Coral Gables March 2023

CORAL GABLES

MARCH 2023

SPRING FORWARD

Fashion Focus This Season

Annual Tour of Kitchens

The Lapidus Legacy

Summer Camp Guide

Scan here.

One look and you know it’s The Palace.

You’ll be surprised!

Dance Studio Expands

It all started back in 1925. George Merrick was busy planning the City Beautiful, and Arthur Murray was creating a method of teaching dance that would turn into a multimillion-dollar global franchise. Today Arthur Murray has 300 locations in 25 countries; total revenues reached $190 million last year. Coral Gables is home to one of the original studios designed by Arthur Muray himself. It sits on the second floor at 2916 Ponce de Leon, and has overlooked Ponce Circle since 1946.

Much of the credit for the dance company’s recent expansion – and for putting the U.S. on the global dance map – goes to John Kimmins, president of Arthur Murray International since 2007. “[Kimmins] gave a lot of people the opportunity to come to the U.S. to train, and because of those people, America is now a leading country in dance,” says Rudy Homm, franchisee of the Miami studio (based in the suburb of Coral Gables), one of the last opened by Murray himself before he passed away in 1991.

Indeed, the dance company has always pushed to transcend borders, even back in the 1950s when Arthur Murray regularly taught and broadcast in Cuba. And while the U.S. has made its own contributions to modern dance, introducing such styles as swing, tap, and the square dance, at Arthur Murray it’s always been important to grant opportunities to dancers from around the world. Often, individual studios will sponsor experienced dance instructors to come to the U.S., providing accommodations for the first six months after their arrival.

Another reason for the global conglomerate’s lasting success is a tradition of entrepreneurial endeavors in advertising and franchising passed down from Arthur Murray. “That man was a great innovator,” says president Kimmins, beginning with Murray’s 1920s mail-order business headlined, “Learn to Dance at Home,” which used a toy moving-picture device to teach customers. He then came up with the idea of the “footprints” style of teaching dance, now an Arthur Murray trademark, using footprint diagrams to show students exactly where and how to place their feet. In 1923, Murray placed an ad entitled “How I Became Popular Overnight” in a national magazine and received 37,000 replies.

That same spirit of inventiveness also applies to the dancing itself.. “We’ve always had a tradition of innovation,” says Kimmins, who is a world-renowned dancer himself. “If we see something new happening dance-wise, we jump on it and get it out to our studios.” The Miami headquarters provides the new content for the studios, which then train their instructors, creating a consistent global product.

Each studio is owned and operated by a franchisee, many from different backgrounds, who must have extensive experience as dancers and knowledge of the business to be granted their own location. Coral Gables studio co-owner Katia Kanefskaya

Coral Gables based Arthur Murray International continues to expand its global franchise model

...Miami is a cultural crossroads for everybody, and they all find a common interest in dancing...

Chairman Phil Masters

and Homm, her dance and business partner, are among the top dancers in the world. Kimmins speaks proudly of one resilient Ukrainian dancer has been able to keep her studio open in Kyiv despite the ongoing war, alongside her studio in Warsaw, Poland. Kimmins keeps tabs on all the studios through a weekly performance report that details the studios’ progress – what he calls his personal Bible.

Students sign up for lessons for different reasons. Couples come in to learn ballroom dancing for their wedding, or because they are looking for an alternative method of exercising. One patron was determined to learn the cha cha for a competition on his upcoming singles cruise. All of them were able to learn at Arthur Murray.

“Miami is a cultural crossroads for everybody, and they all find a common interest in dancing,” Masters says. Coral Gables based, Arthur Murray International is hoping to expand even more in South America, specifically to Brazil and Argentina. “I would like to see our studios grow from having three in South America to 20 in the next two years,” says Kimmins. Plans are also afoot (no pun intended) for expansion into China, and for opening six studios in Russia post-war. “That might just be me being overly optimistic though,” he says.

WHEN YOU VOLUNTEER FOR SOMETHING YOU LOVE – AND KNOW THAT THE MUSIC WE PRODUCE IS WORLD-CLASS IN EVERY WAY – IT IS EASY TO RAISE YOUR HAND AND OFFER TO SERVE IN AN EVEN HIGHER CAPACITY.

CORAL GABLES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT AND CEO MARK TROWBRIDGE ON SERAPHIC FIRE. GO TO LIVING, PAGE 36.

SPRING FORWARD

Spring is in the air! It’s time to kick off those leather pants, throw that shearling jacket aside, and embrace the bright and breezy trends of the new season. From lightweight luxury fabrics to bold gem tones, Spring 2023 is the sartorial refresh we’ve been waiting for.

THE TOUR OF KITCHENS

The Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Tour of Kitchens, now in its 14th year, has become a Gables’ signature lifestyle experience. This year’s February tour was kicked off by celebrity chef Donatella Arpaia, the new culinary force behind NOMA Beach at Redfish, and included visits to 10 homes in the Gables.

THE LAPIDUS LEGACY

How the post-modern work of MiMo architect Morris Lapidus – known for the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc on Miami Beach – made its mark in Coral Gables. Believe it or not, this Beaux Arts-trained architect, who shocked critics with his over-the-top, opulent style, designed four buildings in the reserved and tasteful City Beautiful.

Generosity cares for those who do the caring.

Why It Matters:

Bethesda Hospital NICU

2,138

Newborns received care since 2017

The nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Baptist Health Bethesda Hospital Eastlike Sylvain Giroux, R.N., Bethesda Hospital Nurse of the Year 2022 - are committed to providing extraordinary, compassionate care to infants born prematurely or with critical health issues.

Thanks to Baptist Health Foundation’s donors, these dedicated nurses get the support they need to do their lifesaving work. Nearly $2 million in philanthropic gifts have funded a range of NICU projects, from a comprehensive renovation of the department to state-of-the-art equipment like Giraffe Omnibed incubators, monitoring systems, cooling blankets and more.

Our nurses go above and beyond to give NICU newborns a healthy start. Our donors make sure that the resources they get are as exceptional as the care they give.

Capehart Photography

A Question of Style

Fashion, and the contemplation of fashion, is not for everybody. As Gertrude Stein once said, you should spend your money on art, not clothes. She, of course, dressed like someone that just climbed out of a steamer trunk.

In the famous scene in “The Devil Wears Prada,” where Stanley Tucci dresses down (pun intended) Anne Hathaway for her ignorance about the importance of fashion, he honors great designers like Roy Halston, Karl Lagerfeld, and Oscar de la Renta by saying, “What they did, what they created, was greater than art, because you live your life in it.”

Here in the Gables there is plenty of fine fashion to go around. We are home to several top couture designers, including Silvia Tcherassi, Maritza Fernandez, Mayda Cisneros, and Victoria Lopez Castro. The Shops at Merrick Park is home to numerous high-end fashion brands, including Hugo Boss, Carolina Herrera, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Lilly Pulitzer, and Louis Vuitton. Miracle Mile, meanwhile, continues to house multiple design stores for brides, something the Mile was famous for in years past. It’s also home to men’s master tailor Pepe Bertini.

In this issue we try to offer a little bit from

all the above. For wedding dress designs we take a look at Ella Bella on the Mile. Also on the Mile we look at a new store for menswear designs by Miguel Wilson. In our fashion shoot we reflect a balance – male and female fashions from ViX Paula Hermann and 120% Lino at the Shops at Merrick Park, and the latest creation from local design diva Mayda Cisneros. We also used volunteer “models” from the community: Alina Meledina of AGK Realty, Diego Polenghi of PNC Bank, and realtor Ashley Cusack. All of this begs the question as to whether there is such a thing as a “Gables” style. If you were to put up a visual mood board to reflect the city’s fashion palette, the word “elegant” would of course apply, as would words like “sophisticated” and “classic” and maybe even “graceful.” That would certainly work for the doyens of high society who populate the city’s charity balls each season. What we’re not so sure about are the newer residents of our city, who in the past decade have lowered the median resident age from the mid 50s to the mid 40s. For that you’ll have to keep your eyes open – or wait for our next report here on street fashions. In the meantime, wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.

CEO & PUBLISHER

Richard Roffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

J.P. Faber

EVP / PUBLISHER

Gail Scott

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amy Donner

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Monica Del Carpio-Raucci

VP SALES

Sherry Adams

MANAGING EDITOR

Kylie Wang

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Gabrielle Lord

EDITORIAL INTERN

Isabella Cascio

ART DIRECTOR

Jon Braeley

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Grace Carricarte

SENIOR WRITERS

Doreen Hemlock

Mike Clary

WRITERS

Gina Guilford

Harriet Mays Powell

Wyatt Kopelman

PROOFREADER

Lesley Fonger

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodolfo Benitez

Tiege Dolly

Luca Mencarini

Lola Green

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Toni Kirkland

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

CircIntel

OFFICIAL FRAMER

Adam Brand / Frames USA

Coral Gables Magazine is published monthly by City Regional Media, 1200 Anastasia Ave. Suite 115, Coral Gables FL 33134. Telephone: (305) 995-0995. Copyright 2023 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: Philanthropist and businesswoman

Alina Meledina in a tamale cactus green Kiana dress with 30 Montaigne sunglasses by Dior from Edward Beiner (Shops at Merrick Park).

Each month, we print letters we receive from our readers. We encourage all commentary, including criticism as well as compliments, and any thoughts about our community. If you are interested, please send your thoughts to letters@coralgablesmagazine.com. Letters are edited for brevity.

Thanks for the Memories

We would like to thank you for the beautiful tribute to our mother, Sallye Jude, in the February issue of Coral Gables Magazine and for dedicating this Home & Garden Issue to her.  It was heartwarming to read the many memories of her friends, allowing us to see a side of our mother we may not have known.

Our mother truly loved Coral Gables and often would share her thoughts with us about what was going on in the city (good and bad) and that she was going to work to make sure that it would remain the best place to live. Growing up in Coral Gables, we were blessed to enjoy all that makes the city the wonderful place that it is – swimming at Venetian Pool, summer camp at one of the parks, Christmas lights, tour of homes, shopping on Miracle Mile, photo with Santa at Holiday Park, etc. The Children of Sallye & Jim Jude Editor’s Comment: As a sad coda we note that Sallye’s son John Lee Jude passed away in February after a short illness. He had been Sallye’s primary care giver for the last years of her life.

I’ve been meaning to write to tell you how much I enjoyed your beautiful and comprehensive “Memories of Sallye” as the cover article in February’s magazine. I loved the way you asked various friends to tell their memories of her and included so many wonderful photos. We are keeping this issue on our bookshelves. Sallye was an incredible woman and Coral Gables Magazine did an exceptional job reminding our community of the local heroes among us. I love your magazine!

Betsy Tilghman

Thank you for the wonderful tribute to Sallye Jude. What a beautiful tribute to a life well lived! Mrs. Jude was a force of nature – her well-deserved reputation for historic preservation is well-recognized, and her contributions to our community are vast.

I once rented the Miami River Inn for a retreat of physicians, nurses, social workers, and other Mercy Hospital clinicians to improve teamwork and communication. I selected the location because it was close to the hospital – but worlds apart from our

everyday lives. Mrs. Jude had created an oasis in the middle of the city that honored our local history and offered respite and a place for introspection and contemplation as we bonded and found ways to work more collaboratively.

As a strong Catholic and the wife of a well-known Mercy heart surgeon, she took us under her wing and helped with the retreat. Mrs. Jude appreciated my interest in historic preservation but challenged us on the importance of environmental stewardship and our need to recycle. She emphasized that conservation was about people, places, and the environment. “Caring for people is important,” she told us. “But caring for the planet is essential.” Memories of Sallye are vital to many of us, but more importantly, her legacy continues in the lives touched, the lessons taught, and the places restored.

Shed Boren, PhD

Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, FIU

What a wonderful tribute to Sallye Jude! She was a patron saint of preservation in our community. The stories told by various Gableites are heartwarming and portrayed what an icon and treasure she was. We were blessed to have her. She will be sorely missed.

Janet Nostro

Return Those Dollars

I find it interesting that the City and the BID [Business Improvement District, now disbanded] are fighting over the funds remaining in the BID’s account. They should both do the right thing and return the money to the property owners and business owners who paid it.

Michael Steffens

New Luxury Senior Living Debuting 2023

New Luxury Senior Living Debuting 2023

In search of the perfect place for you or a loved one to enjoy South Florida’s coastal lifestyle? The Watermark at Coral Gables is an elevated senior community featuring luxury residences, five-star dining, and an idyllic setting. Here, it’s easy to share laughs with friends by the pool, relax at our on-site salon and spa, and savor gourmet cuisine.

In search of the perfect place for you or a loved one to enjoy South Florida’s coastal lifestyle? The Watermark at Coral Gables is an elevated senior community featuring luxury residences, five-star dining, and an idyllic setting. Here, it’s easy to share laughs with friends by the pool, relax at our on-site salon and spa, and savor gourmet cuisine.

With tailored care levels and enriching educational programs designed to enhance growth and connection, the community is a place to thrive. Be among the first to experience Coral Gables’ most anticipated residential offering of 2023. Offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, The Watermark at Coral Gables is rich with possibilities.

With tailored care levels and enriching educational programs designed to enhance growth and connection, the community is a place to thrive. Be among the first to experience Coral Gables’ most anticipated residential offering of 2023. Offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, The Watermark at Coral Gables is rich with possibilities.

Call 786-437-0192 today to schedule a visit to our leasing gallery and inquire about joining our Founders Club.

