Coral Gables Magazine May 2021

CORAL GABLES

The New Mayor

VINCE LAGO TRIUMPHS

PLUS THE CURRENT ART SCENE

THE BEST CUBAN SANDWICHES STAYING BEAUTIFUL IN THE GABLES

Plastic Surgery

What to do When?

Indications for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery vary with a patient’s age

20’s - The focus in this decade is on improving inherited features. This may include refining your nose by reducing its overall dimensions to better match and blend with the rest of your face. Also, increasing an uncomfortably small breast size with implants can yield a fuller and more confident look, with a better balance to the rest of your body. On the contrary, reducing oversized, heavy and burdensome breasts provides great relief and facilitates a more active lifestyle. The 20’s may also be a time for liposuction contouring to reduce genetically programmed areas of undesirable fullness, such as disproportionate hips and saddlebags, which persist despite exercise and good eating habits.

30’s - In addition to the earlier indications, Plastic Surgery, along with an active lifestyle, now begins to add a maintenance dimension, improving or holding on to your 20’s shape with liposuction, or adding some lost volume to post pregnancy breasts. This may also be the time for the first implant renewal – as they have about a 10–15 year life span. Non-surgical options emerge as helpful, such as professionally guided skin care programs, and touches of fillers and Botox®

40’s - Now the focus shifts increasingly to rejuvenation, especially after kids. Tummy tucks help to reclaim your pre-pregnancy body by tightening loose skin and stretched belly muscles (well beyond what’s possible with exercise), removing stretch marks and restoring a younger looking belly button (important for wearing a two-piece bathing suit, again), along with repair of the occasional hernia. A judicious amount of liposuction might also be helpful, as well as hip lifts to remove persistent ‘muffin tops’ and retighten the sides.

To recover from the effects of breast feeding, or simple breast aging, deflated and drooping breasts can be re-energized with breast lifts or reductions, with or without implants, depending on anatomic specifics and a patient’s goals.

In the face, non-surgical treatments hit primetime, with Botox® and fillers in the lead, to address lines and loss of facial volume.

Later 40’s, 50’s and Beyond - Rejuvenation and maintenance become the dominant and persistent themes, as physical aging becomes no longer, or as easily, deniable. Face, neck and upper eye lifts, skillfully performed, are the principal tools to address ‘facial fatigue’ and a tired look and do much to restore a refreshed and natural

... living your life as well and as healthy as possible, which should always be your priority, well perfomed Plastic Surgery does help to ease the inevitable physical signs of aging...

Stephan Baker MD

appearance. Occasionally, lower lid surgery (for puffy ‘bags’) and outer (“lateral”) brow lifts are also aesthetically indicated and helpful. After facial surgery, indications for non-surgical treatments decrease but do not stop, as they help to maintain and enhance your surgical result. Botox®, fillers and other dermatologic modalities, provide synergistic benefits even though they do not substitute for surgery. Conceptually, surgery removes slack and sagging skin and re-tightens the facial infrastructure (muscles and connective tissues). Non-surgical, dermatologic treatments address lines around the mouth, eyes and other areas, add volume and improve skin quality, all of which helps to optimize results.

In the rest of the body, indications for rejuvenation and maintenance continue, principally with skin tightening procedures in the breast and tummy areas, among others. Also, and increasingly, patients in their 50’s and 60’s are requesting to have their implants removed, not only to avoid future implant replacements but to become smaller (less ‘’matronly’) and ‘natural’ again. It makes them feel younger. This choice usually entails a breast lift for reshaping and rejuvenating the breast appearance.

A parting commentary on aging and its management: ‘aging gracefully’ is not really graceful, but more akin to benign neglect. Aside from living your life as well and as healthy as possible, which should always be your priority, well performed Plastic Surgery does help to ease the inevitable physical signs of aging. In a sense, it is similar, conceptually, to renovating, and maintaining your home or other things important to you. So, when it comes to rejuvenation surgery, it’s not just ‘vanity’ but managing your aging with whatever grace possible.

As always, research and reflect carefully, and be realistic, before proceeding with any Plastic Surgery so as to minimize risk while optimizing your happiness.

LOOKING FORWARD

An interview with Vince Lago, the new mayor of Coral Gables.

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH

We consulted with local plastic surgeons, cosmetic dermatologists and cosmetic dentists to see what the latest treatments are to reverse the appearance of aging.

JEWEL OF THE MILE

What does it take to keep a shop open in the Gables for 75 years, like Jae’s Jewelers? Three generations of family, for starters.

THE ART SCENE

Art in Public Places has gone into overdrive in the Gables in recent years. But what about its galleries, and the artists who actually live here? Once home to more than 40 galleries, the City Beautiful now has a mere handful – perhaps only three truly legitimate and functioning galleries.

Hail to the Chief

Let me begin by saying that nobody deserves to be the mayor of Coral Gables more than Vince Lago. Nobody has worked harder to make Coral Gables a more progressive and efficient city, a greener city and a more fiscally sound city.

I first met Vince Lago when we ran a story about the city’s sustainability programs. Lago, then in his second term as city commissioner, had been the driving force in legislation to ban plastic and Styrofoam waste in the city. We had taken a picture of him at his home, which is powered by solar panels, sitting by his electric car. One of his two daughters had come out to pose in some of the shots, which we didn’t use.

At his request, I stopped by Lago’s commissioner office in City Hall on a Friday afternoon, his weekly “open door” time when residents can come in and let him know what’s on their minds. He thanked me for the article, but he had a question. “Why wasn’t my daughter in the picture?” he asked. “She dressed up so nicely. Your photographer said it was fine. And now she’s asking me, ‘What happened, daddy?’ What should I tell her?”

Here, I thought, is a real family guy. Which he is (though God help the young men who date his daughters when they grow up). But the invitation was also really an excuse for him to talk my ear off about how Coral Gables should be a leader in environmental stewardship, a zero polluter, a green city preparing for global warming – all things he believed in, he said, despite being a fiscally conservative Republican.

Since then, we have watched Mayor Lago write a whirlwind of legislation, pushing for

higher fines for polluters, better trolley service, more recycling programs, funding for the Underline park, more competitive negotiations for city contracts, better historic preservation, reduced pension debt – the list really does go on and on. And we have watched him engage the community, having residents address the city commission with new ideas, holding Town Hall meetings twice a year, and keeping to his open door policy. And I learned that he is the kind of guy who, when someone tells him there is an original blueprint of the City of Coral Gables being auctioned online, outbids everyone else to buy it. And then, with his wife Olga, donates it to the Coral Gables Museum.

So, it is satisfying to see that Lago’s efforts and true love for the city were recognized by voters in last month’s election. His 21-point victory was especially telling following a mountain of negative mail that falsely accused him of being pro-development (his record is a consistent string of votes against large projects in the Gables). Nor were voters swayed by the Miami Herald’s last minute endorsement of his principal opponent Pat Keon. Coral Gables is a very well-educated city, and voters did not buy into the propaganda. The city should feel proud of itself.

So, good luck and carry on, Mr. Mayor. You have a city that believes in you. ■

JP FABER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CORAL GABLES MAGAZINE

CEO & PUBLISHER

Richard Roffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

J.P.Faber

EVP / PUBLISHER

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

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DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

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ART DIRECTOR

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PRODUCTION MANAGER

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VP SALES

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ASSOCIATE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

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EDITOR-AT-LARGE

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SENIOR WRITER

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FILM AND VIDEO CRITIC

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PHOTOGRAPHERS

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CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

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Coral Gables Magazine is published monthly by City Regional Media, 1200 Anastasis Ave. Suite 115, Coral Gables FL 33134. Telephone: (305) 995-0995. Copyright 2021 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. BPA International Membership applied for March 2019.

Cover: Vince Lago outside city hall after his election to Mayor. Photo by Emily

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

Happy Third Birthday

As a relatively new resident of Coral Gables (one year) and three years in South Florida (having moved from the Washington, D.C. area) I wanted you to know how much my wife and I enjoy the magazine.

In fact, it is is a major reason why we live where we do in Deering Bay. I especially liked your three-year anniversary column on “the three’s.” As a believer in those three I was especially delighted to read it.

Cal Thomas

Be Careful on the Mile

Once the developers zoom in like hyenas to “build and revitalize” the Mile, the mess and dust will discourage the much needed pedestrian traffic that keeps the few remaining restaurants alive. Curb appeal will be gone after the city worked so hard with the great sidewalks.

And how long did that take? How long will new construction take? Years! Hopefully, construction will be done in stages so that it does not choke the potential opening of new businesses, sidewalk dining and both residents and visitors to the Mile. If you walk the Mile in the evenings, you can see lots of people walking and dining outside again. COVID put it in a coma, but it is slowly awakening! Don’t hinder its emergence!

Gretchen Stevens

Understanding Wawa

Thanks for sharing. It was a well written article, about a dedicated group of people [March Issue: Where Community Runs Deep]. I’m glad that several points were clarified, including how the land for the gas station has been leased rather than sold, and how the payments from Wawa are going to be paid continuously, rather than in one lump sum. It was interesting to hear about how many former businesses were located on the land in question, including a previous gas station. I’ve heard similar stories about former businesses located along Charles Avenue, although I don’t particularly think that means we need to recreate them.

I would imagine that at least some of these segregation era businesses that used to exist were black owned, and perhaps that’s a happy aspect of the past that some would like to bring back, in the form of these up-zonings. I want to preserve the tranquility that exists now, and this article cautions me that my stance could be interpreted as bourgeois and selfish. I don’t want to imply that any of these community leaders are easily bought, because thanks to articles like this, I have been made aware of all the organizing that has been going on for decades before I was here.

I realize the same sort of thing could just as easily go on in a white neighborhood as a black neighborhood, and the scholarships could be paid through a local Lions Club just as easily as the Lola B. Walker Foundation. I do believe that these sorts of “compromises” happen more often in needy neighborhoods, and perhaps that’s what I need to accept.

Michael March

MacFarlane residents like trees too

The cutting down of the two giant oak trees at the WAWA site across the street from GW Carver Elementary was a tragedy that brought to light the secret meetings and illegal lobbying of city officials that led to this terrible result. But perhaps the most important thing that has been revealed is that any argument that there is widespread support within the MacFarlane Homestead Historic District for the WAWA is a myth.

As part of my work representing residents, I have had the opportunity to meet with residents living within 1,000 feet of the WAWA. They are upset that they were never notified of what was happening or given a chance to have their voice heard, and are vehemently opposed to what is happening.

Given our history of [where we put] garbage dumps and bus garages, it is not surprising that the WAWA is being put in the “black” Gables. But the residents of MacFarlane – a diverse neighborhood made up of Blacks, Hispanics and Anglos – don’t like their trees getting cut down any more than

anyone else. They also don’t like their property values being reduced and their neighborhood being made a worse place by a gas station.

But city employees and our elected officials wouldn’t know that because they haven’t talked to these residents, nor included them in the process.

David Winker, Esq.

Editor’s Note: We agree that cutting down trees of any kind is an affront to our community, and that more should have been done to save them. But we disagree with your conclusion that the residents of MacFarlane are against the Wawa. The Black community there will benefit from the permanent stream of income that it will provide to restore the historic district and provide scholarship funds for residents. Why do you suppose the Lola B. Walker Homeowners Foundation has embraced this project?

Pensions Yes, Development No

The [recent elections] made it very clear in that Coral Gables must address certain issues. We need to tackle the $209.9 million of unfunded pension liability. Those who are responsible for the present underfunding do not want to hear it. Those that were instrumental in getting us here do not want to be publicly named! The taxpayers need to know that every budget year there are millions of dollars paid by the City into the Pension Fund, and that we still are not caught up! The taxpayers need to become aware that it will take years to be fully funded! We must get us, yes, the taxpayers, out of the Pension Plan hole so we can put our resources to better use!

We must also be opposed to the excessive development in our City. We must not allow the developers, the political consultants, and the politicians to convince us that it is best to keep everything as is. We must demand transparency in everything we do in this City. We need to be smart enough to see through the smoke and mirrors put together by the developers and those who are willing to make our City Beautiful another Brickell.

Maria Cruz

Streetwise

From City Hall

AT THE LAST MEETING PRIOR TO THE ELECTION OF A NEW MAYOR AND TWO NEW COMMISSIONERS, THE CORAL GABLES CITY COMMISSION:

VOTED 5-0 TO ESTABLISH THE concept of Neighborhood Protection Zones. The idea is to protect streets next to commercial areas, schools, churches, hospitals and UM where “vehicle intrusion into residential neighborhoods” is affecting quality of life. Solutions to be examined include adding more no-parking signs or offering “swale packages” of plantings that block parking.

VOTED 5-0 TO ISSUE $15.25 MILLION in new bonds to pay for upgrades and pre-emptive repairs to the city’s sewage system, so as not to become “another Fort Lauderdale” – referring to the burst sewage pipes that spewed millions of gallons of waste in that city last year.

VOTED 5-0 TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY’S IT department to engage Infor Public Sector, Inc. to implement a new software enterprise system for electronic plan reviews and payments. The system will cost $3.2 million and will be “the last piece in our technology” to move the city forward into a paperless system that will make the Gables one of the “top IT cities in the country,” said City Manager Peter Iglesias.

VOTED 5-0 TO APPROVE A 15-FOOT sculpture for the plaza entrance to the new Public Safety Building. The sculpture will consist of stacked green glass with a glowing “eternal flame” in its core that will be lit by sunlight during the day and LED lighting at night. Both the police and fire chiefs endorsed the $450,000 work of art, which will have a plaque at its base to inscribe the names of fallen officers.

VOTED 5-0 IN FAVOR OF A RESOLUTION declaring Principles of Inclusion for individuals with autism and other special needs, urging government, business and residents to act within these principles (sponsored by outgoing Commissioner Pat Keon)

GAVE THE KEY TO THE CITY TO City Manager Peter Iglesias in recognition of his accomplishments in keeping the city fiscally sound and completing its capital projects.

PRESENTED A CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION to residents Ray Corral and Alina Meledina for their donations of orchids to the public “paseo” green space on Country Club Prado (sponsored by Commissioner Jorge Fors). ■

Goodbye, Mayor Valdés-Fauli

April marked the last month of public service by Mayor Raúl Valdés-Fauli, who began as a city commissioner in 1985, then served as mayor from 1993 to 2001, and then again as mayor from 2017 until this year. In his last address to the city commission, Mayor Valdés-Fauli urged the city commissioners to “continue to be collegiate, respectful, courteous, and considerate of each other, the public and staff.”

In a video presentation and in comments by city officials, Valdés-Fauli was lauded for

his early efforts to create the Shops at Merrick Park, his push for public art, his expansion of the Sister Cities program, his support of new city buildings and his endorsement of the Gables’ smart city program and its paperless future.

A teary mayor declared “I am speechless. This recognition by the city I love and have served… is extremely significant.” Vice Mayor Vince Lago, who will replace Valdés-Fauli as mayor, called him a “true hero” of the city. ■

Hello, Mayor Vince Lago

Vice Mayor Vince Lago will be the next mayor of Coral Gables, defeating Commissioner Pat Keon by double-digits in a contentious contest that captured a record number of votes in the election held April 13. A total of 10,354 voters turned out, up significantly from the 8,574 who participated in the 2019 election. Lago got 6,004 votes (58 percent), Keon got 3,887 votes (38 percent), while Jackson Holmes, a late dark horse candidate, captured 463 votes (4 percent). For the two commission seats left vacant by Lago and Keon, both races resulted in a runoff because no candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote. The two leading candi-

dates for the Group II commission seat were Rhonda Anderson, with 4,307 votes (42 percent), and Jose Valdés-Fauli, who won 2,671 votes (26 percent). For the Group III commission seat Javier Baños got 3,208 votes (32 percent) while Kirk Menendez won 3,088 votes (31 percent). These sets of candidates faced each other in a runoff election April 27. For the results, go to coralgablesmagazine.com.

Development was a key issue in the race, with most candidates posturing against excessive development. Political action committees filled residents’ mailboxes with negative (and frequently false) attacks on candidates, but voters were apparently not significantly influenced. ■

Let There Be Lights (Again)

A PIECE OF THE OLD WHITE WAY COMES BACK TO LIFE

Once upon a time – back in the early 1920s – “White Way” streetlights illuminated eight miles of streets, boulevards and avenues in Coral Gables. “The person who sees the White Way for the first time will appreciate it not for its iron and steel, but for its beauty and grandeur,” a 1922 advertisement touted. Most of the streetlights were in the Arcadian style, a one-piece cast iron pole weighing 250 pounds. They stood on Alhambra Circle, North Greenway Drive, Granada Boulevard, Coral Way and Country Club Prado. Two of them stood in front of Coral Gables’ first public building, the Coral Gables Golf and Country Club. Almost all have been lost to time and the elements.

