M Park Opens at The Shops at Midtown Miami

When visiting The Shops of Midtown Miami this summer, guests will find a new and improved park at the center’s central round-about: M Park. This beautiful destination is made up of an enclosed playground for kids and an open grassy space with tables and benches.

The playground portion of the park is designed for kids ages 2 to 12, and it’s home to four different structures featuring climbers, slides, rock walls and other child-friendly activities. Because of M Park’s central location and multiple tables, it’s also ideal for an open-air dining experience.

The Shops at Midtown Miami has no shortage of delicious restaurants, and we’ve rounded up some of our favorites. Pick up some takeout from these four awesome spots and then head on over to the park to enjoy the sights and bites.

100 Montaditos

100 Montaditos’ name says it all. Expect dozens upon dozens of the Spanish sandwich to choose from at this Midtown favorite. These tapa-sized selections are packed with meats, cheeses and other fillings galore. Think Serrano ham, chorizo, fresh mozzarella, meatballs, grilled chicken and more. If you can think of a protein, it’s likely on the menu.

Three to four sandwiches should be enough for the average appetite, and there are several larger platters available for families and big groups. Healthy bowls and salads are also on sale along with snacks like cheese fries, croquettes and olives.

Ayesha Indian Fine Dining

Ayesha Indian Fine Dining serves up some of the best Indian food in town — period. Don’t let the fine dining label fool you: This delicious food travels well, especially with the park just a few steps away. One of many highlights on the menu are the crispy samosas. These small bites of heaven on earth come with various fillings like chicken, lamb and veggies. Another favorite: the chicken tikka with its tasty blend of Indian spices.

FYI: Portions are huge. We found our chicken tikka order more than enough to feed the both of us. So be prepared for leftovers – you’re definitely getting your money’s worth.

Ichimi Ramen

If you’re craving ramen and other satisfying Asian cuisine, look no further than Ichimi. Also located across from M Park, Ichimi is known for its variety of slurp-worthy ramen selections. You can stick to the namesake Ichimi ramen or switch things up with a curry or seafood ramen. There’s no wrong choice here.

Too hot for ramen? No problem: There’s also an extensive list of snacks like crispy pig ears, spied shrimp, duck wings, and bao buns up for grabs, as well as rice bowls that can all be enjoyed at M Park.

Miami Squeeze

Park visitors looking to nosh on lighter fare should head over to Miami Squeeze. You can’t help but smile upon walking into the juice bar – the place screams “good vibes.” Expect to find healthy items in spades here, including wraps, salads, paninis, acai bowls and vegan specialties; it’s an enormous menu. Given the South Florida heat lately, we’re partial to the place’s refreshing smoothies and juices — we pounded a Mango Berry and Peachy King at the park.