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Home / Posts Tagged "fontainebleau" (Page 2)

2:38 pm
Restaurant Features
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Art Basel has come and gone and Christmas and New Year’s are just weeks away (stay tuned for guides to each), but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate good food and friends in between! Here are some happenings taking place this month as we prepare to say farewell to 2015.

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

conrad miami

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

biltmore

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

Wynwood Yard

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

Fontainebleau Wine cellar

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

Thali Platter jaya at setai

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

segafredo bayside

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

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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9:45 am
Restaurant Features
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Fontainebleau Wine cellar

Paying homage to its storied past is commonplace at the Fontainebleau {4441 Collins Avenue; 877.512.8002}, which has been a Miami Beach icon for over 60 years. So it makes sense that the Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series (named after the year the hotel opened), which pair the world’s most prestigious wines and winemakers with the award-winning cuisine of the hotel’s restaurants, have been a huge success.

The series continues on Thursday, December 10, at 8pm at Fontainebleau’s signature steakhouse, StripSteak by Michael Mina. The special event will feature a decadent five-course menu prepared by Chef de Cuisine Derrick Roberts complemented by Champagne from Moët & Chandon. Each of the five courses will be paired with a different varietal from the label. Here’s a preview of the menu:

First Course
Beausoleil Oysters, Tuna Tartare, and Heirloom Tomato Arancini
paired with Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut and Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial

Second Course
Yellowtail Crudo with citrus, shaved radish, and shiso
paired with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Brut and Ruinart Brut Rosé

Third Course
Olive Oil Poached Halibut served with tomato, basil, Kalamata olives, and fingerling potato chips
paired with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut 2006 and Veuve Clicquot Vintage Brut 2004

Fourth Course
Wood-Roasted KC Stripsteak with Thumbelina carrots, parsnip purée, and bordelaise sauce
paired with Krug Vintage Brut 2000 and Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Vintage Brut 2004

Fifth Course
Poppy Wild Berry Tart with lychee sorbet and  exotic gel
paired with Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec

The dinner is priced at $275 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made by clicking here. For more information, call 877.326.7412.

Can’t make it on December 10? The Cellar 1954 Wine & Dinner Series continues in the new year: Saturday, January 23, at StripSteak, featuring pairings from Napa Valley winery Darioush and hosted by proprietor Darioush Khaledi; and Thursday, February 10 at Scarpetta, with wines from Odette Estate presented by winemaker Jeff Owens.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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1:29 pm
Restaurant Features
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In exactly one week, who among us will be frantically slicing, dicing, basting, and frosting? Who will be making last-minute trips to the to the grocery store (for the third time!)? Who will be so caught up in preparing a feast of such epic proportions that there isn’t time to take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Thanksgiving: giving thanks?

While home-cooked meals can certainly be fabulous, perhaps this is the year, you let someone else do the work—so you can focus on the stuff that really matters, like spending time with the people that you love. The following Miami restaurants are inviting you in to enjoy their own Thanksgiving feasts. We promise, if you go the dining out route, you (and your family) won’t be sorry.

Brickell/Downtown

Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288} invites guests to spend Thanksgiving at either one of its signature restaurants. From now through Thanksgiving, La Mar by Gastón Acurio will be offering a trio of à la carte Peruvian menu items inspired by the flavors of Thanksgiving, including Rocoto Relleno (shrimp stew with aji panca, pecans, cranberries, and sweet potato gratin); Jumbo Wings (turkey wings finished on the anticucho grill); and Cebiche de Pato (duck with orange, red onions, aji amarillo, and turmeric). And for dessert, don’t miss out on the to-die-for Peruvian Chocolate Cheesecake with caramelized pecans served with baked apple ice cream.

Azul

Azul at Mandarin Oriental, Miami

Over at Mandarin’s other restaurant, Azul, from 5-10pm, Chef Benjamin Murray is preparing a savory family-style four-course Thanksgiving feast with highlights that include Caramelized Butternut Squash Soup, Brioche-Sausage Stuffing, Poached Cranberries, Sweet Potato Purée, Broccoli Casserole, and, of course, Turkey! Price is $95 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity.

