Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

Great Escape

What:

A quick trip to Tulum; where the water is the color of turquoise, the food is the stuff a New Mexican girl’s dreams are made of and the atmosphere is tropical heaven with a side of incredible hospitality. Oh, and there’s just enough internet to allow a modern day woman to rest, relax and sip on a margarita or two.

Why:

After spending some quality time in France, who knew I needed another getaway? Apparently, I DID. If you’ve ever been to Europe you know exactly what I’m talking about. It’s not a place you go to rest, per se; it’s about exploring, discovering, going off-the-beaten-path, eating, drinking and sightseeing until you can’t anymore. I know, I know, I sound crazy, but if you’re like me, when all is said and done, sometimes you need a vacation from your vacation — which is exactly how I ended up making my “Great Escape” to Mexico.

More specifically, the El Dorado Spa & Resort, which happens to be one of the crown jewels of Tulum. It’s not just awe-inspiring, snuggled into the lush greenery of Quintana Roo, it’s also perfectly perched alongside a long stretch of sandy white beaches. If I were Jimmy Buffett, I’d write a song about it called “Lazy Days, Sexy Nights.” The lyrics would go something like this: “A drink in my left hand/one in my right/a white trimmed cabana/hugging me tight/Guess I found happiness/cuz I’m feeling alright/It’s just one of those Lazy Days/Sexy Nights.” Don’t worry, I won’t quit my day job. 😂

The best part of my “Great Escape” — besides the dreamy company —was my hotel balcony, which happened to be a private infinity pool. Yes, I said my balcony was an infinity pool. Oh wait, I enjoyed the swim-up bar, too. That was in the main area of the resort, where frozen Pina Coladas come out of the blender so fast & so frothy, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to happy hour heaven, every hour of every day. Then again, I’m a big foodie and with so many mouthwatering options, I had to strategically map out my menus from meal to meal: Mexican, Italian, Asian, seafood — so many restaurants, so little time.

In full disclosure, I’ve never been big on all-inclusive resorts. I just don’t like crowds or waiting in line. Plus, feeling special when I’m on vacation is a must (because like most people, I work hard and relish my time off,) but El Dorado isn’t just any ol’ place. It’s a sophisticated tropical escape where your every whim is indulged, you’re waited on hand and foot and the biggest challenge of the day is deciding what to eat and drink #OrderOfLobster by the pool, please. I’ll take fries with that and a margarita on the rocks.

Speaking of those aforementioned lines, there were none. In fact, sometimes I felt like I was on my own private island and it doesn’t get much better than that. Sigh. The only BAD part of my “Great Escape” was it ended way too soon. So, here I am, daydreaming of another stay at El Dorado. Next time, though, I’m hoping to stay in one of their beautiful over-the-water bungalows because the only thing better than swimming with the fishies is sleeping close to them, too — that’s why vacationing in Mexico is one of my Favorite Things.

Where:

El Dorado Royale Riviera Maya
IG: @eldoradoresorts #karismaexperience
www.eldoradosparesorts.com

When:

The best time to travel to Mexico is November through March. I went off-season for a special celebration, but tracking the tropics is stressful and trip insurance is a MUST during hurricane season.

We travel
not to escape life,
but for life not to
escape us.Anonymous
James Woodley Photography
Bathing Suits: @jcrew, Monokini: @Montce_swim
Jewery: @handmademiamibeach, @lexijewlery, @liliandcar
Scarves: @camarrero,
Large sunhat: @asos, the rest are from: @SanDiegoHatCompany
Cover-up’s: @bohemeboutique, @vchicstore, @camarrero
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Oh, Mexico” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

Shireen’s Spotlight: The Commodore

What:

Friday night drinks, light bites and live music at The Commodore — where nightlife oozes class and sophistication. Think “The Fabulous Baker Boys” (sexy nightclub movie) meets “The Dead Rabbit” (famous NYC bar known for its great vibe.)

