Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

Shireen’s Spotlight: M House

What:

An early Sunday night dinner at “M House” in Coral Gables — where Mediterranean food exudes European sophistication.

Why:

One step inside “M House” and you’ll be completely enamored; I know I was. The warm lighting, natural decor, bold green furniture and airy dining room whispers “retro glam,” but it’s the food that speaks volumes and rightly so.

The restaurant was the brainchild of the late, great Chef Alfredo Alvarez, who was in the middle of bringing “M House” to life when he suddenly passed. Luckily, one of his former colleagues, Chef Abraham Silva, stepped in to keep Alvarez’ dream alive. Now, the Euro-inspired menu is a direct reflection of both chefs’ incredible talents and that’s definitely worth a #Spotlight celebration.

I started my “M House” experience with the tasty & tart “Las Ramblas” made with vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, raspberries & blackberries crushed together with St. Germain. Hmmm.. while delicious, it was “The Venetian” that really seduced me with gin, simple syrup, lemon juice, raspberries and egg whites. It’s a #FrothyAndSmooth #MustTry

The tender “DayBoat Scallops” was the first appetizer I tried. The East Coasters are seared and served with polenta and mushrooms. The charcoal-grilled Mediterranean Octopus comes on top of roasted zucchini with a tomato Salmoriglio sauce, but it’s the Tahini in the dish that makes it extra special. If you want something out of the ordinary, try the “Wagyu Toast,” which is under the Crudo part of the menu. The perfectly seasoned steak tartare is placed on top of lavosh bread and comes with a pickled celery garnish.

I’m a sucker for a good salad and the “Florida Burrata” didn’t disappoint with heirloom tomato and shaved fennel served in a saba glaze (balsamic vinegar). Since “M House” is known for its fresh fish (wild, local & Mediterranean,) it sells out quickly. They were actually running low the night I went, but our server suggested the remaining Striped Bass. I had my doubts, but…

Prepared in a Jopser Oven (a sophisticated charcoal grill & oven in one) and served in gremolata sauce, which is chopped parsley, garlic and lemon zest topped with parmesan, I was one happy camper. A side of tender asparagus was the perfect accoutrement.

Every week “M House” changes its desserts, but I scored big-time with a tasty “Lemon Mousse” and my favorite, “Feta CheeseCake” served with strawberry & raspberry jelly and smoked ice cream 😀😍❗️

If you want your tastebuds to travel to places like Spain, Italy, Portugal and Greece without ever leaving South Florida, book a table at “M House” and enjoy a savory trip around the world – it’s definitely one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

M House
2524 S Le Jeune Rd
Coral Gables, Florida 33134

When:

Wednesday – Friday 11:30am-11pm
Saturday 5pm-12am
Sunday-Tuesday 11:30am-10pm

786-369-5155
Reservations@MHouseRestaurant.com

Be Social:
IG @mhousemiami #SeenAtMHouse
www.mhouserestaurant.com

I felt once more how simple and frugal a thing is happiness: a glass of wine, a roast chestnut, a wretched little brazier, the sound of the sea. Nothing else.Nikos Kazantzakis
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @dvf
wrap bracelet @eyegotchacovered
clutch: @anthropologie
shoes: @alepel_byadriana
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “M Boy” Auerbach
Friday, August 31, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

Cups O’ Fun

What:

Cheeky, sarcastic and really cool sayings I can finally get on board with — served with a side of morning coffee by #SheMugs. Oh, and after 5pm, “Cups O’ Fun” could be filled with something a little stronger. #JustSaying 😉

Why:

I may look like a frilly girl with my love of fashion and all, but when it comes to my personality, I’m pretty much a straight shooter. As a journalist, I have to have thick skin and somewhat of a sarcastic sense of humor because let’s face it, sometimes the world sucks and a good laugh can help you get through the BS of it all.

That’s why I’m totally digging the new online coffee cup company, SheMugs. They’ll slap anything on a #CupOfJoe and I do mean anything. Quirky sayings, pop culture quotes, even your deep-seated thoughts and believe you me, I have some pretty good ones or would that be bad ones? 😂

The first time I read some of their mug logos on Instagram, I howled with laughter and found myself talking out loud to my phone saying things like: “Exactly!” and “Oh, hellzzz to the yezzzz.” SheMugs doesn’t just say what you’re thinking, they manage to come up with things you didn’t even know you needed to say, but actually do. Lol. Does that make sense? The concept isn’t just fun, it’s refreshing. Especially in our “post a positive saying or inspirational quote” social media society.

