Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Bourbon Steak Miami Spice Menu

And the first Miami Spice menu has crossed me desk and once again Bourbon Steak is spicing things up with a fantastic menu. Chef Gabe always takes Miami Spice seriously and you should pay them a visit.


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19999 W Country Club Dr
Aventura, FL 33180

Lunch @ The Cypress Room BOOM!!!

                           



Good no great news food fans.  The Cypress Room is opening for lunch starting July 15.  This is  prefect for business and leisure lunchers in the 305.  In keeping with the spirit of their first class dinner service, lunch will feature a three course tasting menu for $36.00 with a wine pairing option for $57.00.

The lunch menu features several hits from the dinner menu including the fantastic Cypress Burger which is one of the Best Burgers in town.  I also highly recommend the ribeye cap and the royal red shrimp but you really can't go wrong with any selection.  You can read my initial recap here and see where they rank overall in town here.

The Miami food scene just got better.  Enjoy.


LINK TO LUNCH MENU

Lunch is Monday to Friday from noon - 2:30.











3620 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33137



Monday, June 24, 2013

Hazed & Infused Tea Dinner @ The Federal 6.26.13

       



 

HAZED & INFUSED TEA DINNER WITH JOJO TEA WED. JUNE 26th



HAZED & INFUSED TEA DINNER WITH JOJO TEA WED. JUNE 26th
The Federal is pleased to announce a joint collaboration between themselves and JoJo Teas, Miami’s first homegrown artisan tea blenders and distributors.

We will be hosting a multi-course dinner thoroughly “Hazed & Infused” with a selection of JoJo Teas that will be paired with the teas on Wednesday June 26th.

Diners will have the chance to experience Chef Cesar Zapata push the Federal envelope as he infuses each course with one of Jojo Tea’s unique selections.

This will be a unique culinary experience for foodies and chefs alike as they will have the chance to taste how teas can be used in a variety of preparations as well as experience them on their own thus tasting the intense care and focus JoJo and Tico have dedicated to their new venture. It is a true pleasure to support and partner with such like-minded individuals.

As an added bonus, Jojo and Tico will be on-hand pouring and discussing the properties of each of their teas in the event inquiring minds had any questions. JoJo Tea was founded by Mike “Jojo” Ortiz and Tico Aran just last year. The young duo strives to provide Miami a natural, smooth, consistent tea experience. Their teas are purchased from only the most established farms around the world and their strict, methodical importing discipline ensures each customer a consistency of tea flavors with every cup brewed.

The price per person for this dinner is $65 per person, including the tea pairing. Guests will have an optional wine pairing available to them for $35 per person.



 

Reserve now!

TICKETS

War of the Wines @ Steak 954 6.27.13















Friday, June 21, 2013

Craft Beer Dinner @ Biscayne Tavern 6.25.13







Guess who's back? Back again.... Jeffrey Chodorow is back in Miami with a new venture near the Triple A.  Biscayne Tavern is hosting their first craft beer dinner next week and it sounds like a good deal.




Wednesday, June 19, 2013

First Date(s) Pirolo's Panino (South Beach)





Chef Mike Pirolo's announcement about the opening of a new sandwich shop inside Macchialina made my toes tingle.  Miami and South Beach in particular have been devoid of a legitimate spot to grab a kick ass sandwich since Johnny V's Kitchen closed down several years ago.  Yes, I'm a La Sandwicherie fan too but Pirolo's is serving big boy sandwiches prepared by an outstanding chef.   


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Pirolo's Panino is technically being called a pop-up but I anticipate this becoming a mainstay given the quality of the product and the enthusiastic response by locals.

If you haven't been yet, I highly recommend paying Mike a visit.  He put a lot of passion and love into these sandwiches and it shows.  They are open Tuesday-Saturday from noon - three.  They also provide delivery from 1st to 41st street.

Below are some of the sandwiches I annihilated.


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The Banh Mi (lano) features awesome house made testa, mortadella and Asian pickles.



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Easily the best lobster roll I've had in Miami. It is loaded with fresh Maine lobster, a slight amount of mayo and served on a buttered roll.  The housemade potato chips are a nice touch.


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A big, sloppy, messy and tasty as hell beauty! The roast pork is prepared Philly style with garlic, broccoli raab, fontina and Calabrese chiles.