In a private-public partnership between the city and the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables (HPACG), the two Arcadian lights that

once graced the front of the golf club have now been restored and replaced. In a ceremony last month, public officials – along with HPACG executive director Dr. Karelia Martinez Carbonell – dedicated the twin lights. “Today we collectively bring back a piece – or two – of lost history to Coral Gables,” said Dr. Carbonell, to a place “where [city founder George] Merrick once stood and addressed the merits of buying into his dream.”

Raul Valdés-Faúli, in one of his last public acts as mayor, thanked preservationist Greg Dalkranian, who acquired five Arcadian streetlights with their original fixtures in 2017. It was Dalkranian who later came across a 1925 photo of the historic country club that showed the lights in place. He presented his restoration proposal to the HPACG in 2019, which then approached the city for help. The rest, as they say, is history. ■

Good News for Pot Smokers

As U.S. states continue to legalize marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes, a new study at the University of Miami reduces at least one worry – that pot smokers are more sedentary and less inclined to exercise, leaving them prone to obesity and other “adverse health conditions.”

Michael T. French and Karoline Mortensen of UM’s Herbert Business School, along with Manuel Alcalá Kovalski of the Brookings Institution, examined data from more than 20,000

subjects that tracked their behavior from high school to their late 30s. They found no evidence that pot smokers avoided exercise; if anything, the opposite effect was the case.

French is now studying the relationship between pot smoking and pain control. Early findings show less traffic fatality rates in states that permit marijuana use, which he believes comes from marijuana use replacing “other self-medicating substances” like alcohol or opioids. ■

A UM STUDY EASES SOME LEGALIZATION CONCERNS

ABOVE: THE LIGHTS IN 1925. BELOW: GREG DALKRANIAN, DR. KARELIA MARTINEZ CARBONELL, MAYOR VALDÉS-FAULI AND NEW MAYOR VINCE LAGO AT THE DEDICATION

Wawa, the Oak Trees and Circuit Court

THE OAK TREES ARE DEAD AND GONE, BUT THE CONTROVERSY OVER THE WAWA STORE LIVES ON

BY MIKE CLARY

In April, two mature live oaks along Grand Avenue – across from G.W. Carver Elementary School and in the way of the planned entrance and exit to a coming Wawa convenience store – were chopped down, sparking a flurry of outrage on social media. “Deeply disturbing,” wrote one Gables resident on the Nextdoor app.

Numerous citizens had asked Coral Gables city officials to help save the 40-year-old trees. The problem: The trees came under the jurisdiction of Miami-Dade County, since Grand Avenue is a county road.

Despite concerns that the trees were illegally cut down, the removal was properly permitted by Miami-Dade County, according to Tere Florin, a spokesperson for the Department of Regulatory & Economic Resources. Bahamian Village, the partnership heading the Wawa project, was cited – not for felling the trees, however, but for failing to install protective barriers around two trees remaining on the right of way, Florin said.

In an effort to assuage residents, Wawa offered to plant two 20-foot oak trees in a nearby park and contribute $17,000 for additional trees in the city. Coral Gables agreed to accept the offer, according to City Attorney Miriam Soler Ramos.

Meanwhile, a civil lawsuit aiming to block the Wawa project got its first hearing April 16 in Miami-Dade Circuit Court. The lawsuit, which names the city as defendant, was filed by the Gables Accountability Project, made up of six parents of Carver students, and alleges Wawa poses a danger to the students’ health and safety. Judge Michael Hanzman ordered

the plaintiff’s attorney to expand the suit, adding Wawa and the developer as defendants. “Don’t they need to be here and have a right to be heard?” asked the judge. He added, “This sounds like a very interesting case, and I’ll be engaged in this case.” Hanzman said he would revisit the matter in 30 days.

Bahamian Village LLC, a partnership between the Lola B. Walker Homeowners Foundation and Redevco, has leased the 1.3-acre site to Wawa in return for monthly payments that could be used to rehab wood frame houses in the predominantly Black neighborhood – the only part of Coral Gables listed in the National Register of Historic Places – as well as to fund other community needs such as scholarships.

Parents at the G.W. Carver Elementary School across the street have tried to stop the project, since they feel that the gas pumps will pollute the air and that the traffic entering and exiting on Grand Avenue will endanger the children who attend the school. Having the cars enter or exit on U.S. 1 was blocked by the county, however, since it slowed and endangered traffic on that busy roadway.

The parents also feel that the City of Coral Gables granted permission to build the convenience store/gas station without a proper hearing. The city’s response has been that the permits were granted without more public notice because they fall within the allowed zoning for that location. It’s only when a new project requires the rules to be bent – as in the case of a building exceeding height restrictions – that the matter comes before the city commission, and hence the public. ■

TOP: MATURE TREES ON THE SIDEWALKS OF GRAND AVENUE PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED SHADE FOR RESIDENTS, BUT THEY FALL UNDER THE CONTROL OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY. THE TWO ABOVE WERE CUT DOWN TO MAKE WAY FOR THE ENTRANCE AND EXIT OF THE NEW WAWA CONVENIENCE STORE.

BOTTOM: PARENTS AT THE G.W. CARVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ACROSS THE STREET FROM THE WAWA ARE TRYING TO BLOCK THE PROJECT, CITING HEALTH AND SAFETY CONCERNS.

THE GRASS IS GREENER IN 2021

The Carole Smith Team has facilitated a

Q1 YEAR OVER YEAR

The first quarter of 2021 was more measured than the balance of 2019.

Prior to the pandemic, we were on track for a record year.

This real estate market requires local expertise and unsurpassed experience in order to ensure positive outcomes. This is where we excel.

Scarcity and demand are the protagonists in this blockuster quarter.

2019 Q1 # TRANSACTIONS

2020 Q1 # TRANSACTIONS

2021 Q1 # TRANSACTIONS

Four Cars and a Hotel

If you are going to photograph an ad for expensive, iconic cars, where better than in front of the Biltmore Hotel?

That, at least, was the thinking behind a recent shoot of automobiles from the Braman Miami dealership, which includes such venerable brands as Rolls Royce, Bentley, Bugatti and BMW. And it was those four makes that were recently on display in front of the hotel when MendaGroup Advertising executed the ad photo. “I wanted someplace fresh and real to showcase the cars,” says Tony Garcia, president and CEO of MendaGroup. “Coral Gables is a key market for us, so we wanted a nice local feel. And personally, I love the Biltmore.”

The cars on display included a 2020 “kryptos blue” V12 Rolls Royce Wraith (listed at $407,500) with suicide doors (the ones that open toward the back); a 2021 Continental V8 convertible Bentley (listed at $245,600); a 2021 X7 BMW suv ($90,000); and at the top of the food chain, the new Pur Sport “Chiron” Bugatti, with 16 cylinders, a fully carbon body and a top speed of 267 mph (starting at $5 million).

Only one or two of the Bugattis are sold each year, according to the good folks at Braman. With 1,500 horsepower, it’s the fastest production street-legal car in existence. ■

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Living

TAKING A YOGA CLASS AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN.

SEE PAGE 26.

“We Need Nature”

UM’S JOHN C. GIFFORD ARBORETUM PROVIDES A REFUGE FOR TREES – AND HUMANS

BY MIKE CLARY

Created in 1947, the University of Miami’s arboretum was designed as a living laboratory for the study and conservation of tropical plants collected from all around the world. Currently, the leafy, threeacre botanical garden on the northwest corner of campus is home to more than 500 species of trees and palms.

In the past year, as the Covid-19 pandemic has upended routines and ratcheted up stress levels, the arboretum has emerged as a welcoming community refuge, a flowering green glade of tranquility that invites repose and reflection.

“More than ever humans realize we need nature,” says Mauro Galetti, a professor of biology and director of the John C. Gifford Arboretum, which honors an American forester. “I go there almost every day to check on the plants, to relax, and I have noticed the increasing number of visitors. I see people praying, doing yoga, taking Zoom classes, reading books. It is one of the beautiful places in Coral Gables.”

Among those who have come to appreciate the garden this past year are Martha and Christopher Harrison, who almost daily spend two hours of the afternoon under the blooming boughs of a dwarf apple tree,

taking in the birdsongs, the air perfumed by the flowers of the Ylang Ylang tree, which produces the essential oil in Chanel No. 5. A licensed masseuse, Martha likes to sit in the shade and through earbuds listen to classes on massage. Christopher, a retired professor of geophysics at UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, prefers a little sunshine while reading science magazines and The Guardian. “Spending time out in nature is very healing, and it’s so beautiful,” says Martha. “I am respectful of the energy of trees and greenery. It’s restorative. We are the luckiest.”

Over the year, the arboretum has survived threats from the university’s insatiable hunger for building space and parking lots – and from storms. Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma in 2005 wiped out about half the trees in the collection and led to a major renovation.

Galetti says the future of the arboretum seems secure, with minor improvements now underway. These include the installation of new benches, tables and a water fountain, and a paved walkway to allow wheelchair access. Thanks to a gift from the City of Coral Gables and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 95 orchids are also being added to the grounds. ■

Tours of the arboretum are self-guided. Each tree is identified with a tag bearing its name and country of origin. The main entryway is from San Amaro Drive, just south of the small San Amaro/Campo Sano traffic circle. The arboretum is open to the public free of charge seven days a week. Visitors are asked to use metered parking.

APPLE BLOSSOM TREE

TOP: MARTHA AND CHRISTOPHER HARRISON ENJOYING THE SOLITUDE OF THE ARBORETUM TO READ AND LISTEN TO PODCASTS. “SPENDING TIME OUT IN NATURE IS VERY HEALING, AND IT’S SO BEAUTIFUL,” SAYS MARTHA.

BOTTOM: STUDENTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI TAKE A DETOUR THROUGH THE GARDENS

Namaste in the Garden

TAKING A YOGA CLASS AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN

BY LIZZIE WILCOX PHOTOS BY EMILY FAKHOURY

The wind rustles through the leaves of the garden, the sun shines through the openings of the tent and the music of the sound bowls washes over you as you lay in a quiet meditation. This moment of serenity can be found on Saturday mornings at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden during their Morning Yoga: Vinyasa with Crystal Sound Bowls series.

The one-hour yoga class is held at the amphitheater. To get there, go through the main entrance and past the Visitor Center parking lot, and park in the lowlands parking field. Then walk to the amphitheater, a grassy area surrounded by palm trees and lakes – the ideal setting to practice yoga.

The class begins with gentle movements and stretches, waking and warming up the body. We then did a number of sun salutations and went from downward dog into other asanas (poses). Vinyasa means “movement between poses.” In this form of yoga, you flow from one asana to another: Downward dog to warrior two

to triangle pose, for example. Breath is an integral part of the practice and each movement is accompanied with an inhale or exhale.

It was a pretty standard vinyasa class for anyone who is familiar with this style of yoga. Even those who don’t have a yoga practice yet are welcome to join. The instructor asks at the beginning if anyone is new to yoga and demonstrates poses for anyone who needs it. Though the class was only an hour (in-studio classes are usually an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and a half), it was definitely a good workout and we somehow squeezed in all the sun salutations, poses and pranayama (breath work).

The best part is savasana – where you just lie on your back and quiet your mind (or try to) as you meditate to the soothing sounds of the crystal bowls echoing through the garden. The only distraction is the occasional chirping of one of Fairchild’s winged residents. It’s a restorative and relaxing way to spend a Saturday morning. ■

TOP RIGHT: STUDENTS PRACTICE THE TREE POSE, WHICH IMPROVES BALANCE. CLASSES ARE ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 10:30 A.M. THROUGH MAY 15. TICKETS ARE $20 FOR MEMBERS AND $30 FOR NON-MEMBERS. TO SIGN UP, VISIT : FAIRCHILDGARDEN.ORG/EVENTS

TOP LEFT: THE SATURDAY MORNING CLASS IS ACCOMPANIED BY THE SOUND OF CRYSTAL BOWLS... AND A BREEZE RUSTLING THROUGH THE LEAVES.

Best Bets FOR MAY

ROBERTO FABELO (B. 1950) A FOCUS EXHIBITION (TOP)

Cernuda Arte is displaying a special presentation of 20 artworks by contemporary master Roberto Fabelo. The exhibition highlights the artist’s superb renditions in sculptures, canvases and works on paper, and celebrates Fabelo’s rise in the national contemporary collector’s market. Cernuda Arte is the exclusive representative of Roberto Fabelo in the Southeastern United States. On view now at the gallery (3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd.) and at cernudaarte.com.

MOTHER’S DAY AT DEERING ESTATE (BOTTOM)

Bring the whole family to Deering Estate to celebrate mom. Bring your own picnic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or take a cruise on Biscayne Bay at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Mother’s Day gift bags are also available for purchase on Deering Estate’s website. General admission is $15; cruise tickets are $45. Sunday, May 9. Deeringestate.org.

A MATTER OF TIME

Coral Gables Museum’s latest exhibit, “A Matter of Time: Examining Forty Years of AIDS While Living Through a Pandemic,” looks back on the development of AIDS 40 years after the first reported case. It tells the story those who died and those who lived through objects, documents and artwork. On display in three galleries of the museum through July 18. Coralgablesmuseum.org.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT CAJA CALIENTE

The dynamic duo of owner Mika Leon and her mom Lupe are cooking up a brunch surprise this Mother’s Day. Celebrate your mom, abuelita, tia and madrina with free bubbles and delicious food. Brunch menu items include Caja’s Breakfast Taco and Abuelo’s French Toast. Sunday, May 9, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Caja-caliente.com. ■

Guiding You Home In Coral Gables

2020 showed us many things, but one of the most important lessons was that South Florida and specifically Coral Gables is one of the most desirable places for families to live, work and play. We saw unprecedented gains in the real estate market and the first quarter of 2021 has seen record-wbreaking sales and very low inventory to satisfy the demand. If you are thinking of selling or buying real estate in Coral Gables, give us a call. With over 35 years of experience and a team of 14 agents, the Audrey Ross Team can speedily sell your house at the highest possible price or, if you are a buyer, help you find your perfect place in the world of Coral Gables!

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Business

ALBERT SANTALO, OWNER OF THE CORAL GABLES-BASED 8BASE. SEE PAGE 34.

Business Briefs

A NEW STARTUP CONNECTS PRODUCERS WITH CONSUMERS

Not all entrepreneurs are high tech. Case in point is Source, a new venture born in the Forum co-working space on Alhambra Circle. Co-founded by Joanna Davila and Jennifer Kapoor, Source is a “fieldto-feast” marketplace that delivers a weekly “Farm Box” of the freshest seasonal produce from Redland farms to subscribers anywhere in Miami-Dade County. “Jenny and I wanted a place to get fresh farm produce,” says Davila. “We have a lot of great farms here, but I can’t go to Homestead every weekend.” Source bridges that gap, and delivers boxes of fruits and vegetables each Friday, along with options that include gourmet mushrooms, fresh eggs and artisanal bread. Source also has an in-house chef creating recipes. “Not only are we giving you a box of freshly harvested vegetables and fruit picked at the perfect time, we tell you ways to prepare the food,” says Kapoor. “Not everyone knows what to do with a watermelon radish.”

Developer Armando Codina, above, who has built some of the handsomest buildings in downtown Coral Gables (who doesn’t love a cupola?), has announced his intention to build a luxury apartment building blocks from his company headquarters on Salzedo Street. The building would rise on what are now parking lots on Salzedo between Valencia and Almeria avenues, currently being used by Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables. Codina Partners acquired the 1.34-acre site in exchange for the old police department building on Salzedo Street (at Sevilla Avenue). Codina had acquired that building from the city in a previous swap for property at Salzedo and Minorca, where the new HQ building for police, fire and EMS was recently built. Codina says he wants to include a total of 13 massive apartments (3,000- to 7,000-square feet) in a new building on the parking lot site, and that he intends to occupy the penthouse himself. He can then walk seven blocks to work at Codina Partners HQ, catty-corner from the new police building.

AN UNCONVENTIONAL BUSINESS SCHOOL

Success in business is all about the journey, says Wayne Eldred, founder of the new Outliers business school that began its test run at the Coral Gables Museum last month. Officially opening in July, the Outliers Institute is a decidedly maverick nonprofit that Eldred says will fill the gap between formal business school curriculum and the real world. “It’s a very raw, but very real way of teaching,” he says. “Being successful in business is not what people think it is. There is a lot of hard work, a lot of dirt, and grind, and sawdust.” The classes, held twice weekly in the evenings, include cocktails, dinner and guest speakers from the nitty-gritty world of entrepreneurial business. Traditional subjects such as hiring, management, sales and finance will be covered “but in a real-world context, not in theory,” says Eldred, with an eye toward teaching small businesses how to grow. Eldred himself is a restaurant industry consultant (he owned and operated Tarpon Bend on Miracle Mile for over a decade) and has a successful events production company. Semesters are one month long and cost $1,500. Go to outliersinstitute.com. ■

CODINA PLANS HIS OWN DOWNTOWN PENTHOUSE

SOURCE CO-FOUNDERS, JOANNA DAVILA & JENNIFER KAPOOR

PHOTO BY EMILY FAKHOURY

On Top of the Eight Ball

BY DOREEN HEMLOCK

When Albert Santalo launched 8base in 2017, he set out to help people build and design apps, offering easy-to-use software tools and connecting users with tech professionals on a shared platform. Now, his dream is a growing reality, with the Coral Gables-based venture employing 40 people and hiring more, from sales staff to marketers and even a chief technology officer.

