There are three weeks left to get your Spice on and despite my best intentions (paving the way to hell) I’ve only been to ONE Miami Spice. That was Beauty & the Butcher in South Miami at the very beginning of August with friends. I am running out of time, but determined to do at least one or two more, before Miami Spice is over! Eating House is on the top of my Miami Spice Wish List.

The reason I haven’t tried more is being out of town- to D.C. for a lovely wedding and San Antonio for a long-delayed trip from 2019 to see the Alamo. Throw in a couple Girl’s Weekends in the Keys and U.M. football games and time is running out. I did have the most delicious dessert at a restaurant named Lutece in Georgetown, which I tried to replicate at home for dinner guests. Below is the original and my attempt at home.

Our server recommended it, with the caveat that it sounds weird but works and he was so right! It was a semi-fredo (like soft-serve) vanilla ice cream with Honeycomb crumbles and shaved Comte cheese on top. It does sound weird, but it was darned delicious, one of the best desserts I’ve ever eaten! The smooth, creamy ice cream, was topped with crunchy, gold honeycomb, which shattered into sticky shards; the silky and nutty shavings of the cheese added a bit of unexpected lusciousness and funk.

My attempt to re-create it at home was quite successful. This is a dessert I could eat all day. The ice cream I made was a simple vanilla custard (with vanilla bean) and my husband proclaimed it his favorite of all the ice creams I’ve made, but he is a vanilla guy.

Speaking of ice cream, Salt + Straw is coming to Miami Beach with a special ice cream served at the opening called Pistachio Dark Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich! It’s pistachio gelato and dark cherry buttercream with an olive oil and chocolate pistachio cookie. To gild the lily, it’s topped with truffle fudge and gold leaf bourbon caramel. It’s a limited edition.

I’m also on the mailing list for Sweet Melody Ice Cream in Coral Gables, which has amazing-sounding rotating flavors, such as “I’ll Be Baklava“- a Rose Water and Marscapone Ice Cream with brown butter, toasted phyllo dough and honey-covered pistachios and almonds. Wowza! Azucar is another Ice Cream option with a new location in Pinecrest. Gourmet Ice Cream shops are flourishing in South Florida, while good old Dairy Queen on US-1 just closed. Whip ‘N Dip is hanging in there.

In other restaurant news, Harry’s Pizzeria in Coconut Grove is back with their Cuban Sandwich Pizza. This was a special pizza which Harry’s owner Michael Schwartz teamed up with Versailles in January 2019 to create; it was only available for one month. It was so popular, they are bringing it back. It’s a white pizza topped with Roasted Pork, glazed Ham, Bread and Butter Pickles, Fontina and Gruyere cheeses and mustard sauce. It’s topped with a croquetta and is quite delicious. It’s available September 1st through September 30th. Maybe, if it’s a hit, they’ll put it on the regular menu.

We attended the first U.M. Game against Miami, Ohio last Saturday. Luckily, we won and I always love the excitement of the first game. We took Subby’s Subs to eat in the car before the game at 7. Subby’s is a new Sub shop, with Hot & Cold Subs, located in South Miami. They have Chicken Subs, Steak Subs, Hot Subs and you can make any small sub a wrap, which I did with my Roast Beef and Cheese Sub. You can also customize your sub, order online and they deliver. My wrap was very good and they don’t skimp on the meat. Served daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

We finally went to check out a house for sale in Pinecrest, near my friend Christian. It was a two-story that reminded me of the Brady Bunch house, down to the lack of bathrooms and a major need of an update. The yard and pool were nice but the Master Bedroom was tiny, with a miniscule closet and a one-sink bathroom. I can’t see myself living there. Even Mike and Carol Brady might object.

I, like most of the rest of the world, was shocked to hear Jimmy Buffet died. A speaker at a meeting for South Florida Writers I attended Saturday blasely mentioned it and I was like: “What? I didn’t even know he was sick.”

But I think that is quite like Jimmy Buffet to not want people to treat him differently because he was ill. He always wanted to keep the party going, not end it, so he dealt with his diagnosis privately. Jimmy Buffet’s music is synonymous with the Florida Keys, so of course, we often turned our Pandora in our condo to Margaritaville. And most any restaurant in the Keys that has music will feature some Jimmy Buffet tunes.

