Archive for the ‘Don’t Miss’ Category

NYC’s iconic H&H Bagels is bringing the heat to South Florida with its new limited-time Honey Harissa “Hot Pickle” Cream Cheese collaboration with viral favorite Good Girl Snacks. Available throughout May, the sweet-and-spicy spread combines H&H’s signature cream cheese with Good Girl Snacks’ cult-famous Honey Harissa Pickles for the perfect balance of tang, heat, and sweetness.

We stopped by the Pinecrest location to try it for ourselves and loved it paired with an everything bagel — the savory seasoning complemented the bold honey harissa flavor perfectly. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your morning bagel order or add something different to your lunch break, this delicious treat is worth trying before it’s gone.

Founded on Manhattan’s Upper West Side in 1972, H&H Bagels has become a true New York staple, known for its classic kettle-boiled bagels and pop culture appearances in Sex and the City and Seinfeld. Meanwhile, Good Girl Snacks continues to dominate social media with its viral Hot Girl Pickles, loved for their bold flavors and better-for-you ingredients.

The Honey Harissa “Hot Pickle” Cream Cheese is available now at all H&H Bagels locations, online, and through the H&H Bagels app, Uber Eats, and DoorDash.

A Taste of Chinatown: Chinese Tuxedo Brings Contemporary Elegance to a’Riva

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On May - 14 - 2026

Sunset Harbour’s culinary landscape just leveled up. Following a string of heavy-hitting collaborations, a’Riva at Harbour Club is currently playing host to Manhattan’s celebrated Chinese Tuxedo. From May 12th – 16th, this limited-time pop-up is transforming the intimate Miami space into a contemporary Chinese banquet hall, blending New York City’s edgy sophistication with the artful ambiance of the Harbour Club.

Beyond the stunning views and the sleek, warm-lit atmosphere, the true star is a menu that reinterprets traditional flavors with bold, modern flair.

The collaboration features a curated selection of Chinese Tuxedo’s most iconic hits, complemented by a bespoke cocktail program:

• Signature Cocktails: The bar program is as inventive as the kitchen, featuring the Paradise Park (Vodka, Lychee, Yuzu), the Mott Collins (Gin, Pear, Chinese Five Spice), and the spicy, savory Bloody Angle (Tequila, Blood Orange, Sichuan, Chili).

• Dim Sum: Kick things off with the refreshing Spicy Cucumbers and Marinated Wood Ear Mushrooms in a red vinegar dressing. Other highlights include Hamachi Crudo, Shrimp Toast with XO Sauce, and the standout Crispy Eggplant.

• Noodles: Options range from Kombu Noodles with Jonah Crab to the show-stopping Whole Live Lobster Noodles.

• Seafood & Meats: Steamed Snapper, Crispy Skin Half Chicken, and the legendary Half Roast Duck.

• Vegetables: Steamed Bok Choy and Xinjiang Spiced Green Beans.

• Dessert: Mandarin Custard Crème Brûlée and Sesame Balls.

Outstanding Dishes & Culinary Highlights

While every plate delivered, several dishes redefined what we expect from Chinese cuisine in Miami:

• The “Candy” Eggplant: The Crispy Eggplant with Sichuan Peppercorn and Sesame is a revelation. It’s essentially “veggie candy”—perfectly glazed, crunchy on the outside, and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside.

• The Signature Roast Duck: Prepared in the signature Chinese Tuxedo fashion, the Half Roast Duck arrives with perfectly rendered skin and succulent, five-spice infused meat that pays homage to traditional banquet dining.

• Whole Live Lobster Noodles: Expertly prepared and visually stunning, the lobster is succulent and tossed in a rich, golden garlic butter that clings to every strand of noodle.

• Reimagined Greens: Even the sides shine. The Bok Choy features a unique burnt garlic oil, while the Green Beans are tossed in a fragrant Xinjiang spice blend that provides a smoky, addictive heat.

