Wanderlust Café & Lounge Becomes First Pop-Up Restaurant Under Miami Beach’s New Incentives

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach will join the local business community in welcoming Wanderlust Café & Lounge for its grand opening on Friday, July 25 at 5 p.m. Wanderlust is the first restaurant to benefit from the city's reimagined pop-up venue program.

“Miami Beach is thrilled to welcome Wanderlust Café & Lounge as the first pop-up restaurant and bar to open under our new program, and I couldn’t be more proud that it’s LGTBQ-owned,” said Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernandez, who championed the change. “This milestone reflects what’s possible when we remove barriers and create real opportunities for local, creative entrepreneurs. Wanderlust is bringing queer energy, gay community, and a rainbow of joy back to the heart of Washington Avenue. It’s exactly the kind of innovation and inclusivity we set out to inspire and I’m honored to have championed it.”

The creation of Miami Beach residents, Wanderlust Café & Lounge is intended to be a place where locals can socialize, enjoy high-quality food and drinks while experiencing curated entertainment. The business combines a unique fusion of American comfort food with international flavors, art deco glamour and tropical flair.

“This pop-up program helps activate underused spaces and energize our neighborhoods,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “It’s another way we are supporting our business community and driving a stronger local economy.”

The café is located at 1200 Washington Ave. in South Beach and features dishes like cheese curds with garlic and coriander sauce, homemade guacamole, and aromatic steak, chicken, burger and sandwich creations.

Entertainment will range from laid-back morning vibes to nighttime grooves with live performances that include indie pop, soulful vocals, comedians, dancers and dinner theater. The venue also plans to hold painting and cocktail nights, art installations and other participatory cultural events that connect guests with local creatives.

“The pop-up program enabled Wanderlust to accelerate its opening,” according to Wanderlust Café & Lounge Managing Member Jerrid Meyer. “The team behind the program was very accommodating and supported us every step of the way.”

To learn more about Miami Beach pop-up permits, click here. Pop-up permits require approval by the property owner or landlord as well as the tenant.

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