Shireen’s Spotlight: Byblos inside The Royal Palm Hotel

Byblos inside The Royal Palm Hotel

Byblos inside The Royal Palm Hotel

Byblos inside The Royal Palm Hotel

Byblos inside The Royal Palm Hotel

What:

Byblos, 1545 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33140

Why:

Despite only being open for a little over a month, “Byblos” is one of the hottest places in town! When I went with my crew last Friday night, it was standing room only. The bar was beyond-packed and there wasn’t an empty seat in the house. The place was absolutely buzzing with a “hip and happening” type of atmosphere.

The Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, decorated in yellow, blues and washed-out whites, feels like a true Grecian getaway. Its warm, dim lighting and candle-laden walls and shelves makes for the perfect romantic night out on the town. Not only that, even though the place is new to the city (its flagship restaurant is based in Toronto,) it’s already participating in Miami Spice. Lucky me!

I started the night with the much-talked about “Gulab” cocktail (made with rose infused vodka, pomegranate syrup and fresh lime juice.) Out of all the Spotlights I’ve done, this drink is by far the most beautiful and tasty I’ve ever been offered. It reminded me of an exotic snow cone. (Note to self: go back for more.) The “Cucumber Swizzle” was just as interesting (made with gin, pressed cucumber juice and fresh mint.)

For Spice, “Byblos” offers three choices from its appetizer menu. I dined on the “Duck Kibbeh” (made with dried figs, date molasses and tahini,) “Salmon Kibbeh Nayeh” (with turkish paste, mint and labneh) and “Fresh Crispy Squid” (with yummy bandari spice, schug and toum.) Each plate had an interesting flavor and texture, but it was the duck that dazzled me. James, my photographer, loved the salmon because it was clean, yet succulent.

For dinner, you can choose one main course and a side. I went with the “Roasted Snapper” (doused with chraimeh sauce and house yogurt.) It was rich with an interesting mix of spices and for my side, I had the mind-blowing “Mejadra” (with lentils, labneh and fried shallots.) It was a big iron-cast bowl of yummy goodness. I liked it so much, I actually looked up its history. The Arab dish is so popular it’s said that: “A hungry man would be willing to sell his soul for a dish of mujaddara.” No doubt, this hungry woman agrees.

You can also choose one dessert from their Spice menu; I had the petite and pretty “Yogurt Mousse Pistachio Cake” (made with orange blossom water, pomegranate molasses and paradise farms flower jam.) This plate was almost too beautiful to eat; I especially loved the trimmings of fresh flower petals. I’d love to go back to “Byblos” when it’s not so crowded to enjoy its atmosphere in a more leisurely nature, but I guess for now, I have to share this popular gem with the rest of Miami. It’s definitely one of my new favorite things.

Where:

Byblos is smack dab in the middle of South Beach and is adjacent to the charmingly modern Royal Palm Hotel. If you’re visiting from out of town, you’ll love the restaurant/hotel location because it’s easy and convenient. You’re literally next to everything and anything you can dream of on vacation.

If you’re a local, you’ll need to give yourself extra time to make your way down Collins Avenue (because it tends to be extra busy on the weekend, especially as we’re going into tourist season (although, I think it’s always tourist season these days!) As for parking? Your best bet in the heart of SoBe is to valet! The hotel gives a preferred rate of $15 dollars if you’re dining at Byblos. Cheers!

When:

Monday-Sunday: 6pm-Close

A heart that loves is always young.Greek Proverb

For reservations call 305-508-5041or reservations@byblosmiami.com.
www.byblosmiami.com.
Twitter: @ByblosMiami
Instagram: @byblostoronto
FB: Byblos Miami, Restaurant & Lounge

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario

shop this blog look on Instagram
Wardrobe: @DVF
Jewelry: @lgeorgedesigns
Shoes: @irregularchoice

Special thanks to Carma Public Relations.
Wanna be featured on Spotlight? Email me at ShireenSandoval@yahoo.com

Friday, September 4, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta inside Fontainebleau (featuring Miami Spice)

Scarpetta inside Fontainebleau

Scarpetta inside Fontainebleau

Scarpetta inside Fontainebleau

What:

Scarpetta, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33140

Why:

I’ve always loved Scarpetta; it’s one of my absolute favorite restaurants in Miami. From the blue and white nautical decor, the petite hydrangea bouquets, the mosaic/ceramic tiling, stunning seaside views (and let’s not forget about that homemade tomato and basil spaghetti) I mean, what’s not to love? So when they invited me to taste their “Miami Spice Prix-Fixe,” menu, it was kind of a no- brainer.

