Aventura Magazine March 2023

FOODIE FEVER

IS THE MAGIC CITY THE WORLD’S HOTTEST FINE DINING DESTINATION?

BREWS YOU CAN USE

EIGHT MIAMI BREWERIES AT THE TOP OF THEIR CRAFT

FOOD & DRINK

THE CAMERA EATS FIRST SLIDE INTO THE DMs OF A LOCAL FOOD INFLUENCER

Simon Kim

Interior design by @masinteriordesign

Turnberry and Carlos Rosso are delighted to introduce their inaugural real estate collaboration, ONE Park Tower by Turnberry, featuring architecture by Arquitectonica, interiors by Meyer Davis Studio, and landscaping by Enzo Enea. Set on 184 acres between Biscayne Boulevard and Biscayne Bay within the world-class SoLé Mia master-planned community, it o ers the ultimate resort-inspired tropical lifestyle. Luxurious residences with elegant contemporary interiors and private balconies all showcase breathtaking panoramic views over Oleta River State Park and Biscayne Bay. A rich collection of exclusive indoor and outdoor amenities includes a lushly landscaped garden and private beach with a 7-acre lagoon.

Exquisitely designed condominium residences starting in the $700Ks

Introducing a singularly luxurious resort-inspired tropical community with a private beach and 7-acre lagoon

Photography by Gabor Jurina

Michelin-starred Cote Miami brings elevated Asian fare to the red-hot Miami food scene.

Shawn David, Director of Provident Fine Art

Shawn is a 4th generation art dealer that brings decades of experience to our Worth Avenue gallery. He takes pride in helping clients whether they are building their collection or divesting of pieces they no longer desire.

The gallery always has exquisite works for those with diverse and discerning tastes. Pieces include 19th & 20th century French and American Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism and Contemporary works, always vetted for quality and condition.

Shawn embodies Provident Fine Arts’ passion for exemplary customer service and placing beautiful art into our customers lives.

Call or visit the gallery and allow Shawn to help you with all your fine art needs.

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

16 FROM THE EDITOR

AVENTURIST

19 SPOTLIGHT

Isa Rangel Grutman goes for the gold with a new line of dainty jewelry

20 MUSIC SCENE

Three must-not-miss music festivals

22 THE MIX

Fly high with luxe travel services, plus sip in style at Ralph’s Coffee in Aventura

24 HAPPENINGS

A spectator’s guide to the Miami Open

26 Q&A

Meet the creative force behind Major Food Group’s dining room designs

28 PROFILE

Anita Tillero’s vision for Latin music

30 BUSINESS BEAT

The founders of Coyo Taco dish on what it takes to run a restaurant

32 LIVING WITH IVEY

The truth about toxins in cleaning supplies

STYLE

35 THE LOOK

Brands that give back, plus goddessinspired looks

38 THE EDIT

Our editors’ picks for spring essentials

40 JEWELRY BOX

Shoulder-duster earrings make their mark

42 BEAUTY BEAT

Bath products for hair, face, and body

JOURNEYS

45 WANDERLUST

Experience the American West at ultraluxe Amangiri

50 QUICK TRIPS

Onward to Orlando, two ways

52 HIGH ROAD

The driving force of Rimac Nevera’s all-electric hypercar

54 HIGH SEAS

Speed reigns supreme on Mystic Powerboat’s M5200

SIP & SAVOR

91 OPENINGS

Go Greek at Avra in Sunny Isles Beach

92 LOCAL BITES

96 99

19 KRIS TAMBURELLO

Chef Brad Kilgore launches MaryGold’s in Wynwood, two to try at the Setai Miami Beach, Irish eyes are smiling at the reincarnation of JohnMartin’s in Coral Gables, plus a recipe for a spicy Chinola-based margarita

96 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Let your spirits soar with this pineapple-based aperitivo HOME

99 INTERIORS

A designer gives a postcard-perfect Spanish Mediterranean home a refresh

100 BY DESIGN

Spice up your kitchen with these tips and top trends

GYORGY PAPP

102 ELEMENTS

Bamboo brings a taste of the tropics to home decor

104 INSPIRED LIVING

Three types of transformations for accent walls

SOCIAL STUDIES

107 SEEN ON THE SCENE

Pics from Miami’s most fabulous events

LAST LOOK

112 TRAVEL VIA TASTEBUD

Catch the flavor and flair of the 305 on a food-lover’s dream day out with Miami Culinary Tours

X

ON THE COVER:

PHOTOGRAPHER: TOLGA KAVUT

MODEL:

SIMON KIM

LOCATION: COTE MIAMI

We Speak English Spanish Russian

Editorial Director

Daphne Nikolopoulos

Editor in Chief

Kristen Desmond LeFevre

Creative Director

Olga M. Gustine

Executive Editor

Mary Murray

Associate Editor

Karina Wensjoe

Fashion Editor

Katherine Lande

Automotive Editor

Howard Walker

Travel Editor Paul Rubio

Web Editor

Abigail Duffy

Social Media Editor

Roxy Rooney

DESIGN

Art Directors

Airielle Farley, Ashley Meyer, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto

Digital Imaging Specialist

Leonor Alvarez-Maza

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Allison Wolfe Reckson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jules Aron, Alena Capra, Ivey Leidy, Christiana Lilly, Sara Liss, Judy Martel, Linda Marx, Melissa Puppo, Joe Pye, Luis R. Rigual, Dana Rozansky, Jesse Scott, Liza Grant Smith, Jess Swanson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nathan Coe, Gabor Jurina, Tolga Kavut, Brendan Mainini, Gyorgy Papp, Kris Tamburello

SUBSCRIPTIONS

800-308-7346

FOLLOW US

Publisher Terry Duffy

ADVERTISING

Sales Director Deidre Wade, 561-472-1902

dwade@palmbeachmedia.com

Associate Publisher

Melissa Zolin Schwartz, 561-542-3104 mschwartz@palmbeachmedia.com

Account Managers

Daisy Abreu, dabreu@palmbeachmedia.com

Alex Bari, abari@aventuramagazine.com

Sima Kohen, skohen@aventuramagazine.com

Libby Lekach Roffe, lroffe@aventuramagazine.com

Advertising Services Coordinator

Elizabeth Hackney

Marketing Manager

Rebecca Desir

PRODUCTION

Production Director

Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager

Lourdes Linares

Digital Pre-Press Specialist

George Davis

Advertising Design Coordinators

Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey

Production Coordinator

Ileana Caban

Digital Marketing Manager

Tyler Sansone

OPERATIONS

Chief Operating Officer

Todd Schmidt

Accounting Specialist

Mary Beth Cook

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Ana Coronel

Distribution Manager

Judy Heflin

Logistics Manager

Omar Morales

Circulation Manager

Marjorie Leiva

Circulation Assistant

Britney Stinson

Circulation Promotions Manager

David Supple

IT Manager

Keith Gonzalez

SUBSCRIPTIONS

800-308-7346

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

President John Balardo

PUBLISHERS

EDITOR’S PICKS

GOODS THAT GIVE BACK

As a Florida native, I’ll admit to having an Everglades obsession. I’m loving J.McLaughlin’s commitment to helping heal our River of Grass: Every purchase from their new collection benefits the Everglades Foundation’s efforts to restore and protect the fragile ecosystem.

STYLISH SIPS

After a long day of scouting for style at the Aventura Mall, what’s better than recharging at Ralph Lauren’s charming new coffee spot, Ralph’s?

Pro tip: For the ultimate shopping pick-me-up, order the Ralph’s Espresso Tonic, a spin on iced coffee made with three shots of espresso, tonic water, and an orange slice.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Dining in Miami has become something of a sport. Patrons earn points for landing the toughest reservations, snapping and posting Instaworthy pics and videos of iconic menu items, and discovering under-the-radar gems that fellow foodies have yet to stumble upon. That’s why this month’s issue of Aventura is dedicated to all things food and drink in Miami-Dade.

Despite the challenges that COVID brought to the restaurant industry in many metropolitan areas, the Magic City’s dining scene has remained red-hot. The evidence? The stars awarded citywide in the 2022 launch of the Florida Michelin Guide, plus the veritable who’s who of new eateries helmed by big-name chefs planned for 2023. In short, Miami—long lauded for its beautiful beaches and thriving nightlife—has earned a new feather in its cap as a serious dining destination with international clout. Read more about this sensational shift in Sara Liss’ feature story, “Foodie Frontier,” beginning on page 58.

With so many outstanding culinary options available to Miamians, figuring out where to grab a bite—whether it’s a quick lunch or a luxe night on the town—can cause a serious case of analysis paralysis. In those moments, who can you turn to to point you in a delicious direction? You might head over to your favorite social media app and scroll through your feed for inspo. But what if you could slide into the DMs of a well-known Miami food influencer to get her tips, tricks, and tried-that’s? Dana Rozansky of Instagram’s @miami_foodporn gave us unprecedented access to her back-and-forths with her followers, offering her recs for must-not-miss meals across the Magic City in “Delicious DMs,” starting on page 64.

If a liquid diet is more your speed, don’t miss Joe Pye’s roundup of eight of Miami’s best breweries in “Magic on Tap,” beginning on page 72. From Wynwood to Coral Gables and everywhere between and beyond, these craft brewers are keeping the local beer industry hopping.

I hope you savor this month’s issue. Don’t forget to connect with us on Instagram (@aventuramagazine) for behind-the-scenes content, around-town happenings, and more!

Kristen Desmond LeFevre

klefevre@aventuramagazine.com

Kristen Desmond LeFevre

CAPEHART

Photo by David Vance

AVENTURIST

COVETABLE FINDS, HOT HAPPENINGS, AND MUST-ATTEND EVENTS

SPOTLIGHT RINGING

TRUE

Model, entrepreneur, advocate, mother, and wife Isabela Rangel Grutman can now add one more job to her résumé: jewelry designer and creator of Isa Grutman . Her fi rst collection is a showcase of dainty yet eye-catching jewelry, from delicate ear cuffs and chain anklets to slender bands dotted with diamonds and precious gemstones. To celebrate her design debut, Aventura caught up with the woman at the helm. (isagrutman.com) —Christiana Lilly

Aventura: What was the catalyst for creating a jewelry line?

Grutman: I’ve always loved to style jewelry uniquely and create bold looks with classic pieces. It was hard for me to find the perfect jewelry to execute ear stacks and jewelry styling sometimes. It was then that I decided I was going to create my own jewelry brand. I want women to feel beautiful and confident while wearing my pieces. What style were you going for in your designs?

XI always go for a classic, timeless style that has a bit of edge or vintage feel. I want customers to know that their purchase is a valued investment, and

the pieces will always be a staple in their jewelry collection. Do any of the pieces have a personal backstory?

My birthday just passed on February 9. I wanted to design a piece that meant a lot to me and represented celebration. The lariat necklace is a limited-edition style [that] truly symbolizes how far I have come. What can we expect in the future? We have so many exciting ideas coming soon. It is just the beginning for Isa Grutman, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the hard work and dedication that goes into the brand and concepts.

Isa Grutman’s new jewelry line features classic pieces with precious gemstones and diamonds set in gold.

Electric Energy

Miami’s trippiest music event, Ultra Music Festival, returns to Bayfront Park along Biscayne Bay March 24-26. Heavy hitters on the EDM music scene will take over the turntables, including the likes of Eric Prydz, Kx5 (a collab between Kaskade and deadmau5), Swedish House Mafia, Zedd, Afrojack, David Guetta, Marshmello, Tiesto, and nearly 100 supporting acts. British rapper M.I.A. will also be making a comeback to the Ultra stage, marking her first appearance at the festival since 2014. (ultramusicfestival.com)

Best of the Fests

FESTIVAL SEASON HAS ARRIVED IN THE MAGIC CITY. HERE ARE THREE CAN’T-MISS MUSICAL EVENTS SURE TO GET YOU FEELING THE BEAT.

BY CHRISTIANA LILLY

All That Jazz

Get ready to get down at the Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival, back March 11-12 for its sweet sixteenth year.

Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Charlie Wilson, Ari Lennox, Jodeci, Sean Paul, and other big names in the biz will take over Hard Rock Stadium, plus a Soulful Sunday lineup will spotlight gospel performers. Go for gold or silver ambassador seating to score great seats, restroom passes, tickets to the opening night party, and a parking pass. (jazzinthegardens.com)

Latin Love

Little Havana shuts down for the Calle Ocho Music Festival, a free annual event slated for March 12 that’s part of the Carnaval Miami experience. From Southwest 12th Street to Southwest 27th Street on Calle Ocho, explore music stages, authentic eats, folk dancing, and more. Past celebs to grace the stages at Calle Ocho include Pitbull, Daddy Yankee, Bianca, El Micha, Fonseca, and Yotuel, to name a few. Opt for the VIP passport, which grants access to lounges and backstage hangouts, private transportation, reserved parking, and other perks. (carnavalmiami.com/events/calle-ocho)

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MUSIC SCENE

ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL

ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL

GETTING THERE

THE SKY’s the Limit

THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY TRAVEL IS ARRIVING BY PRIVATE PLANE OR CHOPPER. HERE ARE TWO WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HEAD IN THE CLOUDS WHILE GETTING TO YOUR NEXT DESTINATION IN STYLE.

Chop it Up

Based in Palm Beach and New Jersey, HeliFlite has added a helicopter charter service from Miami’s Watson Island Seaplane Base to and from locations within a 250-mile radius. That means Miamians can be in Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, or Naples (and vice versa) in no time. Clients hop aboard a Sikorsky S-76 helicopter that seats private parties of up to six passengers. Two pilots fly HeliFlite’s fleet of 13 private helicopters, making them both a convenient and safe for way for well-heeled travelers to get to meetings and the “it” events of the season. (heliflite.com)

OPENINGS

NEW Brews

With its checkered floors and iconic hunter green coffee bar, Ralph’s Coffee has opened its first Florida outpost at the Aventura Mall. The designer brand’s drink menu includes special blends of organic coffee from around the world, as well as espresso, teas, Ralph’s Espresso Tonic, and more. Located across from the Ralph Lauren store, it’s the ideal place to rest your feet after wandering the mall with shopping bags. Order a cup of coffee, slide into a cozy bench seat, and catch up with a friend over breakfast, or knock out your work to-do list while you caffeinate in style. (aventuramall.com) —C.L.

In Plane Sight

For flights outside Florida, turn to The Fleet Clubs, a boutique flying club with new terminals in Miami, New York, and Colorado. Members have access to Boeing 737 airplanes with flights to and from Miami International Airport, Long Island MacArthur Airport, and Eagle County Regional Airport. On board, you’ll enjoy luxe amenities like Loro Piana bedding,Venetian glassware and tableware, wine and LVMH spirits, and space for your furry friends to enjoy the ride along with you. Once you’ve arrived, chauffeurs greet you with their fleet of Range Rovers, helicopters, or seaplanes, depending on your travel plans. Vail and Broadway, here we come! (fleetclubs.com) —C.L.

