As the newly appointed Artistic Director of the Miami City Ballet, Gonzalo Garcia is taking in the city with the eyes of a dancer, choreographer, and devoted explorer. Between early-morning boardwalk runs, afternoons discovering Wynwood, and evenings at the New World Symphony, Garcia is embracing Miami’s outdoor rhythm and thriving cultural landscape. Below, he shares his personal guide to the Magic City—where he finds inspiration, where he’s eating, and his perfect 24 hours.
Gonzalo Garcia,
“Apollo,”
Choreography George Balanchine,
© The George Balanchine Trust,
New York City Ballet,
Credit Photo: Paul Kolnik.
Finding Pure Inspiration
“I find most of my inspiration in the dancers themselves—watching them take class, rehearse, and create every day,” said Garcia. “They motivate me.” Outside the studio, Miami’s nature fuels him. Morning runs along the boardwalk, sunlight off the water, and the daily energy of the beach have all become essential parts of his routine.
Exploring the City’s Unique Artistry
Garcia is exploring Miami’s many creative pockets, from the Miami Design District’s public installations and architecture to the emotional pull of Wynwood Walls, closely tied to Miami City Ballet’s own history and repertoire. Garcia’s husband, who is a visionary director, has filmed two MCB projects in Wynwood, deepening the connection.
He’s also inspired by the city’s institutions—from The Bass to the constellation of galleries activating neighborhoods across Miami.
Dynamic Neighborhood Vibes
“My mood can be satisfied by many different neighborhoods,” Garcia said. For calm: the parks around South Pointe, where he loves to walk at sunset. For buzz: Brickell and Wynwood. For community: Coconut Grove and Coral Gables, where the residential feel reminds him of the city’s warmth. With just two months in Miami, he’s still exploring—but loving the range.
Best-Kept Secret (for Now)
Garcia is fascinated by The ReefLine, an underwater art and environmental project being unveiled along the coast. A mix of sculpture, marine life, and ecological design, it’s a place he hopes Miami City Ballet can one day collaborate with. “It won’t be a secret for long,” Garcia admits, “but it’s something I’m really curious about.”
Favorite Spots to Dine
A dancer’s life requires fuel—and Garcia is happily discovering Miami’s culinary diversity:
La Sandwicherie (“amazing sandwiches…very Miami”)
Mandolin Aegean Bistro, a longtime favorite from past visits
Sushi Bichi in North Beach
Basilico, a beloved Italian family-run restaurant Garcia describes as “delicious”
Gonzalo Garcia’s 24 Hours in Miami
Morning: A run along the boardwalk, maybe passing through Muscle Beach, feeling the sun and sand to start the day.
Afternoon: Reading on the beach or at South Pointe Park, or wandering through the Design District or Wynwood for art, food, and people-watching.
Evening: A performance—at Faena Theater, New World Symphony, or Nu Deco Ensemble. “And if Miami City Ballet is in season,” Garcia adds, “that’s where I’ll be.”
The Best of Miami with Gonzalo Garcia
1. Miami City Ballet
Miami City Ballet; Courtesy of Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Miami City Ballet (MCB) is one of America’s premier ballet companies, recognized nationally and internationally for its artistic excellence, vibrant style, and innovative spirit. Founded in 1985 by Miami philanthropist Toby Lerner Ansin, MCB has earned its place as a leader in the field—nurturing new choreographic voices, forging bold collaborations, and championing greater inclusivity in classical ballet. – Miami City Ballet
2. REEFLINE
Render of Petroc Sesti’s “Heart of Okeanos.” Courtesy of the ReefLine.
REEFLINE is a pioneering underwater sculpture park and hybrid reef conceived by Ximena Caminos and master planned by OMA / Shohei Shigematsu. More than an artwork, REEFLINE is a new kind of laboratory — a place where creativity, science, and community meet to explore how design can help our oceans thrive. Each installation provides structure for marine flora and fauna to attach and grow, becoming a magnet for fish and biodiversity. Visitors can access this vibrant underwater world directly from shore, experiencing the ocean’s beauty without the need for long trips offshore. – REEFLINE
3. Sushi Bichi
Courtesy of Sushi Bichi.
Miami Beach’s Japanese-inspired sun, surf & sushi beachside sanctuary has arrived. Celebrating the culinary coastlines of the world’s most vibrant cultures, Sushi Bichi focuses on fresh, pan-coastal creations and premium drinks al fresco as North Beach’s newest anchor restaurant. – Sushi Bichi
4. Basilico
Courtesy of Basilico Ristorante.
At Basilico, our values are deeply rooted in culinary excellence and a commitment to delivering unparalleled flavor. From sourcing the finest ingredients to crafting each dish with precision, our dedication to quality is the cornerstone of your dining experience. Join us on a journey where every meal reflects the essence of our values, making Basilico more than a restaurant; it’s a testament to a commitment to exceptional taste and service. – Basilico
