Splendor in the Garden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden 

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, together with Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, will host “Splendor in the Garden” on Thursday, January 26.  The afternoon will feature a reception in the Garden sponsored by Nicolas Feuillatte champagne followed by a seated luncheon and formal fashion show produced by Neiman Marcus Senior Vice President and Fashion Director, Ken Downing. In addition, Fairchild will honor a group of special women who have contributed significantly to Fairchild’s success and who have made “giving fashionable.” Those being honored are Penny Stamps, Jayne Abess, Pamela Garrison, Judy Kramer, Joyce Burns, Nancy Batchelor, Jennifer Buttrick and Brenda Nestor Castellano. All proceeds will benefit Fairchild’s numerous programs in conservation, science, children’s education and research. For ticket information and reservations please contact: sshubin@fairchildgarden.org or 305.667.1651, ext. 3375.

Roots of Hope “Youth Empowerment through Fashion & Music” 

On Saturday, January 28, at 10:00 p.m., Roots of Hope and Nicolita Swimwear partner up together to present an unforgettable night filled with music, dancing, and fashion at PAX Miami. The event will feature models wearing Nicole Di Rocco’s Nicolita Swimwear interacting with the crowd as the Latin sounds of Suenalo play on the stage. Suenalo’s music, inspired by Afro Cuban and Puerto Rican influences, and has been recognized as Best Latin Band in 2011 by Miami New Times, and Nicole’s swimwear line inspired by Cuban places and icons will give attendees an opportunity to immerse themselves in different aspects of the Cuban culture. They will also have a chance to speak with members of Roots of Hope and find out how they can get involved and help empower Cuban youth.

Gung Hay Fat Choy! Mandarin Oriental Celebrates Chinese New Year 

Mandarin Oriental, Miami has an array of celebratory offerings to honor the Chinese lunar calendar and usher in the Year of the Dragon.The Al Fresco Chinese New Year Party: on Saturday, January 28, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.  will include music, delicious Asian cuisine stations with open bar, a majestic dragon dance and entertainment, all set to the backdrop of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Tickets are $95 per person in advance or $110 at the door, plus tax and gratuity. There will be an art exhibition in the lobby from  January 23 through March 5 featuring the works of renowned Chinese Artist Fung Ming Chip, who specializes in Chinese calligraphy, considered in Asian culture to be one of the highest arts. The exhibition is curated by Vincent Tom and Christopher Thompson from Miami’s Crimson Gate Gallery. Additionally, Cafe Sambal will offer a celebratory a la carte menu nightly from January 23 through February 5, from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m. For dining reservations, tickets or any additional information, call 305.913.8358 or send an email to momia-restaurants@mohg.com.

Family Creativity Center at Bass Museum of Art

On Sunday, January 29, the Bass Museum of Art will introduce the Lindemann Family Creativity Center. The museum will commemorate the opening of the center with an inauguration ceremony and ribbon cutting at 12:30 p.m. followed by family activities from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. as well as a fortune telling by artist David Rohn, also known as “The Amazing Ultran.” Regularly scheduled family day activities will also take place in the museum’s café from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. In addition, the Bass Museum of Art will introduce two new children’s programs with multiple sessions spanning February through May. The Bass Babies program for ages 2 – 4 will be held weekly on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. and allow parents and their toddles to tap into their creative side while learning the basics of art. The Bass Buddies program for ages 4 – 6 will be held every other Saturday from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. and will include specific art lessons that are paired with a fitting song. Other activities may include science experiments, slide shows, museum walks and short stories. Admission to the museum and activities are free of charge as always on IDEA@thebass family days.

Tommy Davidson at Ricochet Bar and Lounge

Impersonation guru Tommy Davidson joins the comedian line-up at Ricochet Bar & Lounge this month showing off his wit and innovative talent to the crowd. Best known as one of the original stars from In Living Color and his role in Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Davidson will perform live stand-up comedy at Midtown Miami’s newest culture-centric bar and lounge on Monday, January 30. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. with an anticipated, soon to be announced, opening act for Davidson. Tickets are only $25 per person, so don’t miss out on this extraordinary performance by a comedy legend. Purchase your tickets at http://ricochetlounge.com/#section8.

