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Home / Posts Tagged "coral gables"

10:49 pm
Tips and Trends
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In an effort to prevent the spread of Coronavirus disease–COVID-19–the world is respecting the social distancing practice and staying home. Like in other cities around the world, a great portion of the Miami food and drink scene remains open only for delivery, takeout, and pickup. As these are hard times especially in the hospitality world, we strongly encourage you all to support the local businesses and restaurants in your area. That’s why we prepared this roundup of restaurants, which are still open for takeout and delivery, grouped by major areas. Stay home and stay healthy!

Miami Beach

The Alley at the Betsy Hotel

The Alley at the Betsy Hotel in South Beach offers delivery, curbside pickup, and takeout. Along with their menu, to-go beers, half-off wine, and pre-batched cocktails are available. Check out their menu here and order on UberEats or Postmates. For more information and the restaurant’s takeout menu, you can visit their website or call them at (305) 673-0044.

Bodega

Bodega is open for delivery and takeout from 11:30 am to midnight. You can order on their website and receive 20 percent discount with code WFH.

Cafe Prima Pasta

Cafe Prima Pasta is offering take out orders from 12 pm to 10 pm everyday. The Italian restaurant is offering two types of family meals that can feed six or more people). 414 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Fratelli La Bufala

Fratelli La Bufala is offering takeout and delivery, starting at noon. Delivery is available through UberEats, DoorDash, Postmates and GrubHub. 437 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Lilikoi: Vegan and Gluten-free Food Delivered

Get the healthy food you love and enjoy delivered to your doorstep from Lilikoi, which is open for takeout and delivery. You can order directly from the restaurant’s website. 500 South Pointe Drive, Miami, FL – (305) 763-8692

Market at EDITION: From Breakfast to Dinner

Although Matador Room is temporarily closed during the coronavirus crises, Market at EDITION remains open from 7 am to 10 pm for takeout. 2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (786) 257-4600

Nobu Miami: When You Get That Nobu Craving

Nobu Miami - Takeout and Pickup
Nobu Miami

It’s hard to give up on Nobu and there’s no need to. Nobu Miami is open for takeout from 5 to 9 pm. 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 695-3232

Prime 112

Myles Chefetz’ Miami Beach steakhouse, Prime 112 is now available on Postmates. You can also order directly by calling (305) 532-8112, available daily from 11 am to 11 pm. 112 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL

Pubbelly: 10% Off Delivery, Takeout and Pickup

With four locations in Miami Beach, Brickell, Dadeland, and Aventura, Pubbelly is open for delivery and pickup orders. You can save 10% on your order total, when you order via phone or their website. 1424 20th Street Miami Beach, FL

Pura Vida: Keep Your Immune System Strong

With four locations around the city in South Beach, Coral Gables, Edgewater, and Design District, Pura Vida continues to serve Miamians with healthy meals, snacks, and juices. Search for Pura Vida on UberEats for delivery. 110 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 535-4142

Sardinia: Mediterranean Delicacies, Delivered

One of our favorite Mediterranean restaurants in Miami Beach, Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante is open for delivery and takeout from noon to 3 pm with their lunch menu and from 6 pm to 9 pm with their dinner menu. 1801 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 531-2228

Stubborn Seed: Treat Yourself

When you find yourself dreaming about Stubborn Seed’s amazing offerings, pick the phone up and order that plate you love and don’t forget the snickerdoodle cookies. Check out their menu online. 101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (786) 322-5211

Wynwood and Midtown

Coyo Taco

All Coyo Taco menu items will be available for pickup and delivery via Uber Eats, Postmates, GrubHub, and Door Dash. 2300 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL

Le Chick: Eat Something Chic

One of Wynwood’s thriving restaurants, Le Chick remains open for delivery and takeout. Give them a call and use your favorite delivery app. 310 NW 24th Str, Miami, FL – (786) 216 7086