COURTESY HELIFLITE

HAPPENINGS

IT’S A RACKET

THE MIAMI OPEN PRESENTED BY ITAÚ IS AN ANNUAL SPORTS SPECTACLE THAT REIGNS SUPREME FOR TENNIS-LOVING SOUTH FLORIDIANS. HERE’S A LOOK AT WHAT PUTS THE MAGIC IN THIS SIGNATURE MIAMI EVENT, TAKING PLACE MARCH 29 TO APRIL 2.

BY JESSE SCOTT

Five Alive

The tournament has taken many names and forms since its inception in 1985, but the throughline has been world-class tennis on a level seldom seen. In fact, in addition to the four annual Grand Slam events—the U.S. Open, Wimbledon, the French Open, and the Australian Open—the Miami Open is widely considered an honorary “fifth slam” for the quality of its player field.

Stadium Spot

The event returns to Hard Rock Stadium this year, marking its fourth appearance in Miami Gardens since 2019, when the Open moved from its long-time home of Crandon Park in Key Biscayne.

Ready to Launch

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MIAMI OPEN EXPERIENCE

While the championship moments may stick out in the history books, it’s the multifaceted grounds at Hard Rock Stadium that make for oh-so-many memories each year. Including the stadium court epicenter, there are 27 courts total, with 10 used for tournament play and 17 reserved for practice.

To catch as much tennis as possible, venture around to the perimeter courts, where you’ll often find top players warming up (and periodically signing autographs). A schedule of tournament matches and practice sessions is available on-site daily. Pro tip: Early tournament days feature more players in the field, so try to grab tickets for the first few sessions.

Star Showers

In recent years, the Open has been a who’s who of both men’s and women’s tennis stars. Champions have included six-time Miami Open winner Novak Djokovic, Swiss legend Roger Federer, eight-time champ Serena Williams, and Plantation’s hometown hero, Sloane Stephens.

The 2022 event proved to be a jumping-off point for two of tennis’ newest phenoms. On the men’s side, rising Spanish prodigy Carlos Alcaraz took home the win at just 18 years old. Later in 2022, he won the U.S. Open and, by the end of the year, became the first teenager to achieve a No. 1 ranking in the world. On the women’s side in 2022, Poland’s Iga Swiatek defeated Naomi Osaka. Including her Miami Open win, Swiatek has won 37 straight matches— the longest streak in women’s tennis this century.

Be sure to pack your sun protection as the heat radiates through the metal bleachers used on many of the court setups. When you need a reprieve from the action, make an off-court visit to a Miami culinary favorite (Bodega Taqueria and Tequila, SuViche, and Kiki on the River have been on-site in recent years), a tennis apparel boutique for some retail therapy, and even a gondola ride for a bird’s-eye view of the entire event.

For the latest confirmed player lineups and on-site activations, visit miamiopen.com

Dine and DESIGN

INSIDE THE MIND OF DESIGNER KEN FULK’S CULINARY COLLAB WITH MAJOR FOOD GROUP

BY LUIS R. RIGUAL

Designer Ken Fulk thinks of himself as a storyteller of space. Much like a film director constructs new worlds with characters, dialogue, and plotlines, Fulk spins his narratives with color, texture, and details. These cinematic qualities are apparent in all his projects, particularly in his work for Major Food Group, which has yielded numerous restaurants in the United States and abroad. In Miami, Fulk’s auteur approach can be seen at MFG mainstays like Dirty French Steakhouse, Sadelle’s, ZZ’s Club, and Carbone. Aventura caught up with Fulk to learn more about his design inspo in the Magic City. (kenfulk.com; majorfood.com)

Aventura: You’ve been collaborating with Major Food Group for more than a decade. How is that working relationship?

Fulk: We really are partners. They give me a lot of leeway because we see the world through the same rose-colored lens. They all care deeply about all aspects of an experience and realize that the restaurant experience isn’t just about what you eat. It’s about how you feel and remember the space.

XWhat were your thoughts when the company decided to expand to Miami?

It seemed like a wonderful fit, a defining moment. I’ve always been intrigued by Miami and have had this sort of romantic notion about it. It is perhaps one of the most exotic and worldly of American cities. It certainly has a cinematic quality to it.

In your new book, The Movie in My Mind, you describe how you approach much of your work like writing a movie script. Is that the case with the four MFG restaurants here?

Very much so. I think all our projects in Miami exemplify us as directors of these movies. They each start as an idea pitch. For instance, with Carbone Miami I was asked to describe it, and I replied: “It is as if Maria Callas and Frank Sinatra woke up after a torrid affair, and the next morning they were on the Grand Canal.”

One of your most recent restaurants for MFG is Dirty French Steakhouse. What’s the story there?

That one has its own tale. It has little doses of El Morocco, this fantastical place that I never had the privilege to visit, but

Clockwise from top left: designer Ken Fulk; the bar at Dirty French; the dining room at Carbone.

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

BRENDAN MAININI

that I have long held as a vaunted place in my imagination for all its zebra decor. That, paired with this insane disco lounge that we created with rainbow chandeliers, [is like a] beautiful movie.

ZZ’s Club in the Design District seems to have different personalities, with a Japanese restaurant on the first floor and a private club on the second. What was your approach there?

We wanted people to have multiple experiences and for the spaces to holistically speak to one another but not be replicant, to each have their own flavor and flair and excitement.

One interesting aspect of all your Miami eateries is how reverentially you treat the bar. What’s behind that?

I’ve never met a bar I didn’t love. The bar starts the lubrication for the social experiment that is a restaurant, so we pay a lot of attention to it. They’re often the first impression people have of a restaurant. I know it’s cliché but first impressions matter, so we give them a lot of thought.

If you had to summarize what you do in a few words, how would you describe it?

I put things together. It’s like when [MFG partner and chef Mario Carbone] goes into the kitchen and makes something delicious. I take divergent pieces and create a magical whole out of them. That’s what I bring to the party. «

Clockwise from above: ZZ’s Club lounge; Carbone bar; wall design at ZZ’s Club; Sadelle’s bar; Dirty French’s jungleinspired decor.

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

COURTESY OF MAJOR FOOD GROUP

TAKING NOTES X

As creative director of the Miami-based label WK Records, Anita Tillero has worked with some of the hottest names in Latin music, helping artists like Maluma, Wisin, and CNCO hone their creative concepts. “When I listen to music, I find colors. When I listen to lyrics, I find a story,” Tillero says. “That’s how you find a concept with an artist. You listen to the music with them and [you] start thinking about the colors and stories you’re going to tell.”

Fernández. The following year, Universal Music Group hired Tillero to work with Colombian singer-songwriter Feid.

“When I was working at Universal, Feid was just a new artist, and right now he’s on top,” Tillero says. “The most important thing he used to do is be consistent—he never stopped. He was always creating new music, always creating new videos, always creating acoustic versions, always writing, always producing. ... That’s key for new artists.”

BY JESS SWANSON

Growing up in Venezuela, Tillero dreamed of working with musicians and obsessively watched MTV reality shows Making the Video and Making the Band. She studied advertising and marketing, with a focus on photography and videography. However, while she was documenting the 2014 student protests in her home country, government forces destroyed three of her cameras. During a 2015 trip to Miami to visit her cousin, she applied for political asylum.

Initially, Tillero worked jobs at a restaurant and a gym to make ends meet. “When you come here, you have to do what you have to do to survive first,” she says. “Then you start knocking on doors to find new opportunities.”

Those new opportunities came in the form of a graphic design job at Seitrack US, an artist management agency in Miami Beach repping such legendary Latin music artists as Luis Miguel, Los Ángeles Azules, and Alejandro

Her successes caught the eye of Latin music mogul Walter Kolm, who hired Tillero to create content for WK Entertainment. Although her schedule was already chaotic, she picked up a side gig at WildHouse Pictures, producing music videos for artists like Nicky Jam and Marc Anthony. “You have to be learning every single day,” Tillero advises. “The music industry is passing through a new era.”

When Kolm launched the independent music label WK Records in 2020, he named Tillero its creative director. She’s since moved away from her role behind-the-scenes and now directs all the creative content and marketing strategies for more than 30 signed artists. But, she says, she’s still connected to the music.

“You have to have a connection with your artist and understand what they’re thinking and what they want to do. If they’re not in love with the concept and the project, then nothing’s going to happen—they have to feel the passion for it. That’s what I try to do every single day: Make them feel passionate about what they are doing.” «

FROM POLITICAL ASYLUM-SEEKER TO PRODUCTION POWERHOUSE, ANITA TILLERO IS TELLING THE STORIES OF LATIN MUSIC’S BIGGEST STARS

Above: Anita Tillero (center) on set at the “Una Vaina Loca” official video shoot performed by Fuego, Manuel Turizo, and Duki.

BUSINESS BEAT

Creative CONCEPTS

THE TRIO BEHIND COYO TACO TALKS TIPS AND TRICKS OF THE FOOD TRADE

BY LINDA MARX

The restaurant business is notorious for its high rate of failure. So what does it take to have multiple successful concepts and locations with lines out the door? Just ask Sven Vogtland and Alan Drummond, the co-owners of Mexican taqueria Coyo Taco (complete with its adjacent speakeasies and mezcalerias).

The pair met in 2008 while working at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. “I wanted to open a taco concept in the Middle East when I lived there,” says Drummond, “but the timing was off.” On a visit to Miami, the pair saw the potential in then up-and-coming Wynwood, where they opened their first Coyo Taco location in 2014, a move that Drummond calls “one of the best decisions we made.”

Together with chef Scott Linquist, the team has expanded Coyo Taco to Brickell, Coral Gables, South Miami, and Fort Lauderdale,

with a Doral location opening later this year. And then there are the international locales, including Santo Domingo, Paris, and Lisbon, with more expansions in the works.

But Coyo is just one of the concepts that have sprung from the minds of these creative restaurateurs; others include 1-800-Lucky (with Gabriela “Gaby” Chiriboga), The Oasis, Serena Rooftop, Los Buenos, Como Como, and Mezcalista, to name a few. Vogtland and Drummond are also partners in Dante’s Hi-Fi, Miami’s first-ever vinyl record bar.

The keys to their success? “We do quality checks and hire talented people who are specific to the role they will play in the brand,” Vogtland says of their 600 employees. “We

travel a lot together and separately, and stay on top of what we see so we can continue to offer novel food concepts to Miami. This is very important to all of us.”

Adds Drummond: “We also don’t cut corners. We hand-press all of the tortillas at our Coyo locations. We still use Haas avocados for guacamole and import our cheese from Mexico, although we would have a much better margin by using other products. But we get the best quality this way and it’s more authentic, which is at the core of our brands.”

Both Drummond and Vogtland are music buffs, and they say music plays a big role in their plans for their brand, too. Case in point: Travis Scott has performed at the Coyo Taco Wynwood location; performer Leon Bridges and DJ/record producer Kaytranada have been featured at Dante’s Hi-Fi.

“There is so much opportunity now,” Drummond says of the mashup of the food and entertainment businesses. “We’re always on the hunt for what’s missing in Miami. We want to advance the cultural and music side of Miami and push that forward through our food concepts and programming. It is the right time to be opening concepts in Miami.” (coyo-taco.com) «

Scott Linquist, Sven Vogtland, and Alan Drummond at Coyo Taco in Wynwood

Options abound at Asian food hall 1-800-Lucky

Cocktails at Dante’s Hi-Fi listening lounge

LIVING WITH IVEY

House of TOXINS

WHAT COULD BE LURKING IN YOUR CLEANING PRODUCTS AND PUTTING YOUR HEALTH IN JEOPARDY

BY IVEY LEIDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN COE

For most of us, our homes are our sanctuaries, a space where we feel safest and most comfortable. We take pride in decorating and keeping them clean and tidy, but what we might not realize is that the typical home’s air quality may be up to five times more polluted than the air outdoors, according to studies conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Considering that the average American spends roughly 90 percent of their time inside, taking a good look at what affects our indoor air quality can have a huge impact on our health and well-being.

Ironically, what we use to clean our homes are often top culprits. Ever notice yourself holding your breath as you spray an oven or counter cleaner because it irritates your eyes

or causes headaches? It could be doing far more with chronic exposure. The chemicals commonly found in our cleaning products, detergents, and personal care items not only cause direct irritation, but they can also exacerbate allergies, asthma, reproductive and developmental issues, autoimmune diseases, neurological damage, and hormone disruption. Furthermore, just because something claims to be natural, clean, green, or biodegradable does not mean it’s nontoxic. Many brands engage in “greenwashing,” the act of marketing something as environmentally sensitive without following through on those promises. Studies have shown that up to 95 percent of so-called “green” products contain toxic ingredients; this can happen because there’s a huge gray area in which manufacturers don’t have to disclose certain ingredients. For example, the term “fragrance” can cover a vast array of potentially harmful chemicals.

Read on to discover some of the top toxic ingredients and recipes for cleaner swaps.

TOP 10 OFFENDERS

Phthalates: Found in most “fragrances.” Instead opt for unscented, fragrance-free, or products scented with essential oils.

Ammonia: Found in glass cleaners, stainless-steel polish, floor cleaners, and cleaning sprays.

Chlorine: Found in bleach, toilet cleaners, and shower cleaners.

Sodium hydroxide: Found in oven and drain cleaners.

Perchloroethylene (PERC): Found in dry-cleaning products and stain removers.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Common sources include bleach, laundry and dishwashing detergents, disinfectant sprays, and paint.

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Used in nonstick cookware as well as Scotchgard.

Triclosan: Found in antibacterial soaps and detergents as well as toothpaste.

Quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats): Found in disinfectant wipes, sprays, sanitizers, and dryer sheets. For an alternative to dryer sheets, try wool dryer balls.

2-butoxyethanol: Found in allpurpose spray cleaners.

5

NONTOXIC CLEANING SUPERHEROES

CLEANING

DIY NONTOXIC CLEANING PRODUCTS

« For stainless steel: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1 cup distilled white vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, and 20 drops lemon essential oil.

« All-purpose cleaner: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar, 1 1/2 cups filtered water, and 20 drops antibacterial/antimicrobial essential oil of your choice.

« For marble or granite: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1/2 cup isopropyl alcohol, 1 1/2 cups filtered water, 1/2 tsp. pure castile soap, and 20 drops antibacterial/antimicrobial essential oil of your choice.

« For windows: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1 cup isopropyl alcohol, 1 cup filtered water, and 1 tbsp. distilled white vinegar.

« For ovens: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup castile soap or nontoxic dish soap, and 3/4 cup filtered water into a paste. Apply thin layer to oven surfaces and racks. Let sit for 20 minutes. Scrub with a sponge or steel wool to remove any stuck-on grime and wipe clean with a dry towel.