I started my evening with a few drinks, per usual. The extra-light and yummy “Sorrento” (made with oxley gin, house-made limoncello & basil) definitely set the mood, but it was no competition for the “Bari,” a yummy watermelon/tequila concoction with a spicy Serrano (pepper) kick. If mixed drinks aren’t your thing, no worries. Scarpetta has a few yummy wines on their Spice menu, too.

For starters, there are five different plates to choose from. I savored the following three: “Seared Tuna” (with anchovy, capers and almonds,) “Mediterranean Octopus” (served with potatoes, capers, olives and smoked crema) and the “Mozzarella In Carrozza” (with stewed baby tomatoes.) The tuna was fresh, the octopus had a great texture to it and the mozzarella was a ball of gooey, cheesy goodness.

For dinner, there are also five plates being offered. I dined on the following three: The “Short Rib Agnolotti Dal Plin” (served with horseradish, red wine & bread crumbs,) “Local Snapper” (with arugula puree’, lemon and zucchini soffritto) and “Oven Roasted Chicken” (served with a vegetable fricassee, fregola and balsamic reduction. OMG, the rib pasta was to die for (it was my favorite,) but a close second was the chicken. I would never go to a place like Scarpetta and order chicken, because I like to go all out when I’m having a special meal, but in this case, wowza! The chicken was succulent and layered with amazing flavor. It’s a must-try if you’re not into pasta or you’re watching your waistline.

There are two desserts to pick from on Scarpetta’s Spice menu and luckily, I got to try them both: The “Tiramisu” (made with coffee, mascarpone & salted caramel gelato) and the “Almond Panna Cotta” (with toasted almonds & raspberry sorbet.) Both were beyond decadent, but the panna cotta was so smooth and yummy, I could have had two!

Even though I didn’t taste the “Prime Sirloin of Beef” and “Spaghetti” (which are also both on the special menu,) I’ve actually had them before and they’re excellent choices. Their Miami Spice menus are just $39 for dinner, and $23 for lunch – you can’t beat that on the beach. From the fabulous food to the upscale Miami-esque atmosphere, you can never go wrong at a Scott Conant restaurant and that’s why Scarpetta is definitely one of my favorite things. Cheers!

Where:

The easiest way to find Scarpetta (inside the Fontainebleau) is to valet at its mid driveway location and walk to the right (south) down the hotel’s long marble corridor. It’s the first entry way on your left. You’ll notice the moody lighting and double hostess stands (flanking both sides of the entrance.)

Street parking is always tough in this area unless you’re willing to walk. There is a garage a few long blocks south of the hotel; just make sure you wear comfy shoes. I suggest valet, though; I mean, who wants to be sweaty before a glamorous dinner? Plus, the restaurant will validate your ticket to make it more affordable. Cheers!

When:

Dinner & Lounge Sunday-Thursday 6pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 6pm-12am.

Everything you see I owe to pasta.Sophia Loren

reservations: 305-674-4660
Website: www.fontainebleau.com/web/dining/scarpetta
Twitter: @ScarpettaMiami
IG: @ScarpettaRestaurants

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario

My outfit is a mishmash of some of my favorite things:
Shirt: @bloomingdales
Skirt: @Tikiboutique
Purse: @xobetseyjohnson
Shoes: @kokopalenki
Jewelry: @magentacouture

A special thank you to Brustman Carrino Public Relations
Wanna be featured on Spotlight? Email ShireenSandoval@yahoo.com

Friday, August 28, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Michael Mina 74 inside the Fontainebleau Hotel

Michael Mina 74

Michael Mina 74

Michael Mina 74

Michael Mina 74

What:

Michael Mina 74, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach Florida, 33140

Why:

Mysterious, dark and glamorous; Michael Mina 74 is my kind of hang-out. The place oozes fabulousness by way of one of my favorite Miami Beach hot spots, the Fontainebleau Hotel. It’s snuggled into the lower level of the “Rat Pack”‘s former stomping grounds: think old school Hollywood Charm meets modern day sophistication. Friday night Spotlight, here I come!