Love Life: Stay Healthy

Plant-based and vegan, Love Life‘s offerings should be your go-to for to-go orders these days. The Wynwood restaurant operates from 11 am to 9 pm for takeout and deliveries. Search for them on your favorite delivery app. 2616 NW 5th Avenue, Miami, FL – (305) 456 4148

Pamela Wasabi Bakery - Vegan and Gluten-free Baked Goods - Delivery
Pamela Wasabi Bakery

Pamela Wasabi Bakery: Eat More Beauty

Pamela Wasabi continues shipping her gluten-free and vegan delicacies through her website. You can get free shipping on orders over $35 using code LOVE at checkout. www.pamelawasabi.com

Downtown, Brickell, and Little Havana

All Day Mia

A popular coffee shop in Downtown, All Day Mia is now offering delivery and takeout along with locally sourced grocery items through alldayaway.com. The Downtown spot also launched a relief fund for food and beverage workers. Check that out here.

Alloy Bistro: 50% Off Wine 

Alloy Bistro - Delivery and Takeout in Downtown Miami
Alloy Bistro

Located in Downtown, Alloy Bistro is offering 50% off wine along with its Mediterranean delicacies. The restaurant is open for delivery and takeout from 5 pm to 9 pm. You can find the restaurant on UberEats as well. 154 SE 1st Avenue, Miami, FL – (786) 773-2742

Ella’s Oyster Bar

A seafood destination in Little Havana, Ella’s Oyster Bar is open for curbside and takeout orders. You can check out their menu here and order by phone at (786) 332-4436.

Ironside Pizza

Ironside Pizza will be offering a limited menu for takeout from noon to 9 pm, as well as delivering through third-party vendors such as UberEats, Postmates, GrubHub and DoorDash. The pizzeria also offers pizza-making kits for more adventurous pizza lovers. The ten-dollar kit comes with dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, and flour and the 13-inch pizza can serve four to eight slices. 7580 NE 4th Court, Miami, FL 33138

Seaspice: Pick Up From The Dock and Curbside

Situated on the beautiful Miami River, Seaspice remains open for curbside pickups and pickups by yacht Friday through Sunday between noon and 8 pm. 422 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL – (305) 440-4200

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse

Located in Downtown, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse now offers takeout and delivery through the restaurant. 315 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL

Little Haiti and MiMo

Boia De

A popular spot in Little Haiti, Boia De is offering takeout and delivery Monday through Saturday from noon to 8 pm until further notice. You can place your order online here or call them at (305) 967-8866.

Phuc Yea

Phuc Yea is also open for delivery and takeout. The restaurant accepts order on their website starting at 6 pm. Use code CORONA10 for 10 percent discount on orders.

Key Biscayne

Costa Med: Delivery Only

Key Biscayne’s stellar Mediterranean restaurant, Costa Med is open for delivery orders from noon to 8 pm. 260 Crandon Blvd #46, Key Biscayne, FL – (305) 361-7575

Kazumi: Your Favorite Rolls, Delivered

Kazumi - Delivery in Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne residents can still enjoy their favorite rolls from Kazumi. The restaurant remains open only for deliveries from noon to 8:30 pm. 260 Crandon Blvd #16, Key Biscayne, FL – (305) 361-2675

The Rusty Pelican

The Rusty Pelican is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12:30 to 6 pm with a limited menu. Curbside pickups are available through Whiskey Joe’s restaurant, located next door.

Coconut Grove

Ariete

A popular spot in Coconut Grove, Ariete is offering curbside pickup and delivery from 3 to 8 pm. You can check out their menu on Instagram account and order by calling (786) 615-3747.

Chug’s Diner

Chug’s Diner remains open for delivery and takeout along with grocery items from 8 am to 5 pm. Check out their instagram for bodega menu. You can call (786) 534-8722 to order.

