Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Scarpetta at Fontainebleau, Miami Beach

A special note: I haven’t posted in awhile due to Hurricane Irma. Getting back to normal has been tough for a lot of us. I hope this note finds you well, in good health and rebuilding or just getting back to normal.

What:

Trying delicious new menu items and drink specials at Scarpetta, one of my favorite restaurants in Miami.

Why:

I didn’t know it at the time, but my dinner at Scarpetta would be one of the last normal things I did before the wrath of Hurricane Irma. Needless to say, it was GLORIOUS: the icy cold cocktails, the exceptionally warm, well-cooked food AND who could forget the orgasmic air-conditioning??!! So cool, so refreshing, so perfect.

One can really gain perspective going through a major storm, but first…

There’s the pre-horror: “OMG, a CAT 5 is barreling this way!” Followed by a week of high-octane preparedness: gas, food, batteries, canned ravioli (because why not, if I’m going to die anyway?) Then you watch (TV), wait (while eyeing the cone of concern) and wonder (about life: what’s important and what’s not.)

When the storm bears down, all my crazy comes out. Especially, the nervous eating. I don’t normally dine on Habanero Cheetos with a side of Bush’s Baked Beans, but if it’s the end, I’m going out with a bang (in more ways than one…) 💩

Anxiety-ridden days are followed by sleepless nights with a relentless soundtrack of howling winds and hissing rain.

But still, there’s something even worse: THE UNKNOWN — which is clouded with fear. Fear of losing everything you own, fear of having to rebuild and finding the strength to actually do it and the fear that things will never be the same, because frankly, they’re usually not.

In-between those serious thoughts, usually, at some point, there’s a loud POP or a quiet click and just like that, your power goes out. It gives one a lot of time to think, appreciate and SWEAT. I went 11 longs days without power and my neighborhood suffered major damage, including the dreaded storm surge.

During it all, I kept thinking about Scarpetta. Not only is it one of Miami’s true hot spots, it reminded me of how lovely things could be when Mother Nature was happy and well-adjusted. At the moment, though, she sucked major… well, you get the idea..

During the storm, my photographer, James and I joked about Scarpetta being our “Last Supper”, so to speak. I’m not complaining. I mean, if you’re gonna have one last meal, it’s more than adequate. In fact, it’s dead-man-walking good.

Before Irma, our “Spotlight” was about highlighting Scarpetta’s new infused drinks like CRAVE (made with watermelon infused vodka, Aperol cranberry, lime and mint) and the EN FUEGO (jalapeno infused tequila, sauvignon blanc, St. Germain, lemon and agave.) I also had a SORRENTO. Even though it’s not a new item, it’s one of my all-time favorites (with oxley gin, house-made lemoncello & basil.)

It was also about how they’re changing up the food menu, too; adding new items, but don’t worry, they still have the classics like Scott Conant’s “SPAGHETTI” made with tomato and basil. And, yes, the “Yellowtail Crudo” — made with ginger oil & pickled red onion — which is one of the best things I’ve ever tasted.

If you love ravioli (and not from a can, like I ate during Irma 😂), “Duck & Foie Gras Ravioli” in marsala reduction is an excellent choice. If you’re more of a meat lover, ”Braised Short Ribs of Beef” served with veggies and squash & kale risotto is a dynamic plate with a solid taste balance. And, if you’re like me, always watching your waistline, “Seared Halibut”, which comes in a leek fondue, is light, succulent and different.

Not to be forgotten, Scarpetta’s dessert menu, which consists of revolving classics alongside new and creative culinary delights. I tried “Coconut Panna Cotta ” (with caramelized pineapple & guava soup) and “Amedeo Chocolate Cake ” (made with blood orange & milk ice cream.) Both were exceptional.

With all that being said, Scarpetta isn’t just one of my favorite things, it’s given me much-needed perspective; reminding me good food isn’t just nourishment, it’s love and art intertwined. ❤️

What’s more, technology isn’t just about air-conditioning, although it’s much appreciated. It’s about evolving our species and giving us a better existence, while expanding and strengthening our own communities. All of this makes the world, or at least mine, a better place. Cheers!

