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Home / Posts Tagged "bulla gastrobar"

10:50 am
Restaurant Features
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Sangria at Bulla Gastrobar

Here is this week’s Miami food news:

South Pointe Tavern Opens in South of Fifth
Now open in the luxurious South of Fifth neighborhood, South Pointe Tavern is a casual and intimate tavern, fit for locals and tourists alike. It has the largest menu of whiskeys and tequilas in Miami Beach, a custom cocktail program created by Robert Ferrara of Distilled Hospitality, and serves artisanal food like ceviches, crudos, flatbreads, salads, charcuterie plates, paninis, and more. Look around the restaurant and you’ll see artwork hanging on the walls that’s as inventive and creative as the place itself; like Picasso, the Rolling Stones, Andy Warhol, Basquiat, Jack Kerouac, Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot, Bob Dylan, and Catherine Deneuve, to name a few.
ORA Opens on South Beach with Hot New Cocktail Program
Opening on Collins Avenue, the haute new nightlife spot, ORA, is the first nightclub-meets-cocktail-bar hybrid to offer white glove mixology as part of its table and bar service. Helmed by veteran mixologist Rodger Gillespie, this spot replaces traditional “bottle service” and mixers with table-side assigned mixologists that will work with guests to create specialty cocktails with locally-sourced ingredients right in front of their very eyes. Adding to its allure, Gillespie was the 2013 Nightclub & Bar Don Julio Competition winner, the 2013 Bombay Sapphire Most Imaginative Bartender Award winner, and past winner of the Bombay Sapphire People’s Choice Award. That said, you know it’s going to be good.
The Setai Presents: The Ocean Grill
Led by Executive Chef Mathias Gervais, winner of Food Network’s Chopped, and Premier Sous Chef Alberic Millory, Miami Beach’s most enchanting Asian-inspired hotel, The Setai, Miami Beach {2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 855.923.7899} now has a new outdoor dining option: The Ocean Grill. Replacing The Pool and Beach Bar, this new open-to-the-public spot debuted during Art Basel, offering diners an expanded dining deck, extra beachfront seating, longer hours, breathtaking views, and of course, delicious food. Go there for a Mediterranean-inspired menu with standout dishes like Whole Fish, Hangar Steak, Spanish Octopus, and a crowd favorite, White Truffle Pizza.
Tuesday is National Sangria Day!
Tuesday, December 20, is National Sangria Day, and it calls for celebrating at some of Miami’s top restaurants and bars. On our list? Cibo Wine Bar, Bulla Gastrobar, Brasserie Azur, Wynwood Kitchen and Bar, and Kendall’s newest farm-to-table hotspot, The Brick. They all have sip-worthy sangria you’ll want to keep drinking over and over again.
Happy dining!
By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

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9:04 am
Restaurant Features
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1. Shanghai Nights at Bazi

When: Every Sunday beginning April 10
Where: Bazi {The Marlin Hotel, 1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.695.0101}
What: Starting April 10, every Sunday, Bazi will offer a special Shanghai Nights menu allowing diners to indulge in some of their favorite dishes—such as Chicken, Beef, or Shrimp Lo Mein; Beef and Broccoli, General Tso’s Chicken, and Mu Shu Pork—for only $10 each.

Quattro Miami Interior Photo credit Gary James

Quattro’s Wine Tower

2. Bacco Nights at Quattro

When: Every Monday night
Where: Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}
What: Lincoln Road’s top destination for authentic regional Italian cuisine introduces Bacco Night every Monday during dinner, where bottles of wine on La Bucca di Bacco, Quattro’s impressively diverse wine list of over 200 bottles from 20 different Italian regions, will be 50-percent off.

3. Half-Off Wine Bottles at TiramesU

When: Every Tuesday through October
Where: TiramesU {101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.532.4538}
What: At its new South of Fifth location, the 25-year-old TiramesU continues to bring familiar flavors to the next level by creating specials that feature fresh seasonal produce and imported ingredients. Starting this month, every Tuesday, the restaurant will offer any of its bottles of wine at 50-percent off, a weekly occasion to indulge in one’s expansive taste or try different wines.

4. Administrative Professionals Day

When: Through April 27
Where: Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}
What: In honor of Administrative Professionals Day on April 27, Bulla is offering a free glass of sangría or dessert to all administrative professionals just by showing their business card. Bosses too can show their appreciation: Purchase a gift card for your assistant and receive a $10 gift card for every $100 you spend!

DIRT recipe

Beet & Goat Cheese Toast by DIRT’s Jeff Latulippe

5. StarChefs 2016 Rising Stars Gala

When: Wednesday, April 13, 6:30-9:30pm
Where: Marlins Park {501 Marlins Way, Miami}
What: StarChefs honors up-and-coming chefs and hospitality professionals who represent the vanguard of the contemporary American dining scene. The 2016 winners, which include Chef Diego Oka of La Mar by Gasón Acurio and Jeff Latulippe of DIRT, will be honored and will showcase their finest dishes alongside the winning sommeliers and bartenders. A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to Feeding South Florida, a nonprofit food bank that distributes more than 40 million pounds of food per year. General Admission: $85 per person. Click here to purchase tickets.

6. (Mostly) Jazz at The Betsy

When: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8-11pm
Where: The Betsy-South Beach {1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.760.6900}
What: Twice per week, guests are invited to enjoy sumptuous BLT Steak cuisine at the Lobby Bar while enjoying the live jazz music. Upcoming performances include:

  • Wednesday, April 13: Roxana Amed / Martin Bejerano
  • Thursday, April 14: Mike Gerber
  • Thursday, April 21: Liz Bieler
  • Wednesday, April 27: Davis and Dow Duo
  • Thursday, April 28: Markus Gottschlich
Quality Meats_Double Rib Steak for two

Quality Meats Double Rib Steak

7. Quality Meats Three-Day Steer Roast

When: April 14-16
Where: Quality Meats {1501 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.340.3333}
What: Over the course of three nights, Executive Chef Patrick Rebholz is partnering with up-and-coming Chef Norberto “Negro” Piattoni for a whole steer cookout extravaganza. A 900-pound steer will be cooked in a specially constructed “fire kitchen” on Quality Meats’ expansive terrace. Events are as follows:

  • Thursday, April 14: Asada Barbecue ($59 per person including beer pairings) with whole ribs, sausage, and various steaks including bavette, hanger, flank, and skirt steak.
  • Friday, April 15: Family-Style Meal ($79 per person including wine pairings) with menu items such as Beef Liver Pâté, Fried Ground Beef Empanadas, Smoked Brisket, and Roasted Bone Marrow.
  • Saturday, April 16: Formal Night, a seated four-course affair ($99 with wine pairing) with a sophisticated menu to match featuring a main course of tender grilled Bone-In Rib-Eye with wild mushrooms and Charred Beef with grilled bok choy and dashi. Click here to reserve your space.

