By: Maryanne Salvat 

Benihana Invites you to Be the Chef 

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a fun, interactive cooking and dining experience- as only Benihana can provide! The Benihana “Be the Chef”  package includes personal training on tabletop hibachi and knife skills, a signature Benihana chef hat and apron, diploma and commemorative photo. A perfect treat for yourself or an aspiring chef! Guests of the newly trained chef will also enjoy a delicious meal of Benihana soup, Benihana salad, shrimp appetizer, hibachi vegetables, Splash ‘N Meadow entrees, homemade dipping sauces and Japanese hot green tea. All of Benihana’s steaks and vegetables are hand-cut in-house and delivered daily-to ensure freshness. The “Be the Chef Basic Package” costs $140 for four people (the chef and 3 guests), and additional guests are $35 per person. The “Be the Chef Special Package” is $250 for a party of 8.  One thing is for sure- you and your entire group will have an unforgettably fun and filling adventure! For more information, visit: http://www.benihana.com/be-the-chef/. 

17th Annual Zenith Watches Best Buddies Miami Gala 

Best Buddies International will be hosting their 17th Annual Zenith Watches Best Buddies Miami Gala on November 22 at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The groundbreaking nonprofit foundation established in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver has created a global volunteer movement that builds opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This year Best Buddies is pleased to announce that Carlos Slim Helú will be honored during the Miami gala.   The event will have a festive Art Deco theme and will feature a fabulous cocktail hour, gourmet dinner, exclusive live and silent auctions, and a performance by special musical guest Sean Paul.  For tickets or to become a Miami Gala sponsor contact Natalie Van Eron at NatalieVanEron@bestbuddies.org.

Gilt City Warehouse Sale 

On November 23, join The Gilt City Warehouse Sale at Miami’s Ice Palace. The legendary Gilt City Miami Warehouse Sale features Gilt’s top designer brands—from men’s and women’s fashion to home accessories, kids goods and more— all at up to 90% off retail prices!  For the ladies, you can expect to see fashion’s from the likes of Zac Posen, Missoni, Vera Wang, Badgley Mischka, Carolina Herrera and more.  And for the men, you’ll find John Varvatos, Paul Smith, and GANT to name a few.  Fashion-lovers will be able to peruse dresses, jackets, sweaters, skirts, denim, suits, coats, tees and tanks from their favorite Gilt brands.  And for those who love accessories – you’ll find handbags, bangles, boots, pumps, sneakers, belts, sunglasses and more! Plus, new this year, Gilt.com has partnered with Infiniti to offer a pair of all-new 2014 Q50 sedans designed exclusively by Thom Browne and Zac Posen.  The two custom tailored vehicles – one designed by Mr. Browne and one designed by Mr. Posen – will be on showcase within special concept rooms at the Gilt City Miami Warehouse Sale, fashioned by the two designers.  Gilt City Miami members are invited to view the two one-of-a-kind Q50 vehicles at this special elevated shopping event, combining the world of fashion with the luxuriousness of the all-new 2014 InfinitiQ50.  Infiniti will also provide attendees with the opportunity to test-drive or ride-along in one of their new fleet of vehicles, including the 2014 Q50.  On December 12 the two custom designed vehicles will be available for purchase exclusively on Gilt at www.gilt.com/InfinitiQ50  . 

Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Christmas Tree Sale 

For over 35 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been selling Christmas trees and wreaths to help bring holiday cheer into many South Florida households, and it continues this tradition in 2013. One hundred percent of proceeds from the trees and wreaths sales will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, which serves thousands of boys and girls in Miami-Dade County with positive programs year-round.  To kick off the 2013 selling season, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will hold a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony at the tree lot on Monday, November 25 at 4:00 p.m. at the Hank Kline Club. Attending will be Santa Claus himself to visit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade children, local dignitaries and Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade board members and representatives. The trees, gorgeous Fraser firs hand selected in North Carolina by Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s President Alex Rodriguez-Roig, stand 5’ to 14’ feet tall and sell for $55 and up. Plain and hand-decorated wreaths will also be for sale, starting at $35. The tree lot will be open seven days a week or until all trees are sold out.

