Wire Magazine Issue #08, 2011: Miami International Film Festival

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10th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival Arrives!

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ISSUE #08 | 02/24/11

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9/09/10 9:37 AM

ALL WIRED UP

BY THOMAS BARKER

HAZY NOSTALGIA Since Wire Magazine began 25 years ago, we have had a ridiculous obsession with food. I’ve personally written dozens of restaurant reviews, interviewed a countless number of chefs, and enjoyed thousands of fabulous meals at some of South Florida’s most opulent dining destinations. Needless to say, I love, love, love great food and fantastic chefs, which is why I can barely contain myself, as I celebrate the arrival of the 10th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival.

I actually remember my first Wine and Food Festival as clearly – or I guess as hazy – as ever. I was lucky enough to snag some tickets for the Grand Tasting event. Not really knowing what to expect, I headed out to the sand for a day of wine and food tasting. Within moments of arrival, I was handed a fabulous Riedel wine glass and went on my way to experience a culinary adventure.

As I made my way through the tent, I discovered the Moët & Chandon Lounge, and I thought I had died and gone to the Elysian Fields. Bottle after bottle of Moët & Chandon White Star seemed to flow freely from the hands of the sexiest of men. Now, I am always one for selecting a bartender and sticking with him throughout the party. I mean, in some places, I have had the same bartender for three years. Anyhow, the selection process is very simple – whoever’s the hottest gets to serve my drinks! But, at this lounge, the selection process was actually pretty grueling.

After debating between a hot Polish guy with a tattoo and a sensual looking model-type, I chose the model-type. I figured he was closest one to playing on my team.

After choosing my bartender, I was ready to get the champagne flowing. There’s no telling how much time I spent in the lounge over the weekend, but I can tell you that by the end of the festival everyone at the Moët & Chandon Lounge knew me as the only regular!

In a column I wrote in 2006, describing my first Wine and Food Festival experience, I wrote the following:

Throughout the weekend, I got the chance to also mix and mingle with some of the biggest names in the culinary world. Local favorites like Michelle Bernstein, Douglas Rodriguez, and Jonathan Eisman seemed to rule the Festival, showcasing their talents in a number of seminars and cooking demos.

Every day I would pick up my wine glass and make my way through each tent picking up glass after glass of wine and a few nibbly things here and there as well. My three favorite booths were Miss Yip’s, 510 Ocean, and Karu&Y. Each restaurant was showcasing one of their signature dishes, and each one was delicious.

I would love to go into more detail on what they actually discussed during their seminars and cooking demos, but the combination of the case of Moët & Chandon paired with the countless glasses of wine kind of make it difficult to recall almost anything at all. Let’s just say, I can’t wait to do it all over again next year!

And that is exactly what I’ve been doing every year since, and certainly plan to do this year!

My South Beach Wine and Food Festival Weekend will begin this Thursday at De Rodriguez on Ocean for the Botran Rum media luncheon. Chefs Douglas Rodriguez, Carmen Trigueros, and La Bottega will be showcasing some of their most delictible nibbles at Douglas Rodriguez’ newest restaurant.

I’m planning to keep the party going later at 8 p.m. at The Lords South Beach for its new Thursday night drag dinner, Meeting of The Lords. The evening will include shows by TP Lords, Sasha Lords, and Kiara Knight paired with a fantastic three-course meal and a glass of wine!

Of course, I couldn’t miss the most fabulous event of all South Beach Wine and Food Festival events, The Bubble Q on Friday. Saturday will be spent at the Grand Tasting, where we’ll be imbibing and eating till we drop.

Saturday night, it will be all about The Ritz Carlton for their Grill and Chill event, which will feature grilled specialties, the Burger Bash hamburger, watermelon sangria, high tech telescopes and more.

The next day, we’ll be hosting a fabulous event of our own, as we take over The Lords South Beach for the Wire Magazine Traveling Brunch. Three courses paired with three hours of free UNLIMITED 42BELOW vodka cocktails!

Don’t call me on Monday!

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF: HMO NURSE PICTURES

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PUBLIShER'S corNer

PUBLISHERS’ CORNER wow! iT’S BeeN A yeAr? JoiN wire mA WHO’S GOING TO PAY FOR IT? SOMEBODY HAS TO...

In the last few weeks I’ve had some very worthy of note conversations with many Wire Magazine readers, who, like me, are very interested in the future of our city, state, and country. These readers have shared their own opinions with me regarding the run-away budget deficits that are crippling our nation and many states and cities. Even though some of the solutions we discussed vary in their approach, we all agree that our governments cannot continue spending like drunken sailors who borrow money with no regard for the future.

As a businessman and an economist, I understand what the consequences of continued government borrowing and overspending beyond its means are. Furthermore, I also grew up in Costa Rica and experienced first hand how Latin American countries used the International Monetary Fund and U.S. banks to overspend by borrowing money, instead of balancing their budgets.

Anyone who remembers, or lived through, the Latin American banking crisis understands that overspending eventually blows up and leads to a mountain of pain for average citizens, drastic cuts, unemployment, and high interest rates that become the only option once the money train stops dead in its tracks.

The real question before us is “will the United States

your money better than you can, then you won’t mind

and many states andhave cities do probably something today paying more in taxes so that our federal, state,taking and local This week and lastof ourweek events and parties p to balance budgets, or will politicians continue avoiding governments can continue spending. I do not believe reality and spending us into a much bigger crisis down in that, so I want government to clean up its spending been the busiest weeks ever forBecause Thomas parade, Expo, and day of the road?”

Why should you care? you live in habits, become more efficient, and actually lower my Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the United taxes, so I can decide how to invest my money in my States, on and ourwire future depends on finding a solution business and we how to are spend itincluding as I see fit. I wantatheco and I working magazine. why to ramped overspending. Several governors and mayors choice of spending my hard earned dollars to be mine, now having to tackle what President Obama, not the government’s.

Why? Forare a couple ofSenators very good can use as your map of wh previous Presidents, and our and members of Congress continue to avoid – how to pay for government I also wonder why public union labor bosses in expenditures and ever rising, unsustainable interest so afraid to of giving a choice reasons: We have been working Wisconsin andaretimes beteachers there. payments on public sector debt. regarding paying their labor union dues. Currently, it is the law that the state government collects the union am following very closely what is happening in very hard IWisconsin, on producing our second dues by deducting them directly from the teachers, and and it is clear that the battle lines for the other government employees’ paychecks, and paying presidential election are currently being fought to the unions.

Are public union labor afraid ever Pride2012 edition of them We also want tobossesextend therecollector’s today. The unions and the Democratic Party are that, unless mandated by a law, a teacher may decide out in force protecting their base, and the Republicans their $1,000 in annual labor union dues to pay and their constituents are fighting reduce labor’s wire magazine – that we tothink you to usewelcome you to join us for t influence on government as a tool to reduce government for something else? Most Americans believe in choice, so let public employees decide if they want to pay union spending. Clearly, someone is going to win this battle, or not. will really enjoy reading In duesPool Party at the hotel V and we will soon find out who. through.

