Miami Spice Restaurant months are here again to delight Miamians & visitors to the best culinary adventures.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) launched Miami Spice months in the summer of 2002 with only 50 restaurants; this year and 320 participants later is one of the most anticipated summer experiences to showcase the best restaurants in the area, a variety of cuisines and pre-fixe menus to satisfy the most demanding palates. 

With an array of flavors, TEN concepts within Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group are included in 2024, from well known participants like Barsecco, Mercato della Pescheria, PaperFish, Marabu, Havana 1957, Oh! Mexico, News Cafe & Cafe Americano, to NEW to Spice, Osteria del Mar in South Beach & the steakhouse Asian inspired, Salty Flame . 

But first, let’s take a glance at the highlights of this year’s Spice offerings across Vida & Estilo, the keywords to your next perfect experience, and help you plan your visit.

 

Where to:  Brickell area / Brickell City Center /33131
Among the 3-4 levels of excellent shopping, dining & entertainment, there are two options to choose from: Cafe Americano on the 2nd floor & Marabu on the 4th floor.

@Cafe Americano lunch time, can’t miss it,  we talk about the Double Smash burger (pictures worth a thousand words, so here we go) with smashed double patties, double cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, tomato, special sauce & butter toasted brioche bun, served with french fries. Going at dinner time? Indulgence times are required for a molten chicken parmigiana  (trust me on this one).
No meat? No problem. For pasta fans, cacio e pepe daytime & cavatelli later on.
Dessert? Ay ay ay, french toast a la mode for dessert (at the end of the day is all day breakfast or brunch, or both).

Curious about how to tailor a Cuban cocina al carbon delicia during Spice?
Say no more, @Marabu Restaurant we got it covered.

Lunch time going Maduro en Tentacion.
Did you know that this is a countryside Cuban dish, served at the grandparents of concept chef Jorge (aka Jorgito)? The sweet plantain is placed whole on the charcoal and opens up with the heat. It is then removed and a rum syrup, according to the original recipe, is added. At Marabu, we give it a twist by adding—wait for it—bacon and then gratinating it with mozzarella cheese on the charcoal for a few more minutes before serving it at the table. The epitome of deliciousness.

Dinner time, must-try Tasajo over Tamal en Cazuela, another countryside classic, and now speaking of curated meats (correct, from where no fridge, no electricity, pass me the salt). Marabu tasajo is made with Black Angus short ribs, curated and marinated with salt for 7 days, slowly cooked for 5 hours in the charcoal oven (aka the Josper), and stewed with roasted vegetables and red wine. It is served over tamal en cazuela made with tender Cuban ground corn.

 

Where to:  Brickell area / going 33130
Miami’s vibrant financial district, where modern skyscrapers meet chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, and lively nightlife.

First stop, PaperFish Sushi Bar
Embark on a culinary journey at PaperFish Sushi Bar with a tasting menu featuring delectable options like Paper Tuna and Salmon Aburi. If you’re seeking an elevated sushi experience, enjoy sushi platters, Black Cod, and Short Ribs for dinner, with Mochi Ice Cream as a must-have dessert.
Q&A: Is PaperFish South Beach, located on Espanola Way, also participating in Spice days and nights? Absolutely, YES!

Weekend Brunch: Barsecco
For a fantastic brunch, head to Barsecco, where the menu boasts Smoked Salmon Bagel Crostinis, Mexi-Cali Avocado Toast, Classic French Toast, Bongiorno Breakfast, Barbacoa Chilaquiles, and Birria Benedicts. The stylish and lounge Barsecco also serves Spice dinners every night.

New to Spice: Salty Flame.
Introducing Salty Flame, the recently opened Asian-inspired steakhouse that’s creating a buzz with its trendy menu. Salty Flame offers lunch and dinner nightly, and brunch on weekends.

Menu Highlights

• Lunch Appetizers: Try the Orange Chicken Bowl with Sweet Orange Sauce, Pistachios, Milk Bok Choy, Green Onion, and Fresno Chili. Follow up with the Salty Flame Burger and end with Bread Pudding.
• Dinner: Don’t miss the Korean Fried Chicken, Ribeye, and Chocolate Cake.
• Weekends: Enjoy Breakfast Baos, Chicken Waffles, and an excellent selection of MOËTs at unbeatable prices.

Where to:  Miami Beach / South Beach 33139
Where pristine sands meet the azure Atlantic, Art Deco architecture, and an array of stylish dining—the ultimate destination for sun, style, and entertainment.

Cuban Cuisine: Havana 1957
Experience Un Dia en La Habana at @Havana 1957, offering a week-long Miami Spice experience for both lunch and dinner. For lunch, savor classics like the Cubano Sandwich and the highly acclaimed Ropa Vieja, or try the Pollo Asado Bowl. At dinner, indulge in signature dishes and the popular Cuban Sampler, known as La Orquesta Cubana. For dessert, choose between the timeless Homemade Flan or the moist and decadent Tres Leches. Spice menus are available at Havana 1957’s Miami Beach locations.

