Miami Culinary Tours - South Beach Food Tour

Enjoying the Art Deco District 

Did you know that back in the day architects designed "brows" on the buildings in South Beach to keep the sun's heat out? What about the reason why there are arrows pointing in a single direction on the floor of the Essex Hotel? It's funny how you can live in a place all your life and not really know all there is to know about it. That is one of the cool things I absolutely loved about Miami Culinary Tours - South Beach Tour.  I found myself utterly surprised and pleasantly intrigued as I ate my way through the Art-Deco District of Miami Beach in this fun-filled, mouth-watering tour.

So much history behind the decor

Miami Culinary Tours was born out of a passion for food and a desire to share that passion. It's founder, Grace Della, came up with the idea about 10 years ago as she was having a heart-to-heart conversation with her mother about food, cooking, cultures and people. Since then, Miami Culinary Tours has evolved into a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike; offering a taste into the different flavors and cultures that make Miami the attractive culinary melting pot it is.

Natalie Fong, Our Tour Guide

Every tour is different and the stops can change depending on what is fresh at the moment, restaurant availability and what the chefs and cooks are creating on that particular week. When we arrived at our meeting point, Natalie, our friendly tour guide, was there to greet us. She encouraged us to mingle while we waited for the rest of the participants. I have to say the cohesiveness of our group was perfect from the beginning. An interesting aspect of these tours is that aside from interacting with locals who want a new perspective on the dining scene or are perhaps celebrating a special occasion, you also get the opportunity to meet so many visitors to the Miami area. Our new friends included people from Manchester in Britain, Brisbane in Australia,the Dominican Republic, Italy and a local couple celebrating their 22nd wedding anniversary.

Getting to know each other

From start to finish, the South Beach tour was about 1 mile long and took approximately 3 hours. Altogether, we made 7 stops, ranging from generous sit down meals and on-the-go bites, to a Cuban "colada" fix at a local eatery.




Take a look at some of the highlights from our tour and see why Miami Culinary Tours has received national and international recognition from travelers and local foodies alike. Since I think its much more fun to leave the stops a surprise, I'll just give you a bit of information on the locales we visited as well as share some of the foodporn with you.

Cheers with Refrajo

Cold Gazpacho

Artisanal Colombian Cuisine

The evening started at a popular restaurant inside a luxury boutique resort reminiscent of old Florida. Offering Nuevo Latino Cuisine, we got to sample a shot of a Cold Gazpacho that was both creamy as well as refreshing. From there, we hopped on over to a fabulous spot, whose rustic yet trendy decor was an eye-catcher from the start. Exemplifying the Miami/SoBe vibe, it unites a combination of South American flavors to bring an exotic fusion of Colombian, Peruvian and Venezuelan cuisine. We were treated to a sampling of different Artisanal bites: a golden meat empanada filled with bold flavors, a "patacon" consisting of  shredded chicken and cheese sitting atop a crunchy plantain, and a white corn grilled arepa topped with a delicious homemade sauce. We enjoyed this sampler with a Refrajo; a refreshing cocktail made with Aguila beer and Colombian soda.

The Chef, detailed as always, came to say hi to the group and describe the dishes

A Taste of Cuba

"Cafecito" Time

As we made our way to our next stop, we learned a lot of fun facts about the area;  its history,  its culture, and the beautiful architecture that makes South Beach such a visited hotspot.  I was excited to learn that the next location on our tour was a Cuban favorite of mine.  We sat down amidst the live entertainment and the breathtaking murals and enjoyed our exceptional meal: Ropa Vieja, Moros and Maduritos (Shredded Beef Flank Steak in a captivating sauce, Mixed Black Beans and Rice and Sweet Plantains). And of course, it wouldn't be complete without the warm, fresh baked bread that is such a special part of this place. Feeling nice and satisfied, we continued our walk through Ocean Drive, enjoying all the facts. In true Latin fashion, we stopped at a "cafeteria" and ordered a "Colada" to share; a Cuban expresso shot. Perfect complement to the delicious Cuban meal we had just indulged in.

