A true testament to the will of owners Manuel and Tina Torterola, Lilikoi has remained open for pick-up and delivery; And now, they are taking it one step further by offering fresh, wholesome ingredients with an organic grocery menu.
Since opening their door in 2016, Lilikoi has gained loyal customers simply by doing things the right way. Before the Miami Beach ban on plastic at restaurants, Lilikoi had already been single-use plastic-free. Before sustainable had made it into our everyday lexicon, Lilikoi knew no other way of running their business and handling their food. Lilikoi’s organic living is a reflection of chef and co-owner Manuel and his life partner Tina Torterola.
Co-owner Manuel in the kitchen
A chef-driven, casual restaurant, Lilikoi provides dishes inspired by the eastern philosophy concept of living in harmony with nature. Manuel’s core value, when it comes to food, has to do with the integrity of how food is handled, cooked, and shared. He oversees every detail and culinary aspect of his food, from creating every single item from scratch or sourcing it from the best providers to serving food that is made as it is ordered. Even the fish is smoked in-house with local wood!
Behind Lilikoi’s philosophy lies Manuel’s unique upbringing in Argentina. He grew up eating and understanding food as an essential aspect of our health. He and his family would feast on a garden salad every night, and when sick, they would resort to using Chinese medicinal tinctures instead of reaching for the pill cabinet. At an early age, he was introduced to the Eastern concept that supplying the best nutrition through wholesome and freshly prepared foods is key to our health and vitality.
Lilikoi’s organic living motto is not limited to serving food. For Tina and Manuel, organic living encompasses interacting with every part of life in this same way, with their peers or with a stranger on the street. Organic living is extending kindness in every aspect of our lives. Manuel defines food by likening it to comfort and art, to a bridge between people in good company, a conversation, a sunset, or a memory with friends.
Lilikoi Organic Living, Miami Beach
Lilikoi’s menu offers warm, filling, and savory dishes inspired by Hawaiian cuisine—hence the name Lilikoi, which means passionfruit. The menu boasts plant-based options as well as animal-protein dishes with high quality and responsibly sourced meat and fish. Manuel recommends the poke bowl with salmon or his farro -heirloom grain- trumpet mushroom risotto.
In an effort to prevent the spread of Coronavirus disease–COVID-19–the world is respecting the social distancing practice and staying home. Like in other cities around the world, a great portion of the Miami food and drink scene remains open only for delivery, takeout, and pickup. As these are hard times especially in the hospitality world, we strongly encourage you all to support the local businesses and restaurants in your area. That’s why we prepared this roundup of restaurants, which are still open for takeout and delivery, grouped by major areas. Stay home and stay healthy!
Miami Beach
The Alley at the Betsy Hotel
The Alley at the Betsy Hotel in South Beach offers delivery, curbside pickup, and takeout. Along with their menu, to-go beers, half-off wine, and pre-batched cocktails are available. Check out their menu here and order on UberEats or Postmates. For more information and the restaurant’s takeout menu, you can visit their website or call them at (305) 673-0044.
Bodega
Bodega is open for delivery and takeout from 11:30 am to midnight. You can order on their website and receive 20 percent discount with code WFH.