When:

Sunday – Thursday: 6pm-11pm
Friday & Saturday: 6pm-12am

Where:

Scarpetta
Fontainebleau, Miami Beach
4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, Florida 33140

Click here to book a reservation on-line tinyurl.com/y7gawxyd
or call 800-548-8886

Twitter: @ScarpettaMiami
IG: @ScarpettaRestaurants
FB: @FontainebleauMiami

There are some things you can only learn in a storm.anonymous
James Woodley Photography
Wardrobe: www.BCBG.com
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Cone of Concern” Auerbach

Special thanks to Brustman Carrino Public Relations / www.brustmancarrinopr.com

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

Shireen’s Spotlight: Valentino Cucina Italiana

What:

Drinks & Dinner at famed Italian eatery, Valentino Cucina, in Fort Lauderdale; featuring the cuisine of Chef & Owner, Giovanni Rocchio.

Why:

“Valentino’s Cucina” isn’t just chic and sophisticated; the food is simply ART (and lucky for me, it’s the edible kind.) The restaurant is a mix of all the things I love: a cosmopolitan atmosphere, creative cocktails and killer homemade Italian cuisine. I was blown away by my experience there last Friday night.

I arrived after a long work week, which included highlighting the “Sobe Wine & Food Festival” — so I was definitely in need of a break from gargantuan white tents, long lines and finger foods. Just as I sat down…

A glass of bubbly made its way into my hands and Chef Giovanni Rocchio, who’s kind, conversational and a bit of a 70’s movie buff, offered up the most delicious amuse-bouche of lobster ravioli (with hints of corn and leeks). It was nothing short of spectacular.

(Although I would quickly learn when dining at Valentino, “spectacular” is pretty much the norm.)

Before I tried more of Giovanni’s ambitious cuisine (and frankly, some of the best I’ve had in South Florida,) I tasted three easy-on-the-eyes beverages…

“The Gia” (made with citrus vodka, limoncello and prosecco) tasted fresh and bubbly; the “Pink Blazer” (made with tequila, hibiscus syrup and passion fruit puree,) reminded me of red peppers on ice and “Zero Gravity” — which was my favorite of the night — was an interesting mix of bourbon, lemon juice, honey syrup, Earl Grey tea, muddled strawberry & blueberries, fresh salt and ground black pepper. It would sure be easy to lose count when sipping on one of these frothy concoctions. I’m guessing that’s why it’s called “Zero Gravity.”

Each cocktail was fashion-forward and interesting, a nice change of pace in what sometimes feels like an overly-crowded world of sweet Cosmos & Lychee Martinis.

My first appetizer was the creamy “Burrata” with cherry tomatoes, black olives, marinated anchovies, arugula and pine nuts. I’m not big on beets, but wow — the “Beet Agnolotti” w/ aged goat cheese and sesame brittle was divine and the “Foie Gras with Ginger Mascarpone” (and strawberries) was mind-blowing. No doubt, Chef Giovanni is a master at pairing seemingly unrelated flavors.

Before my main course of “Branzino” (served with heirloom beans, artichokes and chili peppers,) I sipped on Valentino’s take on a “Singapore Sling” (imagine drinking an extra juicy black cherry.)

The chef also sent a surprise of “Prawn Langostine Ravioli” (it’s impossible to pick my favorite dish of the evening, but this one is pretty close.)

After a palette-cleansing “Raspberry Sorbet & Sake Yogurt” and a sip or three of a Dirty Martini (don’t judge me; it was Friday night,) three decadent desserts arrived…

“Chocolate Cheesecake,” “Olive Oil Pistachio Mousse Cake,” and “Chocolate Vanilla Truffles”. I’m a sucker for a good cheesecake, add some chocolate and well, it’s the perfect after-dinner treat.

All the desserts were artistically plated and tasted better than they looked, if that’s even remotely possible.