Sixth Annual Stars of Design Awards

On Wednesday, February 1, Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) and Charles S. Cohen, Owner, CEO and President of Cohen Brothers Realty, will shine a spotlight on the design world’s leading professionals with the Sixth Annual Stars of Design Awards. A ceremony and reception will be held on day one of the Design Center’s two-day WinterMarket in honor of the design luminaries, at which time guests will celebrate with live music, performances, hors d’oeuvres and beverages courtesy of 42 Below, Alacrán Tequila, Mandarine Napoléon and Société Perrier. The 2012 Stars of Design Award Honorees are: Clodagh, Chad Oppenheim, Jennifer Post, Kiran Shiva Akal, Franco Pianegonda, DJ Hay, Iran Issa Khan, and Henry Richardson. This year, DCOTA will add a new facet to its Stars of Design Awards, the “Stars on the Rise” category, which will honor five designers forty years of age or younger, who have already made a significant mark in the design world. The 2012 Stars on the Rise are: Alison Antrobus, Eric Winnick, Joe Fava, A. Keith Powell and Donanne Ramos. The award ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception following at 7:00 p.m.; to RSVP contact 954.920.7997 extension 240 or adriana@taraink.com .

National Frozen Yogurt Day

National Frozen Yogurt Day is on Monday, February 6 and Yogurtland is celebrating this day by offering FREE frozen yogurt to everyone who visits any of the 160+ locations across the country! Yogurtland will be giving away 5 oz. cups of frozen yogurt from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in each participating location for one day only.

Blo has landed in Midtown

Celebrate the hottest hairspray-fueled party of the year at Ricochet Bar & Lounge on Thursday, January 19. Blo Blow Dry Bar has opened its second Miami location (and 18th in the world!) in Midtown. A team of” bloers” will be offering signatures styles at the braid bar followed by a personalized caricature as a keepsake. While getting coifed and calibrated to insanely chic, guests will enjoy Blo-gasim’s, lite bites, raffles, prizes and more. In honor of Dress for Success, proceeds will be donated to the international non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women located in 110 cities across 12 countries. Dress for Success depends on a team of qualified, passionate and dedicated individuals, organizations and companies, each of whom plays an indispensable role in their success. The event is from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., to rsvp visit blomidtown@taraink.com.

Pawpurrazzi at Jungle Island 

Join Pawpurrazzi as it celebrates its fourth year as a major gala benefitting the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Held at Jungle Island on January 20, at 7:00 p.m., more than 500 people with their dogs are expected to attend, dressed to the nines. Bone-afide Chairpersons of the event, Pat and Milton Wallace, Bunny Bastian, along with Honorary Chairperson Nora Bulnes, Co-Chairwomen Marisa Cisneros-Rizzon, and Ann Rubino, are putting together a spectacular event, not to be missed, including a performance from the movie The Aristocats. The Humane Society of Greater Miami is dedicated to placing every dog and cat into a loving home, and to promoting responsible pet ownership and spay/neuter programs. More than 300 homeless dogs, cats, puppies and kittens are cared for every day in its shelter. Tickets are priced at $550, $750 and $1000 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets visit http://www.humanesocietymiami.org/.

Fairchild’s International Chocolate, Coffee and Tea Festival

Chocoholics take note! FairchildTropicalBotanic Garden’s International Chocolate Festival starts tomorrow and runs for three days—Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 20 through 22. Now it its sixth year, it’s a chocolate lover’s must attend event and this year it’s bigger and better than ever!

For three days visitors will be immersed in the wonderful and diverse world of chocolate, coffee and tea—from chocolate treats to tree sales, delicious cups of coffee and soothing cups of tea, cooking demonstrations to fun and educational kid’s activities, and so much more.So come get a taste of chocolates, coffee, tea from around the world and join in on the celebration of that divine tropical plant, Theobroma cacao, the source of chocolate! The International Chocolate Festival is a must attend event in South Florida! The Festival it is in its sixth year with over 12,000 visitors attending last year. This year, the Festival will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 20, 21 & 22, 2011 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, 33156. Admission is $25 adults, $18 seniors, $12 children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. Eco-discount: If you ride your bike, walk or use public transportation, receive $5 off for adults and $2 off for children. It’s Fairchild’s way of thanking you for contributing to conservation. For more information,  visit www.fairchildgarden.org.

Lunch at Philippe Chow Miami  

Celebrity hotspot Philippe Chow Miami, which reopened in South Beach to much acclaim at 36 South Ocean Drive in November 2011, has introduced a three-course lunch special available Monday through Saturday from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. The prix fixe lunch menu, which rolled out Monday, January 16, features signature Philippe Chow favorites as well as vegetarian-friendly dishes and is available in addition to the full menu. The special three-course menu, which is available for parties of eight or fewer, offers: Appetizers including House Salad, Chicken Satay, Crispy Seaweed, Vegetable Dumplings and Chicken Lettuce Wraps; Entrees including Chicken and Broccoli, Crispy Beef, Beijing Chicken, Steamed Sea Bass with Black Bean and Garlic Sauce and a Tofu Vegetarian Plate, all served with white rice; and Dessert, including Sorbet or Ice Cream by Pastry Chef Keith Freiman, served with Coffee or Chinese Tea. The restaurant is also introducing a $29 “Power Lunch” that uses the same prix fixe menu and includes a martini, perfect for executives who wish to impress. For further information, visit www.philippechow.com.

