SOMImag Oct/Nov 2009 by SOMImag

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2009

SUSHI IN SOMI 22

What’s Not Cooking in the South Miami Area

A NEW LOOK FOR SOUTH MIAMI 5 The Birth of a Brand

In Appreciation… As we begin Volume V, Thanks to our Advertisers in Volumes I, II, III, IV and you our Readers. Oct 2005

Nov 2005

Dec 2005

Jan 2006

Feb 2006

Mar 2006

Apr 2006

May 2006

Jun/Jul 2006 Aug/Sept 2006

Volume I Oct / Nov ’06

Dec / Jan ‘07

Feb / Mar ‘07

Apr / May ‘07

Jun / Jul ‘07

Aug / Sept ‘07

Oct / Nov ‘07

Dec / Jan ‘08

Feb / Mar ‘08

Apr / May ‘08

Jun / Jul ‘08

Aug / Sept ‘08

Oct / Nov ‘08

Dec / Jan ‘09

Feb / Mar ‘09

Apr / May ‘09

Jun / Jul ‘09

Aug / Sept ‘09

V o l u m e II V o l u m e III V o l u m e IV Ace Kitchen & Bath Decorative Hardware Alta Cocina American Parking Systems Basil’s Men’s & Tailor Shop Bellezza Spa Benini Bug Beverlee Kagan Antique & Vintage Jewelry Blush Boutique Café Pastis Capretto Shoes Casa Larios Castillo Architecture & Planning Center for Health Enhancement Chamber South Charolotte Lynn-Perez Dan Marino’s Fine Food & Spirits Deli Lane & Sunset Tavern Detlev Hair + Color

East Pottery Imports Edward Beiner Eyewear Fast Frame Finis Terrae First National Bank of South Miami Fitness Together Five Golden Rings Fling Foot Solutions Footworks Cavanaugh’s Shoe Fitters Garden Gate Giancarlo Designs Hookah Lounge HSBC Isabella Salon & Spa Jo-Ann Forster Unique Homes of Miami La Crepe Bistro

Linda A. Marracini, M.D. Little Feet and more… Lottus Floral Designs LVR Institute LVS Salon Group M Cycle Gym Mack Cycle & Fitness Margaux Interiors Marhaba Mediterranean Restaurant Mario’s Dry Cleaning Marisol Martinibar Massage Envy Mazzei Hair Design New Chinatown Nikita Paris Nikki’s Beachhouse Boutique Jianella Restaurant

Just LX Ohana Spa Origin Osteria degli Amici OXXO Care Cleaners Perfect Balance Physio-Core Fitness & Rehab Plaza 57 Poblano Cocina Mexicana Power Pizza Pizzeria Blu Project LX Sebastian Eilert Architecture Sirvanti Soli Organic SoMi Fragrances SoMi SoU Boutique South Miami Hospital ATP

South Miami Heart Center South Miami Jewelers Spa Fifty-Seven Studio LX Sushi Maki The Body Shop The Dog From Ipanema The Red Apple The Shops at Sunset Place Town Kitchen & Bar Trattoria Sole Uni.K.Wax Vida Day Spa & Wellness Center VIGI Miami Xotica Designs

FROM THE PUBLISHER John Edward Smith Welcome to Fall, with its greatly anticipated changes: a new NFL season, the Jay Leno Show, TV premieres, new school projects for kids (and parents!) to do and more…. In October, we begin another year of your Town Center Magazine, now “SoMi Mag.” As we begin Volume V with big changes in the magazine, I want to acknowledge those retail business, restaurants and service providers who contributed to the success of this publication over the last four years. We recognize those advertisers on the inside cover of this issue. Thank you! The South Miami Town Center Magazine was launched in October 2005. Volume I was published essentially each month, consciously branding our area as “Town Center:” This marketing initiative (rather than “Downtown South Miami”) was adopted by the Mayor’s Marketing Task Force in 1996, to convey a more “hometown” image recognizing our unique boutiques and fine restaurants. In Volume II we changed up from a tabloid-size to a large magazine format, publishing every other month. During that year (200607) the magazine grew from 16 to 20 pages. Volume III brought 28 pages, with style changes and more features of interest to our readers. With Volume IV, we changed up our graphics and added an additional eight pages. With those additional eight pages, we published an area-wide business directory. And now on occasion of our Fifth Anniversary, have we got changes for you! “SoMi Mag” reflects the changing dynamic of our exciting “town center.” I hope you like our new masthead! This selection was vetted among over forty key individuals in our community.

town center FAVORITES

!"#$$%&'((((()%&%&'

around town MEAT LOVERS PIZZA > “South Miami Town Center” defines our singularly unique shopping and dining district on the east side of US#1, with our civic area, Metro transit, hospital zone, public library and hotel on the west side of US#1. The entire area is comprised of the City of South Miami and our bordering City of Coral Gables and MiamiDade County east of Red Road. “South Miami Town Center” was the recommended designation by the Mayor’s Marketing Task Force (1996). The tag line “Experience the Difference” was added by the City Manager’s Economic Development Committee in 2005.

Peter J. South Miami

“Splitsville has this great pizza and at a great price – just $12. You gotta try it!” Visitors will find convenient onstreet parking, Valet Parking on Sunset Drive and a centrally located Municipal Garage on 73 Street. Public Transit is directly accessible at the South Miami Metrorail Station.

I have and you’re right. - JES SPLITSVILLE The Shops at Sunset Place The best way to enjoy our “hometown” district is to walk our tree-lined streets or park your bicycle at one of the many bike stands.

RESTAURANTS & NIGHT LIFE

FASHION

page 12

SPAS & SALONS

page 16

HOME FURNISHINGS

page 32

Catalina A. Pinecrest “The Magazine directory is a great resource for me. I keep it in the kitchen area and make ready HEALTH & reference for shopping and dining in the area.” FITNESS

QUICK BITS & OTHER EATERIES page 16 ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

page 26

page 16

SPECIALTY RETAIL & SERVICES

page 34

< MAGAZINE DIRECTORY page 24

Thanks for your comment. We’ve now grouped all the directories in one section of the magazine for quicker reference. - JES 9

BACARDI RUM CUPCAKES > Margaret H. High Pines “I was at the Komen Breast Cancer event at Massage Envy last week, and got a taste of the LA Sweets cupcakes. What a treat!” They bake two different kinds of Bacardi Rum Cupcakes: one with Vanilla Bean Buttercream, the other with Chocolate. They are both awesome. LA Sweets often participates in local charity events. - JES

We now have a cover feature in each of the upcoming issues. Our first explores the world of “Sushi in SoMi.” And in this issue, you’ll find a new take on the popular “in & around” column with expanded coverage in four pages. “What’s New” is combined with the “Changes” feature which we began last year. This twopage feature is always a “go-to” to learn what’s happening, and the directory is now all together in one section of the magazine.

I would be remiss in not commending the growth of the recently reinvigorated Red/Sunset Merchants Association. With them and Chamber South, many worthwhile projects for our area can be achieved. As a founding sponsor of Art Night, I’m delighted to invite you to “Get Your Art On” and come on out for the new “SoMi Artwalk.” And speaking of art, the annual Chamber South Art Festival will be held the first weekend of November. I’d also like to invite you to the annual City-wide Eat Together to be held at the Bethel-Gibson Community Center on November 14. See page 12 for details. That’s about it from me. It’s your turn to BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION. Let us know what’s your take on our changes and what’s happening in SoMi Town. And, if you’ve got a creative streak in you, submit your entry for the SoMi Town Tag Line Contest. See page 13 for details. Enjoy Volume V, Number 1. And also visit us on line – www.somimag.com, where we’ll be working on an expanded on-line version of SoMi Mag.

you say it. we print it.

This is the first time I picked up a copy of the magazine. I like the Giancarlo fashion article. I’d also like to see an article on Gardening and Landscaping.

Ginette L. Miami

Can anything be done about all the cars that block the entrance to Sunset Place? It’s downright dangerous crossing the street. I drop my son and his friends away from that chaos. Octavio P. Pinecrest

I love this magazine, it helps others to know what to do and enjoy here in South Miami, and especially what’s new going on in the area.

All the best! Carmen G. South Miami

If you’d like to receive Volume V issues via USPS, please send your check or money order in amount of $15.00 made payable to TCMC, Inc. and mail to Postal Box 431597, Miami, FL 33243-1597. Your copy will be sent to you via First Class Mail.