 By: Maryanne Salvat

Evening in the Gardens

On Friday, November 15, join LACOSTE for the annual Everglades Foundation “Evening in the Gardens” on at Pinecrest Gardens.  Music, cocktails and buffet supper will take place in The Meadow from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. For tickets and more information about the event visit: http://www.evergladesfoundation.org/events/save-the-date-foreverglades-miami/. 

JetBlue Airways and HaVen Gastro-Lounge’s “Destination Saturdays”

On Saturday, November 16, JetBlue Airways will take over HaVen Gastro-Lounge’s “Destination Saturdays” party series in honor of the airline’s new daily nonstop service to its southernmost destination, Lima, Peru.Destination Saturdays is a themed party series that “transports” guests to a different exotic locale each week via the high-hotspot’s digital wrap-around walls, complete with a wait-staff dressed as flight attendants and captain DJ Kristian Caro to pilot the revelry. South Florida foodies will also have an opportunity to preview cocktails and eats from Chef Todd Erickson’s “South Florida-meets-Peru” collaboration menu – created in tandem with Peruvian top toque Pedro Miguel Schiaffino of Lima’s critically acclaimed Malabar Restaurant. Guests will enjoy Avion tequila bottle specials and the chance to win one of five sets (10 total) of round-trip travel vouchers, valid on JetBlue Airways service from Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood Int. Airport to Jorge Chavez Int. Airport in Lima, Peru. Destination Lima runs from 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. at HaVen Gastro-Lounge. One raffle winner will be announced each hour during the event. Admission is complimentary and based on capacity. For more information on Destination Saturdays or to reserve a table contact RSVP@havenlounge.com or call 305.987.8885.Lima will be JetBlue’s 81^st BlueCity and its fourth destination in South America. Fares for U.S.-originating flights to Lima are available at www.jetblue.com for travel beginning November 21. 

LUCKYRICE Miami Feast Presented by BOMBAY SAPPHIRE East®

LUCKYRICE Miami Feast presented by BOMBAY SAPPHIRE East® will return on Friday, November 15 from 7:30-11:00 p.m. at The Raleigh Pool and Oasis. The Miami Feast follows on the heels of the popular fourth-annual New York Festival and events in Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco. General Admission tickets are $88 for general admission and $125 for VIP. A limited number of American Express VIP tickets (which includes early access from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and a private demo and meet-and-greet opportunity with Iron Chef Morimoto prior to the start of the event) are also available for $150.Tickets are available at www.luckyrice.com;Tickets are $88 for general admission and $125 for VIP. (VIP access is from 7:00 -8:00pm and provides all-evening access to the VIP Chefs Lounge). To add to the festivities, guests will be invited to dress in “firecracker” or “chili pepper” red to reflect the spicy flavors prominent in Latino and Asian cuisines. 

Shop to Stop MS

The University of Miami MS Center for Excellence, hosts the fifth annual Shop to Stop MS on Wednesday, November 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Saks Fifth Avenue, Dadeland. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Alina Villasante, Creator of Peace Love World and Diana Riser, MIAMI Magazine Publisher. Local tastemakers and MS activists will be invited to enjoy fine wine, cocktails and tastings from local restaurants. Participating establishments include; Aroma Espresso, Brio Tuscan Grille, Eventology, Earl Kitchen + Bar, Fare to Remember, Joanna’s Marketplace, Joelle’s Desserts & Gifts, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pernod Ricard USA, RA Sushi Bar, Town Kitchen & Bar and Southern Wine & Spirits.  Tickets to the event are $60; in addition, guests will receive a $25 Saks Fifth Avenue gift card to use anytime. Saks Fifth Avenue is proud to donate 10 percent of the event sales to benefit the University of Miami MS Center for Excellence. Moreover, guests can purchase Peace Love World selected merchandise during the event at Saks Dadeland. One hundred percent of the purchase price of Peace Love World benefits the University of Miami MS Center of Excellence MS Research and Patient Care Fund.  For more information and to purchase tickets call 305.243.1388 or visit www.miami.edu/shoptostopms. 

