Miami Shoot

Advertise with MiamiShoot.com

February 8, 2025
February 12, 2021
December 24, 2020
December 5, 2020
November 26, 2020
November 12, 2020
November 11, 2020
November 9, 2020
November 5, 2020
October 27, 2020
August 7, 2020
July 22, 2020
June 28, 2020
Menu

The Issue

Cover Stories, Entertainment, Music, News & Entertainment, The Issue

Julio Iglesias, Jr.: World Tour with His Father, Family Life, & What’s Next

/

September-October Issue 2015 MIAMI NATIVE & SPANISH SINGER REVEALS WHAT IT’S LIKE BEING ON TOUR WITH HIS FATHER, GROWING UP AS AN ‘IGLESIAS,’ & WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR HIM By Gisel Habibnejad Photographed by Ernesto Poblacion With musical talent running through his veins, it’s safe to say Julio Iglesias, Jr. was born to grace the world with his gift. Throughout his lifetime and various works, music has always remained a constant. There’s no denying the greatness that awaits Julio in the near future with a new album in the works and joining his father on his world tour, among the many. Julio was born to Spanish music icon Julio Iglesias, and Filipina socialite and journalist Isabel Preysler. Growing up, his parents instilled morals and values that molded him into the person he is today. “My dad taught me the importance of working hard in anything you do in life and to always surround yourself with great people.” Having a popular singer as a father also had its perks. “When I was younger, I saw my father like any young boy sees his father. As I got older, I began to realize that my father was famous. It was always nice to hear my friends and their parents express how they love my father’s music,” says the singer. “It’s a great feeling when people appreciate what your parents do.” Although he doesn’t plan on having children in the near future, he can’t wait to instill his family values into his future offspring. “I value good people with big hearts, family, friends, and music.” As Julio grew older, his passion for music blossomed and he soon realized his purpose in life. “Growing up in a musically-inclined family, you learn to really appreciate it.” While it would be easy to assume Julio broke into show business through music, it was actually through his modeling career. With several campaigns under his belt, his most notable include: Versace and Gap. Soon after, he ventured off into other aspects of the industry. He displayed his dance moves on the Spanish version of Dancing with the Stars known as ¡Mira Quien Baila! He then went on to win the first season of Gone Country, featuring various celebrities from different genre backgrounds competing to become a country singer. However, the most memorable of his TV stints has to be his frequent appearances on Oprah Winfrey’s talk show. Somewhere between his modeling career and television shows, Julio toured and became the opening act of Cher’s Do You Believe? 1999 North American tour. Most recently, Julio recorded the album Latin Lovers, featuring various artists coming together to create a compilation covering popular Spanish music hits. Along with Nuno Resende and Damien Sargue, Julio performed several of these covers at numerous concerts throughout Europe. Among the popular singles are “Vous Les Femmes,” an original by his father, “La Camisa Negra,” and “Livin’ La Vida Loca.” When he’s not touring or traveling all over the world, he’s in Miami–the place he has called home for most of his life. Julio was born in Spain, but moved to our beloved city when he was a child. Ever since, it has held a special place in his heart. “My family and friends live here. There’s nothing better than that.” An ideal day for Julio is relaxing by the beach and playing tennis. “The great thing about Miami is that you never get bored here; the city is always expanding. There’s always something to do.” However, ‘home is where the heart is’ and his heart belongs to his beautiful wife, Charisse Verhaert. Charisse and Julio began dating 12 years ago and finally tied the knot in 2011. “I love my wife, she’s an amazing woman. I’m very blessed to have her by my side,” says Julio about the Belgian model. While he’s usually touring overseas, some of his favorite destinations are within our very boarders. He takes delight in making occasional trips to the Florida Keys and spending time in his vacation home. Besides boating and kite boarding, the drive itself brings him bliss. “The spectacular view of the ocean on both sides when crossing the Seven Mile Bridge really makes the long drive worth it.” Having attended Menlo College near San Francisco, Julio grew affection towards Northern California, which he visits at least four times a year. One of his favorite places on the west coast is Lake Tahoe. During the winter, he can’t get enough of snowboarding; while in the summer, he enjoys the quiet beaches. Earlier this year, it was announced Julio would be joining his father on his world tour. Their first official performance together took place on May 22nd in Romania. Bulgaria, Spain, and Portugal were among the other countries that followed. In September, he will perform alongside his father in Guadalajara, Santiago de Querétaro, Mérida, Yucatán, Hermosillo, Puebla, and Monterrey in Mexico. In November and December, he looks forward to touring in Asia. “It’s a great experience because I get to spend a lot of quality time with my father. To share a stage with him in front of 20,000 people has been a dream come true.” As for a concert in Miami, locals should be on the look out for an upcoming performance down the road. With this in mind, we had to ask: are there any future plans for a performance with Julio, his father, and Enrique? We were pleasantly surprised to find the answer to be yes. Whenever this occurs, it is sure to make history! We were especially excited to learn that Julio has begun writing and recording songs for his next Spanish solo album, which will be released next spring. Everyone will be able to get to know Julio on a personal level like never before, and he can’t wait to share it with the world. To keep up with all the latest news on Julio Iglesias, Jr., follow his social media accounts: Instagram: @juliojrofficial Facebook: www.facebook.com/JulioJrOfficial Twitter: @JulioJrOfficial Click here to view this

