Kendall is getting a sizzling new addition just in time for the holidays: Lala’s Burgers, the cult-favorite concept born from Miami’s Apocalypse BBQ, is opening its first full-fledged restaurant on December 12 at 13750 SW 88th Street.
What began as a Tuesday pop-up has expanded into a full-service, 70-seat neighborhood gem. Now, guests can enjoy all the classics—The Lala, The Bacon, and those addictive double-fried seasoned fries—alongside a delicious menu featuring chicken sandwiches, hot dogs on house-baked buns, onion rings, brownie à la mode, that will have you singing “lalalala…you make me feel good” all the way home.
The new location debuts a curated craft beer list spotlighting Miami favorites like Tripping Animals’ Everhaze IPA, La Playita, La Rubia, and rarer finds from Lost City and Rocketeer(woot woot), plus wine and soft drinks.
Lala’s includes a dine-in experience with full service, first-come-first-served seating, and bagged takeout. Coming soon: a vinyl listening section—an homage to Apocalypse BBQ—plus board and table games to make the space a true neighborhood hangout.
The opening marks a major milestone for Jeff and Laura “Lala” Bud, whose backyard-born Apocalypse BBQ has grown into a Kendall staple with multiple concepts under the Day One Hospitality umbrella. After outgrowing its early pop-up days and wrapping up its run at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co., Lala’s Burgers officially calls Kendall home.
“This isn’t just another viral burger joint,” says Lala. “It’s our way of serving the Kendall community with bold flavors and a welcoming environment. What started as a backyard project has become something extraordinary.”
Lala’s Burgers hours (starting Dec. 12, 2025):
Tue–Thu: 11 am–9 pm
Fri–Sat: 11 am–11 pm
Sun: 11 am–9 pm
Follow @lalasburgers on Instagram for more information.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 30 - 2025
This October, ¡Salud! will spotlight Miami’s vibrant cocktail scene with a month-long lineup of drink specials and events in the city’s most lively neighborhoods. The series will kick off with three happy hours for ¡Salud! members, featuring complimentary cocktails while supplies last: Wednesday, October 1st at Dead Flamingo, Thursday, October 2nd at ViceVersa from 5 to 7 PM, and Friday, October 3rd at Brother’s Keeper from 5 to 7 PM.
The series is designed to bring locals together to revisit local bars for a drink, offering affordable, high-quality cocktails, neighborhood-centered experiences, and a citywide sense of community. To attend, guests must register on the ¡Salud! website, which provides access to the bar directory, a guide to the featured cocktails throughout the month, and the full calendar of programming and events for the ¡Salud! community.
In its first year, ¡Salud! will team up with Miami’s top bars and emerging hotspots to offer month-long drink deals, memorable nights highlighting expertly made cocktails, and neighborhood adventures. Focusing on affordability and accessibility, ¡Salud! aims to invite everyone back to the bar, showcasing those who shake it, move it, and celebrate it.
The team behind ¡Salud! is deeply connected to Miami’s hospitality landscape: Gabriel Urrutia is a nationally recognized spirits educator and award-winning author known for promoting Miami’s bar scene; Joshua Wagner is a seasoned hospitality executive who has launched and advised some of South Florida’s most talked-about venues; and POPLIFE, a brand experience agency headquartered in Miami, has curated some of the city’s most celebrated cultural and nightlife experiences.
POPLIFE has been a part of great moments across Miami for many years. When Josh and Gabe approached us with the idea behind ¡Salud!, it felt like a natural opportunity to get involved,” says LP Steele, POPLIFE CEO. “It’s a chance for us to co-create a community-focused initiative with the team and a number of great brand sponsors, inviting Miamians to come together and socialize at the best bars in town. Our mantra is, ‘Life’s Better with Friends,’ and this is our invitation to join us, celebrate the Miami cocktail scene, and make new friends.”
Supported by top spirits brands like 400 Conejos Mezcal, Aperol, Cointreau, Del Maguey Mezcal, Diplomatico Rum, Espolon Tequila, Fords Gin, Grey Goose Vodka, Mount Gay Rum, Peroni, Patron Tequila, Santa Teresa Rum, and Westland Whiskey, ¡Salud! will showcase signature cocktails and exclusive creations designed specifically for the series, offering guests the chance to experience Miami’s best bartending talent. Additional sponsors include Google, Virgin Voyages, Toast, Filthy Foods, Sweat 440, and Anatomy gym.
