By: Maryanne Salvat

renew the spa at The James Royal Palm Presents Wellness Weekend

This weekend September 20 -22, renew the spa at The James Royal Palm is pleased to offer a special Wellness Weekend curated by esteemed nutritionist and wellness expert Dr. Oz Garcia, whose health-focused anti-aging treatments have earned a celebrity clientele consisting of Fortune 100 CEOs and A-listers like Heidi Klum, Gwyneth Paltrow, Karolina Kurkova, Hilary Swank, Kim Cattrall, Winona Ryder, Veronica Webb and Naomi Campbell. Learn how to restore your inner energy and optimize your health through personal access to one of the country’s most sought-after wellness experts. Wellness Weekend events with Dr. Oz Garcia include: VIP Cocktail Reception on the private oceanfront terrace, including clean living-inspired gourmet bites and photo ops.  7-9pm FRI Sept 20.  “A Healthier, Happier YOU” Interactive Session on the shaded Yoga Deck 10:00 to11:00 a.m., Saturday,  September 21.  Poolside “Juicing for Health and Beauty” session in which Dr. Oz Garcia and Dr. Maritza Paz will walk guests through the art of juicing, sharing health and beauty benefits, and providing simple home juicing recipes 1:00 to1:30 p.m. Saturday, September 21.  One-on-One Consultation to personalize a customized health and wellness program. Noon to 6:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (21^st and 22^nd). Wellbeing Treatments at renew the spa are Noon to 6:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday September 22.The Relaxing Beach Yoga, followed by a Stress Solutions session with Dr. Oz Garcia is 10:00 to 11:30a.m. Sunday September 22.     Packages and pricing for All-Access to the Wellness Weekend is $299 per person, includes access to VIP Cocktail Reception; all classes, tastings and seminars; choice of one wellness treatment; a wellness gift bag; complimentary valet parking; and access to the James Royal Palm Pool and Beach .  You can also Customized your Wellness Weekend pricing includes “Juicing for Health and Beauty” for $50; “A Healthier, Happier YOU” for $10; “Stress Solutions and Beach Yoga” for $100; and One-on-One Consultation for $450.   To book your spot go to:   www.jameshotels.com/miami/special-offers/miami-specials/exclusive-wellness-weekend-1.7891 or call 305-604-5700 at ask for renew the spa.

BLT Steak at the Betsy Supports Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry^®

More than 16 million American children face hunger. This month, BLT Steak at the Betsy is delighted to join thousands of restaurants nationwide to support Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry^® campaign, from Sunday, September 15 through Saturday, September 21, the acclaimed modern steakhouse from celebrity chef Laurent Tourondel will donate 50 percent of all sales of a dish especially created for the occasion, Carpaccio Salad with Parmesan and a Truffle Vinaigrette.  The salad will be available at lunch or dinner for $17.00.  Recipe available on request; for reservations please contact 305.673.0044.

Duffy’s Sports Grill Opens in Coconut Grove 

On Friday, September 20, Duffy’s Sports Grill will officially open its doors to the public in Coconut Grove! To kick off its grand opening, Duffy’s is hosting a two-week long celebration with the help of morning radio personalities Kevin Rolston, Virginia Sinicki and Jason Pennington from The Coast 97.3’s KVJ Show. For more information about the grand opening of Duffy’s Coconut Grove, please visit: https://www.duffysmvp.com/coconutgrove.

Smith & Wollensky Celebrates National Wine Week 

Smith & Wollensky is celebrating National Wine Week from September 16-20 with Proceeds Benefiting Keep Memory Alive and Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.  Sample 10 international and domestic wines during the 53rd National Wine Week for $20 while enjoying the best views on South Beach. As part of the restaurant’s “Catch an Early Flight” promotion, each day a different theme will focus around the wines poured during lunch from Wine Week partners Ferrari-Carano, Gérard Bertrand, Jordan, Vibrant Rioja Spain and Wines of South Africa. For more information about the 53rd National Wine Week, visit: www.smithandwollensky.com/liquid-assets. 

Maxim Magazine Hotties!!!   

