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CORAL GABLES

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Departments

EDITOR’S NOTE

READERS’ LETTERS Readers’

STREETWISE

The News From City Hall

The Candidates For April

Talk of the Town: S’mores

LIVING

Best Bets for January

A Night on the Town

New Store Openings

An IV Drip At Home

BITES

Quick Bites: Smoothies

Monday Night Specials

Six New Restaurants

Fine Dining: Luca Osteria

Lunch with Trowbridge

PEOPLE

Stefan Molina & Sofia Vasquez

William Bailine

Don Slesnick III

ART AND VOLUNTEERISM

In 1952, if you went to the University of Miami on a spring day to visit the Clothesline Sale, you’d walk past the Lowe Art Gallery (now the Lowe Art Museum) and see artwork crowded along the green, strung up on clotheslines. Today, in 2025, there’s little difference between the first Clothesline Sale and what is now known as the Beaux Arts Festival.

THE ART OF HEALTHY AGING

In Coral Gables, the largest segment of our population consists of seniors 65 years and older (almost 20 percent). So, as the New Year gets underway and everyone starts attempting to meet their new exercise goals, why not seniors too? Here, we’ve profiled six exemplary Gableites – super agers, if you will – from ages 76 to 100 that amazed us with their dedication to fitness. We hope they inspire you, too.

INSIDE THE IRON ARROW

One month after the University of Miami opened in 1926, the vision for the Iron Arrow honors society was born. Flash forward to 2022: the UM Student Senate voted overwhelmingly (28-5 with seven abstentions) on a resolution asking the university to disaffiliate itself from Iron Arrow.

THE VILLAGE GREEN

The original plan for Coral Gables included two ninehole golf courses and three 18-hole golf courses. In the end, two 18-hole courses were built for the Biltmore Hotel and only one nine-hole course was built for the public. A lot has changed since then.

The

Get Ready for the Centennial

By European standards – heck, even by the standards of Colonial America – 100 years is not profoundly old when it comes to things like architecture and cities in history. But for South Florida, the youngest part of a decidedly juvenile state, a century is a long time indeed. This year, as all good Gableites should know, marks the hundredth anniversary of the founding of Coral Gables by our pater metropolis George Merrick.

Therefore, this year you will see much of our city’s history unfold through a series of centennial features, looking at the organizations that were founded 100 years ago, and at the buildings that were erected 100 years ago. It is quite an array, from the Garden Club to the Women’s Club to the historic architecture designed by such notables as Phineas Paist and Denman Fink.

In this issue we already have a trio of historic stories, though only two go back all the way to 1925 – the history of the city’s golf courses, the history of UM’s Iron Arrow honor society – while the history of the Beaux Arts organization goes back a mere 75 years.

Of course, a city that does not keep re-inventing itself is doomed to be mired in

the past, and the Gables also prides itself on staying on the cutting edge of urban technology, so much so that it’s routinely recognized as one of America’s leading Smart Cities. 2025 is also important as an election year. In this issue we provide a brief look at the candidates for the positions of Mayor and two City Commission seats. For those of you who have followed the deplorable antics at City Hall in the last year, this year’s April election will prove pivotal. If the right candidates are elected, we just might return to the historically calm and wisely run government that was a hallmark of the Gables until the upset election of 2023. More on that as the next few months unfold. In the meantime, take a well-deserved bow for being the residents of a city that respects its past as it moves into the future.

JP FABER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CORAL GABLES MAGAZINE

of

CEO & PUBLISHER

Richard Roffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF J.P. Faber

EVP / PUBLISHER

Gail Scott

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amy Donner

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Monica Del Carpio-Raucci

VP SALES

Sherry Adams

MANAGING EDITOR

Kylie Wang

DIGITAL EDITOR

Amanda Martell

EDITORIAL INTERN

Patrick McCaslin

ART DIRECTOR

Jon Braeley

WRITERS

James Broida

Mike Clary

Andrew Gayle

Doreen Hemlock

Katelin Stecz

PROOFREADER

Lesley Fonger

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodolfo Benitez

Jonathan Dann

Danni Matter

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jorge Gustavo Gavilondo

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.

Cover:

Art

Healthy Aging with Gables Seniors. Photo by Rodolfo Benitez

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.

Keeping It Here

I am writing to inform your readers about the new Little Local retail app, which will be the new for shopping local in Coral Gables. Unlike anything else in South Florida, the app has brought together an entire business community at the touch of a button, allowing residents to shop small without leaving the comfort of their homes. Having my company, Devour Sweets, on the app has not only given me instant exposure to the Coral Gables business community, but has also given me a new collection of friends and opportunities.

I’m excited to see the whole city become more active on the app. Because WHEN they do -- not if –- more interactions will flow back and forth along Miracle Mile, more resources will pour into the heart of the community (small businesses), and overall, the City of Coral Gables will be more connected than ever. I can’t wait to witness and fortunately be a part of the future of Little Local and Coral Gables.

Katarina Alshaier, Owner, Devour Sweets

May I Retort?

The Coral Gables Neighbors Association (CGNA) recently sent out an email blast attacking Coral Gables Magazine as misrepresenting the facts at City Hall, in which commissioners Arial Fernandez, Melissa Castro and Kirk Menendez have voted to keep elections in April, fire a competent city manager and replace him with an unqualified, unvetted candidate, doubled their own salaries, accused the mayor of corruption with no evidence, and supported an illegal recall effort. This is one reader’s response.

By your [CGNA] logic perhaps we should restrict voting to only those who own property? Or maybe only property owners with bachelor’s degrees? I agree with Churchill who lamented that democracy was the worst form of government except for every other form of government. The answer to low voter participation in municipal elections is to make it easier to participate not harder. Combining local elections with state and federal elections will increase participation. I have no informed opinion on the previous city manager. However, I do have a

strong opinion on how civil service positions should be filled: Based on a thorough process of vetting candidates. This did not occur.

On the issue of salary levels I may agree that they should have been raised. But here again process matters. The proposed raise should not have been applied to the current commissioners without a referendum or after the last expiring term of the current commissioners. You don’t simply immediately raise your own salaries by 100%.

On the issue of Lago, a recall petitioner came to my door and when I asked, she told me she was being paid [which is illegal].

End of story.

As a registered left of center democrat, I was prepared to believe that [Mayor Vince] Lago was this arrogant guy who just was a sore loser. But when my partner and I call with a problem he is unfailingly polite and responsive. And on the issues of democracy and good governance he and [Vice Mayor Rhonda] Anderson I believe are correct. The three commissioners I previously supported are wrong. Very wrong.

Mike Elmaleh

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From City Hall

SOLAR POWERED BURGERS

Voted 5-0 to accept a $20,000 grant from the Villagers, Miami-Dade County’s oldest historic preservation organization, for the installation of solar panels on the roof of The Birdie Bistro (AKA the former Burger Bob’s).

MEDITERRANEAN UPDATED

Voted 5-0 to amend the city’s zoning code to make changes to the Mediterranean Bonus, which provides incentives for developments that match the city’s Mediterranean aesthetic (mostly allowing extra height). The proposed changes require a conceptual review by the Board of Architects, remove redundant criteria and supplement existing criteria, and include the use of more Mediterranean building examples. The item spurred much debate, including over an hour of public comment. Most residents favored more rigorous standards for the bonus, including former mayor Dorothy Thomson. “The heavy work has been done,” said Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson, who sponsored the item. “It’s time to… give the Board of Architects what they need in order to address better Mediterranean design….” The Commission also voted 5-0 to explore using additional conceptual reviews, including joint meetings between the Board of Architects, the Planning and Zoning Board, the City Architect, and the public.

A GRANT FOR FREEBEE

Voted 5-0 to accept a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation for Freebee funding in the amount of $255,185.

BILTMORE RESOLUTION

Listened to an update on the unpermitted alterations of the Biltmore Hotel’s lower lobby. Over the next 45 days, the city will inspect all historic areas of the hotel to ensure their integrity. An initial walkthrough revealed other unpermitted projects outside the lower lobby, which has been the focus of controversy. Commissioner Ariel Fernandez asked Biltmore EVP Tom Prescott, “What assurances can you give us as a Commission that this isn’t going to happen again?” He continued, “We need to be able to, as a city, trust that we can give you the keys to the Biltmore Hotel [and] it’s going to be preserved.” Prescott said he took the stewardship of the hotel “very seriously” and that meetings with city staff were already clarifying matters over what projects were considered regular maintenance and what needed permitting. Fernandez suggested having a full-time staffer at the Biltmore to keep an eye on things; City Manager Amos Rojas, Jr. assured him there would be more frequent evaluations at the hotel. Fernandez also suggested creating a Biltmore Advisory Board to suggest ways to improve the hotel.

MORE PICKLEBALL COURTS

Voted 5-0 to expedite the development of designs for dedicated pickleball courts at the Biltmore’s Kerdyk Tennis Center. The Commission also voted 5-0 to fund a planning study to maximize pickleball courts at Kerdyk without losing tennis courts.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Listened to Vice Mayor Anderson’s update on the city’s legislative priorities, which the city hopes to get passed by the state. Florida senators and representatives, most notably Senator Ileana Garcia (who represents Coral Gables), have sponsored several items to address public and private school bus safety, penalties for cyber stalking, penalties for operating a vessel while intoxicated, and guidelines for nature-based methods to improve coastal resilience.

Four new items are: prohibiting false statements to support the removal of trees and requiring a permit for stump grinding to avoid impacting underground lines; reducing future insurance costs in Florida and requiring discounts for property owners that invested in their homes to meet higher windstorm ratings; amending the Live Local Act to require notice to neighboring municipalities regarding projects within a prescribed radius; and amending the definition of “recovered materials” in Florida statutes to allow for composting and the reuse of green materials.

The city is also submitting three new projects for funding, including: improvements to road safety in Zone 5 (which straddles U.S.-1); ADA improvements in the Central Business District; and the rehabilitation of the Granada Basin sewer system to reduce ground and stormwater intrusion into the sanitary sewer system. The city is asking the state for just under $1.2 million total for these projects, which it will match by half.

UPDATE ON CITY HALL REPAIRS

Listened to an update on City Hall repairs and renovations. While shoring is expected to be completed by end of January, additional exploration and repair plans, plus the assessment, design, permitting, and procurement, will take another 2.5 years - meaning construction won’t even begin until mid-2027. Mayor Vice Lago called the schedule presented by staff “cautious” and “very, very conservative” and protested the evacuation of City Hall again. He and Assistant City Manager José Gómez disagreed over the safety of staff working at City Hall, which Lago maintained is perfectly safe.

Surprisingly, Commissioner Melissa Castro seemed to break from her colleagues Commissioners Fernandez and Kirk Menendez and indicated that she was open to keeping her office at City Hall occupied for now. Further updates will come once shoring is officially completed. The Commission voted 5-0 to negotiate a contract with Gables-based R.J. Heisenbottle Architects for the restoration work. ■

The Upcoming Elections: Candidates New & Old

With elections for the Coral Gables City Commission fast approaching on April 8, several new candidates have announced bids for the three open seats on the Commission. In our coming issues, we will give each candidate a full page to explain why they are running and what their positions are on varrious issues. For now, here’s who they are:

MAYOR

Mayor Vince Lago vs Commissioner Kirk Menendez vs Michael Anthony Abbott

In a surprise twist, current commissioner and retired attorney Kirk Menendez, who had previously announced his bid for reelection in Group 3, decided to pivot and run for mayor against longtime Commission member Mayor Vince Lago. Lago’s approval rating is impressively high, but he has lately faced opposition from Commissioners Menendez, Ariel Fernandez, and Melissa Castro, on items across the board.

With tensions high and unsubstantiated claims of corruption being bandied about, Menendez’s campaign seems very pointed. “I’ve decided to run for Mayor to ensure civility, stability, and selfless leadership guide our city’s future,” he said in an announcement, calling “the future of Coral Gables… as bright as it has ever been,” despite unfounded remarks he made earlier in the year calling the same city “a cesspool of corruption.” Lago’s platform emphasizes fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, environmental sustainability, additional city green spaces, lower taxes, and government transparency. He has been mayor since 2021.

A third candidate, businessman Michael Anthony Abbott, is also running. Vice president of M&A at logistics company SynXGlobal, he has far less name recognition than the two other candidates and no political background. But he is becoming more politically active as part of the group behind the nonprofit Coral Gables Action Committee, which has called for Lago to resign.

GROUP 3

Richard Lara vs Tom Wells

Earlier this year, attorney Richard Lara announced his candidacy for the Group 3 commissioner’s seat, running on a platform of “transparency, integrity, accountability, and professionalism.” He told Coral Gables Magazine back in May that he is committed to “reintroducing these vital qualities to the Commission” and “ensuring that decisions are made with proper regard for due process and public input.”

Meanwhile, his new opponent Tom Wells, also an attorney, is a frequent attendee at Commission meetings who has been outspoken about his support for the firing of former City Manager Peter Iglesias and his opposition to changing the city’s elections to coincide with federal ones. Both are longtime Gables residents.

GROUP 2

Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson vs Laureano Cancio

Also up for re-election this year, Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson has now fielded an opponent in Laureano Cancio. No surprise – both are attorneys. Anderson has been on the Commission for four years, while Cancio is a newcomer to the Coral Gables political scene. The Cuban immigrant grew up in the Gables and is championing traffic safety, controlling overdevelopment, and education. He apparently wants the city to run its own school system and has been outspoken about his disdain for Mayor Lago.

MAYOR

MAYOR VINCE LAGO

COMMISSIONER KIRK MENENDEZ

MICHAEL ANTHONY ABBOTT

GROUP 3

RICHARD LARA

TOM WELLS

GROUP 2

VICE MAYOR RHONDA ANDERSON LAUREANO CANCIO

Anderson, meanwhile, has spent her time as commissioner and now vice mayor supporting causes like ADA accessibility and organizations like the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida and the Coral Gables Garden Club (of which she is an active member). She has also taken the lead on drafting legislative priorities for the state to oversee, including lowering home insurance rates and advocating for better traffic safety laws. Other Gables causes she has championed are new dog parks, additional bicycle lanes, and amending the Mediterranean bonus to prevent abuse by developers. ■

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM (LEFT TO RIGHT):

3

7

Talk of the Town

Glam Camping for the Girls

One of the Gables’ biggest fundraisers is now the Campfires to Cocktails gala at Camp Mahachee, the 11-acre Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida compound across Old Cutler Road from Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens. This unique evening of glamping (short for “glamourous camping”) offers attendees the chance to experience the excitement of activities that Girl Scouting offers, including archery, fencing, axe throwing, making friendship bracelets, and, of course, roasting s’mores at the campfire. This year’s November event raised almost $500,000 for the organization and the nearly 3,000 girls it serves throughout Miami-Dade and the Keys. Kudos to this year’s host committee, headed by co-chairs (and GSTF board members) Gloria M. Velazquez and Ray Dueñas. While the event is obviously for girls only, a few men nonetheless slipped in – at least for a while – including former city mayor Don Slesnick and former Miami Herald publisher (and founder of The Children’s Trust) David Lawrence Jr. They won no contests, however. – JP Faber

When Women Ran the Show

Speaking about female pioneers, the inspirational tale of the golden age of luxury department stores – and the trailblazing women who ran them – was recently recounted by author Julie Satow from her latest book, “When Women Ran Fifth Avenue.” Satow read from her New York Times bestseller at an exclusive luncheon held at the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club, presented by philanthropist and high-powered realtor Judy Zeder. Over lunch, an audience of more than 60 accomplished and perfectly coiffed women listened to the

inspiring and glittering portrait of glamour and power at the dawn of American fashion, the golden age of American department stores, and of the three visionary women who led them.

Satow spoke of the 20th-century American department store as a literal palace of consumption where every wish could be met under one roof – afternoon tea, a stroll through the latest fashions, a wedding (or funeral) planning. It was a place where women, shoppers, and shopgirls alike could stake out a newfound independence. Whether in New York or Chicago, men owned the buildings, but inside it was women who ruled – Hortense Odlum of Bonwit Teller, Dorothy Shaver of Lord & Taylor, and Geraldine Stutz of Henri Bendel.

Zeder, part of The Judy Zeder Group of Coldwell Banker Realty, invited the author as part of her FORCE series about women

TOP: GLAMPING WITH GIRL SCOUT ALUMNI ON-STAGE SAYING THE GIRL SCOUT PROMISE AND LAW. ABOVE: A GUEST TRIES FENCING WITH

who are leaders in business, community, philanthropy, and education. “It was a privilege to have Julie recount her story of these remarkable women,” said Zeder. “These barrier-breaking women are an inspiration to all generations.” The late November event was cohosted by Coral Gables Trust and its managing director John Harris. – JP Faber

Gables Pride

We are always thrilled when national media recognizes Coral Gables as a name-brand city and not as a suburb of Miami. Last month, in an episode of the TV quiz show “Jeopardy,” the $1,000 clue in the category “Florida Women” was about legendary Gables women’s rights activist Roxcy Bolton. The question was: what annual day on August 26 was Bolton “the driving force behind”? Give up? The answer is National Women’s Equality Day, commemorating the day in 1920 when the 19th Amendment was certified, granting women the right to vote. – JP Faber

The Palace Shines Again

The Palace Group, South Florida’s largest family-owned senior living operator, has been honored for a second consecutive year by Fortune magazine as the “Best Large Workplace in Aging Services.” While it has nine locations in South Florida, the Coral Gables Palace on Valencia is considered the star location (and the subject of an MTV special), with a lobby designed to replicate the George V hotel in Paris and amenities that include an Olympic-size swimming pool, personal trainers, adult education classes, and a high-end restaurant and bar. The award was based on a survey of over 181,000

employees in the aging services industry. Nearly 100 percent of The Palace Group’s 1,600+ employees rated the company as a great workplace, well above the national average.