Valentino’s is not only a first class, fine dining experience, its people — who are warm, caring and committed to excellence — are the real secret ingredients that make the restaurant a huge success and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things. Cheers!

Where:

620 S. Federal Highway
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(valet on property)

When:

Monday-Thursday: 6pm-11pm
Friday & Saturday: 6pm-12am
Closed on Sunday
Bar opens at 5pm

www.valentinocucinaitaliana.com
IG: @valentinocucina
FB: @ValentinoCucinaItaliana
Twitter: @ValentinoCucina

reservations: 954-523-5767

There’s nothing more romantic than Italian Food.Elizabeth Cuthbert
James Woodley Photography
Producing & Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe & Purse: @bcbgsouthbeach
Hair: Odett Hernandez & Make-up: Javi Lucero
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Branzino” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

Shireen’s Spotlight: Jack’s Miami

What:

An evening at Jack’s Miami in Edgewater eating delicious homemade Italian food.

Why:

“Jack’s” is the kind of place where everyone knows your name.

Yep, just like “Cheers” but better — because it’s the real deal. The new eatery gives me all kinds of fuzzy feels: it’s intimate, inviting and despite only being open for a little over a month, the food is ah-MAZE-ing.

I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that it’s homemade. Especially the meatballs. Mama Mia! (Said in my best Italian accent.)

If you’re a regular Spotlight reader, you know I lo-o-o-ove me some good Italian food and with “Jack’s,” I’ve definitely struck gravy gold.

One of the restaurants best features? It’s snuggled into a charming old house, which reminds me of the way the world used to be (before high-rises and strip malls.)

And if you like dining outside, you’ll love the quaint patio area. It’s the ideal place to spend a long, leisurely dinner, a first date or a special occasion. I can’t wait to go back just as the sun is setting.

I usually start Spotlight with three signature drinks (for all you lushes out there,) but because Jack’s is so new, they’re still in the process of creating their cocktails. With that being said, their off-the-cuff drinks were dangerously addicting and quite frankly, pretty darn good.

The bartender whipped up a few things from his imagination: “Elder Jam,” “A Day at the Beach” and “The Deco Drive”.

“The Deco Drive” actually didn’t have a name, but after sipping the spicy concoction, I deemed it the spitting image of the show: strong, fiery and occasionally sweet (made with chili flakes, peach tree, tequila and pineapple.) The “Elder Jam” reminded me of a night out in Paris (made with vodka, St. Germaine, Prosecco and topped with a cherry.) Last but not least, “A Day at the Beach”, which totally tasted like a Creamsicle or a frozen Push-Up Popsicle.

I tried three appetizers: “Nonna’s Homemade Meatballs,” “San Gennaro Sausage & Peppers” and “Fire Roasted Red Peppers with Basil.” The meatballs were everything, smothered in Sunday Gravy and served on grilled Tuscan bread.

For my main dish, I devoured the “Braised Short Ribs” (slow-cooked and served over a bed of sautéed veggies with some crazy good mashed potatoes.)

The ribs were so succulent, they practically fell off the bone and melted in my mouth. I don’t know what the secret is to this dish, but if you’re a carnivore, you will NOT be disappointed.

For dessert, I had two of the most decadently creamy homemade Cannolis. Be still my beating heart! It was worth every mouthwatering high-calorie bite.

At “Jack’s” I felt happy and relaxed. It’s unpretentious, but at the same time, it’s classy and cool. And seriously, who doesn’t love homemade meatballs? They’re definitely one of MY favorite things.

When:

Monday-Saturday: 5pm-Midnight
Sunday: 4pm-11pm.
Lunch coming soon
Happy Hour is Monday – Friday 5pm-8pm
Sunday Gravy Happy Hour 4pm-8pm.

Where:

Jack’s is located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Edgewater (just south of Midtown). There’s plenty of street parking, just be sure and feed the meter.

