Global Water Brigades

Bulla Gastrobar and soon-to-be-opened Pisco Y Nazca are raising awareness and funds for Global Water Brigades, an international, non-profit organization constructing clean water systems in Nicaragua, Honduras and Ghana. The restaurants will be showing their support by serving bites at the 5th Annual Water Party MIA being held at The Four Seasons in Brickell on Friday, November 13 from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. The goal of the event is to raise $12,500 to benefit the community of El Hatillo, Nicaragua which is home to 67 families in need of clean water supply. To purchase tickets to the event visit: www.empowered.org/Water-Party-MIA-2015.

To build on the efforts by the Miami Water Party, Bulla will be donating $1 to the Global Water Brigades for every share their Facebook post promoting the Water Party event receives beginning the week of October 19. Pisco y Nazca will launch the campaign on their Facebook page on November 1st.

KLIMA Restaurant and Bar Debuts  Its Thanksgiving Day Feast

KLIMA Restaurant and Bar will debut its Thanksgiving Day specialty, prepared using Chef Rusti’s signature cooking techniques developed from his Barcelona roots. KLIMA’s Thanksgiving Day menu for locals, first-time visitors and familiar restaurant guests who are still looking for all the home-style delicacies that come with the classic Thanksgiving Day mealtime tradition, will not be disappointed with Chef Rusti’s Poulet Rouge with Foie entrée – described as a venerable heritage breed of chicken renowned for its rich flavor and thin skin that is cooked to a crisp perfection. Chef Rusti will be adding his own flavor delicacy of Foie to this dish along with potato parmentier, to make this main course plate a memorable Catalonian-style feast for a price of $36. This Thanksgiving Day specialty will be served for lunch between the hours of 12 Noon and 3:00pm or for dinner, between the hours of 6:00pm and 2:00am.  Additional plates that will be offered on the newly introduced lunch menu, include Fennel Vichysoisse with tubers,Cucumber and yoghurt curry and Mackerel with cauliflower and dill. Some popular favorites from KLIMA’s dinner entrée menu to choose from, include Wagyu Oxtail, Potato Parmentier and Red wine reduction ($36); Josper Lamb Shank with Potato Parmentier ($35); Veal Stuffed Paccheri, Porto and Parmigiano-Reggiano ($32); Comté cheese Ravioli ($28) and Black Cod, Potato and Vanilla coulis, savoy cabbage and chick-peas ($38), among many other choices that includes a wide selection from KLIMA’s Raw Bar and Tapas menus.

photo credit: justjared.com

Jennifer Lopez was seen partying at Casa Tua after the Fiesta Latina Concert at American Airlines Arena were she performed alongside Pitbull on Saturday night.

Also on Saturday, Marc Anthony gave a stellar performance at the Make A Wish Gala at the Hotel Intercontinental..

Antonio Banderas was at the Mandarin Oriental to discuss his new drama, The 33. Banderas was also seen at Zuma on a double date.

Also spotted at Zuma: Lewis Hamilton and MC Hammer, who enjoyed vegan dishes with a large group in the private room

Christian Vieri dined at Dolce Italian before the Champions League soccer match.

Philly native, Will Smith performed at new Brickell hotspot- El Tucan last week.

Jessica Alba recently spent a fun-filled evening with friends at Little Havana’s acclaimed bar/lounge, Ball and Chain.

Brazilian soccer star Ronaldinho Gaucho was seen at Bodega Taqueria y Tequila on South Beach.

Christian Slater and his wife dined with a group of friends at SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables over the weekend.

Paula Deen on stage at Valley Beach

Back in Philly:

Paula Deen charmed her fans at the Valley Forge Casino. She showed off her slim and trim physique while cooking up delicious recipes from her current cookbook Paula Deen Cuts the Fat. Deen, along with her husband Michael Groover, shared with the audience personal stories about her 42 pound weight loss, the amazing experience on Dancing with the Stars, and her battle with diabetes. Guests were then treated to a book signing and presentation at Valley Beach.

Creed stars Sylvester Stallone, Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thomson and the film’s writer/director Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station) joined Mayor Michael Nutter and Philadelphia Film Office Executive Director Sharon Pinkenson on the infamous “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a special press conference.

InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball Nightclub: On Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015, Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida and InterContinental Miami will celebrate the 21st Annual InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish Ball and InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish Ball Nightclub, presented by E11EVEN-LIV, with a Mythology theme inspired by ancient Greek gods and goddesses, epic tales, and heavenly bodies. Celebrated EDM DJ and producer Chuckie, who pioneered the rapidly proliferating Dirty Dutch sound, will headline the nightclub after-party with DJ Nathan Asher as the opening act and DJ Dirt as the closing act. Neiman Marcus Bal Harbour will also stage an elaborate runway show.

