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Candy cane

1. Finlandia Candy Cane
In a shaker with ice, add 1-1/2 ounces Finlandia vodka, 1/2 ounce Triple Sec, and 3 ounces cranberry juice. Coat the rim of a martini glass with red and white sugar.* Pour into a cocktail glass and garnish with a candy cane.

*Red and white sugar is available in most bakery aisles; or substitute red sugar sprinkles.

2. Grey Goose Le Melon Mule
Add 1-1/2 ounces Grey Goose Le Melon vodka to a copper mug and squeeze in the juice of 3 lime wedges. Fill with ice. Top with 3 ounces ginger beer.

3. Chambord French Kiss
In a shaker with ice, combine 1 ounce Chambord black raspberry liqueur, 3/4 ounce white chocolate liqueur, and 3/4 ounce heavy cream. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a chocolate kiss or chocolate shavings.

4. Grey Goose Dry Martini
In a shaker with ice, add 2 ounces Grey Goose vodka, 1/2 ounce Noilly Prat Original French dry vermouth, and 1 dash orange bitters. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with lemon zest or an olive.

5. Finlandia Snowstorm Collins
In a shaker with ice, add 1-1/2 ounces Finlandia Blackcurrant vodka, 1/3 ounce simple syrup, 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice, 1-1/2 ounces apple juice, a splash of soda water, and 1 egg white (optional). Shake, then pour into a Collins glass and garnish with a cherry, an apple slice, and a lemon peel.

6. Korbel Cran-Rita
In a shaker filled with ice, add 1/2 ounce El Jimador Blanco tequila, 1/2 ounce Cointreau, 1/2 ounce Finest Call simple syrup, and 1 ounce lime juice. Shake well and strain into a pint glass filled with ice. Float 1 mini bottle (187 millileters or about 6 ounces) Korbel Brut Champagne on top. Add a splash of cranberry juice. Garnish with cranberries and a lime wedge.

The Setai Courtyard

The Setai Miami Beach {2001 Collins Avenue; 305.520.6000}, one of SoBe’s most chic and elegant hotels, is hosting an evening of “sophistication and folly” for New Year’s Eve with the theme “La Belle Époque.”

Start your evening off at JAYA, the hotel’s brand-new Asian-inspired restaurant, with a five-course gala dinner featuring a “St. Sylvestre” menu that includes Foie Gras, Eggs 62, Scallops Melba, Short Ribs Bordelaise, and a Chocolate Variation. Dinner starts at 7pm and is priced at $555.

Or, begin the night at the Setai Grill’s Seafood Lounge to enjoy a decadent selection of oysters, stone crab claws, king crab legs, Key West pink shrimp, ceviche, Spanish octopus, and more. Service begins at 7pm and is priced at $425.

Both experiences include cocktails in the Setai Courtyard upon arrival, Louis Roederer Champagne Hour from 11:30pm-12:30am with New Year’s countdown, and access to the Setai Club, the hotel’s speakeasy venue with bar and DJ until 4am.

For reservations, call 855.923.7899.

—Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor 

Segafredo Bayside

If you haven’t been to Bayside Marketplace in a few years, then you probably still think that it’s an outdated shopping strip and tourist trap with the aim of luring in cruise passengers who just don’t know any better. But this is FAR from the truth.

These days, the Downtown marketplace has undergone some major upgrades (and expecting many more in the upcoming years), creating a homey waterfront setting that caters to both locals and visitors alike. Knowing this, the team behind Segafredo Espresso L’Originale on Lincoln Road decided that Bayside would be its next location.

On Wednesday, December 16, Segafredo Bayside {401 Biscayne Boulevard, Downtown; 786.420.2496} hosted its official grand opening, welcoming over 100 guests and live music by Spam All Stars. The celebration kicked off with a proclamation from Alyce Robertson, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, declaring that December 16 would officially be Segafredo Day. Pamela Weller, senior general manager of Bayside Marketplace, joined co-owners Luca Voltarel and Graziano Sbroggio for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

segafredo bayside

The state-of-the-art 580-square-foot kiosk with a full self-contained kitchen and an expansive bar is situated in the center of the marketplace, with a 2,500-square-foot outdoor space that overlooks the marina. The design features the two large “S” in the logo’s style and Segafredo’s signature color red throughout.