Cafe Prima Pasta
Cafe Prima Pasta is offering take out orders from 12 pm to 10 pm everyday. The Italian restaurant is offering two types of family meals that can feed six or more people). 414 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141
Fratelli La Bufala
Fratelli La Bufala is offering takeout and delivery, starting at noon. Delivery is available through UberEats, DoorDash, Postmates and GrubHub. 437 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Lilikoi: Vegan and Gluten-free Food Delivered
Get the healthy food you love and enjoy delivered to your doorstep from Lilikoi, which is open for takeout and delivery. You can order directly from the restaurant’s website. 500 South Pointe Drive, Miami, FL – (305) 763-8692
Market at EDITION: From Breakfast to Dinner
Although Matador Room is temporarily closed during the coronavirus crises, Market at EDITION remains open from 7 am to 10 pm for takeout. 2901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (786) 257-4600
Nobu Miami: When You Get That Nobu Craving
Nobu Miami
It’s hard to give up on Nobu and there’s no need to. Nobu Miami is open for takeout from 5 to 9 pm. 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 695-3232
Prime 112
Myles Chefetz’ Miami Beach steakhouse, Prime 112 is now available on Postmates. You can also order directly by calling (305) 532-8112, available daily from 11 am to 11 pm. 112 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL
Pubbelly: 10% Off Delivery, Takeout and Pickup
With four locations in Miami Beach, Brickell, Dadeland, and Aventura, Pubbelly is open for delivery and pickup orders. You can save 10% on your order total, when you order via phone or their website. 1424 20th Street Miami Beach, FL
Pura Vida: Keep Your Immune System Strong
With four locations around the city in South Beach, Coral Gables, Edgewater, and Design District, Pura Vida continues to serve Miamians with healthy meals, snacks, and juices. Search for Pura Vida on UberEats for delivery. 110 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 535-4142
Sardinia: Mediterranean Delicacies, Delivered
One of our favorite Mediterranean restaurants in Miami Beach, Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante is open for delivery and takeout from noon to 3 pm with their lunch menu and from 6 pm to 9 pm with their dinner menu. 1801 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (305) 531-2228
Stubborn Seed: Treat Yourself
When you find yourself dreaming about Stubborn Seed’s amazing offerings, pick the phone up and order that plate you love and don’t forget the snickerdoodle cookies. Check out their menu online. 101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL – (786) 322-5211
Wynwood and Midtown
Coyo Taco
All Coyo Taco menu items will be available for pickup and delivery via Uber Eats, Postmates, GrubHub, and Door Dash. 2300 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL
Le Chick: Eat Something Chic
One of Wynwood’s thriving restaurants, Le Chick remains open for delivery and takeout. Give them a call and use your favorite delivery app. 310 NW 24th Str, Miami, FL – (786) 216 7086
Love Life: Stay Healthy
Plant-based and vegan, Love Life‘s offerings should be your go-to for to-go orders these days. The Wynwood restaurant operates from 11 am to 9 pm for takeout and deliveries. Search for them on your favorite delivery app. 2616 NW 5th Avenue, Miami, FL – (305) 456 4148
Pamela Wasabi Bakery
Pamela Wasabi Bakery: Eat More Beauty
Pamela Wasabi continues shipping her gluten-free and vegan delicacies through her website. You can get free shipping on orders over $35 using code LOVE at checkout. www.pamelawasabi.com
Downtown, Brickell, and Little Havana
All Day Mia
A popular coffee shop in Downtown, All Day Mia is now offering delivery and takeout along with locally sourced grocery items through alldayaway.com. The Downtown spot also launched a relief fund for food and beverage workers. Check that out here.
Alloy Bistro: 50% Off Wine
Alloy Bistro
Located in Downtown, Alloy Bistro is offering 50% off wine along with its Mediterranean delicacies. The restaurant is open for delivery and takeout from 5 pm to 9 pm. You can find the restaurant on UberEats as well. 154 SE 1st Avenue, Miami, FL – (786) 773-2742
Ella’s Oyster Bar
A seafood destination in Little Havana, Ella’s Oyster Bar is openfor curbside and takeout orders. You can check out their menu here and order by phone at (786) 332-4436.
Ironside Pizza
Ironside Pizza will be offering a limited menu for takeout from noon to 9 pm, as well as delivering through third-party vendors such as UberEats, Postmates, GrubHub and DoorDash. The pizzeria also offers pizza-making kits for more adventurous pizza lovers. The ten-dollar kit comes with dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, and flour and the 13-inch pizza can serve four to eight slices. 7580 NE 4th Court, Miami, FL 33138
Seaspice: Pick Up From The Dock and Curbside
Situated on the beautiful Miami River, Seaspice remains open for curbside pickups and pickups by yacht Friday through Sunday between noon and 8 pm. 422 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL – (305) 440-4200
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
Located in Downtown, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse now offers takeout and delivery through the restaurant. 315 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
Little Haiti and MiMo
Boia De
A popular spot in Little Haiti, Boia De is offering takeout and delivery Monday through Saturday fromnoon to 8 pm until further notice. You can place your order online here or call them at(305) 967-8866.
