CORAL GABLES THE MAGAZINE

From Small Print to BIG SCREEN MITCH KAPLAN GOES HOLLYWOOD

REAL ESTATE: CORAL GABLES RISING THE GREAT SIDEWALK EXPERIMENT As Realtor to the Who’s Who, We Always Know What’s What.

In every market we serve, Brown Harris Stevens has earned a reputation for being uncommonly selective when it comes to our associates. For 144 years, the world’s most discerning clientele have sought the consummate service and expertise of BHS brokers in , the Hamptons, Palm Beach, and now, .

How do we continually attract the most admired and productive agents in town? By offering them the tools, technology, support and autonomy they need to build lasting client relationships. Luxury has been our neighborhood since 1873. Let us show you around.

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NEW YORK THE HAMPTONS PALM BEACH MIAMI WE ARE GROWING THE CITY BEAUTIFUL Biltmore Parc

Althea Row

Beatrice Row Biltmore Row

With our comitment to excellence we are pround of being part of the growth of Coral Gables, The City Beautiful. Be a part of this private and tranquil community, just steps away from Miracle Mile. Welcome home. Visit our on-site Sales Center: 718 Valencia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134 T. 305.460.6719 | mgdevelopermiami.com #buildingbeautiful

“BUILDING THE CITY BEAUTIFUL” ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. IMAGE AND DESIGNS DEPICTED ARE ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERINGS. PLEASE SEE BROCHURE FOR THE FULL LEGAL DISCLAIMER. VOTED BY MIAMI-DADE’S REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY AS INSIDE THIS ISSUE BEST BROKERAGE Departments April 2018 2015 • 2016 • 2017

MIAMI HERALD/BENDIXEN & AMANDI REAL ESTATE SURVEY

POWER. PRESENCE. 11 Streetwise 19 Shop PRESTIGE. 25 Bites 31 CORAL GABLES’ LEADING REAL ESTATE 31 Living BROKERAGE FOR OVER HALF A CENTURY.

41 People

70 Home & Garden

80 Real Estate

84 Dining 41 70 88 Dining List

92 Voices $299MM 211 96 Time Machine

$156MM 84 96 103 89 $109MM

45 $54MM $52MM 32

We should be the country of INTERNATIONAL EWM REALTY #2 #3 #4 #5 INTERNATIONAL EWM REALTY #2 #3 #4 #5 inclusion, not exclusion… TOTAL SALES BY DOLLAR VOLUME PAST 12 MONTHS TOTAL NUMBER OF TRANSACTION PAST 12 MONTHS p46 SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES & CONDOS IN ALL PRICE RANGES SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES & CONDOS IN ALL PRICE RANGES IMPAC Fund founder Mike Fernandez, Chairman, MBF Healthcare Partners ewm.com

4 thecoralgablesmagazine.com EWM Realty International’s #1 ranking is based on total dollar volume sales amd total sales in units. Data was extracted from the Miami Association of Realtors, The Greater Fort Lauderdale Association of Realtors, and the Southeast Florida Regional MLS on 2/22/2018 for single-family homes and condos sold in the City of Coral Gables for all price ranges for the period beginning 2/1/2017 and ending 1/31/2018. INSIDE THIS ISSUE Coldwell Features Vol 1. Issue 1 Banker ®

48 Sells

Coral Gables Rising With more than $1.5 billion in new mid-rise devel- opment, Coral Gables is making its core more dense. MORE HOMES But it’s doing so in a controlled fashion envisioned by city fathers, creating more of a live-work-play city. *

58 in Florida

The Great Sidewalk Experiment 48 Three years after the city decided to move forward, and 18 months after construction began, the Street- HOMES SOLD IN FLORIDA Scape project to transform Giralda Avenue and Miracle Mile is finally complete. Now to see if it Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate As Florida’s #1 real estate brokerage*, 64 15,952 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate knows how to market and sell homes like Kaplan Goes to Hollywood Charles Rutenberg Realty no other. Mitch Kaplan, the Gables entrepreneur who turned 6,180 Books & Books into a community institution and the Miami Book Fair into a national event, has More property marketing Berkshire Hathaway Florida The result? gone from the small print to the big screen. 58 64 that reaches more buyers, which means 5,790 more opportunities to sell your home.

The Keyes Company Get more than you expect from a real 4,080 estate company. Contact us today. In the old days, the Mile was dead after hours. People are Dec. 1, 2016 – Nov. 30, 2017 (Listing Sides) coming back now... p58 Coral Gables | 305.667.4815 Peter Iglesias, Coral Gables Assistant City Manager ColdwellBankerHomes.com 4000 Ponce De Leon Blvd Ste 700 Coral Gables, FL 33146

*Based on total number of closed listing sides (representing the seller) in Florida in all price ranges as reported by MarketQuest in January 2018 for the period of Dec. 1, 2016 – Nov. 30, 2017. MarketQuest data is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 247803FL_1/18 6 thecoralgablesmagazine.com YOUR CORAL GABLES NEIGHBORHOOD SPECIALIST Editor’s Letter JUST LISTED

#1 TOP PRODUCER 2017 ONE | SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

TOP 250 AGENTS IN AMERICA THE WALL STREET JOURNAL On the cover: Mitch Kaplan, founder of Books & Books and the Miami Book Fair. 1624 GRANADA BOULEVARD ∏ CORAL GABLES Photograph by Jon Braeley 5 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 4,671 SF | 21,400 SF LOT | $1,996,000

PUBLISHER JUST REDUCED Welcome to the premiere issue Richard Roffman EDITOR IN CHIEF of Coral Gables Magazine, the J.P.Faber DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS magazine of and for the citizens Monica Del Carpio-Raucci ART DIRECTOR of an extraordinary community. Jon Braeley PRODUCTION MANAGER Toni Kirkland VP SALES DIRECTOR f you work, live or just play here, you literary entrepreneur Mitch Kaplan, creator Sherry Adams already know what an amazing city Coral of Books & Books and the Miami Book Fair, SALES EXECUTIVES 6988 SUNRISE DRIVE • CORAL GABLES IGables is – a world unto itself, rich in whose new venture takes him from paper to Magguie Marina 4 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,421 SF | 20,915 SF LOT | $8,495,000 culture, commerce and physical beauty. It’s celluloid. Gloria Glanz also a city busy reinventing itself. The remainder of the magazine is filled SENIOR WRITER Our job, as your monthly periodical, is to with what we’ll bring you every month, Doreen Hemlock JUST SOLD keep you better informed about how to use intelligence on what’s new and interesting in WRITERS and enjoy your city, and to shine a light on the City Beautiful. Robin Shear Julienne Gage citizens who are doing useful and interesting And please remember, this is your Odalis Garcia things. We’ll be looking at everything from magazine. We are here because Coral Gables Kimberly Rodriguez where to hear the best music, to what you needs – and deserves – its own magazine, PHOTOGRAPHERS should be doing with your home and garden. which we’ll do our best to deliver. But we’ll Matias J. Ocner We’ll cover business, politics, real estate and need input from you, the eyes and ears of Cyn Zarco public safety, and we’ll report on restaurants, the city. So please email your feedback and SOCIAL MEDIA shops, theaters, galleries, bars, cultural events suggestions about the magazine to editor@ Ella Aire – and places that are off the beaten-path. thecoralgablesmagazine.com, and please SENIOR ADVISOR In this inaugural issue we look at the send your letters for publication to letters@ Dennis Nason latest burst of urban development, which thecoralgablesmagazine.com. CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION 4412 SANTA MARIA STREET • CORAL GABLES will bring new density to the walkable cores CircIntel SOLD FEBRUARY 2018 FOR $3,525,000 of the Gables without impacting its verdant single-family neighborhoods. We also look at Coral Gables Magazine is published monthly by City Regional Media, 2051 SE Third St. Deerfield JO-ANN FORSTER the city’s transformation of Giralda and Mir- Beach, FL 33441. Telephone: (786) 206.8254. acle Mile – how, after a long arduous process, Copyright 2018 by City Regional Media. All SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT | ESTATE AGENT downtown now has walkable boulevards. Our rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of ONE | SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY any text, photograph or illustration without prior [email protected] other feature story is the tale of home-grown written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Send address changes to City Region- UNIQUEHOMESOFPINECREST.COM J.P.Faber, Editor in Chief al Media, 2051 SE Third St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. General mailbox email and letters to edi- 305.778.5555 [email protected]. AAM applied for April 2018.

thecoralgablesmagazine.com

©MMXIV ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed 8 thecoralgablesmagazine.com trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. The information contained wherein is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Letters Streetwise

EYE SEE YOU p16

We put cameras there and the break-ins stopped Frank Fernandez, the assistant city manager in charge of public safety Gables Guns Free Ride Power Suit The Big Sit

10 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 11 Streetwise Guns in the Gables

Free Ride THE CITY’S DOWNTOWN FINAL TRANSPORT LINK IS JUST AN APP AWAY

Co-founders Speigel and Kimball

Coral Gables Trust Company is the largest independent and privately held trust company headquartered in with over a billion dollars of assets under management. Mayor Valdés-Fauli We provide transparent, high-level wealth management and duciary services to affluent families, charities, and businesses throughout the state. t was always a symbolic act. mission voted 3 to 2 to back At the end of February, the down. Those who dissented We are devoted to putting our client's interest rst and strive to always provide connict-free ICoral Gables city commission – commissioners Vince Lago, services, personalized advice, and exible solutions. Call and connect with us today! voted to ban the sale of assault Michael Mena and Frank For more information, please contact: rifles anywhere in the city. This Quesada – said it wasn’t worth was a big deal because Flori- exposing the city to millions of John W. Harris da law bans any municipality dollars in legal fees to fight the from enacting gun laws. If they anticipated lawsuits. Remind- Managing Director & Chief Wealth Advisor do, the governor can fine and ing them of that was former D: 305.443.2544 | C: 954.864.9441 | [email protected] fire that city’s mayor and its banker Raul Mas Canosa, who 255 Alhambra Circle, Suite 333 commissioners. “What we did said he wanted to open a fire- Coral Gables, FL 33134 was illegal, but we wanted to arm dealership in the Gables ho says there is no such less than 8 minutes) and take send a message,” says Mayor and would sue the city. thing as a free ride? you where you want to go. Raúl Valdés-Fauli. That mes- Undeterred, Valdés-Fauli WSince last July, the denizens The Freebee is the brain- sage may have been symbolic voted in favor of the law, along of downtown Coral Gables child of UM graduates Jason – there are no gun stores in with Commissioner Patricia have had the option of taking Speigel and Kris Kimball, who the Gables – but it was one Keon. He called the Tallahas- the Freebee, a six-seat electric co-founded the company in more pressure point on state see lawmakers who passed the car that is gratis to anyone 2012. Their idea: To offer free legislators. Nine days later the 2011 ban on city ordinances who downloads the app and rides paid for by advertisers governor signed the state’s against guns “prostitutes” of the requests a ride. If you stay who market their brand via the strongest gun law in decades. NRA. The city will now join within a 1.5 square mile area in vehicles. Speigel and Kimball Having said that, at the other Florida municipalities in the downtown, a Freebee will started that year with Miami end of March the city com- an effort to overturn that law. arrive (average waiting time: Beach, then went to ,

12 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Streetwise The Big Sit Downtown Miami, , by $65,000 or more. Key Biscayne, and finally Part of that advertising Coral Gables. appears on the cars themselves; In the City Beautiful, Free- another big part appears on bee now operates 3 vehicles; as the app, in the form of offers of February, some 35,000 riders by local businesses to lure new had used the service. customers – 20 percent off at “The goal is 65,000 Miller’s Ale House, for exam- passengers for the first year,” ple, or 20 percent off at Swine says Kevin Kinney, the city’s restaurant. About 30 businesses parking director, who advo- advertise, says Speigel. cated for Freebee to reduce “We look at Freebee as a the number of cars downtown. true form of ‘first and last’ mass “People generally love it. The transit,” says Speigel. “The goal comment I typically get is how is to help people live and work come it doesn’t come to my in the downtown area without hey are calling it the realm,” says artist Roberto neighborhood.” the need of a personal vehicle, largest couch in the world. Behar. “It also has a kind of Whether the Freebee or to be able to leave their ve- TWhether or not it makes the fantastic dimension. It’s the footprint expands will be hicle in a garage. It’s now part record books, it will appear by land of the colossal.” Behar and determined at the end of year of the public transportation year’s end in Balboa Plaza at R&R Studios partner Rosario one, this June. Partly it may system of the city.” the intersection of De Soto, Marquardt were commis- be a matter of cost. The city It’s also part of the city’s Anderson and Biltmore Way: sioned by MG Development paid Freebee $175,000 for year branding, with drivers trained A giant, oversized stone sofa, to enhance the outdoor space one, with the proviso that any to answer questions from rid- the city’s latest foray into near their latest project. “It will advertising revenue exceeding ers. “They are up to date on the public art. “We wanted to do become a point of reference in $50,000 for the year goes back city messaging, so they become a project that brings a piece the city,” says Behar. “We can say, to the city. Speigel says he city ambassadors for Coral of the home into the public ‘Let’s meet at the grand bench.’” hopes to reduce the city’s cost Gables,” says Speigel. Coral Gables by Power Suit CITY FILES LAWSUIT TO UPGRADE Numbers A FAILING INFRASTRUCTURE

Source: City of Coral Gables

Number of trees knocked hen Hurricane Irma hit affluent city. A judge will now South Florida, thou- have to see if it should be dis- down by Hurricane Irma Pictured from left to right: PATTI CECCHERINI, CARLA OLIVARES, BLAIR SONVILLE, LILIANA QUINTERO-SIDERIS, BEATRIZ CARDONA, Wsands of Gables residents lost missed in a court of law, with 1,600 LANI KAHN DRODY, JOHANNA ROLDAN, LAUREN BILLINGSLEA DOWLEN, JJ SNOW HANSEN, CARRIE FOOTE, SUZANNE SANTOS power. A week later, hundreds a hearing this month. If not, it of homes were still without goes forward. The aim of the Number of trees put back power. So, in October, the city suit is “to make them do what by city work crews voted to sue FPL for failing to they are supposed to do,” says 1,000 maintain and upgrade its gear, Ramos. especially since FPL customers The city wants the court Estimated number of cars that don’t paid surcharges on their bills to order FPL to keep vege- park daily in the Downtown thanks for just that. tation trimmed and upgrade SMALL ENOUGH TO BE PERSONAL to the Coral Gables Trolley The lawsuit has since been their equipment to a higher LARGE ENOUGH TO BE GLOBAL 750 carried forward by new City standard. “Our infrastructure is Attorney Miriam Ramos, 60 years old,” says Mayor Raúl OUR BOUTIQUE FIRM IS READY TO EXPERTLY HANDLE THE COMPLEXITIES OF MIAMI’S Number of city employees who’ve taken appointed in November. FPL Valdés-Fauli. “Remember rota- LUXURY PROPERTY MARKET WITH PERSONALIZED SERVICE AND BRILLIANT RESULTS. paternity leave since Coral Gables passed its dismissed the lawsuit as an act ry phones? Our infrastructure 2017 ordinance allowing dads to take time off of self-entitlement by a spoiled, is like that.” 11 LowellInternationalRealty.COM PHONE: 305.520.5420 14 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 1537 SAN REMO AVENUE, CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA 33146 Streetwise But Will Kudos, J-Lo Be Sort Of The There? ongratulations to Coral Gables, which made it Cto the 2018 Top 100 Best Places to Live [in the USA] his month you may Jewel by Livability.com, a research of Tnotice scores of toned and site that ranks cities according muscular millennials wander- to such criterion as housing Miracle Mile ing around the intersection of and amenities. More than Giralda and Salzedo. 2,100 cities with populations Eye See You That’s because baseball between 20,000 and 350,000 great Alex Rodriguez is open- were evaluated, so it’s nice n ounce of prevention, homicide suspect who had fled ing a massive 11,000-square- to be on the list. And it’s no they say, is worth a pound New England. He was ‘tagged’ foot TruFusion gym there, in surprise that we’re No. 68, be- ofA cure. That is one of the on U.S. 1 heading south, where the heart of historic downtown, hind such celebrated places as motivations for the city’s array county cops – alerted by the offering 240 different work-out Cambridge, Mass., Berkeley, of some 45 cameras aimed at Gables – apprehended him. classes a week. CA., or Charleston, SC. ferreting out crime – or better More pervasive have been Does this mean he and But to be ranked beneath yet, deterring it. the city’s 30 CCT cameras, girlfriend Jennifer Lopez will No. 45 Boca Raton? Can there “When I got here a little dubbed the “Eye in the Sky.” become citizens of the City be any more boring place? At over two and a half years ago, These are placed in high crime While staying at the Biltmore Hotel, visit Downtown Coral Beautiful? least we rank in the Top 10 the city was concerned about areas, or areas where public Cities for Book Lovers. high levels of car break-ins and safety needs to be enhanced. Gables.Discover There Jae’s you'll Jewelers, find Jae's a full-service Jewelers, a full-service family-owned family robberies,” says Frank Fernan- In terms of public safety, dez, the assistant city manager the CCTs can film a public area ownedboutique boutique & the & oldest the oldest business business on onMiracle Miracle Mile. Mile. in charge of public safety. “The and, with analytic software at Global Gables city manager asked me to put the city’s IT center, search for together a comprehensive crime variables – like blue jackets, or Founded in 1945, Jae's Jewelers sells, repairs, Jae's Jewelers' best-selling designer lines are John prevention plan.” High on the tall men with blond hair. They creates, purchases, and appraises jewelry and Hardy, Montblanc, Roberto Coin, Rebecca, & wish list was a technology up- can also go back in time and watches. Owner Bruce Hornik & his daughter Alor. The store is also the only authorized dealer grade, including a web of camer- scan for objects, or look for Jillian Hornik are both Graduate Gemologists, in South Florida for Masriera, Mattioli, & Roberto as to detect criminal activity. something in the present, like a At a cost of about $1.5 backpack left in a public square. educated at GIA. "We have a loyal clientele Demeglio. million, the city installed 15 On the prevention front, because of our personalized customer service & LPRs (license plate readers) the results have been dramatic. decades of experience" says Jillian. Bruce adds, InIn addition addition to to new new designs, designs, Jae's to track cars that entered the On U.S. 1, the parking lots "Clients who purchased their engagement rings Jae’sJewelers Jewelers carries curates a large a large collection city, and another 30 CCTs behind Denny’s and the Shake and wedding bands from our store, now bring in collectionof fine vintage of fine jewelry vintage &jewelry & (closed-circuit TV cameras) to Shack were plagued with high pre-owned watches from brands such keep watch on high-crime areas. levels of auto break-ins. their children & grandchildren who are getting as:pre-owned David Yurman, watches Tiffany, such asRolex, Rolex, The LPRs have created “We put cameras there and married. It is wonderful to celebrate happy times. Cartier,Cartier, Breitling & Chopard, & Omega at up atto half of what Fernandez calls a “geo the break-ins stopped,” says We are very fortunate." significantthe original savings. price. fence” around the city, “so that Fernandez. “They provided de- an it be 20 years since with his annual “Who’s Here” theoretically we know what is terrence, so much so that we’ve Coral Gables-based database of 1,400 multination- coming in and what is coming had almost no crime on U.S. 1 CWorldCity began tracking in- als in Greater Miami. out.” While especially good in about a year.” And the cherry 237 MIRACLE MILE, CORAL GABLES ternational business in Greater And how many of those at flagging stolen cars, since on top? With the new technol- HOURS: TUES-SAT 11 AM - 6 PM The entire Jae's Jewelers family looks forward Miami? Answer: yes. Founder are in the Gables? Most of the installation the LPRs have ogy, “There’s no downtime, no PHONE: 305-443-7724 to welcoming you to their store soon! and CEO Ken Roberts has heavy hitters, says Roberts. Go led to a couple of high-profile complaints, no overtime, they been reporting on global to worldcityweb.com to check busts. One was in February, are always reliable and on the companies for two decades, the list and their event series. when they caught the plate of a job 24/7,” says Fernandez. 16 thecoralgablesmagazine.com www.jaesjewelers.com Shop

