On my first trip to Miami a travel companion said to me, “you’ll love Miami. It’s New York on the beach.” When we arrived I knew instantly what he meant — the hustle and bustle, the beautiful people, the nightlife and glamour quotient.

While my Miami clubbing days are certainly over, I still appreciate the Florida hotspot for its convenience and enduring incredible weather as a welcome respite from New York winters.

Here are my favorite Miami spots for the perfect chill weekend:

STAY

St. Regis Bal Harbour

The St. Regis in Bal Harbour is a great combination of luxurious accommodations mixed with a friendly and intimate beach vibe. The staff is always at the ready and the beach is never crowded.

EAT:

The Setai

Nothing beats The Setai unlimited breakfast buffet. The selection is like nothing you’ve ever seen — a mix of American favorites like silver dollar pancakes, waffles, bagels, and donuts to European staples like yogurt, croissants, Italian meats, French cheeses, and omelettes, to Middle Eastern delights like shakshuka! They haven’t missed a detail, even down to my favorite French butter.

Carpaccio

Carpaccio is the best Italian restaurant in Miami. No question. The scene is always lively and jubilant, the staff always lovely, and the cuisine divine. Pop in for a fun leisurely lunch or more formal dinner. The restaurant is located in the Bal Harbour shops so it’s the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon of shopping.

Michael’s Genuine

Michael’s Genuine is classic American fare in an artsy modern location. The restaurant is located in the design district and is the perfect spot for cocktails and dinner. At night the design district shops are all closed but illuminated and so Michael’s shines as a festive star amidst the cool architecture.

FOR FUN:

Miami Beach Tennis Academy

I pop into the Miami Beach Tennis Academy for tennis lessons every time I’m in town. The instructors are all former pros with incredible patience, great humor, and personalized skills and tips that really improve your game.