Food – Flair Miami

By Vannia Enriquez April 4, 2016 in All, Food, Fun, News

MOSCOW MULE WITH RUM

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but Moscow Mules have totally made a comeback!

This classic cocktail, also known as a Vodka Buck has been around since the 1940’s. I’m not sure if it’s the ginger beer or the copper mug that draws its fans… But this drink has been all the rage these days.

Since I’m not a big fan of vodka, I decided to make my Moscow Mule with a twist, I swapped out the vodka for some Cruzan Premium Aged Rum. PS: Apparently, I’m not the inventor of this drink, it’s actually a thing — if you replace the vodka for rum it is called a Dark ‘N’ Stormy. And if you substitute the rum with bourbon, it is called a Kentucky Mule. I guess it’s just a matter of preference.

With ginger beer as the base, this cocktail can be made so many different ways. If you enjoy the classic minty taste then fresh herbs are the way to go. However, if you want a tangy fruity-flavor you can add pomegranate, strawberries and even watermelon. As for the spirit, I always prefer a good rum. The spice of the ginger beer and the richness of the rum gives it the perfect taste! Depending on the type of rum you use (light or dark), feel free to play with the proportions.

I decided to keep it tangy and fresh! I invited a couple of friends over and this little cocktail was the start to a great weekend. Ready to make your own?

Here’s what you need for your Moscow Mule with a Twist a.k.a Dark ‘N’ Stormy:

2 cups of ice
2 ounces of Cruzan Rum
4 to 6 ounces of ginger beer
1/2 ounce of fresh squeezed lime juice (keep a lime for garnish)
2-3 mint sprigs
a splash of simple syrup

Combine ice, rum, ginger beer, lime juice, simple syrup and a few mint leaves in a shaker.
Mix well.
Pour cocktail into copper mug. (Served on ice if desired.)
Add fresh mint sprigs and lime wedges as extra garnish.

Enjoy!

By Vannia Enriquez December 14, 2015 in All, Food, News

SOUTH BEACH FOOD TOUR

When I think of Chicago, I think deep dish pizza. Texas = A delicious BBQ and smoked brisket. NYC = Cronut and a hot dog. But when it comes to Miami, I can’t seem to pin point it to just one food… Can you? There are so many culinary options that it seems kind of unfair to pick one or even two foods to describe us.

I guess we could always go with a cafecito and croqueta, but Miami food is just as diverse and multi-cultural as its people. Depending on what neighborhood you find yourself in, chances are you’ll most likely have plenty of options to satisfy your palate.

And last month Miami Culinary Tours proved our point by allowing Miguel and I to experience a unique and memorable culinary experience around our very own neighborhood, South Beach.

Here are some of the places we discovered:

1. Bolivar Restaurant
This stylish lounge offers a Colombian/Peruvian/Venezuelan fusion perfect for all occasions. Chef Jairo Hurtado, owner of La Ventana decided to take things up a notch and serve a blend of flavors. Here we had the classic Colombian empanada and a side of perfectly fresh ceviche. If you’ve never had ceviche, I stongly suggest you give it a go! Ceviche is a fresh raw fish cooked in citrus juices and spiced with ají. The dish was paired with refajo, a popular Colombian cocktail made with beer and Colombiana (a Colombian soda). A light and refreshing start!

2. Larios On The Beach
We continued the tour with some additional comfort food, our next stop was a taste of Cuban cuisine at no other than Larios. (Not to be confused with Casa Larios.) Larios On The Beach is a go-to-destination for authentic award-winning Cuban cuisine. The restaurant is owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan and the food and beach-themed decor did not disappoint. I am usually pretty skeptical of overly-touristy places, but I was definitely impressed with both the food and ambiance. I devoured the classic ropa vieja that was paired with perfectly crispy mariquitas. The meat offered a delicious blend of tenderness and it was season with delectable spices and green peppers.
3. The Tides Restaurant
This deco-style restaurant featured an international eclectic blend of flavors. The chef served a delightful chicken curry over a bed of couscous. Unfortunately, this specific dish was made just for the tour and is not normally on the menu. But if you want to give it a try, be sure to join the next tour! The sauce was rich and savory, you could almost taste the blend spices with just the smell.

Our part of the tour came to an end here. (Miguel and I had to run to another commitment.) But the tour continued without us and after all was said and done, they stopped at 5 different locations! The other indulgences included a veggie wrap at Blocks Pizza Deli and gelato at Milani Gelateria.