Tickets for the InterContinental® Miami Make-A-Wish Ball Nightclub are $120, but for those already attending the Ball prior, there is no charge. There will be a complimentary open bar and suitable evening attire is required.

MISO CHIC: A unique theatrical experience like nothing you’ve ever seen – the Miami Symphony Orchestra (MISO) has come together with America Developing Smiles (ADS) and Maman Fine Art to present MISO CHIC at the Adrienne Arsht Center on Tuesday, November 17, at 8 p.m., an inaugural event benefiting more than 3,400 children and youth of low-income levels. Proceeds will go towards educational centers and special programs by Asociación Damas Salecianas in Miami, Mexico, Nicaragua, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela and Dominican Republic

Together Eduardo Marturet, MISO’s music director and conductor, along with haute couture fashion designer Nicolas Felizola, will come together for a lavish orchestra and fashion show production, complete with a dramatic mix of classical compositions and award-winning film scores.

To purchase tickets, go to http://www.arshtcenter.org/.

The Deering Estate Foundation’s Wine On Harvest Moon

The Deering Estate Foundation’s Wine On Harvest Moon (WOHM), presented by South BMW, is back with a tantalizing theme of Spirits, Spells & American Lore, taking place at Deering Estate in Palmetto Bay. An enchanting evening under the moonlight at the historic bay-front property promises guests the macabre to the mysterious with haunting vignettes, chilling musical performances, contemporary art, and much more as they celebrate the allure of American folklore through the fine wine and spirits – and tasty chef-paired vittles – of the continental U.S. The event takes place Saturday, October 24 from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $150 for Deering Estate Foundation members and $175 for non-members. Attendees must be 21 or over. To purchase, call 305.235.1668 x263 or visit deeringestate.com/wine-on-harvest-moon/. All proceeds from this signature fundraising event benefit the Deering Estate Foundation.

 
FB KIDS FuntaineBOO Holloween Bash

A wicked fun time awaits youngsters at the legendary hotel for the FB KIDS FuntaineBOO Holloween Bash on Sunday, Oct. 25 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Little zombies and witches from ages 4 to 12 will have a haunting good time at this family friendly affair. Kids are invited to dress in their best costumes as they enjoy ghoulish activities such as Pin the Nose on the Jack-o-Lantern, an Eyeball Bounce and a Witch Pitch at this grueling Halloween event. Kiddies will also be enchanted by whimsical crafting like Halloween frame decorating, mini pumpkin decorating and sparkle tattoo applications as they jam to spooky beats. Don’t forget to pay a visit to Dracula’s Lair and the FuntaineBOO fortune teller for a look into your future. Children are also invited to pose for a photo in the Harvest Room to capture the grueling memories. Admission into the FB KIDS FuntaineBOO Holloween Bash is complimentary for hotel guests and $10.00 for non-hotel guests. For more information, visit fontainebleau.com/events. Costumes are welcome and encouraged. Visit or howl at 305 538-2000, ext. 3460 for additional information.

 
3030 Ocean at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

On Monday, October 26, the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa will welcome back its critically-acclaimed restaurant 3030 Ocean, following an extensive three-month renovation. Now at the helm of the kitchen, where her career first began, newly-appointed 3030 Ocean Executive Chef Adrienne Grenier has developed a fresh menu to match the restaurant’s modern, maritime-inspired design and ambience. The restaurant will also be hosting a Grand Reopening Celebration on Thursday, November 19 where guests will be invited to join the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach family for an evening of delectable bites, libations and more. Additional details still to come. Dinner will be served nightly beginning at 6:00p.m. Reservations are suggested; http://www.3030ocean.com.

 
The Little Lighthouse Foundation 6th Annual Nightmare on the Beach

The Battle of Heaven and Hell is occurring in South Beach’s Lummus Park as The Little Lighthouse Foundation hosts its sixth annual Nightmare on the Beach Halloween party on Saturday, October 31. The Little Lighthouse Foundation supports children and their families who struggle with educational, financial, and medical hardships. Celebrating six years of making a difference, the Little Lighthouse Foundation had grown exponentially from 20 to over 800 devoted volunteers, and has recently been selected as a Finalist for Switchboard Miami’s 2015 Volunteerism Award as well as the Switchboard All-Star Award. All attendees will be treated to a premium open bar all night, cuisine from Miami’s top restaurants and caterers, and music from DJ Willy Monfret. This year there will also be an addition to the event known as La Mesa Divina, where 20 guests can celebrate their night straddling Heaven and Hell behind the DJ booth with their own angel and devil servers. Other VIP tables are available for purchase and include unlimited premium bottle service all evening along with 10 Premium tickets. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early by visiting www.nightmareonthebeach.com.

