Category: Food

Burger Beast present El Main Evento 9/20/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
El Main Evento
Saturday September 20th, 5PM – 10PM
elmainevento_24x36Magic City Casino
450 NW 37th Ave
Miami, Florida 33125
Admission: Free
All ages welcome
Parking: Plenty of Free Parking
Website

Every 3rd Saturday of the month the Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival happens at Magic City Casino. But for September, it becomes El Main Evento!

We’re celebrating Mexican culture with Mariachis, Margaritas, a Burrito Eating Contest and Lucha Libre by Uknow Pro! Yes, Wrestling!

Each of the Food Trucks are creating special Mexican themed dishes featuring spices from El Guapo & McCormick (along with their regular menus) which will be available for sale to the public in limited quantities. Our panel of local experts (Fatgirl Hedonist, GourmandJ & author Mandy Baca) will select one dishes as the best.

Comida – Food: Babe Froman Fine Sausages, Box of Chacos, Che Grill, Crazydilla, Da Burger Shack, Daddy’s Grill, Don Mofongo, El Rey de las Fritas, Flip’s Country Kettle Corn, Jefe’s Original Fish Taco & Burgers, King of Racks BBQ, Ms. Cheezious, Passion BBQ, Poblanos Mexican Fusion, Purple People Eatery, The Rolling Stove, Saucy ‘Stache, Taco Fresh, Top Fries

Postres – Desserts: Cruz Diablo Donuts, HipPOPs Handcrafted Gelato Bars, La Migaja Mexican Bakery, Liquid N2 Ice Cream, Marlie’s Delights, Paradise Cups

Batch Gastropub: New Fall Menu Excites by Betty Alvarez

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The first time I’ve been to Batch Gastropub was to celebrate my friend’s birthday party. When I first went in, I was amazed about how casual but comfortable the restaurant is. It’s a gastropub where the menu was approachable and there was an expansive drink list. We celebrated during their happy hour and the placed got packed as soon as I got there. My girlfriends and I indulged in their wonderful happy hour menu and their regular menu. A memorable time for all!

This time around, I got the opportunity to preview their Autumn menu which I was excited to taste. I could not wait for the delectable surprises that this place that had brought my tastebuds into action.

First of all, I was greeted with a cornucopia of cocktail samplings. The one that stood out is the Green Pepper Mojito as I thought it was going to be super sweet but to my surprise it wasn’t. I could taste the green pepper flavor in my mouth but it was not overwhelming to sour my taste of the food that I was about to sample.

Batch gave us two types of menus to choose from for our tasting one that had the house made meatballs or the General Tso’s Cauliflower dish as the starter.

We began with a snack: Salmon Crudo comprised with the House Cured Faroe Island Salmon on top of Florida peaches with Truffled vinaigrette and maldon salt. This small snack was a different experience as I never tasted a salmon on top of a slice of peach before. The salmon taste came to my tastebuds first and then complimented it with the sweet peach infusing both into a nice sweet and delectable light bite.

Then came the starters, the house made meatballs of duck, short rib and pork belly on a sweet potato puree and Serrano ham gave me great delight. The meatballs were warm, soft to chew and the sweet potato puree gave it a good additive to my palate.

The next starter was the Tuna Poke-Peanut Butter “Crumble”, wonton, scallion, and crispy ginger. Although I did not taste the peanut butter but the scallion and the crispy ginger is what stood out of my mind. It was delicious.

For the veggies part, a Batch Kale Salad was served. Now I never had Kale in my life so I was delighted and nervous at the same time in trying this salad comprised of raw kale, hearts of palm, peanuts, strawberry vinaigrette, and parmesan. To my surprise, I loved it. The kale was not overpowering and the vinaigrette made everything come together. Definitely will have to try that salad again next time I go to Batch Gastropub.

Now the main course: The Drunken Short Rib which is a whiskey braised short rib with Vanilla and Sour Mash, Creamy polenta and Cinammon roasted carrots on the side. The meat was so tender that it was falling out of the bone. I could taste the whisky a bit but my memory was the warm, soft, juicy meat that these ribs had. Other than the cinnamon that covered the carrots it was also mixed with a coffee flavored sauce which had a distinctive taste.

The sweets that culminated our experience is the Carnival Donuts-fried dough, powdered sugar, with a warm chocolate ganache and Kahlua syrup. Now these round donuts were the best and my favorite was dumping it in the Kahlua syrup rather than the chocolate ganache. It was so taste was so much richer to my palate.
A very sweet experience to end this preview tasting.

All in all, I can’t wait for this autumn menu to be announced to the general public as Batch Gastropub wants to exemplify the farm to table concept as it is healthier option for everyone but with full of taste. Kudos to Batch Gastropub!

18th Annual Broward March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction 9/17/14

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18th Annual Broward March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction
Wednesday, 09/17/2014 – 06:30 pm – 09:30 pm
MOD-SCA-LogoThe Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa
3555 South Ocean Drive,
Hollywood, Florida 33019
Webpage Link
Cost: $250 per person. Additional sponsorship opportunities available

If you’ been wanting to sample an infinite assortment of the most delicious culinary treats in all of South Florida, the Broward March of Dimes’ Signature Chefs Auction is waiting for you! Dozens of renowned chefs from the Fort Lauderdale’s most popular restaurants will masterfully create their most famous dishes, all in sample sizes so you’ll have room to experience every extraordinary, mouthwatering taste. Enjoy live music while you bid on distinctive silent and live auction items all to help moms have healthier babies.

Proceeds from the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction help fund support programs and research to help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies and prevent birth defects, premature births and infant mortality. More than four million babies were born in the United States last year and the March of Dimes helped each and every one through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs.

Presenting sponsor: The Salah Foundation

Event chair: Bob Birdsong, President & CEO, Ok Generators

Contact: Denise Jordan at 754-300-2614 or djordan@marchofdimes.com

Marlins Park Hosts Octoberfest Miami 10/4/14

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Marlins Park Hosts Octoberfest Miami
Saturday, October 4th | 12:00pm – 11:00pm
OctoberfestMiamiMarlins Park
‎501 Marlins Way
Miami, FL 33125
Buy Tickets Online
Use code OFEST to save 50%.

The Miami Marlins have announced that Marlins Park will host the Octoberfest Miami Festival, presented by Beck’s, at the West Plaza from noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday, October 4. The event will take place rain or shine as the roof will be opened to provide shelter or shade in the West Plaza. For the past two years, Octoberfest Miami by Vitamin C Communications, formerly known as Brickellfest, has executed the city’s most exciting examples of an Octoberfest celebration.

Fans can purchase tickets at Marlins.com/Octoberfest and enter the promotion code “OFEST” for a 50-percent discount on tickets. Two ticket packages are available for the event; the VIP package includes VIP entry to Octoberfest Miami, one 16-ounce beer in a souvenir Octoberfest mug, one plate of German-style cuisine, one alpine hat and early check-in from noon to 2 p.m. The general admission package includes entry to the event and one complimentary 16-ounce sponsored beer.

The event will include authentic German food, live music and a roster of 18 different beers from Beck’s, Goose Island, Shock Top and Johnny Appleseed. Live entertainment will be featured for the duration of the event, featuring a live German band, La Linea, DJ Africa, DJ Vertigo and DJ Zog.

Vitamin C Communications is a premier marketing and events agency in South Florida for over five years. Specializing in smaller luxury events to festivals for the masses to monthly executed events, Vitamin C has produced successful events ranging from Lexus’s annual ‘Sabor de Lujo’ taste of Miami, New Year’s Eve at Mondrian South Beach and their most well-known and widely attended event, the Brickell Fest Holiday Event Series.

Florida Grand Opera Season Preview Cocktail Party 10/23/14

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Florida Grand Opera Season Preview Cocktail Party
Thursday, 10/23/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
YA-2014_15III Forks Prime Steakhouse
501 Silks Run,
Hallandale, Florida 33009
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Florida Grand Opera celebrates the start of another exciting season with its highly-anticipated season preview celebration – in a lively lounge setting. On October 23, 2014, the annual affair takes over at Hallandale’s modern steakhouse, III Forks, and showcases some of the most beloved pieces that audiences will enjoy throughout FGO’s upcoming season, all performed by FGO’s newest group of Young Artists.

Located five minutes from Hallandale Beach, III Forks is a contemporary take on an upscale steakhouse. This evening of beautiful music will also feature complimentary wine and light bites, followed by an optional dinner with the Young Artists after the event. This free event is open to the public, but an RSVP is requested. Whether or not you have tickets for the 2014-15 season, enjoy beautiful music, savor some delicious food, and celebrate the start to another exciting year with the Florida Grand Opera.

III Forks Prime Steakhouse is located at 501 Silks Run in Hallandale, Florida. Dinner reservations for III Forks are recommended and can be made by calling 954-457-3920 or online at http://www.3forks.com/reservations.php. For additional information, visit www.3forks.com.

Food and Wine Pairing at Oceanaire 9/9/14

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Food and Wine Pairing at Oceanaire
Tuesday, 09/09/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:30 pm
Sept-HeaderThe Oceanaire Seafood Room
900 S Miami Ave,
Miami, Florida 33130
More Info Link
Cost: $60

Oceanaire and Savor Tonight have partnered up to host a sit-down food + wine tasting event on Tues., Sept 9th starting at 7pm. Chef Kareem has created a delectable menu, designed especially for the group — and each course will be served with a matching wine.

Cost is $60 if purchased by Sat., September 6th and $65, thereafter, if space is available. This includes the menu listed below, along with tax + gratuity. Remember to buy your tickets early, as these events oftentimes sell out.

MENU

GREEN MANGO + BURRATA MOZZARELLA SALAD
lava salt | micro greens | herb oil
Gewurztraminer – Firestone, Santa Ynez Valley

MAINE SEA SCALLOPS + YELLOWFIN TUNA “TIRADITO”
ghost pepper caviar | concha | choclo
Chenin Blanc – Pine Ridge, Napa Valley

ROASTED PEPPER GNOCCHI “SURF & TURF”
braised short ribs | king crab | white truffle cream
Malbec – Tamari “Reserva,” Mendoza

TIRAMISU MARTINI “TIA MARIA”
mascarpone | tia maria rum | shaved chocolate

Coffee service available upon request.

Late Night with Will Rivas at Macchialina 9/5/14

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Late Night with Will Rivas at Macchialina
Friday, 09/05/2014 – 09/06/2014 12:00 am – 02:00 am
Screen-Shot-2014-09-02-at-1.38.53-PMMacchialina
820 Alton Road,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: N/A

Hang out after hours at Macchialina for “Late Night with Will Rivas” every Friday and Saturday night!

Extended hours from 12 am – 2 am where you can enjoy cocktails fro Will Rivas and bar menu items from Chef Michael Pirolo such as “Meatballs Parm” Sandwich, Lasagna, Baked Cavatelli and Polpettine.

Winn-Dixie Celebrates/Honors Hispanic Heritage Month With “Dos Culturas, Mucha Frescura” Celebration With Renowned Chef Pepin 9/20/14

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Winn-Dixie Celebrates/Honors Hispanic Heritage Month With “Dos Culturas, Mucha Frescura” Celebration With Renowned Chef Pepin
Saturday, 09/20/2014 – 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm
14-4506_WD_HispHeritage_BS_251Winn-Dixie Store #251
3275 Sw 22nd Street,
Miami, Florida 33145
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with “Dos Culturas, Mucha Frescura” featuring local celebrity Chef Pepin. Known for his spontaneous and whimsical approach to cooking, Chef Pepin will delight customers with a live, interactive cooking demonstration where he will dish-up a fusion of flavorful recipes, including bacon croquetas, mango chicken wings and cranberry churros. As part of the celebration, attendees will receive a complimentary booklet packed with flavor-fusing recipes (while supplies last) and can take part in an afternoon of fun-filled activities, including raffles, giveaways and more.

Art by Floyd & Isabel Original Fashion Show + Original Living Magazine Cover Party 9/19/14

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Art by Floyd & Isabel Original Fashion Show + Original Living Magazine Cover Party
Friday, 09/19/2014 – 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Art-by-Floyd-Flyer-2U.S. Century Bank of Coral Gables
3001 Ponce De Leon Blvd,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Facebook Link
Cost: RSVP Required

Isabel Original International & Art by Floyd unite to present their new line for women and men at the US Century Bank Coral Gables on Friday, September 19th 2014 from 6-9pm along with the cover release party for Original Living Magazine featuring Univision’s 3-time Emmy Awards winner tv/news personality Natalia Cruz.

Special performance by Franco Londono & Jose Luis Barba

By Invitation – Please RSVP to: MegaCityGroup@gmail.com

Wine Pairing 9/10/14

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Wine Pairing
Wednesday, 09/10/2014 – 07:00 pm –
Chima-Fort-Lauderdale-Wine-Dinner-SeptemberChima Brazilian Steakhouse
2400 East Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Webpage Link
Cost: $70

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, located on Fort Lauderdale’s posh Las Olas Boulevard, invites local wine aficionados to escape the summer heat and join sommelier Larry Baker for an evening of delightfully crisp light wines, paired with dishes from the restaurant’s gourmet kitchen and grills.

Caipirinha Tasting 9/4/14

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Caipirinha Tasting
Thursday, 09/04/2014 – 05:00 pm – 08:00 pm
FLL_CaipirihaeventChima Brazilian Steakhouse
2400 East Las Olas Boulevard,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Webpage Link
Cost: $20

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, located on Fort Lauderdale’s posh Las Olas Boulevard, invites locals to enjoy a sip and bite of Brazil on Thursday, Sept. 4 with an evening dedicated to Brazil’s national drink – the Caipirinha, a cocktail featuring cachaça, lime and sugar.
From 5 – 8 p.m., for only $20, guests can indulge in three flavors of freshly-muddled Caipirinhas including strawberry, passion fruit, and traditional, and an upscale bar bites sampler of a beef skewer, chicken and pineapple skewer, caprese skewer, and Chima’s signature cheese bread and meat croquettes.

All You Can Eat Taco Tuesdays at Batch Gastropub 9/2/14

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All You Can Eat Taco Tuesdays at Batch Gastropub
Tuesday, 09/02/2014 – 07:00 pm –
TacoTuesdayflyerwinfo1Batch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

Tuesday is about to become your favorite day of the week all thanks to Batch Gastropub. Brickell’s go to neighborhood spot introduces Taco and Tequila Tuesdays starting September 2nd with All You Can Eat Tacos.

Beat the Tuesday blues and come in to enjoy specials you don’t want to miss out on. All You Can Eat Tacos are only $15 and for $5 you can wash them down with a delicious Margarita or a Tequila shot if that’s more your style. Order a cold margarita pitcher to share with friends or drink yourself if you’re feeling brave for only $20 and if you’re still craving more tequila; pair your tacos with your very own Patron bottle for $100.

Tuesday is the new Friday with Taco and Tequila Tuesdays. Start spreading the word because it’s sure to be a tequila party everyone will love on September 2nd!

“Tress to Impress… Myself! Tour” 9/13/14

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“Tress to Impress… Myself! Tour”
Saturday, 09/13/2014 – 09/13/2014 06:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Venetian Lady Yacht
401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 33132,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link
Cost: $199-$228

Join us the weekend of September 13th & 14th 2014 for the “Tress to Impress… Myself! Tour” hostedby Courtney Adeleye of The Mane Choice. This empowering tour will kick off in Miami and is designed to celebrate and honor the beauty of self-confidence, by learning, understanding, and flaunting your tresses. Get up close and personal on hair with special guest Chrisette Michelle and gain expert advice on taming and maintaining tresses from Courtney Adeleye along with a selection of expert healthy hair panelists. The result? One luxurious night full of sailing, fun, fine food, live music, socializing, and premium open bar.

Purchase your tickets today ranging from $199-$228 for the Sunset Yacht Dinner Cruise & Breakfast. Limited quantity available. Use coupon code LABOR14 for 10% off up until September 3rd 2014.

Batch Gastropub Will Have You Doing Touchdown Dances This Football Season 8/23/14

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Batch Gastropub Will Have You Doing Touchdown Dances This Football Season
Saturday, 08/23/2014 – 02/01/2015 03:30 pm –
Batch-Football-Flyer1Batch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

“Why stay home? Join Brickell’s go-to hotspot for all things

football and delectable dining”

Miami, FL — August 25, 2014 — Ready, Set, Hike! Football season is quickly approaching and Batch Gastropub is prepping to be Brickell’s go-to bar. The friendly gastropub aims to satisfy everyone’s pallet offering breakfast and lunch and a special gridiron menu featuring game day favorites every Saturday and Sunday. Batch also features a full bar including 14 craft beers on tap, 21 in bottles, signature cocktails and an expansive wine list. Batch will have food and beverage specials during all Saturday NCAA games and Sunday/Monday football games. Batch is also taking aim at Monday Night Football and will feature aggressive specials only available on that night.

“We want to create a comfortable atmosphere for all customers”, said owner, Kevin Danilo , “Our entire concept revolves around being able to create great guest experiences across a wide demographic”

Staying true to its mantra, Batch has created an atmosphere for fans of all teams, showcasing every game on its 15 flat screen TV’s and 2 large projector screens. Batch created a specific website, www.batchmiami.com/football, which will be launching in mid August and which will allow guests to know what game will be shown on what TV and which game’s audio will be playing. Guests will be able to check the site at the start of each week, find out where in the venue their favorite team is going to be shown and call to reserve a specific tables.

“A lot of our customers mentioned it was hard finding a place to watch their hometown team so they just stayed home, so we wanted to create a way for them to comfortably watch their team at Batch.” Danilo said

Batch is located at 30 SW 12th St, Miami, FL 33130. Hours of operation: 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily. Metered street parking is available.

Learn more about Batch Gastropub at www.batchmiami.com or call for information and reservations (305) 808-5555
Website: www.batchmiami.com // Facebook: facebook.com/batchmiami // Twitter: twitter.com/batchmiami //! Instagram: @batchmiami

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Miami Spice Mash-Up Grand Finale 9/4/14

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Miami Spice Mash-Up Grand Finale
Thursday, 09/04/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Miami-Spice-Final-Chef-Mash-Up-FlyerLure Fishbar
1601 Collins Ave,
Miami, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: $75

The Miami Spice Mash-Up series, presented by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), pays tribute to the fabulous food scene in Miami and the Beaches with curated collaborations between some of the area’s most popular chefs. The last installment of the popular Mash-up series will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2014 at Lure Fishbar in the Loews Miami Beach Hotel.

Chefs John Iatrellis of Lure Fishbar, Wolfgang Birk of Area 31, and David Bracha of Oak Tavern team up to deliver an evening of indulgent seafood fare to preview each of their enticing September Miami Spice menus. Guests can enjoy two savory dishes per chef and a dessert crafted by the trio for $75 per person including a cocktail reception featuring one complimentary Botran Rum Deluxe Mojito, Stella Artois and a glass of wine from Wines of Chile (excluding tax, gratuity and additional alcohol purchases).

In its inaugural year, the Miami Spice Mash-Up dinner series has been highly successful, bringing food enthusiasts an exclusive preview of each of the featured chef’s Miami Spice menus as well as an opportunity to interact with them. The series kicked off in June at J&G Grill with chefs Brad Kilgore and José Mendín of Pubbelly Group and continued in July at Swine Southern Table & Bar with chefs Clay Miller of 50 Eggs and Todd Erickson of HaVen South Beach. The one-of-a-kind dining series has brought some of Miami and the Beaches’ most talented chefs together to celebrate the Miami Spice Restaurant Program. Savvy diners have the month of September to enjoy three-course meals accessibly priced at $23 per person for lunch and $39 per person for dinner.

Seating is limited to 40 guests. Reservations must be made in advance by calling (305) 695-4550. Lure Fishbar is located in the Loews Miami Beach Hotel at 1601 Collins Avenue. Cocktail reception will begin at 7 p.m.; dinner service will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. For more information on Miami Spice please visit iLoveMiamiSpice.com.

Chili Cook-Off 2/7/15

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Chili Cook-Off
Saturday, 02/07/2015 – 02/07/2015 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm
Chili-Cook-OffPinecrest Gardens
11000 Red Road,
Pinecrest, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $5 General Admission, Children Under 2 Free

The Gardens is pleased to announce the return of the popular Chili Cook-Off. Get your ten-gallon hat and cowboy boots on and enjoy an afternoon of cooking competition at its best. Restaurants, caterers and novices compete for the title of “Best Chili in Town”. Enjoy country music provided by “18 Wheelers” and Kiss Country Radio 99.9 FM, refresh yourself with a good brew, enjoy line dancing, children’s activities, mechanical bull rides and much more. This is a professional and an amateur-friendly cook-off, so dust off your apron, grab your spices, and let’s get cookin’!

National Waffle Day Celebration at Love is Blind 8/24/14

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National Waffle Day Celebration at Love is Blind
Sunday, 08/24/2014 – 11:00 am – 04:00 pm
unnamedLove is Blind
225 Altara Ave,
Miami, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost:

Love is Blind Food and Wine sets out to celebrate National Waffle Day with its tasty brunch selections. Join us on August 24th as we sip on .99 cent mimosas and chow down on their mouth-watering chicken and waffles. Made with fluffy Belgium waffles, tender chicken breasts, garnished with powdered sugar and topped with a crowd favorite, bacon.

If chicken and waffles aren’t your forte, never fear because they’ll be serving their other delicious brunch choices such as the Short Rib Benedict and Triple-Decker Hangover Wrecker. As you enjoy the cozy and warm ambiance and fill up on cocktails and brunch items, a DJ will be spinning the best tunes to get everyone in the celebration spirit.

Love is Blind is a go-to brunch spot and National Waffle Day is the perfect excuse to come try it out for yourself.

Back 2 School Bites with Chef Richard Ingraham, Bloomingdales, The Fresh Market & Common Threads 8/20/14

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Back 2 School Bites with Chef Richard Ingraham, Bloomingdales, The Fresh Market & Common Threads
Wednesday, 08/20/2014 – 06:00 pm – 07:00 pm
Aug-20-InviteBloomingdales at the Falls
8778 SW 136th Street.,
Miami, Florida 33176
More Info Link
Cost: Free, limited seating

Chef Richard Ingraham, Private Chef to Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade will help you think outside your lunch box during a fun culinary demo on healthy lunch ideas sponsored by Common Threads and The Fresh Market. Bloomingdales will donate 10% of tracked sales. Please respond by RSVPMiami@bloomingdales.com or 305-792-1211.

Where to be: 8/15-8/21

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moojsdkjsadhk

Here at In The Loop, we know there are always places to be and events to attend. Each Friday, we feature a special “where to be” post on our blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community and learn and commemorate some influential people and events around Miami! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @Loop305 using #WhereToBe hash tag!

Friday, August 15, 2014 6:00pm – 3:00am

A Caffeinated Friday Night

Cafeina Wynwood Lounge

297 NW 23rd Street,

Miami, Florida 33127

Cost: FREE

Facebook Link

Saturday, August 16, 2014 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Downtown Hollywood Monthly Artwalk

Downtown Hollywood

Art and Entertainment District that stretches for several blocks along Harrison Street, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway,

Hollywood, Florida 33020

Cost: FREE

Webpage Link

Sunday, August 17, 2014 11:00am

Gables Bike Tour: Coral Rocks!

Coral Gables Museum

285 Aragon Ave. Coral Gables, FL

Price: $10

http://coralgablesmuseum.org

Monday, August 18, 2014

Magnum Mondays with DJ Obscene

STK Miami

2377 Collins Ave.

Miami Beach, FL

Tuesday, August 19, 2014 2:00pm – 11:00pm

Samba & a Movie

Sushi Samba

180 Aragon Avenue – in the Westin Colonnade Hotel,

coral gables, Florida 33134

Cost: $39

Webpage Link

Wednesday, August 20, 2014 11:00pm

Ladies Night

Jazid

1342 Washington Ave.

Miami Beach, FL

Cost: FREE

Thursday, August 21, 2014 8:00pm

Metal Meets Wood

Wood Tavern

2531 NW 2nd Ave.

Miami, FL

Cost: FREE

Samba and a Movie 8/19/14

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Samba and a Movie
Tuesday, 08/19/2014 – 04:15 pm – 08:45 pm
Screen-Shot-2014-08-13-at-4.14.49-PMSushiSamba
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $39.00

SushiSamba and the Coral Gables Art Cinema have partnered up for the sophomore edition of “Samba & A Movie,” a monthly dinner and movie series. For $39, guests can enjoy a 3-course prix-fixe dinner along with a showing of the feature, “Magic in the Moonlight” (movie ticket included) before or after their film. The event will take place on Tuesday, August 19. Available showings include 4:15, 6:30 & 8:45.

Cheat Day 8/19/14

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Cheat Day
Tuesday, 08/19/2014 – 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Cheat-Day-Islandic-LogoBatch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

Batch Gastropub is at it again with another must go to event. On August 19th, join the Batch family as they kick-off Cheat Day; a monthly networking event for health conscience individuals where local vendors will be giving away samples and goodies of their latest healthy products for all attendees to try. Total Nutrition Miami, Redbike Studios, Iceland Glacial, Cold Pressed Raw and Boca Tanning club will make the kick off event one you don’t want to miss.

August Sushi Tasting 8/19/14

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August Sushi Tasting
Tuesday, 08/19/2014 – 06:30 pm –
GSP2895Tsukuro
225 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
Webpage Link
Cost: $55.00

Join us Tuesday, August 19 as we present our August Sushi Menu Tasting, featuring a dozen of our Specialty Rolls, paired with a selection of fine wine.

Our featured Sushi Selections include Caviar Roll, Crispy Yellowtail, Dancing Eel, Endless Summer, Fire + Ice, Heart Breaker, King Crab, Mango, Over the Moon, Spider Roll, Square Sushi, and Volcano Roll. Wine Pairings Include: A by Acacia Un-oaked Chardonnay, Sterling Napa Sauvignon Blanc, Stellina Di Notte Pinot Grigio, Chateau Minuty Dry Rose, and Chalone Monterey Pinot Noir

This exclusive experience is limited to 16 guests.
RSVP is required. $55.00 per person, all inclusive
RSVP to :: Dine@TsukuroFL.com or Call 954.523.1407

Where to be: 8/8-8/14

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looplpoo

Here at In The Loop, we know there are always places to be and events to attend. Each Friday, we feature a special “where to be” post on our blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community and learn and commemorate some influential people and events around Miami! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @Loop305 using #WhereToBe hash tag!