A little bit of the Czech Republic on Ocean Drive

Amuse Bouche

Liquid Nitrogen Ice-Cream

The culinary fun wasn't over just yet although you're probably thinking, "More food?" The answer is yes. There were still a few more surprises in the mix. We strolled some more, had a near-death experience with a coconut which I'm sure we will all remember with a chuckle, and headed over to a relatively new place on Ocean Drive. Introducing modern European cuisine which features complex molecular gastronomy, this chic and upscale restaurant provides an exhilarating experience from the moment you walk in. First, we were treated to an "Amuse-Bouche", (literally translated to mouth amuser); a single bite-sized hors d'oeuvre that was an explosion of flavors to the palate. It was a small roll of salmon, stuffed baby carrot, melon sauce and a sprinkle of salad. As if we weren't impressed enough, they also prepared some Liquid Nitrogen Ice-Cream right in front of us, which made us practically jump for joy with anticipation. Only two places in the beach serve this sweet treat.

Delicious

Oh boy! More Sweets

Gelato Dreams

For the last two stops, we continued on the Dessert Trail; sampling some more culinary culture.  We visited a casual location that's become quite the institution on South Beach in the ten years it's been there.  Originally from Israel, its owner started his first restaurant in 1978, and they are open for business 24 hours a day.  Here, we sampled some traditional sweets and then moved on to our final stop of the evening: Italian Gelato. Offering a huge selection of flavors, we had trouble picking just one. It was a great ending to a memorable night!

Decisions Decisions

If this is what Grace envisioned as she sat in her mother's kitchen, and began her journey to creating culinary tours that would provide everything from delicious cuisine, to a fine cultural experience, she hit it right on the nail. Besides the South Beach Tour, there is also a Little Havana Tour, and a couple of City Tours (on a bus). If you prefer, you can also request a Private Tour. For more information, visit Miami Culinary Tours online at http://www.miamiculinarytours.com.

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Italian Culinary Experience Hosted By Casa Vinicola Zonin

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

At the risk of stating the obvious I have to say I love food! What pairs better with an eye-rolling culinary experience, than  a memorable glass of wine? Casa Vinicola Zonin USA, one of the most prominent family-owned wine making companies in Italy since the 1800s, has recently hosted a series of Italian Culinary Experiences at the Miami Culinary Institute in Downtown Miami, featuring the different regions of Italy. Each of these experiences has showcased the culinary talents of chefs from local Italian restaurants, and has presented superb food and wine pairings that exalt the authentic flavors.

Chef Sergio Sigala

The latest culinary experience featured the Lombardy region. Executive Chef Sergio Sigala, from Cecconi's Miami Beach located in the Soho Beach House Miami, created the remarkable food pairings. I thought I'd share some of these wines with you because in addition to being phenomenal, (as all the wines Casa Vinicola Zonin USA offers traditionally are), four of these in particular were just recently introduced to the U.S. market. They were produced in the Tenuta Il Bosco Estate, a region that has long been recognized as the cradle of Pinot Noir in Italy. A total of five wines were featured, including the well known Zonin Prosecco, and I believe they are going to be a huge hit.

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

Before I go into the exclusive wines, I'll start with my all-time favorite: Zonin Prosecco. This is truly the shining star among Proseccos. Prosecco is a sparkling wine from the Veneto region, with an extremely delicate almond note that can be enjoyed on its own or with a meal. Its fresh and fruity flavor profile makes it easy to pair with a variety of foods, and its great price makes it an excellent choice for toasting with friends. As you know, I love brunch, and whether at home or at a great restaurant, there is nothing more refreshing and memorable than a Mimosa or a Bellini made with Zonin Prosecco. Add a little Apperol instead, and you have a sweet-tasting Spritzer. Prosecco in the morning, Prosecco at night; the possibilities are endless.

Braseola Roll with Parmesan Cheese and Arugula

As an aperitif for this pairing, Chef Sigala prepared a Braseola Roll with Parmesan Cheese and Arugula. The combination of the salty meat and cheese went very well with the dry, crisp taste of the Prosecco.  I am looking forward to trying a similar pairing at home next time I have company. Its really no wonder that Zonin Prosecco has not only become very popular in restaurants, but can also be purchased at the local wine store.

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

If you're looking for another great wine to pair with either an appetizer or antipasto, you might want to try Tinoto Il Bosco Oltrenero; a decisive fresh wine with an ample bouquet and fruity notes. It goes very well with starters, as well as pasta dishes and seafood. Chef Sigala paired it with Trout on Grilled Polenta. It was a delicious combination of flavors.