This is also a test of how some of our mounting government deficits will be addressed. Something has to give. Money does not dition, we have also been working non-stop on the first ever Rafadecided to put together a grow on trees, so either government spending is cut or For The Publishers taxes are raised to continue spending.

Carvajal: rafa@wireweekly.com ficial Gay Pride Pool Party, which Wire magazine Rafa year’s Pride, courtesy of W Thomas Barker: thomas@wireweekly.com If you believe that government is efficient and can spend l host on Saturday, April 17th at the hotel Victor with have fun in the company nlandia Vodka and herradura Tequila as sponsors. complement the Parade, Ex Great ideas can main stages of Pride, and start anywhere Tell us your eally is hard to believe that a year has already gone by since we for some best additional fun at idea Knight Foundation is investing $40 million blished the first ever Pride Collector’s Edition of Wire magazine, fromthe1 p.m. toarts 7 p.m. thi for the in to bring South Florida together through contest is for everyone – established South Florida that is definitely the case. Pride is once againarts.The taking place in miik arts institutions, artists, businesses, service will be spinning, organizations or individuals. ami Beach this Saturday and we hope that all our readers in complimentary Finlandia v No idea is too large or too small, as long as it follows 3 basic rules: ami and Fort lauderdale will have a chance to enjoy this ticket purchase.

Your idea is about the arts.

Your project takes place in or benefits South Florida. ek’s 2010 Pride Collector’s Edition. We couldn’t have gotten You find other funding to match the Knight Foundation grant. re without all your support, and the support of our advertisers, make sure to stop by our Apply at onsors, and all theA members of the Wire staff.

Thanks very much your copy of this week’s sp program of the KnightArts.org from Feb. 7 – Mar. 2, 2011 Johnhelping S. and Jamesus L. Knight Foundation everyone for make this possible! contest, but definitely stop hotel Victor to celebrate Pr e also hope that you will be able to participate in the pool party. We will be cam 6 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com ide festivities on Saturday, plus many of the ancillary some additional fun in the

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BASE SPRING COLLECTION PREVIEW & COCKTAIL RECEPTION PHOTOS BY HENRY PEREZ

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TWISTED CIRCUS @ TWIST PHOTOS BY JOEL STEDMAN

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TWISTED CIRCUS @ TWIST PHOTOS BY JOEL STEDMAN

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WIRE COVER: (818): DEATH NEVER LOOKED SO WASHED UP!

BY THOMAS BARKER ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF HMO NURSE PICTURES From Paris Hilton’s A-List fistfights with other celebrities and being caught with every drug in the alphabet to Lindsay Lohan’s repeated rehab appearances and Sean Penn’s porn star slapping brawls, it seems we just cannot get enough of our celebrity lawbreakers. Even worse, we are repeatedly surprised when they receive nothing more than a slap on the wrist. No wonder they are all repeat offenders!

During the Miami International Film Festival, we will get the chance to see a hysterical film that epitomizes the scandalously glamorous world of celebrity lawbreakers. (818) will make its Miami debut next Sunday, March 5th and Monday, March 6th during the Festival, and we couldn’t be more excited.

From the director of Psycho Beach Party comes a dark comedy that delves into the world of celebrity lawbreakers and how, no matter how heinous the crime, the police would prefer to get an autograph instead of justice. “(818) is about Alyssa Rampart-Pillage, played by Beth Broderick, a washed up TV star whose career gets reignited when she's accused of killing her husband,” says (818) director Bob King. “The glory days of aging former TV queen Alyssa Rampart-Pillage are well behind her, and these days her on-camera presence is relegated to appearances in commercials for her husband Bernie's San Fernando Valley (area code - 818) appliance empire.

When their environmental radicalist daughter Topanga dies tragically in an accidental golf ball incident, Bernie goes off the spiritual deep end and tries to give away his fortune, but Alyssa will not have it. After all, she is a celebrity! Eventually Bernie is found murdered and Alyssa stands accused, resulting in the revitalization of her career!”

As a fan of Psycho Beach Party, I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us at next week’s screening. In the meantime, I was lucky enough to sit down with Bob and Beth to get the inside scoop on what is sure to be a major Festival hit!

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WIRE COVER: (818): DEATH NEVER LOOKED SO WASHED UP! Check out what they had to say: How did this film come about?

Bob: Through sheer determination mostly... and the skill of our producer, Lisa Schahet, and the grace of our actors who were willing to take on a project for the sheer thrill of it. And a slew of dedicated behind the camera talent who worked way beyond the scope of what they signed up for.

How did you get connected with writer David Michael Barret?

Bob: The script for (818) was sent to me and I knew I had to make it. There were producers attached at the time who wanted to make it for a much bigger budget than we ended up with, which probably would've been a lot easier film to make. But I stuck with it because I loved the characters and the dialogue and the world of celebrity justice it portrayed.

Can you summarize the story line for us?

Bob: The glory days of aging former TV queen Alyssa Rampart-Pillage are well behind her, and these days her on-camera presence is relegated to appearances in commercials for her husband Bernie's San Fernando Valley (area code - 818) appliance empire. When their environmental radicalist daughter Topanga dies tragically in an accidental golf ball incident, Bernie goes off the spiritual deep end and tries to give away his fortune, but Alyssa will not have it. After all, she is a celebrity!

Eventually Bernie is found murdered and Alyssa stands accused, resulting in the revitalization of her career!

Beth, how did you get involved with the film (818)?

Beth: Bob King and I have remained friends since the filming of "Psycho Beach Party". He is an important part of my life and is always very supportive of my work.

Whether I am working on stage, debuting a film, or appearing on television, Bob is always there to cheer me on. He approached me about playing Alyssa, and I of course would play any role Bob asked me to play, because we share a comic sensibility. This part is a doozy... I jumped at the chance to play it.

What did you enjoy the most about playing Alyssa?

Beth: I really had fun trying to create the glamour girl TV actress persona. I am really the total opposite of Alyssa.

I am an egghead who obsesses about politics and social issues and I tend to play down my wardrobe etc. when I am not working. Autumn, who did my hair and makeup, is a miracle worker. I really do not look like that. Also Bonnie did an amazing job with costumes on a very tight budget. Bob was very hands on in helping me create Alyssa's look and style. It was fun to be an actressy actress for the month of filming, but nice to get home to my sneakers and my back issues of "The Economist".

Can you describe your character?

Beth: Alyssa is a creature motivated almost entirely by ambition. She is defined by her fame and could never fit back into a normal life. She loves her kids and even her nutty husband, but her first priority is Alyssa. She should not be underestimated and I for one wouldn't cross her.

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How did you prepare for this role?