8. COYA Miami’s One-Year Anniversary Celebration

When: Thursday, April 14, at 7pm
Where: COYA Miami {999 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.415.9990}
What: Brickell’s chic Peruvian eatery COYA is celebrating its first year in Miami with a special celebration featuring complimentary Para Picar and Pisco Sours in the Pisco Bar until 8pm. Guests who make dinner reservations will also receive complimentary bubbles and dessert. RSVP here: [email protected].

9. Fontainebleau’s Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series

When: Thursday, April 14, at 8pm
Where: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau {Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
What: Fontainebleau’s Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series continues with dinner at Scarpetta featuring Napa Valley’s legendary Opus One Winery. The evening will be hosted by France Posener, sales director for the winery. Diners will enjoy a five-course menu prepared by Chef de Cuisine Neil O’Connell, each of which will be paired with a different varietal from the winery. Price is $350 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by clicking here.

10. Standard Sounds Presents Jazz Lounge

When: Thursday, April 28, 8-11pm
Where: The Standard Spa, Miami Beach {40 Island Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.673.1717}
What: The Standard Spa, Miami Beach is bringing live jazz to The Lido. The hotel has teamed up with Peroni to bring you the best of Magic City’s scene the last Thursday of every month, April through June, curated and hosted by Dr. Chad Bernstein, trombonist, social entrepreneur, and lover of mollusks. Click here to RSVP.

Snail of Approval chefs and hosts

Slow Food Miami’s 2015 Snail of Approval chefs and hosts

11. Slow Food Miami’s Snail of Approval Tasting Party

When: Friday, April 29, 7-10pm
Where: 1 Hotel & Homes South Beach {2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach}
What: Join world-renowned chef, restaurateur, and TV host Tom Colicchio for Miami’s “Freshest Night Out.” The fifth-annual celebration will welcome South Florida’s best farm-to-table chefs, including Anthony Sitek of Apeiro Kitchen & Bar, Nicole Votano of Dirt, Mark Zeitouni from The Lido at The Standard, and many others. All event proceeds benefit Slow Food Miami’s Edible Garden Program. Click here to purchase tickets.

12. Las Olas Wine & Food Festival

When: Friday, April 29, 7:30-10:30pm
Where: Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
What: The 2016 LOWFF will welcome 45 wineries and 60 restaurants to take over Las Olas Boulevard, one of the few nights of the year Fort Lauderdale’s main thoroughfare closes down to pedestrians. This year, the American Lung Association has partnered with CI Management to create an unforgettable evening. Each street will have a little flair with live music, DJs, culinary and mixology demonstrations, interactive retail displays, and more. Also new this year: Best of the Best Restaurant Competitions on the main stage featuring various dueling restaurants. An expert panel of judges from will decide who will be named best of the best. For a complete lineup of events and ticket information, visit lasolaswff.com or call 954.727.0907.

13. Villa Azur’s Five-Course Menu + Wine Pairing

When: Every Friday evening
Where: Villa Azur {309 23rd Street, Miami Beach; 305.763.8688}
What: Delight your palate with Villa Azur’s flavorful, refined, yet approachable Mediterranean cuisine with a five-course menu that changes weekly. Each dish is paired with a hand-selected wine—all for just $80 per person. Plus, on the last Friday of every month, the restaurant will feature live music to enhance your dinner experience. This month’s featured artist (April 29, 9pm-Midnight) will be the R&B/soul/funk musician Keba and her band.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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7:58 am
Restaurant Features
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Bulla Gastrobar

It’s lunchtime at Bulla, and the food keeps coming: slices of Spanish cheese and cured meats artfully arranged on wooden boards; rustic Pan con Tomate (grilled tomato bread); a wedge of Tortilla Española with streaks of garlic aïoli; and spicy, briny Gambas al Ajillo (sautéed shrimp) swimming in extra virgin olive oil flecked with garlic.

It all reflects the beauty of dining tapas-style, which the Spanish-themed Bulla encourages. The food comes out in quick bursts; diners never wait for the often frustrating slower pace of a traditional kitchen. Instead, dishes hit the table minutes after they are ordered—especially the cheese and cured meat selections.

Most impressively, Bulla’s culinary team is efficient without sacrificing quality. In fact, most dishes are prepped and cooked à la minute—as they are ordered. The delicious Ensalada de Pulpo (octopus salad) is a perfect example. The chefs chop heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers on the spot, quickly bathing the octopus in olive oil, oregano, and lemon before grilling it and, finally, sautéing the croutons. When this dish arrives, it is fresh and flavorful.

Tapas

This Spanish cooking style—simple, clean, and artisanal—is what Bulla Owner Carlos Centurion continues to perfect. When the restaurateur first launched Bulla three years ago, the entire menu featured traditional tapas from Spain, and while the Coral Gables eatery has evolved over time to incorporate a few American food trends— including burgers, kale salad, and quinoa—the philosophy of Bulla has remained intact. It’s a family-style neighborhood restaurant focusing on straightforward cooking techniques utilizing the best ingredients.

Many people don’t think of us as a Spanish restaurant. They think of us as the neighborhood restaurant. Most of our crowd is made up of locals. —Carlos Centurion, owner

“We want to be a restaurant that everyone likes,” says Centurion. “We don’t want to hear somebody say, ‘I don’t like Spanish food.’ We have options that aren’t in-your-face Spanish.” The Costillas de Res (braised short ribs) almost seems French in its preparation, with the short ribs braised in red wine in the oven for three hours and topped with glazed cipollini onions. But instead of plating it as one large slab of meat, it is portioned into three pieces for easy sharing.