¡Salud! participants include the following:
Aguasal by José Andrés
American Social
ARCANO – Sabores de Esencia Hispana
Bar Centro by José Andrés
Basement Bowl & Skate
Bay Club
Bayshore Club
Beauty & the Butcher
Blackbird Ordinary
Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
Broken Shaker
Brother’s Keeper Bar
Catch Miami
Contessa Ristorante
Dante’s HiFi
DiLido Beach Bar
Dirty French Steakhouse
Drift
Fox’s Lounge
Ghee Wynwood
Glass & Vine
Gramps Getaway
Joia Beach
Kaori
Kill Your Idol
Lapidus
La Otra Wynwood
Las Rosas
Le Jardinier
Lost Boy Dry Goods
Lost Weekend
Lucali
Magie Wine Bar
Mama Tried
Maple & Ash
Matador Bar
Medium Cool Cocktail Lounge
Mi Chini
Paya
Ray’s Hometown Bar
River House Wine & Bar
Stiltsville Fish Bar
Stubborn Seed
Sunny’s Steakhouse
Sweet Liberty
Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery
Tacombi
The Corner
The Scapegoat
The Shelbourne
The Sylvester
The Tips Golf
Tipsy Flamingo
Tomorrowland
Tropezon
Tropicalia
ViceVersa
Zaytinya
For more information on ¡Salud! and details about each partner, please visit www.salud-miami.com.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 23 - 2025
Photo Credit: Richard Sandoval Hospitality
Chef Richard Sandoval is once again bringing his renowned Día de los Muertos celebration to Toro Toro, the Pan-Latin steakhouse at the InterContinental Miami. From October 1 through November 3, guests can feast on a month-long sensory journey that honors Sandoval’s Mexican heritage and blurs the line between the living and the spiritual.
This year’s theme is all about the moon—a powerful symbol of cycles, memory, and connection in Latin culture. The restaurant will be serving an exclusive, a la carte menu of culturally significant dishes and cocktails inspired by the moon’s phases.
Dishes include the Pozole De Langosta ($54), featuring lobster, hominy corn, and guajillo chili, and the Ofrenda De Cempasúchil ($57), with tender lamb, purple potato mash, and a smoky chipotle hibiscus sauce. For a sweet finale, indulge in the Calabaza En Tacha ($24), a slow-cooked candied squash with cinnamon ice cream.
To complement the meal, sip on specialty cocktails like the Mythic Essence ($20), a blend of Sotol, tangerine, and honey, or the Moon’s Embrace ($22), with Mexican whiskey, bourbon, and notes of coffee and rose.
Reservations are highly encouraged through OpenTable and at torotoromiami.com.
Toro Toro Miami is located at the InterContinental Miami, 100 Chopin Plaza.
There’s a new must-visit spot in Brickell—and it’s bringing serious flavor with a side of soul. Welcome to TAP Brickell, the vibrant new café that stands for Tapioca Sandwiches, Açaí Bowls, and Pão de Queijo—and serves up a fresh take on Brazilian comfort food with a wellness-forward twist.
Founded on a deep love for Brazil’s culinary roots, TAP is all about real ingredients, bold flavors, and feel-good vibes. The menu is stacked with tasty choices: egg wraps, paninis, smoothies, fresh juices, and rich Brazilian coffee—all made with care and crafted to energize.
But let’s talk signatures. TAP’s Tapioca Sandwiches—made with cassava flour imported straight from Brazil—are naturally gluten-free and totally crave-worthy. They put a Brazilian spin on American favorites, like the BaconEggNCheese or Chicken Club, with a texture that’s both crisp and chewy.
Then there’s the Pão de Queijo, Brazil’s beloved cheese bread, baked in-house with a special blend of mozzarella, Swiss, and parmesan. Available in three flavors—traditional, spicy, and pesto—these warm, cheesy bites are basically irresistible.
The Açaí Bowls are another star. Sourced sustainably from the Amazon rainforest (yes, really), the açaí is rich, smooth, and loaded with antioxidants. Toppings include homemade vegan granola, coconut flakes, cocoa nibs, chia seeds, passion fruit, mango, strawberries, bananas, and blueberries. It’s the kind of bowl you eat with your camera first.
TAP is led by brothers Pedro and Cleo Uchôa, who bring their Rio de Janeiro roots—and a shared passion for Brazilian food—to every detail.
Their commitment to quality goes beyond food. TAP’s motto, “Eat Well, Do Good, Live Better,” is reflected in its eco-conscious mission. The restaurant uses biodegradable PLA cups, prioritizes sustainable sourcing, and collaborates with local partners to give back to both the Miami and Brazilian communities.
The space is as much a cultural experience as it is a café. From hand-painted palm fronds and oversized umbrellas outside, to vibrant murals inside by Brazilian graffiti artist Acme (@universoacme), every detail invites guests into Brazil’s colorful world. The walls are also adorned with stunning photographs by visual artist Nino Franco (@ninofrancoo), showcasing everything from sun-drenched beaches to lush jungles. A striking green wall over rustic brick, Brazilian music, and complimentary Wi-Fi complete the atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for a power breakfast, post-workout fuel, or your new favorite neighborhood spot, TAP delivers with warmth, flavor, and flair.
