Adventures of the Foodaholic and Caviar Chronicles Host Happy Hour at the Mayfair in Coconut Grove

What do you get when you put together a rocking pool rooftop with a breathtaking view of the city, complimentary appetizers, a welcome glass of champagne and unbelievable drink specials on a Sunday afternoon? A Happy Hour party Miami style.

Alexandria from Caviar Chronicles and I hosted a pool party happy hour on the rooftop of the historic Mayfair Hotel & Spa in Coconut Grove, on Sunday, January 26th; kicking off 2014 with a splash. The weather was perfect, the company was top-notch and everyone enjoyed the afternoon sipping bubbly and cocktails and savoring ceviche, sushi and other yummies.  A live DJ provided entertainment to keep the energy going, while complimentary petit-massages were given poolside. It was a day to remember and one we'll have to repeat real soon. A big thank you to everyone who came out! Check out the photo gallery below.

Photo Gallery

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La Tagliatella

When I walked into La Tagliatella, located at 301 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, the first thing that jumped out at me was the rich and opulent decor that temporarily transported me to Italy. While some may consider it a bit gaudy, I found it to be elegant, and it was obviously designed with remarkable attention to detail. If you've been to The Forge in South Beach, La Tagliatella may remind of you of this popular restaurant with its deep colors and larger-than-life furniture. It is part of a very successful European franchise initially founded in 1991, that currently has over 150 locations in the world; four of which are in the United States.

Several food writers were invited to sample their cuisine, and get a taste of their eclectic take on Northern Italian recipes. Aside from signature entrees and Napoletano-style pizzas, La Tagliatella also offers a vast wine list that features top Italian choices. They pride themselves in using key ingredients that are carefully sourced from a network of small growers and manufacturers throughout Italy.

Great service! The Pera Rosamarino
was insane

Expresso Martini

After tasting several dishes, I have to say I had some favorites that were well balanced in flavor and texture, and some that while creatively prepared, did not impress me. However, what blew my mind away completely were their cocktails. Absolutely perfect! Their mixologist is a winner and truly made the evening stand out. My top pick for the night was the Pera Rosamarino, a sweet concoction made with Vodka, Pear Nectar, Lemon, Simple Syrup and Rosemary. But let's get straight to the food porn.

Here are some of the dishes we sampled. I've labeled my favorites **Top Pick** as these were the ones I personally enjoyed most. Try not to drool on your keyboard.

Torre di Pisa - A tower of sauteed eggplant, zucchini,
and tomatoes layered with fresh mozzarella and black
olive pate

Handcrafted Meatballs - Homemade sausage and beef
meatballs, seasoned with garlic, oregano and Grana
Padano cheese.

Tagliatella Pizza -  a perfect combination of paper thin,
fried eggplant with Parmigiano-Reggiano then drizzled
with honey and a balsamic glaze.  **Top Pick**

Pasta Carbonara - topped with an egg and cheese

Carpaccio Pepe Nero - Beef Tenderloin seasoned with black
pepper and finished with shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano
**Top Pick**

Napoletano Brochette - A hanging skewered pork, nicely
presented, and served with a special Tagliatella sauce
and fried gnocchi  (I could have done without the fried gnocchi
but the meat and sauce were excellent). **Top Pick**

Chef Antonio's Citrus and Dill Salmon - Marinated with
fresh citrus and dill, baked and served with with vegetables
and potatoes

Torta Rocher - a smooth and decadent wedge of hazelnut and
chocolate deliciousness **Top Pick**

Tiramisu - more of a mousse than a traditional tiramisu,
it was light, with only a touch of lady fingers.

Boccocino -  Creamy cheesecake topped with a caramel custard

For more information on La Tagliatella, or to make reservations, you can contact them at 786-464-0516.

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