Coral Gables 

Zucca: Authentic Italian At Home

Satisfy your cravings for Italian food by ordering from Zucca in Coral Gables. The restaurant is open for delivery and curbside pickup. 162 Alcazar Avenue, Coral Gables, FL – (786) 580-3731

Don’t forget to check out the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (GMCVB) new initiative, Miami Eats to see more restaurants operating with delivery and takeout.

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10:09 am
Restaurant Features
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Consider your search for the perfect Italian restaurant with fully-stocked wine bar finito

Cibo Wine Bar {45 Miracle Mile, Miami; 305.442.4925}

Did we hear you say it’s hard to find an Italian restaurant with a good selection of wine? Your search is over. In the middle of Miracle Mile—the hip main strip in Coral Gables—Cibo Wine Bar is just the Italian you want, need, and deserve. With its large dining room, floor-to-ceiling wine cellar, and fresh and tasty Italian dishes, Cibo never disappoints.

Italian chef Massimo Giannattasio’s carefully curated menu boasts classic starters such as Burrata, House Made Focaccia, and Prosciutto & Formaggio every diner is looking for in an Italian restaurant. The fresh, housemade pasta selection is rich with every type of Italian excellence your heart desires, like the Cannelloni with spinach, aged ricotta, and rosé sauce. Among the mains, dishes like the Trota Alla Griglia with lemon caper sauce, baby squash, and fava bean ragu or Pesce del Giorno (oven-baked Mediterranean branzino) are must-haves for fans of fresh fish. And for those who are in need of a break from American pizza, there are a plethora of Italian pizzas to choose from.

Extensive Wine List

Bringing together a wide variety from Italy, France, and domestic labels, the extensive wine list has a bottle or glass to pair with every dish on the menu. The eye-catching wine cellar sits out in the open of the restaurant, adding one more layer to the inviting decor.

Cibo Wine Bar, Coral Gables

If this is not an established fact, we’d like to make it one: you cannot leave an Italian restaurant without tasting the dessert. Period. Cibo is no exception. Make sure you order their Tiramisu or Panna Cotta before you ask for the check.

Perfect for celebration

Cibo Wine Bar’s large main dining area is filled with long tables and booths surrounded by good lighting and tasteful decor, making the restaurant perfect for celebrating with friends and family. Reserve a spot for your next birthday bash or family gathering. Private dining rooms are also available for those interested.

If you’re not in the mood for a sit-down dinner, the bar in the middle of the restaurant is the perfect spot to have a taste of Cibo and try their signature cocktails. The full bar is stocked with premium liquor and the skilled bartenders are at your service.

Overall, the Coral Gables restaurant is a prime destination for Italian food lovers. With Lobster Tuesdays, happy hour with live DJs on Thursdays, and Sunday brunch with Italian bubbles, there’s always a reason to visit Cibo.

By Caner Kocamaz | Staff Writer

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8:46 pm
Restaurant Features
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jarra-sangria-peruana
When it comes to Peruvian food and drink, no one does it better than Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar {8405 Mills Drive, Miami; 305.630.3844}. Brought to you by the talented team behind Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}, this popular chain puts a modern twist on traditional Peruvian favorites, serving up different anticuchos and causas, lomo saltado, parihuela and innovative ceviches like jalapeño, rocoto, ají Amarillo, passion fruit and more. After the success of its first Kendall location, which opened in late 2015, Pisco y Nazca opened a second location in Doral in June 2016.
Catering to Miami’s summer temperatures, Pisco y Nazca recently added new refreshing drinks and specials to its daily “Hora Loca” happy hour and weekend brunch. Along with the locale’s signature Peruvian cocktails, diners can now stay cool with one of three Peruvian Sangria Pitchers: El Shandy, Sangria Peruana, or Sangria Brava.
For a taste of these sweet sippers, head to either location during weekend brunch or Hora Loca, which runs from 5 to 7 p.m. daily. Go during the latter and order one of each pitcher… rumor has it they’re 50% off.
Happy dining!
By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

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10:54 am
Restaurant Features
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1786

Renderings, Coral Gables “Streetscape” Project

As life often teaches us, you’ve got to take the good with the bad. So when beautiful Miracle Mile and Downtown Coral Gables started construction for the highly-anticipated “Streetscape” project—which will renovate Coral Gables’ public works systems, sidewalks, and landscaping and turn it into a destination location—affected restaurants had to face the reality that their streets would be closed-off to cars for weeks. Fortunately, the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, the City of Coral Gables, and other partnering organizations have come up with a way to support these restaurants while simultaneously indulging in good company and great food: an activation initiative called DineOut!

