Wire Magazine Issue #50, 2011: 2011 Guide to Delicious Dining

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ISSUE #50 | 12/15/11

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Thursday, December 15th , 2011 THE MDGLCC PRESENTS THE LGBT HOLIGAY CELEBRATION & TOY DRIVE Come to the Miami Beach LGBT Visitor’s Center December 15th from 6-9 p.m. Admission for guests is one unwrapped toy benefitting the Miami Beach Police Toy Drive. Come and enjoy free food courtesy of BeachWitch.com and complimentary 42Below Vodka cocktails. Dj Myguel will be spinning with an appearance

by Santa Claus and special surprises. RSVP requested at 305.673.4440 or mdglcc@ bellsouth.net

LGBT Visitor Center Activities 1130 Washington Avenue • Miami Beach, FL 33139 NEW AT THE LGBT VISITOR Receive a fabulous Rainbow Beach towel with every $15 tax deductible contribution to the MDGLCC Foundation. Call 305.397.8914 or e-mail cindy@gogaymiami.com

12 JAN

LBT CAREER ENHANCEMENT WORKSHOP

Thursday, January 12, 2012 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

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SPECIAL OFF-SITE EVENT

14 JAN

TASTE OF MIAMI FUNDRAISER

Rescheduled to January 14, 2012 $75 in advance/$100 at the door For tickets & sponsorship info please call 305.397.8914 or email cindy@thecenergysolution.com

ALL WIRED UP

BY THOMAS BARKER

WIRE MAGAZINE’S ANNUAL DINING GUIDE One of the best parts about living in South Florida is all of the incredible dining destinations we get to enjoy year round. Over the past decade South Florida’s culinary world seems to have just exploded into a gastronomical haven of sorts, and I personally can’t get enough.

Of course, in a place as trendy as South Florida restaurants seem to come and go as quickly as a summer rain, which can often make it difficult to keep up with the latest trends in dining. This is why we dedicate at least one issue a year to all of the amazing restaurants we’ve discovered throughout the year, as well as a few of the mainstays that have been able to stand the test of time in our Annual Dining Guide.

Of all the restaurants listed however, there are a few that I would really like to highlight as my personal top picks!

most talented culinary artists in Miami, and her restaurant continues to showcase her wonderful creations.

ensure the restaurant is not only gorgeous but also offers one of the most exquisite and unique menus in South Florida.

This past week, I was also reminded of another dining destination that has become the epicenter of food fabulosity in the Design District, Michael’s Genuine. Since opening the restaurant, chef Michael Schwartz has not only improved the quality of his food, but has built somewhat of a Michael’s Genuine Empire, going from a one off restaurant to recently opening a location in Grand Cayman as well as aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. It seems people just can’t get enough of Michael’s delicious delights.

With the help of chef Todd Erickson, Haven Lounge offers an assortment of small bites that are all sensational. And if you’re also someone who enjoys a stiff cocktail, Haven Lounge definitely delivers with its 10-ounce martinis!

This year there have also been a few restaurants that have worked their way into the hearts and stomachs of the foodie community. One new chic eatery that has certainly made its mark among Miami’s dining elite is Haven Lounge on Lincoln Road.

In our dining guide, you will get the chance to learn more about Vida and Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau. I first experienced Vida during one of Wire Magazine’s Traveling Brunches, where 75 of our readers joined Wire Magazine for an incredible meal that featured fresh lobster tail, unlimited mimosas, meat carving stations, sushi, and so much more.

In terms of mainstay restaurants, I just cannot get enough of the incredible food from the Café at Books & Books. As one of the most local eateries in Miami Beach, the Café at Books & Books always delivers a consistent meal that is not only delicious but also good for you. I am a big fan of their skirt steak salad.

The restaurant had a soft opening this past summer and has received nothing but high acclaim from local, national, and international food critics. As someone who cannot stand restaurants that try to be lounges and vice versa, I wasn’t so sure what to think when I first heard of the restaurant concept from Haven executive chef Todd Erickson. I’ve always felt that a restaurant should be a restaurant and a bar… well, a bar.

Another restaurant that has continued to prove itself time and time again is Michy’s on 69th and Biscayne Boulevard. As one of the original members of the South Florida “Mango Gang”, Michelle Bernstein is by far one of the

To my delight, Haven Lounge has proven me wrong. It seems all of the lounge restaurant concepts that have come and gone in South Florida were just not doing it right. Haven Lounge owner Michael Boles has spared no expense to

As a dining destination, there is no place like the Fontainebleau. The beautifully renovated resort hosts at least 12 restaurants and lounges – each showcasing its very own dining concept.

As for Hakkasan, the beautiful Asian infused décor paired with the fantastic menu have made it one of the hottest restaurants in South Florida.

Now these may be just a few of my favs, but of course there is so much more to experience here – most of which you will find listed in our dining guide, so take a moment to check out our Guide and begin to plan your culinary journey through South Florida!

Cheers!

