By: Maryanne Salvat

msalvat@miamisocialholic.com 

Benihana Passport Challenge 

Join Benihana for their yearlong Passport Challenge promotion celebrating their 50^th anniversary! Guests who visit the most Benihana locations during the calendar year will be eligible to win a grand prize trip to Tokyo, Japan! Other prizes include a trips to the Benihana location of choice within the United States and over $10,000 in gift cards. Readers can register to participate at www.Benihana.com and earn additional entries by uploading a digital photo taken when they visit any participating restaurant in 2014. 

Whitney Linen Resort Wear Trunk Show 

This weekend Whitney Linen will launch their second exclusive Resort Wear Trunk show. The Mediterranean-inspired pieces will be showcased at Canyon Ranch Miami on Friday and Saturday, January 10 and 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  The Linen home collection will also be presented alongside the luxurious women and menswear; for more information visit www.whitneylinen.com or contact whitney@whitneylinen.com. 

Dinner in Paradise with Chef Dewey LoSasso 

Chef Dewey LoSasso of Acqualina Resort & Spa’s presents Dinner in Paradise at Paradise Farms (19801 SW 320th St, Homestead) on Sunday, January 12 starting at 5:00 p.m. Proceeds will benefit local charity “Learning in Paradise” an outreach program that will host children’s field trips to the farm. Chef LoSasso will be cooking alongside Chef Wolfgang Birk and Chef Nicolas Cabrera. Tickets are $165.50 per person plus tax and processing. To purchase tickets visit:  http://paradisefarms.net/dinner-in-paradise/.

YoungArts Week

Beginning this week through January 12, The National YoungArts Foundation will host YoungArts week. A select group, 171 to be exact, of the most talented blooming artists will participate in the life-altering competition that will award a series of cash prizes ranging up to $10,000; master classes and workshops with internationally renowned artists such as Frank Gehry, Irving Sandler, Rita Moreno, Andrew Rannells, Shelly Berg, Shalita Grant, Lourdes Lopez, and Judith Hill and much more. The YoungArts finalists will have the opportunity to wow audiences with public performances, readings and a visual arts exhibition at venues including the New World Center, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the National YoungArts Foundation Campus. Tickets are available starting at $10 and can be purchased here via the YoungArts website. Ticket Information: gala@youngarts.org or 305.377.1140. Event Website: http://www.youngarts.org/gala.

Les Dames D’Escoffier Miami Host Giant Gourmet Garage Sale 

Mark your calendars, on Saturday, January 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Les Dames D’Escoffier Miami   (LDEM) will present their annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale at the Galleria of the Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Avenue in Coral Gables.  LDEM is  a non-profit organization comprised of female culinary, wine, hospitality and farming professionals dedicated to funding scholarships for young South Florida women, supporting regional agriculture and funding organic school vegetable gardens, nutrition and cooking educational programs for area youth and South Florida’s farm labor force. The event is free and open to the public and proceeds from sales will help underwrite Les Dames projects; for more information, www.lesdamesmiami.org. 

Drink Around The World Festival to Benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities® of South Florida 

On Saturday, January 25, the first annual Drink Around the World Festival fundraising event will celebrate the diverse wines, spirits, and microbrews of the world in the Moore Building in the Miami Design District. Proceeds from the event benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of South Florida, whose mission is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children in South Florida. The fundraising event will showcase 100+ libations from around the world, all for sampling under one roof. Designed to give every guest a VIP Experience, Drink Around the World event goers will enjoy unlimited samplings of hand-picked wines, vodkas, rums, tequilas, whiskeys, gin, microbrews and more from all corners of the world. For complete listing of participating wines and spirits, visit and like them on Facebook facebook.com/DrinkAroundWorldFest.

To purchase tickets,visit: www.drinkaroundtheworldfestival.com. This event is for patrons 21 and older. 