While best known for his music, he was quite the Renaissance Man. A pilot, boater, writer, philanthropist, poet and businessman, he was that lucky guy who was blessed with creative and business smarts, a combo not easy to find. He turned his “laid-back” persona and extensive song list into an enterprise that made a boatload of dinero. But, it was his fun-loving, optimistic & generous vibe that came through on stage. With all the tributes from fellow musicians and regular people flowing in, he was truly loved and not just by Parrot Heads. He was, in the end, a person who valued his family and friends above all the rest.

I gave my parents tickets to one of his concerts in the ’80’s at Miami Marine Stadium for their anniversary. They had a great time. There were Parrot Heads galor, in the stands, on boats and in the water at this concert by the bay, singing along to his songs. Nine years ago, Zeke and I attended a Fundraiser for that very Miami Marine Stadium at the Coral Gables Museum. Jimmy Buffet played a private mini-concert there with a couple tunes and it was a blast. Gloria Estephan joined him to sing Margaritaville as his last song. Pictured below is a photo of his daughter at the Fundraiser, with me behind her a friend sent. And a Margarita!

It still doesn’t seem like he’s gone, but I guess as long as we have his music he’s never really far away. As for me, I can’t wait for my travels to end so I can go to my “happy place” in Key Largo, make myself a Margarita, look out at the bay and listen to some Jimmy Buffet tunes. Dear Jimmy: “I hope you’re enjoying the scenery, I know that it’s pretty up there.”

And now I must confess I could use some rest I can’t run at this pace very long Yes, it’s quite insane Think I hurt my brain But it cleans me out, then I can go on.

Jimmy Buffet, Trying to Reason with Hurricane Season

Up Next: Zucchini & Goat Cheese Tart

I’ve been busy, but I would be remiss to mention one of my favorite times of year and that of other foodies- Miami Spice. There are over 200 restaurants participating in Miami Spice this year, but not all Miami Spices are created equal. You want to get the most bang for your buck and stay away from the predictable choices of salad appetizers, chicken entrees and cheesecake for dessert. I also avoid up-charges like the plague, as what’s the point of a prix fix menu if you keep adding extra charges to the ticket?

It also never seemed completely logical to charge the same price for dinner (it used to be $39) for Casual and Ultra-Expensive restaurants; now there’s two possible price points for dinner- $45 or $60. Lunch and Brunch are also options at some restaurants, for $30 to $35, making it perfect for ladies who lunch (or brunch). For that price, however, limitless mimosas are not included.

Here are my top picks for Miami Spice restaurants to try this year.

Eating House Coral Gables Lunch $35, Dinner $60

I haven’t been to Eating House since it moved to its new location on Giralda. Supposedly, it’s more sophisticated and grown up, but I just love Giorgio Rapicavolli’s food in any form. There are 3 choices for appetizers, 3 for entrees and 2 for dessert, including the famous (not so grown up) Dirt Cup.

Joe’s Stone Crab Miami Beach Lunch $35 or Dinner, $45 or $60

Wow! Joe’s, one of my favorite restaurants and a Miami institution, has never been on Miami Spice before, so this is a historic moment. I’m skipping lunch (no stone crabs) and the $45 Dinner (ditto) and heading straight for the $60 Taste of Joe’s. With their two most famous entrees- Fried Chicken and 3 Stone Crab Claws- how can you go wrong? You also get one yummy side and, of course, you have to top it off with their famous Key Lime Pie.

Komodo Downtown/Brickell Dinner only $60

I’ve always wanted to try Komodo and Miami Spice is the perfect time to sample this Pan-Asian hot spot. I would get the Korean Chicken Salad for an app and the Wild Mushroom Lo Mein or Korean Fried Chicken for an entree. For dessert, it’s hard to choose between Miso Chocolate Temptation and Japanese Cheesecake with Berry Compote, so I would kindly ask my companion to order the one I don’t get, so I can have a bite.

Marygold’s Brasserie Wynwood Dinner $60

Chef Brad Kilgore’s latest restaurant is located in the Arlo Hotel in Wynwood, cooking modern American cuisine. The appetizers, like Corn Mousse Angolotti or Jerk Oxtail Beignets sound amazing and hard to decide between Short Rib Vacca Frita and Ricotta Pillows for an entree. After all that rich food, I’ll opt for the Sorbet Trio.

Cafe La Trova Little Havana Dinner $45

I’ve been dying to try Michelle Berstein’s Michelin-recommended Restaurant and Bar for a while. Miami Spice offers the perfect time to go and dinner will only set you back $45, but I’m sure I’ll have to try one of their famous cocktails. Empanadas or Croquettas for apps, Skirt Steak or Fresh Catch for entree and Michy’s Bread Pudding with rum-soaked raisins for dessert is my vote.

