Hollen & Jen | Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: The District Miami

Shireen's Spotlight: The District Miami

What:

The District Miami, 190 NE 46th Street, Miami, Florida 33137

Why:

With sultry amber lighting, beautiful contemporary artwork and interesting Pan-American cuisine, The District Miami is one of the most sophisticated restaurants the Magic City has to offer. From the moment I walked in the door, I felt cozy, comfortable and connected. Feeling at home…

I bee-lined it to the bar: its exposed brick and stucco-colored wood walls made it incredibly warm and inviting. Because I went on a “Frid-Yay,” I was itching to start the weekend off right, which for me means something strong and something spicy. The El Limo (with tequila, grapefruit pure, lime and aji limo) definitely did the trick. It went down super-fast and super-easy.

While waiting for another round, the bar served up a plate of mini Lobster Tacos (with aji amarillo, escabeche, pickled cabbage and crispy shallots.) It may have been a small portion, but it was BIG on flavor; I loved it. Matter-of-fact, I didn’t think things could get any better, until I wrapped my hands around the Buenavista Basil Julep (with whiskey, bruised basil, lime and honey syrup.) This bold and beautiful drink, served with a mini mountain of crushed ice, is a definite must-try.

Actually, most drinks at The District Miami are worth trying because of their fabulous Monday through Friday Happy Hour. With half price drinks and affordable menu items, you get quantity and quality. If I can’t get there during the week, though, I really like their affordable bottomless mimosa weekend brunch special (for more info, see the *When” part of the blog.)

I started the sit-down part of my meal with the Colorado Lamb Tartare appetizer (with toasted pine nuts, mustard oil, shallots, capers and a quail egg.) Honestly, I’m not a big raw meat fan, but I would definitely eat this again. The taste was fresh, rich and wonderful. I washed it down with The District Passion (with light rum, passion fruit puree, muddled raspberries, lime juice and aji amarillo.) This drink was freaking fan-tab-u-lous! It’s sweet, tangy and spicy all at once! Mmmmm…

For dinner, I tasted three dishes all while sipping on the yummiest Lycheetini (made with vodka, lychee puree, fresh watermelon, St. Germain, lime and mint.) The Lamb Duo which, by the way, was my absolute favorite, totally knocked my socks off. It was beautifully plated, had a generous portion and was unbelievably succulent (made with smoked pomegranate BBQ lamb ribs, pickled purple cabbage, a grilled half lamb rack, sweet potato puree and butternut pumpkin salad.)

The Branzino (with malanga foundue, artichoke escabeche and clam mojo) reminded me of a Scandinavian dish: clean and creamy. The Caribbean Cobia (with Caribbean-jerk adobo rub, blue potato goat cheese mash and hearts of palm escabeche) was a spirited spicy dish with amazing mash! I’d never had taters look so blue and taste even better. Just when I thought I couldn’t eat anymore…

Out came the most amazing gooey concoction. I whispered “hello lover” to the 4-Leches Parfait (with macadamia nuts, vanilla caramelized pineapples and Italian merengue.) I sucked it down like I had never eaten before. Last but definitely not least, came the sinful and sexy Black Magic (with semi-sweet chocolate mousse, homemade marshmallows, chocolate ganache, sweet potato vanilla bean drizzle, sweet potato vanilla bean drizzle, pistachio cookie and vanilla ice cream.) Okay, I can die now.

Where:

The District Miami is located on the outskirts of Miami’s Design District in the Buena Vista neighborhood. The restaurant actually used to be a house, but was remodeled and restored into this beautiful eatery. With that being said: its location has limited parking, because you’re basically surrounded by other houses. The good news, though: they provide a very affordable and efficient valet.

When:

First things first, Happy Hour! Monday-Friday 5pm-7pm with a fun bar menu featuring $5 to $7 dollar dishes and HALF OFF all cocktails. The District Miami also hosts “Wine Down Wednesdays” with 1/2 off wine bottles under $100 bucks.

Dinner is Sunday-Thursday 5pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 5pm-12pm. Brunch is amazing, too! I love their $14 dollar bottomless mimosas on Saturday & Sunday from 10am-4:30pm. Lunch is Monday-Friday 12pm-4:30pm.

Reservations: www.TheDistrictMiami.com
Twitter: @DistrictMiami
IG: @TheDistrictMiami
FB: The District Miami

It’s absolutely unfair for women to say that guys only want one thing: sex. We also want food.Jarod Kintz

Shirt: Koko & Palenki
Belt: @KoreBoutique (Instagram)
Vintage St. John pants: Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
Shoes: BCBG
Purse: JustFab

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Writer: Shireen Sandoval
Photographer: James Woodley

Specials thanks: TARA Ink. Public Relations

Friday, May 8, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight BCBG, Happy Hour, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, JustFab, Koko & Palenki, Kore Boutique, Pan-American, Restaurant, The District Miami

The Naked Truth

My dad always says The Florida Keys is a place where you go to forget or to be forgotten. I never really believed him until last week, when I found myself barreling toward the southernmost point of the country trying to forget about what was happening to me back in Miami.

