Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove New Pop-Up Restaurant - A Passage to India

Traveling to India has never been easier, at least in the culinary sense. The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, located at 3300 S.W. 27th Avenue, has launched a new Pop-Up restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine in a sultry, unbelievable ambiance. A Passage to India: An Authentic Indian Pop-Up Restaurant, spearheaded by Executive Chef Ramesh Kaduru, just opened on Thursday, October 3rd in their well known signature restaurant, Bizcaya.

Inspired by the foods, flavors and culture of Chennai, India, Kaduru brings a touch of his hometown to Miami through authentic spices and aromatic herbs. A part of the Ritz-Carlton family for over ten years, Kaduru has orchestrated culinary masterpieces for Indian weddings throughout several of the properties. His expertise in Indian cuisine has brought him here, to Coconut Grove, to entice Miamians with the original flavors and ingredients of the most exotic of dishes, by marrying tradition with a modern flair.

With Executive Chef Ramesh Kaduru

To our surprise and amazement, we were welcomed by a couple of regal camels who were very well behaved and more than happy to pose for our photographs. In true Ritz-Carlton style, we started off the evening with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, while we were led to our tables by gracious hostesses wearing traditional Indian garb.  

It was a Happy Hump Day!

The moment we stepped into A Passage to India, we were immediately transported into the mysterious land where time and civilizations intermix; a place where rich, vibrant hues permeate through layers of shimmering multicolor fabrics and plush pillows. Our visit was a preview to what lay ahead; an opportunity to taste the flavors the night before the official opening, and experience what this temporary restaurant would offer.

Luxurious and colorful decor

Detail in every corner

Mango Lassi

Judging from the oohs and aahs, it was evident that everyone was blown away by the decor showcasing rich blue and green drapes, majestic umbrellas hanging from the ceilings, and a large screen playing scenes from Bollywood movies. We got to experience some of the live entertainment that will be featured on selected nights and it was astounding to see the level of detail that went into the creation of this pop-up. Served on the tables were different types of traditional breads and dips to satisfy every palate and a sweet, refreshing shot of Mango Lassi.

Table Setting and Assorted Dips

Our dinner was served family style and each dish reflected its own medley of flavors and spices. Take a virtual journey with me to A Passage to India and get a glimpse of what you can expect to taste.

Dal ke Shorba, Crispy Papadam 

Roasted Red and Golden Beet Salad
Paneer Cream, Petite Greens, Citrus Vinaigrette

Saffron Basmati Rice Layered with Vegetables

Aloo Choole
Potato Chick Pea Stew

Malai Kofta Curry
Potato and Cheese Dumplings, Cashew Fondue

Mughlai Chicken
Tandoori Chicken, Butter Masala

Masala Shrimp
Goan-Style Shrimp, Do Pyaaza

Dessert
Gulab Jamun
Warm Dumplings, Rose Scented Syrup, Vanilla Ice-Cream and
Ras Malai
Cardamon, Pistachio Sorbet

Wonderful Not-To-Be-Missed Experience

Hurry! A Passage to India will only be around from October 3rd through November 3rd. It will be open from Thursday-Sunday, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm,. Reservations are strongly recommended. But that's not all. If you want to try to recreate some of these dishes at home, Chef Kaduru is offering intimate cooking demonstrations in the private dining room that will include tasty bites, appetizer and entree. For more information, visit the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove online or contact them at 305-644-4680.

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Edge Steak & Bar - Miami Spice

The Miami Spice adventures continue and one place whose menu I was itching to check out was EDGE Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons located at 1435 Brickell Avenue.  I'm a die hard fan of Chef Aaron Brooks and whether it's literally pigging out at their Sunday Brunch or going raw with one of their tartars during dinner, I just can't get enough.

So it's safe to say that it's really no surprise that EDGE has become quite a powerhouse among local foodies and tourists alike. The food is consistently good, the drinks are solid and the service is great. The question would then be, does their Miami Spice menu capture that? The answer is an unwavering "hell yeah".