“This award reaffirms the positive culture we’ve cultivated across all our communities,” said Helen Shaham, The Palace Group’s president and founder, who accepted the award with husband Jacob Shaham. Employees were surveyed on workplace environment, trust in management, loyalty, accessibility of leaders, whether they feel respected, and whether they are proud of their work. “The family

atmosphere was the number one reason employees cited when asked about The Palace,” said Andrea Rodriguez, vice president of human resources. “They praised the accessibility of the owners and said that they felt safe and protected.” The Palace Group advocates promoting from within, including for executive directors, which contributes to a high level of employee retention. – JP Faber

From the Police and Fire Department Blotters

Coral Gables is an exceptionally safe place to live, but that doesn’t mean citizens – and its police and fire department – don’t face occasional challenges.

One of those occurred at the tail end of November, reinforcing the need to continue undergrounding power lines in the city. At about 5 am on the Friday morning before Thanksgiving, a power line on Ferdinand Street near Country Club Prado snapped and fell onto two parked cars, which burst into flames. Coral Gables Fire Rescue

AUTHOR JULIE SATOW (LEFT) WITH JUDY ZEDER

HELEN AND JACOB SAHAM OF THE PALACE GROUP

SCREENSHOT OF “JEOPARDY” CLUE

and crews from Florida Power & Light arrived at the scene, quickly shutting down the power grid to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent homes. More than 1,000 residents in the Gables went without power for much of the morning, but there were no injuries and the fire was contained.

In another recent incident, Gables police veteran Edwin Pagan III was charged with playing a supporting role as “bagman” in a conspiracy to bribe a DEA supervisor in Miami for access to confidential information about drug-trafficking suspects. The information was allegedly passed to a retired DEA agent, who then shared it with several Miami defense attorneys so they could recruit new clients. The charges stem from a time when officer Pagan – currently suspended without pay from his patrol officer’s job – worked as a special agent for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Pagan has plead not guilty.

On the other hand, kudos to the Smart City technology that the Coral Gables Police Department prides itself on. Police in New York recently arrested a Romanian man suspected of participating in a national fraud ring after he and another suspect installed a “skimmer” in an ATM at a Family Dollar store in upstate New York. The suspect, Laurentiu Urziceanu, was arrested based on facial recognition taken from video camera footage recorded in 2023 in Coral Gables, when he allegedly installed a similar skimming device at the ATM for Synovus Bank at 121 Alhambra Plaza. – JP Faber

The Mayor’s Ball

It felt like a scene out of “Crazy Rich Asians.” Towering flower arrangements marked the centerpiece of each table, blue lighting saturated the room, and chandeliers and candles lit up the faces of elegantly dressed guests, as bubbles floated through the air and ballet dancers floated through the crowd. This year’s third annual

Mayor’s Ball was something to be seen – and seen at. On-stage in the Loews Hotel’s ballroom, Mayor Vince Lago addressed the audience of political and business leaders with a summary of all the city has accomplished during his tenure as mayor over the last three years: record-breaking appropriations from the state, the relocations and

expansions of Fortune 500 companies in Coral Gables like Apple and Ryder System – and the hundreds of thousands of dollars raised for charity from the ball. Each year, proceeds from the Ball go to the Coral Gables Community Foundation, which uses them to fund scholarships for local high school students; and to La Liga Contra el Cancer, the League Against Cancer. This year more than $150,000 was raised.

“The holiday season… is a time to give back and be thankful for the past year. It is a privilege to be able to give back to causes that serve our community and help those in need,” said Lago, before going on to

detail causes close to his heart and the inspiration he takes from his father, a pro bono physician for La Liga. With speeches out of the way, all took to the dance floor for some much-needed “time off.” – Kylie Wang

Small Business Saturday

On the last Saturday of November, the United States celebrates Small Business Saturday, a marketing initiative created by American Express to encourage holiday shopping at small businesses. With a multinational company like Amex at its helm, it is impressive that a relatively small city like Coral Gables has made such a splash with the program.

“In year two, when we got involved, it was us, Detroit, New York City, and Washington D.C.,” says Mark A. Trowbridge, CEO and president of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, which partners with American Express on the event. “Every year, it’s

grown… and probably the coolest thing was that in year five, we were selected as one of [Amex’s] spotlight communities. We were given a small grant, and we actually filmed a commercial here with Books & Books.”

This year – the Gables’ 15th year – Small Business Saturday kicked off with an event at Joy By, the holiday pop-up store on Miracle Mile. Officials including Mayor Vince Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson were in attendance and joined the Chamber’s Architectural Walking Tour afterwards, which combined shopping with history. The tour popped into various small businesses on Miracle Mile and Aragon Avenue, including Veranda Plants & Gifts and Books & Books, where patrons could participate in a scavenger hunt before shopping from more local retailers. “It’s amazing to have been

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WHAT TO DO IN THE GABLES

“JERSEY BOYS”

“Jersey Boys” is a jukebox musical that follows Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons through the highs and lows of their journey to rock ‘n’ roll stardom. The musical steps into each band member’s perspective, giving a unique insight into their relationships and desires. The production is filled with classics, including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” “Jersey Boys” opens on January 22 and runs through February 23 at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre. From $40. 280 Miracle Mile. actorsplayhouse.org

“APPROPRIATE”

“Appropriate” is a dark musical following the dysfunctional Lafayette family as they battle over their late father’s inheritance. The drama unfolds in a decaying Arkansas plantation mansion where long-hidden secrets and buried resentments come to light as the family is forced to face the ghosts of their past. A Pulitzer Finalist and Obie Award winner, “Appropriate” opens on January 31 and runs through February 23 at GableStage. From $50. 1200 Anastasia Ave. gablestage.org

A FESTIVAL OF CHOCOLATE AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Indulge in all things chocolate with tastings, cooking demos, and chocolate-inspired activities at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s annual Festival of Chocolate. Attendees can look forward to vendors offering chocolate pairings, chocolate-themed drink tastings, and a

variety of chocolate-infused foods. Throughout the day, there will be sessions on cooking and tasting with cacao. Kids can even enjoy a ride on the Chocolate Express. The festival takes place on January 18 and 19. $11.95 for children and $24.95 for adults. 10901 Old Cutler Rd. fairchildgarden.org

MUSIC AT MCBRIDE PLAZA

Starting January 9, the McBride Plaza next to Barnes & Noble on Miracle Mile will feature free open-air concerts every other Thursday. UM’s Frost School of Music will present a different ensemble for each performance. On Jan. 9, see A.S.K, a jazz combo ensemble; on Jan. 23, watch the Frost Opera Theater, which performs works all the way from the Baroque era to the most progressive pieces of today. Performances run from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. 150 Miracle Mile. coralgables.com

CORAL GABLES FARMERS MARKET

The Coral Gables Farmers Market returns this month with locally sourced produce, gourmet meals, baked products, floristry, educational workshops, children’s activities, and more. Every Saturday outside City Hall until March 29, shop small and support local businesses. 405 Biltmore Way. coralgables.com

RENAISSANCE: THE CAPILLA FLAMENCA

Amanda Quist and the GRAMMY-nominated Seraphic Fire choral group will transport spectators back to the days of the Holy Roman Empire at this January 17 performance at the Church of the Little Flower. Revisit the era when Capilla Flamenca would dazzle the Roman emperor with angelic choral works. This stunning tribute will include “Regina caeli laetare,” “Ego flos campi,” and “Fresco y claro arroyuelo.” The show starts at 8 pm with tickets from $45. 2711 Indian Mound Tr. seraphicfire.org

BEAUX ARTS FESTIVAL OF ART

Founded in 1952, Beaux Arts is back this year for its 74th annual Festival of Art, featuring over 240 juried artists supported by a cast of all-volunteers. Free to attend, the festival will be open on January 18 and 19 from 10 am to 5 pm and feature multiple entertainment stages, two beer gardens, art available at all price ranges, food, activities for kids, and more. All funds go toward the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami, and arts access and education in Coral Gables. 1301 Stanford Dr. beauxartsmiami.org

“ONYX STORM” RELEASE PARTY

Madness, fantasy, and romance continue in “Onyx Storm,” the third installment of Rebecca Yarros’ critically acclaimed, viral Empyrean series which follows heroine Violet Sorrengail in the brutal world of dragon riding. The party will start at 10 pm on January 20 at Books & Books and continue until midnight when the book officially releases. Tickets are $33 and include a hardcover copy of “Onyx

Storm,” Empyrean trivia, a costume contest, and giveaways. 265 Aragon Ave. booksandbooks.com

AMERANT BANK 5K AT CORAL GABLES CITY HALL

Kick off your running (or walking) goals this year with the annual Amerant Bank 5K on January 26. Racers can register and pick up their packets from 6 to 7:15 am before the race starts at 7:30. Proceeds from the race will directly support the nonprofit United Way Miami. The race will start at City Hall and wind through Gables streets and surrounding areas. Register before January 13 for a $50 ticket; afterwards, tickets cost $55. 405 Biltmore Way. unitedwaymiami.org ■

Emmet Cohen brings his acclaimed Emmet’s Place experience to Frost Music Live on January 27, 2025. Known for his viral livestreams that blend breathtaking improvisation with unforgettable guest appearances, Cohen now takes the stage live alongside an all-star lineup. This is jazz at its finest – and Frost Dean (and accomplished pianist) Shelly Berg will take the stage as well! Tickets $50. Frost-music-llive. miami.edu ■

EMMET’S PLACE MIAMI LIVE 2025

A Night at Merrick Park

COCKTAILS, A MED/JAPANESE MIX, AND PLUSH MOVIE SEATS

BY KYLIE WANG

Considering the profusion of restaurants and activities on and around Miracle Mile, we rarely leave downtown Coral Gables for our nights out on the town. However, this time we looked to the Shops at Merrick Park, which has everything necessary for a night out: walkability, things to do, places to eat, and the advantage of free parking. To that latter, you might ask, “How do you manage that?” In the service of our readership, we’ll reveal our secret: park in the Merrick garage, head to the third floor of Nordstrom, and go to the order pickup kiosk. There, you will find two tablets where you can input your license plate and receive three hours of free parking. Huzzah!

After my date dragged me away from an insanely cute Free People sweater that he swore I didn’t need (I disagreed), our night really began downstairs at Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, where we grabbed a couple of drinks at the bar. We love the ambience here, which is sophisticated without being stuffy and lends itself to socializing. My date chose a gin and tonic, but, feeling more adventurous, I went with the Cucumber Blueberry Martini ($17), a signature Perry’s cocktail that was both refreshing and emboldening. Enough said. Having sufficiently libated ourselves, we walked a few steps over to Sawa, where we had a dinner reservation. We sat outside since the night was vaguely chilly and were treated to a show as well as dinner – on weekend nights from 8:30 to 10 pm, a belly dancer

LEFT: COCKTAILS AT PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE & GRILLE

TOP: ON WEEKEND NIGHTS FROM 8:30 TO 10 PM, A BELLY DANCER PERFORMS ON THE SAWA PATIO

ABOVE: CATCHING A LATE NIGHT MOVIE WITH DRINKS AT LANDMARK THEATRES

makes her way through the restaurant’s outdoor tables, fluidly dancing and flinging her silks to a percussive beat.

As we watched, we helped ourselves to a meal from Sawa’s inexplicably varied menu, a mix of Mediterranean and Japanese food with a few random dishes thrown in from other cuisines. Here, you can get fettuccine alfredo, sushi, and beef kefta, along with kebabs, steaks, and lo mein. We ordered tapas-style, sharing the pork belly yakitori ($17.49), fried kibbe ($14), vegetarian grape leaves ($14.49), and a filet mignon kebab ($36). We were surprised at the speed with which our dishes arrived – though everything was delicious, we suspect a microwave may have been involved for at least some of what we sampled.

We adored the pork belly yakitorki, which was extremely crispy, rather than fatty, yet still flavorful. The kebab, meanwhile, came with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping and was extremely fresh; though it’s one of the more expensive menu items, it’s easily shared between two people. We paired everything with a Greek lager called Alfa, which we had never seen before and loved.

Finally, we ended our night with a late-night showing at Landmark Theatre on the third floor of the mall. We bought our tickets to “Gladiator II” in advance, so we had a good view and access to the theater’s plush recliner seats. Before heading in, we stopped at the bar inside, which was surprisingly packed, and picked up one more round of drinks for the show. Though not incredibly impressed with the film (could have seen “Wicked”!), we thoroughly enjoyed our night at the mall, which made date night easy and fun. ■

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

Josie’s

New Stores

BY AMANDA MARTELL

Toska Facial Bar

Toska Facial Bar has garnered a loyal following, including celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, and Karlie Kloss, who swear by its result-driven facials. Known for its tailored treatments and meticulous attention to detail, Toska has quickly become a go-to destination for those seeking advanced skincare, from facials to eyebrow waxing and tinting, body treatments, and micro-puncturing (which we were too afraid to try). Instead, we visited to experience what Toska is best known for – its Red-Carpet Ready facial ($189), a treatment designed to refresh, hydrate, and enhance the skin for a special occasion.

The appointment began with a comprehensive skin analysis using the Skin Instant Lab, an innovative diagnostic tool by Biologique Recherche. Five specialized probes measure hydration, elasticity, and pigmentation levels, offering a detailed look at your skin’s condition.

The facial bar itself is incredibly relaxing, with heated chairs to help put you at ease. After a few cleansing ointments, we started something called diamond photoabrasion – basically a gentle exfoliation. Then came the Myo-light therapy, which uses micro-currents to tone and lift facial muscles, almost like a mini workout for your face. The session concluded with Biosonix ultrasound therapy, which infuses a hydrating serum to plump and moisturize the face.

I saw immediate results from my facial and two weeks later, my skin is still basking in its post-facial glow. It’s easy to see why everyone from A-list celebrities to skincare enthusiasts swear by Toska.

Bliss Beautique

Self-care comes in many forms, but few things compare to the confidence boost of freshly done nails. At Bliss Beautique Hair and Makeup Salon, a manicure is a carefully curated experience designed to leave you feeling polished and put together.

The salon has a clean, modern interior and features a wide range of services, from mani-pedis to professional makeup services, deep hair conditioning treatments, hair loss solutions, eyelash extensions and the basic offerings for any salon: highlights, extensions, cuts, dyes, keratin treatments, and perms.

I tried a reasonably priced gel manicure for $45, which included nail designs. My nail technician took the time to understand my vision, asking questions and offering her professional insights. We decided on a burgundy base with a chrome finish and a delicate design on the middle nails.

Each customer at Bliss is offered a coffee and a cookie to add to the experience, and I enjoyed mine as my nails were meticulously shaped and painted. Having left very pleased with my nails, I’ll be back for a more serious service next – though probably not a perm.

2255 PONCE DE LEON BLVD.

786.254.7844

BLISSBEAUTIQUE.COM

RIGHT: THE “RED-CARPET READY” FACIAL FOR THOSE SPECIAL OCCASIONS

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David Yurman

David Yurman has unveiled its newest boutique at The Shops at Merrick Park, enhancing the mall’s already impressive lineup of luxury retailers. Renowned for its iconic cable bracelets and contemporary jewelry designs, the store features an array of fine jewelry, men’s accessories, and sophisticated watches.

The boutique’s design showcases the brand’s attention to detail, with dark and light marble floors, sleek oak and marble displays, and soft fabric-paneled walls that give the space a clean, modern vibe. The minimalist design keeps the focus on the jewelry, creating a space that feels open and inviting without being distracting, embodying David Yurman’s signature understated elegance.

The collections cater to a range of tastes and budgets, with sterling silver bracelets starting at $350 and intricate diamond and gemstone pieces priced in the five-figure range. The men’s collection includes cufflinks, bracelets, and signet rings, alongside a selection of timepieces that blend classic and modern styles. For those seeking something extraordinary, the boutique also offers one-of-a-kind pieces.

358 SAN LORENZO AVE., SUITE 1508 DAVIDYURMAN.COM

DAVID YURMAN BOUTIQUE OFFERS JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES, INCLUDING RINGS, BRACELETS AND NECKLACES FOR LADIES, WITH CUFFLINKS, SIGNET RINGS AND MODERN TIMEPIECES FOR MEN

Have Vitamins, Will Travel

THE LATEST IV DRIP SERVICES IN THE GABLES COMES TO YOU

BY J.P. FABER

The IV drip was first “invented” by Baltimore physician John A. Myers, who infused his patients with what became known as a “Myers’ Cocktail” – a mix of water-soluble vitamins – in the ‘70s and early ‘80s. During the same time, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling began using a Vitamin C drip to combat a variety of illnesses, including the common cold and cancer.

Not surprisingly, neither of these therapies won mainstream acceptance by the medical community, which did not buy the argument that our bodies absorb very little of the vitamins we ingest, and that IVs bypass our digestive acids by going directly to the bloodstream.

Nonetheless, IV drips gained popularity when celebrities like Madonna and Rihanna began using them to overcome exhaustion during tours, and the mobile IV drip buses appeared in Las Vegas for overcoming hangovers.

I became a fan of “the drip” years ago. The first time I got one, I was amazed at how much energy it gave me, albeit for just a few days. And when I could not shake my lingering COVID symptoms, I had an infusion of Vitamin C and glutathione, which cured me overnight.

I was, therefore, happy to learn that IV drips are now available at home in the Gables on an appointment basis, delivered by Andrew Magarino, a former paramedic with experience administering transfusions in South Florida ERs. “I’ve really been doing IVs for 15 years, but I started working in the drip business during COVID,” says Magarino, who previously worked in trauma centers at hospitals in Miami (Jackson), Kendall, and Aventura, as well as with the Hialeah Fire Department, which he left after breaking his ankle. “And then COVID happened, and I got involved with this.”

Magarino worked for a national IV drip company from 2020 to 2023, running their Gables operations until they shuttered the office. “Then I started my own company, because I felt that this was what I was meant to do,” he says. His company, IDrip Therapy and Wellness, did pop-up treatments at local beauty spas and dentist offices, but then changed its focus to concierge services. “I go to executives’ offices, bachelor parties, or people’s houses because that is most convenient and comfortable,” says Magarino.

ANDREW MAGARINO, A FORMER PARAMEDIC AND FOUNDER OF IDRIP THERAPY AND WELLNESS, SHOWN ABOVE ADMINISTERING THE DRIP “ AT LOT OF PEOPLE ARE TRAUMATIZED FROM THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH NEEDLES...”