Business, Financial, The Issue

My Miami: Ken Mahoney

/

Ken Mahoney is the current star and face of financial advising. The Founder and CEO of Mahoney Asset Management in New York is known for his “outside of the box” ideas and creative approach to the financial market. That’s why he’s not only a highly sought-after guest expert on typical business shows and channels where he frequently gives us more insight into the swinging moods of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and NASDAQ. We also see him on programs, such as the TODAY show, where he educates viewers on various topics like turning your own junk into cash, for example. Since diversity is increasingly becoming a key ingredient in successful careers, Ken himself followed his own advice and branched out into his passion of Broadway. Today, he is not just a Broadway-lover but also a Tony Award winning producer! The happily married father of two boys is a true embodiment of the term “business meets pleasure” and views Miami as the perfect place for both family and business trips. When in Miami you can catch me… Taking a walk in the early morning on South Beach and Ocean Drive. I’ll spontaneously pop into a restaurant, like The Front Porch Cafe, for great breakfast and be entertained by people watching. The biggest misconception about Miami is… That it’s just the “hustle and bustle” of a big city. It can be at times, but the nearby ocean and the picturesque Art Deco District in the area can encourage people to stop and smell the roses. The last restaurant I enjoyed in Miami was… KLIMA Restaurant and Bar. It is simply outstanding spanish cuisine; plus, my wife and I enjoy the low-key atmosphere. We order a number of tapas to try a little of everything and I get to practice speaking Spanish, which is “un poco” [laughs]. What surprised me most about Miami was… That Miamians are really into their sports, especially the Miami Heat! But also the Miami Dolphins and Miami Marlins. When you speak to Miami natives, they usually jump right into their sport teams. Also, the architecture and Art Deco District being so close to the ocean is very beautiful. And the colors… my God, the colors! Aside from the weather, the best reason to return to Miami is… The vibe. I truly believe Miami invented the idea of “work hard, play hard.” People are so happy, warm and friendly. They accept you even though you’re there for a short stay. You feel so welcomed to come back. The first time I became really curious about Miami was… Do I need to share my age? [Laughs]. The Miami Sound Machine and the great opening theme of Miami Vice–including Jan Hammer’s amazing musical theme, of course. What happens in Miami stays in Miami…and in MSM. Any secret or funny moment you‘d like to share about you and this city? I was in traffic and noticed all the cars getting off an exit, so I figured “when in Rome…” I got off the exit earlier than I expected, and in hopes of skipping the accident ahead, I followed the car in front of me, figuring he would navigate us through local roads. The next thing you know, he pulled into his driveway! I pulled over and said I was not stalking him, but was expecting to follow him back to the highway. With that, he jumped back into his car and brought me back to the highway, with plenty of laughs. That is the kindness of Miami people! Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Entertainment, News & Entertainment, The Issue