Beth: Bob is a stickler for rehearsal and had very specific ideas about Alyssa and the tone of the film in its entirety. When you work on a truly minuscule budget, it is important to prepare. The whole cast was very eager to put serious hours in up front. They are all amazing talented folks who really care about doing the work.

Also, as I mentioned before, inhabiting Alyssa was a physical challenge, and I had a great team behind the scenes trying to put her together.

What has been the most exciting part about filming this movie?

Bob: Probably the day that we started with a nude sex scene on a pilates machine, followed by a 2 1/2 page dialogue scene involving a mother-daughter catfight and smashing plates, and wrapped everything up with a major stunt scene involving a girl tripping on a golf ball and falling to her death down a spiral staircase. Only in the world of indie cinema!

What attracted you the most to this script?

Bob: The audaciousness of the characters and clever way they spoke. And the way that it mocks my hometown of Los Angeles and the Us Magazine celebrity culture that surrounds it.

Why do you think this film is going to be a success?

Bob: It already is! We got it made and are debuting in Competition at a major film fest. As for its commercial

Bernie (Chris Mulkey) and Alyssa Rampart-Pillage (Beth Broderick)

WIRE COVER: (818): DEATH NEVER LOOKED SO WASHED UP!

HMO Nurse

Alyssa (Beth Broderick) & Morris (Vincent Ventresca)

success, I really have no idea... but it's not exactly a bull market for true indie films, unfortunately. Still, I hope people will seek it out and find a way to see it. Or that one of my actors turns into the next Brad Pitt or Julia Roberts in the next month or two -- which actually could happen!

Beth: There are a lot of very male driven comedies out there that speak to a very limited audience. I am all for male bonding, but there is a limit to how many times I want to see the same plot played out. (818) is a truly unique film with a comic vision that feels new and fresh.

I think people will appreciate the thematic depth beneath the laughs.

independent filmmaking, you really need someone like Beth in your troop. She not only gives you her all, but she inspires the rest of the cast to do so as well. Plus she's hilarious, talented, and super-fun.

Beth: Working with Bob is exhilarating. He gives me the confidence to go out on a limb, because I know he is watching my back. He is very protective of his actors and that gives me the freedom to fly. I have warned him that I expect to be in every one of his future films. He is my John Waters and I am his Divine.

Do you think there are any obvious connections to Psycho Beach Party?

At a time when celebrities are regularly in the news for breaking the law, this movie seems pretty timely. Do you think there really is a different standard for celebrities?

Bob: Well they both have murders and are comedies.

They both have strong female leads. And they both have Andrew Levitas (George in (818)/Provaloney in PBP) with his shirt off. So, yeah, probably‌

Bob: Maybe you should ask free man Robert Blake? Or acquitted murderer OJ Simpson that question... or Lana Turner or... I could go on. The truth is, there is no "jury of peers" when you're talking about someone with that kind of fame or the resources that go with it. I'm not sure whether its the ability to hire better lawyers or juries always having "reasonable doubt" about people who've been in their living rooms, but yes, there definitely does seem to be a different standard.

Beth: Well, I think there are some similarities in tone and also in the fact that they are both nutso films with a lot of thought behind them. If you liked Psycho Beach Party you will love (818).

Who is your lawbreaker?

all

time

favorite

celebrity

Bob: I'd have to go with Lana Turner. The guy she allegedly stabbed was totally hot, and she got her own daughter to take the fall. And, even at the time, her testimony at the coroner's hearing was called her "greatest performance".

What was it like reconnecting with each other and working together again?

Bob: Watching Beth transform into Alyssa has been one of the great thrills of making this movie. Even though they are both (mostly) known for their TV work, they are really nothing like each other, which is part of the fun. In fact, if they were at all alike, we would never have been able to make this movie! If you're going into the trenches of 14 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

After spending so much time in Hollywood, which celebrity do you think is most like Alyssa and why?

The Twins urgent need to provide basic services for people and a community that embraced them.

At the recent event, there were seven of us, including me, who attended to honor the first founder Peter Avitabile.

We are the only ones left alive from that early time. I had to put the microphone down several times as tears flooded my vision. I was a terrible emcee, but it was truly moving to be there and see that our work has continued to help people after all of these years. We have come a long way from those desperate days, but the fight is not over. ONWARD! What are you most looking forward to during your visit?

Bob: To see (818) with a real audience who -- hopefully -- is there to enjoy themselves.

Beth: Food. There are terrific restaurants in Miami and I plan to eat my weight in stone crab. Please tell me that it will be in season!

Why do you think Miami is such an important market?

Bob: Because it's such a center of culture not just for this country, but also for the entire hemisphere.

Bob: I could tell you, but I still want to work with her.

What are you currently working on?

Beth: I cannot answer that because it might hurt her feelings, but believe me this lady exists.

Bob: A movie set in Florida with A LOT of gratuitous male nudity. So if you see me hanging out in gay strip clubs and such, I'm doing research!

Beth, you've done some amazing work in the HIV/AIDS community. How did that come about?

I recently hosted the 25th anniversary of MOMENTUM, a program for persons with AIDS in New York City. I was a co-founder in the mid eighties and dedicated four years of my life to defending the dignity of people with AIDS and struggling to create a support system. It was a very difficult time. Most folks were terrified of the disease and anyone who was suffering with it. A lot of young men were completely abandoned by their families and were left to die alone in NY City. Life expectancy was eight months from the point of diagnosis and there was an

Beth: Well I have the great honor to be starring in two films that are making the rounds of the Festival circuit. So I will be traveling for the next two months supporting their release. In fact I will be back in Florida soon at the Palm Beach Festival with the Indie drama, Fly Away. I loves me some Florida!

(818) Screening

Regal South Beach March 5th @ 9:15 p.m.

March 6th @ 10 p.m. www.miamifilmfestival.com

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WIRE FEATURE: SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL ARRIVES

The South Beach Wine and Food Festival has finally arrived, and we couldn’t be any more excited. As one of the most delicious festivals in Miami, The South Beach Wine and Food Festival continues to attract thousands of foodies, culinary geniuses, and wine lovers from around the world, and this year is certainly not going to be any different.

The Festival is honored to welcome back Jamie Oliver to its family-oriented program Kohl’s Fun and Fit as a Family featuring Kellogg’s Kidz Kitchen, which takes place at Jungle Island the Saturday and Sunday during the Festival. Parents and kids will have the chance to explore the Children’s Sustainable Food Garden, play sports on the beach, prepare healthy snacks in the interactive Food Lab, and watch Food Network favorites, including “We are truly excited for the 2011 Festival and very Giada De Laurentiis, Tyler Florence, and Rachael Ray, thankful to the fans, chefs, winemakers, sponsors, among others, host healthy culinary demonstrations in students, and staff who have supported us since the the Kellogg’s Kidz Kitchen. beginning,” notes Ian Schrager, who also serves as Vice President of Corporate Communications & National The iconic Amstel Light Burger Bash presented by Allen Events at Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. which Brothers, and hosted by Rachael Ray, will celebrate its hosts the Festival. “It has truly been an unforgettable fifth birthday during the Festival – bringing back the best decade and we are so pleased to have raised $10 in beer and burgers, plus the four previously crowned million to date for Florida International University. We People’s Choice Award winners (Shake Shack, Michael look forward to bringing the best names in the wine and Schlow, Spike Mendelsohn, and Michael Symon) to culinary industries to South Florida for many years to compete with their fellow chefs for bragging rights in come!”