If you want to submit your own comments, email speakup@somimag.com

Our other regular features include Culture, the Chef’s Table, and a wine feature. The TC Profile has been changed up to an interview format with three business leaders. With our commitment to a sustainable environment, the magazine will run a regular feature written in concert with a local LEED certified architect.

LA SWEETS The Shops at Sunset Place

You may also visit us online at

somimag.com

what’s on the cover SUSHI IN SOMI // all of south miami’s rawest

restaurants revealed

PHOTOGRAPHY BY //

Bernadeta Szanto-Ozimec

what’s inside

SHOP fall in love with fall accessories:

DIRECTORY

NEWS

EAT

PLAY

SHOP

tips for a greener south miami

LIVE

LIVE sustainable somi : eco-friendly

fashion tips by Giancarlo

PLAY fast track to fitness : 5 steps to help you get fit this fall

EAT sushi in somi : raw reviews

NEWS what’s new : stay on top of all of the local changes

DIRECTORY go•to•guide : everything local

PUBLISHED BY // TCMC, Inc. ( Town Center Marketing Concepts) JOHN EDWARD SMITH COMMUNICATIONS

Published 6 times annually, Distributed to 20,000 businesses & residents, and in guest rooms/services at area hotels. PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR // John Edward Smith VOLUME V CREATIVE CONSULTANTS // Reactive Designs ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR // Mia Almaguer PRODUCTION / ART DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR // José Roque COPY EDITOR // Gregory Guess FASHION CONTRIBUTING EDITOR // Juan Carlos Martell HOME & DESIGN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR // Sebastian Eilert, AIA, LEED AP CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & ARTICLE RESEARCH // Mia Almaguer, Scott Baumann, Sebastian Eilert, Giancarlo, Donna Shelley, Cera Soli & Christian Torok For more information, please contact the Publisher: TCMC, Inc. Postal Box 431597 • Miami, FL 33243-1597 T 305-665-2838 • Email: jes_somi@att.net ©2009 John Edward Smith Communications/ TCMC, Inc (Town Center Marketing Concepts)

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: Carlos Hernandez

somi mag

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a new LOOK

A NEW LOOK FOR SOMI MAG HOW A NEW BRAND WAS BORN In the last issue the importance of branding was discussed, and as I am sure that you have noticed, the magazine that you are currently holding has, in fact, been rebranded. This issue is the start of a fifth volume for this publication, which has grown over the years not just in page numbers and readership but in value to the community. It is precisely because of this that John Edward Smith decided to give the magazine a new look.

a new AREA Over the past five years the area has expanded, the patrons of our local businesses have changed, and new businesses, restaurants, and even buildings are going up around us. Though it will always retain its “small town” charm, South Miami is becoming a more updated small city, and the new logo (presented below on the right) represents a fresh new era in South Miami’s history.

a new LOGO The first major change would of course be the name. SOMImag, is a shorter, more easily identifiable name and it’s compactness opens the door for a variety of applications. Some area businesses (old and new) have been using this short and sweet term for the South Miami Town Center area, and we definitely hope it catches on. Looking to the future, a more modern and flexible logo was created. It consists mostly of type with an integrated speech bubble icon that represents the voice of the community for which the magazine has always been a vehicle. The font, a streamlined sans serif, has a more modern feel and is carried throughout the publication in body copy, headlines, and captions.

The magazine itself, after receiving a new logo, needed a new look to go with it. A huge effort has been made, to not just design the magazine so that it is aesthetically pleasing, but we have tried to make the magazine a more functional piece as well. More definition between the regualr features as well as sub-branding throughout will help regular readers identify different sections not just by content, but visually. Consistency in font usage and photo treatments will lead to a cleaner magazine-reading experience. The magazine, now officially broken up into six sections including a directory at the end, is color coded for page-flipping convenience. And the folios (the little bar on the top of most pages) include issue information, the website, and page numbers that are placed in little color boxes so that you can easily identify what section of the magazine you are looking at.

In the first four years of the magazine, the mast head was comprised of the name “South Miami Town Center” and a rendering of the imported Italian lamps which are on Dorn (SW 59) Avenue. The lamps were donated by the Red/Sunset Merchants Association as their contribution to the new “Hometown Plan” as approved by the City Commission. The name South Miami Town Center was recommended by the Mayor’s Marketing Task Force in the mid-1990s to designate the unique “hometown” environment in our downtown.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY : Karen McDonald

a final DECISION The finalized product that you see on the cover was not a conclusion that was arrived at easily. The initial sheet of concepts, pictured on the presentation board to the right had over fifteen designs and variations from which to choose. During the course of the month of July, the logo concepts were vetted among over forty community business leaders to ensure that the final choice would be representative of and well-received by town center locals. Having so many people involved in the process certainly created a buzz in town and even more excitement at the unveiling on August 6. And now the new look arrives with the start of Volume V.

* vip logo unveiling reception august 6 CHAMPAGNE & SUSHI was served up for the guests attending the logo unveiling. For more pictures go online to www.somimag.com

Mia Almaguer presenting the sheet of logo comps and three suggested covers at the “unveiling” party hosted at Splitsville Luxury Lanes.

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now online at somimag.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN

Ashley was joined by Alessandro at the Fountainbleu for the Marlin Mermaid Calendar unveiling at LIV.

Renato Brito and staff from LVS Salon were at LIV to cheer on one of their own, Natalie Pena, one of the Marlins Mermaids. SoMi Town’s own Nikki Beachhouse was selected to be the exclusive boutique for the swimwear segment of the show. Nicole Mattioli of Nikki’s Beachhouse is shown receiving a bouquet from the event organizers.

* around town with ashley and alessandro SOMI GOES TO SOBE Friends of Nikki’s Beachouse Boutique, staff from LVS Salon, and many others watched the Marlins Mermaids strut their stuff at the Fontainbleau’s Club LIV for the 2010 Calendar Fashion Show.

doggy TOWN Doggy Studio & Boutique teamed up with Town Kitchen & Bar and Wassup Miami to present the first “Doggy Town” event in late August. Over thirty pet lovers came to party with their dogs at this inaugural event. Stay tuned for a monthly “Doggy Town” happening in SoMi.

a day in THE LIFE A goliath of a man, at 6‚31/2”, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce President Mark Trowbridge visited one of his chamber members for his “work days.” As “trainer-fora-day” Mark put Fitness Together (real- life) trainer Angelo Bosques through some tough workouts.

Allison Falella, Mercy Fabregas, and Denise Mati with Luis Colon came all the way from their princesses,Tiffany, Bella and Zoey. Florida City with Tyra.

The Chamber Educational Outreach (CEO) Work Day spotlights various local small businesses, when the Chamber President, spends time working side-by-side with the leaders and employees of the organization to learn more about their business.

Patty Wiggins and Veronica Serrano with Toby & Niki.

Fitness Together’s Scott Baumann and Mark Trowbridge.

John Janette, his kids, Livie (3), CJ (6), Joanes (9) and Luna here with Cyril Kadouch of Wassup Miami and Capone to the left and Shelly Guberek & Jimmy Lebron with Zeke & Maui to the right.

Mark with “the real trainer” Angelo.

Mark seen barking like a drill sergeant.

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people in somi HEARING FROM

ARMANDO BARDISA, Pharm. D. //

VIGI LOVATON, boutique owner //

JOHN JANETTE, managing partner//

South Miami Pharmacy

VIGI Miami

Town Kitchen & Bar

In this issue, we gave three successful SoMi business owners, John Janette of Town Kitchen & Bar, Armando Bardisa of South Miami Pharmacy and Vigi Lovaton of Vigi Boutique, three questions about their views on South Miami. Here is what they had to say. The first question was “why did you choose South Miami as the place for your business?” John, who lives in the area, chose South Miami because he likes “the demographic and felt there was a need for a casual but upscale local option.” For Armando, who grew up in the city, the appeal was the “central location” and the need he saw for a “local pharmacy to serve the numerous medical businesses in the area.” Vigi started her business in the Bakery Center, where she felt like “she was part of a big family, and fell in love with the people and the area.” When the Bakery Center closed down, she looked for a spot nearby. All three mentioned the great sense of community and the individualistic and entrepreneurial character of local businesses and residents. “Where do you see South Miami going?” John feels that “many more restaurants and bars are coming, and where restaurants go, retail follows.” He feels the area has many years of aggressive growth ahead.

