Larios on the Beach - Miami Spice 2012

Miami Spice 2012

It's here! It's here! It's finally here! Miami Spice is back and it's hotter than ever. Running this year from August 1-September 30, 2012, there are more mouth-watering menus than I have seen in a while. For those of you that don't know what Miami Spice is, let me tell you so you can run and start reserving. During the months of August and September, a number of top-notch restaurants offer three-course prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus. We're talking world renowned chefs and signature dishes, all at a discounted price! For 2012, it's a little different than in years past. Restaurants are divided into two sections: Fine Dining: with Lunch prices at $19 and Dinner at $33, and Luxury Dining: with Lunch prices at $23 and Dinner at $39. Here's a link to a list of participating restaurants as well as the menus they are offering: Miami Spice 2012 Participating Restaurants. Since some restaurants offer the promotion for either lunch or dinner, or on certain days of the week, you should check out the information on the link above before making your reservations. You will find the list is divided into regions, making it easier to find those restaurants you've been dying to try!

The "Gloria Room"

With Chef Gaston Sanchez

My first Miami Spice experience this year (and the beginning of many more to come) was at Larios on the Beach, located at 820 Ocean Drive, in Miami Beach. Larios on the Beach, a Bongos Cuban Cafe Restaurant,  first opened in 1992 and is owned and operated by Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Walking into the restaurant, you are reminded of an Old Havana era, where Guayabera-laden gentlemen smoked cigars in an island nation flourishing in its tropical ambiance. The decor is reminiscent of 1950's Cuba; a beautiful giant mural in the back portraying an image of Our Lady of Charity. You can't help but feel nostalgic for the essence and vibe of days gone by.

Guava Mojito

Passion Fruit Mojito

Watermelon Mojito

We started off with drinks in the front area of the restaurant. Larios on the Beach is known for its delicious flavored Mojitos. I can tell you they are amazing because I tried three. I had the Passion Fruit Mojito, the Watermelon Mojito and at the recommendation of one of our dedicated and cheerful waitstaff, the Guava Mojito. When I looked at their Miami Spice menu, I noticed that theirs includes a drink along with their three courses. That's a nice touch.  You can choose either a Mojito or a Red Sangria.

Platter of Miami Spice Appetizer Samples

Next, we were served a platter with a combination of some of the appetizers available during Miami Spice. We tried each one starting with the Flight of Ceviches, a selection of seasonal fresh seafood ceviches, made with shrimp, scallops and corvina, and creatively prepared with an original twist. The Tostones Rellenos were a piece of island paradise in the form of a trio of plantain cups stuffed with shredded beef, Cuban criolla minced beef and shrimp creole. The Papas Rellenas, or stuffed potatoes, had a creamy mashed potato filling mixed with delectably seasoned minced beef,  and the Mariquitas, plantain chips served with Cuban mojo, were crispy, fresh and insanely good.

Zarzuela de Mariscos

At this point, we moved to what they affectionately refer to as the "Gloria Room" to continue with the feast. It is a quaint, charming room that also serves as a great place for private events. Out came the entrees and our mouths began to water. The first one I tried was the Zarzuela de Mariscos. While I found the flavor and seasoning in all the dishes superb, this was my favorite. It was probably the best Zarzuela I have had. Not only was it filled with a generous amount of seafood including lobster, shrimp, scallops, calamari, fish, baby clams and mussels, but the homemade creole sauce was perfect. From the moment I inhaled the aroma, to the time I put the first bite into my mouth, it reminded me of my mother's cooking.  I could easily just take a jar of the sauce and dip bread in it all day, and that was pretty much the consensus around the table. This entree comes served with a side of Fried Sweet Plantains.

Where do I begin?

Vaca Frita de Pollo

Lechon Asado

Up next, we were treated to their Tour of Cuba, and we didn't even have to board a plane. This dish consisted of a trio of their signature dishes: the Vaca Frita de Pollo, Lechon Asado and Ropa Vieja. Legitimate cuban cuisine at its finest! Vaca Frita, a traditional Cuban staple, loosely translated means "Fried Cow". Traditionally, it is made with a shredded Beef Flank Steak following a two step process: first marinading and cooking the meat and then frying it with a good amount of onions. Their take, however, involved chicken instead of beef and it was amazing. The meat was crispy and juicy, all at the same time, and the spices gave it a unique kick. The Lechon Asado, or Roasted Pig was also very flavorful. Once again I have to commend the chef because the pork was succulent and tender, and seasoned exceptionally to retain a juicy texture.