“We’re democratizing software for entrepreneurs and other digital creators, especially for non-technical founders,” Santalo says proudly.

The 8base founder knows the startup ropes. A computer engineer and former business consultant, he created two successful South Florida companies before: Avisena and CareCloud, helping medical practices handle office tasks more efficiently. He raised more than $130 million in capital for them, exiting later.

With 8base, Santalo is trying a different route to growth. He’s relying more on cashflow from the business and less on outside investors, though he has raised $4.2 million for the venture so far.

“At this stage in my life,” says the 53-year-old, “I’m valuing ownership and control more than securing large venture capital deals.”

8base – named for the eight bits in a byte and for the database – earns money in two ways. Users pay to access the platform and its software modules, with pricing based on usage. Subscribers include giants such as IBM Global Services and NATO, Santalo says. Second, customers can hire 8base’s in-house tech team for projects, with a new app costing between $50,000 and $1 million – cheaper and faster than many rivals, he says.

Cost and speed are what drew entrepreneur Jason Killings to 8base. A longtime insurance

agent in Coral Gables, he sought a better way to handle long lists of leads for new insurance clients. Tweaking existing software designed for other industries wasn’t cutting it. So, Killings turned to Santalo for help, successfully launching his LeadVolt app in December after roughly a year in development.

“Rather than have other companies tailor their solution to us, we decided to build our own,” says the LeadVolt CEO. Working with 8base turned out to cost roughly half the price –and was far quicker and more integrated with his other insurance software – compared to offers from longtime enterprise software builders. “8base did a stand-up job,” says Killings, who now has dozens of subscribers to LeadVolt.

Santalo says his team is helping tech ventures from finance and health to real estate and collectibles. The staff includes software engineers in St. Petersburg, Russia. And 8base aims to open a “nearshore” office in Latin America, likely in Medellin, Colombia, a rising star in software development, he says.

So, what advice does the Baltimore-born son of Cuban immigrants offer local entrepreneurs? Don’t think startups are glamorous. Building a venture is often gut-wrenching. Be prepared. Keep focused.

For South Florida to become a major tech hub, he suggests founders and others share local insights and not try to replicate Silicon Valley. “We need to shape our own identity. We’re better suited in the app space than in core innovation,” more like Austin than San Francisco, Santalo says. And for tech folks relocating to Greater Miami: “You have to be a person open to diverse cultures to do well here. We have a great opportunity now.” ■

THE FOUNDER OF 8BASE WANTS TO SUPPLY CUSTOM SOFTWARE PLATFORMS FASTER AND CHEAPER THAN LARGER RIVALS

“WE’RE DEMOCRATIZING SOFTWARE FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND OTHER DIGITAL CREATORS, ESPECIALLY FOR NON-TECHNICAL FOUNDERS.”

ALBERT SANTALO, OWNER

OF THE CORAL GABLES-BASED 8BASE.

4

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A Capital Idea

CORAL GABLES-BASED DRIFTWOOD CAPITAL WAS ALREADY INVESTING IN HOTELS WHEN COVID CREATED BUYING OPPORTUNITIES

BY DOREEN HEMLOCK

The idea blossomed on an airplane. Carlos Rodriguez and his son Carlos Jr. were flying to a conference in San Francisco and talking about ways to grow their hotel business. They didn’t want to scramble to raise funds from friends, family and associates every time a promising hotel deal emerged. But teaming with a big financier instead meant giving up major control.

With U.S. laws making it easier to reach out to investors, Carlos Jr. suggested raising a pool of cash in advance for hotel deals, and then selling off pieces of the new hotels to replenish the fund. The father and son sketched out the idea on a napkin. Within months, in 2015, they had started a $50 million fund honoring the elder Carlos with its name: Driftwood Acquisition and Development, or DAD.

Fast forward to 2021, and DAD, now called Driftwood Capital, has raised more than $700 million from roughly 800 high-income individuals worldwide – about half from Latin America. The company holds stakes in some 25 hotels, including two that just opened in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Even during Covid, money keeps flowing in – partly for opportunities to buy hotels at a discount, says Carlos Sr.

“The idea has worked beautifully,” says the elder Carlos, who runs Driftwood Capital from Coral Gables, employing a staff of 40. “Now we don’t need to rely on institutional capital. We can bridge that gap with our own funds, and then, we have time to syndicate through our friends and family network.” Driftwood Capital buys or builds hotels mainly in the $30

million to $150 million range, operating the properties under brands like Marriott and InterContinental. Some of its plans are even larger: A $335 million, 502-room Westin Resort proposed for central Florida’s Cocoa Beach, for instance.

Carlos Jr. represents the third generation of the Rodriguez family in the hospitality business. His grandfather opened the first Holiday Inn in Costa Rica in 1986. His father, Carlos Sr., joined the family business after working in finance in New York, and bought another Costa Rican hotel, which he runs today as Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo.

Carlos Sr. wanted to expand beyond Costa Rica, however. So, in 1996, he and his wife moved to South Florida to form their own hotel development company: Cardel, which created Holiday Inn Airport West and a group of smaller hotels in Doral. When 9/11 squashed plans to take Cardel public, Rodriguez joined a team in West Palm Beach that featured Lehman Brothers, the largest funder of U.S. hotels at that time. Their venture, Driftwood Hospitality Management, thrived – until Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy during the 2008 financial crisis. The remaining partners re-grouped and today operate some 70 hotels in Florida and across the U.S. south.

Partly as a result of his dependance on Lehman, Carlos Jr. sought more ownership and financing options, prompting the idea for DAD. Today, Driftwood Capital typically keeps a 10 percent stake in each hotel it buys and develops, selling off the rest. It tends to hold properties

TOP: DRIFTWOOD CAPITAL’S FATHER AND SON TEAM, CARLOS RODRIGUEZ SR. AND CARLOS JR.

BOTTOM: DRIFTWOOD CAPITAL OPENED ITS 150-KEY, BOUTIQUE CANOPY BY HILTON IN DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH IN MAY 2020.

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for five to seven years, but unlike some funds, has no deadline to exit. “We’re not in a rush,” says Carlos Sr. “We sell if it’s in the best interest of our investors.”

Financing real estate through funds and syndication is popular, but what sets Driftwood Capital apart is its “laser” focus on hotels, says Ana Bozovic, a real estate broker and founder of real estate data analysis firm Analytics.Miami. She’s bullish on investment in hotels, rather than condominiums.

“Miami condos have been the store of wealth for Latin Americans who wanted to get money out of their countries, but honestly, condos are not good investments. They have very high carrying costs and very low returns under the best of circumstances,” says Bozovic. Hotels instead offer “institutional quality assets,” she says. “This is a great time to have capital to deploy strategically in hospitality.” This is especially true in today’s Covid-19 pandemic environ-

ment. “What better time to be buying hotels than when there’s distress?” says Carlos Sr. The company raised more than $270 million in 2020 and scooped up some bargains, he says.

On the flip side, hotel operations still sag. 2020 ranked as the worst year on record for U.S. hotels, with occupancy averaging just 44 percent nationwide, says industry tracker STR. “We’re suffering the same challenges as other operators,” says Carlos Sr. “But we’re highly liquid and can sustain them better.” Driftwood Capital’s newer funds even feature one for lending to hotels in temporary distress, he says.

Still, over three generations, the Rodriguez family has weathered business cycles before. The family now is starting another chapter in hotels: Tech. Carlos Jr. says he’s spearheading the use of new technologies to raise capital, better manage the portfolio and “create exciting long-term value for our investors.” ■

“WHAT BETTER TIME TO BE BUYING HOTELS THAN WHEN THERE’S DISTRESS?”

CARLOS SR., DRIFTWOOD CAPITAL

CANOPY BY HILTON IN DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH

Drew Kern Closes a Sale EVERY 4 DAYS

Many things have changed in our local real estate market. If you are wondering what is happening in your neighborhood, I would be happy to spend some time discussing it with you. Contact me today!

Bites

COPPER 29 ON MIRACLE MILE, ONE OF SP HOSPITALITY GROUP’S RESTAURANTS IN CORAL GABLES. SEE PAGE 46.

Margaritaville

HAPPY HOUR AT TALAVERA COCINA MEXICANA

BY LIZZIE WILCOX

Bringing a taste of Mexico to Coral Gables, Talavera Cocina Mexicana is a happy hour hotspot for tequila lovers. From 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays, all margaritas, sangrias and wines are half off. We headed straight for the margarita section of the menu, the only way to go at an authentic Mexican restaurant. Here, their offerings are much more than just the classic or spicy; they also have kiwi, flor de passion and fresh blended lychee margaritas, to name a few.

We started out with the Spicy Coconut, made with coconut cream, fresh lime juice and Mezcal, topped with coconut shavings, a chili pepper and a spicy salt rim. The sweetness of the coconut cream, the smokiness of the Mezcal and the spiciness of the salted rim complemented each other surprisingly well, making for

one potent cocktail. Next up was the Grilled Pineapple Jalapeño. Made with triple sec, fresh lime juice, tequila, muddled pineapple and jalapeño slices and garnished with grilled pineapple, it was both spicy and sweet.

Pineapple is also prominent in their white sangria. It’s not a commonly used fruit in sangria, but it really elevates the wine cocktail; a refreshing drink to enjoy al fresco in the springtime. They also have red sangria – by the glass or pitcher – for you red vino enthusiasts.

Sadly, food isn’t discounted during happy hour, though they do put out chips and salsa on the table, the equivalent of bread at an Italian restaurant. We ordered a couple of the other appetizers to soak up the tequila. We got the guacamole, a staple at any Mexican restaurant, which was creamy and topped with cotija

cheese, and accompanied by fresh tortilla chips for dipping. The standout, however, was the queso fundido clasico. Literally meaning “melted cheese,” the dish is a blend of cheeses with chorizo on top. It came with a side of warm, soft tortillas and pico de gallo for a build-yourown-taco experience. Talavera also has a queso fundido poblano, topped with mushrooms, roasted poblano peppers and epazote, an herb native to Mexico. There are great outdoor dining options where you can sit comfortably before the heat of summer is in full effect. With plenty of tables and umbrellas on the west end of Giralda Plaza, the atmosphere is as enjoyable as the food and drinks. ■

Prettiest Salad: Buenos Aires Café

What you expect from the Buenos Aires Café is a robust Argentine selection of grilled meats and empanadas. Which they have – along with some surprising lunch bowls, like their glazed salmon & quinoa with roasted sweet potatoes and almonds. Add to the surprise list their tuna niçoise, which breaks from the traditional French preparation by using Japanese style seared tuna. A visual winner, with soft boiled eggs, kalamata olives, green beans and cherry tomatoes. Tastes pretty good, too ($16). We also love their outdoor seating under the arches of the Colonnade Building.

Secret Gem: Namaste

Namaste is hidden just off Ponce on the north side of Navarre Avenue, right behind Aromas Del Peru. They cook traditional South Indian, North Indian, Mogulai and Awadhi dishes, and are big on takeout. We ate in, and tried the lunch goat platter special ($17.99); not bad with chickpea stew, naan, salad, rice pudding and fried cheese. But the mango chicken curry ($15.99) knocked it out of the park. Add a side of their garlic naan ($3.99) and you’re in heaven. Modest, nice setting, vast menu, pleasant service. ■

GRILLED PINEAPPLE JALAPEÑO MARGARITA WITH TRIPLE SEC, FRESH LIME JUICE, TEQUILA. FOR THOSE WHO PREFER VINO, TRY THE RED SANGRIA

The Best (and Worst)

Cuban Sandwiches

Ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. While the ingredients for a Cuban sandwich remain the same, every restaurant has its own variation. We tried them all and are here to report who gets a gold star and who failed to understand the assignment.

BEST

HAVANA HARRY’S

A true Cuban establishment, it comes as no surprise that Havana Harry’s ended up on top. Their portion size is massive; two people could split one sandwich. For less than $8, this is a great deal. They also use lechon instead of sliced pork, which gives it a robust flavor. Everything is sandwiched between authentic Cuban bread. $7.95

TINTA Y CAFÉ

If getting a Cuban sandwich (called the Patria here) “right” is all about balance, this is a great example. No element, including the Swiss cheese, is overbearing. Excellent flavor, great bread and not sloppy. It may not be on Havana Harry’s level, but it’s definitely a close second. $11

SOLID STANDARDS

VICKY BAKERY

Vicky Bakery also uses lechon on theirs, though not as much as Havana Harry’s does. They put the sandwich on a Panini press before serving, so the cheese is warm and melted. A little heavy on the mayo, but you can order it without. This is your basic, utilitarian Cuban. $7.50

CHANDLERS PLACE

They’re not as generous with the ham at Chandlers Place, and the Cuban bread was thinner and less substantial. On the other hand, it came with a side and a small piece of ginger cake. A fairly standard Cuban sandwich. $8.95

19TH HOLE

They use quality meats and the roasted pork is very flavorful. Just the right amount of cheese and mustard. The entire sandwich is nicely toasted and not overdone. Worth a mention

despite the very non-Cuban setting on the edge of the Biltmore’s golf course – and despite costing $16!

OFF THE MARK

LA CASITA

Is this a Cuban sandwich or a ham sandwich? This one is way out of balance with a thick wad of ham that makes it feel more like something you’d order at a Jewish deli. They also missed the pickle memo. They do, however, win the prize for best price at $6.95.

CHEF SUCRE CAFÉ

The “Mr. Cuban” comes between thick slices of white bread, toasted, panini style. What do you expect from a French joint? But the ham is good, and though the roasted pork is sliced, the mustard is mixed with mojito. What sets them apart from the competition is a guava dipping sauce on the side. Not bad, but the panini style takes them out of the winner’s circle. $9.50

WORST BACHOUR

Who uses turkey breast instead of roasted pork? And who uses prosciutto cotto and porchetta instead of ham? Plus, it’s way too salty and costs $17. It shouldn’t be called a Cuban. Can’t wait to see what they do with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

BOOKS & BOOKS

In an attempt to be upscale, Books & Books destroyed everything that a Cuban sandwich should be. The portion is small, cut into four, finger sandwich-sized pieces. It also comes with a side of guacamole, which just doesn’t fit in. Not only was the sandwich disappointing, the service was abysmal. Not worth the $12 or the 50-minute wait. ■

CHEF SUCRE CAFÉ

VICKY BAKERY

TINTA Y CAFÉ

HAVANA HARRY’S

The Masters of Miracle Mile

WITH THREE RESTAURANTS ALREADY ON THE MILE, SP HOSPITALITY GROUP IS NOW OPENING A FOURTH

BY LIZZIE WILCOX

Nine years ago, Yiannis Sotiropoulos and Makis Paliouras moved from Greece to Miami. They founded SP Hospitality Group, opened a coffee shop on South Beach and soon after began buying commercial real estate on Miracle Mile. In 2015, two years after the flagship debuted on Washington Avenue, they opened their first restaurant in the Gables: Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar, located in the Colonnade Building. The following year, they opened Copper 29. And in 2017, they opened Plomo Tequila and Taco Bar, which became Calle 23 in 2020. “Coral Gables is an amazing area with a very high-end clientele,” says Sotiropoulos.

The business partners, who have also been friends for over 30 years, decided to introduce Crema to Miracle Mile to fill what they perceived as a void in the marketplace. “When we opened Crema here, it was something that was missing,” says Sotiropoulos, “a very sophisticated, European-style café.”

Continued next page

“CORAL GABLES IS AN AMAZING AREA WITH A VERY HIGH-END CLIENTELE.”

MAKIS PALIOURAS (LEFT) AND YIANNIS SOTIROPOULOS (RIGHT), CO-OWNERS OF SP HOSPITALITY GROUP. TOGETHER THEY HAVE LAUNCHED CALLE 23 (SHOWN ABOVE), COPPER 29 AND A STRING OF CREMA GOURMET ESPRESSO BARS.

EXPECTATIONS ARE BUILDING

Coming

With a long tradition of hospitality and care, Belmont Village is collaborating in a unique partnership with Baptist Health South Florida to redefine senior living. Our newest community, opening soon in Coral Gables, builds on our innovative, research-based programming and 24/7 on-site nursing to include a wellness-focused Healthy Living Center on the ground floor. With best-in-class amenities, there’s a life here to meet every need and surpass every expectation.

Paliouras and Sotiropoulos noticed a similar absence of nightlife in the area. And so Copper 29 was born, offering an eclectic food menu, craft cocktails, daily drink deals and a DJ playing music Tuesday through Sunday. From free champagne for ladies on Wednesday nights to bottomless brunch on weekends, it draws a crowd every day of the week (except Mondays).

