Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Fiola Miami

What:

A white table cloth brunch at the sophisticated & chic #FiolaMiami in Coral Gables “and all that jazz”… dahhhling’🎷🎼

Why:

If I were starring in a modern-day fashionable TV show like, say, “Sex and the City,” #FiolaMiami would be the perfect place to shoot all my chatty girlfriend scenes. The atmosphere is glamorous, the decor gorgeous and the food, well, it’s the #bombdotcom. Actually, that hashtag doesn’t really do Fiola justice. The fine dining establishment is simply #exquisite.

The restaurant, which serves regional Italian cuisine, prides itself on quality, tradition and exceptional attention to detail; which is exactly what I experienced when trying out their Jazz Brunch last Sunday. With live music playing in the background, I was shown to my table, greeted with a delicious glass of bubbly and given a decadent tuna toro amuse-bouche and told to sit back & relax as my foodie experience was chosen for me.

For me, brunch isn’t just about great food, it’s also about a killer cocktail and boy, was I in luck. #Fiola has an amazing Sunday selection. I tried the refreshing House Sangria, which paired perfectly with “Colors Of The Garden Salad” featuring yummy ingredients like apples, pomegranate and La Tur cheese. I also sipped on the Especial made with tequila, Mezcal, Italian liqueur, tea, strawberry, mint and lime. Hmmm… strong enough for a man, pretty enough for a woman. Speaking of pretty….

I was blown away by the artful presentation of the “Bison Tartare”, which was one of my #FavoriteThings on the menu. It comes on a thick cutting board with an egg sunny side up, featuring Japanese mushrooms and a creative display of parmesan cream sauce. #Fiola peppers most of its plates with lovely edible flowers which are on full display in both the salad and tartare — they also use fresh local ingredients whenever possible.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll wanna build your own crudo tower from the Isola part of the menu. I tried three Amalfi Coast raw bar items, including sea urchin with prosecco zabaglione, sea salted wild hamachi and pickled Japanese Maidi. I crave any type of raw fish, especially when soused in light oil and lemon, but WOW, dipping into that urchin with flat bread was #LIFE. My tastebuds are officially spoiled.

Hello, pasta… the “Lobster Ravioli” with ginger and chives & “Beef Short Rib Agnolotti” with beech mushrooms, braised beef sauce and toasted hazelnuts will indulge even the most undeniable carb addict or you can go full-on brunch professional with the “XXL Lemon Ricotta Pancake” with berries, key lime mascarpone and fancy syrup aged in bourbon barrels. Ending my tasty afternoon…

A meringue dessert similar to a deconstructed Australian Pavlova, but it was the Chocolate Marchesi (think ganache) with a sort-of whipped Sicilian Pistachio mousse that was decadent and truly delicious #BeStillMyBeatingHeart. Topping it all off, a soothing specialty tea which was indeed, the #BeesKnees.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from #FiolaMiami, but it definitely lives up to its Michelin Star reputation. The food is ART in motion, capturing a symphony of magical flavors and whether it’s Sunday Jazz Brunch, a leisurely lunch or a decadent dinner, #FiolaMiami is upping the food game in The Magic City by an astronomical number and that’s why it’s one of my #FavoriteThings.

Where:

Fiola Miami
1500 San Ignacio Avenue
Coral Gables, Florida 33146

When:

Jazz Bruch 11:30am-2:30pm
For more info on brunch, lunch & dinner www.fiolamiami.com

Be Social:
IG: @fiolamiami
FB: @fiolamiami
Twitter: @FiolaMiami

There comes a time in every woman’s life when the only thing that helps is a glass of champagne.Bette Davis
James Woodley Photography
two-piece forest green suede outfit by BCBG South Beach
black heels: @kendallandkylie
purse: @v73official
jewelry: @anntaylor
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Crudo” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

 

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

Shireen’s Spotlight: Zucca

What:

A beautiful brunch at Zucca in Coral Gables, where the elegant atmosphere can only be upstaged by the mind-blowing Pumpkin Ravioli. #ComeToMama I didn’t even know I liked “Ravioli Di Zucca Burro Salvia.” Don’t I sound fancy? 🥂

Why:

If you’re a professional brunch-er, you probably already know about Zucca; but if you just dabble in the game, this place NEEDS to be on your radar. The chic Italian eatery, snuggled inside the historic ivy-drenched Hotel St. Michel, offers the most incredible brunch buffet.

