Shireen’s Spotlight: GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

GK Bistronomie

What:

GK Bistronomie, 218 NW 25th Street, Miami, Florida 33127

Why:

When I write my food blog, I always hashtag my social media with #FoodIsLove, but at GK Bistronomie, #FoodIsArt and then some. The Peruvian-style eatery is creative, innovative and frankly, one of the most interesting places I’ve been to in a long time. The food is what Angelina Jolie is to the human race: breathtakingly beautiful, intriguing and sexy.

The restaurant itself has a modern feel mixed with an artsy vibe. Along with an open-air kitchen, there’s also a cool indoor/outdoor bar with an impressive selection of Peruvian Pisco’s (made in house.) Executive Chef Rafael Perez is a true artist, sculpting, mixing and plating food into colorful, decorative, delicious masterpieces. The best part? The restaurant and those who work there aren’t pretentious (no food snobs here.) Instead, they’re friendly, knowledgeable and care about your dining experience.

My “Spotlight” started with my usual drink fest (don’t hate, this is what you guys request when I’m out and about.) “Queen Mayra” (with absolut pear, passion fruit, celery and ylang, ylang,) “Linda Paloma” (pisco infuse with ginger, pear, green tea, orange, fresh squeezed lime, fresh pineapple, indian spices) and “Wynwood Sahumerio” (absolut elyx, star fruit, orange darjeeling and chamomile.)

The Queen was all kinds of fresh yumminess with a very pear-y taste with hints of essential oils. Oh, Linda! was exotic, spicy and smooth; but it was the Sahumerio that I wanted to have a Sunday brunch affair with: along with a cool dry ice presentation and a large square cut ice cube, it had this great fresh, tangy orange taste to it. If I wasn’t working, my play would have been to double down.

I tried three appetizers: “Parmesan” (grouper, parmesano reggiano, lime, chives, aji limo) “Peruvian Seafood” (corvina, octopus, calamari, shrimp, mussels, lime, cilantro, red onion, aji limo, sweet potato and choclo) and “Crab And Avocado” (jumbo lump crab, aji amarillo, papa amarilla, rocoto, caviar.) Each plate was so gorgeous, it was hard to eat; but once I dug in, my guilt wholeheartedly subsided.

The grouper was my favorite. It was smooth, creamy and cheesy (with a nice kick to it.) The Peruvian plate, which was actually a bowl, came with a top: uncapping it gave way to a rich, smokey flavor and who doesn’t love crab mixed with avocado? It was a charming balance of two of my favorite foods.

For my main course, I tried the “Black Grouper” (which is pan seared black grouper, shrimp, octopus, clams, mussels, quinoa and seafood broth.) This plate had amazing texture because of the quinoa, which I think of as more of a health food, but still, it was incredibly yummy with delicate touches of the aforementioned seafood. The broth was magical and not too “soupy.”

Last but not least, the “Nutella Mousse” is what I had for dessert, with the most amazing latte and sugar stick (a spur of-the-moment addition by our wonderful server.) The mousse (made with almonds, dark chocolate, cardamom and coffee meringue,) was decadent and rich. Oh, and that latte!? It was something else! Our waitress told us she had worked at a coffee place (awhile ago) and had mastered her coffee-making skills. Actually, she said: “I was a slave to making lattes.” Whatever she did, she has some mad coffee making skilllz. Hats off to her!

The presentation alone is enough to impress anyone who dines at GK Bistronomie, but mix that with the fact that the food actually tastes amazing and the people who run the place are really cool and you can’t go wrong. At this restaurant, food isn’t just love, #FoodIsArt and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things. Cheers!

Where:

GK Bistronomie is located in the heart of the Wynwood Art District (about a block away from the Wynwood Walls.) The artsy area is slowly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Magic City. From speciality stores to cutting edge restaurants and bars, it’s definitely one of the most impressive and provocative parts of Miami. Street parking is tricky in this area because of the high volume of traffic (more so on the weekends,) but they have a valet right out in front of the restaurant that’s pretty quick and efficient (at least from my experience.)

