Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 13 - 2024
On Tuesday, September 10, Modern Luxury Miami hosted the 14th annual “To Live & Dine” event at Paradise Plaza in the Miami Design District. The evening unfolded as a true gastronomic adventure, showcasing the finest offerings from Miami’s premier restaurants and culinary talents.
Guests were treated to an array of delectable creations from celebrated establishments such as ABA, Amalia, Bellita Pasta, Boulud Sud Miami, Casadonna Miami, Cookin Genie, Delilah, Dirty French, Elastika, Kissaki, Kojin 2.0, La Natural, Sereia, Sushi Sake, Truluck’s, Uchi, Vitolo, and others. The cocktails were equally impressive, with refreshing concoctions from Yave Tequila and Una Vodka maintaining the lively atmosphere, while Chip City Cookies provided the perfect sweet ending.
Among the standout bites: Red Farm’s Truffle Shrimp Shumai took the top spot, followed closely by Uchi’s Blue Fin Tuna, Hampton Social’s Lobster Rolls, Kojin 2.0’s Wild Rice with Maitake mushrooms and Parmesan foam, and Vitolo’s meatballs.
DJ Ivanco contributed to the vibrant ambiance with his exceptional music, keeping the crowd thoroughly energized throughout the event. The best part: a portion of the evening’s proceeds went toward the Chapman Partnership which seeks to empower the homeless.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On September - 3 - 2024
Miami’s culinary scene just got even more vibrant with the arrival of Maíz y Agave, a lively tribute to Oaxaca, Mexico, where every dish and drink feels like a love letter to this rich and storied region.
Located in the heart of Coral Gables, Maíz y Agave invites you to dive deep into the essence of Mexico by artfully blending ancient Oaxacan traditions with a modern twist. The venue is a feast for the eyes, adorned with intricate Mexican artwork and craftsmanship that create an enchanting atmosphere, urging guests to immerse themselves in Oaxaca’s rich heritage.
A Culinary Expedition Across Three Floors
Imagine this: three distinct floors, each offering a unique culinary journey through Mexico. On the ground floor, El Patio’s vibrant décor and menu is filled with Oaxacan delights. From the tableside-prepared Guacamole Mexicano en Molcajete to the daring Tostada Vicosa pero Sabrosa with chapulines, each bite tells a story. But the stars of the show? The Mole Negro, Cochinita Pibil, and the traditional Tlayudas—each dish a testament to the richness of Oaxacan cuisine.
The Matsur Bar, also on the first floor, serves up cocktails that are as playful as they are potent. Sip on the Tacon De Madre or the cheekily named Pito Loco, and let the mezcal flavors elevate your night. The frozen mojitos—customizable with your liquor of choice—are a must-try. This isn’t just a bar; it’s the opening act to your culinary adventure.
Ascend to the second floor, and you’ll find Los Balcones, where the dining experience reaches new heights. Here, salsa is theatrically prepared table-side, and you might even be asked to lend a hand.
The menu is a symphony of traditional Oaxacan flavors, with Chef Christian Moreno, a proud Oaxacan native, presenting his top picks: Caldo de Piedra, Almond Mole with Duck, and the exquisite Lobster Tail in Oaxacan sauce. The steaks are exceptional, and you absolutely cannot miss the Aguachile de Ribeye Wagyu. It’s haute cuisine with heart, nestled in an elegant setting that promises an unforgettable evening.
La Azotea, the rooftop bar l, boasts an energy as high as the views. As the sun sets over Miami, unwind with a handcrafted cocktail or a premium mezcal, and let the stunning panoramas take your breath away. A DJ spins dance music and throwback hits from the ’90s (think Bash’s back patio circa 1998), perfect for singing along and dancing with friends, old and new. La Azotea is exactly the kind of place Coral Gables has been missing—offering a lively happy hour and an energetic late-night vibe (open until 1:00 am on weekends).
A Story in Every Corner
Every nook of Maíz y Agave tells a tale. From the handmade plates crafted by Oaxacan artisans to the traditional crafts that support over 100 families, this restaurant is a proud tribute to the culture of Oaxaca. Live Mariachi music three nights a week adds to the festive atmosphere, while signature cocktails and Oaxacan coffee selections tantalize the taste buds. For those with a sweet tooth, homemade Oaxacan chocolates and ice cream are the ultimate indulgence.
As I sipped my mezcal and watched the world from La Azotea, I felt a profound connection to the stories, flavors, and spirit of Oaxaca that Maíz y Agave brings to life so beautifully. Whether you choose El Patio, Los Balcones, or La Azotea, be prepared for an authentic Oaxacan experience that will linger long after the last bite.
