Little Havana hotspot, Ball & Chain, simultaneously celebrated its 80th and first birthdays with a three day music festival during Labor Day weekend. The world famous live music venue has made its mark among nightlife and music lovers thanks to its exciting programming- including live jazz, top performing artists and our favorite: the Saturday night Pachanga- which features a live, 12-piece Cuban band that would make Ricky Ricardo proud. On any given night- you will find a lively crowd enjoying one-of-a-kind cocktails, accompanied by unique bites in the gorgeous and nostalgic space.

Ball & Chain, originally a live jazz lounge on Calle Ocho was open from September 1935 until the 1950s. It was reopened and remastered last September by nightlife impresario Zack Bush, his brother, Ben Bush and their childhood friend Bill Fuller, of the Barlington Group. Read the rest here »

Pasta Vino Miami is a hidden gem nestled in a quaint shopping center in North Bay Village. If you didn’t set out looking for it, chances are you’ve driven down the causeway and missed out on this fantastic neighborhood spot. Here, executive Chef and Owner Yiannis Devert prepares authentic Italian cuisine, with a twist.

Chef Devert uses his classic French training along with his Greek and Italian background to prepare a menu of unique dishes as well as daily specials that run the gamut of French, Greek and even Thai cuisine. Chef Devert’s passion for his craft is evident as he busies himself between the kitchen and interacting with his customers, excitedly blending dishes and offering customers something creative and memorable that keeps them coming back for more. Must-try dishes include the eggplant parmigiana, Risotto al Funghi, lasagna, vongole white, homemade pizzas and the Veal Scalopina al Fungi. And don’t forget the fantastic chocolate mousse cake and authentic Tiramisu for dessert.

Pasta Vino offers unbeatable deals that make the high-quality cuisine even more irresistible–daily happy hour from 5-7 PM with 25% off drinks and dinner; “Buy One Get One 50% off Pizzas;” and delivery options that include a complimentary bottle of Italian wine with any order above $80.

Pasta Vino Offers lunch, dinner, happy hour and delivery and is located at 1624 NE 79th JFK Causeway, North Bay Village.

Hannya Sushi Joins Forces with St. John Bosco Clinic
On Thursday, September 24,Hannya Sushi joins forces with St. John Bosco Clinic (SJB Clinic) to create a special fundraiser to assist the underserved children and adults of Miami Dade. Come join Hannya for this one-time-only event benefiting SJB Clinic, a part of Sister of ST. Joseph of St. Augustine. This local organization, which last year assisted over 1,000 patients in our local area, depends on your generosity and donations to run successfully. Hannya is providing this heart-felt organization with 100% of the proceeds collected at the door and providing the patrons with special deals on some of the fan favorites; 1063 Brickell Plaza $5 entrance fee.

Peppa Pig’s First-ever U.S. Theatrical Tour
More fun than a muddy puddle! On the heels of strong U.S. ticket sales for its first leg of tour dates, and by popular demand, an additional 65 cities and 100 performances have been announced for Peppa Pig’s first-ever U.S. theatrical tour, Peppa Pig’s Big Splash. Peppa Pig, star of Entertainment One’s (eOne) top-rated TV series, airing daily on Nick Jr., and her all-new live stage show will visit more than 90 cities through 2016 including the Fillmreo Miami Beach on Saturday, January 23rd, 2016 / 5:00p.m. Reserved Seat tickets for Peppa Pig’s first-ever U.S. theatrical tour, Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Saturday, January 23rd, 2016 / 5PM are $42.50, $34.50 and $26.50. They go on sale Saturday, September 19th / 10AM at LiveNation.com or charge by phone 800-745-3000 and at the Fillmore Box Office during normal business hours (Mon. – Fri., 11AM – 6PM and during show days). All dates, acts and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, parking and service and handling charges. Citi® Cardmember and Facebook presale tickets, as well as “pink carpet“ VIP packages that include a meet and greet, will be available September 16 at 10:00 a.m. Citi® Cardmember Preferred Tickets and general public tickets are on sale beginning September 19. Fans can purchase tickets and find more information at www.peppapiglive.com.
Fashionably Conscious for Coconut Grove Cares
Fashionably Conscious, one of the most sought after fashion fundraising events in Miami, is heading to Cocowalk this year to celebrate its eighth annual fashion event. The event will take place from September 25-27 and feature discounted prices on gently used high-end designer items donated by some of Miami’s elite philanthropists and community leaders. This year, shoppers will be able to get their hands on items by Prada, Chanel, Chloe, Jimmmy choo, Gucci, and more! The best part? All proceeds go to Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard Center- a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children raised in poverty stricken homes in the historic West Coconut Grove; For more information visit www.fashionablyconscious.org.