Launched to get community members to do just that, DineOut! encourages Coral Gables residents and employees to show their love for the affected restaurants by dining at them during their lunch breaks. A re-boot of a successful 2009 program, when the Chamber wanted to stimulate tourism after 9/11 and during the Great Recession, this activation project will not only support the restaurants themselves, but will deter any notion that they’re closed during construction. To bring it to a reality, leaders of the initiative are urging businesspeople to host breakfast meetings and dinner appointments over lunch, move date-nights up to lunchtime, and switch their weekend plans to take friends and family, colleagues, and co-workers out to lunch on Miracle Mile and its surrounding streets.

Having kicked-off on Wednesday, July 13th, and continuing weekly through summer, DineOut! is already off to a great start. And you can do it, too! So where should you go when you join the fun? Some of our favorite spots include: The Local Craft Food and Drink {150 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.648.5687}, Bulla {2500 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}, Cibo Restaurant and Wine Bar {45 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.442.4925}, Ortanique {278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.446.7710}, and Talavera Cocina Mexicana {2299 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.444.2955}.

And when the construction is all over, Coral Gables businesses and residents are excited to see the change and beauty the Streetscape project will inevitably bring. “Miracle Mile is Coral Gables’ ‘Main Street,'” says Mark A. Trowbridge, President and CEO of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. “In the end, we’re putting the ‘miracle’ back in Miracle Mile.”

See you there, diners!

By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor

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2:04 pm
Restaurant Features
0

Halloween is creeping up on us faster than you can say “trick or treat” five times fast. Here’s a breakdown of this weekend’s top events.

Friday, October 30

biltmore halloweenFrom 8pm-midnight, the Biltmore Hotel {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3230} hosts its annual Halloween party featuring an open bar, buffet dinner, and entertainment. Don’t miss out on the costume contest with great prizes for most creative (must be handmade), spookiest, and best couple. Members $100; nonmembers $125; RSVP required.

Starting at 8pm, Piripi {320 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.448.2423} will shut down San Lorenzo Avenue for its Noche de Duende Masquerade Bash featuring flamenco, tapas, cocktails, live music, and more. The night will also include cocktail specials and a bewitching hour-inspired prix-fixe dinner menu. Tickets: General admission $25; VIP $50; click here to purchase.

STK HalloweenFrom 7-10pm, STK Miami {2311 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.604.6988} will host a themed night featuring a two-hour open bar “Boos and Booze” package for just $50. Engage in the enchanting magic of Halloween and dress to impress, with prizes awarded to the best costumes and a special performance by Nu Deco Ensemble’s Peter White.

Saturday, October 31

From 11am-5pm, join Brasserie Azur {3252 Northeast First Avenue, Midtown; 786.800.9993} for Halloween brunch, featuring $25 unlimited mimosas for two hours. Bring the kids from for games, face-painting, balloons, cotton candy, a live magic show, and more. Then, head over to sister restaurant Villa Azur {309 23rd Street, Miami Beach; 305.763.8688} for an adults-only Halloween party featuring music by DJ Stephan M.

12087214_673408396128529_2116532048617010515_oGet ready for a night of DJs, drinks, food trunks, and $500 costume contest at Hallowyn, Wynwood’s FREE Halloween block party. The event kicks off at 7pm at the Mana Production Lot {318 Northwest 23rd Street}. Throughout the night, a 240-inch jumbo screen LED TV will be playing  the best Halloween videos of all time, including a special screening of ”The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 10pm.

