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Key West Food & Wine Festival 2021

Culinary

Published 1/12/21

Set for Wednesday through Sunday, January 27th through the 31st, the festival’s indoor and outdoor events showcase local chefs’ culinary flair, tempting libations and distinctive Florida Keys atmosphere.Attendees can whet their appetites for island-style excellence at waterfront tastings, winemaker/chef collaborations and food-related adventures such as an absinthe tasting inspired by literary legend Ernest Hemingway, a Key West resident during the 1930s.According to event organizer Mark Certonio, all local coronavirus health protocols are to be followed during the festival, including social distancing and the wearing of facial coverings as mandated.Planned highlights are to include the “Indulge” Grand Tasting set for 5-7 p.m. Thursday, January 28th, at the Southernmost Beach Resort (enter at 508 South St.). Attractions are to include more than 50 wines for sampling, culinary creations on the beach and a subtropical sunset.Friday’s standouts include “Meet Mote Marine,” a …

GMCVB programs extended

Culinary

Published 9/25/20

The programs will now go through October 31st, enabling Miamians and visitors to enjoy dining, pampering and cultural experiences, while helping business and organizations generate revenue and support jobs in a safe and responsible way.The three programs are integral parts of Miami Shines, a comprehensive travel and tourism recovery program to promote Greater Miami and the Beaches to locals, encouraging vacationing in their backyard. The program includes a strong lineup of promotional incentives across restaurants, hotels, spas, museums and attractions, and was rolled out as a phased approach in line with the County’s parameters for reopening.“With our vibrant destination gaining some semblance of normalcy, we heard from our partners and the public that they shared a desire to continue this programming,” said William D. Talbert, III, CDME, President & CEO of the GMCVB. “Between Miami Spice, Spa offers, hotel offers and Attraction & Museum benefits, there are endless …

Miami Spice is back!

Culinary

Published 6/12/20

The advance launch of Miami Spice is one of the GMCVB’s many efforts to support Miamians during this critical time, and this year, draws a parallel to the program’s start as a post 9/11 recovery effort. It also comes on the heels of the highly successful Miami Eats campaign that debuted in March to encourage take-out and delivery, and ordering direct. It started with just 320 restaurant partners and quickly grew to 1,200.Miami Spice is a cornerstone of Miami Shines, a comprehensive travel and tourism recovery program to promote Greater Miami and the Beaches to locals, encouraging vacationing in their backyard, as well as tourists and organizations seeking locations for meetings and conventions. The program includes a strong lineup of promotional incentives across restaurants, hotels, museums, and attractions, and will also include spas once they are ready to reopen for business.“The GMCVB remains wholly committed to upholding the stellar reputation of this program and continuing …

at-home food & beverage inspiration suggestions

Culinary

Published 5/4/20

How to throw a virtual cocktail party: It's time to put some "social" into your social distancing. Thanks to the wonders of technology, we can still honor the ritual, even while adhering to social distancing rules. So get ready to raise a glass—we're bringing you everything you need to throw the most spectacular virtual cocktail party of 2020. Mix it up: 10 great Instagram pages for at-home cocktails. Cocktail culture has never been more relevant during this time of quarantine. If you’re stuck making the same uninspired gin and tonic, consider expanding your tipples repertoire by following these mixmasters for inspiration.Easy cocktail recipes for all your virtual happy hours. Now more than ever, most of us probably need a drink to get us through the hard times. Here are a few cocktail recipes that you can show off during your next virtual happy hour.These THREE ingredient (or less!) cocktails will be a hit for your next virtual happy hour. Now that you've eased into the practice …

GMCVB Launches ‘MIAMI EATS’ Program to support Restaurant recovery.

Culinary

Published 3/26/20

Miami Eats by the GMCVB was conceived to help restaurants inform patrons of their takeout and delivery offerings, and ultimately, stimulate business for locals’ beloved restaurants and most importantly – their owners, chefs and employees.With 270 restaurants listed and counting, Miami Eats by the GMCVB offers endless opportunities to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even wine, beer and cocktails, from Miami’s favorite restaurants. Some restaurants are new to dining out and some are offering affordable family meals, gourmet make-at-home meal kits, free desserts and special discounts, making this an opportunity for locals to satisfy palates while helping local businesses.“In this time of uncertainty, the GMCVB’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of residents and the local hospitality industry remains steadfast,” said William D. Talbert III, C.D.M.E., President and CEO of the GMCVB. “We are committed to striking a balance between responsible promotion of the local …

FOODIE DIARIES: Raise a glass to the iconic wine expert, James Suckling!