I started my evening with a crisp and refreshing “Pimm’s Cup 74” (made with plymouth gin, pineapple, Pimm’s no. 1, lemon and mint.) I’ve always been a big Pimm’s lover, especially as I’ve frequented London (UK) a lot during the summer, but finding a drink stateside that compares is almost impossible. Until now! “MM74” hit the nail on the head big time with its version. It’s a definite must-try!! Yes, I’m a writer and I just used two exclamation points (insert crying emoji here.) Oh, how I love breaking the rules.

“The Kramer” (a new spin on the cosmo) was interesting and fizzy with a pretty aftertaste that lingers on the tongue (made with vodka, st. germaine, elderflower, aperol and lime.) It came complete with a lovely flower-pressed ice cube. Beautiful and delish; love it. Austin Powers would totally be jelly to know I was drinking the fanciful “Goldfinger” without him (made with bombay sapphire east, hangar one straight, tempus fugit kina l’avion d’or.) Don’t ask me about that last ingredient I just rattled off, all I know is this drink is decadent, mind-blowing and I savored every last drop. Can you say “another round, please?”

BTW, “MM74” has a really cool “Social Hour” where you can dine on complimentary snacks and drink for less; I tried a few things from that menu first. Everyone in my crew loved the “Lamb Brochettes” (little lamb meatballs with date chutney and onion yogurt,) but my heart belonged to the “Mini Caprese Salad” (made with toybox tomatoes stuffed with whipped burrata, topped with aged balsamic and basil pistou.)

For Miami Spice, “MM74” gave me a divine sampling of its menu: the meaty “Summer Crab Roll” (made with alaskan king, jumbo lump and snow crab with sambal aioli and warm ponzu butter) was extra decadent and the “Scallop Ditalini” (made with bay scallops, ditalini pasta, pesto and aged parmesan air) was my absolute favorite. The texture was lively and the pasta itself was unbelievably buttery. This dish absolutely melted in my mouth. I was smitten from the first bite.

My first dessert was a glass filled with “Churros” (topped with cinnamon sugar and served with dulce de leche.) It was total yummy goodness. Next was the decadent “Blueberry Clafoutis” (with vanilla anglaise and lemon crumble.) Hmmm….hello, lover. It must have been good because that’s how I usually address my designer shoes.

From the atmosphere to the presentation (and let’s not forget about the top quality taste,) “Michael Mina 74” is definitely one of my favorite things. Matter of fact, I can’t wait to go back. Especially to celebrate Miami Spice! (Yes, another exclamation point.)

Where:

Inside the uber-trendy and fabulously chic (aforementioned) Fontainebleau Hotel on Miami Beach. It’s just to the right as you walk inside the old school, Art Deco entrance. You’ll see a sign with the restaurant’s name and a winding staircase that leads down. Just follow it.

The hotel always has valet, but pack your patience as it’s always a bit of a waiting game on the beach. Street parking just isn’t an option unless you’re willing to walk. There’s a garage about four long blocks away. Maybe it’s worth walking off dessert, but I prefer the valet. It’s some of the best people watching the Magic City has to offer.

When:

Sunday-Thursday 6pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 6pm-2am.

I cook with wine. Sometimes I even add it to the food.W.C. Fields

reservations: 305-674-4636
website: www.michaelmina.net
Instagram: @chefmichaelmina
Twitter: @MM74Miami
FB: Michael Mina

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario

Dress: Chloé
Shoes: Bebe
Jewelry: Koko & Palenki
Purse: a gift from my mom!

Wanna dress me or provide accessories for Spotlight and get your boutique some exposure? If so, private message my stylist, Jackie Kay, on Instagram @JackieKay2013 (serious inquiries only.)

Special thanks to Brustman Carrino Public Relations

Friday, August 7, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Pasta Vino Restaurant & Lounge

Pasta Vino Restaurant & Lounge

©James Woodley Photography 
www.james-woodley.com

Pasta Vino Restaurant & Lounge

Pasta Vino Restaurant & Lounge

What:

Pasta Vino, 1624 NE 79th Street Causeway, North Bay Village, Florida 33141

Why:

Everyone is extremely warm, welcoming and the owner, Yiannis Devert, who also happens to be the Executive Chef, is like a character straight out of a movie. He’s worldly, educated and extremely charming. Think a handsome Robert De Niro (from about twenty years ago,) mixed with the modern day smarts of Elliott Gould, who most recently played Reuben Tishkoff in the “Ocean’s Eleven” movies.