An Evening in Vienna

On Saturday, January 21, the Miami Symphony Orchestra presents their annual New Year’s concert, ¨An Evening in Vienna¨; Waltzes, overtures and other lively dances, all conducted by the master himself, Eduardo Marturet. With his charming and energetic form, Marturet conducts the orchestra including the audience making it a unique and uplifting experience. The Swarovski Company, visiting from Austria, will present the Miami Symphony Orchestra with a one-of-a- kind handmade crystallized baton. It will be a token of appreciation given to the symphony ambassadors including, Carolina Herrera, Mark Rosenberg, Actor Andy Garcia, President Jose Maria Aznar, and Bob Abreu, among others. For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org.

Year of the Dagon at Hakkasan

Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s Hakkasan will celebrate the Year of the Dragon with seven days of menu specials. The celebration will include entertainment and auspicious traditions designed to help ward off evil spirits and bring happiness, wealth and longevity in the New Year, which begins officially on Monday, January 23. On Sunday, January 22 at 9:00 p.m. sharp, a colorful thrilling dragon dance, performed by local Kung Fu experts, will begin at Bleau Bar and make its way to Hakkasan. The procession will include traditional jumps and quick acrobatic maneuvers and will be accompanied by drum, gong and cymbal players. Menu specials at Hakkasan will be available Sunday, January 22 through Sunday, January 29. In addition to a special a la carte menu which includes traditional dishes such as Four Happiness Special Dim Sum Platter, Braised Abalone with Seafood in Pumpkin Lotus Bowl and Drunken Prawn Fire in Clay Pot, Hakkasan will offer a limited edition family-style menu celebrating the New Year ($128 per person). Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 1.877.326.7412.

Paco Fonta at the Bass Museum of Art

On Sunday, January 22 at 3:00 p.m. the Bass Museum of Art will present a concert by internationally recognized flamenco guitarist, singer and composer Paco Fonta. Paco Fonta will perform a guitar recital contrasting traditional pieces with original, contemporary compositions. The purity of form and rhythm in Fonta’s playing is imbued with flamenco essence from the root. The concert is limited to 70 guests. It is free for members and $10 for non-members.

First Annual Art Deco Jazz Week at The Betsy-South Beach

In conjunction with the Miami Design Preservation League’s annual Art Deco Weekend festivities, which this year, celebrates its 35^th year, The Betsy-South Beach, located on historic Ocean Drive, will celebrate with the First Annual Art Deco Jazz Week from Wednesday, January 11 through Sunday, January 15.  Art Deco Weekend, the largest and longest running festival on Miami Beach, closes Ocean Drive to traffic from Friday, January 13 – Sunday, January 15. In addition to musical performances, the weekend highlights include the Annual ADW parade, classic car show, lecture series, film series, antique vendors, guided tours, Art Deco and MiMo furniture exhibit, and more. The Betsy-South Beach, which presents a year-round calendar of arts, cultural and philanthropic events will enhance its regular Wednesday and Thursday night performance series with a number of additional acts in honor of the festival, featuring a line-up of notable performers. For more information call 305.760.8288 or visit online www.thebetsyhotel.com.

Meals on Wheels 

Join Apollo Bank this Thursday, January 12, from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. for some of Miami’s best gourmet restaurants on wheels! Come enjoy munching on delicious food from Miami’s most popular food trucks, like Dim Ssam A GoGo, Latin House Grill, Jefe’s Original Fish Taco & Burger, Grill Master Cafe and Sugar Rush, and mingle with Brickell’s business and residential crowd. Apollo Bank is located at 1150 South Miami Avenue.