ASSASSINS

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and Zoetic Stage are proud to present the Miami premiere of ASSASSINS, Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman’s Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning revue-style musical based on the men and women who have attempted, successfully or not, to assassinate American presidents. Playing January 30 – February 23, 2014 in the intimate Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House), ASSASSINS continues the Arsht Center’s highly acclaimed 2013-2014 Theater Up Close Series which features artistic collaborations from stellar local theater ensembles and nationally acclaimed theater companies.  ASSASSINS is made possible with support from Jerry and Adrianne Cohen.Tickets to ASSASSINS are $45*, and may be purchased now through the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling 305.949.6722 or online at www.arshtcenter.org.    

Vodka Latke  

The Tribe’s highly anticipated 8th annual Hanukkah Soiree takes place on Thursday, December 19 at LMNT in Wynwood (55 NW 36th Street).  There’s an open bar sponsored by Ketel One and complimentary Perrier, endless latkes, sounds by DJ Crespo, Capture POD and more surprises. The party goes from 8-11 pm. To purchase tickets, or for more information visit:   .  To join the committee or to sponsor: Olivia@ooandco.com. 

The Little Lighthouse Foundation’s Toy Drive 

LLF’s Holiday Toy Drive collects toys for over 140 children from the Chapman Partnership, donating over 400 total toys. Volunteers participate in a morning shopping spree at Target to supplement the toys already collected at drop off locations like Warren Tricomi on Miami Beach, the offices of Luxury Brand Partners, and The Firm Miami.Toys are distributed at the Chapman Partnership on Saturday, December 21st, from 4-5 pm, after a Story Hour program from 3-4 pm. Register to volunteer at the toy shopping spree, Story Hour, or distribution, by emailing volunteer@thelittlelighthouse.org.  

Healing Light Grant 

LLF also create the Healing Light Grant this holiday season, awarding one lucky child in South Florida with supplemental funds to subsidize existing and future medical bills or future procedures. LLF commits to donating $20,000 to the Healing Light recipient during the holiday season every year, through matching dollar for dollar, the donations of its strong support group. LLF has selected Ellie suffers from Crouzons Syndrome as its Healing Light Grant recipient with a goal of providing $20,000 to cover her current and future medical expenses. The Little Lighthouse is reaching out to its strong support system and has pledged to match donations, dollar for dollar, until that goal is reached. Follow the link here to support Ellie’s Healing Light Fund:  http://www.thelittlelighthouse.org/volunteer-with-us/healing-light-grant/.

Nautical Nights 

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is now Nautical Nights, a new seafaring feast at The DiLido Beach Club, for a Hamptons-meets-South Beach dining experience with an unlimited seafood menu for $59 on Saturdays from 6-10 pm,  $45 for unlimited Veuve Clicquot.  The beachside restaurant features al fresco seating and fresh from the sea delicacies.   Opulent local seafood creations by Chef De Cuisine Andres Meraz include a “wrecked” raw bar, 40 pound roasted grouper and seafood bake for $59 per guest.  For Nautical Nights reservations call 786.276.4000. 

Food is like Art at POC 

Port of Call Restaurant Group has raised the bar with the debut of POC Modern American Cuisine. Situated in the Village at Gulfstream Park, the newly opened eatery is open daily and artistically blends culinary traditions from Asia and Europe with modern American influences. Dishes are handcrafted to create a cuisine that redefines fusion and presents a true evolution of flavor using the freshest ingredients, preserving a natural balance of aroma, texture and taste.  

POC Restaurant Group has rolled out its weekend brunch where you can enjoy a $21 prix fixe menu including savory dishes such as Eggs Benedict topped with Sriracha Hollandaise and the choice of short rib, spinach or salmon gravlax, Belgian waffles or Braised Pork Belly with twice-cooked chicken eggs and truffled potatoes. Specialty cocktails such as Sparkling Passion, fresh passion fruit purée with prosecco, or Bloody Maria, 1800 Silver, homemade bloody mary mix, fresh lime and lemon juice with a salt and pepper rim, will be offered to complement the brunch menu for $12 each. Brunch will be available on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Dinner service will start at 5 p.m. and continue until 11 p.m. on Saturday and 10 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.pocrestaurants.com. 