Croquetas

Terrine

Bring on the starters. There are three options to choose from: Croquetas, Terrine or Red Salad. Since there were two of us, we shared the Croquetas and the Terrine. The croquetas were creamy and flavorful, made with chicken and truffle, and served on a shallow pool of carrot puree and parsley salad. The Terrine was unbelievable. A square of pure ecstasy, combining the distinct tastes of pork and duck with just the right combination of fatty decadence, sat on a platter awaiting our eager forks. We topped each slice of grilled bread with the jellied treat, a sliver of preserved peppers and a dollop of spicy mustard. Bam! What's that behind the Terrine, you ask? Well, it's no other than EDGE's Don't Ask Don't Tell; one of their signature cocktails. Of course cocktails are usually not included in the Miami Spice promotion but you have to have a couple when you come here. Since I couldn't help but down it rather quickly (I love sweet drinks), I thought I'd try Edge of the Moon, Four Seasons Miami's "100 Mile" cocktail. The Four Seasons brand started a program last year to carry the farm-to-table concept beyond their food, to their drinks, by featuring one cocktail per hotel which would source all the ingredients from within 100 miles. Flagler Lighting Moonshine, Mango, Key Lime, Strawberry, and Mint were the magic ingredients in Edge of the Moon and they had Florida written all over them. It was rich and thick and reminded me of a refreshing smoothie with a welcoming alcohol kick.

Edge of the Moon

Mahi Mahi

Lamb

On to the entrees we went. The menu offers Mahi Mahi, Lamb, Beef or Green Gnocchi. The preparation sounded fabulous on all four so we had to think about it for a while. We finally decided on the Mahi Mahi and the Lamb. The grilled Mahi Mahi was tender and flaky, served over an eggplant puree with slow cooked heirloom tomatoes and country olives. It was amazing. The lamb was bold and packed with flavor. Braised for hours with chipotle and spices, it gave the word "hot" a brand new meaning. The tasty meat was served with whole grain salad, fragrant herbs and a spoonful of yogurt and the combination of each ingredient created a unique symphony with each bite.

Cherry Bomb

Peanut Butter and Jelly

The desserts were just as impressive as the first two courses. There are two to choose from: Cherry Bomb or Peanut Butter and Jelly. Both are incredibly creative and sinfully delicious. The Cherry Bomb consisted of a black cherry bubble and pistachio pound cake crowned with vanilla bean ice-cream. The texture was perfect and the taste was just the right amount of sweet. The Peanut Butter and Jelly was a playful twist on a comforting favorite. A pyramid of peanut butter mousse covered a light and moist banana financier alongside a sweet strawberry gelee. All I can say is that after we were done, I wanted to rewind and start all over again.

This is definitely a Miami Spice must-do for 2013 and I highly recommend it. Their Miami Spice menu has a lot of varied options and it is an excellent representation of the superb quality of their full menu.  For more information on EDGE Steak & Bar, visit their website at
http://www.edgerestaurantmiami.com/.

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Baoli Miami

Think of Cannes, the Cote d' Azur and the French Riviera. Now add a little of the Miami bling bling and you have Baoli Miami, located at 1906 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. One of four venues around the world operated by the Baoli Group, Baoli Miami is a restaurant and night club that offers Mediterranean cuisine influenced by the Orient.  It is the Magic City's own version of the jet-setter, celebrity favorite, tailored after the elegant supper clubs in France.  The outdoor courtyard offers a charming, French feel that transforms in the evenings to a vibrant party scene while the inside exudes a more intimate setting.

Head Chef Gustavo Vertone has recently revamped the menu, infusing a strong Asian influence into the globally inspired dishes. Along with Nobu's former sushi chef,  Fnu "Danie" Armandani,
Vertone has added a myriad of sushi rolls to the already extensive menu,  taking guests on a magical journey through several continents during their multi-course dinner.

