Local Guru: Dave Mills
Occupation: Reservations Manager – Tides South Beach
Few people know South Beach better than Dave Mills, the Reservations Manager at the Tides South Beach Hotel in Miami Beach. He gave us the full scoop on what LGBT travelers need to know to make thier stay in Miami a complete success! Read below to see what Mr. Mills has to share on what to do, where to eat and drink and more while in Miami
Occupation: Reservations Manager – Tides South Beach
Twitter: @southbeachtides Instagram: tidessouthbeach
How long have you lived in Miami?: 9 years
Why did you move there?: It was better weather in Miami than Cleveland.
What's your favorite thing about Tides South Beach? What makes it stand out? There are so many things that make The Tides unique. The classic Art Deco design, the fact that you have a guaranteed ocean view in each and every room, the huge rooms, Alain our doorman who greets you as you come and go during your stay. Wow, there is really no one thing, but a combination of things that makes The Tides stand out. Personally, I can think of no other hotel in Miami Beach that can compare.
Favorite restaurant?: Outside of our own restaurant of course. For a casual dinner before going out, the 11th Street Diner at Washington and 11th Street! It is housed in an converted train car, and doesn’t look like it would have great food, but looks are deceiving. You gotta try their milkshakes too. I try to avoid a lot of the touristy places but if you want to enjoy people watching, then the News Café is a nice spot on Ocean Drive where you might catch a celebrity having their morning coffee.
Favorite bar/club?: Hands down, the place to find me on a weekend night is Twist on Washington Ave at 11th for happy hour in the Bungalow Bar with Suzy, two for one cocktails, til 9 pm…. Ask Suzy for my special drink “Diabetes in a Glass.” After 11pm the entire club opens with 7 bars, three dance floors, and no cover, serving until 5 am.
For something a little more cozy, I love “Cabaret” on 12th between Collins and Washington, just around the corner from the hotel. Every employee is an entertainer, you might turn around and find your bartender tickling the ivories and crooning on stage.
What three things do I have to pack to enjoy your city?: Sunscreen!!!! Flip Flops, and a sense of adventure. But please, whatever you do, leave the attitude at home.
Best time of year to visit?: Most people would say the winter time, when it is cold up north. But honestly I believe the summer is a great time to visit Miami Beach, the water is warm, the temps aren’t really that bad, and most things are less expensive. However for a great time the Thanksgiving Weekend for White Party, March for Winter Party, or April for the Miami Beach Pride Festival are real hoots.
I’m in town for 24 hours: What are 3 things I absolutely have to do?: Only 3!? Let me make it 5.
1. See the drag show at Palace
2. Tip a stripper at Twist
3. Take a selfie at Versace Mansion
4. Eat at Joe’s Stone Crab
5. Spend the night at The Tides South Beach