Experiencing the culture, history, and hidden culinary delights of South Beach was such a treat! We enjoyed meeting other like-minded individuals who share a love for great culinary experiences and the Art Deco district.

The South Beach food tour definitely leaves you feeling like an insider. You’re guaranteed a satisfied belly and a deeper love and understanding of Miami. Want to give it a try? Save $20 off the next experience, use the code GIFTLOVE. Enjoy!

By Vannia Enriquez October 26, 2015 in All, Food, News

CHIA PUDDING RECIPE

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day… Well, I almost always skip it. Unless I’ve planned ahead and made my favorite chia pudding recipe.

As much as I love a good hearty brunch (especially on Sunday mornings) I loathe making breakfast during the week. I will gladly cook an elaborate lunch or dinner, but breakfast? Meh. Let’s just say I am not a morning person and precious sleep trumps all hunger.

That’s why on-the-go easy breakfast options like overnight raw-oatmeals and chia puddings are my go-to staples. Chia seeds have been around for centuries and I love their tapioca-like texture. They support a healthy digestive system and offer a great source of protein, antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.

To make my chia pudding I normally use regular organic chia seeds, but this time I wanted to change things up a bit and I tried kunachia’s chia+probiotics food blend – which combines a prebiotic with a probiotic.

The pudding came out a little less thicker than usual but it was full of extra goodness. You can try the recipe with either regular seeds or with the blended option, either way it will give you a natural energy boost to start your day. Just what I need!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Yields: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

2 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons of 100% pure organic maple syrup
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup Kunachia chia seeds or chia + probiotic blend
1 pint strawberries, rinsed, hulled and chopped
1 pint blueberries, rinsed
1 pint raspberries, rinsed
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Directions:

In a medium bowl, gently whisk the almond milk, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla and blend until the mixture is perfectly distributed and slightly thickened.

2. Slowly whisk-in the chia seeds and distribute evenly.
3. Refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes.

4. After mixture has settled, mix the pudding with a spoon to evenly distribute the seeds.

5. At this point, you may spoon-in the mixture into mason jars or bowls, for serving. (FYI -I usually let the mixture sit overnight. This allows the seeds to settle and all the flavors to fully blend. But after 30 minutes it is technically ready for serving.)

6. Top with berries, almonds or honey if desired.

7. Enjoy! (To mix things up during the week, play with your toppings. I rotate between granola, dark chocolate chips, or shredded coconut. And of course, any and all fruits — the options are endless!)

8. If you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate them for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Best if consumed between 2-3 days.

By Vannia Enriquez August 28, 2015 in All, Food, News

NO-BAKE STRAWBERRY MOUSSE PIE

It’s been a while since I’ve shared a recipe. I think the last one I shared was eons ago, probably my No Bake Energy Bites?

Well, since I’ve been trying to savor the last days of summer — I got inspired to share an oldie but a goodie childhood favorite, I call it the No-bake Strawberry Mousse Pie. My sister and I used to make it all the time growing up, I’m pretty sure it was a Kraft recipe we found in the lid of a Cool Whip, but we’ve adapted it some for ourselves.

It’s my kind of dessert, lite and slightly tart. Hope you like it!

Prep time: 10 Min
Yields: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (3 oz.) Strawberry Flavored Jell-o
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water or 1 cup of ice
1 tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip Whip
1 ready-to-use Graham Cracker pie crust (6 oz.)
3 cups fresh strawberries

Directions:
1. Place water to boil.
2. Slice strawberries and set aside for later use.
3. Make Jell-o mix according to instructions on the box; be sure to stir mixture until it is completely dissolved.
4. Add ice or cold water to gelatin; stir until slightly thickened. (Instead of using one cup of cold water, you can also use one cup of ice to speed up the thickening of the mixture.)
5. Whisk in Cool Whip to make a pink mixture. Fold-in 2 cups chopped berries. Set aside remaining strawberries for pie toppings.
6. Refrigerate 45 minutes until mixture has thickened. (I’ve sometimes skipped this step altogether and place the mixture directly onto the pie.)
7. Spoon mix into crust.
8. To let the mixture thicken and mound well, refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.
9. Top with sliced berries just before serving.
10. Enjoy!

By Vannia Enriquez June 29, 2015 in All, Food, News

WYNWOOD FOOD TOUR

If you happen to be visiting Miami, the Wynwood Food Tour is a must! Wynwood has easily turned into one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods. It is home to about 70+ art galleries and over 100 restaurants that exhibit the eclectic taste of our culture. A few weeks back, the hubby and I had the privilege of spending a Saturday afternoon walking the streets of this vibrant neighborhood with Miami Culinary Tours.

