CoralGablesMagazine.MAY2025_Issuu

CORAL GABLES

INSIDE THREE PRIVATE COLLECTIONS PLUS ELECTIONS RESULTS 2025 A CENTENNIAL HISTORY OF UM SOCIALIZING AND THE ART OF AGING

“Femme Cheval” by Wifredo Lam, Cuban. 1957

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Plastic Surgery

Fears and Anxiety

Many patients harbor fears about Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. That’s understandable and even serves a protective function, since it is real surgery, though a personal choice and not medically required. You may have heard about complications in the news, seen bad results in celebs, on media and even in your own circles (“don’t want to end up or look like that”).

There are two categories of fear causing anxiety: medical risks and poor aesthetic outcomes - “Will I be ok?” and “How will I look?

Regarding the first, some patients have anxiety about anesthesia. There are three basic types of anesthesia - local, sedation and general. With local, you’re wide awake and the site of surgery is numbed with injections. Sedation involves numbing injections but while under the influence of sedatives for relaxation. With general anesthesia you are asleep, not just the site of surgery. General anesthesia represents a spectrum from light to deep, depending on the procedure. An advantage with facelifts is that all areas can be numbed with local anesthesia. Thus the level of general anesthesia can be light, just enough to keep you asleep until surgery is over. Having a patient asleep and safely monitored during surgery provides the highest level of surgical control during delicate procedures and is most comfortable for patients, especially anxious ones.

Sometimes patients are told, likely to ease their fear, that their procedure will be done under ‘only’ sedation even though the level of sedation will be so deep that they are asleep. The line between deep (i.e. unconscious) sedation and general anesthesia is blurry and depends on medications used and how the patient’s airway and breathing are managed. For conscious sedation, nasal oxygen may suffice as the patient is still able to control their own airway. For deeper levels (i.e. when you’re asleep) more secure options are a laryngeal, or the safest, an endotracheal airway. Monitoring and controlling the patient’s breathing during surgery is critical for safety. Being asleep for surgery under anesthesia with a proper airway has an excellent safety record (better than driving!) if provided by an experienced, board-certified anesthesiologist in an accredited surgical center.

Baker MD

Other medical fears include actual medical/surgical risks such as bleeding, infections, damage to deeper structures or blood clots. When in the hands of an experienced surgeon, these risks can be minimized, to less than 1%. So these risks should be viewed relative to other risks of daily living.

What about aesthetic risks - what is your result going to look like? That’s where most risk exists as it varies widely with surgeon training, experience and artistic skill. Board certification in Plastic Surgery is only a starting point and thoughtful research is strongly advised to reduce the potential for disappointment. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery should strive for beauty, yet be subtle, and look normal and natural. Overly obvious results are probably not very good - better to have others wonder as to why you look good.

In summary, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in a properly selected and realistic patient, with an experienced surgeon and appropriate anesthesia has the potential to improve one’s quality of life, with high safety and low risk.

STEPHAN BAKER, MD, FACS

Plastic Surgery of the Face Breast and Body

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

305.381.8837 | www.drbaker.com

3850 Bird Road Suite 702, Miami, FL 33146

Stephan

Departments

EDITOR’S

READERS’

STREETWISE

LIVING

Best Bets for May

& Wellness

New Openigs

A Night on the Town

BITES

Quick Bites: Eggs

Fine Dining: Snra. Martinez

Three New Restaurants

Happy Hour: THesis Hotel

PEOPLE

Jonathan Marin

Tuana Yazici

Andrés Camilo Concha

BACK OF BOOK

Home & Garden: Pollinators

Historic Preservation

Don’s Rambles: Duffy’s Tavern

The Seen: The Junior League

Surfing in El Zonte

Gables

THREE PRIVATE COLLECTIONS

Every so often Coral Gables Magazine takes a look at some of the private collections in the city. Because the Gables is home to so many Cuban Americans, the collections here tend to skew toward Cuban art. That is clear as we present some favorite canvasses of three Gables art collectors.

THE SUITE LIFE OF SENIORS

Socialization isn’t just about companionship and warm, fuzzy feelings – it plays a critical role in cognitive health. Research shows that staying socially engaged can help support brain function as we age. For many Coral Gables seniors, integrating into a community can do just this.

THE U TURNS 100

The University of Miami: A Century of Higher Ed in Coral Gables. The early days of Coral Gables showed just how much Merrick prioritized education. The city’s elementary school opened in October 1921, and in an ad from December of that same year, Merrick proclaimed that “Miami should and can have… a university.”

PIONEERING THE NEXT ERA OF CANCER CARE

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Join us in this movement to fund a cancer-free future.

Murugesan Manoharan, M.D., FRACS

Chief

of Urologic Oncologic Surgery

Abbhi Family Endowed Chair in Urologic Oncology

Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute

Three Cheers for Democracy

Anyone who has read this column over the last year understands our dismay at the dysfunctional antics at City Hall, where a three-vote block has pushed back against progressive legislation in the city, threatened the city’s fiscal integrity, and instituted what amounted to a reign of terror that resulted in the loss of some of the best talent working for the city, including the loss of a highly competent city manager, a highly competent director of building services, and an exemplary city attorney.

With the re-election of Mayor Vince Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson, and the run-off election of Richard Lara, the power of what we referred to as the Gang of Three, or the troika of Commissioners Ariel Fernandez, Melissa Castro, and Kirk Menendez, has been broken. Moreover, the robust turnout of voters has proven that they did not represent the majority of residents (as they claimed), and that their election was indeed the result of a small (albeit dedicated) turnout of voters in the last election.

What is most refreshing about this election is the fact that the majority of voters in Coral Gables were able to see through the

astonishingly negative and downright dirty tactics of opposition to Lago, Anderson and, ultimately, Lara – everything from groundless attacks on Mayor Lago’s personal life to false accusations of Vice Mayor Anderson’s record on approvals for building heights. Both are dedicated public officials who are committed to enhancing the public life of Coral Gables residents and the well-being of the city. We expect Lara to continue in the same mold of conscientious governance.

Above all, we look forward to the return of civility at City Hall. Coral Gables has long distinguished itself as a city where government has been conducted with calm and mutual respect, a dignity which was overturned by the troika, whose disruptive antics – and bad agenda – turned City Commission meetings into displays of unseemly behavior.

Three cheers for democracy. The people have spoken.

JP FABER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CORAL GABLES MAGAZINE

CEO & PUBLISHER

Richard Roffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

J.P. Faber

EVP / PUBLISHER

Gail Scott

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amy Donner

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Monica Del Carpio-Raucci

VP SALES

Sherry Adams

MANAGING EDITOR

Kylie Wang

DIGITAL EDITOR

Amanda Martell

ART DIRECTOR

Jon Braeley

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jorge G. Gavilondo

WRITERS

Andrew Gayle

Katelin Stecz

Tina Wingate

Patrick Alexander

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rodolfo Benitez

Jonathan Dann

PROOFREADER

Lesley Fonger

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Luke Chaney

Viviana Caram

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION CircIntel

OFFICIAL FRAMER Adam Brand / Frames USA

Coral Gables Magazine is published monthly by City Regional Media, 1200 Anastasia Ave. Suite 115, Coral Gables FL 33134. Telephone: (305) 995-0995. Copyright 2024 by City Regional Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Send address changes to subscriptions@coralgablesmagazine.com. General mailbox email and letters to editor@ coralgablesmagazine.com.

Cover: “Femme Cheval” by Wifredo Lam, Cuban. 1957, photograph by Rodolfo Benitez Paiting courtesy of Dr. Luis de la Vega

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Each month we print letters we receive from our readers. We encourage all commentary, included criticism as well as compliments, and of course any commentary about our community. If you are interested in writing to us with your opinions, thoughts, or suggestions, please send them to letters@coralgablesmagazine.com. Letters may be edited for brevity.

The Sign of the Times

A referendum. A mandate. A course correction. Call it what you will, but the turnout of the run- off election on Tuesday, April 22 nd demonstrated the overwhelming strength of the silent majority. The same majority that spoke out against the salary increases and against firing Peter Iglesias. The same majority that expressed discontent with the hiring of Amos Rojas Jr. The same majority that saw through the mask of political theater and sought a candidate that would navigate the narrative of a false pretense of “Residents First.” 4,358 residents voted for Richard Lara - more votes than Ariel Fernandez, Melissa Castro or even Kirk Menendez ever received. Because they want elections in November. Because they want a return to proper process and function of our government. Because they want a commissioner who truly represents the majority but will respect the minority and their opinions.

Nicolas R. Cabrera

Kudos and Criticism

Congratulations on a wonderful April issue, celebrating our city’s first hundred years. While mourning the recent loss of ‘Mr. Coral Gables’, Mark Trowbridge, it is appropriate that he should listed and honored along with the city’s other founding luminaries like Phineus Paiste and Doc Dammers. My only disappointment is that you did not include Denman Fink in your People Section. It was George Merrick’s uncle and lifelong friend, Denman Fink, who first introduced George to the City Beautiful movement, and it was Fink’s hauntingly beautiful illustrations and posters which powered Merrick’s marketing efforts. It was also Denman Fink’s vision and design which created most of Coral Gable’s most iconic buildings, from the grand entrances along SW 8th  Street, the Venetian Pool and even City Hall. Denman Fink is a truly under-appreciate ‘father’ of Coral Gables.

Patrick Alexander

Not So Clear Cut

I agree with you that the rancorous tenor of the City Commission is uncalled for. But Mayor Lago is no saint. He is [allied with] developers that have made, and continue to make, this beloved City more and more unlivable. The density in downtown Gables as well as up and down US1 has made and continues to evolve the Gables into an unrecognizable community. 30 years a Gables’ resident and I am soooo tired of the rubber-stamping commission of which Lago is the latest figurehead. I enjoy your magazine…. but please stay away from politics…. you are a lifestyle publication. And the lifestyle of Coral Gables continues to change for the worse as the population balloons and infrastructure and vital services lag behind. Not a fan of the rancor, certainly. But neither of uncontrolled development. Two more years now to continue the unfettered buildout.

Dr. Richard D. Morales II

Streetwise

Talk of the Town

See Page 24

A 50-FOOT STEEL SCULPTURE “LADY”

BY AMERICAN ARTIST JOHN HENRY

AT THE LOWE ART MUSEUM

PHOTO BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

Election 2025: A Robust Turnout

Ahighly contentious and barb-filled election season has finally come to a close, with three Coral Gables Commission seats having been filled, one after going to a run-off. Mayor Vince Lago and Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson were both re-elected in the first round of voting April 8, while Richard Lara was elected in the April 22 runoff.

The April 8 election saw a historically high turnout of 29.62 percent (10,123 voters) of registered Coral Gables voters casting ballots. This was up significantly from 2023’s 20.91 percent (6,905 voters) turnout. In fact, it was the highest voter turnout since 2001.

Lago took a decisive victory in the mayoral race, winning reelection with 55.47 percent of the votes over Kirk Menendez (37.72 percent) and Michael Anthony Abbott (6.82 percent). Menendez must now vacate his seat on the Commission, where he has served as Commissioner since 2021.

Anderson won even more decisively with 58.24 percent of the votes and a sweeping victory in all 16 of the city’s precincts, beating out opponents Felix Pardo (37.29 percent) and Laureano Cancio (4.47 percent).

In the April 8 vote, both Richard Lara (47.2 percent) and Tom Wells (39.23 percent) far out-paced Claudia Miro (13.57 percent)

for the Group III seat abandoned by Menendez, though neither was able to win the coveted majority of votes needed to bypass a runoff. That race was won in the April 22 runoff by Lara, claiming victory with 4,352 votes (55.4 percent of votes cast) over Wells with 3,504 votes (44.6 percent of votes cast). That contest saw another record turnout -- 23.1 percent of registered voters – a largest turnout of any Coral Gables runoff election.

With the Commission having been split into two factions since last election, when Commissioners Ariel Fernandez and Melissa Castro were elected and soon turned Menendez to their way of thinking, the election and the runoff were seen as a vindication of the agendas of Mayor Lago and Vice Mayor Anderson. These included fiscal responsibility, managed growth, lower taxes, expansion of green spaces, protection of the tree canopy, environmental sustainability, and greater voter participation, among other issues.

Lara, the executive vice president and general counsel for Spanish Broadcasting System, was endorsed by the Mayor and Vice Mayor, while Wells, also an attorney, was considered a candidate who could supplant Menendez while keeping power in the same Fernandez/Castro camp. He also serves on the city’s Charter Review Committee.

Both candidates’ campaigns centered largely on the issue of incivility within the Commission, with both pledging to restore order. However, Wells also made his disdain for Mayor Vince Lago apparent. He had been endorsed by former Commissioner Menendez, while Claudia Miro endorsed Lara, encouraging the 1,356 residents who voted for her to support the winning candidate.

With the election now over, citizens can expect a return to an orderly City Hall and to the progressive legislation and competent governance that has been the hallmark of the Lago/Anderson administration. ■

VOTERS ELECT VINCE LAGO, RHONDA ANDERSON, AND RICHARD LARA

VICE MAYOR RHONDA ANDERSON, MAYOR VINCE LAGO, AND COMMISSIONER RICHARD LARA

BY CORAL GABLES STAFF

Another Week, Another Major Corporate Relocation

In a blockbuster deal marking one of South Florida’s largest office transactions in the last two years, City National Bank of Florida has announced it will be moving its headquarters to Coral Gables. The bank will be taking nearly 145,000-square-feet of office space at 2701 South Le Jeune Road, which formerly housed the Infiniti car dealership. The deal also includes naming rights, meaning the building will soon be known as the City National Financial Center once it moves in in 2026. Eight hundred staff will make the move with the bank, which last year announced a partnership with University of Miami (UM) as well. As UM’s partner, the bank provides exclusive banking products and benefits to students, alumni, faculty, and staff of the university. It also opened a new banking center and ATMs on-campus and began an aggressive sponsorship campaign with UM’s athletics program. City National Bank has almost $30 billion in assets and a presence across South and Central Florida.

– Kylie Wang

Save the Manatees

A movement is growing in Coral Gables to save manatees that may be threatened by a new development along the city’s Mahi Canal, a branch of the Coral Gables Waterway that intersects U.S.1 near the THesis Hotel. Called The Gables Waterway, the proposed mixeduse project would replace existing low-rise buildings with two condo mid-rises totaling 251 units, including retail and parking space. One building would be nine stories, the other 13; the entire

development would rest on 4.8 acres. Residents fear that construction and added foot traffic will force the manatees who frequent the canal in the winter to move out of the only primary warm water refuge in the county, designated as a seasonal Manatee Protection Zone. There are further concerns that shade from the proposed

A PARTNERSHIP WITH UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI: UM’S DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS DAN RADAKOVICH WITH CITY NATIONAL BANK CEO JORGE GONZALEZ

A MOVEMENT IN CORAL GABLES TO SAVE THE MANATEES IS GROWING

5

buildings could decrease water temperatures and inhibit the growth of seagrass, which manatees feed on. The Florida manatee is currently classified as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The Fortune Development project has yet to be submitted to the Coral Gables Planning and Zoning Board, which will approve or deny it. – Kylie Wang

Centennial Celebration

The University of Miami celebrated the 100th anniversary of its charter on April 8, and thousands of students, alumni, and Coral Gables residents visited the school to commemorate and celebrate the milestone. The evening kicked off at 5 pm with the ’Canes Carnival, where guests rode a swing carousel and Ferris wheel, got their faces painted, and savored classic fair food like popcorn and fried Oreos. Food trucks serving ice cream, mac and cheese, tacos, and more were set up behind the Student Center Complex for a Centennial Block Party. Live music was also played along the Lakeside Patio.

The night was capped off with a Centennial Concert hosted by TV personality and UM alumnus Jason Kennedy. The concert featured legendary Frost School of Music alumni spanning several generations, playing some of their iconic songs. Notable performers included singer/songwriter Bruce Hornsby, jazz guitarist Pat

FIREWORKS MARKED THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI’S CELEBRATION OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF ITS CHARTER, ON APRIL 8TH

Metheny and pop legend Jon Secada. Following the concert, spectators gathered around Lake Osceola for a dazzling fireworks display honoring UM’s achievements. – Luke Chaney

Meters for Trees

In a continuation of its sustainability initiatives, the City of Coral Gables has signed up for the Meters for Trees program. First launched in 2019 by PayByPhone, the online parking payment system used by the city since 2011, Meters for Trees aims to replace antiquated parking infrastructure (parking meters!) with – you guessed it – trees. PayByPhone will plant one new tree for every multi-space parking pay station the city removes, and another new tree for every 10 single-space parking meters the city discards. This could total 313 new trees for Coral Gables. Gables’ Fewell Park will also benefit, as PayByPhone will spend $500 to plant trees there.