Baking soda: Due to its alkalinity, baking soda is great for killing odor (which is acidic) and breaking down grease and grime.

Vinegar: Because of its acidity, vinegar can dissolve mineral deposits, grease, and grime and kill bacteria.

Alcohol (70 to 90 percent): Kills bacteria, disinfects surfaces, and removes stains.

1 2 4 5 3

Hydrogen peroxide: Works as a nontoxic bleach on stains and whites and kills bacteria.

Essential oils: Many essential oils contain antibacterial/antimicrobial properties. Some go-tos are orange, grapefruit, lime, peppermint, rosemary, cinnamon, lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, clove, and thyme.

« Sink, bath, or shower scrub: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar, and 10 drops antibacterial/antimicrobial essential oil of your choice into a paste. Apply to surfaces and scrub with a sponge or brush.

« For mildew or mold: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide, 1 1/2 cups water, and 20 drops tea tree essential oil. Spray mixture on surface and let sit for 1 hour. Scrub if needed, or simply rinse.

« For floors: In a bucket, combine 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar, 1 gallon water, and 10 drops antibacterial/antimicrobial essential oil of your choice. Use to mop as normal.

« For exercise mats: In a glass spray bottle, combine 1/2 cup witch hazel, 1/2 cup alcohol, 1 cup water, and 15 drops antibacterial/antimicrobial essential oil of your choice.

STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS

SHOP FOR GOOD

BY KATHERINE LANDE

1. Spes goddess pendant with diamonds set in 18-karat gold ($9,300), Faraone Mennella, Via Coquina, viacoquina.com, a portion of proceeds will benefit the Hope for Depression Research Foundation. | 2. Handmade jewelry (prices start at $19.50), Oiya, shopoiya.com, each Oiya purchase feeds a child for a day through the charitable organization ShareTheMeal. | 3. Everglades Foundation collection (prices vary), J.McLaughlin, jmclaughlin.com, a portion of sales will benefit the Everglades Foundation’s Everglades Literacy Program and efforts to restore and protect the greater Everglades ecosystem. | 4. Bombé ring with rock crystal and hammered gold ($25,000), David Webb, Macklowe Gallery, macklowegallery.com, Macklowe Gallery has teamed up with the Promise Fund of Florida to fight breast and cervical cancer, with 10 percent of proceeds benefiting the organization. | 5. Online collection (prices vary), Veronica Beard, veronicabeard.com, proceeds from every online order through the end of March will benefit the Jed Foundation, which protects emotional health and prevents suicide for American teens and young adults. | 6. Pickleball paddles ($110 each), J.McLaughlin, jmclaughlin.com, 15 percent of proceeds from the pink paddles and special in-store and pop-up events will benefit Play for P.I.N.K., a fundraising organization dedicated to breast cancer research and supporting patients. | 7. Assorted pajamas (prices start at $78), Trousseau, trousseaulinens.com, 100 percent of proceeds will benefit underprivileged children and their families through the Little Lighthouse Foundation.

THE LOOK

GOOD GODDESS

GLAMOUR RETURNS WITH FASHION THAT FOSTERS YOUR INNER GREEK GOD

BY KATHERINE LANDE

bag ($898), Cult Gaia, Miami, cultgaia.com

MOUNT OLYMPUS Spring/Summer

STANDARD Gold napa leather sandals ($590), Michael Kors Collection, michael kors.com

ANCIENT HISTORY

Dionysus metallic lizard small shoulder bag ($6,200), Gucci, Miami, gucci.com

OCEAN GEMS

Large pearl collar necklace Dior,

($1,650), Miami,

ROUND AND ROUND

Sculpted cable hoop earrings in sterling silver and gold ($1,350), David Yurman, Aventura, Bal Harbour, davidyurman.com

STYLE NOTES X

MIXED METALS: Shine brightly with both gold and silver.

DETAIL ORIENTED: Wear the look with serpent or oversize pearl accents.

GO LOW:

Opt for a metallic or embellished flat for evening.

GIORGIO ARMANI SPRING 2023

A wardrobe classic never fades with a one-shoulder diaphanous gown.

Mini crystal dust tote ($4,850), Miami, bulgari.com

LITTLE LIFT

Cleo flat gray jewel sandals ($1,490), René Caovilla, Bal Harbour, renecaovilla.com

Full Bloom THE EDIT

NEW VIEWS

Triomphe 04 sunglasses in Milky Peach acetate ($510), Celine, celine.com

Shifting into spring mode always makes me feel like I’m suddenly seeing the world in a whole new way. From my point of view, there’s no better way to celebrate a new season (and make your outlook as stylish as possible) than with a pair of Easter-egg-hued sunnies by fashion-girl favorite Celine.

—Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editor in chief

COFFEE TALK

Party Pink espresso coffee mug ($28), Egg Back Home, Wolf & Badger, wolfandbadger.com

Having been gifted an espresso machine for Christmas, I am now on the hunt for adorable espresso cups. This handmade ceramic mug by Portugal-based Egg Back Home gives me just the excuse I need to enjoy hot coffee even as temperatures rise.

—Mary Murray, executive editor

HAUTE HOME

Aqua Universalis scented laundry detergents and fabric softener ($50 each), Maison Francis Kurkdjian, franciskurkdjian.com

Who said freshening up for the season can’t be impossibly chic? Breathe new life into your home care routine with a scent experience by French fragrance house Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Recalling a beautiful spring day, the aromas of Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian citron, lily of the valley, and mock orange evoke the simple bliss of sun-kissed laundry.

RAIN OR SHINE

Harlequin umbrella ($300), Aspinal of London, aspinaloflondon.com

This spring, I’m looking forward to greeting seasonal showers or sunbeams in style. Aspinal’s chic umbrella in a cherry blossom harlequin print and gray ombre with a leather handle and silver-plated collar certainly sets the tone while providing maximum coverage from the elements. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editor

DINNER IS SERVED

Peacock two-tone pink linen placemats ($115 for set of two) and napkins ($98 for set of two), Themis Z, Via Coquina, Palm Beach, viacoquina.com

Spring, when the hurried pace of season starts to slow down, is my favorite time to entertain outdoors.

To complement everything blooming, I like to set a cheerful table, and these linens with their happy pink swirls really say “spring” to me. Throw in a cocktail with some edible flowers and the scene is set. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director

FLOWER POWER

Virgule flower bow slingback pumps in yellow ($2,125), Roger Vivier, rogervivier.com

Everything is coming up roses with these (almost) too-pretty-to-wear kitten heels. The pastel floral appliqués and pink bows not only look like mini bouquets, but they’re also perfect accents to dress up your go-to pair of denim or cocktail mini. —Katherine Lande, fashion editor

PUT SOME SPRING IN YOUR STEP WITH OUR EDITORS’ FAVORITE SPRINGTIME ACCESSORIES AND HOME ESSENTIALS

—Abigail Duffy, web editor

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3

5 6

JEWELRY BOX

Great LENGTH

MODERN SHOULDER DUSTERS GO BEYOND THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW

BY MARY MURRAY

4 9

1. WRECKING BALL Katherine Jetter cage drop earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $7,900. (marissacollections.com)

2. STARDUST Graziela earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $19,950. Neiman Marcus, Coral Gables (neimanmarcus.com)

3. THREE OF A KIND Provident Jewelry chandelier earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold and platinum, $175,000. Provident Jewelry locations (providentjewelry.com)

4. FRUIT PUNCH Eden Presley statement earrings with mixed tourmalines and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $8,995. (edenpresley.com)

5. HOLD YOUR HORSES Sig Ward Manifest earrings with pearls and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $5,780. (sigwardjewelry.com)

6. OPULENT OVALS Anita Ko Hudson pear diamond drop earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $6,775. The Webster, Miami (thewebster.com)

7. BLUE BLOOD Cicada chandelier earrings with aquamarine and diamonds set in platinum, $13,200. Neiman Marcus, Coral Gables (neiman marcus.com)

8. MORNING DEW Guita M floral drop earrings with aquamarine and white agate set in 18-karat gold, $10,200. (guitam-jewelry.com)

9. DROPS OF JUPITER Misahara Plima drop earrings with pink tourmalines and diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, $3,300. (misahara.com)

BEAUTY BEAT

Have a ball in the bath with pampering, decadently fragrant products for hair, face, and body: Krigler Villa America 220 Soap with notes of sagebrush, magnolia, amber, and sandalwood ($85, krigler.com); Borghese Roma Advanced Fango Active Purifying Mud Mask with Siberian ginseng root, chaga mushroom, and bentonite clay ($50, borghese.com); Barneys New York Beauty Sentiage Body Wash Better Than Ever with scent-in-trap technology ($48, barneys-beauty.com); Noeud Soaps in sandalwood-scented Soft White and olive-scented Olive Green ($24, 54celsius.com); Leland Francis Twenty-Nine Botanical Serum with anti-inflammatory, balancing, hydrating, and nourishing sea buckthorn, tamanu, alfalfa, and jasmine oils to protect and brighten ($90, lelandfrancis.com); Kevin Murphy Scalp.Spa Treatment Calming Foam Masque ($45, kevinmurphy.com.au); and Shikohin Revitalizing Body Scrub with exfoliating hemp fiber and rice extract ($36, shikohin.com). —Abigail Duffy

DIVE IN

All true one of the best professional realtors in our business today. —Mike B.

Very professional and an experienced negotiator. I’d recommend to anyone looking for a results driven and a market knowledgeable professional able to help you realize the full market potential of your property. It also helps that he is multilingual and able to deal in several languages. Bravo and thanks Rafael for helping us. —Stan D.

9401 COLLINS AVE #805 SURFSIDE

19101 MYSTIC POINTE DRIVE #2901 AVENTURA

21050 NE 38TH AVE #2902 AVENTURA

20201 E COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE #603 AVENTURA

ShowStopping Bloom

Mixing her passion and creativity, Leslie started Petalia, her floral business in 2019. Initially focusing on daily and weekly flower arrangements, she broadened her scope to bringing magic to fashion presentations, new product launches, exquisite banquets, and fancy celebrations of all shapes and sizes. Leslie has been creating timeless, artisan floral designs, lending her impeccable attention to detail and true appreciation for beauty and elegance to her clients. Petalia seeks out the best available local materials by working closely with a small network of floral providers. She specializes in floral combinations with distinct color palettes, unusual foliage, textures, and show-stopping blooms. Petalia prefers not to duplicate designs. Instead, she likes to meet her clients, explore thoughts and ideas together and then devise one-off custom creations. Constantly inventing, exploring, and pushing boundaries—that is what

Petalia By Leslie does for her clients.

PETALIA BY LESLIE

For more information: 305-606-7101 or instagram @petaliabyleslie

JOURNEYS

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

FANTASY DESERT

MORE THAN DREAMY INSTAGRAM FODDER, AMANGIRI IS THE PINNACLE OF ULTRA-LUXURY IN THE HEART OF THE AMERICAN WEST

BY PAUL RUBIO

It’s no secret that social media has fostered an alternate reality enhanced through stateof-the-art filters, artistic apps, and savvy influencers crafting aspirational content. Nothing is spared from excessive revision nowadays, including travel destinations and resorts. Yet among the virtual noise, it’s still possible to discover raw beauty in its purest form, something that equally wows on screen and off.

Such is the case at Amangiri, a remote retreat that’s set Instagram ablaze as a veritable architectural dreamscape ensconced among the red-rock bluffs, high-rising mesas, and striking canyons of the Utah-Arizona border. Using the 165-million-year-old Colorado Plateau—a weathered land painted by geology—as a blank canvas, Amangiri designers created an extraordinary space for appreciating the magic of the American West while becoming a part of it. At the same

time, the property delivers on all the ultra-luxe hallmarks synonymous with Aman Resorts—exclusivity, privacy, serenity, and excellence in gastronomy, wellness, and service—culminating in quite possibly the top resort in the United States and a spot every bit worth the online hype.

After snaking through the desolate desert roads of northern Arizona to reach Canyon Point, Utah, a mirage of Amangiri begins to take shape. At closer approach, it’s clear this is no optical

illusion: A 34-suite modernist resort is at once delicately etched into the sandstone itself and thoughtfully strewn across vast acreage.

At Amangiri’s core lies a sprawling living and dining space, dotted with crackling fireplaces, edged by double-story windows, and linked to a heated swimming pool hewn into the rugged terrain. With its one-ofa-kind design, the pool surfaces as a peninsula framed by umbrella-capped daybeds on one side, chaise lounges and towering raw earth on the others. A series of suites can be found past both ends of the main pavilion, accessible through open-air concrete corridors embellished with almond trees, hydrotherapy features that mimic the erosion process, and seating nooks for taking in the ethereal scene. Each outward-facing suite is a study in understated elegance, where clean lines cross over natural timbers, white stone floors, and oversize glass panes, channeling attention to the desert panoramas that surround. A private outdoor

Clockwise from top left: At Amangiri, marvel at the pool etched into the surrounding sandstone, the high-design fitness center, the loungers among the desert terrain, the toasty wellness pavilion, and the dramatic views from the beds.

lounge and fireplace heightens the red rock immersion.

Amenities and programming capitalize on Amangiri’s location within the Navajo nation. The Aman Spa offers therapies rooted in the Navajo concept of hózhó , a state of being in tune with oneself and in balance with the world. Each evening, local artisan gifts are placed bedside, from dream catchers to handcrafted oakmoss and sage candles. Daily cultural encounters on-site may include Navajo storytelling, Native American hoop dancing, and dream catcher workshops, while seasonal menus at Amangiri Restaurant feature selections inspired by traditional dishes from the regional Native American communities. A recent Spirit of the Journey tasting menu included a Navajo blue corn fry bread popover, a mesquitesmoked duck salad, and a chili-rubbed crusted elk loin, complementing the greater menu’s pan-Asian and Southwestern fare.

Another highlight of Amangiri’s tribal association is exclusive access to select picturesque slot canyons within northern Arizona. Thanks to Peter Lik’s mind-blowing screensaver photos, the voluptuous and striated Antelope Canyon is now a bucket-list destination. But inch over to Rattlesnake Canyon and Owl Canyon and it’s possible to revel in the red rock glory without the crowds.

These neighboring labyrinths are reserved for Aman guests only, translating to deep thoughts, endless photo shoots, and ambles at your leisure.

Back on property, other activities speak to Amangiri’s extra-special experiences. A Via Ferrata course—one of just a handful in the United States— means scaling mountainsides via cables and ladder rungs and crossing mountaintops over suspension bridges under the tutelage of a skilled mountain guru. A hot-air balloon ride provides a bird’seye view of the undulating, multihued desert backdrops, while horseback rides and designated foot trails offer closer looks on firm ground.