Bulla’s version of the Tortilla Española—a classic small plate found on menus from Marbella to Miami—is made fresh every morning with eggs, thinly sliced potatoes confited with onions, olive oil, and roasted garlic aïoli. The secret? Cooking the omelette to medium-rare so the eggs remain tender and soft.

On the other hand, one of Bulla’s most popular— and experimental—dishes is the Huevos Bulla. While it seems like another egg-based small plate with potatoes, it’s anything but. Two fried eggs are nestled in a bowl with homemade potato chips, potato foam, truffle oil, and slices of serrano ham. The magic happens tableside, as the server swirls it all together with two forks, creating vibrant yellow rivers of egg yolks oozing over the potato chips. Each bite can only be described as transcendent.

Speaking of heavenly ingredients, it’s worth the splurge to order the Jamón de Bellota “5J.” Why is this Ibérico ham such a delicacy? It starts with free-range pigs that are fed primarily acorns. Next, the highest quality cuts of pork are selected, processed, and cured in salt for 36 months. The result is meat with a nutty flavor that, when sliced right, melts in your mouth. Bulla’s ham pairs well with its cheese selection, all sourced from Spain, including Cabrales, Tetilla, Mahón, and Manchego.

Bulla

Another do-not-miss specialty? Bulla’s Paella, prepared two ways. The traditional Valencia paella involves cooking both the rice and seafood together with savory fish stock. The Catalonian technique, called Arroz a Banda, translates to “rice apart from seafood” and entails cooking the seafood and rice separately. Both paella dishes are layered with flavor and red-orange in color, which is actually more authentic than the bright yellow hue some diners may have grown to expect.

“In the ’80s and ’90s, the best restaurants in Spain put yellow food coloring in their paellas,” Centurion says. “It doesn’t add any flavor. It just makes it yellow. Tourists think this yellow color is good.” He explains that Bulla uses saffron to flavor its paella, which gives it more of a red- orange color. “Now, all the great restaurants in Spain use saffron. When you see a paella that is bright yellow, it most likely has added dye.”

In response to customers’ frequent requests, Bulla recently added a hamburger to the menu. Centurion held out for a year and a half before finally adding it to the lunch menu. But this American classic is prepared with Spanish influences, of course. Cipollini onions, piquillo peppers, honey-thyme glaze, and Tetilla cheese make it as unique as Bulla itself. Within one month, this became Bulla’s best-selling sandwich.

Brunch also came later in the process, with a few tweaks before it emerged as a popular weekend indulgence. Bulla’s brunch spans both Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and offers the option of all-you-can-drink mimosas and sangría for an extra charge. Three versions of sangría include white wine, red wine, and beer.

These brunch beverages are all part of a mixology program that’s both classic and innovative, with many cocktails featuring fresh fruit and herbs. The Gin & Tonic, for example, starts with bottled Fever Tree tonic water poured into a large wine glass with oversized ice cubes. In go the gin, five
juniper berries, a lime wheel, and lemon peel, making for an aromatic and refreshing result.

Bulla designed the bar to be food-friendly, too, adding extra-deep countertops, bar stools with backs, and great views throughout the restaurant. “It’s a gastronomic bar,” says Centurion, “and the bartenders are very knowledgeable about both food and drink.” They can steer you through the 75-bottle wine list and point you to a tasty bar snack like Patatas Bravas (crispy potatoes with aïoli).

Thanks to the friendly and approachable staff, a fun atmosphere (including a playlist spanning everything from Latin and Spanish rock to modern flamenco), and affordable pricing, Bulla has become a vibrant local hangout in Coral Gables. “We do our best to be part of the community,” Centurion says. “Many people don’t think of us as a Spanish restaurant. They think of us as the neighborhood restaurant. Most of our crowd is made up of locals.”

Although Bulla’s vibrant ambience and neighborly feel very much reflect Miami’s dining community, residents in other cities can get excited, too. Bulla, which is Spanish slang for “chatter,” is buzzing with expansion plans. The concept will launch in Doral in April and Winter Park (outside Orlando) in September. Future locations in Tampa, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, and Charlotte are also in the works. To that, all we can say is olé!

By Jacquelynn Powers Maurice | Contributor 

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2:48 pm
Restaurant Features
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easter

Easter comes early this year! Are you still looking to make plans? We’ve put together a roundup of some of the best places to score a reservation for Easter 2016 in Miami.

Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room {1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6500}
From Noon-3pm, join Atrio at the Conrad Miami for an Easter brunch featuring a full American breakfast buffet and omelette station; a seafood bar; a selection of seasonal salads (Tomato Salad, Orzo Pasta and Minted Zucchini Salad, and Mini Salmon Salad Niçoise); a meat station; and an expansive dessert station. Kids will enjoy a special egg hunt, egg decorating, and Easter baskets. Cost is $75 per adult, $27 per child ages 5-12.

The Biltmore Hotel {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3200}
From 10am-4pm, treat yourself and your family to one of Miami’s most celebrated and lavish Champagne brunches featuring an extravagant buffet with delicacies such as caviar, smoked salmon, shellfish, carved meats, fresh omelettes, pastas, sushi, desserts, and more. Cost is $95 per person.

Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}
This year, Easter falls on the same day as National Paella Day, and Bulla is preparing a special paella feast on its beautiful terrace. Enjoy passed Gazpacho Andaluz; a meat and cheese platter; Patatas Bravas; and a trio of Paella de la Huerta, Paella de Pollo y Setas, and Paella Mar y Montana. A mini flan will end the evening on a sweet note. The event will take place at 6:30pm is priced at $48 per person (add $15 for bottomless sangria). Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling the restaurant.

Cipriani {Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 786.329.4090}
For Easter Sunday, Cirpiani will be offering a special all-day three-course menu for just $90 per person. Diners will enjoy a welcome Bellini, choice of appetizer (Burrata “alla Mediterranea” or Homemade Ravioli with fresh peas, butter, and Parmesan); choice of main course (Pan-Roasted Monkfish with lemon and capers served with rice pilaf or Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder with rosemary potatoes and braised chicory); and a Hazelnut Parfait for dessert. For reservations, call restaurant or email [email protected].