Thompson Miami Beach Hosts Papaya Playa
This Saturday, Thompson Miami Beach is hosting a limited one-time Saturday pool party, Papaya Playa. Guest will enjoys $10 cocktail specials including Mint Juleps and Jalisco Mules while Dude Skywalker and Lazaro Casanova are spinning. That’s not all! Thompson Miami Beach recently announced its NEW FALL PROGRAMMING and partnership with experienced based concert production company III Points. Together, they created a banging lineup of events at the hotel’s 1930s House and its two pools, with live entertainment (bands, performers, DJs), taking place over the next three months.

Clarins Presents Mission Perfection and Spa Facial Specials
Celebrity Makeup Artist and Clarins Brand Ambassador, Dayan Herrera will present the latest revolution from the Clarins luxury line, Mission Perfection Serum, this week. Additionally, Clarins is offering $50 Spa Facials for the month of October at Nordstrom Merrick Park and Bloomingdale’s Aventura.

Libertine Downtown Miami
Introducing Libertine, downtown’s new bar where eclectic beats and renegade cocktails take center stage. Opened in Summer 2015 at 40 NE 11th Street, Libertine is a bar for the people; start the night sipping a proper Old Fashioned from an arm chair, bring in the new day swigging whisky on top of the bar’s Baby Grand, and if not for a dusting of glitter and memories of Iggy Pop piping from the DJ booth, forget everything that happened in between. With an interior harkening back to the glamorously decayed watering holes of turn of the century London, Libertine’s interior features eclectic décor like a floor covered in thousands of pennies, easy leather sofas a DJ booth fashioned from a repurposed Baby Grand piano, and an expansive cocktail bar featuring a comprehensive mixology program. Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday’s from 9am until your heart desires; For more information visit www.libertinemiami.com.

1 Hotel South Beach Presents Music-centric Experience, 1Sound

The sophistication of the French Riviera is finally making its way to Miami Beach. 1 Hotel South Beach is thrilled to announce its new monthly music-centric experience, 1Sound. The intimate events will feature some of the world’s top DJs, in a chic, tropical setting. The first event will kick off on October 3rd, 2015 with famed headliner Lee Foss. Serge Devant, Pirate Stereo, and Santiago Caballero will also be performing throughout the day. This is an exclusive VIP event. Entry is determined by the doorman’s discretion. To guarantee access to this exclusive all-day experience, your party must reserve a table or a cabana at 1 Hotel Rooftop.
MISO Kicks Off 2015/2016 Season
The Miami Symphony Orchestra (MISO) kicks off the 2015/2016 season at the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Knight Concert Hall on Sunday, October 4 at 6:00 p.m., celebrating 10 years of leadership under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Eduardo Marturet. Single tickets are now on sale, and start at just $44. For more information, visit www.themiso.org or call (305) 275-5666.

By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

We suspected Byblos was going to be something extra special when we attended the opening celebration in June, which featured everything from exquisite bites and drinks to a full concert by Marina and the Diamonds; on-the-spot poets and an A-list crowd. But we had no idea just how extraordinary this jewel of a restaurant would be. Fast forward a month later and we were treated to one of the most elegant, unique and outstanding dining experiences to date. Most noteworthy is the attention to detail that is prevalent throughout the entire Byblos experience- from the attentive staff (Arturo spoiled us) to the beautiful and eclectic, traditional one-of plates and silverware to the rituals, such as the French press service- served in antique tea cups; tableside spirit infused cold tea trolley and the desserts which are served atop a silver platter. Read the rest here »

The hashtag says it all: #IWILLWHATIWANT and that includes power, health, strength, confidence, style and oh, yeah, championships – especially in the case of Women’s World Cup Champion and Under Armour athlete Kelley O’Hara. SIX:02, the fabulous store that is part of Foot Locker Inc., is “a destination built for the fashionably fit, fearlessly stylish and uniquely expressive real woman.” SIX:02 teamed up with athletic wear industry giant, Under Armour to introduce the Armour® Bra Collection – the most comfortable workout wear around, which is now available at all SIX:02 locations and on SIX02.com

In late August, SIX:02 and Under Armour hosted an exclusive event including a workout and dinner with O’Hara and Under Armour master trainer Keoni Hudoba – to show off the hardest working gear in sports- including the sneakers, tops, pants and bras- all powered by Under Armour. The high energy workout took place inside of Wall nightclub at the W Hotel so you know the music was blaring and made for a unique, clubby experience. After training hard, guests played even harder- as the cocktails flowed and tasty bites were passed.

Be sure to visit SIX:02, which carries the best styles from top name brands including Nike, Under Armour, adidas, Asics, Reebok and more – each of the 20+ stores, including a location in Aventura Mall, is curated to provide only the best in athletic wear and fitness fashion.