Speaking of, there’s nothing I hate more than one of those cheesy spiritual posts telling me to “Love Myself” or “Be the person nobody thought I could be.” Blah, blah, blah. It’s the fastest way for me to unfollow someone. I get it, you need it for yourself, but why do I have to hear what your therapist is telling you? Or what you’re trying to extract from the universe yourself?

I’m all about positivity, but societal pressures are enough, I don’t want to see it on my feed, too. I need a healthy dose of realism that can help me cope with oversleeping, stubbing a toe, breaking a nail; you know — life stuff. Emotional & spiritual exploration isn’t going to help me meet my writing deadlines or get me through a 12-hour, non-stop day. For me…

SheMugs has those secret feel-good ingredients. It makes me laugh, it makes me smile; it takes the sting out of everyday life. It even gives new meaning to the simple pleasure of a great cup of coffee, tea, wine, sake, even vodka? I’m not judging. And, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, they customize personal sayings, mottos or, in my case, tagline: #ShireensFavoriteThings. The mugs themselves are great quality, too, or I wouldn’t put my name on one.

In full disclosure, there’s another reason I’m crazy about these cups. The company was created by my good friend, Jessie Neft-Swinger, who also happens to be the Digital Editor of my blog. She’s a computer guru, but sitting behind a desk all day was starting to zap her juju, so she came up with the idea of SheMugs and I have to tell you, I think it’s bloody brilliant. I’ve known Jessie a long time and even watched her get married on a beautiful December day. I cried because seeing people happy and in love is incredibly special and so is “Cups O’ Fun” and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers! (literally).

Where:

www.SheMugs.com

Be Social
IG: @shemugs
FB: @shemugs

i’m not one to brag, but i totally got out of bed todaySheMugs
James Woodley Photography
All coffee cups by SheMugs
Hair: Jess Stuver www.zenzensalon.com
Make-up: Tabitha Rey @makeupbytabs
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger — Creator of SheMugs
Editor: Matthew “Blah Blah Blah” Auerbach
Wednesday, August 29, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

Shireen’s Spotlight: Divino Ceviche

What:

Digging into some delicious Peruvian food & checking out the new umbrella installation in Coral Gables #ItLooksBetterInPerson ☂️

Why:

When I got an invitation to try authentic Peruvian food at “Divino Ceviche,” I jumped at the chance. Not only had I heard through the food vine it was a great local restaurant, but it also happens to be smack dab in the middle of the new #UmbrellaInTheSky installation on Giralda Avenue in Coral Gables. More on that in a minute, but first..

When I walked into “Divino Ceviche” last Sunday, there wasn’t an empty seat in the house which, of course, made me smile. I know it sounds a little crazy, but when someone wants you to eat at their restaurant to have an “experience” verses giving them “exposure,” it’s a different kind of feeling and I knew this was going to be one of those blogs.

“Divino Ceviche” — owned by Peruvian brothers, Frank & Christian Encalada — prides itself on food with a unique twist. While they specialize in Peruvian cuisine, it’s their contemporary take on it that makes it a must-try. In full disclosure, I haven’t had much Peruvian food in my lifetime, but I have done a few fusion blogs; nibbling on some ceviche, but for the most part, this was uncharted tasting territory.

Most people who go out to eat, myself included, like a little nosh right away, which is why the Sweet Potato Chips served with Yellow Pepper & Huacatay sauces really hit the spot. They’re light, sweet, crunchy and pair perfectly with a Pisco Sour. The Peruvian cocktail, which is fermented wine distilled in copper, is also blended with lemon juice and egg white. It’s #FrothyAndDelicious

If you’re gonna try Peruvian food, you may as well just dive right in and that’s exactly what I did with the restaurant’s namesake dish: “Ceviche Divino” (made with fish, avocado, mango and marinated in lime juice, chili and fresh cilantro.) Hmmm… it was fresh, tangy and had a little kick. It’s garnished with sweet potato and served with giant Peruvian corn called “cholo” which means maize, a British term for corn. I washed it down with the Passion Fruit Mojito, which was #TartAndFruity.

