Join Young Friends of Garces Foundation for the Second Annual Fundraiser at Hip Philly in The Piazza on Friday, April 10. VIP Cocktail Hour – 9:00pm-10:00pm – showcasing local craft beer & cheese pairings from Dock Street Brewery, Yard’s Brewing Company, Conshohocken Brewing Company, and Evil Genius Beer Company.

General Admission – 10:00pm-1:30am will feature music, dancing, an open bar featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Bluecoat Gin as well as light snacks provided by Philly Pretzel Factory and Famous 4th Street Cookie Company.

Hurry up and get your tickets before they sell out! For tickets visit: http://www.garcesfoundation.org/welcome/

By: Maryanne Salvat

#FlyNYONMiami 

NYonAir, a custom aerial content agency specializing in breath-taking birds-eye-views and visuals of New York, is proud to announce the launch of its new consumer product offering, FlyNYON; and its first city expansion into the South Florida market. The newly introduced FlyNYON invites consumers and adventure seeking photographers to soar through the sky to capture original citywide aerial images – just like the pros. The company offers guests state of the art helicopter flights, guided by photo-centric pilots to position them above the city and shoot out of an open door, for one of the most distinct vantage points in the world. Affordably priced, this incredible experience allows photo-enthusiasts the rare chance to capture wide city shots that a million dollar penthouse just can’t offer. To kick-off in this new market, the promotion now includes an Instagram based consumer contest using campaign hashtag #FlyNYONMiami that will reward the best shots of Miami with complimentary “Photo Flights” at its invite-only launch event at the North Perry Airport on April 11; For additional details on the Instagram photo contest, visit: http://media.nyonair.com/flynyonmiami-contest/.

T.J.Maxx Opens 20^th Location in The Fountain Square

T.J.Maxx, one of the nation’s largest off-price retailers, is adding a new store in Miami, making it the 20^th store in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area. The Fountain Square, W Flagler Street location opens at 8:00am on Sunday, April 12 – offering shoppers a wide selection of high quality and brand name items from fashion and accessories to beauty, pet products, toys, home essentials and more!

Along with the new store, the majority of stores in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale market will be joining in the grand opening festivities for a Maxx Miami Celebration! All participating stores will open at 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, and the first 1,000 customers at each store will receive a free reusable bag. There will also be live entertainment, gift card prizes, giveaways and of course, incredible merchandise at all participating stores that will allow shoppers to personalize the moments in their life that matter most to them!

Kone Sushi

Those who love sushi already know the name Kone Sushi by heart.  Recognized in South Beach as the best sushi for two years in a row, the popular restaurant is now making its way inland to the diverse foodie scene of Downtown Miami.  Since their opening in September 2009, founders The Medeiros and Partners have made it their mission to bring a unique and delicious Japanese and Brazilian fusion that delights locals and travelers alike. Kone Sushi offers weekly specials that will make a loyal customer out of almost anyone.  With at least four new specials a week, there is an abundance of new mouth-watering plates to try. Monday through Thursday you can enjoy their incredible all-you-can-eat sushi dinner specials for only $28.95 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Ladies enjoy the same amazing all-you-can-eat sushi special on Tuesdays for only $20.

PhilanthroFest

PhilanthroFest, the nation’s largest community engagement festival, presents their carnival-inspired event to connect people, passion and philanthropy. PhilanthroFest will take place on Saturday, April 11, at Museum Park from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with the goal of connecting potential volunteers, donors and supporters to causes and non-profit organizations. PhilanthroFest will bring together dozens of artists, over 100 causes, and thousands of attendees looking to engage and learn about what the community has to offer and ways to give back. By transforming 30 acres at Museum Park into a carnival dreamland, PhilanthroFest will offer locals the opportunity to dream, create and inspire while enjoying an interactive experience with food, music and dance performances, games, live giveaways and special surprises throughout the day. Organizations will share their mission, offerings and engagement options in the various Community Walks featuring causes focused on City & Environment, People & Education, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Health & Wellness and Arts & Culture.