For Calle 23, they realized that most of the Cuban restaurants in the area were casual. “We thought there was no upscale Cuban place with live entertainment,” says Sotiropoulos. Menu items include crab croquetas, grilled octopus and churrasco. There is also a live band Friday and Saturday nights. Now, nearly a decade after leaving their home country, their next venture is a Greek restaurant. Named Kaïa (“from the earth”), the restaurant will be, naturally, on Miracle Mile next to Calle 23 where My Ceviche used to be. “We’re going to do more sophisticated Greek food in a modern design,” says Sotiropoulos. The décor will be mostly earthy and neutral tones and the music will be authentically Greek. The neutral colors will be accented with pink bougainvillea flowers that are native to Greece. Kaïa is slated to open this month.

With an office space right above Calle 23 overlooking their commercial kingdom, the Gables-based company isn’t just taking over Miracle Mile. In February of this year, SP Hospitality Group opened a Crema in Downtown Miami, then one in Davie in March, one in Brickell in April and one in Miami Beach (inside the Faena Hotel) this month. They also plan to open locations in Doral, Dadeland and Coconut Grove. After that, it’s on to Hallandale Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Many of the new locations are franchises. “We’re opening 20 Cremas in Miami-Dade and Broward,” says Sotiropoulos. According to the partners, the Coral Gables location is still the most successful. Between weekend brunchers and weekday

lunchers, the place is always busy.

The cafe isn’t the only restaurant with plans for expansion. A second Calle 23 is expected to open in the Town and Country shopping center by the end of the year, bringing upscale Cuban food to Kendall.

Between all four restaurant brands, the partners are going to have about 30 locations across South Florida. From Copper 29 to Calle 23, from Crema to Kaïa, from Kendall to Coral Gables, it’s SP Hospitality Group’s world and we’re just living in it. ■

COPPER 29 FILLS THE NIGHTLIFE VOID ON MIRACLE MILE

Modern gated acre gem nestled in the middle of Ponce Davis. Elevator, staff room, impact, Sonos system.

| 6,928 adj. sf. | 42,253 sf. lot | $7,800,000

Elegant 2-story home! Fabulous spaces, high ceilings, all impact. Inviting pool, spa, patio with tall privacy hedge.

| 7,172 adj. sf. | 21,879 sf. lot | $6,500,000

287

No Bridge to Bay! Wide waterway, oversized lot. Sold AS-IS with Plans (in approval process).

|

adj. sf. | 22,730 sf. lot | $6,500,000

SOLD! Our Buyer

Stunning brand new modern house, great floor plan and volume ceilings. Guest house and an incredible roof top. 7/8/1 | 7,560 adj. sf. | 23,000 sf. lot | $5,250,000

SOLD! Our Seller

Waterfront updated one-story home. Great views of the pool area and waterway. Impact windows and doors

| 5,318 Adj. sf. | 27,908 sf. lot | Sold for $4,200,000

SHELTON

Investment opportunity! Lowest price/sf. in the area. Wrap around terraces and beautiful lake views. 5/3 | 9,199 adj. sf. | 38,840 sf. lot | $3,450,000

Waterfront property in prestigious Gables Estate. 302 ft. of waterfront. Private dock, no bridges to Biscayne Bay. 6/5/2 | 9,640 sf. | 70,542 sf. lot | Sold for $14,500,000

SOLD! Our Seller

470

- Islands of

Waterfront home fully redone. Chef’s kitchen, all impact, new beach entry pool/dock.

| 6,164 sf. | 20,375 sf. lot | Sold for $4,600,000

Spanish Colonial Estate with classic lines and finishes. Beautiful architectural details. Great for entertaining. 6/5/1 | 6,034 sf. | 32,563 sf. lot | Sold for $3,700,000

See all Miami MLS listings and virtual tours at

Las Brisas Court - Islands of Cocoplum, Coral Gables

7425 Los Pinos Blvd. - Cocoplum, Coral Gables

Costanera Road

Cocoplum, Coral Gables Fabulous

SOLD! Our Seller

Tere Shelton Bernace Broker-Owner 305.607.7212

Consuelo T. Stewart Broker-Owner 305.216.7348

Elba Fernandez Realtor-Associate 305.799.7972

STEWART GROUP

4831 SW 82 Street - Ponce Davis

7370 Los Pinos Blvd - Cocoplum

4860 SW 76 Street - Ponce Davis

11098 Marin Street - Hammock Oaks

601 Leucadendra Drive - Gables Estates

7801 Los Pinos Blvd - Cocoplum

Shop

THE WANDERLUST BAZAAR OWNER, MICHELE ARELLANO IN THE SECOND FLOOR SHOWROOM SHE OPENED IN 2020. SEE PAGE 56.

What’s Hot

FOR MOTHER’S DAY

BY MALLORY EVANS JACOBSON

This month, honor the mother figure in your life with a gift that will make her feel the love and gratitude that she so deserves. Here are five ideas from local shops in town.

1. LET’S LOUNGE

Hanging out under the St. Tropez beach umbrella will make Mom (almost) feel like she’s been transported to the coast of France. It’s perfect for the beach or the backyard, and easily folds up. Retail: $199. Pottery Barn, 358 San Lorenzo Ave. #2115, 305-569-9022, potterybarn.com.

2. DON’T SWEAT IT

Cynthia Lopez-Rivas’ love for personalization led her to create Caprilina, a children’s boutique where she now embroiders clothing for mothers as well. Emblazoned with Mom’s first name and her children’s names on the sleeve, the Mama Generation sweatshirt is a gift that is both heartfelt and one of a kind. Retail: $85. Caprilina, 2151 S. Le Jeune Rd. #303, 305-965-3334, caprilina.com.

3. BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

This recently released tome highlights the vibrant interior design work of Justina Blakeney. With ideas for incorporating striking color palettes, taking cues from nature and drawing inspiration from one’s heritage and travels, “Jungalow: Deorate Wild” will offer Mom a fun escape. Retail: $31.99. Barnes & Noble, 152 Miracle Mile, 305446-4152, barnesandnoble.com.

4. PANDORA’S BOX

Your love for her is infinite, just like the symbolic style behind the Sparkling & Polished Lines ring by Pandora. Crafted from sterling silver and set with cubic zirconia stones, it’s a piece that Mom will reach for over and over again. Retail: $150. Pandora, 370 San Lorenzo Ave., 305-423-2013, pandora.net.

5. SHE’S HIP

Athleta’s Kinetic waist bag is a no brainer for any woman who is always on the go. It’s an easy choice for travel, running errands or chasing toddlers around at the park, and can easily fit a wallet, cell phone and hand sanitizer. Retail: $55. Athleta, 350 San Lorenzo Ave. #2035., 305-441-9581, athleta.gap.com

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Premium views, perfect for couples

Nestled on 76 beautiful, secure acres

Housekeeping and maintenance taken care of

Heated pool and fitness center

Two bedrooms, two full bathrooms

Den and laundry room

Full kitchen

Screened, finished lanai in every residence

choice for all who live and work here. SantaFe

vaccine, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to

A Fair Trade Marketplace

THE CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH’S GIFT SHOP

WORDS & PHOTOS BY GRACE CARRICARTE

As part of his plan for Coral Gables, George E. Merrick envisioned an iconic church to serve as a meeting place in the heart of the city. That church – the Coral Gables Congregational Church – was completed in 1925, and went on to engage the community through service, worship, education, music and the arts. It is no wonder, then, that its former thrift shop turned into the Fair Trade Marketplace 13 years ago, aiming to help support indigenous artisans worldwide.

It was the vision of the church’s Reverend Laurie Hafner and volunteers Mary Eaton and Paula King to embrace the global fair trade efforts to tackle poverty. They created a boutique specializing in merchandise produced primarily by women in developing countries. Like all fair trade marketplaces, their sales help feed the artisans’ families, grow their villages, build schools, pull women out of human trafficking, etc.

I had been to the shop before, but never realized that these beautiful items came from artisans in over 43 countries, or that the profits go directly to the procurement of more merchandise. “The handcrafted gifts, jewelry and accessories are made with pride and skills developed through training programs. The materials used to produce the items are sustainable and eco-friendly – and no child labor is used,” Eaton says.

In our local independent fair trade shop you can find items from India, Vietnam, Nepal, Philippines, Guatemala and other third world countries. Price ranges go from $5 to $250.

They even carry a line of sterling silver from Indonesia, along with clothing and jewelry – even a bicycle-shaped pizza cutter from vendor Ten Thousand Villagers.

Popular items include hand-beaded purses and tunics that are made in India, ranging in price from $28 to $48. There are also baskets made with raffia from Palestine, pot warmers from Nepal, and handmade masks and soap stone hearts from Kenya. In jewelry, they have a new line from Haiti. Eaton, who serves as the current volunteer director of the Fair Trade Marketplace, says that most of their selection is purchased in the fair trade sections of national merchandise shows. “Up until the pandemic, I would attend trade shows up in Atlanta and New York and I would also go to Las Vegas of all places,” she says. “Our pastor is a huge supporter.”

There is no consensus as to when the fair trade movement began. Most credit American businesswoman Edna Ruth Byler, who, after World War II, began selling crafts to friends and neighbors that were made by a woman’s sewing group run by the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in Puerto Rico. The enterprise was then adopted by the MCC as the Overseas Needlework and Crafts Project. Regardless of origin, the fair trade mission remains the same: To tackle poverty through trade, not aid, and to ensure dignity and fair wages across the world. ■

CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH - FAIR TRADE MARKETPLACE. 3010 DE SOTO BLVD (CORNER OF CATALONIA AVE. AND COLUMBUS BLVD.) OPEN THURS - SAT, 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M.

ABOVE: VOLUNTEERS MARY EATON AND PAULA KING AT THE FAIR TRADE MARKETPLACE. BELOW: CUSTOMERS’ PURCHASES SUPPORT ARTISANS FROM MORE THAN 43 COUNTRIES AND HELP FEED THEIR FAMILIES AND GROW COMMUNITIES.

Travel Fashion

THE INSPIRATION FOR MICHELE ARELLANO’S WANDERLUST CLOTHING SHOP CAME FROM BEING ON THE ROAD

BY KIM RODRIGUEZ

Tucked away in an office building in the heart of the Gables is The Wanderlust Bazaar. There is no storefront. But once you enter the second floor showroom you are immediately transported to a resort style boutique that’s just begging you to go on vacation.

The Wanderlust Bazaar is the brainchild of Michele Arellano, a native of Miami with Cuban and Ecuadorian roots. She graduated from FIU with a business and marketing degree, worked in PR and marketing for a few years after, but then decided to follow her lifelong dream of creating a brand that let her express herself through apparel and accessories.

“My inspiration for our store comes from the word ‘wanderlust’ itself,” she says. “It’s the desire to wander, to be curious. The idea first came to me while I was traveling to Mexico. I just felt so inspired and uplifted by the culture and the variety of materials, textures and colors the artisans incorporated into their handmade work. I wanted to bring that bohemian tropical feeling to life with our brand.”

She started her curated concept in 2017, selling online, at outdoor markets and with monthly pop-ups throughout Miami. But it wasn’t until September 2020 that she opened her showroom in Coral Gables.

When asked, “Why mid pandemic?” It was, she said, simply that the time had come. Social media and her in-person events had created such a following that she needed a

showroom to work from and a place for her clients to shop inperson whenever they wanted.

“It was a leap of faith at the time, considering things were still pretty unclear back then. No one knew what the ‘new normal’ would be. Once we opened our doors, my number one priority became keeping our clients safe. I knew it would be a risk opening up a showroom in the middle of a pandemic. But in all honesty, it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

At The Wanderlust Bazaar women ages 14 through 50 – and even older – can shop her airy, bright rooms for some of the newer trends as well as mainstay basics, but always with the free spirited and beachy vibe that we enjoy in Miami. “Our unique product offerings of women’s clothing, shoes and accessories provide effortless and versatile pieces for everyday use. It’s more than just the clothing and accessories we carry; it’s always been about a lifestyle.”

The Wanderlust Bazaar is open 12-5 p.m. daily to anyone (perfect for lunch hour excursions). You can also call ahead to make shopping appointments or do a quick drive by to pick up what you purchased via Instagram. You can follow Arellano and all her new offerings at www.thewanderlustbazaar.com, and on Instagram @thewanderlustbazaar. ■

Kim Rodriguez is a personal stylist and shopper whose clients include many Coral Gables residents. Krpersonalstyle.com.

WANDERLUST BAZAAR IS THE BRAINCHILD OF MICHELE ARELLANO.

A Colorful and Exclusive Collection of Sapphire Jewelry

An independent jeweler for 25 years, Gables Gems in Coral Gables is home to an unsurpassed collection of fine jewelry from the world’s most exclusive and innovative jewelry designers and manufacturers.

Our extensive selection appeals to a wide range of jewelry collectors, from those searching for their first fine jewelry piece, to seasoned collectors who appreciate rare pieces they can’t find anywhere else.

EXPERIENCE Mother's Day IN CORAL GABLES

Explore our Mother's Day gift guide to find the perfect gift ideas for Mom.

Pamper Her

Help her unwind with a relaxing spa day

Schedule a massage with MINT SALON. Book AVANT-GARDE SALON (3) for a blowout. Follow up with a nontoxic manipedi at GLOSS (9)

Surprise Her

Surprise your loved one with a fresh floral bouquet from a local Miami florist BELLE FLEUR (8) Gift her a piece of exquisite jewelry from SNOW'S JEWELERS (4) Warm up her home with a scented candle found at ROSE TREE COTTAGE (5) Make a visit to VIOLETA'S (2) for a stunning home piece that is sure to make a statement

Under $50

Spoil

Start your day with an Australian-style brunch at THREEFOLD CAFE Caffeinate at PASION DEL CIELO and sit outside Indulge in a private wine tasting with WOLFE WINE'S SHOPPE (7)

Make Memories

Decorate her coffee table and expand your art culture with help from BOOKS & BOOKS (6) Partake in a private pottery class at JAMES HERRING STUDIOS (1) Immerse yourselves in a live Spanish salsa dancing show at BELLMONT RESTAURANT.

Her Indulge Her

End the day with delectable cupcakes from MISHA'S CUPCAKES (10)

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Beautiful homes deserve beautiful storage solutions. That’s why we’ve been collaborating with homeowners for over 40 years to design, build, and install custom storage solutions for every room in the home. With a wide selection of carefully-curated premium finishes, accents, and accessories, we’re confident we can create a solution that matches your needs, taste, and style.

©2019 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated.

DANIELLA

Warren Adams

GABLES HISTORICAL RESOURCES AND CULTURAL ARTS DIRECTOR

Warren Adams was born in Kearny, New Jersey, but you would not know that from his accent, cured to rolling, resonant musicality in Paisley, Scotland, where he was raised from infancy by his Scottish parents. He studied at the University of Paisley and in England at the University of York before focusing on historic preservation in Scotland. Adams moved to the U.S. in 2004 to take a preservation planner position in Delray Beach, and from there went on to found the historic preservation department in Boynton Beach. He served as executive director of the Broward Trust for Historic Preservation and as the historic preservation planner for West Palm Beach before being named preservation officer for the City of Miami in 2017. Voluntary roles include chairing both the Palm Beach County Historic Resources Review Board and City of Boynton Beach Historic Preservation Ad Hoc Committee.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

When Adams was named chief of the city’s historic preservation department earlier this year – he felt as if he had landed his dream job. “There are certain places that anybody who works in historic preservation would like to work, where people respect the structures, the art, the culture. One of those places is Coral Gables,” he said. In the United Kingdom, Adams studied planning documents hundreds of years old, often written on parchment paper. Here the past may be less deep, but no less important. “It starts with Merrick’s vision, with the planned city, the City Beautiful movement. We still have that overall feeling of what his original intention was.” Adams will also oversee the Cultural Grants and Art in Public Places programs.

WHAT HE SAYS

“I don’t subscribe to [the notion] that we have to save everything, but we have to save the best examples,” says Adams. “If you have to search for a reason to make something historic, it probably doesn’t rise to meet the criteria. You want to allow room for growth, and obviously you want to encourage good new development, which in 60, 70 years will be the examples we will want to preserve,” he says. “In every community there are always going to be people with differing opinions, from saving nothing to saving everything. It’s all about getting that balance right.” Adams says he recognizes pressure from developers, and that homeowners wish to cash in on rising property values. But, he says, “there is a process we go through.” ■

PHOTO: EMILY FAKHOURY

CORAL

“THERE IS HUGE SUPPORT HERE FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION [BUT] THERE IS A LOT OF ROOM FOR INTERPRETATION ABOUT WHAT IS SIGNIFICANT.”

Learn how your generosity can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

BaptistHealth.net/GenerosityHeals or 786-467-5400.

GENEROSITY HELPS LIFT OUR BURDENS AND OUR SPIRITS

Baptist Health’s Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute is leading the way in the field of Regenerative Medicine in South Florida. This promising science harnesses the body’s natural ability to heal itself to develop therapies that support the regeneration and repair of tissues.