Before They Were Famous: Behind the Lens of William John Kennedy 

At the age of 81, fine art photographer William John Kennedy began an unprecedented journey and meteoric rise to fame. His recently published archive of negatives from 1963 and 1964, when he befriended and photographed rising stars Andy Warhol and Robert Indiana, was quietly introduced to the public by publisher KIWI Arts Group as a collection of silver gelatin prints at a pop-up gallery in Miami Beach last December. After six stops in major international cities and at SCOPE Miami during Art Basel Miami Beach, the collection finds a new temporary home aboard SeaFair during Miami International Art Fair (January 12 – 16, Booth #312), a five day extravaganza of art and culture situated along the waterfront near Bayfront Park. The curated, museum-style exhibition dubbed “Before They Were Famous: Behind the Lens of William John Kennedy” introduces the pivotal moments and players who shaped the course of American art in the second half of the 20^th century. From Kennedy’s images of the groundbreaking exhibit Americans 1963 at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, curated by the esteemed Dorothy Miller, to the artists with their iconic works—plus never-before-heard 1960s audio conversations between Warhol and artist Ultra Violet—the overall multimedia experience will transport visitors through an important piece of art history. Miami International Art Fair: Preview and KIWI Arts Group Champagne Reception on Thursday, January 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (VIP, Press); Fair Hours are Friday, January 13 to Sunday, January 15 from noon to 10:00 p.m. and Monday, January 16 from noon to 7:00 p.m.; www.mia-artfair.com for tickets and fair information or call  305.200.3047 | www.kiwiartsgroup.com .

American Fine Wine Competition

The Fifth Annual American Fine Wine Competition is an extraordinary event that celebrates the finest wines produced in the United States. Presented by Patriot National Insurance Group (PNIG) and Patriot (PATNAT), the event itself is comprised of several events, culminating in a Gala celebration taking place on Thursday, April 19, 2012 at the Boca Raton Resort Club & Spa in Mizner Center. The Gala Dinner will feature all the wines entered into the Competition served along with a four-course dinner and live entertainment. Legendary chef Emeril Lagasse will make a special appearance on stage, during which he will prepare the evening’s main course during a live cooking demonstration. Tickets for the Gala Dinner are $300 per person. Prior to the Gala Dinner and other unique events hosted by the AFWC, an invitation-only VIP Reception, will take place this Thursday, January 12, at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. Telephone: 561.504.VINE; www.americanfinewinecompetition.com.

Robert Redford Honored at YoungArts Gala 

On January 14, YoungArts will honor actor Robert Redford with the Arison Award at “An Affair of the Arts” performance and gala at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts starting  at 6:15 p.m. The gala evening kicks off with a street performance outside the historic Gusman Center in Downtown Miami. Attendees will then make their way into the theater for an interdisciplinary performance by YoungArts alumni from around the nation, this year featuring Marcus Canty, 2009 YoungArts Finalist in Voice in his first live performance since the X Factor, and a special awards ceremony honoring special guests Robert Redford, Doug Aitken and Robert L. Lynch. After that, it’s off to the J.W. Marriott Marquis for dinner, dancing and special presentations by YoungArts alumni. Grey Goose will keep guest hydrated through it all. Tickets for performance and awards ceremony are $20 ($10 for students with valid ID).  Tickets for the gala begin at $650, tables begin at $6,500, and corporate sponsorships are available. For more information, e-mail gala@youngarts.org.

 Educate Tomorrow “I Love the 80s” 

If you love the 80s, then head to the “I Love the 80s” Gala on January 14 to benefit Educate Tomorrow, a non-profit organization whose mission is to create independence for disadvantaged and foster youth through education, mentoring, and life skills training. The festivities will take place at a luxurious private bay front estate (17575 Old Cutler Road) and feature cocktails from Grey Goose and Bacardi, 80s tunes, and a silent auction.  So throw on your favorite 80s garb and big hair and brush up on your Rubik’s Cube skills. Regular tickets cost $150; VIP tickets are $250. All of the proceeds from ticket sales, auction items and sponsorships will directly benefit Educate Tomorrow. For more information, visit www.EducateTomorrow.org or call 305.374.3751. 

Be a Voice, Build a Dream Gala

Voices For Children Foundation, the fundraising arm of the 11^th Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program, is proud to announce that the 2012 “Be a Voice, Build a Dream Gala,” will be held on Saturday, January 14, at Mandarin Oriental, Miami. The magical evening will begin at 7:00 p.m. with cocktails, Padron Cigars and a silent auction. Following the cocktail hour, guests will be invited into the main ballroom for an evening of dinner and dancing, along with entertainment and a live auction led by BIG 105.9 Radio’s Paul Castronovo and Co-Chair Jeff Berkowitz. This year’s event will honor Paul & Swanee Dimare, influential leaders and inspiring philanthropists of the South Florida community, with the 2012 Humanitarian Award. South Florida’s own CBS Channel 4 News Anchor, Shannon Hori, will serve as the evening’s Mistress of Ceremony. Individual tickets for the Gala are $500 and $1,000 for premier seating. To learn more about underwriting opportunities and sponsorships, or to purchase a table and/or tickets to this exclusive event, call 305.324.5678 or email TRodriguez@voices4.org.