LPM Restaurant and Bar Downtown $60

I had lunch here one time for a birthday and the food and service was amazing; it feels like you’re in Europe. At a recent dinner party, we all agreed this is one of the most consistently good restaurants in Miami. Serving light French fare with a Mediterranean twist, this restaurant would be perfect for a date night. I would get either the Sweet Corn Salad or Sea Bass Croquettes to start, the Salt-baked Snapper with artichokes and tomatoes for my entree and for dessert, the French toast with Spiced Ice Cream. Ooh la la! Viva la France.

Le Jardinier Design District Lunch $35, Dinner $60

This one-star Michelin Star French restaurant, has a modern, light-filled garden vibe and is veggie-forward. I prefer the lunch, with Salmon Crudo with cucumber vinaigrette, crispy quinoa for appetizer and either the Duck Confit Pave with fennel-apple puree or Couscous with Squash Blossoms for the main course. For dessert, Espresso Tres Leche with vanilla ice sounds refreshing.

Brasserie Laurel Downtown Brunch $35, Dinner $45

This is Michael Beltran’s (executive chef at Ariete) newest restaurant, located in the Miami World Center. For appetizer, I’m going for the Escargot, entree is French Onion Agnolotti (pasta) and the Blood Orange Granita with Lavender Ice Cream is dessert.

27 Restaurant Miami Beach Dinner $45

I try to avoid Miami Beach and I’m not a big fan of communal dining, but this restaurant might be worth the trek and it is Michelin-recommended. Another plus, their Miami Spice dinner is a deal at $45, hard to find on the Beach. Griot + Pikliz of Haitian Pork Shoulder with Spicy Slaw and Green Plantains sounds delicious for an appetizer, as well as Jerk Smoked Short Rib and Panna Cotta with granita, for entree and dessert.

Avra Estiatoria Sunny Isles Dinner $60

This sophisticated Greek restaurant is a hike, but it’s on many lists for recommended Miami Spice to try, so maybe the hike is worth it. Billed as “refined Greek food, with pure ingredients and simple preparation”, the interior is beautiful with muted colors and cozy banquettes. I would try the Three-spread Trio or Salmon Tartar to start, Branzino for a main course and Olive Oil Cake with Greek Yogurt for dessert.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your Spice on!

Up Next: Five Star Weekend Book Club Meeting

January found us at The Villages and down to Islamorada, to celebrate a friend’s 70th Birthday and visit John and Kelley, while our condo in Key Largo was rented. February, we flew to New York (which was luckily not too cold) to celebrate the anniversary of our first date, see Funny Girl and try new restaurants. In March, we went to visit Lauren for her 29th birthday in San Francisco, taking her to the famous House of Prime Rib for her Birthday Dinner.

April found us going on a Road Trip to Tallahassee (Chris and Courtney) and Tuscaloosa (Doug and Heidi). May was truly a month for the record book as I flew to Louisville, Kentucky with my Mom and sisters for the Kentucky Derby. Later that month, we flew to Seattle and embarked on an Alaskan cruise with friends to see my last of the 50 states.

And this was all before Wyatt and Phoenix left town!

They left in June, after school was out and I absolutely, positively wasn’t going to go anywhere but down to the Keys, but I found myself getting bored and feeling a touch of travel lust. I’d promised Zeke a trip to Las Vegas for his 60th Birthday last year and when his birthday was approaching and I had no idea for a gift, I thought “There’s no time like the present” and booked an impromptu trip to Las Vegas for his birthday.

We had a great trip to Las Vegas, starting with his birthday dinner at Giada’s in the Cromwell, which was perfect! I got the tasting menu, letting the Birthday Boy taste my items and they gave us complimentary Prosecco to celebrate. We stayed at The Wynn which is my favorite hotel in Vegas- classy, quiet and at the end of the strip.

Why I thought visiting Vegas in the middle of the summer would be a good idea, however, is a mystery. Vegas in the Summer is HOT! Like 111 degrees hot and that was the day I decided we should walk up and down the strip. Going into the casinos offered some respite, but that dry heat sucks the life out of you! Give me the sticky heat of Miami any day over that. One thing about traveling, it makes you appreciate home.