Armando thinks our city “will continue to be a role model for other cities for years to come.” Vigi adds, that the city “has exploded into the hippest and trendiest, and the only one left with true local character.” She hopes businesses will remain local and family owned, and believes that this is the best path for SoMi’s continued success. Lastly, “What do you want people to know about you and your business?” John responded unequivocally that “I love what I do,” and that he so believes in South Miami’s potential that he is soon opening a second venue. Armando says “what I enjoy most is the close personal relationships I’ve developed with people, which is the reason I decided to open a local pharmacy in the first place.” “I’m here to stay,” says Vigi, “I’ve dressed customers for their first date with their current husbands and now I dress their children for their prom and beyond. I want to create lifelong relationships with my customers,” and adds, “me and my staff are very positive!” As you walk around the Town Center, make sure to stop by and meet these great local business owners and enjoy what their businesses have to offer! CHRISTIAN TOROK

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SUSTAINABLE SOMI AN ENVIRO-SERIES FULL OF EARTH-FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS

online RESOURCES

Going “green” to reduce greenhouse gases, shrink the size of our carbon footprint and wean ourselves off an insatiable thirst for petroleum involves a wide variety of potential solutions.

www.floridaplants.com

In some cases, the remedies are complicated and costly; in others, they are straight-forward and downright economical. We would like to share some of those environmentally-responsible practices with you through a series of columns over the next year. We hope to inspire you to adopt new habits and make informed choices for a healthier planet. And we want to hear from you! Tell us your success stories and share your greening tips with us and the readers of SoMi Mag. The choices you make regarding what you plant in your backyard or on your balcony can have a profound impact on the environment. That is especially true in our neck of the woods where certain exotic plants, freed from the ravages of frost, went from being pretty to being a pest. In some cases these species were brought here decades ago to dress-up the native scrub, sand and palmetto landscape. The list of invasive-exotic flora is quite extensive in Florida. In SoMi, we fight two of the State’s most noxious plants: rosary pea vine (Abrus precatorius), with enough poison in one pea to kill a human and Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius), a particularly adaptive member of the sumac family that thrives in all ecosystems from hammock to mangrove swamp. Selecting appropriate landscape materials can save water, reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers, and make gardening a whole lot easier for you. Not bad when you think of it—cheaper, less work, and good for the environment.

DONNA SHELLEY

Warning! You

www.ifas.ufl.edu This is the University of Florida’s site with particulars about plants that help you make an informed decision before venturing out to your local plant nursery.

www.floridanativeplants.com Florida Native Plants descriptions and prices

www.floridagardener.com Listing and links for many Florida Native Plant providers

www.afnn.org Association of Florida Native Nurseries

www.fnps.org The Florida Native Plant Society

www.nsis.org Your Florida Backyard with a lot of information about all aspects of gardening in Florida, including how to attract butterflies.

www.compostinfor.com Florida’s Online Composting Center

www.miamidade.gov/conservation/ rain_barrel.asp Rain barrel workshop information

www.davesgarden.com Make your own rain barrel, with pictures to help you along.

BACKGROUND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: Julia Starr ILLUSTRATION BY: Ron Shelley

To start “Going Native,” we recommend some websites that are packed with great information about native, non-native and invasive plant life, xeriscaping, integrated pest management, composting, capturing rain water for irrigation, and more.

Is chock full of information. could spend hours here.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN

South Miami Drug-Free Coaltion director, Margaret Stotham, addresses the City Commission to outline the coalition‚s mission, goals and efforts in meeting the needs of our youth and their families.

Coalition Chairman Javier Hernandez-Litchl, CEO of South Miami Hospital leads the coalition members in a strategic planning session held at Chamber South.

* south miami drug free coalition THE SOUTH MIAMI DRUG-FREE COALITION was established in 2003 by Informed Families and a group of community-minded representatives from business, government, health care, education and the faith community. www.informedfamilies.org

hardaway UP Tim Hardaway, famed guard for the Miami Heat was recognized by the Mayor and City Commission at a September Commission Meeting for his work in the community. Through The Tim Hardaway Foundation, programs are developed to support community-based organizations that address the health, educational and socioeconomic needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities. After the presentation, the Foundation hosted a recepMayor Horace Feliu reads the City’s proclamation tion at Dan Marino‚s. in the presence of the members of Commission and guests in the chamber gallery.

pink PARTY On Friday, September 18, the Coconut Grove Bank at its South Miami location hosted a reception to kick-off the state-wide Florida Breast Cancer Foundation.

Robert H. Coords, President & C.E.O with Guests networking during the splendid Branch VP Rachel Hickey, Dr. Robert P. reception. derHagaopian and Sharon Hickey.

upcoming EVENTS The Shops at Sunset Place Building Safer Communities Saturday, October 3rd 2p-5p

Chamber South Art Festival on Sunset Drive November 7 & 8, 10a-5p

SoMi Art Walk Friday, October 9, 6p-9p in the Town Center

4th Annual Cite-wide Eat Together Bethel-Gibson Community Center, Sunday, November 14, 9a-3p

Battle of the Bands at The Irish Times Sunday, October 18, 2p-10p National Red Ribbon Campaign October 23-31 throughout the community Mickey Gonzalez, General Manager of Dan Marino’s, Foundation volunteers Christine Dorico, Maribal Gonzalez, Ivette Sotomayor, Vaness Brito, and foundation manager Paul LaRoche.

Safe Street Halloween on Sunset Drive Saturday, October 31, 4p-7p

27th Annual Santa’s Parade of the Elves on Sunset Drive Sunday, December 6, 2p-4p

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ART LOVERS UNITE Coming to Sunset Drive on the first weekend of November is the 38th annual Chamber South Art Festival. And this year, the organizers are presenting two new features: an emerging artist section for first time exhibitors and students, and a partnership with the Red Sunset Merchants Association to bring you “Savor SoMi’s Flavors”. This inaugural SoMi tasting event will feature the culinary arts from South Miami’s local restaurants. The festival will be held on the weekend of November 7 & 8 from 10a – 5p. Nestled between wide sidewalks, cafés, quaint shops and lush landscaping, the festival will feature more than 150 artist booths from around the country. Mediums such as painting, watercolor, glass, jewelry, metal work, digital art, mixed media, drawing, graphics, photography, clay, sculpture, and wood will be represented. International food vendors featuring a wide array of cuisine will be available in addition to musical entertainment and special features for children. The South Miami Art Festival is well known in the region as one of the best fine art shows in the country. The event is free for attendees. Even though parking is available around the art festival, event organizers suggest taking the Metrorail to the South Miami station, located directly across the street from the event. Parking is also available at the Metrorail station. The festival’s presenting sponsor is The First National Bank of South Miami, with support from the Miami-Dade County Cultural Affairs Department, Tourist Development Council and the City of South Miami. For more information, visit www.chambersouth.com or call 305-661-1621.

9 T OC

M P 9

4th Annual City-Wide

EAT

TOGETHER FUN

FEAST &

FLEAMARKET Sunday November 14

9 a-3p

Bethel-Gibson

Community Center

5800 SW 66 AVE For information call:

305.302.1026

TAGLINE CONTEST Often times a tag line is a crucial part of a branding campaign. SOMImag would like to give YOU the opportunity to showcase your creative skills and come up with a new tag line for “SoMi Town.”

WIN A $500 SOMI SPREE

The winning slogan will be chosen on January 15th and its creator will receive a SOMI spree worth $500* of goods and services from our town center businesses!

To submit your tagline: Send an email to jes_somi@att.net SUBJECT: TAGLINE *Details of the breakdown TBD

SHOP

somi mag

october// november

FASHION HINTS BY GIANCARLO

his “FALL/WINTER 2009” season the love for layering won’t just be limited to apparel, with runways adorned of rich colors and textures, mix-and-match separates and revered stylized new looks for the basic grays, blacks and browns. Jewelry designers proliferated the stacking trend via piled on bangles and loose, bib-style necklaces crafted from multiple strands of beads and gems. As the temperature dips the incline is on the fashion trend, BIG scarves and hats are the seasons must haves; including the massive proportions of the multi purpose scarf-cape/ hat by Gianfranco Ferre, “Gloves adorned with metal fittings, buckles, and rivets also help stylize the season’s trend.” Whether on one arm or two, bangles, chain link bracelets and cuffs sat right atop fitted long sleeved shirts and peeked out of abbreviated blouses and coat sleeves, including one of the seasons major must have is the “Little Leather Jacket.” Fendi paired their new looks with luxuriously tailored silhouettes, with oxidized bangles piled nearly up to the elbows,

* places to shop

while at Proenza Schouler models wore individual single sleek cuffs on either wrists. The sense of “A’La Organica” still fills the season with natural earth tones paired with vibrant blues, yellows, and plum colors. Oversized hoop earrings give additional face to your fall attire, but most jewelryminded designers doted on the wrists, neck, and fingers.