Meanwhile, on Brickell Avenue, Morton’s The Steakhouse {1200 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.440.9990} invites families to start a new Thanksgiving tradition. For more than 30 years, the steakhouse has served the finest USDA Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, and hand-picked produce—and Thanksgiving is no exception. All three Miami locations will be offering their regular menus from 1-9pm.

db Bistro Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich - PHOTO

To-Go Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich form db Bistro Moderne

Heading downtown, db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.421.8800} is offering a Thanksgiving menu with options. Daniel Boulud’s acclaimed eatery presents a three-course Thanksgiving dinner prepared by Chef Jason Pringle featuring your choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert. But that’s not all. You won’t miss having Thanksgiving leftovers, as db Bistro will be sending each guest home with a complimentary Turkey Sandwich to-go (pictured above), to enjoy the following day. Dinner will be served from 1-9pm; price is $65 per person. A special kids’ menu will also be available for $35 per child. In addition, the lounge will be open at noon and will have a limited à la carte Thanksgiving menu.

Miami Beach

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}, Miami Beach’s go-to dining destination for authentic Northern Italian cuisine, will offer a special à la carte Thanksgiving menu alongside its regular lunch and dinner menus. Special entrées include Tacchino Ripieno alla Piemontese, braised turkey breast stuffed with focaccia, Italian sausage, and pistachio served with sage mashed potatoes and homemade gravy; Risotto con Zucca, traditional risotto with pumpkin, walnuts, and Gorgonzola cheese; and Fiorentine d’Agnello, t-bone of lamb with mint demi-glace, Brussels sprouts, and truffle potato fries.

Quality Meats Miami Beach {1501 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.340.3333}, Miami Beach’s hottest new steakhouse, will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 4-10pm. The restaurant will have its regular menu in addition to a special limited-time Thanksgiving dish: Herb-Roasted Heritage Turkey with cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, and spiced sweet potato fries accompanied by local honey butter, giblet gravy, and Quality cranberry sauce.

Bazi

Bazi

Bazi {1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 05.695.0101}, a brand-new concept from the owners of the acclaimed Alton Road Italian eatery, Macchialina, will feature an innovative prix-fixe Thanksgiving feast with an Asian-inspired twist. The meal kicks off with a bowl of Turkey Wonton Soup, followed by Gyoza, a popular dish consisting of shrimp and chive dumplings and sweet potato dumplings. It continues with Peking Turkey, served with wasabi mashed potatoes and scallion pancakes. Dinner will be offered from 5-10pm for $55 per person.

If you’re not the type that wants to wait ’til dinner to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, you’re in luck. The Restaurant at The Setai {2001 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.520.6400} is presenting an elaborate and untraditional brunch (three seatings will be available: 11:30am, 1pm, and 2:30pm). Expect both Thanksgiving classics along with non-classics such as Indonesian Beef Rendang, Indian Lamb Vindaloo, Upma (Indian polenta), a selection of Indian tandoori breads, and much, much more. From 7-10pm, the Setai will resume food service with a delicious three-course menu offering choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert for $95 per person ($48 per child).

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts from Cleo

SBE’s celebrated Mediterranean restaurant, Cleo {1776 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.534.2536}, will host its annual “Cleopatra’s Thanksgiving Feast,” an exquisite Thanksgiving menu with a Mediterranean theme. For just $39 per person, diners will enjoy items such as Roasted Pumpkin Dip, Pistachio and Roasted Chestnut Stuffing, Blistered Brussels Sprouts, and a Pomegranate Glazed Turkey all served up by award-winning Chef Danny Elmaleh.

SBE’s other popular SoBe restaurant, The Bazaar by José Andrés {1701 Collins Avenue; Miami Beach; 305.455.2999}, will be offering its regular dinner menu along with an incredible à la carte Thanksgiving menu designed to be enjoyed family-style. Dinner will begin at 6pm and will feature items such as Squash Soup with vanilla, curry, and Taylor Bay scallops; Amish-Farmed Turkey, with a truffled breast, confit leg, and topped with traditional gravy; Green Bean Casserole with matsutake mushrooms and crispy shallots; Sweet Potatoes with marshmallow fluff and caramelized pecans; and more.

There will be a plethora of Turkey Day dining options available Thanksgiving Day at Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}. At Scarpetta, the hotel’s acclaimed Italian eatery, guests can indulge in a three-course prix-fixe dinner for $75 per person featuring Butternut Squash Soup Fregato with toasted focaccia and roasted mushrooms; Roast Turkey Porchetta with cranberry mostarda and Brussels sprouts; and Pumpkin Tiramisù, crafted with spiced pumpkin mascarpone and served beside Marsala-soaked lady fingers, mocha espuma, and cinnamon gelato.