Zeke hadn’t been to Vegas since he was 11, on a Road Trip with his brothers and Dad. The hotel they’d stayed at- The Frontier– had been demolished (for The Wynn Encore), but we did walk down Freemont Street, where the original strip was located. It was a blast from the past and worth seeing, but once again- hot! We also did a Food Tour, saw a Concert (Carrie Underwood) and a Cirque Du Soleil show (O) at the Bellagio. We even saw impersonator Rich Little at the Tropicana (soon to be torn down), but that’s another story. And we went out with a bang with the Buffet at The Wynn.

Our trip to Vegas took us into July and then I did an around-the-state trip to visit Chris, Courtney and Liam in Tallahassee and Justin, A.J., Wyatt and Phoenix in Saint Augustine. Justin is the captain of an 80 foot yacht called “Takin’It Easy” (after the Eagle’s song) and we got to go out on it and play with “the toys” the day I was there. I picked up Wyatt and brought him home for Gigi Camp, which was great and lasted about 10 days. It always coincides with Shark Week, so we watched Jaws our last night. He loved it.

We went to the Keys last week for Mini Season, where Zeke went out for the first time and caught some lobsters for dinner. Delicious! We have one trip planned for August- a wedding in D.C.- but we’re mostly home, which is good because it’s Miami Spice. This is the perfect time to try out restaurants (especially expensive ones) for a fixed price.

There’s no problem with being a Travelholic, I suppose, except for, of course, it’s an expensive habit to have. Although it doesn’t necessarily have to be. Zeke says I’ve never met a trip I didn’t like, even if its going to Homestead to eat tamales, and he’s right. The more pressing issue I need to confront is, traveling prevents you from doing things you say you want to do- like selling your house and buying a smaller one and revising your Foodie In Miami website.

I need to remember Dorothy’s mantra.

There’s no place like home, there’s no place like home.

Dorothy Gale, The Wizard of Oz

Up Next: Miami Spice picks

It started Monday with Rosh Hashanah dinner at my sister’s Kelley’s house with her family. We had Matzo Ball Soup, Brisket with Gravy, Potato Leek Kugel, Brussels Sprouts with Tahini dressing and Pomegranate Seeds and Challah Bread. Dessert was a delicious Apple Upside Down Cake with whipped cream and I also made some Brown Butter Pecan Cookies to share.

The Butter Pecan Cookies was an Instagram recipe from Baker by Nature. I’ve been wanting to try it for a while and Rosh Hashanah was a perfect opportunity. I like making cookies for events where I can share them, so I’m not stuck with a whole batch at home! They were a hit. I left some with Kelley and froze the rest. It was so nice to spend time with her family and celebrate the Jewish New Year with good food.

We had leftover Brisket that I heated up for dinner later in the week. I really wanted Mashed Potatoes with it, but didn’t want to spend the time and effort peeling, boiling and mashing them, so I used a package of Instant Idaho potatoes. I’d bought it to use in a Yeast Roll recipe, but never made it, so I thought “What the heck?” How bad could they be?

You boil the water (I used half chicken stock), stir in the packet contents and voila! Mashed potatoes in a minute. While this is certainly against Foodie in Miami’s religion, they were actually pretty tasty and buttery (fake butter I’m sure). I served them with the leftover brisket and peas. While I wouldn’t do this on a regular basis, I would make them again if I was short of time and energy.

Since time was running out time for Miami Spice, I actually made two reservations for lunches last week. A.J. and I were supposed to go to Sexy Fish on Wednesday, but when Hurricane Ian cancelled school for Wyatt, she hightailed it to Mississippi with her family. So, lucky Zeke- he was my lunch date for Sexy Fish!

Sexy Fish, on Brickell, is the most photogenic restaurant I’ve ever eaten at. The decor is over-the-top Vegas meets Little Mermaid, with seascape uniforms of vibrant magenta and aqua, and beautifully plated food. The vibe is fun and relaxed. It was empty when we arrived at 12, but packed by the time we left, so you definitely need reservations. This place is ready for it’s close-up, made for Instagram and photos are encouraged.

Having said all that, if the food and service weren’t excellent, all the hoopla in the deep blue sea wouldn’t matter. Good news! Our server (Nina) was excellent and oh-so helpful and the food, although small portions, was delicious. $28 for Miami Spice was a great deal. I would pay $30 just to walk into this place. Don’t forget to check out the Men’s Bathroom if you go.