COYA {999 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.415.9990}
From noon-3pm, Brickell’s new Peruvian restaurant is offering a special three-course Easter brunch menu for just $45 per person (add $25 per person for bottomless select cocktails, Champagne, and rosé wine). The first course will include four Crocantes for the table to share, including the Ceviche Clasico and the Chicharron de Cerdo; choice of signature entrée; and chef’s selection of desserts for the table. There will be an Easter egg hunt for kids in addition to an adult Easter egg hunt where one lucky will receive dinner for two at COYA plus a two-night stay at the JW Marriott Miami.

Jaya at The Setai {2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 855.923.7899}
An indulgent culinary journey awaits with The Setai’s famous Sunday brunch featuring jazz band Vinyl Blvd and an array of rotisserie, seafood, Indian, and Asian stations. Two seatings are available: 11:45am and 2pm. A special Easter egg hunt will take place in the courtyard at 11am. Cost is $115 per adult; $58 per child. Other Easter events at the Setai: Easter Egg Painting Class on Saturday, March 26 at 3:30pm, and an Egg Cracking Ceremony at the pool and beach bar on Monday, March 28 at 5pm. For reservations, call 855.923.7899 or email [email protected].

Market at EDITION {2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.257.4600}
The Miami Beach EDITION’s signature Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant will offer a special three-course dinner for $65 per person. First Course: Scotch Egg with pickled spring vegetable salad; Second Course: Rabbit Ravioli with English peas and Riesling thyme reduction; Dessert: Strawberry Rhubarb Panna Cotta.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room {900 South Miami Avenue, Brickell; 305.372.8862}
Oceanaire will be opening early at 11am and offering special brunch items such as Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, Brioche French Toast, and Crab Cake Eggs Benedict along with classic seafood favorites.

Tamarina {600 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.579.1888}
Join Tamarina for an Italian Easter with its signature Sunday brunch buffet from 11:30am-4pm. The restaurant will be set up with carving, pasta, dessert, and omelette stations. At 2pm, kids eating at Tamarina are invited to a fountain-side Easter egg hunt in the plaza with balloon animals.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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12:21 pm
Restaurant Features
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Valentine’s Day is less than two weeks away. Do you know where you’re spending it? Below, we offer the most complete roundup of V-Day offerings Miami has to offer. Here’s how to spend Valentine’s Day in Miami.

Downtown and Brickell

Valentine's Day in Miami

Atrio’s Raspberry Mille-Feuille

Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room {Conrad Miami, 1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6529}
Spoil your sweetheart with a three-course meal with choices such as Poached Oysters and Beef Tenderloin, and decadent Raspberry Mille-Feuille, all with a side of skyline backdrop from 25 stories up. Price is $65 per person; includes one glass of prosecco and complimentary valet parking.

Azul {Mandarin Oriental, Miami, 500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358}
A five-course meal will be served Feb. 12-14 for $350 per couple. Includes bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, a box of handmade chocolates, and a rose petal decorated table. Menu items include Yellowfin Tuna, Whipped Foie Gras, Sea Scallops, Hibiscus Braised Short Rib, and a Couples Dessert.

Scampi al forno

Langoustine Scampi al Forno from Cipriani

Cipriani {465 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 786.329.4090}
Celebrate V-Day Cipriani-style with an authentic three-course Italian dinner for $95 per person. Includes signature welcome Bellini; choice of appetizer; choice of entrée from Gnocchi al Pomodoro, Roasted Rack of Veal, or Langoustine Scampi al Forno; and choice of dessert. Click here for full menu.

db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.421.8800}
February 13-14, Daniel Boulud’s French bistro is offering a four-course menu for $155 per person, featuring choice of Peekytoe Crab Salad or Guinea Hen Terrine, followed by Black Truffle Risotto and your choice of a Duo of Beef or Butter-Poached Lobster. Sommelier Alan Feldman will offer wine selections to highlight the dishes. Click here for full menu.

La Mar by Gastón Acurio {Mandarin Oriental, Miami, 500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358}
A trio of special dishes will be available 11:30am-11pm February 12-13 and 6-11pm February 14. Also on V-Day, indulge in a Peruvian-style brunch with cebiches, specialty entrées, and decadent desserts, plus unlimited Champagne and brunch cocktails for $85 per person.

Seaspice valentines

Seaspice’s Seafood Carnival

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200}
Enjoy the Seafood Carnival, market priced from $600-$750, which includes two two-pound lobsters, eight jumbo prawns, 24 oysters, Alaskan king crab, Florida stone crab, tuna sashimi, salmon sashimi, hamachi sashimi, salmon coconut ceviche, and 2oz Sevruga caviar. Tip: Ask for Table 85, a dimly lit riverside table overlooking the downtown skyline.

Tamarina {600 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.579.1888}
February 12-14, enjoy the chef’s special tasting menu for $180 per couple. On February 13, there will be a free open-air movie, “The Book of Life,” at the Brickell World Plaza, where Tamarina will be serving Valentine’s sweets and gelato. On Sunday, the restaurant hosts its “Lovers Brunch,” featuring a live jazz band performing in the plaza.

The Trapiche Room {JW Marriott Miami, 1109 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.329.3500}
Share a romantic dining experience with a four-course menu for $80 per person (or $105 per person with featured wine pairings). Includes amuse bouche, Chef’s Creek Oyster, and entrée selection of Chocolate-Dusted Prime Filet or Coho Salmon. Click here for full menu.

Miami Beach

Bagatelle {221 21st Street, Miami Beach; 305.704.3900}
Order the $185 Le Sobe, which includes 16 market oysters, half an Alaskan king crab, stone crab claws, one Maine lobster, eight littleneck clams, 12 mussels, 12 shrimps, seafood ceviche, yellowfin tuna tartare, and Scottish salmon tartare. Tip: Ask for Table 203, the restaurant’s most romantic table.

Bazi

Bazi Dining Room

Bazi {1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.695.010}
Chef Michael Pirolo is offering a five-course menu for $75 per person. Start with Dressed Oysters, followed by Sweet Potato Dumplings, Shrimp and Crab Udon, and a choice of Miso-Marinated Grouper or Grass-Fed NY Strip Steak. Cap off the evening with a Molten Chocolate Bowl with passionfruit and Thai basil anglaise.