Throughout an Amangiri stay, the service feels elevated without being in-

Activities, clockwise from top left: Hot-air balloon ride; private excursion to slot canyons; yoga amid nature; a Via Ferrata course; crossing cliffs via suspension bridges.

trusive or dizzying. This extends to the guides, waitstaff, and an entire team dedicated to making your visit one for the books. The off-the-charts eclectic cuisine is bundled into the rate, meaning there’s no reason to head elsewhere for meals. And given the experiential nature of the activities and unparalleled location of the property, there’s every reason to leave the outside world behind and venture off-site only for guided encounters. Spend a few days at Amangiri, and it’s hard to believe the concept was envisioned and executed in a time

before social media. The backdrops are some of America’s finest, the architecture skews modern minimalist, and the experience is exactly what desert dreams—and top Instagram content—are made of. The pictures, videos, and curated content may dominate social media, but that doesn’t mean Amangiri is a contrived online fantasy. Rather, it’s a singular resort that has the goods and excellence to back up its high profile and deliver an American West adventure filled with defining moments in real time and in real life. (aman.com)

ZZZZzzzzzz

THE BEST SLEEP GURU IN TOWN

Are you in need of a legitimate beauty rest? Look no further than Aventura Mattress, a one-stop-shop for all your sleeping needs, from custom options that are created just for you to a vast selection of products that were hand-picked by its founder, sleep expert extraordinaire Tania Yumbla.

When you have a health issue, you go to a doctor. So, when you need a great night’s sleep, you must go to an expert who has twenty years under her belt.

Working with interior designers, health providers, chiropractors, etc. Tania explained the benefits and the importance of a good night sleep to prevent any health issues. Many people care only about exercising and diet, without knowing that to achieve a healthy lifestyle, you must have the 3 pillars “sleep, diet and exercise.”

From left: Cross through the soothing water entrance to the Aman Spa and later take a dip in the spa’s heated pool, which is idyllic for après-spa relaxation.

hen buying or selling your home, one of the most important nancial investment decisions you will ever make, you want to be guided by honest, solid facts you can rely on to assure you obtain the outcome you expect. Consulting with an experienced and professional realtor in your neighborhood is fundamental. They are the ones that have access to and are familiar with the essential real estate market particulars in your area.

I am Anita Tchira, your Aventura Resident Realtor for over 20 years, and I know Aventura. I can assist you during this process personally looking out for your interests ensuring a smooth transition.

When you are ready to buy or sell, please give me a call and let me explain how I can help you.

Anita knows Aventura

QUICK TRIPS

Orlando TWO Ways

WHERE ART MEETS TECH

From an art-filled lobby to a 50,000-square-foot sculpture garden, a stay at the Lake Nona Wave Hotel feels like you’ve booked a room atop Orlando’s hottest gallery. The property’s Welltech suites are a showcase in the art of technology, inclusive of Bryte beds that customize, elevate, and score your slumber, as well as drapery and lighting that enhance your circadian rhythms. Here, we spotlight three places to check out at the hotel and in the surrounding community. (lakenonawavehotel.com)

At this Michelin Guide–recommended restaurant inside the Wave, watch transfixed as chef Guillaume Robin prepares dish after delicious dish in his opentheater kitchen. Order a selection of plates to share, including globally inspired standouts like smoked scallops a la plancha, charred pulpo, and ceviche-style hamachi. (bacanlakenona.com)

Jump on the Beep (Lake Nona’s autonomous electric shuttles, available just outside the hotel’s front door) to enjoy hot musical acts and cold beverages at this lively outdoor venue composed of 12 repurposed shipping contain -

ers. Discover a range of culinary concepts and catch live bands and DJs Thursdays through Sundays. (boxiparklakenona.com)

Staying at the Wave earns you access to this adjacent facility that will wow even the most jaded gym rat with its cuttingedge equipment, classes, courts, tracks, pools, saunas, climbing gym, and more. Visit the Edge Sports Performance and Recovery facilities to rehab your hardworking muscles and joints, or unwind at the world’s only Chopra Mind-Body Zone and Spa, where you can stimulate your senses through add-on meditation sessions, sound bath rituals, and Ayurvedic massages and facials. (lakenonaperformanceclub.com)

—Kristen Desmond LeFevre

GRANDE ADVENTURE

Visiting Orlando with kids used to mean schlepping all around town to check every box: easy access to theme parks, a luxe hotel, fine dining, elevated poolside experiences, sporting activities, and all the aquatic adventures. With the recent completion of its new waterpark, Grande Lakes Orlando puts all that (and then some) in one resort destination.

The 500-acre Grande Lakes encompasses The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, as well as golf, tennis, a 40,000-squarefoot spa, multiple pools with decked-out cabanas, and a dozen dining venues, including the Michelin-starred Knife & Spoon. But the

biggest attraction is the new Grande Lakes Waterpark with six zones of fun. Here you’ll find not only a water slide, but an entire slide tower with three slides ranging from mellow to rocketfast. Splash Cove offers activities in and out of the water, including the PlayVenture playground with climbing structures and lawn games. AquaVenture ratchets up the thrills with an obstacle course featuring balance beams, bridges, climbing, and slides. After a day of play, kids love to float down the Lazy River, while parents hang out on swim-up daybeds at the Sanctuary, an adults-only island within the waterpark.

It seems Grande Lakes has accomplished the impossible: making everyone in the family happy. (grandelakes.com) —Daphne Nikolopoulos

WHETHER YOU’RE INTO TECHY DIGS OR COOL AQUATIC ADVENTURES, THESE PROPERTIES AIM TO PLEASE

1. BACÁN

2. BOXI PARK

3. LAKE NONA PERFORMANCE CLUB

Seamless Edge Sinks

LIGHTNING BOLT

THE CROATIAN-MADE RIMAC NEVERA ALL-ELECTRIC HYPERCAR IS A FORCE LIKE NO OTHER

BY HOWARD WALKER

There’s a moment in pretty much every Star Trek episode when Captain Kirk calls on his trusty helmsman, Lieutenant Sulu, to engage warp speed. Then, in the blink of an eye, streaks of incandescent light tunnel ahead and there’s a surge of unrelenting forward momentum.

This is precisely the same sensation you get from standing on the accelerator of an

all-electric Rimac Nevera and feeling the insane 1,914-horsepower thrust. Only, add to it the mild discomfort of your eyeballs being squeezed back into their sockets and your internal organs compressing against your ribcage.

If you could get your fearless passenger to activate the stopwatch feature on your iPhone, you’d see that zero to 60 mph is 1.85 seconds. That’s quicker than a Formula One racecar. Keep your right foot planted and you’ll pass the 100-mph mark in 4.3 seconds. If you are feeling really brave, you’ll keep going until the speedo is showing 258 mph, the official top speed of this Croatian-built cruise missile, making it the world’s fastest production electric hypercar. At this point you must be thinking that this is some weird, one-off, thinly disguised racecar. Not so. Walk into your neighborhood Rimac showroom—there’s one in West Palm Beach and another in Naples—

write a check for roughly $2,450,000, and you could be experiencing the kind of adrenaline rush normally reserved for riders of Daytona Beach’s Vomatron. But don’t dally: Rimac is building just 150 Neveras with more than a third already sold.

Rimac is the creation of Croatian visionary Mate Rimac. From humble beginnings, the 35-year-old now supplies electric propulsion know-how to the likes of Aston Martin, Jaguar, Koenigsegg, Pininfarina, and Porsche, which owns 24 percent of the company. The millennial engineer is so cash-rich that last year he bought Bugatti from the Volkswagen Group.

The flagship of his fast-evolving brand is this astonishing Nevera electric hypercar, which I spent an equally astonishing morning piloting around West Palm. If you were driving along State Road 710 a few weeks back and saw a flash of white soaring by at hugely illegal speeds, that was me. Apologies.

For the Nevera, Rimac has designed, developed, and engineered everything in-house at

his campus on the outskirts of Zagreb, Croatia. That includes the I-beam-stiff carbon-fiber monococque body structure, 120-kWh battery pack, quartet of electric motors, and mind-numbingly complex software that runs it all.

Despite its amazing performance and technical wonderment, the Nevera was always intended to be an “everyday” hypercar you could drive to work or take to dinner—not that you’d want to hand the keys to the kid working the valet.

Pop the switch to open the high-lifting butterfly doors with their cutouts in the roof and then lower yourself into the hip-hugging bucket seat. The cabin is more functional than fancy, with acres of black carbon fiber everywhere. Instrumentation is minimal too, with the touch screen on the center console looking like something out of a Best Buy open-box sale. Three big rotary dials navigate the major controls, including the multitude of drive modes, gear selections,

POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $2,450,000 ENGINE: FOUR ELECTRIC

MOTORS POWER: 1,914 HP TORQUE: 1,714 LB-FT RANGE: 287 MILES EPA 0-60: 1.85 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 258 MPH LENGTH/WIDTH: 187/78 INCHES WEIGHT: 4,378 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT HAS THE POWER TO MAKE YOUR FERRARI FEEL PEDESTRIAN.

and torque distribution settings.

As we slice through the cut and thrust of mid-morning traffic, I feel bursts of that outrageous 1,714 pound-feet of torque on the freeway on-ramp. But what is staggering here is how docile, smooth, refined, and, yes, relaxed the Nevera can feel. The steering is light and precise, the ride is positively Lexus-like, and

the one-pedal braking is a joy.

We ease onto 710 and an empty stretch of four-lane blacktop opens ahead. We slow to a walking pace, dial up Track mode, and then hit it. There, in an instant, is that Star Trek warp speed courtesy of nigh on 2,000 horsepower. Every Nevera should come with a warning sticker on the dash: Remember to breathe. «

Artful BEAUTY

Our mission is to provide our clients with superb surgical and cosmetic results (surgeries, procedures, injectables, and products), in a relaxing and comfortable environment with the highest quality of care.

HIGH SEAS

Into the Wild Blue Yonder

MYSTIC POWERBOATS’ SUPER-LUXE M5200 IS A 2,400-HORSEPOWER ROCKET SHIP

BY HOWARD WALKER

There’s fast and then there’s Mystic fast. The new Mystic M5200 waterborne cruise missile can top out at 80 mph, which results in roughly the same kind of watery eyes as peeling a dozen onions.

This exhilarating, heart-palpitating performance comes courtesy of the latest speed demon from DeLand, Florida–based Mystic Powerboats, a needle-nosed, 52-foot center console with a quartet of 600-horsepower Mercury Verado V12s hanging off the transom. If you’re counting, that’s 2,400 horseys in total.

This is Mystic’s biggest center console to date, and it joins the go-very-fast boatbuilder’s smaller M4200 and M3800 models. While the M5200 is built for speed, it’s also built for comfort. There’s more diamond-quilted, contrast-

stitch upholstery than in a Bentley Continental, as well as seating for 27, a cozy cabin for weekend jaunts, and more cupholders than in a Dodge Caravan. Yes, it makes for a great fishcatcher, but who’d want all that blood and guts messing up the faux-teak flooring?

Best seat—make that seats—in the house? That would be on the forward deck, where you’ll find three stretch-out loungers with armrests, headrests, footrests, and bolstered sides. A surprising omission? Seatbelts. At 80 mph across the Gulf Stream, you might need them.

Then there are all the seating options on the back deck, like the four rear-facing loungers and the four forward-facing seats on the other side. Throw in the three individual race-style pews behind the helm, along with two rows of

four seats behind those, and it’s about as much seating as you’ll find at an AMC multiplex.

While there’s no shortage of supersized, highhorsepower center consoles on the market— from HCB to Valhalla to Pursuit—what sets the Mystic apart is its very cool design. I love the wraparound windshield, and the swept-back, carbon-fiber hardtop seems to house more speakers than at an AC/DC concert.

The wave-piercing hull of the M5200 is an evolution of the proven M4200’s, featuring a foam core with infused epoxy and carbonfiber reinforcements. There are bank vaults less impenetrable. And powering the hull are four magical Verado V12 outboards, which, according to Mystic, can punch the 52 on to the plane from just 17 knots, helped by the Mercs’ two-

speed transmissions. If you’re so inclined, you could opt for Mercury 450R power, in combos of either four, five, or six. But with the V12s being so technically advanced and smoother than hot molasses, why would you?

Time to drop the hook and let the party begin. The aft cockpit can be spec’d with a grill, fridge, icemaker, and separate pullout cooler, while the entire rear deck can be shaded by a retractable awning. And if the only rock and roll you want is on the disco-grade stereo, there’s a Seakeeper 9 gyro stabilizer on the options list to stop the rock and roll at anchor.

While the cabin isn’t exactly generous in size for a 52-footer with a 14-foot beam, it’s plenty big enough for overnights and weekends. There’s the usual forward V-berth that converts into a double, plus a small rear cabin under the cockpit for a couple of kids. The cabin’s best feature may be its spacious head with a separate, full-headroom shower and a glass bowl sink. And at the touch of a button, you can activate the kind of air-conditioning

POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $2.4

MILLION LENGTH: 52 FEET

BEAM: 14 FEET ENGINES: 4 X MERCURY VERADO

V12 POWER: 4 X 600 HP

TOP SPEED: 80 MPH WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE GOING FAST HAS NEVER LOOKED SO STYLISH.

that would give polar bears the shivers.

After taking a walk-through of the M5200 at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where it was making its global debut, I found the boat’s most impressive asset to be its peerless quality. The glass-fiber gel coat, the panel fit and finish, and the stitching on the upholstery are all remarkable—which they should be for Mystic’s $2.7 million nicely loaded asking price. But to be fair, you simply cannot put a price on pulling up to your favorite waterside eatery in this supercar of the seas. «

OUR DOCTORS

Jaime Landman, MD • Zevy Landman, MD • Philip C. Mirmelli, MD

Kfir Shamir, MD • Barry J. Mark, MD • Stacy M. Nassau, MD Ornella Papadias Feria, MD • Jose E. Rojas Camayo, MD

SERVICES & TREATMENTS

Asthma Management • Drug Allergy

Testing • Ear Lavage • Food Allergy Testing

Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots) • Insect Allergy Testing

Patch Allergy Testing for Contact Dermatitis

Penicillin Testing • Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

Skin Allergy Testing • Sublingual Immunotherapy (Allergy Drops) • Xolair

FOODIE

FRONTIER

MIAMI HAS BECOME THE NEXT BIG DESTINATION FOR CELEB CHEFS AND TOP RESTAURANT GROUPS TO OPEN NEW DINING CONCEPTS BOASTING INTERNATIONAL ACCOLADES AND TABLES BOOKED MONTHS IN ADVANCE. HERE, WE TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S NEW AND NEXT FOR THE MAGIC CITY’S RED-HOT FOOD SCENE.

