Volcanic Sushi + Sake: an Eruption of Flavors

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On May - 2 - 2024


Volcanic Sushi + Sake  has managed to elevate the gastronomic landscape of Gainesville, Florida. Yes, you read it correctly, Gainesville- a place not typically associated with haute cuisine. However, impeccable taste(s) and flavors know no geographical boundaries.

From the moment you step into Volcanic Sushi, the ambiance exudes a sense of sophistication that one might not expect in this quaint Florida town. The minimalist yet stylish décor sets the stage for what can only be described as a culinary performance. A far cry from the casual eateries one might associate with college towns, Volcanic Sushi proves that style and substance can indeed coexist.

Now, let’s talk about the pièce de résistance – the sushi itself. The name “Volcanic Sushi” might sound dramatic, but rest assured, it lives up to the hype. The rolls are nothing short of art forms, each piece meticulously crafted to perfection. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite, proving that even in Gainesville, one can find a sushi experience that rivals those in the culinary capitals of the world.

The menu boasts a selection of rolls that go beyond the ordinary, showcasing creativity and innovation.  From the delicate dance of flavors in the “Eruption Roll” to the bold statements made by the “Lava Dragon Roll,” each dish is a testament to the chef’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional sushi. Volcanic Sushi’s loyal following has led to several specialty rolls being named after its regular guests. Our favorites include: Melissa Bites, Son’s Special, Alexander, Mark II, Newell Fox, and John I. Each bite we tasted was absolutely delightful. The sake selection is equally impressive, with each bottle carefully chosen to complement the unique flavors of the rolls.

Volcanic Sushi’s success is the result of the expertise and dedication of chef/owner, Nestor Espartero, whose official title is CEO and Chief Sushi Officer. It comes as no surprise that Espartero is a three time champion of Iron Chef Gainesville (2019,2020 and 2021) and double bronze medalist Sushi Master in a Miami Competition.

In addition to two Volcanic Sushi locations in Gainesville, Espartero has opened a Miami location. For his newest outpost, his vision is to own the most desired Asian Restaurant in the Cutler Bay area by providing outstanding quality innovative food, exceptional service and cleanliness. “Our mission is to bring great taste and happiness to each of our customers and to enhance the life of each or our staff members by providing them the right training and wisdom and to promote KAIZEN (a strong culture of constant improvement) as part of our daily lives.”

For more information about Volcanic Sushi, visit: https://www.volcanicsushisake.com.

Green Plate – Chic Asian Bistro in Doral

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On October - 31 - 2018

Green Plate Asian Bistro is a chic, farm/sea-to-grill Asian restaurant cuisine in the heart of Doral. Unsuspectingly stylish, Green Plate serves outstanding food and drinks in a lively setting. Premium meats and seafood are served a la carte and tapas style. Dishes include traditional recipes from all over Asia, utilizing seasonal ingredients- “cooked just one step short of craziness.” So expect delightful surprises.

Not to be missed are the Umami Dynamite Roll- a show stopper! The chemistry involved in this dish leads you to Umami which means “pleasant savory taste” in Japanese  The fried rice, created with the wok hei method “essence” to truly capture all of the flavor profiles.

If you can only visit Green Plate on one day of the week, head there on Sunday for brunch. Chef Jay Lam shares, “We are South Florida’s only high-end Asian buffet on Sundays. We offer a unique beverage program that combines artisan sake cocktails and molecular homemade sodas and all of the top dishes are included in the buffet menu.”

For more information and to make reservations, visit: http://www.greenplatebistro.com.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Kung Fu Kitchen & Sushi Presents Naked Sushi 

