Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Rusty Pelican

What:

Saturday morning Brunch at one of Miami’s most famous eateries: The Rusty Pelican.

Why:

Everyone knows about “The Rusty Pelican”…

It’s one of Miami’s most spectacular jewels, with sweeping water views highlighting the decadence of the Magic City skyline.

I’ll never forget the first time I dined there; I was absolutely mesmerized by the place. That was over ten years ago and a lot has changed since then.

Over the past year, the restaurant has undergone a major overhaul, recreating itself by updating its bar, dining room and menu.

Spotlighting dinner or brunch was a tough decision, but those exquisite water views and new brunch menu items helped make up my mind (don’t worry, I’ll go back for dinner.)

“The Rusty Pelican” has a really diverse bar menu, with Classic & Specialty Cocktails, but it was the “Gin & Tonic” section that really caught my eye.

Gin seems strong and tough to drink in the morning; in this case, it’s anything but. They use sophisticated Gins that will leave you satisfied and refreshed…

The “Thyme & Apricot” is the perfect example (made with Ford’s Gin, Thyme, Simple Syrup, Apricot, Green Peppercorn’s and Elderflower Tonic.) This drink not only looks like a summer day, it tastes like one, too.

My favorite, “RP Gin and Tonic (2017 Miami)” named after the Rusty Pelican, is made with Hendricks Gin, Fever Tree Tonic, Grapefruit, Black Pepper and Fennel. Fresh, light and easy on the eyes, it’s a MUST-TRY if you like something strong and delicious.

If you’re looking to stay cool while enjoying the sizzling summer view, go with the hydrating “Agua De Coco” (made with Bacardi Coconut, Coconut Water, Coconut Syrup Lime and Mint.) This drink is vacation in a glass and you can barely taste the rum. Gulpers beware.

Being a New Mexico girl and all, I’m a sucker for a good Huevos Rancheros breakfast and RP’s Executive Chef, Jim Pastor, really takes it up a notch by adding CRAB!

The “Crab Huevos Rancheros” is plated with three towers of deliciousness. Those towers include…

Pinto bean and Jalapeño puree, Organic Tomato Salsa, Blue Corn Tortilla, Cheese and one Egg Sunny Side up.

My mouth is watering just writing about it. It’s actually one of their most popular menu items, and for good reason, too. Instead of a slop of beans and what-have-you, the flavors are well-balanced and meticulously presented.

If you prefer sweet instead of salty, the “Hazelnut Chocolate Ricotta Pancakes” are moist and decadent. The Gold Dusted Cakes are topped with Mint Whip Cream and decorated with Blackberry Molasses Syrup and Strawberry Sand.

But WHY choose? If you like sweet and salty, go for the “Fried Chicken and Waffle”. Mmmmm…. this was mind-blowing and can easily be shared.

Made with an Organic Half Chicken, Orange Cinnamon Waffle and Blackened Grilled watermelon, you won’t be disappointed. The Sriracha Maple Syrup is the icing on the cake, so to speak.

“The Rusty Pelican” is one of those special places in Miami that you just have to experience.

If you want to see our city in all its glory (water, buildings, sunshine and blue skies,) while sipping on gin and eating a fantastic brunch, head to Key Biscayne and make an afternoon of it. “The Rusty Pelican” is definitely worth it and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

The Rusty Pelican
3201 Rickenbacker Causeway,
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149

Reservations: 305-361-3818

When:

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

$6 Valet Service

Be Social:
IG: @rustypelicanmiami
FB: @rustypelicanMiami
Twitter: @RustyPelicanMI

www.therustypelican.com

You must give up the life you planned in order to have the life that is waiting for you.Joseph Campbell
Special thanks to Gita Shonek
James Woodley Photography
dress: @anntaylor shoes: @Schutzoficial clutch: @hm
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Mmmmm” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

Shireen’s Spotlight: Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails

What:

An amazing Friday night dinner at “Lightkeepers Costal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails,” a new Key Biscayne eatery sure to transport you to seafood heaven (especially when you try the LIGHTHOUSE TOWER!)