Recommended dishes:

• Burrata, kimchi and prawn cracker
• Yellowtail Spicy Maki
• Kimchi Fried Rice
• Steamed Sea Bass
• Warm Cinnamon Mini Donuts with Passionfruit Sauce

The drinks we had were also like works of art, but very expensive; they were almost as much as our lunch. While Miami Spice is over, they do have a Kuikku Lunch, Monday through Friday, for $32. They offer all the items we got on Miami Spice.

The next day, we had another Miami Spice Lunch, this one at Cote Korean Steakhouse, the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Miami. The vibe was different than Sexy Fish. It was very New York with mirrored doors, red lights, bare concrete floors and Techno music thumping in the background. I will write about it later, because this post is already too long, but it was interesting going out to lunch and comparing the two restaurants.

You would think I would go home and fast the rest of the week after these back-to-back meals, but I had a Birthday Dinner that night for my Mom at Mi’Italia. We got the delicious Whipped Ricotta Toasts to share and despite saying “I wasn’t hungry at all” had quite a few bites of the Pesto Ravioli in Mint and Pistachio sauce. My Mom and Elise split the Bolognese with Burrata and we all shared the Apple Almond Cake with a creamy, luscious Pistachio Gelato. Everything was good.

We then attended a Fleetwood Mac Candlelight Concert at Coral Gables Congregational Church. Elise had gotten tickets for my Mom’s birthday. It was the first time I had been to one of these concerts and it was lovely!

Now, I really should have stopped eating out at this point, but I had a Birthday Lunch the next day at Perry’s Steakhouse in Merrick Park. While most of of the ladies at the table ordered salads, I doubled down on the gluttony and got the Perry’s Famous Pork Chop. It’s only $17 on Fridays, comes with whipped mashed potatoes and is amazingly delicious. I did take some of it home!

Dessert was a Bread Pudding topped with an enormous homemade marshmallow, caramel sauce and candied walnuts. Completely decadent, it went around the table twice for more tastes. I will not be stepping on a scale for a long time!

Foodie News

Speaking of fattening stuff, have you heard of the latest Tik Tok Food Trend of Butter Boards?

It’s basically softened butter spread on a wooden board, sprinkled with salt, lemon zest, pepper flakes and honey, and served with thick slices of bread. Butter Boards, according the New York Times, are “cheaper and less fussy” than Charcuterie Boards. A spin-off board is the Cream Cheese Board, smeared with cream cheese and sprinkled with sliced onions, capers, smoked salmon and served with sliced-up bagels. That sounds like a fun Brunch idea!

Another hot Tik Tok Trend is the Raw Carrot Salad. It’s made with raw carrot slices, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper. It’s supposed to regulate your hormones. I tried it and the taste was just ok, nothing to write home about. I don’t know if it regulated my hormones. Hard to tell, but after all the eating out I’ve done, a better option for me than Butter Boards.

Publix has gotten so expensive! I went to buy dates and they were $7! Not exactly a necessity, I just couldn’t do it. And my little bag of San Marzano tomatoes I love and Wyatt devours are now $4. They’re much cheaper at Trader Joe’s, so I’m going to start shopping there more. Shopping at Publix is not a pleasure when you’re getting price gouged.

Those of us who live in Miami are breathing a sigh of relief that Hurricane Ian didn’t hit us. But of course, we feel for all those affected by this monster hurricane, in other parts of the state. Many of us here remember Hurricane Andrew, which struck 30 years ago in Miami, and know the long road to recovery and rebuilding that lies ahead.

Unfortunately, it seems some “Old Florida” towns that were destroyed, filled with wooden structures and quaint Main Streets, will never be the same. And some residents, especially those without flood insurance, may not choose, or be able, to rebuild.

Jose Andres and his World Central Kitchen are in the affected areas, serving meals and water to those in need. You can donate to World Central Kitchen at https://www.wck.org.donate. I’m donating today in memory of my Dad, Butch Rice, who passed away 20 years ago today.

Time makes you bolder Even children get older I’m getting older too Oh! I’m getting older too.

Landslide by Fleetwood Mac

Up Next: The Best Chicken Soup Recipe

First of all, of course, it’s Miami Spice of course and will be until the end of September. I haven’t be able to make it to one, but finally ate at Zitz Sum with friends a couple weeks ago and really enjoyed it. It’s a small restaurant, located inside a Coral Gables office building, with an open kitchen, bamboo chairs and tropical wallpaper. Unfortunately, they didn’t have Miami Spice. My favorite menu item we ordered (most items are meant to be shared) was the Bings Sourdough Pancake with a plate-licking, Sesame Seed, Miso Honey Butter. Zitz Sum is open for Happy Hour Tuesday -Friday from 5-7 and for dinner Tuesday- Saturday. They’re closed Sunday and Monday.