Culinary

Published 2/21/20

“This is a very special event for me as it is the first of its kind in North America following numerous successful events in Asia over the years that attracted thousands of keen wine lovers, wine trade members and hundreds of the best wineries in the world,” said James Suckling. “It’s never been a better time to drink wine in the United States with fabulous bottles being produced in all major wine countries.”Droves of wine lovers sipped and savored the world’s finest wines, mingled in person with Suckling, were gifted an exclusive crystal James Suckling x Lalique glass, and chatted with winemakers and sommeliers to learn more above their vintages. The wine expert, who has been using the 100-point scale system for decades, considers wines rated 90 points or more to be “outstanding.” The best part? Much to the delight of attending wine aficionados, all wines on hand scored 90-100 points with a majority scoring 95+!Wine producers were front and center pouring unlimited …

Boca Bacchanal 2020 IS BACK!

Culinary

Published 1/15/20

BB 2020 is expected to draw over 1600 residents and visitors from throughout South Florida. The theme of this year's Grand Tasting will be Wine Country. Bacchanal 2020 will bring together world-class chefs from all over the United States, distinguished vintners from all over the world, and a host of enticing interactive experiences.Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy scrumptious food and refreshing libations, while supporting an extremely worthy cause. The funds that are raised will go towards the BRHS&M's heritage education programs for adults and children. Last year's Boca Bacchanal was a resounding success and raised over $225,000.Since its inception in 2003, the Boca Bacchanal has supported the Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum.100 percent of the proceeds will fund innovative and diverse heritage education programs for residents, students, and visitors. These programs are now serving upwards of 1200 schoolchildren each year with impactful experiences in historic …

FOODIE DIARIES: La Placita

Culinary

Published 1/8/20

By Daisy CabreraAt first glance, you’re drawn to La Placita’s enormous mural by Puerto Rican artist Héctor Collazo – the island’s flag covering the corner building’s façade. The eatery’s décor and walls burst with bright colors, lush tropical plants take up every corner of the space, an adorable onsite marketplace sells everything from coffee and canned ham to rice and cookies, festive tunes by Marc Anthony and Héctor Lavoe fill the air with vibrant music, and you’ll even hear the tunes of a symbolic coquí (Puerto Rico’s native tiny frogs) in the bathrooms.Co-owned by Executive Chef José Mendín and big screen, theater and TV actor Julián Gil, a trip to this MiMo District gem feels like a trip to Puerto Rico minus the airfare. Mendín is a culinary maestro (and five-time James Beard Award semifinalist) who moved to Miami from Puerto Rico over two decades ago. The well-known Gil was born in Argentina and raised in Puerto Rico.Mendín described the beloved …

A world of Italian food and wine under one roof? Mamma mia!

Culinary

Published 1/2/20

By Daisy CabreraThe great Federico Fellini once said, “Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” And, may we add Italian wine? This enchanting affair, which offered mouth-watering samplings of traditional and modern cuisine, went beyond the palate. It was a love letter to Italy, and a bona fide cultural representation of the country’s heart and soul.IACCSE’s Executive Director Nevio Boccanera said, “The Italian culture holds hundreds of years of tradition in creating specialty products that cannot be reproduced abroad – that is because of the strong tie between Italian products and their territory of origin. This includes environmental and climate factors, as well as the artisan tradition of food and wine producers.”Considered the chamber’s biggest event, it took place during the ‘Week of the Italian Cuisine in the World’ coordinated in the Southeast by the Consulate Generalof Italy. Boccanera shared the food and beverage industry is very significant for Italian …

