-668-1638.

H.R. Mortgage: Led by Henry Rodstein, H.R. Mortgage works with an international network of banks, credit companies, finance companies, and both private and institutional lenders to bring capital resources to commercial real estate markets nationwide. The firm secures financing for a wide range of properties, including multifamily (rental and condominium), retail, office, industrial, hospitality, senior housing, healthcare, self-storage and land. Location: 444 Brickell Ave., Suite 212, Miami. Phone: 305-789-9922. Web site: www.hrmortgage.com.

Hayhurst Mortgage: Founded by Patricia Hayhurst, Hayhurst Mortgage handles all types of mortgage loans, from conventional and FHA to commercial and jumbo loans. Hayhurst’s mission is to be the highest quality mortgage lender in Florida by providing exceptional personal service and mortgage programs at the best rates. Company also has a title division, Hayhurst Title Services. Location: 2601 S. Bayshore Drive, Suite 250, Miami; 6839 Main St. (Branch Office), Miami Lakes. Phone: 1-800-786-8963. Web site: www.hayhurstmortgage.com

Urban Land Title: Headed by Jennifer Estrumsa, Urban Land Title serves brokers, lenders, Realtors, developers, home sellers and buyers, striving to provide “superior quality with outstanding customer service at competitive prices.” Location: 701 S.W. 27th Ave., Suite 605, Miami. Phone: 305-646-3521. Web site: www.urbanlandtitle.com.

Value Financial: Specializing in reverse mortgages, this company has locations in Florida, Texas and Ohio. Assists cash-strapped homeowners in avoiding the foreclosure process. Location: 660 N.W. 116th St., North Miami. Phone: 305-688-1888.

REALTY COMPANIES:

Aquablue Realty: The boutique company’s focus is waterfront and preconstruction properties in Miami Beach and Miami, as well as condo conversions. With staff fluent in six languages, the company is able to work with a range of clientele. Location: 411 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3232. Web site: www.aquabluerealty.com

Arcadia Real Estate: Madeleine Romanello and her team of real estate professionals constantly monitor market trends and conditions to ensure their clients get the best deal possible. With nearly a decade in the Miami Beach marketplace, Romanello has extensive knowledge of the area’s communities and neighborhoods. She specializes in matching buyers with the perfect home at the right price. Location: 725 N.E. 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-756-2622. Web site: www.realmiamibeach.com

Axis Realty Group: Sales associates offer one-on-one personalized service through the individual attention of a local boutique firm. Sales associates also have a passion for modern architecture and are always on the search for architecturally significant properties for sale. The result is a closer link between buyers and sellers of modern and historic properties. Location: 407 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-2034. Web site: www.axisrealtygroup.com.

Azure Realty Group: Adrienne Klein and her team listens to and is focused to your individual needs and keeps them on her priority list through out the entire real estate process. Location: 740 N.E. 79th Street, Miami. Phone: 305-756-7674. Web site: www.AzureRealtyGroup.com.

Avatar Real Estate Services: Specializing in luxury real estate, Avatar’s philosophy is that real estate is a “trust business.” Earning each client’s trust and keeping it is the key to Avatar’s success. Location: 2665 S. Bayshore Drive, Suite 102, Miami. Phone: 1-888-678-1398. Web site: www.AvatarFlorida.com.

Beach House Realty: A real estate and mortgage company focusing on the needs of local and international clients. As such, agents here staff speak English, Spanish, French, Italian and Russian. Beach House Realty specializes in the South Florida market including but not limited to Sunny Isles, Miami Beach, Aventura, Miami, Hallandale, Hollywood, Bal Harbour, Fort Lauderdale and other areas. Location: 17100 Collins Ave., Suite 110 and 208, Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-947-1114. Web site: www.bhmiami.com.