By SARA LISS

It’s been a radical couple of years on the Miami dining scene—a time when internationally acclaimed chefs have transformed once-quiet neighborhoods into culinary meccas, suddenly making the Magic City one of the most exciting food frontiers in the country.

It helps that during the pandemic, Miami proved to be more nimble than most other major cities in America. The result? In the past two years, Miami-Dade County has seen its share of high-profile openings. New York–based Major Food Group embarked on an impressive run of new eateries—from ZZ’s Club in the Miami Design District to Carbone and HaSalon on Miami Beach to Dirty French Steakhouse in Brickell and Sadelle’s in Coconut Grove. Upscale Korean steakhouse Cote opened a Miami sibling to its Michelin-starred New York flagship—and earned its own Michelin star when the Miami guide debuted last summer. Or consider Miami’s Mediterranean wave, launched with the opening of restaurants such as Chicago’s Aba in the Bal Harbour Shops, New York’s legendary Avra at the posh Acqualina in Sunny Isles, Toronto’s Amal in Coconut Grove, and winner of MasterChef Israel Tom Aviv’s Israeli omakase-like experience in Upper Buena Vista.

Miami’s ability to keep restaurants open (and booked) when other cities were on lockdown accelerated local restaurant growth, says Rolando Aedo, chief operating officer of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Throughout the pandemic, we focused a lot on recovery programs for the restaurant industry,” Aedo explains. “I think that helped other entrepreneurs and restaurateurs look to Miami to plant their flagpole. We see the restaurant scene as a way to showcase our community, to showcase our neighborhoods as a destination.”

Lee Brian Schrager, founder and director of the Food Network South

Beach and New York City wine and food festivals, agrees. “Miami was a hot culinary destination before COVID, but I think COVID supersized it quicker,” he says. “Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Fabio Trabocchi—they were all here before COVID. They saw that Miami is no longer a seasonal destination, but a year-round destination with access to New York and South America.”

Another factor in Miami’s newfound fine dining fanfare? The firstever iteration of a Floridian Michelin Guide debuted in2022. With it came a slew of new stars; Miami lead the state with 11 one-star restaurants and Florida’s only two-star restaurant, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. The guide brought clout to the scene for sure, but whether it helped create the local

Clockwise from inset: chef Ambrely Ouimette; Sushi Bar tartare; opposite page: restaurateur Simon Kim.

LIAM BROWN

LIAM BROWN

foodie boom or the foodie boom caught Michelin’s attention is a point of contention. Call it a chicken-and-egg argument: For Aedo, the introduction of the Florida Michelin Guide bolstered Miami’s dining landscape. “Both the Michelin Guide and the influx of new restaurants further support this world-class dining ecosystem,” he says.

Schrager begs to differ on the idea that the Michelin Guide was the catalyst for this growth. “I don’t think anyone opened up because of the guide. I think just the opposite: I think Michelin is here now because of those places. Michelin wouldn’t be here if we didn’t have the right mix and diversity of great chefs and great restaurants.”

Regardless, success seems like it’s here to stay. Case in point? Even more upscale openings are in the works: New York’s famed Pastis is coming to Wynwood sometime in 2023, Thomas Keller is planning to plant his second Miami restaurant in Coral Gables, Gordon Ramsay will open an outpost in downtown later this year, and Massimo Bottura (whose Osteria Francescana in Italy boasts three Michelin stars) is making plans to bring his restaurant Torno Subito to the scene soon.

So, what is the “it” factor that’s attracting this level of major mojo to the Magic City? Restaurateur Simon Kim says that for his brand, it’s more than a simple financial consideration. Kim started looking into expanding

Clockwise from inset: Ziggy Stardust cocktail at Dirty French; Contessa’s blush bar and dining room; chef Mario Carbone of Carbone. All three are Major Food Group restaurants.

MAJOR FOOD GROUP

MICHAEL STAVARIDIS

MAJOR FOOD GROUP

TKTKTKT Captions

Cote to Miami in 2019, originally considering a space in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood. “Opening a restaurant for me is a romantic event,” he explains. “There are a lot of emotions; you get involved, invested, you have to give your all. The first thing I need is to fall in love. And I fell in love with Miami.”

Eventually, Kim found the ideal spot in the Design District. “Miami was becoming a global city—rich in art, culture, fashion, commerce,” says Kim. “Naturally, the restaurant scene was starting to brew. And in nowhere else in America is Latin cuisine as vibrant as it is here, and I wanted to be part of that. I felt like the Design District epitomized the future of Miami—with individual flagship stores

“ MIAMI IS ABOUT HAVING FUN AND SO IS COTE. WE SPOKE THE LANGUAGE OF FUN AND GASTRONOMY. WE GOT EACH OTHER VERY FAST.” —SIMON KIM

From above: Kim and his staff gather around the bar at Cote; Kim inside Cote’s dry-aging room.

TOLGA KAVUT TOLGA KAVUT

and Wynwood nearby with street art, but also how Madison Avenue–like it is—I thought it had a nice juxtaposition. We wanted to be part of this new future of Miami.”

Construction for Cote began in May 2020, when Miami was still deep in lockdown and the future of the dining scene was uncertain. “I could have easily backed out,” Kim recalls. “I made that bold bet, and I’m so humbled and grateful that Miami showed us so much love and welcomed us.”

Indeed, from the moment Cote opened— with its signature high-energy atmosphere, purple-hued entrance hall, and noir-ish glass-enclosed dry-aging room—it was a hit with diners. Skilled servers work in unison to grill premium meats on state-of-the-art charcoal grills inlaid in each table, as an array of Korean pickled vegetables, stews, and richbut-not-heavy sides round out the feast. It’s a beef-centric union of Korean barbecue with a classic American steakhouse. The result is a dinner theater–esque experience unlike anything in Miami. The restaurant attracts everyone from four-tops of serious epicureans slurping up Korean banchan to tables of high rollers ordering seafood platters before feasting on caviar and steak omakase.

“Asian cuisine was under-represented here,” Kim says. “I think we brought that element to create a more diverse ecosystem. Miami is about having fun and so is Cote. We spoke the language of fun and gastronomy. We got each other very fast, with our mutual love of beef and love of celebration.”

For Israeli chef Tom Aviv, entering the U.S. market for the first time with his restaurant, Branja, was a personal decision. His mother,

Michal, had relocated to Miami years ago and had encouraged him to open an outpost of his own in the Upper Buena Vista complex (which she co-founded). Wanting to be closer to family—and noting Miami’s restaurant growth in spite of the pandemic—Aviv decided to heed his mother’s advice and bring his style of Israeli cuisine to town.

“I think what happened in Miami during COVID was amazing,” says Aviv. “I saw an opportunity. I saw a place that was getting stronger, and I felt it. And I see a bit of similarity between Miami and Tel Aviv. I am here; I’ll be spending 80 percent of my time here. And when I’m here you’ll see me behind the stove. This is my American debut, and this is my most precious project right now.”

Born and raised in Tel Aviv, Israel (and possessing zero formal culinary training), Aviv broke onto the international food scene after he won MasterChef Israel in 2016. He went on to open restaurants in Tel Aviv and

Casablanca, Morocco. He’s widely considered the “bad boy” of Israeli cuisine with a large social media presence.

But Aviv’s new Miami venture seems modest and low-key for the gregarious chef who trains in mixed martial arts when he’s not behind the stove. The cozy space features 1970s retro-inspired decor that focuses mostly on a chef’s counter format—the 12-seat bar being the focal point and having been sourced from the Lenny Kravitz–designed Florida Room nightclub that formerly inhabited the basement of the Delano Hotel. “The bar [is] such a Miami icon, and to have it in Branja, it’s very emotional for me,” says Aviv.

In the semi-open outdoor dining room, guests sit at handcrafted terrazzo-top tables and upon reclaimed synagogue benches. A stained-glass atrium hangs overhead, while servers clad in ’70s-era jumpsuits serve dishes of “fishwarma” with mango amba syrup, Kurdish-style risotto with Swiss chard, and a

From left: chef Tom Aviv; retro vibes abound in Branja’s eclectic decor.

RUTH KIM

RUTH KIM

slow-cooked cabbage that Aviv says embodies what the restaurant is all about. “That cabbage dish? We do so many things to it, but eventually what you get is a quarter of a cabbage [that] feels like a short rib. And this is the essence of Branja: less is more. We don’t need belly dancers to give you a vibe and smoke machines to give you nice cocktails. It’s tasty and it’s simple.”

While it appears that some hospitality groups materialized post-pandemic to capitalize on Miami’s momentum, others have been playing the long game for a while. In the case of Klaw, entrepreneur Sasha Krilov and restaurateur Misha Zelman restored the 96-year-old Miami Woman’s Club (located in downtown’s Edgewater neighborhood), retrofitting the historic Spanish renaissance building to house a massive dining

room and rooftop bar.

“The project itself was a seven-year buildout starting in 2015 when Miami was a very different city,” explains Caity Apperson, Operations Alchemist at Klaw. “It came down to two rather simple factors, the main one being the sheer awe that the Women’s Club gave our owner. He was obsessed with the architecture and the history behind the building and was determined to spend whatever it took to revive it to its current state. The second was a location in an upcoming area, at the time that was Edgewater, which has grown exponentially in the past couple of years.”

Meanwhile, at the Bal Harbour Shops, Chicago-based group Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants opened its first Miami outpost with Aba. “Bal Harbour has been a regular getaway location for my wife and I, and the energy of Bal Harbour Shops is contagious,” says Marc Jacobs, executive partner and divisional president of Lettuce Entertain You. “There’s no question that Miami’s dining scene continues

to grow, evolve, and attract more chef and restaurateur talent. We’re excited to be a part of that growth.”

And for Austin-based Sushi Bar Hospitality, bringing their popular omakase-style, speakeasy concept to the Esmé Miami Beach Hotel on Española Way was a no-brainer. “When we found a location in South Beach, steps away from the beach inside of a gorgeous hotel, there was no other option but to put our energy into building a beautiful space and working on a menu that would bring attention to our new location,” explains executive chef Ambrely Ouimette, one of the country’s only female omakase chefs. “Miami has such vibrancy and life and is one of the top vacation spots in the U.S. The food scene is very attractive as well, with so many options for different types of cuisine. However, I do believe the food scene is still growing and specifically the sushi scene is maturing.”

Miami has always had a vital dining scene dotted with influential restaurants. It has had its time before, but the current moment feels different and more reflective of the city’s global aspirations and unique position post-pandemic. Miami is a breeding ground for ambitious, original cooking—a place where cuisines from around the world can be experienced in so many ways. And that makes it one of the most exciting dining cities in the world. «

Clockwise from right: Indulge in Aba’s signature dishes; relax at Klaw’s Mediterranean-inspired rooftop.

KLAW

RUBEN CABRERA

What’s the best local coffee spot to hunker down and get some work done?

Delicious DMs

Can you share a boozy brunch spot that won’t break the bank?

The camera eats first at a local food influencer's picks for everything from fastcasual bites to fancy nights

on the town

I might as well be paying rent at Crema Gourmet. With great coffee, friendly staff, and ample tables inside and out, Crema makes the perfect satellite office (offering eight locations around town). This is my go-to place for a morning coffee or smoothie, but it also doubles as my favorite meeting spot. Plus, they have breakfast and lunch options to keep you fueled up for a long day of work. (cremagourmet.com)

DC Pie Co. in Brickell offers a bottomless brunch every Saturday called Slices & Spritzes. You can enjoy bottomless pizza (yeah, you heard me) and wash it down with unlimited spritzes for $45 (say what?).

Whether you’re looking to employ a “hair of the dog” strategy after Friday night on the town, or simply want to kick-start your Saturday shenanigans, it’s a total move. (dcpieco.com)

Dana Rozansky is a Miami native and the creative force behind @miami_foodporn. But, she warns, she’s not a trained food critic. Instead, she describes herself as a “ravenous chick who likes to dish about food.” Rozansky has more than 500,000 followers and counting across her blog and social media platforms (plus accolades from the likes of CNN and the Food Network), so Miamians are messaging her on the daily, clamoring for her tips, tricks, and tried-that’s on all things Magic City food. From recs to rundowns, come slide into Rozansky’s DMs with us. Warning: This content is not X-rated, but it may induce a severe case of hunger.

La Mar at the Mandarin Oriental always graces my best boozy brunch list year after year. Why? They consistently serve up an insane spread featuring sushi, ceviche, and other Peruvian delights. Plus, it provides the perfect backdrop to kick back and enjoy the view from the comforts of Brickell Key. (mandarinoriental.com/en/miami/brickell-key/dine/la-mar-by-gaston-acurio)

Do you have the scoop on the best local grab-and-go coffee spot?

True Baristas serves its brews and confections out of the cutest coffee truck you’ve ever seen. The first time I stumbled upon it, I had a Starbucks cup in-hand and immediately felt a burning shame for supporting the big guy when this charming little truck within walking distance was just waiting for my business! True Baristas offers specialty drinks, light bites, and feel-good tunes to send you on your way with a pep in your step. (truebaristas.com)

What’s the best drag brunch in town?

R House in Wynwood has withstood the test of time because their drag brunch is one for the books. This indoor/outdoor experience will have your head in the clouds and your jaw on the floor. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, R House comes in hot and says, “Hold my drink.” Come for the bottomless booze, stay for the drag performances of a lifetime. (rhousewynwood.com)

What’s the best brunch-with-a-view to kick off my crew’s Sunday Funday?

Take your dim sum game up a notch at Novikov. I’m talking chicken and black truffle, duck and foie gras, king crab and caviar, plus saffron and sweet corn options, for starters. Want it all? Stop by for Sunday brunch and enjoy unlimited dim sum for $99. (novikovmiami.com)

Sushi snob here, but not looking to spend a fortune. Are there any options in Miami that aren’t obscenely priced?

Omakai Sushi in Wynwood (with additional locations in Aventura and Coconut Grove) is the best quality sushi for the price. They offer a few levels of omakase at different price points; I usually opt for the $38 Oma. You can always supplement with some additional handrolls (blue crab all day) if you’re still hungry. Hot tip: Their Homekase boxes offer some of the best sushi in town if you want to enjoy your omakase from the comfort of your couch. (omakai.com)

Thoughts on the best happy hour for bites and drinks around Wynwood?

Uchi’s happy hour always gets my vote. Offered daily from 5 to 6:30 p.m., Uchi has crazy specials like half-off sparkling wine and Champagne, nigiri as low as $4, and cocktails for just $9. Don’t worry, they don’t skimp on the offerings just because it’s happy hour; you can still indulge in oysters, tuna, Wagyu, and more. You’ll almost wonder, “What’s the catch?” (See what I did there?) (uchi.uchirestaurants.com/location/miami)

Give me dim sum recs, but make it #fancy. Whatcha got?

I’ve got a big birthday dinner coming up, and I’m obsessed with omakase. Sky’s the limit—I want to go all out. Where should we go?

