Coral Gables July/August 2024

CORAL GABLES

JULY/AUGUST 2024

EXPERIENCE

THE POWER OF

Community

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty has been a trusted name in Coral Gables for over a half-century. Through the vision of Coral Gables’ founder, George Merrick, and the talented artisans who constructed the City we enjoy today, our Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty family has been privileged to be a part of our community’s ever-growing global tapestry.

The Palace spends a fortune designing and furnishing every new community to look like a Palace. There’s nothing else like it.

The staff is amazing. In fact, The Palace was rated Fortune’s #1 Workplace in Aging Services in the nation in 2023.

The Palace is not corporate-run. It’s family run, by Helen & Jacob Shaham and their two sons. The owners give you their personal phone number so you can call them about anything.

The Palace invests in the newest and the most innovative technologies. That’s why we have our own Oculus Virtual Reality so residents can visit any place in the world virtually. And we are the only senior community in South Florida with our own hyperbaric chamber for oxygen therapy.

Nothing is typical. And almost everything that goes into this remarkable life they give us is included.

Your Sanctuary on the Bay

Designed by internationally acclaimed Robert A.M. Stern Architects, The St. Regis Residences, Miami are situated along the beautiful coastline of South Brickell, with exquisite bayfront views, a private marina, and an exclusive fine-dining restaurant by MICHELIN-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi. The Residences offer a lifetime of legendary moments — a place where the history and heritage of a timeless brand enable a signature way of life, propelled by impeccable service and unparalleled connoisseurship.

Demolition has commenced 1809 Brickell Avenue, Miami, Florida 33129 Schedule an appointment 786 544 8010 MiamiSRR.com

by

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ARTIST’S CONCEPTUAL RENDERING; SURROUNDING BUILDINGS AND LANDMARKS MODIFIED OR OMITTED. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN A CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFEROR. FILE NO. CP23-0071. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. St. Regis Residences, Miami a/k/a 1809 Brickell Condominium. The St. Regis Residences, Miami is developed by 1809 Brickell

International, Inc. or its affiliates (“Marriott”). Developer uses the St. Regis marks under a

BITES

Sushi

“The Miami Dolphins and Baptist Health are doing a great job serving our local high schools.”

Francisco Garcia

You can support valuable community health programs. BaptistHealth.net/GenerosityHeals or 786-467-5400.

Francisco Garcia, a Physician Assistant, Certified for Baptist Health Orthopedic Care, volunteers as part of the Baptist Health Youth Athletic Outreach Program. “We perform health screenings for our local student-athletes on and off the field to prevent catastrophic injuries,” he says. He also assists athletic trainers at Miami-Dade high school football games. “We work together supporting the well-being of the athletes,“ he adds.

Despite the long hours, often covering two games after work, Francisco finds the program very rewarding. “We see all this young talent in our area who end up going into Division 1A colleges and professional sports. It makes you feel proud as a provider to care for our youth athletes,” he says. “They are able to continue healthy athletic careers thanks to this program.”

The Youth Athletic Outreach Program is funded by generous donors including the Miami Dolphins, and Francisco is grateful for the partnership. “This program is so helpful,” he says. “I’d like to see it grow so we so we can support more youth in the community.”

Photo by Lynn Parks

THE BEST OF CORAL GABLES

Coral Gables is nothing if not a city of superlatives. As any resident will tell you, it’s the best city in South Florida, if not the entire state. Each year, we look at the city in terms of its unique attributes, an atomistic look at the particulars of dining, entertainment, public spaces, retail options, services, and culture. see what you think, and let us know how close we came to picking your top choices in this array of The Best of Coral Gables.

MR. MERRICK’S ORDERLY LAWS

George Merrick’s meticulously planned Coral Gables, conceived a century ago, continues to be influenced by his visionary ideas – and by the laws that he implemented. We did a deep dive to see what strange ordinances are still on the books today and discovered a fascinating interplay between the City’s beginnings and the regulations that continue to shape our community.

DRINKING IN THE GABLES

The presence of alcohol in the City Beautiful has evolved by leaps and bounds since its early Prohibition days. Any visitor to downtown Coral Gables on a Friday Gallery Night, navigating the crowds, would be surprised to learn that Coral Gables has long been a “dry city.” No bars are permitted within city limits and alcohol is only supposed to be served in establishments that “primarily” serve food.

The Best of Times, the Worst of Times

This is one of the most fun issues we do each year, because we get to write about the best things in a city filled with best things. We have such an embarrassment of riches here, with culture, refinement, and beauty everywhere.

Well, not exactly everywhere. The blemish on the rose has been the relentless demise of decorum at City Hall, where an alliance of three commissioners now rules with increasingly unhinged decisions and bad behavior.

If you don’t follow city politics, here is the scene: in April of last year, Commissioners Ariel Fernandez and Melissa Castro were elected with a historically low voter turnout. Fernandez, whose snarky Gables Insider blog continually attacked city policies, was determined to overturn “the establishment.” At his first commission meeting, he tried to fire the city manager, but was foiled by the swing vote of Commissioner Kirk Menendez, who was initially opposed to Fernandez’s election. (Castro, elected on Fernandez’s coattails, follows his lead on most votes.)

Then, something changed. Menendez was joined by Fernandez and Castro 3-2 to give themselves a 100 percent pay raise, with no public notice and despite opposition from Mayor Vince Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson. Ever since, Menendez has voted with Fernandez and Castro – including switching for a shameful 3-2 vote to oust highly competent City

Manager Peter Iglesias. No reason given.

The shameful 3-2 votes continued, most notably with the hiring of current City Manager Amos Rojas, Jr., a retired federal marshal with no background in civil administration, finance, or municipal construction projects. Nada. Instead of a nationwide search, Rojas was nominated by Fernandez and voted in the same day, with no vetting. Why? To end the “cesspool of corruption” at City Hall, declared Menendez. Rojas has since uncovered no corruption – and done little else, except leave work daily at 3 pm and collect a $300,000-a-year salary.

Which leads us to the latest bizarre 3-2 by the troika. At the June City Commission meeting, they voted against hiring an inspector general to investigate corruption. Instead, they deferred that hire until the city charter is revised, more than a year from now. Why? Neither Fernandez nor Menendez answered our query. Our guess? That an investigation would find no merit to their baseless charges.

As for continuing damage to the city, here is the latest: With an arrogant claim they could do a better job representing the city than the mayor in the city’s annual pilgrimage to secure state funding, the troika went to Tallahassee and brought back… zero. Last year, Mayor Lago and Vice Mayor Anderson brought back a record $3.48 million. The worst of times, indeed.

JP FABER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CORAL GABLES MAGAZINE

CORAL GABLES

Cover: The Best of Coral Gables 2024. Readers’ favorites in cuisine, culture, shopping, and entertainment.

CEO & PUBLISHER

Richard Roffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

J.P. Faber

EVP / PUBLISHER

Gail Scott

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amy Donner

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Monica Del Carpio-Raucci

VP SALES

Sherry Adams

MANAGING EDITOR

Kylie Wang

DIGITAL EDITOR

Natalia Clement

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Pari Walter

Luke Chaney

Maya Rego

ART DIRECTOR

Jon Braeley

SENIOR WRITERS

James Broida

Andrew Gayle

Doreen Hemlock

Katelin Stecz

Mike Clary

PROOFREADER

Lesley Fonger

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodolfo Benitez

Jonathan Dann

Jorge Oviedo

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Toni Kirkland

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

CircIntel

OFFICIAL FRAMER

Adam Brand / Frames USA

Coral Gables Magazine is published monthly by City Regional Media, 1200 Anastasia Ave. Suite 115, Coral Gables FL 33134. Telephone: (305) 995-0995. Copyright 2024 by City Regional Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Send address changes to subscriptions@coralgablesmagazine.com. General mailbox email and letters to editor@ coralgablesmagazine.com.

Each month, we print letters we receive from our readers. We encourage all commentary, including criticism as well as compliments, and, of course, any commentary about our community. If you are interested in writing to us with your opinions, thoughts, or suggestions, please send them to letters@coralgablesmagazine.com. Letters may be edited for brevity.

Time for the Arts to Rally!

On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, the Coral Gables Museum became the founding site of the newly formed Coral Gables Arts Alliance. In attendance were the artistic and managing directors of nationally lauded institutions such as Actors’ Playhouse, Coral Gables Art Cinema, Coral Gables Museum, Frost School of Music at University of Miami, GableStage Theatre Company, Alhambra Orchestra, Coral Gables Community Foundation, Miami Chamber Music Society, the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, the Coral Gables Congregational Church Community Arts Program, Books & Books, and Sanctuary of the Arts. The historic meeting came to fruition in response to a unanimous vote by the Coral Gables City Commission to include in the City’s 2026-2029 Strategic Plan “a focus area or goal” related specifically to cultural arts and the marketing of cultural arts in the City.

Overcoming differences, the collective vision and foresight of the City Commission – Mayor Vince Lago, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson, Commissioner Ariel Fernandez, Commissioner Melissa Castro, and Commissioner Kirk Menendez – rose to the occasion in support of the citizenship of the City Beautiful with what empirical data concludes are vast gains in the social and economic impact of an artist-rich community. Among these are safer neighborhoods, increased civic and community engagement, increased real estate values, increases in tourism, increased employment opportunities, and so forth.

In remarkable irony, on the same day, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million dollars for Florida’s Cultural and Museum Grants and Cultural Facilities Grants, leaving over 577 arts organizations and 33 facilities across the state scrambling to emergency meetings to brace for the devasting impact. Sadly, and unaware to the governor, the greater tragedy is not limited to the affected organizations, but more importantly, to the millions of customers in communities among the state – including many of his own constituents.

The first time I spoke to the City Commission in support of this resolution, I stressed how encouraged I felt to work in a city where its elected officials demonstrated such passionate accountability to the citizens they represent. They did not let us down,

and we can only hope that Coral Gables will inspire and serve as a model across Florida, even the nation, to take upon themselves the responsibility to protect the communities they serve.

Rafi Maldonado-Lopez Managing Director, Sanctuary of the Arts

Support Live Theater

If you had a chance to watch the recent Tony Awards ceremony on TV, you may be as inspired as I am by the importance of live theatre. As the founding executive director of Actors’ Playhouse, I have seen firsthand the value of what we have accomplished for the betterment of our community through over 200 Mainstage and 200 professional Children’s Theatre performances in 36 years, as well as arts education for over 2.5 million young people.

We have seen that theatrical performances can make you laugh as well as cry, with each experience leaving you with compelling, thought-provoking social meaning. Art reflects society and provides explanations and understanding for real-life situations. Art crosses boundaries and can unite people from all walks of life and cultures. Art is motivating, inspiring, and allows us to evaluate our own disposition and attitude. Art has reflected our evolutions for centuries, holding true to the grandness of learning and problem-solving for the betterment of mankind.

As you may be aware, the governor is slashing arts funding in the coming year for arts organizations, which translates to a serious loss of income for our organization. Your subscription, membership, and philanthropy

will be especially meaningful at this time. Please be an Actors’ Playhouse supporter in the coming year by subscribing, donating to the Actors’ Playhouse Fund, and sharing your applause in our audience.

On behalf of my entire team, I thank those who have already shared their support, and I extend my gratitude to those who will join us as we embark on our next journey and the exciting and iconic 37th season. We look forward to welcoming you at the Miracle Theatre for another great cultural event, which we pledge to present at the highest artistic level.

Barbara Stein

Executive Producing Director, Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre

Tough Times Ahead for the Arts

It has been a difficult time at GableStage as we fell victim to the heartless power of a veto pen during the state budgeting process. GableStage and more than 376 other Florida arts and culture institutions were removed from the 2024/25 state budget. It’s a loss of $32 million to organizations that promote creativity, a sense of gathering and belonging, and drive economic development and growth in our communities. This situation – the one where the value of arts in our communities is not supported – is difficult for our nonprofit organization; this is the work we believe in –and bringing people together for the purpose of experiencing regional theatre takes money and resources. As an organization, we are now expected to find this money someplace else; or worse, eliminate something meaningful from our plans.

Bari Newport

Producing Artistic Director, GableStage

Streetwise

Talk of the Town

See Page 22

PLUS THE LATEST FROM CITY HALL

COMMISSIONER ON THE HOT SEAT FROM MAIN STREET TO WALL STREET

CASSIA, A NEW BOUTIQUE CONDOMINIUM BY ALTA DEVELOPERS, HAS GIFTED THE CITY A $3,000 CASSIA TREE.

From City Hall

At its meeting in June, the Coral Gables City Commission:

HONORS FOR JEANNETT

Voted 5-0 to name the thoroughfare where the Gables Family Literacy Festival is held (located parallel to University Drive within the Youth Center) in honor of former Commissioner Jeannett Slesnick. Commissioner Fernandez sponsored the item, requesting it be named “Commissioner Jeannett Slesnick Literacy Row” to reflect the late commissioner’s dedication to literacy for all.

POLICE CONTRACT OKAYED

Voted 5-0 to ratify the collective bargaining agreement between the City and the Fraternal Order of Police in Coral Gables. The long-awaited two-year agreement sees significant salary increases, better pensions, and other benefits for the police officers of Coral Gables.

ADA RAMP FOR THE MIRACLE THEATRE

Voted 3-2 to authorize $41,900 for the installation of a new ADA-compliant ramp at the Miracle Theatre. The issue became controversial after Commissioner Menendez introduced it in May, with questions about why the City was footing the bill when the lease made it clear that the tenant (Actors’ Playhouse) should pay for it. Playhouse Executive Producing Director Barbara Stein appeared at the meeting, arguing that funding needed to be approved soon so improvements could occur when the theater would be closed for other maintenance. Vice Mayor Anderson spoke in favor of trying to fundraise for the project or treating it as a loan, concerned the precedent would lead to similar requests from other city property tenants. That suggestion was voted down by Commissioners Fernandez, Castro, and Menendez.

The discussion grew heated when Commissioners Fernandez and Menendez argued with City Attorney Cristina Suarez that they had already approved the $41,900 at the last meeting. Suarez read the previous meeting’s transcript into the record to show that Commissioner Fernandez himself had clarified that the item should come back to the Commission. An emotional Menendez took to shouting, crying out, “We’re letting politics dictate the day and I’m not going to allow it!”

HISTORIC PROPERTIES FUNDING

Voted 5-0 to amend the 2023-2024 budget to include roughly $2.68 million in revenue from the sale of transfers of historic property development rights. Half a million will go to the Coral Gables Museum, $150,000 to the Merrick House, and about $1 million each to the Venetian Pool and the Alhambra Water Tower. Commissioner

Kirk Menendez and Mayor Lago requested that the allocation for the Merrick House be increased from $75,000 to $150,000 for repairs and renovations the historic property needs. The extra $75,000 will come from the monies allocated to the Venetian Pool.

A BLOGGER ONBOARD

Voted 4-1 to appoint Javier Banos, editor of the online blog Gables Insider, to the Historic Preservation Board. Commissioner Ariel Fernandez, who sold the blog to Banos upon his election, nominated the blogger. Mayor Vince Lago was the sole dissenter, expressing concerns about Banos’ expertise and his credibility and political agenda as a journalist/blogger.

A DELAY FOR AN INSPECTOR GENERAL

Voted 3-2 against immediately establishing an Office of Inspector General to investigate corruption in the city. Surprisingly, the no votes came from Commissioners Ariel Fernandez, Melissa Castro, and Kirk Menendez, all of whom have previously accused the city of corruption without evidence. Mayor Lago and Vice Mayor Anderson both argued that establishing such an office now would clear the air. “There is strong support for this in the community. If we don’t move forward today, it appears that we’re trying to hide something,” said Anderson. Instead, the Commission voted 5-0 to wait to establish an Office of Inspector General through the city charter, which is a year away from being amended. Commissioners Castro, Fernandez, and Menendez argued that establishing the office via the Commission would allow it to be dissolved by the Commission. Lago and Anderson reluctantly voted for the amended resolution despite believing that the process was being delayed without reason, saying it wasted a year’s worth of time instead of “sending a message” of honesty and transparency now.

BICYCLE LANES MOVE FORWARD, SLOWLY

Voted 5-0 to design bicycle lanes on Alhambra Circle from Bird Road to the University of Miami. The discussion went on for some time as Vice Mayor Anderson, who sponsored the item, outlined her reasoning for the creation of bike lanes along this road in the wake of the death of University of Miami student Daniel Bishop. Bishop was using an electronic scooter on a street without bicycle lanes when he was struck and killed by a vehicle. To get public input, Anderson and a team of volunteers knocked on doors along Alhambra Circle and received extremely positive responses from residents in the area. Commissioner Castro nonetheless expressed concerns over public input. There will now be a community meeting in November to receive further input from residents, at which time there may be funding from a state grant application. ■

ALHAMBRA WATER TOWER AWARDED $1 MILLION

On the Hot Seat

COMMISSIONER MELISSA CASTRO’S PERMIT EXPEDITING BUSINESS MAY LAND HER IN HOT WATER

BY KYLIE WANG

It appears that Coral Gables Commissioner Melissa Castro has finally reached the end of a year’s long journey through the county ethics code with increasingly worrying results.

