THE MAGIC OF MIAMI
100 WAYS TO BE AN IN-TOWN TOURIST
AEGEAN ALFRESCO
A BREEZY BRUNCH WITH THE FOUNDERS OF MANDOLIN
THE MAGIC OF MIAMI
100 WAYS TO BE AN IN-TOWN TOURIST
AEGEAN ALFRESCO
A BREEZY BRUNCH WITH THE FOUNDERS OF MANDOLIN
FUNNY BUSINESS WHY @ONLYINDADE IS EVERYONE’S FAVORITE
To experience the Collections visit one of our flags hip s howrooms
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DOWNSVIEW KITCHENS 2635 Rena Road, Mississauga, Ontario The Downsview cabinetry collection is custom crafted in North America and available exclusively through select kitchen design showrooms12 FROM THE EDITOR AVENTURIST
15 SPOTLIGHT
Five Miami spooky season spots delivering Halloween tricks and treats
18 THE MIX
Three hopping jazz joints to visit, an artist’s insect-inspired hat collab, and a local entrepreneur’s tech tool makes monthly breast self-exams more effective
20 PROFILE
Carlos Hernandez on finding the funny at @onlyindade, the Magic City’s favorite social media channel
22 GUIDE
Everything you need to know for festival fun at Wynwood’s III Points
24 SPORTS
Inter Miami CF striker Josef Martínez talks new beginnings for his family and his team STYLE
29 THE LOOK
Designer tableware, plus the return of winter whites
32 THE EDIT
Our favorite objets d’art and petite home pieces
34 JEWELRY BOX
Radiant rose quartz baubles
36 BEAUTY
Milk-infused formulations that soothe
38 TRENDING
Beauty tools for your skin care arsenal JOURNEYS
41 WANDERLUST
Follow the “sport of kings” to three tournaments on the high-goal polo circuit
44 72 HOURS
A Lovango Resort & Beach Club retreat
46 FLORIDIANA
Experience Kissimmee’s luxe Ette Hotel
48 HIGH ROAD
The new Genesis G90 flagship sedan
50 HIGH SEAS Fairline Yachts’ Phantom 65 Sportbridge TOP LAWYERS
77 ATTORNEY PROFILES
Our guide to Miami-Dade’s premier lawyers
SIP & SAVOR
87 OPENINGS
Sushi by Scratch in Coconut Grove offers an outstanding omakase experience in a chic speakeasy setting
88 LOCAL BITES
Raid the kids’ Halloween hauls and pair candies with wines, four dishes to try on the revamped menu at Aventura’s Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina, rooftop dining at Wynwood’s Fabel Miami, and a meal worth a walk in the park at Glass & Vine in Coconut Grove
92 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST
A bourbon-based cocktail that puts a Floridian spin on Fall flavors
HOME
95 INTERIORS
Color is king at this Aventura condo
X 95
96 BY DESIGN
Go neutral without sacrificing style
97 ELEMENTS
Marble marvels for decor accents
98 INSPIRED LIVING
Create a wow-worthy outdoor shower
SOCIAL STUDIES
107 SEEN ON THE SCENE
Pics from Miami’s most fabulous events
LAST LOOK
112 JUST BECLAWS
Kick off stone crab season at the South Beach Seafood Festival
ON THE COVER:
AMINA MARAZZI GANDOLFI
JUAN PABLO CASTRO
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MIAMI SHORES – NEW SHOWROOM COMING SOON @caliclosetsmiami
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DESIGN
Art Directors
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* Citi Mortgage Relationship Pricing — A Citibank deposit account is required to receive the interest rate discount or closing cost credit. Automated monthly transfers of the mortgage payment from a Citibank Deposit Account using automated drafting will be required. Actual interest rate discount or closing cost credit will depend on the level of the Citi Eligible Balances, which will be verified after final loan approval.
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Let’s face it: We live where others vacation. In fact, more than 50 million people visited Miami last year, according to data from the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. From our beaches to our nightlife to our cultural institutions and beyond, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Magic City. That’s why this issue of Aventura turns the spotlight on some of the people and places that make our community great.
There are the people who make us laugh, like Carlos Hernandez, the comedian behind @onlyindade, profiled by Jess Swanson on page 20 in “Made in Dade.” There are the people who make us cheer, like Inter Miami CF striker Josef Martínez; Paige Bowers caught up with the new Miamian and father in “In Striking Distance” on page 24. And let’s not forget the people who feed us, including Anastasia Koutsioukis and Ahmet Erkaya of Mandolin Aegean Bistro and other area establishments, who invite us into their home for a feast in “Miami Goes Mediterranean” by Linda Marx, starting on page 62.
It’s a great time to be a Miamian—whether you’re new to the city or a longtime local who has watched it grow over the years. Either way, don’t sleep on exploring this amazing place we call home. Turn to page 52 for “Rediscovering the Magic,” where we offer more than 100 ways to see Miami with new eyes so that you can be a tourist in your own town.
I hope you find this month’s stories informative and inspiring. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram (@aventuramagazine) and to subscribe to our Insider’s Guide e-newsletter at aventuramagazine.com to stay up-to-date on all things Miami— and the magic that makes us unique!
Kristen Desmond LeFevre klefevre@aventuramagazine.comHalloween is upon us, and Miami is celebrating in a way that only the Magic City can. Turn the page for four hair-raising happenings—from a gang of early twentieth-century Cuban specters to a string quartet concert by candlelight—plus a not-so-scary option for little ones who prefer more treats than tricks.
—Christiana LillyPack up the family for the return of Haunted Circus Miami, a macabre playground with 13 rides, six bounce houses, two Ferris wheels, a mini pirate ship, and classic carnival games. As you wander through Tropical Park, take part in tarot readings, pumpkin arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and performances by aerial acrobats, jugglers, and the rest of the circus troupe. Of course, there will be plenty of photo ops, too. The circus is in town through October 29. (hauntedcircusmiami.com)
There are more than just jockeys riding their steeds at Gulfstream Park Village—there’s sightings of the Headless Horseman, too. On October 23, Headless Horseman Halloween returns to the park with six themed candy stations as well as music, laser shows, food trucks, and spooky performers. Be sure to don your best Halloween costume to compete for a cash prize. (gulfstreampark.com)
The Curtiss Mansion in Miami Springs has been transformed into Havana at the turn of the century—but with a spooky twist. Step into the Havana Haunted Mansion to help solve the disappearance of a wealthy Cuban family and explore their illegal underground casino frequented by gambling fantasmas. Guests 21 and older are invited to solve challenges posed by the supernatural dwellers and find their way out of the mansion. The experience also offers spirits of another kind, too, with a selection of handcrafted cocktails paired with cigars and Cuban and Latin dishes. The spooky experience runs through October 31. (hauntedmansionmiami.com)
From Singapore and Paris to Houston and Des Moines, the Candlelight Concert Series has swept the world. Come Halloween, the Listeso String Quartet will make its way to Miami to perform the music of the season. The program varies, from the upbeat “Thriller” and Ghostbusters theme to the ominous “Night on Bald Mountain” and “Tubular Bells” from The Exorcist. The quartet will perform October 27 and 28, surrounded by a sea of pillar candles and set against the backdrop of the circa-1924 Scottish Rite Temple’s auditorium, which boasts grand Egyptian Revival architecture. (feverup.com/m/133110)
HALLOWEEN STARTS EARLY ON OCTOBER 8 WITH THE NOT-SO-SCARY FAMILY HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION AT THE MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM , WHERE KIDS CAN EXPLORE 17 GALLERIES IN THEIR FAVORITE COSTUME AND PARTAKE IN HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES. THINK: MINI PUMPKIN CARVING, CHARACTER MEET AND GREETS, SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS FIT FOR DR. FRANKENSTEIN, AND A HAUNTED HOUSE—WITH FRIENDLY GHOSTS, OF COURSE! VISIT EVENTBRITE.COM FOR TICKETS.
In jazz’s mid-century heyday, legendary musicians like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, and Thelonious Monk were all the rage on the stages of Miami Beach’s swankiest hotels and clubs. Today, jazz still reigns supreme at a handful of Miami hot spots. Here are our picks for three of the city’s best jazz joints.
Anything is a canvas for Sunny Isles Beach artist Pipe Yanguas—including insects. During the COVID-19 quarantine, Yanguas came across the coreid bug nymph in Colombia and was inspired to cover a photograph of it with dots and lines. That inspo spread to paintings, murals, and, eventually, a limited-edition hat collaboration with Artesano. Yanguas is known for wearing hats himself, and fans can now purchase his hand-painted, made-to-order Panama hats covered with inked dots and lines. “I go into this meditative state when I am painting and I get disconnected—or connected, more like,” he says of his process. (artesano.net) —C.L.
LAGNIAPPE OFFERS A NIGHTLY LINEUP OF LIVE MUSIC, SHOWCASING MUSICIANS ACROSS THE JAZZ SPECTRUM—FROM BLUEGRASS TO AFRO-CUBAN AND NEW ORLEANS FUNK. (LAGNIAPPEHOUSE.COM)
AT THE FISH HOUSE, COME FOR THE CUBAN- AND PERUVIAN-INSPIRED SEAFOOD BUT STAY FOR THE LIVE MUSIC. (THEFISHHOUSE.COM)
1 2 3
THE GLOBE HAS LONG BEEN CONSIDERED ONE OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN CORAL GABLES, BUT IT’S ALSO FAMOUS FOR ITS SATURDAY JAZZ NIGHTS, A STAPLE SINCE 1996. (THEGLOBECAFE.COM) —C.L.
It’s recommended that women do monthly breast exams, and serial entrepreneur Marylin Dans has invented a way to make the at-home process more effective. Her Pink Luminous Breast tool illuminates the breast as a user runs it along the skin, highlighting possible areas of concern like dark clusters that could indicate inconsistencies or abnormalities. Breast health is important to Dans; at age 17, she had a lumpectomy to remove a benign tumor. “I feel I have been called to do this,” she says. “Early detection saves lives.” (pinkluminousbreast.com) —C.L.
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When asked about his upbringing, Carlos “Cahrlos” Hernandez doesn’t hesitate. “I was born in Mexico, but my parents are Cuban,” he says, “so I can jump and swim really well.” It’s that razor-sharp wit and effortless delivery that distinguish the 28-year-old comedian, who is best known locally as the outrageous host of the Only in Dade (@onlyindade) social media channel that boasts more than 2 million followers.
Hernandez has interviewed such celebrities as Brazilian singer Anitta, Inter Miami CF co-owner David Beckham, and rapper/record executive Rick Ross—and he makes both his subjects and audience burst out laughing. “I want [celebrities] to feel comfortable and to be seen as real people, so I treat them as I would anybody else,” says Hernandez, recalling the time he asked Spanish musician Rosalía to teach him how to re-create her viral gumchewing meme.
It’s hard for Hernandez to pinpoint a time when comedy wasn’t his passion. As a kid in Mexico, he watched the ’90s Nickelodeon sitcom Kenan & Kel (dubbed in Spanish), and it inspired him to concoct antics to make his sister and parents crack up.
“I was like 9 years old and would pretend to break-dance poorly just to make my family laugh,” Hernandez says. “I was a fan of comedy from afar, but secretly I always wanted to be one of the people actually doing comedy.”
After moving to Miami at age 10 and attending middle and high school in Miami Lakes, Hernandez graduated from Florida International University “in something that had nothing to do with comedy,” he says. At 21, he
found himself working in cybersecurity, sitting inside a server room looking up comedy classes at Just the Funny Theater on Coral Way. For most of his classmates, improv was just a hobby. For Hernandez, it was more. “I told the teacher to be hard on me, that I’m taking this seriously, and that this is what my career is going to be,” he recalls.
Hernandez’s career took off slowly as he balanced a full-time position with evening comedy and improv classes. After touring festivals with his improv group, Hernandez segued into stand-up comedy and building his brand. He appeared in local shows and at comedy nights across South Florida, including Taurus in Coconut Grove. Amid the pandemic, Hernandez auditioned for American Idol on a whim. Though he’s “not a singer by any means,” Hernandez used his improv skills to
prank the judges with a portrayal of Yurisbel, an upbeat Cuban rapper who performed “Fireball” by Pitbull. (“Yurisbel is basically just a more human version of me,” Hernandez kids.)
Last year, Hernandez quit his job to pursue comedy full-time. Sure, there’s the heckling and relentless reworking of material, but it’s his childhood dream come true. He has opened for comedians such as Michael Rapaport, Damon Wayans, Matt Rife, Pete Davidson, Ricky Velez, Aida Rodriguez, and Craig Robinson. This year, he booked shows in Ohio, Los Angeles, and New York, and appeared in films, online series, and national commercials. “I’ve gotten to work with a few comedians that I really like,” Hernandez says. “I would have been proud just to be in the same room as these people and now I get to rub shoulders with them.” «
IF CARLOS HERNANDEZ’S VIRAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT, @ONLYINDADE, HASN’T MADE YOU LAUGH OUT LOUD YET, ARE YOU EVEN A MIAMIAN?
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III POINTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES
A DECADE OF MUSIC, ART, AND TECHNOLOGY IN WYNWOOD
BY JESSE SCOTTSure, the number three may be in the III Points Festival’s name. But in 2023, it’s about an even bigger number: 10.
That’s because 2023 marks a decade of the Wynwood counterculture event known for its large-scale murals, graffiti artists, culinary offerings, and (oh yeah) totally stellar musical acts. It’s all com ing to you live October 20-21 at Mana Wynwood.
The fan-favorite festival has blossomed from a casual music shindig created by four friends into an audiovisual spectacle, attracting tens of thousands of fans and spanning six stages—from the laser light–dotted Mind Melt stage to the intimate, bohemian Sector 3 stage.
To honor the milestone, organizers are pulling out all the stops. This year’s lineup is the perfect hybrid of big-name headliners and ones to watch, representing musical genres from deep house to psych-rock to hip-hop.