The lovely Mirka, (a fellow Miami-Beach local) was our guide and she curated a wonderful Wynwood food tour where she joyously introduced the neighborhood’s art, cuisine and culture. Her cheerful spirit and historical Miami-knowledge was a breath of fresh air. The Miami weather however, eh not so fresh! It was as hot as can be, but the food and drinks made it all worthwhile. ;)

As any loyal foodie would, I ate anything and everything that was placed before me. We made several stops along the way, and I even managed to saved room for dessert. The total tour time was about 2.5 hours, we visited about 6 different restaurants and had way more than a full lunch…

Our culinary Wynwood food tour advventure went as follows:

Wynwood Walls Wynwood Doors – This was our meeting spot, here we learned about the street art and got some 411 about local, national, and international artists.
Wynwood Kitchen & Bar – Our first stop was this well-known hip restaurant offering a tapa-style menu. Chef Miguel Aguilar sent us some ropa vieja empanadas, tequenos & sweet plantains — these were paired with a local cold brew. The perfect starter!
R House Restaurant & Gallery – Then we headed to this unique restaurant/art gallery serving an eclectic mix of American, Mediterranean, Latin and Asian cuisines. Here, we had a brisket hoagie roll that was paired with a perfect bite of zesty corn.
Made In Italy Gourmet – After a few bites, we made a pit stop at this rustic and quaint Italian gourmet market, it was a small flashback of Sienna. We sampled some fresh bread and stinky cheese? ( I forgot the name of it, I wasn’t a big fan.) But the place was adorable! Next time, I’d go back and try an actual meal.
Jimmy’z Kitchen – Oh Jimmy! My mouth waters at the thought of this delectable Puerto Rican-style mofongo ( fried-mashed plantains) & chicken. This hit the spot!
Suviche – After almost suffering from a food comma, we stopped by Suviche and sipped on a pisco sour. Though Jimmy may have been my favorite meal, Suviche definitely took the cake for best ambiance.
Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop – Last but not least, we ended the food tour with the world famous key lime pie — made by an all time favorite local Derek, a City of Miami firefighter, fighting fires by day and baking by night.

My favorite part? Need you ask? The killer mofongo from Jimmy’z Kitchen and learning about the different graffiti artists featured on the Wynwood Walls and Wynwood Doors.

Whether you’re a Miami local or just popping by to check out the city, I highly recommend you check out any of their food tours. Miami Culinary Tours also offers tours around South Beach and Little Havana. Next on our list, we may just check out South Beach Food Tour. What about you?

By Vannia Enriquez May 27, 2015 in All, Food, News

BEST TACOS IN MIAMI

We all need to try at least one good taco in our lives, and no, I’m not talking about drive-thru tacos. Porque, let’s be real, yo no quiero Taco Bell. But, a fresh authentic Mexican spot, that’s a total win in my book.

And, let’s face it, finding a Cuban sandwich and pastelito in the 305 is a total breeze, but a fresh authentic Mexican taco? Those are a little hard to come by. (I guess we can somewhat envy our Texas and Cali friends after all.)

So, where are the best tacos in Miami you ask? I’ve done a fair share of taco hunting and rounded up 5 of the best tacos spots in Miami. Some are quaint mom-and-pop-shops that have been around for years, while others are new and trendy locations.

5. Huahua’s Taqueria
• 1211 Lincoln Road – Miami Beach
This taqueria has a playful take on traditional tacos. They are mostly known for their fried chicken tacos. Even Food Network Magazine and Zaggat named them one of the best tacos in US. Located on the west side of Lincoln Road, this casual taco shop offers delicious food and a welcoming fun environment.

4. Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
• 1220 16th Street, Miami Beach
1 tequila, 2 tequila, 3 tequila, floor! (Shhhh, there’s a cool secret bar in the back.) Pero, 1 taco, 2 taco, 3 taco, more! This hip taqueria/lounge offers affordable late-night delicious eats, straight out of an Airsteam truck. The Tacos Al Pastor are my absolute favorite, filled with broiled pork, charred pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and salsa rosada. I bet you can’t have just one!

3. Coyo Taco
• 2300 NW 2nd Ave. #3 – Wynwood
Coyo Taco may technically still be considered a newbie in the taco community, but their delicious and fresh take on traditional Mexican cuisine has definitely taken them to the top — quick. Their homemade tortillas, locally and naturally sourced veggies, meats, and seafood has been drawing crowds at all hours of the day. From a happening lunch spot, to a late night bite with drinks. Coyo is the spot to be, and with these hot summer days ahead, the pulpo (charred octopus) taco is one of my faves.

