Toscana Divino’s Mauro Bortignon Receives Keys To The City

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Toscana Divino’s General Manager Mauro Bortignon was honored Friday evening July 24, 2015 in Brickell.  Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado presented Bortignon with a “Key to the City” in a lively celebration attended by friends, patrons, and other distinguished members of the community. The Mayor thanked Mr. Bortignon for his contributions to the culinary ecosystem of the city and for being an important part of the renaissance of Brickell and Downtown.

“I am sincerely honored to receive a Key to the City on behalf of Toscana Divino and the Italian-American community here in Miami,” said Mr. Bortignon, “This is really a recognition to the rich culinary and viticultural contribution that Italian-Americans have made since the mid 1700’s when the first Italian vintners arrived in Florida. The opportunity to promote the unique culinary traditions of Italy in the midst of the spectacular transformation of Miami’s Brickell-Downtown area is both humbling and exciting for me, my partners Stefano and Tommaso, and the entire Toscana Divino team,” continued Mr. Bortignon.

Demonstratively touched, Mr. Bortignon highlighted that he was specially moved by the attendance to the event of our longtime patrons and friends Chelin and Alfredo Duran. “Their presence is not only a celebration of our friendship but it is also symbolic of the strong community bond Toscana Divino has forged since opening its doors in 2012,” he added.

Toscana Divino was built in partnership with the Consortium of Italian Business, Wine and Fashion in Florence, Italy, with the intention of promoting Tuscan cuisine and products in Miami. The restaurant is owned and managed by native Italians and restaurant industry veterans Stefano Cavinato, Tommaso Morelato, and Mr. Bortignon. When asked to comment on what it meant for a member of the Toscana Divino team to receive a Key to the City, Mr. Cavinato said: “Mauro really embodies the passion of Italian cuisine and culture and he brings it alive in the restaurant. The city’s acknowledgment is really an honor to all of us.”

In the same spirit, his partner, Mr. Morelato underscored that Mr. Bortignon was the perfect cultural ambassador for everything Italian. “Before joining our team,” he said, “Mauro spent several years in New York working for famous Italian chef Mario Batali. Here in Miami, he spent 6 years working for the iconic and world-renown Casa Tua. We are really proud to have him as part of our team.”

When describing the Toscana Divino experience, Mr. Bortignon states that: “We want our patrons to feel they are entering a world that is thoroughly Tuscan, but also thoroughly contemporary. We are creating a link between the Tuscan region and the Miami area, thereby building a bridge between our two cultures.”

About Toscana Divino

Since opening its doors in 2012, Toscana Divino, recently voted the best restaurant in Brickell by the Miami New Times, is known for presenting both the most contemporary and traditional Tuscan and Italian cuisine, including the world-famous Fiorentina steak. Toscana Divino’s menu, draws its inspiration from classic dishes found throughout Tuscany featuring pastas made fresh in house, fresh seasonal ingredients from local markets or directly imported from Italy.  Toscana Divino continues to inspire unprecedented praise and rave reviews from such publications as the Miami Herald, Thrillist, Zagat, Miami. Toscana Divino is located 900 S. Miami Ave, Miami, FL in Mary Brickell Village.   For additional information, visit www.toscanadivino.com.

Aria Hotel Prague Video Review

Originally appeared on Hedonist Shedonist 

Staying at the Aria Hotel Prague was one of the highlights of my phenomenal trip. The hotel is sumptuous, cozy and ingrained with love and music. The staff is warm, the location is perfect, and the restaurant stimulated all of my senses. If you are looking for the best hotel to stay in Prague, the Aria Hotel will easily exceed your lofty expectations. Check out the Aria Hotel Prague video review below.

New Taxi App, ZabCab, Announces National Rollout Starting in Miami

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ZabCab (TM), a free new mobile app that connects passengers to licensed taxi drivers with a tap on their smartphone. The app makes grabbing a cab in Miami simple.  Users are only required to download the app, enter their first name and add their email address.  No lengthy profile or credit card required.

ZabCab aims to alleviate the hassle of getting a registered taxi in Miami by using your smart phone’s GPS technology to connect passengers to licensed taxi drivers within a short radius. Taxi drivers using ZabCab will reduce time spent searching for passengers and in turn, will maximize earning potential. After its inaugural launch in Miami, ZabCab will be announcing service in three major metropolitan cities over the next 90 days.

For more information, visit zabcab.com or contact:

THR33FOLD

Jamie Santucci

jamie@thr33fold.com

Posted in News   

Coda Restaurant Prague Review

My favorite places to dine always involve a chef that has an acute love for healthy, organic ingredients raised by small farms with oodles of affection. Chef David Šašek at the Coda Restaurant Prague represents the quintessence of this. Coda is located in the resplendent Aria Hotel, which boasts a classical music theme permeating throughout the property. The hotel is located on the northern side of the Charles Bridge by Prague Castle. The splendid cuisine, devotion towards ingredients, marvelous art & architecture, as well as the live pianist, created a symphonic ambiance for all of my senses. Check out the video review.

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Full review and photos available on Hedonist Shedonist.

Groove Cruise Miami is a Transcendent Journey

An excerpt from Hedonist Shedonist, the full article link is here.

I have traveled the world and experienced countless euphoric wonders, but few of them have managed to even graze “just the tip” of the majesty of the Groove Cruise. Even when you strip away the electrifying DJs, non-stop 96-hour party, breathtaking Bahamas beach, unobstructed views of sunrises and sunsets along the amazing ship, there is still so much more to the Groove Cruise. There is a special magic sauce erupting like a geyser from the ship —  it was flowing from the people, better known as the Groove Cruise Family, or #gcfam.

Picture over 2,700 people more amped up for this trip than they have been for anything else all year. This family is here to smile, hug, love, party and have the most epic time of their lives. With an 80% retention rate, these people are more than friends, they are family — and they likely have been grooving and cruising together for many years.  We were virgins, yet instantly felt like part of the fam’.  There are no cliques on board, just open arms. People have such a phenomenal time that they book next year’s Groove Cruise before they have even gotten off this year’s cruise!

I have been to many festivals and raves (Ultras, EDC, Life In Color, Bonnaroo, Phish Festivals….), yet the intoxicating vortex of energy swirling around the ship from the attendees was unlike anything I have ever experienced.  Not only were the people fun, adventurous, sweet and loving, but they were also good-hearted.  This is a trip where five iPhones and a diamond cartier watch were lost and instead of being pocketed by attendees, they were turned in to the ship’s Lost and Found.

Besides the people, the costumes were our favorite part of the Groove Cruise. The costumes were as prolific as an end-of-the-world gay party. People really GET INTO THEIR COSTUMES that range from the hilarious and debaucherous to the interactive and nostalgic. There are six different theme parties during the journey….

Article continues on Hedonist Shedonist…..

 

Pictures of Life in Color

Life In Color returned to Miami this past weekend and it was yet again an epic event. The World’s Largest Paint Party took over Sun Life Stadium right after Christmas as a kick ass present to the EDM fans of South Florida. Unlike Ultra where you are packed into a venue like sweaty sardines, Life in Color had a huge swath of land to roam around in. There were two mammoth stages packed with some of the best DJ’s in the world.

Our favorites were Diplo and Kaskade who put on insane shows. There was paint being sprayed from the stages so the revelers could get as wet and sticky as they wanted, but there were also safe zones for those who did not want to get drenched in paint. The vibe, people, music and fx were incredible and we can not wait until Life in Color returns next year.

Photos courtesy of Life in Color 

Full Coverage on Hedonist Shedonist 

Aventura Dance Cruise Ignites Your Latin Dancing Spirit

As originally appeared on Hedonist Shedonist

Picture this: the sounds of Latin music permeating the entryways as you approach a massive 855-foot long vessel. Light-footed aficionados swirl in tandem with international flags whirling in the wind. As you stroll along starboard and gaze upon the expanse of sea, you feel an unbridled excitement bubbling inside and all around you. At this moment, you feel the keen awareness that it’s going to be an epic time. Don’t believe us? Just click the video below.>

After a few hours, however, you realize what an understatement that truly was,  because we had a freaking blast on this years edition of the Aventura Dance Cruise (ADC). The 7th annual Aventura Dance Cruise chartered the entire Carnival Ecstasy cruise ship, so every person on board was there for the same reason — a love for Latin dance, its music and its culture. Each person on board signed up to be utterly immersed in salsa, bachata, kizomba, merengue and any other latin dance you can dream of.  No matter you interest or skill-level, what resulted was a sort of kinship that had over 2,400 people dancing, drinking and singing on every inch of the ship until the wee hours of the night.

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The festivities were opened and closed by one of Latin music’s most influential vocalists and living legend José “El Canario” Alberto, who rocked the ship with two performances that brought back a tidal wave of beautiful nostalgic memories.
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We hung out with El Canario and his entourage during the private ADC party on a Bahamas beach. All of the artists were very approachable and took time to hang out with all their fans.
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Continue reading “Aventura Dance Cruise Ignites Your Latin Dancing Spirit”

Pictures of Casa Elyx Art Basel Party

The newly opened Miami Beach EDITION hotel by Ian Schrager is your sequel to the Delano Miami Beach. It’s no wonder why Viet N’Guyen chose this location for a private pop-up club to showcase Absolut Elyx.

Casa Elyx, a pop-up party in the penthouse of The EDITION, featured cocktails by John Lermayer that were served in a heavy copper pineapple, a swimming pool, ocean views, live music and a hidden speakeasy.

Jonas Tahlin, Chief Executive Officer for Absolut Elyx was present to greet guests and answer questions about the luxury vodka. The Miami Beach EDITION Hotel will surely be the new hangout for South Florida travelers and Casa Elyx did an amazing job hosting vacationers and locals by providing an relaxing escape from the Art Basel frenzy.

Pictures of the VH1 Scope Party

VH1 + SCOPE collaborated for the third time this year to once again present its fused platform of art and music. The VIP only private event featured live performances by platinum, award-winning, Danish singer-songwriter NABIHA and American hip-hop recording artist and producer, Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean.

Guests also experienced an immersive art installation by the artist and calligrapher, Aerosyn-Lex Mestrovic. Mestrovic exhibited his hand-painted art work onto hundreds of feet of Japanese synthetic paper, which positioned the installation as the longest continuous painting shown at this year’s Art Basel event.

Photographs Courtesy of Hedonist Shedonist

 

 

 

 

Pictures of Hardwell Concert in Miami

Photo credit: Pedro Alvarez of Hedonist Shedonist

The most popular DJ in the world tore up the stage in Miami in front of thousands of screaming and fawning fans.  Hardwell has been the world’s #1 DJ according to DJ Magazine‘s Top 100 DJs poll in both 2014 and 2013 and he proved it on stage. He was at Bayfront Park for his I am Hardwell Tour and put on a phenomenal show with enchanting and hypnotic lights and a sound system that blew people away. Beautiful people in amazing costumes were on full display dancing all night.Enjoy the pictures of the Hardwell concert and the attendees below.

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Grovetoberfest 2014 Photographs and Recap

The epic Grovetoberfest, the “most scenic beer festival in the world”, returned for the fourth time to Coconut Grove and served over 300 great beers from across the world.  Over 7,000 beer enthusiasts showed up to pound some brewskis, eat some food, dance, smile and laugh. Grovetoberfest is all about the craft beer and has a strong focus on the local craft beer scene. Some of Miami’s top chefs like Chef Todd Haven and Chef Giorgio Rapacavoli rocked the Kitchen Lab, where they demonstrated gourmet cooking with craft beer. Beer Tasting 101 was hosted by FIU’s Beer Academy and taught newbies the basics of craft beer tasting. People were also dancing to the live music all day long. Grovetoberfest is always a blast and if you missed it we feel sorry for you. Fear not though, because Sprung Beer Festival  is right around the corner in March!

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

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Seed Wine and Food Festival Photographs and Recap

Miami pushed aside its addiction to Cuban food to exuberantly welcome the first annual Seed Food & Wine Festival.  It was a five day Vegan immersion focusing on healthy and delicious plant-based foods. The festival itself was held for one day in a giant tent, normally reserved for Art Basel shows. The tent was packed with vendors and attendees. The fest was glorious with scrumptious food, sweets, ice cream, juices, sauces, books, education, celebrities and beautiful people. The energy at the event was so amazing and we were thrilled to be a part of it. We can not wait for the second annual Seed Fest.

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

Australian Lamb Immersion with Miami’s Top Chefs

I always thought I adequately appreciated the craft of a chef. That was until I was invited to cook with Miami’s top chefs for a day at an Australian Lamb Immersion. After spending a whopping four hours drinking, laughing and cooking with these titans, I could barely stand up straight.  #Cheflife is ridiculously arduous, but these Miami chefs are rowdy, alcohol-guzzling warriors who dazzle us with their deft skills and magnificent plates.

The Australian Lamb & Beef Immersion was hosted by Meat & Livestock Australia to extol the benefits of meat from the Land Down Under. The continent that has become well known for its delicious wine is about to become just as famous for its succulent cuts of meat. Aussie meat is natural and untainted by chemicals. Their country is about as big as the US, but they have a population of only 23 million, compared with our 317 million. That means, as stated on the Meat & Livestock Australia website: they have an “abundance of pasture land and mild climate, which allow (their) livestock to be entirely grass-fed in a healthy and natural environment. All livestock are free of artificial additives and hormone growth promotant. (They are) pure products of a pure environment.” To put it in relatable US terms: Australian Lamb & Meat = Scarlett Johansson and American Lamb & Meat = Jasmine Tridevil! 

The day started in my hood, with a trip to the kitchen at the Miami Marriott in Edgewater (a 10 block “neighborhood” next to the Miami Heat’s arena). Upon entering the banquet kitchen floor, I found Master Butcher Doug Piper carving up an entire lamb to the delightful attention of 15 of South Florida’s top chefs.

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By top chefs, we’re are talking about talented culinary experts like (listed in alphabetical order, by restaurant):

The beloved Aussie, Chef Aaron Brooks and his loco tequila-swigging Sous Chef Jose Gomez were right next to the carcass carving station whipping up seemingly endless and sensational lamb dishes for us all to try, while we watched Doug continue to tear apart the lamb, limb from freaking limb. The lamb was tender, juicy and oozing with flavor. I believe we tasted virtually every part from tongue to tail.

After being more stuffed than a Turducken, they decided to feed us lunch!? Most of the chefs found this to be an opportune time to start drinking instead. There was some great convos marinating around the table about restaurant working conditions, depraved contests in Thailand and the smallest kitchen in Miami, which we believe is Harry’s Pizzeria.

After our primarily liquid lunch, we picked numbers out of a hat and were divvied up into teams. I was fortunate enough to be teamed up with the extraordinary talented Chef Thomas Griese of Michael Mina 74 and Chef Joshua Wahler of Estiatorio Milos by Costas Spiliadis. They were surprisingly chill with having me, a kitchen gimp who can not even julienne vegetables properly, as part of their team.

Chef/Consultant Adam Moore was our freaking awesome host. He was so funny and chill and curated a diverse and notable collection of beers for us to pound in the kitchen. He even set up little coolers underneath our tables to keep ‘em cold while we were slaving away.

There were a total of five teams and each were given a basket of diverse ingredients along with different cuts of scrumptious Australian lamb. Below is a photo of my team’s instructions and ingredient list.

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This is where the real fun began for me, because although I do not know how to cook, borrowed an apron (Thank you, Chef Adam) strapped it on and dove right in. Cooking is intense and grueling manual labor. The kitchen is hot, you are on your feet, running around and working incessantly — not at all like the nonchalant freelance journalist lifestyle I am accustomed to. I was slicing, dicing, sprinting to grab ingredients, saucing, plating, gulping beers and grilling lamb. It was a unique and extraordinary experience.

My team ended up making an incredible Molasses Glazed Carpaccio, Fennel Salad, Orange Marmalade.

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We also served a Molasses Glazed Leg of Lamb, Orange Marmalade, Bourbon and Cous Cous as well as Purple grits with Pimento.

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After we were done in the kitchen, the finished plates were presented al fresco. The chefs and I celebrated our conquest of Aussie lamb by drinking tequila straight from the bottle. The dishes were gorgeous as you can see from the album below. The chefs were able to embrace the versatility of Australian lamb by preparing it in new and interesting ways. There were Asian, Southern, Italian, French and Latin influenced lamb dishes. I unfortunately, did not have enough room to sample everything, but the handful I tried were sensational.

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The experience felt like a once-in-a-lifetime blessed event. The opportunity to feel like a real chef and be surrounded by such profoundly talented and fun culinary masters was humbling. It really cultivated a deeper sense of appreciation for the life of a chef, as well as the beauty of Australian lamb.

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

 

Lenny Kravitz Rocked Miami to Celebrate his New Album “Strut”

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His musical talents and sexy persona inspire adulation, lust, love and respect across music fans of both sexes. Yes, Lenny Kravitz is quite a beloved man in Miami. Our hometown rockstar just released his new album “Strut” and came home to Miami to celebrate it with a very intimate performance. We were blessed to be invited and were absolutely blown away. We have been to many concerts, but being so close to a rockstar like Lenny, to feel his intense energy in a room with less than 100 fans in it, was simply amazeballs.  He absolutely killed it, playing his famous hits as well as songs from his new album. Even when he was playing with over 12 band members, one could really feel the depth of his sound. It was a unique and unforgettable experience.

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We know you are craving to get your hands on that new Lenny album. If you purchase Strut from Walmart (Only $10) you will also receive an exclusive digital copy of the Lenny Kravitz Live in Miami 6-song soundcheck performance as well as the full digital album download. You can view the Lenny Kravtiz interview and music videos from the Miami performance here. 

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Thank you for rocking out Miami, Lenny!

Keep up with new artists being featured by follow Walmart Soundcheck on Facebook:@WMSoundcheck :: Twitter: @WMSoundcheck :: Instagram: @WMSoundcheck

Win A Guitar Autographed By Lenny Kravitz

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

 

Digest Miami Launches Bureau of Spirits at A.I.R. Miami Beach

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Digest Miami continues its commitment to culinary exploration with these intimate and unique experiences and launched of Bureau of Spirits,  a series of rotating craft spirits and culinary events bringing together local and national small batch distilleries, craft breweries and South Florida’s best local chefs. Each Bureau of Spirits event features a meet and greet with master distillers and brewers, unique cocktails and tastings, chefs’ selected pairings and an intimate opportunity to learn about the people and processes that make up the craft movement.

Bureau of Spirits launch party took place Thursday, September 25th at the A.I.R. (Artists in Residence) on Miami Beach. This initial event highlighted three Florida distilleries including Wicked Dolphin, Miami Club Rum and Alchemist Distilleries with a complimentary tasting and cocktail selection. Kris Wessel of Oolite created a delectable menu of passed hors d’oeuvres to complement the evening. All of the refreshments will be made with local produce from our friend and expert forager, Nick Bernal of Seasons Farm Fresh, a group of foragers that provide sustainably grown and harvested produce from Florida’s local farms.

The Bureau of Spirits launch also celebrated the official kickoff of the 2nd Annual CRAFT: Spirits & Beer to be held in January 2015.

Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

Downtown Bistro Miami Now Offers Dinner

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Le Steak Tartare au Couteau- raw filet mignon cut by hand, capers, onions. anchovies, dijon mustard & quail egg. It was a very French way to consume filet. The bread was crunchy enough to be included with the Rice Krispy brothers and the quail egg you dumped into the shimmering slimy filet was fun and quite tasty.

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Lost my snailginity with this Escargots à la crème- Snails in a heavenly creamy Sauce and now hunting for these glorious creatures in my backyard. The texture was a cross between an artichoke and mushroom. The sauce had a zesty kick and complimented the escargot marvelously. The American in me kinda wished they were deep fried though.

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The Ravioli de Short Rib, Sauce quatre fromage, gambas pochées & asperges- Short Rib Ravioli with 4 cheese sauce, poached shrimp & asparagus was executed superbly. The four cheese sauce was rich and was a nice contrast to the short ribs. The fatass poached shrimp on top really set the dish off. A beautiful and unique plate.

Read the rest of the article and see the photo gallery at Hedonist Shedonist 

 

Win VIP Tickets to Grovetoberfest

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Soul of Miami is giving away 2 VIP tickets to Grovetoberfest!

To enter follow the directions below. Good Luck, and may the craziest diehard craft beer fan prevail! The contest will run through October 9th & the winner will be announced on all social media and in the widget below. You can tweet and comment everyday to enhance your chances of winning. See you at Grovetoberfest!

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Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Truck Festival

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The Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Truck Festival takes place every 3rd Saturday of the month. This is event is put together by Burger Beast and the folks at Magic City Casino where its held. There are always some great giveaways at the event like tickets to concerts at Magic City Casino. Beer is sold at this event and parking is plentiful. Come out, the chances are great you’ll have an amazing time. There are always amazing Food Trucks on hand to satisfy all your hankerings. 

The Details:

Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Truck Festival at Magic City Casino

Facebook: Wheelin’ Dealin’ Event Page

Date: Every 3rd Saturday of the Month Time: 5PM – 10PM

Location: 450 NW 37th Ave Miami, Florida 33126

Parking: Plenty of Free Parking

National Bacon Day Specials in Miami

This Saturday is National Bacon Day!! We have included some great spots to celebrate America’s most drooled over meat.

Swine Southern Table & Bar: In celebration of National Bacon Day, Swine will be offering a Bacon Bloody Mary as part of its bottomless beverage program ($19.99) during its extended brunch offerings for Labor Day (Saturday through Monday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). In addition, guests can enjoy the signature Swine Old Fashioned ($15) made with bacon washed Old Overholt rye, maple syrup and house-made Swine bitters; as well as the hearty Country Fried Bacon & Waffle ($22), thick cut, house smoked country-fried bacon with a cheddar cheese waffle, chilled spiced watermelon, honey hot sauce and bourbon maple syrup. Swine is located in Coral Gables at 2415 Ponce De Leon Blvd. Telephone: (786) 360-6433; www.runpigrun.com.

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BLT Prime: Celebrate National Bacon Day at the iconic Trump National Doral® with BLT Prime’s Grilled Bacon ($10), Nueskes double cut bacon with parsley, garlic and sherry vinaigrette. BLT Prime is located at Trump National Doral Miami®, 4400 NW 87th Avenue. Telephone: (305)591-6606; www.bltprimemiami.com. 

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar: Enjoy Chef Miguel Aguilar’s signature Medool Dates ($11) wrapped in bacon with almonds and topped with baby arugula and citrus vinaigrette.Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is located at 2550 N.W. 2nd Avenue. Ample street parking and valet available. Visit www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com and www.facebook.com/wynwoodkitchenandbar for more information.

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Labor Day Brunch: Yardbird Southern Table & Bar and Swine Southern Table & Bar will be extending their brunch specials to Monday in celebration of Labor Day. Yardbird’s brunch hours will be 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; brunch at Swine will be served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Photos by Hedonist Shedonist

Win 2 Tickets to Tastemakers Rock Roll and Stroll

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Tastemakers at Mizner Park presents “Rock, Roll and Stroll,” a fabulous progressive food and cocktail tasting featuring many of center’s restaurants and live rock music, on Wednesday, September 17 from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Mizner Park in Boca Raton. “We are very excited about this year’s new ‘rock & roll’ theme with two live bands playing throughout the evening and are pleased to partner with the City of Boca Raton,” said Barbara Finn, marketing manager for Mizner Park.  “This event has been so successful in years past we extended it into the Mizner Park Amphitheater to include a separate craft beer tasting and additional entertainment.” The Mizner Park Amphitheater will be host to craft beer tastings from the Florida Beer Company, Gold Coast Distributors, Harpoon Brewery, and the New Belgium Brewery, and music by rock band, Amp’d.

Tickets, available at www.miznerpark.com starting August 1, are $30 per person and include one tasting and select beverage at each participating restaurant with presentation of the VIP Ticket Book.  Tickets may also be purchased at each participating restaurant.  In addition, the ticket booklets will include re-usable exclusive offerings from various Mizner Park eateries valid August 1 through October 31, 2014.

This is the full menu:

  • Dubliner – Shepherd’s Pie with Guinness Mac & Cheese and Irish soda bread, paired with a special “Black Velvet,” combination of Guinness and Cider.
  • JAZZIZ Nightlife – Beef Carpaccio with horseradish aioli, black truffle and homemade potato chips served with a Blood Orange Cilantro Margarita.
  • Kapow! – Banh Mi Vietnamese Baguette (slow-cooked pulled pork, buttery spicy aioli, cilantro, pickled carrots, daikon and jalapeno) with a Spicy Lover cocktail (Partida Reposado Tequila, cucumber, lime juice, tabasco green sauce, cilantro, and organic agave nectar)
  • Max’s Grille – Crispy Duck Spring Rolls with spicy vegetables, soba noodles, pickled cucumbers, and Asian dipping sauce served with a Strawberry Saketini made with Stoli Vanilla Vodka, Tyku Sake and fresh strawberries.
  • Racks – The A+A Roll made with hamachi, jalapeno, spicy tuna, crispy shallot, cilantro and avocado with Boca Lemonade, a refreshing mix of Stoli Vodka and Tyku Lemonade.
  • Ruth’s Chris – Mini Seared Ahi-Tuna complimented with Aspirated sauce with hints of mustard and beer, served with a Raspberry Rosemary Cosmo made with Absolut Raspberri, Cointreau, lime & cranberry juices, muddled raspberries and rosemary.
  • Tanzy – Housemade Ceder Plank Salmon with red pepper, lima bean, Israeli couscous and cucumber fennel salad paired with Prickly Pear Sour Sop Margarita mixed with cactus fruit, Florida Guanabana, hand-squeezed lime, El Jimador Tequila Reposado.
  • Truluck’s – Fresh Seasonal Crab Claws served with Lagaria pinot grigio
  • Uncle Julio’s – Pineapple Bacon Guacamole & crumbled queso fresco paired with the popular Julio’s Gold, Uncle Julio’s special hand-shaken margarita.
  • Villagio – Eggplant Rollatini – braised eggplant stuffed with seasoned ricotta cheese with marinara, parmesan, and melted mozzarella; and the Acai Thini, a blend of Acai Vodka with Cointreau, sour mix and a touch of Blue Curacao.
  • Yard House – Ahi Poke Bowl – marinated raw Ahi and avocado with carrots, Daikon radish, macadamia nuts and wontons served with Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat Beer.

Good Luck to all Entrants!

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H2ombre is an Epic Experience

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H2ombre is a groundbreaking and exhilarating show that intertwines EDM, acrobatics, creative graphics, street art and good ole fashioned water into quite a majestic feast for the eyes. The performers are determined to whip the crowd up into a frenzy and unleash a boisterous, soaking wet dance party. We do not want to spoil the show so we shall keep our review short, but there are spoiler pics and videos below. If you can’t help yourself, feel free to click away.

We would recommend getting nice and “influenced” before you go to amplify your experience. H2ombre is only an hour long, but well worth the price of admission. We urge you purchase the front “seats” in the immersive stage area and wear attire that embraces the water and allows you to fully participate. You most likely will get soaked if you get close to either stages, but that is part of the fun! After the show there is an ample lounge/club/bar area to keep the party going. The herb infused alcoholic slushies were quite tasty. This show only runs through August,  so make sure you do not miss it. It is a sensationally fun and creative date idea too.

Digest Miami hosts Private Belgian Beer Dinner at BE Bistro

Bistro BE, Brickell’s exciting new authentic Belgian restaurant, made its highly anticipated debut. The chic and sophisticated eatery aims to enchant Miami palates with a lively food and drink scene, featuring an expansive menu of Belgian delights and extensive beer list, with upwards of 70 different selections!

Working in tandem with restaurant owners Emmanuel Verschueren and Tim Michels, executive chef Frederik Appelt oversees the menu, which showcases the sophisticated French technique and bold flavors Belgian cuisine is known for. A newcomer to Miami, the Belgian-born chef is no stranger to the kitchen. Appelt previously served as executive chef at some of Belgium’s most esteemed restaurants, including Bistro Kosmopole, one of the most visited restaurants in Leuven, as well as Gastropub de Molen, widely recognized during Appelt’s tenure as one of the country’s best restaurant’s offering classic Belgian fare.

Digest Miami hosted a private Belgian Beer Dinner at the newly opened Bistro BE in Brickell with Stella Artois and flew in Master Beer Sommelier Marc Stroobandt to curate this special multi-course, beer paired dinner. Stroobandt travels the world inspiring and educating people. He has a profound knowledge of his subject and enduring relationships with both beer producers & the hospitality industry. He is a leading authority in the art and science of food and beer pairing and has created a number of programs to bring that knowledge to others.

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The evening began with a welcome reception featuring small bites and a cheese tasting, followed by a demonstration of the 9-step Stella Artois Pouring Ritual and seated dinner.

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Stella Artois cider a delicious gluten-free beer made with hand-picked American apples grown wine growing regions and other secrets ingredient. Pro-Tip: A a bit of orange juice and it tastes just like apple pie.

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Hoegaarden is a goes well with Indian and Thai Food.  Pro Tip: Serve it in Champagne glasses and no one will know the difference.

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Leffe pronounced leff or leffe. It’s an abbey beer. The more you drink, the more you drink in youth. Pro Tip: Leffe blond is great to have waffles in the afternoon or with dessert.

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Beer Pro Tip: Some beers taste good, but don’t smell nice. When this is the case, use a straight glass.  If it smells good, use a fancy glass.

We also took part in the super cute “I drink to your face” ritual,  crossing hands to touch glasses to each others’ cheeks.

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With beer culture so closely tied to Belgian culture, the beer menu boasts a staggering list of rare Belgian brews, as well as recognizable brands. There are more than 70 different selections available by the bottle and eight on tap. Servers are also trained in beer etiquette, from pouring technique down to the proper glassware. Central to the design of the dining room is a wall display behind the bar showcasing glassware for each of the beers served. Guests will also find a comprehensive list of well-priced wines by the glass or bottle to complement their meal.