“

This fall season’s statement necklaces are looser and less armourlike than previous incarnations, but they remain BIG and BOLD, holding theirowninbright yellow gold or tough gunmetal - grey silver against fall’s weighty fabrics, including leather, fur and velvet.

Cocktail rings especially oversized metal versions are still going strong. As for motifs, whether accessorizing ‘40s style attire or ‘80s influenced apparel, both of which dominated runways, designers showed an inclination for the organic, sculptural forms as well as structured, geometric designs. Coming in to one of my favorite times of the year, we must look at our personal style as a contemporary work of art, using this thought as a way to capitalize our ego. In a city where the Caribbean continuously caresses our everyday style and way of life we can only help but watch the flow of each individuals look and enjoy the wears that make us invincible this season.

”

Collar – circling versions of vintage necklaces, “A’ La Mad Men”, were among the most prominent of the new takes seen at the Marc Jacobs, Marni, and Oscar de la Renta shows.

BEVERLEE KAGAN ANTIQUE JEWELERY // What’s old is NEW again...go there to find your vintage flair! GIANCARLO DESIGN // Stay on top of the current fashions with Giancarlo himself! SOUTH MIAMI JEWELERS // Fine jewelry for every occasion and every season! XOTICA DESIGNS // Check out their new fall fashion designs!

5829 SW 73rd Street #9 South Miami (305) 668-4440 www.shoptdr.com Open 7 days

now online at somimag.com

PLAY

somi mag Representing Chamber South are the Sunshine State Barbershop Quartet with their rendition of “Little White Church in the Valley.

State Representative Julio Robaina, Chamber South President Mary Scott Russell and Maria Korge taking in the contest performances. Miami Beach Chamber representative Les Depta with “Heartbreak Hotel.”

october// november

pizza LOTTERY E.J. Martinez of Power Pizza has 52 pizzas waiting for you. Win free pizza for a year. Five entries will be selected in a random drawing on November 1. All you have to do is text “powerpizza” (one word) to the phone number 20133. When you enter the contest you’ll also be eligible to receive special game day and other offers as a Power Pizza Mobile Member. So text away! (And no, you don’t have to take all 52 at one time – unless you’re having one big party planned.) .

* talent abounds with chamber south SEVEN CHAMBERS joined together for a Hard Rock Talent Contest hosted at Bayside on August 25. Each chamber was represented by two performers. Organizations represented were: Aventura Marketing Council, Chamber South, the Coconut Grove Chamber, Coral Gables Chamber, the Greater Miami Visitors and Convention Bureau, the Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber and the Miami Beach Chamber.

mad HATTERS RA sushi celebrated their one year anniversary with a whimsical mad hatters party. Guests enjoyed hookah, sushi, and a lot of laughs as waiters and patrons alike were decked out in pretty spectacular headwear.

Cindy Eckardt of the Wellness Center, George & Marty Pardo, and Lillian Reeves.

Benihana Pres. Juan Garcia & wife Marta, with Cindy Eckardt and Scott Kilpatrick.

stand UP Pop rock met up with hip-hop in a sell-out event showcasing emerging musical talent.

You go girl! Ana Marenco smoking a double hookah.

New GM Timm Timbrook, wearing a red crown rules over the tea-party with other mad-hatters.

Over six hundred packed the Shops at Sunset Place to hear two up-and-coming music stars in the Stand Up Concert on Saturday September 12. 19-year-old pop-rock singer/ songwriter, Caro Fernandez, and 17-year-old hip hop artist/songwriter Alex Fiorentino, delivered with powerhouse performances.

PLAY

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CULTURE

< GET YOUR ART ON as SoMi starts

its second season of South Miami Art Night, now affectionately known as “SoMi Artwalk.” Held on the 2nd Friday (6p-9p) of the month from October through May, the sidewalks and participating Host Venues showcase local artists while offering guests some light refreshments. A number of the area eateries are Restaurant Host Sponsors and will offer an Art Night Special. Our Art Night Ambassadors will be conspicuous in the town center as you are greeted with a SoMi Artwalk map. GET YOUR ART ON t-shirts will be available at the headquarters location in the courtyard of the First National Bank of South Miami. SoMi Artwalk is a featured event of the Red/Sunset Merchants Association and produced by TCMC, Inc., (Town Center Marketing Concepts). UPCOMING DATES: October 9, November 13, December 11. www.southmiamiartnight.com

schedule, call 305.667.4911 or email to: epiphanyconcerts@gmail.com.

THE WIRTZ GALLERY is located in the lobby of the First National Bank of South Miami (and another first, as it is the first bank in the United States to have a gallery within its banking facility). Each month throughout the year the gallery hosts different artists representing all mediums. As a Host Sponsor of the “SoMi Artwalk” the bank sponsors an artist reception on the second Friday of the month. For October The Wirtz Gallery will exhibit the works of Maria Teresa Azucena, who showcased during last season’s South Miami Art Night. For the month of November the works of Billy Duffo will be showcased.

KIDS ART CONTEST National Fastframe ^ 2009 Art Contest for Kids. The owners at the South Miami locale “think it’s a fun project that will draw the interest of the local community.” The national first place winner will receive $250 in art supplies and an additional $250 in art supplies for their school. Entries must be presented at the store between September 15th and November 14th. For additional information please contact FastFrame South Miami located at 5900 SW 73rd St., #104. Tel 305.668.5718. E: FastFrameSMiami@bellsouth.net

For information on these artists please consult their respective websites: mta@ mariateresaazucena.com and www.duffo.com.

Renowned Photographer JULIA VIZCARRA showcased at the 2nd Annual Mexican Festival presented by the Mexican Cultural Center. Located at 5975 Sunset Dr., the cultural center offers programs, exhibits and special events showcasing the richness and diversity of the Mexican culture. Established in 2002, the center is now under the direction of Arturo Morell. Hours: Monday-Friday 9a-2p, 3p-6p. Admission is without charge. Pictures Lto R: Artist/Photographer Julia Vizcarra with Cónsul General Juan Miguel Gutiérrez Tinoco. The Cónsul General (r), with Nicolas & Mariana Loria and Richard Wilke.

La Galleria del Teatro 1560 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.666.2078 Mexican Cultural Ctr. 5975 Sunset Drive 305.268.4910 Sunset Gallery & Framing 5864 Sunset Drive 305.667.0925

MUSIC AT EPIPHANY presents Anders Paulsson, saxophone and Andrew Canning, organ, perform in a varied and unique concert on Friday evening, November 6th, 8p. And put on your calendar Wednesday, December 16, 7:30p for the annual Christmas Festival with Choirs & Orchestra. The one-hour concerts are free and open to the public. The Church of the Epiphany is located at 8235 SW 57 Avenue (Red Road). For information and complete 2009-10

AREA GALLERIES

The Wirtz Gallery First National Bank of South Miami 5750 Sunset Drive 305.662.5414

// Take in some LIVE THEATER at the Area Stage Company, located in the Riviera Plaza. 1560 S. Dixie Highway, tel. 305.666.2078

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somi mag

october// november

FAST TRACK TO FITNESS If you are looking to get into shape this fall, follow these five simple steps to get on the Fast Track to Fitness.

BE SURE TO INCLUDE STRENGTH TRAINING.

RESISTANCE/

This is the most important aspect of your fitness training and should be the cornerstone of your program. Functional strength is more important to your day-to-day life and your ability to perform daily tasks and prevent injury than any other aspect of fitness. Resistance training will increase your metabolism, strengthen your muscles, increase your bone density to prevent osteoporosis, help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and even make you look better naked! Pretty powerful stuff.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST. Studies show those who skip breakfast will consume more calories throughout the day than the breakfast eaters. Eating a good breakfast will jumpstart your metabolism for the day and set you up for a high energy and fat-burning day.