Fontainebleau, Chez Bon Bon Coffee, StripSteak Restaurant

StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

The hotel’s signature steakhouse, StripSteak by Michael Mina will also offer a prix-fixe dinner menu from 6-11pm for $75 per person. The highlight of the dinner will be Roasted Turkey Breast with turkey leg confit and chorizo cornbread stuffing. The meal will start off with Roasted Baby Beets with dried cranberries, hazelnuts, and goat cheese, topped with walnut vinaigrette and conclude with Pumpkin Pie topped with cinnamon whipped cream and spiced caramel sauce.

Michael Mina 74 will have its regular lunch menu at the bar with football games airing from 11:30am-6pm and Thanksgiving specials offered à la carte from 6-11pm, including a hearty Turkey Breast Roulade with confit leg sage stuffing, Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy, and mouthwatering Pumpkin Cheesecake topped with spiced Jamaican anglaise and orange compote.

And Beyond

hyde beach kitchen + Cocktails

Pumpkin Butter Rolls from Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails

Let us not forget our friends further north. SBE’s newest hot spot, Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale; 954.699.0901} will be serving a prix-fixe menu for $50 per person, with menu items that include a Seafood Tower; Pumpkin Butter Rolls; a Roasted Turkey Breast with apricot and pistachio stuffing; and Pecan Pumpkin Pie.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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7:49 am
Restaurant Features
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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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1:59 pm
Restaurant Features
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pink building 2

For the seventh year in a row, the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach} is partnering with Susan G. Komen of Miami/Fort Lauderdale for the Bleau Goes Pink campaign, a month-long event in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

On October 1, Fontainebleau President and COO Philip Goldfarb initiated the pink illumination of the hotel’s Chateau Tower, which will remain pink from dusk until 10pm nightly throughout October. The hotel is also featuring special spa treatments at Lapis Spa, specialty merchandise from its retail locations, and—our favorite part—delicious prix-fixe menus at its signature restaurants.

Here’s how you can help:

Dine for the Cure
Enjoy specialty prix-fixe menus for $55 a person at Hakkasan, Scarpetta, Michael Mina 74, and StripSteak by Michael Mina; $5 from every cover will be donated to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale. Click here to view the complete prix-fixe menus. Chez Bon Bon is also offering pink desserts and treats, including strawberry éclairs, raspberry macaroon tarts, pink cotton candy, strawberry gelato, and pink velvet cupcakes.

Chez Bon Bon 3

Spa for the Cure
Reserve a Bleau Ocean Luxury treatment and Lapis Spa will donate $10 for every treatment to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale.

Shop for the Cure
Purchase a limited-edition pink Lokai bracelet for $18 at Morris & Co.; $1 from each bracelet sold will be donated to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale. Or, stop the Lapis spa retail shop to purchase a breast cancer awareness braider bracelet by Lisa Schwartz Jewelry for $30, $10 of which will be donated to the charity.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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8:26 am
Restaurant Features
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October is more than just tricks and treats—though there are plenty of those this time of year. It’s also a month for giving back to the community. Here are nine can’t-miss Miami happenings this month.

South Beach Seafood Festival

1. South Beach Seafood Festival
When: October 21-24
Where: Seventh Street and Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
What: The South Beach Seafood Festival hits the sand, featuring live music, culinary and mixology demonstrations, a kids’ zone, a health village, and more. Mini cafés on the sand will showcase mouthwatering plates of fresh stone crabs, mahi sliders, oysters, shrimp tacos, and lobster mac and cheese, from restaurants such as A Fish Called Avalon, Cibo, the Oceanaire Seafood Room, SOHO Bay, Midtown Oyster Bar, and more. Click here to purchase tickets.

