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Home / 2020 / February

6:46 pm
Tips and Trends
1

If brunching was a sport, Miami would be in the major leagues. Maybe it’s the constant sunshine and summer weather, but we South Floridians just love to spend our Saturdays and Sundays leisurely sipping rose and savoring delicious things. Still new to the whole brunch game? Don’t worry. Even if you haven’t yet started sipping the prosecco, these five Miami brunch spots will definitely make you a believer.

Seaspice

Brunch at Seaspice is an event worth getting excited for. Hosted both Saturdays and Sundays from 12-3:30 p.m., it’s a languid, rose-drenched affair best-enjoyed al fresco. Standouts from the a la carte brunch menu include the Seaspice lobster Benedict, served with potato hash, and chive hollandaise, and the hearty truffle parmesan tagliatelle, prepared with a poached organic egg. If you’re a traditionalist, opt for the shrimp avocado toast — it’s a fan favorite. 

Details: 422 NW N River Drive, Miami; for reservations, call 305-440-4200.

Los Fuegos by Francis Mallman

If you haven’t yet tried Los Fuegos’s legendary Sunday Asado brunch, you’re missing out big time. The key thing to remember here is to pace yourself; brunch at Los Fuegos is larger than life. Think stations where you can pile your plate high with salt-crusted salmon, skirt steak, lamb, and prime filet empanadas — not to mention a seafood ice bar loaded with oysters, snow crab claws and more. And we haven’t even gotten to dessert yet. 

Details: Brunch is priced at $95 per adult and $45 per child; 3201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; for reservations, call 786-655-5600.

The Deck at Island Gardens

Photo Credit: The Deck at Island Gardens

Michelin starred chef Alfio Longo is the mastermind behind the incredible Med-inspired menu at The Deck at Island Gardens — and Sunday brunch is the perfect way to experience all the magic of this waterfront hot spot. From noon to 4 p.m., kick back and soak up views of mega yachts gently bobbing atop the clear blue waters of the marina while you tuck into delicious offerings from a lavish buffet. We especially love the build-your-own-omelet station and Chef Longo’s BBQ options at the grill station. Make sure to save room for the roasted hazelnut brownie — it’s divine.

Details: Brunch is priced at $65 per person and includes a welcome mimosa or bellini; 888 MacArthur Causeway, Miami; for reservations, call 786-627-4949 or visit here.

LT Steak & Seafood at The Betsy

LT Steak & Seafood is the crowned culinary gem of the iconic Betsy South Beach. The spot is a go-to for romantic date nights, but this month we want to shine the spotlight on their Sunday Jazz Brunch, hosted weekly from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Executive Chef Danny Ganem has curated an a la carte menu of New American cuisine fused with international flavors, like Cuban molletes, crispy black grouper tacos, and a top-rated popover Benedict served with Gruyère cheese and ham. You can pair your meal with tasty libations from the bar, including craft cocktails and traditional brunch sips like bloody Marys and mimosas. It’s all set to the sounds of live jazz by visiting and local performers. 

Details: Unlimited mimosas or bellinis are available for $30 per person; 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; for reservations, call 305-531-6100. 

Via Emilia Garden

Tucked away in Miami’s chic Midtown neighborhood, this lovely gem feels a world away from the bustle of the city. Check out their Italian brunch on Sundays from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and make sure you wear your eating pants — priced at just $45, the menu includes unlimited pasta, bottomless mimosas, and antipasti and dessert buffets.

Details: 3500 N Miami Avenue, Miami; for reservations, call 786-359-4990.

By Amanda Mesa, Contributing Writer

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6:35 pm
Restaurant Features
2

Enjoy art, food and fun at this Wynwood Institution

When you think of Wynwood, what comes to mind? Art is usually the first thing that pops up for us: Street murals are everywhere, along with galleries galore. The other thing that comes to mind is food. Over the years, the area has gone from a warehouse district to a dining mecca. But before there was an eatery on every street, there was R House. 

Back in 2014, the restaurant opened when Wynwood was still growing into the beast it has become today. And years later, R House continues to draw crowds for its gorgeous art, globally inspired food and fun vibes. Leading the kitchen is chef/owner Rocco Carulli, who’s the R behind R House. He and his husband Owen Bale have created a concept that fits right into the artsy neighborhood. You’ll be drawn in by the many murals and stay for the food and good times. 

Tuna Tartare

The diverse menu pulls from Carulli’s Italian American heritage; sauces and other flavorful components brighten up familiar dishes like tuna tartare, arancini, and brisket and short rib meatballs. Many of the appetizers skew large – all the more reason to come in a group – so don’t eat with your eyes here (it’s easy to do). One or two appetizers should be enough for parties four or smaller, and you’ll want to save room for Carulli’s even heartier mains.

One big standout is the sweet chili fried chicken, which perfectly walks the line between sweet and spicy; it’s a delicate balance that your taste buds will thoroughly enjoy. There’s just something so satisfying about the kick you get from biting into the extra crispy skin and juicy chicken; we were sad that our entree eventually had to end. 