BUILD A FAST, FAT BURNING METABOLISM. You can do this by eating a small meal or snack every 3 or 4 hours. Going too long without food puts your body into “starvation mode” where it will then store fat when you finally do eat. Eating small meals frequently convinces your body that it is ok to burn fat for fuel and not to store it, and that is a good thing!

MAKE THE COMMITMENT AND STICK TO IT. Exercise works but you have to stick with it long enough to see the results. Many people bail out just when the results were about to reveal themselves. You may not see results right away but don’t give up. Give yourself a good three months to make some lasting changes and see the results. Make yourself accountable to your commitment. Write it down, hire a trainer, or tell your friends or your spouse about your goals and that you are committing to three months of exercise. It really helps to feel that you have support and that you are not alone.

WORK HARDER, NOT LONGER. Forget spending an hour or more on the treadmill or the elliptical. Recent studies show that interval training, alternating short intense bursts of exercise with lower intensity periods, is most effective for conditioning the heart and lungs and for burning calories.

So don’t wait for the perfect time, get started today. Find an exercise program that suits you, commit to it for at least 3 months, have some fun and get ready to feel better than you have in years! Nothing looks or feels better than a big dose of self confidence!

SCOTT BAUMANN OPERATING PARTNER FITNESS TOGETHER WWW.FITNESSTOGETHERMIAMI.COM

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somi mag

The DAVID LLANES JAZZ TRIO performs on Thursdays at Trattoria Sole.

* around town with ashley and friends

october// november

THANK YOU to The Dressing Room for providing the clothes for our models: Ashley is wearing aeautiful silk aqua dress adorned with lace detail and a black patent leather waist belt paired with a small croc leather purse on a gold chain. Jackie is wearing a floral bow dress paired with some black suede heels and one of our one of a kind vintage purses. Sarah is in a gorgeous chiffon blouse by one of TDR’s exclusive lines worn with brown leggings and chunky tan suede heels. Ashley’s styling was provided by Isabella Salon & Spa.

A PERFECT LADIES’ NIGHT OUT Ashley, a South Miami native and Baptist Health Lab Technologist is joined for a night out with Sarah, a Special Needs Teacher and Jackie, a Café Manager. The ladies enjoyed taking in the Jazz sounds of the David Llanes Trio at the newly renovated Trattoria Sole Bar area, before heading over to Khoury’s Mediterranean Restaurant for dinner.

SOMI LADIES’ NIGHTS Gastropub at Jake’s Splitsville Martini Bar Bougainvillea’s

opening RECEPTIONS

Dan Marino’s Sunset Tavern Town Kitchen & Bar

he lives in a COOL DE SAC

Saturday, September 12 was a busy day in town for three of the area’s new businesses; Finis Terrae, Oracle, and Xotica were all celebrating!

Oracle’s Doctor en Metafisica, Ciro Catasus, demonstrates the use of a sage wand.

Ana Story, Xotica’s Catalina Andrews and Beatrice Formoso.

A stunning Raven Queipo at Oracle.

Mayor Horace Feliu with Finis Terrae owners Gabriella and Simone.

Carolina Tamayo age 6, and sister Sophie (2) engage Sponge Bob.

Nickelodeon’s bikini bottom buddy Sponge Bob Square Pants made his debut at Cool-de-Sac on Saturday, September 12. Hundreds of kids and parents flocked there to have their photos taken with Sponge Bob. Karla Buena, with Juan Pablo, Santiago, Pablo, Ricardo, Fernanda and Marcelo.

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now online at somimag.com

chef’s TABLE CHEF steven lopez RESTAURANT dan marino’s BIO Born and raised in Miami, FL

SOMI kitchens

ter Chefs Recipes from our Town Cen

in 1978, from Cuban heritage. Started working in kitchens by the age of 17, and steadily moved up the ranks working in hotels and restaurants all over Miami. At the age of 26 I became Executive Chef and have worked in all aspects of cooking from hospitals to grand banquets and fine dinning up until now I’ve been able to experience being a restaurant manager as well.

ER SOY VINAIGRETTE

/ GING SESAME TUNA SALAD w IONS

DIRECT S DRESSING INGREDIENT sor, blend all the ingredients 1) In a blender or food proces n ger Gin sh Fre oz. 6 rything is finely minced, the except for the oil. When eve d) ppe it cho If y . ghl lsify rou emu to and d oil ele me (pe etable oil and sesa chopped) slowly add the veg y . ghl use re (rou on befo l oni wel red ke d. sha me 1 ry, just doesn’t emulsify then don’t wor sley ds Par d see ppe me Cho sesa sh Fre with oz. loin 2 tuna 2) Sprinkle an 8oz piece of 6 oz. Rice Wine Vinegar et, heat a small amount of skill hot a In te). whi (black and Oil ble eta Veg s cup 1.5 point, then cook the tuna for vegetable oil just to smoke l. Oil e am Ses oz. 2 for rare to mid rare). Let coo 30 seconds on each side ( with ce slaw Sau cole Soy dry s e cup som 2 ether 3) In a salad bowl, toss tog salt 2 teaspoons coarse kosher peas and bean sprouts, with w sno s, per pep pepper julienne red ck r bla und gro on spo tea 1/4 . Toss all together with you your favorite Asian noodles ing fry for with oil ble nish gar eta veg ter, rt plat qua a 1 e in Ginger Soy Dressing. Plac the rim if desired. Slice your on abi was and s, slice cucumber e the slices around the salad. tuna into 1/4inch slices and plac Serve and enjoy!

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somi mag

october// november

SoMi Town is a true Sushi restaurant showcase! What makes the area stand out is not the mere profusion of restaurants, but the variety of experiences they offer. Each one is very different from the next, sometimes in truly unexpected ways.

Let’s explore. Sushi as we know it today originates in Edo harbor (currently Tokyo) in the early 1800’s. Its history, however, spans a couple of thousand years. It starts in China, where people began to ferment rice and fish together in order to preserve the fish without the aid of refrigeration, later eating the fish and discarding the rice. This technique was adopted in Japan several hundred years later and was slowly adapted so that the fermentation was sped up by using cooked rice dowsed in sake or vinegar, also making the rice palatable to eat along with the fish. This style of sushi still exists and is considered a delicacy, but is not the Edomae (Edo style) sushi that we all know and love. The Edo style was devised as a snack to be had during the workday and consists of rice mixed with vinegar along with raw fish and sometimes seaweed (nori). Sushi is the name for the seasoned rice that accompanies the sashimi, or raw fish fillets, in various combinations. Popular styles include nigiri-zushi, consisting of a small finger of rice topped with fish, maki-zushi, commonly referred to as sushi rolls, and chirashi-zushi, where the fish is arranged over a bed of sushi rice. Not unlike other cuisines, sushi in the US has changed considerably from its traditional Japanese formulation, although it is interesting to note that there are numerous American-style sushi restaurants springing up in Japan, where the locals get to try the ‘foreign’ evolution of their traditional cuisine. In Japan, sushi is elevated in many cases to the level of an art form where everything from the

cutting technique to the ingredients used follow traditional formulas, and where the consumer is expected to understand and respect a specific etiquette. By contrast, sushi is also sold at train stations and most curiously at restaurants specializing in Mawaru-zushi, or ‘rotating sushi’, where pieces of nigiri roll along a conveyor belt built onto the bar for the customer to pick up as it passes by. Here in the United States sushi tends to be bigger and includes new ingredients alongside the more traditional ones. The California roll is credited by many as the first American invention, and as we’ll see below, it is just the very small tip of a huge iceberg. The sushi scene in SoMi is a cross-section of many of these trends. It is interesting to note that the majority of the sushi spots in our town are not Japanese restaurants in the traditional sense, but instead buoy their sushi selections with dishes derived from other Asian cultures. The styles of sushi also vary. Although most restaurants serve the ‘basic’ and most recognizable types, many sport their own creative dishes and sushi that may be topped with items that are neither raw nor fish! A common trend, however, is that most restaurants aim to make sushi available as an everyday alternative, making their selection accessible not only in terms of choices but of cost as well. Perhaps the most interesting (and representative) contrast in the SoMi sushi scene occurs on 73rd street, where RA Sushi and Miyako Japanese Restaurant face off like two very different samurai in a duel at high noon. RA Sushi is a huge and glamorous space where everything is ‘more fun in the RA.’ The décor is impressive, a huge bar and a separate sushi bar are the centerpieces of a trippy bamboo and lantern strewn landscape. As you enter the door, a set of Japanese swords sits behind the host’s stand, and the music is loud, upbeat and fun. At night, RA comes alive, the outdoor seating area abuzz with very fashionable sushi lovers out to have a great time. RA is a ‘rock and roll sushi bar’ and its menu definitely