Yiannis is all about whipping up a feast and believe you me, he wants you to eat. He NEEDS you to eat. It’s all about being happy and yes, it’s that simple. I’d like to say my experience at “Pasta Vino” was straight-up Italian, but I’d be totally lying. It seemed to be a mix of influences: French, Greek, Italian and Thai. Not only was it adventurous, it was a true reflection of his heritage and all the places he’s had the privilege of living or visiting.

I started my meal with a tall glass of the house Merlot and an extremely fresh “Carvino Ceviche.” It was the perfect blend of lemony, lime citrus with a light kick. With that being said, Yiannis isn’t one of those chefs who lists (all) the ingredients in his plates; a lot of it is pure chance. In other words, what he feels like fixing is on the menu and those are coined “specials.” For the record, I love that kind of unpretentious attitude.

Next, I tried the “Calamari Salad” (which is a warm appetizer and on the menu.) Like most items at “Pasta Vino,” it was a large, decadent helping. Definitely big enough to share. The “Salmon Tartare” was an interesting blend of sweet and spicy ginger and reminded me of something I would easily gobble up at my favorite local Thai restaurant. The “Beef Carpaccio” was pretty straightforward (with arugula, shaved parmesan and a lemon dressing.)

For my main course, I actually tried three dishes: “The Risotto Al Funghi” (with mixed mushrooms, parmesan cheese and truffle oil,) the “Lasagna Fiorentina” which came with a charming garnish which seemed like a pressed potato latke with a spruce of greenery in the middle of it (the lasagna is baked in layers with ground beef, ricotta, parmesan cheese and tomato sauce) and last but not least, the evening’s special “Ossobuco” (with veal, veggies and a white wine sauce.)

The night ended with two sweet treats: a dainty Tiramisu (made with Amaretto and Kahlua) and the oh-so-fruity “Strawberry Melba,” which is a typical French dessert (made with whipped cream, fruit and ice cream.) Despite the restaurant opening just a few months ago, the bar was lively during dinner and a few regulars lingered at nearby tables with good conversation and wine.

Where:

“Pasta Vino” is located on the 79th Street Causeway, which I’m thrilled about, as I work just a block down the street. It’s a sleepy location, tucked away in a fairly quiet strip mall. Honestly, though, a place like this is long overdue. We have hardly any options in North Bay Village when it comes to a relaxed, but delicious lunch or dinner. Parking is plentiful just in front of the restaurant. Cheers!

When:

Monday to Friday 11:30am-10:30pm, Saturday 5:00pm-11:00pm and Sunday 5:00pm-10:00pm.

I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.Michelangelo

Reservations 305-763-8608
www.pasta-vino.com
Twitter: @PastaVinoMiami
IG: @pastavinomiami
FB: Pasta Vino Miami

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Photographer: James Woodley
Stylist: Jackie Kay

Wardrobe & Jewelry provided by www.lilacandlilies.com
Twitter: @LilacAndLilies
IG: @lilacandlilies_boutique
FB: Lilac And Lilies Boutique

clutch by Monsoon, London
us.monsoon.co.uk

special thanks to 24 Group PR

Friday, July 31, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mina’s Mediterraneo

Mina's Mediterraneo

Mina's Mediterraneo

Mina's Mediterraneo

What:

Mina’s, 749 NE 79th Street, Miami, Florida 33138

Why:

Chic, industrial and warm, Mina’s reminds me of some of my favorite restaurants in my beloved hometown of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s even reminiscent of some of the cool, laid back, hipster spots I used to frequent in Austin, Texas (when I was a young, budding entertainment reporter working in The Lone Star State.)

Mina’s is the kind of place that just makes you feel good when you walk through the door, boasting a line of big, beautiful windows perched high against its back wall giving off a sense of roominess and different shades of moody lighting. During the day, it’s bright and airy; at dusk, it’s self-assured and sexy. When it gets dark, candles illuminate the dining room in a golden amber-like glow. Fresh cut flowers give each table a dose of unpretentious personality.

I started my dinner at the lively bar, where friendly locals chatted with me about how much they loved the place and how much they actually frequented it during the work week (at least twice, sometimes more.) My first drink of the night was the popular “Marakesh Cocktail” (made with Moroccan Mint Tea, Rye Whiskey and spiced pomegranate.) It’s definitely strong enough for a man, but women will like it, too. At least, if you’re like me and enjoy a stiff, strong drink. Back on the ranch, we describe it as “a beverage that’ll grow hair on your chest.”

