McDonald’s Launches Street Art Inspired French Fry Boxes for FIFA World Cup

In conjunction with the FIFA World Cup 2014, McDonald’s has changed the look of its iconic red French fry packaging globally with bold, new artwork to celebrate the upcoming soccer event. In addition, the new fry boxes will be the key to “unlocking” a new app “McDonald’s GOL!” that will reward French fry loving patrons with an engaging, virtual trick-shot challenge. The app will be compatible with most Android and Apple mobile devices and will be available for download in the Google Play store and Apple App Store™.

The redesign will treat customers and futbol fans with an exclusive collection of original street art that reflects the beauty and passion of the game of futbol. Twelve artists from around the world were chosen to create the special new designs, which will canvas McDonald’s Medium and Large fry boxes in the majority of company-owned and franchised restaurants worldwide. To view the different designs visit: www.gol.mcd.com.

SUSHISAMBA Mundial 2014

SUSHISAMBA is celebrating the World Cup by bringing the action from Brazil to its locations in Miami Beach and Coral Gables for ‘SUSHISAMBA MUNDIAL 2014!’ In celebration of the games, each restaurant has created the ultimate viewing experience for fans, featuring special events, festive food and drinks, and live coverage of all matches from June 12 – July 13, 2014! Drawing from the brand’s cultural and culinary heritage, Brazil will be the centrepiece of the month-long fête. Kickoff in true SAMBA style on Thursday, June 12 for the Brazil versus Croatia game with samba dancers, dj’s, a themed menu, and drink specials; www.sushisamba.com.

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana World Cup 2014

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana, Lincoln Road’s Northern Italian dining destination will celebrate the World Cup with big-screen televised matches, a special 2-course menu and an array of cocktail specials. Available during all games, the World Cup 2-course menu is priced at $22.  All games will be televised and specials run from Thursday, June 12^th through the final match on Saturday, July 12^th .Reservations are suggested. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily. Telephone: 305.531.4833. www.quattromiami.com. Read the rest of this entry »

By: Maryanne Salvat

Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation South Florida

On Tuesday, June 17, Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation South Florida – the region’s premier culinary benefit featuring top chefs from Miami-Dade and Broward counties – is returning to the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. More than 60 celebrated restaurants, fine wine and spirits and live entertainment come together in an unforgettable night for a fabulous cause – end childhood hunger in America. This year’s event will be bigger than ever, with pop-up stations located in the heart of the ballroom; a basketball hoop area where guests can challenge former WNBA starand Share Our Strength advocate Ruth Riley while raising money for the organization ($1 per hoop); and a bocce ball court. Miami Heat fans should not fret: there will be a beer garden with flat screen TVs set up for those in attendance that can’t miss Game 6, scheduled to air that evening.  100% of ticket sales from South Florida’s exclusive gastronomic extravaganza will benefit Share Our Strength, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization working to end childhood hunger. This year’s soirée will be emceed by local culinary personality Ralph Pagano; VIP tickets are $250 each. General admission is $125 per ticket; Tickets for the Black and Blanco After Party are priced at $75 per person. Taste of the Nation South Florida VIP ticket holders will also enjoy complimentary access to the after party.  Tickets may be purchased by calling 1-877-26-TASTE or by visiting CE.NoKidHungry.org/SouthFlorida.

The Hidden Kitchen 1^st Year Anniversary

Conceptualized and executed by Chef Michael B. Jacobs, The Hidden Kitchen Workshop is a unique underground dining series consisting of exclusive multi-course meals created and served by the Workshop’s honored guest chefs, along with Chef Jacobs. On Wednesday, June 25, at 7:00 p.m., Chef Jacobs will join forces with Chef de Cuisine Conor Hanlon of The Dutch for a one-night-only Southern Seafood Bash. The family-style, multi-course dinner will be priced at $120 per person including alcohol, tax and gratuity.  The evening will begin and end with hors d’oeuvres and dessert prepared by The Hidden Kitchen, along with courses prepared by Hanlon.  Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance at http://www.strategichospitality.net/hidden-kitchen-workshop-tickets/. The Hidden Kitchen Workshop takes place at The Hidden Kitchen café, located inside the Imperial House condominium. Guests enter through an unsuspecting back door staffed with a member of The Hidden Kitchen Workshop team who escorts diners to the dining room.