Call 786-437-0192 today to schedule a visit to our leasing gallery and inquire about joining our Founders Club.

watermarkcoralgables.com |

786-437-0192

watermarkcoralgables.com | 786-437-0192

Community: 363 Granello Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33146

Community: 363 Granello Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33146

Leasing Gallery: 330 San Lorenzo Ave. #2340, Coral Gables, FL 33146

Leasing Gallery: 330 San Lorenzo Ave. #2340, Coral Gables, FL 33146

Streetwise Talk of the Town

THE 17-FOOT, SIX-TON CARRARA MARBLE SCULPTURE, “ROTAS,” SCULPTED BY ITALIAN ARTIST FABIO VIALE FOR THE COLLECTION CAR DEALERSHIP.

ervation Board previously voted 9-0 to deny request for demolition because loss of the building “would affect the architectural integrity” of the Obispo Avenue Historic District, said Warren Adams, the city’s director of historical resources and cultural arts.

From City Hall

AT ITS TWO MEETINGS IN FEBRUARY, THE CORAL GABLES CITY COMMISSION:

DISCUSSED ONGOING SIDEWALKS PROJECTS, including those at University Drive, Blue Road, and Venetia Terrace, most of which are waiting on county approval. Currently, the city has approximately three miles of sidewalk replacement pending which will cost about $3.4 million. The total amount of missing sidewalks within city limits comes to approximately 79 miles, which would cost over $26 million to add. The commission agreed to discuss “the future of sidewalks” at a separate sunshine meeting.

VOTED 5-0 TO AUTHORIZE AN AMENDMENT to Coral Gables Museum’s mission statement that will refocus its commitment to visual artwork. At least two concerned citizens spoke up, including one who said, “This request continues to move away from the original founding purpose of [the museum] being an educational and cultural institution.” Museum Executive Director Elvis Fuentes said artwork exhibits further the museum’s mission and are helping it acquire accreditation, which will lead to federal funding.

LISTENED TO AN UPDATE ON THE Biltmore Way and Flagler Section projects, which have been in the works since 2019. Six possibilities were presented to redesign the section of Biltmore Way between Anderson Road and Hernando Street and three possibilities to redesign the Flagler Section. The Commission agreed to wait on narrowing down the options for both projects until budgets for each plan had been presented and enough resident input had been solicited through sunshine meetings and/or public ballots. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson)

VOTED 5-0 TO ENFORCE A $500 DAILY fine for contractors and construction companies who abandon construction signage and barricades along rights of way in the city for longer than 24 hours. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago)

VOTED 5-0 TO ENFORCE ADDITIONAL penalties for those who use bicycles, motorized scooters, or skateboards on unauthorized sidewalks. Currently, the fine is $35. After the first offense, the amount will be raised to $100, and any subsequent violations will result in $200 fines. (Sponsored by Commissioner Anderson)

VOTED 5-0 TO WAIVE THE COMPETITIVE process in the procurement code so that the Coral Gables police department can acquire a Tesla for a pilot program that will test the cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles in the field. (Sponsored by Mayor Lago)

REJECTED AN APPEAL BY THE OWNER OF a house at 1258 Obispo Ave. who wanted to demolish his historic 1945 home. The Historic Pres-

The vote was 4-1 to deny demolition, with only Mayor Lago voting in favor. Lago felt the ruling was unfair because it would cost the homeowner more to restore the home than replace it. Adams said the homeowner had been fully informed of the historic restrictions when he purchased the home.

VOTED 5-0 TO RECOMMIT THE Commission’s support to the Phillips Park project. Proposed renovations include expanding the playground; removing one tennis court and the dugouts; resurfacing and adding new equipment for both basketball and tennis courts; replacing the current building with new offices and indoor restrooms; and adding landscaping, a water play area, shade structures, artificial turf for the field, two new pickleball courts, a lighting and CCTV camera system, and wider walkways. Another community meeting will be held in May to discuss the final design. (Sponsored by Commissioner Menendez)

LISTENED TO A SUMMARY OF THE dramatic increase in efficiency by the city’s development department in reviewing construction permits now that the system is electronic. In all of 2022, some 30,128 permits were reviewed. In just January of this year, 25,183 permits were reviewed. Compared to January of 2022 (when 9,035 permits were reviewed) that represents an increase of 178 percent. “Let’s stop the noise and misinformation and listen to the facts,” said Mayor Lago, who defended the new system against unsubstantiated accusations by local bloggers.

LISTENED TO A PROPOSAL BY MAYOR LAGO to install “two tools” in every city park: a defibrillator that can be used to restore heartbeat in the event of a heart attack, and a camera to act as a deterrent to both crime and illegal dumping. Lago requested a cost analysis from the city manager. “It’s not going to be cheap, but it will be worth it,” he said.

DISCUSSED THE CITY’S ANNUAL GRANTS to cultural arts organizations, which amount to just over $190,000. Some 33 organizations receive grants, a third of which are based in Coral Gables. The commission reiterated its commitment to funding outside organizations so long as the events – estimated to generate some $23 million in expenditures by visitors – are staged in the Gables. Mayor Lago wanted to increase the scrutiny of how the funds are spent, while Commissioner Kirk Menendez wanted to make sure that smaller organizations – including schools – had equal access to the grant dollars. The commission asked the cultural arts staff to return with further codicils that offer discounted or free tickets to residents. ■

1258 OBISPO AVENUE

Talk of the Town

The Once and Future Mayor

What does it take to get elected in Coral Gables? Just ask Mayor Vince Lago, who just won his second term without opposition. “There is a way to get into elected office in this city,” he says, “and it’s very simple. You have to work hard. You have to have a plan. You have to address the needs of the residents, the employees, and the business community. And you have to listen to people. You have to meet with people.” One of the hallmarks of Lago’s career as city commissioner, vice mayor, and now mayor has been his Friday open door policy, where any resident can come and bend his ear. He has also established a long record of supporting environmental stewardship, city cleanliness, public safety, fiscal responsibility, public art, and the expansion of the parks system. “In the end, all I want is to be known as a mayor who made Coral Gables a better place to live and work,” Lago says. The fact that no one ran against him is, at least on some level, a testament to his success as the city’s CEO. Lago will now serve another two years in the office of mayor.

A New Dog Park in Town

One of the great mysteries – and one of the great disappointments for canine owners – is the absence of dedicated dog parks in the city. While several are in the works, including one under the Metrorail near UM and another at Salvador Park, the first to arrive came last year at Catalonia Park, a small area for small pooches. Now comes a temporary park for bigger dogs at 1505 Ponce, the site of the latest

luxury condo project by Location Ventures. Because the project is a year away from construction, Location Ventures CEO Rishi Kapoor decided to offer the space for a pop-up dog park. “As an owner of an Australian Shepherd and Belgian Tervuren, I personally know the importance of appreciating a nearby area for them to run free,” says Kapoor.

The new dog park, at the corner of Menores Avenue and Ponce de Leon Boulevard, has more than 3,000-square-feet for dogs and includes a standard, double door enter/exit system, a dog run, benches, waste disposal, and a pet water station.

MAYOR VINCE LAGO, ELECTED TO HIS SECOND TERM IN OFFICE

Photo by Rodolfo Benitez

The park was dedicated last month in a ceremony where Commissioner Rhonda Anderson (above) – a tireless advocate for dog parks, and the owner of two rescue Greyhounds – was joined by Mayor Lago and Commissioner Kirk Menendez for the ribbon cutting. Once construction begins, a permanent (albeit smaller park) will be installed as part of the development.

on and Hall-of-Famer to the Gables for a lively evening of unfiltered storytelling. From his volatile relationship with Coach Shula, to brazen exploits with his NFL pals, to thrilling Alaska adventures, #39 will have plenty of ground to cover. Csonka’s fellow Fins alum and WQAM personality Joe Rose will provide additional color as moderator.

Oh, That Magic Number 39

It’s been 50 years since Larry Csonka (above) literally led the charge that propelled the Dolphins into their coveted position as the only undefeated team in NFL history. Now the famed fullback is back. Csonka will be in town on March 31 to talk about his brutally frank, critically acclaimed memoir, “Head On,” at Coral Gables Congregational Church across from The Biltmore Hotel. Books & Books owner Mitchell Kaplan invited the two-time Super Bowl Champi-

Csonka says that Kaplan played a key role in the publication of “Head On.” “Mitchell was my sounding board from the get-go, always generous with his time, and he’s been a tremendous supporter of my book.” As for this month’s homecoming, “Miami will always be part of me,” Csonka says, “it still feels like home. It’s in my blood. I was in my prime and we were winning.” The purchase of one ticket will admit two guests and will include a copy of “Head On: A Memoir,” which the author will personalize for you. He’ll also sign any copy you previously purchased. He will not, however, sign memorabilia. So, leave that jersey home. RSVP required at booksandbooks.com or call 305.442.4408 – Elizabeth Smith

Moon Over Ponce

Not since the Umbrella Sky project – which draped Giralda Plaza with hundreds of brightly colored umbrellas – has there been such hoopla over a public art exhibit. But this month’s “Moon Over the Gables” promises not only hype but a stunning visual display of –you guessed it – the moon. For three weekends (Thursdays to

Saturdays), Ponce Circle Park will be illuminated by a brightly lit, 23-foot moon with detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. Each inch will represent eight miles of the moon’s surface. The celestial globe is the creation of UK artist Luke Jerram, who calls it “Museum of the Moon,” and is being brought to the Gables by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, the organization behind Umbrella Sky. The project, with support from the city, is expected to attract 40,000 visitors, with an economic impact of $12.4 million. “It is an inflatable moon, and it appears, when you are under it or near it, to be an actual moon surface,” Foundation CEO Mary Snow told City Commissioners last month. “It’s really, really cool.” Commissioner Kirk Menendez quipped that there should be signs on Ponce warning “Full Moon Ahead” to prevent automobile accidents. The moon will rise at 5 pm and set at 11 pm on the evenings of March 9-11, 16-18, and 23-25.

sculpture commissioned in 2020 by Ugo Colombo, owner of The Collection, of which the Jaguar Land Rover is a part. The 17-foot piece, entitled “Rotas” – the Latin word for “wheels” – was sculpted by Italian artist Fabio Viale. “‘Rotas’ perfectly combines the old world and new, while showcasing Italian design,” says Colombo. “We wish to not only share the beauty of Viale’s work, but to also usher in a new era of art in the City Beautiful.” It’s also not a bad way to bring attention to the new 534,000-square-foot dealership, with enough room to showcase two dozen cars, park another 1,000 cars, and serve customers with a lounge and Bistro by Bachour.

The Wheel Deal

Speaking of art in public places and Ponce de Leon Boulevard, you may have noticed a large white carved wheel outside the Jaguar Land Rover Coral Gables dealership at the intersection of Ponce and US-1. This is no ordinary wheel, but a six-ton Carrara marble

Amerant’s Run

At the end of January, the largest bank headquartered in Coral Gables – Amerant – announced its assets and income for the full year of 2022. Among the highlights, the bank’s total assets reached $9.1 billion, up 19.5 percent from 2021’s total of $7.6 billion. Net income for the year was a handsome $63.3 million. Highlighting that financial run, the bank sponsored its second annual Amerant Bank 5K in Coral Gables on the second-to-last Sunday of January, with more than 1,000 runners, walkers, family well-wishers, and fitness enthusiasts participating. The five-kilometer run started outside City Hall and ran through adjacent residential streets. The winner was Nacho Trujillo, who came in at 18 minutes and 21 seconds. Of course, the real winners were the families that benefitted from the $100,000 that the event raised for United Way Miami. “We believe it’s important to connect with our community in meaningful ways that support healthy habits,” said Amerant Chairman and CEO Jerry Plush. See you at next year’s race. ■

WE’VE BEEN AROUND YOUR BLOCK

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The Next City Election: April 11

On Tuesday, April 11, local elections will take place in Coral Gables. Mayor Vince Lago has already won re-election, after runing unopposed. Two City Commission seats are up for grabs, however, as Vice Mayor Michael Mena and interim City Commissioner Jim Cason step down. Four candidates have filed to take Commissioner Cason’s Group IV seat, while two have filed to fill the Group V shoes of Vice Mayor Mena.

To make it easy for you, here is a summary of the relevant information on when and where to vote, along with thumbnails about the candidates, each of whom provided us with a glimpse into the ideas they are campaigning on. The mayor will serve a two-year term while the commissioners will serve for four years.

Voting

Voting will take place on Election Day (April 11) at the same assigned precinct where you vote for all local, state, and federal elections. To vote early or drop off a mail-in ballot, you can go to the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center (405 University Dr., 305.460.5600) on April 1, 2, or 8 from 8 am to 4 pm.

Requests for vote-by-mail ballots must be made by April 1 and can be found by going to miamidade.gov and clicking “Voter Information.” If you are not registered to vote, you must do so by going to registertovoteflorida.com before March 13 to participate in this election. If a runoff election is necessary, it will be held on Tuesday, April 25 with early voting and mail-in ballot drop-offs taking place on April 22 and 23.

Mayor

VINCE LAGO

Current mayor Vince Lago has won re-election, now serving a second term. As mayor, he has taken a special interest in environmental causes and public safety, with a focus on economic diversification and conservative fiscal policies. He is currently championing several city projects, including expanding sidewalks, adding new parks, and cleaning up downtown streets and residential trash pits. Mayor Lago ran unopposed due to the change in the candidacy of Jackson “Rip” Holmes from mayor to city commissioner.

Group IV: City Commission Candidates

IVETTE ARANGO O’DOSKI

Ivette Arango O’Doski is a University of Miami Law graduate and small business owner of her own interior design company, Ivette

CORAL GABLES MAGAZINE’S GUIDE TO VOTING

Arango Interiors. Endorsed by Mayor Lago, her platform for election is focused on promoting the interests of small businesses, combatting traffic and overdevelopment, supporting services for seniors and families, and championing safety and the environment. ivette4coralgables.com.

