Explore South Beach: Uncover Community Secrets!


Noel Y. Calingasan
Last Saturday, I went to see Hall des Lumières’ inaugural exhibit, Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion for the second time. The exhibit is a thematic journey through the golden, sensuous, and revolutionary art of the Viennese painter, created exclusively for Hall des Lumières by an artistic team led by Culturespaces Digital’s Gianfranco Iannuzzi. Klimt’s The Kiss, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer, and Lady with Fan are among the works featured in the digital experience designed to bring guests through Klimt’s prolific career while perfectly complementing the marble walls, towering columns, stained glass skylights and coved ceilings of the permanent art center. The venue sets this exhibit apart from the other similar exhibitions that I have seen previously.


Eater
A pizza party at the library! Anthony “The Big Cheese” Mongiello is a Brooklyn pizza legend, holding the claim to be the first to patent stuffed pizza crust, before Pizza Hut. Hear his story, beefed up with legal drama and tales of his days growing up in Bensonhurst on Wednesday, October 16 at 6:30 p.m. held at the Center for Brooklyn History at Brooklyn Public Library at 128 Pierrepont Street, in Brooklyn Heights.


Cheryl
This is the perfect spot to eat, drink, and watch a game! With their vintage decor, it makes the perfect cozy spot to catch up with friends. They also have trivia night on thursdays at 7:30pm at their park slope location. don’t miss out on their oysters especially during happy hour. the oysters were fresh and the honey garlic wings are a must! Happy hour is monday-thursday 3pm-7pm • pineapple sunset • oysters • honey garlic wings • bg’s famous burger • homemade guacamole • fried shrimp • bacon mac ‘n cheese 📍The Beer Garage


Natasha Surti
Run your week off right 🥯☕️ 🍽Where I went: Bagels & Schmear ✔️What I got: Everything Bagel with Scallion Cream Cheese 💰What I paid: ~ $5 ⠀ 🤔What I think: Everyone knows there is a lot of debate on the best bagel place in NYC… my personal favorite out of all the ones I’ve had so far has to be Bagels & Schmear. The benchmark of a good bagel is one that can be eaten completely plain and untoasted. I have tried their bagels plain and can confirm they taste amazing even on their own. That being said it only gets better when you toast it and add on a healthy amount of cream cheese.. what are your thoughts on breakfast in NYC.. do you prefer getting a bagel with cream cheese or a breakfast sandwich (or both of them combined)?


Cheryl
This spot has become one of my favorite ramen spots in midtown, NYC. they’ve been opened for a few years and I’ve been missing out 😭. I felt so welcomed and warm dining here. every worker was so sweet and kind. everything was delicious. every appetizer was so good. you must get the chicken karaage. it was soo juicy on the inside. their ramen was such a bowl of comfort. the cheesecake is a must. it didn’t feel heavy! I can’t wait to come back 🫶🏻 • yuzu fizz $8 • strawberry matcha $8 • goku salad $10 • shrimp lollipops $12 • octopus takoyaki $10 • karaage chicken $10 • tonkotsu ramen $19 • spicy kimchi ramen $19 + pork cha-shu $6 • japanese cheesecake $7 📍Ramen Goku


Food Baby
Always love a reason to go back to the excellent Stretch Pizza, and the latest one is this great Happy Hour menu, Tuesday - Thursday 4-6pm, and also the amazing “The Bear” special, like an Italian beef in pizza form. Aside from their staple pizza, you have to try new items. This is one of our favorite spots to indulge in delicious cuisine. 👶🏽🍕 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽


Storytime NYC
Madman Espresso on University Place📍 ☀️ Starting the day at Madman Espresso. Cute shop, great coffee, and everyone is super sweet here. My first try was at their University Av location. Great cafe for on the go coffee / treats and a nice spot if you want to work a bit away from home too. Here’s a little toast to a happy day! ☕️☕️
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC


New York Locals
Perfect spot to visit this fall📚🍂 The Morgan Library Museum Illuminating the creative process, 4000 BC to the present. Books will naturally age with time showing signs of wear and tear but luckily due to how books were made prior to the 19th century repairs can be made. When a book is repaired the area of focus is often on the spine, hinges, or corners. A book that needs repair is a sign that it was a book well read.


Infatuation
Union Pizza Works Bushwick If you're looking for somewhere to eat with several of your Great Danes, try the huge backyard at Union Pizza Works. We really like the Neapolitan pies here, specifically the one that’s built like a sandwich with melted mozzarella, arugula, and prosciutto. This Bushwick pizza spot also works well for an outdoor birthday party, whether its for your or your canine.