When:

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

www.gkbistronomie.com
786-477-5151
FB: GK Bistronomie Twitter: @GkbWynwood IG: @gkbwynwood

Try to learn to breathe deeply, really to taste food when you eat, and when you sleep, really to sleep. Try as much as possible to be wholly alive with all of your might, and when you laugh, laugh like hell. And when you get angry, get good and angry. Try to be alive. You will be dead soon enough.Ernest Hemingway
Dress: @HotMiamiStyles Duster: @KoreBoutique Shoes: @alepel_byadrianaPhotographer: James Woodley
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Producer/Blogger: Shireen Sandoval

Friday, November 13, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

The Perfect Purse (featuring V73)

What:

V73, 4218 NE. 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida 33137

Why:

Okay, okay, okay…I lied! V73 doesn’t just have “The Perfect Purse,” it has a lot of them. The chic and sophisticated line, which hails from Venice, Italy (one of the most beautiful cities in the world,) has “The Perfect Purse” for every single facet of your fashionable life. Lucky for us! I mean, come on — have you ever heard a woman say: “I have too, many purses!” Uh, never.

The creator behind these luxurious but affordable bags is Elizabetta Armellin, who studied fine art in Italy. She eventually became a fashion designer for major brands and then, launched her own label in 2011. The rest is, as they say, fashion history.

Elizabetta’s vivacious personality and skilled craftsmanship, specifically as an artist, is breathed into each and every one of her creations. I found out about the line about a year ago, when I started the Spotlight portion of my blog. In fact, V73 was one of my first features. Eventually, though, that part of the blog turned into the fabulous food feature that it is these days and I didn’t get to do a full-blown blog on them until now. I love everything about these purses; the materials, textures, colors, versatility and quality. I’m especially obsessed with their latest Fall/Winter 2016 Apache backpack. You can check it out on my Instagram (@ShireenSandoval).

My second favorite is their IT bag of the season: the “Selva” (shopping bag,) which features wild and whimsical creatures. I adore the parrot, but the cougar is a close second. It’s all kinds of glamourous while being able to carry my computer, phone, make-up and even my shoes inside (don’t worry, my kitchen sink is still intact.) BTW, the hobbling continues in my “Chicks in Kicks” after knee-surgery, but at this point, I’m throwing my heels in “The Perfect Purse” for good measure because I’m finally off crutches.

I looovvveeed spicing things up with the “Ducale Xxs Red Pepper.” Even though it’s petite, it sure packs a powerful fashion punch; with luxurious leather, gold detailing and two versatile handles (the other is a chain shoulder strap.) You can carry this little firecracker like a pocketbook or wear it cross body. It’s so sassy, I can hardly stand it. It also comes in deep blue and black. I think the “Peggy Ottanio” has the same kind of pizzaz, especially with its quilted material, metallic hardware and beautiful blue/greenish color (it comes in grey, too.)

Last, but not least, the holiday’s are upon us and having a purse to carry along for a special night is a must-have for every fashionista. I collect clutches, but more importantly, I collect ones that go with just about anything and the “Stella Black” is the perfect example. I love its effortlessly chic appearance.

Venice is where Elizabetta’s inspiration comes from and 73 is the year she was born and the number of the Atelier (workshop) where she studied fine art. Voila! V73 was created and I love everything about it and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

V73 is located in the Miami Design District and believe-you-me, it’s not just a store, it’s an experience! The picturesque boutique is snuggled into the first level of a charming house, draped with vibrant greenery. The inside is warm, relaxing and feels like you’re in someone’s living room (someone with really good taste.)

Everything has a V73 flare to it: the chandelier, furniture, even the art. I’ve never been to Venice, but I’m pretty sure this is a taste of its sophistication and elegance. The best part? Each purse is lined up against illuminated walls (think a spotlight on each purse) displaying their textures, materials, colors and sizes.

Parking isn’t a problem; next to the house there’s a nice lot with assigned spaces. Also, the store is just a hop, skip and a jump away from one of my favorite lunch spots in Miami, Mandolin Aegean Bistro. Make a day of it; you won’t regret it. Happy Shopping!