Why:

I don’t miss the NYC weather, but MAN I miss the nightlife. When I lived there, it was all about finding the right bar with just the right amount of personality. I was always attracted to amber-lit lounges drenched in dark wood decor, featuring live jazz or cool cover bands. It was an intoxicating environment and part of what made my time in the city really special. Once I moved back to Miami, though…

My evening hours would never be the same. If I wasn’t working, I was busy coercing one of my co-workers and/or friends into finding a fabulous bar where we could let the day melt away. Family commitments, long commutes or that laid-back beach lifestyle always put a wrench in my invites. Even worse, if I wasn’t into dancing & debauchery on South Beach — I wasn’t getting any after-dark action, unless it was dinner & a movie 😭😴

My sad social life went on this way for years — until just last week, when I caught wind of “The Commodore” inside the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove. FINALLY, a place with the finesse of Miami and the familiarity of New York. Named after Ralph Middleton Munroe, an early settler of The Grove and a distinguished yacht designer, “The Commodore” specializes in live music, craft cocktails and flavorful small plates. The intimate space is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a good conversation or spend some alone time.

After work, on a rainy Friday night, I tucked myself into one of its yummy leather chairs right in front of the fireplace and sipped on their namesake cocktail, “Commodore Old Fashioned” — the smooth and spicy mainstay is made with Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Amaro Nonino and Vanilla simple syrup. I also tried the “Spicy Raspberry Collins” mixed with vodka, lemon juice, jalapeño syrup and fresh muddled raspberry. #FreshAndFruity.

Both paired perfectly with the gorgeous Cheese & Meat Board. The fresh Parmesan and prosciutto were my favorites along with the cornichons and marinated olives. The Ahi Tuna Tacos were just the right size and tasted clean & delicious, served with avocado, candied radish and roasted nori aioli. If you like sweet drinks…

The “Apple Basil Smash” is calling your name; made with vodka, lime juice, simple syrup and St. Germain. My favorite of the night, “San Remo”, is made with Bulleit Burbon, sweet vermouth, OJ, St. Germain, Campari and lemon juice. It’s not just unusual, it’s got a sexy taste that transports you to an exotic place. I also loved the grilled taste of the dry-rubbed Shrimp Skewers, served with cilantro and aioli. I’ve never tasted Arancini balls and boy, have I been missing out. Stuffed rice balls, coated with bread crumbs and deep fried. Yes, please. It’s a #musttry served in tomato jam and doused in Grana Padano (an Italian cheese that’s similar to Parmigiano.) Enhancing the deliciousness of the dishes, a glass of full bodied spanish red wine. The 2015 Torres Salmos Priorat to be exact. Hmmm…

If you’re looking for a place that’ll make you feel special in more ways than one, stop by the new, chic cocktail lounge and have a drink and a nosh, listen to some live music and remember, a quality nightlife experience doesn’t have to be a sweaty club-hopping, half-naked evening out drowned with overly loud music and that’s why “The Commodore” is one of my Favorite Things.

When:

Sunday – Tuesday 5pm-11pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 5pm-12am
Friday & Saturday: 5pm-1am
Live music is on Friday & Saturday: 9pm-12am
Happy Hour daily from 5pm-7pm

Where:

The Commodore
inside The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
3300 SW 27th Avenue
Miami, Florida 33133

I feel sorry for people who don’t drink. When they wake up in the morning, that’s as good as they’re going to feel all day.Frank Sinatra
James Woodley Photography
dress purchased at Etiquette Boutique
earrings: @vchicstore
vintage clutch: @FlyBoutique
shoes: @betseyjohnson
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “The Third Baker Boy” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

Shireen’s Spotlight: Mason Eatery

What:

Brunching at Mason Eatery, where dishes like Goopy Egg & Creamed Corn have shooketh my foodie world.

Why:

Tucked into the heart of Midtown Miami, Mason Eatery is light, airy and the perfect place to grab a quick, quality bite or enjoy a long leisurely breakfast, lunch or dinner. Its laid-back sophistication is a breath of fresh air in a city where “more is more” seems to be an exhaustive restaurant theme.