MELISSA CASTRO

Having run M.E.D. Expeditors in Coral Gables since 2020, Melissa Castro is running for City Commission on a platform that emphasizes improvements to the historically long permitting process in Coral Gables. Castro also hopes to prioritize historic preservation and take a data-oriented approach to the city budget while educating residents on “green” issues like pollution. votemelissagables.com

SEAN PATRICK MCGROVER

The owner of McGrover Funding Corporation, which provides residential loans throughout Florida, Sean Patrick McGrover’s platform is focused primarily on business and the economy as he hopes to attract more large companies into the Gables and develop Coral Gables’ own cryptocurrency. He also wants to protect the city’s Triple A Bond rating ahead of a potential recession and develop a down payment grant program to assist first responders and healthcare workers in buying homes.

JACKSON “RIP” HOLMES

Coral Gables native and former attorney Jackson “Rip” Holmes is running for a commission seat based largely on a platform opposing overdevelopment in the Gables and advocating for a system that allows voters to decide on major development projects rather than the local government. Since 2019, Holmes has consistently thrown his hat in the ring as both a commission and mayoral candidate.

Group V: City Commission Candidates

ALEXANDER LUIS BUCELO

After losing out in the 2021 election to Commissioner Kirk Menendez, attorney and Coral Gables native Alex Bucelo is now running again with the endorsement of Mayor Lago, former mayor Don Slesnick, Vice Mayor Mena, and Commissioner Menendez on a pro-environment platform opposing large-scale development and raising taxes. Bucelo describes himself as a nonpartisan candidate. alexbucelo.com.

ARIEL FERNANDEZ

Gables Insider editor Ariel Fernandez’s campaign revolves around a “residents first” approach that prioritizes citizens over developers, streamlines the permitting process, and ensures adequate employment for police and fire. This will be his second time running for Commissioner since he moved to Coral Gables in 2010. voteariel.com. ■

SEAN PATRICK MCGROVER

JACKSON “RIP” HOLMES

ALEXANDER LUIS BUCELO

ARIEL FERNANDEZ

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Living

Ella Bella RoZio’s One-of a-Kind Wedding Dresses

Page 32

Best Bets for March

formed into a celestial art experience with “Moon Over the Gables,” a free event that brings the internationally renowned “Museum of the Moon” to the Gables. Measuring 23-feet in diameter, UK artist Luke Jerram’s moon features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. The installation fuses lunar imagery, moonlight, and surround sound composition created by BAFTA and award-winning composer Dan Jones.

IF IT AIN’T BAROQUE…

Join the Alhambra Orchestra for a free “Go for Baroque” concert on Sunday, March 12 at 7:30 pm at the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ. The concert will take a musical tour of Baroque Europe, with music from England, France, Spain, Italy, and Germany – and feature Vivaldi’s Violin Concerto in A minor with soloist Steffen Zeichner. 3010 De Soto Blvd. alhambraorchestra.org

ART OFF THE WALL: LUCK AT THE MUSEUM

Presented by the Young Associates of the Coral Gables Museum, this March 16 fundraiser event runs from 6 to 9:30 pm in the hopes of bringing together young professionals, neighbors, and friends. With art, live music, a dance performance, and an open bar, this evening will be replete with things to do and see – and all in support of the Coral Gables Museum, where the event will be held. Tickets are $40 and can be found on Eventbrite. Use promo code CoralGablesMagazine for $5 off. 285 Aragon Ave.

33RD MIAMI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Enjoy 10 days of must-see films, parties, and special guests from around the world at the Miami International Film Festival this month at Coral Gables Art Cinema. The festival starts on March 4 with director Alex de la IgIesia’s “My Big Night,” followed by dancing and cocktails at the opening night party. Other film highlights include Sundance Documentary Grand Jury prize winner “Weiner,” “Much Ado About Nothing,” and “The Bride.” The final day of the festival is March 13. Tickets are $10 for students, veterans, and Miami Film Society members; $12 for adults over 65; and $13 for general admission and virtual screening. 260 Aragon Ave. coralgablesartcinema.com.

BIKE WALK CORAL GABLES

MOON OVER THE GABLES

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of March, starting on the 9th, Ponce Circle Park across from The Plaza Coral Gables will be trans-

Rescheduled by popular demand, Bike Walk Coral Gables’ “Art in The City ‘’ bike tour is back on March 19 from 10 am to 1 pm. This month’s ride will take bikers to iconic art installations throughout the City Beautiful that are part of Coral Gables’ renowned Art in Public Places program. The tour starts at Coral Gables Museum and costs $10 or $5 for museum and Bike Walk members, Coral Gables city employees, or children under 12. Be sure to bring your own bike. Helmets are required for children under 16. 285 Aragon Ave. bikewalkcoralgables.org.

SERAPHIC FIRE “SACRED | PROFANE” PERFORMANCE

On Friday, March 24 at 7:30 pm, guest conductor Maria Guinand, the director of the Schola Cantorum de Venezuela, joins the Grammy-nominated choral ensemble originally started in Coral Gables, Seraphic Fire, for the performance of a lifetime. Combining Bach’s Jesu, meine Freude with secular, Spanish-language Renaissance and contemporary works, this performance at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church will also feature a pre-concert conversation one hour before the event. Tickets are $50. 1121 Andalusia Ave. seraphicfire.org

“BRIGHT STAR” AT MIRACLE THEATRE

From March 29 to April 16, get inspired by a true story featuring a Tony-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Set in the American South during the 1920s and 40s, “Bright Star” tells a story of love and redemption against the rich. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, you don’t want to miss this uplifting theatrical journey. Tickets start at $40. Performances Wed.-Sat. 8 pm, Sat. 2 pm, Sun. 3 pm. Actors’ Playhouse at Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. actorsplayhouse.org.

FARMER’S MARKET SWAN SONG

March is the final month for the Coral Gables Farmer’s Market at City Hall. Each Saturday through March 25, from 8 am to 2 pm, dozens of local vendors will bring fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, flowers, drinks, and gift items to the section of Biltmore Way that abuts City Hall. A family tradition and fun for all.

“A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2”

Lucas Hnath’s bitingly funny sequel to Ibsen’s revolutionary masterpiece unfolds in a series of bristling stand-offs, as Nora – the young wife and mother who left her family behind – returns 15 years later to ask an incredibly awkward favor from the people she abandoned. The revelation? A slamming door isn’t just an end, but also the chance for a new beginning. The play runs at GableStage through March 19 with performances on Wed. at 2 and 7 pm, Thurs.-Sat. at 8 pm, and Sun. at 2 pm. Tickets start at $27. Starring Rachel Burttram, Brendan Powers, Yasmine Harrell, and Elizabeth Dimon. 1200 Anastasia Ave. gablestage.org

BEST REASON TO LEAVE THE GABLES: MIAMI OPEN

One of the largest and most prestigious events in professional tennis, the Miami Open will take place from March 19 to April 2 at Hard Rock Stadium. Each year, the two-week tennis tournament attracts hundreds of thousands of tennis lovers from around the world to watch their favorite players compete. Ticket prices vary each day. 347 Don Shula Drive. miamiopen.com. ■

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Dressed to the Nines

FOR THOSE WITH WEDDING BELLS IN THE FUTURE, ELLA BELLA ROZIO PROVIDES A UNIQUE SOLUTION

BY GABRIELLE LORD

Still decked with the fluffy white “snow” that earned the shop the title of Coral Gables’ best holiday window display, Ella Bella RoZio’s doors remain locked to walk-ins. The wedding dress shop is appointment-only, partly to give its high-profile clients complete privacy, and partly to ensure the undivided attention of both Rozio Sanchez and her daughter Ella Pena. Inside, the racks are stocked with silk silhouettes and taffeta trains, simple lace bodices and extravagant crystal embellishments. While the dresses that fill the interior are certainly eye-catching, most customers at Ella Bella aren’t shopping off-the-rack. These clients are on the hunt for a oneof-a-kind look, made specifically for them.

“Our typical client isn’t a cookie-cutter bride,” Sanchez says. “She wants something that no one else has… that when she walks in everyone goes, ‘Wow.’”

While no two dresses are identical, the process for making them is about the same. At the initial consultation, the Ella Bella designers ask a series of questions to better understand the client’s vision. They then perform a full body and color analysis to advise the customer on their most complimentary shape, style, and shade, before sketching the dress out.

For bride Ely Mendieta, this step was crucial in finding a flattering fit. “I originally had a completely different vision in mind,” she said. “I appreciate [Sanchez and Pena’s] honesty because what I wanted wouldn’t have looked good on me.” Instead of the fluffy princess-style ball gown she initially envisioned, Mendieta decided on a form-fitting style that would better suit her curvy figure.

Once the design is completed, Sanchez and Pena refer to the client’s budget to select fabrics, as these can be one of the costliest components. “Other stores looked at me judgmentally when they heard my budget and it made me feel defeated,” said bride Adriana Alvarez, who recently picked out a dress for her destination wedding in Spain. “[Ella Bella RoZio] was very accommodating and was able to work around my budget.”

While the mother-daughter duo recommends coming in six months before the big event, dresses at Ella Bella can be rush ordered, with a turnaround time of as little as one week. It’s also typical to see brides coming in for last-minute alterations before walking down the aisle. Mendieta, for example, had to get her dress taken in mere weeks before her big day after losing a substantial amount of weight.

“We don’t let our clients leave until they are happy,” says Sanchez. Often, she even has her clients come into the shop in full hair and makeup, just to guarantee their full satisfaction with the completed look.

Although brides and mother-of-the-brides are the type of clientele they see most frequently, Sanchez and Pena also dress their clients for first communions, proms, galas, and other special occasions. If you have a special event coming up and want to wear a completely original design, Ella Bella offers consultations in-store or via video call. ■

ABOVE: ROZIO SANCHEZ AND HER DAUGHTER ELLA PENA, OWNERS OF ELLA BELLA ROZIO BRIDAL STORE, WHICH OFFERS ONE-OF-A-KIND LOOKS MADE SPECIFICALLY FOR THE CLIENT.

Anything but Boring

MIGUEL WILSON CUTS A COLORFUL SWATH FOR GROOMS ON MIRACLE MILE

BY HARRIET MAYS POWELL

Menswear designer Miguel Wilson cut a striking figure when we met at his new store on Miracle Mile. With a shaved head and neatly trimmed salt and pepper stubble, he was dressed in a bright pink peaked-lapel blazer, plus a bold paisley printed shirt opened just enough to expose a large diamond necklace. It was a far cry from his stint as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army Reserves (where he served in the military police corps), as well as his days earning an MBA from Campbell University.

Wilson began his fashion career in Raleigh, NC in 1993, and then moved to Atlanta, where he specialized in custom tailoring. After a series of failures, which led to divorce and bankruptcy, he rebuilt his business and now focuses on grooms and groomsmen with the Miguel Wilson Wedding Collection for men.

“I identified a market that wasn’t being addressed,” says Wilson. “I recognized that men getting married didn’t have a fashion option. [Their choices were] driven by the rental market. I felt that I could make my mark designing clothes that better met their needs.” Hence, his tag line: “Because it’s his day too.”

A Dominican-American, Wilson was influenced by both his father’s and grandfather’s sartorial style. “My grandfather probably has more of a ’50s and ’60s look, which I still like a lot today, whereas my father was more influenced by European designs,” Wilson explains. “My own style has elements of both.”

Among Wilson’s clients is the rapper Tauheed Epps, known as 2 Chainz, whom he dressed for his 2018 wedding to Kesha Ward, and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Albert Wilson. Miguel Wilson has also given the LGBTQ community a place to shop at for their weddings. “Many people travel to our stores in Atlanta, D.C., or Miami from other states because in their hometown, the local tuxedo shop would not do business with them or would give them less-than-stellar service,” he said.

All of Wilson’s grooms get to enjoy a special time in the store’s lounge prior to their wedding and again after the big day when they return to model in one of Wilson’s Wedding Collection runway shows. “We have a ‘Toast and a Roast,’” he says, “remembering all the things [about the wedding experience] that made us laugh and all the things that made us cry.”

An avid horseman and polo player, Wilson recently re-married and rode into the outdoor ceremony wearing a white tuxedo, mounted atop one of his ponies. He has also started a foundation called “Ride to the Olympics” to help underprivileged youth of color learn how to ride.

Although 80 percent of his business remains in the wedding market, Wilson also offers a selection of blazers and pants in a myriad of ornate brocades and vibrant hues. “The wedding industry was just my entry,” he says. “My bigger vision has always been to create a lifestyle brand.” His love of color is evident throughout the store. Most men, he says “are stuck with three colors — black, blue, and gray – with only slight variations in stripes or checks, which is just boring.”

Miami holds a special place in his heart, Wilson insists, because it’s been integral to his rebirth. “I’ve spent a lot of time in Miami, I have a lot of friends here, and I continue to receive a lot of support from the area,” he says. “This isn’t just business for me, it’s personal. And our own space here is long overdue.” ■

Photo by Tiege Dolly

Burn, Baby, Burn

WITH 20 YEARS BEHIND IT, SERAPHIC FIRE BECOMES A GABLES INSTITUTION

BY ISABELLA CASCIO

When Seraphic Fire founding member and artistic director Patrick Quigley steps on-stage, the applause is deafening. The atmosphere in the room is boisterous as whoops and hollers echo across the pews of St. Philip’s Episcopal in Coral Gables. The crowd has come to spend their Friday evening enjoying the musical stylings of Johann Sebastian Bach by the professional vocal ensemble Seraphic Fire – and they’re excited.

The cantatas of Bach are central to Seraphic Fire’s annual Enlightenment Festival, a key piece of their 20th anniversary season. Over the last two decades, the organization has grown from rehearsals in Coral Gables churches into an internationally recognized ensemble with 16 albums, two Grammy nominations, and a devoted following in the Gables and beyond.