2011. This year’s Perrier-Jouët BubbleQ presented by Allen Brothers and MIAMI magazine – the very event that The 2011 Festival features returning fan-favorite events, put the Festival on the map its first year – will be hosted including the Wine Spectator Wine Seminar series and by the grill-master himself, Bobby Flay, in its final showing Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village, and plenty as a signature Festival event. Additionally, Fontainebleau of new soirées to keep the celebration going all weekend Miami Beach presents Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best long! For its 10th year, the Festival is pleased to honor sponsored by Bank of America, which will again feature one of the world’s most revered chefs at its Tribute Dinner the finest selections in wine and culinary creations honoring Alain Ducasse presented by Bank of America of renowned chefs, and is sure to be the best yet with on Saturday, February 26. A veritable who’s who of celebrated chef Charlie Trotter in attendance. the culinary world will be in attendance to pay homage to Chef Ducasse, a chef who has earned more Michelin Once again, the Festival gathers all that glistens for an Stars than any of his colleagues. unparalleled series of brunches and dinners to keep your taste buds dancing all weekend long: Planned especially for this year, the dynamic duo of The Brilliance of France – dinner prepared by chefs Emeril Lagasse and Martha Stewart will host the Festival’s Pascal Nibaudeau (Le Pressoir d’Argent at The Regent featured 10th anniversary celebration Let Them Eat Cake Grand Hotel Bordeaux) and Jean-Marie Gautier (Le Villa presented by Ocean Drive magazine on Friday, February Eugenie at the Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz) 25 in the contemporary new space at 1111 Lincoln Dolce Brunch hosted by Gail Simmons and Michael Road. Here, no fewer than 10 pastry chefs, cake artists, White and renowned confectioners, including Margaret Braun, Barilla Interactive Lunch hosted by Bryan and Jacques Torres, and Food Network’s Duff Goldman, will Michael Voltaggio present decadent delicacies to complement the cocktails Italian in Paradise hosted by Giada De Laurentiis and Moët & Chandon Champagne that will be flowing Barilla Interactive Dinner hosted by CHOPPED stars all night long!

Ted Allen with Marc Murphy, Alex Guarnaschelli and Aarón Sánchez Food Network presents a Saturday night fête that will Wine + Dine + Design – the Festival’s ultimate dine put a South Beach spin on their popular primetime series around in Miami’s trendy Design District The Best Thing I Ever Ate! Join Master of Ceremonies Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink Brunch at Sea Duff Goldman, alongside Anne Burrell, Sunny Anderson, Paula Deen’s Down Home Cookin’ Sunday Chuck Hughes, Scott Conant, Geoffrey Zakarian, and Gospel Brunch many more Food Network, Cooking Channel and South Florida personalities at The Best Thing I Ever Ate At the The complete program for this year, tickets and Beach – where they will share their favorite dishes and more information is available online at www. cocktails found near shorelines from all over the United sobewineandfoodfest.com or by calling the box office at States.

877.762.3933.

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South Florida’s original crêperiecall that for is champagne nights in season. cAFé AT BookS & more café-like its BookS offerings dinners. of classic special prix fixeininternational

933 Lincoln Road,sandwiches, MB | 305.695.8898 French crepes, salads, and One of the most important thatlounge Books platters.

A very casual, things friendly anDiamo & Books has that sets it apart fromwait any staff. other with competent, knowledgeable 5600 Biscayne Blvd.,Miami | 305.762.5751

No need to rush here!

It’s French, afterhas all! seven-year-old pizzeria that

expanded outdoor seating with video screens and complimentary wi-fi.

Gourmet pizza is award winning and nationally recognized! additional italian menu selections include paninis, salads, soups, desserts. serves beer and wine. now serving Frankie’s philly cheese steaks! caFé at BookS & BookS

933 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.8898

one of the most important things that books & books has that sets it apart from any other chain bookstore is a wonderful personality. not only can you find the latest books and coolest magazines, now you can enjoy truly delicious and generous food in one of the most relaxed environments possible on Lincoln road. the food is really quite something, especially their miami cheese steak sandwich.

Da Leo trattoria

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350

one of the pioneers of Lincoln road, da Leo is popular spot with locals, tourists, and celebrities. Where else could you enjoy rich, tasty food, which is basic home-style pastas and meat dishes, and some of the best people-watching while dining al fresco. ask about their special prix fixe menus – one at $15.95 and 18 || wire 40 wire magazine magazine || wireweekly.com wireweekly.com

chain is athey wonderful not one atbookstore $27.50. can’tpersonality. beperiodicals beat. Full Sit, relax, peruse the numerous only with can you find the latestFumé booksthe andaservice coolest over a glass ofspecials, Pouilly or Stella bar drink too. magazines, now you delicious Artois.

Or outstanding maybe ancan herbal teatruly or Leo infusion. has been asenjoy owners and Right inkeep the heart of fabulous Española and generous food in the one of the that’s most relaxed mario careful watch. why Way neighborhood.

Outside lounge environments possible on Lincoln Road.open The this restaurant is so popular!

for nights in season. foodspecial is reallychampagne quite something, especially their

Call special fixe international miamifor Cheese Steakiiprix Sandwich.

DaviD’S caFé

dinners.

1654 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.672.8707 DA leo TrATToriA You don’t have to travel 90 miles to ALTAMAR 819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350 enjoy cuban cuisine.

Just walk over to 1223 Lincoln Road, MBof| 305.532.3061 One of the pioneers Lincolnroad Road,mall Da david’s café ii off of Lincoln Stop by onespot of with South Beach’s best Leo meridian is popular locals, tourists, on avenue for some of and the restaurants for seafood, Chef Simon celebrities.

Where else anywhere. couldasyou enjoy rich, finest cuban dishes and all Stajonovic prepares an assortment ofpastas fresh tasty food, which is basic home-style at very reasonable prices. they’re open fish dishes that showcase the best in South and hours. meat Full dishes, and some of the best 24 bar. buffets Florida seafood.

Theincredible menu changes onfora people-watching while dining al fresco. Ask those the go. regularonbasis; depending upon what chef about their special prix fixe menus – one at Simon can get his hands on that day. Our $15.95 and one atcaFé be Front Porch favorite dishes are $27.50. definitelyThey the can’t hogfish beat.

Full bar with drink specials, too.