This is definitely our new favorite place to sit outside, sip a cocktail, nosh on some fresh, Italian fare, and watch the world go by.

—Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor 

river oyster bar

When Chef David Bracha opened The River Seafood & Oyster Bar {650 South Miami Avenue; 305.530.1915} in 2003, the landscape of Brickell was very different from what it is today. Long before there were towering high-rises—or the framework of soon-to-be high-rises— on every corner, there were a few humble neighborhood spots where locals would come to unwind after a long day’s work or to enjoy a standout meal. And even with the constant influx of development the area has experienced in recent years (including the forthcoming Brickell City Centre, whose towers forced The River’s 100-year-old neighbor, Tobacco Road, to close), The River has endured, proving that despite progress, not everything good turns to dust.

raw bar

The raw bar

Maintaining operations as usual in the midst of a construction zone is no easy feat; as such, The River saw the perfect opportunity to do some renovations of its own. The bar area has been expanded, making it easier to find a seat during the restaurant’s bustling happy hour (every day from 4:30-7pm). It also features a new oyster-shucking station, where guests can watch as chefs shuck and prepare fresh oysters from the daily selection of up to 10 different types from around the country. A new communal table further encourages guests to mingle and interact, and the private dining area has been newly appointed with an expansive leather banquette and state-of-the-art audio and video capabilities, perfect for business lunches or special events.

cioppino

Cioppino

Despite its recent face-lift, all the elements that have made The River a local favorite for the last 13 years remain: You can still expect the same laid-back atmosphere; the happy hour is still one of the most lively in town (offering some of the best happy hour deals, we might add); and the best and freshest catches from around the world are still delivered daily. Today, The River stands strong as a testament to what its regulars have always known. The combination of great seafood with an unpretentious and cozy neighborhood vibe is hard to find in the new Miami—but The River is here for the long haul.

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Now in its second year, Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive; 305.440.4200} has many great things to celebrate. These days, the chic seafood brasserie—which debuted during Art Basel in 2013—is packed, especially on Sundays when it’s known as the ultimate daytime party in Miami. A second phase of the waterfront complex, called Modern Garden {422 Northwest North River Drive; 305.440.4200}, opened last April with a tapas-style food concept and an intimate, organic setting. Owners Carlos and Maryam Miranda are now gearing up for two more additions: a lounge on the dock with a tequila bar, as well as an exclusive, members-only club to be situated upstairs in the former corporate offices.

While there was a swirl of what could be perceived as controversy—including their name change from Seasalt and Pepper to Seaspice—the owners seem to have effortlessly turned these challenges in a positive direction by expanding their menu and focusing on creative collaboration. In fact, the cuisine has evolved from strictly Mediterranean to global in scope.

“The name change keeps our concept more flexible,” Maryam says. “It allows us to take a global approach with the cuisine.” The Mirandas have traveled the world, and have made a point to taste the local cuisine wherever they go. “With this new concept, we get to explore the Mediterranean, Asia, Latin and South America—even Afghanistan. We base our food on classic dishes, then elevate them with our own style and techniques,” Maryam says.

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Take, for example, the Seaspice version of a potato gratin, made with yuca—a popular ingredient in traditional Latin cooking. “European gratin can be traced back hundreds of years,” Maryam explains, “but here at Seaspice, we prepare it with ingredients local to Latin America and Miami.

Another example is the Aushak Dumplings, a dish inspired by the cuisine of Afghanistan. The handmade dumplings are light and savory, filled with leeks and flowering chives, and topped with feta yogurt sauce and ground lamb.

One can journey the globe with these plates, which is exactly what the owners wanted to achieve. “We’ve learned so much from eating our way around the world,” Maryam says. “We are always collaborating with our chefs with the hopes of bringing an international dining experience to our guests.” Case in point? The owners and chefs are currently perfecting a secret recipe for french fries, based on a dish discovered at a falafel stand in Hong Kong. “You never know where you’ll find inspiration,” Maryam says.

Collaboration is key at Seaspice, where a culinary team takes the place of a single chef. Leading the brigade is Executive Chef Angel Leon, closely followed by Executive Sous Chef Brad Rubano. Ben Goldman is the chef de cuisine at Modern Garden and Jill Montinola is the pastry chef. “We have a young team, and there are no egos,” Maryam explains. “These people are passionate about what they do, and everyone wants to work together to create the most amazing things possible.”