“The Dusty Rose” was next and was my absolute favorite (made with white rum, pineapple, St. Germaine, rose water and cranberry.) Mmmm…it was unique, feminine and extremely appealing. My photographer, James, was all about the “Fresco Verde” (made with muddled cucumber, mint, basil, honey, gin and ginger beer.) It was definitely refreshing, smooth and I’d even go as far as describing it as effervescent.

Before I drank myself under the bar, I headed to my table to start my dinner with some amazing “Small Plates” on the menu. I really love this concept, too. Drinks, light bites and a great atmosphere; it’s reason enough to check the place out if you’ve never been before. Also, if you just wanna hang (I especially love the outdoor patio,) it’s got this really chill vibe, with live music every Thursday. Every third week of the month, they host something called: Play-te (great food and a theatre reading.) But I digress…

There’s nothing like a good dip! I started off with four amazingly fresh, mouthwatering ones: Besara (ground fava beans, cilantro, dill, parsley, celery, onion and garlic.) Tzatziki (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, mint.) Baba Ghanoug (roasted eggplant, chickpeas and tahini.) Spicy Feta (Bulgarian feta with harissa.) This was one of my favorite parts of the meal, however…

I was completely infatuated with the “Spanakopita” (a serving of spinach feta phylo pies.) They were light, fluffy and fantastic. “The Stuffed Cabbage” was a pretty close second (served with rice, meat, onions in a savory tomato sauce. I need this in my life at least once a week.) I’m not a fan of “Grape Leaves,” per se, but wow — I surprisingly gobbled up two with no questions asked. My last appetizer, the “Lamb Burger Sliders” (with harissa, tatziki, tomato and lettuce) were absolute perfection.

Now, you’re probably thinking how in the world could I possibly have had room left for dinner after that appetizer extravaganza? Well, I may be wee, but I’m willful! Especially, with the quality and taste of the food. What’s more, Yasmine Kotb (Mina’s owner,) is so generous and kind, her food is a direct extension of her personality. With that being said, you can’t help but wanna try everything on the menu.

Before my main course, though, I tried “The Mersault” (made with muddled cherry tomatoes, lime juice, rosemary, tequila and a touch of harissa.) This drink wasn’t just photogenic, it was incredibly interesting. It was layered with unique flavors, reminding me of a fresh herb garden and who doesn’t love a drink peppered with little cherry tomatoes?

I dined on the “Osso Buco” for my main plate (lamb shank braised in wine sauce with mashed potatoes.) The lamb was soft, tender and a perfect cornucopia of classic flavors. The potatoes were fluffy, buttery and delicious, too. For dessert, three plates landed in front of me: Tiramisu, Walnut Baklava and Dark Chocolate Tart. Hands down, the tart stole my heart (insert crying emoji here.)

The thing I love most about Mina’s is that’s it’s close to Channel 7, so it’s my neighborhood hang-out, but truth-be-told, that’s exactly what it’s like even if you don’t live on 79th Street. It’s a friendly atmosphere, the food is fresh and it’s a fabulous place to feel part of our ever-changing community.

Where:

Mina’s is the Upper Eastside of Miami, which is slowly but surely turning into a bustling area; with clothing shops, different restaurants, hairs salons and home decor stores. The restaurant has a pretty big parking lot, so that’s not an issue. Not only that, Mina’s is working on free valet to make it even easier. Cheers!

When:

Tues-Friday 5pm-10:30pm, Saturday 12pm-10:30pm, Sunday 11am-9pm and Happy Hour Tues-Sunday 5pm-7pm.

The Mediterranean has the color of mackerel, changeable I mean. You don’t always know if it is green or violet, you can’t even say it’s blue, because the next moment the changing reflection has taken on a tint of rose or gray.Vincent Van Gogh

www.minasmiami.com
Twitter: @MinasMiami
IG: @minasmiami
FB: Mina’s Mediterraneo

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Stylist: Pam Garcia

Wardrobe & Jewelry provided by www.KokoPalenki.com
Twitter: @KokoPalenki
IG: @kokopalenki
FB: Koko & Palenki

Friday, July 24, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,