Friday, August 8, 2014 5:30pm

Ladies Night Happy Hour

The Bar

172 Giralda Ave.

Coral Gables, FL

Cost: Free

The Bar

Saturday, August 9, 2014 10:00am – 2:30pm

6th Annual Family and Health Community Festival

Pompano Citi Center

1955 North Federal Highway,

Pompano Beach, Florida 33062

Cost: Free

Webpage Link

Sunday, August 10, 2014 11:00am – 4:00pm

Sunday Brunch at Gigi’s

Gigi

3470 N. Miami Ave.

Miami, FL

Gigi

Monday, August 11, 2014 9:00pm

Rootsy Juicy Reggae

Purdy Lounge

1811 Purdy Ave.

Miami Beach, FL

Cost: Free

Purdy Lounge

Tuesday, August 12, 2014 6:30pm – 9:00pm

Art/Work Connections Seminar 22

Kroma Gallery

3670 Grand Ave

Miami, FL 33133, Map

Tickets $10 at the door

Please pre-register

Wednesday, August 13, 2014 5:30pm – 8:30pm

Call To All Artist Open Call to Performing Arts Conservatory

Teatro Prometeo

300 ne second avenue

Miami, Florida 33132

Cost: $15

Webpage Link

Thursday, August 14, 2014 2:00pm – 8:00pm

Grove Green Market Famers Market

3496 Main Highway

Coconut Grove, FL

 
 

80s 90s & Today Comes to Brickell 8/16/14

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80s 90s & Today Comes to Brickell
Saturday, 08/16/2014 – 10:00 pm – 05:00 am
cuxrFX4VLpwR_KzlpFmFi7zzHuL0ukE7emDSu0eBI_IBatch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

A unique late night experience kicking off August 16th
and continuing every Saturday after. A DJ will spin the best hits over the span of 3 decades, creating a wonderful atmosphere for patrons of all ages. Expect exciting social experiences along with it like a photo booth with ridiculous props. Batch Gastropub takes pride in creating a neighborhood hangout and they hope this weekly event
brings together a fun mixture of locals.

5K Park Fest 11/2/14

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5K Park Fest
Sunday, 11/02/2014 – 11/02/2014 06:00 am – 04:00 pm
5KPublicCalendarNorth Shore Bandshell Park
7275 Collins Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost:

The 5K Park Fest is a one-of-a-kind, award winning fundraising event that inspires people to PARK for the cause that moves them.

The award winning 5K PARK Fest – a revolutionary, one-of-a-kind, large scale community event that serves as a vehicle for all students to gain hands-on service learning, community hours and fundraise for their school, club or favorite non-profit organization. The 5K PARK Fest donates half of every parkticipant’s $40 Registration fee directly to that individual’s cause of choice. The inaugural event aims to have at least 5,000 service-driven people celebrating their fundraising achievements as well as promoting a healthy & active lifestyle.

Join us on November 2nd to make your mark and PARK.

Batch Gatropub will have you doing touch down dances this Football Season 8/23/14

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Batch Gatropub will have you doing touch down dances this Football Season
Saturday, 08/23/2014 – 02/01/2015 03:30 pm –
Batch-Football-FlyerBatch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

“Why stay home? Join Brickell’s go-to hotspot for all things football and delectable dining”

Miami, FL — August 4, 2014 — Ready, Set, Hike! Football season is quickly approaching and Batch Gastropub is prepping to be Brickell’s go-to bar. The friendly gastropub aims to satisfy everyone’s pallet offering breakfast and lunch and a special gridiron menu featuring gameday favorites every Saturday and Sunday. Batch also features a full bar including 14 craft beers on tap, 21 in bottles, signature cocktails and an expansive wine list. Batch will have food and beverage specials during all Saturday NCAA games and Sunday/Monday football games. Batch is also taking aim at Monday Night Football and will feature aggressive specials only available on that night.

“We want to create a comfortable atmosphere for all customers”, said owner, Kevin Danilo , “Our entire concept revolves around being able to create great guest experiences across a wide demographic”

Staying true to its mantra, Batch has created an atmosphere for fans of all teams, showcasing every game on its 15 flat screen TV’s and 2 large projector screens. Batch created a specific website, www.batchmiami.com/football, which will be launching in mid August and which will allow guests to know what game will be shown on what TV and which game’s audio will be playing. Guests will be able to check the site at the start of each week, find out where in the venue their favorite team is going to be shown and call to reserve a specific tables.

“A lot of our customers mentioned it was hard finding a place to watch their hometown team so they just stayed home, so we wanted to create a way for them to comfortably watch their team at Batch.” Danilo said

Batch is located at 30 SW 12th St, Miami, FL 33130. Hours of operation: 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily. Metered street parking is available.

Learn more about Batch Gastropub at www.batchmiami.com or call for information and reservations (305) 808-5555

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Pub-Shaker / Miami Spice Pop-Up Dinner

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Pub-Shaker Miami Spice Pop Up

Miami Spice Pop Up series are nothing new for the Pubbelly Boys. In years past, they have teamed up with guest chefs such as Giorgio Rapicavoli and Makoto Okuwa. These one night only events have been overwhelmingly successful with guests lining out the door. This year, the PB crew decided to take a different approach, one that will surely satisfy your cocktail craving.

Without further ado – Pub-Shaker. That’s right… A sharing style menu created by Jose Mendin and James Seyba The Broken Shaker along with a cocktail menu pairing flight created by Elad Zvi & Gabe Orta. Mark your calendars for August 27th and cancel any previous plans. Tickets go on sale Monday at www.pubbellyboys.com. More info below.

pubshaker-big

Via Chat Chow

Photographs of the 2nd Miami New Times Iron Fork Miami Spice Grand Tasting on 7/31/14

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The Second Miami New Times Iron Fork Miami Spice Grand Tasting at Hyatt Regency Miami on Thursday, July 31, 2014.  I had so much fun, I think this years was my favorite, great food and an awesome space.  Miami New Times Once Again Joins Miami Spice as the Official Kickoff Host for the Dining Season.

About Miami Spice: The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau organizes Miami Spice, a mouthwatering restaurant promotion that showcases the best of Miami cuisine. During August and September, restaurants offer three-course meals featuring signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs. It’s a tropical fusion of ingredients that makes Miami an epicurean paradise.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Digest Miami hosts Private Belgian Beer Dinner at BE Bistro

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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.

Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-11

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

Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-15

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.

Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-65

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.

Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-46 Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-43 Digest-Miami-BE-Bistro-42

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.

MIAMI Magazine Presents To Live & Dine 7/30/14

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MIAMI Magazine Presents To Live & Dine
Wednesday, 07/30/2014 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
liveThe Moore Building
191 NE 40th Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link
Cost: 50

Experience the best of Miami’s culinary scene at the sixth annual “To Live & Dine” foodie fete celebrating MIAMI magazine’s July/August Restaurant Issue in the historic Moore Building. The signature affair entertains the city’s culinary elite with mouthwatering fare from 20 of the top restaurants and chefs featured in “The Fifty Finest.” Tastemakers flow from experience to experience, indulging in decadent bites while sipping creative cocktails from Bombay Sapphire, VOGA Italia, and Onli Beverages, seeing the latest models from Pines Lincoln, trying the “Choose your Brew” Keurig station, and taking their photo in the Perry Ellis iPic Photobooth. Plus, for the first time ever, restaurants from past events will return in our “Hall of Fame.”

For the third year, MIAMI magazine will join forces with Chapman Partnership to give guests the chance to eat up and give back! Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the onsite food drive and 100% of proceeds from an on-site raffle featuring restaurant gift certificates, getaways, and a new K65 special edition Keurig will benefit the organization.

This year’s line-up includes:

1826 Restaurant & Lounge
Area 31 (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
Azul
BLT Prime
Bocce Bar
DB Bistro Moderne (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
DiLido Beach Club (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
Earls Kitchen + Bar
Florida Cookery (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
Il Sole at the Villa
Khong River House (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
La Mar by Gaston Acurio
Lorenzo Miami
Michael Mina 74
Palme D’Or
Shikany
Siena Tavern Miami
The Dutch (Hall of Fame Restaurant)
Toro Toro
Via Verdi Cucina Rustica

Note: Tickets are non-refundable. This is a 21+ event.

Recap / June’s Miami Spice Mash-Up

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The 13th Annual Miami Spice Restaurant program kicks off in just a few weeks on August 1. This year to celebrate, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) launched a series of special of monthly Miami Spice Mash-Ups, where chefs collaborate for a one-night only dinner and prepare dishes from their upcoming Spice menus.

On Wednesday, June 25, J&G Grill at St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort kicked off the series with its Chef de Cusine Brad Kilgore and pastry chef Antonio Bachour creating a six-course menu with visiting Chef Jose Mendin of the Pubbelly family of restaurants.

The intimate dinner showcased the creativity of these chefs with dishes such as Local Poussin, “Saucisson de Lyon,” Five Spice, Chard Walnut Emulsion from Kilgore, Pork Cheeks, Asparagus, Mushroom Dirt, Parmesan Cheese and Pickled Mushrooms from Mendin; and Salted Honey Yogurt, Candied Tomatoes, Greek Yogurt Custard, Strawberries, and Yogurt Sponge Cake from Bachour. Guests also enjoyed cocktails from Botran Rum and beers from Stella Artois.

Check out more highlights from the video above and make sure not to miss the next Miami Spice Mash-Up on Thursday, July 24 at 8 p.m., when chef Clayton Miller of 50 Eggs and Todd Erickson of HaVen Gastro-Lounge team up at Swine Southern Table & Bar. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased here www.50eggsinc.com/chefs.

Via Chat Chow

Surrealist Macchialina Bar Take Over 7/24/14

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Surrealist Macchialina Bar Take Over
Thursday, 07/24/2014 – 07/25/2014 11:00 pm – 02:00 am
MacchialinaMacchialina
820 Alton Road,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

Macchialina’s 3rd-ever bar takeover series features guest bartender Adam DelGiudice of The Regent Cocktail Room. The theme is “A Surrealist Dream” so be ready for a midsummer nights dream!

Join us for $10 cocktails, featuring amaro’s, aromatized wines and other surprises from an ice luge and other wild things. 1826’s Danny Grant is taking over the kitchen to create bites for you to dream about for days…

Planet Kitchen Food and Wellness Tour

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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. 

Planet-Kitchen-138

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” →

SUSHISAMBA Sushi & Sake 1001 7/29/14

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SUSHISAMBA Sushi & Sake 1001
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 07/29/2014 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Omakase-lowresSUSHISAMBA
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85

Sushi & Sake 101 is a two-part class that is part sake tasting, part sushi-making. The first half introduces essential sake facts and its history, while the second half is a hands-on sushi making tutorial with the head sushi chef. Classes are intimate with no more than 25 guests.

Essensia Pre-Spice Summer Menu Release 7/9/14

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Essensia Pre-Spice Summer Menu Release
Wednesday, 07/09/2014 – 07/31/2014 05:00 pm –
essensiaThe Palms Hotel and Spa
3025 Collins Ave,
Miami, Florida 33140
Webpage Link
Cost: $39

This summer before Miami opens its restaurant doors to celebrate Miami Spice month, Essensia of the Palms Hotel and Spa will be giving an exclusive sneak preview to their menu. With a variety of local and farm fresh ingredients Chef Julia and her team have put together a tantalizing menu for the pre-Miami spicers both experienced and non-experienced for $39.00 (not including gratuity and tax). Essensia provides flavorful and local food provided by South Florida.

Yoga Dinner 7/9/14

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Yoga Dinner
Wednesday, 07/09/2014 – 08/27/2014 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
The-Palms-Hotel-and-SpaThe Palms Hotel and Spa
3025 Collins Ave,
Miami, Florida 33140
Webpage Link
Cost: $35-45

The Palms Hotel and Spa kicks in the mid-summer with the trifold event “Flourish.” This event includes an enlightening yoga class on the Palms’ beautiful and lush south lawn. Then Chef Julie Frans of the hotel restaurant Essensia, will provide a healthy and flavorful post-yoga meal. The entire packages in advance is $35, then $45 at the door, and $20 for kids ages 6-15. Valet parking is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Biking, walking, jogging, or carpooling is encouraged.
Purchase tickets in advance at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/753204.
For more information check: http://blog.thepalmshotel.com/food-beverage/find-your-center-every-wednesday-at-the-palms-hotel-spa/#sthash.7VPJTlv8.dpuf

July Sushi Tasting at Tsukuro 7/15/14

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July Sushi Tasting at Tsukuro
Tuesday, 07/15/2014 – 06:30 pm – 09:00 pm
GSP2895Tsukuro
225 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
Webpage Link
Cost: $55.00

Part II of Tsukuro’s Sushi Menu Tasting, featuring a dozen of their latest Specialty Rolls, paired with a selection of fine wine. Featured Sushi Selections include: KC Roll, Mango Roll, Dancing Eel, Venetian Roll, Volcano Roll, Heart Breaker, Fire + Ice, Square Sushi, Bejeweled, Salmon Tempura, Vegetable Roll and Spicy Tuna. Featured Wines include Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne, Josh Cellars Chardonnay, Murrieta’s Well’s “The Whip,” and Kunde Zinfandel.

This exclusive experience is limited to 16 guests. RSVP to Dine@TsukuroFL.com or Call 954-523-1407.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille West Palm Beach 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-44BRIO Tuscan Grille
550 South Rosemary Ave.,
West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille Palm Beach Gardens 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-45BRIO Tuscan Grille
3101 PGA Blvd.,
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille Pembroke Pines 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-42BRIO Tuscan Grille
14576 SW 5th Street,
Pembroke Pines, Florida 33082
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille Boca Raton 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-43BRIO Tuscan Grille
5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 239,
Boca Raton, Florida 33486
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille Hallandale Beach 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-41BRIO Tuscan Grille
600 Silks Run, Suite 1205,
Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille at The Falls 7/29/14

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National Lasagna Day at BRIO Tuscan Grille
Tuesday, 07/29/2014 – 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
Lasagna-Bolognese-Al-Forno-4BRIO Tuscan Grille
8888 SW 136 Street,
Miami, Florida 33176
Webpage Link
Cost:

BRIO Tuscan Grille will celebrate National Lasagna Day, July 29, 2014, with full-sized portions of lasagna at lunch or dinner at half price. BRIO offers Lasagna Bolognese Al Forno, oven-baked and layered with authentic Bolognese meat sauce, Alfredo sauce, Ricotta and Mozzarella cheeses. Normally priced at $18.15 for lunch and dinner, the full-sized portion only will be available all day on July 29 for $9.08.

Full Moon Beach Party | Celebrity Chef Ralph Pagano Grand Opening of Ferris Restaurant 7/12/14

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Full Moon Beach Party | Celebrity Chef Ralph Pagano Grand Opening of Ferris Restaurant
Saturday, 07/12/2014 – 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm
unnamedSole on the Ocean Hotel
17315 Collins Ave,
Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Moonshine will stay true to the tradition of a full moon celebration, featuring captivating performances by an authentic Drum Circle, fire dancers, DJ and more, while adding a posh twist. The event will take place beachside complete with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, exquisite décor and a fire pit. Guest will enjoy shellfish favorites such as oysters, stone crabs, shrimp and more from the resorts unique beachside raw bar or opt to choose a culinary treat from the specialty menu curated by celebrity chef Ralph Pagano, who will be celebrating and hosting the grand-opening of Ferris, the chefs newest restaurant located inside of Sole on the Ocean

Philip McDaniel / St. Augustine Distiller

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Florida is having a spirits renaissance thanks in part to the St. Augustine Distillery. Chat Chow TV sat down the distillery’s president and founding partner Philip McDaniel to found out more about the new craft distillery, its historic location and how it is stepping up St. Augustine’s “cool” factor.

The distillery is the brain child of McDaniel and his fellow founding partner Ryan Dettra who were looking for new projects to take on in their adopted hometown of St. Augustine. They were intrigued by the idea of bringing a distillery to the area and went around the country researching and discovering the best practices on how to do so.

They partnered up with Master Distiller David Pickerell, who has more than 30 years of experience in the distillery industry under his belt with brands like Maker’s Mark, and used some of Florida’s abundant produce like sugarcane, corn and wheat, to create their spirits. The first one created was vodka, followed by the recently released gin along with rum that will be coming in early 2015. Bourbon is also in production and once released will be Florida’s first bourbon.

The distillery is housed in the historic FP&L Ice Plant right in the heart of the historic St. Augustine beach area. It is easily accessible by trolley and tour buses and provides free tours daily where guests can learn more about the plant, its process, sample some product and purchase it if so desired.

Curious who Ella and Bessy are? Or what goes into the distillery’s signature Florida Mule? Find out all that and more in the video above.

Via Chat Chow TV

Watch The Cup Wynwood Stadium at Mana Wynwood The Biggest Viewing Party In Miami 7/1/14-7/13/14

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Watch The Cup Wynwood Stadium at Mana Wynwood The Biggest Viewing Party In Miami
Tuesday, 07/01/2014 – 07/13/2014 11:00 am – 08:00 pm
photo-2Watch The Cup Wynwood Stadium
2nd Ave. & 23rd Street,
Miami, Florida 33127
Webpage Link
Cost: FREE

Wynwood Has Caught World Cup Fever Launching “Watch The Cup Wynwood Stadium at Mana Wynwood” The Biggest Viewing Party In Miami!

Watch The Cup sure won’t disappoint with it’s 35,000 square feet pop-up-stadium, filled with food trucks, HDTV’s, a 240 inch LED Screen, free entrance, free beer for the first 500 guests and much more!

Watch The Cup Wynwood Stadium at Mana Wynwood, a pop up stadium in the heart of Wynwood is set to open its doors July 1st, 2014, launching the biggest World Cup viewing party Miami has seen, just in time to root on team USA. It’s 35,000 square feet will be filled with food trucks, bars, bleachers, pool ball, lounge seating, live entertainment, HDTV’s and a 240 inch LED screen, allowing guests to feel as if they were in Rio.

Watch The Cup will be giving away Free Beer to the first 500 guests who RSVP online, starting Tuesday, July 1st, 2014.

Tuesday July 1, 11 am-8 pm. Matches: Argentina vs. Switzerland, USA vs. Belgium

Friday July 4, 11 am-8 pm. Matches: TBA vs. TBA, Brazil vs. Colombia (Quarter-Finals)

Saturday July 5, 11 am-8 pm. Matches: TBA vs. TBA, Netherlands vs. Costa Rica (Quarter Finals)

Tuesday July 8, 2 pm – 8 pm. Match: TBA vs. TBA (Semi-Finals)

Wednesday July 9, 2 pm – 8 pm. Match: TBA vs. TBA (Semi-Finals)

Saturday July 12, 2 pm – Midnight. Match: TBA vs. TBA (3rd Place Match)

The celebration will continue till the finals on July 13, 2014.

Watch The Cup is located at 2nd Ave & 23 Street 
Miami, FL 33127. Reservations can be made online at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/watch-the-cup-july-1st-4pm-usa-vs-belgium-tickets-12063958625?aff=es2&rank=3; for more information visit; www.WatchTheCup.com

Not Your Mama’s Cooking Fourth of July Celebration + World Cup Viewing Party 7/4/14

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“Not Your Mama’s Cooking!” Fourth of July Celebration + World Cup Viewing Party
Friday, 07/04/2014 – 07/05/2014 11:30 am – 05:00 am
bf65b3e3-a35d-4da4-b630-48c745ea0663Batch Gastropub
30 SW 12th Street,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost: FREE

“Not your Mama’s Cooking!” Fourth of July Celebration with Picnic-Style, Comfort Food and a Gastronomic Twist!

Brickell’s neighborhood gastro pub is set to celebrate 4th of July with an authentic all American picnic style, comfort food menu with a gastronomic twist.

Guests will indulge in delectable items such as Corn on the cob with cotija cheese, buffalo sauce powder, lemon zest; House smoked ribs served with jalapeño cole slaw & pickles; Chicken and biscuits with Carolina gold sauce and All American Desserts; definitely “Not your Mama’s Cooking!”

Merging its celebration with the World Cup, Batch Miami will also be showing the Brazil vs. Colombia game; guests can enjoy its signature drink the Batchito during the game for only $7.50.

WHEN: July 4, 2014

WHERE: Batch Gastro Pub
30 South West 12 Street
Miami FL 33130

Reservations: http://www.batchmiami.com

Miami Culinary Tours: Wynwood Food and Art Tour

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Today my wife and I did the Wynwood Food and Art Tour in Miami. This is a weekly event done by Miami Culinary Tours and is one of many versions around Miami set up to help you appreciate what the city has to offer. You can read a detailed review over at my DailyBeerReview.com website, but I decided to post an extensive gallery of photos here for you to see. Check out this and some of the other tours available! Enjoy!

Where to be: 6/27-7/3

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Here at In The Loop, we know there are always places to be and events to attend. Each Friday, we feature a special “where to be” post on our blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community and learn and commemorate some influential people and events around Miami! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @Loop305 using #WhereToBe hashtag!

6/27/14 6:00pm-11:00pm

Sagamore, The Art Hotel

1671 Collins Avenue

Miami Beach, FL 33139

Beats N’ Bubbles Spectacle Recordings Launch Event

RSVP: Facebook

6/28/14 1:00pm-2:00pm

Pérez Art Museum Miami

1103 Biscayne Blvd,

Miami, Florida 33132

PAMM Art Storytime

More info: Webpage Link

6/29/14 11:00am-5:00pm

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

1300 Biscayne Blvd

Miami, FL 33132

Social Media Day Miami 2014

Register: Website

6/30/14 9:30am-4:30pm

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

10901 Old Cutler Road

Coral Gables, FL

Butterfly Conservatory

More info: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

7/1/14 7:00pm-10:00pm

The Cabaret South Beach

233 12th Street

Miami Beach, FL

Ricky Williams

7/2/14 8:30pm

Intercontinental at Doral Miami

2505 NW 87 Avenue

Doral, Florida 33172

Los Caballeros Las Prefieren Brutas Comedy

More info: Facebook Link

7/3/14 8:00pm

John Martin’s Irish Pub

253 Miracle Mile

Coral Gables, FL

Team Trivia Thursdays

Photographs of Coral Gables Restaurant Week Blogger’s Crawl by Mr Q 305

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Recently, the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables invited Miami food bloggers to participate in a crawl of some of the restaurants participating in the hugely successful Coral Gables Restaurant Week, now in its seventh year.
The evening began with all the bloggers, more than sixteen of us, meeting at Swine Southern Table and Bar. There, we got to sample two of their signature drinks, the Swine Old-Fashioned: Bacon washed old overholt rye, maple syrup, house-made swine bitters and an Old Cuban: Eigth year old Bacardi, mint, lime, Delamotte  Champagne and angostura bitters. During cocktails they brought out the appetizer: Deviled Crab Hush Puppies with pickled celery and smoked trout roe. These Puppies were so full of flavor, I could’ve happily stay there just eating them the whole evening but, the best was yet to come, as an entrée we had the Smoked Brisket Steak covered with a delicious molasses glaze accompanied by stoneground grits, pickled corn and cheddar relish. This brisket was crisp on the outside and so moist on the inside, the meat just melted to the taste. I’ll be dreaming about it until I get back to Swine!
We had to move on…our next stop was Talavera Cocina Mexicana where they extended out the red carpet for us in typical Mexican hospitality fashion.
At Talavera Mexican Cuisine, the welcome cocktail was Pueblito Viejo: Corzo Reposado tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, sugar, crushed mint served over ice. It is refreshingly sweet and goes down so easy!. The menu featured an appetizer consisting of Gordita Conchinita Pibil: (pulled pork) in a corn masa tortilla with a dry rub of chiles and spices. The taste of toasted corn of the tortillas combined with the flavor of the tender piglet was so pleasing to the taste buds, add to that the hint of chiles and you have the perfect appetizer.
Next were Enchilada Suizas: pulled white meat chicken inside a corn tortilla with poblano cream sauce and tomatillo salsa, topped with Oaxaca cheese and baked, served with crema Mexicana and cilantro. Hot, chewy, soft and delcious!
The second entree was Camarones al Ajillo: sautéed shrimp in a garlic sauce with dried guajillo chiles served with rice and watercress. The shrimp were so fresh and they had just the right touch of garlic. The rice complemented the dish so very well.
For dessert it was Crepas de Cajeta: crepes covered in Cajeta served with walnuts and vanilla ice cream. If you haven’t had this dessert I urge to go to Talavera and try it. You’ll thank me later.
The portions at Talavera were very generous and we were beginning to exhibit signs of food exhaustion but we marched on…
The next one up was Divino Ceviche where they welcomed us with a that typical Peruvian drink known as the Pisco Sour: Pisco, lemon juice, sugar and  angostura bitters topped with a frothy egg white meringue sprinkled with cinnamon…ooh so good…! there were Camote (Sweet Potato) Chips ready to be dipped in Aji Amarillo or Salsa de Huacatay accompanied by Canchas (Roasted Corn).
The hot appetizer consisted of Pulpo (Octopus) in Salsa Anticuchera. The octopus was lightly crunchy with a very pleasing smoky flavor.  For entree we were served the Trio de Ceviches consisting of Ceviche Tradicional,  Ceviche Divino (the Chef’s specialty) and Ceviche al Olivo. These Ceviches are made with slices of fresh fish and or whole shrimp marinated lightly in lime juice and seasoned with Peruvian limo chili, fresh cilantro and onion; garnished with sweet potato and choclo (Peruvian giant corn), the Ceviche Divino also has mango and avocado. The ceviche is so good that one of the bloggers proclaimed “the best ceviche she had ever had”, I concur.
For dessert, Mousse de Maracuyá (Passion Fruit) and Mousse de Chirimoya (Custard Apple). These are delicate mousses with a refreshing tropical flavor.
From Divino Ceviche we were on to Tarpon Bend for a glass of prosecco and to sample their Braised Short Rib. These ribs are braised for four hours and they are all flavor.
Finally we ended the crawl at Cibo Wine Bar where they started with a wonderfully soft and fresh Burrata and robust yet light Prosciutto di Parma, followed by Arancini: Rice balls stuffed with ragu and melted mozzarella.
The Grilled Whole Octopus with mixed greens, diced tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice was amazing!
The Pappardelle with slow cooked lamb ragu covered with pecorino shavings was so delicate and yet robust that it didn’t matter how full I was, I still wanted more.
As if all that wasn’t enough they brought out a Black Tiger Shrimp in a wine garlic tomato sauce that was simply out of this world.
After an incredible twelve different courses, three dessert and five different drinks we were all exhausted, happy and ready to go home. It was an incredible experience!
You are still in time to try out the Gables Restaurant Week Menu but you better hurry because it ends June 29th.