LA MUSA Awards Induction Gala 2015

/

CELEBRATING THE GREATEST LATIN SONGWRITERS & COMPOSERS By Gisel Habibnejad Photography Courtesy of AR ENTERTAINMENT & LSHOF On October 18, 2012 history was made when the Nominating Committee and Board of Directors had their first meeting to establish The Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame. “I was driven by my passion to honor the greatest Latin Songwriters of all time,” shares Rudy Peréz, LSHOF Co-Founder and President, who joined forces with Desmond Child, LSHOF Co-Founder and Chairman, to create the organization. With the celebration of the musical accomplishments of Spanish and Portuguese icons as its driving force, these music titans will never be forgotten. In efforts to support and educate those aspiring to pursue a career in the music world, workshops, showcases, and scholarships are put into the hands of the next musically inclined generation. “Our immediate goals are to continue inspiring new generations of songwriters through our Masterclass In The Round series and ongoing digital initiatives,” says Peréz. Once a year, The Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame committee comes together to celebrate inductees and honorees with LA MUSA Awards Induction Gala. Special performances by artists currently making waves and presenters honoring their peers take place throughout the night. While the night is full of laughs and tears, the induction process is hard work. Involving singers, producers, songwriters, recording engineers, and performing rights organization representatives, the awards aren’t just handed to anyone. Some of the requirements include having their first big hit at least 20 years prior. The amount of significant influence they’ve had on other artists is also taken into consideration. The award trophy itself has a beautiful story behind it. The design was inspired by cofounder, Desmond Child’s mother in order to preserve her legacy and symbolize the meaning of the award. “In 2012 after my mother, the Cuban poet and songwriter Elena Casals passed away. I felt a strong need to create a legacy in her honor that would educate, preserve, honor and celebrate the lives and music of the world’s greatest Latin music songwriters and composers and encourage future generations of music creators in every genre,” recalls Child. Of course, none of this would be possible without the founders. Rudy Peréz, LSHOF Co-Founder and President, has made an impact in the music industry for the last 30 years writing about 300 #1 hit songs and being pronounced “Producer of the Decade” by Billboard Magazine with five Grammy wins. Fellow musical veteran of 40 years, LSHOF Co-Founder and Chairman, Desmond Child has sold 300 million albums worldwide and has worked with artists such as Bon Jovi, Katy Perry, and Aerosmith. In addition to honoring the biggest musical influences in the industry, they make it a priority to preserve an endless appreciation to songwriters who often become the unsung heroes of the music business. “We stand with them in solidarity so they will be able to make careers out of what they do best, which is to write the classic songs that we’ll be honoring at the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame far into the future,” declares Child. The Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame may be young, but the future only looks brighter with a museum in Miami and a traveling exhibition currently in the works. “We are in the planning stages of creating an interactive Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame Museum Experience that will be a must see tourist attraction in Miami,” reveals Peréz. For now, we can celebrate Latin music and its pioneers through LA MUSA Awards Induction Gala which will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at 7pm at The Fillmore Miami Beach Jackie Gleason Theatre. “This year we have many surprises in store, you will see unique performances that you’ll never see anywhere else, as well as a stellar line up of iconic legends and contemporary superstars all accompanied by the great La Musa Orchestra conducted by Maestro Eduardo Marturet of the Miami Symphony Orchestra,” shares Peréz. The upscale event will induct Hector Ochoa Cardenas, Emilio Estefan, Myriam Hernadez, Gustavo Santaolalla, Alvaro Torres, and Diego Torres. The 2015 Honorees include Beto Cuevas, Fonseca, Alejandra Guzman, Quincy Jones, and Rita Moreno.  LA MUSA Awards Induction Gala will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2015 For more information, please visit www.latinsonghall.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Business, News & Entertainment, The Issue