BLT Steak {The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.673.0044}
February 12-14, BLT Steak is featuring a three-course menu for $70 per person, with enticing selections such as Royal Red Shrimp Ceviche, Seared Yellowfin Tuna, Meyer Lemon Quinoa Risotto, and Raspberry Chocolate Cake. Click here for full menu.

Café des Arts {22 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.2555}
South of Fifth’s new Mediterranean café will offer a $75 menu featuring Maine Lobster Salad; a choice of Dorade Fillet or Tender Wagyu; and choice of dessert. Also includes a Love Kiss Shot (a cold shot of red beet and gin) and glass of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne. Click here for full menu.

Cleo {The Redbury Hotel, 1776 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.2536}
Enjoy a prix-fixe menu for $85 per person featuring choice of dip (hummus with tahini, cucumbers and yogurt, labneh with feta, or baba ghanoush); classic items such as the Brussels Sprouts, Spicy Cigars, Grilled Branzino, and chef’s selection of gourmet desserts. Click here for full menu.

Miami Beach Edition

Movie under the stars at the Miami Beach EDITION

EDITION Miami Beach {2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.257.4600}
Spend a romantic evening under the stars while enjoying a picnic basket for two and watching “Casablanca.” Baskets are $100 and include cheese and charcuterie, freshly baked bread, tuna tartare, gourmet popcorn, house-baked cookies, and a bottle of rosé. Movie begins at 7pm.

Jaya {The Setai, 2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 855.923.7899}
The Setai’s new restaurant will offer two five-course menus, one February 12-13 for $98 per person, and one on February 14 for $125 per person. Wine pairings are available for an additional $110 per person. Ladies receive a complimentary glass of rosé and delectable macarons. Click here for Friday and Saturday menu; click here for Sunday menu.

Katsuya {1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.455.2995}
Take a culinary journey with Chef Jose Icardi’s special family-style menu, offered Feb. 13-14 for $85 per person. Menu items include Toro Tartare, Wagyu Foie, Whole Lobster, chef’s dessert selection, and a complimentary glass of Champagne. Click here for full menu.

Standard Valentine's Day drink

2 Hearts R Better Than 1 from the Standard

Lido Restaurant at The Standard {40 Island Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.425.0990}
Be sure to order Beverage Director Amy Demoga’s specialty Champagne cocktail, 2 Hearts R Better Than 1: Veuve Clicquot Rich over ice with red pepper hearts.

Macchialina {820 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 305.534.2124}
Miami Beach’s beloved rustic Italian eatery will offer a five-course menu for $75 per person featuring dishes such as Dressed Oysters, Yellowfin Tuna Crudo, Truffled Risotto, Veal Cheek Crepinette, and Molten Chocolate Cake.

Michael Mina 74 {Fontainebleau, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.674.4636}
Spoil your loved one at the Fontainebleau’s contemporary American bistro with a lavish four-course menu for $250 per couple (add wine pairings for an additional $100). The menu can also be served in a romantic private cabana for $500 per couple. Click here for full menu.

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}
Lincoln Road’s upscale Northern Italian eatery is offering several à la carte dinner specials, including Tuna Carpaccio, Creamy Truffle Polenta, Gnocchi Pesto with Shrimp, and Rack of Lamb with beech mushroom sauce. Click here for full menu.

TiramesU {101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.532.4538}
South of Fifth’s quaint Italian eatery is offering an à la carte dinner menu. “Each dish is meant to awaken passion, through your palette,” says Chef Fabrizio Pintus. A specialty cocktail appropriately named “Valentino” includes strawberries, basil, balsamic, and Effen vodka. Click here for full menu.

Coral Gables

The Biltmore {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.445.8066 ext. 2373}
Let Executive Chef David Hackett personalize and prepare a custom menu for you within a private cabana nestled alongside the Biltmore’s world-famous pool. Four-course dinners start at $200 per person. Let the Biltmore Design Team enhance your cabana experience with flowers, live music, or special décor.

Bulla Cordonices

Bulla Cordonices con Rosas

Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables; 305.316.3631}
The Gables’ favorite gastrobar will offer a weekly à la carte Valentine’s-themed menu; highlights include Pargo a La Sal, Florida red snapper baked in salt; Codornices con Rosas, grilled semi-boneless quails; Carrilleras de Ternera Lechal, veal cheek fricassee; and Brazo Helado de Mango y Vainilla, Mango gelée roll filled with vanilla ice cream and yogurt.

Ortanique on the Mile {278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.446.7710}
Chef Cindy Hutson will host a themed cooking class on February 13 from 11:30am-2:30pm for $108 per person. Dishes include: Hearts on Fire, steamed artichoke hearts, crisp greens in a pink peppercorn Caesar, and shaved Grana Padano; Sweet Cheeks, Niman Ranch braised pork cheeks and sweet corn polenta in a cherry chipotle agave glaze; and Making Whoopie, red velvet cookie cake filled with white chocolate cream cheese icing.

And Beyond

Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale; 954.699.0901}
From 11am-3pm, couples can revel in a $50 brunch buffet that includes dishes such as Fried Chicken and Waffles, Blueberry Pancakes, and thick-cut bacon topped off with $30 bottomless rosé. For dinner, there will be a $75 prix-fixe menu with plates such as the Pumpkin Brioche, Wasabi Tuna Tartare, Mushroom Gnocchi, and a selection of desserts. Click here for full menu.

Mortons valentines

Morton’s Valentine’s Day Surf ‘n’ Turf Special

Morton’s The Steakhouse {Locations in Brickell, Coral Gables, and North Miami Beach}
February 12-14, Morton’s is offering a taste of the good life by offering diners the chance to order a succulent steak AND a cold water lobster tail with drawn butter for only $55.

Riviera Focacceria Italiana {3252 Northeast Buena Vista Boulevard, Suite 110, Midtown; 786.220.6251}
For a quiet evening at home, order Riviera’s take-home basket for a Valentine’s dinner that you and your loved one can prepare together. Baskets are $45 and include Red Shrimp Ravioli with a creamy pink peppercorn sauce, chef’s choice of dessert, and a bottle of Syltbar Rosé.