I recently visited Baoli and indulged in a variety of their extravagant dishes, exotic cocktails and sophisticated ambiance. I have to say that the first thing that blew me away, besides the décor, was a new, refreshing cocktail I had at the bar. Crystal Passion, a sinful combination of caramel vodka, passion fruit puree, and fresh lime juice, kept most of us buzzing around the table. Served in a large cognac glass with crunched ice and a star fruit slice, it left a sweet taste in my mouth that, for some reason, reminded us all of butterscotch. I can't remember a cocktail I've enjoyed quite as much as this one.

Crystal Passion

  

But on to the food - it was August 6th and the jump start of an incredible promotion at Baoli where the new menu items are offered at half-price every Tuesday. In addition to the half-priced menu, Tuesdays also bring a unique wine specially selected by the sommelier and a cocktail list with preferential pricing (Again, I highly recommend the Crystal Passion). This special promotion is being offered through October 29th, so don't wait too long to take advantage of it. It's one of those experiences you'll want to try more than once.

I figure you probably want to see for yourself what it is I'm talking about so let me give you a glimpse into Baoli by parading a few of the memorable plates. Oh and please don't blame me for any refrigerator raids that occur from this point forward.

Foie Gras au Torchon 
Terrine of foie gras on a brioche, served with fruit and 
figs compote 

Ahi Tuna Tartare
Fresh diced tuna mixed with avocado and kimchee lime 
dressing, and served with artisan sesame sticks and a side of caviar
My all-time favorite!

Ceviche Mixto
Hamachi tuna, scallops, shrimp and Maine lobster, combined
with rocoto lime sauce and served with crispy plantain chips
This one flew off the plates!

Burrata & Tomato
Heirloom tomatoes sit under a creamy Buffala Mozzarella,
 accompanied by olives, and drizzled with evvo

Roasted Beets
Yellow and red beets artfully served with feta cheese and 
bathed with orange miso sauce

Grilled Tiger Prawns
Yakiniku BQ with smoky citrus soy sauce

Rack of Lamb
Flavorful herbs and so tender it practically fell of the bone

Filet Mignon - All the meat is Certified Angus Beef

Miso Broiled Sea Bass
Unbelievable Chilean sea bass with bok choy, shitake and clear ocean broth

Australian Kobe Wagyu - Juicy and served with a creme of truffles

Hamachi Jalapeno 
Light sushi roll prepared with soy paper, chopped Hamachi,
jalapeno garlic, cilantro, cucumber, avocado and wasabi mayo

Black Truffle Risotto- Served in a Parmesan Wheel
Aquarello Organic rice with porcini broth and Mascarpone
and topped with Black Truffle shavings
One of my favorites of the night!

Whole Grilled Branzino
Prepared table side and served with steamed veggies

Sauteed Dover Sole
Prepared table side with lemon caper sauce and vegetable tempura

Truffled Mac & Cheese - Mouthwatering - Must Have!

Sampling of Desserts - Artwork or Heavenly Bliss?
 My favorites were the Warm Chocolate Fondant and Banana Rum Cake
Fireworks and all!

For more information on Baoli Miami, visit their website at www.baolimiami.com/.

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Miami Spice at Atrio at the Conrad-Miami Hotel in Brickell

What goes perfect with unparalleled service and impressive food? A great view! My first pick for this year's Miami Spice is Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room at the Conrad Miami Hotel located at 1395 Brickell Avenue. Atrio is a luxurious restaurant in the trendy yet sophisticated area of Brickell, offering panoramic views of the city and bay area. Its beautiful decor personifies unpretentious elegance, with a warm and inviting feel.

As I rode the elevator up to the 25th floor, I saw the Miami Spice menu displayed on the wall. Usually, I know right away what dishes I want to try because not all of them will appeal to me. However, the first thing that jumped out on our high speed ride was that the choices they offer for each course of the Miami Spice menu all sound amazing. And on top of that madness, you could also choose a select wine pairing for just $6 a glass.  Me likey already!

We sat down next to the floor-to-ceiling window and admired the view, while our incredibly knowledgeable and friendly waiter, Shane, gave us an in-depth description of the preparation of each dish. Wow! I can get used to this. There were a few of us having dinner together, so since we really wanted to try everything, we each ordered something different. You know what they say, sharing is caring.