Maíz y Agave is dedicated to celebrating Mexican cuisine while supporting community development. All proceeds fund its foundation’s initiatives, enhancing education, skills, and economic sustainability for indigenous communities. By dining there, you’re not just savoring Mexico’s culinary history—you’re supporting growth and opportunity for those preserving the culture. Every visit fosters a brighter future for the communities that inspire the ambiance and cuisine at Maiz y Agave.
As we stepped onto the sandy shores of the stylish Joia Beach, we were delighted by all of the beautifully branded Viktor&Rolf umbrellas and decor in honor of the brand’s unveiling of its latest olfactory masterpiece: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily. The scene was set like a page out of a summer romance novel—an exclusive, private party under the setting Miami sun, where the air was filled with the scent of tiger lilies- which were ever present- on the displays, bars and cocktail tables.
The guest list included influencers: Batsheva Haart, Valerie Domínguez, Alejandra Divo, Lisa Opie, Paula Macher, Christie Ferrari, and Moira Tumas, who mingled, and toasted to the new takeover, while sampling the fragrances and taking plenty of insta-worthy photos.
As we marveled at the Miami skyline at dusk, while swinging on rope swings by the ocean, we could sense the buzz of the stylish crowd, as they sipped signature cocktails and sampled the Flowerbomb and Spicebomb collections; their senses alight with the rich, floral, and spicy notes.
Cocktails flowed freely, each one as beautifully crafted as the fragrances themselves. And then, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the music took over. Puerto Rican singer RaiNao serenaded us with her sultry voice, while Coco&Breezy spun beats that kept everyone dancing well into the night.
Fortunately, the Flowerbomb Tiger Lily Beach Club pop-up will continue through August 18th.
Guests will have a chance to lounge by the water, cocktail in hand, while enjoying the scents of tiger lily wafting through the air at this tropical oasis right in the heart of Miami. Be sure to visit to sample the full Flowerbomb collection, and shop to your heart’s content.
We are sure you’ll agree: Flowerbomb Tiger Lily isn’t just a perfume, it’s the scent of summer in a bottle.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On June - 11 - 2024
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 Bliss. Tropical 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 Wednesday, June 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 guestsmust 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
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On July - 26 - 2023
PATRÓN Tequila took over the second annual Miami Grand Prix with star-studded events both on and off the track. On Friday, May 5, PATRÓN Tequila brought its iconic Grand Prix celebration, the PATRÓN Pit Stop, to Miami after its big debut at the Austin Grand Prix last October.
The hottest party of the Miami Grand Prix weekend was a star-studded event at Joia Beach that featured a live performance from global superstar, Becky G., who performed an entire concert of all of her hit songs for a stylish and enthusiastic crowd. The party also included notable guests such as the cast of The Real Housewives of Miami including Adriana De Moura and Lisa Hochstein, actress and singer Lele Pons, celebrity make-up artist Patrick Ta, musician Austin Mahone, and more. The party continued at Eleven nightclub, where guests including actor, James Marsden.
On race day, Becky G. made her way to the track and cheered on the Oracle Red Bull racing team from the Oracle Red Bull Paddock Suite with a PATRÓN margarita in hand. Following the race, Becky G. and actors Ben Barnes, Eli Brown, Kendrick Sampson, and Thomas Doherty, made their way to the Oracle Red Bull Racing Team after party held at the Toejam Backlot.
With the explosive growth and rising interest in motorsport from fans around the globe, PATRÓN is playing an active part in that passion. PATRÓN is the first official tequila sponsor of the F1 Paddock Club, and partner of Oracle Red Bull driver, Checo Pérez, and now, the official spirits partner of the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.
Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On May - 23 - 2023
The Hyundai Air & Sea Show®, the Greatest Show Above the Earth® returns to Miami Beach Memorial Day weekend (May 27-28, 2023). The Hyundai Air & Sea Show begins each day at 12 p.m. with sea demonstrations by professional jet skiers, the ThunderCats boat racing exhibition and the Cigarette Offshore Powerboat Racing Demonstration. After the sea portion, look to the sky for our country’s state of the art military technology including Parachute teams, jet demonstrations, air and sea search and rescue exercises, and more. Families can enjoy the Florida Power and Light Display Village east of Lummus Park (Ocean Drive, 11th – 14th Street), which is over four-city-blocks long. The Florida Power and Light Display Village includes incredible flight and navigation simulators, tactical training equipment, rifle range simulators along with interactive displays from all branches of the U.S. Military including a U.S. Army M1A2 tank. Guests can meet the men and women of our armed forces and experience displays and booths from the Hyundai Air & Sea Show corporate sponsors including USA Boxing Exhibition, a Kid Zone, and the Monster Energy ActioZone, showcasing Keith Sayer’s FMX (Freestyle Motocross) demonstration team.