Jack’s Home Cooking
2426 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami, Florida 33137

Reservations: 305-640-5507
Special Event? Call 786-703-6180

IG: @jacksmiami
FB: Jack’s Miami
www.jacksmiami.com

May your life be like good wine; tasty, sharp and clear, and like good wine, may it improve with every passing year.An Italian Blessing
Photography: Life In A Flash (IG: life_in_a_flash)
Photo editing: James Woodley
Styling: Jackie Kay
Grooming: Odett Hernandez
Wardrobe: Filomena Fernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Meatball” Auerbach

Special thanks to Alan Roth

Shireen’s Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

Shireen's Spotlight: Bice Ristorante

What:

Bice Ristorante 313 Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida 33480

Why:

After an incredible day of “Exploring Worth Avenue,” I wasn’t just hungry, I was famished and ready for an adult beverage (or two). Lucky for me, my shopping experience ended right in front of the pathway leading to the yummy and delicious “BICE”…

The place was undeniably charming before I even walked through its doors, with a comfortably-packed outdoor patio area (I entered through the Worth Avenue side) featuring tables draped in flouncy green umbrellas, allowing diners to easily enjoy the beautiful weather.

Lush greenery surrounded the bistro and gorgeous purple flowers dripped lazily off a perfectly placed trellis. Inside, BICE was just as warm and welcoming, with large airy windows drenched in the late afternoon sun. I especially liked its creamy-white decor with accents of gold and smatterings of dark wood.

I started Spotlight with three of their signature martinis: Bella Rosa, BICE and The Underground. If you like sweet, the Bella is for you (made with orange and raspberry vodka, Chambord, cranberry & OJ). My favorite was the BICE. It’s no secret, mama likes a strong drink! (It was made with Tito’s Vodka *marinated* with oranges, limes and cherries with a splash of OJ). My photographer, James, called dibs on the Underground. It’s a man’s kind of cocktail (made with Rye Whiskey, sweet vermouth and Sicilian blood orange liquor).

We tried three amazing appetizers, starting with the Mozzarella Di Bufala Caprese (buffalo mozzarella, vine ripened tomatoes, basil and oregano). My favorite was the incredibly clean and fresh Tartare Di Tonno Con Avocado. I could eat this dish for the rest of my natural-born life (made with tuna tartare, avocado, cucumber relish and soy-mango sauce). The Gamberoni Alla Griglia was almost too pretty to eat, but somehow I managed (made with grilled jumbo shrimp, arugula and hearts of palm).

For dinner, we tried a little bit of everything: fish, meat and pasta. If you’re watching your waistline, the Branzino Alla Griglia Con Salmoriglio (grilled striped bass & sauteed veggies) is perfect. If you’re a carnivore, the Lombata Di Vitello Al Forno Con Salsa Di Funghi (grilled veal chop with marsala & wild mushroom jus and sautéed broccoli rabe) is oh, so, tender and juicy. And finally, my “I’ve died and gone to heaven meal,” the Pappardelle Al Telefono Alla Bice (wide homemade noodles with a tomato cream sauce, fresh mozzarella and basil). This dish is EVERYTHING — or as the kids say on social media these days: “It gives me life.”

For dessert (believe me, I was stuffed, but you can’t go to an Italian restaurant like this one and tell them you’re too full for dessert!) I had three glorious dishes. First up, a plate full of house-made cookies (called Biscotti Misti). Some crunchy cookies and a nice strong coffee is always a great way to end a meal. Their version of Key Lime Pie (called Torta di Lima) is just as fab, made with whipped cream and raspberry sauce. Last, but definitely not least: Tiramisu Alla BICE con Salsa Al Caffe. Translation — lady fingers dipped in espresso coffee, mascarpone cream mousse and cocoa. Also known as FANTASTIC!

What I love about BICE (besides the amazing food) is the fact that everything is well thought-out, meticulously crafted and beautifully plated. Executive Chef Elmer Noel Saravia is a genius at balancing flavors and aesthetics (no easy task).