On Saturday September 21 from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Maxim Magazine, Hyde Beach, Blackberry and GARNIER FRUCTIS STYLE, along with Miami’s own former Hometown Hottie and TV personality, Lisa Morales will be hosting an evening party, like only Maxim could do, to unveil the 10 national finalists for this annual competition.   RSVP at   rsvp@Maxim.com  (mention Miami Hometown hotties to be added to the list!)

Serafina’s Italian Harvest Celebration 

Serafina Dream South Beach kicks off the Italian Harvest Season with a dedicated dinner honoring the region of Tuscany on Friday, September 20. Experience an authentic culinary journey through the region with a four-course dinner menu and Antinori wine pairings priced at $50 per person. Chef Marco Zuccala has perfectly paired his Northern Italian cuisine with Antinori Wines presented by representative Salvatore Gaeta. Menu highlights include: Caciucco Livornese, Tuscan version of bouillabaisse soup with seven varieties of shellfish, tomato broth and herbed crostini bread; Petto d’Anatra con Marmellata e Scarola, pan-roasted “Black Pig Farm” duck breast with apricot jam and herbs, served with escarole and walnuts and Serafina’s signature Il Tiramisu, prepared like Grandma used to make…maybe even better. Serafina will continue to celebrate the Italian Harvest Season with dedicated menus through October 10 featuring the regions of Piemonte and Umbria.  To make a reservation, contact:  Tommaso Galdi at tgaldi@dreamsouthbeach.com or 305.534.8455. 

Fashionably Conscious Presented by Village of Merrick Park

Village of Merrick Park brings Fashionably Conscious back for the second year at the mall. The 3-day sale event will take place on the ground floor next to Lacoste,September 20-22, attracting hundreds of bargain-hunting fashionistas searching for vintage designer items. In it’s sixth year, Fashionably Conscious has set the highest fundraising goal to date of $100,000 after raising an outstanding amount of $85,000 in 2012. Miami’s most-coveted fashion fundraiser benefits Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard Community Center and provides free vital services including after-school and summer programming to children and families in the West Grove Community. The designer sale offers discounted pricing on donated designer items by Chanel, YSL, Gucci, Diane von Furstenberg, Prada and others from the closets of Miami’s most respected philanthropists and community leaders including Raysa Fanjul, Lourdes Jofré-Collett, Rima Otrakji, Ali Codina and many more.

Devon Seafood + Steak

Residents if South Miami and Kendall no longer need to travel to the Gables or South Beach for a top- notch steak experience. Devon Seafood + Steak, a boutique seafood & steakhouse opened its first South Florida location in Kendall. Here, diners will find prime steaks and fresh ocean fare, served in a casually stylish setting. At the helm of Devon’s kitchen will be executive chef Scott Barrow, who has been serving loyal guests at Devon Seafood + Steak in Chicago, IL for the past 12 years. With its mouthwatering menu, impressive wine list, great cocktails, Devon Seafood + Steak is perfectly positioned to become the area’s hot new dining and lounge destination.  Devon Seafood + Steak is located inside The Palms at Town & Country Mall, in Kendall.  Abundant free parking is available. Reservations can be made online at: www.devonseafood.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat

The 19^th Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Kick-Off Cocktail

InterContinental Miami will host a kickoff celebration in honor of the upcoming 19th Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball benefiting Make-A-Wish Southern Florida on Thursday, September 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Held each year at the downtown icon and attended by more than 250 of South Florida’s leading philanthropists, the exclusive preview event will celebrate the annual Ball, to be held on Saturday, November 2; Invitation Only. To RSVP or for more information contact

Matt@taraink.com.

Sardelli Italian Steakhouse and Solerno Blood Orange Liquor Host a Four Course Paired Cocktail Dinner

Monday, September 16, Solerno Blood Orange Liquor and Sardelli Italian Steakhouse in Hollywood, FL is hosting a 4 course paired cocktail and dinner party with Jackie Patterson, the amazing Brand Ambassador for Solerno.  Creative cocktails and a 4 course dinner all for just $55! RSVP is required to take advantage of this special night.  Seating is limited, so please RSVP soon to  Lauren.Sanchez@momentumww.com.  Cocktail reception starts at 6pm and dinner at 7:30pm.  