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I love Mike's meatballs and I love his sauce.  Thus, I knew his meatball parm was going to be a huge hit and it's on the money.

On a side note, the bread they are using is perfect.  It has a nice crispy exterior along with a chewy interior. 

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House made "pickles."

Other choices include The Godfather, sopressata, caipiccolo, picked eggplant and shaved onions.  Clipse, roast beef, tomato, horseradish creme fraiche and crispy shallots.  Jive Turkey, house roasted turkey breast, lettuce, tomato and dijonaise.



Address: 820 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:(305) 534-2124

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Meat Market's Summer Series Mondavi Dinner 6.25.13



I went to the first dinner in their Summer Series and it was outstanding.  You can see my recap here.   Chef Brasel's menu for the second dinner sounds even better. 






Meat Market CELEBRATES 100th anniversary of ROBERT MONDAVI’s BIRTH
Summer Series Continues June 25, 2013 with Four-Course Wine Dinner
Meat Market and chef/co-owner Sean Brasel, second dinner in their Summer Series will take place on Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.  Teaming up with Robert Mondavi Winery in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the legendary winemaker and innovator’s birth, guests can expect Brasel’s modern cuisine paired with some of Mondavi’s specialty and reserve wines.   

The four-course dinner menu and correlating wines (plus reception), priced at $95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity follows:

Selection of Passed Hors d’oeuvres

Local fresh tile fish ceviche spoons
Smoked salmon roulades filled with Boursin cheese
Seared lamb tenderloin on crostini with olive jam
Mexican spice crusted tuna medallions topped with cured lemon and truffle horseradish
Ruffino Prosecco

First Course
Loin of rabbit wrapped in pecan wood-smoked bacon, summer peach puree,
fiddlehead ferns and rapini sauté
2011 Fume Blanc Reserve, To Kalon

Second Course
Great Plains buffalo tartar, black truffle caviar grilled garlic toast and
deconstructed “devil” egg, yolk gel
2010 Pinot Noir Reserve, Carneros

Third Course
Snake River Farms wood-grilled Wagyu flank steak, sliced and served over
veal belly, pancetta, chorizo and Shimeji mushroom ragout, spicy Maryland Blue Crab salad
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Oakville

Fourth Course
Molten white chocolate lava cake with trio of ice creams –
roasted strawberry, dulce de leche and chocolate chunk
2011 Moscato d’Oro, Stag’s Leap District

Robert Mondavi established his namesake winery in 1966 in order to fulfill a lifelong dream: challenging himself and his fellow winemakers to elevate California wine, and Napa Valley wine in particular, to create outstanding vintages that would stand in the company of the world’s finest. His wines would reflect their origins and offer the fullest expression of his Napa Valley vineyards, including the jewel of the valley, To Kalon. Nearly 50 years later, his dream has been more than realized, with Robert Mondavi Winery esteemed by critics and wine lovers worldwide.

Meat Market is located at 915 Lincoln Road on South Beach. 

 Reservations for the Robert Mondavi wine dinner are limited and can be made by calling (305) 532-0088www.meatmarketmiami.com   

 Follow Meat Market:  www.Facebook.com/MeatMarketMiami and www.Twitter.com/MeatMarketMiami

Friday, June 14, 2013

Miami's Best Restaurants- "Tiers of Excellence"


TV SOUTH PARK



A lot of eating and thinking went into this updated ranking.  As a result, this is the most accurate ranking to date.  Once again I am challenging myself and limiting the rankings to the Top Twenty and ties.

It should be noted that while food is the primary factor in my formula, value, service, ambiance and wine/beverage programs also play an important role. 

These are THE TWENTY restaurants in Miami that you want to pay a visit to this summer and spend your hard earned money.  

Eat well and eat often!!


TIER ONE- The best of the best.  Guaranteed to have a knockout meal every visit plus great service and an overall outstanding experience.  These are special places.



                                                   






Naoe- (Miami) Simply the best in every way and probably deserves their own tier. Wendy will blow you away with her hospitality and service and Kevin will knock your socks off with mind blowing sushi. His bento box isn't too shabby either. Must do place for any and all occasions. A+++



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The Cypress Room - (Miami Design District) This new addition from James Beard Award winning chef, Michael Schwartz oozes sophistication and class in every way just like me. Close attention has been paid to every detail from the table settings, to the decor, to the service, to the cocktails to the wine list and most importantly to the food. Miami is no longer lacking a true upscale, fine dining spot. Kudos to chef Schwartz and his team for delivering a gem to Miami.



