Shireen's Favorite Things

El Mercado de San Miguel, 301 North Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33132

What an amazing treat! I absolutely fell in love with “La Feria Del Mercado de San Miguel” on the most perfect South Florida fall night. The market, which is snuggled under a gi-normous luxury tent, glows with magic from amber-colored hanging lights, great music, delicious food and energetic people. It’s a food-topia not to be missed!

The concept hails from Madrid, but it’s popping up right here in Miami until the end of January. Style-wise, the contemporary food festival is reminiscent of an old school carnival, with upscale modern food carts and a beautiful, bustling bar in the middle of it all. I went last Friday night and the place was buzzing with weekend vibes.

After a nice glass of red wine, my photographer and I contemplated which carts we would dine from. With so many amazing and affordable choices, we had a hard time making our final picks. In the end, we decided to try a little bit of everything. I mean, when in Rome, right? Or in this case, when in a mini-Madrid.

Our first plate was a Chick Pea bowl; a mix of tangy, pickled goodness. It came with a variety of olives, peppers, artichokes and frankly, anything else I would personally garnish a Bloody Mary or Dirty Martini with. It was absolute salt heaven! The flat bread veggie pizza, which was my favorite dish of the evening, was baked to perfection.

I also tried a mini helping of a rich and creamy Seafood Paella. Next up, two decadent cutting boards of meat. I can’t help it, I grew up on a ranch and sometimes, it’s just not a meal unless it’s meaty. Both the sausage and steak had amazing flavor and were served with potatoes and sautéed veggies. There wasn’t an empty plate on the table when we were through.

The reason I love this concept: it’s different and interactive. Not just because of the people around you and the food, but the location, too. It’s a perfect way to change up a night out on the town and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Smack dab downtown Miami at Bayfront Park. Parking is always tricky in this part of town, but luckily there’s a big parking garage just north of the pop-up market that’s extremely affordable or why not just Uber or cab it? So you can truly enjoy the festivities. 🍷😃 Ladies, wear your walking shoes!

Sunday-Thursday 10am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 10am-12am. Make plans now! The market is only popping-up until January 31st.

Prices range depending on the plate: tapas $2-$5, main dishes $8 and up, adult beverages $8. You’re looking at about $18 dollars for a meal with a soft drink.