BCBG | Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novecento 900

Novecento 900

What:

Checking out the new brunch menu at Novecento in Aventura — because a leisurely breakfast/lunch is always a good idea.

Why:

Novecento is just one of those places: great food, excellent service and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s definitely one of my go-to places. In fact, I’ve featured them on #Spotlight before and now, there’s yet another reason to love the Miami staple. The Argentinian brasserie-style restaurant is now serving up BRUNCH, my favorite meal of the week. Well, that and Friday night dinner. Hmmm…be still, my heart or in this case — my stomach.

On Saturdays & Sundays in Aventura & seven days a week in Brickell, a portion of Novecento’s menu is now dedicated to dishes like eggs, pancakes, french toast and yummy drinks. Who can say NO to that? #NotMe. Before my laissez-faire meal, I sipped on a sweet & tangerine-tasting drink called: “Mandarin” (made with sparkling wine, Aperol and lemon.) I also tried the “Toronto” (made with sparkling wine, too) but this fresh little number is mixed with Pamplemousse to create a grapefruit flavor.

The first thing on the menu that caught my eye was “Avocado Toast,” mainly because it’s a big food trend right now but also, Novecento manages to jazz up the healthy option by adding fried eggs #OMG. They’re plopped on top of a mouthwatering avocado mash and served with grilled farm-styled bread. While I’m not a huge pancake fan, I’d walk across the Mohave Desert for a plate of Novecento’s bacon version of the dish.

They sprinkle their buttermilk pancakes with candied bacon and drizzle them with infused maple syrup. Yes, it’s as sinful as it sounds. Washing all of those incredible calories down is easy with a drink called: “Malbec” — which happens to be my favorite cocktail on the new Brunch Menu.

The frothy-on-the-top creative concoction is made with sparkling wine, vodka, Malbec wine, pineapple and lemon. It’s #AMAZE and so is the fruity and fizzy homemade sangria called “Tinto De Verano.” More of a “bottom’s up” kind of brunch-er? For $20 dollars you can do bottomless Bloody’s, Mimosas and more.

If you’re a Benedict lover, the Smoked Salmon is a #mustry, made with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce and served on an English Muffin. If you’re more of a luncher, “Ensalada Novecento” (which is listed in the salad portion of the menu) is killer, made with mind-blowing skirt steak, greens, tomatoes, avocado and (wait for it)….FRENCH FRIES. #ComeToMama. The fries are at the base of the plate and everything else is stacked on top. #Revelation

What’s brunch without a sweet ending? My server surprised me with the most amazing “Crepe Dulce De Leche”. #HeavenOnEarth Every single meal I’ve ever had at Novecento has been quality and that’s not a coincidence. The restaurant has been part of the world’s foodie community for more than 25 years and they’re still going strong, always giving their customers what they call a “taste of the new” and introducing brunch is the perfect example, and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things

Where:

Novecento Aventura
18831 Biscayne Boulevard
Aventura, Florida 33180

For more info on Brickell, Key Biscayne and Doral locations visit www.novecento.com

When:

Aventura Weekend Brunch is Saturday & Sunday: 10am-4pm
Brickell Brunch is 7 days a week: 8am-11am

305-466-0900

Be Social:
IG: @900novecento
FB: @Novecento
Twitter: @900Novecento

Brunch without champagne is just a sad breakfast.anonymous

James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @BCBG
jewelry: @handmademiamibeach
clutch: @RiverIsland
shoes: @SteveMadden on Lincoln Road
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Sad Breakfast Is A Great Name For A Band” Auerbach

Friday, September 28, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, James Woodley Photography, Novecento, River Island, Steve Madden

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

What:

A leisurely lunch at Salumeria 104 in Coral Gables, where delicious Italian food is served in a lively trattoria-esque atmosphere.

Why:

I’m not Italian, but that doesn’t stop me from daydreaming about what it would be like to have Mediterranean blood coursing through my veins. When I close my eyes, I imagine a big family, crowded around a spirited table laughing, drinking and eating pasta made from recipes handed down through generations. Hmmm…🍝

Lucky for me, dreams do come true, thanks to Salumeria 104 — a charming new trattoria located in Coral Gables on Miracle Mile. The restaurant, which specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, will make you feel like you’re in “Bel Paese” (a nickname for Italy, meaning “beautiful country”) without ever leaving South Florida.