Wings Down Under: A Parrot Feeding Adventure

Zoo Miami is proud to present its latest interactive exhibit – Wings Down Under: A Parrot Feeding Adventure – at its Australian lobe. This free-flight, 1,656-square-foot aviary houses over 300 brightly colored birds including – cockatiels, parakeets, and rosellas, all parrots native to Australia. Upon arrival, guests will be surrounded by the sounds of the birds chirping and singing in the aviary’s peaceful environment encircled with a lush landscape inspired by the Australian Outback. For $3, guests can purchase a seed snack to feed the birds. The friendly birds will fly and perch on visitors’ arms or hands (and sometimes heads) in order to nibble on the treats. In addition to being a fun exhibit, Wings Down Under: A Parrot Feeding Adventure, is a learning experience. Zoo staff is available at the site to answer any questions and educate the public about the birds’ habitat and behaviors, as well as issues, concerns and challenges facing birds in the wild. The exhibit is open daily from noon to 4:30 pm. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information visit www.zoomiami.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge Grand Opening

Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge hosts its grand opening celebration, becoming South Beach’s first and only sanctuary to these time-honored games on Thursday, January 5. Managing partners Robert Chalk, Sayra Moto and Joseph Blount will be joined by Miami Beach Vice-Mayor Michael Gongora, who will present them with a certificate of recognition and preside over the lounge’s inaugural ribbon cutting ceremony. Local street artists Jessy Nite, George Sanchez Calderon, Pest 131, Pucho, Typoe, JillBird, and She Kills He of Primary Flight will also be on hand to unveil a custom paddle wall art installation. Along with complimentary ping-pong and billiards, guests at the event will enjoy cocktails by Absolut Vodka and Jose Cuervo Tequila, as well as music by DJs Keen One and Chris Oh of Primary Flight. The private grand opening begins at 9:00 p.m. and is by invitation only. Doors open to the public at 10:00 p.m., RSVP to RSVP@chalkmiami.com.

Inventive Art Class at the Bass Museum of Art

The Bass Museum of Art will host an Inventive Art Class on Sunday, January 8, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., as part of its successful IDEA@thebass program. Students ages 5 to 11 will work as a team with a parent or guardian to solve a design challenge. This month’s challenge will be to teach students how to create their own flipbook and Zoetropes. Class begins promptly at 2:00 p.m. and has a series of planned activities until 4:00 p.m.  IDEA@thebass is an interactive program that was developed to promote design-thinking skills, support creativity, and personal expression. The Inventive Art Classes are held on the second Sunday of every month and feature various design challenges meant for children and their parents or guardians to complete as a team. Inventive Art Classes are limited to 30 students and advance registration is required. Admission to the classes is free for dual/family members and $10 per child for non-members.

Kreiss and Alonzo Mourning Celebrate Launch of Design District Showroom

Kreiss, the internationally acclaimed home furnishings and design powerhouse along with retired NBA All-Star and philanthropist Alonzo Mourning, will celebrate the arrival of its Design District showroom on Tuesday, January 10, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Guests will welcome the luxury brand’s new Miami location, which will offer the company’s casual yet elegant handmade furniture, fabrics, finishes, fine linens, accessories and exclusive design services, with eco-friendly cocktails courtesy of VeeV, hors d’oeuvres and a sneak peak of three new collections. In honor of the grand opening, The Norman and Eileen Kreiss Foundation has designated the Honey Shine Mentoring Program as the event’s beneficiary. Handcrafted from natural materials, including hand-carved woods, organic patterns and textures, and earth-inspired colors and hues, Kreiss furnishings serve as a warm, inviting backdrop for those who enjoy the privileged, active and free-spirited lifestyle of the quintessential Californian. For more information or to rsvp contact Kreiss@taraink.com or call 305.864.3434 ext. 199.