When:

Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 11am-5pm

E-shop: www.v73.us
Twitter: @V73Official
Instagram: @v73official FB: @V73

Be sure what you want and be sure about yourself. Fashion is not just beauty, it’s about good attitude. You have to believe in yourself and be strong.Adriana Lima

Photographer: James Woodley
Hair/MUA: Odett Hernandez
Stylist: Jackie Kay

Wardrobe: @HotMiamiStyles www.HotMiamiStyles.com
Scarf: @CarlosMarrero (Marrero Collection)
Shoes: @irregularchoice & @prada

All purses are by V73 and pictured in the following order: Selva-Parrot, Ducale-XxsRed Pepper, Peggy-Ottanio and Stella-Black. Prices available upon request.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: TiramesU

TiramesU

TiramesU

TiramesU

TiramesU

TiramesU

What:

TiramesU, 101 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

Why:

Warm, sophisticated and Hampton-esque, TiramesU is the kind of restaurant that looks like the backdrop of a Nancy Myer movie (think the kitchen scenes in “It’s Complicated.”) Not only is it incredibly easy on the eyes, the food is delightful, interesting and provocative. I especially loved the duck; it was succulent and trimmed in a generous portion of chargrilled kale. I’m still dreaming about it. Before I get ahead of myself, though, let’s start from the beginning…

TiramesU is a Miami Beach staple, opening back in the 80’s on the corner of Ocean Drive and 5th. Eventually, the Italian cuisine eatery relocated to famed-Lincoln Road, serving locals and tourists for almost twenty years. Sometimes, though, change is good and in this case, it’s outstanding. TiramesU has revamped and relocated back to its original location: South of Fifth.

I started my Friday night Spotlight in the restaurant’s bustling bar area, perched-up at a hightop right next to a gigantic picturesque window (perfect for SoBe people watching.) I tried three signature cocktails: “MoonShine Mule” (blackberry infused grappa, ginger beer, lime juice and agave,) “Heart Beet” (pineapple infused vodka, beet, orange and lime) and last but not least, “Claudio’s Sour” (rye, raspberries, egg whites, lemon juice, rosemary and balsamic.)

The Mule was major; strong and layered with flavors. The beet drink was earthy; reminding me of something you’d get at a juice bar, with a little extra zing to it (vodka) and the sour? It was my fave. I’m told it’s named after the bartender. He or she must be fresh, sultry and delicious. It tasted like a sophisticated cosmo (with more depth and pizazz.)

I love it when an appetizer rivals a meal in taste and creativity. Case in point, the “Capesante” (scallop carpaccio with strawberries and almonds.) It was fresh, flavorful and extremely photogenic, but it was the “Polpo” that totally blew me away (mediterranean octopus, potatoes, crispy speck and salsa verde.) It was perfectly tenderized; mixed with savory potatoes, it completely stole my heart. The “Burrata” (made from local cheese, tomatoes and yummy balsamic) was an interesting twist on a classic dish.

For dinner; the aforementioned “Anatra” is a must-have (honey glazed duck breast, apple puree and chargrilled kale.) Hmmm…I’ll definitely be back for more! If duck’s not your thing, there’s the beautifully plated “Salmone” (scottish salmon fillet, red beets and sour cream,) sure to satisfy any fish-lover’s pallet.

And the moment we’ve all been waiting for…DESSERT. I bet you can’t guess what I had at a restaurant named TiramesU? Yep, the absolute mind-blowing “TiramesU Trio,” including strawberry, espresso with chocolate and red pepper and finally, mixed berries. Each flavor was smooth, creamy and decadent. I think the espresso with chocolate and red pepper was my favorite. It was so interesting and the flavors unveiled themselves in layers.

The “Semifreddo” (made with semi-frozen cassata, ricotta cheese, candied fruit and blood orange sauce) was amazing, too. I especially loved its presentation. TiramesU is a gorgeous restaurant with a first class kind-of vibe and the food is just as sophisticated; that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

TiramesU has taken up residence on Miami Beach’s South of Fifth. The neighborhood is the restaurant’s original home and it fits perfectly snuggled in next store to Red Steakhouse. Street parking is always tough on the beach, but there’s a valet front and center, as well as a public lot catty-corner from the front of the restaurant. Cheers!

When:

Sunday-Thursday 6pm-12am, Friday-Saturday 6pm-1am Bar open until 2am.

