Shireen’s Spotlight: Barton G. The Restaurant

Barton G

Barton G

Barton G

Barton G

What:

Barton G. 1427 West Ave. Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

Why:

At Barton G. not only is “presentation everything,” it’s also about how you feel and at this South Beach eatery, they want you to feel great and have fun. It’s been awhile since I’ve been to this Miami staple, but when I went last week (to check-out some of their new menu items,) I remembered why I loved the place so much.

People were smiling, laughing and thoroughly enjoying their food experience and that’s not really something I’ve seen since starting my food blog. Not only is the food cool and creative; it’s culinary innovation at it’s finest without being pretentious. I felt excited and awe-inspired as soon as I walked through the front door.

From the “Below Zero Nitro-Bar” I started with two amazing drinks: “Buddhalicious” (made with pear infused vodka, lychee and cranberry, served with a nitrogenized pop of pear vodka) and “Cooper’s Margarita” (don julio silver tequila, triple sec, sweet and sour with a grand marnier popsicle.) Holy fabulousness! Both drinks were wonderfully whimsical and packed an extra punch with their liquor-infused popsicles.

For starters I tried three of Barton G’s new appetizers: “Holy Smokes Popcorn,” “The Devil’s Eggs” and “Champagne Oysters & Caviar.” The popcorn (which comes in a Holy Smokes case) is perfect for the truffle lover in your life; made with bacon, white truffle, black truffle, grated parmesan and fresh herbs. The eggs come caged with a carton to boot; made with truffles, bacon, garlic and garden herbs. Last but not least, the oysters (wrapped in a champagne cucumber mignonette, yuzu bubbles and beluga caviar) were absolute perfection and came in a really captivating octopus plate.

Before my main course I tried the colorful “Octopus Terrarium Salad” (filled with a speckling of deep sea yumminess, including seaweed.) The funky “Polynesian Fish Fry” (which is a crispy whole snapper, coconut jasmine rice, spicy veggie pineapple slaw and miso-kona lime remoulade, ) was my main event! The fish practically fell off the bone and who doesn’t love Jasmine rice? It’s one of my absolute favorite things on planet earth. The yummy side sauces complimented every bite perfectly.

Dessert was an over-the-top, free-for-all (in a good way) with the “Lolli Pot Garden” and “Brain Freeze.” The garden was beautiful with a variety of sweets and cake pops (mere words can’t even do the presentation justice) and the brain on a plate:(chocolate fudge mousse cake) was moist, rich and beyond decadent.

Needless-to-say, I did not leave hungry (which sometimes I do on my food blog!) I also left happy; my face actually hurt from smiling. Barton G. has a special artistic spirit that’s totally contagious. I noticed when dining, as each plate emerged from the kitchen (no matter the table,) everyone took turns oohing and awing over it. A mutual love of all things inspiring makes the restaurant’s vibrant energy undeniably palpable. Cheers!

Where:

In the heart of South Beach, just a few blocks away from Alton Road. Street parking is really tough in this area, but the good news? Barton G. provides a speedy valet; one you don’t have to wait a million years for like most restaurants on the beach.

When:

Sunday-Thursday 6pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 6pm-12am

www.bartongtherestaurant.com
Twitter: @Barton_G, IG: @bartongmia, FB: Barton G. The Restaurant

Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.Roald Dahl
Photographer: James Woodley
Wardrobe & Jewelry: @ErmannoScervino
Chanel Handbag: @SerendipityConsignment
Friday, December 4, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: La Moderna Miami

La Moderna Miami

La Moderna Miami

What:

La Moderna Miami, 1874 Bay Road, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139

Why:

With a warm infectious atmosphere, sophisticated modern stylings and true Italian cuisine, “La Moderna Miami” is definitely one of my new favorite things. What’s more, it’s one of the few places I’ve been (as of late) that made me feel incredibly welcome and as if I were the most important person in the room.

As soon as I sat down, I was treated to a much-appreciated plate of (gratis) Focaccia and bubbly, but it paled in comparison to the three amazing drinks I sipped on (that touched even the most hardened film critics heart)…

The “Thelma & Louis” (made with opposing tastes including hibiscus infused aperol, extra dry rum, fresh strawberries, coconut soda water and prosecco) was my absolute fave: decadent, fresh and fruity. “Harry & Sally” (with tequila, pimento dram, lime, ancho reyes, agave nectar and egg white) was light, easy and definitely made me want to “have what she’s having!” At least, until the lustful “Kama e Sutra” arrived (made with templeton rye, lime juice, eucalyptus pear syrup, ginger beer and bitters.) Mmmm…yummy and sexy.

I dined on two appetizers: “Fiori Di Zucca” (tempura fried zucchini blossoms filled with goat cheese and three sauces) and “Gran Fritto de Mare” (fried calamari, shrimp, carrots and zucchini.) Both plates were fried to perfection, which means just the right amount of heat without taking out the flavor. The main course, “Sea Bass Al Cartoccio” (baked chilean sea bass, capers, olives and mini veggies) was magnificent.