Braised Short Rib

On the other side of the protein spectrum was the braised short rib, which will take you aback with its size. It’s a dish that you’ll likely end up taking home – we did – and enjoy as leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. You can almost consider it two meals in one; it’s a great value. 

Rounding out the offerings is a small selection of sweets, including Rocco’s popular zeppole. These Italian dough balls with raspberries and chocolate chips are surprisingly light and not overpoweringly sweet. If you don’t want to hate yourself, consider these over the more decadent tres leches or homemade chocolate brownie.

In the end, what we enjoy the most about R House is the fact that it packs many experiences in one place. While we went for a romantic dinner, it’s also a great place for grabbing drinks or watching a show – a drag show, to be exact. 

A “beat the clock” happy hour during the week provides guests with drinks and bites for as low as $3 an item; it’s one of the best deals in the area. And on weekends, R House turns into a party. Saturdays and Sundays are home to the restaurant’s famous drag brunch, where lively performers keep patrons entertained amidst bottomless drinks. If you’re considering coming for brunch, we suggest you make a reservation well in advance – it fills up fast. 

So whatever the occasion, keep R House at the top of your list. Once you visit, you’ll understand why this Wynwood institution has withstood the test of time – and will continue to. 

Geoffrey Anderson, a contributing writer

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3:58 am
Recipes
0

Boiled and Baked Octopus from Old Lisbon, Serves 6

Ingredients
– 6 lb octopus (preferably from Old Lisbon market)
– 8 potatoes, peeled and rinsed
– 4 lb fresh broccoli florets, washed
– 10 oz garlic, minced
– 4 Tbsp Olive Oil
– 1/2 c olives
– 1 tsp Parsley

Method
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large pot, boil the octopus for 30 minutes. In a separate pot, boil potatoes and broccoli with oil and garlic. Place octopus and vegetables in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. To assemble the plate, place broccoli first, then octopus, with potatoes on the side. Garnish with parsley and olives.

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1:17 pm
Tips and Trends
0

When it comes to living lavishly, Miami knows what’s up. Everyone here wants to party like a VIP, and that’s especially obvious during Yacht Week, happening February 13-17. But you don’t need to be a millionaire to party like one during this year’s bougiest boating festivities. Day passes for the Miami International Boat Show and the Miami Yacht Show start at just $30 and include prime access to yachts that cost more than some mansions in Sunset Islands. If you really want to live your best life during this exciting time, here are four fabulous experiences to cross off your Yacht Week checklist.

Lounge like a billionaire on the Sunreef Endless Horizon

You’ll certainly have a healthy pick of megayachts to oggle at the Boat Show, but we’re going gaga over Sunreef’s Endless Horizon. It’s the first time this 80’ catamaran (and its sister ship, the 50’ Paz) have ever been seen in the United States, and you absolutely need to stop by Sunreef’s booth for a tour. Come hungry, too — Chef Nicolas Mazier of MILA will be onboard Endless Horizon serving delectable dishes from the recently opened and wildly successful Miami hotspot, all paired with wine by Whispering Angel and cocktails spotlighting Barcelo Imperial Rum. Swing by Thursday, February 13, or Friday, February 14, and you’ll also get to enjoy glasses of Mionetto Prestige Prosecco onboard, which tastes just as delicious by itself as it does in a spritz.

Kick back at The Deck at Island Gardens in between touring mega yachts

Both the Boat Show and Yacht Show will each host a ton of great food and drink vendors, but we suggest saving room for lunch at The Deck at Island Gardens. In celebration of Yacht Week, the waterside restaurant and lounge will stay open for lunch February 13-15. The Deck at Island Gardens has also teamed up with Chateau d’Esclans and Whispering Angel to host a gorgeous pop-up flower market during Saturday’s lunch. If you stick around for Sunset Sparkling Hour from 6-8 p.m., you’ll get to enjoy specially priced drinks. 

Keep the glam vibes going strong on the Serenity 64

The world’s newest leader in solar-powered yachts, Serenity Yachts is celebrating its U.S. debut at this year’s Boat Show. Stop by their booth and linger aboard the stunning Serenity 64, a zero-emission stunner with three luxurious cabins and interiors inspired by Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Ken Downing.

Tuck into a special Boat Show feast at Juvia

If you think Juvia’s rooftop brunch is legendary, don’t miss the special prix fixe menu this Miami Beach mainstay is launching around Yacht Week. From 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. during Boat Show days, guests will have the option to enjoy a prix fixe three-course lunch priced at $55. Standouts from the menu include crispy wagyu beef gyozas, Mediterranean branzino, vanilla panna cotta and more. Enjoy it this week only while it lasts.

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1:15 pm
Tips and Trends
0

Looking for amazing food and drink deals to take advantage of after a long day at work? We’ve rounded up another five restaurants that know how to do happy hour in Miami right. Amazing bar bites, global wines, local brews, and expertly crafted cocktails — you’ll find them all at these South Florida hotspots, and at prices that won’t break your budget. 

Central Fare

Even if you’re not catching a train to get back home, Central Fare at the VirginMiami Central is a great spot to hit up for happy hour. One of it’s buzziest restaurants, La Estacion American Brasserie, serves $4 beer, $5 wine and $6 cocktails weekdays from 4-7 p.m.