Reservations: www.tiramesu.com or 305-532-4538
Twitter: @TiramesuSOFl IG: @tiramesusofi FB: TiramesU

I think every woman should own a blowtorch.Julia Child
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
wardrobe: www.HotMiamiStyles.com
IG & Twitter: @HotMiamiStyles
necklace: @jillzaleski bracelet & rings: @lalacouturegirl
Friday, November 6, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , , ,

Chicks in Kicks

Chicks in Kicks
Chicks in Kicks
Chicks in Kicks
Chicks in Kicks Chicks in Kicks Chicks in Kicks Chicks in Kicks Chicks in Kicks

What:

Kruzin, 1602 Washington Street, South Beach 33139

Why:

It’s no big secret; I have a lot of shoes, I see a lot of shoes and I wear a lot of shoes, but when I discovered “Kruzin,” I knew my shoe game would never be the same. The brand is completely awe-inspiring: sexy, sophisticated, fashion-forward, edgy and (wait for it)… COMFORTABLE! Yeah, I said it.

Imagine, looking good and feeling good. Well, personally, I could use me a big ol’ heap of that; especially as of late. A few months ago, I tore my meniscus, promptly had surgery and now, I’m in the thick of physical therapy. It’s been incredibly hard; hobbling and wobbling around for months in what I call my “unattractive, get better soon, shoes.”

For the most part, I’ve completely and unabashedly ignored my gorgeous high heel shoe collection. Sometimes, I can’t even walk into my closet without my vain little fashionista heart breaking. Don’t judge me, I miss my heels and no kind-of flat can ever take care of that… at least, that’s what I used to think.

Lucky for me, a few months ago something magical happened. Designer extraordinaire Alessandra Gold and I decided to collaborate on the latest and greatest trends from her aforementioned uber-chic, sneaker line. Our schedules have both been so crazy, though, it took an act of God to get us in the same place at the same time, but when we FINALLY did, her shoes came “Kruzin” into my life at just the right time. I mean, a girl can only wear her “unattractive, get better soon, shoes” for so long.

Kruzin isn’t just about bold and extravagant designs; originality, comfort and off-the-chart quality is priority. “We are not an athletic company, we are a fashion company,” Alessandra told me during a recent interview for Deco Drive. The designer’s IT kicks of the season? The Chrome Collection; featuring silver and gold materials, peppered with whimsical detailing, giving the shoes texture and personality. Even the shoes mascot, the Daredevil, is a surefire sign you’re wearing something exciting and dynamic.

For the blog, Alessandra didn’t just dress me in her best kicks, she also introduced me to Kruzin’s brand new Capsule Clothing Collection (in collaboration with Designer, Lisu Vega.) It’s a line of dresses, blazers, pants, shirts and skirts that have this amazing high fashion look crossed with skater-girl perfection. Add in Alessandra’s ‘Booster’ (a comfy insert she created to raise you up as if you’re wearing heels) and viola! I’m finally a member of the prestigious group: “Chicks in Kicks.’

Wearing head-to-toe Kruzin made me feel strong, pretty and unique and really, isn’t that what fashion is all about: bringing out self confidence and self expression. While the line continues gracing the feet of celebrities around the planet (as far-reaching as Asia,) its roots are solidly planted right here in the Magic City and that’s definitely why it’s one of my favorite things…not to mention the fact that I’m literally “Kruzin” my way back into fabulous footwear after a crazy knee injury. Hello, Daredevil; goodbye five-inch heels. 😈

Where:

Kruzin has the coolest shop on South Beach, right in between Lincoln Road and 16th Street (making it easy to find.) Because of the natural hustle and bustle of the beach, especially during season, street parking is really tough. The good news? There are three easily accessible parking garages right by the store: one in front, back and catty-corner.

If you make a special trip to the beach to check out the store, make a day of it and walk Lincoln, along with all the great restaurants it has this really amazing retro flea market every other weekend. The next two are November 8th & 22nd. Happy Shopping!