Mexican Food: Oh! Mexico
Mexican food enthusiasts visiting Lincoln Road, Espanola Way, or Ocean Drive can enjoy Spice Month offerings for lunch and dinner. At Oh! Mexico, lunch features Esquites, Al Pastor, and Churros, while dinner highlights include the Volcano (a crispy corn tortilla topped with melted Mexican cheese, avocado, and salsa verde) and Tampiquena Steaks. 

American with a Latin Twist: Cafe Americano
Cafe Americano on Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue offer lunch and dinner throughout Miami Spice. If you’re in Miami Beach, try the fresh and delicious Ceviche Sliders with Corvina, Shrimp, Aji Peppers, Avocado Green Goddess, Pico de Gallo, Pickled Red Onion, Cucumber, Cilantro, and Leche de Tigre on crispy tostadas. For dinner, consider the Spicy Shrimp Scampi or BBQ Pork Ribs. T-minus 3: Chocolate layer fondant cake for dessert.

Cucina Italiana: Mercato della Pescheria
“Qui si mangia”  Mercato della Pescheria on Espanola Way is a staple during Spice summers, offering pre-fixe lunch seven days a week. Enjoy Tableside Cacio e Pepe and the acclaimed Risotto di Funghi for lunch, while dinner features Italian favorites like Spaghetti alle Vongole and Parmigiana di Pollo. Going chocolate cake or key lime pie for dessert.

Last but Not Least: News Cafe
The iconic  NEWS CAFE returns to Miami Spice with its signature dishes. For lunch, try the local guavalicious Mozzarella Bites, Gianni’s Burger, Mahi Tacos, and Bucatini Carbonara. Dinner highlights include Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Molten Chicken Parmigiana, Grilled Mahi-Mahi with risotto and Spicy Shrimp Scampi. Save room for dessert with Chocolate Cake and Vanilla Ice Cream.

EXPERIENCE CULINARY EXCELLENCE
Get ready for 60 days of incredible dining from August 1st to September 30th, as Miami Spice takes over with Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group’s 9 concepts and 17 restaurants. From lunch and brunch to dinner, our tables are set, and we’re eager to welcome you for a season filled with exceptional culinary experiences. Join us and savor the best of Miami’s dining scene during Miami Spice 2024!

By. E Machado

hello word!

DASI4D

Mint Matcha Lavender & Limited time Offerings at Cortadito Coffee House.

One day, the manager at Cortadito Coffee House noticed a surge in requests to add matcha to non-matcha orders. Initially, he thought it was just one customer, but soon realized it was more than just a few times.

Matcha has been a staple at Cortadito Coffee House since its inception in 2020. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, variations of the popular matcha latte have been ordered on a daily basis, with guests opting for around 50 different sizes between lattes and teas.

 

Taking iced coffee beyond the basics

Let’s take a moment apart to discuss iced coffee. It’s clear that beyond coffee, restaurants across the US are embracing diverse offerings, and they’re becoming increasingly popular. In hotspots like Miami, choosing fresh and iced drinks throughout the day is an irresistible option. The truth is, the popularity of iced coffee is soaring, with new offerings constantly emerging. And when it comes to Miami, anything espresso-based is like the plat du jour.

 

Lavender: The rising star

Speaking of new trends, lavender has seen a remarkable surge in popularity. According to market research guru Datassential, the use of lavender in lattes, teas, and desserts has increased by 66% on menus over the past four years. What was once considered an independent coffee shop flavor or niche sparkling water addition has now become a quintessential spring offering. While lavender and lemon have long been recognized as a classic pairing, this versatile herb is now being combined with a broader range of flavors, including berries, matcha (for an especially beautiful presentation), and vanilla for balancing sweetness.

 

The ultimate fusion: Mint, Lavender and Matcha

What about mixing mint, lavender, and matcha? Now, that’s an idea that screams summer. Wait, what about spring? One word, Miami. So back to the mix. How does it work? Let’s start with the milk. You have the freedom to choose—whether it’s oat milk, which has seen a remarkable rise in popularity over the last years, or traditional favorites like cow milk, almond milk, or plant-based alternatives. Simply pick your favorite, about 8oz, and we’ll add sweet matcha for a unique twist on traditional tea. Carefully blended for the perfect balance of sweetness and packed with antioxidant properties, it’s sure to delight even those unfamiliar with matcha’s flavor profile. And that’s not all—our limited-time offering at Cortadito also boasts an aromatic herbal and floral flavor, courtesy of lavender. Just wait until you try it.

 

Your new go-to beverage

But wait, there’s more! Let’s not forget about mint. A staple in Mojitos everywhere, mint is to matcha what peanut butter is to jelly—a perfect pairing. Adding a few fresh leaves to your drink will make it your new go-to beverage for sunny days spent strolling around Miami Beach, lounging on the sand, or enjoying a lunch break in Coral Gables. And now, it’s also available for your commute to the office in Brickell, conveniently located at 800 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131.