He offers a variety of drips: some for energy, some to overcome hangovers, some to improve your immune system, all with different combinations of vitamins and minerals that range in cost from $150 to $230. “Everyone calls me for different reasons,” says Magarino. “Especially now with cold fronts coming in, it’s a combination of people getting sick or wanting to avoid getting sick, so they do immune boosting and vitamin C. Also, when people go travelling, to prevent jet lag and to avoid getting sick abroad.”

I had Magarino come to our offices at the Biltmore Hotel, where I had an infusion along with a member of our staff. She wanted to boost her immune system; I simply wanted more energy. And while I did not get a huge immediate burst, for the next few days I found myself waking refreshed and energetic – as compared with my usual sluggishness getting up in the morning.

The other thing which makes Magarino’s service special is his years of administering IVs. “At lot of people are traumatized from their experience with needles,” he says. “If I don’t get the IV in the first try, then I will give you something free.” ■

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

New Places to Eat

See page 48

PLUS QUICK BITES: SMOOTHIES MONDAY NIGHT DEALS

FINE DINING REVIEW

LUNCH WITH TROWBRIDGE

DAVID MARTINEZ AND CHEF MICHELLE BERNSTEIN OF SRA. MARTINEZ, THE NEW SPANISH AND TAPAS-STYLE RESTAURANT.

Quick Bites

In Search of Smoothies

For anyone who loved milk shakes as a kid but found them bad news as a health-conscious adult, smoothies are the answer. Nothing like something good for you that tastes good too. Here are a few of our local favorites.

ERNIE’S ACAI

Ernie’s Acai is renowned for its delectable acai bowls, but their smoothie offerings are equally noteworthy. Among the diverse selections, the Mango Tango smoothie ($9) caught our eye. This vibrant blend combines acai, mango, strawberry, banana, collagen, and apple, delivering a refreshing, balanced drink with a creamy texture. Finished with an added protein boost for an extra dollar, it’s a drink that leaves you feeling fit. 4141 Laguna St. erniesacai.com

JOE & THE JUICE

The Unicorn Tears protein shake’s nature-defying purple color at first gave us pause. A sip revealed the pleasant surprise of a subtle, nutty holiday flavor with hints of banana and cinnamon that gave the drink a comforting feel. Date puree, plant-based milk, and ice thicken the shake while blue spirulina gives it color. With 24 grams of protein packed into this 16-ounce shake ($12.60), it’s a peaceful path to your fitness goals. 2801 Ponce de Leon Blvd. joejuice.com

SUN JUICE SMOOTHIE & JUICE BAR

Of the 46 distinct smoothie combos at Sun Juice, we chose the Strawberry Shore ($9.35-$13.15) for its ample ingredient list: apple juice, strawberries, banana, raspberry sherbert, nonfat frozen yogurt, ice – and 15 grams of protein for an extra $1.55. This smoothie had the consistency of a creamy shake with the sweet and tart contrast of its fruit bases. The raspberry sherbet dominated while the strawberries balanced it out for a fruity blend. 1405 Sunset Dr. 305.667.1555

SMOOTHIE KING

Smoothie King’s Gladiator Strawberry shake ($8.13) is a standout in their lineup of protein-packed options. It combines six grams of protein with a fresh strawberry base and a hint of banana for sweetness. It’s a healthier choice for those avoiding added sugars. For an extra protein boost or a switch from sugary smoothies to a lighter option, this is the pick. Plus, you can customize your blend. 2315 Ponce de Leon Blvd. smoothieking.com

BANANA BERRY

Our favorite family-owned stopover in the Gables, Banana Berry’s Bang Bang smoothie ($7.70) is uncomplicated and delicious, a classic combination of strawberry and banana blended with ice and a dollop of whey protein for an extra health-giving kick. Sweet and simple, we love this specific creation for a post-workout snack, which keeps our muscles growing and our stomachs happy. 305 Alcazar Ave. banana-berry.com ■

FROM THE TOP L TO R: ERNIE’S ACAI: MANGO TANGO SMOOTHIE

JOE & THE JUICE: UNICORN TEARS PROTEIN SHAKE

JUICE SMOOTHIE & JUICE BAR: STRAWBERRY SHORE

SMOOTHIE KING: GLADIATOR STRAWBERRY SHAKE

BANANA BERRY: BANG BANG SMOOTHIE

Monday Deals

Monday is, traditionally, the least profitable day for restaurants, which means that for those who consider dining out early in the week, there are rewards. To entice customers, some of our favorite restaurants run deals every Monday. Here are some of our favorites.

Salumeria 104

With a cold front settling over the Gables, we decided to step into Salumeria 104 on our Monday visit for a warm respite from the breezy weather. Salumeria has been on the mile for the better part of a decade, offering a rustic, Northern Italian, trattoria-style experience, where the stars of the show are the signature salumi dishes, which means thin-sliced cured meats – i.e. salami, prosciutto, and pancetta. You can sit inside amidst the hanging slabs of cured ham, either at wooden tables or at the long white-tile bar, or you can sit outside in a covered patio to watch the Miracle Mile parade of pedestrians. We chose inside.

Chef and co-owner Angelo Masarin is also something of a master when it comes to pasta, dishes he says he learned from his grandmother (of course!), such as his spinach gnocchi, black ink fettuccine, and spaghetti alla bottarga – the latter made with cherry tomatoes and shaved mullet roe. We decided to go more old-school traditional with his tagliatelle Bolognese, those long, flat, homemade noodles suffused with a classic Bolognese sauce. A nice, warm comfort dish for a slightly chilly Monday night. And, like all the Monday night pastas, just $12 (ordinarily the pastas range from $18 to $24). Paired with a nice glass of house red wine, we were warmed up and ready to face the bitter temperature in the 60s! – JP Faber

264

CRAFT

Pizza Mondays at CRAFT are both economical and delicious, with the restaurant serving up four different types of pizza for only $12 each (as opposed to the usual $16 or $17 prices). Lasting all day, pizza-lovers can feast on margherita, pepperoni, napolitana, or fugazzetta (onions, garlic olive oil, cheese) pies at the discounted rate. Though we like all four options, we usually go with a margherita or a pepperoni, which has something for everyone (and means that everyone is happy, which is a culinary feat in my household).

During a recent dinner at home, all four of us managed to survive off of only two pizzas, which we picked up from the restaurant and took home to inhale without judgement. Our favorite part is the inexplicably pink sauce that comes on the side, a concoction made with beets and mayo that makes even eating the plain crust a delight. Beyond that, the pizza is wonderful – well above average and affordable to boot. Made in CRAFT’s wood ovens, it’s crispy in all the right places, not too saucy, and packed with flavor. If you go for an early dinner during happy hour, you can get good deals on drinks as well, making the night a coupon clipper’s dream. And on Tuesdays, CRAFT has the same deal for burgers as well – so don’t judge us if you see us there twice a week. – Kylie Wang

THE WARM PATIO OF SALUMERIA 104 AND THEIR CLASSIC TAGLIATELLE BOLOGNESE

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

THE WELCOMING EVENING LIGHTS OF TAP 42 AND THEIR BIG SMASH BURGER

Tap 42

Monday nights at Tap 42 let you step into a bygone era where a hefty upscale burger costs a mere $12 and fries come for free with the purchase of a drink. Although the burger’s price implies a basic offering, the deal here is pretty high-quality. We tried the standard Big Smash burger and then went outside our comfort zone with The Drunken Goat, a burger made with lamb and other Mediterranean flavors.

The Big Smash Burger sports two patties, caramelized onions, pickle chips, and a fair bit of sauce, which brings out the flavor in otherwise basic patties. Though we enjoyed it, we think you may be better off spending your $12 on The Drunken Goat, which was a more unique concoction. Though lamb is an acquired taste, Tap 42 does it well, with a rich, slightly gamey patty. On top of that, whipped goat cheese and a sweet onion marmalade provide a sharp contrast of flavor. Some leaves of arugula top off the burger, giving it a nice texture.

To break up the burger, we indulged in Tap 42’s classic crispy fries on the side. These fries meet that rare balance of crispy and soft

that every potato lover wants, with a crunchy shell and a pillowy, moist interior. They have a buttery touch with a good bit of salt, making them some of our favorites in the Gables. – Patrick McCaslin

301 GIRALDA AVE.

786.391.1566

TAP42.COM

Terre del Sapore

Starting the week at Terre del Sapore is an easy choice for pasta lovers in the Gables. The Italian restaurant’s $12 Monday night special includes over a dozen pasta options, and the space offers both an outdoor area for these cool winter months and a cozy indoor space with warm lighting, wooden accents, and shelves lined with wine bottles (not to mention the glow of their wood-burning pizza oven).

We opted for the Penne Treviso, a dish that arrived with a rosyhued sauce coating each piece of pasta. Subtle notes of rosemary infused the sauce, giving it a warmth that balanced the rich, savory bites of prosciutto. The arugula, though slightly wilted from the heat, added a peppery edge that contrasted with the creaminess of the sauce, while a light dusting of parmesan provided a sharp, salty finish. The layers of flavor in each bite came together seamlessly with the herbaceous undertone, creamy sauce, and the meaty depth of the prosciutto offering a well-rounded experience.

With 11 more pasta choices left to explore, Terre del Sapore has certainly given us reason to come back. The variety ranges from classic Italian staples to inventive pairings, giving both traditionalists and adventurous eaters something to look forward to. – Amanda Martell ■

246 GIRALDA AVE.

786.870.5955

TERREDELSAPORE.COM

Photo:

Rodolfo Benitez

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New Places

Babette

Yet another Michelin-starred chef has come to the Gables; this time, it’s Chef Dani Chavez-Bello. An avid traveler, the three-starred chef was born in Caracas, grew up in Barcelona, and began his career in kitchens in Paris, London, and Germany (where he won Chef of the Year in Hamburg). Now, his latest creation, Babette, is at La Jolla, the event venue on the corner of Alcazar and Salzedo.

At dinner, the small space is dimly lit by warm pink lamps, and incredibly romantic, with an ambience that implies hushed tones and tinkling wine glasses. We started with what can only be described as a mini salad: endives with walnuts, crumbs of English Stilton blue cheese, and a sherry vinaigrette. We also shared some forager mushrooms with root vegetables, which were exactly as you’d expect: earthy and delicate. Our favorite was the beets tartare, so sweet it was almost tart, and topped with a healthy portion of shaved truffles.For a main, we loved the cavatelli pasta with lamb ragu. Marvelously well-seasoned and well-cooked portions of lamb took the ragu to a level of luxury we didn’t know “pasta with red sauce” could get to. Of course, we paired everything with a nice bottle of Artuke wine from Rioja, a buttery blend that brought out the flavors of our various dishes without overpowering them.

Though we kept this visit slightly more casual, we’ll be back for a longer dine – perhaps with a date we want to impress. – Kylie Wang

THE EXTERIOR OF BABETTE AT LA JOLLA

Miss Crispy Rice

Miss Crispy Rice has made its debut in Coral Gables, taking over the space formerly occupied by Caja Caliente and settling beside Kojin 2.0. Previously located in Wynwood, the move to Coral Gables offers the omakase restaurant more space and marks the first Coral Gables venture for the group, which also operates Papi Churro, Poke OG, Dumplings Mi Amor, Oise Ristorante, and Mr. Omakase, primarily based in Downtown Miami.

Miss Crispy Rice offers a more casual omakase experience, with several multi-course options to choose from. A seven-course lunch is priced at $35, while dinner options include an 11-course meal for $70, 14 courses for $87, and 16 courses for $127. For a more flexible dining experience, à la carte options are also available. The restaurant offers some creative twists, like using crispy fried rice in place of traditional nigiri rice. Dishes include hamachi with blood orange and red peppers, otoro with watermelon, dry-aged salmon with caviar and truffle, and a potato latke topped with apple sauce, crème fraîche, and caviar – a recipe from co-founder Andrew Mayer. It’s an innovative, unconventional, and fun approach to omakase that won’t break the bank.

A selection of sake and wine is offered, adding to the relaxed, date-night atmosphere. The playful Kill Bill-themed bathroom adds a quirky touch, but overall, Miss Crispy Rice provides a solid and casual omakase experience – ideal for those seeking something different in Coral Gables without the formality of a high-end omakase restaurant. – Katelin Stecz

TOP: HAMACHI WITH BLOOD ORANGE

BOTTOM: OTORO WITH WATERMELON

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

Tina in the Gables

We recommend you visit Tina in the Gables on a weekday. After only a couple of months, the small Latin diner is so popular it consistently has a line outside half an hour before opening on the weekends. The hype around Tina’s makes sense once you realize it comes from the same team behind Miami Slice, the wildly popular New York-style pizza place in Downtown Miami, and La Latina, the acclaimed Venezuelan arepera, across the tracks from Midtown.

Now in the Gables, they are working the same magic with a brunch and lunch-style diner, open from 9 am to 5 pm from Wednesday to Sunday. We opted for a late Thursday brunch.

At our waiter’s recommendation, we tried the maple-candied bacon ($7), tallow taters ($8), and Tina’s French toast ($18), then ordered the Tina Turner shot ($5) in the spirit of our New Year’s health goals. The shot, a combination of lemon and ginger, was incredibly sour, so we took it in one gulp, grimaced, and then indulged in the sweeter items.

The candied bacon was well-cooked, crispy on the outside, but the French toast was the star. Successive bites revealed a super airy brioche bread and a subtle orange zest, with specially mixed maple syrup to maximize the flavor.

We concluded with the taters, which are cooked in tallow to create that elusive contrast of crisp exterior and fluffy interior that all potato lovers strive for. While perhaps a little pricey, the meal was well worth it. – Patrick McCaslin

4700 S LE JEUNE RD. TINAINTHEGABLES.COM

TINA’S FRENCH TOAST BOTTOM: CRISPY POTATO TATERS

Façade Bakery

So many new bakeries and cafes have opened in downtown Coral Gables recently that at first we dismissed Façade as just another pastry shop. Taking over the space most recently occupied by Dr. Smood, Façade is far more than that, with an all-day breakfast menu, homemade bread, and yes, of course, pastries.

We tried the baguette first, quite affordable at $5 and incredibly tasty, along with a hunk of cinnamon roll easily three inches thick and fluffy as could be. But the real stars of the show were the breakfast entrees. The spicy onion toast ($17) was our favorite, a fresh take on the now overdone avocado toast. A slab of toasted sourdough bread forms the bed for this meal, which is topped with caramelized onions and a blanket of folded eggs, finished with chili oil and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. A completely original meal with a wonderful combination of flavors we never would’ve thought of ourselves, but that somehow managed to meld together for explosive flavor.

Meanwhile, the Dippy Soldiers ($14) were also a delight; slightly less filling yet presented adorably. Two cooked and cracked soft eggs sit in small canisters on the plate with a side of tarragon butter and sourdough toast. A sprinkling of Maldon sea salt finishes off this simple meal, a play on the classic eggs and toast breakfast with more elevated flavorings. We’ll be back to try more, and to enjoy the laidback atmosphere and excellent playlist. – Kylie Wang

271 GIRALDA AVE.

@FACADEMIAMI

TOP: SPICY ONION TOAST ON SOURDOUGH

BOTTOM: THICK AND SWEET CINNAMON ROLL

TOP:

MIKA

Chef Michael White has a whopping six Michelin stars and one James Beard Award – and now he’s taken his talents to the Gables. The internationally acclaimed chef, known mostly for Italian restaurants in New York, New Jersey, and Hong Kong, has set his latest creation in The Plaza Coral Gables. MIKA, which describes its menu as “coastal Riviera,” draws inspiration from the coasts of Italy and France with pastas, crudos, and crostinis. And White’s not phoning it in – he even took up residence in The Plaza to be close to his new brainchild.

The restaurant has 100 seats and over 8,000-square-feet, but manages to feel intimate, with dim romantic lighting, a private dining room, and a large bar/lounge area. Though it’s currently open only for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, we’re told a lunch menu will debut soon.

We tried the beef tartare crostini ($22) for our appetizer, which came on a grilled sourdough loaf cut in half and loaded with beef, chives, and black truffle for a luxurious twist. A meal in itself, we had to stop ourselves from devouring the full spread. Next, we sampled a few options from the crudos portion of the menu, which features several prime cuts of fish, from bream to bluefin tuna, all delightfully refreshing. Of course, we couldn’t end the night without tasting Chef White’s pastas, for which he is famous. We recommend the Gnocchi with San Marzano pomodoro sauce. And don’t skip dessert here – the chocolate mousse is to die for. – Kylie Wang

3007 PONCE DE LEON (THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES)

MIKACORALGABLES.COM

Sra. Martinez

It’s been a long time coming, but Chef Michelle Bernstein has finally arrived in Coral Gables. Sra. Martinez, the eagerly awaited Spanish and tapas-style restaurant, is a project years in the making – 12, if you count back to when the first iteration of the restaurant closed in the Design District. The hospitality powerhouse duo of Bernstein and husband David Martinez (she’s the señora, he’s the Martinez) spent years renovating the upscale Gables location, formerly the Open Stage Club.

The atmosphere alone makes this a contender for one of our favorite spots in the Gables, with high-backed booths that offer a sense of privacy even with a mostly open floor plan. Large lamps that look like mushrooms hang over each booth, providing soft warm lighting, and the tiniest details – like the latticework separating the main dining room from the bar – give the space a real sense of purpose.