I know what you’re thinking: “a buffet?” I’m right there with you, but this isn’t just any kind of food round-up, it’s fresh, sophisticated and first class. In fact, you’ll have a hard time choosing between the mouthwatering Italian antipasti, homemade focaccia, yummy salads and decadent pastas, not to mention all the breakfast food. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, go a la carte or try a little bit of everything; which is kind of the point. By the way…

Brunch comes with a complimentary adult beverage. You can choose between mimosa, Bellini or Prosecco. I started my #Spotlight experience with a glass of Italian cuvée called “Ca’ del Bosco.” It’s one of my favorites. If you prefer craft cocktails, they have some creative ones, like “Take It Peachy” (which is dry gin white peach juice, lemongrass, lemon juice, orange bitter and Prosecco) or how about a “Venetian Bloody Mary” (made with grappa, yucca, bloody mary mix and tomato juice.) I was in it to win it food-wise, so I stuck with the bubbly…

And fawned over dishes like the amazing “Vitelli Tonnato,” thinly-sliced veal tenderloin over tuna emulsion with capers and greens. It’s a #MustTry and one of their most popular items on the menu. The “Bresaola Di Manzo” was spectacular, too, with arugula and shaved parmesan and both versions of the Burrata (tartine & salad) were total cheese-y heaven.

Zucca makes quite the impressive Antipasto Platter with Salumi, Prosciutto, cold marinated veggies, parmesan cheese and olives. Save some room for risotto, because they always have a special of the day. I tried the “Shrimp Risotto” with cherry tomatoes and asparagus, but it was the “Ravioli Di Zucca Burro Salvia” that really knocked my socks off.

One bite of their homemade ravioli stuffed with pumpkin (sautéed in light butter sauce and sage) and you’ll think you’ve died and gone to #foodieheaven. It’s officially my new “dead woman walking” dish. I can’t wait to go back and have some more. All the aforementioned plates are featured on the buffet; there’s also lasagna, Porchetta, Roast Beef and Prime Rib. Are you drooling yet? If not, the dessert table should do the trick, packed with every kind of Italian pastry and sweet treat you can imagine: tiramisu, ricotta cheesecake, creme brûlée, panna cotta and more. Decisions, decisions, decisions and if you can’t tell, I had a hard time making one. 😂

Brunch ended with Zucca’s glorious homemade Limoncello. I’m kind of a liquor snob, but this aperitif doesn’t disappoint. Not only is the food world-class, the service is excellent, too, and don’t mistake sophistication for snobbery. Everyone at Zucca is incredibly warm and friendly and you can tell they totally love what they do and that’s why it’s one of my #FavoriteThings. Happy Brunching!

Where:

Zucca
162 Alcazar Avenue
Coral Gables, Florida 33134

When:

Lunch 11am-5pm
Dinner Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-11pm, Sunday-Monday 5pm-10pm
Brunch is Sunday 11am-4pm
Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 5pm-8pm

Be Social
IG: @zuccamiami
FB: @zuccamiami
Twitter: @HotelSt.Michel

reservations: 786-580-3731
Brunch is $52 for adults & $28 for the little ones
www.hotlestmichel.com

Brunch is not a meal. Brunch is a competition. And I’m winning.Matt Bellasai
James Woodley Photography
dress: @touchdolls
www.touchdolls.com
sunnies: @finomeyewear
boots: @bcbg South Beach
vintage purse from my own collection
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “There’a A Zucca Born Every Minute” Auerbach

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

Party Pizzazz

What:

Gearing up for the glitz and glamour of the holiday season with dresses & accessories by Dominque Boutique in Coral Gables. Oh, and did I mention I’m headed to The Keys for the ultimate girls trip?

Why:

By the time you read this, I’ll be barreling toward Key West with three of my closest friends. Each are besties from different decades of my life and strangely, they’ve never met one another. God help us! Lol. It’s going to be “Thelma & Louise” on crack.

