An Intimate Philanthropic Evening Honoring Veronica Bocelli

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 10 - 2026ADD COMMENTS

In support of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, an intimate and distinguished gathering was held in celebration of Veronica Bocelli’s birthday — honoring her leadership, elegance, and unwavering commitment to the foundation’s global humanitarian and educational initiatives.

Hosted by Alejandro Grimaldi and produced by Rose Thorn Productions, the private evening convened an esteemed circle of cultural leaders and philanthropists, including Andrea Bocelli, Veronica Bocelli, Alejandro Grimaldi, Evander Holyfield, Navan Twins, Rose Thorn, and Kavita Channé, alongside additional distinguished supporters united in advancing the foundation’s mission.

To kick off the evening’s food and wine experience, guests were welcomed through the vision and impact of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, with an inspiring performance by students from Young Musicians Unite — a powerful tribute to the transformative reach of music education.

Following this moving opening, Andrea Bocelli delivered a breathtaking performance from a magnificent Steinway & Sons grand piano, setting a tone of emotional resonance and artistic excellence.

Guests then transitioned into a refined culinary and wine experience featuring Sip Channé, signature pours of Dobel Tequila, and The Only Caviar, complemented by an elevated dining presentation by Rosa Negra.

The candlelit atmosphere felt both grand and intimate — an evening where artistry, generosity, and community converged in meaningful support of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation.

The result was a celebration that transcended a birthday — a gathering defined by purpose, legacy, and enduring impact.

Campari Invited us to Come Party

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 10 - 2026ADD COMMENTS
Campari Aperitivo at Torno Súbito

Campari brought its signature aperitivo culture to Miami this March with the arrival of Campari Spritz Square, an immersive experience centered around its iconic cocktail, the Campari Spritz.

Known for its vibrant red color and distinctly bitter profile, the Campari Spritz has long been a symbol of the Italian aperitivo ritual—simple, elegant, and designed to be savored. The brand’s “Stay Bitter” message carried through the experience, encouraging a more refined, intentional way of enjoying the moment.

Following a successful debut in New York City in 2025—where tickets sold out almost immediately—Campari expanded the concept to new markets, with Miami as its next destination.

Miami Design District Takeover

From March 21–22, Campari Spritz Square took over the Miami Design District, transforming the neighborhood into a relaxed, multi-venue aperitivo experience including Avant Gallery and illesteva. Each space offered its own interpretation of the brand, blending art, retail, and hospitality into a cohesive, walkable experience.

The format was intentionally flexible—guests were able to move freely between venues, explore at their own pace, and engage with the brand in a more organic way.

At the center of the Miami activation was Torno Subito, which anchored the culinary experience throughout the weekend. 

Aperitivo, The Torno Way

The celebration began with an aperitivo-style gathering on Thursday, where the mood leaned more intimate—setting the tone ahead of the larger weekend takeover. Guests were introduced to the Campari Spritz in its most natural setting: early evening, light bites, and a rhythm that encouraged lingering rather than rushing.

What distinguished the experience was the food. A series of paired bites—thoughtfully developed by the Torno Subito culinary team under the guidance of Massimo Bottura—complemented the bitterness and brightness of the spritz. The menu reflected Bottura’s signature balance of tradition and playfulness, translating classic Italian aperitivo flavors into something more contemporary and tailored to Miami.

Sunday Brunch, Reimagined

By Sunday, the experience shifted into a more relaxed daytime format. The brunch at Torno Subito offered a continuation of the aperitivo concept, reinterpreted through a late-morning lens.

Guests returned for a seated experience that included Campari Spritz pairings alongside a bespoke menu of bites—again created by the Torno team with Bottura’s influence guiding the direction. The approach remained consistent: simple in format, but precise in execution, with each element designed to complement the cocktail rather than compete with it.

Across both moments, Torno Subito reinforced the essence of aperitivo culture—less about a single drink or dish, and more about the experience of slowing down, socializing, and letting the evening (or afternoon) unfold naturally.

Looking Ahead

Campari Spritz Square will continue its expansion with a stop in Los Angeles this June, bringing the same concept to Silver Lake.

The Campari Spritz

At the center of it all was the Campari Spritz—straightforward and balanced.

Ingredients

• 2 parts Campari

• 3 parts Prosecco

• 1 part soda water

• Ice

• Orange slice

Method

• Build over ice in a wine glass

• Garnish with a fresh orange slice

The 2026 collection from Miraclesuit proves that swimwear can be as sculpting as it is stylish. Known for its innovative Miratex® fabric that smooths, shapes and supports, the brand’s latest designs deliver signature confidence with modern resort glamour. 

This season features striking jewel tones, bold aquatic hues and nature-inspired prints, paired with sleek silhouettes that flatter every curve. From elegant one-pieces and tankinis to breezy kimonos, pareos and caftan cover-ups, the collection blends fashion and function effortlessly. Designed for all-day comfort with built-in support and strategic draping, Miraclesuit’s 2026 swimwear promises the ultimate beachside transformation—helping women look and feel their best from poolside lounging to sunset cocktails.

For more information visit: https://www.miraclesuit.com

Executive Retail Shops Hosts World of Wonder at Casa Neos

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On March - 8 - 2026ADD COMMENTS

Executive Retail Shops brought global glamour to the waterfront at Casa Neos for the second annual World of Wonder, transforming the venue into a series of immersive destinations celebrating the future of luxury travel retail.

More than 320 guests attended the evening of curated experiences featuring premium spirits, fragrance and indulgent sweets. Among the crowd were Bravo personalities Erin Lichy and Abe Lichy alongside Miami’s own Kiki Barth, creating a lively Bravo crossover moment.