Island Bistro Coffee Bar

In gearing up for The Island Bistro’s official launch in November, the french-inspired restaurant in Brickell Key is first celebrating the addition of its coffee bar with take-out service featuring South Florida’s finest, Panther Coffee. Locals are invited early to preview the space and sample complimentary mini coffee and pastries through Friday, September 13 between 7:00 and 11:00 p.m. The coffee bar will officially open for business on Friday, September 13.

The 100K Ultimate Guys Golf Package at Turnberry Isle

Turnberry Isle Miami, the legendary South Florida retreat, is launching the Ultimate Guys Golf Weekend aka “the $100K Package.” Available for a group of 20 guys, the all-inclusive package breaks down to $5,000 per person. It includes a variety of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and experiences including professionally fitted Scotty Cameron Putters, and customized MyJoys Golf Shoes, with VIP treatments and daily rounds of golf to just name a few.  For more information on this exclusive package visit: http://www.turnberryislemiami.com/ultimate-guys-golf-weekend-package-,specialsPackages_viewItem_61-en.html.

The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar

On Thursday, September 19, executive chef Miguel Aguilar of Wynwood Kitchen & Bar,and Mandy Baca, the author of The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine, will give diners a glimpse back into Miami’s humble culinary scene with a collaborative six-course dinner beginning in the 1940’s and progressing to the 1980’s and beyond. History buffs and food aficionados will enjoy a pre-fixe menu for $70 per person (excluding tax and gratuity), with each course relating to a specific and influential time period. As part of the experience, guests will receive a complimentary welcome cocktail, the Nat Gubbins sangria, a lost cocktail originally served at The Biltmore Hotel, as well as a copy of The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine. A cocktail reception will be held at 7 p.m.; dinner will begin at 7:30 p.m.  Seating is limited, reservations are highly recommended. As part of the experience, guests will receive a complimentary welcome cocktail, the Nat Gubbins sangria, a lost cocktail originally served at The Biltmore Hotel, as well as a copy of The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine. A cocktail reception will be held at 7 p.m.; dinner will begin at 7:30 p.m.  Seating is limited, reservations are highly recommended. Reservations for the Sizzling History of Miami dinner can be made by calling 305.722.8959.

The Salon at GBS Offers $5 Blow-Outs

Five dollars doesn’t buy much these days, but during an exclusive four-day event at The Salon at GBS Coral Gables, five dollars will get you shiny, beautiful hair. Whether before an important meeting or a night on the town, from Wednesday, September 18 through Saturday, September 21, on-the-go glam girls can enjoy professional blowouts by expert stylist Cristina Coego-Ruiz for a flat rate of only $5 (value: $35+). Catering to the women who want salon-perfect hair without the hassle of doing it themselves, Cristina’s sought-after blowouts create bouncy or sleek styles.With years of experience as an in-demand stylist among local celebrities and TV personalities, Cristina specializes in cut and color artistry, extensions, styling and blowouts, the DevaCurl system and keratin treatments. Space is limited so call 305.443.6246 to schedule an appointment.

The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America

Join the The James Beard Foundation’s Taste America®: “Local Flavor from Coast To Coast,” a national traveling food festival that will visit Miami on Friday, September 20 and Saturday, September 21. The five weekend festival will visit 10 cities from September 20 through October 19. Taste America will showcase culinary all-stars and public events exploring the nation’s unique range of local cuisines in Miami, along with nine other cities including Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. Taste America is presented by the James Beard Foundation (JBF) in partnership with Chase Sapphire Preferred® Visa Signature®. Tickets for the public are available at http://www.jbftasteamerica.org/tickets.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Julien Farel Salon & Spa’s Up-Do Bar 

French-inspired, chic salon, Julien Farel Salon & Spa introduces the first Up-Do bar in Miami with a launch party on Thursday, August 29, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Enjoy complimentary Up-Do styles, hors d’œuvre, wine and cocktails courtesy of Oceannaire, Dolores but you can call me Lolita, Wine Depot 555, Atelier Monnier and Blue Martini.  After its launch on August 29, the up-do bar will be available from September 1st with prices starting at $25.  