Wine on Harvest Moon Deering Estate

2. Wine On Harvest Moon – Spirits, Spells, and American Lore
When: Saturday, October 24, 7:30-10:30pm
Where: Deering Estate {16701 Southwest 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay}
What: The Deering Estate Foundation’s Wine On Harvest Moon returns with a theme of “Spirits, Spells, and American Lore.” Guests will spend an enchanted evening at the historic bay-front property as they celebrate the allure of American folklore through fine wine, spirits, and tasty vittles paired by local chefs such as Olivier Rodriguez of the Biltmore Hotel, Diego Solano of Bulla Gastrobar, and Kareem Anguin of the Oceanaire Seafood Room, among others. Guests will also enjoy themed entertainment, including chilling musical performances, haunting vignettes, contemporary art, and an enticing live auction. For tickets, call 305.235.1668 x263 or click here.

march of dimes signature chefs

3. March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction
When: Thursday, October 29, 6:30-9:30pm
Where: The Westin Colonnade Coral Gables {180 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables}
What: The 18th-annual Miami Signature Chefs Auction presented by GOYA is the premier event benefiting the March of Dimes and has become one of the most exciting and exclusive fundraising events in South Florida. Guests will enjoy samplings from local chefs and a silent auction, followed by a seated dessert and live auction featuring unique dining experiences, travel, and more. All proceeds support the March of Dimes’ mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births, and infant mortality. For sponsorship information, click here.

4. Drink Pink to Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month
When: October 1-31
Where: Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901}
What: SBE and Related Group’s newest lifestyle property is inviting guests to join in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month by drinking pink. During the month of October, HBKC’s luxurious second-floor restaurant will be donating 10-percent of proceeds from the sale of every bottle of Whispering Angel Rosé to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

db Burger

5. Burger & Bordeaux at db Bistro Moderne
When: October 1-31, dinner only
Where: db Bistro Moderne {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Miami; 305.421.8800}
What: During the entire month of October, guests are invited to experience the Miami winner of Zagat’s “Best Burgers in the USA” with an appetizer, dessert, and a glass of Bordeaux for just $39 (a $72 value). Credited with launching the gourmet burger movement, the ground sirloin db Burger is stuffed with red wine-braised short ribs and foie gras and presented on a homemade toasted Parmesan and poppyseed bun with a touch of fresh horseradish and oven-roasted tomato confit. Sommelier Alan Feldman is pairing the decadent burger with a glass of 2010 Château de Ricaud, Bordeaux Supérieur, Cadillac-Côtes de Bordeaux.

6. Tantalize Miami Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month
When: October 1-31
Where: Tantalize Miami {330 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.695.1401}
What: During the month of October, Tantalize Miami will offer a special prix-fixe dinner menu (just $45 per person) and signature pink cocktails—the Pink Tantalizer (St. George vodka, Giffard Crème de Violette, fresh lemon juice, Thai chile syrup, and Col de Salici prosecco with grenadine) and  the Pink Cosmo (Cîroc vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice)—with a percentage of each one sold benefiting the Sandy B. Muller Breast Cancer Foundation.

STK Halloween

7. STK’s Day of the Dead Halloween Eve Party
When: Friday, October 30, 7-10pm
Where: STK Miami {2311 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.604.6988}
What: On the frightening “Day of the Dead,” STK Miami hosts a spooky themed night featuring an open bar “Boos and Booze” package for just $50. Guests are invited to engage in the enchanting magic of Halloween and dress to impress, with prizes awarded to the best costumes. Halloween Eve will be filled with surprises, including a phantom performance yet to be revealed.

fontainebleau frank sinatra

8. Fontainebleau Celebrates Frank Sinatra
When: Through December 12
Where: Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.535.3283}
What: The legendary Fontainebleau hotel celebrates the legacy of Frank Sinatra and his upcoming centennial birthday with 100 days of unique programming. Highlights include:

  • Jack Daniel’s Throwback Dinner at StripSteak by Michael Mina (October 8)
  • Cocktails and Brunch with Frank, featuring a vintage menu from the 1950s (every Sunday, 11:30am-3pm)
  • Nightly Toast with Frank, Jack, and You at Bleau Bar, where guests raise a complimentary glass of Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select in honor of Sinatra’s upcoming birthday (daily at 6:30pm)

Villa Azur Thursday

9. Villa Azur’s Thursday Night Dinner Party
When: Every Thursday night
Where: Villa Azur {309 23rd Street, Miami Beach; 305.763.8688}
What: The weekly Thursday Night Dinner Parties at Villa Azur attract Miami’s finest as the restaurant showcases gourmet cuisine, Champagne, and sparklers with breathtaking performances by the theatrical Zhantra dancers, a live saxophonist, and DJ Stephan M mixing his own personal mash-ups along with original works to keep the tempo upbeat throughout the evening.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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8:42 am
Restaurant Features
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MM74 Tap Takeover

There’s always something brewing at Fontainebleau Miami Beach {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.512.8002} and this month is no exception.