Bistro BE brings guests as close to Belgium as one can get without a passport. The sleek, contemporary décor is reminiscent of a modern Belgian bistro with blond wood, white furnishings and modernist lighting. The 1,970 square-foot restaurant seats approximately 110, including communal chef’s tables positioned adjacent to the airy open kitchen, a spacious bar and covered patio.

Bistro BE is open daily for lunch and dinner, 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Brunch will launch at a later date. Located on the north side of the Axis Building at 1111 SW 1st Avenue in downtown Miami. Street and municipal parking available. Telephone: (305) 375-0975; www.BistroBE.com.

Photos of the Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

The 22nd Annual International Mango Festival was a succulent celebration this year. The mangos of Colombia were honored and the abundant harvest could be tasted all over the park.  The festival transpired over two days and included an exquisite mango inspired brunch, yoga, children activities, lectures, cooking demonstrations, beer and wine tasting among many more events. The Edward mango, one of Miami’s sweetest and sexiest was voted as the fan favorite in the Mango Tasting Room. At the Mango Auction, Thailand’s Nam Doc Mai, one of Asia’s most sought after mangos, fetched the highest bid. In addition to the mangos, it was serene to wander through the rainforest and experience the Butterfly Conservatory. We will definitely be back next year for the 23rd installment.

Taste of the Nation South Florida Captivates

Taste of the Nation South Florida Review & Photos

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Photographs by Paula Echevarria

South Florida (the non-confederate flag waving part of our paradise state) has been elevated into a serious “Foodie” region. While we are still anxiously awaiting our first Michelin Star, we do possess exquisite food, sexy chefs and a deeply diverse restaurant scene with an eclectic compilation of stellar dishes.

If you were unfamiliar with how fantastic our restaurants truly are then Taste of the Nation South Florida was the event to acquaint yourself with Miami’s finest. Almost 700  gastronomes showed up for this exquisite event held at the Loews Hotel. The lavish bash raised funds for Share Our Strength, an organization that aims to end childhood hunger in America. The irony of us stuffing our gluttonous faces to end hunger was not lost on us, but the event did raise almost $100K!!! With the exception of the renowned South Beach Wine and Food Fest, Taste of the Nation is the apex of culinary events in South Florida. Continue reading “Taste of the Nation South Florida Captivates”

Planet Kitchen Food and Wellness Tour

Planet Kitchen celebrated its maiden voyage of its Planet Kitchen Healthy Organic Food, Drink and Wellness Tour, highlighting a growing trend towards healthy and sustainable living in South Florida. It also showcased local farms, markets, restaurants and businesses who make real food and drinks to heal us naturally from the inside out. 

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We started our tour at Trio Studio, located in between Wynwood & the Design District (Midtown) in Miami. There we had a wonderful grounding meditation to start our journey followed by  an awesome demonstration of Budokon Yoga, AcroYoga, and Aerial Yoga.   Tour participants had an opportunity to get in on the action and try out AcroYoga for themselves.  It was really beautiful to participate and watch.

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Afterwards, the folks at Sambazon shared a refreshing fruit, mint and frozen acai concoction called an “acai bowl.”  This superfood charged treat is also non-GMO, Fair Trade and b-certified. We enjoyed it so much, we purchased a bottle that same week.  I’m sure it will be a permanent part of our refrigerator as we support conscious companies and healthy nutrition.  Continue reading “Planet Kitchen Food and Wellness Tour”

Toro Toro Miami Review

Toro Toro is an Exquisite Experience

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You only get one chance to make a first impression and Toro Toro at the Intercontinental Hotel floored us in all respects.  We were joined by Maria the Foodaholic for a remarkable dining experience at this stunning locale. She co-authored this review with us.

From the moment we stepped into the lobby, we were taken aback by the gorgeous beige marble décor lining the walls, and the captivating neon lights around vivid color changing screens. The gargantuan marble sculpture in the middle of the lobby conveyed a sense of historic grandeur balanced against the modern Miami flashing neon screens connecting the second and third floors. It was truly a seductive entryway to an amazing, yet under-the-radar restaurant.

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The resplendent allure continued with dark brick wooden tables inside Toro Toro and the beautiful supple oak colored leather booths. Rustic lanterns hung from the ceiling contrasting majestically against the red candles on the table. An artistic tree branch hung from the ceiling, seemingly crowning the robust red and white flowers below, adding vibrancy to the unique décor. Continue reading “Toro Toro Miami Review”

Summer Dining Series at Wynwood Kitchen and Bar

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Wynwood Kitchen and Bar has launched a European summer tasting menu. We swung by to try the Spanish menu last month. Currently, they are serving German dishes, and will serve Portugal treats in August.

The Duck Prosciutto was a brand new flavor for us.  When the salty, bacon like duck meat was combined with the San Simon and Tetilla cheese and the crunchy toast it was delightful. The Quince paste jam (similar to guava) tied everything together splendidly. The sweet sauce was a nice contrast to the savory duck and cheeses.

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The Stuffed Piquillo Peppers were a tasty beautiful plate.  It was comprised of crabmeat, Manchego cheese with a aji amarillo sauce.The Manchego melded with the crab giving it a creamy consistency. The aji amarillo sauce had some heat, so don’t douse the pepper in it if you are spice adverse. Continue reading “Summer Dining Series at Wynwood Kitchen and Bar”

Meat Market Summer Wine Dinner Series 2014

The Series Kicks Off with a Spanish Wine Dinner – Tuesday July 15th

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Meat Market, Miami Beach’s sizzling hot steakhouse is bringing back their popular Summer Wine Dinner Series.  Organized by sommelier Allison de Leo and acclaimed chef/co-owner Sean Brasel, the series kicks off on Tuesday, July 15th at 7:30 p.m.  For the dinner, de Leo pairs Brasel’s bold, contemporary American cuisine with some of Miami-based Hidalgo Imports’ award-winning Spanish wines.  The four-course dinner menu and correlating wines, priced at $95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity follows:

 

SELECTION OF PASSED HORS D’OEUVRES

Cava Agustí Torelló Mata Brut Reserva 2009

 First Course

SMOKED HAMACHI CARPACCIO WITH LEMON-CAPER AOLI & BASIL PESTO

Cune Monopole Viura 2013

 Second Course

GRILLED SALMON WITH TRUFFLE-WILD MUSHROOM PUREE,
CAULIFLOWER GRATIN AND PEA TENDRIL SALAD

Viña Real Crianza 2009

 Third Course

SOUS VIDE LAMB CHEEKS IN PLUM-RED WINE GLAZE, TRUFFLE VINAIGRETTE

&

CRISPY DUCK BREAST WITH BACON IN PORT SAUCE,

SWEET POTATO MANGO TATER TOTS

Cune Imperial Reserva 2007

and

Cune Imperial Gran Reserva 2004 (Ranked #1 by Wine Spectator Magazine 2013)

 Fourth Course

DUO OF PANNA COTTA WITH MOLTEN CHOCOLATE CAKE AND

PISTACHIO WHITE CHOCOLATE CHIP BARK

   Bodegas Hidalgo Pedro Ximénez Triana

 

Meat Market is located at 915 Lincoln Road on South Beach.  Reservations for the wine dinner are limited and can be made by calling (305) 532-0088. www.meatmarketmiami.com

Miami Beach Taqueria Celebrates One Year Anniversary With New Happy Hour

Huahua’s Happy Hour Specials to Launch Tuesday, July 1

 Nachos photo credit - Jipsy

Huahua’s Taqueria, the laid-back Mexican eatery from the guys at HaVen Hospitality Concepts, will celebrate its one year anniversary by launching a new Happy Hour on July 1, 2014. The playful taqueria will be offering an array ofdelicioso food & drink specials Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.Drink specials include $3 beers from Huahuas’ list of authentic Mexican cervezas such as Corona, Dos Equis, Negra Modelo, Victoria and Pacifico; $4 house-made margaritas featuring a rotation of seasonal fruit flavors; and $1 off nachos with all the fixings – choice of meat (citrus chicken, pork green chili or carne asada), queso blanco, Mexican cheeses, refried black beans, sour cream,  tomato, onion, pickled jalapeño and cilantro. For an extra kick, top it all off with one of Chef Todd Erickson’s own signature hot sauces.

Those looking to satisfy late-night cravings can rejoice with Midnight Munchies – a continuation of Happy Hour specials on Friday and Saturday evenings from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m.

Huahua’s Taqueria, located at 1211 Lincoln Road, is open for lunch and dinner daily; Sunday – Thursday, noon – 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday noon – 4 a.m.   Telephone: (305) 534-TACO (8226); www.HuahuasTaco.com. Ample street parking is available.

Follow Huahua’s at: www.facebook.com/HuaHuasTaco; Twitter/Instagram: @HuaHuasTaco

 

About HaVen Hospitality Concepts

HaVen Hospitality Concepts is a group dedicated to developing innovative business opportunities with cutting edge digital technology applications and the best food, drinks and culinary arts. In addition to Huahua’s, HHC also operates HaVen South Beach, which opened at 1237 Lincoln Road in May 2011. Now in its third year, HaVen now features a new design and menu with custom hydraulic matte tables and a menu of more than 20 new dishes. The team is developing additional locations for both Huahua’s Taqueria and HaVen South Beach.

Celebrate The Fourth Of July At South Florida’s Top Restaurants

Here is a list of some of the best spots to eat on the Fourth of July:

Earls Kitchen + Bar will be offering a special Stars & Stripe cocktail on Independence Day for $4.50. In addition, guests can enjoy weekly features offered every Friday including double mojitos for $7, $1 off Stella pints and $2 off glasses of champagne. Earls is located at 7535 North Kendall Drive in Dadeland Mall. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner daily beginning at 11:30 a.m. and brunch on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ample parking and valet is available. Telephone: (305) 667-1786; www.earlsrestaurants.com.

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The Dutch will get festive for the 4th early this year with an All-American Cookout on Wednesday, July 2nd, from 7p.m. – close.  Part of the wildly-popular Bourbon, Beer & ‘Cue series, Chef de Cuisine Conor Hanlon and guest chef Jamie DeRosa of Tongue & Cheek will serve up an outdoor BBQ at Grove at W, complete with summertime games.  Priced at $40 per person (excluding beverages, taxes and gratuity), the family-style feast will feature Apple-Brined Smoked BBQ Chicken; Smoked & Barbecued Mackerel Sandwich with Bread & Butter Beet Slaw; and Texas-Style Smoked Beef Brisket with Slathering Sauce, Smoked Garlic Sausage, Texas Toast & Baked Pinto Beans. Drink specials include $2 PBR Tall Boys; $3 Tecates fully dressed with BBQ rub and citrus; $9 Specialty Bourbon Cocktails; and $40 Summer Punch Bowls. The event will take place at Grove, The Dutch’s backyard, inside W South Beach, 2201 Collins Avenue.  Tickets can be purchased at http://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-dutch-2913104985

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is celebrating Independence Day with a festive backyard BBQ on the lawn of the restaurant from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy a menu of classic American favorites with a twist, crafted by Executive Chef Miguel Aguilar, including a chorizo beef burger on a brioche bun; Ball Park hot dogs loaded with Cotija cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, chipotle aioli, pickled jalapeno and shoe string potatoes; and criollo marinated chicken breast. Hearty side dishes will include the chef’s popular devilish eggs, chipotle coleslaw and potato salad. Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is located at 2550 N.W. 2nd Avenue. Ample street parking and valet available. Visit www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com and www.facebook.com/wynwoodkitchenandbarfor more information.

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar is celebrating Independence Day and National Fried Chicken Day (Sunday, July 6, 2014), with an exclusive lunch and brunch special, Friday, July 4 through Friday, July 11, 2014. For a limited time, guests can enjoy a twist on the classic Blue Plate Special ($14), two pieces of Lewellyn’s fine fried chicken with a blend of hot spices, served with citrus pepper watermelon and house-made buttermilk biscuits. Perfect to help cool down from the chicken’s fiery bite is Yardbird’s signature Watermelon Sling ($13), a refreshing blend of Troy & Sons platinum white whiskey, fresh pressed watermelon juice and lemon balanced with rosemary and Aperol. Yardbird is located on Miami Beach at 1600 Lenox Ave. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily with weekend brunch on Saturday and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Telephone: (305) 538-5220; www.runchickenrun.com. Reservations strongly suggested.

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Khong River House,the popular 50 Eggs concept that offers an authentic yet approachable menu, rich with bold Southeast Asian flavors, is offering for a limited time only a lunch dish in celebration of the Fourth of July and National Fried Chicken Day, Friday, July 4 through Friday, July 11, 2014. Guests can enjoy Khong Fried Chicken ($19), half a chicken with honey-lime marinade served with spicy mango slaw and caramel fish sauce. Khong River House is located on Miami Beach at 1661 Meridian Avenue. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, with brunch launching July 2014. Telephone: (305) 763-8147; www.khongriver.com.

Swine Southern Table & Bar,on Fourth of July, Coral Gables’ go to place for southern comfort will be serving up a half rack of ribs ($26) with their signature competition rub, cider vinegar mop and homemade pickles for the holiday. Swine is located in Coral Gables at 2415 Ponce De Leon Blvd. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, with weekend brunch on Saturday and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Telephone: (786) 360-6433; www.runpigrun.com.

 Swine Half Rack of Ribs

Lure Fishbar, Miami Beach’s seafood hotspot is celebrating Independence Day with succulent food specials including Steamed Shrimp ($15.50)with charred lemon; Grilled Lobster ($24) with chili-garlic butter, grilled corn and fingerling potatoes; Baby Back Ribs (half rack $26, full rack $35) with pomegranate BBQ sauce, watermelon, grilled corn and oven roasted potatoes. Guests can enjoy a twist to the traditional holiday dessert with Apple Pie Empanadas ($11), served four to an order with Granny Smith apples, caramel and maple whipped cream. Lure Fishbar is located in the historic St. Moritz Hotel building at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel at 1600 Collins Avenue. The restaurant is open for dinner nightly at 6 p.m. Valet parking is available. Telephone: (305) 695-4550; www.lurefishbar.com

BLT Prime, located at the iconic Trump National Doral®, will show its patriotism with a Fourth of July Blackboard special menu that evening. The three course prix fixe menu, priced at $60 per person (excluding taxes and gratuity), will feature two appetizer choices of either Burrata & Heirloom Tomato Salad with basil and white balsamic; or Watermelon Salad with fresh feta, pea sprouts and pickled radish. Main course options include Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop with charred peach relish and grain mustard jus; or Scottish Salmon with crushed peas and a citrus emulsion; while side dishes include BBQ Corn with bacon and chives; or Fingerling Potato Salad with truffle aioli. Delicious dessert selections for Independence Day include Red Velvet -Tres Leches with strawberry and cocoa nib; or Chocolaté Crème Brulée with crisp nougatine and berries. Regular dining menu also available. BLT Prime is located at Trump National Doral Miami®, 4400 NW 87th Avenue. Telephone: (305)591-6606; www.bltprimemiami.com.

The Hotel of South Beach welcomes everyone to celebrate Independence Day with a festive rooftop BBQ with a live DJ, from 7 PM – 11 PM. Guests can enjoy BBQ and cocktails poolside, with a spectacular view of fireworks starting at 9 PM. The Hotel of South Beach is an Art Deco hotel where high style meets history, luxurious accommodations, and AAA Four Diamond award-winning hospitality. The Hotel of South Beach is located on 801 Collins Avenue. Telephone: (305)531-2222; http://www.thehotelofsouthbeach.com.

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar Kicks Off July With A Taste Of Germany

Popular Monthly Culinary Showcase Continues With Germany

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Wynwood Kitchen & Bar (WKB)’s popular summer dining series continues its celebration of cuisine from around the world in July with a tribute to World Cup contenders, Germany. The three-month long series crafted by Executive Chef Miguel Aguilar has added to the flavors of WKB’s already robust menu by showcasing dishes from Spain in June, and concludes with Portugal in August.

The summer tasting menu will be available for a limited time only during lunch and dinner every Wednesday throughout July beginning on Wednesday, July 3rd. Foodies can embark on a culinary tour through Germany with a la carte dishes to include:

Bratwurst ($12)

Served on a pretzel bun, topped with sauerkraut  

Spätzle ($15)

Egg noodles with shredded Coca-Cola braised short rib

Rouladen ($14)

Bacon, onions and pickles, wrapped in thin slices of flank steak served with potato salad

Radler ($10)

German beer with lemonade

 

In addition to the German delicacies, diners can indulge on Chef Aguilar’s regular a la carte menu of Global-Latino small plates, meant to mix and match, as well as creative craft cocktails.

The German summer tasting menu will be available for lunch and dinner  every Wednesday  throughout July (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st). Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is located at 2550 N.W. 2nd Avenue. Ample street parking and valet available.

Visit www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com and www.facebook.com/wynwoodkitchenandbar for more information.

A Stay in a Historic Castle in San Gimignano, Italy

Feel the Ancient Castle Energy

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San Gimignano (or Sangiin local parlance) is an ancient walled city with impressive Game of Thrones like towers spanning up to the heavens. The town is located atop a mountain overlooking a 360 degree view of serene picturesque landscapes, which amplifies its gravitas and sheer elegance. Although most of the original 72 towers have not withstood the test of time, the city is still very much intact and a handful of towers still reign over the city in a majestic regal fashion.

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We stumbled upon this castle online and were instantly drawn to it. Since we were travelling to a fable-like city, we felt compelled to stay at a castle that is over 1,000 years old. One of our favorite facets of Europe is the venerable spirit that permeates throughout the historic cities. One can intensely feel the energy of a city and the structures that have absorbed so much history over thousands of years. We thought a castle of this timeworn magnitude would be cool, unique and overflowing with these vibes. Continue reading “A Stay in a Historic Castle in San Gimignano, Italy”

Amigos For Kids Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night

Celebrity Domino Night Sizzles

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Celebrity Domino Night was a sensational party that had the guests eating, drinking, playing and dancing the night away. Almost 2,000 guests partied to support an amazing charitable cause on June 14th at Jungle Island. Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night is an annual fundraising celebration that supports Amigos For Kids, a benevolent charity that helps children who are abused and neglected. The event was filled with Latin heart throbs and sexy Novella stars, heaps of great food and an open bar sponsored by Bacardí USA.  Willy Chirino a Salsa Grammy winning musician performed and was followed by one of our favorite’s DJ Irie who lit up the room.

It was a joyous event with intense domino matches, a stellar silent auction and seductive salsa and regular dancing. Our favorite bites was the incredible aged steak from Shula’s Steakhouse, the delectable alfajores from Catalina’s Bake Shop and the magnificent Cuban buffet spread from the famous Versailles Restaurant. There were also a plethora of celebrities in attendance which included 1996 Miss Universe Alicia Machado, Maripily Rivera, Carolina Tejera, Louis Aguirre, Jackie Nespral and Laura Flores. We had an amazing time and can not wait for next year.

Love is Blind, Coral Gables Review

Love at First Sight

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When you enter Love is Blind you are going to be dazzled by the sheer coolness and ingenuity of the restaurant. It boasts a funky motif that successfully intertwines ancient art with a trendy, funky and sexy vibe. In case you are tripping out (ref: Forgetting Sara Marshall Clip), there are smooth furry walls, blowup octopus like chandeliers, head bust sculptures with papal crowns and mounted bull skulls proclaiming pearls of wisdom such as “All you need is love.” It is one of the most fun, tricked out restaurant decors we have ever encountered.

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Love is Blind is the latest addition from the Passion Restaurant Group. They also own the very popular Crazy about You, as well as Dolores but you can call me Lolita. The owner Carlos, who opened up his first restaurant in Madrid at the ambitious age of 25, explained his “cheap is chic” concept. He believes patrons should be able to experience quality cuisine in a gorgeous setting with excellent service at very affordable prices. Continue reading “Love is Blind, Coral Gables Review”

Whole Foods Summer Wines Tweetup

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Sizzling summer sips in red, white and bubbles have arrived at Whole Foods Market®

Taste and tweet on June 26

 

As temperatures soar and rhythms slow, Whole Foods Market raises a glass to its crisp, playful, delicious Top 10 Summer Wines that are perfect for poolside frolicking or sharing under a blanket of stars on a warm summer night.

Whole Foods Market’s hand-selected summer wines take shoppers on a tasty trip through some of the most prolific wine regions of the world with nothing but a wine glass in hand and a lasting finish as a souvenir. Wine lovers can sip and savor the balanced white peach and thyme flavors of a Spanish verdejo or adventure to the Rhône River Valley with a red whose aromatic black fruit and spicy bouquet pairs perfectly with blue cheese burgers on the grill.

“It is summertime, and Whole Foods Market is making the living a whole lot easier with our line-up of wines that make for a great time without breaking the bank,” said Doug Bell, global beverage buyer for Whole Foods Market. “There is something for every person and occasion – whether it’s paired with shellfish for beach picnic or mixed into sangria for a backyard barbecue.”

Whole Foods Market invites wine enthusiasts 21 and older to discuss these and other favorite summer wines at the next Twitter Tastings on June 26. Go towholefoodsmarket.com/wine for more information and use the hashtag #WFMwine to follow the conversation. The online tasting schedule is:

 Thursday, June 26, 8-9 p.m. EST:

  • Frey Agriculturist Organic Blanc, California
  • Les Hauts de Bel Air Sauvignon Blanc, France
  • Querciabella Mongrana, Italy
  • Santa Rita Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile

The company’s Top 12 Summer Wines include:

Innovac!ón Chenin-Chardonnay, Argentina – With aromas of white flowers, apple and papaya, the flavors move from Bosc pear to applesauce and spice. The finish is clean and well-balanced.

Frey Agriculturist Organic Blanc, California – This white blend from Frey Vineyards, the first certified organic winery in the U.S., has tropical fruit flavors with a note of sweet grass and whisper of riesling and orange blossom on the finish.

El Perro Verde Rueda, Spain – With a bouquet of grapefruit on the nose, white peach, thyme and subtle savory notes move to a long finish that is nicely balanced between tanginess and fruit.

Les Hauts de Bel Air Sauvignon Blanc, France –

This Entre-Deux-Mers Bordeaux blanc is made by the Sichel family and has aromas of grapefruit zest, rosemary then green pepper and delicate yellow peach and citrus flavors that lead to a balanced mineral-tinged finish.

Louis Latour Grand Ardèche Chardonnay, France – In the bouquet, there is toasty oak, fresh green apple and pear, and there is a depth of richness and balance in the smooth, ripe finish.

Soleil des Garrigues Ventoux, France – With black fruit, spices and sweet cherry on the nose, this red blend has minerality and sweet anise flavors with soft tannins gently rounding out the finish.

Montevina Barbera, California – This juicy, easy drinking red is a terrific food wine. With fresh acid and low tannins, it displays aromas of cherry and Amador spice and flavors of dark cherry and toasty oak.

Sanford Flor de Campo Pinot Noir, California – An initial burst of bright red raspberries and bing cherries moves to hints of cola, black pepper and earthiness. Toasty oak influences the balanced, medium finish.

Querciabella Mongrana, Italy –From the largest area of certified organic-grape-growing land in Italy, this red blend has a complexity of dark fruit and sweet anise. A lovely, rich butteriness backs up notes of sour cherry and cocoa.

Santa Rita Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile – This Maipo Valley red has forward herbal notes of green parsley mixed with aromas of ripe black fruit. Food friendly and well-balanced, intense flavors of black pepper and ripe plum deepen the lingering finish.

Mas Picosa Capçanes Monstant 2013, Spain – This Priorat red has spice cake and candied dark berry aromas and a jammy fruit counterpointed by a zesty minerality. The long finish is rounded out by soft tannins.

Deccolio Prosecco, Italy – This perfect bellini sparkler has lemon-lime, tangerine, tropical fruit and honey on the nose. With fruit-forward flavors of orange peel, peach and apricot, this refreshing wine is medium-bodied on the palate.

World Cup Kickoff Weekend at Haven

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Haven Lounge will kick off World Cup festivities, this Saturday, June 14 by hosting a Rio de Janeiro themed Destination Saturdays complete with specials including Green & Yellow Roll (Brazil Roll): Hamachi + Cucumber + Pickled Daikon + Yuzu Tobiko + Jalapeño Masago + Wasabi Kewpie ($11); World Cup Burger: prime beef + chimichurri + gruyere + onion rings + fried quail egg ($12) and Tater Tots: balsamic catsup + Maytag bleu cheese ($8). $200 Avion Bottles & $10 Cocktails will also be available. 

Tater Tots_ Photo Credit - Jipsy

Haven Unveils New Full Menu

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Miami Beach Foodie Hot Spot Introduces Tantalizing New Menu & Design

Tater Tots_ Photo Credit - Jipsy

 

Earning a three-star rating by The Miami Herald in its first year and a nod as “Best Gastropub” by the Miami New Times in 2012, HaVen has remained a locals favorite, a tried n’ true destination for fabulous food and drinks served in a unique setting equal parts ultra-lounge and high-tech watering hole. Now in its third year, HaVen is taking a fabulous step forward with a new design and menu concept sure to please foodies and the cocktail-set alike. “We’re thrilled with our success at HaVen but are continuously thinking of new ways to bring something special to our concept,” says Mike Boles, co-owner of HaVen Hospitality Concepts (HHC), which owns/operates HaVen and its spicy sister restaurant, Huahua’s Taqueria. “The new design elements definitely take the HaVen experience a step further and Chef’s new menu is killer.  We’re excited to share it.”

Chef is executive chef Todd Erickson, one of the region’s most celebrated toques.  Named Eater Miami’s “Hottest Chef” in 2012, Erickson is known for his flavorful cuisine and irresistible Southern charm.  To help celebrate HaVen’s 3rd birthday, Erickson is rolling out a diverse, globally-inspired new menu displaying impeccable attention to detail, masterly technique and the bold, often playful, flavors he’s known for. “The concept for HaVen hasn’t changed,” Erickson says.  “Many of the 21 new dishes are small plates, which HaVen is known for, but the majority is composed dishes perfect for those looking for a more ‘traditional’ dining experience.  Which goes hand-in-hand with the new design elements.”

In addition to the late-night lounge experience that guests have come to love, HaVen is and has always been a full service restaurant. To help evoke a more traditional setting in the earlier hours, Boles, known for his artistic vision and passion for design, has created custom hydraulic matte tables that raise and extend with folding leafs, a departure from the low-slung cocktail-style tables HaVen has sported since it opened.  The tables have the ability to lower to lounge height with the flip of a lever so as the evening progresses and the vibe changes into a late-night scene, the tables transform.  Invention in all things is a HaVen trademark and is easily found in Erickson’s new menu.

Inspired by his Southern roots and passion for using locally sourced, fresh ingredients, it runs the gamut, offering a wide array of dishes stunningly executed options.  Herbivores will be thrilled with HaVen’s new X-TRA section featuring Cool Ranch Edamame ($6); Little Devils – chef’s weekly deviled eggs ($8); Black Garlic and Chive Drop Biscuits with pink peppered goat cheese butter ($7) and decadent Cauli-polonaise – roasted whole cauliflower topped with a fried egg, parsley, rye and black truffle butter ($11). Guests can choose from tantalizing seafood selections such as the luscious Macadamia Lobster served with sweet pickled chilies and smooth avocado butter ($36);

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Bangkok Tiger Shrimp – carrot, mint, basil, cilantro, nuac cham and peanut ($14) or opt for meat options including Proper Sausage made with harissa-infused lamb and served on brioche, topped with French feta and minted sweet pea ($15); Country Fried Quail with Peruvian potato, blackstrap molasses and mustard seed “caviar” ($17); and an array of “boutique” Burgers including Erickson’s take on Korean BBQ –  Galbi – made with Korean BBQ Short rib, lotus pickle, scallion and Asian pear ($11).

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A number of not to be missed HaVen signature favorites remain, including the Duck Duck Quail – duck burger, foie gras butter, quail egg and shallot-parsley salad ($14); and various sushi rolls, from Everything – sockeye, cream cheese, chive, bagel, sesame, garlic, poppy ($13) to Crackle Pop – spicy tuna, seared and crisp rice, daikon, yuzu-shichime aioli ($15).

New Sweets, including the Cobbler – local fruits with macadamia cookie crumble and vanilla ice cream ($9); Dirty Blondie – molten chocolate chip “cookie” with vanilla ice cream and liquid ganache ($9); and Panna Cotta – cuatro leches with vanilla cake and local fruits ($9), offer the perfect sweet finish to an evening.

Of course, HaVen’s iconic libations are a must for sipping on during dinner as well as late-night. Guests can choose from a list of cocktails including the newhaVen mule – Nolet’s Gin and Fever-Tree Ginger Beer with fresh lime ($15); as well as staples such as eleVate – Maestro Dobel tequila, cucumber and radish; feVer – Grey Goose poire, jalapeno, lychee and pear-Prosecco ($15); and the over-the-top take on a dirty martini, diVine – Stoli elite, caviar stuffed olives and filthy brine ($40).

HaVen is located on the corner of Lincoln and West at 1237 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach. Dinner is served nightly; 6 p.m. until 11 p.m.; 6 p.m. until midnight on Saturday and Sunday.  For reservations, please call (305) 987-8885 or email info@havenlounge.com.  For more information, please visitwww.havenlounge.com.  Ample street parking is available.