Scarpetta Celebrates Its 5^th Anniversary

On Wednesday, November 20, Scarpetta, Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s award-winning Italian eatery helmed by celebrity chef Scott Conant, will celebrate its fifth anniversary with a four-course prix-fixe dinner with the renowned chef as the host. Featuring recipes from Conant’s new The Scarpetta Cookbook (October 15, 2013, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) executed by Scarpetta’s chef de cuisine and Top Chef contestant, Nina Compton, the delicious four-course menu is priced at $95 per person and includes a copy of the book. An optional wine flight may be added to the meal for an additional $45 per person (includes four 3 oz. premium selections). Tax and gratuity are not included and reservations are required. Scarpetta opens daily for dinner at 6:00 p.m. For reservations, call 877.326.7412 or book online at http://www.opentable.com/scarpetta-miami-beach. 

Tongue & Cheek “KITCHEN COLLAB” Wrap Up

Tongue &Cheek’s series of special guest chef dinners, “KITCHEN COLLAB,” will wrap up its 2013 edition on Wednesday, November 20 with executive chef/ owner Jamie DeRosa pairing up with one of South Florida’s most celebrated local talents, Chef Paula DaSilva, who recently returned to 3030 Ocean at the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale. Following the success of the previous collabs with acclaimed chefs Lindsay Autry and Clay Conley, DeRosa and DaSilva will team up to create an intimate, multi-course dinner that incorporates each other’s cooking styles resulting in an unforgettable culinary experience. Priced at $75 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) diners will be welcomed by complimentary cocktails and an array of hors d’oeuvres. Afterwards, they will enjoy an amazing five course dinner created by the talented duo and will receive a special “swag bag” to take home at the end of the night. A beverage pairing is also available for an additional $25 per person (excluding tax and gratuity). Start time: 7 p.m. Seating is limited and must be purchased in advance. For reservations, call: 305.704.2900. As the New Year approaches, make sure to stay tuned for upcoming collaborations with some special twists.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

The “Wig and Stache Bash” for the Lowe Art Museum at UM 

On November 9, join Beaux Arts at the “Wig & Stache Bash” to celebrate Miami’s oldest costume ball and the organization’s ongoing support for the University of Miami’s Lowe Art Museum at the Coral Gables Country Club. Evening events will include a large silent auction, featuring over 200 items valued at over $150,000, a sit-down dinner, dancing, a costume and skit competition, and an exciting raffle, in which the purchase of a raffle ticket will go toward sending an underprivileged student to Beaux Arts Art Camp.  61^st Annual Beaux Arts Ball sponsors include Mercedes Benz of Coral Gables and Cutler Bay, Bermont Advisory Group of Raymond James, AON, Northern Trust, Lowell International Realty, The Haggard Law Firm, Hillary Littlejohn Scurtis Interior Design, TUUCI, Windhaven Insurance, and Nicole Wilson Lozano. Funds raised at the event will be used for exhibitions, improvements and acquisitions to the Lowe’s permanent collection, as well as to finance the organization’s flagship program, Hands On!, which exposes underserved children from Miami-Dade to the visual arts. Tickets are $250 per person; to reserve, email beauxartsinfo@beauxartsmiami.org. 

Kenneth Cole Book Launch at Bloomingdales Aventura 

On November 9, legendary designer Kenneth Cole will be celebrating the launch of his coffee table book, This is a Kenneth Cole Production, a commemoration of Cole’s 30 year career in fashion and social engagements. The designer will be on hand at Bloomingdales Aventura Mall for his first South Florida appearance. All profits from the book will be donated to amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade Hosts “Wild About Kids” Gala

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade is once again hosting its acclaimed annual “Wild About Kids” black-tie gala on Saturday, November 9, at Four Seasons Hotel Miami, Grand Ballroom. The 7th annual fundraising event will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade and its many positive programs, such as after school programs, homework assistance, computer training, social skills, dance, arts & crafts, professional mentoring, and summer and athletic programs, for area children who need them the most. The event’s Presenting Sponsor is 4 Beauty Aesthetic Institute Inc./Dr. Constantino and Mrs. Nina Mendieta.  The gala will kick off with a VIP party offering photo ops with honorees at 6:30 p.m. A cocktail reception will take place at 7:30 p.m., followed by dinner and the program at 8:30 p.m. An after party, also at Four Seasons Hotel Miami, will begin at 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening into the wee hours with Frank Sinatra-style entertainer Jeff Grainer, a D.J, dancing, an open bar and small bites. Underwriting opportunities, starting at $300, still remain. Table sales are sold out. Individual tickets for the gala are still available at $500 per ticket, and for the after party at $50 per ticket. 