Seven Seas Aveda Spa & Salon Specials for Summer

The Seven Seas Aveda Spa & Salon is celebrating teachers with Summer Spa Specials priced at only $20.14 each. With the end of the school calendar looming, it is time for teachers to unwind and be appreciated for all their hard work. To thank educators for their contributions to the community, the Seven Seas Aveda Spa & Salon is hosting a summer-long, teacher appreciation promotion featuring luxury spa treatments at the discounted rate of $20.14 to celebrate the end of the 2013-2014 academic year; For appointments call 305.749.2100 or visit http://www.sevenseasspasalon.com for more information.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Campo Viejo at Cafeina Wynwood 

On Thursday, June 5, Cafeina Wynwood Lounge will host an intimate wine tasting of the Campo Viejo range from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., led by winemaker Roberto Vicente to launch their limited edition Reserva Art series bottle. Urban artists Remed and Okuda, designers of the bottle’s artwork, will be painting a mural that references the vibrancy and expressiveness of Campo Viejo wine, Rioja and Spanish culture. The mural will be unveiled following the wine tasting, and will be celebrated with an evening reception at Cafeina; RSVP@cafeinamiami.com.

The W SpeakerBox Concert Series Presents Gaby Duran  

Gaby Duran’s powerful voice will fill the Living Room at W South Beach on Thursday, June 5 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. As guests mix and mingle to Duran’s musical styling, the talented mixologists at Living Room Bar will be crafting the signature artisanal libation for the evening.  Snacks from Living Room’s exclusive menu crafted by Conor Hanlon, executive chef of Andrew Carmellini’s award-winning American restaurant at W South Beach, The Dutch, will also be available.  

Kalla Pop-Up Experience at Lilac and Lilies Boutique 

Kalla, a one-of-a-kind, luxuriously curated bouquet service, is celebrating its Fort Lauderdale launch with a custom, month-long pop- up experience at Lilac and Lilies Boutique starting Wednesday, June 4.  Just in time for Just in time for summer, Kalla’s innovative online boutique, which has set out to revolutionize the flower industry, will spring to life; curious shoppers can enjoy the multi-sensory Kalla experience.  A modern day flower cart will showcase Kalla’s floral couture collection of bold blooms bursting with fragrant, floral notes and styled in limited edition vases of hounds tooth, polka dot and chevron patterns; For more information visit: www.lilacandlilies.com. 

Catwalk for Charity 

Catwalk for Charity the annual fundraising event will take place on Sunday, June 8 at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Miami at 12:00 p.m.  The event will benefit Breakfast with Santa, supporting underprivileged children in Miami’s Little Haiti and neighboring cities, as well as various towns in Haiti. Joanna Krupa, supermodel will be the honorary chair and will be honored for her Nationwide Philanthropy along with other celebrities supporting the cause. Actor Brian J. White will serve as the Master of Ceremony for the third year in row. General admission tickets start at $150 and include the champagne brunch, fashion show, gift bag and silent auction access, featuring art, fashion and exclusive getaways.  A runway front row seat is available for $250 and is all-inclusive, with attendance at the Celebrity VIP Reception; For more information, visit www.catwalkforcharity.org and www.breakfastwithsanta.org. 

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Hosts 2014 Man/Woman of the Year Gala in Miami

On Friday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m., The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society hosts an evening of recognition and celebration at its annual Miami Man & Woman of the Year event, a 10-week national campaign, hosted by the Southern Florida chapter to raise funds to help find cures for blood cancers at the InterContinental Miami. The candidates who raise the most funds will be awarded the title Man and Woman of the Year. Candidates run in honor of the Boy and Girl of the Year, who are local blood cancer patient survivors and sources of inspiration for all. To donate or to purchase tickets visit one of our local candidates running to help this wonderful cause, Zachary Scott; his  is link:http://www.mwoy.org/pages/sfl/mia14/zscott.

