Shireen’s Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

Shireen's Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

Shireen's Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

Shireen's Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

Shireen's Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

Shireen's Spotlight: Oltremare inside Amara Cay Resort

What:

Oltremare, 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036

Why:

Oltremare Ristorante inside Amara Cay Resort is my last food blog of the year and man, what a way to go out. The Italian eatery has a warm atmosphere with a sophisticated flair, but it’s the food that’s truly fabulous. What’s more, it’s made with passion and pure love by Executive Chef Dario Olivera.

After shooting my “Dress to Impress” New Year’s Eve fashion blog with “Hot Miami Styles” at the resort, I was hungry and thirsty! That’s not always a good thing when I do Spotlight. I always tell my crew: “It’s about tasting not eating,” but not to worry because on Chef Dario’s watch NO ONE leaves hungry.

I started my evening with three yummy drinks, “The Blood-Lime” which is their signature cocktail, was definitely my favorite (made with deep eddy ruby red, fever tree elderflower tonic, Campari and key lime.) The “Zugroni” & “Naughty and Spice” were both sweet enough to put me in a jolly holiday mood.

My first appetizer, “Sea Salt Roasted Beets” (made with greek yogurt, honey cured pistachio and blood orange syrup) was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The “Grilled Octopus,” plated in a yummy winter squash puree came with a side of crispy chips; adding extra texture. My favorite app (and it was hard to choose) was the gorgeous Antipasto plate. Hmmm… I’m a sucker for finger food.

The main courses were to die for, usually I take a bite, pass the plate and remain noncommittal, but I wouldn’t let our server take ANY of the dishes away. 😁 The “Lasagnette” (made with wild mushrooms) was dreamy and the “Gnocchi” with rabbit was extra sumptuous.

My absolute favorites: the “Orecchiette” (scallops, rock shrimp in a parmesan tomato broth) and “Caramelle” (with duck confit, Swiss chard, cranberries and reggiano). My tastebuds are forever spoiled. The chef wanted us to have more than carbs, so, he sent out one of his favorite plates “Grilled Cobia” (made with melted leeks). This is perfect for the non-pasta lover.

The “Tiramisu” and “Zeppoli” (deep-fried dough balls served with a Nutella dip) were beyond decadent and the perfect sweet treats to end our feast. The friendly staff, chic atmosphere and incredible pasta definitely make “Oltremare” one of my new favorite things.

Where:

Oltremare is located inside the Amara Cay Resort. The entire property is gorgeous and snuggled into a little slice of heaven in The Florida Keys. More specifically, Islamorada.

When:

Dinner 5pm-10pm. Reservations are suggested: 305-664-0073

www.amaracayresort.com/oltremare-ristorante
Instagram: @Oltremare_Ristorante

Count your nights by stars, not shadows; count your life with smiles, not tearsItalian Proverb
Photographer: James Woodley
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: Hot Miami Styles
(shop the look www.HotMiamiStyles.com)
Thursday, December 24, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Barton G. The Restaurant

Barton G

Barton G

Barton G

Barton G

What:

Barton G. 1427 West Ave. Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

Why:

At Barton G. not only is “presentation everything,” it’s also about how you feel and at this South Beach eatery, they want you to feel great and have fun. It’s been awhile since I’ve been to this Miami staple, but when I went last week (to check-out some of their new menu items,) I remembered why I loved the place so much.

People were smiling, laughing and thoroughly enjoying their food experience and that’s not really something I’ve seen since starting my food blog. Not only is the food cool and creative; it’s culinary innovation at it’s finest without being pretentious. I felt excited and awe-inspired as soon as I walked through the front door.

From the “Below Zero Nitro-Bar” I started with two amazing drinks: “Buddhalicious” (made with pear infused vodka, lychee and cranberry, served with a nitrogenized pop of pear vodka) and “Cooper’s Margarita” (don julio silver tequila, triple sec, sweet and sour with a grand marnier popsicle.) Holy fabulousness! Both drinks were wonderfully whimsical and packed an extra punch with their liquor-infused popsicles.

For starters I tried three of Barton G’s new appetizers: “Holy Smokes Popcorn,” “The Devil’s Eggs” and “Champagne Oysters & Caviar.” The popcorn (which comes in a Holy Smokes case) is perfect for the truffle lover in your life; made with bacon, white truffle, black truffle, grated parmesan and fresh herbs. The eggs come caged with a carton to boot; made with truffles, bacon, garlic and garden herbs. Last but not least, the oysters (wrapped in a champagne cucumber mignonette, yuzu bubbles and beluga caviar) were absolute perfection and came in a really captivating octopus plate.