EURO SHOW p20 EUROPEAN BRANDS MAKE IT TO SOUTH FLORIDA

An Uplifting Fit LINGERIE SHOP SHAPES LIVES

EURO INFUSED FASHION AT THE CORNER OF LEJEUNE AND MIRACLE MILE 19 Shop

Co-founder Beatriz Carrillo EURO SHOW NOT ALL EUROPEAN BRANDS MAKE IT POOL LabShow TO SOUTH FLORIDA. UNLESS YOU GO 376 Miracle Mile TO POOL LABSHOW Coral Gables, FL 33134 786-773-3333 By Kimberly Rodriquez

n the corner of Spanish Co-founder void of cool European labels. is dedicated to a woman who are stylish with a quality driven With double the buying power, LeJeune and Miracle Beatriz Carrillo opened POOL She decided right then to bring knows her style and is loyal to approach to fashion that is more European elegance will OMile is a euro-infused in the spring of 2016 at the that fashion sensibility and in- it. A woman who is looking distinctly Euro. be heading to South Florida, fashion realm called POOL intersection opposite the City Pool LabShow represents the novation to her new home. As for quality, and unique and This spring and summer, to reach even more women LabShow, a luxury multi-brand Hall of Coral Gables. When European flair that I would for the name, “POOL” means timeless pieces.” her customers will find that who are looking for European fashion concept store. POOL’s asked why Coral Gables, she togetherness, while LabShow Carrillo carries European the collections flutter from elegance and a sophisticated mission: showcase a curated says “Upon moving here from describe with one line: ‘Elegance encompasses the idea of dis- designer brands that cannot be fantasy to classic. ”Individuality approach to dressing. But Palm selection of innovative and Madrid I was unable to find the playing new, edgy designers all found anywhere else in South is expressed through a myriad Beach will be following the exclusive European designer brands I loved from back home.” is refusal’... collaborating under one roof. Florida, including those from of trends that are ready and lead of Coral Gables. brands and contemporary Carrillo had worked in “Pool LabShow rep- Cortana, Jorge Vazquez, Mes waiting to be worn,” she says. labels. It is a breath of fresh air luxury brand marketing in resents the European flair that Demoiselles, and Giada Forte POOL LabShow will Kimberly Rodriguez is a Personal on Miracle Mile, and promises Madrid for more than 20 years, I would describe with one to name a few. next expand to Palm Beach, Stylist and Shopper whose clients not to disappoint the most so when she landed in the line: ‘Elegance is refusal,’” says The pieces can be whim- says Carillo, with a new store include many Coral Gables residents. discerning of shoppers. Gables she was surprised at the Carrillo. “POOL LabShow sical, fancy, casual, chic, and all at the Royal Poinciana Plaza.

20 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photo of Carrillo by Cyn Zarco Photography by Ella Aire 21 Shop The ultimate expression in sophisticated living AN UPLIFTING FIT Sometimes the smallest, most intimate shops offer the greatest support: How a local lingerie shop shapes lives

By Julienne Gage

t’s wedding and prom owned the next-door business season again – time to shop Actua the Salon, decided to Inot just for the right gown invest after helping his mother but the right undergarments. recover from a mastectomy. The trend in plunging neck- “Not every woman is the same lines and backless dresses can shape,” he says, adding that his make the latter seem especially fitters have licenses for a reason. challenging, and there’s only As for Silvia, after 33 years so much that retail chains can working as a local lingerie do to accommodate. But Coral fitter, she knows body shapes Gables shoppers are in luck, better than any Coral Gables thanks to the city’s old-school tailor. Her first job at age 17 lingerie boutique, the Gables (her family had emigrated from Corset Shoppe. Nicaragua a few years earlier) From Chantelle to Prima- was fitting lingerie for the 80 Leucadendra Drive, Gables Estates $12,900,000 5 Bed 6.5 Bath 12,336 sf 48,533 sf lot 270’ Water Frontage donna, its licensed fitters carry legendary Corset Corner on world-renowned lingerie col- Miracle Mile, which closed in lections in every shape and size, 2005. That’s when she started and they offer free fittings, spe- running Silvia’s Corset Corner. cial orders, and major alterations “A lot of my customers – usually included in the cost I’ve known for so many years of the garments. That’s right, that they first come in with they can cut plunge lines into a cup of coffee and sit down. a Double D bra, sew two gar- Sometimes they’re here for an Silvia Valdiva, co-owner, has worked ments into one, pad your buns, hour or two hours just talking,” on Miracle Mile for 33 years as a and bring contour to chests that she says. That familiarity makes lingerie fitter have undergone operations both it easier to accommodate the elective and lifesaving. life stages of their bodies – the Coral Gables businessman triumphs as well as the trau- Peter Gonzalez bought the mas. In fact, it’s often the fitter A lot of my customers I’ve store – then known as Silvia’s who must broach the subject: Corset Corner – in 2013. What medications are you on, known for so many years that Owners Jennifer and John have you changed your diet, they first come in with a cup Cosamano retired, but co-own- what’s been happening lately? of coffee and sit down... er and master shape-fitter Sil- “They feel comfortable Get Listed. Get Sold. via Valdiva, for whom the shop enough to say what they’ve had been named, stayed on. gone through. It’s a great feel- • $100M+ Sold in 2017 Gonzalez, a hair stylist who ing,” says Silvia. 305.804.9700 [email protected] • Top Producer - Compass FL 2017 22 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photography by Ella Aire listingmiami.com • Top ½ of 1% of Realtors Bites Tea Time p26 AFTERNOON TEA ALL DAY

Mucha Bulla! THE HORA OF HAPPINESS A Different Buffet THE LONG LINES ARE WORTH IT Made in Coral Gables HERE COMES THE BEEF A Latte with that Loan? GOOD COFFEE AND FINANCIAL ADVICE

THERE ARE TEAS FOR EVERY MOOD AT SMALL TEA ON ARAGAON AVENUE

25 Bites Mucha Bulla! THE HORA OF HAPPINESS

oral Gables’ Spanish gas- belted Latin hits from the tro bar Bulla lives up to its rooftop – literally. Bulla’s Costa Cnoisy name – in the best way Rican chef, Diego Solano, con- possible. The two-story restau- cocted his Iberian cuisine with rant has multiple rooms for a New World twist, serving dining, but its big daily draw is ham croquetas with fig jelly, a lively happy hour, weekdays codfish fritters with tartar, and 5 to 7 pm. Last month, Bulla a beet, almond, and goat cheese celebrated its five-year anniver- salad with kale. And to whisk sary with a packed house. away the after-work doldrums: Upstairs, local Cuban- generous glasses of the house Tea Time American soul singer Sol Ruiz red and white sangrias. IT’S A COFFEE-DRIVEN CULTURE – EXCEPT by Julienne Gage WHERE THEY DRINK TEA ON ARAGON We think coffee Line Up for Sunday could really use etween the natural-yet- Benoudiz believes people laptop to write them. Bisque Drinks modern décor and the are ready to sacrifice fast-paced Benoudiz found himself a cup of tea BEuro-styled customers – coffee convenience for a calm- doing lots of that as he traveled right about now. students decked out in H&M er, more soothing light fare and up the Eastern Seaboard and and men in suits sporting mod beverage experience. to the Pacific Northwest in And so could hat does it take to create f you want an elegant shoes with bright red soles – a “I actually lived in Coral search of tea makers, interior Wa line outside a Gables ISunday brunch, head to the visit to Small Tea on Aragon Gables for many years, so I designers, and other ambience you... restaurant? Apparently a com- Biltmore. If you want some- Avenue can quickly transport knew the area, the people, what curators to help him create his bination of all-you-can-eat and thing subdued, there’s the Yard you from the South Florida it needed,” he says. “Better aesthetic blend. no-reservations. That’s what House or Brasserie Central in tropics to some cool, cozy place tea, better food, better service, In addition to an instal- has them clustering outside of the Shops of Merrick Park, or in Scandinavia. better ambience – it pays off.” lation of tea crates that helps POC at 2121 Ponce (just north at Threefold Café or Graziano’s A read through Small Indeed, Small Tea pours soften the acoustics, Small Tea’s of Alcazar). This is no ordinary on (or just off ) the new Giralda A Different Sushi Tea’s online “treatise,” which out its good vibes to a regularly walls are lined with about 80 endless buffet, however. pedestrian plaza. encourages consumers to break full house. While the treatise copper tea canisters stamped For $23 on weeknights But if you want a more the “big coffee” business habit, also invites its customers to with letters and numbers like and $26 on weekend nights ($7 rollicking late morning nosh, hink every sushi place is chipotle sauce. Here, ceviche suggests that’s just the tone be “gloriously unproductive,” C03 and A05. Small Tea’s less for weekday and weekend head to Tap 42 at the inter- Tthe same? Not so at the meets scallops, jalapeño meets founder Daniel Charles Joseph something about the shop’s “Big Menu,” translates these lunch), you can gorge on a vast section of Salzedo and Gi- Sushi Club on Miracle Mile. crab meat, canchachulpe corn Benoudiz was trying to set. beautiful form and functional- oblique codes, and with them, selection of sushi and ‘Amer- ralda. On any given Sunday Just 3 months old, the Club meets nigiri. “We think coffee could ity, as well as the invigorating a tea for every mood – Vanilla ican Fusion,’ which means you’ll be joined by 300 other is starting to build a follow- The restaurant is designed really use a cup of tea right taste of multilayered tea and a Meet Cinnamon, Blossom Buddy, everything from Black Angus folks, listening to amped up ing with its fusion of Sushi a bit like a Las Vegas club, but about now. And so could you. crisp-crusted sandwich, makes or Apple Falls anyone? Our sliders and lobster bisque DJ music. The draw? “It’s the and Peruvian flavors. Try the if that’s not your scene, the Along with an elegant, humble you want to delve into deep choice in this cozy bistro: the to Alaskan snow crab and $20, bottomless mimosas,” the dumpling that mixes chorizo outdoor café seating is open place to sit and simply enjoy thoughts with your business blooms-of-amaranth-and-nas- Waldorf salad. Over 160 items hostess will tell you. with duck. Or the red queen and pleasant on the new Mile. said tea,” it reads. associates – or break out your turtium-infused Aha! Moment. served daily. roll with seared tuna and

26 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photography courtesy of Tea Time Photography (top) by Julienne Gage; sushi by Sushi Club 27

The Outlook for Bites Coral Gables Made in Coral Gables Real Estate is Rosy. SOON TO SERVE AT A LOCATION NEAR YOU, THE PINCHO FACTORY’S COMBINATION OF SHISH KABOB AND GOURMET BURGERS HAS TAKEN SOUTH FLORIDA BY STORM – AND IS ABOUT TO GO NATIONAL

By J.P. Faber

t’s not on the brightly lit ners out of it,” says Othman of South Florida, reflecting the special hamburgers that family restaurant-row stretch of the decision to move into the area’s unique blend of Latin and friends raved about. IGiralda, now a pedestrian Gables. “Although not the best American influences. “I remember that bar- plaza, but rather on the quieter real estate, it was an upgrade For those unfamiliar with becue, and how Nedal wasn’t part of the street close to busy for us and we kicked ass,” he the term, a Pincho (the Span- happy with his job,” recalls . It doesn’t seem says, doing $1 million in busi- ish word for “thorn” or “spike”) Othman. “I said I wish I could like the optimal place to open ness the first year there. “After is traditional bar food from eat these pinchos and burgers a new burger joint, especially that I quit my marketing job northern Spain. It’s like tapas, all the time. I looked at Nedal in a town where burger places and went into the business full in the sense of a small bite and said, ‘Why don’t we start a have come and gone. time.” consumed while drinking, but restaurant? I’ll do the market- But for Otto Othman That was six years ago. uses a skewer (usually a tooth- ing and you do the cooking.’” and his two cousins, Coral Today, the Pincho Factory – pick) to spear a few edibles For months afterward, Gables was the touchstone headquartered in Coral Gables together on a piece of bread. In Othman, Nedal and Nedal’s for their new fast casual food – has 10 locations in South South America, it is a common younger brother Nizar (talked concept, the Pincho Factory. Florida, with more on the form of street food, and the into joining them because they Having nearly failed in their drawing board. And they are way to serve a shish kabob. needed more start-up money) first location on looking to take the concept big. The inspiration for the worked on recipes. They de- in Westchester, Othman and “What Shake Shack is to Pincho Factory came eight cided that rather than offer an cousins Nedal and Nizar New York and In-and-Out is to years ago, during a 4th of July exhausting menu, they would Ahmad decided to roll the dice , Pincho is going to cookout at the home of Oth- focus on a few key offerings and open a second location in be for Florida. We are getting man’s cousin Nedal. Othman they could make great. Coral Gables. ready now to expand national- showed up with his mom’s Those focal points are six “We actually almost closed ly,” says Othman. succulent Middle-Eastern versions of pinchos (Lat- in our second In many ways, kabobs, which she used to in, California, year, but I sort the Pincho Factory is cook for him during his Tex-Mex, etc.), of talked my perfectly Florida, and childhood in Brazil, while served in a business part- even more perfectly Nedal was firing up his wrap, rice

THE PINCHO FACTORY NEDAL AHMAD - OTTO OTHMAN - NIZAR AHMAD

28 thecoralgablesmagazine.com bowl or atop a salad, and seven ingredients. Rather than spend to be a pioneer in what’s called versions of Nedal’s burgers on lavish interiors, theirs are ‘fast casual’ food. Whereas fast (Fritanga, Bacon n Blue, Tos- Spartan – white tile walls, food is low quality, low price, ton, etc.). The signature Pincho exposed duct-work ceilings, an the fast-casual category is high burger, topped with cheese, open kitchen, and a wall-sized quality, moderately priced, and We decided to potato sticks and a secret pink blackboard that reads “Never in a better setting. always be trans- sauce, has already won numer- Settle” in large, scripted letters. “Fast casual is the answer ous awards and accolades, from “In any restaurant, I really to the question, ‘How do we parent with Zagat to the Food Network to want to know what I’m eating. democratize fine food?’” says everything, so a People’s Choice Award at the We decided to always be Othman. “We consider our- Wine & Food transparent with everything, so selves fast-casual 2.0, because that what we Festival. And as for the Pincho, that what we eat here is what in addition to high quality and eat here is what with its cilantro, mango and we would eat at home,” says moderate price, we are in a cool lemon pepper sauces, “we still Othman, who got the idea setting, with cool music, super Living we would eat at use my mom’s recipe. There is for the name of the restaurant high-ingredients that are hor- nothing like it,” says Othman. during a trip to India, when he mone free, and sustainable, like home Patrons apparently agree. saw a place called The Kebob using real silver wear instead “This is like Latin comfort Factory. of disposables. We are getting food,” said one patron at their In addition to climbing closer and closer to casual food, Gables location. “I eat here aboard the fresh-ingredient so our competition is going to all the time.” Among the movement, the Pincho Factory be Applebees and Chili’s, not reasons for their popularity is also recognized by such food Chipotle.” Shake Shack, eat is the chain’s obsession with industry publications as QSR your heart out.

A Latte with April that Loan? Calendar p36 GOOD COFFEE AND FINANCIAL ADVICE WHAT’S ON DAY AND NIGHT

ith the new Miracle wants to bank digitally. But Mile evolving quick- they also want the personal Homage to Wes Anderson Wly towards a Café Society touch. “They want a human identity, can it be any wonder connection,” says Mike Fried- that banks would follow suit? man, the Capital One Market- Birthday Bash for a Jazz Legend Banks? Now comes Capital ing Lead for Florida, , One Café, a marriage between and Philadelphia, explaining Peet’s Coffee and Capital One that Capital One Cafes gives Tropical Art Bank. Located at 50 Miracle people – including gun-shy Mile, the latest evolution in millenials – a more relaxed Designing History retail banking is part of a na- environment for just that. tionwide rollout in select cities. “They are a place where The concept: Come on people can recharge their bank Opera Salon in, order a coffee, and lounge accounts, devices and lives around on some comfy-look- while learning new ways to ing couches while talking manage their money, try out personal finance with a cool, new digital and financial tools, THE OPEN STAGE JAZZ SERIES PRESENTS Capital One banker. Yes, these or simply grab a great cup of LEGENDARY TRUMPETER AND SAXOPHONIST IRA SULLIVAN days just about everybody coffee or local pastry,” he says.