Within the area of orthopedics, the science focuses on treating soft tissues and joints that have lost function due to aging, disease or injury. It addresses the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms, helping treat - and even cure - painful, chronic tendon, ligament and joint issues.

The Institute’s orthopedic physicians perform a range of injection therapies on patients who are candidates for them, including leukocyte-poor Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), bone marrow stem cell, amniotic/umbilical cell and extended-release cortisone, all administered using ultrasound guidance. These minimally invasive treatments are helping individuals live pain-free without surgery.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, our pioneering physicians can further the science of Regenerative Medicine to help more patients experience the joys of movement again.

Generosity Heals.

Bari Newport

Born in Los Angeles, Newport realized early on that she had a calling, rooted in a love of theater that has shaped her life. As a teenager she worked as an acting apprentice at the Williamstown Theater Festival in Massachusetts. She went on to earn a degree in theater at the University of Southern California, and, in 2000, a master of fine arts in theater from The University of Iowa. Before coming to Coral Gables, she held artistic and producing positions at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, the Pasadena Playhouse and the Florida Repertory Theatre in Fort Myers. For the past nine seasons, she has served as artistic director of the Penobscot Theatre Company in Bangor, Maine.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

Newport was tagged to lead GableStage in March of this year, succeeding Joe Adler, who died in April 2020 of pancreatic cancer. “Bari has the rare combination of artistic ability and business skills to run a theater and lead our growth efforts,’’ the GableStage board said in a statement. “We wanted someone who would address the diversity of Miami, have their own voice and creative style, and be a leader who engages the community, board, company, staff and volunteers. Bari will lead us into the future.’’ GableStage plans to reopen its intimate 138-seat theater in November with a production of Arthur Miller’s “The Price,” a play that was in rehearsals when the pandemic hit.

WHAT SHE SAYS

“Theater brings people together in a shared experience that can express a vision of what humanity can be, or what the current state of humanity is,” says Newport. “For me, theater has to do with service. That drives me, gives me optimism, joy and hope. If Joe and I overlap in any way, it is that we attack storytelling with a bold and vibrant vigor.” Like her predecessor, Newport wants theater goers to be entertained and challenged. “Audiences want to be stimulated, and to talk about the experience afterward,” she says. “With each production we have to ask, ‘Why here? Why now?’ Because now, in the midst of the pandemic and racial reckoning, the whole world resonates differently.”

PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, GABLESTAGE

“IT IS A GREAT PRIVILEGE AND HONOR TO WALK IN JOE ADLER’S FOOTSTEPS. I WILL DO MY BEST TO BUILD ON HIS INCREDIBLE LEGACY OF DARING EXCELLENCE.”

PHOTO: EMILY FAKHOURY

Born and raised in Miami, Arleen Regnault has had a passion for beauty since she was a little girl. A Cuban-American, she started her career doing hair and makeup for weddings. She then worked at a hair salon in Coral Gables before striking out on her own.

Arleen Regnault

OWNER, HIGHLIGHT SALON

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT

After 20 years in the beauty industry, Regnault opened Highlight Salon in Coral Gables. It opened in July in the midst of the pandemic. “When I opened they were about to close [everything] again,” Regnault says. Highlight Salon remained open, however, and they kept both clients and staff safe by taking clients’ temperatures before each appointment, sanitizing the salon, and enforcing social distancing in the reception area and at the stations.

WHAT SHE SAYS

“I feel you’re never too old to have your dream come true,” says Regnault. The owner, who turns 50 this year, had been planning to open her own business for three years. Highlight is located at 2255 Ponce de Leon Blvd. “There’s no better place than Coral Gables, especially for my business,” she says. “I never thought about going anywhere else.”

“I FEEL VERY BLESSED TO BE IN THE POSITION THAT I’M IN RIGHT NOW.”

LOOKING FORWARD

PHOTO: EMMA DEL REY

AN INTERVIEW WITH VINCE LAGO, THE NEW MAYOR OF CORAL GABLES

On April 13, Vince Lago was elected the 27th mayor of the City of Coral Gables, by a record turnout of 10,406 registered voters. The previous record was in 2001 (10,271 votes), though that represented a higher proportion of registered voters at the time. Regardless, the current turnout was a jump compared to the last election, which saw 8,572 votes. Lago also won by 21 percentage points, a significant margin compared with the last two elections, which were each decided by a few hundred votes.

Mayor Lago previously served for eight years as a city commissioner, during which time he was the most active member of the commission, writing scores of legislative bills designed to push his agendas on sustain-

Q: TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR VICTORY?

A: We walked to thousands of homes, and we listened, which has been the hallmark of my eight years in public office. It’s all about listening, and being available to handle issues as simple as a pothole or your garbage not being picked up, to something as complex as traffic calming or acquiring a piece of private property and making it into a public park.

Q: WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU WILL DO AS MAYOR?

A: During the first 100 days [after April 30] I am going to do a “listening campaign,” which will engage all residents, the business community, the BID [Business Improvement

ability, environmental protection, traffic solutions, historic preservation, limited development and economic frugality. It was a contentious election, with a great deal of negative campaigning, but Lago proved resilient – even in the face of a last-minute Miami Herald endorsement of his principal opponent, Commissioner Pat Keon. In the end, Lago won the endorsement and approval of nearly two-thirds of the voters, thanks to his years of “open door” policies, his bi-annual town hall meetings, his community engagement and his reputation as a commissioner who listens to the concerns of residents.

We caught up with Mayor Lago shortly after his election victory and asked him to share with us his agenda for the coming years.

District], the Chamber [of Commerce], and the media – one and all who want to sit down and have a discussion about city issues. Their concerns and ideas will be memorialized on the [city] website and show clearly what was brought before us in these 100 days.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FIRST PRIORITY FOR THE CITY?

A: What I would really like to see us deliver is the electronic permitting process.... It’s a roll out which will really benefit the business community and the residents, to ensure that we simplify our permitting process. And it really forces accountability across the board. We always hear complaints about the process, that it’s too bureaucratic, that people are waiting too long... electronic permitting will ensure accountability because

it’s all accessible by key stroke.

The other thing I want to focus on is rolling out the trolleys for Saturdays. Our downtown has been hit pretty hard [by the pandemic] and I think that expanding the trolley service to Saturday will send a real clear message that we are open for business and that we support our business community.

Q: WHAT ARE THE GREATEST CHALLENGES FACING THE CITY RIGHT NOW?

A: The biggest issues that we have right now are financial issues, after Covid. Fortunately, we have been very prudent. We have not had to lay off any employees, we haven’t had to furlough employees. But right now, we need to be very fiscally conservative. That has always been at the core of my principles.

We need to be very thoughtful and very methodical over the next two years to ensure that we don’t compromise services on any front [because] I will not raise taxes.

The second thing that we really need to address, which we are working on, is traffic calming. This is very near and dear to my heart. I passed the legislation that lowered the speed limit to 25 miles an hour, and I was able to get a blanket approval from the county on certain issues like speed humps and traffic circles... What we need to do is slow people down, and make sure they respect our neighborhoods.

Q: OF ALL THE THINGS YOU HAVE PASSED OR ADVOCATED IN THE LAST EIGHT YEARS, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

A: I’m really proud of the Underline, that it is being paid for by developer impact fees and not from tax-payer dollars. This is going to be a transformational project, a linear park through 3 miles of the City of Coral Gables… It’s going to increase quality of life, it’s going to increase property values, and it’s going to change how this community is defined, all for the positive. We have to give credit to Meg Daly for all her work and commitment to accomplish this incredible goal.

Second would be my sustainability initiatives across the board, everything from solar panels to LEED business ordinances,

to a $20 million funding strategy to buy existing private pieces of property and make them into public parks.... There is a nexus between quality of life, property values and open space. Without open space, and without parks, green spaces, and a beautiful canopy, you wouldn’t see our property values... it’s at the core of George Merrick’s vision for the city.

Q: YOU VOTED AGAINST THE RE-ZONING OF MIRACLE MILE, WHICH WAS RECENTLY APPROVED TO LIMIT HEIGHTS TO THREE STORIES WITH A FOURTH STORY SET BACK 10 FEET. AT THE TIME, YOU SAID IT NEEDED TO BE EVEN STRICTER. YOUR THOUGHTS NOW?

A: I fought for a [lower density] that would have forced the fourth floor to be significantly set back, allowing for outdoor dining. I am a big believer in rooftop activation. Those types of dining experiences will only benefit this community. But 10 feet is not a real opportunity to activate the fourth floor… [at this point] I want to see how it plays out, and who takes advantage of this opportunity, and what is brought before us. This [re-zoning] all started three years ago when a massive project came before us to put a nine-story building on the corner of Miracle Mile and Ponce [de Leon Boulevard]. I was adamantly opposed and so were more than 2,000 residents who signed a petition opposing it… [Nonetheless] we

need to offer business owners an opportunity to redevelop their properties. And I see no issue with that. But there have to be limitations and we cannot forget our identity. I am opposed to having massive buildings built on our main drag, which is Miracle Mile.

I am not against development. Development is important to our community, especially as we invite more people to come to this community. But the projects, when we approve them, have to be within the Coral Gables standards. If you are going to step outside of the zoning code, and you are going to have an increase in density or height, there has to be a significant public benefit and public buy-in.

Q: LOOKING FORWARD, WHAT DO YOU THINK OF CORAL GABLES ANNEXING HIGH PINES/DAVIS AND LITTLE GABLES?

A: I am in favor of it, and I think my colleagues are as well… But we need a two-step process, to start with Ponce/Davis and High Pines… That area looks exactly like Coral Gables. It’s a beautiful neighborhood, and we can offer them significant amenities in regard to public safety, and maybe some green space. It will be a great, symbiotic relationship. Then we can move on to Little Gables, which I am still a proponent of bringing into the fold. I think at the end of the day it would help us [with crime] on 8th Street. ■

But the care keeps getting better and better.

Our vaccines are here already… the sta is so well-trained… all the safety programs are in place. And during this pandemic, the whole place keeps running like a well-oiled machine.

We simply can’t imagine a place right now where someone our age could be safer or happier. And every day we tell our daughter—whose idea it was—we’re so glad you knew it was the right place for us.

If you are a senior, or just love one, call us at 305-445-7444 to schedule your safe and comfortable visit today.

We rst moved here for the luxury and the social life, we admit.

“We’ve never been more glad we live at e Palace than right now.”

A FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH

(FOR EVERY AGE)

IS IT ANY WONDER THAT THE CITY’S MAIN NORTH/SOUTH BOULEVARD IS NAMED FOR PONCE DE LEON?

BY J.P. FABER

If you consult the Castle Connolly guide to the top doctors in America, and check the section on Coral Gables, you will notice a preponderance of physicians in the business of beauty. Makes sense. Coral Gables is synonymous with elegance and good looks, and home to the kind of affluent residents who can afford such treatments.

With that in mind, we consulted with local plastic surgeons, cosmetic dermatologists and cosmetic dentists to see what the latest treatments are to reverse the appearance of aging, with a focus on which procedures are right for each stage in life.

AH, YOUTH (20s & 30s)

What young patients most frequently request is an improvement of some unattractive feature that is genetic, says plastic surgeon Dr. Stephan Baker. “In your 20s, you are dealing with things that are improvable, that are inherited. The first thing is usually the nose,” he says. Improvement of the jaw line is another request, especially for those with a “weak” chin.

Next, by your 30s, it’s time for Botox, says Baker. This is a new trend, based on the ability of Botox – or any other comparable neurotoxin – to stop wrinkles from occurring in the first place (versus trying to eliminate

DR. STEPHAN BAKER. CORAL GABLES FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON

them subsequently). By reducing muscular contractions, “It prevents establishing wrinkle lines, such as crow’s feet [at the edge of your eyes] or marionette lines [between your mouth and your cheeks],” he says.

“Years ago, we would not even consider anyone for Botox until 40 or 50,” says Dr. Carlos Wolf, a Gables facial plastic surgeon. “Now we have people coming in their 20s [for Botox], and it’s for a lot of things.” These include for getting rid of what are called “The Elevens,” those vertical forehead lines where the eyebrows meet. “They are looking at their selfies, and seeing Elevens,” says Wolf. “A lot of them are doing it to get rid of that scowling look.”

Relaxing the forehead muscles also accomplishes a slight brow lift, says Dr. Wolf. “So many people think Botox is just about getting rid of wrinkles, but it’s really about upper facial rejuvenation. For young people it makes you look more inviting, more friendly. A slightly arched brow is aesthetically pleasing.”

Melissa Fox, a skin care esthetician who owns and operates Flawless by Melissa Fox on Biltmore Way, says that patients in their 20s and 30s come to her for the rejuvenation of skin tones that have started to look less than rosy. “Patients in their 20s just want to glow, with pretty, dewy skin,” she says, which relies on “a good cleansing and good lifestyle choices.” Her spa performs “hydrafacials” for deep cleaning, especially of pores that have become clogged. “Everyone can have this done for an amazing glow,” she says.

Next comes treatments for hyper pigmentation, or skin spots, which occur in your 30s from not using enough SPF. For this, Fox uses LED light therapy, in particular red light for hyper pigmentation and inflammation (rosacea).

“Facial aging and facial rejuvenation is really a lifelong process,” notes Gables plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Careaga, whose clinic is on Alhambra Circle. “It should begin in childhood by parents being diligent about making sure their kids wear sunblock. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun’s rays and cigarette smoking are the top two controllable causes of premature facial aging.

MIDDLE AGE (40s & 50s)

When you get into your 40s and 50s, says Dr. Baker, it is time to start thinking of surgical procedures in addition to the good skin care habits developed in your 20s and 30s. “It really depends on the individual, whether you have been disciplined with exercise,

nutrition and sun exposure,” says Baker. “You always start with the non-surgical procedures – laser resurfacing, Botox, fillers – but at some point, you don’t get enough return on your investment.”

“For middle-aged patients, from their 40s to their early 50s, we can start with more advanced procedures,” says south Gables plastic surgeon Dr. Johnny Soloman. “By that time, you really see some volume loss, skin sagging and skin changes. Depending on the degree that it is affected, you would consider [surgery for] forehead lifts, eyelid surgery, mini face lifts and lower face lifts. And also, some laser treatments to take care of the skin proper.”

What is most typically treated with surgery at this stage in life are the eyes, especially the drooping upper eyelids, which

“YEARS AGO, WE WOULD NOT EVEN CONSIDER ANYONE FOR BOTOX UNTIL 40 OR 50. NOW WE HAVE PEOPLE COMING IN THEIR 20S [FOR BOTOX], AND IT’S FOR A LOT OF THINGS.”

DR. CARLOS WOLF (SHOWN ABOVE), CORAL GABLES FACIAL PLASTIC SURGEON

“WE USE UNDER-EYE FILLER FOR THE HOLLOWS UNDER THE EYES. IT’S MORE GENETIC THAN AGE RELATED, BUT BY THE LATE 40s AND EARLY 50s IT IS COMMON IN MOST PATIENTS.”

start to look tired. “Excess skin inside of the eyelids can make a person look much older than their stated age,” says Dr. Careaga. “Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, can have a profound effect on a patient’s perceived facial age.” The area beneath the eyes also starts to lose volume, says Dr. Oscar Hevia, a cosmetic dermatologist on Biltmore Way. “We use under-eye filler for the hollows under the eyes. It’s more genetic than age related, but by the late 40s and early 50s it is common in most patients.”

Hevia also uses dermal fillers, which can last a year or two, to erase what are called “smile lines” that form on either side of the mouth. “The skin creases there and that leads to a crease or wrinkle … even when you are not smiling, so you start to

get some fillers in there.” Patients in their 40s and 50s are also starting to see some neck sagging, which shows up as horizontal lines. “We can use filler to conceal or erase those lines, and Botox to get rid of some of the early sagging. Also, we can use threads,” he says, which pull the neck up underneath the skin. “They are not permanent, getting absorbed after a year and half or so, but they give a nice lift.”

Other treatments for excess fat under the chin include “cool sculpting,” says Gables dermatologist Flor Mayoral, a process that breaks down fat and tightens skin using localized cold temperatures. She also uses radio frequency devices for patients in their 40s and 50s, which heats up collagen fibers beneath the skin surface. “Some of them get de-natured and are replaced by new collagen

“IN THE 50s AND 60s, AS THE SKIN OF THE FACE AND NECK BEGIN TO LOSE MORE AND MORE VOLUME, A FACELIFT CAN DRAMATICALLY RESTORE THE FACE TO A MORE YOUTHFUL LOOK.”

fibers. It’s a wonderful way to maintain a youthful appearance.”

Skin damage from the sun in your 40s and 50s – including broken capillaries and color irregularities – can sometimes require the more forceful treatment provided by laser ablation, in which the skin is literally burned off so that it can grow back smooth and fresh. “It kind of breaks down by skin type,” says esthetician Margaret Haley, owner of My Derma Clinic. “We also have a host of different procedures used to address various concerns.” For those with less surface damage, for example, these include intense pulsed light for pigmentation and chemical peels. “A lot of people go to dermatologists for a blue light treatment,” says Haley. “That will take years off of the skin and kill precancerous lesions.”

