NEW THIS MONTH 228 Restaurants p. 61 21 New Advertisers p.8 76 Pages -- Biggest Ever!

Serving communities along the Biscayne Corridor: Arch Creek East, Aventura, Bay Point, Bayside, Biscayne Park, Belle Meade, Buena Vista, Design District, Downtown, Eastern Shores, Edgewater, El Portal, Hibiscus Island, Keystone Point, Miami Shores, Morningside, North Bay Island, North Miami, North Miami Beach, Oakland Grove, Palm Grove, Palm Island, Sans Souci, Shorecrest, Star Island, Wynwood, and Venetian Islands www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Volume 8, Issue 4 At the Corner of

YesterdayThe historic intersection of Biscayne& Tomorrow Boulevard and 79th Street is up for grabs

By Karen-Janine Cohen Photos by Silvia Ros

tephen Bittel, head of Terranova manages the aging Biscayne Plaza shop- reported $400 million, mixed-use devel- retail on the corner, with a series of high- Corp., knows what the future likely ping center, will not say precisely which opment featuring at least one tower up to rise buildings behind it,” he says during Sholds for a very large piece of land at retailers may want to lease space there. 52 stories high, is off the table — at least an interview at the Miami Beach head- Biscayne Boulevard and 79th Street. But He will say that the ambitious plan for the moment. quarters of Terranova, the commercial he won’t tell. He will hint, maybe drop a of fi ve years ago to demolish the oddly “There was a time we thought it tantalizing clue. But Bittel, whose fi rm shaped center and replace it with a would be a very interesting location for Continued on page 14

CONSIDERING BUYING or SELLING? Call NOW for all Your Real Estate Needs! MIAMI BEACH DECO DORAL SHOPPING PLAZA 4445 N ADAMS AV $1.387M $15.7M BOBBY CONSOLO REALTOR-ASSOCIATE® 305.799.5053 RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL [email protected] STARBUCKS, CHICKEN GRILL, SUBWAY

CALL 305-756-6200 FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THIS ADVERTISING SPACE OurUnique Collection of Properties...

MiMo in Bay Harbor Islands. Unique 1950’s home, open Tri level townhouse in Bay Harbor Islands, floor to bright atrium upon entry, a brick fireplace, lots of light, ceiling windows, large bdrms, pool, pet friendly, 2 car room for a pool, 2 car garage. Rent or Sale. garage. $469,000 or lease for $2800/mo

Magnificent Wide Water, Golden Shores, everything new, just completed, 5200sf, 6BR/5.5BA, pool, not one detail overlooked, exquisite finishes, 2 car garage. Solimar penthouse, steps to Bal Harbour shops, 183' of waterfront, no bridges to bay, min to ocean. Quiet elegant oceanfront bldg, beautiful sunsets, full cul-de-sac in gated comm., updated 4/3, open kitchen, amenities. $995K pool, 2 car gar, large lot w/2 backyards. $995,000

1950's Wide Bay Charmer in Bay Harbor Islands. A combo of unique architecture & wide water frontage make this home fantastic. 6000sf, 4bd/3.5ba, 19688 sf lot. JUST REDUCED $3,600,000 Williams Island 2800 bldg, 2/2, spectacular Waterfront on Bay Harbor Islands, open & spacious, 4/4, Intracoastal & ocean view, eat-in kitchen, tons of wood beamed ceilings, dock, new seawall, walk to beach, closets. $275K or lease $2500/month houses of worship & shops. Extremely motivated $1.35M

Touch of Tuscany on the Intracoastal waterway of Golden Beach, 7/7, 2 boat lifts, pool, Jacuzzi, 6565sf, Deco-style pool home, open kitchen w/ granite & ss 4 car garage. JUST REDUCED $3,600,000 appl., wood & Cuban tile flrs, living rm overlooking pool Keystone Point waterfront Island #5, pool, Jacuzzi, & charming priv. gardens. Reduced $995,000 80’ dock & boat lift, slate/wood frs, 2-car garage. FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.OPENDOORMIAMI.COM The Open Door Miami Team

Bonnie Brooks - 305.206.4186 INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Ilene Tessler - 305.458.1200 1021 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Island, FL

2 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 KJUNEKNIGHT CONCERT HALL C CARNIVAL STUDIO THEATERZ ZIFF BALLET OPERA HOUSE P PARKER AND VANN THOMSON PLAZA SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Signature Shorts undershorts Signature Shorts 3 8:00PM C 4 10:00PM C 5 7:00PM C A mix of hilarious City Theatre's undershorts comedies and late-night series of 10:00PM C June 3-27 heartfelt dramas! short plays that are “They are both provocative, see-worthy for the Signatureth Shorts Celebrating its 15 anniversary irreverent and same reasons: season, Signature Shorts features a new hilarious! novelty, naughtiness, mix of comedies and dramas in one fast and inventiveness!” and furious program! Miami New Times Pictured: Stephen Trovillion, John Manzelli, David Hemphill. Photo by George Schiavone. Signature Shorts Signature Shorts undershorts Signature Shorts 6 5:00PM C 10 8:00PM C 11 10:00PM C 12 7:00PM C “Strong and inventive, “Summer Shorts' Undershorts pushes undershorts filled with artistic prevailing ethic of the envelope with 10:00PM C artistry and awesomeness social and political “Thematic and stylistic versatility.” reasserts itself material reflective of variety!” The Miami Herald in short after short!” the times in one fast The Miami Herald Miami New Times and furious program!

Signature Shorts Camp Kappawanna Camp Kappawanna Tap PUPS-FREE 13 5:00PM C 17 11:00AM C 18 11:00AM & 7:00PM C 19 10:00AM P The original series Take a trip to Camp Hip music by Compete to perform that put “shorts” on Kappawanna—a singer/songwriter Lisa with the TAP DOGS! the map! world premiere Loeb and a script by Camp Kappawanna musical that will rising playwright and 1:00PM & 4:00PM C JUNE 17-27 instantly transport you South Florida native Signature Shorts Marco Ramirez. Camp Kappawanna is the summer's to summer camp! 7:00PM C Signature Shorts undershorts undershorts must-see event for families! 8:00PM C 10:00PM C 10:00PM C 20 Camp Kappawanna Camp Kappawanna Camp Kappawanna Camp Kappawanna 1:00PM C 24 11:00AM C 25 11:00AM & 7:00PM C 26 1:00PM & 4:00PM C Signature Shorts Signature Shorts Camp Kappawanna is Signature Shorts 5:00PM 8:00PM C the summer's must- 7:00PM C “It gets both the artists One of the most see event for families! See one program or and the audiences important shorts undershorts see them both! jazzed!” festivals in the 10:00PM C Summer Shorts is the The Miami Herald country. hottest ticket in town. undershorts 10:00PM C 27 Camp Kappawanna 30 Tap Dogs 1:00PM C 7:30PM Z “Summer camp is one “Spectacular! of those life-changing Triumphant! experiences that every An amazing June 4 – 26 child should have!” achievement!” A late-night series of Lisa Loeb “EXCITING, ATHLETICALLY FEISTY, FUN-LOVING, AND HILARIOUS!” The Los Angeles Times The Chi cago Tribune short plays that are Signature Shorts provocative, irreverent 5:00PM C and hilarious!

JUNE 30-JULY10 Pictured: Erin Joy Schmidt. Photo by George Schiavone.

IN THE CENTER, STEPS FROM YOUR SEAT MIAMI’S NEWEST Convenient parking is plentiful! TICKETS! Info: arshtcenter.org/parking 305.949.6722 • arshtcenter.org DINING HOT SPOT!

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 3 Contents 32 COVER STORY 1 At the Corner of Yesterday and Tomorrow COMMENTARY 6 Feedback: Letters 12 Jack King: Miami As Municipal Money Pit OUR SPONSORS 10 BizBuzz NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS 28 Gaspar González: Return to Sender 30 Frank Rollason: Coming to a Halfway House Near You PO Box 370566, Miami, FL 33137 www.biscaynetimes.com 32 Wendy Doscher-Smith: Miami Makes the Grade 36 PUBLISHER & EDITOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES 34 Jen Karetnick: Home-Field Advantage -- For All It’s Worth Marc Ruehle COMMUNITY NEWS Jim Mullin [email protected] [email protected] 36 Grab a Paddle and Ride the Dragon Nancy Newhart 37 How Does Your Garden Grow? INTERN [email protected] Mandy Baca 38 Women Helping Women Helping Wynwood BUSINESS Manager 39 Two Communities, One School [email protected] Ileana Cohen POLICE REPORTS CONTRIBUTORS [email protected] 50 Biscayne Crime Beat Victor Barrenchea, Erik Bojnansky, Art director Pamela Robin Brandt, Terence Marcy Mock ART & CULTURE [email protected] 44 Anne Tschida: Big Space, Very Big Ambitions Cantarella, Bill Citara, Karen-Janine Cohen, Wendy Doscher-Smith, Kathy Advertising design 46 Art Listings DP Designs 49 Events Calendar Glasgow, Gaspar Gonzaléz, Margaret [email protected] 57 Griffis, Jim W. Harper, Lisa Hartman, PARK PATROL Jen Karetnick, Jack King, Cathi Marro, CIRCULATION 52 South Florida Distributors The Curse of the Ancients Derek McCann, Jenni Person, COLUMNISTS Frank Rollason, Silvia Ros, Jeff PRINTING 54 Kids and the City: Daddy Dearest Stuart Web, Inc. Shimonski, Anne Tschida www.stuartweb.com 55 Your Garden: Bromeliads Are Easy, Lovely, and Risky 56 Harper’s Environment: Bioblitz Comes to Biscayne Bay 57 Vino: After the Storm -- Eat, Drink, and Be Sweaty F oR AdVERTISING INFORMATION CALL 305-756-6200 58 Pawsitively Pets: Mo’ Pets, Mo’ Problems All articles, photos, and artwork in the Biscayne Times 60 Word on the Street: What would you change about Miami? are copyrighted by Biscayne Media, LLC. Any duplication or Member of the reprinting without authorized written consent from the publisher Florida Press Association DINING GUIDE is prohibited. 61 Restaurant Listings: 228 Biscayne Corridor Restaurants!

4 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 “WATERFRONT IS MY BUSINESS”

REAL ESTATE BROKER / CEO

SANS SOUCI ESTATES • WIDE BAY VIEWS KEYSTONE POINT FORECLOSURE Vacant Bay Front Build Your Dream Home KEYSTONE POINT WATERFRONT 185’1/2 Acre ON THEKeystone WATER Prestigious Sans Souci Estates 6BR/4BA, POOL, JACUZZI, DOCK. 20,000 LB BOATLIFT + JETSKI LIFTS SOLD BY JEFF! APPROXIMATELY 4000 SF. OWNER WILL FINANCE Call Jeff to place your ad here REMODELED: 24” Saturnia OVERSIZED marble floors, huge maple LOT! HUGE & granite eat-in kitchen w/ 20 x 50 ft. Pool cooking island. All Marble Baths. All bedrooms have 4 Bdr 3 Bath Pool 2 Car Garage Desirable 1/2 Acre 20,000 Sq Ft Point Lot 4 Bdr 3 Bth 1/3 Acre, 15,000 Sf., 103 Ft. On The Bay great wide bay views. You Can See Forever, Wide Open Views! Pool 2 Car Garage 3400 Sq Ft Direct Ocean Access No 3000 Sq. Ft. New Granite Kitchen Offered For Sale “OWNER WILL FINANCE” OverSized 1/3 Acre Lot Only $625,000. $1,490,000 Bridges to Bay! Priced at Land Value! Only 25% down @ 6% fixed int.!!! Remodel, or Tear Down and Rebuild... Only 859K! $2.4M w/terms or $1.8M cash BEAUTIFUL 3 BDR 2 BTH TOWNHOME KEYSTONE POINT CORNER LOT SANS SOUCI ESTATES • ANGLE WIDE BAY VIEW EAST OF US-1 N. MIAMI ON 135 ST 175' ON WATER ISLAND #5 Keystone Point 2 Story Waterfront

SOLD BY JEFF! 2nd LOT FROM BAY Call Jeff to place your ad here APPROVED SHORT SALE

COMPLETELY REMODELED BRAND NEW; TILE FLOORS, 5 BDR 3 1/2 BTH POOL 2 CAR GARAGE 6 BDR 4 BTH 1 Car Garage 3931 Sq Ft ONLY 789K 4BR / 3BA, POOL, APPROX. 3000 SQ FT, MAPLE & CORIAN KITCHEN, ALL BATHS, VACANT Large Home with a Great Floorplan. All Formal Rooms; 3825 SQ FT COMPLETELY REMODELED NEW BARREL TILE ROOF EASY TO SEE, EASY JOG OR BIKE RIDE TO ENCHANTED BRAND NEW; HUGE CHERRYWOOD/GRANITE Living,Dining, & Family Rm. Master Bdr Downstairs. FOREST OR FIU BIKE TRAILS, PARK YOUR BOAT EAT-IN KITCHEN W/SUBZERO & Plenty of Room for a Pool. Great Floor Plan. All Formal Rooms. Separate Living, ACROSS THE STREET AT ONE OF 2 MARINAS!! 75' of Dockage, Direct Ocean Access, Dining, Family Room & Media Room. Room For 2 Car NEW SCHOOLS K-12 JUST OPENED LESS THAN THERMADORE APPLIANCES HUGE MASTER SUITE No Fixed Bridges to Bay, Lowest Price per Sq. Ft. 1 MILE AWAY !! ONLY $155K CUL-DE-SAC JACUZZI WATERFALL POOL ONLY 1.2 MIL In Subdivision, Brand New Schools K thru 12 just Opened Garage. Lowest Price In Subdivision! Try 671K WIDE BAY !!! KEYSTONE POINT BAY VIEWS • 75’ DOCK Sans Souci NonWater “Divorce Sale” SANS SOUCI ESTATES Keystone Point Vacant Lot 185’ ON THE WATER ½ ACRE SHORT SALE

OWNER WILL FINANCE FOR RENT WITH 30% DOWN

BOATER’S DREAM HOUSE Oversized 80 X 150!! NonWaterfrt Parcel 4 Bdr 3 Bth 1 Car Garage NonWater 2900 Sq Ft YOU CAN SEE FOREVER. 180 PANORAMIC VIEWS 27,000 LB BOAT LIFT 4BR, 3BA, Pool, 2 Car Garage, New Located in a 24 Hr GuardGated Comm at the with New Barrel Tile Roof, FROM HAULOVER CUT TO THE DOWNTOWN MIAMI Built Add 2008, Hi Vaulted Ceilings Over 3,000 SF. 24” end of a Desireable “Cul De Sac” Street!! 24 hour Guard Gated Community. SKYLINE. 6 BDR 7 BATH POOL 2 CAR GARAGE Marble, 2008 Granite Kitchen and Baths. Hurricane Impact Beautiful perimeter landscaping already in place. This is a Divorce “Short Sale” $449K 6000 SF HIGH CEILINGS MARBLE FLOORS in place. Lease for $5,900/mo. Come build your dream home or one for spec. 399K GOURMET COMMERCIAL GAS KITCHEN $3.1 MIL Chance of A Lifetime DRY CLEANERS FOR SALE WIDE BAY VIEW POINT LOT KEYSTONE PT WATERFRONT 1/3 ACRE LAND Own Your Own Restaurant Includes Land & Business SANS SOUCI ESTATES OWNER WILL FINANCE WITH 30% DOWN

OWNER WILL FINANCE W/$35K DN LOCATED 1 LOT OFF THE WIDE BAY ON 3BR / 3BA, POOL, 2 CAR OVERSIZED GARAGE Price includes Business / Bldg. & 1/2 Acre of PRIME LOCATION ON STATE HIGHWAY! CUL DE SAC LOT SIZE 112 X 125 APPROX 14,000 SQ FT Pie Shaped Lot W/125 Of Dockage On The Water On The “Bayfront Street.” Next To Multi-Million-Dollar Mansions. One Canal Off The Land. Located in South Ft. Lauderdale on 75’ of Frontage x 125’ Deep. Time & Terms NEW SEAWALL 90' OF DOCK (112' ON WATER) Bay & Across The Street From The Bay. 24” Marble Throughout, US1, 4COP Lic. Included. Great Location Neg. Located on SR 441 City of N. Miami. 25,000 LB BOATLIFT PARK YOUR YACHT WHILE YOU BUILD Huge Wood & Granite Kit. 2nd Story Master Suite W/ Wood Floors & YOUR DREAM HOME! Priced at Land value. Only $1.9M Priced at land value $399K Vaulted Ceil. Pool/Jacuzzi & 20KW Gas Generator. Only 20% down @ 6% fixed int.!!! Owner will finance with 30% down $1.49M Offered at $1,290,000

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 5 Commentary: Feedback Letters to the Editor True Fact: Not All Realtors Gaspar’s Take on Me? Are Unscrupulous Amusing! I am compelled to respond to Gaspar Joke: “What is the difference between González’s article “As the Market Turns” people who have a voter registration card (May 2010). In the interest of full and and those who have a real estate license? immediate disclosure, I am a Realtor who Not everyone has a voter registration lives and works in the neighborhoods Mr. card.” I’ve told this joke several times, Gonzalez references in his article. and I still laugh every time at the irony. One of the most trying parts of my I’m sorry that the day we met, job is working daily with the not-so- Lane and Gaspar were absent a sense of scrupulous among us Realtors, those humor. Unfortunately an unethical or in- who do not approach the job with the experienced real estate agent can quickly best interests of the client at heart. I can sour the reputation of otherwise experi- commiserate with Mr. González and enced business professionals. Contrary his negative experience with a number to what Lane and Gaspar may think, we of Realtors, but I am also compelled to are not a bunch of gypsies with a crystal stand up for the hardworking, ethical ball to the future. And although many core of our industry who work tirelessly people feel we should work for free, it is in the best interests of their clients. my business policy not to do so. I can’t help but take immediate offense Lane and her husband obviously to Mr. González’s imbalanced and one-sided had a rough time of it. I appreciate their testimonial used to broadly condemn Real- need to vent. No one knows better how tors. Instead of entirely passing the buck, difficult this market is than those of us perhaps Mr. González and his wife should who work it daily. However, Lane and have taken a bit more seriously the job of Gaspar would be well advised not to finding a Realtor they could trust. A little measure everyone by the same yardstick. due diligence is clearly in order when one is The job of a good Realtor is to make It is Well considering a life-changing purchase. the difficult process of home purchase With a relatively minor investment and selling look easy. I have had several With My of time and effort, I am certain Mr. customers get their real estate licenses González and his wife would have found only to learn that this is not easy money. a Realtor they could trust, one with their They later call to tell me they had no idea interests at heart and not blindly in pur- of the complexities of my job and how suit of the “sacred” sale, one who would they appreciate what I do. be candid and honest about the trying Let’s face it, if it were easy to offer Soul reality of today’s real estate market. fair and unbiased representation in real SeraphicSeraphic Fire’s Annual SSummerummer GGospelospel CConcertoncert There are those in the industry who estate, Lane and Gaspar would be making Hallelujah! Tap your toes and hum alongalong as the sinsingersgers and Patrick DuprDupréé follow this approach, not just because it’s millions as Realtors and smiling (“They Quigley sing the biggest hits from past years’ gospel programs. Expect to the right thing to do, but because a client all smile”) all the way to the bank. hear “Amazing Grace,” “Victory is Mine,” “I’ll Fly Away,” and other favorites. whose trust is earned is a client rarely “Tiffany Safire” Wednesday, June 9 at 7:30 PM lost. It’s the right approach for long-term “As the Market Turns” St. Christopher's by-the-Sea, Key Biscayne, FL and market-immune success. Mr. González’s one-sided portrayal Realtors As Greedy, Thursday, June 10 at 7:30 PM is at best irresponsible journalism, and St. Martha Catholic Church, Miami Shores, FL it stinks of sour grapes. I expected more Self-serving Bimbos? Friday, June 11 at 7:30 PM from Biscayne Times! Thanks a Lot First United Methodist Church, Coral Gables, FL Nate Miller Gaspar González makes us (real estate Palm Grove agents) out to be a total bunch of bimbos. Saturday, June 12 at 8:00 PM Not a decent bone in our selfish, self- All Saints Episcopal Church, Fort Lauderdale, FL Unscrupulous Realtors? serving, greedy bodies Sunday, June 13 at 4:00 PM Well, Yes… I would say greedy heads, but we all Miami Beach Community Church, Miami Beach, FL know our heads are empty. Great story by Gaspar González. I really Thanks for such a narrow view of enjoyed reading it. As far as Realtors are our profession. concerned, he hit the nail on the head, AUTOMOTIVE William E. Mathisen sad to say. Keep the good stories coming. Wemco Realty Services Anthony J. Cantey Upper Eastside Reserve Your Tickets today at Cantey Realty and Investments Miami www.SeraphicFire.org or 888-544-FIRE Continued on page 8

6 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 EVEN THEIR PRICES ARE WELL-DESIGNED

LUXE SOFA - Reg $799$799,, Only $599! ConvertsCoonverts ttoo a bedbeb d

LOWRIDER SOFA+ OTTOMAN Reg $1799, Only $999!

N. MIAMI BEACH HOLLYWOOD 3025 NE 163rd St 4150 N 28th Terrace 305.944.8080 954.874.3888

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 7 Commentary: Feedback

Letters Continued from page 6

How To Run a Government U.S. Embassy Staff Like a CEO Frank Rollason is 100 percent on target when he says that with a strong mayor, there is no need for a county manager (“We Can Trust Our County Commis- sioners,” May 2010). We also don’t need 64 county departments and myriad bureaucrats to head them. County government performs six basic functions (aside from corrections, which should be managed by the state; and the airport/seaport, which are profit- able, monopolistic enterprises): police, In Kabul, Afghanistan, Rep. Ileana fire/rescue, parks, building and zoning, Ros-Lehtinen met with Army Lt. transportation, and solid waste. Ronald C. Riley of North Miami, Six department directors is all you who loves his BT, regularly sent to need — and no assistants or secretaries, him by friends back home. since the Internet has obviated the need for any such support staff, which hinders he does should make sure his writing is rather than helps the flow of information. fair and balanced. We need only about one-fifth the bureau- A good example of lack of balance crats we now have in the county. was his comment that “those on the com- Like any other private or public mission who favored signing the agree- organization, Miami-Dade County needs ment tended to compensate for their lack a chief executive with power to hire and of expertise with surefire certainty, as if fire, tempered only by civil-service rules being absolutely committed to something that protect rank-and-file employees. were the same as being right.” You could All management-level employees (those say the same thing about anyone on any bureaucrats) should serve at the pleasure side of an issue. of the elected chief executive, as happens As for his statement that Biscayne at the federal level. Park didn’t bother to hire experts — an Last but not least, no one in munici- experienced utilities lawyer on the cali- pal government should earn more than ber of FPL’s experts — it may have been $100,000 per year. Period. a result of his having lived in Biscayne If the county commission would Park only since late last year. He may implement these reforms, we would not have been aware of the more than gladly pay them a decent salary. two years of heavy-duty negotiations and Xavier Suarez, former mayor research that went into this matter. He City of Miami (1985-93) might also want to check the Village’s fi- nancial situation. I am wondering where It’s Nice to Have Someone he thinks we could have come up with that kind of money. Writing About Our Village, Mr. González criticized Mayor However… Roxanna Ross’s suggestion at the April 6 I am writing in response to Gaspar meeting to hold a “workshop” as part of González’s column “Uncivil War” (May that meeting because he believed there 2010), regarding the Biscayne Park/FPL was no time to prepare and no experts in Franchise agreement. I am happy Bis- the room. Elected officials should always cayne Park has someone writing about come prepared for full discussion on our village — not just a general story agenda items and never assume how a under a Biscayne Park heading. Thanks vote will go. for getting us more publicity! And in gen- There ended up being two workshops: eral I enjoy Mr. González’s writing style. April 17 and 24. Even though they were What I don’t like is Mr. González’s asked to have their experts attend, neither tendency to leave out pieces of informa- Commissioner Bryan Cooper nor Com- tion that don’t coincide with his view of missioner Steve Bernard had anyone there. the issue. Anyone who writes as well as Continued on page 42

8 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Bryan T. Halda, P.A. Your South Florida Realtor

Bryan T. Halda, CRS, P.A. Senior Vice President -Top Producer 305-788-8470 [email protected] www.bryanhalda.com

FTUBUFT
t
DPOEPNJOJVNT
t
MBOE

Receive exclusive access to multiple, confidential and discreet non-listed properties available for sale and lease, both long and short term. Over $100-Million in Sales Since 2006

SOLD SOLD SOLD Pinetree Drive Rivo Alto Drive Pinetree Drive $3.3 million $3 million $8 million

SOLD SOLD SOLD Pinetree Drive Hibiscus Island Miami Shores $4.75 million $5.4 million $270,000

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 9 Our Sponsors BizBuzz: June 2010 Sales, special events, and more from the people who make Biscayne Times possible By Pamela Robin Brandt Schnitzel Haus North Miami Yes Pasta! (14871 Biscayne Blvd., BT Contributor Arts Collective 305-944-1006), a fast-casual spot where you do the creating — mixing o argument, Miami and matching your ideal pasta/sauce summers are hot. combo — and they do the cooking. NBut so are the special Fewer armoires, more exotic events and deals BT adver- woods. Those are a couple of new home- tisers come up with to keep locals here associate at design trends you’ll find at new adver- — and happy. For example, you can start Gray & As- Herval Furniture tiser Scan Design (3025 NE 163rd St.,

summer with a bang — or rather a pop! — sociates and a Smiling Pets 305-944-8080), which has specialized at family-style Acquolina (124 S. Federal returning BT adver- in high-quality contemporary furniture, Hwy, Hallandale; 954-454-2410). This tiser, he’s a multimil- and nothing else, since 1969. month the trendy/friendly Italian restau- lion-dollar producer Meanwhile, lovers of vintage ac- rant is offering a free glass of champagne who’s nevertheless as cessories will find a trove at 55th Street to diners who mention the BT. empathetic to first- Station’s newest addition, Night Owl From June 11 to July 11, think of the time buyers seeking (5580 NE 4th Ct., 305-989-9995). The Royal Bavarian Schnitzel Haus (1085 studio apartments as to At Bagels & Company shop’s name is explained by its late hours: NE 79th St., 305-754-8002) as the Soccer celeb clients wanting (11064 Biscayne Blvd., 305- Thursday-Saturday from 5:00-11:00 p.m. Haus. The eatery will open at 2:00 p.m. waterfront mansions. 892-2435), owner David Cohen is bring- Check Night Owl out after dining at daily to show all the important World Cup From business disputes or loan mod- ing back his wildly popular $5 Friday the Station’s flagshipSoyka Restaurant, matches on huge screens. A free drink for ifications to restraining orders, DUIs, and special: a huge deli sandwich with pur- where managing partner Frankie Crupi those wearing soccer jerseys. criminal defense, new advertiser attorney chase of a beverage. Check out David’s reports there’s a new team: executive chef To honor that other June event, William Reich (786-431-2938) handles ad in the Dining Guide for details, plus Paul Suriel, a Joe Allen (NY and Miami) Father’s Day, Mike’s at Venetia (555 NE them all. Reich is a former assistant state many more on other weekdays. alum; general manager Patricia Fer- 15th St., 9th floor) offers free billiards attorney, meaning he’s seen it all. Lunchtime = eating, right? Not nec- raro, who’s revitalizing the wine list; and every Sunday and Monday this month, At locally treasured trattoria Il essarily. It now can mean exercising at M pastry chef William Newcomb, renowned with a food or drink purchase. Migliore (2576 Miami Gardens Dr., 305- Power Project gym (9301 NE 6th Ave.), for his awesome sticky date pudding. Both fathers and futbol are big deals 792-2902), diners mentioning the BT will which presents the Lunchbox Special, Oops. Is that sticky date pudding on at the famed furniture showrooms of receive one of the eatery’s famed des- an isometric/plyometric/weight workout your suit? We know you want to lick it Herval USA (2666 NE 189th St., 305- serts for free. That’s one per table, but aimed at working women. Call Cornell off, but instead bring it to Shores Clean- 466-2606; 1730 Biscayne Blvd., 305- they’re plenty big enough to share. (305-758-8500) for details and registration. ers & Laundry (9478 NE 2nd Ave.; 305- 377-1221). For a 10% discount, just say For froyo fans, Miami’s latest Yogen One might assume that Top Chef 756-4434), a new advertiser known for the Father’s Day Soccer Special magic Früz (14881 Biscayne Blvd.) offers a 10% contender and new advertiser Howie quality dry cleaning at affordable prices. words: “World Cup 2010.” discount this month to Aventura residents Kleinberg’s new Bulldog Café (19048 New customers score with $21 worth of Nowhere to put that new furniture with proof of residence. NE 29th St., 305-931-9244) is a clone of free cleaning. from Herval? Call new advertiser Star Dr. Raul Jimenez of the brand- his Bulldog Barbecue (15400 Biscayne Admit it: In your heart, you’re a Construction Company (305-893-4101). spanking-new Biscayne Veterinary Blvd., 305-940-9655). Yes, some café flamenco dancer. Done! Starting June Staff will help meet your budget for a Center (5841 Biscayne Blvd., 305-575- dishes incorporate Howie’s barbecue, but 24 Dancewear and the North Miami family room or any other remodeling job. 1190) says all his super high-tech equip- the menus are quite different. Solution: Arts Collective has a six-week begin- In the market for a whole new ment is up and running smoothly and Taste test at both. ners’ workshop in the fiery dance. And residence? Call real estate agent Bryan that the facility is prepping for 24-hour For pasta lovers who just can’t find Halda (305-754-3778). A senior partner/ emergency service. Bow wow! their dream date, meet new BT advertiser Continued on page 43

10 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 11 Commentary: Miami’s King Miami As Municipal Money Pit Tomás Regalado got elected mayor and then got the bad news: We’re definitely broke By Jack King What has budget process, we won’t have a budget. BT Contributor changed in the Last year the commission voted to have last year is the layoffs starting in October, but it did hen Miami Mayor Tomás Re- information we not happen. By February we had to lay galado announced that he was have received off people. running for the city commis- about the city’s What happened with the layoffs?

W Jorge Perez, City of Miami sion some 14 years ago, I was skeptical finances. A year Did former city manager Pete Hernan- that he could do the job if he won. He’s ago we suspected dez just ignore the wishes of the city been a long-time journalist and televi- we were broke. commission? sion commentator, and it’s been my ob- Now we know we That is exactly what happened. He servation that journalists make horrible are broke. Even did nothing. politicians (and politicians make horrible though the city The job market is still weak in journalists). Plus he was running on the received money Miami. Any thoughts on how the city can coattails of former Mayor Joe Carollo, in the billions, in help the situation? not exactly one of Miami’s greatest lead- the last ten years The stadium and the tunnel were ers. Fortunately that relationship didn’t we spent more all sold on the jobs idea, but people are last too long. than we received. Now we have an $87 the courts control of the city. We don’t now realizing that construction jobs are But he did get elected and he did million deficit in the next budget that we want to do that. temporary. And the county has nothing do the job. Over time became quite a will have ready by September. What is Would you consider selling off city to help the jobs issue. populist, keeping an eye out for the the problem? It is employee salaries, ben- assets? What about Watson Island — the little people and for the budget. He efits, and pensions. These three items are We would only sell off assets to Flagstone development and Jungle was on the wrong end of 4-1 votes for 86 percent of the total budget. Health- replenish the reserve fund. Island? a number of years. Yet he still asked care from 1999 to 2009 grew almost 100 What about the Knight Center in Years ago we were warned about questions for which people wanted an- percent. Plus we have been spending downtown? Flagstone and were told to make sure swers. In the recent past, Manny Diaz’s money on consulting and master plans Every year we pay $5.5 million they have the money to do the project. management combo of Joe Arriola that are not used. to pay off what we owe on the Knight We pulled the item from the last com- and Pete Hernandez never bothered to From 2000 to 2007, the general Center, but nobody wants to buy it. It is mission meeting because there was just answer them. revenue fund was growing at 7 percent a too small for a convention center and too one outstanding issue with the project: I was also skeptical that Regalado year. During that time, our expenditures small as a concert venue. Plus the Uni- money. They seem interested building could be elected mayor, but he won hand- rose by 89 percent. In 2008 revenue fell versity of Miami, a partner in the Knight the mega-yacht marina, but the hotels ily, thanks in no small part to Diaz’s sup- by 3.6 percent and is still falling. Center, was allowed by the previous are not going to happen. port of Joe Sanchez’s mayoral bid. With The largest increases by department administration to walk away from their And Jungle Island? That’s another that kind of endorsement, the election was over 2000-2007 were fire at 111 percent, obligation [in exchange] for not suing headache. They are not paying rent. a walk in the park for Regalado. However, police at 69 percent, and pensions at 316 the city over their Orange Bowl contract. We have to pay the taxes [$800,000 the minute he was sworn in as mayor, he percent. If we don’t fix the structural That allowed the Marlins’ stadium to be a year] and $1.5 million a year on the confronted a daunting challenge: cleaning problems with the city’s finances, we constructed. federal loan. We need to resolve this. up the mess left by Diaz & Co. have only two options: Raise taxes to Are the police, fire, and civil em- This was something that was deliber- Mayor Regalado agreed to sit down the max, or we don’t raise taxes and ployees’ unions negotiating with the city ately left for the next administration to with me and answer some questions about I call the governor and the state takes during the budget process? deal with. the city and its finances. Here goes: over the finances of the city. There is a The police and civil employees What has changed in your first six third option: Bankruptcy, and we are are, but the fire department has not months? looking into that also. That would give yet. Without union participation in the Feedback: [email protected] THE LAW OFFICE OF WILLIAM REICH, P.A. 12550 BISCAYNE BLVD STE 800 • NORTH MIAMI • ph (786) 431-2938 CONTRACTOR/CONSUMER DISPUTES • CONSTRUCTION • BUSINESS CONTRACT • LANDLORD-TENANT DISPUTES • FORECLOSURE DEFENSE • LOAN MODIFICATIONS FLAT FEE & FLEXIBLE FEE ARRANGEMENTS AVAILABLE FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

CRIMINAL DEFENSE by a Former Assistant State Attorney Misdemeanor • Felony • Traffic • DUI • Expunge Records • Domestic Violence Injunctions (Restraining Orders)

12 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 :$7(5)5217(67$7( /$1'0$5.(67$7( (OHJDQW JUDQGOX[XULRXVHVWDWH9HU\ 5HVWRUHG%HG)XOO%DWKVò+DOI%DWKV SULYDWHVTIWJDWHGFRPSRXQGRQ ZLWKLQFUHGLEOHVTIWORWZLWK ZDWHUIURQWDFUHV%HG%DWKVEDOO VTIWRIOLYLQJVSDFH1HZNLWFKHQDQGEDWKV URRPSRROSDYLOLRQJD]HERGRFNFDU 3HUIHFWIRUDODUJHIDPLO\KXJHJUDVVSOD\ JDUDJHVHSDUDWHJXHVWKRXVH DUHD5('8&(' $QQXDO/HDVHPRQWK 1(WK&RXUW0RUQLQJVLGH 3LQHWUHH'ULYH0LDPL%HDFK ZZZ0RUQLQJVLGH1(FWFRP ZZZSLQHWUHHGULYHFRP 9LUWXDO7RXUKWWSZZZ2EHRFRP

:,'(%$<9,(:6 &+$50,1*0(''(&2+20( %HDXWLIXOO\XSGDWHGFKLFGHFR%HGò %HG%DWKVZLWKVTIW&RUQHUSRRO %DWKVVTIWZLWKSULYDWHFRXUW\DUG KRPHORFDWHGRQHEORFNIURPED\RQRQHRI VTIWFRUQHUORWZLWKDGRFN WKHEHVWVWUHHWVLQ0RUQLQJVLGH,PSDFWZLQ  GRZVXSGDWHGJDVNLWFKHQ FDUJDUDJH %D\'ULYH0LDPL%HDFK 1HZOLVWLQJ ZZZED\GULYHFRP 1(WK6WUHHW0RUQLQJVLGH

02'(51/8;85< 5(129$7('322/+20( 6SHFWDFXODUGHVLJQHUDSDUWPHQWZLWK 5HQRYDWHG%HG%DWKVRQDGRXEOH VTIWRIEDOFRQ\ZRFHDQ FLW\YLHZV+LJK VTIWORWFDUJDUDJHLQ+LVWRULF IWFHLOLQJV8QLTXHRSSRUWXQLW\WRRZQ 0RUQLQJVLGH0DLQKRXVH%HG%DWKV WKHYHU\EHVW JXHVWKRXVH%HG%DWK*UHDWURRPZ 5HGXFHG ¿UHSODFHZRRGEHDPHGFDWKHGUDOFHLOLQJ $TXD$YH&KDWKDP%OGJ 0RWLYDWHGVHOOHU 0LDPL%HDFK 7HUULÀFYDOXHDW ZZZ0LDPL%HDFK0RGHUQ&RQGRFRP 1(WK6WUHHW0RUQLQJVLGH

3(5)(&7,21213$/0,6/$1' +,6725,&0251,1*6,'( 3UHVWLJLRXVVDIHDQGVHFXUHQHLJKERUKRRG %HG%DWKVLQPDLQKRXVHJXHVW RQJDWHG3DOP,VODQG/RYHO\%HG%DWKV FRWWDJH   VT IW LQWHULRU VSDFH ZLWKSRROGHQDQG¿UHSODFHUHFHQWO\UHQR /RFDWHGRQRQHRIWKHSUHWWLHVWVWUHHWVRIWKH YDWHG$QLGHDOIDPLO\KRPHZLWKQHDUE\ QHLJKERUKRRG LVODQGSDUNSOD\JURXQG 5HGXFHG 3DOP$YHQXH0LDPL%HDFK 1(WK6WUHHW0RUQLQJVLGH ZZZSDOPDYHQXHFRP ZZZ1(WK6WUHHWFRP

*529(+,//83'$7('&21'2 .(<:(67/,9,1* 3DQRUDPLFKLJKÀRRU%HGò%DWKVZLWK %HG%DWKVRI¿FHRYHUVTIW GHQFR]\FRUQHUXQLWZLWK6(ZDWHUYLHZV 8SGDWHGNLWFKHQ2QHFDUJDUDJHODUJH 7KUHHWHUUDFHV (XURSHDQNLWFKHQ$FURVV VFUHHQSRUFK7URSLFDOODQGVFDSHGGRXEOH WKHVWUHHWIURP)UHVK0DUNHW VKRSV ORW