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: Hank Shiffman

BY CHRISTIAN TOROK

now online at somimag.com reflects that edginess. While offering most common rolls, RA has an impressive list of signature rolls with names like the Gojira (Godzilla) Roll, the Crazy Monkey Roll, and its most popular, the extravagant and impressive Viva Las Vegas roll, a crab and cream cheese roll lightly battered tempura-style and topped with spicy tuna, crab mix and sliced lotus root, drizzled with eel sauce and spinach tempura flakes! The menu also offers a number of original appetizers as well as some traditional favorites with a twist. For a drink, the Kirin Sake Bomber, a shot of sake dropped into a beer, is a must-try. Miyako, by contrast, is perhaps the most traditional of the Japanese restaurants in the Town Center. Its whole menu is Japanese-inspired, and from the outside it looks like a spot one might find in a sidestreet in a major Japanese city. Decorated in traditional fashion with a maneki neko (good-luck cat) at the door, the restaurant is quaint and intimate. On offer are many dishes often found in restaurants in Japan, such as teriyaki, katsu (breaded meats), yasai itame (sautéed vegetables), noodles and gohanmono (rice bowls with various toppings). The sushi offers the traditional as well as many of the new favorites, such as the Miami Roll, consisting of fried snapper, lettuce, roe and spicy mayo, side-by-side with the classic tekka, or tuna, roll. Many combination dinners are also available, which are satisfying and easy on the pocket. Just around the corner is another South Miami sushi landmark, Sushi Maki on Sunset, a family run operation that is about to celebrate its tenth anniversary. Sushi Maki is reminiscent of neighborhood sushi bars in other major cities, and it’s cozy, inviting and understatedly hip. Sushi Maki succeeds in its goal of being a convenient, neighborhood sushi bar, friendly to kids and dogs, an all-around great meeting place for locals. This eatery has a very well defined identity, a certain playful, ‘tongue-in-cheek-ness’ about its approach to sushi and dining that adds to its relaxed and welcoming ambiance. Sushi Maki is very proud of the quality of the products it serves, providing customers with only the freshest natural ingredients – a commitment underscored by its partnership with Whole Foods Market. Another aspect of its neighborhood-friendly approach is the affordability of the menu. While all the offerings are competitively priced, the ‘Maki Madness’ $12.95 three-course meal (offered at dinner time on certain days) is a bargain that will leave you very satisfied. Their most popular roll, the Dragon Roll, consists of a shrimp tempura roll with scallions and masago topped with sliced avocado, spicy mayo, eel sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Also on Sunset, one of the most interesting sushi places in SoMi is not really a ‘sushi place’ at all. Splitsville in Sunset Place offers a variety of delectable dishes along with the nicest bowling lanes in the region! Splitsville was conceived as a restaurant with bowling lanes and not the other way around, and their food reflects this commitment. Their innovative sushi offerings, full of flavor and unexpected combinations, are carefully designed and beautifully presented. Some of their most popular rolls include the Mucho Grande, the Beauty and the Beast and the ‘Bubba’. Topping the list is the Crab Rangoon, a tempura roll with crab, cream cheese, water chestnuts and chives served with a spicy sweet Thai chili sauce. But perhaps their most surprising roll is the Surf and Turf, a tempura shrimp, goat cheese and scallion roll covered with thin slices of steak! Down the street, on the corner with US 1 is Origin, a pan-Asian bistro offering a new take on many traditional Asian classics, including sushi. The décor

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at Origin is truly distinctive, a fusion of all the different cuisines reflected on the menu, and the ambiance is mellow and refined. The restaurant aims to be a neighborhood eatery, a place where locals come often, and their success is based on the quality of the ingredients and the sheer variety and affordability of the menu. On offer are lighter, more health-conscious takes on many Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Japanese classics. Their sushi menu consists of many WHERE TO EAT traditional items, but is full of original creations. Popular rolls here include the Key Biscayne Roll, the Heat Roll, and the Akashi eponymous Origin Roll, made with lobster 5830 S. Dixie Hwy. tail tempura, asparagus, masago, cream 305.665.6261 cheese and spicy mayo layered with avocado. Another great item from the sushi bar are Kyojin Japanese the great Asian-style ceviches, like the tuna, Buffet seasoned with mango and a chili-lime vinaigrette. 6212 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.722.1888 Just South of here on US1 is Kyojin Japanese Buffet. As you walk into Kyojin you are greeted Miyako Japanese by a water fountain and lots of Japanese Restaurant statuettes, wood block prints and other 5844 SW 73 Street traditional decorations. The restaurant is 305.663.7166 spacious, and the buffet area is impressive. On its 120ft. long buffet bar, Kyojin offers Origin Asian Bistro an all-you-can-eat experience that not only 5920 S. Dixie Hwy. includes over sixty varieties of sushi, but 305.668.8205 more than forty hot selections, a Hibachi grill section, Korean barbeque, a seafood bar and RA Sushi a dessert bar! All these items are included 5829 SW 73 Street in one price, and 3 to 10 year-olds eat for 305.341.0092 less. From Friday thru Sunday, the restaurant also offers all-you-can-eat raw Splitsville Luxury oysters and crab legs, when Lanes seasonally available. Kyojin’s 5701 Sunset Drive appeal lies in the sheer quantity of 305.665.5263 items on offer and the liveliness of the ambiance – there is a constant Sushi Maki buzz and energy as people peruse 5812 Sunset Drive the bar and head back to their 305.667.7677 tables with heaping plates of goodies. It would be impossible Sushi Siam to try everything here in one 1549 Sunset Drive sitting, or even in four or five. Their 305.668.5683 selections are continually updated, often based on the advice of their staff and chefs who are constantly on the lookout for new dish ideas. Other great sushi spots in SoMi include Akashi and Sushi Siam. Akashi is a traditional Japanese restaurant known for the quality of its ingredients and the beautiful presentation of its dishes. They include a number of signature rolls as well as great traditional fare. Sushi Siam as the name implies includes both sushi and Thai specialties. This is one of the most elegantly decorated of the SoMi spots and offers great, generous sushi portions as well as excellent curry dishes, among other selections. So, if you are in the mood for sushi, South Miami has it all. If you are looking for a fun, party atmosphere, a quiet night with friends, or you feel like exploring sushi along with other Asian cuisines, there is a restaurant here for you. And regardless of the restaurants’ styles, quality and value are offered at all of these outstanding SoMi spots. Kampai!