Almond  & Grape Gazpacho

Goat Cheese Salad

Atrio offers the same Miami Spice menu for both lunch and dinner, so let's start with the appetizers. The selections are Almond & Grape Gazpacho, Salmon & Grouper Carpaccio, and Goat Cheese Salad. All three are winners. I'm not talking about just taste either - the presentation is remarkable. The Almond & Grape Gazpacho is completely unique and fun. It actually consists of a fried shrimp, grapes and mixed greens salad on one side of the dish with a shot of gazpacho on the other. So you eat it by taking alternating bites and sips. Think of it as a "deconstructed" gazpacho. It was extremely refreshing and flavorful. The Salmon & Grouper Carpaccio is equally as alluring. Thinly sliced pieces of salmon and grouper are artfully arranged on the plate, and topped with a fine herb sorbet. My first observation was that it totally awakened my palate, providing an aromatic, cooling array of flavors. Perhaps one of my favorites of the night. The Goat Cheese Salad was another fresh start to the meal, expertly pairing fried chunks of tangy, goat cheese, with the crispness of organic greens sourced from Paradise Farms. I loved the touches of roasted beets and crunchy pecans which added more depth and texture to the experience, and found the dressing to be phenomenal. They certainly know how to put together an opening course befitting the culture and feel of Miami at Atrio. All of these choices were perfect summer dishes.

Salmon & Grouper Carpaccio

Seared Scallops

Mushroom Cannelloni

The second course offerings were as exquisite as the first, providing a delectable option for every preference. They include Seared Scallops, Glazed Kurobuta Pork Belly, and Mushroom Cannelloni. The Seared Scallops were buttery and soft, sitting on a nice, creamy and smooth cauliflower mousseline, and topped with a cardamon cloud. The cardamon gave the tender scallops an intensely fragrant character that seemed to warm the taste buds with every bite. The Glazed Kurobuta Pork Belly was, how should I say, a masterpiece. Oozing in superior taste, texture and marbling, it was the kind of dish you savor with your eyes closed. Difficult to describe with just one adjective, I have to alternate between crispy, tender, chewy and sweet. It was served with crispy octopus and mascarpone polenta, all coming together like a loving family on Christmas morning. Can it get any more genius than that? For those preferring a meatless or vegetarian alternative, the Mushroom Cannelloni would be spot on. Served in a creamy gorgonzola sauce, the strong flavors of the sauce balanced the earthiness of the mushrooms in pure, gastronomic harmony.

Glazed Kurobuta Pork Belly

Peach Trifle

Exotic Virgin Daiquiri

The third course choices proved to have been designed with as much care and detail as the other two. They consisted of Peach Trifle, Exotic Virgin Daiquiri and Farm Goat Cheesecake. The Peach Trifle was served in a glass; the chunks of peaches layered between dollops of Amaretto whipped cream. It was light, creamy and another refreshing ode to Miami weather. The Exotic Virgin Daiquiri was an original dessert, made with passion fruit, mango and kiwi, and served with champagne granite. This one was more subtle and fruity in taste yet memorable in its simplicity and presentation. It kind of reminded me of a tropical escapade through the Caribbean. Although I was enthralled by all the desserts, the Farm Goat Cheesecake was my favorite. A picture is worth a thousand words, but in this case it doesn't do it justice. The mild flavored, creamy texture of the goat cheese created a decadent sweet basis for this dessert, while the raspberry coulis infused a seasonal zest that brought it all together. I can sleep with one of these on my pillow every night.

Farm Goat Cheesecake

All this, for $23 for lunch and $39 for dinner. Can't think of a better place for a  fantastic, romantic night. And with a Miami Spice menu like this, it is an eat-and-repeat kind of place. After starting off with an experience as memorable as this one, I can't wait to see what else awaits us for 2013. For more information, you can visit Atrio online or call them at 305 503-6500.

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