The restaurant’s inviting personality is a reflection of its Chef & Co-Owner, Angelo Masarin. Not only is he a lovely human being, he eats and breathes his craft, literally. Angelo, who grew up in Treviso, a beautiful city known for its Prosecco, greeted me for my #Spotlight experience with a refreshing glass of Italian cuvee called Ca’ del Bosco Cuvee (which hails from Lombardy.)

Its crisp and fruity nature paired perfectly with the Grande Selezione, a board of four salamis and one prosciutto. Chef Angelo chose my tasting which included Mortadella, Coppa Dolce, Finocchiona, Bresaola and Prosciutto San Daniele. I also tried the Pecorino Toscano from the Cheese Selection. Amazing wine, salami, prosciutto and cheese? I thought I’d died and gone to foodie heaven, but that was just the beginning. #CueTheHarpsPlease

Even though I spent my early years in New Mexico, I also grew up in North Carolina. It took me a long time to lose my southern accent, but one thing I’ve never lost is my love for fried green tomatoes — which is why the Burratina is one of my #FavoriteThings on the menu. Burrata Cheese served on top of a #FriedGreenTomato drizzled with 12 year aged Bonini Balsamic. #Heavenly! Chef paired it with Angelo Poretti #4, a refreshing pale lager from Italy. Yes, the beer shares Chef’s first name, so it has to be good. 🍺

NOW, for my new dead woman walking dish (Lol.) If you’re new to #Spotlight, that’s how I usually describe my latest food obsession. You know — it’s so good, it’s the last thing I’d chow down on before being zapped into oblivion. Hello, “Spaghetti alla Bottarga,” where’ve you been my whole life?

Hmmm.. made with Gragnano Pasta, cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil and cured fish roe (which is called Bottarga on the menu.) Mix together and devour. If you were wondering about Gragnano, it’s an Italian town snuggled between a hill and the Amalfi Coast best known for its dry pasta. I washed it down with a tropical-tasting white wine (Argiolas Costamolino, available by the glass.)

Chef Angelo loves to keep the menu at Salumeria 104 exciting by whipping up daily specials like Tagliolini with summer truffles, which he generously grated right in front of me. He paired the pasta with a well-rounded red (Pecchino San Luigi Dogliani, available by the glass.) Not a pasta person? The Porchetta wrapped in crispy pork belly served with fingerling potatoes and green beans is tender & savory. Chef paired it with a Super Tuscan red (also available by the glass.)

Don’t get too full, though, because their dessert specials are always enticing. I tried the extra-moist Almond Cake and nibbled on the Chocolate Log with nuts called Salame Al Cioccolato. Enhancing the sweet flavors? A nice Piedmont Moscato. The wine selection is so amazing, you can basically find anything to keep your tastebuds happy.

I love the food at Salumeria 104; it’s more than just delicious, it’s quality that you can taste in every bite. And, while that’s reason enough to try it, I think what you’ll really enjoy is how you’ll FEEL when you’re there. Chef Angelo treats every customer as if they’re the only person in the room and you just can’t find service like that anymore — that’s why it’s one of my #FavoriteThings. Saluti!

Where:

Salumeria 104
117 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL. 33134

When:

Monday -Sunday 12-11pm

There’s also a location in Midtown…
Salumeria 104
3451 NE 1st Avenue
Miami, FL. 33137

Monday-Thursday 12-11pm
Friday & Saturday 12pm-12am
Sunday 12-10:30pm

Be Social:
IG: @salumeria104
FB: @Salumeria104
Twitter: @Salumeria104

www.salumeria104.com

In Italy, they add work and life on to food and wine.Robin Leach

James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @BCBG #SouthBeach
clutch: @MarcJacobs
shoes: @SteveMadden #LincolnRoad
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Pork Belly” Auerbach

Thursday, September 13, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Coral Gables, James Woodley Photography, Marc Jacobs, Salumeria 104, Steve Madden

Shireen’s Spotlight: Biella Ristorante

Shireen Sandoval, Shireen's Spotlight, Restaurant, Italian, Food, Food blog, james woodley photography

What:

Drinks & Dinner at a new family-owned gem called “Biella Ristorante” — named after a picturesque town in Northern Italy known for its culinary traditions and delicious wines.