In other Miami food news, Fox’s Lounge, the 70-year-old, world’s darkest bar that closed in 2015, has re-opened, although in a slightly different configuration. I was never a frequent visitor of Fox’s (although we did sometimes use the walk-up liquor window), but my Uncle Jack loved this old-school restaurant and especially it’s Prime Rib. The Prime Rib is back, as are other classic dishes Fox’s loyal customers expect, but some are served with a twist on the original. My Miami Dining spy recently ate there and said that while the cocktails are good (she had a Martini), the kitchen seemed to be having issues. Let’s hope they get these resolved because we’re rooting for this South Miami Institution to continue and thrive.

The other restaurant that recently opened (July 25th), where an institution used to stand, is the Bayshore Club. It’s located in Coconut Grove, where Scotty’s Landing used to be. I did go to Scotty’s Landing fairly frequently, mostly with my Dad on the boat. While I appreciated the “old Miami” feel of the place, I never thought the food was that great. The Bayshore Club is part of the Grove Bay Hospitality Group and the kitchen is run by Top Chef alumni Jeff McInnis, who also helms Root and Bone and Mi’talia with his wife Janine Booth.

My Miami Dining Spy attended a “soft opening” for the Bayshore Club and sampled the Grilled Local Fish Tacos $18, a “yummy” cocktail and Guava BBQ Spareribs, which she termed “delicious”. The ribs are pricey ($48), but enough to share and come with Miami Slaw and fries. She loved the atmosphere, describing it like “being on vacation” and said there was a mix of people- Middle-Aged, Young Adults and Families with Children. In her words, “it all seemed to work.”

A peek at their website, reveals a space that looks light, bright and green, while paying homage to the location’s past with a mural with the word “Miami” and a seaplane. This historic spot, on Dinner Key, used to be the base for Pan Am’s flying boats. The menu looks good and not too pricey, with Florida favorites like Fish Dip, Ceviche and Conch Fritters, as well as Salads, Burgers and Main Dishes, liked Seared Snapper Filet. I can’t wait to try the Bayshore Club. Unfortunately, they aren’t doing Miami Spice.

In international news, there is a Dijon mustard shortage in France. Mon Dieu! This has resulted from climate change, the Russian war in Ukraine, Covid Supply Chains and rising costs. The brown seeds used to make Dijon mostly come from Canada and a heat wave last summer reduced production by 50%. In France, most stores have been wiped out of their Dijon and in those that haven’t, there’s a limit of one pot per person. I haven’t noticed a shortage here in Miami, but then again, I haven’t really been looking.

In national news, Taco Bell pulled their Mexican Pizza from their menu, apparently a big deal to many Taco Bell diners, but not to this Foodie in Miami, who rarely eats at Taco Bell. This item was a cult favorite order in 2020, but was pulled from the menu as it was difficult to keep up with the supply. After fan outcry, Taco Bell put it back on the menu at the end of May, but the supply couldn’t keep up with the demand, so it was taken back off the menu. One customer in California ordered 180 Mexican pizzas! This item, which is two tostadas filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with cheese and tomatoes, is supposed to re-appear on the menu in Mid-September. A win for Mexican Pizza lovers.

And, in other Pizza News, Pickle Pizza is now a thing. The article I read compared it to Hawaiian Pizza, in referencing it’s “love it or hate it” status. Supposedly, it was invented at Rhino’s Pizzaria in Upstate New York and is revered by fans for its sweet, salty, puckery flavor. This pizza is normally made with a white or ranch sauce (as opposed to red) and appeared at State Fairs in Minnesota, Indiana and Florida. It took off in popularity via Local and Social Media; each pizzeria makes their Pickle Pizza a little differently. I’m not sure how I feel about Pickle Pizza, but will definitely give it the old college try. Pickle flavors, such as the pickle seasoning at Trader Joe’s, are trending hard these days.

And in the last Pizza News, Dominos is leaving Italy. Apparently, the Mom and Pop stores started doing delivery and pick-up during Covid, reducing the need for Dominos. Whoever thought opening a Dominos in the birthplace of pizza was a good idea in the first place? I’m sure those Mom and Pop Italian Pizzerias would not approve of Mexican or Pickle Pizza either!