Why:

I first met Chef Raul Del Pozo a few years ago at a popular South Beach eatery where he was diligently breathing new life into an already creative, over-the-top menu.

No easy task, but he did it without breaking a sweat and I knew then his talents were undeniable, but that’s not all…

With his warm personality, extensive knowledge of food and passion for South Florida fishing, we hit it off.

I mean, not that I fish or anything, but someone has to EAT what Chef is catching. With that being said, I had a hunch it wouldn’t be long before he was on to something else…

That something is called: “Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails” (located inside The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne).

The new restaurant, which is modern, clean and sophisticated, is the perfect place for the progressive Del Pozo to stretch his culinary muscle and of course, I couldn’t wait to Spotlight it.

On a busy Friday night, I was greeted with a warm hello, shown to my table and swiftly handed a glass of bubbly. They sure know how to make a girl feel special (sip, sip, sip). BTW…

“Crafted Cocktails” is in the actual title of the restaurant and for good reason: their drinks are these incredible blends of top shelf liqueurs mixed with fresh herbs, fruits and syrups — all presented with great pride and yes, they’re extremely pretty.

The “El Farito” (made with gin, Elderflower liqueur, lime juice, mint, cranberry + cucumber syrup and tonic) was fresh, fizzy and fashionable. The drink matched my outfit, said the fashion blogger and honestly, I couldn’t have planned it better myself #Drink&DressOnFleek 😎

The “Loggerhead Lavender,” which is a tribute to the endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtle, is swimmingly special (made with gin, raspberry liqueur, Lavender + Lime syrup, pineapple and ginger beer.)

Just in case you’re wondering, you can find the sea turtles putzing around Biscayne Bay. It’s always magical when you spot one and the drink has the same effect, too.

If you like strong and sexaaay, “The Tequesta” is sure to grow hair on your chest and then some. With a meaty mix of Mezcal, Three Chili Syrup and hand-pressed grapefruit juice, you’ll be buzzing with way more than excitement.

I almost called it a night after one bite of the fluffy and fabulous “Sleeper’s Wife’s Biscuits” (served with Keez Beez honey butter & bacon essence.) If you like carbs, save your calories for this dish — as the kids say these days: “This is giving me life!”

The “YellowFin Tuna” (with pickled himeji, cucumber, radish and soy cure) was perfectly plated, not to mention fresh and delicious. The beauty prize of the night, though, goes to the “Beets + Burrata” salad (made with roasted raw beets, rocco’s burrata, heirloom cherry tomatoes, foraged mushrooms, pumpkin oil.) Not only was it gorgeous, I gobbled it up like nobody’s business and I’m not even a beet lover.

From the Crudo part of the menu, I tried the “Hamachi” (made with passion fruit, yuzu kosju and sweet melon.) If you like raw fish, it’s excellent.

The savory “Pork Belly Chicharon” (with salsa picante, and garlic aioli) are lollipop bites of salty goodness and if you’re up on the latest food trends, “Grilled Spanish Octopus” (served with wakame, poached cherry tomatoes and charcoal potatoes) is calling your name.

I died and went to steak heaven when I had a bite of the “Jackman Ranch NY Strip,” which is a 30 day dry-aged masterpiece. A lot goes into perfecting its quality and taste — it’s absolutely one of the best steaks you’ll ever bite into.

If you prefer fish, the “Local Snapper” (served with baby zucchini, sun choke, kohlrabi and key lime preserve,) is a good option and last but not least, there’s the …

Drumroll please….

“LIGHTHOUSE TOWER”, a decadent three tiered serving of east + west coast oysters, Key West Shrimp, Alaskan King Crab, Cedar Key Clams and Yellowfin Tuna. This is great for a special occasion or a shareable treat for the entire table. Its presentation and taste is fit for royalty and come on, who wouldn’t wanna snap a social media pic of this gigantic and gorgeous seafood extravaganza?!

Believe it or not, I saved room for dessert, proving to myself that I’ve officially become a professional eater. 😎

The “Key Lime Cheesecake” with strawberries and meringue is a nice twist on a South Florida favorite. If you prefer something richer, try the “Chocolate Plantain Cake;” the sea salt and caramel ice cream really takes it to the next level and if you’re a fried dough lover (because who isn’t?) A “Bucket of Beignets” (with Passion Fruit + Valrhona Chocolate Sauces) will leave you starring in your own version of “When Harry Met Sally”
Because everyone will want what you’re having.