M.I.A. Brewing, the Doral-based brewery, taproom, and beer garden is currently partnering with the hotel’s signature restaurant, Michael Mina 74, for a one-of-a-kind “tap takeover.” From now through October, all eight of the MM74’s taps will be pouring an array of  the brewery’s handcrafted beers, ales, and stouts.

In celebration of this partnership, tomorrow, Wednesday, September 30, at 8:30pm, M.I.A.’s brew master Michael Demetrus will join Chef Thomas Griese for a special five-course beer-pairing dinner.

Here’s what you can expect:

First Course: Duo of Diver Sea Scallop “Chaud-Froid”
Scallop espuma, hibiscus gel, sweet corn royalé, and herbed sabayon
Paired with: Regresa a Mi
Berliner Weisse fermented with guava and hibiscus

Second Course: Maine Lobster Pasta
Hand-cut pappardelle, garden squash ribbons, and lemon verbena
Paired with: Fontainebru
Saison (dry farmhouse ale) fermented with lemon verbena

Third Course: Jerked Caribbean Quail and Foie Gras
Cannellini bean purée, macadamia nuts, and saffron-infused mango
Paired with: Rye Tortugas
Galaxy red rye malt-forward ale

Fourth Course: Coffee-Rubbed Prime Skirt Steak Churrasco
Passionfruit brown butter, coffee textures, and tarragon
Paired with: Czar Face
Russian Imperial stout

Fifth Course: Double Chocolate Raspberry Torte
Aerated Tahitian vanilla-bean ice cream, raspberry cells, and cocoa nibs
Paired with: Moo-Over Miami
Roast dark chocolate full-bodied stout with cocoa nibs and vanilla bean

The prix-fixe menu is priced at $85 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and tickets can be purchase online here.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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1:00 pm
Restaurant Features
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hakkasan

When it comes to Chinese food in Miami, it really doesn’t get much better than Hakkasan {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}, the AAA Four Diamond restaurant that’s often cited as one of the top 50 restaurants in the entire world.

Just one of several signature restaurants at the trendy Fontainebleau hotel, Hakkasan stays relevant and popular with its cool, low-lit vibe and its mix of authentic Cantonese cuisine and traditional dim sum, offered every evening and for lunch during the weekends. And, starting next week, Hakkasan will present a special menu in honor of Golden Week, a seven-day holiday in China during the first week of October where all Chinese workers are given paid time off; consequently, it’s a popular time for the Chinese to travel around the world, visit family, and experience luxury offerings.

Although it’s only a seven-day holiday in China, Hakkasan will be celebrating Golden Week for almost a month—September 21 through October 18—when the restaurant will offer a traditional upscale Chinese feast priced at $138 per person.

Hakkasan dumpling

The meal starts off with Crispy Eggplant with dried fish floss and the Supreme Dim Sum Platter, which includes a lychee and lobster dumpling, abalone shumai with caviar, Alaskan King crab dumpling, and the Dover sole dumpling with black truffle.

Hakkasan dumpling 2

For the main course, specialty items include the Steamed Red Snapper in royal supreme sauce with golden enoki; Braised Boston Lobster in superior stock; Wok-Fried Rib-Eye Beef with lotus root and black pepper; Stir-Fry Asparagus with morel, ginkgo nut, and lotus seed; and Fried Rice with Diced Abalone.

Golden Week_Gold Macarons

The feast includes a specialty Colden Iced Tea cocktail; and for an indulgent dessert, each guest receives a bag of golden macarons. Perhaps all that glitters is gold.

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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9:43 am
Restaurant Features
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The Dog Days of Summer are here, and we’re certainly feeling it! But good news: Miami Spice is here as well. Check out ilovemiamispice.com to see the full list of nearly 200 restaurants throughout Miami that are offering special lunch and dinner prix-fixe menus from now through September 30. We also put together two previews of some of our favorite Miami Spice menus–check those out here and here. In addition to Miami Spice specials, here are our top Miami August events to help keep your mind off all this heat and humidity.