The Octopus Skewers, called “Pulp En Salsa Anticuchera” on the menu, had really great texture and taste. The seasoning, made with vinegar, cumin, garlic and chili, was pure magic, but it was the “Mini Tacu Tacus Con Lomito” that really stole my foodie heart. It’s basically cooked rice and beans mixed together, fried and served with beef tenderloin, quail eggs and Peruvian creole salsa. #WOWZA

If you like crispy squid, the “Ceviche de Mercado,” is worth trying. It’s described as the Chef’s Specialty, so you can’t go wrong there. Alongside squid, it comes with fresh fish marinated in mango and lime juice. If you prefer warm, hearty and flavorful, the “Arroz Con Moriscos” with shrimp, squid, mussels and scallops mixed with rice, red pepper, cilantro, and Peruvian panca pepper dressing, is a real showstopper.

I tried two desserts. “Suspiro de Limena,” which is a Peruvian staple that’s been around since the 1800’s, actually means “Sigh of Lima Lady” and was created by a famous Peruvian poet’s wife. After digging into the delicious treat for the first time, he described it as “sweet and light like a woman’s sigh.” It’s actually similar to #dulcedeleche and definitely worth the extra calories. The “Passion Fruit Cheesecake” was calling my name and so was a 4-Craft Beer Taster (all from breweries in Miami.) #NoShameInMyGame

As much as I love a good palette cleanser, there’s nothing like a great Pop Art Installation and “Divino Ceviche” is smack dab in the middle of the #UmbrellaProject in Coral Gables. The colorful set-up is a cool, new way to bring business to the already charming pedestrian avenue and it’s certainly done that, albeit for only a few short months. Similar pop-up’s have appeared in cities like Lisbon, Paris and Pensacola. It’s a #SelfieWaitingToHappen.

My recommendation? Make an afternoon of it. Dig into some true Peruvian cuisine and then take a stroll down Giralda. Not only will you burn off a few extra calories, the view is inspiring. I think it’ll make your day, I know it did mine and that’s why it’s one of my #FavoriteThings. Cheers!

Where:

Monday -Thursday: 12:00 AM – 09:00 PM
Friday: 12:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 AM – 09:00 PM
www.divinoceviche.com

Be Social
IG: @divinoceviche
FB: @DivinocevicheGB
Twitter: @DivinoCeviche

A prophet once said ‘Don’t tell me what a man says, don’t tell me what a man knows. Tell me where he’s traveled.’ I wonder about that, do we get smarter, more enlightenment as we travel? Does travel bring wisdom? I think there is probably no better place to find out than Peru.Anthony Bourdain
James Woodley Photography
Dress & earrings by @touchdolls
Jacket @zara
Clutch @forever21
Shoes @SteveMadden #LincolnRoad
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Divino” Auerbach
Friday, August 17, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

Dream Closet

What:

Discovering Lakzya — a place where you can rent high-end couture to keep up with your glamorous lifestyle. And yes, you’re gonna wanna post that outfit.

Why:

I had a complete break-down last Monday while shooting my #ootd picture. It was hot out, my dress was too tight and I just felt bad about myself. I chalked it up to the beginning of the week, but I knew it was more than that.

Over the weekend, I had been sick in bed suffering a CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy) flare up. It loves rearing its ugly head when I’m stressed-out or if I’ve exercised too much. In this case, I had done BOTH, so now, I was paying the price.

Normally, a few days off from my busy life would be a nice respite, but nerve discomfort doesn’t really work like that. You have to rest, take meds, but keep the mind busy, so you’re not thinking about the pain. During my episodes, I spend a lot of time watching television, shopping online and of course, looking at social media. Ahhhh, social media. It’s a blessing and a curse. Last week, it was the latter.

IG was killing me — all those intriguing vacations, perfect romantic relationships, challenging work-outs, sculpted bodies, amazing parties and perfectly posed bloggers. I closed my eyes and wished the images away, but they penetrated my psyche. Eventually, I drifted off into an uncomfortable sleep of not feeling good enough.