CUBAN-INSPIRED COCKTAILS MEET CONTEMPORARY CUISINE

Culinary

Published 9/5/19

By Daisy CabreraAs Hispanic Heritage Month is upon us, we’re thrilled to feature an old school meets new school restaurant that sits in the heart of Little Havana - Café La Trova. Showcasing Cuban and globally-inspired dishes with a unique, modern approach, it’s headed by the renown Maestro CantineroJulio Cabrera alongside James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein and her restaurateur-husband David Martinez. The Cuban-born Cabrera, who grew up watching his father bartend, found his calling as a “Cantinero” - an expert bartender who thoughtfully creates craft cocktails while fashioning the drinking experience into a stylish and sophisticated one. His resume is worldly, extensive and impressive: working across multiple countries, winning several cocktail competitions, and representing top shelf spirits. The result of his collaboration with Chef Bernstein at her previous establishment, Sra. Martinez was prestigious recognition as “one of the 100 best bars in America.” …

Two Month Miami Spice = Twice As Nice!

Culinary

Published 8/8/19

By Daisy CabreraEnough to whet any foodie's appetite, GMCVB hosted an exclusive Miami Spice Kickoff & Heritage Showcase on July 31 at Jungle Island. Miami Spice is part of their Miami Temptations year-round program which includes Miami Arts & Heritage Months, Miami Health & Wellness Months, Miami Attractions & Museums Months, Miami Hotels Months, Miami Spa Months and Miami Entertainment Months.“Over the course of 18 years, the ‘Miami Spice’ program has evolved into a culinary movement celebrating the best in Greater Miami’s food scene” said GMCVB President and CEO William D. Talbert, III, CDME. “We’re thrilled this program not only gives diners the opportunity to sample signature dishes by world-class chefs but also offers exceptional seasonal savings to visitors and locals alike.”The well-attended sneak preview of the two-month culinary celebration was buzzing with excitement, art activations, and hungry guests visiting rows upon rows of restaurant …

Foodie Diaries: THE VIBRANCY THAT IS VERDE

Culinary

Published 5/1/19

Sit indoors, or enjoy the gorgeous nature-inspired veranda to relish lush, shaded surroundings: sub-tropical hanging gardens, hypnotic blue waters, glorious clear skies, and a warm breeze brushing your skin. Ahhh!  The gigantic deck, located on the east terrace, offers a leisurely experience for everyone to take pleasure in - from kids playing and folks relaxing on lounge chairs, to teens enjoying the swings and couples taking selfies on the steps.The best part? The vibrant views complement the vibrant eats. Verde’s menu is bursting with a mouth-watering culinary variety of locally inspired New American dishes, including family-friendly plates.“Kaytlin Dangaran, Executive Chef of Museum Park, draws the majority of her inspiration for the menu from the changing of the seasons. Whatever ingredients are most fresh or in season really come to the forefront when composing new dishes,” said John Dangaran, Verde’s Restaurant Manager. “From there, it’s all about …

FOODIE DIARIES - MERCI CAFÉ BOULUD, MERCI.

Culinary

Published 4/2/19

By Daisy CabreraOriginally built in 2003 and redesigned in 2015, the timeless fine-dining restaurant matches the landmark’s sheer glamour, warmth and intimacy. And, the romantic and posh courtyard is an open-air oasis complete with statuesque palm trees, an elegant fountain and plenty of tropical foliage. Café Boulud’s gourmet French-American cuisine (with a loving nod to South Florida) is as upscale as its swank, nostalgia-inducing setting. You wouldn’t expect anything less from the world-renowned chef and iconic visionary hailing from Lyon who has enjoyed a four-decade career including: building a global gastronomic empire, earning multiple Michelin stars, authoring numerous books, and winning several James Beard Foundation awards among his many achievements.Headed by the highly recognized and award-winning Executive Chef Rick Mace - who has worked alongside Boulud for years - let’s obsess over the exceptional, seasonal ingredient-driven cuisine. But, before we …

FOODIE DIARIES - Café Prima Pasta is as Old School Italian as it Gets

Culinary

Published 3/26/19

By Daisy CabreraGrazie Café Prima Pasta for always being our go-to. With its plentitude of outdoor and indoor seating, a daily happy hour, charming hospitality, expert service, and endless Italian dishes to devour, it’s no wonder this popular establishment continues to wow almost three decades later.Family-owned and operated, the award-winning Café Prima Pasta is headed by Gerardo “Gerry” Cea (Founder) overseeing operations alongside Fabian (brother), Arturo (father) serving as Executive Chef, and Carla (mother) baking fresh breads and desserts daily. They consider their staff of 50 “family.”“When we first opened in 1993, it was a cash only restaurant that sat 28 and served beer and wine,” said Gerry Cea. “Today, we seat 150 across four different dining areas and offer a full bar.” The eclectic décor and dim lighting makes this cozy, full-service eatery feel like home - everything from decadent chandeliers, Moroccan lamps and wood ceiling beams to hanging …

FOODIE DIARIES – BALL & CHAIN – CUBAN MORSELS, MUSIC AND MUCH MORE!