Come Together and Feed South Florida

Members of the South Florida community are invited to join the fight against hunger and attend Feeding South Florida’s (formerly Daily Bread Food Bank) “Come Together” evening event on Thursday, January 12. Celebrating its 30^th anniversary, Feeding South Florida is hosting a soiree at the Margulies Collection Warehouse, which will feature food, spirits, incredible artwork, live entertainment, some of South Florida’s top chefs, and more. Proceeds/sponsorships will benefit Feeding South Florida; a not-for-profit organization that feeds South Florida’s hungry in order to improve their lives. Attendees should dress for the “Come Together” event however they feel comfortable – from jeans to tuxedos. “Come Together” event chairs are Maria R. Millares, president of the Board of Directors for Feeding South Florida; Chef Allen Susser, one of South Florida’s top chefs; and Terry Zarikian of China Grill Management and New York’s City Harvest. Current event sponsors are JM Family and Millares & Company; in-kind sponsors are The Margulies Collection at the Warehouse, VSBrooks Advertising, Panache Party Rentals, Le Basque, Bacardi, Southern Wine & Spirits, Shutter Box Photo Booth, VOSS Water and Neiman Marcus.Also participating in “Come Together” are some of the South Florida’s top restaurants including China Grill, Asia de Cuba, Egg & Dart, City Hall, Mercadito, Ortanique on the Mile, Chef Allen, D Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean, Scarpetta, The Forge, La Palme D’Or Restaurant at the Biltmore, Makoto, 1500° at Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach and Whisk Gourmet Food & Catering.Feeding South Florida’s mission is to feed South Florida’s hungry in order to improve their lives. It does this by distributing food and groceries through its network of not-for-profit organizations, educating the public about the issue, and engaging our community in the fight to end hunger. Event is from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.; individual tickets are $125. To RSVP and/or for sponsorship information, contact Jessica Diaz at 954.518.1839 or Jdiaz@feedingsouthflorida.org, or visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org.

Mommy & Me Tea at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden will hold a special Mommy & Me Tea on the veranda and in the ballroom of the Jean Ellen Dupont Shehan Visitor Center on Sunday, January 15. Mothers, daughters and grandmothers will all delight in the ambiance of Afternoon Tea served at beautifully set tables, complete with fine china, by the delightful Fairchild volunteers. The menu includes scones, mini tea sandwiches, cookies and petit fours. Live music by local guitarist Rob Friedman is sure to enhance the guests’ experience. Tea service begins at 3:00 p.m. Cost per person is $27 for members, $37 for non-members and $17 for children 12 and under. For more information and reservations, please call Marnie Valent at 305.667.1651 ext. 3359.

RA Sushi in South Miami Hosts NYE Remix 

In celebration of 2012, RA Sushi in South Miami will turn back the clock with a New Year’s Eve Remix. On Sunday, January 1, 2012 from 8 p.m. to close, guests can indulge in Sunday Night’s Flying Fish Lounge specials with select sushi, appetizers and tapas ranging from $2 to $7 and drink specials starting at just $3. Additional New Year’s Eve Remix specials include Tootsy Maki, Crunchy Calamari and Shishito Peppers for $5 each and Crispy Spicy Shrimp at $8. For additional information or to RSVP, visit http://www.facebook.com/RAsushiSouthMiami. 

Vitamin C Communications Hosts “New Year’s Forever” at the Bath Club

Vitamin C Communications announces its fourth annual New Year’s Eve event, “New Year’s Forever,” at Miami’s historic venue, The Bath Club. On Saturday, December 31, guests will ring in the New Year with live music, performances and a delectable three-course dinner. The celebration kicks off at 8:00 p.m. with a cocktail reception featuring libations by Brugal and Cointreau. At 9:00 p.m., guests will indulge in a lavish sit-down dinner by Chef Brian Aaron. “New Year’s Forever” is also offering a limited-seating, five-course molecular gastronomy dinner that includes a Piper-Heidsieck bottle for two and five-flight Macallan scotch tasting,u as well as a meet-and-greet with Chef Brian Aaron. Doors will open for general admission at 10:00 p.m. “New Year’s Forever” dinner packages start at $215, five-course dinner (50 seats available) at $295 and general admission tickets at $145. All tickets include a six-hour premium open bar and a midnight Champagne toast. Table service is available starting at $950. To purchase tickets and view full menus, visit www.newyearsforever.com.

Ricochet Celebrates New Year’s Eve

Ricochet lounge invites partygoers to ring in the New Year with piano iconoclast ELEW and sounds by DJ Turk on Saturday, December 31, from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The acclaimed pianist will make it a memorable evening for all, counting down to 2012 with his engaging new style of playing – an inspired fusing of ragtime, rock and pop he calls Rockjazz. Along with this one-of-a-kind performance by ELEW, ticketholders can enjoy open bar until 1AM, passed hors d’oeuvres by Chef Jason Guerrero, a bubbly midnight toast and beats by DJ Turk. For only $100 a ticket, it’s hard to think of a reason not to choose Ricochet Bar & Lounge this New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available for purchase at http://ricochetlounge.com/#section8. For information on table service please call 786.353.0846 or visit www.ricochetlounge.com.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day at Mercadito Midtown