Catch up with Mr Q 305 on faceboook   Twitter   Instagram

Here are the images:

Brother Jimmy’s Miami BBQ Restaurants Announces Opening of 3rd South Florida Location At Dolphin Mall 6/27/14

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Brother Jimmy’s Miami BBQ Restaurants Announces Opening of 3rd South Florida Location At Dolphin Mall
Friday, 06/27/2014 – 06/28/2014 05:00 pm – 10:00 pm
BrotherJImmysDolphin-FLyerBrother Jimmy’s Miami BBQ
Dolphin Mall 11401 N.W. 12th Street,
MIami, Florida 33172
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Weekend of Opening Festivities for the Family including a Children’s Fashion Show, and live performance by Spam All-Stars!

Starting Friday, June 27th and continuing through the weekend, Brother Jimmy’s Miami BBQ Restaurants will debut the opening of its 3rd location in South Florida at Dolphin Mall, 11401 N.W. 12th Street. (For those who can’t wait, we hear Brother Jimmy’s will have their doors open for preview dining starting on June 23rd!)

Grab the family, strap on the dancin’ boots and come with an appetite for BBQ. Grand opening festivities for the whole family include mechanical bull rides, and a live DJ starting the party 5pm-10pm on Friday, June 27 for dinner.

All day on Saturday June 28TH, starting at noon, Brother Jimmy’s Miami will be serving up the Southern style BBQ it has become known for during lunch or dinner with the kids. (Kids Always Eat Free at Brother Jimmy’s!)

If your little one has always wanted to be a superstar, bring him to Brother Jimmy’s at Dolphin Mall to have their picture taken by Miami’s Talent & Model Group Agency for a possibility of starring in the Brother Jimmy’s Fashion shows at 2:30 and 4:30 on Saturday featuring fashions by Peace.Love.World – Kid’s will also have the possibility of receiving a year’s modeling contract!

If you’re interested in submitting your kid (Under 12) for the fashion show hosted by Miami’s Talent & Modeling Group Agency, please send your information and photos to info@Brotherjimmysmiami.com.

Keep the party going Saturday night with a live performance by widely known Miami local talent, Spam All-Stars, starting at 10pm!

WHAT/WHEN: Grand Opening Festivities:

Friday June 27; 5PM- 10PM Dinner
Mechanical Bull Rides – Live DJ

Saturday June 28; 12PM- 12AM Lunch or Dinner
Mechanical Bull Rides, Children’s Line Dancing Lessons
Children’s Fashion Show Hosted by Miami’s Talent & Model Agency
Live performance by Spam All-Stars

WHERE: Brother Jimmy’s BBQ – Dolphin Mall 11401 N.W. 12th Street

The Second Miami New Times Iron Fork Miami Spice Grand Tasting 7/31/14

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Miami New Times Iron Fork/Miami Spice Kickoff Event
Iron ForkThursday, July 31, 2014
VIP: 6 – 7 p.m.
GA: 7 – 10 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Miami
400 SE 2nd Ave.
Miami, FL 33131
Tickets: VIP: $75 advance, $100 at the door
GA: $45 advance, $65 at the door
BUY NOW: Prices increase July 1. Tickets can be purchased at NewTimesIronFork.com.

Miami New Times Once Again Joins Miami Spice as the Official Kickoff Host for the Dining Season.
The Second Iron Fork/Miami Spice Grand Tasting Event Brings New Restaurants for an Exclusive Epicurean Evening

The seventh-annual Miami New Times Iron Fork, presented by the Downtown Miami Development Authority, will once again partner with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau to host the official Miami Spice Kickoff Event on Thursday, July 31, 2014, at the Hyatt Regency Miami. The second anniversary of this kickoff event will introduce dining enthusiasts to some of the finest restaurants featured during the Miami Spice program, as well as dozens of other top local eateries.

In 2013, Biz Bash selected the Iron Fork/Miami Spice Kickoff as one of the top 10 culinary events in South Florida, and this year the event has grown exponentially. It will bring culinary creations from more than 60 of South Florida’s luxury and fine-dining restaurants for sampling, some of which include Old Lisbon, Texas de Brazil, Bulla Gastrobar, Toscana Divino, Rusty Pelican, Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Tamara Bistro, Baires Grill, Toro Toro, City Hall, Cibo Wine Bar, The Trapiche Room, and many more.

In addition, Miami New Times is proud to announce that we’ve partnered with the charitable organization Share Our Strength to bring awareness of childhood hunger in America. You and your restaurant can be a part of the movement that brings food to the mouths of low-income children in Florida by participating in our kickoff event. A portion of ticket sales will also go to Share Our Strength, as well as 100 percent of the proceeds raised during a silent auction that will take place during the event. Many excellent prizes will be available and will go to the highest bidders.

The epicurean event will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. and will bring together thousands of young professionals, local businesses, and foodies for an evening of gourmet food selections, tasty
libations, and live entertainment. Guests who prefer a more intimate dining experience may purchase VIP tickets, which include entry to the event one hour early, at 6 p.m., and access to a private VIP bar and lounge that will feature exclusive entertainment and an elite selection of Miami’s best luxury dining restaurants. Tickets go on sale on Monday, June 2, 2014.

For more information, visit NewTimesIronFork.com or like us on Facebook at fb.com/miaminewtimes.

About Miami Spice
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau organizes Miami Spice, a mouthwatering restaurant promotion that showcases the best of Miami cuisine. During August and September, restaurants offer three-course meals featuring signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs. It’s a tropical fusion of ingredients that makes Miami an epicurean paradise.

About Share Our Strength
Share Our Strength began in the basement of a row house on Capitol Hill in 1984, in response to the ‘84-‘85 famine in Ethiopia. Brother and sister Bill and Debbie Shore started the organization with the belief that everyone has a strength to share in the global fight against hunger and poverty, and that in these shared strengths lie sustainable solutions. Today we focus these strengths on making No Kid Hungry a reality in America. We’re ending childhood hunger by connecting kids to effective nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals. This work is accomplished through the No Kid Hungry network, made up of private citizens, government officials, business leaders, and others providing innovative hunger solutions in their communities. These partners work together, implementing solutions that break down the barriers that keep kids from healthy food. Through its Cooking Matters program, the No Kid Hungry campaign educates and empowers low-income families to stretch their food budgets so their kids get healthy meals at home. Cooking Matters participants learn to shop strategically, use nutrition information to make healthier food choices, and cook delicious, affordable meals. The No Kid Hungry campaign works to shine a national spotlight on the crisis of childhood hunger in America, creating a powerful movement of individuals committed to bold action. We build partnerships that enlist influential individuals in the cause and advocate policy changes needed to achieve our goals.

About Miami New Times
Miami New Times began publishing in 1987 and has grown into the premier weekly publication in the American Southeast. Showcasing the talents of an accomplished editorial staff recruited from across the nation, the paper — which includes a web edition that draws a half-million readers per week — New Times has established a reputation for compelling stories ignored or overlooked by major media, for insightful coverage of local arts and entertainment, and for unflinching exposure of Miami’s steamy political life. That reputation for high-caliber journalism has spread beyond South Florida. The paper has won more than 90 first-place awards for editorial excellence, statewide and nationally.

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Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Tasting & Pairing at Oceanaire 6/18/14

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Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Tasting & Pairing at Oceanaire
Wednesday, 06/18/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
nicolasOceanaire
900 S Miami Ave, Ste. 111,
Miami, Florida 33130
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $55

The Oceanaire Seafood Room and Savor Tonight have partnered up to host a Champagne tasting at Oceanaire with Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte on Wed., June 17th. “Champagne” Wayne, Nicolas Feuillatte’s brand manager, has selected four Champagnes from his portfolio and they’ll be paired with gourmet bites from Chef Kareem.

The event will start with a welcome reception in the lounge area at 7:00 p.m., followed by a more formal, sit-down tasting event. Chef Kareem and “Champagne” Wayne will walk the group through the tasting.

Cost is $55. This include 4 food & Champagne pairings, tax & gratuity.

Pairing Menu

Maine Sea Scallop “Tiradito”
concha | chodo | ket roe | micro greens
paired with Nicholas Feuillatte Brut NV

Macadamia Crusted Lobster Tail
yuzu-champagne emulsion | bean sprouts | caramelized bananas
paired with Nicholas Feuillatte Blanc de Blanc 2006

Jerked Portuguese Octopus
kalamata olives |mimosa butter| sweet potatoes
paired with Nicholas Feuillatte Rose NV

Nutella Cheesecake
oreo cookie crumbs | fresh berries
paired with Nicholas Feuillatte D’luscious NV

Planet Kitchen Healthy Organic Food, Drink and Wellness Tour Experience 6/21/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
Planet Kitchen Healthy Organic Food, Drink and Wellness Tour Experience
planetkitchenSaturday, 06/21/2014 – 03:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Trio Yoga
2330 NE 2nd Ave, 
Miami, Florida 33137
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: 65.00

Join Planet Kitchen on June 21st 2014 from 3-8 pm to celebrate the maiden voyage of our action packed highly educational organic tour that showcases local farms, markets, restaurants and wellness businesses making real food, drinks, and healing us naturally a growing trend here in South Florida.

Come out and support the local community heroes taking our health and the health of the planet to the next level. Tickets are $65.00 with each participant receiving an EXCLUSIVE WELLNESS GIFT BAG.

Our tour begins at the wonderful Trio Yoga at 3:00pm for a demonstration on Acro and Aero yoga while enjoying a tasty treat prepared by our friends at Sambazon . We then whisk you away to Earth’n’ Us Farm to rekindle the connection we have with Mother Earth. Pet the animals, stroll through the gardens, visit the bee hives, check out the 3 story tree house and enjoy all that this wonderful oasis has to offer. It’s off to Choices Cafe – Upper East Side Miami to tickle our tastebuds with a mouth watering bite prepared with love and paired off with delicious organic wine provided by Girasole Vineyards. Our final stop takes us to Mi Vida Cafe, Vegan Cuisine where we have the pleasure of enjoying the food love they have to offer with Girasole Vineyards again pairing the food and wine deliciousness. On the bus we will be delighted by the tastes of OM Cocktails and other surprises await you.. Quinn Popcorn, Skoop, Essentia Water, SeedTabs, EnerBee.

2014 FIFA World Cup Drink Specials 6/12/14

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2014 FIFA World Cup Drink Specials
Thursday, 06/12/2014 – 06/13/2014 09:00 am – 11:00 pm
100 Montaditos Miami
551 Lincoln Rd, Space 2,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: free

Visit any 100 Montaditos Miami location for the following 2014 FIFA World Cup game-day specials:
Pitchers of Domestic beer (Bud/Bud Light) and Sangrias: $6.99
Pitchers of Imported beer (Estrella): $12.99
Buckets of 5 Domestic beers (Bud/Bud Light): $11.99
Buckets of Imported beer (Estrella): $19.99
Come by any of the Miami locations for any game, starting June 12th through July 13th.

Lincoln: 551 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach
Kendall: 10501 N.Kendall Dr, suite A-101, Miami
Midtown: 3252 N.E. 1st Avenue – Suite #104 – Miami
Coral Gables: 230 Coral Way, Coral Gables, Miami
Pinecrest:11421 South Dixie Hwy, Pinecrest, Florida
Sunset:5829 SW 73rd St South Miami

Father’s Day Brunch at Moreno’s Cuba and Riviera Hotel South Beach 6/15/14

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Father’s Day Brunch at Moreno’s Cuba and Riviera Hotel South Beach
Sunday, 06/15/2014 – 06/15/2014 11:00 am – 03:00 pm
morenos_fday-3Morenos Cuba and Riviera Hotel
318 20th St,
miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Join us this Sunday for Father’s Day Brunch at Moreno’s Cuba and Riviera Hotel South Beach..Showing of FIFA World Cup, Dominoes, Cigars, Tie Pancakes, Beer and Mojito Specials along with live Old School Cuban Music by Retro Son. What more can a Father ask for!

Josh Capon / Lure Fishbar

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With ocean views, a celebrity chef and the freshest seafood available, Lure Fishbar inside the Loews Miami Beach Hotel has quickly gained a large following since its opening in December 2013. Chat Chow TV sat down with Josh Capon, the Executive Chef and partner, to learn more about Lure, how it stacks up to the NYC outpost and what he has in store for Miami.

Lure Fishbar has been an institution in NYC for more than 10 years — it’s so popular in fact that their was a social media outcry when rumors circulated that it may be closing. While the original outpost is still very much in business, the owner of the Lowes had been a big fan of the restaurant and convinced Capon and his team to come down to Miami.

“We thought the space, the timing and location was perfect,” notes Capon. “And I think we’ve created something really special here.”

While the restaurant’s menu has many similarities to its NYC sister location, such as fresh seafood towers, sushi and its famous Bash Burger, the menu also features unique dishes that showcase European and Latin flavors like Seared Diver Sea Scallops with Steamed Clams and Chorizo and Steamed Red Snapper with served Veracruz style.

Heading up the bar program is bartending veteran Robert Ferrara, who has created a menu featuring creative cocktails filled with fresh ingredients that are perfect for its Miami Beach setting. Capon himself is a big fan.

“He’s constantly coming up with new, inventive seasonal cocktails that blow people away,” adds Capon. “He’s a huge talent, an absolute pleasure, and we’re very lucky to have him.”

Capon has plenty of exciting projects in the works, most notably his new half hour food competition show titled “Frankenfood” which just began to air on Spike TV this month.

Want to learn the secret to Capon’s award-winning Bash Burger? Or find out how to get yourself a (possibly) complimentary drink? Watch the video above to find out all of that and more.

Father’s Day @ Mayfair 6/15/14

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Father’s Day @ Mayfair
Sunday, 06/15/2014 – 11:30 am – 02:30 pm
Mayfair-Fathers-Day-Flyer-2014The Mayfair Hotel & Spa
3000 Florida Ave,
Miami, Florida 33131
Webpage Link
Cost: $28.95

Treat your father to a brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m at Spartico, located in the Mayfair Hotel and Spa, this Father’s Day. Included in the buffet are three stations: a cold, a hot and an omelette. The cold station includes domestic and imported cold cuts, cheese and a parfait station with tropical fruits and berries. The hot station includes buttermilk pancakes, Italian sausage, Apple Wood Smoked Bacon, croissants, muffins, danishes, steak and eggs and garlic and herb potatoes. The omelettes are specially cooked to your preferences.

Summer Shopping Soiree at Monc Boutique 6/25/14

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Summer Shopping Soiree at Monc Boutique
Wednesday, 06/25/2014 – 05:00 pm – 07:00 pm
Monc-Boutique-Summer-Event-1-flyerMonc Boutique
7222 Red Road,
Miami, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Monc Boutique, Miami’s mecca for affordable designer-inspired fashion and accessories, is teaming up with Nicole magazine to host a VIP summer shopping soirée on Wednesday, June 25th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Guests are invited mix and mingle for an exclusive sneak peak at Monc’s vibrant, summer collection, featuring hand-picked pieces from popular, independent designers and local labels, all priced under $100. Shoppers looking to “gently” loosen their purse strings will enjoy a special 20% discount on all purchases (excluding non-sale merchandise, jewelry and accessories).

To sustain their energy, guests are invited to indulge in complimentary cocktails, sugary confections and light bites, while browsing the hottest summer styles in Monc’s intimate, jewel box boutique.

50 Eggs Guest Chef Series returns with Chef Cesar Zapata of Phuc Yea! 6/26/14

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50 Eggs Guest Chef Series returns with Chef Cesar Zapata of Phuc Yea!
Thursday, 06/26/2014 – 07:30 pm –
Logo-50eggs1Khong River House
1661 Meridian Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $75 per person (excluding tax & gratuity)

The 50 Eggs Guest Chef Series, the one-of-a-kind culinary collaboration featuring acclaimed talents from within the industry, returns for a one-night-only collab with Chef Cesar Zapata of Phuc Yea! pop-up.

In the next enticing installment of the series, 50 Eggs Culinary Director, Clayton Miller, will team with Zapata to resurrect the Vietnamese-inspired, Phuc Yea!, with a five-course dinner complete with wine pairings that will feature an array of gourmet and street-inspired Asian delicacies.

Talk About it Tuesday: MIAMI SOUP

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miami soup logo

MIAMI SOUP is a grassroots model for funding small to medium-sized projects that enhance the quality of community life in Miami. MIAMI SOUP uses a simple method that brings together the community by serving them supper, soup, salad, bread and a beverage. These meals generate profits that will go directly back into the community.

The purchase of a meal gives the community member an opportunity to cast a vote for what they would like to see improved in the community. The money made from these meals goes directly towards the neighborhood issue that received the most votes. MIAMI SOUP brings people together and gives them chance to be directly involved in improving their communities.

MIAMI SOUP was created to make change easier and less complicated in communities. MIAMI SOUP allows for people to not only donate money, but to have their voices be heard about what they want to see change. MIAMI SOUP sparks dialogue between community members who may have normally not gotten together. MIAMI SOUP is also not affected by the restrictions laid out by private and governmental grants. This allows them to take on projects and make changes more efficiently.

Haven’t heard of MIAMI SOUP? Check them out here: MIAMI SOUP

And check out their next event, Thursday, July 10, 6:00pm-9:00pm, Grand Central, 697 North Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33136

What do you think about MIAMI SOUP? Tweet us at @Loop305 with the hash tag #TalkAboutitTuesday

 

-Samantha Wagner

A Night at the Jersey Shore – Bar Takeover at Macchialina 6/19/14

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A Night at the Jersey Shore – Bar Takeover at Macchialina
Thursday, 06/19/2014 – 06/20/2014 11:00 pm – 02:00 am
BarTakeoverFerraraMacchialina
820 Alton Road,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

Macchialina’s 2nd-ever bar takeover series features guest bartender Rob Ferrara of Lure Fishbar! The theme is “A Night at the Jersey Shore” so come sporting your Snooki poof and don’t forget to GTL!

Join us for $10 cocktails and Jersey Boardwalk specials on Thursday June 19th from 11pm – 2am.

Photographs of Taste of The Gables on 6/5/14 by Mr Q 305

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Taste of the Gables was back in a big way this past Thursday to kick off “Coral Gables Restaurant Week” at the Westin Colonnade. More than 20 Coral Gables Restaurant Week newcomers and veterans (among them previously reviewed in this column: Ikura Sushi Lounge, La Talavera and Divino Ceviche) prepared their best dishes and battled to be voted “Best Taste of the Gables”, the winning vote went to Uvaggio, 70 Miracle Mile. The event was presented by Bacardi USA Inc., there was plenty of food, drinks and activities, absolutely no one left with an empty stomach!

Mr Q 305 on facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Free Montadito Day 6/7/14

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“Free Montadito Day!”
Saturday, 06/07/2014 – 11:00 am – 12:00 am
The Fountains Mall Plantation
801 S University Dr,
Plantation, Florida 33324
Webpage Link
Cost:

100 Montaditos Plantation is giving away TWO FREE Montaditos to all customers that come into the restaurant! This Saturday, June 7, stop into the Fountains Mall location to enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine and your choice of two free sandwiches! We will be open from 11am – 12am at 801 S University Drive.

Photographs of La Tagliatella by Mr Q 305

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La Tagiatella…by the time you finish reading the name, as you enter through the glass doors, you have already stepped a few centuries back in time into a beautiful northern Italian castle.
The decor is simply breathtaking. Nothing has been overlooked in La Tagliatella’s rococo inspired interior. There is so much to see here that you could spend several days just discovering new details…
and then…there’s the food…
But before we get to that, keep in mind that La Tagliatella is part of a worldwide chain of more than one hundred and fifty restaurants. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that they must be doing something right…and that…of course…is the food…
The Handcrafted Meatballs, made with their own home-made sausage and beef, seasoned with garlic, oregano, parsley and Parmesan cheese were juicy and cooked to perfection. They came with spicy Napoletano and pesto rosse panna sauce.
The Arancini, which are risotto balls, filled with mozzarella cheese, breaded and deep fried to resemble small oranges (hence the name) were crisp with a light crunchy exterior. They were complemented with a spicy tomato sauce.
Mozzarella Carpaccio, consisted of imported Italian buffalo mozzarella sliced on top of crushed tomato with fresh anchovies, olive paste and fresh basil. Now for those of you who are staunch anti-anchovies militants, I would strongly advise to try this Carpaccio, the buffalo mozzarella’s soft, moist, somewhat granular, semi-elastic texture and its mild yet slightly sour taste combine to give the fresh anchovies a delicate, natural flavor which will take your eating experience into the fifth taste (beyond salty, sweet, sour and bitter), the one called “umami”. Try it, you won’t regret it.
Now, in a place called “the noodle” you know the pasta is going to be outstanding. The Pappardelle with Parmigiano and Truffle which are wide egg noodles, sautéed with truffle sauce, Parmesan cheese, topped with fried egg and black caviar did not dissapoint.
Branzino alla Mugnaia is Mediterranean sea bass, cooked with a lemon butter asparagus sauce. Served with roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus and arugula salad. This sea bass had a perfect flaky, buttery texture and a delicate well seasoned taste.
To finish an incredible meal, the Bocconcino, a fresh cheese cake with custard and the Tre Bombe al Cioccolato, a trio of chocolate and hazelnut semifreddo with chocolate sauce, were the perfect sonata.
La Tagliatella
301 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(786) 464-0516
Mr Q 305 on Facebook—Twitter—Instagram
Here are the images:

Fathers Day Brunch 6/15/14

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Fathers Day Brunch
Sunday, 06/15/2014 – 11:00 am – 03:00 pm
15th-and-Vine-215th and Vine Kitchen and Bar
485 Brickell Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33131
Webpage Link
Cost:

Treat dad to a gourmet brunch at 15th & Vine Kitchen and Bar featuring a vibrant culinary experience overlooking Biscayne Bay. The sleek new restaurant at Viceroy Miami invites dads to enjoy an a la carte menu of traditional breakfast favorites in addition to an array of chef specialties.

Highlights include blueberry lemon pancakes; spicy black beans ranchero; three flatbread options; as well as sandwiches, salads and healthy options. Also enjoy unlimited mimosas or Bloody Mary’s for $15.

Father’s Day “Man’s Man” Giveaway

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Father's Day Giveaway

Father’s Day is right around the corner and we want to celebrate the Man’s Man. So Chat Chow teamed up with Mandarine Napoléon for an Old Fashioned Gift Pack which includes a bottle of Mandarine Napoléon (750ml), a bottle of Wild Turkey Rye (750 ml), Stirrings Simple Syrup (12 oz), Angostura Bitters (4 oz), Cocktail Stirrer, Boston Shaker Set, Two Rocks Glasses and yes, even the citrus. And if that wasn’t enough, we are also throwing in a “Hot Shave Service” from our favorite barbershop, Junior & Hatter. All you have to do is follow/like us and our awesome buddies below and enter to win. Good Luck and cheers to fathers everywhere.

fathers-day-mans-man-giveaway-b

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Photographs of Celebrating Lee Brian Schrager’s Fried & True Cook Book at Broken Shaker on 5/30/14

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Celebrating Lee Brian Schrager’s Fried & True Cook Book at Broken Shaker on Friday, May 30, 2014. During this happy hour we enjoyed recipes from the Fried & True Cook Book which has more than 50 recipes for American’s best fried chicken and wonderful sides.  The recipes we got to enjoyed were: Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Fried Chicken & Watermelon Salad, Chef Dale Talde’s Kung Pao Chicken Wings, Biscuit Love Truck’s East Nasty Biscuit Sandwich, Loveless Cafe’s Hash Brown Casserole and Mary Mac’s Tea Room Tomato Pie.  All were so delicious and I can’t wait to try some of the recipes myself.

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Wynwood Kitchen & Bar Launches Summer Dining Series 6/4/14

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Wynwood Kitchen & Bar Launches Summer Dining Series
Wednesday, 06/04/2014 – 06/25/2014 11:30 am – 12:00 am
WYNWOOD-SQUAREWynwood Kitchen & Bar
2550 NW 2nd Ave,
Miami, Florida 33127
Webpage Link
Cost: Menu prices vary

Miami’s hotspot regarded for its cutting-edge art and inventive menu of Global-Latino small plates continues its celebration of cuisine from around the world with a tasting menu focused on European delights. In a three-month long series, Executive Chef Miguel Aguilar will showcase dishes from Spain in June, Germany in July and Portugal in August, while still incorporating the bold Latin flavors that WKB is known for.

The summer tasting menu will be available during lunch or dinner every Wednesday throughout June, beginning the first installment of the monthly series with a culinary tour through Spain. A la carte dishes to include:

Stuffed Piquillo Peppers ($10)
Crab meat, manchego cheese, aji amarillo
Meat and Cheese Plate ($16)
Duck prosciutto, San Simon and Tetilla cheeses
Chorizo Croquette ($9)
Potatoes, béchamel, chive crema
White Sangria ($11)
Seasonal fruit

The Spain summer tasting menu will be available for lunch and dinner every Wednesday throughout June (4th, 11th, 18th and 25th).

Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event 6/14/14

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Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event
Saturday, 06/14/2014 – 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
WD-World-Food-Cup-LOGO4Winn-Dixie Store #283
8855 Coral Way,
Miami, Florida 33165
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie is teaming up with KRAFT, Coca-Cola and Mondelez the Official Snacks of US Soccer to invite futbol fanatics for an afternoon of fun during Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ mini fan fests at participating Miami locations. Families are invited to enjoy soccer-inspired activities, including inflatable soccer goals, live entertainment, giveaways, product sampling and more.

From June 4-24, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a Home Viewing Party for the final match with top prizes including, big screen TVs, food and gift cards from Winn-Dixie, Coca-Cola and KRAFT at select Winn-Dixie locations. Customers will receive one (1) automatic entry with the purchase of any three (3) products from Coca-Cola, KRAFT, or Winn-Dixie Family Favorites with a minimum transaction of $35.00 using their Reward Card. For a full list of prizes and sweepstakes rules, please visit www.winndixie.com/futbolsweeps.

Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event 6/15/14

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Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event
Sunday, 06/15/2014 – 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
WD-World-Food-Cup-LOGO5Winn-Dixie Store #361
15050 S.W. 72nd St.,
Miami, Florida 33193
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie is teaming up with KRAFT, Coca-Cola and Mondelez the Official Snacks of US Soccer to invite futbol fanatics for an afternoon of fun during Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ mini fan fests at participating Miami locations. Families are invited to enjoy soccer-inspired activities, including inflatable soccer goals, live entertainment, giveaways, product sampling and more.

From June 4-24, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a Home Viewing Party for the final match with top prizes including, big screen TVs, food and gift cards from Winn-Dixie, Coca-Cola and KRAFT at select Winn-Dixie locations. Customers will receive one (1) automatic entry with the purchase of any three (3) products from Coca-Cola, KRAFT, or Winn-Dixie Family Favorites with a minimum transaction of $35.00 using their Reward Card. For a full list of prizes and sweepstakes rules, please visit www.winndixie.com/futbolsweeps.

Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event 6/21/14

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Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event
Sunday, 06/21/2014 – 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
WD-World-Food-Cup-LOGO6Winn-Dixie Store #254
11241 SW 40th St.,
Miami, Florida 33165
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie is teaming up with KRAFT, Coca-Cola and Mondelez the Official Snacks of US Soccer to invite futbol fanatics for an afternoon of fun during Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ mini fan fests at participating Miami locations. Families are invited to enjoy soccer-inspired activities, including inflatable soccer goals, live entertainment, giveaways, product sampling and more.

From June 4-24, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a Home Viewing Party for the final match with top prizes including, big screen TVs, food and gift cards from Winn-Dixie, Coca-Cola and KRAFT at select Winn-Dixie locations. Customers will receive one (1) automatic entry with the purchase of any three (3) products from Coca-Cola, KRAFT, or Winn-Dixie Family Favorites with a minimum transaction of $35.00 using their Reward Card. For a full list of prizes and sweepstakes rules, please visit www.winndixie.com/futbolsweeps.

Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event 6/28/14

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Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ Event
Saturday, 06/28/2014 – 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
WD-World-Food-Cup-LOGO7Winn-Dixie Store #249
6770 Bird Rd.,
Miami, Florida 33155
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie is teaming up with KRAFT, Coca-Cola and Mondelez the Official Snacks of US Soccer to invite futbol fanatics for an afternoon of fun during Winn-Dixie’s ‘World Food Cup’ mini fan fests at participating Miami locations. Families are invited to enjoy soccer-inspired activities, including inflatable soccer goals, live entertainment, giveaways, product sampling and more.

From June 4-24, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a Home Viewing Party for the final match with top prizes including, big screen TVs, food and gift cards from Winn-Dixie, Coca-Cola and KRAFT at select Winn-Dixie locations. Customers will receive one (1) automatic entry with the purchase of any three (3) products from Coca-Cola, KRAFT, or Winn-Dixie Family Favorites with a minimum transaction of $35.00 using their Reward Card. For a full list of prizes and sweepstakes rules, please visit www.winndixie.com/futbolsweeps.

I Am Miami In Action by Activating Public Spaces 5/30/14

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I Am Miami In Action by Activating Public Spaces
Friday, 05/30/2014 – 11:00 am – 07:00 pm
Miami-In-Action-Email-flyer-copyStephen P Clark Government Center Park
150 NW 1st Street,
Miami, Florida 33130
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Join us for an activity packed day where you can connect with others, learn about ways to improve Miami, and enjoy a splendid downtown park.

Installations will include a graffiti wall, a living wall, games, an athletic field, dance, story time, food trucks and a green screen of the Everglades.

Be inspired ~ Create connections ~ Take action

The event will take place in the park just west of Government Center along NW 2nd Avenue between NW 1st & 3rd Streets.

Admission is free!

Coconut Grove Culinary Crawl 6/18/14

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Coconut Grove Culinary Crawl
Wednesday, 06/18/2014 – 06:30 pm –
Coconut Grove
TBA,
Miami, Florida 33133
Webpage Link
Cost: $45

Go beyond the gleaming green surroundings while you take your taste-buds on a tour with community companions and mingle with fellow gourmet gurus. Please your palate as you try new dishes and familiar favorites in the area all while making new friends

Curb your culinary cravings at one of Miami’s oldest and most treasured areas and Dishcrawl through Coconut Grove on Wednesday, June 18th!

It’s a guessing game! We’re keeping the names of the restaurants we will be visiting a secret for now, but here and there we’ll give you some hints. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and be the first to know!

Where to Meet Us: All ticket holders will be notified of meeting location via email, 48 hours prior to the event.

I’m a Vegetarian: Vegetarian options are available, however we may not be able to accommodate other dietary restrictions. If you have any particular requests or have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Beverage Policy: Drinks not inclusive of the ticket price. Drink specials and pairings may be available at discretion of the participating restaurant.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are taken only if given 48 hours advance notice. All Dishcrawl events are held rain or shine.

Questions?: Contact me! I’m Alexandria, your Dishcrawl Ambassador. Email me at AlexandriaG@Dishcrawl.com

About Dishcrawl: Dishcrawl is dedicated to re-imagining the way people think about food, drink, and their community. You can find local progressive dinners, exclusive chef encounters, and other fun food events in every city! From culinary experiences in real life to great stories about local culture online, Dishcrawl spans 250 cities across the US, Canada, and soon the UK.

Make life more delicious and visit Dishcrawl.com.

#NegroniWeek 2014

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Negroni WeekAt Chat Chow TV, we are big fans of the Negroni. We are even bigger fans of giving back to the community while drinking a Negroni — and during Negroni Week (June 2 – 8, 2014) everyone will have the opportunity to do both.

For Negroni Week, more than ten different restaurants and bars around Miami, and hundreds more around the country, will feature a Negroni Week special. A portion of the proceeds from each sale of the Negroni during that week will go to the charity of the venue’s choosing.

But the it doesn’t stop there. If you check in via social media using the hashtag #NegroniWeek, Campari will donate an additional $1 per mention, up to $10,000, to charity. Plus the bar or restaurant that has the most #NegroniWeek mentions at the end of the promotion will get another $10,000 donated to their designated charity.

We’ve highlighted some of the Negronis we are most looking forward to below, but if you want a cheat sheet of where to find special Negroni Week drinks around town make sure to print out the Negroni Passport and get it stamped knowing you’re drinking a delicious drink and giving back to a good cause!

Blackbird Ordinary
Negroni Variation (Campari, Plymouth Gin, Byrrh, Cranberry Bitters)
Charity: Lymphoma Society

Bocce Bar
Negroni Sbagliato (Prosecco, Campari, Sweet Vermouth)
Charity: Wade’s World

Broken Shaker
Garden Negroni (the classic with fresh herbs)
Charity: Humane Society of Miami

Lure Fishbar
White Negroni (London Dry Gin, Lillet Blanc, Suze)
Charity: American Diabetes Association

Macchialina
Classic (London Dry Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth)
Charity: ASPCA

Michaels Genuine Food & Drink
Berlioni (Cynar, Campano, Gin)
Charity: Alex’s Lemonade Stand

Radio Bar
The Smokey Silk (Campari, Cynar, Vida Mezcal, Lustau Sherry)
Charity – Jewish Federation

Peru Gourmet 2014 at Rusty Pelican Key Biscayne 6/3/14

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Peru Gourmet 2014 @ Rusty Pelican Key Biscayne
perugourmetTuesday, June 3rd 2014, 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Rusty Pelican
3201 Rickenbacker Causeway
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
$60 per Person, Includes All drinks & Food Tasting
To buy tickets click here
Valet Parking: $6.00
Dress Code: Casual

The Peruvian American Chamber of Commerce is proud to invite everyone to the 2014 Peru Gourmet. It will held Tuesday, June 3rd, 2014

Taste of the Nation South Florida 6/17/14

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Taste of the Nation South Florida
Tuesday, 06/17/2014 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
no-kidLoews Miami Beach Hotel
1601 Collins Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: $125-250

Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation® is the nation’s premier culinary benefit, featuring South Florida’s top restaurants and culinary talents – all of whom are coming together to donate their time, talent and passion to end childhood hunger in America.

This year, the region’s most anticipated gastronomic event will showcase more than 50 of the hottest restaurants from both Dade and Broward counties, chefs, sommeliers and mixologists and an impressive array of auction items. Those who want to continue the revelry will love the exclusive new Black and Blanco After Party, sponsored by Tequila Casa Dragones Blanco and featuring hors d’oeuvres by Lure, as well as chocolate temptations by some of Miami’s most talented pâtissiers.

Taste of the Nation South Florida will take place on Tuesday, June 17, 2014 from 7 to 10 p.m., in the main ballroom of the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, with the after party continuing until midnight. 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.

Sushi and Sake 101 at SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables 5/27/14

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Sushi and Sake 101 at SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables
Tuesday, 05/27/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Omakase-44lowresSushisamba
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85

The class consists of a two-part educational experience. The sake portion is led by SUSHISAMBA’s sake sommelier and includes five flights with an introduction to the history of sake, its common myths, pairing tips and more. From aromatic to aged to sparkling, guests will be exposed to a diverse range of sake from new prefectures every month – be it “sweet and spicy” or “rich and round with a sweet caramel finish.” Participants will not leave hungry and should bring their appetites! Throughout the class, they will enjoy a selection of SUSHISAMBA’s signature dishes, a variety of sushi rolls, edamame, tempura and sashimi.

In the second part of the class, participants will gain insider sushi-making tips from SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables’ executive sushi chef, including an introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selection and preparation of raw fish. But that’s not all – the class will conclude with all participants creating, and enjoying, sushi rolls of their choice! The students will leave the class with an informative take-away booklet designed to help apply their knowledge at home.

Price: $85

180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, F: 33134

Celebration Tea at Fairchild 6/8/14

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Celebration Tea at Fairchild
Sunday, 06/08/2014 – 03:00 pm –
Afternoon-Tea-GuestFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $27 for members, $37 for non-members and $17 for children 12 and under

Commemorate a birthday, graduation, engagement, wedding, or anything special at the Celebration Tea at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. This lovely afternoon tea is held on the veranda and in the ballroom upstairs in the Visitor Center, offering sweeping views of the garden and lakes.

Sample all four choices of specially blended tea and add some of our Fairchild Farm honey to sweeten the taste. Sweet and savory treats include freshly baked scones with mango marmalade, egg salad with watercress, and curried chicken salad tea sandwiches.

Tea service begins at 3:00 p.m. Cost per person is $27 for members, $37 for non-members and $17 for children 12 and under. For reservations, please call Marnie Valent at 305-663-8059.

Heath Porter / Uvaggio

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Tucked away on Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile is the new wine bar and restaurant Uvaggio. The cozy spot has garnered a lot of buzz because of its unique approach to wine and dining. Chat Chow TV sat down with Uvaggio’s Head Wine-O Heath Porter to learn more about the restaurant and its interesting take on the wine scene.

Uvaggio is part dining experience and part wine bar, carrying around 700 different bottles of wine, by 120 different labels, and prides itself on carrying uncommon wine varieties.

“Seems like everybody else wants to carry a lot of the same things, and that’s awesome if people want to go there and drink that,” Porter notes. “But I’d rather come here and try something I don’t drink sitting on my couch every night.”

The extensive wine program also features high-end bottles poured by the glass using a Coravin, a members only wine club, and wine tastings for people of all different levels.

As for the cuisine, Executive Chef and Top Chef alum, Bret Pelaggi, goes the untraditional approach and pairs the food with the wine — not the other way around. Creating interesting dishes like Braised Beef Short Rib with black licorice tea consommé and Octopus “Naranja Agria” that pair perfectly with wines on the menu.

Unlike many other wine-centric restaurants, Uvaggio doesn’t take itself too seriously. Uvaggio’s fun irreverence can be found throughout the restaurant, like its wine list separated by witty titles such as “Full Bodied, Plus Sized Wines” and “Juice Only I Would Drink” and Metallica soundtrack often heard playing in the background.

“Let’s just have fun. At the end of the day there is no ambulance coming if we screw up whatever we’re doing.” Porter adds. “It’s food, it’s booze, it’s wine, isn’t that we like?”

Lamb Down Under Culinary Event 5/31/14

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“Lamb Down Under” Culinary Event
Saturday, 05/31/2014 – 05/31/2014 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
edgeEDGE Steak & Bar
1435 Brickell Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33131
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $55

Join Miami’s “Lambassador” Chef Aaron Brooks and an All-Star Line-Up of Miami’s Top Chefs for Lamb Down Under Culinary Event.

Eat like an Aussie at this interactive, reception-style culinary event featuring Australian Lamb. Savor an unlimited amount of lamb bites, prepared by five local chefs, Bradley Kilgore of J&G Grill, Danny Grant of the recently opened 1826 Restaurant & Lounge, Jacob Anaya of OTC and Michael Reidt of the yet to open Pilgrim. Enjoy wines from the Australian wineries of Yalumba and Jansz Tasmania, and craft beer by BREW FIU, blended locally by Florida International University students within the on-campus brew lab. The evening concludes with sweet treats from Keith Wallace, the debuting pastry chef at EDGE Steak & Bar.

The gastronomic celebration takes places in a casual rooftop setting on the EDGE Steak & Bar terrace, overlooking Miami’s city skyline. Quality food prepared by some of Miami’s finest chefs, amazing wines & brew and a live DJ, make it an evening not to miss. For more information contact EDGE at (305) 381-3190 or visit www.edgerestaurantmiami.com.

Reservations are required, and tickets must be presented at the door.

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

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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

American Social Hosts Mother’s Day All-You-Can-Eat Brunch 5/11/14

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American Social Hosts Mother’s Day  All-You-Can-Eat Brunch

Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 11:00 am – 02:30 pm
551311_444803722268829_219884830_nAmerican Social
721 E. Las Olas Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Webpage Link
Cost: $22.95 per person

Guests are invited to enjoy the restaurant’s endless chilled snow crabs, Belgian waffles, made-to-order omelets, ol’ fashioned chicken ‘n waffles, biscuits and gravy, hickory smoked bacon, apple wood sausage, slow roasted, salt and pepper prime rib, breakfast potatoes, house smoked Atlantic salmon, seasonal fruit, fresh baked pastries, artisanal breads and homemade dessert for $22.95. For $10 extra, patrons can indulge in unlimited mimosas and a full Bloody Mary bar.

In addition to raising a bottomless glass to all of the moms, AmSo will gift them with a single, long-stemmed red rose and a hand-dipped, chocolate covered strawberry.

For reservations, please call 954-764-7005.

Kitchen 305 Celebrates Mother’s Day With All-You-Can-Eat Brunch 5/11/14

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Kitchen 305 Celebrates Mother’s Day With All-You-Can-Eat Brunch
Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 11:00 am – 03:00 pm
Kitchen 305 at the Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort
16701 Collins Ave.,
Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160
Webpage Link
Cost: $35 per person

Enjoy a long meal with loved ones that starts with breakfast favorites including freshly baked breads, a pastry station, seasonal fruits and made-to-order omelets.

A seafood display will feature hand-rolled sushi, jumbo shrimp, Bluepoint oysters on the half shell, grilled Icelandic gravlax, snow crab claws and an assortment of smoked fish.

An antipasti and salad bar includes domestic and imported cheese, bruschetta station and a selection of cured meats and sausages.

Entrée options are comprised of Texas smoked prime rib smeared with chimichurri, horseradish mousseline and spicy mustard; stuffed leg of lamb with rock shrimp and chorizo and citrus marinated Atlantic salmon grilled with shiitake mushrooms and cippolini onions.

For those who savor sweets, a Viennese dessert bar will showcase assorted cakes, cookies, brownies, mini tarts and berries.

American Craft Beer Week 5/12/14

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American Craft Beer Week
Monday, 05/12/2014 – 05/18/2014 12:00 pm – 12:00 pm
American-Craft-Beer-WeekBatch Gastropub
30 SW 12 ST,
Miami, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: $45

Batch Gastropub in Miami will join in on the nationwide celebration with a week full of events for American Craft Beer week Monday, May 12 through Sunday, May 18. American Craft Beer Week is the national celebration of the craft beer revolution. By celebrating with Batch you are promoting flavorful and interesting world-class craft beers produced by local small and independent brewers. Gather up your beer enthusiast friends at Batch to honor the craft beer community.

Batch Gastropub sets out to create a unique dining and drinking experience. Toast to a hard day’s work with a three course meal & different craft beers in honor of the Craft Beer week. Guests will be welcomed with a specialty beer cocktail such as, The Ginger Shandy, a fusion of Funky Buddha Floridian with lime, simple syrup and ginger beer poured over ice, following its daily three course meal that includes an appetizer, entrée and dessert with a beer in between for $45. Featured beers include Samuel Adams, Funky Buddha, Gravity Brewlab, Wynwood Brewery and Cigar City.

Taste of The Gables 2014 6/5/14

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Taste of The Gables 2014
Thursday, 06/05/2014 – 06/06/2014 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
CGRWWestin Colonnade Hotel
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Buy Tickets Link
Cost:

The 7th annual Taste of the Gables is back to kick off Coral Gables Restaurant Week! Taste samples from 20 of your favorite Coral Gables Restaurant Week participants, vote for your “Best Taste of the Gables,” and try a cocktail or two! Presented by Barcardi USA Inc , there will be plenty of food and activities, so come with an empty stomach! Tickets are on sale now, so get yours before they sell out.
General Admission: $30 in advance / $40 the day of the event
VIP Admission: $55 in advance / $65 the day of the event.
Visit http://coralgablesrestaurantweek.com/taste/ for more info & to purchase tickets.

50 Eggs Guest Chef Series at Yardbird with Chef Michael Laukert 5/16/14

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50 Eggs Guest Chef Series at Yardbird with Chef Michael Laukert
Friday, 05/16/2014 – 12:00 am –
Guest-Chef-Dinner_Michael-Laukert-05-16-14Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
1600 Lenox Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost: $75

50 Eggs continues the guest chef series on Friday, May 16 when Yardbird – Southern Table & Bar hosts guest Chef Michael Laukert of Hundred Acre Wine Group, for a one-night-only, midnight dinner collaboration. Laukert, bringing over 25 years of experience, is a chef and specialty food consultant, as well as editor and author of One True Vine: A Journal of Food, Wine, Life.

Chef Laukert and 50 Eggs Culinary Director Clayton Miller will serve a fabulous four-course dinner paired with three of Hundred Acre’s award-winning wines: Layer Cake Chardonnay; Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon and Cherry Tart Pinot Noir. The meal will also feature an exclusive preview of The Duke – a bourbon based on John Wayne’s 40 year-old recipe.

Tickets – priced at $75 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) – are limited and available for purchase online at www.50eggsinc.com/chefs.

Yardbird is located 1600 Lenox Avenue on Miami Beach. Telephone: (305) 538-5220; www.runchickenrun.com.

Author Michael Pollan to Present Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation 5/15/14

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Author Michael Pollan to Present Cooked: A Natural History of Transformation
Thursday, 05/15/2014 – 07:30 pm – 09:30 pm
Cooked-CoverMiami Dade College Wolfson Campus Auditorium
300 ne 2 avenue,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

The Center for Literature and Theatre at Miami Dade College (MDC), in collaboration with Books & Books, will host New York Times bestselling author Michael Pollan.

For the past 25 years, Pollan has been writing about the places where nature and culture intersect. In Cooked, Pollan explores the previously uncharted territory of his own kitchen. He discovers the enduring power of the four classical elements – fire, water, air, and earth – to transform the stuff of nature into delicious things to eat and drink. Apprenticing himself to a succession of culinary masters, Pollan learns how to grill with fire, cook with liquid, bake bread, and ferment everything from cheese to beer. In the course of his journey, he discovers that the cook occupies a special place in the world, standing squarely between nature and culture. Both realms are transformed by cooking, and so, in the process, is the cook.

To receive a voucher (admission for one) to attend the event, purchase a copy of Cooked ($17 + tax) at Books & Books in Coral Gables, Miami Beach or Bal Harbour Shops. Attendees must show voucher and receipt to enter the event. For more information, contact Books & Books Coral Gables at 305-442-4408, or visit www.booksandbooks.com.

Coral Gables Restaurant Week 6/9/14-6/29/14

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Coral Gables Restaurant Week
Sunday, 06/09/2014 – 06/29/2014 12:00 pm –
CGRW1Miracle Mile & Downtown Coral Gables
220 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Downtown Coral Gables is celebrating our 7th Annual Coral Gables Restaurant Week presented by Bacardi USA from June 9th-29th with exciting new restaurants and new unique events. This year, you have three whole weeks to taste your way through Coral Gables, giving you plenty of time to try new eateries and return to old favorites, all offering amazing prix-fixe menus at a discounted price.

For three weeks, restaurants will offer special three-course lunch and dinner menus. Guests (21 years of age and older) can pair those meals with the classic BACARDÍ® Cuba Libre, the official cocktail of Coral Gables Restaurant Week, and MARTINI® Prosecco as the featured wine.

Brother Jimmy’s Mother’s Day Brunch 5/11/14

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Brother Jimmy’s Mother’s Day Brunch
Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 11:00 am – 04:00 pm
Bjs-Brunch-Shrimp-Gritz_edited-1Brother Jimmy’s BBQ
5701 Sunset Drive,
Miami, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

Treat Mom this Mother’s day to some Brother Jimmy’s Southern Comfort. Made-for-Mom deals include Jimmy’s Famous Monkey Bread, Berk’s Blues Pancakes, Skillet Brisket and eggs, Banana Jameson- infused French Toast, Shrimp N’ Gritz, and a Southern classic- Fried Chicken N’ Waffles. If that’s not enough, start your day off right with free Mother’s day Mimosas.

Unlimited mimosas/Miller Lite + 1 entree : $29.95

Now Serving in Two Locations:
Brother Jimmy’s BBQ: 900 S Miami Ave, Miami; 786-360-3650 | Brother Jimmy’s BBQ: 5701 Sunset Drive, Miami;

Grand Opening of Salvation Tattoo Lounge’s New Location 5/10/14

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Grand Opening of Salvation Tattoo Lounge’s New Location
Saturday, 05/10/2014 – 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
6e72d678d2f411e38fdb0002c99b3e94_6Salvation Tattoo Lounge
1132 Normandy Drive,
Normandy, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Check out Salvation Tattoo Lounge’s new location in Normandy! Come say hello to our talented team, enjoy a live DJ, BBQ, free small tattoos, and enter our raffle for a chance to win a $1,000 tattoo! You don’t want to miss this!

Mother’s Day Celebration 5/11/14

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Mother’s Day Celebration
Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 01:00 pm – 05:00 pm
Screen-shot-2014-05-04-at-8.20.19-PMAmerican Czech-Slovak Cultural Club
13325 Arch Creek Road,
North Miami, Florida 33181
Webpage Link
Cost: $16; $15 for club members

The American Czech-Slovak Cultural Club invites everyone to celebrate mothers, grandmothers and mothers-to-be with a special lunch and live music. The lunch includes salad, entree, dessert and coffee/tea. In addition, all mothers will receive a complimentary glass of wine or a soft drink of their choice. Children under 8 years old eat free.

Mama Knows Best At Café Prima Pasta 5/11/14

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Mama Knows Best At Café Prima Pasta
Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 04:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Café Prima Pasta
414 71st Street,
Miami Beach, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost:

We all know Italian mothers have a special way around the kitchen, and Mama Cea of Café Prima Pasta is no exception with her traditional, award-winning cuisine, which for the past 20 years has made celebrities such as Matt Damon, Lenny Kravitz and Dwyane Wade regulars of the family owned and operated restaurant.

Prima will celebrate Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 11th) with complimentary “mom-mosas” and new dinner specials added to its al la carte menu including Eggplant Rollatini ($14), sliced eggplant wrapped with ricotta and artisanal cheeses topped with pomodoro sauce; Short Rib Risotto ($14 or $28), braised short ribs over a bed of saffron risotto available as an appetizer or entrée; Lobster, Crab & Shrimp Ceviche ($18), fresh seafood medley marinated in lemon juice; Ravioli Porcini ($21), perfectly puffed pasta pockets stuffed with delicate porcini mushrooms in a creamy truffle sauce; Lobster Fra Diavolo ($38), whole lobster in a spicy marinara sauce served with homemade linguini or the Fish of the Day ($28), fresh catch straight from sea served with fire-grilled vegetables.

Downtown FULL MOON party MoonDance at TSL Lounge 5/16/14

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Downtown FULL MOON party – MOONDANCE at TSL Lounge
Friday, 05/16/2014 – 09:00 pm – 03:00 am
dfmp-may-flyer-front-final-600pxTSL Lounge
167 NW 23rd Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link
Cost: $5 before 10p; $10 before midnight; $15 after

(“Dance like you are adding extra years to your lifetime”)

The “downtown FULL MOON party” presents yet another chapter in its fun-filled, entertaining, and interactive Full Moon Celebration… We embrace the tremendous power of the energetic full moon and dance to its phenomenal monthly occurrences… It hasn’t let us down and we’ll return its loyalty in fold as we gather to dance and express our gratitude in the true spirit of oneness!!!