Culinary

Published 2/19/19

By Daisy CabreraBall & Chain not only sits in the heart of all this lively energy, it brings flavorful sazon to this go-to neighborhood. And, we’re completely enamored with this beloved haunt!Zack Bush, co-owner of Ball & Chain and Mad Room Hospitality, shared his love for Little Havana and its people. “Little Havana is this incredible darling of a community, and Little Havana is what it is today - vibrant, authentic, alive - because of its incredible people.”Before we praise the yummy food, let’s start with Ball & Chain’s musical legacy. Grab your guayabera and get ready to groove to everything from jazz, clave, son and rumba to salsa, mambo and even Afro-Cuban funk. (Don't miss their free, weekly dance classes!)This iconic locale, built in the early 1930s, is synonymous with music. In fact, Ball & Chain offers 100 hours of live music - for free - every single week! Between the inside area and outdoor “Pineapple Stage”, countless singers and …

FOODIE DIARIES - Soya & Pomodoro - Simple food made with love

Culinary

Published 1/30/19

In 2004, co-owners Rosario Magrelli and Cristian D’Oria opened Soya & Pomodoro in a former bank originally built in 1945. Nestled narrowly between two storefronts, the reclaimed space resembles an alleyway – giving new meaning to the term “hidden gem.”Love is in the air with the delightful sounds of live music that fill the space, from Cuban rhythms to pure jazz, performed nightly Thursdays – Saturdays. Then there’s the eclectic, curious and completely charming décor: wrought-iron entrance, dim lighting, terrazzo floors, antique furniture, quirky knickknacks, and bohemian art throughout – complete with a laundry line hanging high above.Their love, passion, and appreciation for their country inspired the rustic setting, Magrelli shared. “We wanted to recreate a typical vision of traditional Italian houses, where clothing lines separate two neighbors. The overall ambiance and atmosphere emulate the Italian feel we want to share with our clients – cozy and …

Foodie Diaries - Artisan Beach House Waterfront dining at its finest

Culinary

Published 12/27/18

The upscale Artisan Beach House offers up a plethora of delicious dishes, glorious ocean views at sunrise, and romantic bayside views at sunset. A fabulously chic restaurant, it is set inside the award-winning, 5-star Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour. Heaven on earth, truly.While taking in the view, let’s start with a cocktail, shall we? The Smoked Orange Blossom, a bourbon-based beauty served on the rocks, arrives in a glass dome. Take in this fruit-forward drink’s smoke and fragrant smells of orange marmalade, simple syrup and distinct orange bitters. It’s divine.There are plenty of small, incredible bites to launch into this culinary journey. The Charred Octopus is a tender tentacle bursting of flavors that play to all the senses. It shares the plate with Tandoori-style carrots, blended Vadouvan spices, mango and curry sauce, dollops of sour yogurt and touch of fresh cilantro. It’s a mouth-feel of goodness.The Cobia Ceviche is simple perfection. Thinly sliced, firm white fish with a …

Foodie Diaries - FOR THE LOVE AND ART OF FOOD - ART WEEK EDITION

Culinary

Published 11/27/18

By Daisy CabreraEndless frolicking through South Beach and Wynwood’s satellite fairs is guaranteed to work up anyone’s appetite. So, after consuming all that art, it’s time to consume some delicious grub. We’ve got you covered!A classic American standard, aptly named after the award-winning Executive Chef Laurent Tourondel, this is where you want to eat, period. The warm, earth-toned space is filled with a curated collection of artistic black and white prints with a sprinkle of mirrors. Just as welcoming is the live nightly jazz, the longest running jazz series in Miami Beach.First to arrive at your table is a steamy basket of super-sized, and quite scrumptious popovers. Served with warm butter, this hollow bread showcases a perfectly golden brown crust. Made with three cheeses (emmental, gruyere, fontina) and a hint of cracked black pepper, it’s an exemplary taste of the food to come. Brace yourself. Wine lovers will delight in LT Steak & Seafood plentitude of …