Quigley and fellow Gables resident Joanne Schulte founded Seraphic Fire in 2002 following a conversation about their mutual love for a French Baroque ensemble, which inspired them to create a similar organization in South Florida. Seraphic Fire was born, and in the two decades since has covered everything from ninth century songs to Renaissance music to commissioned pieces.

“There was definitely a need for [a professional vocal ensemble], and we just started putting on shows to see if anyone would show up,” says Quigley. “We

were fortunate that it became very popular very quickly.”

In addition to entertaining the community, Seraphic Fire is a strong advocate for musical education in Coral Gables and beyond. The Seraphic Fire Youth Initiative (formerly the Miami Choral Academy) brings music workshops to public elementary schools across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Collier counties (including Gables Elementary), giving students the chance to learn from professional musicians. The ensemble also holds an annual masterclass for high schoolers participating in local and national choral competitions. At the collegiate level, the Ensemble Artist Program allows student musicians at University of Miami and UC Los Angeles to sing with the ensemble during the season.

Seraphic Fire also has a podcast about classical music, a pre-concert lecture series, a magazine, and a residency at the Aspen Music Festival, but the group’s work in the community is the big draw for their devoted patrons. “We have a really dedicated and enthusiastic following of people from all walks of life who are interested in music outside of the mainstream of classical music,” Quigley says.

One of these devoted supporters is Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Trowbridge, who formerly served as co-chair of Seraphic Fire. “When you volun-

PATRICK QUIGLEY, FOUNDING MEMBER AND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SERAPHIC FIRE. SAYS QUIGLEY, “WHEN PEOPLE GO HOME AND TALK ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES WITH SERAPHIC FIRE, YOU KNOW THEY’RE TALKING ABOUT A CORAL GABLES INSTITUTION.”

teer for something you love – and know that the music we produce is world-class in every way – it is easy to raise your hand and offer to serve in an even higher capacity,” Trowbridge says. “No one does it better than our ensemble and I could not be prouder of what the future holds.”

Although the organization’s reach has expanded, with offices on Coral Way, Seraphic Fire still

SERAPHIC FIRE CONCERTS IN CORAL GABLES:

MARCH 24

ST. PHILIP’S EPISCOPAL

1121 ANDALUSIA AVE.

APRIL 28

CHURCH OF THE LITTLE FLOWER

2711 INDIAN MOUND TRAIL

Tickets can be purchased online at seraphicfire.org/tickets/

proudly considers the Gables home. “It’s unique for [the city] to have something that is at the top of the game in the national classical music world but that is still primarily serving the people of Coral Gables,” Quigley says. “When people go home and talk about their experiences with Seraphic Fire, you know they’re talking about a Coral Gables institution.” ■

A Bike Walk to Remember

BY ISABELLA CASCIO

Every third Sunday of the month, dozens of cyclists congregate at the Coral Gables Museum to enjoy a few hours biking the tree-lined streets of our city, courtesy of Bike Walk Coral Gables. I went to February’s tour, a nearly three-hour-long adventure starting at 10 am devoted to “capturing Coral Gables” for the museum’s annual photo contest. Tickets are $10 (or $5 for museum members), and you must bring your own bike.

I’m no avid cyclist, but the tour’s leisurely pace was easy to follow, even on my ’90s era Trek bike. And while Coral Gables doesn’t always feel built for bikes, riding in a group with volunteer traffic directors made it much safer.

Guided by Dade-Heritage Trust director Chris Rupp and Coral Gables Bike Walk co-founders John and Debbie Swain, we made our way from downtown Gables through quiet residential streets. Each of our eight stops had historical or cultural significance, with Rupp providing expert commentary – including on the Biltmore, Coral Gables Elementary, and the hold-out home at The Plaza Coral Gables project now surrounded by parking garage walls.

Bike Walk Coral Gables was founded two decades ago and has gained a devoted following. “Except when we get rained out, we’ve done these tours every month since 2011,” says John Swain. “People keep coming back.” And it’s not only locals – February’s tour included cyclists hailing from Hollywood, Miami Beach, and South Miami, as well as visitors from as far north as Maryland. This month’s March 19 tour will focus on art fixtures in the city. Ride on. ■

Coral Gables is always in bloom.

With over 15 years of experience in and around Coral Gables, I can help you navigate this season’s real estate market.

Are you interested in maximizing your home’s value? Call me if you are looking to leverage your neighborhood’s blossoming market.

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BIKE WALK CORAL GABLES BIKEWALKCORALGABLES.ORG CORAL GABLES MUSEUM 285 ARAGON AVE.

Bites

Quick Bites

... Soups On!

FRENCH ONION

Though not a French restaurant, The Globe has perfected certain French pub dishes over the years, including their steak frites and French onion soup. Once the dish of peasants (onions were plentiful and easy to grow), the modern souple à l’oignon is all about the balance between beef stock, translucent caramelized onions, crusty bread, and melted Gruyère cheese. The Globe has it down ($9). 377 Alhambra Cir. 305.445.3555

WILD MUSHROOM

As any mycologist knows, there are mushrooms and then there are mushrooms. The fungi used for the Mushroom Bisque at Seasons 52 are not the usual portobello or white mushrooms but darker, more flavorful varieties. The result is a rich, deep taste of the woods, with just 310 calories for a cup ($6.50) or 420 calories for a bowl ($7.50). For true mushroom lovers. 321 Miracle Mile. 305.442.8552.

FISH PEPPER SOUP

Peruvian cuisine is among the most diverse in the world, not limited to its most popular export, the marinated raw fish dish of ceviche. Staying within the seafood orbit, Divino Ceviche serves a warm seafood parihuela with shrimp, cod, squid, scallops, mussels, cilantro, lime, and Peruvian panca pepper ($19, $11.50 small) that will lift the heart of any Incan. 160 Giralda Plaza. 786.360.3775

VICHYSSOISE

There are very few places in Miami-Dade County that offer this sophisticated French leek and potato soup, served cold. So, it’s some surprise that it is created brilliantly and daily (it uses fresh cream) at Bugatti’s Bistro, know for its pasta rather than anything French. The flavor, with a hint of fennel and chopped chives, is exquisite ($9). 2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545.

SHRIMP SOUP

Shrimp soup, when done right, brings out the essence of the shrimp flavor better than any other way the crustacean is prepared. For us, the zuppa di granchio ($15.95, $16.95 dinner) at Villagio’s is tastier than either crab soup or lobster bisque, with chopped fresh local shrimp in a reduction of celery, onions, garlic, and cream. Plus, you get to sit outside at the Shops at Merrick Park. 360 San Lorenzo Ave. 305.447.8144.

Okay, so we don’t have the kind of cold winter weather that turns the consumption of soup into a soul-saving event. But it doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a bowl of hot broth that restores life and limb, among the most primitive yet satisfying of the foods we eat. Here are some of the best options around town.

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Midday Mediterranean

THREE COURSES BY A MASTER CHEF

BY KYLIE WANG

Unfortunately, there’s no category for Best Pork Tenderloin in our July/August Best of Coral Gables Issue. But if there was, it would go to Chef Christian Chirino of TUR Kitchen, who continuously delights us with his inventive Mediterranean cuisine. This is no less true of TUR’s executive lunch menu, available Monday through Friday from 12 to 3 pm, which costs $39 per person for a three-course meal and features a delectable cast of the restaurant’s best dishes, many of which use locally sourced ingredients.

The ful medames is our favorite appetizer on the executive menu, a hummus-adjacent spread that’s served with triangles of pita bread. It’s Egypt’s national dish – although it’s usually made as a stew rather than a dip – and the soft pita slices are coated with za’atar, a blended Middle Eastern spice that gives the bread a buttery overlay and makes a napkin necessary. Garnished on top are slices of peppers and jalapeno to give the vegan-friendly dish a kick.

While TUR understands spreads like no one else – the free lavash bread you receive upon arrival also comes with the best crème fraiche we’ve ever tasted – it’s the main courses here that are the paragon of culinary delight. Both the pork loin and chicken dishes are amazingly succulent with no flavor left behind in the searing and roasting processes. (Chef Christian claims that’s all he does to these tender meats, but we’re sure there’s got to be some secret.) Both are sourced from American farms that raise their livestock sustainably, cage-free,

and without added hormones or antibiotics.

The heritage Green Circle chicken is a favorite of chefs across the country, marinated in a local citrus blend at TUR. The breast and shoulder are served on a bed of couscous cooked with Florida oranges and then further bathed in a subtly sweet labneh sauce – basically a healthier, liquidated cream cheese. The end result is a delicate journey of flavors from the sharp bite of the couscous to the creamy sweetness of the sauce, soaked up by a mouthwatering bite of tender chicken.

The pork loin is exquisite. Sourced from family farms in the Midwest courtesy of Niman Ranch, it comes covered in roasted okra with pickled mustard seeds and a honey Dijon sauce. A streak of bright orange carrot puree completes the plating, sprinkled with homemade garum, a popular umami condiment from ancient Rome that has survived to the modern day. A perfect bite of tenderloin comes with a bit of everything, the savory puree offsetting the slightly grassy flavor of the okra, garnished with micro parsley from the Harpke Family Farm in Davie.

Capping off lunch are TUR’s desserts, small scoops of sorbet or ice cream that we recommend over the Phyllo Napoleon (a pastry that adds $7 to your check) or the coffee ($3 extra for a cappuccino). The scoops are infused with flavorings that range from an understated jasmine to a powerful kiwi, a refreshing finish to a menu of warm, well-seasoned flavors. Now, you just have to return for the whole lamb on Sundays. ■

TUR KITCHEN 259 GIRALDA AVE. 786.483.8014

TOP: CHEF CHRISTIAN CHIRINO OF TUR MIDDLE: FUL MEDAMES MADE WITH HUMMUS AND PITA BREAD BOTTOM: MARINATED CHICKEN WITH CITRUS BLEND ON A BED OF COUSCOUS

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Asian Wonderland

ZITZ SUM EXPANDS THE ASIAN PALATE IN UNEXPECTED, DELIGHTFUL WAYS

BY ANDREW GAYLE

There is no sign outside the majestic 396 Alhambra building announcing the presence of Zitz Sum. There are only two huge, ornate Oz-like doors that lead to a marble-floored atrium, where a night guard will ask if you are here for the restaurant. She will direct you to a far corner of the huge entrance space.

Apparently, no signage is needed. Open the door and you enter what feels like a secret room somewhere on the outskirts of Shanghai or Singapore, or maybe Tokyo, all tables taken. The lighting is dim; a string of red Chinese lanterns frames a bar in the back, the side walls are blanketed by dark, underlit curtains, and the final wall has a mural of deep red abstractions and a Chinese crane.

This cozy venue is home to one of the Gables’ stellar chefs, Pablo Zitzmann, who recently added to his accolades (James Beard nominee, Michelin Guide awardee) recognition by The New York Times as one of the top 50 restaurants in the U.S. “We have noticed that our clientele is changing a bit, with the expectations [from the awards],” says Zitzmann. “But we haven’t lost who we are. It just gave us a push to be better.”

Our server Gabriel recommended the wonton in brodo, the dumpling, he said, “which got us on the New York Times list.” And for good reason. These are dumplings at their finest: soft fleshy dough enveloping a chewy core comprised of chicken, foie gras, ginger, and scallops. The broth, which one dining companion admired as “almost medieval,” is a Japanese miso stock with a strong parmesan-meets-seaweed flavor.

“We are Asian-inspired, and the inspired part is very important,” says Zitzmann. “We take cuisines that excite us and see them through an Asian perspective. If we go to a French restaurant and taste some-

ABOVE LEFT: FLORIDA CLAMS POACHED IN SAKE

TOP: CHEF PABLO ZITZMANN, A JAMES BEARD NOMINEE

ABOVE: ZITZ SUM’S COZY INTERIOR OPPOSITE

TOP LEFT: WONTON IN BRODO

TOP RIGHT: HOKKAIDO SCALLOPS FROM JAPAN

BOTTOM LEFT: BRAISED LAMB

BOTTOM RIGHT: SOURDOUGH PANCAKE AKA ‘BING’

ZITZ SUM

396 ALHAMBRA CIRCLE, SUITE 155 786.409.6920 ZITZSUM.COM

Photo by Rodolfo Benitez

thing delicious, or we are craving Italian food and want that emphasis, we take an Asian lens to it without going into ‘fusion’ cuisine.”

The result are dishes like their cold cucumber salad with avocado, Chinese Lao Gan Ma chili sauce, and Italian Stracciatella cheese; a gustatory playground of crunchy cucumber and chewy cheese lacquered in chili sauce and Thai basil oil. Or their bao bun, a Shanghai-style wrap of dough enclosing shredded, smoked lamb shank with Greek cardamom and cumin and Japanese shawarma spices, and paired with an herbal chutney green sauce and lemony labneh Greek yogurt sauce for dipping. Both add a cool contrast to the dark, richer flavor of the lamb.

Chef Zitzmann, former proprietor of the No Name Chinese restaurant in South Miami, opened Zitz Sum in 2021. As a pop-up, it originally specialized in dumplings, the art of which he mastered during the pandemic shutdown, offering them first as take-out. (“Dumplings travel well,” he noted.) Now, nearly two years after his quiet launch, Zitzmann has gone well beyond the dumpling. On the current menu – and it does change – dumplings make up just four of the 17 selections (two of which are desserts). Instead, you have a half dozen inventive items in the Raw & Small section, with heavier entrees in the Konro Grill section.

It’s hard to go wrong with any choice. We tried the Florida

clams poached in sake, what Zitzmann calls a “Spanish-inspired” dish with Asian ingredients. Each clam sits on a half shell in a broth made from sake, butter, cream, and vinegar, adorned with smoked trout row (ikura) and dried shavings of Ibérico ham. The creamy broth is sweetly succulent, the clams sea-salty, and the ham (fed on acorns) nicely nutty. It was so toothsome we wouldn’t let the waiter remove the broth, saving it to be soaked up by one of the house favorites: the Bing.