WIRE STAFF

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PUBLISHERS’ CORNER wow!

iT’S BeeN A yeAr? JoiN

BY RAFA CARVAJAL

IS PRINT DEAD?

This week and last week have probably events and Steve also noted something really profound for my business, “When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, Ex been the busiest weeks ever for Thomas parade, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to his poetic touch.

This was in the late 1960s, before personalwe comput-ar and I working onlife withwire magazine. why Many products and businesses have died as Apple and ers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors, and other tech companies bred life into new technologies. Polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback form, 35 years before Google came it was idealistic, and overflowing with use neat toolsas Remember the Walkman and Sony?For How about Why? athe couple ofalong:very good can now almost dead iconic Kodak - whose cameras and and great notions.” film captured my life growing up with my family and friends in Costa Rica?

We at Wire plan to “Stay Hungry.

Stay Foolish,” so Wireand Media Group can They have either died or will soon. reasons: We have been working times continue growing and evolving in this ever-changing world of ours.

Will the same happen to print? I don’t know the answer to that, but my hypothFeel free to stop us on the streets of Miami and the Beaches and share your esis is that it will not yet. However, print will for certain continue to be chal-producing very hard on our second thoughts and ideas with Wire Magazine. We welcome your feedback and lenged by new technologies such as the iPad and other tablets, the iPhone suggestions to continue providing great lifestyle content for our readers! and other smartphones, the ever evolving web, and technologies that will for everas the Pride collector’s edition of We also sure appear in the coming years. Therefore, owner and publisher of Remember to live your life to the fullest, Wire Magazine striving to deliver great content to you, our readers, I stay awake late at night sometimes thinking about what I need to do differently to Rafa wire magazineFor The – Publishers that we think you welcome y stay current and relevant.

If my business thrives, Wire Magazine will live on for another 25 years. It will Rafa Carvajal: rafa@wireweekly.com willStevereally enjoy reading through. In Pool Par also eventually outlive me, like Apple outlived Jobs. For that to happen, Thomas Barker: thomas@wireweekly.com I need to understand what is happening in my industry and constantly adapt and change to stay alive. That is what I have been working on in preparation dition, have been non-stop on the first ever decided to for 2012. we Even though we arealso a small business – andworking not part of a larger media conglomerate – we still have to evolve to thrive. Remember when Apple was so rotten people thought it was going to die? Well it didn’t, and today it ficial Gay year’s Prid stands as King of the Hill.Pride Pool Party, which Wire magazine In 2012 you will see the implementation of several new growth strategies and l host Saturday, April 17th atgoalthe hotel Victor with have fun technologyon initiatives at Wire Magazine and Wire Media Group. Our is to deliver the best content possible to you through the means you prefer to use. That will definitely include print, the web, social media, mobile, and nlandia Vodka and herradura compleme events. Wire also needs the continued support of our readers, our advertisers, Tequila as sponsors. and everyone who contributes every week to making what we do happen. I never take that support for granted, and I am always very appreciative for main stage it. So thank you for providing it, and please continue to help us grow and improve as we strive to put our limited resources to best use so Wire can live long and prosper. eally is hard to believe that a year has already gone by since we for some a As Steve Jobs said in his now famous speech, “No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death blished the wefirst ever Pride Collector’s Edition of Wire magazine, from 1 p.m is the destination all share.

No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now that isis you, definitely the isbecome once again taking place in miik will the new but someday not too long case. from now, youPride will gradually the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.” ami Beach and we that all our readers in complimen I believe print won’t die,this but weSaturday must learn to co-exist and thrive in a hope completely new environment driven by new technologies. In his speech Steve Jobs reminded us that, “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s ami and Fort lauderdale a chance to enjoy this ticket purc life. Don’t be trapped by dogma - which is living with the will results ofhave other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own 222 NE 25th Street. Suite 106. Miami 33137. Enter on NE 2nd Avenue inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and 305 573 3080 12-8 Sat 11-8 Sun 12-6 ek’s 2010 Pride Collector’s Edition. We couldn’t have Mon-Fri gotten e without all your support, and the support of our advertisers, make sure Business is like life, so death is part of the equation.

In his 2005 Stanford commencement speech, Steve Jobs spoke about death. As a big fan of Apple products and owner of lots of them, I have great admiration for what Steve Jobs did and how Apple has changed my life – for better or for worse.

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intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

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SATURDAY NIGHTS @ TWIST PHOTOS BY HENRY PEREZ

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WIRE COVER: WIRE MAGAZINE’S 2011 GUIDE TO DELICIOUS DINING

100 Montaditos

3252 Buena Vista Ave., Suite #104, Miami 1502 – 1504 Washington Ave., MB www.100montaditos.com

660 @ The Angler’s

660 Washington Ave., MB | 305.534.9600

with its incredible dishes. Under the careful eye of executive chef Paula DaSilva, 1500o offers some of the freshest and tastiest dining options in town. Some of our favorites have been the charbroiled skirt steak with olive oil whipped potatoes, as well as the roasted Florida swordfish with fingerling potatoes. Of course their desserts are absolutely outstanding as well!