 

Follow Haven at: www.facebook.com/ havensouthbeach; on Twitter @HavenSouthBeach

Beer Pairing Dinner at Oak Tavern Featuring Wynwood Brewing Company

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Beer Pairing Dinner At Oak Tavern Featuring Wynwood Brewing Company

On Wednesday, June 18, 2014 Oak Tavern executive chef David Bracha teams up with Luis Brignoni of the Wynwood Brewing Company to create a perfectly paired family style craft beer dinner at the Communal Table.   The evening, priced at $50 per person, exclusive of tax & gratuity, includes five different beers to complement four courses and some pass around starters.  Menu follows:

 

To Start – Pass Around

Roasted oysters with bacon, cheddar, rosemary, honey, pickled fresnos

Smoked ricotta toast, Tavern cured duck proscuitto, truffle honey

Bacalao croquettes, spicy aioli

 La Rubia “American Blonde”

First Course

BTM Onion Soup with Tarentaise, crouton

 BTM Wheat American Wheat Pale Ale

Main Course – Family Style

A Cornucopia of Meats – “Caja China”

Pastrami seasoned lamb leg

Roasted goat with pimento

Barbequed Heritage Pork Shoulder

Braised Sea Island peas

Carolina heirloom gold rice

Creamed corn

 Magic City Pale Ale & Wynwood IPA

 

Dessert

Sea Salt & pretzel crusted dark chocolate truffles

 La Oscura Stout

 

Seating is limited and reservations are required.  Please call 786-391-1818; Oak Tavern is located at 35 NE 40th Street in Miami’s Design District.  Valet and metered parking are available.

The Hidden Kitchen Workshop 1st Anniversary Dinner

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The Hidden Kitchen Workshop 1ST Anniversary Dinner

Chef Michael B. Jacobs Teams up with Chef Conor Hanlon of The Dutch for a
Southern Seafood Bash, Wednesday, June 25th

 

Conceptualized and executed by Chef Michael B. Jacobs, The Hidden Kitchen Workshop is a unique underground dining series consisting of exclusive multi-course meals created and served by the Workshop’s honored guest chefs, along with Chef Jacobs. On Wednesday, June 25th, at 7:00 PM, Chef Jacobs will join forces with Chef de Cuisine Conor Hanlon of The Dutch for a one-night-only Southern Seafood Bash.

The family-style, multi-course dinner will be priced at $120 per person including alcohol, tax and gratuity.  The evening will begin and end with hors d’oeuvres and dessert prepared by The Hidden Kitchen, along with courses prepared by Hanlon.  Full menu below:

Hors D’oeuvres
New England Style “Mini” Lobsta Rolls
Florida Stone Crab “Croquettes”

Appetizers
Florida Smoked White Fish, Grilled Bread and Preserved Lemon
Florida Citrus Salad with Fried Oysters and Avocado

Mid-Course
Crawfish Etouffée with Carolina Gold Rice
Crispy Okeechobee Frog Legs, dusted in Homemade Creole Seasoning

Entrees & Sides
Fried Catfish, brined in Buttermilk with Homemade Hot Sauces
Frogmore Stew
Sautéed Okra
Sweet Corn Succotash
Creamy Grits

Dessert
Fruit Cobbler

Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance at http://www.strategichospitality.net/hidden-kitchen-workshop-tickets/.

The Hidden Kitchen Workshop takes place at The Hidden Kitchen café, located inside the Imperial House condominium at 5255 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. Guests enter through an unsuspecting back door staffed with a member of The Hidden Kitchen Workshop team who escorts diners to the dining room.

Conor Hanlon is Chef de Cuisine of The Dutch and Executive Chef of the W South Beach Hotel & Residences.  Adding a bit of homegrown local flavor to the Miami outpost of Andrew Carmellini’s roots-inspired American restaurant, Hanlon earned rave reviews from top media outlets including The Miami Herald, The New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler and Miami Magazine. Hanlon’s great success at The Dutch earned him a promotion in late 2013; the talented chef now oversees all resort food and beverage operations including banquet functions, in-room dining and overall food and beverage operations for the resort’s venues: WET bar & grill, Beach Cabanas, Living Room, The Dutch and Grove. Outside of the W South Beach, Hanlon has made his mark on Miami participating in foodie functions such as the Cochon 555 “Epic Pork Battle”, an annual competition where chefs create a dish using an entire pig. The talented chef also supports Slow Food Miami and Common Threads, two movements promoting sustainable food practices and nutrition education; The Dutch earned Slow Food Miami’s Snail of Approval Award in 2013.

Burger Brawl Review

Burger Brawl’s Best Burgers

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Burgers have experienced a glorified Renaissance period over the past decade. We are proud that Miami has been a staunch contributor to this deliriously delicious movement. This city has introduced Pincho Factory’s Toston Burger and Quesadilla Burger, Swine’s orgasmic Swine Burger and Eating House’s celestial Carbonara Burger. All these superb and unique creations are MUST-tries for legit burger aficionados and almost all were present at Burger Brawl.

The Miami ambassador and undisputed King of the burger scene is the Burger Beast. The Burger Beast is a sweet and affable blogger specializing in burgers and comfort food. He benevolently organized the first annual Burger Brawl at Magic City Casino where 20 of his favorite contenders grilled it out for burger supremacy. The event was sensational with unlimited tasty burgers, desserts, tater tots and liquor for only $50!!! It was the best dollar to foodgasm ratio we have ever witnessed at a food event. Continue reading “Burger Brawl Review”

Daddy Loves the Forge

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Father’s Day is around the corner  and in honor of Dad, The Forge is rolling out their Prime Rib Sundays on June 15th.  Here are the details:

 

WHAT: Prime Rib + Chef Lee “Popover” + Wine, Beer, or Cognac ($39)

WHEN: Sunday, June 15th

WHERE: 432 41st Street, Miami Beach, FL

Enjoy Daddies!!!!

Ostaria Boccadoro, Venice, Italy Review

Ostaria Boccadoro has the Best Seafood in Venice

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Strolling along the narrow sidewalks off the beaten tourist path, we were not sure if we were lost or just mesmerized by the color and novelty of this place. That is until we came across a quiet little square where we found Ostaria Boccadoro.

Do you know how you can gauge the freshness of a seafood restaurant? When, as you are having a drink (or in when in Italy, an aperitivo) the morning catch is dropped off at the restaurant for lunch.  The exquisite Ostaria Boccadoro, is located in the magical and unique city of Venice.  The name Boccadoro, translated as “golden mouth” from Italian (bocca d’oro), suits this place divinely.  The owner Chef Luciano Orlandi is profoundly charming and quite funny. The fanciful and refined restaurant specializes in offering the freshest seafood. Their menu is highly dependent on what’s available at the Rialto market. Even the napkins, made of fine linen, appeared freshly pressed. Our sweet, cool and sexy bartender/waiter/friend Luca made us amazing drinks upon arrival. Continue reading “Ostaria Boccadoro, Venice, Italy Review”

I Terzi di Siena Review

Enjoy Celestial Views at I Terzi di Siena

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Siena is a gorgeous city in the Tuscan region of Italy, rich with tradition, food and majestic landscapes and architecture. We spent an amazing two days and one night at I Terzi di Siena which is a beautiful place to really absorb the allure of Siena. I Terzi is conveniently located near Piazza di Campo (Campo Square), which is the center of town. A cool makeshift horse race is held in the Campo once a year. I Terzi is located in one of the tallest and oldest buildings in Siena and offers its guests breathtaking views of  the Sienese rooftops, Cathedral and magnificent sunsets.

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We had the pleasure of viewing a glorious sunset from the terrace while drinking wine and hanging out with a couple from Australia and another from Germany. From the terrace, one can admire the Torre del Mangia (Mangia Tower), the Siena Cathedral, the Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico (Church of San Domenico) or just gaze off and lose yourself in one of the best views in all of Siena. Continue reading “I Terzi di Siena Review”

L’osteria di Giovanni in Florence, Italy Review

L’osteria di Giovanni will Delight your Palates

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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L’osteria di Giovanni is an impressive, third generation family run restaurant in Florence. The food was outstanding, the service was marvelous and the ambiance was so refined and welcoming. It exuded a very trendy vibe with famous art adorning the walls.  It is a beautiful restaurant located just north over the Ponte alla Corraria Bridge on the north side of Florence.

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We had the pleasure of meeting Caterina, the sweet chef turned manager. When the restaurant manager is a chef you know that all plates out of the kitchen will be up to par. Matteo, who is also a musician, was our attentive waiter.  They got us off to a great start with a complimentary fried pasta starter that we likened to phenomenal salty elephant ears.

The Goose Breast Carpaccio was a savory epiphany. It was one of our favorite dishes in all of Italy. The smoked goose breast was doused with balsamic vinegar to create a heavenly taste. It was so intensely rich and scrumptious. The fatty thin sliced meat with the amazing smoky flavor and balsamic taste will blow you away. If it is not on the menu, ask for it anyway. Continue reading “L’osteria di Giovanni in Florence, Italy Review”

The Chianti and Truffle Tour in Florence, Italy

The Chianti and Truffle Tour is Sensational

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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The Chianti and Truffle Tour, run by the astute and charming Vittorio Del Bono Venezze, is one of the best tours we have ever been on.  He picks you up in Florence and takes you to San Miniato to experience truffle hunting, followed by a great truffle lunch and capped off by a visit to a marvelous boutique winemaker for a wine course and tasting.

Truffles are a gift from the heavens.  Just the thought of these magnificent mushrooms induces salivation in our truffle-addicted mouths. They are impossible to farm so they must be found in the wild. According to our hunter, ever year there are less truffle growing areas because they are contaminated by man. Once an area is ruined, it will not grow truffles again. The areas where truffles are found were such a secret, that even fathers would not tell their children until they were on their deathbeds.  We were driven to San Miniato, a tiny 1,000 hectares city renowned for its truffles, and introduced to a very experienced truffle hunter, his wife and their cute hunting dogs.

There are a variety of truffles that grow seasonally. The famous Winter White truffle grows only from October through December. It is the most expensive truffle and can sell for $3,000 a pound some years! The “cheaper” truffles are the summer black and spring white truffles that are much more affordable and still delectable.

Dogs are trained to hunt for a year and a half starting when they are puppies. These lucky puppies are given truffles in their milk. We wish our mothers had put truffles in our baby formula. While both male and female dogs can hunt, our guide claimed that females are superior.  According to our guide, the males tend to get too distracted with a different type of hunt…as in for a female partner.

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Once you find a spot that produces truffles, it will produce truffles again but you are never sure when they will spring up.  The hunter goes back to the same spots each time in the hopes of finding more.

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Our hunt was fun, informative and picturesque, so make sure to bring a camera. The hunter’s adorable dog named Nebia, is a hyperactive mixed breed with a prize-winning nose. She found a bunch of lil truffles during our hunt. A hunt only lasts for 3-4 hours(ours was under 2) because the dog’s nose gets desensitized after that period. Below you can see a video of Nebia as she finds a truffle. Continue reading “The Chianti and Truffle Tour in Florence, Italy”

Ristorante Dorando in San Gimignano, Italy Review

Ristorante Dorando is a Small Town Gem

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Ristorante Dorando is a delectable spot located in the nostalgic, ancient walled city of San Gimignano. Dorando has earned a reputation as one of the best places to dine at in this quaint city and is included in the city’s Michelin Guide. The restaurant’s 14th century arched brick walls and ceiling lends it a historically gorgeous veneer. It was such a joy to dine in a unique and venerable setting where you feel as if you were taken aback to a historic wine cellar (which, funny enough, we actually happen to be in.)

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Ristorante Dorando adeptly fuses classic Tuscan dishes with a modern and creative flair. The plates are attractive as well as delicious.  The home grown and cordial Chef Duccio presented some of his classic dishes and enlightened us about the history of Etruscan food, the restaurant and of his city. Continue reading “Ristorante Dorando in San Gimignano, Italy Review”

Ristorante Grotta di Santa Caterina in Siena, Italy Review

A Charming and Scrumptious Restaurant in Siena

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Ristorante Grotta di Santa Caterina is a stellar spot run by a wonderful father and son team. The son, Francesco, manages this charming restaurant that is rich with culinary and equestrian history. Chef Bagoga was a famous jockey that decided after his retirement to cook professionally and has become an award winning chef. This delicious little restaurant is under an arched brick roof that is decorated with Bagoga’s awards, photos and paraphernalia from both his life as a jockey and a chef. In addition to their tasty food they also produce their own delightful wine and commissioned a famous artist named Daniele Cestari to create their beautiful wine labels.

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Our first dish was a sensational Savory Cheese Tart with Warm Walnut Cream.  It was a splendid mix of Italy’s most famous trio of cheeses: Ricotta, Pecorino and Parmigiano-Reggiano that blended together phenomenally. It was like an addictive, cone shaped cheese blintz that was much lighter and had a fantastic crisp golden crust. The walnut cream was very unique and complemented the tart scrumptiously. One of these treats was simply not enough. Continue reading “Ristorante Grotta di Santa Caterina in Siena, Italy Review”

Taste of the Nation South Florida

Over 50 Delectable Restaurants

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Building on last year’s unparalleled success, Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation® South Florida, is gearing up for another banner year. This year, the region’s premier culinary benefit dedicated to ending childhood hunger will showcase more than 50 of the hottest restaurants from both Dade and Broward counties, top chefs, sommeliers and mixologists and an impressive array of auction items. And after the party? The after party! Those who want to continue the revelry will love the exclusive new Black and Blanco After Party, sponsored by Tequila Casa Dragones Blanco.The much anticipated annual tasting event will take place on Tuesday, June 17, 2014 from 7 to 10 p.m., in the main ballroom of the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. General admission tickets are priced at $125 per person;VIP tickets priced at $250 per person, and provide access to the event an hour before the doors open, as well as admission to the Black and Blanco After Party.

“The inaugural Taste of the Nation South Florida in 2013, which combined what used to be known as Taste of the Nation Miami and Taste of the Nation Fort Lauderdale, proved to be a much stronger event, attracting a larger group of restaurants, attendees and sponsors,” notes the event’s Restaurant Chair, Chef Timon Balloo.

“Last year, Taste of the Nation South Florida attracted more than 50 restaurant participants and raised more than $130,000, which helped connect children in need with up to 13 million meals,” added long-time Taste of the Nation event chairman, Chef Allen Susser.  “We’re confident the event will continue to grow, helping us raise the critical funds needed to end childhood hunger.”

An impressive mix of fine dining establishments is confirmed to participate in this year’s event. The list of restaurant participants includes:  15 Steps at the Eden Roc; 3030 Ocean; Bianca at the Delano; Bread + Butter; BULLA Gastro Bar; Café Prima Pasta; Casa D’Angelo Fort Lauderdale; Cibo Wine Bar; Cypress Room; db Bistro Moderne; Daily Melt; Dolce Italian; Earls Kitchen + Bar; Eating House; Edge Steak & Bar at Four Seasons; Joe’s Stone Crab restaurant; Katsuya; Khong River House; Lilikoi & Company; Little Palm Island; Loews Miami Beach; Lure Fishbar at Loews Miami Beach; Makoto at Bal Harbour Shops; Meat Market; Milos by Costas Spiliadis; Michael Mina 74 at Fontainebleau Miami Beach; Naked Taco; Oak Tavern; The Oceanaire; OTC; Palate Party; Preston’s; PubBelly Restaurant; Quattro Gastronomia Italiana; R House; Red The Steakhouse; Sea Level; Shake Shack; SHIKANY Wynwood; Siena Tavern; Steak 954; SUGARCANE raw bar grill; SUSHISAMBA Miami Beach; Susie’s Scrumptious Sweets; SweetWater; Taperia RACA; The Bazaar by José Andrés; The Dutch at W South Beach Hotel & Residences; The Federal Food Drink & Provisions; The Forge Restaurant; Tongue and Cheek; Toro Toro Restaurant; Verde at PAMM; and Wynwood Kitchen & Bar.

The fete will continue at this year’s new Black and Blanco After Party, hosted by Chef Josh Capon at Lure Fishbar at Loews Miami Beach.  Taking place from 10 p.m. to midnight, the event will feature hors d’oeuvres by Lure, as well as chocolate temptations by some of Miami’s top pâtissiers: Jordi Panisello of Fontainebleau Miami Beach; Josh Gripper of The Dutch at The W South Beach Hotel and Residences; and Antonio Bachour of St. Regis Bal Harbour. Each sweet selection will be paired with custom cocktails created by Lure’s head mixologist Rob Ferrara showcasing the new Tequila Casa Dragones Blanco silver tequila by the celebrated independent tequila producer, Casa Dragones. Tickets for the Black and Blanco After Party are priced at $75 per person. Taste of the Nation South Florida VIP ticket holders will enjoy complimentary access to the after party.  

Tickets to both Taste of the Nation South Florida and Black and Blanco After Party are available for purchsae  at CE.NoKidHungry.org/SouthFlorida.

One hundred percent of ticket proceeds from Taste of the Nation South Florida benefit the No Kid Hungry campaign, thanks to generous support from National Presenting Sponsor Sysco, national sponsors American Express, Food Network, Cavit, OpenTable, and S.Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water and Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water, and local sponsors Lincoln Motor Company, Nespresso, Share Your Wine, Whole Foods, Wine Watch, Easy Ice, Nestle Waters, Brustman Carrino Public Relations, Panache: a Classic Party Rentals company, Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Mike Sipe Entertainment, Miami New Times and Social Thinkking.  Local beneficiaries include Florida Impact, Feeding South Florida, FLIPANY, South Florida Hunger Coalition and Florence Fuller Child Development Centers.

About Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® Campaign

No child should grow up hungry in America, but one in five children struggles with hunger. Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign is ending childhood hunger in America by ensuring all children get the healthy food they need, every day. The No Kid Hungry campaign connects kids in need to effective nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals and teaches low-income families to cook healthy, affordable meals through Cooking Matters.  This work is accomplished through the No Kid Hungry network, made up of private citizens, public officials, nonprofits, business leaders and others providing innovative hunger solutions in their communities. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.

Haven South Beach 3 Year Anniversary Party

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This Thursday, May 22, HaVen South Beach will open its doors for family, friends and  South Florida foodies to celebrate its 3 year anniversary in style. Known for its LED screen walls, DJs spinning the hottest tunes nightly and a menu featuring delectable small plates, HaVen has become a favorite Miami Beach hangout since it opened in 2011. To thank supporters, HaVen will be throwing one hell of a party with complimentary bites from Executive Chef Todd Erickson’s new menu, which will be rolling out soon, as well as samplings of Maestro Dobel and Wodka Cocktails from 10 p.m. until midnight. Sounds by Juan Control & Shaun Duval will keep the party rocking throughout the night. The celebration is open to the public and begins at 10 p.m.  Reservations requested at info@havenlounge.com. 

Tre Cristi in Siena, Italy Review

Tre Cristi Embodies the Soul of Tuscan Food

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Tre Cristi exemplifies the true soul of Etruscan food in Siena. It is the oldest restaurant in the city dating back to 1830 — that’s 184 years in business offering fresh and tasty Tuscan cuisine at very reasonable prices. The structure emits a classic, refined and warm vibe. A man and woman comprise a chef team that will take your mouth into the heart of gourmet Tuscan fare.

We love to experience the local cuisine; so naturally, we started our meal with Panzanella. A bread salad that dates back to the 14th century from a historic waste-not-want-not Tuscan tradition.  It is comprised of bread, cherry tomatoes cucumbers, olive oil and beautiful prawn and octopus on top.  The taste was very comforting and the seafood atop were so fresh and juicy.

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Tre Cristi is known for their seafood, so we sampled a Selection of Raw Sea Food Specialties. The pretty plate had scampi, sea bass and red prawn with great extra virgin olive oil. One of the great things about Italy is that you can be assured you are eating some of finest and purest olive oil in the world. There are huge scams being perpetuated around the world where olive oil not from Italy is being pawned off as Italian. The second this pure and delectable olive oil touches your lips, you’ll notice the difference and wonder what you’ve really been eating all your life. While the scampi was smooth and delicious, it was the prawn that ruled the plate. The prawn was presented as a deliriously enticing sashimi that was insanely satisfying. We refused to wash the sensational lingering prawn taste out of our mouths until the next course arrived. Continue reading “Tre Cristi in Siena, Italy Review”

A Great Place to Stay in Florence, Italy

 By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Florence is an amazing city and we had a stupendous time there. Florence hotels can be very expensive so we decided to use airbnb and found a great apartment right in the middle of the city that was very reasonably priced. The owner Monica was so sweet, professional and gave us great tips and insights for enjoying the city. We had a superb location in the heart of Florence that was within walking distance of everything. It was commodious and super clean with a big comfortable bed. There also was solid wifi, a big shower, great sheets, a washing machine and large closet space. It was just the two of us but this place could hold five pretty comfortably with its three beds. Continue reading “A Great Place to Stay in Florence, Italy”

Il Ridotto in Venice, Italy Review

Il Ridotto is an Absolute Gem

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Il Ridotto is located just behind the sumptuous St. Mark’s Basilica in gorgeous Venice. This trendy spot just received its first vaunted Michelin Star this year and we have a feeling another one is on its way soon. The restaurant’s light brick walls imbue a rustic ambiance with a modern chic décor seating 24 inside. The warm, humble and camera-shy Chef Gianni Bonaccorsi greeted us with such an amiable and enchanting smile. Riccardo was our meticulous and handsome sever who kept us wanting for nothing all afternoon.

One of our favorite facets of this restaurant is that it is very affordable. They have lunch special where one can eat three tapas, one main and a mineral water for only 28 Euros! That is one of the best deals you will EVER find at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Almost all of the dishes are either 25 or 30 Euros and nothing is more than 35 Euros. There is also a 5-course tasting menu for only 70 Euros. These are insanely reasonable prices for a restaurant of this caliber.

The opening bread basket had wonderful toasted bread that was thicker than Texas Toast as well as addictive runway model (long and skinny) bread sticks that were served with sterling Sicilian olive oil, which was perfect for dippage.

We started off our feast with the Pea Soup with Mussels, Clams, Langoustine and Bread that was utterly superb. It was so smooth yet bursting with the deep complexity of the diverse seafood flavors.

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During our whirlwind culinary adventure throughout Italy, we found dishes that were so beautifully crafted, they should have their own exhibit in a museum. The Sardine Sandwich with “Panzanella” Vegetable served with Ricotta cheese and Candied Capers was one of these resplendent masterpieces. This inside-out sardine sandwich with sweet popped rice cake was such a delight to gaze upon and indulge. The multiple colors of pepper purees added a radiant complexion to this stunning dish. All the different textures and seasonings swirled around in our mouths in an enrapturing fashion. Continue reading “Il Ridotto in Venice, Italy Review”

When in Rome, Rent in Rome

Vacation in Rome like a Local with Rent in Rome

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Rome is one of the best cities in the world to visit. The food is magnificent, the architecture is sublime and there are copious amount of historical sites and energy to take in. It is very easy to figure out the best to sites to see in Rome but people really struggle with where to stay. Hotels are very expensive, especially the ones located in the prime locations. Hostels are not cheap and those that are, will generally not be located in best areas. If you manage to stay in a central location, you can easily walk to almost all of the historic sites from your home base. The best way to discover and experience a city is to walk everywhere, so we highly recommend securing a centrally located spot. Continue reading “When in Rome, Rent in Rome”

Ristorante Life in Rome Review

 Ristorante Life Loves to Feed you Exquisite Slow Food

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Ristorante Life is a superb establishment located in the nicest area (The Rodeo Drive) of Rome. Life is run by Clemente and Giovanna, a brother and sister sommelier team that is committed to the institution of Slow Food. The beauty and philosophy of Slow Food, which started in Italy involves preserving and promoting local foods and centuries-old traditions of gastronomy and food production that Italy has abided by for centuries.

Clemente is one of those people that you just feel an instant endearing connection with. He is wise, passionate and insightful. We authentically felt his abundant love for his food, the Earth and his customers.  He explained how Ristorante Life, as part of the Slow Food movement, only uses the finest ingredients from all over Italy. Everything at Life is Home-Made Express meaning nothing is pre-prepared. Everything is made on-demand at the moment the customer orders it.  This type of service requires extra hands in the kitchen but the results are well worth it. There is fresh fish daily and bread baked in-house twice a day. They specialize in fresh truffles delivered every two weeks as well. You can really feel the quality, love and freshness of the food there. Continue reading “Ristorante Life in Rome Review”

Osteria Personale in Florence Review

Osteria Personale is an Absolute Revelation

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Osteria Personale is a visionary masterpiece. The owner Matteo Fantini is a former veterinarian turned brilliant chef and mad scientist that has prolifically pushed culinary taste, texture and creativity to an unchartered territory of innovative deliciousness. Florence is home to many amazing restaurants that cook traditional Italian food, but that’s not what you’ll find here. The affable Mateo has taken traditional dishes and reimagined them in smart and inventive ways. In fact, he does not even serve pasta!

Personale has a very comfortable and intimate setting further enhanced by a seductive jazz soundtrack that creates an inviting ambiance. Matteo, himself, warmly greets you at the door. The restaurant only seats 28 and was virtually packed on a rainy Friday night.  This profoundly visionary menu is so complex, yet so simple with only 15 dishes to order from.   It’s impossible not to get excited after reading the menu.

The journey began with a vibrantly vivid Carrot “Soup” sprinkled with miniature morsels of herring.  While it was called a soup, it was far lighter than your typical carrot soup.  Any lighter and it might have just floated away. It was adeptly fine and silky smooth, reminding us of Scarpetta’s velvet like polenta in its delicate consistency.

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The show really started when Mateo’s brilliant take on burrata graced our table.  His Burrata Cheese with Tomato Sorbet, Olive Crumble, Peas and Crispy Rocket was by far the best burrata we have ever had. Two beautiful scoops of this soft cheese lay atop a celestial olive crumble.  The magnificent olive crumble added such a beautiful level of oral depth and texture to the phenomenal cheese. It was akin to cookie crumbles on a sundae or Bacos on a salad that adds a glorious and much needed crunch. The mound of tomato sorbet atop the olive crumble was original, tasteful and refreshing.  No crumb was left behind on this epic dish. Continue reading “Osteria Personale in Florence Review”

Florence Food Tour Review

 By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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The Florence Food Tour was a great tour that really gives you a sense of the cuisine of Florence while simultaneously enlightening you and stuffing you to the gills. Benedetta was our born and raised local tour guide. She gave us a very interesting and educational tour.

Stop one was Cafecito time. Chiaro Scuro is known as one of the best espresso bars in Florence. Chiaro has an eclectic spectrum of exotic coffee beans. This Italians use a percolator at home, they call it a Moka. Espresso machines were created in Italy and the name as it implied is based on the fact that it comes out quite swiftly. Italy is known as the best bean roaster in the world so beans are actually shipped here just to be roasted. The typical espresso blend is 80% Arabica bean and 20% Robusta bean.

Kopi luwak is recognized as the best coffee in the world. A special animal in Indonesia eats the coffee bean berries and then they shit out the beans which are used for this “special” coffee. A tiny espresso goes for around 10 euros but we received a half price local discount so it wasn’t that much more expensive than Starbucks. We obviously had to sample the “best coffee” in the world so we obliged. It had a very strange and different taste but I guess that comes along with the animal shitting the bean out process. It kind of did taste like an animal ass but it left a very cool film on the roof of your mouth. It was not our cup of tea but it was definitely worth the experience. Continue reading “Florence Food Tour Review”

La Pergola is the Quintessence of Fine Dining in Rome

La Pergola Will Be the Best Meal of Your Life

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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The über brilliant German Chef Heinz Beck has impacted culinary history in a profoundly gifted manner. Chef Beck’s Three Star Michelin restaurant La Pergola is a gastronomic haven of unparalleled degree. Beck and his ridiculously talented team of 20 create masterpieces that fuse exquisite art, brilliant culinary science and the most delectable food on the planet to create the finest meal you most likely will ever experience.

There was actually a 50% chance that La Pergola would not even exist. Heinz has a twin brother who also wanted to be a chef. Their father did not want both of them to become chefs, so he decided to flip a coin to let fate determine who would be allowed to follow their dream. Fortunately for us and all of La Pergola’s blessed patrons, Heinz prevailed and created the treasured jewel that is La Pergola in the beautiful city of Rome.

The 9-course tasting menu (220 Euros) is a gift that all who can must bestow upon their palates. It will not merely be the most striking gastronomy you ever sample, but it will also be a ravishing art show, a scientific learning experience and a marvelous, one-of-a-kind production from start to finish.

La Pergola boasts an extensive water menu with over 25 selections. We chose a naturally carbonated water from a nearby Italian city instead of the 120 Euro water that was made by some Hollywood producer and can only be purchased at a few outlets around the world.

The 9-course menu opened with a Duck Foie Gras with Apple, Almond and Amaretti that was decidedly the best bite of food that the Hedonist ever tasted. The apples and almonds were perfect additions to tame the foie creating an oral symphony of epic proportions. The Hedonist, a lover and purveyor of enthralling foie has sampled it across three continents, but none were ever executed so miraculously. If you ever find yourself on death row, this is one of the plates you should request before meeting your maker.

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Eden is an artistic and gorgeous plate inspired by Japanese Watercress Gardens. The garden was designed with aqua green tapioca balls and mangos, papayas, black caviar and Venus clams strewn across it as decorative flowers. The Hedonist use to scoff at people that claimed food was art until this extraordinary plate made his eyes pop out from the sheer masterful beauty. It is perhaps even too sexy to eat, but please put it in your mouth anyways because the amazing waiters will wait as long as you need to finish it. Continue reading “La Pergola is the Quintessence of Fine Dining in Rome”

The Taste of Tuscany Wine Tour in Florence

 A Fun and Hilarious Tour

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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We have been on loads of tours. Some awesome, some shitty and some even dangerous. The Taste of Tuscany Wine Tour from Italy on a Budget Tours was our best ever and we highly recommend and even demand that you get on it. The combination of fun, hilarity, education, activities and value for your Euro makes this tour a MUST do while in Florence.