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Indeed, the menu at Seaspice demonstrates this combination of talent and global inspiration—and, befitting its Miami location, many of the signature dishes center around seafood. Seaspice is locally renowned for its Seafood Casserole—a hot and savory platter of lobster, shrimp, mussels, squid, middleneck clams, saffron, and fresh catches from the Miami River. Other popular options include the Grilled Octopus, Maine Lobster Salad, and signature hot stones—seared filet mignon, rib-eye, lamb chops, and Wagyu beef served atop 850-degree volcanic stones.

Since seafood is the cornerstone of Seaspice’s menu, the owners make a point to source the freshest selection available from both near and far. Local catches might include grouper, yellowtail, and stone crabs, while fish like Dover sole and salmon is flown in fresh from Europe. Mussels arrive from Maine, oysters from the East and West Coasts. King Crab comes from Alaska, and bluefin tuna, Hokkaido scallops, and hamachi are flown in from Japan. “It’s more expensive to source globally, but worth every penny,” Leon says. “We are all about freshness and seeking out the finest ingredients.”

It’s true that paying a higher price for ingredients can affect the menu pricing, but the owners are committed to offering options at all price points—from affordable small plates to hearty entrées. “We have a reputation for being expensive, but it depends on what you order,” Maryam says. “You can order the most expensive dish on the menu, or choose from a variety of different authentic handmade Italian pastas, wood-fired pizzettas, salads, and exquisite fare from Modern Garden to pair with a glass of wine for a great price.” At Modern Garden, exotic and delicate foods are plated in a way that delivers a satisfying taste in smaller portions without emptying your wallet. What’s more, many of the dishes are designed to be shared with a group—and that’s all part of the fun.

While the food at every price is pristine, beautifully plated, and sensationally delicious, the ambience itself is an experience. With its thoughtfully chosen artwork and contemporary nautical-themed décor (including antique lighthouse lamps and seaworthy accents), Seaspice offers much more than just a meal. The stunning views of the Miami River and downtown present an added bonus—and many people find themselves sitting in the airy courtyard for hours on end, taking it all in.

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Credit that to the owners—longtime restaurateurs and design professionals who know how set the mood. Their first restaurant, Carlos and Charlie’s, opened in the Dominican Republic 25 years ago, centered around live entertainment. Later, they opened Ciudad de Las Artes (“city of the arts”) in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, in an 1800s-era building set up like a studio gallery. People would arrive, order a drink from the bar, and watch artists from all over the world at work.

“We always include the arts in everything we do,” Maryam says. “We believe that food is an art form, and that plating is about combining bright colors and flavors in a beautiful way.”

Music is also important at Seaspice, and contributes to the weekly celebrations that take over the weekends here. In fact, it was Carlos’ festive spirit that spurred “Sunday Funday” at the restaurant, when guests gather for a relaxed brunch, Champagne, and lively music. “Carlos knows how to connect with people and get them excited,” Maryam says. “Our guests are the VIPs of Miami, whether they are locals or visitors. And they all know Carlos. He’s the personality of Seaspice, no doubt about it.”

During these dynamic weekend events, people arrive before noon (reservations are a good idea) to indulge in an elegant à la carte brunch menu with decadent fare like Alaskan King Crab Florentine, Lobster Benedict, and caviar. With approachable prices and a welcoming vibe, people tend to bump into friends and shuffle their tables around, often sharing bottles of Champagne. As time goes on, yachts pull up to the dock and a DJ begins to spin in the main courtyard. The place becomes a party—a fabulous mix of young and young-at-heart. Inevitably, someone orders a bottle of Champagne, or maybe two, or three—and suddenly a bottle pops open to shower the courtyard crowd. “It’s a Miami thing,” Maryam says, smiling. The revelry winds down after sunset.

Of course, the rest of the week at Seaspice is buzzing and exciting, but has its quieter, romantic moments, too. During the week, the dining room is aglow with dancing candlelight, soft music, and a soothing serenity—completely the opposite of what happens here on Sundays—with the picturesque backdrop of city and sailboats on the horizon. “On any given day, there’s a lot to see here,” Maryam adds.