Gala co-chairs are Lana DeSimone, Irene Korge and Eris Thomas; special events chair

For more information about sponsorship and underwriting opportunities, in-kind gift donations, and tickets, contact Astrid H. Ehrenstein, director of special events & development at 305-446-9910 ext. 30 or aehrenstein@bgcmia.org.

Spain’s Great Match

On Tuesday, November 12, gain greater knowledge of Spain’s wine, food and culture during Spain’s Great Match. Meet and greet winery representatives, importers and distributors during this exclusive trade and media preview tasting at 12:30 p.m. at the Moore Building in the Design District. Discover new wines, grapes and regions as you taste your way through Spain with the more than 200 offerings. Attend an in-depth seminar of Grandes Pagos de España* with renowned experts. To RSVP visit: sgmmiami.eventbrite.com; a business card or proof of affiliation at registration is required. Attendees must be at least 21 years old. For information, call 646.624.2885 extension 112 or by email at: events@colangelopr.com.

Colette Little French Bistro

For an authentic slice if Paris, head to  Colette Little French Bistro, Chef Frederick Boldron and French restaurateur Francis Pittilloni’s new restaurant-so French- you will forget you are in bustling Lincoln Road.  Colette Little French Bistro proves its name is as authentic as the menu. The French bistro fare includes mussels marinieres, (not to be missed), escargots, steak au poivre, French onion soup, and Colette’s signature Cajun chicken. Thanks to Francis’ French/Italian roots, other outstanding menu items include the mushroom risotto and the Colette pizza- a white pizza of Swiss and goat cheeses drizzled with honey- the recipe of which has been in the family for centuries.  Watch chef Frederick Boldron perfectly execute his dishes through the visible kitchen that sets the home-style atmosphere for the equally cozy and chic dining room interior. From Serge Gainsbourg to Amy Winehouse, and everything in between, the eclectic soundtrack will keep you guessing, as will the pizzas you will unexpectedly find on the menu. An extensive list of French wines will tantalize your palette and your wallet. The entire menu is approachable for everyday dining, geared for locals-with no occasion necessary to enjoy. Open for dinner seven days a week, and opening for lunch next month, Colette Little French Bistro is proud to present great food and service wrapped in a warm and inviting setting. Nice born Chef Boldron, who started his career in the kitchens of France’s top Michelin rated restaurants including L’Ane Rouge, La Grande Cascade and Le Bristol, has most recently served as Chef de Cuisine in some of Miami’s most bustling kitchens including Tosca, Villa Mayfair, La Goulue and Vita.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

19th Annual InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish Ball 

On Saturday, November 2, Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida and InterContinental® Miami will celebrate the 19th Annual InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish Ball with a theme inspired by the Vaudevillian era.  Grammy-nominated recording artist Adam Lambert will perform and actress Gabrielle Anwar will return as Celebrity Auctioneer of the Ball, which is chaired by philanthropist Shareef Malnik. In its 18-year history, the event has raised more than $12.3 million, enough to grant wishes for 2,620 children with life-threatening medical conditions. Guests will end the evening with a performance by Adam Lambert, the Indiana-born, California-bred, electro-pop artist who started his career on the eighth season of American Idol. For the sixth consecutive year, Nightclub Vice Chairman Michael Capponi of The Capponi Group will spearhead the official Ball after-party at the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Nightclub, introducing Make-A-Wish Southern Florida to the next generation of contributors. Designer Traver Rains will headline the “La Nuit Magique” fashion show, leaving guests time-traveling back to the 1930’s and Vaudevillian acts. Tickets can be purchased at https://hotelballafterparty2013.eventbrite.com. Individual nightclub tickets cost $100. Although the tables and tickets for the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball are sold out, wish sponsorships are still available starting at $5,000. For more information, please visit www.makeawishball.com.  