Italy on a Budget Tourswas created to allow young (hopefully old too) backpackers the ability to tour Italy without breaking the bank. They offer day trips, cooking classes, bike tours, pub crawls and food tours among many others. The Taste of Tuscany Wine Tour bounces its patrons in a Mercedes van around Siena, the Chianti wine region, Monteriggioni, and ends with a jovial dinner on a farm in Poggibonsi.

The tour guide and company owner was a hilarious and spunky Italian named Irene. She was cracking up our group the entire trip with her witty naughty humor, stories and improv. She gave us our own Italian names and was by far the best guide we have ever had. Her adorable British accent (she will erroneously claim she doesn’t have one) made the trip extra enjoyable.  Our crew was a lively and lovely group of cheeky Anglo Saxons that spanned across the States, Wales (look it up) and West Australia. We had a cool honeymooning couple as well as 3 sisters from Spain on a bachelorette party.

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The first stop was a winery located in the fertile Chianti Classico region amongst legitimate breathtaking scenery. The spot was called Casa Sola, a beautiful private winery that dates back to the year 1000! The house was covered in artistic vines overlooking precious beckoning grape vines. The owner Maria walked us through the entire olive oil & wine making processes. It was quite fascinating to learn the intricacies of both. Continue reading “The Taste of Tuscany Wine Tour in Florence”

Luxury Italian Kitchen Brand Veneta Cucine Revealed Newly Renovated Showroom With Chic Relaunch Event

Italian Staple Hosted Unveiling Event of North Miami Showroom

MIAMI – April 29, 2014 – On Thursday, April 24, the internationally-acclaimed luxury Italian kitchen brand Veneta Cucine unveiled its newly renovated showroom with a chic relaunch event. The 2,000-square-foot space was revealed among 300 guests in an evening entailing Italian design and innovation, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.  The much-anticipated event featured a live cooking demonstration by co-host and renowned Chef Philippe Fiore, who has been the private chef of A-list celebrities, such as Julio Iglesias, Chayanne, Mel Gibson and Shakira, to name a few.

“We are elated to show our newly remodeled showroom which has undergone a complete floor-to-ceiling transformation,” says Corrado Bonanno, store and design manager for Veneta Cucine. “Since introducing the brand to the US in 2004, Veneta Cucine continues to flourish thanks to the unflagging support from our consumers.”

Attendees were among the first to view Veneta Cucine’s luxe kitchens showcasing LED-backlit Onyx counter tops by Crystaline Stone and quartz counter tops by Caesarstone. Additional sponsors included Bang & Olufsen, Nespresso, FIAT of North Miami and Italian Prosecco wines by PW Wine Distributors.

Guests received goody bags and had the chance to win gifts by Bang & Olufsen and Nespresso.

The showroom is located at 2020 NE 163 Street, Suite 100 North Miami Beach, FL 33162.

About Veneta Cucine

Designed with contemporary flair, Veneta Cucine accentuates the appeal of any interior with effortless ease. Internationally-recognized, Veneta Cucine has a well-established reputation for its foundation on functionality, ergonomic designs, state-of-the-art technology and luxe appeal. The Italian company is now a leading brand throughout Europe and a staple for global consumers who choose “Made in Italy” brands. Backed up by a highly developed business sense, Veneta Cucine manages an extraordinary wide-ranging production with high quality standards, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology and the most skilled forms of craftsmanship. Reliability and beauty are the values that distinguish a range divided into areas of style that look to the most recent aesthetic forms and evolved functions, while remaining true to the heritage of traditional quality. For more information about Veneta Cucine, please visit www.venetacucineus.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Fonticiella
SpinHouse PR
786.246.2953
Michelle@spinhouse-pr.com

Sapori del Lord Byron in Rome is an Experience of Grandeur

By Ari Kane, Photographs by Daniella Veras

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Our first true Italian meal was at the luxurious Sapori del Lord Byron. This resplendent restaurant is located in the five-star Lord Byron Hotel, about a 10-minute drive north of the touristic Roman circle. It boasts only 32 rooms and prides itself on being an under the radar establishment frequented by politicians and affluent foreigners. Sapori is included in the Rome Michelin Guide and has an antique, yet modern-aristocratic country club ambiance. The atmosphere coupled with exquisite service makes its patrons feel as if they were descended from noble origins.

The service at Sapori del Lord Byron was nothing short of impeccable. Nicola is a soft spoken, sweet and attentive sommelier that advised us on some immaculate wine pairings and shared insights on the art of wine, all with a warm, inviting smile. While most of our waiters in Miami struggle with our native tongue, our gracious and astute multilingual waiter, Alessandro speaks four: Italian, French, English and Spanish. They were both so amiable and meticulous the entire night, which speaks volumes, since most dinners in Rome last for over three hours.

The Crunchy Polenta Horn stuffed with Creamy Cod served with rosemary flavored chickpea puree was a creative treat. The smooth polenta had awesome chunks of flavorful cod. The cone was made of a fantastic crust that literally shattered deliciously in the mouth.

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The Eggplant Parmesan contained a soft noodle exterior with a side of pesto and topped with fresh basil leaves that blended together beautifully. It also included fried eggplant sticks that added a great crunchy layer of texture to this tasty plate. Continue reading “Sapori del Lord Byron in Rome is an Experience of Grandeur”

R House Launches its Sunday Sauce Brunch in Wynwood

 

R House interior Design by Felpe Lara  - photo credit Marianela Holly

 

Sunday Sauce @ R House in Wynwood is kicking off this Sunday, April 27. Chef/Owner Rocco Carulli is introducing a killer Sunday Brunch and Music series. Sunday Sauce @ R House ($35) will include an unlimited selection of brunch dishes highlighting Carulli’s eclectic, contemporary American cuisine. The menu includes lobster mac and cheddar cheese; grilled artisanal sausages – chorizo, lamb and chicken; purple potato tortilla – feta cheese, roasted red pepper and thyme; chili-coffee braised short rib sliders with caramelized onion, molasses reduction and roasted garlic yogurt sauce; buttermilk cornbread and many more.

Guest can also enjoy single ($9) or bottomless ($22) classic brunch libations and a rotation of live music and DJs. Brunch + bottomless drink special priced at $52 per person will also be available for the ultimate brunch aficionado.

R House makes truly scrumptious food and drinks and we are excited for its new Brunch! 

Viewing Party for Huahua’s Taqueria’s Cooking Channel Premiere

 

Chef Todd Erickson_ Huahua's Taqueria photo credit - Jipsy

Fried Chicken Taco - photo credit Jipsy

As they searched high and low across the US for the best tacos, Chef Aaron Sanchez stopped by Huahua’s Taqueria with the Cooking Channel to speak with Chef Todd Erickson about his delicious Fried Chicken taco (which also recently represented Florida in Food Network Magazine’s list of 50 States, 50 Tacos).

Taco Trip will air on the Cooking Channel this Sunday, April 27th at 8PM, and Huahua’s will be hosting a viewing party to watch the 1 hour special LIVE on their TV screens. In honor of this exciting occasion, Huahua’s will also be offering an ALL DAY food & drink special on Sunday the 27th;  two Fried Chicken Tacos, half of their signature Elote & a regular soda for only $9.99.

Come partake in this delicious deal and party!

Cinco De Mayo Fiesta at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne’s Cantina Beach

CANTINA BEACH COMMEMORATES MEXICO’S BATALLA DE PUEBLA
WITH A COLORFUL CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA

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With the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop, Miami’s only oceanfront Mexican restaurant, Cantina Beach at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami transforms into the colorful streets of Mexico for an evening including high flying performances, stilt walkers, DJ, mariachis, complimentary salsas bites, and with the largest collection in the region, 110 tequilas. From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, May 3rd, guests can enjoy tastes of authentic Mexican treats and Chef Andres Parlange’s live culinary display featuring Tacos al Pastor, Tacos Arabes and Cochinita Pibil. Tequilier Heriberto Oviedo unveils the restaurant’s third, Casa Herradura double barrel reposado tequila, hand-selected and made exclusively for Cantina Beach.

Cantina Beach’s regular dinner menu will be available throughout the evening and parking validation is available. Reservations are not required. For additional information or to view Cantina Beach’s dinner menu, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/keybiscayne

Cantina Beach at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is located at 455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne, FL.

About The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is just minutes from the city’s cosmopolitan center, yet feels like a secluded island getaway with its lush tropical gardens, infinity ocean views and the only South Florida beach on Dr. Beach’s Top Ten Beaches in the U.S. list. Connected to Miami by a picturesque causeway, the luxury resort is a renowned spa destination, has four globally-inspired dining venues, which take guests on culinary journeys to Tuscany, Coastal Mexico and St. Tropez, and has the largest tennis center of any Ritz-Carlton in the world. The award-winning resort is recognized by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Robb Report, Forbes, Tennis magazine and Golf Digest as among the world’s best hotels.  For additional information or reservations, call The Ritz-Carlton toll free at (800) 241-3333, the resort directly at (305) 365-4500, a travel professional or visit The Ritz‑Carlton Web site at:www.ritzcarlton.com<http://www.ritzcarlton.com/

Roberto Cavalli Hosted Wine Dinner

ROBERTO CAVALLI & SON TOMMASO TO HOST FOUR-COURSE WINE DINNER
WITH TENUTA DEGLI DEI AT CAVALLI MIAMI RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Cavalli Miami Interior 2 Photo Credit Seth Browarnik-Worldredeye.com

 

World-renowned couturier Roberto Cavalli along with his son, wine aficionado Tommaso Cavalli, are taking a break from the beautiful Italian peninsula to host a special four-course dinner paired with the family wine at Cavalli Miami Restaurant & Lounge. On Thursday, April 24, the father and son duo will bring their finest Italian vinos from the Cavalli vineyard,Tenuta degli Dei, where each vintage will be paired with the culinary delights of Executive Chef Stefano Mazzi. The four-course wine dinner is priced at $120 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

In true, authentic Italian fashion, the evening will begin with appetizer choices of vitello tonnato; prosciutto di parma with port-infused melon and truffle pecorino; or Tuscan chianina beef tartare and truffles, all paired with Le Redini 2010 IGT. Cavalli Miami Restaurant & Lounge’s sommelier, Matias Benjamin Vergara, will talk about the rich history of Roberto Cavalli’s wine and grappa grown in the region of Chianti just outside of Florence, where Tommaso has resided since 1989. Primi options, which present diners with an array of classic pasta dishes, include agnolotti al burro e salvia; gnocchi al ragout d’anatra; and wild boar ravioli and truffle, are complemented with a glass of Tenuta Degli Dei 2007 IGT.

For main plates, guests will enjoy Tenuta Degli Dei 2009 IGT with a choice of fileto di manzo al Tenuta Degli Dei and rosemary potatoes; Colorado rack of lamb, salmorillo sauce and grilled vegetables; or vitello al burro and salvia with white asparagus. Guests can end the night on a sweet note with a choice of a tropical and citrus sorbet; chocolate crème brulee; or vacherine roasted pineapple, honey sorbet and thyme gelato.

Seating for the wine pairing dinner is available from 6:45 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (305) 695-4191. Cavalli Miami Restaurant & Lounge is located at 150 Ocean Drive on Miami Beach. Dinner nightly from 6pm. www.cavallimiami.com.

Enjoy this exquisite opportunity.

 

A Rare Brunch at The Forge in Honor of Mother’s Day

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It’s the rare person who can get a restaurant to open their doors when they are closed.  Enter Mom.

Iconic Miami restaurant The Forge never offers brunch…except this one time of year.  An annual affair for many regulars, the restaurant has crafted a new, all-inclusive prix-fixe menu, prepared by newly appointed Michelin-starred Executive Chef Christopher Lee.

Event: Mother’s Day Brunch at The Forge Executive Chef Christopher Lee

Location: 432 W. 41st

Date: Sunday, May 11, 2014

Time: 11am until 3pm

Reservations: 305 538 8533

Web address: www.theforge.com

Price: $75 per person / $35 for children under 12

Price does not include service Charge and tax

 

Cold Buffet

Breakfast Goodies: Croissants, Muffins, Danishes, & Scones

Smoked Salmon With Citrus Fennel Salad

Cured Meats And Artisan Cheeses

Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare With Miso Sake Dressing

Chilled Shrimp With Bloody Mary Sauce

England Style Mini Lobster Rolls

Oysters Shooters With Jalapeno & Pineapple

Greek Yogurt Parfaits With Granola & Mixed Berries

Heirloom Tomatoes With Fresh Mozzarella

Kale Salad With Pine Nuts, Currents, And Parmesan Cheese

Chilled Cucumber Soup With Crab Salad

Beef Carpaccio “Blt’s”

 

Main Courses { Ordered at the Table}

Surf & Turf Benedict

Filet Mignon, Butter Poached Lobster, Béarnaise Sauce

Banana Bread French Toast

Maple Syrup, Cinnamon Sugar, Fresh Strawberries

Buttermilk Blueberry Pancakes

Fennel Sausage, Mint, Whipped Crème

3 Egg Omelet

Green Asparagus, Aged Cheddar, Caramelized Onions

Shrimp & Grits

Okra, Peppers, Honey Butter, Étouffée Sauce

3 Eggs Your Way

Bacon, Sausage, Hash Brown, Choice Of Toast

Steak & Eggs

Petit “Super Steak”, Creamed Spinach, Choice Of Toast

Grilled Scottish Salmon

Marinated Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Yogurt Dill Dressing

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Garlic Croutons, Parmesan Cheese, Spanish White Anchovies

Black Truffle Mac & Cheese Pot Pie

Braised Beef Short Rib

Chicken Milanese

Arugula, Fennel, Parmesan Cheese, Saffron Aioli

“The Forge” Aged Hamburger

Bacon, Grilled Onions, Heirloom Tomato, “Special Sauce”

 

Mother’s Day Brunch Dessert Table

Mini Key Lime & Lemon Meringue Tarts

Vanilla Bean Chantilly, Burnt Meringue

Coconut Cream Cake

Candied Coquitos, Toasted Coconut

Espresso Dark Chocolate & Mango White Chocolate Truffles

Tropical & Mixed Berry Verrines

Roasted Pineapple Compote, Cocoa Nib Soil

“Black Smith” Push Up Pops

Gianduja Mousse Cups

Hazelnut, Manjari Cremeux

New York Style Cheesecake

White Chocolate, Passion Fruit

Mother’s Day Macaroons

Strawberry Short Cake

Anise Hyssop, Candied Almonds

 

Fifth Annual Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami All-Star Charity Tennis Event Photos

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The 2013 Sony Open men’s and women’s winners returned to The Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami for the fifth consecutive year in an unprecedented, intimate gathering of the world’s top tennis players. The gathering was held on the afternoon of March 18th and allowed 24 amateur players the opportunity to test their skills in a Round Robin qualifying tournament in which the winners earned a chance to play against and alongside the top professionals in the world.

The event featured:

*   Novak Djokovic, won six Grand Slam titles and ranked number 2 in the world
*   Serena Williams, currently ranked number one single’s women player in the world and 17 time Grand Slam winner
*   Ana Ivanovic, former number 1 singles player in the world and winner of the French Open

The event was sooooo much fun. The players were festive and cracking jokes the whole time and the attendees got real up close and personal with tennis’s greatest stars. There was also a cocktail reception provided by Finlandia Vodka and Chambord, delectable passed hors d’oeuvres and exhibition matches with the top stars. It was an amazing event that we will definitely be back next year to cover.

 

Hearts & Stars Gala Brings out Miami’s Sexiest

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Miami’s finest, sexiest and most charitable flocked to Billy Dean’s Villa this past Saturday night March 15 for the 5th annual Hearts and Stars Gala 2014. This popular gala is thrown to benefit The Little lighthouse Foundation, a benevolent charity that assists children and their families in South Florida who struggle with educational, financial, and medical hardships. This support is derived from recruiting and educating passionate, caring, socially conscious South Floridians, and then deploying them to beneficiary charities.

This year’s gala had a Macau (Asia’s Vegas) theme and there were charity gambling tables strewn across the party to raise funds. The food was Asian style and the drinks as usual at Billy’s Villa were top shelf. Men’s eyes and necks were working diligently to keep up with all the gorgeous models and Miami socialites parading by in their tightest and sexiest attire. It was a an amazing party that raised money and awareness for a superb organization

 

Photo Credit: Veronica Nika

 

 

Sprung Beer Festival 2014

Sprung Beer Fest Unleashes the Fun

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When March rolls around and the rest of the country is still wallowing in their miserable frozen tundra existence, Miami is having one of its most festive months. While most Miamians are enthralled by “molly-fied” Ultra Music Fest & Winter Music Conference, debaucherous Spring Break, and March Madness tourney brackets, we actually get the most amped up about Sprung! This past Saturday, March 8th on a literal gorgeous f*cking day, the unlimited beer tasting was packed with lively people getting drunk in such blissful harmony. In a land laden with $500 bottles of $30 vodka surrounded by bottle whores and douchebags, Sprung brings out the coolest, funnest and most laidback South Florida peeps.

We got way too Sprung way too early to sample all of the beers and compose a best of list. But one beer really made syrupy delectable love with our discerning palates which we affectionately call Waffle Cider. The unimaginative marketing department at Woodchuck Hard Cider for some reason decided to call it Spring Cider and, unfortunately, made it a limited release. Make no mistake, this bottle contains a magical cider that tastes like an exquisite brown sugared, maple syrup liquid waffle goodness. Part of the reason we write is because we love to share things we love, as evidenced by the close to 50 people we rounded up to sample it.  ’Twas the best cider we ever tasted and it was adored by almost all. If they change its name to Waffle Cider and throw some marketing money behind it, this could become one of the most popular ciders ever. We are still waiting on our free Keg of it for being the best free brand ambassadors Woodchuck has ever had.

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Our usual favorite Florida Beer local breweries like the Celestial Funky Buddha, Holy Mackerel, M.I.A, and Opus Ales were also on hand slinging their unique and scrumptious libations. There was also the Orange Pride Games Arena & Bar, which included Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Beer Pong, Mega Twister and Human Bowling. The following are some of our other favorites of the day:

Cigar City Jai Alai India Pale Ale  – it’s no accident this beer was rated a whopping 99%by ratebeer.com. Poured at the tent manned by Kush, the new amazing craft beer and burger haven that just opened in Wynwood from the Lokal creators. We kept going back for more — and we don’t even like IPA’s.

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Holy Mackerel’s Panic Attack – This Belgian style ale with a subtle hint of spice felt like cool, smooth silk enveloping your tongue. So smooth, in fact, we were surprised to find the ABV clocking in at 10%. 

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Another fest highlight was the incredible performance by cover band Band Suo. The remarkably talented band and hot female lead singer had the crowd participating in a huge drunken dance party with their awesome covers of Pharell’s “Happy”, the Isley Brothers “Shout” and Bruno Mars’s “Treasure.”

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We always have a great time at Sprung and this year kpe the fub streak alive. We are already looking forward to getting smashed at Grovetoberfest in October.

 

 

 

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Debuts in Miami

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Do you know what the litmus test for a great Asian restaurant is?  Take a look around and see if Asians are actually eating there.  At any given time Gyu-Kaku is packed with Asians and has even obtained quite a bit of popularity with Miami locals.  This restaurant opened in Brickell this past January and is already packed, without even advertising. Gyu-Kaku  is Japanese BBQ heaven!

Japanese BBQ or Yakiniku is when there is a grill in the middle of the table that the patrons employ to cook the meat, seafood and veggies they order. It is quite fun, unique, interactive and can be very entertaining. A friend invited us there for their phenomenal lunch special and we fell in love with their Toro Beef. The lunch special includes an awesome salad, miso soup, rice and two meats for $10 or three meats for $13. The meat choices are Toro Beef, Tongue, Hanger Steak, Pork Belly, Chicken Tenders, Japanese Pork Sausage or Filet Mignon. Definitely order the Toro because it is AmazeBalls. The meat arrives raw yet marinated and you are responsible for cooking it on the grill in the middle of the table. We enjoyed lunch so much that we came back for a Chef tasting dinner to try everything. Since the menu is ridiculously extensive, we could not try it all (at least not in one sitting) but were immensely impressed with the items we sampled. We will highlight our favorites below.

Continue reading “Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Debuts in Miami”

Photographs of VeritageMiami’s Crush for a Cause

Miami Power Players Crush Grapes to Promote VeritageMiami to Benefit United Way

The happy VIC's posing with the winner.

Five of Miami’s top business leaders went foot-to-foot crushing grapes to raise awareness for the 19th annual VERITAGEMIAMI, the annual wine, spirits and craft beer festival taking place April 9-12, 2014, benefitting the United Way of Miami. Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises and Chair of VERITAGEMIAMI, went toe-to-toe with Jorge Perez, founder of The Related Group, Philip Levine, City of Miami Beach Mayor, Hilarie Bass, shareholder and co-president of Greenberg Traurig and Allen Morris, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Allen Morris Company – all longtime United Way supporters and volunteers – on a grape crushathon. Jorge crushed the competition to secure the crown (pictured below).

In celebration of this year’s VERITAGEMIAMI, these Miami business magnates emulated Ancient Romans by crushing grapes in wooden barrels. Passersby witnessed Miami VIC’s (Very Important Crushers) getting their feet dirty in this friendly competition. Spectators also earned a chance to enter to win tickets to VERITAGEMIAMI.

VERITAGEMIAMI is where Miami’s wine and food scene comes together for a world-class experience. Through a series of year-round events, culminating in a four-day gathering, wine, spirits, beer and food lovers join with top sommeliers, notable chefs, prestigious wineries, winemakers and breweries to eat, drink and unite all for a greater purpose. Celebrating 19 years, VeritageMiami benefits United Way of Miami-Dade, supporting programs in our community that are focused on improving education, financial stability and health – the building blocks for a good life.

For more information, visit www.veritagemiami.com or www.facebook.com/VeritageMiami or follow us on Twitter @VeritageMiami #VeritageCrush

R House Opens in Wynwood

R House exterior - photo credit Manny Hernandez

The beloved Wynwood art district is continuing to thrive and has really elevated its game with the arrival of R House. R House is a beautiful new concept that flawlessly intertwines sumptuous cuisine, vibrant art and talented musicians into a serene and gratifying setting.  Chef and owner Rocco Carulli describes it as a “full sensory experience” and he has definitely succeeded in his goal of utter immersion.

The restaurant is alluring, commodious and incorporates vivid and radiant paintings into its motif. It does not feel like a museum, but rather a restaurant with splendid art decor. There is a huge courtyard with outdoor seating and an area for large bands to perform. The food was marvelous and included passed hors d’oeuvres of sweet short rib sliders with caramelized onions, awesome tuna tartare with a hint of wasabi, duck confit spring rolls, goat cheese crostini, and sweet chili skirt steak skewers. There was also a  gourmet buffet that included Brazilian seafood moqueca with ample shrimp and succulent scallops, wild mushroom pesto risotto, futti di mare, pasta with broccolini and parmesan cheese, Israeli couscous with mixed grilled vegetables and a delicious sweet pea falafel with Mediterranean salad.

It was quite an experience dining on delectable cuisine and admiring art while listening to melodic music in the courtyard. It truly was an enjoyable multisensory experience and one which we would gladly partake in again.

 

 

 

 

Dinner Lab Miami Now Open for Adventurous Foodies

Dining in a Boxing Gym

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There is a severe crisis afflicting the affluent and dedicated foodies of our country — they are running out of new places to eat!! Fear not, because the Dinner Lab has opened and has now come to Miami to alleviate this existential catastrophe.

“The Dinner Lab is a membership-based social dining experiment that unites undiscovered chefs with adventurous diners who are looking for something different from the traditional restaurant experience. Whether it happens on the roof of an abandoned building, the floor of a paper mill, or inside a motorcycle dealership….Our events bring together a group of interesting strangers around a common table to share cuisine crafted by up-and-coming chefs from all over the country. We don’t dictate what our chefs cook, but instead give them a platform to tell a story through the menu – recipes that speak to their background or heritage, ingredients they are passionate about, or completely new dishes they have been experimenting with on days away from the restaurant.”

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We adore this idea and were very excited to try it. After all, an open mind and adventurous spirit are the keys to discovering new delicacies. We embarked upon our Lab experience on Valentine’s Night for the “Tough Love” themed dinner at Matt Baiamonte’s Boxing Clubin Wynwood. It was quite interesting to dine and imbibe in a locale where people usually shed blood, sweat and tears considering those juices are usually reserved for restaurant kitchens. Thankfully, the intoxicating scent of BO (Body Odor) was not present, replaced instead with the mouth-watering aromas of the fare being prepared. The lab has a 30 minute cocktail hour preceding dinner where, wine, beer, and mixed drinks were graciously served. The ginger beer and rum concoctions were quite tasty.

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There were about seven tables for our time slot filled with food-loving strangers to choose from. We were astutely drawn to the one with a fabulous gay and lesbian couple. There is something tantalizing about dining with strangers who share your bravery and openness. It turned out to be tremendously fun. The meal opened with a several little treats served one by one including a great baked pear with a mysterious curry cream, a crostini with tomato and basil and a superbly seasoned oyster.

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First course - Grilled Cremini with toasted goat cheese gnudi and bechamel. This dish emitted a magnificent saliva inducing scent. Gnudi made with ricotta and a bit of flour leaving behind a dumpling also known as “naked ravioli“ ravioli filling without the pasta resulting in a dumpling-like delight. If you like gnocchi, chances are you’ll be a fan of gnudi, too.  The cremini mushrooms (immature portabella mushrooms) were succulent and had a deep decadent taste that balanced well with fluffy lightness of the the goat cheese gnudi.

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Second course – Cuttlefish Carbonara with bacon, scallion, Parmesan foam and quail eggs. This was a truly creatively delicious spin on carbonara. The flavor was sublime and the mix of the crunchy bacon and Parmesan foam with quail egg created a savory orgy of textures thats were a joy to swirl in your mouth. It was tongues down the paramount dish of the night.

 

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Third course - Confit Hanger with sweet potato carrot puree, and roast pepper relish. This dish had a lot of potential, but fell flat on its face like a boxer facing Mohammed Ali in his prime. The steak was ridiculously well done with a spicy and sweet potato carrot purée that left the palate confused.

 

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Fourth course – Gallette De Cochon with pork galce, cauliflower purée and poached mustard seeds.  The crispy crust pulled pork with stellar cauliflower puree was pretty delicious. The cauliflower puree was so smooth, you couldn’t believe it wasn’t potato.

 

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Fifth course – Truffle Duo with hazelnut, almond, white chocolate truffle, raspberry sorbet, shortbread cookie and dark chocolate ganache. This dessert plate was split in two with marvelous on one side and dessert confusion on the other. The white truffle ball over the dark chocolate ganache was sublime. We could have eaten a baker’s dozen of them. Unfortunately,the overtly sour and harsh raspberry sorbet created havoc on the plate. It was so heinously tart and overpowering that we were uttelry bewildered about its plate presence. Thankfully, it was quarantined to one side so it did not contaminate the delectable truffle ball.

 

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The motto of the Lab is “consistently inconsistent,” so some meals may be phenom and others not so much. While ours fell a little short of phenom, we still loved the experience and enjoyed trying these experimental dishes. We had an amazing time eating and drinking brand new food with cool, fun and hilarious strangers. We will gladly be a chef’s guinea pig again at the Dinner Lab again.

Sea Salt and Pepper with a Side of Swank

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Courtesy of Thehulltruth.com

We are admirable proponents of aquatic-side dining. It adds a touch of serenity to the meal and amplifies the experience. We were fortunate enough to have a Chef’s tasting at the new Sea Salt and Pepper in the company of our new friends who happen to be a foodie writer couple like us. Do you know what happens when four foodies get together to dine? No leftovers.

Situated right off of the Miami River by the fresh fish market, we were tremendously impressed with how beauteous this place was. The architecture is exquisite and we caught ourselves admiring the place throughout dinner taking in the ambience. The restaurant is colossal with ample seating indoors, outdoors and at the bar. The water skyline paints a majestic backdrop that is visible from both the inside and the dockside seating. Sea-faring tycoons may navigate their yacht and dock it there, if they are so inclined. We do not know if aqua valet is extra. For your reading pleasure, we will highlight our favorite dishes of the night.

The Grilled Octopus ($18) was thick, fresh and juicy. The luxurious tentacles shimmered with a pretty purple hue and were quickly consumed off the plate. Octopus is usually served in some variation of sauce, so it was a nice treat to sample it with only olive oil, lemon zest and fresh herbs. It really helped us appreciate how delicious naked octopus tastes.

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The Black Truffle Veal Chop ($46) was by far the table’s darling dish of the night. It was a sizable portion that was wood fire oven roasted to perfection. The chop was soft as velvet and erupting with alluring truffilized baby cow nectar. The bone was literally gnawed on and sucked caveman style. Putting truffle on anything is usually a great idea but lathering it on a succulent veal chop is fu*king brilliant.

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The Classic Seasalt Seafood ($70) is a platter that is $35 a person that requires a minimum order of two people. It is a cornucopia of tasty sea critters with dungeness crab, lobster, jumbo shrimp and fish soaking in a solid tomato broth. We gave them a touching and joyous burial in our mouths.

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Sea Salt and Pepper is a gorgeous place to dine. The chic upbeat vibe mixed with the placid river setting will impress your friends, your date and even your parents.