Bar-B-Cue Beach

1555 Washington Ave., MB | 305.538.7201 As one of South Beach’s most romantic dining destinations, 660 @ The Angler’s is most certainly the place to enjoy a gorgeous evening with that special someone. To top it off, executive chef Giorgio Rapicavoli has created a fantastic menu that ranges from a variety of Mediteranean nibbles to down home Southern cuisine. We especially love 660 @ The Angler’s for Saturday and Sunday brunch!

1500o @ The Eden Roc

4525 Collins Ave., MB | 305.674.5594 100 Montaditos was born in Andalusia, in the south of Spain, in 2001. Inspired originally by XIX Century Spanish taverns, 100 Montaditos restaurants offer a variety of 100 different montaditos, made with top quality ingredients. A montadito is generally food served on a slice of baguette, although the bread often pales in significance to what’s inside! Montaditos originated in the Basque area of the north of Spain and are generally enjoyed as bar snacks with a beer or glass of wine. Every Wednesday you can enjoy ALL FOR $1 – a fabulous way to sample their menu.

As one of the few restaurants in South Florida that features creative and seasonal cuisine that relies heavily on local resources, 1500o continually wows its patrons

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Okay, so South Beach is not the first place that comes to mind when you think of good Bar-B-Cue, and it may not even be the 10th place, but, believe it or not, we’ve discovered one of the most authentic Bar-B-Cue eateries in the country, and it is surprisingly located in the heart of South Beach. Bar-B-Cue Beach offers some of the best BarB-Cued cuts of beef and chicken you can’t find anywhere else. That paired with some fried pickles, pulled pork, and, oh yes, CORN BREAD, this place just can’t be beat!

WIRE COVER: WIRE MAGAZINE’S 2011 GUIDE TO DELICIOUS DINING Café @ Books & Books

927 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.8898 As a South Florida local, it is important to find those few restaurants that really do cater to the local flavor. Since the Café @ Books and Books opened, Chef Bernie Matz has been serving up dishes that have become daily staples for locals and tourists alike. The skirt steak salad is always fantastic, while the black bean hummus, which they offer free of charge, will help soothe your hunger any day of the week.

China Grill

404 Washington Ave., MB | 305.534.2211 South Beach is known for its incredible nightlife, local celebrities, and delectable dining destinations. China Grill has and continues to be one of the places on the Beach where you can experience all of that and more.

As a favorite spot amongst scenesters and fashionistas, China Grill offers some delicious Asian fare paired with a side of extravagance. The best part about China Grill is that every dish is meant to be shared, so you’ll always get the chance to get to know a little more about the person sitting next to you.

City Hall

2004 Biscayne Blvd., Miami | 305.764.3130 When seasoned restaurant vet Steve Haas decided to open his very own restaurant, as opposed to running someone else’s, all of South Florida set in anticipation for his doors to open.

His baby – City Hall, The Restaurant – has certainly turned out to be all that everyone had dreamed of.

Hearty comfort food and a teaming atmosphere come together to create a fantastic dining experience that is sure to make you feel right at home. The short ribs continue to be a local’s favorite, while their happy hour has become the “it” place to enjoy some after work cocktails.

Da Leo Trattoria

819 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.674.0350 One of the pioneers of Lincoln Road, Da Leo is a popular spot with locals, tourists, and celebrities - Marc Anthony and numerous other celebrities love it there! 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. Full bar now with drink specials, too. The service has been outstanding as many of the waiters have been there since the beginning. Hands down, the best ossobuco in town!

David’s Café II

1654 Meridian Ave., MB | 305.672.8707.

You don’t have to travel 90 miles to enjoy Cuban cuisine. Just walk over to David’s Café II off of Lincoln Road Mall on Meridian Avenue for some of the finest Cuban dishes anywhere.

And all at very reasonable prices. They’re open 24 hours and offer a full bar. David’s also has one of the most affordable breakfasts in town. For less than $7, you can get a Cuban coffee paired with Cuban toast, along with eggs, grits, bacon, and much, much more!

De Rodriguez Ocean

101 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.673.3763 Chef Douglas Rodriguez has done it again, and right here in South Florida. Yes, the man known as the godfather of Nuevo Latino cuisine is taking what he knows best about contemporary Latin food and pairing it with delicious seafood. This gorgeous restaurant features a variety of local fish as well as a few exotic offerings.

The best part, besides the food of course, is that you can dine al fresco next to the gorgeous pool or experience a more intimate night in the restaurant’s beautiful dining room.

Doraku

1104 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.8383 Doraku’s cuisine, art, and music celebrate the rich origins of Japan with upscale Pan-Asian cuisine, peaceful décor, and a full bar serving an extensive selection of Japan’s finest sakés. The menu features savory combinations of sushi, sashimi, hot entrees, delectable appetizers, and tasty rolls. Did you know that Doraku means, “Joy of” in Japanese? Well, eating at Doraku, a stylishly designed space that caters to those who crave the best of boutique Asian cuisine, is a joy.