30 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photography by Felipe S. Avello 31 Living Homage to Wes Anderson LOVABLE DOG STORY WITH A BITE Bringing Birthday Bash for a Jazz Legend the future of ow in its fifth year, the present legendary horn man Open Stage Club in Ira Sullivan, for a bash that Ndowntown CG continues its will honor his 87th birthday. commitment to quality jazz Chicago-born Sullivan, who with its Monday night Miami has played with such jazz real estate to Jazz Coop series. Thanks to greats as Art Blakey and bop enlightened club owner Juan trumpeter Red Rodney, is a Della Torre, “we present world long-time fixture in the South class jazz every single week,” Florida music scene, where he ans of the quirky and called Trash Island. Naturally says Rick Katz, the Coop’s ex- has worked with other notable ecutive director. “Sometimes I locals Jaco Pastorius and Pat Coral Gables highly original filmmaker a boy (12-year-old ward of FWes Anderson will be pleased corrupt Mayor Kobayashi) have to pinch myself because of Metheny. Make a reservation that the Coral Gables Art Cin- steals a plane to reach the some of the people we put on.” to see the legend wail. ema is running his latest film island in search of his beloved Adding to the list of such “Isle of Dogs” for a week in bodyguard-dog. Pulling from jazz luminaries as Sammy April 30 (Mon.), 7 pm & 9 pm April – following a quick jam the popular success of using Figueroa, Maria Rivas, Ed Advance ticketing $10 to $25 session of five of the master’s the voice of George Clooney as Calle, Joe Donato, and Dave Open Stage Club, 2325 Galiano flicks at the start of the month. fantastic Mr. Fox (and Meryl Liebman, this month the St. 305.441.7902 For those lucky enough to Streep for Mrs. Fox), Anderson Open Stage jazz series will find the time, the Cinema is has lined up a stunning array showing “Moonrise Kingdom,” of Hollywood vocal chords, Let us help you find your place in the world. “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” including those of Scarlett Jo- Tree Top Art and “Rushmore” on April hansson, Frances McDormand, Fool’s day (Sunday, April 1), Harvey Keitel, Edward Norton, WITH THE GREATEST OF EASE followed by “Fantastic Mr. Fox” Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum and f the plants at Fairchild spin in the breeze. The creations and “The Royal Tanenbaums” many more (even Yoko Ono). Tropical Botanic Garden of Polish sculptor and painter April 2-4. CNN calls it “a bit like ‘60s TV Icould talk, they’d tell you, life Jerzy Kędziora, “The Art of Then comes “Isle of Dogs,” specials on psychedelics.” is a balancing act. The garden’s Balance” is the latest in a series a stop-motion romp (think latest series of sculptures would of art exhibits for Fairchild. “Wallace and Gromit,” but Isle of Dogs, April 6-12 say the same thing. Dangling Since 2005 the gardens have with bigger production values) Coral Gables Art Cinema high in the tree canopy with no featured works by more than a set in a future Japan, in which 260 Aragon Ave. safety nets below, nine heavy dozen world-renowned artists, Audrey Ross all dogs of Magasaki City are www.gablescinema.com bronze statues of trapeze artists including Fernando Botero, 305.206.4003 banned to a vast garbage dump 786.472.2249 [email protected] defy gravity as they rock and Dale Chihuly, Roy Lichten-

Not intended to solicit currently listed property. © Compass Florida, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Compass makes no 32 thecoralgablesmagazine.com warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. Living Opera Salon CULTURE KLATCHES FOR THE GABLES ERUDITE

stein, and even Yoko Ono. Poland as it transitioned from For Kędziora, the sculp- Soviet rule. The Art of Balance tures represent his own runs through April 30th, and is experience of finding a delicate included in the garden’s general balance while coming of age in admission fees.

his month the Florida azonas” excerpts sung by Florida Designing History Grand Opera is holding Grand Opera Studio artists with DEERING ESTATE TRANSFORMED FOR CHARITY Ta series of lectures in Coral performances by actors. Gables that use the compa- April 11 (Wed.), 7:30pm ny’s mainstage production of Gables Stage at the Biltmore Daniel Catán’s “Florencia en 1200 Anastasia Ave. el Amazonas” as the platform 305.445.1119 for discussions. At each of the three, free lectures, music will Ecology of the Rainforest enliven the conversation, all set This collaboration brings against the magical realism of experts from Fairchild to the first Spanish-language op- discuss preserving the world’s era commissioned by a major largest, most diverse rainforest, U.S. opera company (Houston followed by “Amazonas” high- Grand Opera, 1996). lights sung by Studio artists. he Junior League of Mi- activate spaces in the historic Metamorphosis: Journey of April 17 (Tues.), 7:30pm ami, based here in Coral homes,” say Jennifer Tistham- the Human Spirit Fairchild Tropical Botanic TGables, is giving the historic mer, director of the estate. The An exploration of the time- Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Deering Estate a makeover to Junior League’s last showhouse less themes of love, loss and Road. 305.667.1651 increase awareness and raise event, held at self-discovery, featuring voices money for the 91-year-old in 2016, raised $350,000. The from the Florida Grand Opera If after these talks you want non-profit to continue its work 1,000-woman volunteer orga- Studio and spoken words from more, the Café at Books and helping at-risk families. nization was founded in 1926, scholars at the FIU Green Books in the Arsht Center The League, working with 4 years after Deering began liv- School. will hold an opera-themed the Deering Estate Founda- ing at the estate, and one year April 7 (Sat.), 6pm farm-to-table dinner April 23, tion, has invited dozens of before his death. Coral Gables Congregational from 6pm to 8pm, prepared by interior designers to tempo- Church, 3010 De Soto Blvd. Chef Allen Susser. Chef Allen’s rarily decorate the rooms of April 14 to 29 (Tues.-Sun., 11 305.448.7421 Monday Night Farm to Table the former home of industrial am-5 pm) Dinner: Opera Edition - Daniel magnate Charles Deering. Tickets: General Admission $40 Spoken and Sung: A Collabo- Catán’s “Florencia en el Amazo- Working within historic ($250 Gala Night 4.14) ration with Gables Stage nas” will cost $25 per person + preservation standards, “This The Deering Estate, 16701 SW Inspired by the magical realism $14 optional wine. To RSVP, will be a turning point for us 72nd Ave. Palmetto Bay of “Love in the Time of Chol- email Keith Green: keith@ as we reach new audiences and miamishowhouse.org era,” this conversation pairs “Am- booksandbooks.com 35 Living

Grammies) April 28 (Sat.) 8pm “5’ 6”, 7, 8! Lamentations Thoroughly Modern Millie April 25 (Wed.) 8pm $32-$52 of Two Broadway Bound Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Tickets $39 to $125 Amphitheater (Miami Showgirls” about a small town girl in New York Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) Downtown Jazz Fest) An evening of classic Broadway song April 27-May 6 (Fri. & Sat. 7:30pm, Plastic Soul: Beatles Florida Grand Opera: and dance Sun. 5pm) Tribute April 7 (Saturday), 7:30pm, tickets $10 Tickets $10 to $25 Florencia The magical story of a to $25 Area Stage Company Pretend you’re back in the clubs of Brazilian soprano’s emotional journey Area Stage Company Hamburg with the boys back home You’re A Good Man, April 26 (Thurs.) 7pm, 9pm April 28-May 5 (Tues., Fri. 8pm, Sat. 7 Gloria Charlie Brown Cover $10-$15 pm, Sun. 2pm) 2016 Pulitzer finalist for drama, fast- Musical based on the Charles M. Open Stage Club Tickets $23 to $179 talking look at office politics Schultz “Peanuts” comic strip Arsht Center (Ziff Ballet Opera April 7-May 6 (Thurs., Fri, Sat. 8pm, April 28-May 19 (Saturdays, 2pm); DANCE Miami Downtown Jazz House) Festival Sun. 2pm, 7pm) tickets $20 Tickets: $45 to $60 depending on day Actor’s Playhouse Apollo Return of the annual bash, music at five The Hidden Love of Clara & Johannes Gables Stage at the Biltmore ’s performance of concert stages Balanchine’s first great masterwork April 26-28 (Thurs.-Sat.) The Miami Symphony Orchestra Fun Home ART/MUSEUMS April 13, 14, 15 (Fri., Sat., 8pm; Mostly Free performs Brahms (Symphony 1) and Recent Tony Award winner for Best Sun. 2pm) Locations at: Schumann Musical about growing up with a Sheltering Survivors Tickets $25 to $105 www.MiamiDowntownJazzFestival.org April 29 (Sunday) 6pm volatile, brilliant dad Explores how forcibly displaced pop- Arsht Center (Ziff Ballet Opera Tickets $35 to $122 April 12-May 13 (Wed.-Sat. 7:30pm, ulations resettle with innovative shelters Dr. Lonnie Smith and Kurt Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) House) Elling Master Sat. 3pm, Sun. 4pm) Through May 27; admission $7, $5 Tickets: $55, general admission children Che Malambo April An Intimate Evening Jazz organist and Grammy-winning Ira Sullivan’s 87th Birthday Party Arsht Center (Carnival Studio Coral Gables Museum (Felwell Argentine percussive dance and music with David Foster jazz vocalist Theater) Gallery) spectacle 25 April 27 (Fri), 7pm Honoring the jazz saxophonist great April 15 (Sun.) 8pm Tickets $25-$100 April 30 (Mon.), 7pm and 9pm The Other Mozart Cross Pollination: Honey- Tickets $30 to $75 Olympia Theater (Miami Downtown Advance ticketing $10 to $25 True story of the forgotten Maria Anna bees and Murano Glass Jazz Fest) Open Stage Club Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) Edmar Castañeda & Jazz with Roxana Amed Tickets $44 to $129 Mozart, sister of Amadeus Sculpture by Judi Harvest from the Gregoire Maret Duo Venice Biennale I Am Tango Argentine vocalist and songwriter Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) Harp vs Harp, unusual combination of April 13 (Fri.) 8pm Through May 2; admission $7, $5 The evolution of Tango over time, by harp and harmonica Tickets $15 general admission Ed Calle Special children dance company Tango Lovers April 7 (Sat.) 7:30 and 9:30pm WDNA Jazz Gallery The legendary local saxman Coral Gables Museum (Abraham April 21 (Sat.) 8pm Tickets $35 in advance, $40 day of April 18 (Wed) 6pm, 8pm Family Gallery) Tickets $35 to $65 SMDCAC (Black Box Theater) Raul di Blasio Live Cover $10-$15 April SMDCAC (Main Stage) Argentine pianist, part of the Design Open Stage Club Antillean Visions: Maps & JJ Hairston and Youthful District Performance Series produced the Making of the Caribbean Spotlight on Contemporary Praise Chucho Valdés: Irakere 45 13-15 Female Choreographers by Emilio Estefan Nearly 200 rare, beautiful, and histori- Gospel Music. Part of the Free Gospel April 13 (Fri.) 6-9pm. The most influential figure in Afro- cally significant maps of the Caribbean Dimensions Dance Theater of Miami Sundays series Free Cuban Jazz, part of the Jazz Roots series The Other Mozart Through May 27; admission $12.50, $8 performs 21st century ballet April 8 (Sun.) 5pm Palm Court, Miami April 20 (Fri) 8pm students and seniors April 21 & 22 (Sat. 3:30pm, 7:30pm; Free (reserve online) Tickets $45 to $125 Sun. 3:30pm) Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) 90s Retro Night, featuring Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) Tickets $45 ($65 VIP) Project Soul “Year of Glass” Jon Secada Live SMDCAC (Lab Theater) UM Frost Studio Jazz Band Part of the Design District Palm Court Installation of 150+ pieces from Palley Part of the Monday Night Jazz Coop Performance Series produced by Emilio Part of the Design District Perfor- collection of studio art glass MUSIC Series Estefan mance Series produced by Emilio All year; admission $12.50, $8 students April 9 (Mon.) 7pm and 9pm April 14 (Sat.) 5pm. Estefan and seniors Jazz Vocal Showcase Cover $10 Free April 20 (Fri.) 6-9pm. Lowe Art Museum (Myrna and Shel- Open Stage Club Palm Court, Miami Free don Palley Pavilion) Marva Lewis, Ashley Pezzotti, Melinda Palm Court, Miami Rodriquez Music on the Mile La Bohéme Dignity: Tribes in Martin Bejerano Presents: April 2 (Mon.) 7pm UM Professors Miami Lyric Opera performs Puccini’s Transition Cover $10 Cuban American John Redmond & Raina Murnak classic tale of love in 19th century Paris Photographer Dana Gluckstein’s hom- Open Stage Club Award-winning jazz pianist and April 10 (Tues.) 6-8pm April 14 & 15 (Sat. 8pm, Sun. 4pm) age to indigenous peoples composer Free Tickets $35 Through April 22; admission $12.50, Alto Madness III April 23 (Mon) 7pm and 9pm The Plaza at 150 Miracle Mile SMDCAC (Main Stage) $8 students and seniors Alto Sax men Joe Donato and Jesse Cover charge $10 Lowe Art Museum Jones, part of the South Dade Jazz Noches de Guataca John Hart CD Release Open Stage Club Wednesday series Venezuelan composer and cuatro player Event Miso Live in Palm Court THEATER April 13-15 (Fri. & Sat. 8:30 pm, Sat. The World’s Game: April 4 (Wed.) 8pm (w. Adam Scone on the Hammond B3 Silk Road Ensemble with & Sun. 3pm) Hector Molina Part of the Design District Perfor- Fútbol and Contemporary Art Tickets $20 in advance, $25 day of Organ) Part of the Monday Night Jazz Yo-Yo Ma Tickets $35 April 12 (Thurs.) 7pm mance Series produced by Emilio The Bodyguard Contemporary art devoted to the SMDCAC (Black Box Theater) Coop Series SMDCAC (Main Stage) Cover $20 Renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma performs Estefan Musical based on romantic thriller of a beautiful game April 16 (Mon.) 7pm and 9pm Monica Mancini and the Open Stage Club music inspired by the Silk Road April 27 (Fri) 6-9pm. bodyguard protecting a superstar Pirates of Penzance April 13-Sept. 2; admission $16, $12 Cover $10 Frost Mancini Orchestra April 23 (Mon) 8pm Free April 3-8 (Tues.-Sat. 8pm, Sat. 2pm, students and seniors Cendrillon Open Stage Club The Gilbert & Sullivan classic Tickets $50 to $160 Palm Court, Miami Sun.1pm, 7pm) Pérez Art Museum Miami Part of the Design District Perfor- Frost Opera production of Jules Arsht Center (Knight Concert Hall) April 19-28 (8pm all days except Sun. mance Series produced by Emilio Symphonie Fantastique Tickets $29 to $105 & Mon., 2pm Sat. & Sun.) Massenet’s Cinderella story, in French Arturo Sandoval Arsht Center (Ziff Ballet Opera Now’s the Time: Estefan (w subtitles) The South Florida Symphony Orches- An Intimate Evening with Tickets $12 to $27 The jazz trumpet legend, plus jazz House) Narratives of Southern Alchemy April 6 (Fri.) 6-9pm. April 12 & 14 (Thurs. & Sat.) 7:30pm tra performs the Berlioz classic, plus David Foster Jerry Herman Ring Theatre (UM) vocalist Lizz Wright, jazz violinist Works by painter, photographer, sculp- Free Tickets $25 (seniors $20) Ravel and Borenstein The piano ‘Hitman Tour’ by the Regina Carter tor William Cordova Palm Court, Miami UM Gusman Concert Hall April 18 (Wed) 7:30pm musician, songwriter and composer (16