Modern Garden 

Carlos and Maryam Miranda proudly announce the opening to the public of their new venture Modern Garden, a hot stone and crudo lounge with newly appointed Chef Benjamin Goldman. Voted and featured as part of Miami’s Zagat 30 under 30, the young and enterprising Chef Goldman curated the cuisine at Modern Garden to feature select crudos — a contemporary interpretation of exquisite raw fish and seafood dressed with infused oils, citrus and fresh herbs. Guests who prefer their selections cooked can order from Modern Garden’s signature hot stone selections, searing both seafood and premium meats on the 850-degree volcanic stone slabs, conveniently at their table. The combined experience of the sizzle of meat on the hot stone, the fun of interaction with the cuisine, and the delectable result is all part of Modern Garden’s appeal. Modern Gardenis open for dining Tuesday through Saturday noon to 12:00 a.m.; for reservations call: 305.440.4200.

Bottomless Mimosas at The District 

You may be familiar with The District’s bottomless mimosas served during their world famous brunch every Saturday and Sunday. The famed boozy special is now kicking off your weekend a day early. Introducing bottomless mimosas, now served Fridays from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. weekly.

The Village at Gulfstream Park Celebrates 5 Years!

Discover The Village at Gulfstream Park, a lavish open-air retail, dining and entertainment center anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack and Casino. Celebrating its five year anniversary this year, The Village at Gulfstream Park offers an exciting array of adult and kid-friendly venues including signature restaurants, outdoor cafes, nightclubs, art galleries, fashion retailers, sports bars, a new state-of-the-art bowling alley, and a fabulous selection of home design stores. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy at The Village at Gulfstream Park; for store hours, upcoming events and additional information, visit www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com or call 954-378-0900.

Chef Philipe Ruiz at FAB Brunch

Michelin-starred executive chef Phillip Ruiz, who gained a cult-like following for his decadent brunch at the iconic Biltmore Hotel has moved on up to the east-side. All the way up to Sunny Isles Beach, where he now helms the kitchen at Fresh American Bistro, affectionately known as FAB, located at Sole on the Ocean Resort and Spa. Ruiz’s menu for the “Brunch FABulously” program, features contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Brunch is served every Sunday at the sleek, yet intimate dining room or on the restaurants wrap around outdoor terrace, overlooking breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

At $45 ($22 for kids 12 and under) brunch is a bargain- especially since a raw bar piled high with shrimp, oysters, stone crabs, Alaskan King Crab and ceviche is fresh and abundant. There’s also unlimited caviar- with all the trimmings.

In addition to the staples such as Belgian Waffles and Eggs Benedict, guests will find culinary classics that are both innovative and familiar such as Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tarragon and Capers, crepes, Spicy Lamb Sausage, and Citrus Poached Atlantic Salmon. Other menu items include Cracked Pepper Skirt Steak, Silver Dollar Pancakes, Mahi Mahi and ceviche. Save room for the dessert table- complete with a chocolate fountain. Read the rest here »

Award-winning churrascaria, Texas de Brazil (http://www.texasdebrazil.com) is now open Dadeland Mall. The stunning, new 6,000 square foot restaurant boasts an elaborate menu that includes 16 perfectly grilled prime cuts of beef, lamb, pork, chicken and sausage, which are prepared in the traditional Brazilian method – over an open flame – and carved table side by gauchos.

The concept comes to life through the illustrious red and green cards, which guests use to indicate when they’d like to sample more cuts of meat, or when they need to take a break. Each guest is in control of his dining experience. Service is friendly,, knowledgeable and extremely attentive. In addition, diners can also help themselves to the extensive fresh gourmet salad area, which features more than 50 delicious items, such as imported cheeses, charcuterie, Brazilian black beans, roasted vegetables, fresh salamis. Sushi and creamy lobster bisque. Also featured is an extensive award-winning wine list, rich in South American varietals, to further enhance the dining experience. The restaurant also includes a stylish, extensive bar/lounge area, chef’ stable and open-kitchen. There’s also outdoor patio dining available.

“Dadeland Mall is a flourishing shopping destination with a vibrant dining scene, which makes it an ideal location to bring our unique Texas de Brazil dining experience to even more Miami residents and visitors,” stated COO, Salim Asrawi. “We are thrilled to begin serving guests of this iconic shopping center and the surrounding communities.”

