MIA Magazine 2018 American Black Film Festival | Page 9

By Kechi Okpala The district of Overtown is a community of heritage, culture, and entertainment. One of the oldest black neighborhoods in Miami, it is a place that reflects the true essence of black Miami. Formally known as “Colored Town,” it was the place where black U.S. born citizens and international immigrants alike worked and entertained on Miami Beach would live, lodge, and entertain during the period of segregation because they were not allowed onto Miami Beach. “Overtown” became the “Harlem” of the South for famous people including Billie Holiday, Sammy Davis Jr., Nat King Cole, and Muhammad Ali who visited Miami to perform their latest hits and indulge in getaway vacations. The fun, history, and fanfare still echo within the community with so much to do and experience. From family activities, delectable restaurants, and historic tours, “Experience Overtown” provides a listing of the most popular spots to go when visiting the history district. PLACES TO EAT: Jackson Soul Food 950 N.W. 3rd Avenue Miami, FL 33136 www.jacksonsoulfood.com Established in 1946, this comfort-style soul food restaurant is the one of the go-to-places in the Overtown community. It serves as a foundation for a lineage of first-class establishments. Its fish and grits breakfast platter is enough for two to share. Lil Greenhouse Grill 1300 N.W. 3rd Avenue Miami, FL 33136 www.lilgreenhousegrill.com In the heart of Overtown, this edgy neo-soul restaurant satisfies all your tastes buds especially if you are a foodie. Try their much talked about barbecue ribs and collard greens. Special Herbs All Natural Juice Bar 1121 N.W. 3rd Avenue Miami, FL 33136 @SpecialHerbsOT Health and wellness is what Special Herbs All Natural Juice Bar is all about. Want something refreshing, the “Soul Shot” gives a boost of ginger to your soul. House of Wings Miami 1039 N.W. 3rd Avenue Miami, FL 33136 www.houseofwingsmiami.com Wings, wings, wings is this establishment’s forte. It offers 60-plus flavors of chicken wings with a choice of grilled or fried seafood. 2 Guys Restaurant 1490 N.W. 3rd Avenue Miami, FL 33136 Have a lunch date at 2 Guys and order from their assortment of sandwich wraps. Mrs. Moore’s Bakery 122 N.W. 14th Street Miami, FL 33136 www.mrsmooresbakery.com Mrs. Moore’s Bakery is a family-owned and operated bakery. Mrs. Moore started baking with her mother and offers a variety of delicious cakes and sweet potato pie. BB9