A mere twenty-four hours prior to my trip, I had spent a long, emotional day at Mount Sinai Hospital in Miami Beach, where I had undergone a series of appointments and tests to see if a mass found in my left breast was cancer.

The area in question, which happened to be the exact same breast and location in which both my grandmother and great grandmother had developed cancer, was detected during a routine mammogram and sonogram that had been performed a few weeks earlier. (I wrote about the experience extensively in my “Reinvention: The Rusted Jalopy” blog.)

Waiting for my test results wasn’t just painstaking, it was borderline suffocating. So instead of watching the clock drip by (it would take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours to hear back from my doctor,) I decided to skip town and rendezvous with my parents somewhere down in The Florida Keys. Coincidentally, they were already in town, visiting me from New Mexico.

Unfortunately, no matter how many miles I put between me and Mount Sinai, it didn’t give me the distance I truly needed from the thought of living my life with cancer or dying from it. God, how I hated the C word. Even worse, when I let my mind wander, there I was in the hospital all over again: laying face down, half naked and freezing, inside a gigantic MRI machine with my breasts wedged apart, hanging in a suspended position.

The experience wasn’t just uncomfortable: for whatever reason, I felt ashamed and embarrassed. Mainly because my body was failing me – yet again. After a long battle with Guillain-Barre’ Syndrome, the likelihood of me getting cancer just didn’t seem plausible, but there I was getting poked and prodded, in hopes of finding out “The Naked Truth” about what was really going on inside my body.

During the procedure, the tears came quickly and easily. They dripped straight out of my eyes onto the belly of the imaging contraption. Crying when you’re upside down is an odd feeling. Then again, at that moment everything seemed pretty odd, although I didn’t say as much to the technician performing the MRI.

She had been incredibly impressed with my fortitude when she stuck me with a needle and I didn’t flinch. “Wow, that’s a painful area. You didn’t even blink,” she mused before starting my IV that would be used to pump contrast through my veins. Apparently, contrast helps light up the tentacles of cancer when photographed.

My first instinct was to brag to the technician about my superior mind control when it came to needles, but instead, I smiled weakly and remembered the endless days, nights and weeks of Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG,) the live-saving medicine that helped me recover from GBS.

During that time, the needles and ports became second nature. Without mincing words, I grew a helluva backbone. My veins became so damaged and weak, it was almost impossible to hit one. To ensure I received my “liquid gold,” as I used to call it, I would guide the nurse’s needle under my own skin, until it made contact with a decent vein…

One that would be able to sustain a six hour infusion. I’ll never forget the way the medicine burned when it hit my vein and how it smelled when it entered my body. I’ll also never forget how the procedure itself would clear a room. No one could watch it, not my friends or the people taking care of me. I don’t blame them: it was excruciating, but I never wavered, not once, because I had NO other choice. It was all about survival and I did what I had to do.

Just like when I let the technician choose a painful area on my arm to hit my vein. She could have chosen another place, but she knew that particular area was more than likely a sure thing. She just didn’t know that I knew it, too. She also didn’t know that it was the vein I had nicknamed “Lady Luck” during my GBS days.

Read the rest of the story at www.WSVN.com or to shop the looks see the credits below.

Nude wardrobe pieces provided by www.kokopalenki.com
Twitter: @KokoPalenki
IG: @kokopalenki
FB: Koko & Palenki

Black dress provided by www.hollenandjen.com
Twitter: @HollenandJen
IG: @hollenandjen
FB: Hollen & Jen Showroom Vintage Store

Twitter: @ShireenSandoval
IG: @ShireenSandoval
ssandoval@wsvn.com
www.shireensandoval.com

Photographer: James Woodley
Twitter: @BritFloridian
IG: @BritFloridian
www.James-Woodley.com

Hair & Make-up: Odette Hernandez
Twitter: @Odettehernandz
IG: @O.D.E.T.T

Styling & Assist: Jackie Kay
Blog ideas: jackie211@yahoo.com

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
MattAuerbach@yahoo.com

Wednesday, April 22, 2015 Shireen's Favorite Things Florida Keys, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Koko & Palenki, Travel

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bagatelle Miami

Shireen's Spotlight: Bagatelle Miami

What:

Bagatelle, 2000 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139

Why:

If you yearn for yumminess on every level, lean close and let me tell you a secret: Bagatelle Miami is THE place to be. It’s one of the hottest spots in the Magic City right now. What’s more, it’s mastered the perfect going-out-to-eat-and-having-an-amazing-time recipe. On any given night of the week, the fabulous new French Mediterranean restaurant not only serves up fantastic food in a killer club-like atmosphere, it also hosts some of the most beautiful people in the city.