Phuc Yea
Phuc Yea is also open for delivery and takeout. The restaurant accepts order on their website starting at 6 pm. Use code CORONA10 for 10 percent discount on orders.
Key Biscayne
Costa Med: Delivery Only
Key Biscayne’s stellar Mediterranean restaurant, Costa Med is open for delivery orders from noon to 8 pm. 260 Crandon Blvd #46, Key Biscayne, FL – (305) 361-7575
Kazumi: Your Favorite Rolls, Delivered
Key Biscayne residents can still enjoy their favorite rolls from Kazumi. The restaurant remains open only for deliveries from noon to 8:30 pm. 260 Crandon Blvd #16, Key Biscayne, FL – (305) 361-2675
The Rusty Pelican
The Rusty Pelican is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12:30 to 6 pm with a limited menu. Curbside pickups are available through Whiskey Joe’s restaurant, located next door.
Coconut Grove
Ariete
A popular spot in Coconut Grove, Ariete is offering curbside pickup and delivery from 3 to 8 pm. You can check out their menu on Instagram account and order by calling (786) 615-3747.
Chug’s Diner
Chug’s Diner remains open for delivery and takeout along with grocery items from 8 am to 5 pm. Check out their instagram for bodega menu. You can call (786) 534-8722 to order.
Coral Gables
Zucca: Authentic Italian At Home
Satisfy your cravings for Italian food by ordering from Zucca in Coral Gables. The restaurant is open for delivery and curbside pickup. 162 Alcazar Avenue, Coral Gables, FL – (786) 580-3731
Don’t forget to check out the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (GMCVB) new initiative, Miami Eats to see more restaurants operating with delivery and takeout.
People watching on Miami Beach is fun – the 305 is home to a diverse cast of characters. It’s even more fun when you have great drinks and food along for the ride. And in a nutshell, that’s A Fish Called Avalon.
This Ocean Drive establishment gives guests a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of South Beach’s iconic street, all while providing a quality dining experience. While this part of the beach is often associated with tourist traps, A Fish Called Avalon proves that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover – or location. The seafood-focused eatery is a cut above the rest on the beach… and beyond.
A big reason for that: options galore. The vast menu covers all the bases when it comes to seafood – no palate is left unattended. Raw bar fans will drool over selections like the restaurant’s ceviche tasting and jumbo shrimp cocktail. Those who want to double down on this section can invest in the Seafood Festival, which lives up to its name: 24 oysters, 16 mussels, 12 shrimp, 2 whole Maine lobsters, lump crab meat salad… and more. Needless to say, bring a big party.
Crab-crusted grouper
While the tried-and-true items like Spanish octopus are delicious, A Fish Called Avalon really shines with its unique signature offerings. The restaurant’s Bang Bang Shrimp features a turmeric curry spice mix and mint yogurt sauce that starts off refreshing before hitting your palate with a nice, little kick – it’s a “best of both worlds” situation. Just as impressive is the crab-crusted grouper with a Chenin blanc butter sauce. The combination of flavors from this duo results in a vibrant entrée that warrants its $40+ price tag.
If you only follow one of our recommendations, make it this one: order the key lime pie. Yes, key lime pies are a dime a dozen in South Florida, but odds are you haven’t had one like this – it’s the 2019 National Pie Champion for a reason. That reason is the pecan crust, which replaces the typical graham crust you’re accustomed to. The resultant crunch and change in flavor should perk your taste buds right up.