6287+2)7+/2)7 0(''(&2+20(&/26(72 )DQWDVWLF ERXWLTXH EXLOGLQJ GHVLJQHG E\ (9(5<7+,1* &KDG 2SSHQKHLP ,Q WKH KHDUW RI 6RXWK %HGò%DWKVRI¿FHRQDVTIW %HDFKLQDTXLHWVWUHHW%HG%DWKVZLWK OXVKO\ODQGVFDSHGORW8SGDWHGNLWFKHQ  VTIWLQWHULRUVSDFHIWÀRRUWR EDWKV&DWKHGUDOFHLOLQJVRULJLQDOWLOH ZRRG FHLOLQJ ZLQGRZV 5RRIWRS SRRO ZLWK ODUJH ÀRRUV6XSHUFKDUPLQJ WHUUDFHV/RZHVWSULFHLQWKHEXLOGLQJ  ,ORQD&RQGR-HIIHUVRQ :WK6WUHHW0LDPL%HDFK $YHQXH0LDPL%HDFK

NANCY BATCHELOR Real Estate Just Got Friendlier

    5(5*@'5(5*@)(;*/,369*64>>>5(5*@)(;*/,369*64

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 13 Cover Story

Intersection Continued from page 1 real estate firm Bittel founded. “There is obviously not an acute need for more residential product in South Florida today.” Bittel personally has a small Courtesy of Seth Bramson equity interest in Biscayne Plaza, which is owned primarily by Allen Greenwald of The Greenwald Group, a South Miami property development firm; and Edward Easton of The Easton Group, a Miami real estate concern. The demise of that grandiose plan was a relief to many nearby residents, who feared high-rises would ruin the ambiance of their single-family-home communities. And those eager to save more of Biscayne Boulevard’s singular structures are now hoping there is time to make their case that the plaza, the adjacent Admiral Vee Motel, and other build- ings along the Boulevard should become part of the MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District. The City of Miami created the district in 2006. It runs from 50th Street to 77th Street along the Boulevard, and protects buildings designed in the flashy post-war style known as Miami Modern from being torn down or substantially al- tered. (All other structures in the district This undated photo from the collection of Seth Bramson shows the popular Juniors Restaurant and the are protected as well.) Many argue that Admiral Vee behind it. the shopping center, Admiral Vee, and other buildings north of 77th Street share Look beyond the nearby fast-food those a balconied second floor row sits nonprofit Project Access Foundation, the MiMo style and deserve safeguard- chains, noisy buses, speeding cars, and mostly vacant. The lawyers who once which provides low-cost mammography ing as well. oblivious pedestrians and you’ll see the worked there left when the federal gov- to South Florida women. Michel is also “It’s a shame they are not part of the plaza’s personality unfold. It has a strange ernment moved its immigration agency CEO of South Miami’s Larkin Commu- historic district now,” says Nancy Lieb- configuration, bisected by NE 81st Street, out of the 12-story structure across 79th nity Hospital. In 2006 Michel and other man, a preservation advocate instrumen- which runs past the former Admiral Vee Street. Glass-enclosed catwalks link the executives associated with the hospital tal in helping gain protection for South Motel and down the length of the center, main buildings, and concrete stairways paid $15.4 million to settle federal and Beach as well as Biscayne Boulevard. “I stopping just shy of the antique auto busi- lead to the second floor. state civil healthcare fraud charges involv- think the original parts have great value ness of Ted Vernon, whose property hugs Then there is the Admiral Vee Motel, ing kickbacks to doctors and unnecessary “Little by little, neighborhoods are going historic. Historic designation increases property values and also helps stabilize the market.” as historic-quality buildings and should the Little River and who, over the past now just known as 8000 Biscayne Blvd. It admission and treatment of patients. be included.” several years, has been embroiled in a was built in 1957, reportedly designed by Michel declined to be interviewed for Drivers zipping by Biscayne Plaza lawsuit with the plaza’s owners. Maurice Weintraub as a classic example this article. However, Carlos Suarez, who may not realize they are passing a piece Parking is in the plaza’s center, of MiMo architecture. Its soaring, glass- with Michel owns Glasshaus Studios at of Miami history. It was built in 1954 an inversion of the typical mall design. fronted second-story lobby is now used for the former motel, says Michel bought the and designed by Robert Fitch Smith, then From there you can take it all in. On the photo shoots and film production, as is the Admiral Vee with the idea of revamping dean of the University of Miami School north side is a long building now occu- original second-story swimming pool. and preserving the property while attract- of Architecture. He created it to echo and pied by Big Lots, Foot Locker, and sev- According to county records, Dr. ing members of Miami’s arts community. comment on the nation’s emerging car- eral other stores. On the west is President Jack Michel bought the building in 1995 Glasshaus coordinates photographic and centric culture. It was Miami’s very first Supermarket, Radio Shack, and Payless for $350,000. Michel recently opened video productions at the property. suburban shopping center. Shoes. Along the east and south sides are a ground-floor medical clinic fronting a row of fashion and shoe shops. Above the Boulevard. The doctor also runs the Continued on page 16

14 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 15 Cover Story

Intersection that would be valuable additions.” Continued from page 14 Bittel adds vaguely that the proper- ty would serve the community best with “Our goal is to build a creative hot a great supermarket. And what about spot,” Suarez says, noting that Michel any revamping? Rebuilding? “I think the has already put about $500,000 into current view is to continue as a shopping cleaning, painting, and repairing the center,” he says. “What it looks like and property. Other firms, such as a photo how it is configured depends a lot on company and casting company, also have what tenants are attracted to it.” space in the building. Suarez, a former Speculation abounds. Would Presi- creative director of Ocean Drive maga- dent Supermarket stay? Could Publix zine, says the next phase might include be interested? Whole Foods? And what renting the remaining former motel about Walmart? The site is too small for rooms to a variety of interior designers. a full-size store, but the Arkansas behe- There are also discussions about opening moth has recently opened its “Neighbor- a restaurant, Suarez says. hood Market” grocery stores in Broward Visitors gazing from the retro pool and Palm Beach counties. More dollar- deck to the shoppers below may marvel type stores? Lower-cost clothing? While at Miami’s diversity, but they may not Biscayne Plaza was built with parking lots in the center, the inverse of many people living along the Biscayne realize they are also perched at one of the typical shopping center designs. Corridor may hanker for more midscale area’s most important intersections, a fact retailers, the plaza also serves neigh- that could play into the plaza’s future. Miami magazine to reimagine the plaza. Stephen Bittel. “My guess,” he says, “is borhoods to the west of the Boulevard, It’s a straight shot down 79th Street “Biscayne Boulevard and 79th Street is a that it will be a part of the most success- including Little Haiti and Little River. and across the causeway to Miami regional connector, from Hialeah straight ful part of retailing today, which is value As Bittel negotiates with potential Beach. Go west and you end up at the to North Beach.” or discount shopping, because consumers tenants, others look to the City of Miami Hialeah Park racetrack. “It’s the most Still, at the moment the plaza’s main of all levels — from the most wealthy to for help in mapping the area’s future. strategic intersection north of down- draw remains low-cost shopping. And the less wealthy — are interested in get- Ellen Uguccioni, the city’s historic pres- town,” says Allan Shulman, one of five any new tenants are likely to continue ting better value for their dollar. I think ervation officer, is preparing a report on architects invited in 2006 by Home in that mold, according to Terranova’s today we have a number of value chains Continued on page 18

16 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 17 Cover Story

Intersection Carbonell, a local historian, architect, Continued from page 16 and author. He has a special affection for the area as his early years were spent how many of the structures between 77th living just across the Little River. Street and 87th Street have the archi- By the late 1940s, developers tectural integrity to become part of the realized that the Little River area had historic district. Commissioner Marc Sar- become a vital center, its shops serving a noff requested the study. “I’ve heard the growing suburban community. “It was a

stretch of Biscayne Boulevard between Associates Courtesy of Shulman + thriving commercial area with theaters, 77th and 87th streets referred to as a rela- bakeries, and second only to downtown,” tive ‘no-man’s land’ by residents who feel says Carbonell. left out from all the positive attention and Plans for the center began in the growth that the MiMo Historic District early 1950s. “By early 1955, most of the has enjoyed,” Sarnoff writes in an e-mail. center was finished,” he notes. Car- “A number of residents in the Shorec- bonell, whose research encompasses old rest area have been interested in this idea newspaper stories and ads in addition to and it deserves to be explored,” he contin- personal experience, says some stores, ues. “If the study comes back and identifies Allan Shulman’s reimagined plaza: “Not only would it be redeveloped, it including the Neisner variety chain, properties within the additional ten blocks would turn into a new civic center for a new neighborhood.” advertised for an all-female staff: “They that should be preserved, then we should very much wanted housewives to come move forward. That is up to the experts architecturally unique,” he says, while squeezed city hall’s budget — meaning work for them.” to weigh in on, and I trust their decisions. noting it does have a few interesting completion of the historic-preservation Early tenants included J.C. Penney, As far as specific properties like Biscayne facets. “The problem is, preserving an report could take longer than anticipated. W.T. Grant, and the Lerner Shops. The Plaza and the Admiral Vee Motel, I’ll interesting minor component often pre- So nailing down big changes at the shop- plaza also attracted banks, drug stores, leave that up to the recommendations of cludes redevelopment or rebuilding. That ping center could be a protracted process. and popular restaurants like Junior’s. the historic preservation team.” is needed at the property, and it’s what Slow changes seem appropriate for MiMo experts say the center was also Bittel doesn’t think the plaza will the community wants.” a swath of land that was once a straw- designed to reflect the car culture sweep- make the MiMo cut. “I don’t think Yet the same recession that stalled berry farm. That’s the plaza’s early re- ing America and to harmonize with the there’s much at the property I would call the big development at the plaza has also corded beginnings, says Antolín García Continued on page 20

18 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 19 Cover Story

Intersection to the motel’s place in time. It’s easy to Continued from page 18 imagine vacationing families leaving the Admiral Vee, speeding over the cause- Biscayne Boulevard motels going up at way to the ocean early in the day, then the same time. later heading straight out 79th Street to “Miami’s first shopping plaza the Hialeah racetrack, which reopened was built at a location where increas- last year after a major makeover. ing numbers of auto-mobile residents However, the plaza’s reign was short. and seasonal vacationers converged,” Also in the mid-1950s, the 163rd Street writes Marilys Nepomechie, a professor Mall opened. “It pulled people away,” Car- of architecture at Florida International bonell says, noting that even in its heyday University, who contributed a chapter on the plaza was a working-class and middle- the plaza to Miami Modern Metropolis: class kind of place. “If we ever needed a Paradise and Paradox in Midcentury nicer outfit, we would go to Burdines.” Architecture and Planning. The book In addition, the area was quickly was edited by Allan Shulman. transforming into a red-light district. “Accordingly,” Nepomechie contin- “There was always a certain amount of ues, “it blended elements of commercial sleaze,” Carbonell recalls. and resort architecture to create a modern A search of Miami News archives composition at once functional and the- shows what he means. The Gaiety Club at atrical, calibrated for maximum appeal at 78th Street and Biscayne (hours 10:00 p.m. speeds both vehicular and pedestrian.” to 5:00 a.m.) was raided by the state at- The plaza, she explains, was the Glass-enclosed catwalks connect the main buildings, this one crossing torney’s office for running a crooked poker gateway to Miami’s “Motel Row.” She over NE 81st Street. game in which one fellow lost more than writes: “The structure was a celebration $38,000. Another Miami News item from of life as a dynamic proposition facili- Then in 1957 the Admiral Vee small resort,” Carbonell says. 1958 tells of “stripteuse” Gina Marie’s tated by the car; the automobile formed Motel opened. “It was one of about four The motel’s namesake was a upcoming appearance at the Gaiety. the unambiguous center of a composition or five motels along Biscayne Boulevard racehorse, a grandson of the great Man at once urban and suburban.” that tried to be full service, sort of like a O’War. The name also provides a clue Continued on page 22

20 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 21 Cover Story

Intersection in order to provide some memory of Continued from page 20 what this place is,” Shulman says, “it isn’t about preserving it in amber.” By the mid-1970s, says Carbonell, A key feature is the realization the whole intersection was adult enter- of Florida East Coast Railway’s long- tainment. Later came racial clashes. One discussed commuter line. In Shulman’s by one, stores pulled out. Also hurting vision, there would be a stop at the plaza, the shopping center was the decision to along with light rail on 79th Street, con- make NE 82nd Street one-way going necting the plaza with both Miami Beach west. Reversing that decades-old change and Hialeah Park. would be the first step in revitalizing the “There was a reason this was area, he says. placed here,” Shulman observes. “It’s the That road reversal was included in entrance to the City of Miami. It was a the Biscayne Plaza imaginary plan ar- hub. One of the things we increasingly chitect Allan Shulman created for Home think about is how Miami developed in a Miami magazine. Shulman has served on chaotic way, and the opportunity for the the Miami Beach Historic Preservation city going forward is to connect things. It Board, among other preservation groups, stimulates a more continuous urban life.” and has restored or designed renova- Shulman and his wife, Rebecca tions for a number of Miami area hotels Looking north from the former second-floor lobby of the Admiral Vee Stanier-Shulman, live not far from Bis- and other buildings, including Biscayne Motel, now Glasshaus Studios. cayne Plaza and have seen the Boulevard Boulevard’s Vagabond Motel and the transformed over the past several years. Sagamore Hotel in Miami Beach. He “Not only would it be redeveloped by replaces much the current parking area “It is increasingly getting the critical mass also is on the faculty of the University of retaining the old mall, but it would turn it with green space. A new mid-rise office as a neighborhood,” he says. “Now people Miami’s School of Architecture. into a new civic center for a new neighbor- tower would be at the front of the proper- are walking on the Boulevard. Biscayne Shulman envisioned the plaza finally hood,” he says. “It’s a strategy.” ty near the intersection of 79th Street and Boulevard has really sprung back to life.” taking its place as a regional axis, bringing Shulman’s plan adds another story the Boulevard. Three residential towers Upscale restaurants have moved in, together local communities, though using to most of the existing buildings, moves would overlook the Little River. “When while several motels have undertaken public transport as well as automobiles. parking to the top of one building, and you think about preserving the structure Continued on page 24

22 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 HUGE June Specials! ✁ Get Your Pool Ready for Summer BUY 2 LIQUID CHLORINE BOTTLES 25 lbs. of 3” 10% off GET ONE chlorine tablets Toys, Games, $58.99 and Floats FREE *With Coupon. Limit one per customer. Expires 6-30-2010 *With Coupon. Limit one per customer. Expires 6-30-2010 *With Coupon. Limit one per customer. Expires 6-30-2010

10% off Salt Chlorinators Automatic Pool Cleaners Specialty Chemicals starting at starting at - Seaklear, $999 .99 Yellow Treat *Expires 6-30-2010 $239 *With Coupon. Limit one per customer. Expires 6-30-2010 *Expires 6-30-2010

POOL CHECKUP FREE POOL CLEANING Free Automatic Inspect pool, equipment, pool Cleaner with lubricate o-rings, inspect pump, Buy 3 months complete remodel fi lter, heater and light. get the 4th *Thru June 30th , 2010. Within 12 months. Exp: 06/07/10 Residential only $39.99 month FREE! *Expires 6-30-2010 *Available to new customers only.

Sundance Spas Denali Model On Sale $3994 Regular $6695 Offer exp June 30th FREE $1400 Value package Ozone Purifi cation * Cover* Steps* Delivery & much more 780 & 880 Series spas only Free Seminars Every Third Saturday of the Month - 8:30 am 1st seminar - June 19th • MAINTENACE • HEATERS • REPAIRS • HOT TUBS “Treat your pool Right!” • REMODELING • SUPPLIES Water chemistry Keeping Customers Happy for Over 40 Years • SALT CHLORINATORS • OZONATORS FRee WAteR testInG 11720 Biscayne Blvd. • north Miami • FL 33181 • 305-893-4036 • allfl oridapool.com • service@allfl oridapool.com store Hours: Mon - sat 8:30am - 6pm | sun: 10am - 4pm

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 23 Cover Story

Intersection Continued from page 22 period-accurate restorations. Crime has fallen. Some in nearby neighbor- hoods credit historic designation for the changes — and believe continuing preservation northward would accelerate the trend. “Little by little, neighborhoods are going historic,” says Jack Spirk, president of the Shorecrest Homeown- ers Association. “Historic designation increases property values and also helps stabilize the market.” Spirk believes the plaza could be an anchor for the MiMo One of the staircases, in the exuberant MiMo style, A remnant of the old Neisner variety store, where a District, offering parking to visitors leading to the plaza’s second story. nickel actually had some buying power. while shuttles ferry them to shops and restaurants along the Boulevard. preservation efforts. “When you look at says that extending historic designation to Any plan to ambitiously redo the Plaza preservation proponents a property that big, you can’t possibly include the plaza and Admiral Vee would plaza, historic or no, will have to take underscore that they don’t favor freezing retain all of it,” she says. The key is to also lead to revitalization west of Bis- into account Ted Vernon of Ted Vernon “I have a very valuable piece of property because I’m on the water. If they want to develop and offer waterfront property, they have to own me.” the property in time. Stopping progress thoughtfully reuse structures, making cayne Boulevard. “Seventy-ninth Street Specialty Automobiles. When he’s not is not the point, says Teri D’Amico, an sure to protect key elements. D’Amico, is a pretty significant street, with a lot of hanging around low-budget movie sets, interior designer long involved in historic who helped introduce the term MiMo, historic buildings on it as well,” she says. Continued on page 26

24 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 25 Cover Story

Market Continued from page 24 he can be found, most days, in one of his three buildings along the Little River. Inside is a collection of vintage automo- biles that makes you want to reach for a fedora and highball. There is a whole flock of 1930s-era cars — Packards, Rolls-Royces, and Lincolns interspersed with Ford Model-Ts. But Vernon is not one of those laconic car guys. In fact he is irrepress- ible, a true character. Vernon’s various occupations have included, or include, The plaza’s second floor is virtually empty, but a Ted Vernon: “That shopping center should come professional wrestling and acting. He’s number of ground-floor businesses are bustling, down and something beautiful should be put in its a longtime film producer as well. On the including a Big Lots outlet. place. It’s horrible.” day a reporter comes to visit, he has just returned from playing an Everglades tour rejected their bid. Now he is in a legal “I think that shopping center should becoming the kind of live-work-play area guide who, let’s just say, would not be a battle, dating from 2005, with the come down and something beautiful should where mixed-use developments work. credit to the National Park Service, in a owners over access to his property, be put in its place,” says Vernon. “It’s not “It would be my guess that this [the film called Hell Glades. according to court documents. Vernon, something to preserve. It’s horrible.” plaza] is likely to be a redeveloped or “There are two ways of looking at it,” customers, delivery men, and visi- For his part, Bittel ventures a few rebuilt retail center for some time in the Vernon says. “I have a very valuable piece tors must pass along 81st Street or cut thoughts about the future. Miami is future,” he says. “What you can do is of property because I’m on the water. If through from 79th Street to get to the just in the beginning stages of transi- tempered by what the community will they want to develop and offer waterfront business. Neither Vernon nor Terrano- tioning from an auto-centric commu- support, what can be financed, and what property, they have to own me.” va’s Bittel would discuss the lawsuit, but nity to a more urban environment, he makes good business sense.” Biscayne Plaza’s owners, Vernon the men agree on one thing: No historic believes, and Biscayne Boulevard, for says, offered to buy his land, but he designation for the properties. all the recent activity, is nowhere near Feedback: [email protected]

26 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 27 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: BISCAYNE PARK Return to Sender Of all the mailboxes in all the towns, why did the Postal Service have to take ours? By Gaspar González beginning to fall and my Then one day it was gone. It was BT Contributor neighbors were walking sometime in February. Upon discovering their dogs or chatting its absence, I went over to village hall miss my mailbox. No, not the one with each other on the and inquired about it. “Oh, yes,” they at my house. I’m talking about the street. It became a happy told me, “the Postal Service came and I big blue baby that used to sit near ritual, and it made me got it.” Were they replacing it with a the corner of NE 113th Street and 9th feel connected to the newer one or was it gone for good? No Avenue, at the edge of our community community. (Okay, I one seemed to know. park. I noticed it the fi rst day we moved admit it — it also made A few days later, I had my answer. into the village, since A story in the Miami Herald (recycled it was only two from the Sun Sentinel) explained that blocks from my front I had a hard time believing that the the Postal Service, having suffered a door. Those fi rst few only mailbox within the village limits of nearly $4 billion shortfall in revenue in months, I took advan- Biscayne Park had so little traffi c that 2009, was declaring war on underused tage of the mailbox mailboxes. According to the article, it would qualify for removal. to drop off holiday Uncle Sam was targeting mailboxes that cards to friends and received fewer than 25 pieces of mail per family, business let- day. In Miami-Dade, that translated to ters, and the occasional bill payment. It me feel a little like about 270 box casualties. was convenient, and I liked having an quintessential ’60s sub- I had a hard time believing that my excuse to go for a walk around the block urban dad-slash-man of mailbox — the only mailbox within the in the middle of the day, a small respite mystery Don Draper, but village limits of Biscayne Park — had from being anchored to my desk at home. we’re all entitled to our so little traffi c that it would qualify for Sometimes I would make my mail little fantasies.) I came to run a little later, just as evening was love that damn box. Continued on page 29

Affordable Luxury Over the past 30 years, Saad Homes has built more than 250 custom luxury Custom Homes • Major Renovations • Additions homes and estates for business executives, entrepreneurs, investors, celebrities, and professionals in South Florida’s most distinguished neighborhoods, from Highly Personalized • Full Service • Joint Ventures Pinecrest to Palm Beach. Spec Homes • Investment • Commercial • Multifamily Now Saad Homes brings its decades of exacting standards and expertise in complex projects to the Biscayne Corridor’s prestigious island and waterfront WWW.SAADHOMES.COM communities. CURRENT PRICES 20% TO 30% LOWER With reduced demand and lower margins across the industry, our prices for new construction and major renovations are the lowest they’ve been in years.

[email protected] FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1979 “Our customers and business partners are sophisticated. They demand a high level of P: 305-829-8992 | F: 305-829-9109 competence and communication. We accept that their expectations will remain high, SAADHOMES CGC# 025768 and we work hard to surpass them.” – Angel Saad

28 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Neighborhood Correspondents: Biscayne Park

Sender that people — my wife, in particular me is at the corner of NE 102nd Street Sure, village residents could drive Continued from page 28 — still prefer to send the old-fashioned and 12th Avenue. And, no, that’s not a east to Biscayne Boulevard or north to way? A wired world may mean a lot typo. NE 102nd Street and 12th Avenue. NE 125th Street or, as I’m forced to do removal. I asked my mail carrier what less traditional mail is generated, but it Somehow a box located in a secluded now, the Miami Shores Post Office, but he thought. He told me that the box hasn’t made such correspondence extinct. residential area east of the Boulevard, that’s a pain. My mail carrier encour- had always collected a good amount Remember what my mail carrier told me with virtually no through traffic, has aged me leave outgoing mail for him in of mail, adding that the same was true — our box was doing a brisk business. managed to escape the Postal Service’s my residential mailbox, but that seems to of at least one other recently recalled I understand the Postal Service is careful study of underused boxes. (Or me to put an undue strain on him. What box on Biscayne Boulevard. Just as facing tough times. I might even agree maybe if you live in an upscale neigh- if he doesn’t have mail for me that day? I suspected: The Postal Service was that some mailboxes needed to go. But borhood close enough to the water, Should I still expect him to walk up my collecting boxes pell-mell. Biscayne why ours? We only had one. Compare you’re entitled to your own private mail driveway to see if I have mail for him? Park residents had been victimized by a that to Miami drop.) El Portal (Few of us have those mailboxes with the random repossession. Shores, which, has only little red flag.) Should he be expected to Now, I know what some will say: for a commu- Biscayne Park may now be the only one mailbox do that for every single home in Bis- The Internet has rendered snail mail nity its size, is municipality in all Miami-Dade without — outside cayne Park? What if I need a piece of a quaint relic. Nobody mails anything bulging with a mailbox. I don’t know about you, but village hall mail to get out before one o’clock? anymore. In this age of electronic mail, boxes. Count that makes me feel like a second-class — but then, I want my mailbox back. I’m not PINs, and online banking, there’s no ’em: There’s citizen. there’s a large alone. The village commission passed need to ever lick an envelope. But it one on Park post office a resolution a few months back asking isn’t true. For starters, not everyone has Drive at NE just beyond the Postal Service to return it. So far, no joined the Internet revolution. Many 94th Street, one the village response. Perhaps, as I’ve already heard older and lower-income residents don’t at the corner of NE 95th Street and 2nd limits at NE 84th Street. from some corners, you can’t fight the even own a computer. Avenue, another at the corner of NE That leaves only Biscayne Park Postal Service. But we can try. Who And even those of us who do most of 96th Street and 4th Avenue, and the residents without easy access to a public knows? Maybe a letter-writing campaign our communicating, shopping, and bill- bank of drive-through mailboxes on NE mailbox. In fact Biscayne Park may now would work, even if we do have to drive paying via the Internet usually have one 98th Street, just across from, oh what’s be the only municipality in all of Miami- into the Shores to send the message. or two items every month we drop in the that place called, the post office. Dade County without such a box. I don’t mail. And what about invitations, photos, That’s enough to give anyone mail- know about you, but that makes me feel thank-you notes, and all the other things box envy, but the one that really gets like a second-class citizen. Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 29 Neighborhood Correspondents: Belle Meade Coming to a Halfway House Near You How many sexual offenders have been relocated to your neighborhood? By Frank Rollason clearly stating that she did not have a BT Contributor solution at hand. She was there to listen, to gather suggestions, and then move he relocation of homeless sex offend- forward to develop a plan to resolve ers from under the Julia Tuttle Cause- the matter. It poured rain that night, Tway bridge has sparked a backlash which caused Book to run late, so David from homeowners in the Upper Eastside, Raymond, executive director of the in particular the Shorecrest neighborhood, Homeless Trust, spoke first, providing an where 13 of the offenders have been placed. overview of the Trust’s role in the reloca- Residents’ concerns were first aired at a tion process. well-attended Town Hall meeting on April Raymond gave a concise synopsis of 21, which was covered by the BT (“Mr. the actions taken by the Trust to elimi- Mayor, Can You Please Tell Them To Be nate the filthy squatters’ village that had Quiet?” May 2010). evolved under the causeway bridge. Just At the meeting, residents learned as he was finishing, Book entered the au- from Miami City Commissioner Marc ditorium. It was all downhill from there. Sarnoff that the city had no control another community meeting to address chairman of the county’s Homeless Trust. For those who don’t know Ron Book, over the relocation of the offenders, that the subject. It took place May 17 at Months earlier Book had stepped forward perhaps the most influential political it was entirely a county issue. Subse- Legion Park. to help solve the problem of homeless sex lobbyist in Florida, suffice to say that he quently, county Commissioner Audrey The star of the show was not the com- offenders, which had garnered embarrass- is an expert on just about any topic you Edmonson received numerous e-mails missioner or the other dignitaries in at- ing national headlines. Now she wanted might want to discuss. He made it abun- and phone calls from citizens complain- tendance, including Miami Mayor Tomás him to explain how 13 offenders ended up dantly clear that he was better informed ing about the concentrated grouping of Regalado, Commissioner Sarnoff, and in Shorecrest. than anyone in the room on the subject of sexual offenders in one small commu- state Rep. Ronald Brisé. Rather the star Commissioner Edmonson began the nity. Edmonson responded by organizing was Edmonson’s invited guest, Ron Book, meeting by welcoming everyone and Continued on page 31

30 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Neighborhood Correspondents: Belle Meade

Halfway House could be more simple! This made everyone feel a lot better, relocations and found that there are Continued from page 30 It was a despicable display of grand- though it caused Commissioner Edmon- 14 offenders within a half square mile standing by Book, especially when son to twitch a little as another tire from and 63 within one square mile. The 13 sexual offenders and predators. compared to the manner in which David the proverbial bus ran across her back. relocated to Shorecrest are all serious He’d been through a terrible ordeal Raymond addressed the residents earlier in In response to a murmur from the sexual predators, according to Ron Book involving a predator (a female nanny) the evening. Book should have folded his crowd about how many sexual offenders — “real bad guys,” as he put it. who lived in his home and assaulted his tent, sat at the dais, and allowed the public to had been relocated to Coconut Grove, One young mother pleaded for help: daughter for several years. “So don’t you speak and the elected officials to respond. where Sarnoff lives, the commissioner “I cannot walk the streets around my tell me about the pain and the anguish,” Mayor Regalado presented a some- commented that he empathized with the home without my husband with me. he snapped, “because I have lived through what disjointed discourse on the history of residents because he lives on a block This is not me, this is not how I want to it and know it better than any of you!” the Homeless Trust, from the time when with four offenders and that hordes of live!” Even when prodded by a vocifer- Well, that introduction certainly set Miami police violated the civil rights them live within a half-mile of his home. ous resident demanding to hear from his the tone for the rest of the evening. One of the homeless, resulting in the now A subsequent check on the Florida elected officials, who sat silent before resident after another attempted to voice infamous Pottinger Agreement, which for Department of Law Enforcement website their constituents, only Commissioner their frustrations and worries, only to be years has tied the city’s hands in dealing (updated daily) showed exactly one of- Edmonson responded. rebuked by Book, who acted as a buffer with the homeless street population. fender located within a half square mile of But then the resident was cut off between the exasperated residents and the Book opined that he didn’t think the the commissioner’s home and two within by Book, who taunted the man to elected officials, who sat mum on the dais. Pottinger Agreement was all that bad and one square mile. So either a bunch moved “heap your complaints and insults Book went on and on about how up- that “we have it and we are living with out or a bunch moved in over the course upon me, sir. I am paid the big bucks standing the politicians were and how won- it.” Sort of like living with a fatal disease of 24 hours, depending upon whose stats to take your abuse!” derful the Homeless Trust is, and then he until it kills you. you want to believe. (An elected official All in all, it was a pretty pathetic show, finally got around to Commissioner Edmon- Then a member of the audience asked who lives in a gated community, has no hardly a shining example of how to solicit son’s question: How did 13 sexual offenders question about a different constitutional children, and has just two offenders lo- input from the public to address a very real end up being housed in Shorecrest? issue. This gave Commissioner Sarnoff cated within a square mile of his home is problem and work on a solution. I applaud Book’s response: “We ran the the opportunity sidestep the constitutional going to find it difficult to elicit sympathy Commissioner Edmonson for calling the Shorecrest ZIP code and it just popped issue but emphasize again that the county from a room full of residents who were meeting, but next time she should leave the up as an eligible site. So I drove it and had full responsibility for the sexual of- obviously at wit’s end.) experts at home and just listen. determined that it would be a good fit fender/predator issue and that it was not I also searched a specific Shorec- to relocate the sexual predators.” What the responsibility of the City of Miami. rest residence in the vicinity of the Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 31 Neighborhood Correspondents: Miami at Large Miami Makes the Grade After months of diligent studying, it’s time for a report card By Wendy Doscher-Smith I give Miami an A- for weather. I’m BT Contributor sorry, Miami, but I’m docking you for extreme summer heat and humidity. returned to this city from a year-plus Otherwise I’m sold. So work on that, will stint in the Merciless Un-Frozen ya? Really. It’s so indulgent and adoles- I Tundra (MUFT), otherwise known as cent to be that muggy for that long. Binghamton, New York, five months ago. As we know, the sun shines in Now it’s time for my Miami report. Let’s Miami. A lot. That means you can wear make that Miami’s report card. This is next to nothing, which makes for a thin- particularly fitting since I am here at- Doscher-Smith BT photo by Wendy ner population, which arguably makes tending school. And not just any school. for a healthier population. Okay, I said Ahhhhrt school. But we’ll get to that. arguably. Which leads me to the next Plus I am leaving for the summer category: aesthetic appeal. to go back to the MUFT. (Insert requi- We all know Miami is no slacker in site groaning, whining, bitching, and that arena. Hell, the world knows that. suicide threats from previous columns. The funny thing is, even if people don’t Or if you’re the impatient type, just wait arrive here fit and thin (they usually for the next column because I’ll be at it don’t), many inevitably end up that way. again with fresh gripes.) that is fair. So I’m going to apply this includes three elements I’ll use: weather, A coincidence? I think not. In one of my ahhhrt school photog- rule to how I grade Miami. aesthetic appeal, and socioeconomic Just sip on sun and ocean cock- raphy classes, when we hand in assign- But since we’re talking about a city, climate. This means I am going to have tails, nibble on palm tree fronds, and ments to be shredded like a gazelle I’m skipping creativity and technical to add three grades in order to arrive colon cleanse with copious amounts of outrun by lions, uh, I mean critiqued, we skill as grading criteria, although I could at one final one. That’s math! And my peer pressure to look perfect for a few are graded equally on creativity and on make an argument to include them. I’m grades in math were…. Well, I’ll just do technical skill. It’s a 50/50 split. I think going to consider “environment,” which the best I can. Continued on page 33

District 108 Town Hall Meeting with Representative Ronald Brisé

Tuesday, June 8, 2010 El Portal Village Hall 500 N.E. 87th Street, El Portal Wednesday, June 9, 2010 Sunkist Grove Community Center 12500 N.W. 13th Avenue, North Miami 6:30 – 7:30 Discussion on laws passed during 2010 session by Florida Legislature Refreshments will be served.