And, in my own Food News, here was my week of meals from last week. Sunday, tired after coming from the Keys, I made Rigatoni with pre-jarred red sauce and store-bought meatballs and ricotta. A little garlic bread finished off my carb-filled feast. There’s no shame in jarred sauce if it’s a good one; I like Rao’s and Del Grosso’s Sunday Marinara.

Monday I tried True Food Kitchen in the Falls for an End-of-the-Year Tennis Lunch and it was really good. They offered Miami Spice with some interesting selections, which some of the ladies tried, but I wanted the Seasonal Corn Soup as an appetizer and they were out. The Charred Cauliflower appetizer and Hummus, that the table shared were really tasty, as was my Turkey Burger. The concept for the restaurant was developed by wellness guru Andrew Weil and revolves around his anti-inflammatory diet and using fresh, seasonal foods. It’s an “eco-chic chain serving health conscious food”, according to its website. I’d heard about it a while ago from friends, so was glad to try this restaurant located in the former Friday’s location. RIP Fridays! Another one bites the dust.

That night for dinner, I made a healthy Pork Tenderloin, crusted with crushed fennel seed, garlic, salt and olive oil and roasted over a bed of onions, apples and grapes. Since I was being so virtuous for the main course, I made stuffing as a side. Pork tenderloin is a lean meat that is an easy-to-make option for a quick dinner. Making it on the sheet pan with the ingredients underneath makes it even easier and clean-up is a breeze if you use foil on the pan. Leftovers are great for sandwiches, on pizza, in fajitas or quesadillas.

Wednesday, I whipped up a Real Simple recipe for Mango Chicken Curry, since I had mangoes from my tree and the rest of the ingredients on hand. I served it over Jasmine Rice and put toppings out- jalapeno, toasted coconut, scallions and sliced avocado- to go on top. A.J. and Phoenix, who’s becoming very good at feeding himself, dined with us. It was a light, summery dish.

Thursday night I made Bibimbap from a Hello Fresh box Emma had given us. She’s been a little swamped lately with starting her new job at U Health, so wasn’t able to use it and we reaped the benefit. Bibimbap is a Korean dish usually served with a fried egg on top, but this one had Jasmine rice, sauteed carrots and zucchini and ground pork with a sauce. We both really enjoyed it and Korean Food, like bibimbap, is trending.

Friday night we dined out in the Keys at the Italian Pizza Company. We didn’t have Mexican Pizza or Pickle Pizza, but a wood-fired Diavolo Pizza that was delicious, although a little burnt on the crust. We asked for it “extra crispy” and they complied. This is Neopolitan Pizza, flash baked in a wood-fire oven at a high temperature, so it sometimes comes out a little soft on the bottom. The Diavolo Pizza has red sauce, mozzarella, spicy Calabrian salami, Parmigiano and basil. We also got meatballs and I was so hungry, forgot to take a photo.

Well, that’s not all the Miami Dining news that’s fit to print, but it’s all I’m reporting on today. Wishing you a delightful last five weeks of Summer! Make them last- swim, splash, play, eat a tropical fruit, listen to a summer playlist, drink a fruity drink, eat a cold soup, try a Miami Spice. In other words- enjoy. It will be Fall before we know it.

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This addition of two price points for dinner occurred “to maintain the programs commitment to value and allow a greater number of restaurants to participate.” I think it’s a good idea, since sometimes the Miami Spice menus devolved to boring salad, chicken breast and ice cream options, in what seems like an attempt to save money, but still participate in the program. I think adding a higher price point for dinner will allow restaurants to stay true to their vision and offer more creative and enticing meals.

So, having said that, the other news that was big for Foodies in Miami were the Michelin Star awards, given earlier this year. Since Foodie in Miami is anxious to try some of these award-winning restaurants out, this article will present where the Michelin Star, Michelin Bib Gourmand and Michelin Point of View restaurants intersect. I am presenting these options to you as they are. To look at the menus, addresses and days available, go to the Miami Spice website- https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/miami-spice/restaurants.

The only restaurant with one Michelin Star participating in Miami Spice is:

• Cote Miami. $28 Lunch

There are three Bib Gourmand Michelin restaurants on the Miami Spice rotation this year. The Bib Gourmand is awarded to “friendly establishments that serve good food at reasonable prices.” And they offer even more reasonable prices during Miami Spice.

• Chug’s Diner. $28 Lunch, $45 Dinner.
• Michael’s Genuine. $45 Dinner.
• Red Rooster. $28 Lunch, $45 Dinner.