Even better is Chef Bernstein’s menu, which includes tapasstyle appetizers as well as larger dishes. We adored the chicken liver pate ($26), served inexplicably with warm beignets dusted with powdered sugar and a strawberry marmalade. Surely a strange combination, and yet a bite combining all three flavors is marvelously complex and toothsome. The carbonara croquetas ($15) are similarly strange and yet so tasty you’ll find yourself thinking, “Why hasn’t anyone else done this?” And the oxtail paella ($48) with melting bone marrow begs to be shared over a glass of red wine and good conversation. We can’t wait to come back. – Kylie Wang 2325

TOP: SIX-STARRED CHEF MICHAEL WHITE

BOTTOM: PRIME CUT BLUE FIN TUNA CRUDO

TOP: SRA. MARTINEZ ON GALIANO STREET

BOTTOM: CHICKEN LIVER PATE WITH WARM BEIGNETS

Photo: Daniel Zuliani

Luxuriously Lavish Luca

INVENTIVE

ITALIAN FOOD, EXPLOSIVE FLAVORS

BY KYLIE WANG

We make Italian flavors with Hispanic intensity.” That’s how Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli – a half-Italian, half-Argentinian Miami native – describes Luca Osteria, his fine dining Italian restaurant on Giralda Plaza. And we can’t disagree.

Rapicavoli has become one of the biggest culinary stars in South Florida, with three restaurants in and around Coral Gables: Luca Osteria, Eating House (right next door on Giralda), and Mayfair Grill, which just opened in Coconut Grove in August. He’s been a semifinalist for several James Beard Awards, including Rising Star Chef in 2013 and Best Chef in the South in 2015 and 2016. He was one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in 2012. And, in 2011, he was featured on the Food Network’s “Chopped” as Miami’s first winner.

Almost every night (Tuesday through Sunday) you can find the chef making his rounds at Luca Osteria, a pandemic-era project that he says was “always something I wanted to do.” It’s been one of our favorite restaurants for years – even in the much-lauded and oversaturated Italian restaurant category in Coral Gables.

We started with one of our favorite appetizers, the patate fritte ($27). Here, Rapicavoi uses pommes noisettes, which are a French style of potatoes cut into small, round hazelnut shapes and coated in butter. They’re fried quickly and then tossed in a creamy parmigiano fonduta sauce with truffle; presented at the table, our waiter carefully drizzled egg yolk on top and mixed it in for added flavor.

Truffle is one of our favorite things, and Chef Giorgio, thankfully, agrees. “There’s nothing I dislike more than ordering a truffle supplement and it’s like three shavings,” he says disgustedly. “If you’re going to do it right, do a lot. That’s the beauty of luxury. These ingredients should be celebrated.” With that in mind, we doubled down and ordered the truffle pasta ($59) for a main as well. An off-menu item, it’s pricy but worth it, and comes heaped with a

TOP: AWARD-WINNING CHEF GIORGIO RAPICAVOLI

ABOVE: DINING OUTSIDE LUCA OSTERIA ON GIRALDA

TOP LEFT: LAMB SHANK FROM NIMAN RANCH FARMS

OPPOSITE PAGE:

TOP LEFT: ‘CACIO E PEPE’ CAESAR SALAD

TOP RIGHT: TRUFFLE PASTA WITH TRUFFLE SHAVINGS

BOTTOM LEFT: BUCATINI ALL’AMATRICIANA

BOTTOM RIGHT: PISTACHIO SEMIFREDDO DESSERT

mountain of black truffle shavings; so much so that we could barely see the creamy pasta beneath. Like everything else on Rapicavoli’s menu, it manages to be both sumptuous and delicate, almost palatial in scale yet exquisitely flavorful.

Aside from an attention to flavor and ingredients (some of which are sourced locally but many of which come from Italy), there is also inventiveness in multitudes here. Take the “Cacio e Pepe” Caesar ($19), a classic salad with a peppery twist. Here, Rapicavoli sprinkles a generous dose of black pepper over romaine lettuce to offer a simple but innovative take that isn’t quite spicy but certainly more brash than you’d expect.

This simple twist-of-the-knife creativity comes across throughout his entire menu, which takes traditional Italian dishes and elevates them with a burst of untraditional flavor. For instance, the bucatini all’amatriciana ($37) – a classic pasta made with tomatoes –is dosed with an unexpected and pleasant dollop of homemade chili oil and shavings of prosciutto. Again, not quite spicy or completely unfamiliar – just different. A typical Roman dish, all’amatriciana is usually made with guanciale, an Italian cured meat made from

pork cheek. Rapicavoli does it with prosciutto, the shank of the pig, because that muscle is used more and therefore has more flavor. And instead of regular tomatoes, he uses semi-dry tomatoes, which he says, “cuts through the fat of the prosciutto” with their added acidity.

But throw that out the window for one of Luca Osteria’s main event dishes. The lamb shank ($58), sourced from Niman Ranch Farms (a network of small independent U.S. family farmers) is perhaps the most traditional item on the menu. Served with a roasted butternut squash puree that Rapicavoli enhances with a sprinkling of nutmeg for autumnal flavor, it’s cooked in a red wine reduction and topped with fried rosemary and other crispy herbs. The sauce takes some of the sharpness out of the rosemary and the herbs give it textural complexity. “It’s very old-school,” the chef says.

Still, most of what Chef Giorgio does at Luca is just “what I like and what I’ve always wanted to do,” he says. “Sometimes Italian [flavoring] is just a little bit lighter and delicate. That’s not necessarily what we are. We like big flavor… I think about the way Latin food is seasoned. It’s kind of aggressively seasoned and very textural. We have that same approach, but we apply it to Italian cuisine.” ■

Emmy to the Nth

A VISIT TO THE LATEST ‘ZA PLACE IN TOWN

BY MARK TROWBRIDGE

Mark Trowbridge is the president and CEO of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, and an afficionado of fine dining in the City Beautiful.

This past August, Emmy Squared Pizza opened its doors at 230 Miracle Mile, abutting the paseo that leads to easy parking behind the restaurant in a city-owned garage. With 27 locations across the U.S., this is just the second location in Florida. The 64-seat eatery features both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for this time of year in the City Beautiful.

Positioned as a Brooklyn-based pizzeria, Emmy Squared is best known for its unique take on Detroit-style pizza. The focaccia dough undergoes a 48-hour proofing process, setting it apart from the traditional version that typically uses brick cheese. Instead, Emmy Squared opts for a mozzarella and ricotta blend. Nothing like my days as a teenage working at Little Caesars Pizza, but a fresh take on all things deep dish!

I joined a new trustee of our Chamber, Andrea Cobo of Seaview Investment Managers, for lunch and a get-to-knowyou. Andrea is originally from Ecuador but studied at UM and worked for big financial firms in NYC before returning to Miami to raise a family. She has two kids, one of whom is already an accomplished baker at 11-years-old.

We shared the Caesar salad to start, which was generously tossed in a divine dressing and crowned with two anchovies, oldschool style. Most restaurants no longer serve a Caesar as it was originally envisioned, as patrons fear the hairy fellows, so I was grateful to see the little guys adorning our salad. We also tried the meatball appetizer, which came with five large meatballs, lovingly smothered in a rich tomato sauce that had a nice zing to it.

I struggled to decide between a pizza or a burger, especially as I scoped out participants for Burgerliscious 2025 (on February 13, 5:30 pm, by the way). The Le Big Mat boasts that it is award-winning and is served on a soft and flavorful pretzel bun. It was heavenly, and even at a medium temperature, dripped some greasy goodness onto my plate (and shirt). Or maybe that was the heralded Sammy sauce, a secret ingredient with real heat that made me want to give it my digits for a meet-up later.

As for the pizza, there are many to choose from – including those with a red sauce base or vodka sauce. A signature feature of the meaty-set is the “Roni cup,” with a smaller, thicker pepperoni

“ AS FOR THE PIZZA, THERE ARE MANY TO CHOOSE FROM – INCLUDING THOSE WITH A RED SAUCE BASE OR VODKA SAUCE. A SIGNATURE FEATURE OF THE MEATY-SET IS THE “RONI CUP,” WITH A SMALLER, THICKER PEPPERONI SLICE THAT CURLS INTO AN EDIBLE LITTLE BOWL AS IT COOKS...”

slice that curls into an edible little bowl as it cooks, creating a crisp, blackened edge containing a deep pool of slippery goodness – a style long favored in the northern reaches of Buffalo and where I am from in the Ohio Midwest. There are also Emmy’s own unique takes on the Margarita, Supreme, and Big Hawaiian pizzas that make you want to return for dinner. In a word, delish.

To Andrea’s credit, she was able to keep the conversation flowing even while I fell in love with everything on my plate and may have made some light moaning sounds. Love at first bite was not far-off!

When you go, Emmy Squared Pizza is open seven-days a week, 11 am to 10 pm, and there are take-out and delivery options available, as well. ■

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People

FEATURING:

STEFAN MOLINA& SOFIA VASQUEZ, FOUNDERS OF THE MILLROOM

STEFAN MOLINA & SOFIA VASQUEZ

WILLIAM BAILINE

DON SLESNICK III

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

Stefan Molina and Sofia Vasquez are both Miami natives (he from Coral Gables, she from Doral) who met in New York City five years ago at the Culinary Institute of America. After stints at different East Coast restaurants and bakeries, the couple moved back to Coral Gables, where they recently launched their online bakery Millroom. Millroom’s claim to fame is the freshly milled flour Molina and Vasquez use to make their loaves of bread, which offers a range of benefits, including a more complex flavor, better texture, and more vitamins and fiber.

Vasquez, a baker from childhood, has worked at several bakeries and restaurants, including a spot in Martha’s Vineyard and Bolted Bread in North Carolina, where she discovered the benefits of freshly milled flour. Molina, who says he’s always held “a special place in [his] heart” for Coral Gables, has a degree in computer science from University of Texas but succumbed to his love for cooking and the city where he was raised. “We decided to come back because we were going to start the business, and if there’s a city where we want to show what we have, it’s going to be Coral Gables,” he says.

Stefan Molina & Sofia Vasquez

FOUNDERS, MILLROOM

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

“IT’S A VERY HUMBLE BEGINNING. IT’S A PRETTY SLOW PROCESS BUT WE THINK IT’S WORTH IT....”

Millroom officially launches this month, with a range of breads and pastries available for purchase. Vasquez hopes to soon add cakes to the bakery’s repertoire. As of now, Millroom has no brick-and-mortar store, but they can be found at various South Florida farmer’s markets, on Instagram (@millroommia), via the Little Local retail app, and on January 25 at the White Rose Coffee shop on Eighth Street, just west of Cortez Street.

WHAT THEY SAY

“It’s a very humble beginning,” says Molina of their small operation. “It’s a pretty slow process but we think it’s worth it.” Right now, the couple uses a KitchenAid attachment to mill flour, which means each loaf of bread is made one at a time. “We use a stone mill, so instead of removing all the parts of the wheat, it mills the whole thing and we have to sift some of it out,” explains Vasquez. “Then you’re left with the oils of the wheat in that flour, and for that reason, it can have a shorter shelf life, but it does yield a much better tasting bread.” – Kylie Wang ■

Photo:

Rodolfo

Benitez

Earlier this year, 15-year-old Ella Adler was killed in a boating accident when she was struck by a 42-foot boat while floating in the water off Key Biscayne. The incident rocked the community –including eighth grader William Bailine, whose family is close with the Adlers. Bailine, a Coral Gables native and an International Baccalaureate student at Gulliver Prep, decided to do something about it. For his eighth-grade capstone project, Bailine is working on a prototype safety vest for swimmers, and drafting recommendations for the state to create stricter boating regulations and impose larger fines for violators through camera-equipped buoys. He met with officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as well as Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson to discuss his work.

William Bailine

STUDENT, GULLIVER PREP

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

“...EVEN IF YOU SAVE ONE LIFE, IT’LL BE A SUCCESS.”

Bailine spoke at the December 10 Coral Gables City Commission meeting to highlight his project. He’s currently still creating his safety vest prototype, which will be made from products recommended by the Fish and Wildlife Commission and will include a SCUBA flag and a whistle to signal boaters to slow down. He’s also recommending increasing fines for speeding violations from $250 to $1,000 and putting cameras and sensors on buoys which will track boaters’ speeds and automatically send violators tickets.

WHAT HE SAYS

“In the future, I hope to bring [this project] to the state level,” says Bailine. “Being directly affected by the Ella Adler incident, I felt that it was my responsibility to create something that will ensure it won’t happen again. Those situations are very hard to wipe out completely, but even if you save one life, it’ll be a success.” – Kylie Wang ■

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

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After receiving a master’s degree in organizational management from St. Thomas University, Gables native Don Slesnick III began working in IT for law firm Colson Hicks. He then joined the board of the South Florida Digital Alliance, eventually becoming its executive director. He next started Deco Networks, his own IT management consulting company for small businesses and not-for-profits, which he ran for 20 years. He also joined the Jr. Orange Bowl Committee as a board member, eventually becoming president of the organization and later its executive director. About three years ago, when his mother Jeannett Slesnick became sick with cancer, he rediscovered his love of music, playing piano and guitar for her. Before she passed in August of 2023, she encouraged him to pursue a career in music, possibly as a teacher.

Don Slesnick III

TECH CONSULTANT, MUSICIAN, TEACHER

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

“IT GIVES ME DIVIDENDS TO SEE THE KIDS FLOURISH, AND TO SEE HOW MUSIC MAKES THEM FEEL” .

Slesnick has just finished his first year as the music instructor at Coral Gables Preparatory Academy on Ponce de Leon Boulevard, the school that he attended as a child when it was called Coral Gables Elementary (it has since expanded to kindergarten through 8th Grade). When his son Sebastian told him that the school had no music program, he served as a “permanent” sub for a year, running the program. He was made full time last year and has since brought back the school’s chorus and strings & violins music clubs. In December, he brought back the school’s first “Winter Frost” showcase since before the pandemic.

WHAT HE SAYS

“I was born and raised in Coral Gables and went to this school. It’s a humbling opportunity for me to teach in this building, and a way to give back,” says Slesnick. “I try to get [the students] interested until they get hooked, and then I can give them the inspiration to a path where music becomes very meaningful in their lives… it gives me dividends to see the kids flourish, and to see how music makes them feel.” Slesnick says he is also able to bring his tech background to bear. “We did a lesson last year on the Beatles’ new song [discovered from an old recording by John Lennon]. I walked the class through the technology they used to separate his voice from the piano and mix it with recordings from Ringo and Paul… I like to bring new ways to look at music.”– JP Faber ■

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

Art

and Volunteerism

THE SPIRIT OF BEAUX ARTS AND THE HISTORY OF CORAL GABLES ARE UNIQUELY INTERTWINED

BY KYLIE WANG

In 1952, if you went to the University of Miami on a spring day to visit the Clothesline Sale, you’d walk past the Lowe Art Gallery (now the Lowe Art Museum) and see artwork crowded along the green, strung up on clotheslines. There’d be mostly local artists’ works, juried by a panel of experts. All of the staff on-hand would be women, and

all volunteers. Proceeds would go to benefitting the Lowe and local art, but entrance to the event would cost you nothing.

Today, in 2025, there’s little difference between the first Clothesline Sale and what is now known as the Beaux Arts Festival. This year’s festival, held on January 18 and 19, is still free to attend and is also being held

outside the Lowe Art Museum, which is still the festival’s primary beneficiary. You’ll still see lots of local artwork – though now there are also national and international artists from Canada, Italy, and Mexico, among others. The staff are still all female volunteers, members of the Beaux Arts nonprofit, a 100 percent female-run organization which also hosts the annual Beaux Arts Ball and various children’s art programs. Perhaps the only real difference is that the art is no longer hung on clotheslines and the festival is now

held across two days, rather than just one. It also now draws upwards of 25,000 people and over 240 artists, giving out more than $20,000 in prizes. Over the course of the almost 75 years of its existence, the nonprofit has raised over $8 million for the Lowe, donations that have made it possible for the museum to have free admission and almost 19,000 objects that come from every inhabited continent over 5,000 years of civilization.

Back in the late ’50s, Shirley Pruitt, now 91, was part of one of Beaux Arts’ first membership groups, still working under founder Anne Atkinson, a Lowe employee. Pruitt describes the festival “as it probably is today,” only smaller. “It was the first type of [juried art festival in the state] and then they sort of spread all over Florida,” she says. “There would be artists from all over South Florida that would bring their artwork.” In those days, Pruitt was a general member, and she was responsible for a Pepsi-sponsored wagon and hot dog sales. Her son, then nine-yearsold (now the father of Ashley Andren, one of the organization’s co-presidents this year),

would run the food to customers.

Susie Rieder, who joined the nonprofit around 1976, says that at one point the organization would rent out art to people so they could have it in their homes for a few months. And she, too, remembers cooking food for their various events. Her daughter, Kaitlyn Reider, is now co-chair of this year’s festival.

Perhaps that is how the festival has stayed so consistent throughout its 74 years – many of its volunteers are legacy members brought in through friends or family.

“There’s such a wonderful depth of tradition in the group,” says the Lowe’s Chief Curator Dr. Jill Deupi, who also holds the endowed position of Beaux Arts director. “Over time, their core activities have a changed a little

“ THERE’S SUCH A WONDERFUL DEPTH OF TRADITION IN THE GROUP...”

but not a lot. I think what’s most important is that the spirit, the ethos of the event, has not changed. It’s about building community through arts and culture, using art as an opportunity to bring people together while also supporting living professional artists.”

For the City of Coral Gables, which is celebrating its centennial this year, Beaux Arts represents more than just a weekend art festival or even just a nonprofit. “It’s an opportunity for the city to bring in professional

CLOTHESLINE SALE ADVERTISING IN THE LATE 1950S

DR. JILL DEUPI (ABOVE), LOWE’S CHIEF CURATOR AND BEAUX ARTS DIRECTOR

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

artists from around the country, it’s free, it supports a major cultural institution… all of those things are a perfect mix for the city,” says Catherine Cathers, the City of Coral Gables’ arts and culture specialist and one of the festival’s jurors back in 2019. With the University of Miami also celebrating its centennial alongside the city, Cathers says the art festival is particularly important this year. “We just love that it’s here,” she says. “The city was founded with an artist [Denman Fink] as one of its leaders… so [art’s] been part of our cultural fabric from the beginning.”

Fink was among the city’s most important cultural leaders, one of the original

“ WE JUST LOVE THAT IT’S HERE... THE CITY WAS FOUNDED WITH AN ARTIST [DENMAN FINK] AS ONE OF ITS LEADERS… SO [ART’S] BEEN PART OF OUR CULTURAL FABRIC FROM THE BEGINNING.”