TAP Brickell is located at 1250 S Miami Avenue, #105, open daily from 8am to 8pm. To explore the full menu and learn more, visit tapnyc.com or follow @eat_tap on Instagram.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 27 - 2025
There’s a certain thrill in stumbling upon a restaurant that not only lives up to its hype—but manages to redefine what you thought was possible at its price point. Tucked into an unsuspecting area of St. Pete’s 4th Street corridor, Jay Luigi isn’t just another Italian-inspired eatery—it’s a revelation. With top-tier ingredients, bold, inventive flavors, and price tags that make you do a double-take, Jay Luigi is quietly staging a culinary coup against South Florida’s priciest trattorias.
The atmosphere is unfussy but thoughtfully designed—a breezy, modern space with a colorful Cuban tile wall, decorative metal ceiling, blonde wood, and a communal energy that feels like a dinner party where everyone’s invited. Between the no-fuss vibe, design-forward space, and friendly service, Jay Luigi embodies equal parts trattoria-chic and Florida cool. But really, it’s the food that’s the star. It’s what happens when premium ingredients, thoughtful execution, and bold flavors converge. When the food arrives, it hits you: this place is different.
Let’s start with the bread. The Daily Bread is a must: pillowy-soft with the kind of golden edge that crackles when torn, served alongside a trio of dips that deserve their own applause. The pomodoro fondue is velvety and savory; the whipped butter with olive oil feels like luxury on a spoon; and the honey ricotta straddles the line between appetizer and dessert. You’ll want to order extra bread. (Go for it.) The whipped ricotta crostini—airy, creamy, and spiked with a drizzle of chili oil and honey—lands with a whisper and a punch. Simple, gorgeous, unforgettable.
Now, meet the MVPs.
Start with the meatballs. Nestled in that luscious house pomodoro and showered with Grana Padano, they are, no joke, the best we’ve had this side of Florence. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and with a slow-cooked depth—these meatballs will haunt your cravings in the best way.
Next up: Jay’s Caesar salad is a game changer. Crisp romaine, radicchio, grated Grana Padano, house croutons, Marcona almonds, and dried cherries. The crunch, the sweet bite—it’s Caesar, elevated and totally addictive.
Let’s talk mains. The crispy chicken Milanese is the showstopper: a panko-crusted cutlet, pounded thin and fried golden, perched atop a tangle of lemony arugula. It’s light, rich, crunchy, and satisfying all at once—the kind of dish that makes you fall in love with chicken again. Add it to any salad or enjoy it on its own.
The pasta lineup delivers in spades. The Drunken Mushroom is a must, and the Vodka Rigatoni is creamy with a whisper of heat. The Limoncello Pasta is citrusy, unexpected, and brilliant. And the Alfredo? Decadent, with a silky texture that clings lovingly to every noodle. All pastas are made with water, flour, and soul.
If it’s pizza you crave, you’re in the right place. The dough is house-made, and you choose your style: Neapolitan or Roman. The Jess Knows Best is a flavor bomb of goat cheese, truffle honey, mushrooms, caramelized onion, and thyme. The Queen Stella—a purist’s Margherita with fresh basil and San Marzano pomodoro—reminds you how divine simplicity can be.
One of the biggest surprises on the menu? The Cauli Rice Bowls. These veggie-forward powerhouses are layered with roasted proteins, zippy house sauces, and herb-packed flavor profiles so deeply satisfying, you genuinely forget there’s no pasta involved. The standout is The Fungi: a lush mix of roasted mushrooms, microgreens, and cauliflower rice, drizzled with truffle for that earthy, luxurious finish. It’s comfort food meets spa food—and somehow, it works like magic.
Lunch specials here are an absolute steal: a half sandwich with any house-made soup or salad—for under $12. The sandwiches—especially the Milanese—are worth a midday detour. A panko chicken cutlet layered with arugula, EVOO, and tomato, tucked into focaccia and served with your choice of soup, salad, or chips. The Chicken Parm, Meatball, and Italiano (mortadella, prosciuttini, provolone) are also fantastic.
Jay Luigi doesn’t try to be trendy or flashy. It doesn’t have to be. With a menu that fuses casual comfort and culinary finesse, it’s redefining what fast-fine Italian can be. Jay Luigi manages what so few restaurants can: serving food that feels expensive—with flavor profiles and ingredient quality rivaling the best Italian kitchens in South Florida—yet priced so reasonably you might glance at the check and wonder if they forgot something.