Earlier in the day, from 1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m., the Little Lighthouse Foundation and its fundraising partners have invited children and their families from partner facilities to the inaugural Children’s Halloween Parade at Lummus Park in Miami Beach. Attendance is free and includes trick-or-treating along an established route within the park, with treat stations and fun activities for children along the way. Children will finish the afternoon inside the Nightmare on the Beach Village for a Halloween party featuring interactive games, a monster mash dance-off, face painting, and a costume contest.

The Beauty Symposium at Saks Bal Harbour

On Thursday, October 15, Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour, Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center along with Media Partner Miami Magazine and Miami Fashion and Beauty Blogger Maria Tettamanti of TheWordyGirl.com present an interactive evening of Beauty, Bubbly and Bites highlighting the latest in beauty, skincare and fragrance. The lively panel discussion will feature leaders in the industry; Kate Oldham, SVP Beauty, Saks Fifth Avenue; Nance Hastings, GM North America & VP Global Education, Tom Ford; Laura Slatkin, CEO, Nest Fragrances; Tim Quinn, Celebrity Face Designer & VP of Creative Artistry, Giorgio Armani; Dennis Quan, National Sales Director, by Kilian and Amy Leitner, Account Exertive, Dior. Tastings provided by Makoto, Novecento Aventura, Morton’s The Steakhouse and Sugar Yummy Mama; cocktails provided by Southern Wine & Spirits of South Florida. A portion of the proceeds from the evening’s event will benefit Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center; Thursday, October 15 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

The EDGE Charitable Foundation’s Tropical Miami Night Gala
Join the EDGE Charitable Foundation’s 8th Annual “Tropical Miami Night Gala” on Saturday, October 17, at The Hilton Miami Airport Hotel, from 7:00 p.m. – 12 midnight. The domino themed event will raise funds to benefit children who are homeless, unaccompanied, and victims of human trafficking, domestic violence or victimized in any other way. Don’t miss your chance to experience a tropical island lifestyle where domino tables, cocktails, music and good company are essential. Pre-sale tournament tickets start at $75 per person or $250 per domino table. General admission tickets cost $60. To purchase tickets, visit www.TheEdgeHelps.com.
The Habit Burger Now Open

The Habit Burger Grill in Miami is now open and serves fresh, made-to-order chargrilled burgers and sandwiches featuring USDA choice tri-tip steak, grilled chicken and sushi-grade tuna cooked over an open flame. In addition, it features fresh made-to-order salads and an appealing selection of sides, handmade shakes and malts. The Habit was named the “Best Tasting Burger in America” in July 2014 in a comprehensive survey conducted by one of America’s leading consumer magazines. French fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries and tempura green beans are 100% trans-fat free, cooked in soybean oil. The first Habit Burger Grill opened in Santa Barbara, California in 1969 and has since grown to 120 restaurants in 12 markets throughout California, Arizona, Florida, Nevada, New Jersey and Utah. The Habit Burger Grill Miami will be located at Fountain Square, 9971 West Flagler Street. More information is available at www.habitburger.com.
New Theatre and Mina’s Mediterraneo Present PLAYte

New Theatre and Mina’s Mediterraneo have paired good food and entertainment in a joint venture dubbed PLAYte, a dinner theatre experience. Mina’s Mediterraneo, for $45 audiences will sip wine and dine on a chef selected three course meal in the restaurant’s inviting terrace. Choose from the Chef’s menu selection of 3 appetizers, 3 entrées and 2 desserts. After the reading they will be invited to participate in an engaging talk back offering invaluable insight for the playwright. The Playte series takes place on the third Wednesday of every month – the next one is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, October 21st. For tickets or more information, visit www.new-theatre.org; New Theatre productions may contain adult material, language and/or situations.

Pink Party at Dadeland Mall

Beautiful fashions, better cause! Dadeland Mall invites the community to a Pink Party on Thursday, October 22 from 6-8 p.m.; throughout the event, shoppers will have the opportunity to shop retailer collections, visit sponsor tables, enjoy pink cocktails, experience make-up demonstrations, receive a complimentary gift bag and register for fabulous prizes! In honor of breast cancer awareness month, attendees are invited to leave a Message of Strength on the Dadeland Mall Tree of Hope. This message is an opportunity to show support for those in the community who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Local blogger and stylist, Stephanie Pernas of A Sparkle Factor, will host the fashionable evening. As emcee, Stephanie will discuss fall trends from Dadeland Mall retailers and will offer style advice for every shape, style and budget. Free and open to the public.

