Aurora Dominguez, Author at Lifestyle Media Group https://lmgfl.com/author/aurora-dominguez/ South Florida's largest single-title brand Fri, 07 Feb 2025 18:30:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://lmgfl.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/cropped-LMG-Brand-Favicon-512x512-1-32x32.png Aurora Dominguez, Author at Lifestyle Media Group https://lmgfl.com/author/aurora-dominguez/ 32 32 Enjoy Handcrafted Cocktails and Upscale Bites With a View at Rosa Sky Rooftop in Brickell https://lmgfl.com/enjoy-handcrafted-cocktails-and-upscale-bites-with-a-view-at-rosa-sky-rooftop-in-brickell/ Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:26:23 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=57077 The beauty of the Downtown Miami skyline is one that is not to be missed. There’s something extremely soothing about taking in the sights, the soft breeze, a peek at high-rises and the buzzing energy of the city. It awakens you and calms you. This is why Rosa Sky Rooftop is a stand-out venue in

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The beauty of the Downtown Miami skyline is one that is not to be missed. There’s something extremely soothing about taking in the sights, the soft breeze, a peek at high-rises and the buzzing energy of the city. It awakens you and calms you. This is why Rosa Sky Rooftop is a stand-out venue in the heart of the city. Not only is it beautiful, with tasteful black and pink décor that makes the venue not only inviting but a special place to spend a day or night with a group or a special someone.

Placed on a building’s 22nd floor, you know you’re in for a treat when it comes to views when you visit. And, it’s beautiful during the late afternoon, right before the sunset when we visited, and we are sure it’s also gorgeous at night, as you take in the twinkling building lights.

My friend and I had the chance to visit Rosa Sky Rooftop on a recent Saturday evening. From the food to the drinks, we were impressed with the rooftop’s bustling environment and the perfect view of the city skyline.

If you are looking for fun and relaxation, this is it. When we sat down at a comfortable couch placed perfectly in front of the view, we knew we were ready for a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. And we were ready for some cocktails, especially after going over their extensive list.

The list at Rosa Sky Rooftop offers a cocktail for everyone to try. If you like a well-made old-fashioned drink, or a fun martini featuring a great blend of spirits, you’ll feel right at home.

Let’s talk about the spot’s tapas, which the servers will be happy to recommend you try with your cocktail, especially to enhance the flavor of the food and the experience.

Some standout tapas in the new menu include the Spice Rubbed Tuna Poke Bowl with a citrusy leche de tigre that you should not leave without sampling. There are also vegetarian options such as the Marinated Watermelon Wedge Salad and the vegan Spinach & Artichoke Dip. We found the fact that these were available on the menu amazing, especially for those looking for these types of dishes.

Rosa Sky Rooftop Miami

If you want something sweet, make sure to try out the Strawberry-Rhubarb Parfait or Alfajores filled with rich chocolate, vanilla, and a warm dulce de leche center. Those are a crowd pleaser.

The cocktails at the venue are not only colorful and eye-catching, but they add to the ambiance by being beautifully presented. Ordering is a breeze especially thanks to images illustration how each cocktail is served and what it looks like.

This detail is a definite win for those who wish to try something new, something familiar, or even something that looks cute on your Instagram, especially by placing the cocktail right in front of the skyline, which we recommend is a picture worth taking.

While there, we tried some impressive new cocktails. Some of these new offerings include the cute Panda-Monium and the smoky Tokyo Mariachi. Then there’s one of my favorites, the refreshing Melon-Dramatic, as well as the delicious Shiso Fine.

Just as I left the venue feeling educated and happy with my cocktail experience, I’m sure you will as well. And, please, don’t forget to take in the relaxing view as you enjoy a great experience.

For more information, visit www.rosaskyrooftop.com and follow@rosaskyrooftop on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.

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Dine Like a True VIP at Sushi by Bou Wynwood https://lmgfl.com/dine-like-a-true-vip-at-sushi-by-bou-wynwood/ Fri, 24 Jan 2025 17:14:46 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56996 The restaurant has over 20 locations in the U.S.

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Sushi by Bou is not your typical sushi restaurant. It’s an exclusive experience where only a select few who have been able to secure a reservation find themselves in a secret dining wonderland. Located on the third floor of Arlo Wywnood’s Higher Ground, the restaurant is one that mixes in elegance, pop culture and a secretive vibe that just works to create a unique type of environment where you do not only feel welcome, but also like you are part of an elite group invited to a private dinner party.

While Sushi by Bou is a timed experience meant to be immersive, the omakase does not rush you out.  And that’s a plus, and one that sets the restaurant apart. It shows their passion for true hospitality and for their craft.

While there, you are greeted warmly as they offer you a spot at the bar or the welcome lounge full of plush and comfortable seating. It does not feel like just a restaurant; it feels like an intimate speakeasy-inspired space where you can make new friends and chat intimately with other dining guests and the chefs that hand-select and prepare fresh sushi for you to enjoy.

While my friend and I were there, we felt like part of the family, like we were dining with loved ones or meeting new people in a small and inviting space meant for not only having some yummy food but also experimenting with new flavors.

The décor of the restaurant adds perfectly to the experience. When you walk in, you’ll feel like you have been transported to an art space where ’90s hip-hop reigns. It’s a lot of fun to be surrounded by it, and it adds to the experience and makes you feel like you are in quite the funky gallery.

Featuring abstract graffiti and portraits of hip-hop icons like The Notorious B.I.G., the restaurant’s dim lighting that still illuminates the art beautifully and fancy velvet furnishings in deep black, bright white and crimson colors, makes you feel like true VIP invited to a private party.

Sushi by Bou Wynwood

The Sushi by Bou chefs don’t play when it comes to their craft. They are passionate about the menu for guests and only use the freshest locally and globally sourced fish.

They are also gracious and happy to greet a crowd at their small communal-style table, one that’s passionate about food and explain each bite to each visitor and are happy to answer questions as they take us on a true dining journey. Expect delicious twists all around when it comes to the food and the amazing flavors all united in one.

Diners can select from two signature experiences: a 12-course menu for $65, or a 17-course journey for $125. We also recommend starting your night with selection of handmade cocktailsimported sake and some delicious and rare Japanese whiskeys. The knowledgeable bar staff will be happy to recommend something that fits your tastes and cravings that evening.

The NYC-based hospitality group simplevenueSushi By Bou proved to us that they are a unique and fun omakase experience, and the Wynwood location is a welcome addition to a restaurant that delights diners at over 20 nationwide locations.

So, make sure to visit. You will not regret this special night and magical dining experience meant to be enjoyed.

For more information and to make reservations, visit https://sushibybou.com/locations/south-florida/sushi-by-bou-wynwood/. The Wynwood location is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday beginning at 5 p.m., with the last seating at 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and at 11:15 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

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Old Lisbon Delivers Authentic Portuguese Food in an Elegant Setting https://lmgfl.com/old-lisbon-delivers-authentic-portuguese-food-in-an-elegant-setting/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:41:08 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56951 The restaurant’s food is perfectly complemented with its excellent wine selection.

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At times, we simply need a restaurant where good food, a cozy environment and the chance to try new things connect. A place that’s as good as it is for date night as it is for a good conversation and dinner with friends. Recently, I visited Old Lisbon with my husband and was not only impressed but felt right at home in a place where fine dining and an extensive list of hand-selected wines exist in harmony, connecting to make the dining experience a memorable one.

Once my husband stepped inside, we were greeted by a dining room with gorgeous and peaceful shades of white and light blue additions to their cushy tables, as well as dashes of deep brown tones within their wine cellar, as well as the addition of a 120-year-old olive tree.

Known as an “Oliveira,” the tree is there to symbolize the importance of tradition and longevity. The décor, including gorgeous hand-painted columns with dashes of décor representing Portuguese culture, is all designed by architect Ricardo Azevedo.

Azevedo’s obvious care for detail will also have you feeling impressed and eager to share all about your experience to others who might want to visit.

With all of this, the new Aventura location adjacent to the upscale and expansive Aventura Mall is a magical one to visit.

It’s no surprise, especially since the restaurant has a lovely history in South Florida. Old Lisbon is known for its perfectly authentic Portuguese cuisine in a traditional and elegant environment, which is proven by its vast history.

Old Lisbon has been an important dining establishment in South Florida since 1991. When you visit the restaurant, you can see why, since the place not only feels like home but also offers delicious food and an environment to relax in and feel pampered.

When the restaurant was created, founder Carlos Silva started as its first customer, and now his son, Carlos Jr., has taken over the responsibility of keeping the restaurant’s history alive, especially when it comes to its culture and roots.

When my husband and I went, this was proven by the food. And we were happy to ask for recommendations from the server that was not just knowledgeable, but attentive and caring.

Some favorites that we tried were the classic Bolinhos de Bacalhau (codfish croquettes), hot and well-seasoned Chouriço Assado (flaming sausage,) as well as one of my favorite dishes, Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams in white wine.)

Old Lisbon Food

The restaurant’s food is perfectly complemented by its excellent wine selection. Their extensive collection of Portuguese wines, the largest in Florida, stored in a floor-to-ceiling wine cellar, are some of the best that we’ve tried. Make sure that you do not leave until you sip on some Vinho Verde, a traditional and refreshing Portuguese wine that perfectly complements the spot’s diverse dishes.

The dishes are traditionally Portuguese, and the churrasco steak with chimichurri, as well as their delectable and traditional desserts such as the Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts) and Delicia de Fátima (custard-based dessert), make this restaurant a spot that is a must visit for those who love a place fueled by a passion for culture, tradition and fine dining.

For more information on Old Lisbon and to make a reservation, visit http://oldlisbonrestaurants.com

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Enjoy Elegant Dining With a Contemporary Twist at Abe & Louie’s in Boca Raton https://lmgfl.com/enjoy-elegant-dining-with-a-contemporary-twist-at-abe-louies-in-boca-raton/ Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:52:27 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56839 The restaurant recently updated its menu.

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There’s nothing better than walking into a steakhouse, one that is elegant and refined. One where you can envision people indulging on a perfectly prepared meal and deep conversation, as they take time for themselves and to enjoy a great dine. Abe & Louie’s in Boca Raton has always been that type of place. And with recent revamps, even longtime fans of the restaurant have a chance to enjoy something special and maybe even something new off the menu.

As soon as you walk inside, you will find yourself immersed in a classy environment filled with plush seating, dim lights, and an elegant bar. Once there, you know you are going to enjoy an experience where you’ll be pampered with great service and a great meal as well.

The updated dinner menu at Abe & Louie’s is impressive. The restaurant introduces several new and unique dishes, and they are the type of dishes that fans of the restaurant will love and that will also certainly win over some new guests. It’s the type of menu that will impress to the point that it will become the talk of the Boca Raton restaurant scene.

Some new dishes are the Million Dollar Baked Potato, topped with Ossetra caviar and crème fraîche for a luxurious twist on a classic that is as savory as it is satisfying. This was one of our favorites to begin with when my guest and I visited and one that is a perfect starter.

Other new additions include the Bacon-Wrapped Diver Scallops with a grain mustard glaze, Hand-Cut Beef Tenderloin Tartare with truffle kettle chips, and Escargots en Croûte featuring garlic-parsley butter in puff pastry. Each addition is a luxurious one, and they don’t hold back on making sure that these additions are enjoyable and proven to be prepared with care.

The main courses highlight the restaurant’s knack for elegance and upscale dining. They are the Rack of Lamb with herb-roasted potatoes and pistachio pesto, an 8 oz filet mignon paired with crab-stuffed prawns in the Surf & Turf, andCrab-Stuffed Local Snapper served with whipped potatoes and a rich tomato lobster sauce. Any of these dishes will perfectly follow your selected first course, and I recommend ordering two or three, depending on your group size and sharing. They are worth a try and are perfect for those who enjoy different types of main dishes.

Abe & Louie's Lamb Chops
Lamb Chops

If you crave to visit a place like Abe & Louie’s not just for dinner but also for lunch or brunch, you are in luck.

Abe & Louie’s is both memorable place and a truly delicious one to visit. And their lunch selections are as elegant and refined as their dinner options.

For lunch, diners can enjoy upscale sandwiches like the Lobster Club, one that layers bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise between slices of brioche. We also recommend the signature Abe’s Prime Cheeseburger, topped with caramelized onions and melted cheddar cheese. It’s always good to try a classic with a twist.

The restaurant offers a Raw Bar with fresh seafood selections for those guests that adore items that come out fresh from the sea. Expect oysters, shrimp and other delights as light options for lunch.

I’m a huge fan of a laid-back Sunday Brunch. The one at the restaurant seems epic, and one where you can wear your most elegant Sunday best.

Options at the brunch include classics like the Caramelized Banana French Toast, drizzled with maple and topped off with pecans, and the Crab & Asparagus Omelette, wrapped in cheddar and topped with hollandaise sauce. So, as you can see, those who love sweet treats and those who prefer something a little savory can have something that they’ll truly enjoy at the restaurant’s brunch.

Not only is Abe & Louie’s a hot spot for any meal, but it’s also a great spot to come by for a signature cocktail at their bar or a glass of wine that pairs with all your selections. Expect to be always pampered by knowledgeable servers and expert mixologists in a place that combines the elegance of a great restaurant with great dishes and feels cozy as well.

At Abe & Louie’s in Boca Raton you are part of their family as soon as you walk inside their doors.

For more information and to make a reservation, please visit www.abeandlouies.com

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Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse Brings an Upscale Dining Experience in Fort Lauderdale https://lmgfl.com/daniels-a-florida-steakhouse-brings-an-upscale-dining-experience-in-fort-lauderdale/ Fri, 08 Nov 2024 14:10:03 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56796 The caviar selection serves as a perfect starter.

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Located in Fort Lauderdale, Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse is one of those places that takes you back to a time where steakhouses provided classic service, the type of service and experience that is immersive and meant to impress. As my husband and I walked into the packed dining room, it was impressive to see a bustling bar, patrons filling up close to every table, and servers whisking on by taking care of their guests. During my visit, they were only open for a couple of weeks.

Yet, honestly, this is not a surprise to see. Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse not only deserves the hype and high interest from foodies, but it is a place that proves their worth by their hand-selected menu, full of top-notch options for all.

The restaurant strives and is becoming a neighborhood eatery, and many locals were in attendance to prove this point when I dined there with my husband. We even struck up a great conversation with a couple next to us who have been residents since they were kids and felt very excited to have a new and elegant spot to visit for date night.

With this, and the restaurant’s menu, we can certainly see this eatery becoming a destination one as well, one that will not only impress Broward locals, but will tempt South Florida residents to pay a visit.

The restaurant is the brainchild of Gioia Hospitality Group, and it is one that shines a spotlight the diverse bounty of Florida and all that the state has to offer when it comes to food. Their cuts of meat and carefully selected, for example, and prove that the chefs don’t take their craft lightly. This is a passion for them, and it shows.

Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse has a classic interior, full of white details throughout, vintage glasses for their cocktails such as a classic old-fashioned or dirty martini, and an expansive bar with gold details as you walk in. You’ll be impressed and feel like you’ve traveled to another time, where you are treated like royalty when you dine.

Daniel's Steakhouse

Speaking of cocktails, you can tell that the mixologists take care of their cocktails and how they prepare them. It’s an elevated beverage program, and every cocktail is prepared and served with care.

For example, my gin dirty martini came in a beautiful tray. On the tray, the gin was placed on the tray, along with olives and olive juice. This all surrounded a gorgeous and vintage martini glass, and it was fun to add to the beverage and make it my own.

If you love wine as I do, we also highly recommend the restaurant’s cabernet wine flight. With this flight, you’ll have a chance to enjoy some of the top wines selected by the knowledgeable sommeliers and servers.

Lastly, the food is exceptional, and the caviar selection and snacks truly represent not only the elegant selections in the menu, but work as a perfect starter.

You can enjoy a Kaluga Schrenckii Caviar featuring crème Fraiche, quail Eggs, and waffle-style toast points. Then there are the Chips & Dip, also with Kaluga Schrenckii Caviar, crispy house-made Potato Chips, Caramelized Onion, Florida Sour Cream and Chives.

As for the main dishes we highly recommend digging into their selection of steaks and chops such as the 8 oz Creekstone Prime Filet Mignon or the 14 oz Australian Margaret River Wagyu NY Strip. You even have the options of adding truffle butterand other selected enhancements to the steaks. We recommend the Florida Rosemary Fries as well as a side. They were delicious and crispy and accompanied the steaks in an excellent way. Their selection of pasta is also high-end, so we would even recommend one to share.

Once you leave the steakhouse, you’ll leave happy with your experience and eager to come back to a place that is as special as it is satisfying.

For more information and to make reservations, visit https://www.danielssteak.com/.

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High-End Dining and Upscale Service Shine at Mona Lisa https://lmgfl.com/high-end-dining-and-upscale-service-shine-at-mona-lisa/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:25:44 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56745 Those who enjoy top-notch spirits will be impressed with their selection of Japanese whiskeys.

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When you walk into Mona Lisa, you will not only be greeted by the restaurant’s elegant décor and nightlife-friendly environment, but you’ll walk in feeling like you just received the red carpet treatment as they open the door to warmly greet you.

Mona Lisa is not just a place that you visit on a whim. It’s a place where you can enjoy a fancy dinner and even decide to spend the night. It’s the type of place that exudes elegance and style.

As you walk in, you’ll quickly realize that those at Mona Lisa wants guests to have a fully immersive and artistic experience. Their goal is that they feel like they are a part of Leonardo ‘s famed masterpiece.

Obviously inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, with an artificial rock formation resembling the mountains painted in the background. And it shows by the attention to detail from tables and countertops made from an elegant Italian stone from the region where Leonardo drew inspiration to create his work.

Also, don’t forget to look down. Then, you’ll notice shiny golden scratches that wish to represent the little fractures on the masterpiece, one that art lovers are passionate about, even after more than 500 years of its existence.

Right when my husband and I walked in, it was evident that we were in for a great experience. We were provided with a tasting menu, one that those who are not familiar with the restaurant’s food and concept would enjoy the most. And, just like da Vinci’s art, this restaurant is art on its own, and it wants you to know that you are also a part of the masterpiece, a place where you can create and enjoy your own artistic dining experience.

And, not only that, but the tasting menu experience offers the chance to have one of the knowledgeable servers select wines to pair with their meal, dish by dish.

At $89 per person, with $45 additional for the wine pairing, we suggest that visitors that go to the restaurant start with this experience, so they can sample and enjoy all that Mona Lisa has to offer for discerning foodies.

Not only was the menu perfect for enjoying between us, but the portions and food came to us at the right time for us to dig in and share. At Mona Lisa, it is recommended to share dishes as they arrive, that way each guest can try out each other’s dishes.

This realization came to us as soon as we sat down, especially since trying all these dishes gave us the chance to enjoy and explore Mona Lisa and the restaurant’s concept, which is to offer diners perfectly prepped Asian-Mediterranean dishes.

These dishes are part of the restaurant’s fusion concept, as the food showcases diverse flavors that connect in a way where both types of foods are clearly represented.

The restaurant’s culinary vision is thanks to Chef Benjamin Goldman. As you try dish after dish, it is obvious that with a culinary journey that began under the mentorship of renowned chefs and led to leadership roles at acclaimed restaurants likeSeaspice and Komodo.

Some of the dishes that are included in the restaurant’s menu are A5 Grade Wagyu from and yummy dishes such as the Sticky Short Rib and Crispy Lobster.  The menu is extensive and there is something that will satisfy every palate and craving.

Mona Lisa

An offered experience that seems to be a highlight at Mona Lisa is the Caviar Bomba, a unique presentation dish that offers an interactive table-side caviar and tequila ritual. Those who enjoy top-notch spirits will be impressed with the extensive list of offerings, especially when it comes to their selection of Japanese whiskeys.

Mona Lisa also offers a collection of rare Clase Azulbottles, with some retailing close to $30,000. Keep that in mind for a special occasion, or maybe find a way to treat yourself?

As for the restaurant’s signature cocktails, I had the chance to try out their amazing version of a smoked old-fashioned, served artistically tableside inside a smoking box, one that showcases the cocktail and its elegance perfectly. I highly recommend it as one to begin your night with.

After dinner, you can keep the night going until the wee hours of the morning. The restaurant becomes a nightclub, one where dancing, live performances and fun are sure to be one of Mona Lisa’s top priorities once the night starts.

Once we left the venue, my husband and I were impressed with the service, environment, and artsy feel of the Mona Lisa. It’s a place that’s worth every visit.

For more information on Mona Lisa and to make reservations, visit https://www.monalisamiami.com/.

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Experience Exclusive and Upscale Dining at Brickell’s Dirty French Steakhouse https://lmgfl.com/experience-exclusive-and-upscale-dining-experience-at-brickells-dirty-french-steakhouse/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:23:00 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56644 The restaurant features a 700-plus-bottle wine list.

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When in Miami, you should always expect something new and surprising in Brickell. It’s just one fun fact that describes the area perfectly. Not only is Brickell a true gem in the Downtown Miami area, but it truly stands out on its own. It’s not only unique but has a sexy feel, a place where you can be anyone you want to be or who you are for a night. Or until the wee hours of the morning. The Brickell area is one where foodies and those who love the nightlife can escape to and quickly find what could be their new favorite place. For me, a current visit to Brickell meant finding what’s possibly one of my new favorite places. This place is one where nightlife and dining connect in new and unexpected ways, and it invites the eager and curious to come out and play.

That place is called Dirty French Steakhouse. And you had better go visit and get ready for an experience like no other that defines what it means to be classy, quirky and fun. A great mix for a night out.

When I stepped through the restaurant’s doors, I was greeted by immersive décor, such as plush zebra chairs and a disco ball-inspired dining room. And, the nicest staff, a group that warmly greeted us and could tell that we were truly excited for the night ahead.

While there, you can also expect a lot of energy. It’s the type of energy that tempts diners and revelers to stay the night, or as long as they are allowed to, especially when they see the restaurant’s jungle-inspired bar and lounge. It’s the perfect spot to start the night or finish it with a nightcap of your favorite classic cocktail or spirit.

Dirty French Steakhouse is place that comes from a lot of love and dedication, and a passion for the finest foods and the best environment possible. And this is thanks to those behind the creation of this concept.

Co-Founders Jeff Zalaznick,Mario Carbone, and Rich Torrisi decided that this was going to be a special place, and it shows. Not is this apparent and proven by the amazing environment that diners will enjoy, but also the well-selected and prepared food.

Dirty French Steakhouse Miami

The menu at the restaurant is one where you can scour and decide if you are having a perfect cut of meat or fresh fish. Just imagine a place where you can eat deliciously aged steaks, as well as sides that are meant to be shared.  From fresh oysters and other raw bar items, fresh lobster and even a delicious bone marrow dish, this is the place where you can explore new dishes and try something that you might have never enjoyed before.

My husband had and loved the restaurant’s Duck à l’Orange, which proved that they really know how to present a classic French dish with a twist, one that was full of flavor and presented with flair. The restaurant also offers nightly specials, so come ready to be surprised and awed by their different options. The evening that we were present to dine, there was a special and rare truffle sprinkled upon the pasta, making it one of my favorites of the night.

While there, I had a dirty martini, which is only one of the offered classic drinks on the menu. Their cocktail list also showcases unique drinks made by expert mixologists, many that you can enjoy during dinner and at the restaurant’s lounge.

Don’t be afraid to ask your server for a recommendation from their 700-plus-bottle wine list, which took several years to build and is as remarkable as any in the United States. We could tell that the selections were made with care, and the wines selected for us paired perfectly with their meal.

We ended our dining experience with the restaurant’s impressive sundae dessert. Served tableside, you can choose from toppings such as gummies and flavored sprinkles from a cart that is wheeled directly to your table. The dessert is purely a true celebration, and the perfect way to end a night and dinner that is as indulgent as it is fun.

Make sure to take the time to treat yourself. Dirty French Steakhouse is not just a restaurant, it is a place to escape from the usual and right into an era of excitement and an out of this world experience.

Dirty French Steakhouse proves that impeccable service, food and cocktails can make a place not only beautiful and fun, but also one that can make you feel like a pure superstar inside a place that glitters and shines with elite offerings.

For more information and to make a reservation, visit visit www.dirtyfrench.com.

Photo Credit: Douglas Friedman

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An Elegant Ambiance and Upscale Meal Awaits at Zucca in Coral Gables https://lmgfl.com/an-elegant-ambiance-and-upscale-meal-awaits-at-zucca-in-coral-gables/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:31:14 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56645 Zucca in Coral Gables is the type of restaurant that not only offers the type of ambiance where diners can escape from the bustle of the outside world but one that perfectly mixes elegance and fine food for those who visit. Not only does it feel like you step into a different world, but it does

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Zucca in Coral Gables is the type of restaurant that not only offers the type of ambiance where diners can escape from the bustle of the outside world but one that perfectly mixes elegance and fine food for those who visit. Not only does it feel like you step into a different world, but it does not shy away from offering a dining experience where elegance and great service meet right in the middle.

Recently, I had the chance to visit Zucca for dinner. While I was excited to visit, I was floored by the ambiance once I stepped inside. I promise you that you will feel the same way.

Not only does Zucca offer authentic Italian dishes, such as perfectly prepped pasta, but it also offers delicious steaks, steak carpaccio, and a delectable charcuterie board, which we tried during our visit.

That said, we recommend a visit to the restaurant for Miami Spice. The menu not only offers some of the greatest hits from their usually offered menu items but also some amazing cocktails and a selection of upscale wines by the bottle.

We had a chance to visit for dinner and were truly impressed by the elegant selections offered. At $60 per person for the three-course meal, it’s one of the best places to come before Miami Spice ends at the restaurant.

Zucca Coral Gables

However, this story is not strictly about the Miami affordable dining event. While we were there to sample the menu, the items were available beyond the restaurant event in the city. So, think about this story as one in which we recommend some of the items that we tried and enjoyed at the restaurant for dinner.

For appetizers, we truly enjoyed the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, made with white beech mushrooms, grana padano cheese, and summer truffles. Then there’s the Palline di Patate Croccante su Salmone Marinato, perfectly crispy potato balls with Parmigiano cream, prosciutto crudo, and truffled eggs.

When we got to our main course, we enjoyed Agnolotti Ripieno di Agnello, fresh agnolotti pasta filled with lamb, artichokes, and mint crema. We highly recommend the restaurant’s Flat Iron Steaka select cut of meat accompanied by potato croquettes, gorgonzola cheese, and cherry tomatoes.

As for dessert and cocktails, make sure try the Homemade Tiramisu, which is the sweetest way to end a meal. This one went lovely with one of the cocktail offerings on the menu, the White Wine Spritz with house white wine, lemon and Prosecco.

Top the night off with the restaurant’s Limoncello and maybe some Italian coffee and you’ll leave delighted after a fancy and beautiful culinary journey at Zucca in Coral Gables.

For more information and to make a reservation, visit https://zuccamiami.com/.

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Toro Toro at InterContinental Miami Offers Delectable Dishes in a Classy Ambiance https://lmgfl.com/toro-toro-at-intercontinental-miami-offers-delectable-dishes-in-a-classy-ambiance/ Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:16:57 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56598 Prepare for a memorable and elegant dining experience.

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Downtown Miami is an area that buzzes with pure energy. Not only do visitors enjoy when they arrive in South Florida, but locals also find a way to explore, especially to discover new and exciting places. This is a place where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll with a lot to see. This is all while they immerse themselves in an ambiance where the sparkling lights of the city, various dining establishments, museums and other forms of entertainment beckon at them for a visit. One place that tempts those who take the time to explore Downtown Miami is the restaurant Toro Toro at the InterContinenal Miami, one of the area’s top hotels.

To find Toro Toro is to discover a true gem, one that feels like an elegant surprise. And after you step into the hotel you will want to stay for one of the best dining experiences that we’ve recently have had.

As you enter the hotel’s double doors, you will sense the upbeat energy of the lobby. And, as you walk past those who occupy that area, you’ll quickly realize that this restaurant located at the end of the lobby is a truly magical escape.

Toro Toro comes to life with décor that can only be described as Miami Chic. Just think of leather couches and armchairs to lounge and sit on, all with wrought-iron and dark wood additions. The restaurant is not only a dining escape, but at times visitors can enjoy the beats of select high-energy music, all while people watching as they show off their best outfits and curious personalities. This makes it a unique dining experience in an environment meant to be enjoyed.

When it comes to saying that this is a unique dining experience, it’s all because the talented and acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval makes his dishes really shine, proving that everything is made with the utmost care. We just needed to meet him after realizing this right from the start once we indulged in fresh guacamole with crunchy chips as one of our appetizers, alongside their fresh tuna ceviche, to start our dining journey.

Tuna Cevice at Toro Toro
Tuna Cevice

In fact, once we enjoyed our appetizers and main entrees, we were quick to ask for him to visit us at our table to explain the art beyond dishes that show off his culinary expertise and passion for the craft. The chef not only mentioned that he’s always aimed to mix Pan-Latin flavors that are presented in an elegant and creative way but that he loves what he does and is humbled when diners who visit celebrate their night out at Toro Toro.

What makes Toro Toro special is that Sandoval’s dishes offer a perfectly thought-out twist when it comes to the food, but it also accompanies that dash of culinary fairy dust with an unexpected and elegant ambiance.

While the restaurant boasts a contemporary steakhouse experience with dishes that impress full of Pan-Latin flavors, it also is the perfect place to order more than one dish and share with your date, friend or special group.

It also offers the outmost professional service, which is a must for every restaurant visit. And this was proven by the dedicated manager and server, both who were extremely attentive on a busy Saturday night, making sure that our wines and cocktails paired perfectly with our dishes.

At the restaurant, we decided to enjoy two seemingly classic dishes at the restaurant. And we were impressed by our experience at the restaurant.

While there, I enjoyed one of the best Lomo Saltado dishes that I’ve experienced in a while.  The juicy and tender beef filet, served with creamy jasmine rice, heirloom tomatoes, and red onion with a dash of crispy potatoes, satisfied me, and those who enjoy this dish will be happy with the flavors and inventive way that it was presented to me. As for my husband, he decided on an 8 oz Wagyu Filet, one that also had the option of trying out the restaurant’s mole sauce, one that he was excited to experience and enjoy as a main entrée.

Lomo Saltado at Toro Toro
Lomo Saltado

Cocktails such as the restaurant’s Picado Paloma,a drink blended with tequila and red wine and garnished with Hibiscus sea salt was a great start of the night for me. Then, the beautifully selected Chardonnay and Cabernet wines to accompany our meal made our dining experience balanced and delicious.

We recommend not leaving without trying out one of the restaurant’s sweet desserts, such as Chocolatosa Cake, a flourless chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse dark chocolate ganache and topped off with a warm chocolate sauce. The dessert menu is full of delicious options to satisfy every palate, and we just had to enjoy one before exiting the restaurant.