The family-owned, Art Deco-inspired eatery prides itself on unique culinary cuisine, serving up dishes like Creamed Corn made with red shrimp & cornbread crumble. 😋 Mason also makes everything from scratch and I do mean everything. The salmon is killer: cured with salt and dill for three days, rinsed and smoked for six hours.

It’s nothing short of mind-blowing and beautifully presented in their Bagel & Lox with garlic cream cheese and capers. You can get it on their Mason Board, too, which also comes with 12-day, house marinated pastrami and ham. Mmmm… the homemade mustard is definitely something to write home about and I don’t even like mustard. I guess I’ve just never tasted the real thing. #BottleAndSell

If you’re a cocktail lover, you’ll appreciate their fresh take on drinks like the Mule with ginger beer & Cardamaro or go for the unusual with A Mason Grace with Rose’, elderflower and ale. If you’re more of a mimosa fan, try the watermelon; it was my favorite. If you like fresh juices, the pineapple is life-changing. 🥂🍉🍍

The mouthwatering ham n’ cheese omelette is served with a yummy latke and the Mason Salad (with a chicken add on) makes watching your waistline all the more enjoyable. As if all of that wasn’t enough…

My true love affair was with the Goopy Egg — Muenster cheese mixed with sour cream and bagel chips to dip with #ComeToMama. The chips are homemade, just like all of their bread. Speaking of… so was my dessert: two melt-in-your-mouth cookies (chocolate chip and double chocolate) and a delicious key lime bar. 🍪🍰

While Mason is perfect the way it is (especially their late night hours,) I hear provocative changes are in store. Until then, I’ll enjoy the inspiring food and the feel good atmosphere – it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

When:

Daily from 10am-2am

Where:

Mason Eatery
3470 N Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida 33127
Reservations: 786-618-5150

Be Social:
IG: @masoneatery
FB: @MasonEatery
Twitter: @MasonEatery

www.masoneatery.com

What nicer thing can you do for somebody than make them breakfast?Anthony Bourdain
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe @filomenafernandez
earrings: @vchicstore
sunnies: @zara
clutch & shoes: @StevenMadden #LincolnRoad
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Lover of Latke” Auerbach

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

Shireen’s Spotlight: Call Me Gaby

What:

Pizza & drinks at “Call Me Gaby” — a romantic garden oasis South Of Fifth.

Why:

Charming & rustic: “Call Me Gaby” reminds me of something you’d find deep in the countryside of Tuscany but lucky for us, it’s conveniently located on South Beach. The cottage-style Italian restaurant is decorated with white-washed furniture, overstuffed throw pillows, pink roses and shabby/chic ornaments.

Its fabulous outdoor patio is lush with greenery & easily uses Miami’s tropical personality as its backdrop. I started my Spotlight experience there smothered in comfy cushions on a sprawling couch while sipping a decadent & delicious “Panna Cotta Martini” (made with vanilla vodka, coconut cream, mixed berries and ricotta cheese.) #SweetAndStylish

After enjoying the beautiful weather, I moved inside to admire the delightful decor & of course, taste the food. One side of the restaurant has a long, working pizza bar with a brick oven, the other a cocktail bar, where they whipped me up a “Gigalo” (made with Frangelico, Chambord, muddled lime & fresh berry juice.) Hmmm…this one is for the record books. It’s gorgeous to look at and even tastier to drink. 🍹

My three appetizers, which arrived at the same time, were chosen to complement one another. “Tomato In Jar” (which is under “salad” on the menu) was fresh and healthy with heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions & black olives. I fell madly in love with the lamb and beef meatballs — called “Pot of Meatballs” — served with whipped fresh ricotta, chives & olive oil. I devoured both alongside the “Focaccia” (made with pizza dough, rosemary, coarse salt and extra virgin olive oil.)