Foodie_NYC
I had so much fun at Socarrat Paella Bar! It felt like dining and partying in Barcelona while skipping the airfare. The place is definitely built for a party—narrow, intimate, with great food. Flowing alcohol and impeccable service. I had: ENSALADA DE TOMATE HEIRLOOM Y BURRATA – GF $20 Burrata cheese, heirloom tomatoes, frisée, cucumber, tapenade, basil sherry vinaigrette PULPO A LA GALLEGA – GF $24 Galician style sliced octopus, potato cubes, paprika oil, sea salt CHULETAS DE CORDERO – GF $26 Marinated grilled lamb chops, olive pisto, olive oil & lemon Greek yogurt SOCARRAT PAELLA – GF $34 Free-range bone-in chicken, chorizo, shrimp, white fish, squid, mussels, cockles, fava beans, peppers, tomato sofrito And finished it all with: TORRIJA CARAMELIZADA – $14 Caramelized milk-infused brioche, lemon curd, strawberries, vanilla ice cream I washed it all down with a great red Spanish wine. A total Spanish celebration. Can’t wait to go back and try the rest of the menu. Highly recommend 💎💎💎


Foodie_NYC
Wow, I had a great evening at RAS, an Ethiopian-inspired vegan restaurant in New York’s West Village. RAS is led by chefs Romeo and Milka Regalli, who created an innovative, holistic, health-driven vegan menu inspired by their Ethiopian roots. The servings were flavorful, delicious, and filling. I loved the hamburger—one of the best I’ve had. Had I not known, I would have never guessed it was a non-meat deliciousness. The food was followed by great cocktails. The service was impeccable, and the vibe was incredible. The amazing experience truly reflected the restaurant’s mission statement as stated on their site: OUR MISSION Every plate is a canvas, every flavor a narrative. Beyond serving food, we craft memories. With each bite, feel our dedication to warmth and genuine connection, creating moments that linger long after the meal concludes.


New York Locals
Pasta Special Cooking Class is bringing authentic Italian pasta-making to Brooklyn, founded by Virginia Gallucci. 🍝✨ Virginia has come all the way from Calestano, a charming medieval village in Italy’s Food Valley, to share her nonna’s treasured pasta recipes with you. 🇮🇹 Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, her classes are designed for everyone. Learn to make perfect fresh pasta from scratch using techniques passed down through generations. 👩🍳 But the fun doesn’t stop there! You’ll prepare delicious sauces and explore authentic Italian flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. For a touch of true Italian luxury, Virginia brings real black truffles from Italy, discovered by her loyal truffle-hunting dog. 🍄 The experience includes a selection of authentic bruschette and traditional dishes, ending with her handmade tiramisù. Indulge in this culinary adventure and bring a slice of Italy to your kitchen! 🍷🍮 📅 When: November 8-10, 2024, 6pm-9pm


Infatuation
Five Boroughs Brewing Co. Brooklyn The taproom at this Sunset Park brewery is open Thursday through Sunday, meaning you can drink hazy IPAs, pumpkin ales, and cereal-infused stouts a few feet from where they’re made. Whether you know all four “noble” varieties of hops or you just like trying local beers that haven’t gone mainstream yet, sit around an upright cask that doubles as your outdoor table, and ask the extremely knowledgeable staff which six-packs you should take to-go.


New York Locals
Heaven And Earth is a cozy wine bar in Greenpoint, offering a unique twist with its focus on hybrid grapes and seasonal small plates. 🍇 Founded by Tecla Esposito, this spot stands out with its homemade adaptogenic drinks, blending wellness with a classic wine bar experience. 🍷 From pop-ups to special events, there’s always something new happening at Heaven And Earth. ✨ Whether you’re sipping on a glass of wine or trying one of their inventive drinks, it’s the perfect place to unwind. 🌿
See also
Discover the Vibrant Local Community in Willowbrook Near NYC - Engage in Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts


Melanie Yu
In the heart of New York City resides Thirteen Water, a sushi bar that promises an intimate and casual dining experience. This gem offers a variety of sushi dishes that will leave your taste buds satisfied. With the option for reservations and catering services, Thirteen Water ensures a seamless dining experience for all. While dogs are not allowed, the friendly staff and delicious food make up for it. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a novice, Thirteen Water is a must-try for any food lover in the Big Apple.