Campins Company: Many people know who Katrina Campins is because she was on television, with Donald Trump. Receiving her real estate license at 18, by the time she was 20 Campins was a top producer for Wimbish-Riteway and later for Jeanne Baker Realty. Now the president of her own company, the Campins Company, she is representing some of the hottest properties in South Florida, including the best boutique condo-hotel, The Sanctuary. Location: 603 Lincoln Road, Suite 300, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-493-5652. Web site: www.katrinacampins.com.

Carson Realty Group (CRG): Services include residential, commercial, re-sale properties, new developments (condos and apartments), condo conversions, single family homes and luxury residencies, plus all types of commercial properties and resort properties around the globe. CRG’s expertise serves buyers and sellers from beyond its home base in Miami, to New York City and international locations. Location: (Miami Beach Headquarters) 1626 Jefferson Avenue, Miami Beach, (Miami Office Headquarters) 2010 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-531-9277, (Miami) 305-576-5776. (Toll free) 1-888-576-5776. Web site: www.getcarson.com.

Cervera Real Estate: With three decades of experience, Cervera Real Estate bills itself as an “industry-leading organization with a stronghold around South Florida’s electrifying market.” The firm was started in 1979 by Alicia Cervera, who was later joined by her two daughters, so it’s safe to say they have been in the business for quite some time. Company has more than 140 real estate agents. Location: 1492 S. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-374-3434. Web site: www.cervera.com.

Fortune International Realty: Founded in 1983 by the Defortuna Family. Since then, the company has expanded to include brokerage activities, property management, financing, new development sales and Fortune International proprietary developments such as Jade Residences at Brickell Bay, Le Meridien Resort, The Bridgewater, 1110 Brickell, Jade Beach, Jade Ocean among others. Has 17 offices with more than 850 associates. Location: (main office) 2666 Brickell Avenue, Miami. Phone: 305-856-2600.

Hudson Capital LLC: An integrated real estate company focused on the acquisition, construction and development of residential multifamily apartment complexes into condominiums. Formed in 2004, Hudson Capital has more than 4,000 units in various stages of development. Location: 4770 Biscayne Blvd., Fourth Floor, Miami. Phone: 305-674-4848. Web site: www.hudcap.com.

Keller Williams Miami Beach Realty: Specializing in residential real estate, Keller Williams’ Realtors are trained through a curriculum that keeps their associates ahead of trends and aware of tools and advancements in the real estate industry. Agents are motivated by rewards geared toward service of their clients, as Keller Williams “was founded on the principles of trust and honesty, emphasizing the importance of having integrity to do the right thing and always putting our client’s need first,” according to the company’s mission statement. Location: 1680 Meridian Ave., #100, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-1112. Web site: www.kw.com

Koniver Stern Group: By bringing together an array of talented individuals with experience in all aspects of retail, Koniver Stern has created a dynamic company that provides clients a blend of real-world business acumen and experienced creative problem solving. Koniver Stern’s distinct approach to real estate eschews the “let’s close the deal fast” mentality and instead focuses on achieving something even more important - success in the retail market and an impeccable level of client service. Location: 1655 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-6100. Web site: www.koniversterngroup.com.

Lawrence International Realty: This father-son real estate team combines more than 35 years of South Florida real estate expertise. Helps clients buy, sell or investing in an income-producing property. Location: 3137 N.E. 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-944-1002. Web site: www.realtylawrence.com

Majestic Properties: If you’re looking for not only selling and buying assistance but also an in-house brokerage firm and design component, Majestic Properties is your one-stop shop. Location: 35 N.E. 40th St., Suite 301, Miami. Phone: 305-677-5025.

McMillan Realty, Inc.: Matt McMillan goes by the philosophy of personalized customer service, meaning every customer who walks through his doors gets the best attention and care. With an average listing price of more than $3 million, McMillan Realty, Inc. caters to the wealthy and high-profile elite. Location: 940 Lincoln Road, Suite 222, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7311.

