BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: WANDERLUST CAFÉ & LOUNGE

We recently had the chance to explore the story behind Wanderlust Miami Beach, a vibrant new venue that's set to become the heartbeat of the local community. As the first restaurant to launch under the City's newly updated Pop Up Venue Program, Wanderlust has benefited from accelerated support to expedite its opening. In this exclusive Q&A, the founders reveal their inspiration for creating Wanderlust, a place where locals can connect, enjoy high-quality food and drinks, and experience curated entertainment. From its unique fusion of American comfort food with international flavors to its art deco glam and tropical flair, Wanderlust promises to be more than just a dining experience. Read on to discover what makes Wanderlust Miami Beach the next big thing in town!

Can you tell us a bit about Wanderlust Miami Beach and what inspired you to start this business?  

We’ve lived in South Beach for many years and one of the things we always felt was lacking was a place meant for the locals, where we could all get together and connect while enjoying affordable high-quality food and drinks along with very personalized service and curated entertainment.  In a city that is so heavily focused on commercialism, we really wanted to bring this vision to the community.   “Wanderlust” is a German word that expresses a strong desire to expand one’s horizons and a fascination for culture, people, and places.  Miami is such a unique blend of people and cultures so “Wanderlust” felt like the perfect name for a place that brings everyone together in a safe, inclusive space where diversity, artistry, and self-expression are celebrated.  “Wanderlust” is more than just a venue: it’s a heartbeat for community, culture, and connection.

What makes Wanderlust unique compared to other dining experiences in Miami Beach?

We are driven by a strong intention for unity and expansion through connection and collectiveness.   We are a restaurant, bar, and lounge, but also a platform to connect, network, entertain, decompress, and have fun.    We strive to bring something special to the community and contribute meaningfully to the vibrant landscape of South Beach.

What are some of the signature dishes or drinks that customers can look forward to at Wanderlust? 

Guests can look forward to an exciting fusion of American comfort food with Latin and international flavors.  We’re proudly run by a Midwest family with over 30 years of experience in the industry, along with a Latin culinary artist known for bold, flavor-packed creations.  We speak multiple languages at Wanderlust, but “flavor” is the most universal.  Try our signature Cheese Curds with our homemade garlic cilantro sauce, or our fresh, homemade guacamole, or any of our flavor-packed steak, chicken, burger or sandwich creations.  We offer Italian Bellinis, frozen margaritas, frozen cosmos and we are constantly exploring new flavors and offering rotating specials.

How do you ensure the quality and authenticity of the food and beverages you serve? 

We have more than 30 years in the field welcoming guests with high-quality food, drinks, and service.  We have selected staple items from international cuisines, remaining sensitive to Miami’s unique blend of cultures and tropical weather.  Delicious recipes, fresh ingredients and stellar work ethics ensure the quality of our products.

Why did you choose Miami Beach as the location for Wanderlust? 

Miami Beach has been our home for many years, and we feel acutely sensitive to the needs of the locals, so it only made sense to pursue our vision here at home. Miami hosts people from all over the world, and we love international authentic flavors, so this Miami truly feels like the perfect fit for our concept.

How does the ambiance of Wanderlust reflect the vibrant culture of Miami Beach?

The ambiance at Wanderlust is a love letter to the electric soul of Miami Beach – colorful, bold, and unapologetically alive.  Our space blends art deco glam with tropical flair, neon lights with lush greenery, and a soundtrack that moves from sunrise chill to late-night groove.

Can you share your experience with the City's Pop-Up Venue program and how it has benefited Wanderlust?

The pop-up program allowed Wanderlust to open at an accelerated rate.  Despite some hurdles, the team behind the program was very accommodating and worked with us every step of the way.

What advice would you give to other businesses considering participating in this program?  Go for it!  It’s here to help you and team behind the program are motivated and driven.

How does Wanderlust engage with the local community and contribute to the Miami Beach culture?

At its heart, Wanderlust is a celebration of artistry and self-expression.  Our programming will include live performances (showcasing emerging local talent, from acoustic sets and indie pop to soulful vocals, comedians, and dancers), dinner-theatre shows (high-concept, immersive performances, themed nights, and dynamic visuals), and creative events (including paint-and-sip nights, art installations, and other participatory cultural gatherings that connects guests to local creatives.)

Are there any upcoming events or special promotions that customers should know about? 

Our grand opening will be happening in July!  Check our Instagram for details on the upcoming announcement!

What do you think makes Miami Beach an attractive location for new businesses?

Miami Beach is a vibrant, culturally diverse landscape that pulses with life.  It’s a global destination where art, culture, and cuisine collide daily, offering endless opportunities to connect with locals and tourists a-like.  What better place to bring our vision to life!

How has the support from the City of Miami Beach and local organizations helped in establishing and growing Wanderlust? 

The support has been incredible!  We were pleasantly surprised by just how much the city really cares about its community and wants to see community-oriented businesses like ours successful.  They have really gone the extra mile in helping us open.

What are your future plans for Wanderlust? Are there any exciting developments or expansions on the horizon? 

For now, we will just be focusing on making our vision a reality.  After our grand opening, we will begin scheduling events and shows.  Stay tuned!

How do you see Wanderlust evolving in the next few years? 

Wanderlust is just getting started.  We see it evolving into a full sensory experience with shows unlike anything anyone’s experienced before.  We will be more than just a café and lounge, but a cultural hub.  As our loyal community grows, so will our vision.  We’re not following trends, we’re setting them.  Expect the unexpected in the best possible way.   See you soon!

We invite you to learn more about the City's newly updated Pop Up Venue Program and the many other business support incentives and programs available in Miami Beach. These initiatives are designed to help businesses like Wanderlust Miami Beach thrive and open their doors more quickly.

For more information on how you can take advantage of these opportunities, please visit www.mbbiz.com or email mbbiz@miamibeachfl.gov. Let's work together to support our local businesses and continue to make Miami Beach a vibrant and dynamic community!

Wanderlust is located at 1200 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

Instagram: @wanderlust.miamibeach.