CATHERINE CATHERS (LEFT), CITY OF CORAL GABLES’ ARTS AND CULTURE SPECIALIST

I do think it’s important to know that from the start, there was this vision to include an art museum, which speaks to the importance of the arts in our community.”

founders of Coral Gables who served as art director for the Coral Gables Corporation and as a painting professor at the University of Miami. He’s credited with designing the Venetian Pool, City Hall, all the city’s entrances, and many other public spaces. He died in 1956, four years after Beaux Arts was created. When Cathers says art is important to our city, clearly, she’s right.

Dr. Deupi echoes this. “I understand that from the start, [city founder George] Merrick intended for there to be not just a university, but also an art museum,” she says. “But, of course, with the hurricane that delayed many things in the early 20th century, the museum project was paused. So,

Going hand-in-hand with that commitment to arts and culture is volunteerism, the spirit of which dates back to the 1925 founding of Coral Gables. The women of Beaux Arts are the latest in a long line of female volunteers who championed service in the Gables. Case in point: Althea Merrick, George Merrick’s mother, was the founder of the Coral Gables Garden Club, another female-run service organization. Today, Beaux Arts has grown from its original 50 members to almost 100, many of whom come from service-oriented families in the city and all of whom have different reasons for joining.

Festival co-chair Kaitlyn Reider, for instance, says she didn’t join the organization out of a love for art, but rather because the spirit of volunteerism was “a family thing.” Her mother-in-law, Susie Reider, was a member of the organization and encouraged her to join. “Personally, I like the back side of it. I like setting it all up and getting to know everybody. Just looking at it at the end of

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

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“ IT’S SUCH A PRIVILEGE TO BE PART OF AN ORGANIZATION THAT HAS IMPACTED SO MANY IN OUR COMMUNITY… ”

ASHLEY ANDREN , CO-PRESIDENT, BEAUX ARTS FESTIVAL

the day and being like, ‘I did that!’ That’s my favorite part,” she says.

Her fellow co-chair Amber Seidle-Lazo, a Gables native, has a similar story. “I remember coming to the festival when I was a kid,” she says. “My dad grew up down the street on Riviera and he remembers walking here to the show with his mom. It’s just full circle. Now, I bring my kids here. It’s something to say that multiple generations have come to love this place and keep coming back.” Seidle-Lazo is involved in several different nonprofits but, she says, Beaux Arts will forever “hold a special place” in her heart. “It’s just a great group of women and the things we do are amazing,” she says. “Everything we put on is 100 percent volunteer run.”

For others, like co-president Jordan Kever, who isn’t from Miami, volunteering with Beaux Arts was a way to get involved and “build a community.” She and her husband are art appreciators and collectors, so joining the organization was a no brainer. “It’s just a really incredible opportunity to not only support artists in their passion but to connect with others,” she says. Of the festival, she adds, “We do it all ourselves, boots on the ground. It’s an incredible community outreach program because it exposes people to the Lowe and all the wonderful work they have on display, but also connects our community with incredible artists.”

For co-president Ashley Andren, who also got involved at the behest of a family member, her favorite part is the organization’s children’s outreach programs and the general accessibility it provides to anyone interested in the arts. “I have young kids and they’re very into art, so it’s nice to show them all the different mediums and the talents of the artists,” she says. “Art is such an important thing for children.” Beyond that, she says, the art at the festival is accessible to all because of the wide range of prices. “There are price points that any buyer can reach,” she explains. “It can strike people’s

interest in art [for the first time].”

This year, the team hopes to do just that by drawing even more people than they have in the past through more activations and a wider range of artists and artworks. Having been forced to move the festival to the Watsco Center for the last three years due to construction at the university, the board is excited to bring the event back outside the Lowe, this time with two separate entertainment stages at each end of the festival. There will also be a live art installation from a chalk artist working on a piece over the weekend and two beer gardens. Attendees will see some familiar faces, artists who come back year after year, but also exciting new talent. And, of course, there will be

activities for children, including a beading workshop in the museum.

“It’s such a privilege to be part of an organization that has impacted so many in our community,” Andren says. “Standing on the shoulders of all these women.… Who would have imagined that almost 75 years later, we’re 100 women strong and still pursuing the same mission to support the Lowe Art Museum and art access in our community? It’s such an honor.” ■

BEAUX ARTS FESTIVAL OF ART JANUARY 18-19, 10 AM TO 5 PM 1301 STANFORD DR. BEAUXARTSMIAMI.ORG

LEFT TO RIGHT: CO-CHAIRS KAITLYN REIDER AND AMBER SEIDLE-LAZO AND CO-PRESIDENTS ASHLEY ANDREN AND JORDAN KEVER

Photo: Danni Matter

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THE ART OF HEALTHY AGING

Hint:

It’s all about staying in motion

BY AMANDA MARTELL AND KYLIE WANG PHOTOS BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

The concept of healthy aging is hardly new. Common sense says the more exercise you get for your brain and body, the healthier you’ll be as you reach your senior years. And yet, according to the National Institute of Health, only 25 percent of Americans between ages 65 and 74 and only 11 percent of those 85 and over exercise regularly. The Center for Disease Control, meanwhile, recommends at least 2.5 hours of moderate physical activity per week for adults 65 and up.

In Coral Gables, the largest segment of our population consists of seniors 65

years and older (almost 20 percent). So, as the New Year gets underway and everyone starts attempting to meet their new exercise goals, why not seniors too? From retirement community exercise programs to the Adult Activity Center’s range of movement-based classes to cycling clubs and dance groups, seniors all over the Gables are keeping fit by staying active. Here, we’ve profiled six exemplary Gableites – super agers, if you will – from ages 76 to 100 that amazed us with their dedication to fitness. We hope they inspire you, too.

RETIRED JUDGE THOMAS SNOOK RIDES WITH THE SOBS (SENIORS ON BIKES)

JUDE ALEXANDER

The Dancer

For Jude Alexander, the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center (AAC) is her gym. The 76-year-old spends most days there taking the classes it offers, including Pilates, line dancing, total body conditioning, Zumba, and barre. She’s also in a dance group with friends from the Center, which does holiday performances in various dance styles throughout the year. And she also golfs and walks regularly.

“I used to go to the gym at lunch when I worked at the University [of Miami],” says Alexander, “but I didn’t really like that. I like classes with people. I’m a social person, so I enjoy the company.” When Alexander was younger, she was in amateur dramatics in En-

“

I like classes with people. I’m a social person, so I enjoy the company...”

gland, where she was born. She found it harder to find opportunities to dance in groups until she joined the Adult Activity Center.

Dance is more than just exercise for your body, says Alexander, but also for your brain.

“It’s good mental exercise. You really have to pay attention and follow a pattern [you have to remember]. It’s not just for your muscles.”

Of her exercise routine, she says, “I like being busy. I’m not one for sitting around.

I exercise four days a week in the mornings and then a couple of afternoons with rehearsals.” She says she’s seen the effects, especially compared to her peers who don’t exercise much. “I know that I’m strong, I know that I’m healthy, and I know I’ve got a lot of energy. I don’t think I would have that if I didn’t do what I do.” She encourages her friends and anyone in the community to join the AAC, and “get off the sofa!” ■

DR. HAROLD SILBERMAN

The Ping-Pong Player

Born in Brooklyn, Dr. Harold Silberman discovered his passion for movement as the captain of his high school swim team. “Swimming taught me discipline,” he says. “It’s about consistency and pushing yourself to improve every day.” That mindset carried into adulthood with tennis victories in singles and doubles tournaments, as well as water skiing with his family. “I was an avid water skier, and all my kids became accomplished water skiers,” Silberman shares. “My youngest son even became a barefoot skier!”

Now 99-years-old and living at The Palace, Silberman maintains an active lifestyle. His mornings start with stretching and weight-lifting classes, followed by laps in the heated pool. “Swimming clears my mind and strengthens my body,” he says. “It’s the best way to start the day.” He also plays table

“

It’’s about consistency and pushing yourself to improve every day...”

tennis with an Olympic champion. “Even at 99, I like to win,” he jokes.

During World War II, Silberman served as a communications officer aboard the USS Arkansas, a role that required precision under pressure. “It taught me how to stay calm and focused – skills I’ve carried with me ever since.” He emphasizes the importance of nutrition, starting his day with fresh fruit and caffeine-free coffee, and often ending it with salmon topped with barbecue sauce. “It’s an unusual combo, but it works for me,” he says with a shrug.

To stay mentally sharp, Silberman also plays chess daily and edits The Residents’ Gazette at The Palace. Reflecting on his life, the soon-to-be centenarian says, “I didn’t waste any time in my life, and I still won’t.” His advice? “Stay active, stay curious, and find what brings you joy.” ■

Facelifts Less is More

If your goal with a facelift is to end up looking like yourself, only younger and refreshed, then ‘less is more’ is a good guideline. There are so many things being offered these days for facial rejuvenation, so you should be selective with your choices, both to remain a natural, non-plastic appearance, and to avoid unnecessary overspending. Just because it’s on the menu, doesn’t mean you need or should have it. What is most beneficial? Everyone ages uniquely but most will develop laxity and sagging in their neck and jowls, contributing to a tired, less than fresh appearance, and at some point, insufficiently improved by non-surgical cosmetic treatments. There are many confusing ‘descriptions’ for facelifts nowadays, so let’s simplify terminology: divide your face into an upper half (eyes and forehead) and lower half (cheeks/jowls and neck).

The ‘Lower Facelift’ targets the cheeks, jowls and neck and restores a clean jawline which is the principal sign of youth and beauty. It addresses both the deep (plane) and superficial layers of the face by tightening the deeper strength layer below and removing all slack skin above. The Lower Facelift, when expertly performed, is the one operation which produces the most, and natural looking, improvement in the majority of patients. Frequently, it is accompanied by an Upper Eyelid procedure (Blepharoplasty) to remove redundant skin arising around the same time as jowls and necks become a concern. The combo of the Lower Facelift and Upper Blepharoplasty effectively addresses the concerns of close to 90% of the patients I see.

Well selected patients might also benefit from a ‘Lateral Brow Lift’ to address sagging of the outer corner of the eyes, but many don’t need this since Botox may suffice here. Lifting the brows on a patient who doesn’t really need it only contributes to a surgical and surprised look. A full brow lift is very rarely indicated.

Lower eyelids are more sensitive than upper eyelids, and ‘Lower Blepharoplasty’ surgery thus riskier. Fortunately, many patients don’t need this surgery as it only really benefits those with obvious ‘bags’ below their eyes caused by protruding fat.

Fat grafting - is it worth it? It’s true that part of facial aging may include facial fat atrophy in some patients, though certainly not in all. But while it appears intuitively desirable, though overly simplistic, to just replace lost facial fat with fat from other areas, it just doesn’t pan out as hoped for, as much of the transferred fat ends up atrophying in unpredictable ways or potentially remain as unnatural areas of fullness or irregularity. Fat grafting is accompanied by increased swelling, bruising, longer surgery, and downtime, at least if seriously performed. In our era of abundant facial

filler options. which allow for considerable precision in volume enhancement after the facelift has healed, fat grafting has lost much of its initial appeal.

Lip lifts have been resurrected on social media. Few patients really are good candidates. Risks include potentially visible scarring under your nose and possibly a snarled (rabbit) look. Certainly not an essential addition for most patients. So why add risk and expense?

A word of caution on another social media marketed procedure - reduction of your neck salivary glands. These glands produce saliva and are tacked away under the lower jaw. Cutting away part of these normal glands to obtain a ‘better’ jawline requires a large incision below the chin, lengthens the surgery and increases the risk for complications such as bleeding, saliva leakage and prolonged, annoying necks swelling. It’s been called ‘radical neck lifting’ and excessive for a cosmetic procedure. I agree.

In summary, when considering any item on the aesthetic ‘menu’, always think about your risk/benefit ratio. Only procedures with high benefit and low risk are desirable. Also, the more procedures you do, the potentially less natural you’ll end up looking. Nobody can make you look twenty again, no matter how much you cut, pull, or fill and if you try too hard it might just look desperate. You probably have seen it. Good facial surgery just looks good, not surgical or obvious, making others wonder why you look good but not being able to tell you had something done. Also, you do not want to lose your unique natural beauty! So think ‘less is more’. As always, research carefully, choose wisely to end up safe, looking yourself, and not spending your money unwisely.

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

DONNA FALES

The Tennis Star

At 84 years old, Donna Fales has been playing tennis for a colossal 74 years. In the 1960s, she was a top 10 player in the U.S., with a long list of prolific teammates and opponents, including tennis great Billie Jean King. In ’62, Fales took home the U.S. clay court singles title and in ’66, she won the U.S. mixed doubles championship. Today, she’s still winning.

“I don’t think I could feel any better [than I do now],” says Fales, who attributes her excellent health to frequent exercise. “I think the most important thing to do is to keep moving and have a flexible spine. I do Pilates. I bike a little bit. I walk three miles three mornings a week. I usually play tennis three times a week,” she says, before admit-

I think the most important thing to do is to keep moving...” “

ting, “I do take a day off.” Fales is so fit that she plays tennis in the age category beneath hers just to stay challenged. “It’s just amazing to feel this good,” she says. In November, she represented Florida in a national team competition; her team won the championship.

Fales stresses the importance of a regular routine, especially for seniors. “It’s easy to overlook, but as we age, we need more maintenance,” she says. “You almost always have something that might be hurting, but you’re never going to get away from that.” For her, it’s arthritis in her hands, which makes swinging a tennis racket hard – but not impossible. “It hurts… but not enough to keep me from playing,” she says. “The only thing I can say is the more you move, the longer you live.” ■

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THOMAS SNOOK

The Cyclist

For retired judge Thomas Snook, 78, cycling is the key to staying active, healthy, and mentally sharp. Snook uses biking not just for transportation but to maintain a balance in life. “I take my blood pressure every morning, and the doctor says it’s low because I’m exercising,” he says with pride.

Snook has always prioritized an active lifestyle. Whether cycling to work during his career as chief trial judge of the Coast Guard or engaging in outdoor activities, he’s relied on movement to stay fit and energized. “I’ve always believed that staying active helps you feel your best, no matter what stage of life you’re in,” he says.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Snook decided to reignite his passion for biking. “I thought I’d go stir crazy,” he recalls.

“

I’ve always believed that staying active helps you feel your best...”

“So, I got back on my bike, waited until after rush hour, and started riding again. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.” Now, Snook rides twice a week with the SOBs (Seniors on Bikes – not whatever you’re thinking!), a group of retirees who stick to shady, tree-lined routes. “In Coral Gables, it’s about 10 degrees cooler under the trees,” Snook says. And, of course, the health benefits have been transformative. “I’ve lost 20 pounds cycling,” the retiree says. He also credits his Mediterranean-inspired diet for his overall wellbeing. “I’ve basically cut out red meat,” he says. “It’s made a big difference.” Proper hydration is another essential. “It’s the key to avoiding cramps,” he explains. Snook’s advice for anyone who wants to get started: “Don’t wait. Staying active now makes everything easier later.” ■

JANET EVANS

The Centenarian

Reaching 100 years is a milestone few achieve, and Janet Evans has done so with grace, resilience, and a deep connection to her community. As a resident of Belmont Village, she stays engaged in multiple ways – physically, mentally, and socially – while maintaining an optimistic outlook on life.

“I love my fitness classes,” Evans says. “The teacher is marvelous, and I’m glad I can do what I can.” While she no longer walks long distances or drives, she praises Belmont’s accessible amenities for keeping her active. She attends fitness classes there at least once a week, lifting weights and doing chair-based workouts. “I don’t have to go out, so I make the most of what’s here,” she adds.

Evans also prioritizes mental fitness. A self-proclaimed “word person,” she holds the title of resident Scrabble champion at Belmont.

IAccept your natural limitations, whatever they are.” “

“I’ve always loved words and writing,” she explains. “When I worked, I was in the word business – public relations and secretarial work.”

Evans’ approach to health is straightforward. “I try to eat carefully,” she says, avoiding “rich, gooey stuff” while enjoying balanced meals courtesy of the Belmont chefs. Beyond her focus on wellness, the centenarian makes sure to stay true to herself, keeping herself feeling good by looking good. “There are a lot of things I don’t do, but my lipstick is forever,” she says with a laugh.

When reflecting on her long life, Evans shares timeless advice: “Treat people the way you’d like to be treated. And accept your natural limitations, whatever they are. I’m grateful for what I can do.” Despite her accomplishments, Evans remains humble about her longevity. “It’s just dumb luck,” she says modestly. “All of a sudden, you’re 100.” ■

JOHN CUSTER

The Swimmer

John Custer has built a life centered around movement and resilience. At 72-years-old, the Coral Gables Grand Living resident stays active despite facing health challenges, including a stroke over a decade ago. “The stroke affected my balance and vision, but it didn’t stop me,” he says. “Swimming became my sanctuary. It’s something I enjoy, and it keeps me connected to myself and my health.”

Swimming is now his primary form of exercise. “I swim three to four times a week at the Grand Living pool, usually a mile without stopping,” he shares. “I like the feel of the water. It’s good for me physically, but also mentally – it’s a great stress reliever.”

Custer’s approach to eating is simple and practical. “I don’t follow any kind of strict diet,” he says. “When you’re cooking for

“

You have to listen to your body and make adjustments....”

one, it’s not exactly exciting, but I try to eat wisely. Last night, I had a spinach salad with eggs and tomatoes. It’s not about perfection – just about making good choices most of the time.”

Fitness has been a constant in Custer’s life since high school. “I ran cross-country and competed on the weightlifting team,” he recalls. “Those experiences taught me discipline, and I’ve carried that with me.” Over the years, he’s adapted his routine to suit his body’s needs. “When running became too hard on my knees, I transitioned to swimming,” he says. “You have to listen to your body and make adjustments.”