For dessert, “Millefoglie” (puff pastry served with Chantilly cream and fresh fruit) was light and subtle. Complimentary grappa and/or limoncello ended the night just right.

The spirit of the service (which was amazing,) great atmosphere and delicious food makes “La Moderna Miami” one of my favorite things, not to mention the fact that it’s all things straight from Rome! What’s not to “amare?”

Where:

The restaurant is located in what I call the “sleepy” part of South Beach (the North West corner.) It’s an area that has beach flair without all the craziness of Lincoln Road or Collins Avenue. Tourism is great, but sometimes a girl just wants to feel special in her own city without all the out-of-town fuss. Parking is easy with several garages in the hood and in true Italian style, they have a plethora of scooter spaces. It’s the perfect place to bring a vespa. Saluti!

When:

Monday-Thursday 11:30am-1:00am, Friday-Saturday 11:30am-2:00am & Sunday 11:30am-12:00am

www.lamoderna-miami.com
Twitter, Instagram & FB: @LaModernaMiami

Laughter is brightest where food is best.anonymous
Shirt: www.hauteglamboutique.com
Skirt: @koreboutique
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Hair/MUA: Odett Hernandez
Friday, November 27, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

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 , , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Grill at Bal Harbour

The Grill at Bal Harbour

The Grill at Bal Harbour

The Grill at Bal Harbour

The Grill at Bal Harbour

What:

The Grill at Bal Harbour, 9700 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour Florida 33154

Why:

Warm, welcoming and beyond delicious food; “The Grill at Bal Harbour” is by far one of the best restaurants in Miami. They just get it and to top it all off, it’s snuggled into one of the best shopping locations in the country, Bal Harbour Shops.

After featuring the latest and greatest in fall fashions on Shireen’s Favorite Things this week, it was kind of a no-brainer to showcase one of the newest eateries there, too. My entire team was mesmerized by its location; which is perched front and center of the open-air mall, with a beautiful outdoor space and windows that fold down in the main dining area to enjoy the beautiful South Florida winter months.

We started our experience with a plethora of pretty and pallet pleasing drinks. Here’s the list: Hand-Shaken Daiquiri, Boulevardier, Paloma, Coastal View and Italian Soda. “The Coastal View” (made with chareau aloe liqueur, bombay sapphire gin, lime juice, ginger ale and fresh rosemary) and the “Italian Soda” (made with campari, solerno blood orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice and club soda) were my absolute favorites. Both were fresh, clean and unusual.

Also, if you’re a sucker for a great margarita, “The Grill” has definitely perfected its recipe; with just the right amount of sweet/sour and an amazingly frothy top. You’ll be hard-pressed to have just one. I’m originally from New Mexico, where we’ve perfected the drink, but this one is as good as it gets for me.

We started our appetizers with the melt in your mouth “Heavenly Biscuits” (with salted butter and a side of honey,) “Deviled Eggs,” better than any southerner could make, “Ahi Tuna Tartare” (served with ciabatta and avocado,) “Campechana” (mexican-style seafood with jumbo lump crab, shrimp, and octopus) and “Chopped Vegetable Salad” (with avocado, roasted beets, grapes, egg, macadamia nuts and fresh herbs.) The tartare was diced perfectly, the seafood cocktail had a great kick to it and man, the salad had the yummiest dressing.

Our main courses were just as tasty. The “Blackened Rib-Eye” (hard-wood grilled with vine ripe tomatoes and blue cheese) provided an interesting table dynamic. I thought I might lose a limb gobbling up my share. It was OUTSTANDING. The “USDA Prime Center-Cut Filet” was great, too, with a more simple straight-forward taste. The filet was served with a delicious mound of whipped mashed potatoes and a hefty pile of buttery broccoli (be still my beating heart.)

For dessert, the “Hot Fudge Sunday” (with sugar roasted pecans) was decadent, but it was the “Tres Leches” (with fresh fruit) that had everyone at the table moaning and groaning with sheer delight. From the excellent presentation, quality and taste of the food, not to mention the exceptional service, “The Grill at Bal Harbour” is definitely one of my favorite things.

Where:

Located on the second floor of the Bal Harbour Shops, it’s easy to access from both sides of the property. Parking is a breeze, too. They have valet at the front and a roomy garage in the back. Be sure and keep your parking ticket handy, though, as they’ll validate/stamp it if you’re a restaurant patron. Cheers!