If you want a true foodie experience, “Lightkeepers Coastal Cuisine & Crafted Cocktails” should be on your list of places to check out in the Magic City. It’s truly a diverse “Surf & Turf” experience, helmed by one of the best young chefs in Miami and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

Where:

Lightkeepers
inside “Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne”
455 Grand Bay Drive, Key Biscayne, Florida 33149

Reservations: 305-365-4156

When:

Sunday-Thursday 7am-10pm / Bar: Midnight
Friday & Saturday 7am-11pm / Bar: 1am
Ladies night is every Thursday and features a live D-J coupled with champagne and oysters (both are priced at $1) yes, you read that right!

Be Social:
FB: @LightkeepersMiami
IG: @lightkeepersmiami
Twitter: @LightkeepersMIA

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/miami/key-biscayne/dining/lightkeeprs

As we work to create light for others, we naturally light our own way.Mary Anne Radmacher
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
outfit by www.bcbg.com
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Sexaaay” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

Shireen’s Spotlight: Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge

What:

Friday night dinner at the chic and sophisticated “Artisan Beach House” — with a killer view and a glamorous oceanesque atmosphere.

Why:

I’ve always loved the north edge of Bal Harbour, the exact spot where the bay and ocean intertwine like old friends. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Miami.

Even the rock jetty has a part of my heart, as I once lived in the neighborhood. I used to walk there every morning, getting some much needed “outdoor” exercise. I’m locked in a TV studio all day, so I always relish my time outside.

On my daily outings, I used to daydream that something special would open shop in the area: a stylish place where I could watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand while enjoying dinner.

Well, sometimes, dreams do come true…

The “Artisan Beach House Restaurant & Lounge” — helmed by Executive Chef, Paula Dasilva — has boldly claimed my favorite spot in the Magic City and it couldn’t be more perfect. The light and airy eatery is snuggled into ‘The Ritz-Carlton’ also known as “One Bal Harbour.”

If you’ve never seen this part of Miami before, it should definitely be on your South Florida bucket list. It’s exquisite and now, it has a restaurant to match its beach-y seaside glamour, which I experienced in all its glory on a busy Friday night…

I started Spotlight with a “French 75” — a cognac drink (with hints of banana liqueur, spicy simple syrup, lemon and sparkling wine), it went done smooth and eazzzzy. Speaking of, the “Gin Fizz” does, too. It’s also a real looker, making it hard not to snap a pic to post on social media. Along with dry gin, thyme and lime, it’s made with aquafaba soda, which gives it that fabulous frothy finish.

If you’re more of a whiskey-slash-bourbon lover, their “Old Fashioned” is one of the best I’ve had (made with Japanese Whiskey, ginger vanilla syrup, black lemon bitters and aromatic bitters). One swig and you’ll be transported to a dimly lit bar in New York City. With one hand on your drink and an eye on the door, you’ll be ready for a night of mystery in the city that never sleeps. I digress…😎

As far as food, the menu is interesting and diverse, inspired by different cultures and peppered with as much local ingredients as possible…

The “Housemade Lonza, Coppa & Rabbit” (served with seasonal jam, artisanal cheese & bread) is an impressive and beautiful Charcuterie spread. I loved the salty flavors paired with the sweet jam.

If you’re an “Octopus” lover (which is a big trend in food right now,) you’ll die over this dish. It’s succulent and tender; served in a yummy cilantro sauce with vadouvan carrots and yogurt.

My two favorite dishes of the night: “Bacalao Croquettes” & “Clams & Mussels”. OMG, the croquettes are divine little balls of heaven served on preserved lemon mayonnaise with pickled okra. The clams and mussels are a bowl of succulent goodness (served in a minty salsa verde sauce.) The charred bread that comes with the bowl is perfect for dunking or soaking. Mmmm… can’t wait to have it again.