Life In Color is Back at Sun Life Stadium 

Life In Color is back and BIGGER than before, debuting Miami’s first ever Life in Color Festival on Saturday, December 27 at the Sun Life Stadium. Calvin Harris, acclaimed Scottish EDM Master, was the first headliner to be revealed exclusively on the companies Facebook page. Deemed the “World’s wealthiest DJ”, Calvin has collaborated with top songstresses such as Rihanna and Kylie Minogue, scoring him nine top-ten singles from one studio album. Along with Calvin Harris, Life in Color fans will go hard in the paint with: Chuckie, Head Hunterz, Excision, R3hab, Steve Aoki, Major Lazer, Dirthy Phonics, David Solano, Brass Knuckles, Etc!Etc!, Heroes & Villains, Xkore, and 2 Chainz.  Life in Color’s Miami Festival will be one of the top music events in the country, and will promise fans an interactive experience like no other. With over 500 sold out shows worldwide, LIFE IN COLOR transports fans into the ultimate mind blowing, head bumping, and heart pumping experience.Tickets are on sale at www.lifeincolor.com;Headliners & Show info available on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/lictour.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Bobby’s Burger Palace Opens in Dadeland Mall 

Chef and restaurateur Bobby Flay brings his passion for burgers, fries, and shakes to Miami with the opening of Bobby’s Burger Palace (BBP), his very first restaurant in the “Sunshine state.” Located in Miami’s Dadeland Mall, Bobby’s Burger Palace is anchored on the second floor of the mall’s highly-anticipated redeveloped two-story wing. BBP Miami is also the very first store, among the impressive list of 22 retailers and restaurants, to open in the new wing. BBP Miami offers an assortment of burgers inspired by Bobby’s extensive travels throughout America, including Miami. One of BBP’s signature burgers is the Cuban sandwich-inspired Miami Burger, which is pressed with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard and mayonnaise. Visit www.bobbysburgerpalace.com or call 305.667.4617 for further details. 

PAMM Kicks Off Free Second Saturday Presented By Target 

Visitors of all ages are invited to Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) to kick off the museum’s free, monthly program featuring a day of art-making, family-friendly gallery tours, performances and more! This month, celebrate Miami’s new cultural port, by building personalized model boats inspired by PAMM’s bay front location and artist Hew Locke’s installation of suspended sea vessels, which hang from the ceiling at the museum’s entrance. Get pumped up with “First Beat,” a special drum performance taking place throughout the museum. Each hour, on the hour, 12 female drummers (from Miami and New York City) will fill PAMM with beats that were intended to be performed exclusively by men, but were re-written to be performed by everyone! Visitors will be invited to create their own percussion instruments and join in the fun! The commissioned performance is composed by Mindy Abovitz, founder and publisher of Tom Tom Magazine, the only publication dedicated to female drummers. Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10am – 6pm, and Thursday evenings 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. For more information, visit pamm.org or call 305.375.3000. 

Nikki Beach Miami Spanish Sundown Dinner 

Nikki Beach Miami is bringing a bit of Ibiza, Mallorca and Marbella to Miami Beach every Saturday night with their new Spanish Sundown Dinner series. Featuring flamenco shows, weekly food & cocktail specials and a live Paella station, Nikki Beach Miami is the perfect spot to dine before a night out on the town! Open every Saturday, 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Reservations.miami@nikkibeach.com | 305. 538.1111; for menu and more information: http://www.nikkibeachmiami.com/saturday-dinner/. 

Spa at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne 

Join the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne for a cocktail event celebrating the recent renovations of the Spa at the Ritz! They’ve got surprises galore, but to give you a hint, mermaids will be involved. It’s all happening from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 12 at the Ritz Carlton KeyBiscayne.