By. E Machado

New Year & New Me resolutions are very common, especially in January. Most
determinations are related to personal goals like health, wellness, also personal &
professional growth, as well as travel, leisure, relationships and so many more..

There is one trend, currently proliferating in restaurant menus that has gained both
popularity and recognition due to the increased interest in healthier lifestyle impacting
drinking habits, especially when alcohol is involved: those are the alcohol free cocktails
and there is a week for that.

National Mocktail Week happens every January and is a celebration dedicated to
non-alcoholic cocktails, a time to appreciate recipes that don’t contain any alcohol.
Mocktails are perfect for those who prefer not to drink alcohol or for any occasion where
alcoholic beverages aren’t appropriate.

In preparations for this year’s Mocktail celebrations, we pair our selections with some
restaurant favorites across VE Restaurants in Miami & Las Vegas.

Mega Trends & Lemonade Inspired
While new flavors and formats are increasing, lemonade mocktails are an identified mega
trend in the non alcoholic beverage group. Lemonade is common at nearly all restaurant
types.
Most Popular Lemonades: Strawberry Cucumber Lemonade

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where. @Havana 1957
Strawberry is projected to grow up to 22% & is the most popular lemonade flavor in
menus.

 

Where else?
Strawberry Cucumber Lemonade is also trendy at Cafe Americano.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flavor Notes: Fresh strawberry, cucumber, lemon juice & sweetened with agave.
Fruits are mega trending in beverages & good examples are strawberry and lemon, but
in this case, adding a note of freshness with cucumber makes this Lemonade appealing
to the eye and palate.

Other Lemonade Mocktails.

Spicy Watermelon Lemonade
Where: @Oh! MEXICO Restaurant /
Flavor Notes: Fresh watermelon juice, jalapeños, cilantro, lemon juice, agave.
Fresh Peppers like Jalapeños are the most classic ways to add heat.
Spicy flavors in general are currently very popular & jalapenos appear in 58.5% of the
menus.

Dragon Fruit Lemonade
Where: PaperFish Sushi Bar
Flavor Notes: Dragon Fruit / Lime Juice / Ginger Beer / Pure Cane Sugar.
Dragon Fruit has grown 113%+ in the last 4 years, and is projected to appear in 3% of
menus.

Mango Limonata
Where. Mercato della Pescheria
Flavor Notes: Mango Puree, Cucumber & Lemonade.
Mango is projected to appear in 4.2% of Menus by 2027 & has grown 10%+ in the last 4
years.

IN THE MULE FAMILY

While Moscow Mule is projected to appear in 11.7% of the menus, according to market
research firm Datassential, it is no secret that the Mocktail Mules are deliciously refreshing
and good for any time of the day.

Basil Ginger Mule
Where. Marabu Restaurant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flavor Notes. Basil leaves, lemon juice & ginger beer

 

THE ONES WITH GREAT NAMES.
These you got to love.

Beauty and The Drink
Where. News Cafe
Flavor Notes. Q grapefruit soda, Rose Reduction, Citrus, Strawberry, Cucumber

You are Peachy
Where. Cafe Americano
Flavor Notes. Peach Reduction, Sour AF Lime, Lychee Reduction & Grapefruit Juice.

Resources. Datassential Report Pro.
Must Read. https://www.nrn.com/sponsored-content/hottest-trends-growing-restaurant-group

By. E. Machado

South Florida Business Journal has listed the 50 Largest Employers in SoFla including Vida & Estilo Hospitality Group, VEHG ranking #29.

VE, founded in Miami Beach in 1996, is the only restaurant industry group included in the top 50 with over 2,057 companywide employment & 1,608 in South Florida.

Ranked by number of SoFla employees, the list includes a great variety of employers in sectors like education, health care, insurance, travel, management & consulting and more.

Take a look at the full list

Cortadito Coffee House has been recognized this year with the Hispanic Heritage Month Award 21st Edition of the Annual Recognitions in the city of Miami Beach.

The Hispanic Affairs Committee in Miami Beach honored, including Cortadito together with over a dozen of members of the community who live or work in the City of Miami Beach and who have made a positive contribution to the city in their respective professions.

Hispanic Heritage month acknowledges the social and economic contributions of all Hispanos & Latinos, including their role in business, politics, science, education, the arts & the hospitality industry.

With its modern Ventanita style designs, the unique flavors & menu variety, Cortadito has become a crucial part of our heritage’s essence & proven to be a vibrant and dynamic celebration of culture, history & community, also providing continued support to Miami Beach Community, from Miami Beach HighTides football team to creating scholarships to FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management Students, as well as non-profit organizations like AYUDA by donating food to the
VIP Pre-Salsa Fest this year.

The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month can be traced back to 1968 when it began as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson until it was later expanded to a month-long celebration by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 happening every year from September 15th to October 15th.

Congratulations! Cortadito Coffee House.
#
By E. Machado