Pisco y Nazca {The Palms at Town & Country, 8405 Mills Drive, Kendall; 305.630.3844}
Treat your love to a seat at the bar to share one of the special Valentine’s Day menu items. And don’t forget to order the Noche de Pasion cocktail, a mixture of Ron Cartavio Black, passionfruit purée, vanilla cinnamon syrup, lemon juice, Garnish black cherry, and sprinkled cinnamon.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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7:57 am
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Happy New Year, Miami! 2016 promises to be an incredible year for the local culinary scene and we can’t wait to see what’s in store over the next 12 months. Here are nine of our must-do/must-try January events taking place throughout the city.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada from La Mar by Gastón Acurio


1. Healthy “Mocktails” at Mandarin Oriental
When: Ongoing
Where: Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288}
What: Keep your New Year’s resolutions going strong with creative new non-alcoholic “mocktails” made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. At MO Bar + Lounge, Steven Minor presents the Purple Plush, with a floral and sweet blend of hibiscus tea and lychee purée finished off with club soda. At La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Lef Kraounakis makes fresh daily Chicha Morada, a traditional Peruvian purple corn juice cooked with pineapple, green apples, cinnamon, and cloves, then served with a splash of lime and sugar.

2. Whites of Winter Special at Oceanaire
When: Through February 5
Where: The Oceanaire Seafood Room {900 South Miami Avenue, Suite 111, Brickell; 305.372.8862}
What: Upgrade your dining experience and sample up to four three-ounce white wines of your choosing for just $19 when you purchase an entrée. Choose from a list of 15 fine white wines from all over the world, from Napa Valley to Provence to Marlborough, New Zealand, and many more. Purchase additional pours for $5.

Chicken Parm Pizza from Quality Meats

Chicken Parm Pizza from Quality Meats


3. New Menu Items at Quality Meats
When: Ongoing
Where: Quality Meats {1501 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.340.3333}
What: Chef de Cuisine Patrick Rebholz is kicking off 2016 by adding several new dishes to his already-acclaimed menu. Perhaps the most exciting addition is the signature Chicken Parm Pizza, which is making a special “pop-up” appearance from Quality Meat’s NYC sister restaurant, Quality Italian. Intended for two people, this 14-inch chicken Parmesan topped with mozzarella, Parmesan, and pecorino is delivered on a pizza rack and sliced tableside. The dish is so popular in New York that the restaurant often runs out midway through dinner service.

4. Paella Cooking Demonstration and Dinner at Bulla
When: January 16 at 6pm
Where: Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}
What: Share your passion for paella at Bulla’s next Let’s Eat Dinner Series. After tapas on the terrace, you’ll join Chef Miguel Rebolledo in preparing authentic Spanish paella, a dish he learned at one of the world’s most famous restaurants, El Bulli. Top off the culinary experience with a flavorful feast paired with fine Spanish wine and a tantalizing dessert. Cost is $65 per person. Click here for tickets.

5. Weekly Wine (and more) Tastings at Uvaggio
When: Saturdays, 5-6pm
Where: Uvaggio Wine Bar {70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.448.2400}
What: Join Head Wine-O and Managing Partner Heath Porter for weekly fun and education wine tastings. Upcoming themes include:
January 16: Spain with an Attitude, Not Your Parents’ Rioja
January 23: Piedmont and Tuscany … an ode to the next Uvaggio wine club trip
January 30: Beers Around the World … from the USA and Belgium, to our own backyard
Tastings are limited to just 24 people, so it’s best to reserve your space in advance. For more information, contact [email protected] or call 305.448.2400.

Fried Chicken and Waffles Hyde Beach Kitchen

Fried Chicken and Waffles from Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails

6. Waves and Rosé Brunch at Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails
When: Every Sunday
Where: Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901}
What: Hallandale’s newest hot spot is now offering a sweet-meets-savory brunch menu featuring delicious comfort dishes such as the Hang Over Burger, Banana Nutella Waffles, and Very Berry French Toast. In addition to the mouthwatering fare, you’ll never go thirsty with bottomless Whispering Angel rosé for just $30 a person.

7. Wine Dinner at Fontana at the Biltmore
When: January 21 at 7pm
Where: Fontana at the Biltmore {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 877.624.2830}
What: Take part in an enchanting, seated, four-course wine dinner hosted by Wine Director Christophe Bristiel with wine from Chateau La Nerthe in Rhone Valley, France, sponsored in part by Pasternak Wine Imports. Cost is $45 for members, $55 for guests.

Chef Cindy Hutson

Chef Cindy Hutson

8. A Taste of Jamaica Cooking Class with Chef Cindy Hutson
When: January 23, 11:30am-2:30pm
Where: Ortanique on the Mile {278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.446.7710}
What: Join Chef Cindy Hutson for an interactive cooking class featuring staples of Jamaican cuisine: Guinness-Braised Shredded Oxtail on a crispy cassava cake; Red Snapper Rundown with boiled green banana mash and Caribbean veggies; and Drunken Banana “Stamp and Go” Fritters with rum-raisin ice cream and salted caramel. Cost is $108 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by emailing [email protected].

9. Fontainebleau’s Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series
When: January 23 at 8pm
Where: StripSteak by Michael Mina {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}
What: The Cellar 1954 Wine and Dinner Series pairs the world’s most prestigious wines and winemakers with the award-winning cuisine of the Fontainebleau’s signature restaurants. The 2016 season kicks off with a five-course meal prepared by StripSteak Chef de Cuisine Derrick Roberts. Each course will be complemented by a different variety from the Napa Valley winery, Darioush, hosted by proprietor Darioush Khaledi. Cost is $225 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by clicking here.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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10:50 am
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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

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7:49 am
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The holiday season is just around the corner. But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be celebrating in the meantime. Here’s a look at nine of the top events taking place in Miami this November—until Thanksgiving. We’ll have an entirely new roundup for you then.

fontainebleau frank sinatra
1. StripSteak and Jack Daniel’s Celebrate Frank Sinatra
When: November 11 at 8pm
Where: StripSteak by Michael Mina {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.674.4780}
What: The Fontainebleau continues its celebration of Frank Sinatra and his upcoming centennial birthday with a special five-course dinner at StripSteak hosted by Chef Michael Mina himself highlighting some of Ol’ Blue Eyes’ favorite dishes paired with specialty Jack Daniel’s cocktails. Click here for reservations.