Pecan-crusted key lime pie
Your dining experience at A Fish Called Avalon wouldn’t be complete without one of their handcrafted cocktails. FYI: Many of the mixed drinks are on the sweeter side; apple martinis, mojitos, daiquiris and the like should be expected. But guests who like their drinks with some edge need not fear, as A Fish Called Avalon boasts a notable lineup of single malts, ryes, and bourbons (plus other spirits, of course). Looking to save a few dollars? The restaurant hosts a daily happy hour from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with discounted drinks and complimentary bites.
Whether you visit during happy hour for a few drinks or come for a full-fledged dinner, you can expect a consistent experience at A Fish Called Avalon – one filled with tasty seafood, refreshing (or stiff) cocktails, and a great view of the interesting people that frequent the beach. Oh, and did we mention there’s live music regularly? Just make a reservation already.
It wasn’t always a life goal for Ilkay Suuctugu to be a chef, but once she stepped foot in the kitchen, there was no going back. Born and raised in Turkey, Suuctugu studied Culinary Science and Hospitality Management before moving to America to work as a Prep Cook for the Marriott Hutchinson Island Beach Resort, Golf & Marina. She barely knew English then, but by 2010, after a lot of hard work and talent in the kitchen, she had worked her way up to Banquet Chef, where she was executing large-scale events at that same property.
Fast-forward to 2019, when Suuctugu’s skill and determination led to her appointment as Sous Chef at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, as well as Sous Chef of Tropicale at The Miami Beach EDITION, and later, Executive Sous Chef of all The Miami Beach EDITION’s food and beverage outlets. In between, she assisted with the opening of The Bodrum EDITION (Turkey) and The Times Square EDITION (NYC), was named Global Chef of the Year 2018 for all Marriott International properties and was even selected to present as part of an Executive Tasting Panel for Marriott Chairman Bill Marriott and CEO Arne Sorenson.
Today, Suuctugu reigns as Executive Chef of Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Matador Room. And while we still have her here in the Magic City, we sat down with the rising star—because a star is exactly what she is—to find out more about her life in the kitchen. Here’s what she had to say:
DO: “What inspired you to become a chef? Do you remember the moment you decided to make it a career?” IS: “Becoming a chef was not my plan. However, when I landed in a kitchen, I felt at home and found my comfort zone. With each day that passed, my passion for cooking grew. It was then that I decided to pursue a career in the culinary world.”
“Coming from Turkey, what was the biggest challenge you faced in becoming a chef in the United States?” “Being from a different background, the language barrier was the biggest challenge. Also, as a new cook, I had to learn different techniques and cooking methods I didn’t know before.”
“Do you have a favorite dish on the menu at Matador Room? If so, what is it?” “My favorite dish on the menu is the Crispy Octopus with a toasted seed yogurt dressing. It reminds me of home!”
“What’s the one kitchen tool you can’t live without, and why?” “My Chef’s Knife is one of my most precious kitchen tools, as each recipe requires a specific cut in order to be executed properly.”
“What is your absolute favorite thing about helming the kitchen at Matador Room?” “It means so much to me to be able to inspire and motivate my team and share my knowledge with them. My hope is that, by working together, they all become better chefs.”
“What advice do you have for other female chefs trying to get where you are today?” “I say this to any female chef: You should speak up and have your voice heard! Don’t be shy or compare yourself to others. Let people see who you truly are and what you are capable of. Although kitchens are mostly run by men, we as women shouldn’t be scared to show our skills, accomplish our goals, and be successful, too.”
Step inside Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann at Faena Miami Beach Hotel, and prepare yourself for a meal that tantalizes all the senses. This Argentine restaurant from the internationally renowned chef covers all the bases when it comes to an unforgettable dining experience: exceptional food, service, and ambiance.
Here are four things you need to know about this Mid-Beach gem:
It’s All About the Open-Fire Kitchen
If the name Francis Mallmann sounds familiar, you’re likely a fan of 1) good food and/or 2) the Netflix series Chef’s Table. Mallmann appeared in the series’ inaugural season, where viewers learned about his love of the grill and fire-based cooking.