I had a hard time finding out what the Michelin “Point of View” award means, but on the Miami Spice website it notes “Michelin approved” on these restaurants, so that’s good enough for me. There is the biggest variety available for this category, with eleven restaurants awarded the Point of View.

• Cafe La Trova. $45 Dinner.
• LEKU at Rubell Museum. $28 Lunch, $45/$60 Dinner.
• KYU. $28 Lunch, $60 Dinner.
• Hoja Taqueria. $28 Lunch, $45 Dinner.
• Hakkasan. $45 Dinner.
• Los Fuegos. $60 Dinner.
• Mignonette. $60 Dinner.
• MILA. $60 Dinner.
• Nave. $28 Brunch, $60 Dinner.
• Orno. $60 Dinner.
• Pao by Paul Qui. $60 Dinner
• Tigre. $60 Dinner.

Of these restaurants, I ate at Nave for Miami Spice last year and had an excellent meal. My one time at KYU (many years ago), I loved it and would like to go back. I would also like to return to Michael’s Genuine, since it has been recently revamped, with a new menu. I would like to try the one-star Cote for lunch and have always wanted to try Pao by Paul Qui and visit the Faena, so that is on my wish list as well.

Miami Spicers- on your mark, get set, go! Only two months to try as many restaurants on YOUR wish list as possible! What’s on YOUR wish list for Miami Spice? Leave a comment of your top three restaurants below.

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The Heat is on!

So, it’s that wonderful time of year again- Miami Spice.

Not so wonderful to be walking around outside in Miami, because it’s humid as heck (my mushrooms are growing mushrooms), but wonderful if you’re looking for a reasonably priced meal at normally unreasonably-priced restaurants. Last year- that s**t show of 2020- I didn’t eat one Miami Spice meal, since we weren’t eating out. This year, I definitely plan on trying some restaurants when I return from a short trip in August.

I normally keep a list of restaurants I want to try during the year and then map out a plan for the months of Miami Spice (August and September). Sometimes I go for dinner, sometimes for lunch, sometimes with friends, sometimes with family. You definitely need to check the miamispice.com website for what days/meals the restaurants are serving Miami Spice. Next up, check out the Miami Spice menus, because they vary in quality and excitement from restaurant to restaurant. Lastly, when you go, you may have to request a Miami Spice menu because, for some reason, they are frequently not handed out to diners.

This year there are 114 restaurants participating in Miami Spice, down from a high of more than 200 in the past. I’m fine with that, because the amount of restaurants some years was simply overwhelming! Prices have crept up as well, with lunch starting at $28 a person and $42 for dinner for a three-course meal. This, of course, doesn’t include drinks and there are often up-charges for some dishes. I don’t usually do the up-charges, since I think it defeats the purpose of Miami Spice.

Here are some restaurants I hope to try on Miami Spice this year.

• Cafe La Trova, Little Havana
• Le Zoo Restaurant, Bal Harbour
• Mignonette, Downtown Miami
• Planta Queen, Coconut Grove
• Pubbelly Sushi, Dadeland
• Public Square, Coral Gables
• Tur Kitchen, Coral Gables

Here are some restaurants that I’ve already tried for Miami Spice that I recommend.

• Bulla Gastrobar (different locations)
• The Bazaar by Jose Andres, South Beach
• Bourbon Steak, Aventura
• Fiola, Coral Gables
• Glass and Vine, Coconut Grove
• Jaguar Restaurant, Coconut Grove
• Scarpetta, Miami Beach
• Seasons 52, Coral Gables
• Tigertail + Mary, Coconut Grove
• Zucca Restaurant, Coral Gables

And here are some restaurants I want to try for Miami Spice that are on Miami Beach, which is a whole other category. My husband and I rarely go to Miami Beach- between the exorbitant parking, the side show of people strolling the streets and the hike from our home- it’s just not our jam. The one exception is in August and September, because a lot of the restaurants I want to check out for Miami Spice are located there. I guess that’s what Uber was invented for.

• Drunken Dragon, South Beach
• Orange Blossom, South Beach
• Pao by Paul Qui at Faena, Miami Beach
• Stiltsville Fish Bar, South Beach
• Stubborn Seed, South Beach
• Sweet Liberty, South Beach

If any of my faithful Foodie In Miami readers are interested in doing a Miami Spice, message me and let’s get our Spice on!

P.S. If you’re checking out Yelp reviews, I’ve written a lot (84) under Gina G. from my recent travels.

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