When:

Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm.

www.kruzinfootwear.com
Twitter, Instagram, FB @kruzinfootwear

Just dare with us; let us do something for you that you wouldn’t do for yourself.Alessandra Gold
Photographer: James Woodley
Styling: Alessandra Gold & Jackie Kay
On-site producer: Jackie Kay
Hair & MUA: Odett Hernandez
Wednesday, November 4, 2015 Shireen's Favorite Things , ,

Animal Instincts with Jungle Island

Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island
Animal Instincts with Jungle Island Animal Instincts with Jungle Island

What:

Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, Florida 33132

Why:

I’m obsessed with three things in life: shoes, vodka and flamingos (not necessarily in that order. ) So imagine my delight when I got wind of Jungle Island’s new brainchild: yummy hamburgers and my favorite fabulous pink, feathery friends. The food and flamingo shenanigans are all about highlighting the parks new cafe, Island Burger. The gist: eat food and watch flamingos.

With one of my favorite Deco Drive producers, I hightailed it over to Island Burger (which is right in front of Jungle Island) last week to enjoy an incredibly delicious Cuban Burger (there are 12 mouth-watering beef patties to choose from,) all whilst watching pink flamingos saunter about the park’s lush greenery.

It was nothing short of magical; with beautiful So-Flo winter temperatures, great food and a chance to escape a dark television studio while eating with a good friend. The entire situation gave me a major moment of jungle love (“oh-we oh-we-oh.”) My stop at the ever-so-famous park didn’t end there, though; the park offered me a tour of its featured attractions, allowing me to pair-up my favorite fall fashions with some of its exotic animals.

The flamingos were a no-brainer, fashionably speaking. We wanted to showcase the whimsical side of Florida fashion, which is always on display year around because of our sub tropical temps. Dominique’s Boutique hooked us up with everything pink! Fluffy, frilly and beyond girly was the goal. It’s not everyday a fashionista gets to hang out with her favorite feathery friends. The birds were delicate, dashing and oh-so dainty. They scare easily, so we had to be extra diligent when it came to movement while shooting pictures. The slower, the better. The result: everyone was pretty in pink.

Up next: my new best friend, Manny, the fluffy and friendly Lemur (who hails from Madagascar.) Manny’s rich and beautiful deep dark colors allowed us to really get into the textures of fall. A chic animal print dress, paired with strong accessories and a crocheted beanie cap helped set the mood. Honestly, though, Manny stole the show without even trying. I mean, look at those eyes! Our ode to the jungle outfit was also head-to-toe Dominique Boutique.

Birds of a feather flock together (at least at Jungle Island, they do!) I’ve always loved the beautiful and vivacious colors of tropical birds. Showcasing their vibrancy was easy in a bright green jumper from Hollen & Jen’s Vintage Showroom. It’s actually a piece I collected some time ago, but it’s hard to wear green on television due to the green screen, so instead, I waited for the perfect fashion moment to debut the vintage onesie and well, this seemed to be it. Added bonus: it has sleeves and having a parrot perched on your shoulders is a better experience with a little material under its talons.

Jungle Island is one of my favorite things because it’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature; recharging the mind, body and spirit. Besides, sometimes a fashionista just needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city and it doesn’t get much better than a “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”

Where:

The park is located in the heart of the Magic City; just off the MacArthur Causeway (I-395) in between Downtown Miami and South Beach. Island Burger is conveniently placed at the front of Jungle Island and accessible without entering the park. There’s plenty of parking for both venues; with a roomy garage that validates your ticket if you’re just breezing through to pick-up lunch.

When:

Jungle Island is open 365 days a year! Usual hours are Monday-Sunday 10am-5pm.
Island Burger is open Monday-Friday 11am-3pm & Saturday-Sunday 11am-5pm.

She is pure Alice in Wonderland and her appearance and demeanor are a nicely judged mix of the Red Queen and a Flamingo.Truman Capote

For ticket information check-out www.JungleIsland.com
Twitter, IG & FB: @jungleisland

Wardrobe & accessories provided by Dominique Boutique
www.DominiqueCoralGables.com

Green Jumper courtesy of www.hollenandjenshowroom.com

Editor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Stylist/Field Producer: Jackie Kay
Hair/MUA: Tabitha Rey

Wednesday, October 28, 2015 Shireen's Favorite Things , , , ,