“Being ahead of the curve hasn’t been easy and has required taking risks,” says III Points co-founder David Sinopoli. “We set out on a mission 10 years ago to build something different in Miami that the counterculture here can identify with. This initiative is flourishing because of all the artists and fans who have supported this idea.”
Among the must-see sets for 2023 are headliners like the “Godfather of Punk,” Iggy Pop; 30-year-old English record producer/ singing phenom Fred Again; multigenerational producer Skrillex; futuristic dance-pop diva Grimes; and R&B-meets-jazz-master
Black Coffee. For a can’t-miss throwback, check out hip-hop legends Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, who have timeless bangers like “Tha Crossroads” and “Thuggish Ruggish Bone.”
Sure, you can attend just a portion of the weekend and drop in to catch a favorite artist or two. But embrace the full two days and prepare to experience acts that are new to your ears (warranting weekslong Spotify binges).
Two-day general admission tickets start at $199. GA+ passes cost $329, including expedited entry and air-conditioned bathroom access. For $529, you can score a VIP pass to enjoy exclusive amenities, gourmet food and drinks, and more. Any way you go, prepare to be mesmerized by the new Despacio party and sound system—a high-tech club concept that will boast 50,000 watts of sound and precision visuals for a more intimate and visceral dance floor experience. (iiipoints.com) «
INTER
BY PAIGE BOWERSWhen Inter Miami CF striker Josef Martínez was struggling through a nine-game scoring drought this past spring, he remained calm. That’s noteworthy, because there was a time in his life when a slump would have put him in a really foul mood. Now that he’s a father, Martínez admits that his perspective on the sport he loves has changed.
“I always wanted to be a dad,” Martínez says. “It’s the most beautiful thing in life. Now, I can have a bad day and come home but [my son] doesn’t know what happened. He just looks at me and smiles.”’
Before moving to Miami earlier this year, the Venezuelanborn Martínez (age 30) spent six years as one of Atlanta’s most beloved and recognizable sports figures, earning the nickname “El Rey” (The King) for his prolific scoring and undeniable swagger. When Atlanta United won the MLS Cup in 2018, he garnered three MVP awards and the Golden Boot, the award given to the player who scores the most goals in a regular season. In two seasons, he scored six hat tricks. Suffice it to say, he was on a tear until a knee injury sidelined him for the 2020 season.
Then things went south—literally. Martínez has always
been known as a passionate player who hates to lose. As Atlanta began to struggle, he made no secret of his feelings about why that was and who was to blame. Former Herons coach Phil Neville approached Martínez after a match, he recalls, and said maybe someday he’d like to come play for him.
“I told him, ‘Maybe this is possible,’” Martínez says. “I thought, because of the circumstances in Atlanta, it would be difficult for me to remain there.”
He had already been spending most of his vacation time in the Magic City. But when his son was born in November and had to spend the first two months of his life in a Miami hospital, the idea of playing in Miami grew more appealing. “I wanted to be near my son, and I needed to do that,” he says.
In January, Miami welcomed him with open arms. Pepito’s Arepa Bar in Doral (known for its large Venezuelan population) sold limited-edition pink arepas with a custom Josef Martínez logo pressed into them. Wynwood was full of Josef graffiti, and a large billboard that read
“Hablame, Miami. Josef llego.” (“Speak to me, Miami. Josef arrived.”) presided proudly over Doral. “I feel at home here and have lots of friends and family nearby,” Martínez says. “I am happy that the club gave me this opportunity. This is my home.”
Martínez doesn’t let the attention go to his head. He gets up early to train, then comes home to eat and spend time with his son. Padel ball and PlayStation are some of his favorite downtime activities, but he heads downtown for dinner from time to time. Mostly, he likes to stay at home, rest, and be with friends.
Still, he’s a striker—and he knows it’s his job to score. Facing one of his worst professional slumps this spring, Martínez came off the bench when his old team came to town, scoring two goals to lead his new squad to victory. He describes it as the strangest moment of his career.
“I still have a lot of love for [Atlanta],” says Martínez, who in that game became the fastest player in MLS to score 100 goals in the regular season. “Even though I represent Miami now, I have a heart for the team, the club, and the city because they supported me, even in bad moments. I didn’t want to face my former teammates, but God had something saved for me in that moment. Life moves on, but for me it was an emotional [match].”
Though Martínez has found his footing in his new town and with a new team, Inter Miami has struggled to rack up wins this season. In early June, as the team languished at the bottom of the MLS East, Neville was fired and replaced with Gerardo “Tata” Martino, Martínez’s
former coach in Atlanta. “I’ve known the coach for many years,” Martínez told reporters. “I know how he wants to work. I know the ambition he has to achieve big things.”
At the same time, the blockbuster signings of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba sparked talk that this team could make things interesting in the second half of the season. Of the addition of Messi, Martínez told reporters: “We want to learn from the most successful person in the world, and we are very happy to have him with us. We all give him space. We know he is enjoying himself. We are also enjoying him. ... It has been a positive few days for everyone—the city, the team. You can see it in the results.”
Now, Martínez and his teammates are working together to fight their way into an MLS playoff berth. “We’re never going to put our heads down,” he says. “We’re going to continue to battle and fight and get those wins. This is a strong environment and we will continue on this stretch and this path.” «
“
I FEEL AT HOME HERE AND HAVE LOTS OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY NEARBY. I AM HAPPY THAT THE CLUB GAVE ME THIS OPPORTUNITY. THIS IS MY HOME.”
INFUSE YOUR TABLE WITH AN ISLAND ESSENCE USING PIECES FROM DESIGNER HOME COLLECTIONS
BY KATHERINE LANDETRANSITION YOUR SUMMER WHITES WITH THESE FALL ESSENTIALS
BY KATHERINE LANDEGOLD MINE
The Harper vanilla custom quilted handbag ($2,600), Tyler Ellis, tylerellis.com
BREAK THE CHAIN
Shiny white quilted handbag with metal chain ($7,100), Chanel, Aventura, Miami, chanel.com
CAFFEINE FIX
Latte soft leather boots ($1,595), Jimmy Choo, Aventura, Miami, jimmychoo.com
CARE PACKAGE
The Box Seal handbag ($3,200), Alexander McQueen, Miami, alexandermcqueen.com
SOFT TOUCH: Try shearling accessories in warm-weather climates.
STITCH FIX: Quilting adds interesting texture to monotone add-ons.
STEP UP:
This fall, opt for a stark white boot; both high and low work.
MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION FALL 2023
Natural-tone accessories instantly give an all-white look a cool-weather vibe.
COZY COUTURE
White shearling Nano Fendigraphy charm handbag ($1,550), Fendi, Aventura, Miami, fendi.com
SADDLE UP
Maxi Horsebit chain shoulder bag in white shearling ($4,890), Gucci, Aventura, Miami, gucci.com
ROCK SOLID
Taupe agate cuff bracelet ($450), Michael Kors Collection, michael kors.com
BATTLE READY
Double T combat boots ($428), Tory
Aventura, toryburch.com
SLIDE RIGHT IN Arizona big-buckle shearling sandals ($180), Birkenstock, birkenstock.com
TIMELESS TREASURE
Shell dish ($500), Herend, herendusa.com
Growing up, I greatly admired my grandmother’s array of Herend service sets. Displaying decorative items in my own home, such as Herend’s large shell dish in the signature multicolor Rothschild Bird motif, reminds me of her while projecting both nostalgic and modern vibes.
—Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editorToucan sculpture ($5,000), Lalique, lalique.com
Every Florida home should include a touch of the tropics—or at least something exotic. Regardless of your ornithological interests, this bird of paradise in Amazon green crystal is a splendid conversation piece, adding pizzazz (and plumage) to any room. —Jane E. Enos, contributing editor
EDIT
POSH POT
Potted sedum and moss arrangement ($100), Creative Displays, gilt.com
Bring the outdoors in with this can’t-kill-it pop of green that you’ll never need to water.
—Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editorin chief
LET IT BURN
Glass Meso incense holder ($28), Yield, yielddesign.co
Whether perched on a mantle or displayed front and center on a coffee table, this incense burner (inspired by Mesopotamian architecture) will warm up any design motif. Plus, the amber color is perfect for fall.
—Abigail Duffy, web editorTwo-tone bonbonnière ($495), Helle Mardahl, bergdorfgoodman.com
I’m a big believer in form follows function, but this little object gives equal billing to both. Reminiscent of a cairn, the mouth-blown glass sculpture does double duty as a candy vessel. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director
SEA STARS
Starfish decorative piece ($500), Tiffany & Co., tiffany.com
The late Italian jewelry designer Elsa Peretti favored organic shapes for her creations. Her 8-inch Venetian glass starfish bedazzled in 24-karat gold leaf will shine brightly from a counter or tabletop.
—Gaylene
Salomons,contributing editor
BOO-TIFUL
Ceramic ghost spoon rest ($22), Samantha Booth Art, samanthaboothart.com
Introduce a little fright to an autumnal tablescape with this darling spoon rest from Boca Raton–based artist Samantha Booth. Keep it for yourself or give it to a Halloween-loving friend; Booth sends the item wrapped and ready to gift.
—Mary Murray, executive editor
THESE OBJETS D’ART AND PETITE PRACTICAL PIECES GET OUR EDITORS’ SEAL OF APPROVAL
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EMBRACE THE HEALING NATURE AND JOYFUL ENERGY OF ROSE QUARTZ
BY MARY MURRAY1. TOTALLY BUGGIN’ Mason and Books Love Bug pendant with morganite and rose quartz set in 14-karat gold on a golden Italian leather torque, $4,650 for pendant, $1,150 for torque. (masonand books.com)
2. FIRST BLUSH Clara Chehab necklace with rose quartz, pink tourmaline, and pink sapphires set in 18-karat rose gold, $4,000. (clarachehab.com)
3. STRAWBERRY MOON Patricia Robalino pink half-moon studs with rose quartz, white topaz, and diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, price upon request. (patriciarobalino.com)
4. TICKLED PINK Sig Ward Jewelry ring with rose quartz and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $4,500. (sigwardjewelry.com)
5. PICK A PETAL Guita M flower earrings with rose quartz and rubies set in 18-karat gold, $5,000. (guitam-jewelry.com)
6. EXTRA TERRESTRIAL Jacquie Aiche earrings with rose quartz teardrops, diamonds, freeform pink agate slices, tourmaline, and bone droplets set in 14-karat rose gold, $6,750. (jacquieaiche.com)
7. OVAL OFFICE Misahara Jansi bracelet with rose quartz and diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, $12,300. (misahara.com)
8. CATCH OF THE DAY Tejen ring with rose quartz and diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $3,100. (tejen-collection.com)
Keep calm and soothe on with milk-infused formulations that comfort, moisturize, and exfoliate for baby-soft skin: Laboratoires Embryolisse Poudre de Lait Exfoliante (Exfoliating Milk Powder) with three coconut extracts ($30, us.embryolisse. com); Fable Rune Rose Clay & Goat Milk Face Mask ($32) and Goats Milk Soap bars in Pure & Gentle, Sea Palm & Cypress, and Rose & Amaranth ($12 each, fablerune. com); Éminence Organic Skin Care
Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, a vegan plumping moisturizer with shea butter, grapeseed oil, and green apple stem cell technology ($69), and Coconut Milk
Cleanser, a gentle cleanser for dry, irritated, or sunburned skin ($44, eminenceorganics. com); and Butter & Me Skin Milk Sweet Milk Mask & Bath ($20, butterandme. co). —Abigail Duffy
All true one of the best professional realtors in our business today.
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.In our quest to protect our skin from the sun and environmental toxins, we sometimes overlook our hands. The Omnilux contour glove ($345) is an FDA-cleared red light therapy device clinically proven to improve the appearance of sunspots, pigmentation, wrinkles, dry skin, and uneven skin tone. Its red and near-infrared wavelengths also work to reduce inflammation, joint pain, and irritation as well as boost the production of collagen and elastin. (omniluxled.com)
BY LIZA GRANT SMITHconnective tissue that encases organs, joints, and muscles throughout the body. While she initially developed the personal-use device for pain relief and performance optimization, Black discovered an unexpected benefit: a reduction in cellulite. Through tissue massaging, the FasciaBlaster helps break the fascial connections apart and minimize the appearance of dimpling. (ashleyblackguru.com)
Manufactured from surgicalgrade hydrogel, AngelLift Dermastrips ($79) are a noninvasive way to address lower facial lines and wrinkles. Worn like teeth-whitening strips, Dermastrips help to replace the pressure you lose as your gums naturally recede, with the skin becoming smoother and tighter in response to the lifting beneath the surface. This Botox Shark Tank success story, with Lori Greiner buying a stake in the company. (angellift.com)
Designed by a Japanese makeup artist and skin care specialist, the Toute Nuit facial wrinkle flattening patches ($16 per pack) relax underlying facial muscles and, with repeated use, flatten deep-set wrinkles and smooth fine lines. The patches come in six shapes based on the wrinkle zone you wish to vanish. Apply to your face before bedtime and sleep your way to a younger visage. (toutenuit.com)
MORE THAN JUST INFLUENCER HYPE, THESE BEAUTY TOOLS ARE WORTH ADDING TO YOUR SELF-CARE ARSENAL
FOLLOW THE “SPORT OF KINGS” TO THESE THREE TOURNAMENTS ON THE HIGH-GOAL POLO CIRCUIT
BY PAUL RUBIOWhat began as a war game in Central Asia during 600 B.C., polo grew into an exclusive society sport during the first century, popular among royalty and privileged classes. By the late-nineteenth century, membership-based polo clubs were established across the United Kingdom, the United States, and Argentina to formally organize competitions, subsequently fostering polo associations to preside over the clubs. This
YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE ENGADIN ST. MORITZ“sport of kings” has evolved to encompass a high-energy social scene that rivals the action on the field. Here, we spotlight three travelworthy tournaments from the high-goal polo circuit, where new kings are determined annually while new queens of the scene are crowned on the sidelines.