Upon her election, the commissioner filed a request for an opinion from the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust (COE) as to whether she could serve both as a commissioner and as the owner and operator of her permit expediting firm, M.E.D. Expeditors. Therein followed a year’s worth of hemming and hawing without much opining, until a draft opinion was finally released a few months ago – which was then promptly discarded as too ambiguous. However, on June 12, the COE finally approved a version of that opinion with clearer language.

The opinion states that “an official and [their] private company employees may represent clients engaging with the official’s city,” but only if that contact is “limited to ministerial matters or simple informational requests.” Any type of advocacy that involves decision-making or discretionary action is strictly prohibited. In an effort to further clarify this, examples of prohibited actions were also given to the commissioner, including: seeking zoning modifications, variances, or modifications to plans or permits from municipal staff or boards; seeking to reinstate an expired permit or process number; seeking the assignment of a particular building official to a project; and representing code violators at appeal hearings or settlement negotiations before municipal staff or boards.

Simply put, this vastly limits the powers of M.E.D. Expeditors, which has been doing most – if not all – of these things. That, indeed, is why clients seek its services. On its website under “Services,” the company lists things like “expired permits,” “permit revisions,” and “legalizations” for “work done without a permit and currently facing legal disputes,” all of which raise eyebrows in the wake of the COE’s opinion. Going forward, how M.E.D. and Commissioner Castro plan

COMMISSIONER MELISSA CASTRO ENTERS THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT

to handle clients who are in violation of the city’s code or who must modify permits when M.E.D. is specifically prohibited from representing or advocating for them is a puzzle only they can answer.

Meanwhile, emails obtained by Coral Gables Magazine between M.E.D. employees and city staff show that, at least historically, the company has been doing just those things. In a March 25 email to the city’s Deputy Building Official Manuel Lopez, one M.E.D. employee specifically requested “assistance in [regard to] an early start” for a permit as “it would be a great help to avoid any delays.”

Another email to Zoning Reviewer Elisa Darna states, “We wanted to reach out again on behalf of the owner to kindly request your assistance regarding the pending review,” going on to outline the owner’s “hardships due to the delay” of the permit’s approval. Still another email to city staff requests an urgent meeting to discuss a client’s “desperate situation.” All of this points to an expediting firm doing exactly what they’re supposed to be doing (namely, advocating for their clients) – but doing exactly the opposite of what a sitting commissioner and her company are supposed to be doing, according to the Ethics Commission.

Commissioner Castro, meanwhile, has alleged that her colleague Mayor Vince Lago is behind at least two complaints filed against her for unethical behavior related to her case. The COE does not release materials related to complaints as per state law and would not confirm or deny the existence of any. When contacted by Coral Gables Magazine, Lago denied filing these complaints. Asked to comment on the Ethics Commission's opinion, Commissioner Castro called it “a resounding victory.” But for whom? ■

ABOVE: THE CORAL GABLES CITY COMMISSION

RIGHT:

Talk of the Town

“Mean Girls” Goes Miami

Twenty years ago, the instant classic “Mean Girls” was released in theaters starring Lindsey Lohan, Amanda Seyfried, and Rachel McAdams as the iconic “mean girl” Regina George. This year, the film got the Hollywood treatment with a reboot starring Reneé Rapp, the singer-songwriter and actress who played the role of Regina in the Broadway musical adaptation. What you probably don’t know is that, in the film, the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music got a short cameo in the form of one background “band geek” character repping the school on his sweatshirt. Thrilled students and alumni of Frost packed theaters to watch the film in the very same dark green sweatshirts, which were handed out for free. “There are going to be millions of people who are going to see that image of us in a hit movie associated with a serious music student,” said Dean Shelton Berg. “That’s an opportunity to build our reputation outside of our higher ed bubble to catch up with the fact that we are one of the world’s greatest music schools.” – Kylie Wang

Another Tech Boost

We attend the theater to see live performances, not video. But a key part of any theater experience is the staging. While Actors’ Play-

house at the Miracle Theatre has a huge space where multiple sets can be rotated, GableStage is far more constricted by the intimacy of its small stage. Anyone who attended GableStage this last season had to be impressed, however, with their superb use of digital art. Thanks in large part to a grant last year from the Knight Foundation, audiences were wowed with projected images and sound effects in productions such as “The Lehman Trilogy.” This year, they got another such boost, named in June for a second time as a Knight Foundation “Art + Tech Fund” recipient. This year’s $70,000 grant will further enhance the theater company’s audio-visual capabilities. “The merger of technology with the arts allows GableStage to continue to transcend traditional stage boundaries and truly immerse audiences,” says Bari Newport, GableStage’s producing artistic director. – JP Faber

Ecuadorians for Rick Scott

Florida Senator Rick Scott announced the “Ecuadorians for Rick Scott” coalition last month at Coral Gables’ new Ecuadorian restaurant, La Pata Gorda, on Miracle Mile. Supported by Ecuadorian community leaders, Scott’s stop in the City Beautiful, geared toward reelection, emphasized his efforts to strengthen economic relations between the U.S. and Ecuador. During the event, Scott recounted stories of his visit to the South American country, where he met

GABLESTAGE RECEIVED A GRANT TO

with President Daniel Noboa and other officials to discuss trade and safety. Other actions the senator has taken to support the community include promoting Ecuador’s fresh-cut roses in the U.S. GSP Program; advocating for sanctions against corrupt officials, including former Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa; and issuing a bipartisan statement in support of the Ecuadorian people and government as they deal with national violence from gangs and cartels. La Pata Gorda owner Josué Sánchez praised Scott’s business-friendly policies. “We believe food is a celebration of culture, tradition, and community, just like Florida. That’s why there’s no better place than the Sunshine State to open and grow a business,” Sánchez said. —

Natalia Clement

UM President Moves On

After nine years as president of the University of Miami, Julio Frenk is stepping down to be become the next chancellor of UCLA. Frenk, the first Hispanic president of UM and the former Mexican minister of health, is credited with his adept stewardship of the university during the pandemic, when UM was one of less than a third of U.S. higher education institutes to carry on with both in-person and remote instruction. Under Frenk, UM grew in prestige as a research university, attaining membership in the elite Association of American Universities. Only three percent of the four-year institutions in the U.S. belong to the AAU, whose members produce 51 percent of all research doctorates. Much of that research came through the Miller School of Medicine and UHealth, whose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center received the prestigious National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation under Frenk. Some critics were not happy with Frenk, however, who let UM’s overall rank in the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges slip from 48 in 2015 to 67 in 2024. – JP Faber

A Model Grandma

Coral Gables resident Gloria Mantell Pallot is redefining what it means to age gracefully. The 96-year-old recently dropped jaws and turned heads walking in her first ever runway show at Miami Swim Week in South Beach. Dressed in a blue one-piece bathing suit and on the arms of two muscular male models, Pallot strutted her stuff for sustainable fashion brand Love for Upcycling, earning cheers

and, reportedly, at least one cat call. Back in the ’40s, the now-grandmother of four was a beauty queen at the University of Miami. Today, she’s the oldest person to ever walk during Swim Week. She told local media her secret to longevity is “a positive attitude” and a commitment to health and exercise. – Kylie Wang

Hero Firefighters Save Sea Turtle

On Monday, June 3, a juvenile green sea turtle washed ashore at Matheson Hammock Park, severely entangled in fishing line and fighting for its life. A nearby Good Samaritan quickly notified two lieutenants from the Coral Gables Fire Department, who rushed to the scene alongside the Miami-Dade Sea Turtle Conservation to provide aid. The turtle was then transported to the Marathon Turtle Hospital, where it received treatment. “Thank you to the citizen and these important wildlife organizations!” wrote the Gables Fire Department in an Instagram post, which also urged its followers to call the Miami Dade Sea Turtle Conservation should they discover a distressed turtle. According to the program’s website, those who stumble upon a turtle in poor condition should follow instructions given by the conservation’s staff, who will report to the scene as soon as possible. – Luke Chaney

GLORIA MANTELL PALLOT REDEFINES WHAT IT MEANS TO AGE

JULIO FRENK RETIRES FROM UM

Josie Wang

7 Bed | 6.5 Bath | 10,496 Total SF | 41,382 SF Lot Spectacular Custom Acre Estate in Miami.

5 Bed | 5.5 Bath | 5,095 Total SF 12,000 SF Lot | Gables by the Sea Waterfront with No Bridges to Bay and Direct Ocean Access.

7 Bed | 8.5 Bath | 9,003 Total SF 38,768 SF Lot | New Construction. Striking and Transitional Modern Pinecrest Estate Home.

7 Bed | 8 Bath | 13,368 Total SF 48,351 SF Lot | New Construction. Timeless Vernacular, Classic Architecture with Extraordinary Craftsmanship.

Pretty in Pink

If you want to win the hearts and minds of Coral Gables, there probably isn’t a better way than to donate a tree to the city, especially one as lovely as the pink-blooming Cassia. With 38,000 trees in its database, the city is fairly obsessed with its canopy; originally envisioned as a Garden City, the Gables is today recognized as a Tree City USA, easily meeting the standards set by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Now comes Cassia, a new boutique condominium by Alta Developers on the edge of the Merrick Park District. To commemorate the launch of their eponymous project, Alta gifted the city a $3,000 cassia tree, which will be planted later this summer next to the Alhambra Water Tower. Such trees are scattered across the city, where they bloom each summer with stunning pink blossoms. “We are honored to support Coral Gables’ Tree Trust Fund and do our part to further awareness of the many environmental, economic, social, and communal benefits of planting trees,” said Raimundo Onetto, principal and CEO of Alta Developers. Spoken like a true Gablelite. – JP Faber

Cannabis Row

Florida has not legalized non-medical marijuana use, and it’s difficult to get a license to grow it here, even for medical use. But it’s good to know that one of the experts in growing marijuana, should the need arise, is headquartered here in Coral Gables. DAG, a leader in the construction of pot growing and processing facilities, has just been awarded a $14 million contract to add 27,314-square-feet to the indoor cannabis cultivation compound of Ascension Biomedical in Oberlin, Ohio. Recreational use of marijuana is permitted in Ohio, BTW. – JP Faber

Grants for the Community

Each year since 2014, the Coral Gables Community Foundation has bestowed grants to nonprofits that contribute to quality of life in the city. In all, the Foundation has issued more than 466 grants worth over $1 million. This year, it awarded a record $230,000 to 51 groups, as well as 11 local artists. Among the recipients were Actors’ Playhouse for a production of “A Christmas Carol” ($2,500), the Coral Gables Art Cinema for the Children’s Film Festival ($5,000), and the Coral Gables Woman’s Club for improvement to their free dental clinic for underprivileged kids ($2,000). “We believe these 51 grants and 11 artist awards are investments that have the potential to make South Florida a better place to live, work, learn, and play,” said realtor Ashley Cusack, who co-chaired the giving program with F. David Olazabal. New this year were the grants to artists, thanks to $55,000 donated to the Corral & Cathers Professional Artist Fund by Mosaicist CEO Ray Corral. “We give these grants to individuals rather than organizations, to real artists who are involved with the city,” says Corral. “Everything revolves around the city.” – JP Faber ■

L-R: ARTIST AURORA MOLINA, CITY CULTURE SPECIALIST CATHERINE CATHERS, DONOR RAY CORRAL, ARTIST MARISA TELLERIA, FOUNDATION CEO MARY SNOW, AND MICHELLE GRILLONE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MARINER WEALTH ADVISORS.

PINK-BLOOMING CASSIA TREE GIFTED TO THE CITY

From Wall Street to Main Street

WHY AL MAULINI SET UP SHOP ON THE PEDESTRIAN MILE

BY KYLIE WANG

Wealth management firms typically establish their offices in rarefied spaces far removed from the hubbub of pedestrian thoroughfares. Al Maulini’s idea is different.

Maulini has been many things in his life: dog rescuer, barbershop owner, real estate “dabbler,” and amateur sommelier, to name a few. But one thing he’s always been is a wealth manager. The 62-year-old has been in the industry for 40 years now, working for firms like Morgan Stanley, HSBC, and Wachovia. But it wasn’t until he opened (and eventually sold) his Well Groomed Gentleman barbershop on Miracle Mile that he saw the power of walk-in business. So why not for wealth management?

“I wanted to go independent and have my own boutique practice,” Maulini says, but didn’t know where. Then, while having a coffee at Panera Bread one day, he saw that the building next door was for sale. He knew that being on the Mile had generated “a lot of exposure” for his barbershop across the street, including up to 400 new walk-in customers per month, many of whom became regulars. A lightbulb blinked on.

“It’s a storefront, which is unusual [in this industry],” Maulini says of the space he ended up buying, which is bookended by Panera Bread and Kettal furniture. He calls it Private Wealth Management of Coral Gables (PWMCG for short). Walking past, you might have noticed the ticker tape relaying information on the financial markets, or the poster of the golden New York “Charging Bull” statue that symbolizes Wall Street. Here, potential clients can literally walk in off the street, rather than having to make an appointment and wait in a stuffy lobby. That alone makes it unique, but Maulini says it’s the service his nine-man team offers that makes it special.

“Our client accounts range from a minimum of $250,000 to much larger accounts,” he says. “Clients at Private Wealth Management of Coral Gables get personalized financial plans and portfolio management regardless of their wealth.” A typical advisor for a smaller account “is probably just going to sell you a couple of mutual funds,” he explains. “You’re not going to have your own portfolio designed for you like the $20 million investor gets.”

PWMCG is also aligned with Raymond James, where Maulini worked. Raymond James holds the licenses and provides full compliance and research services. “Everything that a Raymond James employee would have, we have as an independent contractor,” Maulini says, but because of the nature of his boutique practice, he can offer more personalized service.

Part of that means connecting with the community. “Our goal is to promote local charities that we love, and we do that through events here,” he says. “My passion is helping children, seniors, and animals” – including, of course, those ignorant of the often-unforgiving world of finance. And as for brining Wall Street to Main Street, Maulini says that if his Miracle Mile venue wins a half-dozen new clients a month it will be worth it. ■

“I WANTED TO GO INDEPENDENT AND HAVE MY OWN BOUTIQUE FIRM, BUT DIDN’T KNOW WHERE... ” AL MAULINI

786.981.6085

Living Best Bets for July-August Page 32

Best Bets for July-August

A GABLES FOURTH CELEBRATION

Join your friends and neighbors at the Biltmore Hotel for the City of Coral Gables’ annual Fourth of July celebration featuring a fireworks display and live music. Grounds open at 5 pm, the concert begins at 7 pm, and fireworks start at 9 pm. Limited free parking will be available at 5 pm at Municipal Garage 4, but guests are encouraged to arrive by bike to the Biltmore Hotel, where bike valet parking will be provided. (We won’t tell if you park on the nearby swales either.) The free event will also include food trucks, though attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic-friendly materials, including drinks, food, chairs, and blankets. 1200 Anastasia Ave. coralgables.com

“PETER RABBIT AND THE GARDEN OF DOOM”

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents this lighthearted children’s musical about the famous Peter Rabbit, who adores all things green and leafy. Unfortunately for him, Mother Rabbit only serves him and his three sisters cakes and cookies. Follow along as Peter trades his sweets for vegetables and follows a mysterious path to discover the source of his beloved produce. The production is about an hour long and runs from Thursday, July 11 to Saturday, July 27 with performances on Saturdays at 2 pm and a special sensory inclusive show on Sunday, July 14 at 2 pm. Tickets cost $25. 280 Miracle Mile. actorsplayhouse.org

SENSORY FRIENDLY FOURTH OF JULY

For those with autism and sensory-related needs who don’t enjoy the crowds and lights of the Biltmore’s Fourth of July celebration,

there is also a sensory-friendly celebration nearby at Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park. On July 4 from 7 to 10 pm, this celebration will feature an indoor quiet area, light-up games, bubbles, and crafts. To cap the night off, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Biltmore fireworks display, which is set to begin at 9 pm. On-site parking is available, and guests are welcome to bring food and non-alcoholic refreshments. For registration assistance, call 305.441.5650 or email PlayForAll@coralgables.com. Tickets are $25 and space is limited. 3940 Granada Blvd.

MANGO FESTIVAL

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s annual Mango Festival is here! This highly anticipated event features an exciting lineup of mango-themed activities, including cooking demos, mango tastings and lectures, live music, and lawn games. Participants will also have an opportunity to sample mango-based smoothies, cocktails, and other menu items and even purchase mango seedlings for their own backyards. The festival runs all-day from Saturday, July 13 through Sunday, July 14. Tickets start at $24.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors, and $11.95 for children ages six to 17. 10901 Old Cutler Rd. fairchildgarden.org

UNDERGROUND MILLENNIAL CLUB

Overwhelmed at the office? You’re certainly not alone. Kick back, relax, and tap into your competitive side with the Underground Millennial Club at the Coral Gables Branch Library on Wednesday, July 17 from 6 to 7:30 pm. Compete in board and improvisational games, test your trivia knowledge, and more! Contact the branch at 305.442.8706 or capleybr@mdpls.org for more information. This event is for ages 19 and up. 3443 Segovia St. mdpls.org

“HUNDRED

DAYS”

Running from Wednesday, July 17 to Sunday, August 4, enjoy “Hundred Days,” an exhilarating musical about embracing uncertainty and

Top producer Mauricio J. Barba has been a mainstay in Miami’s uber competitive high-end real estate market since 1994. Respected in his native community by clients and colleagues alike; he has logged top honors for elite performance in his field. Mauricio is connected worldwide but specializes in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Brickell, Village of Pinecrest, South Miami, Palmetto Bay/ Falls area and the Beaches. His expertise is demonstrated through his ability to facilitate trouble-free transactions winning him clients for life who also become friends.