• The Finale: The Crème Brûlée Mandarin Custard Tart is arguably the best version of the dessert in the city—silky, citrusy, and finished with a flawless glass-like sugar crust.

What truly levels up this pop-up is the outstanding service. The staff at a’Riva navigates the complexity of the Chinese Tuxedo menu with grace, offering insightful recommendations. It is a rare “cross-cultural exchange” where the high-energy service of New York meets the relaxed luxury of Miami.

Plan Your Visit:

• Location: a’Riva at Harbour Club, 1916 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

• Dates: Now through Saturday, May 16th.

• Time: Dinner service begins nightly at 6:00 PM.

• Reservations: Highly recommended and can be made via Resy or by contacting the restaurant directly at 305-910-0415.

Whether you’re a fan of the NYC original or a local looking for the most compelling meal in town this week, this collaboration is a must-visit. Catch it before it’s gone!

Masked Reality: A Black & White Affair at Night at the Museum 2026

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On April - 16 - 2026

If Miami had a “main character energy” night for the art world, this would be it—just reimagined in black and white.

On Thursday, April 23, 2026, The Bass transforms into something far beyond a museum. This year’s Night at the Museum arrives under the theme Masked Reality, an immersive, monochromatic experience where illusion, identity, and artistry blur into one unforgettable night. From 8 to 11 PM, the space becomes an after-hours cultural playground, blending contemporary art with nightlife in a way only Miami can deliver.

Traditionally reserved for members at the Affiliate level and above, this signature event has built a reputation as one of the most exclusive art parties in the city. A limited number of single tickets open the door just enough for those ready to step into the scene—where the guest list reads like a who’s who of Miami creatives, collectors, and cultural insiders.

“Get ready for a night where art comes alive” takes on new meaning this year. Guests are not just attendees—they are part of the visual narrative. The black-and-white dress code sets the stage for bold, creative interpretation: sculptural silhouettes, tailored tuxedos, sheer layers, dramatic masks, and avant-garde styling that blurs the line between fashion and installation.

The effect is intentional. In a stripped-down palette, every detail becomes sharper, every movement more striking. The crowd itself becomes a living extension of the exhibitions—an evolving composition of contrast, mystery, and self-expression.

The evening unfolds as a curated collision of art and atmosphere. Guests move through exhibitions with cocktails in hand, music carrying through the galleries, and a sense of discovery at every turn. It’s less quiet contemplation and more immersive experience—where contemporary works are encountered in a completely different light, surrounded by energy and conversation.

The Bass has long been a cornerstone of Miami Beach’s contemporary art scene, known for pushing boundaries and creating experiences that feel both elevated and accessible. Night at the Museum embodies that vision—transforming the traditional museum visit into something social, dynamic, and distinctly Miami.

In a city defined by late nights and spectacle, Masked Reality sits perfectly at the intersection of culture and nightlife. The museum becomes the setting, the guests become the moment, and the night unfolds somewhere between reality and illusion.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026

Time: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Location: The Bass

Tickets: https://thebass.org/night-museum-2026/

Slow Food Miami’s Annual Tasting Party Returns

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 31 - 2026

The 15th annual Slow Food Miami’s Annual “Snail of Approval” Tasting Party will return on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at an exciting new venue, the one-and-only Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

Tickets are available to purchase via Eventbrite HERE. General admission tickets are $125 per person in advance; $145 per person at the door. VIP Garden Sponsor is $750 and includes (2) two tickets and access to the VIP Lounge + sponsorship of one school garden bed.

Often referred to as, “Miami’s Freshest Night Out,” the annual event is Slow Food Miami’s (SFM) night to honor Miami chefs, restaurants, artisans and purveyors who make sustainability and local sourcing of paramount importance. The celebration goes hand in hand with SFM’s mission to support local farmers/growers and help educate future generations about the importance of smart, responsible sourcing and the authentic origins of the food we eat. Event proceeds benefit SFM’s Edible School & Community Garden Program. This year’s celebrity emcee will be Miami’s own Olee Fowler, 1/3 of the trio behind the Magic City’s favorite new food blog The Leftovers.  