2. Ortanique on the Mile Charity Wine Dinner
When: November 11 at 7pm
Where: Ortanique on the Mile {278 Miracle Mile Coral Gables; 305.446.7710}
What: Join Chef Cindy Hutson and Delius Shirley for Ortanique on the Mile’s second-annual Charity Wine Dinner benefiting The Learning Experience School, which supports children and young adults with developmental disabilities. The special five-course meal will begin with a Champagne reception with passed hors d’oeuvres and will feature wines by Far Niente, EnRoute, and Dolce. Space is limited; call TLC at 305.546.2315 or email [email protected] to reserve your tickets.

Flying with the stars3. Flying with the Stars with Salumeria 104 and Midtown Oyster Bar
When: November 11-12, 7-11pm
Where: Former Al Capone Mansion {93 Palm Avenue, Palm Island}
What: The second-annual Flying with the Stars will be two nights of six-course wine-paired menus curated by acclaimed Milan-based Italian chefs Alberto Buratti, Claudio Francesco Ceriotti, and Luigi Taglienti in collaboration with Chef Angelo Masarin of Salumeria 104 and Midtown Oyster Bar. The first evening will focus on Midtown Oyster Bar’s sea-based menu, while the second evening will focus on Salumeria 104’s land-based concept. The dinners will feature silent auctions, all in support of the Miami Children’s Health Foundation. Click here to purchase tickets.

4. A Night with the Winemakers at Wine by the Bay
When: November 12 at 7pm
Where: Wine By the Bay {888 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 112, Downtown; 305.455.9791}
What: Join Wine By the Bay for a special night with iconic Italian winemakers Ettore Germano (whose family has owned and cultivated land in the Barolo region since 1856) and Silvia Piaggia (a cult winemaker from Carmignano, Tuscany). The duo will answer questions and share their wines with some of Chef Daniele Cosmo’s amazing creations. Planned pairings include Il Sasso, Carmignano 2013 paired with mini croissants with speck, Brie, arucola, and truffle sauce; and Barolo Serralunga 2011 paired with risotto with Taleggio cheese and truffle. Seating is limited. Click here to purchase tickets.

Lef Kraounakis

Lef Kraounakis

5. Thursday Happy Hour at La Mar
When: Every Thursday, 4-7pm
Where: La Mar by Gastón Acurio {Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358}
What: Celebrated for its unparalleled Peruvian cuisine and lively bar scene, Mandarin Oriental’s bay-front Peruvian restaurant has launched a sophisticated weekly happy hour under the supervision of Eleftherios “Lef” Kraounakis, who was recently appointed head of the restaurant’s expanded nightlife program. The new happy hour offers $8 creative cocktails, including traditional and flavored Pisco Sours; $6 wine and beers; and light bites such as Cebiche Criollo, Anticucho Chicken, Empanadas, and Pan con Chicharron for just $8 each. A live DJ will also playing music from the bar’s superior sound system.

WATER PARTY MIA 2015 FB Post[4]
6. Fifth-Annual Water Party MIA
When: November 13, 6-10pm
Where: Four Seasons Miami {1435 Brickell Avenue, Brickell}
What: Join Bulla Gastrobar and soon-to-be-opened Pisco Y Nazca for a special fundraising event in honor of Global Water Brigades, an international, nonprofit organization constructing clean water systems in Nicaragua, Honduras, and Ghana. The goal of the event is to raise $12,500 to benefit the community of El Hatillo, Nicaragua, which is home to 67 families in need of a clean water supply. The minimum donation of $35 in advance will entitle each guest to endless cocktails by various beverage sponsors and savory bites from Bulla Gastrobar and Pisco y Nasca. The night will include music, a silent auction, and more. Click here to purchase tickets.

7. Weekend Lunch at Michael Mina 74
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, Noon-6pm
Where: Michael Mina 74 {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.674.4636}
What: The Fontainebleau’s signature American restaurant is now open for lunch on the weekends with a daytime menu featuring an array of starters, selections from the fresh seafood bar, and the restaurant’s award-winning burgers, including the classic Dry-Aged Steak Burger, the Heritage Turkey Burger, and the Prime Beef Crunch Burger, which is topped with double-smoked bacon, pimento cheese, peanut butter, and potato chips.

8. Sunday Brunch at Tamarina
When: Every Sunday (starting November 22) 11am-6pm (buffet open until 3pm)
Where: Tamarina Restaurant {600 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.770.6223}
What: Tamarina officially launches its Sunday brunch, which will feature all-you-can-eat buffet of breakfast and lunch staples accompanied by live music and all-you-can-drink specials. Expect to find made-to-order omelettes, pancakes, waffles, and crêpes; an American station featuring corned beef hash and roast beef; a fresh salad bar; a grill station featuring steak and eggs and pork ribs; an Italian station with frittatas, charcuterie, and homemade pizzas; a seafood station with oysters, shrimp, and smoked salmon; and a variety of freshly baked breakfast pastries, muffins, and scones; and much more.

Seed Food & Wine9. SEED Food & Wine Festival
When: November 18-22; Grand Tasting November 21
Where: Grand Tasting at MANA Wynwood {318 Northwest 23rd Street, Wynwood}
What: The second-annual SEED Food & Wine Festival, the nation’s only plant-based food and wine experience, will be a five-day festival featuring upscale dinners, film screenings, garden parties, and a Southern brunch, all leading up to a large-scale outdoor festival and grand tasting on Saturday, November 21, from 11am-6pm, with food, wine, juices, music, gifts, organic body care, clothing, yoga, and everything that celebrates conscious plant-based living. For more information, visit seedfoodandwine.com.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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8:01 am
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march of dimes signature chefs

2014 Miami Signature Chefs Auction

October is a month for giving back, and we can’t be more thrilled to once again be supporting the March of Dimes and its premier fundraising event of the year: the Miami Signature Chefs Auction.

On Thursday, October 29, elite corporate and social leaders from the Greater Miami area will gather at the Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables for a fabulous culinary soiree in support of the March of Dimes, the largest and most respected maternal-child health organization in the world.