While Seaspice lends itself to a party, Modern Garden offers a more intimate space. Fresh orchids grow throughout, and a private terrace on the water is practically meditative. The signature design element is the wooden tree by architect Santiago Jose Palaez that canopies over the whole restaurant, cascading water-like droplets of light throughout the space.

Here, the menu features tempting tartares and delicate crudos seasoned with infused oils, sea salt, citrus, and fresh herbs. Whether seated at Seaspice or Modern Garden, guests may order from either menu—further expanding the dining options.

These days, a third chapter is in the works, with plans for a lounge on the dock with a tequila bar taking over the Seaspice deck facing the river. Plus, renovations will soon be underway for a high-end, members-only club upstairs—with VIP hospitality, a private entrance, and a vibe all its own. Both will open in 2016.

Looking back on all of the success Seaspice has achieved, Carlos believes that Miami needed a place like this—a sophisticated yet casual restaurant on the water, accessible by boat. This is the Miami lifestyle,” he says. The Mirandas looked for a long time until they found their restaurant space—a spot on the Miami River in an industrial area with a limited dining scene. Back then, he saw the potential … even though “people thought we were crazy.”

By Jacquelynn Powers Maurice | Contributor 

Fireworks New Year’s Eve is quickly approaching. Don’t miss out on scoring a table at one of the hottest restaurants in town, many of which will keep the party going well into 2016. Here’s where to spend New Year’s Eve in Miami.

A Fish Called Avalon {Avalon Hotel, 700 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.532.1727}
Celebrate with mojitos, live music, an elegant prix-fixe menu, and a prime view of the Miami Beach fireworks. Seating begins at 7pm. Cost: $275 per person; $138 per child.

Bagatelle {220 21st Street, Miami Beach; 305.704.3900}
The intimate French bistro is offering two dinner packages, along with bottle service. First seating (starting at 7pm) includes Dom Pérignon welcome toast and a savory three-course menu; the second seating (starting at 10pm) offers a Veuve Clicquot welcome toast and an expanded four-course meal. Cost: First seating, $150 per person; second seating, $425 per person.

The Biltmore {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3246}
The Biltmore’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala begins at 8:30pm and includes an exquisite dinner, premium open bar, and Champagne toast at midnight. The stage will be shared by the band Flavor and DJ Chris from Sarz Entertainment. At midnight, fireworks will light up the sky and confetti will fill the ballroom. Click here for tickets and more information. The Biltmore’s French restaurant Palme d’Or will also be open for New Year’s Eve, offering a seven-course tasting menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Gregory Pugin. Cost: $225 per person.

Cleo South Beach {Redbury Hotel, 1776 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.CLEO}
For its first New Year’s celebration, Cleo is offering a prix-fixe menu and specialty cocktails from Chef Danny Elmaleh with seatings at 6pm and 9pm. At 9pm, guests will have access to the rooftop where Cleo will be giving away party favors, offering cocktail specials, and toasting at midnight with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Cost: First seating, $125; second seating, $150.

db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown;
305.421.8800}
Enjoy an early three-course pre-fixe menu (reservations from 5:30-7pm) or a luxurious five-course gala dinner (reservations from 8:30-10:30pm) featuring Executive Chef Jason Pringle’s seasonal favorites and toast to 2016 with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Cost: Early dinner, $85 per person; gala dinner, $195 per person. The Lounge at db Bistro will be open (no cover!) from 5pm-3am with bottle service and cocktail menu available and a limited à la carte menu from 5:30pm-midnight.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}
Of course, everyone is talking about the Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s incredible poolscape New Year’s party featuring musical guests The Weeknd and KYGO. [Cost: Tickets start at $325 per person; click here for info.] But for those who want a more intimate celebration, head to one of the Fontainebleau’s signature restaurants for an exquisite meal:

StripSteak by Michael Mina is offering two seatings featuring four-course prix-fixe menus. Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8:30-10pm), $295 per person. 

The hotel’s modern Chinese restaurant Hakkasan will be offering a four-course prix-fixe menu that begins with family-style Dim Sum Platter. Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8-10pm), $295 per person. 

Chef Scott Conant’s AAA Four Diamond award-winning Scarpetta will be offering a delectable four-course prix-fixe menus Vegetarian menu available. Cost: First seating (6-7:30pm), $195 per person; second seating (8:30-10pm), $295 per person.

