Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On August - 29 - 2024
Get ready to treat your taste buds and mingle with Miami’s finest at the ultimate foodie celebration. MIAMI Magazine’s annual culinary extravaganza, “To Live & Dine,” is back and better than ever. This year’s event promises a night of indulgence, showcasing the city’s most delectable dishes.
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, September 10, from 6 PM to 9 PM at Paradise Plaza in the Miami Design District. As “To Live & Dine” celebrates its 14th year, expect nothing less than a gastronomic adventure featuring the best bites from Miami’s top restaurants and culinary stars. Picture yourself savoring creations from culinary hotspots like ABA, Amalia, Bellita Pasta, Boulud Sud Miami, Casadonna Miami, Cookin Genie, Delilah, Dirty French, Elastika, Kissaki, Kojin 2.0, La Natural, Sereia, Sushi Sake, Truluck’s, Uchi, Vitolo, and more. And let’s not forget the cocktails! Refreshing sips from Yave Tequila and Una Vodka will keep the good vibes flowing, while Chip City Cookies takes care of your dessert fix.
Here’s the inside scoop: Miami Socialholic subscribers can snag 25% off tickets with the code Miami25, dropping the price from $100 to just $75. With unlimited bites and an open bar, it’s a deal too tasty to pass up.
As we stepped onto the sandy shores of the stylish Joia Beach, we were delighted by all of the beautifully branded Viktor&Rolf umbrellas and decor in honor of the brand’s unveiling of its latest olfactory masterpiece: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily. The scene was set like a page out of a summer romance novel—an exclusive, private party under the setting Miami sun, where the air was filled with the scent of tiger lilies- which were ever present- on the displays, bars and cocktail tables.
The guest list included influencers: Batsheva Haart, Valerie Domínguez, Alejandra Divo, Lisa Opie, Paula Macher, Christie Ferrari, and Moira Tumas, who mingled, and toasted to the new takeover, while sampling the fragrances and taking plenty of insta-worthy photos.
As we marveled at the Miami skyline at dusk, while swinging on rope swings by the ocean, we could sense the buzz of the stylish crowd, as they sipped signature cocktails and sampled the Flowerbomb and Spicebomb collections; their senses alight with the rich, floral, and spicy notes.
Cocktails flowed freely, each one as beautifully crafted as the fragrances themselves. And then, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the music took over. Puerto Rican singer RaiNao serenaded us with her sultry voice, while Coco&Breezy spun beats that kept everyone dancing well into the night.
Fortunately, the Flowerbomb Tiger Lily Beach Club pop-up will continue through August 18th.
Guests will have a chance to lounge by the water, cocktail in hand, while enjoying the scents of tiger lily wafting through the air at this tropical oasis right in the heart of Miami. Be sure to visit to sample the full Flowerbomb collection, and shop to your heart’s content.
We are sure you’ll agree: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily isn’t just a perfume, it’s the scent of summer in a bottle.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 22 - 2024
From golden-hour strolls to underground soirées, this is your curated guide to Paris-filled with beauty, art, food, fashion and all-night parties.
In Paris, every corner turns like a page from a novel. The light is golden, the fashion is effortless, and the air—thick with perfume, croissants, flowers and possibility—whispers in French. Whether you’re wandering cobblestone streets or clinking glasses in a candlelit lounge, the city invites you to live beautifully, one moment at a time.
Where to Stay: Stylish, Sultry, and Central
Hotel Baume Set in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this Art Deco jewel blends elegance with intimacy. Each room is dressed in vintage tones and velvet textures, with views of Paris rooftops and the Odeon Theatre. The staff is friendly and the accommodations are impeccable. Breakfast is available daily- we recommend having it en suite on your rose covered terrace. Call: +33 1 53 10 28 50
Golden Hour Glamour: The Sunset Ritual
As dusk paints the sky, head to the Tuileries Gardens for a golden stroll. Cross the Pont Alexandre III and follow the Seine until the Eiffel Tower begins to shimmer. The tower sparkles for five minutes at the top of every hour starting at 10 PM.