october// november

now online at somimag.com

FALLING FOR BURGUNDY The summer days are waning, and fall is upon us. Although here in SoMi we’ll still have our share of summery days, it’s a good time to start thinking of good wines to stock up on now that holidays are just around the corner. Fall and winter are great times for bigger reds and fuller whites, and undoubtedly these are made in many regions of the world. But Burgundy, with its native Pinot Noir grape, produces wines with aromas and textures that remind us of the fall, the dry leaves, the slightly chilly cloudless blue sky… So here we’ll explore some Burgundy alternatives for the fall, and some domestic wines that posses similar characteristics. The region of Burgundy is a landlocked wine-producing region in the heart of France. It spans several appellations, most of which are very well known and produce great quality wines. Burgundy produces wines from three primary grapes: Pinot Noir and Gamay for reds, and Chardonnay for whites. This is the home of the Pinot Noir grape and there area where most people agree it reaches its highest expression. The best Pinot vineyards, located in a narrow region known as the Côte de Nuits, are produced in tiny parcels of land with legendary names like Romanée-Conti and Le Chambertin. These wines are silky, profound and aromatic, with hints of earth and red fruits. Chardonnay also originates here, and is produced in a variety of styles, reaching its highest expression in Chablis, where the cool climate produces ageable Chardonnays with a great, steely backbone, and in the Côte D’Or, where the wines are fuller and show some of the smokier, oaky and rich notes most people have come to associate with the grape. The Gamay grape is relegated to Burgundy’s southernmost region of Beaujolais. Although not considered a quality grape like Pinot Noir, it is very popular for easy-drinking refreshing reds, and is best known as the grape of Beaujolais Noveau, the young wine released right after the harvest on the third week of November. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are household names in the US, and are produced in most regions, however the best come from cooler climate areas (for the most part) in Northern and Central California and in Oregon. In California look for wines from the cool Carneros region of Napa, or from the cooler areas of Sonoma, like the Russian River. In Central California look for wines from Santa Barbara’s cooler climate appellations. Oregon’s best area for Pinot is the Willamette Valley. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay tend to be great wines for the holidays because of their versatility. Domestic wines are usually fuller-bodied and fruitier than their French counterparts. Which is better is a matter of taste, and the type of food and the crowd you are entertaining are important factors to consider when making your selection. Pinot pairs well with a variety of dishes because it isn’t quite as heavy as other wines, so it can complement both salmon and beef for example, and it is less tannic, making it more palatable for less seasoned red wine drinkers. Chardonnay is great with white meat dishes, and the bolder ones can even stand up to ham and sometimes beef. Beaujolais, the Burgundian product of the Gamay grape, is light and fruity and a favorite with Thanksgiving turkey because of its affinity for white meats and cranberry sauce – and Beaujolais Noveau, an inexpensive and easy drinking red is released the week before Thanksgiving, making it a timely addition to the festivities.

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NEWS

somi mag

october// november

what’s NEW in somi town Ja-

nineHensley Hensley (center) (center) with Yenia Janine Yenia Sainz Sainz (L) (L)and andstore manager Jasmin Lopez (R) store manager Jasmin Lopez (R).

Opening in early June in the Riviera Plaza, Opening in early June in the Riviera Plaza, owners Craig Hensley havehave ownersJanine Janine& & Craig Hensley expanded on their fashion concept which waswas expanded on their fashion concept which established in the Pinecrest areaarea six six years established in the Pinecrest years ago.ago. Named ALEREN for their two two daughters, Named ALEREN for their daughters, Alexandra (12)(12) andand Lauren (9), (9), theythey havehave Alexandra Lauren experienced tremendous growth in Pinecrest, experienced tremendous growth in Pinecrest, tripling in size in two short years. TheThe SoMi tripling in size in two short years. SoMi Town store picks up where Pinecrest leaves Town store picks up where Pinecrest leaves off,off, moving intointo contemporary youthful (age(age moving contemporary youthful 15+)15+) andand women’s fashions. WithWith a degree in in women’s fashions. a degree Marketing & Merchandising, hands-on owner Marketing & Merchandising, hands-on owner Janine hashas transformed the the 2,200 sq sq ft ft Janine transformed 2,200 location intointo a very comfortable place to to location a very comfortable place shop. searched for for twotwo years for for a a shop.They They searched years location andand settled on the Riviera location for for location settled on the Riviera location its easy parking access andand US1 US1 visibility. TheThe its easy parking access visibility. Hensley’s areare veryvery involved withwith youth andand Hensley’s involved youth community programs throughout thethe area. community programs throughout area.

Meet Baruch Pletner, the new owner of THE GASTROPUB AT JAKE’S. Baruch purchased the business from Pat Gleber (of Tobacco Road fame) on July 28 and has been very busy revamping the menu and service at this popular Town Center location. With a new Executive Chef (Yolanda Honeycutt from the Ritz-Carlton in Naples) and Sous Chef, they have introduced a $10 business lunch during the weekdays, and are planning to launch a weekend brunch/lunch starting mid-October, featuring a “Rijs Taffel” – a rice table buffet with offerings such as goat stew, wild boar and more. Their dinner menu will reflect seasonal dishes, with the menu printed daily. Also, Baruch claims to have “the best desserts in the Coral Gables, South Miami area.”

ALSO OPENING SOON IN SOMI: Chef Emilio di Carlo of Café Rigazzi is opening CASA TOSCANA on the east side of Sunset Drive at the former location of Jianella.

FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES is finishing up their renovations to the former Ming Garden on US1 north of the Riviera Plaza. BHOOM SHANTI on Sunset Drive is a new furniture store which moved into the space formerly occupied by Who’s Kickin.

PIZZA RUSTICA is busy renovating the old KFC location at Red Road and US1. // 6901 SW 57 Avenue | 305.662.8632

Expect great BBQ, when the owners of Town Kitchen & Bar launch their “SMOKE T” restaurant at the JJ’s location on US1.

// 1560 South DixieDixie Hwy.Hwy. | 305.663.2199 // 1560 South | 305.663.2199

Jose & Alicia Zayas and son Javier have moved into the corner retail location (Sacino’s) on Red & Sunset on September 9th. Popularly known in the Hialeah area since 1968, ZAYAS continues the tradition of excellent customer service and a recognized brand with their men’s and tuxedo store. // 6939 Red Road | 305.557.5731

Bailing out from a deflated real estate market and twenty years in the mortgage brokerage business, partners Ydania Dienstage and Ciro Catasus are pursuing their vision and dream at ORACLE, which opened in mid-August. Located on Sunset Drive on the east side of Red Road (“Sunset East”), they have created a “spiritual home” with unique and unusual paintings, sculpture, jewelry and furnishings. // 1559-1/2 Sunset Drive | 305.661.3781

Moving into a spacious street level space at the Santona Office Building in early October, owner Ana Furniss is expanding her business to this new second location. // 1430 Sunset Drive | 305.284.0535

PIKKOLO MONDO, located at the Best Miami Hotel (here in South Miami) where Bernie’s Steakhouse was situated, plans an opening soon. They’ll be serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner. NUOVA DONNA SALON, a new salon (yes another!) is announcing an “Opening Soon” at their US1 location (near McDonald’s) at 62 Avenue.

now online at somimag.com

what’s NEW (continued)

Coming into the Soli Organic space on Dorn Avenue in October is YOGEN FRÜZ, a franchise owned by partners Roberto Puzo and Malek Torbay of Venezuela.

To be included, please send your info to whatsnew@somimag.com and let our readers know all about it.

When Cavanaugh’s Mens Shoe Fitters closed this summer after over thirty years on Sunset Drive, employee Jose Ambers was the last to leave. Having worked at Cavanaugh’s for twelve years, Jose was a ready-to-go employee for Ed Boas at LANES. Married with four children, Jose was pleased to land this new position with Lanes. Who knows, maybe shoes will follow. (When Cavanaugh’s first opened in South Miami, David Silver’s dad, occupied a portion of the Lane’s retail space.)

The beer will flow on Sunset Drive when CERVEZAS opens in November at the former locaton of Elegante Kitchen & Bar. Located across from the Irish Times, where Guiness is popularly served, Cervezas will offer 200 brands.

Extensive renovations are underway at the former Rey’s Cleaners site for the new SEGAFREDO SOMI CAFÉ. Watch for an opening late this year. The SoMi Café will be offering up breakfast, lunch, dinner and an after-hours menu.

moving in & MOVING ON In from San Diego is RA SUSHI’s new GM, Timm Timbrook. (No spelling error here, please.) The 29 year old native of Virginia has lived in the SoCal area for the past six years, calling San Diego his “adopted home.” In July, Timm was offered the position in South Miami, and he said: “Let’s do it!” Timm lives close by and walks or rides his bike into town. Way to go Timm! He loves the heat and the beach, and enjoys taking in the town. A new “adopted home” we hope.

NEWS

And moving to London are Patricia Sousa and Rodrigo Medeiros of the INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF CONSCIOUSNESS (IAC), a volunteer-run, non-profit research and education organization centered on consciousness. For fifteen years the center has been located at 7800 Red Road. After a decade of leadership, Patricia and Rodrigo are passing the torch to Patricia Ribeiro, a Brazilian instructor with over a decade of experience. IAC has trained thousands on astral projection and perceiving and controlling their subtle energy fields for

energy self-defense, psychical development, and consciousness evolution. Coming to the United States from Santa Clara, Cuba with a New York Yankees visa, William Plaza, an employee of VILAR CIGARS, is now moving on to the University of Las Palmas in Spain to pursue a medical degree with specialization in Sports Medicine or Orthopedics. He played in the minor leagues for three years before coming to Vilar. He has been very active with the Little League since coming to SoMi.