Toro Toro Miami 

Toro Toro Miami, renowned chef/restaurateur Richard Sandoval’s inventive, Pan-Latin contemporary steakhouse, has been earning rave reviews by critics, foodies and locals since it opened in October 2012. The sleek, sexy restaurant and bar, located at the iconic InterContinental Miami hotel, is celebrating its first birthday with a special, prix-fixe three-course tasting menu. From now through November 30,priced at $39 per person – excluding tax and gratuity – the restaurant will offer its loyal patrons and welcomed newcomers a diverse selection of small plates, entrees and decadent desserts.  

March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction presented by Goya Foods

One of South Florida’s most popular annual food and wine fundraisers, March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction presented by Goya Foods, will return for its 16th year on Wednesday, November 6, featuring an array of amazing chefs from Miami’s most popular restaurants.  The event begins at 6:30 p.m., taking place at the Hyatt Regency Miami in downtown Miami. This year’s extravaganza will showcase dozens of Miami’s top chefs including Timon Balloo of SUGARCANE raw bar grill, Wolfgang Birk of Area 31, David Bracha of Oak Tavern, Aaron Brooks of Edge Steak & Bar at The Four Seasons, Alberto Cabrera of Bread+Butter, Nina Compton of Scarpetta at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Jamie DeRosa of Tongue & Cheek, Fernando Desa of GOYA, Daisy Diaz of Sabores Café, Eric Do of Toro Toro Miami, Paolo Dorigato of Dolce Italian, Todd Erickson of HaVen Gastro-Lounge and Huahua’s Taqueria, Conor Hanlon of The Dutch at W South Beach, Willy Hernandez of Zielo Restaurant, Alan Hughes of The Embassy, Brian Nasajon of SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables, Luis Quant of Bulla Gastrobar, Philippe Ruiz of Lippi Restaurant, Doug Sisk of The Social Club at Surfcomber and Cesar  Zapata of The Federal. Tables of ten are $3,000, and individual tickets are $300 per person, which includes admission to a special “Meet the Chefs” Reception at 6:30 p.m.  All proceeds from the event benefit the March of Dimes. For more event information and to purchase tables or tickets visit marchofdimes.com/florida. 

5^th annual “Kites for a Cure ®”

Lily’s Light will host its 5^th annual “Kites for a Cure ®,” this year sponsored by Memorial Cancer Institute benefiting Uniting Against Lung Cancer on Saturday, November 3, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. (rain or shine) at Tropical Park’s The Hill (Pavilion 10) in Miami, FL. Admission is free but for a donation of $25 ($30 day of), guests receive their own kite to decorate and keep, a T-shirt, a snack sponsored by Whole Foods, and a raffle ticket. This year there will be face painting and a bounce house to mark the 5^th anniversary of the event. Hundreds of families are expected to gather at Tropical Park, to decorate and fly their kites with special messages for family members and friends, or general messages of love and hope in an effort to raise lung cancer awareness. Lily’s Light was founded in 2009 in memory of Lily Plaza, a South Florida resident and non-smoker who passed away from lung cancer in 2008. Lily’s Light is a partner of Uniting Against Lung Cancer, a national lung cancer research foundation that has awarded more than $10 million in research grants into diagnosis, treatment and a cure for the disease since 2003. Lung cancer is the nation’s #1 cancer killer, claiming more than 160,000 lives in the U.S. this year alone. To register, make a donation or learn more about Lily’s Light and Uniting Against Lung Cancer, visit the event’s web site at www.lilyslight.org or www.facebook.com/lilyslight.  If you have questions or would like to volunteer, email lilyslight@bellsouth.net.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Peace Love World Turns One!

On Friday, October 25, from 5:30 to 10:00 p.m., Alina Villasante of Peace Love World invites you to join her for the first anniversary of the Peace Love World Miracle Mile store!  Celebrate this great milestone with light refreshments, bubbly, music and more. Don’t miss out on the LOVE PARTY and make sure to pick up your surprise gift before you leave. 