So it’s no surprise that his first restaurant in the states showcases that love. Guests are treated to a wide variety of proteins cooked on the grill, including prime beef tenderloin, Australian lamb rack and hanging prime boneless ribeye. As you’d expect from Mallmann, there’s a huge emphasis on red meat here. If that’s what you’re craving, you’ll be hard pressed to find more flavorful options anywhere else.
Wood Oven Empanada
Expect Quite the First Impression
High ceilings, magnificent chandeliers, and swashes of red and gold are among the first things you’ll notice when you visit; it’s like stepping onto a movie set. This space feels huge, yet despite its size, it also feels surprisingly intimate. While the first impression we got was “This is a special occasion place,” we left our meal thinking,“We need to come back as quickly as possible.”
During our visit, we saw everyone from couples and parties to tourists and celebrities and everyone in between. All are welcome, and it was interesting to see such a diverse crowd on a regular weekday evening. The best part: Everyone received the same attentive service around us. The wait staff didn’t seem to miss a beat.
These Prices … Wow
We’d be lying if we said we weren’t expecting fine-dining prices a Los Fuegos. So imagine our surprise when we sat down and saw that its prices were affordable (and honestly, a steal). Yes, there are entrees like the tomahawk and porterhouse with prices in the triple digits, but given their size, that’s expected. The $160 parrillada — a crowd favorite — is big enough for a party of four; it comes with skirt steak, ribeye, blood sausage, lamb and various accompaniments. As a party of 2, we had leftovers for a few days.
But as we stated earlier, those dishes are the exception: Most entrees run in the high $20 to high $40 range and are large enough to share. Appetizers clock in at even lower, with Mallmann’s famous empanadas among the most inexpensive selections at $8. We’re partial to the pink grapefruit salad, though. On that note …
Pink Grapefruit Salad
Meat Isn’t Everything Here
When you think of Argentine cuisine, meat is usually the first thing that comes to mind. And while it’s indeed the focus of Los Fuegos, there are plenty of alternatives to go around for non-meat enthusiasts. In addition to the pink grapefruit salad — which we can’t stop thinking about it — guests should consider the Mediteranean branzino with herbed quinoa salad as well as the roasted cauliflower, two selections touted by our server. A fish version of the parrillada is available should you feel like splurging; this one comes with the branzino, octopus, snapper and local lobster.
In the end, there is no wrong choice at Los Fuegos. All palates are represented here, and no matter what you order, you can expect a world-class dining experience backed by a world-class chef. As for us, we’re busy setting up our next reservation.
Miami is home to a plethora of Mediterranean and Italian restaurants, but not all are created equal. Located at the heart of South Beach and one of its nicest neighborhoods Sunset Harbour, Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante rises above the others with its unique atmosphere, quality food, and an excellent selection of wine.
The spacious restaurant is decorated with warm and cozy colors and the lighting is on par with the decoration to create that welcoming feeling for diners. Tables are cleverly spread out across the restaurant and there is ample space to accommodate large groups. That’s why it’s popular among locals to celebrate special occasions and host events here. There’s also a more secluded area for diners who seek a more intimate dining experience, which makes the restaurant an ideal destination for a first date, or a romantic night out. Like most restaurants in Sunset Harbor, Sardinia has tables outside for those who want to breathe in the breeze from the bay.
The restaurant’s rich menu is inspired by the rustic cuisine of chef and restaurateur Pietro Vardeu’s native Sardinia. Unlike many others, Sardinia displays a wood oven in the middle of the restaurant and the staff proudly suggests anything wood oven-baked from the menu. Salumeria, the delicatessen section on the menu, offers fresh cold cuts and the Italian cheese you will fall in love with. The Mozzarella bar is rich with options you cannot resist.
When it comes to pasta, Sardinia manages to step forward among other restaurants in Miami as well. The housemade pastas are tastefully matched with seafood like baby clams and squid or red meat selections such as veal or boar sausages. The restaurant also takes pride in its couscous. All these dishes are enriched with Mediterranean spices and sauces such as saffron and pesto.
