There’s a new must-visit spot in Brickell—and it’s bringing serious flavor with a side of soul. Welcome to TAP Brickell, the vibrant new café that stands for Tapioca Sandwiches, Açaí Bowls, and Pão de Queijo—and serves up a fresh take on Brazilian comfort food with a wellness-forward twist.

Founded on a deep love for Brazil’s culinary roots, TAP is all about real ingredients, bold flavors, and feel-good vibes. The menu is stacked with tasty choices: egg wraps, paninis, smoothies, fresh juices, and rich Brazilian coffee—all made with care and crafted to energize.

But let’s talk signatures. TAP’s Tapioca Sandwiches—made with cassava flour imported straight from Brazil—are naturally gluten-free and totally crave-worthy. They put a Brazilian spin on American favorites, like the BaconEggNCheese or Chicken Club, with a texture that’s both crisp and chewy.

Then there’s the Pão de Queijo, Brazil’s beloved cheese bread, baked in-house with a special blend of mozzarella, Swiss, and parmesan. Available in three flavors—traditional, spicy, and pesto—these warm, cheesy bites are basically irresistible.

The Açaí Bowls are another star. Sourced sustainably from the Amazon rainforest (yes, really), the açaí is rich, smooth, and loaded with antioxidants. Toppings include homemade vegan granola, coconut flakes, cocoa nibs, chia seeds, passion fruit, mango, strawberries, bananas, and blueberries. It’s the kind of bowl you eat with your camera first.

TAP is led by brothers Pedro and Cleo Uchôa, who bring their Rio de Janeiro roots—and a shared passion for Brazilian food—to every detail.

Their commitment to quality goes beyond food. TAP’s motto, “Eat Well, Do Good, Live Better,” is reflected in its eco-conscious mission. The restaurant uses biodegradable PLA cups, prioritizes sustainable sourcing, and collaborates with local partners to give back to both the Miami and Brazilian communities.

The space is as much a cultural experience as it is a café. From hand-painted palm fronds and oversized umbrellas outside, to vibrant murals inside by Brazilian graffiti artist Acme (@universoacme), every detail invites guests into Brazil’s colorful world. The walls are also adorned with stunning photographs by visual artist Nino Franco (@ninofrancoo), showcasing everything from sun-drenched beaches to lush jungles. A striking green wall over rustic brick, Brazilian music, and complimentary Wi-Fi complete the atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a power breakfast, post-workout fuel, or your new favorite neighborhood spot, TAP delivers with warmth, flavor, and flair.

TAP Brickell is located at 1250 S Miami Avenue, #105, open daily from 8am to 8pm.
To explore the full menu and learn more, visit tapnyc.com or follow @eat_tap on Instagram.

There’s a certain thrill in stumbling upon a restaurant that not only lives up to its hype—but manages to redefine what you thought was possible at its price point. Tucked into an unsuspecting area of St. Pete’s 4th Street corridor, Jay Luigi isn’t just another Italian-inspired eatery—it’s a revelation. With top-tier ingredients, bold, inventive flavors, and price tags that make you do a double-take, Jay Luigi is quietly staging a culinary coup against South Florida’s priciest trattorias.

The atmosphere is unfussy but thoughtfully designed—a breezy, modern space with a colorful Cuban tile wall, decorative metal ceiling, blonde wood, and a communal energy that feels like a dinner party where everyone’s invited. Between the no-fuss vibe, design-forward space, and friendly service, Jay Luigi embodies equal parts trattoria-chic and Florida cool. But really, it’s the food that’s the star.  It’s what happens when premium ingredients, thoughtful execution, and bold flavors converge. When the food arrives, it hits you: this place is different.

Let’s start with the bread. The Daily Bread is a must: pillowy-soft with the kind of golden edge that crackles when torn, served alongside a trio of dips that deserve their own applause. The pomodoro fondue is velvety and savory; the whipped butter with olive oil feels like luxury on a spoon; and the honey ricotta straddles the line between appetizer and dessert. You’ll want to order extra bread. (Go for it.) The whipped ricotta crostini—airy, creamy, and spiked with a drizzle of chili oil and honey—lands with a whisper and a punch. Simple, gorgeous, unforgettable.

Now, meet the MVPs.

Start with the meatballs. Nestled in that luscious house pomodoro and showered with Grana Padano, they are, no joke, the best we’ve had this side of Florence. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and with a slow-cooked depth—these meatballs will haunt your cravings in the best way.

Next up: Jay’s Caesar salad is a game changer. Crisp romaine, radicchio, grated Grana Padano, house croutons, Marcona almonds, and dried cherries. The crunch, the sweet bite—it’s Caesar, elevated and totally addictive.