IVR Realty, Inc.: Specializes in Florida oceanfront and luxury real estate properties. Has an extensive selection of residences in South Florida’s upscale areas, including Miami Beach, Brickell, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables/Coconut Grove and Sunny Isles. Location: 1451 Ocean Drive, Suite 104, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-4808. Web site: http://www.ivrrealty.com/.

Metro 1 Properties Inc.: Collaboration of Realtors and marketing pioneers with a mission to represent, lease and manage Metropolitan Miami properties. The company also seeks to promote the growth and prosperity of Miami’s urban core. Location: 120 N.E. 27th Street, Bay 200, Miami. Phone: 305-571-9991. Web site: www.metro1properties.com.

Miami Group Realty: Dedicated to the South of Fifth Street neighborhood (also known as South Pointe) in Miami Beach. “We know, through our years of experience that to be an effective realtor one must specialize in a given area in order to be most beneficial to our customers,” the company Web site states. “Why the SoFi area? Well, it’s simple: we work here, we live here and we play here.” Location: 427 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-253-2222. Web site: www.miamigrouprealty.com.

New Star Realty: Founded by Andrea Silverthorne, New Star Realty has offices in Naples, Hollywood, Hobe Sound, Coconut Creek and Miami Beach. handles properties that offer everything from historic charm and/or oceanfront luxury, to income properties and condominium conversion projects. Location: 701 4th Street, Suite 200, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-2299.

Ocean View International Realty: Armando Diaz, a licensed real estate and mortgage broker and Certified International Property Specialist, founded Ocean View International Realty in 2000 with his wife, Yolanda Concepcion-Diaz. Sales managers Sheryl Shoup and Terri Cantu are leading the Ocean View team at the new Miami Shores office. The team is expanding its convenient “one-stop” real estate services for buyers and sellers in the Biscayne Boulevard corridor. In just six years one office in North Miami has grown to 17 offices and more than 1,600 sales associates throughout Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Location: 11900 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 200, North Miami. Phone: 305-981-4682. Web site: www.oceanviewintl.com.

Related Cervera Realty Services : With projects all over the map, including 2080 Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, Boca Grand in Boca Raton and The Tower Condominium in West Palm Beach, RCRS will find just what you want for your new abode. Location: 1155 Brickell Bay Dive, #102, Miami. Phone: 305-373-9333.

ReMax Beach Properties: Affiliated with one of the largest real estate organizations, with more than 70,000 agents. Beach Properties offers internet, MLS and Realtor.com participation for all properties. Has a multi-lingual staff and agents. Location: 1355 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 672 E. Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Hallandale Beach. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-695-1515, (Hallandale Beach) 954-883-3700. Web site: www.remax-bp-miami-fl.com.

ReMax Ultra Realty Group: Establishing itself as the Sunshine State’s premier real estate company, ReMax agents each average more than 10 years of real estate experience. 70 percent of their business comes from repeat business or customer referrals. Location: 19066 N.E. 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-932-1771. Web site: www.remax-florida.com.

Revo Realty: Specializing in investment property, Revo Realty educates both foreign and domestic investors on Miami’s prime real estate. The company prides itself on providing personal service, choosing to work with each client on an individual basis. Location: 25 S.E. Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-371-8668.

Riviera Realty Associates: Small independent brokerage focused on luxury residential real estate. Has offices in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Jacksonville counties. Location (Miami-Dade): 1800 NE 114th Street, Miami. Phone: 305-335-2309.

South Beach Estates: Established by Kimberly Henry, the company has an emphasis on first-class service and strives to bring its clients a new approach to marketing. Location: 1260 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-8060. Web site: www.southbeachestates.com.

South Beach Investment Realty: Since her arrival on the South Florida real estate scene 15 years ago, Diane Lieberman has risen to the top by having an eye for the right property and the determination to achieve her goals. Her company, South Beach Investment Realty, can be credited with the sell-out of a long list of condo-hotels. Location: 828 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-7771. Web site: www.sbirealty.com.