Fashion, Darling
La Galerie Dior Part museum, part dream, the Dior museum is a celebration of couture and creativity. Walk through mirrored tunnels, study Monsieur Dior’s sketches, and marvel at the iconic gowns. Call: +33 1 40 73 53 42
Dinner, Dancing & Decadence
Matignon Start with a posh, clubby dinner—think foie gras and truffle risotto—and then descend into one of Paris’s sexiest secrets: an underground nightclub that’s a fashion-forward party every single night of the week. Call: +33 1 42 89 64 72
Silencio Founded by filmmaker David Lynch, this club is a cultural cabaret—film screenings, art shows, live music, and velvet everything. VIP-only until midnight, then it turns into one of the world’s most exclusive nightclubs. Want the ultimate night? Ask for Rodolphe, the club’s General Manager—he’ll make sure your night is next-level with true VIP treatment. Call: +33 1 40 13 12 33
Hôtel Costes Slip into something stylish and settle in for champagne, cocktails and bites beneath chandeliers and roses. The lounge is dark, sexy, and always full of fashion’s finest. Perfect to start your night—with champagne, of course. Call: +33 1 44 94 35 00
Le Colonia (Secret Club) No signs. No website. Just a hidden door to a stunning, tile-laden perfume shop with a nightly password. Press the magic tile to enter a cavernous den of music, style and all-night revelry. Equal parts downstairs speakeasy and runway show— si tu sais, tu sais. @le_colonia_Paris_
Café Culture & Historic Glamour
Café Beaubourg Across from Centre Pompidou, this glass-front café is a chic multilevel bookstore turned restaurant that serves authentic French food. It’s an ideal spot to people-watch, sip Kir Royals, and feel très Parisienne. Don’t miss out on the profiteroles.
Le Procope The oldest café in Paris. Voltaire, Napoleon, and Benjamin Franklin once dined here. You’ll feel the centuries in the red velvet and chandeliers. The French onion soup and escargot are the best in town and the steak frites are de regueur. Call: +33 1 40 46 79 00
Le Marais
Le Marais is where old-world Paris meets contemporary cool—an effortlessly chic district that’s equal parts historic and cutting-edge. Cobblestone streets wind past 17th-century mansions turned into art galleries and indie boutiques. It’s one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for shopping, whether you’re browsing designer vintage, French concept stores, or emerging local labels. Hungry? You’re in luck. Le Marais also boasts the city’s highest concentration of ethnic restaurants, from falafel joints on Rue des Rosiers to upscale Israeli, North African, and Thai spots, all packed shoulder to shoulder. It’s a global flavor tour, no Metro ticket required.
For the Culture Lovers
– Musée d’Orsay: Impressionist heaven – The Louvre: Mona Lisa, Winged Nike, Venus de Milo – Fondation Louis Vuitton: Gehry’s glass art vessel in the Bois de Boulogne Call: +33 1 40 69 96 00
More Musts in the City of Light
Jardin du Luxembourg A Parisian classic—perfect for a sunny afternoon stroll, a quiet book under the chestnut trees, or a game of chess with locals. With its manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and statues of queens, it’s where elegance meets everyday life.
Notre-Dame de Paris
Recently reopened and more breathtaking than ever. Step inside to marvel at the restored stained glass, soaring arches, and Gothic majesty that has inspired poets for centuries. The marvel is a powerful, spiritual pause in the heart of the city.
Bonnie Atop the SO/ Paris Hotel, Bonnie is a retro-chic rooftop bar and restaurant with a panoramic view of the skyline—and a front-row seat to the Eiffel Tower’s glittering light show. Come for cocktails, stay for the vibe. Call: +33 1 78 90 74 60
Les Trois Mailletz A bohemian piano bar in the Latin Quarter with live jazz, singing and piano performances in an underground wine cave that hosts some of the best late-night jam sessions in the city. Think Édith Piaf meets Paris jazz underground. Call: +33 1 43 54 00 79
In Paris, the days are dreamy—but the nights are everything. From secret clubs to sparkling towers, this city doesn’t sleep, it seduces.
For insider tips from a local, contact: @yanariabtsun; website: planvoyage.fr
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 1 - 2024
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in the Florida Keys, look no further than the newly re-opened Papa Joe’s Waterfront in Islamorada. Renowned for its breathtaking sunset views, we’re talking the sun melting into the ocean, Papa Joe’s offers an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
The menu is a delightful celebration of fresh seafood and local ingredients, and an array of signature cocktails, each crafted to enhance your dining experience while you take in the picturesque scenery of the waterfront property.
Papa Joe’s offers a distinctive menu that showcases both local seafood and premium meats. Highlights include: Not Yo Average Tuna Nachos, Creekstone Farms Churrasco and the Plantain Crusted Chicken. The Everglades Style Triple Tail was fresh and expertly prepared with unique ingredients.
These dishes, combined with signature cocktails such as the PJ’s Sunset, Goldrush and Papa’s Pain Pillar and the stunning sunset views, make Papa Joe’s a standout dining destination in the Florida Keys.
Papa Joe’s is not just about the food and views; it’s also about history and community. Owned by Captain Charles Hertel, who has deep roots in the area, the property has been transformed from its original incarnation as Fowler’s Fish Camp, established in 1938. Charles, inspired by his parents George and Dorothy Hertel—founders of the Islamorada Fish Company—has revived this historic property with the help of partners Bob Lee and Mica Perry. Together, they’ve created a modern destination that honors the rich history of the Florida Keys.
Whether you’re visiting for the food, stunning sunsets, or the charming history, Papa Joe’s Waterfront promises a memorable dining experience in a truly stunning location.