El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar

1010 South Miami Ave., Miami | 305.523.2393 Move over vodka and whisky, there’s a new game in town and it goes by the name of tequila! And this is no more evident than at El Vato Tequila

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and Taco Bar. The menu features chicharron de queso, mahi tacos in house made tortillas; and traditional flautas stuffed with chipotle aioli, homemade jalapeño jelly, and chicken. What’s more, most dishes can be prepared vegan. To help wash down all this Mexican deliciousness, El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar has over 60 tequilas for diners to sample!

Front Porch Café

1418 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.8300 After 17 years of serving South Beach locals the freshest, impeccable meals in generous portions, this restaurant has nothing to prove. It’s the best for casual fare at any time, but especially for their breakfasts. A great menu with the most reasonable prices.

You might have to wait, but be patient, it’s well worth the effort as Larry and Dawn cater to your every need.

Hakkasan

4441 Collins Ave., MB | 786.276.1388 Who doesn’t love some good dim sum?! Well there is no better place in South Florida to enjoy traditional and contemporary Chinese dim sum than at the gorgeous Hakkasan at the Fontainebleau. Named one of the Top 50 Restaurants in the World, Hakkasan offers diners authentic Cantonese fare complimented by a diverse menu of New World wines and sake. We especially love their daily dim sum special. For $28 ++, you can enjoy a fantastic dim sum lunch that includes congee, stir fry, soups, vegetables, and dumplings that are seared, deep fried and steamed.

Haven

1237 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.987.8885 Since opening its doors this past summer, Haven has literally become a “haven” for the fab and gorgeous who enjoy nibbling on a variety of tapas and small bites. The very contemporary space features an incredible menu by executive chef Todd Erickson that showcases his dazzling ability to create dishes that are not only mind blowing, but mouthwatering as well. His rock shrimp and tator tots are to die for, while we just can’t get enough of his Swedish meatballs. The wine list is very affordable, but the drinks may cost you a pretty penny; however, the bartenders at Haven pour 10 ounce martinis, so think of it as a two-for-one!

WIRE COVER: WIRE MAGAZINE’S 2011 GUIDE TO DELICIOUS DINING Joey’s

2506 NW 2nd Ave., Miami | 305.438.0488 Established December 2008, Joey’s Italian café was the first restaurant to open in Wynwood since the area began its transformation into a hip Arts District, nearly a decade ago – and it created an immediate buzz.

Joey’s serves Wynwood’s burgeoning arts community with a fine-tuned menu of healthy, classic dishes from Venice and other culturally rich Italian regions. Their daily specials are really where you get an opportunity to experience the skilled talents of chef Ivo Mazzon!

Kane Steakhouse

431 Washington Ave., MB | 305.704.2900 After opening in the previous Tuscan Steak space on Washington Avenue, Kane Steakhouse had some pretty big Italian shoes to fill and that it has! The gorgeous dining area accentuates the already brilliant décor that made the space so recognizable, while the carefully selected cuts of beef provide your taste buds with a ride they will soon not forget. Kane has deemed itself as the “modern take on steakhouse favorites”, and we would have to agree. The lobster mac and cheese is just too much for words!

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.

Maitardi

163 NE 39th Street, Miami | 305.572.1400 Beginning his career in hospitality as a waiter at the original Tiramesu on Ocean Drive, it is hard to believe how large Graziano Sbroggio’s restaurant empire has grown in less than a decade. From his famous dining destinations on South Beach, including Van Dyke Café, Tiramesu, Segafredo, and Spris to his latest venture – Mai Tardi in the Design District, it seems people just can’t

get enough of Graziano’s food. Located in the heart of the District, Mai Tardi offers moderately priced Northern Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner in one of the most beautiful outdoor seating areas in South Florida.

Michael’s Genuine

130 NE 40th Street, Miami | 305.573.5550 As the Design District began to really make its mark as a cultural destination, chef Michael Schwartz was gearing up to create a restaurant that would stand out all on its own. As one of the few places in South Florida where you can snag some hearty comfort food, Michael’s Genuine features an assortment of delicious dishes ranging from deviled eggs and fried pig’s ear to juicy steaks and free range chickens. Because chef Schwartz is committed to using the freshest ingredients from local purveyors, the menu changes on a daily basis; however, we can guarantee you there will be something that will titillate your taste buds!

Michy’s

6927 Biscayne Blvd., Miami | 305.759.2001 Michy’s is the golden child restaurant created by husband and wife team David Martinez and Michelle Bernstein. This modern bistro located in the up and coming neighborhood of Miami’s “Upper East Side”, awakens the 69th block on gritty Biscayne Boulevard with its glowing lights and bustling energy.

