Archive for July, 2025

Tap Brings a Taste of Brazil to Brickell

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On July - 29 - 2025

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.

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.

Jay Luigi

3201 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

(727) 228-9931

jayluigi.com

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)

Phone: (727) 555‑1234

Website: www.perrys-porch.com

Instagram: @perrys_porch

Email: info@perrys-porch.com

PS Breaks Ground on First Private Terminal at MIA

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 17 - 2025

On Thursday, July 10, the future of luxury air travel in Miami took off in style as PS (formerly known as The Private Suite) broke ground on its highly anticipated new terminal at Miami International Airport (MIA). In true Miami fashion, the celebration was a chic, open house-style event with remarks from Amina Porter, CEO of PS; Ralph Cutié, Director & CEO of MIA; and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, among other civic leaders and partners.

PS MIA, slated to open in Spring 2026, marks a milestone as the first private terminal for commercial passengers at MIA, offering travelers an elevated, crowd-free alternative to the traditional airport experience—complete with TSA and customs clearance onsite. The new terminal is not just an expansion of PS’ signature luxury—it’s a restoration project, transforming the former Pan American Airways headquarters into a serene and opulent pre- and post-flight haven.

The forthcoming PS terminal is housed in a Miami-Dade County Historical Site, designated in 2014. The building—an icon of mid-century brutalist architecture—was once the beating heart of Pan Am’s global empire. Now, under the discerning eye of renowned interior designer Cliff Fong and the historic restoration team at RJ Heisenbottle Architects, the space is undergoing a thoughtful transformation.

Guests at the groundbreaking were treated to a first-look walkthrough of the design plans, which aim to honor the structure’s gold-paneling, reflecting pools, and original Pan Am logos. The refreshed space will artfully blend natural textures with rich tropical hues, capturing the essence of Miami’s vibrant energy with the refinement of PS’ signature ambiance.

Once open, PS MIA will provide guests with a truly private and peaceful airport experience—no lines, no crowds, no stress. Designed for those who value privacy and comfort as much as convenience, the terminal will feature:

  • Five Private Suites with dedicated security, customs, and TSA clearance
  • Two Salons with full-service dining and curated lounge experiences
  • An Outdoor Courtyard designed for a moment of calm under the Miami sun
  • A Day Spa offering massages and beauty treatments
  • Personalized service from PS Hosts who handle everything from check-in to tarmac transportation

Guests will arrive at PS via a private entrance and are seamlessly whisked from lounge to aircraft via BMW 7 Series sedans, bypassing the main terminal entirely.

The groundbreaking in Miami is part of PS’ growing footprint, which began at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and recently expanded to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)—with Paris marking its first international location at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).

At PS LAX, Hollywood A-listers, business moguls, and luxury travelers regularly opt for the white-glove service that includes private suites with ensuite bathrooms, curated meals by renowned chefs, and full bar service—all steps away from their flight.

In Atlanta, the design reflects southern hospitality infused with PS’ elevated sensibility—think: handwoven textiles, custom lighting, and gourmet comfort food.

And in Paris, PS has partnered with Air France La Première to deliver a seamless, ultra-private terminal experience on European soil, offering their signature blend of discretion, design, and hospitality with a Parisian flair. Guests can expect full TSA and customs coordination, private suite service, and direct tarmac transport to their aircraft—just with a French twist.

Each location is uniquely tailored to its city’s character, yet maintains PS’ gold standard of travel luxury. With Miami joining the club in 2026, PS is solidifying itself as the definitive name in pre-flight indulgence for the modern jetsetter.

“Miami is a city that knows how to do things with style—and we are proud to bring a travel experience that matches that energy,” said PS CEO Amina Porter. “Restoring the iconic Pan Am building to usher in a new era of luxury and ease is a full-circle moment, and we can’t wait to welcome travelers to PS MIA.” “MIA is one of the most vibrant and dynamic airports in the world, and the addition of PS signals our commitment to meeting the needs of every type of traveler,” added Ralph Cutié, CEO of Miami International Airport.

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava echoed the sentiment, calling PS MIA “an exciting moment for Miami-Dade County’s continued leadership in travel, design, and hospitality.”

As travelers increasingly seek more personalized, elevated travel experiences, PS’ expansion comes at a perfect time—and in perfect Miami style. When it opens its doors in 2026, PS MIA will stand not just as a private terminal, but a love letter to the golden age of air travel—with all the comforts of modern luxury.

For more information or to become a member of PS, visit www.reservePS.com.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with sparkle, heart, and purpose: A Charming Evening with Growing the Pizarro’s, hosted at Kendra Scott Dadeland Mall. This special Kendra Gives Back event is all about community, creativity, and compassion—blending fashion with philanthropy in the most beautiful way.

🗓 Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Kendra Scott – Dadeland Mall
7601 N Kendall Dr, Miami, FL 33175

Customize, Connect, and Give Back

The evening begins at 5 PM sharp with an exclusive charm customization experience led by the talented Natalie Pizarro, founder of Growing the Pizarro’s, as she honors the 10-year anniversary of her daughter Sabrina’s heavenly birthday.

Natalie will guide guests through the process of creating a one-of-a-kind piece—something deeply personal and truly stylish. Her limited-edition charm will be available only at this in-store event, making your creation a rare treasure.

While you design, sip, and shop, you’ll also be giving back. Twenty percent of all sales during the event will benefit Nico’s Promise, a heartfelt organization committed to supporting families through grief and loss. It’s a night where every purchase holds purpose.

RSVP & Win

Be sure to RSVP! Everyone who RSVPs will be entered into a raffle for a special prize—but you must be present to win; https://growingthepizarros.splashthat.com/#rsvp.

Can’t Join Us in Person?

No worries! You can still support Nico’s Promise by shopping online at kendrascott.com. Use the code GIVEBACK-GTPXNP at checkout and make sure to click “Apply.” That way, 20% of your purchase will go directly to the cause.


Whether you’re there to design something unique, discover new favorites, or simply share in a night of love and giving, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Feel-Good Fashion: Woxer’s Inclusive Underwear and Swimwear for Every Body

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 11 - 2025

Feel comfortable in your skin while feeling comfortable in your underwear with Woxer. Explore the varied, colorful styles and inclusive sizing for every body. Super soft, high-quality, and made to move with you, the comfortable soft waistband never pinches into the stomach. These underwear are breathable, moisture-wicking, and chafe-free, while featuring sustainable luxury fabric (Modal) made from beechwood trees. Pair them with Woxer bralettes (Boss, Icon) for a style all your own. 


Woxer recently launched its first-ever swim collection. It features sustainable swimwear designed for ultimate comfort and style, perfect for fun and adventure by the water. The swimsuits are made from recycled plastic bottles and Xtra Life Lycra®, ensuring superior chlorine and saltwater resistance, shape retention, and vibrant colors.  Meticulous design and wear-testing trials guarantee that the swimsuits are as comfortable as they are stylish, with no bulky or uncomfortable seams and stitches.

https://woxer.com/

Available on Amazon & ShareASale/Skimlinks