A Business Traveler's Guide to Miami

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Updated: October 21, 2009

South Florida is a hotbed of fun, but sometimes the itinerary calls for more business than pleasure. All work and no play in Miami? Bah! Here are the meeting-friendly hotels that won't turn boardrooms into bored rooms, along with the city's best steakhouses and one-of-a-kind restaurants to nail down the deal that you just can't afford to lose. (Photo: Courtesy of Loews Miami Beach)

On this page:Miami Business Hotels, Can't-Miss Business Restaurants.

Miami Business Hotels

  1. 1 Hyatt Regency Coral Gables
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    50 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables, FL 33134 (map)

    The "Hall of Ambassadors" is a throwback boardroom, stocked with antique furniture, a 20-foot ceiling, and a tranquil outdoor courtyard garden for when 20 feet of upside isn't enough. The hotel is also in the heart of downtown Coral Gables, where some of the city's finest restaurants and shops dot Miracle Mile.

  2. 2 InterContinental Miami
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    100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, FL 33131 (map)

    This towering downtown monolith has settled international disputes, hosting global dignitaries and prolific summits. With 66,000 square feet of event space, there's plenty of elbowroom. Bayside is a scenic block away, offering waterfront dining, festive watering holes, and eclectic retail outlets.

  3. 3 4 Star Rating: Recommended Loews Hotel
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    1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (map)

    South Beach is a nightlife magnet, but its largest hotel knows how to button up its shirt when it has to. Managers can plan and confirm events within 24 hours. The beachfront location is also a plus for extended breaks or non-attendees angling for a tan. When it's time to entertain, the always electric Lincoln Road strip of outdoor shops and eateries is just down the street.

  4. 4 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Mandarin Oriental
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    500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131 (map)

    Everything's Zen at this posh bayfront resort, a short bridge away from the financial district. The 15,000-square foot conference center houses a 600-seat grand ballroom, 15 breakout rooms, and a business center. The Asian-themed oasis also features the one-two culinary punch of the tony Azul and the casual Cafe Sambal. Seal the deal at the martini bar, where 250 different varieties are available.

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Angelo and Maxies at Mayfair Hotel and Spa
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    3000 Florida Avenue, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (map)

    Within walking distance to the Miami Convention Center, this all-suite hotel also houses seven versatile meeting rooms. The Coconut Grove location finds guests a short walk from the three-story Cocowalk complex, complete with a lively dueling piano bar on the top floor.

Can't-Miss Business Restaurants

  1. 6 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended 11th Street Diner
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    1065 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (map)

    This retro boxcar diner isn't fancy. However, it never closes, so you can haggle, barter and compromise until you're done. There's no point in watching the clock or the waistlines, as the specialties are heavy comfort food staples like meatloaf and corned beef hash.

  2. 7 4 Star Rating: Recommended Porcao Churrascaria
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    801 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131 (map)

    Miami's original churrascaria is a "meat" market, as gauchos circle the tables with skewers of Brazilian meats. They keep coming until patrons flip over the red-light cards on their tables, affording them the opportunity to digest or opt for lighter fare at the massive salad bar.

  3. 8 3.5 Star Rating: Average Prime 112 Restaurant
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    112 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (map)

    Most high-end chophouses can feel stuffy, but this trendy steakhouse offers two floors of hot steaks and cool vibes. It's a celebrity magnet, and that's always good for a conversation starter down the line--even if it sometimes translates into a long wait for the next available table.

  4. 9 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended The Capital Grille
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    444 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 (map)

    The only "chain" eatery in this list is here for a good reason. It is smack dab in the heart of the bustling financial district, making it a haven for power lunches with deal-settling desserts. Regulars even get their own wine lockers.

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