For more detailed information and to view the full menu, you can visit their official website here.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On June - 27 - 2024
From the moment I received the adorable custom Cîroc rolling suitcase, complete with a bright yellow passport book and a bottle of Cîroc’s fabulous new Limonata vodka, I knew we were in for something special. It was more than just an invitation; it was a promise of an unforgettable evening.
Arriving at the dock to board the SeaFair mega yacht, the air was thick with anticipation and the scent of citrus. Every detail had been meticulously planned, from the golden glow of the lemon-themed, summery decor that exuded effortless elegance, to the stylish crowd, it felt like stepping into a scene from a postcard—the kind that makes you wish summer would last forever.
Onboard, guests sipped on refreshing cocktails, the Limonata vodka adding a zesty twist to creative cocktails. Conversations flowed as easily as the drinks, with laughter punctuating the warm night air. The Cîroc team had outdone themselves, turning a simple product launch into a night of magic and memories.
In celebration of the summer solstice, the party’s theme was “Escape with Flavor” for a spectacular evening. The luxurious SeaFair which departed downtown Miami in the late afternoon, provided the perfect backdrop for the first official sunset of summer.
Stylish guests were treated to an array of expertly crafted Limonata cocktails that highlighted the refreshing citrus notes of Cîroc Limonata. The food options included gourmet bites and a lavish buffet. The sun-soaked deck was the ideal setting for guests to relax, mingle, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
As the sun began to set, the vibe became electric, with top DJs spinning high-energy sets, and Afro-global pop sensation, Amaarae’s live performance. Her unique blend of Afro-pop rhythms and soulful melodies captivated the audience, turning the party into an unforgettable summer escape.
There’s nothing quite like viewing the Miami skyline from the water while sipping fabulous cocktails and dancing to great music- as day turns into night.
After the yacht party, guests were shuttled via luxury coach to 1-800-Lucky in Wynwood for an after-party that lasted into the wee hours. Cîroc sure knows how to throw a summer party. Every sip of those vibrant Limonata cocktails hit just right, and the yacht deck was the perfect hangout spot to soak up the sun, make new friends, and feel the festive buzz.
As I raised my glass, toasting to the start of summer, I couldn’t help but think that sometimes, it’s the little things—the thoughtful touches, the attention to detail—that turn an ordinary event into an extraordinary experience. Cheers to Cîroc for capturing the essence of summer in a bottle and reminding us of the many reasons why summer is our favorite season.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On June - 11 - 2024
InterContinental Miami celebrates summer inviting hotel guests and visitors to experience the Summer Soirée. The experience begins upon arrival at the hotel, with a summer themed playlist providing a soundtrack to summer – one that can be downloaded via QR code by all guests.
For visitors, the Summer Soirée vibe is attainable via two special rooms packages – Tropical Tranquility and Beach Bliss. Tropical Tranquility invites hotel guests to enjoy a DayLifeCabana poolside, stellar bay and city views, and a luxurious experience on the InterCon’s fifth floor pool deck, while Beach Bliss extends an invitation to exclusive beach access with two chairs and an umbrella on Miami Beach for all InterContinental Hotel guests booking the package.
Pending availability, DayLife Cabanas are available for hotel guests to book separately or via Resort Pass if not staying at the hotel. Soak up the sun, take in the bay and enjoy a luxury poolside experience. On the weekends, add in a DJ spinning cool tunes and chilled lemongrass scented hand towels.
Additionally, there are several activations that extend the Summer Soirée theme throughout the property. Back in the hotel lobby, Thursdays through Saturdays the Ketel One Botanicals Cart will offer specially priced, perfectly crafted botanical and herb influenced cocktails and mocktails from 4PM – 6PM as the perfect pregame to a summer night out on the town.
Even our four legged friends can get in on the summer fun! On Wednesday, June 26, Paws Patio™ – the weekly doggie networker that takes place every Wednesday evening from 5PM to 7PM – will serve as the location for the Dog Days of Summer Soirée. Experience a tail-waggin’ good time with your furry friend and beat the heat with a doggie pool, sprinklers and more to help keep things cool for a pawsomeplay date. The open-air event begins at 5PM and is free and open to the public. Water bowls are on hand for all canines, while adults can enjoy Dirty Dog Martinis, Mutt Mules and other libations from the cash bar.
Club InterContinental hotel guests who book certain Club level rooms can also enjoy several special activations just for them as part of the soirée – with an invitation to craft their own signature summer cocktails at the Club Lounge. On Fridays and Saturdays from 5PM to 7PM, the interactive DIY Happy Hour will feature Ketel One Botanical Vodkas and a garnish station. All guestsmust be 21 or older.
Summer Soirée at InterContinental Miami is currently underway and will run through Sunday, September 1. InterContinental Miami is located at 100 Chopin Plaza in downtown Miami. For more information and to see all current offers, please visit www.icmiamihotel.com/summer-soiree; Telephone: (305) 577-1000. Follow on Instagram: @InterConMiami