They didn’t. At Jay Luigi, everything is made with intention. It’s refined yet casual, indulgent yet affordable, familiar but never boring. The flavors stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best Italian restaurants in South Florida.
This isn’t just one of St. Pete’s best Italian spots—it’s one of the best in the state.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 18 - 2025
Perry’s Porch, the newest concept from Seed & Feed Hospitality Group (behind local favorites Trophy Fish, Mandarin Hide, and El Cap), has arrived to St. Pete’ Pier in full, fabulous force—serving up bold flavors, maximalist design, and a cocktail list that’s practically a local love letter.
But Perry’s Porch is more than just a place to eat. It’s a tribute to C. Perry Snell, the visionary who helped shape the city’s architectural soul. Blending timeless design with a modern twist, the space reflects the city’s evolution: elegant, welcoming, a little whimsical, and always effortlessly cool.
“As lifelong residents of St. Pete, we’re proud to contribute to the city’s continued growth and vibrancy with Perry’s Porch,” said Ryan Griffin, co-owner of Seed & Feed. “The St. Pete Pier is an iconic location, and we’re honored to be part of its story. We’re looking forward to creating a space that feels welcoming and reflective of our city’s charm.”
The Vibe: Stylish and Bustling, Yet Relaxed
Located beside the St. Petersburg Museum of History, Perry’s Porch offers indoor and outdoor seating with sweeping views of the bay and skyline. It’s a space made for lingering—whether you stop in for a quick bite or settle into a long, languid meal with friends and cocktails as the sun dips low. It’s stylish and bustling, yet relaxed, like a well-dressed friend who never makes you feel underdressed.
The interiors are just as inviting: wall-to-wall artwork, brass animal heads, and cheeky brass monkeys balancing fruit baskets across the bar. It’s polished but playful—elevated design with a sense of humor. And with live music drifting from the terrace throughout the day, there’s a rhythm here that draws you in—and makes you want to stay awhile.
The Menu: Coastal, Classic, and Comforting
Perry’s Porch is a day-to-night destination, beginning with locally roasted Kahwa coffee and fresh-baked pastries in the morning, and rolling into sandwiches, salads, and full-flavored dinner plates by evening. Don’t miss the one-of-a-kind gelato cart, parked near the entrance like a wink to childhood memories—with rotating flavors served to both diners and curious passersby.
While everything on the menu leans fresh and flavorful, there are two standouts: the chargrilled octopus—tender, smoky, and unmissable—and the burger, a perfectly seasoned, charred-to-perfection classic that feels indulgent without being over the top.
The Cocktails: Sip the Spirit of St. Pete
Created in collaboration with the team at Mandarin Hide, Perry’s Porch’s beverage program is both playful and polished. Each cocktail is named for a local landmark and thoughtfully built for flavor, flair, and fun. Whether you’re a neat spirits drinker or a fruit-forward fan, there’s something you’ll love.
🍸 Sunken Gardens: A botanical beauty made with gin, elderflower, cucumber, and lime, with just a touch of basil syrup and soda. Light, fragrant, and garden-fresh—served tall with an edible flower crown.
🍹 Pink Streets Margarita: A tangy, pink-hued twist on a classic, mixing blanco tequila, rosé aperitivo, grapefruit and lime, and a hint of hibiscus syrup. Tart, crisp, and as pretty as its namesake neighborhood.
🥃 Derby Lane: Dark, smooth, and smoky—this one’s all about smoked bourbon, amaro, and orange bitters, served over a single cube with a flamed orange peel. Sexy and contemplative, like a good mystery novel.
✨ Golden Dragon Martini: The showstopper. Vodka, lychee liqueur, pineapple, and a splash of bubbly, dusted with edible gold. Served in a coupe glass, it’s part drink, part crown jewel.
🍓 Strauberry Park: A playful twist on a whiskey sour, blending bourbon, strawberry syrup, lemon, and a frothy top of egg white. Finished with a pink peppercorn dusting for a sweet-meets-spice finish.
🌴 Jungle Prada: A tropical escape in a glass, made with dark rum, passionfruit, lime, and falernum, served over crushed ice and dressed like a tiki queen. You’ll want your camera for this one.
Each cocktail is crafted to be as transportive as the view—a flavor-driven celebration of the city’s soul, with just the right dose of mischief.
Service That Makes You Feel Like Family
Our server was so friendly, we nearly invited her to pull up a chair—and she would’ve fit right in. That’s the Seed & Feed Hospitality Group difference: authentic warmth, effortless charm, and a feeling that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Perry’s Porch
335 2nd Avenue NE
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(Next to the St. Petersburg Museum of History on St. Pete Pier)
