Archive for the ‘Don’t Miss’ Category

Salt & Straw Free Scoop in Honor of Winter Solstice

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On December - 19 - 2024

In honor of the Winter Solstice on December 21st, Salt & Straw will be offering a free scoop promotion at all locations. Customers who order a single scoop will get to upgrade to a double for free to celebrate the shortest (and sweetest) day of the year. 

Customers can choose from classic flavors like Double Fold Vanilla, Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, Honey Lavender or choose from the limited-edition Holiday Series. 

Co-founder and head ice cream maker Tyler Malek has turned all of his favorite holiday flavors into five unique ice creams that capture the cheerful, nostalgia and cozy traditions of the holiday season, and are influenced by Grandma Malek’s favorite festive recipes, cookie swaps, and actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s holiday alter-ego “Dwanta.” 

Flavors include: 

  • NEW – The Great Cookie Swap (v) – Crunchy biscoff cookies are blended into a coconut cream ice cream base, and stuffed with quintessential holiday cookies: red-and-green sprinkled sugar cookies, powdered chocolate crinkle cookies, and nutty pecan sandwiches, and swirled with Biscoff cookie butter.
  • Toasted White Chocolate & Peppermint Almonds – This flavor starts with baking white chocolate chips until they’re golden brown to create a rich, caramelized ice cream, folded with crunchy chopped almonds from SkinnyDipped Almonds®, each one double-dipped in delicate layers of dark chocolate and peppermint-infused white chocolate, and swirled with ribbons of minty housemade fudge.
  • Gingerbread Cookie Dough – Straight from Grandma Malek’s kitchen, her beloved gingerbread molasses “Cry Baby” cookies are back again this year. These family favorites are churned into a gooey cookie butter, then layered into a rum-spiked royal icing ice cream. Bits of gingerbread cookie are scattered throughout so that every bite of this comforting treat is packed with the warm, spiced flavors that’ve been part of the Malek family’s holiday festivities for generations.
  • Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache – This sweet and salty flavor is inspired by Grandma Malek’s recipe- studded brittle with candied almonds, slivers of the brittle and decadent chocolate ganache nuggets (creamy, truffle-like delights bursting with salty sweetness) are folded into a classic Double Fold vanilla ice cream. 
  • Dwanta’s Teremana Spiked Eggnog – Inspired by Dwanta—our friend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s holiday alter ego— this flavor brings together tequila and eggnog to spike the rich, silky custard ice cream with notes of oaky vanilla from Teremana’s Reposado. Amontillado sherry gives it backbone, and an unexpected nuttiness that’s perfectly in character, with nutmeg and dark agave to give the flavor a toasty finish. For locations visit: Salt & Straw.

I

Kiwanis’ Every Child Has a Dream Gala

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On December - 12 - 2024

Get ready to Mambo under the Miami moonlight at the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana’s most fun event of the year – the “Every Child Has a Dream” Gala. Don your most comfortable dancing shoes for what’s sure to be a dance marathon- all for a great cause.

The party will take place on Saturday, December 14th at the Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition Center. Get ready to shimmy to the electrifying beats of DJ Alex Gutierrez and DJ Jimmie E., then sing your heart out to chart-topping Cuban crooner Leoni Torres. Keeping the whole night lively will be the ever-charming Martica Lopez, host of the afternoon show on Hits 97.3. The fun starts at 7:00 pm and unlimited cocktails and food will be served.

The real stars of the night are the kids. The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation has been making a difference in the lives of children and young adults for years, providing scholarships, educational programs, summer camps, and more. They’ve impacted hundreds of thousands of kids and awarded over $3 million in college scholarships Now that’s something to celebrate!

A big shout-out to Bacardi, Amerant Bank, Williamson Cadillac, Coca-Cola South Florida, Café La Llave, Gaviña Gourmet Coffee, Homestead Speedway, and all of the sponsors who are helping make this night possible.