Office of State Representative Ronald Brisé (305) 623-3600 915 N.E. 125th Street, Suite 107 [email protected] Tuesday, June 8

32 l lBiscayne ill Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Neighborhood Correspondents: Miami at Large

Grade What’s a Miamon? Well, it’s sort Miamon example #3: You are in line is so much better, please move back, Continued from page 32 of like a tampon, only human and with at a certain smoothie place. There is a slush your way around Broadway and fewer brain cells. I know what you are woman in front of you who is insisting to the museums in the winter, sweat on weeks and I swear the pounds will melt thinking. Since Miamons are every- the cashier shorted her by five cents. The the germ-infested subways during the away like that ice cream cone that once where, how do you identify one and cashier has explained that did not happen summer, and give us space) and…and was a yummy treat and is now a sticky therefore know which behavior to not and reviewed the receipt a few times to that’s it. fright in your hand. Now do you see emulate? Let me provide a few, brief, prove it. There are eight people behind On the down side we have a lot of why I’m taking points off for weather? anecdotal situations: you in line. They are beginning to growl. Entitled Douche Bags roaming around. Tsk, tsk! (Be forewarned: The following are The nickel-hungry woman won’t shut up, The Entitled Douche Bags or EDBs vary But why, assuming you munch not fictional. And they all happened get out of the way, and let other people slightly from the Miamons. Not every on subtropical vegetation, drink salty within a week. Repeatedly.) order. (Note: Being inconsiderate is a Miamon has four Lamborghinis or five water, and get insulted or intimidated Miamon example #1: You are trying hallmark of the Miamon.) trust funds or eight servants or a ten- continuously by hot women, will you to pull out of a parking spot. Simple, I could go on. Point is, you won’t be bedroom house. But every EDB is, by lose weight? Duh! It’s the Miamet! Get right? Not so fast. Literally. Because able to totally avoid the Miamons. You definition, a Miamon. it? Miami + Diet = Miamet. Maaaybe there is a person standing behind you. cannot outsmart them. And no, sorry to Confused? Fine. Let’s move on. I’m not so bad at math after all! If On their cell phone. Oblivious. (Note: say, listening solely to public radio and Diversity = A. Cultural offerings = you don’t get it, it may be too late for This characteristic of living in a state of sticking to bookstores won’t save you. So B. EDBs = F. So what’s the total? Hold you. (See “Miamon” below.) I’ve seen sheer oblivion is a fundamental trait of at least try not to become one. on while I punch these letters into my Miamet affect women and men of all the Miamon.) When I factor the Miamet and calculator. Oh, I can’t do that. Should ages and ethnicities. Miamon example #2: You live in Miamons into Miami’s overall grade, I have assigned numerical grades. An A- Of course, you need to exercise more a condo and the fire alarm goes off at have to assign an A for the Miamet and for weather, a B for aesthetic appeal and than your jaw muscles once you go on 4:00 a.m. You call the front desk and an F for Miamons. That’s a C. Add in the a C- for socioeconomic climate. So 90 + the Miamet. I’m talking about exercis- ask if this is a real fire or yet another A- for weather and we have a B? But I’m 83 + 70 = 243, divided by 3 = 81. ing caution. Alert level: Orange. See, if false alarm. The person manning the still grading. There you have it. Miami by the you are not careful, after a few weeks front desk tells you they will check with And now I am considering socioeco- numbers. Final grade: B. on the Miamet, you risk morphing into “security” and call you back in five nomic factors within the environment. Hmmm. Maybe I should have re- a Miamon. And while every action has minutes. (Note: The that blatant stupid- Well, this gets tricky. Miami scores ceived better grades in math. its consequences, this one in particular ity and disregard for human life are both well for diversity, cultural offerings (oh, should be avoided at all costs. Miamon traits.) shut up NYC-ers. If you think NYC Feedback: [email protected] CA$H FOR GOLD

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 33 Neighborhood Correspondents: Miami Shores Home-Field Advantage — For All It’s Worth It’s not whether you win or lose, it’s — forget that! By Jen Karetnick countywide, kid-pitch baseball league BT Contributor that Miami Shores takes part in, home- field advantage means you can cheat, ately I’ve been thinking about prevaricate, and verbally abuse the chil- home. I mean home as in Miami dren under your care. LShores, not home as in the town To their credit, the coaches from the of my birth. Maybe it’s because this year, Miami Shores teams have stayed remark- I haven’t traveled much at all. Discount- ably cool-headed in the face of outright ing quick trips to the New Jersey-New game-theft. But then, the Miami Shores York area to visit family or attend social ball club managers weren’t the ones events, I haven’t stayed in one place so indulging their inner poor sports. Those long since I was pregnant with my son. with such impressive tantrum routines, He’s ten in October. the John McEnroes of the diamond, who Still, for someone who adores travel- try to convince umpires that a run scores ing, I’ve enjoyed just as much being on a third out and who deliberately home. I know that sounds contradic- miscount the stats out loud to confuse tory, but for 13 years I worked out of my matters in their favor — those coaches house, spending days at a time writing hail from Coral Gables. in my office, where my desk is parked We got our first taste of the Coral under a window that looks directly into Gables coaches’ determination to win at the dense greenness of a sapodilla tree. all and any costs one extremely hot Sat- These days I value whatever time I various sports activities. And now that Home-field advantage to parents urday afternoon. The kids had already actually get at home, which is very little. my children have joined the circuit of means you don’t have to fight the been playing for an hour and 35 minutes; If I’m not in my home-away-from-home young, traveling athletes, I have another commute. But I’ve discovered that for at school, I’m driving my kids to their way to think about home. some coaches, especially those in the Continued on page 35

34 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Neighborhood Correspondents: Miami Shores

Advantage minutes before we can officially call the about ten cans of Silly String all over the team!” this maniac likes to shout. Continued from page 34 game,” they told us. If you leave before Miami Shores field, and their coaches As a former athlete, an occasional a game is called, you’re walking out and seemed oblivious to the mess it made. In coach, a full-time educator, and always, games are scheduled for one hour and that’s a forfeit. We stayed. the end, a couple of parents made a half- always, always a mom, I have a serious 20 minutes. Coral Gables, in its final ups But after the 15 minutes was up, they hearted attempt to get the kids to clean problem with an overwrought adult telling at bat, had failed to score the necessary changed the rules and said we needed up after themselves, then one caring any nine-year-old kid to deliberately step runs to win. So we started to cheer and to wait half an hour. “It’s going to pass mom did the rest of the job herself. into a badly pitched hard ball so he can rise — only to sink down in disbelief over,” they said. By this point a dozen Still, what concerns me most is how be beaned and gain first base. That’s not when the umpires signaled for another adolescents in the dugout were push- the Coral Gables coaches scream at their the way to play. That’s the way to lose a inning. Apparently you don’t leave a ing, squirming, climbing the fence, and players if they fail to steal a base or if perfectly good set of teeth because you fol- Coral Gables baseball game until you throwing baseballs at each other’s heads they don’t round third and head home lowed such stupid advice. You’re supposed lose. So that’s precisely what our hot, — accidentally, of course. It was also even if the pitcher has the ball and the to try to hit the ball, not get hit by it. sweaty, and bewildered boys of prema- 7:30 at night. So we grabbed our kids play technically is dead. The ploy is to Of course, we’re also talking about ture summer did. They played until they and got them in the cars just before the tempt inexperienced pitchers to throw the same guy who lied to his team the lost. Then the game was over and we clouds broke open to flood U.S. 1 with (or overthrow, which is what usually last time they played Miami Shores, could all go home to soothe their nine- several inches of rain in under an hour. It happens) home and keep the play in telling them they tied when they actually year-old souls. was a helluva drive home. perpetual motion, and the umps either lost. If the tie were an actuality, our boys Another venture to Coral Gables Meanwhile, in my mind, I see the don’t realize the ball went back to the would have taken their last ups, but we ended during the top of the third inning, other team still sitting there, their cleats mound or, if the game is in the Gables, didn’t have to because we were lead- when a thunderstorm blew in. Rather soaking in puddles, hungry and shiver- don’t care. ing. Fortunately for this coach, none of we thought it had ended. But this time ing while their coaches congratulated Other times, if the batter doesn’t his players figured this out. In a case of Coral Gables was winning. So even them on waiting us out, because of take a cut at a strike, you can hear one City Beautiful versus Village Beautiful, though thunder was rumbling, electric- course “there’s no crying in baseball.” of them screech, “Swing that stick! we may lose more often than not when ity was streaking across the sky, the first Even when you get hit in the head with a You’ve got a stick in your hands! Use it comes to baseball runs. But when it fat drops were falling, and it was clear baseball. Or lightning. it — you’re not a lawn ornament to just concerns karma and IQ points? Whether from both bruised horizon and iPhone Nor was their behavior any better stand there!” Worse, however, is when home or away, Miami Shores is clearly in radar that we were in for a dangerous when they were the visiting team. On the pitch goes awry and the batter the lead. South Florida washout, the rival coaches one occasion, celebrating a teammate’s flinches. “Don’t back away from the insisted we stay. “You have to wait 15 birthday, the Gables players sprayed plate! Lean into it! Take one for the Feedback: [email protected]

MIAMI BEACH DECO - 4445 Adams Avenue Breathtaking home on oversized corner lot. Over 4,400 sq ft with 5bd/5.5ba. CONSIDERING BUYING or SELLING? Renovated in 2009 with new gourmet kitchen, wood and terrazzo floors, gorgeous Master suite with large walk in closets and steam shower. Walking SPECIALIZING IN SAVING YOU MONEY! distance to Temples. This is a must see! Owner motivated. $1,387,000 Call NOW for all Your Real Estate Needs! BOBBY CONSOLO ® GOLF COURSE VIEWS 261 NE 105th Street REALTOR-ASSOCIATE Peaceful Aventura Townhome in Great Location! This Miami Shores Delvista right on the Golf course. Charmer has been beautifully 305.799.5053 2BD/2.5BA, new kitchen with granite renovated. 2BD/1BA with 1 car garage. counter top, wood floors, wet bar, and A deal at $297,000. [email protected] patio. $274,000

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 35 Community News Grab a Paddle and Ride the Dragon An ancient Chinese sport finds a home in modern Miami By Terence Cantarella getting exercise Chen participates in local races BT Contributor — that to me is a twice a year. He competed in Tampa last no-brainer.” month, raced in New York last August, n the quiet Oleta River in North Trotter and and travels to Hong Kong every year Miami Beach, where tall man- wife Kate Benson for an annual dragon-boat festival there Ogrove forests grow along the joined Puff just (seven Puff members will accompany ancient shorelines and block out the two months ago, him this summer). The sport has even noise of the city beyond, a nine-person but like many shaped his world view. “Putting a bunch BT photo by Terence Cantarella BT photo by Terence crew sits in a long, hand-painted boat, newbies, they’ve of people in a boat and having them work waiting for an order. Bent forward, arms quickly become together toward the same goal,” he con- poised at the ready, their fists clench long diehard dragon- tends, “makes the world a better place. If wooden paddles. A steersman, standing at boaters. And you want world peace, everyone should the stern, grips the skiff’s rudder by the even though a go dragon-boating.” handle and issues his command: “Go!” competitive streak Dragon-boating, in fact, may be the The crew lets loose, plunging their runs through the biggest sport you’ve never heard of. In paddles into the murky water, using heart of the team, 2006 Time magazine reported that “more the strength of their upper bodies to Benson insists the than 75 dragon-boat festivals were held push their 40-foot Chinese dragon boat niche sport is as The Puff crew digs into the Oleta River. in 31 states and 70 cities across the coun- upriver. The vessel glides along at try, with participation up 20 percent over an impressive speed, each paddler Founded seven years ago by Michael 2004, to 54,000 people.” More recent pummeling the water in sync until, Chen, Puff is one of about five dragon- surveys show considerable increases in 250 meters along, the steersman boat racing teams in Miami-Dade County those numbers, and the sport has been calls for an intermission. “Let it and currently boasts some 50 permanent called one of the fastest-growing water ride!” he yells. members, ranging from buff, young out- sports in the world, with annual festivals

The paddles come up, the pad- Photo courtesy of Puff door enthusiasts to well-ripened weekend being held in more than 50 countries. dlers catch their breath, and peace warriors (including a 73-year-old part- Begun in China, dragon-boating returns to the winding waterway time paddler). Some members show up arose more than 2000 years ago as a — until they repeat the drill mo- to the weekly training runs religiously. way to appease mystical river dragons ments later. Others, only occasionally. who had sovereignty over water, rain- Every weekend the scene plays As a young man in Hong Kong, fall, and floods. Tied in to that yearly out the same way. The Puff Dragon watching dragon-boat races from the custom is the legend of Qu Yuan, a Boat Racing Team (Puff, for short) window of his home, Chen was never patriotic poet who drowned himself in races their dragon up and down the The boats feature a dragon head at the too impressed with the sport. “Too damn a river after the defeat of his homeland placid Oleta until — as they like to bow and a tail at the stern. slow,” he thought. It wasn’t until many by a rival army. The dramatic bard’s say — they’ve drained their tanks. years later, living in South Florida and suicide fell on the day of the annual That an ancient Chinese sport much a social affair as it is a sports bout: looking for a way to get outdoors and re- dragon-boat festival and villagers are should find a home on an urban river in “There’s a lot of camaraderie. And it’s connect with his cultural heritage, that he said to have raced out in their dragon North Miami Beach may seem strange still kind of underground, so you feel like decided to take up dragon-boating. That’s boats to look for him, tossing rice to some, but to 27-year-old Biscayne you’re part of a club. Besides, what other when he realized just how satisfying — dumplings into the river to distract fish Park resident Sam Trotter, it makes team sport can you do where you get to and fast — racing dragons can be. “You from eating his body. perfect sense: “South Florida, being be out on the water? This is Miami. Don’t don’t realize how fast it is until you’re in outside on the water, meeting people and you want to be out on the water?” the boat,” he says. Continued on page 40

36 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Community News How Does Your Garden Grow? If it’s that untidy heap of a thing at Midtown Miami, very, very slow By Erik Bojnansky time you have construction, you have a BT Contributor little bit of confusion and aggravation.” Tired of seeing what he calls medio- ast year publicists for Midtown cre landscaping work, Nelson, a 30-year Miami promised that a “true fan- veteran of the industry who says his Ltasy spectacle” with an “endless BT photo by Silvia Ros client list has included the late Gianni arrays of blossoms and texture” would Versace and “Hollywood directors and be completed in the spring of 2010 and playwrights,” dreamed of building a “leave you speechless.” As envisioned string of public gardens across the nation by landscape architect Harry Nelson, that would showcase different styles, “World Gardens at Midtown Miami” invite public participation, and educate would consist of an array of international a new generation of landscape designers. garden styles crammed into a vacant He teamed up with former client José 2.5-acre parcel that would also include a Acosta, a computer software engineer 100-foot-long reflecting pool, art exhibi- who felt Miami needed more green space. tions, poetry readings, even free concerts. Samuel, who also previously em- (See “Gardens Grow in Midtown — At ployed Nelson as a landscaper, leased Least for Now,” BT, December 2009.) them a vacant piece of land owned by her Now it’s summer and the park isn’t boss, Joe Cayre, principal of Midtown finished. In fact, it doesn’t appear to be Landscaper Harry Nelson: “Everything in life is computed in dollars and Equities, for three years at a dollar a year, even close to finished. cents, but this is about education and enjoyment.” including free water, electricity, and secu- Instead of a fantasy spectacle, there rity services. (Midtown Equities built are large tangles of trees and shrubs, crew of people working,” says Heidy Nelson, though, asserts that after most of Midtown Miami, except for the many of which are still potted, and Andradem, a 33-year-old resident of the personal and logistical setbacks, work is Shops at Midtown. Located to the west, several large mounds of dirt ranging in Midtown 2 condo. now proceeding at World Gardens. He along N. Miami Avenue, the Shops at color from white to brown to black. An Andradem says that when she first says his sister’s death this past October, Midtown were developed by Ohio-based above-ground “pond” (really a large moved to Midtown several months ago, record-breaking cold snaps, and a lack Developers Diversified Realty.) tank) sits in the middle of the evolving the parcel was just being dug up. She’s of suitable soil have contributed to the Once the real estate market turns World Gardens; work on the reflect- moving out this month. “I was hoping delays. “I watched my sister die for nine around, Midtown Equities plans to ing pool has barely begun. Irrigation [World Gardens] would be done in two months,” he recounts. “This garden is develop an entertainment complex where hoses snake across the property, while weeks,” she says, “but it took forever and going to be dedicated to her.” Thanks World Gardens is now rising, but until patches of mud border uneven paths cut it looks like crap.” to significant donations of soil, Nelson then, Nelson’s “prototype” would high- by tractors and trucks. Towering above The lack of progress also troubles assures that development of the garden light several distinct garden styles: Italian, the plants, dirt piles, and scattered Jeff Shimonski, director of horticulture is now on track and that it should be English, French, Spanish, Japanese, and equipment are a number of trees, some at Jungle Island and the BT’s garden substantially finished by July. what he refers to as modern, fantasy, and close to 75 feet tall, many of them still columnist. “It seems very haphazard, like Deborah Samuel, director of opera- tropical. bound with rope, some having lost all there’s no plan,” Shimonski says, having tions at Midtown Miami, says Nelson has At some point Acosta backed away their leaves. recently visited the site. “It’s just piles of struggled not only with personal tragedy from the project. Contacted by the BT, Many Midtown residents and fill all over the place.” Worse, Shimonski but also with broken promises. “A lot of Acosta says he relocated to California business owners are wondering what’s fears for the long-term health of some of people who were committed [to World to find work. His earlier responsibilities up. “For months they would move the trees: “They should not be tied up or Gardens] in the beginning did not neces- plants here and there. I never saw a big cut back like they have been.” sarily come through,” she says. “Any Continued on page 41

The Scott Galvin Guarantee It’s your office. Every phone call, letter and email gets returned. Every time. If you want to speak to www.Galvin2010.com me, you will. Guaranteed. Democratic Primary, Vote August 24th Approved and paid for by Galvin for Congress.

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 37 Community News Women Helping Women Helping Wynwood From a small group of five came a big idea for many By John Hood Factory. Now, backed by WOW, the two Special to BT are not only gainfully employed, they’ve moved out of Lotus House and into n a clear and steamy Tuesday homes of their very own. evening in the middle of May, a If Goldman, Margulies, and the rest Oswarm of Miami’s most active of the women have their way, Jones and art operatives assembled in a vast Roseborough will be but the first in a long compound known as Whale & Star. The line similar success stories. “Ideally there’d BT photo by Jacqueline Doulis 18,000-square-foot warehouse is the be three teams of two [full-time staffers],” headquarters of artist Enrique Martinez adds Goldman, “and enhance that with Celaya, who’d thrown open his massive some additional part-time help, depending doors on behalf of a cause that, over the on what’s going on in the neighborhood.” past half year, has become near and dear As anyone who frequents the monthly to the neighborhood known as Wynwood. gallery nights knows, a lot is going on in the (For more about Martinez Celaya, see neighborhood. In fact the art scene indirectly page 44.) gave rise to WOW, which is itself a sort of That cause is the Women of Wyn- Dina Mitrani, Glendina Roseborough, Thea Goldman, and Shawntina offshoot of the 150-member Wynwood Arts wood, and it could very well serve as a Jones: With a $100,000 grant, the Women of Wynwood are looking at a District Association (WADA), which Gold- blueprint for other sections of town. bright future. man co-chairs with developer David Lombardi, Formed in November of last year who has long held a considerable stake in the after five neighborhood activists per- initiative that has been putting homeless our streets, clean our streets, and market area. WADA’s primary goal — promoting and suaded 100 like-minded women to chip men and women to work since 1992. our streets.” And they’d use Lotus House protecting the neighborhood through, among in $250 each in order to better serve Like SoHo, Wynwood is a former indus- residents to do so. other things, clean, safe, and marketable streets the burgeoning arts neighborhood, the trial neighborhood that’s become a center At the beginning, WOW fielded a — are now WOW’s goals too. Women of Wynwood (WOW) is, at of art and culture. Unlike SoHo, however, staff of ten part-time employees who Then there are individual efforts, its core, an employment program for Wynwood has perhaps more than its fair acted as “ambassadors” for the neighbor- such as the one undertaken by Butter homeless women. At large, though, it’s share of homeless. Part of the reason is hood while keeping the streets “cleaner Gallery owner Francisco De La Torre an effective way to beautify a bustling the numerous state- and city-run agen- than Lincoln Road.” Eventually, though, (better known as Paco), whose plan to section of town and save a few lives at cies located within the neighborhood’s they decided to switch to two full-time donate a portion of the bar proceeds the same time. boundaries. Another might be its proxim- staffers. “The thing is, a part-time job taken in at each month’s art walk has The initial five consisted of Thea ity to Overtown. Mostly, though, it’s doesn’t get anyone out of homelessness; expanded to include Arte 23, Dot Gallery, Goldman, Yvette Garcia, Nina Johnson, simply that homelessness is a fact of life a full-time job does,” says Goldman. and Plant the Future. Dina Mitrani, and Rhonda Mitrani — in Miami. “And these two have become fully eman- Of course it takes more than a few each deeply involved in Wynwood, Gold- So what to do? Well, if you’re like cipated as a result of this program.” hundred thirsty arts patrons to finance man as owner/operator of Joey’s Italian Thea Goldman and Constance Margulies, The two Goldman is referring to are a program like WOW, which was the restaurant, the other four as gallery heads. you do whatever it takes. Shawntina Jones and Glendina Rosebor- impetus behind the get-together at Whale Each also happens to be highly persua- After raising the initial $25,000, Gold- ough, who have both been with WOW & Star. Seems that Miami City Com- sive. So when Goldman approached the man got with Margulies, who runs Over- since its inception. Jones had been missioner Marc Sarnoff has also taken a others with the concept, it didn’t take town’s Lotus House shelter for women employed by the Port of Miami before liking to WOW and WADA, and to prove long for them to put it into play. and children, and together they created the complicating circumstances brought it he came through with a check for a Goldman says she was inspired by “job pilot program” that is WOW. Gold- her to Lotus House. Roseborough had the SoHo Partnership, the New York City man says their goals were clear: “Secure a long-time job at the Russell Plating Continued on page 40

38 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Community News Two Communities, One School Parents from very different backgrounds have transformed Morningside Elementary By Margaret Griffis many parents began to lose hope (and BT Contributor considered sending their kids to private schools), Paris was removed as principal n ethnic, socio-economic, and in 2006 following allegations of physi- geographic divide once threat- cally abusing a teacher. Aened to undermine Morningside John-Louissant took over as principal Elementary School, but a new garden for the 2006-2007 school year and created could be the olive branch that brings a bridge between the two groups of par- BT photo by Jacqueline Doulis families and administrators together. ents. Since then Morningside has earned Michael Loveland is a local educator a consistent “B” grade and successfully and professional sculptor who has one implemented a dual-language magnet pro- child enrolled at the school and another gram offering French, Spanish, and Hai- on the way. He’s also a vice president of Michael Loveland, Bindi Loveland, and Sonya Ballard with Morningside tian Kreyol as part of daily coursework. the Parent Teacher Association, which Elementary student stars Amelie Subirats, Amanda Zion Fischer, Israel One parent, Dr. Marilyn Csete, who has been instrumental in the school’s Zion, and Tajah Zion. is a member of the school’s Educational turnaround the past several years. His Excellence School Advisory Council and latest PTA project is a major overhaul late April, nearly 200 volunteers, mostly into more affluent neighborhoods east a former Morningside Elementary student of the school grounds. “I’ve been to so UM students, helped plant the trees in a of the school — Bayside, Morningside, herself, witnessed the growing pains: many schools that don’t have nice cam- single day. But because the extra palms Belle Meade, Palm Grove — the principal “What happened to Morningside, with all puses,” Loveland says. “Areas like this weren’t on the approved site plan, custodi- seemed to be running her own personal of the refugees that came in, is that you had can be utilized better.” ans ripped out about half of them and piled fiefdom and, they believed, she had very a group of parents who aren’t tremendously Part of the grounds now consists of them behind the school. Several parents low expectations for the students in her visible. If those who know the system don’t 8-by-8-foot planter boxes, one for each notified Loveland of the potential disaster. care. A rift began to develop along ethnic advocate as a group together [with immi- grade level. Teachers and students work Eventually Loveland picked up about and economic lines, pitting east against grant parents], it doesn’t happen.” on the plots throughout the year, growing 85 trees that weren’t replanted, repotted west, rich against poor, new families During the 2008-09 school year, 62 vegetables and other plants. Static areas them himself, and is tending to them at his against established ones. Nothing less than percent of the students attained “high elsewhere on the campus are home to a home. He hopes by autumn the school will control of the school was at stake, and the standards in reading.” They also reached native hammock and a fruit orchard. A find new spots for them on campus, or the children’s futures hung in the balance. 68 and 83 percent in math and writing, wetlands marsh was planted in a flood- PTA may sell them at a fundraiser. With the advent of standardized test- respectively. Clearly, increased parental prone location. Says Loveland: “My While he admits to a bad lapse in ing, some parents’ worst fears appeared involvement is working. biggest goal for all this plant life to be communication, Loveland also praises the to be confirmed. Morningside Elementary Csete is thrilled with the new garden put in the school was foremost to teach current administration, headed by principal earned a “D” grade in its first report card. and loves the “warmer, multicultural these kids respect for nature, to change Kathleen John-Louissaint, for its open at- From 2001 to 2005, the school improved environment” that is unique to the school. the mentality of these kids, that food just titude in allowing parents an involved role to a “C,” which was still unacceptably She wants to continue working with the doesn’t come from Publix, that it grows in school affairs. This was not always so at low to the affluent parents. They tried to administration to make Morningside on trees. You have to nurture [the fruits Morningside, which is located in the Palm work with Paris. While she was not as an “A” school academically, a coveted and vegetables] and take care of them, and Grove neighborhood between Biscayne openly caustic as the principal at Coconut honor she believes is within reach. It can they’ll take care of you.” But the project Boulevard and the FEC railroad tracks. Grove Elementary School, who recently be accomplished, she says, if parents of didn’t go off without one major hitch. The previous principal, Josette Paris, told a parent to “eat sh— and die” in an all backgrounds continue to be involved At the last minute, Loveland received was popular with Haitian-American parents e-mail, Morningside Elementary par- with the school — and with each other. a donation of 300 palms, some rare, from living in Little Haiti, west of the school. ents say she made them feel unwelcome Metrozoo and the University of Miami. In But to some of the new parents moving and effectively shut them out. Just as Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 39 Community News

Dragon percent timing.” The sport’s collabora- Continued from page 36 tive nature, he says, means that some people’s personalities just don’t work in The exotic world of myth and legend dragon-boating. has morphed into a competitive inter- Conversely, photographer Kate national sport complete with standard- Benson says that Puff has spawned more ized rules and equipment. Typically, 20 than a few long-term relationships — and paddlers seated in pairs power a boat, even one marriage: “You didn’t know although upward of 50 are common. dragon-boating was so romantic, did A steersman controls the rudder and a you?” drummer sits at the bow, beating out a “But first and foremost,” founder Mi- rhythm for the paddlers. Red, green, or chael Chen insists, “we’re competitive. blue scales adorn the sides, and a colorful We want to win.” He says Puff has two dragon head and tail are fitted to either races coming up in the next six months, end of the boat for races. and some members will try out for Team A distinctly festive attitude, however, USA, which will represent the U.S. in the prevails. In China yearly dragon-boat World Dragon Boat Championships in festivals are vivacious affairs where Tampa next year. alcohol flows, food is abundant, and Chen, however, is no party-pooper. paddlers are known to party late into the “A lot of people in Miami say they like night. In Miami, too, the annual dragon- to party,” he says, “but we have more boat regatta, which pits paddling teams, parties in one month than they have all corporate workforces, police, firefighters, year.” He believes Miami has the poten- and other local groups against each other, tial to be a world destination for dragon- often feels like an oversize, Asian-themed boaters because of the weather and water. block party. And the inclusive nature of his team en- True to that spirit, Puff (named for a sures the advancement toward that goal: certain “Magic” dragon, but also an acro- “We want new members, we embrace all nym for Paddles Up For Friendship/Fun) people, we’re apolitical, and we respect ended their recent Oleta River practice that everybody is a unique being.” at the historic Blue Marlin Fish House, “Let’s put it this way,” he says, on the river near the team’s launch site. fingering a silver paddle pendant hanging Seated around a table in the shade, five from his neck chain. “We all just love this Puffers raised beers to toast their enliven- sport.” ing workout: “To dragon-boating!” Balu Vandor, a lithe Hungarian For information about Puff, visit www. who’s been hitting the paddles for five meetup.com/puffpower. The first three years, breaks down the formula for practices are free, then it’s $10 a month. good dragon-boating in between swills of lager: “It’s 49 percent technique, 51 Feedback: [email protected]

Wynwood respect and admiration of thousands of Continued from page 38 Wynwood stakeholders and visitors. I am honored to support WOW.” whopping $100,000. At Whale & Star the art swarm According to Sarnoff’s office, the greeted Sarnoff’s support with the money is part of the $255 million Home- requisite applause. Goldman, Margulies, land Defense/Neighborhood Improvement and the rest of the WOW women seemed Bond Program, passed by city voters in purposefully pleased. But the bright- 2001. Today an oversight board monitors the est smiles in the room came from Jones program, but the city commission has some and Roseborough. After all, that check discretion in awarding grants to worthy proj- ensures they’ve each got a good job with ects and organizations that can range from good folks in a good neighborhood, and public safety to parks and recreation. Sarnoff that they’ll have those jobs for some time. has given similar grants to neighborhood as- Perhaps more important, Wynwood sociations in Coconut Grove and the MiMo will have on hand two women who’ve District. And, as he indicated at the event, he helped transform the neighborhood in believes this is money well spent. ways they surely couldn’t have imagined “Women of Wynwood is a wonderful before becoming charter members of organization,” Sarnoff said in a follow-up WOW. As Thea Goldman put it: “They’re e-mail message the BT. “Even though grateful. But we’re more grateful.” WOW is fairly new, they have gained the

40 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Community News

The Name Your Know, The People You Trust BT photo by Jacqueline Doulis

SPECTACULAR TEN MUSEUM PARK LOFT BEST VIEW IN MIAMI - ESTATE SALE

2 BD / 2.5 BA NE corner LOFT with cutting edge 2,375 SQ FT 4 BD / 4 BA two level bayfront home! finishes. 1,906 SQ FT of dazzling off white stone Located on guard gated North Bay Island with floosrs throughout. Floating glass master shower, S/S unrivalled wide bay and Downtown views. Needs kitchen and 10’ deep living terrace. TLC. New seawall. Won't last!!

Jeff Morr Jeff Morr Critics say the World Gardens site “looks like crap” and that “every 305 398 7888 305 398 7888 [email protected] [email protected] business owner in the entire complex hates it.”

Gardens that inhibits root growth and kills the Continued from page 37 vegetation above. Nelson insists he is treating the included maintaining an Internet pres- imported soil with care, though he does ence for World Gardens on Facebook and admit that the effort is costing many AMAZING VIEWS AT THE 1800 CLUB 2 LEVEL TOWNHOME AT THE 1800 CLUB via a website — gardensforthepeople.org, thousands of dollars more than what which sought volunteer gardeners and, he’d budgeted for World Gardens. That 9th floor 2 BD / 2 BA with views from sunrise to 1,833 SQ FT 2 BD / 2.5 BA showplace featuring sunset. Purchase directly from developer. Situated marble floors and wood floors on 2nd level. briefly, financial contributions. Earlier budget, and all other financial details, across from beautiful Margaret Pace Park, minutes Tremendous outdoor living space with terraces this year, the sites stopped asking for remains confidential. Nelson declines to to South Beach, M.I.A. and Downtown Miami. on both sides. Spectacular bay views! donations, and both sites were shut down identify any donors of money or in-kind Ivan G. Chorney Ivan G. Chorney 786 863 5900 786 863 5900 last month. According to Nelson’s publi- services. “Everything in life is computed [email protected] [email protected] cist, Ashley Kehoe, a nonprofit organiza- in dollars and cents,” he says, “but this is www.the1800club.com www.the1800club.com tion devoted to assisting World Gardens about education and enjoyment. No one has not yet been formed. is specifically taking credit for what they Online issues have not been Nelson’s are doing…. I work 14 hours a day.” principal concern. He’s been preoccupied Tony Barbera, owner of Primo Pizza, with unprecedented cold temperatures east of the garden, is not impressed. Once and the lack of suitable soil. “This was an ardent supporter of World Gardens, TRUE CITY LIVING AT MIDTOWN MIAMI BUYERS? SELLERS? AUCTION MARKET? originally a rail yard, and it was not com- he’s lost faith. “It’s going nowhere,” he

municated to me that there was no usable says. “It’s not looking very good at all. Midtown Miami’s urban design and energy reminds This MARKET is "UNIQUE". You will need an soil on the entire property,” he says. As Every business owner in the entire com- you of NYC’s Soho District with spacious apartments experienced "Buyers' Realtor". I specialize in Short Sales and uniquely designed floor plans, both multi-level, and REO's. It's your move... I'll work hard and guide you a result, Nelson says he had to scramble plex hates it.” Barbera also complains LOFT and tower spaces. thru a smooth smart purchase process. LET'S TALK. to find some 800 truckloads of soil, that a “wall of trees” blocks the view of while plants that were already delivered his business from potential customers Luis Gomez Karen S Alvarez PA, REO's remained in pots. Some of them did lose strolling the Shops at Midtown. 305 763 1876 305 505 1286 [email protected] [email protected] their leaves in the cold weather, but are Nelson theorizes that critical business now recovering. However, he does ac- owners like Barbera are blaming World knowledge the chill killed 24 mussaenda Gardens for their own flawed business trees he imported from the Philippines. operations. “If your pizza isn’t good, Jeff Shimonski, though, says he spot- then nobody eats it,” he fumes. But to ac- ted dead and dying trees during his May commodate their concerns, Nelson plans 27 visit, including four potted trees and to expand walkways through the garden, QUANTUM-FAB VIEWS AT GREAT PRICE UPPER EAST SIDE SALES SPECIALISTS two planted Canary Island date palms. opening clearer views of businesses on There is some “beautiful” plant mate- both sides. Fabulous panoramic views of the bay, Miami Beach Put the sale of your home in the hands of two and the ocean down to Key Biscayne from this dedicated, creative, marketing-savvy agents who can rial at the site, Shimonski says, but he Deborah Samuel predicts that the contemporary 44th floor 1 BD / 1.5 BA. Beautiful open make your property shine. Call us today and set believes Nelson “cut back way too hard” grumbling about World Gardens will kitchen features S/S appliances and Quartz counters. yourself up for a successful sale. on many of the royal oak and palm trees, disappear once it’s finished. “At the Cristina Garriga / Jessica Weinerth Marjory Dressler 305 720 8088 / 305 389 6463 leaving them vulnerable to parasites. He end of the day, everyone will be happy,” 305 790 4243 [email protected] also wonders why Nelson didn’t test the she says. “No one will remember the [email protected] [email protected] soil when Samuel offered him the land. inconvenience.” Mixing different soils improperly, he warns, can create a “parched” water table Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 41 Commentary: Feedback

Letters recognized by the mayor — the chair — and take our turns to speak). There Continued from page 8 was no effort at that point to “call the The only alternate sources of revenue vote” and silence him, as Mr. González to come out of the workshops that were seemed to imply. certain and verifiable were to increase the After approximately 15 minutes of various utility taxes. Everything else was a speaking, Commissioner Bernard began bunch of “maybes” with no estimate of the a PowerPoint presentation, including dis- costs of collection or equipment. You can’t secting the actual contract, the Transmis- run a city on “maybes.” sion Line Siting Act, and many previously Mr. González mentioned 157 people discussed issues. The “call the vote” did signing a petition to have their taxes raised not occur until he had been speaking for but never mentioned how many people 40 minutes. He continued speaking for didn’t want them raised. He didn’t mention approximately another 20 minutes. that a majority of voters in Biscayne Park Now, I realize it makes for a more would need to vote to approve going above “exciting” story to imply some sort of the ten-mill cap, nor did he mention the group effort to silence one or more com- negative effect such a high property tax missioners, but it just didn’t happen that rate would have on home sales — espe- way. What did happen was the mayor cially the many foreclosures in our city. It (the chair!) attempted to encourage us to could even push some people over the edge get our points across without filibuster- and cause more foreclosures. If properties ing. It is possible to be both “transpar- don’t sell, property values don’t go up and ent” and concise. the millage rate stays up — likely for more Mr. González claimed the mayor than two years. continually interrupted Commissioner Only one city in the state of Florida Bernard. What he called “interrupting” — Indian Creek — has ever voted to was the mayor, as chair of the meet- go above ten mills. As a homeowner I ings, trying to run a meeting where we can’t control my millage rate or property actually get to the point and get things evaluation or when/if my tax rates goes accomplished. Endless talking does down. But I can use less electricity and not guarantee a better job gets done pay less in franchise fees. As for the and does not make for more “transpar- various other “hidden taxes,” same thing ency.” It’s just paralysis by analysis. Mr. — not everyone utilizes the utilities and González never mentioned the com- services that have those taxes, so not ments that often came across as sarcastic everyone pays all those taxes. and disrespectful, frequently aimed at He criticized Vice-Mayor Al Chil- the mayor, and the frequent interruptions dress’s motion to approve signing the of the attorney and others while they agreement with FPL and my second of were trying to answer questions. the motion, and claimed that a vote was Mr. González mentioned the to be taken immediately, without giving Miami-Dade contract as being a good Commissioners Bernard and Cooper compromise, but did not mention the “one last opportunity to articulate their many points the mayor brought forward opposition to the measure.” that showed the Biscayne Park contract Not exactly! He failed to mention is better than the Miami-Dade contract. that I stated my second was “for discus- Nor did he mention how much Biscayne sion,” and neither of us said a vote had Park would actually receive of the fran- to be taken immediately. Rather than chise fees or the length of time it might prevent Commissioners Bernard and take to get those monies from the county. Cooper from speaking, they began an What do we do while we are waiting? He approximately 20-minute discussion that also did not mention that, in the last five included the possibility of going under years, every city whose FPL franchise the Miami-Dade contract, and even agreement has come up for renewal has asked that the original motion be with- voted in favor of renewing. drawn in favor of Commissioner Coo- In closing, I do agree with Mr. per’s motion to go with Miami-Dade. González on one thing: No one should Once the original motion was not demean someone for disagreeing with withdrawn, Commissioner Cooper was them. But that should apply equally to recognized and given time (he spoke those who voted against signing FPL, for 20 minutes) to make his various not just those who voted for it. points. When he finished, Commissioner Commissioner Bob Anderson Bernard was given his turn (yes, we are Village of Biscayne Park

42 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Our Sponsors

BizBuzz Continued from page 10 A&A Village Treasures (9702 NE 2nd Ave., 305-759-1612), where June purchas- for those who overdo it, there’s a healing es are 10% off for BT readers. Among “Movement as Therapy” workshop on three new product lines is one made in June 26. Register at www.northmiamiarts. South Dakota’s Black Hills, which has com. Mention the BT for a $5 discount. the country’s cleanest air — a balm to From its start as a sailing pro- residents of the state with the USA’s gram to help motivate disabled people, dirtiest beaches. Shake-A-Leg Miami (2620 S. Bay- Speaking of which, it’s Hair of the shore Dr., 305-858-5550) has become Dog to the Rescue on June 5 from 5:00 a world-class water sports facility for to 9:00 p.m. at Smiling Pets Animal everyone wanting to play on Biscayne Clinic and Doggie Bag Café (7310 Bis- Bay. Now they’re offering two great cayne Blvd., 305-754-0844). The drill: summer camps where kids learn to sail, You and your dog(s) contribute $10-$15 kayak, snorkel, and explore the natural for haircuts. Collected pet and human world. For a full rundown on activities: hair goes to an organization that uses it www.shakealegmiami.org. to clean up the Gulf oil spill (one pound In summer, it’s said, men perspire soaks up a quart per minute). Any profits but ladies sparkle. Whatever you call it, go to local pet rescue groups. cleaning it is no sweat at new adver- Though Seraphic Fire is renowned tiser Laundromart (279 NE 79th St., for its varied repertoire, the all-star 786-275-4135). Under new manage- choir’s annual summer gospel concert is ment, the huge laundry (75 washers, an especially hot ticket. This year’s five 75 dryers) is offering BT readers some performances (June 10 in Miami Shores) tempting get-acquainted discounts. feature greatest hits from their past See their ad for the coupons. Oh, and gospel blowouts, so visit www.seraphic- there’s also cable TV, free wi-fi, and a fire.org immediately, before tix sell out. game room for kids. Specializing in both indoor and out- Summertime is playtime for door tropical flowering and foliage plants children, and that’s bound to mean the (plus self-watering containers), new ad- occasional accident. Luckily, returning vertiser City Plants (3529 NE 2nd Ave., advertiser Kidstown Pediatrics (4112 305-573-1101) has a great grand-opening NE 1st Ave., 305-576-5437) specializes deal if you mention the BT: 20% off your in all that ails small fry, including pre- first purchase. ventive vaccines. Dr. Margaret Okonkwo When Inc. magazine ranks a firm also offers same-day appointments. the fastest-growing full-service real Parents will also want to check out estate company in the USA, it needs the unique children’s consignment shop no introduction. So we’ll just say LoudGirl Exchange, a new BT adver- welcome back to returning advertiser tiser “where families meet to exchange Majestic Properties (35 NE 40th St.; clothes, art, and ideas.” Owner Theresa 305-677-5055). Pinto says she’s scheduled to open June Though The Phone Doctor (305- 15 at 7541 Biscayne Blvd.. Call 305-757- 759-2000) is a new advertiser, the com- 9054 for info on consigning items or pany has been selling multi-line phone exhibiting art. systems since 1983. As for installing and Eeek! Is that a monster on the lawn? programming, their techies will get your No, it’s the lawn growing like a monster, system up and running in less than ten as happens during rainy season. But minutes — guaranteed. returning advertiser Joe Blair Garden Hurricanes sure can crimp all this Supply (320 NE 79th St., 305-757-5554), summer fun, especially since contrac- established in 1928, has the experience tors specializing in hurricane-impact to match homeowners or professionals windows generally raise prices at the with the right mower for tough jobs. start of storm season. Instead Coastline Eeek! It’s another monster — on Windows and Doors (954-776-5827, your head. But rather than use the new www.coastlinewindowsanddoors.net) is mower, visit Hannah & Her Scissors offering BT readers 25% off. Yay! Hur- (611 NE 86th St., 305-772-8426). Men- ricane par-tay! tion the BT this month for 15% off hair- cuts, blow-drys, and facials. Something special coming up at your business? To pamper the rest of you, check out Send info to [email protected]. the new organic bath and body room at For BT advertisers only.