Segafredo HalloweenFrom 5pm-2am, Lenox Avenue will be closed for Segafredo Espresso l’Originale’s {1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.673.0047} 15th annual Halloween party. Two remote bars will be set up in addition to Segafredo’s permanent inside bar, and a fantastic lineup of DJs is scheduled to play. A limited food menu will also be available.

Also on Lincoln Road, Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833} will offer a special four-course prix-fixe dinner, where guests can delight in a selection of the restaurant’s finest dishes while admiring the costumes, trick-or-treaters, and holiday fanfare along Lincoln Road. Outdoor tables are $110 per person; inside tables $65 per person.

Hyde Beach HalloweenFrom 7pm-midnight Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901} is getting into the Halloween spirit by offering guests FREE access to its Haunted Beach Bar, located on the first floor. Enjoy ghoulish sounds by DJ YSL while watching scary movies right on the sand. A popcorn cart, massive candy bar, and specialty drinks will also be available all night long.

Morton’s The Steakhouse {multiple locations} is offering a three-course dinner for just $35 featuring entrée selections such as 6oz Filet Mignon, Honey-Chile Glazed Salmon, and Chicken Bianco. The restaurant will also offer an extended happy hour from 5pm-close.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room {900 South Miami Avenue, Brickell; 305.372.8862} is offering a three-course dinner for two PLUS a bottle of wine for just $60. They are also serving happy hour all night in the bar.

basement halloween 2015Starting at 11pm, Basement at the Miami Beach EDITION {2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.641.7119} will host its first-annual Halloween party, “Into the Jungle,” featuring DJs Cosmo Baker, Brett Sylvia, and DJ Spiff. Tickets are $20; click here to purchase.

Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200} gears up to celebrate Halloween with a two-day event around the theme “Dia de los Muertos.” On Saturday, the hot spot will transform into a goulish haven on the river for its invitation-only Day of the Dead Halloween Ball, with Modern Garden serving as an offering altar filled with flowers to honor those who have passed. Guests will indulge in Champagne, specialty cocktails, and delicious bites throughout the evening.

Sunday, November 1

But the Halloween fun doesn’t stop there! On Sunday, November 1, from noon-6pm the celebration continues at Seaspice with LVMH and Veuve Cliquot for Dia de los Muertos Sunday brunch, featuring live music, photo booths, makeup artists, models, Champagne, giveaways, and more.

By Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor

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8:54 am
Restaurant Features
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biltmore hotel

The sprawling Biltmore Hotel in the heart of Coral Gables has long been an iconic landmark for the City Beautiful, wowing locals and visitors alike with its classic Mediterranean charm and unapologetic Old-World opulence. It comes as no surprise then that the hotel’s signature restaurant, Palme d’Or {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3201}, is equally esteemed and mesmerizing.

Palme d’Or is Miami’s longest-running fine French restaurant; and in a city like Miami where restaurants come and go faster than rush hour traffic on I-95, it’s comforting to know that there exists a tried-and-true establishment of impeccable quality that consistently disproves the idea that “newer equals better.”

palme dor biltmore

But just because this AAA Five-Diamond award-winning gem has been around for more than 15 years doesn’t mean that the food, service, or ambience is outdated. Michelin-starred French-born Chef Gregory Pugin, who was trained in France, says that although he likes to prepare classic dishes, he always adds a twist of modernity to them.

Chef Gregory Pugin

Chef Gregory Pugin

Be forewarned: There is no à la carte menu at Palme d’Or; tables instead must agree on a tasting menu. Four, six, and eight-course prix-fixe options are available, and the selections available within each menu differ slightly and change by season. And don’t come if you’re in a hurry. The point is to sit back, relax, and embark on a culinary journey of pure French elegance. Perfect for a celebration or a romantic evening for two, this is elaborate gourmet dining at its finest, so come with an open mind and be prepared to have your senses reawakened.

