May 2009

Serving the communities along the Biscayne Corridor, including Arch Creek East, Bay Point, Bayside, Biscayne Park, Belle Meade, Buena Vista, Design District, Downtown, Edgewater, El Portal, Hibiscus Island, Keystone Point, Miami Shores, Morningside, North Bay Island, North Miami, Oakland Grove, Palm Grove, Palm Island, Sans Souci, Shorecrest, Star Island, Wynwood, and Venetian Islands www.BiscayneTimes.com Volume 7, Issue 3

Gravy Train By Erik Bojnansky Nearly 100 City of Miami employees made more than $200,000 last year

iami had only recently shed rooted in the collapse of that very boom. revenues, Miami, with a population of management of its fi re department, where its notorious distinction as the Now the good times are over, and the city 404,048 and a median income just over salaries negotiated by the fi refi ghters’ Mnation’s poorest municipality, faces declining revenues across the board. $26,000 per year, continues to compen- union are generous, and where vacancies thanks to the buoying effects of the real- Yet even with an 8.2 percent un- sate dozens of employees at pay rates estate boom, just in time to get clobbered employment rate for Miami-Dade and far greater than comparable cities. Much Continued on page 14 by the nationwide recession/depression Broward counties, and shrinking tax of the expense is related to the city’s lax

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May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 3 COMMENTARY: FEEDBACK PO Box 370566, Miami, FL 33137 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Member of the FPL’s Tree Assassins: It’s the argument that FPL cares about trees, landlords to incubate their empty shops Florida Press Association All About Profi ts or about how they are pruned. with deeply discounted rents that would One need merely observe the myriad allow very small entrepreneurs to estab- www.BiscayneTimes.com Regarding Jeff Shimonski’s tale of examples of unprofessional, damaging lish a foothold on the avenue for the fi rst “Good Trees in Bad Locations” (April PUBLISHER & EDITOR pruning being practiced by FPL’s minions to year or two. As a small business owner, 2009), I might have preferred a headline understand the signifi cant degree to which I can tell you that my rent is my biggest Jim Mullin like “Bad Utility Lines in Bad Locations.” our tree canopy and our community aesthetic concern. Surely it is better to get $500 a [email protected] Mr. Shimonski advises that “V-pruning are being sacrifi ced for FPL profi ts. month for 500 square feet, for the fi rst INTERNS of trees located directly beneath utility Ted Baker, landscape architect year, than nothing. Brian Horowitz wires is now an accepted practice,” and Miami Jesse Walters [email protected] he notes that the “directional pruning” prac- Miami Shores ticed by FPL “doesn’t look very natural but CONTRIBUTORS is much better for the tree and allows for a Ikea Will Not Save the Victor Barrenchea, Erik Bojnansky, Pamela longer pruning cycle.” These are mislead- Shores Winner of This Month’s Robin Brandt, Terence Cantarella, Bill ing observations which may unfortunately Jen Karetnick’s article on downtown Clever Idea Award: Citara, Wendy Doscher-Smith, Kathy lead the layperson to buy into them. Miami Shores (“Ghost Village,” April In one of Derek McCann’s police Glasgow, Jim W. Harper, Lisa Hartman, Jen Karetnick, Jack King, Derek McCann, Frank The notion that any public utility has 2009) was not only interesting but helpful reports (“Secure All Sticky Substances,” Rollason, Silvia Ros, Jeff Shimonski the inherent right to visually pollute our in terms of understanding why it looks the April 2009) he mentioned a person who communities with unbridled overhead way it does (a ghost town). However, as had his vehicle registration decal stolen. I’d ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES power lines, ugly concrete or tar-stained one who has worked with similar down- like to offer advice to everyone on how to Marco Fernandez wood poles, and disastrous pruning tech- towns hoping to restock themselves with avoid that ever happening. Once you apply [email protected] niques are anathema to sound residential shops, I can tell you that national chains your decal, score it with a sharp knife or planning and the highest standards of will not even look at a place like NE 2nd razor blade. I score mine about six times di- Marc Ruehle community design. Avenue. We’re fooling ourselves if we think agonally. If someone tries to peel it off, he And the idea that the pruning of trees they will locate here. can’t take the whole decal but only a small [email protected] by FPL’s “tree assassins” is “now an National chains (retail and casual fi ne portion of it. I have never lost a registration OFFICE MANAGER accepted practice” could not be further dining) will only locate in malls, big-box since I’ve been doing that. Wilmer Ametin from the truth. Such action may be ac- centers, and corner pod sites. They will not Keep up the good work and thank [email protected] cepted by FPL, by Asplundh Tree Com- change their fl oor plan requirements no you for a paper that is a treat to read. ART DIRECTOR pany (the “pruners”), and by the unin- matter how affl uent a neighborhood may be. Name Withheld by Request formed, but it is highly unlikely that even Our village fathers would be Miami Marcy Mock the most novice gardener would support better off convincing the Village Place Continued on page 6 [email protected] ADVERTISING DESIGN DP Designs TABLE OF CONTENTS [email protected] COVER STORY POLICE REPORTS The Biscayne Times welcomes proposals for Gravy Train ...... 1 Biscayne Crime Beat ...... 32 articles and press releases. Submitted material may be edited for length, clarity, and content. All submitted material becomes the property of COMMENTARY ART & CULTURE The Biscayne Times. Please be sure to include Feedback: Letters ...... 4 MOCA: Ultimately It’s All About People ...... 34 Miami’s King: Jack King ...... 10 your name, address and telephone number in Art Listings ...... 36 all correspondence. Word on the Street ...... 12 Culture Briefs...... 39 All articles, photos, and artwork in the Biscayne Times are copyrighted by Biscayne OUR SPONSORS Media, LLC. Any duplication or reprinting BizBuzz ...... 8 PARK PATROL without authorized written consent from the Advertiser Directory...... 8 Green on Blue ...... 40 publisher is prohibited. The Biscayne Times is published the first week of each month. We are hand delivered NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS COLUMNISTS to all the homes along both sides of Biscayne Jen Karetnick: Rackless in the Village: Kids and the City: Love Is All There Is ...... 42 Boulevard from downtown and the Venetian A Two-Wheeled Odyssey ...... 20 Your Garden: Falling Leaves? Must Be Springtime ...... 43 Islands to Arch Creek. Frank Rollason: Put on a Happy Face ...... 22 Pawsitively Pets: A Primer on Puppies, Part 2 ...... 44 Wendy Doscher-Smith: Dark Skies, Cold Rain, and Death ...... 24 Harper’s Environment: The Ocean’s Most Fearsome Predators ..46 Advertise! 305-756-6200 COMMUNITY NEWS DINING GUIDE Museo Vault: Fort Knox Redefined ...... 26 Restaurant Listings ...... 47 WE NOW ACCEPT Miami Arts Charter: A School Is Born ...... 27 Wine: Red, White, and You ...... 48 CREDIT CARDS Miami Shores: Low Turnout but High Hopes ...... 27

4 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 5 COMMENTARY: FEEDBACK

Letters the city offi cials and the developers, they consumption while heating your pool. I as the primary source of heat, with the Continued from page 4 would take all of our parks and turn them must respectfully object, though, to the existing heater as a backup. into concrete. statement that a bubble pool blanket The bottom line is this: Heating a This Month’s Redundancy Here’s something else: I’ve noticed can heat water as much as ten degrees. swimming pool with fossil-fuels is a Award: Miami’s Brain- not one tree has been planted along Bis- “Solar” bubble pool blankets are great for luxury this country can no longer afford. cayne Boulevard since about December. keeping heat in a pool (most of the heat Dan Sizelove Dead Politicians They stopped somewhere around 62nd loss in a pool comes from evaporation), Aquatherm Industries, Inc. I’d like to compliment your newspa- Street during the holidays. They were but they do not effectively heat the water. Lakewood, New Jersey per on how well you keep the community cutting the openings in the sidewalks and I have to add I was a bit surprised informed on local issues. I never used planting trees and then boom! Nothing! when the article made no mention of No More Cookie-Cutter to read Biscayne Times. I’d pick it up What’s going on? Has the city told solar as a method of heating a pool. Hedges! from the driveway and throw it away. While heat pumps are certainly the next the state that from 62nd Street to 87th Regarding Jeff Shimonski’s article But I made the mistake of opening it up best alternative to solar, an average Street they don’t think trees are necessary? “Fear and the Fig Whitefl y” (March 2009), one time and haven’t stopped reading it 400,000 BTU heat pump still produces Excuse me, but I’ve always hated the way he was right on point. Drive around our since! more than 38 tons of CO2 emissions a the boulevard looks south of Miami Shores lush city and you’ll see countless cookie- It gets me all fi red up when I read year! Heat pumps use electricity, and as and down past 79th Street. This is the sec- cutter fi cus hedges. We are so privileged about our wonderful, brilliant local politi- you may know, most electricity in this tion of the Boulevard that needs a face-lift to live in a tropical paradise where you cians. In my 62 years, I have never seen country comes from the burning of coal. the most. Come on, Miami, get off your can grow countless other plants, which a community with such a dysfunctional Solar, on the other hand, produces dead ass and fi nish the project you started. are much more interesting to the eye and governing class as Miami. They are zero toxic greenhouse gas emissions. We want to see more trees. which celebrate garden diversity. greedy, thoughtless, uncaring, lack any With no operating costs (solar energy It’s about time you brain-dead politicians Cheers for suggesting tough and beauti- common sense, and don’t seem to ever is free and require little maintenance), started listening to the people of Miami. ful varieties such as the colorful crotons, care about the opinions of the residents. pool owners typically see a payback Dennis Tinsman the loyal and everlasting silver buttonwood, Can you sense my disgust? Miami Shores period of two years or less. Most solar I read Erik Bojnansky’s article about heaters available today carry at least and the feisty clusia. The whitefl y will not parks advocate Steve Hagen (“You’ve a ten-year warranty, and systems have feast on those and it will make for more Got Mail...Lots and Lots of It,” March Live Green, Swim Green been known to last more than 20 years. interesting gardens. Thanks for this article. 2009) and would like to say that, per- Jim W. Harper’s article “New Ideas For pool owners already heating their Laura Santamaria sonally, I want to see Bicentennial Park for New Pools” (March 2009) offers sev- pools with a gas, electric, or propane Miami remain as an open green space. Between eral great suggestions to reduce energy heater, solar can be installed to work Continued on page 19

6 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 7 OUR SPONSORS BizBuzz: May 2009 Sales, special events, and more from the people who make Biscayne Times possible By Pamela Robin Brandt Speaking of steals: At noon on Saturday, embedded in them. You’ve gotta see it to p.m. wine tastings at Laurenzo’s Italian BT Contributor May 16, Douglas Elliman Florida will be believe it. So to encourage such viewing, Market (16385 W. Dixie Hwy.; 305-945- conducting a reserved-bid auction to sell an TMG is giving away a free 40-pound bag 6381), the tastings have been switched to f you’re reading this column on May 2, but 8625-square-foot, commercially zoned vacant of beach pebbles to browsers (or buyers, Saturday afternoons from noon to 5:00 are not reading it at the Cinco de MiMo fes- lot in Miami Shores — a rarity in the village. but no purchase necessary) every Satur- p.m. Though tastings remain “100-percent Itival, head on over immediately. And bring Bidding begins at just $10,000, with a ten- day in May, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. complimentary,” says Larry “The Wine your dog pal(s). Why? Because along with the percent buyer’s premium going to the winner. Looking for a Mother’s Day gift that’s Guy” Baker, the format has changed a bit. people-oriented festivities are two doggie social Real estate broker Brian Carter (btcarter@ as special as mom? At new, eco-friendly Themes continue to vary, but fi ve wines are events: the Pink Pooch Parade & Contest, and ellimanfl orida.com; 305-582-2424) says the Imagine Gifts (Shops at Midtown, 3252 now sampled each week at the fi ve-hour the grand opening of Smiling Pets’ new Doggie land “could be developed or possibly used as NE 1st Ave. #108; 305-704-8246), you’ll tastings. Those who particularly like one Bag Café and Pet Boutique, in the vet clinic’s more parking space.” fi nd organic soy candles, hand-painted wine enough to want a full fi ve-ounce glass breezeway. Actually the parade concludes “Everyone talks about it. No one scarves, bath soaps, and locally crafted can buy one for $5. And those buying a at Smiling Pets (under the Coppertone sign, does anything about it.” In Miami that jewelry, plus recycled wrapping paper and case of any wines sampled (mixed or one at 7310 Biscayne Blvd; 305-609-4288), old saw about the weather could easily unusual greeting cards. Tell Gregg or José wine) will get an additional fi ve percent where you and your canine pal can enjoy be applied to live music. But this month Luis you read about Imagine in the BT and off Laurenzo’s standard case discount. Just free “Mutt-inis” and dog treats. Live! Modern School of Music is doing get an extra 15 percent off purchases of $50 think “fi ve” and you can’t miss. A little later this month comes Mother’s something. On May 17, six of the school’s or more, May 4-10. Finally this community newspaper Day, which, according to the National Res- bands will present a “Rockin’ Out” concert Throughout the month, mention the would like to welcome a true community taurant Association, is the most popular day downtown, at the Cisneros Fontanals Art BT at Chantik Imports (7293 Biscayne restaurant, Joey’s Italian Café (2506 of the year for restaurant dining. At the Royal Foundation. The program runs from 5:00- Blvd., 305-759-4578) for extra savings NW 2nd Ave.; 305-438-0488). You Bavarian Schnitzel Haus (1085 NE 79th St.; 6:30 p.m. at 1018 N. Miami Ave. Price is on selected items from the store’s stock doubtless noticed that the restaurant, run 305-754-8002), Alex Richter will be cooking only $5. Cover songs will include selec- of Indonesian furnishings and accesso- by Joey and Thea Goldman, made its up the offi cial Mother’s Day feast on Sunday, tions from Guns N’ Roses, Queen, and ries — lighting, masks, panels, carvings, debut with the BT’s new ad space on the May 10 from noon to 10:00 p.m. In addition Metallica, so don’t forget the black eye ceramics, baskets, furniture, and art. front cover. Many of you already know to brunch specials, the regular menu is avail- shadow. Info: 305-893-0191. April showers bring May fl owers — or that Joey’s is not Italian-American, not able, and seating is in either the cozy indoor What’s a place to do when its prod- at least they will if you plant the free packet Argentine-Italian, not fancy-schmancy dining room or the outdoor biergarten. ucts are almost too unique to describe? of seeds Allstate Insurance Company phony-baloney Italian/Continental. It is At Bagels & Company (11064 Consider Miami Beach Pebbles and (8703 Biscayne Blvd.; 305-754-0002) is an authentic Italian hangout, where the Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-2435), David luxe + natura, two sister companies offering this month to renters who drop chef is from Treviso and the prices are so Cohen is offering not one but three (parented by The Minimalist Group), at by for a quote on renter’s insurance. You low they’re almost unbelievable. “Would specials. Daily in May, anyone buying a the same address (3214 NE 2nd Ave.; may assume you personal possessions you even believe me if I told you that dozen bagels gets to choose one of three 305-438-1775) in Midtown. The former are covered by your landlord’s insurance some customers come in fi ve nights a freebies: a pound of cream cheese, an imports decorative pebbles, and also policy, but that’s not true. Fortunately, week?” laughs Thea. “I’ve had to put up extra dozen bagels, or a coupon for a free manufactures pebble tiles (fl at, on-edge, says Allstate’s Veronica Oliveraleon, for a a blackboard for specials because many dozen anytime in the following 30 days. or impossibly gorgeous custom-designed renter’s policy that protects your all stuff, people have already worked their way On Tuesdays eat-in customers who buy ones). The latter’s specialty is designer “the typical annual premium for $15,000 of through the whole menu.” an entrée and drink get a second entrée items that mix luxury and nature, like contents is under $300 — $25 per month.” (of equal or lesser value) for free. And on acrylic resin LuxeCast panels with In response to overwhelming e-mails Something special coming up at your $5 Fridays, you can steal any hefty deli natural materials (bamboo, mahogany from wine-loving workaholics who were business? Send info to bizbuzz@bis- sandwich for a fi ve-spot. shavings, grasses, much more) artfully missing out on the Friday 4:00-7:00 caynetimes.com. For BT advertisers only.

CLOTHING & JEWELRY Law Offices of Jake Miller Teak Only HOME IMPROVEMENT Lighting Electric of Miami Smiling Pets RESTAURANTS & FOOD Laurenzo’s Italian Market ADVERTISER DIRECTORY 305-758-2020 305-895-8665 305-252-3476 305-754-0844 305-945-6381 Bagels & Co. Dasani Jewels Page 9 Page 44 9 to 5 Redesign Page 38 Page 45 Page 60 ART & CULTURE Shops at Midtown 305-374-7746 305-975-2564 305-892-2435 Family Fun Day Page 28 Law Offices of Steven HEALTH & BEAUTY Page 38 Miami Beach REAL ESTATE Page 57 Metro Organic Bistro Adrienne Arsht Center K. Baird Pebbles NEW 305-753-3371 Bay Oaks Home Douglas Elliman 305-759-1392 www.arshtcenter.org 305-754-8170 All Florida Pool & Spa 3214 NE 2nd Ave. Bengal Indian Cuisine Page 16 EDUCATION 305-573-4337 305-695-6300 Page 53 Page 3 Page 32 305-893-4036 305-438-1775 305-403-1976 Children’s Village Page 20 Page 2 St. Martha’s Church Page 29 Page 21 Page 56 Mike’s at Venetia Design District Art+ Design 305-751-0005 Montessori School & FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES 305-573-8116 Dental Options Jeff Tomlinson Realty Blue Marlin Fish House 305-374-5731 Page 37 Day Care Arco Glass & Windows Re: Design Studio Beau Living 305-892-2960 Group NEW 305-957-8822 Page 51 Page 13 305-891-2726 Architecture & Interiors Trader John’s Records 305-757-1236 305-751-1511 Page 30 305-895-5333 Page 52 I.D. Art Supply Page 38 305-778-1019 Moriano & Books Page 43 Page 5 Hiperfit www.jeffrealtor.com 305-385-5586 Page 35 Buena Vista Bistro 786-953-8003 305-899-7172 305-762-6600 Page 7 Page 35 Live! Music School Casca Doce Barnett Tree Service 305-456-5909 Page 53 Page 41 305-893-0191 Page 17 305-538-2451 Renu at Hand Miami Spaces Imagine Gifts NEW 305-757-6001 305-866-8408 305-495-8712 Page 59 Pizza Fiore Unity on the Bay NEW Page 42 Page 20 Holistic Healing Center Page 41 3252 NE 1st Ave. 411 NE 21st St. Page 18 Page 28 Chef Creole 305-573-0900 305-704-8246 Miami Shores Church 305-919-7877 Dart Services 305-573-9191 Chantik Imports Ruben Matz 305-754-222 Page 54 Page 23 School NEW Page 22 305-758-1697 INSURANCE Page 6 954-559-2804 305-525-8816 Page 55 Red Light NEW 603 NE 96th St. Page 41 Humana Miami Page 24 Allstate Insurance Knight Foundation NEW Page 31 7700 Biscayne Blvd. AUTOMOTIVE 305-759-2548 305-698-3144 305-754-0002 Côte Gourmet www.knightart.org Details at Home Guarantee Floridian 305-754-9012 305-757-7773 Page 12 Europa Car Wash and Café Page 42 Page 44 Page 18 POLITICAL CANDIDATES 305-531-1325 305-758-1811 Page 58 Page 49 305-754-2357 Nails Etc. Miami Shores Miami Arts Charter School Page 21 Page 33 PETS Michael Blynn NEW Presbyterian Church Page 22 305-754-0316 North Miami City Council Dunkin’ Donuts Royal Bavarian Schnitzel 305-763-6257 LetterHeads 305-754-9541 Miami Parking Authority Page 37 Karnak Blinds Adam’s Veterinary Clini 305-891-7635 305-762-6796 Haus Page 11 305-751-4894 Page 43 305-373-6789 OM Power Yoga NEW 305-469-8162 305-757-7309 Page 19 Page 55 305-754-8002 Page 35 Page 45 Shops at Midtown Page 30 FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES 9301 NE 6th Ave. Page 38 Carol Besade-Preger NEW Joey’s Italian Café NEW Page 56 Kids With Heart Plaza Tire & Auto Allied Public Adjusters Planet Lighting (M Power Project Wellness) I Will Clean for You Junior’s Pet Grooming North Miami City Clerk 2506 NW 2nd Ave. River Oyster Bar 305-753-3371 305-573-3878 305-794-1171 305-757-5001 305-753-6003 305-887-2676 305-571-1818 305-606-3636 305-438-0488 305-530-1915 Page 32 Page 46 Page 10 Page 24 Page 45 Page 38 Page 45 Page 19 Page 1 Page 50

8 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 9 COMMENTARY: MIAMI’S KING Reality Check: Miami Is Going Broke No surprise, really, when you consider all the bloated salaries By Jack King working for the city, and the average yeyearsa ago, for example, Commissioner BT Contributor compensation for those employees is RRegalado introduced and the commis- more than $100,000 per year. That’s sision passed a resolution doing away n the cover of this august right, the average annual pay for a cityy wwith the city’s Economic Develop- publication this month you will employee is 100 grand. Obviously the mment Department. The department Ofi nd a story about the compensa- city is a great place to work, so get in hahad been around for years and had tion of City of Miami employees. The line — they’re still hiring. ddoneo little if anything. So it seemed story itself is pretty amazing, but sadly If you take the number of em- llikeik a good idea to get rid of an agency it’s only a small part of the fi nancial ployees (4000) and multiply it by the tthatha had seven employees, including a problems the city will encounter in the average annual compensation, you’ll dirdirectore making $165,000 a year, since coming months and years. In fact the get something close to $400 million iitt hhad no mission statement and no city is already in the throes of a budget in city salaries. That’s pretty astound- bubudgetd other than salaries. shortfall, but you would never know ing when you consider that the total Two years later the department it listening to the city commission, the annual budget for the city is just over rremainsem operational, but still nonfunc- mayor, and the city manager. $500 million. That means roughly ttional.ion I asked Regalado what happened Actually, that’s not quite true as 80 percent of the city’s budget is anandd he told me the city manager (Pete Commissioner Tomas Regalado, who used to cover salaries. I don’t have HeHernandez)r just ignores the will of is running for mayor, has been rail- a MBA, but I cannot believe this is tthehe commission when he wants to. In ing about budget shortfalls for many a sustainable business model — unlesss Since it really doesn’t doesn’t cascase you’ve forgotten, the city manager months now. The trouble is that no one you’re using taxpayers’ money. need any more fi refi ghters, the city works for the mayor. This is the same believes — or wants to believe — this The fi re department is one of the major hasn’t been hiring any. So now the city manager who swore on a stack of is a problem. The city commission, the problems in this salary predicament. The fi refi ghters on staff are being promoted Bibles that no money for the Marlins city management, and many of our city has been reluctant to hire new fi re- to middle management jobs (with no stadium would come from the city’s fellow citizens are in full denial that one to manage) and working general revenue fund, and then came there’s even a problem. Believe me, tons of overtime so the city back a week after the stadium deal was Roughly 80 percent of the city’s budget there is, and it will only get worse. has the appropriate number of done to ask for $9 million from the Miami’s fi nances are so out of whack is used to cover salaries. I don’t have experienced fi refi ghters on site, aforementioned general fund for that it may take a serious restructuring a MBA, but I cannot believe this is a even though they have no fi res the Marlins. to get them back on an even keel. You’ll sustainable business model. to fi ght — thanks in no small I don’t blame these problems and recall that the city has some experience part to lots of archaic rules that issues on the employees. Most of them in this area. In the 1990s, the state had haven’t been changed in years. come to work and do a good job within to step in and impose a little fi nancial For some reason the city the parameters set for them by the unions reality. It took several years to clean up fi ghter trainees because there isn’t really a thinks this is a fi ne way to do business — and the administration. The problem is the mess created by former city manager need for them. There just aren’t that many paying out hundreds of thousands each management and leadership, of which Cesar Odio. fi res anymore. The city’s fi re department year for no work. If city leaders believe Mayor Manny Diaz has zero. Right now Clearly the primary problem is em- has been remarkably successful over the this is a good idea, I wonder what they’ll he’s too busy painting the city green in ployee compensation. The BT’s cover past 20 years in getting fi re-suppression think when these guys retire and start hopes of ensuring his “environmental” story will tell you there are 97 city em- equipment installed in new buildings. That drawing from Miami’s pension plan. Will legacy. And while he’s painting, the ployees who made more than $200,000 accomplishment, along with new, non- that be still more money for no work? city is cratering fi nancially. Is Manny’s last year. If that doesn’t make you stop fl ammable construction materials, means Every now and then, but not often, middle name Nero? and think, consider this little fac- they’ve effectively put themselves out of a the city tries to do something about toid: There are some 4000 employees job fi ghting fi res. its unbridled spending. A couple of Feedback: [email protected]

10 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 ANNOUNCING Miami’s Newest Charter School for the ARTS Opening August, 2009

A Great Education with Free Tuition Middle School-High School, Grades 6-12

Offering an outstanding academic education combined with the finest teachers and courses in the arts.

• College Prep Academic Curriculum • Music (Instrumental/Vocal) • Art/Photography • Dance • Creative Writing/Acting

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Coming to the Design District 3900 Biscayne Boulevard Miami, Florida 33137 305.763.6257 Miamiarts [email protected] charter school

A Miami-Dade County Public Charter School the ARTS in the DESIGN

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 11 C OMMENTARY: WORD ON THE STREET

It’s been almost nine years since the last terrorist attack on American soil. Are you still worried? Compiled by Victor Barrenechea — BT Contributor

John Martin Alicia Kuhnke Michael Morrow Ernest Castillo Amy Palma Whitney Paden Store Owner Boutique Owner Business Owner Locksmith Technician Celebrity Make-up Artist Sales Manager North Miami Miami Shores Edgewater Downtown Miami Shores Brickell I’m not worried at all Yes, I am. Not as worried I’m not worried about It’s been almost ten years I’m worried. Just be- I actually am still concerned because it hasn’t happened as I used to be. The fact re- terrorism. I wasn’t worried already. Five years ago, if cause it’s been nine years about terrorism, maybe yet. When it does happen., mains that terrorism exists, then. I really don’t think you would’ve asked me doesn’t mean it’s any less even more so than before, it’s better to worry about but we have to go on. I’m about it. We can’t live in that question, I would have of a threat. I’m still very because it’s been a long it after it happens. I was not as worried as I was fear. But I’m a little more been a lot more worried. I concerned about it. I think time since we’ve had an afraid after 9/11, but time nine years ago. The threat hopeful. We’re taking a think we don’t hear about we’re still at risk. Probably attack. Almost too much goes by. Time heals all is still there. It will always different approach to for- it much anymore. I don’t even more so now that the time has passed. It makes wounds. I’m not saying that be there. But I think secu- eign affairs, less of a hard- think we’re safer. I think war in Iraq has created me more uncomfortable. I it won’t happen; it probably rity has defi nitely picked line approach. That will it’s basically the same. But more anti-American senti- think we’re due for another will happen. [The terror- up. I feel safer. perhaps make everyone I’m more worried about ment. I think people forget attack. Maybe that’s pes- ists] want you to feel like I feel safer. The way we’re the price of everything as time passes, but we’re simistic, but I don’t feel do, then they sock it to you. destroying the environ- going up and the economy still in danger. safer. I think if you’re not But there are so many other ment is a lot more pressing than I am terrorism. concerned about it, you’re things to worry about. It’s than the threat of terrorism. living in denial. not at the top of my list. Congratulations to the finalists of the 2009 Knight Arts Challenge:

ǧ'0LDPL)UHGHULF6QLW]HUǧ$FWRUVǠ3OD\KRXVH3URGXFWLRQVǧ$OOLDQFHIRU0XVLFDO$UWV7KHDWHUDQG7XWRULQJǧ$P\5RVHQEHUJ ǧ$YDLODEOH6SDFHǧ%DQN$WODQWLF)RXQGDWLRQǧ%(/,$57%HUQLFH6WHLQEDXPǧ%URZDUG&RXQW\)LOP6RFLHW\ǧ&KULVW\*DVWǧ&KRSLQ)RXQGDWLRQ ǧ&LW\RI0LDPLǜ0D\RUǠV2IȊFHRI)LOP &XOWXUDO$IIDLUVǧ&LVQHURV)RQWDQDOV$UW)RXQGDWLRQǧ&223(5ǧ(OL:HEHUPDQǧ)DLUFKLOG7URSLFDO %RWDQLF*DUGHQǧ)ORULGD*UDQG2SHUDǧ)ULHQGVRIWKH%DVV0XVHXPǧ*LUOVǠ&OXEǧ*ROGPDQ3URSHUWLHVǧ*UHDWHU0LDPL&RQYHQWLRQDQG 9LVLWRUǠV%XUHDXǧ+DQQDK.DKQ3RHWU\)RXQGDWLRQǧ-HURPH6RLPDXGǧ.DWKOHHQ+XGVSHWKǧ/RFXVW3URMHFWVǧ0DULR(UQHVWR6DQFKH]7HDWUR $YDQWHǧ0LDPL'DGH&RXQW\'HSDUWPHQWRI&XOWXUDO$IIDLUVǧ0LDPL'DGH3XEOLF6FKRROVǧ0LDPL'DGH3DUNVǧ0LDPL&LW\%DOOHW ǧ0LDPL,QWHUQDWLRQDO)LOP)HVWLYDOǧ0LDPL/LJKWKRXVHIRUWKH%OLQGDQG9LVXDOO\,PSDLUHG,QFǧ7KH1DWXUH&RQVHUYDQF\ ǧ1HZ:RUOG6\PSKRQ\ǧ7KH2O\PSLD7KHDWHUDWWKH*XVPDQ&HQWHUIRUWKH3HUIRUPLQJ$UWVǧ3HUIRUPLQJ$UWV&HQWHU7UXVWǧ3OXP79 ǧ6FXOSWXUH.H\:HVWǧ6ZHDW5HFRUGVǧ81&)8QLWHG1HJUR&ROOHJH)XQGǧ9L]FD\D0XVHXPDQG*DUGHQVǧ:ROIVRQLDQ),8ǧ:3%7 Through the arts, we strive to bring our diverse community together and help transform South Florida. Winners to be announced Fall 2009. Visit www.KnightArts.org for more information.

12 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 ON SATURDAY, + DOUBLE DUTCH YOUR WAY TO LOCUST PROJECTS.

SATURDAY / MAY 09 / 7-10 PM

/ KATE GILMORE / By Any Means New York based artist Kate Gilmore will present “By Any Means,” a performance-based video and a site-specific sculpture in which the physicality of architecture and sculpture is pitted against the female body and will. Located at Locust Projects_155 N.E. 38th Street_Suite 100

/ SIMON BIRCH / Raw & Loved “Raw & Loved” is the debut exhibition by the Hong Kong based painter and video artist, known for his high-energy in-motion portraits. Located at AE District in the Marcy Building_3852 N. Miami Avenue

/ THE ANNUAL COUNTY WIDE STUDENT ART SHOW / This annual juried exhibition is an impressive collection of over 500 artworks from students attending the Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Organized and presented by Miami-Dade County Public Schools Division of Social Sciences & Life Skills, Art Education Program. Located at 4141 N.E. 2nd Avenue_Suite 102

/ HAITIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM / History Since 1804 The Haitian Heritage Museum is proud to present “History Since 1804.” This exhibition shows the richness and beauty of Haitian history through facts, pictures, and artist renditions dating back from that fateful day of December 5, 1492, through the first successful slave revolution of 1804, to the striving Heritage of today. ART + Located at 4141 N.E. 2nd Avenue_Suite 105 C DESIGN NIGHT

2ND SATURDAY + OF EVERY MONTH IN Double Dutch, by Kate Gilmore, 2004. Video still, courtesy of the artist and Smith-Stewart Gallery.