Halloween Happenings

Tongue & Cheek Halloween Treat

On Saturday, October 26, Tongue & Cheek, South of Fifth’s quirky and playful restaurant, will celebrate October’s most anticipated holiday with a fun-filled, Halloween inspired brunch for the whole family from noon until 2:00 p.m.  Along with a hauntingly delicious à la carte kids menu, which is complimentary for all children under the age of 12, the neighborhood eatery will have fun activities and entertainment throughout the afternoon including pumpkin painting, costume contests and balloon artists. T&C’s regular Sunday brunch menu is available for adults with some additional Halloween treats and drink specials including “True Blood” Bloodies, traditional “Zombie” cocktail, “Dark and Stormys” and more. 

Mansion Hosts the 4th Annual Back in Black

Mansion will host the 4th Annual Back in Black featuring  Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, David Tort and Wolfpack on Saturday, October 26. The largest 21+ costume event in South Florida, with Fetish attire preferred, this event formerly situated in Midtown Miami with past acts including Sebastian Ingrosso, Alesso,  Erick Morillo, and many more, hits South Beach for the first time ever. On Thursday, October 31, Mansion will also play host to DJ Rony Seikaly. The hotspot will be transformed into a house of thrills and terror as this NBA legend and mega producer takes the turntables.

The Little Lighthouse Foundation’s 4^th Annual Halloween Fundraiser

Join The Little Lighthouse Foundation for its 4th annual Halloween fundraiser, Nightmare on the Beach: Fantasmi Della Villa Vecchia on Saturday, October 26! The Halloween extravaganza will be at the world-renowned Miami Beach estate Villa Vecchia, which will host an evening full of fundraising and fright. Attendees will travel into Fantasmi Della Villa Vecchia through a haunted mansion where upon entry guests will be treated to unlimited premium cocktails all night, food from Villa Azur, Brother Jimmy’s, Todo Dulces, and Catering Concepts, music by Lee Kalt and performances from Cirque de Mansion. Noblita Clothing expands its LA influence to South Florida, introducing its Collins Avenue retail location during #NOTB2013. Open bar highlights the Patron flight featuring Patron Cafe XO, Ultimat Vodka, and Pyrat Rum. Perrier Sparkling Natural Mineral Water will supply its full portfolio of sparkling natural mineral water. Nightmare on the Beach, which has been rated Miami’s top Halloween party, sells out each year and is a must for South Florida’s movers and shakers. To purchase tickets visit: http://www.nightmareonthebeach.com/ or call  305.417.8553.

Halloween Sundowner at Vizcaya

Halloween Sundowner at Vizcaya is this Saturday night, October 26 from 7:00 pm to midnight! Enjoy the hottest and most anticipated Halloween party in Miami right on Vizcaya’s scenic bayfront veranda! See and be seen at this all inclusive event where costumes are a must and sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity! Open bar, hors d’oeuvres, music, parking and entrance to the after party are included in the price of each ticket. Tickets are $165 each. For more information, call 305.674.8278 or rsvp@vizcayans.org.

SUSHISAMBA Miami Beach

The Lincoln Road outpost of the Japanese/Brazilian/Peruvian fusion restaurants celebrates its 8th Annual Cosplay Halloween Party, complete with Japanese pop-inspired costumes, music, candy and fun contests & prizes. The party will take place on October 31 inside the restaurant, with a giant street celebration on Pennsylvania Avenue. Smoked pumpkin caipirinhas ($12) will be available for purchase.  

Quattro Gastronomia Italiana

Quattro provides the perfect perch for people-watching every Halloween. For $95/person ($75/person for inside reservations) Lincoln Road’s Italian gem will offer a delicious, 4 course prix fixed dinner on October 31. Diners can delight in the Halloween fanfare and marvel at the trick-or-treaters in their elaborate costumes while enjoying seasonal dishes such as pumpkin gnocchi with gorgonzola and walnut sauce. 

The Betsy South Beach

The Betsy evokes the eerie spirit of Edgar Allen Poe this Halloween. From October 31 through November 3, the hotel will offer a special holiday libation, The Westminster Flip ($12). Made with Brandy (Poe’s favorite spirit), egg, Benedictine and organic maple syrup this Poe-inspired potion is sure to please.

