pink

h pink

By Lisa Morales

It’s hard to stroll down rather than ‘salsa’ down Calle Ocho in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood. The colors, aromas, sounds and social vibe keep you smiling and dancing. It’s my Happy Place! If searching for Shocking Pink (FC0FC0), there's only one place in Miami to find that color on every block! Have you been? Here you’ll find a snapshot of Havana libre (free Havana) encapsulated in the minds and hearts of the Cubans who fled their homeland located just 90 miles away. This lively street is the best place to drink a cafecito, play dominoes, or sip on a Mojito while catching up with friends. While there’s a lot of tourist buses passing through, there’s still plenty of locals looking for an affordable lunch and cool refuge from the heat. If you prefer lunch on la Calle, line up at the ventanita (window). Foodie Tip: try an original Frita Cubana (seasoned hamburger with potato sticks) at El Rey de las Fritas. Enjoy the vibrant murals by Diana “Did” Contreras; stroll through Futurama Art Gallery and buy an original work of art; or enjoy a sweet, cool treat at Azucar Ice Cream. I wore my shocking pink Beautiisoles for the occasion, and my friend Liza, who joined us for lunch, coincidentally carried a matching purse. You must go, or as Cuban Americans and Pitbull say: “Dale!”

Photos (From top right): Guantanamera Cigars; Annie M. painting detail; Liza Gallardo Walton and Lisa Morales ; Lung Yai Thai Tapas mural on Calle 8 Opposite page: Diana Didi Contreras mural

Photos (From top): Sanguich de Miami bathroom wallpaper; Las Menina of Little Havana collarborative art project in Futurama Art Gallery in Little Havana; Street planter on Calle 8; Azucar Ice Cream