T / 305.573.8116 N.E. 2nd Avenue [ between 39th & 40th Streets ] miamidesigndistrict.net

VALET IS AVAILABLE AT 163 N.E. 39TH STREET ( IN FRONT OF BROSIA RESTAURANT )

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 13 COVER STORY Miami’s Top Salaries COUNT FIRST NAME LAST NAME TITLE DEPARTMENT NAME TOTAL EARNINGS COUNT FIRST NAME LAST NAME TITLE DEPARTMENT NAME TOTAL EARNINGS 1 JON HART CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 308,317.88 50 WARREN BITTNER DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY LAW 224,892.67 2 FERNANDO ACOSTA SERGEANT AT ARMS MAYOR’S OFFICE 295,075.22 51 JORGE BARRETO CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 224,486.80 3 LAURA BILLBERRY DIRECTOR PUBLIC FACILITIES 291,637.81 52 RALPH PARKER CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 224,255.74 4 JOHN TIMONEY CHIEF POLICE 290,532.66 53 RICARDO SANDA CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 223,918.41 5 JULIO MESTAS CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 288,575.59 54 BRUCE OESTREICH CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 223,619.86 6 JORGE VALLADARES CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 280,579.55 55 MICHAEL WINCHESTER CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 222,921.24 7 CHRISTOPHER MUSSER CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 279,551.33 56 EDDY RODRIGUEZ FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 222,589.30 8 PRISCILLA THOMPSON CITY CLERK CITY CLERK 277,172.48 57 RICARDO ROQUE LIEUTENANT POLICE 222,214.45 9 JUAN MESTAS FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 276,364.93 58 THOMAS GABRIEL CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 221,707.94 10 PEDRO HERNANDEZ CITY MANAGER CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE 274,980.88 59 JOSE ECHAGARRUA LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 220,635.08 11 CRAIG RADELMAN CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 274,640.02 60 ALFREDO RODRIGUEZ LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 220,488.36 12 RAUL FERNANDEZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 273,720.12 61 ELOY GARCIA CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 220,274.91 13 MICHAEL SHELTON CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 271,806.69 62 CARLOS GARCIA LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 219,870.02 14 EDGAR ACOSTA CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 270,270.48 63 JUAN MEIZOSO FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 219,467.53 15 THOMAS FLORES FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 267,704.93 64 JOE BURNS CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 218,892.85 16 RICHARD WALTERMAN CAPTAIN POLICE 266,781.99 65 BRENDA HOPPE LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 218,113.05 17 JOHN GONZALEZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 264,856.30 66 DAVID DUENAS JR. CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 217,974.10 18 HUGO RODRIGUEZ FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 261,448.53 67 WILLIAM CHAPMAN LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 217,837.55 19 JULIE BRU CITY ATTORNEY LAW 261,320.67 68 FRANK MAINADE LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 217,186.11 20 WILLIAM BRYSON FIRE DEPT. CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 260,557.76 69 JAMES PACE CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 215,597.73 21 ROBERT SIMMONS CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 260,206.82 70 ROGER HERNSTADT ASST. CITY MANAGER CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE 215,538.27 22 ROY HAMLIN FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 257,010.41 71 ROBERTO HERNANDEZ LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 215,014.08 23 VICTOR IGWE AUDITOR GENERAL INTERNAL AUDITS & REVIEWS 252,574.44 72 JOE CABRERA CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 214,973.50 24 PETER DARLEY CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 250,192.93 73 JOSEPH FERNANDEZ FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 214,769.31 25 LUIS DUTHIL CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 249,170.34 74 CRAIG DUNN FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 214,596.93 26 DANIEL MEADOWS FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 248,913.37 75 GARY DAGNAN LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 212,977.30 27 DAVID FARBER FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 248,829.11 76 RICHARD HERRIN CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 212,317.92 28 RONALD KHAWLY FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 248,318.41 77 RUBEN BARGUEIRAS FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 212,223.39 29 HENRY RODRIGUEZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 246,985.86 78 RICHARD “TIERNEY, JR.” LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 211,439.78 30 DAVID MORA CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 244,874.94 79 EMILIO SANCHEZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 211,431.10 31 FERNANDO FERNANDEZ JR. FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 244,564.68 80 EARL ALLEN JR. LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 210,611.30 32 MAURICE KEMP FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 243,384.06 81 CHARLES COLLIER LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 210,483.10 33 FRANK MOORE FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 241,626.76 82 BARRY GONZALEZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 210,211.25 34 WILLIAM LEWYCKY FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 239,827.75 83 JAMES PAUGH LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 209,677.14 35 LORAN DOUGHERTY FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 238,242.05 84 JEFFREY FITZGERALD CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 208,491.22 36 MICHAEL BRATZ CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 236,601.90 85 DAVID WALSH CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 208,428.88 37 MARIA CHIARO DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY LAW 234,486.35 86 SCOTT DEAN LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 208,359.31 38 EDWARD PIDERMANN FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 234,075.98 87 JORGE DU QUESNE CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 207,659.71 39 PHILIP LEDEA FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 233,702.77 88 GEORGE LAWRENCE LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 207,442.68 40 LARRY SPRING CFO CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE 233,525.45 89 CARLOS PEREZ LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 205,760.67 41 JOSEPH ZAHRALBAN CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 232,106.89 90 EDWARD JARRELL JR. CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 205,024.13 42 J. GUARDARRAMA FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 231,868.76 91 LESS REDDICK LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 204,120.67 43 M. JONES CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 231,739.16 92 MARIO PATTERSON LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 204,054.87 44 CHARLES MAREE FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 231,528.13 93 GUILLERMO ANIDO ASST. CITY MANAGER CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE 204,018.50 45 ALLEN JOYCE FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 230,423.41 94 ALBERTO LAGEYRE LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 203,410.60 46 ROBERT “EVANS, JR.” FIRE OFFICER FIRE RESCUE 229,622.92 95 MICHAEL COLOMBO MAJOR POLICE 201,630.12 47 RAFAEL DIAZ ASST. CITY ATTORNEY LAW 229,083.54 96 HUGO GORT CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 201,153.27 48 REGINALD DUREN FIRE CHIEF FIRE RESCUE 228,840.75 97 WILLIAM SAVOY LIEUTENANT FIRE RESCUE 200,858.67 49 WALTER GRANT CAPTAIN FIRE RESCUE 28,490.64 TOTAL 22,760,335.77

Figures represent total 2008 compensation, including overtime, settlements, retroactive pay raises, deferred compensation, health insurance, cell phone and automobile allowances. Some individuals who retired at the end of 2008 may have received unused vacation and sick time. Continued on page 15

14 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COVER STORY

Gravy Train employees: “Union families vote in great Continued from page 14 numbers and are very active in support- ing candidates who protect their salaries and strict staffi ng rules have pushed and benefi ts. Nonunion employees serve overtime pay through the roof. at the will of the manager and are safer In calendar year 2008, a total of targets….” 97 city employees received more than Obviously this is not a subject $200,000 in compensation, costing tax- that Miami offi cials like to talk about. payers more than $22.76 million, accord- Compare that attitude to the City of ing to documents prepared by the city’s Fort Lauderdale, which for the past two budget offi ce and department of employ- decades has annually released the names ee relations. Interestingly, 84 percent of of its highest-paid employees. Headlines those individuals were middle- to high- in the Miami Herald and Sun-Sentinel level supervisors at the fi re department. expressed alarm that 300 of Fort Lauder- Obtaining this information was not dale’s 2500 employees made more than easy, even though under Florida’s public $100,000 in 2008. Yet only 25 topped the records law it must be made available to $200,000 mark, at a cost of $5.4 million. anyone requesting it. In this case, a BT A more revealing city-to-city com- representative, frustrated in his efforts to parison is Miami and Atlanta. In terms of acquire the data on his own, turned to a population, Atlanta (519,000) is sub- city commissioner for help. City bu- Firefi ghters make good money. With overtime, they make really stantially bigger than Miami (404,000), reaucrats did act on the commissioner’s good money. but the two cities are very close when it request and produced two spreadsheets comes to cost of living and wage levels. listing every city employee whose total Despite the need to serve 115,000 more compensation in 2008 came to $200,000 residents, Atlanta has just 500 more city or more. The commissioner, however, workers than Miami — 4500 vs. 4000. has since asked not to be identifi ed. Plus the City of Atlanta is responsible for Other city offi cials, among them running Hartsfi eld International Airport, budget director Michael Boudreaux, city which is big and busy and comparable to manager Pete Hernandez, and chief fi - Miami International Airport. But down nancial offi cer Larry Spring, all declined here, the county operates the airport, not comment, didn’t respond to e-mails (or the city. in one case an offi ce visit), and didn’t Somehow Atlanta manages to get ev- return phone calls. No one, it seems, erything done with just six city employ- wants to discuss, or even be associated ees who make $200,000 per year or more. with, questions about how the city can Six. Of those, two are airport executives, continue paying such high salaries and meaning they have no equivalent in the balance the budget when property and City of Miami and shouldn’t be counted. resort taxes are plummeting. Even Mayor So a mere four City of Atlanta employees Manny Diaz, never at a loss for comment have salaries in the $200,000 range, com- when talking about pet projects like a pared to 97 for Miami. (For more details, taxpayer-subsidized Marlins baseball sta- see accompanying charts.) dium, was tight-lipped about the salaries. Atlanta does more with less, and does it far less expensively than Miami. Atlanta’s Big Six: Police Chief Rich- His spokeswoman, Helena Poleo, would ard Pennington, chief fi nancial offi cer only say this: “He does not have any public relations minefi eld — especially Rollason, a former Miami fi refi ghter Margaret Crenshaw, chief operating offi - comment.” when it involves the politically active fi re and assistant city manager, put it in a cer Greg Giornelli, city attorney Eliza- Why the reluctance? Because the union, known for its ability to mobilize March column analyzing a proposal to beth Chandler, aviation general manager issue of overpaying city employees is a during elections. As BT contributor Frank freeze the salaries of the city’s nonunion Benjamin R. DeCosta, and aviation deputy general manager Arnaldo Ruiz. Atlanta’s Top Salaries Total annual salary costs: $1.33 million. Miami may not have an aviation Organization Job Defi nition Name Changed Value Salary Annual SUM department, but it does have a fi re depart- DOA Aviation General Manager Aviation General Mgr Decosta, Benjamin 275,907 ment, offi cially known as the Depart- ment of Fire-Rescue. The department’s EXE Chief Operating Offi cer Chief Operating Offi cer Giornelli, Gregory 221,109 current budget is $80.1 million. Of its 685 employees, 81 received more than DOF Chief Financial Offi cer Chief Financial Offi cer Glass, James W. 215,000 $200,000 in total compensation in 2008. LAW City Attorney City Attorney Chandler, Elizabeth B 209,325 Capt. Jon Hart was the highest-paid person among that elite crew. In fact he DOA Aviation General Manager Aviation Depty Gen Mgr Diaz, Mario C 205,323 brought home more money last year than

APD Chief of Police Police Chief Pennington, Richard J 200,211 Continued on page 16

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 15 COVER STORY City of Miami/Jorge R. Perez

City Commissioner and mayoral City Commissioner and mayoral candidate Joe Sanchez: Couldn’t candidate Tomas Regalado: “It’s be reached for comment. good to work for the government, Coincidence? I guess.”

Gravy Train a consultant to assist the city’s pay- Continued from page 15 ment of retroactive pay raises. Flores banked $267,704.93, according to city anyone employed by the City of Miami: documents, which would make him the $308,317.88. 15th-highest-paid city employee. Robert Suarez, president of the Commissioner Joe Sanchez, a can- Miami Association of Fire Fighters didate for mayor, was unavailable for union, says Hart, a rescue supervisor, comment at deadline. But his commis- and several other supervisors work sion aide pointed out that Sanchez was marathon hours, sometimes as many as the lone vote against this year’s budget 100 per week, to offset vacancies that because it raised residents’ garbage fees plague the department. — though garbage fees are not directly “The only way someone could have affected by employee salaries. gotten that amount is an enormous Sanchez’s opponent for mayor, amount of overtime,” Suarez says. “That Commissioner Tomas Regalado, wor- is not anyone’s regular salary.” ries the City of Miami will soon face a Also infl ating fi refi ghter salaries are huge defi cit owing to declining prop- three years’ worth of retroactive pay erty and resort tax revenues, which may raises doled out to lieutenants, captains, lead to the fi ring of low-level, low-paid and chief fi re offi cers after the Miami workers. “I think that there is a total City Commission ratifi ed the fi re union’s divorce between reality and city busi- contract in 2007, Suarez says. Some of ness,” Regalado says. “The adminis- those payments were issued in 2008. As a tration has not fi gured out that we are result, several workers in the fi re depart- in an economic crisis. My fear is that, ment were paid more than their bosses. come budget process, the little people In addition to Hart, fi ve who held will be the ones affected and the big ranks of captain and chief fi re offi cer salaries will not be touched. To me that were paid more than city manager is not only wrong but also immoral.” Hernandez, Miami’s tenth-highest-paid As Regalado understands it, there employee, who received $274,980.88. are plenty of employees among Miami’s Eleven supervisors are listed as 4000-plus workforce who make more receiving more than fi re Chief Wil- than six fi gures annually. “There are liam “Shorty” Bryson, who pulled in more than 700 employees who make $260,557.76. Among them is Thomas $100,000,” he says. “That is a very accu- Flores, who retired as an assistant rate fi gure. I have heard that from people chief and payroll division boss in 2008 but was brought back briefl y as Continued on page 18

16 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 17 COVER STORY

Gravy Train emergency incidents a year, with 80 department’s budget,” he says. With memories still fresh of a recent Continued from page 16 percent having to do with medical emer- Firefighters, administrators, and sergeant-at-arms controversy at Miami- gencies and 20 percent dealing with fi res. department heads were not the only Dade County, where sworn offi cers who ought to know.” Suarez also insists that the city would not employees who received more than chauffeured county commissioners last Yet Regalado doesn’t want to criti- have to add so much overtime on top of $200,000 in 2008, according to the year at a cost of $743,845, BT attempted cize fi refi ghters’ salaries, instead direct- fi refi ghters’ base salaries if the city were city’s spreadsheets. Number two to ask Mayor Diaz how Acosta managed ing his ire toward “the suits,” upper man- more adept at fi lling vacant positions and on the list was Fernando Acosta, a to be paid more than Timoney in 2008, agement. “I think that probably they will issuing promotions. Right now there are Miami police officer and sergeant- as well as what duties he performs. In try to shift the focus on uniform people, eight captain vacancies and ten lieuten- at-arms for the Miami Commission. response, mayoral spokeswoman Poleo but there are a lot of suits who make a lot ant vacancies within the fi re department, Acosta earned $295,075.22 in 2008, suggested that BT “look up” the sergeant- of money,” he says, adding that several Suarez says. Since the fi re-union contract according to the city’s spreadsheet. at-arms job description. city departments are top-heavy with three requires fi refi ghters attached to a station, Reached at the mayor’s office, Acosta The city’s Employee Relations De- or four assistant directors. a fi re truck, or a rescue vehicle to be had this to say: “I wish I made that partment describes a sergeant-at-arms But even without overtime, fi refi ght- supervised, much money.” as “an executive-level position” fi lled ers make a decent amount of money. Ac- supervisors Firefi ghters, administrators, and Then he by a sworn police offi cer “responsible cording to Lt. Ignatius “Iggy” Carroll, Jr., such as Hart department heads were not the only referred all for maintaining order and providing spokesman for the fi re department, the must work questions to security during any offi cial assembly of employees who received more than salary range for rank-and-fi le fi refi ghters far beyond police Chief the city commission.” The offi cer also is between $44,685 and $67,993 per year. their normal $200,000 in 2008, according to John Timon- provides “protective coverage” to city Offi cers make more. A fi re lieutenant’s 48-hour shifts. city records. ey. (Timoney commissioners and is responsible for salary range is between $51,823 and “I know one is number “coordinating necessary transportation $81,191. A fi re captain’s is from $59,956 of the reasons four on the for city commissioners to meetings and to $93,934. Chief fi re offi cers are paid [Hart’s] salary was high is the city’s city’s list, at $290,532.66.) special events.” between $69,351 and $108,653. Assistant delay in promoting captains,” he says. The Miami Police Department’s In other words, chauffer city com- fi re chiefs, deputy fi re chiefs, and fi re Suarez, a lieutenant, claims he is public information offi ce did not reply missioners around town and make sure chiefs earn salaries between $133,134 actually frustrated that so much money to e-mailed questions about Acosta’s nobody gets out of hand at city hall. and $223,391. is going to overtime. He fears that responsibilities as sergeant-at-arms. “He Union president Suarez points out equipment needs may suffer. “It kills drives the mayor around — that’s it,” that fi re-rescue responds to 90,000 me because it all comes out of the fi re says Tomas Regalado dismissively. Feedback: [email protected]

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18 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COMMENTARY: FEEDBACK

Letters see the effects of Americans’ unthinking consumption, bringing me regular busi- Continued from page 6 ness from those who need help in getting So Who Really Cares? You out from under piles of unnecessary Care, That’s Who. belongings. After reading Wendy Doscher-Smith’s We Americans regularly purchase column about her use of the “F bomb” hundreds of items because they catch our (“Me and My Foul Mouth,” March 2009), eye or seem to be a bargain, without ever I would say that any person claiming asking ourselves whether we truly need “not to care” is usually defending a weak them. The environmental movement is position, and certainly persons who feel often regarded as being made up of ho- shame for their actions should realize lier-than-thou, goody-two-shoes people, the fault is all their own. I appreciate the but really, many of the modest practices ridiculousness of censoring language, but they (and Harper’s article) espouse are in it’s far more ridiculous to see a grown the consumer’s best interest. Purchasing woman put herself in the emotional posi- less-than-necessary items costs money tion of a second-grader over it. and emotional energy, and it requires one Other people exist, and you are to have ever-larger (and more expensive) accountable for the consequences of dwellings to store things. your actions. I’m hoping that the silver lining to Rajan Purcell the current economic crisis is that people Bayside begin to evaluate their true material needs and priorities, fi nancial and personal. The The Uncluttered Life burgeoning frugality-simplicity-environ- Thank you so much for Jim W. mental movement is not just good for the Harper’s timely article “World-Class environment and the pocketbook — it’s Gluttons” (February 2009). As a personal great for the spirit, too. organizer who specializes in helping Amy McKenna people de-clutter their homes, I regularly Edgewater

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 19 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: MIAMI SHORES Rackless in the Village: A Two-Wheeled Odyssey The Shores is not exactly bicycle-friendly

By Jen Karetnick, BT Contributor & “I enjoy riding my bicycle around the village. Cathi Marro, Special to BT One of my favorite stops is Starbucks. As if the parking lot isn’t enough of a disaster for cars, I ave you ever noticed the lack of bicycle have even more trouble parking my bike. I used racks in the Shores? I didn’t. Perhaps to chain it to a stop sign in a patch of grass on Hbecause, like the gas guzzler I am, I drive the corner. It was the only place I could fi nd when everywhere I go around this tiny village of ours. Starbucks fi rst opened. That spot disappeared But my dear friend Cathi Marro, a professional quickly as they put up a giant sign and bushes so musician (I play fl ute with her in the Miami Shores I can no longer get to the stop sign.” Flute Ensemble), who lives just outside the Miami Shores in unincorporated territory, likes to two- wheel it, for both economic and ecologic reasons. For some time now, as she gets more and more frustrated, she’s been sending me photos (with captions!) of everywhere she has to chain her bicycle when she makes a stop in the Shores. I’ve decided it would benefi t all of us — vil- “So lately I’ve been lagers and our newly elected leaders alike — to chaining up to this see her photo essay. And before you take note of handicapped parking “Recently I discovered a new her eccentric sense of humor, let me just tell you: sign a few doors down.” bench on NE 2nd Avenue. A Yes, she happens to be good friends with another bit inconvenient and, like the of our Biscayne Times columnists in addition to black benches themselves, my me. Can you guess who? bike seat really heats up in the blazing South Florida sun.”

20 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: MIAMI SHORES

“Streetlight bike rack.” “I am searching for a new bike rack. I found another bench that is in a prettier setting — no “This one is out of construction and lots of nice the way of cars:” fl owers. It is still hot, though, and my bike takes away seating space. Plus I wonder if the benches are really secured to the ground well enough.”

“Parking meter bike rack.”

“The more I look around, the more I realize there are bike racks all over Miami Shores. I could use that LEFT LANE CLOSED AHEAD sign!”

“Some people drive around “Signs often make counterintuitive their own bike rack. Perhaps Feedback: [email protected] bike racks.” this is the best idea after all.”

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 21 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: BELLE MEADE Put On a Happy Face With a little help from the city, MiMo can dazzle us once again By Frank Rollason BT Contributor

et’s say you’re driving along Biscayne Boulevard in the Upper LEastside. It’s rush hour, so you’re moving somewhat slowly — slowly

enough that you have a chance to look BT photos by Frank Rollason around. That’s when you notice a store- front business you haven’t seen before. Must be new, you think. The next thought is an important one: “Maybe I’ll check it out this week- end.” Or conversely: “Ugh. No way I’m going to visit that place — it’s a dump.” The idea behind the program is to doors, showcase windows, signage, and return on investment! What attracts you during that initial stimulate economic activity by putting on security shutters or impact glass for And what are the rules for participat- encounter? What repels you? Chances the happy, inviting face that prompts you to qualifi ed businesses. How much funding ing? First, the business must be located are it’s the way the business presents think, “Yes, I’ll stop by this weekend.” It’s are we talking about? Up to $10,000 per in the City of Miami and must possess a itself, its “face,” so to speak. common sense, really. A place whose public business is available on a sliding scale valid occupational license and certifi cate Enter the City of Miami’s “commercial façade appears menacing — or even just of participation by the business owner. of use. The business will also have to façade program.” This is a city initiative neglected — will not attract the curious cus- For instance, a grant of between $5000 supply a current property survey and that’s been around for years, but like most tomer who’ll never discover what treasures or and $10,000 would require the business proof of fl ood insurance. In addition, the programs of its ilk, it gets little publicity. professional services lie just beyond the door. to kick in 15 percent ($1500 for a full business must be located within a census Property owners and business proprietors Miami’s façade program can provide $10,000 grant), with the city funding learn about it mainly by word-of-mouth. pressure cleaning and painting, awnings, the other 85 percent ($8500). Not a bad Continued on page 23

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22 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: BELLE MEADE

Happy Face windows, the South Pacifi c Motel received was “philosophically opposed to using following comment: “I am not familiar with Continued from page 22 a grant for painting, and the Biscayne Inn CDBG [Community Development Block this program — what can you tell me about received a grant for a new neon sign. (See Grants] for façade grants,” which is how it?” (You’d hope that, after two and a half tract designated as fi nancially depressed accompanying photos.) the program is funded. He elaborated by years in offi ce, the commissioner would have or lower-income. The bulk of the MiMo Other local businesses have been saying, “I have a philosophical problem heard from city staff about the program’s Historic District (Biscayne Boulevard approved and are awaiting funding from with refunding those [businesses] that bene fi ts. His four colleagues on the commis- between NE 50th and NE 77th streets) next year’s budget. On that list are the have received [façade grants] already sion all support it.) qualifi es. The program operates out of Shalimar Motel for painting; Hiperfi t in the past four years, and using public In light of the uncertainty over the the city manager’s offi ce through the gym for painting; Casa Toscana for money on a private building.” façade program’s future in District 2, I Offi ce of Economic Development, with painting, doors, and signage; Jamboree Lest anyone misunderstand, he suggest that those of you who’d like direct services being supplied by local for painting, doors, and signage; as well reiterated his position: “I’ve never been a to see it continue — especially those community-based organizations (CBOs), as Moonchine Asian Bistro for awnings. fan of he façade program — I don’t think of you who’ve already been approved which are located throughout the city. Like most good things, however, the it’s a proper use of [community develop- for funding — contact Commissioner For the Upper Eastside, the CBO is the façade program isn’t without its detrac- ment] money.” When asked by attendees Sarnoff and present your case in hopes Rafael Hernandez Housing and Economic tors. It appears that our District 2 city how he intends to spend CDBG money of persuading him to keep it going, and Development Corporation. The contact commissioner, Marc Sarnoff, is not next fi scal year, the commissioner to maintain the existing formula for par- person is Henry Mojica, who is the project convinced that funding for this program replied that he was “inclined” to fund ticipation. This is one city program that manager for the façade program. Henry should continue — or continue with the projects dealing with children. “When really works. It’s an integral part of the can be reached at 305-576-9895 or via same sliding scale of participation. I the competition [for money] comes down MiMo Historic District’s efforts to re- e-mail at [email protected]. attended a MiMo Biscayne Association to children or something else,” he said, capture the relevance it once had, when I can hear the cynics among you saying, meeting on the evening of April 15 to “I will support the children.” Before the the area was an attraction for thousands “Great, there’s a program, but does anyone listen to the commissioner present his meeting ended, however, he wavered of travelers along U.S. 1. It can be that really get any money?” The answer to position on the program to a group of 17 between “I’m not sure what I’m going to again — with a little help from the city. that question is a resounding Yes! Thanks property and business owners along Bis- do” and “I’ve decided to fund [the façade to the efforts of Henry and the MiMo cayne Boulevard in the Upper Eastside. program] at a lower level than before.” Contact Commissioner Sarnoff at his Biscayne Association, several businesses To say that his comments put a Recently, in response to a letter he city hall offi ce (305-250-5333) or via in the historic district have already benefi ted. damper on the groups’ hopes would received from one of the historic district busi- e-mail ([email protected]) Uva 69 received a grant for awnings, Carl’s be an understatement. The commis- nesses extolling the virtues of the program, Motel El Padre received a grant for impact sioner explained that, in general, he he forwarded the e-mail to city staff with the Feedback: [email protected]

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May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 23 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: BISCAYNE PARK Dark Skies, Cold Rain, and Death Memories of a massacre too close to home By Wendy Doscher-Smith things I like about living here. One of BT Contributor them is the cultural diversity. Growing up in Miami, as a non- he Friday morning when 14 people practicing Jew, I had an identity crisis. I were shot dead just blocks from related more to the Cuban community. Tmy house in Binghamton, New In Binghamton there are many cultures York, was typical of early April, a.k.a. that are radically different, from Greek The Spring Lie. Which is to say that Orthodox to Ukrainian, Italian to Protes- outside the many large windows of my tant. The very presence of the Southern home, the weather was about as cheery Doscher-Smith BT photo by Wendy Tier Melting Pot made me feel a little as a proctology exam. less homesick. When we bought this house, the win- For me, living in Miami and moving to dows were a draw. However, all I’ve wanted Binghamton was like eating Cap’n Crunch to do for months now is draw some heavy Berries your whole life and then switching curtains over them, shutting out the funereal to All Bran. I needed some Fruit Loops, skies. I’d also shut out the roar of the buses Frosted Flakes, and Sugar Pops. In the and the neighbor’s howling dog. The poor various cultures, I found my fi x. After all, beagle is on a tie-out, the owners leaving him Binghamton was crowned the “Capital of out each night until they retire. Cruel and D-Defi cient Darkness that burrowed because of its beautiful Victorian homes the Pierogy Pocket” by Mrs. T’s pierogies. stupid behavior to infl ict on a dog. inside me was only in the amoebic stage. and its proximity to downtown. While Just down the street from our house is the But let’s step back to a time before Back then, the windows seemed lovely, house hunting, we considered surround- Euro-Mart, run by an older Ukrainian the eight-month winter here in South and I knew not of the helpless dog and ing areas, including a suburb called woman in a fl oral apron. The inventory, Alaska transformed me into a grumpy, rumbling buses. Vestal, though I quickly dismissed it as including strange chocolates, uncovered miserable prick I don’t even recognize. My husband and I chose to live in the a bit too Stepford for me. Besides the It was late summer, and the Vitamin West Side neighborhood of Binghamton lovely homes, there are maybe fi ve other Continued on page 25

24 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENTS: BISCAYNE PARK

Dark Skies of antlers on a deer.) Jeremy sent an At that point, about 1:00 p.m., the entire take that left turn on Front Street off of Continued from page 24 e-mail warning me to avoid downtown. city was on lockdown. Binghamton High Main Street almost daily. I almost dismissed it. I was supposed to School is practically across the street from Later that night it rained. The bridge baked goods, and dried-up sardines, made go downtown to get an enlargement of the American Civic Association. Countless into the city was jammed with satellite news me feel oddly at home. a picture made for a client. But I imag- times I’ve driven by those kids all bundled- trucks. The American Civic Association was Johnson City, which is minutes away ined the local cops would be all fl ustered up as they wait after school for city buses still yellow-taped. We drove by the service and is one of the “Triple Cities” that about this shooting, whatever it was, and to take them to the mall or home or wher- held at the church near the scene. also includes Binghamton and Endicott, I’d get stuck in traffi c. So I decided to do ever freezing high-schoolers go. Yet for all the insanity of the day, it was is home to many Ukrainians as well as it another time. As a journalist, I also knew that the still just early April in Binghamton. And with Asians. The American Civic Association Instead I headed for Vestal, a few ACA itself was probably on bigger lock- the heavy rain came the worms — never one shooter, Jiverly Wong, lived there. His minutes away, for a photo shoot. On the down than the city. I felt at once neutered of my favorites. (As a kid in Miami, I refused 13 victims hailed from eight different way, I got a text from a friend who works and elated. I could walk there from my to leave the house when they emerged, and countries. at NBC in Miami asking about the shoot- house. I could dodge anyone I had to, or here, years later, I’m no different. I had to be I know the American Civic Associa- ing. I thought that was weird as she never sneak in anywhere I had to in order to piggybacked to the car.) tion building, but the day of the shoot- texts me. Then I got a call from another take pictures. I had done it before. But the worms are a sign of new ings it took me a second to fi gure where friend in Miami. Weird again, as she But I stayed at my friend’s house in beginnings. And even as I cringed at the it was. Since I’m a photographer, the didn’t usually call. I dismissed it as well. Vestal, transfi xed before the television, sight of them, I knew they meant spring Binghamton architecture, with its decay- It wasn’t until 20 minutes later, when I watching the whole thing unfold on had arrived. I hoped the worms marked ing iron and fi lthy brick, appeals to me. called her back and then got to a televi- international news. I had done the photo new beginnings for the victims’ fami- Still, of all the hundreds pictures I’ve sion, that I realized this wasn’t some shoot there I intended to do, and lingered lies, as well as for Wong’s family. They shot, none are of that building. Archi- routine, boozy gunplay. long afterward. also suffered a loss, and deserved our tecturally, the ACA structure is nothing Stories of random shootings and mul- Thing is, as hard as I have tried to thoughts and prayers. special. Now, of course, the whole world tiple deaths are always shocking. When it fi ght being a part of this community, I For a moment, as a bus whooshed knows what it looks like. happens blocks from your house, in a small think I fi nally felt a connection that day. by and the neighbor’s beagle howled, When the news broke about some community, it’s downright fantastical. Maybe it was because I’ve spent many all felt normal in Binghamton. And for kind of shooting, I fi gured it involved an When it happens and you are a journalist hours on the streets outside the massacre that, on the third day of April 2009, I argument between two drunken town- who lives in the locale, it is uncanny. site, my camera in tow. Maybe it was be- was grateful. ies over who bagged a 14-pointer during My immediate reaction was to race cause I bought a pair of eyeglass frames hunting season. (Translation: the number back to Binghamton and cover the story. across the street from the ACA, or that I Feedback: [email protected]

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 25 COMMUNITY NEWS Fort Knox Redefi ned You’ve fi nally brought home one too many Picassos. Now what? By Anne Tschida Security measures at the Vault Special to BT include confi dentiality about what art is already in storage and who owns it — he entry to Museo Vault is fl anked Lombardi and his staff don’t want to give by two small but sleek art galler- potential thieves any extra information.

Ties, with fl oor-to-ceiling windows BT photo by Silvia Ros But a major Miami collector, Dennis facing NW 29th Street. Inside one are Scholl, doesn’t have to follow a similar sculptures made from old drive-in movie vow of silence. He was recently named speakers, staplers, radio parts. Viewed Miami program director for the Knight in this nicely air-conditioned space, the Foundation, which includes leading the exhibit “Rocket Man” is pretty cool all $40 million Knight Arts Challenge; and around. It turns out to be a prescient pre- parts of the collection he created with view to what stands behind the tightly his wife Debra currently are showing in sealed doors of the Vault. an exhibition at the Frost Art Museum The Museo Vault, opened this past at FIU. “I can’t imagine a better place to November, is an art storage, services, and have important objects if you want them shipping facility. But that makes it sound protected,” he says. “The space is world- prosaic. Unlike the intentionally retro class — well thought out, organized, “Rocket Man” in the front annex, this and ready to handle almost any kind of place is truly space-age. art object. It’s a dramatic upgrade from After handing over ID to security, the David Lombardi’s new venture carries a message: In the art existing facilities.” fi rst of many thick, heavily video-monitored world, Miami is now on the map. But while many seem to agree there doors opens, revealing fi ve fl oors and is a need for such up-to-date services, 86,000-square-feet of state-of-the-art every- artist studios, and which he says are now There’s more to the facility than doors even Lombardi acknowledges the thing, or so it seems. There’s the handsome all occupied. and climate, says a proud Lombardi on this timing might be off. “Unfortunately,” and expertly lit viewing room, where collec- Lombardi explains how humidity and hot spring afternoon. “We have the best he says, “we opened just as the reces- tors, artists, and museum curators can show water are the worst enemies of art; so the people providing the services.” Almost sion hit the art market.” The occupancy guests artwork in a posh setting. There’s the humidity inside Museo Vault is constant- on cue, Alan Myers, the fi ne arts collec- rate is not nearly as high as he had security-intense loading dock and also the ly monitored with 50 sensors, and water tion manager, steps out of an elevator. He hoped at this point, and they are not crating and packing center, where craftsmen sprinklers will only activate in very tar- had served a 17-year stint at the Whitney running at full capacity in terms of ser- build customized shipping containers and geted areas in case of fi re. The lights are Museum in New York before coming to vices, “but we’ll wait it through, like insulated casings. Upstairs: color-coordinated covered in UV protection sleeves, and Miami. Lombardi remarks that Myers had everyone else.” storage and offi ce rooms, and hanging panel the entire building has a back-up power just changed the protective plastic covering A potential client arrives to take a spaces. The whole building is cocooned by system to keep those climate and security on a painting, and Myers explains that leav- tour. If Lombardi’s dream succeeds, the a hyper climate- and humidity-controlled controls running even if a dreaded hur- ing it on too long can cause harm. He gets client might be one who catalogues his system, and happens to sit on some of the ricane should hit. Says Lombardi: “It pro- very personal with the art, even visiting a collection using the viewing room as highest land in Miami. vides a [new] collector’s home camera-ready documenting space, and in That, at least, is according to the proj- infrastructure fi rst to get to the future will log-on on the Vault’s se- All this techno-gadgetry has a ect’s founder and owner David Lombardi, for Miami.” know it and cured Website to check out his artworks, a prominent developer in the Wynwood That distinct purpose and makes a distinct then “fi gure or show them to others, maybe while arts district. The elevation of the property safety struc- statement: This is a unique art-services out the best he’s in Paris. is an extra bonus here in fl ood-prone ture is espe- center, and it was built in Miami for way to store it.” “It is a high-quality project, and any- hurricane alley, Lombardi points out as cially neces- a reason. Hands-on thing of high quality gets high marks from he maneuvers another high-tech entry sary here care extends me,” says Michelle Weinberg, local artist into another part of the Vault. In fact all in Florida, to the crating and director of the Girls’ Club, a private art of this techno-gadgetry has a distinct according to Jane Hart, curator of ex- and shipping side of the business as foundation and alternative art space. “But purpose and makes a distinct statement: hibitions at the Art and Culture Center well. There are legion shipping disaster obviously the economy at this moment This is a unique art-services center, and it Hollywood. “Even compared to a simi- tales, of art arriving late for an opening, may make it a challenge to launch.” was built in Miami for a reason. lar place like L.A., our humidity and and worse, arriving damaged or half Scholl says that Museo Vault’s pres- We have growing art collections and salt are brutal here,” she says. “Serious dismantled. And packaging contempo- ence means more than merely additional galleries, with increasingly important collectors need a serious storage space.” rary art is no small task — pieces can storage space: “This concept is another and expensive work, and handling all of Hart points out that as household col- include room-size installations, deli- statement about Miami’s position as an it should not be left to amateurs, espe- lections have grown along with the cate rice paper, glass sculptures. From important city in the art world. We’re one cially on this southern tip of Florida. That status of art, “people have more stuff in the back of the huge crating room, one of the largest collecting cities in America would be the thinking behind the $10 their homes than they can handle. It’s carpenter remembers trying to transport now. It’s an amazing facility, and I do million facility for Lombardi, whose become popular to rotate your collec- an enormous metal sculpture from the hope they do well.” Wynwood Lofts were some of the fi rst tion, and it is now very important to artist Britto, which he said eventually spaces built specifi cally for artists and safely store what you are not showing.” had to involve forklifts. Feedback: [email protected]

26 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COMMUNITY NEWS A School Is Born Coming to the neighborhood: A dream called Miami Arts Charter School By Margaret Griffi s This focus on the arts is possible Special to BT thanks to a relatively new educational movement that blossomed in the fter summer vacation, when 1990s. Basically, charter schools are the lights switch on again at autonomous public schools, licensed