Who needs to drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon, though, when you have places like Aqua Night Club, famous for its cabaret Drag shows! Or Louie’s Backyard, where a decadent martini can only be upstaged by a spectacular Key West sunset. I’ve even seen “people” skinny dip right by Louie’s popular pier-inspired porch.

If I’m arrested, it probably wasn’t my fault (wink, wink.) Seriously, though, it’s a trip I’ve been looking forward to for a really long time. It’s such a rarity, I’ve bequeathed it the title: “Rock Star Weekend.” Eating, drinking, shopping, laughing, reminiscing. I’ll be in full beast mode and my best friends will be right there with me. So, what does any of this have to do with holiday fashion? Everything, nothing and something.

I’ve actually been struggling with a meaningful topic to share during “the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” but then it dawned on me, the very essence of my girlie getaway is the perfect way to explain how many of us long to feel during Hanukkah, Christmas & on New Years Eve, and I’m not talking about bloated, tipsy and anxiety-ridden because you’ve spent too much on your credit card. I’m not judging #BeenThereDoneThat

I’m talking about human connection which, in turn, can make a person feel special. I’ve been to the Florida Keys more times than I can possibly count, lucky me, but each trip is marked with the memories of whom I shared it with and how it made me feel at the time. Whether it was friendship, love, intimacy or heartbreak, they’re all an indelible part of who I am now.

The same holds true for “Party Pizzazz”. It may sound corny, but a gorgeous gown, sparkly jewels, a pretty purse and sexy shoes are a form of self-expression: how you’re feeling, what you’re projecting and what you’re hoping to get in return. Don’t get me wrong, I know worldly things don’t solve problems or buy self- esteem, but showcasing the best of what you got for a special occasion can be a powerful thing and ultimately, it’s about connection.

Whether you’re dressing up for yourself, a lover or to relish the holiday spirit, it’s about opening ourselves up to what most of us long for — feeling special — if only for a moment, in our own little slice of this gi-normous, sometimes isolating, world. When I look my best, I feel my best and I think that’s just part of being human. Maybe I’m vain, but I’d like to think I’m just being transparent.

When I was a young journalist, l used to go through severe bouts of depression. The long hours, working holidays, being away from my family, it really got to me. When I’d call home to be consoled, my mother would bark: “Get out of bed, wash your face, put some lipstick on and do something.” It was tough love, but it was also my mom’s way of telling me when you look half-way decent, you’re more likely to feel better about yourself and if you go out and connect with someone, make friends, meet a special someone or heck, go for a walk in the park, you’ll probably be a more fulfilled person who sees the special qualities life has to offer.

Speaking of special, it’s easy to feel that way at Dominque Boutique in Coral Gables. It’s been a secret fashion weapon of mine for years, especially around the holidays. When it comes to “Party Pizzazz” there’s no other place in Miami that offers such beautiful, unique, one-of-a-kind dresses and that’s not all: it’s literally one-stop shopping.

You can build an entire outfit there with ease; they have jewelry, purses, gloves, evening shrugs, hats and more. It’s perfect for a girl on the go or a woman who has a lot demands on her life, but still wants something incredibly jaw-dropping. And, if you’re lucky enough while you’re there, you’ll meet Dominque herself. She’s an inspiring fashionista who oozes class and sophistication, so it’s no surprise her store is a direct reflection of her fabulousness.

Whatever you’re wearing this holiday season, I hope your “Party Pizzazz” is accessorized with whatever your heart is longing for: love, peace, family, forgiveness, healing energy, health or just a moment of complete and utter happiness. I know this week I’ll be lucky enough to feel so many of those things with my closest friends and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. #KeyWestOrBust #HappyHolidays 🎄

Where:

Dominique Boutique
247 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, Florida 33134

When:

Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm
www.dominiquecoralgables.com

Be Social
IG: @dominiqueboutique
FB: @dominquecoralgables
Twitter: @dominiqueok

Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.anonymous
James Woodley Photography
Gowns, Purses and Jewelry provided by Dominique Boutique
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Bloated, Tipsy & Anxiety-Ridden” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

Shireen’s Spotlight: Salumeria 104

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

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