Additional information may be found on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SIX02| Twitter: @SIX02| Instagram: @SIX02 #SIX02Moment.

By: Maryannesalvat@aol.com
Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center

Thursday, September 17 at the Just Cavalli boutique in the Aventura Mall, Maya Ezratti, Lauren Geduld, Lauren Kessler-Philolius host a special event benefiting the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center on (suite #139, first floor) from 7 to 9 PM. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center. An exclusive Pre-Shop will take place an hour prior to the VIP cocktail (6 – 7 PM). The guests who attend the Pre-sSop hour will have an exclusively opportunity to win a Just Cavalli shopping spree valued at $1,000. Two winners will be chosen at the end of the evening. To RSVP, please email justcavalli@thepattongroupinc.com.
Chefs Up Front Miami

Florida Introduces Physical Activity and Nutrition to Youth (FLIPANY), will be hosting Chefs Up Front Miami, the 3rd annual gastronomical experience for the Miami community, at the Biltmore on Friday, September 18, 2015. Internationally renowned chefs will be creating a customized five-course signature meal for groups of ten at their own table. Each menu is exclusive to that table as it represents each chef and their restaurant. The event benefits Cooking Matters™, a program that teaches children and their families how to make healthy food choices, cook healthy meals and shop for nutritious foods on a budget. FLIPANY is the only agency in South Florida providing the national Cooking Matters program, created by Share our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign. All money raised from the events supports Cooking Matters™ for schoolchildren and their families in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County.
The Making of South Beach Reunion Weekend
Over the past three years Bobby Radical has been compiling the Making of South Beach film documentary; there have been several pop up reunions, fund raisers and great friends that have come together for this documentary. On Friday, September 18, join the Clevelander Reunion’s Facebook group to celebrate all those who made South Beach back in the day. Radical has rounded up all the old school DJ’s and live acts that are still together to create an epic event that kicks off at the Forge. A pre-fixed 3-course dinner will be available with an optional $50 bottle of Veuve Clicquot. The fun continues on Saturday’s main event at Toe Jam and concludes on Sunday with Albion’s iconic pool party featuring a set by the late great DJ Mark Leventhal’s son Kyle. Holly Leventhal Bagdashian and Jody McDonald hosts of the Original Aqua Cafe Tea Dance for the early 90’s, return for ‘The Last Dance Tea’ Adora and Shelley Novak, both South Beach drag queen legends will perform and if you’re lucky maybe a cameo by Maryel Epps; for more information visit: www.MySouthBeachReunion.com or www.TheMakingofSouthBeach.com.

Friends of St. Jude Miami Present: It’s All About the Kids

Friends of St. Jude (FOSJ) Miami, the young professionals group dedicated to raising awareness and funding for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, and chaired by Jeb Bush Jr., invites the South Florida community to the eighth annual International Dermatology “It’s All About the Kids” signature event, presented by the Andrés Asion Foundation. In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, this year’s event will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 19, at the JW Marriott Marquis in Downtown Miami. The event will feature a tasting menu and cocktails, as well as music by DJ Pete Diaz. This year’s hosts include Telemundo’s very own, Jorge Bernal, known as “Mr. Check it Out,” and Fusion’s Nando Vila, co-host of “The Soccer Gods.” The evening’s enticing live auction will be conducted by Ashley Morrison from Miami’s local FOX 7 news station and Keith Jones from NBC 6. Individual tickets are $175 for members and $200 for non-members, and can be purchased online at stjude.org/itsallaboutthekids or by calling (305) 265-1371. To follow the event conversation online, use the official hashtag: #FriendOfStJudeMiami.
Let’s Eat Dinner Series at Swine Southern Table & Bar
Swine Southern Table & Bar will be offering a preview of its new fall menu at their inaugural gathering for the Let’s Eat Dinner Series on Tuesday, September 29 at 7:00pm! At $ 70 per person, the evening will begin with cocktail hour featuring hors d’oeuvres and spirits, followed by a 3-course dinner showcasing dishes from the new fall menu. For reservations, guests may call 786-360-6433. Additionally, Swine is excited to announce that it will now be serving Lewellyn’s Fine Fried Chicken, the popular dish from sister restaurant Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. This famous fried chicken will be available every night for supper starting at the Let’s Eat Dinner.

Dark Skies at the 1 Hotel South Beach
Every month, when the sky is darkest, 1 Hotel South Beach turns the lights down low for an evening of candlelight to reduce its impact, raise awareness for global light pollution, and honor the celestial cycles of the planet. In order to create the perfect atmosphere for the eco-chic event, the lights throughout the lobby and front desk area were lowered, candles and lanterns filled the space and the living Moss Art Wall featured a projection of the earth. Mark your calendars! Dark Sky will also take place on Monday, October 12, Wednesday, November 11 and Friday, December 11.