The be-all and end-all of global polo events, the Argentine Polo Open Championship in Buenos Aires attracts the sport’s highest-ranked players to compete among 10 teams over an entire month, culminating with a final match that awards the world’s most coveted polo trophy. Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2023, this highest of high-goal matches (participating teams must have a combined handicap between 28 and 40 goals)
begins October 31 and ends December 2.
The action takes place in the upscale Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires at Campo Argentino de Polo, dubbed the “Cathedral of Polo” thanks to its century-long history and the storied matches that have transpired therein. Given the cathedral’s capacity of 30,000 and the fact that the sport is deeply embedded into Argentinian culture, expect a very vocal and lively crowd of nationals plus international polo, social, and political royalty. With the tournament’s timing near the start of the South American summer, spectators tend to dress casually—men in polos and shorts, ladies in designer jeans and blouses or dresses. Come nightfall, however, the polo crowd glams it up at invitationonly pre- and post-game parties, held in Buenos Aires’ most exclusive bars and clubs and at private homes. (aapolo.com)
Back in 1985, polo circles in St. Moritz threw a curveball by introducing a more challenging winter incarnation: snow polo. While it’s now played around the world, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz remains the world’s only high-goal snow polo tournament, ending in the battle for the Cartier Trophy.
Nowadays, the tournament unfolds over three days (January 26-28, 2024), with a hefty roster of social happenings buffering matches
in Switzerland’s most picturesque ski town. Games take place on a frozen expanse of Lake St. Moritz that has been transformed into a polo field. Entrance to the games and access to the stands are free of charge, so anticipate a mix of devotees as well as novices among some 18,000 spectators.
To find your polo tribe, purchase tickets for VIP lounge access, where lunch and light bites are served, chilled Perrier-Jouët Champagne is constantly flowing, warm blankets are provided, and prime grandstand seats are guaranteed. Don’t miss your chance to socialize with the European polo elite at Saturday night’s cocktail reception and black-tie Polo Gala din-
ner at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, where gents impress in designer tuxedos and ladies dazzle in heirloom jewels. Gala tickets are available to the public if reserved far enough in advance. (snowpolo-stmoritz.com)
Taking place annually in late spring (the final game will be June 16, 2024), the United Kingdom’s premier polo tournament is a 22goal competition, where the world’s greatest teams face off over three weeks, leading up to the grand prize: the Cartier Queen’s Cup. The championship occurs at Guards Polo Club, in the center of Surrey’s Windsor Great Park. Prince Philip served as president of Guards Polo Club from its inception in 1955 until his death in 2021. Today, the 130-acre club has the most members and largest number of playing fields of any polo club in Europe.
The “sport of kings” takes on its true meaning here, with regular attendance by royals; the Queen herself historically made an appearance on the finals day through 2019 and
first presented the trophy to the club in 1960. For the ultimate people watching, score tickets to observe from the Duke’s Pavilion or the Royal Box, where you will hobnob with the glitterati as well as sports stars. And prepare to dress to the nines—the global trend toward a more casual polo scene has yet to reach the Queen’s Cup. The general crowd’s attire easily rivals what the celebrities wear, with a mélange of pastel hues, floral prints, frilly dresses, statement headgear, and fanciful hats erupting from the stands. (guards poloclub.com) «
72 HOURS
LOCATED ACROSS FROM ST. JOHN’S FAMED CANEEL BAY, LOVANGO RESORT & BEACH CLUB BALANCES PRIVATE ISLAND CALM WITH RUM-SPIKED FUN AND REWARDING NATURE PURSUITS
BY PAUL RUBIOThursday afternoon: Fly into St. Thomas and transfer by road to Red Hook, where you’ll hop on a 10-minute ferry to Lovango Resort & Beach Club. At this private island hideaway, eco-chic wooden treehouses and explorer-style tented rooms rise on the north slope, overlooking uninhabited Congo Cay, a pristine bird refuge cloaked in native flora and surrounded by jewel-toned waters that morph from topaz to emerald in the blink of an eye. Nooks for lounging abound (including an outdoor sunken living room in each treehouse and a daybed under canvas in each tent) while screen windows and louver doors ensure vistas shine from all angles.
Thursday night: Refresh in your outdoor rain shower before hopping on the water shuttle to Cruz Bay, St. John, for a bit of boutique browsing and dinner. Reserve a beachside table at La Tapa, a foodie institution since 1996, serving Spanish-tinged international cuisine.
Friday morning: Rise and shine for a short morning hike around the island. Take the BVI trail for views that span British Virgin Islands Jost Van Dyke and Tortola plus several uninhabited cays. Continue down to Crescent Beach, watching pelicans dive bomb for fresh catch and keeping an eye out for any dolphins or turtles that may surface. Then, head back uphill to the Treetops Lobby Tent at Lovango’s
apex, where breakfast is served daily. Naturally, there are more jaw-dropping vistas here— this time near-aerial views of St. John and St. Thomas in a single frame. Ogle them while feasting on a spread of croissants, quiche, fruit, cappuccino, and more. Note: A concierge is stationed at the tent during breakfast hours to help guests plan the day ahead.
Friday afternoon: It’s now time to relax in the sun. Lovango’s strength lies in its virgin beauty, which comes with the upsides of spectacular panoramas and aquamarine waters as well as the reality of rocky and gold-sand beaches. While many are content with languid days of full-service on the natural grounds
at Lovango’s Beach Club (and the sublime cabana-lined swimming pool above), those looking for picture-perfect white-sand glory can take the ferry to St. John’s Honeymoon Beach, which typically runs thrice weekly. The protected, bone-white beach is one of the dreamiest in the entire Caribbean.
Friday night: Indulge in elevated island cuisine at the resort’s Waterfront Café. Start with a smoked pineapple rum oldfashioned at the bar, then continue under the braided lights and towering turpentine trees fronting the ocean. Order the golden beet terrine, a delicate stack of the sweet root vegetable sprinkled with goat cheese over a salad of arugula, basil, charred onion, and crushed almonds with a burnt honeylime dressing. Next, opt for the signature Caribbean lobster schnitzel, a pounded and tenderized lobster tail, breaded and panfried, served over blistered red potatoes, and topped with lobster-cognac butter and an apple and fennel slaw. Keep the night going by joining fellow island dwellers at the weekly Sip + Stars party.
Saturday morning: After breakfast in the Treetops Lobby Tent, don a mask and snorkel and explore the marine life that thrives on both sides of Lovango (the concierge can indicate the best spots).
Saturday afternoon: Enjoy an easy afternoon, feet in the sand, at the Beach Club, either on a coral-colored bean bag, an umbrella-capped lounger, or a cabana couch. Have a beachfront lunch at Lovango’s fast-casual Sand Pit, where highlights include coconut-seasoned tuna poke and garlicky lobster flatbread with Boursin and bechamel. Alternatively, ask the concierge to arrange a safari taxi to another National Park beach for a day of exploration on land or under the water. (Do both at Cinnamon Bay Beach, first meandering through sugar mill ruins and then heading to America Hill to swim in the gin-clear waters.)
Saturday night: Return to Waterfront Café for your final dinner, savoring the other items that likely caught your eye Friday night (hello, sea urchin gnocchi). Pre-order Sunday breakfast to your room for your final morning and bring a night cap back to your treehouse or tent to enhance an evening of phenomenal stargazing. Void of light pollution, the skies above Lovango put on a celestial spectacular. As you sip your cocktail, let your mind drift to a fantasy galaxy far, far away—or simply revere the one you’re currently in. (lovangovi.com) «
FOLLOWING AN ANNUAL FIVE-MONTH CLOSURE, LOVANGO BEACH RESORT WILL OPEN FOR THE 2024 SEASON DECEMBER 18 THROUGH JULY 21. A THREENIGHT MINIMUM IS REQUIRED UPON RESERVATION.
When hotelier Alex Ekbatani set out to create a contemporary luxury hotel group, he chose a spot that admittedly conjures images of theme park kitsch. But if Ette Hotel (an acronym for earthy, true, timeless, and elegant) is Ekbatani’s prototype, then great things are to come from future outposts.
Though Ette Hotel is minutes from Orlando’s theme parks (situated just 3 miles from Disney’s Animal Kingdom), the 126room property is worlds away from the area’s typical kiddie-centric hotels. Here, guests are treated to a refined escape. Consider: a lobby done in Calacatta marble and adorned with a
glass-encased mannequin sporting Alexander McQueen couture, a book room housing shelves of art tomes from Taschen, and a laundry “museum” showcasing meticulously laundered and folded Frette linens. Pause for a moment to watch Ette’s staff in action behind the glass and you might learn how to master the fitted sheet fold yourself.
Ette styles itself as a high-end wellness hotel aimed at nurturing mind, body, and soul. For the full experience, book a wellness suite, complete with a Peloton bike and Technogym weights. The jewel box of a spa boasts two treatment rooms and a lounge outfitted with antigravity cocoons and an array of pampering options featuring products by Natura Bissé and Tammy Fender.
And then there’s the food. Head to Ette’s rooftop to dine at Lipa, Michelin-starred chef Akira Back’s modern Japanese concept offering sushi, sunset views, and a DJ spinning tracks on weekends.
But it’s Back’s main restaurant on property, Salt & the Cellar, that wows, remixing modern Asian influences with Mediterranean cuisine. The menu emphasizes dishes made with nutrient-dense, whole ingredients, like the miso-glazed black cod and the spinach ohitashi salad. But there are indulgences, too, like the gochujang-smothered Wagyu tacos and the togarashi fries with a house-made sriracha-ranch for dipping.
In the spirit of wellness, Ette Hotel is alcohol-free. A BYOB policy (with zero corking fees) is in place for guests who want more proof power. But for the sober and sobercurious, master mixologist Jarl de Vries has curated an impressive menu of zero-alcohol mocktails. Full of whimsy, color, and drama, the libations are theatrically presented tableside with dry ice, flickers of fire, and finishing aromatic spritzes. Order the Moon Child (made from watermelon shrub, lime, agave, lavender saline, and lavender aromatic mist) and have your phone’s camera set to video mode when your beverage arrives atop a bird’s nest, emitting a misty cloud of lavender-scented vapor.
On Sundays, don’t miss afternoon tea in Ette Hotel’s Missoni-lined garden. Choose from an extensive list of teas by Mariage Frères, while noshing on such traditional fare as finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and mini pastries.
Whether you’ve spent the weekend riding coasters across town or hunkering down to take in all the amenities that Ette Hotel has to offer, you’re sure to depart feeling rested, rejuvenated, and yearning to return. (ettehotels.com) «
Cindy, a serial entrepreneur, attorney, successful business executive, and dynamic real estate broker-agent, has founded and launched the house&hive team. With a focus on serving buyers and sellers of luxury and commercial real estate in South Florida, Cindy brings a unique perspective to the rapidly evolving real estate marketplace. The name “house&hive” represents the disruptive nature of the industry, driven by a commitment to delivering exceptional results and client service at the highest level. With her extensive background and expertise, Cindy is well-equipped to guide clients through the complexities of this changing market.
elliman.com
HIGH ROAD
Cosseting is good, right? Being cosseted in the back seat of the new Genesis G90 flagship is right up there with a day at a Canyon Ranch spa, minus the hot mud treatment (it messes up the leather). But with the seatback reclined to near horizontal, the business jet–style footrest raised, and the seat massager cranked up to full Helga, the term “hedonistic” comes to mind.
Want a little of Sade’s soothing “Smooth Operator” to help send you to slumberland? Fire up the 26-speaker Bowers & Wilkins 3D surround sound and then select one of three in-cabin fragrances—I’m partial to the Great Outdoors aroma—to complete the mood.
It’s not just the rear seats that are relaxing. This latest G90 rides on a cushion of air springs and features cameras that read the road ahead to
prepare the suspension for any lumps or bumps. Riding on clouds of fluffy cumulus wouldn’t be softer.
This is Hyundai-owned Genesis wanting a piece of the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes S-Class, Audi A8 action. In fact, Genesis is a lot like Lexus was back in 1989, when it debuted the groundbreaking LS400 sedan. At the time, Lexus was just a newbie division of Toyota, yet it completely disrupted the luxury car industry. The Genesis G90 is also poised to become a disrupter.
It certainly has the looks. Genesis does big grilles well, and the shiny, shield-like whopper on the G90 will spin heads faster than a Beyoncé sighting at Bergdorf’s. It’s complemented by wafer-thin split headlights encrusted with teeny LEDs that, together with the grille, resemble the Genesis logo. Clever.
For the driver, it’s all old-school intuition. There’s no insanely complex touch screen, no annoying warning-beep technology that’s now the norm. The Genesis is more about ease of use and less about needing a degree in computer science just to program the navigation system.
Convenience is a priority, too. Want to open or close a door? Just press a button either on the center console or the door itself. If you’re behind the wheel, simply press on the brake pedal to close it.
One more example of this near-obsessive focus on calm is the speaker in the driver’s headrest. When the driver taps the turn signal, only they are subjected to that pesky click-clock, not the entire cabin. Same goes for the navigation commands.
PRICE: FROM $99,795 ENGINE: 3.5-LITER
TWIN-TURBO SUPERCHARGED V6
POWER: 409 HP TORQUE: 405 LB-FT
0-60: 5.1 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 132
MPH LIMITED LENGTH/WIDTH: 207/76
INCHES WEIGHT: 5,156 POUNDS WHY
WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT’S THE BEST LUXURY SEDAN NO ONE KNOWS ABOUT.
So how does this new G90 drive? One word: sublime. Under that sprawling hood sits a new version of Genesis’ proven 3.5-liter turbo V6, with the addition of an electric supercharger. The thinking here is that when you step on the gas it takes a few milliseconds for the turbocharger to deliver boost. With an electric-driven supercharger, you get instant low-speed torque before the turbos kick in. Packing a healthy 409 hp with 405 lb-ft of torque and coupled to a 10-speed automatic seemingly spinning in Teflon, the V6 can launch the G90 from standstill to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds.