AMiami-Dade public schools BT photo by Silvia Ros and monitored by Miami-Dade County this August, several hundred lucky Public Schools offi cials. Like the stan- students will have a new school in dard version, the charters are open to all the Design District to call their own. children living within the county, their Instead of stuffi ng the usual pencils and students pay no tuition, and they receive notebooks into their backpacks, though, local, state, and federal tax dollars for these kids will also carry paint brushes their operating expenses. Unlike most and ballerina slippers to classes at the public schools, however, charters are not Miami Arts Charter School, which will constrained by attendance boundaries; occupy the former Channel 10 studios they can accept students living anywhere at 3900 Biscayne Blvd. in the state. Miami Arts Charter, or MAC, is the In 1996 the fi rst charter schools ap- latest charter school to open in the county. peared in Florida; today more than 70 are Founded by husband and wife educa- Alfredo and Christine de la Rosa had a vision: A arts program forever operating in Miami-Dade County alone. tional team Alfredo and Christine de la protected from budget cuts. The main difference between charter and Rosa, MAC will provide the conven- standard public schools is that decision- tional middle- and high-school learning their creative skills. Even as other public dancers, actors, musicians, and creative making, beyond that which is prescribed experience, but it will also offer students schools see their arts and music budgets writers will fi nd a nurturing environment an unparalleled opportunity to develop dwindling dramatically, visual artists, at this new campus. Continued on page 29 Low Turnout but High Hopes Political newcomer Donald Shockey sails to victory in Miami Shores By Mark Sell about landscaping and aesthetics.) public schools and local civic causes. “I Special to BT Evidently a good portion of the 19 was not surprised that Donald Shockey percent of the electorate (1308) who won, but I was surprised that the election iami Shores prides itself on actually did show up to vote for the got so close. And I was disappointed at being Mayberry in the hood. three open slots on the village council how few people voted.” MTwenty minutes from down- were ready to mix it up. Judging from Hunt Davis put his Vanderbilt MBA town, fi ve minutes from Little Haiti, the “bullet voting,” in which voters se- and experience running a small business seven minutes from Liberty City, ten lected just one candidate instead of the to use in his two years on the council, minutes from the beaches — this verdant, allotted three, some of them voted for mastering the budget, embracing Doctors closely knit village of 10,000 has the Shockey to the exclusion of the others, Charter School, and mud-wrestling with good sense to get its rest. Conveying that as if to mix things up a little more. the Florida Legislature on the village’s impression of restfulness and insularity “People see the village as being old- behalf. He’s just 39 years old, so no one takes work: a dedicated management and fashioned, which has its advantages and Donald Shockey: For one dollar per expects him to disappear. elected council, a friendly and alert con- disadvantages,” Shockey said in a post- year, he’ll now grapple with some At any rate, change is coming on the stabulary, effi cient public works, tough election interview. “There is a general million-dollar problems. council, but — as poet Carl Sandburg zoning, persnickety code enforcement, a feeling that new blood can’t hurt. There’s once said of frost — on cat feet. Shockey dense social network, municipal taxes, a a feeling that decisions are made, if not nephew, with 619 votes) and second-time is but one vote in fi ve in a weak-mayor/ decent budget, and just a touch of the old behind closed doors, at least behind doors not contender Eddie Lewis (361 votes). strong manager government, and he NIMBY syndrome (not in my backyard). as open as they could be. So this candidacy Shockey, Herrera, and Al Davis will needs to get his bearings among four The April 14 Village Council election was about being more inclusive, getting more join incumbents and village mainstays seasoned colleagues. nudged the village awake with a surprise: people involved. Sustainability is also huge.” Steve Loffredo, an attorney, Herta Holly, Once he does get his bearings, expect the strong second-place fi nish of relative Shockey (690 votes) came in just a school administrator. Village manager Shockey to push for more inclusiveness political newcomer and new vice mayor behind Al Davis (724 votes), who is now Tom Benton, a 37-year employee who and citizen participation, greater Internet Donald Shockey, a 51-year-old urban mayor for the third time. Both will serve rose through the ranks, will remain. access and transparency in the village’s planner and self-styled change agent. (He four-year terms. Incumbent Councilman “I was surprised that Hunt Davis dealings. He’s also expected to champion served from 2002 to 2004 on the Planning Prospero Herrera II (675 votes) won a didn’t make it back in,” said Robert Doctors Charter School and to advocate and Zoning Board, where he was known two-year term, and knocked out highly Bourne, a prominent local Realtor and as equable in his dealings and passionate regarded incumbent Hunt Davis (Al’s major contributor of time and treasure to Continued on page 28

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 27 COMMUNITY NEWS

Shockey Mock Continued from page 27 y Miami Shores voter precincts: Turnout ranged from 7% Marc for various “green,” “sustainable,” and (precinct 154) to 29% (precinct 157). y volunteer initiatives that bring people together and do not cost money. BT map by Marcy Mock b He could create waves — if not win votes — by favoring an FEC passenger rail station at 87th Street, near Tropical Chevrolet, or raising the issue of term limits for the two boards with binding authority: planning and zoning and code enforcement. More broadly, expect greater outreach to neighboring governments and the county. The immediate fi scal challenges are brutal: a shattered economy; deci- mated jobs and attendant foreclosures; a crippled housing market (unsold inven- tories are down to 165 from 234 a year ago, but prices are still falling); groaning and intractable pension costs; slashed revenue-sharing from the state; and lower property values and tax revenues. The result is a pinched budget ($11.9 million, down $500,000 from last year), higher millage ($7.63 per $1000 assessed

Continued on page 29

28 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COMMUNITY NEWS

School Continued from page 27 to build programs for kids that eventually, there,” he laughs. “Having a school like that was already geared to high-quality for whatever reason — fi nancial, political, Miami Arts in the neighborhood benefi ts arts production. Among other benefi ts, by law, occurs entirely within the school or whatever — end up being done away everybody. We’ll be producing the artists large interior open spaces will turn into itself. with. The only way to ensure that is to and musicians and writers and painters rehearsal halls, while soundproof editing As founder and executive direc- have control.” of the future, who are going to ultimately bays will become practice rooms. tor, Alfredo de la Rosa explains, “The De la Rosa has worked as a public- stay here in Miami and contribute back MAC will be leasing the building thing that drove me the most is that I school educator for more than 20 years, to the arts community, or move on to from 3900 Biscayne LLC, an invest- built several good [arts] programs over is nationally board-certifi ed, and has the professional world as better people, ment group that includes Miami architect the years, and large systems and bu- launched a number of magnet schools better professionals overall, because of Kobi Karp, who is known not only for reaucracies being what they are, they already, so he has plenty of experience the discipline they’ll be learning.” his innovative designs but also for his tend to have a decision-making process to guide him in this ambitious under- As for those Channel 10 studios, commitment to preservation and green that doesn’t always jibe with what any taking. He grew up in the Miami-Dade the serendipitous relocation of WPLG technologies. His architecture company particular teacher is trying to do. The arts public school system, and would even to Pembroke Park in March not only is very active in remodeling the facility are frequently the fi rst things to go. I just ride his bike by the Channel 10 studios to opened the door to MAC, it provided wanted to make sure that I don’t continue class. “I never thought I’d open a school the school with a landmark building Continued on page 31

Shockey (Bourne is on to something. Miami Shores time — about as close to Mayor for Life gay community. In fact, Shockey, Al Continued from page 28 commands fi erce loyalty and a deep tradi- as the village charter allows. Davis, and Hunt Davis were endorsed by tion of civic service.) The elder Davis is a conservative SAVE-Dade, the gay-lesbian-transgender valuation, up from $7.14), and the threat Shockey, trim and gray-haired, had Republican but defi es red-blue stereo- advocacy group. of higher fees for strapped families. strong support from the gay and profes- types. Flinty with public money, he is As an election force, the gay commu- So with all this, why would anyone sional communities, which put him just committed to preserving the A-rated but nity has come into its own as a signifi cant want a tough job on the village council for 34 votes behind 60-year-resident Al cash-strapped charter school, which has minority, with a disproportionate share a buck a year? “You have to have service in Davis, the fl orid, rotund, blunt-talking kept many families from fl eeing the vil- of voters and contributors. Some may be your blood,” Bourne observed. “Candidates son of Alabama who calls the village lage over schools. Davis’s fans are spread surprised to learn that Miami Shores has don’t do this for fame or fortune. And they “Mahmuh Shores.” At age 69 he was among the old guard, liberal professional want to keep it going in the right direction.” elected mayor for an unprecedented third types, and Miami Shores’s infl uential Continued on page 30 HUGE Hot Tub Anniversary Sale! WORLDS BEST HOT TUBS NOW ON SALE... Payments As Low As $94 With NO MONEY DOWN! UP TO $3000 OFF on Selected Models FREE Spa Maintenance For One Year!

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May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 29 COMMUNITY NEWS

Shockey (The involvement of a political party in Summary Report: Miami Shores - April 14, 2009 General Election Unoffi cial Results Continued from page 29 such a nonpartisan election is rare but has happened before. The Republican Party Registered Voters - Total 6,870 the sixth-highest concentration of same- supported Karen Kirby for Miami Shores sex couples in the United States. Prov- council in 1985; she was elected mayor. Ballots Cast - Total 1,306 incetown, Massachusetts, is number one; Shockey is a staunch Democrat.) Wilton Manors in Broward is number Candidate Shockey also benefi ted Voter Turnout - Total 19.01% four; and Key West is behind the Shores from the organizational skill of marketing Village Council Votes % at number eight. veteran and entrepreneur Bob Domlesky, Shockey owes his victory to more who advocates “green and sustainable” Al Davis 724 23.59% than voters’ desire for change. Even initiatives and signed on three weeks Hunt Davis 619 20.17% though he didn’t decide to run until fi ve before the election because he wanted to jolt the village from its Prospero Guillermo Herrera, II 675 21.99% “somnolence.” Eddie Lewis 361 11.76% Shockey: “There’s a feeling that The electorate — if decisions are made, if not behind narrow — is highly educated, Donald P. Shockey 690 22.48% closed doors, at least behind doors not and the population markedly as open as they could be.” more diverse than its apparent When the time came to celebrate the Miami Shores looks different from this. leadership. Roughly one in four three winners at the Miami Shores Country Look, I have nothing against marshmal- households is African-Amer- Club on April 21, many of the usual suspects low drops and Christmas tree lightings, but ican, nearly 14 percent West turned out — a combination of bluebloods people have all kinds of belief systems weeks before the election, he says he Indian, 22 percent Hispanic, and 48 percent with lime-green blazers and white shoes, gay and can always feel more included. You managed to raise just over $2000, about non-Hispanic white. worthies exchanging kisses and “darlings,” could have all kinds of community events average for a council candidate. Yard Miami Shores also trends blue, and slight- and newcomers taking in the scene. Marcy bringing people together and they don’t signs sprouted like dandelions right at ly young, with an average age of 37. All eight Orth, a Shockey backer who sets up on-loca- need to cost money. We can get creative. the end, following door-to-door cam- precincts in Miami Shores went for Obama tion production shoots, was bemused. I’m ready for change, and I think that’s paigning, detailed position papers, and this past November, averaging roughly 70 “Look at this crowd,” she said. “You what Shockey represents.” endorsements and phone-bank calls from percent. That varied from 57 percent in pre- honestly think this refl ects the Shores? I go the Democratic Party and SAVE-Dade. cinct 157 to 83 percent in precinct 154. door-to-door to set up shoots, and we know Feedback: [email protected]

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30 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COMMUNITY NEWS

School elaborates: “Because we’re such a great will have. De la Rosa resists calling language arts. Nor will they get out of Continued from page 29 resource of talent, [MAC] is hiring some them competition and believes the three those dreaded P.E. classes. The academic of our students [for tutoring and other schools complement each other as there program will operate within Florida’s as a school. Says de la Rosa: “We’re very instruction], and I think even some of are so many Miami-Dade students who “Next Generation Sunshine State Stan- fortunate to have run into them, because our part-time faculty to do some teach- are interested in the arts. In fact, skills dards,” and the school will eventually it really is a big helping hand to have ing there, which means instruction will learned at MAC could help middle- seek accreditation through the Southern such expertise onboard.” be at a very high level.” The relationship school students get into New World or Association of Colleges and Schools. Another mutual advantage to the between MAC and UM is still its early DASH if that’s the path they wish to take. So what has been the most diffi cult community will be MAC’s links to the stages, Berg adds, and will develop and MAC will, however, screen prospective part of creating a brand-new school? De University of Miami’s Frost School of defi ne itself students much la Rosa doesn’t hesitate with an answer: Music, which de la Rosa calls “among over time. the same way real estate. It took nearly two years, he the best in the world.” The dean of the Two other “I just wanted to make sure that I don’t as New World says, to fi nd an appropriate location for Frost School, Shelton Berg, sits on the public schools continue to build programs for kids that and DASH. the middle and high school, and he still MAC governing board. “At a time of offering an eventually, for whatever reason, end up Children will hasn’t found a building to house what cutbacks,” says Berg, “I think it’s really arts curricu- being done away with.” be required will be MAC’s already approved elemen- important for something as essential as lum are practi- to apply and tary school. So that part of the project music and art that this school is starting. cally neigh- possibly audi- will have to wait until at least the 2010 Music has never been more important bors: Design tion for a spot school year, if not longer. to people than it is now. It’s ingrained and Architecture Senior High (DASH) at MAC. If they are enrolling as beginners at What he and his wife won’t have dif- in everyone’s life, and it’s part of what is just across the railroad tracks from the sixth-grade level, they will go through an fi culty fi nding is enough talented students weaves us together as a society. When MAC, and the New World School of the interview to determine if the school is the best to fi ll the halls. The school held its fi rst it’s cut from education, I think there’s no Arts is nearby in downtown Miami. Both fi t for them. As they mature as artists, they audition this past March at the University regard for just how essential it is to the schools serve 9th through 12th grades will have the opportunity to audition for spe- of Miami. More than 125 students par- human experience. I call it the ‘mortar of (New World also features a college cifi c programs and ensembles, or to simply ticipated. Auditions will continue through humanity’ because it really is.” component), and both are magnet schools complete their core academic studies. July or until there is a waiting list to get MAC will have its normal retinue within the Miami-Dade County Public Yes, just because MAC is an “arts” in. Interested students can apply online at of accredited teachers, but through the Schools system. Being magnet schools, charter school doesn’t mean students www.miamiartscharter.net. Frost School, students will have access to as opposed to charters, means they don’t won’t receive a rigorous education in broader educational opportunities. Berg enjoy the same level of autonomy MAC math, science, social studies, and the Feedback: [email protected]

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May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 31 POLICE REPORTS Biscayne Crime Beat Compiled by Derek McCann Revolution No. 9, the were stolen. The front door lock had White Album been completely cut off. The woman left 5400 Block of NE 1st Court calmly carrying the same brief case with Police were called to respond to a report her obedient accomplice at her side. A that a woman was being attacked by perimeter was set up but no arrests were a white dude with dreadlocks. The made, despite the detailed description of suspect repeatedly tried to enter the the woman in black. apartment and, according to police, at one point threatened: “Bitch, I’m Worst-Case Scenario going to get you. Stop fucking with my 100 Block of NE 68th Terrace family; you poured bleach on yourself.” This victim came home to fi nd his The bleach refers to another report fi led ex-boyfriend in the kitchen. The ex earlier in the day by the same victim, was not supposed to be there, but the who claimed someone threw bleach victim never changed the security code at her face. (Two police reports in the to the apartment. This was not to be same day — hey, doesn’t everyone do a pleasant rendezvous. The ex-fl ame look, she was carrying a black briefcase. Tough Economy: grabbed the victim by the hair and this on their day off?) When detectives Appearances aside, the observer was screamed, “I’m going to kill your ass!” came the next day to investigate, they Businesswoman Adds about to witness a crime. The woman He punched the victim several times were told that the apartment where the was let into his neighbor’s apartment by Burglary to Her Résumé in the face, then grabbed a knife and incident occurred, No. 9, does not exist. a mysterious man who had no authoriza- 2200 Block of Biscayne Boulevard forced himself on the victim. This hor- The owner, who has since foreclosed tion to be there as the neighbor was on Man observed a petite woman with rifi c ordeal lasted close to two hours, on the property, has never heard of the vacation. The apartment was ransacked long, shoulder-length red hair wearing until the victim was fi nally able to victim. Nevertheless, a letter will be a black suit jacket and matching pants. (closet doors removed and clothes strewn sent to the phantom apartment. To complete the downtown professional about) and several pieces of jewelry Continued on page 33

32 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 POLICE REPORTS

Crime Beat away and the victim was hospitalized. Okay, Then Just Give Me Laundry Hell He has recovered. Continued from page 32 Your Dog 2000 Block of N. Bayshore Drive escape and call police. Think slow and Belle Meade A woman was washing her clothes in hard Miamians: Is your future ex likely Clothing Store Hit A man was walking his dog, Coco, when her condo’s tenth-fl oor laundry facility. to do something similar? 7400 Block of Biscayne Boulevard he was approached by a seedy couple While her garments were in the dryer, Owner secured her business on a Sunday asking for directions. Their destination she left the laundry room. When she re- turned to retrieve them, the clothes were Upgrade that Security morning at 11:00 a.m. The next day, was impossible to discern, and the dog- when she returned, it was obvious some- walker was unable to help. This angered gone. No witnesses or fashion clones System thing was very wrong. The front door the twosome, who demanded the man have been found. 700 Block NE 62nd Street was ajar and approximately $30,000 sell them his dog for $400. The man A man left his condo’s sliding door in items had been taken from the store. refused, so the pair simply grabbed the Plug in an Extension Cord, unlocked, but used a wooden stick to The angles of the security cameras were dog and fl ed in a waiting car. Go to Jail keep it shut. Security was on duty, so smartly shifted so there was no video 200 Block of NE 62nd Street the man was not worried. He left for evidence of the perps at work. Man’s Bling Gets Pinged During hurricanes, neighbors gladly several hours, but returned to fi nd his 100 Block of NE 11th Street shared their generators with others. condo burglarized. Many items were Give Me Your Tired, Your A man was in his car when a woman unknown Not now! A woman called police to missing, including his trusty wooden Poor, Your Distracted to him opened his passenger door and took a complain about a neighbor who was stick. This is the second incident in Omni seat next to him. The man later told police: “She possibly stealing her electricity. Police two weeks at this location. Time for an Waiting for the bus after a long, hard day was attractive, so I did not want to kick her out.” discovered an extension cord running iron stick? of work, a woman inadvertently left her A few seconds later, another woman arrived from her apartment to his. The neigh- purse at the busy Omni bus stop, Bis- and sat in the back seat. Finally a third woman bor admitted he had been stealing her Frustrated Salesman? cayne and NE 14th Street. She realized showed up. She actually opened the driver’s electricity, He was promptly arrested. 100 Block NE 69th Street this only after riding on the bus for sev- door and sat on his lap. Ready for a wild Question: Why didn’t the woman Answering the door, no matter where eral minutes. In a panic, the poor woman adventure, the man asked them if they wanted simply unplug the extension cord? you are, can be dangerous. A man returned. Of course the purse was gone. to spend the night at a respectable Boulevard Answer: We’ll never know. opened his door in response to a friendly A witness saw a man take it. This being motel. Insulted, they promptly stole his Rolex knock and was promptly stabbed ten Miami, the man did not turn it in to lost watch and ran off. The man flagged down times. The knife-wielding nutcase ran and found. police in the area, but the women got away. Feedback: [email protected]

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May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 33 A RT & CULTURE Ultimately It’s All About People A new show at MOCA may prompt you to ask: Why is that considered art? By Victor Barrenechea BT Contributor

hen it comes to Miami art, you’ll fi nd no greater mass gathering of people than at

W Photo by Nathan Dappen Art Basel Miami Beach. Thousands fl ock from disparate parts of globe each year to buy, sell, and appreciate art. Last year alone the fair attracted roughly 60,000 visitors, with 250 galleries and some 2000 artists participating. The impact of this spreads far beyond the confi nes of the Miami Beach Convention Center, with dozens of other events orbiting around Basel involving hundreds more galleries and thousands more artists. “It’s a major point of focus in the city,” says Ruba Katrib, assistant curator at North Miami’s Museum of Contem- porary Art (MOCA). But Art Basel is only one of many major fairs that have taken the art world by storm in recent years, and they have radically shifted its Keith Waddington and Mindy Nelson will host events at their home, not at MOCA. traditional practices. “I felt there wasn’t enough examination of this event and its 2006, hosted in his own home a series impact on the city,” Katrib continues. “I of events — performances, improvised felt it would be important to address it in happenings — involving people from his some way.” local community. That was her inspiration for creat- This time Haeg has selected a Coral ing “Convention,” the upcoming show at Gables couple, Keith Waddington and MOCA, in which more than 15 interna- Mindy Nelson, and will be transforming Photo by Dave McKenzie tional artists investigate the signifi cance their living room into a salonlike gather- of art fairs, as well as festivals (art or ing space in which the couple will host otherwise), expos, conventions, and other their own events for their own commu- large-scale public events. “The show is nity. According to Haeg, it’s completely really think- up to Wadding- ing about this ton and Nelson sort of mode Haeg selected Keith Waddington and to decide what of gathering,” Mindy Nelson, and has transformed kind of events Katrib says. their living room, the current contents they’d like to “It’s not a of which he has rearranged at MOCA. host. In the show that has meantime, such defi ned the current parameters.” contents of the Dave McKenzie’s It’s a Date ballot box: He’ll take you out to dinner and The works, she says, are split between couple’s living room are being removed then — who knows? more traditional, object-based works and arranged within the museum by and works that are more situational or Haeg. As the exhibition unfurls, docu- at University of Miami, while Nelson Most museum visitors will be unable to participatory in nature. Ultimately, it is mentation of the various events at their is an ecologist and animal behavior- experience fi rsthand the situation that Haeg an exhibition that explores the nature of Coral Gables home will appear in the ist currently working on contract with has created in the Coral Gables household. human interaction. museum. You’ll fi nd a bulletin board the National Oceanic and Atmospheric The fact that the project takes place pre- The most ambitious participa- with photographs, and a video-screen Administration. Neither is signifi cantly dominantly outside of the confi nes of the tory project of “Convention” is by Los showing footage of these events, as well involved in the art world, which is how museum serves to raise questions about the Angeles artist Fritz Haeg, whose work as interviews with the couple. Haeg wanted it. As he puts it, he looked role of the institution itself. commonly deals with the social relation- Waddington and Nelson were chosen specifi cally for “people who are creative New York performance artist Xavier ships among people. The project has its from a long list of local residents who but are not artists.” Their events will be Cha is presenting her work called roots in a previous work titled Sundown volunteered to take part in Haeg’s proj- invitation-only affairs, and only as public Salon, in which Haeg, from 2001 to ect. Waddington is a professor of biology as the couple chooses to make them. Continued on page 35

34 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 A RT & CULTURE

People given moment, a visitor could artists are more detached and direct with Continued from page 34 step into the museum and fi nd their pieces. Corey McCorkle contrib- Rehearsal Space, which similarly chal- the rehearsal space empty. Cha utes an array of carpet samples from lenges the conventions of what can be has created the possibility for the convention halls of New York City — or should be — shown in a museum. an event that the viewer may hotels. Sean Raspet creates carnival-style Cha’s project consists of a 20-foot by 30- never experience. banners with various “clip-art” images foot wooden dance fl oor that will serve The same concept plays printed on them, while local artist Jim as an active rehearsal space for local heavily in New York artist Drain makes sculptures that mimic the choreographers and dance companies to Dave McKenzie’s work It’s a kind of art-fair booth displays you might develop and practice their routines. Date. This is the fourth time come across at an event like Art Basel. Already 20 dance companies and McKenzie has presented Date. “All the artists,” observes curator

choreographers have booked the space The only object on display is Courtesy of the artist and Daniel Reich Gallery Ruba Katrib, “are pretty much dealing (and the museum is still looking for more a ballot box. Visitors fi ll out with the language and aesthetics of these volunteers to participate in the project). ballots with their name and sorts of events. I think the question most Cha points out the apparent shortage contact information and place Sean Raspet’s Arrangement 38 (Crowds people will be asking is: Why is this of practice spaces in the Miami area, them in the box. Near the end and Power) (detail), vinyl banners, electrical art?” And though she says the tone of the making this something of an altruistic of the exhibition’s run, McK- conduit, zinc-plated chain, 2009. show is playful and humorous, she also gesture toward the local dance communi- enzie will choose at random a adds, “I think that’s an important ques- ty. “I’m just basically creating a space for name from the box and take that person total stranger. “The dinners are really tion to consider.” dancers to rehearse,” says Cha. “I wanted to dinner. Says McKenzie: “For me it’s simple,” says McKenzie, who pays for to open up the museum to people who about the kind of thing that an artwork these meals out of his own pocket, not “Convention” opens May 21 and runs wouldn’t have access to that space.” could do that we can’t maybe do on a at the expense of the museum. “I don’t through September 13 at the Museum By creating a situation in which a normal basis.” promise to be the wittiest conversational- of Contemporary Art, 770 NE 125th St., variety of people utilize the space, Cha Social conventions dictate that you ist, or that we’re going to fall in love, or North Miami. For hours and more infor- calls into question not only the kind of can’t (usually) just pick a random person even that we’re going to be best friends.” mation call 305-893-6211 or visit www. work that can be displayed in a museum, off the streets and invite him or her to Yet the potential for these scenarios is mocanomi.org but also the kind of people who have dinner. Yet in a museum setting, people implicit in the work. access to such facilities. Another inter- line up to place their names in the ballot And while McKenzie takes on social esting aspect of the work is that, at any box for a chance to have dinner with a interaction at a very involved level, other Feedback: [email protected]

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 35 ART & CULTURE ART LISTINGS

WYNWOOD GALLERY WALK & DESIGN DISTRICT www.artnet.com/bgillman. ART + DESIGN NIGHT html EDGE ZONES CONTEMPORARY ART SATURDAY, MAY 9 Call gallery for exhibition 47 NE 25th St., Miami information. 305-303-8852 101/EXHIBIT www.edgezones.org 101 NE 40th St., Miami BAS FISHER INVITATIONAL May 9 through June 9: 305-573-2101 180 NE 39th St., #210, Miami Solo show by Magdiel Aspillaga www.101exhibit.com By appointment: info@ Reception May 9, 8 to 11 p.m. Through May 2: basfi sherinvitational.com “Works” by Charles Pfahl www.basfi sherinvitational. ELITE ART EDITIONS GALLERY May 9 through June 20: “Metal” by Curtis Lafollette com 151 NW 36th St., Miami Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. Through May 9: 305-403-5856 “Out There” by Kathleen www.elitearteditions.com ABBA FINE ART Staples Call gallery for exhibition information. 233 NW 36th St., Miami Reception May 9, 7 to 10 305-576-4278 p.m. ETRA FINE ART www.abbafi neart.com 10 NE 40th St., Miami Through May 29: “Zoe” by Debra Holt BERNICE STEINBAUM 305-438-4383 Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. GALLERY www.etrafi neart.com 3550 N. Miami Ave., Miami Mitzi Pederson, Untitled , cinder blocks and glitter, Call gallery for exhibition information. ALEJANDRA VON HARTZ FINE ARTS 305-573-2700 2134 NW Miami Ct., Miami www.bernicesteinbaumgallery. 2009, at World Class Boxing. FACHE ARTS 305-438-0220 com 750 NE 124th St., North Miami #2 www.alejandravonhartz.net Through May 2: 305-975-6933 Through May 30: “Mostly Mutant” by Edouard Duval Carrie DAVID CASTILLO GALLERY www.fachearts.com “Hablando con la Pared” by Eudenio Espinoza 2234 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. THE CALDWELL/LINFIELD GALLERY AND STUDIO 305-573-8110 8351 NE 8th Ct., Miami www.castilloart.com FREDRIC SNITZER GALLERY AMAYA GALLERY 305-754-2093 May 9 through June 30: 2247 NW 1st Pl., Miami 2033 NW 1st Pl., Miami www.susannacaldwell.com Group show with Adler Guerrier, Aramis Gutierrez, 305-448-8976 917-743-2925 Through May 22: Quisqueya Henriquez, Susan Lee-Chun, Pepe Mar, www.snitzer.com www.amayagallery.com “Exuberant Assemblages and Sculptures Made from Glexis Novoa, Javier Piñón, Leyden Rodriguez- Through May 2: “DISLOCATION” by Timothy Buwalda Call gallery for exhibition information. Florida Wood” by Susanna Caldwell Casanova, Frances Trombly, and Wendy Wischer Reception May 9, 4 to 9 p.m. Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. GALLERY DIET ARNO VALERE ART GALLERY BY RICART 174 NW 23rd St., Miami 3900 NE 1st Ave., Miami CAROL JAZZAR CONTEMPORARY ART DELUXE ART GALLERY 305-571-2288 305-576-5000 158 NW 91st St., Miami Shores 2051 NW 2nd Ave., Miami www.gallerydiet.com www.valerericartgallery.com 305-490-6906 786-200-4971 May 9 through June 6: “Citygarden and Microscope” Call gallery for exhibition information. www.cjazzart.com Call gallery for exhibition information. with Kristopher Benedict and Peter LaBier By appointment: [email protected] Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. ART FUSION Through May 10: DIANA LOWENSTEIN FINE ARTS 1 NE 40th St., Miami “The Drawing Show” with various artists 2043 N. Miami Ave., Miami GARY NADER FINE ART 305-573-5730 May 15 through June 8: 305-576-1804 62 NE 27th St., Miami www.artfusiongallery.com “New Abstraction” with various artists www.dlfi nearts.com 305-576-0256 Through June 24: Reception May 15, 7 to 10 p.m. May 9 through June 6: “Lost Horizon” by Felice Grodin www.garynader.com “Illumination of the Soul” with various artists “Painted” by Katrin Moller Call gallery for exhibition information. Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. CENTER FOR VISUAL COMMUNICATION “2 Girls and a Boy” with Katherine Ordonez, Chottip 541 NW 27th St., Miami Nimla, and Michael Okey HARDCORE ARTS CONTEMPORARY SPACE ART GALLERY AT GOVERNMENT CENTER 305-571-1415 Reception May 9, 7:30 to 10 p.m. 3326 N. Miami Ave., Miami 111 NW 1st St., Suite 625, Miami www.visual.org 305-576-1645 305-375-4634 Through May 21: DIASPORA VIBE GALLERY www.hardcoreartcontemporary.com www.miamidadearts.org “Visionary Photographer” by Clarence John Laughlin 3938 NE 39th St., Miami Through May 16: “Love Stories” with various artists and Call gallery for exhibition information. May 8 through May 9: 305-573-4046 “Fashion Slave” by Claude Guenard “ARTISTS UNDERFOOT” performance art exhibition www.diasporavibe.net Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. ART ROUGE Performances May 8 and 9, 6 to 10 p.m. Through May 21: “Runaway Reaction” with Marlon 46 NW 36th St., Miami Griffi th and Susan Mains HAROLD GOLEN GALLERY 305-448-2060 CHAREST-WEINBERG GALLERY May 24 through June 4: “Off the Wall/Experimental 2294 NW 2nd Ave., Miami www.artrouge.com 250 NW 23rd St., Miami Series” with Carlos Alejandro and Roger Bowes 305-576-1880 Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-292-0411 Reception May 29, 7 to 10 p.m. www.haroldgolengallery.com www.charest-weinberg.com Through May 2: “The Exotic and Lurid Art of Richie ARTFORMZ Through June 6: “Constructions…Deductions and DORSCH GALLERY Fahey” by Richie Fahey 171 NW 23rd St., Miami Reductions” by Thomas B. Bowker 151 NW 24th St., Miami 305-572-0040 305-576-1278 INTERFLIGHT STUDIO GALLERY www.artformz.net CHELSEA GALLERIA www.dorschgallery.com 250 NW 23rd St., Loft 206, Miami Through May 4: “Threesome” with Anja Marais, Alette 2441 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Through May 9: “Brendan, Brandon, & Brenda” with 305-573-1673 Simmons-Jimenez, and Chieko Tanemura 305-576-2950 various artists www.fl ightstudiogallery.com May 9 through June 6: “WELCOME” with Rai Escale, www.chelseagalleria.com May 9 through June 6: “nota bene: Illustrated demons & Through May 8: Sibel Kocabasi, Gisela Savdie, and Guillermo Portieles, Through May 6: allegories, stripped of one religion, culture or narrative, are “Aviation Artists Quartet” with Herve Alexandre, Jo-Ann a solo show by Alette Simmons-Jimenz, and a solo “Pulp” with Elsa Mora, Kate Kretz, Kent Henrickson, cast adrift and, accordingly, fi nd new haunts” with Arlen Lizio, PilotO, and Desiree Bordes show by Donna Haynes Brian O’ Neill, Tina Salveson, Reinerio Tamayo, and Austin, Rene Barge, Ernesto Caivano, Alyssa Phoebus, Through May 31: Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. more Shazia Sikhander, Reeve Schumacher, and Patricia Smith “Taking Flight” by PilotO Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. BAKEHOUSE ART COMPLEX CS GALLERY 561 NW 32nd St., Miami 787 NE 125th St., North Miami DOT FIFTYONE ART SPACE JULIO BLANCO STUDIO 305-576-2828 305-308-6561 51 NW 36th St., Miami 164 NW 20th St., Miami www.bacfl .org www.chirinossanchez.com 305-573-9994 305-534-5737 May 8 through June 1: “Fresh Paint” curated by Lauren Through May 24: www.dotfi ftyone.com www.onemansho.com Wagner with Alain Castoriano, Betty Fleisher, Jaime “Stabbing Hate” by R.E. Sanchez Through June 20: “Pornorama” by Gonzalo Fuenmayor Call gallery for exhibition information. Gil, Patricia Gutierrez, Babette Herschberger, Russell and “timeless…” by Hernán Cédola Sharon, and Alicia Torres, and a group show with DAMIEN B. CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. KELLEY ROY GALLERY various Miami-Dade College, Kendall campus artists 282 NW 36th St., Miami 50 NE 29 St., Miami May 28: BAC Open House 305-573-4949 EDGAR ACE GALLERY 305-447-3888 Reception May 8, 7 to 10 p.m. www.damienb.com 7520 NE 4th Ct., Miami www.kelleyroygallery.com Through May 6: 305-877-2401 Call gallery for exhibition information. BARBARA GILLMAN GALLERY “Broader Horizon” by Aline Jansen May 9: “Artist For Sale” by Max Emerson and The 4141 NE 2nd Ave. #202, Miami ”Broader Horizon will be held at a special location: Physioc Twins 305-573-1920 618 SW 8th St., Miami Reception May 9, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Continued on page 37

