Coral Gables Section - Coral Gables, FL Area Guide

Coral Gables began in the 1920’s during the Florida Land boom. The older homes, built in Mediterranean Revival Style from coral-hewn stones, are a reflection of Miami’s rich history. In 1926, Coral Gables already spanned more than 10,000 acres with an integral electric trolley system. Development of the area continued at a rapid pace and during World War II, the Navy based many of its aeronautical mechanics and pilots in the city.

The University of Miami has its main campus within the city’s boundaries, as does the world-class Biltmore Hotel - complete with five star spa and golf course. Other points of interest within the city proper are Fairchild Tropical Gardens and the Lowe Art Museum on Stanford Drive.

Coral Gables calls itself home to a variety of ethnic restaurants that include Thai, Latin, Vietnamese, Italian, Caribbean, and Japanese cuisine to name a few. After the business day has finished, locals flock to Coral Gables to enjoy a wide range of gastronomic delights or a drink in any of the numerous bars found in the area. The majority of restaurants can be found in the vicinity of Ponce de Leon Boulevard, most within walking distance -- and world-famous Coconut Grove lies a mere five-minute drive away.

The variety of restaurants in Coral Gables reflects the cultures of the professionals living there. Ortanique on the Mile has gained its fame for its eclectic Caribbean-Jamaican cuisine. For those that love unique fish, this restaurant should be tops on your must-try list. Guacamole, salsa and Caribbean-style conch have helped earn this restaurant its reputation, but diners are also encouraged to try some of the more traditional Jamaican food such as the spicy Jerk chicken.

Individuals who prefer more traditional, American-style food will enjoy Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar - a local favorite with modestly-priced plates from $21 to $30. Flemings offers seafood, brie, French onion soup and mouth-watering steaks, which may be accompanied by a glass or a bottle of delectable wines. An affordable oasis among nearby restaurants with pricier menus, Flemings is a great mix of upscale feel and casual atmosphere.

A short list of Coral Gables' eateries would not be complete without mentioning Miss Saigon Bistro on Giralda Avenue. This restaurant is famous for its flavorful Vietnamese dishes served with artistic presentation. Miss Saigon offers its customers pork, shrimp and chicken dishes arranged in style and served expediently. The chef employs artistic license in creating colorful plates of lemongrass curry chicken, Vietnamese spring rolls and vegetarian dishes. Best of all, the meal can be enjoyed with traditional iced coffee or "33" Export Beer. An evening out in this moderately-priced, family-run business will make anyone a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Residents know that a night in Coral Gables means excellent evening entertainment, with many clubs have close proximity to the restaurants on Ponce de Leon Boulevard. The Open Stage Club, located at 2325 Galiano Street, provides live music, karaoke and more for its patrons. Just the Funny Theater is another venue that showcases sketch comedy and improv. Coconut Grove -- situated a little more than two miles from the Gables -- also has several popular locations for dancing and clubbing.

This area of Miami has several options for transportation. A public trolley runs throughout the city of Coral Gables and operates free-of-charge within the area. Metrobus and Yellow Cab offer their services in the vicinity as well. Metrobus runs on a regular schedule to more distant areas within Miami. For those who do not have time to spend waiting, Uber may be the preferred choice versus utilizing a taxi service. Taxis in Coral Gables usually take more than thirty minutes to arrive, and during the weekends the wait time may be substantially longer.

Public parking is available at a cost of $1.00 an hour, but it may be difficult to find on the main thoroughfares during the weekend. The Coral Gables area is relatively safe for bikers and pedestrians as well as vehicles.

Coral Gables is home to several parks - some of which allow dogs. Areas for cycling and exercising make Coral Gables attractive for those seeking both a fit lifestyle and a posh living experience. This secure, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood offers a variety of diversions and year-round activities and events, such as the Merrick Caroling Competition and expositions at Fairchild Tropical Gardens.

Anyone considering renting a property in Coral Gables should be prepared to spend more than other areas of the city, due to its proximity to the downtown area and the Brickell Avenue financial sector. One bedroom residences rent for an average of $1,830 a month.

Since a substantial number of professionals live in this area, the cost of living stands at the high end. You may expect to pay in excess of $7 for a beer in any of the local establishments and Coral Gables fuel prices rest at 5% above the national average.

Boutiques, luxury stores and exotic car dealerships may be found throughout Coral Gables, often interspersed between the restaurants on Ponce de Leon Boulevard. If you are in search of a sports car such as an Audi, Porsche or Bugatti, The Collection - a luxury vehicle retailer - is the place to be. Many high-end boutiques such as Dominique’s offer women’s clothing to fashion-forward residents in town. Coral Gables does not contain many small grocery or convenience stores, so most people head to the Publix Supermarket, which the typical assortment of fresh meat, poultry and vegetables.

If eating healthy is a priority, you won't want to miss the quality organic produce, baked goods and other farm fresh fare found at the Farmer’s Market, held every Saturday at the junction of Miracle Mile and LeJeune Road.