“The only thing I can say is to keep moving,” Custer advises. “Find something you enjoy, and don’t stop. Life is too short to sit still. Movement is living.” ■

IRON ARROW HONOR SOCIETY PLAQUE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI ENTRANCE, WITH THE WORDS “FOUNDED IN 1926, AS THE UNIVERSITY’S HIGHEST HONOR” INSCRIBED.

“HE

RECOGNIZED THE NOBILITY OF THE NATIVE PEOPLE. SO, HIS IDEA WAS [TO] PATTERN THE ORGANIZATION AFTER THE NATIVE PEOPLE, WHICH, DOWN HERE, ARE THE EVERGLADES SEMINOLE...”

JOHANN ALI, UNOFFICIAL IRON ARROW HISTORIAN, ON DR. BOWMAN FOSTER ASHE’S VISION FOR IRON ARROW

Inside the Iron Arrow

THE RISE AND [POSSIBLE] FALL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI’S ORIGINAL HONOR SOCIETY

BY PATRICK MCCASLIN

One month after the University of Miami opened in 1926, on a November afternoon, Dr. Bowman Foster Ashe approached UM’s first enrolled student, Francis Houghtaling, with his fledgling concept for an honor society. Houghtaling had recently proposed a fraternity with “an Indian ritual” to Ashe – the university’s first president – who had told Houghtaling to save the idea for a better purpose. Now, Ashe had that better purpose. He excitedly delivered his vision for the Iron Arrow honor society in the middle of Houghtaling’s physics lab, standing atop a lab stool. It would be a society for the school’s top scholars. Ashe asked Houghtaling to select the initial group of what would be a tapping society – where members are selected without applications – that would employ the traditions of Florida’s indigenous people.

Flash forward to 2022, when the UM Student Senate voted overwhelmingly (28-5 with seven abstentions) on a resolution asking the university to disaffiliate itself from Iron Arrow, the honor society that Ashe created.

In UM’s own words, Iron Arrow is “the highest honor attained” at the university, an organization comprising “those who excel in scholarship and leadership.” Its history is intertwined with the school’s, having been founded in the same disastrous year that UM endured the Great Miami Hurricane, later surviving several major campus evolutions, and all the while acting as an integral part of the university’s culture.

Photo: Rodolfo Benitez

SO, WHAT MOTIVATED THE STUDENT SENATE TO CALL FOR ITS DISSOLUTION?

At issue is Iron Arrow’s complex relationship with the Native American Miccosukee tribe (formerly of the Seminole tribe before their split in 1959). The honor society’s members wear handmade Miccosukee jackets, bang drums, and perform a wordless tapping ceremony where inductees are grabbed and led to the center of campus, later to be initiated in an Everglades tradition shrouded in secrecy. All of this is done with the blessing of current and past leaders of the Miccosukee.

As described by Iron Arrow, the leaders of the Miccosukee Tribe, and the University of Miami, Iron Arrow “acknowledges, praises, and practices the traditions and culture of the Miccosukee.” That line comes from a memorandum of understanding issued by the three parties in 2018 to reaffirm Iron Arrow’s relationship with the tribe.

Over the last decade, however, there has been a growing movement to end stereotypical characterizations of Native Americans, leading to the name change of the NFL team the Washington Redskins to the Washington Commanders, and removing references to the “Red Man” in everything from Peter Pan to Dr. Suess, for example.

As Krystle Young Bowers, a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and a University of Miami alum, sees it, “Indigenous peoples both on campus and throughout Florida are deeply wounded, alienated, offended, and angered by the practices of the Iron Arrow Society. The presence and actions of Iron Arrow affect not only life on campus but extend throughout Florida in everything the society does.”

That language comes directly from a petition Bowers circulated in 2022, which obtained over 1,000 signatures from students and members of the Miccosukee. The petition concludes, “If Iron Arrow exists to be a vessel for cultural exchange as it claims, it has failed at its purpose and should be dissolved. The society does not understand nor observe the Seminole-Miccosukee culture, sovereignty, or religion as shown through their wildly inaccurate rituals.” The petition calls on UM to issue a public apology, sever its ties with Iron Arrow, and rectify the damage done by the society.

Can these views be reconciled? Iron Arrow leaders see the society as a symbol of utmost respect for the Miccosukee and tribe leaders have repeatedly affirmed their relationship with Iron Arrow. But critics

A 1953 PHOTO OF UM PRESIDENT JAY PEARSON AND THE HONOR SOCIETY’S MEMBERS WEARING THE MICCOSUKEE JACKETS WHILE PERFORMING A TAPPING CEREMONY. BELOW:

KRYSTLE YOUNG BOWERS, A MEMBER OF THE SEMINOLE TRIBE OF FLORIDA AND A UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI ALUM, USES LANGUAGE THAT COMES FROM A PETITION CIRCULATED BY HER THAT CALLS FOR IRON ARROW TO BE DISSOLVED.

“INDIGENOUS PEOPLES BOTH ON CAMPUS AND THROUGHOUT FLORIDA ARE DEEPLY WOUNDED, ALIENATED, OFFENDED, AND ANGERED BY THE PRACTICES OF THE IRON ARROW SOCIETY...”

see the honor society as another example of culturally insensitive misappropriation and patronizing. “It makes you a caricature,” Bowers said in an interview with Coral Gables Magazine. “Outsiders really don’t even care to know our history or know us, but they’ll protect these mascots.” To understand the controversy first requires a lesson in history.

1926: IRON ARROW IS BORN ALONGSIDE AN INFANT UNIVERSITY AND CITY

In the fall of 1926, Dr. Bowman Foster Ashe opened the University of Miami as a labor of love. When the cataclysmic Great Miami Hurricane hit that September, delaying the university’s opening, Ashe relocated to an unfinished hotel (the Biltmore) using cardboard walls to partition the rooms. He lived full-time on-campus with his wife, sleeping in the dorms and eating with the students in the dining hall. When the university’s already immense debts worsened during the Great Depression, Ashe even borrowed upon his personal insurance policy to pay professors.

Embedded in Ashe’s passion for the University of Miami was his parallel desire to create an honor society like the elite institutions in the northeast, a tradition that UM could, too, wear like a crown. So, shortly after UM opened in that fateful year of 1926, when George Merrick’s dream of Coral Gables foundered on the hurricane-induced collapse of the Florida housing market, he pushed forward to create Iron Arrow, inspired by all the trappings of Florida’s Seminoles – their clothing, their musical instruments, their rituals, and their deep relationship with the Everglades.

“He recognized the nobility of the native people,” says Johann

Ali, unofficial Iron Arrow historian. “So, his idea was [to] pattern the organization after the native people, which, down here, are the Everglades Seminole. It would be a testimony to [them].”

Florida’s indigenous people settled the southern half of the state 8,000 years ago, living atop mounds of earth heaped above Florida’s waterline. They slowly split into distinct cultures that were collectively labeled centuries later by the colonizer’s name, “cimarrones” which was anglicized to “Seminole.” The indigenous people used the colonial Seminole name grudgingly in their dealings with Americans, but later adopted it at the onset of the Seminole Wars in the early 1800s as a symbol of common resistance against the hostile U.S. colonists. Through the Seminole Wars and the Indian Removal Act (which included the infamous Trail of Tears), the Americans tried to uproot all Seminole people from their land, but several bands that refused to surrender remained in the Florida Everglades.

Ashe turned to these people, the Florida Seminoles, to finish envisioning Iron Arrow. Tony Tommie, an English-speaking Seminole, rose to the task. Tommie had completed two years of public school in

A 1986 PHOTO OF UM PRESIDENT TAD FOOTE HAVING HIS FOREHEAD PAINTED BY “CHIEF” MARK CHESKIN. THE DAUBING OF FACE PAINT TO INDICATE NEW MEMBERS WOULD BE DISCONTINUED AFTER A VOTE IN 2018.

Fort Lauderdale and attended boarding school for another four years, contributing to his fluency in English and his comfort in engaging with the white American. While in Fort Lauderdale, Tommie became the spokesperson for the Fort Lauderdale Seminoles. The press misunderstood his role and labeled him “Chief” of the tribe.

Ashe, Houghtaling, and the other founding members of Iron Arrow collaborated with Tommie in creating the society’s traditions, under the impression that Tommie was a bona fide leader of the tribe. With Tommie, they created an initiation tradition for new members of Iron Arrow that endures to this day, albeit somewhat modified.

During initiation, inductees are grabbed by the arms and silently taken to “The Rock” at the center of campus. For much of Iron Arrow’s history, that process was accompanied by the continuous beating of a drum which reached a crescendo at the point of the inductee’s “presentation” to the Iron Arrow Chair. The ceremony is patterned after a Miccosukee rite of passage, which was “gifted” by Tommie at the society’s inception. It later concludes deep in the

ABOVE: A 1966 PHOTO OF UM PRESIDENT HENRY KING STANFORD RECEIVING A MICCOSUKEE JACKET AND FACE PAINT AT AN IRON ARROW TAPPING CEREMONY.

A 2014 PHOTO OF LATIN POP SUPERSTAR GLORIA ESTEFAN AT HER TAPPING CEREMONY - IT WAS 1985 WHEN IRON ARROW WOULD FINALLY ALLOW WOMEN TO JOIN THE SOCIETY.

“THEY [IRON ARROW MEMBERS] PRIDE THEMSELVES ON THEIR SOVEREIGNTY, AND THAT NOBODY WILL EVER TELL THEM WHAT THEY SHOULD AND SHOULDN’T BE DOING ...” SAYS JOHANN ALI ON THE VOTE TO LET WOMEN BE MEMBERS.

Everglades with a secretive ceremony that, according to Ali, “is a time for very deep reflection and listening.”

Other traditions Tommie initiated have since been altered through a continuous process of feedback and guidance from Miccosukee leadership. Shortly after granting these “gifts” to Iron Arrow, Tommie became a pariah of the Florida Seminoles. The Seminole Tribune writes that Tommie swore Seminole allegiance to the United States without consulting with the tribe and participated in an event with Miamians where he symbolically gave Seminole land away to his “white brothers.” The issue became so pressing that the tribe’s Medicine Man wrote a letter angrily denouncing Tommie as “a fakir and traitor to his tribesmen,” and accusing him of seeking only publicity and financial gain for himself.

“The origin story of Iron Arrow is what it is. I can’t go back and change that,” says Adrian Nuñez, faculty advisor for Iron Arrow. “What I can control is the relationship that we have with the Miccosukee today. [It’s] a complicated origin story, sure, but certainly doesn’t take away from the merits of the organization as it is today, what it’s done for the university, what it’s done for South Florida, and the partnership that we have with the tribe.”

Even as Tommie’s actions during the founding of Iron Arrow remain questionable, multiple Miccosukee leaders following Tommie have affirmed their relationship with it. “We asked them, ‘How do we go about this to make sure that we’re keeping with the things that we’ve committed to and promised to do?’” historian Ali says. “If the Miccosukee leadership came to us tomorrow and said, ‘No more,’ we’d be like, ‘Okay, no more.’”

Nuñez says that is the reason Iron Arrow has a tribal liaison, a member of the tribe who acts as a go-between for the leaders of the Miccosukee and Iron Arrow. “There’s not always a reasoning or a justification behind [any ritual]. Our deference and respect to the tribe is, ‘Please take a look at this,’ and when we have a response, we go with it. We’re not here to question, or opine, or rationalize it, but move forward and adapt as they see fit.”

1943-1985: TOUGH TIMES AND A TEMPORARY DIVORCE

Around the onset of World War II, Iron Arrow began to falter. The Depression and draft had hit the university hard, and administration even called into question whether UM would reopen in the fall of 1943. Yet the society persisted, spurred on by a 1944 editorial from The Miami Hurricane, UM’s student newspaper, titled, “We Need

Iron Arrow” and a resurgence in alumni support. In 1950, shortly before Ashe’s death, the University of Miami granted a charter to Iron Arrow, confirming it as the “highest honor attained” at UM. The society thrived from that point forward, steadily overcoming financial obstacles and embedding itself as an ongoing UM tradition.

In May of 1973, however, criticisms of Iron Arrow reached the federal government in the form of a complaint that Iron Arrow discriminated against “Indians” and “females.” The first issue was resolved five months later.

“We do not find evidence to support a claim that the Society’s use of Indian ritual and appurtenances is, per se, demeaning of either Seminole or Mikasuki [sp] Indians or Indians in general,” read a letter summarizing the investigation to Dr. Henry Stanford, then president of UM. “Our investigating has included an analysis of the society’s constitution and ritual, as well as contacts with Indian persons knowledgeable about Seminole and Mikasuki tribal customs and Iron Arrow itself.”

Iron Arrow’s steadfast refusal to admit women to its society was another matter. The honor society was in violation of the 1972 Title IX civil rights law which prohibited sex-based discrimination. The federal government forced the University of Miami to disassociate from Iron Arrow in 1976 until the society allowed women to join. Iron Arrow sued the federal government, but President Foote, inaugurated in 1981, refused to reallow Iron Arrow unless they permitted women to join, regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit.

After six previous attempts, Iron Arrow finally voted to allow women in 1985 at a special meeting. Ali, the unofficial Iron Arrow historian, explains that the group in charge of Iron Arrow at the time was defiant due to their close relationship with the Miccosukee. “They pride themselves on their sovereignty, and that nobody will ever tell them what they should and shouldn’t be doing,” Ali says. The old guard of Iron Arrow refused to allow women to enter, but the new guard prevailed, finally winning the vote.

THE CONTROVERSY ANEW

Krystle Young Bowers first became aware of Iron Arrow during her freshman year in 2009. As a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, she had never heard of the society and was initially confused by the sound of drums and people wearing tribal jackets. “I didn’t really expect it to be something the school was supporting and putting on with non-tribal members,” Young Bowers says. “Then I got closer

and saw it clearly wasn’t people from my tribe.” She learned later that part of the society’s requirements, at the time, included continuous banging on a hand drum. “That’s a weird cultural appropriation thing that I guess they think we do,” she says.

Several years later, Young Bowers returned to UM as a master’s student, coinciding with a time of increased scrutiny of Iron Arrow and its practices. In 2018, Iron Arrow hosted a community-wide discussion forum with members of the Miccosukee tribe. “What came out of that conversation were some of the things that we ended up changing. We went into a period of very deep reflection and revision,” Ali said. “Wherever we could not identify positively where something came from, if it did not stem from the Miccosukee, we either eliminated it or figured out how to modify it.”

For example, the practice of using face paint as a way of indicating new members was discontinued. “We couldn’t positively identify where it came from, and so we eliminated it,” Ali said. Also in that time, Iron Arrow made a shift from providing charity to the Miccosukee to focusing on other resources. “They don’t need the money. What they need is [awareness] and they need resources to help them accomplish their goals,” Ali says.

What that looks like in practice is a partnership with the Miccosukee Indian School to host tours on UM’s campus and to hold roundtable discussions with representatives from the Miccosukee Indian School, health professionals, and some of the people that work in the environmental resilience space. Later in 2018, the tribal liaison, UM President Julio Frenk, and Nuñez signed the memorandum of understanding that enshrined the Miccosukee’s endorsement of Iron Arrow. It concludes, “This joint declaration shall remain valid, in perpetuity, until otherwise decided by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida or the Iron Arrow Honor Society, severally.”

Despite the MOU, however Young and other members of the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes believe further change is necessary.

“After seeing the ‘tapping ceremony,’ I thought to myself, if this is what we signed off on – to have a relationship with UM – can we renegotiate?” asks Amarys Huggins, a Miccosukee member of the Bird Clan. “I am a lifelong University of Miami fan, so it is a bit upsetting to see what used to be my dream school allow a group to mock Indigenous people.”

In 2020, Iron Arrow announced that it would discontinue using the leadership titles of Chief, Son of Chief, and Medicine Man;

A 2018 PHOTO OF UM PRESIDENT JULIO FRENK AT THE SIGNING CEREMONY OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE MICCOSUKEE AND IRON ARROW WHICH CONCLUDED WITH: “THIS JOINT DECLARATION SHALL REMAIN VALID, IN PERPETUITY, UNTIL OTHERWISE DECIDED BY THE MICCOSUKEE TRIBE OF INDIANS OF FLORIDA OR THE IRON ARROW HONOR SOCIETY, SEVERALLY.”

discontinue the folding of arms; and limit the drumming to a few beats instead of the entire ceremony. However, due to the pandemic, Iron Arrow didn’t vote on the matter until 2022 – by which time opposition against its practices had swelled.

That was the year Young Bowers created her petition, accruing over 1,000 signatures. An Instagram post from an indigenous student denouncing Iron Arrow for harming native students circulated campus, receiving over 2,500 likes. Protesters at Iron Arrow’s 2022 tapping ceremony held up signs saying, “Big nope to racial trope” and “We are NOT your tradition.”

“My understanding is that the demonstrators are in support of Native American heritage … and I think that’s absolutely warranted and welcomed,” Nuñez says. At the same time, the Miccosukee tribe’s official position has been to not intervene with anything on-campus. That position is set by the General Council, a group of elected officials in the Miccosukee tribe. Nonetheless, members of the Miccosukee Tribe, the Seminole Tribe of Florida, and other UM students have repeatedly expressed their rejection of Iron Arrow.

“Although the General Council is made up of tribal members, not all views and beliefs are reflected in decisions made by [it]. Iron Arrow will always be mockery and not appreciation as long as they keep playing dress up [and] as long as they keep acting like they’re one of us,” Huggins says. “None of them have faced the hardships we have faced as Miccosukee people.”

In the end, the question remains: Is Iron Arrow cultural appropriation? The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s own standard for cultural appropriation is borrowed from Richard A. Rogers, an expert in communication at Northern Arizona University. It defines cultural appropriation as “the appropriation of elements of a subordinate culture without substantive reciprocity, permission, and/or compensation.”

Critics of Iron Arrow say that is precisely the case. “Wearing traditional jackets and learning about my people would be cultural appreciation. Once they start grabbing people, banging on hand drums, and stabbing arrows into the ground, it’s mockery,” says Huggins. Counters Nuñez: “I think there’s layers of context that will inform whether something is cultural appropriation or not,” he says. You need “context that provides intention, motivations, and that missing ‘why’ piece.”