The most audacious restaurant in South Beach, Kung Fu Kitchen & Sushi at The Catalina Hotel & Beach Club on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, is taking Miami Spice to the next level with a daring and risqué, first-of-its-kind offer for food enthusiasts and sushi-lovers. During Miami Spice months of August and September, Kung Fu Kitchen & Sushi will be offering Naked Sushi – a concept unique to the South Beach Asian hotspot, and a term used to describe the restaurant’s offer of an attractive male or female that can be ordered to arrive at the table, stripped of any clothing and tastefully, but scantily dressed, horizontally, in an artistic platter of sushi and sashimi for up to 10 people.  Each mouthwatering “body” of strategically arranged fish, selected from the Kung Fu sushi menu, will entice even the most famished group of friends, and for an all-inclusive cost of $500 per human platter, it may even come with polite conversation during the meal. Reservations for Naked Sushi at Kung Fu Kitchen & Sushi can be made by calling 305.600.9572 or Morgan.Daly@southbeachgroup.com. General restaurant reservations can be made by calling 305.534.7905 or by visiting www.catalinasouthbeach.com/kungfukitchen.  Walk-ins are also welcome.

 

Lucky Strike Happy Hour 

For a night on a budget, Lucky Strike Miami offers tantalizing happy hour specials. Featured Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., the happy hour includes a variety of wine and spirits and a selection of appetizers. The venue also offers a late-night happy hour every Monday through Thursday 10:00 p.m. to 1:00a.m. Bowling prices start at $7.95 plus cost of shoe rental. For inquiries on hosting an event at Lucky Strike Miami, contact miamiparties@bowlluckystrike.com.

 

 

Sundaze Pool Party at HIGHBAR  

From 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., HIGHBAR at Dream South Beach makes a splash with its Icon Entertainment Sundaze Pool Party.  Miami locals are invited to the ultimate Sunday escape weekly at Dream South Beach’s rooftop oasis, where delicious cocktails, famed dishes and transcendent beats by resident DJ, DJ Angelo, take over. A full pool menu includes a Classic Grilled Cheese made with Gruyere cheese, an “Ugly Burger” with every topping under the sun, and a Popcorn Milkshake with salted brown butter and chocolate hazelnut crisps.  Daily drink specials include the heavenly “7 Deadly Sins” cocktails, adult popsicles and JELL-O shots.

 

Bubbles, Botox & Trunk Show  

Dr. Patty’s Dental, South Florida’s first dental spa, is teaming up with Lilac And Lilies Boutique to host their first annual Bubbles, Botox & Trunk Show soiree featuring an indulgent night of champagne-fueled shopping and beauty treatments.   The event will take place Thursday, August 9 from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m., and is open to the public. Guests will enjoy a pre-fall, fashion preview and trunk show from Lilac And Lilies Boutique featuring 15 percent off coveted designers such as Bailey 44, Parker, RaMona LaRue, Charlie Jade, Veronica M., Stop Staring!, House of Harlow 1960, Kendra Scott, French Connection, and Black Halo during the event. Complimentary mini-spa treatments, including massages, eyebrow threading/shaping and lash extensions by celebrity lasher Alicia Hunter will be available as well as promotionally priced fillers including Botox and Dysport treatments administered by Dr. Patty. To RSVP, please email Info@DrPattyDental.com or call 954-523-2400.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Exhale Mind Body Spa Launches Tata Harper Pure Facial 

Tata Harper the eco-friendly skin care line and Exhale Mind Body Spa are thrilled to announce the launch of the all natural Pure Facial with Tata Harper’s newly formulated back-bar products, available for aesthetician use only. The luxurious and may I say quite relaxing, facial consists of cleansing, exfoliation, beta hydroxyl, hyaluronic acid, collagen reinforcement, moisture retention, lipids, omegas and an infusion of antioxidants, all enjoyed with signature aromatherapy. (It will make you feel and look many years younger). Tata Harper products are also available for purchase at exhale locations. Founder Tata Harper redefined natural skincare with her eponymous line, which offers innovative products that are 100% natural and 100% effective. “Our mission to support overall well being with our nontoxic products that are results oriented, is very much in line with exhale’s mission,” says Harper. “We strive to encourage a healthier lifestyle for consumers everywhere through our business, and Exhale’s transformational programs and therapies work toward that as well.”; for more information on the skincare line, visit www.tataharperskincare.com or to schedule an appointment with Exhale Mind Body Spa, www.exhalespa.com

 

 