“As a Tree City USA for 40 years and counting, we take immense pride in preserving and enhancing our urban forest, which con-

THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ALONG THE CITY’S MAHI CANAL, A BRANCH OF THE CORAL GABLES WATERWAY

FAMILY FIRST

The Many Hats of Judy Zeder

Judy Zeder: A real estate trail-blazer paving the way for the next generation of female leaders

Judy Zeder wears many hats — both personal and professional. Respected real estate veteran, far-sighted industry insider, and leader of half of the nationally renowned JillsZeder Group. But to Zeder’s most trusted colleagues, she’s often simply “mom.” Having begun her real estate career almost three decades ago, she now helps lead what The Wall Street Journal has crowned the Number One Real Estate team in the nation.

Real estate for Zeder is truly a family affair — anchored in the intuitive sense of trust and familiarity that comes from partnering with her son, Nathan, daughter, Kara and daughter-in-law, Meredith. “From childhood on through to today, I was always deeply involved in the lives of my children,” Judy says. “They grew up surrounded by home tours and record-setting deals. And when the time came for them to join forces, each answered the call.” But nothing was guaranteed, triumph was far from certain. Every Zeder has earned their place in the family firm. “Success has never been a right,” says Judy, “but a privilege.”

PLACE AT THE TABLE

Hard work, dedication, meticulous attention to detail – these are the hallmarks of both the Zeder team and family. The Zeders may now be real estate superstars, but each has forged a unique path toward personal and professional accomplishment. Nathan Zeder brings the discipline and dedication honed from his previous career as a protennis player. Kara Rosen Zeder was a leading commercial real estate developer before shifting into residential sales. Meredith Zeder is a veteran multi-national beverage executive who deeply understands consumer tastes and demands. Like Judy herself, “each has proven their value and worth,” she says, “both to the clients they serve and to the family and company they represent proudly.”

VALUE PROPOSITION

A shared mission and purpose informs everything the Zeders do, rooted in the foundational values instilled by Judy Zeder herself. The Zeder team is far more than a mere business, “we are partners who understand that real estate — much like family — is the ultimate

long-term investment,” Judy says. Every client — every challenge — benefits from the entire Zeder team; each member bringing their distinctive expertise to help even the most complex negotiations achieve an optimal outcome. “We try to maintain some balance between work-life and home-life,” Judy explains with a loving laugh, “but often that is impossible. And we (mostly) wouldn’t have it any other way.”

PAYING IT FORWARD

Success is only truly sweet for leaders like Judy Zeder when they can help others grow along with them. And this is especially true for the next generation of women rising in real estate. “Public speaking at conferences and events allows me to lead by example in an industry that can still favor competition over collaboration,” Judy says. This desire to help other women — particularly other mothers during this season celebrating motherhood — is the key to cultivating future female leaders, like Meredith and Kara, who personify Zeder’s pioneering spirit. “My entire family is ready to lead alongside me,” Judy says. “Because they’re already doing so.” This Mother’s Day season, hats off to every woman who, like Judy Zeder, manages to do it all.

Ranked the No. 1 Team in the U.S. by The Wall Street

Journal, Judy Zeder is a Passionate Advocate for the Everglades

Judy Zeder and Family

Judy Zeder and Jill Hertzberg | The Jills Zeder Group

tributes to a more sustainable, resilient, and beautiful Coral Gables for current and future generations,” said Monica Beltran, the city’s director for parking, mobility services, and sustainability. “This initiative seamlessly promotes mobile parking payments while directly supporting our city’s commitment to environmental stewardship by planting trees that help combat deforestation, reduce urban heat, and mitigate climate change.” Meters for Trees was first unveiled in the UK in 2019. Since then, through it and other environmental campaigns, PayByPhone has planted over 225,000 trees globally. – Luke Chaney

TWO PARK GROVE, UNIT 17D

Unveiling of the “Lady”

The University of Miami recently held a reception for the unveiling of “Lady,” a 50-foot steel sculpture by American artist John Henry. Painted in Coca-Cola red and installed in front of the Lowe Art Museum, the piece – valued at $900,000 – now stands as one of the most visible additions to the university’s growing collection of outdoor art. The sculpture was a gift from the Palley family, which has supported the arts at UM for decades. Known for their role in bringing large-scale works to campus, the Palleys have helped shape an environment where students and visitors encounter art in everyday spaces: on walkways, near lecture halls, and across green lawns. “Lady” continues that tradition. (Contd. pg. 30)

Suspended between sk y and sea, this haven of luxur y captures breathtaking Biscayne Bay and cit y views through walls of glass Experience refined elegance with designer finishes and expansive living spaces in Coconut Grove's most coveted address, where world-class amenities elevate coastal living to an art form

THE METERS FOR TREES PROGRAM COULD TOTAL 313 NEW TREES FOR CORAL GABLES

THE 50-FOOT STEEL SCULPTURE “LADY” BY AMERICAN ARTIST JOHN HENRY AT THE LOWE ART MUSEUM

The event, which brought together faculty, students, and community members, was both an unveiling and a moment to acknowledge the Palleys’ ongoing impact on the campus landscape. Family scion Lisa Palley says “Lady” is meant to be more than a sculpture, but also a point of reference, rest, and inspiration. “She [the sculpture] is so happy to be home, to welcome everyone to the University of Miami campus, and will always be there,” said Palley, “as a place to meet up, a place for repose, a place to think, to dream, to reach for the stars.” The event was co-hosted by the Lowe Art Museum and the College of Arts & Sciences. – Amanda Martell

Looking for a Few Good Men

While Coral Gables remains one of the safest cities in the state, it could still use additional police officers. A recent public announce-

ment by City Manager Alberto Parjus outlined the situation: currently there are 29 police vacancies in a force that should exceed 220 officers. Fifteen of those vacancies are for new positions added in the last three years. The good news is that there are 11 officers in training at the county police academy, with another 18 undergoing “rigorous background checks.” So far in 2025, eight new officers have been hired.

The unfilled positions do not reflect any problems attracting new recruits – there have been some 283 new applications this year alone, as of mid-April. It’s more a question of quality. Out of the 283 applications, only 45 were considered worthy of an interview, of which 39 were given the okay to progress further. Last year, the City Commission approved a competitive pay and benefits package that includes a $10,000 hiring bonus. – J.P.Faber

CORAL GABLES POLICE CHIEF ED HUDAK

Timeless Elegance, Effortless Living

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All prices are subject to change and do not include optional features, design packages, or premiums for upgrades. This Condominium has been registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons F-1287-01-01. The complete offering terms for New York residents are in a CPS-12 application available from the offeror at File No. CP23-0071. WARNING TO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: The California Department of Real Estate has not inspected, examined, or qualified this offering. This advertisement is a solicitation for the sale of units in 1809 Brickell Condominium N.J. Registration No 23-04-0009. 1809 Brickell Property Owner, LLC 2025.

Thank you, Coral Gables.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Coral Gables for your overwhelming support. With more than 10,000 votes cast — the highest turnout in a municipal election in over five years — our community sent a clear message: it’s time to restore trust, bring stability back to City Hall, and put residents first.

This election was not just about a campaign — it was about the direction of our city. It reflected a desire for accountable leadership, greater transparency, and a renewed focus on the priorities of our residents. I am deeply grateful for your confidence and remain committed to serving with the integrity, dedication, and steady leadership Coral Gables deserves.

As your Mayor, I will continue working to deliver on the five pledges I made to you: •

Rolling back the commission’s unethical 101% pay raises

Moving elections to November — saving taxpayers $200,000 per cycle and increasing voter participation

Hiring an independent Inspector General to help ensure accountability and prevent corruption

Building new parks at no cost to taxpayers

Finding the best City Manager for Coral Gables

Thank you to my family, my team, and the many residents who stood with us. Let us move forward with purpose, civility, and a shared commitment to protecting what makes Coral Gables such a special place to call home.

Thank you, Mayor Vince Lago

PLUS HEALTH & WELLNESS NEW OPENINGS NIGHT ON THE TOWN

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: BEETHOVEN’S BEST WORKS ON MAY 8TH AT THE CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

May Best Bets

MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS, PLAYS, SHORT FILMS, AND MORE

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: BEETHOVEN’S BEST WORKS

Listen to some of Beethoven’s top compositions while surrounded by a hypnotizing candlelight glow at the Coral Gables Congregational Church. The concert is on Thurs., May 8 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Doors open 45 minutes prior to the start time; late entry is not allowed. Tickets range from $46 to $65. 3010 De Soto Blvd. gablesucc.org

LATIN 2 PIANO: FROM RIO TO MIAMI

Featuring pianists Thito Camargo and Phil DeGreg, and joined by bass, drums, and percussion players, Dranoff 2 Piano Fusion presents a night of upbeat Brazilian tunes with “Latin 2 Piano: From Rio to Miami.” This celebration of authentic Brazilian musical styles starts at 4 pm on Fri., May 9 and takes place at the Sanctuary of the Arts. Tickets range from $8 to $48, including fees. 410 Andalusia Ave. sanctuaryofthearts.org

AN EVENING WITH DAVE BARRY

Celebrated columnist, bestselling author, and Pulitzer Prize winner Dave Barry takes the stage at Books & Books on Sat., May 10 at 7 pm to discuss “Class Clown,” a vibrant autobiography that tells Dave’s story from being “an obscure humor writer nobody ever heard of to a much better-known humor writer.” Tickets costs $29

and include a copy of “Class Clown.” Bring a guest for only $5! 265 Aragon Ave. booksandbooks.com

PASSAGE TO INDIA

The Coral Gables Woman’s Club is celebrating Mother’s Day on Sat., May 10 from 1 to 4 pm with an Indian-themed afternoon tea party. This event, which will also include a silent auction, will feature a selection of Prosecco, fragrant teas, and treats. Proceeds from the silent auction will help the Coral Gables Children’s Dental Clinic provide care for children. Tickets range from $80 to $150. 1001 E Ponce De Leon Blvd. coralgableswomansclub.org

MOTHER’S DAY MINI MARKET

Waited until the last-minute to get your mom a Mother’s Day gift? No worries! Bring her to the Little Local Mini Market at Books & Books on Sun., May 11 from 9 am to 4 pm for a Mother’s Daythemed farmers market that will feature mom-friendly vendors, $5 mimosas, exclusive giveaways, and the new Books & Books brunch menu. 265 Aragon Ave. littlelocal.co

“THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN”

Meet Rachel Watson, a troubled train-goer who becomes linked with the lives of her fellow passengers on their daily commute. She’s the main character of “The Girl on the Train,” the psychological thriller based on the bestselling novel by Paula Hawkins and the DreamWorks film. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre brings this story to life from May 14 to June 8. Performances are at 8 pm on Wednesdays through Saturdays and at 3 pm on Sundays. Tickets cost between $50 and $105. 280 Miracle Mile. actorsplayhouse.org

“FAT HAM”

This remake of Shakespear’s iconic “Hamlet” play won a Pulitzer Prize in 2022 and is coming to Coral Gables from May 16 to June 15 at GableStage. In “Fat Ham,” Juicy’s already turbulent life turns upside down when his father’s ghost arrives at the family’s backyard barbeque seeking revenge. The show will run Wednesdays through Saturdays from 7:30 to 9:10 pm. Afternoon performances will be held on Wednesdays and Sundays, starting at 2 pm. Tickets range from $50 to $85. 1200 Anastasia Ave #230 (The Biltmore Hotel). gablestage.org

GABLES BIKE TOUR

This month’s Gables Bike Tour will have you strolling on foot, as former mayor Don Slesnick leads a leisurely walking tour through downtown Coral Gables to celebrate the city’s 100th anniversary. The tour will start at Coral Gables Museum on Sun., May 18 at 10 am and last until noon. Tickets are $5 to $10. 285 Aragon Ave. coralgablesmuseum.org

SIP & STROLL: BACK TO THE 80’S

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is turning back the time on Thurs., May 22 from 6 to 9 pm with its next Sip & Stroll night centered around the 1980s. For $35 to $40, the garden will turn retro

and feature ‘80s-inspired cocktails, high-energy live music that will include the disco anthems we all miss, an ‘80s fashion contest, and a garden stroll. Exclusive add-ons will also be made available. 10901 Old Cutler Rd. fairchildgarden.org

TASTE OF SUCCESS

On Thurs., May 22, foodies can celebrate the city’s top culinary creators at Taste of Success, a benefit event supporting the Summer of Success program for young adults with autism and learning difficulties. With exclusive tastings, live panels, and a foodie farmers’ market, this event at the Coral Gables Woman’s Club will have you salivating. Tickets are $125 for general admission and $175 for VIPs. 1001 E Ponce de Leon Blvd. tasteofsuccessexp.org.

The work of surrealist filmmaker David Lynch will be celebrated at the Coral Gables Art Cinema on Sat., May 24 from 10 to 11 pm with 2K digital restoration screenings of six early experimental works of his: “Six Men Getting Sick,” “The Alphabet,” “The Grandmother,” “The Amputee,” “Version 1” and “Version 2,” and “Premonitions Following an Evil Deed.” Tickets cost between $11 and $12.75. Each film lasts about 10 minutes. 260 Aragon Ave. gablescinema.com ■

SHORT FILMS OF DAVID LYNCH

A limited collection of 10 bespoke, three-story Brownstones in the heart of Coral Gables, meticulously crafted by the master builders at The Calta Group.

We warmly invite you to be among the first to explore this unique opportunity by appointment only.

The Italian Touch

A LOOK AT SPACAGNA’S DEGRADÉ COLORING METHOD

BY MELISSA PUPPO

I’ve been coloring my hair for as long as I can remember, usually opting for traditional highlights or trendy balayage. I prefer low-maintenance upkeep, so when I learned that Spacagna Italian Hair Design on Miracle Mile offered Degradé, an exclusive coloring method rarely seen in South Florida, I had to experience it for myself.

Degradé originated in Italy, which is where salon owners and master stylists Guido and Stefano Spacagna are from. It uses at least two different color shades applied vertically to the hair to create a more natural gradient effect than ombre or balayage. And, since the transition is more gradual, regrowth is less noticeable, and touch-ups aren’t needed as frequently.

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous the morning of my appointment when I learned that Degradé colors the entirety of your hair – something I wasn’t used to. But Stefano assured me the result would be soft and natural, and with the brothers’ expertise, I was reassured.

The Naples natives opened their salon in 2018 after training at the acclaimed Rossano Ferretti Academy in Parma, Italy, and following international careers. Stefano honed his craft in salons across Europe, but his journey wasn’t without challenges. Arriving in Vienna with just $100 and a suitcase, he slept in a salon before getting his footing. He then moved to Germany to attend the Vidal Sassoon academy, working there for six years before becoming the creative director. Meanwhile, Guido’s path led him from Europe to the Maldives, where he eventually became a personal stylist for a

Kuwaiti ambassador’s wife. His travels then took him across the U.S. until he reunited with his brother after nine years apart.

On the morning of my appointment, the Spacagna brothers immediately made me feel right at home with a frothy cappuccino. We started with an in-depth color consultation to ensure we were aligned on my desired look and so Stefano could select the perfect shades. Degradé blends up to four colors and bleach for a seamless, multi-dimensional effect that looks effortless and natural.

Stefano meticulously sectioned my hair and applied each color in delicate, vertical strokes, layer by layer. Unlike traditional methods that apply color horizontally, Degradé’s vertical approach allows for a blended transition between shades. I then sat with a head full of foils, letting the magic develop.

Post-dye, Stefano used the earthy, deeply hydrating Vita shampoo and conditioner, followed by an Essenza serum – part of Aeterna, the brothers’ newly launched all-natural Italian hair care line, developed over two years of research. The line features two distinct collections, Aqua and Vita, which blend centuries of Italian beauty tradition with clean, high-quality ingredients.

We finished with a blowout, and I was instantly mesmerized. After posting a quick selfie, my phone lit up with messages asking where I got my hair done. The compliments confirmed what I already knew.