On a recent visit to the restaurant, DiningOut was treated to the eight-course menu, specially selected by Chef Pugin himself. The sensory experience that unfolded from beginning to end was nothing short of magical. Here’s a look at Chef Pugin’s dishes.

The succession of courses began with L’Oursin et Langoustine (sea urchin custard and poached langoustine with golden osetra caviar and Granny Smith apple gelée).

sea urchin

L’Oursin et Langoustine

Next up: La Terrine de Foie Gras (red wine-poached foie gras terrine with Sauternes marinated grapes and red wine apple purée, served with fresh cranberry bread), followed by Le Crab Royale d’Alaska (Champagne-poached king crab with fennel purée and bouillabaisse) and Le Ris de Veau (sweetbread with saffron pasta, carbonara sauce, and veal jus).

Foie Gras

La Terrine de Foie Gras

king crab biltmore palme d'or

Le Crab Royale d’Alaska

At this point, we’d lost count as to which course we were on, but the extravagance continued with Le Cabillaud d’Alaska (curcuma oil-infused Alaskan black cod with compressed purple potatoes, baby leeks, and a lemongrass coconut sauce) and Le Selle de Chevreuil (chartreuse-marinated venison with red wine pears, nuts, cranberries, and blue cheese with a Grand-Veneur sauce served with a side of spätzle).

black cod biltmore palme d'or

Le Cabillaud d’Alaska

As we headed for the home stretch, we enjoyed a small cheese selection, which was followed by dessert: Le Kir Royal à la Framboise (raspberry kir royal, Champagne, raspberry sorbet, and joconde) and Le Citron Surprise (a tart lemon-shaped concoction of lemon mousse, lemon sorbet, crispy yogurt, and white chocolate).

dessert palme d'or

Le Kir Royal a la Framboise

And just when we thought things were winding down, we were presented with an enormous chocolate selection to seal the deal.

chocolates

Two hours, eight courses, and eight paired glasses of wine later (don’t worry, not every glass was finished), we left Palme d’Or with a feeling of utter euphoria. Our servers were friendly, knowledgeable, and on-point from beginning to end. Never once did we have to ask for anything, and the courses were perfectly timed down to a science–just enough time to enjoy and digest each course but never lagging in tempo.

In conclusion: Palme d’Or exceeded all of our expectations, upholding the culinary excellence for which it is known. And it’s here for the long haul.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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10:10 am
Culinary Personalities
0

Chef Cindy Hutson

We always love when local chefs are recognized, and we couldn’t be happier for Chef Cindy Hutson of Ortanique on the Mile {278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gabels; 305.446.7710}, who is being honored tomorrow evening during Les Dames d’Escoffier Miami’s annual gala at the Mandarin Oriental Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell}.

For over 16 years, Hutson has dazzled diners with her creative and inspired “cuisine of the sun,” which fuses tropical ingredients and classic culinary techniques into a flavorful and innovative modern cuisine.

Hosted by FOX Channel 7 newscaster Belkys Nerey, the event will not only honor Huston, but will also celebrate the Miami chapter’s 15th anniversary. The evening will include Champagne, canapés, an elegant three-course meal, entertainment, and auction items.

All profits go to Les Dames d’Escoffier, a service organization comprised of distinguished women leaders in food, wine, hospitality, and farming that is dedicated improving nutrition, education, and quality of life in local communities.

Tickets for the event still available and can be purchased by clicking here. For more information, visit LesDamesDinner.com.

By Sherri Balefsky | Online Editor 

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9:01 am
Restaurant Features
0

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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8:22 am
Restaurant Features
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As September continues to sizzle thanks to Miami Spice, which is in full swing through the end of the month (click here for some of our top picks), there are a number of other events this month worthy of your attention. Here’s some more events and activities to look forward to.