Nicky’s Week at RA Sushi

RA Sushi will host its eighth annual “Nicky’s Week” fundraiser Sunday, May 27, through Saturday, June 2, to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, one of the world’s premier centers for research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other deadly diseases since it opened 50 years ago. The Scottsdale-based restaurant and bar will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of a variety of menu items and beverages to St. Jude to help support the hospital’s lifesaving mission. Since its inception, Nicky’s Week has raised more than $943,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and RA Sushi hopes to surpass the $1 million mark this year.The special Nicky’s Week menu, available at RA Sushi in South Miami includes: Edamame, Tootsy Maki, Shrimp Nigiri, Pork Gyoza, Chicken Yakitori, Garlic Citrus Yellowtail Tapas, plus a variety of select beverages. All 25 RA Sushi locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Nevada and Texas will participate in the fundraiser.

 

 

 

 

City Theatre’s 17th Annual SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County proudly presents City Theatre’s 17th annual SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL, South Florida’s fast and furiously fun program of the nation’s hottest short plays, staged in the intimate Carnival Studio Theater (Ziff Ballet Opera House) from June 1 through17. Under the new direction of Producing Artistic Director John Manzelli, the sizzling 17th season of the company’s acclaimed SUMMER SHORTS FESTIVAL features fifteen performances of eight original short plays – some raucous, others innovative and poignant, but with the ultimate goal to make audiences laugh. Tickets are $35, and may be purchased through the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling 305.949.6722, or online at www.arshtcenter.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

RA Sushi Spring Luau Party

Throw on a Hawaiian print shirt and a lei and hula on over to RA Sushi in South Miami on March 22 from 8:00 p.m. to close for a Spring Luau Party. Sail away to an island paradise with beach themed décor, tropical food and drink specials, and a guest D.J. who will keep the tiki torches burning all night long. Enjoy a taste of the good life with RA’s Spring Luau Party specials. Try the Tropical Roll with cucumber, mango, and avocado, rolled and topped with spinach tempura bits, and spicy shrimp mixed with masago and mango salsa ($8). Munch on Pineapple Cheese Wontons, lightly fried wontons filled with cream cheese, scallions and pineapple, served with a roasted pineapple dipping sauce ($7). Savor the Spicy Pineapple Chicken, a mixture of ramen noodles, chicken, green and red bell peppers, onion, and a spicy chili sesame sauce, topped with black sesame seeds ($8). All of the Spring Luau Party cocktails are $8 each. Swim in to RA Sushi in South Miami afor some sun and fun. For more information, visit www.RAsushi.com.

 

Fairchild’s GardenMusic

Come and experience Fairchild’s GardenMusic Festival starting on Sunday, March 25. GardenMusic will bring the highest-quality and most exciting chamber music to South Florida by creating a powerfully immersive experience. By connecting music with the idyllic setting of Fairchild, musicians and other artistic disciplines will foster a collaborative and creative spirit and provide engaging and stimulating educational opportunities. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and engage with the musicians, experiencing music on an intimate and personal level. In addition, a series of concerts will allow for a more traditional chamber music experience surrounded by the beauty of Fairchild.  Members: Tent seating, general admission, $25; Subscription to all four concerts, $75; Concert for Kids, free; non-members: Tent seating, general admission, $40; Subscription to all four concerts, $120; Concert for Kids, $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up and $12 for children 6-17. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets at 305.667.1651, ext. 3358 or www.fairchildgarden.org/GardenMusic.
The Barton G. Kids Hear Now Foundation: Party Over Hear!


On Friday, March 30, join the Kids Hear Now Foundation for the first ever “Party Over Hear!” celebration. Hosted by the legendary DJ Irie, guests will enjoy complementary bites and spirits courtesy of the master chefs and mixologists at Barton G. The event runs from 9:00 p.m. to midnight at the exclusive Villa By Barton G. Tickets are $175 for general admission and $500 for VIP, which includes a sit-down dinner, exclusive access to the VIP lounge and special surprises throughout the evening. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kidshearnow.org.