Mauricio enters every room with confidence and professional approachability. But more importantly he is prepared and precise, saving you time and effort. Clients rely on him to deliver and he takes the responsibility very seriously. “People trust me with their single largest asset. It’s a role that drives me to push for excellence every day. I give 110% because my success is their success.”

making the most of life. “Hundred Days” asks the terrifying and yet thrilling question: If you only had 100 days left to live, what would you do with them? See the two-hour production at the Miracle Theatre Wednesday through Sunday at 8 pm or during special matinee performances on Wednesdays at 2 pm and Sundays at 3 pm. Tickets range from $40 to $75. 280 Miracle Mile. actorsplayhouse.org

AN EVENING WITH TAFFY BRODESSER-AKNER

Books & Books presents an evening with New York Times bestselling author Taffy Brodesser-Akner, on Saturday, July 20 at 7 pm. Brodesser-Akner is soon to release her sophomore novel, “Long Is-

land Compromise,” about the traumatic moment that shakes up the core of an American family and how it still impacts them 40 years later. She’s also the author of “Fleishman Is In Trouble,” now a TV series on Hulu. General admission tickets cost $30 plus additional fees. Each ticket admits up to two guests for the event, and each party will receive a copy of “Long Island Compromise.” 265 Aragon Ave. booksandbooks.com

ARBORETUM AND PALMETUM TOUR

Presented by the Coral Gables Museum, this latest Gables Bike Tour will ride out to the Gifford Arboretum, the University of Miami’s botanical garden on Sunday, August 18 at 10 am. On this twohour tour, cyclists will be able to see some of the over 500 species of trees and palms on display and learn about native and non-native plants. Tickets cost $10 for general admission or $5 for museum members and children under the age of 12. Helmets are required for attendees under 16. 285 Aragon Ave. coralgablesmuseum.org

BEST REASON TO LEAVE THE GABLES

Journey to Space, a new exhibit at the Frost Museum of Science in Downtown Miami, has launched! The exhibit provides a hands-on, climb-aboard experience that explores what it takes to live and work in space. Journey to Space uses interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts to immerse guests in the astounding aspects of life in space, including the dangers that astronauts face and the adaptations developed to help them survive. On view through October 6, admission to Journey to Space is included with museum admission ($22.95 for kids over 3, $29.95 for adults). 1101 Biscayne Blvd. For more info, go to frostscience.org/space. ■

House of Wellness

IN WHICH AN INTREPID REPORTER GOES DEEP INTO HERSELF

BY NATALIA CLEMENT

Whether we’re constantly working, going through hardship, or just dealing with everything life throws at us, it’s safe to say that we could all use some relaxation and revitalization. When I saw that my favorite yoga instructor was hosting a one-day retreat at Lipé House of Wellness, I took it as a sign for some much-needed self-care.

Walking into the salmon pink building on Le Jeune Road, I found myself a bit reserved. I wasn’t sure what to expect – and was definitely not prepared for my mind and body’s reaction.

We started with breathwork. Lying down on yoga mats with pillows under our heads and our legs elevated, we looked up at our instructor, Ben, as he introduced us to the Wim Hof approach to cold training. To prepare ourselves for the looming cold plunge, Ben guided us through our breathing with escalating sets of inhales and exhales broken up by increasing lapses of holding our breath. With each relieving sigh, I felt a slight tingling in the tips of my fingers and the apples of my cheeks. Deep into the session, my ears popped. Ben assured us that these reactions were normal. What caught me most off-guard were the instinctual tears rolling down my face as I felt the weight of my stress expel itself from my body. A breakthrough.

Now that I was strapped into this wellness rollercoaster, it was time to conquer the drop: the cold plunge. The bathtub was set at a

LIPÉ HOUSE OF WELLNESS

cool 40 degrees. “It’s going to feel stressful,” Ben explained. “You’re going to learn how to control that through your breath. And by practicing over and over, you’ll learn how to deescalate your stress.” Flashing back to summer afternoons at the freezing Venetian Pool, I took the plunge. And… I absolutely loved it. Focusing on the slight numbness of my toes, I made it three minutes with an easy smile.

After a quick warming in the infrared sauna, we moved into the meditation room, which features an Energy Enhancement System made up of four screens at each corner of the room, combining “body, mind, spirit, and science to help you… reach higher states of health, consciousness, and self-actualization through frequency and ‘scalar waves.’” Okay... I thought, feeling my skepticism return. Sitting in reclinable sofa chairs with headphones and eye masks, we laid back and listened to a guided meditation while slurping up lemon-flavored activated charcoal. Not as gross as it sounds!

Finally, we began the main event: a two-hour yoga session with April May Gardner, moving through deep twists and turns that activated our muscles and got us sweating. Some of the more advanced students stretched out in splits and balanced on their heads. My moves were more reserved, to say the least.

We finished the retreat gathered in a large group, chanting “ohms” as we reflected on the experience of disconnecting from the world in favor of connecting with ourselves. With all of the day’s experiences available any time at Lipé, I’ll definitely be back for a cold plunge and a yoga session, at least. ■

TOP LEFT: BREATHWORK: INHALE - HOLD - EXHALE TOP RIGHT: A COLD PLUNGE FOR THREE MINUTES ABOVE LEFT: ENTRANCE AREA FROM LE JEUNE RD ABOVE RIGHT: THE TWO-HOUR YOGA SESSION

The Three “D”s

FOR A GOOD DATE NIGHT, HOW CAN YOU GO WRONG WITH DRINKS, DANCING, AND DINNER?

BY KYLIE WANG

It’s been a while since I’ve written “Dinner and a Date,” a shortlived column where I reviewed both my food and my date (spoiler alert: most of the latter were not great). I’m happy to report that, since then, I’ve managed to find a partner! Having recently moved in together, I’ve deemed that now we’re serious enough to write about, which is what led to our recent date night in downtown Gables.

We started with drinks at Copper 29, which we have to give honors to as one of the best happy hours out there. With drinks only $5 from 5 to 6 pm ($6 from 6 to 7, $7 from 7 to 8), we loaded up on liquid courage for our impending couple’s dance lesson, neither of us particularly confident in our hand-to-foot coordination.

Copper has recently taken over a second space next to its previous dimly lit and generally very cramped room, which meant we had a little more privacy and could actually hear each other over the pop remix playing overhead. We tried the Passionfruit Martini and Tommy’s Margarita, both excellent. My partner considers himself something of a margarita connoisseur but even he was impressed by the recipe simplicity, which he maintains is key to a good margarita.

Braving the rain, we headed to our dance lesson at Fred Astaire Dance Studios on Galiano Street. Owner Vera Kosarev walked

us through a short private lesson of about half an hour, where we learned the basic steps to the foxtrot (surprisingly easy), the hustle (pretty sure I’ve already forgotten this one), and the waltz (since by then we were experts). It was a typical beginner’s lesson that left us eager to return and hone our skills with another private lesson or group class. Vera explained that it takes 20-plus lessons to be considered “good,” but she also instilled so much confidence in us that we’re sure we could do it in 15.

Feeling a lot more devoted to each other after our whirl across the dance floor, we set off to our last stop of the night: dinner. We chose Shadow Wagyu, primarily because I’m a consummate carnivore, but also because neither of us had been there before. Often unnoticed in the Gables culinary scene, this back-room, hole-inthe-wall on Le Jeune just south of Havana Harry’s serves nothing but the finest of meats. Even the rice is cooked in Wagyu tallow. We were lucky enough to show up on one of only a handful of nights each year when this Shangri-La of steak is serving Wagyu croquetas ($5 each). They were so good we shamelessly stuffed them down, then took a deep breath and moved on to the main events: steak frites ($44) and a burger ($24). Shadow Wagyu claims to have the best burger in the world and while we can’t verify that, it was absolutely a top choice for the Gables. The steak frites, meanwhile, might just take home the No. 1 prize. Oozing with flavor, so tender as to almost fall apart in your mouth, it was a masterpiece of meat.

Satiated, romanced, and a little tipsy, our date night was a huge success, one we’d recommend for all Gableites. ■

LEFT TOP:COPPER 29. 206 MIRACLE MILE. 786.830.9640

LEFT: SHADOW WAGYU. 4702 S. LEJEUNE RD. 786.828.8023

RIGHT: FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIOS. 2320 GALIANO ST. 305.443.0085

Fruits of Labor

PLANT A RARE TROPICAL FRUIT TREE WITH THE RARE FRUIT COUNCIL

BY LUKE CHANEY

If you’ve never seen or heard of a soursop before, you wouldn’t be the first. The bright green fruit is covered in spines and has a thick, creamy interior similar to a banana. It’s native to tropical regions in the Caribbean and the Americas but has yet to become popular in South Florida. And that’s where the Rare Fruit Council comes in.

Established in 1955, the Rare Fruit Council International, Inc. (RFCI) aids in the development of tropical fruits in South Florida, with locations in Coral Gables, Broward, and West Palm Beach. This mission is why Maurice Kong, former president and current director of RFCI, joined the organization 21 years ago.

“Having lived in Jamaica most of my adult life, I was very surprised that everyday popular tropical fruits such as guava, sugar apple, soursop, and sapodilla were not a familiar sight at fruit stands or at supermarkets in Miami,” says Kong. “What was equally surprising was that these popular fruit trees were also not available for sale at nurseries as well.” When he learned of RFCI, he immediately took the chance to join and become reconnected with the fruits he’s loved since childhood.

RFCI President Steve McNally has a similar story. Like many members, McNally is a Gables resident who first learned of the Rare Fruit Council in 2008 while at the annual farmers’ market at

FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 OLD CUTLER RD., “CORBIN A” ROOM. 786.474.4987

RAREFRUITCOUNCILRFCI@GMAIL.COM

City Hall. He was interested in growing trees in his yard that would provide shade. The club encouraged him to grow “something reciprocal… something that would produce.” He was intrigued.

Since 2020, McNally has acted as president, hosting the Rare Fruit Council’s monthly meetings at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Often, the meetings include a guest speaker, a plant swap, and a fruit-centric potluck. Members of the Council also go on field trips together to farms and other produce-related places to learn more about the South Florida fruit scene. Their most recent trip was to Patch of Heaven Sanctuary, a nonprofit haven for “all sentient beings” in the Redlands, where McNally and others were taken on a five-hour guided tour that included waterfalls, a lagoon, and a chat with a farmer who grows exotic mushrooms.

McNally’s message to potential new members is simple: join RFCI to learn more about tropical fruit trees and how to grow and sustain them. “We all have the same ‘like,’” he says. “We’re a group that all likes to grow stuff in our backyard, and we all want to be more productive. We want to get better with our plants. We have professional growers and hobbyist growers that have been through [the drill of] when to prune or when to fertilize. The experience here is to help people be better at their hobby.” ■

TOP PHOTOS:THE RARE FRUIT COUNCIL MEETS MONTYHLY AT FAIRCHILD AND ALSO GOES ON FREQUENT FIELD TRIPS. BOTTOM LEFT: SOURSOP FRUIT

BOTTOM RIGHT: SAPODILLA FRUIT

Doctors Hospital: Celebrating 75 Years of Caring for Our Community.

Doctors Hospital continues to care for the Coral Gables community whenever the unexpected happens. Our board-certified ER physicians and dedicated staff are prepared to respond to any serious illness or injury with urgency and compassion when you need it most.

Welcome to 24/7 Emergency Care.

Shopping the Wave

FINDING THE IDEAL SWIMWEAR FOR THE SUMMER

BY NATALIA CLEMENT

Swimwear Mecca

Nic Del Mar is the go-to stop for fashionable swimwear in the Gables, attracting clientele from throughout Greater Miami. This family-owned business offers a variety of high-end swimwear brands from across the globe, including Australia’s Bond-eye and London’s Hunza (both of which run in one-size fits all, and apparently complement all body sizes for around $200). Although there are pops of color throughout the racks, the majority of the pieces here cater to the boho look with light colors and pastels.

One of the top sellers this season is ViX Paula Hermanny, due to the brand’s attention to detail in decorative accents. At Nic Del Mar, we spotted the Brooke t-back bikini, a light olive-green two-piece with manila rope strings accentuated by jade beads in the center, back, and sides ($306). Pair it with one of their stylish sun hats like France’s Van Palma chapeaux, a light beige straw hat with a gold-tone paperclip chain chin strap ($311). Talk about bringing the runway poolside!

Latina Fashion

Origen is a multi-brand store showcasing Latin American womenowned clothing lines. Although the selection of swimwear is limited, the quality and detailing makes it a worthwhile stop when hunting for the summer look of the season (all under $150). Highlights include matching sets by Ecuadorian brand Alcatraz, which makes their pieces with the help of artisan women in Ecuador. Our favorite three-piece set had a geometric pattern of blues and greens for the bikini, paired with a silky knee-length skirt in the same hues. If you want a more romantic look, the Colombian brand Bajo el Mar offers elegant two-pieces that can be worn on and off the beach. The ruffling over-the-shoulder design provides an eye-catching flair that can be dressed up for post-beach activities with a good pair of jeans or a smart skirt. Origen also offers summertime clothing and accessories for Gableites looking to elevate their beach style. ■

Curves N’ Waves

Delivering poolside fashion to the Gables since the early ’90s, Curves N’ Waves offers vintage jeans and clothing (the curves), as well as a selection of swimsuits and coverups (the waves). Although the store focuses more on style than brands, you can still find pieces by upscale swimwear companies like Trina Turk and Becca ($95$150). From modest one-pieces to skimpy bikinis, the wall of colorful bathing suits catches your eyes with a variety of prints and cuts. Although there’s a few classic monochromatic pieces, you’re more likely to score your next statement swimsuit here. According to owner Joe Vitucci, animal print is the current craze. Our favorites include a one-shoulder multi-color print bikini and an off-the shoulder ruffled two-piece with high-waisted bottoms that comes in both bright red and aqua. Complete the look with mesh cover ups, waterproof sarongs, or linen-blend side-slit pants.

CURVES N’ WAVES. 126 MIRACLE MILE. 305.442.1430

FOR SALE

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FOR SALE $4,595,000. 5 BEDS / 6 BATHS | 4,098 SF | 10,725 SF LOT 642 MADEIRA AVE, CORAL GABLES, FL. Ready for move in! Brand new transitional-style family home in prime location. FOR SALE $6,499,000. 4 BEDS / 4.5 BATHS | 4,912 SF | 31,231 SF LOT 8001 LOS PINOS BLVD, CORAL GABLES, FL. Great opportunity to own a home on a builder’s acre lot (31,231 sf) in Cocoplum phase one.

Consuelo T. Stewart

Broker/Co-owner

305.216.7348

cstewart@sheltonandstewart.com

Tere Shelton Bernace Broker/Co-owner 305.607.7212

tbernace@sheltonandstewart.com

Facelifts

Beyond Techniques

A prospective facelift patient researching options these days is likely to encounter some confusion given today’s abundance of enticing advertising on Instagram and other social media platforms. Claims are made about the superiority of one ‘technique’ versus another, including a re-marketed technique originally conceived (and relegated) decades ago, the ‘deep plane’ of the 1980’s/90’s. It is true that a facelift can be performed in more than one way - as a skin lift, a SMAS lift (with its own permutations of a ‘high’, ‘low’ or ‘extended’ version), a ‘deep plane’, or yet deeper, as a ‘subperiosteal’ lift (at the level of the facial bones). And that’s not all. This is not just confusing for patients but also for surgeons.

So, what to do? First, don’t believe everything you hear or watch on Instagram. Remain critical. Your result will be produced by your plastic surgeon, not a named ‘technique’. That result will be the outcome of your surgeon’s artistic abilities (which vary considerably) and much actual experience, utilizing a combination of techniques which over time have proven safe and effective in their hands. Different surgeons may well use different techniques. Good, excellent surgeons usually produce solid results, and do so consistently.

So, what’s actually important in a facelift that matters to you? First, it needs to be safe - medically, and aesthetically. You want to emerge healthy and looking normal since you can’t hide your face (at least without a mask).

Safety starts with medically screening patients for appropriate health, performing the procedure in a safe environment (accredited surgical facility, as an Ambulatory Surgery Center), under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist with a judicious combo of local and sleep anesthesia. Obviously, having a safe surgeon is as critical as a safe pilot. Also, attentive after-surgery care matters.

Aesthetically, techniques selected depend on a patient’s anatomy and nuances. That’s up to the plastic surgeon and there is no substitute for the surgeon’s experience and craftsmanship. What’s important to accomplish during surgery is to re-tighten the support layer below the skin and to adequately mobilize and redrape the overlying skin after removing its excess. This needs to be done with a delicate touch (to minimize bruising and swelling) while staying away from sensitive, deeper situated facial nerves which if injured can induce obvious deformities. A ‘deep is dangerous’ awareness is a useful thought to behold throughout the procedure.