“Bing” is Cantonese for bread, and it’s a soft, deliciously warm loaf made daily from Zitzmann’s sourdough starter, then grilled with butter and salt and served with a dip of whipped butter, orange mangrove honey, and miso seaweed paste for the umami flavor. We would have been happy eating just that, but of course Zitzmann had more up his sleeve, like a crudo of Hokkaido scallops from Japan (with white soy sauce, fried capers, peeled tomatoes, and cucumber slices) and an impressive Nimen Ranch rib eye steak cooked with shitake mushrooms and a reduced black pepper bordelaise.

The wait staff, young and dressed in black, is efficient and knowledgeable, and the music a dreamy flow of Asian house and jazz that is unpretentious and soothing. Like Zitz Sum, it embraces a subtle, comfortable backdrop to taste sensations that are unexpected and delightful. ■

St. Patrick’s Day Drinks

This year, St. Patrick’s Day takes place on a Friday, March 17. That’s good news for anyone who otherwise would have to go to work the next day. Here are some choices for drinks and fun:

JOHN MARTIN’S

YARD HOUSE

This year for St. Patty’s Day, Yard House is serving up specialty drinks, including green beer and Jameson Mules, and an Irish-inspired menu all day long. Perfect for those who want to celebrate without mixing with the big crowds at an outdoor festival. 320 San Lorenzo Ave.

BAY 13 BREWERY AND KITCHEN

To celebrate the luck of the Irish – and the Australians – Australian brewpub Bay 13 is releasing a new and improved beer on St Patty’s Day: The Irwin, named after the legendary conservationist

Christmas BITES / EVENTS

Steve Irwin, who happened to be of Irish descent. The Irish red ale has gone through many iterations at Bay 13 throughout the years and is known for its unique toffee and caramel flavoring. All beers, including The Irwin, will be half-off from 4 to 6 pm. 65 Alhambra Plaza.

Explore $795 airfare or a $500 per person air credit 46 coralgablesmagazine.com

Experience the Christmas dream of a lifetime aboard Emerald Cruises’ award-winning Emerald Sun. Sail through Germany’s beloved wine regions, visit the enchanting spa town of Baden-Baden and witness the fairytale streets of Kehl come to life with holiday cheer. Explore a Christmas excursion like no other highlighted by guided tours of Strasbourg and Breisach. Savor the treasure trove of postcard-worthy vistas across the region’s many iconic Christmas locations on a luxurious holiday adventure you’ll never forget. Your next Christmas adventure sets sail on November 28, 2023.

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

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

305.439.8311

mauricio@miamisignaturehomes.com MiamiSignatureHomes.com

Happy, Happy Hour

Over the last year, prices have risen everywhere as inflation has crept up on the country. Coral Gables has been no exception. Except that is, for one Brazilian oasis on Ponce de Leon Boulevard. It appears inflation simply has not hit Fogo de Chão.

Is there anywhere else in Coral Gables – nay, in all of Miami –where you can get an $8 gourmet burger nowadays? Or six empanadas for $5? How about an inexpensive plate of hummus? It’s $10 at KAIA Greek or $8.50 at Sawa – or $5 at Fogo de Chão. We don’t know how they do it, but the Brazilian temple of meat has, by far, the best prices we’ve seen in the Gables in a long time, even for a happy hour.

In addition to food specials (available in the bar and patio Monday through Friday 4:30-6:30 pm), the restaurant also has an all-day happy hour drinks menu, which consists mostly of variations on Brazil’s national drink, the caipirinha. There are also South American wines for $7 and $5 beers (Stella and Xingu Black).

The caipirinhas are exquisite, made with lime, sugar, and cachaça, a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice. It is only produced in Brazil and has a flavor profile adjacent to a blanco tequila crossed with rum. The lime is muddled with granulated sugar, which releases the juice from the lime and the oils from the aromatic peel. During happy hour at Fogo, there’s the traditional drink as well as two variations, one with passionfruit and the other with strawberry and hibiscus. All are deceptively simple yet strong and tangy with a sour bite to them – and a steal at $9. – Kylie Wang

PASSIONFRUIT CAIPIRINHA AND THE STRAWBERRY CAIPIRINHA, MADE WITH LIME, SUGAR, AND CACHAÇA, A DISTILLED SPIRIT MADE FROM FERMENTED SUGARCANE JUICE IN BRAZIL.

Thank You for Your Support

I am deeply honored to serve a second term as Coral Gables mayor. You can rest assured I will keep working for residents and protecting our quality of life. I pledge to:

 Maintain “Open Door” Fridays to listen to citizens’ concerns

 Keep our police, fire, emergency and waste services the best in Miami-Dade

 Manage traffic and promote transportation options

 Support and expand green spaces

 Encourage sustainability and environmental efforts

Together we will continue to keep Coral Gables a model of excellence for cities throughout the county, state and nation.

VOTE, CORAL GABLES

DID YOU KNOW THERE ARE THREE WAYS TO VOTE IN THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES?

Remember that for Coral Gables city elections you will be able to vote or drop-off your mail-in ballot early, at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive. These options afford you ample time and opportunity to cast your ballot. If you’re not able to vote early, you may vote by mail in addition to in-person precinct voting on the day of the election.

Important Dates

Tuesday, April 11 General Election

Tuesday, April 25 Runoff Election

On these dates, you vote at your assigned precinct.

You can vote early or drop-off your mail-in ballot at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive

General Election Early Voting

Saturday, April 1: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 2: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 8: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Runoff Election Early Voting

Saturday, April 22: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 23: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

For more information, call 305-460-5210 or visit www.coralgables.com/elections

WAYS TO VOTE

People

Photo by Tiege Dolly

Featuring:

Chris Bart-Williams

Cristina M. Suárez

Marcus Sharf

MARCUS SHARF, RIGHT, AND HIS BUSINESS PARTNER, YURIY KOLESNYK

Chris Bart-Williams

Chris Bart-Williams found soccer at seven, just a few years after moving to England from Sierra Leone at the age of four. At 15, he signed with Leyton Orient and went on to play his first professional game in a preseason friendly against Chelsea (in his words, “basically a very big deal”) before he was traded to Sheffield Wednesday in 1991. After a successful 31-year career in the Premiership, the soccer star retired from playing and launched his coaching career. He moved to South Florida in 2019 after coaching collegiate American women’s teams alongside legendary coach Tony DiCicco.

In a twist of fate, Bart-Williams moved in next door to City Commissioner Kirk Menendez and discovered he had played against the commissioner’s son while in a coaching position several years prior. Familiar with the coach’s skill, Menendez encouraged him to apply for the coaching job at the Coral Gables Soccer Academy. Bart-Williams accepted and has spent the last several years rebuilding the program at the Youth Center from the ground up in the wake of the pandemic.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

The Coral Gables Soccer Academy has expanded to include over 20 families throughout the community. The program is rigorous, meant to provide support to kids who aspire to play not just for their middle and high schools but also on a collegiate or even professional level. Bart-Williams has worked to make sure the Academy is a well-rounded mentoring experience designed “specifically for the Gables community,” and encourages accountability and responsibility for players at all levels.

WHAT HE SAYS

“I think the strength of the program will be its focus on developing the Coral Gables community and providing opportunities for kids and families with aspirations to reach their full potential in the sport,” says Bart-Williams. “For me, the excitement lies in building something special and unique for a community that is itself very unique. As a former resident [he moved from Menendez’s street to Coconut Grove], I appreciate all that the community has to offer and now I have the opportunity to work with these amazing kids and families and create a pipeline. It’s truly wonderful and the end result is going to be amazing.”

Photo by Tiege Dolly

HEAD COACH, CORAL GABLES SOCCER ACADEMY

“FOR ME, THE EXCITEMENT LIES IN BUILDING SOMETHING SPECIAL AND UNIQUE...”

People who love Coral Gables support Alex Bucelo

WHY? BECAUSE ALEX HAS THE ENERGY AND COMMITMENT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. He listens, values perspectives and works to develops strategies that make sense. He is dedicated to maintaining the family-friendly quality of life in the city where he was born and raised.

“Alex and I ran against each other for a city commission seat in 2021. During the campaign I got to know Alex — the person, not just the candidate. He is fair-minded, compassionate and of unwavering strength of character. He’s even a former Youth Center kid like me.

Alex embodies the core values that I was raised under and that our community is based upon. I trust Alex will serve our entire community selflessly and hold true to our city’s history and mission as we all move forward, together.” — Commissioner Kirk Menendez JOIN THE MANY CORAL GABLES RESIDENTS WHO ARE ALL IN FOR ALEX!

Alex Bucelo, Candidate for Coral Gables Commissioner

Commissioner Kirk Menendez

Cristina M. Suárez

A graduate of Florida International University’s College of Law, Cristina Suárez is a practicing lawyer with a wide range of accomplishments, including serving as deputy city attorney of Coral Gables for five years. Her law career first began as an associate attorney in private practice, focusing on international commercial disputes and financial services litigation before she began working with the City in 2016 as assistant city attorney. She has been awarded by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce as an “Up & Comer” in its Business Leadership Awards and was named one of “Florida’s Rising Stars” on the Super Lawyers list from 2013 to 2016. She is also a member of the Coral Gables and Cuban American Bar Associations and serves as the editor of “The Agenda,” a Florida Bar newsletter.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

After former City Attorney Miriam Ramos stepped down from the position in January, Suárez was unanimously elected by the City Commission to take over that post. The former deputy city attorney will serve as the chief legal officer for the city, providing legal opinions and interpretations of the law while also supervising both in-house and outside counsel. As city attorney, she will manage a team of lawyers doing everything from drafting legislation to reviewing contracts to prosecuting on behalf of Coral Gables. “Cristina is an outstanding lawyer,” says Mayor Vince Lago. “I look forward to working with her in her new leadership role.”

“This is the biggest professional accomplishment of my career by far,” Suárez says. “I’ve worked on such a variety of different matters in the city, I feel like I’ve really gotten to know the different departments and their functions, and so being able to serve as general counsel to the city is really a source of pride for me. I’m excited to serve the commission in this new role and help them further their initiatives. I just hope that I can continue to do my part to make the city even better and more beautiful.”

CORAL GABLES CITY ATTORNEY

WHAT SHE SAYS

“ I’M EXCITED TO SERVE THE COMMISSION IN THIS NEW ROLE AND HELP THEM FURTHER THEIR INITIATIVES.”

SUÁREZ AND FAMILY AT HER SWEARING-IN

Marcus Sharf

OWNER, HŸP MIAMI

As the founder of “futuristic” sneaker store HŸP Miami, University of Miami sophomore Marcus Sharf unloads anywhere from two to 100 sneaker boxes daily into his Coconut Grove shop. Sharf began selling shoes in 2017 and opened a warehouse in his hometown of Furlong, Pennsylvania in 2021. Instead of selling on eBay or other online sales platforms, he decided to build relationships with shoe retailers, and now targets his fellow students as customers who are looking for a combination of variety and affordability in the sneaker market. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

The 19-year-old student opened HŸP Miami last August at 3208 Grand Ave. with his business partner, Yuriy Kolesnyk. The store earns nearly $100,000 in monthly revenue and stocks all the latest high-end customer pleasers – Air Jordans, Yeezys, and New Balances – as well as designer clothing and accessories. The sneaker and streetwear store’s name is pronounced “hype,” named after the “hypebeast” sneaker and fashion market that has propelled the business. Sharf and Kolesnyk are already looking to expand to a larger retail space.

WHAT HE SAYS

“I definitely have, over time, established a lot of connections that allow me to purchase products — the hottest stuff that’s available at certain prices,” says the UM student. “So, I’m able to source that, either from the secondary market or from the retailers themselves sometimes. All sneakers are pretty accessible… It just depends on how much of a premium you have to pay. I’d rather pay more of a premium to get the product here and make less of a profit just to have the variety for the customers.”

Photo by Tiege Dolly

“ I’D RATHER PAY MORE OF A PREMIUM TO GET THE PRODUCT HERE AND MAKE LESS OF A PROFIT JUST TO HAVE THE VARIETY...”

Cosmetic Facial Surgery

What the years have taught me

1. Less is More: Most patients with aging are bothered by their neck and jowls, as well as a tired eye appearance. Focusing the surgery on these areas serves most patients well and avoids an ‘overdone’ look. Most don’t need a brow lift or full face lasers.

2. Respect anatomy: The face droops as it ages, at multiple levels. Surgery has to lift saggy areas back into their previously normal position. This is done by tightening slack infrastructure and removing loose skin. Incisions are hidden along anatomic lines.

3. Use tension judiciously: Too much tension and the face looks pulled, too little and slack remains or recurs quickly. Most negatives in facelifts are caused by excessive tension.

4. Skin doesn’t hold up the face: Skin’s function is to cover the face. It’s the infrastructure’s job to hold up the face. Pulling tight on the skin to lift the face creates distortion, poor scars and the obvious result most people don’t like.

5. Not easy: Facelift surgery takes years to learn. It is complex and challenging. The stakes are high - it’s your face! It requires intense focus and attention to numerous details over several hours to create a result that looks natural, pleasing and can’t be spotted. To produce optimal results, the surgeon must be in excellent shape, both physically and mentally, as should be the patient.

6. Facelifts are powerful: They add a lot as they focus on the core of facial aging. But judiciously restoring lost facial volume and treating lines with fillers (or fat) is also important even though it won’t substitute for a facelift despite how much we would like it to. Further, careful use of Botox®, is beneficial to enhance overall appearance.

7. Facelifts can’t do it all: A professionally designed skincare program, including a daily sunscreen, as well as an experienced cosmetic dermatologist, are a big plus for the full package. And, of course, a healthy lifestyle!