If meat is your thang, the “Lamb Chops” are ridiculously good, served with fava beans, english peas and mint. I had it with a side of charred spicy garlic Broccolini, which I highly recommend.

Cleansing one’s palette is a must, especially when faced with a “Chocolate Martini” 😋 and it was only a brief hint of things to come.

Hello, “Salted Caramel Panna Cotta,” where have you been my whole life? Made with caramel popcorn, chocolate and caramel cream and served in a mini mason jar, you’ll be beyond smitten.

And last, but not least: a delicious twist on a local favorite, “Churros” served with Nutella and coffee ice cream. You’ll be powerless when that first sugary fried breadstick hits your lips; good thing there’s an entire basket of them.

The “Artisan Beach House” is a stylish place where I can watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand while enjoying dinner (without daydreaming) and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things.

Where:

Artisan Beach House inside the Ritz-Carlton
10295 Collins Ave.
Bal Harbour, FL 33154

res@artisanbeachhouse.com
305-455-5460

When:

Monday – Sunday 6am-11pm
Lounge: 4pm-Late
Happy Hour is daily 4pm-7pm

Be Social:
FB: @artisanbeachhousemia
IG: @artisanbeachhousemia
Twitter: @ABHMiami

www.artisanbeachouse.com

Every man is the artisan of his own fortune.Appius Claudius Caecus
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: www.bananarepublic.com/
Arm Stacks: www.goodluckcharmsmiami.com/
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Old Fashioned”Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

Shireen’s Spotlight: Naked Crab

What:

An early weekend dinner at one of the newest seafood hot spots in Fort Lauderdale: NAKED CRAB.

Why:

If you’re a South Florida foodie, then you definitely know about Chef Ralph Pagano.

Not only is he crazy-good at what he does (case in point, the popular and always crowded “Naked Taco” on Miami Beach,) he also has a personality fit for the movies. With the intensity of “The Godfather” mixed with the humor of “My Cousin Vinny”, he’s a complete joy to be around.

The guy has more one-liners than Chris Rock doing stand-up on an HBO special. He also radiates the kind of warmth typically found in a true New Yorker — interested and interesting. Not that I’m gushing or anything.

If you don’t know about him…

After cooking on TV with the lot of them (including Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay), he built his own local food empire. With his solid reputation and extensive restaurant knowledge, he just keeps getting better and better.

His latest baby, NAKED CRAB, on Fort Lauderdale’s famed Seabreeze Boulevard, is a direct reflection of his continued success…

The restaurant, which is located inside “B Ocean Resort”, is light and airy but at the same time, hip and moody; with edgy chalk art on the inside and sexy colorful murals on the outside. If Fort Lauderdale and Miami had a baby, it would be NAKED CRAB; all of its good parts, anyway.

I started my spotlight experience with some light and salty “Shrimp Chips” and washed them down with a “Red Dragon Spritz” (which has some complicated ingredients). The most important part, though, is the Satsuma Shiranami Sweet Potato Shocu A.K.A sweet sake (add in some cointreau, Thai Chili Hibiscus simple syrup, lemon juice and Prosecco) and you’ve got yourself one helluva drink.

At least until your “Bangkok Slushy” arrives (made with tequila, cointreau, mango, tamarind and lime juice). You’ll feel like a giddy kid when you’re sucking it through its big straw. Just make sure you’re not overzealous: brain freeze is still a real thing and so are drinks that “sneak up on you.”

My favorite adult beverage of the day was the sophisticated “Geisha Martini” (made with Kettle One Citron Vodka, Awa No Kaori Rice Sochu, jasmine green tea simple syrup, lemon juice and fee brothers grapefruit bitters). Everyone at the table tried guessing its ingredients, but failed. We did, however, succeed in polishing it off. If you like the unique and unusual, this drink’s for you.

When our “Tuna Nachos” arrived, I was a little surprised, because it wasn’t what I was expecting. Instead of tons of food piled on a plate (which is the usual nacho experience), it was polished and pristine (made with jalapeño soy glaze, crispy wonton and wasabi aioli). It was EXCELLENT. This is a must-try on the menu. I also enjoyed…

The “Lobster Knuckle Sandwich” which was generously stuffed with chunky Maine Lobster Salad. This is perfect for the person who likes bread with their seafood. It comes with a side of chips, too.