SET Hosts Pimps & Hoes

Join SET for the ultimate Pimps & Hoes party to end all Halloween parties. SET South Beach is rolling out the red carpet for the most over-the-top costumes – where less is more – and pimp cups are welcome. Break out your fish nets, corsets, purple suits and canes for the wildest Halloween yet.  SET is giving out cash prizes and complimentary VIP tables to the best outfits of the evening.

By: Maryanne Salvat

maryannesalvat@aol.com 

Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour Key To The Cure 

To help raise both money and awareness for women’s cancers, Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour will once again partner with The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center to host this year’s Key To The Cure, a charity shopping weekend taking place October 17 through October 20. During the shopping weekend, 2% of participating vendor sales from Saks Bal Harbour – up to $500,000 – will be donated to the Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center. Actress Jennifer Aniston has been named the 2013 Entertainment Industry Foundation’s ambassador for Saks Fifth Avenue’s 2013 Key to The Cure campaign.  In support of this program, Ms. Aniston will appear in a national public service announcement (PSA) wearing a limited-edition Key To The Cure T-shirt by celebrated designer Peter Dundas of Emilio Pucci. The T-shirt retails for $35 in Saks stores, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH stores or at www.mountsinaifoundation.org/KeyToTheCure. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the purchase price of each T-shirt sold at Saks Bal Harbour and via the Mount Sinai online site will be donated to The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center.

First Annual MEDDY Awards

Medical and lifestyle organizations will gather on Friday, October 18, 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., for the 1st Annual MEDDY Awards, at Hyde Beach in the SLS Hotel, to honor those who have contributed to medical missions abroad. The event, presented by NBC6 reporter Kelly Blanco, will benefit local charity Jose’s Hands, and feature an inspiring Beauty & Fashion Experience, in collaboration with celebrity-endorsed designer Kymerah, luxury salon Warren-Tricomi, and modeling agency Quintessential Promotions. The evening will also count with performances by renowned local female powerhouse DJ YSL, alongside Miami’s celebrity drummer David Silva. Tickets can be purchased at www.joseshands.com/weekend. 

Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure 

More than 20,000 walkers and runners will join together for the Susan G. Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale 18^th Annual Race for the Cure® on Saturday, October 19, starting at 7:30am, at Bayfront Park. The Race will honor breast cancer survivors, support those dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis and raise funds for research to end breast cancer. Seventy five percent (75%) of net proceeds from the event stay in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties to support local breast cancer programs. To register or volunteer go towww.komenmiaftl.orgor call 305.383.7116.

Connor Cruise at SET!

SET hosts DJ Connor Cruise on Saturday, October 19.  After completing recent tours across the globe, Connor Cruise has begun to make his mark across the electronic music world and the young stars future continues to look bright! Cruise has been spending time in the studio as a producer, working on remixes and original tracks with Grammy-nominated producer/DJ Andy Caldwell as well as Black Eyed Peas DJ/producer Poet.  His remix of “Feed me Diamonds” by MNDR was picked by Ultra records and was featured on David Letterman. He has also worked with similar artists such as the Veronicas, creating unique and creative remixes. Cruise has several original tracks in the pipeline that are poised to be hits worldwide; For tickets visit: http://www.wantickets.com/Events/140172/Connor-Cruise-at-SET-Nightclub/.

MISO: The Miami Symphony Orchestra

On Sunday, October 20, celebrate 25 years with The Miami Symphony Orchestra as they welcome back popular Spanish classical guitarist Ángel Romero, along with the virtuosic pianist Andreas Boyde, to commemorate MISO’s 25th Anniversary Season. Maestro Eduardo Marturet leads a colorful program that includes his very own homage to Cuban painter Waldo Balart, Beethoven’s magnificent Emperor Concerto, and the rich, warm sonorities of Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez. For more information or to purchase tickets visit: http://themiso.org. 

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Turns 25! 

Celebrating its 25^th season this week, FUNKSHION hosts high fashion events all week long including the RedDress Show presented by the American Heart Association.   Heart disease being the number one killer of women, FUNKSHION Miami treasures the opportunity to create as much awareness as possible and raise money for the fight against this disease.  For a complete schedule of events visit: http://www.funkshion.com/schedule.html. 