Key areas to address are the neck and jowls, and often the upper eyelids. Many patients do not need a brow or lip lift. Some volume addition, as well as Botox, can be helpful. A generally ‘less is more’ attitude is wise if you wish to remain looking like yourself.

In summary, facelifts are safe and highly effective procedures, providing unparalleled rejuvenation when expertly performed. Surgically, they are time intensive and demanding to perform, requiring prolonged and nonstop attention to numerous details. A good facelift looks normal and natural, like yourself, while leaving the observer pondering why you look good. The notso-good ones are pretty easy to spot, and you may have seen some.

As always, research and reflect carefully before proceeding. The ‘American Board of Plastic Surgery’ has been certifying plastic surgeons since 1937 and is a good starting point. Ask pointed questions, review results of previous work, and ask around. Solid reputations take time to build.

STEPHAN BAKER, MD, FACS Plastic Surgery of the Face Breast and Body

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery 305.381.8837 | www.drbaker.com 3850 Bird Road Suite 702, Miami, FL 33146

Stephan Baker MD

Bites Fine Dining Review

See page 48

A BARTENDER AT OSUMI MAKES THE IBARAKI SOUR WITH WATERMELON LIQUEUR AND BARLEY VODKA.

Quick Bites

Sushi

TWO-FOR-ONE

During lunchtime, from 12 to 4 pm daily, patrons of Miracle Mile can stop at KAO Sushi & Grill for a bargain on selected sushi rolls: buy one get one free! We paired the richness of the volcano roll ($15) – the standard crab and avocado combo elevated by a vibrant crab salad on top – with the refreshing tiger roll ($12). The citrusy flavor of the leche de tigre coats the roll of shrimp tempura and avocado topped with slices of salmon, completed by the slight added texture of the crispy tempura flakes. Talk about twice the flavor! 127 Miracle Mile. 954.699.4234. kaosushigrill.com

WAGYU LOVER

At Osumi on Giralda, you’ll find elevated Japanese-American fusion cuisine with a Latin flair. To satisfy polished palates, peruse down the Wagyu section of the menu. Here, you can take on a new interpretation of Surf & Turf, this time a la maki ($34) – a combination of shrimp tempura, lobster, and avocado rolled up and topped with Wagyu and Japanese teriyaki. Goes well with the five-piece Wagyu dumplings, in case you’re looking to share with the table. 110 Giralda Ave. 786.452.9902. osumisushibar.com

ROLL WITH MAI

At Mai Sushi Tapas & Bar, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the extensive and inventive menu, which explores a new kind of take on Japanese tapas. Looking past the decadent sashimi specials and sushi pintxos, their homage to the City Beautiful is encapsulated in an equally elaborate roll. Biting into the Crunchy Coral Gables Roll ($14), you’re met with a colorful trio of tuna, white fish, and salmon topped with fried garlic, fried onion, eel sauce, and housemade spicy mayo. Equal parts flavor and crunch! 98 Miracle Mile. 206.696.0674. maisushitapas.com

SIMPLE BUT SPECTACULAR

Su-Shin Izakaya serves up a wide variety of authentic Japanese sushi and small plates, but our favorite is the simple yet flavorful Sunset Strip Roll ($15). The subtleness of the hamachi – Japanese amberjack or yellowtail fish – paired very well with the more savory combination of the masago and scallion. Slices of avocado on top of the roll add an element of rich creaminess. 159 Aragon Ave. 305.445.2584. izakayarestaurant.com

EVERYTHING BUT THE KITCHEN SINK

At Sushi Sake, we tried one of the most unique items on its menu: the Seafood Paradise Roll ($20), which was filled with crunchy shrimp tempura and krabstick salad and then piled over with more krab salad, as well as spicy octopus, spicy mayo, and eel sauce. Talk about a full meal! While the roll itself, which was also covered with avocado slices, was tasty, we found the concoction on top of it to be a little too saucy. 202 Miracle Mile. 786.636.8125. sushisakemiami.com ■

Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Care and safety come rst, but lifestyle and independence are important too. At Belmont Village, you’ll nd it all. An experienced sta , 24/7 licensed nurses, award-winning enrichment and memory programs in a luxurious and attentive environment. And unlike most, we build, own, and operate all of our communities. So residents can count on the continuity of those high standards, never compromising on the things that matter.

Fresh Elegance

THE LATEST ENTRY IN FINE DINING FOR GIRALDA PLAZA IS AUTHENTICALLY JAPANESE

BY J.P. FABER

The culinary scene on Giralda’s pedestrian plaza continues to upscale itself, starting with the makevover of Talavera Cocina Mexicana on the west end and now to Osumi on the east end, with stars like Luca Osteria, Eating House, Calista, and Cebada Rooftop upping the elegance factor in between.

Osumi has been open just three months, but already feels polished. It replaces Tapeo Miami, a house of tapas with excellent food but hobbled by a bizarre interior that felt more like a pop-art spaceship in Las Vegas than a Spanish restaurant.

The new interior is unrecognizable, transformed into what feels like a Japanese teahouse in Osaka or Kyoto. Blond woods, woven rattan panels, flower petal lamps, a glowing bar with clear hanging bulbs, comfortable but simple leather seats – all of it conveys an unpretentious, easy-going sophistication. It’s all about the experience, says co-owner Hernan Santarcangelo, who was also the restaurant’s architect. “We’ve created a space where fine dining meets casual comfort,” he says, which really understates the refinement of the design.

The food is likewise beautifully curated. Of course, because this is a Japanese restaurant, there is a surfeit of nigiri, sashimi, and rolls. We were tempted by the spicy blue crab roll and the lobster with caviar roll, but we kept our raw fish to a magnificent pair of shio salmon nigiri (on rice, like butter, $10) with lime zest, and a flight of spicy tuna tartar on cassava chips with avocado cream ($22). The latter was evidence of Osumi’s self-defined posture, as a Japanese restaurant with Latin fusions.

We saw a little more of that with their Sachi of the Sea ($26), bites of shrimp, scallop, and charred avocado floating in a very un-Japanese pool of coconut milk and Latin passion fruit sauce. Very refreshing and a good palate cleanser before the main dishes.

While there are numerous Japanese restaurants in the Gables

TOP LEFT: OSUMI IBARAKI SOUR AND JAPANESE TEA

TOP: INTERIOR STYLE LIKE A KYOTO TEAHOUSE

ABOVE: OUR WONDERFUL SERVER NICOLE SALAZAR

OPPOSITE

TOP LEFT: A PAIR OF SHIO SALMON NIGIRI WITH LIME ZEST

TOP RIGHT: A FLIGHT OF SPICY TUNA TARTARE

BOTTOM LEFT: TEBASAKI - KOREAN-STYLE FRIED CHICKEN

WINGS CRUSTED WITH KARASHI HONEY

BOTTOM RIGHT: TERIYAKI SALMON ON PUREED CABBAGE

that focus on sushi, nigiri, and rolls, we wanted to push into the less common – and non-seafood – fare on the menu. The deeper offerings are a good test of a well-rounded Japanese restaurant, and Osumi passed with flying colors. Our favorites were the Tebasaki, a plate of Korean-style fried chicken wings, crusted with karashi honey and bits of fried quinoa for crunch, and (we swear) some garlic ($23). Hauntingly good.

We also ordered the duck confit with fried rice ($42), which arrived as sliced duck breast atop a complex bed of yellow rice with mushrooms, eggs, and foie gras. My fellow diners thought the duck underdone; it was seared like a tuna steak and I loved it. Two other entrees impressed. The first was their teriyaki salmon ($29), a medium-cooked block of salmon perfectly seared and glazed, served on a bed of whipped white cabbage, with pureed red cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, shaved truffles, and white rice topped by crunchy quinoa. A superb treatment for a classic dish.

Finally, we ordered something from the Wagyu Lover section of the menu – their hot stone Wagyu with assorted vegetables ($48). Here, the waitress places the Wagyu on the grill and then turns it for you before placing it on your plate. The secret to this dish is to pair each bit of beef with a tiny carrot or slice of yellow pickled pepper to give the soft beef a salty or tart bang, which it needed.

Not to be forgotten here is the bar, with a selection of Japanese whiskeys and vodkas, and the cocktails, which range from a Lychee Highball (with Japanese gin) to a distinctly Japanese Ibaraki Sour, which mixes watermelon liqueur with barley vodka (ichiiko shoshu), sugar, lime, and absinthe, topped with egg white foam. Sweet and tart, both beautiful and delicious. Desserts were on par; we fell for the pistachio tartufo, a large ball of ice cream topped with a disk of dark chocolate and flamed with rum.

Osumi is still new to Giralda Plaza, but we expect this fresh showcase of elegance, excellent service, and superb cuisine to flourish. ■

Cheesin’ at Cheesecake Factory

BY KYLIE WANG

There’s something to be said about casual chain restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory, which, while not the most romantic or the healthiest of choices, do the job simply and effectively. You won’t catch us having a romantic date night at the Factory. But a quick happy hour from 4 to 7 pm at the bar? You bet. Especially with full meals for under $10 and cocktails for $8.50.

We decided to find out if the dishes available on happy hour (of which there are a whopping 26) were worth the limited price tag and were pleasantly surprised. Our personal favorite was the Korean Fried Cauliflower, which comes with a weighty portion tossed in sweet and spicy sauce. Very much worth the $8.75 price – though perhaps not the 1,150 calories consumed. But why come to a place that touts cheesecake as its number one menu item if you’re looking for healthy?

That was the thought process behind our order of the Buffalo Blasts. A wonton-esque fried shell conceals an inner layer of chicken, cheese, and buffalo sauce for this take on a traditional buffalo chicken wrap. While it may set you back on your diet, it’s filling and heartstoppingly delicious. We paired our snacks (meals) with The Cheesecake Factory’s discounted happy hour cocktails, which for us meant a margarita and a mojito, simple and sweet. We came away satisfied with the exact experience we’d asked for: affordable and easy. ■

HAPPY HOUR KOREAN FRIED CAULIFLOWER IN A SWEET AND SPICY SAUCE

New Places

THE NEWEST RESTAURANTS TO HIT THE GABLES FOODIE SCENE

Ojo de Agua

With over 35 locations in Mexico, restaurant chain Ojo de Agua expanded its reach to Miami with a Brickell location in 2021. After three years of rave reviews over their fast-casual, healthy recipes, the eatery has opened a second location on Miracle Mile.

Ojo de Agua provides Gableites with a long list of fresh options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night bites (it’s open until 10 pm on weekdays). What differentiates Ojo de Agua from the slew of other health-conscious restaurants in the Gables is their nod to authentic Mexican flavors, albeit adapted for the American palate.

The table favorite was the Chutney Mango sandwich, featuring a generous portion of chicken breast with melted oaxaca and manchego cheese and their special mango chutney spread slathered inside brioche bread ($20). To lighten up on the calories, we accompanied this with the Tropical Ceviche, a mix of fresh tuna, avocado, mango, and green apple, marinated with lemon, pineapple juice, oyster sauce, and serrano chili ($25). A refreshing plate to share using a toasty side of tortilla chips. Our only criticism is the tuna to fruit ratio, which skews far more toward fruit than fish.

Tacos are a good test for any Mexican restaurant, so we ordered the classic al pastor ($23), which did the job pleasantly, complemented by a side of fresh guacamole. Feeling adventurous, we also sampled the lobster tacos ($40) marinated in curry paste and beetroot, topped with mango. For the price (three tacos per order), we suggest sticking to the more affordable handhelds. Still, we’ll be back. —

Natalia Clement

219 MIRACLE MILE. @OJODEAGUA.USA

Francesco

With its litany of adventurous palates, it’s no surprise the Gables is a hotspot for fusion cuisine. The latest is a marriage between Peruvian and Italian, a slightly strange but happy coupling that combines ceviche and lomo saltado with squid ink risotto and New York strip steak. Still, Peruvian remains the focus here, especially when it comes to the appetizers, where all but one is seafood. Since the staple of Peru is ceviche, we went with the Ceviche Chalaco, a Francesco specialty that features fish and octopus in a leche de tigre sauce made with rocoto, a Peruvian chili pepper that offers a little kick. The plating looks simple, but the flavors are much more complex.

Our favorite dish of the night was the Canelones De Aji De Gallina, which we can only describe as a Peruvian enchilada. The wrapping is cannelloni, an Italian egg-based pasta that felt more like a tortilla. It’s then filled with a traditional Peruvian chicken stew, which made us initially suspicious. After all, how does a wet stew stay inside a tortilla-esque pasta shell? We were, however, pleasantly surprised by the filling, which was less stew-like and more like marinated chicken.

More surprising was the quality of the cocktails, particularly the lychee martini, which our server raved about and was absolutely correct in doing so. We also tried the El Basilico for a touch of Peru, which adds ginger ale and basil to a pisco base. Tangy and sour in the best way. – Kylie Wang 278 MIRACLE MILE. 305.797.4039. FRANCESCO-RESTAURANT.COM

OJO DE AGUA: TROPICAL CEVICHE (TOP) & LOBSTER TACOS

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Sanguich De Miami

An unpretentious menu, a walk-up ventanita, and milkshakes made from local fruits are what characterize the newest offering at The Plaza Coral Gables. Sanguich De Miami, which made waves by winning three Bib Gourmand awards from the Michelin Guide over the last few years, is a Cuban sandwich shop with a short menu comprised of the classics: pan con bistec, media noche, pan con lechon, etc. It also offers coffee, batidos (fruit milkshakes), and a short collection of appetizers.

Our recommendation is to go for the sandwiches, which are simple, elegantly made, and perfectly toasted. The Gables favorite so far (and ours as well) is the pan con bistec. We’ve all had the experience of biting into a steak sandwich and having to fight with it, literally tooth and nail, to just get through the tough skirt steak. At Sanguich, that problem has been solved. The steak is shredded and tender, far easier to eat, sandwiched between toasted pieces of Cuban bread. The traditional potato sticks topping is also elevated. Smaller than usual, they make for easy eating, providing a crunch that gives the iconic sandwich a happy ending with each bite.

We were also pleasantly surprised by our batidos, including one made of guava and cheesecake that any Latino will marvel at. Next time, we’ll probably order through the walk-up window (the largest in Coral Gables!) just to test out the experience. Owner Daniel Figueredo claims he can make a sandwich in six minutes, so we’ll be there with our stopwatches! – Kylie Wang

111 PALERMO AVE. (THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES, FIRST FLOOR). SANGUICH.COM

OUR FAVORITE AT SANGUICH DE MIAMI: PAN CON BISTEC

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GreenG Juice & Acai

Another health-conscious cafe has made its way to the Gables. Located on Miracle Mile, GreenG Juice & Acai is the perfect spot to go for an energizing breakfast or post-workout bite. We first tried their unique avocado toast ($14.30), a fresh take on the modern breakfast classic. The goji berries gave it a unique element of sweetness, and the nut-based sour cream drizzle paired nicely with the real star of the dish: a heaping pile of smashed avocado. We moved on to “The Knockout” ($16.50) – GreenG’s signature acai bowl. Each bite includes strawberry, banana, almond butter, and coconut flakes, packed with flavor and earning a gold star from us. The addition of mixed nuts and whey added a protein punch, and the raw honey drizzle offered a sugary touch that wasn’t overpowering.

To wash everything down, we tried one of GreenG’s many cold-pressed juices. The staff recommended the Dragon Lemonade, which includes a blend of dragon fruit, mango, agave, and lemon. While refreshing (and advertised as having anti-inflammatory benefits), it was perhaps not worth the $12 price tag. The chunks of dragon fruit that lump up at the end of the concoction gave it a bit of an unsettling texture. Next time, we’ll stick with those delicious acai bowls, maybe while relaxing on the upstairs sofa set-up, which looks more like the inside of your living room than a restaurant. ■ – Luke Chaney

376 MIRACLE MILE. GREENGJUICEBAR.COM

‘THE

KNOCKOUT’ ACAI BOWL (TOP) AND AVOCADO TOAST (BOTTOM)

National and International Award Winning Artists

Humanities & Literature

Youth Enrichment and Community Engagement

International Professional Dance Training

Free Piano Classes for Kids

Creative Art Spaces

Open Class Programs

20,000+ audience

70+ shows per year

The Female Factor

WOMEN ARE MOSTLY IN THE SPOTLIGHT FOR THIS YEAR’S COMMUNITY ARTS PROGRAM CONCERTS

BY JOSIE GULLIKSEN, ARTBURST MIAMI

For nearly 40 years, the Community Arts Program (CAP) has been providing a cultural musical outlet during the slower summer months at Coral Gables Congregational Church.

At the helm of the program since 2002 is CAP Executive and Artistic Director Mark Hart, who proudly boasts that this year’s Summer Concert Series is made up predominantly of women performers. That was his goal in planning the series, which runs every other Thursday from June 13 through Aug. 22. “I wanted to include more women in performance and as the planning went along, everyone I booked or was interested in booking were women, so it happened organically,” says Hart.

CAP has a rich history that began in 1985 with the formation of the Summer Concert Series at the historic Coral Gables Congregational Church. It was created by the Reverend Dr. Gary Miller and University of Miami administrator Dr. Paul Blaney. The series grew to feature renowned jazz musicians like Milt Jackson, Shirley Horn, and Ernestine Anderson.