Chef Bernstein and her team utilize seasonal ingredients and draw upon local farmers and fisherman to create whimsical bistro dishes, a style she coins as “luxurious comfort food.” We are personal fans of Michelle’s fried chicken and watermelon Greek salad!

Palace

1200 Ocean Drive, MB | 305.531.7234 This landmark gay owned and operated restaurant and bar on Ocean Drive and 12th Street offers a new menu and is one of the most popular bars for tourists and locals. You can enjoy American bistro flair with a little french influence. The bar has long been a meeting point for American and international gay tourists. Stop by any day of the week – open from 12 noon until 2 a.m. and serving food until 10 p.m.

Pasha’s

900 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.3919

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As one of Miami’s healthiest places to grab a bite, Pasha’s has become a staple among South Beach’s trendiest dieters.

The menu features a number of delicious Mediterranean dishes including kebabs, hummus, and falafel. You can now also grab breakfast at Pasha’s as well. Located on Lincoln Road, the restaurant also features outdoor dining for great people watching, and you can either take the food to go or have a nice sit down dinner.

Pizza Piola

1625 Alton Road, MB | 305.674.1660 One of the most social examples of Italian dining is certainly the pizzeria, and no one knows that better than the folks over at Pizza Piola. After opening its doors in 1986, Piola has been determined to show the world the art of the perfect Italian pizza. Piola’s cuisine is rigorously Italian: simple and healthy. Piola’s pizza is thin-crust and well cooked, but above all, Piola’s pizza menu is very creative: the classic Italian pizzas are flanked by many other creations, all delicious and original.

Red The Steakhouse

119 Washington Ave., MB | 305.534.3688 If steak is your thing then Red The Steakhouse should be your place! Getting its start in Cleveland, OH, Red The Steakhouse has made its way up the culinary latter through its ever evolving menu and down to Miami, changing the landscape of steakhouse dining in South Florida. The fine dining destination offers some of the best cuts of beef available paired with fresh ingredients and side dishes from local purveyors.

Rosa Mexicano

1111 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.695.1005

We’ve all experienced Mexican American food in one way or another; however, it is not too often that we get the chance to experience high quality Mexican dishes in an opulent environment on the trendiest island on the planet, which is why Rosa Mexicana has become such a hit on Lincoln Road. Offering an assortment of traditional Mexican American dishes, as well as a few contemporary takes on some historical favorites, Rosa Mexicana is the “it” place for Mexican cuisine in South Florida. You can never go wrong with one of their delicious guacamole bowls, which they mix right in front of you!

WIRE COVER: WIRE MAGAZINE’S 2011 GUIDE TO DELICIOUS DINING Soyka

5556 N.E. 4th Court, Miami | 305.759.3117 Famed restauranteur Mark Soyka’s namesake restaurant at 55th and Biscayne. Great array of affordable “comfort food” for everyone. Comfortable and inviting. Draws a great local crowd who like to hang out at 55th Street Station adjacent to the restaurant. Food and service are well worth a visit.

Spris

731 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.2020

Van Dyke Café

846 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.534.3600 What News Café is to Ocean Drive, the Van Dyke is to Lincoln Road. Another huge success for Graziano Sbroggio. Always packed offering some of the best people-watching on the Road and a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Also check out Upstairs at the Van Dyke for an evening of Jazz.

Vida @ The Fontainebleau 4441 Collins Ave., MB | 877.326.7412

The pizzeria restaurant of Tiramesu. Absolutely the best Italian pizza on South Beach prepared by a great pizza chef. An excellent selection of white pizzas, too. You can also order your pizza with a whole wheat crust. Sandwiches and salads are first-rate. Best bet for an after movie light dinner or late night snack.

An American Brasserie, Vida captures the essence of Fontainebleau’s glamorous culinary past. Continental comfort cuisine combines with the relaxed, modern flavors of robust American dishes, amidst a sophisticated yet casual backdrop. Vida visually tempts with a lively exhibition kitchen and inspires a multisensorial dining experience to suit virtually every palate.

Their Sunday brunch is by far one of the best deals in town.

Enjoy unlimited mimosas, a smorgasborg of food, and bloody Mary’s for only $55!

Sushi Samba

600 Lincoln Road, MB | 305.673.5337 A South Beach favorite, this Japanese and Latin hotspot features contemporary cuisine with a samba beat. Inventive fare that unites bold Brazilian flavors, precise Japanese technique, and exquisite Peruvian culinary traditions on one plate. Patrons can expect more than just sushi from the diverse menu featuring signature dishes like the sashimi ceviches, South American Beef Maki Rolls and Miso-Marinated Chilean Sea Bass.

Vita

1906 Collins Ave., MB | 305.674.8822 Modeled after the highly successful Baoli located in Cannes, France, Vita by Baoli Miami is an upscale

Tudor House @ The Dream Hotel 1111 Collins Ave., MB | 305.534.8455

Located in the newly renovated and gorgeous Dream Hotel in South Beach, The Tudor House Restaurant is quickly becoming one of the hottest dining destinations in South Beach. Executive chef and former Iron Chef competitor Geoffrey Zakarian has put together a simple yet delicious menu that pulls from a variety of regions all over the world. Currently The Tudor House is offering a Truffle Tasting Menu that your taste buds will thank you for!