Fashion + Beauty Fix

On Thursday, August 29, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Identity Media presents Fashion + Beauty Fix and Hoxton Urban Beach House Ladies Night hosted by Andrea Chediak, fashion correspondent. Chediak will share her secrets of the industry while guests enjoy an evening of fashion tips and tricks, cocktails provided by Little Black Dress Vodka, manicures by celebrity manicurist Ingrid Burke, make up makeovers by Melanie Rodriguez, and music performances  by Problem Kids. To RSVP visit: http://fashionandbeautyfix829-es2.eventbrite.com/?rank=1 or via email at rsvp@identitymediaco.com.

Dishcrawl in Miami Beach 

Dishcrawl, a national start-up founded on the premise that communities can be brought together through good food and good company, is exploring Miami Beach with a taco-themed event on September 3. Food lovers are taken on a gourmet Dishcrawl to four distinctive restaurants in one night similar to a pub crawl—but more delicious!  After several successful events in neighborhoods like Brickell, Midtown and Coconut Grove, Dishcrawl is checking out the Miami Beach dining scene. Dishcrawl’s mission is to give folks a reason to go out and socially engage with each other while helping local restaurants gain exposure. Participating restaurants are kept secret until two days before the event, at which time the first location is revealed to ticket holders. Reservations can be made at dishcrawl.com/miami.For more information about Miami’s upcoming Dishcrawl events visit www.dishcrawl.com/miami, or check out their Facebook or follow @Dishcrawlmiami.

 Juntos 

Juntos, a fashion startup based in Miami, has launched with the goal of educating Ecuadorian children, one shoe at a time. The brand, which reimagines the traditional Ecuadorian el Zapato de Lona, or Canvas Shoe, offers the style-savvy a chance to do good by donating a school supply-filled backpack to an at-risk  child in Ecuador for every pair purchased. The shoes are available in black, white and powder blue, and retail for $48.00 a pair.  The brainchild of Mauricio Laniado and Andrew Tupper, Juntos was sparked by a trip to Ecuador and Laniado’s observations about the social stigmas surrounding the working class.  To view and take part in Juntos’ Indiegogo campaign, visit www.FirstStepJuntos.com.  A digital look book featuring the many styles of the Zapato de Lona is available atwww.JuntosProject.com/lb. 

Mercadito Summer Menu and Taco Tuesdays

Favorite Mexican Cantina, Mercadito invites diners to try the summer menu, and to get their fill of tasty tacos with the Taco Tuesday celebration.  Starting at 4:00 p.m., guests can receive two tacos for only $5.50, with their choice from an array of tasty combinations including estilo baja (crispy beer-battered mahi mahi, chipotle aioli, Mexican-style coleslaw), carne (rosemary-marinated skirt steak, potato-poblano rajas, avocado-tomatillo crema, crispy manchego), pastor (chile ancho rubbed pork, chile de árbol salsa, grilled pineapple) and more.  This month, Mercadito Midtown’s Tacos for Strength tacos offer some Cuban flavor, courtesy of Entertainment & Hospitality Strategist Tony Guerra’s–Picadillo Rojo taco– that features red bean paste, Cuban-style Picadillo ground beef, criollo sauce, jalapeños, sweet plantains and a Chicharrón topping for crunch.  The cost of August’s featured taco is $16.50 for an order of four tacos. Five percent of sales generated from Tony Guerra’s taco will be donated to Share Our Strength, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger by 2015. September’s Tacos for Strength featured participant will be Tressa Eaton, Editor of Tasting Table New York.   For more information about the summer dinner menu and all of Mercadito’s specials, visit:  http://www.mercaditorestaurants.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Late Night Dinner at Khong River House 

On Thursday, August 22, Khong River House continues its monthly guest chef series with a dinner featuring Chef Vishwesh Bhatt of Snackbar, Oxford, Mississippi.  Tickets are $75 per person; reservations are still available through their website: http://www.khongriver.com/category/news/ or by calling 305.763.8147. 

Dinner is set at 10:00 p.m. and is sure to be among the most authentic culinary experiences. 

Patpong Road Opens 

“Patpong Road” opens on Friday, August 23, above Khong River House, bringing Thailand’s Red Light District to Miami Beach. Inspired by the night market, the “Bangkok Chic” bar will act as a weekend party destination for locals, offering Thai-influenced snacks, approachable cocktails served out of plastic bags in authentic Thai fashion, and a mix of 90’s hip-hop music curated by DJ Jessica Who, who has built a for her high intensity sets, with regular appearances in Miami, Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and beyond.