While all this is the epitome of smoothness, sadly it’s not electric, which is the new benchmark of ultimate refinement. Genesis does make a terrific electrified G80 (kid brother to the 90) with a 282-mile range, 365 hp, and more thrust than a Saturn rocket. Yet, for now,
there are no plans to offer the powerpack in the flagship G.
Nevertheless, this fossil-fueled G90 is still a dream to drive. It steers with precision, with the helm having just the right amount of feel. The body roll through curves is well contained, and the ride comfort with those air springs is otherworldly.
G90 pricing starts at $89,495 for the 3.5T AWD, with the coveted 3.5T E-Supercharger version (which I test drove) stickering for $99,795 with few options to be had.
No, it still doesn’t have quite the same prestige and curb appeal of a Mercedes S500, nor the price tag. But if you dare to be different, this remarkable Genesis won’t disappoint. «
At The Sterling Aventura, you or your loved ones will receive high-quality care while soaking in the excitement of our sunny neighborhood. Our experienced staff prioritizes all-around wellness at a price that’s hard to come by anywhere else in South Florida.
FAIRLINE YACHTS HAS WON THE SPACE RACE WITH ITS NEW PHANTOM 65 SPORTBRIDGE
BY HOWARD WALKERYar. Now that’s a good word to describe a cool boat. It was how Sarah Jessica Parker defined a sleek, racy sailboat in the 2006 rom-com Failure to Launch with Matthew McConaughey: “She certainly is yar.”
This utterance was most likely a callback to the 1940 film The Philadelphia Story and Katharine Hepburn’s reminiscence on her old boat: “My, she was yar.”
According to the folks at Merriam-Webster, “yar” refers to a boat that’s speedy, nimble, agile, and ready for action. It’s a perfect term for the new Phantom 65 sports cruiser from Britain’s Fairline Yachts that I’ve been putting through its paces in the feisty briny just off Fort Lauderdale.
Fairline describes it as a “sportbridge,” which is kind of like a flybridge but with a smaller, more compact open space up top, so as to enhance the boat’s sporty
lines. And what lines they are; the way that raked windshield flows into the sportbridge in a rolling, wave-like swoosh is just gorgeous.
If this 65-footer looks vaguely familiar, it might be because the window-rich hull and lower deck are evocative of Fairline’s popular Targa 65 enclosed sports coupe, which Italian master Alberto Mancini designed back in 2016. For this new Phantom, however, Fairline’s in-house team evolved the shape, adding that sportbridge with an upper helm, creating an extra-large transom garage, and completely reimagining the interior.
What the Fairline offers in abundance is a brilliant use of space. Below decks there’s a choice of either three or four en-suite cabins, with a full-beam master suite that looks like something out of a Four Seasons or W hotel.
Not to be outdone, the rear swim deck opens to reveal a space big enough to swallow an 11-foot Williams Sportjet 345 tender.
Climb the teak steps up to the flybridge— sorry, sportbridge—and there’s room for a dozen or more guests. There’s also an outdoor kitchen plus two bucket seats for the helm, a U-shaped sofa opposite, and a big L-shaped sofa with a table. Stroll up to the bow and it’s suntanning central, with two oversize sun pads and another U-shaped, near-full-beam sofa for alfresco dining or sunset cocktails.
Back in the cockpit, at the press of a couple buttons, the big glass doors will slide to the side and a window will drop down to open into the galley and salon. One real highlight of the salon is the deep, full-width sunroof above the lower helm that lets in fresh air and gives a great view for stargazing.
Powering the Phantom is either a pair of Caterpillar C18 turbo diesels with 1,150 hp apiece or the optional—and, frankly, must-
have—Caterpillar C32 V12s with more than 1,600 hp each for a combined 3,244 hp. Both deliver their oomph through old-school shaft drives instead of less robust IPS pods.
Cruise out of the Port Everglades channel into the Atlantic off Lauderdale Beach, ease forward on the throttles, and the 38-ton Fairline punches up onto the plane. In seconds the speedo is showing 37 knots, accompanied by a distant rumble of Cat 12-cylinders. Hard over on the wheel, and the Phantom leans progressively and elegantly into the turn, though the steer-by-wire helm feels much too light and
PRICE: FROM $4.4 MILLION LENGTH: 65 FEET, 4 INCHES BEAM: 17 FEET, 2 INCHES DRAFT: 5 FEET, 2 INCHES
POWER: TWIN CAT C32 1,622 HP TOP SPEED: 37 KNOTS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT’S A 65-FOOTER THAT THINKS IT’S A GO-FAST RUNABOUT.
vague to inspire ultimate confidence. But even punching through 3- to 4-foot swells, the cruiser comes across as unfazed. It’s a pity we’re not headed for the Bahamas, because this new Fairline would be there in a couple hours of relaxed, laid-back cruising.
As for pricing, a well-equipped base boat will set you back around $4.4 million. Our test boat with the optional Cat C32s—a $250,000 upgrade—stickers at $5,250,000. Want one now? Fort Lauderdale Fairline dealer Nautical Ventures will sell you this very yacht.
No question about it: She sure is yar. «
THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO GET OUT THERE AND DISCOVER (OR REDISCOVER) ALL THAT MAKES MIAMI SPECIAL. HERE, WE SHARE MORE THAN 100 PLACES TO EAT, ENJOY, AND EXPLORE WHEN YOU WANT TO BE A TOURIST IN YOUR OWN TOWN.
BY KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE SPARK VISIT FLORIDA VISIT FLORIDA VISIT FLORIDATAKE THE NIGHT SHIFT TO BYPASS THE CROWDS AND SEE MIAMI’S MUSEUMS IN AN ENTIRELY NEW LIGHT: MOONLIGHT
Artechouse
Open until 8 p.m. daily
This first-of-its-kind art space located in Miami Beach showcases experiential and technology-driven works. (artechouse.com/location/miami)
Paradox Museum
Open until 8 p.m. on Saturday
Expect the unexpected at this spot in Wynwood that’s heavy on mind-twisting, eye-tricking optical illusions. (paradoxmuseummiami.com)
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
Open until 9 p.m. on Thursday
Once a week, this downtown museum stays open for three extra hours, giving you more time to peruse its exhibits and collections (plus a reason to grab dinner or drinks at the on-site Verde waterfront restaurant and bar). Pro tip: Visit for free on the first Thursday of the month, thanks to PAMM Free First Thursdays, which include performances, screenings, and pop-up exhibits. (pamm.org)
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Open until 8 p.m. once a month
Grab tickets to Vizcaya Late, a monthly program that lets you enjoy the main house and gardens after hours, plus activations and experiences. (vizcaya.org)
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
Open until 7 p.m. on Wednesday
Check out this North Miami museum’s provocative and innovative exhibits at MOCA by Moonlight. Or visit on the last Friday of the month for Jazz at MOCA, a free concert series beginning at 8 p.m. The galleries open an hour before showtime and stay open during and after the performance. (mocanomi.org)
Frost Museum of Science
Laser shows at 7 p.m. on select Fridays and Saturdays
Open until 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
Visit this Allapattah gem on weekends and try its on-site Spanish restaurant, Leku, after taking in exhibits spanning 40 galleries, featuring the works of contemporary art superstars like Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Oscar Murillo, and Richard Prince—plus younger buzzworthy artists like Jonathan Lyndon Chase, Cy Gavin, and Allison Zuckerman. (rubellmuseum.org)
Although exhibits close at 6 p.m., don’t miss the Frost’s afterhours laser light shows. The eye-popping spectacles are cast across the planetarium’s 67-foot dome (via a 16-million-color, 8K projection system) as hits by artists such as Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, and more blast through 360-degree subwoofers. (frostscience.org)
Coral Gables Museum
Gallery nights from 6-10 p.m. on the first Friday of the month Enjoy free admission and live music while you explore the museum’s exhibits, which focus on architecture, urban landscapes, and environmental design. (coralgablesmuseum.org)
“Miami is in a constant state of flux. For me, it keeps things from getting boring. It’s exciting to see the city’s identity emerge and sharpen as a multicultural mecca.”
“The Betsy Hotel in South Beach is a historic spot on Ocean Drive with a robust arts and philanthropy program, including artists-in-residence every night of the year. From concerts to showings, readings, workshops, and film festivals—there’s always something going on there, not to mention it has wonderful service, terrific food and cocktails, and is dog-friendly, too. I also love Upper Buena Vista, a gem of a plaza with restaurants from Israeli to Turkish, plus shops filled with indie designs and vintage finds. Similarly, Cauley Square in the Redland region is a historic village that has been turned into a shopping and dining destination.”
“One place that flies under the radar is Pasta Market in Little River, where the pasta is all made on site. For Vietnamese, I head to Basilic in North Miami, where the vegetables are so fresh they talk back to you. At La Fresa Francesca in Hialeah, you can get rabbit (one of the only places in town that serves it). When I’m splurging, I’ll eat anything that Michael Beltran cooks, whether it’s at Ariete or Brasserie Laurel or Chug’s Diner. For taquerias, I’m going to El Primo for the birria tacos.”
“Everglades National Park is one of the most unique geographical places in the world. Whether it’s taking the tram or a bike ride around Shark Valley, heading off on an airboat tour from an operator on U.S. 41, paddling from Flamingo Marina, or even battling mosquitos while walking along the Pahayokee Overlook, there’s nothing like it.”
• The golden age of rail travel comes alive aboard the historic trains (set on half a mile of working tracks) at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum. Check out the restored Ferdinand Magellan, a bespoke luxury railcar built for President Franklin Roosevelt in the 1930s, or take a ride on the Edwin Link children’s railroad set on 20-gauge track. Pro tip: Visit on the first Saturday of each month when admission is free. (goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org)
• Get up close and personal with vintage airplanes at Wings Over Miami at the Miami Executive Airport. From a B59 to a MIG-21 jet fighter, the museum’s aircraft collection is almost entirely in flying condition. Call ahead to find out which models will be flown on weekends. (wingsovermiami.com)
• Treetop Trekking Miami aerial adventure park, located on Watson Island, offers a mashup of nature and adventure as you trek among the treetops on three courses via suspended bridges, Tarzan swings, balance logs, cargo nets, ziplines, and more. (miamitreetoptrekking.com)
• Coral Gables’ Venetian Pool is a natural, freshwater pool fed by an underground spring—and the
perfect place to cool off and go for a swim with little ones. The pool dates back to 1924 and is steeped in local history; as Coral Gables founder George Merrick extracted limestone to build up his city, he turned the resulting quarry pit into a recreational hangout. Fast-forward to today, and the Venetian Pool is the only pool in the country listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (coralgables.com/attractions/venetian-pool)
• For a twisting, turning ride with a view, head to the Aventura Mall to take a trip down German artist Carsten Höller’s Aventura Slide Tower. Sure, you’ll have to climb the spiral staircase to get to the top, but the ride down is steep enough to incite an adrenaline rush and fun enough to warrant a climb back up the stairs for another go. The best part? The slide is free for all ages. (arts.aventuramall.com/ carsten-holler/aventura-slide-tower)
• Hit up Kura Sushi in Aventura for food delivered by conveyor belt and drinks served via a robot. If you’re in the mood to try new dishes, select one or more items traveling past your table. Want to order
a favorite roll, nigiri, or dumpling? Use the tableside touchpad to make your selections. Within minutes, your dish will arrive on a second conveyor belt. Your bill is calculated by the number of empty plates you deposit into the bin below the touchscreen. When you reach 15, Kura’s mascot—a sushi-loving samurai named Mutenmaru—will appear on screen and reward you with a prize. (kurasushi.com)
GOT KIDDOS IN TOW? HERE ARE YOUR BEST BETS FOR TOURING THE TOWN WITH LITTLES.COURTESY OF TREETOP TREKKING MIAMI
WHO SAYS SOUVENIRS ARE ONLY FOR TOURISTS? SHOW YOUR LOCAL PRIDE WITH HOT MIAMI MERCH.
NEAT AS A PIN
Enamel pins representing an Art Deco building, a Miami Beach lifeguard tower, and a monstera leaf ($11 each), Black Lamb Studio Shop, etsy.com/shop/blacklamb studioshop
BEACH READ
Miami Beach book ($105), Assouline, assouline.com
Miami candle ($38), Homesick, homesick.com
UNDER THE HOOD
OG Miami hoodie ($150), Billionaire Boys Club, bbcicecream.com
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Miami handembroidered pillow ($225), CatStudio, catstudio.com
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Miami friendship bracelets, ($35 each), Little Words Project, Wynwood, littlewordsproject.com
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“The people! Miami is a city with a long history of migrants and travelers journeying in and out. Over half of our population is foreign-born, and around 17 percent of us come from other places in the United States. We really have our own multicultural, multiethnic, multiracial, multireligious, and multilingual Miami—our own microcosm of the world.”
“Matheson Hammock Park, because the views are stunning and I avoid the traffic and crowds of South Beach. I also like to go to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from atop the Cape Florida Lighthouse.”
“My favorite spot for dinner with the family is Mi Rinconcito Mexicano on Calle Ocho. Don’t miss the freshly baked bread at La Migaja Mexican Bakery tucked inside. Coconut Grove offers cafés like Le Bouchon du Grove and Michelinstarred restaurants like Los Félix. If you like burgers with a twist, try a frita cubana at El Mago de las Fritas in Little Havana. My guilty pleasure is the taco stand at the Redland Market Village in Homestead, where I also get my fix of fresh produce. Nearby, there’s Knaus Berry Farms for delicious cinnamon rolls and the iconic Robert is Here fruit stand for mango milkshakes in season.”
“Calle Ocho in Little Havana is a celebration of our Cuban and Latin American communities. I enjoy taking guests to Versailles ventanita for a cafecito and croqueta, then stopping by the iconic Domino Park, visiting the art galleries during Viernes Culturales every Friday night, and swinging by Ball and Chain for some live music before grabbing one of the best cocktails in town at Café la Trova.”