1. “Snail Social” Happy Hour Series Kickoff
When: Tuesday, September 8, 6-8pm
Where: Vagabond Restaurant & Bar {7301 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami; 786.409.5635}
What: Join local nonprofit Slow Food Miami, along with Miami chefs, producers, and food supporters, as it kicks off this season’s “Snail Social” happy hour series. Guests will enjoy special happy hour prices on signature bites and cocktails, while they discuss the latest in local food culture with those leading the charge. Admission is free and open to the public. The series continues on the second Tuesday of every month through June 2016.

Chef Cindy Hutson

Chef Cindy Hutson

2. Interactive Cooking Class with Chef Cindy Hutson
When: Saturday, September 12, 11:30am-2:30pm
Where: Ortanique on the Mile {278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.446.7710}
What: Join Ortanique on the Mile’s celebrated Chef Cindy Hutson as she teaches how to cook some of her all-time favorite dishes. In this hands-on experience, limited to just 24 people, participants will be teamed up in groups of eight, with a chef at each table to guide them through their lesson. Everyone will take home a gift along with a recipe booklet of what they prepared that day. This month’s recipes include: Baby Gulf Shrimp Salad, New Zealand Lamb Korma, and Putting on the Ritz Pie. Cost is $108 per person; space is limited, so reserve today!

d'tako mexican independence day

3. Mexican Independence Day Celebration at D’Tako Market
When: Thursday, September 15
Where: D’Tako Market {17100 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles; 305.974.0445}
Join Sunny Isles’ favorite taco restaurant for food and fun while celebrating Mexican Independence Day. (The official holiday takes place on September 16, celebrating 205 years of the country’s independence.) Enjoy all of your favorite Mexican dishes, live music, and delicious margaritas. Plus, guests can enjoy traditional Pozole with a complimentary shot of Tequila Revolucion.

somm slam uvaggio

4. Sommelier Slam II: Heath Porter vs. Daniel Toral
When: Thursday, September 24, 7pm
Where: Uvaggio Wine Bar & Restaurant {70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305.448.2400}
What: After the success of its inaugural “Somm Slam,” Uvaggio Wine Bar will host its second with 50 Eggs restaurant group, as Uvaggio’s very own head “Wine-O,” Heath Porter, goes pour-to-pour against Egg 50 wine director, Daniel Toral. The night will kick off with a charcuterie and bubbles reception, followed by a sampling of three different dishes, each accompanied by one wine pairing each from Porter and Toral. A dessert finale will follow, where the winner will be announced. Cost is $100 per person; purchase your tickets here.

Elwoods Miami

Elwoods Miami

5. Comedy and Trivia Nights at Elwoods
When: Every Tuesday
Where: Elwoods Gastropub {188 Northeast Third Avenue, Downtown Miami; 305.358.5222}
What: There’s always something brewing on Tuesday nights at Elwoods, Downtown Miami locals’ favorite neighborhood pub. On the first and third Tuesday of every month, get ready for some laughs as a lineup of local comedians do their best stand-up. Comedy night is sponsored by Samuel Adams, which means you can enjoy two seasonal beers for $8 all day long. On the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, come by at 8pm ready to test your useless knowledge with a fun, yet competitive, trivia competition. Bring your friends for the chance to win prizes and beer. And the best part: both comedy and trivia nights are free.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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7:50 am
Restaurant Features
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One of the things we love most about Miami Spice is that it doesn’t just last for one month, it lasts for two whole months. This means that there’s still plenty of time to visit all your favorite restaurants—and some brand-new ones—and enjoy unmatched three-course Miami Spice menus at discounted prices (dinner: $39; lunch: $23).

As we try to hit up as many Spice menus as we can, here are five more of our favorites we don’t want you to miss:

1. BLT Steak & The Betsy {1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.673.0044}
Spice menu available for lunch Monday-Friday and dinner Sunday-Friday.