The bar is open on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., beginning Friday, August 23; For more information, follow PatPong Road on Twitter @Patpongroad.   

Celebrity Chef Jouvens Jean Launches a Hip New Menu at Pierre’s Morada Bay 

Adored since 1999 by travelers driving south for a relaxing stay in the Florida Keys, Pierre’s at Morada Bay is the iconic landmark restaurant and lounge situated on an enchanting two acre, sandy palm tree-lined  bay-side property in the heart of Islamorada. Known for its spectacular sunset views and for being one of the only high-end restaurants in the upper-keys, Pierre’s at Morada Bay has become the go-to venue for stunning weddings and special events. Now, on the heels of their 15^th anniversary, they have brought in recently appointed Executive Chef Jouvens Jean (St. Regis Bal Harbor, Sawa, W South Beach, The Conrad Brikell, Baleen Coconut Grove) to re-create the menu to be a hipper, fresher take on a Florida Keys classic. Winner of Food Network’s Chef Wanted, Jean’s exciting new line-up honors the menu of French fusion with global influence that put Pierre’s on the map, while incorporating a modern Caribbean flare that lends way to an updated, refined and sexier collection of dishes. For more information visit: www.moradabay.com.

Fish Fish Restaurant Bar & Seafood Market Opens in Miami 

Miami’s newest neighborhood fish restaurant, Fish Fish Restaurant Bar & Seafood Market, is the creation of owners Melvyn and Rebecca Franks.  The experience starts as guests enter into an enchanting nautical backdrop featuring an attention grabbing retail Seafood Market showcasing fresh fish reverently displayed on ice.  Here, seafood can be purchased, to take home or prepared for dine-in with the adventurous types having an option to engage in a “you-pick-it, we-make-it” menu selection created by Melvyn Franks.Seafood selections are based on availability, but frequently showcase silvery hogfish, yellowtail snapper, gray-blue branzini, and organic Scottish salmon. At times, you may find the zebra-striped lionfish, which are the controversial reef-dwelling invasive species that is threatening our coastal biodiversity.  Part of the restaurant’s uniqueness highlights the ocean’s “best-in-show” products that are regularly flown in fresh. These may include Maine lobsters, Canadian oysters and English Dover sole. The guest’s experience may begin with the opportunity to create a build-it-yourself platter highlighting choices of cold water oysters, clams and peel-and-eat shrimp. Pick your own live seasonal lobsters, which are available at market price and range from two to nine pounds.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Dave & Buster’s “Summer of Games”

Dave & Buster‘s is doing what no other restaurant chain can do: simultaneously introducing new food, new drinks and new games.  To top it off, they are also giving guests free plays on five of the newest games. Dave & Buster’s will roll out eight new games this summer, including some that are exclusive to the dining and entertainment chain.  The games range from big-screen versions of mobile apps to the next evolution in 3D games. The games include giant-sized versions of well-known mobile games, such as Temple Run and Cut the Rope, redesigned to allow players to win prizes.  In addition, there are fully immersive attractions like Dark Escape 4D and Dream Raiders that transport players to a completely different world. As part of the “Summer of Games” promotion, Dave & Buster’s will give guests free play on five of the newest games when they purchase or re-charge a PowerCard, from now through August 25. The innovative entrée joins mouth-watering new additions such as the delicious Bacon-Wrapped Beef Medallions & Grilled Shrimp and the flavorful Grilled Balsamic Chicken on the menu.The flavored ice cube cocktails join other innovative beverages on the Dave & Buster’s drinks menu, such as the Miami Ice snow cone and a CoronaRita. For more information about Dave & Buster’s “Summer of Games 2013” launch, visit http://www.daveandbusters.com

MINI Night Out

UrbanDaddy and MINI Cooper have partnered to debut national event campaign, MINI Night Out, in four major cities across the country. Guests will have the opportunity to reserve a ride in the brand new MINI Paceman and be taken on a nightlife adventure, curated by the UrbanDaddy editors. Coming to Miami on Friday, August 16^th and Saturday, August 17^th, guests will have the pleasure of receiving luxury concierge services as well as getting to experience some of the most exclusive parties in Miami at Bar Centro at the SLS Hotel, Haven or Wynwood Kichen and Bar! Visit www.MiniNightOut.com for more information.