Please check updates on both our main website: www.dfullmoonparty.com, as well as our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/downtownfullmoonparty for continuous updates to our entertainment line-up… Since you know that we guarantee an “entertaining” evening, you can rest assured that we will not dissapoint!!! Since you know that we guarantee an “entertaining” evening, you can rest assured that we will not dissapoint!!!

Also, celebrating the birthday of Tracie Samara…
So, mark your calendar to make sure that you don’t miss the upcoming downtown FULL MOON party’s MOONDANCE event!
“A 1980’s Breakdance Themed Event”

BREAKDANCE WORKSHOP (Before event hours 7 – 9pm)
Come to learn a few basic moves from some of South Florida’s Top Breakdancers. You don’t need to have any special dance skillz to enjoy this fun, no-judgement and low stress dance workout… Plus, the workshop itself is free with a $5 admission to the event!

FREE admission before 11p for all drummers, musicians, and performers with proper instruments and spinning props/gears***

Door Admission: $5 before 10p; $10 before midnight; $15 after
NOTE: Pre-sold Tickets are available at: www.dfullmoonparty.com at discounted prices and also a free drink with each purchased ticket…
21+ Only Event

Featuring:
Live Music Performance: Mixed Culture
Guest Performer: TBD
Deejay / Music Producer: DJ Stingray
Guest Deejay: Alan Epstein
Art Exhibition: Charles Edward Soto
Hosted by: Tracie Samara, Sophie Moon, L’aine D’traveler, Naomi Ferrara, Anthony Bacchus, Sol Amor, Olivia Delaney
Lead Drummer: Bli Bi Eric Gore and Anthony Bacchus

Live Interactive Art
Come and paint art background of famous 1980’s Music Icons… Don’t know what we mean? Well, you’ll find out, but only if you are there!

Suggested Dresscode: (Very Important!) Creative Attire 1980’s style… It’s a BreakDancing Theme!

Mother’s Day Brunch at The News Lounge Cafe 5/11/14

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Mother’s Day Brunch at The News Lounge Cafe
Sunday, 05/11/2014 – 11:00 am – 05:00 pm
Mothers-Day-BrunchThe News Lounge
5580 NE 4th Court,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link
Cost:

The News Lounge would like to invite you to a Special Mother’s Day Brunch… Treat your mom to Miami’s Best Organic Brunch and enjoy a great afternoon with DJ Chilly spinning Motown, Funk, Chilled and Soulful House Music…

RSVP required… You can reserve either online: www.thenewslounge.com or call: 305-758-9932

Grand Opening: Taste of the Terrace at Dadeland 5/17/14

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Grand Opening: Taste of the Terrace at Dadeland
Saturday, 05/17/2014 – 05/17/2014 01:00 pm – 05:00 pm
860420_767945599883988_6270688956314241342_oDadeland Mall
7535 North Kendall Drive,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Calling all Dadeland Fashionistas and Foodies!

Share your style, please your palate and support local charities at the Dadeland Mall Grand Opening Celebration of the new Terrace Dining at Dadeland.
Join us on Saturday, May 17th, from 1 – 5 pm, for tastings and chef demonstration from our newest restaurants, a festive champagne toast, runway show featuring Dadeland spring fashion collections, live music, dance performances, a chance to win a complete makeover, prizes every hour, and many more surprises!

Dadeland mall is located at 7535 N Kendall Dr, Miami, Fl 33156.
Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/295948957230088/ to learn more.

Ikura Sushi Lounge Grand Opening 4/30/14

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Ikura Sushi Lounge Grand Opening
Wednesday, 04/30/2014 – 06:30 pm – 10:00 pm
photoIkura Sushi Lounge
143 Giralda Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
RSVP Link
Cost: Free

Celebrate The Grand Opening of Ikura Sushi Lounge, April 30, 2014, Enjoy Sushi with a Peruvian & Caribbean Flair in The Heart of Coral Gables!

Join us and celebrate while indulging your taste buds in delectable new sushi with complimentary drinks and lite bites.

Grand Opening Of Brother Jimmy’s Bbq Restaurant In South Miami At Sunset Place 4/25/14-4/26/15

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Grand Opening Of Brother Jimmy’s Bbq Restaurant In South Miami At Sunset Place This Weekend
Friday, 04/25/2014 – 04/26/2014 05:00 pm – 10:00 pm
BrotherJimmysBBQBrother Jimmy’s BBQ
5701 Sunset Drive,
Miami, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

Serving authentic North Carolina slow smoked barbeque, the restaurant that made a name for itself in Mary Brickell Village, and has been delighting New Yorkers for over two decades, is now bringing its acclaimed BBQ cuisine to South Miami at Sunset Place.

Grand Opening festivities for the public begin on Friday night with fashion shows, a mechanical riding bull, line dancing performers and kid’s line dancing lessons.

Just as it did in the Northeast and in Miami’s Mary Brickell Village, the casual, energetic restaurant with acclaimed BBQ cuisine, Brother Jimmy’s BBQ is now serving up their serious barbeque Southern style fare in South Miami with the opening of its newest location at Sunset Place.

Friday
5pm – 7pm Happy Hour Kick Off
6:30pm Line Dance Show
7:30pm Line Dance Show
9pm Fashion Show
5pm – 10pm Mechanical Riding Bull

Saturday
1pm – 6pm Family Fun
1pm Bull Riding Lessons for Kids & Adults
1pm – 4pm Face Painting
2pm Line Dance Show
2:30pm Line Dancing Lessons for Kids
4pm Line Dance Show
5pm Line Dance Show
10pm “The Rejects” perform
1pm – 6pm Mechanical Riding Bull

About Brother Jimmy’s BBQ Miami Restaurants:
The local trio behind the Brother Jimmy’s Miami locations are University of Miami Hurricanes alumni and former teammates turned NFL superstars. Jon Vilma, Jon Beason & D.J. Williams launched the first location in Mary Brickell Village 2 years ago. In this short time, they not only established proven success, but they have also expanded the business with a full catering menu, a new back-door takeout window and “Sweet Sui,” a food truck that can be seen at weekly events across South Florida and competing at BBQ cook-offs throughout the region.

Brother Jimmy’s has celebrated over 20 years of legendary North Carolina, slow-smokin’ barbeque. Their mission was, and still is, to bring to quality “down-home” cooking, hospitality and authentic cuisine to Miami. Brother Jimmy’s energetic environment stays true to the original New York locations providing the perfect atmosphere for serious dining, food & drinks after-work, lunch, brunch or dinner with friends and family.

Burger & Beer Joint’s Karaoke Night 4/9/14

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Burger & Beer Joint’s Karaoke Night
Wednesday, 04/09/2014 – 09:00 pm – 12:00 am
FINALBurger and Beer Joint
1766 Bay Rd.,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

The Burger and Beer Joint’s Karaoke + Comedy Spectacular!

Starting April 9th and continuing every Wednesday…

Hosted by Shelley Novak, comedian Chewie Cardozo & celebrity karaoke Dj Miik Martorell
Wild Guest Stars every week!

Every Wednesday from 9 pm to 12 am enjoy:
$3 draft beers
$3 house wines
$4.50 house cocktails

Slow Food Miami Snail of Approval Tasting Party 4/25/14

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Slow Food Miami – ‘Snail of Approval’ Tasting Party
Friday, 04/25/2014 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Raleigh Hotel
1775 Collins Avenue,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: Main event $85; VIP $165

Slow Food Miami, the local 100% volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to “planting a fresher future for our children,” will hold its 3rd Annual “Snail of Approval” Tasting Party on Friday, April 25th from 7 to 10 p.m., at The Raleigh Hotel. Join Ambassador for the Evening, James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Schwartz for what has become Miami’s “Freshest Night Out.” Guests will savor exclusive bites from Miami’s farm-to-table best, hand-crafted cocktails courtesy of 2012 Snail of Approval Award Winner GREY GOOSE Vodka, specialty wines provided by Stellar Wines, Michael’s Genuine Home Brew courtesy of Royal Caribbean International and its new Michael’s Genuine Pub, non-alcoholic refreshments from Whole Foods Market – South Beach, and the iconic Miami Beach setting of The Raleigh Hotel’s fabulous poolside venue. Main event tickets ($85) and limited VIP tickets ($165) can be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com. Event proceeds will benefit Slow Food Miami’s Edible Garden Program.

The main event Tasting Party will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. poolside at The Raleigh. The VIP After-Party featuring 2014-15 nominees The Bazaar by José Andrés & Katsuya along with live entertainment from a Grammy-winning pianist, will take place from 9:30 p.m. to midnight.

Join Savor Tonight at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar 4/22/14

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Join Savor Tonight at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar
Tuesday, 04/22/2014 – 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
EARLSEarls Kitchen + Bar
2510 – 7535 N Kendall Drive at Dadeland Mall,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door

Join Savor Tonight at the newly opened Earls Kitchen + Bar on Tues., April 22nd for an evening of global gourmet bites, fine wine, creative cocktails and new connections. Since their opening in mid-March, Earls has already become a hot spot in the area, attracting those seeking farm fresh cuisine and creative cocktails in a lively environment. (Zagat just named their Chicken, Brie & Fig Sandwich one of Miami’s 8 Best Sandwiches that you must try now).

Cost for the event is $10 in advance or $15 at the door. This includes 1 drink (either a Bee’s Knees made with Aviation gin, Cointreau, honey, fresh lemon + angostura bitters or a glass of house red or white wine.) and a selection of complimentary hors d’oeuvres like Crispy Thai Shrimp, Sticky BBQ Pork Buns, Cobia Ceviche and Chicken Tacos.

Where to Brunch this Easter Sunday: Serendipity 3 Specials 4/20/14

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Where to Brunch this Easter Sunday: Serendipity 3 Specials
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 07:00 am – 09:00 pm
serendipity-EasterSerendipity 3 Miami
1102 Lincoln Rd,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

Sip on Serendipity 3’s Bunny Cottontail this Easter Sunday, which includes Whipped vodka, Godiva white chocolate liqeur, creme de cocoa, grendandine and garnished with jelly beens and an Easter Peep classic. For the family to share, dive into this limited time Egg Hunt Sundae which is created with Pistaschio strawberry and vanilla ice cream combined with Marshmellow sauce covered in jordan almonds, and robin eggs.

Easter Brunch at Verde 4/20/14

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Easter Brunch at Verde
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 11:00 am – 04:45 pm
verde-brunchPérez Art Museum Miami
1103 Biscayne Blvd,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link
Cost: Vary

Verde, the waterfront restaurant in Pérez Art Museum Miami, will offer Easter Sunday brunch with a special menu and live entertainment by The Emmet Cohen Jazz Trio featuring YoungArts alumni Emmet Cohen (piano), Russell Hall (bass) and Evan Sherman (percussion).

Guests may choose from the regular menu, or a prix fixe menu created in the spirit of the museum’s new exhibition, “Caribbean: Crossroads of World.” The prix fixe menu is $50 and bottomless mimosas are available for an additional $20 (details at pamm.org/dining). Child-friendly options are available by request. The new Pérez Art Museum Miami is located in downtown Miami between the Arsht Center and the AmericanAirlines Arena, and features sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and spacious galleries. Brunch reservations (parties up to 12) are required, and space is limited.

Brunch reservations start at 11am
For reservations, contact Rory Gurland at 786-345-5697
Self-parking on-site as available ($2/hour) / Metromover: Museum Park station / pamm.org/parking

Photo by Cendino Teme

A Stinking Rose Celebration for $4.19: Cafe Prima Pasta Celebrates National Garlic Day 4/19/14

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A Stinking Rose Celebration for $4.19: Cafe Prima Pasta Celebrates National Garlic Day
Saturday, 04/19/2014 – 05:00 pm – 12:00 am
cafe-prima-pastaCafe Prima Pasta
414 71st Street,
Miami Beach, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost:

Café Prima Pasta is celebrating their love for garlic with $4.19 specials on Saturday, April 19th in conjunction with National Garlic Day. The three “breath-taking,” garlic-infused appetizers including the Bruschetta, flaky Italian bread topped with chopped vine ripened tomatoes, sweet basil and garlic (org. $9.95); Calamaretti Fritti, fresh calamari fried in a mixture of authentic Italian bread crumbs and robust roasted garlic (orig. $12.95) and Spinach Sautee, tender baby spinach sautéed in zesty garlic served over hearty cannellini beans (orig. $9.95). 
 
If the permeating smell of the restaurant isn’t enough to keep patrons safe, repellent vampire cocktails are available, which include the Baby Prima Martini, Dracula Red Bloody Mary, Vampire Vodka Surprise, and Chef Arturo’s favorite Pinot Noir all priced at $4.19 a glass.
 
Whether people love it or hate it, the health benefits of eating garlic are now universally hailed. A member of the onion family, garlic has been used throughout recorded history for both culinary and medicinal purposes such as lowering blood cholesterol levels and reducing the buildup of plaque in arteries. It has a characteristic pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking.

Easter Brunch Buffet 4/20/14

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Easter Brunch Buffet
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 11:00 am – 04:00 pm
Screen-Shot-2014-04-08-at-5.50.20-PMMoonchine Asian Bistro Lounge
7100 Biscayne Blvd,
Miami, Florida 33138
RSVP Link
Cost: $19.50 Online – $25 at the Door

This is an online exclusive for our Easter Brunch Buffet. RSVP online $19.50; $25 at the door.

Come by and spend lovely Miami weather at our patio garden! DJs will be spinning in a classic open format to add to your exclusive dining experience!
Including:

Thai – Vietnamese BBQ

Eggs/Omelettes

French Rolls

Chaffing Dish Specials for all BBQ meats

Variety of seafood and fish

Desert Station

MiamiUnder40 Monthly Happy Hour and Networking Mixer 4/24/14

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MiamiUnder40 Monthly Happy Hour and Networking Mixer
Thursday, 04/24/2014 – 06:00 pm – 10:00 pm
425flyer002Batch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St, Miami, FL 33130,
Miami, Florida 33130
Eventbrite Link
Cost: Free

On Thursday April 24th, Miami Under 40 host will their
Monthly Happy Hour & Networking Mixer

Come join us at Batch Gastropub in Brickell from 6 to 10 p.m. for a night of cocktails and the opportunity to meet and network with the finest of South Florida’s young professionals. Arrive promptly, dress with class and bring your ‘A’ game.

Come early to indulge in great food and drink specials!

Batch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St, Miami, FL 33130
6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Info: (786) 899-9809
Dress code is Business Casual

Miami Center For Architecture & Design, Downtown Miami Partnership and Dade Heritage Trust present A Taste Of Historic Downtown Miami 4/11/14

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Miami Center For Architecture & Design, Downtown Miami Partnership and Dade Heritage Trust present A Taste Of Historic Downtown Miami
175Friday, April 11, 2014, 6pm-9pm
Downtown East Flagler Street
Tickets: $35/per before April 10th, $45/person at the door.
Purchase Online

Check-in (6:00-7:30pm): Ingraham Building, 25 SE Second Avenue, Miami
Dade Heritage Trust and Downtown Miami Partnership invite you for a progressive evening where it all began in Historic Downtown Miami.

Join us on Friday, April 11th in Historic Downtown Miami and be transported to a bygone era when downtown was the center of commerce, debauchery and fun – secret tunnels, Al Capone, speakeasy clubs, movie premiers, parades and more!

Discover hidden architectural gems, back-alley stories, and downtown Miami’s history while enjoying:
• Improvisational theater performances by Front Yard Theatre Collective
• Live music by musicians from Buskerfest Miami
• Signature cocktails by Crown Concept/Grand Central
• Tasty appetizers from Miami Culinary Institute and Steak Brasil
• Art at CU-1 Gallery
• Mojitos and jazz
• Vintage cars
• “Speakeasy” Poker Run
• After party at The Bank Lounge where Al Capone stashed some of his cash!

Join us as we stroll along E. Flagler and “Avenue D” (Miami Avenue) for a unique adventure into Miami’s architectural and historic heritage.

April 11th from 6-9 PM

Come discover the architecture and stories of Historic Downtown Miami!

Tickets: $35/Person, Advanced Tickets
$45/Person, at the door

Check-In:
Grand Lobby and Great Tastes – Ingraham Building (1927)
@ 25 Se 2nd Avenue

Mojitos & Cuban Jazz – La Epoca (1936)
@ 200 E Flagler St

The Highlife at Alrfed I’s – Alfred I Dupont Building (1938)
@ 69 E Flagler St

Wine and Art – Security Building (1926)
@112 Ne 1st Avenue

A Grand Architectural Revival – Old Post Office (1912)
@ 100 Ne 1st Avenue

Miami’s first Roman Catholic Parish: Gesu Church (1921)
@ 118 Ne 1st Avenue

After Party:
Cocktails with Capone – The Bank Lounge (1927)
@ 139 Ne 1st Street

Celebrate Easter Brunch at The Armillary Grill 4/20/14

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Celebrate Easter Brunch at The Armillary Grill
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 11:00 am – 03:00 pm
INTER_Easter_AD_040914_FinalArmillary Grill (InterContinental at Doral Miami)
2505 NW 87TH Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33172
Facebook Link
Cost: Adults: $29.95, Children 10, under: $15.95 Under 5: Free

The Armillary Grill at the InterContinental at Doral Miami hotel has been one of the flagship establishments in Doral for the annual Easter Brunch celebration since its opening in 2000. Celebrate the Annual Easter Brunch at the InterContinental at Doral Miami and enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny followed by live entertainment of Latin/Caribbean soft music.

Escape for Easter Brunch 4/20/14

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Escape for Easter Brunch
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 07:30 am – 02:00 pm
Spartico
3000 Florida Ave,
Coconut Grove, Florida 33133
Webpage Link
Cost: $20.95 – $25.95

Visit The Mayfair Hotel & Spa to enjoy one of two prix-fixe menus for an early gourmet breakfast buffet or an artisanal breakfast and pizza buffet.

JohnMartin’s Easter Brunch 4/20/14

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JohnMartin’s Easter Brunch
Sunday, 04/20/2014 – 11:30 am – 02:00 pm
JohnMartin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
253 Miracle Mile,
Coconut Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Children $13.50, Adults $29.95

One of Miami’s oldest and highly cherished Irish gem’s, JohnMartin’s is inviting friends and family to join them for a delightful Easter Brunch. For a great value, guests can enjoy a generous variety of holiday classics including some Irish inspired dishes.
Guests can begin their brunch with an array of freshly baked goods, exotic fruit, domestic and imported cheeses, smoked salmon and seasonal salads. For something more savory, a breakfast station will be available for attendees to customize an omelet. Entrees will range from traditional roasted Leg of Lamb to JohnMartin’s novelty, Shepherd’s Pie. To end the meal with decadence, dessert selections include an Irish Sherry Trifle, Tiramisu, Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Mousse, fresh berries and more homemade treats. Those interested in attending Sunday’s buffet should make reservations by calling (305) 445-3777.

Erica Guzman / Aragon 101

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Aragon 101 is the home decor boutique and cooking school located in the heart of Coral Gables. Chat Chow TV sat down with owner Erica Guzman to learn more about the store and its popular cooking classes.

“The idea behind the store is merging the idea cuisine and home decor,” Guzman notes. “We focus a lot on table top and how you can have a great meal with the perfect ambiance.”

The cooking classes are held once a week for a group of 14 “students” of all varying levels. The classes are as interactive as attendees want them, with some people getting highly involved while others just want to watch and enjoy their meal.

“People come in here and can be part of it but not really be in the kitchen,” Guzman says. “And there is another set of people that come here and want to be involved and get their hands dirty. We welcome both.”

Aragon 101’s cooking classes showcase cuisine from all over the world using a variety of talent to conduct the classes including notable chefs, caterers, and chocolatier’s, depending on the class theme. Some popular recent themes have been recipes based out of the popular “Jerusalem” cookbook and a Moroccan dinner.

Find out more about the store and the classes, including how to sign up for one yourself, in the video above.

VeritageMiami 4/9/14-4/12/14

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VeritageMiami
Wednesday, April 9, with a Craft Beer Tasting at Wynwood Walls
Thursday, April 10, Fine Wine Tasting at the Village of Merrick Park
Friday, April 11, Interactive Dinner at the InterContinental Miami
Saturday, April 12, Auction & Wine Dinner on the diamond at Marlins Park
www.veritagemiami.com

veritagemiamiVeritageMiami brings together more than 4,000 wine and food lovers for four days of culinary indulgence. Since its inception, VeritageMiami has raised more than $12 million for the community. All proceeds support United Way of Miami Dade’s work in education, financial stability and health.

VeritageMiami is proud to announce its presenting sponsor City National Bank and that five of Miami’s most talented chefs will headline its signature Interactive Dinner on April 11, at the InterContinental Miami. Considered one of the year’s most unique culinary experiences, guests will team up and cook a five-course meal under the tutelage of the distinguished chefs, recently deemed Miami’s culinary “New Guard” by INDULGE Magazine: Alberto Cabrera of Bread + Butter, Todd Erickson of HaVen South Beach, José Mendín of The Pubbelly Restaurant Group, Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House and César Zapata of The Federal Food, Drink & Provisions. The chefs will bring their unique flavors and backgrounds as they guide guests in preparing the different courses, with Johnson & Wales culinary students serving as sous chefs and sommeliers. All proceeds benefit United Way of Miami-Dade.

“City National Bank is committed to giving back to the communities we serve, and United Way – because of its sustainable impact in the areas of education, healthy and financial stability – is the centerpiece of our efforts,” City National Bank President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez said. “As a community bank it is also great to support a festival that celebrates South Florida’s burgeoning food scene and these talented young chefs who have been hailed as the city’s new culinary guard.”

Alberto Cabrera is the executive chef of Bread + Butter in Coral Gables, where the Miami native embraces his Cuban-American roots – taking traditional dishes and revamping them by adding a modern spin, such as his Chicharron De Puerco with a truffle-black bean puree. Cabrera learned the art of cooking as he moved up the ranks at notable kitchens including Robbin Haas’ Chispa and the Miami extension of Madrid’s La Broche. At Bread + Butter, Cabrera infuses the carefree charm of Cuba’s mambo era with the modish slant of the modern American gastropub.
Todd Erickson is the executive chef of HaVen South Beach on Lincoln Road, a futuristic electric lounge offering innovative cocktails and some of the most refined food in the city. At HaVen, Erickson takes local, organic ingredients and transforms them into a variety of global small plates from crudos to duck sliders. Erickson got his culinary start at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and from there went on to open a catering company and three four-star restaurants in Dallas, Texas. After having such a successful start with HaVen, Erickson and the Haven Hospitality Group opened Huahua’s Taqueria just down the street. Erickson has also announced HaVen will be expanding this spring to include a full dinner menu.

José Mendín is the director of culinary operations for The Pubbelly Restaurant Group, the team who many Miami foodies credit for the local chef movement. Mendín, a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, worked for many well-known restaurants including Nobu and Sushi Samba, before opening Pubbelly Gastropub in Miami Beach with his Pubbelly Group partners Andreas Schreiner and Sergio Navarro. Since then, the Pubbelly Group has experienced incredible success and has expanded to include four more restaurants – PB Steak, Pubbelly Sushi, Barceloneta and the newest, L’Echon Brasserie. In 2012 and again this year, Mendín was distinguished as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef South, and most recently won Miami Cochon 555, a regional all-out pork cooking frenzy, and will compete in the Grand Cochon competition this summer.

Giorgio Rapicavoli is the executive chef of Eating House, the innovative pop-up restaurant turned Coral Gables mainstay. Rapicavoli burst onto the Miami food scene when he became the first Miami chef to win Food Network’s “Chopped” television competition. After winning the competition and $10,000 prize, Rapicavoli and business partner Alex Cassanova opened the Eating House pop-up. The venture was so successful that Eating House eventually opened as a full-time establishment at its original location in Coral Gables. In 2013, Rapicavoli was distinguished as a James Beard Award Rising Star chef semifinalist. Rapicavoli is also nominated for Culinary Innovator in this year’s ZESTtm Awards at Johnson & Wales University.

César Zapata is known as the “Stove Master and Pig Whisperer” of The Federal Food, Drink & Provisions. Before opening The Federal, Zapata changed the way South Floridians thought about food by opening Miami’s first pop-up restaurant, Phuc Yea!, in 2011. After its widespread success, Zapata and his business partner/wife Aniece Meinhold opened The Federal on Biscayne Boulevard. Since opening, The Federal has received praise from major publications such as Food & Wine Magazine and USA Today. As their next venture, Zapata and Meinhold are in the process of relaunching “Phuc Yea!” in a permanent location.

As of March 4, VeritageMiami sponsors include: Presenting sponsor City National Bank at the Gran Cru level; American Airlines and Marlins Park at the Vintner level; Bacardi USA, Bank of America, Carnival Foundation, Celebrity Cruises, Global Resources Registry, Greenberg Traurig and Village of Merrick Park at the Cellar Master level; BB&T, CBIZ, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Johnson & Wales University, Ryder System and World of Wine Guide at the Cooper level; Baptist Health South Florida, Cisco Systems, Deloitte Services, Ernst & Young, The Fairholme Foundation, Image Photo Services, Insight Direct USA, InterContinental Miami, LNR Property, Nestle Waters North America, Noven Pharmaceuticals, Northern Trust Corporation, World Fuel Services and Wynwood Walls at the Sommelier level. Media sponsors include: The Miami Herald – el Nuevo Herald, Indulge Magazine, WTVJ NBC 6, Wine Spectator, WLRN and Gables Magazine & CoralGablesRestaurants.com.