“A great unexpected spot is El Carajo. Located inside a gas station’s food store and deli in Coconut Grove, this Spanish restaurant has been around since the early ’80s, offering tasty tapas and great wine options.”
“Visit the HistoryMiami Museum to explore the city’s complexity via more than 30,000 artifacts and 2 million images. The museum’s permanent exhibition, ‘Tropical Dreams: A People’s History of South Florida,’ presents 10,000 years of South Florida history.”
• Visit the open-air Caribbean Marketplace on Caribbean Market Days, held every second and fourth Saturday, to shop for goods from Afro-Caribbean artisans and vendors. (@caribbeanmarketplace)
• For Creole food with a Caribbean bent, grab an outdoor seat at Chef Creole Seasoned Kitchen (chefcreole.com). Try the griot (fried pork), served with pikliz, a spicy cabbage slaw. Or go upscale at the Michelin-starred Boia De (boiaderestaurant. com). Located in a strip mall on the neighborhood’s edge, this foodie haven offers savory dishes like potato skins topped with stracciatella, caviar, and egg, as well as sweet items like affogato, a scoop of ice cream topped with an espresso shot.
• Add to your vinyl collection at Sweat Records, which is chock-full of albums in every genre, curated by DJ Lauren “Lolo” Reskin. The shop hosts live events ranging from music to comedy, plus an on-site vegan coffee shop. (sweatrecordsmiami.com)
• Art lovers should not skip the chance to do a Little Haiti gallery crawl. See works by local artists at
Emerson Dorsch (emersondorsch.com), run by one of Miami’s original star gallerists. Visit Manolis Projects (manolisprojects.com) for pieces in various mediums by modern masters of contemporary art like Hunt Slonem and Mr. Brainwash. Round out your tour at Laundromat Art Space (laundromatartspace.com) an artist-run studio and exhibition space located (naturally) in a former laundromat.
flourished in Overtown for almost 50 years and saw performances from world-famous stars like Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, James Brown, and Ella Fitzgerald. (bahlt.org)
• Delve into Miami's Black history at the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum (historicalblackprecinct.org) , which pays homage to the city’s first Black law enforcement officers. Stop by the Ward Rooming House (hampton artlovers.com/gallery) and learn about a time when segration laws were in place, an era in which Black singers and musicians traveled to Miami Beach to entertain but were prohibited from staying in the hotels where they performed.
• Catch a performance at the Black Archives
Historic Lyric Theater
Cultural Arts Complex, which houses the famed Lyric Theatre. The 400-seat venue is considered the oldest theater in Miami. First opened in 1913, it’s the last piece of Little Broadway, which
• When it’s time to dine, try chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Overtown outpost of Red Rooster (redroosterovertown.com) , serving globally inspired soul food. For a truly local spot that’s been dishing up favorites since the 1940s, visit Jackson Soul Food (jacksonsoulfood.com) . Order the oxtail with a side of collard greens and save room for the renowned peach cobbler for dessert.
READY TO EXPLORE A NEIGHBORHOOD THAT ISN’T YOUR OWN? TAKE IN A DIFFERENT SIDE OF THE CITY AT FIVE OF OUR FAVORITE PARTS OF TOWN.VISIT FLORIDA
• South Beach’s most iconic street, Ocean Drive, features historic Art Deco buildings and more. When you’re ready for a bike break, grab an all-day breakfast at The Front Porch Café, which has been in operation for more than 30 years. (frontporchoceandrive.com)
• The nearly 4-mile-long Miami Beach Boardwalk offers ocean views, colorful Lifeguard Towers, and Lummus Park. The paved path south of 21st Street (known as The Promenade) is bike-friendly.
• Swing by Lincoln Road and cool off with a cone or a cup from the newest outpost of Salt & Straw ice cream. (saltandstraw.com)
• Head to South Pointe Park for views of the bay, the Miami skyline, and Fisher Island. Take a stroll on the pier and treat yourself to a waterfront meal at Smith & Wollensky (smithandwollensky.com)
• A 9-acre botanical garden, The Kampong is one of just five National Tropical Botanical Gardens in the country. Don’t miss its 80-year-old, 50-ton Tanzanian baobab tree. (ntbg. org/gardens/kampong)
• Stock your fridge at the Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Market Aside from fresh produce and a vegan cold food bar, stop by for an ice cream sandwich from Courtney’s Cookies, whose vegan, gluten-free creations are as close to healthy as dessert can be. (glaserorganicfarms.com)
• When you need to cool off, head to Kennedy Park and spot the famous A.C.’s Icees truck. Serving up the best frozen lemonade in Miami, longtime Grove resident Allan Cohen has made each batch fresh every morning since 1978. (305-255-7648)
• Independent bookstore Books and Books is stocked with a mix of bestsellers and titles from small publishers you may not have heard of (knowledgeable employees are at the ready to help you select your next page-turner). Be sure to swing by the back rooms devoted to antiquarian rarities and kids’ books. (booksandbooks.com)
• Visit The Citadel, a public space with more than 10 restaurants serving everything from ramen at Yuzu to burritos at Guerito’s. Stop by shopping destination Pivot Mkt, featuring 30 artisan boutiques selling clothing, home goods, and more from brands like Nomad Tribe (thecitadelmiami.com)
• For a sweet treat, be on the lookout for the Peel dessert truck. The Miami Shores brand makes its banana-based soft serve with perfectly edible fruit that would otherwise go to waste simply because of its looks. (peelsoftserve.com)
• Literary lovers should stop by IS Projects (isprojectsfl.com), which offers workshops in bookmaking, paper marbling, screen printing, and more. Check out books and magazines you won’t see at your run-of-the-mill newsstand at Dalé Zine (dale zine.com), an independent publisher showcasing multimedia artists and hosting weekend activations.
• For a casual dinner, take a seat at La Natural, a chic spot serving pizza and natural wines. A standout pie is the white pizza covered in diced scallions and a sprinkle of Szechuan pepper. (lanaturalmiami.com)
DIGITAL CREATOR, @MIAMITURISTICO
“I love the mix of cultures, meeting people from around the globe, and being able to try different cuisines and flavors. It’s a city that is always growing, with new places to visit and new restaurants to try.”
“I go to The Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne for special occasions. It’s the perfect spot; the views are breathtaking and the food and service are great.”
“The Miami Mountain sculpture right outside of The Bass in Miami Beach is so colorful for pictures. The waterfront walk from Bayside Marketplace passing Bayfront Park is amazing. The giant M Domino sculpture at Albert Pallot Park is also one of my favorites, with great views and a nice playground, too.”
“I love Little Havana. It’s a unique place in Miami with so much culture, great restaurants, and a beautiful place to walk around and spend time. I usually go to Brickell and Little Havana in the same day, since these are very close destinations with so many things to do for a perfect day out in Miami.”
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’VE DONE IT ALL? HIT UP THESE LESSER-KNOWN GEMS (THAT MAY JUST BECOME YOUR NEW GO-TOS).
This 50,000-square-foot immersive art experience is a must-do for all ages. Walk Superblue’s mirrored maze sculpture, interact with digital worlds of flowers and waterfalls, watch your own heart beat to the glow of 3,000 lights, and so much more. (superblue.com/miami)
MUSEUM & GARDENS
CHECK OUT: THE DEERING ESTATE
Located just south of Miami and overlooking Biscayne Bay, the Deering Estate was the 1920s home of Charles Deering, a wealthy industrialist. His millionaire half-brother, James Deering, built Vizcaya, the Mediterranean palace and gardens. Visitors can walk through the Stone House, a grand home inspired by Spanish castles and set on more than 400 acres. Unlike Vizcaya, the Deering Estate lacks furnishings, which makes it seem hauntingly empty (and that’s part of its magic). Don’t miss the wine cellar concealed behind a false wall and a 3-ton bank vault door in the basement; it originally housed 4,500 bottles of Champagne, wine, and spirits, hidden away during Prohibition. (deeringestate.org)
STONE CRAB
CHECK OUT: BLUE RUNNER SEAFOOD
On Saturdays and Sundays, get ready for a crackin’ good meal at Blue Runner Seafood. During season, Paco Fernando’s food truck serves up stone crabs of all sizes with homemade mustard sauce, plus outstanding fish dip and the freshest fish and shellfish around. Bring your appetite and be on the lookout for this blue-and-white truck parked on Biscayne Boulevard, just north of Miami Shores in the Waggle Brothers Pet Spa parking lot. (786-499-9334)
GARDEN
CHECK OUT: PINECREST GARDENS
What was once known as Parrot Jungle in the 1970s is now Pinecrest Gardens. The parrots are gone, but this botanical delight still brims with colors and textures, including a native cypress slough, a tropical hardwood hammock, riverine landscapes,
several specialty gardens (including a desert garden and a butterfly garden), and more than 1,000 varieties of both native and non-native tropical flora. Be sure to stop by on Sundays (in season) for the onsite farmers market. (pinecrestgardens.org)
CHECK OUT: EL ESPACIO 23
Get a gander at billionaire developer Jorge M. Pérez’s private art collection at El Espacio 23. When Pérez donated his art collection to the Miami Art Museum in 2011 (today known as the PAMM), he both convinced the organization to change its name to honor him and solved his serious art-storage problem. Fast-forward to 2018, when Pérez found himself once again in need of a place to display the more than 1,000 works he’d collected in the years since—including conceptual art pieces that address issues like immigration, homelessness, sexism, racism, poverty, inequality, and urban decay—all of which are now on display at this 28,000-squarefoot space in Allapattah. (elespacio23.org) «
For Anastasia Koutsioukis and Ahmet Erkaya—partners in business and life, and co-owners of some of Miami’s favorite culinary lifestyle brands including Mandolin Aegean Bistro and Mrs. Mandolin boutique in the Design District—it was love at first sight.
Koutsioukis, who is Greek, moved from Toronto to New York in 1997 to pursue a career in fashion marketing. She met Turkish-born Erkaya—who arrived in the city after working in the kitchens of Istanbul—in 2004 at Sala, a restaurant where he had recently found work. “I set eyes on him even though we were [from] historically rival cultures,” she recalls. “We had the same taste in music and food, and shared family values.”
The pair quickly started dating; Koutsioukis says they “ate [their] way around New York” together. But neither Koutsioukis nor Erkaya could find a place that served the type of fresh, Aegean-inspired cuisine they had both grown up eating. Sure, their nationalities were different (even at odds, at least politically and historically), Koutsioukis admits. But both Greek and Turkish cultures are rooted in recipes that
have been passed down over generations during hours spent in the kitchen together. The couple knew they were onto an untapped idea, so their aspirations naturally turned to opening a restaurant of their own. After a 2008 trip to Miami, they fell in love with the Design District and the Miami scene. A year later, they made their Magic City move, opening Mandolin Aegean Bistro in 2009.
The place was a hit, and when devoted patrons started calling Koutsioukis “Mrs. Mandolin,” she adopted the moniker and applied it to the couple’s brand extensions. Beyond that original bistro, the couple now owns and operates Mrs. Mandolin, a lifestyle market in the Design District offering artisanal home products, pantry staples, apothecary items, accessories, and lifestyle goods sourced from the Mediterranean. There’s also, Mr. Mandolin restaurant, with locations in Wynwood and MiMo’s Vagabond Hotel (which has a Mrs. Mandolin Café & Bakery tucked inside, too); The Drexel, their coastal Mediterranean restaurant on Miami Beach; and a Mrs. Mandolin outpost in the SoHo Beach House. Coming soon is Next Door, a meze and wine bar that will open in the Design District next door to Mandolin Aegean Bistro, plus more projects on the drawing board including a northern expansion into Palm Beach County.
Hospitality and food come naturally to Koutsioukis, who says her childhood was filled with home-cooked Greek meals and festivities. “I always set the tables using our good china, picked flowers in the garden, and enjoyed lots of family and friends,” Koutsioukis says. “I loved to help entertain at a young age because my parents were entrepreneurs who invited friends over to our house. I have fond memories of holidays and dinner parties.”
Meanwhile, Erkaya was raised in Izmir, Turkey—a bustling city on the country’s Aegean coast—in a home that also revolved around food. “Our meals were festive, and the family always came together for them,” Erkaya recalls. “My childhood was similar to Anastasia’s in the sense that our moms cooked well and our grandparents were involved in our upbringing.”
It’s their backgrounds and the combination of their native cultures, the couple says, that fuel what they do at their Aegean-themed restaurants and markets. “I missed the love and happiness passed through my family with food,” says Koutsioukis. “Ahmet and I were interested in offering our guests the joy of food and the spirit of joy that we had experienced in our own homes. We do that daily in our restaurants, and we love it.”
For the ingredient-driven menus at their various restaurants and markets, the couple collaborates on offerings that exude hospitality and the bounty of the Mediterranean. Koutsioukis takes the reins when it comes to the brand’s breezy Mediterranean design inspo and creative interiors. For his part, Erkaya curates the beverage menu and educates his staff and guests on wines.
“Wine is a passion of mine,” he explains. “It led me to establish relationships with winemakers on the Greek islands of Tinos, Santorini, and Paros, where we spend summers. The result is that we offer the Miami community crisp, sharp wines from Greek varietals and pair [them] with what we cook.”
Koutsioukis and Erkaya recently brought their collaborative magic to bear in an alfresco brunch at their Miami home, where they invited close friends to celebrate all things Aegean. In line with their individual passions, Koutsioukis designed the tablescape, selected the florals,
and prepared the starters, salads, and meze boards. Erkaya picked the wines—each crafted from small-harvest vineyards on Greek islands—and grilled the entrées.
“We love to co-host,” says Koutsioukis. “While I have been entertaining since I was a child, I am easier and breezier than my mom and grandma. I like to offer dining through all the senses—eyes, ears, scents, tastes, [it’s] all engaged.”