36 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 37 Living

April 27-Oct. 7; admission $16, $12 That Made Them One Mary Gordon//There Your escape from civil war in Yemen students and seniors Story of Flemish American tapestry Heart Lies April 28, 7pm Pérez Art Museum Miami artist Jan Yoors Story of an American woman’s experi- April 15, 6pm ences during the Spanish Civil War Charles Frazier//Varina: INDIE FILM April 25, 8pm A Novel David Grann//Killers of the Frazier returns to the time and place of Flower Moon Mohammed Al Samawi: Cold Mountain during the American Go Grandriders True-life murder mystery by best-sell- The Fox Hunt Civil War Chinese Film Series (with subtitles) ing New Yorker staff writer A Refugee’s Memoir of Coming to April 30, 8pm April 4 (Wednesday) 6pm April 23, 8pm America. A young man’s harrowing Free Dooley Memorial, UM campus Isle of Dogs Latest from director Wes Anderson, star-studded stop-motion animation April 6-May 3 Tickets $11.75 ($10 seniors, students) Gables Art Cinema Look & See Documentary of rural America seen through the eyes of farmer Wendell Berry April 13 (Fri.) 8:30pm Tickets $12 SMDCAC (Classroom) Maps & the Making Ends of the Caribbean at Landfill Harmonic May 27 Story of the Recycled Orchestra, where the Lowe Art Museum Paraguayan trash-dump kids create music April 14-15 (Sat.-Sun.) 11am Tickets $11.75 ($10 seniors, students) Gables Art Cinema Le Challat de Tunis French Film Series (with subtitles) April 18 (Thursday) 7pm Free VENUES Coral Gables Museum Olympia Theater Dooley Memorial, UM campus 285 Aragon Ave. 174 E. Flagler St., Miami Actors Playhouse www.coralgablesmuseum.org www.olympiatheater.org Julius Ceasar 280 Miracle Mile 305.603.8067 305.374.2444 From fame to assassination, buy UK’s www.actorsplayhouse.org National Theatre Live, with star-stud- 305.444.9293 Fairchild Tropical Botanic Open Stage Club ded ensemble Garden Area Stage Company 2325 Galiano St. April 20-22 (Sat.-Mon.) Noon 10901 www.openstageclub.com Tickets $20 1560 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 103 www.fairchildgarden.org 305.441.7902 Gables Art Cinema www.areastagecompany.com 305.667.1651 305.666.2078 Palm Court Pretty Guardian Sailor Gables Stage at the Moon Arsht Center for the 140 NE 39th St., Miami Biltmore www.miamidesigndistrict.net Japanese anime comes to live in Sailor Performing Arts 11200 Anastasia Ave. Moon’s final battle to save the galaxy 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami www.gablestage.org Pérez Art Museum Miami April 28 & 29 (Sat.-Sun.) Noon www.arshtcenter.org 305.445.1119 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami Tickets $11.75 ($10 seniors, students) 786.468.2000 www.pamm.org Gables Art Cinema Gusman Concert Hall (UM) 305.375.3000 Bayfront Park Amphiteatre 1314 Miller Drive 301 N. Biscayne Blvd. 305.284.2438 SMDCAC READING www.bayfrontparkmiami.com (South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts (Books & Books) 305.358.7550 Jerry Herman Ring Theatre (UM) Center) Michael Finkel//Stranger Books & Books 10950 SW 211th St., Cutler Bay 1312 Miller Drive, UM Campus www.smdcac.org in the Woods 265 Aragon Ave. 305.284.3355 786.573.5316 Story of the last true hermit www.booksandbooks.com www.as.miami.edu/ringtheatre/boxoffice April 12, 8pm 305.442.4408 WDNA Jazz Gallery Lowe Art Museum (UM) Coral Gables Art Cinema 2921 , Miami Debra Dean//Hidden 1301 Stanford Drive www.wdna.org Tapestry: 260 Aragon Ave. www.lowe.miami.edu/ 305.662.8889 Jan Yoors, His Two Wives, and the War www.gablescinema.com 305.284.3535 786.472.2249

38 thecoralgablesmagazine.com People Camillo Ricordi, MD UM DIABETES RESEARCH SCIENTIST

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41 People THE TRUE VOICE OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE Camillo Ricordi, MD DIRECTOR OF THE UM DIABETES RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Camillo Ricordi is recog- 4550SUNSETDRIVE.COM Price Upon Request 7125ELAGODR.COM $2,999,000 647ALMERIAAVE.COM $1,796,000 nized as one of the world’s 4550 , Miami 7125 E Lago Drive, Coral Gables 647 Almeria Avenue, Coral Gables 6 beds | 4/1 baths | 5,640 sf | 49,223 sf lot 6 beds | 5/2 baths | 4,906 sf | 16,200 sf lot 4 beds | 4/1 baths | 3,485 sf lot leading researchers in Classic majestic estate on acre with storybook Modern two story home sits on a quiet cul-de-sac. Almeria Row’s Phase 1, number 647, is newly regenerative medicine (he setting. Basketball ct, pool, gated entry, 2-car garage. Beautiful atrium entrance with Koi Pond. available for purchase.

most recently addressed Dennis Carvajal | 786.255.3334 Gabriela Dajer | 786.290.3832 Mauricio J. Barba | 305.439.8311 the prestigious World Stem [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Cell Summit on “Stem Cell Innovations That Will Change the World”). His Nobel Prize-worthy dis- covery is how to transplant insulin-producing islet cells

from a donor pancreas 3625BATTERSEARD.COM $1,775,000 RECENTLY SOLD $1,150,000 3911GRANADABLVD.COM $1,499,000

into the liver of recipients 3625 Battersea Road, Miami 3511 Rivieria Drive, Coral Gables 3911 Granada Boulevard, Coral Gables with Type 1 diabetes, 5 beds | 3 baths | 3,078 sf | 10,500 sf lot 5 beds | 3 baths | 3,004 sf | 16,820 sf lot 4 beds | 2/1 baths | 3,150 sf | 10,000 sf lot reversing the disease. A Move right in! Completely updated one story home in This gorgeous residence is perfect for your family’s This Colonial style residence will bring back memories South Grove on a low traffic street! new memories for years to come. of a by gone era. 10-year FDA trial validating Gabriela Dajer | 786.290.3832 Jill Penman | 305.807.9199 Mauricio J. Barba | 305.439.8311 the procedure was com- [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] pleted last year.

LATEST ENDEAVOR WHAT HE SAYS

Working to expand the cure he “The biggest challenge now is the pancreas from producing The ultimate developed for Type 1 diabetes to overcome the auto-immune insulin. As a leading advocate reaction, so right now we are for regenerative medicine, he cure will be to limited to the most severe believes there may be a way for RECENTLY SOLD $800,000 RECENTLY SOLD $860,000 671BILTMOREWAY-601.COM $699,999 cases,” he says. “The ultimate patients to heal themselves. 1222 Cortez Street, Coral Gables 430 Alhambra Circle, Coral Gables 671 Biltmore Way, #601, Coral Gables induce immune cure will be to induce immune “We are also doing 4 beds | 3 baths | 2,698 sf | 5,000 sf lot 4 beds | 3 baths | 2,783 sf | 5,000 sf lot 3 beds | 2/1 baths | 1,870 sf tolerance tolerance. If you can do it with- research to induce the produc- out anti-rejection drugs, there tion of islets from the patients Elegant Old Spanish totally renovated in the Heart of Exquisite two story Old Spanish home with vintage Take advantage of this rare opportunity, this Boutique will be huge demand,” he says, themselves, to regenerate new Coral Gables. and charming details with new century upgrades. style building is unique to this area. including 1.2 million Amer- cells. That will be a healthcare Jill Penman | 305.807.9199 Jill Penman | 305.807.9199 Gabriela Dajer | 786.290.3832 icans with Type 1 diabetes, a economic revolution…” [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] genetic disorder that prevents

Reported by JP Faber AVENTURA · BAY HARBOR · BRICKELL · CORAL GABLES · FORT LAUDERDALE · JUPITER · KEY BISCAYNE Photo courtesy MIAMI BEACH · PALM BEACH GARDENS · STUART · SUNNY ISLES · WESTON

42 ©MMXVIII ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal thecoralgablesmagazine.com Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. The information contained herein is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Prices subject to change without notice. CoralGables magazineF.pdf 1 3/26/18 4:39 PM

People Yanik Ariste CORAL GABLES HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

Ariste won the HHF Busi- ness and Entrepreneurship category for her combi- nation of smarts, skills, and strategic vision. With a 4.0 GPA, she is actively involved in the Future Busi- ness Leaders of America,

the International Baccalau- C

reate Honor Society, and M the National Spanish Hon- Y or Society. But what won CM over the HHF committee MY was a series of essays she CY submitted on insurance CMY and risk management in K health care.

LATEST ACHIEVEMENT WHAT SHE SAYS

One of seven National Youth “We all go to the doctor and that insurance is the best way We may not Awardees (out of 10,000 appli- we all are going to go a lot in to mitigate that risk. have all the cants) recently honored by the our lifetime, but [risk manage- This led her to zero in on Hispanic Heritage Foundation. ment] is something we know healthcare. “We may not have experience that nothing about,” she says. Risk all the experience that an older management, she explains, is person may have, but teens are an older person an objective way for people and putting themselves out there… businesses to protect them- I’m going to prepare myself, may have... selves from catastrophes rang- [because] one day I want to be ing from natural disasters to able to impact the community. shaky financial markets, adding One day I want to lead.”

Reported by Odalis Garcia Photo by Matias J. Ocner

44 thecoralgablesmagazine.com People Mike Fernandez CHAIRMAN, MBF HEALTHCARE PARTNERS

Mike Fernandez is one of the most successful self- made entrepreneurs in the history of Florida, let alone his home base of Coral Gables, where he lives and has been involved with 27 startups. The billion- aire businessman turned philanthropist made his fortune creating healthcare companies. Now he most- ly tries to make the world a better place.

LATEST ENDEAVOR WHAT HE SAYS

Created the IMPAC Fund “We should be the country believes anti-immigration ad- last year to bring together area of inclusion, not exclusion,” vocates are fear mongers. “We I am as guilty leaders to support sensible im- says Fernandez. “When I left don’t have criminals coming migration policies. This year he Cuba, I was undocumented. here. People are coming here as anyone else is creating a $50 million PAC But I am as guilty as anyone because they want to work. to support politicians in favor else when it comes to the issue And they sustain their commu- when it comes of immigration reform. of immigration. Once we get nities back home, which is good to the issue of here we forget where we came for us, because it stabilizes their from.” Fernandez says his PAC government too… immigration immigration will “support politicians who is the single issue that most are for humanizing deportation represents America’s future and and immigration.” Fernandez past, and where we are today.”

Reported byJP Faber Photo by Matias J. Ocner

46 thecoralgablesmagazine.com By Doreen Hemlock

WITH MORE THAN $1.5 BILLION IN NEW MID-RISE DEVELOPMENT, CORAL GABLES CoralIS MAKING ITS CORE MORE DENSE. BUT IT’SGables DOING SO IN A CONTROLLED FASHION Rising ENVISIONED BY CITY FATHERS, CREATING MORE OF A LIVE-WORK-PLAY CITY

THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES 2901 Ponce de Leon Boulevard 48 SW 8TH STREET Coral Gables Rising NW 57TH AVE OFIZZINA 6 $18 million

With an investment food, beverage and entertain- NORTH 2020 SALZEDO 10 $60 million likely near $550 mil- ment venues. It will integrate THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES 4 GIRALDA PLACE CORAL WAY 1 lion, Mexico-linked with the public park across the 2901 Ponce de Leon Boulevard (nearly 7 acres) CORAL WAY $70 million developer Agave Ponce plans street, a two-acre green space BILTMORE PARC (completed) a mixed-use project spanning that could add cultural events 2 several blocks on Ponce de to draw more families to the

SW 42ND AVE Leon Boulevard on the same plaza area, said Carlos Beck- 1 THE PLAZA CORAL GABLES CORAL GABLES CITY CENTER $550 million property where Coral Gables mann, Agave Ponce’s director $250 million planner George Merrick kept of operations. his office nearly a century ago. Agave spent more than Merrick’s original building will $50 million to buy the nearly LAGUNA HOUSE be a centerpiece. seven-acre site that had been SW 40TH STREET $15 million 7 THE LINK AT DOUGLAS The Mediterranean-style idle for years. It aims to start 5 $500 million project features a semi-circu- construction in May and MERRICK MANOR 8 $59 million lar design anchored by two finish mid-2021. The project 3 GABLES STATION Class-A office towers, each will seek eco-friendly LEED $300 million at least 12-floors high. Set certification. further back around a central, The Agave group includes leafy plaza will be a 14-story members of the family behind luxury hotel with 240 rooms, the Jose Cuervo spirits business SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY a residential tower with 136 in Mexico. Its real-estate port- rental units, and multi-level folio includes the Class A-office 9 PASEO DE LA RIVIERA parking for some 2,250 vehi- building at 396 Alhambra that $172 million cles. The plaza will offer mostly hosts such top multinationals as ground-floor retail, including Tiffany and HBO.

n all his years living and working in Coral Gables, William tial projects, such as the Biltmore Parc condo on Valencia Ave, Holly of Patton Real Estate Group can’t remember a time with 32 luxury units starting at $1.2 million more than half sold, Iwhen he’s seen so much multi-story development in the according to Alirio Torrealba, who leads Coral Gables-based Real estate heavy- and, hopefully, with public “sky city. Holly recalls years when there was one or maybe two major MG Developer. weights The Allen parks” on upper floors. CORAL GABLES CITY CENTER 2 Morris Company and Plans call for at least 300 projects, but now there are more than half a dozen. They include But the City Beautiful is pursuing urban development in its 245 Andalusia Ave. and 345 Andalusia what may be the city’s largest yet: The Plaza Coral Gables, set to own unique way – not like Miami’s and Down- The Related Group are final- upscale apartments for rent, cost almost $550 million and feature apartments, offices, retail, a town neighborhoods, where skyscrapers stand shoulder to shoul- izing details on an estimated 140,000 square feet of Class hotel, townhouses and garages, all just a stroll from Miracle Mile. der and often top 70 floors. Coral Gables maintains strict codes $250 million project behind A-office space, 20,000 square “This wave of development is transformative,” says Hol- that limit heights to 190 feet, or roughly 16 floors, and then only Miracle Mile that they aim to feet of retail (mainly in a ly, because it expands the city’s existing core of live-work-play in buildings in its elegant Mediterranean style. make an icon, complete with covered arcade), and pedestrian neighborhoods, creates new ones, and knits more of those vibrant “The average building in Brickell is twice as tall as the tallest an arch the size of France’s alleyways that link to Mir- communities together. “Twenty years ago, that existed really just building in Coral Gables. The scale is completely different,” says Arc de Triomphe. “I believe it acle Mile. New garages will in downtown Coral Gables.” Coral Gables’ director of planning Ramon Trias. What’s more, will be the most photographed offer more than 1,300 parking Many of the projects tear down smaller, single-use struc- the 190-foot buildings in Coral Gables are set for commercial location in all of Miami. It spaces as well a “smart parking” tures and replace them with taller, mixed-use complexes on the areas that offer varied transit options, including the central will be so dramatic,” said Allen system that will show available same lot. New buildings typically offer ground-floor retail, with business district and on major thoroughfares such as South Dixie Morris, who calls himself “ob- spots and allow reservations residences or offices above, plus multi-story parking. Planners Highway, near Metrorail stations. sessive” about design and detail. through an app. hope the mixed-use hubs will lure more people to live in the The rising live-work-play neighborhoods are attracting The project entails demol- Developers hope to break neighborhood, and encourage workers and other visitors to forgo multinationals and other major firms who want walkability from ishing two city garages at 245 ground by early 2019. Con- their cars when in the area. More people walking – or using local Class-A office space without the traffic headaches of Brickell and 345 Andalusia Ave. and re- struction should take about 30 transit – to shop and eat should also keep local traffic in check. or Downtown Miami. They’re also luring empty-nesters and Mil- placing them with ground-floor months. The architect is John Over the next five years, at least $1.5 billion in mixed-use lennials, who are willing to pay a premium to live in apartments retail and more modern parking Cunningham of Zyscovich, projects are planned across Coral Gables, interviews with devel- or condos that allow them to stroll to shop, dine, exercise or see topped with an office tower and who worked with Morris on opers reveal. And that does not count some just finished residen- cultural events nearby. Retailers stand to gain, as more people an apartment tower, each in a his signature Alhambra Towers different Mediterranean style as well as other projects. Continued on page 56 50 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 51 Coral Gables Rising

Developer NP Interna- als and others who want to live Only its traffic circle apartments for workforce tional expects to break near shops and public transit, GABLES STATION 5 will sit inside Coral Ga- housing; 280,000 square feet THE LINK AT DOUGLAS ground this quarter on said Brent Reynolds, CEO bles, but the transit-ori- of office space; and 60,000 3 At Douglas Road and U.S. 1 (7.5 acres) its nearly $300 million Gables of NP International, and is 251 South Dixie Highway (4.3 acres) ented Link at Douglas will square feet of retail. Plans call Station venture along South expected to include a full-ser- bring some of the tallest build- for big screens to show public Dixie Highway, across from vice grocery store and large ings yet to the greater Gables transit schedules, plus areas for the Shops at Merrick Park and health-wellness center. NP In- area. Five new towers will rise at bike rentals, ride-sharing and a short walk from Metrorail’s ternational bought the narrow, least 19 stories each – one may autonomous vehicle drop-offs. Douglas Road Station. 4.3-acre site for $60.25 million be 35 floors – just beyond the “We want to be a transit-ori- The residential-retail from a group that considered a city’s edge in unincorporated ented development of the project features three 155-foot big-box shopping center there. Miami-Dade County. future,” said Aaron Stolear, towers with roughly 440 rental The property had hosted a car A public-private partner- an executive with 13th Floor apartments, 60 extended-stay dealership. Bank of the Ozarks ship, The Link is slated for 7.5 Investments. hotel units, 125,000 square feet provided a $158.4 million acres of county-owned land Developers aim to break of retail space, and a central construction loan. Completion at the Metrorail’s Douglas ground this year and finish by plaza. NPI tries to nurture is expected in late 2020. Road station. The site is now 2025, working with Corwil communities it builds by cre- Combined with NP Inter- a parking lot for Metrorail Architects of Coral Gables. ating gathering spaces through national’s $172 million Paseo riders. Development partners “What makes a project of this a concept it calls “Urban de la Riviera project underway Adler Group and 13th Floor scale viable is the structure of Living Room.” The project has about two miles farther south, Investments have a lease on the public-private partnership,” received top certification from developer Reynolds said, “We the land for 90 years. They’ll said Stolear. The county gets a the Transit Oriented Develop- look at these projects as the ar- add multi-level parking and Metrorail ridership boost and ment Institute. chitectural landmarks that will upgrade the station. a percentage of rents. Develop- Apartments at Gables bookend the city on the South The $500 million-plus ers get to build without buying Station are aimed at Millenni- Dixie Highway corridor.” project also features 1,375 the land. rental units, including small

Across Las Olas sold to relocating New Yorkers. The office-condo build- fice,” said Camilo Lopez, CEO 4 Boulevard from the Giralda Place Developers, ing in downtown Coral and managing partner of TSG pedestrian-only Giralda led by Heidi Eckes-Chantre, GIRALDA PLACE 6 Gables called Ofizzina Group. TSG and partner BF OFIZZINA Plaza, developers are putting Kim Tabet and Christopher 2222 Ponce de Leon Boulevard is set for completion in mid- Group co-developed the of- 1200 Ponce de Leon Boulevard the finishing touches on the Brown, also finished renova- 2018, and it’s already more fice-condo with amenities of- Giralda Place office-residen- tion on an existing seven-sto- than 80 percent sold, according ten found in residential condos, tial-retail project. The roughly ry office-retail complex on to Miami-based developer including a rooftop lounge, $70 million venture spans a city the east side of the property. TSG Group. fitness room, espresso bar and block and includes the addition Office-sharing chain We Work The 16-story project offers charging stations for electric of a nine-story complex of has rented multiple floors in 54 Class-A offices spanning cars. They worked with Corwil street-level retail, Class A office that section, its first foray into some 97,000 square feet, plus Architects of Coral Gables, space and 33 luxury residences. Coral Gables. In all, the devel- three retail spaces on the contractors Beauchamp-Ocean, Prices for the new opment offers 101,300 square ground floor and more than plus New York-based interior condo units start in the low feet of office space, plus 420 300 parking spots. Investors designer MKDA, which has a $900,000s. Each unit features parking spaces. have purchased offices rang- Miami office. 11-foot ceilings, custom Italian Construction on Giralda ing from about 700 square An affiliate of TSG Group cabinetry and some of the larg- Place began in April 2016. feet to entire floors of some paid nearly $7 million for the est private terraces downtown. John Fullerton of the Fullerton 9,000 square feet. Prices have roughly 32,000 square foot Condo residents also have Group Architects of Coral topped $750 per square foot. property in 2014. Developers access to a full floor for leisure Gables handled design. Com- Among those buying: banks later secured a $10.5 million facilities that include a pool, pletion is expected mid-year on and wealth-management firms, construction loan from an off- day beds and a wet bar. B+G what co-developer Brown calls including some from Europe shore entity. They broke ground Design of Fort Lauderdale is “one coveted address that can and South America. “Buyers in September 2016. Selling out handling interiors for common be enjoyed by buyers, tenants can either purchase a space for the development should bring areas. Some units have been and the community.” end use or opt to lease that of- in some $80 million, TSG said.