36 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 ART & CULTURE

Art Listings MIAMI ART SPACE PRAXIS INTERNATIONAL ART 244 NW 35th St., Miami 2219 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Continued from page 36 305-438-9002 305-573-2900 www.miamiartspace.com www.praxis-art.com KEVIN BRUK GALLERY Call gallery for exhibition information. Call gallery for exhibition information. 2249 NW 1st Pl., Miami 305-576-2000 MIAM-DADE COLLEGE, CENTER GALLERY PUZZLEMENT GALLERY www.kevinbrukgallery.com 300 NE 2nd Ave., 81 NW 24th St., Miami Through June 11: Solo show by Richard Butler Bldg. 1, Room 1365, Miami 917-929-8559 Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. 305-237-3696 www.puzzlementart.com www.mdc.edu Ongoing show with Kevin Brady, Manuel Carbonell, KUNSTHAUS MIAMI Call gallery for exhibition information. Nichole Chimenti, Carter Davis, Stephen Gamson, 3312 N. Miami Ave., Miami Raquel Glottman, Jim Herbert, Jennifer Kaiser, Alex 305-438-1333 MIAMI INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF ART AND Paiva Lopez, Andy Piedilato, Tomy F. Trujillo, Jonathan www.kunsthaus.org.mx DESIGN “Depoe” Villoch, and Giancarlo Zavala Through May 30: “Refl ejando” by Oscar Aguirre 1501 Biscayne Blvd., Miami Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. Kate Gilmore, Double Dutch, video 305-428-5700 SPINELLO GALLERY www.mymiu.com 531 NE 82nd Terr., Miami LEITER GALLERY still, 2004, at Locust Projects. Call gallery for exhibition information. 786-271-4223 6900 Biscayne Blvd., Miami www.spinellogallery.com 305-389-2616 MARIO FLORES GALLERY MUSEO VAULT Call gallery for exhibition information. Call gallery for exhibition information. 12502 NE 8th Ave., North Miami 346 NW 29th St., Miami 561-201-2053 305-571-1175 STASH GALLERY LOCUST PROJECTS www.mariofl oresgallery.com www.museovault.com 162 NE 50 Terr., Miami. 155 NE 38th St., Miami Through May 25: Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-992-7652 305-576-8570 “EVANGELIZATION” by Mario Flores www.myspace.com/stashgallery www.locustprojects.org OUR HOUSE WEST OF WYNWOOD May 9 through June 9: “P(ART)Y” by Aholsniffsglue May 9 through June 28: MIAMI CENTER FOR THE PHOTGRAPHIC ARTS 3100 NW 7th Ave., Miami Reception May 9, 7 to midnight “By Any Means” Kate Gilmore 1601 SW 1st St., Miami 305-490-2976 Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. 305-649-9575 www.oh-wow.com STEVE MARTIN STUDIO www.mcpagallery.com Through May 9: 66 NE 40th St., Miami LUIS ADELANTADO GALLERY Call gallery for exhibition information. “Make it Rain” by Scott Campbell 305-484-1491 98 NW 29th St., Miami Reception May 9, 8 to midnight www.stevemartinfi neart.com 305-438-0069 MIAMI ART GROUP GALLERY Call gallery for exhibition information. www.luisadelantadomiami.com 126 NE 40th St., Miami PANAMERICAN ART PROJECTS Through May 31: “Homeless Boy” by Darío Villalba 305-576-2633 2450 NW 2nd Ave., Miami TWENTY TWENTY PROJECTS www.miamiartgroup.com 305-573-2400 2020 NW Miami Ct., Miami LYLE O. REITZEL GALLERY Through June 1 www.panamericanart.com 786-217-7683 2441 NW 2nd Ave., Miami “Wake Up Your Walls!” with James Kitchens, Jeff Through May 23: www.twentytwentyprojects.com 305-573-1333 League, Tom Rossetti, Gail Taylor, Shawn McNulty, “The Mystery of Migrations” by Carlos Estévez May 9 through June 6: Solo show by David Rohn www.artnet.com/reitzel.html Hessam, Goli Mahallati, and Gregory Deane “Diptychs: One Lens, Two Visions” with Gory and Reception May 9, 7 to midnight Through May 30: Through July 1: Adrian Lopez Group show with various artists “How Surreal Life Can Be” by Hector Armendariz Reception May 9, 6 to 9 p.m. Continued on page 38

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 37 ART & CULTURE

Art Listings www.mocanomi.org FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY Through June 27: Continued from page 37 FROST ART MUSEUM Solo show by Luis Gispert 11200 SW 8th St., Miami UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROJECTS SPACE 305-348-0496 THE MARGULIES COLLECTION 2200 NW 2nd Ave., Miami http://thefrost.fi u.edu/ 591 NW 27th St., Miami 305-284-2542 Through May 10: 305-576-1051 Call gallery for exhibition information. BFA show with various artists www.margulieswarehouse.com Through August 16: Call gallery for exhibition information. UNTITLED 2144 “Because I Say So” sculpture from the 2144 NE 2nd Ave., Miami Scholl Collection THE RUBELL FAMILY COLLECTION 305-576-2112, www.untitled2144.com Through September 16: 95 NW 29th St., Miami Call gallery for exhibition information. “Genetic Portraits” by Nela Ochoa 305-573-6090 www.rubellfamilycollection.com WALLFLOWER GALLERY LOWE ART MUSEUM, UNIVERSITY OF Call for operating hours and exhibit information. 10 NE 3rd St., Miami MIAMI Through May 30: 305-579-0069 1301 Stanford Dr., Coral Gables “30 AMERICANS” with Nina Chanel Abney, John www.wallfl owergallery.com 305-284-3535 Bankston, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Mark Bradford, Iona myspace.com/wallfl owergallery www.lowemuseum.org Rozeal Brown, Nick Cave, Robert Colescott, Noah Call gallery for exhibition information. Through June 14: “UM Students and MFA Davis, Leonardo Drew, Renée Green, David Hammons, Exhibition” with various artists and “Naturell” Barkley L. Hendricks, Rashid Johnson, Glenn Ligon, WHITE VINYL SPACE by Carsten Meier Kalup Linzy, Kerry James Marshall, Rodney McMillian, 3322 NW 2nd Ave., Miami Wangechi Mutu, William Pope.L, Gary Simmons, 305-776-1515 MIAMI ART MUSEUM Xaviera Simmons, Lorna Simpson, Shinique Smith, www.whitevinylspace.com 101 W. Flagler St., Miami Jeff Sonhouse, Henry Taylor, Hank Willis Thomas, Call gallery for exhibition information. 305-375-3000 Patricia Smith, Garland (detail), ink and Mickalene Thomas, Kara Walker, Carrie Mae Weems, www.miamiartmuseum.org Kehinde Wiley, and Purvis Young WOLFGANG ROTH & PARTNERS, FINE ART Through September 13: watercolor on paper, 16-minute loop, 2008, 201 NE 39th St., Miami “NeoHooDoo: Art for a Forgotten Faith” with at the Dorsch Gallery. WORLD CLASS BOXING 305-576-6960 various artists Debra and Dennis Scholl Collection www.wrpfi neart.com Through October 11: “Convention” with Julieta Aranda, Fia Backström, 170 NW 23rd St., Miami Through May 16:“BERLIN - NEW YORK - MIAMI” by “Recent Acquisitions” with various artists Xavier Cha, Anne Daems & Kenneth Andrew Mroczek, 305-438-9908 Freddy Reitz Fritz Haeg, Corey McCorkle, Dave McKenzie, My www.worldclassboxing.org/ MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Barbarian, Christodoulos Panayiotou, Sean Raspet, May 9 through June 1: MUSEUM & COLLECTION EXHIBITS 770 NE 125th St., North Miami Superfl ex and Jens Haaning, and Miami’s Jim Drain, “I think I was looking at that before” by Mitzi Pederson 305-893-6211 Gean Moreno, and Bert Rodriguez Reception May 9, 7 to 10 p.m. CIFO (Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation) www.mocanomi.org 1018 N. Miami Ave., Miami Through May 10: MOCA AT GOLDMAN WAREHOUSE Compiled by Victor Barrenechea 305-455-3380 “Abstract Cinema” with various artists 404 NW 26th St., Miami Send listings, jpeg images, and events information to www.cifo.org May 21 through September 13: 305-893-6211 [email protected] Call gallery for exhibition information. HOME SERVICES

38 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 ART & CULTURE Culture Briefs so. All four of the master’s sons pursued May 15-17. An eye-popping number of College north campus (11380 NW 27th musical careers, and one, Carl Phillipp specimens will be on display, experts Ave.). Pianist Adriana Quesada performs Emanuel, managed to make a name for will speak, raffl es will be held. Supplies Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17. Danc- himself. On Saturday, May 16, tribute and plants for sale will be also avail- ing to A Chorus Line will be the talented will be paid to father and son by the able. Tickets are $7. Hours are 9:00 a.m. young ladies of Conchita Espinoza Acad- Miami Bach Society Orchestra at St. to 5:00 p.m. Call 305-247-5727 or go to emy, directed by Danella Bedford. The Martha’s Church (9301 Biscayne Blvd.). [email protected]. program begins at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are Don Oglesby conducts the orchestra. In $20. Students and those under 8 or over addition, solo pianists Paul Posnak and Got a Question? Here’s the 55 are $5. Call 305-238-2729. Shelly Berg (UM music school dean) Answer will perform the elder Bach’s keyboard Worried about healthcare? Debts? The concerti. The music begins at 7:30 p.m. mortgage? Then get yourself to Unity Tickets are $10-$20. Go to www.saintm- You Think That You Shall on the Bay (411 NE 21st St.) on Satur- artha.tix.com or call 1-800-595-4849. Never See… day, May 16. That’s where more than 35 Hearing about a plant like the Royal public and private institutions will join Poinciana or the Silver Tabebuia may forces for a free community-resource fair seem like a call from some far-away to help the many South Floridians who place, but Fairchild Tropical Botanic now fi nd themselves in need. The fair Garden (10901 Old Cutler Rd.) is here to will benefi t those who are facing foreclo- tell you otherwise at its annual Tropi- sure, bankruptcy, or immigration woes; cal Flowering Tree Society Show and those struggling with credit-card debt Sale May 9 and 10 from 9:30 a.m. to or who are in need of loan modifi cation, 4:30 p.m. You can chat with experts and food stamps, unemployment assistance, Long Hair, Beads, Sandals, vendors about trees, vines, and shrubs or mental health services; those who are Incense — Far Out! on display and for sale. Tickets good for uninsured or need health screenings for Growing nostalgic for a little peace, love, entire garden are $20, $15 for seniors, high blood pressure, diabetes, or HIV/ and happiness? You can fi nd it, along $10 for children 6-13, and free for AIDS. Whew! It’ll be a one-stop shop for with hundreds — no, thousands — of younger children and members. Discount South Florida’s Own all your problem-solving needs. The fair others at the 6th Annual Greynolds coupons are available on the Fairchild runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For Park Love-In (17530 W. Dixie Hwy.) on Website. Call 305-667-1651 or visit www. Cirque info go to www.unityonthebay.org or see Sunday, May 17. Mitch Ryder and the Let your family’s imagination fl y into a fairchildgarden.com. page 6 in this issue. Detroit Wheels will be groovin’ with fantastical jungle with Cirque Dreams their chart-topping, 1960s rock and roll. Ahoy, Mom! Jungle Fantasy. Behold an international There’ll also be a costume contest (think cast of 28, including acrobats, gymnasts, Bike Riders Unite! Make points with mom the day before Haight-Ashbury), vintage VW bugs and contortionists, strongmen, balancing art- If you’ve ever ridden around Miami on a Mother’s Day by taking her out on the buses, and food for the whole family. ists, and singers. The production company bike, you know what we’re talking about. water for a glorious boat tour, his- Also performing: Rewind, Blackstar, originated right here in South Florida in It’s nuts! Make your presence known. torically helmed by the esteemed Paul Brokedown, Miami Rock Ensemble. It’s 1993, and is not to be confused with Cirque Stand up for your right to share the road George, on Saturday, May 9. He’ll show all free (naturally!), though there’s the du Soleil. Our homegrown troupe brings downtown at the free City of Miami- and tell her about colorful and notorious usual Greynolds parking charge. The its latest creation from Broadway to the sponsored Bike Miami Days on Sunday, Stiltsville, those houses elevated above love fl ows from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adrienne Arsht Center for the Perform- May 17. The city will block traffi c along Biscayne Bay, and other rich trinkets of Call 305-945-3425. ing Arts (1300 Biscayne Blvd.) May 12-17. stretches of Flagler Street and S. Miami Miami’s coastal history, like the Cape Tickets are $25-$62. Shows begin at 8:00 Avenue for this monthly event. Become Florida Lighthouse, and Key Biscayne. p.m. Matinees at 2:00 p.m. The fi nal per- part of a growing movement to encourge The Play’s the Thing Sponsored by the Historical Museum of formance is at 7:30 pm. Call 305-949-6722 Miami and other cities to create more The precocious young artists at Miami’s Southern Florida, the tour leaves Bay- or visit www.arshtcenter.org. bike paths and amenities for two-wheel- New World School of the Arts (25 NE side Marketplace (401 Biscayne Blvd.) ers. Power to the bike! From 9:00 a.m. to 2nd St.) take center stage at the conser- at 10:00 a.m., returning at 1:00 p.m. Ad- 3:00 p.m. Visit bikemiamiblog.wordpress. vatory’s 19th annual New Playwrights vance reservations and payment required. Orchid Obsession com for parking, bike route, bike rentals, Festival May 21-24. Two plays are The beauty and sheer exoticism of Tickets are $39 for HMSF members, $44 lunch spots, and all things bike. featured, written by and performed by for nonmembers. Call 305-375-1621. orchids have captivated, even obsessed, NWSA students, in evening performanc- generations of expert gardeners. But Shining Young Stars of the es at 7:30 p.m. Weekend matinees at 1:00 Like Father (J.S.Bach), there are many beautiful varieties that and 4:00 p.m. Admission is $5 to each just about anyone can grow at home. Symphony Like Son (C.P.E. Bach) play. Call 305-237-7855 or visit www. Learn about these mysterious plants As its season comes to an end, the South nwsa.mdc.edu. Imagine growing up in the shadow of (including their ingenious pollination Florida Youth Symphony performs your famous father who just happens methods) at the annual Redland Inter- its Shining Stars concert, including to be musical genius Johann Sebastian national Orchid Show, one of the largest guest jazzman Joe Donato in a tribute Compiled by BT intern Brian Horowitz Bach. The offspring, you’d think, would in the U.S. The county’s Fruit and Spice to Duke Ellington Sunday, May 17 in wisely fi nd another line of work. Not Park (24801 SW 187th Ave.) plays host the Lehman Theatre at Miami-Dade Feedback: [email protected]

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 39 PARK PATROL Green on Blue Three waterfront parks offer tranquility amid the traffi c By Jim W. Harper dogs have taken over the ditch. BT Contributor Martell Park is a hardly a blip on the sidewalk, but it makes for Miami’s ometimes you open the fridge and sole dog park on the water. Only a see nothing, even when it’s full of slice of bay water is visible owing to Sfood. But look again with new eyes bridges on either side that converge into and you might fi nd a tasty meal. a single highway island just east of the A similar thing happens when ar- Harper BT photos by Jim W. park. But from the seawall, dogs can see riving or leaving the City of Miami themselves in the water and watch their on Interstate 195 or 36th Street along refl ection reverberate as needlefi sh sprint Biscayne Bay. You probably see nothing away. The height of the seawall, however, but water and condos, but your periph- means that they can’t get in the water. eral vision may fi nd some unexpected Missing from the dog park is a fresh- patches of green. water source and other doggie amenities. This hidden-in-plain-view waterfront In one corner is a strange, permanent greenway sits in the shadows of the hutch marked as a chlorine station, condominium known as Blue, a 35-story which appears to treat storm water drain- refl ective building designed by Arquitec- ing into the bay. Melito says existing tonica and shoehorned in between I-195 fresh-water spigots were removed in and NE 36th Street as it approaches the 2007. He also complains that the new Interstate toward Miami Beach. As with benches in the park are “anti-social” be- many public spaces in Miami, this one cause of their placement, and visitors can spins stories of great potential, neglect, Magnolia Park: Great views, kiddie soccer heaven, direct water access. be seen sitting on the ground near the and a partial resurrection. The waterfront here is composed of within walking distance. To the east, the it for $1 per year from the three mini parks trisected by the cause- Julia Tuttle Causeway snakes across the Florida Department of way and 36th Street and operated by the bay to Miami Beach. The cars whizzing Transportation. A 2007 City of Miami, although there is some on and off the highway make the area letter from FDOT, provid- confusion concerning its ownership of decidedly pedestrian-unfriendly. ed by Sean-Paul Melito, a one of them. The parks mainly serve the The smallest of the three parks has member of the city’s parks residents and vagrants of Edgewater and, created the biggest fuss. Blue’s backyard and recreation advisory in particular, the condominium commu- on the bay, Martell Park, has crisp signs board, states that the land nities of Charter Club, Blue, and Miami from the City of Miami that designate it was an FDOT-owned Bay Club. To the west, the Taco Bell as an offi cial dog park. The park may be drainage ditch that would and Denny’s on Biscayne Boulevard are temporary, as the City of Miami rents “no longer be available for use by the public.” Melito claims that a city building MARTELL, MAGNOLIA, AND STEARNS PARKS permit requires Blue, not FDOT, to maintain the Park Rating park as public open space. Melito and other dog- NE 39th St walkers protested the park’s impending closure and Magnolia Biscayne Bay at I-195 Park garnered the support of city

NE 6th Ave Miami Commissioner MarC Sar-

N Bayshore Dr Dr Bayshore Bayshore N N NE 38th St Hours: Sunrise to sunset noff. Melito says Sarnoff Picnic tables: Yes helped make the park signs Martell Park: It’s doggie heaven, and though Stearns Barbecues: No and other improvements small, it’s facing big problems. Park Picnic pavilions: Yes appear in the summer of NE 37th St 195 (Magnolia) 2008. Offi cial documents from the City of entrance. But he also praises the park as 195 195 Tennis courts: No Miami indicate that the park is fulfi lling a “great social place.” Everyone and their

NE 6th Ave NE 7th Ave

NE 5th Ave 195 Athletic fi elds: Yes its destiny. The May 2007 “Miami Parks dog seem to know each other. Martell

Ave Ave Park (Magnolia) and Public Spaces Master Plan” desig- The main issue confronting Martell Night lighting: No nates Martell Park as a future dog park. Park and the other two adjacent parks are NE 36th St Playground: No (The city’s Website has an outdated link the homeless. A well-publicized group Special features: Dog to the plan, but it can be found at www. of sex offenders have been mandated to park (Martell) miamigov.com/Planning/pages/master_ plans/Parks_PublicSpaces.asp) Today Continued on page 41

40 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 PARK PATROL

Green for his diminutive soccer players. A few on StimulusWatch.org. Continued from page 40 adults have set up camp nearby to watch. “Stabilization” probably Vela’s only complaint is that some dog means an extension of live underneath the bridges of the Julia owners do not clean up after their pets, the seawall on either Tuttle Causeway (Miami’s version of and his kids have to play on the same side of the park. At a Bridges of Madison County?), within grass. minimum, a net needs easy walking distance of the parks. The The shoreline of Magnolia Park to be installed to cap- low bridges alongside these parks are lit- is one of the few in Miami that is not ture and remove trash tered with sleeping bags and unsanitary blocked by rocks or a seawall, and from the water. Some- implements. Residents say that vagrants during one of my visits, a father and thing must be done often sleep here. daughter were busy studying snails and before this park earns The largest park, Magnolia Park, is other objects along the shore. The tide a “New Jersey Toxic three open acres with gorgeous Beach” award. views of the bay. Offi cially The other water- known as E. Albert Pallot Park, Martell Park is a hardly a blip on the front park among the its main afternoon users are trio, Stearns Park, is a sidewalk, but it makes for Miami’s sole soccer teams. Adults congre- leftover piece of land gate around 7:00 p.m., and an dog park on the water, and everyone useful only to residents informal group of fi ve- to ten- and their dog seem to know each other. along NE 37th Street. year-olds practices at 6:00 p.m. Everyone else must risk on Monday and Wednesday, ac- their lives by running cording to Francisco Vela, coach across the Julia Tuttle, Stearns Park: Unless you live next door, you’ll of the team he calls “Miami Central.” He has also brought in copious amounts of and it’s not worth it. I need to dodge traffi c to enter. says a group of older children play on litter. Stuck in the mounds of seaweed have heard that this park Tuesdays and Thursdays. was a large, dead gull. is popular with street walkers — and no, I Maybe it’s the bay breeze that cancels “The kids love to play here,” says The trashiness of this shore has did not even try to confi rm that. out the roaring engines and the water that Vela. “It’s an excellent location. Beautiful.” prompted activists to urge approval Although these three parks are calms the spirit. To the passing motorist, On this afternoon he has set up bright of the $1.2 million Albert Pallot Park located along a very busy highway, when nothing is here, but to the neighborhood orange and green boundaries and goals Shoreline Stabilization Project listed you’re here, you don’t feel the road rage. soccer player or dog walker, these small

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 41 COLUMNISTS: KIDS AND THE CITY Love Is All There Is It may sound corny but it’s not, especially for families By Jenni Person during which we luxuri- relationship with her ex and together BT Contributor ated in each other and be present for every important moment our togetherness. All in her daughter’s life. I wish everyone or those of us parenting with this strengthens our were so fortunate. She is an amazing a partner, there is always that co-parenting experi- woman I’m proud to call my friend. Fnucleus to tend to, the heart beat- ence and informs the ing at the center that keeps it all fl ow- love we share with Attention Young Filmmakers ing smoothly and cooperatively. And our kids today. It’s so Miami Light Project has partnered with there are all kinds of variations on those important that they see Nike to give 20 high school students the partnerships — the old-fashioned nuclear us as human, imperfect, opportunity to create fi lms about sports, model of a partnered mom and dad, or but loving — of them social change, and their community in the more contemporary dad and dad, and of each other — so the Third Annual Filmmakers Bootcamp. mom and mom, mom and dad living someday they can buoy This summer South Florida teens be- separately, mom and grandma, or mom the lives of their own tween the ages of 14 and 18 are eligible and her husband and dad and his girl- relationships and families with love — support a relationship and kids, because for the four-week camp. friend — but they all need to be nurtured which, in the end, is all any mortal has. through all these years, all this love, Students will learn production, as we and our families grow and evolve Because I am such a goofy fan of and this solid commitment to family, screenwriting, script development, edit- and mark milestones. love, I was inspired recently when my David and Damian in fact cannot ing, and post-production aspects of fi lm I like to be really honest when I talk friend David, a Morningside dad and legally split up. They aren’t extended from South Florida-based fi lmmakers about my relationship. As of today, I am owner of a Biscayne Corridor business the same rights as hetero couples and Gina Cunningham, John Huynh, and one of those disgustingly lucky people producing promotional items and em- families in Florida, so they can’t legally Rhonda Mitrani. At the conclusion of the who soberly experienced love at fi rst sight broidered and screen-printed wearables be a family, and they can’t legally get camp, the students will create short fi lms and has so far lived happily ever after. But (www.igotagoodcatch.com), posted on out of it either. Same-gender couples that will be screened for the public. make no mistake, my life pretty much Facebook the celebration of his 20-year and families can build legal bond to The focus of this year’s Filmmak- sucks in every other way. My partner and I partnership with the love of his life, an extent, but in the end, the State of ers Bootcamp is to give kids the oppor- have worked very hard for what we’ve had Damian. David called it a “virtual an- Florida still does not recognize their tunity to tell stories about how sports the past 14 years. We can be screaming niversary party.” legal rights as parents or partners. can inspire social change and ignite a ugly words at each other in the morning, I was also struck by the length of But obviously sometimes split up community. and by evening we’re both apologizing. time David and Damian had been to- we must, and thus I’m equally inspired The camp will run from June 15 to Everything is not always smooth; there are gether before becoming parents. I spoke by the co-parenting efforts of my July 10. Miami Light Project is cur- always going to be long-term issues. But to David about this recently, and in friend Li-Mor, who works hard and rently accepting applications for up to 20 acceptance is the key to living with another addition to agreeing with me that living with humility to raise her daughter students. Full scholarships are available, human being. so much life with your partner enhances in partnership with her ex-husband. I and lunch will be provided for each Our years together have helped to parenting, he also talked about how turned into a puddle of sentimentality camper. Transportation vouchers will short-hand the communication process, expanding into a family really solidifi es when she described making a Passover also be available based on need. Applica- which is why I’m grateful we had the the relationship. seder for herself, her daughter, her ex, tions are due Friday, May 15. For more luxury of waiting eight years before It’s much easier to walk away — and his father. “We’re a lot of people,” information, please call Miami Light having a baby. During that time, we and later regret splitting up over some- she said in response to my question Project at 305-576-4350. To download an developed our mutual household culture, thing that seems completely stupid in why she didn’t take up an invitation to application, visit www.miamilightpro- coping mechanisms, problem-solving hindsight — when there isn’t the life of a colleague’s house at Passover. I real- ject.com and click on “downloads.” tools, nonverbal communications signals, a family involved. Luckily, David and ize she’s one of the fortunate divorced, and vocabulary. Those were also years Damian apply the hard work it takes to single moms who is able to maintain a Feedback: [email protected]

42 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COLUMNISTS: YOUR GARDEN Falling Leaves? Must Be Springtime It’s not about autumn — it’s about drought By Jeff Shimonski At Jungle Island I’ve recently begun BT Contributor planting a tropical tree group that I had very little experience with, and is not deciduous. ately I’ve been surprised to overhear These are the tropical conifers. We’re ac- people remarking that they have customed to temperate conifers like cypress, Lnever seen so many trees without pine, and the Douglas fi r, but this is a very foliage, and perhaps the trees were actu- diverse group of trees, and even though they BT photo by Jeff Shimonski ally dying. A couple of times I stopped to look very temperate (at least to me), some explain that many species of tropical trees are quite tropical. They are closely related to are deciduous, just like temperate trees in the cycads, having cones instead of fl owers. the winter, and if you look closer, the trees The bald cypress trees at the original Parrot are all in various stages of fl owering. Jungle are conifers, and we did grow some Tropical and subtropical deciduous trees Podocarpus, but I had no previous experi- drop their leaves not in response to changes ence with these other species from tropical in seasonal temperatures or climate but areas like Malaysia or New Caledonia. to seasonal rainfall patterns. The foliage Within the past few months, I planted is dropped to conserve water and prevent a very attractive Araucaria species (like death of the tree from drought. It can occur the Norfolk Island pine) with bluish foliage, any time of year. This past winter was very an Agathis species from New Zealand, dry, and trees without supplemental irriga- The attractive fl ower of Bombax ceiba. and a Nageia species from Southeast Asia. tion dropped most or all of their foliage. The Agathis and the Nageia are both trees Even in the wild you can see differences Tabebuia and the orange Geiger, to name light green and looks like an oversize lady that can grow quite large in their native in the timing and duration of leafl essness but a few. beetle with a translucent shell. This species habitats, although much more slowly than caused by variations in the height of the So drought is sometimes a good thing. only lays its eggs on the orange Geiger in the Norfolk Island pine. The foliage is water table or the soil conditions. You can During rainy winters here in South Florida, clusters on a single leaf. attractive, with succulent-like leaves. The also notice differences in how property deciduous fl owering trees can produce foli- When the eggs hatch, the larvae, new growth comes out in “spurts” with a owners irrigate (or irrigate too much) by the age and fl owers at the same time. This can which look like lady beetle larvae only lighter color that contrasts attractively with amounts of foliage on the same species of also occur in highly irrigated landscapes. larger and slimy, begin to eat the leaf, the older foliage. For those who would like tree in the same neighborhood. Sometimes the fl owers get lost amid the leaving only the veins. As the larvae a more “temperate” looking landscape, But spring is a wonderful time of year foliage and cannot be visually appreciated grow they quickly spread to other leaves tropical conifers like Podocarpus and those to look for color in our trees! Even the — or pollinated, as the pollinators can’t and can eventually defoliate the tree. previously mentioned will give the desired most plant-challenged person can’t help fi nd them. Give these plants a chance to I have learned to recognize the damage look. These particular conifers also grow but notice the brilliant yellow-fl owered dry out and they will give you a nice show when the larvae fi rst hatch (a cluster of well in alkaline soil conditions, meaning Tabebuias along our roadways. There are at the end of the dry season. small tiny holes in a new leaf) and I just little or no fertilizer will be needed. trees in fl ower everywhere, and with our Speaking of the orange-fl owered pull off the entire leaf with all of the newly notorious traffi c jams, we have plenty of Geiger, I saw at Jungle Island that the hatched larvae and drop it onto the ground. Jeff Shimonski is an ISA-certifi ed munic- time to look out our car windows to enjoy newly emerged canopy of foliage on these The larvae then die without spreading back ipal arborist, director of horticulture at them. I’ve been noticing wonderful fl ower- small trees was under attack by Geiger onto the tree. No spraying and no expense. Jungle Island, and principal of Tropical ing specimens of Bauhinia with the two tortoise beetles, as it is most years. It’s a I’ve never seen Geiger tortoise beetles Designs of Florida. Contact him at jeff@ lobed leaves and purple fragrant fl owers, shame, because the new foliage is a light- on any of the other Geiger tree species, tropicaldesigns.com. the spiny trunked Ceiba, the waxy fl owers green color that really shows off the bright although I’m sure they occasionally dine of Bombax, the many species and colors of orange of the fl owers. The beetle is usually on them as well. Feedback: [email protected]

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 43 COLUMNISTS: PAWSITIVELY PETS A Primer on Puppies, Part 2 Choosing a puppy — and raising one you can live with By Lisa Hartman The fi rst rule is to start small. Do not give BT Contributor him the whole house in which to eliminate (and possibly to wreck). Start small, using all it the Obama Effect. Or more ac- crate- or area-training fi rst. Let the puppy curately, the Malia-and-Sasha Effect. earn freedom gradually. The same should CThe White House arrival of the na- be said for your own expectations in gener- tion’s First Puppy has sparked intense interest al. Start small. Think small. Do not expect in Portuguese water dogs specifi cally, and in too much and you will not be disappointed. puppies more generally. Let’s imagine that You have to work with what you have, and you’ve caught the fever, and now you have what you are capable of. He is just a baby your new puppy. Wonderful! But what next? dog acting like a baby dog, trying to make This month we’ll discuss some pointers on a way for himself. what to do and defi nitely what not to do with The same can be said for socializing. your new family member, that four-legged Yes, we want a highly social dog that we little bundle of joy. can, say, travel anywhere with at anytime. First, however, I would like to ad- But you don’t have to overwhelm the dress something I left out of last month’s puppy with people and strange objects all column (“A Primer on Puppies,” April the time. Invite some friendly people over, 2009). That is papers. Those magical take simple walks around the block and papers. Every week someone will tell me meet the neighbors. Watch the local chil- that their puppy “has papers.” That they dren play on their skateboards from your sought out a dog with “papers.” That window, to start. Same with the vacuum the puppy store must have good stock cleaner and other household appliances. because the puppy came with “papers.” Let the puppy hear them turned on from a “He has his papers, Lisa.” also go to breeder Websites to copy family the other dogs in the lineage anyway. And distance fi rst so as not to startle him. To this day, not one person who trees. You can also get a limited registra- importantly, they don’t guarantee health Over the next two weeks, gradually bought a dog “with papers” can tell me tion on dogs if they look enough like a or temperament. Health is something take your dog to explore new areas on what they mean or signify when I ask them. purebred. For example, Jay-J, my boldly the breeder screens for separately, and a walks, to see new appliances and get a Yet they are very happy and impressed spotted Dalmatian, is clearly a Dalmatian quality breeder only breeds her healthiest little closer to them, to meet new people, they have them. Well, frankly, papers and can thus and nicest dogs, especially friendly men and children, do not add up to much, and certainly do receive a “lim- which also who will seem more friendly if they are not mean your puppy will be a genius or ited registra- Bottom line for the average pet owner: conform physi- tossing or handing treats to the dog. housebreak faster, no matter what the cost. tion,” meaning The only thing “offi cial papers” are good cally to the From the beginning of your dog Technically, real papers signify that he could do for is to lay them on the fl oor to help breed standard. ownership, you should establish yourself the parents of the puppy were purebreds AKC sports She will have as important to the puppy. You should house-train the dog. and are registered with the American like agility. available for be the reason for all things good in his Kennel Club (AKC). That’s it. But many Bottom you copies of life: walks, play, and of course food. Be people do not know that. They get a line for the the dog parents’ there to feed your dog at scheduled meal certifi cate from their local pet shop, and average pet owner: The only thing papers health tests — hip dysplasia, eye tests, and times. Do not leave him to free feed at they believe they now have offi cial papers. are good for is to lay them on the fl oor to so on. his leisure. As with people, food is a big Or maybe the puppy store simply makes help house-train the dog. Papers won’t help But now that your puppy is here, we up phony AKC papers. Many pet shops you if you’re not a breeder or don’t know need to make him a good canine citizen. Continued on page 45

44 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 COLUMNISTS: PAWSITIVELY PETS

Puppies One of the funniest parts of training different from what I tell them to do with of humor. Remember to start small and Continued from page 44 is when I tell people what I went through their new pups! No, I’m a big advocate of to have limited expectations. Then you practicing what I preach. And can build little successes one day at a resource to a dog, and a shiny bowl on my puppy is still a baby herself, time. Eventually you’ll think as much of the fl oor should not receive the credit for As with people, food is a big resource and will do puppy things, and your new puppy as you do the adult dog giving it to him. You should. she came with her own set of you had before him. Maybe even more! to a dog, and a shiny bowl on the fl oor Prepare his food for him, and if he problems after living in a bad has learned a cue such as “sit,” ask him to should not receive the credit for giving situation. So it may go faster for Lisa Hartman is head dog trainer for perform the behavior before you feed him. it to him. You should. me to resolve things, but I still Pawsitively Pets. You can reach her at Many dogs benefi t from a “Nothing in life have to do the work! [email protected] or is free” approach to all things. They will In the end, puppies are in www.pawsitivelypetsonline.com. learn to look to you and make you happy with my puppy Saffy. As if I am going to fact a lot of work, but they are worth it if fi rst — before they get what they want. do something with my dog that is wildly you can retain your wits and your sense Feedback: [email protected]

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 45 COLUMNISTS: HARPER’S ENVIRONMENT The Ocean’s Most Fearsome Predators No, it’s not sharks — it’s homo sapiens By Jim W. Harper The data tells us that Florida leads BT Contributor the world in shark attacks. The good news is that the vast majority of attacks hat’s the one word you don’t are not deadly, and they are concentrated want to hear at the beach? in the state’s northeastern quadrant (be WNo, it’s not what you think. careful in Daytona Beach). “Police!” In 2003 a police SUV ran over According to the International Shark and killed a French tourist sunbathing Attack File, the Florida Keys has not on Miami Beach. If you were thinking had a fatal shark attack since 1952 and “shark,” you should know that no tourist Miami-Dade since 1961, although Bro- in Miami has ever died from a shark ward registered a fatality in 2001. Both attack. In fact there has never been a of these fatalities involved scuba divers, confi rmed death by shark in Miami. as did a fatality last year in the Bahamas, Peter Benchley, the creator of Jaws, where diving expeditions feed sharks. spent his later years fi ghting to save Shark-feeding is banned in Florida. sharks. I saw him speak about shark including their inhabitants from the runs a popular charter-fi shing operation What’s the total number of shark conservation at the University of Miami microscopic to the intimidating, provide and claims to be the world’s leading shark attacks in Miami-Dade during the past shortly before he died in 2006. Sharks clean drinking water. Insects pollinate fi sherman. Sportfi shing is not the main century? Ten. Fatalities? One. What’s the had become the victim, he realized, and our crops; animals are our main source enemy of sharks (industrial fi shing is), but number of attacks in Florida from the man had become the jaws of death. of protein. It’s the simple circle of life killing sharks for sport gives the impres- great white, the shark portrayed in Jaws? Every year some 100 million wild that makes each species valuable. sion that there are many to spare. Zero. More facts: Most attacks occur sharks are killed by man. How many Sharks are valued for their fi ns. At the other end of the spectrum are on surfers. Alligator attacks in Florida men are killed annually by sharks? Shark-fi n soup is a delicacy in Chinese shark conservationists, and South Flor- are less common but more deadly. More About ten. The real difference, how- culture, and demand for shark fi ns has ida is home to many of the world’s best. people are killed annually by dogs, but ever, is that the human population and skyrocketed as East Asian countries The granddaddy of shark conservation those attacks don’t make the news. its capacity to harvest the sea is rising, have gained wealth. Check out the 2007 is Sonny Gruber, a Miami Beach native Simply put, sharks are not out to get whereas the shark and other fi sh popula- documentary Sharkwater to gain insight who founded the Bimini Shark Lab and us, but they do bite. If they taste a surfer, tions are shrinking. It’s the same sad on this international market and inhu- retired not long ago from the University they usually spit it out. They much prefer story in the sea as on land: Man is taking mane fi shery. The most barbaric fi shers of Miami. Following in his fl ippers is turtles and seals. too much and caring too little. will slice the fi ns off of live sharks and current doctoral candidate at UM and Humans, on the other hand, are Global studies on sharks estimate dump the living bodies back into the great-white-shark fanatic Neil Ham- defi nitely out to eliminate the shark, that their populations have shriveled in water to die a slow death. They don’t merschlag, who has led several groups although most people remain ignorant of the past century by 90 percent. More- want to carry the extra weight of the of South Florida high school students on the pillage. Instead of adding ignorance over, those that remain are being pursued shark’s body, which is much less valu- shark expeditions to Africa. Check out to fear, be aware of this situation and more relentlessly than ever. able than the fi ns. his conservation Website and awesome study it. You will fi nd that sharks de- But why care about such a dangerous Shark-fi nning is illegal in the U.S. shark photos at neil4sharks.org. serve more than just respect. They need animal? The answer is essentially the and many other countries, but the At the University of Florida is the In- protection — like the wolf and the polar same as the answer about insects and practice is nearly impossible to regulate ternational Shark Attack File. It runs one bear and the sea turtle. snakes and bears. People may fi nd them on the high seas. It requires a correction of my favorite Websites, which attempts Add this bumper sticker to your collec- terrifying and inconvenient, but their from the marketplace. to answer the question on every beach- tion: Man Attacks Shark. Save the Shark. existence is linked to everything that One guy in Miami could care less goer’s mind: How long will it be before humans depend on. Balanced watersheds, about the fate of sharks. “Mark the Shark” I’m attacked and killed by a rogue shark? Feedback: [email protected]

46 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 R ESTAURANT LISTINGS The Biscayne Corridor’s most comprehensive restaurant guide. Total this month: 205.

