Francophiles of Miami – have you made your plans for Bastille day?
Held annually on July 14th, Bastille Day is a French national holiday celebrating the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, signaling a revolution of the people. But nowadays, it’s a celebration of all the wonders of French culture, from the can-can to macarons to pétanque! Make sure to mark your calendars for these fantastic celebrations in Miami.
1. Visit the Bastille Day Celebration 2016- French Riviera Edition at the Seaspice Restaurant (422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami).
Hosted by French Tuesdays Miami, a French cultural organization, this chic event will feature live music and entertainment, and French cuisine. The restaurant is located on the Miami River, transformed for the night into the French Riviera. Tickets for the event (meal not included) can be purchased here for $20-$30, and the event is 21+.
2. Dance the Night Away at Bastille Day at Dance Band Night: Summer Folk Dance Intensive (North Beach Bandshell,
7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach).
This event will feature live French music and folk dancing, as well as French wine, crepes, and other French foods. The event is co-hosted by the Consulate of France in Miami Cultural Services, and is free for all ages. From beginners to professional dancers, everyone is invited!
3. Join the Party at the Cafeina Lounge’s Bastille Day Celebration (297 NW 23rd Street, Miami).
From 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Bastille Day, head to Cafeina Lounge to enjoy wine, brie, crepes, “French Kiss” martinis, and French music. Voted the “Best secret bar in Miami,” Cafeina is a 1920s speakeasy-style space that also includes a hip art gallery. Its website calls it an “elegant hipster’s paradise”- be sure to check it out for Bastille Day!
4. Dress Up for the Costume Party at Le Bouchon du Grove (3430 Main Hwy Miami, FL).
Don your best Marie Antoinette costume and head to Le Bouchon du Grove! This homey French restaurant is known for excellent hospitality – all guests are greeted with champagne! For Bastille Day, the entire staff will be clad in 1700s French garb, and, as the saying goes, when in Rome… Make sure to make a reservation before hitting up Ebay for neck ruffles and corsets.
5. Celebrate in Style at Bâoli Restaurant and Club Lounge (Bâoli Miami, 1906 Collins Ave, Miami Beach).
The festivities at this stylish Paris-away-from-home include cancan dancers, charming accordion serenades, berets all around, and red, white, and blue bunting. La vraie vie en rose!
6. Dine at Bagatelle French Bistro (220 21st St.
Miami Beach).
Bagatelle is an upscale French restaurant, traditional white napkin service and all the sauces you can shake a bread stick at. Stop in for their Bastille Day menu, and enjoy the very best of French cooking.
7. Have a Bastille Day Brunch with Les Dames d’Escoffier (L’Épicerie – 195 Northwest 36th Street).
Les Dames d’Escoffier is a cultural organization with a mission to introduce French gastronomic delight to American palates. A ladies brunch will be held on July 17th from 12-3 p.m., including a historical talkback There will also be a gift raffle. Tickets for the event can be purchased for $35-40.
8. Enjoy the pastries at Atelier Monnier (848 Brickell Ave #120, Miami).
For the perfect Bastille Day breakfast, stop by Atelier Monnier for French pastries and coffee. They also offer soups, salads, and sandwiches for lunch. All of their ingredients are fresh and local, and they strive to bring the French cafe experience to Miami. The shop also includes a boutique of French wines and cooking accessories. Stop in and try out their Bastille Day menu for the perfect French meal!