20 reasons to go to this restaurant before Miami Spice ends

Culinary

Published 9/20/18

By Daisy CabreraIf you haven’t tried authentic churrasco, get ready for some serious deliciousness as this churrascaria serves up the best Brazilian-style barbecue outside of Southern Brazil. A wide variety of the finest cuts of meats are seasoned, skewed and roasted over an open flame on a churrasqueira grill, and Fogo de Chão stays true to this centuries-old traditional Gaucho cooking technique.Boy do we have unlimited love for all this unlimited meat! Roaming gaucho chefs, dressed in full garb, use gigantic swords to skillfully carve fresh slivers and chunks of glistening meat from the metal skewers right onto your plate. The warm setting is inviting: flaming fireplace, wide-open room, dark wood panels, soft lighting. And, the high level of attention and non-stop feast of high quality eats is just as welcoming.With 39 locations spread across the country, the upscale Fogo de Chão’s Miami Beach location opened 10 years ago. Sommelier Alex Burgos shared, “The wine menu is …

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, one bite at a time

Culinary

Published 8/30/18

By Daisy CabreraAt La Mar by Gastón Acurio, exquisite taste is timeless. The five-star menu features the cuisine of award-winning Chef Gastón Acurio as presented by Executive Chef Diego Oka. The expert chef spent time at various Acurio-owned establishments across global cities, and here he brings the finest in Peruvian gastronomy.Sit outside for dinner, and enjoy the sweeping views while sipping on classic Pisco Sours. The juxtaposition of Brickell’s high-rises in the horizon, glistening Biscayne Bay waters, and an Art-Deco-inspired Miami sunset sky will take your breath away. All the while, La Mar’s dishes are gorgeously presented against this gorgeous backdrop. This is a vacation, friends.The Bachiche dish is an extraordinary Tiradito. Sashimi-style slices of fresh snapper meet leche de tigre (a citrus-based marinade), colatura (fish sauce), and basil oil basking in aged parmesan cheese and topped with darkly-colored garlic chips.With several unique cebiche options featuring …

Miami’s food halls are a feast for the palate

Culinary

Published 7/11/18

By Daisy CabreraFoodies rejoice! From sweet, savory, and salty eats to saturated, succulent and spicy dishes – Miami is a bon viveur playground of gastronomy. With the smorgasbord of food halls popping up, it’s quite easy to stuff yourself with whatever you fancy. First thing’s first – let’s explore the massive 40,000 square foot Italian food haven known as La Centrale. No passport needed to tour its three levels, 14 different restaurants and eateries. This is home to handpicked gems spanning food and wine regions (Sardinia, Tuscany, Sicily, Piedmont, Veneto, Puglia, etc.) Ciao bella!The ground floor is an Italian piazza with grab-and-go street food stations, and an outdoor terrace to bask in the warm sun. Roticceria has paninis and mini calzones waiting for you. At Focacceria, enjoy minestrone with a piadina classica. Insalate is salads galore, and add truffle cream, and crispy pancetta to those greens!The Expresso bar offers much more than macchiatos; such as …

Foodie Diaries - Kraken Crudo

Culinary

Published 12/28/17

We're always on the lookout for new, innovative eateries that are tucked away from the mainstream, hidden gems waiting to be discovered and appreciated for their fresh culinary take. After receiving a hot tip from a trusted foodie, we saddled-up and made our way down to Kraken Crudo, located in an unassuming strip mall. We weren't sure what to expect, but the idea of mashing-up Latin flavors with traditional sushi was definitely intriguing to our overactive palates and we were curious about Venezuelan Chef Samuel's creations. Once inside, we were immediately hooked by the small intimate vibe. There are just three tables and a small counter area you can eat at, which provides an up-close look as your food is being meticulously prepared. The décor is modern meets industrial, with light fixtures dangling from ceiling pipes, and gorgeous street art, featuring the legendary octopus-like Kraken sea monster, dominating the walls. Looking at the menu, we were pleasantly surprised to note …