Restaurant listings for the BT Dining owing to the option of dining outdoors on a covered terrace Plaza is more sleekly contemporary than most of Miami’s Azul directly on the waterfront. The food is Asian-inspired, with a rodizio joints, but no worries. The classic sword-wielding Guide are written by Pamela Robin 500 Brickell Key Dr., 305-913-8254 few Latin and Mediterranean accents (sushi, plus creative gauchos are here, serving a mind-reeling assortment of Floor-to-ceiling picture windows showcase Biscayne Bay. But fusion dishes like tangerine-anise spiced short ribs with scal- skewered beef, chicken, lamb, pork, sausages, and fish -- 16 Brandt. Every effort has been made diners are more likely to focus on the sparkling raw bar and open lion pancake, or a tempura-battered snapper sandwich with cuts at dinner, 12 at lunch. And included in the price (din- to ensure accuracy, but restaurants kitchen, where chef Clay Conley crafts imaginative global cre- lemon aioli). For the health-conscious, the menu includes ner $47, lunch $34) is the traditional belly-busting buffet of ations – many of them combinations, to satisfy those who want it low-cal choices. For hedonists there’s a big selection of arti- hot and cold prepared foods, salad, cold cuts, and cheeses, frequently change menus, chefs, and all. One offering, “A Study in Tuna,” includes tuna sashimi, Maine san sakes. $$$-$$$$$ plus additional accompaniments -- like irresistible cheese operating hours, so please call ahead crab, avocado tempura, and caviar, with several Asian sauces. bread -- served tableside. A pleasant, nontraditional surprise: Moroccan lamb is three preparations (grilled chop, harissa-mari- Caribbean Delight unusual sauces like sweet/tart passion fruit or mint, tomato- to confi rm information. Icons ($$$) nated loin, and bastilla, the famed savory-sweet Middle Eastern 236 NE 1st Ave., 305-381-9254 based BBQ, and mango chutney, along with the ubiquitous pastry, stuffed with braised shank), plus feta and smoked egg- Originally from Jamaica, proprietor Miss Pat has been serv- chimichurri. $$$$-$$$$$ represent estimates for a typical meal plant. Finish with a vanilla soufflé your way, a choice of toppings: ing her traditional homemade island specialties to downtown without wine, tax, or tip. Hyphenated chocolate, raspberry, or crème anglaise. $$$$$ office workers and college students since the early 1990s. Il Gabbiano Most popular item here might be the weekday lunch special 335 S. Biscayne Blvd., 305-373-0063 icons ($-$$$) indicate a signifi cant range Bali of jerk chicken with festival (sweet-fried cornmeal bread www.ilgabbianomiami.com 109 NE 2nd Ave., 305-358-5751 patties), but even vegetarians are well served with dishes Its location at the mouth of the Miami River makes this in prices between lunch and dinner While Indonesian food isn’t easy to find in Miami, downtown like a tofu, carrot, and chayote curry. All entrées come with ultra-upscale Italian spot (especially the chic outdoor ter- menus, or among individual items on has secret stashes -- small joints catering to Asian-Pacific cruise- rice and peas, fried plantains, and salad, so no one leaves race) the perfect power lunch/business dinner alternative ship and construction workers. Opened circa 2002, this cute, hungry – doubly true thanks to the home-baked Jamaican for those wanting something beyond steakhouses. And those menus. exotically decorated café has survived and thrived for good desserts. $ the culinary experience goes way beyond the typical meat $= $10 and under reason. The homey cooking is delicious, and the friendly family market, thanks in part to the flood of freebies that’s a feel encourages even the timid of palate to try something new. Dolores, But You Can Call Me Lolita trademark of Manhattan’s Il Mulino, originally run by Il $$= $20 Novices will want Indonesia’s signature rijsttafel, a mix-and-match 1000 S. Miami Ave., 305-403-3103 Gabbiano’s owners. (Free starters: A generous hunk of collection of small dishes and condiments to be heaped on rice. www.doloreslolita.com parmegiano-reggiano with aged balsamico dip, assertively $$$= $30 Once you’re hooked, there’s great gado-gado (veggies in peanut It’s hard to figure why a Mediterranean/Latin restaurant garlicky fried zucchini coins, and tomato-topped brus- $$$$= $40 sauce), nasi goring (ultimate fried rice), and laksa, a complex (with Asian touches) would be named after a line in a 1950s chette.) The rest of the food? Pricy, but portions are mam- coconut-curry noodle soup that’s near-impossible to find made novel about a New England pedophile. But everything else moth. And the champagne-cream-sauced housemade $$$$$= $50 and over properly, as it is here. Note: bring cash. No plastic accepted here. about this casually stylish spot is easy to understand — and ravioli with black truffles? Worth every penny. $$$$$ $-$$ easy on the wallet. All entrées cost either $18 or $23, a price that includes an appetizer — no low-rent crapola, either, Indochine The Bar at Level 25 (Conrad Hotel) but treats like Serrano ham croquetas, a spinach/leek tart 638 S. Miami Ave. MIAMI 1395 Brickell Ave., 305-503-6500 with Portobello mushroom sauce, or shrimp-topped eggplant 305-379-1525 On the Conrad’s restaurant/lobby-level 25th floor, the expan- timbales. And all desserts, from tiramisu to mango carpaccio www.indochinebistro.com Brickell / Downtown sive, picture-windowed space around the corner from the check- with lemon crème, are a bargain $2.50. The best seats in Indochine has succeeded by morphing from mere restau- in desks used to be just a lobby extension. Now it’s The Bar, this hip hangout, housed in the old Firehouse 4, are on the rant into hip hangout. Copious special events (art openings, Acqua which is not just a watering hole with panoramic views. At lunch rooftop patio. $$$ happy hours with DJs, classic movie or karaoke nights, 1435 Brickell Ave., Four Seasons Hotel it’s an elegant sandwich bar; at night it’s a raw bar (with pristine wine or sake tastings) draw everyone from downtown busi- 305-381-3190 coldwater oysters) and (best) a tapas bar serving pintxos. That’s Fresco California Bistro ness types to the counterculture crowd. Not that there’s Originally an Italian/Mediterranean restaurant, this comfortably just the Basque word for tapas, but as interpreted by Atrio’s 1744 SW 3rd Ave., 305-858-0608 anything “mere” about the range of food served from three elegant, upscale spot switched chefs in 2006 (to Patrick Duff, chef Michael Gilligan, there’s nothing mere about the generous- This festively decorated indoor/outdoor bistro packs a lot Asian nations. Light eaters can snack on Vietnamese sum- formerly at the Sukhothai in Bangkok), resulting in a complete ly portioned small plates. They range from traditional items like of party spirit into a small space, a large variety of food mer rolls or Japanese sushi rolls, including an imaginative menu renovation. Thailand’s famed sense of culinary balance cod fish equixada (a zingy bacalao salad) and saffron-sautéed onto its menu, and a very large amount of informal retro masago-coated model with mango, spicy tuna, and cilantro. is now evident throughout the global (though primarily Asian Spanish artichokes to inventive inspirations like foie gras and California-style fusion food onto its plates. To the familiar For bigger appetites, there are Thai curries and Vietnamese or Latin American-inspired) menu, in dishes like yuzu/white goat cheese-stuffed empanadas, or Asian-inspired soft-shell Latin American/Italian equation, the owners add a touch specialties like pho, richly flavored beef soup with meat- soya-dressed salad of shrimp tempura (with watercress, Vidalia crab in airy tempura batter. $$$ of Cal-Mex (like Tex-Mex but more health conscious). Menu balls, steak slices, rice noodles, and add-in Asian herbs onion, avocado, pomegranate), a tender pork shank glazed with offerings range from designer pizzas and pastas to custardy and sprouts. $$-$$$ spicy Szechuan citrus sauce (accompanied by a chorizo-flecked Blu Pizzeria e Cucina tamales, but the bistro’s especially known for imaginative plantain mash), or lunchtime’s rare tuna burger with lively 900 S. Miami Ave. (Mary Brickell Village) meal-size salads, like one featuring mandarin oranges, Iron Sushi wasabi aioli and wakame salad. For dessert few chocoholics 305-381-8335; www.blurestaurantsgroup.com avocado, apple, blue cheese, raisins, candied pecans, and 120 SE 3rd Ave., 305-373-2000 can resist a buttery-crusted tart filled with sinfully rich warm More than a mere pizzeria, this spot sports a super-sleek chicken on a mesclun bed. $$ (See Miami Shores listing) chocolate custard. $$$$$ Upper Eastside (of Manhattan) interior. If that’s too formal, opt for a casual patio table while you study the menu over an order Garcia’s Seafood Grille and Fish Market La Loggia Ristorante and Lounge Area 31 of warm, just-made gnocchetti (zeppole-like bread sticks, with 398 NW N. River Dr., 305-375-0765 68 W. Flagler St. 270 Biscayne Boulevard Way prosciutto and savory fontina fondue dip), or creamy-centered Run by a fishing family for a couple of generations, this 305-373-4800 305-524-5234 suppli alla romana (porcini-studded tomato and mozzarella venerable Florida fish shack is the real thing. No wor- www.laloggia.org www.area31restaurant.com rice croquettes). And don’t worry. The place looks upscale, ries about the seafood’s freshness; on their way to the This luxuriantly neo-classical yet warm-feeling Italian res- Not that the sleek interior of this seafood restaurant but prices of even the fanciest seafood or veal entrées don’t rustic outside dining deck overlooking the Miami River, taurant was unquestionably a pioneer in revitalizing down- (named for fishing area 31, stretching from the Carolinas to exceed $20. The fare fashioned by chef Ricardo Tognozzi diners can view the retail fish market to see what looks town; when it first opened, eating options in the courthouse South America) isn’t a glamorous dining setting. But we’d (formerly from La Bussola and Oggi) is wide-ranging, but as the freshest. Best preparations, as always when fish is this area were basically a variety of hot dog wagons. With eat outside. From the expansive terrace on the 16th floor name suggests, you can’t go wrong with one of the thin-crusted fresh, are the simplest. When stone crabs are in season, alternatives like amaretto-tinged pumpkin agnolloti in sage of the Epic condo and hotel on the Miami River, the views brick-oven pizzas, whether a traditional margherita or inventive Garcia’s claws are as good as Joe’s but considerably butter sauce, cilantro-spiced white bean/vegetable salad of Brickell’s high-rises actually make Miami look like a real asparagi e granchi (with lump crab, lobster cream, mozzarella, cheaper. The local fish sandwich is most popular – grou- dressed with truffle oil, and soufflé di granchi (crabmeat city. As for ingestibles, it’s hard to decide whether the eats and fresh asparagus). $$-$$$ per, yellowtail snapper, or mahi mahi, fried, grilled, or soufflé atop arugula dressed with honey-mustard vinai- or drinks are the most impressive. The food is impeccably blackened. The place is also famous for its zesty smoked- grette), proprietors Jennifer Porciello and Horatio Oliveira fresh regional fish, prepared in a clean Mediterranean- Café Sambal fish dip and its sides of hushpuppies. $-$$ continue to draw a lunch crowd that returns for dinner, or influenced style, like Royal Red shrimp with salmoriglio 500 Brickell Key Dr. perhaps just stays on through the afternoon, fueled by the sauce. The cocktails are, for a change, genuinely creative. 305-913-8358; www.mandarinoriental.com/miami Grimpa Steakhouse Lawyer’s Liquid Lunch, a vodka martini spiked with sweet- They pack a wallop, but are refreshing rather than over- Though the Mandarin Oriental Hotel describes this space 901 S. Miami Ave., 305-455-4757 ened espresso. $$$ wrought. Luckily you don’t have to choose one or the other. as its “casual hotel restaurant,” many consider it a more www.grimpa.com $$$-$$$$ spectacular dining setting than the upscale Azul, upstairs, This expansive indoor/outdoor Brazilian eatery at Brickell Continued on page 48

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 47 DINING GUIDE Red, White, and You Agreeable wine for $12 or less By Bill Citara good white wine we can pour down our fl oral nose, with an unexpectedly creamy richer, more mouth-fi lling lemon-lime BT Contributor gullets for $9 a bottle or less. texture and faintly ssweet,weet, citrusy and mineral fl avors than the usual run of Really, if we’re all in this hot, humid, fl avors. The Orvietoo is a blend cut-rate Pinot Grigios. hen is cheap not enough? Uh, storm-threatened, recession-ravaged of Italian mutt grapespes but delivdeliv-- Getting more than you pay for. Now, when the global economy is boat together, it’s the least we could do. ers a fair amount off complexity that’s change you can believe in. Wmelting down faster than an Let’s start with two terrifi c deals on — smoky, minerals,, tasting of ice cream cone on I-95 on a mid-July wines that are equally at home sipping in citrus and pear — forfor its $6.49 TThe Mendoza Station Torrontes, Miami afternoon? Yes. your dining room with chilled stone crab and price tag. Nobilis Vinho Verde, and Chateau So in this space’s relentless interest swilling on the beach with your posse. Rene At the upper end ofof Montet White Bordeaux are in pinching pennies until they scream, Barbier’s Mediterranean White (nonvin- our cheapskate limitmit available at the North Miami Total wail, and beg for mercy, we’ve goosed tage) is a truly remarkable value at $5.99. A are the 2008 Chateauateau Wine & More for $5.99, $6.99 our already skinfl int ways a few notches blend of Spanish varietals, it’s simple and Montet White Bor-or- and $8.99 respectively (14750 fl intier in preparation for the onslaught light-bodied, with crisp, refreshing notes deaux and 2007 VillaVilla Biscayne Blvd., 305-354-3270). The of another South Florida summer. Heat of grapefruit and green apple. Buy it by the San Giovanni Pinotnot Ruffi no Orvieto can be found at that will make your face melt, humid- case! You won’t be sorry. Grigio. Both revealeal an- the Aventura ABC Fine Wine & ity that turns life-giving oxygen into For a buck more there’s the 2008 other secret of drinkinginking Spirits for $6.49 (16355 Biscayne lungfuls of wet clay, hurricanes ready to Nobilis Vinho Verde, an even lighter below the radar: WatchWatch Blvd., 305-944-6525), the Rene spin-dry your neighborhood and scatter wine with the slight carbonated fi zz that’s what’s on sale. Att a Barbier Mediterranean White at the its pieces from Hialeah to Guam — all characteristic of this Portuguese product. reduced price of $8.99,$8.99, Biscayne Commons Publix (and reasons most of us use to get out of It’s only nine percent alcohol, perfect for these two wines dedeliverliver other Publix stores) for $5.99 (14641 Dodge, if only for a few days or weeks. drinking on a brutal SoFla summer day. even more value. ThThee Biscayne Blvd., 305-354-2171), and Not this year, unless a suitcase full of Also inhabiting the cheap seats are the Montet is classic the Villa San Giovanni Pinot Grigio newly minted Jacksons magically turns 2007 Ruffi no Orvieto and 2008 Mendoza Bordeaux Sauvignonnon at Laurenzo’s Italian Market for up in our closet. So it looks like we’ll be Station Torrontes. One of the secrets to Blanc — bracinglyly crisp, $8.99 (16385 W. Dixie Hwy., North sticking it out, and we need all the help we low-cost quaffi ng is to drink lesser-known with intense lemon-lime Miami Beach, 305-945-6381). can get. More specifi cally, all the good, not varietals and blends — Torrontes, for and grapefruit fl avors and a long, lemony just cheap but even cheaper, white wine we example, Argentina’s signature white wine fi nish. The San Giovanni drinks like the can get. More specifi cally than that, all the grape. The Mendoza fl aunts a fruity, almost more expensive wine it normally is, with Feedback: [email protected]

Restaurant Listings Le Boudoir Brickell traditionalists, but the menu is dominated by creative Nuevo Peoples Bar-B-Que 188 SE 12th Terr. Latino items like a new-style ceviche de chernia (lightly lime- 360 NW 8th St., 305-373-8080 Continued from page 47 305-372-2333 marinated grouper with jalapeños, basil, and the refreshing www.peoplesbarbque.com www.leboudoirmiami.com sweet counterpoint of watermelon), or crab ravioli with Oak-smoked, falling-off-the-bone tender barbecued ribs At this French bakery/café, mornings start seriously, with creamy saffron sauce. Especially notable are entrée salads (enhanced with a secret sauce whose recipe goes back La Moon choices ranging from quality cheese, charcuterie/pâté, or like the signature Ensalada Novecento: skirt steak slices several generations) are the main draw at this Overtown 144 SW 8th St., smoked salmon platters to chic Continental and complete (cooked to order) atop mixed greens coated in rich mustard institution. But the chicken is also a winner, plus there’s 305-860-6209 American breakfasts -- with baguettes, croissants, and vinaigrette with a side of housemade fries. $$-$$$ a full menu of soul food entrées, including what many afi- At four in the morning, nothing quells the post-clubbing other authentic housemade breads, natch. At lunch, gener- cionados consider our town’s tastiest souse. Sides include munchies like a Crazy Burger (a heart-stopping Colombian ously salad-garnished, open-faced tartines are irresistible Oceanaire Seafood Room collards, yams, and soft mac and cheese. And it would be take on a trucker’s burger: beef patty, bacon, ham, moz- (artichoke/tapenade; foie gras; saucisson and French 900 S. Miami Ave. unthinkable to call it quits without homemade sweet potato zarella, lettuce, tomato, and a fried egg, with an arepa corn butter on an ultra-crusty imported sourdough slice). But 305-372-8862 pie or banana pudding, plus a bracing flop – half iced tea, pancake “bun”) unless it’s a Supermoon perro, a similarly sophisticated salads and homemade soups make the www.theoceanaire.com half lemonade. $-$$ overloaded hot dog. For less dainty eaters, there’s a bandeja choice tough. And do not skip dessert. Superb sweets With a dozen branches nationwide, Oceanaire may seem paisa, a mountainous construction containing char-grilled include rich almond/fresh raspberry or properly tangy more All-American seafood empire than Florida fish Perricone’s steak, pork belly, pork-enriched beans, rice, plantains, eggs, lemon tarts, traditional Madeleines, airy layered mousses, shack. But while many dishes (including popular sides like 15 SE 10th St. and arepas. One hardly knows whether to eat it or burrow in and addictive mini-macaroon sandwich cookies with daily- bacon-enriched hash browns and fried green tomatoes) 305-374-9449 to spend the rest of the night. While this tiny place’s late hours changing fillings. $-$$ are identical at all Oceanaires, menus vary significantly www.perricones.com (till 3:00 a.m. Thursday, 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday) are according to regional tastes and fish. Here in Miami, chef Housed in a Revolutionary-era barn (moved from Vermont), surprising, the daytime menu is more so. In addition to all the Manny’s Steakhouse Sean Bernal (formerly at Merrick Park’s Pescado) supple- this market/café was one of the Brickell area’s first gentrified cholesterol-packed Colombian classics, there’s a salad Nicoise 300 S. Biscayne Blvd. ments signature starters like lump crab cakes with his amenities. At lunch chicken salad (with pignolias, raisins, with grilled fresh tuna, seared salmon with mango salsa, and 305-938-9000 own lightly marinated, Peruvian-style grouper ceviche. apples, and basil) is a favorite; dinner’s strong suit is the pasta other yuppie favorites. $-$$ www.mannyssteakhouse.com The daily-changing, 15-20 specimen seafood selection list, ranging from Grandma Jennie’s old-fashioned lasagna to M. Night Shyamalan couldn’t have come up with more obvious includes local fish seldom seen on local menus: pompa- chichi fiocchi purses filled with fresh pear and gorgonzola. And Latitude Zero irony: Located directly opposite Prime Blue Grille, Miami’s most no, parrot fish, amberjack. But even flown-in fish (and the Sunday’s $15.95 brunch buffet ($9.95 for kids) – featuring an 36 SW 1st St., intentionally female-friendly steakhouse (light décor, lightened raw bar’s cold-water oysters) are ultra-fresh. $$$$ omelet station, waffles, smoked salmon and bagels, salads, 305-372-5205 dishes), is Manny’s, Miami’s most intentionally masculine steak- and more – remains one of our town’s most civilized all-you- Potted plants are the only sign outside this narrow store- house. Here, ensconced in your black leather booth, everything Pasha’s can-eat deals. $$ front that the room inside is worlds more charming than is humongous: dry-aged choice-grade steaks like the Bludgeon 1414 Brickell Ave. standard downtown Latin eateries. This urban oasis is of Beef (a boldly flavorful 40-ounce bone-in ribeye, described as 305-416-5116 Prime Blue Grille an artsy little white-tablecloth place (with alternating red “part meat, part weapon”); king crab legs that dwarf the plate; The original branch on Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road was 315 S. Biscayne Blvd., Miami tablecloths warming up the feel), but with no-tablecloth cocktail shrimp that could swallow the Loch Ness monster instantly popular, and the same healthy Middle Eastern fast 305-358-5901 prices. While much of the menu is Miami’s generic Latin whole; two-fisted cocktails that would fell a T-Rex. Not for the food – made with no trans fats or other nutritional nasties www.primebluegrille.com mix, there ia a separate Ecuadorian section that’s a playlist frail. $$$$$ – is served at the three newer outlets. The prices are low This truly 21st-century steakhouse targets today’s health- of that country’s culinary greatest hits. Standouts: ence- enough that one might suspect Pasha’s was conceived as a minded gourmets by serving only certified-organic Brandt bollado, a centuries-old fishermen’s soup given national Novecento tax write-off rather than a Harvard Business School project, beef – antibiotic- and hormone-free, as well as dry-aged, individuality by yuca and zingy hits of lime; lighter caldo de 1414 Brickell Ave., 305-403-0900 which it was by founders Antonio Ellek and Nicolas Cortes. butchered in-house, and smoke-seared by Prime Blue’s bola, veggie-packed broth with plantain dumplings; and www.bistronovecento.com Dishes range from common classics like falafel and gyros to intense wood-burning grills and ovens. For noncarnivores, cazuelas, thick layered casseroles of mashed plantains and For those who think “Argentine cuisine” is a synonym for more unusual items like muhammara (tangy walnut spread), the menu gives equal time to fish, all caught wild, and offers tomato-enriched seafood. No clue? Try a bandera, a mixed “beef and more beef,” this popular eatery’s wide range silky labneh yogurt cheese, and chicken adana kebabs with dozens of cooked vegetable and salad options, including plate of Ecuador’s most distinctive dishes, including shrimp of more cosmopolitan contemporary Argentine fare will grilled veggies and aioli sauce. Everything from pitas to lem- ceviche. $$ be a revelation. Classic parrilla-grilled steaks are here for onade is made fresh, from scratch, daily. $-$$ Continued on page 49

48 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings expansive indoor/outdoor space offers a dining experience gay bar, strip club. Previously all these, this gritty spot has milk. All meats are certified halal, Islam’s version of kosher that’s haute in everything but price. Few entrées top $20. been best known since 1982 as a venue for live music, — which doesn’t mean that observant orthodox Jews can eat Continued from page 48 The décor is both date-worthy and family-friendly – festive primarily blues. But it also offers food from lunchtime here, but Muslims can. $$$ but not kitschy. And nonsophisticates needn’t fear; though to late night (on weekends till 4:00 a.m.). The kitchen is build-your-own. There’s also a raw bar and a small steak/ nachos aren’t available, there is nothing scary about zarape especially known for its chili, budget-priced steaks, and Bin No. 18 seafood retail counter. The décor is as modern as the menu. de pato (roast duck between freshly made, soft corn tortillas, burgers, including the mega-mega burger, a trucker-style 1800 Biscayne Blvd. Instead of the stuffy men’s club look, you have a soaring, topped with yellow-and-habanero-pepper cream sauce), or monster topped with said chili plus cheddar, mushrooms, 786-235-7575 light-hued, open-plan, indoor/outdoor space, with panoramic Rosa’s signature guacamole en molcajete, made tableside. A bacon, and a fried egg. There’s also surprisingly elegant At this wine bar/café, located on the ground floor of one of Miami River view. $$$$ few pomegranate margaritas ensure no worries. $$$ fare, though, like a Norwegian salmon club with lemon midtown’s new mixed-use condo buildings, the décor is a aioli. A meat-smoker in back turns out tasty ribs, perfect stylish mix of contemporary cool (high loft ceilings) and Old Provence Grill Soya & Pomodoro accompaniment to the blues. $$ World warmth (tables made from old wine barrels). Cuisine 1001 S. Miami Ave., 305-373-1940 120 NE 1st St., 305-381-9511 is similarly geared to the area’s new smart, upscale resi- The cozy, terracotta-tiled dining room (and even more Life is complicated. Food should be simple. That’s owner MIDTOWN / WYNWOOD / DESIGN DISTRICT dents: creative sandwiches and salads at lunch, tapas and charming outdoor dining terrace) indeed evoke the south Armando Alfano’s philosophy, which is stated above the entry larger internationally themed Spanish, Italian, or French of France. But the menu of French bistro classics covers to his atmospheric downtown eatery. And since it’s also the charcuterie platters at night. Though the place is small all regions, a Greatest Hits of French comfort food: country- formula for the truest traditional Italian food (Alfano hails from Adelita’s Café and family-run friendly, Venezuelan-born chef Alfredo style pâté maison with onion jam, roasted peppers and cor- Pompeii), it’s fitting that the menu is dominated by authenti- 2699 Biscayne Blvd. Patino’s former executive chef gigs at Bizcaya (at the Ritz- nichons; steak/frites (grilled rib-eye with peppercorn cream cally straightforward yet sophisticated Italian entrées such as 305-576-1262 Carlton Coconut Grove) and other high-profile venues are sauce, fries, and salad); four preparations of mussels; a spinach- and ricotta-stuffed crêpes with béchamel and tomato From the street (which is actually NE 26th, not Biscayne) evident in sophisticated snacks like the figciutto, a salad tarte tatin (French apple tart with roasted walnuts, served à sauces. There are salads and sandwiches, too, including one this Honduran restaurant seems unpromising, but inside it’s of arugula, gorgonzola dolce, caramelized onions, pine la mode). Deal alert: An early-bird prix-fixe menu (5:30-7:30 soy burger to justify the other half of the place’s name. The bigger, better, and busier than it looks. Unlike many Latin nuts, fresh figs, and prosciutto. Free parking in a fenced p.m.) offers soup or salad, entrée, dessert, and a carafe of most enjoyable place to dine is the secret, open-air courtyard, American eateries, which serve a multinational mélange, this lot behind the building. $$ wine for $44 per couple. $$$-$$$$ completely hidden from the street. Alfano serves dinner on one sticks close to the source and proves a crowd-pleaser. On Thursdays only to accompany his “Thursday Night Live” events weekends especially, the two casual dining rooms are packed Bleu Moon The River Oyster Bar featuring local musicians and artists. $-$$ with families enjoying authentic fare like baleadas (thick corn 1717 N. Bayshore Dr. 650 S. Miami Ave., 305-530-1915 tacos), tajadas (Honduras’s take on tostones), rich meal-in- 305-373-8188 www.therivermiami.com Taste of Bombay a-bowl soups packed with seafood or meat and veggies, and Deep inside the Doubletree Grand, this restaurant, This casually cool Miami River-area jewel is a full-service 111 NE 3rd Ave.; 305-358-0144 more. To spend ten bucks on a meal here, one would have to which has panoramic Biscayne Bay views and an seafood spot, as evidenced by tempting menu selections No surprise that a place called Taste of Bombay would be a sumo wrestler. $ outdoor deck, is one of the few upscale dinner spots like soft-shell crabs with grilled vegetables, corn relish, and be an Indian restaurant. And depending mostly on the near the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. The remoulade. There are even a few dishes to please meat-and- predominant nationalities of downtown construction work- Bengal eclectic menu is more Mediterranean than anything potatoes diners, like short ribs with macaroni and cheese. ers at any given time, Taste of Bombay has also served 2010 Biscayne Blvd. else, from old-fashioned favorites like lasagna to But oyster fans will still find it difficult to resist stuffing them- sushi, Philippine, and Chinese food. Best bet, though, is 305-403-1976 contemporary creations like gnocchi with sun-dried selves silly on the unusually large selection of bivalves (often the all-you-can-eat Indian buffet lunch spread, featuring At this Indian eatery the décor is date-worthy, with the typical tomatoes, sweet pea purée, pine nuts, and ricotta ten varieties per night), especially since oysters are served six changing entrées (a mix of meat, poultry, fish, and veg- garish brass/tapestry/elephants everywhere replaced by a salata. But a few seafood sauces reflect Asian influ- both raw and cooked – fire-roasted with sofrito butter, cho- etable curries) plus veggie pakoras, rice, salad, chutneys, cool, contemporary ambiance: muted gray and earth-tone ences, and tropical Latin touches abound. Some of rizo, and manchego. To accompany these delights, there’s a hot naan bread, and a dessert. The place looks plain out- walls, tasteful burgundy banquettes. And the menu touts the most charming dishes are modernized American, thoughtful wine list and numerous artisan beers on tap. $$$ side, but it’s pleasantly exotic enough inside for a bargain “Modern Indian Cuisine” to match the look. Classicists, and done well enough to make you nostalgic for business lunch. $$ however, needn’t worry. Some dishes’ names are unfamil- 1985: creamy (but not gunky) lobster bisque, lump Rosa Mexicano iar, but America’s favorite familiar north Indian flavors are crab cake with fried capers, and a retro arugula 900 S. Miami Ave., 786-425-1001 Tobacco Road here, though dishes are generally more mildly spiced and salad with caramelized walnuts, bacon, gorgonzola, www.rosamexicano.com 626 S. Miami Ave., 305-374-1198 presented with modern flair. Definitely don’t miss starting fresh berries, and raspberry vinaigrette. $$$$ A branch of the original Rosa Mexicano that introduced New www.tobacco-road.com with salad-garnished Deshi Samosas (which come with ter- Yorkers to real Mexican food (not Tex-Mex) in 1984, this Prohibition-era speakeasy (reputedly a fave of Al Capone), rific cilantro/mint dip) or ending with mango kulfi, Indian ice Continued on page 50