 

 

 

Miami Children’s Museum 2012 Be A Kid Again Gala 

On Saturday, March 31at 6:30 p.m., the Miami Children’s Museum (MCM), will host its much anticipated 2012 Be A Kid Again Gala. This year’s 60s inspired theme, “All you need is love” will celebrate exceptional educational programming and showcase a far out live auction hosted by Dave Barry and Paul Castronovo. The night will also feature a one of a kind Silent Auction with a special Wine Auction chaired by Beverly and Bill Parker. Guests will groove the night away to a spectacular multimedia stage production by The Fab Four that will transport them back in time with iconic Beatles tunes. This year’s Be a Kid Again Gala will pay tribute to and honor renowned local artist, Romero Britto. MCM will honor Britto for his longstanding commitment and dedication to the Museum and to the children of South Florida.  All proceeds will benefit the Museum’s educational programming. For more information, contact Sarah Smith at 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 142 or ssmith@miamichildrensmuseum.org

Don’t Miss:

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On October - 5 - 2011

ONEHopePinkRollsSpecial_2ONEHOPE Pink Roll at RA Sushi

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, RA Sushi South Miami presents the ONEHOPE Wine and Pink Roll combination. For $15, patrons will enjoy a glass of ONEHOPE California Chardonnay and the Pink Roll:  shrimp, crab mix and combined with lettuce, avocado and cucumber wrapped in pink soy paper and served with a pink ribbon of strawberry sauce. All proceeds from the ONEHOPE Combination will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation® (NBCF).  This special will run from Saturday, October 1 through Monday, October 31. 

 

SOLE20LOGO Pink Package at Solé on the Ocean 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sunny Isles getaway Solé on the Ocean has created a special “Pink Package” benefitting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Affiliate. Guests who book the package during the month of October will receive a special rate on the hotel’s popular King Ocean View Room (single occupancy at $219; double occupancy at $229), a welcome pink Martini in Alba Lounge as well as a bottle of rosé Champagne and a pink M&Ms-styled amenity in-room upon arrival. Valet, resort fee, and all taxes are included in the price of the package.  A minimum of a two-night stay required; rates are based per room, per night. For more information, visit www.soleonthebeach.com.

 

JuernesI <3 Juernes at Cafeina

Cafeina Wynwood, is proud to present the launch of its “I <3 Juernes” party series, beginning on Thursday, October 6, at 9 p.m. The weekly happening, named after the Spanish-language fusion of “Jueves” and “Viernes”—Thursday and Friday—is devoted to celebrating the unofficial beginning of the weekend with an international twist. Guests will enjoy a variety of drink specials, DJs and live performances, each designed to fuel the festivities into the early morning hours. The initial installment will feature crossover beats by MTV Latin America’s in-house DJ sensation Mauricio Parra, who will set the tone for a night of dancing and revelry. A slew of specially priced spirits will be available. As an ode to age-old Latin machismo, groups of six or more ladies will receive a complimentary bottle of champagne. Last but not least, surprise guest musicians will take center stage in Cafeina’s outdoor garden to help patrons welcome Friday with a Miami-inspired soundtrack. For table reservations, contact info@cafeinamiami.com or call 305.438.0792.

 

Burger20Joint20LogoKids Eat Free in October at BGR Coral Gables

This October kids eat free every Wednesday at BGR The Burger Joint in Coral Gables and our favorite burger joint in town. The funky, rock n’ roll themed restaurant, known for innovative sandwiches made with top-quality ingredients, is offering a free kids meal with every purchase of a burger, fries and drink after 4 p.m. It’s a delicious dinner deal that will make both children and parents smile. Be sure to try the Wellington, which is prepared with black truffles and foie gras, or the Buffalo Blue (our personal favorite) or whatever the featured burger is. The special, which is for children under 12, consists of a soft drink, two delectable sliders or grilled cheese sandwiches and Yukon Gold fries, which can be topped with rosemary, garlic or parmesan for all those junior gourmands in training.  So aside from all this goodness, what sets BGR in the Gables apart from the zillion other burger joints in town? If you ask the kids, they will tell you it’s the state-of-the-art, $30, 000 Ferrari soda machine containing over 100 soda combinations. 