The best way to experience what Sardinia has to offer is to go with the tasting menu. A seven-course culinary journey, the restaurant’s tasting menu combines dishes like arancini, fregola lamb meatballs, and paella di mare, Sardinian couscous with fresh seafood. Every dish is paired with an outstanding glass of Italian wine.
As expected, Sardinia boasts an impressive selection of over 250 primarily Italian wines and a lively full bar with an array of beers and cocktails. This makes the restaurant a go-to spot for locals to enjoy drinks before dinner, after-work happy hours, and weekend brunches.
Considering the menu, the location, the service, and all, there are so many reasons to become a fan of Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante. Are you ready to meet your new favorite Italian in town?
Celebrating a special occasion? Need to impress a date? Just want some great food? Lobster Bar Sea Grille is what you’re looking for: This South Beach gem serves up a superb menu of seafood classics and favorites in a gorgeous upscale setting. If you’re going to splurge, this is the place to do it.
Before setting foot into Lobster Bar Sea Grille, you should know that there is a dress code. Yes, this is South Beach, but while tank tops and shorts may be the norm outside, it’s best to change into something a bit more appropriate for a dinner here. When you walk in, you’ll immediately see why: It’s a classy establishment, and you’re going to look a bit out of place in an oversized t-shirt.
Once you’ve dressed to the nines, you’re all set for some amazing seafood. Lobster Bar Sea Grille’s wide selection of mouth-watering fare can appear daunting at first — it all sounds so good — but as you’d expect from a place of such high caliber, the jovial staff is more than happy to help you navigate the offerings.
Tomato and Feta Salad
There’s no shortage of starters to begin your meal on a high note. Guests can keep things light with a to-die-for ahi tuna tartare or a refreshing tomato salad or indulge in lightly fried lobster morsels and jumbo lump crab cakes. On ice, an order of the Key West Stone Crab Claws is a must; the menu describes them as colossal, and this description is 100% accurate — they are so MASSIVE that even we were taken aback by the size. Larger parties should consider the shellfish tower that comes with cold water oysters, seafood ceviche, Alaskan king crab and more delectable items.
With a name like Lobster Bar Sea Grille, it’s no surprise that the restaurant puts the crustacean front and center on its menu. Preparations vary: You can select a whole lobster steamed and cracked, spice things up with a whole chili lobster, or enjoy it in pasta. There’s also the Jumbo Lobster Tail, which the brand made popular back in the 70s.
While the lobster is the eatery’s claim to fame, its variety of whole fish should be on your radar as well — especially if you’re interested in dinner and a show. Dover sole Meuniere, arctic char and branzino are just a few of the options available, and regardless of your choice, the staff will filet it tableside. It’s a fun experience, and the result is a fantastic piece of fish. Throw in a side of hashed potato tots, glazed brussels sprouts or buttery Yukon mash — all of which can feed multiple people — and you have yourself dinner (and probably lunch the next day).
Ahi Tuna Tartare
Lobster Bar Sea Grille hasn’t forgotten about meat-eaters. The impressive steak roster is a testament to that, with flavorful selections like barrel-cut filet mignon, A5 wagyu, and tomahawk long bone ribeye. It’s hard not to want them all, and that sentiment extends to desserts. Profiteroles and the tropical pavlova — crisp meringue, passion fruit mousse, and exotic sorbet — are a few of the highlights on a sweets selection that also includes the likes of cheesecake, brownie sundae and apple crumb pie. Goodbye, diet.
No matter the occasion, Lobster Bar Sea Grille provides diners with an unparalleled luxury dining experience. It’s hard not to walk in — and out — impressed with the attention to detail in terms of staff, food, and ambiance. You get what you pay for, and at Lobster Bar Sea Grille, that means a phenomenal meal.