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 43 A r t & C u l t u r e Big Space, Very Big Ambitions International artist Enrique Martinez Celaya sets up shop in Wynwood with lofty aims By Anne Tschida erasing entire entities in his paint- BT Contributor ings, and then maybe adding them back in at the last minute. His nother chapter is being added to materials have also included tar the ever-evolving story of Wyn- and his own blood. One thing these Awood as an art center. While paintings won’t be, he says, “is some galleries have closed their doors made for the white-cube gallery, or decamped from the area (recently, the space that says ‘this is serious for instance, Kevin Bruk), others have art.’ It will be for a cathedral, for a Photos courtesy of Whale & Star replaced them. It’s hard to keep up with very different audience.” all the comings and goings over the past Martinez Celaya has always year. But one of the latest arrivals is been conscious of how and where worth paying closer attention, as it is a his work is exhibited, and it stems unique concept and could signal another from his philosophical views on transformative moment for Miami. life and art-making, which come Without much fanfare, internation- full circle here at the Whale & Star ally acclaimed artist Enrique Martinez center. A big fan of German philoso- Celaya opened his studio in a handsome, phy, Martinez Celaya stresses that slate-gray warehouse next door to the he wants the space to be a hub of se- Fredric Snitzer Gallery. But to call this rious intellectual growth, away from massive, 18,000-square-foot space a the commercialized aspects of the There is plenty of room for Martinez Celaya’s large-scale paintings. “studio” is an understatement. It does gallery and art-fair worlds, with ap- serve as his work space and houses his California, New York, University of Nebraska. art, but it also includes apartments for Berlin, and London. But the ever-mobile artist wasn’t residencies and internships, a research Raised in Puerto content to let his philosophical views library, an archive, offices, and his small Rico and Spain, Marti- on life express themselves only through publishing concern, Whale & Star Press. nez Celaya got his first paintings and sculptures; he also wanted Martinez Celaya, whose work can degree in — hang on to write. Hence, the birth of Whale & be found in museums and collections all — applied physics and Star, which has been publishing his writ- over the world, is in fact on a mission. electrical engineer- ings for a decade. Not only is this sprawling space the end ing, and another one Now sitting atop a highly successful point of a “life-long search for a place to in quantum electronics career at a relatively young age (he was work meaningfully in and for the world,” at the University of born in 1964), Martinez Celaya wants to it also aims to become something of a California, Berkeley. branch out yet again. spiritual and academic center, a combi- But while science had Back in the new studio, wearing a nation scientific laboratory and aesthetic always fascinated black “Whale & Star” T-shirt (as do the monastery. Not your average studio, nor him, art tugged more, other employees there), he describes your average ambition. and he would go on to why he ended up in Wynwood, and It’s why Martinez Celaya’s arrival The warehouse include a number of work spaces receive an MFA at the what’s up next. First off, he needed here is noteworthy. like this one. University of Califor- more space. Already the collection of On a recent afternoon, the artist is nia, Santa Barbara. his works in the studio number 240. As standing in one of the renovated, high- prenticeships, lectures, and workshops to His often somber and melancholy part of the mission to interact meaning- ceilinged rooms, contemplating four promote “an atmosphere in which visitors imagery, perhaps reflective of life in fully with the world, Martinez Celaya large-scale paintings that at this point and participants are encouraged to reflect exile (his show at MAM was called also wanted room to involve the com- have very little color. Almost immedi- on art’s ethical role free of the expecta- “Nomad”), would be picked up by mu- munity. Delray Beach was too small for ately several things become clear: There tions of the marketplace and academia.” seums and galleries across the country both those needs. is an order and a discipline to the whole This unique view has developed and Europe, including the Whitney and Miami’s dominant Latin culture was enterprise, and a quietness that does over a unique life and career trajectory. Metropolitan museums in New York, one draw. Although born and bred in indeed evoke a monastery. Then Mar- Although Cuban-born, the artist had and would increase in price by the year. the tropics, he says he’s “never really tinez Celaya explains that the paintings never spent much time in Miami until Although best known for his large paint- worked within such a strong Latin pres- will be part of an installation in the fall, just a few months ago, when he decided ings, he also works with sculpture and ence.” And while Wynwood is an art in the world’s biggest cathedral, St. John to leave his out-of-the-limelight studio installation — one fascinating exhibit center, “it is also very working-class, it’s the Divine in New York City. That ce- in Delray Beach, and his much more was the final stage of his Beethoven the type of neighborhood I want to reach ments the initial impression. hectic base in Los Angeles. He had a cycle, for the Berlin Philharmonic. He out to.” Whether the mostly figurative works show of five large-scale paintings here would garner awards, including the So he decided on Miami, a fascinat- will look anything like they do now, at MAM in 2007, but otherwise his National Artist Award from the An- ing “city of contrasts, one that is starting however, is a question mark. Part of work has mostly been shown — and derson Ranch Arts Center, and become Martinez Celaya’s process can include frequently bought — in art centers like a visiting presidential professor at the Continued on page 45

44 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 A r t & C u l t u r e

Exacting precision is a Martinez Celaya trait. It’s what makes him think his private venture will differ from the proliferation of others around town, specifically the private collections. For instance, an upcoming series of 20 lec- tures will be highly curated, something he doesn’t think he sees elsewhere, and they will be published — cataloguing is a big part of the mission. To advance these goals, residents, interns, and visitors will get stipends, help with travel, and room for free. Some of the most intriguing entries into the local art scene have been private ventures, which can be frustrating. Public discourse and interaction within Martinez Celaya’s studio library reflects his commitment to a fully public institutions is needed for Miami’s engaged intellectual life. further development. Nonetheless, Martinez Celaya’s is Martinez Celaya confuse Whale & Star with previous an interesting and noble experiment, Continued from page 44 models, such as Andy Warhol’s factory: one that can only benefit Miami in the to coalesce.” But it’s not there yet. “I “I want this to be a serious research long run — if it works. On a more basic think it’s trying too hard to define itself,” lab,” conducive to critical thinking as level, we have easier access to viewing he says, “to define a look or a ‘Miami well as creating. Enrique Martinez Celaya: Cuban- the work of an important artist who now School.’ That’s commodifying things too He wants to bring in historians and born but a newcomer to Miami. calls Miami home, a welcome new chap- much. It doesn’t have to do that.” heavy-weight advisors to help facilitate ter in any case. Rejecting such branding, Martinez this vision. He wants residencies and will always include Miami artists — Celaya also doesn’t want people to selective and rigorous workshops, which one-third to be exact. Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 45 Art & Culture Art Listings WYNWOOD GALLERY WALK & DESIGN DISTRICT DOT FIFTYONE ART SPACE ART + DESIGN NIGHT BERNICE STEINBAUM GALLERY 51 NW 36th St., Miami SATURDAY, JUNE 12 3550 N. Miami Ave., Miami 305-573-9994 305-573-2700 www.dotfiftyone.com 101/EXHIBIT www.bernicesteinbaumgallery.com Through July 8: “Sesera” by Jose Luis Landet and 101 NE 40th St., Miami June 12 through September 3: “Tableaux” by Amalia Caputo 305-573-2101 Nancy Friedemann and Jill Cannady www.101exhibit.com Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. DPM GALLERY Through June 8: 2441 NW 2nd Ave., Miami “ZEITGEIST” by Marcus Antonius Jansen BORINQUEN ART GALLERY 305-576-1777 100 NE 38th St., Miami www.dpmgallery.com 12345 WEST DIXIE STUDIO AND GALLERY 305-491-1526 Call gallery for exhibition information. 12345 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami www.borinquenhealth.org 305-895-2956 Ongoing: EDGE ZONES CONTEMPORARY ART www.12345westdixie.com Romero Britto, Igal Fedida, François Gracia, Clarice 47 NE 25th St., Miami Through June 14: Desousa, Andre de Plessel, Allen Benowitz, Rara Kuyu, 305-303-8852 “Alternate Realities” with Randy Burman, Tom Weinkle, and Gabriella Liascovitz Claire Fontaine, Change, quarters, www.edgezones.org and Steve Radzi Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. June 12 through June 26: “Burning in his own hell” by steel box-cutter blades, solder, Eduardo Sarmiento and “Marking” by Vincent Hemphill ABBA FINE ART BREVARDS GALLERY and rivets, 2006, at the Museum of Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. 233 NW 36th St., Miami 2320 N. Miami Ave., Miami 305-576-4278 305-576-5747 Contemporary Art. ETRA FINE ART www.abbafineart.com www.brevards.com 10 NE 40th St., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. Through August 31: CS GALLERY 305-438-4383 “NonDuality” by John Brevard 787 NE 125th St., North Miami www.etrafineart.com ALEJANDRA VON HARTZ FINE ARTS 305-308-6561 Call gallery for exhibition information. 2630 NW 2nd Ave., Miami BUTTER GALLERY www.chirinossanchez.com 305-438-0220 2301-2303 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. FACHE ARTS www.alejandravonhartz.net 305-303-6254 750 NE 124th St., North Miami #2 Through June 30: “the constructive élan” with various artists www.buttergallery.com DAVID CASTILLO GALLERY 305-975-6933 Call gallery for exhibition information. 2234 NW 2nd Ave., Miami www.fachearts.com ART FUSION 305-573-8110 Through June 25: “Streets” by Amos Miller 1 NE 40th St., Miami CALDWELL / LINFIELD GALLERY & STUDIO www.castilloart.com 305-573-5730 8351 NE 8th Ct., Miami Through June 5: “Gallery Projects” with Adler Guerrier, FREDRIC SNITZER GALLERY www.artfusiongallery.com 305-754-2093 Aramis Gutierrez, Quisqueya Henriquez, Susan Lee- 2247 NW 1st Pl., Miami Through June 23: “Inner Visions” with various artists www.susannacaldwell.com Chun, Pepe Mar, Glexis Novoa, Leyden Rodriguez- 305-448-8976 Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. Ongoing: Casanova, Frances Trombly, and Wendy Wischer www.snitzer.com “Seductive Assemblages and Wood Sculpture” by June 12 through July 3: “DCG Open” with various artists Through June 26: ART ROUGE Susanna Caldwell Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. “Paper” with various artists 46 NW 36th St., Miami 305-448-3060 CALIX GUSTAV GALLERY DIANA LOWENSTEIN FINE ARTS FREEDOM TOWER www.lurie-kavachnina.com 98 NW 29 St., Miami 2043 N. Miami Ave., Miami 600 Biscayne Blvd., Miami Through June 9: “Blue Rose Journey” by Evelyn Valdirio 305-576-8116 305-576-1804 305-237-7700 www.calixgustav.com www.dlfinearts.com Through June 5: ARTFORMZ Through June 29: Through July 6: “The Inspired Dream: Contemporary “Creatures” by Liliam Cuenca 171 NW 23rd St., Miami “Sticky and Sweet” with Eurydice, Carl Pascuzzi, Diane Australian Aboriginal Art” with various artists 305-572-0040 Arrieta, Jonathan Stein, Alexis Rodriguez-Duarte, and Reception June 12, 7:30 to 10 p.m. GALERIE HELENE LAMARQUE www.artformz.net Spunk and the Orange Kittens 125 NW 23 St., Miami Through August 20: “small wonders (art) salon” with Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. DIASPORA VIBE GALLERY 305-576-6095 Harumi Abe, Gustavo Acosta, Eric Anfinson, Duane 3938 NE 39th St., Miami www.galeriehelenelamarque.com Brandt, Pip Brandt, Leah Brown, Bill Burke, Stephanie CAFEINA 305-573-4046 Call gallery for exhibition information. Cunningham, Angi Curreri, Rai Escale, Shady Eshghi, 297 NW 23rd St., Miami www.diasporavibe.net Christian Feneck, Luis Garcia Nerey, Paul Glass, John www.cafeinamiami.com June 10 through July 22: “Exodus” with Rosamary GALERIE SCHUSTER MIAMI Gurbacs, Bryan Hiveley, Judy King, Jacek Kolasinski, Through June 5: Barrios-Hernandez, Chantal James, Ines Amado, 2085 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Greg Latch, Leila Leder Kremer, Silvia Lizama, Jules “Back in the Club Days” by Kiki Valdes Marlene Ramirez-Cancio/Fulana, Monique Diaz, Maria 786-266-2445 Lusson, John Martini, Lauren McAloon, Luisa Mesa, Lino, Aurora Molina, Tulu Bayer, Aleli Egues, Jorge www.galleryschuster.com Venessa Monokian, Hugo Moro, Carol Munder, Sam CAROL JAZZAR CONTEMPORARY ART Rojas, and more Through July 3: Perry, Ron Pieniak, Barbara Rivera, David Rohn, 158 NW 91st St., Miami Shores Reception June 10, 7 to 10 p.m. “Photography” by Juliane Eirich Gustavo Román, Sara Rytteke, Beatricia Sagar, Edgar 305-490-6906 Sanchez Cumbas, John Sandell, Claudia Scalise, www.cjazzart.com DIMENSIONS VARIABLE GALLERY DIET Gretchen Schargal, Shari Schemmel, Carolyn Schlam, By appointment: [email protected] 171 NE 38th St., Miami 174 NW 23rd St., Miami Nina Surel, Peter Symons, Chu Teppa, Paloma Teppa, Through June 13: dv 305-571-2288 Kristin Thiele, Jackie Tufford, Jovan Villalba, Daniel Jen Stark and Rory MacArthur dimensionsvariable.net www.gallerydiet.com Viñoly, Tom Virgin, and Ramon Williams Through June 12: “The funny guy that sticks his hand in Through July 3: Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. CENTER FOR VISUAL COMMUNICATION the paint can” by Carlos Rigau “The Sunday Painter” by JJ PEET 541 NW 27th St., Miami Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. BAKEHOUSE ART COMPLEX 305-571-1415 561 NW 32nd St., Miami www.visual.org DINA MITRANI GALLERY GALLERY I/D 305-576-2828 Through July 9: 2620 NW 2nd Ave., Miami 2531 NW 2nd Ave., Miami www.bacfl.org “Darby Bannard: The Miami Years” by Darby Bannard 786-486-7248 305-778-4568 Call gallery for exhibition information. and “Beyond the Daily Life” with Guerra de la Paz and www.dinamitranigallery.com www.galleryid.com Teresa Diehl June 12 through August 28: Call gallery for exhibition information. BAS FISHER INVITATIONAL “DISPOSABLE: NOSTALGIA FOR THE STILL IMAGE” 180 NE 39th St., #210, Miami CHAREST-WEINBERG GALLERY curated by Orlando Estrada with various artists GIOVANNI ROSSI FINE ART By appointment: [email protected] 250 NW 23rd St., Miami Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. 2628 NW 2nd Ave., Miami www.basfisherinvitational.com 305-292-0411 561-251-1375 June 12 through June 26: “School’s Out For Summer!” www.charest-weinberg.com DORSCH GALLERY www.giovannirossifineart.com with the entire 9th grade class of DASH June 4 through August 21: 151 NW 24th St., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. “10 Years” by SunTek Chung 305-576-1278 “Within an Arrow’s Range” by Pedro Barbeito www.dorschgallery.com GODONAMERICA BASHA GALLERY Reception June 4, 8 to 10 p.m. Through June 5: 1 NE 40th St. #5, Miami 795 NE 125th St., North Miami “Drying Flowers in a Microwave” by Corin Hewitt and 786-362-5546 305-891-4624 CITY LOFT ART “Haptic” by Jacob Robichaux www.godonamerica.com www.bashagallery.net 61 NE 40th St., Miami June 11 through July 10: Through June 8: Through June 30: “Recession Art” with Bob Arbogast, 305-438-9006 “in direct quote” by David Marsh and “a flawed “BildoReliefos” by Alain Godon Claudia Castillo, Allyson Krowitz, Arnaldo Rosello, Jorge www.cityloftart.com providence” with various artists Continued on page 47 Chirinos Sanchez, Kari Snyder, and Pedro Wilson Call gallery for exhibition information. Reception June 11, 7 to 10 p.m.

46 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Art & Culture

Art Listings KUNSTHAUS MIAMI OUR HOUSE WEST OF WYNWOOD 3312 N. Miami Ave., Miami 3100 NW 7th Ave., Miami Continued from page 46 305-438-1333 305-490-2976, www.oh-wow.com www.kunsthaus.org.mx Call gallery for exhibition information. Through June 30: HARDCORE ARTS CONTEMPORARY SPACE “Gay Rights are Human Rights” with Oscar Aguirre, PANAMERICAN ART PROJECTS 3326 N. Miami Ave., Miami Carlos Arias, Nan Goldin, Lothar Müller, Dulce Pinzón, 2450 NW 2nd Ave., Miami 305-576-1645 Iván Puig, Leonardo Ramírez, Guillermo Riveros, 305-573-2400, www.panamericanart.com www.hardcoreartcontemporary.com Rafael Rodríguez, and Wulf Treu June 12 through August 15: “Summer Salon: a Through July 3: “Soul without face” by Sabrina Montiel-Soto selection of works under $2,500” with various artists June 12 through July 3: “These Things from Behind” by LILIENTHAL ART STUDIOS Reception June 12, 6 to 9 p.m. Manuela Covini 96 NW 29th St., Miami Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. 305-573-2002 PRAXIS INTERNATIONAL ART www.ilanalilienthal.com 2219 NW 2nd Ave., Miami HAROLD GOLEN GALLERY Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-573-2900, www.praxis-art.com 2294 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-989-3359 LOCUST PROJECTS www.haroldgolengallery.com 155 NE 38th St., Miami Kris Knight, Pull, oil on canvas, SAMMER GALLERY June 10: “Polyblend” with various artists 305-576-8570 2010, at Spinello Gallery. 82 NE 29th St., Miami Located at the Bahia Mar Hotel on 801 Seabreeze www.locustprojects.org 305-441-2005 Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale Through June 26: artnet.com/sammergallery.html Reception June 10, 5 to 7:30 p.m. “How To Read A Book” curated by Michael Wilson with MIAM-DADE COLLEGE, CENTER GALLERY June 12 through August 1: Becky Beasley, Guy Ben-Ner, Lorin Davies, Harrell 300 NE 2nd Ave., Miami “Constructive art from the 50s & 60s” with Carmelo ICON ART IMAGES GALLERY/STUDIO Fletcher, Jeff Gabel, Anna Gray and Ryan Paulson, Bldg. 1, Room 1365 Arden Quin, Carlos Cruz Diez, Maria Freire, Bolivar 147 NW 36th St., Miami Graham Parker, Christina Pettersson, Leanne Shapton, 305-237-3696 Gaudi, Antonio Llorens, Juan Mele, J. Altabe, Miguel 305-606-5157, www.cashappeal.com Eve Tremblay and Matt Wiegle www.mdc.edu Vidal, Eduardo Jonquiers, Rodolfo Ian Uricchio, Jesus Call gallery for exhibition information. Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. Call gallery for exhibition information. Soto, and Costigliolo Reception June 12, 6 to 9 p.m. INTERFLIGHT STUDIO LYLE O. REITZEL GALLERY MIAMI INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY 250 NW 23rd St., Miami 2441 NW 2nd Ave., Miami OF ART AND DESIGN SETH JASON BEITLEE FINE ARTS 305-573-1673, www.interflightstudio.com 305-573-1333 1501 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 250 NW 23rd St, #202, Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. www.artnet.com/reitzel.html 305-428-5700, www.mymiu.com 305-438-0218, www.sethjason.com Through June 10: “Open Mind” by Raul Recio Call gallery for exhibition information. Call gallery for exhibition information. KABE CONTEMPORARY 123 NW 23rd St., Miami MIAMI ART SPACE MIRIAM FERNANDES GALLERY SPINELLO GALLERY 305-573-8142 244 NW 35th St., Miami 3618 NE 2nd Ave., Miami 155 NE 38th St., Miami www.kabecontemporary.com 305-438-9002 305-573-9531, www.miriamfernandes.com 786-271-4223 Call gallery for exhibition information. www.miamiartspace.com Call gallery for exhibition information. www.spinellogallery.com June 12 through ‘July 7: “20(12): Twenty Twelve” June 12 through July 3: KELLEY ROY GALLERY curated by Kiki Valdes with Reinier Gamboa, Kiki Valdes, MUSEO VAULT “A Deadly Nightshade” by Kris Knight 50 NE 29th St., Miami David Tamargo, George Sanchez-Calderon, David Marsh, 346 NW 29th St., Miami Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. 305-447-3888 Brian Gefen, John Sevigny, Raul Perdomo, Alvaro Ilizabe, 305-571-1175 www.kelleyroygallery.com Eric Torriente, and Oliver Sanchez www.museovault.com Continued on page 48 Through July 31: Tom Seghi Reception June 12, 6 to 11 p.m. Call gallery for exhibition information.

STATEMENTS Fine Ladies Clothing

2118 N.E. 123rd Street North Miami, Florida 33181 T (305) 893-7559 F (305) 892-0510

Hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Sat (Special appointments available)

Sizes 2-20

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 47 Art & Culture

Art Listings WYNWOOD CENTRAL GALLERY “Jaguar’s Spots: Ancient Mesoamerican Art from the 2242 NW 1st Pl., Miami Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami” with various Continued from page 47 305-433-3441 artists www.wynwoodcentral.com Ongoing: MIAMI ART MUSEUM STASH GALLERY Kito Mbiango 101 W. Flagler St., Miami 162 NE 50th Terr., Miami 305-375-3000 305-992-7652 YEELEN ART GALLERY www.miamiartmuseum.org www.myspace.com/stashgallery 250 NW 23rd St., Unit 306, Miami Through June 20: June 5: “Lil’ Miss Fortune” by Evo Love 954-235-4758 “The Embodied Experience of Color” by Carlos Cruz Reception begins at 7 p.m. www.yeelenart.com Diez Performance begins at 8 p.m. Call gallery for exhibition information. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART STRUCTURES GALLERY MUSEUM & COLLECTION EXHIBITS 770 NE 125th St., North Miami 80 NE 29th St., Miami J.J. Peet, Shift, acrylic on panel, 305-893-6211 305-447-3888 CIFO (Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation) www.mocanomi.org Through July 31: “Steel Redemption” by George Schroeder 1018 N. Miami Ave., Miami 2010, at Gallery Diet. June 3 through August 22: 305-455-3380 “Economies” by Claire Fontaine SWAMPSPACE GALLERY www.cifo.org of Haiti” with Jacques Nicolas Bellin, Edouard Duval- 3821 NE 1st Ct., Miami June 5: Carrié, FanFan, Gerard Fortuné, Jean-Enguerrand THE MARGULIES COLLECTION [email protected] “Paper My Silhouette,” event for children and parents Gourgue, Yvens Leger, Lesly, Fritznel Obin, Gerard 591 NW 27th St., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. taught by Emma Galler, featuring instruction in Paul, Jacques Pierrette, Lionel Simonis, Jean 305-576-1051 Victorian-era cut-paper silhouettes and contemporary Thermidor, Jacques Valmidor, and Wagler Vital www.margulieswarehouse.com UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROJECTS SPACE portraits. Free for CIFO members, $5 per child Through October 3: “Spiritual Healing – Shamans of Call gallery for exhibition information. 2200 NW 2nd Ave., Miami nonmenbers. Limited space. the Northwest Coast” with Cicero August, Ken McNeil & 305-284-2542 Activities from 1 to 3 pm Stan Bevan, Dempsey Bob, Kevin Cranmer, Edward S. THE RUBELL FAMILY COLLECTION Call gallery for exhibition information. Curtis, John Hagen, Aubrey LaFortune, Don Lelooska, 95 NW 29th St., Miami DE LA CRUZ COLLECTION CONTEMPORARY ART Darren McKenzie, Ed Archie NoiseCat, Bill Reid, Terry 305-573-6090 WALLFLOWER GALLERY SPACE Starr, Ray Watkins, and Reg Williams www.rubellfamilycollection.com 10 NE 3rd St., Miami 23 NE 41st St., Miami Ongoing: “The Figure Past and Present: Highlights Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-579-0069 305-576-6112 from the Permanent Collection” with Carlos Alfonzo, www.wallflowergallery.com www.delacruzcollection.org José Bedia, Manuel Carbonell, Edouard Duval-Carrié, WORLD CLASS BOXING myspace.com/wallflowergallery Call for exhibition information. Thornton Dial, Carel Fabritius, Augustín Fernández, Debra and Dennis Scholl Collection Call gallery for exhibition information. Red Grooms, Luis Jiménez, Jacob Lawrence, Auguste 170 NW 23rd St., Miami FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY FROST Rodin, Rufino Tamayo, and Purvis Young 305-438-9908 WHITE VINYL SPACE ART MUSEUM www.worldclassboxing.org/ 3322 NW 2nd Ave., Miami 10975 SW 17th St., Miami LOWE ART MUSEUM, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI June 12 through July 30: 305-776-1515, www.whitevinylspace.com 305-348-2890 1301 Stanford Dr., Coral Gables “Mystic Visage” curated by Desiree Cronk and “Girls in Call gallery for exhibition information. thefrost.fiu.edu 305-284-3535 4/4” by Katie Murray Through August 29: “Volf Roitman: From MADI to The www.lowemuseum.org Reception June 12, 7 to 10 p.m. WOLFGANG ROTH & PARTNERS FINE ART Ludic Revolution” by Volf Roitman Through June 6: 201 NE 39th St., Miami Through August 1: “Paul Strand in Mexico” by Paul “Annual Masters of Fine Arts Candidates Exhibition” Compiled by Victor Barrenechea 305-576-6960, www.wrpfineart.com Strand with various artists Send listings, jpeg images, and events information to Call gallery for exhibition information. Through September 5: “Tap-Tap: Celebrating the Art June 26 through October 31: [email protected]

Dancing is good for the heart $5.00 Off A Dance Class With This Ad!

NorthDANCE MiamiCLASSES FORArts KIDS Collective & ADULTS n{xÊ Ê£ÓxÌ Ê-Ì°]Ê œÀÌ Ê ˆ>“ˆÊUÊ­ÇnÈ®ÓÎn‡£ÓÈ{Ê www.NorthMiamiArts.com

48 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Art & Culture Events Calendar Indian Key EcoAdventure Miami River Tour Art, Design, and Soulful Seraphic Fire If Life’s a Stage, Latin Music Mix Here’s a Chance for It Up Kids to Live It Remember vinyl? Of course Ignite your child’s imagination you do. Chances are you this summer. The PlayGround have some of those old Theatre (9806 NE 2nd Ave.), classics stashed in a closet, Miami Shores’s premier perform- protected by plastic covers. ing arts institution, offers two Remember the album art? Summer Shorts Thunder Boats summer theater camp sessions. concerts in Often it was as memorable Session one runs from Monday, June 14 BT territory, as the music. This was an international through Friday, July 9. Students will Thursday, phenomenon, and was particularly strong learn acting, music, dance, improvisation, June 10, at in the Spanish-speaking world. A unique and theater games. The program ends St. Martha show imported from Spain by Miami’s with a bang — a grand finale performance Catholic Centro Cultural Español and called created by the students. Camp hours are Church in “¡Mira Qué Lindas!” unites music and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call the theater for Miami Shores. It is sure to sell out, as album art with a display of more than 500 registration and pricing: 305-751-9550. are concerts at the other four locations, iconic Latin album covers and a series of both adults and children entertained. so get your tickets now. They are $35 at concerts featuring innovative bands from Be sure to check out the Lil’ Bahamas www.seraphicfire.org. A Musical Theater Premiere Spain and Latin America: Xperimento, “All Tings Bahamian” Cultural Village Clorofila (Nortec), Las Nancys Rubias, for the Whole Family and Straw Market for charming one- It’s a busy summer for City Theatre. In Perrozompopo, and more. The multime- of-a-kind crafts and great food. Some Let the Thunder addition to Summer Shorts, the troupe dia extravaganza, which includes music events require admission. Visit www. Boats Roar! will unveil a world-premiere musical and design workshops, runs through goombayfestivalcoconutgrove.com or Here’s another tagline for Miami: Birth- at the Arsht Center. Camp Kappawa- Saturday, June 19 at Awarehouse (550 call 305-448-9501 for details. place of open-ocean racing and high-per- nna follows Jennifer Jenkins, a quirky NW 29th St.). All events are free, but a formance boat manufacturing. Join thou- 12-year-old, on her adventures at summer $10 donation is recommended. For a full Not Far Offshore, sands of fans from all over the country camp. Music is by the multi-talented schedule of events, visit www.ccemiami. Friday, June 11 through Sunday, June Lisa Loeb with book by Marco Ramirez, org or call 305-448-9677. History Awaits Jump back in time and explore Indian 13 as they converge on Haulover Beach a local with a growing national reputa- Key, a state historic site in the Upper Park (10800 Collins Ave.) for an action- tion. Catch the show (appropriate for Summer Shorts Brings You Keys. Occasionally occupied since the packed, ear-splitting weekend at the third ages seven and up) while it’s at the Car- the World in Ten Minutes 1730s but never permanently settled, annual Sunny Isles Beach Offshore nival Studio Theater for a limited run, The 15th season of Summer Shorts at the island and its surrounding waters Powerboat Challenge. Other activities Thursday, June 17 through Sunday, the Arsht Center kicks off on Thursday, are dripping with history. (Sorry.) This include a “Rum Runner Festival” with June 27. Tickets are $25. For show times June 3 and runs through Sunday, June is a guided canoe tour in which you’ll food, drinks, and entertainment, meet and tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org. 27 in partnership with City Theatre. The also snorkel and roam the uninhabited and greet the racers, a rock concert fea- turing the Evil Monkeys, and the Miss program features two different series of island terrain. Miami-Dade’s Eco- Give Paul George a one-act plays, each 5 to 20 minutes long. Adventures program advises you to Offshore 2010 contest. Best of all, it’s Signature Shorts plays are hilarious and gather at A.D. Barnes Nature Center free. Event times vary, so visit www. Megaphone and Put Him on heartfelt, while Undershorts productions (3401 SW 72nd Ave.) on the morning offshoreevents.net or call 305-792-1706 a Boat in the Miami River — are provocative and adults-only. Tickets of Wednesday, June 9. Price is $85. for specifics. Now That’s Entertainment are $25 but a special offer is available for For maximum enjoyment, remember to Does your father really need another those who want to see both programs and bring water, sun protection, a change Mangohead Heaven patterned tie? Shake up dad’s life this catch dinner at Prelude by Barton G up- of clothes along with your bathing suit, For foodies summer in Miami means Father’s Day with an exciting tour of the stairs. Times vary. Visit www.arshtcenter. a light lunch, and comfortable closed one thing: mangoes, mangoes, and more Miami River. Join HistoryMiami’s lo- org for more information. shoes. Snorkel gear provided. Call mangoes — 150 varieties to be exact. quacious historian and master tour guide, 305-365-3018 for departure time and to Mango Mania will overtake the Fruit Paul George, on Saturday, June 19 for At Last! A Reason to Visit make reservations. and Spice Park in the Redland (24801 an exhilarating boat ride up and down Coconut Grove SW 187th Ave.) on Saturday, June 12 the river. You’ll see and learn about The village comes alive with culture Seraphic Fire’s Soulful Side for a special one-day event. Learn how the famously mysterious Miami Circle, Thursday, June 3 through Sunday, Sing hallelujah for Seraphic Fire’s to grow them, protect them from insects rugged tugboats, rusty Haitian freighters, June 6 to celebrate the first black foot-stomping, hand-clapping annual and disease, and prepare them in a zil- colorful houseboats, and chilling stories settlers in South Florida at the 34th summer gospel concert. This year’s lion ways. And of course you’ll be able of the river’s darker side. Price is $39 for annual Goombay Festival. A full program, “It Is Well with My Soul,” will to taste a wide variety. Then roam the museum members and $44 for non- schedule of events, including gospel reprise many of the choral ensemble’s park to see the rest of the summer fruits in members. Call 305-375-1492 for more services, a historical pioneer brunch, gospel hits, including “Amazing Grace” bloom. Park admission is $8 for adults and information and to make reservations. and the main event — the colorful and “I’ll Fly Away.” Also this year the $1.50 for children. Call 305-246-5727 or Goombay Street Festival — will keep group has scheduled one of its five visit www.fruitandspicepark.org. Compiled by BT intern Mandy Baca

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 49 Police Reports Biscayne Crime Beat Compiled by Derek McCann Lame Roommates came uninvited and was rum- A woman was waiting to be seated at 600 Block of NE 83rd Street maging through his bedroom. a restaurant when someone behind her Our victim “secured” his room and went The victim screamed, prompt- began to “bump and grind,” rubbing up to visit a friend in Overtown. During this ing the criminal to jump out against her body. The victim later told excursion, he received a phone call from the window. Then the victim police that this strange person looked “a a mystery voice telling him: “Just know I bravely gave chase in an effort bit out of place.” We gather the rubbing have your stuff — come get it if you want to retrieve his laptop (the vermin part cemented this opinion. A minute it.” How nice…involuntary layaway. He was carrying it), but was easily or two later, the touchy and inappropri- was then confronted in Overtown by the outrun. Police came to process ately feely private dancer disappeared, suspect, who wore red Puma sneakers prints but the exit window was and with that so did the victim’s wallet, that belonged to the victim. The victim covered with dirt and heavy dust, which had been inside her purse. Man- managed to escape and came home to a so prints were unable to be taken. agement told police it was the second ransacked room. Amazingly, the bur- Miamians, clean your windows Hotel. The cleaning lady came in while he consecutive day that this had occurred. glary had occurred in the presence of the and ready yourself for your next robbery! was present and engaged him in a lively victim’s roommate, who assumed the per- conversation. After this discussion, the Good for Dogs, Great for petrator had permission to be in the room, Doubletree Double-cross victim took a shower. The cleaning lady Criminals left and so did the watch. There is no video despite the fact that he came in through the 1700 Block of N. Bayshore Drive 800 Block of NE 80th Street of the incident and there are no witnesses. window. No arrests have been made and It amazes Crime Beat when victims contin- This victim’s home was secured in its Victim filed a police report but the watch those red Pumas are still on the loose. ue to push the proverbial envelope by trust- usual manner, with the ADT alarm system has yet to be returned. Please, wear your Cleanliness Is Next to ing their fellow human beings. If we’ve activated. (Aren’t alarms great for peace learned one thing by now, it is this: People bling at all times. Lawfulness of mind?) Hours later, the victim found in Miami are manipulative sleaze! (Okay, a that her television was missing from her 200 Block of NE 55th Street From Bump and Grind to slight exaggeration, but you know what we kitchen. The alarm never went off. And Man arrived home and saw a Boulevard mean.) This victim left his $11,000 Rolex Bump and Run scumbag in his home. Mr. Scumbag watch on a nightstand at the Doubletree 200 Block of NE 18th Street Continued on page 51

50 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Police Reports

Crime Beat befriended a stranger one sleepy Sunday to the cop and asked for compassion through his last cigarette and needed afternoon. And what do people who and understanding. He was promptly one desperately. He was gone some 45 Continued from page 50 make it into Crime Beat normally do arrested and hauled off to jail, where he minutes (must have smoked up a storm) why not? The suspect apparently entered when they meet someone new? Right. won’t have to steal his food and drink. and came back to find that his room had through the dog door at the rear of the They invite the new obsession over for been burglarized. He had walked to the house. The puppy portal, it turns out, was the night, usually at one of the finer Flesh-ripping Barbed Wire infamous Mercy Supermarket, which not wired into the alarm system. Animal Boulevard motels. The lonely man felt so fortunately did not figure in a police lovers are a kindly lot, but our criminals comfortable with this damsel that he fell No Match for Dogged item this month but was sure to make an are brighter. Still, Fido is more important asleep while watching television. Costly Boozer appearance in Crime Beat nonetheless. than a lousy television. mistake. His somnambulism led to the 6900 Biscayne Boulevard Victim moved all his items to another forfeit of his wallet as his new friend An employee arrived at UVA 69 res- room but is still missing his laptop — disappeared into the humid night. taurant at 5:30 in the morning and was and is still smoking. Five Guys and the Missing startled by an intruder. The employee Purse chased the suspect west to NE 4th Court, Shops at Midtown Miami The New Food Stamps: where the suspect dropped his backpack Is It Really This Easy To A woman was savoring a delectable Three Square Meals and eventually escaped. To gain entry Make an Arrest? burger at Five Guys Famous Burger and to the restaurant, the crook apparently NE 15th Street and Biscayne Boulevard Fries (a great addition to the neighbor- Behind Bars A police officer intentionally left a 2900 Block of Biscayne Boulevard climbed over a barbed-wire fence and hood) when she flung her purse over her pried open the back door. What would bicycle unattended in an effort to solve chair. Within minutes her wallet was A man came into a store and began the mystery of many reported thefts in grabbing several food items and bottled motivate someone to take such risks? gone. At least they didn’t take her burger. the area. Within minutes a man came water. When he went to the counter, he Liquor. The thief made off with eight The good news is that there is video of by, grabbed the bike, and began to advised the store owner that he had no bottles of hooch, which have not been the entire incident. With any luck, the pedal away. The officer gave chase and money and asked if the owner would let recovered. Is it time for an AA meeting? burger bandit will be brought to justice. quickly stopped him. The man admitted him leave with his goodies. The owner to taking property that was not his, but refused, at which point the suspect More Costs Associated with stated (like Dorothy): “He just wanted to Meeting New People in Miami grabbed the tip jar and ran southbound 5500 Block of Biscayne Boulevard Smoking go home.” Haven fallen into the officer’s down the Boulevard. A police officer 6200 Biscayne Boulevard Having difficulty making new friends little trap, he was quickly arrested. doing routine surveillance flagged him A man locked his motel room door and in a hot-and-cold city, a lonely man down. The man explained his dilemma ventured out because he had burned Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 51 PARK PATROL The Curse of the Ancients Bad things happen when you mess with the spirits of the dead By Jim W. Harper Archaeologist Carr says the use of the BT Contributor area as a cemetery has been known for at least a decade. “It is considered sacred emember the lesson we learned ground by some,” he says. from the hit 1982 movie Polter- Carr refers to Brickell Point as “a Rgeist? Never, never, never build huge complex,” noting that historically it your house on top of an ancient Indian was not divided into parcels of real estate burial site. So where did Miami’s mega- Harper BT photos by Jim W. as it is today. Certainly its mysterious developer Jorge Perez build his largest past is much bigger than the towering project? Exactly where he shouldn’t condos that cover most of the property have: atop an ancient Indian burial site. now. In addition to ancient human re- The curse of the Miami Circle is mains, the site has revealed various tools, unfolding before our eyes. The latest a midden or “trash mound” of shells used news is that Perez and his partners have by Indians, and skeletons of a logger- been forced to return a majority of the head turtle, a bottlenose dolphin, and a $1 billion ICON Brickell complex to requiem shark buried there deliberately. its lenders. Is it just another casualty of The best modern feature of both the collapsed housing market? Or could parks on Brickell Point are views of the there be deeper, ancestral forces at work? waterfront, and eventually a walking Today ICON Brickell and its freaky The only visible sign of improvement at Miami Circle Park is a path here will be incorporated into the totemic columns sit between two very new seawall. new parks it created accidentally: the Miami Circle Park and Brickell Park. history of exploitation by immigrants from historic, which Both parks nearly disappeared into the the north. The Brickells loved the property has survived the vortex of the hyper-development years, so much they buried themselves here in a demolition of nearly but somehow they survived to infl ict granite mausoleum with Ionic columns. everything else their curses on future generations. The inside of the mausoleum, open and around it, deserves Brickell Park is a sliver of land on the eerily empty, holds berths for six. an explanation. south side of ICON Brickell that reaches In 1946 daughter Maude Brickell At least these Photo courtesy of History Miami from Brickell Avenue to Biscayne Bay. gave up her ghost, so to speak, and graves are empty. Following construction, the develop- moved the parents to Woodlawn North The greatest mystery ers agreed to deed it back to the City of Park Cemetery. In 1989 the original of Brickell Park are Miami in perpetuity. Perez would never Brickell mausoleum was listed on the its unmarked graves. want it back, I assume, because the prop- National Register of Historic Places. “I believe 13 individ- erty is doubly haunted. Did somebody misplace its marker? uals were removed The most obvious haunting is by the The park’s only signage at the Brickell and all of those were Brickell family, who built their mansion Avenue entrance has a vague reference reinterred,” says Bob Archaeologist Bob Carr (left) at the Miami Circle site here during the early years of Miami’s to the Brickell family. Something this Carr, executive di- in 1999.