For the Spacagna brothers, exceptional hair is just one element of their vision. “We always try to offer the highest quality service – something often missing in Miami,” shares Guido. “It’s the small touches – the cappuccinos, the way we treat our clients. That’s our secret.” After experiencing Degradé firsthand, that secret is out. ■

STEFANO SPACAGNA CAREFULLY APPLIES EACH COLOR VERTICALLY TO ALLOW FOR A BLENDED TRANSITION BETWEEN SHADES

New Openings

Plénitude MedSpa

Coral Gables has no shortage of med spas, but most fall into one of two camps: ultra-luxurious or overly clinical. Plénitude Medical & Wellness Spa, just off Miracle Mile, skips the extremes. Founded by retired plastic surgeon Dr. Brad Herman and wellness specialist Mirella Besteiro, it blends advanced aesthetics with no-pressure wellness in a space that feels thoughtful and calm.

Treatments include Morpheus8 skin tightening, Evolve X body sculpting, and facials that can be tailored with gua sha (gentle Chinese face scraping), red light therapy, or a 24-karat gold mask. Injectables are also offered, with a focus on subtle, natural-looking results. Everything is designed to be approachable with no complicated terms or overwhelming options.

In addition to skincare, Plénitude offers halotherapy in a Himalayan salt room, PEMF therapy for circulation and recovery, and IV drips geared toward hydration, energy, or immunity. Seasonal packages like the Spring Detox combine services for those looking to reset, while memberships offer added flexibility and access to wellness events.

The team, led by nurse practitioner Taryn D’adesky and aesthetician Anaelle Ranha, brings clinical expertise with a personal touch. It’s the kind of place where you can ask questions, take your time, and focus on what works for you.

Plénitude offers something rare in a city that rarely slows down. It’s not about chasing trends or promising instant results, but about showing up for yourself in small, intentional ways. And here, that’s more than enough – Amanda Martell

343 ARAGON AVE

786.536.7677

@PLENITUDEMEDSPA

Yoga Joint

If you’ve ever stepped into a yoga class, expecting to leave feeling centered and calm, only to emerge drenched in sweat and wondering if you’ve just done a triathlon, you’ll understand what we mean when we say a class at Yoga Joint is hard work.

Upon checking in, we found ourselves immediately intrigued by the reception area, which doubles as a boutique – think yoga mats, apparel, and sleek water bottles to fuel your practice. After stashing our belongings in a designated locker, it was time for what we soon realized would not be your typical vinyasa flow class. The room was set to a scorching 96 degrees, enough to get our muscles primed and our minds focused – not to mention, our sweat running.

The class started with breathwork, a nice introduction to what would soon be a high-energy workout. As the music shifted to upbeat tunes, we knew this wouldn’t your average yoga class. High-Octane Training combines yoga principles with plyometrics, cardio, and weights, ensuring you’ll move, sweat, and lift in ways you never thought possible. Each move was purposeful, designed to challenge your limits and build strength within an essential yoga foundation.

By the time we wrapped up, we were all feeling the burn, but also energized. It was a workout that pushed us while leaving us eager for more. Next time: Yoga Joint’s vinyasa-inspired Hot Flow class, which offers, hopefully, a bit more Zen. – Amanda Martell ■

ORDINARY YOGA CLASS, BUT A HIGH-INTENSITY, HIGH-TEMP WORKOUT

CALL DREW...He Closes a Deal EVERY 4

Baseball, Beer and a Slice of Heaven

BY KYLIE WANG

They say the years you spend in college are the best of your life – and, as a University of Miami (UM) graduate, I tend to agree. So, on a recent Wednesday evening, I brought along a friend to relive the good old days at school, back when we could do a night out on a measly $20 budget offset by free student tickets and discounted beers.

The U might be known primarily for its football team, but its baseball games at Mark Light Field are not only more economical, but, in our opinion, just as fun – and closer to home. We picked up $17 general admission tickets online a few days before an evening game versus home rivals Florida International University (FIU), which promised to be a packed, high-energy spectacle. But, of course, we started the night the right way by first heading to the nearby Titanic Brewery for a quick drink before the game.

Nearly everyone at Titanic was seemingly doing the same as we were, though we were lucky enough to grab a parking spot right out front an hour before first pitch. Over glasses of Triple Screw ($7 during happy hour), an easy-drinking German-style light ale, we scrolled through the Hurricanes roster and schedule to make our predictions alongside a boisterous crowd of ‘Canes fans.

Right around game-start at 6 pm, we crossed the street and made it just early enough to grab one of the Light’s iconic milkshakes,

though we had to wait in a quickly lengthening line. We chose the Columbus (double Oreo, double sprinkles) and brought it up to the benches. For a slightly higher price, you can reserve seats on the field instead of sitting in the concrete grandstands, but we preferred to rough it like the students we once were. Unfortunately for us, the ‘Canes were not in winning form that evening. At the end of the first inning, FIU was up 5-0, which is when we made our first pit stop for glasses of ice-cold beer – luckily for us, only $4 on Wednesdays. We won’t disclose how many trips we made back underneath the stands for a refresh, though we will say the final score of 10-2 did contribute to our slightly off-kilter walk to Miami’s Best Pizza at the end of the night.

Despite the loss, the game was still entertaining, full of the kind of energy and verve one can only find at a college sports game. The faithful Hurricanes die-hards chanted, booed, whistled, and roared right up until the final pitch, and, caught up in the moment, we found ourselves doing the same with a spirit we hadn’t felt since our own days as students at The U.

Finally, we followed along with the crowd to Miami’s Best, where we nursed our disappointed egos with a jalapeño and pepperoni pie and some oil-soaked garlic bread rolls that easily brought us back to life. As they say: you win some, you lose some. But we’d still count the night as a win. ■

A UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI NIGHT ON THE TOWN WITH BASEBALL AT MARK LIGHT FIELD, A BEER AT TIANIC, AND POST-GAME, A JALAPEÑO AND PEPPERONI PIZZA FROM MIAMI’S BEST

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Bites

Fine Dining Review

See page 46

PLUS QUICK BITES: EGGS

NEW PLACES TO EAT GABLES HAPPY HOUR

CELEBRITY CHEF MICHELLE BERNSTEIN’S “LOVE LETTER TO SPAIN”: SRA. MARTINEZ

Quick Bites: Eggs

Ah, the common egg. Once the least expensive way to get a good blast of protein. Now, of course, the price of eggs has gone through the roof of the chicken coop, and they are no longer taken for granted. With that in mind, this month we look at some local establishments that do an exceptional job at preparing these now precious orbs.

BACHOUR

Known foremost for its pastries, Bachour also serves a great breakfast, including a fine Eggs Benedict ($19). Creating the perfect poached egg is an art, with much less leeway than scrambled or fried. The ones at Bachour are perfectly timed at six minutes, neither too hard nor too slimy. Throw in a well sauced Hollandaise, great baked brioche, Canadian bacon, home fries, and a lightly dressed salad and you have your best meal of the day. 2020 Salzedo St. antoniobachour.com

THREEFOLD CAFE

Threefold Cafe’s Salmon Scramble ($17) mixes soft scrambled eggs into a savory, satisfying brunch meal. The smoked salmon brings a deep, salty flavor that’s balanced by a cool hit of crème fraîche. Red onions add a little bite, while the salmon roe gives it a pop of brine that stands out without overpowering. It’s all layered on sturdy toast that holds everything together. We added a side of bacon for $5 – not essential, but a little crunch never hurt anyone. 141 Giralda Ave. threefoldcafe.com

MACONDO

Our go-to breakfast sandwich will always be a bacon, egg, and cheese, but we love it at Macondo particularly, partly because you can get it served on a croissant, and partly because you can get the bacon chopped up into crunchy little bits, rather than served as a whole slice. For $13.50, you can enjoy one of the best BECs in town, and with scrambled eggs rather than fried, which makes it a little less messy –though also far less gooey. 205 Aragon Ave. macondocoffee.com

BULLA

Tortilla española is Spain’s humble crowd-pleaser – nothing fancy, unless you overthink it. Bulla Gastrobar’s version ($9.50) sticks to the essentials: caramelized onions folded into egg and thinly sliced potatoes, pan-fried until the outside sets and the inside stays creamy. It’s served as a thick wedge with a side of garlicky aioli. The texture is soft, not heavy, and the flavor holds up without needing extras. Next time, though, we’ll be tempted to add jamón. 2500 Ponce de Leon. bullagastrobar.com.

FAÇADE

For some spice in your breakfast life, try Façade’s Spicy Onion Toast ($18). Served on a thick slab of sourdough, the dish is first topped with caramelized onions, then with eggs folded to the measure of the bread. It’s then sprinkled with chili oil and red pepper for a nice kick. Though tough to slice through the bread’s hard crust, we can’t help coming back for more of this messy – but delicious – brunch favorite that has a little bit of everything. 271 Giralda Ave. @facademiami ■

The Heart of the Future: Robotic Cardiac Surgery at Baptist Health

As technology continues to transform medicine, robotic surgery is revolutionizing the world of heart care. More patients are now eligible for less-invasive heart surgery, thereby avoiding the extensive incisions, cracked ribs and long recovery times associated with traditional open-heart surgery. However, experts at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute emphasize that for the best outcomes, patients must seek a high-volume center with an experienced surgical team.

One of the foremost pioneers in robotic cardiac surgery is Makoto Hashimoto, M.D., Ph.D., a world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon who recently joined the Institute. Previously the director of the Center for Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery in Japan, Dr. Hashimoto has been at the forefront of robotic cardiac procedures for over a decade.

“While 2 million robotic surgeries were performed last year, very few were for cardiac conditions,” explains Dr. Hashimoto. “Robotic cardiac surgery requires skill and precision, which can only be honed by performing numerous procedures annually. That’s why it’s crucial to find an experienced team.”

Dr. Hashimoto’s team at the Institute has been using advanced robotic technology to perform a wide range of cardiac surgeries, including aortic valve replacement, mitral and tricuspid valve repair, coronary artery bypass surgery and more. These robotic surgeries offer significant benefits, such as smaller incisions, reduced pain, less blood loss and faster recovery times, over traditional procedures.

The Institute is expanding its capabilities to include robotic-assisted technologies, further enhancing patient outcomes. Robotic cardiac surgery uses a console to manipulate surgical

instruments with precision, translating the surgeon’s hand movements into real-time actions. This allows for better motion and enhanced visualization, ensuring the surgeon can navigate complex heart surgeries with unparalleled accuracy.

At Baptist Health, robotic surgery has already transformed the patient experience. A study of early robotic cardiac surgeries in Japan showed patients were discharged after just four days with nearly no complications – many now go home in just two days. Most patients return to work within two weeks, with 45 percent going back after only one week.

“In the future, we will explore telesurgery –where surgeons and patients are in different locations – bringing world-class care to underserved areas and even rural regions,” Dr. Hashimoto says.

Robotic cardiac surgery is not just about technology – it’s about providing patients with the best possible outcomes. By leveraging the latest advancements in robotics, Baptist Health is paving the way for a new era of heart care, offering patients faster recoveries, fewer complications and, ultimately, better quality of life.

For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/ RoboticHeartSurgery.

A Sitting with Señora

CELEBRITY CHEF MICHELLE BERNSTEIN’S “LOVE LETTER TO SPAIN”

BY KYLIE WANG

Twelve years ago, when Chef Michelle Bernstein closed the younger, louder version of Sra. Martinez in the Design District, she thought she’d never go back. “I never go backwards… ever,” the chef told Coral Gables Magazine. “I never like to think about how I could have or would have.… That’s not really the way I work.” But her loyal patrons remained undaunted in their requests to revisit the concept, and gradually she warmed to the idea – not bringing back the same restaurant per se, but putting a new spin on it. And it would be in Coral Gables, this time near to where Sra. Martinez’s Executive Chef Andrew Gilbert used to have his own British pub, The Seven Dials, on Ponce.

The result is a warm-toned space with funky mushroom-esque lights, wood paneling, and a rosy ambience. In a tribute to the music/entertainment venue formerly in the same space, the Open Stage, Sra. Martinez put a small stage near the back, big enough for a small band. “We wanted to have a piece of that back with us,” Bernstein says. “Dancing and music are a huge part of our lives.”

On the Friday evening we visited, a three-piece band played; the music was not overpowering, adding to the scene rather than stealing it. As they played lilting Spanish melodies, we curled up in a comfy booth underneath a low-hanging lamp and embraced the restaurant’s largely tapas-style menu, starting with a range of small plates.

First up were the mushroom croquetas, which Bernstein says are inspired by a youthful love of her mother’s cream of mushroom soup as well as a more business-oriented approach: “A lot of people don’t eat [certain] proteins, but everybody will eat a vegetable croqueta.” The croquetas combine different mushrooms with caramelized leeks, onion, garlic, tarragon, and parsley, and then come with the perfect dipping sauce. Citrus didn’t work, but when Bernstein

ABOVE: A SOPHISTICATED ATMOSPHERE CREATED WITH WARM TONES ACCENTED WITH DARK RED

ABOVE LEFT: MUSHROOM CROQUETAS WITH BLACKBERRIES

SRA. MARTINEZ 2325 GALIANO STREET

786.860.5980 SRAMARTINEZMIAMI.COM

found some blackberries at home, she found the winning combination: an unexpected yet welcome juxtaposition between a sweet marmalade and a savory vegetable base.

We also tried the leek au vinaigrette, a cold dish elevated by chopped hazelnuts for texture and a wonderful vinaigrette made from Pedro Jimenez vinegar (a Spanish aged sherry vinegar) and mustard. Bernstein acknowledges that leeks have never been popular on her menus – but she won’t stop trying. “I said to myself,

‘Michelle Bernstein, this is the restaurant where you’re going to sell cold leeks,’” she remembers. Crispy garlic and shallots round out the dish to give it added depth and flavor, while the leeks themselves are poached in white wine, bay leaves, and peppercorns.

Another cold appetizer is the excellent chicken liver paté. Served incongruously with warm beignets and a house-made strawberry marmalade, the dish is a collaborative effort between the restaurant’s two chefs. Bernstein has experience with chicken liver, but Gilbert remembers eating a delicious donut filled with it in England, which is how the beignets came to the dish. The result is overwhelmingly flavorful, with umami from the paté combining with sweetness from the marmalade in a soft pastry base.

Tapas are a Spanish staple, of course, and Bernstein says, “Sra. [is] really our love letter to Spain.” She also acknowledges that the original restaurant was “a little more Spanish,” but this iteration is more mature – and includes some incredible entrees.

We chose to share two of the most popular: the oxtail paella and a 21-day dry-aged New York strip steak. The paella was intensely flavorful, mixed with orange rind, habaneros, myriad spices, and

TOP LEFT: LEEK AU VINAIGRETTE WITH CHOPPED HAZELNUTS

BOTTOM LEFT: CHICKEN LIVER PATÉ WITH WARM BEIGNETS AND STRAWBERRY MARMALADE

TOP RIGHT: OXTAIL PAELLA WITH ORANGE RIND, HABANEROS, MYRIAD SPICES, AND BONE MARROW

BOTTOM RIGHT: NEW YORK STRIP STEAK FROM THE WOOD-BURNING OVEN

bone marrow, which is melted over it in Sra. Martinez’s wood-burning oven. The strip is also made in the wood-burning oven and then finished on the grill, topped with piquillo peppers and chimichurri on the side. (The ends and bones are all used as well, in the lunch menu’s burger and to make beef stock for other dishes). It was succulent, smoky, and had a hard barbecue-style crust that gave way to tenderness inside.

We finished the night with a coterie of desserts, all well-rounded and light – our preference after such a decadent meal. Our favorite was the Torreajas Bread Pudding, reminiscent of a classic chocolate brownie with ice cream. The perfect treat to end the night. Hopefully, the celebrity chef and James Beard Award winner is here to stay. ■

One Team, One Vision With You at the Center

Led by Lani Kahn Drody, The Lani Group is a luxury real estate team offering boutique-style service to home sellers and buyers across South Florida.

Anchored by Lani’s 30 years of experience, over $1 billion in sales, and her deep roots as a native Miami local, The Lani Group offers unmatched expertise in the greater Miami area.

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New Places

La Rosa Gastrobar

The first thing we noticed when we walked into La Rosa was how inviting the space was. Though it’s in a slightly less trafficked area of Miracle Mile on the west side of the first block, La Rosa is an eye-catcher. Outdoor seating spills onto a corner of sidewalk near a tinkling fountain, while inside the warm interior features a warmly lit bar and a huge rose on one wall. Rust-orange and forest-green chairs complement the space nicely with tropical-themed upholstery giving it an extra Miami-style vibe.