 

Swamp Stomp at Tobacco Road

Tremendously Talented Musicians Perform at Tobacco Road

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In this day and age where it is prohibitively expensive to experience some truly amazing non local music, it was so beautiful to see good ole Tobacco Road offering up a melodic solution. The literal Miami institution which has been around for over 100 years hosted the 7th Annual Swamp Stomp that brought together some of the best bands you have probably never heard. For $10, YES ONLY $10, one could partake in a superb two night music festival headlined by the uber talented reggae band Jahfe and the amazingly captivating The Bright Light Social Hour (TBLSH). There were also $50 VIP tickets to benefit the benevolent charity Generation Miami that included admission, all you can eat BBQ including delicious Swamp (gator meat) Chilli and an open bar with a solid selection of liquor, not bottom wrung shitty well piss.

The show was held in the parking lot with a stage right under the matrix of ginormous cranes building Brickell’s epic new City Center. It was a pretty remarkable to see this burgeoning project as the festival backdrop. The Friday night show was dedicated to reggae with performances by the incredibly talented, local artists Don Sha, Johnny Dreadand headlined by Jahfe. We missed Johnny, but Don Sha and Jahfe were both truly amazing. Check out their music if you want to discover some worthwhile new bands.

The Saturday night show had an American Roots and Rock n’ Roll theme. We only made it to see Roosevelt Collier’s Phunk Phactory and The Bright Light Social Hour but both profoundly rocked it. The Phunk Phactory were really badass, they are a South Florida bred instrumental band that play awesome phunky ass Jazz. They finished off their magnificent set with two classic covers, Sly and the Family Stone’s “Thank You” and George Clinton’s “We Want the Funk.”

We actually stumbled upon The Bright Light Social Hour last year by accident at The Stage and fell IN LOVE. These guys are such a talented, under-the-radar group that fuses together psychedelic/rock/southern/jam into phenomenal dream-weaving music. Do yourself a huge favor and listen to their epic song “Detroit” right now. (You know you want to click on it.) Their mesmerizing songs get under your skin and then when these guys start to jam and rip on their guitars, you just float away with them into musical Nirvana. They mixed a lot of their new songs into this set which were good but it is their old stuff that goose bumps are made of. They even played a rousing cover of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get it On” in their encore.

We had so much fun at Swamp Stomp and were so fortunate to have gone to see amazing bands and discover new ones. Thank you, Tobacco Road. We hope you continue to have these terrific Stomps for your next century of existence.

 

Photographs of Eats and Beats

Eats & Beats was the answer to the out of control prices and ostentatiousness that the Sobe Wine and Food Festival has become. The event was created to give locals a place to eat great food and hear awesome music for an affordable and reasonable price. Congratulations on a kickass party Eats and Beats, see you next year.

 

 

 

 

Photographs of Beatles Love Tribute Concert

 

On February 28th Magic City Casino hosted  the sold out All You Need is Love: A Beatles Tribute Concert, at Stage 305, Magic City Casino’s indoor entertainment venue, at 8 p.m.  All ages were welcome and tickets were available starting at $25.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Beatles arriving to America, the All You Need is Love show featured a cast of over 20 Beatles tribute musicians performing 26 Beatles hits from the 2008 Grammy award winning soundtrack, Love.

 

Lincoln, AIA Explore Similarities Between Luxury Auto Design and High-end Architecture

>Designers of luxury automobiles and architects of upscale buildings both need to create appealing, intimate and exclusive experiences for high-end clients in a functional environment

>Sophisticated, elegant design that is comfortable and efficient drives the creative process for both disciplines

>Each maximizes space while achieving a perfect balance of color and light complemented by rich materials to stimulate the senses

MIAMI, Feb. 27, 2014 – The goal of luxury automobile designers is to create a sense of occasion each time the highly discerning driver gets behind the wheel.

Architects of high-end buildings are challenged to achieve the same goal. Each discipline incorporates proportion, volume, sculpture, form, materials, graphics and space to provide unique luxury experiences that touch all the senses.

The similarities between these two worlds of design will be the subject of “Designing Luxury,” a panel discussion at the Miami Center for Architecture & Design.

“With any product or experience, the world of luxury design follows basic, yet vital, tenets,” said David Woodhouse, director of Lincoln design and a panelist. “Both luxury automobile designers and designers of high-end buildings need their creations to meet all the necessary functional requirements, but elevate the execution in a way that speaks to people’s aspirations, taps into their dreams and helps them stand apart from the crowd.”

Joining Woodhouse on the panel are two members of the American Institute of Architects: Rene Gonzalez, principal of Rene Gonzalez Architect, and Bernard Zyscovich, managing partner of Zyscovich Inc.

Moderating the dialogue is Javier F. Salman, senior project architect, Stantec, and also a member of AIA.

“I’m excited to learn about something I’m passionate about – automotive design – in a close and personal way and learn how it compares and contrasts to my particular brand of design,” said Salman, who owns a 1971 Lincoln Mark III.

This Lincoln Mark III – chocolate brown metallic exterior with bucket seats and brown interior – is one of a handful of cars owned by Salman, who repairs and restores vintage cars as a hobby.

The panel will explore designing luxury through best ways to interpret heritage and customer aspirations, then using these findings to create the luxury experience.

“Luxury automobile exterior design should be simple, inviting, approachable and most of all, elegant,” Woodhouse said. “Exterior design needs to be complemented by an interior that makes the driver feel comfortable and confident. Ultimately, the two work together to create an experience that is unique, personal and luxurious.

Integrating technology to create a warmer, more personal experience differentiates luxury automobile design. The Lincoln MKC small premium utility will debut Lincoln Experiences when it goes on sale later this year. Lincoln Experiences:

  • Anticipates needs and preferences – As you approach the vehicle it anticipates you, welcomes you and guides you with subtle and focused lighting where it is most needed.
  • Employs fluid, seamless motions and sounds – Unlocking and entering the vehicle is a fluid and effortless experience with refined motions and sounds, ambient lighting and crafted human interfaces.
  • Creates warm and inviting comfort – The cabin is a warm and inviting space with seating that embraces and forms around you, and appropriate ambient lighting to meet your needs and personal preferences.

“I am eager to listen to and participate in the exchange of ideas,” Woodhouse said. “I look forward to bringing back new perspectives I can employ in the automotive world.”

 

Images courtesy of The Lincoln Motor Company:

 

 

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About The Lincoln Motor Company
The Lincoln Motor Company is the luxury automotive brand of Ford Motor Company, committed to creating compelling vehicles with an exceptional ownership experience to match. The Lincoln Motor Company is in the process of introducing four all-new vehicles through 2016. For more information about The Lincoln Motor Company, please visit media.lincoln.com or www.lincoln.com. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/lincoln.

 

Contacts: Stéphane Cesareo Sam Locricchio
  313.323.8917 313.845.8675
  scesareo@lincoln.com slocric1@lincoln.com

Get Seduced at Scarpetta

Scarpetta’s Sultry Dining Experience

There is something exceptional in the air at the Fontainbleau. In addition to the lavish perfumes of the gorgeous gold diggers and the pretentiousness of the millionaires, there is also this intoxicating energy that imbues one with feelings of regal and sexiness. Walking through the doors and into this haven of plush indulgence seems to elevate the resort’s patrons. We finally got around to trying the fabled Scarpetta that our foodie circle raves about and took the tongue plunge. The ambiance was exalting, the service impeccable, the soundtrack melodic and the food was great too.

After promenading past the seductive bar and the beautiful people drinking at it, we were seated in a luxurious dining area. Before we even ordered our fare a tasty basket with an assortment of fresh bread was delivered along with stellar eggplant dip, oil and butter. It came hot, crispy and moist straight from the oven. The favorite was a concoction of thin sliced salami layered into the bread with tomatoes.

We started with the acclaimed Creamy Polenta and it was better than we ever could have imagined. Polenta is cornmeal that is boiled into a porridge. Scarpetta serves it next to a bowl of fricasseed (cut up, sautéed and braised) truffled mushrooms. What makes this treat so freakishly deliciously special is that the polenta is cooked for three hours, which dissolves ALL of the grains. This process transforms it into this uber creamy and deliriously superb delicacy. It possesses an amazing consistency that simultaneously dazzles and soothes the mouth. The Hedonist preferred it without the mushrooms, so you might want to stop the server from mixing the two after it is bestowed upon your table and try it both ways.

For our second app we had the Diver Scallop Crudo, with fennel orange and pine nuts. This minuscule plate was refreshing and light with a hint of sweetness.

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We started the main course with the Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli with a marsala reduction. The diminutive pasta purses were loaded with ample duck and foie with a scrumptious sauce and a generous portion. While the foie was not on par with the French versions that transports your palate into Nirvana, it was still a solid dish.

The only letdown of the night was the Black Taglioni with stewed baby octopus and basil bread crumbs. The dish looked resplendent but was truly uninspiring. It consisted of just one flavor note and was fairly bland. When our gracious waitress asked us how everything was, I responded in my usual brutally honest way that the taglioni was disappointing. She asked if we wanted to switch it out, but not wanting to make a fuss, we politely declined. A couple minutes later the manager arrived and profusely apologized and demanded that we substitute out the taglioni for their famous spaghetti. This is a true staple of a fantastic restaurant, where unadulterated customer satisfaction is paramount. They had no idea we were bloggers and still insisted on optimizing our experience, kudos Scarpetta.

The Spaghetti with tomato and basil is what vaulted Scarpetta aloft to its world renowned fame. They use some of the finest pasta imported from Italy and one can taste the difference. It was cooked to utter perfection al dente (firm, but not hard). It was thick substantial noodles, yet soft enough to twirl around your fork and tongue. These delicately firm noodles just feel so amazing to bite into. The sauce was nice, not overpowered by the tomato and contained some depth from the fresh basil. It is not a rich dish and is fairly simple on the taste spectrum, but it is just done right as a perfect plain spaghetti dish was meant to be.

To consummate the meal, we had the Coconut Panna Cotta with caramelized pineapple and guava “soup”. This was a fun dessert that made dining feel more like play. The underneath the “sweet and tart” soup was a deceptively thick custard, so when you dipped your spoon into it, you found yourself surprised at the resistance. It was definitely addictive as all the flavors harmoniously blended together into an ambrosial sugar rush. The tiny cookie (tuile) on top was simply divine.

Since one dessert is rarely enough we also ordered the Coffee Semifredo with hazelnuts, anise cream and lemon sorbet that was a brilliant treat. The hazelnut was at the forefront with a subdued cafecito taste entwined into it. The highlight of the dish was a ridiculously poignant lemon sorbet that will energize your face from its sheer flavor strength. I am not sure what goes on in that kitchen but it felt like the sorbet had some adderal or cocaine in it. I scooped up a bit to put on my teeth to see if I could get a lemon numbie but to no avail.

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Scarpetta provided a truly luscious and gratifying experience, draped in provocativeness. The service and presentation were splendorous, demonstrating that they will go above and beyond when it comes to making sure its customers are satiated and satisfied. We definitely were.

Ikura Sushi Lounge – A Diamond in the Raw

Ikura Sushi is Well Worth the Trip

Courtesy of Ikura Sushi

We discovered Ikura Sushi Lounge while perusing through the restaurants listed on Local Dines, a fabulous website that offers discounted gift certificates for some really good spots. It was a veritable joy to dine there. The restaurant feels like a modern, cozy yet upscale-ish living room. The ever-so-talented chef is in the back corner for all to admire, working up his unique and creative slants on sushi. Three out of the four dishes we had were worth ordering again and two of them were marvelous.

Kanikama Crunch @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Kanikama Crunch was legitimately incredible. It was comprised of a specialty house crab salad, Tobiko and Crunchy Flakes. The mix of the soft and crunchy consistencies dripping with sweet, yet spicy combo was superb. It is one of their best dishes and a must order.

Urmaki Mango @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Urmaki Mango Roll drew our attention because we freaking adore mango and the Shedonist’s Dominican nature implores her to order any sushi that comes with cilantro. This unique roll contained: Salmon, Ikura Shrimp, Avocado, Cilantro, Tobiko Mix, Glazed Mangos and Aji Amrillo Sauce. The roll was tasty, unique and the glazed mango was a beautiful touch.

Honey Moon @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Honey Moon Roll was really the only dish we did not love. It had Ikura Shrimp, Kani-kamaboko, Avocado, Cream Cheese, Shaved Roasted Coconut, Almonds, Walnut Dust, Scallions, Sonali Suce and Hachimitsu. The coconut, almond and walnut dust ingredients enticed us and it was good, but it did not blow our palates out of the water.

Tom-Atu Heat @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Tom-Atu Heat Roll was by far our favorite of the night. It was literally mouth-watering. This sublime roll is baked and contains Ikura Shrimp, Cream Cheese, Walnuts Dust, Eel Sauce and is topped with the amazing Kanikama Crunch appetizer. It is a triumphant roll that we will definitely drive down to Coral Gables to sample again.

The sushi is scrumptious, bountiful (read: large ass pieces) and there is an abundance of them on the plate. The place is small, but the waiter was always attentive as well as gracious. The prices are reasonable too, with most specialty rolls in the $15 range. It was a sheer delight Ikura and we shall be back again.

Miami Bridge’s Notte di Carnevale

Miami Bridge Hosts a Fantastic Notte de Carnavale at the JW Marriot Marquis

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In Miami, February is Gala month. There are galas for cancer, diabetes and any other major cause you can think of. There was one that really touched our hearts and it was the fabulous Notte di Carnevale party that was thrown to benefit Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services. For over two decades, this benevolent organization has run Dade County’s only 24-hour emergency shelter for at-risk youth providing emergency shelter, food and counseling. They strive to rescue children and teens from lives of victimization and crime, and provide them with structure in a stable and nurturing environment. Miami Bridge helps more than 700 youths every year, providing them with solutions, alternatives and real hope. We applaud their efforts and were eager to show our support.

 

The party was held at the rooftop of the Downtown J.W. Marriott Marquis with a whimsical Carnival of Venice theme. The decor was beautiful and the food was delicious. There was a delectable buffet which included a menagerie of succulent crustaceans, mini pad thais, pork and steak carving stations and scrumptious banana foster. We met a handful of sweet, fun, do-gooding, down-to-earth people. Guests enjoyed a night of dancing with an amazing soundtrack provided by DJ Lazaro. In addition to the silent auction, there was also some unique and festive entertainment on hand for the guests. There was a fortune teller, a caricature artist and an awesome booth where a 6-second video was shot and then turned into a really cute flip book. We had a great time making our video.

We really enjoyed supporting the cause and will definitely be adding it to our rotation of charities we love. Hope to see you there next year.

 

You’ll Be Addicted to Food Junkies on Wheels

Southern Cookin’ Done Right

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While the Deep South does so many things ridiculously wrong – confederate flags, incest, obesity, hygiene, literacy – when it comes to incredible cooking, they excel like SEC football. Southern Home style cooking is one of our favorite culinary genres. We all know the venerable Yardbird exquisitely serves it, but what if you desire a quick bite or do not want to spend over $50 chowing down on some appealing southern cuisine. Well, let us introduce you to the Food Junkies on Wheels, a delicious food truck that is here to satiate your deep fried southern hankerings. They have been slinging their addictive treats turning unsuspecting patrons into Food Junkies.

The truck was created by the brother and sister team of Hakeem and Michelle. They grew up in Richmond Heights (near Metro Zoo) and were enrolled by their mother Dawn into mandatory, in-house “culinary school” when they were only 5 years old. Dawn is one of those old school kitchen gurus who performs home cooking magic. They have taken her famous recipes and benevolently shared them with South Florida.

Their sexiest (and most favored) dish is Fried Chicken & Red Velvet Waffles. Take a moment and let that audacity sink in. It is a truly beautiful dish in both taste and appearance. The wings were skillfully fried so they were still moist and soft inside yet crispier than Colorado and Washington state students. The waffles are meant to be dipped into this angelic maple cream cheese sauce that captivates the taste buds.

 

Another one of their tasty offerings is Dawn’s Signature Sea Slaw. This elevation of the usual mundane coleslaw contains spiced up shrimp, crab, lime, pepper and sesame seeds. It is still sweet but with a nice tantalizing kick accompanying it. Chunks of crab and big ass shrimp are strewn across this harmonious balance of sweet and spicy.

Their Loaded Conch Balls are made with jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp and conch. It comes with what they call a Secret Hood Sauce, which was thousand island dressing with a little something extra, as well as a Classy Cocktail Sauce, ‘cuz you know the food truck industry is all about keepin’ it classy. These balls were crunchy perfection on the outside, yet soft and flavorful chunks of seafood and conch on the inside. Whether you want to admit out loud or not, you will definitely want these balls in your mouth.

 

 

We were induced into a severe state of “the ‘itis” after munching on the deliriously enrapturing Sweet Potato Pie that actually can make your nether regions kegel upon oral entry. It is insanely sweet but, oh my Lord, so freaking gratifying. We were bloated beyond belief but still managed to force feed ourselves half of this stellar pie.

After our experience with this truck we are definitely junkies now. The owners are sweet and put loads of Southern love and talent into their grub. We will be back very soon to try their Deep Fried Shrimp, 7-up Cake and everything else on their menu.

 

 

 

The Sprung Beer Festival Returns

A Playful Approach to Some Serious Craft Beer Tastings

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Sprung!, the free-spirited, sister festival of Grovetoberfest, will kick Spring into action with their craft beer festival on Saturday, March 8th. The unlimited beer tasting will feature over 150 Spring and Summer ales in the heart of Coconut Grove from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Peacock Park.

New Belgium, Founder’s, SweetWater, Green Flash, Sierra Nevada, Brooklyn Brewery, Kona, Magic Hat, Shiner, Shipyard, Harpoon, Blue Moon and many others will showcase their spring and summer offerings. Sprung! will also host a complete lineup of Florida beers from Schnebley, Cigar City, Tequesta Brewing and Florida Beer along with local breweries such as Funky Buddha, Wynwood Brewing, M.I.A, and Opus Ales. This lineup will include a complete list of ciders such as Crispin Cider, Magner’s and Woodchuck.

Beer enthusiasts will also be treated to a selection not available in South Florida, and in keeping with tradition, the homebrew section will showcase brews created by locals who are passionate about their beer. Sprung! will also bring back the Orange Pride Games Arena & Bar — a dedicated game section, which includes Corn Hole, Giant Jenga, Beer Pong, Mega Twister, Human Bowling and a few other surprises. In addition to Bougainvillea’s Live Music Stage, there will be plenty of vendors offering a wide range of food and the Gold Coast Beverage Distributor Culinary Experience, which will pair beer with the talents of some of South Florida’s favorite chefs.
“Sprung! is a true celebration of the craft beer lifestyle. Last year, we had over 4,700 people who were proud to say They Got Sprung! Much like Grovetoberfest, our staple event, this festival has become synonymous with the season. This pleases me to no end, because all I wanted to do was get South Florida involved in the craft beer revolution,” said Tony Albelo.

General Admission tickets are currently on sale for $40 at IgotSprung.com. The following tickets are also available: $70 Beer Socialite, which gives people access to the event at 3:00 p.m.; and $90 VIP, which is limited to 500 people. VIP ticket holders are given access to the event at 2:30 p.m., a meet and greet with the brewers, early tastings and access to the VIP lounge, which offers specialty beers, complimentary appetizers and air-conditioned bathrooms. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit  www.IgotSprung.com, or call (305) 461-2700.

Brickell’s Oceanaire: Sumptuously Sexy Seafood

A Charismatic, Caring and Talented Chef

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There are a plethora of exquisite dining options available in Miami with new venues popping up every month. So when we want to act like Gordos, besides scrumptious food and a comfortable ambiance, it is nice to find sincere and passionate chefs who are committed to the environment and sustainability. Chef Kareem Anguin of The Oceanairedefinitely fits that bill.

Though he moved to Miami when he was 12, you can see and taste the colorfully vivid Caribbean influence of his Jamaican roots. From “Shrimp’n’ Grits to “Steak & Cake,” Chef Anguin says he draws his inspiration from the foods he loves to eat. A huge advocate of sustainability, he will not serve fish that are out of season and chooses the restaurant’s daily seafood offerings personally. Such is his commitment to his craft, he has even travelled to Alaska to fish for salmon as a means to better understand the food he serves.

The only thing fresher than the fish, is the MENU. It’s changed twice a day, every day… yes, EVERY DAY!!! There are always new options on the menu and you can customize practically everything. We will highlight some of our favorites of the night.

 

The first dish, the jumbo lump crab cake, was a golden, savory, mound of crab heaven. While most crab cakes we have encountered contain loads of cake and a sparse amount of crab, this treat was just the opposite. Huge chunks of crab dominated this cake and was served with a nice mustard mayonnaise sauce.

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Eager to try everything on the menu we decided on the seafood mix grill, an orgy of magically delicious seafood served with dirty rice. The jumbo shrimp were grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor and a slight pleasurable kick. The juicy and moist scallops seduced every iota of our palates. For the fish, the chef served cobia, an expensive fish with a firm texture and fantastic flavor. These particular cobia were actually hatched at the UM Marine Biological center and then shipped to Panama to grow up in an ocean aquafarm. The cobia was not fatty yet so freaking flavorful. Crab-meat stuffed shrimp were the final piece of this succulent, seafood feast. It just might inspire us to stuff our turkeys with crabmeat this upcoming November.

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We also tried the Maine sea scallops a la blue crab Oscar. This incredible plate consisted of five juicy seared scallops with a slight crispy skin, doused with Bearnaise sauce with chunks of blue crab meat and grilled asparagus.

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Even though we were stuffed to the gills, we had to take the waiter up on his recommended dessert of warm spiced banana bread pudding served with vanilla ice cream and hot caramel sauce. This gargantuan treat was, in a word, magnificent. The banana taste was slightly subdued making the warm cake light yet potent. The dessert was quite addicting.

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We were very impressed by the stellar food, impeccable service, and refined yet comfy ambiance that The Oceanaire delivers. Chef Kareem Augin is cool, affable and cares deeply about his food and the Earth, which is clearly reflected in his offerings. We will definitely be back to try his famous Jerk Fish (pictured below)!

Looking for a great opportunity to try it out? Swing by on Valentines Day weekend for the incredible prix fixe meal that’s sure to please.

One thing is for sure… We shall see you soon, Chef Kareem!

JERK FISH

Loveinaire

 …and because I couldn’t seem to stop taking pix of this edible art, here are some more foodie images to enjoy.  :)

“Carnival of Venice” Fundraiser Gala

 Miami Bridge_Bridge to the Stars Gala EVite

15 Miami Bridge Gala-11

“Carnival of Venice” Fundraiser Gala to Help Hundreds of Homeless and Abused Children and Teenagers

Highly anticipated “Notte di Carnevale” event will benefit programs and outreach by Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services, Inc.

 

The enchantment and mystery of the masquerades and merriment of Venice, Italy will serve as the backdrop for an important fundraiser in support of South Florida’s abused, neglected and abandoned youth.

Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services, Inc., Miami-Dade County’s only 24-hour emergency shelter for children and teenagers in crisis ages 10 to 17, is proud to announce the countdown to its signature fundraiser, Bridge to the Stars, “Notte di Carnevale,” with special program emcee Lisa Petrillo of CBS Miami.  Chaired by Marlene Quintana, Labor and Employment Shareholder at GrayRobinson, current top-tier sponsors of the event include Coastal Construction, BenTrust Financial and the Always Believing Foundation, spearheaded by Monique Mosley.

Taking place Saturday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. on a rooftop terrace of the JW Marriott Marquis Miami hotel in downtown Miami (as well as the hotel’s NBA-approved indoor basketball court), hundreds are expected to attend the special fundraiser, including prominent community activists, civic and judicial  leaders.  With an enchanting theme inspired by the centuries-old Italian Carnival of Venice, the gala, hailed as one of the most unique of the season, will help bolster the outreach of Miami Bridge, which provides critical services to youth in great need (many of whom are homeless or runaways and living on the streets).

“We are anticipating another great edition of this spirited event and appreciate all of the hard work and time that has gone into its production,” said Mary Andrews, Executive Director, Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services, Inc.  “While it may be an evening of fun, it is even more important to note how significant this event has been and will continue to be, not only for Miami Bridge, but the hundreds of youth in crisis that we serve annually.”

In addition to whimsical “carnival-inspired” entertainment — as well as live music and delectable cuisine — guests will be able to enjoy a silent auction filled with big-ticket items.  A single reservation is $150.  Attire is Miami Chic. For more information on how to attend or sponsor the event — or support the Miami Bridge organization — contact Monique Bain, 305.636.3520, mbain@miamibridge.org, 2810 NW South River Drive, Miami, FL, 33125, and visit www.miamibridge.org.

“In times like these, we are reminded of the generosity and spirit of so many that make an event like this one not only extremely special, but possible,” added Andrews.  “We are grateful for the continued support of members of Miami Bridge.  Their dedication is a service to our organization, and, in turn, a great service to the community.”

About Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services

For nearly 30 years, the Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, Inc. not-for-profit organization has been operating out of Miami and Homestead, providing emergency shelter, food, counseling and family counseling for youth in need.  Acting as a catalyst for new beginnings, Miami Bridge works to rescue children and teens from lives of victimization and crime, and provides them with structure in a stable and nurturing environment.  Miami Bridge shelters more than 800 youth and counsels more than 550 families every year, providing them with solutions, alternatives and hope. For more information on Miami Bridge or to get involved, call 305-636-3520 or visitwww.miamibridge.org.

Jo Koy is Coming to Magic City Casino

Jo Koy (420x640)

Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, will be presenting stand-up comic Jo Koy on Saturday, January 18 at 8pm at the Stage 305 at Magic City Casino – 450 NW 37 Avenue in Miami, FL 33125.

Jo Koy is a stand-up comic originally from Las Vegas who performs both throughout the country and internationally. Koy’s comic style, inspired by family experiences, has propelled him to the top of his field. Koy makes regular appearances on E!’s “Chelsea Lately,” VH1’s “I Love” series, as well as “The Joy Behar Show,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “Last Call with Carson Daly.”

Tickets for the show are $40 and are available at www.magiccitycasino.com or by calling 305-460-6579. VIP Tables are available for $300 and include seating for four and a complimentary bottle of champagne. Attendees must be 21 and over.

The Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival, a free event, will also take place from 5pm to 10pm this evening, featuring 20 of South Florida’s most popular food trucks serving a range of gourmet specialties.

Magic City Casino offers free parking with Valet parking available as well.

For more information, visit www.magiccitycasino.com

Highway to Hops with Miami Brew Bus

First, we met in Coconut Grove at Lokal for a nice long ride to Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park, Florida. Next stop is M.I.A Brewing, and lastly at Wynwood Brewing.  Then, we finish off back at Lokal after having worked up a serious appetite from all the beers.

About the breweries on the tour, here’s a description from the Miami Brew Bus website:

FUNKY BUDDHA BREWERY

Founded in 2010, Funky Buddha Brewery began as a brewpub, lounge, and hookah bar in Boca Raton, Florida. Initially brewing on a small, 40-gallon system, the brewpub began creating truly unique culinary-inspired beers, reaching worldwide acclaim such as 27th best brewery in the world according to RateBeer! Three short years later Buddha opened its 20,000 sq ft production brewery in the heart of South Florida, focusing on the continued use of big, bold flavors. You can find their flagships beers Hop Gun IPA and Floridian Hefeweizen on tap at the brewery year-round, and if you’re lucky enough to try a limited release you certainly won’t forget it! No Crusts Peanut Butter & Jelly Brown Ale, Blueberry Cobbler Ale, and Passionfruit Berlinerweiss are a few of our favorites. Just sayin’!

M.I.A. BREWING CO.

A very special part of our tour brings you to M.I.A. Brewing where you will be able to witness a brewery being born! M.I.A. Brewing has begun construction and estimates a January 2014 opening. Although the brewery hasn’t become operational they’ve already made a name for themselves at beer festivals and special events with their flagships Domino Pilsner, Freestyle Wheat Pale Ale, Castaway Kolsche, and the M.I.A. IPA. Yes, there will be beer and yes, hardhats are required!

WYNWOOD BREWING CO.

Miami’s first production brewery recently opened in the heart of the Wynwood Arts District. What used to be a warehouse and manufacturing district, Wynwood is now home to one of the largest street art exhibits in the world. Following the theme of art in beer making it was extremely important for the founders of Wynwood Brewing to be located in this exceptional neighborhood. Brewed with Miami’s hot weather in mind, their flagship beers, Pop’s porter, La Rubia Blond Ale, and Wynwood IPA, are light bodied, and crisp, ah makes us wanna go to the beach!

 

Enjoy some of the images from our Miami Brew Bus experience. For more information, visit MiamiBrewBus.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne Reveals $2 Million Makeover

Featuring Renovated Wet Areas, Fitness Center and Debut of Contemporary Spa Menu With Vegan Services

MIAMI, FL - The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne reveals a $2 million makeover this season, further enhancing the tropical oasis destination spa.

Welcome to Miami’s Updated Destination Spa
Led by internationally recognized, Coral Gables design firm Gettys, the 20,000 square foot luxury spa welcomes guests to an updated arrival experience with a mosaic waterfall feature, modern gold fixtures and contemporary art displays. Wet areas, including Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room received the largest refresh incorporating a contrast of natural tones of custom mosaic murals, greeting sunlight in the new, expanded relaxation area. Salon and treatment rooms complement with a refresh of hues and furnishings.

Expanded Fitness Center with Innovative Classes
As a full service spa and wellness center, the fitness center expands to include reception area with private day lockers, all new state-of-the-art cardiovascular/weight equipment and a core/stretching action station. Monthly fitness calendar offers indoor and outdoor classes for both guests and local. On the nights of the Full Moon, guests can spin under the stars for an intense cardio workout or relax with yoga on the resort’s Grand Lawn with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop. Classes begin as the sun sets and the moon rises over the Atlantic Ocean, as the evening’s “Spin Stars” provide ice cold towels, refresh water and cool down spinners with spritzes of water. Prefer a morning workout? Sunrise Swim classes are offered every Tuesday and Thursday at the resort’s Adult Pool for all levels. $18 per person. Reservations required for all classes by calling (305) 365-4197.