Sports and Entertainment Realty Advisors: When the Bee Gees’ sold their South Beach recording studio to Goldwater Realty for $2.75 million, SE Realty’s Frank Reilly handled both sides of the sale. Reilly, Eric Levin, former Miami Dolphin Louis Oliver and Robert Ziehm heads this firm of 30 international professionals from three South Florida offices. Location: 846 Lincoln Road, 5th floor, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-9686. Web site: www.semiami.com.

South Pointe Properties: Offering professional, knowledgeable, discreet and friendly services, this group can help in your search for luxury condos, residential real estate, waterfront property, vacant land or commercial real estate. Serving the South Beach, Coral Gables, Golden Beach, Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Pinecrest, Brickell and Sunny Isles areas. Location: 842 First St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-3001. Web site: www.southpointehomes.com.

Sterling Properties: Sterling Properties is committed to providing the specialized real estate services you deserve. They keep you informed on marketplace trends in your neck of the woods so you can make the best decision possible on one of life’s most important purchases/sales. Location: 1570 Kennedy Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-864-3777. Web site: www.sterlingpropertygroup.com.

Streamline Properties: A full-service independent real estate firm established in 1984, Streamline Properties has a long track record in Miami Beach and other areas in Miami-Dade County. Streamline Property’s agents guide customers through the process of selling their properties or selecting the right property that makes the most sense for their clients’ goals. Specializes in the areas of Miami Beach, Biscayne Boulevard Corridor, and the Upper Eastside. Location: 1125 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-7368. Web site: www.stream-line.com.

Turnberry International Realty: Provides its clients with “out of the box” marketing programs and the support of staff professionals knowledgeable in all aspects of real estate. Turnberry encourages its real estate professionals to “maintain a schedule of ongoing training and seminars, and to constantly challenge themselves in their pursuit of being the very best in our market,” according to the company’s mission statement. Location: 2875 N.E. 191st St., #601, Aventura. Phone: 305-935-0300. Web site: www.turnberryrealty.com.

321Gone.com: Why should real estate transactions be lengthy and complicated? You need to sell a house, and surely there’s a buyer who needs one at a good price. At 321Gone.com, both of you can come together, meet each other’s needs, and your house problem will be 3-2-1-gone. Web site:  www.321Gone.com.

Triangle Companies: Established in 1992, Triangle Companies is now an experienced, multilingual team of licensed real estate agents fluent in more than 10 languages. They stand by a strong guarantee: “When you call upon one of our experienced associates, they will guide you through the entire process from beginning to end so you feel confident about selling your home or purchasing a new one.” Location: 1741 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-987-7379. Web site: www.triangleproperties.net.

Weichert Realtors Best Beach Real Estate: With more than 120 Realtors, Weichert Realtors Best Beach has the tools to provide sellers, buyers and investors with the best services in the industry. Their success starts at the core of their business by providing the highest quality of training, marketing tools and leads. Location: 1235 Alton Road, 1300 Collins Avenue and 7145 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-776-8768. Web site: www.bestbeach.net.

Wolf International Realty, LLC: Specializes in luxury waterfront residential and commercial property. Has been brokering South Florida property since 1970. Phone: 954-921-1974.

www.BestOfMiamiProperties.com: Aventura real estate agents Ana Treter and Evandro Santos know the Internet has become like a second home to many of us in this day and age. That’s why they’ve put so much effort into creating a functional and informative Web site for their real estate business that has information about hundreds of buildings and properties in the Miami area, including pricing, floor plans, photos and availability. The site is neatly organized, like any home should be. Location: 2875 NE 191st St., suite 601, Aventura. Phone: 954-558-5480. Web site: www.bestofmiamiproperties.com.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

Abby Ikehara, Choice Realty of Miami: A Miami resident since 1970, Abby Ikehara uses  innovative marketing techniques and technology to assist her clients.  Location: 7211 S.W. 62nd Ave., Suite 117, Miami. Phone: 305-972-0678.