600 NW 1st Avenue, 2nd Floor, Miami

Vista

Vista should be your happy hour go-to if you live or work in the Buena Vista area. Happy hour here runs from 3-8 p.m. on weekdays and highlights an amazing selection of craft cocktails and wine for $7 and draft beer for $5 — plus 50% off anything from the well drink bar.

5020 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami

Pizza & Burger 

This month’s award for most flexible happy hour goes to Pizza & Burger at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The Michael Mina spot hosts Social Hour from 5-7 p.m., followed by Reverse Hour from 11 p.m. until midnight, spotlighting specially priced cocktails, half-priced beer on tap, and a somm’s selection of vino.

4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach

Corsair Kitchen + Bar

Happy hour at Corsair Kitchen + Bar takes place daily from 3-6 p.m., so you can take advantage during the weekend, too. Forget run-of-the-mill bar bites — this hotspot serves up amazing options like Corsair’s famous wings, a five-ounce burger, a Mediterranean platter, charcuterie and cheese, and more — all for great prices. You’ll also enjoy $9 specialty cocktails, $5 draft beers, and $7 wines by the glass.

19999 West Country Club Drive in Aventura

Boulud Sud

Located inside the JW Marriott, Boulud Sud turns up weekdays from 5-8 p.m. Brickellites flock to the bar and lounge to take advantage of $9 cocktails, $8 wines by the glass, $7 house drinks, $6 frozen drinks, $5 beer and $4 tapas — how’s that for a sweet slew of specials? The weekend crew can also save on late-night sips and snacks with deals every Saturday from 10 p.m. until midnight.

255 Southeast 4th Street, Miami

By Amanda Mesa, Contributing Writer

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12:39 pm
Tips and Trends
0

If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in the right city. Miami boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in the country — no wonder, given our status as a major port city and our proximity to prime fishing waters. In addition to that, Miami is home to a great number of incredible chefs from around the world, so you can always count on variety when it comes to choosing where to go eat. To make the decision process easier for you, here are six suggestions on great Miami restaurants to try right now if you’re craving something delicious from the sea. 

BLT Prime Doral

It’s the start of a new decade, and BLT Prime Doral knows how to kick it off right. The famed restaurant has launched an oyster and martini pairing that includes a half dozen oysters paired with a martini (you can choose between Grey Goose vodka or Hendrick’s gin as the base), all for $20.20. Rejoice, oyster lovers, and get in on this special while it lasts — you likely won’t find a deal as good as this in Miami for another ten years.

4400 NW 87th Avenue, Miami

A Fish Called Avalon

This Ocean Drive spot has been around for three decades — a feat that’s incredibly hard to pull off in Miami Beach, so you know the food is good. There’s live music every night on the front porch and great happy hour specials every day from 6-8 p.m., but the real draw here is the menu. Order the crab-crusted grouper in a Chenin blanc butter sauce, or share the orzo seafood paella with someone special — it’s big enough for two and comes with Maine lobster, shrimp, sea scallops, mussels and more.

700 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach.

Seaspice

Gorgeous views of the Miami River and downtown skyline. The sound of the water lapping gently just steps away from your table. The scent of herbs and smoking wood wafting toward you from the kitchen. Welcome to Seaspice. Frequented by celebrities and locals alike, Seaspice serves a globally inspired menu brimming with all kinds of tasty creations, but seafood lovers should definitely try one of the restaurant’s famous platters. There are three options, the most extravagant of which includes two pounds of lobster, eight jumbo prawns, 24 oysters, Alaskan king crab, two ounces of Osetra caviar, sashimi, hamachi, and ceviche. 

422 NW N River Drive, Miami

Seawell Fish N’ Oyster

Come to Seawell for a taste of classic Americana with a twist, all expertly curated by Chef Julian Garriga. You’ll find all the staples here, from creamy clam chowder and lobster rolls, to beer-battered fish n’ chips and a rotating daily catch sourced from day boats — all served in a casual, nautical setting. Pair your seafood pick with one of the restaurant’s amazing cocktails (the Tavern Spritz is our current favorite).

660 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach

Lobster Bar Sea Grille

A go-to for happy hour, brunch and date night, Lobster Bar Sea Grille checks all the boxes for a great seafood restaurant experience: a buzzing atmosphere, upscale design, and a great menu featuring both freshly caught and imported seafood. There’s plenty of fantastic options to choose from here, including a full raw bar menu that ranges from stone crab claws from Key West, to a magnificent shellfish tower. And if you’re a fan of caviar, you’ll find lots of delicious picks — we’re partial to the Siberian Baerii.

404 Washington Ave, Miami Beach

Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market

When Garcia’s opened in 1966, it was initially a fish market and wholesaler. Today, this local institution is repeatedly rated as one of the best places to eat seafood in Miami. Still family-owned, Garcia’s serves fish caught fresh off Florida’s coast every day by its own team. Start with Garcia’s famous fish dip and order some cracked conch fried or grilled. And if you’re having a tough time deciding on an entree, just ask your server for suggestions — everything here is delicious and fresh.

398 NW N River Drive, Miami

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