A few months back, I asked my friend Amy if she would write a *perfect day* guide to the neighborhood in Miami where she lives and works. A successful publicist, writer, wine scholar and twin mom, Amy is admired by many for her smarts, her courage, her charisma and her kindness. We haven’t shared a lot of “kid friendly” stuff on this newsletter, and now I’m kind of wondering why. When Amy came to me asking if she could write this from her beloved Cleo’s POV instead of her own, I thought it was a great idea. From the eyes of a toddler, everything is big and beautiful and bright. This one is very special and I hope you’ll read it, share it, and send Amy and her family lots and lots of love.
Cleo’s Perfect Day in Coral Gables: In honor of my perfect girl
Words by Amy Sedeño, Cleo’s mom
Coral Gables might not be the obvious choice when it comes to finding authentic Cuban staples, but Cleo liked to start her day at Vicky Bakery, right on University Drive. Croquetas and orange juice—the freshly squeezed kind—were her go-to's.
Next up, a walk to Cafe Grumpy so mom could caffeinate. Grumpy’s first location outside of New York has a neighborhood feel and some of the friendliest staff around who would always help with the door when I came bursting in with a double stroller. Mamas, take note!
Then, a break at Ponce Circle Park so I could drink my Grumpy coffee and enjoy a blueberry scone while Cleo walked around the fountain collecting sticks and stones with her brother, Phoenix—her optimal idea of fun.
Ponce Circle is having a renaissance with The Plaza, Coral Gables, a new commercial and residential project bringing hospitality, dining, entertainment, art, and shopping to Miami’s business district. We were most excited for Sanguich to open up. Did I mention Cleo loved croquetas?
Time for lunch! Yes, toddlers have quite a packed eating schedule. Pura Vida, Cleo’s favorite since the day it opened, offers parents a healthy choice for kids that everyone will enjoy. From acai bowls to beet hummus (chef’s kiss, according to Cleo), to their decadent breakfast sandwich with one of the best croissants in Miami, and of course, more coffee for mama!
Before nap time, we would pick a book at Books & Books, an independent bookstore with a well-stocked section of childhood favorites, including bilingual and Spanish books. The last stop on our way home was Chocolate Fashion for freshly-made pastries for dad.
In the afternoon, we loved strolling—and running—around Giralda and ending up at the go-to family spot for empanadas, FRIES (shouted in a shriek-y toddler voice!), and wine, Grazianos. The marketplace is a Gables staple with several shelves of Argentine groceries and an on-site menu.
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In loving memory of beautiful Cleo. You can read more of her mama’s writing here.