Seasons 52

As Coral Gables Restaurant Week drew to a close, I realized I just had to try one more of their participating restaurants while there was still time. Having just returned to the 305 from a seven day cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas (where I ate over five times a day), and after uncovering the conspiracy my bathroom scale was plotting against me, I decided to go somewhere that featured a lighter approach to dining. I met up with a friend and fellow blogger, and after checking out the list of restaurants and their menu offerings, we opted to go for Seasons 52, located at 321 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. 


Seasons 52 is part of the national Darden family of restaurants which include popular brand names such as Red Lobster, Olive Garden, The Capital Grille, and Bahama Breeze, among others. There are currently 21 Seasons 52 restaurants open nationwide, with plans to launch another nine between the Fall of 2012 and Spring of 2014. It is a very unique restaurant; delivering a concept that unites value, good taste and healthy, lower-calorie options in a casual, sophisticated atmosphere.

Photo courtesy of Seasons 52 at https://www.seasons52.com/

The moment we sat down and our waitress came to greet us, she asked if we had dined there before.  While my friend had, I explained that I hadn't, so she went on to tell us quite a bit about the origin of the name Seasons 52; as well as of their menu. It turns out the name epitomizes their concept: Seasons because they change their menu seasonally; offering sensational flavors inspired by the four seasons. 52 because their Specials Menu, found on the side panel of their menu, changes weekly, 52 times a year, in tune with providing the freshest products and ingredients available. This concept allows patrons the opportunity to taste fresh infusions of flavors and dishes, at their ingredients' peak of freshness and flavor profile. The best part? All of their dishes are under 475 calories, so you can indulge without the guilt! Seasons 52 uses natural cooking techniques, including wood-fire grilling and caramelizing vegetables, to allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, without the unnecessary calories. Take that...bathroom scale!

Hawaiian Pineapple Cosmopolitan

Close up of Flatbread

Ripe Plum Tomato Flatbread

On to the food and drinks! It was Friday, the end of a stressful week, ya de ya de ya de...so I ordered a Hawaiian Pineapple Cosmopolitan. It was made with Van Gogh Pineapple Vodka and Patron Citronge. I loved it! It was just what I needed! I was also happy to learn they have a great international wine list, featuring over 50 wines by the glass. Since I wanted to try their fixed price Restaurant Week menu, I started off with the recommendation of both my friend and the waitress: the Ripe Plum Tomato Flatbread. This is one of their most popular dishes and there is no wonder why. It is amazing! A thin, crunchy flatbread covered with plum tomatoes, fresh basil, roasted garlic and melted Parmesan cheese, sat atop a large cutting board; just waiting for me to dig in. It was extremely light, fresh and tasty.

Baby Spinach Salad

Char Crust Filet Mignon

For the second course, I had the Baby Spinach Salad. Very nice! It consisted of a bed of fresh, organic baby spinach, topped with raspberries, toasted pine nuts, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese; all drizzled with a white balsamic vinaigrette dressing. I found it truly refreshing and enjoyed the sweet and salty combination of the raspberries with the gorgonzola cheese. As I looked through the choices for the main course, I was caught between two: the Caramelized Sea Scallops and the Char Crust Filet Mignon; both known to be crowd favorites. After some thought, I decided on the Filet Mignon. It was served over Yukon Gold garlic mashed potatoes, and accompanied with fresh carrots, asparagus and roasted mushrooms. There was also a sweet tamarind dipping sauce I couldn't get enough of. The filet was crispy on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside; with a bold, smoky taste. It was a very generous and filling portion; hard to believe no more than 475 calories!