Go Green Fashionista: FabVIntage Collection Launch Party 4/5/14

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Go Green Fashionista: FabVIntage Collection LAUNCH PARTY
Saturday, 04/05/2014 – 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Launch-party-flyerLolaBlack Boutique
2507 183rd Street,
Miami Gardens, Florida 33056
Eventbrite Link
Cost: Free

“Go Green Fashionista” has been operating for 5+ years and has been successful in introducing eco fashion designers, eco companies, and much needed health awareness issues. Founder Fabienne Claude has decided to make a bigger impact on eco fashion opening a vintage store online, FabVintage Collection.
On Saturday, April 5th, 2014, Go Green Fashionista: FabVinatge Collection will be introduced to Miami by welcoming the store with a launch party and pop-up shop hosted by Lola Black Boutique, 2507 183rd St., Miami Gardens, 6-9pm.
Along with designer vintage clothing, jewelry and handbags at “giveaway” prices; wine sipping, dessert tasting, and of course VINTAGE SHOPPING while socializing with ” go green goddesses” alike will enhance the atmosphere. We’ll have the pleasure of having Birthday Cake Vineyards Wine involved to serve to the guests, My Cupcake Love with sweets, and a fashion show highlighting the best of FabVintage Collection featuring classic styles from 20’s-80’s high fashion. Soulful music sounds highlighting era’s from Billie Holiday and Nina Simone to Prince and Whitney Houston will place the mood and have most reminiscing and singing along. This is an RSVP ONLY event and we welcome media, fashion bloggers, and FASHIONISTA’s to be apart of this movement of fashion consciousness.This eco loving event will have you leaving the night feeling creative, fashionably smart, and more caring to mother earth. For your pleasure, we invited our fans favorite massage therapist, Jonathon Moore of Lotus In Hand Massage Therapy to relax those in need of a full body healing massage.
“Go Green Fashionista” will introduce this important era of living to YOU; the intrigued, the health enthusiast, the tree hugger, and the fashionista!

Check out FabVintage On Etsy! www.etsy.com/shop/gogreenfashionista

RSVP: love@gogreenfashionista.com

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Interested In FREE YOGA?!
* Sunday, 6pm classes available in Downtown Miami at Powerfit Studios inside The Opera Towers
1750 N Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL
MORE INFO: www.yogamiami.wordpress.com

“We heal ourselves as a people by becoming healers ourselves.” – Kemetic Proverb
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Gérard Betrand Wine Dinner with Michelin-Starred Chef, Yann Rio 4/2/14

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Gérard Betrand Wine Dinner with Michelin-Starred Chef, Yann Rio
Wednesday, 04/02/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:30 pm
nbtbNothing but the Best
2525 SW 3rd Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33129
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $75

You are Invited to a Gérard Betrand wine dinner on Wed., April 2nd at Nothing, but the Best. This French-fusion restaurant — located in “The Roads” — combines traditional French techniques with international and local flavors. At its helm is Chef Yann Rio, who was trained under French master chefs at Michelin-starred restaurants, and owned highly recognized restaurants in France, including the Michelin-starred Sequoia in Montepellier. Brian Liska from Gerard Betrand Wines will be at the event to walk the group through the tasting.

Cost for the dinner is $75 (inclusive of tax and gratuity) if purchased by March 30th and $80, thereafter. We are asking for a $20 payment to secure your spot, which will be applied to the price of your dinner. The balance of $55 ($75-$20) will be paid at the dinner.
Reserve your spot and learn more about the event at http://bit.ly/nbtb0402.

Highlights on the menu include: Marinated Tataki Fresh Salmon with green peppercorn, passion fruit sauce and green mango salsa; Flank Steak a la plancha with bacon-flavored Bordelaise Sauce; Fondant au Chocolate.

Cecconi’s New Aperitivo Menu 3/25/14

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Cecconi’s New Aperitivo Menu
Tuesday, 03/25/2014 – 05/03/2014 04:00 pm – 07:00 pm
cecconis4to7Cecconi’s
4385 Collins Avenue,
Miami Beach, Florida 33140
Webpage Link
Cost: $4-$7

4 to 7 at Cecconi’s Soho Beach House

Cecconi’s launches new Aperitivo Menu which includes food & drinks from $4 to $7.

Every Tuesday – Saturday

4pm to 7pm

Johnson & Wales University’s North Miami Campus Hosts Distinguished Visiting Chef Dinner with Richard Ingraham, Personal Chef to NBA Superstar Dwyane Wade 3/28/14

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Johnson & Wales University’s North Miami Campus Hosts Distinguished Visiting Chef Dinner with Richard Ingraham, Personal Chef to NBA Superstar Dwyane Wade
Friday, 03/28/2014 – 07:00 pm –
Johnson & Wales University’s North Miami campus
University Center 1701 NE 127th St.,
North Miami, Florida 33181
Webpage Link
Cost: $85 per person

Guests are invited to a delectable meal filled with culinary inspiration from Chef Ingraham. The menu will include hors d’oeuvres such as short rib deviled eggs, onion jam and crispy shallots; double stuffed mushrooms; and conch salad shooters. The main course will feature a four course meal with wine pairing. The first course will include a heirloom tomato and watermelon caprese salad. The second course will include mutton snapper, sweet rice, grits, brussels and saffron vanilla sauce. The third course will include seared scallops, parsnip puree, and sweet pea apple compote. The dessert will be a chocolate toffee bread pudding, en croute with Kahlua mousse and chocolate herb sauce.

A $2,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student from the university’s College of Culinary Arts. The dinner is open to the public at $85 per person. Seats are limited. RSVP to 305-892-7578.

Chef Richard Ingraham was born and raised in Miami. He trained at the Art Institute of Atlanta. A few years later, he was offered what is now his current position as Private Chef for the Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade. His world-class training, recognitions, and passion for fine cuisine and spirits has allowed him to create a network of private chefs called ChefRLI, LLC that serves a plethora of NBA, NFL, MLB, and entertainment personalities, as well as corporate clients across the country. Chef Ingraham has also joined JWU alumna Michelle Bernstein and Michael Schwartz in First Lady Michelle Obama’s Chefs Move 2 Schools White House Initiative to encourage healthier eating habits among our country’s youth. In 2013, ChefRLI combined efforts with Beyond the Boroughs Scholarship Fund Founder and NFL Vet Tutan Reyes to provide healthier eating options to kids in New York City.

Giralda Under the Stars 4/4/14

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Giralda Under the Stars
Friday, 04/04/2014 – 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
IMG_0243Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Whether it’s a craving for ceviche, an appetite for Mexican or even Vietnamese, Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars. Restaurant Row will be closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

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” →

Sushi and Sake 101 3/25/14, 4/29/14, 5/27/14, 6/24/14

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Sushi and Sake 101
Sunday, 03/25/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
DSC_1398Sushi Samba
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85.00

SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables is welcoming spring with the launch of SUSHI & SAKE 101. The two-hour interactive class introduces guests to the history and traditions of sake, the art of sushi making and offers an in-depth instruction about these two worldly traditions from resident experts.

The class consists of a two-part educational experience. The sake portion is led by SUSHISAMBA’s sake sommelier and includes five flights with an introduction to the history of sake, its common myths, pairing tips and more. In the second part of the class, participants will gain insider sushi-making tips from SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables’ Executive Sushi Chef Yasuo Tujimori, including an introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selection and preparation of raw fish.

Burger Beast Burger Brawl 5/9/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
Burger Beast Burger Brawl
Friday, 05/09/2014 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
burgrawl_36x48-copyMagic City Casino
450 NW 37th Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33125
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $50

Miami Lakes Automall – Burger Beast Brawl presented by Burger Maker

What if I told you that after 5 and a half years of writing about Burgers that I was putting together what I believe to be the Best Burger Competition line-up ever? Yup, that’s the idea behind the Burger Beast Burger Brawl.

On Friday May 9th from 7 to 10PM at Magic City Casino the inaugural Burger Beast Burger Brawl will go down. The attendees will vote one winner.

The $50 all inclusive tickets will get you:

-Samples from 20 great Burger Joints:
A&G Burger Joint
BITE Gastrotruck
Bread + Butter Counter
Buddha Burger
Burger & Beer Joint
Charm City Burger Company
Cheeseburger Baby
Eating House
Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill
Graziano’s
Jefe’s Original Soul Shack
Jersey Dawg
Josh’s Deli
Latin House Burger & Taco Bar
MEAT Eatery & Taproom
Pincho Factory
Shake Shack
Swine
Tucker Duke’s Lunchbox
Vega’s Burger Bar
-2013 Frita Showdown Champion El Rey de las Fritas’ Frita Cubana
-Sakaya Kitchen’s Chunk’d Tot Bar

-Desserts from Azucar Ice Cream Company, HipPOPs Handcrafted Gelato Bars, Marlie’s Delights, & Sugar Yummy Mama
-Beer Samplings from Samuel Adams
-CAWY Soft Drinks (Jupiña & Materva)
-Wine from Cerdà Llanos y Cià

You must be at least 21 years of age to attend.

Miami Eats 4/19/14

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Miami Eats
Saturday, 04/19/2014 – 09:00 am – 06:00 pm
Patricia & Phillip Frost Museum of Science
3280 South Miami Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33129
Webpage Link
Cost: Free with paid museum admission

The art and science of how Miami grows, cooks, enjoys (and burns off) food. We all
need food to survive, but how does making healthy and green choices affect our bodies
as well as the environment? At the 2nd Annual Miami Eats event, we invite the
community to share in the art and science of Miami’s food and fitness scene.

Visitors can learn healthy new recipes through cooking demos and workshops, interact with special guest chefs, explore new technologies in aero-, hydro-, and aqua-ponics, stimulate all their senses, get moving with fun breakout exercise sessions, and give back to the community through a food drive to benefit the local community.

Kevin D’Antonio / Dolce Italian

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Dolce Italian offers a contemporary take on Italian classics in the heart of Miami Beach. Located on Collins Avenue inside the Gale Hotel, the restaurant appeals to locals and visitors alike with its refined cuisine and approachable atmosphere. Chat Chow TV sat down with Dolce’s Director of Food and Beverage, Kevin D’Antonio, to learn more about the restaurant and its recent anniversary.

Dolce prides itself on preparing its cuisine in true Italian fashion complete with pastas made in-house, mozzarella that’s pulled to order and pizzas prepared in a wood burning oven.

“One of the best things about this restaurant is the moment you walk in you get a little smell of that wood burning oven,” says D’Antonio.

The year-old restaurant just added plenty of new items to its menu to celebrate its first anniversary including a new “grill” section, revamped appetizers, an expanded wine list, and a new family style Sunday dinner with dishes meant to share between four and six people.

D’Antonio feels that the Gale Hotel is a “one stop shop” and encourages guests to have a complete night at the hotel with drinks at The Regent, dinner at Dolce and then dance the night away downstairs at Rec Room.

Curious when brunch service will start at Dolce? Or what some of D’Antonio’s favorite dishes are? Check out the video above to find out that and more.

Sushi & Sake 101 3/25/14

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Sushi & Sake 101
Tuesday, 03/25/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
SushiSAMBA Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85

SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables rings in the spring with an old favorite at its new location. The executive culinary team is taking on Sushi & Sake 101 by offering the opportunity to learn how to choose sushi-grade fish, which tools are needed for the process, and tips and techniques from the pros. Sushi & Sake 101 pupils will also learn about types of sake, its history, and methods of production alongside tastings of five flights of sake. Featuring the only outdoor bar and robata grill in the Gables, this monthly curriculum accents SUSHISAMBA’s raw bar concept in a uniquely educational and social setting.

The class will include:

• A sake history, tasting and pairing from South Florida’s most expansive sake menu, hand selected by the in-house sake master
• An introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selecting and cutting of raw fish
• Instruction and creation of a sushi roll of choice, with the added bonus of eating the masterpiece paired with the perfect sake

Food trucks Tuesdays at haulover beach 3/18/14

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Food trucks Tuesdays at haulover beach
Tuesday, 03/18/2014 – 03/18/2014 05:00 pm – 09:30 pm
imageFood trucks Tuesdays at haulover beach
10800 Collins ave bell harbor fl 33154,
Haulover beach, Florida 33154
Webpage Link
Cost: Free event free parking

Picnic under the stars!!!

New event coming to town on every Tuesdays at haulover beach from 5pm to 9 30pm. Come happy come hungry.

Ms. Cheezious ,Latin Burger, The Empanada Truck, arepabox ,Jefe’s Original Fish Taco and Burger, Dolci Peccati Gelato,Churromania truck, Food Junkies on Wheels.

R House Opens in Wynwood

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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.

 

 

 

 

Photos-Ikura Sushi Lounge Introduces New Menu during Giralda Under the Stars by Mr Q 305.

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It was another magnificent evening in Coral Gables during Giralda Under the Stars, that is the seasonal/monthly event put together by Downtown Coral Gables.

Ikura Sushi Lounge debuted new menu items which ranged from crunchy Giralda Rolls to a deliciously baked Tom-Atu Heat.

Here are the images:

MrQ305 on Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Dinner Lab Miami Now Open for Adventurous Foodies

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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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salty

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.

 

Photographs of Eats and Beats

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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.

 

 

 

 

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series to Feature Montserrat Franco 3/13/14

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Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series to Feature Montserrat Franco
Thursday, 03/13/2014 – 03/13/2014 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Restaurant-Michael-Schwartz-logoRestaurant Michael Schwartz
1775 Collins Ave,
Miami, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series will feature incredibly versatile Montserrat Franco. Franco’s talent has captivated audiences around the world and she has been featured as CNN en Espanol’s “Woman of the Week.” Guests who RSVP in advance to RMS@sbe.com will have access to an intimate meet-and-greet with Franco in The Martini Bar.

During intermission, a representative from Steinway & Sons will present the Steinway Cultural Achievement Award to Dr. Milton Ruben Laufer, the Dean of the New World School of the Arts, in recognition of his important contributions to local arts and culture.

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series is a partnership with Steinway & Sons and a weekly live music program featuring performances by Grammy Award-winning musicians and some of the most in-demand artists in jazz. For more information, please visit www.RaleighHotel.com.

Daniel Boulud / db Bistro Moderne

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Daniel Boulud needs little introduction. The legendary French chef has won every culinary accolade known to man and owns and operates some of the best restaurants in the world. Chat Chow TV recently had the opportunity to sit down with Boulud to learn more about his delicious cuisine and newly released cookbook.

For his Miami outpost, db Bistro Moderne, Boulud envisioned a classic French bistro that guests could frequent often with light, approachable fare. Along with the delectable food, Boulud notes that service is a very important element at all his restaurants and he and his team spend a lot of time training the wait staff so guest’s experience goes smoothly.

While DB Bistro Moderne has only been open a few years, his famous three-starred Michelin restaurant Daniel just turned 20. To celebrate the anniversary Boulud released his newest cookbook DANIEL: My French Cuisine. The book features unaltered recipes from the restaurant along with essays, beautiful photography of his classic dishes, and his favorite items to cook at home.

Curious what Boulud thinks of people photographing their food at restaurants? Or what his favorite candy is? Find out all that and more in the video.

As an added bonus one lucky Chat Chow TV viewer will win a signed copy of DANIEL: My French Cuisine so they can try out the recipes for themselves. Register below for your chance to win. Winner will be chosen randomly on March 21st.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Artistas Unidos Por La Paz En Venezuela 3/7/14

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Artistas Unidos Por La Paz En Venezuela
Friday, 03/07/2014 – 07:00 pm – 02:00 am
VENEZUELA-FLYERMPP Brickell
141 SW 7th St
Miami, Florida 33130
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Tenemos el agrado de invitar a toda la comunidad venezolano en Miami y a todas aquellas personas que quieran acompanrnos a una noche en la que peruanos, mexicanos, colombianos y de todas las nacionalidades, nos uniremos con un solo fin, la paz en Venezuela, sera un evento gratutito donde se reuniran diversos artistas por la mas noble causa… el fin de la violencia en nuestro hermano pais Venezuela! Los esperamos!

MPP Brickell- Mi Propiedad Privadami al evento
Artistas Unidos Por Venezuela
MPP Brickell – Artists United For Venezuela

Winn-Dixie Family Zone Celebrates Family, Food, Fun And Culture At Calle Ocho 3/9/14

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Winn-Dixie Family Zone Celebrates Family, Food, Fun And Culture At Calle Ocho
Sunday, 03/09/2014 – 11:00 am – 05:00 pm
Winn-Dixie-at-Calle-Ocho-1El Dorado Furniture Parking Lot
2475 S.W. 8th Street,
Miami, Florida 33135
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

The Winn-Dixie Family Zone is the place to be for families to celebrate the excitement of Calle Ocho at the annual street festival. Families are invited to visit the Winn-Dixie Family Zone for an afternoon of food and fun with special appearances by local celebrity Chef Pepin, local radio personality Liliani Gonzalez of Mix 98.3 FM, Kool-Aid Man, Mr. Peanut, Mr. Oreo, the Sour Patch Man, the Planters NUTmobile, the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile and the Coca-Cola Freestyle Truck, as well as enjoy cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, rock climbing, bounce houses, photo booths, interactive games, face painting, product sampling, giveaways and more.

Winn-Dixie invites shoppers to stay updated on the excitement of Calle Ocho and join the conversation by becoming a fan of Winn-Dixie’s Latino Facebook page at www.facebook.com/winndixielatino or by following us on Twitter @WinnDixieLatino and @winndixie and using #WDCalleOcho.

American Social Brings Home Best Bites On Beach At South Beach Wine & Food Festival 3/10/14-3/31/14

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American Social Brings Home “Best Bites On Beach” At South Beach Wine & Food Festival
Monday, 03/10/2014 – 03/31/2014 11:30 am – 01:00 am
americansocial-thumb-350x200American Social
721 E. Las Ola Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Webpage Link
Cost: $10

American Social’s Foie Gras French Toast was awarded the coveted Miami New Times Short Order’s “Best Bites on the Beach” at the annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s Grand Tasting Village. More than 6,000 hungry guests visited the sand for the sampling smorgasbord on Feb. 22nd. Out of 40 of South Florida’s most popular restaurants, AmSo’s sweet and savory dish took home the prestigious prize.

In celebration of its tasting takeover, AmSo is offering samples of its award-winning dish for $10 (orig. $16) from March 10th through 31st when patrons mention “Best Bites”. Stop by and sample the homemade and fluffy miniature orange and ginger battered pieces of French toast topped with seared foie gras, a dollop of Maury Island blackberry jam, a drizzle of bourbon maple syrup and finished with powdered sugar and lightly sweetened Mascarpone cheese.

Get Stuffed with Café Prima Pasta and Celebrate National Ravioli Day With Complimentary Pasta Bites 3/20/14

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Get Stuffed with Café Prima Pasta and Celebrate National Ravioli Day With Complimentary Pasta Bites
Thursday, 03/20/2014 – 05:00 pm – 12:00 am
imagesCafe Prima Pasta
414 71st Street,
Miami Beach, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost:

A pinnacle in pasta history, Thursday, March 20th is National Ravioli Day and Café Prima Pasta is celebrating with free Fiocchi Rapera bites for every patron.

Upon arrival, guests will receive a complimentary Bellini made with fresh peach puree and authentic Italian champagne followed by an individual Fiocchi Rapera, a homemade pasta purse stuffed with Asian pear and an array of gourmet cheeses tossed in a truffle sauce with crispy prosciutto.

In addition, dinners can enjoy a wide variety of homemade ravioli on the menu including pasta pockets filled with crabmeat and finished with a creamy lobster sauce ($18.95) and spinach and ricotta ravioli in a rich vodka sauce ($16.95).

Get Seduced at Scarpetta

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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.

crudo

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.

IMG_0820

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.

Photographs from the South Beach Wine & Food Festival Grand Tasting on 2/22/14

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South Beach Wine & Food Festival Grand Tasting on Sunday, February 22, 2014.  The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE.

“The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE is a national, star-studded, four-day destination event showcasing the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. Hosted by Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida and Florida International University (FIU), the Festival benefits FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the Southern Wine & Spirits Beverage Management Center. To date, the Festival has raised more than $18 million for the School.”

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Ikura Sushi Lounge – A Diamond in the Raw

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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.

Passage to India: Gourmet Cooking and Eating with Master Cooking Teacher Ayesha 4/1/14

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Passage to India: Gourmet Cooking and Eating with Master Cooking Teacher Ayesha
Tuesday, 04/01/2014 – 04/01/2014 06:30 pm – 08:00 pm
Miami Culinary Institute
415 NE Second Ave,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link
Cost: $20

Ayesha joins The Big Read and presents her legendary cooking class, followed by a feast, in the state-of-the-art wine theater at the Miami Culinary Institute (MCI). Ayesha’s Kitchen offers more than knowing how to put together a delicious Indian meal, it takes you on a mystical journey through the legacy of authentic Indian traditional cuisine translating into a rich experience where every meal can be a grand celebration.

It was all about the Margaritas to celebrate National Margarita Day with El Jimador Tequila by Betty Alvarez

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El Jimador Tequila was proud to represent National Margarita Day on February 22 with the final event of a two week long competition that took place at the Wynwood hotspot known as The Social Lubricant Lounge.

Five Mixologists from five of South Florida’s most well-known venues battled it out at the Social Lubricant Lounge to find out who made Miami’s best Spicy Margarita!

The Five South Florida locations and their head mixologists include:
-TWIST represented by Nathan Smith,
-Baires Grill represented by Plamen Atanasov,
-The Social Lubricant Lounge represented by Ronaldo Shehadeh,
-Tarpon Bend represented by Christopher Garcia,
-TequiztLan Mexican Restaurant represented by Stephanie Ortiz.

The finale event served to engage with consumers in a unique way that encourages them to enjoy el Jimador in a truly dynamic array of settings. DJ Miik presided over the turntables as guests got a Mixology Lesson where they learned how to make simple cocktails which can be easily reproduced in the comfort of their home or when out on the town. During this experience, they literally poured, shaked, and served up their very own take on the perfect el Jimador Margarita!

Adding to the fun, guests were part of different stations to include the “Shake and Bite,” “Mixology Lab,” and “Social Mixology Demo” where once they’ve learned to make a delicious cocktail, they presented it via a brief digital video that they can quickly post to their social media platform. Immediately, they were able to share their personal recipe with friends and followers. The grand finale of the event was the announcement of the winner of the best el Jimador Spicy Margarita in South Florida!

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series to Feature Mike Orta Latin Jazz Trio 2/27/14

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Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series to Feature Mike Orta Latin Jazz Trio
Thursday, 02/27/2014 – 02/27/2014 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Restaurant-Michael-Schwartz-logoRestaurant Michael Schwartz
1775 Collins Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Webpage Link
Cost:

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series will feature the acclaimed Mike Orta Latin Jazz Trio. The trio is led by the director of Jazz Performance at Florida International University and renowned music professor Mike Orta. Orta has over 30 years of experience in the music industry, which has made him a popular performer and entertainer. Guests who RSVP in advance to RMS@sbe.com will have access to an intimate meet-and-greet with the performers in The Martini Bar.

During intermission, a representative from Steinway & Sons will present the Steinway Cultural Achievement Award to Chef Michael Schwartz in recognition of his important contributions to local arts and culture.

Restaurant Michael Schwartz Live Concert Series is a partnership with Steinway & Sons and a weekly live music program featuring performances by Grammy Award-winning musicians and some of the most in-demand artists in jazz. For more information, please visit www.RaleighHotel.com.

Mom’s Night Out 3/15/14

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Mom’s Night Out
Saturday, 03/15/2014 – 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm
logo_mno_sample2-2The Hangar
2235 NW 2nd Ave,
Wynwood, Florida 33127
RSVP Link
Cost: FREE

We have your invitation to one of the most widely anticipated Mom’s Night Out Celebrations in South Florida. Whether you want a night out to disconnect from your hectic schedule or an evening spent making memories with your girlfriends, Mom’s Night Out is the perfect remedy for any busy mom.

Join us for a fun filled evening honoring moms of all ages. Shop special promotions from participating fine retailers while you enjoy sips, snacks and giveaways.

General Admission is FREE. We also have VIP tickets available for $5.00 which include an amazing gift bag you won’t want to miss out on.

Giralda Under The Stars 3/7/14

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Giralda Under The Stars
Friday, 03/07/2014 – 04/04/2014 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
IMG_0243Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Whether it’s a craving for ceviche, an appetite for Mexican or even Vietnamese, Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars. Restaurant Row will be closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

You’ll Be Addicted to Food Junkies on Wheels

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Southern Cookin’ Done Right

Displaying photo.JPG

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.

 

 

 

Art on Palm and Classic Car and Bike Show 2/22/14

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Art on Palm and Classic Car and Bike Show
Saturday, 02/22/2014 – 02/22/2014 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
AOPflyerfebPalm Avenue
501 Palm Ave,
Hialeah, Florida 33010
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Join us for the Art on Palm festival presented by Presidente Supermarkets on Saturday, February 22nd from 12-10pm on Palm Avenue between Okeechobee and 9th Street. The festival includes the Florida Blue art show, live musical entertainment on three stages, an interactive kid zone, street performers, dominoes, food trucks and the Palm Classic – a classic car and bike show.

Jim Heins / Latin Burger And Taco

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The food truck that started the craze in Miami, Latin Burger and Taco, recently opened the doors on its first ever brick and mortar location in the heart of Coral Gables. Chat Chow TV sat down with owner Jim Heins to find out more about his new restaurant, its menu and its famous burgers.

Guests can find the iconic look of the truck throughout the restaurant with the bright pink walls and black detailing. Decorating the walls is custom pop art of Heins’ favorite artists eating burgers, which is a nod to the restaurant and to Heins love of art.

The restaurant’s menu stays true the cuisine found in the Latin Burger and Taco trucks but serves a larger variety of offerings including more upscale tacos, and according to the Heins the burgers still remain king.

“Being from Texas and loving the taco tradition, I said we’re going to do an upper-end taco,” notes Heins. “We hired chefs and everything and our hamburgers are still outselling our tacos.”

There’s good reason for that as his Latin Macho burger has won many accolades including recently being named the “Best Dade County Burger” at the 2014 Burgie Awards. The burger is made with an Angus patty mixed with Argentine chorizo and special spices, and then topped with caramelized onions, Oaxaca cheese and a special red pepper mayo.

The burger is so good in fact that it landed on the Joe’s Takeaway menu — the first item from an outside vendor to do so in more than 100 years.

Curious what inspired Heins to get into the food truck business to begin with? Or why he chose Coral Gables for his first location? Find out all that and more in the video above.