Stephan

SPRING FORWARD

This year, it’s all about light fabrics and the right color

BY GABRIELLE LORD

Spring is in the air! It’s time to kick off those leather pants, throw that shearling jacket aside, and embrace the bright and breezy trends of the new season. From lightweight luxury fabrics to bold gem tones, Spring 2023 is the sartorial refresh we’ve been waiting for.

Sustainable, timeless, and – perhaps most importantly – breathable, linen is this season’s staple fabric. Derived from the flax plant, linen dates back thousands of years and was once used as currency in ancient Egypt, where it was considered a symbol of purity, wealth, and light. Back then, the textile was crucial in the mummification process; today, linen is thought to be more of a fashion statement, synonymous with the phrase “tropical formal.” Used for suits and dresses

alike, the high-end fabric is perfect for virtually any occasion, from a beach picnic or a destination wedding.

But fabric isn’t the only thing to consider when rebuilding a warm-weather wardrobe; color is just as important. Reminiscent of summer skies and ocean waters, indigo blue is Italy’s color of the season, according to the cognoscenti at 120% Lino in the Shops at Merrick Park. The piercing blue is frequently paired with neutral colors like white, beige, and grey. Muted orange is another stand-out color this season, complementary to warm skin tones and often seen with hues of blue and green.

If you’re curious as to how these trends could fit into your daily ensemble, our spring looks have got you covered.

VIX PAULA HERMANNY

Opposite page: The art of accessorizing is a balancing act between the amount of fabric and the amount of skin shown. Here, philanthropist and businesswoman Alina Meledina of AGK Realty finds that balance, coupling the simplistic Kiana dress in tamale cactus green ($298) with the gold Gancho necklace ($248) to create a look fit for spring or summer travels.

This page: Playing with unique cut-outs and strap placements, this muted camel orange Mag One Piece ($218) from ViX gives glimpses of skin without revealing too much. Keeping with the fashionable new theme of cutting-edge minimalism, Alina Meledina completes the swimready look with ViX’s Natural Bucket Hat ($128) and sunglasses by Celine.

370 San Lorenzo Ave #2422 (Shops at Merrick Park)

Stylist: Luca Mencarini

Photos by Luca Mencarini & Lola Green

120% LINO

A bold twist on the standard black and white suit, Senior Vice President at PNC Bank Miami Diego Polenghi takes on Italy’s color of the season, indigo blue, for a look in linen that transcends many occasions. Layering shades of blue for a chic monochromatic moment, he pairs 120% Lino’s indigo pant ($365) with its matching jacket ($795), a navy braided belt ($150), and Camoscio Notte dress shoes ($295).

342 San Lorenzo Ave #1025 (Shops at Merrick Park)

Location: Los Trompos art exhibition at the Shops at Merrick Park

Photo by Rodolfo Benitez

MAYDA CISNEROS

Realtor Ashley Cusack wows in “The Ashley Dress,” a neon liquid organza dress designed by Mayda Cisneros. Featuring an unmistakable spring color palette, the dress is complemented by Montica Jewelry’s gold butterfly bracelet made up of 8.75 carats of lab-grown diamonds ($9,500), gold bangles with five rows of 3.72 carats of diamonds ($18,000), another set of gold bangles with 12 rows of 8.72 carats of diamonds ($37,000), and 3.29-3.45 carat diamond hoop earrings ($7,600).

maydacisneros.com

Location: The Biltmore Hotel

Stylist: Leanela at Rik Rak Salon

Photo by Rodolfo Benitez

THE TOUR OF KITCHENS

TOP: Foundation President & CEO Mary Snow, with Marielena Villamil and Molly Gail

MIDDLE: Foundation Board Member Matthew Meehan, with Foundation Board Chair Venny Torre and his wife Coco Torre

BOTTOM: Foundation Board Member Aura Reinhardt with Event Volunteers Manager Jackie Kellogg

ABOVE: Zaria Walter, Vicky Hucks, Mary Ann Griese, Cia Mackle, and Denie Harris

The Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Tour of Kitchens, now in its 14th year, has become a Gables signature lifestyle experience. This year’s February tour was kicked off by Celebrity Chef Donatella Arpaia, the new culinary force behind NOMA Beach at Redfish, and included visits to 10 homes in the Gables. Years built ranged from 1938 to 2021, with locations from Venetia Avenue in the north to Santurce Avenue in the south. All were volunteered by their residents for public viewing by more than 800 visitors who attended this year, helping raise funds for the culinary program at Coral Gables High School and for the Foundation’s Commu-

nity Giving and Scholarships programs. In addition to the 10 homes, two other locations – the Belmont Village Discovery Center and The Village at Coral Gables –provided bites and beverages, along with two dozen food stations provided by local restaurants such as Clutch Burger, TUR Kitchen, La Taberna Giralda, Threefold Café, Mamey by Niven Patel, and Vinya Table. A stunning array of sponsors also participated, from Mosaicist, MG Developer, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, and EWM Realty to Coral Gables Trust, Baptist Health South Florida, and Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables. Here we present the kitchens from four of the homes.

This year’s event saw the return of a small army of “tourists”

2521 ANDERSON RD

The three-story townhome of Joy Spillis Lundeen was built in 2019 and sits in the middle of the Beatrice Row, a project of MG Developer that won the Addison Mizner Award by the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art. The kitchen and dining area of the residence share one large space, adjacent to the exterior terrace with its outdoor kitchen area. Features include a six-burner range with single oven below; Thermador microwave, refrigerator, and freezer; Miele combi-steam oven; stainless steel sinks by Elkay and Kohler; and an outdoor grill with double gas burners by Fire Magic.

411 PALERMO AVE

This single-story home of Joshua Brandfon and Alyssa Krop-Brandfon was built in 1948, but renovated and expanded during the last two years by Debowsky Design Group. The new indoor and outdoor kitchens were created to provide easy access to varied living and dining areas. The indoor cooktop, undercounter ovens, and microwave are all by Wolf, with a Sub-Zero side-by-side refrigerator-freezer and an integrated dishwasher by Bosch. The outdoor kitchen uses a DCS grill and side burners, a Delta undercounter refrigerator, and a granite countertop from Doral Stone.

6201 RIVIERA DR

Built in 1955, this single-story residence is the home of Laurie Weiss Nuell, who purchased the home in 2009 and decided last year to renovate the kitchen. A large central island now defines the space with its dual-level Quartzite countertop surface, while the perimeter is surrounded by custom wood cabinets painted in dark blue and white. Among the appliances are a six-burner gas cooktop and a French door refrigerator-freezer by Jenn Air; double ovens by Viking; a stainless-steel deep double-bowl sink by Ruvati Sinks; and a stainless-steel exhaust hood by Vent-a-Hood.

Generation 7000

BRING YOUR VISION TO US

The experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are. Any project, any style, any dream—bring your inspiration to fruition at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. Visit fergusonshowrooms.com to discover more and find your nearest showroom.

5015 ORDUNA DR

This home, built in 1951, abuts one of the original 1925 Coral Gables canals, designed by city founder George Merrick to create an “American Venice.” The freestanding island with a honed Carrara marble countertop is surrounded by custom cabinets in oak laminate finish, made and installed by Hölz Home Design. The kitchen and surrounding rooms have wood plank flooring of white oak. Appliances include a six-burner electric cooktop by Kitchen Aid; an under-counter [island] wine cooler by Newair; and double ovens and French door refrigerator-freezer by LG.

The Lapidus Legacy

HOW THE POST-MODERN WORK OF MIMO ARCHITECT MORRIS LAPIDUS – KNOWN FOR THE FONTAINEBLEAU AND EDEN ROC ON MIAMI BEACH – MADE ITS MARK IN CORAL GABLES

BY GINA GUILFORD / PHOTOS BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

“ I WANTED TO CREATE A FEELING OF LIGHT AND WELCOME TO THE RELIGIOUS, SOCIAL, AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES WHICH MAKE TEMPLE JUDEA A COMPLETE CENTER OF ACTIVITY FOR THE ENTIRE CONGREGATION. ”

Phineas Paist, Denman Fink, Walter de Garmo – these iconic names are synonymous with Coral Gables’ brand of Mediterranean architecture. But Morris Lapidus, the King of MiMo whose ground-breaking designs transformed Miami Beach’s resort industry? Believe it or not, this Beaux Artstrained architect, who shocked critics with his over-the-top, opulent style, designed four buildings in the reserved and tasteful City Beautiful.

The first building Lapidus designed in Coral Gables was Temple Judea. A Reform Temple, it was the first Jewish temple to be built in the city. It was completed in 1966 and designated a Local Historic Landmark by the City of Coral Gables in 2013.

According to Deborah Desilets, one of Lapidus’ collaborators, the Jewish community was very proud of Lapidus, a Ukrainian Jew, so he was a natural choice to design the building. There was also a connection through the president of Temple Judea, Joseph Krefetz, recalls Lenore Kipper, the widow of the congregation’s rabbi at the

time. Krefetz was from New York City, where Lapidus’s architectural firm started before opening offices in Miami Beach.

When Lapidus was hired as Temple Judea’s architect, he was best known for his theatrical designs in resort hotels, most notably the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc. The unorthodox designs of these Miami Beach jaw-droppers were meant to evoke awe and wonder, two emotions compatible with the new religious center.

“Through the thousands of years that the Jewish people have built their temples of worship… the basic emotional impact was something that architects and designers were always striving to achieve through the use of brick, mortar, wood, and stone,” said Lapidus. “I wanted to create a feeling of light and welcome to the religious, social and educational facilities which make Temple Judea a complete center of activity for the entire congregation.”

Rabbi Kipper rejected the original drawings, however, claiming they looked “too much like a motel.” Lapidus quick-

MORRIS LAPIDUS, ARCHITECT OF TEMPLE JUDEA AT 5500 GRANADA BLVD., SHOWN OPPOSITE.

ly submitted new plans for the structure; this was typical of the way he worked, in collaboration with input from his clients. In fact, one of the most distinctive features of Temple Judea – entrance arches – was inspired by Rabbi Kipper’s vision of a modern synagogue. “A synagogue, not a temple, should represent three main ideas,” he said at the time. “It should be a House of Worship, a House of Study, and a House of Assembly.” The result: three compressed arches, the signature feature of Temple Judea, which are used in their logo today.

According to Lenore Kipper, Lapidus wanted Temple Judea to be “a good neighbor” and, as such, designed to complement the modern architecture on the University of Miami campus, located across US-1. Despite several renovations (the first done by Lapidus himself), the building still retains the distinguishing characteristics of MiMo style and is an excellent example of postmodern architecture in Coral Gables.

Two years later, in 1968, Lapidus designed his second building in Coral Gables,

the headquarters for the Junior Chamber International. Located across from the Youth Center at 440 University Drive, it was described by one Coral Gables resident attending a zoning hearing as resembling “a spaceship that landed in the middle of Coral Gables.”

One reason the building looked out of place amid the Gables’ Mediterranean Revival architecture is that it was not supposed to be here. Lapidus’ architectural firm won an international competition to design the J.C.I. Headquarters for a site on Miami Beach. When that site became unavailable, a group from Coral Gables – including Mayor C.L. “Jerry” Dressel, Coral Gables Commissioner Philbrick, and a number of Jaycee members – traveled to the J.C.I.’s annual meeting in Toronto to pitch the idea of making the City Beautiful its new home.

While the J.C.I. Headquarters (called its Secretariat) did indeed move to Coral Gables, the original design remained, with some revisions. Soon after it was permitted for construction, a request to add two ad-

ditional floors was approved, allowing construction of the five-story building standing today. The J.C.I. Secretariat was completed and officially dedicated, with several dignitaries in attendance, in June of 1969.

Desiliets takes issue with the comparison of the building to a spaceship, describing it instead as a “jazzed up palace.” “He’s having fun with the rhythm,” she adds, about the impressive building, describing it as “a real jewel” where rectangular shapes are repeated throughout.

In 2001, J.C.I Headquarters decided to “return to its roots,” sold the building, and moved its headquarters to St. Louis, Missouri. The building was re-zoned from nonprofit to commercial use, and now houses a variety of corporate offices. It was designated a Historic Landmark by the city in 2006. Shortly afterwards, the interior of the building was redone by designer Jeff Howard, in a style that was an homage to Lapidus.

The two other buildings by Lapidus in the Gables were designed in the ‘70s for the University of Miami campus. The first was

HEADQUARTERS FOR THE JUNIOR CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL. 440 UNIVERSITY DRIVE

Gusman Concert Hall.

The funds to build Gusman Concert Hall were donated by Maurice Gusman, a wealthy South Florida financier. While he’d been a patron of the University of Miami for more than two decades, according to his granddaughter, Jackie Gusman Thayer, the reason he donated the funds was personal. “He was good friends with President Stanford and wanted to do something nice as a gift to the University of Miami,” she explained.

Pre-Adrienne Arsht, the Gusman Concert Hall was the first in the Greater Miami area specifically designed for musical performances. At the press conference where Gusman announced his $1 million donation, Stanford praised the donation, noting that for years the UM music school had “no adequate place to perform” the more than fifty concerts given each year. Concertgoers were frequently turned away for lack of seating.

Gusman gave the job to Lapidus, having previously worked with him in converting the Olympia Theatre in Downtown

Miami into the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts. Lapidus then hired Cyril M. Harris – named an “acoustic virtuoso” by Time magazine – as the acoustics consultant. The new concert hall would seat 600 people with state-of-the art sound and recording equipment.