Adrienne Klein, Azure Realty: Known as the “Apartment Therapist,” Adrienne Klein takes along her professional team at Azure Realty to assure the most therapeutic and calming real estate experience. Offering unique residential and commercial investment opportunities. Phone: 786-208-7004. Web site: www.apttherapist.com.

Alberto Bassal, Weichert Realtors Best Beach Real Estate: Co-owner of a new company with more than 120 Realtors. Has acquired multiple listings from many developers like Aguamarina, The Abbot, The Beachcomber, Winds of Nobe, Star Hollywood and several others. Phone: 305-776-8768. Web site: www.bestbeach.net.

Andrea Silverthorne, New Star Realty: The founder of New Star Realty, Andrew Silverthorne has the ability to analyze the local market and react to it. Silverthorne and her team handle properties that offer everything from historic charm and/or oceanfront luxury, to income properties and condominium conversion projects. Location: 701 4th Street, Suite 200, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-2680. Web site: www.newstar-realty.com.

Arthur Barron, Streamline Properties, Inc.: With more than 30 years of licensed expertise in commercial real estate and property management, as well as experience in advertising and sales promotion, Barron specializes in office leasing and office condo sales from Miami Beach to Aventura and throughout the Biscayne Corridor and downtown. He is a recognized authority in the office leasing market and has a reputation for locating suitable space within his customers’ price range. Location: 1125 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-794-2845. Web site: www.stream-line.com.

Ashton Coleman, MiamiDreamRealty.com: A waterfront expert, Ashton Coleman is knowledgeable with real estate building trends. Is worldly in real estate transactions (and views) from South Beach to Sunny Isles Beach. Location: 1865 79th St., North Bay Village. Phone: 888-38-DREAM. Web site: MiamiDreamRealty.com.

Barry Young, Riviera Realty: An experienced negotiator in real estate transactions, Barry Young believes good communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. Barry Young has great knowledge of Miami’s growing marketplace. Location: 1800 N.E. 114th St., Miami. Phone: 305-335-2309.

Bonnie Brooks & Ilene Tessler, Turnberry International Realty: It has been a friendship of more than 40 years and a business partnership of more than 25. They’ve held record-breaking sales for Bal Harbour Village, Bay Harbor Islands, Keystone Point, Sans Souci Estates, North Bay Road and the Venetian Islands. Location: 2875 N.E. 191 St., Suite 601, Aventura.  Phone: (Bonnie Brooks) 305-206-4186, (Ilene Tessler) 305-458-1200. Web site: www.opendoormiami.com.

Brian T. Carter, Douglass Elliman: A multimillion-dollar producer with an impressive track record, Brian Carter has distinguished himself at Douglas Elliman with his success in preconstruction and condo-conversion sales, as well as commercial real estate sales. Location: 1680 Meridian Ave., Suite 1, Miami Beach. Phone: 888-383-7326.

Bryan T. Halda, Gray & Associates Properties, Inc.: The senior partner/associate for Gray & Associates Properties, Inc., Halda has distinguished himself as a top producer by bringing in more than $50 million in contracts since 2007. Having experienced all sides of the real estate business, Halda knows how to cater to practically any client, whether residential, commercial, first-time, luxury, local or international buyers. Location: 653 N.E. 76th St., Miami. Phone: 305-754-3778.

Carlos Aguiles, Streamline Properties: Specializes in the sale of restaurants and bars in Miami Beach and neighboring areas. Location: 1125 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-455-1328. Web site: www.topshelfbrokers.com.

Carole Smith, EWM Realtors: A careful mix of advertising (both in traditional media and internet), a personal touch and a thorough understanding of the South Florida market have proved extremely successful in selling properties for Carole Smith’s clients. Location: 1360 S. Dixie Highway, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-667-8871 ext.309.