Togetherness at The Betsy-South Beach

On Wednesday, August 21, photographer Robert Zuckerman, who gained renown for his evocative celebrity portraits as a still photographer on movie sets including, “Pain and Gain”, “Transformers,” “Training Day” and “The Pursuit of Happyness” among others, will premiere a new photography collection entitled Togetherness at The Betsy-South Beach.  The collection looks at generations of people, places, and things imbued with spirit, history, love and life including images of recognizable celebrities (and their loved ones) as well as everyday people in emotionally charged settings. One work features an image of Superintendent of Schools, Alberto Carvalho and his father. Another features Will Smith and his son.  For more information and to RSVP contact artsandculture@thebetsyhotel.com. Images, access to visiting artists, and additional information are available on request.

2^nd Annual Fashion Gives Back Event

 The 2^nd Annual Fashion Gives Back Event will take place next Wednesday, August 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Neiman Marcus in the Village of Merrick Park, Coral Gables.  Please join us for a special evening honoring Miami Children’s Hospital and enjoy the Neiman Marcus Trend Event Fashion Show, premium cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres.  Your suggested minimum donation of $25 will give you a chance to win from a selection of wonderful prizes, including sports memorabilia, vacations, gift certificates and more!

Miami Spice at Red: The Steakhouse 

Executive Chef Peter Vauthy has created themed menus that give guests the chance to enjoy four different Miami Spice menus that rotate weekly at Red: The Steakhouse. A Miami Spice dinner might begin with appetizers ranging from dishes like Wagyu tartar and oysters on a half shell to favorites like mussels diavolo and Brad’s stuffed hot red peppers (a must!) Entree selections include certified Angus Prime Beef filets, prime rib and flash-fried lobster and homemade pasta options. For the finale, the menu features an extensive dessert selection including Red’s signature key lime pie or chocolate cream puffs. Specially priced wine bottles start at $49. Not only will you get exceptional value but variety as well. For reservations call 305.534.3688 or visit redthesteakhouse.com.

Wednesdays at The Flat

For those who prefer to hear the ivories tickled, The Flat is launching an intimate, live music experience every Wednesday featuring local guest musicians curated by renowned South Florida music director Randy Singer.  Nestled in the South of Fifth Street neighborhood, the recently launched Parisian piano lounge has carved a nightlife niche for itself as the quintessential, intimate venue for apéritifs and digestifs compliments of an extensive artisanal cocktail menu served in a sophisticated yet cozy jewel box setting. It’s all about the before experience,” explains owner Cedric Adegnika, a well-known South Beach nightlife fixture. “In Europe, there is the ‘in-between’, a place you want to go before dinner, the club or bed.” Every Wednesday, guest pianists, jazz singers and international singer-songwriters will enliven the everlasting cocktail hour. Future shows Leesa Richards, an up-and-coming solo artist who independently released her debut album, “Mother’s Child”, and continues to tour around the county, Brendan O’Hara (Aug. 21^st) and Big Brooklyn Red (Aug. 28^th). For reservations or bottle service, call, 305.531.3528. For more information, visit www.theflatmiami.com.     

Funky Buddha Hop Gun                      

On Friday, August 23, guests are invited to get “Funky” at the special Beer Dinner with Funky Buddha Hop Gun, taking place at Whole Foods Market – Coral Springs. From 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., foodies and craft beer aficionados alike can get a glass of Funky Buddha Brewery Hop Gun IPA for a one cent – yes, that’s right, only costs a penny – per purchase of any Pub Menu dish. During this night only, the store’s skilled chefs will offer three dinner specials for $10.99 each. This event is free and open to the public. In addition, guests can meet beer experts from the locally-based Funky Buddha Brewery and enjoy live music from musical performer, Warren Hill. 