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restaurant and entertainment establishment situated in an exotic setting. Unlike most U.S. supper clubs, food is paramount at Vita by Baoli with a nightly menu of ala carte specialties that begins with a full raw bar, selection of tartars and carpaccios and array of soups, including lobster bisque and cream of asparagus. Pasta course includes a year-round truffle risotto with black or white shavings, lobster cavatelli, and fettuccine al mare with optional whole-wheat pasta. Seafood mains include Dover Sole and Mediterranean Branzino or meat options from petit fillet or larger veal chop or hefty rack of lamb.

Wine Depot & Bistro 555

555 Jefferson Ave., MB | 305.672.6161 There’s nothing better than spending an evening with close friends and enjoying a fantastic conversation over a bottle of your favorite wines!

At the Wine Depot & Bistro 555, you can have exactly that any day of the week at any time and for a price that anyone can afford. After perusing the aisles of the Wine Depot, you can snag a chair and a table at Bistro 555 to pop the cork and enjoy your new libation right on the spot. And if that were not enough, Bistro 555 offers a fantastic assortment of small bites to compliment the highlights of your favorite cabernet or sauvignon blanc!

THE MANOR COMPLEX 2-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PHOTOS BY J.R. DAVIS

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TOP TRAX: DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?

MICHAEL BUBLÉ - CHRISTMAS Ever since Bing Crosby gifted us with his rendition of “White Christmas” in the 1940s, it’s been a staple in every holiday music collection. Lucky for us youngsters, Canadian crooner Michael Bublé is taking on the tradition on his second holiday collection (which also happens to be the #1 album in the U.S.). This time around he’s gift-wrapped his jazzy pipes in Bing’s longtime classic, Mariah’s “All I Want For Christmas” and even boasts his bilingual talents on the Spanish duet, “Mis Deseos/Feliz Navidad”, with Mexican recording superstar Thalia. Ay ay ay!

LADY GAGA - A VERY GAGA HOLIDAY Just when you thought Lady Gaga couldn’t get any more daring, her costumes more outrageous, or her performances more eye-popping, she surprises us all by doing just that—but in the complete opposite direction. If you happened to catch the Lady’s Thanksgiving special you were fortunate enough to see yet another side of pop music’s current chameleoness.

Gaga transformed her old elementary school into an intimate dining room complete with cloth linens, candelabras, and live performances while dressed in Valentino couture and ensembles channeling her inner Jackie O and Audrey Hepburn.

Although only four tracks long, this EP contains must-have, live acoustic versions of “You and I” and “Edge of Glory” that would highlight any holiday event just as much as her renditions of “White Christmas” and “Orange-Colored Sky”.

10 TRAX IN MY SACK 1. All I Want for Christmas Is You (Jumpsmokers Remix) – Mariah Carey 2. Mrs. Claus Ain’t Got Nothin’ On Me – Little Jackie 3. I’ll Be Home For Christmas – Kelly Clarkson 4. Mistletoe – Justin Bieber 5. Toy Jackpot - Blackalicious 6. Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Glee 7. Christmas Tree – Lady Gaga 8. Santa Baby – Kylie Minogue 9. Favorite Things – Kristine W 10. I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm (Stuhr Remix) – Kay Starr 16 | wire magazine | issue #50, 2011 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

BY DJ FR8-O

GLEE - THE CHRISTMAS ALBUM: VOLUME 2 The gleeks of McKinley High are back with their second collection of Christmas covers. This time they’ve put their own spin on favorites like “Santa Claus is Coming To Town” and “Do They Know It’s Christmas”, plus they’ve added a couple of original tracks -- “Extraordinary Merry Christmas” and “Christmas Eve With You”. Irish transfer student, Rory Flanagan, makes his soundtrack debut with his rendition of the Elvis classic, “Blue Christmas” while the sultry Santana gives us her best Eartha Kitt on “Santa Baby”. With all the drama going on in the club lately, it’s nice to hear the gang put their issues aside long enough to share some holiday cheer, but I’d keep Quinn away from the mistletoe just in case.

JUSTIN BIEBER – UNDER THE MISTLETOE I won’t lie, when I first heard Justin Bieber released a Christmas album I could barely hold back the nausea building up in my stomach like the morning after a bad batch of eggnog. But like a trooper, I took one for the team and gave it a listen. Not only does the Biebe put a modern twist to some of our favorite Christmas carols, he does it with the help of some of R&B’s most legendary artists like Mariah Carey, Usher, and Boys II Men. Like his cropped locks, Beiber seems to have finally trimmed off some of the childish vocal undertones that once pierced my ears like nails on a chalkboard. My favorite track, “Mistletoe” reminds me more of a breezy Jason Mraz ditty than anything I’d expect from the 17-year-old phenomenon.