Michael Capponi & Gideon Kimbrell: Taking Entrepreneurship to the Next Level

/

By Angela Betancourt Photographed by Akram Soliman Miami Beach was not always the desirable city it is today. Its transformation is due large in part to visionaries who saw the city not for what it was, but for what it could be. One such visionary is Michael Capponi, an entrepreneur and humanitarian who has played a major role in shaping Miami’s nightlife industry. For the past 20 years, he has been one of Miami’s most prominent business figures and the gatekeeper to the hottest clubs in the city. His influence is legendary and it’s no surprise that his latest venture has become an instant success. Capponi partnered with software engineer and tech expert Gideon Kimbrell to create InList: a new members-only mobile app that is propelling the nightlife industry into the future. InList provides access to the hottest venues, restaurants, and parties around the world right at your fingertips. The app currently features hundreds of venues in more than 45 cities around the world including Miami, New York, Las Vegas, Paris, Ibiza, Saint-Tropez, Dubai, and Hong Kong. Since its launch, it has had more than 100,000 downloads. “It was an underserved market,” said Capponi who saw the tremendous potential to combine nightlife with technology in today’s connected world. “This is the future of nightlife.” InList uses a proprietary concierge model that allows app users to make dinner reservations, book a table at a club, or secure access to a special event right on their phone. The venues are selected by special “InList ambassadors” around the globe. These ambassadors are highly connected people tasked to hand-select the best events in their cities. The team plans on launching InList in new markets, incorporate more major events, and introduce a new ticketing category. “There are a lot of things we want to do but we want to make sure we execute it properly,” said Kimbrell. Bringing the worlds of nightlife and technology together is just one of Capponi’s many projects. In addition to being a nightlife pioneer, he is also an influential figure in the construction industry and a passionate humanitarian. Capponi has built and restored some of the most beautiful homes in Miami. He is the recipient of several awards including the Renovation Firm of the Year Award from the Developers and Builders Alliance. Recently he joined forces with Shear Construction & Management to form Capponi Shear Construction. The company builds and restores homes from Star Island to Indian Creek that range from $4 million to $50 million. For Capponi, restoration also plays a role in his charitable work. He is the founder of the Haiti Empowerment Mission, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization with the goal to empower the people of Haiti by providing quality education, diverse vocational training, and job creation. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Capponi and his team were one of the first people on the ground to help. In the past six years, he has been there more than 70 times. “The first 20 or so of those trips were mission trips to help on a humanitarian level to bring them food and medical attention,” Capponi explained. After that, his trips were about housing, education, and helping in boosting tourism as one of the pathways to sustainability. “We spent a lot of time promoting Haiti as a tourism destination.” Capponi knows there are still challenges to overcome in the country, especially when it comes to non-profit organizations, but he recognizes that progress is being made. Whether he is revolutionizing the nightlife industry, beautifying Miami with his construction projects, or improving lives in Haiti, Capponi’s innovative spirit and vision for the future is making a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. “We all have the same motives–to create business models that better the world somehow.” For more information on InList, please visit www.InList.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Luxury, The Issue

Louis Moinet: Everlasting Memoris

/

LOUIS MOINET DEBUTS A NEW CLASSIC IN TIMELESS BEAUTY By Gina Samarotto Composed of fifty-two pieces crafted in either 18kt rose or 18kt white gold, framed in a two-part bezel with bespoke, polished screws and functioning with an impossibly high level of elevated precision that can only be Swiss; the Memoris by Louis Moinet veritably purrs with exquisite richness. Created by the impeccably skilled craftsmen at Louis Moinet, the Memoris took Baselworld 2015 by storm when the timepiece made its luxury market debut earlier this year. Released in three limited editions of just sixty exquisite timepieces each, the Memoris is a stunning collaboration of form and function reserved for a very select few. So exclusive and brilliant is this timepiece that the debut of the Memoris has been referred to as “…probably the most important launch we’ve ever done” by company CEO and Creative Director, Jean-Marie Schaller. In addition to its hauntingly elegant good looks, what sets the Memoris apart from other luxury watches lies within its finely honed, visible and mesmerizing workings. Featuring inspired mechanical elements including a yoke that swivels along the same axis as the second wheel to improve the engagement and ‘Energie Plus,’ an automatic winding system relying on a spring and ‘crab claw’ design. In the case of the latter, the advantage of the ‘Energie Plus’ is the notable ability to allow the watch to be wound in multiple directions, minimizing the travel and optimizing each movement of the rotor so that the movements are wound more effectively over time. In a true pièce de résistance style, the chronograph feature of the Memoris was created to be held entirely within the dial – an industry first permitting the movements to be seen and swooned over at the gentle push of a button. Reigning in – as described by the watchmaker – “splendid isolation” the chronograph function on the dial shows each movement; assuring all that this is neither a skeleton nor superfluous component. “We couldn’t draw inspiration from what had gone before; everyone else worked from the premise that the chronograph was an additional complication on top of the time function,” explains Schaller. “Our starting point was the opposite: sweeping away the past and making the chronograph the heart of our design; the central component to which we then added a time function, rather than the other way round.” Indeed, the movement is for the chronograph element alone and to watch it work is to watch a finely choreographed display of graceful elegance. Named after the man who invented the chronograph, or ‘compteur de tierces’ as it were; the Switzerland-based Louis Moinet is a luxury creator of fine watches headquartered in Saint-Blaise, where the heart of Swiss watchmaking still beats in rhythmic staccato. Committed to innovate designs executed with impeccable artistry and using luxuriously exotic materials, Louis Moinet is the creator of distinctive timepieces showcasing the centuries old art of watchmaking. For further information on the limited edition Memoris, including availability and pricing, please visit www.louismoinet.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Culinary, The Issue