A few days later, after my flare-up had passed, there I was, tugging at my dress, trying to smile for the camera in the blazing noon day sun. Even though I had sworn off social media a few short days ago (when I was feeling sick,) there I was trying to “Keep Up with the Joneses” or I guess, in this day and age, it would be more like the Kardashians? Perhaps, though, I was just trying to keep up with myself. Speaking of…

My daily IG posts are to support my fashion & food blog, but over the years it’s grown into showcasing what I’m wearing on Deco Drive, too. Hence my #ootd pictures, and that’s not all — whatever I wear (whether it’s to a gala, cocktail party, work event, night on the town, vacation, brunch, lunch) it’s usually planned out to be picture perfect. #SayCheese It’s not just part of my job, it’s the modern-day way and while I do have a killer closet, more often than not, I find myself with NOTHING TO WEAR. #HowIsThatEvenPossible?

—Enter: LAKZYA—

A boutique that specializes in giving fashionistas their “Dream Closet” by renting out a highly curated selection of designer dresses, gowns and coats. When I first heard about it, “Rent the Runway” came to mind, of which I’ve never been a big fan. It’s not that I don’t like the concept; it’s because I need to see, feel, touch and have an experience with what I wear before I invest in it and #renttherunway is more of an online thing. I mean, they do have “some” stores, but good luck finding one.

While Lakzya does have an online presence, their main approach is hands-on. You make an appointment and a stylist helps you find what you’re looking for. My experience there was pretty amazing. I thought I’d find one, maybe two dresses to supplement my wardrobe demands but honestly, there were so many great things I actually had a hard time choosing. It wasn’t just about the choices, either, it was the diversity of them. I tried a Stella McCartney Jumper, a Christian Dior dress originally designed by John Galliano, a Fendi Belted day-to-nighttime dress and a gorgeous Preen by Thornton Bregazzi red and pink number.

Need a bag to match? No problem. Lakzya has Chanel, Ferragamo, Ximena Kavalekas, Balenciaga and more. Everything in the store is in mint condition. Some have never been worn, worn once or they’ve been beautifully restored to their original state. The fashions at Lakzya didn’t just make me happy, I giggled at the ease of it all. Forget “Dream Closet,” it’s more like a “Dream Present” that never stops giving, with weekly wardrobe coming in and out you’ll always find the BEST fashion has to offer.

What makes it even more appealing? The company was started by three incredibly chic women (Natalie, Anna and Valerie) who over the years, like most fashionistas, carefully invested in designer dresses and accessories, but after one wear that was it. With pictures, social media and intimate party circles, the beyond-expensive outfits would get pushed to the back of their closets where they lay in waiting for their next “possible” wear and that’s when the idea of a “Dream Closet” was born. #SharingIsCaring

Lakzya easily restored my faith in finding the perfect outfit for any occasion, especially after months of muttering: “I have nothing to wear” and I’m even feeling better (suck it, CIDP.) On that note, I realize social media is what you make it. Being interested and interesting online is how things roll these days, and finding healthy boundaries is important too, but first — let me post a picture of my “Dream Closet” outfit, because it’s definitely one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

Lakzya
1160 Kane Concourse
Suite 101
Bay Harbour Islands, Florida 33154

or shop-online www.lakzya.com

When:

Working Hours: 9am-6pm
or call/email to make an appointment 305-864-4746
Info@lakzya.com

Be Social:
IG: @lakzya

Fashion is life-enhancing and I think it’s a lovely, generous thing to do for other people.Vivienne Westwood
James Woodley Photography
Outside wardrobe by Hot Miami Styles
Inside clothing & handbags by Lakzya
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “McCartney” Auerbach
Wednesday, August 15, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novikov Miami

What:

A glamorous, one-of-a-kind dinner at “Novikov Miami” — where Japanese & Chinese food fuse together beautifully.

Why:

Usually when I do #Spotlight, there’s something about the restaurant I’m featuring that’ll blow me away; sometimes it’s the food, other times it’s the incredible service or perhaps, the lively atmosphere. When it comes to “Novikov Miami” — it’s ALL of those things wrapped into one. It’s simply, #WorldClass.