Ropa Vieja

Tostones y Maduros

Finally, the Ropa Vieja, a close cousin of the Vaca Frita, caught our attention. If you're using a translator- don't panic. Ropa Vieja means "Old Clothes" but you won't be ingesting any garments. It is actually Beef Flank Steak that is also shredded and stewed in a breathtaking sauce, soaking up all the juices. However, it is not fried like the Vaca Frita. I was floored. I had a struggle between my brain saying I was full and my taste buds wanting more of this delight - Needless to say, my taste buds won! This dish is served with your choice of two sides: White Rice (Arroz Blanco) Mixed Black Beans and Rice, (Moros) Sweet Plantains (Maduros) or Crispy Green Plantains (Tostones).

Slices of Heaven! From Left: Pudin de Pan, Tres Leches, Flan de Queso & Flan de Leche

Close-up of Pudin de Pan

Close-up of Flan de Queso

Finally came time for dessert. I know, I know how could I eat more? I'm the Foodaholic so the question is, how can I not?  A parade of sweet heaven unfolded - there were plates with Flan de Leche (Traditional Cuban Style Custard Topped with Caramel, Flan de Queso (Same Custard but with Cream Cheese added), Arroz Con Leche (Cuban Style Rice Pudding), Pudin de Pan (Bread Pudding- but this one was original - Chef Gaston referred to it as a "hybrid"), Tres Leches (A type of sponge cake made with three types of milk) and Natilla (Cuban Style Sweetened Vanilla Pudding). Wow! Some of these are available in the Lunch menu and some in the Dinner menu, but you can't wrong with any. If I had to choose, I'd have a hard time but I can tell you that the Tres Leches, Flan de Queso and Arroz con Leche rocked my world.

Natilla

Arroz con Leche

A visit to Larios on the Beach is a culinary trip to the heart of Cuba. It offers an authentic experience in a happening environment. In addition to the inside dining area, you can also dine outside and enjoy some people-watching on Ocean Drive. In the evenings, there is music, dancing and a lively crowd as well. Take advantage of Miami Spice and "feel the rhythm". For more information you can contact them at 305-532-9577 or visit them online at http://www.bongoscubancafe.com/restaurants/locations/larios-on-the-beach.html.

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Cafe du Parc

Photo Credit: Intercontinental Hotels

Once I was done eating my way through New York City, I continued my trek through the northeast by visiting our nation's capital: Washington D.C. There were a few places here I was dying to sink my teeth into.  D.C. has been home to leaders of the organic and sustainable movements for quite some time, and is quickly becoming a part of today's stylish dining scene; featuring a number of award winning chefs and an emphasis on fresh local cuisine.



After a day of historical exploring, I wanted to stay in the heart of the city for my dinner adventure so I walked on over to the Willard InterContinental Hotel to check out a french bistro there that sounded interesting: Cafe du Parc, located at 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue. I bet you're thinking isn't that the same avenue the White House is on? The answer is yes. Cafe du Parc is located very close to the White House over looking Pershing Park, as well as several national monuments and the downtown theatre district.

Hibiscus Champagne

Cafe du Parc is under the direction of three star Michelin Chef Antoine Westermann, one of the world's most admired and celebrated chefs. It has two floors indoors and offers outdoor seating as well. The first floor is a cafe during the day, (serving delightful pastries in between meals) and a wine bar at night. The second floor offers regional French favorites in a beautiful, elegant setting. This is where my adventure took place. From the moment we walked in, the service was superb. Our waiter, Tufan Kaya, took the time to explain each item we were interested in on the menu, as well as to provide suggestions based on our preferences. I was in heaven! Since it had been a very hot day (remember the heat wave that affected the northeast recently?) I wanted something refreshing. Tufan recommended I try a French cocktail that was both sweet as well as cooling: The Hibiscus Champagne. I loved it! There was a wild hibiscus flower sitting in the bottom of the champagne flute, with Heidsieck bubbling all around it. As the champagne fizzled, the hibiscus flower opened up and bloomed in my glass. It had to be one of the prettiest and most original cocktails I have sipped.