SIMI Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

/

By Gisel Habibnejad This fall, sip and relax your way through the season with SIMI Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The delectable flavors are taken from two separate vineyards located in Sonoma, California. Hints of cinnamon, cedar, clove, and toasty oak combine to make the perfect fall feasts rise to the occasion. Blackberry, plum, cassis, and black pepper give it the extra pop it needs to leave a lasting impression. In order to generate its impeccable composition, the wine undergoes a lengthy process measured to perfection. The wine is fermented with grape skins for 31 days to ensure the best quality. Additionally, the wine yields a second process over a 20-month period through malolactic fermentation, which guarantees a softer taste as opposed to a tart flavor. Pairs perfectly with: roasted mushroom and wild nettle pesto pizza; or charcoal-grilled beef carpaccio with asiago-onion salad. For more information, please visit www.simiwinery.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Business, Living, MSM Online, Real Estate, The Issue

Monica Venegas – Featured Power Broker of Miami’s Luxury Real Estate

/

By Angela Betancourt Photography by Korey Davis It’s hard to deny that Miami is experiencing a boom in the ultra luxury real estate market. This year the Wealth Report, issued by the London-based real estate consultancy firm Knight Frank, placed Miami in sixth place of the most important global cities for the wealthy. The demand for the Miami lifestyle and its growing influence on the world stage is attracting wealthy buyers and investors seeking the best money can buy. At the forefront of this growth is the Venegas International Group, a Miami-based international boutique real estate company that specializes in luxury acquisitions, project development, marketing, and property management services. Venegas International Group also provides guidance on risk assessments and portfolio diversification. The company was founded by real estate power house Monica Venegas who has spent the last 20 years successfully connecting real estate investors with high-end residential properties. Venegas has worked with high-profile developers in South Florida including the Terra Group, the Related Group, Millennium Partners, and the Château Group. Additionally, she’s offered pre-construction access to iconic buildings like Portofino Tower, Murano at Portofino, Icon South Beach, 900 Biscayne Bay, Trump Hollywood, Four Seasons, Château Beach, and Fendi Château Residences, among others. Her expertise in luxury residential, commercial, and international real estate has resulted in more than $3 billion in sales. “International buyers come to Miami looking for a lifestyle, and price is not the main factor,” said Venegas. “Rather, branded developments with service, design, amenities and location are the components that drive these elite buyers most. They want to know who is behind the project.” Most recently, Venegas International Group was entrusted with the launch, marketing, and sales of the new Fendi Château Residences in Surfside, which is slated to be completed for the summer of 2016. Venegas reports that the condominium is already 90% sold as of July. This much-anticipated project is the fashion house’s first luxury branded real estate property in the world. Its extravagant units range from $7 million to $25 million. “Fendi Château is the first Fendi Residences worldwide. It’s a boutique building with 58 flow-through private residences in 300-lineal feet of ocean front.” When complete, residents will enjoy amenities such as an attaché lifestyle with white glove service, amenities such as a private restaurant, kids club, screening room, a spa with an indoor European thermal pool, doorman, and much more. Venegas International Group was also responsible for the sold out Château Beach Residences in Sunny Isles Beach. This stunning 33-story ocean front property has 84 units priced from $1.5 million up to $25 million for the 9,050 sq ft, two-story penthouses. Some of the post amenities include a wine lounge, cigar bar, and indoor and outdoor wellness facility, and a private swimming pool. She has been part of the success of these two properties, consulting developers with her expertise in the marketing and sales of developments. With this, the success of these two properties doesn’t really come as a surprise to Venegas. She has seen Miami’s real estate market evolve over the years. “I’ve been a part of Miami’s history. Miami was once a small town and now it’s a cosmopolitan city on the world’s radar,” said Venegas. “As a result, Miami has become one of the fastest growing real estate markets in the world and there is an increasing number of clientele looking for the high-end lifestyle.” Thus, the Venegas International Group has worked hard to expand its global presence to meet the demands of international investors from new markets. “Europe used to be a strong market. Now the Middle East and Asia, especially China, are the markets that are most looking to invest in both residential and commercial real estate. Over the past seven years, we’ve paid a lot of attention to those markets. I have a very strong commitment with the Chinese particularly in Beijing and Shanghai. I go there 3-4 times a year,” she said. Over the course of the next several years, Venegas International Group plans to continue building a strong presence in China and further expand their services into new markets. Locally, the firm has expanded their services with the recent launch of their Sports, Arts, & Entertainment Division and partnership with tennis marketing company Premier Tennis. The two new ventures further cements Venegas International Group as an industry leader in Miami and the world. Venegas International Group Is located at 888 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 111, Miami, FL 33132 (786) 567-4122 For more information on Venegas International Group, please visit www.venegasinternationalgroup.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Fashion, Interviews, Luxury, The Issue