DR. OSCAR HEVIA, COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST

DR. DANIEL CAREAGA, PLASTIC SURGEON

AND THEN THERE ARE THE TEETH...

A critical part of looking younger and more attractive is our teeth. Procedures by cosmetic dentists don’t really break down easily into age groups, however. It is more of a continuum, says Dr. Laura Davila, DDS (above right), one of the partners at Coral Gables Dentistry. “The biggest thing is maintenance,” says Dr. Davila, by flossing, brushing and coming in for cleanings. “When you are younger you go [to the dentist] twice a year, but as you age you see more wear and tear” – and your mouth tends to be drier, with less saliva to balance the pH after what she calls “an acid attack”

MATURE BEAUTY (60S & 70S)

When patients enter their 60s and 70s, treatments tend to be more aggressive and invasive, especially when it comes to sagging skin. “Loose skin can make you look prematurely old,” says Dr. Baker. “Cleaning up the neck and jowls really makes a difference, and fillers don’t cut it anymore.”

For Dr. Careaga, the time for a facelift or necklift comes with mature age. “In the 50s and 60s, as the skin of the face and neck begin to lose more and more volume, a facelift can dramatically restore the face to a more youthful look,” he says, so long as you restore volume at the same time. “On average, a well performed facelift can take a decade off of a patient’s perceived facial age.”

The loss of facial volume, especially in the upper face, is a key sign of mature aging – and where dermatologists as well as plastic surgeons inject fillers. “The temples and cheeks are the best places to replace

from things like coffee or candy. Her recommendation: Older people should see their dentists every three to four months, at least for a cleaning. They should also arm themselves with top brushing technology, using water picks and rotary toothbrushes. Even with the best of care, however, teeth deteriorate. “They are more calcified, less translucent, and darker as you age, with less enamel, and can’t be easily whitened,” says Dr. Cristina Osorio, DDS (above left), Davila’s partner. For that there is the latest in “onlays,” aka capped teeth. “We do that more with older adults.” The main thing, she says, is to be able to smile.

the fat that disappears,” says dermatologist Mayoral, who uses fillers with hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar in our skins that hold water and keep it plump. “It lasts two years, and you have to do it a few times if you are older. But little by little you start to look much better.”

Other doctors, like Dr. Soloman, use patients’ own fat as the filler. While this is a longer procedure, involving liposuction and multiple tiny injections, the fat becomes part of your body for the long run. And both synthetic fillers and fat transfers become important at this age for the hands, as well.

“Patients in their 50s, 60s, and 70s especially start to worry about their hands,” says Mayoral. “The peculiarity of the hands is that there is a compartment that is separate from tendons, with veins and fat, and once the fat goes you can see the veins. We inject because the hands look boney.” Adds esthetician Haley, “Sometimes it’s not about the face. The neck, the

hands, the chest can look so much older. And the hands have volume loss, but you can address that with fillers.”

When it comes to the face, however, fillers may not be enough at this age, say plastic surgeons. “There is a loss of volume as you age, but if you keep injecting [patients] with fillers, without anything else, it looks like apples in their cheeks.” What has to happen is some sort of face lift as well. “The balance has to be between fillers, Botox and surgery,” says Baker.

Ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules about when a particular operation needs to be done, says Dr. Careaga, “Because not all collagen is created equal. Our DNA codes, our exact breakdown of collagen, is one thing we cannot control… The important things are to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid cigarette smoking, always use sunblock and follow the recommendations of your dermatologist, plastic surgeon and esthetician.” ■

THE FOUNDER’S SON, BRUCE HORNIK, AND GRANDDAUGHTER, JILL, IN THE MIRACLE MILE STORE.

OPPOSITE PAGE: GEORGE HORNIK OUTSIDE THE ORIGINAL STORE ON PONCE DE LEON BOULEVARD..

PHOTO: RODOLFO BENITEZ

THE JEWEL OF THE MILE

WHAT

BY J.P. FABER

It was the end of World War II, and George Hornik had just come home from the Navy, studying watch making on the GI bill. He opened a watch repair stand in Downtown Miami, where his wife Helena also worked in a department store. At the time, Coral Gables had a good reputation as an upscale suburb to Miami, so Helena and George – whose nickname was Jae – decided it was the perfect place to start a small jewelry business.

That first store, on Ponce de Leon Boulevard (above), is where Giardino Gourmet Salads is now located. But Jae wanted to be on Miracle Mile, then being developed by George

DOES IT TAKE TO KEEP A SHOP OPEN IN THE GABLES FOR 75 YEARS? THREE GENERATIONS OF FAMILY, FOR STARTERS.

and Rebyl Zain into a high-end shopping boulevard. The location worked like magic. Flash forward seven decades and the place where George Hornik established Jae’s Jewelers is still standing, still thriving, and now run by his son Bruce and his granddaughter Jill. Together they tend to customers who are themselves the children and grandchildren of clients who bought jewelry from George, along with a new slew of customers that the shop now reaches via the internet. All told, estimates Bruce, Jae’s now has a customer base of about 10,000.

“They don’t buy every month or even every year – maybe for a 10th anniversary or a birthday – but they do return, and we have their buying history and what they like and who their husbands and children are,” he says,

That, in a nutshell, is what longevity is all about, says Bruce. “Our customers have the trust. They wouldn’t deal with anyone else,” he says. “Jill is working with the grandchildren of the people my father sold wedding bands to.” Over the years, Jae’s has also evolved, just as Miracle Mile has evolved, with Bruce Hornik in the perfect place to watch everything change. “When we first started out, there were higher-end stores [on the Mile] because there was no Dadeland, no Merrick Park,” he says. “This was where you went to go shopping. Then the well-funded shops went to the malls, while we continued to get the mom-and-pop store owners.”

Ironically, that personal touch of owner/operators has been an advantage for Jae’s. “It makes [shopping] charming, with individual owners, where they can bend the rules,” he says. “A customer says, ‘I want the cufflink that folds over.’ I say, ‘We can make it that way.’ We have the ability to make decisions, to make it happen. ‘When are you getting married? This afternoon by 5 p.m.?’ I say, ‘We can do it.’”

Bruce himself started working for his dad in 1972, freshly graduated from the University of Georgia, where he majored in business. It was there, he said, that he learned the lesson of retailing: It’s not the homeruns that count, but all the singles that add up. He also learned that inexpensive, entry-level sales are the way to acquire new customers who will later become high-end customers. “We want people to keep coming back for the rest of their lives,” he says.

While Bruce joined the family business almost immediately, his daughter Jill was a little more hesitant. “I was going into public health, with a fast track for a master’s and a pharmacology degree,” says Jill, who attended the University of Florida. “My parents said they would pay for my education if I got a gemology degree. They knew I had a scientific brain, and that it’s all lab work, sitting in front of a microscope.” And they were right. Jill was bitten by the gem bug and became a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America in 2007, and later a Certified Gemologist via the American Gem Society.

Even so, it took five years for her to join the family business; before then she moved to California and worked for high-end watch retailers and jewelers in Newport Beach. “I was a little worried about working with my dad,” she says. “I thought it was going to be more difficult. But my father and I get along great, and he lets me fail to prove a point.”

Even with her degrees, Jill started on the ground floor, so to speak, as the sales manager. It was there that she learned the family philosophy for bonding with new custmers. “We have entry price points for younger people, so that we can create a relationship and become their trusted advisor for all things jewelry and watches,” she says.

Today Jill is in charge of far more than just selling to walk-in Millennial customers. “A majority of the time I am working on busi-

“OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE THE TRUST. THEY WOULDN’T DEAL WITH ANYONE ELSE. JILL IS WORKING WITH THE GRANDCHILDREN OF THE PEOPLE MY FATHER SOLD WEDDING BANDS TO.”

BRUCE HORNIK

2346 PONCE DE LEON BOULEVARD

THEN - 1951

NOW - 2021

ness development and marketing, also inventory management and buying,” she says. “Dad is in charge of anything in the repair shop, plus estate buying and finances.”

Jill has also taken the shop in new directions, especially during the pandemic. “We definitely took a huge hit [from the Covid shutdown],” and even after the store was allowed to reopen, foot traffic remained initailly low, she says. “But we made up for it with digital sales and over the phone.”

As it turns out, Jill had already pushed Jae’s into developing a strong ecommerce site, “so we could direct clients there.” After the pandemic hit, Jill added software that allowed clients to text orders from cellphones, and software that allowed live chats on the website as well as offering financing options. Today they are selling to customers in Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Italy, England and Spain. “We get orders every week from the internet,” says Bruce. “Most are new customers who find us there.”

That does not mean Jae’s walk-in business has vanished. Far from it, and it’s the reason why they remain on Miracle Mile rather than simply become an online business. “The walk-ins tend to be Miami locals or people with second homes here,” says Jill. “We have a lot of people coming from Latin America who want to go somewhere they can trust.”

It is also from locals and “walk-ins” that Jae’s purchases most of its vintage jewelry. It is all part of the circle of life in the business, says Bruce. “When you are young you like everything, but can’t afford anything. In your middle years you buy and wear [the jewelry]. Then when you get older you don’t wear as much. So you give it to the children, or you sell it.” And, hopefully, you sell your old pieces to Jae’s. “I am the buyer, I buy every day, all day long, from the public,” he says, so much so that Jae’s has a wholesale division to market the “estate” pieces. Or they take the out-of-style pieces and repurpose the gems with a new design for the next generation.

That is a special pleasure for Jae’s, says Jill, and part of what attracted her to the jewelry business. “It’s funny. I am not a material person. Everyone thinks I must have the best jewelry in the world, but I am not a fashion person. I think there is meaning in jewelry. Flowers wilt, chocolates melt, but jewelry lasts forever, and there is meaning behind it,” she says. “I own a ring that my grandmother wore, and I think about her every time I put that piece on.” Another reason she was drawn to the business: “Gemstones are miracles of nature.”

“Jae’s is an amazing testament to small business owners that provide great service,” says Francesca Valdes, the city’s retail strategist. “To have that kind of staying power is a testament to Jill and her father to being resilient and working with the times. To invest in new venues of sales is very forward thinking. Jae’s is also a testimony to the community, that they are loyal to their businesses.”

That loyalty is a two-way street. After having served for several years as part of its marketing team, Jill was voted in as the president of the downtown Business Improvement District (BID) in October. “She has come to the board with great new ideas that reflect the times that we are in,” says Aura Reinhardt, the executive director of the BID. “Jill is such a community person and understands today’s customers in the Gables.”

She is also still mad about gems. Last month Jill offered a free one-hour class in gemology to local residents. It was capped at 15 –but more than 70 people signed up. So, Jill has volunteered to teach the class once a month for five months to accommodate all of the interested students. “You don’t get 70 people coming to a yoga class,” says Reinhardt. “That speaks a lot to the business, and to Jill.” ■

OPPOSITE PAGE: GEORGE HORNIK AND HIS WIFE HELENA, AT THE ORIGINAL STORE ON PONCE DE LEON BLVD.

ABOVE: JAE’S JEWELERS TODAY ON MIRACLE MILE, RUN BY THE FOUNDER’S SON, BRUCE, AND GRANDDAUGHTER, JILL.

“THE GALLERY SCENE IS PART OF THE GABLES, IT HAS A HISTORIC PRESENCE HERE AND ENRICHES THE COMMUNITY.”

RAMON CERNUDA, CERNUDA ARTE

THE ART SCENE IN THE GABLES

ART IN PUBLIC PLACES HAS GONE INTO OVERDRIVE IN THE GABLES IN RECENT YEARS. BUT WHAT ABOUT ITS GALLERIES, AND THE ARTISTS WHO ACTUALLY LIVE HERE?

BY DOREEN HEMLOCK AND J.P. FABER

PHOTO: EMILY FAKHOURY

If you go to the City of Coral Gables website and put “Art Galleries” in the search bar, the first thing that comes up is “Where to Go.” Click on that page and you will find descriptions of places like the Venetian Pool and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. There is also is a paragraph entitled Fine Art Galleries. It starts, “Coral Gables is an art lover’s paradise. Known as one of South Florida’s premier centers for the arts, the City is home to dozens of art galleries.”

That statement, by any measure, is now wildly outdated. Once home to more than 40 galleries, the City Beautiful now has a mere handful – perhaps only three truly legitimate and functioning galleries. And just as error filled is the second listing on the Art Galleries landing page: Coral Gables Gallery Night. Click that, and you can get to a map that shows 22 separate stops for that once vibrant Friday night event. Of those 22, a half dozen aren’t galleries, but places where they might have hung paintings that night – the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center, for example, or Books & Books. Of the remaining 16 listings, only five locations are still active, and only three of those are what you would call a true art gallery: ArtSpace Virginia Miller Galleries, Cernuda Arte and The Americas Collection.

The good news is that these three are all superb galleries, representing top artists: Cernuda, with its impressive collection of Cuban art; The Americas Collection, representing artists from Central and South America; and ArtSpace, with its displays of American and European artists, along with Latin Americans.

As for the rest, even before the pandemic, Coral Gables had already become prohibitively expensive for the large spaces that galleries typically require. And when the pandemic hit, adding insult to injury, we lost Conde Contemporary, Tranter-Sinni Gallery, Rojas Ford Fine Art and ArtLabbé – though the latter may eventually reopen.

“The heyday for galleries in Coral Gables was in the 1990s,” says Virginia Miller, who has owned and operated her ArtSpace on Madeira Avenue longer than any other gallery. Miller recalls how Gables Gallery Night was first launched in 1980 and then fizzled in the face of a national economic downturn five years later. Then, it was relaunched in 1991 with five galleries on board. “Gallery Night became so successful it attracted [scores of] galleries by the end of the decade,” says Miller. “[But] rent increases and a need for larger spaces caused many of the galleries to move to less expensive areas or, in some cases, to purchase large, inexpensive warehouses and former showrooms. The three galleries that have survived in the Gables the longest own their own buildings and are not subject to the whims of landlords.”

Miller, like her colleagues at The Americas Collection and Cernuda Arte, initially shut down during the pandemic, shifting to online sales and then slowly reopening for individual clients. “This year the gallery has been open by appointment only with masks required [as we] continue to market our artists’ artwork on the internet,” she says.

At The Americas Collection, a similar pivot took place, says owner Silvia Ortiz. “Covid came unexpectantly, at a time when art was moving in Miami. It has not only affected us and other galleries, but the art world as a whole. We thought we’d be back in two weeks, but it’s been a year since the pandemic started,” she says. “We were able to stay in business only by reinventing ourselves and getting creative. We continue to spread the word through social media … and by combining virtual with guided tours.”

Ramon Cernuda went one step further, driving works of art by truck directly to clients, and letting them pick what best suited their homes. Now his two gallery buildings on Ponce de Leon Boulevard are back open to the walk-in public, with each showroom currently showcasing the work of a particular Cuban master. Currently, one building has an exhibit of paintings by René Portocarrero while the other has a show by Roberto Fabelo. “We have decided to do focus

“THE HEYDAY FOR GALLERIES IN CORAL GABLES WAS IN THE 1990S. GALLERY NIGHT BECAME SO SUCCESSFUL IT ATTRACTED [SCORES OF] GALLERIES BY THE END OF THE DECADE.”

VIRGINIA MILLER, ARTSPACE

exhibitions in the two buildings on a particular artist and we have been happily impressed with the results,” says Cernuda. “Things are moving along very nicely. People are coming back to the gallery.”

Indeed, despite the dearth of galleries in the Gables, those that remain are quite optimistic. “The new and fresh influx of all the people moving into South Florida has created a new demand for art in the recent months,” says Ortiz, whose galleries shows artists from Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Chile, Uruguay, El Salvador and Cuba. “The future seems bright for galleries in Coral Gables as new developments arise.”

Having said that, there seems little the city can actually do to attract more galleries, with the exception of subsidizing them – something it is not keen on doing beyond the ways it already helps small businesses. “I think that the city is doing a lot for small businesses in general and is continuing to support our art organizations that present programming in Coral Gables,” says Catherine Cathers, the city’s Arts and Culture Specialist. But that is not the same as subsidizing rent. “That’s really up to the property owners,” says Cathers, though there are exceptions. The city is currently leasing a temporary space at 290 Miracle Mile to Ninoska Heurta, a pop-up gallery of ultra-contemporary art, at a reduced rate.

Cernuda suggests an outreach to the leading galleries in New York and European capitals, encouraging them to open second outlets here for their high-end clientele. “The gallery scene is part of the Gables, it has a historic presence here and enriches the community. It helps restaurant businesses and brings in a quality traffic of potential clients who are significant spenders. If we could have a good half dozen galleries here, that would make a difference. The city has to support these.”