52 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 53 Coral Gables Rising

On the site of a former the area, Paseo de la Riviera Miami-based Roger ny also is working in Coral Holiday Inn hotel on apartments aim to appeal to Development Group Gables on the residential Villa LAGUNA HOUSE 9 PASEO DE LA RIVIERA 7 South Dixie Highway urban professionals, who seek plans to break ground Biltmore project at 1228 Anas- 4220 Laguna Street across from the University of the convenience of shopping, 1350 South Dixie Highway (2.66 acres) this year on its 10-story bou- tasia Ave. on the Biltmore golf Miami, developer NP Interna- entertainment and other ame- tique condo Laguna House at course, which Roger calls the tional broke ground this Janu- nities within walking distance. 4220 Laguna Street, directly “the only multi-family project ary on its $172 million Paseo The project also will link to a across from the Shops at allowed on the golf course in de la Riviera project, designed pedestrian bridge across South Merrick Park. The mixed-use that area.” The venture includes to feature two towers around a Dixie Highway to access to project features 13 upscale 11 luxury condos in two 3-sto- public plaza with restaurants, the nearby Metrorail station condos and three street-level ry buildings, with one or two shops and art. as well as city and university retail spaces. Each floor is set units per floor. Each unit av- The much-discussed ven- trolley systems. to include two residences av- erages about 2,800 square feet ture highlights a 10-story hotel Developers bought the eraging 3,000 square feet each, and has private elevator access. with 241 rooms, a 12-story 2.66-acre property for $44 while the penthouse spans a Each also comes with three residential building with 204 million in 2016. Completion is full floor. Units are priced from parking spaces, “a huge plus apartments above retail and expected in early 2020. about $1.5 million to $2.2 mil- and very rare” amenity among parking, some 34,000 square With offices in Minne- lion and the penthouse at $3.2 luxury condos, said Roger Jr. feet of commercial space and sota, Miami, New York and million, said Oscar Roger Jr., Also designed by PGAL 636 parking spaces. Apartments Costa Rica, NP International who runs the family business architects, the $15 million are expected to rent for about is a fourth-generation family alongside his father. Villa Biltmore project likely $3 per square foot, according to business. Its mixed-use projects The roughly $15 million will break ground by mid-year Brent Reynolds, NP Interna- also include a 64-acre venture project, designed by architect and be completed by late 2019, tional’s chief executive officer. at the University of Florida that PGAL, is slated to take 18 according to Roger Jr. Offering greater density features a transit hub, parks, months to build. The compa- than previously allowed in plus biking and walking paths.

Coral Gables-based Community Bank provided a developer The Astor $59 million construction loan. Coral Gables-based BC Architects of Coral 8 Companies expects Among amenities, Merrick MERRICK MANOR developer Codina Gables designed the Mediter- 2020 SALZEDO completion late this year on Manor will offer 24-hour 10 301 Altara Avenue Partners and its affiliate ranean-style tower. Facchina 2020 Salzedo Street (1.6 acres) Merrick Manor, a 10-story valet parking, 24-hour front- CC Residential are close to Construction is general con- Mediterranean-style building desk service, a business center, finishing a luxury apart- tractor. Regions Bank provided with 227 upscale condomini- fourth-floor club lounge, fitness ment-office project at 2020 a $53.5 million loan. Codina ums and 19,000 square feet center, and a pool with barbecue Salzedo in downtown Coral paid more than $6 million for of ground-floor retail at 301 facilities. Building architects are Gables, a block from Ponce de parcels to assemble the roughly Altara Avenue by the Shops at Behar Font & Partners, with Leon Boulevard. The venture 1.6-acre property in the city Merrick Park. landscape design from Witkin features a 16-story residential core, executives confirmed. More than 55 percent of Hults Design Group. Astor has tower with 213 luxury rentals, Developers broke ground the project’s one- to five-bed- opened a sales gallery at 4200 a seven-floor parking garage on the project in April 2015 room units already are under Laguna Street showcasing a with 566 spaces, plus offices and and expect completion by contract, with the remaining one-bedroom unit with designs retail in a six-floor building. mid-2018. One retail tenant residences priced from the from Interiors by Steven G. The Class-A office space drawing buzz: pastry chef $500,000s to $2.5 million, the The pitch to buyers: Live near – nearly 50,000 square feet – is Antonio Bachour. He plans a company announced. shops, cafes, restaurants, wine almost fully leased. Tenants bakery, restaurant and pastry Led by founder, president bars, art galleries, and theaters include architectural design firm academy in 5,200 square feet and CEO Henry Torres, Astor for a lifestyle reminiscent of HKS, tech-enabled learning firm of street-level space, which broke ground on Merrick European villages. Ilumno Management, law firm includes a courtyard. The locale Manor in January 2017 and Said Torres: “We are Stearns Weaver, plus the head- will be the first in Florida for topped off construction ahead seeing a lot of interest from the quarters for Codina Partners and the noted Puerto Rican chef of schedule in October despite Northeast, and the brutal win- its affiliates. Blanca Commercial who has been working at the Hurricane Irma. Jaxi Builders ter up there will only intensify Real Estate is the exclusive St. Regis Bal Harbour resort. is general contractor. Florida demand.” leasing agent for the offices.

54 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 55 Continued from page 50 nearby bring more customers night and day – without driving. Jennifer and Kenneth Garcia embrace the live-work-play lifestyle. The couple moved to downtown Coral Gables from straight out of college a decade ago. As the area has become more urban and transit options have multiplied, they’ve given up their car. They now usually walk or bike to work, ride city trolleys or take ride-sharing services like Lyft for shorter trips, and occasionally, rent cars for longer excursions. The couple enjoys being car free and developing relationships with shopkeep- ers and restauranteurs in their neighborhood. “Being small town-ish people – I’m from Kansas City and Kenneth is from Costa Rica – Coral Gables has that mid-size city character we like,” says Jennifer Garcia, on why the pair of urban planners opted against a more vertical, denser community. While the projects don’t represent an explosion in develop- ment, they are significant for a city of some 51,000 residents. In new condos, for example, Coral Gables is “is punching above its population size,” says Peter Zalewski, founder of CraneSpotters, which focuses on pre-construction condos. In the 2011-2017 period, Cranespotters tallied 1,166 new condos proposed for the city. Still, that was just 2.5 percent of the total proposed in coastal South Florida and ranked the city No. 9 among 34 markets studied. “It’s very balanced,” says Ron Shuffield, CEO of brokerage EWM International Realty, of the city’s development. Unlike parts of Miami-Dade County that have been overbuilt, Coral Gables has a manageable inventory of luxury condos and luxury homes, and its offices and retail space command premiums. One indicator of the city’s allure: The median price for a condo sold in the last quarter of 2017 was about $379,000, about 65 percent more than the $230,000 paid countywide, said Shuffield. Perhaps the biggest change afoot is mixed-use development planned South Dixie Highway, aka U.S.1. Long-time Coral Gables architect Victor Dover, of Dover, Kohl & Partners Town Planning, is working on designs for the thoroughfare, where many parking lots and fences now face the street. He foresees new complexes that “are street-oriented and will bring an architectural positivity on that corridor.” That density is in line with the design of the city’s original planner George Merrick, says Dover. “The city is allowing growth to take place in the areas where Merrick [and subsequent city planners] always envisioned denser growth, not allowing it to invade the single-family homes, to protect them from any dramatic impact, but allowing for growth where the transportation options are most plentiful,” explains Dover. “U.S.1 is congested at peak hours …Therefore, we should get on with the business of creating better spaces that can use walking, bicycles and mass transit.” This survey of 10 major projects in Coral Gables, including the $500 million-plus Link at Douglas over the city’s edge by the Douglas Road Metrorail station. The largest project: The Plaza Coral Gables, rising on the same property where Gables planner Merrick kept his office nearly a century ago.

56 thecoralgablesmagazine.com THREE YEARS AFTER THE CITY DECIDED TO MOVE FOR- WARD, AND 18 MONTHS AFTER CONSTRUCTION BEGAN, THE STREETSCAPE PROJECT TO TRANSFORM GIRALDA AVENUE AND MIRACLE MILE IS FINALLY COMPLETE. NOW TO SEE IF IT PAYS OFF. THE GREAT By Julienne Gage SIDEWALK EXPERIMENT

FINALLY IT’S DONE. The process of tearing up Miracle Mile to going to draw them in.” widen and beautify its sidewalks, which If there were any doubts about the ef- began in the summer of 2016, is now fect that widening the sidewalks will have complete. In place of damaged sidewalks on Miracle Mile, just go there on a Friday In the old days, the Mile was that were a mere 8-feet wide, the main night. At Tarpon Bend, where the propri- promenade of downtown Coral Gables is etors cried foul during the construction dead after hours. People are now truly that: a tree-lined boulevard with process, there are hundreds of handsomely 23-foot-wide sidewalks where people can dressed millennials pouring onto the side- walk, stroll, saunter or – and this is key – walk in a massive singles scene that would coming back now... enjoy the pleasures of an outdoor café. have been impossible a year earlier. Peter Iglesias, Coral Gables “It’s the way it was supposed to be, On the other side of the street, the Assistant City Manager like a pedestrian plaza, a new experience music is throbbing at Copper 29 and for being indoors and outdoors,” said nearby at Plomo, both packed. And up and Coral Gables Business Improvement down the boulevard clusters of café tables District (BID) Executive Director Taciana are emerging from restaurants like the Amador. “People want to have a wonderful heads of shy turtles, peeking out to see if walking and shopping experience, they it’s okay to emerge. Tables now sit outside want to have sidewalk cafes. That’s what’s The Red Koi, Ortanique, Loui’s, the Sushi

Photograph byMatias J. Ocner 59 Club, etc., all being filled by diners happy walkability. Baby Boomers likewise wanted A LONG AND BUMPY ROAD to see that the sidewalks now belong to to grow old gracefully in more walkable, them and not to the backhoes, tractors, and age-friendly communities. But getting to the new Miracle Mile and traffic barriers that have haunted the street Those trends got city planners to put Giralda Plaza was a long struggle, full of for longer than anyone cares to remember. together a volunteer steering committee literal and metaphorical potholes. Like it At last, Coral Gables’ Streetscape and reach out to the University of Miami’s or not, growing pains were inevitable, says At last we’ll have strategy, a $21 million construction project School of Architecture to create some Assistant City Manager Iglesias. aimed at updating Miracle Mile and cre- studies. But before the project could get “It’s never a good time to do some- enough space for ating a pedestrian mall on nearby Giralda underway, the Gables got hit with another thing like this because you’re tearing down Avenue, is coming to fruition, and signs of storm: the recession. It would take six more the street, you’re taking away parking, people to happily new life are everywhere. This is especially years for the economy to recover and for construction’s very messy,” says Iglesias. apparent on Giralda’s block-long pedestri- city planners to feel confident enough to Some of that parking would never return; stroll, and more an mall, completed months before Miracle move forward. By then, the Mile was yet a key element in the re-design was to Mile, its outdoor restaurant tables now another decade older and more tattered. completely remove parking from Giralda, strolling is exactly bustling with diners. But the effect will be BEFORE Finally, in 2014, the city hired New now a pedestrian mall, and to eliminate even more profound on Miracle Mile, the York architecture firm Cooper-Robertson the space-eating angular parking on Mir- TREES WERE UPLIFTING THE AGING NARROW SIDEWALKS what you’ll see... city’s core downtown avenue, which was to conceptualize a redevelopment program acle Mile, replacing it with limited parallel literally breaking apart before its current that would repair and widen sidewalks parking. Shoppers will now have to adjust revamping. buckled from time, flooding, and the roots to the idea that a nearby parking garage is of old trees, turn angled parking spaces the best solution for shopping the Mile. Victor Dover , Coral AN OVERDUE MAKEOVER into parallel ones, and update the land- The construction process also took Gables urban planner scaping and lighting. The city then hired longer than expected, rolling right past “The Mile was in not in good shape for construction company Ric-Man to execute the completion target of August 2017 quite some time. The trees had uplifted those designs, with the goal of finishing and into the holiday season. It would be the sidewalks, the tile was broken, we had the work by the fall of 2017. October before Giralda was complete, and some additional tile but that was used up What the city anticipated was some- it was not until March 2018 that the city in the repairs,” says Coral Gables Assistant thing akin to what happened on Ocean announced the Miracle Mile Streetscape City Manager Peter Iglesias, who, as the Drive, a kind of build-it-and-they-will- Project close to completion, with only director of operations and infrastructure, come experiment. In the case of Ocean “punch list” items – minor corrections, oversaw the project for the city. “It just drive, Miami Beach’s decision in the 1990s touch-up work – remaining. looked very, very shoddy, and we were to widen the sidewalks there by moving the The drawn-out process, which closed actually using asphalt to take care of some street closer to the ocean by 20 feet led to streets during construction, literally drove of the elevation differences, which caused an overnight explosion in street-side cafés. some of the merchants out of business. trip hazards.” DURING “At last we’ll have enough space for And while most remained, there were City leaders have been aware of the CONSTRUCTION BLOCKED THE STREETS people to happily stroll, and more strolling plenty of complaints – especially when need to upgrade for years, even decades. is exactly what you’ll see,” noted Coral you consider that property owners will be Current Mayor Raúl Valdés-Fauli remem- Gables urban planner Victor Dover, author paying 40 percent of the price tag (via a bers how in his first term in office (1993 of Street Design: The Secret to Great Cities 22-year bond) for the improvements. to 2001) the city was able to improve the and Towns. “I think of the good advice Fred At Tarpon Bend, the restaurant’s street with a median strip and turning Kent gives, ‘When you design a city for cars owner and operator, Wayne Eldred, was lanes, but not the sidewalks. Those came and traffic, you get cars and traffic. When livid. Last August, the former Coral Ga- under scrutiny a decade later, in 2008, you design for people and places, you get bles Chamber of Commerce member told when city planners grew tired of merely people and places.’ We’re about to see Mira- The that he’d lost between repairing the ongoing damage caused by cle Mile reflect a much healthier balance.” $800,000 and $1 million during Street- events like Hurricane Katrina. Donald Clinton, a lead partner in scape’s construction, calling a project he “You can only patch up so much,” said Cooper-Robertson, says the natural stone once supported a “Shakespearian tragedy,” Jillian Hornik, sales manager and gradu- mosaics of the wide, curb-less walkways – and adding “The majority of this work was ate gemologist at her family’s 73-year-old multicolored swirls on Giralda and a gray never supposed to hurt the businesses and business on Miracle Mile, Jae’s Jewelers. and white motif on Miracle Mile – en- it’s done exactly that.” “Water was pooling and coming into store- courage strolling, while the modern stone Other merchants echoed Eldred’s fronts every time it rained, and in some benches give opportunities for resting complaints. Wolfe’s Wine shop owner blocks the water was well over a foot deep.” AFTER and socializing. Extra flora and fauna give Jeffery Wolfe posted on his website, “The Around that same time, the millen- WIDE SIDEWALKS ENCOURAGE OUTDOOR CAFES the area a lush, South Florida feel, while Mile is a construction mess... The pedes- nial generation started growing up and retaining some of the old-growth trees trian traffic is way down and vehicular demanding a new urban lifestyle based “establishes this kind of grand scale for the traffic at least on the south side is down not on the car, but on public transport and landscaping,” he says. to one lane and careful the backhoe does 60 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 61 not smack your windshield while you’re make these alterations. It also gave them the heading northeast.” option of purchasing store ‘blade signs’ that Getting the project from design to stick out from under a building’s awnings. completion was admittedly a learning These incentives certainly helped, says process for both designers and contractors, Hornik of Jae’s Jewelers, but it didn’t solve Obviously, with any says Clinton of Cooper-Robertson. everything. She feels fortunate that her “It’s a pretty innovative paving system shop didn’t lose as much business as some. type of construction with the beautiful natural stone – a differ- “We have the longevity, we have the ent system on Giralda than on the Mile client base for new businesses,” she says. there’s going to be – so there was a kind of learning curve But as retail lead for the BID’s Board of delays, there’s going for how that should be solved,” he said, Directors, she has been vocal that restau- explaining that the curb-less sidewalks rants will gain the most from Streetscape, to be hiccups.... also required a less conventional, continu- since the expanded sidewalk can be used ous drainage system to make the walkways for outdoor dining. That extra space might more expansive and easier for stepping. also work for a few retail shops that hope Hornik of Jae’s Jewelers “A lot of that in the early months slowed to set up sidewalk sales, but certainly not everybody down. Construction went very for the area’s high-end merchandise like slowly and people got very anxious.” fine jewelry and wedding gowns. Even installing the heavy stone Regardless, Hornik says just about benches and chairs – all carefully crafted all downtown business owners recognized and white tiles along Miracle Mile were in Spain – was a tedious process. “It took the need for upgrades. “Coral Gables is meant to reflect Florida’s sunny skies, while a while to figure out how to make the going through a badly needed renova- on Giralda those same colors intermingle foundation for them,” Clinton said. tion, reviving for the next generation,” with hues of charcoal, brown, and black, DURING AFTER she said, adding that many of stores that offering a modern Mediterranean feel. GIRALDA AVENUE TRANSFORMING TO A PEDESTRIAN MALL OUTDOOR DINING IS NOW A BIG HIT ON GIRALDA AVENUE MAINTAINING MOMENTUM went out of business during construction “It has that European, Italian plaza were heading in that direction before the feel, which is very Coral Gables, with our To ease tensions, the city offered rent abate- project started. unique touch because we’re still modern,” ment to retailers housed in its own buildings, “This was the straw that broke says city Public Affairs Manager Maria parking vouchers to shops and restaurants, the camel’s back,” she said, noting that Higgins Fallon. and subsidized garage parking of $1 an flexibility has been key for everyone else. And now, with the project complete, hour. The city also put up $5 valet parking “Obviously, with any type of construction the crowds are doing what lead architect stands throughout the downtown, making there’s going to be delays, there’s going Clinton envisioned: “spilling out onto the it possible to drop the car on one street and to be hiccups. Everybody voices their sidewalks” of stores and restaurants, in- pick it up on another. This is in addition to concerns and their frustrations, but we try cluding the temporarily-depressed Tarpon the downtown trolley and the Freebee which to stay positive because it’s something that Bend Raw Bar & Grill. And despite the operates like an Uber or a Lyft within the we wanted. We did want this renovation. painful delays, on one item city officials are downtown area, free of charge. We did want to attract more people to confident: Streetscape’s official April 14th City officials also tried to help the Miracle Mile.” inauguration. merchants with marketing. In late 2016, She says she’s already starting to see “Certainly, there’s a big sense of they hired business development specialist that happen; in recent months, her book- accomplishment – because we worked so Francesca Valdes to prepare merchants for keepers have noted a sudden uptick in new long as an organization to achieve this and the grand Streetscape opening they were customers. “They’re people who were just seeing the reality of it come to life,” says expecting the following August. Valdes got walking by and saw something that they Amador, remembering how even last year to work coordinating a series of marketing liked, who had never set foot in the store folks who wanted outdoor weekend dining workshops on everything from social me- before, and that’s very encouraging for the would have to take a table in a parking dia to visual merchandising for storefronts. future,” she says. lane. “The meters were still there, the “We brought in a top consultant from bushes were still there, the sidewalk was the field. We held a free seminar forretail - THE CITY BEAUTIFUL, ONCE AGAIN very small – it was a street.” ers on small things you can do to really Indeed, the efforts are already having amp up your storefront,” she explains. Today, Miracle Mile’s new drainage system their desired effect, says Iglesias, who notes “That could be as simple as changing the is designed for a 100-year return period a sudden increase in downtown shoppers lighting, or a change in height in the riser with overflows into major trench systems and diners. FRANCESCA VALDES: NEW MARKETING FOR MERCHANTS in your window.” on Lejeune, Ponce de Leon, and Galiano. “I’ve lived in the Gables for a long During seminars, the city invited Replanting the trees ensured their roots time, and in the old days, the Mile was AFTER THE GRAND STREETSCAPE OPENING attendees to apply for $500 in small business wouldn’t pull up the new sidewalk, or, worse dead after hours,” he says. “People are development grants to help merchants yet, fall over during a storm. The gray-blue coming back now.”

