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Home / Posts Tagged "mandarin oriental miami"

2:34 pm
Restaurant Features
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azul cooking classIt’s only natural that a triple five-star hotel such as Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358} would have restaurants helmed by some of the most talented chefs around. But it’s not every day that you can get an up-close-and-personal look inside the workings of these chefs’ kitchens.

But that’s exactly what the luxury hotel on Brickell Key is doing. Award-winning Chefs Benjamin Murray of Azul (above) and Diego Oka of La Mar by Gastón Acurio (below) are inviting both guests and locals alike into their culinary workspaces for a series of interactive cooking classes and demonstrations.

chef diego okaLearn what goes on behind the scenes in preparing world-class menu items, while picking up basic cooking tips and tricks to take to your own kitchen. For example: Did you know that the flavor you get from a lime’s juice depends on the way you slice it? Do you know which fish varieties have the least amount of fat? What about the best tools for sautéing meat over an open-flame stove?

At Azul, Chef Murray shows how to prepare the ultimate gourmet lunch in the restaurant’s marble-clad open kitchen. The session is followed by a three-course tasting menu matched with flights of premium wines by sommelier Dwayne Savoie. Classes are $175 per person and take place from 10am-1pm.

At La Mar, Chef Oka demonstrates how to create classic Peruvian dishes such as cebiche and a selection of causas. You’ll also learn how to create a traditional pisco sour at La Mar’s waterfront bar by Lef Kraounakis. Classes are $100 per person and take place from 6-7:30pm.

2016 Cooking Classes Schedule:

Saturday, April 23: Springtime Flavors with Chef Murray of Azul
Friday, May 6: Causa Tasting with Chef Oka of La Mar
Saturday, June 11: Japanese Techniques with Chef Murray of Azul
Saturday, September 24: Couples Cooking with Chef Murray of Azul
Saturday, November 12: Festive Ways to Prepare for the Holidays with Chef Murray of Azul
Friday, December 9: The Secrets of Leche de Tigre with Chef Oka of La Mar

Each student is given recipe cards and cooking notes for easy step-by-step reference. And upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate of participation and a signature apron, earning you bragging chef rights at your next big family dinner celebration.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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12:29 pm
Restaurant Features
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Spring has sprung, March Madness is underway, and Easter is just around the corner (stay tuned for our Easter brunch roundup). Here are 11 must-do March events in the meantime.

Shrimp Salad

1. New Lunch Menu at Seaspice
When: Tuesday-Friday, Noon-4pm
Where: Seaspice {422 Northwest North River Drive, Miami; 305.440.4200}
What: Seaspice has launched an all-new lunch menu, a combination of old and new favorites, including the Shrimp Salad (pictured above), the Market Fish Sandwich with tarragon rémoulade, cucumber slaw, and butter lettuce on ciabatta loaf; the Seaspice Lobster Roll with warm Maine lobster, mini challah buns, chive-lemon aïoli, and shaved celery; the Steak Frites with 1855 Prime grilled bavette and green peppercorn sauce; and the Vegetable Pizzeta, made fresh daily.

apeiro2. March Madness at Apeiro Kitchen
When: All month long; Monday-Thursday, 4pm-close
Where: Apeiro Kitchen & Bar {3252 Northeast First Avenue, Suite 101, Midtown; 786.800.5389}
What: Delray Beach’s popular Mediterranean restaurant Apeiro recently opened in Midtown. And for the entire month of March (Monday-Thursday, 4pm-close), diners will get 50-percent off their dinner check (cannot be combined with other offers). Come out to try Chef Anthony Sitek’s progressive Mediterranean cuisine, including a few new creations like the Chicken Firakh, Mahi Tacos, Naked Falafel, and more.

MO Bar Sushi
3. New Happy Hour and Sushi Tuesdays at Mandarin Oriental
When: Monday-Friday 5-8pm
Where: MO Bar at Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8288}
What: Mandarin Oriental, Miami has expanding its weekly happy hour offerings, with 12 distinctive cocktails priced at only $8 each, a selection of wines at $8 per glass, and select beers for $6. The new “light bites” menu features five bites for just $5 each. Plus, in a nod to the hotel’s Asian roots, you can enjoy Sushi Night every Tuesday during happy hour with unlimited servings of Mandarin Oriental’s signature sushi for just $25 per person.

House Bacon
4. Quality Meats’ New Grill Menu
When: Nightly
Where: Quality Meats Miami Beach {1501 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.340.3333}
What: Miami Beach’s acclaimed steakhouse has introduced an accessibly priced Grill Menu for just $39 per person. Appetizers include Yellowfina Tuna Carpaccio, Roasted Bone Marrow, Kale and Manchego Salad, and the dish that won SOBEWFF’s Meatopia People’s Choice Award: House-Cured Slab Bacon with peanut butter and jalapeño jelly (shown above). Main courses include a hearty plate of Baby Back Ribs, Petit Filet Mignon, Blackened Redfish, and Lemon-Charred Chicken.