MIAMI CIRCLE PARK & rector of the Archaeo- City of Miami’s plans to create an ex- Miami River BRICKELL PARK logical and Historical tended Bay Walk and River Walk. Miami Conservancy and the Circle Park will be a centerpiece. Park Rating Miami Circle Park man who fi rst docu- Currently the undeveloped Miami

mented the Miami Circle Park is accessible, although con- Brickell Ave Ave Brickell Circle site. And where struction expected to begin this summer Miami Circle Park: 401 Brickell Ave. were they buried for may soon restrict access. For its own SE 5th St Brickell Park: 501 Brickell Ave., Miami a second time? “They protection, the actual circle has been cov- Miami Circle Park (undeveloped): 305-375-1492 were reinterred in the ered with soil (reinterred, so to speak), but SE 6th St Brickell Park Brickell Park: 305-416-1320 park,” says Carr. bumps in the grass make it easy enough to Hours: Sunrise to Night lighting: Yes The unmarked locate in the park’s center. sunset Swimming pool: No human remains Uncovered in 1998 prior to con- Picnic tables: Yes Playground: No relocated somewhere struction of an earlier condo project, the Barbecues: No Special features: within Brickell Miami Circle property was purchased Picnic pavilions: No Brickell mausoleum, Park are most likely in 1999 by the State of Florida for $27 Tennis courts: No disturbed Indian spirits Tequesta Indians, the million, using our tax dollars, of course. Athletic fi elds: No group that inhabited Its status remained unclear until 2008, Brickell Point some 2000 years ago. Continued on page 53

52 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Park Patrol

Curse Continued from page 52 when the state subleased the property for 44 years to the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, which recently decided to change its name to HistoryMiami. (Pause and reflect.) In January of 2009, the site became Florida’s 41st National Historic Landmark. Unfortunately a visitor who stumbles upon the site today would learn next to nothing. Absolutely nothing is marked, Somewhere in Brickell Park the remains of 13 ancients have How it might look: An architectural rendering not even the circle itself, and the only been reburied. of the proposed Miami Circle Park. sentence about the Miami Circle is on a small billboard above the Brickell collapsed in 2007. cavern underneath the bridge that would a ritual involving chanting and pungent Bridge. Pity. According to George Zamanillo, offer ample parking. Donate it already! smoke. Her stage, on a circle constructed In August 2009, the ground-breaking a vice president of HistoryMiami and Phase one will create a walkway near the bridge, is decorated with bright for Miami Circle Park took place with coordinator of the Miami Circle Park but will not expose the ancient circle for plastic flowers. Beside it flies a very, very great fanfare and a range of dignitaries, project, the cost of phase one has risen public viewing. The limestone would tattered American flag. including Florida’s Secretary of State, from initial estimates of $750,000 to quickly start flaking if not protected At the August groundbreaking, Kurt Browning, and then-Miami Mayor $990,000. But he promises that those from the elements, says Zamanillo, and Hummingbird-Ramirez opened the cer- Manny Diaz. A two-phase architectural funds are fully available. finding a way to showcase it properly emony with these words: “The ancestors plan was unveiled, and phase one was Zamanillo explains the delays in con- will require many more years and much are here.” scheduled for completion by the spring struction as a series of steps to arrange more funding. They are indeed. They can be moved, of 2010. But it looks like nothing has permits, equipment, and contracts. Phase Despite the park’s bland appear- and re-moved, but the ancestors don’t happened since then. As of May 2010, one will offer access by car, but park- ance, it comes to life once a week. On seem to be letting go. the only part of the park that appeared ing space is still being negotiated with Tuesday evenings at 6:00 p.m., Cath- finished was a portion of the seawall that the City of Miami, which owns a shady erine Hummingbird-Ramirez conducts Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 53 Columnists: Kids and the City Daddy Dearest How to be a successful father in ten easy steps By Jenni Person progressive take on the weekly Torah BT Contributor portion as a means of inspiring and validating their parenting. Luckily for ommy blogs abound. But what everyone, this comes from a very real are daddies reading to boost place as he is a parent himself. Mand validate their parenthood? In honor of Father’s Day, celebrated on How do they find communities that inform June 20, and my appreciation for my life part- approaches to their role? Mommy manuals ner and co-parent, here is one of his pieces. abound. They range from prenatal to post- Inspired by the Torah episode in which Jacob partum. Daddydom relies almost solely on is favored by mom and Esau’s birthright is The Expectant Father. Locally the parent- swiped, the theme is truly universal: ing website MomsMiami hosts a roster of “In Toldot (literally, generations) tales mommy bloggers — and one dad. of manipulation, sleight of hand, and pa- My own dad probably never even rental favoritism both repulse and remind thought of reading anything related to us that families still must contend with parenting unless it was staring back at similar issues today…. Why can’t our early him between other articles in the pages prototypical family simply ‘love each child of the New York Times, Wall Street they fizzled out on the reading as their that everyone on the Internet “becomes and share everything equally?’ Perhaps Journal, or Journal of Accountancy. But babies grew, more confident perhaps an expert.” He enjoys sharing this the Torah is teaching us about how elusive our generation is different, with couples from all the earlier reading, they pre- “expert advice” himself as he tweets or fairness and objectivity can be. getting pregnant instead of just moms, ferred to trust their instincts. posts on Facebook parenting stuff he “As parents and educators we are and diaper bags designed for dads. Babycenter.com, an online resource for thinks is cool and wants to share with his challenged by two forces. In one sense Salvation is found in the blogosphere, baby gear, also serves as an advice portal. fellow parent followers and friends. we seek to model fairness and objectiv- which is rich with daddy blogs. Many are One dad I spoke to loves receiving monthly Other reading resources approved of by ity. We want our children to learn that by accessible through the daddy blog portal e-mails from the site with developmental dads are the free local parenting monthlies, playing fair, being rewarded for follow- dad-blogs.com. It is here that dad’s voice information tailored to his toddler’s age. South Florida Parenting and Miami Family. ing rules, and by remaining open-minded is heard, sharing the trials of father- He also relies on the website baby411. My own partner, who occasionally there is much to be gained. At the same hood, advice, and parenting hypotheses. com, which he refers to as “the Consumer reads and responds on MomsMiami, is time we know that both parenting and From single dads to stay-at-home-dads Reports of baby products.” voluntarily inundated with parent reading education must be differentiated. (SAHDs) to work-at-home-dads to regu- He appreciates both the abundant from About.com. He receives developmen- “All children do not respond to the lar co-parenting dads — a cacophony of safety information and honest appraisals tal e-mails from ages our kids have moved same systems, modalities, or even con- fatherly voices resonates online. such as: “You don’t need to buy the $700 out of all the way up to teens, uncharted tent. Some will love language arts more I asked some of my daddy friends stroller — there really is a $300 one that territory for us by about six years still! than the sciences. Some will be at their about what they read. I learned about does all the same stuff.” He arrived at This is not about being compulsively best with sweat on their brow. Some need straightforward, instruction-manual this website through its originating book, prepared, though as an educator he feels minimal oversight while others need that online resources and books. A lot of the Baby Bargains. Experienced parents, he it helps keep him informed for the range helping hand with regularity. The notion men around me were avid readers during says, directed him to buy the book “at of age populations he encounters in his of inheritance has a long history, and it pregnancy and the toddler years, drink- conception.” In addition to Baby411 and work each week. But here is the other begins with Abraham’s legacy. The ques- ing in the popular What To Expect… the Baby Bargains book, there are also cool thing about my partner: As an edu- tion posed to us is: What qualities do we books and the like. Some were manual Toddler 411 and Toddler Bargains books. cator he writes a weekly parenting piece want our children to inherit?” wonks. Some were curious. Some needed This dad also shared that he reads himself. In his field of Jewish education, to look interested. They also mused that whatever is on the Internet — and laughs he provides parents a contemporary and Feedback: [email protected]

54 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2009 Columnists: Your Garden Bromeliads: Easy, Lovely, and Risky Risky? Yes, because they’re attractive to both humans and mosquitoes By Jeff Shimonski sampling for four of eastern equine encephalitis and seven BT Contributor years on a regular horse cases of West Nile virus reported basis and identifying in Florida. These are all diseases trans- romeliads have always been a the species that breed mitted by mosquitoes that can breed in major part of my plant collec- there, I found that the containers in our yards. There were also B tions. This is such a diverse, bromeliad collection three human cases of West Nile virus hardy group of plants and I think only contributes a reported in Florida, only one of which BT photo by Jeff Shimonski a welcome addition to any kind of very small percentage was contracted out of state. garden or landscape. There are bro- of the mosquitoes that Ever hear of “breakbone fever,” meliads with edible fruit like the breed there. Storm better know as dengue fever? This is an- pineapple, some that are quite tiny and drains and small other mosquito-borne disease, and it can make great epiphytes to grow upon the containers of water — cause serious illness, including internal trunks of your palms, and other large whether tree holes or bleeding. We used to have outbreaks in species that can be wonderful accent old car tires lying on the United States, but improved mosqui- plants in a landscape setting. the ground — are the to control has kept it in check for many One drawback to a bromeliad collec- major source of our years. Well, that changed last summer in tion is the fact that many species collect bad mosquitoes, the Key West, when 22 cases were reported, water in the center cup or the axils of the aggressive biters and mostly in residents of the Old Town area leaves. These diminutive bodies of water disease-carriers. — this more than 70 years after the last make fine breeding sites for mosquitoes. Pesticides should major epidemic in Florida. Some species of these insects are native only be used as a From mid-October 2009 to April and co-evolved with our native bromeli- final option for the Canistrum aurantiacum is an easy bromeliad to grow of this year, no new cases were re- ads. Other types of mosquitoes some- control of insects in that will flower several times a year in a large bed. ported. Then one positive individual was times found breeding in these plants are your home — from identified who had not recently traveled exotic species that have naturalized in mosquitoes to roaches. Remember, collected on plastic tarps used to cover outside the United States, indicating that our state. A few are known as serious when you use pesticides, you are only barbecue grills, inside the saucers under- it’s very likely this person contracted the disease vectors. killing the vulnerable insects. Those neath potted plants outside, in clogged dengue virus locally. This is not a good Recently I published a paper in the that survive will pass along their resis- up rain gutters, and in a wide range of sign. We are the cause of these diseases, trade journal of the American Mosquito tance to their offspring, which is why other unnoticed locations. It only takes a a result of our poor housekeeping. Control Association on how, over the new pesticides are constantly being couple of ounces of water to successfully We can control mosquitoes that past four years, I’ve been able to control introduced to the market. breed mosquitoes. breed in our bromeliads with certain mosquitoes at Jungle Island without Here is the secret to 100-percent- Did you know that dog heartworm is types of bacteria or insect growth regu- spraying. This project came about be- effective mosquito control without transmitted by mosquitoes? How much lators that are nontoxic to mammals and cause of the large collection of brome- chemicals: sanitation. That’s right. Clean money do you spend on heartworm birds. We can also simply wash out the liads at the park and the need to stop up your yard! I’ve done surveys in a medicine for your pets? There are very water that collects in the leaf axils once spraying for mosquitoes. number of areas around Miami and this limited options for the control of this a week to remove the mosquito larvae. If we could end mosquito spraying, has quite often been the case. I’m always parasite, which can develop resistance This will certainly help control the then the landscape at the park would be surprised at the mosquitoes I find in to the chemicals used in treatment. Ask spread of disease. But until we get seri- completely sustainable and maintained some of the “better” neighborhoods. In your veterinarian. Better yet, ask your ous about picking up after ourselves, we without pesticides. This would enable my surveys, I’ve found some of the worst dog what he thinks. may be in for some nasty surprises. beneficial insect populations to become and most aggressive species successfully While on the topic of valuable ani- established at the park. Ironically, after breeding in small pockets of water that mals, in 2009 there were 75 horse cases Feedback: [email protected] PLANT CARE MADE EASY! At our store, you will find specialists in self-watering containers, interior foliage plants, tropical flowering plants, and gift plants. Our experts will help you select the right plant for your special space. They even make house-calls!

(305) 573-1101 3529 NE 2nd Ave. Midtown Miami www.CityPlantsUSA.com

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 55 Columnists: Harper’s Environment Bioblitz Comes to Biscayne Bay The goal: Identify as many plants and animals as possible in 48 hours By Jim W. Harper any condition — including in After snorkeling, people on the boat BT Contributor Miami. excitedly swapped stories about seeing Also identified were 22 giant sea slugs and upside-down jellyfish. eople love to count things. Some species of ants that had not Deeply-marked books for identifying fish people count calories, some count previously been documented in and invertebrates in these waters were passed Pbirds, and some use the Census to the park. On the animal side, the around, and snorkelers swapped stories about count people. A different type of inven- most common creatures were the little stone crab that got away. Photo by Thomas M. Strom tory took place recently in Biscayne insects, fish, corals, and birds. Later that evening, night divers were National Park, the closest national park Rarely seen birds identified on excited to see black, gag, and red groupers on to Miami. During a 24-hour period from this day included the mangrove the reef. Park scientists were relieved that no April 30 to May 1, thousands of people, cuckoo, bay-breasted warbler, one saw the invasive and poisonous lionfish, including me, fanned out across the park and nesting roseate spoonbills. a Pacific fish that has become established in to find as many species as possible. On the plant side, 11 lichen the Atlantic, most likely owing to pet owners Called a “bioblitz,” this intensive survey were documented here for the flushing unwanted fish into the sea. captures a snapshot of what is currently living first time, and several potential For many students, the bioblitz was a major Exotic and invasive trees remain within a given area. National Geographic, “champion trees,” known to educational experience. a huge problem within the park, just which sponsored the bioblitz in Biscayne have survived Hurricane Andrew, were Key, found University Dock, and hopped as they are a gigantic problem within National Park, called it the first marine-based seen on Totten Key. A champion tree is the into shallow water near the shoreline. nearby Everglades National Park. Efforts bioblitz. With boundaries that stretch from largest of its kind in the U.S. When the water is no more than a few to control them continue in both parks. offshore of Key Biscayne in the north to Key This event attracted major natural- feet deep, you stop looking for sizeable fish The plight of endangered species Largo in the south, Biscayne National Park is ists from across the country, but it also and start gazing into the crevices of plants, was featured at the park’s entrance. An mostly underwater in Biscayne Bay and the drew at least 1300 school children from sponges, and corals. We had an exciting installation of 360 colorful flags, coordi- Atlantic Ocean. Miami-Dade County. These children and moment when one of our scientists found a nated by local eco-artist Xavier Cortada, Homo sapiens were identified as one other volunteers added breadth to the seahorse and invited the snorkeling crowd showed an endangered species for the of more than 800 species during the 24- count, and it was a major educational ex- to see it. The green critter of about three earth’s 360 degrees of longitude. hour bioblitz, but there were not many perience for them. One group of students inches was amazing, to say the least. Its tail Biscayne National Park is home to other mammals on the list. A prelimi- from South Dade Senior High School was curled around a thin black branch, and several endangered species, including the nary list posted on the website of the became nature photographers for the day it remained still as the giants stared at it. West Indian manatee and the American National Park Service did not include the with help from National Geographic. I found another fish that curled around crocodile. Underwater, elkhorn coral and dolphin or manatee, although manatees Presentations took place during both my fingers, but it could not be identified staghorn coral struggle to survive. are known to congregate in the effluent days, and a Biodiversity Festival helped accurately. Looking like a miniature eel, the Surely there are thousands upon around Turkey Point’s nuclear power to conclude the event in fitting style. This slender, copper-colored creature seemed to be thousands of smaller species within plant, located just south of the park’s year has been proclaimed the International a baby pipefish. Later the fish-identification the park that were not identified during Dante Fascell Visitor Center. Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations. expert on board said that juvenile pipefish are the bioblitz, but that was not the point. The total number of species is expected I signed up for a free snorkel trip, extremely difficult to identify at the species The point was that thousands of people to rise significantly as scientists review and about 25 people loaded onto the level, but luckily we got a photo, which could visited the park with the intention of dis- photographs, DNA samples, and other Amoray Diver at 4:30 p.m. Among us be used later for a positive ID. covering everything and taking nothing. evidence. One major discovery was a new were a handful of experts in geology, At many points the snorkelers were Everyone should try a bioblitz. How many phylum of Tardigrades, commonly called coral, and other marine organisms. With crawling in the sand instead of floating, be- flora and fauna can you find in one day? Start “water bears.” These bizarre, microscopic somewhat windy weather, we headed out cause the water was so shallow. With the low counting and see where it takes you. creatures that look like pudgy caterpillars of Convoy Point at the park’s headquar- tide, we could not approach the mangrove can live almost anywhere and under almost ters toward the sheltered side of Elliott roots, where fish fry are known to gather. Feedback: [email protected]

Get the home loan you need from the bank you trust. Contact us today to learn how Bank of America could help find a mortgage solution for you: Bank of America Aventura Office 305.933.5275 19495 Biscayne Blvd. Suite 300 Aventura, FL 33180

Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender © 2009 Bank of America Corporation. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. 00-62-0118D 06-2009 AR72208

56 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Columnists: Vino After the Storm — Eat, Drink, and Be Sweaty Red, white, and you: Agreeable wines for $12 or less By Bill Citara Peak Sauvignon Blanc. hold their own against equally spicy BTContributor Substitute alcohol for food, especially when you consider sugar and this wine could the wine’s tangy cherry fruit and t’s that time of year again, and if the be adult lemonade; it’s dusky-earthy undercurrents. A platter various meteorologists, forecasters, a bracingly tart, crisp of impromptu nachos would be just Isoothsayers, fortune tellers, and read- number that gives a little the ticket, thick-cut chips layered ers of chicken entrails are right, the 2010 green apple and melon at with canned black beans, jarred salsa, H-word season is going to be a bitch. first sip and then explodes fresh guacamole, bagged chicken, and Which is all the more reason to lay in a with a burst of lemon. I’d goopy nacho cheese sauce. serious stock of liquid refreshment. pair it with slightly altered Zinfandel and pizza are a classic Yeah, yeah, I know. A gallon of water Niçoise salad, a bag of pre- combination, so the 2007 Cline Cali- per person per day. But when the power washed greens with canned fornia Zinfandel and a throw-together is out and the food in your refridge smells tuna, tomatoes, onion, and pizza should make a perfect couple. This like a month-old salmon, and the constant cucumber, bulked up with is a dark, dusky, powerful Zin, with bold blatting of generators is like a drill press canned white beans and black cherry fruit, plenty of pepper and to the cranium, see how much relief you’ll jarred artichoke hearts in a spice, a good shot of toast, and black get from a damn glass of water. A glass (or lemon-herb vinaigrette. olive nuances. Get a Boboli crust and several) of crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc Antinori’s 2008 slather it with jarred tomato sauce, pep- or light, fruity Pinot Noir? Well, that’s Orvieto Classico Campo- peroni, mushrooms, and olives and top something else entirely. grande adds some richness with slices of American cheese. Toss it It’s the little things — like something and fruitiness to the Geyser red peppers, saffron, and a small dice of on the grill to crisp the crust and melt good to eat and drink — that can make Peak’s lemony acidity, with flavors of onion and zucchini. Stir in slices of Span- the cheese — and thumb your nose at a big difference when the conveniences apple and orange and tropical fruit in ish chorizo (cured, not fresh like Mexican Mom Nature. of day-to-day life suddenly go bye-bye. a fuller-bodied but still well-balanced chorizo) and maybe some canned shrimp So I scribbled out a list of what wines wine that can play well with a variety and it’s done. The Biscayne Commons Publix I’d like to drink and what I might cobble of foods. Here again, canned tuna can Moving on to reds, there’s the (14641 Biscayne Blvd., 305-354- together from my nonperishable emer- be your best friend. Mix it with a bit of Angeline 2008 California Pinot Noir. 2171) is the source for the Antinori gency food supplies that would actually Minute Rice, then add pine nuts, raisins, Don’t give up on this one if it opens Orvieto and Monticello Albariño, at resemble a meal. Call it “wine-food pair- capers, chopped green onion, and olives, with a blast of sweaty gym socks. That $9.99 and $12.19, respectively. The ing for the hurricane-impaired.” and use it to stuff jarred Spanish piquillo disappears within seconds and leaves Cline Zinfandel ($9.99) and Geyser Two caveats. One, I’m assuming you peppers. you with a nose of candy strawberry and Peak Sauvignon Blanc ($9.49) can have a supply of nonperishable foods Fuller bodied still is the Monticello raspberry fruit with the faintest touch of be found at the North Miami Beach and a decently stocked pantry. And, two, Verdemar 2008 Albariño. You don’t often Burgundian funk. Not a lot of complex- ABC Fine Wine & Spirits (16355 that you have some kind of heat source find an Albariño for $12, and this one ity but very drinkable, perhaps with a Biscayne Blvd., 305-944-6525), not dependent on electricity, whether a doesn’t have the richness and complex- veggie panini that spreads a hoagie roll while Tapeña’s Garnacha sells charcoal or propane grill, campfire stove, ity of its pricier brethren. Still, after a bit with a pesto made from finely chopped for $10.99 and Angeline’s Pinot or one of these butane canister burners of a funky open, it shows off green apple, jarred artichokes, parsley, pine nuts, Noir for $11.99 at the North Miami you can get at Amazon for $40. If you grapefruit, and mineral flavors, with hints and canned Parmesan, then fills it with Beach Total Wine & More (14750 don’t, well, there’s always peanut butter of the floral character that makes Albariño grilled or sautéed eggplant, zucchini, red Biscayne Blvd., 305-354-3270). and a spoon. so engaging. With this I’d make an imita- pepper, and red onion. Let’s start off with whites. On the tion paella, using Minute Rice cooked with The intensely spicy, berryish flavors lighter side, we have the 2008 Geyser canned chicken stock, tomatoes, jarred of the 2008 Tapeña Garnacha can Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 57 Columnists: Pawsitively Pets Mo’ Pets, Mo’ Problems Ten tips for managing your menagerie By Lisa Hartman Things don’t always go smoothly; you’ll BT Contributor need to give your pets time to develop a relationship. Sometimes that never hap- hen I was growing up, most pens and they cannot be together unsu- people I knew had a single pervised. Would you be willing to hire Wdog, and possibly a cat. But a trainer and possibly use strict manage- as the importance of pets in our lives ment for the duration of the animals’ grows, so does the number of them we lives? A friend of mine needs to keep her live with. After all, they say pet people male dog separated from her husband’s are healthier, and owning a pet can male dog at all times. In that situation, lower your blood pressure. Imagine how however, the dogs still have a high quality healthy and stress-free we would be with of life as the owners are dedicated, knowl- two or more animals, right? edgeable, and do a lot of activities with Those of us living with more than them separately. one animal know that isn’t always the Spaying and neutering dogs also case. In fact many pet owners wind up helps lessen tension, so make sure to giving up or abandoning one or more “de-sex” all parties as soon as possible. of their pets when the going gets “ruff.” Daily exercise will help as well. Many problems that arise in multi-pet Keep the first pet’s schedule households can be avoided with a little relatively intact. His life should not common sense. Whether you’re thinking change overnight with the arrival of the of adding to your family or your house newcomer. Keep his walks with you the already resembles Wild Kingdom, being same, let him sleep in his same spot, feed proactive and having realistic expecta- dog to befriend the first dog, or “hope” it biting their ears, and wanting to play all him first, and so on. Integrate the new tions can help you keep the peace. will keep the first dog busy. But just like day. Dogs of the same sex have a higher animal slowly with short, fun meetings. Socialize your dog when young. children, each dog should have its own tendency to fight than mixed households. Do not throw a new pet in the face Animals don’t necessarily have to fight quality time with you to bond and be Also some people have “rescue syn- of the first one. A small pet such as a “like cats and dogs.” Early exposure to trained. Best to get one dog trained and drome” and can’t say no to an animal in kitten or bunny that can be picked up different animals — other dogs, cats, obeying you before adding more animals need of a home. As kind as it is to rescue, does not want to be held in front of the birds — will help ensure future house- to the family. you shouldn’t accept just any animal into jaws of a larger animal. It’s better to keep hold harmony. If you have a puppy, Would your current pet really your current pack. a dog on a leash and under your control invite friends’ pets over often to get your want another furry family member? Who is the new pet for? If the and let the other animal approach when animal accustomed to sharing space. As social as domestic pets may be, many answer is anyone other than you (not ready. Make sure an animal like a cat Get one dog under control before are perfectly content being on their own, your child or your cat), proceed with cau- has an escape route if they are feeling adding a second. As a dog trainer, I gen- especially if they weren’t well social- tion. Animals are wonderful to own but threatened. Supervise, supervise, and su- erally cringe at the thought of someone ized or don’t like to share the spotlight. they are time-consuming, expensive, and pervise. Have animals leashed or be sure trying to raise two puppies at once. Two Special thought should also be given to some animals like birds can live upward you have them under physical control dogs teething, chewing, digging, needing age and type of animal you are thinking of 40 years! Make sure you’re ready to just in case. potty training, socializing, and every- of adding. With few exceptions, most take responsibility for another life. Keep initial meetings short and thing else! What a nightmare! geriatric animals are miserable having Are you willing to give the new pet sweet. Use lots of positive reinforcement Most people say they got the second an obnoxious pup jumping all over them, sufficient time to adjust? How long? Continued on page 59

BISCAYNE VETERINARY CENTER The latest technology, amazing facility, pet spa and boarding right in your neighborhood.

5841 Biscayne Boulevard • Miami, Florida 33137 • Phone: 305.575.1190 • Fax: 305.575.1195 • www.BiscayneVeterinaryCenter.com

58 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Columnists: Pawsitively Pets

Problems them separately as well as together. training them how to behave is a neces- careful planning, and realistic expecta- Continued from page 58 Practice a lot of impulse-control cues sary part of the equation. tions will allow you to enjoy your multi- such as “leave it,” “drop it,” and “stay.” Your pets don’t need to do every- pet household. to show your dog that when the new Impulse-control exercises are handy in thing together. Their names are Ted and animal is around, great things happen many ways, from stopping a dog that Alice, not TedandAlice — the hybrid Lisa Hartman is head dog trainer and for him! Feed him lots of high-value chases cats (“Leave it!”) to having them that is always asked to sit at the same founder of Pawsitively Pets. You can treats when the new animal is in view, wait calmly while you fix them dinner. time. Get over your guilt that you need reach her at pawsitivelypetsonline@ and have the treats go away when the Do not let bad behavior become rehearsed to pet both, give a treat to both, and do yahoo.com or www.pawsitivelypetson- newcomer is not in sight. With lots of and hope it will go away on its own. everything else at the same time. They line.com. You can also keep up with quick, pleasant meetings, your pet will As a general rule, the more animals are separate beings. her and her dogs on Facebook at www. be happy to see the new animal because you have, the better trained they need to With more animals in the house, profile.to/dogtrainer. it means wonderful things for him! be. You owe it to your animals to give there is certainly more to love and lots If you are dealing with dogs, train them every opportunity to succeed, and of fun times ahead. Common sense, Feedback: [email protected]

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 59 C o l u m n i s t s : W o r d o n t h e S t r e e t What is one thing you’d like to change about Miami? Compiled by Cathi Marro – BT Contributor

Adam Kahn Lisa Mozloom Leo Leonard William Serrano Sybil Dratt David Moran Unemployed Mom/Volunteer Car Wash Owner Business Owner Retired Art Teacher Pastor Morningside Belle Meade MiMo Brickell North Miami Miami Better driving! I’ve lived I would want to change Juvenile delinquents The police. They are arro- It bothers me to make I would like to change the in different states, and it peoples’ hearts in the should clean up Biscayne gant and overpowering of a phone call and have to way people view diversity. seems when I moved here way they see dispar- Boulevard and the beach- the citizens. They prey on press 1 to speak in English. We should view it as an that people drive crazy ity and who has money es. There’s too much regular citizens instead of It’s like being in a foreign asset. We need to shave — running red lights, not and who doesn’t. I wish trash on the streets! The looking for criminals. This country, and you have to off and refine the egocen- using blinkers, cutting people would invest time system plays with these one guy got a ticket and speak Spanish in order to tric perspective that we all me off, constantly on cell in others who have less to kids too much. They are the cop said, as he handed conduct any type of busi- have. We need to not only phones and not paying understand how relation- constantly in and out of it to him: “Thank you for ness. I do speak Spanish, see but also value and ap- attention. Miami has the ships with other people jail. We should give them buying the City of Miami.” but I think people should preciate what others bring highest insurance rates in can change their lives something to do and Also I was once fondled speak English in this coun- from across the board. Florida because of all the and transform a commu- then they may stop going by a female cop. Another try. When my ancestors We need each other to be accidents and uninsured nity. Then they can stop in and out of jail. This cop friend of mine knew came here, they learned whole and complete. drivers. And this area of complaining about their needs to happen! her and said that she’s just English and passed it on to Biscayne Boulevard has own problems. a bitch! their children. the highest rate in Miami.

60 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2009 Dining guiDe

R ESTAURANT L ISTINGS The Biscayne Corridor’s most comprehensive restaurant guide. Total this month: 228.

MIAMI lobster club on onion toast, some surprisingly solid Asian Brickell / Downtown fusion items, and a cocktail is one of Miami’s more relax- NEW THIS MONTH MIAMI SHORES ing experiences. $$-$$$ Abokado Miami Shores Country Club 900 S. Miami Ave., 305-347-3700 Bali Café MIAMI 10000 Biscayne Blvd. Hamachi chiles rellenos? Shiso leaf “nachos” topped 109 NE 2nd Ave., 305-358-5751 305-795-2363 with raw spicy tuna, kaiware sprouts, and other Asian While Indonesian food isn’t easy to find in Miami, downtown BRICKELL / DOWNTOWN Formerly members-only, the restaurant/lounge facilities ingredients? The Viva, a sushi roll that starts with stan- has secret stashes — small joints catering to cruise-ship and of this classy 1939 club are now open to the public — Sushi Maki always, lunch and dinner. Not surprisingly, ambiance dard Japanese (spicy tuna, cucumber, avocado), adds construction workers. This cute, exotically decorated café 1000 S. Miami Ave., 305-415-9779 is retro and relaxed, with golf course views from both Latin sabor (jalapeño, cilantro), wraps it in a flour tortilla, has survived and thrived for good reason. The homey cook- Fans of the popular parent Sushi Maki in the Gables bar and indoor/outdoor dining room. The surprise is the and garnishes it with heat (spicy snow crab mix)? Miami ing is delicious, and the friendly family feel encourages even will find many familiar favorites on this Brickell branch’s food — some classic (steaks, club sandwiches) but other hasn’t tended to initiate too many food “firsts,” but this the timid of palate to try something new. Novices will want menu. But the must-haves are some inventive new dishes quite contemporary: an Asian ahi tuna tower; a Japanese/Pan-Latin fusion place is surely one. Prices are Indonesia’s signature rijsttafel, a mix-and-match collection dishes introduced to honor the eatery’s tenth anniver- lavish candied-walnut, poached-pear, grilled chicken higher than at neighborhood sushi spots, but in keeping of small dishes and condiments to be heaped on rice. Note: sary — and Miami multiculturalism: “sushi tacos” (fried salad; and fresh pasta specials. Prices are phenomenal, with Abokado’s Mary Brickell Village neighbors. $$$$ bring cash. No plastic accepted here. $-$$ gyoza skins with fusion fillings like raw salmon, miso, with dinner entrées $9 to $17; drinks average $3 to $4. chili-garlic sauce, and sour cream), three tasty flash- There’s live jazz on Thursday and Friday nights, too. $$ Acqua The Bar at Level 25 (Conrad Hotel) marinated Asian/Latin tiraditos; addictive rock shrimp 1435 Brickell Ave., 305-381-3190 1395 Brickell Ave., 305-503-6500 tempura with creamy/spicy dip. Also irresistible: four Four Seasons Hotel On the Conrad’s 25th floor, The Bar’s picture-windowed space festive new sake cocktails. $$-$$$ NORTH MIAMI Originally an Italian/Mediterranean restaurant, this com- is not just a watering hole with panoramic views. At lunch it’s fortably elegant, upscale spot switched chefs in 2006, an elegant sandwich bar; at night it’s a raw bar (with pristine Yes Pasta! resulting in a complete menu renovation. Thailand’s coldwater oysters) and (best) a tapas bar serving pintxos. MIAMI 14871 Biscayne Blvd., 305-944-1006 famed sense of culinary balance is now evident through- That’s just the Basque word for tapas, but here there’s The space, formerly a Pasha’s, isn’t posh. But out the global (though primarily Asian or Latin American- nothing mere about the generously portioned small plates. MIDTOWN / WYNWOOD / DESIGN DISTRICT minimalism fits a partially self-service Italian eatery inspired) menu, in dishes like yuzu/white soya-dressed They range from traditional items like cod fish equixada and centering on a DIY concept: mix-and-match pastas. salad of shrimp tempura, a tender pork shank glazed with saffron-sautéed Spanish artichokes to inventive inspirations Limón y Sabor Diners choose one of seven pasta types, then one spicy Szechuan citrus sauce, or lunchtime’s rare tuna like foie gras and goat cheese-stuffed empanadas. $$$ 3045 Biscayne Blvd., 786-431-5739 of 15 sauces, ranging from simple tomato/basil to burger with lively wasabi aioli and wakame salad. For des- In this dramatically renovated space, the room is now funghi e tartufi (wild mushrooms in truffle sauce), sert few chocoholics can resist a buttery-crusted tart filled Botequim Carioca light and open, and the food is authentic Peruvian, with decadent Alfredo, creamy yet clean-tasting Flaminia with sinfully rich warm chocolate custard. $$$$$ 900 Biscayne Blvd., 305-675-1876 seafood a specialty. Portions are huge, prices low, qual- (puréed yellow peppers with black pepper), and more. If Brazil’s cuisine were defined by the USA’s Brazilian ity high. Especially good are their versions of pescado Also available are panini (on excellent bread), salads, Area 31 restaurants, the conclusion would be that Brazilian people a lo macho (fish fillet topped with mixed seafood in a soups, imported salumi or cheese platters, desserts, 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, 305-524-5234 eat nothing but rodizio (all-you-can-eat meat), and weigh, creamy, zesty sauce); jalea (breaded and deep-fried fish, and several wines. $$ Not that the sleek interior of this seafood restaurant on average, 400 pounds. This Brazilian pub broadens mixed seafood, and yuca, topped with onion/pepper/ (named for fishing area 31, stretching from the Carolinas the picture, with a menu that offers entrées, especially at lime salsa), and yuca in hot yet fruity rocoto chili cream to South America) isn’t a glamorous dining setting. But lunch, but highlights Brazilian tapas -- mega-mini plates sauce. $$ AVENTURA / HALLANDALE we’d eat outside. From the expansive terrace of the meant for sharing. Must-not-misses include pasteles Epic condo and hotel on the Miami River, the views of filled with shrimp and creamy catupiry cheese, beautifully Acquolina Brickell’s high-rises actually make Miami look like a real seasoned bolinho de bacalau (fried salt cod dumplings), NORTH BEACH 124 S. Federal Hwy. city. It’s hard to decide whether the eats or drinks are the and aipim frito (house-special yuca fries, the best in 954-454-2410 most impressive. The food is impeccably fresh regional town). $$$ Lemon Twist Attention, nostalgic NYC and NJ émigrés. Remember fish, prepared in a clean Mediterranean-influenced style. 908 71st St., 305-865-6465 driving downshore for fabulous Italian-American seafood The cocktails are genuinely creative. Luckily you don’t Cafeina In warm weather, we like to hit this French bistro for dinners? This friendly yet elegant eatery’s garlicky clam have to choose one or the other. $$$-$$$$ 297 NW 23rd St. either a cornichon-garnished charcuterie platter (includ- chowder, baked clams oreganata, and pasta with clam 305-438-0792 ing mouthwatering Rosette de Lyons salami, hard to find sauce — all featuring fresh Long Island littlenecks or top Azul This elegantly comfortable multi-room indoor/outdoor in Miami) or the frisée salad with lardons and poached necks — bring back those good times. Also don’t miss 500 Brickell Key Dr., 305-913-8254 venue is described as an “art gallery/lounge,” and some egg. Add iles flottantes (merengue islands on a crème signature spiedini (savory mozzarella/anchovy/porcini Floor-to-ceiling picture windows showcase Biscayne Bay. do come just for cocktails like the hefty café con leche anglaise pond) and a glass of wine, et voila! A perfect sandwiches, a grilled cheese on steroids) or an inven- But diners are more likely to focus on the sparkling raw martinis. But don’t overlook chef Guily Booth’s 12-item Parisian light supper. But there’s honest heftier fare, tive strawberry salad. All dishes come in two sizes: “half” bar and open kitchen, where chef Clay Conley crafts imag- menu of very tasty tapas. The signature item is a truly too, like the steak/frites (entrecote with choice of sauce, (meaning large) and “family style” (gargantuan). housemade fries, and a salad), and rich fig tarts. $$$ $$-$$$$ inative global creations – many of them combinations, jumbo-lump crab cake with no discernable binder. At to satisfy those who want it all. One offering, “A Study one South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Martha Stewart in Tuna,” includes tuna sashimi, Maine crab, avocado proclaimed it the best she’d ever had. Our own prime tempura, and caviar, with several Asian sauces. Moroccan pick: melt-in-your-mouth ginger sea bass anticuchos, lamb is three preparations (grilled chop, harissa-mari- so buttery-rich we nearly passed out with pleasure. $$ Cvi.che 105 The Democratic Republic of Beer nated loin, and bastilla, the famed savory-sweet Middle 105 NE 3rd Ave. 255 NE 14th St., 305-372-4161 Eastern pastry, stuffed with braised shank. $$$$$ Café Sambal 305-577-3454 The food here? Beer is food! The DRB serves 400 beers from 500 Brickell Key Dr. Fusion food -- a modern invention? Not in Peru, where 55 countries, ranging from $2 Pabst Blue Ribbon to $40 Balans 305-913-8358 native and Euro-Asian influences have mixed for more DeuS (an 11.5% alcohol Belgian méthode Champenoise 901 S. Miami Ave., (Mary Brickell Village), 305-534-9191 Though the Mandarin Oriental Hotel describes this space than a century. But chef Juan Chipoco gives the ceviches brew). But for those favoring solid snacks, tasty global small- Open until 4:00 a.m. on weekends, this London import as its “casual hotel restaurant,” many consider it a more and tiraditos served at this hot spot his own unique spin. ish plates include fried fresh zucchini with dip (cheese recom- (Miami’s second Balans) offers a sleeker setting than its spectacular dining setting than the upscale Azul, upstairs, Specialties include flash-marinated raw seafood cre- mended); chorizo with homemade cilantro Juneo; or steak perennially popular Lincoln Road progenitor, but the same owing to the option of dining outdoors on a covered terrace ations, such as tiradito a la crema de rocoto (sliced fish tacos, served Mexican-style with onions, cilantro, and spicy simple yet sophisticated global menu. The indoor space directly on the waterfront. The food is Asian-inspired, with a in citrus-spiked chili/cream sauce). But traditional fusion salsa. Sadly for breakfast-brew enthusiasts, the DRB isn’t can get mighty loud, but lounging on the dog-friendly out- few Latin and Mediterranean accents. For the health-con- dishes like Chinese-Peruvian Chaufa fried rice (packed open that early. But it is open late -- till 5:00 a.m. $$ door terrace, over a rich croque monsieur (which comes scious, the menu includes low-cal choices. For hedonists with jumbo shrimp, mussels, and calamari) are also fun, with an alluringly sweet/sour citrus-dressed side salad), a there’s a big selection of artisan sakes. $$$-$$$$$ as well as surprisingly affordable. $$ Continued on page 62