The 1418 Ocean Drive, MBferro. | 305.531.8300 and the octopus with Delicious! service17 hasyears been of outstanding owners Leo after serving as south beach and mario keep careful watch. locals the freshest, meals in BLT STEAK @ THEimpeccable BETSY

1440 Ocean Drive, MBthis | 305.531.3934 generous portions, restaurant has DAViD’S cAFé ii it’sThe In a classtoall its own, is one nothing prove. theBetsy bestHotel for casual 1654 Ave., | 305.672.8707 of the most gorgeous dining destinations fare atMeridian any time, butMB especially for their You don’t have to travel mileswith to enjoy in South Florida.

Pair90that the breakfasts. a great menu with the most Cuban cuisine.

Just walk over to David’s delectable nibbles of BLT Steak, and you reasonable prices. you might have to Café IIone off fabulous of Lincoln Road onworth meridian have restaurant.

Samuel wait, but be patient, it’small wellChef the Avenueasfor some of the the finest dishes Gorenstein mans helm, consistently effort Larry, michael, andCuban dawn cater producing dishes would even tempt a anywhere.

And all that at very reasonable prices. to your every need.

hardcore vegetarian. The bone-in prime rib

joey’S

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488

swing by this new artsy italian eatery for some incredibly authentic italian nibbles as chef ivo takes you on a culinary journey through the veneto region of italy. the mista salad is a great way to kick off your meal and the spaghetti alle vongole – spaghetti with mussels – or the butter flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to enjoy as an entrée. konexPreSS

445 Espanola Way, MB | 305.420.5809

brazil’s most well known Japanese brazilian restaurant concept is now in miami beach, and offering an assortment of delicious Kones, sushi rolls, sakes, and salads. swing by for sake-bomb Fridays starting nov. 20th at 6 p.m. for $5 sake-bombs and free sushi.

La SanDwicherie

229 14th St., MB | 305.532.8934

sandwiches and salads along with fruit smoothies and shakes is what you will find at this landmark sandwich shop on 14th street between Washington and collins. it’s one of the best places on the beach for an outstanding selection of light fare with a French flair. very reasonable prices. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery until 10 p.m.

They’re open 24and hours.

Full bar. sampler Incredible is phenomenal, the seafood is buffets for those on the go.ever experienced. unlike anything you’ve Guaranteed!

FroNT Porch cAFé

CAFÉ AT BOOKS &| BOOKS 1418 Ocean Drive, MB 305.531.8300

933 MB |South 305.695.8898 After Lincoln 17 yearsRoad, of serving Beach locals the One of the most important that Books freshest, impeccable meals in things generous portions, & has that it apart fromIt’s any thisBooks restaurant has sets nothing to prove. theother best chain bookstore a wonderful personality. for casual fare at isany time, but especially for Not can you latest books and their only breakfasts.

A find greatthe menu with the most coolest magazines, enjoy reasonable prices. You now might you have can to wait, but truly delicious and worth generous foodasinLarry, one be patient, it’s well the effort of the most environments michael, and relaxed Dawn cater to your everypossible need.

on Lincoln Road. The food is really quite something, especially their Miami Cheese Joey’S Steak Sandwich.

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 DA LEO TRATTORIA Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for 819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350 some authentic Italian nibbles as Da Leoincredibly hosts it’s very popular Bubbly Brunch chef Ivo takes you a culinary journey every Sunday.

This on year’s selections are through the and Veneto region of Italy.the Thecareful mista tantalizing delightful under salad isofa Managing great way to kick offMarcos. your meal and watch Director Enjoy the spaghettiFrench alle vongole – spaghetti with pancakes, toast, and more, plus mussels – or drink the butter flied beef all you can champagne fortenderloin $32 per are two tasty to enjoy as an entrée.Da person, with dishes alla carte menu options.

Leo is a popular spot with locals, tourists, koNexPreSS and celebrities who love their delicious 445 Espanola Way, MB food, complemented by| 305.420.5809 some of the best people-watching while dining al fresco on Brazil’s most well known Japanese Brazilian Lincoln Road.

restaurant concept DAVID’S CAFÉ IIis now in miami Beach,

and offering assortment of delicious 1654 Meridianan Ave., MB | 305.672.8707 Kones, sushi rolls, and miles salads.

You don’t have to sakes, travel 90 to Swing Cuban by for Sake-Bomb starting enjoy cuisine. JustFridays walk over to David’s Café of for Lincoln Road Mall nov. 20th at II6 off p.m. $5 sake-bombs on Avenue for some of the finest andMeridian free sushi.

Cuban dishes anywhere. And all at very reasonable prices. They’re open 24 hours. lA SANDwicherie Full buffets for those on the 229 bar.

14thIncredible St., MB | 305.532.8934 go.

Sandwiches and salads along with fruit

smoothies and shakes is what you will find

DE RODRIGUEZ CUBA ON at this landmark sandwich shopOCEAN on 14th

101 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.673.3763 Street between Washington and Collins.

As one of Miami’s most celebrated culinary It’s one of the best places on the Beach geniuses, chef Douglas Rodriguez always for an outstanding selection of light fare attracts a fabulous crowd of foodies, who with can’t a French Very prices. just get flair. enough ofreasonable his contemporary open from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery take on traditional Cuban bites. We just until 10 can’t getp.m. enough of the snapper and conch

ceviche, Cuban malanga Tacos, and the mAyA TAPAS & Grill oxtail.

The Sangria Sunday brunch with 809 Lincolnsangria Road, MB 305.538.0058 unlimited is |also an event you Lincolnwant Road jamaspacked some won’t to is miss, you getwith to try six of the trendiest to grab a bite different signature places sangrias! in SoBe, and maya is definitely one of

FRONT PORCH them. Indulge in CAFÉ their succulent steak

1458 Ocean on Drive, | 305.531.8300 and imbibe oneMB of their fantastic wine After 17 years serving South aBeach selections – all of while enjoying front locals the offreshest, mealsand in row seat miami’simpeccable most beautiful generous glamorous!portions, this restaurant has

nothing to prove. It’s the best for casual

wire mAGAziNe’S liST oF DiNiNG PleASUreS

The Florida! menu features a number of delicious in South It has coffee, deserts, light PAlAce chy’Sfare at any time, but especially for their MICHY’S dishes kebabs, breakfasts. great| menu with the most 6927 Biscayne Blvd., Miami | 305.759.2001 food,Mediterranean a fabulous bar, and including the best music, 1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 27 Biscayne Blvd., A Miami As gay oneowned of the members of the and falafel.

You cantime nowfor also reasonable prices. You might have to wait, all ofhoummus, which guarantee a fantastic Landmark andoriginal operated restaurant 5.759.2001 Mango Michelle Bernstein grabout breakfast at Pasha’s well. Located but the be patient, well worth as barinfamous hanging with miami’s hottestas coolsters and on Ocean Drive Gang, and 12th Street with one of originalit’smembers of the theeffortand is popular known for herand exceptional use An of local on alike.