3rd Annual Miami Underwater Festival at the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science

Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science (formerly Miami Science Museum) is inviting the public to “dive into” its 3rd Annual Miami Underwater Festival on Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8. The festival is being held in celebration of the global World Oceans Day, which honors the body of water which links us all, for what it provides humans and what it represents. This will be the first time guests will be able to access Knight Plaza, and have many opportunities to see/takes photos of the progress of the new museum. On this day, all events are free (parking fees may apply.) For more information, visit www.miamisci.org.

Amigos For Kids: Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night

Amigos For Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, will host the 2014 Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night on Saturday, June 14, at 8:00 p.m. at Jungle Island. Recognized as one of Miami’s most highly anticipated fundraisers, Amigos For Kids is fortunate to partner with its major corporate sponsors Voya Financial, Bacardí U.S.A. and Lincoln Motor Company for the 2014 Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night.Domino Night 2014 will feature the renowned celebrity orange carpet, celeb domino players, bar courtesy of presenting sponsor, Bacardí U.S.A., a silent auction, live entertainment, South Florida culinary fare and much more.   This year’s Celebrity Hosts include Alicia Machado, ex-Miss Universe and Deco Drive’s Louis Aguirre, a longtime supporter of Amigos For Kids, as well as local news anchors Alina Mayo Azze and Jackie Nespral. Tickets to the 2014 Voya Miami Celebrity Domino Night are $150/person in advance, $175/person at the door, and reserved domino tables of four are available for $1,000 each, with all proceeds benefitting Amigos For Kids; For more information regarding tickets and reservations, contact Amigos for Kids at 305. 279.1155, or visit at www.amigosforkids.org.

Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill benefits Angel’s Pediatric Heart House

Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill has announced it will be donating money to Angel’s Pediatric Heart House through two fundraisers this summer.  Angel’s Pediatric Heart House, a local nonprofit, provides South Florida children with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD) and Childhood Acquired Heart Disease with emergency financial assistance and raises CHD awareness in the community. As part of a 12-week fundraising series, two dates with festive themes were chosen for Angel’s Pediatric Heart House to receive a portion of the evenings’ total proceeds. The party theme on Thursday, June 5 will be “Fiesta,” and Thursday, July 10 will be “Under the Sea.” Both adults and children are encouraged to come dressed up in costumes inspired by the themes; for more information visit: mulligansbeachhouse.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat

maryannesalvat@aol.com 

Alex’s Lemonade Stand National Lemonade Days! 

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit dedicated to finding cures for all kids with cancer, will commemorate a milestone in their history, 10 years of fighting childhood cancer, with the return of National Lemonade Days, June 6 through 8.  This summer will mark 10 years since 8-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott (1996-2004) challenged the nation to help her raise $1 million for childhood cancer cures, one cup of lemonade at a time. The Foundation will once again invite volunteers across the country to host lemonade stands over the course of three days to continue Alex’s mission and bring renewed attention to the fight against childhood cancer. Following in the footsteps of Alex Scott, the Foundation encourages volunteers everywhere to participate in National Lemonade Days, including many stands held by children. During National Lemonade Days, ALSF offers support to all volunteers who sign up to host lemonade stands. In addition to having access to a member of the Foundation’s staff to help with any lemonade stand needs, Lemonade Days participants also receive a limited edition box while supplies last. The box consists of materials to assist in the fundraising process including: a 2ft X 3ft ALSF banner, thank you notes, stickers, balloons, posters, adult and child speaking points and a pre-paid return envelope for proceeds. This year the Foundation will also launch a social media campaign to encourage support across the country and world to utilize the hashtag #OneCupAtATime. All participants, whether they host a lemonade stand, visit a stand, or encourage others to do so, will utilize the hashtag to show their support for the Foundation on twitter, instagram, Facebook and more. For more information on National Lemonade Days, and to sign up to host a lemonade stand, visit: AlexsLemonade.org/LemonadeDays.  