The trio made their way through the evening’s installations — posing for photos at the Mediterranean-inspired Vespa scene, trying their luck at the roulette table and eventually taking over the DJ booth as Abe spun music for the crowd. Later, he stepped behind the bar to pour tastings of his mezcal brand, Mezcalum.

Erin Lichy & Kiki Barth

Guests explored immersive environments inspired by global destinations. Spirit of the Sea transported attendees to the Mediterranean with coastal décor, a vintage Vespa photo moment and a vibrant Mediterranean buffet. Nearby, House of Smoke recreated the energy of Old Havana where guests enjoyed Old Fashioneds by Angel’s Envy and premium pours including Rémy XO, Gold Bar and Johnnie Walker Blue while gathering around the roulette table.

Michael and Mary Jo Shore

The evening concluded at Le Salon Sucré, a Parisian-style confectionery lounge serving flambé desserts alongside espresso martinis made with Bacardi’s Patrón XO Café and Licor 43 Carajillos provided by Monarq.

Throughout the evening, guests also sampled Dom Pérignon, Teremana Tequila, Hendrick’s Gin, Zacapa No. 23 and Rémy Martin 1738, while a Jägermeister Cold Brew station served chilled coffee cocktails. A high-energy fire performer became one of the most Instagrammable moments of the night, while live music from Miami artist Riamonae and her band kept the waterfront venue buzzing.

World of Wonder brought together tastemakers, industry leaders and media to experience Executive Retail Shops’ vision for the future of travel retail — rooted in storytelling, discovery and elevated experiences for private aviation travelers.

For more information, visit executiveretailshops.com.

Carnaval on the Mile Returns this Weekend

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On March - 8 - 2026ADD COMMENTS

Carnaval on the Mile returns March 7–8, 2026, transforming Miracle Mile into a vibrant, mile-long celebration of music, art, and culture. Presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, the free outdoor event features three live concert stages with international and award-winning performers, a curated showcase of fine art, crafts, photography, and jewelry, and a variety of culinary experiences. Families can also enjoy the Kidz Nook presented by Academica, offering interactive programming and the inaugural Carnaval Miami Greatest Kids Show.

Confirmed performers include Puerto Rican conga duo Daniel Díaz and Jafet Murguía with their band Los Potritos, American soul-jazz favorites The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, trailblazing pianist and two-time Latin Grammy winner Tony Pérez, and Latin Grammy–winning violinist Daniela Padrón. This year’s poster artist is Maria Fernanda Vogel.

Giotto Maestro della Pizza has been considered one of Miami Beach’s most cherished Italian destinations by locals and tourists alike. For over a decade, Giotto has been known for its commitment to traditional Italian cuisine and warm, family-driven hospitality.

True to its name—Giotto Maestro della Pizza, meaning “Giotto, Master of the Pizza”—the restaurant reflects a deep dedication to the craft of traditional pizza-making. Originally a humble neighborhood pizzeria, the restaurant was thoughtfully elevated in 2019 when Silvia Accatino and her son, Giovanni Moretti, moved from Torino, Italy to take over the space. They preserved the restaurant’s neighborhood charm while infusing it with their culinary heritage and focus on authenticity.

Mother and son partners: Silvia Accatino and Giovanni Moretti

“We’ve always believed Italian dining doesn’t have to be formal or expensive to be meaningful,” says Giovanni Moretti. “We wanted to show the South Beach community that authenticity comes from tradition, hospitality, and quality—not from formality or flash.”

Central to this vision is Silvia Accatino, Giovanni’s mother, who oversees the culinary program and brings generations of family recipes to life. Her hands-on approach ensures each dish reflects the nuances and techniques passed down through generations.

“Authentic Italian dining is about far more than the recipes on paper,” Silvia says. “It’s in the small gestures, the techniques, and the care passed down through generations. Every family has its own touch—which makes every dish completely unique.”

We were delighted by Silvia’s warmth and hospitality as she shared the care she takes in selecting the beautifully colored plates, tiles, and décor throughout the restaurant. She was so enchanting that we would have loved for her to sit down and share a meal with us.

The menu offers a comprehensive journey through Italian cuisine, from over a dozen pizzas like Capricciosa, Sfiziosa and our favorite, Truffle Marbella, to carefully selected pastas and signature kitchen favorites. Silvia prepares Giotto’s lasagna, which takes two full days to make; one of the best eggplant parms we’ve ever tasted, and all desserts from scratch, including tiramisu, ensuring every dish carries the authenticity, care, and warmth that define the restaurant.

Giotto also offers beer, wine, and spritz selections, perfect for pairing with any meal. Guests can enjoy happy hour Monday–Saturday, featuring specialty-priced bites alongside beer, wine, and spritzes. On Tuesdays, the restaurant highlights a Margherita pizza special for only $10, adding another reason to gather with friends or family midweek.

With just 35 seats, Giotto’s intimate setting fosters a sense of familiarity between guests and staff, creating an atmosphere more akin to an Italian home than a restaurant. Reservations are available by phone only, emphasizing the personal connection with the local community.

Giotto is available for private events, offering both indoor and outdoor seating during business hours or after hours, making it ideal for intimate gatherings, celebrations, and culinary experiences.

Since Silvia and Giovanni took over, Giotto has become a bridge between Italy’s rich culinary heritage and South Beach’s vibrant local community. It remains a unique place in a dynamic city where quality and authenticity are requisite to a restaurant’s longstanding success.

For more information, visit: https://giottomaestrodellapizza.com

(305) 532-1138

5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

959 West Avenue, Suite #2

Miami Beach, FL 33139