Cafe Prima Pasta Serves “His and Hers” Valentine’s Day Menus 2/14/14

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Cafe Prima Pasta Serves “His and Hers” Valentine’s Day Menus
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 07:00 pm –
Cafe Prima Pasta
414 71st St.,
Miami Beach, Florida 33141
Webpage Link
Cost: $75

That’s amore! Café Prima Pasta is setting the mood this Valentines’ Day with a “sunset special” of select, half-priced dishes and drinks at 5 p.m. followed by two different prix fixe menus. The evening “duet” menus include “his” and “hers” four-course tastings composed of the restaurant’s most desirable dishes. Ladies are treated to the “Perlei” menu of Insalata Pomodori e Mozzarella, heart-shaped Ravioli du Cuore with grilled asparagus, Branzino Clieno with julienne zucchini roasted in white wine, and Dolce della Passione tartuffaro. Gentlemen will enjoy the hearty “Perlui” menu of Insalata Aqua Marina with jumbo shrimp, scallops, calamari, mussells and clams, Al Tartuffo e Funghi topped with decadent truffles, Costine di Manzo, and Carmello e Cioccolato.

Give Your Heart Away at American Social’s Single Awareness Day Celebration 2/14/14

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Give Your Heart Away at American Social’s Single Awareness Day Celebration
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:14 pm
American Social Bar
721 E. Las Olas Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Webpage Link
Cost:

Looking for somewhere to celebrate solitude this Valentine’s Day? Stop into American Social’s “Give Your Heart Away” soirée to mix and mingle with other eligible bachelors and bachelorettes. Ladies enjoy custom cocktails throughout the night for $2.14 with the purchase of an appetizer. Get adorned with a string of festive Mardi-Gras inspired beads upon entry and enjoy complimentary bar bites throughout the night. Whoever gets the most beads by the end of the evening will be crowned kind or queen of hearts and receive a $50 restaurant gift card.

Celebrate National Drink Wine Day at Shula’s on the Beach 2/18/14

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Celebrate National Drink Wine Day at Shula’s on the Beach
Tuesday, 02/18/2014 – 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
winetastingShula’s on the Beach
321 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304
Webpage Link
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door

Savor Tonight invites you to Shula’s on the Beach on Feb. 18th to celebrate National Drink Wine Day. Guests will gather together for a fun-filled evening complete with great food, fine wine and even better company. Cost for this event is $15 in advance (before 4pm on 2/18) or $20, thereafter. This includes two (2) glasses of wine and a selection of complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Shula’s will be highlighting samples from their new lunch menu.

Complimentary valet parking will be offered — and each guest in attendance will receive a Shula’s VIP card. This is good for 15% off of dinner after the event, or anytime the guest dines at Shula’s for an entire year.

BUY NOW: http://bit.ly/shulas0218

Cochon 555 Miami 2014

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Goose Island Beer Company welcomed hundreds of guests to The Four Seasons Hotel and Cochon 555 this past Sunday afternoon. Cochon 555 is a tour that celebrates the sustainable farming of heritage breed pigs. Five chefs, Five pig breeds, Five wineries.  A cooking competition between five local chefs was the centerpiece of the event, but there were plenty of other activities and stations to check out.

My wife and I started with the Goose Island “Goose Nest” where the brewery paired two of its vintage ales with Foie Gras and other Duck items. But the rest of the event was focused on the pigs. Chefs Aaron Brooks, Conor Hanlon, Bradley Herron, Dena Marino and Jose Mendin each made five or six dishes for the guests to try. They were scattered throughout the banquet hall with other areas of interest to visit in between.

One of my personal favorites was “The Perfect Manhattan” station which was serving up terrific cocktails made with Templeton Rye and a few other terrific bourbons. There was a “Pop-Up Butcher Shop” where one of the pigs was butchered in a demonstration benefiting Johnson & Wales University. The butchered pig was sold on the spot. Oh yeah, and before the pig was cut up, the dudes from Miami Ink tattooed it with a Cochon 555 themed piece of art!

A cocktail competition called Punch Kings was another very popular spot. Five drinks using Breckenridge Bourbon were created for everyone to try. There were cheese stations, oysters, killer Prosciutto by Prosciutto di Parma, and several wineries. I did not miss the opportunity to sip on some Four Roses Bourbon either.

In the end, Chef Jose Mendin from Pub Belly prevailed as the winning “Prince of Porc!”

Great event! Can’t wait for next year.

Photographs from Palette Miami Festival on 2/8/14

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Palette Miami Festival on Saturday, February 8, 2014.

“Palette Miami Festival is a day of celebrating what makes Miami, well…..Miami. Its neighborhoods, people, culture and flavor. This event is a Palette of everything in one, featuring local restaurants, artist, vendors, live music and performers. At Palette Miami you will sip, sample, taste, listen and experience the best of what Miami has to offer. “

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Goose Island Beer Company Presents Cochon 555 at Four Seasons Miami

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photo (12)Just cracked open a beer and poured it into my Goose Island beer glass. I know you think that’s just me lying for a good segue into this article, which is precisely why I took a picture to prove it to you!

OK, so seriously, I’ll be going to the Cochon 555 event on Sunday. And it’s going to kick ass! Read about the event, the chefs, the bourbon below. After the event, I’ll be posting pictures, entertaining commentary (duh), and whatever else I can think of. Since Goose Island is going out of their way to show you how to pair their vintage line of beers (which I adore) with all the pork, I’ll be talking about that part of the evening on my DailyBeerReview.com site. Tickets are still available. Click the link above to go to the event page if you’d like to purchase them. And heck, you see what I look like, so say hello! I’ll be the guy with the hot 40 something chick!

Four Seasons Miami, Host Venue
February 9th, 2014

COCHON US TOUR & GOOSE ISLAND BEER CO. HUMBLY PRESENT COCHON555. Over 11 tons of heritage pork raised by family farms will be served across the country in a nose-to-tail touring culinary competition. Going on its sixth year, Cochon 555 is the nation’s premier culinary tour touting the flavor and health benefits of eating heritage breed pigs. The kickoff event features an all-star lineup of five chefs, five pigs and five wineries to celebrate breed diversity and family farming. A panel of 20 expert judges and guests of the event will vote for the city’s “Prince or Princess of Porc.”

This year’s competing chefs include Jose Mendin of The Pubbelly Group, Conor Hanlon of The Dutch, Bradley Herron of Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Aaron Brooks of EDGE Steak & Bar and Dena Marino of MC Kitchen. The five chefs, champions to the pig, will battle it out in a friendly competition by preparing a maximum of six dishes each created from one whole heritage breed pig to win votes from a crowd of hungry gourmands and celebrated judges. Jason Pringle of db Bistro Moderne will also prepare a feature sixth pig.

Host Chef Aaron Brooks, Executive Chef at Four Seasons Hotel Miami, will lead the pack of judges in selecting Miami’s “Prince of Porc.” Other notable judges include David Thomas from The Bazaar by Jose Andres, Timon Balloo of Bocce Bar and Chef Norman Van Aken following the release of his new book, No Experience Necessary. The winner will go on to compete in the Grand Cochon at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen in June for bragging rights as the “King or Queen of Porc” and a four-day wine experience to Rioja, Spain’s most prominent wine region.

“Heritage Breed Pigs celebrate the history of the animal and this humane treatment is something all chefs should be behind,” states Jose Mendin. “I grew up on an island where this practice is normal and eating pig is an essential part of the culture, so it just seems the only way to me. As for the event, I’m so excited to compete, I can barely stand it. Such a great line-up of chefs; I’m eager to see what everyone puts out. Game on.”

A 1200+ pound showcase of heritage pig carved into 30 chef-prepared dishes will also include: “The Goose Nest,” an area featuring the Vintage Ales of Goose Island Beer Co. paired with Hudson Valley Foie Gras; live butchering demonstration at the Pop-Up Butcher Shop with Thomas Griese of Michael Mina 74, benefitting Johnson & Wales University with the support of Williams-Sonoma; different ages of Prosciutto di Parma ranging between 14 and 30 months, sliced by a roaming Berkel and by hand off a bone-in leg; the “Punch Kings” cocktail competition featuring five local barkeeps presented by Breckenridge Bourbon; a welcome cocktail from Four Roses Bourbon; the Bourbon Bar presented by Breadcrumb by Groupon featuring Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace, Breckenridge Bourbon, Hirsch, Templeton Rye and Luxardo; libations including Crispin Cider, Wines of Rioja, Elk Cove Vineyards, Barlow Vineyards, and a Mezcal Bar with Fidencio and Mezcales de Leyenda; a TarTare Bar featuring Creekstone Farms; an artisan cheese bar with Rogue Creamery and La Brea Bakery; Swine & Sweets signature dessert course featuring Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.

Defending his title from last year, Host Chef Aaron Brooks will kick off the weekend on Friday night with a guest chef dinner at EDGE Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons. Event judges include David Thomas from The Bazaar by Jose Andres, Timon Balloo of Bocce Bar and Chef Norman Van Aken following the release of his new book, No Experience Necessary.

“I’m passionate about promoting food sources that support a more natural, sustainable food system,” explains Brady Lowe, founder of Cochon 555. “For the first time ever, I am very pleased to welcome Goose Island Beer Co. into the family of events as a presenting sponsor of the 2014 U.S. Tour. One event cannot change the system, but together we can celebrate the chefs and farmers who continue to tilt the scales back towards responsibly grown food.”

The COCHON 555 event is 100% inclusive and always on Sunday.

Tickets for Cochon 555 events are $125 (general admission) and $200 (VIP). GENERAL ADMISSION price includes over 30 dishes prepared from the entirety of heritage breed pigs from nose to tail, paired with premium wines, brews and spirits. Both ticket prices includes endless drink and tons of food. GA starts at 5pm. VIP starts at 4pm, and includes one-hour early access to all the food (premium access to limited experiences like Punch Kings, wines and spirits), a chance to hang with the celebrity chefs, judges and media. Everyone is invited to the After Party at Edge Steakhouse, as always.

This epic porc event is over 1200 pounds of heritage pig packed with 100% flavor! Please keep in mind we sell about 60% of tickets before the complete event details are ever released, so if you like what you see, we suggest not waiting so buy a ticket. If you are interested in being a sponsor of Cochon, please contact us.

“I’m passionate about promoting food sources that support a more natural, sustainable food system,” explains Brady Lowe, founder of Cochon 555. “For the first time ever, I am very pleased to welcome Goose Island Beer Co. into the family of events as a presenting sponsor of the 2014 U.S. Tour. One event cannot change the system, but together we can celebrate the chefs and farmers who continue to tilt the scales back towards responsibly grown food.”

Where: Four Seasons Miami Hotel
1435 Brickell Avenue, Miami, Florida 33131, USA
When: Sunday 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

 

Cupid Works at Juana M Brickell 2/12/14

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Cupid Works at Juana M Brickell
Wednesday, 02/12/2014 – 02/12/2014 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Cupid-Love-_-Juana-M-BrickellJuana M Brickell
923 Brickell Avenue,,
Miami, Florida 33131
Eventbrite Link
Cost: Free

Next Wednesday, Feb 12
Cupid Works at Juana M !
From 6 to 9PM

Come enjoy our special
Pre-Valentine’s Day
Happy Hour
Tunes by DJ Steven B

Music + Singing Contest + Prizes

RSVP & Enjoy a Complimentary
LOVE POTION COCKTAIL

923 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131
Valet Located: The Plaza Building
951 Brickell Avenue,
PH (786) 693-2752 www.juanambrickell.com

Kitchen Hop The Foodie’s Crawl 2/8/14

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Kitchen Hop The Foodie’s Crawl
Saturday, 02/08/2014 – 02/08/2014 02:00 pm – 08:00 pm
The-Kitchen-Hop-5x7-genericMary Brickell Village
900 South Miami Ave,
Miami, Florida 33131
Eventbrite Link
Cost: 35.00

Are you ready for a restaurant crawl of epic proportions? Zevents is bringing Miami foodies Kitchen Hop, a delectable experience any food lover can’t pass up on. Zevents brought together 10 major hot spot restaurants for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, featuring cuisines from all around the world. The Kitchen Hop Food Crawl kicks off at Mary Brickell Village on February 8th from 2-8 p.m. Guest will enjoy bites from Brickell’s top restaurants, giving their palate a little bit of Mexican, Italian, Greek & American flavors just to name a few.

“The Kitchen Hop provides an ideal way to get to know a variety of dining venues
alongside many other food adventurers,” said Silvia Morales.

Each participant will join the crawl by sampling chef’s top selections, discovering
culinary gems one taste at a time. This event includes local favorites such as Taverna Opa,
Toscana Divino, Oceanaire, Fado Irish pub, Rosa Mexicano, Balans, Burger & Beer Joint,
Brother Jimmy’s, and many more. Guests will also enjoy drink specials throughout the day
to wash everything down. The party doesn’t stop at 8 p.m. though; guests will also be
invited to keep the festivities going at the official Kitchen Hop after party at Blue
Martini. Make sure to save your energy during the epic food crawl for live music,
giveaways and specialty cocktail discounts. Kitchen Hop guests will be granted a
complimentary cocktail at Blue Martini to start the night off right.

For tickets and more information please visit www.thekitchenhop.com. Tickets are $35.
Mary Brickell Village is located at 900 South Miami Avenue Miami, Florida 33130

Town of Surfside Third Thursday Entertainment Event 2/20/14

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Town of Surfside Third Thursday Entertainment Event
Thursday, 02/20/2014 – 03/20/2014 07:00 pm –
Town of Surfside
9500 Harding Ave,
Surfside, Florida 33154
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

The Town of Surfside will showcase the new downtown enhancements and officially inaugurate these improvements with a ribbon cutting ceremony, during the Town’s Third Thursday event on February 20, 2014 at 7 PM. The monthly entertainment series features an array of entertainment from live music and dancing to food trucks for residents and visitors alike. Third Thursdays takes place off 95th Street between Collins and Harding Avenues and is a free family friendly event for all.

The Kitchen Hop | A Restaurant Hop Experience 2/8/14

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The Kitchen Hop | A Restaurant Hop Experience
The_Kitchen_Hop_5x7_genericSaturday, February 8, 2-8pm
901 S Miami Ave
Brickell Miami, FL
For tickets 
Use Promocode:"Zevents" for  more than 50% OFF your ticket.
For discounted parking, pre-purchase here

The Kitchen Hop "The Foodies Crawl"
This Saturday  The Kitchen Hop will take over the Mary Brickell Village area with a restaurant crawl of epic proportions. The delectable event will feature more than 10 of the area’s best spots, including Oceanaire, Dolores Lolitas, Toscana Divino, Fado Irish Pub & The Confession Box, Burger & Beer Joint, Balans, Taverna Opa, Tapas Benidorm, Blue Martini, and Brother Jimmy’s BBQ.

Attendees will bounce from one kitchen to another, sampling chef-selected appetizers or entrees at each stop. Live entertainment and DJs  will be jamming from 4 to 8pm. You’ll also enjoy drink specials throughout the afternoon to wash everything down ($3 Modelo Beer, $5 Three Olives Cocktails). Come evening, you’ll head to the after party at Blue Martini for a complimentary welcome cocktail and some more live entertainment. The Kitchen Hop is sure to be this winter’s tastiest event.

Photographs of 5th Annual Burgie Awards Block Party at at Esplanade Park on 2/1/14

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Burger Beast 5th Annual Burgie Awards Block Party at Esplanade Park on Saturday, February 1, 2014.

The 2014 Burger Beast Burgie Award Winners:

Best Dade County Burger: Latin House Burger & Taco Bar
Best Broward/Palm Beach Burger: Charm City Burger Company
Best Chef: George Patti – MEAT Eatery & Taproom
Best Chili: Burger Bar
Best Dessert: Fireman Derek’s World Famous Pies
Food Truck Invasion – Best Dessert Truck: HipPOPs Handcrafted Gelato Bars
Best Doughnut: Mojo Donuts
Food Truck Invasion – Best Food Truck Dade County: Ms. Cheezious
Food Truck Invasion – Best Food Truck Broward/Palm Beach County: The Rolling Stove
JM Lexus People’s Choice Food Truck: BC Tacos
Best French Fries: Blue Collar
Best Non-Traditional Burger: Toston Burger – Pincho Factory
Best Restaurant: Blue Collar
Best Sandwich: Pan con Bistec – Cuban Guys
Best Sausage: Proper Sausages

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Brickell’s Oceanaire: Sumptuously Sexy Seafood

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A Charismatic, Caring and Talented Chef

kareem

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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.  :)

Celebrate Love at Armillary Grill 2/14/14

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Celebrate Love at Armillary Grill
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 05:00 pm – 11:00 pm
VDAYREVISIONInterContinental at Doral Miami
2505 NW 87th Ave,
Doral, Florida 33172
Facebook Link
Cost: $35.99 – $59.99

Treat your better half to a wonderful menu created by the InterContinental at Doral Miami’s chefs especially for Valentine’s Day. For $35.99, savor a champagne inspired meal and Godiva dessert. For $59.99 per person, a bottle of champagne will be included per couple.

For reservations call 305-468-1400 Ext. 4318.

Romance in the Sky 2/14/14

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Romance in the Sky
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 06:00 pm –
Atrio
1395 Brickell Ave,
Miami, Florida 33131
Webpage Link
Cost: $95.00 per person

Indulge in a little romance at the Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room. Spoil your significant other with a delectable 3-course meal . Dine in decadence as you take in breathtaking views of Miami’s city lights as a violinist sets the tone for a romantic evening.

Lovebirds can relish in their romance and start with options like a refreshing Octopus Carpaccio served with a fried oyster salad, or enjoy an entrée of a rich Beef Tenderloin accompanied by truffle bread and butter pudding and seared foie gras. The evening will end with a Salted Chocolate Délice topped with Kahlua Crème fraîche and lychee mousse.

The price-fixe menu is $95.00 per adult, seating starts at 6 p.m. For reservations, please call 305-503-6529.

Super Bowl Sunday Pre-Game and Watch Party South Beach 2/2/14

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Super Bowl Sunday Pre-Game and Watch Party South Beach
Sunday, 02/02/2014 – 02:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Superbowl-2014-Flyer-WebX|O Lounge at Clinton Hotel South Beach
825 Washington Ave,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Eventbrite Link
Cost: $10 – $25

Join Megacity Events this Super Bowl Sunday on February 2nd 2014 for a Pre-Game and Watch Party at the X|O Lounge at Clinton Hotel South Beach located at 821-825 Washington Ave in Miami Beach, FL.

Watch the Seattle Seahawks battle it out with the Denver Broncos throughout various flat screen TV’s plus on the BIG SCREEN out by the pool deck/patio.

Specials 2-6 pm:

$5 Domestic Beers
$8 Drinks (Well)
$20 Domestic Beer Buckets ($25 Imported)
$150 Bottles

Music by DJ Tinello

Order tickets or book a table via Eventbrite:
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/super-bowl-sunday-pre-game-watch-party-tickets-10427070649?aff=efbevent

Enter Promo Code “SoulOfMiami” for 10% Off Tickets!

For questions call or text 786 277 3703.

Carlos Miranda / Seasalt And Pepper

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Seasalt and Pepper is the hot new Mediterranean seafood restaurant garnering buzz around Miami for its delicious cuisine and star clientele. Chat Chow TV sat down with co-owner Carlos Miranda to learn more about the inspiration for the space and its unique vibe.

The restaurant is prominently located on the Miami River inside of Howard Hughes’ former seaplane hanger. Miranda explains that it’s actually two concepts in one with Seasalt Brasserie serving as the restaurant and soon-to-be opened Pepper that will house a bar, lounge and members club.

Throughout the elegant industrial space, patrons can not only soak up beautiful waterfront views but also admire unique pieces of art work made just for the restaurant. The show stopping installation hanging in the main dining room was created by Miami artist Carlos Bentacourt and features more than 1,000 items that can be found on the Miami River.

Seafood is the star of the menu, which was created by seasoned Executive Chef Alfredo Alvarez. Featuring seafood casseroles cooked in 900 degree wood-burning ovens, a fresh raw bar, homemade pastas and pizzas, the cuisine highlights flavors found throughout the Mediterranean.

Curious what Miranda’s favorite dish is? Or which celebrities have already been spotted at the restaurant? Find out those things and more in the video above.

Batch Gastropub Hosting the Big Game 2/2/14

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Batch Gastropub Hosting the Big Game
Sunday, 02/02/2014 – 04:00 pm –
batchphotoBatch Gastropub
30 SW 12th St,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost:

Don’t get caught behind enemy lines…..surround yourself with fellow fans supporting the same team this year. Batch Gastropub has set up its lighting so half the bar is illuminating Seahawks colors and other half Broncos colors. Catch the game on 15 tvs throughout the restaurant, keep an eye out for crossing the enemy lines. Tito’s infused “Fireball” shots will be offered for $7, along with other specialty house cocktails and 5 for $20 beer specials. The full Batch menu will be offered. For reservations call today, (305) 808-5555.

Valentines Breakfast with Animal Friends 2/15/14

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Valentines Breakfast with Animal Friends
Saturday, 02/15/2014 – 08:00 am – 10:00 am
meerkat%20webZoo Miami
12400 SW 152 Street,
Miami, Florida 33177
Webpage Link
Cost: Members: $30; non-members: $45; children under two: free

Prolong the Valentine’s Day celebration of friendship and love with your friends and family! Treat them to a delicious hot breakfast at Zoo Miami Children’s Zoo, surrounded by animals for a one of a kind dining experience. We do all the cooking, decorating and cleaning while you simply relax and enjoy this special day.

You and your loved ones will enjoy exciting animal encounters as our zookeepers stroll the area with an assortment of loveable critters. Additionally, we will show a little love to our meerkat family by providing them with treats and enrichment to make theirs and your day extra special. As a grand finale, we will put on a special show about animal “valentines” in our Children’s Zoo Amphitheater.

We aren’t done yet, though, after breakfast you can ride a live camel or take a ride on our Endangered Animal Carousel (not live animals), or do both. Then enjoy the rest of your day throughout the Zoo visiting all the animals as part of your holiday celebration. Don’t forget to bring your cameras for this Valentine’s special adventure.

Registration Information

Space is limited so don’t wait until the last minute, make your reservations early to ensure you all have seats at the best breakfast in town!

Same day entry to the zoo is included in the price.

Registrations are required (due by February 7). A confirmation letter will be sent by email or fax when processing is completed. Please allow a minimum of 2-3 business days for processing. To download registration, go to www.zoomiami.org.

Members: $30
Non-Members: $45
Children under 2: free

Completed Registration form must be submitted with payment by fax, mail or email. Make checks payable to Zoological Society of FL (or ZSF).

Mail: Education Department
Zoological Society of Florida
12400 SW 152 ST
Miami, FL 33177
Fax: 305-255-7126
Email: education@zsf.org

For more information call the Education Dept. at 305-255-5551. Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Univision’s Chef Maggie Jiménez 2/1/14

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Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Univision’s Chef Maggie Jiménez
Saturday, 02/01/2014 – 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm
Chef-Maggie-JimenezWinn-Dixie Store #254
11241 SW 40th St.,
Miami, Florida 33165
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie invites South Florida shoppers to join us for an afternoon of family, food and fun to kick-off this year’s Calle Ocho festival with mini celebrations throughout February at select Miami stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by Univision’s Celebrity Chef Maggie Jiménez. Known for her simple and delicious recipes that make it so easy to learn, Jiménez will prepare easy Kraft Food recipes such as Mesquite Chicken Breasts with Lime-Avocado Salsa, JELL-O Fruit and Cookie Dream and Tanguila Sunrise.

In addition to the cooking demonstrations, event attendees will also enjoy a variety of food sampling stations, Coca-Cola sampling, giveaways and more, plus a special visit by Miss Carnaval.

Get Serenaded at Spartico 2/14/14

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Get Serenaded at Spartico
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 05:00 pm –
Spartico
3000 Florida Ave,
Coconut Grove, Florida 33133
Webpage Link
Cost: $35.00 per person

On Valentine’s Day, sweep your sweetheart off her feet with an evening of romance at Spartico in The Mayfair Hotel & Spa. Couples can fall deeper in love as they get serenaded by Rat-Pack inspired singer, Louis Amanti. After dinner, lovers can remember the romance and steal a kiss on the intimate, dimly lit rooftop or walk through the Zen-inspired Asian garden.

Epicurean lovers will be welcomed with a starter baked from a Milan imported wood-burning oven, followed by a 3-course menu created by Executive Chef, Dario Correa. Guests will start with either a poached Lobster tail medallion salad, or a creamy risotto infused with sweet and savory blackberries. Entrée options include a Duck prepared 3 different ways or a honey and pistachio crusted Filet Mignon served over a bed of rose petals. All loved ones will finish their dinner with a decadent dessert trio inspired by Italy. For a hint of seduction, valentines can pair their dinner with a bottle of the house wine, Spartico.

On February 14, 2014 the seating will begin at 5:00 p.m. The price-fixe menu is $35.00 per person without gratuity or tax. Call 305-441-0000 for reservations or visit www.MayfairHotelandSpa.com for more information.

Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Chef Pepin 2/8/14

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Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Chef Pepin
Saturday, 02/08/2014 – 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm
MG_4492FINAL-3Winn-Dixie Store #366
3701 N.W. Seventh St.,
Miami, Florida 33126
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie invites South Florida shoppers to join us for an afternoon of family, food and fun to kick-off this year’s Calle Ocho festival with mini celebrations throughout February at select Miami stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by local celebrity Chef Pepin. Known for his spontaneous and whimsical approach to cooking, Chef Pepin will prepare easy Kraft Food recipes such as Mesquite Chicken Breasts with Lime-Avocado Salsa, JELL-O Fruit and Cookie Dream and Tanguila Sunrise.

In addition to the cooking demonstrations, event attendees will also enjoy a variety of food sampling stations, Coca-Cola sampling, giveaways and more.