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Dinner with Jose.. Everything on the menu. Nuts!!
                 

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Jose's Taco-Caviar, Jamon Iberico


The Bazaar - (South Beach) Chef Jose Andres delivered a creative and fun dining experience to Miami.  They curated a unique, interesting and delicious menu that makes every visit special. This is a well run ship and a must do for locals and tourists alike. 



TIER ONE POINT FIVE- Da Ali G TIER- RESPECT!!

                                              ali-g-respect


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Chicken Liver Crostini


Michael's Genuine Food & Drink(Miami Design District) Chef Schwartz and team haven't skipped a beat at local favorite MGFD. The food remains up there with the best in town and is easily the best spot for lunch and brunch. Make sure you pay attention to their daily specials because there are usually a gem or two in the mix. Also make sure to take advantage of the great wine list curated by one of the best sommeliers in town, Eric Larkee. Cocktails here are underrated and a fantastic deal during happy hour.

 

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Michelle Bernstein & her Common Threads Kids

Michy's(Miami Upper Eastside) Michelle Bernstein remains one of the most talented and influential chefs in town. Her food is always consistently outstanding. All hits and never a miss.



TIER TWO- This is an outstanding tier of restaurants putting out great food on a daily basis and providing an overall great dining experience.  On the cusp of tier one status.



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Duck Fat Fries


Bourbon Steak- (Aventura)  Continues to be one of my favorite spots in town. Chef Gabe Fenton is as good as it gets and is well deserving of a James Beard Award nomination.  Hello! Anyone home at the Beard House or at Mina PR?  Gabe's specials always shine and everything is always executed perfectly.  The service, cocktails and wine list are on par.    



                                    Makoto 


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Ohhhhh


Makoto- (Bal Harbour) Makoto may be the most underrated spots by the masses in Miami. Chef Makoto's sushi rivals Naoe and his regular menu excels too. This is a special sushi spot and a must do for all sushi fans. 



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White Bolognese stuffed agnolotti, shaved truffle
                               

The Dutch(South Beach) Executive Chef Conor Hanlon is a superstar on the rise. He has the great fortune to be learning from one of the best chefs in the country, Andrew Carmellini. The food that comes out of this kitchen is up there with the best in town. Make sure you save room for dessert because pastry chef Josh Gripper is one of the best in town.


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Black Spaghetti- sea urchin, lobster & scallions

 
Macchialina (South Beach) This is the best Italian place in Miami bar none. Chef Mike Pirolo is crushing it on several levels. His housemade pastas are delicious and his sauce is addictive. His daily specials including his risotto should not be overlooked. A cool neighborhood vibe make this one of the best spots on South Beach and Miami too.make sure you pay a visit during lunch hours for his recently opened Pirolo's Panino.  Best sandwiches in town and it's not even close.


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db Bistro Moderne- (Miami) Daniel Boulud. Enough said. In all seriousness, I have never had a bad meal at a Boulud run restaurant and db Bistro Moderne is no exception. The charcuterie is unbelievably good and the regular menu always delivers. Look out for their special wine and cocktail dinners as they offer good value and great meals. 




neMesis Urban Bistro- (Miami) Micah Micah I love me some Micah.  Chef Micah and neMesis is a diamond in the rough outskirts of downtown Miami. It's one of my favorite spots in town because I know Micah will always be behind the stove turning out passionate and inspired plates. A true gem in every way.



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Restaurant Michael Schwartz- (South Beach) The unbeatable charm of the patio of The Raleigh Hotel, the legendary Martini Bar and star chef Michael Schwartz. The trifecta of Miami dining! This hybrid of Michael's Genuine Food & Drink and The Cypress Room is distinct enough to demand your attention and business. Special place, special chef. Go!



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Edge Steak & Bar- (Miami) I am a huge fan of Chef Brooks and probably rated Edge too low here.  Part of the problem for me is the downtown hotel location. That being said, I have attended several outstanding dinners here and chef Brooks is one of the best in town.  No brainer if you live or are staying in downtown Miami.