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 49 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings evocative. Rough-cut pâté de campagne, topped with Fratelli Lyon and cheddar on sourdough) come with homemade soup cornichons on a crusty buttered baguette is an instant 4141 NE 2nd Ave. or other sides, plus fruit. Not full yet? The pair has recently Continued from page 49 trip to Paris. Though weekend nighttime hours were 305-572-2901; www.fratellilyon.com expanded to include night hours with an authentic Ethiopian instituted several years ago, dinner is an on-again, off- This Italian café has been packed since the moment it opened. dinner menu, plus beer and wine selections. $-$$ Brosia again thing, so call first. $$-$$$ No surprise to any who recall owner Ken Lyon’s pioneering Lyon 163 NE 39th St. Freres gourmet store on pre-gentrified Lincoln Road (1992-97), Latin Café 2000 305-572-1400 The Daily Creative Food Co. another joint that was exactly what its neighborhood needed. 2501 Biscayne Blvd., 305-576-3838 www.brosiamiami.com 2001 Biscayne Blvd., 305-573-4535 The restaurant’s artisan salumi, cheeses, flavorful boutique www.latincafe2000.com The reputation that Arthur Artile amassed after years While the food formula of this contemporary café is familiar – olive oils, and more on the ingredient-driven menu are so out- The menu is similar to that at many of our town’s Latin as executive chef at Norman’s and Chispa has made sandwiches, salads, soups, breakfast food, and pastries, plus standing that one can’t help wishing this restaurant also had a cafés, largely classic Cuban entrées and sandwiches, with the Design District’s Brosia an instant hit. The menu is coffee and fruit drinks – a creative concept differentiates the retail component. Well, maybe later. Meanwhile console your- a smattering of touches from elsewhere in Latin America, Mediterranean-inspired, with a few items — like gazpacho place. Signature sandwiches are named after national and local self with the sort of salamis and formaggi you’ll never find in such as a Peruvian jalea mixta (marinated mixed seafood), Caprese — fusing cuisines, but most retaining regional newspapers (like the Biscayne Times: tuna salad with hummus, the supermarket (as well as rare finds like culatello – prosciutto or paella Valenciana from Spain, which many Miami eateries individuality: Moroccan mussels in curry broth; shrimp cucumber, roasted peppers, arugula, and sprouts on multigrain royalty), including a mixed antipasto esplosione that would feed consider a Latin country. What justifies the new millennium and clams (with garlic, chorizo, and sherry) that scream bread), giving diners something to chat about. For those who’d Rhode Island. Entrées include properly al dente pastas, plus moniker is the more modern, yuppified/yucafied ambiance, “Spain!” The stylish space is a draw, too. Inside, all mahog- rather Have It Their Own Way, both sandwiches and salads some regional specialties like Venetian-style calves liver, rarely encouraged by an expansive, rustic wooden deck. Delivery is any, leather, and luxuriant intimacy; outside, seating on an can be do-it-yourself projects, with an unusually wide choice of found outside Italy. $$$ now available. $$ extensive patio shaded by a canopy of old oaks. And the main ingredients, garnishes, breads, and condiments for the convenient all-day hours (even breakfast) give it the feel of creatively minded. $ Grass Lemoni Café a real neighborhood restaurant. $$$ 28 NE 40th St.; 305-573-3355 4600 NE 2nd Ave. Delicias Peruanas After a couple of years in hiatus, this Design District restolounge 305-571-5080 Buena Vista Bistro 2590 Biscayne Blvd., 305-573-4634 has reopened in the same outdoor courtyard space. What’s The menu here reads like your standard sandwiches/ 4582 NE 2nd Ave., 305-456-5909 Seafood is the specialty at this pleasant Peruvian spot, new: “MediterAsian” chef Michael Jacobs and a menu that trav- salads/starters primer. What it doesn’t convey is the spar- If a neighborhood eatery like this one -- which serves as it was at the original Delicias, run by members of the els beyond pan-Asian and Mediterranean influences into the kling freshness of the ingredients and the care that goes supremely satisfying Italian, American, and French bistro same family, eight blocks north on the Boulevard. There Americas. Entrées range from lowbrow comfort food (cunningly into constructing these mostly healthy snacks. Entrée-size food -- were within walking distance of every Miami resident, are differences here, notably karaoke on weekends - and a reinvented mini pot pies) to high-status extravagance (stone- salads range from an elegant spinach salad (with goat we’d be a helluva hip food town. Located in the intimate kitchen that doesn’t shut down till the wannabe American seared, authentic Kobe steak). For healthy grazers, raw-bar cheese, pears, walnuts, and raisins) to chunky homemade space that formerly housed Restaurant A, it’s the love child Idols shut up, around 2:00 a.m. But the food is as tasty as selections include ceviches and a large seafood platter (lobster, chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens – a hefty help- of Quebequoise chef Claude Postel and his wife Callie, who ever, especially the reliably fresh traditional ceviches, and shrimp, and lump crab with housemade dipping sauces). ing of protein without typical deli-style mayo overload. runs the front of the house with exuberantly friendly charm. for those who like their fish tangy but cooked, a mammoth There’s also a snack menu (pristine coldwater oysters, a crab Sandwiches (cold baguette subs, hot pressed paninis, or Like true Parisian bistros, it’s open continuously, every day jalea platter (lightly breaded, fried seafood under a blanket salad timbale, parmesan-truffle shoestring fries, mini-Kobe wraps, all accompanied by side salads) include a respect- (until midnight!), with prices so low (starters $5-8, entrées of marinated onions - the fish and chips of your dreams). As burgers) served till the wee hours, providing a welcome alterna- able Cuban, but the deceptively rich-tasting light salad $8-15) that one really can drop in anytime for authentic ril- for nonseafood stuff, no one who doesn’t already know that tive to the Boulevard’s fast food chains. $$-$$$$$ cream that dresses a veggie wrap might tempt even hard- lettes (a scrumptious spiced meat spread, like a rustic pâté) Peru practically invented fusion cuisine (in the 1800s) will core cholesterol fans to stick with the sprouts. $-$$ with a crusty baguette, steak with from-scratch frites, salmon doubt, after sampling two traditional noodle dishes: tallerin Joey’s Italian Café atop ratatouille, or many changing blackboard specials. saltado (Chinese-Peruvian beef or chicken lo mein) or tallerin 2506 NW 2nd Ave. Lime Fresh Mexican Grill Portions are plentiful. So is free parking. And it’s well worth verde (Ital-Latin noodles with pesto and steak). $$ 305-438-0488 14831 Biscayne Blvd., 305-949-8800 a drive. $$ The first new restaurant in the Wynwood Café District, this Like its South Beach predecessor, this Lime was an instant 18th Street Café stylish indoor/outdoor Italian hangout is as casually cool hit, as much for being a hip hangout as for its carefully Captain Joe Seafood & Pasta Grill 210 NE 18th St. as one would hope -- and as affordable. The highest ticket crafted Tex-Mex food. Though Lime is now franchising, the 3401 N. Miami Ave. (Shops at Midtown) 305-381-8006; www.18thstreetcafe.com items are $24 lamb chops with balsamic reduction, and a chain’s concept is “fast casual” rather than fast food – 305-573-6111 Most of the seating in this cool little breakfast/lunch room few $1000 wines. For starving artists, there’s a five-buck meaning nice enough for a night out. It also means ingredi- No matter if your splurge in the Shops at Midtown Miami is in a sort of giant bay window, backed with banquettes, half-serving of spaghetti al pomodoro and respectable vino ents aren’t canned-type crapola. Seafood tacos are about as begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 10:00 p.m. This eatery that makes the space feel expansively light-filled, and quite for under $30. And few can resist delicately thin, crunchy- exotic as the standard menu gets, but the mahi mahi for fish will be there for you, with eggs, pancakes, French toast, nicely gentrifies its whole evolving Midtown block. This crusted pizzas like the creative Dolce e Piccante (with figs, tacos comes fresh, never frozen, from a local supplier, and and bagels till 11:00 a.m. After that it’s a seafood-ori- pioneering place deserves to survive, even if just consider- gorgonzola, honey, and hot pepper) or orgasmic Carbonara salsas are housemade daily. Niceties include low-carb torti- ented menu of fast-casual food, like a more upscale and ing the roast beef sandwich with creamy horseradish – an (mozzarella, pancetta, asparagus, and eggs). There are llas for dieters and many Mexican beers for partiers. $ more regional version of Long John Silver’s. Best values inspired classic combination that makes one wonder why also numerous surprise specials, as the energetic young are combo platters (served with choice of two Latin or more places in this town don’t serve it. (We’ll debate later.) chef from Italy’s Veneto region changes the menu twice Lost & Found Saloon All-American sides) such as shrimp and a grilled kebab, a Other culinary highlights of the classic “Six S” repertoire daily. Pastas are fresh; produce is largely local; the mosaic- 185 NW 36th St., 305-576-1008 hefty fried or grilled fish sandwich, or a Caribbean paella. (soups, sandwiches, salads, sweets, smoothies, specials) centered décor is minimalist but inviting. And no need to www.thelostandfoundsaloon-miami.com The last is more like a pilaf than Spain’s saffron-rich might include a turkey/pear/cheddar melt sandwich, and be wary of the warehouse district at night: Valet parking is There’s an artsy/alternative feel to this casual and friendly creation, but is packed with enough mussels, fish, cala- really sinful marshmallow-topped brownies. $ free. $$-$$$ Wynwood eatery, which, since opening as a weekday-only mari, chicken, and small shrimp to feed two. There are breakfast and lunch joint in 2005, has grown with its neigh- also more than a half-dozen specials (chicken, shrimp, or Five Guys Famous Burger and Fries Kafa Café borhood. It’s now open for dinner six nights a week, serving veggie-topped pastas) served from 4:00-9:00 p.m. daily, 3401 N. Miami Ave. (Shops at Midtown) 3535 NE 2nd Ave. Southwestern-style fare at rock-bottom prices. Dishes like all for under seven bucks. $ 305-571-8345 305-438-0114 piñon and pepita-crusted salmon, chipotle-drizzled endive www.fiveguys.com www.kafamidtown.com stuffed with lump crab, or customizable tacos average Charcuterie Like the West Coast’s legendary In-N-Out Burger chain, this Opened in late 2007 by a brother/sister team (both originally $5-$8. Also available: big breakfasts and salads, hearty 3612 NE 2nd Ave., 305-576-7877 East Coast challenger serves no green-leaf faux health food. from Ethiopia, via San Francisco), this casual spot is located soups, housemade pastries like lemon-crusted wild berry This Design District old-timer has hung on for close You get what the name says, period, with three adds: kosher in the stylish indoor/outdoor, multi-roomed Midtown space pie, and a hip beer and wine list. $ to 20 years as the District has gone through its mood dogs, veggie burgers, and free peanuts while you wait. formerly housing Uva and Stop Miami. Nothing on the break- swings. But it’s no worse for the wear. The upstairs/ Which you will, just a bit, since burgers are made fresh upon fast and lunch menus tops $8, and portions feed an army (or Maino Churrascaria downstairs space looks good as new, and is still almost order, not steam-tabled. Available in double or one-patty several starving artists). Signature item is the formidable Kafa 2201 Biscayne Blvd. impossibly cute. The menu, chalked daily on a black- sizes, they’re well-done but spurtingly juicy, and after loading Potato Platter -- a mountain of wondrously textured home fries 305-571-9044 board, still features well more than a dozen typical with your choice of 15 free garnishes, even a “little” burger mixed with bacon, ham, peppers, onion, and cheese; eggs This very upscale Brazilian steakhouse has all the fea- French bistro specials like chicken Dijonaise or almond- makes a major meal. Fries (regular or Cajun-spiced) are also (any style), fresh fruit, and bread accompany. Lunch’s burg- tures one expects at a rodizio-style restaurant, including crusted trout in creamy, lemony beurre blanc. And the superior, hand-cut in-house from sourced potatoes; a chang- ers, salads, and overstuffed sandwiches (like the roast beef salads, soups, and sandwiches are still, invariably, ing sign reports the spuds’ point of origin. $ supreme, a melt with sautéed mushrooms, onion, sour cream, Continued on page 51

50 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings Mike’s at Venetia Out of the Blue Café Pizzafiore 555 NE 15th St., 9th floor, 305-374-5731 2426 NE 2nd Ave., 305-573-3800 2905 NE 2nd Ave., 305-573-0900 Continued from page 50 www.mikesvenetia.com www.outofthebluecafe.net Those seeking dainty designer pizzas can fuhgeddaboudit here. There’s no sign out front, but this family-owned Irish pub, Forget impersonal chain coffeehouses. This artist- At this New York-style pizzeria (which has roughly the same all-you-can-eat meats carved tableside and a lavish buffet on the pool deck of a waterfront condo building across friendly, independent neighborhood café serves a full menu as North Beach’s original Pizzafiore, but independent of salads, sides, salumi, and hot prepared dishes. What from the Miami Herald, for more than 15 years has been a selection of coffee drinks made with the award-winning ownership), it’s all about heftiness. A special slice/soda deal sets Maino apart from typical rodizio palaces is its family- popular lunch and dinner hang-out for local journalists – and beans of Intelligentsia, a roasting company that works features two pizza triangles bigger than most Miami mini- run feel, intimate rather than intimidating, plus its attention others who appreciate honest cheap eats and drinks (not to directly with artisan growers to encourage sustainable skirts. Whole pies come medium (large), large (huge), and to every detail (immediately obvious in the classy rustic/ mention a billiard table and 17 TV screens). Regulars know agriculture – and one helluva good cup of java. Also extra-large (think truck tire). And with fully loaded pizzas like elegant décor, highlighted by striking onyx accents -- bars, daily specials are the way to go. Depending on the day, fish, served: breakfast and lunch sandwiches, imagina- the Supreme Meat Lover priced only a few bucks more than tabletops, and more). While it’s rare at most rodizio joints churrasco, or roast turkey with all the trimmings are all pre- tive salads, soups, homemade pastries and creamy a basic tomato/ cheese, it pays to think big about toppings to get meat done less than medium, Maino’s eager-to- pared fresh. Big burgers and steak dinners are always good, fresh-fruit smoothies. With tables, sofas, and lounge too. Other Italian-American fare is also available, notably pas- please servers here are happy to convey custom-cooking and happy hour appetizers (like meaty Buffalo wings) are chairs inside an old Midtown house, plus free wireless tas and subs. $-$$ preferences to the kitchen -- and they’re English-speaking, always half-price. Additionally, a limited late-night menu pro- Internet access, the space is also just a pleasant place too. One other welcome difference: As well as the one-price vides pizza, wings, ribs, and salad till 3:00 a.m. $-$$ to hang out. Owner Carmen Miranda (real name) says Primo’s (hefty) feast, there are à la carte starters and pastas for beer and wine will soon be available. $ 1717 N. Bayshore Dr., 305-371-9055 lighter eaters and noncarnivores, and some lunch specials. Moriano Relatively few people except hotel guests and condo resi- Free parking, too. $$-$$$$$ 3221 NE 2nd Ave., 786-953-8003 Pacific Time dents are familiar with the Grand’s restaurants (except for http://moriano.wordpress.com 35 NE 40th St. Tony Chan’s). The imposing, cavernous lobby just doesn’t Mario the Baker Ultra-thin, crisp-crusted pizzas as good as Piola’s in South 305-722-7369 have that “do drop in” locals’ hangout vibe. But this lively 250 NE 25th St. Beach. Made-from-scratch daily specials like green bean www.pacifictimemiami.com Italian spot is actually a great addition to the neighbor- 305-438-0228 and parmesan soup, or prosciutto and mozzarella-stuffed Everyone knows Jonathan Eismann’s original, now-defunct hood. The pizzas alone – brick-oven specimens with top- (See North Miami listing) gnocchi that you really have not seen on every other menu in Pacific Time, for many years Lincoln Road’s only serious pings ranging from classic pepperoni to trendy prosciutto/ town. A homemade white chocolate/raspberry cake, choco- contemporary restaurant. The question is: How different arugula – would be draw enough. But pastas are also Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink late ganache cake, and other pastries to die for. High-quality is its new incarnation? Very, and it’s all good, starting with planned to please: diners’ choice of starch, with mix-and- 130 NE 40th St. ingredients, wine and beer, low prices, enthusiastic hands-on far superior acoustics (no more voice-shredding conversa- match sauces and extras. And the price is right, with few 305-573-5550 owners committed to arts-oriented creativity. A comfortable tions!), an admirably green ecological policy, and a neigh- entrées (whether traditional veal piccata or seared ahi Long-awaited and an instant smash hit, this truly hang-out atmosphere. This tiny café, where “processed food” borhood-friendly attitude (including kid-oriented dishes, tuna) topping $20. The capper: It’s open past midnight neighborhood-oriented restaurant from Michael Schwartz, is a dirty word, has it all — except a high-visibility location or plus continuous service of inventive small plates and bar every day but Sunday. $$ founding chef of Nemo’s in South Beach, offers down-to- media hype. So discover it for yourselves. (There’s ample snacks). The food is also more intriguing – simultaneously earth fun food in a comfortable, casually stylish indoor/ free street parking, too.) $-$$ complexly refined and accessibly clean. While the addition Sake Room outdoor setting. Fresh, organic ingredients are empha- of Mediterranean influences to PT’s former Pacific Rim 275 NE 18th St., 305-755-0122 sized, but dishes range from cutting-edge (crispy beef Orange Café + Art menu may sound confusing on paper, trust us: A meal www.sakeroom.com cheeks with whipped celeriac, celery salad, and chocolate 2 NE 40th St., 305-571-4070 that includes a butter-grilled asparagus with prosciutto, Sake takes a back seat to sushi – and sophisticated décor – at reduction) to simple comfort food: deviled eggs, home- The paintings hanging in this tiny, glass-enclosed café soft-cooked egg Milanese, and preserved lemon; plus an this small but sleek restolounge, which offers South Beach made potato chips with pan-fried onion dip, or a whole are for sale. And for those who don’t have thousands of Asian-accented creamy corn/leek soup with Peeky Toe sophistication without the prices or attitude, thanks to charm- wood-roasted chicken. There’s also a broad range of pric- dollars to shell out for the local art on the walls, less than crab dumplings, coriander, and mustard oil makes perfect ing proprietor Mario Cicilia. Among the seafood offerings, you es and portion sizes ($4-$8 for snacks and small plates ten bucks will get you art on a plate, including a Picasso: sense on the tongue. $$-$$$$ won’t find exotica or local catches, but all the usual sushi/ to $24-$39 for extra-large plates) to encourage frequent chorizo, prosciutto, manchego cheese, baby spinach, sashimi favorites are here, but in more interesting form, thanks visits from light-bite as well as pig-out diners. Michael’s and basil on a crusty baguette. Other artfully named and Pasha’s to sauces that go beyond standard soy – spicy sriracha, garlic/ Genuine also features an eclectic and affordable wine list, crafted edibles include salads, daily soups, several pastas 3801 N. Miami Ave. ponzu oil, and many more. Especially recommended: the yuzu and a full bar, with cut-rate weekday happy hour cocktails. (like the Matisse, fiocchi pouches filled with pears and 305-573-0201 hamachi roll (chopped Pacific yellowtail with scallions, sesame, $$-$$$$ cheese), and house-baked pastries. $ (See Brickell/Downtown listing) Continued on page 52

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 51 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings duck salad with goat cheese croutons and a poached egg; fresh and cured meats. But the everyday menu, ranging from multicultural bases. If the Old World Rucola pizza (a classic and chocolate fondant. At night there are tapas. $-$$ Margherita topped with arugula, prosciutto, and shredded Continued from page 51 unique, tapas-like pasteis (shrimp and hearts of palm-stuffed turnovers) to hefty Brazilian entrées, is also appealing – and parmesan) doesn’t do the trick, the New World Especial (a Latin Zuperpollo Biztro Reztocafe budget-priced. $$ pie with hearts of palm and boiled eggs) just might. Also avail- roe, citrusy dressing, and refreshing shiso leaf), the lobster 3050 Biscayne Blvd. able are pastas, salads, sandwiches, dinner entrées (eggplant tempura maki (with veggies, chive oil, and an oddly wonderful 305-573-8485 Le Café parmigiana with spaghetti, lomito steak with Argentinean potato tomato sauce), and panko-coated spicy shrimp with hot-and- www.zuperpollo.com 7295 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-6551 salad), and desserts (tiramisu or flan). $ sour mayo and a salad. $$-$$$ Occasionally there’s a sign out front of the office building For anyone who can’t get over thinking of French food as housing this bistro, indicating that a branch of the popular intimidating or pretentious, this cute café with a warm Chef Creole S & S Diner Uruguayan eatery Zuperpollo (on Coral Way, since 1986) is welcome, and family-friendly French home cooking, is the 200 NW 54th St. 1757 NE 2nd Ave. within. Otherwise, since the restaurant opened in 2006, locals antidote. No fancy food (or fancy prices) here, just classic 305-754-2223 305-373-4291 have basically had to intuit its presence – way in back, past a comfort food like onion soup, escargot, daily fresh oysters, Sparkling fresh Creole-style food is the star at chef/owner Some things never change, or so it seems at this diner, which is guard desk and an elevator bank, behind an unmarked door. boeuf bourguignon (think Ultimate Pot Roast), Nicoise salad, Wilkinson Sejour’s two tiny but wildly popular establish- so classic it verges on cliché. Open since 1938, it’s still popular Once there, diners discover an extensive pan-Latin menu of quiche, and homemade crème brûlée. A respectable beer ments. While some meatier Haitian classics like griot (fried enough that people line up on Saturday morning, waiting for breakfast food, salads, substantial meat and fish entrées, and wine list is a welcome addition, as is the housemade pork chunks) and oxtail stew are also available – and a a seat at the horseshoe-shaped counter (there are no tables) homemade pastas and soups, desserts, and sandwiches, sangria. Top price for entrées is about $14. $-$$ $3.99 roast chicken special is a hard deal to resist – the and enormous breakfasts: corned beef hash or crab cakes including Uruguay’s famed chivito, sometimes called “a heart glistening fish display that greets diners as they walk in and eggs with grits; fluffy pancakes; homemade biscuits with attack on a bun”: beef, bacon, ham, eggs, mozzarella, plus Canela makes it clear that seafood is the specialty here: crevette gravy and Georgia sausage – everything from oatmeal to eggs sautéed mushrooms and red peppers. And naturally, from the 5132 Biscayne Blvd., 305-756-3930 en sauce (steamed shrimp with Creole butter sauce), lambi Benedict, all in mountainous portions. The lunch menu is a roll rotisserie, there’s the zignature zuper chicken. $-$$ When this atmospheric little neighborhood oasis opened, fri (a mountain of perfectly tenderized fried conch), poisson call of the usual suspects, but most regulars ignore the menu the formula was Cuban cooking at lunch, Catalan tapas gros sel (local snapper in a spicy butter sauce), garlic or and go for the daily blackboard specials. $-$$ at night. The menu is now more uniform: contemporary Creole crabs. Note for ambiance-seekers: The Miami branch Upper Eastside Spanish and pan-Latin tapas, sandwiches, salads, sides, has outdoor tiki-hut dining; North Miami’s outlet, a former Sra. Martinez and entrées at all hours, just a far more elaborate selec- Carvel, has the same food but lacks the tropical charm. $-$$ 4000 NE 2nd Ave. Andiamo tion at night. The tapas list is especially impressive, with 305-573-5474 5600 Biscayne Blvd. all the usual Hispanic meat and cheese favorites but also Dogma Grill No Biscayne Corridor resident needs to be told that this lively 305-762-5751 an unusually large selection of seafood and vegetarian 7030 Biscayne Blvd. tapas bar, in the historic former Buena Vista Post Office, is www.andiamopizza.com items such as espinaca à la catalaña (spinach sautéed 305-759-3433 the second restaurant that Upper Eastside homegrrrl Michelle Sharing a building with a long-established Morningside car with pine nuts and raisins). Must-not-miss items include www.dogmagrill.com Bernstein has opened in the area. But know this: It’s not one wash, Andiamo is also part of Mark Soyka’s 55th Street ultra-creamy croquetas (ham, cheese, chicken, spinach, What could induce downtown businessmen to drive to the of her absentee celebrity-chef gigs. She is hands-on at both Station – which means ditching the car (in the complex’s or bacalao), grilled asparagus with aioli, and habit-forming Upper Eastside to eat at a few outdoor-only tables just feet from places on any given night. Bernstein’s exuberant yet firmly free lot across the road on NE 4th Court) is no problem even Brazilian cheese bread. $-$$$ the busy Boulevard? From the day it opened, people have been controlled personal touch is obvious in nearly four dozen hot if you’re not getting your vehicle cleaned while consuming lining up, even in summer’s sweltering heat, for this stand’s and cold tapas that, except for a few conventional entrées for the brick-oven pies (from a flaming open oven) that are this Captain Crab’s Take-Away sauce-garnished, all-beef, soy veggie, turkey, and chicken hot die-hards, make up the whole menu. Items are frequently rein- popular pizzeria’s specialty. Choices range from the simple 1100 NE 79th St., 305-754-2722 dogs. The 22 varieties range from simple (the Classic, with vented, depending on seasonal ingredients and diner feedback. namesake Andiamo (actually a Margherita) to the Godfather, The drive-through window says “fast food,” and so do this ketchup, relish, and chopped onion) to the elaborate (the Keepers include wild mushroom/manchego croquetas with fig a major meat monster. Extra toppings like arugula and goat long-lived seafood shack’s low prices. And indeed there are Athens, topped with a Greek salad, including extra-virgin olive oil jam (different from Michy’s, but equally flawless); white bean cheese enable diners to create their own designer pies. Also three Captain Crab’s Take-Aways (the others are in Carol City dressing) to near-unbelievable combinations like the VIP, which stew (duck/foie gras sausage and favas in an intense port wine available are salads and panini plus reasonably priced wines and Fort Lauderdale), all related to the sit-down Crab House includes parmesan cheese and crushed pineapple. $ reduction); crisp-coated artichokes with lemon/coriander dip; and beers (including a few unusually sophisticated selections restaurants. But there the resemblance to McFauxFood ends. simple but addictive Padron-style shishito peppers; and buttery like Belgium’s Hoegaarden). $$ For about the price of a bucket of the Colonel’s chicken you East Side Pizza bone marrow piqued with Middle Eastern spices and balanced can get a bucket of the Captain’s savory garlic crabs. The 731 NE 79th St. by tiny pickled salads. $$$ Anise Taverna King’s burger meal or the Captain’s similarly priced fried (or 305-758-5351 620 NE 78th St. garlic boiled or New Orleans-spiced) shrimp meal? No contest. Minestrone, sure. But a pizzeria menu with carrot ginger Tony Chan’s Water Club 305-758-2929 Also popular: crab cakes and conch (fried or in fritters and soup? Similarly many Italian-American pizzerias offer entrées 1717 N. Bayshore Dr. www.anisetaverna.com chowder). For fish haters, spicy or garlic chicken wings are an like spaghetti and meatballs, but East Side also has pumpkin 305-374-8888 In the past 15 years this river shack has housed at least five option; for kids, cut-price “first mate” meals. $-$$ ravioli in brown butter/sage sauce, wild mushroom ravioli, The décor at this upscale place, located in the Grand, a huge bay- different restaurants. Now new owners Liza and Gigi are bank- and other surprisingly upscale choices. The East Side Salad side condo/resort hotel, looks far too glitzy to serve anything but ing on Greek food and festivity being the concept that sticks Casa Toscana includes goat cheese, walnuts, and cranberries; quaffs politely Americanized Chinese food. The presentation is indeed -- a good bet, judging from their wildly popular previous eatery, 7001 Biscayne Blvd., 305-758-3353 include imported Peroni beer. As for the pizza, they are clas- elegant, but the American dumbing-down is minimal. Many Ouzo. The mainly mezze menu ranges from traditional Greek www.casatoscanamiami.com sic pies, available whole or by the slice, made with fresh plum dishes are far more authentic and skillfully prepared than those small plates like the pikilia (combo dip plate of tzatziki, tarama, Tuscan-born chef/owner Sandra Stefani cooked at Norman’s tomato sauce and Grande mozzarella (considered the top found elsewhere in Miami, like delicate but flavorful yu pan quail hummus, and smoky eggplant purée) or tender grilled octopus (and briefly ran the Indian Creek Hotel’s restaurant) before American pizza cheese). Best seating for eating is at the shel- (minced with mushrooms in lettuce cups). Moist sea bass fillet to creative Mediterranean-inspired dishes (like anise-scented opening this Upper Eastside jewel, a wine market/eatery tered outdoor picnic tables. $ has a beautifully balanced topping of scallion, ginger, cilantro, fish croquettes with spicy aioli) that never stray too far from whose 30 original seats have been supplemented by a wine and subtly sweet/salty sauce. And Peking duck is served as three the fold to remain evocative. But don’t neglect large plates like room/garden for tasting events and private dining. Stefani El Q-Bano Palacio de los Jugos traditional courses: crêpe-wrapped crispy skin, meat sautéed with whole grilled Mediterranean fish (dorade or branzino), filleted travels regularly to Italy to find exciting, limited-production 8650 Biscayne Blvd. crisp veggies, savory soup to finish. $$-$$$ tableside. The interior décor is charming, and the outdoor deck wines and inspiration for truly Tuscan-tasting daily special 305-758-2550 on the Little River is positively romantic. $$-$$$ dishes with honest, authentic flavors, such as grilled wild boar In case you were wondering if it’s too good to be true -- it isn’t. W Wine Bistro sausages with lentil croquettes. Favorites that show up often El Q-Bano’s owners are indeed related to the family that oper- 3622 NE 2nd Ave., 305-576-7775 Boteco on the menu include pear and ricotta raviolini with sage but- ates the original three Palacios de los Jugos -- which means Both bistro and retail wine shop, this Design District spot is 916 NE 79th St., 305-757-7735 ter sauce, grilled eggplant slices rolled around herbed goat no more schlepping way out west for the chicharrones against run by Florent Blanchet, an energetic young Frenchman who This strip of 79th Street, formerly known for its live bait and cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, and a light ricotta tart with which all others pale. Also recommended are moist tamales, was previously a wine distributor. His former gig led to connec- auto repair shops, is rapidly becoming a cool alt-culture lemon and rosemary. $$$ tasty sandwiches (especially the drippingly wonderful pan con tions that mean if wine lovers don’t find the bottle they want enclave thanks to inviting hangouts like this rustic indoor/out- lechon), rich flan, and the fresh tropical juices that justify the in W’s selection of roughly 200-labels (which emphasizes bou- door Brazilian restaurant and bar. Especially bustling on nights Che Sopranos aforementioned excesses. For even heartier eaters, there’s a tique and organic growers), Blanchet can probably get it within featuring live music, it’s even more fun on Sundays, when the 7251 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-8282 changing buffet of daily specials and sides. And those ordering 24 hours. Food is sophisticated light bites like a shrimp club fenced backyard hosts an informal fair and the menu includes This branch of a Miami Beach Italian/Argentine pizzeria, housed sandwich with pancetta and sun-dried tomato aioli; smoked Brazil’s national dish, feijoada, a savory stew of beans plus in a charming bungalow and featuring a breezy patio, covers Continued on page 53

52 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings Gourmet Station Luna Café Michy’s 7601 Biscayne Blvd., 305-762-7229 4770 Biscayne Blvd., 305-573-5862 6927 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-2001 Continued from page 52 Home-meal replacement, geared to workaholics with no time to www.lunacafemidtown.com Don’t even ask why Michele Bernstein, with a résumé that cook, has been trendy for years. But the Gourmet Station has out- The ground floor of the Wachovia Bank building may not includes top-chef gigs at upscale eateries like Azul, not to the combo platter of, basically, Cuba’s Greatest Hits had bet- lasted most of the competition. Main reason: deceptive healthi- seem a particularly evocative locale for an Italian eatery, mention regular Food Network appearances, opened a homey ter take advantage of the free delivery, since waddling home ness. These are meals that are good for you, yet taste good but once inside, the charming décor and the staff’s ebul- restaurant in an emerging (but far from fully gentrified) neigh- will be difficult. $-$$ enough to be bad for you. Favorite items include precision-grilled lient welcome indeed are reminiscent of a café in Italy. The borhood. Just be glad she did, as you dine on white almond salmon with lemon-dill yogurt sauce, and lean turkey meatloaf kitchen’s outstanding feature is a brick oven, which turns gazpacho or impossibly creamy ham and blue cheese croqu- Europa Car Wash and Café with homemade BBQ sauce – sin-free comfort food. For lighter out designer pizzas (greater in variety, lesser in cost on the etas. Though most full entrées also come in half-size portions 6075 Biscayne Blvd. eaters, there are wraps and salads with a large, interesting choice lunch menu, in effect till 4:30 p.m.) and crisp-skinned roast (at almost halved prices), the tab can add up fast. Table-to- 305-754-2357 of dressings. Food is available à la carte or grouped in multimeal chickens. Otherwise the menu holds few surprises – except table conversations about the food are common, something Giving new meaning to the food term “fusion,” Europa serves plans customized for individual diner’s nutritional needs. $$ the prices, surprisingly low for such a stylish place. No dish that only happens at exciting, if not flawless, restaurants. And up sandwiches, salads, car washes, coffee with croissants, exceeds $22. $$-$$$ at this one, the star herse lf is usually in the kitchen. Parking in and Chevron with Techron. Those who remember this former Hiro’s Sushi Express the rear off 69th Street. $$$-$$$$ no-frills filling station only as one of the Boulevard’s cheapest 5140 Biscayne Blvd. The Lunch Room sources of brand-name gas will be astonished at the invitingly 305-759-0914 7957 NE 2nd Ave., 305-722-0759 Metro expanded interior. Snacks match the casual chicness: sand- (See North Miami Beach listing) Hidden in Little Haiti, this Thai/Japanese spot, which opened 7010 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-1392 wiches like the Renato (prosciutto, hot cappicola, pepper jack in 2005, remains one of the Upper Eastside’s best-kept Big changes have come to Karma the car wash, the first being cheese, red peppers, and Romano cheese dressing); an elabo- Jimmy’s East Side Diner secrets. But chef Michelle Bernstein (of Michy’s) and other a separate new name for the revamped restaurant: Metro rate almond-garnished Chinese chicken salad; H&H bagels, the 7201 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-3692 knowledgeable diners wander over from the Boulevard for Organic Bistro. The owners proudly proclaim Metro to be world’s best, flown in from NYC. And the car cleanings — done Open for more than 30 years, Jimmy’s respects the most simple but perfect pad Thai, chili grouper (lightly battered fil- Miami’s first all-organic fine-dining restaurant, where simple by hand, not finish-scratching machines — are equally gentri- important American diner tradition: Breakfast at any hour. lets in a mouthwatering tangy/sweet/hot sauce), silky Asian preparations reveal and enhance natural flavors. An entirely fied, especially on Wednesday’s “Ladies Day,” when women Admittedly the place closes at 4:00 p.m., but still. There are eggplant slices in Thai basil sauce, and other remarkably new menu places emphasis on grilled organic meat and fish are pampered with $10 detail washes and glasses of sparkling blueberry hot cakes and pecan waffles for sweet-tooth eaters; low-priced specialties of Matilda Apirukpinyo, who operated dishes. Try the steak frites -- organic, grass-fed skirt steak wine while they wait. $ eggs any style, including omelets and open-face frittatas for a critically acclaimed South Beach Thai eatery in the 1990s. with organic chimichurri and fresh-cut fries. Vegetarians will those preferring savories; and a full range of sides: biscuits Though the casually cute indoor/outdoor place is only open love the organic portabella foccacia. Karma car wash is still in Garden of Eatin’ and sausage gravy, grits, hash, hash browns, even hot oat- for weekday lunches, “cantina” dinners can be ordered and operation, and a great wash with meticulous detailing takes 136 NW 62nd St. meal. Also available are traditional diner entrées (meat loaf, picked up after hours. $ time. But killing an hour or so at Metro a pleasure, either 305-754-8050 roast turkey, liver and onions), plus burgers, salad platters, inside the architect-designed restaurant or outdoors on the Low profile would be an understatement for this place. and homemade chicken soup. $-$$ Magnum Lounge patio. Beer and wine. $-$$$ Housed in a yellow building that’s tucked in back of 709 NE 79th St., 305-757-3368 a parking lot behind a small grocery store, it’s nearly Kingdom It’s a restaurant. It’s a lounge. But it’s decidedly not a typical Moonchine invisible from the street. Inside, though, it has the com- 6708 Biscayne Blvd., 305-757-0074 Miami restolounge, or like anything else in Miami. Forbidding 7100 Biscayne Blvd., 305-759-3999 fortable feel of a beach bar, and generous servings of This newly renovated, indoor/outdoor sports bar serves low- from the outside, it is, inside, like a time-trip to Liza Minelli’s Like its Brickell-area older sibling Indochine, this friendly inexpensive Afro-Caribbean vegan food. Rastafari owner priced but high-quality steaks, plus more typical bar food that’s cabaret in pre-WWII Berlin, or what one imagines a fancy indoor/outdoor Asian bistro serves stylish fare from three Immanuel Tafari cooks up meat and dairy-free specials, actually far from the usual premade, processed stuff. Philly 1930s Manhattan supper club must have been like: bordello nations: Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Menus are also simi- like Jamaican pumpkin/chayote stew in coconut milk, cheese steak sandwiches, big enough for two, are made from red décor, romantically dim lighting, show-tune live piano lar, split between traditional dishes like pad Thai and East/ that depend on what looks good at that morning’s pro- hand-sliced rib eye; sides include fries and beer-battered onion bar entertainment, and to match the ambiance, elegantly West fusion creations like the Vampire sushi roll (shrimp duce market. Large or small plates, with salad and fried rings, but also lightly lemony sautéed spinach. And the burgers updated retro food served with style and a smile. For those tempura, tomato, cilantro, roasted garlic). But the café also sweet plantains (plus free soup for eat-in lunchers), are rule, particularly the Doomsday, a cheese/ bacon/mushroom- feeling flush, home-style fried chicken is just like mom used carves out its own identity with original creations, including served for five or seven bucks. Also available are snacks topped two-pound monster that turns dinner into a competitive to make -- in her wildest dreams. For bargain-seekers, rich yellow curry-spiced Moonchine fried rice or Popeye’s Salad like vegetarian blue corn tacos, desserts like sweet pota- sport. But even the smallest Queenburger (a half-pounder French onion soup, with a varied bread basket, is a great (spicy tuna, avocado, spinach, masago roe, sesame seeds, to pie, and a breakfast menu featuring organic blueberry that’s no sissy) is a perfectly seasoned contender. No hard value. The clientele is largely gay, but everyone is most waffles with soy sausage patties. $ liquor, but the beer list makes up for it. $$ welcome. $$$ Continued on page 54 JUST OPENED!