Before my main course I tried the colorful “Octopus Terrarium Salad” (filled with a speckling of deep sea yumminess, including seaweed.) The funky “Polynesian Fish Fry” (which is a crispy whole snapper, coconut jasmine rice, spicy veggie pineapple slaw and miso-kona lime remoulade, ) was my main event! The fish practically fell off the bone and who doesn’t love Jasmine rice? It’s one of my absolute favorite things on planet earth. The yummy side sauces complimented every bite perfectly.

Dessert was an over-the-top, free-for-all (in a good way) with the “Lolli Pot Garden” and “Brain Freeze.” The garden was beautiful with a variety of sweets and cake pops (mere words can’t even do the presentation justice) and the brain on a plate:(chocolate fudge mousse cake) was moist, rich and beyond decadent.

Needless-to-say, I did not leave hungry (which sometimes I do on my food blog!) I also left happy; my face actually hurt from smiling. Barton G. has a special artistic spirit that’s totally contagious. I noticed when dining, as each plate emerged from the kitchen (no matter the table,) everyone took turns oohing and awing over it. A mutual love of all things inspiring makes the restaurant’s vibrant energy undeniably palpable. Cheers!

Where:

In the heart of South Beach, just a few blocks away from Alton Road. Street parking is really tough in this area, but the good news? Barton G. provides a speedy valet; one you don’t have to wait a million years for like most restaurants on the beach.

When:

Sunday-Thursday 6pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 6pm-12am

www.bartongtherestaurant.com
Twitter: @Barton_G, IG: @bartongmia, FB: Barton G. The Restaurant

Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.Roald Dahl
Photographer: James Woodley
Wardrobe & Jewelry: @ErmannoScervino
Chanel Handbag: @SerendipityConsignment
Friday, December 4, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: La Moderna Miami

La Moderna Miami

La Moderna Miami

What:

La Moderna Miami, 1874 Bay Road, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

Why:

With a warm infectious atmosphere, sophisticated modern stylings and true Italian cuisine, “La Moderna Miami” is definitely one of my new favorite things. What’s more, it’s one of the few places I’ve been (as of late) that made me feel incredibly welcome and as if I were the most important person in the room.

As soon as I sat down, I was treated to a much-appreciated plate of (gratis) Focaccia and bubbly, but it paled in comparison to the three amazing drinks I sipped on (that touched even the most hardened film critics heart)…

The “Thelma & Louis” (made with opposing tastes including hibiscus infused aperol, extra dry rum, fresh strawberries, coconut soda water and prosecco) was my absolute fave: decadent, fresh and fruity. “Harry & Sally” (with tequila, pimento dram, lime, ancho reyes, agave nectar and egg white) was light, easy and definitely made me want to “have what she’s having!” At least, until the lustful “Kama e Sutra” arrived (made with templeton rye, lime juice, eucalyptus pear syrup, ginger beer and bitters.) Mmmm…yummy and sexy.

I dined on two appetizers: “Fiori Di Zucca” (tempura fried zucchini blossoms filled with goat cheese and three sauces) and “Gran Fritto de Mare” (fried calamari, shrimp, carrots and zucchini.) Both plates were fried to perfection, which means just the right amount of heat without taking out the flavor. The main course, “Sea Bass Al Cartoccio” (baked chilean sea bass, capers, olives and mini veggies) was magnificent.

For dessert, “Millefoglie” (puff pastry served with Chantilly cream and fresh fruit) was light and subtle. Complimentary grappa and/or limoncello ended the night just right.

The spirit of the service (which was amazing,) great atmosphere and delicious food makes “La Moderna Miami” one of my favorite things, not to mention the fact that it’s all things straight from Rome! What’s not to “amare?”

Where:

The restaurant is located in what I call the “sleepy” part of South Beach (the North West corner.) It’s an area that has beach flair without all the craziness of Lincoln Road or Collins Avenue. Tourism is great, but sometimes a girl just wants to feel special in her own city without all the out-of-town fuss. Parking is easy with several garages in the hood and in true Italian style, they have a plethora of scooter spaces. It’s the perfect place to bring a vespa. Saluti!