Let’s talk mains. The crispy chicken Milanese is the showstopper: a panko-crusted cutlet, pounded thin and fried golden, perched atop a tangle of lemony arugula. It’s light, rich, crunchy, and satisfying all at once—the kind of dish that makes you fall in love with chicken again. Add it to any salad or enjoy it on its own.

The pasta lineup delivers in spades. The Drunken Mushroom is a must, and the Vodka Rigatoni is creamy with a whisper of heat. The Limoncello Pasta is citrusy, unexpected, and brilliant. And the Alfredo? Decadent, with a silky texture that clings lovingly to every noodle. All pastas are made with water, flour, and soul.

If it’s pizza you crave, you’re in the right place. The dough is house-made, and you choose your style: Neapolitan or Roman. The Jess Knows Best is a flavor bomb of goat cheese, truffle honey, mushrooms, caramelized onion, and thyme. The Queen Stella—a purist’s Margherita with fresh basil and San Marzano pomodoro—reminds you how divine simplicity can be.

One of the biggest surprises on the menu? The Cauli Rice Bowls. These veggie-forward powerhouses are layered with roasted proteins, zippy house sauces, and herb-packed flavor profiles so deeply satisfying, you genuinely forget there’s no pasta involved. The standout is The Fungi: a lush mix of roasted mushrooms, microgreens, and cauliflower rice, drizzled with truffle for that earthy, luxurious finish. It’s comfort food meets spa food—and somehow, it works like magic.

Lunch specials here are an absolute steal: a half sandwich with any house-made soup or salad—for under $12. The sandwiches—especially the Milanese—are worth a midday detour. A panko chicken cutlet layered with arugula, EVOO, and tomato, tucked into focaccia and served with your choice of soup, salad, or chips. The Chicken Parm, Meatball, and Italiano (mortadella, prosciuttini, provolone) are also fantastic.

Jay Luigi doesn’t try to be trendy or flashy. It doesn’t have to be. With a menu that fuses casual comfort and culinary finesse, it’s redefining what fast-fine Italian can be. Jay Luigi manages what so few restaurants can: serving food that feels expensive—with flavor profiles and ingredient quality rivaling the best Italian kitchens in South Florida—yet priced so reasonably you might glance at the check and wonder if they forgot something.

They didn’t. At Jay Luigi, everything is made with intention. It’s refined yet casual, indulgent yet affordable, familiar but never boring. The flavors stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best Italian restaurants in South Florida.

This isn’t just one of St. Pete’s best Italian spots—it’s one of the best in the state.

Jay Luigi

3201 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

(727) 228-9931

jayluigi.com

Perry’s Porch, the newest concept from Seed & Feed Hospitality Group (behind local favorites Trophy Fish, Mandarin Hide, and El Cap), has arrived to St. Pete’ Pier in full, fabulous force—serving up bold flavors, maximalist design, and a cocktail list that’s practically a local love letter.

But Perry’s Porch is more than just a place to eat. It’s a tribute to C. Perry Snell, the visionary who helped shape the city’s architectural soul. Blending timeless design with a modern twist, the space reflects the city’s evolution: elegant, welcoming, a little whimsical, and always effortlessly cool.

“As lifelong residents of St. Pete, we’re proud to contribute to the city’s continued growth and vibrancy with Perry’s Porch,” said Ryan Griffin, co-owner of Seed & Feed. “The St. Pete Pier is an iconic location, and we’re honored to be part of its story. We’re looking forward to creating a space that feels welcoming and reflective of our city’s charm.”

The Vibe: Stylish and Bustling, Yet Relaxed

Located beside the St. Petersburg Museum of History, Perry’s Porch offers indoor and outdoor seating with sweeping views of the bay and skyline. It’s a space made for lingering—whether you stop in for a quick bite or settle into a long, languid meal with friends and cocktails as the sun dips low. It’s stylish and bustling, yet relaxed, like a well-dressed friend who never makes you feel underdressed.

The interiors are just as inviting: wall-to-wall artwork, brass animal heads, and cheeky brass monkeys balancing fruit baskets across the bar. It’s polished but playful—elevated design with a sense of humor. And with live music drifting from the terrace throughout the day, there’s a rhythm here that draws you in—and makes you want to stay awhile.

The Menu: Coastal, Classic, and Comforting

Perry’s Porch is a day-to-night destination, beginning with locally roasted Kahwa coffee and fresh-baked pastries in the morning, and rolling into sandwiches, salads, and full-flavored dinner plates by evening. Don’t miss the one-of-a-kind gelato cart, parked near the entrance like a wink to childhood memories—with rotating flavors served to both diners and curious passersby.

While everything on the menu leans fresh and flavorful, there are two standouts: the chargrilled octopus—tender, smoky, and unmissable—and the burger, a perfectly seasoned, charred-to-perfection classic that feels indulgent without being over the top.