Why:

Chic, glamorous and interesting, “Biella Ristorante” is quickly making a name for itself on the South Florida food scene. The Italian eatery, which has only been open a few short months, proves you don’t have to travel to Italy to taste REAL Italian food.

Snuggled inside a busy strip mall on Sunny Isles Beach, the inside of the restaurant is completely different than the outside. With European wall paper, Italian leather furniture and sophisticated decor, you’re transported into modern luxury. The atmosphere is warm & welcoming and the staff (special shout-out to Hector) is totally on it. They definitely know their stuff.

With an extensive cocktail list, I started my #Spotlight experience at Biella’s Bar, which is decorated in glamorous black & white photos and accented with a plush purple couch. It’s a #SocialMediaPic waiting to happen. Plus, who doesn’t wanna sink into a #PlushPurpleCouch?

If you like Cosmos (think Sex and the City) and Apple-tinis (think tart green apple) you’ll wanna try the “Cosmo Tiny” — a perfect blend of both drinks. It’s topped with apple foam and garnished with a maraschino cherry. I love how the drink is layered with flavors; to get the full effect, you have to take more of a swig than a sip. #BottomsUp

The bite-sized “Crispy Pork Belly” appetizer (which is on the bar menu,) is a must-try, marinated in Italian sweet sauce. If you’re more of a carb lover, “Avocado Crostini” is yummy with charred corn, goat cheese and rainbow trout caviar. Both are pretty healthy, which is always a good thing when you’re saving calories for pizza and pasta. Speaking of…

When it comes to amazing pies, they have great options: Margherita, Prosciutto, Pancetta etc. I went with “Salmone” with homemade Squid Ink Pizza Dough. Don’t let its dark appearance dissuade you, it’s incredibly delicious. Smothered in cream cheese and topped with smoked salmon, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to pizza heaven. (If you’ve never tasted squid ink, it’s rich and briny.)

“Ooh Child,” if you like pasta, you’ve hit the homemade noodle jackpot at Biella. I tried the mushroom ravioli drenched in decadent creamy mushroom sauce topped with fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano. If you need more sustenance, they have steak, lamb chops, chicken and fish on the menu, too. After dinner…

I had three desserts, two creative cocktails (for the girl who likes to drink her calories #me) and one mind-blowing dish called “Apple Torrejas” served with cinnamon ice cream & caramelized apples. It was a pile of ooey-gooey love in my mouth. I’m still daydreaming about the maple butter sauce and fluffy brioche. I slid into #Spotlight home base with the “Almond Joy Martini” topped with coconut foam and YES, it tastes like the candy bar it’s named after. I finished with a palate cleansing “Kiwi Tiny” — made with muddled cucumber and mint kiwi cucumber foam.

I love that Biella Ristorante has spiced-up the food scene on Sunny Isles Beach and best of all, you don’t have to trudge through some gi-normous condo building to find it. Instead, walk right up and enjoy an intimate night of classy cocktails & scrumptious Italian cuisine — that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

Where:

Biella Ristorante
17082 Collins Avenue
Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160

When:

Monday: Friday 5pm-11pm
Saturday: 12pm-11pm
Sunday: 10am-10pm

Reservations: 305-974-0174
www.BiellaRistorante.com

Be Social:
FB: @BiellaRistorante
IG: @biellaristorante

Glamour is back, but with a minimalist touch.Gianni Versace

James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by #BCBG South Beach
www.bcbg.com
clutch: www.victoriassecret.com
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Pork Belly” Auerbach

Thursday, June 21, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Biella Ristorante, dessert, Italian Food, James Woodley Photography, Miami Beach, Pizza

A Day on Española Way

A Day on Espanola Way

A Day on Española Way

What:

Spending the day doing what I do best: shopping, eating, dancing, snoozing and exploring one of Miami Beach’s most iconic streets: Española Way.