Ingredients – 2 1/2 c vegetable stock – 2 Tbsp unsalted butter – 1 small onion, minced (about 1/2 c) – 1 c Arborio rice – 1/2 c dry white wine – 6 Extra Jumbo Shrimp (size 16/20), cleaned and deveined – 4 oz calamari, cleaned and cut into thin rings – 1 Maine lobster tail (8 oz) – 1/2 c plum tomatoes, peeled, crushed, and seeded – 1/2 c fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped – 1/2 tsp garlic, chopped – 4 oz olive oil – 1/2 c freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano – 1 Tbsp salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm vegetable stock. In a large saucepan over low heat, warm olive oil. Add onion to a large saucepan and sauté, stirring occasionally to allow the onion to sweat for about 5 minutes. Add rice and stir for another 5 minutes. At this point, the rice and onions should be a little translucent—do not let them take on any color. Add wine, and cook until almost completely absorbed. Add 3/4 cup of vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Cook the risotto, stirring occasionally until rice has absorbed some of the liquid and is al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Taste the rice; if it is too hard, then add more of the remaining vegetable stock. When rice is al dente, add garlic, shrimp, calamari, lobster, salt, pepper, and tomatoes. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until seafood is cooked. Remove risotto from heat and add Parmigiano-Reggiano and butter. Stir well to release starches and give the risotto a creamy texture. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Setai Unplugged presented by The Macallan at The Setai
Saturday nights at the world-famous courtyard at The Setai on Miami Beach are now elevated even higher with the brand-new dining experience presented by The Macallan. During Setai Unplugged, diners can enjoy an artfully curated “Essences of Oak” Pan-Asian dinner menu paired with bespoke cocktails, meaning the distinguished flavor profile of The Macallan Rare Cask is infused through the entire four-course meal. This elegant experience is further amplified by live musical performances and sounds from The Setai’s resident DJ. Sunday-Thursday, 6-10 pm; Friday-Saturday, 6-11 pm. thesetaihotels.com
Apertivo at Prima Classe Wednesday Evenings
An authentic Italian market and cafe located in the South of Fifth neighborhood, Prima Classe is living up to its name by offering “first-class” imported Italian goods and a weekly Apertivo. Connecting friends and neighbors in a cozy environment with a fixed-price flow of wine and replenished spread of savory snacks and small plates every Wednesday from 6-9 pm, Prima Classe delivers the perfect environment for unwinding. Following Apertivo or any other day of the week, take to the market to bring home a variety of specialty sauces, oils, pasta, and much more. Founded in 2017 by Paolo Orsolini, Prima Classe showcases quality Italian imports that you can take home for later or enjoy right there at the cafe. primaclasse.com
Musimelange (January 27-April 6, 2020)
French violinist Anne Chicheportiche’s inspiration for founding Musimelange—a multi-sensory concert experience in its Ninth Season at the Design District’s M Building—comes from her French roots. Musimelange pairs chamber music with gastronomy and wine tasting in order to recreate the tradition of France’s Belle Epoque, when public figures, artists, writers, and musicians met and gathered in hopes of inspiring ideas and creativity. Each month features a new restaurant providing luscious bites and a musical performer to serenade guests. The dates for the 2020 season are Jan. 27, Feb. 17, March 9, and April 6. Concerts begin at 7:30 pm and tickets are $55 online and $65 at the door. musimelange.com
Party with a Purpose (February 1, 2020)
While the attention will be on the field in 2020 when Miami hosts the Super Bowl, don’t miss out on all events happening around South Florida. Take the star-studded Party with a Purpose, for instance, taking place Feb. 1 at the Broward County Convention Center. Chef Andrew Zimmern, Chef Adam Richman, and legendary former Miami Dolphins head coach Don Shula will all be hosting Taste of the NFL. Proceeds from this exceptional culinary event go toward food banks and hunger-related nonprofit organizations; to date, more than $26 million has been raised. tasteofthenfl.com
Doral Food and Wine Festival (March 21-22, 2020)
Back for its fourth year, the Doral Food and Wine Festival continues to grow. The two-day event, March 21-22, 2020 at Doral Central Park, is expected to once again bring in thousands of attendees. The springtime festival will feature more than 30 restaurants from Doral and around South Florida, providing bite-size samples and small plates of every eatery’s best dish, along with a Beer Garden and spirits booth. And, don’t miss the culinary and mixology demonstrations as well as musical entertainment and a fun Kids’ Zone. The Doral Food and Wine Festival, with its multifaceted entertainment and delight, support a great cause, as $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Returning once again for its 19th year, The Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) hosts a nationally-renowned, five-day destination event featuring the talents of the world’s most celebrated chefs, culinary personalities and wine and spirits producers. The star-studded Festival will run February 19-23, 2020 and is composed of an unprecedented lineup of more than 100 events spanning Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. With a variety of new offerings and the return of the Festival’s iconic white tents nestled on the sands of Miami Beach, this year’s edition boasts the most robust event roster yet. To date, the Festival has raised more than $30 million in support of its mission to EAT. DRINK. EDUCATE., benefiting the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU).