Assiette de Cochonnailles

Gateau de Crabe Facon "Westermann"

Excited, we then started off our meal with the Assiette de Cochonnailles, which loosely translated means "plate of pork meat". This was a charcuterie of sorts featuring pork rilletes, an impressive pork terrine, shaved Serrano ham, and dry salami; served with an assortment of house-made pickled vegetables and country toast. Scrumptious! The serrano ham and the dry salami were excellent, but it was the pork terrine and the the pork rilletes that made me swoon. The texture and flavor was perfect in both. The terrine was rich and delicate at the same time; while the amazing combination of meat and spices in the rilletes carried its full, bold taste to the tongue. It was the perfect start to our meal. Next, we ordered the Gateau de Crabe Facon "Westermann", which is a crabcake created "Westermann's Way". The crabmeat was flavorful and light and it was served with an appetizing remoulade sauce and a mixed green salad. Delicious!

Coquilles Saint-Jacques

NY Steak Frites

Between the exquisite food and the attentive service, we were getting more delighted by the minute.  We ordered our first entree: the Coquilles Saint-Jacques. These were seared scallops, served on potato confit, with herb puree and preserved lemon emulsion. The scallops were tender, with a sweet taste and a slightly creamy texture. They practically melted in my mouth. The potato confit had a succulent, buttery flavor that was outrageous. Our second entree was the Pan seared NY Steak Frites, served with Bearnaise Sauce. Cooked to perfection, the steak was juicy and well-seasoned while the fries were thick and crispy. The creamy smoothness of the Bearnaise Sauce made it the perfect complement to the steak and we embellished.

Grilled Gruyere Sandwich Sandwich

By the way, if you have little ones and you're wondering if there is something here for them; there is! Cafe du Parc offers an extensive children's menu which includes items such as Fresh Pasta with Parmesan Cheese and a Small Ground Beef Steak. It also features an all-time favorite dish: Grilled Gruyere Cheese Sandwich with hand-cut fries - the French way. It was both pleasing to the eye as well as to the the palate (for both children and those finicky child-like eaters).

Gateau Chaud au Chocolate

Glace a la vanille

I just wanted the adventure to continue all night long. When the dessert menu came, we were ready for more.  We ordered the Gateau Chaud au Chocolate avec noix de Pecan. (Can you tell I just loved practicing my French) This was a decadent Chocolate Pecan Brownie with Chocolate Ganache, served with Coffee Granita layered with Vanilla Mousse. Do I even have to say more? The refreshing Coffee Granita went so deliciously well with the moist Chocolate brownie that words are not enough to describe its richness. To make the sweetness linger just a few moments more, we also ordered the Glace a la vanille, which simply means vanilla ice-cream. Only, this was so much more. The vanilla ice-cream was blended with a crunchy caramel sauce, and topped with a bittersweet warm chocolate delight. Get the picture? It was an evening in Paris!

I venture to say this will be a dinner difficult to top. Cafe du Parc is a gem in the heart of D.C. and if you're making a trip to the area, you must stop by and indulge in their food, their stellar service and the French ambiance it envelopes you in. For more information, you can contact them at 202-942-7000 or visit them online at http://cafeduparc.com/.

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Cheeseburger Baby

A few months ago, I was one of the lucky judges at a burger competition at Palmetto Bay Village Center. (Read about it at Battle of the Burgers at Palmetto Bay Village Center.) Over eight food trucks were serving up some original patties and we had to pick the tastiest one. This is where I first tried the delicious burger of the first place winner: Cheeseburger Baby. It turned out, that not only do they have a food truck, but they are also the oldest burger joint in South Beach,  located at 1505 Washington Avenue.


On a nice, sunny Miami afternoon I had a craving for a juicy burger. I figured I'd repeat the awesome experience I had at Palmetto Bay Village Center by visiting Cheeseburger Baby; this time at their restaurant on the beach. Meeting up with an old friend I hadn't seen in years, we ventured to the burger staple that is open daily till dawn. When you get a first look at the place, you're not really sure what to expect. Think hole-in-the-wall meets Hip-Hop DJ booth. It is small but cozy, with a friendly staff and a counter facing the open grill, where you can see your food being prepared. I learned later that they also have a backyard patio, but for lunch, we sat inside.

1/2 lb. Bacon Cheeseburger

Cheddar Cheese Fries

I already knew what I wanted to have: their award-winning 1/2 lb. Bacon Cheeseburger. All their burgers are served with only 100% Angus beef so I was excited to the core. After a few minutes, out came this juicy, boldly-flavored, hunka meat on a fresh, tasty bun, served with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and chopped kosher pickles. Oh yeah baby, it was good! Of course, I had seen a couple of pictures of their cheese fries and I figured what the heck? I have an elliptical at home. So I ordered their Cheddar Cheese Fries and forgot all else. I can still taste them. Ladies and gentlemen, these fries are not topped with Cheese Wiz. They were bathed in real cheddar cheese; melted to perfection. Awesome!