When:

Monday-Thursday 11:30am-1:00am, Friday-Saturday 11:30am-2:00am & Sunday 11:30am-12:00am

www.lamoderna-miami.com
Twitter, Instagram & FB: @LaModernaMiami

Laughter is brightest where food is best.anonymous
Shirt: www.hauteglamboutique.com
Skirt: @koreboutique
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Hair/MUA: Odett Hernandez
Friday, November 27, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

What:

Apeiro 3252 NE 1st Avenue, Suite 101, Miami, Florida 33137

Why:

If you enjoy a lively atmosphere and Mediterranean food with a modern twist; “Apeiro” is the place for you. With a beautiful light-colored interior (highlighted in blues and yellows,) artistic swirly chandeliers and an open-air kitchen, it’s the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you’re in the Greek Islands (at least during the day.)

At night, it’s a different story. It’s more like, say, Miami. 😁🌴🍹 When my crew and I visited last Friday night, the outside bar was standing room only. It was like being on the beach, but with a little more panache. The staff, especially Chef David Blonsky (who hails from Chicago and most recently Siena Tavern,) was extremely affable. He’s a celebrity chef, so he gets it.

I started Spotlight off with their signature drink, “Apeiro Signature” (don Q crystal rum, cantaloupe, lemon juice, basil, rose pepper and simple syrup.) It was by far my favorite; fresh and unusual. My company would disagree, though. One of my BFF’s and stylist, Jackie Kay, was on-hand to help with tasting duties. She loved the “Mayfair Lady” (vodka infused with hibiscus rose hips, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and champagne.) Although the drink was sweet, it packed a major punch. My photographer, James, really liked the “Salted Le Melon” (melon vodka, cantaloupe and lime juice.) Warning: it goes down quick and easy.

I tried three appetizers: “Bunelo” (cheese, prosciutto, jam and puffed pastries.) Side note: this dish is served with truffle honey and I’m highly allergic to truffle oil. I tried mine without and it was still delish. The “Burrata” had a twist of sweetness (made with cherry tomato jam, arugula and toasted ciabatta.) My absolute favorite of the night was the “Akushi Steak Tartare” (with bone marrow vinaigrette, calabrian chile, served with a warm, puffy pita.) It was savory with good marbling and had a nice texture.

I tried two main dishes: “Lamb Kefta” and “Roasted Branzino.” The lamb was great, served with Tzatziki sauce, koshari rice and a green onion salad, but the whole fish (with acqua pazza sauce, koshari rice and herb oil) was pretty spectacular. I was especially full after dinner and didn’t really have room for dessert until I feasted my eyes on…

The “Triple Layer Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie!” It was a sight for sore eyes and tasted even better than it looked (hmmm…moist and delicious.) The “Bomboloni” (which is an Italian doughnut,) is served with three small squeezy bottles of Nutella chocolate, salted caramel and strawberry. You take your favorite flavor (or all three) and inject them into the heart of the pastry. Last but not least, my favorite dessert: “Waffle Cone Sundae” (your choice of gelato with chocolate hazelnut and caramel sauce, candied walnuts, amarena cherries and whipped cream.) I almost licked the bowl.

From the hip atmosphere, the chic decor, great outdoor space and modern Mediterranean food, which includes local ingredients and produce, “Apeiro Kitchen and Bar” (which in Ancient Greek means infinite or boundless,) is definitely one of my new favorite things. Cheers!

Where:

Apeiro is located in the heart of Midtown Miami. It’s just a few doors down from “Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill” and “Bocce Bar.” Street parking is always tough in this part of town, but they have plenty of self parking garages and valet in the area. If you live a little further north, you’re in luck, Apeiro is also located in Delray Beach (the restaurant’s original location.)

When:

Sunday-Wednesday 11:30am-11:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 11:30am-1:00am.

miami.apeirorestaurants.com
Twitter & IG: @ApeiroMiami, FB: Apeiro Kitchen & Bar

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.Hippocrates
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer/Editor: Jessie Rosario
wardrobe: @KoreBoutique
Friday, November 20, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

What:

GK Bistronomie, 218 NW 25th Street, Miami, Florida 33127

Why:

When I write my food blog, I always hashtag my social media with #FoodIsLove, but at GK Bistronomie, #FoodIsArt and then some. The Peruvian-style eatery is creative, innovative and frankly, one of the most interesting places I’ve been to in a long time. The food is what Angelina Jolie is to the human race: breathtakingly beautiful, intriguing and sexy.