Bread and Spinach Gnocchi

Trout on Grilled Polenta

For an entree, or for heavier dishes, I would recommend the Tenuto Il Bosco Bonarda. It was definitely a favorite. Although it will currently be available only in restaurants, I can't wait until it can be purchased locally. I happen to love reds and this one was the best I've had in a while. Its deep ruby red color and intensely fruity aroma pairs well with sausages, meat-filled raviolis, stews and aged cheeses. I had it with Bread and Spinach Gnocchi topped with Summer Truffles. Delicious!

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

Photo Credit: Zonin Prosecco

Another excellent wine to pair with First and Second Courses or meat dishes is the Tenuto Il Bosco Pinot Nero. This red wine is soft and rich, with discreet almond notes. It was paired with an exquisite Risotto with Rabbit and Mushrooms to bring out the flavor. Finally, Zonin showcased a wine whose fragrance and balance make it a perfect companion to either appetizers, light dishes, shellfish or desserts. It was the Tenuta Il Bosco Oltrenero Cruase. This rose had a pleasant, fruity flavor that complemented our dessert: Pears with Ricotta Cream and 

Spiced Wine Sauce.

Pears with Ricotta Cream

Risotto with Rabbit & Mushrooms

Personally, I believe a good glass of wine can enhance the flavor of a dish and make the dining experience more complete. When you are embarking on your own adventures, keep an eye out for these wines and others from Casa Vinicola Zonin USA, and give them a try. I think you'll enjoy their quality and find your own favorite. By the way, while Soho Beach House Miami is a private club, hotel and spa, Cecconi's Miami Beach is open to the public. It offers an elegant and relaxed dining experience and is currently participating in Miami Spice. 

For more information on Casa Vinicola Zonin USA, visit their website at http://www,zoninusa.com and for information on Cecconi's, visit http://www.sohobeachhouse.com/cecconis.

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Flavors of Miami Spice - Morton's The Steakhouse (North Miami Beach)

Chef Pablo Guarella

Enjoying pasta from Il Mulino

September 6th was a big night around the world for fashionistas. From Milan to Miami, and everywhere in between, Fashion's Night Out was a huge success. Celebrating its fourth glamorous year, stores in over 13 markets worldwide and 500 cities nationwide, participated in the after hours shopping extravaganza; showcasing models, makeovers and merchandise.

DJ spinning some tunes

I'll take a Mojito please

How about a refreshing brewski?

Miami took it a step further. With FNO events taking place all over the city, Macy's at Aventura Mall teamed up with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and added an extra "umph" to their festivities. They incorporated Flavors of Miami Spice; a culinary experience highlighting the Miami Spice promotion taking place from August 1st to September 30th. Several participating restaurants handed out samples of their cuisine while guests enjoyed complimentary Mojitos and Pina Coladas from Bacardi, as well as refreshing beer from Stella Artois.

Delicious Pasta from Il Mulino New York-Miami

Chef Gaston Sanchez from Larios on the Beach
 and Bongos Cuban Cafe

Chef Sanchez's Arroz Con Pollo was addicting!

Niki Taylor and Yours Truly

Striking a pose with Countess LuAnn
De Lesseps

Participating restaurants included Larios on the Beach, Bongo's Cuban Cafe, Il Mulino New York- Miami, and Morton's The Steakhouse (North Miami Beach). It was an exciting evening filled with music, fashion and delicious food, and it wouldn't be complete without picture-taking moments with models Nicky Taylor and Countess LuAnn De Lesseps.

Chef Pablo Guarella working his magic

Mouthwatering and delicious

I took this opportunity to chat with Executive Chef Pablo Guarella from Morton's The Steakhouse (North Miami Beach), located at 17399 Biscayne Boulevard, and bring you a glimpse into the ins and outs of this talented chef, the popular restaurant, and their fabulous Miami Spice menu.

To view their Miami Spice menu, as well as a list of participating restaurants, visit http://ilovemiamispice.com/. For more information on Morton's The Steakhouse in North Miami Beach, you can contact them at 305-945-3131 or visit them online at http://www.mortons.com/northmiami/.