Chicken Philly Wrap

Close-up of Chicken Philly Wrap

Onion Rings

To offset my reckless abandonment, my friend ordered a healthier alternative. She had the Chicken Philly Wrap. It was a nice combination of seasoned shredded chicken mixed with grilled peppers, grilled onions, and choice of cheese; topped with lettuce and tomatoes. Great taste without the guilt! Of course, she couldn't resist, and ordered a side of their Onion Rings. They were delicious, with a great balance of onion flavor and crispy coating. It goes without saying that she'll be joining me on the elliptical next week.

I noticed that there are several options on the menu for vegetarians, including a veggie burger, veggie grilled cheese sandwich and a veggie sandwich. It is great to know because I'll be making a visit back on a Meatless Monday to check that out. If you get a craving for a delicious burger that will make your eyelids roll back, make your way to Cheeseburger Baby on the beach, or keep an eye out for their food truck. You live on the beach but don't feel like driving anywhere? Relax, pick up your phone and call them. They deliver and it's free!  For more information, you can contact Cheeseburger Baby at 305-531-7300 or visit them online at http://www.cheeseburgerbaby.net/index.html.

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Ellen's Stardust Diner

To wind down my adventures through NYC, I decided to head over to a place that was animated, fun and entertaining. Where can you find the next big Broadway star singing "Mama Mia" while playing drums on your head with a pack of straws? If you guessed Ellen's Stardust Diner, then you're right. Founded in 1987 and located in the heart of Times Square at 1650 Broadway,  it is the place to go to liven your spirits and enjoy a good time surrounded by an ever popular singing wait staff. They are quite impressive! As a matter of fact, just about every month a couple of them actually go on to perform in Broadway shows.


I do have to give you one caveat. Come here for the fun - not for the food. Other than the burger, which is probably your best choice, I haven't sampled anything spectacular on their menu. Serving primarily comfort food, the names of the dishes are as original as the diner itself, but don't expect to be wowed in taste.





As you walk into the retro-styled diner, you'll find the wait staff dressed in impromptu costumes and singing both oldies as well as current top hits. They stand on counters behind you, sit next to you, and even pick some brave volunteers to participate in the fun. Personally, I had my head used as a snare drum to the tune of  a Jersey Boys single.  I loved it!

Empanada Sampler

We started off with the Empanada Sampler, which were homemade beef and chicken empanadas, served with mild and spicy dipping sauces. The menu described them as "Peruvian" style but I'm not really sure what that meant. They were average and nothing to write home about. I'd say of the two, I probably preferred the meat, but the filling wasn't too seasoned in either one.

Be Bop a Lula Burger

We then ordered the Be Bop a Lula Burger, a thick patty served on a homemade bun and topped with American Cheese, bacon, grilled onions, sauteed mushrooms, lettuce and tomatoes. It came with a side of crispy and delicious waffle fries and a pickle.  Things momentarily looked up in the culinary department. The patty was juicy and flavorful and the toppings went well together.

Meatloaf

I became bold and decided I wanted to sample some more of their comfort food. I saw the Meatloaf on their menu and it was described as "the best in town". Smothered in "Mom's gravy", it was served with mashed potatoes and the night's vegetables. Since I was singing and taking a musical stroll through the 80's, I figured, let's do it. The minute the plate I arrived, I knew I was in for a disappointment. The meatloaf looked so tough, I was hesitant to try it. I did and unfortunately, I was right. It was overcooked and dry, with very little flavor. I ate about half and just settled for the mashed potatoes and vegetables. I definitely would not order the meatloaf here again and I would venture to say it is not the best in town.


We decided to pass on the dessert this time, although I have to say I've eaten dessert here before and it's been good. We focused on enjoying the fun and the singers and bypass any more food. Despite the less-than-fantastic cuisine, I find Ellen's Stardust Diner is a must-try at least once when you're in New York simply for the experience. Stick to the burgers or maybe some desserts if you're looking to have a better meal as you kick back with the musical antics.  If nothing else, you'll walk out giddy and humming familiar tunes after spending some time in the 1950's-themed diner filled with wall-to-wall nostalgic memorabilia. For more information, you can contact them at (212) 956-5151 or visit them online at http://www.ellensstardustdiner.com/.