Mocha Macchiato

Finally, comes the second reason I wanted to have an adventure at Seasons 52 (although totally conflicting with the first). When I got a taste of their desserts at the Taste of the Gables event I attended (See my post for Taste of the Gables for the scoop), I knew I needed to try more. They are the pioneers and originators of the award winning Mini Indulgences: individual servings of classic desserts we all love and enjoy, served in shot-size glasses. I'm sure you've seen these offered at other restaurants, but I learned they actually started here. There are a variety of flavors to choose from: Mocha Macchiato, Belgian Chocolate Rocky Road, Key Lime Pie and Raspberry-Mango Cheesecake, to name a few, and trust me when I tell you that all the ones I tried at the Taste of the Gables were delicious. Additionally, they offer seasonal flavors as well, like Pumpkin Pie Mini and Strawberry Shortcake, which also sound like music to my ears. Tonight, I had the Mocha Macchiato and it blew my mind. I felt like I was getting a rich, decadent dessert and a shot of coffee all at the same time. The only thing I regret is not having two or three more since they were so good. But, I have to remain vigilant! Like I told you before, it's on between me and the scale.


As I was finishing up my visit, I found out that Seasons 52 offers a bunch of alternative menus to satisfy every dietary need and palate. Their choices include: vegan, vegetarian, lactose-free, gluten-free, low-sodium and garlic-free. Wow! I don't know a single reason not to try try this place! For more information or to make reservations, you can contact them at 305-442-8552 or visit them online at https://www.seasons52.com/.

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Timeless at Soyka

Close to four months ago, I posted on my dinner adventure at Soyka, located at 5556 NE 4th Court, in the 55th Street Station of the MiMo District. Soyka is a familiar staple on the Boulevard; offering a nice ambiance to just chill out and relax over some great dinner and drinks. More recently on May 22nd, I was invited to attend the unveiling of their updated menu; a combination of the past and the present, the classic and the new, in an event befitting of its title: Timeless. It was an experience where the concept of time was personified through fashion, music and of course - food.  We were treated to a blast from the past performance by models sporting time-honored "Roaring 20s" attire, along with a single model who represented the concept of Time. Two giant screens in the center initially played clips of old black and white movies, and then showcased Chef Christian Martin as he introduced his new dishes; engaging the crowd from "backstage".  Aside from the media event, patrons who reserved and attended the unveiling between 6:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. not only got to be among the first to order from the new menu, but also received a $20 gift certificate to use on a future visit.

As part of their vision, Soyka's updated menu now contains many of the old favorites along with some more modern creations by Chef Martin, that are expected to wow its patrons. Easily discerned, the updated menu features Soyka Classics on the left side, with the new dishes listed as The New Soyka on the right. After sampling a combination of over twelve dishes, both old and new, I'll share my favorites with you. For pictures on all the dishes I sampled during Timeless at Soyka, just check out my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/AdventuresoftheFoodaholic and look under the Soyka's Timeless Media Event album. While you're there, you might want to Like my page so you'll receive updates on all my adventures, plus other great deals and heads up!

Tuna Tartare

Watermelon Feta (lower right)

Of the starters, one of my favorites came from the classic menu and the other from the new. Being a Tuna Tartare fan, I enjoyed Soyka's refreshing version. It came topped with wakame salad, and avocado; bathed in a soy ginger dressing and served with a rosemary crostini. The Watermelon Feta was cool and tasty as well; a nice balance of sweet and salty. The squares of feta cheese were piled between chunks of seedless baby watermelon, while sitting on hydroponic arugula. Drizzles of fresh mint topped the delicious pyramid. In the picture to the right, you will also see the Quinoa Salad that was served on the same plate.

Black Risotto

Sesame Salmon

Another hit for me was the Black Risotto. It was a perfect preparation of carnaroli rice, squid ink, grilled scallions and lobster sauce, with a delicately flavored and mildly sweet jumbo scallop. Now that's what I'm talking about! I'll be looking for that from the right side of the menu on my next visit! Fast forward me now (or rewind me) to a classic: the Sesame Salmon. While nothing out of this world in its preparation, it tasted really good. The salmon was fresh and naturally buttery, and I enjoyed the flavor of the sweet soy with the combination of shiitake mushrooms, red peppers and spinach. Mmmm! The salmon was served on a bed of jasmine rice.