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Cioppino

It is impossible to think about Italy without craving their delicious Italian food. Sophia Loren said it best when she said, "Everything you see I owe to pasta." When I embarked on my most recent adventure to Italian culinary gem, Cioppino, located in the Ritz Carlton of Key Biscayne, at 455 Grand Bay Drive, I expected to receive outstanding service and savor excellent cuisine. The experience went way beyond that; combining the elements of detail, personalized service, and authentic food, to ultimately create a night to remember.

I have visited Cioppino several times, including to indulge in their famous Sunday Brunch (which I know has been revamped since the last time I went and I can't wait to try it). There is always something special and unique about each experience. This evening, Cioppino once again outdid themselves. We were wowed not only by Chef Ezio Gamba's delectable talents and culinary skills, but also by our server, Victor, who ensured every detail of our meal was perfect; from the moment we sat down at our table, to the moment we walked out of the restaurant.

It was a Saturday night, and the Miami Spice menu was not available, but since I was intrigued by some of the items that are featured in both their lunch and dinner menus, I decided to try them anyway. We started with a signature plate I always rave about. It is their Burrata, a creamy, round, extravagant take on mozzarella cheese that came wrapped in a layer of Prosciutto, with pesto arugula and toasted pine nuts. The Ritz Carlton flies the burrata in from the region of Puglia  twice a week and you can literally taste the freshness and decadence in every pleasurable bite. You'll be happy to know the burrata can be found in their Miami Spice Lunch Menu.

Ravioli Di Aragosta

Gnocchi De Patate & Ravioli
Stuffed with Mushrooms

Next, we ordered the Ravioli Di Aragosta, a dish of lobster & ricotta stuffed ravioli and bay scallops, bathed in a celery infused cream sauce. Mamma Mia it was good! The plump little pillows of pasta were bites of paradise filled with succulent, sweet lobster. It was colorful not only for the eyes, but for the taste buds as well. This dish is offered in the lunch menu for Miami Spice. Our next entree was a combination of two pastas: the Gnocchi Di Patate al Pomodoro Fresco and a chef's special for the evening, a housemade Ravioli Stuffed with Porcini and Portobello Mushrooms and Topped with Wagyu Beef. The Gnocchi were delicious; with a light and fluffy taste and a springy texture that was pleasing to the palate.  I could savor the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs in each bite. The robust and complex flavors of the mushrooms blended well without competing for attention, and the pasta practically melted in my mouth. I loved the balance of textures between the crispy wagyu beef and the creamy, delicate sauce. Excellent creation Chef!

Tiramisu

I was very excited when it came time for dessert. I have a shameful love affair with Tiramisu and I was ready to let my passion roll. We were celebrating a special evening, and the staff at Cioppino did not forget. They brought out a beautifully decorated Tiramisu that was almost too exquisite to eat. I say almost, because I was dying for my first spoonful. Glorious! On my most recent visit to Rome, in Italy, I visited a square called Piazza Argentina. There was a small cafe there that was very charming and we had their Tiramisu. It was unforgettable! I remembered it as soon as Ciopinno's Tiramisu caressed my lips. So authentic, it was made with imported Mascarpone cheese and a hint of Expresso ladyfingers, then whipped with Italian liqueurs. The result? A creamy indulgence that made me want to swoon.  Oh Sole Mio! By the way, enjoy because they offer it for dinner on their Miami Spice Menu.

The Miami Spice menu is currently being offered at Cioppino for both lunch and dinner and you can check what days it is available on http://ilovemiamispice.com/participants/cioppino.htm. Additionally, the restaurant will be hosting its Annual White Truffle Dinner in November; an exclusive gastronomic journey showcasing the rare and highly-coveted White Truffle Mushrooms.  For more information on Cioppino, or to make reservations, you can contact them at 305-365-4286 or visit them online at http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/KeyBiscayne/Dining/Cioppino.

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Rusty Pelican - Miami Spice

Wine Room

Welcome to the new Rusty Pelican 

There's something irresistibly comforting about walking into a familiar place after a while of being absent and seeing it is still the place you remembered. However, sometimes we have to take a leap of faith and embrace change to see where it takes us.  This is the route my next adventure took. The Rusty Pelican, located at 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, in Key Biscayne, has gotten a nine million dollar face lift. Gone is the tropical feel, the ocean motif, and the rustic decor that has been a Miami landmark for 40 years.  In its wake, it has left a sleek, contemporary dining venue, with a trendy ambiance and an impressive wine room. This is the new and improved Key Biscayne seafood hot spot. The pelican ain't rusty no more.

