|
what's
Up
in
South
Beach
by Stephanie Wilson |
 Let's pray that the last
hurricane has made its way through our party-haven for the year, and
that we will be free for the rest of the 2005 season to not board up,
and to not worry about evacuating. Its never a fun sight to drive around
Miami Beach and see the streets deserted, and the hotels and boutiques
along Ocean Drive boarded up. This is a town of decadence and merriment,
and to see that all shut down for mother nature is a saddening site.
Ask any local and they will tell you that September is not their
favorite time of year. The constant threat of evacuation combined with
the overwhelming heat and humidity leaves us feeling weary and worn-out.
The party circuit slows down, openings come to a crawl, and people tend
to hibernate and recuperate for the in-season, which is just around the
corner. Only the die-hards are still out there night after night, even
Michael Capponi seems to be taking a little break from his
party-throwing frenzy. But alas, there are
still events to keep the thongs of party-goers happy: Last week they
could be seen at the hot opening of Metropolis downtown, where the lines
were long enough to keep those not-in-the-know out and on the street
begging to get in like paupers. And this weeks opening had the
perky-crowd clamoring to get into the upscale fitness center Equinox on
the corner of 5th and Collins.
In other words, it takes a big event to get the locals out during
September. We are tired, we are weary, and we just want to rest.
In-season started with a bang last December with Art Basel and ran
straight through the VMAs at the end of August. So now that the last MTV
truck has headed back to New York to embrace the fall, Miamians retreat
into our homes to recuperate for another year in the spotlight that lies
ahead. September is a necessary evil so we can get our beauty rest , and
so we will be ready for the upcoming year in the spotlight.
But then comes Wine Week at Smith and Wollensky's, and us locals are
once again rejuvenated and out on the scene. At this waterfront gem,
with a cool breeze blowing in from the Atlantic, more than 18,000
bottles of wine are poured to more than 175,000 customers throughout the
week. For a mere $10 addition to the regular menu, sun-drenched and
parched patrons can take refuge in a classy tradition, one which wills
us locals out of our air conditioning and reminds us why it is we live
here on Miami Beach: For the sun, for the fun, and for the wine.
Do not miss this opportunity to take a taste in outstanding vintages
from around the globe. Head over to Smiths and tell them that South
Beach magazine sent you. While there, be sure to take part in the Miami
Spice lunch program, which is only lasting till the end of September.
After that, get ready for the prices to jump as the scene does too. The
countdown to in-season has begun. Rest now, while you still can. Cause
come November, the scene starts all over again, with or without you.
|
