WD 555

If you're like me, when you go buy a bottle of wine, you can't wait to open it and take a sip. The thought of tasting it right there and then, is incredibly alluring. As a matter of fact, many times I fantasize about what dish  I'd pair my newly purchased bottle of wine with, or even wondered what would bring out its flavor the most. To be able to do this, is unbelievable and at WD 555, located at 555 Jefferson Avenue in Miami Beach, you can.

Formerly known as Wine Depot, a popular neighborhood wine store in South Beach, WD 555 is under new ownership. It has taken Wine Depot's original concept of enjoying wine purchases while delighting the senses with light bites - to new levels; offering over 300 exquisite wines at very affordable prices. The menu has been expanded to include signature flavors from the Mediterranean coast such as Mediterranean anchovies and seared octopus, along with favorites such as Foie Gras "Au Torchon" and cheese and charcuterie platters. Another new addition to satisfy the palate is a grilling station that will offer Ribeye and Skirt Steaks, Rack of Lamb and Tuna dishes accompanied by typical South of France, Greece and Italy sides.

The decor inside WD 555 continues to be sleek and ultra-modern with a horseshoe-shaped bar overlooking the bistro tables and aisles of wines. The outside patio features a large, beautiful space enclosed with a brick wall, lighted palm trees and lined on one side with their very own grapes. While it's not a vineyard, I thought that was extremely original. The furniture is chic, consisting of Italy's Pedrami Bergamo's white acrylic tables and whicker chairs. It is a very relaxing and welcoming ambiance set apart from the usual SoBe scene. You know what also makes it unique from every other place on the beach? It has its own parking lot.

Besides the updated wine list, I was impressed by the selection of Rose, Champagne and Grand Cru. I totally enjoyed the Rose and if you want to come sample some for yourself, the best time is during their new Pink Friday, a WD 555 twist on traditional Happy Hours. Every Friday evening from 5 pm to 10 pm (notice the long hours) you can come and indulge on $1 tapas and $5 glasses of Rose, while listening to the tunes of DJ Rico from Paris. Seriously, what better way to start the engines for a hot night? Kick off the weekend while picking up a bottle or two to continue the party at home. Oh yeah!

For more information on WD 555, you can visit their website at http://www.winedepotmiami.com.