Established in the late 19th century, Little River is one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods, yet this small, formerly industrial patch north of the Wynwood Arts District and Little Haiti can be easy to miss. That’s changing now, however, as the area has recently attracted artists, community-driven businesses, and Michelin-recognized restaurants. Here are five can’t-miss spots down by the riverside.
IS Projects
Perhaps South Florida’s only artist-run fine art printmaking and book-arts studio, IS Projects offers beginner-friendly workshops, exhibitions, artist talks, and more. Visitors can attend one of these events or drop in for a tour of the facility. “You can see the studio, smell the ink, and even take home a limited-edition artists’ book or print,” says founding director Ingrid Schindall.
La Natural
This intimate restaurant earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition in 2022, thanks in part to its naturally leavened pizzas made with 48-hour cold-fermented dough. Aside from the pizzas, try something from the list of natural wines and what executive chef and owner Javier Ramirez calls “a vegetable-forward menu of simple yet creative plates.”
Rosie’s
Husband-and-wife team Akino and Jamila West opened this brunch-only spot as a pop-up in 2020, and it has since earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand rating. “We want everyone who dines with us to come as a guest and leave as family,” says Akino, whose place serves up Southern food with an Italian twist—think wild mushroom polenta or lemon ricotta pancakes.
Walter’s Mercado
At this pop-up marketplace, which is held at least once a month, shoppers browse vintage clothes, furniture, art, and plants from a curated collection of vendors. Market director Hannah Badwan says Walter’s “gives patrons the opportunity to discover a Miami they didn’t know existed, by highlighting rare finds, new businesses, and under-the-radar local talent.”
Rose Coloured
Customers at this full-service flower shop and creative space can choose their own fresh and dried florals at the daily stem bar or let the professional designers craft a bouquet that’s akin to customized artwork. “The shop offers a unique oasis of calm, beauty, and oxytocin within the neighborhood,” says founder, lead designer, and curator Sara Darling.