Chris Brandl, South Pointe Properties Group: Specializes in full-service buildings like the Portofino, the Continuum, Murano, Murano Grande, the Yacht Club and South Pointe Tower. Location: 842 First St., Suite 1, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-588-2888. Web site: www.portofino1.com.

Deanna-Marie Jurgens, Fortune International: A Miami native, Deanna-Marie Jurgens has renovated and sold properties in New York City; Richmond, Va.; London, England; and Miami. Now specializing in properties located in Bal Harbour, Bay Harbour, Surfside, Miami Shores and Shorecrest. Phone: 305-335-9867. Web site: www.deanna-miamihomes.com.

DeAnn Patterson: DeAnn Patterson specializing in mortgages, international listings, preconstruction investment and income properties, Location: 18206 Collins Ave., Miami. Phone: 786-457-7963.

Denise Rubin, Coldwell Banker: Dubbed “The One Million Dollar Power Woman of Real Estate” by her colleagues, some of her recent sales have been in Aventura, Turnberry, Williams Island, Hidden Bay, Sunny Isles and Hollywood/Hallandale. Rubin is also a five-time recipient of Florida’s BEST Award. Location: 20803 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 102, Aventura. Phone: 305-459-5040. Web site: www.deniserubin.com

Diane Lieberman, South Beach Investment Realty: Since her arrival on the South Florida real estate scene 15 years ago, Diane Lieberman has risen to the top by having an eye for the right property and the determination to achieve her goals. Her company, South Beach Investment Realty, can be credited with the sell-out of a long list of condo-hotels. Location: 828 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-7771. Web site: www.sbirealty.com.

Donna K. Bloom, Majestic Properties: A licensed real estate broker with more than 39 years in the field, Donna Bloom focuses on luxury properties, setting sales records throughout the industry; she is also among the top 1 percent of U.S. Realtors. With career sales exceeding $100 billion, Bloom is vice chair and founding member of the Master Brokers Forum. Phone: 305-992-3983. Web site: http://donnakbloom.com/.

Elizabeth and Toby Spill, Exquisite Properties: With properties at deluxe locations like The Setai, The Bath Club, Icon and Portofino to name a few on their roster, the Spills have proven that they definitely have real estate skills. Location: 1680 Michigan Ave., Suite 915, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7123. Web site: www.exquisiteproperties.com.

Fabian Garcia-Diaz, Fortune International Realty: From 1984 until today, Fabian Garcia-Diaz has been a well-known household name in South Florida residential and commercial real estate. Has 15 years of experience in Miami and the Beaches. Is fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian. Location: 517 Arthur Godfrey Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-935-8050. Web site: www.fabianhomes.com.

Frank Kruszewski, Gary Hennes Realtors: Believes that being a Realtor is more about people and less about buying and selling properties. “You have to put people first, not just to be successful but also to be the kind of person buyers or sellers want to work with and want to refer to others,” he says. Location: 1633 Jefferson Avenue, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-586-3191. Web site: www.garyhennesrealtors.com.

Jack Coden Group, Keller Williams Realty: Sells $20 million-plus worth of Miami and Miami Beach property every year. Coming from more than 25 years of international banking, Jack Coden applies his extensive knowledge of finance to the world of real estate. Location: 700 N.E. 80th St., Miami. Phone: 305-742-5225. Web site: www.jackcodengroup.com.

Jeffrey M. Cohen, EWM Commercial: Licensed as both a real estate broker and general contractor, Jeffrey Cohen brings a unique perspective to his clients. He has more than 40 years of real estate experience, and was one of the very first developers to invest in the renovation of South Beach. Location: 419 Arthur Godfrey Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-5333.

Jennifer Brilliant, Keller Williams Miami Beach Realty: Specializes in Miami Beach and Surfside locations. She also has access to the latest technologies and market research to help her find solutions tailored to her clients’ needs. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or rent, Jennifer Brilliant can help you achieve your real estate goals. Location: 1680 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-389-0220. Web site: www.BrilliantMiamiRealEstate.com.