The chic yet laid-back contemporary American bistro Michael Mina 74 will be serving a limited football menu from 11am-4pm and offering a three-course prix-fixe menu from 6-11pm. Cost: $150 per person.

JW Marriott Miami {1109 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.329.3500}
Celebrate the New Year at Isabela’s at the JW Marriott Miami from 7:30pm-1am and indulge in a sumptuous buffet accompanied by live entertainment by Christabel Bertrand and Maya-Mi Sound Band. Cost: $150 per person; $60 per child (ages 5-12).

Katsuya {SLS Hotel South Beach, 1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.455.2995}
Katsuya will offer two seatings featuring prix-fixe menus. Cost: First seating (starting at 5pm), $145 per person; second seating (starting at 8pm), $245 per person.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288}
Join Mandarin Oriental’s Peruvian restaurant La Mar by Gastón Acurio for a three-course menu. Click here for more information and full menu. Cost: $150 per person, includes Chicha Morada Champagne cocktail. Mandarin is also hosting a party at its sleek MO Bar + Lounge from 9pm-1am. Cost: $75 per person, includes two glasses of Champagne; $250 per couple, includes VIP table seating with a lavish seafood platter of fresh king crab, Maine lobster, stone crabs, and more, plus a bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne.

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200}
Ring in the New Year along the Miami River at Seaspice, which is offering three separate packages from which to choose. Option 1: A four-course menu in the main dining room ($500 per person) that includes a bottle of Verve Clicquot per couple. Option 2: A four-course menu at Modern Garden on the patio ($750 per person) that includes a bottle of Dom Pérignon per couple. Option 3: A four-course menu on the outdoor mezzanine (1,000 per person) that includes a bottle of Dom Pérignon per couple.

Segafredo Espresso L’Originale {1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.673.0047}
Segafredo on Lincoln Road will be hosting its signature European New Year’s Eve from 5-8pm (midnight in Europe) with complimentary prosecco toasts while showing fireworks from Europe on its big screens. The restaurant will also have live DJs playing throughout the afternoon and evening.

Uvaggio Wine Bar {70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.448.2400}
Starting at 7pm, Uvaggio invites gourmands and wine lovers to a five-course meal prepared by Chef Tanner Gil paired with wines from Foxen Winery poured by founder Dick Doré and his wife Jenny. Cost: $150 per person; click here to purchase.

Villa Azur {309 23rd Street, Miami Beach; 305.763.8688}
While dressed in your finest Old Hollywood glamour, enjoy a four-course menu and a bottle of Champagne for two, (Dom Pérignon Rosé, Dom Pérignon, or Krug). An after-dinner party and live show will keep you dancing until dawn. Cost: Packages start at $500 per person.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

In Miami, it’s not just Chinese restaurants that are open on Christmas. The following dining establishments are not only open, but are offering delicious special holiday menus. Happy Holidays!

Atrio

Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room {Conrad Miami, 1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6528}
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Staring at 6pm, relish in a special prix-fixe menu featuring your choice of Appetizers (Clam, Lobster, and Corn Chowder or Duck Confit Roll); Entrées (Roasted John Dory or Roasted Beef Tenderloin); and Dessert (Coquito Panna Cotta or Traditional Christmas Chocolate Yule Log) for $65 per person.

Bulla - Miami, Florida

Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Cables; 305.441.0107}
Christmas Eve: Open for lunch and dinner (last reservation at 8:45pm), Bulla is offering its regular menu. For guests looking to enjoy their dinner at home, the restaurant will offer an à la carte to-go menu that includes Spanish favorites such as: Jamón De Bellota Ibérico; a dozen Croquetas De Jamón; Paella De Mariscos; and Cochinillo Ibérico Asado served with Patatas Panaderas and Salad (10 lb. pig for up to 10 guests: $300; 10-plus lb. pig for 10 to 16 guests: $360).

db bistro moderne miami bar

db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.421.8800}
Christmas Eve: From 6-11pm, Executive Chef Jason Pringle is offering a four-course prix-fixe menu featuring seasonal inspirations such as Nantucket Bay Scallops, Roasted Elk Loin, and Suckling Pig.
 On the sweet side, Pastry Chef Saeko Nemoto will be offering up variations of the Classic Bûche de Noël in addition to other delicious holiday treats. Share and taste options including charcuterie, cheese, and a raw bar are available as add-ons to the menu. Cost is $80 per person; $35 for children 12 and under. Complementing the dinner, Sommelier Alan Feldman will offer five bottles of Champagne from different producers at $99 each.

biltmore fontana

Fontana at the Biltmore {Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3200}
Christmas Eve: Expect a vast three-course dinner menu with a variety of delectable options prepared by Chef Giuseppe “Beppe” Galazzi for $105 per person.
Christmas Day: Lavish Champagne brunch for $95 per person.