The debate continues, but for now, the Iron Arrow honor society lives on. ■

The

Village Green

BY PATRICK ALEXANDER

The original plan for Coral Gables included two nine-hole golf courses and three 18-hole golf courses. In the end, two 18-hole courses were built for the Biltmore Hotel and only one nine-hole course was built for the public. The two Biltmore courses, the North Course and the South Course (separated by Blue Road) were designed by Donald Ross in 1924 and were officially opened with a 36hole tournament on January 2, 1926.

In a 1921 Miami Herald interview, landscape architect and master city planner Frank Button wrote: “The two golf courses … are bordered with native palms, pines, live oaks, wild figs, ferns and other tropical shrubbery that delight the nature lover and make ideal surroundings for golf… The ninehole course is well underway now and is 2,900 yards in length, with a 500-yard hole which will be a test for even the par golfer. The 18-hole course will have

three holes of over 500 yards, and the entire course will be 5,574 yards, with good fairways, grass greens, and traps and hazards of the most modern kind.”

Following the September hurricane and subsequent collapse of the local economy, the South Course fell into disuse and was abandoned between 1936 and 1944, when the Biltmore Hotel sold the land for $50,000 to the newly formed Riviera Country Club. The abandoned South Course was redesigned and became the Riviera Golf Course. In 1993, golf course architect Brian Silva designed an exhaustive restoration and brought the course back to its original 1924 design and layout.

The North Course remained part of the Biltmore Hotel and maintained its original Donald Ross design. The strikingly beautiful course incorporates canals and towering banyan trees with views of the splendid hotel from nearly every hole. Unlike

THE BILTMORE HOTEL GOLF COURSE IN 1926, THE YEAR OF ITS OPENING, AND OPPOSITE, THE OPULENT GOLF COURSE TODAY.

A Brief History of Golf Courses in Coral Gables

the Riviera, but like the Granada course, the Biltmore Golf Course is open to members of the public as well as to hotel guests.

In 1991, a third 18-hole golf course was opened as part of the Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club at the southern tip of Coral Gables. Like the Riviera course, the Deering Bay course is a private, members-only club.

THE VILLAGE GREEN

The Granada Golf Course is one of the city’s most unique and precious features. Designed by the “Golden Age” architecture team of William Langford and Theodore Moreau (who designed over 200 courses in their career), it was built in 1922 and first opened to the public on January 15, 1923, on what was once the Merrick family’s vegetable garden. Not only is it the oldest nine-hole golf course in Florida, it is also the best maintained, a veritable jewel. Owned by the city but operated by the Biltmore Hotel, the nine-hole, 36-par course is also part of the Coral Gables Golf and Country Club.

The Country Club was the city’s first public building and acted as Merrick’s on-site sales office – a satellite of his main sales office in Downtown Miami and a precursor to the Colonnade building, which was planned to eventually become his official sales office in the Gables. Consequently, much of the marketing activities and photographs of many of the early sales and social events all feature this Granada location. Unfortunately, much of the building was lost to a fire in 1983; although, after years of abandonment, it is now back in business.

Unlike most developers who would tuck a golf course away behind luxury homes, Merrick made it a central feature of his new city, positioning it proudly between two curving streets that displayed his finest and most extravagant mansions, so that everybody could enjoy its beauty.

The residences that overlook the golf course are some of the finest in the city and include representative designs by such pioneering architects as H. George Fink, Martin Hampton, Kiehnel and Elliott, Phineas Paist, Walter DeGarmo, and John and Coulter Skinner. A majority of the homes reflect the Mediterranean architectural character and many of the original residents played an influential role in the developing city.

Not only was the site of the Granada Golf Course originally the heart of the Merrick family homestead, but even after George began developing his new city, this

was the spot from which it grew. This is where Doc Dammers pitched his famous mule cart and conducted his legendary auctions; this is the spot from which George Merrick sold his dream.

The Biltmore is a beautiful and highly regarded public golf course and has been played by many professionals and celebrities from Babe Ruth to President Clinton and Tiger Woods. But in terms of its value and meaning to the city, nothing can compare to the Granada Golf Course. Bounded by North Greenway and South Greenway Drives, the Granada course sits in the very

THE COUNTRY CLUB ON THE GRANADA

COURSE WAS THE CITY’S FIRST PUBLIC BUILDING

ABOVE: THE COUNTRY CLUB TODAY, FOLLOWING A FULL RESTORATION AFTER A BAD FIRE IN 1983

heart of the city, less than a five-minute walk from City Hall and the downtown business district. Granada Golf Course is Coral Gables’ Village Green. Every morning before work and every evening after work, young mothers pushing baby strollers, bare-chested joggers, Lycra-clad cyclists, inline skaters, and elderly couples with dogs on a leash, all walk, jog, and circle the 2.3-mile stretch of

TOP:

GOLF

urban greenery. It’s where neighbors become friends and where friends meet up and exchange news.

For several decades, Burger Bob’s Diner on the Granada course was where all real Gables residents gathered to gossip and eat the “Best Chili in Town.” Sadly, following COVID and Bob’s subsequent retirement, the diner remained closed for two years until its recent grand re-opening under the name of The Birdie Bistro and the management of the much-loved Rita Tennyson and her beautiful family.

It is also a place where people play golf. From sunrise till sunset, seven days a week, even during the hot humid days of mid-summer, they are out there in pursuit of that elusive little white ball. Although there is a preponderance of retirees able to

play golf during the working day, Granada’s regulars represent a typical cross section of Gables’ residents, male and female, young and old, including many city employees. Unfortunately, young and old, residents and city employees alike are all exposed to sudden Florida downpours, with nowhere to shelter except beneath the trees, which is not a good idea in a thunderstorm. The beautiful 1940s rain shelters, complete with lightning rods, which once offered protection from the elements at each of the nine holes, were torn down a few years ago amidst vague talk of “modernizing.” The Historic Preservation Board, to say nothing of Granada’s neigh-

bors as well as rain-soaked golfers, have been demanding restoration of the original wooden shelters, but so far without success.

There is one group of elderly Cuban retirees who, following the end of their morning game, gather under a Banyan tree to savor fine wine and eat French cheese. When not grumbling about the missing rain shelters, exchanging news about their latest medical ailments, or embellishing their golf scores, they complain about los banditos, the Castro brothers, who stole all their cattle and horse ranches and expropriated all their haciendas and sugar plantations. They call themselves “the Titans of Granada.”

During the summer months, the course is alive with the excited shouts and voices of school children receiving golf lessons, and during the winter months, we hear obscure French obscenities as the “snowbirds” from Quebec slice their shots into the trees.

It is the trees that truly make Granada unique. While the whole course is encircled by some of the oldest and most splendid homes that Merrick’s team ever assembled, flanked by lush landscaping, swaying palm trees, and manicured lawns, it is the trees down the middle of the course itself that are so unforgettably magnificent. The first four holes of the course are dominated by giant Poincianas that glow with a fierce scarlet light when in bloom, but the back five holes are dominated by a line of giant Banyan trees which, over the decades, have grown together to form a living arboreal cathedral, the size of two city blocks, within which a sacred stillness reigns.

Not only is this the final home of the errant golf ball, it is also the home of Virginia’s red foxes, descendants of the ones that Merrick released as part of the Biltmore fox hunts in the 1920s. More importantly, this is also the home of the endangered Florida Bonneted Bat. Although its body is only three inches in length, its wingspan exceeds two feet. Sadly, Granada Golf Course is the only place on the planet, other than Zoo Miami, where these elusive creatures are known to still exist.

Granada is more than just a golf course; with its natural beauty, its forgiving greens, and delightfully charming and professional staff, it is more than the village green, more even than the heart of the city. Granada Golf Course represents the very soul of Coral Gables. ■

This story is excerpted from the newly published “Coral Gables: The First Hundred Years” by Patrick Alexander.

TOP: LIKE A VILLAGE GREEN, GRANADA GOLF COURSE LIES AT THE HEART OF THE CITY

ABOVE: THE AUTHOR PATRICK ALEXANDER, WALKING AMONG GRANADA’S BANYAN TREES

Co-Chairs

Lisa Mendelson and Lindsey Mendelson

Grand Entrances

FROM MAJESTIC TO DISCREET, DOORWAYS ALONG ALHAMBRA CIRCLE

CAPTURE THE STYLISTIC DIVERSITY OF THE CITY

BY BRUCE FITZGERALD AND KARELIA MARTINEZ CARBONELL.

PHOTOS BY VICKI CERDA

George Merrick’s attention to detail is said to have been both prodigious and persuasive. In planning the new South Florida community that he named Coral Gables in the early 1920s, Merrick took great care to avoid duplication of building designs – at the same time establishing overall guidelines to maintain the city’s “brand identity.” Details mattered in attracting visitors and especially residents to America’s 27th state, which joined the Union in 1845.

Practical considerations like wall colors, roof lines, ceiling heights, window openings, and points of entry got his attention. This was especially true for front doors, which consistently had pride of place in all his buildings. Often embellished with custom carvings or elaborate wrought-iron grillwork (the better to distinguish one building from another), front doors made a statement – about protection to be sure, but also about individuality and status. Even the color of a door sent a message.

Today, as the city opens its doors in celebration of its centennial, we can open our eyes to the skill with which early 20th-century architects and artisans chose to portray our built environment. Traditional or modern, then as now, a front door wasn’t just an opening. It was a beginning. ■

THROUGHOUT HISTORY, DOORS HAVE REPRESENTED A POWERFUL VISUAL SYMBOL, DEFINING SPACES AND DETERMINING WHO CROSSES THE THRESHOLD...AND WHO DOESN’T.

Mexico City Mélange

MEXICO’S CAPITAL IS A MESMERIZING MIX OF YESTERDAY AND TODAY

BY YOUSRA BENKIRANE / PHOTOS BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

The first thing you notice about Mexico City is its size – a sprawling maze of neighborhoods and towering skyscrapers home to 22.5 million citizens. But as I stepped onto my hotel balcony and took in the scene below, I understood what the locals tell you – the city is all about its neighborhoods; each its own world, distinct from other distant areas of the vast metropolis.

I was staying in the Roma district at La Casona Roma, a boutique hotel in the heart of the district. Its colonial-style architecture and lush courtyard felt like a serene escape from the city’s buzz, which played out below my balcony with bikers, skaters, and street vendors – and dog walkers juggling leashes for gangs of their furry charges. It turns out that Mexicans love their dogs – it’s estimated that half the country owns canine pets.

A relatively short four-hour flight from Miami, Mexico City offers a striking contrast to Miami’s coastal beaches and cruise ports, an intoxicating blend of old and new. My hotel was the case in point, blending antique furnishings with modern amenities. The hotel doubles as an art gallery, showcasing paintings and sculptures by local artists, reflecting another aspect of Mexico City – a reverence for art and its role in the country’s history and traditions, from Aztec carvings to the massive murals of Diego Rivera at The Palace of Fine Arts.

On my first day, I explored Roma. Known for its walkability, this upscale area invites leisurely strolls. Named after Rome, Italy,

TOP: SPRAWLING MEXICO CITY IS COMPRISED OF UNIQUE NEIGHBORHOODS

ABOVE: AN EVENING IN THE VIBRANT CONDESA NEIGHBORHOOD

OPPOSITE PAGE:

TOP LEFT: THE METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL DOMINATES THE ZÓCALO MAIN SQUARE IN THE HISTORIC CENTER.

MIDDLE LEFT: THE BUSY FILOMENO GRAN CANTINA AT LUNCHTIME

BOTTOM LEFT: LUCHA LIBRE PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING, A UNIQUELY MEXICAN EXPERIENCE FOR A FUN EVENING.

TOP RIGHT: MEXICO CITY’S BEST MOLE ENCHILADAS AT THE CELEBRATED AZUL RESTAURANT IN EL CENTRO.

BOTTOM RIGHT: TEOTIHUACÁN, THE ANCIENT CITY OF PYRAMIDS.

the neighborhood features streets and architecture reminiscent of that great city, earning it the nickname “Little Rome.” While eateries were everywhere, I confess that I first indulged at the hotel’s Aquiles restaurant for its traditional dishes, like rich mushroom quesadillas and the best guacamole I’ve ever tasted. Breakfast the next morning was served in the courtyard: fresh pastries, fruit, and strong Mexican coffee. The country’s pastries are a big part of its culinary heritage, from flaky conchas to crispy churros.

That morning I visited Zócalo, the main square in the city’s historic center, El Centro. It’s one of the largest plazas in the world, once the ceremonial center in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. Pigeons scattered as I walked toward the Metropolitan Cathedral, its centuries-old spires standing proudly against the bright blue sky. I eavesdropped on a tour guide who shared stories of conquistadors and indigenous craftsmen, pointing out intricate details of the altar, a blend of Gothic and Baroque styles that felt uniquely Mexican.

The sun warmed the square as I followed my nose to a nearby cantina for lunch. Filomeno Gran Cantina, located in a 100-year-old beautifully restored Porfirian building, was a delight. Here, I had my first sip of mezcal, bold and smoky, alongside steak tacos topped with fried cheese; it was clear why this spot was packed with people.

For a uniquely Mexican experience, that night I attended a Lucha Libre professional wrestling match. Beer in hand (with a

tajín-coated rim), I found myself shouting at the top of my lungs. The arena buzzed with energy as masked wrestlers flew across the ring, performing outlandish moves. While the fighting was staged, the fun was genuine.

The next day, I returned to El Centro for lunch at Azul, one of the world’s top restaurants. It consists of a large courtyard filled with cropped trees, from which hundreds of small candles hang. I was here for the mole, rumored to be the best in Mexico City. And it was: a velvety sauce aged for hundreds of days, its deep, complex flavors like a history lesson for the palate.

I spent the afternoon at peaceful Chapultepec Park, home to the Museo Nacional de Antropología. This is one of the world’s great museums, filled with everything from ancient Olmec heads to intricate Mayan hieroglyphs. It is also adjacent to the lovely Condesa neighborhood, which feels like turn-of-the-century Europe. I relocated here to the Andaz Mexico City Condesa, a sleek, modern hotel exuding contemporary luxury. The rooftop pool offered stunning views of the cityscape, perfect for a morning swim or sunset cocktails. The on-site restaurant served inventive takes on classic Mexican dishes, like duck carnitas tacos and mezcal-infused desserts.

The next day I ventured to Teotihuacán, the ancient city of pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun loomed large against the horizon, its steep steps beckoning the adventurous. Wandering down the Avenue of the Dead, I stopped at the Pyramid of the Moon to take in its grandeur and surrounding temples.

Back in the city, I finally dove into the legendary street food scene. Drawn to a stand bustling with locals, I tried the carne asada tacos – succulent, smoky steak kissed with hints of spice and crowned with sweet, juicy pineapple. It was a perfect ending to my adventure in a city full of history, culture, and flavor. ■

AroundMeandering Town #18

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

BY DON SLESNICK

What better way to ramble through the heart of our city center than to march down Miracle Mile in the annual Junior Orange Bowl Parade (our humble version of Macy’s and the Rose Bowl). Coral Gables has some great festivals, special events, and farmers’ markets – but the Junior Orange Bowl parade is our oldest continuously running celebration of the holiday season. This special event was first created and presented by the city in 1949 as the youth counterpart to the Orange Bowl Committee’s New Year’s Eve extravaganza in Downtown Miami. The Junior Orange Bowl Committee, now responsible for staging the parade, was not formed until 1959. During the ’60s and early ’70s, the December parade (billed as “the largest children’s festival in the U.S.”) was recorded for a nationwide broadcast during the morning hours of New Year’s Day. After losing its TV slot, the parade stagnated, becoming a minor holiday activity. However, through the dedicated efforts of Gables citizens and a boost of funding from Eastern Airlines, it reemerged by the mid-1980s as an end-of-year spectacular featuring up to 3,700 marchers, 17 floats,15 marching bands, and 60,000 spectators.

My family is proud to have had a long-standing association with this event. Some decades ago, I marched in the parade as a member of the Kinloch Park Junior High School Band and a couple of years later as a Miami Senior High Stingaree. Over the intervening years,

“ I LOVE A PARADE, THE TRAMPLING OF FEET

I LOVE EVERY BEAT I HEAR OF A DRUM.

I LOVE A PARADE, WHEN I HEAR A BAND, I JUST WANT TO STAND AND CHEER AS THEY COME.”

-COMPOSER HARRY RICHMAN

wife Jeannett, daughter Kathleen, son Don, and I have all served as Parade chairs and presidents of this outstanding organization.

Last month’s parade provided the several thousand onlookers with a bevy of floats which produced a fantasy of lights and sound, a police motorcycle drill team, stirring musical performances by some great school bands, costumed comic book characters, sportsteam mascots, and a phalanx of prancing horses. The climax of this movable holiday feast was the arrival of Santa Claus perched atop a large Coral Gables Fire Department ladder truck.

Despite being a Gables-centric volunteer production, the participating marching units feature many multi-ethnic youth groups (Scout troops, dance clubs, sports teams, etc.) from communities throughout Miami-Dade County, accompanied by a wide variety of young musicians representing schools from across South Florida.

A hearty “congratulations” to the Junior Orange Bowl President, attorney Michael Green, and parade chair and UM executive Iva Nichols. Let’s not forget to offer a sincere “thank you” to the City Commission for its continued funding support and the assistance of many city employees.

It goes without saying (but I will anyway) that my previous “meandering” was not nearly as much fun as marching in the Junior Orange Bowl Parade! ■

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.