Meat Loaf

Sticky Date Pudding and Cream Puff

Finally, call me traditional, but I have to tell you I absolutely loved the Meat Loaf. I can really see why this comfort food is a Soyka tradition. The meat was flavorful, juicy and tender and it was served with green beans and mashed potatoes with gravy. A dish that you must definitely try if you haven't already. Unfortunately, I can't say that either of the desserts impressed me very much. The Soyka Classic I sampled was the Sticky Date Pudding and the new addition was the Cream Puff.  Neither truly captivated me with its taste or texture.

I feel Soyka's decision to revamp its menu by creating a balance between traditional favorites and novel dishes is definitely Timeless. It provides a variety of selections that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of the preference of their palates. By incorporating American comfort food, with a more contemporary fusion of flavors in tune with the Miami dining scene, Soyka has opened the doors to a new era.

For a look through Soyka's entire updated menu, or for more information, you can contact them at 305-759-3117 or visit them online at http://www.soykarestaurant.com/.

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Xixon

Coming from a Spanish background, and having visited Spain several times, I am constantly looking for an enjoyable, authentic dining experience that will invoke memories of my time there. While I have visited a few Spanish restaurants here in Miami that serve delicious tapas and offer traditional dishes, I was deeply impressed and so incredibly taken aback with my recent adventure at Xixon, located at 2101 SW 22 Street.



The word Xixon, is Asturian for Gijon, a coastal city in northern Spain known for its unique gastronomy and delicious pastries. A visit to Xixon restaurant is a journey deep into the heart of Spain; a combination of traditional, authentic cuisine, with an innovative flair that will entice even the most discriminating palate. That is how I felt from the moment I savored my first bite until the ending of a most memorable meal.


But it's not just the food that will leave you breathless. The layout and decor of the restaurant is amazing as well. It consists of 4 different dining areas: the Main Level, where you also find the Tapas Bar (as well as a Delicatessen and Market); the Mezzanine, which is perfect for larger groups and gatherings; the Vinoteca, a cozy ambiance with a fabulous Wine Cellar patrons can wander in and out of as they choose their wine; and an outdoor Terrace. We had the pleasure of being seated at a very nice table in the Vinoteca area, surrounded by a curtain of bottles of wine.

Their fabulous Wine Cellar

Xixon's dinner menu is extensive, offering a large selection of hot and cold tapas. There are also a variety of Tablas (Platters) boasting cured meats and Spanish cheeses, Pintxos (Small Bites), such as Dates wrapped in Bacon and Duck Croquettes, Meat and Seafood dishes, along with salads, soups, sandwiches, and their Daily Specials. We were able to engage in a true adventure, as their incredibly talented Chef Jon Gonzalez, created authentic and savory dishes for us; most of which are not currently on the menu, but capture the essence of Xixon's cuisine.

Chef Jon, me and Carlos, the owner

Crema de Calabaza and Gazpacho

Sardinas en Escabeche

We started with a shot of both their Gazpacho and their Crema de Calabaza. Gazpacho is a tomato-based vegetable soup, traditionally served cold, that is both refreshing and tasty. Theirs was amazing; zesty yet full of equally balanced flavors, where each ingredient made a subtle appearance. The Crema de Calabaza, or Cream of Pumpkin Soup was the best one I have ever had. I practically inhaled it, it was so good! Served warm, it was velvety and rich, and totally intrigued me, since sometimes pumpkin soup can be a bit acidic and this one was not. I loved it! Next, we were served Sardinas En Escabeche (Marinated Sardines) on top of a slice of toast. Divine! The flavors were so genuine, I literally felt like I was sitting on a seaside tapas bar in Spain.