What the city’s business community has begun to support, ironically enough, are the individual artists who actually create works of art. Beginning with its “Studios on the Mile” project last fall, the Business Improvement District, working with the strip’s biggest landlord Terranova, is creating pop-up, temporary and affordable spaces for painters and sculptors in empty storefronts. Now, some – like Red Herring pottery – have opted to stay, while others are setting up anew on the Mile, thanks to rents lower than those preCovid, at least temporarily.

Among those debuting a gallery-studio in a paseo on the Mile is Gloria Lorenzo, a city resident for 23 years who trained in ceramics and fine arts at Cuba’s top art academy and is known locally for paintings and sculptures that meld geometry and earth tones in dynamic abstractions. “I used to have my studio in northeast Miami. It was far to drive to [and] there was no A/C there,” says Lorenzo from her new, air-conditioned space at 245 Miracle Mile. These days, she loves welcoming guests to the bright gallery and even explaining her latest technique, applying cement over wire and foam to make sturdy sculptures and murals that endure outdoors. Lorenzo hopes city leaders can find ways to make both studios and housing more affordable for artists long-term, “so Coral Gables can flourish as a standard-bearer for art and culture.”

What follows is a look at three artists living and working in Coral Gables who’ve opened a studio or moved to the city recently. They join others profiled years ago by this magazine including Cuba-born Ruben Torres Llorca, known for painting, drawing, sculpture and collage with social commentary and wit; Jamaica-born Jacqueline Gopie, whose joyful paintings of children at play challenge media stereotypes of Black and brown people; and Cuba-born Aurora Molina, known for fiber art and soft sculpture, often with social commentary. Molina, a Gables High graduate, also shares an artist space on Miracle Mile today.

“WE THOUGHT WE’D BE BACK IN TWO WEEKS, BUT IT’S BEEN A YEAR SINCE THE PANDEMIC STARTED. WE WERE ABLE TO STAY IN BUSINESS ONLY BY REINVENTING OURSELVES AND GETTING CREATIVE.”

SILVIA ORTIZ , THE AMERICAS COLLECTION

JANET SLOM

BORN: JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA, 1952.

EDUCATION/TEACHING: MFA, Massachusetts College of Art; Advanced seminars, Yale University; BFA, State University of New York.

Certified mindfulness teacher.

Known for: “Heaven on Earth” painting series. Author of the book, “An Artful Path to Mindfulness” (New Harbinger, 2020).

EXHIBITS/COLLECTIONS: Shows include UMassachusetts; United Nations; F.A.T. Village and African-American Research Library in Fort Lauderdale; Maor Gallery in Miami. Held in the South African Parliament, among others.

WEBSITE: janetslom.com

IN CORAL GABLES: Home studio since 2020. Immigrated to South Florida in 1978. Founded Mindfulness-Based Self-Expression and has taught it at Mindful Kids Miami, Baptist Health, UM and others.

IDEAS ON ART: “The act of making allows me to explore my vulnerability and fleeting presence of life. I am interested in the times where the walls that seem to separate us dissolve. I paint as a metaphoric living, breathing process that holds and releases dynamic tensions where earth and sky dance together as interchangeable parts of the whole. Currently, I am working on an immersive, interactive, multi-media installation expressing the immense beauty and profound inhumanity in our world.”

CARLOS ALBERTO QUINTANA LEDESMA

BORN: HAVANA, CUBA, 1966.

EDUCATION: Studied briefly at San Alejandro Academy of Fine Arts in Cuba, largely self-taught. Lived many places: Spain for 11 years, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, China, New York, Miami.

KNOWN FOR: Large-format oil paintings with expressive figures, or groups of figures – often bald, sometimes mythological, using layers of color and texture.

EXHIBITS/COLLECTIONS: Solo exhibits include Madrid, Miami, Shanghai, New York, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Mexico, Canada, Switzerland, Italy, Germany. Held at Rubin Museum of Art, New York; National Museum of Fine Arts, Havana; Gary Nader Collection, Miami; among others.

WEBSITE: marcstraus.com/exhibitions/carlosquintana-oct-2019

IN CORAL GABLES: Working in a second floor studio on Miracle Mile this year.

IDEAS ON ART: “How do you explain the unexplainable? Besides my studies and practice for years, there are other forces that move this. When I paint, I have a party celebrating color, enjoying the freedom to place color on canvas – in layers, strokes, blotches ... to represent what happens in life. Life is questions. I don’t have the answers. I make some affirmations and observations. I use references from classical art, universal art, from art history. You draw your own conclusions.”

GLORIA LORENZO

BORN: SANTA CLARA, CUBA IN 1954.

EDUCATION: BFA, MFA at San Alejandro Academy of Fine Arts, Cuba.

KNOWN FOR: Paintings, sculptures and ceramics that combine geometry and earth tones in dynamic, abstractions, without human forms. “Use your imagination and feelings to see what it is.”

EXHIBITS/COLLECTIONS: Solo shows in Miami, Spain, Cuba. Group shows include Coral Gables Museum, Art Miami, Havana, Barbados, Arizona. Held at Lowe Art Museum, Coral Gables; National Museum of Contemporary Ceramics, Havana; Manuel Rendon Hall, Ecuador; others.

WEBSITE: glorialorenzo.com.

In Coral Gables: Gallery/studio at 214 Miracle Mile starting this year. Lives in Coral Gables for 23 years.

IDEAS ON ART: “Art is part of my nature. It’s life force, communication, as simple and profound as breathing. When I create, I let the subconscious enter my work. It’s powerful. We’re a store of information and emotions that give form and color to what’s intangible. It’s like painting and sculpting poetry. My experience with viewers has been very gratifying, because each person interprets and feels the creative energy of the work, also creating as they interpret.”

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121 Alhambra Plaza, Suite 1500, Coral Gables, FL 33134

O: 305-489-1901

F: 305-721-1532

M: 786-200-8674

E: ap@tmmiami.com

W: tmmiami.com

What $1.6 Million Will Buy, With Pool, in Coral Gables

Coral Gables single-family homes continue to be in great demand, a consequence of the sudden popularity of Greater Miami for residents of the Northeast who continue to flee high taxes and rough winters. According to Redfin, the median sale price per square foot for a Gables home has increased by 17.6

percent over the last year to $432, with the median listed price for a Gables home now reaching $940,0000. To see what $1.5 million would buy today, we asked three real estate agents to submit one of their homes for sale in that price range – give or take a few hundred thousand dollars.

On the Prado

Listing Price $1.695m

3 bed/4 bath 2,442 sq. ft.

Located on tree-lined Country Club Prado, this 1950 one-story home has an airy, open floor plan and a large, renovated kitchen with wooden cabinetry, granite countertops and a gas range. The pool is set in the property of nearly half an acre, located just three blocks from the Granada Golf Course and the historic lighthouse. Listing Agent: Riley Smith (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty), 305.342.1623

2112 COUNTRY CLUB PRADO

FABELO (b. 1950), Nest of Dogs (Nido de Perros), 2018, oil on canvas, 92 ½ x 79 ½ inches

Listing Price

$1.425m

Urban Living

501 SEVILLA AVE.

3 bed/2 bath. 2,529 sq. ft.

Located on a corner lot just a few blocks from downtown Coral Gables is this bright, airy home with a large pool and covered outdoor patio. The updated, woodheavy kitchen has a center island, while the large family room has a 15-foot ceiling. Impact windows throughout, including the French doors that open onto the pool.

Listing Agent: JJ Snow Hansen (Lowell International Realty), 305.608.8750

Listing Price

$1.648m

West of Riviera

1516

GARCIA AVE.

5 bed/4 bath. 4,534 sq. ft

Located a block from Riviera Country Club, this spacious post-war home (1947) has nice architectural elements – like an exterior stairway for guest quarters – in addition to an oversized two-car garage and a covered patio overlooking the pool. There is also an outdoor BBQ area, a circular driveway and a kitchen with a gas stove. Listing Agent: Belinda Sime (Sime Realty Corporation), 305.669.0755

Splendor in the Garden

Each year, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden puts on its Splendor in the Garden luncheon and fashion show fundraiser. Individual tickets run $1,000 for the joy of supporting the Garden, hanging with other leading members of Gables society, and seeing a runway show with models sporting the latest spring fashions. This year’s 10th annual event went forward, despite Covid-19, with social distancing in place. Presented by Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Neiman Marcus of Coral Gables, the event was chaired by Gables’ philanthropists Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla-Secasa. Funds raised from the event, upwards of $100,000, support the Garden’s programs for tropical plant conservation, science, education and horticulture. ■

1. Frances Sevilla-Sacasa and Swanee DiMare

2. Bronwyn Miller - Marile LopezBonnie Crabtree and Trish Bell

3. Marysol Patton and Kim Wood

4. Judy Woolgar - Bronwyn MillerSwanee DiMare - Stephanie Sayfie Aagaard and Leslie Brown

Rocking It with Rockaway

CELEBRATING OUR POLICE HORSE’S 11TH BIRTHDAY

WORDS & PHOTOS BY GRACE CARRICARTE

Acluster of neighbors and I recently gathered for a special event with two unique members of our Coral Gables Police Department. This beautiful partnership is between a thoroughbred and an officer who has been saving horses since she was 15-years-old: Officer Ashley Sheran and police horse Rockaway.

You may recognize both from the cover of our March issue. I first encountered them patrolling directly in front of my home. Of course, I ran toward them for a quick greeting, carrot in hand. That is when I learned how Officer Sheran rescued Rockaway, then an emaciated former racehorse. “He was thinner, so rehab took longer, and you get attached,” she said. With the approval of Coral Gables Police Chief Ed Hudak in May 2019, Rockaway and Sheran became our first mounted police patrol in almost 100 years. I also learned that

Rockaway turned 11 on March 18. Clearly a birthday party was in order, so we invited horse and rider to join members of the Coral Gables Garden Club near their headquarters at the Biltmore Hotel. A cake was needed, so I ground up carrots, molasses, apples, and barley, and garnished it with lettuce and more apples (a carrot worked best for a candle). We sang happy birthday as Rockaway devoured it.

The horse’s temperament remained implacable as neighbors flocked toward him on bicycles, on foot and even with canes (the elderly). He let everyone pet him, a great lesson about the importance of community engagement. “He enjoys working and likes being around people,” said Officer Sheran.

For the future, Chief Hudak says he is looking into finding Rockaway an equine crime fighting partner. If we are lucky next year, it will be a twotiered cake! ■

TOP: POLICE OFFICER ASHLEY SHERAN AND POLICE HORSE ROCKAWAY IS A BIG HIT WITH CORAL GABLES ANIMAL LOVERS.

BOTTOM: ROCKAWAY TURNED 11-YEARSOLD IN MARCH - TIME TO CELEBRATE!

Turn What You Love into Where You Live

Coral Gables | 19 Tahiti Beach Island Road

$25,000,000 | 6 BR, 7.5 BA | Web# A11003856

Jennifer Goldstein: M 305.968.4492

Pietro Belmonte: M 305.335.1981

Virtually Staged

Miami | 1000 Biscayne Boulevard, 5401

$23,000,000 | 5 BR, 6.5 BA | Web# A11015642

Lourdes Alatriste: M 305.926.5322

Coral Gables | 4880 Granada Boulevard

$2,745,000 | 5 BR, 5.5 BA | Web# A11024464

David Siddons: M 305.508.0899

Coral Gables | 637 Santander Avenue, 5

$1,575,000 | 3 BR, 3.5 BA | Web# A11015701

David Siddons: M 305.508.089

elliman.com

While most may have their sights set on Islamorada or Key West when planning a vacation in the Keys, Key Largo should not be overlooked. And when it comes to southbound Saturday traffic on the Overseas Highway, it becomes the ideal destination for a day trip.

Fortunately for Coral Gables, Key Largo is just an hour’s drive away. That’s when you reach the top of the Blackwater Sound bridge, and see the turquoise waters stretch into the distance. From there you cruise down U.S. 1 (now Overseas Highway), where yes, you will see too much kitsch. Just let the over-commercialization go, because right off the main drag is the real deal. Here are two takes on a day in Key Largo.

THE WET TRIP

Right after you go over Blackwater Sound bridge, and realize you’ve arrived in the Keys, you can stop for lunch at Blackwater Siren just down Yacht Club Drive. This restaurant is a funky dive that can be accessed by land or sea, with a dock for boaters who want to tie-up. When in the Keys, eating seafood is a must. Here the Harvey sandwich is a tradition with grilled Mahi, lettuce, tomato and cheese, plus tartar sauce and waffle fries on the side. Or you can heat things up with the Macho sandwich, which is the same as the Harvey, but with blackened Mahi and jalapeños.

If you look up “things to do in Key Largo,” nearly every search result will be some sort of water activity, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers just about all of them. They’re most known for their snorkeling trips. For just $30 per person, the two-and-a-halfhour excursion takes you to a coral reef about 35 minutes offshore. You’re allotted over an hour to swim with the fish in the bright blue waters. During this time, we saw rainbow fish that came straight out of the children’s book, a stingray and three barracudas. On the way back in, we spotted a manatee while cruising through the channel bordered by mangroves. They also offer kayak and paddleboard rentals and glass-bottom boat tours.

Snorkeling really builds up an appetite. Fortunately, Sol by the Sea is just 10 minutes down the road from John Pennekamp. Located on the property of the four-star Playa Largo Resort, the restaurant is known for its sunset views. We split the spicy conch fritters and tuna poke appetizers, which were both recommended by our server Reina. Continuing on the seafood theme of the day, we had the island fish tacos with a side of sweet potato tater tots and the wasabi tuna

Day Tripping

THE KEYS ARE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

BY J.P. FABER AND LIZZIE WILCOX

burger with a side of mango coleslaw for our entrees. In this tropical setting, you’ll want a cocktail to match the atmosphere, like the Island Spritzer. Made with Leblon Cachaça, strawberry and lemongrass Grey Goose, Aperol, Prosecco, sparkling water and strawberries, it’s refreshing and not too sweet. Toward the end of the meal, we recommend a cool glass of rosé to watch the rose-colored sun sink below the horizon.

KEY LARGO, AT JUST ONE HOUR’S DRIVE AWAY, OFFERS CORAL GABLES RESIDENTS THE PERFECT ESCAPE FOR A DAY. YOU CAN SWIM, SNORKEL, EXPLORE NATURE TRAILS, ENJOY A SEAFOOD LUNCH AND WATCH THE SUNSET WITH A COCKTAIL.

THE DRY TRIP

The Keys are synonymous with seafood, and there is no better place to eat fish right off the boat than at the Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Café. Down Ocean Bay Drive east of the Overseas Highway, it is a working fishery; out back under awnings are tables where you can eat the fish you order from walk up windows. There is a seafood market inside, where the locals go, but we were happy to eat our super fresh hog fish right there, in the breezy shade looking over the marina. A big draw for families.

We drove back north, heading straight up County Road 905 as it splits from U.S. 1. This cuts through miles of native hammock toward Card Sound Road and our ultimate destination, Alabama Jack’s. We stopped along the way for a stroll in Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, a tropical hardwood hammock with miles of nature trails. Once slated to be a massive development, the land was purchased by the state in 1982 and is now home to 84 protected species. We parked outside the entrance and walked down a paved road before taking a dirt road off to the left. It was a great country road, spackled by sunlight, the wind rustling and birds chirping, with no sounds of civilization. An inlet from the ocean appeared on our right, with a series of trails and promontories to explore its shoreline.

We drove north after our exercise, feeling a little more entitled to imbibing at the legendary Alabama Jack’s. This Old Keys hangout still puts on a good show, with country music from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. It attracts all walks, including a fair number of bikers. There was a band in full swing, with a steel guitar player adding the twang. They were out of their key lime pie, but their peanut butter chocolate pie was easy to wash down with a couple of beers. A few boats lazily went down the mangrove-lined canal that runs along Alabama Jack’s, opening onto Barnes Sound. It was a perfect way to end the day, and from here, just 45 minutes back to the Gables. ■

TOP: SNORKELING AT A CORAL REEF ABOUT 35 MINUTES OFFSHORE IN THE JOHN PENNEKAMP CORAL REEF STATE PARK.

MIDDLE: ISLAND FISH TACOS AT SOL BY THE SEA RESTAURANT IN THE PLAYA LARGO RESORT.

BOTTOM: THE BACKYARD CAFE AT KEY LARGO FISHERIES OFFERS FRESH FISH CAUGHT DAILY FROM THE LOCAL WORKING FISHING BOATS.

¡Viva España!

BY ANDREW GAYLE PHOTOS BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

Of the national flavors of the Mediterranean, Spain typically takes third place to the haute cuisine of France and the ubiquitous cooking of Italy. Yet its national fare has given us many popular dishes, from paella and patatas bravas to gazpacho and Tortilla Española.

To define Spain in terms of food items starts simply enough: Take some olives, extra virgin olive oil, fresh vegetables, garlic, chicken, fish, seafood, Iberian cured meats and great wine and you are on your way to creating the essence of the country’s gastronomy.

From there, however, comes the art of preparation, and with that, the sourcing of ingredients. In both categories, Bellmónt Spanish Restaurant soars.