New York Locals
La Flor, founded by Giancarlo Villa and Bri Heu, is Brooklyn’s newest pizza hotspot. 🍕 Opened in July 2024, La Flor is the culmination of Giancarlo’s 15+ years of experience at NYC favorites like Roberta’s and Upside. ✨ Known for its thin, crispy crust, La Flor offers creative pies like the Spicy Hawaiian, Pepperoni with housemade ranch, and a vegan Bruschetta slice, alongside the classics. 🌸 The pizzeria’s name, meaning “the flower,” is a nod to its proximity to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Giancarlo personally designed and built the interiors, channeling the charm of classic New York pizzerias and Italian cafes. All pies are baked in a rare vintage Frank Mastro oven, giving each slice a distinct flavor with perfect charring. Come grab a slice and experience the artistry behind La Flor! 🍕


New York Locals
NYC art lovers, this one’s for you! The Other Art Fair Brooklyn is back from October 17–20, and 120 talented emerging artists will showcase their original works just for you! 🎨✨ Don’t miss out on new and exciting features, including: - Danny Cortes’ Tiny Streets, Big Stories: The Essence of NYC exhibit, featuring captivating miniature dioramas of New York City - Get your misfortunes told by the world’s most pessimistic fortune teller, The Misfortuneteller - Live DJ sets on Thursday & Friday, catch DJ Sunny Cheeba on opening night - A replica New York subway car including electrifying dance performances by It’s Showtime NYC and an installation by popular Instagram Artist Poster Journal - A flowing fair bar, including hand-crafted whiskey cocktails - Original artworks priced at $100+


Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!


megan li
ART BEAN Genuinely might be my favorite cup of coffee in the city. I can’t believe their pandan and Ube lattes are so yummy because this is def on the list of must visits every time I go to NYC!


Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!


Eater
This Restaurateur Helped Define a Brooklyn Era: Now, He’s on to Manhattan! After all these years, what is it that pulls serial Brooklyn restaurateur, Andrew Tarlow, across the river? It turns out it’s the stunning, 2,400 square-foot space with a wood-fired oven where I Trulli resided since 1994. Rustic Italian newcomer Borgo opens for dinner, on Friday, September 27. Borgo is the first Tarlow restaurant to open in a decade since Greenpoint’s Achilles Heel. Before that, he opened Diner over 20 years ago, before Williamsburg was what it is today. He’s also behind Marlow & Sons, Roman’s, and She Wolf, along with natural wine shop, Stranger Wines. The 140-seat spot, debuts as a trattoria with a wood-burning oven, an open hearth, and a martini cart. “It’s really epic,” Tarlow says of the hearth in a walk-through. The space features two large rooms with arched entryways, along with the original I Trulli bar, and an 800-square-foot back garden. The food parallels a bit with Roman’s in Fort Greene, featuring seasonal Italian dishes and straightforward Italian mains. Yet the size of the restaurants allows the kitchen to be a bit more ambitious. “The bigger kitchen and the bigger facilities allow me to do more: It’s like the alligators grow as big as their tank kind of thing.”
See also
Local Networking Events & Trending Gatherings in Willowbrook Near NYC


New York Locals
The Parkgate is the newest gastropub in the West Village, combining modern design with a cozy, welcoming vibe. 🍻 Located at the corner of West 4th Street and Jones, owners Ciarán Harrison & Chris Buckle have created a stylish yet approachable spot known for great food, wine, cocktails, and, of course, the perfect pint of Guinness. 🍔🍷 With roots in Ciarán’s 100-year Irish hospitality heritage, The Parkgate offers a thoughtfully curated atmosphere, blending music, art, and top-notch service. Whether you’re grabbing a drink or enjoying a meal, The Parkgate makes every visit feel like home. 🏡✨


Melanie Yu
NYC Must-Try: Levain Bakery 🍪 Don’t try to convince me another cookie is better - you can’t 😛 Levain Bakery started as a neighborhood bakery in 1995 and has been featured in NY times as “what may possibly be the largest, most divine chocolate chip cookies in Manhattan.” They’re famous for their Two Chip Chocolate Chip (my favorite!) and dark chocolate chocolate chip cookies, both of which I love. My personal tradition whenever I fly to NYC is to buy 10 of the two chip chocolate chip cookies ($5 each!) on the day of my return flight and then go back home and pig out, share with friends, or freeze for later! I usually either microwave or rebake at around 300 degrees for 10 min. Pro tip: put them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to rebake again later! If they get hard after a day or two, just reheat at 20 sec in the microwave and it’s like they’re fresh baked 🤤 you can also order their premade cookie dough online to be shipped to you to bake at home! I haven’t tried this myself because I prefer just going in person and getting them fresh at the store though.