Participants confirmed thus far include: Christoper Robertson/Carillon Miami Wellness Resort; Logan McNeil/Tambourine Room by Tristan Brandt at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort; Michael Beltran/Ariete; Allen Susser/Slow Fish & Chef Allen’s consulting; Chef Pedro Mederos/Kojin; Domaselo; Everglades Oysters; Garcia Nevett Chocolatier de Miami; Laurie’s Pantry; Pamela Wasabi Bakery; Radiate Kombucha and Titanic Brewery. More to come.

“We are excited to bring this year’s celebration to the gorgeous and health-minded Carillon Miami Wellness Resort,” says SFM Chair Michele Benesch. “We look forward to this night all year; our annual opportunity to pay tribute to and celebrate the talents, visionaries and dedicated doers who have committed themselves and their businesses to help further Slow Food’s Mission. The funds we raise directly benefit our edible garden school program and every year it becomes more important to get to kids and show them what real food is and where it comes from.”

Slow Food Miami’s 15th annual “Snail of Approval” Tasting Party is sponsored by Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Royal Caribbean, SYLTBAR, Brustman Carrino Public Relations, Jet Set Sound, and Menu Men, Inc.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15th-annual-snail-of-approval-tasting-party-tickets-1983910227897?aff=oddtdtcreator

Easter Dining in South Florida: Where to Celebrate in Miami & Key West

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On March - 27 - 2026

With Easter weekend around the corner, South Florida is offering a vibrant lineup of festive brunches, waterfront feasts and spring-inspired dining experiences. From elevated celebrations in Miami to laid-back island gatherings in Key West, here are standout spots to celebrate the holiday in style:

Miami 

Il Mulino New York – Miami at the Acqualina Resort & Residences

Il Mulino New York – Miami, the newly renovated and refreshed restaurant located inside the Acqualina Resor & Residences offers two distinct Easter Sunday prix fixe dining experiences:

The Sunday Prix Fixe Lunch Menu is priced at $49 per person features a three-course structure. Guests begin by choosing one appetizer, with options including Burrata Caprese, Insalata di Rucola, Insalata di Polipo, Vongole in white wine sauce, Insalata di Pomodori, or a Wedge Salad. For the second course, diners select one entrée from dishes such as Gamberi with cannellini beans, Paillard di Pollo, Piccata di Vitello al Limone, Linguine Nere with rock shrimp, Salmone, Dentice alla Livornese, or Branzino. The meal concludes with a choice of dessert, either Torta della Nonna or gelato.

In the evening, the Sunday Supper Menu is offered at $56 per person presents a four-course experience, again with one selection per course. Guests choose a primi such as Caprese, Calamari Fritti, Vongole Oreganata, Rucola, Gnocchi Sorrento, Cozze, Rigatoni Bolognese, or Melanzana con Ricotta, followed by a soup or salad course with a choice of Zuppa di Lenticchie or a traditional Caesar salad. For the main course, diners select one entrée from a wide range of options including Ravioli Porcini, Pappardelle con Salsiccia, Pollo Fra Diavolo, Pollo alla Scarpariello, Vitello alla Milanese, Pollo alla Parmigiana, Salmone alla Griglia, Piccata di Vitello al Limone, or Scaloppine al Marsala, with a Peppercorn Filet Mignon available for an additional charge. The experience concludes with dolci assortiti, featuring cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake, and tiramisù.