The Cocktails: Sip the Spirit of St. Pete

Created in collaboration with the team at Mandarin Hide, Perry’s Porch’s beverage program is both playful and polished. Each cocktail is named for a local landmark and thoughtfully built for flavor, flair, and fun. Whether you’re a neat spirits drinker or a fruit-forward fan, there’s something you’ll love.

• 🍸 Sunken Gardens: A botanical beauty made with gin, elderflower, cucumber, and lime, with just a touch of basil syrup and soda. Light, fragrant, and garden-fresh—served tall with an edible flower crown.
• 🍹 Pink Streets Margarita: A tangy, pink-hued twist on a classic, mixing blanco tequila, rosé aperitivo, grapefruit and lime, and a hint of hibiscus syrup. Tart, crisp, and as pretty as its namesake neighborhood.
• 🥃 Derby Lane: Dark, smooth, and smoky—this one’s all about smoked bourbon, amaro, and orange bitters, served over a single cube with a flamed orange peel. Sexy and contemplative, like a good mystery novel.
• ✨ Golden Dragon Martini: The showstopper. Vodka, lychee liqueur, pineapple, and a splash of bubbly, dusted with edible gold. Served in a coupe glass, it’s part drink, part crown jewel.
• 🍓 Strauberry Park: A playful twist on a whiskey sour, blending bourbon, strawberry syrup, lemon, and a frothy top of egg white. Finished with a pink peppercorn dusting for a sweet-meets-spice finish.
• 🌴 Jungle Prada: A tropical escape in a glass, made with dark rum, passionfruit, lime, and falernum, served over crushed ice and dressed like a tiki queen. You’ll want your camera for this one.

Each cocktail is crafted to be as transportive as the view—a flavor-driven celebration of the city’s soul, with just the right dose of mischief.

Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Our server was so friendly, we nearly invited her to pull up a chair—and she would’ve fit right in. That’s the Seed & Feed Hospitality Group difference: authentic warmth, effortless charm, and a feeling that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

Perry’s Porch

335 2nd Avenue NE

St. Petersburg, FL 33701

(Next to the St. Petersburg Museum of History on St. Pete Pier)

Phone: (727) 555‑1234

Website: www.perrys-porch.com

Instagram: @perrys_porch

Email: info@perrys-porch.com

Since quietly opening in 2023 at the ground level of Brickell City Centre, The Henry has become a neighborhood staple for those who appreciate classic dishes with a modern twist, warm hospitality, and a touch of understated glamour. Brought to Miami by eleven-time James Beard Award nominee Sam Fox—founder of Fox Restaurant Concepts—this all-day American Brasserie brings thoughtful design, approachable luxury, and impeccable execution to one of the city’s most fast-paced districts.

The setting is striking yet inviting. Located on the corner of Miami Avenue and 8th Street, The Henry seats 260 guests in a stylish space of white marble, caramel leather, warm woods, and cascading greenery. Whether you’re slipping into a banquette for brunch or meeting friends for cocktails at the 68-seat bar, the mood is effortlessly polished. Even the ventanita, open from 7 a.m., offers a chic grab-and-go moment for coffee and pastries.

Executive Chef Darren Thompson leads the kitchen with a menu that reflects both precision and personality. With a background that includes the legendary Commander’s Palace in New Orleans, his Southern roots are unmistakable in dishes like the signature crab cake—delicately crisped and served with a house remoulade that’s rich, complex, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and elevated.

That same finesse carries through to dessert, where Thompson’s brown butter cake is rich with nutty warmth and the bread pudding is spiced, soulful, and perfectly plated. His dynamic presence is felt in every course, making even familiar favorites feel inspired.

The cocktail program, too, is thoughtfully curated. Sip the Thai Grapefruit Smash for something bright and zesty with subtle floral notes, or the Desert Bird, a tropical-meets-smoky blend of mezcal, pineapple, and lime that’s as balanced as it is bold. Of course, the Spicy Margarita—shaken with just the right amount of heat—remains a crowd favorite.

What elevates The Henry beyond its chic ambiance and well-executed menu is the service: gracious, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Whether you’re a first-timer or a weekend regular, the team makes every visit feel like an occasion.

From early breakfasts to stylish dinners and everything in between, The Henry continues to strike that rare balance of casual elegance and culinary excellence—firmly securing its place as a go-to in the Brickell dining scene.

The Henry – Miami

Brickell City Centre

701 S Miami Ave, Suite 131-B

Miami, FL 33131

(786) 899-7370

www.thehenryrestaurant.com

Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner

☕ Ventanita open from 7:00 a.m. daily

Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Amid the bustle of Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile, La Pata Gorda offers something rare: an Ecuadorian seafood restaurant that feels as refined as it is rooted. Born from a beloved concept in Ecuador, this stateside outpost honors its culinary heritage with thoughtful execution, unique ingredients, and an authentic, approachable atmosphere.