“It was quite the task to follow,” says Hart. “I remember taking the reins as a consultant in 2001, bringing [on] the likes of jazz trumpeter Randy Brecker, vocalist Kurt Elling, classical pianist Leon Fleisher, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, among others. I [thought], ‘This is a cool playground to work in.’”

The 2024 lineup is all female except for two performances, with “a wide genre of music,” Hart says. For the June 27 concert, the first with a female performer, Hart was looking for something unique, so he reached out to New World Symphony percussion fellow Jennifer Marasti and came up with a program that took “both a visual and

TOP: CLARINETIST DOREEN KETCHENS WILL BE PERFORMING AT THE COMMUNITY ARTS PROGRAM (CAP) ON AUGUST 8TH.

ABOVE: JENNIFER MARASTI IS A NEW WORLD SYMPHONY PERCUSSION FELLOW.

RIGHT: KOREAN GUITARIST BOKYUNG BYUN, A TEXAS NATIVE, IS PERFORMING ON-STAGE JULY 25TH.

CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

3010 DESOTO BLVD. 305.448.7421, EXT. 120

PERFORMANCES: JULY 11 & 25; AUG. 8 & 22 COMMUNITYARTSPROGRAM.ORG $35 OR $40 AT THE DOOR WITH TICKET PACKAGES AVAILABLE

audio approach to classical music.”

Marasti jumped at the opportunity. “This is the first time I’ve been offered to do something like this,” she says. “They usually do piano and violin, but it was so nice [that Hart] wanted to do something different and special in that way.” It was the first time she’d performed solo, with eight pieces, most of them adapted to marimba. She also treated her audience to a transcription of The Beatles’ 1968 hit “Blackbird,” as well as other ragtime music from the 1920s.

Korean guitarist Bokyung Byun, meanwhile, takes the stage on July 25. The Texas native is the first female winner of the JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition and tours the country as a soloist and masterclass instructor. She’s performed with orchestras and at festivals throughout the United States and Canada, with a repertoire that ranges from 18th century classicism to 20th century works.

Clarinetist Doreen Ketchens is the first featured artist the following month, performing on August 8. Hart saw her recent feature on “CBS Sunday Morning,” an interview with legendary journalist Ted Koppel, and immediately knew he had to reach out. “I dug a little bit deeper and realized that she’s everywhere, so I was really happy to get her for this series, especially since it’s her first time in Miami,” he says.

Ketchens will be performing a concert of original Dixieland music with her daughter accompanying her on drums. Even with four decades of experience as a musician and performer, she stays humble, considering her extensive and successful career “a miracle” and performing alongside her husband and daughter “a true blessing.” Keenly aware since her junior year of high school that her path would be playing clarinet in an orchestra, she forged ahead with her dream despite her high school guidance counselor’s objections.

She and her husband attended the same college in Connecticut and, despite both having to depart early to care for their mothers in New Orleans, the two quickly became a fixture as a talented duo playing on the streets. Ketchens says playing in public can prove even more difficult than playing to a captive audience in a venue. “When you’re talented [and] playing on the street, people will form opinions. People look down on you…. The better you sound, the worse they think,” she says.

Decades later, Ketchens and her husband Lawrence are still living the dream, performing both in venues and on the street to maintain their endurance and continue practicing. Ketchens says rehearsals and performances don’t measure up to even one day of street performing, which keeps her in better shape as a player. “That’s our mother that bore us. It created us,” she says.

During their performance for CAP, attendees can expect a few surprises, Ketchens says. Their philosophy is to get to know their audience as they play, and then improvise the program a bit to fit the listeners. “Our performance is a cultural experience. We always start out spiritual and I may introduce some of the songs before we perform, [but then] we always open it up to requests,” she says. The duo will be sticking around and teaching a masterclass the day after their performance on the history of the New Orleans sound, providing a historical reference to their music and showcasing the scope of the words.

Finally, closing out the series on August 22 is vocalist Lucy Yeghiazaryan, one of the finalists in the Sarah Vaughn International Jazz Vocal competition. “Lucy brings a unique voice and character to the genre of jazz,” says Hart. Yeghiazaryan, who is Armenian American, will perform from the Great American Songbook.

With the spotlight on so many female performers for this year’s series, Hart says, “[It’s] definitely the biggest difference from other years.” ■ ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit media source for the arts featuring stories by writers dedicated to theater, dance, visual arts, film, music, and more.

“ OUR PERFORMANCE IS A CULTURAL EXPERIENCE. WE ALWAYS START OUT SPIRITUAL AND I MAY INTRODUCE SOME OF THE SONGS BEFORE WE PERFORM, [BUT THEN] WE ALWAYS OPEN IT UP TO REQUESTS. ”

CLARINETIST DOREEN KETCHENS (ABOVE) TALKING ABOUT HER PERFORMANCE AT CAP.

TOP: ARMENIAN AMERICAN VOCALIST LUCY YEGHIAZARYAN

Coral Gables The Best of

Coral Gables is nothing if not a city of superlatives. As any resident will tell you, it’s the best city in South Florida, if not the entire state. But just how that greatness breaks down is a matter of debate.

Each year, we look at the city in terms of its unique attributes, an atomistic look at the particulars of dining, entertainment, public spaces, retail options, services, and culture. We ponder each category based on our experience and journalistic probing and we also send out our Best Of query to all our readers and compile their hundreds of responses.

We don’t always agree with our readers. In fact, many of those Reader’s Choices are made with very close votes, where the just-missed No. 2 is our staff choice. In the end, a lot of these picks are subjective, which is inevitable considering how many close calls there are. Such is the burden of being overwhelmed by a wealth of good choices.

So, read on, see what you think, and let us know how close we came to picking your top choices in this array of The Best Of Coral Gables.

BEST FOOD BY TYPE OF FOOD

BEST BAKERY

STAFF CHOICE: MADRUGA

There are several good bakeries in town when it comes to making sweet treats. But for us, a good bakery has first to provide good bread. At Madruga, they bake loaves of life-sustaining multigrain and sourdough. And pastries, too.

READER’S CHOICE: MADRUGA AND BACHOUR TIED. Yes, the pastries here are works of art.

BEST SEAFOOD

STAFF CHOICE: CVI.CHE 105

A relative newcomer, they take seafood to new places with their mixed rice dishes and creative ceviches. But what do you expect from a restaurant from Peru, one of the world’s great centers for cuisine from the sea.

READER’S CHOICE: MESAMAR. Hard to argue when you can pick out the fresh fish you’re going to eat.

BEST STEAK HOUSE

STAFF CHOICE: CHRISTY’S

This is what a steak house is all about: dark red walls, dim lights, an increadibly good Caesar salad and shrimp cocktail to start. As for their Angus beef, thumbs up. And where else can you get prime rib? A Gables institution.

READER’S CHOICE: RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE. Thick and juicy. We get it.

BEST COCKTAILS

STAFF CHOICE: BULLA

There is a great bar here, and it’s not just about the sangria or some of the best happy hour deals in the city. Try their Proper Gin & Tonic and the Spanish Maragrita. They know how to make them, sweet and tart.

READER’S CHOICE: HILLSTONE AND CEBADA ROOFTOP TIED. Nice places to drink and people watch, or both.

BEST TAPAS

STAFF CHOICE: LA TABERNA GIRALDA

There are tapas, and then there are tapas. At La Taberna they are authentically Spanish, many from northern coastal Spain. Think marinated anchovies, eggplant chips in honey, blood sausage on toast with caramelized onions. This is the real deal.

READER’S CHOICE: BULLA. Great tapas and comfort food, from patatas bravas to garlic shrimp.

BEST SALAD

STAFF CHOICE: SEASONS 52

Healthy, healthy, healthy, and not just because they count calories on the menu. We love their seasonal offerings, which ensure everything is fresh and guilt-free.

READER’S CHOICE: SWEETGREEN. Another healthy hotspot with bowls and salads loaded up to-go.

BEST PIZZA

STAFF CHOICE: PICCOLA

We can’t get enough of our new favorite pizza joint in downtown Gables. The X-shaped “pixette” pies are our favorites, but with over 20 options to choose from – not including the

pizza sandwiches – there’s something here for every pizza-lover.

READER’S CHOICE: MIAMI’S BEST PIZZA. A well-loved institution for any University of Miami alum.

BEST SANDWICH

STAFF CHOICE: TINTA Y CAFÉ

You might miss this place, in a former gas station off of Ponce. But once you find it, you’ll never forget their insanely good sandwiches, like their ham with cream cheese and strawberry preserve on media noche bread. Two dozen choices, from BLTs to goat cheese with cucumber.

READER’S CHOICE: LA SANDWICHERIE. Many swear by their roast beef and secret sauce.

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

You can sit inside or outside on Miracle Mile at the Colonnade. Either way, you’ll drink rich, full-flavored coffee served in French-style

coffee cups while watching the world march by. Good breakfast dishes, too.

READER’S CHOICE: CAFÉ DEMETRIO. Elegant, old world, and simply delicious.

BEST HAMBURGERS

STAFF CHOICE: PINCHO

There is a reason why PINCHO wins the People’s Choice most every year at Burgerlicious: They have a secret sauce, and add a crunch to their burgers with potato sticks. And they keep inventing new burger combos that we can’t get enough of.

READER’S CHOICE: CLUTCH BURGER. Open wide because these burgers are huge, with local beer to wash them down.

BEST RESTAURANT BY EXPERIENCE

BEST BREAKFAST

STAFF CHOICE: BISTRO CAFÉ

Right from the start, the Bistro Café was a sensation, with their over-the-top pancakes covered in cream and blueberries. On a quiet street just north of the Shops at Merrick Park, it’s sometimes hard to grab a seat. So, be prepared to wait a few minutes.

READER’S CHOICE: THREEFOLD CAFÉ. Hard to miss with their -all-day breakfast concept and specialty coffee.

BEST BRUNCH

STAFF CHOICE: MAMEY

From the bottomless mimosas to the chicken & waffles to the cheddar jalapeño cornbread

STAFF CHOICE: CREMA

BEST HAMBURGERS: PINCHO

sticks, Mamey delivers sweet and savory combinations for brunch inside or outside in their breezy courtyard. The watermelon salad is the perfect taste of the place.

READER’S CHOICE: BACHOUR. The best eggs benedict ever, with a beautiful, breezy courtyard as well.

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

STAFF CHOICE: NOMA BEACH AT REDFISH

Not only is the food quite wonderful – seafood and Italian crafted by Chef Donatella Arpaia –but the setting on the waterfront, with Biscayne Bay in the distance and a flock of palm trees on the horizon, is unbeatable, especially at sunset.

READER’S CHOICE: ZUCCA. Elegant, sophisticated, urbane, impressive. And a hotel upstairs to finish the perfect date night off.

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

STAFF CHOICE:

The Fontana courtyard, with its immense Venetian fountain, is the heart of the Biltmore Hotel. Tall colums surround, umbrellas shield during the day, and the sound of splashing water mixes nicely with a soundtrack of opera or Sinatra.

READER’S CHOICE: CEBADA ROOFTOP. A view of the stars on Giralda and great people-watching.

STAFF CHOICE: STEPHANIE’S CREPES

This sweet hole-in-the-wall on Salzedo creates an array of crepes served as wraps, from savory to sweet, all at reasonable prices and with quality ingredients. This is one of those little gems that makes the Gables a foodie paradise.

READER’S CHOICE: COYO TACO. We wouldn’t necessarily classify the tacos as “cheap” but they’re definitely worth the price.

BEST FINE DINING

STAFF CHOICE: TULLIO

Proprietor Lucio Zanon may be the most elegant host of any restuarant in the city, making you feel special and welcome. The food is also extraordinary, with many dishes served tableside – like their fillet of branzino. Impeccable food and service.

READER’S CHOICE: FIOLA. The high watermark for plating and perfected dishes.

BEST HAPPY HOUR

STAFF CHOICE: SAWA

It’s not so much the drinks that made us choose Sawa for this, but their offerings. Every day, there is a new special on top of regular happy hour and a fun after-dark menu. And yes, the drinks are still good.

READER’S CHOICE: CEBADA ROOFTOP. Hard to beat drinking at sunset on a rooftop.

BEST LOCAL HANGOUT

STAFF CHOICE: THE GLOBE

Is there any place more comfortable to hang out than The Globe? We don’t think so, with its European vibe, open layout, fabulous old bar, classic paintings, and a menu that has been honed for decades to be both easy and pleasing.

READER’S CHOICE: THE BAR. Break out the drinks and grab your dancing shoes!

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH

STAFF CHOICE: ZUCCA

Where once Caffe Abbracci ruled the busines lunch scene, Zucca has taken the lead, with crisp service, modern décor (think Milan), and superb Italian food. This is now the place to see and be seen for the corporate elite.

READER’S CHOICE: HILLSTONE. Consistency is their name, elegance their game. Get a reservation!

BEST LATE NIGHT DINING

STAFF CHOICE: BODEGA TAQUERIA

Authentic and affordable Mexican food in a brick-lined, open space that stays open until 2 am Thursday through Saturday, and until 1 am

FONTANA

BEST CHEAP EATS

BEST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT: NOMA BEACH AT REDFISH

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on other nights. Right on the Mile, so an easy and comfortable place to roll into.

READER’S CHOICE: JOHN MARTIN’S IRISH PUB. A good place to soak it up with fish & chips.

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

STAFF CHOICE: THE COLLAB

Formerly the home of Niven Patel’s Orno, we wondered if it could keep pace. But Chef Nico Mazier has exceeded all expectations with his stunning fusions of Asian and Latin flavors, all under the banner of New American cuisine.

READER’S CHOICE: CVI.CHE 105. A huge menu of fascinating flavors.

BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE

STAFF CHOICE: CEBADA

Take a date here and you will win instant street cred for knowing that this rooftop restaurant even exists. And once you take the hidden elevator up, you have an open sky, plus a view of the street, to help make the night one to remember.

READER’S CHOICE: VINYA TABLE. Easy, streetside on the Mile, with a wonderful wine selection.

BEST PLACE TO WATCH A GAME STAFF CHOICE: FRITZ & FRANZ

The space is cavernous, the screens are large, and the selection of beer – most notably German beer – is astonishing. They just signed a new five-year lease, so you know that future World Cup games can be watched here.

READER’S CHOICE: BAY 13 BREWERY AND KITCHEN. Owned by an Aussie, so cricket and rugby on the TV screens for sure.

BEST PLACE TO CELEBRATE

STAFF CHOICE: FOGO DE CHÃO

When the gauchos parade by with their

skewers of meat, it’s like you’re at some sort of medieval feast. With their super high ceilings and adjacent loft bar, this is a larger-than-life place to go for any major celebration.

READER’S CHOICE: BAY 13 BREWERY AND KITCHEN. A massive outdoor patio for the good weather, clean interior for the bad.

BEST PLACE TO EAT AT THE BAR

First, the bar has to be massive and full. Next, the food has to be great. Third, the place has to be full of life. Americana hits all three notes with classic American fare. What other bar serves French toast and eggs benedict?

READER’S CHOICE: HILLSTONE. You’ll never feel lonely amidst the upscale crowd.

SHOPPING & RETAIL

BEST FURNITURE STORE

STAFF CHOICE: ARHAUS

Not only is their design sensibility keen, their selection is immense, from formal dining ensembles to super creative lighting. Plus, their commitment to sustainable practices warms our earth-bound hearts.

READER’S CHOICE: ARTEFACTO. Hello Brazil!

BEST CHILDREN’S STORE

STAFF CHOICE: BARNES & NOBLES

You come here for the largest collection of books, toys, puzzles, games, science kits, and dolls that you’ll find anywhere outside of FAO

Schwartz. Truly a vast selection for your kids. Not to mention, nurturing minds.

READER’S CHOICE: JANIE AND JACK. Great classic and designer clothes for kids.

BEST JEWELRY STORE

STAFF CHOICE: SNOW’S OR JAE’S OR MONTICA

With so many jewelry shops to choose from, we just had to go with the top three: diamonds at Snow’s, vintage at Jae’s, and handcrafted at Montica. Not that they don’t all offer these –we’re just noting their strength.

READER’S CHOICE: SNOW’S. Where a girl’s best friend can be found.

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

for decades, and for good reason. This is where you go for all your sartorial needs, from slacks to shirts to ties, all tailored by the master to fit your body

STAFF CHOICE: AMERICANA KITCHEN

STAFF CHOICE: PEPI BERTINI Bertini has been on Miracle Mile

BEST FURNITURE STORE: ARHAUS

like a glove.

READER’S CHOICE: NORDSTROM. Good deals and great brands.

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE STAFF CHOICE: ORIGEN

The matching two-piece sets here are to die for, with vibrant colors and eye-catching designs. The swimwear, made from Colombian artisans, is one-of-a-kind too. And they even have some fun, affordable jewelry.

READER’S CHOICE: NORDSTROM. A wide choice of garb with an exceptional selection of shoes.

BEST PLACE TO BUY FORMAL WEAR (MEN) STAFF CHOICE: SARTORI AMICI

Fine Italian designer clothing, from tailored suits to fitted shirts, made from exotic cashmeres and silk blends produced in the top mills in Italy. If the clothes make the man, Sartori will turn you into a young Marcello Mastroiani.