62 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 63 Kaplan Goes HOLLYWOOD

ooks & Books store owner Mitchell Kaplan was attending a conference in New York City when a well-known editor Bhanded him a manuscript and asked, “How are we going to make this into a bestseller?” Kaplan read the novel, loved it, and saw potential for a great movie. He asked his sister, a TV pro- ducer, for help. She recommended a film-producer friend, Paula owner of the Mazur, who read the book and loved it too. Soon, the duo secured independent the option to make the World War II story into a film. A Hol- Books & Books lywood studio quickly signed up, with big name talent to boot. stores (which Kaplan was thrilled, figuring the movie business must be easier host more than than he’d ever imagined. Then, like so many Hollywood deals, it 500 writers yearly) suddenly fell apart. and as co-founder of Now, nearly 10 years later, Kaplan and Mazur are set to debut the Miami Book Fair the finished film this April in London, based on the now best-sell- International (now the ing novel they optioned, “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel country’s largest literary Pie Society.” It’s a widely anticipated premiere in the United King- festival). But film requires dom, backed by Europe’s Studio Canal, directed by Mike Newell far more costly, complex of “Four Weddings and a Funeral” fame, and starring Lily James, and timely collaboration, known for her roles in “Downton Abbey” and “Darkest Hour.” the booklover has learned. For Kaplan, a fervent movie fan as well as a lifelong lover of “The biggest challenge in film is everything,” Kaplan books, the London debut is a sign of how far he has come in the said with a laugh during a chat at his flagship Coral Gables store. filmmaking business. The movie is actually the second theatri- “You can have someone putting up the money, but you’re not cal release for he and Mazur, following the November debut of finding the right director or the right actors. Or you find them, “The Man Who Invented Christmas.” That film, based on a book and something is taking too long, so you lose them because of MITCH KAPLAN, THE CORAL GABLES ENTREPRENEUR by South Florida’s Les Standiford about how author Charles their window of opportunity. Anything collaborative like that is Dickens wrote “A Christmas Carol,” featured actor Christopher challenging. Just look at sports teams or our government.” WHO TURNED BOOKS & BOOKS INTO A COMMUNITY Plummer (best known as the father in “The Sound of Music”) as Kaplan seems to take the obstacles in stride. Modest with INSTITUTION, HAS NOW GONE FROM THE SMALL PRINT Ebenezer Scrooge. The movie met critical success, earning an 80 the passion of an eternal college student, he emphasizes the joy percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes from both critics and viewers. of working with creative people on projects they all believe in. TO THE BIG SCREEN In all, the partners have more than a dozen books now under He’s quick to honor his teammates, calling Mazur “brilliant” and option that they aim to turn into movies or TV series. Guernsey co-producer Graham Broadbent “the sweetest guy.” For Kaplan, film offers yet another powerful channel to “At this point, I really believe that the journey is more import- By Doreen Hemlock connect audiences with writers. For decades, the South Florida ant usually than anything else. I do things because I enjoy them, native has been building communities with authors, both as the so I surround myself with people I really like, who share the same

64 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photograph by Jon Braeley 65 MOVIE PROJECTS BY THE MAZUR/KAPLAN COMPANY

THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS by Les Standiford The six fever-pitched weeks in which Charles Dickens wrote and self-published “A Christmas Carol.” Susan Coyne wrote the adap- tation, Dan Stevens and Christopher Plummer star, Bharat Nalluri directs. Partner is Bleeker Street Films. Released November 2017.

THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows The unexpected bond that journalist Juliet Ashton forms with the residents of Guernsey after World War II. Don Roos and Tom Bezucha wrote the adaptation, Lily James and Michiel Huisman star, Mike Newell directs. Partner is Studio Canal. To premiere in April 2018 in London.

THE SILENT WIFE by A.S.A. Harrison A psychological thriller that tracks a marriage headed for ca- tastrophe. Billy Ray wrote the adaptation, Nicole Kidman will star.

CROOKED LETTER by Tom Franklin Two estranged childhood friends who reunite years later when a girl disappears, as one is accused of the crime and the other investigates it. George Tillman will direct.

OTHER BOOKS OPTIONED: vision,” he says. “I know it takes a village to make things happen.” THE VIRTUE OF PATIENCE As book-to-film producers, The Mazur/Kaplan Company ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES handles the gamut of what it takes to make things happen. But by Jennifer Niven The partners’ first theatrical release took eight years to complete. it partners with others on tasks that can run from finding funds Les Standiford, the South Florida author of 23 books who leads Offers a young-adult love story about a girl who learns to live to selecting talent and securing distribution. Guernsey co-pro- the creative writing program at Florida International Universi- from a boy who intends to die. ducer Broadbent, for example, came with a string of credits that ty, waited patiently for the film version of his novel, “The Man MAJOR PETTIGREW’S LAST STAND included the Exotic Marigold Hotel series and “Three Billboards Who Invented Christmas,” which portrays how Charles Dickens by Helen Simonson Outside Ebbing, ,” which just won Oscars for best lead- quickly wrote and self-published “A Christmas Carol” to keep his Aabout the unlikely friendship between a retired and widowed ing actress and best supporting actor. family from bankruptcy. The project passed through various hands British army major and the Pakastani woman who runs their rural As for Mazur, she was intrigued when Kaplan approached in Hollywood, Canada and English TV before becoming an village’s convenience store. her and said, “I read books that I think might make good movies.” independent production shot in Ireland. “I never thought there’d COUNTING BY 7’S She’d been producing films mainly from plays and books, work- be a movie about a book about a guy writing a book anyway,” by Holly Goldberg Sloan ing independently, without steady partners. She figured Guernsey Standiford joked. A12-year-old genius coping with the loss of her adoptive parents was a one-off project, but she and Kaplan bonded. She likes his Kaplan’s budding success in film doesn’t surprise Standiford. and the community of people that rise to become her surrogate literary taste, how fast he learns, and above all, his ethics in what He recalls meeting Mitchell almost 40 years ago when Kaplan family. can be a “back-stabbing” industry. “He never pretends to know was opening Books & Books and already had grand plans for a what he doesn’t know, which I’m not used to in this business,” book fair “that was going to close down all central Miami,” he THE PRINCE OF LOS COCUYOS by Richard Blanco said Mazur, chuckling. says. “Five hundred authors were going to come, and there would The Mazur/Kaplan Company has developed a blueprint for be a street fair and cooking demonstrations and on and on. And A poet’s life growing up in Miami’s Cuban immigrant community. choosing books to option among thousands they peruse, includ- this was 1981, mind you. I saw a lot of guys driving fast-boats ing many Kaplan gets months or even years before publication. with their shirts open and their navels showing. I didn’t see a lot The four-member team looks for a distinctive story that “we of people reading in Miami, and all I could think was, ‘Mitchell, I would want to spend the years that it takes to get it made,” says hope you know what you are getting into.’” This page: Dan Stevens stars as Charles Dickens and Christopher Plummer stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in di- Kaplan. Just as importantly, they determine “if there’s a path to Standiford left town and returned in 1985 to find the book- rector Bharat Nalluri’s The Man Who Invented Christmas, get it made – if we can really find the necessary collaboration and store flourishing and the book fair a reality. “That told me that a Bleeker Street release. resources to bring it to the screen,” he says. “It’s what I’ve done when Mitchell Kaplan decides that something is worth doing, (credit: Kerry Brown / Bleeker Street) in buying for the store, where it doesn’t quite matter what it is, as then he’s going to make it happen. He has that kind of drive and long as it’s elevated, not snobby, and it hits its mark in what it’s possesses a charisma that makes other people buy into his vision.” Opposite page: Mitch Kaplan and Paula Mazur on the film set trying to do.” “The Man Who Invented Christmas” showed in some 800 67 Clockwise from top left: Mitch Kaplan in front of the movie poster; a scene from the movie, The Man Who Invented Christmas; the flagship Books & Books is located at 265 Aragon Avenue; inside the bookstore, which has grown considerably since it opened in 1982.

cinemas at its peak and could become a holiday staple on TV. when opening a store in the Cayman Islands “how to delegate Standiford hopes the movie will encourage producers to turn and allow people to run things in a style of their own, with me more of his books into films and present his stories to wider au- giving them direction.” When things get hectic, he tries to slow diences. But there is a caveat: Standiford wants good films made, them down and dissect the problems. To stay sharp, he keeps up like Mazur/Kaplan’s. An earlier movie of his book “Spill” made by with news, exercises to music, and watches what he eats: “I’ve a different group left him embarrassed. That action film never got been a vegetarian, but I eat fish. I call myself a stone crab-atarian. the big budget it needed, so “watching Spill is sort of like staring I could not live without stone crabs.” To relax, he often types out into the sun for 103 minutes. That’s how bad it is,” Standiford poems he likes on one of the manual typewriters he collects. He said. In contrast, he proudly touts the Christmas film as a calling also keeps scores of poems on his cellphone, including William card for folks who’ve never read his books. Carlos Williams’ Winter Trees: “All the complicated details of the Of course, some of Mazur/Kaplan’s projects may never reach attiring and the disattiring are completed! …the wise trees stand the big screen. On his last trip to California, Kaplan met with sleeping in the cold,” he reads aloud. Netflix, Hulu and Apple streaming services to explore film and TV Kaplan says he doesn’t measure success in his ventures only ventures. He’d earlier worried about movies debuting online without in dollars. He finds value in building communities, especially cinema releases but has since reconsidered. Netflix recently pre- where writers and audiences connect. And though he’ll do the miered a film it financed called “Bright” and racked up 11 million business tasks required, like pushing publishers for discounts and viewers within days. Had that movie been in theaters, its numbers sticking to budgets, “I’m not a business person per se,” he says. would likely have made it the highest-grossing release that weekend. “I grew up thinking that being an artist and being an author was “The world is changing,” says Kaplan. “So, we are adapting.” the highest calling you could have. When I realized that I wasn’t Kaplan’s push into film – on top of work for some half-doz- going to be a writer, maybe I transferred that creative edge into en book stores, several cafes and the annual book fair – might the producer in me – being a producer of spaces, events, films, stress out others. But the 63-year-old says he learned long ago book stores and book festivals.”

68 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photography by Jon Braeley Home & Garden

GET INTO THE KITCHEN

The Coral Gables Community hat happens when you bring hundreds of peo- From there, participants followed a self-directed itinerary manager of Snaidero Kitchens and Design. This year, Snaid- Foundation showcases some of ple to a dozen knockout kitchens and kitchen that included eight private kitchens and three design- ero, a tour sponsor since the beginning, hosted a cooking Wshowrooms? Lots of good eating, drinking and er-kitchen stores. demo with Chef José Ramirez-Ruiz. Ramirez-Ruiz showed the city’s hottest kitchens and appliance envy! The Coral Gables Community Foun- At some of the stops, participants were given cooking his white-wine-sipping students how to make his signature tastemakers dation’s 9th Annual Tour of Kitchens sold a record 750 lessons and demonstrations, all in the name of good food; zucchini squash blossoms stuffed with rock shrimp. tickets this year to culinary voyeurs anxious to peek inside proceeds from the event (tickets were $60 each) went to- Completed samples – topped with a passion fruit some of Coral Gables toniest private kitchens. ward scholarships at Coral Gables High School’s culinary sauce and plated with a nest of cucumber salad – made it By Robin Shear The day-long event kicked off on a Saturday morn- academy (see sidebar, page 74). clear why Ramirez-Ruiz made headlines (and earned a Photos by Ella Aire ing in February with mimosas and breakfast snacks in the The Foundation’s first Tour of Kitchens, back in 2009, Michelin star) at his former tasting-menu restaurant showroom of presenting sponsor, Infiniti of Coral Gables. had about 150 people, recalls Allison Ortiz, showroom Semilla, located in Brooklyn, New York.

70 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 71 “The Coral Gables Foundation is one of the 450 Valencia Avenue most critical things Coral Gables provides. I’m so glad I could contribute and be a part of 1 its Tour of Kitchens,” said Venny Torre, who is in his third year as chair of the event.

Torre and his wife, Coco, hosted the back patio. one of the stops on the tour in While his role in the kitchen their new three-story townhouse leans more toward foraging for located at 450 Valencia Avenue, his favorite treats in the Miele part of a group of residences side-by-side fridge-freezer, his near downtown Coral Gables wife is the family culinary wizard, developed by Torre’s company. making good use of her induc- Guests wore hospital-blue booties tion cooktop, and convection and to protect the house’s stunning combi-steam ovens, all integrat- expanse of European oak flooring ed into the matte-white Stosa — a minimalist space brightened Cucine cabinetry. A gorgeous by natural light. “I like the clean gold-flecked gray quartz island airiness,” said Torre, of the large provides ample prep space. (Styl- open-plan kitchen that flows ing by Pure Project Home; food effortlessly between dining room by Coral Gables Senior High and informal seating overlooking culinary arts academy students.)

Top: Antique KitchenAid mixer adds a retro-look to the modern decor Right: European oak floor- ing enhances the kitchen’s grey-quartz island. Opposite: Coco (left) and Venny Torre, point out de- tails to a tour participant.