We found the menu to be similarly fun and Miami-esque, with three steaks served “on fire” tableside – quite literally. We tried the picanha ($35) and our only wish was that it was larger, though we enjoyed the blazing show. We also enjoyed the chipotle cauliflower tacos ($12), which were extremely flavorful, and the jamón and chorizo croquetas ($14), which came with a delicious sauce we also spread on our tacos. But our favorite dish of the night by far was the coconut flan ($10) for dessert. With just a hint of coconut, the dish was light and yet still sumptuous, slightly less rich than a usual flan.

Though La Rosa is primarily a Latin restaurant, we’ll also be back to try some of their pastas and burgers – and for more flan. –Kylie Wang

382 MIRACLE MILE

786.870.5466

LAROSAGASTROBAR.COM

Quore Gelato

In addition to their various classic gelatos, Quore Gelato, located right next to Copper 29 on Miracle Mile, offers a wide selection of alcohol-infused gelatos in either their medio ($12) or pinto ($22) sizes. Of course, we went with the alcoholic versions.

After much deliberation (and a handful of kindly offered samples), we landed on three flavors, all of which came in at 4.8 percent alc./vol. First up, we tried the cheesecake and rum, a combination of Santa Teresa 1796 and strawberry cheesecake. The richness of the cheesecake and the sweetness of the strawberry swirls smoothly, blended in with the rum, while the crunchy crumbles on top were a perfect finishing touch. We also had to give the salted caramel and whiskey a shot, which we were told is Quore’s most popular flavor. This mixture, which combines Macallan’s 12-year-aged single malt whiskey with Quore’s salted caramel gelato, lived up to the hype.

To finish off our unique ice cream / cocktail parlor experience, we went the sorbet route and tasted Quore’s strawberry and champagne – a strawberry sorbet infused with Veuve Clicquot Rose. Maybe it’s our fruity bias, but this flavor proved to be our favorite: light, refreshing, and easy on the tummy. We also tried a spoonful of the chocolate sorbet and Hennessy Cognac, as well as the piña colada and Zacapa 23 Rum; both delightful. We’ll be sure to include the dulce de leche with tequila, and the hazelnut with hazelnut liquor, on our next adventure to Quore, along with maybe an Uber ride home.

–Luke Chaney

210 MIRACLE MILE QUOREGELATO.COM

TOP: LA ROSA GASTROBAR INTERIOR FEATURES A WARMLY LIT BAR

RIGHT: OUR FAVORITE DISH OF THE NIGHT - THE COCONUT FLAN

LEFT: THE CHEESECAKE AND RUM ALCOHOL-INFUSED

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When you document your legacy gift, a 10% matching gift will be activated—amplifying your impact at no cost to you. That means your future gift helps kids today and for generations to come.

Whether your legacy is big or small, it matters. And there’s never been a better time to make it count.

BITES / NEW PLACES

Dōjō

When Chef Pablo Zitzmann initially opened the now-famous Zitz Sum, it was just a pop-up. But the chef has since proved himself not only worthy of that now-permanent structure, but of another in Coral Gables. His latest creation is Dojo, an izakaya restaurant on Giralda Plaza that encourages its patrons to start with some chilled sake. We did just that, ordering a nice carafe of the Makihata junmai sake for $32 to go along with our starters. With warm lighting, a blend of minimalistic Japanese and Mediterranean inspired décor, and an intriguing playlist featuring grungy favorites like Nirvana’s “The Man Who Sold The World,” we dug in.

The Karaage ($16) was an immediate favorite: mochiko fried chicken oysters (that refers to the rear end of the chicken – not actual oysters) served with kosho ranch, these were reminiscent of popcorn chicken bites, though a bit spicier and more flavorful. We also fell in love with the Okonomiyaki cabbage pancake ($22) served with saporous smoky bacon bits, pickled ginger, dried seaweed (nori), and kewpie, a Japanese mayonnaise. The dish was tangy and bold, great for sharing with small pieces we easily picked up.

Of course, we also had to try Dojo’s best protein-packed dish: a Niman Ranch 14-ounce Denver steak cooked on a teppanyaki grill and served with a range of sides and dipping sauces. Full to the bursting with flavor, we ordered ours medium rare at our server’s recommendation and thoroughly enjoyed the Asian flavors paired with a premium, juicy cut of meat. Zitzmann has done it again! –Kylie Wang

148 GIRALDA AVE.

305.849.3456

DOJOMIAMI.COM

A Collaborative Effort

COCKTAILS AND KOREAN CHICKEN AT THE THESIS HOTEL

BY KYLIE WANG

Amore aptly named restaurant may exist elsewhere in Coral Gables, but we think The Collab might take the prize. The food is quite literally collaborative here, with Chef Nico Mazier’s New American menu drawing from his experience in Asian cuisine and combining Mediterranean, Italian, and other influences.

We came for a recent Wednesday happy hour in the elegant, warmly lit space at the THesis Hotel, to have both a bite and a beverage at the bar. Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and includes six small dishes under $13 and two-for-one drinks.

We tried the Sacrebleu and the Island Girl for our drinks, both gin-based and refreshing. The Sacrebleu uses Tempt gin and grapefruit juice for a citrus base, balanced by a little kick from a habanero tincture. The Island Girl, meanwhile, seems more apt for a lounge chair by the beach, with lychee, mango, and coconut syrup, and a coating of mango jelly around the rim for extra sweetness.

We paired both with the Crispy Korean Chicken ($12), served with a creamy feta and agrodolce, an Italian sweet-and-sour sauce. We liked it so much we ordered a second helping along with the Tartare de Boeuf ($12), one of Mazier’s best dishes: beef tartare on sourdough toast with red onion jam, parmesan cheese, and black garlic aioli. The collab between the jam and aioli is the secret here – you could put it on anything and instantly elevate the dish. Forgive us if you catch us licking the plate. ■

TOP: CRISPY KOREAN CHICKEN ABOVE: TARTARE DE BOEUF

People

FEATURING:

JONATHAN MARIN TUANA YAZICI ANDRÉS CAMILO CONCHA

JONATHAN MARIN, FOUNDER, THE WANDERLUST CANDLE

Born and raised in Miami and still lives here, Jonathan Marin has always had a passion for exploring new places. Thirteen years ago, he started his travel agency, Marin Luxury Travel, helping book luxury vacations for the ultra-wealthy. But Marin is also a creative, and he wanted to make something special for his clients. Enter The Wanderlust Candle, his luxury candle brand. With scents inspired by vacation destinations like Bora Bora, St. Bart’s, Paris, and Capri, The Wanderlust Candle has grown to become its own brand – though Marin still gives them out to his travel agency clients as well. Every candle is clean-burning, non-toxic, and vegan –made without paraffin (a byproduct of petroleum refining) or carcinogens, and hand-poured by Marin in small batches.

Jonathan Marin

FOUNDER, THE WANDERLUST CANDLE

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

“

I JUST WANTED TO CREATE A BRAND THAT WAS GOING TO HELP PEOPLE AVOID BRINGING TOXINS INTO THEIR HOMES ...”

The young entrepreneur recently launched a new “Miami” candle featuring scents of orange, amber, palm, and sea salt. It comes in a size small for $20 or large for $42. “It’s something our clients have been asking for for quite some time,” Marin says. “We can’t keep it on our shelves.” He also plans to release three new scents over the summer to coincide with the summer travel season. All are available on his website, at farmer’s markets around Coral Gables, and on the Little Local retail app.

WHAT HE SAYS

“We wanted to stay away from toxins, paraffin, anything that was not natural,” says Marin, “so our candles are priced at a higher price point because we’re using all-natural ingredients. We design each one with coconut apricot wax, for example, and without phthalates” – chemicals used often in fragrances that are linked to health issues. “I just wanted to create a brand that was going to help people avoid bringing toxins into their homes, which was the whole concept behind The Wanderlust Candle.” ■

LAUNCHING JUNE5FOR6WEEKS

FROM MARRAKESH TO MIAMI

THIS ARTISANAL POP - UP ELEVATES DESIGNER DREAMS

Dreaming of drenching your home in the vivid patterns, rich textiles and chic, artisanal crafts that dot Morocco’s villas and riads? You don’t need to jet-set to the souks of Marrakesh! Starting June 5, 2025, South Florida interior designers and discerning homeowners will have exclusive access to Atelier Nomads, a home decor pop-up in Coral Gables.

The boutique is a collaboration between Maryam Montague, a Moroccan resident, hotelier, designer and author, and Mindy McIlroy, a Miami resident and president of Terranova, a commercial real estate company based in Miami Beach. The two women met when McIlroy joined one of Montague’s insider shopping excursions in Marrakesh. “I wanted to bring everything home!” McIlroy says about the experience. “What also stood out to me was that we didn’t have anything like this in Miami.”

The duo decided to collaborate on a pop-up boutique featuring one-of-a-kind, small-batch items

with a focus on the people and stories behind the designs. Pieces include hand-knotted rugs, handembroidered chairs, handcrafted furniture, pottery, sculptures and baskets, handblown glassware, bespoke backgammon games, and a range of candles and home fragrances housed in covetable vessels.

“Morocco already has a mystical connotation to people,” says Montague. “You can’t always hop on a plane across the ocean, so this is an opportunity for it to come to you!”

Montague and McIlroy will be on hand to mingle with attendees, and buyers can learn about where their purchased items are from, what they’re made of, and how long they took to make.

Accessories start at $25, while big-ticket items such as rugs range from $6,000 to $12,000, depending on size. Once it sells out, Atelier Nomads will go dark until the next highly anticipated shopping event, with a fresh new pop-up each quarter.

Twenty-four-year-old University of Miami law student Tuana Yazici’s interest in law was formed partly when she was 19. That was when Yazici, an Istanbul native who came to Florida when she was nine, worked with the mayor of Istanbul to pass a law that banned horse-drawn carriages on the Princes’ Islands, ensuring the horses’ safety. Layered onto her love for law is her fascination with space exploration. In 2020, she joined the International Institute of Space Law, where she authored “Legal Aspects of AI in Space,” a 400-page manuscript that includes case studies on genetics, lethal autonomous weapons, space traffic management, and air and maritime law, amongst other topics. Yazici has continued to reach new heights since then. In 2023, she founded two companies dedicated to space and AI technologies, as well as AeroAI Global Solutions, a nonprofit that utilizes space technologies and AI for humanitarian purposes. One of its initiatives is called AeroAI Guardian, which uses space-based technology to monitor wildlife trafficking hot spots to combat illegal poaching.

“THE SUPPORT AND FLEXIBILITY HERE HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN ALLOWING ME TO ACHIEVE MY GOALS.”

Tuana Yazici

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI LAW STUDENT AND FOUNDER OF AEROAI GLOBAL SOLUTIONS, AEROAI DESIGNLAB, AND AEROAI VOYAGES

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Yazici’s “Legal Aspects of AI in Space” team presented its findings in October 2024 at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan. Yazici plans to share her results with the United Nations Legal Subcommittee as well, which is scheduled to meet in Vienna from May 5 to 16. She’s also been invited to speak at the European Space Operations Centre and the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs.

WHAT SHE SAYS

“The supportive environment at Miami Law has provided me with a solid foundation to pursue my goals and drive meaningful impact,” says Yazici. “After my first year of law school, I was able to start my companies and nonprofit and manage the balance between academics, work, research, and travel. The support and flexibility here have been instrumental in allowing me to achieve my goals.” – Luke Chaney ■

Andrés Camilo Concha is rewriting what it means to lead his generation. The son of Colombian and Puerto Rican immigrants, Concha grew up watching his mother’s unwavering determination to create a better life for their family. At fifteen-years-old, he was swimming at the national level and training with Olympians until an injury ended his athletic career. Forced to pivot, the young entrepreneur shifted his focus to academics and leadership. His persistence paid off, though not without some adversity. Initially rejected by the University of Miami, Concha didn’t take no for an answer. He persistently emailed the admissions office until, finally, the university accepted him as a last-minute admission. “I told them, ‘Bet on me, and I’ll change things,’” he says. Today, Concha is the founder of the Leaders of Tomorrow Initiative (LTI), a forward-thinking organization bringing together university students and global leaders to create opportunities that shape the future.

Andrés Camilo Concha

FOUNDER, LEADERS OF TOMORROW INITIATIVE (LTI)

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

“WHEN I STARTED LTI, I WANTED TO CHALLENGE THE IDEA THAT GEN Z IS LAZY OR UNINSPIRED....”

Concha has pushed LTI to quickly evolve into a powerhouse network of driven, high-achieving young adults. It recently started a speaker series featuring top executives from WhatsApp, Bose, IBM, and Blackstone, and Concha has been expanding its programming. Along with private mixers and workshops, the organization plans to launch public networking events this year.

WHAT HE SAYS

“When I started LTI, I wanted to challenge the idea that Gen Z is lazy or uninspired,” Concha says. “I’ve met some of the brightest minds in my generation – they’re disciplined, creative, and ambitious. They just needed a place to connect and thrive.” As for his upbringing, “My mom worked tirelessly to provide for me,” he says. “She taught me that if you’re going to do something, do it with excellence.” – Amanda Martell ■

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Three

Private Collections

A LOOK AT SOME FAVORITE CANVASSES OF THREE GABLES ART COLLECTORS

BY J.P. FABER / PHOTOS BY RODOLFO BENITEZ

Coral Gables has always been home to those who appreciate art. It was once the art gallery capital of Florida, and remains the home of numerous private collections, many of them world-class. While the scores of galleries once located here have melted away under high rental costs, there remain a handful of stalwarts. Chief among them is Cernuda Arte, which specializes in Cuban art, and the Americas Collection, which casts a wider net into Central and South American countries for the artists they represent. Every so often Coral Gables Magazine takes a look at some of the private collections in the city. Because Coral Gables is home to so many Cuban Americans, the collections here tend to skew toward Cuban art. There are exceptions, but this year’s look into the private homes of citizen art lovers uncovered three collections that were predominantly comprised of Cuban art. Fortunately, there is no lack of talent among these prolific painters.

The Cuban Masters

THE COLLECTOR: DR. DE LA VEGA AND FIANCÉE JOSIE TEZANOS

Dr. Luis de la Vega’s predilection for Cuban art stems, in part, from his heritage. He is a direct descendant of one of the leaders of the successful rebellion against the British occupation of Cuba in 1762. Today, de la Vega is a retired linguist (he holds a PhD in linguistics) who started collecting in earnest about 15 years ago. Since then, he has collected some of the great Cuban masters, including Wifredo Lam, Carlos Enríquez, Victor Manuel, Amelia Peláez, René Portocarrero, and more.

His paintings adorn the walls of his historic 1924 home on the Granada Golf Course. He arrived from Cuba in 1960, fleeing the revolution, but has been back to Cuba since then to research his family lineage. His favorite painting in the collection is a 1941 canvas by Amelia Peláez entitled “Naturaleza Muerta con Frutas” – or “Still Life with Fruits.”

“It has his all the features of the Cuban home,” says de la Vega, “the ironwork, the arches, the columns, the fruits, the light, the sky – it has everything.”

“PÁJAROS” BY MARIANO RODRÍGUEZ 1958

“PELEA DE GALLOS” BY CARLOS ENRÍQUEZ 1947

“RETRATO DE FLORA” BY RENÉ PORTOCARRERO 1964

“NATURALEZA MUERTA CON FRUTAS” BY AMELIA PELÁEZ 1941

“FEMME CHEVAL” BY WIFREDO LAM 1957

“MORENA CON PÁJARO” BY CUNDO BERMÚDEZ 1954

Every Picture Tells a Story

THE COLLECTORS: SERGIO & MARIA GONZALEZ-ARIAS

Dr. Sergio and Maria Gonzalez-Arias live in a 1925 house in the historic Italian Village. Even with high ceilings, the couple has managed to fill almost every surface with scores of paintings. “The vast majority of all our pieces are local artists in Miami, and mostly Cuban Americans,” says Dr. Gonzalez-Arias, a retired brain surgeon. “We are not strategic collectors in terms of investment. We’re not collectors for any future [sale]. We buy what we like and that is what we have done for some 30-odd years.”

For the couple, knowing the artists mean there are stories behind most of the paintings, like Arturo Rodriguez’s depiction of fleeing Cuba by boat, or the orphaned childhood of Demi, entitled “The Last Supper.” One of the few paintings by a non-Cuban artist in their collection is “Duendes y Espantapájaros” (“Goblins and Scarecrows”) by Guatemalan Elmar Rojas. The images are taken from Guatemalan mythology, where fire-spewing horses called Toro Fuegos protected drunkards.

