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.

Cîroc Celebrates the Summer Solstice aboard the SeaFair 

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On June - 27 - 2024ADD COMMENTS

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.

Some Summer Fun Raves

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On June - 13 - 2024ADD COMMENTS

By: Maryanne Salvat

With summer in full swing and temperatures rising, weekend getaways and happy hours with family and friends are sure to make for great times. To make sure you are fully prepared for what the summer heat has to offer, here are a few of my raves for this season.

Sun protection is essential, and the SAINT JANE Beauty Body Ritual Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a must. This body skincare and sun protection multitasker is a clean hydrating luxury body lotion that protects skin with its SPF 30. Thoughtfully made with Sacred Lotus, Orchid Flower, Passionflower and Green Tea, the soft texture beautifully calms and soothes skin.  SAINT JANE Beauty Body Ritual Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen provides your body with essential vitamins A, C and E, and works to visibly brighten dark spots and strengthen your skin barrier.  

 Another fave is the The Outset Hydrasheer™ 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.  The Outset is a clean skincare brand co-founded by Scarlett Johansson and Kate Foster. The formula’s light texture is suncare meets skincare. This 100% mineral SPF 30 defends against premature signs of aging by shielding skin from UVA/UVB rays. A blend of powerful botanicals, including Snow Mushroom and the signature Hyaluroset Complex, help soothe and moisturize to complement any skincare routine.

The Sara Happ Lip Scrub is wonderful addition to any post beach beauty routine. This lip scrub eliminates dry, flaky skin, immediately leaving lips soft and supple.

Iris & Romeo Lash Up Peptide Thickening Mascara is a great way to enhance your natural, beachy, glow. Inspired by Founder Michele Gough Baril’s wellness journey living with a free-roaming herd of horses in Northern California, this jet-black mascara draws its inspiration from the Friesian Horse. With a dark black coat, a strong but agile body, and thick wavy mane it represents the beautiful balance of nature and performance, replicating it in a clean mascara. The patented wax blend wraps each lash in a strong but flexible coat, keeping them long and lifted from morning to night. 

Sun cover goes along with enjoying all the wonderful activities that Summer has to offer. COR Straw Sun Hats are a great way to keep the sun out of your face. This comfortable straw sun hat is fitted with an interior flex-fit sweat wicking headband. With an assortment of cloth printed brims, it’s the perfect accessory for sunny beach days.

For those hot days on the Pickleball court, Mental Game Hat by Courtgirl has developed a translucent brim that provides UV protection yet allows you to see the ball while you play. The snug bungee cord in the back allows the hat to be adjustable and doubles as an emergency ponytail holder.

And finally for those gorgeous summer sunsets, Sunshine Punch cocktails, the ready-to-serve rum, citrus cream cocktail is sure to bring fun to any gathering.  Some delish concoctions include:

The Sunburn: Mix Sunshine Punch, pineapple juice, and coconut rum in an ice-filled shaker. Pour into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with an orange wedge.S

Partly Sunny: Mix equal parts Sunshine Punch and sparkling water in an ice-filled Collins glass. Garnish with mint and an orange twist.

With these items in your beach tote, the summer months will surely be unforgettable.

InterContinental Miami’s Summer Soirée

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On June - 11 - 2024ADD COMMENTS

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 BlissTropical 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 WednesdayJune 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 guests must 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

ILIA Beauty’s biggest sale of the year is here – the Friends & Family Sale is back starting TODAY

From June 5th to June 13th, enjoy 20% off all orders on iliabeauty.com. Orders over $125 get 25% off, and orders over $175 get 25% off plus a complimentary full-size True Skin Serum Concealer! ILIA VIPs get early access from June 3rd to June 4th and receive a complimentary Lip Wrap Reviving Mask with the purchase of the NEW Lip Sketch Hydrating Crayon.

 Stock up on the best-kept secret makeup formulas used by your favorite stars including Mandy Moore, Ayo Edebiri, and Gwyneth Paltrow. The secret to effortlessly glowing skin and makeup.

In the heart of Downtown Doral, Bombay Darbar has opened its newest location adding colorful flavors to this growing community. The beloved restaurant that has been a fan favorite since 2011 originated in Coconut Grove and has received rave reviews as one of the top Indian restaurants in South Florida.

On our visit we were treated to some of the most incredible dishes; every bite was an explosion of flavors.

To begin our journey, we enjoyed the Chili Chicken appetizer, crispy bite size chicken with fresh bell peppers in a tangy chili sauce, the Samosa Chaat, a deconstructed deliciousness served with fresh yogurt and mint, and the Saag Paneer, the traditional Indian cheese simmered in a mixture of fresh spinach, onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices.

For our main entrée, our wonderful server took it upon himself to order some of the house favorites. Our top choices were the Mango Chicken Curry, a boneless chicken cooked in delicious cashew sauce, mango puree and spices was exceptional and the Fish Goan Curry, an aromatic curry with a blend of spices, garlic, ginger and onion along with fresh tomato and coconut, with of side of Garlic Naan, traditional Indian flat bread topped with garlic and cilantro.

For dessert, and you must make room for dessert, we had the Kheer,
traditional Indian rice pudding that is made in-house, lightly sweet, garnished with sundried grapes, pistachio and cashew nuts. Absolutely fantastic.

The restaurant itself is quite a beauty with a grand Buddha that strikingly stands in the main dining room. The bar has an extensive menu of craft cocktails as well as wine and beer.

Bombay Darbar’s atmosphere and service will make for an unforgettable dining experience that will surely transport you and your tastebuds to a flavorful destination.

Bombay Darbar located in Downtown Doral Park at 8405 NW 53rd Street, Suite E101 and is open for lunch and dinner.

For more information visit: Bombay Darbar .

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