As guests arrived, they noshed on a variety of appetizers, including a meze board of tzatziki, hummus, roasted eggplant dip, and crudités; Greek cheese boards of Halloumi and Manouri with Greek tomato jam, grapes, nuts, olives, and dried Greek oregano; and roasted peppers marinated in olive oil and garlic.
Erkaya paired the starting bites with two small-batch wines harvested in Paros, Greece, in 2021 by Ktima Roussos: a white blend made from Assyrtiko, Malagousia, and Monemvasia grapes, and a rosé made from Malagousia
Clockwise from above: A classic Greek salad of tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, green peppers, capers, feta, and Kalamata olives; Greek wines complemented the meal; Ahmet Erkaya tends to the kabobs on the grill. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: A meze board trio of hummus, roasted eggplant dip, and tzatziki served with vegetables; Anastasia Koutsioukis preps the table for guests; a cheese board featuring Aegean delights.
and Black Aidani grapes. “We also offer these wines at our restaurants and sell to others,” Erkaya says of his selections. “They are made in the true fashion of simple winemaking.”
Koutsioukis curated a Mediterraneaninspired dining table awash in her favorite shades of blue and white—colors that remind her of the sun, sea, and sand. “Nature is always my inspiration,” she says of the setting, with pieces pulled from the couple’s restaurants (and many available for sale at their Mrs. Mandolin markets). “I love to mix heirloom pieces with current tabletop items. My backyard is Mediterraneanmeets-Miami.”
Koutsioukis selected raffia-fringed placemats by Adriana Castro to set the stage for the hand-painted blue-and-white-striped dishes and matching smaller plates created by designer and brunch guest Carolina Kleinman. Tall blue vintage glasses, pottery beverage vessels from Mexico, bamboo flatware from Sabre Paris, and blue-andwhite-striped cotton napkins rounded out the scene.
A pair of sea urchin–shaped vases brimming with orange ranunculus, pink peonies, and wildflowers dotted the center of the table. “She sets the most effortlessly beautiful table,” says Kleinman (better known as Miami-based designer Carolina K). “I work with artisans around the world to create homeware and fashion, and no one has a more unique style than Anastasia with her old-meets-new aesthetic. She makes everything look simple and elegant.”
The hosts served brunch family style. Small-plate courses included shaved cauliflower salad with Turkish dates; nutty Kefalograviera cheese drizzled with a lemon-honey vinaigrette; and a Greek salad of tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, capers, green peppers, feta, and Kalamata olives. Erkaya paired the selections with a 2012 Vaptistis Potamisi from Greece’s Tinos island.
Skewers of chicken and shrimp kabobs marinated with olive oil, lemon, sea salt, and oregano followed, complemented by an ALS Extreme Terroir Assyrtiko, a wine harvested in Santorini and vilified in Syros in 2019. Dessert of Greek yogurt topped with honey and fresh strawberries, paired with a 2020 late-harvest Mastroyianni Roditis varietal, ended the afternoon on a decidedly sweet note.
Though serving up their brand of Mediterranean style at home is a change from their normal in-restaurant routine, Koutsioukis and Erkaya cherish both types of entertaining. “I love transforming and transporting guests elsewhere for the day by changing the atmosphere with colorful plates, music, visuals, and through the tastes of Greece,” Koutsioukis says. “I love the story around the table and the food. To see joy on our guests’ faces is wonderful. You can say that my heart is truly into entertaining.”
Fendi handbag
Floral design by The Special Event Resource and Design Group, West Palm Beach, specialeventresource.com
Opposite page: Carolina Herrera dress; Roger Vivier heels, handbag. For buying information, turn to page 100.
Model: Temperance, The Source Models, Miami
Hair and makeup: Deborah Koepper, Deborah Koepper Beauty, Palm Beach
AVENTURA intrigues, entertains, keeps readers informed on trends in dining, fashion, beauty, the arts and entertainment, fun and celebrities. Meet locals who are making their mark and discover all that is happening in the area.
aventuramagazine.com
ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES FIND 103 OF THE TOP LAWYERS AS CHOSEN BY THEIR PEERS. WE PROFILE SOME OF THE BEST LEGAL MINDS PRACTICING IN THE AVENTURA AREA.
Gino J. Buttó
Famulari & Butto, PLLC Coral Gables 321-749-4582 nauticallawyers.com
Brandon L. Chase Law Offices of Brandon L. Chase Coral Gables 305-677-2228 chasejustice.com
David H. Lichter Lichter Law Firm Aventura 305-356-7555 lichterlawfirm.com
Aventura Magazine partnered with the firm Professional Research Services, which asked licensed Miami-Dade County attorneys who they would recommend, other than themselves, in the area. Attorneys were allowed to name up to three colleagues in each specialty. Nominees were then evaluated on the basis of the survey results, the status of their licenses, and their standing with The Florida Bar. Qualifying attorneys who received the highest number of votes are reflected on the following list.
Liliana Loebl Kaplan Loebl LLC Aventura 305-937-0777 kaplanloebl.com
Rodney A. Max Upchurch Watson White & Max Miami 305-266-1224 uww-adr.com
Andrew S. Berman Young, Berman, Karpf & Gonzalez, P.A. Miami 305-377-2291 ybkklaw.com
Wm. Allen Bonner South Florida Appeals, PA Miami 305-209-1262 sfappeals.com
Jeffrey A. Cohen Carlton Fields, P.A. Miami 305-539-7289 carltonfields.com
Elliot B. Kula Kula & Associates, P.A. Miami 305-354-3858 ext. 302 kulalegal.com
William C. Arnhols Akerman LLP Miami 305-982-5623 akerman.com
Bowman Brown Shutts & Bowen LLP Miami 305-379-9107 shutts.com
Carl Fornaris Winston & Strawn LLP Miami 305-910-0626 winston.com
Michael S. Budwick Meland Budwick, P.A. Miami 305-358-6363
Daniel Y. Gielchinsky DGIM Law, LLC Aventura 786-698-6301 dgimlaw.com
John B. Hutton III Greenberg Traurig LLP Miami 305-579-0788 gtlaw.com
Isaac M. Marcushamer DGIM Law, LLC Aventura 786-698-6307 dgimlaw.com
Trinette Zarran Law Offices of Trinette Zarran, PA Miami Lakes 305-450-5378 zarranlaw.com
Enjoliqué Aytch Lett Greenberg Traurig LLP Miami 305-579-0640 gtlaw.com
Lawrence D. Silverman Sidley Austin LLP Miami 305-391-5204 sidley.com
Joshua R. Alhalel Alhalel Law Aventura 305-563-9060 alhalel-law.com
Damian D. Daley DLF Attorneys Miami Lakes 786-837-7733 dlf-legal.com
Jeffrey R. Sonn Sonn Law Group Aventura 305-912-3000 sonnlaw.com
Martin G. Burkett Akerman LLP Fort Lauderdale 305-982-5578 akerman.com
Jacob Joseph Givner Givner Law Group, LLP Miami 305-933-9970 thegivnerlawgroup.com
Adam Schwartzbaum Edelsberg Law Aventura 786-289-9471 edelsberglaw.com
Jeffrey R. Sonn Sonn Law Group Aventura 305-912-3000 sonnlaw.com
John Arrastia Jr. Continental PLLC Coral Gables 305-677-2707 continentalpllc.com
Adam Feldman Cernitz Law Miami 305-370-3255 cernitzlaw.com
Adam S. Hall
The Hall Law Firm, P.A. Miami 305-374-5030 hallpa.com
Andrew T. Lavin Lavin Law Group, P.A. Miami 954-967-2788 lavinlawgrouppa.com
Allen P. Pegg Hogan Lovells Miami 305-459-6641 hoganlovells.com
Luis A. De Armas Shutts & Bowen LLP Miami 305-415-9414 shutts.com
William G. McCullough Shutts & Bowen LLP Miami 305-347-7310 shutts.com
Roy Black Black Srebnick Miami 305-371-6421 royblack.com
Jason Neufeld Neufeld, Kleinberg & Pinkiert PA Aventura 305-614-3791 neufeldlawfirm.com
Peter D. Waldman
Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman, P.L. Coral Gables 954-763-4242 wsh-law.com
Nexcy De La Rosa-Monroe De La Rosa-Monroe Law Firm Miami Lakes 786-594-3942 delarosamonroelawfirm.com
Elizabeth M. Edwards
Elizabeth M. Edwards, Esq. Coconut Creek 954-617-8175 elizabethedwardsesq.com
Sandy T. Fox Sandy T. Fox P.A. Miami 305-932-6542 miamidivorce.com
Brian M. Karpf Young, Berman, Karpf & Gonzalez, P.A. Miami 954-809-3300 ybkklaw.com
Mitchell K. Karpf Young, Berman, Karpf & Gonzalez, P.A. Miami 954-809-3300 ybkglaw.com
Liliana Loebl Kaplan Loebl LLC Aventura 305-937-0777 kaplanloebl.com
Daniel A. Lurvey
Law Office of Daniel A. Lurvey, P.A. North Miami Beach 305-400-4747
Edith G. Osman Carlton Fields, P.A. Miami 305-539-7258 carltonfields.com
Ellen Dee Silvers
Sonia O’Donnell
O’Donnell Christopher, P.A. Miami Springs 305-640-8958
odonnellchristopher.com
Ellen Dee Silvers, Esq. Aventura 305-931-7112 esilverslaw.com
Shari Stefel Kaplan Loebl LLC Aventura 305-937-0777 kaplanloebl.com
Jacqueline M. Valdespino Valdespino & Associates PA Coconut Grove 305-442-1200 valdespinopa.com
George K. Gomez
The Law Office of George K. Gomez, P.A. Miami Lakes 305-539-0991 gomezlawfirm.org
Linda Osberg-Braun Osberg-Braun Immigration Miami 305-350-0707 osberglaw.com
Michael I. Bernstein The Bernstein Law Firm Miami 305-672-9544 blfmiami.com
Valorie S. Chavin Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Joseph V. Manzo Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP Coral Gables 305-358-7747 hinshawlaw.com
Stephen A. Marino Jr. Ver Ploeg & Marino, P.A. Miami 305-577-3996 vpm-legal.com
James E. Mitchell
Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Yulia G. Salim
Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Candise Shanbron Cernitz Law Miami 305-370-3255 cernitzlaw.com
Rami Shmuely Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Charles S. Thompson Hightower, Stratton, Novigrod & Kantor Miami 305-539-0909 hightowerlaw.net
Keith A. Truppman Mintz Truppman, P.A. North Miami 305-893-5506 mintztruppman.com
Paul D. Bianco Fleit Intellectual Property Law Miami 305-830-2600 fleitip.com
Alexander W.H. Schneider Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P. Miami 305-960-6981 shb.com
Mark Stein Mark Stein Law Aventura 305-356-7550 marksteinlaw.com
Jacob Joseph Givner Givner Law Group, LLP Miami 305-933-9970 thegivnerlawgroup.com
George Mencio Holland & Knight LLP Miami 305-789-7702 hklaw.com
Thomas F. Morante Carlton Fields, P.A. Miami 305-539-7252 carltonfields.com
Ilona Demenina Anderson Saenz & Anderson Aventura 305-503-5131 saenzanderson.com
Marc A. Burton The Burton Firm, P.A. Aventura 305-705-0888 theburtonfirm.com
Suhaill Machado Morales SMM Law, P.A. Miami Lakes 305-518-7026 smmlawfirm.com
Martin Saenz Saenz & Anderson Aventura 305-503-5131 saenzanderson.com
Akiesha Gilcrist Sainvil Greenberg Traurig LLP Miami 305-579-0642 gtlaw.com
Cosme Caballero
Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami
305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Steven K. Deutsch Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami 305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Marc R. Ginsberg Mandina & Ginsberg, PLLC Miami Lakes 305-358-1181 mandinalaw.com
Cory D. Lapin Shaked Law Personal Injury Lawyer Aventura 786-386-1764 shakedlaw.com
Jonathan L. Awner Akerman LLP Miami 954-712-6071 akerman.com
Martin G. Burkett Akerman LLP Fort Lauderdale 305-982-5578 akerman.com
Jacob Joseph Givner Givner Law Group, LLP Miami 305-933-9970 thegivnerlawgroup.com
Monique D. Hayes DGIM Law, LLC Aventura 786-698-6303 dgimlaw.com
Edward R. Blumberg
Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami 305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Robert (Beau) Blumberg Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami 305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Cosme Caballero Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami 305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Justin Cernitz Cernitz Law Miami 305-370-3255 cernitzlaw.com
Steven K. Deutsch Deutsch Blumberg & Caballero, P.A. Miami 305-358-6329 deutschblumberg.com
Jason Neufeld Neufeld, Kleinberg & Pinkiert PA Aventura 305-614-3791 neufeldlawfirm.com
Rami Shmuely
Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Akiesha Gilcrist Sainvil Greenberg Traurig LLP Miami 305-579-0642 gtlaw.com
Lisa I. Glassman
Lisa I. Glassman, P.A.
Aventura
561-571-7431
lisathelawyer.com
Elizabeth Amaran has practiced law in South Florida for more than 19 years, specializing in complex immigration and nationality topics. Her Cuban/Ukrainian origin gives her a rich tricultural background and fluency in English, Spanish, and Russian. Amaran keeps ahead of regulatory challenges as global events dictate changes in U.S. immigration policies. Amaran approaches clients’ needs with assertiveness and compassion, as they assimilate into the American culture.
Amaran successfully represents clients before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), immigration courts and federal courts, as well as consular offices, securing family immigration benefits, U.S. visas, and successfully presenting deportation defenses. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has served as a legal consultant in South Florida radio and TV shows, as well as her own radio show on America Radio, addressing legal immigration topics, the latest immigration updates, strategies, and applications of law.
Amaran earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Miami and is a graduate of St. Thomas University School of Law.