Soccer Party Presented  by Coors Light 

To celebrate the biggest soccer tournament of the summer Coors Light is throwing a lively soccer party and inviting those over 21-years-old on Saturday, May 31 from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at the Courtyard, Shops at Midtwon.  Miami’s own artist, Lebo, will be in attendance to paint the bodies of Coors Light models in colors reminiscent of the USA, Colombia, Argentina, Germany, Spain, Mexico, Chile and Uruguay, and attendees are encouraged to take photos with the models.  Additionally, body painters will be on standby to paint party-goers their own game face. Attendees are invited to take part in games and activities, and there will be a chance for them to take home exciting giveaways throughout the night.  Super fans will also be able to sign up to win a chance at a trip to watch the final game from their favorite team’s home country.* Samba dancers are scheduled to perform at 9:00 p.m. ESPN Radio’s Dan Le Batard will host.

3^rd Annual Claws for Kids 

On Sunday, June 1, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will celebrate the 3^rd Annual “Claws for Kids” fundraising brunch at Joe’s Stone Crab Miami Beach. The event will kick off with at 11:30 a.m. with a reception, followed by brunch at 12:30 p.m. All event proceeds will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s state-of-the-art South Beach location. Entertainment will be provided by Frank Sinatra impersonator Jeff Grainer of Sinatra Sounds Entertainment. “Claws for Kids” committee members include Goldberg, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade former Board President Olga Guilarte, Gian Traina, Judy Kramer, Kaleena Mayan, Lou Esquerdo, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Executive Board Member Mark Walker, M.D., Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Board of Directors Member Rudy Lleonart, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Board of Directors Member Susan Geiger, Vanessa M. Bertran and Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Executive Board Member Yuni Navarro. For more information about sponsorships, underwriting or tickets, contact Kati Foley at (305) 446-9910 ext. 30, or via email at kfoley@bgcmia.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

maryannesalvat@aol.com 

Peter of London Celebrates 40 years of Beautiful Styling

May marks the 40^th anniversary of local South Florida beauty icon, Peter of London. The salon has been running successfully for decades. As part of this year’s anniversary celebration, Peter of London has organized a “40 Years of Beauty” event on Thursday, May 22, for their most valued customers and friends. A night dedicated to beauty and fashion. During the event, attendees will enjoy a Royal Fashion Show showcasing the evolution of fashion over the past four decades. Peter of London’s stylists will select a model and give them a complete transformation featuring the look of a particular era. Guests will also enjoy live music and exciting prizes; For more information visit: http://www.peteroflondon.com.

Fried & True at PAMM

On Tuesday, May 27, join PAMM for an exclusive dinner event on the waterfront terrace celebrating “Fried & True“, a new culinary adventure from Lee Brian Schrager with Adeena Sussman, featuring a foreword by Whoopi Goldberg with more than 50 recipes for America’s best fried chicken and sides.Preview recipes, showcased by Stephen STARR Events from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. On-site parking as available ($2/hour) / Metromover: Museum Park station / pamm.org/parking; members $175, non-members: $200 per ticket – includes tax & gratuity. Price includes dinner, sangria, live music and a signed copy of “Fried & True”Space is limited, reservations required events@pamm.org or call 305.375.1704.

The Restaurant at the Setai with Veuve Clicquot Champagne

The Restaurant at the Setai presents an exclusive dining experience with a four-course gourmet menu designed by Executive Chef Mathias Gervais with Veuve Clicquot Champagne pairings, hand-chosen by Chef Sommelier Dwayne Savoie. The special evening will be honoring top vintages of Veuve Clicquot Champagnes. This prestigious Champagne house, founded in 1772, is a leading innovator in the industry and continues its time-honored tradition of making “only one quality, the finest.” THE RESTAURANT – Thursday, May 29, Reception 7:30 p.m.; Dinner begins at 8:00 p.m. priced at $150 per person. Seating is limited. Reserve your wine dinner experience today by contacting 305.520.6400 or dining@thesetaihotel.com.