New Contemporary Spa Menu features Vegan Nail Services
Enhancing the relaxation experience, Spa Director David Bremer debuts a contemporary new spa menu. Boasting the lush tropical surrounding, the menu caters to men, women and expectant mothers, with treatments such as the Signature Tropical Paradise Hydrating Wrap, Piña Colada Body Polisher and Island Escape package. Fresh signature nails services allow guests to create a unique and personalized experience from a menu of scents, ingredients and new vegan nail polish, making The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne the first spa in South Florida to offer the vegan product. Offering a variety of colors, wHet nail colors are not tested on animals and “three free” — void of the harmful chemicals, formaldehyde, toluene and DBP (dibutyl phthalate).

Locals may enjoy spa facility access with a spa treatment or fitness center when participating in a class. For those looking for a relaxing getaway, book the Miami resort’s Spa-Cation package including overnight accommodations and daily $100 spa credit. Rates starting from $299 USD. Call for availability. For reservations, contact (305) 365-4500 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/keybiscayne.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne is located at 455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne, FL 33149. To book an appointment or for additional information, contact (305) 365- 4197.

About The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, Miami is just minutes from the city’s cosmopolitan center, yet feels like a secluded island getaway with its lush tropical gardens, infinity ocean views and the only South Florida beach on Dr. Beach’s Top Ten Beaches in the U.S. list. Connected to Miami by a picturesque causeway, the luxury resort is a renowned spa destination, has four globally-inspired dining venues, which take guests on culinary journeys to Tuscany, Coastal Mexico and St. Tropez, and has the largest tennis center of any Ritz-Carlton in the world. The award-winning resort is recognized by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Robb Report, Forbes, Tennis magazine and Golf Digest as among the world’s best hotels. For additional information or reservations, call The Ritz-Carlton toll free at (800) 241-3333, the resort directly at (305) 365-4500, a travel professional or visit The Ritz-Carlton Web site at: www.ritzcarlton.com.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 84 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, an award that originated in 1987. Its purpose is to promote the awareness of quality excellence, recognize quality achievements of companies and publicize successful quality strategies. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company won the award in 1992 and 1999. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR).

Contact:
Tatiana Lora
Public Relations Manager
455 Grand Bay Drive
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Tel: (305) 365-4208
Fax: (305) 365-4509
Email: Email Contact

 

Check out these event photographs by Daniella Veras. See more images and reviews at HedonistShedonist.com 

Heineken Light Your Night – Miami, FL

Heineken® Light partnered with the award-winning Tecne Collective to bring Heineken “Light Your Night” to Art Basel Miami,  December 3 to December 7.  Heineken “Light Your Night” serves as a platform for local and international artists to interpret Heineken Light’s “Bounce” campaign through the use of light. The creations, by local and internationals artists, were showcased in a series of events including a monumental video mapping experience, kinetic light motion installations, and an interactive light show challenge.

Heineken Light Your Night featured video mapping and kinetic motion events designed by award-winning Tecne Collective, a group of technologists and artists featuring Gorka Cortazar (Madrid) and Rodrigo Arcaya (Miami), in collaboration with Wyzton Borrero Perez of Klang! (Barcelona). The internationally recognized Tecne Collective was awarded “Best Spatial Media Art” by the Media Architecture Biennale, and most recently received the Illumni Infinity Award and the International Association of Lighting Designers’ Award of Excellence, among other accolades.

“Heineken Light is excited to partner with renowned artists to bring a series of light-inspired events to Miami during one of the most significant art explosions of the year,” says Pattie Falch, Brand Director, Heineken Sponsorships.

2013 Heineken Light Art Basel Featured Events

Heineken Light Your Night Challenge at the Light Box at Goldman Warehouse
On Tuesday, December 3, five South Florida multi-media artists, Yuri Tuma, Juan Carlos Zaldivar, Clifton Childree, Brandon Opalka, and Kevin Arrow, will transform the Light Box at Goldman Warehouse into a maze of light installations. A panel of judges will select one of these talented artists as the winner of the Light Your Night Challenge and award them a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Amsterdam, home of Heineken.

Light :: Flow | Kinetic Motion Interactive Experience at Mana Wynwood
On Thursday, December 5, at Mana Wynwood, Heineken Light Your Night will showcase Light :: Flow. This interactive kinetic motion installation by Tecne Collective, portrays an abstract representation of human movement, through light and kinetic rhythm. Music by DARKSIDE (Nicolas Jaar & Dave Harrington) in the Sound Garden. Tickets at artbaselmanawynwood.com.

Hyperopticks :: Monumental Video Mapping | The Grand Finale + Official Basel Castle After Party
On Saturday, December 7, a monumental video mapping installation will transform the facade of Grand Central into an eight-minute show-stopping audiovisual experience. Tecne Collective’s Hyperopticks will explore the characteristics of contemporary art movements such as Op-Art, Art Cinetique, and Deconstructivism.  Show times: 11:00 p.m., 11:45 p.m., and 12:15 a.m.

For more information on Heineken Light Your Night events, please visit:
http://heinekenlightyournight.tumblr.com
Join the conversation: #HeinekenLight
Live Visual Feed on Instagram: @HeinekenLight

Heineken Light Your Night | Schedule of Events

Heineken Light Your Night Challenge
Heineken Light Your Night Challenge Exhibit
Light Box at Goldman Warehouse
Tuesday, December 3, 2013 | 8:30 p.m.
404 NW 26 Street | Miami, FL 33127

Light :: Flow | Kinetic Motion Interactive Experience
Mana Wynwood
Thursday, December 5, 2013 | 10:00 p.m.
318 NW 23 Street | Miami, FL 33132
Live Music by: DARKSIDE (Nicolas Jaar & Dave Harrington)

Hyperopticks :: Monumental Video Mapping | Grand Finale
Video Installations and Official Basel Castle After Party at Grand Central
Saturday, December 7, 2013 | 11:00 p.m. – 11:45 p.m. - 12:15 a.m.
679 N. Miami Avenue | Miami, FL 33136
Presented by: Heineken Light, Overthrow, Embrace & POPLIFE

About HEINEKEN USA
HEINEKEN USA Inc., the nation’s leading upscale beer importer, is a subsidiary of Heineken International BV, the world’s most international brewer. European brands imported into the U.S. include Heineken Lager, the world’s most international beer brand, Heineken Light, Amstel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Strongbow cider. HEINEKEN USA also imports the Dos Equis portfolio, Tecate portfolio, Sol, Indio, Carta Blanca, and Bohemia brands from Mexico. For a safe ride home, download the HEINEKEN USA-sponsored Taxi Magicâ„¢ application from your smartphone at taximagic.heineken.com.  Please visit:www.EnjoyHeinekenResponsibly.com.

Check out these event photographs by Daniella Veras. See more images, reviews and stories at HedonistShedonist.com 

Problem Kids Win Ultimate Miami Band 2013

Super Talented Problem Kids are the 2013 Ultimate Miami Band

Let us set the f*cking record straight: Miami has a fantastic local music scene! If you are unaware of this it is because your musical taste blows or you do not frequent awesome local music venues like PAX and The Stage to experience these kick-ass bands. TheProblem Kids or (PK) are an incredibly talented band that symphonically intertwines hip-hop, roots rock and Caribbean salsa into sick tunes. This past Thursday November 7th, PK ruled supreme at the Ultimate Miami Band Contest at Magic City Casino and took home the $5,000 prize. They played their new addictive single  “My Ami”, which has a great chance of becoming the official 305 Anthem. They also rocked out with superb renditions of Oasis’s “Wonderwall” and a new take on Kendrick Lamar’s “Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe” called ” Bitch Don’t Kill My HIGH”, which we believe is waaaaaay better than the original. Sorry, Lamar. PK had the whole venue bumping and sincerely deserved the title they took home, Congrats Kids!

Problem Kids jammed out against Cuban fusion band Barrioactivo, Latin Cranberries style Odas and ska/reggae fusion band Stop The Presses. After the four bands competed, the 2012 Ultimate Miami Band winner Magazine Society performed. The Gin Blossoms lit up the stage after with their classic hits and the Problem Kids were then crowned the victors. It was a great night of new and old musical talents blended into a cool competition that gave locals the chance to become aware of some very talented Miami bands. Good Luck Problem Kids.You talented ninos deserve to blow up.

Check out Problem Kid’s dope tunes with this clickable link. 

Easter Seals of South Florida Festival of Chefs 2013

 25th Annual festival of Chefs

When an event combines tasty cuisine and a cause we believe in, we will definitely be there with forks in hand. Easter Seals of South Florida, is a wonderful organization that “provides exceptional services to ensure that all children and adults with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.” They help kids with disabilities learn how to take care of themselves and secure jobs.

Easter Seals threw its 25th edition of Festival of the Chefs to help raise money and awareness for its Easter Seals South Florida’s Culinary Arts High School, a vocational training program for students ages 16 through 22 with autism and other disabilities. The grand event took place in Coral Gables and was tremendously fun. Celebrity chef Ingrid Hoffman hosted and some of the best restaurants and dessert shops from Miami served up their culinary treats. We will highlight our favorites below:

Chef Kareem Anguin of Oceanaire Seafood Room had the best dish of the night with his Smoked Scallops and BBQ Short Ribs. The scallops were cooked to perfection, thick cut and juicy enough that a bib should ALMOST have been required. The short ribs were perfectly balanced with sweetness and a slight kick. Bravo, Chef Kareem!

Chef Luis Lopez of City Hall Restaurant was our next favorite dish with his big supremely flavorful BBQ Brisket Sliders. The brisket was sweet, drenched in sauce and the bun perfectly complimented this delightful sandwich.

 

Ched Norman Van Aken of Tuyo Restaurant served up a savory dish of alliteration with his Brazilian Creamy Cracked Conch Chowder with saffron, coconut, orange and star anise. We really enjoyed this rich and creamy take on chowder.

Chef Jorge Montes of Roho Kitchen had a solid Short Rib Empanada with Truffled Aioli. This delicious baked concoction was quite a treat.

 

 

We had stuffed our faces soooooo much that we did not believe we had room for dessert… that is until we went upstairs and the mere whiff of the intoxicating dessert scents wafting through the air reset our appetites so we could squeeze some tasty sugar into our already bloated bellies.

Our two favorites were:

The Donut Divas enchanted us with deep fried red velvet oreos. We were stuffed to the freaking gills, but still managed to down three plates of this debaucherous confection.

 

The Nothing Bundt Cakes table was out of control with about 10 different versions of its decadent cakes that had the soft crisp texture of real cake but when one bites into the piece it is ridiculously juicy, wet and flavorful. Truly magnificent cakes!

 

The event was a smash with gallons of wine and champagne flowing, a silent auction with great prizes and good, down to earth and astute people that were a pleasure to meet and converse with. We can not wait until the 26th edition.

 

 

 

Scrumptious Burgerliscious Returns for a Third Bite

Very few events induce as much anticipated excitement as a nectarous burger orgy feast… well maybe a real orgy. We are still salivating as we type this review of Burgerliscious 3 (literally took a break to eat a burger while writing this). This bodacious burger bonanza returned on November 7th for the third straight year at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables. Guests were privy to devour appetizing burgers from over 20 participating Coral Gables restaurants and vote for their favorite.

The general admission ticket was $60, which got you 6 sliders and 2 Sam Adams beers or for $125 you could go VIP that got you unlimited everything, plus access to the VIP Jack Daniels bar and Seasons 52‘s deliriously divine dessert station. In addition to the literally tons of meat on hand, there were also handful of other highlights. The always Spasty (spicy and tasty) Pika Sauce was there sharing its tantalizing spread. The incredible Roc Kat Ice Cream was slinging caramel ice cream with Sam Adams Cherry Wheat beer soaked cherries.

We sincerely had some of the best cafecito of our lives when we discovered Gulejo, this socially conscious company sources its beans from Nicaragua and created a cold brew was so smooth and gratifying. One of our favorite 80’s cover bands Mad World Orchestra played great tunes while we stuffed our faces like gordisimos having our last Death Row meal.

Swine Southern Table and Bar won the People’s choice award with their deviantly succulent  brisket, short rib and pork shoulder patty with bacon schmear and smoked then grilled pork belly bacon.

Shake Shack‘s burger won the Judge’s award with its signature 100% all-natural Angus beef (hormones and antibiotics free) proprietary blend. Personally, we think the Shack makes a mediocre burger (patty) with a great potato bun. We were perplexed that it, once again, took home the crown.  Some Shake Shake fans claim they put crack in their burgers and were the best.

We will highlight our actual faves in no particular order:

Sushi Maki really went off the farm and served an inspiring & mouthwatering Kobe Beef patty with a juicy thick toothsome scallop on top, coupled with kimchee, spicy mayo and a toasted Hawaiian sweet bun that was, in a word, HEAVENLY and our personal fave.

Tarpon Bend had the most creative dish with its Farmhouse patty consisting of pork, cow, chicken and turkey topped with bacon, a fired egg and a Sam Adams derived spicy mayo. This burger should have won the “Most Animals Massacred to Feed Us” award.

Books & Books brought us an early Greek inspired Thanksgiving treat with an awesome turkey burger topped with pico de gallo, lemon dill feta and parmesan tzatiki sauce in a pita. This burger was so yummy we would agree to re-read the first excruciating 100 pages of 50 Shades of Grey again if it came with this dish.

Christy’s kept it simple and superb with its supremely juicy meat, delicious bun, caramelized onions, addictive bacon and a blue cheese topping that sets the world right again.

Burger festivals are some of the best events this world has to offer. We really do not appreciate having to wait a whole year for another stab. So event producers, please get your shit together and, like the amazeballs beer festivals we love, have one at least every six months. We promise people will show up twice a year to embrace burger gluttony.

 

Photos of Halloween on Lincoln Road – 10/31/13

Aahhh Halloween, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” The weather is breaking, the holidays are approaching, people are festive and costumes are super-duper fun. From the debaucherous slutty ones to the over the top grandiose ones, to the creative smile inducing ones, we adore costumes. The best spot to see all these lovely costumes is always Lincoln Road and this year was the most packed ever, with streets so crowded by 10:00 that traversing them was virtually impossible. We swung by after midnight and had a much easier time. It is funny to see thousands upon thousands of people still out partying on a Thursday night at 2:00 AM. God Bless Miami. If we ruled the world, we would do different themed Halloweens every month.

Passage to India Pop-up Restaurant Closing and Diwali Celebration at the Ritz-Carlton

On Sunday, Nov 3 as A Passage to India celebrated Diwali, India’s biggest and most important holiday, with delectable feasting, gift exchanges and fireworks to mark the occasion.

Different regions of India celebrate Diwali a bit differently, commemorating struggles of different gods, but all have as their common theme the triumph of good over evil

We enjoyed live performances, traditional clay lamps, firecrackers and complimentary henna application.  A Passage to India is a pop-up Indian restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove that was open for a limited time.

 

Photos of the Reel Horror Ball: AMC’s The Walking Dead at the Moore Building – 10/31/13

Reel Horror Ball Presented AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead’  brought the zombie apocalypse to Miami. This fifth installment of the Reel Horror Ball event series took place Oct. 31st at The Moore Building in the Design District. Party goers dressed to kill as “walkers” and other eerie characters at this ultimate zombie takeover experience. Throughout the evening, multiple DJs performed and revelers were be able to get a firsthand glimpse of actual props from the hit television show. In addition, there were various dance rooms for all those walking dead zombies looking for a place to dance the night away. Afrobeta preformed and lit it up.

 

 

 

Grovetoberfest 2013 at Peacock Park

Grovetoberfest is Always a Wild Pleasure

by Ari Kane.

Beer is fun! Beer drinkers are usually chill and when you put them all together at a festival, it almost always equates to a gay ole time. Miami Beer fests are great ways to break away from the uppity restaurant and club scene and get trashed with legit, down-to-earth, jovial people. Grovetoberfest returned to Coconut Grove for its third year in a row hosting over 200 great beers from across the world and over 7,000 attendees . In addition to kick ass beers and patrons, there was also the Kitchen Lab where attendees learned from award-winning chefs how to cook with beer and a Beer Tasting 101 hosted by FIU’s vaunted Beer Academy. The VIP section had a scrumptious rotation of food and special VIP beers.

While we were not fortunate (or degenerate) enough to taste every beer we will share our Top 11 (because top 10 is sooo played out), from order of “utter adulation” to “we like it.” :)

(Note to readers: we do not like bitter IPAs but prefer unique, exotic and flavorful beer):

1) Funky Buddha Brewery Blueberry Cobbler  Delicious and fucking creative, Funky Buddha is one of our fave brewers EVER.  You can find spots that host their exquisite beer on their website. The Blueberry Cobbler Ale is a copiously, blueberried glass of goodness, generously dosed with real vanilla beans, quality imported cinnamon, and — of course — whole fruit. Could not agree with their description more “A sip is akin to a bite of fresh baked blueberry pie.”

2)  Funky Buddha Brewery More Moro Blood Orange IPA These guys took the fabled and adored IPA and made it so much better. A moro is an American varietal of blood orange that has deep, crimson red flesh and a mellow citrus flavor. Their More Moro IPA piles on the “moro” for an overload of ripe, fresh blood orange flavor. Deeply citrusy and fruity, with a hop-forward nose, sticky malt body, and long grapefruit hop finish. Thank You, Funky Buddha.

3) Schofferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen This beer is just utterly superb, Schofferhofer grapefruit is a unique combination of sparkling wheat beer and refreshing tangy fruit juice. Mix of 50% Schofferhofer wheat beer and 50%  grapefruit juice. So damn good.

4) Cisco Brewers The Grey Lady This wheat beer is fermented with Belgian yeast and brewed with fresh fruit and spices. It is a unique ale that emits a complex, earthy nose and a soft, mid-palate maltiness with hints of tropical fruit. Dry and spicy, truly a great beer.

5) Terrapin Rye Pale Ale– Made with five varieties of hops and a generous amount of specialty malts, it offers a complex flavor and aroma that is both aggressive and well balanced – a rare find among beers that contains a great and unique taste.

6) Holy Mackerel Panic Attack-  So flavorful, A Belgian style ale with a subtle hint of spice clocking in at 10%. Eye popping flavor from a blend of Canadian malted barley, Goldings hops, and a unique flavorful Belgian yeast strain. Unfiltered, unpastuerized and with just a hint of spice this beer is meant to be savored slowly so as to enjoy the aroma as well as the taste. Vintage dated, excellent now but even finer with 2 years age.

7) Wild Blue Blueberry Lager-  Not quite a beer but soooo smooth and delicious. Wild Blue is brewed with a complex blend of two- and six-row barley malt, classic Aroma Hops from the Willamette Valley in the Pacific Northwest and German hops from the Hallertau region in Bavaria. It is blended with all-natural blueberry syrup made from real blueberries, giving the beer a balanced blueberry flavor and pleasant aroma.

8) Harpoon Brewery Pumpkin UFO-  We do love our pumpkins, beers, soup, coffee, ice cream….This beer is a blend of spices that really hits the palate. A malt combination provides a smooth body and slightly sweet flavor, which balances perfectly with the earthy notes derived from the pure pumpkin.

9) Old Chub Scottish Ale-  Brewed with loads of Scottish barley and malted grains and a tad of beech-wood smoked malt. Has a smokey flavor with hints of cocoa and coffee. Pretty damn good.

10) Ommegang Belgian Pale Ale– This libation is a smooth pale ale with notes of citrus and tropical fruit that is refreshing without blowing you away.

11) Inlet Brewing Co. Monk IPA-  More Belgian then Indian, this was a solid and smooth tasty concoction.

Grovetoberfest is always so much fun and we can not wait until The Sprung Spring Beer Festival in March.

See you there Beeroholics ;)

 

Burgerliscious Kick-Off Party at Tarpon Bend Raw Bar

Join us for a BURGERLISCIOUS kick-off party at the best Happy Hour spot on Miracle Mile next Friday, November 1 beginning at 4 PM at Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill.

Come unwind, immerse yourself in the atmosphere and take advantage of unbeatable #Burgerliscious! ticket promotions to experience the 3rd annual burger bonanza right here in the Gables on November 7!

We will be offering a special BOGO blitz – Buy ONE VIP at $125 and Get one FREE OR buy two General Admission tickets at $60 and get one free – then, enjoy a complimentary drink on US with purchase of ticket!

http://www.burgerliscious.com/

 

burger

An Evening of Art and Beauty at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove

On Thursday, October 17, both hotel and local guests celebrated an evening of beauty, glamour and relaxation, enlivening all of the senses at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove. Guests refreshed with spa teasers and learned beauty tips from the fresh additions to the new menu including: Carita Paris, Pino, Shankara, Moroccan Oil, NuFACE, Clarisonic, Eminence and makeup consultations by CHANEL, provided by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. As the sun set over the Miami skyline, guests enjoyed libations by VeeV Vodka, vibrant performances and a live culinary action display presented by the hotel’s executive culinary team.

 

Carlos Mencia at Magic City Casino

Carlos Mencia is still funny as shit

Despite legions of shitalkers saying otherwise, Carlos is a funny fuckin bastard. He had a hilarious set at a sold out Magic city Casino this past October 18th. He joked about sharks talking shit to the girl who got her arm bit off surfing and then went back into the water. Americans needing to staple their stomachs shut when they should just hire starving Africans to hit the food out of their hands before they eat it. As well as kids past 18 who do not leave their parents house when their dads just want to be able to get blown in their own kitchens. The show was really funny and we can not wait to see him again.

 

 

 

SAVE Dade’s Annual Halloween Ball at the MBCC

Save Dade’s annual Halloween Ball takes place every year the Saturday prior to Halloween. Formerly known as Hellrotika, the annual Halloween extravaganza is known for the extravagant costumes and has become a tradition of the Jet Set in the South Florida community.

“Whether you are gay, straight, lesbian, transgender or bisexual, this party  features an environment of inclusion and acceptance like no other event in South Florida, said Tony Lima, SAVE Dade’s executive director.  Nobody that takes Halloween seriously should miss this fundraiser for the efforts of Save Dade.

SAVE Dade is recognized as Miami-Dade County’s leading organization dedicated to protecting people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) against discrimination.

Vizcaya Halloween Sundowner at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcayans hosted their 27th annual Halloween Sundowner, the premier Halloween Party in Miami and highly anticipated annual fundraiser benefiting Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Guests enjoyed complimentary liquor, wine and beer, canapés, dancing under the stars to a live band and a DJ, costumes watching and the thrill of Vizcaya after dark. There was also a costume contest judged by reps from Miami New Times, Yelp and Brickell Magazine, and awards for an array of categories.

Unlike any other South Florida Halloween party, the Halloween Sundowner’s unique location at Vizcaya serves as the perfect spot for a spooky soiree! In an unparalleled fashion, the property is entirely transformed into a veritable haunted house including Vizcaya’s enormous outdoor veranda overlooking Biscayne Bay where the naughty and nice inevitably mingle while enjoying tasty libations until late into the night.

A special thanks goes out to the sponsors that include Brickell/Key Biscayne Magazine, Absolut, Malibu Rum, Chivas Regal, Dos Equis XX, Thierry’s Catering and Car2Go. Guests arriving in a Car2Go were able to park in a Free Preferred Parking Zone, the closest parking spots to the party.

The Vizcayans mission is to assist the Museum and Miami-Dade County in addressing the complex and costly needs of Vizcaya through its advocacy. The Vizcayans plays an important role in preserving Vizcaya and making the Museum accessible to all. For more than fifty years, The Vizcayans have raised funds for Vizcaya Museum and Gardens through special events, membership and donor programs, bequests, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Endowment Fund.

 

 

 

The Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball Dazzles Miami

Sexy & Scrumptious Dining in the Dark

The talented Chef Adrianne Calvo compiled quite a delectable feast for all the senses with her legendary Dining in the Dark at the Coral Gables Country Club this past September 20th 2013. She threw an Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball  to benefit the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event was adorned and saturated with magnificent ostentatiousness  and scrumptiousness.

Dining in the Dark consisted of a seven course meal where patrons consumed their meal blindfolded. Eating blind amplifies the experience because shutting off one sense accentuates the others and our brain does not prejudge the food based on what we see. Once the food is served, the first step is to touch the food. All dishes had very enticing and interesting textures. We were then instructed to smell the food, which at times was intoxicating in the best way. The mere whiff of the exquisite truffle oil induced a Niagara fall of saliva in our mouths. We have become quite addicted to truffles since this event. Finally, you may taste the food and be marveled by the complex flavors in your mouth. In between the courses, you delighted in sexy sounds like Enigma while enjoying the touch of your dining partner, and fully embarking on and appreciating the entire blind experience.

The event was unique, delightful and delectable. Her fried goat cheese and truffle oil ball were our amaurotic favorite. In addition, to the decadent dinner there was a whole slew of entertainment which included: contortionists, fire dancers, burlesque show (videos below),  live band, body painting, chandelier models, as well as sexy mermaids performing in the pool.

Videos:

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A Palatable Passage to India at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove

Scrumptious Indian Fare Popping Up for a Month at The Ritz Coconut Grove

While Miami has cranked out some sterling places to eat the past few years, we have heard complaints that one must travel to the foreign land of Broward County to get legit Indian food. Well, we are happy to to report that for the next month you can save yourself the trip and head to  The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami for Executive Chef Ramesh Kaduru’s A Passage to India at the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove.  The profoundly warm and charismatic Chef Ramesh delighted our senses and palates with his complex dishes literally bursting with assorted flavors. Our favorite dishes were the Malai Kofta Curry, potato and cheese dumplings bathed in cashew fondue; the Mughali Chicken, savory Tandoori chicken in a butter masala; the naan, and these addictive dessert dumplings called Gulab Jamun dipped in rose scented syrup. We are drooling as we type and reminisce.

The ambiance and decor are beautiful with paisley, brightly colored fabrics adorning the venue, complete with live Indian musicians and a dancer. The pop-up restaurant will serve delicious Indian cuisine from Oct. 3 through Nov. 3, from 6  to 10 p.m, it is only open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays. We strongly recommend you go and enjoy these delightful dishes before they are gone.  

 

 

Color Me Wrong at Color Mob 5K

We love unique events and were long overdue for some much-needed exercise so we thought we would check out the Color Mob 5K at Oleta River State Park this past Saturday August 17th. The Color Mob is basically a 5K combined with the Holi Festival (Indian Festival of Color).  So imagine this — as you are running your course, you come across multiple stations where people throw colored powder at you. Sounds like it could be a blast, right?  It was… an incredibly annoying blast. We were assured prior to the race that the powder washed off easily, which turned out to be an utter fucking lie. This powder was a c*nt and a half to wash off. First, we tried regular water while at the park and that didn’t work.  Then once we got home we tried soap, then a sugar scrub, then deep cleansing shampoo, then rubbing alcohol and finally astringent (which worked the best to clean up the last few traces).  Thank-the-Lord we were able to help scrub each other. Even then, it took well over an hour to get it all off.  We felt bad for other participants who were not lucky enough to have someone to scrub them.  On the bright side, it turned into a nice little beauty day complete with mani-pedis to literally clip and scrub the blue from under our nails.  

Video of one of the Color Stations

Before you participate in any events like this be sure to consider a few things:

  • Make sure that you do not wear anything you wouldn’t want stained.
  • Consider whether or not you’re okay with some of the powder coming into contact with your vehicle.
  • Contact past participants and make sure that the colors wash off easily.

So yeah, it sounds like a great idea in theory…. just make sure to plan accordingly. :)

Gabriel Iglesias Cracks up Magic City Casino

Gabriel Iglesias Cracks up Magic City Casino

Magic City Casino has turned into quite a stupendous spot, hosting fun, delectable and hilarious events. Gabriel Iglesias is on the road and brought his favorite stand-ups from “Stand-Up Revolution” with him. We caught up with Gabriel Iglesias (a.k.a. Fluffy not Fluffer) at the Stage 305 there and fell in love with this cake-fingering comedic treasure. The Stage 305 was set up with stadium seating and table seating accommodating 758 people. There was even Miami-esque VIP section with tables and bottle service right in front of the stage.

Gabriel spent the first half of the show delivering his uproariously funny, all new material. In the second half, of the show he fielded requests for some of his classics jokes, which were great as well. Note to comedy show patrons: Please do not scream out the comedian’s punch lines. The comedians hate it and you ruin the joke for everyone. Jokes can still be funny the second or third time around, even without audience participation.

In the past year, Magic City Casino has hosted some fun and reasonably priced events like the Ultimate Miami Food Truck Competition, the Ultimate Miami Comedian, Rob Schneider and now Gabriel Iglesias.  In the coming months, they will also host Blues Traveler, Carlos Mencia, Lynrd Skynrd, Kansas and  the 3-Day Ultimate Miami contests to crown the Ultimate Miami Band hosted by the Gin Blossoms, Ultimate Miami Bartender hosted by Tracy Morgan and Ultimate Miami Voice hosted by Expose.  We are looking forward to all these and many more to come.

 Make sure to keep Magic City Casino’s event page in your bookmarks.

Photographs from Slava’s Snow Show Preview and Tweet Seats

It’s Snowtime in Miami! Following sold-out engagements in Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Barcelona, Madrid, London, New York and a record-breaking run at the Ziff Ballet Opera House five years ago, the internationally acclaimedSlava’s Snowshow returns to Miami July 31– August 25.

A cross between Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group, this entertainment phenomenon takes audiences on an alluring 90-minute journey that is “pure magic…an evening of enchantment and fun!” (The Express) The breathtaking show created by Slava, the original Cirque du Soleil’s clown genius, is an awesome theatrical experience and a profoundly moving spectacle full of vibrant wondrous images, delightful comedy, enchanting music and snow — lots and lots of snow.