By the firepit enjoying the view

Inside Dining Area

Outside Patio

If you're a Miamian, you can rewind a few years back and reminisce on the popular Rusty Pelican Sunday Buffet Brunches, the mouth-watering cheese bread, and the salad dressings that made us lick our silverware. Nine months ago, however, the Rusty Pelican reopened its doors after closing them for over 5 months to completely revamp the restaurant; from its interior layout and decor, to the food and beverage offerings. The place was so completely transformed, adding paneled walls and dark furnishings, it took me a few minutes to take it in. But it was nice; a sort of renaissance that I was nostalgic yet excited to embrace.

Incredible views

One thing remains exactly the same and that is the spectacular view. Our table afforded us a beautiful panoramic look at Biscayne Bay while the city lights twinkled in the distance. Cameron, our waiter, came over to greet us with a welcoming smile on his face. He spent some time explaining the menu to us and helping us decide on what to order. I have to say the service was impressive and stood out for the entire meal. In addition to the impeccable attention to detail from the wait staff, Derek, one of the managers, consistently walked around the dining room talking to the guests and ensuring all was well. Now on to the food...When they set the bread basket in front of us, I was a bit hesitant; half expecting the warm, soft cheese bread we all know and love. I slowly grabbed one of the Lavash breads and put some of the Red Pepper hummus on it. A smile began to curve! Then I grabbed a piece of the Ciabatta bread and spread some Plugra butter on it. I took another bite and I was ready for change.

Basket of Lavash and Ciabatta breads

Seafood and Salmon Croquetas

Ahi Tuna Tacos

It didn't take me long to decide I wanted to try their Miami Spice Menu along with some other dishes that sounded very interesting. From the Miami Spice menu, we started off with the Seafood and Salmon Croquetas, served with roasted garlic aioli. They were creamy inside and the aioli, which had some squid ink for color, gave them an appealing, garlicky flavor.  As a second appetizer, we ordered the Ahi Tuna Tacos from the regular menu. The tacos were exceptional with fresh tuna, guacamole, shredded lettuce, espelette and fennel pollen. These blew me away; packing a spicy kick that left me wanting more.

Seafood en Papillote

Crispy Fried Whole Red Snapper

Our Miami Spice entree was the Seafood en Papillote, a moist and savory paella-like dish with jumbo shrimp, mussels and little neck clams; blended in with bomba rice and lobster broth. It was cooked "en papillote" which means the food is sealed in a package or bag, allowing the ingredients to mingle in their own flavorful juices to create a healthy, aromatic dish. I loved it. There was magic in the way each distinct taste infused with the other. The second entree we ordered came from the regular menu and it was the Crispy Fried Whole Local Red Snapper, served with Udon Noodles, Asian Slaw, and Soy-Honey Sauce. The red snapper was well-seasoned, battered and lightly fried; leaving the fish to fall right off the bone. Very nice.

Warm Cafe Con Leche

Miami Cheesecake

It was time for the sweet part of the meal. I was extremely curious about their Warm Café Con Leche, a decadent, warm White Chocolate cake, blissfully joined with Cuban Coffee, and a side of Cookies & Cream Ice Cream. It was unbelievable! I loved dipping the warm, creamy treat into the dots of raspberry puree adorning the plate. The best two forms of caffeine blended into one amazing dessert, and the taste was out of this world. Best part? It's on their Miami Spice Menu. Ready for one more, we had the Miami Cheesecake; an original mango cheesecake creation, sitting on an Oreo cookie crust and smothered in Milk Chocolate. Beautiful berries and tiny pieces of mango sat on the top creating a work of art. Gorgeous presentation and the taste: divine. We loved this grand finale.

Amaretto

Since it had been such a remarkable meal, we wanted to have an after dinner drink before heading back. We ordered our usual Frangelico and Amaretto. I do have a caveat here. The prices were a bit steep for these drinks. They were $14 and $12 respectively, which is substantially higher than the norm. So, you can choose to splurge or you can call it a night.


I loved the old Rusty Pelican but I am in love with the new one. While there was a bit of nostalgia at the beginning, the wonderful service, modern look and excellent food made the refreshed version of my old favorite quickly grow on me and I am excited to return, old friend. For more information, you can contact them at 305-361-3818 or visit them online at http://www.rustypelican.com.

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