RSVP to Clayton.McRory@ritzcarlton.com<mailto:Clayton.McRory@ritzcarlton.com> to secure your spot! 

MIAMI Magazine and Sony Host a Toy Drive  

MIAMI Magazine partners with Sony in the Aventura Mall for a Holiday Toy Drive benefitting the Boys & Girls Club. On Saturday, December 14 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. the Sony store in Aventura will be collecting unwrapped toys and will be giving a $25 or $50 gift certificate towards merchandise in the store. Raffles will be held throughout the event.  RSVP to rsvpmiami@modernluxury.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat and Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Art Basel Miami

Art Basel will take over South Florida from December 5 through 8 for its 12^th season. Ranked as one of the most influential art events in the world, this year’s five day run will feature close to 300 leading galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa and will showcase works by more than 2,000 artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.  In addition to the actual show at the Miami Beach Convention Center, art museums throughout South Florida, satellite art fairs, and events for and by curators provide the perfect forum for experiencing art and design.

For more information, visit:  https://www.artbasel.com/en/miami-beach.

Design Miami

On December 4 through December 8, Design Miami will be showcasing 37 galleries in Miami Beach, Meridian Avenue & 19th Street. Each year, the fair brings together the most influential crowds from around the world in celebration of design culture and commerce. For more information, visit www.designmiami.com.

SCOPE Miami Beach

SCOPE Miami Beach will feature a wide range of curated projects, sponsor programs and Platinum VIP tours as well as 100 International Exhibitors and 15 Breeder Program galleries. SCOPE Miami Beach opens on Monday, December 2, with its exclusive Platinum VIP Gala, continuing Tuesday, December 3, to welcome VIPs and Press at its First View benefit, and will open to the general public from December 4 – 8.  For the second year in a row, SCOPE, the preeminent launching pad for emerging contemporary art, continues its collaboration with VH1, which through its own “You Oughta Know” initiative has helped launch some of music’s hottest artists. This year, SCOPE and VH1 are teaming up to host ART + MUSIC + BEACH to celebrate the convergence of the music and art worlds in a series of curatorial on-air, online and on-site collaborations at SCOPE’s new location in the heart of South Beach, Miami. The VH1 Indoor Lounge within the SCOPE pavilion will expose SCOPE Miami Beach attendees to a series of activations designed to celebrate the crossover between art and music, and will be open to all for the duration of the event from December 3-8, 2013.

Red Bull Curates: The Canvas Cooler Project

Ten of the nation¹s top emerging contemporary artists are headed to SCOPE to showcase their work in a group show after being chosen as winners in a nationwide series of competitive gallery showcases. Red Bull Curates: The Canvas Cooler Project paired emerging artists in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, New York and Atlanta with local venue owners to create custom and functional pieces of art which are now on permanent display in some of the hottest bars, lounges and restaurants in each city. Artists were handpicked and given a one-day challenge to transform a blank canvas-wrapped Red Bull cooler into an inspired work of art. The show is located at 1000 Ocean Drive in Miami Beach.

For additional information, visit www.redbull.com/curates. The show will be open from December 4 – 8 from 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Miami Independent Thinkers at SCOPE

Sara Read, Heather Read, Laraine Hart and Kerry McLaney (305 Creative Group) present Miami’s Independent Thinkers ART BASEL 2013, a collaborative multimedia art exhibition showcasing Miami’s premiere, emerging and young artists. To be held at SCOPE Miami Beach BOOTH K 01 (1000 Ocean Drive Miami Beach), its new location on the sands of Miami Beach. The 7-day fair aims to feature local artists working across a range of media – painters, photographers, filmmakers, sculptors, animators, writers, musicians, muralists, performance and new media artists. The fair will run from December 2nd-8^th during Art Basel. For the complete schedule, tickets and hours, visit:  www.miamithinkers.com or http://scope-art.com/shows/miami-beach-2013/visitor-info/.