I’m looking for a fun, over-the-top dinner experience to host a serious foodie colleague. I’m talking all the bells and whistles—quality, ambience, and Instagrammable decor, but without sacrificing taste. Thoughts?

If you want a high-end, traditional experience, I recommend The Den at Azabu. This Michelin-starred concept offers the best-of-the-best fish, prepared in a private room tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main restaurant. Look on in awe as chefs slice, prepare, and torch each plate before your eyes. Wash it all down with the Kuro cocktail, The Den's take on an old fashioned. (theden.miami.azabuglobal.com)

Nossa Omakase is one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in this town. Forget about your traditional notion of omakase; this meal will turn that on its head. You’ll try foods you’ve likely never heard of, and the presentation will blow your mind more with each course. Come hungry because this meal even tested my limits (and that’s saying a lot because your girl can eat). (nossaomakase.com)

I’d love a recommendation for a neighborhood joint to have a casual but yummy dinner with the fam.

My family’s go-to for dinner—where we can come as we are, feel right at home, and know we can always count on a delicious, consistent meal—is Whisk. Every Friday is burger night, so you can enjoy bangin’ burger specials, along with other fan favorites including their baconwrapped dates, fried green tomatoes, and crispy brussels sprouts. (whiskgourmet.com)

Ojo de Agua in Brickell is the perfect spot for a quick working lunch where you can still have a healthy meal that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The place is charming and affordable, with an expansive menu full of freshly squeezed juices, salads, tacos, and more. Snag a table outside to soak up the palpable Brickell energy. Or sit inside if you want a little more peace and quiet to talk shop. The menu is chock-full of colorful, flavor-packed options sure to satisfy any palate or budget. (ojodeaguamiami.com)

Where can I find good Spanish food in Miami? Craving some nice, authentic rice and gambas.

Help! I have some friends in for the weekend and we’re looking for a fun dinner spot that gives off classic Miami vibes. Any recs?

Leku in Allapattah (at the Rubell Museum) is one of my all-time faves. It’s an upscale Basque restaurant that serves up a variety of elevated Spanish classics. Start with one of their creative renditions of a gin and tonic at the picture-perfect bar, and then lean into their delicious food—from croquetas de jamon that will melt in your mouth, a tomato cracker that tastes entirely more exciting than it sounds, and beet tartare that is almost too pretty to eat. Their gambas al ajillo and wild mushroom rice are also must-tries. For dessert, order the Basque cheesecake, which just might be the best thing you’ll ever put in your mouth. (lekumiami.com)

It doesn’t get more Miami-esque than dining, drinking, and dancing at Café la Trova on Calle Ocho. Think: authentic Cuban cuisine with a modern twist (hellooo Cuban sandwich empanadas). Be sure to check out the ’80s-themed 305 bar in the back, where daiquiris and mojitos are in full effect. (cafelatrova.com)

Any lunch meeting spots where I don’t have to sacrifice my waistline or my wallet?

If you’re looking to celebrate, there’s nothing quite like Kiki on the River for a fun girls’ (or guys’) dinner before hitting the town. As the name suggests, the restaurant is on the river, so you can count on views for days, and the people watching is truly unparalleled. The food also doesn’t disappoint, with shareable Greek plates you’ll promptly burn off whilst dancing on tables. (kikiontheriver.com)

I’m planning a boat day and looking for some easy food to bring on board. I’m over Publix subs. Any good swap outs?

Where can you get the freshest stone crabs in town?

If you’ve never eaten at Joe’s Stone Crab, are you even a Miamian? You can get great stone crabs elsewhere, of course, but there’s nothing like a visit to Joe’s. The scene is unmatched, and the food is equally impressive. The stone crabs are worth the price tag, but don’t sleep on some of the other standout dishes, including ginger salmon, fried chicken, creamed spinach, and hash browns. Oh, and be sure to order key lime pie for dessert. (But you already knew that, didn’t you?) (joesstonecrab.com)

I’m going to let you in on a little secret: I can confidently say that Chicken Kitchen offers the best boat-day sustenance in the 305. Order the supersized versions of their iconic Chop-Chops—family bowls feed five people and party bowls feed 10. (chickenkitchen.com)

Looking for bachelorette dinner recs—hit me up!

Anniversary date spot ideas, please! Looking for a place that checks all the boxes for amazing cocktails, food, and service.

Any tips on a lunch spot that serves healthy food that doesn’t taste like a punishment?

Carrot Express slays the health food game with an expansive menu full of options that you actually crave and will keep you coming back for more. I tend to be a creature of habit when it comes to ordering food, but even I play the field at Carrot Express. Mexican salad with turkey burger, salmon Buddha bowl, huevos rancheros burritos—you can’t go wrong. Just make sure to ask for a side or two of the cilantro lime dressing, no matter what you order. (carrotexpress.com)

Acai bowl and smoothie lover here! Where can I find the best selections in town?

I’ve selflessly dedicated hours of my time to trying as many acai bowls and smoothies as humanly possible, and I’m confident in my conclusion that the best ones can be found at Raw Juce. At locations in Aventura, Coral Gables, Brickell (and beyond) they blend banana into the base of their acai, which creates the perfect, creamy texture. It’s also not too sweet, which is an all-too-common problem. Plus, they layer in the granola, meaning the fun doesn’t stop once you consume the first round of toppings. (Yes, I take my research seriously!) (rawjuce.com)

LPM, hands down. For starters, they make the best cocktails in town—order the Tomatini and thank me later. From there, you’ll move on to the escargot. (Don’t tell me you don’t like snails, just do it!) Then go for the duck à l’orange and wrap things up with a cheesecake. There’s no better place to lock things down for another year with your special someone! (lpmrestaurants.com/miami)

Looking for a lively dinner party spot for a friend’s birthday. We love Latin music and dancing—any ideas?

Pueblito Viejo will transport you directly to Colombia, delivering the dinner party experience you didn’t know you could find in Miami. Get ready for some serious sensory overload (in the best way possible). Think: shareable Latin dishes, flowing aguardiente, and a dance party you won’t forget (depending on how many ‘guaro shots you throw back). (pueblitoviejo.com)

Drinking Pig is the ultimate Miami barbecue destination. From brisket to ribs to chicken and pulled pork, no matter your carnivorous preference, this joint is sure to satisfy. Looking to soak up all that meat with some carbs? Might as well splurge on their mac and cheese and cornbread, too. (drinkingpigbbq.com)

I’m craving a mouthwatering burger—help a friend out!

Since I first tried Ted’s Burgers at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival a few years back, I was truly humbled. As someone who never considered herself a burger fan, I quickly course corrected after sinking my teeth into a juicy, smashedto-perfection Ted’s burger. Want to taste what all the hype is about? Ted’s doesn’t have a permanent location yet, so follow their Instagram to see where they’re popping up next. (@teds_burgers)

Best barbecue in Miami? I have a serious hankering for some ribs.

You might not think of Miami as a leading beer city. But the first breweries in South Florida were founded right here. As soon as Prohibition ended in 1933, entrepreneurs were eager to fill a void for thirsty Magic City drinkers.

Who was passing out the pints first?

Historians credit George and Charles Diehl for launching South Florida’s first brewery— Flamingo Brewing Company—in 1933. But flip back through newspaper clippings of the day and the claim gets murkier, with Hialeah Brewing Company credited for producing the first drops of local beer at a production facility on Palm Avenue and 6th Street in 1934.

Who opened first doesn’t matter much these days. What’s important now is that both of those early breweries offer proof that Miami has been a city of beer pioneers for nearly a century. Today, Miami boasts 20 breweries within a 20-mile radius—each making beers unique to the 305. Here are eight that define the city.

BEAT CULTURE Brew y & Kitchen

1

Forget about mimosas during a Sunday Funday. Instead, try a Chismosa Mimosa ale at Beat Culture Brewery & Kitchen. Located just south of the Miami International Airport and set next door to a Days Inn, this brewery also houses a fully functioning kitchen. From croquetas de jamón and tostones topped with pulled pork to the Farmhouse 305 sandwich, Beat Culture is Miami to its core, with all its food and drink offerings influenced by Latin flavors and culture.

The brewery crafts traditional beer styles ranging from hoppy to fruity, plus barrel-aged creations. But they don’t just stick to beer: For the non-beer drinkers in your party, Beat Culture makes mead, honey wine, and cider, too.

The 8,100-square-foot brewery and taproom has plenty of space to relax and socialize. Grab a table and play a game of dominoes, or just kick back and enjoy the vibes with friends and family. (beatculture.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« Chismosa Mimosa 7.4 percent ABV mimosa-style ale: A beer with all the orange citrus flavor and a boozy punch, Chismosa Mimosa is brewed for those keen on brunch and all that goes with it. During production, this beer is rested on Florida-grown navel oranges before being packaged in bottles and put on

draft in Beat Culture’s tasting room. It’s a bit boozier than a light blonde or a cream ale, but it’s still reminiscent of the cocktail it was made to mimic.

« Fuacata 5.4 percent ABV mango sour ale: Aged on mango and passion fruit, this in-season choice is vibrant orange in color and offers a light and tart flavor that’s reminscent of agua fresca.

TREAT YOURSELF TO TUNES

LINCOLN’S BEARD Brewing Co.

Lincoln’s Beard is the brewery hot spot of the Miami suburbs. Built into a 4,300-square-foot warehouse space, it features a two-story mezzanine and outdoor patio for parties and events. Lincoln’s Beard regularly hosts DJs, trivia, karaoke nights, and local bands, making it a great brewery to take a date to or simply party with a judgment-free crowd who encourage everyone to get “weird at the Beard.”

Lincoln’s Beard serves more than just fresh beer made on-site. Tex-Mex food vendor Tacos and Tattoos is set up in the back serving tacos, quesadillas, and fresh chips and salsa.

(lincolnsbeardbrewing.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« Old News 4.8 percent ABV pilsner: One of the best German pilsners in Miami, this is a light, crisp, easy-drinking beer that would make your dad or uncle keen to crush it after mowing the lawn on a Sunday afternoon.

« Chet Belgian Tripel 9 percent ABV: This high-alcohol-volume choice—which Lincoln’s Beard founder John Falco has called “a great tasting beer for when you want to get there quick”—will please the boozier beer fans in your crew. It features a complex fruit and spice flavor.

SPREAD THE LOCAL LOVE

J. WAKEFIELD Brewing

There’s a quartet of breweries in Wynwood right now, but only one isn’t owned by a large corporation. Instead, it’s local and independently owned by namesake Johnathan Wakefield.

After launching his signature (and super popular) Florida Weisse in 2013 at local craft beer joints around town, Wakefield raised $112,000 in a crowdfunding campaign via Crowdbrewed to open his brewery in Wynwood.

The Star Wars– and Marvel-themed spot now brings beer geeks from all over the world to its annual Wakefest. The beer festival was really the first of its kind in Miami—hosting the best breweries and pouring the finest beer from all over the world.

Although J. Wakefield doesn’t have its own kitchen, it regularly hosts pop-up food vendors. Favorites in the rotation include Chikin Boi, The Wolf of Tacos, and Ted’s Burgers, to name a few. (jwakefieldbrewing.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« On any given day, J. Wakefield’s tap list will feature the Port of Miami 5 percent ABV German pilsner, Hops for Teacher 6 percent ABV west coast IPA, and El Jefe 5 percent ABV German hefeweizen, but the lineup rotates regularly.

« DFPF 7 percent ABV Florida weisse/sour ale: As a homebrewer, Wakefield perfected an old recipe of German sour beer called Berliner weisse, naming it after the locally grown dragon fruit and passion fruit he used to create it. It’s been rated No. 1 by ratebeer.com and No. 2 by Beer Advocate.

UNBRANDED Brewing Co.

Breaking all the rules in the South Florida city where local beer got its start, Hialeah’s Unbranded doesn’t dub itself the “0riginal mavericks” for no reason.

An award-winning homebrewer since 2005, co-owner Zachary Swanson is a descendant of a nineteenth-century cattle rancher named Samuel Augustus Maverick, who was known for intentionally leaving his cattle unbranded. It was a move against the grain, which is something Swanson brings to his craft.

He opened Unbranded as Hialeah’s first craft brewery in February 2020, only weeks before breweries shut down statewide due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The brewery now hosts its own Texas-style smokehouse barbecue, paired with Swanson’s brewed offerings. (unbrandedbrewing.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« Guava 4.5 ABV wheat ale: With citrusy passion fruit notes, this light and refreshing wheat beer has added guava for extra SoFlo vibes.

« Hazy 6.2 ABV IPA: This mainstay from Unbranded’s Hazy series is so popular you can find it around town at bottle shops and craft beer bars.

« Salt & Lime 5.5 ABV light lager: Treated with sea salt and fresh lime juice, this lager is a great choice for sipping surfside or poolside.

PAIR BREWS AND ‘CUE

SMOKE ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM

THE TANK Brewing Co.

You won’t just find beer here; The Tank (sandwiched between Doral and Miami Springs) sells handcrafted stogies too, since the building houses both the brewery and Nicaraguancigar manufacturer Plasencia Cigars.

(Pro tip: Look for the door with a sign that reads “Family Cigar Room,” which will lead you to a swanky cigar lounge.)

Most notable at The Tank are its awardwinning beers that are approachable for novice beer drinkers but quality enough to impress beer snobs. This 25,000-squarefoot building hosts one of the largest breweries in South Florida, a taproom that can seat 120 guests, and tasty bites from in-house food truck The Twisted Fork. You

can order chicken wings, potato wedges with blue cheese, ham croquettes, and some slamming burgers.

Brew-wise, the Tank has earned an impressive list of accolades, including a gold medal in the 2018 World Beer Cup Championship for its La Finca golden saison. In 2019, The Tank was ranked as one of the fastest growing craft breweries in the country by The New Brewer, the magazine of the Brewer’s Association. (thetankbrewing.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« La Playita 5.1 percent ABV dry-hopped pilsner: The Tank has a reputation for making some of the best light beers in South Florida, and this pilsner shows the brewery’s ability to elevate a lager to a new level of flavor. It’s crisp and refreshing, and when you put down an empty glass, you want another immediately.

« Lo-Ca 4.2 percent ABV tropical blonde ale: This beer packs a ton of flavor into a 94-calorie beer with less than 3 grams of carbohydrates.

TRIPPING ANIMALS Brewing Co.

Doral’s Tripping Animals was many years in the making. Coowners Ignacio Montenegro and Daniel Chocron were childhood friends in Venezuela, and Chocron and Juan Manuel Torres (another future partner of Tripping Animals) opened a nano-brewery called Casa Coronarías in their native country in 2012. Meanwhile, Montenegro moved to the United States to attend college in St. Louis, Missouri, where he soon realized it would be feasible for him and his friends to pursue their passion for beer commercially in the states. The trio added another childhood friend, Iker Elorriaga, to their team and turned their attention to opening a brewery in Miami.