My experience at the already popular eatery, which has only been open a few short months, was nothing short of sublime. In fact, I found it incredibly provocative and frankly, it surprised me. While the restaurant’s reputation is outstanding in other parts of the world (London, Dubai and Moscow, ) that doesn’t always guarantee success locally, but boy-oh-boy — “Novikov Miami” is definitely something to write home about. I’d even send a follow-up letter to get my point across. 💌

Its cuisine, which is some of the best in the Magic City, is fresh, clean and artistic and its modern decor matches, perfectly. Think “contemporary cool meets Miami sophistication.” If that weren’t enough — location, location, location. Its view has major real estate moxie; sitting on the edge of downtown close to the water (where the bay meets the river.) When I went last weekend, the sun was setting and the restaurant was bathed in a deliciously warm glow. It was heaven on earth…

Or maybe that was the “Wasabi Martini” talking. Made with vodka, purple basil, pineapple, wasabi, lemon and yuzu, you’ll be “drank” into submission. I’ve never even heard of a “Wasabi Martini,” let alone tried one. It was refreshing with a familiar kick and definitely a #MustTry. The “Apricot Margarita” is pretty special, too and if you like tequila, you’ll be in cocktail paradise (it’s made with prosecco, apricot, cardamom, clove and lemon.) If you prefer something stronger, “Kiri Old Fashioned” will get your motor running with whisky, spiced kola, applewood smoke and bitters. #ComeToMama

If you’re regular blog reader, you know how I love to cry when I eat, it’s the New Mexico girl in me and the “Scallop Jalapeño” didn’t disappoint. If you’re a little gun- shy, though, it comes with a sweet potato puree to tame the flame. The “Yuzu Salmon” topped with sesame seeds was simple & delicious. I’m a sucker for a good Yuzu sauce, especially when it’s salty & savory like Novikov’s.

There’s not a “too pretty to eat” category on the sushi menu, but if there were, you’d find “A5 Wagyu topped with Foie Gras” & “Chu Toro garnished with Caviar and gold flecks”. This was my favorite of the night. I’ve always struggled developing a taste for toro, but when done right, WOW, it’s out of this world and who doesn’t like the quality of Wagyu paired with foie gras? Both are a #MustTry.

If you’re a “Peking Duck” fan you’re gonna flip over Novikov’s simple yet succulent take on it. Served with all the fixings: cucumber, spring onion, sweet sauce and pancakes to wrap it all up in. The “Black Cod Rolls” are a stand-out, too with a great outer texture, think Nabisco Shredded Wheat, that gives way to a rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth middle.

While good Dim Sum can be hard to find in Miami, the “Spicy Prawn Moneybags”💰💰 are changing the game. The dashing little dumplings are perfectly plump and remind me of biting into little clouds of love. I’d list every ingredient, but that’s not Novikov’s way; they leave something to the taste bud imagination. Straight from the restaurant’s Fish Market, I tried the “Portuguese Red Mullet” which was handpicked, battered & fried into delicious bite-sized pieces. I love the concept of choosing what I’m eating and having a say over how it’s prepared.

I didn’t think I could manage dessert until I laid eyes on the “Tropical Ki-iro” (made with passion fruit, white chocolate ice-cream mango, mint and basil.) Holy fabulousness, Batman. My usual flowery adjectives can’t even do it justice. The “Double Chocolate Lava Cake” with sesame crumble, and ginger ice cream was a work of art and in true Miami style, the “Quatro Leches” is a satisfying mainstay.

There are a lot of great places to eat in the Magic City, but if you’re looking for something truly spectacular with exceptional service and amazing food, “Novikov Miami” is waiting for you and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

Novikov Miami inside Met 1
(ground floor)
300 South Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida 33131

When:

Monday – Friday Novikov opens at 12pm
Saturday & Sunday for dinner at 6pm

Be Social:
IG: @novikovmiami
FB: @NovikovMiami
Twitter: @novikovmiami

Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are.Anthelme Brillat-Savarin
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @HotMiamiStyles
jewelry: @LexiJewelry
sneaker wedges: @stevemadden
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Too Pretty To Eat” Auerbach
Friday, August 3, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,