Lincoln Road, restaurant also and Dawn cater to your tourists This is wherethe the hip hangs out a simple, tourist locals’ menu. amous Larry, mangoMichael, Gang, michelle Bernstein ingredients and flavors. Michy’s showcases features outdoor dining for great people every need from their new location.

American bistro flair still with one of the best with the hipper. known for her exceptional use of local Michelle’s fantastic talent with a simple; watching, and you can either take the food 8-ounceyet, burgers on the Beach.

The from bar has gredients and flavors. michy’s showcases delicious menu ranging fantastic to go or have a nice sit down dinner.

JOEY’S long been a meeting point for American and SoykA chelle’s fantastic talent with a simple; 2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 fried chicken and watermelon Greek salad international gay tourists. Stop by any day of 5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | , delicious menu ranging from fantastic Swing by this new artsy Italian eatery for to her succulent steak dishes. No matter SEGAFREDO 305.759.3117 theasweek – open 10a.m until 2 a.m. andto be ed chicken and watermelon Greek salad what you from choose, everything is sure 1040 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.0047 some incredibly authentic Italian nibbles scrumptious.

Famed restauranteur Soyka’s namesake serving food until 10p.m. her succulent steak dishes. no matter This is the mostmark fun and authentic Italian chef Ivo takes you on a culinary journey restaurant at 55th and Biscayne.

Great array at you through choose, the everything is sure to be café in South Florida!

It has coffee, deserts, Veneto region of Italy. The PALACE of affordable food”bar, for and everyone. umptious. light food,“comfort a fabulous the best mista salad is a great way to kickPAShA’S off 1200Road, OceanMB Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 Comfortable andofinviting. a great local 900 Lincoln | 305.673.3919 music, all which Draws guarantee a fantastic your meal and the spaghetti alle vongole Landmark gay owned and operated time for hanging out with Miami’s hottest who like to hang out at 55th Street As one of miami’s healthiest places to grab crowd SS yiP– spaghetti with mussels – or the butter restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive and coolsters and alike. This is and where Station adjacent to tourists the restaurant.

Food a bite, Pasha’s has with become a staple amongtourist 61 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.534.5488 flied beef tenderloin are two tasty dishes to 12th Street a simple, popular theare hip well hangs out a with thenow hipper. as an entrée. service worth visit. featuring South Beach’s trendiest dieters.

The menu ot evenenjoy Cameron Diaz could have a and locals’ menu. An American bistro The news Lounge! featuresflair a number of delicious ccessful and long-lasting restaurant in this still with one ofmediterranean the best 8-ounce SOYKA SANDWICHERIE including hoummus, ace, butLA leave it to the intrepid Jennie Yip dishes burgers on kebabs, the Beach.

The bar and has long 5556 N.E.4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117 229 14th MBKong-style | 305.532.8934 a meeting American SPriS falafel. been You can now alsopoint grabforbreakfast at and defy gravity.

This St., hong Chinese Famed restauranteur Mark Soyka’s Sandwiches and salads along with fruit gay on tourists.

Stop by any 731 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.2020 as well. Located Lincoln Road, the day taurant has easily become a very popular Pasha’s international namesake restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. smoothies and shakes is what you will find of the week – open from 10a.m until 2 a.m. pizzeria Tiramesu. ot right off Lincoln Road in a very short restaurant also features outdoor dining for The Great array restaurant of affordableof “comfort food” at this landmark sandwich shop on 14th and serving food until 10p.m. the best Comfortable Italian pizzaand on South great people watching, and you can either Absolutely e. They serve truly scrumptious homemade for everyone. inviting.

Street between Washington and Collins.

Beach prepared by alocal greatcrowd pizza who chef.like An to take the food to go or have a nice sit down onton or hot and sour soup; really good Draws a great It’s one of the best places on the Beach for PASHA’S selection of white pizzas, too. You to dinner. 900 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.3919 excellent oo Shu pork and mongolian beef; and a hang out at 55th Street Station adjacent an outstanding selection of light fare with a can the alsorestaurant. order your pizza a whole rific variety of flair. vegetable, rice, and noodle Food and with service are well French Very reasonable prices. Open As one of Miami’s healthiest places to wheat crust.

Sandwiches and salads SeGAFreDo hes. Don’t forget their awesome Shanghai worth a visit.

Now featuring The are News from 9 a.m. to 5 a.m. and delivery until grab a bite, Pasha’s has become a staple Lounge! excellent.

Best bet for an after movie light | 305.673.0047 press $8.88 amongRoad, SouthMBBeach’s trendiest dieters.

10 p.m.lunch specials – over 45 1040 Lincoln dinner or late night snack.

This is the most fun and authentic Italian café oices!

CHEAP CHIC

Introducing our new half portion sharing menu.

CHINA GRILL 19 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

SOUTH BEACH • at Washington & Fifth • $9 valet parking

TiDeS SoUTh BeAch SPRIS 731Ocean Lincoln Drive, Road, MB | 305.604.5070 305.673.2020 1220 TheGonzalo pizzeria restaurant Chef Rivera combinesofhisTiramesu. mexican Absolutely best Italian pizza on South roots with thethe carribean flavor of miami to Beachanprepared by a greatforpizza chef. create exceptional menu The Tides An excellent selection of white pizzas, South Beach’s restaurant La marea. We too. You can also order your pizza with a suggest off your meal with and the lobster wholekicking wheat crust.

Sandwiches salads corndogs or crab cakes and enjoying Chef are excellent. Best bet for an after movie Gonzalo’s delicious Angussnack. filet Rossini or light dinner or late night fantastic yellowtail snapper for an entrée.

TIRAMESU

721 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.532.4538 TirAmeSU A Lincoln thrivingRoad, Italian on Lincoln 721 MB restaurant | 305.532.4538 great serviceonand excellent, A Road thrivingwith Italian restaurant Lincoln Road moderately priced Northern Italian with great service and excellent, moderately specialties. Expansive menu – open for priced Italianwith specialties.

Expansive lunchnorthern and dinner very friendly staff menu open for lunch and dinner with very and–management. friendly staff and management.

VAN DYKE CAFÉ

846Dyke LincolncAFé Road, MB | 305.534.3600 VAN What News Café Ocean Drive, the 846 Lincoln Road, MBis| to 305.534.3600 Vannews Dyke is to Lincoln Road. Drive, Another What Café is to Ocean thehuge Van success for Mark who hassuccess now Dyke is to Lincoln Road.Soyka Another huge partnered with Graziano Sbroggio to run for mark Soyka who has now partnered with the place. Always packed offering some of Graziano to run the Always the bestSbroggio people-watching on place. the Road and packed offering some of lunch, the bestor people-watching a quick breakfast, dinner. Also oncheck the Road and a quick lunch, or out Upstairs at thebreakfast, Van Dyke for an dinner.