Ensalada de Carpaccio de Pulpo

Tosta con Queso de Torta del Casar

The next dish blew me away the moment I saw it: Ensalada de Carpaccio de Pulpo, translated to Octopus Carpaccio Salad.  The presentation was gorgeous; both colorful and aromatic, it was a treat to the senses. A delicate balance of mixed greens, mandarin oranges, sweet red peppers, croutons and a slightly sweet sauce, combined utterly well with the thinly sliced octopus. Outrageous! Not quite sure what could follow such a treat, out came a Tosta Con Queso de Torta del Casar. "Tostas" are popular tapas in Spain, consisting of a particular toast, or bread topped with some savory delight. These were topped with an exquisite cheese with a creamy texture called Torta de Casar; which is made from sheep's milk in the Extremadura region of Spain. Very rare, it is made from the milk of Merino and Entrefina sheep, which only produce 75 liters of milk per year per sheep. The cheese was crowned with strawberries in a vinegar reduction that was sublime; incorporating salty with sweet in a magnificent way. Bravo Chef Jon!

Langostinos Gigantes 

Secreto Iberico

Taking us to food oblivion, the next dish was Langostinos Gigantes Salteados Con Puerro, or Giant Prawns Sauteed with Leeks. The prawns were sweet and succulent and the mild onion-like flavor of the leeks, together with the accompanying juice, created a burst of flavors that lingered after each bite. The dish also had a spicy kick to it that took me to yet another level.  Excited to see what was coming up, I smiled when I saw our friendly waitresses Auri and Maria Angeles, coming with our next surprise. It was Secreto Iberico. Secreto Iberico is a special cut between the shoulder and loin of the iberico pig, which is a very lean meat and lightly marbled with fat to produce a rich, exceptional flavor. Wow! It was magical; served on caramelized onions and a tantalizing sauce, and paired with crispy shoestring potatoes that I loved swirling in the tasty juices.

Torrejas con Helado de Turron

Bizcocho de Chocolate

I seriously had to sit back at this point and relive in my mind the grand feast we had just experienced. But there was more coming. No meal is really complete without a happy ending, and ours was coming in the form of Torrejas con Helado de Turron and Bizcocho de Chocolate also served with ice-cream. Torrejas are a kind of bread similar to French Toast, dipped in a sweet syrup that makes you want to lick your fingers. It was soft and somewhat creamy inside, and impossible to put down. Pairing it with a homemade nougat ice-cream that was smooth and luscious made it pure ecstasy. The Chocolate sensation was just as much out of this world; melting slowly in my mouth. Once I reached the center, and the creamy, chocolate filling eased out and onto my spoon, all I could do was look to the Wine Cellar, and wonder if there was room for me to set up a bed and just move in. I can do this everyday!

By the way, the service was spectacular throughout our meal. Since each dish was so intrically and carefully prepared, I had many questions to which everyone I asked was excited to answer and were very knowledgeable about the dishes. I also learned from Maria Angeles that they offer different wine samplings on specific days so it's a great outing in both food and spirits. In case you were wondering, there is complimentary Valet Parking provided so no worries in that department.

I have to end by saying my adventure was of gastronomical proportions and I can't wait to return!  For more information, you can contact them at 305 854-9350 or visit their website at http://www.xixoncafe.com/.

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Taste of the Gables

Imagine sampling dishes from over 20 restaurants all under one roof.  Add to that some yummy Mojitos from Bacardi and the beautiful ambiance of the Westin Colonnade Hotel in Coral Gables, and you got yourself the Taste of Gables; held on Thursday, May 30th 2012.

Here is the scoop you definitely want to know! The Taste of Gables, presented by Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. and the Jackson Family Estates, is a sort of kickoff to the upcoming 5th Annual Coral Gables Restaurant Week taking place from June 4th - June 17th; where over 30 participating restaurants from the Coral Gables area offer a three-course lunch or dinner menu, at a savings of at least 20% off their regular menu prices. Exciting stuff!

This year, a "Blogger's Corner" was featured, and local bloggers were invited to attend and partake in the event while interacting with others on Twitter. I had a great time taking pictures of the food to bring to you, and enjoyed getting a preview of all the delicious, mouth-watering dishes created by the chefs and restaurants participating in Coral Restaurant Week. After tasting the samples, (and gaining a couple of pounds) the lucky attendees had the opportunity to vote for their favorite "taste" of the night. Keep reading and I'll tell you who won!