Head to https://kiwanisgala.com for tickets. Follow the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana on Facebook (@KiwanisLittleHavana) and Instagram (@KiwanisofLittleHavana) to stay in the loop.

Lala’s Burgers Officially Opens at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co.

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On December - 12 - 2024


Lala’s Burgers, the smash burger sensation from Miami’s iconic Apocalypse BBQ, has officially opened at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co., bringing its viral creations to Miami’s Bird Road Art District and now offering fans the opportunity to enjoy them seven days a week.

Since debuting as a Tuesday-only pop-up at Apocalypse BBQ in Kendall over the summer, Lala’s Burgers has repeatedly drawn an overwhelming response. The team attempted a soft launch for this new phase of the brand at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing earlier this month, hoping for a gradual start to operations for the location, but that proved impossible. News spread quickly across social media, and lines soon formed as eager fans returned for more legendary smash burgers.

Lala’s Burgers debuted with three signature smash burgers, each loaded with flavor:

Lala Smash ($12) – A five-ounce patty with American cheese, grilled onions, “Lala Sauce,” and house-made pickles.

Classic Smash ($12) – A five-ounce patty with American cheese, onions, house pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and the OG sauce.

Maxwell Smash ($16) – A five-ounce patty topped with American cheese, queso frito (fried cheese), chopped pepperoni, and hot honey aioli. This “Burger of the Month” will only be available for November.

For those with a big appetite, burgers can be doubled (for an additional $4). The team recommends rounding out the meal with crispy fries (available for $6) and a classic chocolate chip cookie round—a fan favorite from Apocalypse BBQ (for $3.50).

Owned by Jeff Budnechky and his wife Laura “Lala” Budnechky —after whom the burger concept is named—Apocalypse BBQ in Kendall has become a prized spot in the Miami food scene that draws long lines daily. Known for its coffee-rubbed ribs, juicy brisket, and outstanding burgers, it was only a matter of time before the team brought Lala’s Burgers to a broader audience. Apocalypse BBQ’s signature “Jefe Smash” burger, which boasts a brisket and short rib patty topped with American cheese, grilled onions, and “Jefe Sauce” served on a Martin’s potato bun, helped cement their reputation for delivering a rich, meaty, and irresistibly crispy smash burger.

” We’re truly humbled and energized by the love and enthusiasm Miami has shown for Lala’s Burgers,” said Laura “Lala” Budnechky, co-owner of Apocalypse BBQ. “What started as a simple pop-up has turned into something extraordinary, and we’re grateful to have a home at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co. where fans can enjoy our smash burgers every day. Seeing the overwhelming response has been incredible, and we can’t wait to keep serving up flavors that bring people together.”

Lala’s Burgers is now open daily at Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co., 7360 SW 41 Street, in Miami. Hours are Monday from 4 to 11 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Wednesday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from noon to 1 a.m., and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. The Tuesday pop-up at Apocalypse BBQ, 9980 SW 104 Street, in Kendall, will continue every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Amigos for Kids Toy Drive

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On December - 11 - 2024

Amigos For Kids, a Miami-based nonprofit committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, is preparing to host its much-loved 33rd Annual Holiday Toy Drive. This cherished event, taking place on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Jose Martí Park, promises to spread joy and fulfill holiday wishes for thousands of underprivileged children across South Florida.

First launched as the organization’s flagship event, the Toy Drive has grown into a cornerstone of holiday giving, brightening the season for families who need it most. Karina Pavone, President & CEO of Amigos For Kids, shared, “Year after year, our community comes together to create magical moments for the children and families we serve. Their generosity allows us to bring hope and joy to families during the holiday season.”

The annual initiative is made possible through the unwavering support of corporate sponsors, community donors, dedicated volunteers, and Amigos’ hardworking staff. Board Chair Maggie Fresen Zulueta, who also serves as Vice President of Academica, highlighted the event’s impact: “This Toy Drive is about more than just giving gifts. It’s about making dreams come true for children and advancing our mission to prevent child abuse and neglect in our community.”