THE SOUTH MIAMI DRUG-FREE COALITION recognized SMPD detective Henry Gusman for his leadership in the coalition. Recently installed Chair of the Coalition, Javier Hernandez-Lichtl and Coalition Director Margaret Sotham present detective Gusman with a token of appreciation for his service.

now online at somimag.com SW 66 Street

South Miami Community Center

Red Road Commons

RED ROAD

Enjoy our fine boutiques and great dining. SOMI TOWN welcomes you.

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Centralized Valet Parking

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SW 59 Ave.

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FASHION

SW 58 Ave.

SW 62 AVENUE

SW 59 Ct.

SW 62 PL.

SW 71 Street

SW 59 PL.

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SW 58 Ct.

Larkin Hospital

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SW 57 Ct.

Best Miami Hotel

SW 56 Ave.

Valencia

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SW 57 AVENUE

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Visitors to our area will find convenient on-street parking, Centralized Valet Parking on Sunset Drive and a centrally located Municipal Garage. Public transit is directly accessible at the South Miami Metrorail Station. The best way to enjoy our “hometown” district is to walk our tree-lined streets or park your bicycle at one of the many

Full selection of men’s business, casual and formal wear.

Lucy Agnes

5738 Sunset Drive | 305.667.2585

Mermaids Boutique Zayas

“South Miami Town Center” defines our singularly unique shopping and dining district on the east side of US#1, with our civic area, Metro Transit, Hospital Zone, Public Library and hotel on the west side of US#1. The entire area is comprised of the City of South Miami and our bordering City of Coral Gables and MiamiDade County east of Red Road. This is the recommended designation by the Mayor’s Marketing Task Force (1996).

7308 S.W. 57 Ave | 305.667.5175

Nikki’s Beachhouse Boutique 30

6939 Red Road | 305.662.5757

5746 Sunset Drive | 305.669.4551

Ladies At Ease

Men & Women Edward Beiner Eyewear

5817 Sunset Drive | 305.661.1205 Designer eyewear to help create the perfect impression. www.edwardbeiner.com

5844 Sunset Drive | 305.662.1022

Bella Donna Collection

Designer swimwear, activewear & accessories for all women in a uniquely inviting atmosphere.

Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm

5825 Sunset Drive | 305.663.2175

Blush Boutique

Natasha Leratti

6001 S.W. 70 Street | 305.968.1700

5784 Sunset Drive | 305.663.7337

Peace - Love -World

5828 Sunset Drive | 305.661.6620

Pat’s Bridals Capretto Shoes

5822 Sunset Drive | 305.661.7767 An old-fashioned full service shoe salon.

Men

5700 Sunset Drive | 305.667.3101

Sirvanti

5740 Sunset Drive | 305.665.7353

Jenna White

6108 So. Dixie Hwy | 305.661.6889

Praia Beach Boutique

Brazilian, European and American cut bikinis, cover-ups, hats and bags collection of fine semi-precious stone jewelry.

6001 S.W. 70 Street #C-103 305.666.9570 30

5829 Sunset Drive | 305.663.6110

Basil’s Tailor & Men’s Shop 10

Lanes

7301 S.W. 57 Court | 305.669.5940

Kristine Michael 7271 S.W. 57 Ave | 305.665.7217

Simons + Green

5842 Sunset Drive | 305.667.1692

DIRECTORY SoMi So U

somi mag 25

7388 SW 57 Ave | 305.740.8008

october// november

Bri Bri

Cervezas

Affordably priced chic fashions.

Jacadi

5872 Sunset Drive | 305.663.1407

Little Feet and more... Studio LX

5814 Sunset Drive | 305.666.0748

RESTAURANTS & NIGHT LIFE

5904 So. Dixie Hwy | 305.669.2580

5731 S.W. 73 Street | 305.662.1842

The Dressing Room

5829 SW 73 St. | Ste 9 305.668.4440

Dan Marino’s

Fitting South Miami kids since 1981.

5701 Sunset Drive | 305.661.6763

Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm

Inventive recipes, a cosmopolitan decor, and a seasoned staff ensure a first-class dinning experience. Fine foods, wines & spirits. Open for Lunch & Dinner 7 days.

7241 S.W. 57 Court | 305.668.9563

Akashi

5830 So. Dixie Hwy | 305.665.6261

Pili Carerra

7301 S.W. 57 Court | 305.665.6588

Alta Cocina

5837 Sunset Drive | 305.662.7435

The Red Apple

We are a chic, trendy and unique boutique that won’t hurt your pocket book! | Open 7 days. www.shoptdr.com

7210 Red Road | 305.666.9655

Petit Amie 25

Crepe Cuisine

A defining innovative fashion resource. www.grouplx.com

The Backroom at Vigi’s

5833 Sunset Drive Opening Soon.

7320 S.W. 57 Avenue | 305.668.8210

7283 Red Road | 305.669.6899 Gifts and clothing for boys and girls, newborn to pre-teen. Toys & accessories. Personalized gift wrapping. | Open 7 days.

A stylish flare to traditonal home -style favorities. www.altacocinarestaurant.com

Blu Pizzeria

Deli Lane & Sunset Tavern 26 7230 S.W. 59 Ave | 305.665.0606 A South Miami landmark, open 7 days for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Late night menu at Sunset Tavern. Tavern open to 3am | Sun-Thurs; 5am www.delilane.com

7201 S.W. 59 Ave | 305.666.9285

VIGI Miami

7230-A SW 57 Ave | 305.661.7419 Beautiful clothing and accessories for hip moms and daughters who want the latest looks, the best quality and friendly service. | Open: Mon - Sat www.vigimiami.com

Beverlee Kagan Antique Jewelry

5855 Sunset Drive | 786.268.0531

Just LX

Thousands of unique items from Mom’s jewelry box in all price ranges. Repairs, too. www.kaganjewelry.com

5826 Sunset Drive | 305.666.9831 Diva emporium.

Five Golden Rings

Café Pastis

7310 Red Road | 305.665.3322

5800 Sunset Drive | 305.667.5556

Young Adults

Fox’s Sherron Inn

Zagat Highlights: “Formidable!” “Fantasic” maison with “Stand-out” Provencal dishes, Bouillabaisse, Mussels …so close to Marseille. Open for Lunch & Dinner (Closed Sundays) Reservations Suggested. www.cafepastis.com

5794 Sunset Drive | 305.661.6121 Original designs to accessorize today’s fashion.

5881 Sunset Drive | 305.662.1755 A chic children’s boutique offering hip, unique apparel, accessories, and gifts for newborns to 6 year- olds.

South Miami Jewelers

7209 SW 57 Court | 305.663.5537 Handcrafted & Custom designs

Kyojin Japanese Buffet

6212 So. Dixie Hwy | 305.772.1888

Le Crepe BISTRO

7340 Red Road | 305.665.8778

Marhaba

5701 Sunset Drive | 305.740.5880 28

5829 S.W. 73 Street | 305.665.8499

Xotica Designs

Miami’s famed Cuban cuisine family restaurant. Live entertainment Friday & Saturday nights. Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch & dinner.

Cavas Wine Cafe

www.beninibug.com

6901 S.W. 57 Avenue | 305.662.8632

5829 S.W. 73 Street | 305.661.2426

7214 S.W. 57 Avenue | 305.667.1898 Meeting all your jewelry and watch needs since 1983.

Open Mon-Sat, 10am - 5pm. Closed Sundays.

Jake’s

Carrabba’s

5859 S.W. 73 Street | 305.662.5656

Benini Bug

Great neighborhood pub with great food. www.irishtimesmiami.com

The finest in Mediterranean & Lebanese Cuisine. Open 7 Days for lunch & dinner.

Casa Larios

Children

5850 Sunset Drive | 305.667.4114

5887 S.W. 73 Street | 305.720.4224

Irish Times

Khoury’s

5840 Sunset Drive | 305.667.3208

Giancarlo Designs

6030 So. Dixie Hwy. | 305.666.2230

5831 Sunset Drive | 305.663.1937

Elements of Time American Apparel

Traditional Italian pizza and more. Open 7 days.

Jewelry

Chef Emilio’s Casa Toscana 37 1569 Sunset Drive (East of Red Road) | Opening Soon.

Authentic Mediterranean Lebanese kitchen. Open for Lunch & Dinner.