Take-out Delivery! Great Food, & perfect ambiance & beautiful artwork... all in the same place. we do catering! 3221 NE 2 Ave MIDTOWN 786.953.8003/4 open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner from 11am to 1am

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 53 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings Red Light Sinuhé) of Cane á Sucre – now defunct, but one of 7700 Biscayne Blvd., 305-757-7773 Midtown Miami’s first cool, contemporary cafés – this NORTH BAY VILLAGE Continued from page 53 Only in Miami: From the rustic al fresco deck of chef Kris more ambitious yet casual outdoor/indoor Euro-café and Wessel’s intentionally downwardly mobile retro-cool riverfront lounge serves the same purpose on the Upper Eastside, Barchetta on the Bay and a scrumptious sweet/hot kimchee dressing). Nearly restaurant, located in a refurbished old motel, you can enjoy helping to transform a commuter strip into a hip place to 1601 79th St. Causeway, 305-861-2228 everything is low in sodium, fat, and calories – except des- regional wildlife like manatees (Florida’s own half mammal/ hang out. The menu has grown more sophisticated along Location, location, location. The truth of the old real estate cliché serts (notably the chocolate bomb). There’s also an impres- half meatloaf) while enjoying eclectic regional dishes that range with the neighborhood. Lunch includes a variety of salads could not be better illustrated than at this reasonably priced sive sake list, too. Coming soon: a large rear patio for dining from cutting-edge (sour-orange-marinated, sous-vide-cooked and elegant sandwiches like La Minuta (beer-battered Italian restaurant. While pastas like lobster ravioli in tomato/ and entertainment. $$-$$$ Florida lobster with sweet corn sauce) to comfort (crispy- mahi-mahi with cilantro aioli and caramelized onions on cream vodka sauce are under $20, and no meat or seafood breaded Old South fried green tomatoes). The menu is limited, housemade foccacia). Dinner features a range of small entrée exceeds $30, the spectacular setting on Biscayne Bay is Moshi Moshi which makes sense with a chef-driven place; and it changes plates (poached figs with Gorgonzola cheese and honey priceless. Floor to ceiling picture windows serve as the expansive 7232 Biscayne Blvd. daily, which also makes sense at an ingredient-driven place. But balsamic drizzle) and full entrées like sake-marinated indoor dining space’s rear wall, but the primo seats are outdoors, 786-220-9404 several signature specialties, if they’re available, are not to be salmon with boniato mash, Ponzu butter sauce, and crispy in sheltered banquettes and patio tables where the water view, “Spruced up” is a supreme understatement for the space, missed: BBQ shrimp in a tangy Worcestershire and cayenne- spinach. Drink specials and live music on weekends. and carefree tropical party feel, is unimpeded. $$-$$$$ formerly the Haitian hole-in-the-wall Fidele. Now a boutique spiked butter/wine sauce, irresistible mini conch fritters, and $$-$$$ Japanese eatery, this younger sibling of South Beach homemade ice cream. $$-$$$ Bocados Ricos old-timer Moshi Moshi is a cross between a sushi bar Ver-Daddys Taco Shop 1880 79th St. Causeway; 305-864-4889 and an izakaya (Japanese tapas bar). Even more striking Royal Bavarian Schnitzel Haus 7501 Biscayne Blvd. Tucked into a mall best known for housing the Happy Stork than the hip décor is the food’s unusually upscale quality. 1085 NE 79th St., 305-754-8002 305-303-9755 Lounge, this little luncheonette joint services big appetites. But this isn’t surprising given the owners’ previous work: With Christmas lights perpetually twinkling and party At this soulful taco shop, the menu descriptions are in Along with the usual grilled churrascos, there’s an especially Toshi Furihata and Hiro Terada were executive chefs at noises emanating from a new outdoor biergarten, this common English (“cinnamon puffs” drizzled with honey belly-busting bandeja paisa (Colombia’s sampler platter of SushiSamba and Doraku; Yani Yuhara is an ex-Benihana German restaurant is owner Alex Richter’s one-man and lime, not “buñuelos”). But taco fillings range from the grilled steak, sausage, chicharron, fried egg, avocado, plantains, manager. Sushi ranges from pristine plain individual nigiri gentrification project, transforming a formerly uninvit- commonplace (ground beef, shredded chicken) to more rice, and beans). But do not miss marginally daintier dishes (all the usuals plus rarer finds like toro) to over-the-top ing stretch of 79th Street one pils at a time. The fare unusual pork in chili verde, fried potato, or Baja battered like sopa de costilla, if this rich shortrib bowl is among the daily maki rolls like the signature Moshi Moshi (tuna, white tuna, includes housemade sausages (mild veal bratwurst, fish (authentically garnished with Mexican crema and changing homemade soups. Arepas include our favorite corn salmon, avocado, masago, tempura flakes, spicy mayo). hearty mixed beef/pork bauernwurst, spicy garlicwurst) cilantro-spiked cabbage). And all offerings can be loaded cake: the hefty Aura, stuffed with chorizo, chicharron, carne Tapas also go beyond standards like edamame to intrigu- with homemade mustard and catsup; savory yet near- with other garnishes from the kitchen (refried beans, desmechada (shredded flank steak), plantains, rice, beans, ing dishes like arabiki sausage, a sweet-savory pork finger- greaseless potato pancakes; and, naturally, schnitzels, a cheese, crema) or less perishable offerings from a salsa and cheese. Garnished with even more over-the-top abandon ling frank with a superior pop/spurt factor; rarely found in choice of delicate pounded pork, chicken, or veal patties bar. For the heath-minded, oils are nonhydrogenated, are Colombian-style hot dogs like the Perro Rico, topped with restaurants even in Japan, they’re popular Japanese home- served with a half-dozen different sauces. $$-$$$ and sauces/seasonings are all housemade and free of chicharron, chorizo, cheese, a quail egg, and pineapple to can- cooking items. And rice-based plates like Japanese curry preservatives. $ cel out the cholesterol. Ha! But who cares? Strap on the med (richer/sweeter than Indian types) satisfy even the biggest Soyka emergency bracelet and bring it on. $-$$ appetites. $-$$$ 5556 NE 4th Court Wine 69 305-759-3117; www.soykarestaurant.com 6909 Biscayne Blvd. Edy’s Chicken & Steak News Lounge This expansive, contemporary hangout was often cred- 305-759-0122 1624 79th St. Causeway 5582 NE 4th Ct. ited with almost single-handedly sparking the revitaliza- From the name, one might think this is just a wine shop. 305-864-9958 305-758-9932; www.the55thststation.com tion of the Biscayne Corridor’s Upper Eastside. Now It’s actually about wine, food, and art, and how they It might initially seem that the steaks (sirloin, filet, or a chewy Unlike South Beach’s News Café, Mark Soyka’s new News is, that the hype has calmed down, Soyka remains a solid work together. Wines, about 200 labels, are available “marucha” top round) are what differentiate Edy’s from Miami’s as its name suggests, more a friendly neighborhood hangout neighborhood restaurant that, like restaurateur Mark retail (at 35-50 percent of their marked prices, which are many other chicken joints. But what really makes the place and watering hole than a full-fledged eatery. Nevertheless the Soyka’s previous ventures (notably Ocean Drive’s pio- for in-house drinkers), with 40 sold by the glass. But the stand out is the signature Peruvian pollo a la brasa, char- limited menu of light bites is -- along with other entertaining neering News Café and the Van Dyke on Lincoln Road) place’s specialty is comparative flights of various wine broiled in a wood-fired rotisserie rather than simply plonked lures like an inviting outdoor patio, an intriguing music selection, is a perfect fit for its area. Comfortably priced yuppie types from different regions. Food, designed for pairing, on a grill. The rotation makes the bird self-baste, keeping even a 5:00-9:00 p.m. half-price deal on well drinks and selected comfort food like meatloaf with mashed potatoes, crab includes a new $25 three-course dinner. But the menu the delicate white meat juicy under its crispy, nearly fat-free beers, and rest rooms that resemble eclectic art galleries cakes with spicy-sweet slaw, a wild mushroom/smoked is mostly light bites with intriguingly inventive touches: a skin. Spicing is also superior. The original recipe of owner Edy -- part of the reason that almost all who drop in stay for hours. mozzarella pizza, or a Cobb salad may not be revolu- seared Cajun tuna salad with wasabi sauce; crab cakes Dernovsek’s secret dozen-ingredient marinade came from a Especially recommended snacks are fat mini-burgers with tionary fare, but Soyka continues to thrive while more with Asian sriracha chili sauce; a three-cheese soufflé. visit to Peru, but has been tweaked with typical spices from her chipotle ketchup; a brie, turkey, and mango chutney sandwich ambitious, nationally publicized restaurants like OLA Especially impressive are some nicely priced cheese/ hometown -- Chiang Mai, Thailand. The result is subtly mouth- on crusty baguette; and what many feel is the original café’s have come and gone. $$-$$$ charcuterie platters, served with fig tapenade, cornich- warming heat absent from average chain chickens. Nothing Greatest Hit: creamy hummus with warm pita. A beer list that ons, fresh fruits, bread, and multiple sauces. And the art leaps out at you, but there’s just enough of a taste-bud tease to includes Tucher on tap, plus high-octane Belgian brews like Sushi Siam part encompasses revolving exhibits, plus an art lecture make the poultry’s own flavors jump. For serious fire, green chili Duvel and Delirium Tremens, reminds diners that beer is food 5582 NE 4th Ct., 305-751-7818 series featuring wines picked by owner Ben Neji to com- sauce comes with all orders. $-$$ too. $ On the fairly standard menu of sushi-bar specialties plus a pliment the art. $$ small selection of Thai and Japanese cooked dishes, there Japanese Market and Sushi Deli Pineapple Blossom Tea Room are a few surprises, such as a unique lobster maki that’s Yiya’s Gourmet Cuban Bakery 1412 79th St. Causeway; 305-861-0143 8214 Biscayne Blvd., 305-754-8328 admittedly huge in price ($25.95), but also in size: six 646 NE 79th St., 305-754-3337 Inside a small market that is, nevertheless, widely consid- www.pineappleblossom.com ounces of crisp-fried lobster chunks, plus asparagus, avo- A true community jewel, this bakery is also a most ered Miami’s premier source of Japanese foodstuffs, the The interior of this pineapple-yellow building is a soothing cado, lettuce, tobiko (flying fish), masago (smelt) roes, and welcoming café, serving daily-changing bargain lunch “Sushi Deli” restaurant component is nothing more than a oasis offering traditional full English tea service – or a more special sauces. Also popular are red and orange dragon specials, from chef Delsa Bernardo (who co-owns the lunch counter to the left of the entrance. But chef Michio zingy tropical fruit-flavored Caribbean variation. Whether rolls, similarly sauced makis of fried shrimp plus veggies, place with attorney Abbie Cuellar), that are homemade Kushi, who worked for years at the Sushin, Miami’s first full- your chosen brew is steaming Earl Grey or pineapple- topped with, respectively, raw tuna and salmon. Thai right down to the herbs grown on the bakery’s window service Japanese restaurant, serves up some sushi found mint iced tea, the scones (with thick cream and jam), tea dishes come with a choice of more than a dozen sauces, sills. Bernardo’s pan con lechon sandwiches (slow-roasted nowhere else in town. Example: traditional Osaka-style sushi cakes, cookies, and desserts, are hometown treats. Owner ranging from traditional red or green curries to the inven- pork, onions, and secret marinade stuffed into fresh- – layers of rice, seasoned seaweed, more rice, and marinat- Frances Brown is a pastry chef. There’s more substantial tive, such as an unconventional honey sauce. $$$ baked Cuban bread) and flaky-crusted sweet or savory ed fresh mackerel, pressed into a square box, then cut into fare, too. Innovative wraps like Caribbean shrimp salad Cuban pastries are legend. But she also crafts treats lovely one-bite sandwich squares. While raw fish is always with tropical fruit salsa; salads such as warm goat cheese UVA 69 not found at average Cuban bakeries, like inventive piz- impeccable here, some unusual vegetarian sushi creations with fresh greens, tomatoes, dried cranberries, and can- 6900 Biscayne Blvd. zas using housemade Indian naan bread. Additionally also tempt, as do daily entrées, like curried beef stew, that died cashews. Also offered are tempting take-out baskets 305-754-9022 Bernardo carries unique treats produced by a few friends: typify Japanese home cooking. $ like the Tea for Two (with tea, jam, scones, and cookies), www.uva-69.com candies, cupcakes, exotically flavored flans, and artful great for gifts or for at-home teas. $-$$ Owned by the Vega brothers (chef Michael and artist specialty cakes from Harry Bakes. $ Continued on page 55

54 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings (especially at lunch), you might as well let the man’s impeccably soups, full meals in a bowl. But veggies and garnishes vary, and NORTH BEACH trained kitchen staff do the work for you. $$-$$$ this modest Colombian eatery is a handy spot to comparison-test Continued from page 54 such typical stews. Adventuresome eaters may want to try another Ariston Saturday special, mondongo (tripe soup, similar to Mexico’s Mario the Baker 940 71st St., 305-864-9848 MIAMI SHORES menudo). For Colombian-cuisine novices, a Bandeja Paisa (sam- 1700 79th St. Causeway It took a Greek place (Ouzo’s, which moved to bigger SoBe pler including rice, beans, carne asada, chicharron, eggs, sautéed 305-867-7882 quarters in 2007) to break the curse of this former restaurant Iron Sushi sweet plantains, and an arepa corn cake) is available every day, as (See North Miami listing) jinx location. And Ariston continues the lucky streak with clas- 9432 NE 2nd Ave. are antojitos – “little whims,” smaller snacks like chorizo con arepa sical Greek cuisine based on recipes of co-owner Thanasis 305-754-0311 (a corn cake with Colombian sausage). And for noncarnivores there Oggi Caffe Barlos’s mom Noni Barlou, and executed by CIA-trained chef www.ironsushi.com are several hefty seafood platters, made to order. $$ 1666 79th St. Causeway Alexia Apostolidis. Skip the menu’s puzzling Italianesque and With three Biscayne Corridor outlets (plus several branches 305-866-1238 generic Euro-American selections and concentrate on authentic elsewhere in town), this mostly take-out mini chain is fast Bagels & Co. www.oggicaffe.com treats like the lightest, most savory whipped tarama (caviar becoming the Sushi Joint That Ate Miami. And why do 11064 Biscayne Blvd., 305-892-2435 This cozy, romantic spot started back in 1989 as a pasta spread) west of Athens; ultra-rich tzatziki (Greek yogurt with Miamians eat here? Not ambiance. There isn’t any. But when While this place is often referred to as Guns & Bagels, one can’t factory (supplying numerous high-profile restaurants) as cukes, garlic, and olive oil); bracing avgolemono (egg-thickened friends from the Pacific Northwest, where foodies know their actually buy a gun here. The nickname refers to its location next well as a neighborhood eatery. And the wide range of bud- chicken/lemon soup); char-grilled sardines with greens and fish, tout the seafood’s freshness, we listen. And though the to a firearms shop. But there’s a lot of other stuff aside from get-friendly, homemade pastas, made daily, remains the citrus dressing; or an inspired eggplant/ground beef moussaka, bargain prices, and many menu items, are similar to those at bagels here, including a full range of sandwiches and wraps. main draw for its large and loyal clientele. Choices range bound here with an almost sinfully custardy béchamel. $$-$$$ other fast-food sushi places, there are some surprisingly imag- Breakfast time is busy time, with banana-walnut pancakes from homey, meaty lasagna to luxuriant crab ravioli with inative makis, like the Maharaja, featuring fried shrimp and especially popular. But what’s most important is that this is one creamy lobster sauce, with occasional forays into creative Café Prima Pasta drizzles of curry mayo. And where else will you find a stacked of the area’s few sources of the real, New York-style water bagel: exotica such as seaweed spaghettini (with sea scallops, 414 71st St., 305-867-0106, www.primapasta.com sushi (five assorted makis) birthday cake? $-$$ crunchy outside, challengingly chewy inside. Those puffy half- shitakes, and fresh tomatoes). For those tempted by too Opened in 1993 with 28 seats, this family-run North Beach land- donuts most places pass off as bagels aren’t even contenders. $ much, ultra-accommodating servers have been known to mark has now taken over the block, with an outdoor terrace and Côte Gourmet allow half orders of two pastas. $$-$$$ multi-roomed indoor space whose walls are full of photos of their 9999 NE 2nd Ave., #112 Bamboche clientele (including national and local celebs). Particularly popular 305-754-9012 13408 Biscayne Blvd, 305-947-6339 Shuckers Bar & Grill are homemade pastas, sauced with Argentine-Italian indulgence If every Miami neighborhood had a neighborhood restaurant Buried in a strip mall perpendicular to the Boulevard, Bamboche 1819 79th St. Causeway rather than Italian simplicity: crabmeat ravioletti in lobster cream like this low-priced little French jewel, it’d be one fantastic is worth the hunt on one of those head-splitting Saturdays, for a 305-866-1570 sauce, black squid ink linguini heaped with seafood. Veal dishes, food town. The menu is mostly simple stuff: breakfast Haitian specialty not found in many area restaurants: bouillon tet “Cheap eats and a million-dollar view” is the sound bite such as piccata with white wine-lemon-caper sauce, are also a croissants, crêpe, soups, sandwiches, salads, sweets, and cabrit, a soup packed with greens (like spinach, cabbage, cress, manager Philip Conklin uses to describe this outdoor beach specialty. Though romantic enough for dates, the place is quite kid- a few more substantial specials like a Tunisian-style brik string beans) and root veggies that is reputed to be a miraculous bar, hidden in back of a bayfront motel. The joint dates from friendly — and on the terrace, they’ll even feed Fido. $$$ (buttery phyllo pastry stuffed with tuna, onions, potatoes, hangover remedy. Along with bouillon, weekend specials include South Beach’s late 1980s revival, but the kick-off-your-shoes and tomatoes) with a mesclun side salad. But everything is more unusual dishes like fritay, fried street snacks. Haitian stan- vibe – not to mention the pool tables and jukebox – couldn’t Tamarind Thai homemade, including all breads, and prepared with impec- dards (griot, tassot) are available daily, as are fresh-squeezed be farther from SoBe glitz. The food ranges from classic bar 946 Normandy Dr. cable ingredients, classic French technique, and meticulous juices, lattes, and almost two dozen desserts. $ favorites (char-grilled wings, conch fritters, raw or steamed 305-861-6222; www.tamarindthai.us attention to detail, down to the stylish plaid ribbons that hold shellfish) to full dinners featuring steak, homemade pasta, When an eatery’s executive chef is best-selling Thai cookbook together the café’s baguette sandwiches. $-$$ Bar-B-Que Beach Sports Bar & Grill or fresh, not frozen, fish. And since about half of the estab- author Vatcharin Bhumichitr, you’d expect major media hype, fancy 12599 Biscayne Blvd., 305-895-3141 lishment is sheltered, the bites and bay view rock even when South Beach prices, and a fancy SoBe address. Instead Bhumichitr On Friday nights, there’s karaoke at this expansive eatery, though the weather sucks. $-$$ joined forces with Day Longsomboon (an old Thai school pal who’d NORTH MIAMI from the décor -- mixing Wild West rusticity with Key West flip- moved to Miami) at this unpretentious, authentic (no sushi) neigh- flops dangling from the ceiling -- it’s hard to know whether to Sushi Siam borhood place. Some standout dishes here (like shrimp and corn Los Antojos brush up your Jimmy Buffett medley or “Tumbling Tumbleweeds.” 1524 NE 79th St. Causeway, 305-864-7638 cakes with plum sauce, deep-fried sweet and sour fish, and roast 11099 Biscayne Blvd.; 305-892-1411 There are specials the other six days of the week as well, (See Miami / Upper Eastside listing) duck with tamarind sauce) are featured in the chef’s latest tome, If it’s Sunday, it must be sancocho de gallina, Colombia’s national Vatch’s Thai Kitchen, but with Tamarind’s very affordable prices dish. If it’s Saturday, it must be ajiaco. Both are thick chicken Continued on page 56

AuthenticAuthentic Creole Creole CuisineCuisine

CateringCatering Available Available 305.899.2729305.899.2729

13105 West Dixie Hwy. 200 NW 54th Street NorthNorth Miami, FL 33161 Miami, FL 33127 305.893.4246 305.754.2223

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 55 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings nautical side dining room with booths, and more pie, and, oddly, a whole section of Caesar salad variations. But it’s an impressive poisson gros sel (a whole fish rubbed with salt recently added, a sushi bar stocked largely with flown- also a secret source for Chinese food, mostly chow mien/chop before poaching with various veggies and spices). But the dish Continued from page 55 in Japanese fish just as pristine as the local catch. suey-type dishes, but also a few dishes such as eggplant with garlic that still packs the place is the griot: marinated pork chunks Whether it’s garlicky scampi (made with sweet Key sauce and ma po tofu that are a step up in authenticity. $-$$ simmered and then fried till they’re moistly tender inside, crisp from early-bird discounts to open-mike nights to kids-eat-free West shrimp), housemade smoked fish dip, grilled yel- and intensely flavored outside. $ Tuesdays. But don’t forget the biggest draw: the barbecue, hon- lowtail (or some more exotic local snapper, like hog or Hanna’s Gourmet Diner est stuff that has been low-temperature smoked for 12 to 14 mutton), perfectly tenderized cracked conch, or conch 13951 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-2255 Lime Fresh Mexican Grill hours till tender yet resilient. Ribs are meaty (except for the aptly fritters (with just enough batter to bind the big chunks When Sia and Nicole Hemmati bought the Gourmet Diner from 3201 N. Miami Ave. (Shops at Midtown) named, bargain-priced “bucket of bones,” and while chopped of Bahamian shellfish), everything is deftly prepared retiring original owner Jean-Pierre Lejeune in the late 1990s, 305-576-5463 pork may not totally satisfy North Carolina pulled pork purists, and bargain-priced. $$ they added “Hanna’s” to the name, but changed little else (See Midtown / Wynwood / Design District listing) nothing within a 1000-mile drive ever does. Biggest winners: suc- about this retro-looking French/American diner, a north Miami- culent sliced brisket and delightfully juicy chicken. $$ Casa Mia Trattoria Dade institution since 1983. Customers can get a cheese- Little Havana 1950 NE 123rd St. burger or garlicky escargots, meatloaf in tomato sauce or boeuf 12727 Biscayne Blvd. Bulldog Barbecue 305-899-2770 bourguignon in red wine sauce, iceberg lettuce and tomatoes, 305-899-9069 15400 Biscayne Blvd., 305-940-9655 Tucked away, off to the side on the approach to the Broad or a mushroom and squid salad with garlic dressing. For oysters www.littlehavanarestaurant.com www.bulldog-bbq.com Causeway and the beaches, this charming indoor/outdoor Rockefeller/tuna-melt couples from Venus and Mars, it remains In addition to white-tablecoth ambiance that’s several steps up in ele- The BBQ master at this small, rustic room is pugnacious Top trattoria seems to attract mostly neighborhood regulars. the ideal dinner date destination. $$-$$$ gance from the majority of neighborhood eateries, this place features Chef contender Howie Kleinberg, whose indoor electric smoker But even newcomers feel like regulars after about ten live Latin entertainment and dancing, making it a good choice when turns out mild-tasting ’cue that ranges from the expected minutes here, thanks to the staff’s genuinely Italian ebul- Here Comes the Sun diners want a night out, not just a meal. It’s also a good choice for (pulled pork, ribs, brisket, chicken) to oughta-be-expected lience. The delightful Italian accents don’t hurt, either. As 2188 NE 123rd St. diners who don’t speak Spanish, but don’t worry about authenticity. stuff like hot-smoked salmon or smoked veggie plates for for the menu offerings, they’re mostly classic comfort foods 305-893-5711 Classic Cuban home-style dishes like mojo-marinated lechon asado, noncarnivores. There are also creative comfort food starters with some contemporary items as well. Housemade pastas At this friendly natural foods establishment, one of Miami’s topped with onions, and juicy ropa vieja are translated on the menu, like BBQ chicken flatbread, salads, and sweets. Sides include are good enough that low-carb dieters should definitely first, there’s a full stock of vitamins and nutritional supple- not the plate, and fancier creations like pork filet in tangy tamarind refreshing slaw; beans studded with “burnt ends,” (the most temporarily fuhgeddaboudit, especially for the tender gnoc- ments. But the place’s hearty soups, large variety of entrées sauce seem universal crowd-pleasers. $$$ intensely flavored outer barbecue chunks); and sweet potato or chi with pesto or better yet, delicate fagottini -- “beggar’s (including fresh fish and chicken as well as vegetarian selec- chipotle-spiced fries (frozen, not fresh-made, but foolproof). The purses” stuffed with pears and cheese. $$ tions), lighter bites like miso burgers with secret “sun sauce” Maleewan Thai & Sushi barbecue’s cost is high compared to most places, but such is (which would probably make old sneakers taste good), and 2224 NE 123rd St. the price of fame. $$-$$$ Chéen-huyae daily specials are a tastier way to get healthy. An under-ten- 305-895-0393 15400 Biscayne Blvd., 305-956-2808 buck early-bird dinner is popular with the former long-hair, Redecorated (tasteful bamboo-matted walls, silk flowers) since the Burritos Grill Café Diners can get some of the usual Tex-Mex dishes at this now blue-hair, crowd. Frozen yogurt, fresh juices, and smooth- days — many days — this space was occupied by the kosher sushi 11717 Biscayne Blvd., 305-891-1041 cute spot, if they must. But the specialty is Mayan-rooted ies complete the menu. $-$$ spot Tani Guchi’s Place, Maleewan is now a cozy, neighborly nook www.burritosgrillcafe Yucatan cuisine. So why blow bucks on burritos when one at which to enjoy all the standard Japanese and Thai selections. Originally a friendly little 125th Street hole-in-the-wall that can sample Caribbean Mexico’s most typical dish: cochinita Ichi Cooked sushi is the strong suit here, particularly the signature garnered raves for its limited menu of terrifically tasty treats, pibil? It’s currently LA’s trendiest taco filling (and morning- 13488 Biscayne Blvd. mammoth-size Maleewan roll, given zing by pickled Japanese Mario and Karina Manzanero’s café is now in more siz- after hangover remedy). But that city couldn’t have a more 305-944-9334 squash and savor by a crispy yellowtail tempura topping. If you’re able and atmospheric quarters. But the friendly, family-run authentically succulent version of the pickle-onion-topped Half sushi/sashimi, half cooked Japanese dishes, the craving more creative fare, check out the handwritten specials (and kid-friendly) ambiance remains, as do the authentic marinated pork dish than Chéen’s – earthily aromatic menu is relatively small but covers most of the traditional board on your way in. $$ Yucatan-style specialties. Standouts include poc-chuc, a pork from achiote, tangy from bitter oranges, meltingly tender favorites and a few surprises. Popular makis include the loin marinated in sour orange juice and topped with pickled from slow cooking in a banana leaf wrap. To accompany, Dream (shrimp tempura, avocado, Japanese mayo, and Mama Jennie’s onions and chiltomate sauce (roasted tomato/chili); tacos al try a lime/soy/chili-spiced michelada, also authentically masago), the vegetarian Popeye spicy spinach roll, and the 11720 NE 2nd Ave. pastor, stuffed with subtly smoky steak, onion, cilantro, and Mexican, and possibly the best thing that ever happened to deep-fried Crispy, a riceless salmon and veggie roll. Among 305-757-3627 pineapple; sinful deep-fried tacos dorados (like fat flautas); dark beer. $$-$$$ cooked items, there’s a large list of teriyakis, and a few For more than 35 years this beloved red-sauce joint has been and signature burritos, including the Maya, filled with juicy dishes prepared with a different twist – panko-breaded drawing students and other starvation-budget diners with pro- cochinita pibil, refried beans, and pickled onions. $$ Chef Creole pork or chicken katsu cutlets, for instance, that eschew the digious portions of lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs (the latter 13105 W. Dixie Hwy.; 305-893-4246 standard sweet sauce for curry. $$ savory yet light-textured), veal marsala topped with a mountain Canton Café (See Miami listing) of mushrooms, and other Italian-American belly-busters. All 12749 Biscayne Blvd. Jerusalem Market and Deli pasta or meat entrées come with oil-drenched garlic rolls and 305-892-2882 Chipotle Mexican Grill 16275 Biscayne Blvd. either soup (hearty minestrone) or a salad (mixed greens, toma- Easily overlooked, this strip-mall spot serves mostly Cantonese- 14776 Biscayne Blvd., 305-947-2779 305-948-9080 toes, cukes, brined olives, and pickled peppers) that’s a dinner based dishes, ranging from all the old Chinese-American classics www.chipotle.com Specialties like shawarma, spinach pies, kebabs, hum- in itself. Rustic roadhouse ambiance, notably the red leather- (chop suey, moo goo gai pan, pu pu platters) through newer Proving that national fast-food chains don’t have to be bad mus, and kibbeh (a savory mix of ground lamb and bulgur, ette booths, add to Mama’s charm. $-$$ Americanized fusion favorites like honey garlic chicken, teriyaki for either diners or the environment, Chipotle serves what arguably the world’s most interesting meatball) are native beef, and crab Rangoon. But there are also about two dozen spic- the company calls “food with integrity.” The fare is simple, to many Middle East countries, but when a Lebanese Mario the Baker ier, Szechuan-style standards like kung po shrimp, ma po tofu, basically tacos and big burritos: soft flour or crisp corn chef/owner, like this eatery’s Sam Elzoor, is at the helm, 250 NE 25th St. and General Tso’s chicken. And there are a few imaginative new tortillas stuffed with chipotle-marinated steak or chicken you can expect extraordinary refinement. There are elabo- 305-891-7641 items, like the intriguingly christened “Shrimp Lost in the Forest,” chunks, bolder shredded beef barbacoa, or herb-scented rate daily specials here, like lemon chicken or stuffed cab- www.mariothebakerpizza.com Singapore curried rice noodles, crispy shrimp with honey-glazed pork carnitas, all with choice of fresh garnishes. But these bage with a variety of sides, but even a common falafel At this North Miami institution (opened in 1969) food is walnuts, and Mongolian beef (with raw chilis and fresh Oriental bites contain no evil ingredients (transfats, artificial color/ sandwich is special when the pita is also stuffed with Italian-American, not Italian-Italian: spaghetti and meatballs, basil). Delivery is available for both lunch and dinner. $$ flavor, antibiotics, growth hormones). Additionally, all pork, housemade cabbage and onion salads, plus unusually lasagna, eggplant parmigiana, and hot or cold subs. No plus a large and growing percentage of the grill’s beef and rich and tart tahina. For home cooks, there’s also a lim- imported buffala, arugula, or other chichi stuff on the New Captain Jim’s Seafood poultry, is raised via humane and ecologically sustainable ited selection of imported spices and staples. $-$$ York-style medium-thin-crusted pizzas; the top topping here 12950 W. Dixie Hwy. methods. And the food, while not the authentic Mex street is the savory housemade sausage. And no one leaves with- 305-892-2812 stuff dreams are made of, is darned tasty, too. $ Le Griot de Madame John out garlic rolls, awash in warm parsley oil and smashed gar- This market/restaurant was garnering critical acclaim 975 NE 125th St. lic ($4 a dozen, $3 per half-dozen, which won’t even last the even when eat-in dining was confined to a few Formica D.J.’s Diner 305-892-9333 ride home). New branches are now open in Miami’s Midtown tables in front of the fish counter, owing to the fresh- 12210 Biscayne Blvd., 305-893-5250 When Madame moved her base of operations from her Little neighborhood and in North Bay Village. $ ness of its seafood (much of it from Capt. Jim Hanson’s Located in a Best Western motel, this place, run by a Chinese- Haiti home to a real restaurant (though a very informal one, own fishing boats, which supply many of Miami’s most American family, serves mostly basic American diner fare – burg- and still mostly take-out), she began offering numerous tradi- upscale eateries). Now there’s a casual but pleasantly ers, sandwiches, about a dozen dinner entrées, fresh-baked apple tional Haitian dishes, including jerked beef or goat tassot and Continued on page 57 ORIGINAL BAVARIAN BIER GARTEN OPEN DAILY FROM 5:00PM TO 11:00PM FRIDAY &SATURDAY TO MIDNIGHT