If your style is more South Beach than Santa, you might wanna give these next CDs a spin. Just like the cocktails that will be swirling at your soiree, these compilations take the holiday standards we all know and love and serve them up chilled and with a twist. These loungey remixes are just the right recipe to turn your holiday party from shabby to chic.

The Best Of Christmas Cocktails Christmas Chill Christmas Remixed: Holiday Classics Re-Grooved The Hotel Café presents Winter Songs Martinis and Mistletoe

17 | wire magazine | issue #50, 2011 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

FRAT HOUSE FRIDAYS AT JOHNNY’S MIAMI PHOTOS BY HENRY PEREZ

THIS WEEK THURSDAY, December 15 JOHNNY’S MIAMI: It’s Miami’s hottest Latin night. With shows by Teresita la Caliente and Marytrini, you can bet this is going to be one entertaining evening!

Enjoy free cuba libres and Coronas before midnight and an underwear contest at 1 a.m. 62 NE 14th Street, Downtown Miami.

THE MANOR: Bittersweet Thursdays with live burlesque shows all night and $3 Budlights, $5 wells, and $2 PBR Tall Boys all night long. $100 bottle specials will keep your group hip! 18+ welcome. 2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors.

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a night with the ladies, as Pandora Events hosts a fabulous nights of gorgeous girls and great music by DJ Zehno. Located near the corner of Lincoln and Michigan.

PALACE: Palace hosts Stiletto Nights with fierce drag shows by host Missy Meiyakie and special diva cast members. Show starts at 6 p.m. Enjoy weekly drink specials all night. 1200 Ocean Drive.

SCORE: Enjoy cocktails out on the patio and watch the famous Lincoln Road traffic pass by. Tonight Score hosts the steamiest Thursday night soiree with fab beats by DJ Daisy D paired with an incredible crowd of delicious partygoers. 727 Lincoln Road.

TWIST: TWIST: Don’t Don’t miss miss out out on on aa fabulous fabulous night night at at TWIST TWIST with with seven seven different different bars, bars, DJ DJ Pride, Pride, stiff stiff drinks, drinks, and and beautiful beautiful dancers. dancers.

And if you’re looking for some hot papis, And if you’re looking for some hot papis, DJ DJ Adora Adora will will be be hosting hosting Sabroso Sabroso in in Bar Bar 5!

5! “Never “Never aa cover... cover... Always Always aa groove.” groove.”

1057 1057 Washington Washington Ave. Ave. FRIDAY, December 16 JOHNNY’S MIAMI: It’s Frat House Fridays at Miami’s only gay stripper club with $4 drinks all night long with a college ID. Tonight enjoy sexy beats by DJ Miik.

THE MANOR: It’s the annual X-mas Show with DJ JPS in Epic Nightclub, DJ Daisy D in the hip hop lounge, and drag performances all night long. $3 drinks till midnight, $5 drinks after. Enjoy live music in the martini bar at 9 p.m. 18+ welcome!

MOVA: Edison Farrow presents HYPE Fridays tonight at MOVA with DJ Bryan Zero. Enjoy $7 Finlandia and $8 Stoli vodka cocktails all night long. Snag a bottle of Finlandia for $100 to party in style.

TO VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS FROM THIS & OTHER EVENTS VISIT: WWW.WIREWEEKLY.COM 18 | wire magazine | issue #50, 2011 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

PALACE: Tonight is Drag Madness with fierce shows by the hot-n-heavy Latryce Royale and her gaggle of guest entertainers! Get ready for the biggest show on South Beach at 6 p.m.

TWIST: Don’t miss out on a fabulous 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 of music and videos, while Score’s hottest Go-Go boys work the speaker boxes.

SATURDAY, December 17 DISCOTEKKA: Downtown Miami’s only gay dance party delivers one hell of a shindig every Saturday night, and this Saturday night you can expect some amazing shows by TP Lords, Athena Dion, and special guest performers. DJ Joe Gauthreaux will be working the turntables, so get ready for some hot and heavy beats. $150 VIP special. Sky and Absolut Vodka. Doors open at 11 p.m. 950 NE 2nd Ave. JOHNNY’S MIAMI: Miami’s only gay stripper club features the hottest, most masculine men in Miami Enjoy fab beats

by DJ Bryan Zero, while Johnny’s dancers work the stage for your viewing pleasure.

THE MANOR: Throw on your favorite red outfit for The Manor’s Red Party with DJ Michael Tank. You also won’t want to miss the hot Latin beats in the IVY Lounge.

No cover all night long.

MOVA: Stop by for happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by FLASH Saturdays with the hottest music videos and visual entertainment by VJ Chris Racine till 3 a.m. with $9 Grey Goose cocktails all night.