To begin with, proprietor Sergio Bellmónt – who launched the restaurant on Miracle Mile seven years ago with wife Claudia –imports as many of his ingredients as possible directly from Spain. These include his marvelous red piquillo peppers, prepared as an appetizer with goat cheese from Spain (they also appear, sliced, on his sauteed spinach side dish). Likewise, his savory white anchovies come from the cold Atlantic waters off northern Spain, as does most of the seafood served at Bellmónt.

“All of our dishes are Spanish, mainly Castilian, from the center of the country,” says Sergio. “The seafood is flown in fresh three times a week, most of it from Northern Spain. It’s the vegetables – tomatoes, onions, potatoes – that we buy locally. We buy everything fresh.”

What stands out among his imports is the cured ham, Jamón de Jabugo. It comes from the town of Jabugo in the province of Huelva in southwest Spain. Connoisseurs will tell you it may indeed be the best in the world, dark and deeply flavorful, and aged five years from acorn-raised pigs. It is an expensive delicacy, which Sergio carves from the bone with the finesse of a surgeon. You can sample it in the Tabla Mixta with Manchego cheese and Ibérico sausage ($45).

Another standout specialty at Bellmónt is the paella, which is prepared in seven different ways, including with seafood (de mariscos) and with pork (campesina). A good value at $22-$24, but be patient for this dish, which takes at least 25 minutes to prepare (it’s worth the wait).

The most exotic dish prepared at Bellmónt is the whole suckling pig, which must be ordered ahead of time, since it takes four to five hours to cook. This is prepared using red oak in a 14,700-pound cast iron oven that Sergio imported from Pereruela, Spain. You can order it for a party of four ($230) or six ($260). You can also order it as separate dish when Bellmónt offers a prix-fixe menu for their monthly (soon to be weekly) Saturday night flamenco shows, or a

TOP: PROPRIETOR SERGIO BELLMÓNT AND HIS WIFE, CLAUDIA, WITH THE CURED HAM ON DISPLAY. BOTTOM: OUTDOOR SEATING ON THE WIDE MIRACLE MILE SIDEWALK.

“THE SEAFOOD IS FLOWN IN FRESH THREE TIMES A WEEK, MOST OF IT FROM NORTHERN SPAIN. IT’S THE VEGETABLES WE BUY LOCALLY...”

TOP LEFT: SAVORY WHITE ANCHOVIES

la carte ($49, and only an hour’s wait). The taste is simply extraordinary.

It is hard to find a dish at Bellmónt that is not rich in flavor, from the grilled whole langostinas a la plancha from Heulva to the chorizo from Galicia. Even the food that comes from this side of the Atlantic is prepared in unique ways, such as their “hot rock” beef. The meat comes from either Florida or Iowa, grass fed and aged for 29 days, and is seared by each diner tableside on, literally, a hot stone. Even the croquetas are special, filled with either creamy cod or a mix of spinach and Manchego cheese. So much for anyone who thinks all croquetas are similar to the Cuban varieties. Since we last reviewed Bellmónt, there is also the welcome addition of outdoor seating on Miracle Mile. While the temperate weather lasts, this is a great option, and one of the reasons the sidewalks along the Mile were dramatically widened two years ago. Inside remains the same, with its feeling of being in a lovely, upscale café on a side street in Sergio’s hometown of Madrid.

“We’re a local business, run by a husband and wife,” he says. “It’s very familiar, with more of a neighborhood feeling than a formal setting. Our customers come to know who we are.” ■

TOP RIGHT: GRILLED LANGOSTINOS

BOTTOM LEFT: CROQUETAS WITH COD

BOTTOM RIGHT: ROASTED SUCKLING PIG

ABOVE: SEAFOOD PAELLA

May 2021

THE TOP 50 OUTDOOR RESTAURANTS

Usually our dining guide is a listing of the finest restaurants Coral Gables has to offer, sorted by types of cuisine. Once the coronavirus forced dining rooms to shut down, we switched to listing restaurants that were offering takeout options, then those with outdoors dining. Even though indoor dining is allowed again, we’re sticking with our listing of outdoor dining, which feels like a safer bet when venturing out. We list the best establishments that have al fresco dining in some form or another.

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

$$ .......... $25-$40 $$$ ........ $35-$75

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

Prices are per person for appetizer and entrée, no tax, tip or drinks. Prices are approximate.

Bachour

Known for their pastries, Bachour also serves innovative breakfast and lunch items in their expansive courtyard, which has plenty of outdoor seating options and a constant breeze circulating fresh air throughout. $ - $$ 2020 Salzedo St. 305.203.0552

Doc B’s

With some of the nicest outdoor seating on the Mile, this American eatery has the best fried chicken in the Gables, along with wok bowls and a popular shredded brussels sprout salad – not to mention cinnamon swirl pancakes. $$ 301 Miracle Mile 786.864.1220

Eating House

Pre-coronavirus, Eating House didn’t have any outdoor seating, so they made their own. Now there are tables on Ponce and under a tent where two parking spots used to be. An A for effort. $$ 804 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.448.6524

Public Square

This popular re-configuration of the former Shula’s steakhouse still serves great steaks, but with lots of other options (seafood, pasta, sushi, salads) and plentiful outdoor seating on Red Road and San

Ignacio Ave. $$$ 6915 Red Rd. 3221.342.1695

Seasons 52

The restaurant itself is massive –especially for a space on Miracle Mile – which means they have plenty of sidewalk real estate. Their desserts alone are worth the visit. $$ 321 Miracle Mile 305.442.8552

The Globe

Plenty of tables on Alhambra Circle, and wide, open doors, so you can sit inside and enjoy the cooler air while munching on incomparable conch fritters and their famous Globe salad. $ - $$ 377 Alhambra Circle 305.455.3555

The Local

Plenty of shaded seating on Giralda Plaza where you can enjoy their downhome cooking, though we wonder what has happened to their fried chicken. Stick with the warm spinach salad. $$ 150 Giralda Ave. 305.648.5687

Titanic Brewery

The venerable brewery/restaurant next to the University of Miami has teamed up with the university to create outdoor seating on picnic tables in a big yard behind the restaurant. $-$$ 5813 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.667.2537

Yard House

Plenty of outdoor patio seating under umbrellas in the courtyard of The Shops at Merrick Park lets you enjoy their extensive American menu with lots of Asian twists (garlic noodles, Korean ribs,

etc.) $-$$ 320 San Lorenzo Ave. 305.447.9273

ASIAN

Canton Chinese

The only sit-down Chinese restaurant in the Gables now has outdoor seating on Ponce. Their fried rice, lo mein and sweet and sour chicken is just the comfort food we need right now. $$ 2614 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.448.3736

Izakaya

Across from the Colonnade hotel on Aragon, Izakaya is a must for lunch, with lots of excellent specials and the best bento box around. Now they have a few outdoor tables, too. $ 159 Aragon Ave. 305.445.2584

Kao Sushi & Grill

This Miracle Mile eatery has a plethora of tables outside, from tables out on the sidewalk to the entrance-way alcove. Amazing deals on rolls and their Peruvian chaufa fried rice. $$ 127 Miracle Mile 786.864.1212

Khaosan Road

Formerly Bangkok, Bangkok, this Giralda Plaza mainstay – has reinvented itself as the new home for Thai street food. Think you know Thai food? Be prepared for new and delicious tastes. $$ 157 Giralda Plaza 305.444.2397

Malakor Thai Isaan

Malakor prides itself on authentic, tasty Thai food (pork skewers with sticky rice, great pad Thai and Thai

curries). Now they have tables on the Mile. $$ 90 Miracle Mile 786.558.4862

Miss Saigon

Being on Giralda Plaza, Miss Saigon has plenty of seating for excellent, healthy Vietnamese fare. You can’t beat their special pho or their fried seafood rolls. A favorite in the Gables. $$ 148 Giralda Ave. 305.446.8006

Moon Thai

With lots of tables and an umbrella at each, this is a great spot to eat outside if you don’t mind the noise from U.S. 1. Highly recommend: The Japanese house salad (who doesn’t love ginger dressing?) and anything duck. $ - $$ 1118 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.668.9890

Sawa Restaurant & Lounge

Sawa has some of the prettiest outdoor seating at the Shops at Merrick park, with a reflecting pool, greenery and umbrellas – along with Sawa’s parallel Lebanese-Japanese menu. Daily fresh hummus and inventive rolls. $$-$$$ 360 San Lorenzo Ave. 305.447.6555

FRENCH

Brasserie Central

This little slice of Parisian bistro is a tad pricey but top quality. Plus, in addition to seating in the vast Shops at Merrick Park courtyard, they have more tables in the San Lorenzo Avenue underpass for when the rain comes. $$$ 320 San Lorenzo Ave. 786.536.9388

BACHOUR

DINING GUIDE

Chocolate Fashion

This tiny but delightful French bakery café on Valencia now has a handful of tables outside, spreading into the parking spaces street-side. Great for breakfast and lunch; excellent baked goods. $$ 248 Andalusia Ave. 305.461.3200.

ITALIAN

Bugatti

Known for its pasta (it started as a past factory before it became a restaurant), Bugatti’s now has outdoor seating, including next door at the historic Fink house courtyard. $$$ 2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545

Caffe Abbracci

Nino Pernetti’s superb Italian restaurant is both a power lunch favorite for the business elite and an evening gathering place for families and couples. Now it has a dozen tables on Aragon for outdoor dining. $$$ 318 Aragon Ave. 305.441.0700

Fiola

This upscale Italian restaurant offers intimate al fresco dining with tables tucked away on the side of the building facing San Ignacio Avenue or street-side under a tent. Expensive but brilliant cuisine. $$$$ 1500 San Ignacio Avenue 305.912.2639

Fontana

The setting is as elegant as it comes: The Biltmore’s famed fountain courtyard. You can sit under the stars in a covered archway to enjoy classic Italian dishes. $$$ 1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel) 305.913.3200

Portosole

Wonderfully friendly, with open walls and sidewalk tables, this latest entry in the battle for Italian food lovers in downtown Gables serves superb northern Italian food. Great branzino, excellent pasta. 2530 Ponce de Leon Blvd. $$$ 786.359.4275

Salumeria 104

You can sit underneath the alcove overhang or right on the street to enjoy the best shaved Italian meats in town. And don’t miss pasta Monday! $-$$ 117 Miracle Mile 305.640.5547

Terre del Sapore

We love eating here (seriously, they have the best pizza in the downtown), and their small outdoor seating on Giralda west of Ponce has expanded – as has their menu. $$ 246 Giralda Ave. 786.870.5955

Villagio

One of the most popular Italian restaurants in town, with lots of outdoor seating in the Shops at Merrick Park courtyard and down the “tunnel” of San Lorenzo Avenue. Great apple pie dessert. $$-$$$ 358 San Lorenzo Ave. 305.447.8144

LATIN & SOUTH AMERICAN

Aromas Del Peru

There is more to Peruvian cuisine that ceviche, and Aromas Del Peru is the place to discover that. Lots of grilled fish, various stews with white beans, beef, or shredded chicken, creamy shrimp chowder or bouillabaisse Peruvian style. $$ 1930 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.476.5885

Buenos Aires Bistro

Every table has wide, cushioned chairs and couches, under the arches of the Colonnade building. Perfect for relaxing with a cool cocktail, or dining on their Argentine grill – or healthy quinoa and salmon bowl. $$ - $$$ 180 Aragon Ave. 786.409.5121

Caja Caliente

Prior to COVID, Caja didn’t have any tables outside. Now they have tons of tables (all six feet apart, of course) on the sidewalk on Ponce. Great place to enjoy the lechon tacos, voted the best in the state of Florida. $ 808 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 786.431.1947

Divino Ceviche

Divino takes ceviche to another level, along with lots of other authentic Peruvian foods and beer. Add to that their cluster of tables under umbrellas on Giralda Plaza for a winning formula. $$ 160 Giralda Ave. 786.360.3775

Talavera Cocina Mexicana

The only Mexican restaurant in Coral Gables also happens to be its best, with plenty of seating on Giralda Plaza. All your Mexican favorites plus some off-beat authentic dishes, like iguana soup.

$-$$ 2299 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.444.2955

SEAFOOD

Gringo’s Oyster Bar

A shrine for fresh seafood with the tastiest oysters you will find anywhere (as they should be at $3 each). Also, great lobster rolls. Seating in an alleyway on the side of the restaurant with overhead fans, plus out front. $$ - $$$ 1549 Sunset Dr. 305.284.9989.

Mesa Mar Seafood Table

Is this the best seafood place in the Gables? Their customers think so, with super fresh local fish that is heightened by a delicious, inventive overlay of oriental and Latin flavors. Dinner only, in tables along Giralda. $$$ 264 Giralda Ave. 305.640.8448.

Red Fish by Chef Adrianne

The only waterfront restaurant in the Gables, Red Fish was reborn last year after being closed for years from hurricane damage. With the addition of Chef Adrianne, the menu presents a stellar display of gourmet seafood. $$$$ 9610 Old Cutler Rd. 305.668.8788

Sea Grill

Tucked away in a corner of the courtyard at Shops at Merrick Park, plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy Greek style seafood flown in

from the Agean. $$$-$$$$ 4250 Salzedo St. 305.447.3990

SPANISH

Bellmónt Spanish Restaurant

Their new al fresco seating on Miracle Mile is the perfect way to enjoy their very authentic Spanish food (including the world’s best cured ham). $$$ 339 Miracle Mile 786.502.4684

Bulla Gastrobar

Bulla has created a pleasant outdoor space on Andalusia, surrounded by large planters, so guests can enjoy their great selection of Spanish tapas al fresco. Also superb sangrias. $$ 2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 786.810.6215

La Taberna Giralda

Only a few tables out front on the sidewalk, but a spacious, lovely courtyard out back. From tapas to paella, great Spanish food and wine, and amazing lunch specials. $$ 254 Giralda Ave. 786.362.5677

Tapeo Eatery & Bar

The former home to the only Basque cuisine in the Gables, Tapeo has morphed into a popular tapas bar with tastes from across Spain. Lots of seating outside. $-$$ 112 Giralda Ave. 786.452.9902

TIITANIC BREWERY

STEAK

Christy’s

One of the oldest continually operating restaurants in the Gables, Christy’s is famous for its Caesar salad, prime rib and shrimp cocktails. Despite a recent update with modern art, it still has that classic vibe. $$$-$$$$ 3101 Ponce De Leon Blvd. 305.446.1400

Morton’s the Steakhouse

Morton’s in the Gables is not just another Morton’s. Its setting in the Colonnade gives it a unique elegance with outdoor seating under the arches. Prime aged beef, excellent salads. $$$ 2233 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.442.1662

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

Fantastic aged steaks, a seafood tower that won’t quit, and a wine cellar that appears to have no end of its depth – and now tables wrapped around the building, under arches, if you wish to eat outside. $$$ - $$$$ 2525 Ponce de Leon Bvld. 305.569.7995

wood

Perry’s Steakhouse

In the battle for the hearts of steak lovers, Perry’s also brings it with the world’s biggest pork chop and surprisingly good salad entrees. Lots of outdoor seating at the Shops at Merrick Park. $$$$ 4251 Salzedo St. 786.703.9094

MISCELLANEOUS

Bay 13 Brewery and Kitchen

Yes, it’s largely Australian pub food – salmon Rangoon, chicken skewers, meat pies, fish & chips –but the setting is spectacular and the beer unbeatable at this newest hot spot. $$ 65 Alhambra Plaza. 786.452.0935

Fritz and Franz Bierhaus

Massive outdoor patio on Merrick Way for German fare and beer. Enjoy schnitzel and Weissbier in a two-liter boot, sans fear of getting infected with COVID. $$ 60 Merrick Way 305.774.1883

Mamey

It is hard to pigeonhole this new restaurant, with its mix of Caribbean, Polynesian and Thai gastronomy. The good news is that they have massive outdoor seating so you can sample its fascinating new taste palate. $$$ At the Thēsis Hotel, 1350 S. Dixie Highway. 305.667.5611

Pinch Me Gastrobar & Market

Who says there aren’t cool neighborhood pubs in the Gables? And they have a leafy patio out back! Happy hour sliders, bennies and crepes for brunch, and a tasty dinner selection of meat and fish. $$-$$$ 216 Palermo Ave. 786.801.1071

Tur Kitchen

This relative newcomer to the Gables has a wonderfully inventive menu of Mediterranean cuisine, including excellent lamb and Aegean seafood dishes. Elegant seating under the arches along Giralda. $$$-$$$$ 259 Giralda Ave. 786.483.8014

GRINGO’S OYSTER BAR

Twisted Sister

As part of an ongoing series of pop-up performances on Giralda Plaza, contortionist Emily Chu of Rainbow Circus Miami is seen here doing her thing during a recent lunch hour. The pop-ups are part of the Business Improvement District’s campaign to add more life to the downtown. Other performers have included magicians, musicians and jugglers. Be prepared for more. Photo by Amario Jara.