I went on a Friday night and the place was off the chain with captivating energy and eye candy (both men and women.) The staff was amazing and boy, do they love to feed a journalist! Everyone who works there (at least, the people I came in contact with) really believes in the food and as you know, that can go a long way. Plus, they’re incredibly accommodating and the service is immaculate. That’s not always the case on South Beach.

I started dinner with several fun cocktails. Although the “Sangria Bagatelle Rose” was my favorite, I also fell in cheeky love with the “Girl From Lima,” “Berry Lust” and the quirky, but surprisingly refreshing “Bootie Call” (made with Belvedere Vodka, rosemary, fresh watermelon, elderflower and lemon juice.)

Next up; some mind-blowingly fresh appetizers: “Salade de Crabe aux Agrumes” (crab salad,) “Tartare de Thon Bagatelle” (tuna tartare) and my all-time favorite, “Tatin de Tomate” (tomato fondue tart, goat cheese, olives, onions, pine nuts and basil oil.) I was impressed by how everything was plated, but perhaps more awe-inspiring was the freshness/lightness of it all. All three plates were succulent and satisfying. It was by far my favorite part of the meal.

For the main course, I dined on Snapper de Floride en Papillote (cedar-wrapped Florida red snapper filet, quinoa tabouleh, avocado and a tropical sauce.) It came with a side of Pommes Frites, Wild Mixed Mushrooms and Spicy Charred Broccolini. The fries were sinful, the mushrooms totally divine and the broccolini was charred to perfection.

If you’re a regular blog reader, you know how I feel about dessert: I can take it or leave it, but at Bagatelle Miami, they don’t let you leave anything behind, especially the sweet stuff. I caved when I saw the three divine dishes they encouraged me to eat: Panna Cotta Ricotta, Cheesecake Napoleon and Banana Cream Tart. The cheesecake was amaze-balls! Come to think of it, everything I dined on was amaze-balls. Bagatelle Miami is definitely one of my favorite things.

Where:

The lively restaurant is on the corner of 21st and Collins on South Beach. It’s just a block south of the W Hotel (one of my all-time favorite properties on the beach) which, by the way, has a big public parking lot right in front of it. You can try to score a parking space there (it’s metered) or settle for Bagatelle’s valet.

When:

Mon-Thurs 6pm-12am, Fri-Sat 6pm-1am, Sunday Brunch 6pm-11pm, Sunday Dinner 12pm-6pm.

www.bistrobagatelle.com
Reservations: 305-704-3900
Executive Chef: Matthieu Godard
IG: @BagatelleMiamiBeach
FB: Bagatelle Miami Beach

Part of the secret of success in life is to eat what you like.Mark Twain

Black Jumper: Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
Butterfly Earrings: Magenta Couture
Purse: Tory Burch by Koko & Palenki
Shoes: BCBG Aventura Mall

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Writer: Shireen Sandoval
Photographer: James Woodley

Friday, April 10, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight Bagatelle Miami Beach, BCBG, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Koko & Palenki, Magenta Couture, Miami Beach, Restaurant, Tory Burch

Shireen’s Spotlight: G&B Oyster Bar (connected to Coconuts)

Shireen's Spotlight: G&B Oyster Bar

What:

G&B Oyster Bar, 429 Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316

Why:

Two words for you: “Deadliest Puppies.” Don’t call PETA — these are crab claws, dipped in hush puppy batter and fried. Thank you Lord, sweet baby Jesus! They’re quite possibly one of the best things I’ve ever put in my mouth and I’ll definitely be back for more and then some. The funny thing is…

I actually ended up at the sleek and charming “G&B Oyster Bar” by mistake. I was headed to Coconuts (its sister property in the same location,) by way of the Bonnet House (where I was working on my “Shireen’s Favorite Things” fashion blog.) The volunteers at the museum recommended the place highly. Plus, it has a great intracoastal waterfront view.

Instead of waiting for a seat at Coconuts, though, I was immediately attracted to “G&B”‘s lively bar. Especially after a friendly bartender made me a deliciously spicy Bloody Mary. From there, my crew and I snuggled into a comfy hightop and that’s when we were informed the Bar was a separate place. It didn’t matter; we were so ready to get our grub on after a hard day’s work and boy, did we ever!

Stand-out menu items include: The Philly Lobster Cheese Steak, Lobster Ceviche Martini, Crab Empanadas, Dark and Stormy Ribs and Ahi Tuna Poke. Because “G&B” is indeed a fresh seafood bar, I decided to order half a dozen oysters on the half shell. They were yummy and more importantly, fresh. I would have ended with a dessert, but I had so much to eat, I had to limp out of the restaurant.