“UNTITLED” BY HUMBERTO CALZADA, CUBAN-AMERICAN

“HER FOOTPRINT ON MY HEART” BY PAUL SIERRA, CUBAN 1991

“DUENDES Y ESPANTAPÁJAROS”

BY ELMAR ROJAS, GUATEMALAN

“THE LAST SUPPER” BY DEMI, CUBAN 1992

“MADHOUSE” BY ARTURO RODRIGUEZ, CUBAN 1980

“UNTITLED” BY ARTURO RODRIGUEZ, CUBAN 1995

Tere’s Take

THE COLLECTOR:

TERE SHELTON BERNACE

For Tere Shelton Bernace, real estate broker and owner of Shelton and Stewart Realtors LLC, collecting art has always been a matter of connecting to her heart – and where she happens to be travelling. Most of the paintings in her family home on Alhambra Circle are by Cubans, but she also has works by other Latin American artists. One of her first acquisitions was in the mid 1990s: the “Tree of Life” by Chilean artist Carlos Catasse, which she bought in Ecuador while travelling there as a banker. She buys a given work, she says, because, “it just speaks to me.” One artist that did was Ruben Torres Llorca, a Cuban-American who lives in Coral Gables. Having collected one of the earlier styles he’s known for (2009’s “Too Much Information”), she also bought a more recent depiction of a floral arrangement. “I like this one because it’s kind of his take on a Dutch still life,” she says. Talk about connecting – Shelton Bernace majored in the history of art in college, where she wrote her senior paper comparing traditional Dutch vanitas to Photorealism.

(RIGHT) TERE WITH PAINTING BY CARLOS CATASSE, CHILEAN “LIGNUM VITAE TREE OF LIFE” 2000

“EL MALECÓN” BY LUIS ENRIQUE CAMEJO, CUBAN 2009

“LOBO, YO A TI TE RECUERDO” BY CARLOS QUINTANA, CUBAN 2008

CUBAN

MUCH INFORMATION” BY RUBEN TORRES LLORCA CUBAN

ES

“EN SILENCIO ESTOY AQUI” BY MIGUEL FLORIDO

CUBAN

“STUDY” MIXED MEDIA COLLAGE ON COLD PRESSED PAPER BY VICTOR ALEJANDRO FERNANDEZ

“TOO

“ESTA

TU OBRA” BY RUBÉN TORRES LLORCA

The Suite Life of Seniors

The art of extending a happy life through socializing

BY KATELIN STECZ

Six months ago, Rosalind “Happy” Arkin never thought she’d find herself in a senior living community. The idea conjured up images of fluorescent lights, endless bingo games, and preheated meals, none of which appealed to her. But with some encouragement (and a little pressure) from her children, she agreed to check out Gables Grand Living. She signed up for a three-month trial period which the community offers potential residents. It didn’t take long, though – just a week or two – before she knew she was staying.

Looking over at her friend Linda Moser, Arkin smiles. A passerby might think the two had known each other for decades, given their easy conversation, inside jokes, and

the way they shower each other with compliments. But they became fast friends only in the last few months, bonding over their love for reading. When asked what they love most about Grand Living, they look at each other and say, in unison, “the people,” as if no further explanation is needed.

For Arkin and Moser, it’s all about being social. “You never eat alone here. There’s always someone to sit with who wants to have dinner with you,” says Arkin. Moser adds, “I’m not even sure you could eat alone if you wanted to.”

Senior living communities often come with stereotypes that don’t quite capture the full picture. Places like Grand Living offer something intangible: a true sense of com-

OPPOSITE PAGE: LINDA MOSER (LEFT) AND ROSALIND ARKIN (RIGHT) AT GRAND LIVING. BOTH SAY WHAT THEY LOVE MOST ABOUT GRAND LIVING IS “THE PEOPLE.”

“I NEVER DREAMED I’D BE GETTING SO MUCH PLEASURE IN MY SENIOR YEARS… I FEEL SMARTER NOW THAN I WAS SEVEN YEARS AGO...”

munity and companionship. Moser compares it to living in a college dorm, where friends are always nearby and there’s never a shortage of things to do. And the added benefit? Studies show that staying socially active helps slow cognitive decline, making connection not just a comfort but a vital part of healthy aging.

SOCIALIZATION BACKED BY SCIENCE

Socialization isn’t just about companionship and warm, fuzzy feelings – it plays a critical role in cognitive health. Research shows that staying socially engaged can help support brain function as we age. An observational study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association found that greater social interaction meant a 38 percent reduction in dementia risk.

“Social engagement keeps your brain busy,” says Joyce Gomes-Osman, PT, PhD, and founder of PT for Mental Sharpness. “The number and quality of social connections are associated with larger brain volume,

“SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT KEEPS YOUR BRAIN BUSY...”

particularly in the cerebral cortex – the area linked to memory. Additionally, social support in older adults is connected to brain networks responsible for executive functioning, which includes problem-solving, emotional regulation, and memory retention.”

Katalina Fernández McInerney, PhD, assistant professor of neurology at the University of Miami, agrees. “Social activity is an incredible preventative measure for brain health, yet we don’t talk about it enough. When we interact, we’re cognitively challenged. We have to pay attention, process what’s being said, think quickly, and respond, all of which help keep our brains sharp.”

For some seniors, the effects of more social interaction are life-changing. Hal Silberman, a 99-year-old resident at The Palace, says he feels years younger since he first

JOYCE GOMES-OSMAN, PT, PHD, (LEFT) FOUNDER OF PT FOR MENTAL SHARPNESS

HAL SILBERMAN, A 99-YEAR-OLD RESIDENT AT THE PALACE, WITH MARIE ALBRIGHT (RIGHT)

moved in. “I never dreamed I’d be getting so much pleasure in my senior years… I feel smarter now than I was seven years ago just by virtue of being here every day and being stimulated,” he says. His friend and fellow resident Marie Albright nods in agreement and interjects, saying she’s rediscovered her passion for life since moving to The Palace. “There are so many stories here, people from all around the world. Hearing their experiences and sharing my own, it’s just amazing. That’s what we’re all here for.”

Josh Cabrera, executive director of The Palace, sees these transformations firsthand. “Once a resident settles in and starts getting comfortable, you notice a real difference, not just in their attitude, but in their appearance. It’s like they start to blossom and live life again.”

But social interaction alone isn’t the only key to staying mentally sharp. Having a sense of purpose, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or engaging in meaningful activities, further strengthens cognitive resilience.

LEFT: DAILY HAPPY HOUR AT BELMONT VILLAGE IS A CHANCE FOR RESIDENTS TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS

BELOW: BELMONT RESIDENTS PLAYING RUMMIKUB, WHICH BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER AND SHARPENS THE MIND

SOCIALIZATION WITH A PURPOSE

While socialization is essential for brain health, research suggests that social engagement with a sense of purpose is even more powerful. In an article co-authored by Gomes-Osman and Dr. Alvaro Pascual-Leon, professor of neurology at Harvard, two key principles that promote brain health and longevity stand out: “Brain Health Requires a Brain that Pursues Personally Meaningful Goals” and “Brain Health Requires a Social Brain Committed to the Service of Others.” These principles highlight that, while staying socially engaged is beneficial, when that engagement is tied to a meaningful pursuit or purpose, it becomes an even stronger safeguard against cognitive decline.

Gomes-Osman emphasizes the benefits of volunteering. “Scientifically speaking, volunteering is a very, very powerful brain health agent, and it’s been shown to improve mental and physical health, increase life satisfaction and happiness, decrease mortality, and roll back some cognitive impairments as well.”

Many senior living communities integrate volunteer programs into their activities, recognizing the profound impact they have on residents’ well-being. At The Contemporary,

residents participate in outreach programs, including working with Kristi House, an organization dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse, and by distributing food to the homeless. “It makes the residents feel good to know that they still have a purpose,” says Zabrina Valdes, lifestyle enrichment director.

Beyond formal volunteering, many senior communities foster environments where residents can take the lead in organizing activities and sharing their expertise. At The Palace, Silberman, a retired doctor, has embraced his self-appointed role as educational director, hosting medical talks, encouraging residents to share insights from their careers, teaching chair aerobics, and writing a bi-monthly newsletter. Similarly, Moser, who taught singing for over 30 years, now leads a class called Sing for the Health of It. Communities like The Contemporary, Belmont Village, and Sunrise Senior Living also prioritize resident-led activities, ensuring individuals can stay engaged in ways that reflect their passions and interests.

For many seniors, integrating into a new community can feel daunting. But the rewards – deep social connections, a renewed

sense of purpose, and meaningful engagement – are well worth it. The key is finding the right community and taking the first steps toward involvement.

INTEGRATING INTO THE COMMUNITY

“One of my biggest worries when I was considering moving here was, ‘Who will I sit with in the dining room? What if I walk in and there’s no one to eat with?’” says Arkin. She isn’t alone in these concerns. Many senior living directors note that adjusting to a new community takes time, and feelings of uncertainty are common even after moving in. Feeling welcomed is crucial because, as neurology professor McInerney points out, loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone. “Loneliness is interesting, right? A lot of people think of it as simply lacking social interaction, but it’s actually more of a psychological construct. You can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely,” she explains.

To help residents build connections and truly benefit from socialization, senior communities take multiple approaches. For example, Maryann Chapman, activities and volunteer coordinator at Sunrise Senior

Living, says the community relies heavily on motivational interviews to understand residents’ interests and tailor programs accordingly. “We assess each resident, what they like, what they don’t like, and communicate with family members to get a full picture of what they would enjoy doing again,” she says. At The Palace, staff use a Customer Relationship Management program to track resident interests, allowing staff to introduce individuals with common hobbies.

McInerney emphasizes that these programs are crucial, especially for introverts. “It’s about baby steps. Someone might be surrounded by people in assisted living yet still feel alone. Understanding their interests helps integrate them into the community.”

In some communities, natural camaraderie develops on its own. With around 80 residents, The Contemporary fosters a close-knit atmosphere where introductions happen organically. “Since it’s so small, everyone knows each other and checks in on one another,” says Valdes. “When a new

SENIORS FROM THE CONTEPORARY VOLUNTEERING AT THE LOCAL CHURCH, GIVINGTHEM MEANINGFUL GOALS IN THE SERVICE OF OTHERS

resident arrives, there’s already someone eager to meet them and have dinner together.” Sunrise’s Chapman echoes this sentiment, noting that the smaller population allows for deeper connections.

Integration is key, but so is offering a variety of activities that cater to different personalities. Anna Morena-Nava, activity programs coordinator at Belmont Village, stresses the importance of social engagement in all forms. “Not everyone is extroverted, and that’s okay. You can’t force participation, but we make sure there are opportunities for everyone to engage in their own way,” she says. For example, she offers an anecdote about two residents who have formed a quiet but meaningful friendship over puzzles. “They don’t need to talk much while working on a puzzle, but they do it together. They share a space, they’re engaged, and at the end, they’ve created something beautiful – without needing to say a word.”

THE LONELINESS EPIDEMIC

In 2018, the United Kingdom established a Ministry of Loneliness, recognizing social isolation as a pressing public health issue. Germany and Japan soon followed suit, and in May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy officially declared loneliness and social isolation a public health epidemic.

As people age, they often face life-altering events such as declining health or the loss of a spouse – circumstances that can leave them isolated and without necessary social interaction. “I didn’t realize how much of a hermit I had become or how alone I was,” says Moser, reflecting on how she withdrew following her husband’s passing.

At The Contemporary, residents Olga Piedra, Rossy Fontova, and Nancy Muxo all lost their husbands before moving in, but found comfort in one another. “When I first came in, it was difficult for me,” says Muxo. Piedra and Fontova shared similar experiences, and together, they found solace in their mutual understanding.

Loneliness isn’t just a feeling. It has significant health consequences, particularly for seniors. “If you test the blood of people experiencing chronic loneliness, you’ll see increased inflammatory markers,” says expert Gomes-Osman. “They experience more stress, and this is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, dementia, and conditions like Parkinson’s disease.” According to the National Institute on Aging, the health risks of prolonged isolation are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Belmont’s Morena-Nava believes that a strong sense of community can help slow

“WHEN

I FIRST CAME IN, IT WAS DIFFICULT FOR ME ...”

RESIDENT

cognitive decline and combat loneliness. “Having something to look forward to makes all the difference,” she says. “Whether it’s an activity, a friend to have lunch with, a game in the afternoon, or a small gathering, that sense of anticipation keeps people going.”

“We as human beings are designed to be social beings,” says Jose Rego, life enrichment manager at Sunrise Senior Living. “Connection is at the core of who we are. No one is an island. Even though as we age, we slow down, and the pace of our lives may change, our need for connection remains.”

For seniors, being part of a community is more than just a living arrangement – it’s a powerful tool in maintaining mental and physical well-being. A strong support system not only helps stave off the effects of dementia and cognitive decline but also provides something even more essential: a sense of belonging. ■

CONTEMPORARY

NANCY MUXO (RIGHT) SHARING HER EXPERIENCES WITH HER NEW FRIENDS, OLGA PIEDRA, (LEFT) AND ROSSY FONTOVA (MIDDLE)

STATES

A PLAN IN 1916 FOR A PAN AMERICAN UNIVERSITY IN

FORMER UNITED

SECRETARY OF STATE WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN, ONE OF GEORGE MERRICK’S ALLIES, CONCEIVED

MIAMI

The U Turns 100

THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI: A CENTURY OF HIGHER ED IN CORAL GABLES

BY LUKE CHANEY

George Merrick’s idea for the City of Coral Gables started long before – perhaps even decades before – the city’s incorporation in 1925. In the years leading up to that seminal event, Merrick was constantly honing his concepts for the “City Beautiful” – a vision that always included a university that would educate and elevate the community. Merrick wanted a university that would not only represent Greater Miami and the state of Florida but would also have an international connection to Latin America. Even when bankruptcy threatened his real estate empire, he continued to maintain his dream for the future University of Miami (UM).

CONSTRUCTION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI BEGAN IN JANUARY 1926

THE GENESIS

The importance of education was ingrained in Merrick long before he thought of starting a university. With a Yale-educated Congregational minister for a father and a college-educated artist mother, schooling was a core value in the Merrick household; so much so that in 1900, George’s mother Althea opened a school (named “Guavonia” for the guava trees that had made the family’s fortune) on the family farm. George, who was 13 when his father Solomon moved the family to recently founded Miami in 1899, did not attend his mother’s school or receive any more formal education until he attended Rollins College in his early 20s. Despite this, the joy of learning was implanted into him from an early age, when he would teach himself philosophy by reading books during his long trips into town to sell produce.

The early days of Coral Gables showed just how much Merrick prioritized education. The city’s elementary school opened in October 1921, and in an ad from December of that same year, Merrick proclaimed that “Miami should and can have… a university” and that “the ideal place for it is at Coral Gables.”

Former United States Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan (also one of Merrick’s biggest promoters) expressed his interest in building an institution of higher learning in Miami at a meeting of the North Miami Improvement Association in February 1916. His idea was to start a training school for students from the Americas, then expand it to include colleges for liberal arts and agricultural studies.

Plans for Bryan’s proposed Pan-American University came together quickly but then evaporated. He was on the school’s first Board of Regents, along with his daughter Ruth Owen, but died before he was able to bring the university he envisioned to life. “The Ibis,” the University of Miami’s yearbook, dedicated their 1929 edition to him: “[For] William Jennings Bryan, who conceived the plan for a Pan American University in Miami, but who never lived to see his dream realized.”

“MIAMI SHOULD AND CAN HAVE... A UNIVERSITY... THE IDEAL PLACE FOR IT IS AT CORAL GABLES.”

WITH THESE WORDS IN 1921, GEORGE MERRICK (ABOVE) SHOWED HOW IMPORTANT EDUCATION WAS TO HIM. SHORTLY AFTER, HE OFFERED 160 ACRES OF LAND AND $5 MILLION TO THE NEWLY FORMED BOARD OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

The idea for a South Florida-based university picked up steam in 1924 when the Miami Herald printed several letters signed by William E. Walsh, the municipal judge of Miami Beach, that supported the proposal of an outdoor university in Miami. Walsh also organized the school’s founding Board of Regents, which applied for and received a charter for the University of Miami on April 8, 1925. Three weeks later, on April 29, the City of Coral Gables was incorporated.

The first task of the newly formed Board of Regents was to decide where in Miami their university would be located. They narrowed it down to four sites, but Merrick’s offer of 160 acres of land and $5 million, which was to be matched with $5 million from other sources, proved irresistible. On May 25, 1925, Frederic Zeigan, the secretary of the Board of Regents, wrote to Merrick to let him know that Coral Gables had been selected as the location for the university.

THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SHORTLY AFTER COMPLETION IN 1926

THE “CARDBOARD COLLEGE”

Construction of the University of Miami began in January 1926, the same month the Biltmore Hotel opened; the first cornerstone of the Merrick Administration Building was laid on Feb. 4. The triumph of these early achievements quickly dissipated however, as financial problems plagued the area with the collapse of the South Florida Land Boom. Construction of the Merrick Building was halted in July, forcing the regents to instead shift their attention to completing the half-finished Anastasia Hotel. When the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 swept through South Florida that September, calls to delay the opening of the new school grew even louder. Many believed that it would never open.

As intense as the doubters of the university’s future were during this time, a strong-willed, optimistic group of supporters remained unfazed. “The judgement of the bankers, the cold-headed business heads of the community, counseled for waiting,” Merrick later wrote. “But that little group of citizens decided to open the university, and it was opened! They decided that it was essential because they thought the area right then needed inspiration!”

Somehow, on Oct. 15, 1926, the University of Miami opened on schedule. Led by Bowman F. Ashe, UM’s first president, the school was headquartered at the Anastasia Hotel, now re-dubbed the Anastasia Building. Time and budget constraints forced

architects to lay out only the building’s first two floors, and to use thin partitions to divide the small spaces of this compact, makeshift school. Originally supposed to be temporary, the “Cardboard College,” as UM was nicknamed, was stationed at the Anastasia Building for the next 20 years.

Ashe, who served as UM’s president until his death in 1952, was a passionate and resilient leader. He navigated the school through bankruptcy in 1932 and then a world war, all within its first 20 years of existence. But through these early obstacles emerged promise for the long-term future of the university.

In the 1940s, UM created several of its defining schools, notably a Marine Laboratory (now the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science) and a School of Engineering. The School of Medicine followed shortly in 1952. The student body also grew exponentially. During its inaugural year in 1926, the university had 561 students registered; that number ballooned to more than 10,000 by 1948.

The Merrick Building was finally completed in 1949, marking one of the last and greatest achievements of Ashe’s presidency and giving UM a psychological boost for the transitional years that followed.

“SUN-TAN U” AND SOCIAL CHANGE

Despite advancements that furthered its prestige, UM developed a reputation for putting education second and partying first. In a 1949 article by the Saturday Evening Post, the university’s tropical climate and country club-like atmosphere were highlighted, garnering it the nickname “Sun-tan U.”

In the decades that followed, UM worked tirelessly to rid itself of this impression of a school that didn’t prioritize academics. To accomplish this, the university actually decreased its student body

BOWMAN F. ASHE (LEFT), UM’S FIRST PRESIDENT, SERVED FROM 1926 UNTIL HIS DEATH IN 1952. THE YEAR OF 1926 SAW THE COLLAPSE OF THE SOUTH FLORIDA LAND BOOM, FOLLOWED BY A MAJOR HURRICANE LATER THAT SAME YEAR (SEE PHOTO AT BOTTOM)

from 12,000 to 8,500 students during Edward T. Foote II’s presidency from 1981 to 2001. “He cut the number of students going to UM so that the quality of students would be better,” says UM Senior Vice President Patricia A. Whitely, who began working at the university under Foote in 1982.

UM was the first Florida university, public or private, to desegregate, following a January 1961 vote by the Board of Trustees. Black students attended classes on the main campus for the first time in the university’s history that summer. This led to the formation of United Black Students (UBS), led in 1967 by its first president, Harold Long. The new group wanted to see improvements for Black students beyond integration. UBS presented proposals to then-university president Henry King Stanford which included the inclusion of African American studies in the school’s curriculum. Following an on-campus protest against UM’s slow progress on the

“HE CUT THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS GOING TO UM SO THAT THE QUALITY OF STUDENTS WOULD BE BETTER,...”

proposals – which prompted the arrest of 14 Black students on May 14, 1968 – change began to happen more swiftly. More scholarships for minority students were approved, and a course that taught Black history and invited Black lecturers was created.

RISE OF “THE U”

UM’s split-U logo, as it is popularly known today, was developed by publicist Julian Cole and graphic artist Bill Bodenhamer after the university’s Athletic Federation pushed for a new, distinctive logo for the school in 1973. In the decade that followed, UM’s sports programs, competing nationally as the “Hurricanes” since 1927, began to gain serious traction, starting in 1982 with the baseball team’s first national championship. But it wasn’t until the football team won its first national championship in 1983 that the Hurricanes altered the landscape of college sports. From 1983 to 2001, UM’s football team won five national championships – the most of any college program during that span.

“I don’t think anybody could have foreseen [that] in 1983, when we won our first national championship against Nebraska in the Orange Bowl,” Whitely says. “I don’t think we could have said,

PATRICIA A. WHITELY, UM SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, WHO BEGAN WORKING AT THE UNIVERSITY IN 1982, REFERRING TO UM PRESIDENT EDWARD T. FOOTE II IN PUTTING EDUCATION FIRST AND NOT POOL PARTIES

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‘Oh, and by the way, we’re going to win four more national championships. And I actually think that the events of those 18 years, 1983 to 2001… really vaulted the campus, provided an identity that we didn’t have before, and has played a pivotal role in some of our success over the last 40 years.”

It’s not just the number of championships University of Miami won during this period that people remember, but also how it won them. With a roster heavily tied to South Florida’s tri-county region of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach, the Hurricanes played with a unique swagger that fans, as well as opponents, were drawn to. Players were seen as celebrities far beyond the confines of Coral Gables.

“It wasn’t just on our campus…. We owned Miami,” says Kelvin Harris, who won three national championships as an offensive lineman at UM from 1987 to 1991. “They didn’t believe they could lose, and they worked extremely hard.”

Following the athletic noteriety of the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s came an important period of fundraising and academic success for UM. Under the leadership of Donna E. Shalala, the former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and the only female president to serve at UM, the university raised $3 billion through its two “Momentum” campaigns. Miami also soared up the U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Colleges ranking, placing in the top 50 during Shalala’s last six years as president. When she began her presidential tenure in 2001, UM was slotted at No. 67.

In the quest to grow its reputation as a respected research institution, UM was invited to join the Association of American Universities, a prestigious organization that recognizes strong research universities, in June of 2023. This established Miami as one of only 69 U.S. universities to maintain membership and marked one of President Julio Frenk’s greatest achievements as the school’s leader. Today, former Deloitte LLP CEO and current UHealth CEO Joe Echevarria acts as president, and the university has schools of architecture, business, engineering, and medicine with national reputations.

E.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

As UM celebrates its centennial this year, there is confidence among administrators that the university is well-positioned for what the next 100 years will bring – as well as pride in how far a school that almost never was has come.

“I think the sky’s the limit,” Whitely says. “We’re continuing to build out our academic medical enterprise with the Lennar [Foundation Medical Center] building, [UHealth’s] Doral Medical Center, [and] the SoLé Mia facility, which will be in the Aventura area.” She adds, “I think George and Solomon Merrick would be super proud of what they created and wouldn’t even believe it. It was such a consequential decision [to create a university] that shaped the City of Coral Gables, as well as the City of Miami.” ■

DONNA

SHALALA, THE FORMER U.S. SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AND THE ONLY FEMALE PRESIDENT TO SERVE AT UM

Preserving the Magic:

Swanee DiMare’s Commitment to Vizcaya

Swanee DiMare, a dedicated philanthropist and community leader has been instrumental in preserving Miami’s cultural treasures. Growing up in Coral Gables, she has long admired Vizcaya Museum and Gardens as a place where history, art and nature come together. Since 2004 her involvement with Vizcaya has been particularly noteworthy helping to ensure this cultural landmark remains vibrant for future generations.

“I love Miami because of its diversity, its energy and the strong sense of community that makes the ‘Magic City’ truly magical,” says Swanee. “Vizcaya embodies all of that—it connects us to our past while inspiring the future.”

...Vizcaya embodies all of that - it connects us to our past while inspiring the future...

As a passionate advocate for giving back, Swanee believes in supporting the city and state she loves. Her generosity helps safeguard Vizcaya’s breathtaking gardens, historic architecture and educational initiatives. She invites you to join her in ensuring that Vizcaya remains a place of wonder and inspiration for years to come.

BE PART OF VIZCAYA’S FUTURE.

DONATE TODAY AT VIZCAYA.ORG/DONATE

Photo By Robin Hill Photography.

There’s a peaceful magic in the early morning quiet of Coral Gables, when the light is tinged blue, and the world hasn’t quite woken up. In this stillness, nature reveals its quiet workers – tiny birds darting from flower to flower, playing an essential role in keeping our ecosystems alive.

In South Florida, pollinator birds are an often-overlooked part of the natural web. While butterflies and bees tend to get all the attention, certain birds – especially hummingbirds and small songbirds – are also powerful pollinators. As they forage for nectar or insects, they brush against blossoms, collecting and transferring pollen along the way.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is one of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s most enchanting residents. These tiny, iridescent birds hover like living jewels, sipping nectar from native plants like firebush (Hamelia patens) and coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens). Their feeding behavior makes them vital pollinators, as pollen clings to their heads and beaks, transferring from flower to flower.

A Ruby-throated Hummingbird’s wings beat up to 53 times per second, creating the characteristic hum that is their namesake. Despite their small size, they migrate nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico,

Plumed Pollinators

BY EMILY DE ARMAS, CORAL GABLES GARDEN CLUB

covering 500 miles in a single flight. These birds are nature’s powerhouses, supporting native plants that, in turn, provide food and shelter for other species. Firebush, for instance, thrives in South Florida’s climate, offering nectar to birds and butterflies alike while requiring minimal maintenance – perfect for gardens aiming to attract pollinators.

Other great additions for attracting

hummingbirds include scarlet salvia (Salvia coccinea), red porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis), and cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis). These plants not only provide abundant nectar but also add vibrant pops of color to any yard.

The White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus), a year-round resident, is another delight. Its sharp, inquisitive song often gives away its presence before you spot its bright eyes

RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (PAGE 92)

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, shown opposite, is the most common hummingbird in Florida, and is easily identified by the male’s iridescent ruby-red throat feathers, metallic green back, and small size, about three inches long and weighing as little as a penny. They are well-known for feeding on nectar, and are especially attracted to firebush (Hamelia patens) shown left, and coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) shown below.

The White-eyed Vireo, is a common bird in Florida, known for its yellow “spectacles” around its white eyes, gray head, and yellow-washed sides. They are known for their variable, scratchy “chick-burio-chick” song, often heard but not seen, as the White-eyed Vireo are commonly hidden among dense secondary growth, forest edges, and thickets. They are drawn to native plants like salvia and wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa) shown below.

peering from the foliage. Vireos are drawn to native plants like salvia and wild coffee (Psychotria nervosa), which provide nectar, berries, and insects – a well-rounded buffet for these energetic birds.

Birds play an integral role in maintaining biodiversity. By pollinating native plants, they ensure the reproduction of species that form the backbone of our local ecosystem. These plants, in turn, support insects, birds, and other wildlife, creating a delicate web of life.

By choosing plants that evolved here rather than imported ornamentals, we create gardens that do more than look pretty. We build habitats that feed the birds, support insect life, and preserve the delicate balance of our environment. ■

WHITE-EYED VIREO (LEFT)

Congratulations to The City Beautiful as we commemorate and celebrate a century of rich history. The Biltmore is proud to be the iconic epicenter of one of America’s first planned cities. Here’s to another 100 great years.

As a thriving 21st-century metropolis with 20th-century roots, Coral Gables has long celebrated its trove of historic buildings, committing significant resources to their preservation and to an understanding of the importance of distinct architectural styles. From Mediterranean Revival to Neo-Baroque, Streamline Moderne to Googie, the mix was the message.

Renowned as a repository of 1920s homes, hotels, shops, and civic buildings, the city has extended its architectural reach in subsequent decades. While the Depression marked the big divide between the city’s original European-inspired buildings and the Modernist style that followed, the transition served to open the design floodgates to include even more building styles. Brutalism and Post-Modernism eventually became part of

Mix-Masters

OVER THE YEARS, THE ARCHITECTS OF CORAL GABLES CREATED A RICH TAPESTRY OF BUILDING STYLES THAT CONTINUE TO DEFINE THE CITY

BY BRUCE FITZGERALD AND KARELIA MARTINEZ CARBONELL. PHOTO BY VICKI CERDA

the mix. And the streets became the conduit for the expression of the city’s architectural identity. Consider the words of well-known designer and author Burton Hersch on the subject of historic preservation:  “...the most anti-historic thing you can do is make new things look old, because when you are trying to preserve something in historic preservation you don’t mistake new fabric for old fabric - history

is embellished in the facade of the street.”

Coral Gables has been making history for 100 years, ever since its1925 inception. The urban tapestry has grown ever larger, and more complex, reflecting changing standards of beauty and the disparate needs of the populace. Through it all, the architects continued to enhance George Merrick’s vision of a cosmopolitan tropical city. ■

THE CITY’S MIX OF BUILDING STYLES: THE 1925 COLONNADE WITH ITS MODERN 1987 ADDITION BEHIND IT, DRAMATIZING THE CITY’S MIX OF BUILDING STYLES

Meandering Around Town: Duffy’s Tavern

AN ADVENTURE IN WHICH A FORMER MAYOR CONTINUES TO SEEK THE “SOUL” OF HIS HOMETOWN.

BY DON SLESNICK

The historic Tun Tavern in Philadelphia was a meeting place for several notable pre-Revolutionary War political groups, and a favorite “watering hole” for Ben Franklin. It is traditionally regarded as the site where, in 1775, the U.S. Marine Corps held its first recruitment drive. It is also regarded as one of the birthplaces of the Masonic teachings in America.

My ramble this month takes me to the western border of our fair city across Red Road to (if you’ve ever read the sign on the south side of the building) the “Tun Tavern South” – a gathering place for local citizens for almost 90 years. We know it today as “Duffy’s Tavern,” its name since 1955, when Martin Duffy turned a seedy bar (opened in 1937) into a more sophisticated pub restaurant.

Fast forward to 1984 when a young UM grad, Wayne Russell, became manager of this establishment. Then, in 1988, Wayne and business partner Jimmy Fabbricatori (later to become Wayne’s father-in-law), buy the business and start it on the road to its place in the social soul of our community, despite its location (technically) just outside the city.

There are few Gables residents who have not dined or socialized at Duffy’s, and many of us make it a regular “hang-out” for sporting events on the multiple TV screens situated throughout the interior and outside portico (formerly a “Farm Store”). A visit to this pub is akin to touring a museum, with all the walls and ceilings covered with memorabilia featuring local lore and military history.

Groups that call Duffy’s home include St. Teresa’s Men Club (Wayne’s home parish), the Knights of Columbus, the Columbus

“FOR WHOEVER IS LONELY, THERE IS A TAVERN!”

QUOTE BY GEORG TRAKL

ABOVE: THE STAFF OUTSIDE DUFFY’S TAVERN ON RED ROAD, A REGULAR HANG-OUT FOR GABLES LOCALS. THE INTERIOR IS FESTOONED WITH PHOTOGRAPHS AND MEMORABILIA OF ALL THINGS SOUTH FLORIDA

High School Golf Tournament Committee, the Pan Am Stewardesses (now known as “Flight Attendants”) Alumni, and, more than a few times, the ladies of the Coral Gables Garden Club. Of course, as you may readily guess, this Tavern is also the site of the annual celebration of the Marine Corps birthday!

It should be noted that Duffy’s has also been a valuable substitute dining site at various times, such as when the Biltmore Hotel’s 19th Hole was closed for a couple of years to make way for the new Fairways Restaurant, and when Burger Bob’s on Granada Golf Course was experiencing a restoration project lasting several years (now reopened as The Birdie Bistro).

So, let’s raise a toast to Duffy’s with one of its specially brewed lagers; remember, when you are in a tavern, the drink of choice is beer because “no great story ever started with someone eating a salad!” (Anon.) ■

This column appears monthly by Don Slesnick, who served as mayor of Coral Gables from 2001 to 2011. For suggestions on where he should next meander in search of the city’s soul, email to: donslesnick@scllp.com.

Y O U R G A B L E S E S C A P E

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Junior League of Miami

Afternoon in Amalfi, Presented by Elemis

Junior League of Miami hosted an “Afternoon in Amalfi, Presented by Elemis” for the 24th Annual Women Who Make a Difference luncheon on Saturday, April 12 at the Coral Gables Country Club. The event honored four incredible women: Amanda Altman, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Tracy Wilson Mourning, and Karen Throckmorton.