La Mar Terrace

La Mar by Gastón Acurio {Mandarin Oriental, Miami, 500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358}
Christmas Eve: From 6-11pm, parties of four or more can enjoy a family-style Peruvian meal featuring dishes that include Cebiche Mixto, King Crab Causa, Whole Cornfish Hen, Arroz Arabe, and Warm Chocolate Tart. Cost is $70 per person; $35 children ages 6-12; free for children under 6.
Christmas Day: From noon-3pm, delight in a spectacular Peruvian brunch with gourmet items including stations of cebiches, tiraditos, and grilled anticucho skewers. Guests will enjoy Chaufa Aeropuerto for the table, as well as choice of specialty dish such as egg-topped Lomo Saltado served alongside refreshing beverages such as Chicha Morada. Decadent dessert towers will provide the perfect sweet ending to the meal. Cost is $85 per adult and includes Champagne and unlimited brunch cocktails; $120 per adult includes premium entrées and unlimited Charles Heidsieck Champagne; $35 children ages 6-12; free for children under 6.

Michael Mina 74

Michael Mina 74 {Fontainebleau, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: From 6-11pm, supplementary to the à la carte menu, diners can feast upon Roasted Chestnut Soup with pumpernickel, duck confit, and cinnamon gastrique, followed by Braised Short Ribs served with smoked polenta, pearl onion, and a Cabernet reduction; and for dessert, a decadent Christmas Bread Pudding with panettone, candied orange, and dark chocolate gelato.

palme dor biltmore

Palme d’Or at the Biltmore {Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3200}
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Join Michelin-Starred Chef Gregory Pugin for a four-course ($115) or six-course ($145) prix-fixe dinner. Menu items include Foie Gras Retour des Vendanges (red wine-poached foie gras with petite baguette); Le Cabillaud d’Alaska (Alaskan cod, king crab, coconut sauce, and potato bread); La Noisette de Chevreuil à la Chartreuse (venison tenderloin, chartreuse, grand veneur sauce, and shallot bread); and Traditional Christmas Log with fruit, ice cream, and chocolate. Bring gifts to be donated to Miami Children’s Hospital through Radio Lollipop.

Quattro Miami

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}
Christmas Eve and Day: Miami Beach’s go-to dining destination for authentic Northern Italian cuisine will offer its signature white truffle menu in addition to the regular lunch and dinner menus. Antipasti choices include Fonduta Tartufata con Crostini di Foccacia (fontina cheese fondue with truffle and fried quail egg with housemade focaccia); Tagliolini al Tartufo Bianco (fresh tagliolini with Italian truffle butter sauce); and Scaloppine di Vitello Tartufate (veal scaloppine with truffle butter sauce and truffle fries).

StripSteak

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200}
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: 
Seaspice will be featuring a Christmas-inspired specials menu in addition to it regular dinner menu. Appetizer specials include Hudson Valley Foie Gras Torchon and Chicken Boudin Blanc, while entrées include a Whole Roasted Sucking Pig that serves four people and a Prime Rib Roast. And for dessert, don’t miss out on the delectable Eggnog Cream Tart with stewed apples and ginger cookie crumbs.

StripSteak by Michael Mina {Fontainebleau, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
Christmas Eve: From 6-11pm, the restaurant is offering a three-course holiday-inspired prix-fixe menu ($75 per person) featuring a first course of Beausoliel Oysters with Petrossian caviar and a cucumber-ginger mignonette, followed by the main course, Pan-Roasted Duck Breast served with applewood smoked bacon, celery root purée, and huckleberry jus. For dessert, diners will enjoy the Yule Log topped with vanilla cream, cherry jelly, and flourless chocolate sponge.
Christmas Day: From 11am-3pm, StripSteak will offer a special brunch for $68 per person; the same Christmas Eve menu will be available for dinner.