By: Maryanne Salvat

Cool Off With a Sweet Treat at Gelato-GO

As the summer months in South Florida continue to heat-up, cool off with the most decadent of frozen treats at Gelato-Go. Located in the heart of South Beach, Gelato-Go is the destination for a divine dessert with a healthy twist. With an array of different flavors all created and in-house by Chef Antonio, with the exception of Pistachio that is actually flown in from Italy (and they have a certificate to prove it!), choices are endless and are secretly formulated from healthy ingredients (no preservatives). Gelato-Go menu also includes: Gelato Spaghetti, Sunny Side Up Gelato, Waffle Chocolate Cup, Sicilian Cannolo Gelato, and a Yogurt Gelato Fruit Salad; for more information or delivery visit: http://www.gelatogo.net. 

Miami New Times’ Iron Fork Kicks-Off Miami Spice 2013 

On Thursday August 1, Miami New Times’ Iron Fork and the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau join forces to kick off two months of discounted three-course meals at Miami’s best restaurants during Miami Spice. Hosted at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts on Biscayne Boulevard, in Downtown Miami, the 2013 Iron Fork will draw thousands of diners and food lovers from across Greater Miami. In true Iron Chef Style, two of Miami’s hottest chefs will go head to head or spatula to spatula to compete for the highly coveted Iron Fork Award.  To purchase tickets or for more information visit: www.arshtcenter.org. 

We Love Miami Spice 2013

Now that Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2014 has come to a close, we can all take a breath and break our diets once and for all. Miami Spice the highly anticipated dining experience is upon us again this summer and thankfully with an extension. Set to run from August 1 – September 30, 2013, features close to 200 participating luxury and fine dining restaurants in Greater Miami and the Beaches. Sponsored by MasterCard Priceless Miami, Norwegian Cruise Line, BACARDÍ ®, Stella Artois and Wines of Chile, this year foodies can enter to win savory prizes and make reservations on the newly enhanced Miami Spice website at www.iLoveMiamiSpice.com.  From the opportunity to dine at a Miami Spice participating restaurant with a group of friends,to the chance to win one of eight cruises from PortMiami to the Eastern Caribbean on Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Getaway, there are prizes to please any palate.Food aficionados will marvel at this year’s Miami Spice program, which offers an affordable and convenient way for consumers to experience some of the best dining and nightlife in Miami. Participating restaurants will present discounted three–course lunch and dinner menus featuring a choice of an appetizer, entrée and dessert as part of the fixed price, excluding tax and gratuities. Luxury dining: three course prix-fixe lunches at $23 per person, dinners at $39.  Fine dining: three course prix –fixe lunches at $19 per person, dinners at $33.

  Senses: An Evening of Art and Dining  

In celebration of their 10^th anniversary and in an effort to raise funds for CIFO Family Programming, the Cisneros-Fontanals Art Foundation (CIFO) will host an interactive moving dinner party with Chef Michael B. Jacobs, Friday, August 2, from 7:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m., at the CIFO Art Space in downtown Miami. Dubbed Senses: An Evening of Art and Dining, the event will feature a demonstration of video works from CIFO’s private collection, artfully paired with dishes by The Hidden Kitchen’s chef Michael Jacobs, along with hand-crafted libations from The Corner. Guests will begin their evening with aperitifs in CIFO’s enchanting Piazza before being ushered through the CIFO Art Space to explore a flowing demonstration of the relationship between art, food and drink. Tickets for the moving dinner are priced at $90 per person and can be purchased by calling 305.415.6343 or visiting www.cifo.org. A portion of proceeds will benefit the CIFO Family Programming, which provides affordable in-gallery children’s workshops lead by local artists. The first 20 tickets purchased will be only $75. CIFO is also raffling a pair of tickets through their Facebook and Twitter accounts; like of follow their pages to be in the drawing.

Barbie™ The Dreamhouse Experience™ 

Barbie® doll’s iconic Dreamhouse® has been transform into a real-life attraction for fans of all ages.  Visitors can play in Barbie® doll’s world like never before with this interactive 10,000-square foot experience open to the public at Sawgrass Mills Mall. The first-ever touring life-size Barbie® Dreamhouse® – located in Florida – is a must-see destination for this year’s family vacation. The seven-room, multi-story Dreamhouse® features engaging activities kids will love including Barbie® dolls’s signature pink elevator, her coveted “endless” closet and a walk-through “glitterizer.” Tickets for this one-of-a-kind experience are now on sale at: BarbieDreamhouse.com and Ticketmaster.