Buddy & Lisa Valastro & guests at Family Ice Cream Social hosted by Cake Boss Buddy Valastro – 2019 Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival at Loews Miami Beach Hotel on February 24, 2019 in Miami Beach, Florida
-PHOTO by: Seth Browarnik/WorldRedEye.com
Prior to becoming one of the best-known culinary festivals in the U.S., the Festival originated from humble beginnings. From the initial, modest showcasing of both national and international wineries alongside Miami’s local restaurant and chef creations, and in collaboration with students from the Chaplin School, the now-extravaganza made exponential growth. Not without the vision and ambition of Founder and Director Lee Brian Schrager, though; it was his idea to relocate the Festival to South Beach and thus breathe into it new life.
The renamed South Beach Wine & Food Festival® was then held in March of 2002 and attracted close to 7,000 guests, providing a series of dinners, seminars, a Grand Tasting Village, the debut of the BubbleQ®, and a live auction—all in its first year. Now, the Festival attracts more than 65,000 guests annually to its 100+ events throughout the five-day event, which takes place at various locations throughout South Florida.
For foodies wondering where to start, we suggest kicking off your Festival lineup with signature fan-favorites such as the Heineken Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray, or Fontainebleau Miami Beach presents Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best, which features 60 of the nation’s top chefs and over 100 wines rated 90 points or higher on Wine Spectator’s scale. This year’s festival will also see the return of the popular CRAVE Greater Fort Lauderdale Series, a variety of curated experiences designed to showcase some of the best of Broward County. This includes the addition of the family-friendly Foodie Movie Night in the Park event, taking place both Saturday and Sunday of the Festival weekend in the City of Hallandale Beach. This diverse weekend of culinary and beverage celebration will also contain a slew of musical performances including American Idol winner Laine Hardy, the Nu Deco Ensemble with a special guest performance by GRAMMY Award-winner Rev Run, as well as the return of the wildly popular David Grutman Experience at the Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village.
The 19th annual Festival lineup also offers a variety of new events for $100 or less, including the Chef Mash-Up hosted by The Naughty Fork; Sip & Dips hosted by Adam Richman; Croquetas & Cocktails hosted by Eileen & Jonathan Andrade; and Miami Design District presents Sliced: A Genuine Pizza Party hosted by Michael Schwartz. Fans will, of course, have their pick from the exclusive selection of masterclasses, intimate dinners, and walk-around tastings with some of the world’s most talented chefs and lifestyle personalities.
This year’s Tribute Dinner, presented by Capital One®, will be part of The NYT Cooking Dinner Series with Andrew Zimmern and Melba Wilson serving as the Masters of Ceremonies. Zimmern and Wilson will oversee an evening paying homage to the outstanding accomplishments of the culinary community’s beloved Chef Marcus Samuelsson and beverage industry’s revered leader, Jim Clerkin. Samuelsson is a highly acclaimed chef and international restaurateur with over 30 restaurant locations across the world. Clerkin currently serves as president and CEO of Moët Hennessy North America and will transition to a new role as president of Moët Hennessy’s strategic development. Tickets are now on sale for SOBEWFF® 2020 can be found online, sobewff.org