AND (drumroll please)…

Talk about getting the royal treatment!!! The “Royale” was rolled out…

Served with half dozen oysters and clams and 4 JUMBO SHRIMP, I thought I’d died and gone to seafood heaven. I’m not kidding when I say the shrimps were as big as my head.

Okay, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but “Holy Seafood, Batman!” They were impressive, to say the least. I doused them in hot sauce and fresh horseradish and gobbled them up like a dead man walking. #GetInMyBelly

If you love the Florida Keys, then “A Key Party” is a creatively cool dish you’d enjoy. With a pound of large stone crabs, cracked conch and crab-topped snapper, it screams “dazzling tropical get-a-way.”

Last but not least, “The World Famous Crabster” was presented and it was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Looking back at it, I think it needed a marching band grand entrance or something 🙃…

I’ve never said a crab was beautiful, but there’s a first time for everything. “The Crabster” is a “beautiful” 5 pound Alaskan King Crab heartily stuffed with shrimp, crab and lobster (served in a beurre blanc).

Honestly, it was so ridiculously good, I don’t think my usual flowery adjectives could do it justice. It’s definitely a rich and decadent celebration of seafood. I thoroughly enjoyed it and don’t think I’ll ever eat anything as over-the-top again (until I go back next week 😁).

After a second round of the “Bangkok Slushy” — we got an unforgettable fire show at our table, while our cheeky server flaunted his “Bananas Foster”-making skills. He topped the dessert off with heath bar, M-&-M’s, coconut and Oreo’s. You don’t have to have all the toppings, but we told him: “treat us right”…lol. As if?!!

Well, there’s no doubt about it, I’m a huge fan of Chef Ralph and “NAKED CRAB” is a seafood lover’s dream. It serves a good steak, too. You know, if you’re more of a meat and potatoes kind of person or if you long for the “Surf & Turf” thing.

At “NAKED CRAB”, you’ll not only enjoy the great atmosphere, you’ll dine on extremely fresh seafood and sip on yummy creative cocktails and if you’re really lucky, Chef Ralph will tell you a joke or two, and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Thing’s. Cheers!

Where:

Naked Crab at B Ocean Resort
1140 Seabreeze Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316

When:

Monday-Sunday 7am-11pm

Be Social:
FB: Naked Crab @ncrabfl
IG: @nakedcrabftl

Make a reservation:
954-727-7090

www.nakedcrabfl.com

The crab that walks too far falls into the pot.Haitian Proverb
James Woodley Photography
Producing & Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: www.laboudoirmiami.com IG: @laboudoirmiami
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “The Naked Editor” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

Shireen’s Spotlight: Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill

What:

An adventurous Friday night dinner at the best South African restaurant in Miami —”Big Easy” — inside Brickell City Centre, downtown Miami.

Why:

If you think “Big Easy” is a New Orleans type of eatery, think again.

It’s SOUTH AFRICAN…

And named after professional golfer, Ernie Els, who was bequeathed the nickname, “Big Easy,” because of his smooth golf swing, but that’s not all…

Somewhere during his massive rise to fame and fortune, the world-prominent golfer developed an unadulterated love affair with wine and food.

Which is why his creative partnership with “Big Easy” (located on the third floor of Brickell City Centre) is a total no-brainer or as the kids say, a “Hole in One” — sorry, couldn’t resist a good golf pun. 😀

The menu, which is authentic South African cuisine, is chock-full of unique and interesting choices, easily reflecting the heart and soul of the “Rainbow Nation.”

With romantic lighting, rustic decor and a beautiful bar, you’ll feel transported to an earthier place like, say, Johannesburg, where Ernie happens to be from.

Because of the restaurant’s eclectic backdrop, it was hard picking the perfect place to start my Spotlight experience. I settled on their moody lounge, featuring exposed brick walls, comfy low-sitting sofas and bright green throw pillows.

My first drink of the night, a “White Lightning” — was something I’d heard of but never tasted. In England, it’s more of a cider/moonshine thing; in South Africa, it’s called firewater (made with Leblon Cachaca rum, ginger, cucumber and mint.) This drink definitely packs a powerful yet refreshing punch. If you’re adventurous, try it, you’ll like it.