The restaurant itself has a modern feel mixed with an artsy vibe. Along with an open-air kitchen, there’s also a cool indoor/outdoor bar with an impressive selection of Peruvian Pisco’s (made in house.) Executive Chef Rafael Perez is a true artist, sculpting, mixing and plating food into colorful, decorative, delicious masterpieces. The best part? The restaurant and those who work there aren’t pretentious (no food snobs here.) Instead, they’re friendly, knowledgeable and care about your dining experience.

My “Spotlight” started with my usual drink fest (don’t hate, this is what you guys request when I’m out and about.) “Queen Mayra” (with absolut pear, passion fruit, celery and ylang, ylang,) “Linda Paloma” (pisco infuse with ginger, pear, green tea, orange, fresh squeezed lime, fresh pineapple, indian spices) and “Wynwood Sahumerio” (absolut elyx, star fruit, orange darjeeling and chamomile.)

The Queen was all kinds of fresh yumminess with a very pear-y taste with hints of essential oils. Oh, Linda! was exotic, spicy and smooth; but it was the Sahumerio that I wanted to have a Sunday brunch affair with: along with a cool dry ice presentation and a large square cut ice cube, it had this great fresh, tangy orange taste to it. If I wasn’t working, my play would have been to double down.

I tried three appetizers: “Parmesan” (grouper, parmesano reggiano, lime, chives, aji limo) “Peruvian Seafood” (corvina, octopus, calamari, shrimp, mussels, lime, cilantro, red onion, aji limo, sweet potato and choclo) and “Crab And Avocado” (jumbo lump crab, aji amarillo, papa amarilla, rocoto, caviar.) Each plate was so gorgeous, it was hard to eat; but once I dug in, my guilt wholeheartedly subsided.

The grouper was my favorite. It was smooth, creamy and cheesy (with a nice kick to it.) The Peruvian plate, which was actually a bowl, came with a top: uncapping it gave way to a rich, smokey flavor and who doesn’t love crab mixed with avocado? It was a charming balance of two of my favorite foods.

For my main course, I tried the “Black Grouper” (which is pan seared black grouper, shrimp, octopus, clams, mussels, quinoa and seafood broth.) This plate had amazing texture because of the quinoa, which I think of as more of a health food, but still, it was incredibly yummy with delicate touches of the aforementioned seafood. The broth was magical and not too “soupy.”

Last but not least, the “Nutella Mousse” is what I had for dessert, with the most amazing latte and sugar stick (a spur of-the-moment addition by our wonderful server.) The mousse (made with almonds, dark chocolate, cardamom and coffee meringue,) was decadent and rich. Oh, and that latte!? It was something else! Our waitress told us she had worked at a coffee place (awhile ago) and had mastered her coffee-making skills. Actually, she said: “I was a slave to making lattes.” Whatever she did, she has some mad coffee making skilllz. Hats off to her!

The presentation alone is enough to impress anyone who dines at GK Bistronomie, but mix that with the fact that the food actually tastes amazing and the people who run the place are really cool and you can’t go wrong. At this restaurant, food isn’t just love, #FoodIsArt and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things. Cheers!

Where:

GK Bistronomie is located in the heart of the Wynwood Art District (about a block away from the Wynwood Walls.) The artsy area is slowly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Magic City. From speciality stores to cutting edge restaurants and bars, it’s definitely one of the most impressive and provocative parts of Miami. Street parking is tricky in this area because of the high volume of traffic (more so on the weekends,) but they have a valet right out in front of the restaurant that’s pretty quick and efficient (at least from my experience.)

When:

Monday-Saturday 11:30am-11:30pm, Sunday 11:30am-10:30pm

www.gkbistronomie.com
786-477-5151
FB: GK Bistronomie Twitter: @GkbWynwood IG: @gkbwynwood

Try to learn to breathe deeply, really to taste food when you eat, and when you sleep, really to sleep. Try as much as possible to be wholly alive with all of your might, and when you laugh, laugh like hell. And when you get angry, get good and angry. Try to be alive. You will be dead soon enough.Ernest Hemingway
Dress: @HotMiamiStyles Duster: @KoreBoutique Shoes: @alepel_byadrianaPhotographer: James Woodley
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Producer/Blogger: Shireen Sandoval

Friday, November 13, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,