Did you know that every year, more than 15 million babies are born prematurely, and as a result, a million will die before their first birthday? Through generous donations, the March of Dimes is able to improve the health of babies by preventing premature birth, infant mortality, and birth defects through research, advocacy, and community programs on the local, state, and national levels.

March of Dimes Signature Chefs

2014 Miami Signature Chefs Auction

For the 18th-annual Miami Signature Chefs Auction presented by GOYA, 17 chefs from some of Miami’s top restaurants will serve up tastes of their favorite dishes as guests mingle and bid on exclusive items in a silent auction. This will be followed by a sit-down dessert and live auction, where guests can also bid on additional dining experiences, travel, and more.

Along with Ambassador Culinary Chair David Sears of SushiSamba, this year’s participating chefs include: Brad Kilgore of Alter, David Blonsky of Apeiro, Wolfgang Birk of Area 31, Tim Andriola of Basil Park, Brian Nasajon of Beaker & Gray, Diego Solano of Bulla Gastrobar, Santiago Gomez of Cantina La Veinte, Rod Chitikov of Devon Seafood + Steak, Aaron Brooks of EDGE Steak & Bar, Fernando Desa of GOYA, Phil Bryant of The Local Craft Food and Drink, Sean Brasel of Meat Market, Kareem Anguin of The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Angelina Bastidas of Piripi, Adonay Tafur of The Dutch, and Eric Do of Toro Toro.

March of Dimes Signature Chefs

2014 Miami Signature Chefs Auction

“People love the Signature Chefs Auction because they get to enjoy a variety of delicious dishes from our signature chefs,” says Event Chair J.C. de Ona, senior vice president at Stonegate Bank. “And at the same time, they have the satisfaction of knowing that they’re helping the March of Dimes in its mission to ensure that all babies are born stronger, healthier, and full term.”

March of Dimes Signature Chefs

NBC 6’s Jackie Nespral at the 2014 Miami Signature Chefs Auction

Additional community leaders in support of the event include: celebrity spokesperson and emcee Jackie Nespral of NBC 6, Auction Chair Rafael Feliz Jr. of Premier Worldwide Marketing, Larry Carrino of Brustman Carrino Public Relations, Alexis C. Knapp of Rockaway PR, Erin Knight of Stonegate Bank, and Aubrey Swanson of AUBOOM Media.

March of Dimes Signature Chefs

2014 Miami Signature Chefs Auction

Other event sponsors include: Florida Yachts International, the Latin American Agribusiness Development Corporation (LAAD), Marjorie Raines, MSP Recovery, Bank of America, BankUnited, Cherry Bekaert, Karisma Hotels & Resorts, Leader Global Solutions, MacMillan Oil Company, Prestige Companies, Stonegate Bank, Trujillo & Sons, Turner Construction, Wells Fargo, Future Energy Solutions, National Health Transport, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, NBC 6, Telemundo 51, and, yours truly, DiningOut Miami.

Another important component of the Signature Chefs Auction is Fund the Mission, an opportunity for everyone to make a donation to the March of Dimes. Each gift is 100-percent tax-deductible and helps the foundation carry out its mission. Those interested in making a Fund the Mission donation can give online here or mail a check to the March of Dimes Miami Office: {8323 Northwest 12th Street, Suite 208, Miami, FL 33126}.

march of dimes signature chefs

The 18th-annual Miami Signature Chefs Auction presented by GOYA will take place on Thursday, October 29, from 6:30-9:30pm at the Westin Colonnade Coral Gables {180 Aragon Avenue}. Click here for more information.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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9:01 am
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march of dimes signature chefs

Dozens of fundraising events take place in Miami throughout the year, but the upcoming Signature Chefs Auction benefiting the March of Dimes is one of our all-time favorites. Accompanied by a silent auction, chefs from some of the top local restaurants will serve up samplings of their favorite dishes. This will be followed by a sit-down dessert and live auction, where guests can bid on exclusive dining experiences, travel, and more.

Proceeds from the 2015 Signature Chefs Auction will allow March of Dimes to further its mission through research and community programs to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. The 18th-annual Signature Chefs Auction presented by GOYA will take place on Thursday, October 29, from 6:30-9:30pm at the Westin Colonnade Coral Gables. 

We had the chance to catch up with participating Chef Diego Solano of Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107} to discuss giving back to the local community and what he has in store for the upcoming event.

DiegoSolano2

DiningOut: We last spoke in April. What has been going on at Bulla? Have there been any additions to the menu?
Chef Diego Solano: Yes, we actually created several new lunch, brunch, and dinner items that we are very excited about! These include the Bikini and the Garbanzo Frito [brunch], the Arroz Negro con Pulpo and the Solomillo de Cerdo with beer sauce [lunch], and the Coca de Frutas [dessert].

You talked about plans for opening a new concept, Pisco y Nazca. How is the project coming along?
Pisco y Nazca will be opening late October at The Palms at Town and Country in Kendall. It will definitely set a new standard for Peruvian cuisine in South Florida. This concept will show the passion we have for hospitality and pioneering amazing cuisine.

Tell us about Bulla’s involvement with local charities.
We are always enthusiastic when it comes to helping our community through events that bring awareness to local and national charities. It goes back to our roots in hospitality, as it truly makes us feel great when we take care of others. Giving back to the community is both an honor and a privilege.

At the moment, we are participating in the No Kid Hungry campaign, where each diner at our restaurant donates a certain percentage to the cause for the month of September.

What about the March of Dimes specifically drew you to the Signature Chefs Auction?
Children are the future, so we saw a real value in helping the March of Dimes organization.

You have so many amazing dishes on your menu. How do you even begin to decide what you want to serve at an event like this?
When creating new dishes, we always strive to present food that really showcases our style of cuisine and that represents our brand.

What is the dish you plan on preparing for the upcoming event?
We will be serving Insalada de Pulpo with heirloom tomatoes, grilled octopus, and cucumber.

Will Bulla have any auction items up for bid?
Yes. We are auctioning off a four-course wine pairing where I will cook my own created dishes and Joel Mesa, our mixologist, will assist in choosing the wines.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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