53 Best Restaurants

THE DINING GUIDE

January 2025

Each month, we publish a select list of restaurants that we recommend for our readers. Since this is our annual Food Issue, we decided to run a more complete listing of what we consider to be the Top 100 restaurants in the Gables. If you think we have left some noteworthy place out, please let us know at editor@coralgablesmagazine.com

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

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

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

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

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

Benihana

There’s nowhere else in Coral Gables where you can see an onion volcano made at your table, and that kind of showmanship is why we can’t help but love Benihana. Great place for a kid’s birthday – or just to have some fun –with hibachi steak and teriyaki chicken. 242 Miracle Mile. 305.567.2000. $$-$$$

Canton

Why there are not more Chinese restaurants in the Gables remains a mystery, but Canton has been serving reliably good Cantonese-style food for decades. Feels like you are in New York’s Chinatown, with sweet and sour pork, chicken chop suey, barbecue spareribs, and wonton soup. Plus, good lunch deals. 2614 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.448.3736 $$

Ichimi

This off-Mile eatery has developed a cult following, with diners content to stand in line and stare just for the opportunity to eat Ichimi’s ramen and rice bowls. And the wait is worth it. Delicious, rich, and faraway flavors in dishes you can’t find just anywhere, in a raw, cool space. Pro tip: try the scallion pancake. 2330 Salzedo St. 305.960.7016 $-$$

KAO Sushi & Grill

Not sure of the vibe here – the décor inside feels oddly like you’re in Las Vegas – but the outside seating on the Mile is quite nice. Menu-wise, there are specialty rolls with an interesting Peruvian spin that includes a wide selection of ceviche, along with empanadas and chorizo. 127 Miracle Mile. 786.864.1212 $$

Khaosan Road

Formerly Bangkok, Bangkok, this Giralda Plaza mainstay – with plenty of outdoor tables – has reinvented itself as the new home for Thai street food. Think you know Thai food? Be prepared for new and delicious tastes, from curry street sausage to the best crispy duck. 157 Giralda Plaza. 305.444.2397 $$

Kojin 2.0

There must be something in the air at 804 Ponce de Leon, the spot which formerly hosted Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli’s Eating House and Chef Michael Bolen’s Lion & The Rambler. Today, the address belongs to Kojin 2.0, where you can find twice-cooked chicken, scallops with white bean sauce and pork, and a Japanese take on the traditional chicken sandwich. Tasting menus from $85-plus with constantly changing ingredients. 804 Ponce de Leon. 786.747.1404 $$$

Su Shin Izakaya

Located across the street from the Colonnade building, this tiny, bustling Japanese restaurant serves a great bento box – along with an impressive array of daily specials that are posted on the wall in chalk. Super popular lunch spot, for good reason – a much deeper take on Japanese food than just sushi and rolls. 159 Aragon Ave. 305.445.2584 $$

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 – and beverages made with shochu, the distilled Japanese spirit. 98 Miracle Mile. 206.696.0674 $$-$$$

Malakor Thai Isaan

This eatery on Miracle Mile prides itself on delivering true, tasty Thai food. That means pork skewers with sticky rice, grilled fatty pork neck sliced and tossed with lime juice, or the Gang Aom, a Thai curry with fish sauce, dill and herb paste. And they

can really spice it up. 90 Miracle Mile

786.558.4862 $$

Moon Thai & Japanese

Can’t decide between Japanese or Thai food? No problem. Here, you can have a Japanese house salad or miso soup as an appetizer and Pad Thai as an entrée. Truly the best of both worlds. Comfy booths inside and umbrella-covered outdoor tables. Across the street from UM. 1118 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.668.9890 $$

Namaste

Hidden on a side street off Ponce, the last standing Indian restaurant in the Gables is small and humble (“namaste” means “I bow to you”) yet superb in its rendering of classic Indian dishes, from tandoris to biryanis. Our favorite is the mango curry chicken, followed by the chef’s special black pepper shrimp. 221 Navarre Ave. 786.534.2161 $$

Osumi

Offering elevated Japanese-American fusion cuisine with a Latin flair, this cocktail and sushi bar pulls out all the stops to cater to Gableites, from its sophisticated low-light ambiance to its signature drinks by mixology masters from Café 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 cassava chips.110 Giralda Ave. 786.452.9902. $$$

Sakura Japanese

A vast menu for rolls, along with selections of noodles, yakitori, katsu, tempura, teriyaki, etc. But they serve some of the best sushi and sashimi in town, if raw fish is your thing. We also love their seating – a half dozen alcoves that line the walls and provide a sense of private space. 440 S Dixie Hwy. 305.665.7020 $$

Sawa

Delicious take on Japanese flavors served in parallel with Lebanese Mediterranean, Sawa offers seating inside or outside at the Shops at Merrick Park. A vast selection of sushi rolls and tapas that

range from chicken yakitori to octopus ceviche, along with super fresh Middle Eastern comfort food. Also has a doggy menu and late-night happy hour. 360 San Lorenzo Ave. (Shops at Merrick Park) 305.447.6555 $$$

SHINGO

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, consider the omakase menu at Coral Gables’ first Michelin-starred restaurant. Located in the historic La Palma building, the restaurant is the brainchild of now twice-starred Chef Shingo Akikuni, previously of Hidden in Wynwood. Every element of the restaurant is carefully curated, from the pristine 14-seat table to how each course is served. 112 Alhambra Circle. shingomiami.com. $$$$

Sushi Maki

Flagship of the Ng family food empire, Sushi Maki has some of the best sushi service anywhere, albeit in an unsophisticated space. No matter. Good prices, fresh fish and some over the top desserts to balance all that protein – like deep fried oreos. 2335 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.443.1884. $$

Zitz Sum

Brought to you by Chef Pablo Zitzmann of No Name Chinese fame, this “pop up” dinner restaurant off the huge lobby of the 396 Building is here to stay. The result of a year-long pandemic dive into dim sum by Zitzmann, the dumplings, hand-rolled daily, are superb. Other menu items are highly inventive and flavorful. 396 Alhambra Circle. 786.409.6920 $$-$$$

FRENCH

Bouchon Bistro

Michelin-starred Chef Thomas Keller is considered one of the top masters of French cuisine in the country, which he proves with aplomb at his latest venture into traditional French fare. With romantic 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

DINING GUIDE

Poulet Roti and the rainbow trout. 2101 Galiano St. 305.990.1360 $$$-$$$$

Chocolate Fashion

Known primarily for its baked goods – in particular anything made with chocolate, including the best chocolate cakes anywhere in the Gables – it also serves up good basic French fare, with a couple of cute tables streetside. Good coffee as well, and an excellent place to break croissant for breakfast. 248 Andalusia Ave. 305.461.3200 $$

Frenchie’s Diner

A little on the pricey side, but really good bistro style dishes served from a new blackboard selection daily. Among our favorites here is the roast chicken, the sauteed trout and the bucket of mussels served with French fries. Sacre bleu!

2618 Galiano St. 305.442.4554 $$-$$$

Pascal’s on Ponce

Chef Pascal Oudin has been at his craft for several decades, and no one does better with haute French cuisine. His food is the stuff of legend, done old school style in a way that would make Julia Child jealous. His chocolate souffles are beyond compare and the good news is that they are now open for lunch. Great place of a special date. 2611 Ponce de Leon

woodwork. Their specialty is, of course, crepes, but done as a roll, sort of like a French ice cream cone but with sweet or savory fillings. Our favorite: Brie cheese with apple and walnut. The dulce de leche pistachio isn’t bad either.

2423 Galiano St. 786.402.1732 $

Sweet Paris

The new home for that quintessentially French phenomenon: the crepe.

And they have all the varieties here, from the savory chicken, ham, turkey, and salmon – even a Philly cheesesteak – to the sweet dessert crepes such as Nutella, dulce de leche, and our favorite: lemon with whipped butter and a dusting of vanilla bean sugar. You can also get salads (goat cheese!) and paninis, all in a bright, open setting. 3005 Ponce de Leon Blvd. (The Plaza Coral Gables). 786.360-3519 $$

Tartine

Tartine in Coral Gables welcomes you with the same clean, modern ambiance as Gustave, the French restaurant it replaced. Rather than attempt to woo diners with a complex menu of haute French cuisine, as did Gustave, Tartine keeps it simpler, providing an inviting along with salads and sandwiches, in the

ITALIAN

With so many Italian restaurants in Coral Gables, it’s incredible how hard it is to find a good slice of pizza. But 450 Gradi’s pizzas are wonderfully inventive and deliciously layered, featuring ingredients like Italian buffalo cheese, basil pesto, pork cheek, and truffle cream. Under the direction of Chef Antonio, dishes like the branzino, veal, and salmon filet are equally full of panache. 130 Miracle Mile #101. 786.391.1276 $$$

Altagracia

Not only does it have refreshing modern décor, this Argentinian-Italian fusion restaurant brings a new and welcome twist to the Gables’ already plentiful pasta options. The stars here are the three creamy raviolis: a pumpkin and cheese ravioli drenched in truffle cream, a short rib ravioli, and the ricotta ravioli in a four-cheese sauce. 276 Alhambra Cir. 786.862.1636 $$-$$$

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, and the service is crisp and superb, with most of the staff having worked here for over a decade. The dinner menu is straightforward, with pasta dishes under $20 and entrees

under $30. And as many dessert listings (12) as pasta choices. 2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545 $$

Caffe Abbracci

A Gables icon, Nino Pernetti’s Italian restaurant is both a power lunch favorite for the business elite and a cozy evening gathering place for families and couples. Abbracci is quiet and elegant, and the food is so consistently good that Pernetti had to publish his own cookbook. Plus, unique sound dampers mean you can always be heard. 318 Aragon Ave. 305.441.0700 $$$

Caffe Vialetto

Not a huge menu, but when it comes to risotto, pappardelle, fettuccini, and ravioli, they do it right. And we love their Wednesday and Thursday “family” dinners for $100, with lots of great dishes, that serve four or five diners. Reservations required, always full. 4019 Le Jeune Rd. 305.446.5659 $$$

Fiola

Brought to you by Washington, D.C. Chef Fabio Trabocchi, this is fine dining at its finest. From the place settings to the artwork to the innovative cuisine, Fiola offers an exquisite dining experience. Among their must-try dishes are the porcini mushroom soup, sea scallops ceviche, and the signature lobster ravioli. Beautiful presentations. 1500 San Ignacio Ave. 305.912.2639 $$$$

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 homemade pasta. Excellent seafood. One of the most romantic restaurants in the Gables. 1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel) 305.913.3200 $$$

Fugato

They will tell you they serve “continental” fusion cuisine, and yes, there is a touch of French and Spanish cooking here. But the chicken Florentine, ravioli aragosta, ravioli zucca, golden calamari, and veal ossobuco say otherwise. Well-prepared dishes in an intimate setting make this a romantic choice. 325 Alcazar Ave. 786.420.2910 $$$-$$$$

Fratellino

Small, family-run, with a fanatically loyal fan base and 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 $$$

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.” Excellent cuisine. 2312 Ponce de Leon. 305.381.5604 $$$-$$$$

La Terrazza

The showstoppers here, at Fiola’s reinvented rooftop bar, are the fish and meat. The one-pound Margaret River New York Strip is an Australian Wagyu of exceptional flavor, rich and easily shared by a party of four. The fish is painted with an Adriatic blend of herbs in oil, like herb butter but less fatty, which lets the skin crisp to a sweet wafer that compliments the moist morsels of fish. Yum. 1500 San Ignacio Ave. 305.912.2639 $$$-$$$$

Luca Osteria

An Italian fine dining spot by local celebrity Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli (Eating House), Luca Osteria is a reservation-only hit for dinner on Giralda Plaza. Rapicavoli’s 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 the table 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 $$$

Salumeria 104

Trattoria-style Salumeria is now two years old, with a loyal clientele, especially at lunchtime. Partly, that is because the food and ambience is authentically Northern Italian and rustic. It may also be thanks to their inventive pastas, and sandwiches of artisan cured meats, always fresh and flavorful. Those sliced salumi meats are buono! 117 Miracle Mile. 305.640.5547 $$

Terre Del Sapore

Terre started out as primarily a pizza place, and their Neapolitan style pizza – cooked in a massive wood-burning over – won the Best Pizza in the Gables from Coral Gables Magazine. Now they have expanded to include a signature osso Bucco, along with an array of pasta dishes. Nice seating outside as well. 246 Giralda Ave. 786.870.5955 $$

The brainchild of Lucio Zanon and his son Sebastiano — who previously launched Portosole

— Tullio is Italian cuisine with a northern Venetian sensibility, a focus on seafood, and some very inventive pasta dishes. The fish is exceptionally fresh, the branzino flown in from the waters of Italy, the shrimp from the waters of Argentina, and the lobster from the waters of Maine. Winner of Coral Gables Best Fine Dining 2024 award, always a table-side show of impeccable hospitality. 2525 Ponce de Leon. 305.926.4208 $$$-$$$$

Located at the elegant St. Michel hotel, 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. Modern Italian design, sophisticated, with great service. Moving to the Regency Parc development in 2026, but for now still in the old hotel – and the hands down power lunch place in town. 162 Alcazar Ave. 786.580.3731 $$$-$$$$

LATIN AMERICAN

Aromas del Peru

Yes, they serve a dozen types of ceviche here. But it’s the breadth of the menu that impresses, with traditional soups, grilled meats, wok stir fries, and signature dishes such as aji de gallina (shredded chicken in yellow pepper

sauce) and seco de res (beef stewed in beer and cilantro, with vegetables). Good service, good prices, nice ambiance. 1930 Ponce de León Blvd. 305.476.5886 $$

Bistro Café

The popular Puerto Rican restaurant has opened a location in the Gables following its stellar success in Downtown Miami. Lucky for us, they brought their upscale breakfast, right by The Shops at Merrick Park. All-day breakfast is never a bad idea, especially when it’s this good. The expansive menu has a huge list of savory and sweet options, from innovative plates to upgraded classics. 4155 Laguna St. 305.530.8193 $$

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 tacos 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 $$

If you want to delve into the wide array of flavors that Peru has to offer, there is no better place than 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. This is the flagship of the local chain, and it show. 111 Palermo Ave. #108. 786.527.3939 $$-$$$

Divino Ceviche

Bringing a taste of Peru to Giralda Plaza, Divino Ceviche is known, as you might guess, for its ceviche. From the ceviche tradicional to the ceviche de mercado to the ceviche nikkei, there’s no shortage of the stuff. The restaurant also has Peruvian beers and notable non-ceviche dishes like octopus croquetas and a tasting of three different causas (layered potatoes with chiles, avocados, tuna, boiled eggs, onion). 160 Giralda Ave. 786.360.3775 $$

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 $$$

Graziano’s

This large, popular Gables mainstay is true Argentine. A deep selection of Argentine wines (which line several walls) go with beef slowly roasted over a quebracho wood fire, old schoolstyle. They have seafood and pasta, empanadas and salads, but come here for the meat – it’s a carnivore’s delight. 394 Giralda Ave. 305.774.3599 $$$

Havana Harry’s

This cavernous restaurant has been a mainstay for Cuban food in the Gables for years, with a huge following. The main attraction, beside traditional Cuban food, are the large servings. No one leave hungry. 4612 Lejeune Rd. 305.661.2622 $$

La Casita

This family run eatery is the true home of Cuban comfort food, with an ambiance and prices both straight from the 1950s. In a small shopping center on the north side of Calle Ocho, La Casita is a throwback to another era, with full meals still available for $13.95. And great café con leche to wash it down. 3805 SW 8th St. 305.448.8224 $$

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 is its nod to authentic Mexican flavors, albeit adapted for the American palate. 219 Miracle Mile. $$

Pisco y Nazca

Peruvian seems to be the taste of 2024, including the opening of ceviche gastrobar Pisco y Nazca. This prime location, formerly the Miller Ale House, 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 $$-$$$

The Royal Jewels

Last month, Tresor Collection held a Royal Heritage event hosted by Coral Gables Magazine, the first of its Artist Series, celebrating the work of proprietor Puja Bordia. Her family has been jewelers to the Royal Family of India’s Jaipur Kingdom of India since the early 19th century. The evening showcased Bordia’s work and was attended by family members who flew in from India. The event was held at the Tresor showroom at 301 Altara Avenue (at Le Jeune Road). A portion from all purchases was donated to the Coral Gables Community Foundation.

1. Dinah Marzullo, Heather Dennis, Amy Donner, Kim Lopez, Jeanne Panoff

2. Laura Horton, Heather Dennis

3. Mari Palacio, Angie Osorio, Antonia Osorio

4. Puja Bordia family

5. Sadia Raja, Jessica Cacahaldora, Mary Snow

6. Richard Roffman

7. Mari Palacio, Jennifer Rosado, Amy Donner

8.

Putting on a Ring

Sophistication and elegance are timeless at The Biltmore. Experience award-winning dining. Find sanctuary at our full-service European Spa & Salon. Tee off where legends have played on our Donald Ross-designed, championship golf course. Sit back and unwind at our iconic swimming pool with daybeds and private cabanas.

www.biltmorehotel.com

Where Am I?

This iconic ceiling in Coral Gables is easy enough to identify if you’re in the right spot – just go to one of our city’s most iconic buildings and look up! If you know where this sculpture is located, send the answer to kwang@coralgablesmagazine.com along with your home address. The first four winners will win two tickets to the Actors’ Playhouse or GableStage production of their choice and the next 10 will receive two tickets to the Coral Gables Museum. Last month’s “Where Am I?” was the bronze shoes replica sculpture at the Cocoplum Circle, AKA Cartagena Plaza. Cartagena, where the original sculpture by Tito Lambrano lies, is one of Coral Gables’ sister cities, and it gifted the replica sculpture to the City of Coral Gables in the mid-1980s. Thanks for playing!

One City. One Dealer. One Heart.

For over 70 years, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables has been more than just a dealership; we’ve been part of the heartbeat of our community. From the tree-lined streets of Miracle Mile to the timeless charm of the Biltmore, we've witnessed the growth of Coral Gables, and we’ve grown with it.

Generations of families have trusted us with their journeys—whether it’s the first car for a new graduate or a symbol of achievement for a lifetime of hard work. We’ve celebrated milestones with you, shared in your success, and taken pride in being part of your story.

At Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, our promise goes beyond delivering world-class vehicles. It’s about forging connections, building relationships, and upholding a legacy of excellence. Because, like Coral Gables, we believe in tradition and community.

Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables One City. One Dealer. One Heart.

Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables

300 Almeria Ave, Coral Gables

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