Area residents can visit www.texasdebrazil.com/reservations/ to make reservations or call the restaurant directly at (305) 669-2181.

Texas de Brazil at Dadeland Mall is open for dinner nightly and will soon be featuring lunch hours as well. The dining prices are $46.99 for a Regular Dinner, which includes the meat service and salad area, and $24.99 for Salad Area Only Dinner (prices exclude beverages and dessert). Children under 2 years old are complimentary; ages 3–5 are $5.00; and kids 6–12 dine for half-price.

Mural Arts Program Scavenger Hunt

On Saturday, April 11 the 2015 Mural Arts Program season kicks off with an exciting FREE public event, a scavenger hunt! This fun, interactive event, perfect for all ages, will be held at Mural Arts’ new tours office, located at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts’ (PAFA) Hamilton Building (128 N. Broad Street), from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will feature the launch of the first-ever Mural Arts Scavenger Hunt. The festivities and scavenger hunt will begin at 11 a.m., with the scavenger hunt running about 90 minutes. A festive party will follow, with food provided by Tableau, the new Stephen Starr café located at PAFA. The April 11 event is free of charge, though registration is required. To register visit: Tours@muralarts.org with your name and the number of people on your team. Each team is required to have at least one mobile device or tablet to use during the event. For questions or further information, call 215-925-3633.

Brunch at Rosa Blanca

Rosa Blanca, 707 Chestnut Street, will now serve brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The menu will feature fresh fruit mimosas and coladas, American breakfast classics, and Cuban-inspired brunch dishes and coffee including: Vaca Frita, crispy braised skirt steak, two eggs any style, arroz Moro, maduros, and Cuban Style French Toast, with guava. (mmmm…); For more information visit: www.philadelphia.rosablancadiner.com. On Wednesday, April 8, Rosa Blanca will also be celebrating National Empanada Day with a special Oxtail Empanada, as well as the Empanada de Espinaca (Smoked Corn, Spinach, and Cheese Empanada) for $3.00.  Visit Rosa Blanca on National Empanada Day and use the hashtag #rosablancaempanada on Twitter and/or Instagram and your name will be entered into a drawing for dinner and dance lessons for two, hosted by acclaimed dance instructor Maestro Flaco.

Buena Onda Joins Caviar 

On Monday, April 6, Buena Onda, the hottest addition to the Garces Group, will be joining Caviar, the delivery service that provides customers top notch service at their fingertips. With the use of the web or instantly from Caviar’s free app for iOS and Android customers can enjoy quick, reliable delivery service no matter where they are. The first 100 orders will receive free chips and guacamole and the choice of one free shrimp or carnitas taco. (Limit of one per order.) For more information, please visit www.trycaviar.com.

Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival Preview Party 

On Thursday, April 16, join Rittenhouse Row at the Rittenhouse Hotel from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. for the 2015 Spring Festival Preview Party, featuring cuisine from Rittenhouse Row’s best restaurants, cocktails from their best bartenders and a silent auction with Rittenhouse Row experiences and merchandise. Participating bars and restaurants include: 1925 Cocktail Lounge, a. Bar, a. Kitchen, Ben & Jerry’s, Butcher and Singer, The Continental Mid-town, The Dandelion, D’Angelo’s Ristorante Italiano and Lounge, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Devon Seafood Grill, The Foodery at Rittenhouse, Lacroix, Ladder 15, Library Bar, Marathon Grill, Melograno, Parc, Qdoba, Ranstead Room, Rouge, Sbraga, Termini Bros. Bakery, Volver, Zama and more. Tickets are $75 per person for general admission, $125 for Patron tickets. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.rittenhouserow.org. Proceeds from the event will benefit Rittenhouse Row, a non-profit organization devoted to promoting the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood.

The Longines Global Champions Tour

This year – from April 1 through April 4, The Longines Global Champions Tour, will be coming to the USA. Launching in Miami, this horse- jumping global circuit championship will be staged on the gorgeous sands of Miami Beach, just inches from the ocean, directly opposite Collins Park at the Setai. Over three days of competition, the greatest riders in the world will come together to battle for $879,000 in prizes across five 5* classes, including the world-renowned Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix and the prestigious American Invitational. Among them, USA’s Kent Farrington will ride as well as Athina Onassis de Miranda and Georgina Bloomberg  are expected; for more information visit: www.globalchampionstour.com.