The project ran $1.5 million over budget and took more than two years longer than originally planned. Gusman kicked in the $1 million shortfall and an anonymous donor financed the Hall’s $118,000 recording system. Gusman Concert Hall opened on January 31, 1975, with a series of dedicatory concerts performed that weekend, including one commissioned by President Stanford and composed by William F. Lee III, the Dean of the School of Music. “I am told this is the best concert hall anywhere in the country. What makes it so special is that we have our own ingenious architect, Morris Lapidus,” said Gusman at the time.

The last structure Lapidus designed in Coral Gables was a four-story addition to the Meyer Law Library, also on the UM

GUSMAN CONCERT HALL. UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. 1314 MILLER DRIVE

“ I AM TOLD THIS IS THE BEST CONCERT HALL ANYWHERE IN THE COUNTRY. WHAT MAKES IT SO SPECIAL IS THAT WE HAVE OUR OWN INGENIOUS ARCHITECT, MORRIS LAPIDUS. ”

MAURICE GUSMAN, SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIER AND UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PATRON

campus. The addition was needed to create space for more volumes of books, faculty offices, classrooms, and seminar rooms. The other goal was to create a library that would create a more inviting study atmosphere for the school’s 1,100 law students.

The new structure cost $1.6 million to build, and was made possible, in part, by a $600,000 gift by the late Baron de Hirsch Meyer, a UM Trustee and law school benefactor for whom the library is named. It was supposed to be completed by August 1975, but this target proved elusive. The completion was delayed by design changes, an iron worker’s strike, and various building issues. Law School Dean Soia Mentschikoff, who met weekly with Lapidus and the construction firm, pushed to get the library completed in time for Christmas recess, thus allowing law students a place to study for upcoming exams.

Law students, their spouses, library staff, and professors spent evenings and weekends moving books into the new library to help meet the deadline. The Meyer Law

Library officially opened on December 17, 1975, with a dedication ceremony at Gusman Hall attended by over 400 people. While the champagne reception was originally to be a private party held in the new library, Dean Mentschicoff changed the plan to include all law students, many of whom had helped make the opening possible.

According to the Miami Herald: “With the completion of this addition, the Law School is closer to being the ‘tower of excellence’ envisioned by the Dean and President Stanford.” With its opening, it became the largest law library in the Southeast and third largest in the country.

The architecture of the Law Library is rather stripped down in comparison to Lapidus’ typically embellished style. But the reading room, with its large open windows and tall egg crate ceilings, is a stunning focal point. According to UM Law Librarian Bill Latham, this area is a major selling point for potential law students touring the campus.

Desilets recalls walking onto campus with Lapidus in preparation for a lecture

he was scheduled to give in 2001. “It’s still a handsome building,” he remarked, as they walked past the UM law library.

Lapidus died shortly afterwards at 98-years-old, leaving his legacy as Master of MiMo intact in numerous buildings throughout the world. Here in the Gables, he joins the list of iconic architects who have left their unique imprint. Known as the “Architect of Joy,” his focus in designing buildings was to engage the human element with the philosophy that people come first. “We spend 90 percent of our time in buildings,” he once said. “Architecture matters.” ■

A special thanks to those who contributed to this article, either with interviews, source material or vital information: Georgina A. Angones, Joe Greenberg, Zeke Guilford, Ricardo Herran, Lenore Kipper, Bill Latham, Robin Schard, Dona Spain, Jackie Gusman Thayer, and especially Deborah Desilets.

MEYER LAW LIBRARY. UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI. 1311 MILLER DRIVE

Photo by Gina Guilford

LEADING LAWYERS OF CORAL GABLES

Profiles of Top Attorneys in the City Beautiful

A Firm that Fights for the Rights of Local Residents

Randy Weber founded Weber Law Firm in 1998. His wife, Rosanna Molinari Weber, helped him establish Weber Law Firm but did not join him until 2007. The Webers moved to Coral Gables in 2003 and have built a personal injury practice serving the Coral Gables Community and its surrounding neighborhoods since then. The Webers joined forces with their office suite mates, Skip Pita and Shannon Del Prado, and together formed Pita Weber Del Prado October 1, 2015. Skip and Shannon are also a husband and wife team focusing their practice on personal injury, wrongful death and medical malpractice.

At Pita Weber Del Prado we work closely with families whose lives have been devastated by an injury or the death of a loved one as a result of someone else’s negligence. One thing that sets us apart from many other personal injury firms is that our focus is on the victim and their family, not just the financial recovery we work tirelessly to get for them. Some firms love to advertise about how big they are or brag about the amount of money they collected. At Pita Weber Del Prado we never forget that our most important role is to listen, guide and assist our clients through the incredibly difficult time they often face after an injury or the death of a loved one. Yes, we work to obtain a large financial recovery for our clients but what makes us proud of what we do and fills our hearts is the long term relationships we build with our clients through the process of representing them. A large part of new cases we get are referred to us by existing clients or prior clients. Another large part of our cases are referred to us by other lawyers in our community.

Lawyers refer to us because they trust that we will represent our clients with integrity, compassion and respect. And, of course, seek to obtain a fair recovery for each client. There is no bigger compliment than to get referrals from clients or other lawyers.

Pita Weber Del Prado was the recipient of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Law Firm Diamond Award in 2020 and Outstanding Family-Owned Business in 2022. Pita Weber Del Prado is a proud Trustee Member of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and Rosanna Molinari Weber is currently serving her first term on its Board of Directors. Randy Weber is a member of the Coral Gables Bar Association. During the weekend you can often find the Webers walking around with their 2 dogs, Daisy and Dawg, on Miracle Mile, Giralda or at the Coral Gables Market in front of City Hall.

Skip Pita, Shannon Del Prado, Rosanna Molinari Weber and Randy Weber

When you’re facing challenges, look to ALGO for solutions.

ALGO Law Firm is a concierge law firm with its headquarters located in Coral Gables and led by our founder and managing partner, Ignacio Alvarez.

Ignacio is an honorably retired law enforcement executive who is currently a civil litigator with broad experience in discreet internal corporate investigations and crisis management, corporate governance, business disputes, and international regulatory compliance matters. While rising through the ranks over his 25+ years of service, he attended Shepard Broad College of Law at Nova Southeastern University. Now with over 15 years as an attorney, paired with his extremely unique skill set in law enforcement, Ignacio provides incredible insight from both sides of the law.

The ALGO Experience: We are NOT your traditional law firm. We don’t believe in rinse and repeat one-size-fits-all solutions. We take extra measures to ensure that we listen to your needs and develop a master plan to tackle any obstacle in the best way possible.

We believe in transparency, so we will often provide a flat fee structure outlining the specific services you would receive. Our fee structure is designed to control skyrocketing litigation costs and protect your bottom line (you’ll never see a “surprise” bill from us).

Regardless of whether you’re an individual, family, business of any size, or public sector organization, we make it a priority to understand the desired outcome you are hoping for. That way we can tailor a strategy and custom solutions just for you to help you get to the best path possible.

Our diverse team of professionals and executives bring unmatched perspectives and expertise to pioneer solutions to your toughest legal challenges. As an example, our COO, Ashley Airaghi, is not an attorney but she brings to the table over 15+ years of experience consulting for major retailers in consumer products, top manufacturing facilities in North America, first time entrepreneurs, and everything in between. She served as the Southeastern U.S. President of the world’s largest and most successful angel investment group, Keiretsu Forum, which poised her for providing counsel to our corporate clients specifically looking for help in the areas of investment, company growth, due diligence, and M&A. She was also part of the launch team at StartUP FIU. Her superpower is bridging the gap between business and law to get results in the most efficient way possible.

Our first priority is figuring out your desired outcome and working to make sure you are happy.

Ignacio Alvarez

Advocates for the American Dream®

NERO Immigration Law in Coral Gables is celebrating it’s 14th year in business. Deirdre Nero started the firm after having practiced in two larger law firms, both in Coral Gables. The practice focuses on all types of business immigration matters, including employment-based immigrant (permanent residency) and nonimmigrant (temporary) visa petitions. Deirdre has extensive experience with PERM labor certification applications, employer immigration compliance, and family immigration matters and naturalizations.

At the firm, Deirdre and her team work closely with small- and medium-sized companies as well as individual clients to coordinate and execute all aspects of the client’s immigration strategy, and to represent them in front of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the U.S. Department of State. At NERO Immigration Law our slogan is “Advocates for the American Dream” because we believe that Immigration Built this Nation. We take great pride in helping people from all around the world achieve their goals and dreams in the United States.

We are a trustworthy and honest firm that provides personalized, high-quality service. We do not provide cookie cutter solutions; we provide individualized, creative, well thought-out strategies to help clients achieve their short- and long-term goals. We truly care about our clients, their families, and their businesses. We are passionate about advocating for our clients and helping them navigate the ever-changing landscape of immigration law. Our clients love how we work hand-in-hand with them to get the results they need. We represent clients in all 50 states and from countries around the globe, and we take great pride in maintaining a very high success rate, even in these uncertain times.

With 20 years of immigration law experience under her belt, Deirdre Nero is a seasoned speaker and highly effective advocate for both immigration law and her non-profit, the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. She was recently chosen as the Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2019 AXA Businesswoman of the Year Awards. Deirdre is AV rated by Martindale Hubble for the past nine years, and serves on the boards of local, national, and international organizations.

2100 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Ste. 1180 Coral Gables, FL 33134

Phone 305.351.1079

info@neroimmigration.com | www.neroimmigration.com @ neroimmigration.com

We help you navigate the maze of complex rules and regulations, and make the Immigration process smooth, easy, and personalized.

Deirdre D. Nero, Esq. | Owner

Probate and Estate Planning You Can Trust

Morgan Horton Law custom designs estate plans for each client. We provide a safe place for clients to ask questions. We then prepare comprehensive summary and recommendations. Charles Morgan graduated from University of Miami School of Law, and received a Masters in Tax Law from New York University. His daughter, Laura Morgan Horton, a Coral Gables resident, is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Law. Both are members of the Orange Bowl Committee, and are rated Preeminent AV, the highest legal rating by Martindale-Hubbell for legal ability and professional excellence. Carmen Hellman graduated from Stetson Law School and focuses on administrating probate and guardianship matters.

Avoid probate. Probate is a burdensome and expensive endeavor, especially at a time when family members are grieving. Morgan Horton Law creates revocable living trusts to help clients avoid court-supervised probate administration. By providing for private management of financial and health matters, clients can maintain their privacy and avoid frozen accounts and assets. If additional protection is needed, we create trusts for special needs, trusts for minors, and life insurance trusts. Careful planning is also necessary to manage the delicate balance of competing interests when clients have blended families, in order to provide for both the children from a prior relationship and a current spouse.

Save estate taxes. Joe Robbie was founding partner of the Miami Dolphins. At his death, his estate sadly was forced to sell the team at a deep discount to pay estate taxes. We help our clients with strategies to help save these taxes. Clients can also utilize charitable gifting in their plans to benefit the causes important to them. We have facilitated charitable giving through clients’ lifetime and estate planning, giving to universities and non-profit organizations in million of dollars.

We are here for you. For forty years, Morgan Horton Law has been providing outstanding legal service in South Florida. Laura and Carmen seek to empower women to take control of their financial lives and future. Our paralegal staff offer experienced service. We treat each client with professionalism and compassion.

A person who holds assets in his/her name is subject to a long and expensive probate administration. With careful planning, probate and guardianship may be avoided.

Seating: Charles O. Morgan and Laura M. Horton.

Standing: Darcy Navas, Carmen Alpizar Hellman and Lauren Cerda

Hablamos español.

Sabrina S. Saieh

Susan S. Carlson

Deborah J. Gander

Eleni Irene Constant

Stephanie A. Casey

Aziza F. Elayan

Sabrina S. Saieh

Your Guide to Summer Camps 2023

The Importance of Summer Camp

Summer camp provides a unique opportunity for kids to get away from their screens and couches, to leap from the sedentary to the active world, and to engage with the physical universe. They also provide some of our most beloved memories, another reason why we have collected these options of local summer camps for you to send your children to. At each one your child will learn and grow, just like we did back in the days when we fit into a kids’ size life vest.

The Go-Away Camp

BY J.P. FABER

When I was a kid, my parents would send my brother and I to camp for two weeks each summer. We went to a place in Great Barrington, Massachusetts called Camp Half Moon. It was classic camp – on a lake amid rolling wooded hills, where the kids slept in bunkbed cabins and did all sorts of outdoor activities. Our camp had an underlying theme of the Native American, with archery and canoeing and handmade crafts. The entire camp “tribe” assembled for huge bonfires, ignited by a single flaming arrow shot from the woods (it was attached with eyehooks to a wire so it couldn’t miss). I wore a feather in my headband and wanted to be an “Indian” more than anything in the world.

As politically incorrect as my summer camp experience may appear from today’s vantage point, it did teach me two things. As a city

child, it exposed me to the deep, green joy of the great out-of-doors. I felt closer to the earth and nature than I ever had – like seeing a full starry sky for the first time.

I also learned the lesson my parents wanted to impart: how to be okay on my own without them nearby, to develop a sense of myself. For us kids it was a little like going to boot camp: We were each issued a trunk for our t-shirts, sneakers, underwear, and comic books, and our identities were defined by our gear and how we adapted to the daily regimen.

It was an excellent experience in self growth. Only later did I learn that our parents really just wanted a place to park us while they took road trips through Europe.

The At-Home Camp

BY KYLIE WANG

What could be more Miami than spending summer camp at the beach? As a Gables kid, my parents signed me up for various local camps, but the one I kept coming back to year after year was the Summer by the Sea – Art & Science Day Camp at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center. Located at Crandon Park on Key Biscayne, the camp was a nonstop bonanza of beach and ocean-related activities like snorkeling, kayaking, dissecting squid, and exploring the environment and its creatures.