MO Bar + Lounge

Bar Spice at MO Bar + Lounge
When: Through September 30
Where: MO Bar + Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288}
What: Miami Spice is in full swing, which means that Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s signature restaurants will be offering unbeatable prix-fixe menus (La Mar by Gastón Acurio for lunch and dinner; Azul for dinner only). But that’s not all. The five-star resort’s MO Bar + Lounge is getting in on the action by adding a twist to three signature cocktails: the Aji Rocoto and Pineapple “Margarita” with tequila reposado, rocoto-pineapple marmalade, house citrus cordial, lime, and a tajin rim; the Ancho Chile and Chocolate “Manhattan” with ron añejo, Chinato vermouth, Ancho Reyes, crème de cacao, and orange bitters; and the Jalapeño and Tamarind “Pisco Sour” with pisco acholado, tamarind falernum syrup, lemon, and muddled jalapeño.

stripsteak

New Sunday Brunch at StripSteak
When: Every Sunday, 11:30am-3pm
Where: StripSteak at Fontainebleau {4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 877.326.7412}
What: Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s newest signature restaurant from celebrity chef Michael Mina has recently introduced an unbeatable Sunday brunch. For just $68 per person, enjoy a fabulous two-course plated menu (your choice of appetizer and entrée), a delicious signature cocktail, unlimited shellfish, charcuterie, and cheeses, freshly baked breads, breakfast pastries, and desserts, a Greek yogurt parfait bar, and complimentary valet parking. Unlimited mimosas, Bellinis, and Fizzy Bellboys (the restaurant’s signature cocktail) are an additional $25 per person.

Sardinia enoteca

Wine Tuesdays at Sardinia Enoteca
When: Every Tuesday
Where: Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante {1801 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.531.2228}
What: Every Tuesday from noon to midnight, guests at Sardinia enjoy 40-percent off select wines. It’s a vintage special you won’t want to miss. But that’s not all. Through September, Sardinia is offering Miami Spice menus for both lunch (everyday) and dinner (Sunday-Thursday).

seafood bahia four seasons

SPF Saturdays (Seafood + Pool + Four Seasons)
When: Saturdays, 1-3pm, through September 5
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Miami {1435 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.381.3030}
What: On Saturdays at 1:30pm sharp, Bahia, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami’s seventh-floor poolside restaurant and bar, is offering a Southern-style Seafood Boil featuring family-style servings of lobster, pink shrimp, Florida clams, mussels, and crawfish simmered in Cajun-style spices, accompanied by sweet corn on the cob, golden potatoes, and housemade smoked sausage. Tickets are required ($65 per person) and include access to the hotel’s two resort-style pools.

Those not wanting to purchase tickets can still join in the fun. From 1-3pm, Bahia is also offering what it calls The RAWBar, a special à la carte seafood menu featuring Freshly Shucked East Coast Oysters and Florida Clams, Peel-and-Eat Key West Pink Shrimp, Corvina Crudo, Lobster and Shrimp Ceviche, and an East Coast Mussel Salad.

Marc Irwin Piano concert in The Betsy Lobby

(mostly jazz) with Marc Irwin at The Betsy
When: August 19, 8-11pm
Where: The Betsy–South Beach {1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach; 305.673.0044}
What: On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, The Betsy hotel’s Lobby Salon welcomes some of the greatest live musicians for intimate performances. Dr. Marc Irwin is a pianist, composer, arranger, and recording artist who has played for and with a variety of top musicians across the country. He currently acts as musical director for The Capitol Steps, performing political satire throughout the United States and Canada. No cover; no drink minimum!

An added bonus: Adjacent to the Lobby Salon is the award-winning BLT Steak, which will be serving its unbeatable Miami Spice menu. Choose one appetizer (Roasted Peach Salad, Vadouvan Lamb “Porchetta,” or Local Cobia Tataki Sushi Roll), one entrée (10oz CAB Delmonico Steak or Local Seafood Bouillabaisse), and one dessert (Valrhona Chocolate-Strawberry Cake or Coconut-Lime Cheesecake) for just $39. And yes, the restaurant’s famed popovers are included.

db Miami Wine Cellar by B. Milne

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Dinner at db Bistro
When: August 19
Where: db Bistro Moderne Miami {255 Biscayne Boulevard Way, Downtown; 305.421.8800}
What: Join Chef Jason Pringle and Sommelier Alan Feldman for a special dining event featuring wines from France’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape region in the Southern Rhône Valley. Chef Pringle will prepare a sophisticated meal paired with a unique selection of rare vintages from one of the most traditional winemaking appellations in France. The night will begin with a wine reception and light appetizers in The Lounge followed by a five-course dinner in the main dining room. Can’t make it to the dinner? The restaurant will be offering Miami Spice menus for both lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday all month long.

By Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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