The restaurant draws a loyal following from Miami’s Ecuadorian community—diners who know the cuisine intimately and come here for a taste of home. Yet its appeal is expansive. From first-time visitors to devoted regulars, guests are drawn into an immersive dining experience that blends coastal Ecuadorian tradition with a sophisticated Miami sensibility.

La Pata Gorda specializes in Ecuador’s bold, seafood-forward flavors—where freshness and simplicity meet depth and technique. Several standout dishes bring the country’s coastal identity into sharp, delicious focus.

• Jipijapa-Style Ceviche: An iconic Ecuadorian ceviche: shrimp, octopus and the catch of the day with roasted peanuts sauce and citrus marinade
• Seafood Chicharrón
  A golden medley of calamari, shrimp, and fish, served with chifles (plantain chips) and a tangy carretillero sauce. Crisp, flavorful, and comforting.
• Crab & Shrimp Salad
  Delicately chilled and topped with roasted garlic mayo, chives, house sauce, and patacones—this dish is light but richly seasoned.
• Mangrove Crab Claws
  A signature offering, served whole and paired with warm melted butter. The sweetness of Ecuador’s cangrejo de manglar is unmatched, making this dish a standout indulgence.
• Carapacho Croquetas
  Crafted from Ecuadorian mangrove crab and subtly sweet plantains, these croquettes are lightly fried and served with a creamy dipping sauce. Elegant and slightly playful.
• Grilled Conchas
  A refined coastal delicacy: fresh black clams topped with slices of tender Spanish octopus, finished with a delicate, slightly spicy glaze. Smoky, briny, and deeply satisfying.

For guests looking to explore a range of the kitchen’s best work, the La Pata Gorda Platter is a must. This tasting menu brings together:

• Jipijapa-style ceviche
• Seafood chicharrón
• Crab and shrimp salad
• Signature mangrove crab claws

Balanced in portion and beautifully plated, the platter is an ideal entry point for those discovering Ecuadorian cuisine or seeking to share multiple specialties at the table.

La Pata Gorda blends rustic charm with refined design—think exposed wood, ambient lighting, and nautical touches without cliché. The mood is sophisticated yet warm, with a sense of ease that invites lingering over a second cocktail or dessert.

During televised Ecuadorian national soccer matches, the dining room becomes a gathering space for the community. There’s energy and enthusiasm, but the experience remains polished: more celebratory than chaotic.

The overwhelmingly Ecuadorian clientele speaks volumes about the restaurant’s authenticity. This is where those who know the cuisine best come to reconnect—with familiar flavors, with friends, and with the rituals of home.

La Pata Gorda is located at: 232 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; telephone number: (305) 456-5085.

@lapatagorda_us

The 2025 SOBWFF: Mike’s Amazing Burger Bash presented by Shweid and Sons was everything we hoped for—mouthwatering burgers, incredible energy, and well-fed food lovers. With the sound of sizzling grills in the air, the ocean breeze rolling in, and an all-star lineup of chefs bringing their best, this year’s event was truly one for the books.

Some of the most talented chefs from across the country (and beyond!) went head-to-head, serving up next-level creations packed with bold flavors and creative twists. The competition was fierce, the bites were unforgettable, and honestly choosing winners was no easy task!

And the Winners Are…

Schweid & Sons® The Very Best Burger Award
Skinny Louie took home the top honor and a $2,500 prize for their Wagyu Louie—a mouthwatering combination of double smashed wagyu beef patties, melted smoked gouda, truffle aioli, and pickled jalapeños, all stacked on a buttery brioche bun. Simply put, a burger lover’s dream!

Mike’s Amazing® People’s Choice Award
The fans have spoken! La Birra Bar from Argentina won over the crowd and took home a $5,000 check for their Smash Golden Chimichurri Burger— two smashed patties, American cheese, red onions, and a special Argentinian chimichurri mayo that had festivalgoers coming back for more.

Idaho Potato® Best Side Dish Award
Because a great burger deserves a great side! La Birra Bar also won for their “Smashbrowns”—crispy, loaded hash browns with a zesty lime pepper seasoning that perfectly complemented their award-winning burger.

Burger Bash wasn’t just about the food—it was about the experience. Ice-cold drinks, live music, and an electric atmosphere made it an unforgettable night of celebration, bringing together food lovers from all over.

#SOBEWFF #BurgerBash2025 #Mike’sAmazing #SchweidAndSons #LaBirraBar #SkinnyLouie #FoodieHeaven