Alsoofcheck at the Van Dyke evening Jazzout andUpstairs entertainment. for an evening of Jazz and entertainment.

THIS WEEK THURSDAY, February 24 BUCK15 LOUNGE: As one of the longest running Thursday night soirees, Simple Life Thursdays is always the place to be. DJ Daisy D. spins fun hip-hop, ‘80s, rock, and dance hits, with Chyna as Door Goddess. 707 Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach.

night at TWIST. Enjoy seven different bars, DJ Michael Tank, stiff drinks, beautiful dancers, and, of course, the only place where there’s “Never a cover...Always a groove.”

SCORE: The Penny Back Boyz host the weekly Friday night party Filthy Gorgeous Fridays with DJ Mac spinning a true open format and Score’s hottest Go-Go boys on CHA LORDS: the speaker boxes.

CHA CHA ROOSTER @ THE LORDS: It’s scandalIt’s the Meeting of the Lords, a scandalous Lords SATURDAY, February 26 ous new dinner party hosted by TP Lords and starts and her gaggle of minions. Show starts at at 8 8 p.m. p.m.

ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse

that hangover with some unlimited mimoMOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 sas and bloody Mary’s, look no further p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a night with than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food the ladies, as Pandora Events hosts Sweet and delicious libations in one of the most with $3 beer specials all night long and beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach music by DJ Zehno. Located near the has to offer. corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

DISCOTEKKA: Downtown Miami’s PALACE: Palace hosts Cabaret Thursdays only gay dance party delivers one hell with solo performances by the incompara- of a shindig every Saturday night as ble Tiffany Fantasia. Show starts at 6 p.m. Discotekka divas Vegas Dion, TP Lords, $3 domestic beer and $11 draft pitcher Sasha Sky, and Victoria Sky entertain specials all night. and mesmerize the crowd while international DJs keep up the beat. Doors open SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio at 11 p.m. 950 NE 2nd Ave. www. and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic discotekka.com pass by as you and your friends chill and enjoy great music. Tonight Score hosts the MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from steamiest Thursday night soiree with fab 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by FLASH beats by DJ Pride paired with an incred- Saturdays with the hottest music videos ible crowd of delicious partygoers. 727 and visual entertainment by VJ Chris Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

Racine till 3 a.m. with $7 Belvedere cocktails all night and free Herradura Tequila TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous night shots from delicious shot boys. Located at TWIST with seven different bars, DJ Just near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

Oliver, stiff drinks, and beautiful dancers.

And if you’re looking for some hot papis, PALACE: Enjoy a special day of drag DJ Adora will be hosting Sabroso in Bar shows, great food, and stiff cocktails, 5! “Never a cover... Always a groove.” as The Palace Bar hosts Drag Madness with Tiffany Fantasia and her gaggle of FRIDAY, February 25 performers! Heels hit the pavement at 6 p.m. sharp!

CHA CHA ROOSTER @ THE LORDS: From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Lords will intro- SCORE: Tonight is Score’s weekly Bigger duce their new weekly happy hour, Saturdays, the largest gay dance party on “Bottoms Up,” for everyone who loves the Beach with beats by international DJ a stiff, but inexpensive cocktail after a sensations, and performances by CircX. long week at work. Enjoy $4 drinks and 727 Lincoln Road. tantalizing small plate specials from Cha Cha Rooster, while a DJ will fill the bar TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy with vintage vinyl tunes, 80s hits, and and the locals from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Motown classics. everything. Come tonight and enjoy a full house of hot men and some incredHYPE: Tonight Edison Farrow hosts his ible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a cover...

Friday night sensation, Hype, with free Always a groove.”

Finlandia vodka cocktails from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. and music by DJ Smeejay. 721 SUNDAY, February 27 Lincoln Lane. www.sobesocialclub.com ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse MOVA: It’s @MOVA Fridays with $6 that hangover with some unlimited mimoFinlandia vodka cocktails and a late night sas and bloody Mary’s, look no further 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m., than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food as well as fab beats by hot DJs. Located and delicious libations in one of the most near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan. beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer.

PALACE: Drag Madness is the place to be to see the hottest Friday night shows DA LEO: As one of Lincoln Road’s

by Latrice Royale, Champagne Bordeaux, first Italian restaurants, Da Leo always and Noel Leon beginning at 6 p.m. You attracts a crowd of locals and regular never know what these girls are gonna visitors, and that is no more evident than do, so get there early! its weekly Sunday brunch. A two-course menu paired with unlimited mimosas and TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous champagne. Corks pop at 12 p.m. sharp!

20 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

THE LORDS: If you love great food paired with free drinks, Punch Brunch is the way to go, as Cha Cha Rooster at The Lords offers a two-course meal paired with two free cocktails for only $25.

Afterwards, enjoy cocktails poolside for their weekly Punch T-dance.

in the Frolic Lounge for his signature mix of pop and the top 20. Also check out the fabulous men of Gaiety in the Bungalow Bar starting at 10 p.m. and DJ Bryan Zero’s fab beats on the main dance floor.

LUX: Edison Farrow, along with Omar Gonzalez, hosts South Florida’s hottest new dance party at one of the most luxurious venues in South Beach. Hot boys, great drinks, and fab music! Doors open at 10 p.m. and the party continues all night long. 1439 Washington Ave.

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. followed by Mova’s weekly Drag Bingo, hosted by Geraldine and serving as a benefit for Care Resource from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. with $5 Finlandia cocktails and half priced cocktails from 11 p.m. to midnight. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

MOVA: After a long weekend of parties and boys, it’s time to relax and enjoy $4 SUNDAYs at MOVA with half price cocktails till 9 p.m. and $4 Finlandia vodka cocktails all day long. No cover.

PALACE: Swing by the only gay bar on Ocean Drive for one of SoBe’s most unique and over-the-top brunches, as some of South Florida’s most fabulously frocked fellows take to the sidewalk to perform for hundreds of onlookers during Brunchic. Two seatings: 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. Afterwards, check out the sexiest Sunday T Dance in SoBe. 1200 Ocean Drive.

TUESDAY, March 1

PALACE: Better than ever before on Ocean Drive and 12th Street, try it for lunch or a late afternoon snack, or just hang out at the bar with the locals. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Palace is sure to have it!

SCORE: It’s Planeta Macho, the hottest Latin Party in Miami Beach, featuring incredible Latin beats by award winner DJ George Ferrero, Pelu Rivero on drums, amazing shows by Miami’s best female impersonators, and the hottest crowd in town. Don’t miss this party – it’s South Florida’s Best Latin Party!

SCORE: It’s Panty Raid, an afternoon party for women who love women, followed by Score’s weekly karaoke night hosted by Tiffany Fantasia. With over 2,000 titles to choose from, you are sure to find a song to inspire your inner star.

Grab a cocktail and belt out your favorite number.