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 61 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings especially known for imaginative meal-size salads, like one Iron Sushi MIA at Biscayne Continued from page 61 featuring mandarin oranges, avocado, apple, blue cheese, 120 SE 3rd Ave., 305-373-2000 20 Biscayne Blvd., 305-642-0032 raisins, candied pecans, and chicken on a mesclun bed. $$ (See Miami Shores listing) At this expansive, ultra-glam restolounge, the eclectic, mostly small-plate menu ranges from the expected Dolores, But You Can Call Me Lolita Garcia’s Seafood Grille and Fish Market La Loggia Ristorante and Lounge (grilled skirt steak with chimichurri; new-style ceviches, 1000 S. Miami Ave., 305-403-3103 398 NW N. River Dr., 305-375-0765 68 W. Flagler St., 305-373-4800 and luxe sushi rolls) to a small but tantalizing selection From the stylish setting in Miami’s historic Firehouse No. Run by a fishing family for a couple of generations, this This luxuriantly neo-classical yet warm Italian restaurant of chef Gerdy Rodriguez’s signature creations. Lunch fare 4, one would expect a mighty pricy meal. But entrées, venerable Florida fish shack is the real thing. No worries was unquestionably a pioneer in revitalizing downtown. includes modernized “Minuta” fish sandwiches (avocado/ which range from Nuevo Latino-style ginger/orange-glazed about the seafood’s freshness; on their way to the dining With alternatives like amaretto-tinged pumpkin agnolloti habanero vinaigrette-dressed hamachi on nori Kaiser pork tenderloin to a platter of Kobe mini-burgers, all cost deck overlooking the Miami River, diners can view the retail in sage butter sauce and cilantro-spiced white bean/veg- rolls), while dinner offers edgier inventions like confit either $18 or $23. And the price includes an appetizer fish market. Best preparations are the simplest. When stone etable salad dressed with truffle oil, proprietors Jennifer pork belly with a panko-crusted egg yolk capsula, the yolk -- no low-rent crapola, either, but treats like Serrano ham crabs are in season, Garcia’s claws are as good as Joe’s but Porciello and Horatio Oliveira continue to draw a lunch nitrogen-frozen before frying to achieve a crisp crust and croquetas, a spinach/leek tart with Portobello mushroom considerably cheaper. The local fish sandwich is most popu- crowd that returns for dinner, or perhaps just stays on delightfully improbable oozing interior. $$$ sauce, or shrimp-topped eggplant timbales. The best lar – grouper, yellowtail snapper, or mahi mahi. $-$$ through the afternoon, fueled by the Lawyer’s Liquid Lunch, seats are on the glam rooftop patio. $$$ a vodka martini spiked with sweetened espresso. $$$ Miami’s Chophouse Giovana Caffe 300 S. Biscayne Blvd.,305-938-9000 Ecco Pizzateca & Lounge 154 SE 1st Ave., 305-374-1024 La Moon Formerly Manny’s Steakhouse, Miami’s Chophouse 168 SE 1st St If the menu at this charming downtown hideaway contained 144 SW 8th St., 305-860-6209 retains basically everything but the famed name (from 305-960-1900 only one item -- pear and gorgonzola ravioli dressed, not At four in the morning, nothing quells the munchies like a the original Manny’s in Minneapolis), and remains Masterminded by Aramis Lorie (of PS14) and partner drowned, in sage-spiced cream sauce -- we’d be happy. Crazy Burger, a Colombian take on a trucker’s burger: beef Miami’s most intentionally masculine steakhouse. Brian Basti, this hip hangout was designed to entice But the café, formerly lunch-only but now serving weekday patty, bacon, ham, mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, and a fried Here, ensconced in your black leather booth, everything downtown workers to linger after office hours. And even dinners, is also justly famed for meal-size salads like grilled egg, with an arepa corn pancake “bun.” While this tiny place’s is humongous: dry-aged choice-grade steaks like the without the expansive, casual-chic space as bait, interna- skirt steak atop sweetly balsamic-dressed spinach (with late hours (till 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday) are surprising, Bludgeon of Beef (a boldly flavorful 40-ounce bone-in tionally award-winning Italian pizza chef Massimo Fabio spinach, tomatoes, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, blue cheese, the daytime menu is more so. In addition to Colombian clas- ribeye, described as “part meat, part weapon”); king crab Bruni’s exquisitely airy, burn-blistered pies, made from and almonds), or an especially lavish chicken salad with pine sics, there’s a salad Nicoise with grilled fresh tuna, seared legs that dwarf the plate; cocktail shrimp that could swal- homemade dough, could do the trick. The rest of the nuts, golden raisins, apples, and basil, an Italian twist. $$ salmon with mango salsa, and other yuppie favorites. $-$$ low the Loch Ness monster whole; two-fisted cocktails organically oriented menu June also great, but with pizzas that would fell a T-Rex. Not for the frail. $$$$$ like the cream/mushroom-topped Bianca beckoning, we’ll Grimpa Steakhouse La Provence never know. $-$$$ 901 Brickell Plaza, 305-455-4757 1064 Brickell Ave., 786-425-9003 Miami’s Finest Caribbean Restaurant This expansive indoor/outdoor Brazilian eatery is sleekly Great baguettes in the bread basket, many believe, indicate 236 NE 1st Ave., 305-381-9254 Eos contemporary, but no worries. The classic sword-wielding a great meal to come. But when Miamians encounter such Originally from Jamaica, proprietor Miss Pat has been serving 485 Brickell Ave. (Viceroy Hotel), 305-503-0373 gauchos are here, serving a mind-reeling assortment of bread -- crackling crust outside; moist, aromatic, aerated her traditional homemade island specialties to downtown Unlike their Michelin-starred New Adriatic restaurant skewered beef, chicken, lamb, pork, sausages, and fish. interior -- it’s likely not from a restaurant’s own kitchen, but office workers and college students since the early 1990s. Anthos, in Manhattan, this venture of chef Michael And included in the price (dinner $47, lunch $34) is the from La Provence. Buttery croissants and party-perfect pas- Most popular item here might be the weekday lunch special of Psilakis and restaurateur Donatella Arpaia has influences traditional belly-busting buffet of hot and cold prepared tries are legend too. Not so familiar is the bakery’s café com- jerk chicken with festival (sweet-fried cornmeal bread patties), ranging way beyond Greece to the whole Mediterranean foods, salad, cold cuts, and cheeses. A pleasant, nontra- ponent, whose sandwich/salad menu reflects local eclectic but even vegetarians are well served with dishes like a tofu, region, and even Latin America. Unchanged is Psilakis’ ditional surprise: unusual sauces like sweet/tart passion tastes. But French items like pan bagnats (essentially salade carrot, and chayote curry. All entrées come with rice and peas, solid creativity, and a beautiful sense of balance that fruit or mint, tomato-based BBQ, and mango chutney, Niçoise on artisan bread) will truly transport diners to co- fried plantains, and salad, so no one leaves hungry. $ makes even very unfamiliar combinations taste acces- along with the ubiquitous chimichurri. $$$$-$$$$$ owner David Thau’s Provençal homeland. $$ sible. So skip the safe stuff and go for the luxuriantly Morgans Restaurant custardy, egg yolk-enriched lobster and sea urchin risotto, Il Gabbiano Le Boudoir Brickell 28 NE 29th St., 305-573-9678 or any raw seafood item, especially the unique marlin with 335 S. Biscayne Blvd., 305-373-0063 188 SE 12th Terr., 305-372-233 Housed in a beautifully refurbished 1930s private home, pistachio, apricot, and house-cured speck. $$$-$$$$ Its location at the mouth of the Miami River makes this At this French bakery/café, mornings start seriously, with Morgans serves eclectic, sometimes internationally influenced ultra-upscale Italian spot (especially the outdoor terrace) choices ranging from quality cheese, charcuterie/pâté, or contemporary American cuisine compelling enough to attract Fratelli Milano the perfect power lunch/business dinner alternative smoked salmon platters to chic Continental and complete hordes. Dishes are basically comfort food, but ultimate comfort 213 S. Miami Ave., 305-373-2300 to steakhouses. And the culinary experience goes way American breakfasts. At lunch, generously salad-garnished, food: the most custardy, fluffy French toast imaginable; shoe- Downtown isn’t yet a 24/7 urban center, but it’s experi- beyond the typical meat market, thanks in part to the open-faced tartines are irresistible. But sophisticated string frites that rival Belgium’s best; mouthwatering maple-bast- encing a mini explosion of eateries open at night. That flood of freebies that’s a trademark of Manhattan’s Il salads and homemade soups make the choice tough. And ed bacon; miraculously terrific tofu (crisply panko-crusted and includes this family-owned ristorante, where even new- Mulino, originally run by Il Gabbiano’s owners. The rest do not skip dessert. Superb sweets include rich almond/ apricot/soy-glazed); even a “voluptuous grilled cheese sandwich” comers feel at home. At lunch it’s almost impossible to of the food? Pricy, but portions are mammoth. And the fresh raspberry or properly tangy lemon tarts, traditional -- definitely a “don’t ask, don’t tell your cardiologist” item. $$-$$$ resist panini, served on foccacia or crunchy ciabatta; even champagne-cream-sauced housemade ravioli with black Madeleines, airy layered mousses, and addictive mini-mac- the vegetarian version bursts with complex and comple- truffles? Worth every penny. $$$$$ aroon sandwich cookies with daily-changing fillings. $-$$ Novecento mentary flavors. During weekday dinners, try generous 1414 Brickell Ave., 305-403-0900 plates of risotto with shrimp and grilled asparagus; home- Indochine Martini 28 For those who think “Argentine cuisine” is a synonym for made pastas like seafood-packed fettuccine al scoglio; or 638 S. Miami Ave., 305-379-1525 146 SE 1st Ave., 305-577-4414 “beef and more beef,” this popular eatery’s wide range of delicate Vitello alla Milanese on arugula. $$-$$$ Indochine has succeeded by morphing from mere restau- This stylish little lunch-only spot, a labor of love from more cosmopolitan contemporary Argentine fare will be a rant into hip hangout. Copious special events draw every- a husband-wife chef team, serves what might well be revelation. Classic parrilla-grilled steaks are here for tradi- Fresco California Bistro one from downtown business types to the counterculture the most impressive meal deal in town. From an ambi- tionalists, but the menu is dominated by creative Nuevo 1744 SW 3rd Ave., 305-858-0608 crowd. Not that there’s anything “mere” about the range tious, daily-changing menu of fare that’s geographically Latino items like a new-style ceviche de chernia (lightly This festively decorated indoor/outdoor bistro packs a lot of food served from three Asian nations. Light eaters can eclectic but prepared with solid classic technique, diners lime-marinated grouper with jalapeños, basil, and the of party spirit into a small space, a large variety of food snack on Vietnamese summer rolls or Japanese sushi get a choice of about ten entrées (substantial stuff like refreshing sweet counterpoint of watermelon), or crab ravi- onto its menu. To the familiar Latin American/Italian equa- rolls. For bigger appetites, there are Thai curries and steak au poivre with Madeira cream sauce and roasted oli with creamy saffron sauce. Especially notable are the tion, the owners add a touch of Cal-Mex (like Tex-Mex but Vietnamese specialties like pho, richly flavored beef soup potatoes, or pignolia-crusted salmon with Dijon mustard entrée salads. $$-$$$ more health conscious). Menu offerings range from design- with meatballs, steak slices, rice noodles, and add-in sauce, potatoes, and veggies), plus soup or salad and er pizzas and pastas to custardy tamales, but the bistro’s Asian herbs and sprouts. $$-$$$ housemade dessert. For just $9.99. Told ya. $ Continued on page 64

*]TTLWO+INM! 6-!\P)^MV]M )T[W^Q[Q\" )^MV\]ZI.4  .:--A7/=:< *]TTLWO**9 !̉! ?Q\PX]ZKPI[MWNIVaÆI\JZMIL[ITILWZ [IVL_QKP6W\^ITQL_Q\PW\PMZWNNMZ[ ÆI\JZMIL[ *Q[KIaVM*T^L ___\PMJ]TTLWỎKINMKWU >ITQLI\*]TTLWO+INMWVTa 6WZ\P5QIUQ.4 7XMVM^MZaLIa6WWV̉!XU -`XQZM[ [IVL_QKPM[ !̉! ___J]TTLWỎJJYKWU 4WKI\MLJMPQVL4WMPUIVV¼[8TIbI [ITIL[ 7.. aWO]Z\[ 67? )VaX]ZKPI[MWN WZUWZM6W\^ITQL _Q\PW\PMZWNNMZ[>ITQLI\*]TTLWO+INMWVTa 78-6 -`XQZM[ KWNNMM

62 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 63 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings carpaccio with horseradish/mustard and shallot olive oil filleted) in tamarind sauce. The young chef has a heavenly (Honduras’s take on tostones), rich meal-in-a-bowl soups Continued from page 62 dipping sauces; and over-the-top playhouse desserts, one hand at tofu, too, so vegetarians are very well-served. $$ packed with seafood or meat and veggies, and more. $ with a luscious crème fraiche ice cream pop. $$$$ Tobacco Road Bay View Grille Puntino Downtown 626 S. Miami Ave., 305-374-1198 1633 N. Bayshore Dr. (Marriott Hotel) Oceanaire Seafood Room 353 SE 2nd Ave., 305-371-9661 Prohibition-era speakeasy (reputedly a fave of Al Capone), 305-536-6414 900 S. Miami Ave., 305-372-8862 The first U.S. venture of a hotelier from Naples, this stylish gay bar, strip club. Previously all these, this gritty spot has This expansive restaurant has no outdoor component, but With a dozen branches nationwide, Oceanaire June little place is open Monday through Saturday for dinner been best known since 1982 as a venue for live music, floor-to-ceiling windows and a multi-level layout means every seem more All-American seafood empire than Florida as well as lunch. Ambiance is fashionably cool Milanese primarily blues. But it also offers food from lunchtime table has a Biscayne Bay view, which we find particularly fish shack, but menus vary significantly according to rather than effusively warm Neapolitan. The food too is to late night (on weekends till 4:00 a.m.). The kitchen is enjoyable in the morning, over a fresh asparagus and regional tastes and fish. Here in Miami, chef Sean mostly contemporary rather than traditional. But in true especially known for its chili, budget-priced steaks, and Boursin cheese omelet or huevos à la cubana (fried eggs Bernal supplements signature starters like lump crab Italian style, the best stuff stays simple: an antipasto plat- burgers. There’s also surprisingly elegant fare, though, and cheese on black beans). Lunch and dinner menus are cakes with his own lightly marinated, Peruvian-style ter of imported cold cuts with crostini and housemade like a Norwegian salmon club with lemon aioli. A meat- a “greatest hits” mix (steaks, pasta, Caesar salad), featuring grouper ceviche. The daily-changing, 15-20 specimen marinated veggies; crisp-fried calamari and shrimp; airy smoker in back turns out tasty ribs. $$ appealing local accents like a hefty fried or blackened grou- seafood selection includes local fish seldom seen on gnocchi with sprightly tomato sauce, pools of melted per sandwich on ciabatta roll, with remoulade sauce. $$-$$$ local menus: pompano, parrot fish, amberjack. But even bufala mozzarella, and fresh basil. $$-$$$ Tre Italian Bistro flown-in fish (and the raw bar’s cold-water oysters) are 270 E. Flagler St., 305-373-3303 Bengal ultra-fresh. $$$$ The River Oyster Bar “Bistro” actually sounds too Old World for this cool hang- 2010 Biscayne Blvd., 305-403-1976 650 S. Miami Ave., 305-530-1915 out, from the owners of downtown old-timer La Loggia, but At this Indian eatery the décor is cool and contemporary: Pasha’s This casually cool jewel is a full-service seafood spot, as “restolounge” sounds too glitzy. Think of it as a neighbor- muted gray and earth-tone walls, tasteful burgundy ban- 1414 Brickell Ave., 305-416-5116 evidenced by tempting menu selections like soft-shell crabs hood “bistrolounge.” The food is mostly modernized Italian, quettes. And the menu touts “Modern Indian Cuisine” The original branch on Lincoln Road was instantly with grilled vegetables, corn relish, and remoulade. There with Latin and Asian accents: a prosciutto-and-fig pizza with to match the look. Classicists, however, needn’t worry. popular, and the same healthy Middle Eastern fast food are even a few dishes to please meat-and-potatoes din- Brazilian catupiry cheese; gnocchi served either as finger America’s favorite familiar north Indian flavors are here, is served at several newer outlets. The prices are low ers, like short ribs with macaroni and cheese. But oyster food (fried, with calamata olive/truffle aioli), or plated with though dishes are generally more mildly spiced and pre- enough that you might suspect Pasha’s was a tax write-off fans will find it difficult to resist stuffing themselves silly on orange-ginger sauce. But there are tomato-sauced meat- sented with modern flair. All meats are certified halal, rather than a Harvard Business School project, which it the unusually large selection, especially since oysters are balls with ri’gawt for Grandpa Vinnie, too. $$-$$$ Islam’s version of kosher — which doesn’t mean that obser- was by founders Antonio Ellek and Nicolas Cortes. Dishes served both raw and cooked – fire-roasted with sofrito but- vant orthodox Jews can eat here, but Muslims can. $$$ range from falafel and gyros to more unusual items like ter, chorizo, and manchego. There’s also a thoughtful wine Waxy O’Connor’s muhammara (tangy walnut spread) and silky labneh list and numerous artisan beers on tap. $$$ 690 SW 1st Ct., 786-871-7660 Bin No. 18 yogurt cheese. Everything from pitas to lemonade is made While the menu of this casually craic (Gaelic for “fun”) 1800 Biscayne Blvd., 786-235-7575 fresh, from scratch, daily. $-$$ Rosa Mexicano Irish pub will be familiar to fans of the South Beach Waxy’s, At this wine bar/café, the décor is a stylish mix of contempo- 900 S. Miami Ave., 786-425-1001 the location is far superior -- on the Miami River, with rary (high loft ceilings) and Old World (tables made from wine Peoples Bar-B-Que This expansive indoor/outdoor space offers a dining expe- waterfront deck. And none of Miami’s Irish eateries offers barrels). Cuisine is similarly geared to the area’s smart new 360 NW 8th St., 305-373-8080 rience that’s haute in everything but price. Few entrées as much authentic traditional fare. Especially evocative: residents: creative sandwiches and salads at lunch, tapas Oak-smoked, falling-off-the-bone tender barbecued ribs top $20. The décor is both date-worthy and family-friendly imported oak-smoked Irish salmon with housemade brown and larger internationally themed Spanish, Italian, or French (enhanced with a secret sauce whose recipe goes back sever- – festive but not kitschy. And nonsophisticates needn’t bread; puff-pastry-wrapped Irish sausage rolls; lunchtime’s charcuterie platters at night. Though the place is small and al generations) are the main draw at this Overtown institution. fear; though nachos aren’t available, there is nothing imported Irish bacon or banger “butty” sandwiches on family-run friendly, chef Alfredo Patino offers sophisticated But the chicken is also a winner, plus there’s a full menu of scary about zarape de pato (roast duck between freshly crusty baguettes, served with hand-cut fries, the latter par- snacks like the figciutto: arugula, gorgonzola dolce, caramel- soul food entrées, including what many aficionados consider made, soft corn tortillas, topped with yellow-and-habane- ticularly terrific dipped in Waxy’s curry sauce. $$ ized onions, pine nuts, fresh figs, and prosciutto. Free park- our town’s tastiest souse. And it would be unthinkable to call it ro-pepper cream sauce), or Rosa’s signature guacamole ing behind the building. $$ quits without homemade sweet potato pie or banana pudding, en molcajete, made tableside. A few pomegranate mar- Wok Town plus a bracing flop – half iced tea, half lemonade. $-$$ garitas ensure no worries. $$$ 119 SE 1st Ave., 305-371-9993 Buena Vista Bistro Judging from the takeout window, the minimalist décor 4582 NE 2nd Ave., 305-456-5909 Perricone’s Soya & Pomodoro (with communal seating), and predominance of American If a neighborhood eatery like this one — which serves 15 SE 10th St., 305-374-9449 120 NE 1st St., 305-381-9511 veggies on the menu, this Asian fast-food eatery, owned by supremely satisfying bistro food — were within walking Housed in a Revolutionary-era barn (moved from Life is complicated. Food should be simple. That’s owner Shai Ben-Ami (a Miss Yip and Domo Japones veteran) June distance of every Miami resident, we’d be a helluva hip Vermont), this market/café was one of the Brickell area’s Armando Alfano’s philosophy, which is stated above the initially seem akin to those airport Oriental steam tables. food town. Like true Parisian bistros, it’s open continu- first gentrified amenities. At lunch chicken salad is a entry to his atmospheric downtown eatery. And since Wrong. Custom-cooked by Chinese chefs, starters (like ously, every day, with prices so low that you can drop in favorite; dinner’s strong suit is the pasta list, ranging it’s also the formula for the truest traditional Italian food soy/garlic-coated edamame), salads, and have-it-your-way anytime for authentic rillettes (a rustic pâté) with a crusty from Grandma Jennie’s old-fashioned lasagna to chichi (Alfano hails from Pompeii), it’s fitting that the menu is stir-fries, fried rice, or noodle bowls burst with bold, fresh baguette, steak with from-scratch frites, salmon atop rata- fiocchi purses filled with fresh pear and gorgonzola. And dominated by authentically straightforward yet sophisti- flavor. The proof: a startlingly savory miso beef salad, with touille, or many changing blackboard specials. Portions Sunday’s $15.95 brunch buffet ($9.95 for kids) – fea- cated Italian entrées. There are salads and sandwiches, sesame/ginger/scallion dressing. Bubble tea, too! $$ are plentiful. So is free parking. $$ turing an omelet station, waffles, smoked salmon and too. The most enjoyable place to dine is the secret, open- bagels, salads, and more – remains one of our town’s air courtyard. Alfano serves dinner on Thursdays only to Buena Vista Deli most civilized all-you-can-eat deals. $$ accompany local musicians and artists. $-$$ Midtown / Wynwood / Design District 4590 NE 2nd Ave., 305-576-3945 At this casual café/bakery, co-owned by Buena Vista Prelude Thai Angel Adelita’s Café Bistro’s Claude Postel, the day starts in authentic French Adrienne Arsht Center 152 SE 1st Ave., 305-371-9748 2699 Biscayne Blvd., 305-576-1262 fashion, with fresh breakfast breads, chocolate almond 1300 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-6722 Inside a colorful courtyard that rather resembles From the street (which is actually NE 26th, not Biscayne) croissants, and other delights. At lunch cornichon- Though the opening of Barton G.’s elegant performing arts Munchkinland, this downtown “insider’s secret” serves seri- this Honduran restaurant seems unpromising, but inside garnished baguette sandwiches (containing housemade center eatery did feature a live giraffe, the food’s actually ous Thai food till 9:00 p.m. daily. Tasty classics like the four it’s bigger, better, and busier than it looks. Unlike many pâtés, sinfully rich pork rillettes, superb salami, and other more grown-up than at his original SoBe spot. The concept curries (red, green, panang, and massaman) come custom- Latin American eateries, this one sticks close to the charcuterie classics) are irresistible, and a buttery-crust- is prix fixe: Any three courses on the menu (meaning three spiced -- mild to authentically brain-searing -- and are so source and proves a crowd-pleaser. On weekends espe- ed, custardy quiche plus perfectly dressed salad costs entrées if you want) for $39. Highlights include silky, tarra- affordable there’s no guilt in splurging on superb house cially, the dining rooms are packed with families enjoying gon-inflected corn/bacon chowder, beautifully plated beef specials like crisp-coated duck or fresh snapper (whole or authentic fare like baleadas (thick corn tacos), tajadas Continued on page 65

Bagels & Company's Weekday Specials Make Bagels & Company ALL OFFERS EXPIRE AUGUST 31, 2010

Your Catering Headquarters TWO FOR FREEFFRREEEE TUESDAY LUNCH SPECIAL! Best BBAAGGEELLSS NO SHARING – NO TAKE-OUT – NO DELIVERIES - NO HOLIDAYS When you buy a dozen EVERY WEDS & THURS Nova bagels get FREE your choice of a second dozen bag e ls,, Lox a pound of our delicious HALF $ In South Florida cream cheese or a coupon Platters Start at 5 FRIDAYS YOUR5 CHOICEFRIDAYS – ANY OF OUR

good for a dozen bagels in PRICE $ REGULAR SIZE DELI SANDWICHES OOppeenn 66aamm---44ppmm ddaaiiilllyy the next 30 days..M-F only.. Any entree from our only FOR FIVE BUCKS 8.95 WITH YOUR PURCHASE OF A BEVERAGE 1111064 Biiscayne Blvd “BAIL-OUT SPECIAL” menu Restrictions Apply 11064 Biscayne Bllvd

Holidays excluded.. NO SHARING – NO TAKE-OUT – NO DELIVERIES - NO HOLIDAYS NO SHARING – NO TAKE-OUT – NO DELIVERIES - NO HOLIDAYS $8.95 lox platter available Mon-Fri only No Holidays MMiiiaaammiii FFFLLL 333333111666111

64 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings Times, giving diners something to chat about. Sandwiches Fratelli Lyon stylish indoor/outdoor Italian hangout is as casually cool as Continued from page 64 and salads can also be do-it-yourself projects, with an 4141 NE 2nd Ave., 305-572-2901 one would hope — and as affordable. There’s a five-buck unusually wide choice of main ingredients, garnishes, This Italian café has been packed since the moment it half-serving of spaghetti al pomodoro and respectable vino breads, and condiments for the creatively minded. $ opened. No surprise to any who recall owner Ken Lyon’s for under $30. And few can resist delicately thin, crunchy- little more than a fast-food combo meal. As for Postel’s pioneering Lyon Frères gourmet store on Lincoln Road (1992- crusted pizzas like the creative Dolce e Piccante or orgasmic homemade French sweets, if you grab the last Paris- Delicias Peruanas 97), another joint that was exactly what its neighborhood Carbonara. Pastas are fresh; produce is largely local; the Brest, a praline butter-cream-filled puff pastry, we June 2590 Biscayne Blvd. needed. The restaurant’s artisan salumi, cheeses, flavorful mosaic-centered décor is minimalist but inviting. And no need have to kill you. $-$$ 305-573-4634 boutique olive oils, and more are so outstanding that you can’t to be wary of the warehouse district at night: Valet parking is Seafood is the specialty at this pleasant Peruvian spot, as help wishing it also had a retail component. Entrées include free. $$-$$$ The Cheese Course it was at the nearby original Delicias, run by members of properly al dente pastas, plus some regional specialties like 3451 NE 1st Ave., 786-220-6681 the same family. The food is as tasty as ever, especially Venetian-style calves liver, rarely found outside Italy. $$$ La Provence Not so much a restaurant as an artisanal cheese shop with the reliably fresh traditional ceviches, and for those who 2200 Biscayne Blvd. complimentary prepared foods, this place’s self-service café like their fish tangy but cooked, a mammoth jalea platter. Grass 305-576-8002 component nevertheless became an instant hit. Impeccable As for nonseafood stuff, Peru practically invented fusion 28 NE 40th St., 305-573-3355 (See Brickell / Downtown listing.) ingredients and inspired combinations make even the cuisine (in the 1800s), such as two traditional noodle Chef Michael Jacobs’s menu travels beyond pan-Asian simplest salads and sandwiches unique -- like bacon and dishes: tallerin saltado and tallerin verde. $$ and Mediterranean influences into the Americas. Entrées Latin Café 2000 egg, elevated by hand-crafted cream cheese, roasted red range from comfort food (cunningly reinvented mini pot 2501 Biscayne Blvd. peppers, avocado, and chipotle Juneo. Cheese platters are 18th Street Café pies) to high-status extravagance (stone-seared, authen- 305-576-3838 exceptional, and customized for flavor preference from mild 210 NE 18th St. tic Kobe steak). For healthy grazers, raw-bar selections The menu is similar to that at many of our town’s Latin to bold, and accompanied by appropriate fruits, veggies, 305-381-8006 include ceviches and a large seafood platter. There’s also cafés, largely classic Cuban entrées and sandwiches, with nuts, olives, prepared spreads, and breads. $$ Most of the seating in this cool little breakfast/lunch room a snack menu (pristine coldwater oysters, a crab salad a smattering of touches from elsewhere in Latin America, is in a sort of giant bay window, backed with banquettes, timbale, parmesan-truffle shoestring fries, mini-Kobe such as a Peruvian jalea mixta (marinated mixed seafood), Clive’s Café that makes the space feel expansive. This pioneer- burgers) served till the wee hours, providing a welcome or paella Valenciana from Spain, which many Miami eateries 2818 N. Miami Ave., 305-576-0277 ing place deserves to survive, even if just considering alternative to the Boulevard’s fast food chains. $$-$$$$$ consider a Latin country. What justifies the new millennium Some still come for the inexpensive, hearty American the roast beef sandwich with creamy horseradish – an moniker is the more modern, yuppified/yucafied ambiance, breakfasts and lunches that this homey hole-in-the-wall inspired classic combination that makes one wonder why The Girrrlz of Sandwich encouraged by an expansive, rustic wooden deck. $$ has served for more than 30 years. Since about 1990, more places in this town don’t serve it. Other culinary 555 NE 15th St., 2nd floor (Venetia condo) though, when owner Pearline Murray (“Ms. Pearl” to regu- highlights include a turkey/pear/cheddar melt sandwich, 305-374-4305 Lemoni Café lars) and cook Gloria Chin began emphasizing their native and really sinful marshmallow-topped brownies. $ Riot Grrrl DIY spirit shines in the homemade soups, 4600 NE 2nd Ave. Jamaican specialties, the intensely spiced grilled jerk sweets, salads, and exceptionally tasty warm baguette 305-571-5080 chicken has been the main item here. Other favorites: Five Guys Famous Burger and Fries sandwiches (like prosciutto and fresh mozzarella, dressed The menu here reads like your standard sandwiches/salads/ savory rice and pigeon peas; eye-opening onion/vinegar- Shops at Midtown Miami with a unique sumac vinaigrette) at this concealed café, starters primer. What it doesn’t convey is the freshness of flavored escovitch fish; sweet plantains; and cabbage that Buena Vista Avenue hidden on the Venetia condo’s mezzanine. Owners Ana the ingredients and the care that goes into their use. Entrée- redefines the vegetable. $ 305-571-8341 Oliva and Fadia Sarkis scour local markets daily for the size salads range from an elegant spinach (goat cheese, No green-leaf faux health food here. You get what the name freshest of ingredients, and their breads (plus light-crust- pears, walnuts, raisins) to chunky homemade chicken salad The Daily Creative Food Co. says, period, with three adds: kosher dogs, veggie burgers, ed empanadas and sinful Ghirardelli chocolate cake) are on a bed of mixed greens. Sandwiches (cold baguette subs, 2001 Biscayne Blvd., 305-573-4535 and free peanuts while you wait. Which you will, just a bit, all baked in-house. On Saturdays the grrrls’ll even deliver hot pressed paninis, or wraps, all accompanied by side sal- While the food formula of this contemporary café is since burgers are made fresh upon order. Available in double you an elegant (yet inexpensive) breakfast in bed. $ ads) include a respectable Cuban and a veggie wrap with a familiar – sandwiches, salads, soups, breakfast food, and or one-patty sizes, they’re well-done but spurtingly juicy, and deceptively rich-tasting light salad cream. $-$$ pastries, plus coffee and fruit drinks – a creative concept after loading with your choice of free garnishes, even a “little” Joey’s Italian Café differentiates the place. Signature sandwiches are named burger makes a major meal. Fries (regular or Cajun-spiced) 2506 NW 2nd Ave., 305-438-0488 Continued on page 66 after national and local newspapers, including Biscayne are also superior, hand-cut in-house from sourced potatoes. $ The first new restaurant in the Wynwood Café District, this