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J&G Grill - (Bal Harbour) Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten did his homework when he assembled his Miami crew. The talented team is lead by Jordi Valles, Richard Gras and Antonio "nitro coco" Bachour. This is modern fine dining at its best. Make the effort to go and make sure you save plenty of room for the mind blowing desserts of Antonio. Hey James Beard, hello!!!!


TIER TWO POINT FIVE- The Best of Breed Tier. Doing one thing and kicking ass at it.


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Lucali -(South Beach) LOVE Lucali.  This Brooklyn import is serving the best pizza in town and it's not even close.  The pies are perfect and feature a ridiculously addictive sauce.  Go! and get a calzone while you're at it.  Thank me later.


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Momi Ramen(Miami) I never understood the fascination with ramen. That was until I stepped foot into Momi. Great ramen noodles, great broth paired with delicious combinations of ingredients.  

** Joe's Stone Crab qualifies in season and Shake Shake would too but for fast food status. My Ceviche (South Beach) is just too small to rank but I highly recommend their octopus burrito.

*** Pirolo's Panino recently opened during lunch at Macchialina.  GO!


TIER THREEThis tier is loaded with spots I wouldn't hesitate to recommend. Some of the best in town.


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Hamachi Kama


Yakko-San (North Miami Beach) Easily my most frequented spot over the past few years. Yes, I miss the vibe of the original location but the food has not changed. The specials board is always the way to go plus sprinkle in some staples along with a new dish or two. I could rattle off a recommended dish list but that would take too long. That being said, if you see the hamachi kama on the specials board jump on it. Email me if you are going and need some tips. It should be noted that traditional sushi is not their strong suit but I do like many of their non sushi raw offerings.





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Khong River House- (South Beach) I've had some terrific dishes from Chef Bee and the Khong kitchen. The menu contains several unique offerings that you will be hard pressed to find around town.


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Wood grilled Deckle, truffle ricotta potato ravioli, gin fennel cream spinach & fried chili onion rings


Meat Market - (South Beach) Meat Market makes a return to the rankings. They were a mainstay for years but dropped off following a bad experience including a long wait, poor service and a bad steak. But I recently returned and easily recalled why I always thought fondly of them. The setting, models and energetic vibe alone makes them tier worthy.   




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Tongue and Cheek- (South Beach) Triple D's B's, burger, brunch & bourbon. And a great chef! I've been several times now but still need to go back and have a proper dinner to accurately rank them. Nevertheless, chef DeRosa has created an interesting and diverse menu with something for everyone. This one should climb the ranks in the upcoming months.







The JDonn Triple Egg- Ikura, Uni & Quail


Sushi Deli- (North Bay Village) This tiny hole in the wall serves some killer sushi at great prices.  It's located inside a Japanese market and closes early so plan accordingly.  




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Artichoke Heart Bruschetta-farm poached egg, shaved truffles, creamy parmigiano fonduta


MC Kitchen - (Miami Design District) I've had some very nice meals at MC Kitchen. Chef Marino's dishes are all well balanced and prepared with finesse.


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Fire roasted oysters, softito butter,chorizo, queso manchego

The River Oyster Bar(Miami) Oysters, oysters and more great oysters. Half price during happy hour too!


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Stone Crab Crostini with Avocado

Oak Tavern - (Miami Design District) Chef Bracha (River Oyster) has another hit on his hands with his new neighborhood joint in the Design District. The menu is large, interesting and always executed properly.



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Scallop with brussels sprouts, corn, asparagus &cherry gastrique

Blue Collar(Miami Upper Eastside) Chef Danny Serfer is the comfort king with a little bling bling. Danny spent several years in the Chef Allen kitchen and knows his way around seafood and fine dining. But at Blue Collar he is killing it with straight forward "blue collar" fare that is straight up delicious. Don't miss the cheeseburger, Corben, Big Ragout or his fried chicken and jambalaya on the late night menu. His scallops rock too! 

To Do list- Catch, Zuma, The Setai, Haven, Tosca & Copperbox.  Plus long overdue returns to Mandolin, Scarpetta, Azul and Toscano Divino.


Neighborhood Scoreboard 

South Beach- 8
Miami-  6
Design District- 4
Upper Eastside- 2
Bal Harbour- 2
Aventura-1
North Bay Village-1
North Miami Beach-1

Chef's Scoreboard

Schwartz - 3
Bracha -    2