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

56 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings La Paloma yet another Latin-influenced grill replaced one of our area’s York-style, but the dough is made fresh daily, and the 10999 Biscayne Blvd. few Vietnamese restaurants, it’s hard to bear a grudge at cheese is Grande (from Wisconsin, considered America’s Continued from page 56 305-891-0505 a friendly, casual neighborhood place that offers monster finest pizza topper). Also on the menu are Italian-American Step into La Paloma and you’ll be stepping back in time, ten-ounce char-grilled burgers, with potatoes or salad, for pastas, a large selection of hot an cold subs, simple sal- The Melting Pot circa 1957. Adorned with antiques (some even real) and $8.50; steaks, plus a side and a sauce or veg topper, for ads, and a few new protein adds – grilled chicken breast, 15700 Biscayne Blvd. chandeliers, the over-the-top plush décor was the American nine bucks at lunch, $15 to $18.75 (the menu’s top price) fried fish, or a steak. $-$$ 305-947-2228 fine-dining ideal – half a century ago (though actually the at night; and three-dollar glasses of decent house wine. www.meltingpot.com place only dates from the 1970s). Cuisine is similarly retro- Many other grilled meat and seafood items are also offered, Wong’s Chinese Restaurant For 1950s and 1960s college students, fondue pots were luxe: old-fashioned upscale steaks, chops, and lobster, plus plus pastas, salads, gooey desserts, and specials (events as 12420 Biscayne Blvd. standard dorm accessories. These days, however, branches fancier Continental fare. If you have a yen for chateaubriand, well as food). $-$$ 305-891-4313 of this chain (originating in Maitland, Florida, in 1975) are duck a l’orange, oysters Rockefeller, French onion soup, This old-timer’s menu reads like a textbook on how to please generally the only places to go for this blast-from-the-past trout almondine, wiener schnitzel, and peach Melba, it’s the Steve’s Pizza everyone, with food ranging from traditional Chinese to eating experience. Fondues are available à la carte or as full only place in town that can deliver them all. A huge wine list 12101 Biscayne Blvd. Chinese-American to just plain American. Appetizers include dip-it-yourself meals. Start with a wine-enriched four-cheese fuels the fantasy. $$$$ 305-891-0202 honey garlic chicken wings or Buffalo wings. A crab-claw fondue; proceed to an entrée with choice of meat or sea- At the end of a debauched night of excess, some paper-thin starter comes with choice of pork fried rice or French fries. food, plus choice of cooking potion – herbed wine, bouillon, Paquito’s designer pizza with wisps of smoked salmon (or similar fluff) Seafood lovers can get shrimp chop suey, or salty pep- or oil; finish with fruits and cakes dipped in your favorite 16265 Biscayne Blvd. doesn’t do the trick. Open till 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., Steve’s has, per shrimp (authentically shell-on). And snowbirds will be melted chocolate. Fondue etiquette dictates that diners who 305-947-5027 since 1974, been serving the kind of comforting, retro pizzas pleased to find a number of dishes that are mainstays of drop a skewer in the pot must kiss all other table compan- From the outside, this strip-mall Mexican eatery couldn’t be people crave at that hour. As in Brooklyn, tomato sauce is Manhattan Szechuan menus but not common in Miami: cold ions, so go with those you love. $$$ easier to overlook. Inside, however, its festivity is impossible sweet, with strong oregano flavor. Mozzarella is applied with sesame noodles, Hunan chicken, twice-cooked pork, Lake to resist. Every inch of wall space seems to be covered with abandon. Toppings are stuff that give strength: pepperoni, Tung Ting shrimp, and peppery kung po squid. $$ North One 10 South of the Border knickknacks. And if the kitschy décor alone sausage, meatballs, onions, and peppers. $ 11052 Biscayne Blvd. doesn’t cheer you, the quickly arriving basket of fresh (not Woody’s Famous Steak Sandwich 305-893-4211 packaged) taco chips, or the mariachi band, or the knockout Sun City Café 13105 Biscayne Blvd. www.northone10.com margaritas will. Food ranges from Tex-Mex burritos and a party- 15400 Biscayne Blvd. 305-891-1451 For most chefs a Miami-to-Manhattan move is generally con- size fajita platter to authentic Mexican moles and harder-to-find 305-940-6955 The griddle has been fired up since 1954 at this indie fast- sidered one of those offers you can’t refuse. But after helming traditional preparations like albóndigas – spicy, ultra-savory Super-stuffed crêpes, made to order from scratch, are the food joint, and new owners have done little to change the several NYC restaurants for China Grill Management, the meatballs. $$-$$$ main specialty here – some sweet (the Banana Split: fresh time-tested formula except to stretch operating hours into the homegrown married team of chef Dewey and sommelier Dale strawberries, sliced bananas, candied walnuts, ice cream, night and expand its classic griddled-or-fried-things menu to LoSasso returned to do their own thing in their own neighbor- Pasha’s and Nutella or dulce de leche), some savory (the Sun include a few health-conscious touches like Caesar salad, plus hood. The menu is “creative comfort food”: a shrimp waffle with 14871 Biscayne Blvd. City Steak: beef, mushrooms, onions, red peppers, Swiss a note proclaiming their oils are free of trans fats. Otherwise the basil butter; “steak and eggs” (a grilled NY strip with truffled goat 786-923-2323 cheese, and A1 sauce). But there’s also a smaller selection famous steak sandwich is still a traditional Philly – thin-sliced cheese frittata, herb demiglace, and hash browns); a stone crab www.pashas.com of custom-crafted wraps, salads, sandwiches, and sides, beef, cheese, and onions on a buttered Italian roll (with tasty hot dog the chef invented for a Super Bowl party. The award- (See Miami: Brickell / Downtown listing) plus smoothies, coffee drinks, even beer or wine. Free Wi-Fi housemade sour cream/horseradish sauce served on the winning wine list inspires playfully themed pairing events like an encourages long, lingering lunches. $ side so as not to offend purists). Extras like mushrooms are Italian food/wine “Godfather” dinner. But it’s not South Beach, Paul Bakery Café possible, not imposed. Drippin’ good burgers, too. And unlike so prices are reasonable, and parking is free. $$$-$$$$ 14861 Biscayne Blvd. Sushi House MacChain addicts, patrons here can order a cold beer with the 305-940-4443 15911 Biscayne Blvd. good grease. $-$$ Nuvo Kafe www.paulusa.com 305-947-6002 13152 W. Dixie Hwy. From one rural shop in 1889, the French bakery known sim- In terms of décor drama, this sushi spot seems to have Zipang 305-892-1441 ply as Paul has grown to a worldwide chain, which fortunately taken its cue from Philippe Starck: Delano-like sheer floor-to- 14316 Biscayne Blvd. Though the neighborhood is decidedly ungentrified, the interior chose to open its first U.S. outlet in our town. One bite of the ceiling drapes, for starters. The sushi list, too, is over the top, 305-919-8844 of this café is an oasis of cultivated Caribbean cool and subtly crusty peasant loaf, the olive-studded fougasse, or another featuring monster makis: the Cubbie Comfort (spicy tuna, It’s appropriate that the name of this small strip-mall sushi sophisticated global fare. Haitian-born, Montreal-schooled chef of the signature artisan breads transports you right back to soft-shell crab, shrimp and eel tempura, plus avocado, jala- spot refers to Japan’s first and only sparkling sake – some- Ivan Dorval formerly cooked at the Oasis Café in Miami Beach, France. As authentic as the boulangerie breads are, the patis- peños, and cilantro, topped with not one but three sauces: thing most Americans have never heard of, making the as well as the Delano, and the varied background is reflected serie items like flan normande (a buttery-crusted, almond- wasabi, teriyaki, and spicy mayo); the Volcano, topped reference pretty much an insider’s joke. Since opening in cuisine that’s chiefly creative Caribbean but with influences topped apple-and-custard tart) are just as evocative. For eat-in with a mountain of tempura flakes; the spicy/sweet sauce- several years ago, the restaurant itself has been one of from the Middle East, Asia, Greece, and Italy. Homemade, diners, quite continental soups, salads, and sandwiches are drenched Hawaiian King Crab, containing unprecedented our town’s best-kept secrets. But the perfectionist chef/ health-oriented dishes include velvety ginger pumpkin bisque, equally and dependably French. $$ ingredients like tomatoes, green peppers, and pineapple. To owner’s concentration on quality and freshness of ingre- unusually refined conch fritters (light batter, monster chunks of drink there are boutique wines, artisan sakes, and cocktails dients has made Zipang the pick of sushi cognoscenti like conch), West Indies crab cakes with citrus aioli, and a signature Sara’s as exotic as the cuisine. $$$-$$$$ Loews’s executive chef Marc Ehrler, who has named the lavish, but only slightly sinful, Citadel Raw Fruit Pie. $$-$$$ 2214 NE 123rd St. unpretentious place his favorite Miami eatery, while admit- 305-891-3312 Tokyo Bowl ting the obvious: “Nobody knows it.” $$-$$$ Oishi Thai www.saraskosherpizza.com 12295 Biscayne Blvd. 14841 Biscayne Blvd. While this mainly vegetarian kosher place is best known for its 305-892-9400 305-947-4338 pizza (New York-style medium crust or thick-crusted Sicilian, This fast-food drive-thru (unexpectedly serene inside) is NORTH MIAMI BEACH www.oishithai.com topped with veggies and/or “meat buster” imitation meats), it’s named for its feature item, big budget-priced bowls of rice or At this stylish, dramatically minimalist Thai/sushi spot, the also offers a full range of breakfast/lunch/dinner vegetarian noodles topped with cooked Japanese-style items like teriyaki Bamboo Garden regular Thai and Japanese dishes are as good as anywhere cuisine of all nations, with many dairy and seafood items too. fish (fresh fish sautéed with vegetables), curried chicken and 1232 NE 163rd St. in town. But the way to go is the menu of specials, many Admittedly the cutesie names of many items – baygels, berger- veggies, spicy shrimp, or gyoza dumplings in tangy sauce. 305-945-1722 of which clearly reflect the young chef’s fanatic devotion rbite, Cezarrrr salad, hammm, meat-a-ball, schmopperrr – may There’s also an all-you-can-eat deal – sushi (individual nigiri or Big enough for a banquet (up to 300 guests), this to fresh fish, as well as the time he spent in the kitchen of cause queasiness. But the schmopperrr itself is one helluva maki rolls) plus tempura, teriyaki, and other cooked items for veteran is many diners’ favorite on the 163rd/167th Knob: broiled miso-marinated black cod; rock shrimp tem- high-octane veggie burger. $-$$ $14; three bucks more for sashimi instead of sushi. $-$$ Street “Chinatown” strip because of its superior décor. pura with creamy sauce; even Nobu Matsuhisa’s “new style But the menu also offers well-prepared, authentic sashimi” (slightly surface-seared by drizzles of hot olive and Scorch Grillhouse and Wine Bar Venezia Pizza and Café dishes like peppery black bean clams, sautéed mustard sesame oil). Formerly all Japanese-influenced, the specials 13750 Biscayne Blvd. 13452 Biscayne Blvd. greens, and steamed whole fish with ginger and scal- menu now includes some Thai-inspired creations, too, such 305-949-5588 305-940-1808 lions, plus Chinese-American egg foo young. Default as veal massaman curry, Chilean sea bass curry, and sizzling www.scorchgrillhouse.com No frozen pizza crusts or watery mozzarella here. No filet mignon with basil sauce. $$$-$$$$ Though some food folks were initially exasperated when imported designer ingredients either. The pies are New Continued on page 58 TWO FOR TUESDAY FREE LUNCH SPECIAL! $ Order any entrée 5 FRIDAYS BAGELS and a beverage, 5 FRIDAYS When you buy a dozen YOUR CHOICE – ANY OF OUR bagels get your choice ND GREAT 8OZ DELI SANDWICHES FREE FOR FIVE BUCKS of a second dozen bagels, a GET A 2 ONLY W/THIS COUPON pound of our delicious NO SHARING – NO TAKE-OUT – NO DELIVERIES 305-892-24335 * Best Nova Lox In www.bagelandcompany.com cream cheese or a coupon ENTRÉE FREE ! Open 6am-4pm daily good for a dozen bagels in (*of equal or lesser value) South Florida Platters Start at the next 30 days. Only w/this coupon 11:30am – 4pm $ 11064 Biscayne BlvdMiamiFL All offers with this coupon only. Offers may not be combined. All offers expire 5/31/09 NO SHARING, NO TAKE-OUT, NO DELIVERIES only 8.95 Half Price on our Handrolled Bagelss EVEVERYDAY after 2:30pm

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 57 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings Especially recommended are two dishes adapted from JC Food snack space. But when negotiating this international gour- recipes by Peru’s influential nikkei (Japanese/Creole) chef 1242 NE 163rd St. met market’s packed shelves and crowds has depleted Continued from page 57 Rosita Yimura: an exquisite, delicately sauced tiradito de 305-956-5677 your energies, it’s a handy place to refuel with eggplant corvina, and for those with no fear of cholesterol, pulpo de Jumbo’s regular menu offers a large percentage of hard- parmesan and similar Italian-American classics, steam- spicing is mild even in Szechuan dishes marked with oliva (octopus topped with rich olive sauce). $$$-$$$$ to-find traditional Chinese home-cooking specialties tabled but housemade from old family recipes. Just a few red-chili icons, but don’t worry; realizing some like it (many using fresh and preserved Asian vegetables): pork spoonfuls of Wednesday’s hearty pasta fagiole, one of hot, the chefs will customize spiciness to heroic heat Hiro Japanese Restaurant with bitter melon, beef with sour cabbage, chicken with the daily soup specials, could keep a person shopping for levels upon request. $$ 3007 NE 163rd St., 305-948-3687 mustard green, cellophane noodle with mixed-vegetable hours. $-$$ One of Miami’s first sushi restaurants, Hiro retains an casserole. Still, most diners come for dim sum, a huge Blue Marlin Fish House amusing retro-glam feel, an extensive menu of both sushi selection served at all hours. These small plates include Lemon Fizz 2500 NE 163rd St. and cooked Japanese food, and late hours that make it chewy rice noodle rolls filled with shrimp or beef, leek 16310 W. Dixie Hwy. 305-957-8822 a perennially popular snack stop after a hard night at the dumplings, crisp-fried stuffed taro balls, savory pork- 305-949-6599 Located inside Oleta River State Park, this casual outdoor area’s movie multiplexes (or strip clubs). The sushi menu studded turnip cake, pork/peanut congee, custard crois- www.lemon-fizz.com eatery (which is covered, but otherwise open-air) is a rare has few surprises, but quality is reliable. Most exceptional sants, and for the brave, steamed chicken feet. $$ Like wraps? Then you’ll love this Middle Eastern café’s surprise for nature lovers, especially since an eager-to- are the nicely priced yakitori, skewers of succulently soy- version made with saj, a circular Syrian flatbread similar please young couple took over the daytime-only conces- glazed and grilled meat, fish, and vegetables; the unusu- Kabobji to pita but much thinner, moister, and all-around better. sion, upgrading the menu, at the start of 2008. The fea- ally large variety available of the last makes this place a 3055 NE 163rd St., 305-354-8484 Upon order, diners can watch the chef custom-cook their tured item is still the house-smoked fish this historic venue good choice for vegetarians. $$ www.EatKabobji.com saj (on a scorching-hot, flying-saucer metal dome of the first started producing in 1938 – three varieties (salmon, This place makes a very good tahini sauce. In fact that alone is same name), then roll the beautifully surface-blistered mahi mahi, and the signature blue marlin), available in a Hiro’s Sushi Express reason enough to visit. We prefer ours with this bright, cheery eat- bread around one of 27 stuffings, including za’atar and sampler, salads, sandwiches/wraps, or a delightfully mild 17048 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-949-0776 ery’s delightfully oniony falafel or a veg-garnished wrap of thin-sliced EVOO, brined olives and labneh (creamy yogurt cheese), smoked fish dip that may be Miami’s best. But the smoke- Tiny, true, but there’s more than just sushi at this mostly take- marinated beef schwarma. They also do a beautifully spiced, and falafel, steak, even dessert fillings like strawberries and house now also turns out ribs and delectable brisket. Other out spin-off of the pioneering Hiro. Makis are the mainstay reassuringly fresh-tasting, raw kibbi naye (Middle Eastern steak Nutella. Also available: soups, salads, and substantial new additions include roasted red pepper hummus, crab (standard stuff like California rolls, more complex creations like tartare). It’s hard to resist putting together a grazing meal of globally topped rice bowls, plus fresh fruit juices and cakes, a delightfully light homemade Key lime chiffon pie, multi-veg futomaki, and a few unexpected treats like a spicy starters and wraps, but there’s also a roster of full entrées smoothies. $ daily specials, and on weekends, fish fries (with live music). Crunch & Caliente maki), available à la carte or in value-priced (with soup or salad plus starch), including tempting vegetar- For basic diners there are burgers and hot dogs. Entry individual and party combo platters. But there are also bento ian and seafood meals for noncarnivores. $$ Little Saiwwgon is directly from 163rd Street, not through the main park boxes featuring tempura, yakitori skewers, teriyaki, stir-fried veg- 16752 N. Miami Ave. entrance. No admission fee. $ gies, and udon noodles. Another branch is now open in Miami’s Kyung Ju 305-653-3377 Upper Eastside. $ 400 NE 167th St. This is Miami’s oldest traditional Vietnamese restaurant, China Restaurant 305-947-3838 but it’s still packed most weekend nights. So even the 178 NE 167th St. Hiro’s Yakko-San Star of the show at this long-lived Korean restaurant place’s biggest negative – its hole-in-the-wall atmosphere, 305-947-6549 17040 W. Dixie Hwy., 305-947-0064 (one of only a handful in Miami-Dade County) is bulgogi. not encouraging of lingering visits – becomes a plus since When you have a yen for the Americanized Chinese fusion After sushi chefs close up their own restaurants for the The name translates as “fire meat,” but isn’t a refer- it ensures fast turnover. Chef/owner Lily Tao is typically dishes you grew up with, all the purist regional Chinese night, many come here for a bite of something different. ence to Koreans’ love of hot chilis. Rather it refers to in the kitchen, crafting green papaya salad, flavorful beef cuisine in the world won’t scratch the itch. So the menu The specialty is Japanese home cooking, served in graz- Korean-style barbecue, which is really not barbecued but noodle pho (served with greens, herbs, and condiments here, containing every authentically inauthentic Chinese- ing portions so diners can enjoy a wide variety of the quickly grilled after long marination in a mix of soy sauce, that make it not just a soup but a whole ceremony), and American classic you could name, is just the ticket when unusual dishes offered. Standard sushi isn’t missed when sesame, sugar, garlic, and more. Lovers of fiery food can many other Vietnamese classics. The menu is humon- nostalgia strikes – from simple egg rolls to pressed glistening-fresh strips of raw tuna can be had in maguro customize with dipping sauces, or the eatery’s many little gous. $-$$ almond duck (majorly breaded boneless chunks, with nuta – mixed with scallions and dressed with habit-forming banchan (included side dishes, some mild, others mouth- comfortingly thick gravy). $-$$ honey-miso mustard sauce. Dishes depend on the market, searing). Pa jun, a crispy egg/scallion-based pancake, is Mary Ann Bakery but other favorites include goma ae (wilted spinach, chilled a crowd-pleasing starter. And if the unfamiliarity seems 1284 NE 163rd St. Christine’s Roti Shop and dressed in sesame sauce), garlic stem and beef (mild too scary altogether, there’s a selection of Chinese food. 305-945-0333 16721 NE 6th Ave. young shoots flash-fried with tender steak bits), or perhaps $$-$$$ Don’t be unduly alarmed by the American birthday cakes 305-770-0434 just-caught grouper with hot/sweet/tangy chili sauce. Open in the window. At this small Chinese bakery the real finds Wraps are for wimps. At this small shop run by Christine till around 3:00 a.m. $$ Kebab Indian Restaurant are the Chinatown-style baked buns and other savory Gouvela, originally from British Guyana, the wrapper is a far 514 NE 167th St. pastries, filled with roast pork, bean sauce, and curried more substantial and tasty roti, a Caribbean mega-crepe Heelsha 305-940-6309 ground beef. Prices are under a buck, making them an made from chickpea flour. Most popular filling for the flat- 1550 NE 164th St., 305-919-8393 Since the 1980s this restaurant, located in an unatmo- exotic alternative to fast-food dollar meals. There’s one bread is probably jerk chicken, bone-in pieces in a spiced www.heelsha.com spheric mini strip mall but surprisingly romantic inside table for eat-in snackers. $ stew of potatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions, and more chick- If unusual Bangladeshi dishes like fiery pumpkin patey (especially if you grab one of the exotically draped booths) peas. But there are about a dozen other curries to choose (cooked with onion, green pepper, and pickled mango) has been a popular destination for reasonably priced Matador Argentinean Steakhouse from, including beef, goat, conch, shrimp, trout, and duck. or Heelsha curry (succulently spiced hilsa, Bangladesh’s north Indian fare. Kormas are properly soothing and 3207 NE 163rd St. Take-out packages of plain roti are also available; they trans- sweet-fleshed national fish) seem familiar, it’s because vindaloos are satisfactorily searing, but the kitchen will 305-944-6001 form myriad leftovers into tasty, portable lunches. $ chef/owner Bithi Begum and her husband Tipu Raman adjust seasonings upon request. They aim to please. Food With Latin parilla places spreading here as fast as kudzu, once served such fare at the critically acclaimed Renaisa. arrives unusually fast for an Indian eatery, too. $$ it’s hard to get excited about yet another all-you-can-eat El Gran Inka Their new menu’s mix-and-match option also allows din- meat spread. But Matador offers far more for the money 3155 NE 163rd St. ers to pair their choice of meat, poultry, fish, or vegetable King Buffet than most. One dinner price ($24.95, $27.95 weekends) 305-940-4910 with more than a dozen regional sauces, from familiar 316 NE 167th St. includes a salad bar of more than 30 items, unlimited www.graninka.com Indian styles to exotica like satkara, flavored with a 305-940-8668 grilled proteins (many cuts of beef, sausages, chicken, Somehow, when setting off to try Key Biscayne restau- Bangladeshi citrus reminiscent of sour orange. Early-bird In this restaurant’s parking lot, midday on Sundays, the col- pork, assorted veggies, and even fish upon request), rants (like Miami’s original Gran Inka), we never make it dinners (5:00 to 6:30 p.m.) are a bargain, as some dishes orful display of vivid pinks, greens, and blues worn by myriad crunchy steak fries, a dessert (typically charged extra past Jimbo’s. So luckily, the newer branch of this upscale are almost half-price. Lunch is served weekends only families arriving for dinner in matching going-to-church out- elsewhere), and even more fun, a bottle of quite quaf- Peruvian eatery offers the same menu. Though diners will except by reservation, so call ahead. $$-$$$ fits is equaled only by the eye-poppingly dyed shrimp chips fable wine per person. $$$ find ceviches, a hefty fried-seafood jalea, and Peru’s other and desserts displayed inside on the buffet table. Though expected traditional specialties, all presented far more ele- Iron Sushi there’s an à la carte menu, the draw here is the 100-item Panya Thai gantly than most in town (notably a picture-perfect causa 16350 W. Dixie Hwy. (according to advertisements) all-you-can-eat spread of 520 NE 167th St. con camarones, mashed potatoes layered with shrimp), 305-945-2244 dishes that are mostly Chinese, with some American input. 305-945-8566 the contemporary Peruvian fusion creations are unique. (See Miami Shores listing) It’s steam-table stuff, but the price is right and then some: Unlike authentic Chinese cuisine, there’s no shortage $5.95 for lunch, $8.95 for dinner. $-$$ of genuine Thai food in and around Miami. But Panya’s chef/owner, a Bangkok native, offers numerous regional King Palace and/or rare dishes not found elsewhere. Plus he doesn’t 330 NE 167th St. automatically curtail the heat or sweetness levels to 305-949-2339 please Americans. Among the most intriguing: moo khem The specialties here are authentic Chinatown-style barbe- phad wan (chewy deep-fried seasoned pork strips with cue (whole ducks, roast pork strips, and more, displayed fiery tamarind dip, accompanied by crisp green papaya in a glass case by the door), and fresh seafood dishes, salad, a study in sour/sweet/savory balance); broad rice the best made with the live fish swimming in two tanks by noodles stir-fried with eye-opening chili/garlic sauce and the dining room entrance. There’s also a better-than-aver- fresh Thai basil; and chili-topped Diamond Duck in tangy age selection of seasonal Chinese veggies. The menu is tamarind sauce. $$-$$$ extensive, but the best ordering strategy, since the place is usually packed with Asians, is to see what looks good Pizza Fusion on nearby tables, and point. Servers will also steer you to 14815 Biscayne Blvd., 305-405-6700 the good stuff, once you convince them you’re not a chop www.pizzafusion.com suey kinda person. $$ “Saving the earth one pizza at a time” is the motto at this franchise of the only pizza chain to require third-party organic restaurant Laurenzo’s Market Café certification at all locations. Their gluten-free crusts make it mighty 16385 W. Dixie Hwy. friendly to pizza fanatics with food allergies. Starters, salads, des- 305-945-6381 serts, and organic wines/beers are also served. And delivery is www.laurenzosmarket.com available -- in hybrid cars, of course. Specials unique to this It’s just a small area blocked off by grocery shelves, NMB franchise include Sunday-Thursday happy hours, a free buried between the wines and the fridge counters – no potted palms, and next-to-no service in this cafeteria-style Continued on page 59

58 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009 DINING GUIDE

Restaurant Listings Tuna’s Raw Bar and Grille Il Migliore launched Pilar (named for Hemingway’s boat) aiming to 17850 W. Dixie Hwy. 2576 NE Miami Gardens Dr. prove that top restaurants can be affordable. Consider Continued from page 58 305-932-0630 305-792-2902 it now proven. Floribbean-style seafood is the specialty, www.tunasrawbarandgrille.com Reminiscent of an intimate Tuscan villa, chef Neal dishes fresh hearts of palm slaw and Caribbean curry Kids Organic Club class on Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 a.m., When Tuna’s moved in 2006 from the marina space it Cooper’s attractive trattoria gets the food right, as well sauce, rock shrimp spring rolls with sweet soy glaze, and and varied Monday-Wednesday freebies. $-$$ had occupied for more than 30 years, it lost its water- as the ambiance. As in Italy, dishes rely on impeccable yellowtail snapper with tomato-herb vinaigrette and a front location, its old-fashioned fish-house ambiance, ingredients and straightforward recipes that don’t potato/leek croqueta. Don’t let the strip-mall location fool PK Oriental Mart and its outdoor deck. But now it has gained new owners, overcomplicate, cover up, or otherwise muck about you. The restaurant itself is elegant. $$-$$$ 255 NE 167th St. a new name, a dazzling outdoor bar and dining area, with that perfection. Fresh fettuccine with white truffle 305-654-9646 and a newly impressive selection of raw-bar specialties: oil and mixed wild mushrooms needs nothing else. Pizza Roma While there are three other sizable Asian markets on cold-water oysters from the Northeast, plus Blue Points, Neither does the signature Pollo Al Mattone, marinated 19090 NE 29th Ave. this strip between I-95 and Biscayne Boulevard, PK Malpecs, Island Creeks, and more. Traditional house in herbs and cooked under a brick, require preten- 305-937-4462 has the only prepared-food counter, serving authentic favorites remain, and the emphasis is still on fresh fish tious fancification. And even low-carb dieters happily Despite its name, this homey hidden eatery serves not Chinatown barbecue, with appropriate dipping sauces from local waters. Open daily till 2:00 a.m., the place go to hell in a hand basket when faced with a mound Rome’s wood-cooked, crunchy-crusted pizzas but New York- included. Weekends bring the biggest selection, includ- can get rather festive after midnight, but since the kitch- of potatoes alla Toscana, fried herb-sprinkled French style pies with medium-thick crusts pliable enough to fold in ing barbecued ribs and pa pei duck (roasted, then deep- en is open till closing, Tuna’s draws a serious late-night fries. Located west of Biscayne Boulevard in the Davis half for neat street eating. Unlike chains, though, this indie is fried till extra crisp and nearly free of subcutaneous dining crowd, too. $$-$$$ Plaza shopping mall, across from Ojus Elementary accommodating, so if you want your crust thin and crisp, just fat). Available every day are juicy, soy-marinated roast School. $$-$$$ ask. Also featured are Italian-American entrées like baked chickens, roast pork strips, crispy pork, and whole roast manicotti (that’s “mani-goat”, for those not from NJ) big ducks – hanging, as tradition dictates, beaks and all. AVENTURA / MIAMI GARDENS Mahogany Grille enough to share, and sub sandwiches, here called “bullets,” But no worries; a counterperson will chop your purchase 2190 NW 183rd St. to put you in a Sopranos frame of mind. The neighborhood into bite-size, beakless pieces. $ Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza 305-626-8100 friendliness extends to kids, and there’s a TV, plus coolers of 17901 Biscayne Blvd. Formerly Ruby and Jean’s Soul Food Cuisine, a popular beer and plonk, for sports fans. $$ Roasters & Toasters 305-830-2625 but strictly neighborhood cafeteria, Mahogany Grille has 18515 NE 18th Ave. www.anthonyscoalfiredpizza.com drawn critical raves — and an international as well as local The Soup Man 305-830-3354 The last four digits of the phone number actually spell clientele — since retired major league outfielder Andre 20475 Biscayne Blvd. #G-8 Attention ex-New Yorkers: Is your idea of food pornogra- “COAL.” And that’s what it’s all about here -- a coal- Dawson and his brother Vincent Brown acquired the place 305-466-9033 phy one of the Carnegie Deli’s mile-high pastrami sand- fired oven (like that at Lombardi’s, Patsy’s, John’s, or in early 2007. The diner décor is gone, replaced by white The real soup man behind this franchise is Al Yeganeh, wiches? Well, Roasters will dwarf them. Even a mouth Grimaldi’s in New York) producing the intense 800-degree tablecloths and, naturally, mahogany. The food is a sort an antisocial Manhattan restaurant proprietor made like Angelina Jolie’s couldn’t fit around a “Carnegie-style” heat to turn out, in a mere three or four minutes, a pie of trendy yet traditional soul fusion, heaping platters from notorious, on a Seinfeld episode, as “the soup Nazi.” On monster containing, according to the menu, a full pound with the classic thin, crisp-bottomed, beautifully char- several African diaspora regions: Carolina Low Country the menu: ten different premium soups each day (from of succulent meat (really 1.4 pounds; we weighed it), for bubbled crust that fans of the above legendary pizzerias (buttery cheese grits with shrimp, sausage, and cream a rotating list of about 50). The selection is carefully a mere 15 bucks. All the other Jewish deli classics are crave -- at any cost. Expect neither bargain-chain prices, a gravy), the Caribbean (conch-packed fritters or salad), and balanced among meat/poultry-based and vegetarian; here too, including just-sour-enough pickles, just-sweet- huge selection of toppings (these aren’t the kind of clunky the Old South (lightly buttermilk-battered fried chicken). clear and creamy (like the eatery’s signature shellfish- enough slaw, silky hand-sliced nova or lox, truly red-rare crusts you overload), nor much else on the menu except The chicken is perhaps Miami’s best, made even better packed lobster bisque); chilled and hot; familiar (chicken roast beef, and the cutest two-bite mini-potato pancakes a hefty salad and some onion-topped chicken wings that with the Grille’s waffles. $$-$$$ noodle) and exotic (mulligatawny). All soups come with ever — eight per order, served with sour cream and are also coal-oven tasty. Anthony’s does just a few things, gourmet bread, fruit, and imported chocolate. Also available applesauce. $$ and does them right. $$ Pilar are salads, sandwiches, and wraps, à la carte or in soup-plus 20475 Biscayne Blvd. combos. $-$$ Sang’s Chinese Restaurant Bella Luna 305-937-2777; www.pilarrestaurant.com 1925 NE 163rd St. 19575 Biscayne Blvd. Aventura Mall , Chef/owner Scott Fredel previously worked for Norman Sushi Siam 305-947-7076 305-792-9330 Van Aken and Mark Militello. He has been executive chef 19575 Biscayne Blvd. Open late (12:30 a.m. most nights) since 1990, www.bellalunaaventura.com at Rumi, and cooked at NYC’s James Beard House. Armed 305-932-8955 Sang’s has an owner who previously cooked in NYC’s If the menu here looks familiar, it should. It’s identi- with those impressive credentials, Fredel and his wife (See Miami / Upper Eastside listing) Chinatown, and three menus. The pink menu is cal to that at the Upper Eastside’s Luna Café and, Americanized Chinese food, from chop suey to honey with minor variations, at all the rest of Tom Billante’s garlic chicken. The white menu permits the chef to eateries (Rosalia, Villaggio, Carpaccio), right down to show off his authentic Chinese fare: salt and pepper the typeface. But no argument from here. In a mall – a prawns, rich beef/turnip casserole, tender salt-baked setting more accustomed to food court, steam-tabled chicken, even esoterica like abalone with sea cucum- stuff – dishes like carpaccio al salmone (crudo, with ber. The extensive third menu offers dim sum, served portobellos, capers, parmesan slices, and lemon/toma- until 4:00 p.m. A limited live tank allows seasonal sea- to dressing) and linguine carbonara (in creamy sauce Buena Vista Bistro food dishes like lobster with ginger and scallion. More with pancetta and shallots) are a breath of fresh, albeit recently installed: a Chinese barbecue case, displaying familiar, air. $$-$$$ savory items like crispy pork with crackling attached. $$$ Bourbon Steak Shing Wang Vegetarian, Icee & Tea House 19999 W. Country Club Dr. 237 NE 167th St. (Fairmont Hotel, Turnberry Resort) 305-654-4008 786-279-0658 www.shingwangrestaurant.com www.michaelmina.net At this unique Taiwanese eatery, run by a trio of Taipei- At Bourbon Steak, a venture in the exploding restaurant trained female chefs, all seafood, poultry, and meats empire of chef Michael Mina, a multiple James Beard in the budget-priced entrées ($6.95) are mock – imita- award winner, steakhouse fare is just where the fare tions made from wheat gluten, tofu, and vegetables. But starts. There are also Mina’s ingenious signature dishes, don’t mock it till you try the quite beefy pepper steak, or like an elegant deconstructed lobster/baby vegetable pot smokin’ duck, with slices that mimic the charcuterie item pie, a raw bar, and enough delectable vegetable/seafood down to convincing faux fat. Other main dishes feature starters and sides (duck fat fries!) for noncarnivores to recognizable veggies or noodles, including appealingly assemble a happy meal. But don’t neglect the steak — chewy curried chow fun. As for the rest of the name: icee flavorful dry-aged Angus, 100-percent Wagyu American is shaved ice, an over-the-top dessert that’s a sort of a “Kobe,” swoonworthy grade A5 Japanese Kobe, and but- slurpee sundae, with toppings that vary from the familiar ter-poached prime rib, all cooked to perfection under the (fresh fruits) to the weird (grass jelly, sweet corn, kidney supervision of on-site executive chef Andrew Rothschild, beans, rice balls, chocolate pudding). And the bubble tea formerly of the Forge, meaning he knows his beef. (Mina is a must-not-miss. Using housemade syrup (as opposed himself is absentee.) $$$$$ to most establishments’ store-bought stuff), the cold, refreshing boba comes in numerous flavors (mango, taro, even actual tea), all supplemented with signature black Chef Allen’s tapioca balls that, slurped through large-diameter straws, 19088 NE 29th Ave; are a guaranteed giggle. $ 305-935-2900 www.chefallens.com Open Lunch & Dinner: 11AM – Midnight Siam Square After 20 years of success in the same location, many 54 NE 167th St. chefs would coast on their backlog of tried-and-true dish- Sunday Brunch: 11AM - 3PM 305-944-9697 es. And it’s doubtful that kindly Allen Susser would freak Open until 1:00 a.m. every day except Sunday (when is out his many regulars by eliminating from the menu the closes at midnight), this relatively new addition to North Bahamian lobster and crab cakes (with tropical fruit Miami Beach’s “Chinatown” strip has become a popu- chutney and vanilla beurre blanc). But lobster-lovers Patio Open Weekends lar late-night gathering spot for chefs from other Asian will find that the 20th anniversary menus also offer new restaurants. And why not? The food is fresh, nicely pre- excitements like tandoori-spiced rock lobster, along with sented, and reasonably priced. The kitchen staff is willing what might be the ultimate mac’n’cheese: lobster crab to customize dishes upon request, and the serving staff is macaroni in a Fris vodka sauce with mushrooms, scal- reliably fast. Perhaps most important, karaoke equipment lions, and parmesan. The famous dessert soufflé’s flavor ● is in place when the mood strikes. $-$$ changes daily, but it always did. $$$$$ 4582 NE 2nd Ave 305.456.5909

May 2009 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com 59 Panettone Pandoro TorroneTorroT one Panforte Perugina Chocolate The Finest Sincee 19511 Visit us instore or Online at Specialty Market www.laurenzosmarket.com in America M py Mem Happy other’s Day! Hap orial Day! NEW REDUCED CATERINGRING LISTLIST PRICES - HIGH HIGH QUALITY-QU SUPER VALUE AVAILABLE IN STORE, VIA FAX, OR WESBSITE / EMAIL ([email protected]). $ .99 $ .99 Made 8 + tax. 10 + tax. by Carlo, Toni, & Walter PEPPERONI OR SAUSAGE ORTOLANO MARGHERITA (VEGGIE MARGHERITA) $ .99 $ .99 $ .99 8 + tax. 8 + tax. 12 + tax.

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60 Biscayne Times • www.BiscayneTimes.com May 2009