Fashion Breakfast Presents Dannijo Designers

On Thursday, April 2, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Cecconi’s presents another Fashion Breakfast with jewelry designer’s sisters Danielle Snyder & Jodie Snyder Morel of Dannijo; Moderated by Writer Anastasia Koutsioukis, Mrs. Mondolin. A buffet-style breakfast, served at $15 per person plus tax and gratuities, will be served;Coffee, tea and juice are included. RSVP: fashionforbreakfastmia@gmail.com.

The Barton G. Kids Hear Now Foundation

The long awaited 2015 gala for The Barton G. Kids Hear Now Foundation will be held on Saturday, April 11 at 7:00pm at The Temple House. Citing as its mission, “Giving the Gift of Sound”, the foundation will also serve as a national resource base for the hearing-challenged and their families. The Center places an emphasis on the viability of cochlear implants and vital auditory therapy as a successful option for deaf children and offers support to the children and their families before and after the patient receives their cochlear implant; for more information about the gala, to purchase tickets, or for sponsorship information visit: www.KidsHearNow.org.

Clarins Springtime Specials

Beauty line Clarins is offering $50 Spa Facials for the month of April at Bloomingdale’s at Aventura and Nordstrom at Village of Merrick Park.

Enjoy the Youth Fair this Weekend

The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition is bigger and better then ever. This year, the Youth Fair is offering  an awesome craft beer garden, complete with a funnel cake burger- to satisfy the munchies! With more than 170 food vendors, there is something to satisfy every palate. In addition to the favorite Youth Fair foods like popcorn, cotton candy, elephant ears, corn on the cob, pretzels and candy apples be sure to stop by and see Jane at the Best Around for the best funnel cakes and elephant ears at the fair. Besides the funnel cake burger at the Outlaw Grill at Beer Haven, other musts are the “Sticky Pig on a Stick” (two Krispy Kreme Donuts, soft Strawberry Custard, dipped in rich chocolate fudge and rolled in applewood smoked candied bacon or Key Lime Pie Ice Cream with no bacon and graham cracker). Also new this year is the Miami Sundae created by Michael Kramer. The Miami Sundae is Cuban style roast pork, white rice, black beans, onions and plantains all served in a sundae cup. Definitely try the newest thrill ride- the Screamer, before indulging in these tasty treats.  The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition, known for generations as The Youth Fair, is a private, not-for- profit organization that has donated well over $10 million in scholarships, awards and cash premiums to Miami-Dade students and is dedicated to supporting education and South Florida agriculture. The Youth Fair will continue through April 5.  For more information visit www.fairexpo.com or call 305.223.7060.

ARC Broward’s Delish 2015 

ARC Broward’s Delish 2015 presented by PNC Bank will feature Touche Executive Chef and Top Chef Star Carla Pellegrino as this year’s honorary judge with special guest host CBS Miami’s ‘Taste of the Town’ hostLisa Petrillo. One amazing restaurant from either Broward or Miami-Dade will take the winning prize during this fourth annual culinary extravaganza on Friday, April 17 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Young at Art Children’s Museum. Attendees will indulge in an array of delicious fare, refreshing cocktails sponsored by Stoli Vodka,dancing, live entertainment, as well as a silent auction that will all benefit ARC Broward to support critically-needed services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.A panel of esteemed food bloggers will also vote on their favorite dish among the chefs, awarding a ‘Bloggers Choice’ accolade. Competing chefs will work alongside ARC Broward Culinary Institute students and graduates who will assist in creating and serving unique culinary delights. Event proceeds will benefit the ARC Broward Culinary Institute, which offers a 16-week certificate program that allows students with developmental disabilities and other life challenges the ability to obtain real world, on-the-job training, with all revenues directly supporting job training and placement in the culinary field. Other proceeds will be used to build a bigger culinary school and offer more opportunities for students. General admission tickets priced at $150 and VIP tickets are priced at $200. For sponsorship information or tickets, contact director of development Jessica Kersey at jkersey@arcbroward.com or 954-746-9400 ext. 2203 or visit www.arcbroward.com.