 

PrintVIPink at Soho Beach 

Ocean Drive magazine and Bright Pink will host a celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month for the ultimate “pink” cocktail party, VIPink. The event will be held on Thursday, October 6, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Soho Beach House.  The evening will feature a silent auction composed of luxury and lifestyle goods, “Bright-tini” cocktails by GREY GOOSE® Vodka as well as, wine, champagne and a variety of delectable desserts. Ocean Drive magazine is the exclusive media partner for VIPink Miami. All proceeds from the event will benefit Bright Pink’s educational and awareness programs. For additional details or to purchase tickets, visit: vipinkmiami11.eventbrite.com

 

ISA Boutique Breast Cancer Awareness ISA

ISA boutique in Midtown Miami is preparing to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Thursday, October 6, from 6 to 8 p.m., with their recently debuted monthly shopping party alongside host Annie Vazquez. Portions of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation; the boutique will also be accepting donations the entire month of October.  Enjoy on-site dry styling by Blo – Blow Dry Bar (www.blomedry.com), eco-friendly cocktails courtesy of VeeV (www.veevlife.com), VIP cards and more.

 

march of dimesSouth Florida’s Signature Chefs

One of South Florida’s most popular annual food and wine charity events, the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, will return for its 14th year on Thursday, October 6, featuring signature chefs from dozens of Miami’s most popular restaurants.  The event, presented by Goya Foods, will be held at The Westin Colonnade Coral Gables.  Celebrity Emcee Jackie Nespral of NBC 6 will host the evening and Dr. Deise Granado-Villar of Miami Children’s Hospital will be honored for her continuous support of the March of Dimes. VIP Tickets for the event are $250 per person, which includes admission to the exclusive VIP Champagne Reception at 6:30 p.m.  General Admission (7:30 p.m.) tickets are $150 per person.   All proceeds from the event benefit the March of Dimes.  For more event information and sponsorship opportunities, call 305.477.1192 or visit marchofdimes.com/florida.

 

walk by faithWalk by Faith with Mike Cardoso 

On Friday, October 7, The Stage will host a fundraiser to benefit Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso from 6 to 10 p.m. Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso is a charity to raise funds for stem cell advancement therapy.  A $15 donation includes appetizers and discounted drinks, along with live music by Jahfe.  Guests will also get a chance to bid on silent auction items including specialized sports memorabilia.  The event will be emceed by Jason Jackson from Miami Heat TV.  For more information, or to donate to Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso, visit:  www.supportmikecardoso.com.

 

62958190George Kotsiopoulos and Swarovski on Lincoln Road

On Tuesday, October 11, from 7 to 9 p.m., Swarovski on Lincoln Road, the leading designer and producer of fashion jewelry, celebrates Fall Fashion by hosting a style event with Fashion Expert George Kotsiopoulos.  The E! Style Expert will offer insider tips and celebrity red carpet style secrets, all while showcasing the latest trends in Fall Accessories. Refreshments will be provided; special gift with purchases over $150 (while supplies last).

 

Meat Market Wine Dinner

After two sold-out wine dinners this summer, Meat Market, Miami Beach’s contemporary American steakhouse, announces the third and final event in the 2011 series.  Organized by sommelier Sarah Almand and acclaimed chef/co-owner Sean Brasel, the final wine dinner will take place on Wednesday, October 19 at 7 p.m.  For the dinner, hosted by the United States Sommelier Association, Almand will pair Brasel’s modern American cuisine with 90 point plus bottles from California superstar producers. The reception & four-course dinner menu and correlating wines is priced at $95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations for the wine dinner are limited and can be made by calling 305. 532.0088.  www.meatmarketmiami.com.  

 

lights outLights Out Miami! 

On Thursday, October 20, chefs, servers and diners will be challenged to explore new approaches to fine dining in the dark, in a dynamic environment. Lights Out Miami presented by Ability Explosion – a non-profit organization committed to highlighting the capabilities of the differently-abled is breaking down barriers.  Service staff at all participating restaurants receive Orientation and Mobility Training sponsored by Miami Light House for the Blind.  This valuable component plays an important part in expanding the skills and the minds of the front line service providers while creating a fun and enlightening experience. Menus range in price from $55 – $135 depending on the restaurant and what is being offered.  Participating restaurants, tickets and information are available on line at www.AbilityExplosion.org.

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