All of “Call Me Gaby’s” dough is to-die-for and made Pinsa Romana Style. Meaning, it’s extra hydrated, light and airy. So you can leave the bloat at home because you won’t be getting it from the food off this menu. When they filled me in on this fun little fact, I imagined myself driving straight home, lighting all my Spanx on fire while eating an entire “Call Me Gaby” pizza straight outta the box. #BringItOn #YesTheyDeliver 🍕

All that pizza-eating empowerment got me to thinking: who’s Gaby, anyway? And should I thank her in person? I came to find out “Gaby” isn’t just ONE woman, she’s ALL women (beautiful, strong, stylish, talented, NOT bloated and can make a great pizza pie.) The concept was created by the restaurant’s owner, Cathy.

Food with a healthy dose of #GirlPower? *MAN, don’t mind if I do. Speaking of, there also happens to be a team of masculine Italian chefs handcrafting pizzas and I tried two of them — by the way, “Call Me Gaby’s” gourmet pies are named after women — “Angela” is made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, avocado, lemon zest and dill. It had incredible taste, texture and high quality ingredients. Not to be out done, the wonderfully unique “Pizzaladiere” with caramelized onions, anchovies and black olives. It was sweet and savory. I’ve never tasted anything like it and that’s saying something with all the food I’ve tried over the last four years. #MyMuffinTopIsTheRealDeal 🙀

Before dessert, I wet my whistle one last time with the strong & tasty “Gaby Margarita” … made with tequila, mezcal, jalapeño-infused Green Chartreuse, cucumber and lime juice, this is NOT your ordinary margarita. It’s #SouthOfTheBorderItalianStyle 💃🏻

For dessert, with a Limoncello in hand, I tried the lovely “Catalina Pizzetta” topped with cream cheese, mixed berries, honey and almonds. If you’re more of a doughnut lover, “Antonella” will take you prisoner and never grant you parole with finger dough, Nutella, powdered sugar and pistachio crumble. 😊

“Call Me Gaby” isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience with GREAT food and AMAZING atmosphere, the patio is especially picture perfect and best of all, it’s a place that celebrates women and that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Now, pass the pizza pie!

Where:

Call Me Gaby
22 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, Florida 33139

When:

Sunday – Thursday: 12pm – 11:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 12pm-12am

www.callmegaby.com

Be Social:
IG: @callmegabymb
FB: @callmegabymiamibeach
Twitter: @callmegabyMB

I know what I want. I want it all. I want to try everything once.Anthony Bourdain
James Woodley Photography
wardrobe by @vchicstore
accessories by Charming Charlie’s
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Call Me Matty” Auerbach

~In loving memory of Anthony Bourdain~

Shireen’s Spotlight: Stubborn Seed

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. Beautiful red cocktail. Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. Custom Old Fashioned. Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. Fresh Hawaii Kajiki with Blue Marlin Fishl. Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. House smoked Foie Gras. Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. Stout Cake with caramelized apples and ginger ice cream. Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

Shireen’s Spotlight at Stubborn Seed. Blue Vchic Boutique off-the-shoulder dress on South Beach.  Shireen Sandoval weekly fashion and food blog based out of Miami, Florida.

What:

Dining at one of the most talked-about new hot spots on South Beach: “Stubborn Seed,” helmed by celebrity chef, Jeremy Ford, who won Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13.

Why:

If you like modern sophistication with a healthy dose of eccentric creativity, I have two words for you: “Stubborn Seed” — not only is the new eatery a place to see and be seen, it’s also a haven for the genuine foodie.

The best way to describe the cuisine is a “symphony of flavors”. It’s well thought-out, carefully planned and meticulously executed. The true crescendo, though, is when the food hits your mouth. And, like most music or any form of art, while you may not fully understand it, you can still enjoy and appreciate it.

In case you’re wondering, the name “Stubborn Seed” is a cloaked metaphor about the restaurant biz. More specifically, about the struggles, determination and passion it takes to succeed in it…

Which is something Chef Jeremy Ford knows a lot about. Despite having huge success on a major reality show, his extensive cooking knowledge has been won the hard way. In and out of kitchens since the age of 14, Jeremy has slowly worked his way up the proverbial food chain.

And you might say, he’s finally arrived…

“Stubborn Seed” is an effortlessly chic experience, with warm lighting, a predominant bar and (my favorite part) an intimate dining room. At its center, a large glass window showcasing what’s going on in the kitchen. It’s not just about seeing the magic, it’s also about feeling like an extension of that creative process.