When:

Sunday-Thursday 12pm-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11:30am-11:00pm

People who love to eat are always the best people.Julia Child
If you’re interested in being featured on spotlight, email me ShireenSandoval@yahoo.com.
Reservations: (786) 260-6650 or book on-line: www.grillatbalharbour.com
IG: @HillstoneRestaurants

Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Stylist: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe provided by @HintMiami
Special thanks to the Bal Harbour Shops PR team

Friday, October 9, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Dutch inside W South Beach

The Dutch inside W South Beach

The Dutch inside W South Beach

The Dutch inside W South Beach

The Dutch inside W South Beach

What:

The Dutch, 2201 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33139

Why:

My recent dining experience at “The Dutch” was so amazing; with its impeccable service, sophisticated food and chic atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite restaurants in Miami. I’ve always had great experiences there, but when I went to try their “Miami Spice” menu (which is just $39 dollars,) I was totally blown away. Although the special menu (which includes an appetizer, entree and dessert) doesn’t include adult beverages, I still had to get my Friday night drink on with some of their more popular cocktails.

The “Watermelon Crush” (made of zubrowka bisongrass vodka, watermelon juice, krogstaadt aquavit, yellow chartreuse, lime and angostura) is just as pretty as it is pink and I loved its interesting spicy aftertaste. The “Tiki Breeze” (made with russian standard vodka, rhum agricole, coconut, lemongrass, creole shrubs and lemon) was a big hit with my producer, Jessie and my photographer, James. It was a sweet, milky concoction we all passed around the table a couple of times, laughing and sipping coyly out of its cool totem pole-looking cup. Last but not least, the “Hemingway Daiquiri” (made with white rum, fresh pressed grapefruit juice and maraschino) was clean and crisp.

I tried two appetizers, starting with the “Local Burratina” (a summer medley with vincotto.) Thanks to Executive Chef, Adonay Tafur, it was almost too beautiful to bite into, but boy, am I glad I did. It was bursting with fresh, tangy goodness and it was the perfect way to start dinner. The “Steamed Countneck Clams” (served with smoked ham hocks and grilled country bread) were beyond delicious and was by far my favorite dish of the night. It wasn’t just succulent; the crispy bread added the perfect texture to the entire plate which was already exploding with personality.

OMG! The “Country Fried Chicken Drumsticks” has officially made my dead man walking list. I always ask people what they would eat for their last meal if they were about to be executed (what can I say? I’m a reporter!) Mine is usually some type of spicy pasta, drenched in red sauce and smothered in cheese. That is, until I tasted this plate of fried, yummy goodness (served with coleslaw and berbere ranch.) The “Homemade Ricotta Cavatelli” (with heirloom tomatoes and torn basil) was pretty incredible, too and I wasn’t even hungry by the time it showed up in all its colorful glory.

For dessert, the incredibly talented Joshua Gripper (Executive Pastry Chef extraordinaire of “W South Beach,”) really out did himself with the “Creamy Lemon Bar” (made with almond nougatine and raspberry ice cream.) Not only was it beautifully plated, it was the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Definitely a home run in my book.

My last few Spotlights have been delicious, but “The Dutch” has a way of making people feel special and that’s really important to me. There are a lot of places you can get decent food, but GREAT food, along with EXCEPTIONAL service, is a pretty rare quality in South Florida. With just a few weeks left of Miami Spice, “The Dutch” is a must-do and it’s definitely one of my favorite things.

Where:

“The Dutch” is snuggled into the back of one of my favorite Miami properties, “W South Beach.” The hotel itself is stunning; with a mix of dark moody textures, off-set by white furniture and animal print trimmings. The art is to die for, too. The service is impeccable and the W Store is a must-visit. I actually have to close my eyes when I pass it so I don’t buy everything they sell (shoes, jewelry, clothes.) Love it! (my credit card, not so much; insert crying emoji here.)

If you’re eating at “The Dutch” walk through the gigantic, stately (automatic) front doors of the hotel and head right. It’s the second entrance on your left. The restaurant is just before “Living Room Bar.” The hotel offers a pretty speedy valet for the beach and they also have a gi-normous public parking lot right in front of the hotel. If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, it’s definitely walkable.

When:

Dinner Hours are Sunday-Wednesday 7pm-11:30pm & Thursday-Saturday from 7pm-12:00am.

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.Virginia Woolf
Reservations: 305-938-3111 or book on-line.
Website: www.thedutchmiami.com
Twitter: @TheDutchMiami
Instagram: @TheDutchMiami
FB: The Dutch MiamiEditor: Matthew Auerbach
Photographer: James Woodley
Producer: Jessie Rosario
Writer/Blogger: Shireen Sandoval
Stylist: Jackie Kay

Wardrobe provided by:
Dress IG: @DVF
Shoes IG: @Alepel_byadriana
My jewelry is a mix of @JillZaleski & @JosetteRedwolf
Purse (it used to be my mom’s back in the 70’s! True vintage.)

A Special thank you to Brustman & Carrino Public Relations.
If you’re interested in being featured on spotlight, email me ShireenSandoval@yahoo.com.

Friday, September 11, 2015 Shireen's Spotlight , , , , ,