Pulse

PULSE Contemporary Art Fair is the leading US art fair dedicated solely to contemporary art. Through its annual editions in Miami and New York, PULSE provides a unique platform for diverse galleries to present a progressive blend of renowned and pioneering contemporary artists, alongside an evolving series of original programming. The fair’s distinctive commitment to the art community and visitor experience makes PULSE unique among art fairs and creates an art market experience that is both dynamic and inviting.The Fair is divided into two sections and is comprised of a mix of established and emerging galleries vetted by a committee of prominent international dealers. The IMPULSE section presents galleries invited by the Committee to present solo project booths exhibiting emerging work created in the past two years.  One artist featured in the IMPULSE section is awarded the PULSE Prize, which is a cash grant given to the winner artist to help further his career.In addition, PULSE develops original cultural programming with a series of large-scale installations, its PULSE Play> video lounge, and the PULSE Performance events. PULSE supports numerous nonprofit art organizations and schools.  This year’s fair runs from December 5-8 and takes place at the Ice Palace Studios:  1400 North Miami Avenue.  For more information, visit:  www.pulse-art.com.

Red Dot

Red Dot Miami will host an opening reception on December 3, offer a unique selection of approximately 60 galleries exhibiting painting, sculpture, photography and fine-art objects.  Proceeds from the event will benefit Million Trees Miami.  Million Trees Miami Campaign is a Community-wide effort to plant 1 million trees by 2020 in order to achieve a 30% tree canopy cover for Miami-Dade County. Million Trees Miami has partnered with the Miami-Dade Parks Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aims to preserve parks and green space. Red Dot is proud to support such a great cause. Red Dot takes place in Midtown Miami, 3011 NE 1st Avenue at NE 31st Street, from December 3-8.  For more information, visit:  www.reddotfair.com or call 917.273.8621.

Art Miami

On December 3 Art Miami kicks off the opening day of Art Week with the highly anticipated Opening Night VIP Preview.  World-famous for its stylish gallery-like decor, its outstanding quality and extraordinary variety, Art Miami showcases the best in modern and contemporary art from 125 international art galleries.

CONTEXT

CONTEXT, the sister fair to Art Miami, is committed to the development and reinforcement of emerging and mid-career artists. The 70 international galleries vetted by the CONTEXT Selection Committee will exhibit highlights from their gallery programs, solo artist exhibitions and/or curated projects. Now in its second year, the fair will take place in a standalone 45,000-square-foot pavilion directly adjacent to the Art Miami Pavilion joined by an outdoor café, lounge and curated outdoor art exhibition.

A network of complimentary shuttle buses will run round-trip service between Art Miami, CONTEXT, Aqua Art Miami and Art Basel Miami Beach.  For more information visit:  www.art-miami.com/.

ELLE DECOR Modern Life Concept House

ELLE DECOR presents the acclaimed ELLE DECOR Modern Life Concept House. The magazine will pair top designers, selected by its editorial team, with prominent lifestyle brands to transform an expansive tropical-modern, waterfront estate on Miami Beach’s exclusive Sunset Island II. The ELLE DECOR Modern Life Concept House will be open to the public while also serving as a venue for a series of private events. Proceeds from the show house will benefit Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine. For location and ticketing information, please visit ElleDecor.com/MLCH.

ShopBAZAAR

The ShopBAZAAR.com boutique by Harper’s BAZAAR will take over the Soho Beach House library and private dining room, transforming them into a chic, editorially-inspired salon space offering luxury fashion and beauty experiences. With personalized shopping consultations with BAZAAR editors and fashion and accessories from ShopBAZAAR.com retail partner Curve Boutique, the store will feature brands including Acne*, Proenza Schouler, and Dion Lee. Special pieces from John Hardy, MCM, MICHELE Watches, and Swarovski will also be available, and French fashion brand Sandro will debut select pieces from their Spring 2014 collection in advance of their first freestanding Florida boutique openings at Aventura Mall in Miami and on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. The ShopBAZAAR.com boutique will also include exclusive offerings from jewelry designer Jennifer Fisher with proceeds benefiting Free Arts NYC, a nonprofit organization that provides underserved children and families with a unique combination of educational arts and mentoring programs. Guests will be invited to rejuvenate themselves with evian® in Limited Edition bottles by ELIE SAAB and Gevalia Coffee.  The ShopBAZAAR.com boutique will be open to the public on Tuesday, December 3, through Thursday December 5. For open hours or to  RSVP contact thestyle@harpersbazaar.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Celebrate Thanksgiving with the Café Prima Pasta Family 