BICE isn’t just a place to eat, drink and be merry, it’s also a place in which you’ll wanna linger, because the aftertaste is just as good as the experience itself and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

When:

Monday-Sunday 11:30am-10:30pm

For reservations:
www.bice-palmbeach.com
FB:BICE Palm Beach IG: @BicePalm

Life is a combination of magic and pasta.Federico Fellini
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: www.DVF.com
Editor: Matthew “Aftertaste” Auerbach

Produced by Luxury PR Group
http://luxuryprgroup.com
IG: @luxuryprgroup Twitter: @WeAreLuxuryPR FB: Luxury PR Group

(Special thanks to Marianna Dubois & Kristen Noffsinger)

Shireen’s Spotlight: Antica Mare

Shireen's Spotlight: Antica Mare

Shireen's Spotlight: Antica Mare

Shireen's Spotlight: Antica Mare

What:

Antica Mare (Tuscan restaurant & bar + wine shop) 7999 NE Bayshore Court, Miami, Florida 33138

Why:

When I walked into “Antica Mare,” the first thing I said was: “Who knew?” The place has a dazzling location with a direct view of the bay and is snuggled inside a new luxury building on 79th Street. I had no idea it was there…

Even better, it’s right by Channel 7 and the Deco Drive Studios. When I have a dinner break (which is not often), I can actually have a fabulous meal! Speaking of, I started my Spotlight at the bar with something I haven’t had in years, a “Green Apple Martini”… 😋

Don’t judge me. I showed up for my Spotlight way early and the bartender, who gave me his undivided attention, told me to order whatever my heart desired and to be honest, the drink was pretty amazing. Sweet and savory.

Before dinner, I decided to take advantage of the view and sit outside on the restaurant’s large veranda. Oh my — the weather was perfect and so was the wine. My spirited waiter chose a crisp Chardonnay to go with my first appetizer, the unique and tasty “Capesante con Passata di ceci” (seared scallops atop chickpea puree.) This is a MUST-TRY: it’s unusual and delivers a great balance of savory flavors.

Next up, a little red wine and some “Polpette toscane” (classic Tuscan meatballs with tomato sauce). This is the kind of dish everyone will love. I mean, who doesn’t wanna gobble up some meatballs smothered in red sauce? This appetizer is clean, simple and extra delicious.

I tried the Spinach & Ricotta Cheese Ravioli with traditional Tuscan meat sauce for my first main course. I’m not gonna lie, I’m a total pasta freak. I love it and could eat it every single day of my natural born life. This plate was no exception. It was absolutely divine, but… the real star of the show?

The “Carre d’agnello arrosto alla Toscana” (Tuscan Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb seasoned with Sage & Rosemary) was beyond succulent. The plate was served with fresh sautéed veggies and braised lentils. If you’re a meat lover, this is your ticket to mouthwatering heaven.

I didn’t have a lot of room for dessert, but I couldn’t pass on a petite helping of classic Tiramisu (with layers of Marscarpone cream and fresh strawberries). It was the perfect ending to an early Sunday dinner.

So, for right now, Antica Mare is a hidden gem on the bay, but not for long. Its delicious food, along with an amazing view, is why it’s one of my new favorite things and I’m sure it’s next on your radar, too.

Where:

Antica Mare is on 79th Street inside the ShoreCrest Club building right on the bay. It’s just before the bridge if you’re headed East and just after the bridge if you’re headed West. You’ll need to drive behind the building and then around it to get to the restaurant. They have blue and white signs directing you to valet as well as the entrance. Cheers!

When:

Tuesday-Sunday 4pm-11pm

Reservations: www.anticcamare.com
FB: Antica Mare & IG: @anticamare

Happiness is like a butterfly; the more you chase it, the more it will elude you, but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder.Henry David Thoreau
James Woodley Photography
Produced by Jessie Rosario
Styling: Jackie Kay
Rings: www.jacqelinepinto.com
wardrobe: hotmiamistyles.com
Editor: Matthew “Butterfly” Auerbach
special thanks to Brustman Carrino Public Relations