Smith & Wollensky (South Point Park) 

Guests visiting Smith & Wollensky Miami on Sunday can expect one of the most iconic oceanfront dining experiences in the city, set right on the edge of South Pointe Park with unbeatable, up-close views of the water and passing cruise ships. The menu showcases signature offerings designed for sharing, including USDA Prime dry-aged steaks like the bone-in ribeye and porterhouse for two, alongside indulgent seafood towers piled with oysters, shrimp cocktail, lobster, and crab. Additional standout dishes include the signature Wollensky Salad, thick-cut bacon, jumbo lump crab cakes, and classic sides such as truffle mac & cheese and creamed spinach, making it an ideal setting for a lively, celebratory meal by the water. Learn more at the Smith & Wollensky Miami

Kings Doral

On April 4 at 8:00 p.m., adults can relive the chaos of festive egg hunts in a vibey atmosphere at Kings – no kids allowed and no reservation needed. While enjoying handcrafted food and tongue-and-cheek cocktails, guests can expect to break out their detective skills to find hidden eggs packed with prizes, food deals and surprises throughout the property in an Easter Egg Hunt After Dark. The guest who finds the Golden Egg will be awarded a complimentary party at Kings, including space for 12 friends to bowl, eat and play on the house. 

Key West

Pier House Resort & Spa 

Set just steps away from the water, One Duval offers a quintessential oceanfront setting for Easter brunch. On Sunday April 5  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated brunch buffet featuring seasonal dishes, elevated brunch classics, and handcrafted cocktails complete with a complimentary mimosa to celebrate the occasion. Menu highlights include Fluffy Pancakes with assorted toppings and Classic Eggs Benedict, alongside heartier offerings like the Herb-Crusted Prime Rib. A sweet finish comes by way of house-made Cinnamon Rolls and the iconic Key Lime Pie. The experience is priced at $85 per person (plus tax and gratuity) and $30 for children under 12. Book HERE.

La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection

Celebrate Easter Sunday on April 5 in the heart of Old Town at Perla, where a festive brunch buffet brings together vibrant, seasonal flavors in a lively, family-friendly setting. Available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the experience features an abundant spread of brunch favorites alongside elevated dishes like Lobster Benedict and Herb-Crusted Lamb. Sweet selections such as Key Lime Pie and Classic French Crème Brûlée round out the menu, with optional bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys available. Families are especially welcome, with the “Little Bunnies” children’s buffet and Easter egg hunt adding to the celebration. The brunch is priced at $65 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under. Book HERE.

The Rotunda Reopens with a Global Message: Welcome Wall at The Bass

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On March - 27 - 2026

A historic Miami Beach space is stepping back into the spotlight. The Bass Museum of Art celebrates the reopening of The Rotunda on March 28, 2026, debuting it with a powerful and inclusive installation: Welcome Wall (2015–2026) by Pascale Marthine Tayou.

Originally built in 1962 as part of the Miami Beach Public Library, The Rotunda once served as a hub for community gatherings, lectures, and cultural exchange. Now reimagined as a dynamic entry point to the museum and Collins Park, the space returns to its roots—welcoming the public once again for connection, creativity, and shared experiences.

Marking this reopening, Welcome Wall transforms The Rotunda into an immersive celebration of global identity. The installation features over 200 LED signs spelling “welcome” in languages from around the world, many of them rare or underrepresented. As the glowing words wrap around the circular space, visitors are surrounded by a powerful reminder of Miami’s diversity—and the universal desire to belong.

The reopening coincides with The Bass’s Art Outside Annual Picnic, a free, family-friendly community event taking place on opening day. Guests can expect an afternoon of outdoor art experiences, live programming, and interactive activities designed for all ages—making it the perfect way to explore the newly reopened Rotunda while enjoying Miami Beach’s vibrant cultural scene.

Expanded through a global community call, the work reflects voices both local and international, reinforcing The Rotunda’s renewed role as a place of gathering and discovery.

Free and open to the public, both the installation and picnic invite everyone to take part—because at The Bass, art (and community) is for all. For general museum information, visit
thebass.org. Follow on social media @thebassmoa.