Happenings at The Flat Miami 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Flat is thinking pink and introducing a specialty drink to their handcrafted cocktail menu for socially conscious sippers. During the entire month of October, patrons can enjoy Pink is the New Black ($13), a combination of vodka and St. Germain topped with a sparkling rosé and a splash of antioxidant rich cranberry juice. Twenty percent of proceeds from each drink will benefit The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit, grassroots organization dedicated to ending breast cancer through advocacy, education, and research. All donations will remain in the State of Florida to support programs for Florida residents and institutions. 

To welcome the fall, The Flat has created a multi-course cocktail menu designed to “wet” the appetite. Based on the concept of the Miami Spice tasting menus, the Flat’s limited edition cocktail menu is a liquid adaption where patrons can enjoy a series of satisfying sips for only $33. Enjoy a selection of cocktails that progress over the palate from light-bodied to rich and dark, comparable to the complexity of a perfectly paired menu’s appetizer, entrée and dessert. The menu includes The Suite 180, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, Aperol, agave nectar and orange cream bitters topped with champagne. This light, citrus cocktail prepares the pallet for The First Date, a hearty, main course made with gin, yellow chartreuse, honey, and lemon juice. Cap off the evening with The Jesserna, a digestif dessert of muddled raspberries, bourbon, vanilla beans, Averna Italian Liqueur and lemon juice; for more information visit, www.theflatmiami.com.   

SeaFood Spice at The Trapiche Room 

With less than one month left of the ever-popular SeaFood Spice promotion, those seeking a romantic and intimate dining experience must visit The Trapiche Room. Located within Brickell’s JW Marriott Miami, the restaurant’s convenient location and serene setting affords Downtown’s movers and shakers the ideal venue for a working power lunch. When the sun sets, The Trapiche Room transforms into the city’s most intimate dining venue. Executive Chef Daniel Goldich offers refined Mediterranean dishes in a warm, candlelight environment. Complete with mahogany fixtures and classic décor, The Trapiche Room is just a few feet away from the hotel’s outdoor La Terresa. A stark contrast to The Trapiche Room, La Terrasa featuring gorgeous city views and eclectic nautical furniture, perfect for after dinner drinks and cigars.  http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miajw-jw-marriott-hotel-miami/  or 305.329.3500.

Not So Scary Halloween Bash at MCM 

It’s not so scary, but all your little ghosts and goblins are guaranteed to have a boo-tiful time at Miami Children’s Museum’s “Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash!” on Sunday, October 20 from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Miami Children’s Museum on Watson Island. Considered one of Miami’s best Family Halloween events, you and your family are guaranteed to have a great and ghostly time as your costumed trick-or-treaters make their candy collecting way around the Museum’s 14 galleries.  Enjoy Miami’s best family friendly haunted house, create crazed crafts and become part of our fun and colorful costume parade.  Families are bound to have a bewitching time and will enjoy creating miniature pumpkin and sugar skulls, face painting, dancing the Monster Mash, eating delectable treats, taking part in our a silent auction and much, much more. All the proceeds from the Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash benefit the Museum’s educational programs. Individual tickets to the “Not So Scary Halloween Bash” are just $30.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members when purchased before October 1st.  After October 1^st,  Individual tickets become $40.00 for members and $50.00 for non-members. A Family Package for $200.00 is also available that includes 6 tickets.  For more information, to learn about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/halloween or call 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 120.

Dark Dining at City Hall The Restaurant

On Friday, October 25, City Hall the Restaurant will host Dark Dining, a unique dining experience that promotes communication and enhances your senses. Dark Dining allows people without disabilities to get a better understanding of what life is like for individuals with visual impairments. Dark Dining provides diners with the opportunity to experience a first class meal while blindfolded. “This unique event is a sensory overload dining experience you won’t want to miss!!” says Steven Haas, owner of City Hall the Restaurant. Call 305-764-3130to make a reservation. $125 per person includes a four course dinner with wine pairings, tax and gratuity. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Miami Lighthouse for the Blind.