On Thanksgiving Day, guests can pull up a seat for a savory, oven-roasted turkey dinner with choice of Argentinean and Italian infused sides, homemade dessert and free flowing champagne for $24.95 at Café Prima Pasta. Patrons who want to forgo a tummy full of turkey can enjoy homemade Italian dishes such as Carpaccio di Manzo ($12.95), Garganelli Lamb Ragu ($16.95), Branzino Livornese ($23.95) and Veal Parmigiano ($19.95).  For reservations for parties of six or more, call 305.867.0106 or visit www.cafeprimapasta.com. 

“Movember” Takes Over American Social for the Mustachio Bashio 

No need to hold the handlebars, serious stubble is in fashion for fall. American Social on Las Olas Boulevard  is encouraging patrons to turn their backs on the blade in honor of Movember, an annual crusade to raise money and awareness for men’s health issues including prostate and testicular cancers and mental health. Starting this week  “MoBros” and “Bearded Broads” can enjoy a specialty Movember cocktail menu inspired by celebrity stashes (think: “Anchorman” hero Ron Burgundy, Tom Selleck, Jeff Foxworthy etc…).  Twenty percent of proceeds from the mustache men inspired cocktails sold during the month of November will benefit the Movember Foundation. Sip on the Ron Burgundy ($14), Crown Royal, fresh lime juice, muddled mint leaves, black berries and simple syrup; Hulk Hogan ($12), Grey Goose La Poire, St. Germain, simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, cucumber and a splash of club soda or the Charlie Chaplin ($13), a combination of Kettle One, olive juice and bleu cheese stuffed olives.

Fellow followers of the follicle fanfare can post their photos to American Social’s Facebook using the hashtag #amsomovember for a photo contest. The stylish ‘stache with the most “likes” each week will receive a $100 American Social gift card and entry into a grand prize drawing for a complimentary bottle and private, reserved booth for up to eight people. “Shave” the date for the culminating Mustachio Bashio from 7:00 to 9 p.m. on December 5th where “hairy hell raisers” will enjoy complimentary cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, festive souvenir photo opportunities, mustache contests, prizes and the grand prize drawing. 

Billionaire Italian Couture Opens During Art Basel 

Billionaire Italian Couture, the global fashion brand known for its couture-like details, will celebrate its first East Coast flagship with an opening party during Art Basel on Tuesday, December 3, at 4000 NE 2nd Avenue in the Miami Design District. Hosted by Billionaire founder Flavio Briatore, the celebration will take place from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and will feature a live set from fashion’s DJ darling DJ So Super Sam. The invitation-only party will also give guests the first chance to see Billionaire’s stunning transformation of Miami’s historic Buena Vista Post Office building; For more information contact:  billionaire@taraink.com. 

Wallpaper* Handmade 

Wallpaper* Handmade, the groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to the marriage of craftsmanship and design, will make its U.S. debut during Art Basel / Design Miami with several newly commissioned design pieces in collaboration with renowned British car manufacturer Jaguar. Running from December 4 – 8, the exhibition will be held in the iconic building that welcomes visitors to Miami’s Design District at 3841 NE 2^nd Avenue. A special VIP opening preview followed by a grand opening celebration will take place the evening of Thursday, December 5. Expecting top-name designers, architects, fashion icons, and the ultimate design influencers, guests will sip on Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut, enjoy light bites and sounds from a renowned DJ as they tour the exhibition.

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.