Veal & Pork Meatballs from BLT Steak

Veal & Pork Meatballs from BLT Steak

We love that Celebrity Chef Laurent Tourondel likes to keep things interesting—his blackboard menu changes daily—and that means he’s entirely revamped his Spice menu for the month of September. For appetizers, our hands-down first choice is the Veal and Pork Meatballs. Chef Tourondel served these babies up for us during a special preview dinner last March, and we’ve been dreaming about them ever since! For entrées, it’s a toss-up between the 12oz CAB Coulotte and the Grilled Black Tiger Prawns. To round out the meal, you’ll also be able to choose your own side and melt-in-your-mouth dessert. But that’s not all! Even though it’s Miami Spice, you’ll still receive the complimentary goodies that are brought to every table at dinner: Chicken Liver Mousse with artisan bread and pickled vegetables, and the famous giant Popovers dusted with Gruyère cheese.

2. Bulla Gastrobar {2500 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables; 305.441.0107}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily.

Branzino a la Vasca from Bulla Gastrobar

Branzino a la Vasca from Bulla Gastrobar

There’s nothing more disappointing than arriving at your planned restaurant of the evening, sitting down at your table, and then having your server tell you: “We’re not offering our Miami Spice menu right now.” With many establishments placing restrictions on when their specials are actually available, it’s comforting to know that at Bulla, it’s always time for Spice. Just last week, the Spanish restaurant rolled out updated Spice menus, featuring items such as the Albóndigas de Cordero (lamb meatballs), Branzino a la Vasca, and the Torrija dessert. As an added bonus, for both lunch and dinner, you can enjoy TWO glasses of any of Bulla’s popular sangrías for just $10.

3. Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room {1395 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.503.6529}
Spice menu available for lunch and dinner daily.

Pan-Roasted Monkfish from Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room

Pan-Roasted Monkfish from Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room

For Miami Spice, the Conrad Miami’s signature restaurant is serving up some of its classic dishes and seasonal favorites. For appetizers, we recommend the crisp Waldorf Salad, followed by the Pan-Roasted Monkfish, which is served with confit garlic, Mediterranean baby vegetables, and red wine reduction. And for dessert, don’t miss out on the gooey Chocolate Coulant Cake served with salted caramel ice cream. Plus, if you’re looking for a quick power lunch, Atrio’s got you covered. Simply ask for the special “Taste of Time” menu, which guarantees (if you so choose) that you’ll be in and out in 45 minutes or less. An hourglass will be placed on your table at the start of the meal; and if your meal isn’t completed in time, your lunch is on the house.

4. Scarpetta {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
Spice menu available for dinner Sunday-Thursday.

Creamy Polenta from Scarpetta

Creamy Polenta from Scarpetta

Celebrity Chef Scott Conant’s menu at Scarpetta at the Fontainebleau is drool-worthy any time of year. But during Miami Spice, it becomes even more enticing. The restaurant recently revamped its Spice menu, giving you even more options to savor. For appetizers, we recommend the Creamy Polenta, which is served alongside a medley of truffled mushrooms (which happen to be a specialty of the restaurant this time of year). Continue the experience with the Short Rib Agnolotti Dal Pin before ending with the traditional dolce: Almond Panna Cotta. If you’re not in the mood for Italian, Fontainebleau’s three other flagship restaurants—Hakkasan, Michael Mina 74, and StripSteak—have also updated their Spice menus for the month of September.

5. The Bazaar by José Andrés {1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.455.2999}
Spice menu available for dinner Sunday-Thursday.

Bao con Lechón from The Bazaar by José Andrés

Bao con Lechón from The Bazaar by José Andrés

Decisions, decisions! Hands down, one of the most extensive option-filled Spice menus out there is from the SLS South Beach’s Bazaar by José Andrés. First, you’ll choose your appetizer, or “snack,” from five different options (we recommend the Bao con Lechón—pork belly on a Chinese bun). Next, you’ll select THREE options from an expansive menu that includes several “Verduras,” seven types of “Carnes y Mariscos,” and three “Fruits and Vegetables” dishes. And don’t forget: You’ll also get to choose a dessert, so be sure to save room!

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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