Scarpetta at Fontainebleau

Scarpetta {Fontainebleau, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: From 6-11pm, those seeking a rustic yet elegant holiday meal can indulge in Scarpetta’s three-course prix-fixe menu ($75 per person) featuring Hamachi, Local Snapper, and Mussels Crudo with ginger, chile, and smoked royal trumpet mushroom as an appetizer, followed by the Scarpetta Cioppino with cod, prawn, scallop, clam, rapini stufato, and shellfish brodo. For dessert, a Ricotta Gelato Cream Puff will be served with warm peppermint chocolate sauce.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Mandarin Oriental Chefs

Chef Benjamin Murray of Azul (left) and Chef Diego Oko of La Mar by Gastón Acurio

’Tis the season for celebrating—and Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key, Brickell; 305.913.8358} is giving us yet another reason to do just that on Wednesday, December 16, in honor of the birthdays of Chef Benjamin Murray of Azul and Chef Diego Oka of La Mar by Gastón Acurio.

Guests who dine at either restaurant on this special date will enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles with dinner when wishing the chefs a happy birthday. In keeping with the celebratory spirit, the chefs will visit tables during their toast.

Additionally, the restaurants are offering the “ultimate birthday dining experience.” For $55 per person, diners will start their evening at Azul with a delicious Gyoza and Beef Tartare, served with a glass of bubbles. Then, they will be escorted to La Mar for the signature Peruvian King Crab Causa, Grouper Chorrillana, and a dessert of Peruvian Chocolate Mousse.

Celebrating in December—no matter the occasion—never does get old.

Azul La Mar Exterior 1

Exterior of Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s signature restaurants

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Art Basel has come and gone and Christmas and New Year’s are just weeks away (stay tuned for guides to each), but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate good food and friends in between! Here are some happenings taking place this month as we prepare to say farewell to 2015.

Palmeiras Beach Club at Grove Isle
When: Now open!
Where: Palmeiras Beach Club at Grove Isle {4 Grove Isle Drive; 305.858.8300}
What: Grove Isle, the pristine island located just a quarter mile from Coconut Grove, welcomes Palmeiras Beach Club, a new restaurant, beach club, boutique hotel, and spa concept by hospitality gurus Sami Kohen and Jacques Wulffaert. The main dining room, helmed by renowned Venezualen Chef Alfredo Alvarez (who helped open Seasalt & Pepper) presents a Mediterranean menu with dishes evocative of the Spanish, French, Italian, and Greek coasts. The restored property also features a 20-room hotel, a marina, tennis courts, the Taittinger Lounge and Beach Club, a private Perrier-Jouët Chef’s Table for up to 20 guests, a Patron Tequila Lounge, and more.

conrad miami

Jack Frost Happy Hour at Conrad Miami
When: Through December 30
Where: The Bar @ LvL25 at Conrad Miami {1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6500}
What: Celebrate the holidays with friends and colleagues with a special Winter Wonderland happy hour taking place all month long. Enjoy special cocktails and holiday quick bites as glittering snow falls over The Bar every 30 minutes!

biltmore

Share the Spirit at the Biltmore
When:
Every Tuesday and Wednesday through December 31
Where: The Biltmore Palme d’Or {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.445.3200}
What: Bring an unwrapped toy for a child and open the treasures of Palme d’Or’s exquisite tasting menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Gregory Pugin. Discover the flavors of France every in our four-course, prix-fixe menu for just $62 per person. In addition, Maître D’ Gregory Zarzycki invites you to bring your favorite bottle of wine or Champagne, and he will waive the corkage fee of $30 for up to two bottles per couple. All gifts will be donated to Miami Children’s Hospital through Radio Lollipop.

Wynwood Yard

Slow Food Miami’s Snail Social Happy Hour
When:
Tuesday, December 8, 6-8pm
Where: The Wynwood Yard {56 Northwest 29th Street, Wynwood}
What: Slow Food Miami, the local 100-percent volunteer nonprofit dedicated to planting a fresher future will hold its fourth Snail Social at The Wynwood Yard, a vibrant new pop-up that houses four exciting new food concepts: Della Test Kitchen, featuring a menu of customizable, globally inspired plant-based bowls; Myumi a traditional omakase sushi experience; Arabian Knife, offering Middle Eastern dishes; and Vibe 305, featuring Americana-inspired dishes curated by consulting chef Bradley Kilgore. Thyme, the full bar at the Wynwood Yard will offer attendees a complimentary glass of wine in addition to several drink specials.