2. Taqueria Morelia
• 961 W Palm Drive – Florida City & 1875 NE 8th St – Homestead
This spot isn’t located in the heart of “Miami'” per se. They actually have two locations, one in Florida City and another in Homestead. I visited their Homestead location. (I pulled-up to the restaurant which is literally part of a gas station. The location definitely made me a little skeptic, I mean, I’m all about small mom-and-pops, but the gas station made me think twice.) After doing a little research on the internet, I realized that Morelia’s Taqueria was actually very well-rated and in fact they were known for having “the best tacos in South Florida.” With an authentic Mexican assortment of meats: al pastor, tongue, tripe, suadero (rib meat), steak, chicken, carnitas, chorizo, barbacoa beef – the options are endless. I went all in and tasted their lengua (tongue) and pastor tacos and they definitely did not disappoint. Mmmmm!

1. Viva Mexico
• 542 SW 12th Ave – Little Havana
Last but not least, this spot is for the taco purists. Their menu is quite simple, only tacos. No burritos or chimichangas found here. Their most popular item — the tacos surtidos. This tiny restaurant offers the traditional cuts of meats: chicken, pork, carnitas, along with their untraditonal (to you and me) but very popular Mexican cuts: ear, stomach, tongue, shoulder, and rind. If you’re the adventurous type, I highly recommend the tripe. After all, carne asada is for amateurs. Viva Mexico for the win, they definitely live up to their slogan “Las únicas y las mejores” — the best and the only ones.

Image Banner: Huahua’s Tacos

By Vannia Enriquez May 20, 2015 in All, Food, News

INSTACART MIAMI

Grocery home delivery is finally here! Thank you, Instacart Miami!!

This San Francisco-based company officially launched their 16th location on May 19th, and of course, they chose Miami as their next place to conquer. Locals around the area can now purchase their groceries with just a few clicks.

Customers can order from Costo Wholesale, BJ’s Wholesale Club, (no need to have a membership) Whole Foods, Winn Dixie and even Petco! The company currently offers delivery services in the metro Miami area. Neighborhoods include Brickell, Downtown, Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Little Havana and Wynwood area.

Now, you too can say goodbye to sitting in traffic, looking for parking, and waiting long lines just to buy groceries! All you have to do is download the app (or go online) and create your desired grocery list. Within hours, a shopper will do all the shopping for you and deliver at your door!

How much does it cost? Depends on how much you order and how soon you want it. Prices range from $3.99 to $9.99.

If this isn’t a game changer to simplify life for all the busy moms and working professionals, I don’t know what is!

In fact, I had to try it for myself. I made a pretty large order from BJ’s (on opening day). I’m not a big fan of grocery shopping. Therefore, quantity is key, and did I mention there is no Costco or BJ’s in the Miami Beach area?

Final verdict? I loved it. I got just what I wanted, and the customer service was great. Not only did I avoid a long drive, but I also got an extra hour of work done! Woot woot!

Want to give it a try? Use the promotion code FLAIRMIA and get a $10 credit toward your first order, and a MONTH of free deliveries.

Happy shopping!

By Vannia Enriquez April 20, 2015 in All, Food, News

RESTAURANT REVIEW: MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE

I have a confession to make, in the last 3 weeks I have probably consumed an entire (large) cow all by myself… No seriously, for someone who doesn’t eat red meat all that often, this month, I’ve had my fair share of beef experiences.

You name it, I ate it: Prime rib, churrasco, filet mignon, NY strip, top sirloin… I may have even had a few lamb chops and veal shanks, here and there.

Don’t worry, I didn’t eat all of this in one sitting. Some meals were from local restaurants, others while I was out of town, and some were home cooked meals.

However, one experience in particular left me wanting more. The surf and turf at Morton’s The Steakhouse.

Last Saturday, Giselle and I after a Flair meeting in the North Miami Beach/Aventura area, we decided to take a breather and have a nice lunch. We stopped by Morton’s and we were actually surprised that they were open for lunch.

Apparently, Morton’s in N. Miami Beach is now regularly open during lunch hours. (Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30am – 3pm.) And for only $29.50 you have the option of ordering from their Three Course Prime Lunch Selections, including pairing options like lobster bisque, prime sirloin, and many more — pretty great deal, no?

We were starving and the wide variety of items on the menu it made it hard for us to make a decision – so many delicious options!

I must say, I was even tempted to order a burger. After all, that’s how Morton’s got started, founder Arnie Morton, was known for his “million-dollar hamburger.”

Needless to say, I ditched the burger idea and went for some filet instead… It is called Morton’s THE Steakhouse, so of course, I went all in and ordered surf and turf!

From beginning to end, our experience was completely fabulous! In fact, I was so excited to get my hands on my entree, that I forgot to take a picture of it.

I got a shot of my deliciously fresh ahi tuna appetizer.

But as soon as they set down my plate, like an overly-enthused cave woman, I chomped away at the perfectly cooked medium-rare filet mignon. Only to then realize, I had forgotten to take a picture of the main dish. (Whoops! Good thing Morton’s had one to share with us.)

The perfect meal was topped-off with their legendary and perfectly-warm chocolate cake. It was superb!

Great service paired with great food, made for a delightful lunch experience.

The staff was extremely hospitable. Food was superb and the chic restaurant updates made us feel like we were in a fancy VIP lounge.

I will definitely be coming back. Decades later, it is definitely a tried and true favorite. I may even consider bringing mom here for Mother’s Day.

By Vannia Enriquez February 9, 2015 in All, Food, News

CALLING ALL FOODIES

Calling all foodies… Do you consider yourself a foodie?

According to wikipedia, “a foodie is a person who has an ardent or refined interest in food.” Foodies not only eat for nourishment, but rather they seek the thrill of an experience in a meal. Ahh yes, the pleasure of a delightful meal…

Lucky for you, Miami is the place to be and February is just the right time. This month, it is all about mouth-watering flavors, festive music and just the right amount of Miami flair!

Get your calendar, and get ready to save the date.

Saturday, Feb, 21 is the 2nd annual Eats & Beats festival. If you’re looking for an event “by locals, and for locals” this is the place for you… Get ready for some amazing food without the overly “fancy shmancy ” red velvet rope feel. Eats N Beats is focused on food and fun. It will surely satisfy your cravings with delightful tastings, fun libations and the best desserts our city has to offer. Event coordinators say “the goal was to create an event that will not only satisfy the palate but also stimulate all of the senses.” The event will showcase some our city’s top culinary and musical artistry. And don’t forget those beats – as local DJ’s set the scene with fun jams by some of Miami’s best bands and DJ’s. Tickets are going fast, register today.
The fun doesn’t end there… Sunday, Feb. 22 the sandy beaches of Miami Beach transform into the biggest food festival in town. The Miami Beach International Foodie Festival offers tastings from all over the world and great entertainment for all, even the little ones. The event will include music, live comedy, even bounce houses and hot rods — there is definitely something for everyone. What can you expect? Food, food and more food! After all, it is called a foodie fest. Come hungry and ready to taste goodies from top chefs. Bring the kiddos and get ready to delight your taste buds. You can purchase tickets today, general admission is $40 and VIP tickets are $100.
Oh, did we forget to mention Flair Miami is giving away tickets to our favorite foodies? Comment below and tell us what makes you a “foodie”.

Don’t miss your chance to join the fun and delight in some of the best dishes and libations our city has to offer. Register below for a chance to win. See you soon!

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By Giselle Valenzano November 5, 2014 in All, Fashion, Food, News

MIAMI FROYO

It just so happens that two of my favorite things star with ‘f’s’. Can you guess them? Fashion and FROYO.

To me, finding your favorite frozen yogurt is sort of like finding your favorite hair stylist. You try, and try, and experience some bad ones until you find one you love and are faithful to forever. Well, my quest for the best froyo in town has ended, and guess what, I found the best Miami froyo. There are 4 locations to choose from in Miami and over 1,300 in 46 countries.

Yogen Früz is a self-serve frozen yogurt heaven… In 1986, two brothers opened a frozen yogurt retail concept in Toronto, Canada. The small store turned into an extraordinary product and a great design.

Yogen Früz is delicious and nutritious, just what you need to live a healthy and active lifestyle. The one I go to is located right on Lincoln Road… With plenty of flavors and toppings to choose from, you can’t go wrong! Who doesn’t love a big cup of frozen yogurt on a warm sunny day? I know I don’t mind it!

H&M BlazerPacSun RomperZara Sandalls

Ok so now you’re probably craving some frozen yogurt but guess what! Today is your lucky day :) We are giving away a gift card to Yogen Früz! All you have to do is enter the raffle below and like Flair Miami and Yogen Früz’s Facebook pages! The winners will be announced next monday on our Facebook page. It’s simple and quick who knows maybe you’ll be the winner of some delicious Froyo ;)Good Luck!

Yogen Fruz

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