On sunny days, we’d slog down to the beach or ride out to the mangroves to collect mini shrimp and pea puffer fish from the seaweed, learning about each animal and plant we came across. We’d take trips to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park to play on the beach or rent kayaks

and learn how to work in tandem, collecting our first sunburns – not that we ever cared. On rainy days, we’d explore the Center’s exhibits, like the touch tank, where we held spiny sea urchins in our hands for the first time. We’d ooh and ah over the bones of animals from the Bear Cut Preserve and learn how to identify turtles by shell patterns. With the innocence that comes with the childhood inability to be disgusted, we’d do and touch anything our camp counselors let us.

Summer after summer, I returned to Key Biscayne with a full bottle of sunscreen and a change of clothes, excited to see what new activity each day would hold. Seven hours later, I’d be picked up by my mother, sweaty, tanned, and teeming with excitement as I related the day’s adventure to her.

March 2023 March Dining Guide

TOP RESTAURANTS IN CORAL GABLES

Every month, we list the best restaurants in Coral Gables for your edification. What follows is our list of the best of the tried and true, and the best of the innovative and new. We dine at all locations anonymously, and we list only the places where we love to eat.

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

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

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

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

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

AMERICAN Bachour

Maybe it was the lure of pastries by world-renowned chef Antonio Bachour, but this airy, industrial-chic spot has become the new power breakfast place in town, with amazingly good eggs benedict and challah French toast. Also open for lunch and an early dinner, with great Greek salad and roast chicken breast. $$

2020 Salzedo St. 305.203.0552

Doc B’s Restaurant + Bar

Doc B’s Restaurant + Bar serves craveable American fare dishes made from scratch daily. Offering brunch, lunch, dinner, and a solid happy hour, signature dishes include the Wok Out Bowls, but our favorites are the candied bacon, the grilled artichokes, and the Southern fried chicken. $$

301 Miracle Mile. 786.864.1220

The Globe

The Globe is a Gables icon, and one of the coolest places to eat in the city – assuming you like a smart, Euro-style bistro. Decorated with classic paintings (and globes over their old-world bar), the menu is mostly American dishes – salads, burgers, fish, steaks, etc. – perfected over the years. Best conch fritters. $$ 377 Alhambra Cir. 305.445.3555

Hillstone

There are very few restaurants in the Gables where clients will wait in a line outside. Hillstone is one of them. A power lunch spot, a happy

hour singles anchor, and a family restaurant at night, the food and service are consistently top notch, with an elegant interior that is both comfortable and sophisticated at the same time. $$$

201 Miracle Mile. 305.529.0141

Orno

Located in the same building as Mamey (THēsis Hotel), Orno is Chef Niven Patel’s latest creation, focusing on “New American” cuisine with farm-to-table local produce. An eclectic menu lets Patel stretch his culinary imagination, using a wood-burning oven and a wood-burning grill. Be prepared for new and fascinating flavors. $$$

1350 S. Dixie Hwy. (THēsis Hotel) 305.667.6766

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille

The youngest entry among Coral Gables steak houses, Perry’s is a Texas chain that gets its beef from the heart of the Lone Star State. Great outdoor space with a fire pit and a huge interior with its own piano bar. The entrees are all carefully concocted, including excellent reduction sauces for the finer cuts and their famous five-finger giant pork chop that is carved at the table and can feed two. $$$$

4251 Salzedo St. (Shops at Merrick Park) 786.703.9094

Seasons 52

The restaurant for healthy eaters who enjoy quality as well. The menu, changing four times a year with each season, is always full of inventive treatments for fresh veggies, soups, and salads. Their fish and meat dishes are great values, and the flatbread menu is a nice touch. It’s a chain, but we forgive them. $$ 321 Miracle Mile. 305.442.8552

Tap 42

Tap 42 is big, noisy, and fun, with a huge island bar and lots of booths. Reliably good ribs, steaks, and burgers, plus shines in the sides

(roasted Brussels sprouts with maple mustard, truffle mac & cheese with parmesan crust). Nice random Asian dishes (grilled salmon Zen bowl, Asian coleslaw). $$-$$$ 301 Giralda Ave. 786.391.1566

Ichimi

This off-Mile eatery has developed a cult following, with diners content to stand and wait just for the opportunity to eat Ichimi’s Japanese noodles 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. $-$$

2330 Salzedo St. 305.960.7016

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 flavors. $$

157 Giralda Ave. 305.444.2397

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. $$ 90 Miracle Mile 786.558.4862

Miss Saigon

Repeatedly voted the best Vietnamese restaurant in Miami by the readers of New Times, Miss Saigon serves the kind of vegetable-rich food that makes you feel light and clean afterwards. Excellent seafood choices, and any of their crispy rolls or dumplings make great starters. Their clear, hearty soups – what they call Pho – are the big winners here. $$

148 Giralda Ave. 305.446.8006

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’s campus. $-$$

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

LUCA OSTERIA

BACHOUR

biryanis. Our favorite is the mango curry chicken, followed by the chef’s special black pepper shrimp. $$

221 Navarre Ave. 786.534.2161

Zitz Sum

Brought to you by Chef Pablo Zitzmann of No Name Chinese fame, this “pop up” 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 (dinner only), hand-rolled daily, are superb. Other menu items are highly inventive and flavorful. $$-$$$

396 Alhambra Cir. 786.409.6920

Gustave

Launched by a couple of friends with a track record in Paris, Gustave’s a light-filled, lovely addition to the local French cuisine scene. With a good selection of baked goods, this is a Paris-style café with good coffee and solid fare. Good to know where you can get a croque monsieur for lunch and boeuf bourguignon for dinner. $$-$$$

366 Miracle Mile. 305.640.5675

Pascal’s on Ponce

Elegant, quaint, and delicious, the home and culinary canvas of owner-chef Pascal Oudin, who brings authentic French cuisine to the heart of the city. Oudin excels in seafood, soufflés, and foie gras. Try the diver sea scallops and tomato tartin. $$$$$$$

the service is crisp and superb. The dinner menu is straightforward, with pasta dishes mostly under $20 and entrees mostly under $30. And as many dessert listings (12) as pasta choices. $$

2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545

Caffe Abbracci

A Gables icon, the late 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. $$$ 318 Aragon Ave. 305.441.0700

Fiola

Fontana

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

1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel) 305.913.3200

Luca Osteria

Frenchie’s Diner

It looks like an all-American diner (which it once was), but this is pure French cooking in a small but comfy setting. Frenchie himself is usually there. Some items on the menu can get pricey (filet mignon, $34) but the onion soup ($9) and escargots ($11) are great values, and the croque monsieur ($14) for lunch is a meal unto itself. $$$

2618 Galiano St. 305.442.4554

2611 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.444.2024

ITALIAN

Bugatti

Bugatti prides itself on its pasta – and for good reason, since the restaurant started as a pasta factory. The décor is simple and contemporary with lots of booths, and

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

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

116 Giralda Ave. 305.381.5097

Portosole

When they bring the pecorino cheese wheel to toss your pasta, you’re in heaven. Short of that, they do a fine job with the fritto misto, a mixture of calamari, shrimp, filet of sole, tiny artichokes, and zucchini,

FRENCH

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555 Biltmore Way Suite 106, Coral Gables, FL 33134

(305) 648.3717

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DAVIE 12545 Orange Drive, Suite 501, Davie, FL 33330

(954) 723-7771

Davie@DRM.center

DINING GUIDE

feed two. $$$$

4251 Salzedo St. (Shops at Merrick Park) 786.703.9094

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.

PUBS & CAFÉS

brings the added twist of a chef from Galicia, who puts his own regional spin on the dishes. It’s a small place with a neighborhood vibe, orange walls, string lights and live flamenco on the weekends ($5 cover), so reservations are a must. Great lunch specials. $$

Bagel Emporium

Zucca

254 Giralda Avenue 786.362.5677

Divino Ceviche

Heringsschmaus. Our favorite is the currywurst. Naturally, you must order a beer, but here you can have it served in a giant glass boot. $$ 60 Merrick Way. 305.774.1883

John Martin’s

pasta, empanadas, and salads, but come here for the meat, a carnivore’s delight. $$$

Fogo de Chão

394 Giralda Ave. 305.774.3599

Mamey

And you thought all the great Jewish delis had disappeared. Not this one. Rated the best bagels and deli sandwiches in Miami, it’s also a great breakfast spot (waffles, blintzes, French toast). But this is where you come for a real pastrami or corned beef sandwich on rye. Yes, $20 a pop, but a time machine to New York’s lower East Side. $$-$$$

STEAK

Located at the elegant Hotel St. Michel, 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 Modern Italian design, sophisticated, with great service. $$$-$$$$ 162 Alcazar Ave. 786.580.3731

1238 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.666.9519

Bay 13 Brewery and Kitchen

Christy’s Touted as Coral Gables oldest steakhouse, Christy’s was long the power lunch go-to – until it stopped serving lunch except on Fridays. Still, its aged steaks are consistently excellent, as are the seafood entrees. Their classic Caesar salad is still the best in town, and the jumbo shrimp cocktail is a house specialty. $$$ 3101 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.446.1400

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

LATIN AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN

Aromas del Peru

160 Giralda Ave. 786.360.3775

Ecléctico

The venerable pub that closed during COVID is back, updated as a “21st century” Irish pub. This means a bright new bar and lots of light from floor to ceiling windows. Along with the new look is a significantly upgraded menu, with things like Guinness glazed meatballs and duck flatbread added to the Shepherd’s pie. $$-$$$ 253 Miracle Mile. 305.209.0609

Chef Niven Patel, who is fast gaining a national reputation, hits it out of the park with this restaurant, heir to the creative Caribbean cuisine of Ortanique, but with its own unique and refreshing overlay of Polynesian, Thai, and Indian gastronomy. If your taste buds seek a new adventure, this is the place. $$$

1350 S. Dixie Hwy. (THēsis Hotel) 305.667.5611

fusions between Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. Their fish is caught daily in local waters and brought to your table for inspection. The whole fried fish is a marvel. Also, make sure to try the lobster tacos. $$$ 264 Giralda Ave. 305.640.8448

Sea Grill

At Fogo de Chão, meat reigns supreme. Try the “churrasco experience” ($61) and let expert gaucho chefs keep the finely cut slabs coming, from beef ribeye to flank steak to lamb pincanha. If you’re a Wagyu fan, this is the place to be. The interior is as grand as the experience, which is a show in itself, Brazilian style. Great cocktails in the upstairs lounge for before or after. $$$-$$$$ 2801 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 786.297.8788

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille

Sea Grill is a popular weekend destination for lovers of Mediterranean seafood. A large, brightly lit and futuristic space with lots of energy, it serves fish that is caught in the Aegean Sea and flown to the Gables. Their octopus, which takes two days to prepare, is simply the best. Lots of outdoor seating. $$$

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

Sports Grill

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

Fritz and Franz Bierhaus

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. $$

Fantastic, aged steaks, a seafood tower that won’t quit, and a wine cellar that appears to have no end of depth. A place for special celebrations. Recently redecorated, but the open kitchen with its copper “sash” across the top still gives the main dining room a warm glow. Good menu at the bar. $$$-$$$$ 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.569.7995

Brought to you by the folks at nearby Sawa, Ecléctico is an open, airy, Latin-fusion restaurant that serves “light” and inventive variations on Latin small plates with a Mexican overlay – and a truly awesome selection of mezcal and tequila. A fun place for dinner. $$

320 San Lorenzo Ave. (Shops at Merrick Park) 786.615.5735

Graziano’s

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

TUR Kitchen

A wonderfully inventive menu of Mediterranean cuisine, courtesy of Chef Christian, who plates beautiful dishes that combine the flavors of Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, and Egypt. Best pork tenderloin and créme fraîche. Elegant seating under arches along Giralda. $$$-$$$$ 259 Giralda Ave. 786.483.8014

4250 Salzedo St. (Shops at Merrick Park) 305.447.3990

Bulla Gastrobar

Tinta y Café

1930 Ponce de León Blvd. 305.476.5886

Be transported from Coral Gables to Oktoberfest. Enjoy German comfort food like Weisswurst and

Funky and comfortable, this former gas station turned Cuban café has 1) the best Cuban coffee, 2) great

This large, popular Gables mainstay is true Argentine. A deep selection of Argentinian wines (which line several walls) go with beef slowly roasted over a quebracho wood fire, old school style. They have seafood,

fluffy eggs for breakfast, 3) furniture that makes you feel like you are in someone’s living room, and 4) all the other things that make you love Cuban food, like croquetas and media noche sandwiches. $ 1315 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.285.0101

MesaMar

The youngest entry among Coral Gables steak houses, Perry’s is a Texas chain that gets its beef from the heart of the Lone Star State. Great outdoor space with fire pit and a huge interior with its own piano bar. The entrees are all carefully concocted, including excellent reduction sauces for the finer cuts and their famous five-finger giant pork chop that is carved at the table and can feed two. $$$$

4251 Salzedo St. (Shops at Merrick Park) 786.703.9094

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

2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.0107

Threefold Café

You have to love a place that is

Some of the best – if not the best –seafood in the Gables with inventive

dedicated to breakfast all day long. But who needs dinner when you can get shrimp tacos for breakfast, along with salmon scrambled eggs, chicken parma, and that Millennial favorite, smashed avocado toast? The brainchild of Australian Nick Sharp, Threefold is also popular for Sunday brunch. And the coffee is some of the best around. $$ 141 Giralda Ave. 305.704.8007 ■

Frame SALE

JOHN MARTINS

STEAK

MEDITERRANEAN LATIN

Greg Guiteras president CEO

Where Am I?

If you know where this Coral Gables statue is located, send the answer to editor@ coralgablesmagazine.com along with your home address. The first two winners will

receive two free tickets to the Miracle Theatre and the next 10 winners will be sent two free passes to the Coral Gables Museum. Photo by Kylie Wang.