READER’S CHOICE: NORDSTROM. Good for off the rack clothes.

BEST PLACE TO BUY FORMAL WEAR (WOMEN)

STAFF CHOICE: MAYDA CISNEROS

Mayda Cisneros is one of the great doyens of design in the Gables, and has for years created exquisite ball gowns for the ladies who attend the most important galas in South Florida. Now, she has an atelier at La Palma.

READER’S CHOICE: NORDSTROM. Plus, the place smells great.

BEST PLACE TO BUY GIFTS

Off the beaten path on Alcazar, the offerings here run deep: candles, soaps, beach bags, towels, dishware, wine bags, cards, baby gifts,

teacher gifts, personal care items, jewelry, party accessories, and celebratory gifts.

READER’S CHOICE: COCO BELLA GIFT & HOME. Such good taste!

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

BEST FACIAL

STAFF CHOICE: SILVER MIRROR FACIAL BAR

The newest wellness offering to hit the Gables with a simple but effective menu, including a facial for men! Perfect for a lunch break stopoff to brighten your day, we love the 30-miute party-prep facial, or, for a longer break, the seasonal hydrating facial.

READER’S CHOICE: SILVER MIRROR FACIAL BAR. We can’t help but agree.

BEST MASSAGE

STAFF CHOICE: THE BILTMORE SPA.

Where pampering and self-care become one, with the most luxurious services and offerings across the board, from body wraps to skincare, hair treatments, massages, and mani/pedis. The best place to relax.

READER’S CHOICE: THE BILTMORE SPA. What else spells out elegance quite like a trip to a historic hotel spa?

BEST MANI/PEDI

STAFF CHOICE: MYTIME NAIL BAR

In a world where manicures can cost hundreds of dollars, MyTime Nail Bar stays affordable and luxe at the same time. If you call ahead,

you can even get two technicans to work on your feet and hands at the same time.

READER’S CHOICE: MYTIME NAIL BAR. We’ll see you there!

BEST HAIR SALON

STAFF CHOICE: AD BEAUTY ATELIER

The AD stands for Adys Duardo, a trendsetting hair stylist who has won the hearts and heads of her growing clientele over the last decade. A talented crew as well.

READER’S CHOICE: AVANT-GARDE SALON AND SPA. Truly upscale.

BEST BARBERSHOP

STAFF CHOICE: MANKIND

There are barbershops and salons and then there is ManKind, which not only has those old-fashioned barber chairs with TV screens in front, but also a full bar and a pool table in the antechamber, plus spa treatments. Talk about full service!

READER’S CHOICE: THE SPORT BARBERSHOP. I’ll take a fade.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

BEST LIVE MUSIC

STAFF CHOICE: ARMSTRONG JAZZ HOUSE

It’s hard to beat The Globe on Saturday night, but Armstrong puts jazz out seven nights a week, right on Miracle Mile, from 6 pm until midnight, with lots of local talent and a sax player when the bands rest.

READER’S CHOICE: ARMSTRONG JAZZ HOUSE. Play on.

STAFF CHOICE: COCO BELLA GIFT & HOME

BEST BARBERSHOP: MANKIND

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STAFF CHOICE: GABLESTAGE

A tough choice, in competition with Actors’ Playhouse. But we had to go with the intimate and serious take on theater which Bari Newport has brought to this local mainstay, with comedy now in the mix.

READER’S CHOICE: ACTORS’ PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE. Broadway, watch out.

BEST MOVIE THEATER

STAFF CHOICE: CORAL GABLES ART CINEMA

The Art Cinema is one of those Gables institutions that defines the city as a culturally sophisticated place to live. Foreign films, indie films, classic films, special events, new releases – it’s a cinematic smorgasborg.

READER’S CHOICE: CORAL GABLES ART CINEMA. Queue up for celluloid adventure.

BEST PLACE TO DANCE

STAFF CHOICE: COPPER 29

Just when you concluded that there was no super cool, sexy, club-like place to let it all hang out, there is Copper 29, the place to go when you want to get dressed up and go “clubbing”

without leaving the Gables.

READER’S CHOICE: THE BAR. A little more raw, but clearly fun.

BEST ART GALLERY

STAFF CHOICE: AMERICAS COLLECTION

The Americas Collection presents just what its name implies: a tapestry of works from across North, Central and South America, with some avant-garde and local artists.

READER’S CHOICE: CERNUDA ARTE. An institution for lovers of Cuban art with three gallery spaces.

BEST PERFORMANCE VENUE

STAFF CHOICE: SANCTUARY OF THE ARTS

What is wonderful about the Sanctuary, besides repurposing the historic First Church of Christ, is the variety of perfomances, including music of all varieties and performances of dance, previously absent from the city.

READER’S CHOICE: ACTORS’ PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE. Historic, elegant, beautiful.

SPORTS & RECREATION

BEST GYM

STAFF CHOICE: LEGACY FIT

The place to meet attractive, fit, young people. There are no days off here so you’d better be committed!

READER’S CHOICE: LIFE TIME. A “luxury health club” with all the fixings.

BEST YOGA STUDIO

STAFF CHOICE: LIPÉ HOUSE OF WELLNESS

For the yogis, but also for the dedicated health nuts. Choose from yoga classes, breathwork classes, cold plunges, and out-of-the-box detoxifying treatments.

READER’S CHOICE: TRUFUSION. Heated rooms for the maximum detox.

BEST PLACE TO SWIM

STAFF CHOICE: VENETIAN POOL

The water is ice-cold and replaced every night from underground springs. And then there is the grotto and the waterfall and the gondolas and the hamburgers. Oh, just stop! One of the great reasons to live here.

READER’S CHOICE: VENETIAN POOL. Pass the towel and sunscreen please.

BEST PICNIC SPOT

STAFF CHOICE: MATHESON HAMMOCK

There is really no other beachfront in the

BEST PLACE TO SWIM: VENETIAN POOL

MAGNIFICENT art AROUND

Exhibitions

Paintings

Sculptures

Dive into a diverse range of art spanning the rich tapestry of North, Central, and South America. Every brushstroke tells a story. Discover 2000+ Artworks 40+ Artists Free Advisory

THE AMERICAS COLLECTION

Art Gallery & Frame Shop

Gables, but when you throw in the lagoon and the water sports and the charcoal grills with benches, it’s a matchless location for families to unpack their goodies and unwind.

READER’S CHOICE: MATHESON HAMMOCK PARK. Can we join you?

BEST TENNIS COURTS

STAFF CHOICE: SALVADORE PARK

There is a reason that the Hackers United tennis club of Coral Gables shows up at 7:30 am here on Sunday mornings. Well-maintained courts in a shady residential neighborhood that is centrally located can’t be beat.

READER’S CHOICE: SALVADORE PARK TENNIS CENTER. Deuces.

BEST GOLF COURSE

STAFF CHOICE: BILTMORE GOLF COURSE

This magnificent course was renovated and updated just a few years ago. And, unlike the Riveria, it is open to the public – and home to one of the best golf schools in the country. Good post-golfing eats and drinks at Fairways, as well.

READER’S CHOICE: BILTMORE GOLF COURSE. Tee it up!

BEST PICKLEBALL

STAFF CHOICE: YOUTH CENTER

Easy access, good location, and a credible civic response to the new craze of pickleball, which has become the sport of choice for many Gableites. Play on!

READER’S CHOICE: SALVADORE PARK TENNIS CENTER. Just don’t tell tennis players their courts are cut.

BEST DOG WALKER

STAFF CHOICE: EQUIPAWS

The team behind Equipaws are true lovers of dogs. Plus, they come to your home, spoil your little beast, and make sure they get the exercise and affection they need when you don’t have the time or energy.

READER’S CHOICE: MY KIDS. Thank you Mom and Dad!

ARCHITECTURE & PUBLIC PLACES

BEST HISTORIC LANDMARK

STAFF CHOICE: THE BILTMORE HOTEL

A prototypical piece of Gables architecture that has as much history as the city itself. It served as a hospital during WWII, the site of an infamous gangster’s murder in 1929, and was “saved” and restored in the late ‘80s. Thank heavens!

READER’S CHOICE: THE BILTMORE HOTEL. Hard to argue with the most iconic Gables building.

BEST PEOPLE-WATCHING SPOT

STAFF CHOICE: GIRALDA PLAZA

Ever since the city shut down Giralda between Ponce and Galiano and turned it into a pedestrian plaza, it has become THE place to stroll, and to see and be seen. Truly a parade of humanity, free of pesky automobiles.

READER’S CHOICE: GIRALDA PLAZA. Keep on trucking.

BEST PLACE WE MISS THE MOST

STAFF CHOICE: LION & THE RAMBLER

When it came to culinary adventures, few places could match the tasting menus at Lion & The Rambler. Maybe it was too edgy for the city, or maybe it was too much on the edge of the city. Either way, we miss it.

READER’S CHOICE: TARPON BEND. Even years later, the heart wants what it wants.

BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG

STAFF CHOICE: AROUND GRANADA GOLF COURSE

What South Florida’s urban core misses the most is a wide open space. The Granada Golf Course provides that in the city’s center, and the long walk around its perimeter is heaven for a pup.spa

READER’S CHOICE: COUNTRY CLUB PRADO. A long corridor of green grass, which Fido loves.

STAFF CHOICE: THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES

While we love the giant bench at Balboa Plaza, the sheer weight of public art at The Plaza’s open courtyard is amazing, from the golden “Mean Average,” to the giant “Waiting” mice, to the shimmering balls of the “Coral Fountains.”

READER’S CHOICE: THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES. Right on.

BEST PARK

What doesn’t this park provide? There’s green space. A dog run. Tennis courts. Pickleball courts. Plus, great interactive devices for the

BEST PUBLIC ART

STAFF CHOICE: SALVADORE PARK

BEST GOLF COURSE: BILTMORE GOLF COURSE

kids, including slides, a zip line, and tree houses, all under umbrellas.

READER’S CHOICE: SALVADORE PARK. The site of our fondest childhood memories.

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS

STAFF CHOICE: FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

We may all be used to living in the only semi-tropical environment in the USA, but for people from elsewhere, the experience of palm trees, rainforest, butterfly houses, and the occasional alligator is truly magical.

READER’S CHOICE: FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN. Tourists and locals align.

BEST PLACE TO MEET WOMEN

STAFF CHOICE: BOOKS & BOOKS

Since we are a city of great learning and high culture, this is the natural place to meet someone of the fairer sex. Just don’t ask them if

they’re into Kafka or Bukowski. If they are, just walk away.

READER’S CHOICE: THE BAR. Where books fail, booze is the next best social lubricant.

BEST PLACE TO MEET MEN

STAFF CHOICE: HILLSTONE

If you meet a man here, you’ll at least know that he is a member of the white collar club, and someone with reasonably good taste. Plus, they have a great happy hour, so you’ll at least drink well.

READER’S CHOICE: BOOKS & BOOKS, HILLSTONE, AND BULLA GASTROBAR ALL TIED

BEST PARKING PLACE

STAFF CHOICE: ALHAMBRA CIRCLE

We hate to even tell you this, because it means you’ll take all the places. But when it comes to cruising Giralda Plaza or Aragon or even the Mile, there always seems to be a place on Alhambra. Just have to walk a block or two.

READER’S CHOICE: ARAGON AVE./MUSEUM GARAGE. Yes, the best place for events. ■

BEST PLACE TO MEET WOMEN: BOOKS & BOOKS

Mr. Merrick’s Orderly Laws

THE BLUEPRINT OF CORAL GABLES LIES IN THE LAWS OF THE CITY’S FOUNDER, MANY STRANGE AND STILL ON THE BOOKS

BY PARI WALTER

George Merrick’s meticulously planned Coral Gables, conceived a century ago, continues to be influenced by his visionary ideas – and by the laws that he implemented. We did a deep dive to see what strange ordinances are still on the books today and discovered a fascinating interplay between the City’s beginnings and the regulations that continue to shape our community. These laws serve as a unique testament to City founders’ commitment to preserving the refined and distinctive character of Coral Gables.

Easy on Those Garage Sales!

Section 3-604 of the Zoning Code details the application process, fees, and restrictions for hosting a garage sale in Coral Gables. The restrictions address the contents, hours, frequency and signage of garage sales: Only the seller’s personal property “usual to a household” can be sold, and only between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm; a sale cannot last for more than two consecutive days; and the same household cannot hold more than two garage sales within a calendar year and not within 30 days of each other. Also, only one Garage Sale sign can be on the premises, it must be smaller than 40 inches, and cannot be placed further than five feet from property lines.

Cats Can’t Move in Silence

Section 10-6 of the City’s Code of Ordinances calls it a cat owner’s “duty” to equip outdoor cats with a bell whenever they are not securely confined. This practice aims to prevent cats from preying on native birds.

Only One Pickup Truck, and with Stipulations

According to section 43-411 of the Code of Ordinances, one pickup truck may be parked outside of a residence if all the following requirements are met: there are no items in the bed of the vehicle; the vehicle has no commercial markings or advertising and no commercial equipment or appendage attached; the vehicle is unmodified and has no more than four wheels.

Maintaining Design Standards

The regulations governing residences in Coral Gables showcase Merrick’s commitment to upholding a consistent aesthetic character and enhancing property values. The Board of Architects reviews everything – color, design, fenestration, texture, and architectural

elements – to decide if the external appearance of a structure is compatible to architecture of that neighborhood and to create “an intrinsic sense of order between buildings.” According to Section 5-1103 of the Zoning Code, all buildings constructed or reconstructed are expected to be designed in a specific architectural style, including Colonial, Venetian, Mediterranean, Italian, French, Bahamian, or another identifiable style.

Forget Starting a Farm

Section 10-9 deals with less exotic animals, but reinforces Merrick’s aim to maintain an elegant ambiance by prohibiting the keeping, breeding, or feeding of horses, livestock, and fowl. While some

restrictions were relaxed during wartime, Merrick’s intention was to prevent Coral Gables from resembling a rural farming community.

No Menageries, Please

Merrick also implemented restrictions on pet ownership within Coral Gables, aimed at preventing animal hoarding. Section 10-10 of the Code of Ordinances limits residents to a maximum of four adult dogs or four adult cats, preventing the accumulation of pets that could become a nuisance.

No nightclubs, crematories, or casinos

Section 43-401 of the Code of Ordinances prohibits nightclubs as

BILTMORE ROW BY MG DEVELOPER

the primary use of a building, along with crematories and casinos. These restrictions align with the city’s focus on maintaining a serene and wholesome atmosphere. For bars and restaurants, this means that alcoholic beverages cannot exceed 49 percent of their total quarterly gross sales receipts/revenues. (Hope they are selling a lot of Shepard’s Pie at John Martin’s Irish Pub!)

Get Out the Roundup

It is against the law to permit weeds to grow to a height of 12 inches or more, per Section 34-55 of the Code of Ordinances, punishable by a civil penalty of $200.

Elephants, Rhinos, and Apes Aren’t Allowed

During the 1920s Florida Real Estate Boom, Carl Fisher, a prominent figure in Miami Beach’s development, employed elephants for marketing purposes. P.T. Barnum and Tony Goldman joined forces with Fisher, bringing the circus to town. This spectacle contradicted George Merrick’s vision of a refined city. To prevent Coral Gables from being turned into a circus-like environment, Merrick enacted several regulations, one of which is Section 10-8, prohibiting the presence of pachyderms (thick-skinned mammals like elephants and rhinos) and wild or horned animals within the city limits.

Color Me Calm

Section 5-100 mandates that before repainting or making significant changes, property owners must submit color samples to the City’s Board of Architects for approval. This meticulous oversight ensures that new additions and renovations align with the city’s architectural heritage and “promote orderly and harmonious development of the City.” A list of pre-approved Benjamin Moore and

Sherwin Williams paint colors are visible on the Board of Architects’ website. Think shades like Cancun Sand, Provence Cream, or Lacey Pearl (Benjamin Moore), or Polite White, Lightweight Beige, or Relaxed Khaki (Sherwin Williams).

Building “Med bonus”

Section 5-200 of the zoning code permits additional height and volume bonuses for “Coral Gables Mediterranean Architecture” designs that “continue to support George Merrick’s vision and be consistent with the thematic established historic building fabric of the City.” The zoning code requires design elements and architectural styles of well-known Coral Gables buildings, including the Biltmore Hotel, City Hall, and Coral Gables Elementary School (now Coral Gables Preparatory Academy), among others.