Jess Smith, Carson Realty: Responsible for quality control and supervision of a particularly dedicated account team responsible for several major condo conversions in the Florida market. Smith has further branded himself by representing clients at both the domestic and international markets. Location: (Miami Beach) 225 Collins Ave.; 1626 Jefferson Ave; (Miami) 2010 Biscayne Blvd. Phone: 1-888-576.5776. Web site: ww.getcarson.com.

Jo-Ann Forster, Coldwell Banker: Jo-Ann Forster is the #1 top producer for Coldwell Banker in Miami-Dade County for 2006 and #1 top producer in the state of Florida 2006. Forster also ranks in the top .25 percent of Realtors nationally and is listed in Realtor Magazine among “Top 100 Agents in the Nation.” Location: 1500 San Remo Avenue, Suite 110, Coral Gables.  Phone: 305-667-4815 or 305-778-5555. Web site: wwww.UniqueHomesOfMiami.com.

John Patrick and Carlos Cortes, South Beach Investment: Introducing Edgewater Rentals by South Beach Investment Realty, luxury condominium residences offering waterfront lifestyles starting at $2,000 a month during the summertime. Fully furnished contemporary studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms available. Location: 1410 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-7771.  Web site: www.SBIRealty.com

Jose Roqueni, Avanti Way Realty: Guarantees (in writing) to invest a portion of the value of the property in marketing efforts, which comes out of Jose Roqueni’s commission arrangement. Location: 1320 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-229-1146. Web site: www.joseroqueni.com.

Josephine Pampanas, EWM: Has 15 years experience in the real estate industry as well as a background in finance. Her strategy is listening to her customers and determining what their needs are. “Then I make sure that their needs are fulfilled.” Fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Phone: 305-672-1300 Ext. 4051.

Karen Kafin, South Beach Investment Realty: Has managed, recruited and trained agents in SBI Realty since 2003. Now the company has the fifth highest sales volume in Miami Beach and a team of 85 multilingual professionals. Phone: 305-532-7771. Web site: www.sbirealty.com.

Kelly Salinas, Re/Max Beach Properties: Among her listings include two bedroom unit at Sailboat Cay Condo in North Miami, a one bedroom unit with views of the Intracoastal in Hallandale, a one bedroom Woodlakes Apartments Condo for rent with views of the bay and a fourplex in Biscayne Parks. Phone: 954-643-5487.

Matt New, Axis Realty Group: Has more than 15 years of real estate investment experience. As a top producer at the firm, Matt has continued a successful tradition of offering buyers and sellers top-notch service with an attention to detail. Phone: 305-710-3700. Web site: www.mattnew.net.

Michael Feuling, Carson Realty Group, Inc.: Specializing in renting and selling residences in South Pointe Tower is Michael Feuling, who spent many years in advertising and sales in New York. In real estate, Feuling prides himself in bringing a professional “‘pin striped suit sensibility’ to my dealings with both buyers and sellers.” Location: (Michael Feuling’s office): 1626 Jefferson Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-776-6914.

Nancy Batchelor, Esslinger Wooten and Maxwell: A Realtor with EWM’s Coral Gables office, Batchelor has been in EWM’s Chairmen’s Club for the past four years. She specializes in relocation, and sells and markets all over Miami. Location: 1360 S. Dixie Highway, Coral Gables.  Phone: 305-903-2850. Web site: www.miamibeachluxuryliving.com

William Carson, Carson Realty Group: Once among Kent Karlock Realty’s top producers, William Carson founded Carson Realty Group with Carlo Gambino in June 2002 to “fill the need for an upscale, boutique-type real estate office.” 

Location: 1560 Lenox Avenue, Suite 103, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-576-5776. Web site: www.carsonrealtygroup.com.