Co-chairs Lindsay Kerdyk and Tonya Merrem transported 325 guests to the Amalfi Coast with drinks, lunch, music, and more. President Ava Habif announced that the late Mark Trowbridge would be made a Community Advisory Board Member Emeritus. The League also announced the recipients of scholarships for high school seniors entering college.

Proceeds from the record-breaking luncheon will support programming throughout Miami. The League’s flagship program is Inn Transition, a gated-community for survivors of domestic violence with children. This luncheon also supports scholarships for those women to resume their education.

1. Honoree Tracy Wilson Mourning

2. Honoree Amanda Altman

3. Honoree Karen Throckmorton

4. Honoree Mayor Daniella Levine Cava

5. JLM Leadership L-R: Michelle Vidal, Ava Habif, Vanessa Blanco-Banos, Kayla Cartwright Miranda

6. WWMD Team L-R: Lindsay Kerdyk, Maddie Guillard, and Tonya Merrem

7. Presenting Sponsor Elemis and guests with WWMD 2026 Co-Chairs Chelsea Ambriz and Felicia Shtivelman and Emcee Miriam Tapia

To Catch a Wave

THE ROLLING, STEADY PACIFIC SETS THE PACE IN EL ZONTE

BY YOUSRA BENKIRANE

The mornings in El Zonte begin with the sound of wave – not crashing, but curling in with that slow, steady Pacific rhythm surfers chase around the world. From my balcony at Wave House, I sip tea and watch early risers paddle into the glassy lineup. There’s no need for an alarm clock in this part of El Salvador. The ocean keeps its own time.

El Zonte wasn’t on my radar until recently, but within hours of arriving, it felt like one of those places you stumble into and immediately want to stay longer. It’s the kind of place that quietly works its way into you. The energy is calm, the streets are still partly unpaved, and dogs nap in the shade outside surf shops, smoothie stands, and along the beach. But don’t let its size or simplicity fool you – this tiny town has become a magnet for surfers, travelers, and those seeking something a little slower and more grounded. It’s also home to a compelling boutique hotel: Wave House El Zonte.

Wave House is a 19-unit condo-hotel built into the cliffs above one of El Zonte’s most consistent point breaks. It was founded by Pedro Querejeta, a Miami developer and lifelong surfer who first came to El Zonte in the early ‘90s. Back then, the beach was quiet, the roads were dirt, and the waves were empty. Over two decades later, Pedro returned with a vision – and a little Miami flair.

Today, that influence is easy to spot. There’s a rooftop cocktail bar developed in partnership with MiniBar Miami, a lounge area with design-forward furnishings by Miami-based TUUCI, and a hospitality model that feels polished yet personal.

THE SURF SCENE: WELCOMING, WORLD-CLASS

The surf here isn’t just good – it’s consistent. A right-hand point break rolls in just in front of Wave House, offering long, smooth rides that draw both beginners and more advanced surfers. When I finally waded into the water for my first-ever lesson with Puro Surf Academy, I was a mix of nerves and excitement. The instructors were relaxed and encouraging, and even though I wiped out more than I stood up, I left the water completely hooked.

One of the things to appreciate about El Zonte is how accessible the surf is. There’s no gatekeeping here. Locals, tourists, and remote-working nomads share the waves. People cheer each other on, help each other carry boards back to the beach, and trade surf stories over beers at the end of the day. It’s a real community, built around surf.

If you prefer to stay dry, sunning by the infinity pool at Wave House gives you a perfect front-row seat. I spent more than one afternoon lounging by the pool, watching as guests trickled in from the beach with boards under arms.

Wave House is designed for people who want to live the surf lifestyle without compromising on comfort. The rooms are spacious (mine had a full kitchen), with floor-to-ceiling windows and custom wood furniture. There’s a gym that focuses on biomechanics, a rooftop cold plunge and jacuzzi, and a rotating schedule of wellness offerings. But the surf is always the main event. Staff are quick to

help organize lessons, link you with a local board shaper, and tell you when the tide’s best for your skill level.

The crowd here is an interesting mix – Miami creatives, remote workers from Europe, Salvadoran expats reconnecting with their country, and even a few Bitcoin enthusiasts, drawn in by El Zonte’s earlier nickname “Bitcoin Beach.” But while the economy of the town may be shifting, the vibe hasn’t lost its casual charm.

When I wasn’t surfing (or recovering from surfing), I explored the culinary scene in town. Dinner at Covana Kitchen was a standout: open-air seating, cold drinks, and an emphasis on locally

ank you, Coral Gables.

It has been a privilege to serve the people of Coral Gables, and I’m honored to have earned your support for another term on the City Commission.

This election saw the highest voter turnout in over five years — a clear sign that residents are engaged, paying attention, and deeply invested in the future of our city. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue working on your behalf and for the trust you’ve placed in me.

I remain committed to responsible, steady leadership that prioritizes the needs of our residents. That means protecting the character of our neighborhoods, keeping taxes low, and ensuring that your voice is heard in every decision we make.

A stable and focused City Commission is essential to moving Coral Gables forward. I will continue working to improve infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and uphold the transparency and ethics that are the foundation of good government.

Thank you again for your confidence and support. I look forward to continuing our work together in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Rhonda Anderson Vice Mayor, City of Coral Gables

Please sign up for my newsletter, and stay informed, by scanning here:

TOP: THE SURF OFFERS LONG, SMOOTH RIDES THAT DRAW BOTH BEGINNERS AND MORE ADVANCED SURFERS

BOTTOM: WAVE HOUSE OFFERS ROOMS THAT ARE SPACIOUS, WITH FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS AND CUSTOM WOOD FURNITURE. AMENITIES INCLUDE A COLD PLUNGE POOL AND JACUZZI, A ROOFTOP COCKTAIL BAR, AND MORE

sourced ingredients. Another night, we ate at a pupusería tucked down a side street – plastic chairs, sizzling griddles, and pupusas (a thick griddle cake) oozing with cheese and loroco; no frills, all flavor. Another favorite was Beto’s, a cliffside restaurant with sweeping views and grilled seafood.

On my last day, I woke up early for one final rooftop smoothie. The ocean was glassy, a few surfers already in the water. I thought about joining them, but instead just watched – grateful to have experienced El Zonte from both the shore and the surf. ■

65 of the Best Restaurants

THE DINING GUIDE

May 2025

Each month we publish a select list of restaurants that we recommend for our readers. We cannot, of course, include the Top 100 each month, so this month we are featuring 65 of the best in the categories of American, Asian, French, Italian, and Steak Houses. Next month we will look at the best of Latin American, Mediterranean, Seafood, and Spanish restaurants, as well as Pubs & Cafes – along with some of our other perennial favorites.

$ ............ Under $25

$$ .......... $25-$40

$$$ ........ $35-$75

$$$$ ...... $70-$100+

Prices are per person for appetizer and entrée, without tax, tip, or drinks. Prices are approximations.

Bachour

Chef Antonio Bachour was lured to the Gables by developer Armando Codina after winning the award for best pastry chef in the world. But this airy, industrial chic spot has become much mor, including the best power breakfast place in town, with amazingly good eggs benedict and challah French toast. Also open for lunch and an early dinner, with great Greek salad and roast chicken breast. 2020 Salzedo St. 305.203.0552 $$

Beauty and the Butcher

Michelin-starred Chef Jeremy Ford is no longer with Beauty & The Butcher, but Chef de Cuisine Jeremy Kermisch has proven himself an able replacement. The highlight here is still the Australian Wagyu beef, either as a filet or top sirloin, but the smoked lamb Denver ribs glazed by date honey BBQ sauce, with sides of pineapple jicama slaw and polenta bravas, is a real contender. 6915 Red Rd. 305.665.9661 $$$-$$$$

Capital Burger

Lots of buzz surrounded this addition to Miracle Mile, filling the spot formerly occupied by California Pizza Kitchen. Owned by the same folks as The Capital Grille, this upscale burger joint delves into gourmet cuisine with signature burgers, boozy milkshakes, and craft cocktails. 300 Miracle Mile. 786.437.3741 $$

Cascade Pool Café

Handheld snacks and salads make up most of the menu here, with some nice entrees like a great poke bowl, turkey Cobb salad and a Caribbean grilled snapper. If you’re eating poolside,

you’re probably more interested in the drinks though – of which there are many, including some frozen. 1200 Anastasia Ave. (The Biltmore Hotel) 305.445.1926 $$

Cebada Rooftop & Raw Bar

It’s hard to pigeonhole this rooftop restaurant by Chef Jorge Ramos (fresh from his acclaimed Barley restaurant in Dadeland). He calls it “contemporary American with a Latin overlay” which means roast bone marrow with salsa verde and baby back ribs with pimiento marmalade. A good raw bar, a great view. 124 Giralda Ave. 786.409.2287 $$-$$$

Doc B’s Restaurant + Bar

Doc B’s Restaurant + Bar serves crave-able American fare dishes made from scratch daily. Offering brunch, lunch, dinner, and a solid happy hour, signature dishes include the Wok Out Bowls. But our favorites are the candied bacon, the oven-roasted chicken wings, and the Southern fried chicken. 301 Miracle Mile 786.864.1220 $$

Eating House

Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli’s maiden Coral Gables restaurant returned with fanfare after closing in the summer of 2021, this time on Giralda Plaza. Serving brunch, dinner, and a new lunch menu, the food here is an exciting stretch of the palate – like roasted Brussels sprouts with green goddess dressing. Try their prix fixe tasting menus. 128 Giralda Ave. 786.580.3745 $$-$$$

Emmy Squared

This Detroit-style pizza spot is the first of its kind in the Gables, featuring rectangular pan pizzas with thick, crispy crusts. We love the VIP, which is topped with crispy slices of pepperoni, spicy Calabrian chiles, and parsley pesto, and features a sesame seed crust and a homemade vodka sauce base. There’s also an award-winning burger! 230 Miracle Mile. 786.607.3669 $$

FAIRWAYS

Though the food is great, and the drinks even more so, it’s the ambience

and the views that wow at this golfer’s paradise by the Biltmore Hotel’s golf course. Sunset views of the course and a beautiful outdoor patio pair with an airy interior – plus the best BLT in Miami. All-day breakfast items are a huge plus. 1200 Anastasia Ave. (The Biltmore Hotel). 305.445.8066. $$

The Globe

The Globe is a Gables icon, and one of the coolest places to eat in the city –assuming you like a smart, Euro-style bistro. Decorated with classic paintings (and globes over their old-world bar), the menu is mostly American dishes – salads, burgers, fish, steaks, etc. – perfected over the years. Best conch fritters. 377 Alhambra Circle 305.445.3555 $$

Hillstone

There are very few restaurants in the Gables where clients will wait in a line outside. Hillstone is one of them. A power lunch spot, a happy hour singles anchor, and a family restaurant at night, the food and service are consistently top notch, with an elegant interior that is both comfortable and sophisticated at the same time. 201 Miracle Mile. 305.529.0141 $$$

John Martin’s

The venerable pub that closed during COVID has returned, updated as a “21st century” Irish pub. This means a bright new bar and lots of light from floor-to-ceiling windows. Along with the new look is a significantly upgraded menu, with things like Guinness-glazed meatballs and duck flatbread added to the Shepherd’s pie. 253 Miracle Mile. 305.209.0609 $$-$$$

PINCHO

One of the best fast-casual burger spots in town, with consistently interesting Latin-focused menu items like burger buns made from fried plantains and ketchup with guava. Great kabobs as well and the meat is highly awarded. 30 Giralda Ave. 305.446.5666. $$

Seasons 52

The restaurant for healthy eaters who enjoy quality as well. The menu, changing four times a year with each season,

is always full of inventive treatments for fresh veggies, soups, and salads. Their fish and meat dishes are great values, and the flatbread menu is a nice touch. It’s a chain, but we forgive them. 321 Miracle Mile 305.442.8552 $$

Tap 42

Tap 42 is big, noisy, and fun, with a huge island bar and lots of booths. Reliably good ribs, steaks, and burgers, and it shines in the sides (roasted brussels sprouts with maple mustard, truffle mac & cheese with parmesan crust). Nice random Asian dishes (grilled salmon Zen bowl, Asian coleslaw) and a good happy hour. 301 Giralda Ave. 786.391.1566 $$-$$$

The Collab

When we first heard Chef Niven Patel was leaving his two concepts at the THesis Hotel, Orno and Mamey, we were despondent. But we’re happy to report that Orno’s replacement, Chef Nicolas Mazier’s The Collab, is a gastronomic success. We love the beef tartare, served on bite-sized pieces of crispy bao buns and combined with black garlic aioli, pickled mustard seeds, chives, and an onion jam that elevates the beef to culinary heaven. 1350 S Dixie Hwy. (THesis Hotel). 305.667.6766. $$$

Vinya Table

A wine lover’s retreat and former popup, Vinya is a full restaurant with seafood, pasta, charcuterie, and a 42-ounce tomahawk steak, among other meats. But if you’re not looking at the wine list first, you might be in the wrong place. Categorized by region, rarity, price, flavor profile, winemaking, and varietal, Vinya has wines for every kind of sommelier wannabe and then some. 266 Miracle Mile. 305.203.4229 $$-$$$

Yard House

A cavernous space with huge screens for sports fans, oversized paintings, classic rock in the background, and large booths, all making for a comfortable space in which to pick and choose from an immense and reliable menu of American classics with Asian dishes interspersed. Literally something for

everyone, and great selection of beer on tap and bottled. 320 San Lorenzo Ave. 305.447.9273 $$

ASIAN

Dōjō

When Chef Pablo Zitzmann initially opened Zitz Sum, it was just a pop-up. That now-permanent structure is joined by his latest creation Dojo, an izakaya restaurant that encourages its patrons to start with some chilled sake. From there it’s mochiko fried chicken oysters, Okonomiyaki cabbage pancake, and a 14-ounce teak cooked on a teppanyaki grill and served with sides and dipping sauces. 148 Giralda Ave. 305.849.3456. $$-$$$

Ichimi

This off-Mile eatery has developed a cult following, with diners content to stand in line and stare just for the opportunity to eat Ichimi’s ramen and rice bowls. And the wait is worth it. Delicious, rich, and faraway flavors in dishes you can’t find just anywhere, in a raw, cool space. Pro tip: try the scallion pancake. 2330 Salzedo St. 305.960.7016 $-$$

KAO Sushi & Grill

Not sure of the vibe here – the décor inside feels oddly like you’re in Las Vegas – but the outside seating on the Mile is quite nice. Menu-wise, there are specialty rolls with an interesting Peruvian spin that includes a wide selection of ceviche, along with empanadas and chorizo. 127 Miracle Mile. 786.864.1212 $$

Khaosan Road

Formerly Bangkok, Bangkok, this Giralda Plaza mainstay – with plenty of outdoor tables – has reinvented itself as the new home for Thai street food. Think you know Thai food? Be prepared for new and delicious tastes, from curry street sausage to the best crispy duck. 157 Giralda Plaza. 305.444.2397 $$

Kojin 2.0

There must be something in the air at 804 Ponce de Leon, the spot which formerly hosted Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli’s Eating House and Chef Michael Bolen’s Lion & The Rambler. Today, the address belongs to Kojin 2.0, where you can find twice-cooked chicken, scallops with white bean sauce and pork, and a Japanese take on the traditional chicken sandwich. Tasting menus from $85-plus with constantly changing ingredients. 804 Ponce de Leon. 786.747.1404 $$$

Su Shin Izakaya

Located across the street from the Colonnade building, this tiny, bustling Japanese restaurant serves a great bento box – along with an impressive array of daily specials that are posted on the wall in chalk. Super popular

lunch spot, for good reason – a much deeper take on Japanese food than just sushi and rolls. 159 Aragon Ave. 305.445.2584 $$

Mai Sushi Tapas & Bar

A large portion of the menu here is on sticks, a variety of skewers and sushi pintxos inspired by the Spanish bar snacks but reinvented to spotlight sea ingredients like freshwater eel, sea urchin, and octopus. And as the name suggests, there’s sashimi – both traditional and elevated – and beverages made with shochu, the distilled Japanese spirit. 98 Miracle Mile. 206.696.0674 $$-$$$

Malakor Thai Isaan

This eatery on Miracle Mile prides itself on delivering true, tasty Thai food. That means pork skewers with sticky rice, grilled fatty pork neck sliced and tossed with lime juice, or the Gang Aom, a Thai curry with fish sauce, dill and herb paste. And they can really spice it up. 90 Miracle Mile 786.558.4862 $$

