Miami's best-kept secrets

There are lots of hidden (and cheap) gems in Miami -- you just have to know where to look for them.

By Nikki Novo

Some say after living in Miami for 10 years you officially become a Miamian. Others may argue that the process doesn't necessarily have to take so long. Sometimes your moment can come a bit prematurely when, by fate, you bump into that tucked away neighborhood bar with the all-day $3 beer specials, or when you come across the ma-and-pa ice cream shop that sells homemade cones for just a dollar. Becoming a true local means unlocking some of Miami's best-kept (and affordable) secrets, here's your cheat sheet.

Eating sushi can become an expensive habit (Shoji or rent?). We've found a solution. Sandwiched between a laundromat and a sketchy liquor store is Sake Room Express, a surprisingly inexpensive yet fresh sushi bar in The Roads. Two rolls, a seaweed salad and a side of fried rice will only put you back $20.
1830 SW 3rd Ave.; 305-856-9016

Seems like laundromats are the key to striking gold, as, while your laundry receives a quick fluff and fold at Mary's Laundry, you can enjoy a delicious pan con bistec at the unnamed window next door. The Cuban delicacy is made to order while you wait, and it's just $4. Just make sure to order in Spanish (¿Me da un pan con bistec por favor?).
Next to Mary's Laundry, 2542 SW 27th Ave.; 305-443-6672

One Saturday every month, Miami rock band Outereach gets together with some of the city's best local artists and take over downtown's cozy indoor-outdoor venue PS-14 for an independent showcase of talent during Unbreak Miami. The cozy space is transformed into an art mecca for the night, with paintings and photography adorning the wall, films projected among the trees on the outdoor screen and tunes by local bands and DJs. All of it's just $7.
28 NE 14th St.; myspace.com/unbreakmiami

We all appreciate the trendy clothing boutiques popping up all over town. Our wallets? Not so much. Stretch your paycheck by taking a trip to Miami's Fashion District. Strictly for wholesale, the district opens its doors on Saturdays only to the public. Everything from tops and bags to shoes and jewelry sold at your favorite boutique are found here for about half the price. Our favorites: Adriana and Hanabella.
Northwest 5th Avenue from 24th to 29th Streets

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Outereach at PS14's Unbreak Miami event. Photo: Tanya Manfrediz