With a pulsating atmosphere, live deejay throughout the night and delectable food and cocktails, there’s no better place to usher in 2012 than Mercadito Midtown. Guests can enjoy the restaurant’s regular dinner menu anytime before 8:30 p.m. Beginning at 9:45, the restaurant presents two dining options: Five-Course Sharing Menu ($55 per person) – Whether a girls’ night, family night or night on the town with the pals, Executive Chef/Partner Patricio Sandoval’s signature sharing menu provides the perfect ending to a great year. Seating begins at 9:45 p.m. Prices are exclusive of alcohol. Sharing Menu with Open Bar ($100 per person) – For groups looking to toast the night away, Mercadito Midtown offers its five-course signature sharing menu alongside a two-hour open bar, including a Champagne toast, specialty cocktails, wines by the glass, beer,premium well and tequila under $11 (no shots). Additional hours for open may be purchased for $15 per hour per person. Cure-All Brunch – Start 2012 off right at Mercadito Midtown! Guests can continue the party on January 1with an unforgettable Mexican brunch. They can order from the a la carte menu, or opt for the family-style “Perfect Hangover Cure” for $18 per person – which includes three sharing menu items for the table and one cocktail each – or the “Ultimate Hangover Cure” for $30 per person – which includes three sharing menu items for the table and unlimited cocktails for 1.5 hours. Served from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Brunch are highly recommended and can be made by calling (786) 369-0430.

Ring in the New Year at Kitchen 305  

Kitchen 305 at The Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort is the ultimate party destination for celebration on December 31, with multiple ways to ring in 2012. A festive pre-party starts at Kitchen 305 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. featuring a top shelf open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres for $40 a person. Partygoers looking for something more substantial to savor can reserve a table for an all-inclusive, four-course dinner for $55 per person. The special New Year’s Eve dinner menu starts with Maryland crab bisque with chives and double whipped cream followed by a garden bouquet salad with poached pears, goat cheese medallions and raspberry champagne vinaigrette. Entrée choices include Hong Kong style, yuzo glazed sea bass with garlic baby bok choy; petit filet mignon; jumbo crab in béarnaise sauce accompanied by butternut squash; or roasted duck with black currant sauce. Dessert choices include flourless chocolate cake with cherries jubilee or Chef Chris’ signature apple strudel with warm, vanilla bean ice-cream. Guests can add an open bar tab to dinner from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. for only $25 more. Countdown the last days of 2011 and dance the night away with celebrity DJ Mike Fusion from Los Angeles who will spin the hottest tracks with DJ RZ Spinzs and DJ UZO (a.k.a The Black Russian) starting at 10 p.m. Zhantra Dancers and a live band will provide additional entertainment. Latecomers can join in the festivities with a complimentary glass of sparkling champagne and party favors for a midnight toast for $25 per person. For reservations, call 305.749.2110 or visit www.kitchen305miami.com.

Celebrate New Year’s at the Bank 

The Bank vault lounge and gallery is proud to announce its New Year’s Eve 2012 celebration, which will feature beats by Troy Kurtz as well as a cryogenics gun show performed by the Illuminautians dancers.The modern speakeasy’s New Year’s Eve celebration will feature a Boardwalk Empire theme complete with a cryogenics gun show by dancers clad in 1920’s costumes. Guests will follow a red carpet into the vault that will feature Prohibition-era décor throughout the venue.Individual tickets ($100) and VIP table reservations ($1,200 – $10,000) are available for purchase and include premium open bar (9 p.m. to midnight) as well as a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. The Bank’s VIP vault, located behind the black granite bar, will offer the ultimate experience for up to ten people with five premium bottles, limousine service for the night, and a personal bottle waitress and security guard ($10,000).

For individual ticket purchase and VIP table reservations, call 305.373.1515 or visit www.thebankmiami.com.

Joey’s Italian Café for Drinks and Dancing

Joey’s Italian Café is gearing up for celebrations to ring-in the New Year. On New Year’s Eve, DJ Beastwood will spin and mix funk and 70’s tracks while guests dance the night away. Open until 2:00 a.m., Joey’s will serve their regular dinner menu as well as special dishes crafted by talented executive chef Ivo Mazzon. Chef Ivo’s a la carte specials include trippa spezzatino – tripe stew and mixed seafood salad for appetizers. Main-course selections include lamb shank with asparagus pure; lobster risotto; and cotechino with lentils – a traditional Italian sausage dish served on New Year’s Eve. For dessert, enjoy the delicious panetone ubriacone – drunken panetone. Joey’s will also offer a special pizza and wine pairing menu, where the resident sommelier will give his suggestions as to which wine pairs best with which pizza. Pairings include the classic pizza margherita ($9), fresh tomatoes, mozzarellas and basil, paired with Lambrusco Scintilla D’Amore ($7.00 per glass/$29.00 bottle); and verde ($13), scamorza and mozzarella cheese, eggs and parmesan, paired with I Tre Vescovi, a Barbera red wine. For more information and reservations call (305) 438-0488 or visit www.joeyswynwood.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Super Chef Geoffrey Zakarian Celebrates at the Tudor House 