No Liquor Deliveries on Sundays

According to Section 6-14 of Code of Ordinances, no distributors should make alcohol deliveries on Sundays, and no retail alcohol vendors of alcoholic “shall solicit, accept or receive deliveries on Sunday.” Fortunately, you can drink on Sundays, just don’t roll the barrels in then. ■

Drinking in the Gables

THE PRESENCE OF ALCOHOL IN THE CITY BEAUTIFUL HAS EVOLVED BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS SINCE ITS EARLY PROHIBITION DAYS BY PATRICK ALEXANDER FROM HIS UPCOMING BOOK “CORAL GABLES: THE FIRST 100 YEARS”

Any visitor to downtown Coral Gables on a Friday Gallery Night, navigating the crowds of art-lovers wending their way artistically from gallery to gallery with their plastic wine glasses, would be surprised to learn that Coral Gables has long been a “dry city.” No bars are permitted within city limits and alcohol is only supposed to be served in establishments that “primarily” serve food. When Coral Gables first became a city, Prohibition had been in force for more than six years. George Merrick’s wife Eunice, a Christian Scientist, was fiercely opposed to

drink, and George himself was a recovering alcoholic. Nonetheless, Miami was reputed to be the “leakiest place in America,” with rum, brandy, and whiskey being imported from Cuba and the Bahamas. Not only was the Biltmore Hotel said to offer a discreet basement speakeasy throughout Prohibition, but gangsters like Fatty Walsh were also alleged to offer liquor – in addition to girls and gambling – upstairs in what is now known as the Al Capone Suite. But following the end of Prohibition in 1933, while Miami and Coconut Grove developed

OPENED IN 1994, THE GLOBE WAS AN IMMEDIATE SUCCESS

a deliberately louche and raffish reputation, the Gables prided itself on an abundance of places to worship and a lack of places to drink. Even when this writer first moved to the Gables in 1985, the only places where a man could sit at the bar and order an honest drink were outside city limits.

Catering to thirsty Gables drinkers on the far side of Red Road sat Duffy’s, where the elite and effete met to drink. It was a fine drinking establishment in 1985 and it remains a fine establishment today, still serving a wide range of beers on tap under the ever-present guidance of the landlord Wayne – who knows where all the bodies are buried.

To the east, on the city’s other side, sat the Bushwhacker Lounge. The Bushwhacker was one of those uniquely American bars; a cocktail bar where it was always 4 am, whatever time of day you entered. A sad song, often Sinatra, was always playing softly on the jukebox, smoke from abandoned cigarettes spiraled from ashtrays on the bar, and the shades were always tightly drawn in case daylight should attempt to intrude. Wine was not available, beer came in bottles with American labels, rye took preference over bourbon, and credit was not an option. Patrons either sat in the padded Naugahyde

banquets, heads close together while they spoke discreetly in hushed tones, or at the plastic-topped bar, alone with their solitary thoughts. Sadly, the Bushwhacker is now closed; pulled down to celebrate the brave new century. There is nowhere left these days where a man can sit and ponder the meaning of the words to Old Blue Eyes’ soft crooning of “My Way.”

Apart from the Hoffbrau on Giralda, which had been a quiet neighborhood bar since 1946, in 1985, the only places to get a drink within city limits were the hotel bars – either the Biltmore or Stuart’s Bar in the Hotel St. Michel; both hurried afterthoughts to the real business of serving food and filling beds.

The golden age of drinking in the Gables dawned in 1987 with the opening of Doc Dammers Bar in the Colonnade Hotel, named after George Merrick’s salesman who made Coral Gables such a successful reality. Because it was a hotel bar, Doc Dammers had a liquor license, and it immediately became known as the place for martinis and mojitos. In those days, even many Gables restaurants did not have liquor licenses and, despite its well-deserved reputation for fine dining, Coral Gables could offer few places

DUFFY’S TAVERN ON RED ROAD, WHICH OPENED IN 1985 IS STILL A FAVORITE WITH LOCALS TODAY.

DOC DAMMERS (BELOW) WAS GEORGE MERRICK’S SALESMAN AND WOUD INVITE NEW SALES PROSPECTS TO A GLASS OF FRESHLY MADE ICE TEA

other than Christy’s which allowed you to complete your meal with a cognac – and even fewer where you could begin your meal with a proper Manhattan. Presiding over Coral Gables’ first real bar at Doc Dammers was Richard the barman, tall and elegant in his crisp white shirt and black bow tie, bringing a sophistication that attracted men in suits, women attracted to men in suits, and magical cocktail mixes that blended them all together.

Doc Dammers and Richard soon found competition from John Martin’s Bar & Grill, which opened in 1989 less than a block away on Miracle Mile. Richard was suddenly competing for clients with Chris Shipp behind the bar at John Martin’s. Equally elegant in black tie and starched Dickies, Chris, who had been raised in Cornwall, brought an English savoirfaire to John Martin’s bar. And for several years, John Martin’s and Doc Dammers competed across Ponce de Leon for the beating (but not stirred) heart of Coral Gables.

John Martin’s was originally promoted as a restaurant specializing in fine Irish cuisine. It had a bar, but you could not sit at it – or even lean against it. Originally, because of city regulations, it was not possible to “belly up to the bar” and order a drink. Patrons had to sit at tables. Even if you were sitting at a table wedged against the bar and you placed your glass on the bar to order “the same again,” the barman would still have to place your refilled glass on a tray, carry it out from behind the bar, and serve you from the floor of the restaurant. But for whatever reason – the rich, old, oak paneling; the quality of the Guinness; Chris’s corny Cornish dignity behind the bar – the bar soon dominated the restaurant in importance, and Martin was obliged to request City permission to enlarge it just to contain the thirsty throngs.

After a two-year probation for the Irish pub, the Gables Commissars discovered that the city’s walls had not, in fact, crumbled to dust. Moral Gables remained pure and intact, and John Martin’s was finally granted a full liquor license. For more than 30 years, it was, deservedly, the most popular bar within the city, and, on St. Patrick’s Day, multitudes filled the streets for several city blocks. Sadly, the grand establishment did not survive the COVID-19 pandemic; John Clarke and Martin Lynch retired home to the Emerald Isle and, though the name and

location remain unchanged, the bar is now under new management.

In 1994, Lorraine, one of the original Irish servers from John Martin’s, and her fiancé, Danny Gutierrez, opened a small bar on the corner of Alhambra and Le Jeune, an unpromising street filled with dentist’s offices and limited parking. The Globe became an immediate success. For several years, traffic passing through the Gables would avoid Alhambra on a Friday evening because of The Globe’s happy hour crowds, which spilled onto the street, reducing it from three to a single lane of traffic.

For a few years, The Globe’s success threatened the other bars and restaurants in the city. Harald Neuweg’s Mozart Stube, for example, was just one block behind The Globe, and business became so bad that he was forced to open a new bar, Satchmo’s, on Merrick Way – the other, far side of town. The happy hour crowd, being fickle, was soon following Harald west, and the streets of Merrick Way become impassable on Friday evenings. Satchmo’s was also an immediate success and Harald eventually transformed it into Fritz & Franz Bierhaus, which remains there defiantly today, successfully mixing German beer with the blues of the Mississippi Delta while gallantly fighting City Hall over lease extensions. Thanks to the incredible success of The

JOHN CLARKE AND MARTIN LYNCH RAISE A GLASS OF GUINNESS IN JOHN MARTIN’S, THE BAR THEY OPENED IN 1989 ON MIRACLE MILE AND WHICH HAS REMAINED A CORAL GABLES FAVORITE EVER SINCE.

BELOW: LORRAINE, AN ORIGINAL IRISH SERVER FROM JOHN MARTIN’S, AND DANNY GUTIERREZ, OWNERS OF THE GLOBE AT ALHAMBRA AND LEJEUNE.

Globe, Coral Gables became an alternative destination to South Beach. The Globe created the initial sexy buzz, and John Martin’s and Satchmo’s, both of which had liquor licenses, provided the supporting infrastructure. Suddenly, the Gables became a “destination” for young people seeking an alternative to South Beach. These days, there are cafes, wine bars, and pubs all over the city. Even such sober cultural centers as Books & Books offer a literary but lively open-air wine bar, presided over by the everdignified Raul – not to mention all those popular Wine Appreciation Classes among the bookshelves – while less than a block away, La Taberna Giralda even offers live Flamenco dancers with its Spanish wines, sherries, and tapas.

A couple of years after The Globe first started bringing hipsters to the Gables, the old Hoffbrau found new owners, who renamed it The Bar. Since 1997, it has taken on a new lease of life as a neighborhood meeting place with an impressive selection of international beers. Even Stuart’s Bar in the Hotel St. Michel saw a brief revival when “Ladies’ Half Price Tuesdays” attracted ladies in dresses and men attracted to ladies in dresses.

It can be argued that the emergence of Coral Gables as a civilized place to enjoy good fellowship over a shared bottle or two originated with the magic bartending skills of Lorraine Gutierrez at The Globe and Chris Shipp at Fritz & Franz – both of whom served their apprenticeship at John Martin’s, the true heart of the Coral Gables drinking experience. ■

Patrick Alexander has written four murder mystery books with Coral Gables as a setting, along with several non-fictions, including “Boomer: The Story of the Baby Boomer Generation 19462024,” two studies of the French writer Marcel Proust, and a book on wine appreciation.

Houses of Worship

CLUB-GOING HAD ITS PLACE IN THE CITY’S FORMATIVE YEARS, BUT SO DID CHURCHGOING. GUESS WHICH VINTAGE PLACES CONTINUE TO INSPIRE US AS TIME GOES BY?

BY BRUCE FITZGERALD AND KARELIA MARTINEZ CARBONELL

BY VICKI CERDA

During the initial planning stages of Coral Gables, much attention was paid to a surprisingly broad range of lifestyle needs: residential, to be sure, but also recreational, commercial, educational, social, cultural, governmental and, last but hardly least, spiritual.

As the son of a Congregational minister, George Merrick had a holistic vision for a master-planned development in sub-tropical Florida that was as much about community as it was about aesthetics. Homes, hotels, shops, restaurants, offices, boulevards, gardens, golf

COMBER HALL AT THE CHURCH OF THE LITTLE FLOWER (TOP LEFT) 1251 PALERMO AVE.

DESIGNED IN 1927 BY GERALD A. BARRY, TODAY’S COMBER HALL FUNCTIONED AS THE ORIGINAL PLACE OF WORSHIP UNTIL THE PRESENT, ADJACENT CHURCH WAS BUILT IN 1951 (ALSO DESIGNED BY BARRY). COMBER HALL IS A DESIGNATED HISTORICAL LANDMARK THAT IS NOW A POPULAR WEDDING VENUE.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF CORAL GABLES (BOTTOM LEFT) 536 CORAL WAY

BUILT IN 1926 AND DESIGNED BY WILLIAM H. MERRIAM, THIS HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURE FEATURES A SCHANTZ PIPE ORGAN THAT WAS INSTALLED IN THE MAIN SANCTUARY IN 1994, NOTABLY ADDING TO THE CHURCH’S ALREADY RICH MUSICAL HERITAGE.

CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST (ABOVE) 3010 DE SOTO BLVD.

DESIGNED IN 1923 AND MODELED AFTER A CATHEDRAL IN MEXICO, THIS LANDMARKED BUILDING WAS THE FIRST CHURCH ERECTED IN CORAL GABLES. THE ARCHITECTS WERE KIEHNEL & ELLIOTT, WHO ALSO DESIGNED EL JARDIN (TODAY THE CARROLLTON SCHOOL), THE CARLYLE HOTEL, AND THE COCONUT GROVE PLAYHOUSE, AMONG MANY OTHER TREASURES.

courses, schools, and churches were all part of a new purpose-driven mix. While Saturday night would have its jazz clubs, Sunday morning would have its places of worship. And amen to that.

As if to reinforce the city’s hybrid appeal, the design of places of worship in the 1920s and beyond spanned the religious gamut –from Protestant to Catholic to Jewish to nondenominational. Here we highlight a few existing buildings -- from grand to modest – and their distinctive interpretations of faith-based architecture. ■

PHOTOS

ST. BEDE EPISCOPAL CHAPEL, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI (TOP) 1150 STANFORD DR.

THIS SIMPLE MODERN CHAPEL WAS DESIGNED BY MARION MANLEY (THE FIRST WOMAN ARCHITECT IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA) IN 1958. THE A-FRAME CONFIGURATION HAS ITS ROOTS IN JAPAN, CHINA, AND EUROPE, WITH A U.S. SURGE IN POPULARITY FOLLOWING WWII. THE DRAMATIC SHAPE IS SAID TO REPRESENT HANDS IN PRAYER.

TEMPLE JUDEA (MIDDLE)

5500 GRANADA BLVD.

DESIGNED BY THE CELEBRATED ARCHITECT MORRIS LAPIDUS AND COMPLETED IN 1966, TEMPLE JUDEA FEATURES THREE DISTINCT PAVILION-LIKE COMPONENTS REPRESENTING WORSHIP, STUDY, AND ASSEMBLY. IT WAS DESIGNATED AS A CORAL GABLES HISTORIC LANDMARK IN 2013.

GRANADA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (BOTTOM) 950 UNIVERSITY DR.

H. GEORGE FINK’S 1974 DESIGN OF THE MAIN SANCTUARY FEATURES A STATELY FACADE WITH TALL COLUMNS TOPPED BY A WIDE PEDIMENT, CONVEYING AN OVERALL IMPRESSION OF TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND CHRISTIAN VALUES.

SAVED AND REPURPOSED

SEVERAL OF THE CITY’S MOST HISTORIC HOUSES OF WORSHIP HAVE THANKFULLY BEEN PRESERVED AND SUBSEQUENTLY REPURPOSED TO SERVE 21ST-CENTURY CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL NEEDS.

ST. MARY’S FIRST MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH (TOP) 136 FROW AVE.

FOUNDED IN 1924, ST. MARY’S WAS THE FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHURCH IN CORAL GABLES. IN 1958, ARCHITECT J. FRANK BRADLEY DESIGNED THE BUILDING SEEN TODAY AS A REPLACEMENT FOR THE ORIGINAL WOODEN SANCTUARY. RECENTLY, IT WAS PURCHASED AND RESTORED BY MIKE EIDSON AS A COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER.

FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST (MIDDLE) 410 ANDALUSIA AVE.

TWO STRUCTURES WERE BUILT ON THE PROPERTY (IN 1930 AND THE EARLY 1940S), BOTH DESIGNED BY PHINEAS PAIST. A LONG-TERM LEASE FOR THE LATER AND LARGER BUILDING WAS ACQUIRED BY MIKE EIDSON IN 2019, AND THE REPURPOSED AND HISTORICALLY DESIGNATED BUILDING IS NOW A NON-PROFIT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER KNOWN AS THE SANCTUARY FOR THE ARTS

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF SOUTH MIAMI (BOTTOM) 6565 RED RD.

THE ORIGINAL CHAPEL WAS DESIGNED BY LOYD FRANK VAN AND JOHN M LYELL IN 1948. IT INCLUDES NOTEWORTHY STAINED-GLASS WINDOWS. THE LARGER SANCTUARY WAS DESIGNED BY WILLIAM H. MERRIAM IN 1962 AND WAS RECENTLY PURCHASED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI TO BE REPURPOSED. THE PROPERTY WAS LANDMARKED IN 2009.

Meandering About Town #13

AN ADVENTURE IN WHICH A FORMER MAYOR CONTINUES TO SEEK THE “SOUL” OF HIS HOMETOWN

BY DON SLESNICK

This ramble takes on a different approach in that it is more of a photographic essay than a wordy diatribe about our beloved city. “Soul” is defined by Webster’s New Universal Unabridged Dictionary as: “the spiritual embodiment of a shared awareness and pride in something other than oneself.” It is my search for the root cause of that shared pride in our hometown that continues to push me forward in my meanderings.

What better example of residents sharing a sense of community spirit than the recent 4th Annual Family Literary Festival held in

TOP LEFT: ANA LAM, CRIME WATCH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WITH HER DAUGHTER-IN-LAW, GRANDSON, AND A LONG-TIME VOLUNTEER

TOP RIGHT: PHIL BOSWELL, FELIX PARDO, SALLY BAUMGARTNER, (BEHIND) GREG AND MARIA PETRINO, JENNIFER KILA

MIDDLE LEFT: COMMUNITY REC TEAM - SARAH ESPINO, SUSAN LAINFIESTA, PAULSON JEAN, CAROLINA VESTER, AND HER DAUGHTER

MIDDLE RIGHT: FESTIVAL FOUNDER AND CHAIR SAM JOSEPH WITH BOOKS & BOOKS PROPRIETOR (EXTRAORDINAIRE) MITCH KAPLAN

BOTTOM LEFT: JOSH GOODMAN AND CECI SLESNICK

the public areas surrounding the War Memorial Youth Center and the Coral Gables Library. This yearly event is attributable to the work of its chair and founder, Sam Joseph, and the staff of the Coral Gables Community Recreation Department.

It was a bright, beautiful South Florida day in May with everyone from senior citizens to infants enjoying one another’s company, playing educational games, learning about opportunities for volunteer service in community organizations and committees, and, of course, gaining an appreciation for the printed word: BOOKS!

I must say with a great deal of pride that my deceased wife was honored for her work with Sam in supporting the creation of this wonderful gift to the citizens of our city with the naming of the main festival throughfare “Jeannett Slesnick Literacy Row.”

Now let’s let my photos do the talking – these are images of our community’s “soul.” ■

This column appears monthly by Don Slesnick, who served as mayor of Coral Gables from 2001 to 2011. If you wish to reach him with suggestions on where he should next meander in search of the city’s soul, email donslesnick@scllp.com.

Mr. Nickholas & Adelyn Avalos, Miami, Fl Photographer @xeniasmphotography

50 Restaurants in Coral Gables

JULY-AUGUST DINING GUIDE

Jul-Aug 2024

With so many new restaurants opening in the Gables, you’ll always have plenty of places to try. What follows is our list of the best of the tried and true, and the best of the new, many of which opened just this year. We dine at all locations anonymously, and we list only the places where we love to eat.