Moon Thai & Japanese

Can’t decide between Japanese or Thai food? No problem. Here, you can have a Japanese house salad or miso soup as an appetizer and Pad Thai as an entrée. Truly the best of both worlds. Comfy booths inside and umbrella-covered outdoor tables. Across the street from UM. 1118 S. Dixie Hwy. 305.668.9890 $$

Namaste

Hidden on a side street off Ponce, the last standing Indian restaurant in the Gables is small and humble (“namaste” means “I bow to you”) yet superb in its rendering of classic Indian dishes, from tandoris to biryanis. Our favorite is the mango curry chicken, followed by the chef’s special black pepper shrimp. 221 Navarre Ave. 786.534.2161 $$

Osumi

Offering elevated Japanese-American fusion cuisine with a Latin flair, this cocktail and sushi bar pulls out all the stops to cater to Gableites, from its sophisticated low-light ambiance to its signature drinks by mixology masters from Café La Trova. The star here is the Tuna Sumibiyaki ($22), made up of thin slices of tuna laid in a creamy sesame sauce and topped with Asian pear and cassava chips.110 Giralda Ave. 786.452.9902. $$$

Sakura Japanese

A vast menu for rolls, along with selections of noodles, yakitori, katsu, tempura, teriyaki, etc. But they serve some of the best sushi and sashimi in town, if raw fish is your thing. We also love their seating – a half dozen alcoves that line the walls and provide a sense of private space. 440 S Dixie Hwy. 305.665.7020 $$

Sawa

Delicious take on Japanese flavors served in parallel with Lebanese Mediterranean, Sawa offers seating inside or outside at the Shops at Merrick Park. A vast selection of sushi rolls and tapas that range from chicken yakitori to octopus ceviche, along with super fresh Middle Eastern comfort food. Also has a doggy menu and late-night happy hour. 360 San Lorenzo Ave. (Shops at Merrick Park) 305.447.6555 $$$

SHINGO

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, consider the omakase menu at Coral Gables’ first Michelin-starred restaurant. Located in the historic La Palma building, the restaurant is the brainchild of now twice-starred Chef Shingo Akikuni, previously of Hidden in Wynwood. Every element of the restaurant is carefully curated, from the pristine 14-seat table to how each course is served. 112 Alhambra Circle. shingomiami.com. $$$$

Sushi Maki

Flagship of the Ng family food empire, Sushi Maki has some of the best sushi service anywhere, albeit in an unsophisticated space. No matter. Good prices, fresh fish and some over the top desserts to balance all that protein – like deep fried oreos. 2335 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.443.1884. $$

Zitz Sum

Brought to you by Chef Pablo Zitzmann of No Name Chinese fame, this “pop up” dinner restaurant off the huge lobby of the 396 Building is here to stay. The result of a year-long pandemic dive into dim sum by Zitzmann, the dumplings, hand-rolled daily, are superb. Other menu items are highly inventive and flavorful. 396 Alhambra Circle. 786.409.6920 $$-$$$

ITALIAN

450Gradi

With so many Italian restaurants in Coral Gables, it’s incredible how hard it is to find a good slice of pizza. But 450 Gradi’s pizzas are wonderfully inventive and deliciously layered, featuring ingredients like Italian buffalo cheese, basil pesto, pork cheek, and truffle cream. Under the direction of Chef Antonio, dishes like the branzino, veal, and salmon filet are equally full of panache. 130 Miracle Mile #101. 786.391.1276 $$$

Bugatti

Bugatti prides itself on its pasta – and for good reason, since the restaurant started as a pasta factory. The décor is simple and contemporary, with lots of booths, and the service is crisp and superb, with most of the staff having worked here for over a decade. The dinner menu is straightforward, with pasta dishes under $20 and entrees under $30. And as many dessert listings

(12) as pasta choices. 2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.441.2545 $$

Caffe Abbracci

A Gables icon, Nino Pernetti’s Italian restaurant is both a power lunch favorite for the business elite and a cozy evening gathering place for families and couples. Abbracci is quiet and elegant, and the food is so consistently good that Pernetti had to publish his own cookbook. Plus, unique sound dampers mean you can always be heard. 318 Aragon Ave. 305.441.0700 $$$

Caffe Vialetto

Not a huge menu, but when it comes to risotto, pappardelle, fettuccini, and ravioli, they do it right. And we love their Wednesday and Thursday “family” dinners for $100, with lots of great dishes, that serve four or five diners. Reservations required, always full. 4019 Le Jeune Rd. 305.446.5659 $$$

Fiola

Brought to you by Washington, D.C. Chef Fabio Trabocchi, this is fine dining at its finest. From the place settings to the artwork to the innovative cuisine, Fiola offers an exquisite dining experience. Among their must-try dishes are the porcini mushroom soup, sea scallops ceviche, and the signature lobster ravioli. Beautiful presentations. 1500 San Ignacio Ave. 305.912.2639 $$$$

Fontana

The ambiance is as elegant as it comes: the Biltmore’s famed fountain courtyard. You can sit under the stars, in a covered archway, or inside to enjoy classic Italian dishes. Fresh ingredients, from the salads to the homemade pasta. Excellent seafood. One of the most romantic restaurants in the Gables. 1200 Anastasia Ave. (Biltmore Hotel) 305.913.3200 $$$

Fugato

They will tell you they serve “continental” fusion cuisine, and yes, there is a touch of French and Spanish cooking here. But the chicken Florentine, ravioli aragosta, ravioli zucca, golden calamari, and veal ossobuco say otherwise. Well-prepared dishes in an intimate setting make this a romantic choice. 325 Alcazar Ave. 786.420.2910 $$$-$$$$

Fratellino

Small, family-run, with a fanatically loyal fan base and brilliant Italian comfort food. The long narrow set up with tile floors, wooden chairs, and tablecloths makes it feel like New York’s Little Italy. Their calamari, in any variation, is superb, as is the fettuccine with prosciutto, mushrooms, and green peas. 264 Miracle Mile. 786.452.0068 $$$

Il Duomo Dei Sapori

Yet another entry into Coral Gables’ spate of Italian eateries, Il Duomo Dei Sapori appears to have simply materialized as a fully formed fine dining restaurant on Ponce. Our favorite here

is the chicche di patate al tartufo ($35), which is code for “creamy gnocchi with truffle.” Excellent cuisine. 2312 Ponce de Leon. 305.381.5604 $$$-$$$$

La Terrazza

The showstoppers here, at Fiola’s reinvented rooftop bar, are the fish and meat. The one-pound Margaret River New York Strip is an Australian Wagyu of exceptional flavor, rich and easily shared by a party of four. The fish is painted with an Adriatic blend of herbs in oil, like herb butter but less fatty, which lets the skin crisp to a sweet wafer that compliments the moist morsels of fish. Yum. 1500 San Ignacio Ave. 305.912.2639 $$$-$$$$

Luca Osteria

An Italian fine dining spot by local celebrity Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli (Eating House), Luca Osteria is a reservation-only hit for dinner on Giralda Plaza. Rapicavoli’s inventive take on classic Italian food is fresh and new; the pasta al limone and mortadella toast with fig balsamic are just the beginning. Great Italian cocktails. 116 Giralda Ave. 305.381.5097 $$$-$$$$

Portosole

When they bring the pecorino cheese wheel to the table to toss your pasta, you’re in heaven. Short of that, they do a fine job with the fritto misto, a mixture of calamari, shrimp, filet of sole, tiny artichokes, and zucchini, all

lightly fried. Equally appetizing is the fresh burrata with heirloom tomatoes, a deceptively simple salad of tomato and burrata cheese. 2530 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 786.359.4275 $$$

Salumeria 104

Trattoria-style Salumeria is now two years old, with a loyal clientele, especially at lunchtime. Partly, that is because the food and ambience is authentically Northern Italian and rustic. It may also be thanks to their inventive pastas, and sandwiches of artisan cured meats, always fresh and flavorful. Those sliced salumi meats are buono! 117 Miracle Mile. 305.640.5547 $$

Terre Del Sapore

Terre started out as primarily a pizza place, and their Neapolitan style pizza – cooked in a massive wood-burning over – won the Best Pizza in the Gables from Coral Gables Magazine. Now they have expanded to include a signature osso Bucco, along with an array of pasta dishes. Nice seating outside as well. 246 Giralda Ave. 786.870.5955 $$

Tullio

The brainchild of Lucio Zanon and his son Sebastiano — who previously launched Portosole — Tullio is Italian cuisine with a northern Venetian sensibility, a focus on seafood, and some very inventive pasta dishes. The fish is exceptionally fresh, the branzino flown in

from the waters of Italy, the shrimp from the waters of Argentina, and the lobster from the waters of Maine. Winner of Coral Gables Best Fine Dining 2024 award, always a table-side show of impeccable hospitality. 2525 Ponce de Leon. 305.926.4208 $$$-$$$$

Zucca

Located at the elegant St. Michel hotel, this is a star in the galaxy of Italian eateries in the Gables. Distinctly northern Italian, with recipes that Chef Manuel Garcia developed in a career that included the legendary Casa Tua on Miami Beach. Modern Italian design, sophisticated, with great service. Moving to the Regency Parc development in 2026, but for now still in the old hotel – and the hands down power lunch place in town. 162 Alcazar Ave. 786.580.3731 $$$-$$$$

LATIN AMERICAN

Arcano

Arcano advertises its food as hailing from Hispanio America, a mix of Spanish, Latin and Central American cuisine. In the new fashion, the menu is separated not by appetizers and entrees, but by earth, land, and sea, with “teasers” as sides. To sample as as possible order tapas-style. Recommend: chicharrón suflado (pork rind) and raíz Encantada, small stacks of golden and purple beets with chili oil. 259 Giralda Ave. 305.530.8332 $$

Aromas del Peru

Yes, they serve a dozen types of ceviche here. But it’s the breadth of the menu that impresses, with traditional soups, grilled meats, wok stir fries, and signature dishes such as aji de gallina (shredded chicken in yellow pepper sauce) and seco de res (beef stewed in beer and cilantro, with vegetables). Good service, good prices, nice ambiance. 1930 Ponce de León Blvd. $$

Baire’s

One of our favorite spots for an outdoor happy hour is this Argentine restaurant with comfortable lounge seats snuggled underneath the Hotel Colonnade’s imposing arches and a dimly lit marble bar inside. Our favorites are the delicately flavored fruit-based martinis, paired with the small bar plates on happy hour. Great Argentinean steaks.180 Aragon Ave. 76.409.5121 $$$

Bistro Café

The popular Puerto Rican restaurant has opened a location in the Gables following its stellar success in Downtown Miami. Lucky for us, they brought their upscale breakfast, right by The Shops at Merrick Park. All-day breakfast is never a bad idea, especially when it’s this good. The expansive menu has a huge list of savory and sweet options, from innovative plates to upgraded classics. 4155 Laguna St. 305.530.8193 $$

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila’s eighth location gives us our latest go-to locale for all-day quick bites, including a hidden backroom mezcal lounge. The wide selection of tacos mixed with unconventional interpretations solidifies Bodega as a true taqueria, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get the classics here. And, of course, grab a shot of tequila. 317 Miracle Mile. 786.785.1501 $$

CVI.CHE 105

If you want to delve into the wide array of flavors that Peru has to offer, there is no better place than CVI. CHE 105 at The Plaza Coral Gables. The menu is rich with seafood, including a fine selection of tiraditos, ceviches, and rolls, along with an array of fried and grilled selections of mahi mahi, snapper, Pacific white fish, shrimp, etc. And there’s even a special Gables menu that you won’t find at any of the other South Florida locations. This is the flagship of the local chain, and it show. 111 Palermo Ave. #108. 786.527.3939 $$-$$$

Divino Ceviche

Bringing a taste of Peru to Giralda Plaza, Divino Ceviche is known, as you might guess, for its ceviche. From the ceviche tradicional to the ceviche de mercado to the ceviche nikkei, there’s

no shortage of the stuff. The restaurant also has Peruvian beers and notable non-ceviche dishes like octopus croquetas and a tasting of three different causas (layered potatoes with chiles, avocados, tuna, boiled eggs, onion). 160 Giralda Ave. 786.360.3775 $$

Francesco

The latest fusion restaurant in the Gables is a marriage between Peruvian and Italian, a slightly strange but happy coupling that combines ceviche and lomo saltado with squid ink risotto and New York strip steak. Still, Peruvian remains the focus here, especially when it comes to the appetizers, where all but one is seafood. The cocktails are fabulous, as is the canelones de aji de gallina, a sort of Peruvian-Italian enchilada. 278 Miracle Mile. 305.797.4039 $$$

Graziano’s

This large, popular Gables mainstay is true Argentine. A deep selection of Argentine wines (which line several walls) go with beef slowly roasted over a quebracho wood fire, old schoolstyle. They have seafood and pasta, empanadas and salads, but come here for the meat – it’s a carnivore’s delight. 394 Giralda Ave. 305.774.3599 $$$

La Casita

This family run eatery is the true home of Cuban comfort food, with an ambi-

ance and prices both straight from the 1950s. In a small shopping center on the north side of Calle Ocho, La Casita is a throwback to another era, with full meals still available for $13.95. And great café con leche to wash it down. 3805 8th St. 305.448.8224 $$

La Rosa

In a slightly less trafficked area of Miracle Mile, La Rosa is an eye-catcher. Inside the warm interior features a warmly lit bar and a huge rose on one wall. The menu is fun and Miami-esque, with three steaks served “on fire” tableside – quite literally. Also recommended is the chipotle cauliflower tacos and the jamón and chorizo croquetas, which came with a delicious sauce. Our favorite dish: the coconut flan for dessert. 382 Miracle Mile. 786.870.5466. $$-$$$

Maiz y Agave

With three stories, three menus, and three different concepts for lunch, dinner, and happy hour/drinks, Maiz y Agave is probably Coral Gables’ most ambitious restaurant. The first floor is devoted to a more casual lunch, the second floor is for a more refined dinner, and the rooftop bar has spectacular sunset views of City Hall. Every dish here comes straight out of Oaxaca, Mexico – including the insects! 375 Miracle Mile. 305.723.9898 $$-$$$

Ojo de Agua

With over 35 locations in Mexico, restaurant chain Ojo de Agua now has a second location in Miami, right here on Miracle Mile. Ojo de Agua provides Gableites with a long list of fresh options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night bites (it’s open until 10 pm on weekdays), but what differentiates it from the slew of other health-conscious restaurants is its nod to authentic Mexican flavors, albeit adapted for the American palate. 219 Miracle Mile. $$

Pisco y Nazca

Peruvian seems to be the taste of 2024, including the opening of ceviche gastrobar Pisco y Nazca. This prime location, formerly the Miller Ale House, received a modernizing facelift and has myriad seating options ideal for happy hour outings and group dinners. The pisco sours are exquisite. 101 Miracle Mile. 786.810.2266 $$-$$$

Talavera Cocina Mexicana

Recently renovated, this is a pleasant place to dine, but it’s the authentic fare that shines. The place for Mexicans homesick for cooking that’s not Tex-Mex. The chicken mole poblano is a winner, and their huarache grill –masa flatbreads that are really haute tacos – are great. Somewhat pricy, but delicious. 2299 Ponce de Leon Blvd. 305.444.2955 $$-$$$

Where Am I?

This dome is one of our favorites along the Coral Gables skyline. If you know where it’s located, send the answer to kwang@coralgablesmagazine.com along with your home address. The first four winners will win two tickets

to the Actors’ Playhouse or GableStage production of their choice and the next 10 will receive two tickets to the Coral Gables Museum. Last month’s “Where Am I?” was the door of the Alhambra Water Tower.

One City. One Dealer. One Heart.

For over 70 years, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables has been more than just a dealership; we’ve been part of the heartbeat of our community. From the tree-lined streets of Miracle Mile to the timeless charm of the Biltmore, we've witnessed the growth of Coral Gables, and we’ve grown with it.

Generations of families have trusted us with their journeys—whether it’s the first car for a new graduate or a symbol of achievement for a lifetime of hard work. We’ve celebrated milestones with you, shared in your success, and taken pride in being part of your story.

At Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, our promise goes beyond delivering world-class vehicles. It’s about forging connections, building relationships, and upholding a legacy of excellence. Because, like Coral Gables, we believe in tradition and community.

Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables One City. One Dealer. One Heart.

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