72 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photography by Carlos Domenech 73 2 644 Altara Avenue

CULINARY INSPIRATION

Looking confident in her black hospitality coat and red apron, 11th grader Amanda Mayendia serves up tasty morsels for the lineup of hungry guests The home of Sidney and Monique Lazard strolling through the home of Venny and Coco Torre for the 9th annual Tour of Kitchens. at 644 Altara Avenue is a landmark within “I’m learning little by little,” said Mayendia, the Italian Village of Coral Gables. who joined the Academy of Culinary Arts and Oper- ations at Coral Gables Senior High just a few weeks before the February event. Built in 1925 by three-time pres- Instructor Michael Flores-Interiano supervised idential candidate William Jen- Mayendia and two other members of the academy as they created and plated an attractive and deli- nings Bryan, the kitchen, which cious amuse-bouche of mini corn cakes topped with opens onto a fountain-lined cheese, mushroom ragout, and a lime crème fraiche. courtyard, practically screams “I love it. It feels great to be back,” said Chef mangia! The Italian farmhouse Flores Interiano, himself a 2008 graduate of Gables vibe here is strong – from embel- High. He went on to obtain culinary degrees from lished hand-carved woodwork Johnson & Wales University and FIU; in addition to and stone-topped island to the his work with Gables High, he also teaches at the ceiling coffer with hanging copper Biltmore Culinary Academy. pans and a copper sink with oil- Above: A bronze sea Revenue from the Tour of Kitchens helps sup- rubbed faucets and spout. serpent watches over port the culinary arts program at Gables High, says But the appliances – a Bosch the tranquil courtyard Mary Snow, executive director of the Coral Gables dishwasher with Fisher & Paykel Opposite: Rustic Community Foundation. farmhouse furniture dishwasher drawers, side-by-side combines with modern Support has included scholarships for students Sub-Zeros, and Wolf cook- appliances to attend Miami-Dade College’s Culinary Institute top, stacking double ovens and and Johnson & Wales University, industrial kitchen warming drawer – are anything equipment for the classroom, plants for a cam- but rustic. (Styling by Victoria’s pus vegetable garden, and trips to state cooking Armoire; food by Ruth’s Chris competitions. Steak House.)

74 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Photo by: Katherine Dagand 75 524 Hardee Road

3 Stuart and Bobbi Rosenberg spent over a year transforming their 1926 home at 524 Hardee Road, in the French Country Vil- lage of Coral Gables.

“We even raised the ceiling,” said Stuart. Still, Bobbi wasn’t sold on the kitchen, “but my husband promised he would make it so I could cook.” Out went the dark mahogany cabinets; in came the solid white counter, all-white cab- inets, two under-counter Kitche- nAid ovens; a Miele refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, and induction cooktop; a Zephyr exhaust hood; and a beautiful mosaic backsplash to tie the classic French styling all together. Bobbi now has plenty of room to bake and cook for her large family. And knowing the Tour of Kitchens would aid budding chefs made her happy to participate. “It’s a great cause,” she said. (Styling by Plume; food by House: A Town Kitchen & Bar.)

Top: The kitchen, with mosaic backsplash and Zephyr exhaust hood Left: Stuart and Bobbi Rosenberg enjoying the fruits of their hard work

76 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Kitchen photo by Katherine Dagand The French 3701 Toledo Street Antique treasures from Morocco, 4 Istanbul, and Spain bring the world Mediterranean to 3701 Toledo Street, the 1925 home of Gary Cohn and Catalina Lives in Pérez, designed by H. George Fink, George Merrick’s cousin. Coral Gables

They made the kitchen “com- pletely and absolutely” the heart of the home, said Pérez. “We’re always entertaining.” The space’s showstopper is a black and white encaustic tile flooring that Pérez, principal of Le Provençal Restaurant was established the graphic design studio Ink- in 1988 with the simple goal of bringing the berries, fine-tuned with her eagle eye. For the custom cabinets, flavors of the French Mediterranean coast to which are inset with quatrefoil Coral Gables. brass screens, she looked through almost enough shades of navy to Now, three decades later, Le Provençal has make a movie sequel, but it paid become a multi-generational restaurant and off. “I just love that color,” she landmark in the City Beautiful. purrs. “It’s dark but happy at Following a significant and striking redesign the same time – and it’s always elegant.” Offsetting all the drama in 2018, Le Provencal continues to maintain is a simple marble countertop its tradition while simultaneously drawing a and matching backsplash in white. The look is complete with new generation of diners. a stainless steel Bertazzoni range Le Provençal aims to stay true to its and matching exhaust hood, and a KitchenAid French door refriger- Mediterranean culinary roots and strive to ator/freezer. (Styling by Polished bring gastronomic innovation to Miracle Mile with the use of local and sustainable ingredients.

Top: The kitchen, with pattern Lunch: Tues-Sat 12:00 – 3:30p tile flooring and KitchenAid French door fridge and freezer Dinner: Tues-Thu 6:00–10:00p Left: Gary Cohn and Catalina Dinner: Fri-Sat 6:00-11:00p Pérez with daughter Mia Cohen Brunch: Sunday 12:00-3:30p Dinner: Sunday 6:00-9:00p

266 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables 33134 +1 (305) 448-8984 www.leprovencalrestaurant.com 78 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Kitchen photo by: Catalina Pérez Real Estate Inside Cocoplum 7185 E. LARGO DRIVE What $2.5 Million Will Buy in Coral Gables Listing Price

Coral Gables has some of the most valuable real estate in To see what $2.5 million would buy today, we asked four real South Florida, with a median price per square foot ($423) that estate agents to submit one of their homes for sale in that price $2.42M is almost twice that of the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area. Aver- range – give or take a few hundred thousand dollars. Here is age prices over the last five years have risen 43 percent. what they came up with, in different Gables locations. Historic Gables 647 N. GREENWAY DRIVE Listing Price $2.69M

5 bed/4.5 bath; 4,790 sq. ft.; 20,000 sq. ft. lot Hollub-built home in private, guard-gated Cocoplum. Pool, master suite with sitting room and walk-in closets, family room with custom built bar, community amenities include clubhouse, tennis, volleyball, basketball, pool.

5 bed/3.5 bath; 4,562 sq. ft. Landmark 1938 Mediterranean/Art Deco home designed by Keihnel & Elliot, renovated in 2015. Guest cottage with 1 bed/1 bath; 2-car A/C garage; pool; walkable to downtown; across from Granada Golf Course.

Listing Agent: Toni Schrager (Brown Harris), 305.338.9000 Listing Agent: Audrey Ross (Compass Realty), 305.206.4003 Courtesy: Brown Harris

80 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 81 South Gables Modern Plantation 6511 MAYNADA ST. 5545 RIVIERA DRIVE Listing Price Listing Price $2.75M $2.65M

5 bed/5 bath; 4,985 sq. ft. 4 bed/4.5 bath; 4,677 sq. ft.; 12,000 sq. ft. lot New home walkable to University of Miami, Sunset Elemen- Plantation-style two-story surrounded by lush gardens and tary and Shoppes at Sunset. Master suite with two balconies; mature live oaks. Keystone fireplace; white oak floors; master saltwater pool; wood and stone floors throughout; suite with 2 walk-in closets; three upstairs bedrooms with pri- Wolf appliances; 2-car garage. vate baths; heated pool w waterfall.

Listing Agent: Maria Mejia (Coldwell Banker), 305.305.2109 Listing Agent: Judy Zeder (EWM), 305.613.5550 Courtesy: Miami Real Estate Photographers

82 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 83 Left to right: Zucca is located in the St. Michel on Ponce. Dining Fiori di Zucca Ripieni Di Mozzarella Chef Simone Mua working his magic Ossobuco con Risotto Alla Milanese Below: Cocktail bar in the dining room

ITALIAN CHIC Zucca restaurant, with its northern Italian focus, pulls off the delicate balance between simple fare and sophistication

By Andrew Gayle

here is something in the a different ethnic tradition. modern Italian sensibility – a The cuisine of Zucca is northern Tsubtlety of design, an under- Italian. More specifically it comes from statement of elegance – that elevates the Lombardy region around Milan, the simple to the sublime. Whatever where Chef Simone Mua was raised that magic is, it is in full force at Zuc- and where he learned to cook from ca, which is celebrating its one-year his family at an early age. The result anniversary in the hallowed haunts of is authentic, artisanal food from a Restaurant St. Michel’s old digs on region of Italy that specializes in slow Ponce de Leon and Alcazar. braising and stewing, and where rice For those of you who remem- and polenta are the dominant starches ber the Restaurant St. Michel, it was rather than pasta. “I cook simple food” an icon of Coral Gables romantic he says. “I grew up with food. Both of dining. It closed five years ago, and its my parents were excellent cooks and I replacements have fallen short – until learned from them.” now. Zucca brings back to the brick- This is immediately evident in and-vine Hotel St. Michel a cuisine the signature dishes on the menu, worthy of its predecessors, albeit from including a slow-cooked Ossobuco con

84 Photography courtesy of Zucca The other elements of the cuisine package are of equal quality, from the bread with olive paste to the dessert menu (don’t miss the ricotta cheesecake, left). But of nearly equal importance is the décor of Zucca. Deep green, chocolate brown and silver grey are the dominant three colors – moss green columns and forest green velvet curtains that balance the smoky brown walls and a silver-grey leather banquet that runs the length of the long wall fronting Ponce. The seating wraps around a large open bar in the center of the room, which an- glows from banked lighting above and Ri- tipasti copper colored lamps hanging down. Each sotto dishes, in- table of black stained wood is lit by a baby MONDAY - FRIDAY Alla Milanese cluding a terrific spot from above which allows you to read a – oxtail with saffron grilled “Portuguese” octopus held-out menu while softening to darkness risotto. A tad pricey, but a huge portion which might well win over diners not for the diners. that is delightfully flavorful as it falls off used to eating such fare. It was just right, The overall effect, like the food, is a the bone. We also tried a risotto with tasty but not rubbery, served with string fusion of simple elements that manages mixed greens, unusual but refreshingly beans, potatoes, olives, cherry tomatoes to be worldly, refined, and cultivated light and creamy. If you want pasta, of course Chef Mua – who previously served as chef at Miami Beach’s famed Casa Tua – has plenty to I grew up with food. Both of my parents were offer, all well priced. Our waitress recom- excellent cooks and I learned from them mended the pasta with fillet mignon and sun-dried tomatoes, which was perfectly Chef Simone Mua prepared al dente. It was like a family meal in Milan, a comfort country dish. and a parsley pesto sauce. So Mediterra- without being pretentious. It has attitude, Equally pleasing was a tagliatelle al funghi nean: rustic elements of top quality, the but quiet attitude, with just the right misti – homemade pasta sautéed with wild mixture creating a savory undertone. An amount of noise from diners’ chatter – mushrooms. Rich and delicious, and not even greater burst to the palate came from some of it in Italian, always a good sign. suffering from too much salt, the crutch of the Vitello Tonnato, thinly sliced veal ten- Sitting in Zucca makes you feel like chefs less accomplished than Mau. derloin served over a tuna reduction with you are in modern Milan, a city known Of course, no meal should go without capers that gave it a nice, salty punch. for its excellence in modern design. Like Zucca’s ultimate signature dish, from Not to be underestimated is Zucca’s the cuisine of Chef Mau, it is elementa- which the restaurant derives its name: The wine selection, from their glass-enclosed ry yet sophisticated. Zucca promises to Fiori di Zucca Ripieni Di Mozzarella – 1,000-plus bottle wine cellar. Somalier Di- age well, and to become as iconic as the fried zucchini flowers stuffed with mozza- ego Rech is superbly knowledgeable about famed St. Michel itself. rella cheese. The chef does a variation with his wines, ready with a recommendation ricotta cheese and lemon zest, which is a and even an anecdote about the vineyard. ZUCCA is located at 162 Alcazar Ave- little lighter. We preferred the first varia- We stayed with Italian wines, enjoying nue, Coral Gables. For reservations, call tion, which included anchovies: crunchy first a delightful 2013 Amarone della Val- 786.580.3731 and creamy all at once, filled with flavor. policella Chianti and then falling in love Also not be missed are some of the with a rich 2011 Guilia Negri Barolo.

86 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Dining Guide April TOP 2018 RESTAURANTS IN CORAL GABLES

oral Gables is a moveable feast, a veritable mecca of fine dining. It has late at night, when it’s not unusual go to a restaurant at 10 pm and find the highest density of quality restaurants for any city in South Flor- the place packed, even with children. Restaurants in Coral Gables do well, Cida – close to 100 good dining establishments. The restaurants do cluster and in many cases are world-class. But the culinary scene is also changing. near the main street of Miracle Mile, but are also spread throughout the Where once the top-flight, traditional dining spots catered to lawyers, Gables. This is not the sort of town where one wanders about in shopping bankers, businessmen and diplomats, there is a new crop of edgier places, malls, but nonetheless there are some hidden gems in the larger malls and with young chefs and new tastes, and more millennials eating out. even out-of-the way strip malls. What follows is our list of the tried and true, and the innovative and Dining hours in the Gables stretch from the early evening – when it is new. We dine at all locations anonymously, and we list only the places common to see people dining at restaurants close to where they work – until where we love to eat.

$ Under $25 A typical French bistro with wonderful onion soup, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse fresh bread, and a superb paté. Everything on the $$ $25-$40 Fantastic aged steaks, a seafood tower that won’t quit, menu is fresh, French, and all you would expect from and a wine cellar that appears to have no end of its $$$ $35-$75 Pascal. Lots of little French touches. depth. A place for special celebrations. $$$$ $70-$100+ Shops at Merrick Park // 786.536.9388 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd. //305.569.7995 $$-$$$ French $$$ Steak & Seafood Approximate prices per person for appetizer and entrée, without tax, tip or drinks. Bricktop’s Fratellino Massive bar, lots of booths and an indoor/outdoor area Small, family run, with a fanatically loyal fan base, Aromas del Peru with a fire pit all add to the traditional chop house and brilliant Italian comfort food. The long narrow set up seafood Americana feel of Bricktop’s. The place to go The shrine for ceviche, with a wide range of choices with tile floors, wooden chairs and tablecloths makes for Lobster bisque, grilled grouper or blackened rib it feel like New York’s Little Italy. Their calamari, in – 18 ceviches at last count – for great prices. Haute eye. Good bites for happy hour (4 to 7 pm). Peruvian appetizers and good fish dishes, right up any variation, is superb, and fettuccine with prosciut- 2418 Ponce de Leon Blvd. // 305.443.9992 to, mushrooms and green peas? To die for. to the whole fried snapper. And don’t miss the pisco $$ American sour soup. Comfortable leather seats, too. 264 Miracle Mile//786.452.0068 $$$ Italian 1930 Ponce de León Blvd. // 305.476.5886 Caffe Vialetto $$ Peruvian Two brothers, managing to Bellmónt keep sibling rivalry at bay, have concocted a menu of Modern décor meets traditional Spanish dishes. Their upscale Latin food that is house specialty is the roast suckling pig. If you want consistently changing and the whole pig ($230 for 4) you need to order 4 hours interesting. Yuca, mofongo in advance. If it’s just you ($49) you’ll need to wait (garlic flavored mashed just 50 minutes. As for the rest: authentic Spanish plantains), and other Carib- cuisine, with great seafood dishes, fantastic paella. bean and Latin flavors make 339 Miracle Mile // 786.502.4684 for a delightful evening $$$ Spanish and an out of the ordinary experience. Reservations Grilled Caffe Abbracci required, always full. A Gables icon, Nino Pernetti’s Italian restaurant is 4019 LeJeune Rd. Octopus at both a power lunch favorite for the business elite and $$$ Cuban/Latin a cozy evening gathering place for families and cou- Zucca ples. Closely shepherded by the welcoming Pernetti, Christy’s Abbracci is quiet, elegant and flavorful. The food is Touted as Coral Gables so consistently good that Pernetti had to publish his oldest steakhouse, Christy’s was long the power lunch Frenchie’s Diner own cookbook. go to – until it stopped serving lunch except on Fri- It looks like an all-American diner (which it once 318 Aragon Ave. // 305.441.0700 days. Still, its aged steaks are consistently excellent, as was) but this pure French cooking. Frenchie himself $$$ Italian are the seafood entrees. And their classic Caesar salad is usually there. Some items on the menu can get is still the best in town. pricey (duck confit, $32) but the onion soup ($9) Bulla Gastro 3101 Ponce de Leon Blvd. // 305.446.1400 and escargots ($11) are great values, and the cro- As valued for its cocktails as for its tapas, Bulla’s is $$$ Steakhouse also something Coral Gables needs – an informal, quet-monsieur ($12) for lunch is a meal unto itself. smart neighborhood hangout with a young, boister- Eating House 2618 Galiano St. // 305.442.4554 $$ French ous vibe. Great ‘small plates’ and refreshing sangria. Groovy place with inventive ever-changing menu, Yes, it is a national chain, but it still feels local. with dishes like nutmeg risotto, pumpkin tiradito, Graziano’s 2500 Ponce de Leon Blvd. //305.441.0107 and fried brussel sprouts. Dynamite free-range fried This large, bustling Gables mainstay is true Argen- $$ Spanish chicken. Simple artsy décor but superb food, excellent tine. A deep selection of Argentina wines (which line presentation, great value. every wall) to go with churrasco meats slowly roasted Brasserie Central 804 Ponce de Leon Blvd. //305.448.6524 over a quebracho wood fire, old school style. They Secretly owned by Pascal of Ponce fame, the restau- $$ Innovative American rant is half inside, half in the courtyard of the Shops. have seafood and pasta, empanadas and salads, but