Click here to download the Slava Playbill

(from the Arsht Center Website)

 

Photographs of Bazaar Noir sponsored by Dos Equis at Grand Central

Love, Hope, Strength invites you to a night of culinary oddities, exotic beasts, and enigmatic strangers. Grand Central was transformed into a market inspired soiree guaranteed to test your wits and tempt your senses. Sip on complimentary Dos Equis as live music and unexpected encounters transport you to the Bazaar Noir.

We received these cute little passport cards that we took with us to every station to have punched.  It wasn’t that easy though. You had to try one of the “culinary oddities” or perform some task in order to get your card punched. Once all four corners of the card were punched out, then you were invited to the special secret room to view a performance.  Slits in a wall revealed a mirrored room with a dancing phoenix that seemed to perform JUST for you, like a pervy peep show. It was difficult to describe, so you’ll have to see for yourself… or ask me sometime.

The event was such a blast. We really enjoyed the musical stylings of The Candy Shop Boys. They played an eclectic and provoctive mix of muic and genres. I especially love how they cover tunes in new and interesting ways.

We were are all about partying for a purpose.  That’s why we are happy to find out that Love Hope Strength was behind all the the peculiar partying. Love Hope Strength (LHS) an international, music-centric cancer charity dedicated to saving lives, one concert at a time. Their mission is to save lives, right now, with the advances that have already been made in cancer care.

So, how does one become a marrow or blood stem cell donor?

It is a painless and simple procedure to get registered.  You fill out a quick form, have your cheek swabbed. The cells are taken and sent to a lab to be tested to determine your tissue type.  Your data is then entered into the National Marrow Donor Program registry. No worries. It’s anonymous.

Here is a video from MiamiTV recorded live at Bazaar Noir!

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Check out these fun images from the event.

Ultimate Miami Weekend 11/7/13

Ultimate Miami Weekend
Thursday, 11/07/2013 – 11/09/2013 09:00 pm – 12:00 am
Ultimate-MiamiMagic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue,
miami, Florida 33125
Webpage Link
Cost: $50

Ultimate Miami, LLC, creator of Miami’s talent competitions showcasing local rising stars in the fields of mixology, entertainment and culinary arts, will be hosting Ultimate Miami Weekend November 7 – November 9, where finalists will compete for a cash prize of $5,000, paired with performances by nationally known entertainers.

– Gin Blossoms headlining Ultimate Miami Band – November 7
– Tracy Morgan headlining Ultimate Miami Bartender – November 8
– Expose headlining Ultimate Miami Voice – November 9

All events will take place at Stage 305, Magic City Casino’s newest entertainment venue. Tickets are now available for all events at www.theultimatemiami.com or by calling 305-460-6579.

“We are very proud to present the second season of Ultimate Miami. We knew South Florida had talent, but the caliber that was showcased during the first year blew us away. We can’t wait to see what the second season will unveil,” said Scott Savin, Chief Operating Officer of Magic City Casino. “The audience is in for three amazing shows. Gin Blossoms, Tracy Morgan and Bret Michaels will each bring down the house! How often do you get to experience outstanding entertainment and support local artists in one evening? It’s a win-win on all fronts.”

Alternative rock band, Gin Blossoms, will headline the Ultimate Miami Band competition on Thursday, November 7 at 9pm. The band is known for upbeat hits including “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down” and “Found Out About You.” Their albums, New Miserable Experience and Congratulations I’m Sorry, have both reached platinum status.

Emmy nominated comedian, Tracy Morgan, will perform as part of the Ultimate Miami Bartender competition on Friday, November 8 at 8:30pm. Morgan’s accomplished career has included seven years as a cast member on NBC’s sketch-comedy series, “Saturday Night Live,” and on the award winning hit NBC series, “30 Rock.”

Pop-dance band Exposé, will be performing at the Ultimate Miami Voice competition on Saturday, November 9 at 9pm. The Miami based  band was the first group to have four top ten hits (“Point Of No Return,” “Come Go With Me,” “Exposed To Love” and “Seasons Change”) on  the Billboard Hot 100 charts from a debut album, Exposure. The pop trio’s smash single, “Point Of No Return,” played a key role in pioneering the freestyle music genre, still popular today

Tickets are now available for Ultimate Miami Weekend. General admission tickets are $50 per event and include a free drink. Ultimate Miami Bartender admission includes a sampling of contestants’ drinks. VIP tables for each night are $500 and include a complimentary bottle of champagne and seating for four. Ultimate Miami Weekend attendees must be 21 and over.

Photographs of the Pool Boy Pool Girl Competition at the Clevelander Marlins Stadium

This past weekend we had the privilege of attending an awesome competition that involved, twerking, swimsuits, beer pong, liquor and laughter otherwise referred to as just another day at The Clevelander at Marlins Park. We were asked to judge the Pool Boy and Pool Girl Competition and had an absolute blast. The Clevelander opened up a location at the Marlins Stadium, where fans can eat awesome food, drink, swim in the pool and get up close and personal with the sexy Marlin Energy Team. On any given day, you will experience in professional body painting, a kickass DJ and… oh ya,  a baseball game too. ;-)  The hopeful Pool Boys and Girls had to compete in aquatic baseball fetch, beer pong, interviews and a dance contest to win the crowns.  Allison and Corey pictured below in their victor robes earned the coveted titles. We loved this spot and will definitely be back to participate in more fun shenanigans.

Photographs of International Mango Festival at Fairchild Botanical Gardens

 

International Mango Festival at Fairchild

By Andreina Troconis
Photo credits: Daniella Veras and Andreina Troconis

Every July we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the International Mango Festival  at Fairchild Tropical Gardens.  Such a treat the King Mango is, that  despite the rain droves of  people showed up at this venue this past Sunday, July 14th, 2013 .  Mango Tree owners, mango connoisseurs and aficionados like my friend and I, were in for a very refreshing afternoon.

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Great photobomb, guy.

Mangoes from  several countries such as Thailand, Mexico,  India and Florida  to name a few  in representation, were available for tastings, cooking demonstrations,  and to take home and sinfully enjoy.  I had a lot of fun reading the many names of the Mangoes in display. Check out the attached pictures to see what I mean.  There were so many varieties, they need to give them people’s names.  Now you will understand when you hear someone saying , “Pass me a Tommy, will ya?” they’re actually referring to a mango.

Photo Credit: Andreina Troconis
Photo Credit: Andreina Troconis

I learned the Mango” is native to India, where apart from being a highly consumed  product, it represents a symbol of love and  given as a token of friendship. Another fun fact I found endearing is the legend that  Buddha sat under a mango tree  to  meditate, giving this fruit an air of enlightenment. For this same reason, it was an  inspiration in clothes and ornamentals. Did you know the famous paisley design was based on the mango? There is so much meaning behind this  deliciousness!

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“The Mango Doctors “ were there in situ,  to offer helpful tips and knowledge to the lines of people that took their home-grown mangoes, leaves, and if not, a couple of questions in mind to better understand this fruit’s care and growing process.  In a nutshell, I felt very zen – mind, body and heart aligned to the rhythm of the “mango.”

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What better way to show love to your community than attending, enjoying , and learning in an environment  such as Fairchild Tropical Gardens?  They have an amazing roster of events going on, so there is a niche for every taste.  If you go to  any upcoming shenanigans in the near future, remember there are tons of different things to see, so plan accordingly That’s how I met the Rambutan in a Mango Festival……

Here are the delicious Rambutans!
Here are the delicious Rambutans!

Enjoy the rest of these awesome images from the International Mango Festival at Fairchild Botanical Gardens!

 

 

 

International Mango Festival Commercial Grower’s Summit
For more Information and to Register,
please visit the Grower’s Summit Page

14th Annual Mango Brunch
For more Information and Reservations,
please visit the Mango Brunch Page

Download the 21st Annual International Mango Festival program!

 

 

Photographs of Boca Burger Battle

Despite the rain, there was an excellent showing at Boca’s Burger Battle. Check out the delectable images below… 

 

Boca Burger Battle’s 2013 Winners are:

Judge’s Pick for “Best Grill Master” went to:
1st place – Bite Gastrotruck
2nd place – Potions In Motion
3rd place – Shake Shack

Judge’s Pick for “Best Alternative Grill Master” went to:
1st place – 4th Generation

People’s Choice for “Best Boca Burger” went to:
1st place – Morton’s Steakhouse
2nd place – Rebel House
3rd place – Potions In Motion

Labor Days DVD Release Showcase

By Ari Kane

The stars of the award-winning web series “Labor Days” performed in a special comedy showcase celebrating the “Labor Days – Season One” DVD release.  “Labor Days” features some of South Florida’s funniest comedians and we saw them live at the Miami Improv for a special ONE NIGHT ONLY comedy showcase! We will highlight some of our favorite performers.

Lisa Corrao joked about how she recently moved back in to her parents house and now envies the homeless for their dignity. She also compared her vagina to a boat because some people are only friends with her because she has one and it requires thousands of dollars of maintenance and is only used like once a month.

Kirk Meadows who sounds like Mike Tyson’s adorable gay cousin, killed it too. He joked about how he calls his daughter “Misty” because she was a mistake and his daughter calls him “Pop” because that is what happened to the condom. He also joked about how McDonald’s gives their employees one premium parking spot to share but, on a McDonald’s salary, nobody can afford a car.

Lando Leyba was also superb telling a hilarious story about being pulled over by a bicycle cop and was afraid that if he got arrested he would have to ride the handle bars into the station. He also discussed how he got a BJ coupon from his wife for his birthday and how some fools wait, but he cashed that shit in right away.

Our friend, Forrest Shaw was poignantly funny (as usual) discussing how it would be great if the TV shows “Intervention” and “Hoarders” were combined so a crack head would move into a hoarder’s place and clean that travesty of a mess out in a couple weeks. Lets put our resourceful Crackheads to good use.

The show was a riotous laugh and we can’t wait to see all of these guys (and Lisa) again. Good Luck in La-La-Land Forrest.  Just remember, no matter what the casting guy tells you, you do not have to toss salad to land a gig.

Featuring:
John Wynn (StandupNBC.com, Official Miami Dolphins Comedian)

Courtesy of Miami Improv
Courtesy of Miami Improv

Forrest Shaw (Ultimate Miami Comedian, Comedy Central)

Courtesy of Forrest Shaw
Courtesy of Forrest Shaw

Lisa Corrao (Talk Soup, Nick Mom)

Lisa Corrao
Courtesty of Miami Improv

Lando Leyba (2012 Florida’s Funniest Comedian)

Courtesy of Lando Leyba
Courtesy of Lando Leyba

“Brother Freddy” Stebbins (Travel Channel, Universal Studios)

Freddy Stebbins
Courtesy of Miami Improv

Kirk Meadows (Walgreen’s)

Courtesty of Kirk Meadows
Courtesy of Kirk Meadows

 

“Labor Days” has been featured in The Huffington Post, Miami New Times, and the Sun-Sentinel, and most recently won top honors for “Best Achievement in Comedy”, “Best Ensemble Cast”, “Best Comedy Writing”, and “Best Actor – Forrest Shaw” at the 2013 Los Angeles Web Fest.  This was also Forrest Shaw’s final Florida performance before moving to Los Angeles!

 

About Labor Days

labor-daysLabor Days is a comedy series that follows the misadventures of the worst day labor crew in town.  In a stroke of monumental bad luck (usually reserved for tv shows), John loses his job, his fiancee’, and his car.  Depressed and desperate for money, he decides to join a day labor crew. John soon discovers that working with this wacky crew is far from normal as they tackle the whims of crazy and demanding clients. From cleaning up after a hoarder to sewing campaign t-shirts for an anti-immigration politician, these goofballs will do anything for a buck.  This crew is chasing the American Dream one day job at a time.

Labor Days recently screened at the Independent Film Quarterly film festival in Los Angeles and was also accepted into the 2013 Hollyweb Festival.

Labor Days is created by John Wynn and written by Wynn and Forrest Shaw. The series stars John Wynn, Forrest Shaw, Kirk Meadows, Orlando Leyba, and Lisa Corrao.

Labor Days recently won awards at the 2013 LA Webfest for Outstanding Achievements – Comedy Writing and Comedy Web Series.

Check out some of the episodes at LaborDays.tv

Photographs of ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night

 

AMIGOS FOR KIDS HOSTED SOLD OUT ING MIAMI CELEBRITY DOMINO NIGHT

Amigos For Kids, the Miami-based nonprofit organization that aims to prevent child abuse and neglect by valuing children, strengthening families and educating communities, hosted its signature annual fundraiser, ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night on the evening of Sat., June 15 in Miami, Fla. More than 2,000 guests took part in the sold-out event, celebrated by many as “Miami’s most popular fundraiser.” “Amigos For Kids is grateful to have celebrated one of our more highly successful ING Miami Celebrity Domino Nights, and we want to offer a special thank you to corporate sponsors ING U.S., Bacardi USA, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and all other sponsors who made this evening possible,” said Rosa Maria Plasencia, president and CEO of Amigos For Kids. “This year we exceeded our fundraising goals, with almost one hundred thousand dollars more than last year, and it was thanks to the countless AMIGOS that believe in our mission and the work that we do in the South Florida community. We are happy to have shared such a great evening with our corporate, media and restaurant sponsors, celebrities, community leaders, our hard-working staff, and every person who attended the event.” The evening featured celebrity domino players, bar courtesy of presenting sponsor, Bacardí USA, and an exciting silent auction featuring the original artwork for this year’s painting by Carlos Navarro, “Conga y Domino.”  Guests also enjoyed a live performance by one of Miami’s hottest bands “The Culture”, as well as with the electrifying rhythms of DJ Irie, of the Miami Heat.

Using the “Bonfyre” app, attendees were able to share photos, post comments and interact with other guests during the event. More than 100 celebrities walked the Orange Carpet alongside some of the celebrity hosts, which served to highlight and support the importance of the organization’s mission leading up to and during the event. Celebrity hosts in attendance included, Latin diva Charytin; Real Housewives of Miami Ana Quincoces; television news anchors Alina Mayo Azze of Univision 23; telenovela stars Juan Soler and Maki Soler;  “El Gordo y La Flaca’s” Lili Estefan; and music icon Emilio Estefan Jr., longtime supporter of the organization. During ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night, guests were treated to an array of local flavors and “dinner-by-the-bite” provided by some of Miami’s most popular restaurants and chefs, including Catharsis Restaurant and Lounge; Klass, Garcia Sausages and Belle Baking by Sunshine Promotions; Jungle Island; Sushi Maki; Mena Catering; Pasta Factory; Papa John’s Pizza; Versailles; Farm Stores; Goya Foods; Tuyo Restaurant; Elite Cake Creations; Paellas R Us; Baptist Health South Florida; Café 1909; Crazy Fork Restaurant; Café Pilón; and Los Ranchos Steak House.

ING U.S., in its ninth consecutive year as title sponsor, and Bacardi were presented with a special edition painting created by renowned Miami Pop Artist, Carlos Navarro that characterized all 11 years of Miami Celebrity Domino Night. Rhonda Mims, president of the ING Foundation and head of the Office of Corporate Responsibility, and Maggie Gonzalez, Corporate Sponsorships & Events coordinator, from Bacardi accepted the commemorative gifts on behalf of their organizations. “The energy and excitement at this year’s ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night was fantastic,” said Rhonda Mims, president of the ING Foundation and Head of Office of Corporate Responsibility ING U.S. “The success of the event is a tribute to the Miami community and the Amigos For Kids organization. Miami should be commended for the tremendous outpouring of support for this event, and in turn, the children served by the Amigos For Kids programs.” First year event platinum sponsor, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. joined ING U.S., Bacardi and celebrity hosts on stage as the Amigos For Kids Board of Directors expressed their thanks to all major sponsors, including gold sponsors, Academica, Baptist Health South Florida, Greenberg Traurig, Macy’s and Walmart; Entertainment sponsor, Dra. Maribel Santa Cruz, a recurring sponsor of the event, made it possible for guests to enjoy hours of continuous music and dancing. Proceeds from the event make it possible for Amigos to provide diverse services to children and families throughout the year. Some of these services include an after-school program at Jose Martí Park; annual back-to-school and holiday toy drives; and its year-round child abuse awareness and prevention efforts, its There’s No Excuse For Child Abuse!  campaign, and the “Amigos Strengthens Families & Communities Nurturing Parent” program.

Left to Right- Christopher Kaplan, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Jorge A. Plasencia, CEO of República and Co-founder/Chairman Emeritus, Amigos For Kids; Maggie Gonzalez, Corporate Sponsorships and Events Coordinator; Carlos Navarro, artist; Rosa Maria Plasencia, President and CEO of Amigos For Kids; Rhonda Mims, President of the ING Foundation and Head of Office of Corporate Responsibility ING U.S.; Pedro Capó, Chief Operating Officer of El Dorado Furniture and Chairman of Amigos For Kids.
Left to Right- Christopher Kaplan, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; Jorge A. Plasencia, CEO of República and Co-founder/Chairman Emeritus, Amigos For Kids; Maggie Gonzalez, Corporate Sponsorships and Events Coordinator; Carlos Navarro, artist; Rosa Maria Plasencia, President and CEO of Amigos For Kids; Rhonda Mims, President of the ING Foundation and Head of Office of Corporate Responsibility ING U.S.; Pedro Capó, Chief Operating Officer of El Dorado Furniture and Chairman of Amigos For Kids.

 

DJ Irie on the turntables.
DJ Irie on the turntables.

 

Charytin, Emilio Estefan and Lili Estefan walk the Orange Carpet.
Charytin, Emilio Estefan and Lili Estefan walk the Orange Carpet.

 

Barcardi-sponsored bar.
Barcardi Sponsored bar.

 

Telenovela stars Juan Soler and Maki Soler
Telenovela stars Juan Soler and Maki Soler

Photographs from Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana Award Ceremony at Mia Cucina 5/15/2013

Italian cuisine has always been an important tool for the promotion of Italy and has effectively promoted not only Italian products but also the Italian economy and culture the world over. Italian cuisine is appreciated by Americans and local restaurants serving it are often preferred destinations for a fine dining experience. Thus restaurants have a significant role to play in this promotional exercise and thus it is required that those serving authentic Italian cuisine are recognized.

It is with this purpose that Unioncamere and Assocamerestero in collaboration with Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi and with the support of Istituto Nazionale Ricerche turistiche – ISNART have constituted the certification “Ospitalità Italiana – Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo” – a seal of quality, to be conferred on Italian restaurants around the world.

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast (IACCSE) collaborated with the organizers in the selection of local restaurants in South Florida serving authentic Italian cuisine, for the certification and seeking participation of those eligible for the “Premio Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo”, Italian restaurants in the world award 2010, which is conferred on the best Italian restaurant annually.

The ceremony

Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Claudio Bisogniero, has chosen to attend the Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana award ceremony on May 8th as his first meeting during his stay in Miami.

H.E. Bisogniero has in fact consigned the seals, together with Hon. Adolfo Barattolo, Consul General of Italy in Miami, to the eleven selected restaurants in Miami at the Mia Cucina Showroom in Coral Gables.

The evening has been a great success, the winners have received their awards along with six restaurants that have been confirmed for the second year in a row. Over 100 guests have attended the ceremony followed by a rich tasting of Italian food and beverages kindly offered by Cibo Wine Bar, deiFrescobaldi, La Suiza Bakery, Salumeria 104, TiramesU, Top Wines Import – La Cacciatora.

2012 – 2013 Winners:

  1. Bellini Italian Bistro
  2. Cibo Wine Bar
  3. deiFrescobaldi
  4. Escopazzo
  5. Il Bolognese
  6. La Locanda
  7. Locanda Sibilla
  8. Quattro – Gastronomia Italiana
  9. Salumeria 104
  10. Sardinia
  11. Sorrisi

 

Photographs from Aqua Girl 2013

Fourteen Years Strong… an amazing week… a great cause.

Aqua Girl® traces its beginnings to the year 1999. That year, Alison Burgos and NYC’s legendary women’s producer, Shescape, gathered a committee of like-minded women from around South Florida to produce an exciting one-night event to benefit breast cancer. The event, Sweet Charity, was an extraordinary dance event bringing together over 800 women and raising over $15,000 for two local breast cancer organizations, Cancer Link and Gilda’s Club.

In 2000, Sweet Charity grew into an entire weekend of events and Aqua Girl® was born. The goal was to create a dynamic national fundraising weekend celebrating women and the issues that affect them. Women descended on Miami from all over the world and the first year of this spectacular weekend of events was a huge success.

We can’t believe how time flies. Now in its fourteenth fabulous year, Aqua Girl® continues to attract women from all corners of the country, the Americas and around the globe. The week continues to grow with an ever-expanding variety of events that enhance its appeal and have created what is now one of the hottest women’s festivals in the country.

At Aqua Girl® there is something for everyone. We have dance parties, live music, pool parties, a dine-out event, a VIP reception, celebrity meet-and-greets, and so much more. Having so much fun never did so much good.

As the largest charity women’s week in the country, your participation in Aqua Girl® contributes to a very good cause. In fact, 100% of the proceeds from Aqua Girl® benefit the Aqua Foundation for Women, a not-for-profit foundation whose primary mission is to serve as the funding catalyst for lesbian, bisexual, and transgender wellness and equality in South Florida through grants, scholarships, and initiatives.

Monies raised during the Foundation’s signature week, as well as through individual and corporate donations, go directly to educate, empower and foster the lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women’s communities throughout South Florida.

Over the past eight years the AFW has giving out over $400,000 in grants and scholarships while empowering hundreds of women to be engaged in our community.

Aqua Girl® 2013 Steering Committee

Alison Burgos, Founder and Co-Chair
Brittany Clay, Co-Chair

Aqua Foundation for Women, Staff

Robin Schwartz, Executive Director
Elsa Roberts, Program Director
Arnel San Pedro, Director of Bar Production
Derryk Bellizia, Bar Production Coordinator
David Jirka, Bar Production Coordinator

Contact:
For information on Aqua Girl® including media information, or performing at Aqua Girl®, please contact Robin Schwartz, Executive Director of Aqua Foundation for Women.

For information on becoming a sponsor or for more about the Aqua foundation for Women, please contact Robin Schwartz, Executive Director of Aqua Foundation for Women.

Aqua Foundation for Women
4500 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 340
Miami, FL 33137
305.576.AQUA (2782)
email –  website

 

 

Photographs of Ultimate Miami Dessert Competition featuring Rob Schneider at Magic City Casino 05/04/2013

ULTIMATE MIAMI DESSERT COMPETITION FEATURES ROB SCHNEIDER

Rob Schneider performed at the Ultimate Miami Dessert competition where finalists will competed for a cash prize of $5,000 and the title of Ultimate Miami Dessert on Saturday, May 4  at Stage 305 at Magic City Casino – 450 NW 37 Avenue in Miami, FL 33125.

The panel of judges at the Ultimate Miami Dessert competition included Where Magazine South Florida editor, Aurora Rodriguez, and radio personality and co-host of 610AM WIOD’s South Florida’s First News, Manny Munoz.

For more information on and other event details, visit www.theultimatemiami.com or call 305-631-4536.

 

Shelley-Frievalt

Ultimate Miami Dessert 2013 - Shelley Frievalt

 

Photographs of Ultimate Miami Comedian featuring Jon Lovitz at Magic City Casino 05/03/2013

Miami’s Ultimate Comedian Forrest Shaw Crowned

Emmy nominated comedian, Jon Lovitz, performed at the Ultimate Miami Comedian competition where finalists competed for a cash prize of $5,000 and the title of the Ultimate Miami Comedian.  The event took place on Friday, May 3 at 9pm at  Stage 305 at Magic City Casino.  The panel of judges at the Ultimate Miami Comedian included Where Magazine South Florida editor, Aurora Rodriguez and radio personality and co-host of 610AM WIOD’s South Florida’s First News, Manny Munoz.

Forrest Shaw killed it, he was absolutely hilarious, joking about the onerous cost of organic food ( Do I want the $2 poisoned grapes or the $20 non lethal grapes….) and how his cock looks now compared to 20 years ago.  He earned the cash he took home that night without having to resort to sexual favors. This heralded local comic who has toured the country opening for the deliriously funny Jim Jefferies will be moving to LA and will be sorely missed. We have a feeling we will see this funny bastard in the national spotlight quite soon. Good Luck Forrest.

Forrest-Shaw

Ultimate Miami Comedian 2013 - Forrest Shaw

 

Photographs from UnderGROUND Miami Annual Fundraiser to Benefit the Fertile Earth Foundation

On Tuesday, April 30th, 2013, Fertile Earth Foundation (FEF), a Florida based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, best known for its composting and waste reduction initiatives, along with The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce hosted their 2nd Annual “Underground Miami” fundraising event  to benefit Fertile Earth. Fresh off their success with the Ladies of Manure 2013 Calendar, the ladies of FEF will got us to rethink all our waste with specially commissioned art installation made with — you guessed it — manure! “We want our community to remember that it is not waste until we waste it. We love doing things with a special twist. This will certainly be a night to remember”, said Lanette Sobel, FEF’s co-founder and Executive Director.

Fertile Earth Foundation’s invasive species dinner featured the following local celebrity chefs:

  • Julie Frans, Essensia Restaurant
  • Todd Erickson, Haven Restaurant & Lounge
  • Kris Wessel, Florida Cookery & “Chopped” Champion
  • Chef Amber Antonelli, The Naked Bite

Tasty critters on the menu include Lionfish, Wild Boar, Python and Snakehead Fish.

Photographs from Brew at the Zoo 05/04/2013

Miami’s largest beer festival returned last weekend, showcasing 100-plus local, international, and craft beers, live national acts, interactive games, animals, food and fun! New Times Brew at the Zoo featured national touring acts like Naughty by Nature, with hits like O.P.P and Hip Hop Hooray, performed live as well as Uncle Luke live on stage. 

 

Photographs and Review of Cochon 555 at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami

 

The EDGE Steak Bar Prevails at Cochon 555

 

PrincePorc

If you are a swine lover, a bad Jew or just Cuban, you are going to feel like a jackass for missing Cochon 555 this past Sunday April 21st. Cochon 555 returned to Miami a second year in its five year history at the Four Seasons in Brickell. The traveling tour  gathers five chefs, five pigs, and five wineries at ten cities throughout the country promoting sustainable farming of heritage breed pigs. This gourmet exquisite tasting featured five of Miami’s most talented chefs in an epic pork cook off competition.  Each chef had to prepare dishes using an entire 200 pound heritage-pig from snout-to-tail. Both judges and attendees voted for their favorite. The competing chefs were: EDGE Steak & Bar  Aaron Brooks, Timon Balloo from Sugarcane, Jeffrey McInnis from the gem Yardbird, David Thomas of the trendy SLS’s The Bazaar and Cesar Zapata of The Federal.  Even if you’ve never been a fan of “the other white meat” with a line-up like this, this would have been the place to try it.

The well-deserving Chef Aaron Brooks of EDGE Steak & Bar destroyed the competition and took home the trophy. In addition, guests were treated to wines from five boutique family-owned wineries including Elk Cove Vineyards, Bethel Heights,Hamacher, Montinore, and Alloro. As well as tastings from Vibrant Rioja, Anchor Brewing, Eminent Domaine, Crispin Cider and the delectable Kerrygold Cheese. Their Dubliner Cheese with Irishstout and Cashel Blue Cheese were both magnificent.

Its refreshing to attend a food competition where the judges have sophisticated palates that actually concur with our own. All five chefs had awesome food but only EDGE had zero misses. Everything they served was stupendous and earned first place by a mile. Besides the food being marvelous, they were fully stocked with a full sampling of all dishes the entire night. Other teams were incessantly missing dishes and racing to get them out, some never to be restocked, to our disappointment.

Winning platterSince EDGE was beyond sensational we are going to highlight every glorious dish they graciously served up. They started with a head cheese pastelito. The pastry was the perfect balance of salty meat and sweetness. The highlight was a deliriously addictive kielbasa that was easily, the best dish of the night. The kielbasa was served on a skewer with a cube of pink lady apples, smoked maple syrup and mustard. A porchetta sandwich with shaved foot, pickles and habanero jelly was solid, as well. Next up, was a mix of clam & pork with roasted garlic, three chilis and coconut. The way all the tastes intertwined in a savory eye-opening fashion was heavenly. There was a scrumptious smoked pork rib chili with blue cheese and fried tortillas. For dessert, an appetizing hot chocolate bacon brownie with chocolate ice cream and piggy crumbs. Kudos to Chef Aaron Brooks and his team. Flawless Victory!

We adore the Yardbird. It’s one of our favorite spots. We thought its addictive corn dog (cornmeal crusted head cheese pate with adorable tiny tubes of pork rendered dijonnaise) was the second best dish of the night. The cheese and relish stuffed mortadella dog was quite tasty, as well. They were our second favorite pork outlet.

The Bazaar by far had the most inventive dishes but only two really stood out — The butifarra fabada (Spanish style sausage, cannellini beans and cilantro) and their oaxacan chocolate, smoked lard and salt chocolate bars. They were quite creative with the bourbon and bacon cotton candy and dragon’s breath pork rinds.

Sugarcane had a scrumptious dish with its sticky rice wrapped in lotus (char Sui loin, soy marinated bacon and homemade Chinese sausage). We unfortunately never got to try their Vietnamese bun with lemongrass and tea smoked pig butt, steamed pork meatball and chili pig ear but we hear it kicked major pig ass.

The Federal also had some great dishes with its Chicago hotdog (mortadella mousse, tomato jalapeño relish and spicy mustard) as well as their cracker jacks (lard popped popcorn, salty whiskey caramel, pork skin, peanuts, cocoa nibs and chiplote).