Six years later, Tripping Animals boasts a 15,000-square-foot brewery and taproom, and the brand has been recognized for pushing boundaries by adding fruit to sour beers and making big, juicy, hazy IPAs.

Last June, Tripping Animals launched an in-house food vendor called Meat N’ Bone Kitchen. From Wagyu beef carpaccio to hot dogs made with USDA Prime steak, it’s not your typical bar food. They even sell filet mignon and rib eye if you’re looking for a steak-and-ale experience.

(trippinganimals.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« Everhaze 7 percent ABV IPA, brewed with cashmere, citra, and amarillo, and the crisp No Mames 6 percent ABV Mexican lager are two of Tripping Animals’ mainstays.

« Limonada Rosada 6 percent ABV fruited Berliner weisse: Part of Tripping Animals’ Limonada series, this brew offers notes of raspberry, strawberry, and lime. Other great options are Limonada de Mango and Limonada de Kiwi y Fresas

EXCELLENT FOR EVENTS

BAY 13 Brewery & Kitchen

Many of Miami’s breweries are tucked into arts districts and industrial parks, but Bay 13 is the only brewery in Coral Gables (and the only one serving charred octopus). In addition to a fully functioning brewery producing 14 beer styles, there’s a full liquor bar with eight unique cocktails and an extensive wine list. The kitchen is equipped for catering and makes dishes large enough to feed a party—which is perhaps why The Knot wedding planning site recommends Bay 13 as a great wedding venue. (bay13brewery.com)

BEERS TO TRY

« Oceana 5.5 percent ABV Australian sparkling ale: A light and easy-drinking beer, this pick doesn’t sacrifice malty character or flavor.

« Drop Bear 9 percent ABV IPA: For those looking for something that’s a bit bolder and packs a hoppy flavor, this IPA delivers tropical fruit, red currant, raspberry, citrus, and floral notes—plus subtle hints of gooseberry and Sauvignon Blanc with a pillowy mouthfeel.

OFF SITE Nano Brewery

Tucked away in Little River, Off Site and its food and drink menu marry comfort with luxury. Where else can you order a Miller High Life to wash down a $65 caviar platter?

For $13 you can order a classic American burger—but it’s a Koji-cured blend of chuck, brisket, and short rib. The pork in the Cuban sandwiches and bratwursts are derived from Duroc swine. Off Site even makes its own all-beef hot dogs, known as “champion dogs.”

The high-end food is thanks to a partnership between Michelin Guide–recommended Taquiza owner Steve Santana and Adam Darnell, owner of the legendary craft beer bar Boxelder. The duo brings together their respective expertise to offer a small menu of food and drinks that Darnell and Santana typically order when out and about themselves. (offsite.miami)

BEERS TO TRY

« Super Good

5.5 percent ABV lager: This signature Off Site lager is your traditional beer-flavored beer. There’s nothing fancy about it, but that’s what makes it so great.

« One Piece at a Time 6.6 percent ABV hazy IPA: Brewed on a small three-barrel system in the corner of the kitchen, this beer is a crushable option with refreshing tropical notes balanced with a juicy hop profile.

LITTLE RIVER LUXE

T Art STYLE

EMBRACE A MONOCHROMATIC PALETTE WITH LOOKS THAT TELL A TRUE COLOR STORY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GABOR JURINA

Shot by Aventura on location at the Armory Art Center, West Palm Beach

Oscar de la Renta caftan gown

Opposite page: Dolce & Gabbana demi couture dress, bra, gloves, boots, bag; ceramics by artist Debbie O’Hara. For buying information, turn to page 106.

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

Michael Kors Collection gown, silver cuffs; Jimmy Choo sandals; drawing studio.

Opposite page: Proenza Schouler jersey dress; Sportmax boots; sculpture studio. For buying information, turn to page 106.

Gabriela Hearst blazer, pants; Valentino Garavani pumps; Cult Gaia clutch. Opposite page: Chanel jacket, skirt, ring, earrings; artist John Lark’s studio. For buying information, turn to page 106.

Alexander McQueen corset, skirt, gloves, boots, cuffs, earrings

Opposite page: Sportmax dress, boots; figure studio. For buying information, turn to page 106.

Model: Pavla P, The Source, Miami Hair and makeup: Colleen Stone, Creative Management, Miami

Digital tech: Tony Lai

Carolina Herrera strapless midi-dress; Alexander McQueen cuff; painting studio.

Opposite page: Valentino pleated gown; sculpture studio. For buying information, turn to page 106.

SIP&SAVOR

BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

OPENINGS

GREEK TO YOU

In ancient times, according to Homer, the Greek gods would feast on ambrosia and sip on nectar. The old bard never mentioned what, exactly, ambrosia was—only that it was fragrant, restorative, and pleasing to the senses. Had he lived another 2,000-plus years, Homer might have found some of the same qualities in the food at Avra

The brainchild of Greek restaurateur Nick Tsoulos in partnership with Nick Pashalis and Marc Packer, Avra was born in Midtown Manhattan in 2000 and has recently expanded to the Estates at Acqualina in Sunny Isles Beach. There, Tsoulos continues the tradition of “pure ingredients and simple preparations” in the brand’s first oceanfront location. The experience begins at the ice case, where the fresh catch of the day, mostly flown in from the Med, is on display. Pick your

favorite and have it prepared Greek-style, grilled and drizzled with ladolemono, a simple sauce of EVOO, lemon, and oregano.

The menu includes a number of authentic dishes, like a horiatiki salad with slabs of feta, cucumbers, and thick-cut tomatoes that go through a rigorous selection process. If they don’t taste and smell like those from the old country, they don’t make it onto the plate. Don’t miss delicacies like the grilled octopus, Chilean sea bass souvlaki, and grilled halloumi with orange and Greek honey. For dessert, skip the baklava and order a portokalopita, an orange sponge cake soaked in fragrant syrup. You rarely get this outside of Greece. Pair it all with some nice Greek wines, and you’ll understand why the gods were so happy.

(theavragroup.com) —Daphne Nikolopoulos

Breaking Brad

A SUPERSTAR CHEF MAKES A TRIUMPHANT RETURN AT HIS NEW FLORIDIAN BRASSERIE

BY PAUL RUBIO

Throughout the 2010s, James Beard “Best Chef: South’’ nominee and Food & Wine “Best New Chefs in America” recipient Brad Kilgore ruled as a Miami top chef, redefining the city’s restaurant landscape with Alter, Kaido, and Ember. Post-pandemic, Kilgore has re-entered the Wynwood dining scene, this time shaking things up with MaryGold’s at Arlo Wynwood, a collaboration with internationally acclaimed beverage experts Bar Lab. Here, the chef dishes on his latest culinary adventure with Aventura (marygoldsbrasserie.com)

Aventura: When Alter opened in 2015, it was the disrupter of the Wynwood food scene. How does it feel to be back in the neighborhood with your latest hot spot, MaryGold’s?

Kilgore: Wynwood has been part of my DNA for so long, it really does feel good to be back. Top that off with opening alongside Elad Zvi and Gabe Orta from Bar Lab, who are longtime friends and have always wanted a Wynwood project. The restaurant landscape in Wynwood has changed, but we felt it was still missing a local brasserie-style restaurant that is nice with highquality service but you can go any day you like.

We’re loving the interior design at MaryGold’s (as is Robb Report, which named it one of the 25 most beautiful restaurants in America). Please tell us more about it.

The design strives for a welcoming, warm room that makes you want to stay, enjoying the wonderful cocktail creations at the bar, then moving onto the patio or dining room for a fantastic meal.

What’s the culinary inspiration behind the restaurant?

Our restaurant is a Florida brasserie. When Gabe, Elad, and I sat down to conceptualize the menus and restaurant style, we said we wanted to represent the current and future Miami, just the way Wynwood does. Miami, as we all know, is a melting pot—of talents, cultures, people, styles,

and, of course, flavors. I also think it’s important to source locally when applicable and let local products shine through.

The menu has many standout plates, but the robiolina tortellini is nothing short of epic. Could you walk us through this dish?

I worked in Italy twice, so pasta dishes have always been a part of my repertoire; I take them to heart and love to suggest them to our guests. The tortellini is filled with a very creamy but still sharp ricotta-like cheese called robiolina, and the handmade tortellini are made every morning. The classic brasserie dish of escargot bourguignon is

reimagined into a ragout over the pasta, finished with pistachios and parsley and much lighter on the butter and garlic than the original.

Can you tell us about a personal menu highlight? The Chicken and the Egg is my favorite dish. The egg is a nod to an old dish I used to make called the Soft Egg, and the local young chicken is presented tableside after being smoked with hay and herbs.

Do you have any suggested pairings among the Bar Lab–created cocktails and your dishes?

Nicole Garcia is our bar manager at MaryGold’s, and she is the best at pairing cocktails with food. Her favorite is the Apricot Soursop Old Cuban that is paired with our local sashimi sauced with a sour orange aguachile. Her other favorite pairing is the briny Caper Berry Martini with my tortellini dish. That pairing is special to me because I collaborated with the bar team to develop the cocktail’s umami brine.

What’s on deck for the rest of 2023? Is it all about MaryGold’s or do you already have other ventures in the pipeline?

MaryGold’s and all the food and beverage outlets at Arlo Wynwood are the focus for now, but I always have something new I want to cook and create.

At MaryGold’s, chef Brad Kilgore delights guests with brasserie-inspired dishes. Cocktail pairings from Bar Lab master mixologists round out the experience.

TO TRY 2 The SETAI Set

The Setai Miami Beach flaunts two of the most stylish and buzzed about dining options in the area. (thesetaihotel.com) — P.R.

JAYA

Anchored by a soothing reflection pond, lined with sleek seating nooks, and embellished with eye-catching light and water features, The Setai’s alfresco courtyard dazzles as the ultimate backdrop for an elegant Miami dinner. It’s home to the hotel’s signature restaurant, Jaya, where executive chef Vijayudu Veena takes guests on an epicurean journey across Asia, from his native India to Thailand, Malaysia, China, Japan, and beyond. Our advice for optimizing Jaya’s expansive menu: Go family-style, sharing dishes that span the continent, including chicken (or sea bass) tikka, Peking duck, pad thai, truffle dumplings, salmon panang curry, and made-to-order maki rolls.

OCEAN GRILL

This snazzy, open-air restaurant is a favorite among the Miami style set thanks to its Instagram-worthy fare, fabulous ocean views, and elevated coastal vibe. Expect lighter Mediterranean cuisine during the day (think: salmon carpaccio, tuna Niçoise salad, and grilled fish tacos) and heartier items come dusk when dishes like truffle risotto and Maine lobster spaghetti shine. Ocean Grill is also an idyllic setting for embracing the Miami lifestyle over a languid afternoon of oysters, rosé, bubbles, and conversation.

IRISH VIBES

DUBLIN DOWN

Following a three-decade run that ended thanks to COVID, Irish pub JohnMartin’s has been resurrected and reimagined head-to-toe courtesy of Breakwater Hospitality Group and award-winning hospitality design firm Bigtime Design. Reincarnated in its original location along Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile, the twostory, 7,000-square-foot pub and event space balances a nostalgia of Irish tradition and JohnMartin’s late-’80s roots with a vibrant, contemporary, cool aesthetic that screams pub chic.

Fancy interiors notwithstanding, today’s menu remains a delightful array of comfort-style pub grub perfected. Feast on the 24-hour brined signature wings (with a choice of five sauces), brisket

flatbread, slow-cooked baby back ribs, or a juicy 8-ounce burger on a brioche bun. Alternatively, go for Irish classics like the Guinness beer–battered fish and chips, decadent Shepherd’s Pie, or loaded Irish potato (with all the fixings, including Guinness beer cheese sauce). On St. Patrick’s Day or any day, the reboot of JohnMartin’s feels timeless and thoughtful, marking a riveting new chapter in the history of an Irish-Miami icon.

(johnmartinsmiami.com) —P.R.

Classic fish and chips with tartar sauce and squashed peas

Charmed by CHINOLA

Conceptualized in Miami but produced in the Dominican Republic’s Samaná Peninsula, Chinola Passion Fruit Liqueur is the sweet-yet-tangy cordial currently playing a starring role on Miami’s cocktail scene. The versatile liqueur is featured in countless mixology-forward creations at top city bars and restaurants, but it’s also readily available at local stores for at-home recipes, including the Chinola Spicy Margarita. (chinola.com) —P.R.

Equipment

Shaker

Muddler

Rocks glass

Ingredients

3/4 oz. Chinola

1 1/2 oz. Blanco tequila

3/4 oz. fresh lime juice

1/2 oz. agave nectar

1-2 fresh jalapeño coins

Salt or Tajin (for garnish)

Lime wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

Thoroughly muddle the jalapeño in the shaker. Then, add the Chinola, tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. Add ice and shake. Strain through the shaker top, pouring the drink into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a salt or Tajin rim and then add a lime wheel.

CHINOLA LIQUEUR

FRANCESCACOVIELLO

MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

SOARING into March

THIS MONTH PROMISES NEW BEGINNINGS AND CELEBRATIONS

BY JULES ARON

Whether you’re honoring women’s rights and achievements on International Women’s Day, observing the beginning of spring, or celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll have no shortage of opportunities to toast in March. Enter the Pineapple Express. A playful riff on the Jungle Bird—a tropical negroni that debuted in the 1970s—this version is as light and vibrant as the month itself. By blending a decidedly botanical rum with juicy pineapple, a bright aperitivo , and a touch of (green!) aromatic basil, a new bird takes flight.

Pineapple Express Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. Pa’lante Botanical Rum

3/4 oz. Cocchi Americano Bianco

1/2 oz. fresh lime juice

1/2 oz. agave syrup

1 1/2 oz. basil and pineapple juice (recipe below)

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with crushed ice.

Basil and Pineapple Juice Ingredients (makes 1 cup)

1/3 pineapple, peeled, cut, and heart removed

1 small bunch basil

Add all ingredients to a juicer or blender and juice/blend before straining.

GYORGY PAPP

Fresh Tastes Best

The Difference

All-natural cooking broths. Animal Welfare

Certified.

Aneto tastes like real broth because it’s made the way broth is supposed to be. We start with the best fresh, bone-in proteins, local vegetables, fresh water, and sea salt. These ingredients are simmered for hours to extract rich flavor and nutrients.

We do not use preservatives to extend the shelf life nor do we use extracts, sugars, or flavor enhancers.

Sip it or cook with it; whatever you make is made better with Aneto.

Let us bring your home projects to life.

We know your projects require more than just a come in and buy approach, which is why we tailor our services to assist you, understanding that the sale doesn’t end with the purchase. We’ve been helping our customers through the ever-changing complexities of the products we sell for over 95 years. Come and see why.