PALACE: Enjoy a special day of drag shows, great food, and stiff cocktails, as The Palace Bar hosts Drag Gone Wild with Tiffany Fantasia and her gaggle of performers! Heels hit the pavement at 6 p.m. sharp!

SCORE: Tonight is Score’s weekly Bigger Saturdays, the largest gay dance party on the Beach with beats by international DJ sensations, and performances by CircX. TWIST: Happy Hour 2-4-1 with Tommy and the locals from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Come tonight and enjoy a full house of hot men and some incredible beats by DJ Mika. “Never a cover...

Always a groove.”

SUNDAY, December 18 ANGLERS: If you are looking to nurse that hangover with some unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s, look no further than 660 at the Anglers. Enjoy great food and delicious libations in one of the most beautiful boutique resorts Miami Beach has to offer.

JOHNNY’S MIAMI: It’s time to be a star, as Johnny’s presents its weekly karaoke party, hosted by DJ Miik at 9 p.m. with $5 Herradura tequila margaritas all night long. Miami’s only gay stripper club features the hottest, most masculine men in Miami.

MOVA: It’s time for one of the wildest parties in SoBe, as Sookie Stacks hosts the most scandalous party in South Beach, Out-n-Ugly Sundays with DJ Latrice.

Beginning at 9 p.m. enjoy $3 beers, $4 Herradura Shots, and $5 Finlandia. No cover.

TUESDAY, December 20 JOHNNY’S MIAMI: Miami’s only gay stripper club features the hottest, most masculine men in Miami. Tonight it’s all about the hot hip hop beats while DJs TPromix and Surreal turnout some of your fave beats.

MOVA: It’s a SINsational Tuesday night at MOVA with their weekly Service Industry Night. Enjoy $50 bottles of Finlandia Vodka, $100 bottles of Grey Goose, and $6 premium well drinks, while DJ AJ Reddy works the turntables.

PALACE: South Beach’s most legendary drag brunch will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with two seatings: one at 11:30 am and another at 2 p.m. Enjoy over-thetop performances by Noel Leon paired with a delectable menu. Afterwards, check out the sexiest Sunday T Dance in SoBe with local DJs working the turntables.

Stop in in for for Palace’s Palace’s 2-4-1 2-4-1 PALACE: Stop cocktails till till 44 p.m. p.m. Better Better Absolut flavored cocktails before on on Ocean Ocean Drive Drive and and 12th 12th than ever before Street, try itit for for lunch lunch or or aa late late afternoon afternoon just hang hang out out at at the the bar bar with with the the snack, or just matter what what you’re you’re in in the the mood mood locals. No matter for, Palace is sure to have it!

SCORE: If you’re looking for a taste of Caribbean music paired with the best in hip-hop and Latin beats, look no further than Score tonight. Club Boi presents a fabulous night of tropical beats from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

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!

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.

MONDAY, December 19 JOHNNY’S MIAMI: Stop by for Drag On with TP Lords, Daisy D, and DJ Rob Sky. Drags drink for free till midnight. $3 drinks all night long!

MOVA: Get ready to be a star at MOVA’s weekly karaoke party with VJ AJ Reddy. Enjoy half priced drinks all night long and $5 glasses of wine.

PALACE: Stop in for Palace’s 2-4-1 Absolut flavored cocktails all day, while enjoying the amazing view of Ocean Drive, and don’t forget to enjoy a snack or two while taking in the scenery.

SCORE: Swing by for one of the best happy hours in Miami Beach where all drinks are 1/2 price, followed by Video Freak where you can request your favorite music videos and enjoy $5 vodka cocktails, $7 martinis and $3 beers. 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 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.

TWIST: 2-4-1 Happy Hour from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on everything. Tonight is Fun House Tuesday with DJ Daisy D working the turntables on the main dance floor. $5 Jumbo Blue Long Island Ice Teas all night long. Never a cover… Always a groove.

WEDNESDAY, December 21 THE MANOR: It’s Wine Down Wednesdays with half priced bottles of wine and incredible music by Rick and Jonathan, 8 to 11 p.m.

MOVA: Stop by for MOVA’s weekly College Night Wednesdays, hosted by the Penny Back Boyz and Sookie Stacks.

DJ Daisy D will be working the turntables, while you enjoy $4 Finlandia & $8 Stoli cocktails all night long.

PALACE: It’s Elite Wednesdays with live performances and shows by Noel Leon.

Enjoy great menu items, while taking in one of the best shows in South Florida.

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.”

19 | wire magazine | issue #50, 2011 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

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With any store catering purchase of $50 or above.

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20 | wire magazine | issue #50, 2011 | www.wireweekly.com | facebook | twitter

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With any store catering purchase of $50 or above.

Coupon can not be combined with other offers.

At participating stores.

Offer valid until 12/31/11

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Offer valid until 12/31/11

With any store catering purchase of $50 or above.

Coupon can not be combined with other offers.

At participating stores.

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With any store catering purchase of $50 or above.

Coupon can not be combined with other offers.

At participating stores.

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