Food Network’s ultimate culinary battle officially ended last Sunday when Tudor House’s Chef & Partner Geoffrey Zakarian conquered Elizabeth Faulkner in the exciting holiday-themed finale of The Next Iron Chef: Super Chefs. Tudor House is celebrating the victory with specials drawn from Zakarian’s “Next Iron Chef” creations.  These include an amuse bouche of Halibut Crudo with Coconut, Lime and Olive Oil, Truffle Scramble Eggs ($28) and Caramel Pork Belly with Artichokes Bariguole ($24). All of these dishes will be available through December 31. Chef Geoffrey Zakarian’s first foray into battle as an Iron Chef will premiere on Sunday, December 25, at 9pm ET/PT.

Zakarian’s restaurants include Tudor House in Miami and The Lambs Club and The National in New York City.  He also oversees the dining program at The Water Club in Atlantic City.  He will now appear regularly on “Iron Chef America,” demonstrating his razor-sharp knowledge of culinary techniques in this fast-paced cooking competition.  When not battling in kitchen stadium, Zakarian stays busy filming “CHOPPED”, where he is featured as a recurring judge, and highlights his favorite dishes on “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” For reservations or more information, visit www.tudorhousemiami.com or call 305.534.8455. 

Digest Miami Holiday Survival Guide

Digest Miami is celebrating the holidays with the Digest Miami Holiday Survival Guide, composed of mouth watering holiday dishes from some of the city’s leading chefs. Specially created for the Holiday season, this extensive collection features recipes from twelve Chefs, many of whom are James Beard winners or nominees. Since the introduction of Digest Miami, it has garnered the interest of the best Chefs in South Florida and now allows you to step into the kitchen of some of our favorite restaurants. The Survival guide is a comprehensive step-by-step resource for anyone wanting to create the perfect holiday meal, from appetizers like Chef Michael Shikany’s Foie Terrine, to main courses like Paula DaSilva’s Rack of Lamb and Peter Vauthy’s Standing Rib Roast. The menu also includes side dishes like Chef Paul Griffin’s Asparagus Al Forno, Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Patatas Bravas and Chef Dana Brizee’s Truffle Mac & Cheese. And to add a bit of decadence we’ve included desserts such as Chef Antonio Bachour’s Panna Cotta and Chef Miguel Aguilar’s Bread Pudding. Specialty cocktails from Morton’s Steakhouse and Wynwood Kitchen complete the menu. For more information about DIGEST MIAMI, visit www.digestmiami.com or contact Nick Betancourt | 786-287-1725 | Nick.Betancourt@yahoo.com or Tima Zein | 305-752-9400 | press@digestmiami.com. 

Arquiste:  The Debut Fragrances 

A scent is a time capsule. It can invoke our most intimate memories and dreams, and open doors to distant worlds. Created by an architect specializing in Historic Preservation, Arquiste is a fragrance collection that transports the wearer to evocative moments in history. Meticulously researched using authentic sources and crafted with only the rarest of ingredients, each fragrance restores the olfactive experience of a particular time and place, allowing both women and men to unlock personal revelations and experience history in a most intimate way. Available at The Webster Miami priced from $165.

MatzoBall® at LIV 

A holiday in its own right, the Society of Young Jewish Professionals, JDate and SLEEK MedSpa bring back the MatzoBall® on Saturday, December 24. Celebrating 25 years, the high-energy event starts at 8 p.m. at Miami’s own LIV (you must be 21 or older to attend). Adding to the party-frenzy, for the first time ever, the MatzoBall has spawned a sister party, The Big Chill, geared towards the 25 and older crowd, which will take place at Arkadia. Tickets to each event are available for advanced purchase online at www.matzoball.org or at the door – cash only for $30. A group ticket granted access to both MatzoBall and The Big Chill is available online only for $50.

December Spirited Dinner with Revolucion Tequila

In presenting Miami’s hottest monthly series, Mercadito Midtown is pleased to feature Revolucion Tequila for the last spirited dinner of the year on Wednesday, December 28 at 8:30 p.m. Throughout the evening, Chef/Partner Patricio Sandoval will present four gourmet, sharing courses – all prepared using Revolucion Tequila. Cocktails created by the award-winning Tippling Bros. will also showcase the spirit, and will be paired with several courses. The cost is $45 per person (exclusive of tax and gratuity). Mercadito’s expert culinary team, as well as a Revolucion ambassador, will be on hand to answer any questions. Visit www.mercaditorestaurants.com/midtown to view the menu.