Old City Fest This Sunday!

Old City District presents Old City Fest on Sunday, October 11, 2015. This unique festival will draw over 15,000 people to the streets of our most historic square mile for a day filled with food, drink, music, street performance, design, arts, fashion and family fun. Unique activities will include a design showcase as part of DesignPhiladelphia, two fashion shows, clay throw battles, chocolate making demonstrations, “Independents Row” with Old City makers and artists, gallery exhibitions, free demonstrations from museums and cultural attractions, plus appearances by some familiar neighbors from long ago! Old City Fest is also unique in that vendors and participants are from or associated with Old City. For more info, visit oldcitydistrict.org, tweet @oldcitydistrict or call (215) 592-7929.

Amadaversary Garces Has Three Ways To Celebrate Amada’s Tenth Anniversary

Amada Inspired Anniversary Tasting menus offered October 11-16: From Sunday, October 11-Friday, October 16, Amada, Tinto, Distrito, Garces Trading Company and The Olde Bar will all offer a $39 tasting menu in addition to their regular a la carte menu. The tasting menus include a complimentary glass of sangria or punch. $4 from each tasting menu goes to the Garces Foundation. The Garces Foundation is an IRS registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to ensuring that Philadelphia’s underserved immigrant community has access to health and educational services. During Amadaversary week, select guests will be surprised with gifts and giveaways from Garces. Sample surprises include complimentary dinners, wine pairings, lunch in Distrito Taqueria’s Volkswagen Bug for four people, Tequila classes, $100 gift certificates, signed copies of Jose Garces’ cookbooks, and more. Participating restaurants include: Amada, Tinto, Distrito, Garces Trading Company, JG Domestic, The Olde Bar, Village Whiskey and Buena Onda.

Amadaversary Paella Festival

Garces will host the Amadaversary Paella Festival on Sunday, October 18 from 12 noon to 6:00 p.m. The event will be held on 2nd Street between Market and Chestnut Street (enter at Chestnut Street next to Amada). In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Amada, the festival will include: A Paella Cook Off, three bars, meet and mingle with Chef Jose Garces, live music from American Deluxe, DJ from Synergetic Sound, flamenco performances, photo booth, raffles & prizes, face-painting and children’s activities from Nest. Village Whiskey will feature a hot toddy station and Buena Onda will feature K38 beer from Yards. Competing paella dishes include: · Amada- Lamb paella · Distrito- Mole poblano and duck paella · Garces Events- Traditional paella, clams and Spanish chorizo · Garces Trading Company- coq au vin paella · JGD- local vegetable paella · The Olde Bar- crab and bellota paella · Tinto- bacalao and shellfish paella · Volver- Asian Paella $10 per person includes tastings from each of the restaurants and two drink tickets for beer, sangria or the Village Whiskey hot toddy station. Attendance is free for children 12 and under Tickets are available at www.garcesgroup.com.

Amadaversary VIP Party

On Sunday, October 18 from 8 p.m.-11:00 p.m at Amada, Chef Garces will host an exclusive reception honoring Amada’s tenth anniversary. This unforgettable evening will feature 11 alumni chefs and beverage professionals who had previously spent time with the Garces family. Each has crafted a selection inspired by their time with Chef Jose. Chef Garces and the alumni will be present to great throughout the reception. Only 50 tickets are available. Tickets are $125 each and available at garcesgroup.com. Amada Alumni Chefs will prepare dishes inspired by their time at Amada include: · Joey Baldino – Paella Arancini · Jimmy Ciampaglia – Pork Belly Coca, Onion Crema, Apple Mostardo, Mahon · MacGregor Mann – Roasted Calabaza, Pepita Escabeche · Kevin Sbraga – Langosta Ceviche, Coconut Habanero Sauce, Lime Sorbet · Tim Spinner – Kobe Beef Tostada, Tomato Escabeche, Truffle, Crispy Potato · Lemond Adams – Pulled Pork Slider, Peach BBQ, House Pickles · Chad Williams – Chicken Liver Crostini, Wood-Fired Fig Jam · Adam Zensinger – Mergeuz “hot links,” Butter Beans, Pickled Onion Cocktails will be mixed by Amada Alumni Beverage Professionals including: Katie Loeb, Keith Raimondi and Paul Rodriguez. The event is cocktail attire. # # # For more information please visit www.garcesgroup.com/events/amadaversary #Amadaversary.