Eater
Next Stop Vegan Next Stop Vegan, a Downtown Brooklyn restaurant, specializes in meat and dairy-free Dominican food that has garnered local fanfare (the business was recently the subject of a Righteous Eats video as well). The team recently also added a Greenpoint sibling.


New York Locals
Sake Bar Asoko brings a modern twist to traditional Japanese drinking culture in NYC. 🍶 Founded in 2024 by Shintaro Cho and Yuri Itakura—both alumni of the iconic Sake Bar Decibel—Asoko fuses their deep sake expertise with a love for fashion, music, and Heisei-era Japan vibes. 🎶 Led by Arianna Cho on marketing and socials, the bar invites patrons to explore the diverse world of sake, Japanese shochu, and otsumami plates, each offering a fresh take on tradition. ✨ Whether you’re a seasoned sake lover or new, Sake Bar Asoko promises a unique, memorable experience! 🥢


Eater
Moonburger At least in certain subsets of New York, Moonburger has fanfare in equal measure amongst those who eat meat as well. These burgers first made their debut at a drive-thru in Kingston, New York before the team expanded with other upstate outposts in New Paltz and Poughkeepsie. Recently, it debuted its first in Brooklyn. Don’t skip the seasonal shake flavors, made with oat milk, as well. Vegetarian burgers can be made vegan with a cheese substitute.


Melanie Yu
NYC Must-Try: Levain Bakery 🍪 Don’t try to convince me another cookie is better - you can’t 😛 Levain Bakery started as a neighborhood bakery in 1995 and has been featured in @nytimes as “what may possibly be the largest, most divine chocolate chip cookies in Manhattan.” They’re famous for their Two Chip Chocolate Chip (my favorite!) and dark chocolate chocolate chip cookies, both of which I love. My personal tradition whenever I fly to NYC is to buy 10 of the two chip chocolate chip cookies ($5 each!) on the day of my return flight and then go back home and pig out, share with friends, or freeze for later! I usually either microwave or rebake at around 300 degrees for 10 min. Pro tip: put them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to rebake again later! If they get hard after a day or two, just reheat at 20 sec in the microwave and it’s like they’re fresh baked 🤤 you can also order their premade cookie dough online to be shipped to you to bake at home! I haven’t tried this myself because I prefer just going in person and getting them fresh at the store though.


Rebecca | NYC
I've been hearing and seeing Chicha San Chen everywhere and wanted to try it today! It's definitely more expensive than most boba, but the drink was so refreshing. I've never had osmanthus oolong tea before and I love it. After eating so many oily foods in other stores, it was great to cleanse my palette! The tapioca was also very chewy and awesome. What we ordered: 🧋honey osmanthus oolong tea with tapioca pearls
See also
Discover the Best Cocktails in Willowbrook: Local Bars & Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC


Eater
Desi Stop It can be extraordinarily hard to find options for late-night drunchies that are vegan or vegetarian. Behold Desi Stop: At this 24-hour deli, the samosa burger will only run you $5 and it’s made with actual vegetables: quinoa, chickpeas, and walnuts. It’s a worthy on-the-go snack no matter the time of day.


Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Dashi Okume Dashi Okume is both a store and a restaurant cafe packed into one beautifully minimalist but intricately put together building in the most popular part of Brooklyn! It comes from a Tokyo location that’s been around in the Tokyo location in the Tsukiji Fish Market since the 1870s. Walking in, you’ll see a cute DIY high quality dashi-making shop in the front of the store and a lifestyle shop Cibone selling upscale tea sets, kitchenware, and other traditional Japanese work on the right. Walking toward the back of the building, you’ll find a small cafe area selling only Teishoku (a meal set) that comes with your select tea, fish, rice, Kyuri no Asazuke (Japanese cucumber pickles), miso soup, and Kobachi (sides of the day) priced anywhere from $35-$150+ depending on your choice of specially prepared fish. I generally don’t even prefer to eat cooked fish but it was absolutely mind-blowing how delicious everything was, and I left so full but not bloated AT ALL because they only use additive-free ingredients - love everything here! What I ordered in my teishoku set meal: - Haiboshi Saba (because they were out of stock with the most popular Saikyo Zuke!) - Nasu Agebitashi: deep-fried juicy eggplant soaked in their in-house dashi - Tomato Tosazu Zuke: tomato pickled in a sweet vinegar, soy sauce, and their in-house dashi - Kabocha Nitsuke: simmered kabocha squash - Hojicha Tea Bonuses - I got to try my friend’s sides too: - Nikujaga: gently stewed pork, carrots, and potatoes in sweetened soy sauce - Donko Shiitake Umani: dried donko shiitake simmered in lightly sweet soy sauce
Discovering the Local Community in South Beach Near NYC
Experience the unique charms and vibrant energy of South Beach, just a stone’s throw away from NYC. This enchanting neighborhood encapsulates a fusion of seaside serenity and urban flair, making it a sought-after locale for both leisure and residence. At the heart of it all lies a dynamic local community that pulses with life and charm, offering residents and visitors a rich tapestry of culture, discussions, and celebrations.
Trending Discussions Within the Community
If you’re keen to tap into the heart of South Beach’s community conversations, Kikihub offers an invaluable resource. The platform facilitates anonymous posts where locals engage in trending discussions about everything from upcoming events to the latest neighborhood transformations. People candidly share their thoughts and insights, sparking thoughtful discussions about South Beach's evolving identity and how it blends the classic seaside allure with modern trends.
Current hot topics include sustainability initiatives that aim to preserve South Beach's natural beauty while accommodating its growth and popularity. Another bubbling conversation pertains to the strategies local businesses are adopting to adapt post-pandemic and how these changes impact the community's economic landscape. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, these discussions provide a window into the soul of South Beach.
Anonymity in Sharing Local Insights
The beauty of Kikihub lies in the promise of anonymity, encouraging participants to engage freely without the constraints of identity. This anonymity fosters a safe space for community members to express their candid opinions, share local secrets, and debate community matters without fear of repercussion. As you dive into the anonymous posts, expect to uncover hidden gems—from the best times to see dolphins dancing along the shoreline to secret local spots where you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset without the crowds.
Engaging anonymously allows for truly honest and open exchanges, where people provide recommendations for undiscovered walks through South Beach’s lush parks or where the freshest seafood can be savored. The anonymity provided by Kikihub doesn't just protect your identity; it enhances the community by allowing for an authentic exploration of experiences and insights.
Socializing and Networking Opportunities
South Beach is more than just a picturesque locale; it is a thriving community hallmarked by energetic socializing and networking opportunities. Locals and newcomers alike can embed themselves in this rich social fabric through a variety of clubs, events, and gatherings ranging from casual beach yoga sessions to more formal networking and community meetings organized to drive collective neighborhood development.
These meetings often see an intersection of diverse minds, sharing innovative ideas to bolster South Beach’s community spirit and economic vigor. Kikihub plays a pivotal role in broadcasting these events anonymously, allowing individuals to voice their thoughts or express interest without at first committing their presence. Such platforms have made it possible for the South Beach community to remain inclusive, vibrant, and connected.
Celebration in South Beach Style
No discussion about South Beach would be complete without mentioning its penchant for celebration. The local community knows how to commemorate special occasions with flair and enthusiasm, transforming ordinary days into unforgettable events. Regular beach bonfires, community picnics, and festive parades are common, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of the neighborhood.
Through the purview of anonymous interaction on Kikihub, enthusiasts share posts that detail preparations for upcoming festivities. These provide insights into the cultural heartbeat of South Beach, allowing everyone—from locals to tourists—to find opportunities to celebrate in a way that honors both tradition and innovation. These celebrations are more than mere events; they reinforce community bonds and help craft cherished memories.
Younger Generation’s Perspective
Finally, a significant topic stirring in the local community conversations is the role of the younger generation in shaping the future of South Beach. On Kikihub, one can encounter vibrant discussions on what’s next for the neighborhood, driven by the aspirations and ambitions of its youth. This generation champions technology integration in community initiatives, paving the way for a tech-savvy yet environmentally conscious future. They also play an active role in the community's artistic ventures, sparking a fusion of contemporary art exhibitions interwoven with South Beach's natural beauty.
Anonymous posts frequently highlight the initiatives spearheaded by these young leaders, celebrating their role in challenging the status quo and invigorating the community with fresh perspectives. From advocating for eco-friendly practices to spearheading innovative social enterprises, the youth of South Beach are carving a niche that speaks to progress and sustainability, resonating deeply with both the local and broader communities alike.
The Pulse of South Beach Within NYC's Reach
Only a short journey away from the bustling metropolis of NYC, South Beach offers a magical escapade replete with rich local culture and community engagement. The anonymous platforms such as Kikihub act as portals, providing a blend of local secrets, insights, and stories that encapsulate South Beach's indomitable spirit, ensuring that whether through physical exploration or digital storytelling, the community’s authentic pulse remains accessible and alive.