Benjamin Aranda’s Miami: Nina Johnson, Mandolin, and Le Sirenuse

WHERE TO EAT AND SIP
The first is Mandolin, which is a perfect restaurant in the Design District. Unfortunately, I can no longer order their grilled octopus after reading Other Minds and realizing how sophisticated and sentient they are. Why does nature make intelligent life so tasty? Anyway, the other is Clive’s Cafe in Little Haiti, which serves the best jerk chicken. I realize reading this how offensive this is to chickens.

WHERE TO SEE ART
Ever since she began in Wynwood, I have been a fan of the Nina Johnson gallery in Little Haiti. The program is rich and varied, she does critical art and design shows, and she has been building cool gallery extensions on the property. This place is a must-see stop in Miami.

WHERE TO HAVE FUN AND RELAX
Walking around the Design District and, if you have time, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, and finally, enjoying libations at Le Sirenuse.