Summer Savings Pass: Lion Country Safari, Miami Seaquarium, Museum of Discovery and Science, Zoo Miami

Lion Country Safari, Miami Seaquarium, Museum of Discovery and Science and Zoo Miami will be offering a ‘Summer Savings Pass’ for the sixth year in a row.  The Summer Savings Pass will give buyers unlimited admission to all four attractions throughout the summer!   4 attractions…4 months of fun…1 low price.The Summer Savings Pass will be available for purchase at each of the participating parks beginning on May 19, and will be valid for admission to each of the attractions until September 30, 2014. Lion Country Safari, Miami Seaquarium, and Zoo Miami will also have the passes for sale online at their respective websites www.LionCountrySafari.com, www.miamiseaquarium.com and www.zoomiami.org. Museum of Discovery and Science will have the passes available by phone at 954.713.0930. At $56 plus tax, per adult and $46 plus tax, per child (ages 3-12), this pass grants unlimited admission through September 30, at Lion Country Safari, Miami Seaquarium, Museum of Discovery and Science and Zoo Miami. Annual Pass holders of these attractions will be eligible to purchase this pass for only $31 plus tax, per adult, and $21 plus tax, per child. For more information on the Summer Savings Pass visit www.summersavingspass.com.

EVITA at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and Broadway Across America are pleased to present the national tour of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s passionate and elegant masterpiece EVITA. The Tony Award-winning musical will play at the Arsht Center’s Ziff Ballet Opera House for a limited engagement from May 27 – June 1. EVITA closes the Broadway in Miami 2013-2014 subscription season presented by Bank of America. Tickets for EVITA are on sale now and start at $26.00*. For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call the Box Office at 305.949.6722. Groups of 10 or more should call 786.468.2326. 

By: Maryanne Salvat

Larios on the Beach Unveiling 

Larios on the Beach has been known as Miami Beach’s go-to destination for authentic, award-winning Cuban cuisine, world famous mojitos and a stunning view of South Beach’s Ocean Drive. Having undergone a complete renovation to its interiors, Larios on the Beach will to re-open to the public this Friday, May 16. In collaboration with the restaurant’s Executive Chef, Odell Torres, the Estefans have created a tempting new menu featuring traditional favorites as well as Cuban-inspired specialties including a “Calorie Conscious Cuban” – a selection of delicious, guilt-free Cuban staples created by Gloria herself; Valet parking available. For reservations or more information call 305.532.9577 or go to www.lariosonthebeach.com.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 12th Annual FedEx/St. Jude Angels & Stars Gala  

On May 17, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^® will celebrate its 12^th annual FedEx/St. Jude Angels & Stars gala, co-founded by Daisy Fuentes at the JW Marriott Marquis in downtown Miami. The Angels & Stars Gala sheds light on how the hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases; creating a positive environment for families to care for their children without financial burden. The dinner program will include a cocktail hour, fine dining, a silent auction and live performances by recording artists Willy Chirino and Jencarlos Canela. Also attending the star-studded event, which celebrates diversity, will be well-known presenters for their broadcast work in television and radio, including: Ana Maria Canseco, Raul Gonzalez, Alberto Sardiñas, Pamela Silva Conde, Jon Secada, Charytin Goyco, among others; For more information about tickets, sponsorships and auction items, visit stjude.org/miamigala or contact Carolina Masri at (800) 278-3383 or carolina.masri@stjude.org.  