HOME

INTERIORS

POSTCARD PERFECT

This 1931 Spanish Mediterranean abode had been featured on a Miami postcard back in the day, reveals client Chris Paciello, and it had long been a favorite of his. When it came on the market, the Anatomy fitness centers owner didn’t hesitate to snap it up. Soon thereafter, he enlisted longtime collaborator and House of One founder Brittany Farinas to give it a fresh look while still preserving its original character. Or, as Farinas puts it: “We wanted a new old feel.”

“When we first got into the house, the architectural detailing was overwhelming,” says Farinas. “There was lots of mosaic, heavy molding, and dark woods.” While some of those features, like the original tile flooring, were left in place, many others

came out in favor of more contemporary materials. After redesigning four homes together, the designer and homeowner had found their stride. “Chris never gives directions per se, but he’s very involved in all projects,” says Farinas, who’s currently working on two other houses owned by Paciello. “We work through the details together, walk through each room, throw out ideas, and then I come back with renderings. He lets me be creative, and I know what he likes: a tailored, masculine, minimalist design.”

For his part, Paciello has become savvy about design and construction after 20-plus years operating nightclubs, restaurants, and gyms, and renovating multiple Spanish Mediterranean homes like this one. “I’ve always loved the style, and that’s perhaps because I used to live in Southern California and it reminds me of Old Hollywood,” he says. “I guess I’m an old soul.” (houseof1.com) —Judy Martel

FROM CITY TO SHORE, THE FINE ART OF MIAMI LIVING

KRIS TAMBURELLO

AMPED UP APPLIANCES

WHEN IT COMES TO APPLIANCES, THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO GO. FIRST, YOU CAN MINIMIZE THEM BY PANELING TO MATCH THE CABINETRY—A POPULAR CHOICE ESPECIALLY FOR REFRIGERATORS AND DISHWASHERS. OR, YOU CAN GO THE OPPOSITE ROUTE AND MAKE A STATEMENT. MANY BRANDS LIKE CAFÉ APPLIANCES, SAMSUNG, SMEG, AND TRUE RESIDENTIAL OFFER CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS WITH FINISHES AND COLORS THAT ARE A STRIKING ALTERNATIVE TO STAINLESS STEEL.

DAZZLING DETAILS

Hardware is often said to be the “jewelry” of cabinetry—a finishing touch that really pulls the design together. Make a statement in unique materials like stone or leather. On the flip side, there is also the option to have no hardware at all (another big trend). This look, which is often referred to as channeled cabinetry, works nicely in modern kitchens.

CAPTIVATING CABINETRY

BY DESIGN

WHAT’S COOKING?

TIPS FOR SPICING UP YOUR KITCHEN

BY ALENA CAPRA

Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, why not show the space some love when updating or building new? As a certified master kitchen and bath designer, I am always keeping up with what’s current in the industry. Here are five of the top trends we are seeing in kitchen design for 2023. (alenacapradesigns.com)

BOLD BACKSPLASH

A backsplash really draws your eye in a kitchen. Try going with a full-height backsplash to serve as a continuation of your countertop. Alternately, a tile backsplash can add contrast through color, pattern, or texture. There are so many options when it comes to tile—from shape and size to a wealth of materials like glass, ceramic, metal, natural stone, and porcelain.

Two-tone cabinetry (using a main color for most of the cabinetry and an accent color on the island or base cabinets) is having a moment. Consider playing with textures and finishes, like mixing high-gloss lacquer with matte lacquer or pairing a textured wood grain door with a painted door. You can even use two different door styles, as long as they relate well.

MIXED METALS

Mixed metals have been trending in home design and kitchens are no exception, with options from matte black to black nickel, from brushed brass to matte gold, and beyond. Many plumbing fixtures now come in two-tone finishes too. Think about using one finish for your light fixtures and hardware, and adding a contrasting finish on the faucet and kitchen furnishings such as counter stool accents.

DARRYL

HANG IN THE BALANCE

A gorgeous marriage of form and function, Wildwood’s bamboo chandelier ($1,907) offers six-light illumination in a chinoiserie frame. Capitol Lighting, Fort Lauderdale (capitollighting.com)

ELEMENTS

BAMBOOZLED!

IMPART A TONY TASTE OF THE TROPICS WITH DECOR MADE FROM AND INSPIRED BY BAMBOO

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

UPON REFLECTION

The sophisticated shape and modern detailing of this Two’s Company bamboo mirror ($340) make it a glam way to accent an underperforming console.

Liba Style, Miami (libastyle.com)

TABLE MANNERS

Effortlessly chic and fresh, Pomegranate’s block-printed napkins ($56 for set of four) feature a geometric bamboo pattern. Mandolin Back House, Miami (mrsmandolin.com)

SIDE GIG

Easily garnering the award for best supporting actor, this bamboo side table ($2,994) by Modern History will be a welcome addition to your interior design cast. Monica James & Co., Miami (monicajames.com)

RIMMING WITH CONFIDENCE

The bamboo trim on Juliska’s dinnerware (priced by piece) exudes a casual elegance that can be dressed up or down. Bloomingdale’s, Aventura (bloomingdales.com)

STEP OUTSIDE

Alanna Kleiner of Agsia

Design collaborated with SDH Studio on this chill outdoor area with a bamboo wall backdrop. “Our goal for this space was to create a smooth transition between interior and exterior by selecting outdoor furniture pieces that provide an exterior look but are still comfortable and inviting,” Kleiner explains. “We chose pieces with a see-through element and neutral colors for the larger items [so as] not to interfere or block the beautiful lake view. We decided to add pops of color to make the space more fun and casual.”

Miami (agsia.com; sdhstudio.com)

BARREL OF FUN

PASSPORT TO STYLE

Charlotte Moss’ travels to Tanzania inspired the hand-painted bamboo trellis pillow ($279) she created in collaboration with Eastern Accents Baer’s Furniture locations (baers.com)

An airy take on the traditional barrel chair, the Brody chair ($840) from Made Goods pairs a bamboo frame with a double-rail back and handwoven rattan. Judith Norman, Hollywood (judithnorman. com)

PHL SERVICE

INSPIRED LIVING

Off the Walls

WE SPOTLIGHT THREE WAYS TO TRANSFORM AN UNINSPIRED ACCENT WALL INTO A CONVERSATION STARTER

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

A WALL MURAL 1

Murals create an instant focal point in a space. While wallpaper continues to trend, murals present an opportunity to go bigger and bolder. They can depict everything from florals and botanicals to landscapes and exotic environs, meaning they’re an easy and elegant way to bring the outdoors in. In contrast to traditional wallpaper, which offers a seamlessly repeating print, wall murals contain scenes in panels. Adhesion methods, finishes, and sizes vary, so be sure to do your research to ensure you select the best option for your desired result. Visit the West Palm Beach wallpaper showroom of Chelsea Lane and Company to peruse an extensive library of wallpaper murals, including those from Naples-based company Daisy Bennett Designs. (chelsealaneco.com)

A LIVING WALL

While people’s affinity for biophilic design (which centers around incorporating natural elements into indoor spaces) started well before COVID-19, the quarantine and post-pandemic fallout spurred an uptick in its popularity. A prime example of this is living walls. Once reserved for hotel lobbies and luxe shopping plazas, living walls are now popping up in home interiors. Lindsay Scherr Burgess and her team at Green Wallscapes in West Palm Beach create unique moss art walls without the maintenance—no watering or special lighting are necessary. She offers a variety of styles (like Amazonia and Botanica) and the choice of a subtle neutral palette or a bolder look with succulents and ferns added into the mix. (greenwallscapes.com)

3D WALL PANELS

The idea of 3D wall panels is new to many. Essentially, it involves covering a wall with a decorative material that has three-dimensional surface patterns. These panes create instant dimension and texture in a more minimalistic way. Materials range from wood, metal, and glass to plant fibers and plastic, and aesthetics run the gamut from traditional to contemporary. Depending on your choice of material, many can be primed and painted in just about any hue. In South Florida, Victoria and Emmanuel Soler, the husband and wife behind CSD3DWalls, have been transforming spaces with 3D wall panels since 2016. Their team meets with clients to discuss design and color options as well as lighting and other environmental considerations before the final installation. (csd3dwalls.com)

THE ART OF STYLE

BUYING INFORMATION

PAGE 80

Silk veil demi couture dress ($5,545), satin balconette bra ($365), satin laminated gloves ($525), satin laminated boots ($1,025), polished calf skin Sicily bag ($1,595), Dolce & Gabbana, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, dolcegabbana.com

PAGE 81

Ruffled cape-back caftan gown ($5,290), Oscar de la Renta, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, saksfifthavenue.com

PAGE 82

Asymmetric cutout gown ($3,290), silver cuffs ($350 each), Michael Kors Collection, michaelkors.com; Aveline 100 dove blue sandals with asymmetric grosgrain mesh fascinator bows ($995), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, jimmychoo.com.

PAGE 83

Jersey dress ($1,685), Proenza Schouler, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, saksfifthavenue.com; satin boots (price upon request), Sportmax, sportmax.com

PAGE 84

Coated fantasy tweed jacket ($6,200), coated fantasy tweed skirt ($3,150), metal and strass ring ($700), metal and strass earrings ($1,500), Chanel, Aventura Mall, Miami Design District, chanel.com

PAGE 85

HAVE

YOU

MADE A STATEMENT LATELY?

ESTABLISHED 1987

Unique home accessories, gifts, fabulous clothing, handbags and jewelry.

2118 N.E. 123rd St., North Miami, Florida 33181 (across the bridge from Bal Harbour Shops) Tel: 305.893.7559

Double-breasted cashmere blazer ($2,090), flare-leg crepe pants ($1,090), Gabriela Hearst, Saks Fifth Avenue, Aventura Mall, saks fifthavenue.com; Valentino Garavani pumps ($920), Valentino, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, valentino.com; Eos marbled acrylic clutch ($348), Cult Gaia, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami, saksfifthavenue.com

PAGE 86

Dress ($1,950), satin boots (price upon request), Sportmax, sportmax. com

PAGE 87

Corset ($2,790), skirt ($6,290), gloves ($940), boots ($1,890), cuffs ($1,690 each), earrings ($590), Alexander McQueen, Miami Design District, alexandermcqueen.com

PAGE 88

Strapless ruched silk midi-dress ($3,590), Carolina Herrera, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, saksfifthavenue.com; cuff ($1,690), Alexander McQueen, Miami Design District, alexandermcqueen.com

PAGE 89

Pleated gown ($12,500), Valentino, similar styles, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, valentino.com

SOCIAL STUDIES

SEEN ON THE SCENE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

GONE WILD FOR GOOD

WHO: Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade WHAT: Fourteenth Annual “Wild About Kids” Gala

WHERE: The Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables HIGHLIGHTS: The event raised more than $450,000 for the organization’s programs and initiatives.

DJ FELIX SAMA

ANDY AND TATSIANA ANSIN, ERICA WERTHEIM, LIOR ZOHAR

MARIA AND FRANCISCO CARRERAS

ERASMO PEREZ ESPANA, MARIA CECILIA RACHADEL, ADRIANA SATIZABAL, GABRIELA RACHADEL DE DELGADO

DELIA MARTINEZ, MIRTHA DAVILA, MARIA CARRERAS, ALDY CONCEPCION

YOUTH PERFORMERS FROM BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF MIAMI-DADE

CONNIE AND FRED REBOZ0, OLGA GUILARTE

CORAL THORNTON, NESTOR CAMACHO PAWAN MELGIRI AND TARA GADGIL, MATTHEW ZABLOTNY, AMANDA GONZALEZ, CHIP AND MEREDITH VIRNIG HUDSON, LAURA SMITH

YUNI AND OMAR NAVARRO

MITCHELL ZACHS

SOCIAL STUDIES

WISH AMONG THE STARS

WHO: Make-A-Wish Southern Florida WHAT: TwentySeventh Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball WHERE: InterContinental Miami HIGHLIGHTS: Hundreds of guests gathered to raise more than $5.4 million. The ball was headlined by the legendary Diana Ross, while CeeLo Green entertained at the official after-party.

WORLDREDEYE, MANNY HERNANDEZ

SHAREEF MALNIK, GABRIELLE ANWAR, NANCY AND AL MALNIK

KIKI BARTH, FOODGOD

GLENN SAMPERT, SHAREEF MALNIK, NORMAN WEDDERBURN

GLORIA AND FRANCIS X. SUAREZ

LISA HOCHSTEIN, LARSA PIPPEN, KAMAL HOTCHANDANI, SHREYA ARUN ALISAN PORTER

CEELO GREEN

DIANA ROSS

GYASI HEUS, LUX-O-MATIC

LISA GASTINEAU, RENE RUIZ SKYE DRYNAN, CHRISTOPHER FANNON

LYNN MARTINEZ, MIKE COCHRAN

AHOL SNIFFS GLUE

MIAMI ART WEEK 2022’S BEST PARTIES, PERFORMANCES, AND EVENTS

1. The Culinary Art Experience presented by HexClad and the Michelin Guide

2. Chase Sapphire’s Welcome to Art Week Party featuring The Chainsmokers presented by SiriusXM

3. Chase Sapphire Lounge with Cardi B presented by SiriusXM

4. Fotografiska and Mass Appeal’s kick-off to Hip-Hop: Conscious, Unconscious with Jadakiss and DJ Stretch Armstrong in collaboration with Chase Marriott Bonvoy

5. The Macallan M Collection launch at The Bass featuring artist James Blake and DJ Brendan Fallis

6. Ruinart Champagne and Jeppe Hein’s Champagne Fete at its beachfront art lounge

KRISTEN TAEKMAN

GLORILLA

THE CHAINSMOKERS

CARDI B

DJ STRETCH ARMSTRONG, JADAKISS

JAMES BLAKE AND THE NEW YORK CITY BALLET

BRIAN COX MAYA VANDER

BRENDAN FALLIS

JAMES BLAKE

LAST LOOK

TRAVEL VIA TASTEBUD

When it comes to showcasing the diversity of authentic cuisines that the Magic City has to offer, no one does it quite like Miami Culinary Tours. Since 2010, the company has led daily outings for small groups through some of Miami’s most delicious neighborhoods, bringing the flavors of Cuba, Peru, Colombia, and more to hungry locals and out-of-towners one delicious bite at a time. Director of operations Grace Della and her fellow tour guides squire guests through a smorgasbord of dining discovery at eateries in Little Havana, South Beach, Wynwood, and the Design District, with a seasoning of the rich traditions behind each cuisine sprinkled into each experience. We’re pretty sure all the walking cancels out the calories, but be advised to wear your stretchy pants and comfy shoes. (miamiculinarytours.com) —Melissa Puppo

MIAMI CULINARY TOURS