88 thecoralgablesmagazine.com Dining Guide come here for the meat, the selection of which will signature Pub Burger, music on weekends. walk seating, perfect pre-theater location. course meals – or his $155 chef ’s tasting menu – is 317 Miracle Mile //305.446.2690 Talavera Cocina Mexicana stun even hardcore carnivores. 253 Miracle Mile // 305.445.3777 266 Miracle Mile //305.448.8984 impeccable in taste and appearance. $$ Thai High ceilings and ceramics make this a pleasant place 394 Giralda // 305.774.3599 $ Pub Food $$$ French Mediterranean 1200 Anastasia Ave. (at the Biltmore Hotel) to dine, but it’s the authentic fare that shines. The $$$ Argentine 305.913.3200 $$$$ French Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse place for Mexicans home sick for cooking that’s not La Dorada Mariposa Tex-Mex. The chicken mole poblano is a winner at La Taberna Giralda Pascal’s On Ponce There is a reason that the tables at Ruth’s are typically Regarded by many to be the finest restaurant devoted Mariposa floats like a butterfly in a far-off corner full, even on week nights. This is where the best $20, and their huarache grill – masa flat breads that Routinely rated among the top tapas places in South to seafood in the Gables, La Dorada is tradition- overlooking the garden courtyard of the Park. The Elegant, quaint and delicious, Pascal’s is the home steaks are sent and where cholesterol is sent to the are really haute tacos – are great at $17. Florida, La Taberna brings the added twist of a chef al Spanish cooking with a deep-sea focus (and a food is light fare, as one might expect at a Neiman and culinary canvas of owner-chef Pascal Oudin, who devil for the sake of extraordinary taste. Lots of wood 2299 Ponce de Leon Blvd. // 305.444.2955 from Galicia, who puts his own regional spin the pleasant, ocean-deco décor). The house specialty is Marcus, with prices not so light. Salads, soups, brings authentic classic French cuisine to the heart of paneling, wonderful service, and huge wine selection $$ Mexican dishes. It’s a small place with a neighborhood vibe, baked whole fish crusted in sea salt, but don’t miss cocktails – a casual place to rest after having spent far the city. Meticulous in every detail. Oudin excels in complete the package. orange walls, string lights and live flamenco on the the traditional Mediterranean seafood stews or the more than you planned. seafood, soufflés and desserts. Try the leeks & hearts 2320 Salzedo St. //305.461.8360 Tarpon Bend weekends ($5 cover), so reservations are a must. shellfish prepared Galician style. Shops at Merrick Park //786.999.1018 of palm salad. $$$$ Steakhouse Tarpon Bend is full even on off days. Why? Great, 254 Giralda Avenue // 786.362.5677 177 Giralda // 305.446.2002 $$$ New American 2611 Ponce de Leon Blvd. // 305.444.2024 fresh fish at reasonable prices, like cedar plank salm- $$ Spanish $$$$ Spanish Seafood $$$ French Seasons 52 on with veggies for $25 or Asian tuna burger for $15. Matsuri Owner Wayne stays on top of quality and it shows. Ichimi La Palma Pincho Factory The restaurant for healthy eaters who enjoy quality as Just over the city line at Bird and Red roads, Matsuri well. The menu, changing four times a year with each Their daily special features three fish prepared any This off-Mile eatery has developed a cult following, Exquisite setting in a historic building with lovely is tucked humbly away in non-descript Red Bird One of the few places where you can get really season, is always full of inventive treatments for fresh way you like. Big happy hour scene, loyal followers. with diners content to wait and stand and stare, just courtyard dining. For years, La Palma was known Shopping Center. Yet it serves the world-class sushi, delicious food at a low price in the Gables, this veggies, soups and salads. Their fish and meat dishes 65 Miracle Mile // 305.444.3210 for the opportunity to eat Ichimi’s Japanese noodles for its incredible lunch buffet. At $13.95 it’s still a the finest anywhere in South Florida, and has an home-grown chain (based here) combines Brazilian are great values, and the flat bread menu is really a $$ Seafood and rice bowls. And the wait is worth it. Delicious, bargain, but now served only on Tuesdays. For other enormous menu of traditional Japanese food as well. shish kabob (served in rice bowels or as wraps) with nice touch. It’s a chain, but we forgive them. rich and faraway flavors in dishes you can’t find just weekdays, they have an executive lunch for $17.95. You will need reservations to snag a seat from its uniquely flavored hamburgers. A guilty pleasure for 321 Miracle Mile // 305.442.8552 Zucca anywhere, in a raw, cool space. And good to know they always have pasta fagioli, the devoted clientele. the well to do. $$ Healthy American A worthy heir to the hallowed grounds of the old 2330 Salzedo St. // 305.960.7016 Tuscan white bean soup. 5759 Bird Rd.// 305.663.1615 30 Giralda Ave.//305.446.5666 St. Michel restaurant, this one-year-old is a new $-$$ Japanese 116 Alhambra Circle //305.445.8777 $$-$$$ Japanese $ Latin Street Food Swine star in the raiment of Italian eateries in the Gables. $-$$$ Italian Like the name says, this place is about everything Distinctly northern Italian, with the home-taught John Martin’s Irish Pub Mesa Mar Red Koi Lounge recipes that chef Simone Mua learned in his native La Provencal porcine, from pork belly salad ($8) all the way to the Where else in the Gables can you find a relaxed Irish A relative newcomer, though the family has been If you like Thai food, then you will love Red Koi, suckling pig ($38). A kind of upscale-rural wood- Milan. Modern Italian design, with haute comfort pub with excellent pub comfort food like shepherd’s This Gables mainstay (30 years in the same location) in the restaurant business for many years. Some of which takes the Asian specialty up a notch. Their and-brick feel, and a tad pricey for country fare, but food and great service. pie, bangers & mash, and fish & chips? Answer: is under new ownership, so expect some innovations the best seafood in the Gables. Try the golden-fried Bangkok Shrimp is worth the visit alone, and man, do they know their way around a pig – along 162 Alcazar Ave. // 786.580.3731 nowhere. Which is why this long-established eatery to French standards duck l’orange and steak au poivre hogsnapper accompanied by lobster bisque with their cashew curry chicken will make you come with other Southern things, like fried chicken. $$$ Northern Italian and bar is so beloved by its clientele. Lots of America – like a Mediterranean grill with octopus, mussels, whole chunks of Florida lobster. Also serves deli- back. Hopefully they will be expanding their few 2415 Ponce de Leon // 786.360.6533 staples as well, from hot pastrami on rye to their scallops, black rice and saffron garlic aioli. New side- cious ceviches. outdoor tables soon. $$$ Southern 264 Giralda Ave. // 305.640.8448 $$$ Seafood Morton’s Coral Gables Morton’s in the Gables is not just another Morton’s. It’s setting in the Colonnades gives it a unique BEST elegance, with outdoor seating under the arches. Be Curious. Be Palmer Trinity. Dependable quality, prime-aged beef, and excellent salads. Good place to take that important client. Great happy hour with filet mignon sandwiches or views Seeking bold, innovative minds. short rib tacos for $8. IN MIAMI Prepare for university and beyond in a 8001 S.W. 184th Street, Miami, Florida 33157 2333 Ponce de Leon Blvd. // 305.442.1662 $$$ Steakhouse student-centered community where each 305.251.2230 | www.palmertrinity.org individual has room to grow, imagine, and Old Lisbon discover their own unlimited possibilities. It’s just outside the Gables in South Miami, but if you want great Portuguese food this is the place. The best codfish in town (11 variations), great mussels with a special sauce, and unique dishes like grilled Portuguese sardines and traditional caldo verde (po- tato and sausage) soup. Good service, and Portuguese wines at good prices. 5837 Sunset Drive// 305.662.7435 $$-$$$ Portuguese Ortanique on the Mile With its idyllic location, sophisticated style and award-winning cuisine, Sonesta A long-time favorite on Miracle Mile, Ortanique is Miami is where locals come to play – and stay. Offering spectacular views of beautiful Biscayne named for a tropical citrus fruit (their sister restau- Bay, Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge is recognized as one of Miami’s best dining experiences. rant is in Grand Cayman) and its Caribbean fine dining reflects chef Cindy Hutson’s commitment to Florida Residents enjoy a discount of up to 25% on our best available rates when you “cuisine of the sun.” A warm and welcoming place. book our Florida Resident Rate by August 31st, 2018 for stays April 1st, 2018 through 278 Miracle Mile // 305.446.7710 September 30th, 2018. Book by using promo code “FLACG”online or call 1-800-SONESTA. $$ Caribbean *Proof of Florida residency must be shown upon check-in. Receive up to 25% off our best available rates. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Palm d’Or The award-winning Palm d’Or is a dining icon in Coral Gables. At once traditional and innovative, the 2889 MCFARLANE ROAD | MIAMI, FL 33133 French cuisine created by Chef Gregory Pugin is a 1.800.SONESTA | SONESTA.COM/COCONUTGROVE work of art, literally. Each serving in his $115 six-

90 91 TS325Coralablesagaine4.854.85.indd 1 thecoralgablesmagazine.com22218 329 Voices Voices From the Boardroom By Dennis Nason From Main Street By Mark Trowbridge

ibraltar has been captured to openly recognize the newly again by the Spaniards, acquired wealth of athletes GIberia Bank. Despite the in our community, managing Where Has name, however, Iberia is from their money and helping them Why Not Us? . Branches of the buy homes. Following the he growing excitement nizing spirit and desire to win, Cajun bank have begun spring- new rules initiated by 9/11, IN THE NATIONAL CONTEST TO WIN AMAZON’S around the potential and our entrepreneurial vitality Gibraltar Gone? ing up in South Florida as the collapse of the financial NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTER - ALONG WITH IT’S Texpansion and location of Am- and youth. bank mergers and acquisitions system in 2008, and a jump JOBS - GREATER MIAMI CAN MAKE A INSIDE THE LATEST RESHUFFLING 50,000 azon’s HQ2 in South Florida is A company like Amazon become part of our landscape. in regulations for offshore OF BANKS IN THE GABLES COMPELLING ARGUMENT both palpable and exciting. Yes, is looking for a community Iberia Bank is pushing into deposits, Gibraltar, like many making the top 20 of any that meets their business needs South Florida, having first other competitors, suffered as open, national competition this as much as their desire to for- taken over Sabadell with its ex- a result. But with hard work, compelling, this transformative, ever alter the landscape of their pansive branch network, trade dedication and good manage- and this energizing is cause for new home base. finance, and solid client base. ment, Gibraltar rebuilt itself. celebration. Let’s stop the naysaying Its latest acquisition, Gibraltar, Until now, it was passed over as But the biggest prize and hand-wringing that doesn’t is another gem. a purchase opportunity, which is still to be won. And even do us any good. Let’s focus on What Iberia acquired in was unfortunate considering its though second-round site visits how together we will trans- Gibraltar is perhaps the best excellent value. Gibraltar’s style are already underway with the form this community together Miami-based bank in wealth of private banking, close coor- 20 finalists, there is still plenty through job creation, wage management and client service. dination between the wealth of time to improve our stock growth, solutions-based prob- It is spot on with the way com- management, real estate and and elevate our standing. To lem solving, and the best minds mercial and branch banking is lending giving it a leg up on its be candid, I am obsessed with working together every single going, as the thirst for deposits competitors. this project, constantly looking day to address our long-stand- fuels the growth. Furthermore, Yes, the acquisition of for small nuggets that could ing challenges. the staff runs quite deep at Gibraltar by Iberia Bank will give Miami the decisive edge. We will be buoyed by the Gibraltar, headed by Angel reshuffle the players, once it’s Sure, Jeff Bezos is a Miamian, corporate social-responsibility Medina, an experienced and approved by the regulators. but we need a ticket even more attitude and investment of highly regarded banker. They The current thinking is that golden to win! a game-changing corporate will keep most of the person- Gibraltar’s office will stay in I agree with much of the partner like Amazon that will nel and assuredly most of the the current location and will discussion that there are inher- no doubt inspire other local Gables-based Dennis Nason is a long-time clients. In addition to its head- become the private banking Mark Trowbridge is the president and CEO of ent challenges in any corporate companies to invest, as well. banker and executive placement consultant quarters in Coral Gables, and area of Iberia. The office will the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce bid as there are no perfect In the coming weeks and two more branches in Miami, be headed by Orlando Roche, matches in life or business. In months, the world will watch Gibraltar Bank also has a bank currently with Sabadell (now fact, the eternal optimist in me and the nation will shake its in New York, Naples, and in LaSalle) and formerly with believes it is the areas of chal- head in affirmation of Miami the millionaire’s resort Ocean Northern Trust. Angel Medina lenge in our plan that provide and our ability to shine the Reef. This coverage will make will be the leader of private The acquisition We have to believe the greatest opportunities for bright light of success on our Iberia Bank a formidable play- banking, and all will report to all of us. business community. We have er in South Florida, and with Paco Perez-Hickman, who will of Gibraltar we can win. We We can talk openly about to believe we can win. We have assets approaching $29 billion oversee the area for LaSalle transportation woes or work- to know we will. by Iberia Bank it has suddenly become one of Bank. Mario Treva, former have to know we force needs or even the fact And, when Jeff Bezos the largest banks in the area. head of Southeast Bank for that we are struggling with sea opens the envelope and says will reshuffle Gibraltar handled their South Florida, will be pres- will... level rise and climate change Miami, I hope the celebration business slightly different- ident of Iberia Bank. And it the players... on our peninsula. But, we also is as heralded and embraced as ly than other local banks. will be good for Coral Gables need to celebrate and elevate the arrival of David Beckham Founded by local Southeast since Gibraltar has not gone our most stellar attributes – our and MLS Soccer. It certainly Bankers about twenty years away and most of the branches diversity, our can-do attitude needs to be! ago, they started with a heavy and people will stay here and that is the ethos of an immi- To that end, I simply ask, emphasis on wealth manage- service the community. grant community, our galva- why not us? ment. They were the first bank

92 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 93 Voices Social Seen Your Money By John W. Harris Art & Culture Night at the Biltmore Parc The 2018 Tax Reform MG DEVELOPER LAUNCHES ITS QUARTERLY Bill: What You Need SERIES FOR ARTISTS he new tax act will affect and homeowners in high tax oral Gables-based MG our passion for Coral Ga- to Know, Part I how we make decisions states (New York, , Developer featured Ven- bles’ vibrant arts scene and Publisher Richard Roffman greets the guests Ton estate planning, buying a California, etc.). As Florida’s Cezuelan contemporary artists to provide a unique space for ON DECEMBER 22, 2017, PRESIDENT TRUMP home, health insurance, setting SALT is much more rea- Uaio Antor and Adriana Dorta residents to gather and be SIGNED INTO LAW THE FIRST SIGNIFICANT up a business, and even divorce sonable, Florida increasingly at the first of its Arts & Cul- inspired,” said Alirio Torrealba, REFORM OF THE U.S. TAX CODE SINCE RONALD agreements. In this series, we becomes a more compelling ture Night series. The quarterly CEO of MG Developer. “We REAGAN WAS IN OFFICE. HERE IS PART 1 OF will highlight major parts of the comparative domicile from a event focuses on artists who look forward to hosting these HOW IT WILL AFFECT YOUR FINANCES law to keep in mind, starting tax perspective, with a positive are part of the Biltmore Parc’s quarterly creative celebrations with individual income taxes. relative impact on Florida res- rotating art collection. at various locations throughout Personal tax rates and idential real estate values. The Guests enjoyed drinks and the Biltmore Square commu- income brackets will be mortgage interest deduction hors d’ouevres by Zucca, live nity as part of our mission to lowered, yet they will also for new home purchases has music, and a panel discussion support the cultural landscape expire (or sunset) at the end of also been lowered somewhat with the artists and collection of The City Beautiful.” 2025. Specifically, the top rate from $1 million to $750,000 curator Adriana Meneses. The Biltmore Parc, a 32-unit, falls from 39.6% to 37%, the post Dec. 15, 2017. panel was moderated by Coral boutique luxury condominium, 35% bracket stays the same, Also beginning in 2018 Gables Magazine Publisher is located at 718 Valencia Ave- while the 33% bracket falls the deduction for interest paid Richard Roffman. nue, and is the second midrise Antor, Meneses, Torrealba, Dorta and Roffman

to 32%, the 28% bracket to on a home equity line will no “We are excited to share in Biltmore Square. Photos: Magnate Photography 24%, the 25% bracket to 22%, longer be eligible for the home and the 15% bracket to 12%. mortgage interest deduction The lowest bracket remains at (with certain exceptions for 10%. The standard deduction the purchase of real estate has essentially doubled, while and or direct improvement the personal exemption has thereof ). The new tax law does been removed. The deduction/ still preserve the deduction of exemption trade off works well mortgage debt used to acquire for most people but may not for a second home. those with many dependents. The tax deduction for The law also temporarily raises alimony payments will no longer John W. Harris is the managing director and chief the exemption amount and be deductible for the person who wealth advisor for the Coral Gables Trust Company exemption phaseout threshold writes the checks. This provision Saturday, April 21 for the alternative minimum will apply to couples who sign tax (AMT), which affects high- divorce or separation paperwork er earners. These changes also after December 31, 2018. sunset at the end of 2025. The While Obamacare was sunset provisions were neces- not repealed, the new tax law Florida be- sary as a compromise to allow does permanently end the for the expeditious passage of Obamacare individual mandate comes a more the tax reform bill. starting in 2019. The individ- The deduction for state ual mandate provided for tax compelling and local income taxes, proper- penalties for individuals who ty taxes and sales tax, or SALT, did not obtain health insurance domicile... remains in place for those who coverage. itemize their taxes, but it is now subject to a $10,000 cap. Next Month Part II: This will likely hurt taxpayers Estate Planning

94 thecoralgablesmagazine.com 95 Time Machine THE GREEN MILE

In the late 1940s, you could Coral Gables City Hall. Today, better view of the whole area? stand in the middle of Mira- the theater hides behind the Park your car at the top of the cle Mile and view emblematic branches of leafy live oaks and garage at 220 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables landmarks such a new row of date palms along then peek over the rooftop’s as the Miracle Theatre and the Mile’s new median. Want a southern edge.

IN 1949

George Orwell’s 1984 is published

Soviet Union tests its first atomic bomb

RCA debuts first television broadcast 1949 in color The Berlin Blockade officially comes to an end

CBS premiers the The Goldbergs, TV’s first sitcom

Photo top: City of Coral Gables Historical Resources and Cultural Arts Department Photo bottom: Odalis Garcia 2018

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The best ships. The best islands. The most awards of any cruise line in the Caribbean. On our modern luxury ships, you’ll discover world- class accommodations, globally inspired cuisine by our Michelin- starred chef, and seamless service.

Contact one of our Holidays In Motion cruise specialist at 1-800-871-1777 or 305-443-3090 CruiseLeaders.com

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