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight Dustin Reffca hosts his weekly party, Fun House Tuesdays. With DJ Daisy D working the turntables on the main dance floor, you can be the beats will be hot and the dance floor packed. $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Ice Teas all night long. Never a cover… Always a groove.

TWIST: 2-4-1 happy hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Afterwards, some of the most scandalous drag performers will hit the stage upstairs, while DJ Paulie works it out on the main dance floor.

At TWIST: “Never a cover...Always a groove.

WEDNESDAY, March 2

MONDAY, February 28 KILL YOUR IDOL: Dustin Reffca presents Glitter Box Mondays with Manic Monday beats by DJ Smeejay. $1 PBR Beers and $4 vodka drinks. Doors open at 10 p.m.

222 Espanola Way, Miami Beach.

MOVA: MOVA: Tonight Tonight isis SHOUT!, SHOUT!, aa hot new karaoke karaoke night, night, where where everyone everyone can can be a star star or or at at least least try try to to be. be. And And ifif you need aa little little liquid liquid courage, courage, there there will will be half priced priced drinks drinks all all night night long. long. Located near the the corner corner of of Lincoln Lincoln and and Michigan.

Michigan.

PALACE: Stop in for comfort food at lunch or dinner. Special bon voyage cocktail specials all day. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Happy Monday, where all drinks, well and domestic, are half-price from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. No cover.

TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks ‘till 9 p.m. Then it’s “I’m A Local” night, with $3 drinks for anyone with TWIST’s “I’m A Local” I.D. all night long. Join Nathan 21 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

THE LORDS: There’s no better way to spend hump day than with a fabulous happy hour. Join Adora as she hosts Gettin’ Lucky with Adora. $5 Cha Cha margarits, $6 Finlandia cocktails, and $5 domestics from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

MOVA: Stop by for MOVA’s weekly College Night Wednesdays, hosted by the Penny Back Boyz. While DJ Bryan Zero works the turntables, enjoy a $1 Finlandia cocktails from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. followed by $4 Finlandia Cocktails all night long. Located on the corner of Michigan and Lincoln.

PALACE: Stop by the Beach House to enjoy one of Palace’s signature cocktails.

1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Come and spend a pleasant evening on one of Score’s outdoor couches as they host Martini Madness Night.

A half price Happy Hour runs till 9 p.m.

TWIST: It’s time to hit the stage as Sean Brady hosts the Sean Brady Show.

Karaoke and tons of entertainment all night long. After getting your jam on, head over to the main dance floor to snag some beats from DJ Maximus 3000.

Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. with 2-4-1 on everything. “Never a cover...

Always a groove.”

TOP TRAX: RICKY MARTIN: MUSICA + ALMA + SEXO

Since I started writing Top Trax almost three years ago, I’ve reviewed all kinds of American music for you— Dance, Pop, R&B, Rap, Rock. I’ve even featured some of the many talented DJs and recording artists living right here in South Florida. But I’ve never featured any Latin artists. Pretty ironic considering Miami is home to some of the hottest Latin music in the world. So I’ve decided to bust my Latin music cherry this week with the help of Latin music’s hottest homo, Ricky Martin.

It’s no secret that Ricky Martin was born to entertain.

His career started when he joined the Latin boy-band Menudo in the early 80s and then went on to star in several musical theater productions and television shows.

In 1995 he switched his focus back to music; releasing his international breakthrough album A Medio Vivir followed by Vuelve just a couple of years later. But it wasn’t until he performed the World Cup anthem "La Copa de la Vida" at the 1998 American Grammy Awards that the rest of the world got a taste of Puerto Rico’s hottest export.

As magazine covers gracing Ricky’s face began to pile up in every queen’s bathroom, rumors about his sexuality started to overshadow his music. So it wasn’t long before the questionable crooner retreated from the American spotlight and quietly returned to his Latin roots. In 2008 Ricky’s “daddy” status became legit with the birth of his twin boys, Matteo and Valentino. It was through them that he finally gained the courage to come out to the world last year announcing: "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am." So now that it’s all finally out in the open and we’ve had some time to recover from the (ehem) shock, you might be wondering what to expect from Ricky’s ninth studio album.

For starters, he co-wrote every track, hooking up once again with longtime collaborators Desmond Child and Claudia Brant. To be honest, I’ve never been a huge fan of Latin pop. But listening to Musica + Alma + Sexo (M.A.S.) may actually pull me out of my own musical closet.

Ricky gets the adrenaline pumping right off the bat with the pseudo title track "Más", a dance floor anthem about loving and enjoying life. The catchy hook and high-energy baseline make me wonder why it wasn’t picked as the first single. But I’m guessing the similarities to his Grammy show smash may have something to do with it. Next he slows down the BPM a bit (but not the energy) with the help of Puerto Rican reggaeton duo 22 | wire magazine | wireweekly.com

BY DJ FR8-O

Wisin & Yandel on the haunting confessional “Frio”.

And if you ever wondered what a lazy day on the beach with that special someone sounds like, "Lo Mejor de Mi Vida Eres Tú" is the answer. The easy breezy duet with Natalia Jiménez also appears in English as “The Best Thing About Me Is You” featuring the soulful vocals of Joss Stone. Both versions were released as the first singles in their perspective markets. However, the Spanish version did much better grabbing the #1 spot on Billboard’s Latin Charts, while the English version only peaked at #74.

The dancey yet bittersweet “Te Vas” is an optimistic goodbye seamlessly blended into the next track – the power ballad "Tú Y Yo", which shows us the more soulful side of Ricky. "Cántame Tu Vida" focuses on Ricky’s Puerto Rican roots featuring wind instruments, acoustic guitars, and bongos thumping out a light salsa beat. The dark "Te Busco Y Te Alcanzo" is by far my favorite track.

The haunting piano intro and almost whispering vocals slowly build up to an explosion of angst you’d normally expect from artists like Marc Anthony or Juanes.

"Será Será" is probably my least favorite track of this collection. The opening chant sounds like a rip-off of Whitney Houston’s “Million Dollar Bill” and not in a good way, but I guess they can’t all be winners.

Thankfully redemption was achieved with the pop/rock track "No Te Miento". It’s a very unexpected sound for Ricky (at least for me), but he pulls it off nicely. The album closes out with what I call the coming out song, "Basta ya". Ricky’s big announcement may not have come as a shock to most of us, but I dare you to hold back the waterworks while listening to this track. The combination of brilliant writing and honest vocals could easily snag him another Grammy. Do they make those in pink?

You can definitely hear a difference between Ricky’s past music and his post-outing material. Despite the over-population of “safe” tracks, M.A.S. is one of the most enjoyable Latin albums I’ve ever heard. Just be warned: romance seems to dominate the overall theme of the album, which leans more towards pop than the traditional Latin sound. So if you’re looking for some new material to play at your next Quinceñera, you’re outta luck.

If you’re a DJ, producer or artist and would like your song, album or remix featured in TOP TRAX, gimme a shout at alfredo@wireweekly.com.

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