I started my Sunday night #Spotlight with the interesting and innovative “Desert Daisy” — a tequila-based drink with a spicy kick — made with yummy ingredients like beets, orange bell pepper, lime & habanero shrub. It’s served on ice in this really cool Earth Dome glass with a dusting of carrot habanero. It’s a pinky-lifting drink. #ImSoFancy

If you’re more of a do-it-yourself kind of person, the “Silver Dollar Old Fashioned” will definitely pay off. The drink, which arrives on a shiny silver tray, is pre-set with the perfect ingredients. With a choice of bourbon or whiskey (I did bourbon,) in-house seasonal bitters and golden simple syrup, pour your own personal measurements and mix! Or, if you’re like me, ask a professional! My server was a great sport…

Besides, the only thing I should be pouring is wine (I’m pretty decent at straight vodka, too.) Both drinks were amazing. Of course, I suggest the Desert Daisy for a lady and the Old Fashioned for a gentlemen. Neither disappoints and both are beautifully presented. Wait — who am I kidding? I drink like a sailor and would settle for both #StrongDrinksMakeMeHappy

From the menu, which is pretty straightforward & printed on paper (because it’s constantly changing,) I tried a piece of the complimentary warm bread with a side of garbanzo chili dip. It was sooooo soft (like buttah) and the dip had great texture and taste. If you want more, you can order it as an appetizer. Carbohydrates make my world go round, so for me, this is a must-try and believe me, it’s not a waste of space or calories.

I tried two appetizers — on the menu they’re presented as Raw / Snacks …

The “Hawaii Kajiki” (which is basically Blue Marlin) is a delicate blend of salty and savory, made with fermented chili, buttermilk, seaweed, sea grapes and asian pear. If you’re a fan of sashimi, you’ll love this.

And the “Smoked Foie Gras” — which is delicate and divine — is served with almonds, winter squash and quince. (Quince is kind-of like a fancy pear.) If you’ve never ventured into Foie Gras, this is definitely the place to do it. Plus, the presentation is filled with dramatic smokey goodness (the blog picture says it all.)

I also tried two mains — on the menu, they’re presented as Meats / Fish …

The “Slow Cooked Florida Snapper” was a foamy work-of-art, made with poblano cucumber lime, little neck clams, bitter lettuce & asian greens. It’s a carnival of light flavors worth trying; especially if you’re a fish lover.

Meat lover’s REJOICE! (Uh, that would be ME,) because the “Umami Short Rib” is amazeballs. Tender and tasty, it’s plated with trumpet mushrooms, heirloom carrots and miso mustard butter. I liked the balance of both dishes, but the ribs were so perfect, I almost proposed. #PrioritiesPeople

After Thanksgiving, you may not be game for dessert, but don’t ignore whatever it is they’re serving. I thoroughly enjoyed the “Stout Cake” with caramelized apples and ginger ice cream. It wasn’t too sweet, but it was indeed tasty. Who knew beer could be so fluffy and fantastic? (Said the girl who prefers vodka.)

If you’re looking for something different, interesting and incredibly provocative, “Stubborn Seed” is not only set to impress, it’s positioning itself as one of the best restaurants in the Magic City and to think it’s just getting started…that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things..

Where:

Stubborn Seed
101 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, FL. 33139

When:

Sunday-Thursday: 6pm-11pm
Friday-Saturday: 6pm-12am
Monday: Closed

www.stubbornseed.com/about/
Reservations: 786-322-5211
reservations@stubbornseed.com

Be Social
IG: @stubborn_seed
FB: @stubbornseed
Twitter: @StubbornSeed

Sometimes when you’re in a dark place
you
feel like you’ve been buried,
but actually
you’ve been planted.Christine Caine
James Woodley Photography
Styling: Jackie Kay
Wardrobe: @Vchicstore
Clutch: @ZacPosen
Jewelry: @handmademiamibeach
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “Fancy Pear” Auerbach