Despite its great food, what I enjoyed most about “G&B”‘s is its motto, which is: Be Nice. Even though it’s not something you can order and eat off the menu, a server’s attitude can really make or break your dining experience and ours was amazing.

Where:

“G&B” is located right off of Fort Lauderdale’s popular Seabreeze Boulevard, which partially runs alongside the ocean. It’s connected to its sister restaurant, “Coconuts,” another popular seaside eatery right next to the Swimming Hall of Fame.

They have a really crowded, kind-of crazy valet, but they’re friendly and always willing to make it work. I went this past Saturday (during spring break) and despite the madness, they found me and my Spotlight crew a spot. Valet is tip only, but if you leave the property, they charge twenty bucks.

When:

Monday-Sunday 11:30am-10pm, Sunday Brunch 10am-1pm.

www.gandboysterbar.com
IG: @GB_OysterBar
FB: G&B Oyster Bar Seafood Restaurant

There is nothing more beautiful than the way the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shore line, no matter how many times it is sent away.anonymous

Dress: Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
Jewelry: Serendipity Consignment
Purse: Tookata People
Shoes: Emilio Pucci

Editor Matthew Auerbach
Writer: Shireen Sandoval
Photographer: James Woodley

Friday, March 27, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight Coconuts, Emilio Pucci, Fort Lauderdale, G&B Oyster Bar, Hollen & Jen, James Woodley Photography, Restaurant, Seafood, Serendipity Consignment Boutique, Tookata People, Waterview

Shireen’s Spotlight: Via Verdi Cucina Rustica

Shireen's Spotlight: Via Verdi Cucina Rustica

What:

Via Verdi 6900 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33138

Why:

I immediately fell in love with this rustically romantic new hot spot, with it’s sprawling outdoor patio, ivy covered trellises and charming indoor seating. Not only does Via Verdi have a really great vibe, it has amazing food, too. Which has everything to do with its owners; twin chef brothers, Nicola and Fabrizio Carro and mixologist extraordinaire, Cristiano Vezzoli.

The three Italian-born, fun-loving guys have years of restaurant experience between them and you can totally tell. Upon my arrival, my wish was their command. They want everyone to be happy and enjoy their dining experience. First, I was served a drink called “Caipiwi 69” and yes, it blew my mind. With fresh kiwi, lime, sugar and champagne, I couldn’t stop sipping. Thankfully, there was an “I wanna taste it, too” intervention. Next, a martini called “Bitter,” but how could you be mad at something with aperol, campari, bitters, orange juice and a splash of gin?

While the drinks were tasty, the food was nothing short of mesmerizing. I started with a yummy assaggi platter with fresh cheese, smoked prosciutto, salami and mascarpone/gorgonzola mousse. I really hit my stride, though, with the “Brazino Al Forno” (roasted sea bass with clams, olives, cherry tomatoes and capers.) It was so succulent, clean and fresh, I became an official Via Verdi convert. As if that didn’t do the trick, they served me up some of their amazing Strozzapreti. The lamb ragu, with fresh peas and pecorino flakes is to DIE FOR (all pictured in the blog.) If it was a boy, I would have asked him to marry me.

If you long for romance, go to Via Verdi at night; the twinkling lights surrounding the restaurant give it a Nancy Myers movie set-like atmosphere. If you wanna dine during the day, the patio (draped with fresh greenery) will give you just the right amount of shade to make your day. Monday is a great night to go; they offer 50% off selected plates from their “All Day Menu.”

Where:

Via Verdi is in what’s considered Miami’s Upper East Side off of Biscayne Boulevard and 69th street (east of Little Haiti.) My crew and I giggled with glee when we saw the restaurant’s free parking sign. There’s a parking lot in the back of the building with plenty of spaces to spare (and I went on a Friday night.)

When:

Sunday-Thursday 11am-11pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-12pm

www.viaverdimiami.com
Twitter: @ViaVerdiMiami
IG: @ViaVerdiMiami
FB: Via Verdi Italian Restaurant
Reservations: 786-615-2870 or online

Age and glasses of wine should never be counted.Italian Proverb

Vintage Dress: Hollen & Jen Vintage Showroom
Shoes: Miu Miu
Jewelry: Jill Zaleski – One of a Kind Jewelry

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Writer: Shireen Sandoval

Friday, March 13, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight Champagne, Hollen & Jen, Italian, Italian Food, James Woodley Photography, Jill Zaleski, Martini, Miu Miu, Outdoor, Restaurant, Romantic, Via Verde Cucina Rustica

Shireen's Favorite Things

Shireen’s Spotlight: The District Miami

The Naked Truth

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bagatelle Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: G&B Oyster Bar (connected to Coconuts)

Shireen’s Spotlight: Via Verdi Cucina Rustica

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