Jason of Beverly Hills Opens in the Miami Design District

/

By Katie Jackson Photography by World Red Eye Since 2002, Jason of Beverly Hills has become the go-to luxury jeweler among Hollywood’s elite. In providing diamond pieces that push limits while also maintaining opulent glamour, the brand has attracted high-profile clients including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Matthew McConaughey and MSM’s July/August cover model Joanna Krupa. Owner Jason Arasheben has expanded his popular brand from the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, to upscale locations in major cities including the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the Ritz-Carlton in Charlotte, North Carolina, and now in the heart of the Miami Design District. What began as an appointment-only diamond jeweler quickly grew into a multi-billion dollar operation. “We would design something specific to somebody’s personal style and image, so the DNA of the brand is custom pieces,” said Arasheben. “Then we kind of transcended into building collections.” Drawing inspiration from nature, architecture, fashion, and even cars, the brand’s collections are anything but ordinary. “We like to think out of the box and we like to be eccentric,” said Arasheben. “I always say that this is not your grandmother’s jewelry. If I make a piece and my mother hates it, I say okay, this is perfect.” The brand recently drew attention with their ADDICTED collection, featuring pieces like diamond encrusted pill pendants and syringe rings. “Everyone has an addiction to something,” said Arasheben. “This is an addiction to diamonds.” Though controversial, the collection has become a favorite among notable celebrities. “Rihanna, Katy Perry, and Lindsay Lohan have all purchased pieces from the ADDICTED collection,” said Arasheben. As for the fourth flagship location, Arasheben is thrilled to bring Jason of Beverly Hills to Miami. “The great thing about Miami is that the culture and vibe of the city is very much in line with the identity of our brand,” said Arasheben. “There’s a strong nightlife, people like to have fun, and there are a lot of South Americans who are big fans of our brand, so it was really the perfect alignment.” Jason of Beverly Hills is located at 140 NE 39th St, Miami, FL 33137 For more information on Jason of Beverly Hills, please visit www.jasonofbh.com Click here to view this post in our September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

Culinary, The Issue

Una Noche Buena at CENA by Michy

/

By Justina Coronel James Beard Award Winner Chef Michelle Bernstein brings Miami a taste from different cultures, a natural touch of flavorful ingredients, and a delicious flair of soulful cooking with the opening of CENA by Michy on Biscayne Boulevard. Bernstein cooks what she truly enjoys and that transfers gracefully onto the dishes that she prepares. Bernstein is a Miami native of Jewish and Latin descent who brings adventurous, yet simplistic recipes to the menu. CENA, which translates from Latin as “the most important meal of the day,” is a neighborhood restaurant that travels guests into a world of incredible flavors and world-taste wonders. This modern-day feel restaurant with an open concept view of the kitchen has a beautiful gold exquisite piece of art on the wall that encourages all guests to enjoy its beautiful delicacies. The bar is welcoming with multiple cocktail concoctions to serve such as the Cena Bramble and the Michy-lada. The Cena Bramble is shaken with either vodka or gin with lemon juice then strained over crushed ice topped with aperol laced peach-rhubarb compote. The Michy-lada has a little kick with baby bell and hot peppers with sour and navel orange that attains charred papaya shrub, spiced pomegranate and citrus, and then finally topped with estrella damm beer with an ancho chili smoked salt rim. The perfect way to cool down after this zesty drink is with the scrumptious food. Through her one-of-a-kind appetizers, Bernstein puts her own unique pizazz into the vegetable starters. The Beet Sorghum Risotto has roast beets with the added touch of horseradish crème fraiche; now you can’t ‘beet’ that! The Creamy Polenta has crunchy yet perfectly cooked brussel sprouts covered with a l’ekema oil slow poached egg. Bernstein tops the vegetable starters with a Cauliflower Steak that is pickled with garlic aioli, marconas, raisins, and capers, oh my! The best way to top off your dining experience is with a signature dinner dish, the Harissa Lamb Spare Ribs. It is deliciously cooked on la parilla with sumac yogurt smudge and tanzeya slow cooked fruit. This feel good restaurant embraces Bernstein’s colorful personality and her true dedication to good food. Make sure to indulge and enjoy the most important meal of the day at CENA by Michy. CENA by Michy is located at 6927 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33138 For more information, please visit www.cenabymichy.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view the online issue

