Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Cafe to Reopen

Photo by Christina Staalstrom

​Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of those Miami gems that just gets better with age. Next month you'll be able to enjoy it at the cafe, which is due to re-open next month. The place was closed in 2005 when Hurricane Wilma flooded the ground level cafe located in James Deering's old smoking and billiard rooms.

The new place will have a fresh look that maintains the space's historical significance. Joel Hoffman, executive director, tells us that they've "tried to bring back the feel of the space, even if not the materials in all cases." From a restored fireplace to refurbished sinks and glass paned doors that are replicas of the original, "the space evokes some elements of the historic in the look and feel of the space."

Bringing in integral historic elements like window treatments, cabinets, and wicker furniture gives it all a homey feel. During the lengthy construction project, Hoffman and his team used historical drawings to recreate a space, both outdoor and in, that is similar to what was found here during the 1920s.

Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

James Deering's original smoking room

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The current food service option is a trailer that sits to the side of the building with concessionaire Joy Wallace Catering offering al fresco dining. Wallace has been concessionaire to Vizcaya since 2004, collaborating closely with the museum on both menu items and merchandise. The cafe dates back to the 1950s, but the old version was a far cry from the historically accurate and beautifully designed new surroundings.

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Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

​The Vizcaya cafe will offer a large selection of salads, sandwiches and gourmet lunch fare. Stay tuned for a preview of the menu in the coming weeks.

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