The fest was ridiculously fun. Phenomenal food, drinks and cool people all out for a great cause. Your sexy Shedonist was blowing nitrogen smoke with Deco Drive’s Louis Aguirre and Maria the Foodaholic. There was a piggy photo booth, a cocktail competition, a tartare bar manned by Todd Erickson of Haven Lounge (one of our favorite spots in Miami), a pig was butchered and auctioned off and even a game of “Pin the tail on the Piggy.” Chef Brooks will have a chance to compete against the nine other winners at the Cochon Championship in Aspen. We probably will not be able to make it there to show our support, but based on his stellar showing he has a great shot at taking home the golden pig.

 

 

 

Review of 2013 South Beach Comedy Festival

South Beach Comedy Festival 2013 was a Riot

As seen on on Hedonist/Shedonist

Besides intense, euphoric, mind-numbing orgasms, laughter is most likely humanity’s favorite activity. We had the distinct pleasure of attending the South Beach Comedy Fest this past week and absolutely adored it. The event, hosted by Comedy Central, is in its eighth magical year and is a veritable treat for South Beach. Continue reading “Review of 2013 South Beach Comedy Festival”

Photographs from Inaugural Dishcrawl Miami

The First Ever Miami Dishcrawl Was A Blast

Who doesn’t love a pub crawl? With the exception of recovering alcoholics, mormons, fanatical Muslims, or otherwise lame people– Everyone loves a fucking pub crawl. That’s why we were elated at the notion of a Dishcrawl, a group of foodies crawling to multiple restaurants to pound some damn good food. Dishcrawl made it’s Miami debut, Wednesday, April 17th where more then 30 guests bounced around Bickell sampling it’s fares.

This time we crawled through Brickell visting EDGE Steak and Bar, Vapiano, OTC (Over the Counter) and The Hoxton.

Check out our full review at www.HedonistShedonist.com

Photographs of Fabulous Miami Monthly Multichamber Event @ MPP Brickell Restaurant – April 3

Fabulous Miami Monthly Multichamber Event @ MPP Brickell Restaurant – April 3

The Chambers of Argentina, Camacol, Coconut Grove, Colombia, Chile, Greater Doral, Downtown Miami & Brickell, Ecuador, Haiti, Honduras, Junior Chamber International, Medley,Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Sweetwater, along with Brickell Rotary Club, celebrate the Monthly Multichamber of Commerce networking event. Mix and mingle with local professionals, promote your business, share your ideas, expand your network and have fun!

 

Photographs of Spoken Soul Festival & Brunch

Spoken Soul Festival is three days of philanthropy, showcase, and support. The main SWAN Spoken Soul Showcase Vol. 6 celebrates SWAN DAY 2013.

Support Women Arts NOW! Winner of Miami New Time’s “Best of Miami” Best Event to Meet Intelligent Women, is featured some of the most talented women artists of South Florida. This free event showcased twelve women artists inside the historic Gibson Miami Showroom. For more information, check out: www.spokensoulfestival.com


Spoken Soul Festival
Gibson Miami Showroom
2751 North Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33127
www.spokensoulfestival.com

 

Photographs of The Big Bliss at the Center of Grace

So many times we forget that unless we take care of ourselves, we can’t fully help anyone else.  Enter The Big Bliss —  a spiritual spa day that will give you access to more peace, balance, and bliss. Join Hay House Author, Jennifer Grace, and her Dream Team of Wisdom Professors and Wellness Wizards who will work their magic to deliver you a day of rejuvenation and retreat.

Day/Weekend Passes all included a delicious Raw Foods Lunch, Gentle Movement Classes, Healing Sessions, Complimentary Massage, and Transformative Workshops such as:

  • Yoga Journaling
  • Healing Your Soul Workshop
  • Psychic Readings
  • Sound Healings
  • Guided Meditations
  • Self Discovery Workshops
  • Manifesting Ceremonies
  • Compassionate Communication Workshop
  • Liberation Breathwork
  • Energy Medicine and more!

Adventures of the Foodaholic’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration at NoVe Kitchen & Bar

If you are looking for a verified, solid restaurant to devour some complimentary cuisine and drinks, do we have a marvelous tip for you! Find a food bloggers party and get your freeloading-ass on that coveted guest list!

We had the privilege of attending Maria, The Foodaholic’s, First Blogiversary celebration for Adventures of the Foodaholic at NoVe Kitchen and Bar on March 13th. Maria’s blog, ”Adventures of the Foodaholic”,  is a joy to peruse, loads of real informative reviews, solid tips and upcoming not-to-be-missed events.  One can sense the sincere passion she infuses in her eloquent, saliva-inducing prose. Sweet, vivacious and funny, Maria exudes a fabulous vibe. The restaurant put on quite a culinary show. Continue reading “Adventures of the Foodaholic’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration at NoVe Kitchen & Bar”

Photographs of Sprung! Spring Beer Festival 3/9/2013

Beer festivals are a lot like open-minded college girls & South Beach guys — they can go either way. Sometimes they blow (as did a recent local beer festival that shall remain nameless) – or as is the case with, Sprung! Spring Beer Festival, they can kick major ass. This past Saturday, March 9th Coconut Grove’s Peacock Park hosted 150 spring and summer craft beers from well-known, talented breweries like Sierra Nevada, Brooklyn Brewery, Kona, Magic Hat, Shiner, Shipyard and many more. We love to support small businesses as well as people doing what they are truly passionate about. That is why we were very pleased to see Sprung! supporting the very impressive local craft beer movement here in South Florida. Continue reading “Photographs of Sprung! Spring Beer Festival 3/9/2013”

Photographs from 2nd Annual HeartCamp Unconference at Hotel Urbano Brickell

The 2nd Annual HeartCamp Unconference at Hotel Urbano Brickell on Saturday, February 2, 2013.   HeartCamp is held during American Heart Month they discussed the physical, emotional, spiritual and creative aspects of the heart, with a focus on relationships of all kinds — relationship to the heart, body, self, others and soul. Topics include heart health, nutrition, sex, romance, career, parenting and many more.

 

Photographs from Yelp’s Streetopia

…and on the Eighth Day God Created Yelp

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian) and Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

For all the competition about which new tech company reigns supreme we have a memo for you: Yelp Rules. Forget Facebook, LinkedIn, Groupon etc. Nobody treats their members better than Yelp. Yelp has a sterling reputation for great reviews and throwing badass parties for its special members. This past Thursday, January 31st they pulled off one the best events of the year, Streetopia leaving all guests with smiling faces and protruding, satiated bellies. Though the event was only open to Yelp members it reached capacity ridiculously quickly.

Streetopia was held at the Bakehouse Art Complex in Wynwood. The venue fused exquisite food, festive liquors and ales, fine art and amusing performances into a gluttonous bash. While there were well over a couple dozen vendors we will share with you some of our highlights. South Florida’s own Schnebly Redland Winery & Brewery was pouring their scrumptious beers including the Big Rod Blonde Ale, which is a delightfully refreshing coconut (yes, coconut!) beer. I don’t even like coconut and I could NOT stop drinking it. Nove Kitchen and Bar provided solid salmon and filet dishes along with free drink cards for redemption at its trendy establishment. We will definitely be stopping by there to sample their libations (and yes free drinks will always get us to mention you.) The always delicious Pincho Factory served incredible mini pita chickens. Sprung was present promoting its Spring Beer Festival with cheerful models handing out discount coupons to the event. The festival looks likes it’s going to be amazeballs. Robeks Miami shared a fantastic Tropi-kale smoothie made of kale and pineapple. It seemed wayyy too delicious to be healthy but we were assured it was. Crave Coral Gables shared delicious desserts that kept us coming back for more.

On the dessert front, both Ali’s Sweet Treats and Sugar Rush Food Truck put people into majestic confectionery comas. Ali had so many different cupcakes up for devouring but a few of our faves were the nutella and pistachio.  Sugar Rush who utilizes complex ingredients had an adorable lil’ glass of milk with a cookie on top, but their true work of art was its Mexican chocolate tiramasu. The dish had so many complex layers of flavor I found myself licking the cup clean.

In addition, the electronic company Tiger Direct was in attendance with a Wheel of Technology.  You could spin the wheel to win many prizes such as laptops, $50 gift cards and other great prizes.  Every spin was a win! There were also raffles,  cool dance performances, and a beautifully curated art exhibit housed at the Bakehouse Complex. Our favorite ladies from the Blo Dry Bar – Midtown were whipping up some funky styles. Departing guests received the most thoughtful collection of frivolous chotchkies we had ever seen. We’re talking high powered bouncy balls, shot glasses, bottle openers, ponchos, mints and cool red Yelp sunglasses etc……

So for our slow readers the moral of the story is that — Yelp Fuckin Rules. Awesome sincere reviews of everything in your neighborhood and sick parties with food, liquor, entertainment and gifts. If you are not a member yet, go signup.  Do it. Right now. Write some reviews and be ready to jump on the list for their next legendary party.

 

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

 

Huge thanks for the Lite bites from:
NoVe (http://www.novekitchen.com)
Reggae Tacos (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
The Filling Station (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Ms. Cheezious (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Will Call (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Zen Sai (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Sazon Cuban Cuisine (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Bice Bistro (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
The Special (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Sweetness Bake Shop (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Ali’s Sweet Treats (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Giardino Gourmet Salads (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Eating House Miami (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Los Verdes (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Crepe Maker (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Inspired Events (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Pincho Factory (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Crave (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
The Fish House (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Tierra Nueva (http://www.tierranuevaco…)
HipPOPS (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
The Pastry Shop – Magic City Chefs (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Machiya (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Rice House of Kabob (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Happy Wine (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)

Much appreciation for great drinks from:
Boba Station (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Panther Coffee (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Samuel Adams (http://www.samueladams.c…)
Hatuey (http://www.hatuey.com/)
Robeks (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Zico (http://zico.com/)
Red Bull (http://www.redbullusa.co…)
Steep City Teas (http://www.steepcityteas…)
Carib Beer (http://www.caribbrewery.…)
Piedra Azul tequila
Spicebox Whisky (Rye and Cinnamon) (http://spiceboxwhisky.co…)
Brugal Rum (http://www.brugal-ron.co…)
Mandarine Napoleon (http://www.mandarinenapo…) and Gran Sierpe Pisco (http://gransierpe.com/) courtesy of the Workshop Collective (http://www.workshopcolle…)
Streetopia Beer Garden sponsored by Sprung/Grovetoberfest (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…) and featuring Duvel Belgium (http://www.duvel.be/), Schnebly Miami Brewing Big Rod Ale (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…), Czechvar Czechoslovakia (http://www.czechvar.com/…), and Red Hook Winterhook (http://redhook.com/)
Miami Cocktail Company (http://www.miamicocktail…)
Cafeina (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)

Entertainment from:
Black Tape Project (http://blacktapeproject.…)
Illmatik Phlow
Tiger Direct (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Adrian Sunshine (http://www.youtube.com/u…)
Perform Studio (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
MiamiDJs4u (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
Focal Point Dance Studio (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)

Visual Loveliness from:
Blo Blow Dry Bar (Midtown) (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
live art installations from artists in residence

Miami necessities from:
Reyes Family Cigars (http://reyesfamilycigars…)

Photographic and Video Mastery courtesy of:
Capture Pod (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
YouCeleb (http://www.youceleb.com/)
Pabelona Studio (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)

Service by:
Alsco Linens (http://alsco.com/en/inde…)
Miami Shine Cleaners (http://www.yelp.com/biz/…)
SociallyBuzz (http://www.sociallybuzz.…)

Photographs of 7th Annual International Chocolate Festival

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian)

We spent this past lovely winter Saturday, January 25th at the serene Fairchild Botanic Garden for its 7th Annual International Chocolate Festival.  The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a tropical oasis off of Old Cutler Road that sports a beautiful collection of trees, plants and wildlife. The chocolate festival was an event for all ages held over three days. The venue provided chocolate tastings, Whole Foods sponsored chocolate beer tastings, a chocolate themed spa, chocolate plants, food trucks, educational seminars, cooking classes for adults and children. Truly a delight for all things chocolate! In addition to the festival, patrons were granted access to the Garden’s tropical flower garden, spiny forest of Madagascar, Victoria pool, butterfly garden, tropical fruit pavilion, conservatory and many other attractions.  The butterfly garden was mesmerizing to walk through with gorgeous butterflies literally landing on your shoulders and fingers.

We especially enjoyed The Short Chef who gave a comical and inspiring children’s cooking workshop highlighting the child obesity issue plaguing our country. He was hysterical and enchanted both the adults and kids who attended. He served up a healthy chocolate-marinated strawberry salad that was gobbled up by the attendees. The event was packed with smiling faces and kids running around the park on glorious chocolate sugar rushes. The setting was stunning, the free beers superb, the chocolate exquisite and the vibe of the event sweeter than decadent Swiss chocolate. We look forward to more chocolate dipping next year.

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

 

 

Photographs from PULSE 2.0: Late Night at the New World Symphony

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian) & Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

Pulse is a once-a-year cross-genre event at the New World Center.  Pulse 2.0 featured Miami-based DJ Sean Drake who joined the New World Symphony for an amazingly unique musical night. Pulse also featured a vocalist for the first time – world renowned-native Miami soprano Elaine Alvarez, her celestial voice reverberated throughout the adoring crowd   The event was designed to integrate contemporary classical music with electronic music into an evening-long presentation to help attract new audiences to the art form. Mission accomplished, Pulse.  The crowd was an eclectic mix of Miami socialites, icons, art fanciers, musicians and music lovers.

DJ Sean Drake was spinning lounge music in between the two sets of classical music, the first which featured music by American composers, and the second by Latin-American composers. The night  concluded with DJ Drake’s last set—an surreal dance party in the main performance hall.  It was a blast and a half! Definitely looking forward to Pulse 3.0.

 

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras

Photographs Venue Magazine Cover Launch Party at The Hoxton

So after the lovely engagement party, fundraiser celebrating Barcardi heir Gian Luis Barcardi and his lovely fiancee Kazandra Vega, we swung by The Hoxton (formerly Lucky Clover) to join in on the fun and festivities at Venue Magazine’s Cover Launch Party. The site has been transformed from Irish Pub  to swanky Hampton’s Beach House.  Beautiful people were abound, including my favorite housewife and Executive Editor for Venue Magazine, Alexia Echevarria. She is always so warm and friendly every single time I’ve seen seen her.  Enjoy the images and hope to see you around town…

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

 

Photographs of Philanthropic Engagement Celebration for Gian Luis Bacardi and Kazandra Vega 1/12/13

Gian Luis Bacardi, heir to the Bacardi global spirits and beverage conglomerate, will celebrate his engagement to fiancé, Kazandra Vega, on the evening of January 12, 2013 at the newly-opened Safi Restaurant in downtown Miami.

Along with commemorating the love story of the young couple, the evening will served as an occasion to honor the charitable work of eight distinguished South Florida women and support Food for the Poor, an applauded non-profit that Gian’s mother, Kimberly Bacardi, has championed for many years. In lieu of gifts, Gian and Kazandra have decided to use the occasion of an engagement party to raise money for Food for the Poor’s continued efforts to help those in dire need in Haiti.

The eight female honorees are all women who have made exceptional efforts to support Food for the Poor, Kim’s Good Karma Group (a group of like-minded charitable people and companies started by Kimberly Bacardi), as well as their own personal philanthropic passions.  They include:

Noel Brown (Medallion Occasions Party Invitations & Décor)
Suzanne Delawar (Winston Delawar Photography)
Kimberlee Etheridge (Haute In the City Events)
Maria Elena Holguin (Holguin Interiors & Design International)
Diana Laura (Actress and Model)
Ana Paz (Ana Paz Cakes)
Teri Rios (Toss up Salads)
Bridget Baratto Sanchez (Entrepreneur)

Sponsors of the event include:
TooLive Inc; Winston Delawar Photography; Safi Restaurant & Lounge; Tyla Smith Group, Houseit Productions; Boca Tanning Brickell; Golden Age Digital; Ana Paz Cakes; Cavoda Vodka; Karamello & Co.; Joey Mugica, The Color Queen; Embrujo Red Wines of Spain; Bromelidworld.com; Diab Designs and Diamonds; Sabbia Jewelers Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne; Enable Consulting Group; Elisabeth Gardere Florals, Decor & Party Planning; The Wine Cellar Café, Rincon, Puerto Rico; Kimberly Bacardi; Romero Britto; Sunny Singh; DJ Maximus 3000; Edward Oberle Lopez; De Fabulous Hair; JLPR; Freedom Concierge Service; Loubins Richard Pianist; Choco Noir, Stork Catering; Miami Fashion Spotlight; Miami Luxury Awards; Dadeland Animal Hospital Dr Sharon MacIvor; ME Mobile Events http://mobileeventstreaming.com/social.html you can view this event all over the world 7 to 11 PM LIVE at this link!

Event Chairs include:
Ruby Bacardi, Sharon MacIvor Bauer, Nick Betancourt, Rhonda Billie, Erin Castillo, Ricardo Charles, Sidney Evans, Kelly Gazo, Jennifer Heegaard, Watson James, Jennifer Judice, Lukas Klessig, Rick Morgan, Zurami Pascual, Monica Puig, Lissette Rondon, Jessica Saiontz, Tyla Smith.

To learn more about current efforts or to contribute: www.foodforthepoor.org/goodkarmagroup

Photo Credits: Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

Evo Love Exhibit at the Eleazar Delgado Studio.

Made a quick cameo at the Evo Love Exhibit at Eleazar Delgado Studio in Wynwood last week. Sadly, I missed the drummers, the dancers, and the live psychic readings. I did get to check out this very vibrant installation that was reminiscent of a real, neighborhood botanica. It’s only going on for a couple more days, so be sure to swing by…

 

The Dome Restaurant Presents Moscow Disko Wednesdays 1/9/13

MOSKOW DISKO LAUNCH _v2The Dome Restaurant, Bar & Lounge, an environmentally conscious, farm-to-table eatery and caviar bar on Miracle Mile, is thrilled to announce Moscow Disko – a new weekly party celebrating food, music, and the arts, all in the heart of Coral Gables.

Hosted by local author, Ily Goyanes (Miami New Times, Miami International Book Fair, Girls Who Score: Hot Lesbian Erotica) and musically curated by Billboard DJ and Producer, Maximus 3000 (Miami Beach Pride, White Party, Winter Music Conference), Moscow Disko guarantees a memorable evening for sassy socialites and blithe bohemians alike. Expect The Dome’s exquisite edibles on hand, plus a reverse happy hour, $3 beers, and a complimentary champagne toast. Each week a different local artist will be exhibiting their work and mingling with guests.

Selected works from Eleazar Delgado’s “Sunshine Culture” series will be on display for Moscow Disko’s official launch party. A celebrated Miami artist, Delgado captures the rich history of Miami with bold colors and geometric shapes in a way that only he can. “My work illuminates portals to expose the beautiful way color and light shape the relationship between Miami’s historical icons and the Magic City,” says the artist. Delgado will be on hand to speak about his work and of course, to socialize! Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase selected works.

Come early and enjoy dinner or saunter in after 8 p.m. to sip on some savory cocktails and naughty nibbles — all at reverse happy hour prices. Appreciate the artsy, upscale vibe while enjoying the classic beats presented by Maximus 3000. The noted DJ and Producer will take Wednesday evenings back to the nights of Fire & Ice, playing all your favorite electronic hits from the early eighties, from artists such as Freeez, Lime, Kraftwerk, Telex, Yaz, Giorgio Moroder, Berlin, and Patrick Cowley.  For those lit lovers out there, a limited number of Goyanes’ latest book, Girls Who Score: Hot Lesbian Erotica, will be available for purchase. If you already own a copy of Girls Who Score, bring it with you for the author to sign.

The Dome is the first LEED® Silver certified restaurant in Coral Gables (only the 2nd in South Florida and the first independently owned). Utilizing the application of recycled materials, local farm vendors, an induction kitchen, LED lighting, green operation methods and digital menus on iPads, to name only a few, The Dome brings a modern and sustainable restaurant to Coral Gables.

For advance reservations, please call 305.648.4999. Follow The Dome on Twitter @TheDomeMiami and on Facebook atfacebook.com/TheDomeMiami. Visit domemiami.com to peruse the complete menu, the full wine list, and The Dome Restaurant, Bar & Lounge’s signature cocktails

 

Ultimate Miami Food Truck Competition at Magic City Casino

Food Truck Culinary Mastery on Display at Magic City Casino

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian) & Daniella Veras (@_DaniMiami)

There are few better ways to start off the New Year then forsaking your weight loss resolutions and devouring exquisite food like a starving Rwandan.  This past Saturday, January 5th we were granted this opportunity courtesy of Magic City Casino and Ultimate Miami. The Ultimate Miami Food Truck Battle was the third part of a seven part series held by Ultimate Miami.  Previous events include Ultimate Miami Band and Ultimate Miami Bartender. Upcoming events will include Ultimate Miami Voice, Ultimate Miami Comedian, Ultimate Miami Dessert and Ultimate Miami DJ.

We attended their most recent event Ultimate Miami Food Truck throw down … unfortunately Bobby Flay was absent ;)  Magic City Casino hosted the event on their grounds while these trucks competed for a $5,000 prize.  Eight finalists remained after previously held preliminary rounds to compete on this glorious, cool crisp evening. The finalists were B.C. Tacos, Crazydilla, Cuban Cube, Food Junkies on Wheels, Ms. Cheezious, Palate Party, Che Grill and The Healthnut on Wheels.  The contest was setup so that a truck would be matched up against another truck each serving one chicken dish. Tickets for the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition were $40 and include two meals from competing trucks, a beverage and 25 percent off all eight food trucks after the competition. The patrons who bought tickets for the event were split in two groups. They participated and voted as audience judges in two of the four rounds for their favorite dish.  The four winners of this round advanced to the finals were they each made a different dish of their choosing. Only the three panel judges were able to taste and deem a victor.

The first battle of the night pitted B.C. Tacos vs. Crazydilla. BC prevailed with their scrumptious chicken and fried avocado balls soft taco over Crazydilla’s tasty grilled chicken crispy tortilla.

Crazydilla's Mexidilla
Crazydilla’s Mexidilla
B.C. Taco's Chicken and Friend Avocado Taco
B.C. Taco’s Chicken and Friend Avocado Taco

The second battle had Cuban Cube dueling with Food Junkies on Wheels. The Cubans won this battle with their take on a classic Peruvian cuasa, shredded chicken on top of a mashed yellow potato dumpling mixed with key lime, onion, chili and oil, which was aesthetically beautiful but in our humble opinion was clearly not the better dish. The Junkies served up the BEST MOTHERF**KING fried chicken we have EVER tasted with red velvet waffles and a sweet cream drizzle. The Junkies employ some sort of sweet salt on this perfectly cooked crispy yet juicy chicken.  One bite will overload your brain with more dopamine then a naughty tryst with your favorite movie star.  We literally told the endearing, jubilant Food Junkies spokesperson, that we were going to call the cops on him for putting crack in his chicken.  This was easily the best dish of the night and possibly, the best fried dish of our lives.

DSCN3783
Cuban Cube’s Chicken Causa
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Food Junkies Fried Chicken and Red Velvet Waffles. The picture does NOT do them justice.

The third battle brought Palate Party sparring against The Healthnut on Wheels. The Healthnut is a truck that promotes a healthier alternative to food truck cuisine and cooks in a paleo style, mimicking the diet of our cavemen ancestors.  They utilize only coconut or extra virgin olive oil with meat, fish and veggies and entirely steer clear of processed foods. They served up a delightful grilled chicken lettuce wrap with grilled veggies. The Palate Party run by the vivacious and hysterical Chef Robyn Almodovar offered up a scrumptious, fiery fried chicken wing with maple syrup laced, Belgian waffles. Chef Robyn described her dish as “more delicious then a face f**k” and, although I cannot speak from experience, I would tend to believe her.  Chef Robyn tried to steer the crowd her way by enthusiastically cheering for her dish and even dancing on top her truck like a samba swaying and gyrating, but in the end the Caveman conquered.

This was soooo yummy!
Palate Party’s Chicken and Waffles
Health Nut On Wheels Paelothic Chicken, Veggies and Avocado.
Health Nut On Wheels Paelothic Chicken, Veggies and Avocado.

The final first round had Che Grill brawling it out with the famous Ms. Cheezious. Che served a Polla Matahambre, a beautifully gourmet grilled stuffed chicken breast and with gulf sauce against Ms. Cheezious’ shredded grilled chicken, jalapeno, corn, grill cheese on sourdough. Although they did not serve up its famous blue cheese and bacon sandwich, Ms. Cheezious triumphed.

Che Grill's Pollo Matahambre and Potatoes
Che Grill’s Pollo Matahambre and Potatoes
Ms. Cheezious Grilled Cheese with Chicken and Corn on Sourdough
Ms. Cheezious Grilled Cheese with Chicken and Corn on Sourdough with a delicous slaw on the side.

The Championship round brought out the best in the remaining four contenders. Each had 20 minutes to cook up their  succulent entries. Cuban Cube cooked up a fried Spanish sweet potato stuffed with lamb shank and a side of spicy slaw. B.C. Taco served a slow braised brisket with crispy plantains, black beans, cilantro and cheese. Ms. Cheezious brought out a braised pork belly, kimchee and cheddar sandwich with five-spice potato chips while Healthnut offered up a wild caught Alaskan salmon with soy maple glaze over sautéed spinach.

The final offering from Cuban Cube
The final offering from Cuban Cube
The final offering from Ms. Cheezious
The final offering from Ms. Cheezious
The final offering from B.C. Tacos
The final offering from B.C. Tacos
DSCN3841
The salmon was still in process when we came around and they got done just in time to deliver them to the judges. Looked great from here…

Since we were not “official judges” yet, we were not able to taste any of these culinary extravaganzas, yet they all looked and smelled superb.  In the end, The Healthnut took home the prize for their healthy paleo sweet Alaskan salmon. The Health Nut on Wheels truck was visibly ecstatic and emotional after their victory, jumping, smiling, and screaming. One member pointed up to the sky and gave thanks.  It was a perfect smile-inducing image to conclude this festive, epicurean evening.

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Winner Miguel Kristaly of Health Nut on Wheels

“Ultimate Miami, LLC was formed to promote, through competition, Miami’s outstanding eclectic composition of talent in various subsets in the fields of music and culinary arts.” find out more at www.TheUltimateMiami.com

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras

Erin MIA’S Birthday * Fashion Forward * A Spring 2013 Runway Fashion Show to Benefit KGKG ‘Food For The Poor’

Erin MIA’S Birthday * Fashion Forward * A Spring 2013 Runway Fashion Show to Benefit KGKG “Food For The Poor” at Dapur Asian Tappas Restaurant/Lounge, 1620 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33005

A Spring 2013 Runway Fashion Show with Special Guest Host, Miss South Florida USA, Gianina Acevedo.Nicole Shelley Models Presents:
Ready to Wear Spring 2013

Runway Fashions by:
* Lingerie/Swimwear by Lingerini
www.Lingerini.co
* Designer Eyewear by InSight Optics
* Contemporary Ready-to-Wear by Elektrik Boutique
* Decadent Evening wear by SHA DIAZ Couture

Hair by Nolan Vincent Salon & Spa
Makeup by Eliza Cosmetics

Hosted by:
Jennifer Judice, Rick Morgan, Nicole Shelley, Maritza Bedoya, Kimberly Bacardi & Kim’s Good Karma Group

Raffle Fundraiser for ‘Food for the Poor’
www.FoodforthePoor.org/goodkarmagroup

With a special appearance and birthday cake presentation to Soul of Miami’s very own Annette Piekert.

Burgerliscious – The Second Course

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian) & Daniella Veras (@_DaniMiami)

Burgerlicious, living up to its catchy name, was truly defuckinlicious. This scrumptious soiree was held outdoors at the Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables.  The beautiful balmy winter night was ideal for this epicurean grilling forgy (food orgy).  The crisp, cool weather gave South Floridians a chance to don their finest skiwear while New Yorkers rocked their “You Call This Cold?” t-shirts.  This venue, unlike past burger shindigs, did not leave the attendees smelling like the Eau de Ronald McDonald.  Over 20 competing restaurants, Sam Adams Beer, Naked Grape Wine and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream were being served to the beat of cover band, Mad World. The VIP bar was stocked with delectable Seasons 52 mini desserts (heavenly pecan pies) and limitless Jack Daniels Tennessee Whisky and Tennessee Honey.

The “Best in Bun” was awarded to Shula’s 347 Grill for its caramelized onions, double gruyere cheese, garlic mayo and crushed garlic croutons burger while the “People’s Choice Award” went to The Dome for its barbecued infused cheeseburgers served with white cheddar, arugula, tomatoes, grilled onions and spicy mayo.

While those were solid offerings, the top two burgers that we devoured were hand-crafted by Pincho Factory and Seasons 52.  Pincho had a brisket patty that was soaked in brown sugar IPA beer with Havarti cheese and onions.  This culinary concoction was an utter delight and whose memory still induces a mouth-watering Pavlovian reaction.  Season’s 52 chose a healthier route to reflect its restaurant’s message and served up a turkey burger with crispy onions, spicy mayo and chili served on a decadent butter toasted make-you-challahhh roll.  Hands down, the best turkey burger we’ve ever had.

Honorable mentions include Rok Burger for its juicy Kobe burger with brie, BBQ bourbon bacon jam, on a homemade bun;  The Bar’s superb lager braised short rib, crispy onions, apple slaw and finger-lickin’ Jack Daniels sauce; and CRAVE Restaurant‘s savory pork and beef sliders.

The event was a deliciously fun, filling and reasonably priced ($50) foodie treat that will definitely have us returning for next year’s third course.