Why:

“I can’t think of a better way/to spend the day/than on Española Way.” Especially after its massive multi-million dollar renovation. Sure, it’s always been a popular thoroughfare and yes, it’s always been inspiring, but now, its bustling personality is even bigger and better than before.

The secret ingredient? The street is FINALLY closed to cars, making it pedestrian-only. Now, you can easily stroll down the middle of the road like a boss, fully absorbing everything that makes Española Way so special — the enchanting Mediterranean architecture, lively restaurants, eclectic shops and secret nooks and passageways that lead to beautiful boutique hotels.

The area, originally formed as an artist colony back in the 1920’s, reminds me of my beloved Santa Fe and while it’s not necessarily the Wild West, it does have an outspoken bohemian spirit mixed with a European flair I truly appreciate. It’s a place where everyone fits in — I emphasis this because I’ve noticed Miami’s recent penchant for pigeonholing people & places into categories: artsy, hipster, urban, nouveau riche; the list goes on…(for the record, I hate that and happen to live in an up-&-coming “seedy” area). #Whatevezzzz

In full disclosure, for years I’ve avoided “A Day On Española Way” because of its touristy reputation but now, the area is flourishing with local activities: yoga classes, salsa nights and free monthly events open to the public. My day there was such an amazing experience. I felt transported to another city; another country even. After a leisurely morning of getting reacquainted with the area, I decided to have lunch, too.

Lucky for me, Havana 1957 was eager to host. The Cuban restaurant, which happens to be a South Florida staple, is not only a true reflection of one of Miami’s richest cultures, it’s also a nod to Havana in its heyday and I’ll drink to that! Speaking of…

I’m crazy about their large selection of mouthwatering mojitos. I tried the Strawberry & Classic, but they also have interesting ones like Red Bull & Diet, perfect for the partier who needs a pick-me-up or for those of us constantly watching our waistline. My favorite appetizer is “Tostones Rellenos Havana 1957,” which are heartbreakingly good. You get an assortment of plantain cups stuffed with garlic shrimp, shredded roasted chicken, ropa vieja and ground beef. Sweet baby Jesus, these are #LIFE…

The Signature chicken, served with rice and plantains, is called Pollo Frita A La Cubana. It’s a crispy marinated half-chicken served in a yummy garlic and onion sauce. The pork is amazing, too. Lechon Asado, a slow roasted pork leg with Cuban mojo, is served with moro rice and yuca. If you prefer eating lighter, Havana 1957 also has a nice selection of salads, perfect for a hot summer day. I ended lunch with Guava Cheesecake. It was so good, I dreamed about it later that night. There I was, in a cloud of pillows eating that very dessert, taking gi-normous bites while trying to talk on live TV. LOL. I’m not sure what that was all about…

But I do know, rediscovering a place I’ve always loved is a magical feeling. It’s like reconnecting with an old friend, you know the in’s & out’s of the relationship, but years gone by have made them more textured, interesting and even better — that’s exactly how I feel about “A Day On Española Way” and that’s why it’s one of My Favorite Things.

www.visitespanolaway.com

FB: @OnEspanolaWay
IG: @OnEspanolaWay
Twitter: @OnEspanolaWay

www.havana1957.com FB: @Havana1957Restaurant IG: @havana1957 Twitter: @havana1957miami

An invitation to a beautiful street is an invitation to walk within a dream!Mehmet Murat Ildan

James Woodley Photography
1st look: Black Sundress by @BCBGsouthbeach
Sun Hat by Nordstrom.com
Black Fringe Purse @V73
Boots: oldgringoboots.com
turquoise jewelry from my New Mexico Collection
2nd look: Yellow & White Sundress & Hat Nordstrom.com
Lip clutch www.Chiffino.com
Under The Big Top Heels by Irregularchoice.com
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “NYC 1952” Auerbach

Wednesday, April 11, 2018 Shireen's Favorite Things, Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Chiffino, Española way, Havana 1957, Irregular Choice, James Woodley Photography, Nordstrom, Old Gringo Boots

Shireen’s Spotlight: Racket

What:

Spending the afternoon at one of the chicest new bars in town: Racket. An intriguing double-bar concept from the team behind Foxhole Bar & Drunken Dragon.

