Aventura

This ain’t your grandma’s retirement community. Well, maybe it is. Some neighborhoods grow organically; Aventura was built (note the palm-tree-lined streets). Overshadowing the golf course is the ginormous mall. Go for the sales; stay for the air conditioning.

EXPLORE ANOTHER NEIGHBORHOOD:

Willow Stream Spa

19999 W Country Club Dr 305-933-6930

It’s a 25,000-square-foot spa complete with fitness center, garden views, and domed skylight. Try one of the inventive treatments or opt for a good pounding (by which we mean a deep tissue massage).

Jessie

20533 Biscayne Blvd 305-933-8198

A trendy boutique in Aventura that’s not in the mall? If you guessed Jessie, you win goods from designers like Geren Ford, Vince, Twelfth Street, Botkier, and J Brand.

Bar Rosso Restaurant & Vinoteca

19004 NE 29th Ave 305-933-3418

An Aventura restaurant that’s not in a mall? How innovative! Get neighborly at this low-key enoteca. Pair rustic Italian dishes with the stellar wine list (more than 100 bottles).

So-Mi

2775 NE 187th St 786-787-9087

Between the rocking chair and comfy couch, the oh-so-girly shop feels like home. Racks are full of contemporary favorites like Stella & Jamie and Tibi. Also jewelry, handbags, and knickknacks like pretty journals.

Chef Allen's

19088 NE 29th Ave 305-935-2900

Locally caught fish and regional produce take center stage at this landmark bistro. The man behind the name — chef Allen Susser — gussies up New American dishes with playful Caribbean spices and flavors.