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 65 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings Maitardi manchego and salsa verde -- a reminder that vegetarian Out of the Blue Café Continued from page 65 163 NE 39th St., 305-572-1400 food need not be bland. $$-$$$ 2426 NE 2nd Ave., 305-573-3800 Though we admired the ambitious approach of Oak Plaza’s Forget impersonal chain coffeehouses. This artist-friendly, original tenant, Brosia, this more informal, inexpensive, and Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink independent neighborhood café serves a full selection Lime Fresh Mexican Grill straightforwardly Italian concept of veteran Lincoln Road 130 NE 40th St. of coffee drinks made with the award-winning beans of Shops at Midtown Miami restaurateur Graziano Sbroggio seems a more universal 305-573-5550 Intelligentsia, a roasting company that works directly with Buena Vista Avenue, 305-576-5463 lure for the Design District’s central “town square.” The An instant smash hit, this truly neighborhood-oriented res- artisan growers to encourage sustainable agriculture. Like its South Beach predecessor, this Lime was an mostly outdoor space remains unaltered save a wood-burn- taurant from chef Michael Schwartz offers down-to-earth Also served: breakfast and lunch sandwiches, imaginative instant hit, as much for being a hip new Midtown hangout ing oven producing flavorfully char-bubbled pizza creations, fun food in a comfortable, casually stylish indoor/outdoor salads, soups, homemade pastries, and creamy fresh-fruit as for its carefully crafted Tex-Mex food. The concept plus a vintage meat slicer dispensing wild boar salamino, setting. Fresh, organic ingredients are emphasized, but smoothies. With tables, sofas, and lounge chairs inside an is “fast casual” rather than fast food – meaning nice bresaola (cured beef), and other artisan salumi. Other dishes range from cutting-edge (crispy beef cheeks with old Midtown house, plus free wireless Internet access, the enough for a night out. It also means ingredients are irresistibles: fried artichokes with lemony aioli; seafood whipped celeriac, celery salad, and chocolate reduction) to space is also just a pleasant place to hang out. $ always fresh. Seafood tacos are about as exotic as the lasagna with heavenly dill-lobster sauce. $$-$$$ simple comfort food: deviled eggs, homemade potato chips menu gets, but the mahi mahi for fish tacos comes from with pan-fried onion dip, or a whole wood-roasted chicken. Pacific Time a local supplier, and salsas are housemade daily. Niceties Mandolin Aegean Bistro There’s also a broad range of prices and portion sizes to 35 NE 40th St. include low-carb tortillas and many Mexican beers. $ 4312 NE 2nd Ave., 305-576-6066 encourage frequent visits. Michael’s Genuine also features 305-722-7369 Inside this converted 1940s home’s blue-and-white dining an eclectic, affordable wine list and a full bar. $$-$$$$ Everyone knew Jonathan Eismann’s original Pacific Time, Lost & Found Saloon room -- or even more atmospherically, its tree-sheltered gar- for many years Lincoln Road’s only serious restaurant. 185 NW 36th St., 305-576-1008 den -- diners feast on authentic rustic fare from both Greece Mike’s at Venetia How different is its new incarnation? Very, and it’s all There’s an artsy/alternative feel to this casual and friend- and Turkey. Make a meal of multinational mezes: a Greek 555 NE 15th St., 9th floor good, starting with far superior acoustics, an admirably ly Wynwood eatery, which, since opening as a weekday- sampler of creamy tzatziki yogurt dip, smoky eggplant purée, 305-374-5731 green ecological policy, and a neighborhood-friendly only breakfast and lunch joint in 2005, has grown with its and airy tarama caviar spread; and a Turkish sampler of This family-owned Irish pub, on the pool deck of the Venetia attitude. While the addition of Mediterranean influences neighborhood. It’s now open for dinner six nights a week, hummus, fava purée, and rich tomato-walnut dip. The meze condo, for more than 15 years has been a popular lunch and to the Pacific Rim menu June sound confusing, trust us: serving Southwestern-style fare at rock-bottom prices. of mussels in lemony wine broth is, with Mandolin’s fresh- dinner hang-out for local journalists and others who appreciate A meal that includes a butter-grilled asparagus with pro- Dishes like piñon and pepita-crusted salmon, chipotle- baked flatbread, almost a full meal in itself. $$-$$$ honest cheap eats and drinks. Regulars know daily specials are sciutto, soft-cooked egg Milanese, and preserved lemon; drizzled endive stuffed with lump crab, or customizable the way to go. Depending on the day, fish, churrasco, or roast plus an Asian-accented creamy corn/leek soup with Peeky tacos average $5-$8. Also available: big breakfasts and Mario the Baker turkey with all the trimmings are all prepared fresh. Big burgers Toe crab dumplings, coriander, and mustard oil makes salads, hearty soups, housemade pastries like lemon- 250 NE 25th St., 305-438-0228 and steak dinners are always good. A limited late-night menu perfect sense on the tongue. $$-$$$$ crusted wild berry pie, and a hip beer and wine list. $ (See North Miami listing) provides pizza, wings, ribs, and salad till 3:00 a.m. $-$$ Pasha’s Maino Churrascaria Mercadito Midtown Orange Café + Art 3801 N. Miami Ave., 305-573-0201 2201 Biscayne Blvd. 3252 NE 1st Ave. 2 NE 40th St. (See Brickell/Downtown listing) 305-571-9044 786-369-0423 305-571-4070 This very upscale Brazilian steakhouse has all the features Some people frequent this fashionable restolounge, The paintings hanging in this tiny, glass-enclosed café Pizzavolante you expect, including all-you-can-eat meats carved tableside festooned with graffiti-style murals designed to evoke a are for sale. And for those who don’t have thousands of 3918 N. Miami Ave., 305-573-5325 and a lavish buffet. What sets Maino apart from typical rodizio bustling Mexican street market, just for the dangerously dollars to shell out for the local art on the walls, less than At this tiny pizza/mozzarella bar, Jonathan Eismann’s palaces is its family-run feel, intimate rather than intimidating, smooth margaritas. But the main must-haves here are ten bucks will get you art on a plate, including a Picasso: inspired topping combos and astonishingly high-quality plus its attention to every detail. While it’s rare at most rodizio tacos, encased in a rarity: genuinely made-from-scratch chorizo, prosciutto, manchego cheese, baby spinach, ingredients prove that star-chef skills are not wasted on joints to get meat done less than medium, Maino will cook corn tortillas, small but fatly-stuffed. Of 11 varieties, our and basil on a crusty baguette. Other artfully named and humble fare. Carnivores must try the Cacciatorini, an to order. One other welcome difference: There are à la carte favorite is the carnitas (juicy braised pork, spicy chili de crafted edibles include salads, daily soups, several pastas starters and pastas for lighter eaters and noncarnivores, and arbol slaw, toasted peanuts). A close second: the hongos, (like the Matisse, fiocchi pouches filled with pears and Continued on page 67 some lunch specials. Free parking, too. $$-$$$$$ intensely flavorful huitlacoche and wild mushrooms, with cheese), and house-baked pastries. $

66 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings anyone with working taste buds will discern the difference side or as the base for a uniquely tasty take on normal Tony Chan’s Water Club Continued from page 66 in chef/owner Jonathan Eismann’s vinegar-basted North nachos). Other pluses include weekday happy hours with 1717 N. Bayshore Dr., 305-374-8888 Carolina-style pulled pork, his tender-firm (rather than inau- two-for-one beers -- and free parking. $-$$ The décor at this upscale place, located in the Grand, thentically falling-off-the-bone) dry-rubbed spareribs, succu- looks too glitzy to serve anything but politely Americanized ultra-thin and crispy crust with indescribably rich guancia- lently fatty briskets, and juicy chickens. Tabletop housemade S & S Diner Chinese food. But the American dumbing-down is minimal. le (cured, unsmoked pork cheek bacon), pungent artisan sauces (particularly a piquant mustard-cider St. Louis potion) 1757 NE 2nd Ave., 305-373-4291 Many dishes are far more authentic and skillfully prepared pepperoni, grana padano, locally made mozzarella, and are enhancers, not essentials. $$-$$$ Some things never change, or so it seems at this classic than those found elsewhere in Miami, like delicate but Italian tomatoes. For meatless pies, we recommend the diner. Open since 1938, people still line up on Saturday flavorful yu pan quail. Moist sea bass fillet has a beautifully Bianca, a thyme-seasoned pizza whose plentiful cheeses Sakaya Kitchen mornings, waiting for a seat at the counter and enormous balanced topping of scallion, ginger, cilantro, and subtly are beautifully balanced by bitter arugula. Bring a crowd Shops at Midtown Miami breakfasts: corned beef hash or crab cakes and eggs sweet/salty sauce. And Peking duck is served as three tra- and taste half-a-dozen different mozzarellas. $$ Buena Vista Avenue, 305-576-8096 with grits; fluffy pancakes; homemade biscuits with gravy ditional courses: crêpe-wrapped crispy skin, meat sautéed This chef-driven, fast-casual Asian eatery is more an iza- and Georgia sausage – everything from oatmeal to eggs with crisp veggies, savory soup to finish. $$-$$$ Primo’s kaya (in Japan, a pub with food) than a sakaya (sake shop). Benedict. The lunch menu is a roll call of the usual sus- 1717 N. Bayshore Dr., 305-371-9055 But why quibble about words with so many more intriguing pects, but most regulars ignore the menu and go for the W Wine Bistro The imposing, cavernous lobby of the Grand doesn’t have things to wrap your mouth around? The concept takes on daily blackboard specials. $-$$ 3622 NE 2nd Ave. that “do drop in” locals’ hangout vibe. But this lively Italian street-food favorites from all over Asia, housemade daily 305-576-7775 spot is actually a great addition to the neighborhood. The from quality fresh ingredients. French Culinary Institute- Sra. Martinez Both bistro and retail wine shop, this Design District spot pizzas alone – brick-oven specimens with toppings rang- trained Richard Hales does change his menu, so we’d 4000 NE 2nd Ave., 305-573-5474 is run by Florent Blanchet, an energetic young Frenchman ing from classic pepperoni to prosciutto/arugula – would advise immediately grabbing some crispy Korean chicken No Biscayne Corridor resident needs to be told that this who was previously a wine distributor. His former gig led be draw enough. But pastas also please: diners’ choice wings and Chinese-inspired, open-faced roast pork buns lively tapas bar is the second restaurant that Upper Eastside to connections that mean if wine lovers don’t find the of starch, with mix-and-match sauces and extras. And the with sweet chili sauce and homemade pickles. $$ homegrrrl Michelle Bernstein has opened in the area. But it’s bottle they want, Blanchet can probably get it within 24 price is right, with few entrées topping $20. The capper: It’s no absentee celebrity-chef gig. Bernstein is hands-on at both hours. Food is sophisticated light bites like a shrimp club open past midnight every day but Sunday. $$ Sake Room places. Her exuberant yet firmly controlled personal touch sandwich with pancetta and sun-dried tomato aioli, and 275 NE 18th St., 305-755-0122 is obvious in nearly four dozen hot and cold tapas on the smoked duck salad with goat cheese croutons and a Primo Pizza Miami Sake takes a back seat to sushi – and sophisticated menu. Items are frequently reinvented. Keepers include wild poached egg. At night there are tapas. $-$$ 3451 NE 1st Ave., 305-535-2555 décor – at this small but sleek restolounge. Among the mushroom/manchego croquetas with fig jam; white bean Just a few years ago, chain pizza joints were dominant seafood offerings, you won’t find exotica or local catches, stew; crisp-coated artichokes with lemon/coriander dip; and most everywhere. Today many places now offer authentic but all the usual sushi/sashimi favorites, though in buttery bone marrow piqued with Middle Eastern spices and Upper Eastside Italian or delicate designer pizzas. But a satisfying Brookyn- more interesting form, thanks to sauces that go beyond balanced by tiny pickled salads. $$$ style street slice? Fuhgedit. Thankfully that’s the speciality standard soy – spicy sriracha, garlic/ponzu oil, and many Andiamo of this indoor/outdoor pizzeria: big slices with chewy crusts more. Especially recommended: the yuzu hamachi roll, Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill 5600 Biscayne Blvd. (made from imported NY tap water) that aren’t ultra-thin the lobster tempura maki, and panko-coated spicy shrimp 3250 NE 1st Ave.,786-369-0353 305-762-5751 and crisp, but flexible enough to fold lengthwise, and medi- with hot-and-sour Juneo and a salad. $$-$$$ This chic indoor/outdoor space is an offspring of Lincoln Sharing a building with a long-established Morningside um-thick -- sturdy enough to support toppings applied with Road’s SushiSamba Dromo and a sibling of Sugarcane car wash, Andiamo is also part of Mark Soyka’s 55th generous all-American abandon. Take-out warning: Picking Salsa Fiesta lounges in NYC and Las Vegas, but more informal than Street Station – which means ditching the car (in the up a whole pie? Better bring the SUV, not the Morris Mini. 2929 Biscayne Blvd., 305-400-8245 the former and more food-oriented than the latter, as complex’s free lot across the road on NE 4th Court) is no The first stateside offshoot of a popular Venezuelan mini three kitchens -- normal, raw bar, and robata charcoal grill problem even if you’re not getting your vehicle cleaned Q chain, this “urban Mexican grill” serves health-conscious, -- make clear. Chef Timon Balloo’s LatAsian small plates while consuming the brick-oven pies (from a flaming open 4029 N. Miami Ave., 305-227-2378 made-fresh-daily fare similar in concept to some fast- range from subtle orange/fennel-marinated salmon crudo oven) that are this popular pizzeria’s specialty, along with Unlike most urban barbecue joints, this neo-rustic road- casual competitors. But there are indeed differences to intensely smoky-rich short ribs. At the daily happy hour, house uses a genuine wood/charcoal-fired Bewley pit from here, notably pan-Latin options: black beans as well as select dishes (like steamed pork buns with apple kimchi) Continued on page 68 Texas to flavor its subtly smoky slow-cooked barbecue. And red; thin, delightfully crunchy tostones (available as a are discounted. $$-$$$

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 67 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings Dogma Grill 7030 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-3433 Continued from page 67 What could induce downtown businessmen to drive to the Upper Eastside to eat at a few outdoor-only tables just executive chef Frank Cr upi’s famed Philly cheese steak feet from the busy Boulevard? From the day it opened, sandwiches. Also available are salads and panini plus rea- people have been lining up for this stand’s sauce-gar- sonably priced wines and beers, including a few unusually nished, all-beef, soy veggie, turkey, and chicken hot dogs. sophisticated selections like Belgium’s Hoegaarden. $$ The 22 varieties range from simple to the elaborate (the Athens, topped with a Greek salad, including extra-virgin Anise Taverna olive oil dressing) to near-unbelievable combinations like 620 NE 78th St. the VIP, which includes parmesan cheese and crushed 305-758-2929 pineapple. New addition: thick, juicy burgers. $ The new owners of this river shack are banking on Greek food and festivity for success — a good bet, judging from East Side Pizza their wildly popular previous eatery, Ouzo. The mainly mezze 731 NE 79th St., 305-758-5351 menu ranges from traditional Greek small plates to creative Minestrone, sure. But a pizzeria menu with carrot ginger Mediterranean-inspired dishes like anise-scented fish cro- soup? Similarly many Italian-American pizzerias offer quettes with spicy aioli. But don’t neglect large plates like entrées like spaghetti and meatballs, but East Side also whole grilled Mediterranean fish (dorade or branzino), filleted has pumpkin ravioli in brown butter/sage sauce, wild tableside. The interior is charming, and the outdoor deck on mushroom ravioli, and other surprisingly upscale choices, the Little River is positively romantic. $$-$$$ including imported Peroni beer. As for the pizza, they are classic pies, available whole or by the slice, made with Boteco fresh plum tomato sauce and Grande mozzarella (con- 916 NE 79th St., 305-757-7735 sidered the top American pizza cheese). Best seating for This strip of 79th Street is rapidly becoming a cool alt- eating is at the sheltered outdoor picnic tables. $ culture enclave thanks to inviting hangouts like this rustic indoor/outdoor Brazilian restaurant and bar. Especially La Q-Bana bustling on nights featuring live music, it’s even more fun 8650 Biscayne Blvd., 305-758-2550 on Sundays, when the fenced backyard hosts an informal In case you were wondering if it’s too good to be true -- it isn’t. fair and the menu includes Brazil’s national dish, feijoada, El Q-Bano’s owners are indeed related to the family that oper- a savory stew of beans plus fresh and cured meats. ates the original three Palacios de los Jugos -- which means But the everyday menu, ranging from unique, tapas-like no more schlepping way out west. Recommended are moist pasteis to hefty Brazilian entrées, is also appealing – and tamales, tasty sandwiches (especially the drippingly wonderful budget-priced. $$ pan con lechon), rich flan, and the fresh tropical juices that justify the aforementioned excesses. For even heartier eaters, Le Café there’s a changing buffet of daily specials and sides. $-$$ 7295 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-6551 For anyone who can’t get over thinking of French food as Europa Car Wash and Café intimidating or pretentious, this cute café with a warm 6075 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-2357 welcome, and family-friendly French home cooking, is Giving new meaning to the food term “fusion,” Europa the antidote. No fancy food (or fancy prices) here, just serves up sandwiches, salads, car washes, coffee with crois- classic comfort food like onion soup, escargot, daily fresh sants, and Chevron with Techron. Snacks match the casual oysters, boeuf bourguignon (think Ultimate Pot Roast), chicness: sandwiches like the Renato (prosciutto, hot cappic- Nicoise salad, quiche, and homemade crème brûlée. A ola, pepper jack cheese, red peppers, and Romano cheese respectable beer and wine list is a welcome addition, as dressing); an elaborate almond-garnished Chinese chicken is the housemade sangria. Top price for entrées is about salad; H&H bagels, the world’s best, flown in from NYC. $14. $-$$ And the car cleanings are equally gentrified, especially on Wednesdays, when ladies are pampered with $10 washes Casa Toscana and glasses of sparkling wine while they wait. $ 7001 Biscayne Blvd. 305-758-3353 Garden of Eatin’ Tuscan-born chef/owner Sandra Stefani cooked at 136 NW 62nd St., 305-754-8050 Norman’s before opening this Upper Eastside jewel, Housed in a yellow building that’s nearly invisible from the whose 30 original seats have been supplemented by a street, the Garden has the comfortable feel of a beach wine room/garden for tasting events and private dining. bar, and generous servings of inexpensive Afro-Caribbean Stefani travels regularly to Italy to find exciting, limited- vegan food. Large or small plates, with salad and fried production wines and inspiration for truly Tuscan specials sweet plantains (plus free soup for eat-in lunchers), are with honest, authentic flavors, such as grilled wild boar served for five or seven bucks. Also available are snacks sausages with lentil croquettes. Menu favorites include like vegetarian blue corn tacos, desserts like sweet potato pear and ricotta raviolini, grilled eggplant slices rolled pie, and a breakfast menu featuring organic blueberry around herbed goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, and waffles with soy sausage patties. $ a light ricotta tart with lemon and rosemary. $$$ Gourmet Station Chef Creole 7601 Biscayne Blvd., 305-762-7229 200 NW 54th St., 305-754-2223 Home-meal replacement, geared to workaholics with Sparkling fresh Creole-style food is the star at chef/owner no time to cook, has been popular for years. But the Wilkinson Sejour’s two tiny but popular establishments. Gourmet Station has outlasted most of the competition. While some meatier Haitian classics like griot (fried pork Main reason: deceptive healthiness. These are meals chunks) and oxtail stew are also available – and a $3.99 that are good for you, yet taste good enough to be bad for roast chicken special – seafood is the specialty here: you. Favorite items include precision-grilled salmon with crevette en sauce (steamed shrimp with Creole butter lemon-dill yogurt sauce, and lean turkey meatloaf with sauce), lambi fri (perfectly tenderized fried conch), pois- homemade BBQ sauce – sin-free comfort food. Food is son gros sel (local snapper in a spicy butter sauce), garlic available à la carte or grouped in multimeal plans custom- or Creole crabs. The Miami branch has outdoor tiki-hut ized for individual diner’s nutritional needs. $$ dining. $-$$ Go To Sushi DeVita’s 5140 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-0914 7251 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-8282 This friendly, family-run Japanese fast-food eatery offers This Italian/Argentine pizzeria, housed in a charming bun- original surprises like the Caribbean roll (a festively green galow and featuring a breezy patio, covers multicultural parsley-coated maki stuffed with crispy fried shrimp, avo- bases. If the Old World Rucola pizza (a classic Margherita cado, sweet plantain, and spicy Juneo), or a wonderfully topped with arugula, prosciutto, and shredded parmesan) healthful sesame-seasoned chicken soup with spinach, doesn’t do the trick, the New World Especial (a Latin pie with rice noodles, and sizable slices of poultry. Health ensured, hearts of palm and boiled eggs) just might. Also available are you can the enjoy a guiltless pig-out on Fireballs: fried pastas, salads, sandwiches, dinner entrées (eggplant parmi- dumplings of chicken, cabbage, and egg, crusted with giana with spaghetti, lomito steak with Argentinean potato quills -- really a delectable crunchy noodle mix. $ salad), and desserts (tiramisu or flan). $ Continued on page 69

68 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings can add up fast. The star herself is usually in the kitchen. Parking in the rear off 69th Street. $$$-$$$$ Continued from page 68 Moonchine Jimmy’s East Side Diner 7100 Biscayne Blvd. 7201 Biscayne Blvd. 305-759-3999 305-754-3692 Like its Brickell-area sibling Indochine, this friendly Asian Open for more than 30 years, Jimmy’s respects the most bistro serves fare from three nations: Japan, Thailand, important American diner tradition: Breakfast at any and Vietnam. Menus are also similar, split between hour. Admittedly the place closes at 4:00 p.m., but still. traditional dishes like pad Thai and East/West fusion There are blueberry hot cakes and pecan waffles; eggs creations like the Vampire sushi roll (shrimp tempura, any style, including omelets and open-face frittatas; and tomato, cilantro, roasted garlic). But it also carves out its a full range of sides: biscuits and sausage gravy, grits, own identity with original creations, including yellow cur- hash, hash browns, even hot oatmeal. Also available are ry-spiced fried rice. Nearly everything is low in sodium, traditional diner entrées (meat loaf, roast turkey, liver fat, and calories. A large rear patio is inviting for dining and onions), plus burgers, salad platters, and homemade and entertainment. $$-$$$ chicken soup. $-$$ Moshi Moshi Kingdom 7232 Biscayne Blvd., 786-220-9404 6708 Biscayne Blvd., 305-757-0074 This offspring of South Beach old-timer Moshi Moshi is This indoor/outdoor sports bar serves low-priced but high- a cross between a sushi bar and an izakaya (Japanese quality steaks, plus more typical bar food that’s actually far tapas bar). Even more striking than the hip décor is the from the usual processed stuff. Philly cheese steak sand- food’s unusually upscale quality. Sushi ranges from wiches, big enough for two, are made from hand-sliced rib pristine individual nigiri to over-the-top maki rolls. Tapas eye; sides include fries and beer-battered onion rings, but also are intriguing, like arabiki sausage, a sweet-savory pork lightly lemony sautéed spinach. And the burgers rule, particu- fingerling frank; rarely found in restaurants even in Japan, larly the Doomsday, a cheese/bacon/mushroom-topped two- they’re popular Japanese home-cooking items. And rice- pound monster that turns dinner into a competitive sport. No based plates like Japanese curry (richer/sweeter than hard liquor, but the beer list makes up for it. $$ Indian types) satisfy even the biggest appetites. $-$$$ Luna Café News Lounge 4770 Biscayne Blvd., 305-573-5862 5582 NE 4th Ct., 305-758-9932 The ground floor of the Wachovia Bank building June not Mark Soyka’s new News is, as its name suggests, more a seem a particularly evocative locale for an Italian eatery, friendly neighborhood hangout and watering hole than a but once inside, the charming décor and the staff’s ebul- full-fledged eatery. Nevertheless the menu of light bites lient welcome indeed are reminiscent of a café in Italy. is — along with other lures like an inviting outdoor patio The kitchen’s outstanding feature is a brick oven, which and rest rooms that resemble eclectic art galleries — part turns out designer pizzas and crisp-skinned roast chick- of the reason visitors stay for hours. Especially recom- ens. Otherwise the menu holds few surprises – except mended are fat mini-burgers with chipotle ketchup; a brie, the prices, unusually low for such a stylish place. No dish turkey, and mango chutney sandwich on crusty baguette; exceeds $22. $$-$$$ and what many feel is the original café’s Greatest Hit: creamy hummus with warm pita. $ Luna Corner Pizza 6815 Biscayne Blvd., 305-507-9209 Red Light At this cheerful takeout/delivery place (masterminded by 7700 Biscayne Blvd. the Amatruda family, pizza-makers in Italy since 1968), the 305-757-7773 concept is fast but high-quality whole pies or single slices. From the rustic al fresco deck of chef Kris Wessel’s Sauce is from flavorful San Marzano tomatoes, and toppings intentionally downwardly mobile retro-cool riverfront include imported salami picante, pleasantly spicier than restaurant, you can enjoy regional wildlife like manatees American pepperoni. Proprietary electric ovens, designed while enjoying eclectic regional dishes that range from to transform Luna’s secret 24-flour formula into perfectly cutting-edge (sour-orange-marinated, sous-vide-cooked pliable/foldable crusts in under five minutes, ensure consis- Florida lobster with sweet corn sauce) to comfort (crispy- tently street-neat eats despite the slices’ massive size (big breaded Old South fried green tomatoes). Not surpris- pies are 20-inchers). $ ingly, the chef-driven menu is limited, but several signa- ture specialties, if available, are not to be missed: BBQ Magnum Lounge shrimp in a tangy Worcestershire and cayenne-spiked 709 NE 79th St., 305-757-3368 butter/wine sauce, irresistible mini conch fritters, and It’s a restaurant. It’s a lounge. But it’s decidedly not a typical homemade ice cream. $$-$$$ Miami restolounge, or like anything else in Miami. Forbidding from the outside, on the inside it’s like a time-trip to a cabaret Revales Italian Ristorante in pre-WWII Berlin: bordello-red décor, romantically dim light- 8601 Biscayne Blvd. ing, show-tune live piano bar entertainment, and to match the 305-758-1010 ambiance, elegantly updated retro food served with style and Owned by two couples (including former Village Café chef a smile. For those feeling flush, home-style fried chicken is just Marlon Reyes), this eclectic eatery occupies the former like mom used to make — in her wildest dreams. $$$ space of Frankie’s Big City Grill, and fulfills much the same purpose in the neighborhood as an all-day, family- Metro Organic Bistro friendly place with affordable prices. The menu includes 7010 Biscayne Blvd., 305-751-8756 wraps and elaborate salads of all nations. But simple Big changes have come to Karma the car wash, the first yet sophisticated Italian specialties like spaghetti ai being a separate new name for the revamped restaurant: fiume (with pancetta, tomato, garlic, basil, and a touch of Metro Organic Bistro, an all-organic fine-dining restaurant cream) or yellowtail française (egg-battered, with lemon- where simple preparations reveal and enhance natural caper-wine sauce) are the must-haves here. $$-$$$ flavors. An entirely new menu places emphasis on grilled organic meat and fish dishes. Try the steak frites — Royal Bavarian Schnitzel Haus organic, grass-fed skirt steak with organic chimichurri and 1085 NE 79th St. fresh-cut fries. Vegetarians will love the organic portabella 305-754-8002 foccacia. Dine either inside the architect-designed restau- With Christmas lights perpetually twinkling and party noises rant or outdoors on the patio. Beer and wine. $-$$$ emanating from a new outdoor biergarten, this German res- taurant is owner Alex Richter’s one-man gentrification project, Michy’s transforming a formerly uninviting stretch of 79th Street one 6927 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-2001 pils at a time. The fare includes housemade sausages (mild Don’t even ask why Michele Bernstein, with a top-chef veal bratwurst, hearty mixed beef/pork bauernwurst, spicy résumé, not to mention regular Food Network appearanc- garlicwurst) with homemade mustard and catsup; savory yet es, opened a homey restaurant in an emerging but far from near-greaseless potato pancakes; and, naturally, schnitzels, fully gentrified neighborhood. Just be glad she did, as you a choice of delicate pounded pork, chicken, or veal patties dine on white almond gazpacho or impossibly creamy ham served with a half-dozen different sauces. $$-$$$ and blue cheese croquetas. Though most full entrées also come in half-size portions (at almost halved prices), the tab Continued on page 70

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 69 Dining Guide Restaurant Listings Yiya’s Gourmet Cuban Bakery Japanese Market and Sushi Deli NORTH BEACH Continued from page 69 646 NE 79th St., 305-754-3337 1412 79th St. Causeway, 305-861-0143 A true community jewel, this bakery is also a most wel- Inside a small market that is widely considered Miami’s premier Café Prima Pasta coming café, serving lunch specials from chef Delsa source of Japanese foodstuffs, the “Sushi Deli” restaurant com- 414 71st St., 305-867-0106 Soyka Bernardo (who co-owns the place with attorney Abbie ponent is nothing more than a lunch counter. But chef Michio Opened in 1993 with 28 seats, this family-run landmark 5556 NE 4th Court, 305-759-3117 Cuellar) that are homemade right down to the herbs Kushi serves up some sushi found nowhere else in town. has now taken over the block, with an outdoor terrace This expansive, contemporary hangout was often credited grown on the bakery’s window sills. Bernardo’s pan con Example: traditional Osaka-style sushi – layers of rice, seasoned and multi-roomed indoor space whose walls are full of with almost single-handedly sparking the revitalization of lechon sandwiches and flaky-crusted Cuban pastries are seaweed, and marinated fresh mackerel, pressed into a square photos of their clientele, including national and local the Biscayne Corridor’s Upper Eastside. Soyka remains legend. But she also crafts treats not found at average box, then cut into lovely one-bite sandwich squares. While raw celebs. Particularly popular are homemade pastas, a solid neighborhood restaurant that is a perfect fit for Cuban bakeries, like pizzas using housemade Indian naan fish is always impeccable here, some unusual vegetarian sushi sauced with Argentine-Italian indulgence rather than its area. Comfortably priced yuppie comfort food like bread. Additionally Bernardo carries unique treats pro- creations also tempt, as do daily entrées. $ Italian simplicity: crabmeat ravioletti in lobster cream meatloaf with mashed potatoes, crab cakes with spicy- duced by a few friends: candies, cupcakes, and exotically sauce, black squid ink linguini heaped with seafood. sweet slaw, a wild mushroom/smoked mozzarella pizza, flavored flans. $ Mario the Baker Though romantic enough for dates, the place is quite kid- or a Cobb salad June not be revolutionary fare, but Soyka 1700 79th St. Causeway, 305-867-7882 friendly — and on the terrace, they’ll even feed Fido. $$$ continues to thrive while more ambitious, nationally pub- (See North Miami listing) licized restaurants have come and gone. Take-out orders NORTH BAY VILLAGE Tamarind Thai and breakfast are now available. $$-$$$ Oggi Caffe 946 Normandy Dr., 305-861-6222 Bocados Ricos 1666 79th St. Causeway, 305-866-1238 When an eatery’s executive chef is best-selling Thai Sushi Siam 1880 79th St. Causeway, 305-864-4889 This cozy, romantic spot started back in 1989 as a pasta cookbook author Vatcharin Bhumichitr, you’d expect 5582 NE 4th Ct., 305-751-7818 Tucked into a mall best known for its Happy Stork Lounge, factory (supplying numerous high-profile restaurants) as major media hype, fancy South Beach prices, and a fancy On the menu of sushi-bar specialties plus a small selec- this little luncheonette services big appetites. Along with the well as a neighborhood eatery. And the wide range of bud- SoBe address. Instead Bhumichitr joined forces with Day tion of Thai and Japanese cooked dishes, there are a few usual grilled churrascos, there’s bandeja paisa, Colombia’s get-friendly, homemade pastas, made daily, remains the Longsomboon (an old Thai school pal who’d moved to surprises, such as a unique lobster maki that’s admittedly sampler platter of grilled steak, sausage, chicharron, fried main draw for its large and loyal clientele. Choices range Miami) at this unpretentious, authentic (no sushi) neigh- huge in price ($25.95), but also in size: six ounces of crisp- egg, avocado, plantains, rice, and beans. Don’t miss margin- from homey, meaty lasagna to luxuriant crab ravioli with borhood place. Some standout dishes here are featured fried lobster chunks, plus asparagus, avocado, lettuce, ally daintier dishes like sopa de costilla, if this rich shortrib creamy lobster sauce, with occasional forays into creative in the chef’s latest tome, but with Tamarind’s very afford- tobiko (flying fish), masago (smelt) roes, and special sauc- bowl is among the daily homemade soups. Arepas include exotica such as seaweed spaghettini, with sea scallops, able prices, you might as well let the man’s impeccably es. Thai dishes come with a choice of more than a dozen our favorite corn cake: the hefty Aura, stuffed with chorizo, shitakes, and fresh tomatoes. $$-$$$ trained kitchen staff do the work for you. $$-$$$ sauces, ranging from traditional red or green curries to the chicharron, carne desmechada (shredded flank steak), plan- inventive, such as an unconventional honey sauce. $$$ tains, rice, beans, and cheese. $-$$ Shuckers Bar & Grill 1819 79th St. Causeway, 305-866-1570 MIAMI SHORES UVA 69 The Crab House “Cheap eats and a million-dollar view” is the sound bite 6900 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-9022 1551 79th St. Causeway, 305-868-7085 manager Philip Conklin uses to describe this outdoor beach Iron Sushi Owned and operated by brothers Michael and Sinuhé Established in 1975, this Miami fish house was acquired bar, hidden in back of a bayfront motel. The joint dates from 9432 NE 2nd Ave., 305-754-0311 Vega, this casual outdoor/indoor Euro-café and lounge has by Landry’s in 1996 and is now part of a chain. But South Beach’s late 1980s revival, but the kick-off-your-shoes With three Biscayne Corridor outlets (plus several branch- helped to transform the Boulevard into a hip place to hang the classic décor (knotty pine walls, tile floors, booths, vibe couldn’t be farther from SoBe glitz. The food ranges es elsewhere in town), this mostly take-out mini chain is out. Lunch includes a variety of salads and elegant sand- outdoor waterfront deck) still evokes the good old days. from classic bar favorites (char-grilled wings, conch fritters, fast becoming the Sushi Joint That Ate Miami. And why do wiches like La Minuta (beer-battered mahi-mahi with cilan- Though the all-you-can-eat seafood/salad buffet ($20 raw or steamed shellfish) to full dinners featuring steak, Miamians eat here? Not ambiance. There isn’t any. But tro aioli and caramelized onions on housemade foccacia). lunch, $30 dinner) is a signature, freshness fanatics homemade pasta, or fresh, not frozen, fish. $-$$ when friends from the Pacific Northwest, where foodies Dinner features a range of small plates (poached figs with will be happiest sticking to à la carte favorites like the know their fish, tout the seafood’s freshness, we listen. Gorgonzola cheese and honey balsamic drizzle) and full All-American fisherman’s platters, or global specials like Sushi Siam There are some surprisingly imaginative makis, like the entrées like sake-marinated salmon with boniato mash and Szechuan shrimp, that change seasonally. $$$-$$$$ 1524 NE 79th St. Causeway, 305-864-7638 Ponzu butter sauce, and crispy spinach. $$-$$$ (See Miami / Upper Eastside listing) Continued on page 71

70 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings Colombian-cuisine novices, a bandeja paisa (sampler includ- barbecue chunks); and sweet potato or chipotle-spiced Casa Mia Trattoria Continued from page 70 ing rice, beans, carne asada, chicharron, eggs, sautéed fries. The cost is comparatively high, but such is the price 1950 NE 123rd St., 305-899-2770 sweet plantains, and an arepa corn cake) is available every of fame. $$-$$$ Tucked away, off to the side on the approach to the day, as are antojitos – “little whims,” smaller snacks like Broad Causeway and the beaches, this charming indoor/ Maharaja, featuring fried shrimp and drizzles of curry chorizo con arepa (a corn cake with Colombian sausage). Burritos Grill Café outdoor trattoria seems to attract mostly neighborhood Juneo. And where else will you find a stacked sushi (five And for noncarnivores there are several hefty seafood plat- 11717 Biscayne Blvd., 305-891-1041 regulars. But even newcomers feel like regulars after assorted makis) birthday cake? $-$$ ters, made to order. $$ Originally a friendly little 125th Street hole-in-the-wall that a few minutes, thanks to the staff’s Italian ebullience. garnered raves for its limited menu of terrifically tasty Menu offerings are mostly classic comfort foods with Côte Gourmet Bagels & Co. treats, Mario and Karina Manzanero’s café is now in more some contemporary items as well. Housemade pastas are 9999 NE 2nd Ave., #112, 305-754-9012 11064 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-2435 sizable and atmospheric quarters. But the friendly, family- good enough that low-carb dieters should take a break, If only every Miami neighborhood could have a neighbor- While this place is often referred to as Guns & Bagels, run (and kid-friendly) ambiance remains, as do the authen- especially for the tender gnocchi with pesto or better yet, hood restaurant like this low-priced little French jewel. The one can’t actually buy a gun here. The nickname refers tic Yucatan-style specialties. Standouts include poc-chuc, delicate fagottini — “beggar’s purses” stuffed with pears menu is mostly simple stuff: breakfast croissants, crêpe, to its location next to a firearms shop. But there’s a lot of a marinated pork loin; tacos al pastor, stuffed with subtly and cheese. $$ soups, sandwiches, salads, sweets, and a few more sub- other stuff aside from bagels here, including a full range smoky steak, onion, cilantro, and pineapple; sinful deep- stantial specials like a Tunisian-style brik (buttery phyllo of sandwiches and wraps. Breakfast time is busy time, fried tacos dorados; and signature burritos, including the Chéen-huyae pastry stuffed with tuna, onions, potatoes, and tomatoes) with banana-walnut pancakes especially popular. But Junea, filled with juicy cochinita pibil, refried beans, and 15400 Biscayne Blvd., 305-956-2808 with a mesclun side salad. But everything is homemade, what’s most important is that this is one of the area’s few pickled onions. $$ Diners can get some Tex-Mex dishes here, if they must. including all breads, and prepared with impeccable ingre- sources of the real, New York-style water bagel: crunchy But the specialty is Junean-rooted Yucatan cuisine. So why dients, classic French technique, and meticulous atten- outside, challengingly chewy inside. $ Canton Café blow bucks on burritos when one can sample Caribbean tion to detail, down to the stylish plaid ribbons that hold 12749 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-2882 Mexico’s most typical dish: cochinita pibil? Chéen’s authen- together the café’s baguette sandwiches. $-$$ Bocca Ristorante Italiano Easily overlooked, this strip-mall spot serves mostly tically succulent version of the pickle-onion-topped marinat- 1699 NE 123rd St., 305-891-4899 Cantonese-based dishes. However, there are also about ed pork dish is earthily aromatic from achiote, tangy from Village Café One word: Spaghetti chitarra alla carbonara. Okay, four two dozen spicier, Szechuan-style standards like kung po bitter oranges, and meltingly tender from slow cooking in 9540 NE 2nd Ave., 305-759-2211 words. But this one dish alone (housemade pasta whose shrimp, ma po tofu, and General Tso’s chicken. And there a banana leaf wrap. To accompany, try a lime/soy/chili- After closing for several months in early 2009, this square-cut, irregular texture perfectly traps maximum are a few imaginative new items, like the intriguingly spiced michelada, also authentically Mexican, and possibly café, spruced up to look like a bistro rather than a lun- amounts of a luscious pancetta/egg yolk/cream sauce) christened “Shrimp Lost in the Forest,” Singapore curried the best thing that ever happened to dark beer. $$-$$$ cheonette (but with the same bargain prices), has been is reason enough to return many times to this friendly rice noodles, crispy shrimp with honey-glazed walnuts, reopened. The kitchen has also been rejuvenated, with little trattoria. Owing to a low-visibility location, Bocca and Mongolian beef (with raw chilis and fresh Oriental Chef Creole head honcho Adam Holm (Whitticar’s original sous chef) is one of those “best kept secret” spots. But an $18.95 basil). Delivery is available for both lunch and dinner. $$ 13105 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-893-4246 serving up new, globally influenced dishes like mint/ three-course prix fixe menu should convince even the (See Miami listing) pistachio-crusted lamb or tuna tartare with sriracha aioli, jaded that this easy-to-miss place is a must-not-miss. $$ Captain Jim’s Seafood plus reviving old favorites like pork tenderloin with ginger- 12950 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-892-2812 D.J.’s Diner caramel sauce. $$-$$$ Bulldog Barbecue This market/restaurant was garnering critical acclaim even 12210 Biscayne Blvd., 305-893-5250 15400 Biscayne Blvd., 305-940-9655 when eat-in dining was confined to a few Formica tables in Located in a Best Western motel, this place, run by a The BBQ master at this small, rustic room is pugnacious front of the fish counter, owing to the freshness of its sea- Chinese-American family, serves mostly basic American NORTH MIAMI Top Chef contender Howie Kleinberg, whose indoor electric food, much of it from Capt. Jim Hanson’s own fishing boats, diner fare – burgers, sandwiches, about a dozen din- smoker turns out mild-tasting ’cue that ranges from the which supply many top restaurants. Now there’s a casual ner entrées, fresh-baked apple pie, and, oddly, a whole Los Antojos expected pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and chicken to hot- but pleasantly nautical side dining room with booths. section of Caesar salad variations. But it’s also a secret 11099 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-1411 smoked salmon and veggie plates. There are also creative Whether it’s garlicky scampi, smoked-fish dip, grilled yellow- source for Chinese food, mostly chow mien/chop If it’s Sunday, it must be sancocho de gallina, Colombia’s comfort food starters like BBQ chicken flatbread, salads, tail or hog or mutton snapper, perfectly tenderized cracked national dish. If it’s Saturday, it must be ajiaco. Both and sweets. Sides include refreshing slaw; beans stud- conch or conch fritters, everything is deftly prepared and Continued on page 72 are thick chicken soups, full meals in a bowl. For ded with “burnt ends” (the most intensely flavored outer bargain-priced. $$