Fontainebleau Wine cellar

Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series featuring StripSteak and Moet & Chandon
When:
Thursday, December 10 at 8pm
Where: Stripsteak at the Fontainebleau {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}
What: Paying homage to its storied past is commonplace at the Fontainebleau, so it makes sense that the Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series (named after the year the hotel opened), which pair the world’s most prestigious wines and winemakers with the award-winning cuisine of the hotel’s restaurants, have been a huge success. The series continues at this month StripSteak by Michael Mina with a decadent five-course menu prepared by Chef de Cuisine Derrick Roberts complemented by beverages from Moët & Chandon.

Thali Platter jaya at setai

Jaya Opens at The Setai
When:
Friday, December 11
Where: The Setai, Miami Beach {2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.520.6400}
What: The award-winning Setai hotel unveils its newest restaurant concept, Jaya, a bold and modern Asian-inspired restaurant. The restaurant is a partnership with Chef Mathias Gervais, who announced the new concept shortly after winning Food Network’s hit cooking show “Chopped.” Jaya is a sure win, too, thanks to its vibrant menu inspired by regional dishes of Japan, China, India, Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand. Jaya, which means “victory” in Sanskrit, was chosen to honor The Setai’s renowned interior designer, Jaya Ibrahim, and the hotel’s first decade of successful Asian-inspired hospitality. Menu highlights include the Egg Steam Bun with poached egg, bacon, cucumber relish, and caramel ginger; the Pork Bao Bun with grilled peach, cilantro, and Chinese barbecue; and the Thali Platter (pictured above), a traditional Indian dish with chicken, fish, and okra.

segafredo bayside

Segafredo Bayside Grand Opening Celebration
When:
 Wednesday, December 16, 7-10pm
Where: Segafredo Bayside at Bayside Marketplace {401 Biscayne Boulevard, Downtown; 786.420.2496}
What: From the same people who brought you Segafredo Espresso L’Originale on Lincoln Road comes Segafredo Bayside, a state-of-the-art kiosk with a full self-contained kitchen and an expansive bar at Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami. The restaurant is celebrating its grand opening with a party that’s open to the public with complimentary prosecco and a live show by Spam Allstars. The 580-square-foot kiosk and 2,500-square-foot outdoor space features the signature Segafredo red-and-black tabletops, its branded color red throughout in addition to an extensive craft cocktail menu with favorites such as the Aperol Spritz and the Pimm’s Cup.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

Cibo Fort Lauderdale

The much-anticipated Cibo Fort Lauderdale {4100 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; 786.900.2426} has finally opened its doors! The Italian restaurant and wine bar, which already has successful locations in Coral Gables and the South of Fifth neighborhood of South Beach, is a welcomed addition to the Fort Lauderdale dining scene, offering classic Italian cuisine in a relaxed and casual atmosphere at affordable prices.

Cibo Fort Lauderdale

The menu, which takes a cue from Cibo’s other South Florida locations, is what you’d expect from a traditional Italian eatery—only better. Selections include housemade pasta and signature pizzas, not to mention an extensive award-winning wine list. Upon arrival, diners are treated to a divine plate of fresh-from-the-oven bread, which set the tone for the meal to come.

Cibo Fort Lauderdale

Cibo Fort Lauderdale

Like the dishes themselves, the restaurant has been designed to evoke a sense of unpretentious sophistication and elegant rusticity. The new space incorporates the same unique design elements that are found throughout all Cibo locations, including its open kitchen, spacious bar area, industrial feel, and the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and exposed brick, along with, of course, hundreds of wine bottles on display.

Cibo Fort Lauderdale

The restaurant will also be offering Cibo’s signature weekly specials, including Lobster Tuesdays, Cibo Sociale Thursdays, and Italian Bubbles + Brunch on Sundays.

So, to all our readers who live or work in Broward County; we say, “Buon Appetito!”

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor