Loved My #PricelessMiami Experience With #MiamiSpice at Rosa Mexicano-Brickell #MC

I am a member of the Collective Bias Social Fabric Community. I have been compensated to share my experience with you by Collective Bias, and their client, MasterCard.

Rosa Mexicano Brickell 

You know how I excited I have been with Miami Spice. I feel that my restaurant list of must-do's grows and grows each year, and no matter how hard I try, I seldom get to sample all of the Miami menus I'd like to. Imagine how thrilled I was to find out the immense amount of opportunities available for Priceless Miami MasterCard members to take full advantage of everything the Miami fine dining scene has to offer. For example, depending on the restaurant, member specials may include a percentage off of the meal, exclusive menus, complimentary items and priority seating.

Priceless Miami MasterCard Website

  

Since MasterCard is one of the sponsors of Miami Spice, I was excited when I realized that as a MasterCard holder, I had all of the information I needed on this promotion, right at my fingertips. After some website surfing, I embarked on my next culinary adventure to Rosa Mexicano, the popular Mexican restaurant located at the Mary Brickell Village, at 900 South Miami Avenue. I hadn't been there in quite a while and must admit I was salivating just looking at their menu online. While I was surfing the Priceless Miami site, I found another awesome benefit about the experience. You can actually book your Miami Spice reservations right on their site and save time. That's a plus for me!

Taking the plunge

Rosa Mexicano has a very warm feel with a contemporary look. I loved the wall fountain at the entrance of the dining room, where miniature divers are taking a plunge. We were seated immediately, which was a fabulous thing, because I was famished. The Miami Spice menu at Rosa Mexicano offers a bit of a different take on the options. Instead of having just the usual appetizer, entrée and dessert section, there is also a beverage section which includes Margaritas, Beer and Wine. Guests can choose which three items they want to combine for their Miami Spice dinner.

Guac-making that brought hungry tears of joy to my eyes

Remembering their Guacamole is notorious (and being the die-hard fan I am of the green fruit), I knew what my appetizer would be. I will tell you the other choices sounded good too: Queso Fundido (Melted Cheese Fondue), Flautas de Pollo (Rolled Crispy Chicken Tacos) and Sopa de Tortilla (Tortilla Soup). Since there were two of us, we thought we'd each order a different appetizer and share. It turns out though, if you order the Guacamole, it counts as two appetizers, therefore, we either had to both choose it or pay extra. Although I was a bit confused about the guac situation at first, I saw the table next to ours having theirs made tableside and it was a pretty hefty portion. Without further thought, we were sold: Guac it was for the both of us. We couldn't have been happier! The Guacamole was creamy and smooth, prepared with the freshest of Hass avocadoes, a twinge of jalapeno, tomato, onion and cilantro. It was served with warm corn tortilla chips, Salsa Pasilla de Oaxaca and a mildly spicy Salsa de Tomatillo y Habanero. As the guacamole was prepared next to us, I noticed it was made a bit different than how I usually make it (and though I'll never admit it publicly, it tasted better) so I got some quick tips I plan to use at home very soon.

Shrimp Brochette

Next up were our entrees. There are four choices and they all come served with family-style refried black beans and house rice. We decided on the Shrimp Brochette and the All-Natural Skirt Steak "Skillet Style". The Shrimp Brochette was colorfully plated with a large skewer of five tender grilled shrimp, tomatoes, onions and Serrano peppers. They were served over an enticing poblano pepper cream sauce that was good enough to eat with a spoon. The strips of Skirt Steak were perfectly marinated, and sat on an extremely flavorful Chihuahua cheese. On the side were two small bowls holding grilled Mexican street corn and chorizo chili, along with warm corn tortillas. It all came together nicely, with a little kick that made you yell out "Hijole".

All-Natural Skirt Steak "Skillet Style

Since we ordered our Margaritas and beer separately, we opted to complete our Miami Spice dinner with dessert.  The two menu items are Flan de Rosa (Espresso Flan) and Homemade Ice Creams and Sorbets. This time we were able to each pick one and sample both. The Espresso Flan was actually a Vanilla flan infused with espresso, served on a warm, thin ancho chile brownie and topped with Mexican cinnamon whipped cream. Need I say more? It was Priceless! For the ice creams and sorbets, guests can choose three out of four flavors. We chose the Mexican Chocolate, Sea Salt Cajeta and their Seasonal Sorbet, which happened to be Mango. They were all refreshing and delightful to the palate, so it was hard to pick a winner.

Espresso Flan

With only a few days left for the Miami Spice promotion (it ends on September 30th), it is time to put the pedal to the metal and get out there to as many participating restaurants as you can. The promotion is one of those Miami events that takes fine dining to new heights; all at an affordable price. Couple that with the incredible credit card rewards you get with the Priceless Miami MasterCard experience, and you got yourself not only an opportunity to have a memorable eating out adventure but also a wealth of other offerings such as spa specials (I can use one of those now that Miami Spa Month is gone), discounts at popular attractions around town, preferred seating at shows and concerts, free nights and other amenities during your travels, and much more. (Guys, there are a bunch of VIP experiences at sports events for you too!)

Homemade Ice Creams and Sorbets

So you see, hop on over and check out all the fun and savings you can have using Priceless Miami with MasterCard and see how easy it can make your Miami Spice experience, as well as any other way you want to play in the Magic City! If you're in the mood for some Mexican and want to get a taste of Rosa Mexicano on Brickell, you can call them at 786-425-1001.

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Miami Culinary Tours - Little Havana Food Tour

With Mr. Pedro Bello

Cheesing!

Bet you didn't know that Mr. Pedro Bello, the owner of Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co., is the most photographed man on Calle Ocho. Or that nowadays there is more than just Dominoes being played at Domino Park. Abuelitos can also impress the masses with their chess skills or try their hand at cards. Well I learned a lot of this and more just a couple of weeks ago at the Little Havana food tour offered by Miami Culinary Tours.

Street Mural

Calle Ocho

And we're off...

Miami Culinary Tours is a food tour adventure that features the very best Miami has to offer in all of its melting pot glory. Incorporating hidden gems that serve authentic cuisine with a scoop of history makes it an entertaining, delicious way to learn about the Magic City. Not only is it a must-do for tourists, but it is also a refreshing way for locals to reconnect with the city and its roots. I enjoyed the South Beach tour a few months ago and couldn't wait to check out its Little Havana counterpart. While I am a Miami girl all the way, I haven't been to Little Havana in quite some time and from the moment I parked and walked over to our meeting place, I have to say that I felt that Cubanometer spike up.

Domino Park

Steven, our tour guide, was a walking encyclopedia of interesting information from beginning to end. He pointed out the very window on 8th Street and 15th Avenue where the Bay of Pigs Invasion was planned so many years ago and the impressive Ceiba tree where many Santeria followers come to leave their offerings. But from the colorful past that made Little Havana the much visited eclectic neighborhood it is today, we found our way to the present, engulfed in stories of hope, promise and ultimately a new home.

Some serious cigar rolling at Cuba Tobacco Cigar Co.

Steven, our tour guide

Latin Walk of Fame

Although the focus of the tour was to get a taste of the Cuban food so central to Little Havana, we also visited several art galleries and had the opportunity to chat with the artists themselves. We got to see cigars being rolled in the age-old Cuban tradition that somehow escapes political opinions and the passing of time. And of course, as we walked through Miami's version of the Walk of Fame and admired the stars of Celia Cruz and Willy Chirino, we got a glimpse of the first theater in the U.S. to play English movies with Spanish subtitles.

El Pub and the signature chickens of Little Havana

Mural honoring Cuba in El Pub

Meat Empanadas

But what about the food, you ask? That definitely did not disappoint. We started at El Pub, and indulged in a flavorful and juicy meat empanada generously filled with picadillo, or ground beef. We also sampled a Toston Relleno, or fried plantain, topped with chicken. To enhance the experience, we sipped on a refreshing Presidente Beer. El Pub has an old-world charm to it, showcasing Cuban paraphernalia, such as old menus, that pay homage to the land. I half expected its 86 year old owner, who happens to work everyday, to walk in at any point and say hello.

Tostones Rellenos

Media Noche

Mariquitas

From there, we walked on over to El Exquisito, a hidden gem that I found to offer one of the best Media Noches, or Midnight Sandwiches, I've put in my mouth. Buttery bread, lots of ham and a nice helping of pork smiled back at us, while we bit into the crunchy Mariquitas (Plantain Chips). As we strolled to our next stop, we visited Domino Park for a few minutes. I have to say this was a sentimental part of the tour for me, as I remembered the sweet times when my father used to come and play here. A few moments later we were munching on Guava Pastries and drinking a nice, hot Colada at Yisell Bakery.

Guava Pastries

Fruit at Los Pinarenos

Decisions Decisions

As you may know fruit are very important to the Latin community, so the tour wouldn't be complete if it didn't include a stop at a Fruit Stand. Los Pinarenos served us a cup of traditional Guarapo, or sugar cane juice. This was the perfect thirst quencher in the sizzling Miami heat, as we marveled at the selection of plump, fresh fruit they offered. You're wondering about dessert, aren't you? Well, that was a treat all on its own. Steven took us to Azucar Ice Cream Company, a cultural explosion that has been a part of Little Havana for roughly two years, and offers tropical flavors Cuban grandmothers would go nuts over: Abuela Maria, Cafe con Leche and Platano Maduro to name a few. It was interesting to learn that each time the owner would discover a new flavor, she'd test it by crossing the street and taking samples to the abuelitos at Domino Park. No better experts, huh? I loved the Dulce de Leche; it was a delightful artisanal confection I will be repeating very soon.

Azucar Ice-Cream Company

Bay of Pigs Monument

Little Havana
Welcome Committee

By the time we finished our tour, I was excited to return to a part of town I had somehow forgotten. Along the way, I came across several restaurants I can't wait to visit. I noticed Steven was great at giving tips to the tourists that asked for specific suggestions, so whether you're in town for a few days or call Miami home, this is one tour you'll want to check out. For more information, visit Miami Culinary Tours online.

Giveaway Time!

Do you want to experience this cultural, good-eating fun for yourself? Well I'm giving away a certificate for 2 people to participate in a Miami Culinary Tour and you can enter two ways. (Woo Hoo! More chances to win!)

1) Comment on this post: When was the last time you went to Little Havana and what did you do?

2) Tweet: I entered to #win 2 tickets to a @MIACulinaryTour from @mariasgoodtaste http://adventuresofthefoodaholic.blogspot.com/2013/09/miami-culinary-tours-little-havana-food.html #giveaway

** Please make sure you are following @mariasgoodtaste on Twitter. Winner will be selected Wednesday, October 16th at noon!! Happy Eating!

Congratulations to Christina Armenti (@GetRealForLife on Twitter) for winning the gift certificate for 2 to Miami Culinary Tours. I will be giving away another certificate so stay tuned for the details starting this Friday, October 18th.

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Kegs & Eggs Brunch at Brother Jimmy's BBQ

Can you think of a word that rhymes with "eggs"? How about "kegs"? I bet you're thinking that's an unlikely pair but in fact, the twosome make for quite a memorable brunch. I was recently invited to a chillaxing get together hosted by Miami's favorite fashion blogger, Rosie Cordero, at Brother Jimmy's Barbeque in the Mary Brickell Village. While I've put some south in my mouth a few times before, I'd never tried their relatively new Kegs and Eggs Brunch, happening at the BBQ haven every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00-3:00 pm.

Brunching with the ladies

They weren't kidding when
they said Unlimited Mimosas

Getting the party started with
BJ's famous corn bread

Imagine unlimited mimosas and yes - beer, along with some southern, down-home brunch favorites. I had a hard time choosing from the menu because, let's face it, how do you reasonably pick between Chicken and Waffles and Carolina Benedict? That's like having to pick a favorite between two of your own children. So we decided to put the age-old quote to use and practice the "sharing is caring" philosophy; all the while sipping on our bottomless mimosas which never stopped flowing.

Chicken and Waffles

Carolina Benedict

While we waited for the feast to begin, we munched on Brother Jimmy's famous corn bread and maple butter. The pieces practically dissolve in your mouth so make sure you set a limit for yourself because once you start, it will be hard to stop. The first entree we sampled was The Chicken and Waffles. The plate featured a colorful delight of homemade belgium waffles topped with bits of hickory smoked bacon with red, plump strawberries alternating between boneless pieces of fried chicken. The ensemble was drizzled with their very own Bourbon BBQ maple syrup. Ta da! Next, we bit into the Carolina Benedict. This BJ version of the popular brunch dish was prepared starting with two pieces of their signature corn bread, and then topped with flavorful and smoky pulled pork, 2 poached eggs, and chipotle BBQ hollandaise sauce. It was served with their famous home fries and some fruit. I"ll tell you this one rocked my world.

A shot of bourbon infused with bananas? Yes please!

Home Fries

Stuffed French Toast

Because the home fries were so finger-licking good, I ordered an extra side. I mean this whole sharing thing can be a bit overrated when you want hands off your favorites. Which brings me to another awesome brunch pick at Brother Jimmy's: The Stuffed French Toast. Picture thick slices of Challah bread stuffed with peanut butter and raspberry preserves, then dipped in a sweet batter and topped with confectionary sugar. On the side? Some fruit and warm maple syrup.

Bloody Mary

Just when I thought I couldn't ingest anymore, liquid or solid, I overheard some talk about their Bloody Mary. I had hit the ball and run the bases but it was time to take it home. I have to be thorough for you guys, right? Down went the refreshing concoction. It was perfect with just the right amount of kick to keep the blood flowing and the tongue happy.  In case you're wondering how much the brunch costs, it is $29.99 for unlimited mimosas and beer plus one entree. If you haven't tried the Kegs and Eggs at Brother Jimmy's BBQ, you should definitely give it a shot, or two, or three.

For more information, you can visit them online at http://www.brotherjimmys.com/ or call them at 786-360-3650.

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Toscana Divino - Miami Spice

So you know how when you're watching the Super Bowl and they put Coca Cola commercials, you suddenly get thirsty and want to grab a bottle? Well, recently I was at Channel 10 at the filming of a live segment they've been doing on the Sunday morning news, featuring restaurants who are participating in the Miami Spice promotion. I was watching Executive Chef Julian Baker from Toscana Divino, located at 900 South Miami Avenue in the Mary Brickell Village, cook up one of the dishes the restaurant is offering during this foodie time of the year.  Not only that, but besides the tender, flaky Mediterranean fish Chef Julian was grilling, there were also a mirage of dishes sitting on the set that are also part of the Miami Spice menu. It isn't difficult to see why after smelling the enticing aroma that filled Local 10's studio, and mildly drooling at the sight of these dishes, I headed over to Toscana Divino (more like ran) to get a taste for myself. By the way, here's a look at Chef Julian with during the live taping of the segment.

Chef Julian Baker with Todd Tongen and Neki Mohan

I first noticed Toscana Divino's Miami Spice menu when I was researching which restaurants I wanted to check out during August and September. After enjoying a most scrumptious brunch there, I was curious as to what delights they offered for dinner. The menu itself sounded fascinating, with an interesting array of choices and ingredient combinations I definitely wanted to try. Seriously impressed with the quality of their food, inviting ambiance and dedicated service, the excitement grew. But let me recap their Miami Spice menu for you just to give you an idea:

Appetizers:

Antipasto for the Table

Pistacchio Mortadella with Focaccia

or

Insalata di Granchio

Pacific Stone Crab, Soy Chili Dressing, Asian Pear, Pickled Mustard Seed Aioli

or

Acqua Cotta

Tomato, Onion and Celery Broth, Organic Poached Egg

Behold the Insalata di Granchio. This is one dish that you'll want to have over and over again. I loved the way Chef Julian played with the sweet and succulent flavor of the Pacific Stone Crab and enhanced it with the saltiness of the Soy Chili Dressing. Then, out of nowhere, tickled our palate by enveloping the meat with a  juicy, sweet Asian pear. Genius!

  
Entrees:



Tagliatelle Ai Funghi

Housemade Tagliatelle, field mushrooms, nepitella, butter and parmesan

or

Tortelli Burro E Salvia

Bufala Ricotta Cheese and Spinach Filled Tortelli, Sage Butter Sauce

or

Orata

Grilled Seabream with Capers and Parsley Oily

or

Guanciale Di Vitello

Braised Veal Cheek, Celery Root Puree, Beer Braised Onion, Hazelnut

The Tortelli Burro E Salvia is a must! It's the best I've had in everything from the texture to the taste. Filled with creamy Bufala Ricotta Cheese and Spinach, it practically melted in my mouth. The rich and savory Sage Butter Sauce added a nutty finish to the creation.

Dessert:

Torta Di Pistacchio

Pistacchio Olive Oil Polenta Cake, Raspberry
or

Affogato Al Café

Coffee ice-cream, amaretto biscuit, espresso, vanilla whipped cream

I "drowned" in pleasure with the Affogato al Cafe; my love for Toscana Divino eternally sealed. The sweet, refreshing treat with a delizioso kick is an Italian dream come true.

One of my top picks for 2013, Toscana Divino has outdone themselves with this Miami Spice menu. And it doesn't stop there. Come for Miami Spice, and then return for their regular menu. It's solid! I'll just leave you with some food porn of a few of my other faves from both the Miami Spice and the regular menu. For more information, visit their website at http://www.toscanadivino.com/index.php or call 305-371-2767.

Ceviche di Gamberi Rossi Toscana

Carpaccio di Branzino

                            

Maltagliati Ai Frutti di Mare (Available in Miami Spice Lunch Menu)

                           

Tiramisu

OR                                            

Torta di Pistacchio

Semifreddo

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