Miami Lighthouse 7th Annual Music Under the Stars: Bon Appétit Miami 4/30/14

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Miami Lighthouse 7th Annual Music Under the Stars: Bon Appétit Miami
Wednesday, 04/30/2014 – 06:30 pm – 09:30 pm
Save-the-DateMiami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
601 SW 8th Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link
Cost: $80 per person, $150 per couple

Support 20/20 vision and celebrate free eye care for children on Wednesday, April 30th at the Seventh Annual Music Under the Stars: Bon Appétit Miami at Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. With musical performances by the Miami Lighthouse Better Chance Music Production Program™ musicians and special guests, a fabulous silent auction, food and beverages from many great Miami restaurants, Music Under the Stars has become a much-anticipated highlight of the South Florida philanthropic season and is one not to miss! The Florida Heiken Children’s Vision Program, a division of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, has provided 75,000 children from low-income families with eye examinations and prescription glasses when needed since its inception in 1992. Donation for single tickets is $80, $150 per couple.

For more information, contact Cameron Sisser at 786-362-7515 or csisser@miamilighthouse.org

Kitchen 305’s Bollywood Bash 1/17/14

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Kitchen 305’s Bollywood Bash
Friday, 01/17/2014 – 10:00 pm –
Screen-Shot-2014-01-17-at-5.07.17-PMKitchen 305
16701 Collins Avenue,
Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160
Webpage Link
Cost:

No need for a magic carpet ride, Kitchen 305 will be transformed into the
Taj Mahal with its Bollywood Bash.

Hosted by E Hollywood Productions, guests will be immersed in an evening of Indian culture with exotic belly dancers hip shaking to live drummers and fire breathers heating up the night. Enjoy free henna tattoos, a soundtrack provided by ACE DJ and an atmosphere filled with Indian art and design.

ARC Broward’s Delish 2014 – Fire and Ice Presented by The Wasie Foundation 3/7/14

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ARC Broward’s “Delish 2014 – FIRE & ICE” Presented by The Wasie Foundation
Friday, 03/07/2014 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach
505 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd,
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304
Webpage Link
Cost: $125 per person

ARC Broward, a not-for-profit human services organization dedicated to providing services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, hosts its third annual superb fundraising event—Delish 2014, presented by The Wasie Foundation. The event will be held on Friday, March 7, 2014 from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. at Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. Nationally renowned celebrity chef, Michelle Bernstein, returns as honorary chair of this year’s event which celebrates the success of the ARC Broward Culinary Institute.

This is the second year that Chef Bernstein will be judging the event’s cooking stations which showcase the culinary creations of ARC Broward’s graduates. This year’s Delish theme, “Fire & Ice,” will feature a faceoff between two of nature’s strongest elements and allow battling chefs to experiment with different techniques to make the perfect hot and cold culinary experiences. All proceeds from the event will support critically-needed services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and those with various other life challenges.

Guests will enjoy an evening of gourmet treats, refreshing cocktails, dancing, live entertainment, a silent auction, amazing Fort Lauderdale Beach views and much more.

Les Dames D’escoffier Miami present the Fifth Annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale 1/25/14

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Les Dames D’escoffier Miami present the Fifth Annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale
image001Saturday, January 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Galleria of the Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Ave
Coral Gables, FL 33134

free and open to the public
www.lesdamesmiami.org

Les Dames D’Escoffier Miami (LDEM) will present their annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale.  LDEM is  a non-profit organization comprised of female culinary, wine, hospitality and farming professionals dedicated to funding scholarships for young South Florida women, supporting regional agriculture and funding organic school vegetable gardens, nutrition and cooking educational programs for area youth and South Florida’s farm labor force
 
The Giant Gourmet Garage Sale, presented and staffed  by LDEM members,  is a wonderful place to stock up on all things culinary –  flatware, cookbooks, Tupperware, art, linens, napkins, pots & pans, candles, ceramics, bakeware, stemware, small appliances and much more.   Additionally, the Dames Marketplace will feature locally grown fruit and vegetables, potted herbs, vegetable starts, prepared foods and baked goods – all homemade and homegrown by the Chapter’s talented chef, caterer and farmer members.
 
Proceeds from sales will help underwrite Les Dames projects.

Photos of Talavera by Mr Q 305

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If you are looking for real authentic Mexican food made from the freshest ingredients then Talavera Cocina Mexicana is the place for you.
Located in the corner of Ponce de Leon Blvd. and Giralda Avenue, a visit to Talavera will take you on a culinary trip of the best that Aztec cuisine has to offer. As soon as you are in the proximity of the restaurant the distinctive and unique sound of Mariachis will get you in just the right mood; add to that one of their signature Margaritas and you’ll be on your way to taste bud heaven, all the while singing along: Allá en el Rancho Grande!
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit Talavera during Giralda Under The Stars, the event produced by the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables and sponsored by Zacapa Rum. Giralda Under The Stars takes place on the first Friday of every month from November to April, all the restaurants on Giralda Avenue bring their tables outside for a true and unique alfresco dining experience.
If you haven’t been to Talavera, put it in your “must do” list. It is true Mexican cuisine at its best!
MrQ305 on fb       Twitter

Taste of the Garden 1/30/14

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Taste of the Garden
Thursday, 01/30/2014 – 06:30 pm – 09:30 pm
TOTG2013Miami Beach Botanical Garden
2000 Convention Center Drive,
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $85

One of South Florida’s most exciting culinary experiences returns to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden as 20 premier chefs and mixologists create a magical outdoor dining experience. Enjoy live entertainment and place your bids in the silent auction for hotel stays, exquisite jewelry and restaurant certificates. All while sampling dinners, desserts and drinks crafted by both established and up-and-coming restaurants and fine dining purveyors. This is an exclusive event with a limit of 350 guests. All proceeds benefit the Garden and environmental education programming. Tickets are $85 before January 25, $100 after.

Delray GreenMarket 1/4/14

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Delray GreenMarket
Saturday, 01/04/2014 – 05/10/2014 09:00 am – 02:00 pm
glL-RqoqqnN7XLryFRH0Z53U4fUqyv8l1TIehWR36I4Old School Square Park
25 NE 2nd Avenue,
Delray Beach, Florida 33444
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Started in 1996 by the Community Redevelopment Agency, The GreenMarket has become one of the most popular and charming aspects of “the season” in beautiful downtown Delray Beach, Florida.

The GreenMarket is a Saturday morning destination as an open air marketplace offering fresh local produce including organic, citrus and herbs, Animal Welfare Approved and heritage breed, hen, duck and Japanese quail eggs from Heritage Hen Farms, raw milk, fresh butter and yogurt, locally produced cheeses, artesian breads and baked goods including gluten and sugar free, Fla. grass fed-beef and poultry (hormone and antibiotic free), raw honey, exotic loose teas and spices, seafood so fresh its still wet, cut flowers and blooming plants, 18 yr. old balsamic vinegars and Kosher olive oils, pasta, fresh juice and coffee, handmade soaps and herbal tincutures, organic pet treats and other unique gourmet fare, as well as live music, a playground for the kids, special events and plenty of free parking in the City parking garage next door. Come for breakfast or stay for lunch!

Slow Food Miami Snail Social at Oak Tavern 1/7/14

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Slow Food Miami Snail Social at Oak Tavern
Thursday, 01/07/2014 – 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Oak Tavern
35 NE 40th Street,
Miami , Florida 33137
Webpage Link
Cost: FREE

Miami, FL (December 17, 2013)—Slow Food Miami, the local, 100% volunteer non-profit dedicated to planting a fresher future for our children, will kick-off the new year with a “Snail Social” event on Tuesday, January 7th from 6-8 p.m. at Oak Tavern in the Design District in Miami. All are welcome to join Snail of Approval winner, Chef David Bracha, along with other celebrated chefs, farm-to-table supporters and Slow Food Miami board members for a casual, social outing in support of local food culture and Slow Food Miami. As in previous Snail Socials, guests will enjoy special Happy Hour prices on signature bites and cocktails to celebrate the season’s harvest. The convivial atmosphere of Oak Tavern’s open plan bar & lounge is the perfect setting for the festive event series to usher in the New Year, allowing guests to freely mingle and enjoy the farm fresh delights of Bracha’s modern American menu and cocktails. During the evening, guests can also enjoy the outdoor patio bearing the restaurant’s eponymous giant oak tree or stay for dinner in its 5,500 square foot rustically modern dining room. This event is free and open to the public.

Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild 1/12/14

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Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild
Sunday, 01/12/2014 – 03:00 pm –
Afternoon-Tea-GuestFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $27 for members, $37 for non-members, $17 for children 12 and under

Create a special memory at Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, held on the veranda and in the ballroom of the Visitor Center overlooking the tropical garden. Sweet and savory snacks will be served on fine china with an assortment of tea. Live music by local guitarist Rob Friedman will create an ambiance of relaxation. Please RSVP with Marnie Valent at (305)-663-8059.

Giralda Under The Stars 1/3/14

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Giralda Under The Stars
Friday, 01/03/2014 – 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables FL, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

On Friday, January 3rd, Downtown Coral Gables’ Restaurant Row (located on the 100 block of Giralda Ave between Ponce de Leon Blvd and Galiano Street) will be bustling with al fresco dining and live entertainment from 7pm to midnight as part of Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum.

Jeffrey Wolfe / Wolfe’s Wine Shoppe

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Wolfe’s Wine Shoppe, located in the heart of Coral Gables on Miracle Mile, has made a name for itself by carrying hard-to-find, hand selected wines chosen by owner Jeffery Wolfe. Chat Chow TV sat down with Wolfe to find out more about the store, its selections and the great promotions the store offers locals.

When people arrive at Wolfe’s Wine Shoppe, the first conversation they have with Wolfe is paramount. Since the store only carries small batch wines that you can’t find everywhere, Wolfe makes it a point to find out what the customer likes so he can guide them in the right direction for their purchase.

“There aren’t any rules in wine,” Wolfe states. “Whatever you like, whatever you’re enjoying, if you want to have it something and you think it works – then it works.”

The store hosts plenty of events and in-store promotions throughout the year for its loyal customers. Every Friday the store hosts a wine tasting, it sends out weekly emails to its ‘Wolfpacker List’ filled with specials and deals, it participates in cross promotions with local restaurants, and it even hosts an annual Christmas party for its guests.

For the holidays, the store makes it easy for patrons to shop at any budget. The Wolfe’s Wine Shoppe releases its annual “Top 10’ list filled with its favorite wines of the year. The store also offers customizable gift boxes, gift wrapping and case deals for everyone on your Christmas list.

Wonder why they call their email list the ‘Wet Noses Group’? Or what Wolfe recommends to buy for your boss or someone you’re trying to impress? Find out all of that and more in the video above.

Eats & Beats Grub & Jam during Food & Wine week Miami 2/22/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
Soul Of Miami Special – Save $20!

Eats & Beats – Grub & Jam during Food & Wine week Miami!
February 22nd, 2014, 7:30pm – 12:00am
eatsSOM Moore Building
4040 NE Second Ave.
Design District Miami, FL 33137.
Facebook
Website
Buy Tickets Online
Soul Of Miami Special – Use code “Lifeisart” and save $20!

Eats and Beats will be a culmination of the best culinary experiences in South Florida combined with the best and brightest talents in the Miami music scene. Taking place during the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Eats & Beats is cementing its message that it is for locals by locals.

Eats N Beats proudly announces that the initial wave of restaurant partners to include Red Steakhouse, Meat Market, Steve Haas’s City Hall Restaurant, Nikki Beach, Bongos Cuban Café, Larios on the Beach, Pride & Joy BBQ, Brother Jimmy’s BBQ, Alma Mexicana, The Passion Group-(Dolores, but you can Call me Lolita, Crazy About You, and Love is Blind), Celebrity Chef Ralph Pagano’s Unnamed Mexican Restaurant, Juana M Brickell, and Epicure Gourmet Market & Café. Eats N Beats will also feature a dessert lounge which will feature Ana Paz Cakes, Sweet Treats by Marta, and Cacao Art Chocolate.

The producers of Eats N Beats realize that any good gathering over food needs to be accompanied with cocktails. The initial announcement of spirit and beverage partners will include Jack Daniels Honey, Chambord, Chambord Vodka, Doble Tequila, Solo Contigo Wines, Lucky Player Vodka, 1492 Rum, LIQS Cocktail Shots, Acqua Panna water and Hierbas Ibicencas. More restaurants and spirits partners and the initial announcements of musical bands and DJ’s will be unveiled in the coming week.

Eats & Beats is the answer to those looking for an amazing food and wine event without the red velvet stanchion presence that one now expects at food events. The goal was to create an event that will not only satisfy the palate but also stimulate all of the senses. Comprised of a unique team of local hospitality and event consultants, the team behind this new Miami addition all bring unique elements to the equation ultimately, making the experience unique and of value to attendees coming out with “foodie” expectations. None other than Miami’s own DJ Irie will put together the musical elements which will include local DJ’s and bands adding a perfect ambiance to this fabulous affair.

Imagine a perfect showcase of local culinary artistry paired with premium wines and spirits, minus the velvet rope. Comprised of some of the most renowned restaurants in South Florida, to some of the most mouthwatering dessert artists, Eats N Beats will satisfy the local food enthusiast as well as the sophisticated “foodie” expecting to delight in some of the best dishes and libations our city has to offer. Not to worry, keeping true to our City known for beauty and some flash, the event will touch on all of the senses. Complete with dynamic production, local VIPS and Celebs Eats N Beats will also be outfitted with the comforts one has come to expect from an event in Miami. The showcase will attract those looking for an alternative type of food event, one that brings the best of three worlds: food, music and wines/spirits together seamlessly.

This new addition to the culinary scene in Miami will pair an array of our most frequented and popular eateries with local music, by some of the most celebrated talent to hit our local stages. As opposed to creating separate events, this inaugural fete was designed to create a progressive experience for attendees.

Guests will enjoy four floors of palate-pleasing food, sweets and delicious cocktails while dancing to the beats of live music curated by DJ Irie. The world renowned DJ has hand selected an impressive and diverse ensemble of bands and DJ’s while slated to hit the booth for a DJ spot himself. Eats N Beats will benefit the Irie Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization based in South Florida with a mission to aid youth and improve graduation rate. This new event is a very personal invitation for locals by locals to come out, ready to eat and ready to dance, as Eats N Beats will hit the pulse of Miamians and visiting guests with only our best, -Miami’s best.

Creativas Group Inc. provides public relations and marketing counsel to South Florida-based businesses, nationally recognized special events and leading non-profit organizations. For more information, please log onto www.creativasgroup.com or email info@creativasgroup.com. Photographs and interviews are available by request.

Julian Baker / Toscana Divino

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Located in the middle square of Mary Brickell Village, Toscana Divino unites all things Tuscan. The gorgeous restaurant features classic dishes found throughout Tuscany along with seasonal ingredients and items directly imported from the region. Chat Chow TV sat down with Executive Chef Julian Baker to learn more about the menu and the restaurant’s unique Italian heritage.

Toscana Divino was built from the ground up in partnership with the Italian consortium of leading Italian businesses of Wine and Fashion in Florence. Because of this partnership, the restaurant showcases Italian producers throughout the space with the art work, leather handbags, olive oils, wines and even their glassware, all coming from Tuscan purveyors.

Baker tells Chat Chow TV that he worked in Italy by chance and while being there really began to enjoy what Italy and its cuisine had to offer. Those classic Tuscan dishes and techniques can be found throughout the menu in items like the Ribollita, a twice cooked Tuscan vegetable soup, the ‘Fiorentina’ steak cooked standing on the grill, and the house made pastas and decadent desserts.

Toscana Divino offers guests an array of special events and discounts, in addition to its popular daily happy hour, it hosts wine seminars once a month, a discounted ‘Dinner at Dusk’ menu, and a weekend brunch.

Curious about the restaurant’s decadent truffle offerings? Or its expansive wine list? Learn all of that and more in the video above.

Another Bad Creation The 90s Party 12/21/13

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Another Bad Creation The 90s Party
Saturday, 12/21/2013 – 10:00 pm – 04:00 am
abc-generic-COPYMoonchine Asian Bistro.Garden.Lounge
7100 Biscayne Boulevard,
Miami, Florida 33138
Eventbrite Link
Cost: $10.00 advance | $15.00 door

This is your chance to exercise your guilty, or guilt-free, pleasure! Dance to your favorite music and videos from the ’90s with the dopest DJ since Jazzy Jeff! Expect hits from some of the best including TLC, No Doubt, Bell Biv Devoe, Nirvana, Buju Banton, T-Vice, Proyecto Uno, 95 South, Boyz II Men, C&C Music Factory, EMF, Marky Mark, House of Pain, Arrested Development, El General, Coolio, Sweet Mickey, Spice Girls, Zin, Alanis Morissette, Shaggy, Alan Cave, The Breeders, 2 Unlimited, 69 Boyz, Supercat, Ilegales, Poison Clan, Uncle Luke, Kid n Play, Color Me Badd, KLF, Crystal Waters, Wreckx-N-Effect, Ace of Base and whole bunch of our favorite 90’s hits!

Enjoy 2-4-1 Stoli Vodka cocktails from 10:00pm – 11:00pm

ENTERTAINMENT

Sounds by South Florida Native, “Your Girlfriends Favorite Deejay”, DJ TARIQUE

ATTIRE

Dress Code: 1990s FASHION or CASUAL (Night Club Attire)

AGE RESTRICTION

This event is tailored for a mature audience (25 and over preferred) but those 21 and over welcome.

COST

COVER $10.00 Advance | $15.00 at the Door
be Advised: To preserve the quality of this event, a limited amount of tickets will be sold, so get your tickets now! For Info more call (786)519-3764

VENUE

Between the charming outdoor garden area, the newly opened Sweet Saloon Lounge, and the main restaurant which showcases a mid-century style dining area, MOONCHINE is a private ultra-swanky low-key spot for everyone to enjoy.

FOOD and DRINKS

MOONCHINE offers a beautiful blend of Asian cuisines that include Thai, Sushi and Vietnamese specialties! You can either dine inside of the restaurant or outside amongst the stars in the garden. If you plan on eating, the kitchen closes at 1:00am. Very reasonable drink prices will be available throughout the evening.

Photographs of the Pre-Party Kick-Off at the 4th Annual Miami Taste of Brickell Food & Wine Festival on 12/12/13

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Pre-party kick-off at Mary Brickell Village for The 4th Annual Miami Taste of Brickell Food & Wine Festival on Thursday, December 12, 2013.  Taste of Brickell Food & Wine Festival will be held on February 24, 2014 and will be held at the First Presbyterian Church overlooking Brickell Key – 600 Brickell Avenue.  Tickets are on sale now, click this link to order yours www.tasteofbrickll.com.

Taste of Brickell Food & Wine Festival Mission:  “The Taste of Brickell Food & Wine Festival is a community outreach event which provides a Signature festival for the community. Our goal is to create tourism and direct visitors to our fine restaurants and shops. We create an economic impact for the area, filling Hotels and attractions.”

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Highway to Hops with Miami Brew Bus

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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.

Photos of Giralda Under The Stars by Mr Q 305

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Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars.  Restaurant Row is closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

The featured restaurants on this shoot were: Talavera Cocina Mexicana, Spritz, Divino Ceviche and Spizzigo.

Zacapa Rum was serving the award-winning blend of their ultra-premium rums.

“This event allows Restaurant Row to shine, coming together to offer a wide array of food from all over the world with choices to satisfy any and all palates and budgets,” said Mari Gallet, Executive Director of the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables, which produces the event.

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Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance 2/20/14-2/23/14

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Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance
Thursday, 02/20/2014 – 02/23/2014 09:00 am – 02:00 am
miami-logo-final-4Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
4020 Virginia Beach Dr,
Miami, Florida 33149
Webpage Link
Facebook, Twitter & Instragram: @GrassRootsMiami.
Tickets are very moderately priced, with day passes ranging from $25-$40.
Adult 4-Day Tickets are $100 in advance, $120 at the gate.
Youth ages 13-15 are just $20 per day or $50 for 4-Days, with Kids 12 & under Free.
Tent Camping Passes are $25 per night or $50 for 4-Nights. Vehicle Camping Passes, which include a tent pass are $50 per night or $100 for 4 Nights. Any vehicle larger than 21ft and cars towing campers are considered RVs and priced at $150.
Volunteer opportunities are still available in trade for free tickets.

Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music, Art & Dance has unveiled this year’s line up! The GrassRoots Festival will be returning to Historic Virginia Key Beach Park in Miami, Florida, February 20th – 23rd, 2014. The festival will be celebrating its third anniversary with the most impressive and diverse lineup to date. The Festival will also feature a Sustainability Fair, Yoga, Tai Chi, Live Art, Music Workshops, Dance Workshops, and Children’s Activities .

4 days, 4 stages, and over 50 bands.

Onsite camping is available.
A limited number of tickets are available now for $90. See website for camping options.
Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival Artist Announcement:
ChocQuibTown
The Del McCoury Band
Oliver Mtukudzi & The Black Spirits
Sie7e
Donna The Buffalo
MC Yogi
John Brown’s Body
Monsieur Periné
Locos Por Juana
Suénalo
Keith Frank & The Soileau Zydeco Band
Spam Allstars
Toubab Krewe
…and many more!

Returning for its 3rd year, The Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival of Music, Art & Dance presents its most ambitious and diverse program lineup yet. The 4-Day Festival offers something completely different than any other festival or event in Florida. Highlights include performances from over 50 bands from across the globe, yoga & healing arts workshops, a huge Kids Village, live art & installations, music & dance workshops, camping on the beach, and much more. From February 20th through February 23rd the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park sets the stage for an interactive event filled with participatory experiences for all ages to enjoy.

An incredibly diverse and culturally rich musical lineup creates the Festival’s foundation. The programming includes Latin Grammy Award-winning Afro-Colombian group ChocQuibTown, Zimbabwe’s national treasure and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Oliver Mtukudzi & the Black Spirits, The most awarded Bluegrass legend of all time The Del McCoury Band, Latin Grammy Award-winning Best New Artist Sie7e, Trail-Blazing Americana mainstay Donna the Buffalo, current Reggae chart toppers John Brown’s Body, plus tons of hometown heavy-hitters like Spam All-Stars, Locos Por Juana, DJ Bill Kelly, Suenalo, and Elastic Bond. A full listing of bands ranging in genre from Cajun to Electronic, Roots Rock, Latin Pop, Country, Hip-Hop and beyond can be found at http://virginiakeygrassroots.com/music-art/performer-lineup

The Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival is full of activities for kids and families. The Kid’s Village offers free art projects, musical workshops, story time, kids’ yoga, a playground, games and all kinds of creative exploration all day long! Children ages 12 and under are admitted to the festival for free.

The event is in many ways a ‘lifestyle festival’ with a holistic approach to entertainment that engages all of the senses. In partnership with the Zen Village of Coconut Grove, the Festival’s Healing Arts Area offers daily workshops in various lineages of Yoga, meditation, Tai Chi, traditional dance, healing drumming, and more wellness practices. Practitioners of various healing modalities such as massage, Reiki, reflexology, and more offer their services throughout the day in a lovely shaded grove along the water.

Festival-goers have the opportunity to engage with legendary musicians and instructors at numerous Music and Dance Workshops. Musical workshop highlights include; World Drumming, Banjo & Fiddle, and Native Flute. Dance workshops for all levels take place prior to performances in the 10,000 square foot wood floored Dance Tent, including Bachata, Salsa, and Zydeco instruction. At Miami’s Scratch DJ Academy Booth, participants of all ages can try their hand at DJ-ing with instruction from world-renowned DJs and teachers.

Environmental sustainability and ecological preservation are at the heart of the event. The Sustainability Fair & Expo is an interactive model of engagement between South Florida businesses and festival attendees. Over the course of the weekend Green Businesses, featuring sustainable services and products work alongside non-profits to promote a sustainable future for Miami. There will be solar demos, bio-diesel education, urban farming workshops, and more. The Festival also has a mission of creating Zero Waste, with recycling and compost stations setup throughout the event. Biking to the festival is encouraged! Half-priced Sunday tickets are available for all who arrive by bicycle and numerous bike-centric activities are offered throughout the weekend.

The GrassRoots organization is deeply committed to building relationships in the community. The cornerstone of these local partnerships is the Roots in the Schools collaborative outreach program. In the week leading up to the event, The Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival brings musicians into local schools for musical performances, classroom presentations, workshops, hands on experience and cultural enrichment. The program’s goal is to promote the creative health of young people, foster arts appreciation, and provide an opportunity for them to connect with the inspiring world of music. Please take a minute to view a short highlight video from last year’s program offerings; http://youtu.be/8eTbyKStR_0

Held on the pristine sands of the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, camping is available on the main festival grounds, just steps from the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. Virginia Key is a short ride from downtown Miami, but is quiet and secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, creating the perfect setting for this one-of-a-kind festival. Tent camping and Vehicle Camping are available. Campers can come stay for single nights or all 4 nights of the festival.

Grove Green Market 12/5/13

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Grove Green Market
Thursday, 12/05/2013 – 02:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Grove Green Market Poster.inddCoconut Grove Playhouse Parking Lot
3496 Main Highway,
Miami, Florida 33133
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

The new Grove Green Market Opens on Thursday, December 5th from 2:00pm to 8:00pm at the Coconut Grove Playhouse parking lot. It continues every Thursday supplying locally grown fresh produce from South Florida farmers. The Grove Green Market supports healthy living and encourages sustainable growing practices by bringing local farmers to Coconut Grove. All participating farmers and vendors are located within just 40 miles of the District. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, the market will also feature vendors selling local honey, jams, olive oils, artisan breads, grass-fed beef, seafood, spices, and juices.

There will be about 40 vendors in all, including Seasons Farm Fresh, Coconut Grove Farms, Urban Greenworks, Green Garden Organics, Michael Borek Farms, Hani’s Mediterranean Organics, Freakin Flamingo Jams, Siggi’s Organic Farm and Apiary, and Three Sisters Farm. The new market strives to be accessible to all by offering free parking provided by Double Park and free bike valet sponsored by Bike Coconut Grove and Shell Lumber. Market shoppers will also be able to enjoy The Barnacle Historic State Park’s extended operating hours to picnic on the lawn until 8:00pm. Come out to the Grove Green Market every Thursday to buy fresh and shop local!