Quattro Prosciutto e Melone
5. Quattro Gastronomia Italiana’s New Lunch Special
When: Monday-Friday Noon-6pm
Where: Quattro Gastronomia Italiana {1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 305.531.4833}
What: Lincoln Road’s authentic Italian restaurant has introduced a two-course weekday lunch menu for just $25 per person. Begin with a choice of antipasti: Caprese, Prosciutto e Melone (shown above), or Pasta e Fagioli con Maltagliati. For your entrée, choose the Cotoletta di Pollo, Penne alla Norma, or the Orata alla Griglia con Salsa Verde. Glasses of Prosecco Jeio, Pinot Grigio Gran Ducato, and Chianti Le Torri are just $7 per glass.

hyde beach kitchen + cocktails
6. St. Patrick’s Day at Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails
When: Thursday, March 17
Where: Hyde Beach Kitchen + Cocktails {111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach; 954.699.0901}
What: Taste the luck of the Irish at HBKC with exclusive specials all day from 9am-6pm at the first floor beach bar. Enjoy $5 Jameson shots, $10 Guinness/Jameson combos, and $3 Hollywood Pilsner green beer all while being surrounded by the silky sands, sparkling waters, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

7. Burlesque Brunch at R House
When: Third Sunday of the Month; starting March 20
Where: R House {2727 Northwest Second Avenue, Wynwood; 305.576.0201}
What: Following the success of its Valentine’s Day brunch, R House will now host its Burlesque Brunch every third Sunday of the month featuring live burlesque performances throughout the day from noon-5pm. Enjoy unlimited brunch items for $35 per person or bottomless cocktails for $25 per person—or both, for a discounted price of $55 per person.

biltmore chef beppe8. Pasta-Bilities with the Biltmore’s Chef Beppe
When: Sunday, March 20
Where: Fontana at the Biltmore {1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305.913.3200}
What: Think of all the “Pasta-Bilities” you can create with Fontana’s Chef Beppe as he takes the energy from his exhibition kitchen as handcrafts a unique variety of pastas including tortellini, ravioli, gnocchi, fettuccini, and black tagliolini while the hotel’s sommelier selectively pairs them with five succulent glasses of wine. Cost is $65 per person. Click here for reservations.

Taste Of Tennis Miami Presented By Citi At W South Beach9. Taste of Tennis Miami
When: Monday, March 21, 7-10pm
Where: W South Beach {2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 305.938.3000}
What: The second annual Taste of Tennis Miami brings together signature cuisine from top chefs, an array of cocktails, and appearances from the world’s best tennis players. This year’s chef lineup includes Mike Pirolo of Bazi and Macchialina, Diego Solano of Bulla Gastrobar, Chef Bee from Oishi Thai and NaiYaRa, Patrick Reholz from Quality Meats, Loris Navone from Tamarina, and many others. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit FIU College of Architecture + The Arts. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit tasteoftennis.com.

10. Tamarina Wine Dinner
When: Wednesday, March 23, at 7:30pm
Where: Tamarina {600 Brickell Avenue, Brickell; 305.579.1888}
What: This month, Tamarina’s monthly wine dinner will emphasize the the principles and practices of biodynamics based on spiritual philosophy, carefully paired with a chef’s special menu. Stay tuned for details! To reserve your seat, email [email protected].

Miami Beach Edition
11. Movie on the Sand
When: Saturday, March 26, at 7pm
Where: Miami Beach EDITION {2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach; 786.257.4500}
What: Watch the classic 1959 comedy “Some Like It Hot” in the Sandbox while enjoying a picnic basket for two. For $150, a basket includes a bottle of wine, shrimp cocktail, local vegetable crudité with lemon yogurt dip, kale salad, gourmet popcorn, and house-baked cookies. Call 786.257.4600 for reservations.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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8:13 am
Recipes
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La Mar Cebiche Clasico

Cebiche Clasico from La Mar by Gastón Acurio at Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358}

Ingredients
3-1/2 oz fluke, cubed
salt
red habanero, brunoised
1 fresh lime
2 oz leche de tigre
1 oz red onions, julienned
Garnish:
sweet potato
choclo
micro-cilantro
Method: In a bowl, mix fish, salt, habanero, lime juice, and leche de tigre. Form the mixture into a mountain shape, and place red onion on top. Decorate with sweet potato, choclo, and micro-cilantro.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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9:38 am
Restaurant Features
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Azul Chirashi Don Izakaya Nights

“Chirashi Don”

Starting this Thursday, February 4, Azul at Mandarin Oriental, Miami {500 Brickell Key Drive, Brickell; 305.913.8358} will be celebrating the Japanese roots of its chef, Benjamin Murray, with a new series called “Izakaya Nights.”

Every Thursday through March 31, Chef Murray will offer a special menu inspired by the shareable cuisine found at traditional Izakaya restaurants in Japan, complemented by a full selection of cocktails featuring Asian spirits and ingredients.

The weekly rotating menu will fuse Japanese fare with Murray’s contemporary techniques. Highlights include Gyoza Dumplings with short rib, miso, shrimp, scallion, and togarashi; Branzino served with kabocha squash, kalamansi, eggplant katsu, and shiso, a Japanese mint-like herb; Chirashi Don, a Japanese rice bowl served with yellowfin tuna, avocado, sushi rice, furikake, and ponzu; and Croquettes of Okinawa Sweet Potato, which are lightly fried and served with piquant “Bulldog Sauce.” A dessert sampler will include Japanese-style Cotton Cheesecake, Wolfberry Coconut Mochi, and Green Tea Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Azul’s “Izakaya Nights” menu is $55 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Includes four shareable plates plus dessert. Themed cocktails and sake pairings are available for $30 (two cocktails) or $25 for sake.

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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7:57 am
Restaurant Features
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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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10:33 am
Restaurant Features
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Fireworks New Year’s Eve is quickly approaching. Don’t miss out on scoring a table at one of the hottest restaurants in town, many of which will keep the party going well into 2016. Here’s where to spend New Year’s Eve in Miami.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

—Sherri Balefsky | Miami Editor

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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
0

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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10:10 am
Culinary Personalities
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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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9:43 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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