$ ............ Under $25

$$ .......... $25-$40

$$$ ........ $35-$75

$$$$ ...... $70-$100+

Prices are per person for appetizer and entrée, without tax, tip, or drinks. Prices are approximations.

450Gradi

Even with so many Italian restaurants in Coral Gables, it’s hard to find a good slice of pizza. Yes, we like a lot of them – but love… that’s reserved for 450Gradi’s pizzas, which are wonderfully inventive and deliciously layered, featuring ingredients like pork cheek and truffle cream. Chef Antonio applies the same panache to the eggplant parm, steak tartare, branzino, tomahawk steak, carbonara truffle, and so much more. 130 Miracle Mile #101. 786.391.1276. $$$

Armstrong Jazz House

Ever since the city shuttered Open Stage Club on Galiano Street, Coral Gables has suffered a deficit in jazz venues. Now, your jazz sweet tooth can be satisfied all week long at Armstrong Jazz House. The nightly schedule features a jazz saxophone from 5 to 7 pm, then a jazz combo from 7 to 10 pm, followed by the return of the solo saxophonist. The menu is a work in progress, but the vibe is sweet and well worth a visit. 271 Miracle Mile. 305.488.9955. $$

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila’s eighth location gives us our latest go-to locale for all-day quick bites, including a hidden backroom mezcal lounge. The wide selection of authentic cuisine mixed with unconventional interpretations solidifies Bodega as a true taqueria, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get

the classics here. And, of course, grab a shot of tequila. 317 Miracle Mile. 786.785.1501. $$

Bouchon Bistro

Michelin-starred Chef Thomas Keller is considered one of the top masters of French cuisine inthe country, which he proves with aplomb at his latest venture into traditional French fare. Withromantic courtyard seating outside at the restored La Palma Hotel and an elegant interior, to sup in Bouchon is to dine in late 19th century Paris. Try the Poulet Roti and the rainbow trout. 2101 Galiano St. 305.990.1360. $$$-$$$$

Chala Taqueria

The dazzling, somewhat overpowering decor at Chala Taqueria is an apt representation of its similarly flavorful food, which incorporates locally-sourced ingredients and recipes inspired from 10 different Mexican states. The menu features Mexican classics like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and, of course, tacos. Our favorite is the birria but vegans have options as well. 153 Giralda Ave.786.464.6793.

$-$$

The Collab

When we first heard Chef Niven Patel was leaving his two concepts at the THesis Hotel, Orno and Mamey, we were despondent. But, we’re happy to report that Orno’s replacement, Chef Nicolas Mazier’s The Collab, is a gastronomic success equal to that of Chef Patel’s. We love the beef tartare, served on bite-sized pieces of crispy bao buns and combined with black garlic aioli, pickled mustard seeds, chives, and an onion jam that elevates the beef to astronomic levels. Simply divine. 1350 S Dixie Hwy. (THesis Hotel). 305.667.6766. $$$

CVI.CHE 105

If you want to delve into the wide array of flavors that Peru has to offer, there is no better place than the new CVI.CHE 105 at The Plaza Coral

Gables. The menu is rich with seafood, including a fine selection of tiraditos, ceviches, and rolls, along with an array of fried and grilled selections of mahi mahi, snapper, Pacific white fish, shrimp, etc. And there’s even a special Gables menu that you won’t find at any of the other South Florida locations. 111 Palermo Ave. #108. 786.527.3939. $$-$$$

FAIRWAYS

Though the food is great, and the drinks even more so, it’s the ambience and the views that wow at this golfer’s paradise by the Biltmore Hotel golf course. Sunset views of the course and a beautiful outdoor patio pair with an airy interior well-suited for the hotter summer days. All-day breakfast items are a huge plus. 1200 Anastasia Ave. (The Biltmore Hotel). 305.445.8066. $$

Francesco

The latest fusion restaurant in the Gables is a marriage between Peruvian and Italian, a slightly strange but happy coupling that combines ceviche and lomo saltado with squid ink risotto and New York strip steak. Still, Peruvian remains the focus here, especially when it comes to the appetizers, where all

but one is seafood. The cocktails are fabulous, as is the Canelones De Aji De Gallina, a sort of Peruvian-Italian enchilada. 278 Miracle Mile. 305.797.4039. $$$

GreenG Juice & Acai

Another health-conscious cafe has made its way to the Gables. Located on Miracle Mile, GreenG Juice & Acai is the perfect spot to go for an energizing breakfast or post-workout bite. We love the avocado toast with goji berries and a nut-based sour cream, the acai bowls, and the cold-pressed juices are a nice touch. 376 Miracle Mile. $-$$

Il Duomo Dei Sapori

Yet another entry into Coral Gables’ spate of Italian eateries, Il Duomo Dei Sapori appears to have simply materialized as a fully formed fine dining restaurant on Ponce. Our favorite here is the chicche di patate al tartufo ($35), which is code for “creamy gnocchi with truffle.” 2312 Ponce de Leon. 305.381.5604. $$$-$$$$

La Pata Gorda

Ecuadorian restaurant La Pata Gorda has expanded its reach to Coral Gables, the first outside of its home country. Here, you can find authentic

Ecuadorian sea cuisine, including crab claws, Ecuadorian ceviches, and various fish and shellfish-based dishes. Proprietor Josué Sánchez says the name alludes to eating Ecuadorian crabs family-style, where everyone is vying to grab “the fat crab leg.” 232 Miracle Mile. 786. 963.8171. $$-$$$

Los Ranchos

This South Florida chain has now opened a location on Ponce, right across from The Plaza. It’s surprisingly refined inside, with white tablecloths and an upscale ambience. The steakhouse makes the bold claim that it has “Miami’s best steaks,” and while we’re not sure if we’d go that far, they’re certainly delicious. Lunch specials, to which you can add a salad for $4 more, are wonderfully affordable as well, ranging from $10 to $17. And we’ve been reassured a new happy hour menu is soon to come. 2728 Ponce De Leon. 305.200.5153. $$-$$$

Mai Sushi Tapas & Bar

A large portion of the menu here is on sticks, a variety of skewers and sushi pintxos inspired by the Spanish bar snacks but reinvented to spotlight sea ingredients like freshwater eel, sea urchin, and octopus. And as the name suggests, there’s sashimi – both traditional and elevated – as well as sushi rolls and beverages made with shochu,

the distilled Japanese spirit. 98 Miracle Mile. 206.696.0674. $$

Maiz y Agave

With three stories, three menus, and three different concepts for lunch, dinner, and happy hour/drinks, Maiz y Agave is probably Coral Gables’ most ambitious restaurant.The first floor is devoted to a more casual lunch, the second-floor is for a more refined dinner, and the rooftop bar has spectacular sunset views of City Hall. Every dish here comes straight out of Oaxaca, Mexico, including the insects! 375 Miracle Mile. 305.723.9898. $$-$$$

Ojo de Agua

With over 35 locations in Mexico, restaurant chain Ojo de Agua now has a second location in Miami, right here on Miracle Mile. Ojo de Agua provides Gableites with a long list of fresh options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night bites (it’s open until 10 pm on weekdays), but what differentiates it from the slew of other health-conscious restaurants in the Gables is its nod to authentic Mexican flavors, albeit adapted for the American palate. 219 Miracle Mile. $$-$$$

Osumi

Offering elevated Japanese-American fusion cuisine with a Latin flair, this

cocktail and sushi bar has pulled out all the stops to cater to Gableites, from its sophisticated low-light ambiance to its signature drinks designed by the mixology masters from Cafe La Trova. The star here is the Tuna Sumibiyaki ($22), made up of thin slices of tuna laid in a creamy sesame sauce and topped with Asian pear and more cassava chips.110 Giralda Ave. 786.452.9902. $$$

Pisco y Nazca

Peruvian seems to be the taste of 2024, including the opening of ceviche gastrobar Pisco y Nazca. This prime location received a modernizing facelift

and has myriad seating options ideal for happy hour outings and group dinners. The pisco sours are exquisite. 101 Miracle Mile. 786.810.2266. $$-$$$

Sanguich De Miami

An unpretentious menu, a walk-up ventanita, and milkshakes made from local fruits are what characterize this newest offering at The Plaza Coral Gables. Sanguich made waves by winning three Bib Gourmand awards from the Michelin Guide over the last few years, and features a short menu comprised of the classics: pan con bistec (our favorite), media noche, pan

ZUCCA

con lechon, etc. It also offers coffee, batidos (fruit milkshakes), and a short collection of appetizers. 111 Palermo Ave. (The Plaza Coral Gables, first floor). $

Sansa Bakery

Featuring a selection of croissants, cookies, macarons and more, Sansa Bakery takes the cake in affordability without sacrificing taste. With all its pastries made in-house, its most famed is the pastéis de nata ($3.50), a rich Portuguese egg custard that was the highlight of our experience. The bakery also offers savory choices, such as its specialty hot-dog croissant ($7), the perfect lunch break snack. 72 Miracle Mile. $

Shahs of Kabob

From a hole in the wall takeout place to a brick-and-mortar on Ponce, this instant hit serves up kabobs by the dozens, along with classic Middle Eastern dishes like slow-cooked meat stews ($16) and even some vegan dishes (hummus, $8; falafel, $14) for the non-carnivores among us. 2624 Ponce de Leon. 786.580.5865. $$

Sundays Croissanterie

Conveniently located on the first block of Miracle Mile, Sundays Croissanterie specializes in intricately made croissants, but also offers coffee, sandwich-

es, and other pastries in a light and airy space. Limited seating and a delectable case full of colorful sweets at the front. 374 Miracle Mile. sundaysbakeries. com. $

Tabanco

The newest edition to Coral Gables’ tapas scene has arrived! Tabanco has all of the usual suspects: croquetas, patatas bravas, Jamón Iberico, etc. Most of the plates are under $17, except for the Iberico slices, of course. Our favorite dish is the Puntas De Solomillo entrée, an Iberian pork tenderloin that comes swimming in a Cabrales blue cheese sauce. With hand-cut potatoes on the side, a perfect bite is a combination of each of the three elements. 327 Alhambra Cir. 786.449.5203. $$$

ITALIAN

Bugatti

Bugatti prides itself on its pasta – and for good reason, since the restaurant started as a pasta factory. The décor is simple and contemporary, with lots of booths, abd the service is crisp and superb. The dinner menu is straightforward, with pasta dishes mostly under $20 and entrees mostly under $30. And as many dessert listings (12) as pasta choices. 2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545. $$-$$$

305.913.3200. $$$

Fratellino

The ambiance is as elegant as it comes: the Biltmore’s famed fountain courtyard. You can sit under the stars, in a covered archway, or inside to enjoy classic Italian dishes. Fresh ingredients, from the salads to the pasta that is made daily. Excellent seafood, pastas cooked perfectly. One of the most romantic restaurants in the Gables. $$$ 1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel)

Small, family run, with a fanatically loyal fan base, brilliant Italian comfort food. The long narrow set up with tile floors, wooden chairs and tablecloths makes it feel like New York’s Little Italy. Their calamari, in any variation, is superb, as is the fettuccine with prosciutto, mushrooms and green peas. 264 Miracle Mile. 786.452.0068. $$$

ANTONIO CERRATO Creator Chef

Fontana

CHRISTY’S

Luca Osteria

The latest place by local celebrity chef Giorgio Rapicavoli (the Eating House), Luca Osteria became an overnight, reservations-only hit for dinner on Giralda Plaza. His inventive take on classic Italian food is fresh and new; the Pasta al Limone and mortadella toast with fig balsamic are just the beginning. Great Italian cocktails. 116 Giralda Ave. 305.381.5097. $$$-$$$$

Portosole

When they bring the pecorino cheese wheel to toss your pasta, you’re in heaven. Short of that, they do a fine job with the fritto misto, a mixture of calamari, shrimp, filet of sole, tiny artichokes, and zucchini, all lightly fried. Equally appetizing is the fresh burrata with heirloom tomatoes, a deceptively simple salad of tomato and burrata cheese. 2530 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 786.359.4275. $$$

Tullio

The brainchild of Lucio Zanon and his son Sebastiano — who previously launched Portosole — Tullio is a refreshing twist on Italian cuisine, with a northern sensibility, a focus on seafood, and some very inventive dishes. The fish is exceptionally fresh, the branzino

flown in from the coastal waters of Italy, the shrimp from the coastal waters of Argentina, and the lobster from the coastal waters of Maine. 2525 Ponce de Leon. 305.926.4208. $$$

Zucca

Moving soon out of the elegant St. Michel Hotel to a new location, this is a star in the galaxy of Italian eateries in the Gables. Distinctly northern Italian, with recipes that chef Manuel Garcia developed in a career that included the legendary Casa Tua on Miami Beach. Lovely outdoor seating, modern Italian design inside, sophisticated, with great service. 162 Alcazar Ave. 786.580.3731. $$$-$$$$

PUBS & CAFES

Bay 13 Brewery and Kitchen

The cuisine is largely Australian pub food – salmon Rangoon, chicken skewers, meat pies, fish & chips –the setting is spectacular, and the beer unbeatable at this newest hot spot. You can sit inside by the vast beer tankards, or outside with a fine view of the Alhambra fountain. 65 Alhambra Plaza. 786.452.0935. $$

Fritz and Franz Bierhaus

Be transported from Coral Gables

to Oktoberfest. Enjoy German comfort food like Weisswurst and Heringsschmaus. Our favorite is the currywurst. Naturally, you must order a beer, but here you can have it served in a giant glass boot. 60 Merrick Way 305.774.1883. $$

MIAM Cafe

This casual bistro joint is the second of its kind in Miami – the original location in Wynwood opened back in 2014. The menu mostly consists of breakfast and brunch food, plus smoothies and sandwiches. But the

real standouts here are the pastries, in particular the Nutella croissant ($4.50), which is large enough to count as a full meal, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with the hazelnut spread. 2300 Ponce de Leon. 305.200.3190. $-$$

Posto DOLCE

Located in the Biltmore’s lower lobby, this pastry shop slash quick market has gourmet coffees, juices, muffins, danishes, fruit, sandwiches, wraps, salads, gelato, bread, champagne, and beer. 1200 Anastasia

BULLA GASTROBAR

Ave. (The Biltmore Hotel). $$

Sports Grill

A go-to spot for any major sporting event, but also a popular destination for any given night of the week. You don’t even need to look at the menu: the pub is home to the Special Grilled wings, dipped in their signature sauce, then charbroiled and lightly covered in a secret sauce. 1559 Sunset Dr. 305.668.0396. $

Tinta y Café

Funky and comfortable, this former gas station turned Cuban café has 1) the best Cuban coffee 2) great fluffy eggs for breakfast 3) furniture that makes you feel like you are in someone’s living room and 4) all the other things that make you love Cuban food, like croquetas and media noche sandwiches. 1315 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.285.0101. $

Threefold Café

You have to love a place that is dedicated to breakfast all day long. But who needs dinner when you can get shrimp tacos for breakfast, along with salmon scrambled eggs, chicken parma, and that Millennial favorite, smashed avocado toast? The brainchild of Australian Nick

Sharp, Threefold is also popular for Sunday brunch. And the coffee is some of the best around. 141 Giralda Ave. 305.704.8007. $$

SPANISH

Bellmónt

Modern décor meets traditional Spanish dishes. Their house specialty is the roast suckling pig. If you want the whole pig ($230 for 4) you need to order four hours in advance. If it’s just you ($49), you’ll need to wait just 50 minutes. As for the rest: authentic Spanish cuisine, with great seafood dishes, fantastic paella. 339 Miracle Mile 786.502.4684. $$$

Bulla Gastrobar

As valued for its cocktails as for its tapas, Bulla is also something Coral Gables needs – an informal, smart neighborhood hangout with a young, boisterous vibe. Great “small plates” and refreshing sangria. Yes, it is a national chain, but it still feels local. 2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.0107. $$

La Taberna Giralda

Routinely rated among the top tapas places in South Florida, La Taberna brings the added twist of a chef from Galicia, who puts his own regional

.......... $25-$40

........ $35-$75

...... $70-$100+

spin on the dishes. It’s a small place with a neighborhood vibe, orange walls, string lights and live flamenco on the weekends ($5 cover), so reservations are a must. Great lunch specials. 254 Giralda Avenue 786.362.5677. $$ $ ............ Under $25

Prices are per person for appetizer and entrée, without tax, tip, or drinks. Prices are approximations.

Breakfast: 6:30am - 11am

Lunch: 11:30am - 5pm OPEN DAILY

Dinner: Sun - Thurs | 5pm - 8pm

Dinner: Fri & Sat | 5pm - 9pm

Happy Hour: Mon - Thurs | 4pm - 6pm

An Ode to the Blossom

We usually run our monthly “Where Am I?” contest on this page, with rewards for the correct answers that include theater tickets for Actors’ Playhouse and GableStage. With those venues on summer break, we decided to run an image of

the Royal Poinciana tree, whose abundance in the Gables leads to the Annual Royal Poinciana Festival in June. While the bloom may be off the rose, so to speak, the vibrant Royal – a native of Madagascar –stays with us all year. Photo by Rodolfo Benitez.