Next, I swigged on a “Smoking Barrel” — which was thick, bawdy and (of course) smokey. I loved its presentation (made with Big Easy Red, Jura whiskey, Clove and Sandeman Ruby Port.) I’m still trying to figure out how they catch smoke in a glass and serve it. It’s definitely keen bartending chemistry. I also tried the mysterious and sultry, “Black Magic” (with vodka and blackberry.) It’s one of those drinks that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret when you’re partaking.

Instead of another cocktail, the staff suggested I try something from their extensive wine list and why not? Mr. Els, who makes his own adult grape juice at his vineyards east of Cape Town in Stellenbosch, has a lot to choose from.

I sipped on a spicy bold red blend, which easily complemented my first appetizer, “Cowboy Candy” A.K.A Pork Belly ‘Lollipops”.

What’s not to love about braai (roasted meat) smothered in barbecue sauce with a rich bacon flavor? Hello, lovah. This was my favorite of the night.

The “Mini Crab Cakes” were tasty, too (served with apple, slaw and curry aioli.) I’m a sucker for “Fried Green Tomatoes” and “Big Easy” does em’ just right, topped with goat cheese and a sweet tomato chutney.

If you prefer something healthier, the “Caesar Salad” is excellent (made with baby romaine, blistered tomatoes and white anchovies.) I’m a snob when it comes to this kind of salad because it’s easy to do wrong and hard to do RIGHT. This Caesar was fresh, well-balanced dressing-wise and beautiful.

I love being a food explorer and the “Angry Duck Curry” was something I’d never tried before. It was spicy and welcoming, with tender duck breast, red madras curry and yummy basmati rice.

If you enjoy white fish, the African spice-crusted “Corvina” is a great choice. Light and sweet, it’ll leave you wanting more. It’s served on a bountiful bed of risotto verde, which I loved.

Despite doing the food blog for some time now, I’ve never had the privilege of tasting Tomahawk
steak. At “Big Easy” they serve “Dry-Aged Tomahawk Chop” (the mother of all steaks!) When they wheeled it out (yes, I said wheeled it out,) I squealed like a kid in a candy store. MAN!! It was BIG and smelled ridiculously amazing.

Because of its gi-normous-ness, it’s perfect for sharing, plus it comes with two sides (I recommend the Brussel sprouts and roasted cauliflower.) I really enjoyed how they serve the steak with a personal table presentation, slicing it right in front of you. The meat itself was freaking fantastic: tender, juicy and one of the best thing’s I’ve ever tasted. Definitely, one of my new “Favorite Things”.

If you know anything about South African culture, you know how important a good barbecue, which they call Braai, truly is. The “Big Easy Braai” encompasses all the flavors of the popular custom, served with South African farmer’s sausage, a 12-ounce Top Sirloin, double lamb chops and Nigerian prawns (plus two sides.) Be still my beating heart. This is another shareable plate.

The Nigerian Prawns, btw, were the bomb-dot-com. I like the diversity of the Braai because it has a little bit of everything: there’s something to keep everyone at the table happy and who doesn’t like that?

After what seemed like a feast fit for a KING, I tasted two decadent desserts: “Nutella Bread Pudding” and “Apple Strudel” both excellent and served with vanilla ice cream.

I’d love to give you all the juicy ingredients, but the desserts weren’t on the menu and it’s worth throwing caution to the wind and going with your server’s suggestion.

If you long for a different kind of experience, with creative/high quality food and great drinks,”Big Easy,” isn’t just “par for the course”, it’s ready to serve you the South African way and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things.

When:

Sunday-Thursday: 11:30am-11:00pm
Friday-Saturday: 11:30pm-Midnight

Where:

Big Easy
Brickell City Centre
701 S. Miami Avenue, Suite 339A
Miami, Florida 33131

www.bigeasy.miami

Be Social:
IG: @bigeasymiami
FB: @BigEasyMiami

If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far go together.African Proverb
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe & Accessories: www.Vchicstore.com
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “BasMatty” Auerbach