Booze, Brunch & Boobs

Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House/Taperia Raca, Alberto Cabrera of Bread + Butter |pan con mantequilla and Jose Mendin of The Pubbelly Group – are joining forces with FMCancer, a public charity organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to young adults fighting cancer, to host a special charitable brunch on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at PB Steak in Sunset Harbour on South Beach. Dubbed Booze, Brunch & Boobs, Saturday’s event will directly benefit local Hilarey Reader Duarte, this quarter’s FMCancer beneficiary, who was diagnosed with Stage 3C breast cancer last October, just five weeks before her wedding. Reservations are required, as there are only two seatings – noon and 2:30 p.m. With spirits high, Reader Duarte and fellow brunchers lucky enough to snag a seat will feast on a six-course family-style tasting menu, created by all three cutting-edge chefs. The boozy brunch is priced at $50 per person, with the option of $20 Bottomless Zonin Prosecco Mimosas or $28 Bottomless Bloody Mary’s, Zonin Prosecco Mimosas, Sangria, & Micheladas.
PB Steak, located at 1787 Purdy Avenue in the Sunset Harbour area of Miami Beach, serves dinner seven days a week from 6 p.m. – midnight; lunch, via the Taco Belly pop-up Monday – Friday, from noon to 3 p.m., and Brunch Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., Reservations are accepted and can be made through www.pbsteak.com or The Food Network’s cityeats.com; Valet and plenty of municipal parking available. Telephone: 305 695 9550. www.pbsteak.com. 

Miami PULSE

On Saturday, May 17 at 10:30 p.m. at the Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s newest group of elite, young professionals are celebrating the culmination of their annual campaign with the Miami PULSE Party – a benefit of the American Heart Association.  Miami PULSE is chaired for the second consecutive year by Danny Mendoza and Evelyn Torres. Guests will enjoy unlimited drinks and cocktails provided by the official Liquor Sponsor, Southern Wine and Spirits, and indulge in catered bites and live entertainment for only 65.00, brought to you by Anthony Dardano (aka DJ ShobuPrime).  To purchase tickets, please visit:www.miamiheartball.ahaevents.org and click on the PULSE tab.   For more information, please call: 954.364.5015.

Jazz Brunch Gala Benefitting the Footprints Foundation

Celebrated mystery novelist and longtime Miami Judge Barbara Levenson has been named among the featured authors for this year’s literary gala benefiting the Footprints Foundation. Levenson, along with New York Times best-selling author Patricia Schultz (1000 Places to See Before Your Die), Betsy Chasse (Tipping Sacred Cows), Victoria Moran (Main Street Vegan), and Elsie Augustave (The Roving Tree) will appear at the Footprints Foundation Jazz Brunch on Saturday, May 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove. The Jazz Brunch Gala, which will feature an elegant brunch and music by the Les Haber Quintet, benefits the Footprints Foundation, an organization founded to reduce the mortality rates of mothers and infants in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jamaica, and Somaliland. Founded by Lorna Owens, a renowned nurse, mid-wife, life coach and attorney, The Footprints Foundation works to train skilled midwives and traditional birth attendants in the essentials of maternal and newborn care. Tickets for the Jazz Brunch Literary Gala are $130 per person in advance of the event, or $190 per person at the door. For more information, visit www.footprints-foundation.org.

Chef’s Round Table  

In true royal form, Mango king and Taste of the Nation South Florida event chairman, Allen Susser, has selected some of South Florida’s most talented chefs and honored them with a metaphorical seat at this year’s Chef’s Roundtable. This elite group of culinarians is responsible for selecting over 50 of the city’s most prolific restaurants, chefs, sommeliers and mixologists to participate in this year’s Taste of the Nation South Florida and to celebrate this year’s amazing lineup and most anticipated gastronomic event, the Chef’s Roundtable will be hosting a pre-event party at Tongue & Cheek restaurant on Miami Beach on Monday, May 19 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The night will feature comfort dishes reminiscent of each of the chefs’ childhood. Members of the Chef’s Roundtable include: Timon Balloo of Bocce Bar and SUGARCANE raw bar grill and Taste of the Nation’s restaurant chair; Todd Erickson of HaVen and Huahua’s Taqueria; Jamie DeRosa of Tongue & Cheek; Jessica Rothschild of Rock Star Pastries; Bret Pelaggi of Uvaggio; Paula DaSilva of 3030 Ocean and Frederick Delaire of Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Cocktails provided by Tito’s Vodka. Tickets for the pre-event are priced at $100 per person; $25 only when purchased with a Taste of the Nation VIP ticket ($250). One hundred percent of the proceeds will benefit Share Our Strength; Valet and street parking available. Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased in advance via .