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 71 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings on the menu, not the plate, and fancier creations like Sara’s simple salads, and a few new protein adds – grilled Continued from page 71 pork filet in tangy tamarind sauce seem universal crowd- 2214 NE 123rd St., 305-891-3312 chicken breast, fried fish, or a steak. $-$$ pleasers. $$$ While this mainly vegetarian kosher place is best known for its pizza (New York-style medium crust or thick-crusted Sicilian, Wong’s Chinese Restaurant suey-type dishes, but also a few dishes such as eggplant Mama Jennie’s topped with veggies and/or “meat buster” imitation meats), 12420 Biscayne Blvd., 305-891-4313 with garlic sauce and ma po tofu that are a step up in 11720 NE 2nd Ave., 305-757-3627 it’s also offers a full range of breakfast/lunch/dinner vegetar- The menu reads like a textbook on how to please everyone, authenticity. $-$$ For more than 35 years this beloved red-sauce joint has ian cuisine of all nations, with many dairy and seafood items with food ranging from traditional Chinese to Chinese- been drawing students and other starvation-budget din- too. Admittedly the cutesie names of many items – baygels, American to just plain American. Appetizers include honey Here Comes the Sun ers with prodigious portions of lasagna, spaghetti and bergerrbite, Cezarrrr salad, hammm, meat-a-ball, schmopperrr garlic chicken wings or Buffalo wings. A crab-claw starter 2188 NE 123rd St, 305-893-5711 meatballs (the latter savory yet light-textured), veal marsala – June cause queasiness. But the schmopperrr itself is one comes with choice of pork fried rice or French fries. At this friendly natural foods establishment, one of topped with a mountain of mushrooms, and other Italian- helluva high-octane veggie burger. $-$$ Seafood lovers can get shrimp chop suey, or salty pep- Miami’s first, there’s a full stock of vitamins and nutritional American belly-busters. All pasta or meat entrées come per shrimp (authentically shell-on). And New Yorkers will supplements. But the place’s hearty soups, large variety with oil-drenched garlic rolls and either soup (hearty min- Steve’s Pizza find a number of dishes that are mainstays of Manhattan of entrées (including fresh fish and chicken as well as estrone) or a salad (mixed greens, tomatoes, cukes, brined 12101 Biscayne Blvd., 305-891-0202 Szechuan menus but not common in Miami: cold sesame vegetarian selections), lighter bites like miso burgers with olives, and pickled peppers) that’s a dinner in itself. Rustic At the end of a debauched night of excess, some paper-thin noodles, Hunan chicken, twice-cooked pork. $$ secret “sun sauce” (which would probably make old sneak- roadhouse ambiance, notably the red leatherette booths, designer pizza with wisps of smoked salmon (or similar fluff) ers taste good), and daily specials are a tastier way to get add to Mama’s charm. $-$$ doesn’t do the trick. Open till 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., Steve’s has, Woody’s Famous Steak Sandwich healthy. An under-ten-buck early-bird dinner is popular with since 1974, been serving the kind of comforting, retro pizzas 13105 Biscayne Blvd., 305-891-1451 the former long-hair, now blue-hair, crowd. Frozen yogurt, Mario the Baker people crave at that hour. As in Brooklyn, tomato sauce is The griddle has been fired up since 1954 at this indie fresh juices, and smoothies complete the menu. $-$$ 13695 W. Dixie Highway, 305-891-7641 sweet, with strong oregano flavor. Mozzarella is applied with fast-food joint, and new owners have done little to change At this North Miami institution (opened in 1969) food is abandon. Toppings are stuff that give strength: pepperoni, the time-tested formula except to stretch operating hours Le Griot de Madame John Italian-American, not Italian-Italian: spaghetti and meat- sausage, meatballs, onions, and peppers. $ into the night and expand its classic menu to include a few 975 NE 125th St., 305-892-9333 balls, lasagna, eggplant parmigiana, and hot or cold subs. health-conscious touches like Caesar salad, plus a note When Madame moved her base of operations from her Little No imported buffala, arugula, or other chichi stuff on the Tokyo Bowl proclaiming their oils are free of trans fats. Otherwise the Haiti home to a real restaurant (though a very informal one, New York-style medium-thin-crusted pizzas; the top top- 12295 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-9400 famous steak sandwich is still a traditional Philly. Drippin’ and still mostly take-out), she began offering numerous tra- ping here is the savory housemade sausage. And no one This fast-food drive-thru (unexpectedly serene inside) is good burgers, too. And unlike MacChain addicts, patrons ditional Haitian dishes, including jerked beef or goat tassot leaves without garlic rolls, awash in warm parsley oil and named for its feature item, big budget-priced bowls of rice or here can order a cold beer with the good grease. $-$$ and an impressive poisson gros sel (a whole fish rubbed with smashed garlic. New branches are now open in Miami’s noodles topped with cooked Japanese-style items like teriyaki salt before poaching with various veggies and spices). But Midtown neighborhood and in North Bay Village. $ fish (fresh fish sautéed with vegetables), curried chicken and the dish that still packs the place is the griot: marinated pork veggies, spicy shrimp, or gyoza dumplings in tangy sauce. NORTH MIAMI BEACH chunks simmered and then fried till they’re moistly tender Petit Rouge There’s also an all-you-can-eat deal – sushi (individual nigiri or inside, crisp and intensely flavored outside. $ 12409 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-7676 maki rolls) plus tempura, teriyaki, and other cooked items for Bamboo Garden From the mid-1990s (with Neal’s Restaurant and later with $14; three bucks more for sashimi instead of sushi. $-$$ 1232 NE 163rd St., 305-945-1722 Little Havana Il Migliore), local chef Neal Cooper’s neighborhood-oriented Big enough for a banquet (up to 300 guests), this vet- 12727 Biscayne Blvd., 305-899-9069 Italian eateries have been crowd-pleasers. While this cute Venezia Pizza and Café eran is many diners’ favorite on the 163rd/167th Street In addition to white-tablecoth ambiance, this place fea- 32-seat charmer is French, it’s no exception, avoiding pre- 13452 Biscayne Blvd., 305-940-1808 “Chinatown” strip because of its superior décor. But the tures live Latin entertainment and dancing, making it tense and winning fans with both classic and nouvelle bis- No frozen pizza crusts or watery mozzarella here. No menu also offers well-prepared, authentic dishes like a good choice when diners want a night out, not just a tro fare: frisée salad with lardons, poached egg, and bacon imported designer ingredients either. The pies are New peppery black bean clams, sautéed mustard greens, meal. It’s also a good choice for diners who don’t speak vinaigrette; truite Grenobloise (trout with lemon/caper York-style, but the dough is made fresh daily, and the and steamed whole fish with ginger and scallions, plus Spanish, but don’t worry about authenticity. Classic Cuban sauce); consommé with black truffles and foie gras, cov- cheese is Grande (from Wisconsin, considered America’s home-style dishes like mojo-marinated lechon asado, ered by a buttery puff pastry dome; perfect pommes frites, finest pizza topper). Also on the menu are Italian- Continued on page 73 topped with onions, and juicy ropa vieja are translated and equally perfect apple or lemon tarts for dessert. $$$ American pastas, a large selection of hot an cold subs,

72 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings almond duck (majorly breaded boneless chunks, with El Gran Inka Hiro Japanese Restaurant Continued from page 72 comfortingly thick gravy). $-$$ 3155 NE 163rd St. 3007 NE 163rd St 305-940-4910 305-948-3687 Chipotle Mexican Grill Though diners at this upscale Peruvian eatery will find One of Miami’s first sushi restaurants, Hiro retains an Chinese-American egg foo young. Default spicing is mild 14776 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-2779 ceviches, a hefty fried-seafood jalea, and Peru’s other amusing retro-glam feel, an extensive menu of both sushi even in Szechuan dishes marked with red-chili icons, but Proving that national fast-food chains don’t have to be expected traditional specialties, all presented far more and cooked Japanese food, and late hours that make it don’t worry; realizing some like it hot, the chefs will cus- bad for either diners or the environment, Chipotle serves elegantly than most in town, the contemporary Peruvian a perennially popular after-hours snack stop. The sushi tomize spiciness to heroic heat levels upon request. $$ what the company calls “food with integrity.” The fare fusion creations are unique. Especially recommended are menu has few surprises, but quality is reliable. Most is simple, basically tacos and big burritos: soft flour two dishes adapted from recipes by Peru’s influential nik- exceptional are the nicely priced yakitori, skewers of suc- Blue Marlin Fish House or crisp corn to rtillas stuffed with chipotle-marinated kei (Japanese/Creole) chef Rosita Yimura: an exquisite, culently soy-glazed and grilled meat, fish, and vegetables; 2500 NE 163rd St., 305-957-8822 steak or chicken chunks, bolder shredded beef bar- delicately sauced tiradito de corvina, and for those with the unusually large variety available of the last makes this Located inside Oleta River State Park, this casual outdoor bacoa, or herb-scented pork carnitas. But these bites no fear of cholesterol, pulpo de oliva (octopus topped with place a good choice for vegetarians. $$ eatery is a rare surprise for nature lovers. The featured contain no evil ingredients (transfats, artificial color/ rich olive sauce). $$$-$$$$ item is still the house-smoked fish this historic venue flavor, antibiotics, growth hormones). And the food, while Hiro’s Sushi Express began producing in 1938, available in three varieties: not the authentic Mex street stuff dreams are made of, G-Coffee 17048 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-949-0776 salmon, mahi mahi, and the signature blue marlin. But the is darned tasty, too. $ 3507 NE 163rd St. Tiny, true, but there’s more than just sushi at this mostly smokehouse now also turns out ribs and delectable bris- 305-956-5556 take-out spin-off of the pioneering Hiro. Makis are the ket. Other new additions include weekend fish fries. Entry Christine’s Roti Shop When a cup of regular American joe is as complex and mainstay (standard stuff like California rolls, more is directly from 163rd Street, not through the main park 16721 NE 6th Ave., 305-770-0434 boldly flavored as a gourmet coffeehouse’s priciest brews complex creations like multi-veg futomaki, and a few entrance. No admission fee. $ Wraps are for wimps. At this small shop run by Christine -- but cheaper -- the creator deserves support, especially unexpected treats like a spicy Crunch & Caliente maki), Gouvela, originally from British Guyana, the wrapper is when the coffee is organic and the company supports available à la carte or in value-priced individual and party Café Boogalu a far more substantial and tasty roti, a Caribbean mega- fair trade and sustainable production. To accompany combo platters. But there are also bento boxes featuring 14480 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-1900 crepe made from chickpea flour. Most popular filling for the admirable coffees and teas, G serves paninis plus tempura, yakitori skewers, teriyaki, stir-fried veggies, and This fast-casual Brazilian eatery is the first U.S. branch of a the flatbread is probably jerk chicken, bone-in pieces in sweets ranging from guava-stuffed croissants to gelato. udon noodles. Another branch is now open in Miami’s chain from Recife, where, legend has it, the food is unusu- a spiced stew of potatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions, and Service is speedy, but a relaxed ambiance, comfortable Upper Eastside. $ ally tasty owing to the magical influence of a sacred African more chickpeas. But there are about a dozen other curries contemporary décor, and free WiFi all encourage luxuriant rhinoceros named Boogalu, who escaped from a private from which to choose. Take-out packages of plain roti are lingering. $ Hiro’s Yakko-San zoo into the region’s jungles some 150 years ago. Judge for also available; they transform myriad leftovers into tasty, 17040 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-947-0064 yourself by sampling our more modern pick, the Boogalu portable lunches. $ Hanna’s Gourmet Diner After sushi chefs close up their own restaurants for the salad (sesame-topped shrimp, mixed greens, sun-dried 13951 Biscayne Blvd. night, many come here for a rare taste of Japanese tomato, and mozzarella, with an unusual sweet peach dress- Flamma Brazilian Steakhouse 305-947-2255 home cooking, served in grazing portions. Try glistening- ing). For heavier eaters there are rhino-size steak, chicken, 3913 NE 163rd St., (Intracoastal Mall) When Sia and Nicole Hemmati bought the Gourmet Diner fresh strips of raw tuna can be had in maguro nuta seafood, and pasta entrées for mouse-size prices. $$ 305-957-9900 from retiring original owner Jean-Pierre Lejeune in the late – mixed with scallions and dressed with habit-forming The rodizio formula is familiar: Pay one price ($39.90 for 1990s, they added “Hanna’s” to the name, but changed honey-miso mustard sauce. Other favorites include China Restaurant dinner, $29.90 at Sunday brunch), then eat till you drop little else about this retro-looking French/American diner, goma ae (wilted spinach, chilled and dressed in sesame 178 NE 167th St., 305-947-6549 from a groaning salad/appetizer bar and a massive selec- a north Miami-Dade institution since 1983. Customers sauce), garlic stem and beef (mild young shoots flash- When you have a yen for the Americanized Chinese fusion tion of beef, pork, lamb, poultry, sausage, and fish (16 vari- can get a cheeseburger or garlicky escargots, meatloaf fried with tender steak bits), or perhaps just-caught grou- dishes you grew up with, all the purist regional Chinese eties at dinner; 5 at brunch) carved tableside by costumed in tomato sauce or boeuf bourguignon in red wine sauce, per with hot/sweet/tangy chili sauce. Open till around cuisine in the world won’t scratch the itch. So the menu waiters. What spectacularly differentiates Flamma: its set- iceberg lettuce and tomatoes, or a mushroom and squid 3:00 a.m. $$ here, containing every authentically inauthentic Chinese- ting on the Intracoastal Waterway. But also spectacular is salad with garlic dressing. For oysters Rockefeller/tuna- American classic you could name, is just the ticket when a Monday-Thursday two-for-one dinner deal with a coupon melt couples from Venus and Mars, it remains the ideal Continued on page 74 nostalgia strikes – from simple egg rolls to pressed available at Flamma. Unbelievable but true. $$$$ dinner date destination. $$-$$$

A Cozy Neighborhood Trattoria where friends and family dine!

ROLLBACK PRICES! CHOICECHOICE OFOF STARTER: Pasta Faglioli Tomato Bread Soup $21.95 Baby Mixed Greens Caesar Salad per person* CHOICECHOICE OF ENTREE:ENTREE: Free Glass of House Wine Chicken Marsala with Three-Course Meal Chicken Parmesan Tilapia Picatta 2576 NE Miami Gardens Dr. Grilled Salmon Aventura FL 33180 10 oz. Chopped Sirloin Steak For Reservations Call: Sauteed Calves Liver (305)792-2902 Rigatoni Alla Norma Penne Amatriciana Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30 am-3pm Lasagna Bolognese Dinner Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm Ravioli Di Ricotta E Spinaci www.trattoriailmigliore.com Now Available for Private CHOICECHOICE OF DESSERT:DESSERT: Parties (40-75 people) Key Lime Pie Chocolate Mousse Mini Canolis Rice Pudding *Dinner served 5-6 p.m. Ricotta Cheese Cake Biscotti NO SHARING New York Cheesecake Zagat Rated Sun-Sentinel Best Dining Coffee or Tea

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 73 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings by the dining room entrance. There’s also a better-than- by drizzles of hot olive and sesame oil). The specials prepared foods; part enoteca (wine bar, featuring snacks Continued from page 73 average selection of seasonal Chinese veggies. The menu menu includes some Thai-inspired creations, too, such as like addictive Portobello fritti with truffle aioli, especially is extensive, but the best ordering strategy, since the veal massaman curry, Chilean sea bass curry, and sizzling enjoyable on the waterfront deck); part ristorante (pastas place is usually packed with Asians, is to see what looks filet mignon with basil sauce. $$$-$$$$ and other Big Food); part pizzeria. What’s important: All Heelsha good on nearby tables, and point. $$ components feel and taste authentically Italian. Just don’t 1550 NE 164th St., 305-919-8393 Panya Thai miss the coal-oven pizza. Superior toppings (including If unusual Bangladeshi dishes like fiery pumpkin patey Lime Fresh Mexican Grill 520 NE 167th St., 305-945-8566 unusually zesty tomato sauce) plus an astonishingly light (cooked with onion, green pepper, and pickled mango) 14831 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-8800 Unlike authentic Chinese cuisine, there’s no shortage yet chewy crust make Racks’ pies a revelation. $$ or Heelsha curry (succulently spiced hilsa, Bangladesh’s (See Midtown / Wynwood / Design District listing) of genuine Thai food in and around Miami. But Panya’s sweet-fleshed national fish) seem familiar, it’s because chef/owner, a Bangkok native, offers numerous regional Roasters & Toasters chef/owner Bithi Begum and her husband Tipu Raman Laurenzo’s Market Café and/or rare dishes not found elsewhere. Plus he doesn’t 18515 NE 18th Ave., 305-830-3354 once served such fare at the critically acclaimed Renaisa. 16385 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-945-6381 automatically curtail the heat or sweetness levels to Attention ex-New Yorkers: Is your idea of food porn one of Their menu’s mix-and-match option allows diners to pair It’s just a small area between the wines and the fridge please Americans. Among the most intriguing: moo khem the Carnegie Deli’s mile-high pastrami sandwiches? Well, their choice of meat, poultry, fish, or vegetable with more counters – no potted palms, and next-to-no service in this phad wan (chewy deep-fried seasoned pork strips with Roasters will dwarf them. Consider the “Carnegie-style” than a dozen regional sauces, from familiar Indian styles cafeteria-style space. But when negotiating this international fiery tamarind dip, accompanied by crisp green papaya monster containing, according to the menu, a full pound to exotica like satkara, flavored with a Bangladeshi citrus gourmet market’s packed shelves and crowds has depleted salad); broad rice noodles stir-fried with eye-opening of succulent meat (really 1.4 pounds; we weighed it), for reminiscent of sour orange. $$-$$$ your energies, it’s a handy place to refuel with eggplant chili/garlic sauce and fresh Thai basil; and chili-topped a mere 15 bucks. All the other Jewish deli classics are parmesan and similar Italian-American classics, housemade Diamond Duck in tangy tamarind sauce. $$-$$$ here too, including perfectly sour pickles, silky hand-sliced Iron Sushi from old family recipes. Just a few spoonfuls of Wednesday’s nova or lox, truly red-rare roast beef, and the cutest two- 16350 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-945-2244 hearty pasta fagiole, one of the daily soup specials, could Paquito’s bite mini-potato pancakes ever — eight per order, served (See Miami Shores listing)? keep a person shopping for hours. And now that pizza mas- 16265 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-5027 with sour cream and applesauce. $$ ter Carlo is manning the wood-fired oven, you can sample From the outside, this strip-mall Mexican eatery couldn’t Jerusalem Market and Deli the thinnest, crispiest pies outside Napoli. $-$$ be easier to overlook. Inside, however, its festivity is Salsa Fiesta 16275 Biscayne Blvd., 305-948-9080 impossible to resist. Every inch of wall space seems to be 2929 Biscayne Blvd., 305-400-8245 Specialties like shawarma, spinach pies, kebabs, hum- Little Saigon covered with South of the Border knickknacks. And if the The first stateside offshoot of a popular Venezuelan mini mus, and kibbeh (a savory mix of ground lamb and bul- 16752 N. Miami Ave., 305-653-3377 kitschy décor alone doesn’t cheer you, the quickly arriving chain, this “urban Mexican grill” serves health-conscious, gur) are native to many Middle East countries, but when a This is Miami’s oldest traditional Vietnamese restaurant, basket of fresh (not packaged) taco chips, or the mariachi made-fresh-daily fare similar in concept to some fast- Lebanese chef/owner, like this eatery’s Sam Elzoor, is at but it’s still packed most weekend nights. So even the band, or the knockout margaritas will. Food ranges from casual competitors. But there are indeed differences the helm, you can expect extraordinary refinement. There place’s biggest negative – its hole-in-the-wall atmosphere, Tex-Mex burritos and a party-size fajita platter to authentic here, notably pan-Latin options: black beans as well as are elaborate daily specials here, like lemon chicken or not encouraging of lingering visits – becomes a plus since Mexican moles and harder-to-find traditional preparations red; thin, delightfully crunchy tostones (available as a stuffed cabbage with a variety of sides, but even a com- it ensures fast turnover. Chef/owner Lily Tao is typically in like albóndigas – spicy, ultra-savory meatballs. $$-$$$ side or as the base for a uniquely tasty take on normal mon falafel sandwich is special when the pita is also the kitchen, crafting green papaya salad, flavorful beef noo- nachos). Other pluses include weekday happy hours with stuffed with housemade cabbage and onion salads, plus dle pho (served with greens, herbs, and condiments that Pizza Fusion two-for-one beers -- and free parking. $-$$ unusually rich and tart tahina. $-$$ make it not just a soup but a whole ceremony), and many 14815 Biscayne Blvd., 305-405-6700 other Vietnamese classics. The menu is humongous. $-$$ “Saving the earth one pizza at a time” is the motto at this Sang’s Chinese Restaurant Kabobji franchise of the only pizza chain to require third-party 1925 NE 163rd St., 305-947-7076 3055 NE 163rd St., 305-354-8484 Mary Ann Bakery organic restaurant certification at all locations. Their Sang’s has three menus. The pink menu is Americanized This place makes a very good tahini sauce. In fact that 1284 NE 163rd St., 305-945-0333 gluten-free crusts make it mighty friendly to pizza fanatics Chinese food, from chop suey to honey garlic chicken. The alone is reason enough to visit. We prefer ours with this Don’t be unduly alarmed by the American birthday cakes in with food allergies. Starters, salads, desserts, and organic white menu permits the chef to show off his authentic bright, cheery eatery’s delightfully oniony falafel or a veg- the window. At this small Chinese bakery the real finds are the wines/beers are also served. And delivery is available — in Chinese fare: salt and pepper prawns, rich beef/turnip cas- garnished wrap of thin-sliced marinated beef schwarma. Chinatown-style baked buns and other savory pastries, filled hybrid cars, of course. Specials unique to this NMB fran- serole, tender salt-baked chicken, even esoterica like aba- They also do a beautifully spiced, and reassuringly fresh- with roast pork, bean sauce, and curried ground beef. Prices chise include Sunday-Thursday happy hours, a free Kids lone with sea cucumber. The extensive third menu offers tasting, raw kibbi naye (Middle Eastern steak tartare). It’s are under a buck, making them an exotic alternative to fast- Organic Club class on Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 a.m., and dim sum, served until 4:00 p.m. A live tank allows seasonal hard to resist putting together a grazing meal of starters food dollar meals. There’s one table for eat-in snackers. $ varied Monday-Wednesday freebies. $-$$ seafood dishes like lobster with ginger and scallion. and wraps, but there’s also a roster of full entrées (with Recently installed: a Chinese barbecue case, displaying soup or salad plus starch), including tempting vegetarian The Melting Pot PK Oriental Mart savory items like crispy pork with crackling attached. $$$ and seafood meals for noncarnivores. $$ 15700 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-2228 255 NE 167th St., 305-654-9646 For 1950s and 1960s college students, fondue pots were Unlike other Asian markets on this strip between I-95 and Shing Wang Vegetarian, Icee & Tea House Kebab Indian Restaurant standard dorm accessories. These days, however, branches Biscayne Boulevard, PK has a prepared-food counter, 237 NE 167th St., 305-654-4008 514 NE 167th St., 305-940-6309 of this chain are generally the only places to go for this eating serving authentic Chinatown barbecue, with appropriate At this unique Taiwanese eatery, run by a trio of Taipei- Since the 1980s this restaurant, located in an unatmo- experience. Start with a wine-enriched four-cheese fondue; dipping sauces included. Weekends bring the biggest trained female chefs, all seafood, poultry, and meats in the spheric mini strip mall but surprisingly romantic inside proceed to an entrée with meat or seafood, plus choice of selection, including barbecued ribs and pa pei duck budget-priced entrées ($6.95) are mock – imitations made (especially if you grab one of the exotically draped booths) cooking potion (herbed wine, bouillon, or oil); finish with fruits (roasted, then deep-fried till extra crisp and nearly free from wheat gluten, tofu, and vegetables. But don’t mock it has been a popular destination for reasonably priced and cakes dipped in melted chocolate. Fondue etiquette of subcutaneous fat). Available every day are juicy, soy- till you try the quite beefy pepper steak, or smokin’ duck, north Indian fare. Kormas are properly soothing and dictates that diners who drop a skewer in the pot must kiss all marinated roast chickens, roast pork strips, crispy pork, with slices that mimic the charcuterie item down to convinc- vindaloos are satisfactorily searing, but the kitchen will other table companions, so go with those you love. $$$ and whole roast ducks – hanging, beaks and all. But no ing faux fat. Other main dishes feature recognizable veggies adjust seasonings upon request. They aim to please. Food worries; a counterperson will chop your purchase into or noodles. As for the rest of the name: icee is shaved ice, arrives unusually fast for an Indian eatery, too. $$ Oishi Thai bite-size, beakless pieces. $ an over-the-top dessert that’s a sort of a slurpee sundae, 14841 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-4338 with toppings that vary from the familiar (fresh fruits) to King Palace At this stylish Thai/sushi spot, try the menu of specials, Racks Italian Kitchen the weird (grass jelly, sweet corn, kidney beans, rice balls, 330 NE 167th St., 305-949-2339 many of which clearly reflect the young chef’s fanatical 3933 NE 163rd St. (Intracoastal Mall) chocolate pudding). And the bubble tea is a must-not- The specialties here are authentic Chinatown-style barbe- devotion to fresh fish, as well as the time he spent in 305-917-7225 miss. Using housemade syrup, the cold, refreshing boba cue (whole ducks, roast pork strips, and more, displayed the kitchen of Knob: broiled miso-marinated black cod; The complexity of the Racks concept makes a sound- comes in numerous flavors (mango, taro, even actual tea), in a glass case by the door), and fresh seafood dishes, rock shrimp tempura with creamy sauce; even Nobu bite description impossible. It’s part Italian market, with the best made with the live fish swimming in two tanks Matsuhisa’s “new style sashimi” (slightly surface-seared salumi, cheeses, and other artisan products plus take-out Continued on page 75

74 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010 Dining Guide

Restaurant Listings midnight, but since the kitchen is open till closing, Tuna’s will find that the 20th anniversary menus also offer new that it seems to have been here forever. Example: Lox and Continued from page 74 draws a serious late-night dining crowd, too. $$-$$$ excitements like tandoori-spiced rock lobster, along with nova aren’t pallid, prepackaged fish, but custom-sliced what might be the ultimate mac’n’cheese: lobster crab from whole slabs. And bagels are hand-rolled, chewy cham- macaroni in a Fris vodka sauce with mushrooms, scal- pions, not those machine-made puffy poseurs. As compli- all supplemented with signature black tapioca balls that, AVENTURA / HALLANDALE lions, and parmesan. The famous dessert soufflé’s flavor mentary pastry bites suggest, and the massive size of the slurped through large-diameter straws, are a guaranteed changes daily, but it always did. $$$$$ succulent, sufficiently fatty pastrami sandwiches confirm, giggle. $ Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza generous Jewish Mo(m) spirit shines here. $$ 17901 Biscayne Blvd., 305-830-2625 Il Migliore Siam Square Coal is what it’s all about here — a coal-fired oven (like 2576 NE Miami Gardens Dr., 305-792-2902 Peppermill on the Waterway 54 NE 167th St., 305-944-9697 that at Lombardi’s, Patsy’s, John’s, or Grimaldi’s in New This attractive trattoria gets the food right, as well as the 3595 NE 207th St., 305-466-2016 Open until 1:00 a.m. every day except Sunday (when is York) producing the intense 800-degree heat to turn ambiance. As in Italy, dishes rely on impeccable ingredients Charming Alpine décor and elegant yet accessible tra- closes at midnight), this relatively new addition to North out, in mere minutes, a pie with the classic thin, crisp- and straightforward recipes that don’t overcomplicate, ditional Continental comfort foods make this indoor/ Miami Beach’s “Chinatown” strip has become a popu- bottomed, beautifully char-bubbled crust that fans of the cover up, or otherwise muck about with that perfection. outdoor restaurant a perennially popular special-occasion lar late-night gathering spot for chefs from other Asian above legendary pizzerias crave. Expect neither bargain- Fresh fettuccine with white truffle oil and mixed wild mush- place to take the parents. Definitely don’t tell the folks’ restaurants. And why not? The food is fresh, nicely pre- chain prices, a huge selection of toppings, nor much else rooms needs nothing else. Neither does the signature cardiologist about indulging in fine-dining fare from the sented, and reasonably priced. The kitchen staff is willing on the menu. Anthony’s does just a few things, and does Pollo Al Mattone, marinated in herbs and cooked under a precholesterol-obsession era: trout almondine with beurre to customize dishes upon request, and the serving staff is them right. $$ brick. And even low-carb dieters happily go to hell in a hand blanc, salmon with hollandaise and creamed spinach, or reliably fast. Perhaps most important, karaoke equipment basket when faced with a mound of potatoes alla Toscana, for super-splurgers, lobster thermidor. While seafood is is in place when the mood strikes. $-$$ Bagel Cove Restaurant & Deli herb-sprinkled French fries. $$-$$$ a specialty, butter-sautéed breaded schnitzels like the 19003 Biscayne Blvd., chicken Holsteiner (topped with capers, anchovies, and Scorch Grillhouse and Wine Bar 305-935-4029 Fuji Hana an egg) are a treat. $$$-$$$$ 13750 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-5588 One word: flagels. And no, that’s not a typo. Rather these 2775 NE 187th St., Suite #1, 305-932-8080 Though some food folks were initially exasperated when crusty, flattened specimens (poppy seed or sesame seed) A people-pleasing menu of typical Thai and Japanese Pilar yet another Latin-influenced grill replaced one of our area’s are the ultimate bagel/soft pretzel hybrid -- and a special- dishes, plus some appealing contemporary creations (like 20475 Biscayne Blvd., 305-937-2777 few Vietnamese restaurants, it’s hard to bear a grudge at a ty at this bustling Jewish bakery/deli, which, since 1988, the Spicy Crunchy Tuna Roll, an inside-out tuna/avocado/ Chef/owner Scott Fredel previously worked for Norman friendly, casual neighborhood place that offers monster ten- opens at 6:30 a.m. -- typically selling out of flagels in a tempura maki, topped with more tuna and served with a Van Aken and Mark Militello. He has been executive chef ounce char-grilled burgers, with potatoes or salad, for $8.50; couple of hours. Since you’re up early anyway, sample luscious creamy cilantro sauce) has made this eatery a at Rumi, and cooked at NYC’s James Beard House. Armed steaks, plus a side and a sauce or veg topper, for nine bucks elaborately garnished breakfast specials, including unusu- longtime favorite. But vegetarians -- for whom seafood- with those impressive credentials, Fredel and his wife at lunch, $15 to $18.75 (the menu’s top price) at night; and ally flavorful homemade corned beef hash and eggs. For based condiments can make Asian foods a minefield launched Pilar (named for Hemingway’s boat) aiming to three-dollar glasses of decent house wine. $-$$ the rest of the day, multitudes of mavens devour every -- might want to add the place to their “worth a special prove that top restaurants can be affordable. Consider other delectable deli specialty known to humankind. $$ drive” list, thanks to chefs’ winning ways with tofu and all- it proven. Floribbean-style seafood is the specialty: fresh Sushi House around accommodation to veg-only diets. $$-$$$ hearts of palm slaw and Caribbean curry sauce, rock 15911 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-6002 Bella Luna shrimp spring rolls with sweet soy glaze, yellowtail snap- In terms of décor drama, this sushi spot seems to have 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura Mall, 305-792-9330 The Grill on the Alley per with tomato-herb vinaigrette. Forget its strip-mall loca- taken its cue from Philippe Starck: sheer floor-to-ceiling If the menu here looks familiar, it should. It’s nearly identical 19501 Biscayne Blvd. (Aventura Mall), tion. The restaurant itself is elegant. $$-$$$ drapes, for starters. The sushi list, too, is over the top, fea- to that at the Upper Eastside’s Luna Café and, with minor 305-466-7195 turing monster makis like the Cubbie Comfort: spicy tuna, variations, at all the rest of Tom Billante’s eateries (Rosalia, Ensconced in a leather booth, with dark hardwood every- Pizza Roma soft-shell crab, shrimp and eel tempura, plus avocado, jala- Villaggio, Carpaccio), right down to the typeface. But no argu- where and a massive bar dispensing two-fisted drinks, 19090 NE 29th Ave., 305-937-4884 peños, and cilantro, topped with not one but three sauces: ment from here. In a mall – a setting more accustomed to you’d never know you were dining in a shopping mall -- or Despite its name, this homey hidden eatery serves not wasabi, teriyaki, and spicy Juneo. Hawaiian King Crab food court – dishes like carpaccio al salmone (crudo, with por- in the new millennium. This upscale mini chain salutes Rome’s wood-cooked, crunchy-crusted pizzas but New York- contains unprecedented ingredients like tomatoes, green tobellos, capers, parmesan slices, and lemon/tomato dress- America’s great grill restaurants of yesteryear, with pro- style pies with medium-thick crusts pliable enough to fold in peppers, and pineapple. Boutique wines, artisan sakes, ing) and linguine carbonara (in creamy sauce with pancetta digious portions of charbroiled meats and seafood, plus half for neat street eating. Unlike chains, though, this indie is and cocktails are as exotic as the cuisine. $$$-$$$$ and shallots) are a breath of fresh, albeit familiar, air. $$-$$$ classics like creamy chicken pot pie. New retro dishes are accommodating, so if you want your crust thin and crisp, just added quarterly, but our favorite remains Sunday night’s ask. Also featured are Italian-American entrées like baked Sushi Sake Bourbon Steak prime rib special: a $32 hunk of juicy beef that’ll take manicotti (that’s “mani-goat”, for those not from NJ) big 13551 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-4242 19999 W. Country Club Dr. care of Monday’s meals too. $$$$$ enough to share, and sub sandwiches, here called “bullets,” Chic Asian-accented décor, video screens, 99-cent drink (Fairmont Hotel, Turnberry Resort), 786-279-0658 to put you in a Sopranos frame of mind. $$ deals, and late-night hours make this hip hangout not At Bourbon Steak, a venture in the exploding restaurant Mahogany Grille just a sushi bar but sort of a neighborhood bar, too. That empire of chef Michael Mina, a multiple James Beard award 2190 NW 183rd St., 305-626-8100 The Soup Man said, the sushi is impressive, mainly because seafood winner, steakhouse fare is just where the fare starts. There Mahogany Grille has drawn critical raves and an interna- 20475 Biscayne Blvd. #G-8, is delivered daily and all except the shrimp is fresh, not are also Mina’s ingenious signature dishes, like an elegant tional clientele since retired major league outfielder Andre 305-466-9033 frozen (as is customary at most Miami sushi places). Also deconstructed lobster/baby vegetable pot pie, a raw bar, and Dawson and his brother transformed this place in 2007. The real soup man behind this franchise is Al Yeganeh, an notable: All sauces are housemade. Cooked makis like a enough delectable vegetable/seafood starters and sides for Today it’s white tablecloths and, naturally, mahogany. antisocial Manhattan restaurant proprietor made notori- crunch-topped Miami Heat are most popular, but it’s as noncarnivores to assemble a happy meal. But don’t neglect The menu is a sort of trendy yet traditional soul fusion of ous, on a Seinfeld episode, as “the soup Nazi.” On the sashimi that the fish’s freshness truly shines. $$-$$$ the steak — flavorful dry-aged Angus, 100-percent Wagyu food from several African diaspora regions: Carolina Low menu: ten different premium soups each day. The selec- American “Kobe,” swoonworthy grade A5 Japanese Kobe, and Country (buttery cheese grits with shrimp, sausage, and tion is carefully balanced among meat/poultry-based and Tuna’s Raw Bar and Grille butter-poached prime rib, all cooked to perfection. $$$$$ cream gravy), the Caribbean (conch-packed fritters or vegetarian; clear and creamy (like the eatery’s signature 17850 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-932-0630 salad), and the Old South (lightly buttermilk-battered fried shellfish-packed lobster bisque); chilled and hot; familiar The reincarnated Tuna’s has gained new owners, a new Chef Allen’s chicken). The chicken is perhaps Miami’s best. $$-$$$ (chicken noodle) and exotic (mulligatawny). All soups name, a dazzling outdoor bar and dining area, and a newly 19088 NE 29th Ave., 305-935-2900 come with gourmet bread, fruit, and imported chocolate. impressive selection of raw-bar specialties: cold-water oys- After 20 years of success in the same location, many Mo’s Bagels & Deli Also available are salads, sandwiches, and wraps. $-$$ ters from the Northeast, plus Blue Points, Malpecs, Island chefs would coast on their backlog of tried-and-true 2780 NE 187th St., 305-936-8555 Creeks, and more. Traditional house favorites remain, and dishes. And it’s doubtful that kindly Allen Susser would While the term “old school” is used a lot to describe this Sushi Siam the emphasis is still on fresh fish from local waters. Open freak out his many regulars by eliminating from the menu spacious (160-seat) establishment, it actually opened in 19575 Biscayne Blvd., 305-932-8955 daily till 2:00 a.m., the place can get rather festive after the Bahamian lobster and crab cakes. But lobster-lovers 1995. It just so evokes the classic NY delis we left behind (See Miami / Upper Eastside listing)

ORIGINAL BAVARIAN BIER GARTEN OPEN DAILY FROM 5:00PM TO 11:00PM FRIDAY &SATURDAY TO MIDNIGHT

JOINUSFORTHE WORLD CUP GAMES!

TEL: 305-754-8002 www.schnitzelhausmiami.net 1085 N.E. 79th Street / Causeway, Miami, FL 33138

June 2010 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 75 Dining Guide

76 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com June 2010