Trust me when I say I tried to taste as many dishes as possible, but there was a point I thought I'd burst (Think in terms of an overinflated Good Year blimp). It's easy to miss how many wonderful restaurants there are in Coral Gables and events like these bring it all home. Here are a few of my highlights and places you can get your groove on in the next two weeks.

Pardos Peruvian Cuisine provided a great Ceviche fix. I found it was fresh, tasty and refreshing. They also featured a Cilantro rice with rotisserie chicken but I have to say of the two, the ceviche was my favorite.




Tarpon Bend featured one of my favorite tastes of the night: the Shrimp Margarita. Wow! It was a wild combination of flavors I absolutely loved! This spot is great for happy hours and dinner so definitely a must visit during Restaurant Week.





Sushi Maki was in the house sporting a fun selection of rolls! Cali Ocho, 3 Village Roll and a Salmon Miso sushi taco were a few of the delicacies we sampled. Oh and they have a pretty mean Vegetarian Roll that I know would be a hit with my Vegan friends.




Ruth's Chris Steakhouse is also partipating in Restaurant Week and that's great news. They always serve an outstanding, sizzling hot steak but during Taste of Gables, they featured a Prime Beef Slider that made my mouth water. Simply prepared, it was just the patty and the bun...but the meat was magical! Tender, juicy and perfectly seasoned, it was another top favorite of the night.



Cibo Wine Bar had people asking for seconds. After trying their Short Ribs with Gorgonzola Polenta, I knew I had to be planning a food and wine adventure real soon. Offering authentic Italian cuisine, Cibo combines good food with an elegant environment; providing the ideal balance of casual with sophistication.




The Local Craft Food and Drink offers locally sourced dishes served in a neighborhood pub environment; with a selection of 24 unique craft beers to quench the thirst. This evening, their "taste" for the event was an American Beef Carpaccio seasoned in a vinaigrette that certainly woke up the senses. Another one to add to the list. Remember you have two weeks to party.



Fleming's, famous for their prime hand-cut steaks and extensive wine list, served up one of their delicious specialties: a spiced filet mignon with porcini butter sauce. I could hear the crowds ooohing and aaahing with each bite.



Gables Aragon Cuisine was located in the second floor of the Taste of Gables event and when I reached their table, I didn't know if I could eat anymore. But one look at their Aztec Mangu and I knew it was on! Mashed green plantain, stuffed with pieces of chicken and cheese, bathed with a homemade red sauce and sitting on a bed of mashed beans. How does that sound? It immediately reminded me of my recent trip to the D.R.


All these amazing dishes are great but don't you wonder why I haven't mentioned my favorite part of any meal? Well, I wanted to build up suspense before I let you see the sweetest of endings...


Season's 52 Bar & Grill provided us with the pleasure of serving their "mini indulgences".  Decadent desserts served in shot size glasses that  really  made my heart skip a beat. By the time I hit this table, I was so full I was only able to sample one. But after seeing the large selection of tiny sweet pleasures they offer, I can envision myself indulging in two or three. ( I won't ever publicly admit to more.)



I know by now you're probably wondering..but who won? OK I'll tell you. A restaurant whose "taste" was absolutely divine.



Caffe Vialetto truly blew everyone away. Once I saw the lines forming around the table, I knew something big was going on there. They featured a Pear Ravioli that was to die for. Sweet and savory, it was creamy and delicious! I cannot wait to visit them and treat my taste buds to more.

After sampling a little food (OK a lot) and goofing off a bit, I couldn't wait to get home and tell you all about what you can expect the next two weeks when the 5th Annual Coral Restaurant Week officially begins. This is a great opportunity to visit some old favorites and venture out into some new ones. I'd love to hear what your adventures were like so please let me know what was good, what was bad, and what made your senses reel. Who knows? We might just run into each other there. For more information, you can visit their site at http://coralgablesrestaurantweek.com/.

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