2999 NE 191st St., Suite 704 // Aventura 305-931-3500 // amaranlawgroup.com
Harold L. Lewis Haber Law PA Miami 305-379-2400 haber.law
Datan Z. Dorot Dorot & Bensimon Aventura 305-921-9421 dorotbensimon.com
Marc D. Kleiner Kleiner Law Group Aventura 305-517-1392 kleinerlawgroup.com
Steven N. Klitzner Steven N. Klitzner, P.A. Miami 786-829-7782 loridataxsolvers.com
Elysa R. Merlin Dorot & Bensimon Aventura 305-921-9421 dorotbensimon.com
Barry A. Nelson Nelson & Nelson, P.A. North Miami Beach 305-932-2000 estatetaxlawyers.com
Jennifer E. Okcular Nelson & Nelson, P.A. North Miami Beach 305-932-2000 estatetaxlawyers.com
Dustin Sher Dorot & Bensimon Aventura 305-921-9421 dorotbensimon.com
James E. Mitchell Chavin Mitchell Shmuely North Miami 786-345-2055 cmslawgroup.com
Norman J. Benford Greenberg Traurig LLP Miami 305-579-0660 gtlaw.com
Bart H. Chepenik Chepenik Trushin LLP North Miami 305-981-8889 miamifloridaestateplanninglawyer.com
Mitchell A. Hipsman Mitchell A. Hipsman PLLC Aventura 305-733-5924
Gloria M. Garcia Gloria M. Garcia, P.A. Miami Lakes 305-821-1440 ggarcialaw.com
Alberto Naranjo Jr. AN Law Firm, P.A. Miami Lakes 305-942-8070 anlawfirm.com
Mia Pintard Pintard Law Group, PLLC Miami Gardens 888-253-4584 pintardlawgroup.com
Rami Shmuely is the founding partner at Chavin Mitchell Shmuely, located in North Miami, Florida. As a passionate consumer advocate with over 17 years of litigation experience, Rami’s practice focuses on pursuing personal injury compensation for injured persons. Rami’s firm also specializes in insurance coverage claims for policyholders against their insurance companies.
Rami is a premier attorney in his field and has unmatched experience in a career that includes being involved with over 9,000 files on both defense and plaintiff sides. Rami is also a proven trial attorney, procuring one of Florida’s highest premise liability jury verdicts in 2015. Rami prides himself in giving back to his community and those in need. He has logged countless pro bono hours serving those who may not otherwise be able to afford legal counsel. Rami has been selected to Super Lawyers seven times as a Rising Star, Top 40 under 40 in the practice of personal injury, Best Attorneys of America, recognized by Marquis Who’s Who and listed as Attorney and Practice Magazine Top 10 Attorney.
Palm Beach Media Group is a renowned publishing company with print publications representing a mix of proprietary titles and custom magazines, along with digital solutions, serving the entire state of Florida and more.
PALMBEACHMEDIA.COM
We’re letting you in on a secret: The hottest omakase experience in town is only accessible via a covert door marked with a red light and a small blink-and-you’ll-miss-it sign on the side of Coconut Grove’s historic Stirrup House. (Entering through the main entrance is so 2022.) Located behind the Michelin-starred Ariete, Sushi by Scratch is the newest outpost from Californiabased Scratch Restaurants Group, lead by chef/restaurateurs Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee. On the heels of retaining Michelin stars at two of their restaurants in California, the team opened Sushi by Scratch in Miami earlier this year.
The 10-seat, counter-only omakase den is staffed by a team of three chefs and a bar-
tender. Three nightly seatings (5 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 9:30 p.m.) each offer a two-hour-long celebration of nigiri. Every bite is handmade and served as-is— no extras are allowed, including sides of soy sauce, pickled ginger, or wasabi. You’ll eat it the way they make it and trust us, you’ll like it. The flavor profiles are surprising and delightful; a favorite is the hamachi painted with a sweet corn pudding and topped with a sprinkle of sourdough bread crumbs.
Want to take your experience up a notch? Choose the caviar and truffle upgrade, and chefs will top selected pieces with the good stuff. Or opt for one of two beverage pairing options: three sakes, two cocktails, and one beer for $85, or six pours of sake for $110. No matter which you pick, this culinary experience is the kind of secret that’s meant to be shared. (sushi byscratchrestaurants.com)
—Kristen Desmond LeFevrePAIRINGS
TRICK OR TREAT, GIVE US SOMETHING GOOD TO EAT—AND DRINK
BY PAUL RUBIOThink about pairing bubbles, whites, and reds with food, and options come to mind like meat, cheese, seafood, and chocolate. But how about Halloween candy? Sandra Guibord, wine guru and author of Sandra’s Wine Life: Find Your Wine Identity, is changing the way we think about wine, showing us how to incorporate pairings into any holiday or social event, one glass at a time. Guibord sat down with Aventura to reveal some of her top duos for the ultimate wine-paired Halloween. No tricks here, just plenty of adult treats!
(sandraswinelife.com)
Candy: Snickers, Twix, Hershey’s Dark Chocolate
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon
Sandra says: “The big, bold flavors of ripe red berries, oak, spice, and chocolate in Cabernet Sauvignon pair best with candy that has the most complexity. This includes a Snickers bar with peanuts and caramel; Twix bars with vanilla cookie, caramel, and chocolate; and Hershey’s dark chocolate. All are enhanced by the richness of the Cabernet Sauvignon.”
Candy: Butterfinger, Candy Corn Wine: Chardonnay
Sandra says: “A rich, oak-filled, and vanilla-spiced California Chardonnay is a big wine to pair with any food. As far as candy pairings, it tastes especially great with Butterfinger. The crispy, buttery layers inside the chocolate melt in your mouth with each sip. You can also try candy corn as an additional pairing. The acidity in the wine breaks down the candy corn to a creamy and sugary delight. With the crisp air and fall weather, rich, full-bodied Chardonnay is the starring white wine of the season.”
Candy: Sour Patch Kids, Starburst, Skittles, Sweet Tarts
Wine: Sauvignon Blanc
Sandra says: “Because of Sauvignon Blanc’s bright citrus and high acidity, you will want to pair it with fruity and sour candies like Skittles, Sour Patch Kids, Starburst, or Sweet Tarts. The lemon- and lime-flavored candies create the perfect fruit bomb explosion in your mouth when sipping a Sauvignon Blanc. Pairing a chilled Sauvignon Blanc with these fruity treats is surprisingly refreshing and cool.”
Candy: Twizzlers, Reese’s
Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kat, Peanut M&M’s Wine: Pinot Noir
Sandra says: “The bright strawberry flavor of Twizzlers accentuates the bright berry flavor within Pinot Noir. If you prefer chocolate, the peanut butter in Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups is savory and the milk chocolate is light and sweet, complementing the earthy flavors of Pinot Noir. You can also try Peanut M&M’s and Kit Kats. Be sure to sip your Pinot Noir at a cooler temperature (about 55-60 degrees) to ensure the bright berry and spice flavors are enhanced.”
STANDOUTS
AT BOURBON STEAK BY MICHAEL MINA, BUTTERPOACHED STEAKS AND SUPERB SEAFOOD VIE FOR THE LIMELIGHT IN A SEDUCTIVE SPACE PACKED WITH AVENTURA’S STYLE SET AND OLD MONEY SPENDTHRIFTS. TO COMPLEMENT THE BEST-OF-THE-BEST SURF AND TURF, NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF MARIO BEABRAUT HAS REVAMPED THE MENU TO INCLUDE NEW SIGNATURE DISHES. HERE, WE SHARE THREE ADDITIONS PLUS ONE FAVORITE NOT TO MISS. (BOURBONSTEAK MIA.COM) —P.R.
2
Amish Roasted Half Chicken
Chef Beabraut presents a poultry dish to rival its steak and seafood counterparts: a slow-roasted half-chicken— juicy and tender inside yet crispy outside—served over black truffle pomme puree and spinach with a side of glazed carrots.
3
Grilled Branzino
Another new item by Beabraut, this whole branzino is simply prepared with lemon, olive oil, and parsley, and cooked to perfection over the wood-fire grill.
Kale Salad
Black kale and baby kale are massaged in a dressing of tahini, turmeric, and honey, and tossed with a pine nut and quinoa granola, bee pollen, and either Florida citrus or stone fruit (depending on the season).
Michael’s Tuna Tartare
X 1 4
Chef Mina’s signature appetizer is prepared tableside, mixing sushigrade tuna with minced Asian pear, pine nuts, habanero, mint, quail egg yolk, sesame oil, and ancho chile.
Atop the vanguard of Miami’s dazzling dining scene is Fabel Miami, a design-driven, 10,000-square-foot rooftop venue in Wynwood. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch, the restaurant and lounge balances a soothing beach club allure and a high-energy pulse across an eco-chic, whimsical setting by awardwinning M-Rad Architecture firm (principal Matthew Rosenberg is also Fabel’s owner). While DJs play late into the night, guests dine and dance under the stars—some cozy in private dining cabanas, others at the 22-seat travertine stone U-shaped bar, still others at the sleek wooden tables at Fabel’s core.
Executive chef Ian Fleischmann’s Mediterranean-steeped menu unfolds by chapter, beginning with the “foreword” of mezze, followed by a first chapter of apps, second and third of mains and sides, and an epilogue of desserts. Instagramworthy presentations match taste excellence, with standouts including the aroa labneh (foreword), rosette of cobia crudo (chapter 1), crispy cauliflower tagine (chapter 2), and smoked heirloom carrots (chapter 3). As the night passes, the worldclass mixology program assumes a starring role, as does the pricey bottle service. We recommend the Mint Gold, a potent mix of Brugal 1888 Rum, 1800 Coconut Tequila, and roasted pineapple soda. (fabelmiami.com) —P.R.
Concession stands are standard at most public parks in America, but the 9-acre Peacock Park in Coconut Grove bucks the norm, boasting a top Miami restaurant, Glass & Vine . With an entirely outdoor dining room—split between the terrace of the park’s HQ and the grounds’ prolific live oaks—guests can appreciate the alfresco Miami good life in myriad ways. By day and during happy hour, kids can play on the park’s playground while parents enjoy a cocktail (hello, mai tais) or a cold
glass of rosé alongside a menu of modern Floridian cuisine that includes scallop crudo with black truffle ponzu, feta-rich watermelon salad, grilled local mahi, and a juicy stacked cheeseburger. In the evening, look forward to a magical garden setting, thanks to the braided lights that illuminate the trees, enhanced by the sounds of live jazz Wednesday to Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. It’s all very cool, casual, and on point with the Grove’s bohemian roots. (glassandvine.com) —P.R.
October is more than the sum of all its ghouls and goblins. This month celebrates quintessential fall flavors with such observances as National Pumpkin Day (October 26) and National Apple Day (October 21). Even before Halloween, you can satisfy your sweet tooth on National Cinnamon Roll Day (October 4), National Homemade Cookies Day (October 1), and National Dessert Day (October 14). Yet, if you enjoy a subtler approach to seasonal celebrations, consider embracing autumn with a darker spirit—and no, I don’t mean the eerie specter variety.
Bourbon has a complexity and spice that screams “fall” louder than any werewolf or witch ever could. It’s ideal for cozy evenings around the fire or warm gatherings with friends and family. Bourbon’s oaky sweetness blends well with seasonal offerings such as prime harvested grapefruit and fragrant rosemary. This adaptation of the classic Brown Derby cocktail swaps honey for rosemary syrup, making for the perfect fall sipper.
Ingredients
1 1/2 oz. bourbon
1 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz. rosemary syrup (recipe below)
1/4 oz. allspice liqueur
2 dashes orange bitters
«
Add all ingredients to a shaker and shake with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a grapefruit slice and a rosemary spear.
1 cup water
1 cup agave syrup
7-8 fresh rosemary spears
Bring the water to a boil and add the agave syrup. Stir to dissolve. Add the rosemary spears and remove pot from heat. Steep for at least 30 minutes. Pour the cooled syrup through a mesh strainer into an airtight glass container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
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When Richard and Nicole Brilliant downsized from a home in Boca Raton, they wanted their new Aventura condo to feel like an eclectic boutique hotel. “We were looking for something that represented our personal style,” says Nicole. “We also wanted to include sentimental pieces from our past combined with new acquisitions that could become heirlooms in the future.”
After gutting the condo, the couple discussed their dream with Miami-based interior designer Alex Tate of Mr. Alex Tate Design, who envisioned a warm and functional space. “We didn’t want it to feel sparse or minimal,” says Tate. “The clients have such fun and exuberant personalities that we wanted to reflect their eclectic love for all things collected and found.”
Tate opted to use many of the couple’s favorite pieces. “I wanted to incorporate much of what they had into the design,” he says.
In the kitchen, the quartz counter and blue island complement a trio of walnut and bouclé stools and accessories in pops of vivid orange, blue, and green. For the foyer, the couple loved the abstract Lego photograph by Valentino Fialdini, especially the colorful vibe it creates as they enter the home. Tate refinished their own chairs in a modern blue paint and reupholstered them in Schumacher velvet.
The sitting room delights with a set of abstract Dera prints hanging above a sofa from Burke Decor, as well as another one of their chairs in a mix of colors and patterns. The living room is anchored by architectural wall panels in wood, with the background color custom matched from one of the couple’s personal items.
“The design is inviting and unique with a lot of color and cool pieces we would never have picked out on our own,” Nicole says of the finished product. “The space makes us smile every time we walk in.”
(mralextate.com) –Linda
MarxWe often hear about the benefi ts of adding a pop of color to a room. But there’s also something to be said for the timelessness of a space that relies on a muted color palette, not to mention the longevity of neutral decor versus more colorful trends. Here are some of my favorite ways to strike a balance among pattern, texture, and tonality to create a room that’s light on color but heavy on style. (alenacapradesigns.com)
You don’t need bold color to create a beautiful space. Choose warm neutrals in taupe, oatmeal, and beige, or cooler options like gray and greige. You can also opt for the timeless combo of black and white or the ever-popular Miami look of soft creams and whites.