Why:

I love a good hang-out, but finding the RIGHT one isn’t always easy. My requirements include: great drinks, interesting food and a hip/chic atmosphere. I’m just not one of those dark bar boozers: I like the light of day, visiting with friends, meeting interesting people and feeling like I’m a part of something special going on in the Magic City.

Enter: Racket — located in the heart of Wynwood.

I hung out there last weekend on a bright, sunny day and its massive open-air windows revealed a beautiful tiki-inspired bar/lounge called Atrium. The plush couches, low wooden stools and interesting art reminded me of something you’d see in a fashion magazine. Just beyond Atrium is Skylit Bar, where the mood is more industrial-meets-modern. When it comes to food & drink, each area has its own niche.

From Atrium, which specializes in tequila, rum and mezcal drinks, I tried the wonderfully whimsical “Pinky & the Bat” (made with Bacardi, St. Germain, fresh fruit and sweet syrup.) It’s as pretty as a picture, definitely an Instagram shot waiting to happen. Make sure you caption it #LivingMyBestLife cuz that popsicle gives it major prowess. The cool & colorful “El Joven” is just as sassy, not to mention refreshing. The mezcal-based cocktail is mixed with sweet Italian wine, watermelon and lime.

As the late Whitney Houston once famously said: “Crack is Whack” and that’s exactly how I’d describe Atrium’s Ahi Tuna Rolls. MAN – they’re fabulously addicting. Instead of a traditional roll, though, the tuna (made with Sriracha aioli) comes on top of a crispy brioche. The little heavenly bites of goodness are topped with caviar. #NeedSomeRightNow #GetInMyBelly And yes, we took a lot of pictures of them. Just call us the Tuna Roll paparazzi. 😹

Grazing is important when enjoying Atrium’s $18 dollar bottomless mimosas & Rose on Sundays and their beautiful Charcuterie spread is the perfect way to do it. Served with fig jam, olive bread, veggies, fruit and meats, you’ll have enough food to get your drink on for the entire day. Cheers to day drinking that extends into evening hours.

From Skylit, which specializes in craft cocktails and local beers, I tried the smokey and delicious “Here’s Johnnie” — made with Johnnie Walker Black, tawny port, blackberry syrup and creme de cassis. This drink, which happened to be my favorite, will definitely grow hair on your chest. That’s what we say back on the ranch when a drink is strong and meaty.

If you wanna feel like a movie star, try “Pine Wood” — a nod to Britain’s Hollywood. Not sure if it’s a coincidence, but it sure tastes like something you’d drink in England, made with bourbon, citrus fruit and Fernet Branca (which is a bitter herby liqueur.) If Bette Davis were still alive, she’d make it a double and call you “Dahhhhling” while puffing on a long, fancy cigarette.

I also tried the “Racket Panini” stacked with prosciutto, goat cheese, pesto and mushed into yummy submission. If you like PB&J, you gotta try their “AB & J” — made with almond butter, blueberry jam, brie cheese and served on brioche bread. It’s that great kind of salty sweet and goes perfect with an adult beverage.

If you like to be entertained while imbibing, you’re in luck. Skylit has a pool table, juke box and tv’s for your sport watching obsession.

I really like the vibe and atmosphere of Racket; the yummy drinks and food are a bonus. Usually Miami hang-out’s have one without the other, but here – it’s both. It’s a fresh take on what Miami’s known for, having a good time in glamorous style and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

Racket
150 NW 24th Street
Miami, Florida 33127

When:

Daily 1 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Happy hour is from 4-to-8pm

Be Social:
IG: @racketwynwood
FB: @racketwynwood
Twitter: @racketwynwood

Don’t be shy, send that 12th unanswered text.Tequila

James Woodley Photography
Wardrobe by @bcbgsouthbeach
Clutch — @candywooleyhandbags
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Dahhhling” Auerbach

Friday, March 16, 2018 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Candy Woolley, James Woodley Photography, Racket, Wynwood

Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: Novecento 900

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Biella Ristorante

A Day on Española Way

Shireen’s Spotlight: Racket

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