This year’s sponsors include:

  • Make A Wish Sponsor: The Chariff Family, Magic City Casino
  • Gold Leaf Sponsors: The Gloria Estefan Foundation, FedEx, Miami Heat Charitable Fund, Miami Dade County District 5 Commissioner Eileen Higgins, The Floyd Family, Chick-Fil-A, and the Brunetti Foundation
  • Silver Bell Sponsor: Amerant Bank, AA Advance Air, and Abogadas 305
  • Candy Cane Sponsors: Archdiocese of Miami, FPL, Florida Blue, First American Bank, Miami Dade County District 6 Commissioner Kevin Cabrera
  • Amigos Partners: PNC Bank, LIV Golf, Republica Havas, Urbieta Family Foundation
  • Media Sponsors: Univision 23

The day promises to be filled with festive fun as pre-registered children and their families join the celebration at Jose Martí Park. From selecting their personalized gifts to meeting Santa and enjoying holiday treats, the event creates lasting memories for all.

Extending the spirit of giving beyond the park, Amigos For Kids will also distribute toys directly to children at partner organizations throughout the community, with the help of board members, staff, and volunteers.

Make A Wish Sponsor, Jonathan Chariff, expressed his pride in being part of the event: “Collaborating with Amigos For Kids is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing the smiles on children’s faces and the joy it brings to families is priceless. Supporting this remarkable initiative is truly an honor.”

Amigos For Kids invites the community to join in spreading holiday cheer by donating, purchasing gifts, or volunteering. Visit amigosforkids.org for more details, and stay connected on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter at @AmigosForKids

The Hot 100 for Art Basel Miami Beach Week Is Here!

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On December - 5 - 2024

The Hot 100 is the trusted guide to navigating Art Basel Miami Beach Week, providing access information to the best special events of the week. For just $50, this high-profile directory offers a chronological listing of top private event programming, clickable RSVP links, select comp passes, and daily updates as new invites roll in. Trusted by celebrities, media professionals, and luxury brand leaders, the Hot 100 simplifies your schedule, keeps you informed on what’s happening at any hour, and helps you navigate the overwhelming Basel process. Get your guide here and experience Art Week like never before. 

Curated by Entertainment Influencers and Unparalleled Productions, a leading show management and production company with roots in Miami, New York, and Los Angeles.

PAMM puts the “Art” in Party

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On November - 7 - 2024

On Saturday, November 9, 2024, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will host its 11th annual Art of the Party—an unmissable fête mixing philanthropy, fine dining, and flair. Honoring Kenneth C. Griffin, Citadel’s head honcho and an arts-and-culture patron extraordinaire, the night celebrates art with Miami-style glamour.

Expect a star-studded cocktail reception, a dinner that’s more culinary art than meal, and the announcement of the sixth Pérez Prize—a coveted award for artists shaping global art narratives. As PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans puts it, this event is all about creating “genuine human interactions with and through art.” Translation: it’s not just a party; it’s a cultural moment.

Funds raised will turbocharge PAMM’s arts education programs—already the largest outside Miami-Dade Public Schools—and keep the museum’s mission thriving.

The Breakdown:
Chef’s Table Dinner (6:30 PM): Dine under the stars on the East Portico, where cocktails, live music, and a gourmet menu accompany the evening’s honors.

Remix Party (9:30 PM): Hit the North Terrace Platform for a dance party led by DJ and artist José Parlá, whose exhibit Homecoming lands at PAMM later this month. Bonus: decadent desserts and an open bar to keep the vibes high.

Want in? Tickets and sponsorship info are at pamm.org/aotp24. Whether you’re mingling with Miami’s cultural elite or just there for the vibes, Art of the Party promises to be a masterpiece of its own.

Sponsors