A memorable and classy experience, dining at Toro Toro will impress and nurture your foodie heart. So, make sure to set aside time for a visit. You won’t regret it.

For more information and to make reservations, visit www.torotoromiami.com or call (305) 372-4710. Reservations can also be made in advance at OpenTable.

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Kojin2.0: An Exclusive and Hidden Gem in Coral Gables https://lmgfl.com/kojin2-0-an-exclusive-and-hidden-gem-in-coral-gables/ Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:13:34 +0000 https://lmgfl.com/?p=56592 The a la carte menu offers some of the restaurant’s staples.

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The street known as Ponce de Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables is a street that mixes elegant stores with magical and unique restaurants. It’s a street where you will be whisked away to a different world in a way, the type of place where history mingles with classy establishments and beautiful people roaming around. Not only that, but it’s a boulevard full of options for those who want to relax, unwind and enjoy something new. And sometimes, while there, you might find yourself stumbling right into a type of restaurant where cozy conversations, celebrations and special gatherings between friends and loved ones are welcome.

Are you looking for a restaurant like this to try out? Well, you are in luck.

Let me introduce you to Kojin2.0. Passionate foodies must pay this restaurant a visit, especially if they enjoy all the things mentioned above. And these specific elements are what makes this restaurant truly special.

Kojin2.0 is a restaurant that’s truly different from others, with the type of service that makes you feel like you are in your family’s kitchen, hanging out and having a conversation with the chef. Or, in this case, chefs.

Led by chef couple Pedro and Katherine Mederos, Kojin2.0 is the perfect place to explore a different side of Japanese food. The chefs are proud and focused on making sure that they utilize fresh and seasonal local ingredients in every dish that is served to their clients every evening. And they do so with pride.

The Mederos couple started this restaurant experience with the first Kojin, a pop-up restaurant that was only meant to last about three months in Miami’s Little River district. Now, a year after the closure of a place that was revered and respected by everyone who tried their food options, they have their own little space in Coral Gables to show off their culinary skills and serve hungry diners a delicious selection of Japanese food created with passion. It’s a different world now, a world where Chef Pedro has a chance to feed more than just those who perched themselves on the six-seat counter at the prior Kojin pop-up.

Yet, while the restaurant is not just a counter offering delicious bites, the environment is cozy, and it only seats 30 diners. So, we recommend making reservations in advance to enjoy the dining experience at this restaurant.

When my husband and I had the chance to experience a meal at Kojin2.0, we were greeted by a cheerful and comfortable space featuring a soft banquette and table seating. The feelings that you get once you visit are fuzzy ones, because we felt welcome as soon as we stepped in and got ready for the long-awaited main event of eating at the new spot.

Diners have the option of enjoying a journey of one of their three tasting menus. Each of them gives visitors a chance to try the restaurant’s varied food options and beverage options, such as perfectly selected sakes, wines and beers.

The starter version (Commis) comprised six courses for $85 per person. Then there’s the 12 or so course mid-level menu (Sous) at $145 per person. Lastly, for those seeking something very special, there’s the all-in menu (Executive) being offered, one that includes access to those two front-row counter seats, wine and sake pairings, and more surprises. Highly recommended for special celebrations, these menus give foodies a chance to have the best of the best selections to enjoy.

While at the restaurant, we felt like royalty. The a la carte menu is one that offers some of the restaurant’s staples. Some of the included ones on the menu of are a delicious brown butter brioche served with truffle honey butter and a flavor-packed sando. You can also enjoy thechicken or mushroom, a flavorful mix that includes slaw, tsukemono and soy egg. Many of these are great for the start of your dining experience.

Chicken Sando

We were impressed by the main courses that we tried as well as their general main course dishes. Just expect to be wooed by a fresh market fish, as well as a delectable Niman Ranch short rib with curry, carrots and celery root, among other options that will leave you satisfied with your meal and evening.

Oh, and please don’t leave without trying the already crowd favorite, Kojin Caesar, a perfect mix of local greens, katsumirim (a bonito flake studded salad topping) nori and smoked trout roe. It was a true highlight for me!

End your dining experience with a delicious dessert such as a rich chocolate tart with miso, caramel and dulce de leche. And please remember to request some perfect wine and sake pairings throughout your dine. It was one of the best things that we did, since each selection offered enhanced every bite.

It’s time to treat yourself to a special and unique experience at Kojin2.0. It’s unforgettable and you’ll find yourself recommending that others do the same.

For more information and reservations, call 786- 747-1404, visit their website www.kojin2.com and follow them on social media @kojin2.0.

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