Even highly neutral spaces can incorporate beautiful prints and patterns. Tone on tone options (different shades of the same color) are a perfect way to bring in some visual interest while keeping a serene feeling. This look can be achieved through wallpaper, fabric, or even an area rug.
WITHOUT A DOUBT, BOUCLÉ FABRICS HAVE BEEN A HOT DESIGN TREND, DUE IN PART TO THEIR ABILITY TO ADD WARMTH AND TEXTURE TO ANY ROOM. BOUCLÉ IS A GREAT UPHOLSTERY FABRIC FOR ACCENT CHAIRS, OTTOMANS, OR BENCHES, OFFERING A LOOK THAT IS BOTH COZY AND CHIC.
XWhen designing without color, be mindful to introduce an element that breaks things up a bit. Adding texture (via decorative pillows, area rugs, window treatments, artwork, wall decor, or wall coverings) is a perfect way to do just that. Don’t be afraid to layer in different textures and play with scale for maximum effect.
So many beautiful things in home decor come right from nature. Incorporate slabs of natural stone or furnishings with wood accents in varying tones, both of which can lend richness to an all-neutral space. Speaking of nature, if you’re keen to add some color to your neutral interior, consider plants. Nothing brings a bit of freshness to a space like greenery, so this is the one color to feature, if any.
WHETHER
BY LIZA GRANT SMITHTAKE A FANCY TO
GAME PLAN
The Two’s Company marble mancala set ($125) boasts silver and gold metal stones. Sharron Lewis Design Center, Miami (sharronlewis.com)
Raquel Mothé of Mothé Design aimed to create a rich sanctuary by combining luxury with functionality. “I focused on incorporating ample storage space, an open layout with a beautiful view, and abundant natural light,” she says. “To add an element of opulence, I opted for high-end materials, such as utilizing full book-matched slabs of marble for the accent wall, framing the window view, and extending throughout the shower walls. The result was a harmonious space that exudes both lavishness and practicality.” Miami (mothedesign.com)
RING TRUE
Sferra’s Anelli napkin rings ($45 for set of two) highlight the mineral elegance of marble. ThreadCount, Miami (tcmiami.com)
Take your tablescape on a celestial journey with Kim Seybert’s Cosmos placemats ($380 for set of four), featuring ivory, gold, and silver marbling. Violetas Lifestyle and Home, Miami, Coral Gables (violetashomedesign.com)
LIGHT OF DAY
While the Currey and Company marble Khalil table lamp ($801) lights up dark spaces at night, it also shines during the day. LBU Lighting, Miami, North Miami Beach (lbulighting.com)
SERVE ITS PURPOSE
STYLISH R&R Supreme comfort meets luxe design on this marblepatterned, 100-percent cashmere throw (starts at $1,475) by Saved New York Nest Casa, Miami (nestcasa.com)
Behind its laminated black forest marble door fronts, the Linea marble server ($4,000) from City Furniture conceals lots of storage. City Furniture locations (cityfurniture.com)
CUT ABOVE
With handles carved from black Marquina marble, these knives ($50 for set of three) from Williams Sonoma will level up a chic cheese plate. Williams Sonoma, Miami, Coral Gables (williamssonoma.com)
IT’S THE MATERIAL OR THE METHOD OF DESIGN, MARBLE BRINGS STRENGTH ANDEMILIO COLLAVINO
Alfresco living is practically a requirement for South Florida residency, and outdoor showers have been trending in the luxury home market for some time now. This popularity, in turn, has bred creativity. Far beyond old-school showerheads installed in out-of-the-way exterior corners, today’s showers have taken on new roles and are now available in a wide range of styles and materials. Take a look at some of the area’s most captivating showers and learn what it takes to produce a wow-worthy water feature.
When envisioning your outdoor shower, it’s important to think through how you’ll use it. Will your family rinse off after a dip in the pool? Will this shower serve as an extension of your primary bathroom? While the shower may look great in a certain space in your backyard, be sure to situate it where it will be most useful. With its wooden walls and loose stone floor, this shower by SDH Studio is an intriguing backdrop for the primary bathroom, connected via windows and a sliding glass door. (sdhstudio.com)
Here’s where the true fun begins. Once you’ve chosen your location, it’s time to decide whether you’d like your shower to be its own standout accent or a continuation of your home’s interior/exterior. If it’s the latter, echo materials you have utilized elsewhere in your abode to create cohesiveness and flow. If your goal is to have a showstopper, then first determine the mood you’d like to evoke. Glass tiles add a more sophisticated feel, while wood brings an earthy, organic vibe that can be enhanced by potted plants. For a biophilic approach, consider camouflaging the showerhead in a green wall or vertical garden. Escala Construction took that prompt to heart and surrounded this outdoor shower fixture with vibrant landscaping of different heights and varieties. (escalaconstruction.com)
When designing your outdoor shower, opt for as much or as little privacy as you feel comfortable with. That being said, privacy features present another opportunity to add visual intrigue. High cutouts and/or an open-air top can provide a view, while still obscuring the view of you. In this outdoor shower, Choeff, Levy, Fischman Architecture & Design was able to deliver optimum privacy without any feelings of confinement thanks to lofty walls and tiered landscaping. (clfarchitects.com)
Don’t forget the odds and ends that will pull the whole space together. For instance, you’ll need a hook or a small cabinet for towels, plus a niche or shelf to store shampoo and soap. And consider a teak shower seat where you can rest while showering or place belongings such as a coverup. In this shower by Paskoski Construction, practical details such as built-in shelving and a towel hook do not distract from the sleek design. (paskoskiconstruction.com)
PAGE 68
Floral printed skirt ($4,500), knit sweater ($2,050), Rose heels ($2,050), socks ($460), Dior, Miami Design District, dior.com
PAGE 69
BUYING INFORMATION (305)
Mini Lady 95.22 handbag ($6,100), Dior, Miami Design District, dior.com
PAGE 70
Printed silk muslin dress (price upon request), crumpled shiny boots ($2,775), black patent handbag (price upon request), Chanel, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, chanel.com
PAGE 71
Wedge knee boots in black satin and silver beaded tartan ($10,000), shoulder bag in black satin and silver beaded tartan with pearl strap ($3,495), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables, jimmychoo.com; glass flower ring ($1,150), Chanel, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, chanel.com.
PAGE 72
Small Le 37 bucket bag ($2,790), Saint Laurent, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, ysl.com
PAGE 73
Printed pleated blouse with scarf detail ($4,950), printed pleated skirt ($6,990), Balenciaga, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, balenciaga.com
PAGE 74
Black Interlace leather Peekaboo ISeeU medium handbag ($6,300), Fendi, Aventura Mall, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, fendi.com
PAGE 75
Dress with botanical floral print faille ($2,490), Carolina Herrera, carolina herrera.com; Virgule Babies heels in patent leather ($1,250), Viv’ Choc Strass Flower mini bag in yellow suede ($4,375), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.
Artefacto is internationally recognized for creating the most captivating residences in the most desirable addresses and architectural towers throughout South Florida.
The Bacchi family originated in Italy and moved to Brazil in 1920. Patriarch Albino Bacchi launched Artefacto in São Paulo in 1976 with a collection of renewable natural pieces.
At 18, Paulo Bacchi joined his father’s business, expanding the brand to the United States in 2002, where he quickly emerged as the most powerful figure in luxury home furnishings and staging services in the region.
Artefacto brand loyalists include the country’s most respected real estate developers and brokers, awardwinning interior designers and architects, as well as global celebrities and socialites who call Miami home.
Today, Paulo shares his passion and drive for excellence with his twin sons, Bruno Bacchi and Pietro Bacchi, who help manage all aspects of the brand’s international growth and operations—from the expansive Miami-based distribution center and vast local inventory, to creating singular turnkey lifestyles for such iconic architectural masterpieces as Bentley Residences, Jade Signature, 2000 Ocean, Arte Surfside and Residences by Armani Casa.
“Thinking about innovation and longevity through the generations is who we are, not only as a brand, but as a
family moving into the third generation with my sons helping to shape our future,” says Paulo.
“Alcheme” is the newest collection by Brazilian architect and designer Patricia Anastassiadis for Artefacto—eight pieces born from the excellence of Artefacto’s half-century of sophistication.
Now available to experience in Artefacto’s three Miami showrooms, the collection delivers traditional Brazilian aesthetics, featuring the award-winning understated stylings of Anastassiadis, and meticulously handmade in Brazil by Artefacto.
Inspired by legacy and evolution, Anastassiadis says Alcheme is the conversion of one element into another. “I always try to provide a sense of continuity to my work,” she says. “One collection never overlaps the other. On the contrary, it expands our range of possibilities.”
Alcheme is designed for the most varied environments in harmony with people and the planet, while extending pleasure and possibility. A signature Artefacto home features layered organic textures and furnishings, surrounded by warm contemporary aesthetics rich in neutral tones.
For more information or to experience Alcheme, visit artefacto.com or an Artefacto showroom in Aventura, Coral Gables, or Doral.
Sarah Zohar is the founder of Sarah Z Designs, a start-tofinish interior design firm based in Aventura, Florida. She is a renowned interior designer with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. Sarah is known for her elegant and timeless designs and her ability to create luxurious yet functional living spaces.
Growing up in New York, Sarah was surrounded by family members who were in the building business. She was exposed to construction and design from an early age and always had a keen eye for aesthetics. When she relocated from New York to Miami, Sarah pursued her passion for design and enrolled in The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale.
Upon graduating, Sarah honed her skills and gained valuable experience working on various high-end residential projects, in which she paved the way for herself and established her own style and design principles.
She moved to Aventura, Florida, in 2004, where she founded Sarah Z Designs. She wanted to create a design firm that would focus on providing a full-service experience that would take clients from the initial design phase all the way to installation and completion. She has stayed true to her vision over the years and has become an expert in all aspects of the design process.
Sarah’s designs are characterized by elegance, timelessness, and functionality. She believes that good design should blend form and function seamlessly, and she always prioritizes her clients’ needs and lifestyles
when creating her designs. Her attention to detail and exceptional eye for design have earned her a reputation as one of the top interior designers in the region.
One of the things that sets Sarah Z Designs apart from other design firms is its focus on building relationships with clients. Sarah’s team works closely with clients to understand their personal style, preferences, and vision for their living spaces. The team combines the clients’ ideas and preferences with their expertise and creativity to create personalized design solutions that exceed their expectations.
Sarah is also passionate about using natural elements materials in her designs. She believes that it is possible to create luxurious spaces, which have a direct correlation with a client’s overall health and well-being, while still being mindful of the environment.
Sarah’s work has been featured in numerous publications, including Florida Design, Interiors Magazine, and SoFlo Habitat. Her projects range from high-end residential and commercial spaces to boutique hotels and restaurants. Regardless of the project, Sarah and her team take pride in providing the highest level of service and quality to their clients.
When she’s not creating stunning interiors, Sarah enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and spending time with her family. She is also involved in various charitable organizations and regularly donates her time and expertise to help those in need.
Alfredo Leon has been a Venezuelan-American architect and designer for more than 22 years in the Florida area, and has more than 36 years of total experience in many residential and commercial projects in USA and his native Venezuela.
His company, Abitar Design Group LLC, creates projects from A to Z. A one-stop design company, his team creates preliminary architectural plans as well as final architectural and engineering plans. The team manages permitting plans, coordinating the construction process with its own contractors and subcontractors, choses all final finishing materials and furniture as part of the interior design phase and supervises all the construction phases needed to complete projects. The incredible design team includes Design Director Alfredo Leon and Designers Kayleigh Savits and Virginia Cordido to guide your project dreams while coordinating all the details to make them real.
Abitar Design Group creates based on the dreams you have for your project, offering customized design solutions, including innovative ideas and materials with personal guidance through the process till the end.
The company’s principal motto is to satisfy clients with the final product and assure that the result is singular and innovative with personal attention to details.
Abitar Design Group provides excellent customer service and guides you with experience, knowledge, and unique taste till finish your design project. ABITAR
For more information: 754.234.0871 or visit alfredoleon.net
PHOTO BY CARLOS HIDALGOWHO: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz WHAT: Summer Kickoff with the Miami Heat’s Duncan Robinson WHERE: The Elser Hotel & Residences Miami
HIGHLIGHTS: Guests enjoyed DJ performances, gourmet bites, and cocktails overlooking Biscayne Bay.
WHO: Jackson Health Foundation WHAT: The 2023 Golden Angels Gala WHERE: Ice Palace Studios, Miami HIGHLIGHTS: Celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital, the evening honored the Golden Angel Society, whose members play a vital role in advancing Jackson’s mission.
Leonard Pianko M.D FACC
Graduate of Mount Sinai Medical School.
Voted “Best Doctor” by Castle Connolly.
Board Certified in Internal Medicine & Cardiovascular disease.
Best of VIP care.
House calls, nursing home & assisted living visits.
Accredited Nuclear Stress, Ultrasound & Echo Labs.
The runways were ablaze with the hottest shows, including:
Returning for its eleventh year (and timed to coincide with the opening of stone crab season), the South Beach Seafood Festival promises four days of sea-you-there excitement October 18-21. This year’s lineup offers chef competitions, cooking demonstrations, and more. Score tickets for a five-course meal, with one slated to take place at Joe’s Stone Crab and showcase executive chef Andre Bienvenu’s cuisine paired with fine wines curated by master sommeliers (October 18), and another at the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel featuring an international twist on surf and turf (October 19). On Friday, things really get cracking as 20 of Miami’s top chefs go head-to-head in 10 competitive seafood rounds (in categories from ceviche to sushi and everything in between) at the always popular Chef Showdown at Lummus Park. Things reach a delicious culmination at the beach on Saturday with live music and a selection of pop-up cafés by prominent South Florida restaurants including A Fish Called Avalon, Ella’s Oyster Bar, and The Lobster Shack. (sobeseafoodfest.com) —Kristen
Desmond LeFevreWe’re sure we can spark your imagination and bring your dream 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 nearly 100 years. Come and see why.