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EDGE Steak & Bar - Brunch

About a month ago, I wrote a post on a somewhat new but increasingly popular restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel in Brickell: EDGE Steak & Bar, located at 1435 Brickell Avenue. I had an incredible dinner adventure there, and was looking forward to returning to try their Sunday Brunch; a lavish buffet-style brunch promising a whimsical twist on the food truck frenzy. How, you ask? In addition to the traditional brunch offerings, such as omelette and carving stations, there would also be innovative stops simulating food trucks serving Mexican favorites, Cuban must-haves and Peruvian seafood. The brunch also included unlimited Mimosas and Build-Your-Own Bloody Marys. While I love all kinds of Sunday Brunches, I am a devoted fan of buffet brunches, because you can sample a wider selection of items for one price. Back to EDGE I went...

Mimosas and Bloody Marys

Jumbo Shrimp

East Coast Oysters

I was excited the moment we arrived; spotting the large table right in front of the entrance, where a great number of the buffet items were aesthetically placed. Being the seafood lover that I am, I instantaneously went to look for the Peruvian Seafood Station mentioned on their website, where I would find the shrimp, oysters, crab claws and ahi tuna tartare. I noticed there wasn't a specific station for the seafood per se, but rather platters with these items were placed on the main table. The Jumbo Shrimp and Shucked East Coast Oysters were the first to call my name. I piled some of those on my plate and went to town. They were very good. The shrimp were plump, juicy and tender and the oysters were somewhat salty with a soft texture and a slightly bitter finish. I then looked around for their Ahi Tuna Tartare, since you know me and my love for the Chicken of the Sea. Unfortunately, I never found it. I did find the crab claws but I honestly wasn't thrilled about them.  They were Jonah crab claws and I am not particularly fond of those, as they are not as meaty or flavorful as their counterparts.

Jonah Crab Claws

Whole Red Snapper

Signature House Kettle Chips

Still having a world of choices to explore, I continued sampling the items beautifully displayed on the main table. From the delicious variety of Antipasti, to the Savory Cheeses and the Sweet Pea Parmesan Bruschettas, it was a whirlwind of titillating deliciousness. Continuing over to the Hot Food Station I picked up some Crispy Local Whole Red Snapper with Florida Mango Salsa. Scrumptious! The Carving Station also offered the Chef's prime choice cut of the week, along with their famous Cutting Edge Rub. I tried some Mini EDGE Burgers with their signature House Kettle Chips, which took me back to my outstanding first visit there.

Say hello to my little friend...

Viva La Mexico! Station

Cuban Food Truck Station

What made this brunch unique to me, though, was the originality of their stations. They have two fun ones that I've never seen in any other brunch. The Viva La Mexico! station decorated like a Mexican food truck and featuring Tacos with all the fixings; and the Cuban Food Truck, showcasing....are you a ready...a Roast Suckling Pig.  That was impressive! Not only because it looked awesome, but because it was perfectly roasted - and if you're Cuban or love Cuban food, you know what I mean: juicy and flavorful on the inside, with a crispy skin on the outside. I thought it was Noche Buena in July. I can tell you that when I posted the picture of the suckling pig on my Facebook page, I got a lot of responses asking me if the pig was a regular item on the Sunday Brunch menu; even from out-of-towners planning on visiting Miami.

Seafood Paella

Cotton Candy! Frozen Yogurt!

Wanting to sample more, I tried the Seafood Paella. It was fantastic; standing out with its juicy layer of flavors and medley of seafood. Over on the other side, chefs were preparing omelettes, and there was an array of fresh fruit to select from. By the way, they have a lot of options available for the little guys, so you don't have to leave them at home. There is a special menu for kids offering all of their favorites along with a fun station where the young (and young at heart) can grab cotton candy, frozen yogurt or lemonade.

Red Velvet Shortcake

Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake

Dessert Table

Finally, I made my way over to the desserts. I could feel the sugar rush just from looking at them. Needless to say I tried quite a few and my favorites were the Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake (Is that a surprise?) the Flan Floating Island, and the Original Tres Leches. 

We really enjoyed trying out the brunch at EDGE Steak & Bar. Chef Aaron Brooks' talented and dedicated hand was evident in the dishes and they really went a cut above to make the presentation unique. This time around, the service wasn't as memorable as the last time but the elegant ambiance of the place still shone through.

For more information on the Sunday Brunch at EDGE, you can contact them at 305-381-3190 or visit them online at http://www.edgerestaurantmiami.com/menus/sunday_brunch/.

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