LIFESTYLE, Living, Real Estate, The Issue

Miami Real Estyle: Chad Oppenheim World-Renowned Architect On His Latest Projects & Passion for Architecture

/

By Angela Betancourt When he was just seven years old, Miami-based architect Chad Oppenheim watched as his parents built a custom home. He became fascinated with the process and spent a lot of time with the architect learning and absorbing as much as he could. His interest grew throughout his elementary school years and by the time he reached the 8th grade, he was hooked and a lifelong love affair with architecture had begun. “While most of my friends were reading Sports Illustrated, I was reading Architectural Digest,” said Oppenheim. Oppenheim went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Cornell University and in 1999 became the founding principle of the award winning firm Oppenheim Architecture. Today, Oppenheim has become one of the most sought after architects of his time. His firm has become globally recognized for socially and environmentally conscious architecture and has set trends in the sustainable and humanitarian sectors. “I have a deep respect for the natural world, place, and life, and design projects that support and enhance those experiences. I like to celebrate the sense of place for each project that I’m designing by using natural resources and elements such as light, air, water, sky, views and vegetation, as well as locally sourced materials that root the project in its place,” said the architect. “Nature in itself inspires me.” His intense passion for green architecture has made Oppenheim a highly demanded speaker and lecturer. He has lectured at some of most prestigious universities in the country and he is the recipient of more than 50 academic and career distinctions. Among all of his awards, Oppenheim is most proud of being elevated to the prestigious College of Fellows of The American Institute of Architects (AIA). Oppenheim Architecture has left its mark around the world. In South Florida, the fi rm is behind the Ten Museum Park, Bal Harbour House, Marriott Marco Island, Sonesta Key Biscayne, and dozens more. To say that the firm’s project list is impressive is an understatement. With Chad Oppenheim at the helm, the company has quickly risen to the ranks of one of the most in-demand architecture firms in the world. Between single-family residences, mixed-use commercial buildings, hotels, and urban projects, Oppenheim Architecture has proven it can tackle just about anything. Behind all of this success is a strong philosophy and culture about the industry that is the driving force behind Oppenheim’s work. His vision and mission also inspires his team who share the same sense of purpose. “We strive to create architecture of elemental means that achieves the maximum effect of building both urbanistically from the scale of the pedestrian, to the experience inside of the building. Modern architecture can sometimes be associated as being cold and absent of charm, but we strive to create the ultimate nurturing and comforting environment for the occupants of our architecture. We want to create buildings and spaces that support and enhance life,” explained Oppenheim. Creating to support and enhance life means a chance for growth. To Oppenheim, each and every project is an opportunity to evolve in ways that further connect to what he describes as “the spirit of place.” It’s the idea of creating and building structures that seemingly integrate to its surroundings. It’s how Oppenheim brings his philosophy to life and helps define his signature style. “I love working on projects that integrate themselves into their environment and that celebrate the natural ecology of the place. I enjoy projects of all different scales, and I incorporate my design philosophy into each project regardless of its size. My main mission is to enhance life and the way people live, which is a lot of fun to do with single family homes, resorts and multi-family residences. I love creating incredible houses and environments for amazing clients,” said Oppenheim. The firm has been keeping busy winning additional accolades and working on both domestic and international projects. They recently won the Asia Pacific 2015 Award for Net Metropolis, a 1,550,000 sq ft mixed-use commercial building. Located in the Philippines, Net Metropolis uses cutting-edge technology and exceptional quality coupled with green design. They also won the 2015 Architizer A+ Awards for Residential Interiors, Jury Winner. In Miami, they completed designs for a new Whole Foods planned for 1901 Alton Road in Miami Beach which will feature 55,000 sq ft of retail space, 281 parking spaces, and a green wall and planters to shield the garage. It’s a very exciting time not just for the Oppenheim and his team but also for South Florida and the world. Oppenheim’s projects will continue to set the bar in this city and beyond. Miami especially has come a long way. “I think Miami has notoriously been a place where great architects designed not-so-great buildings. Now we’re starting to see great architects come in and do great buildings. It’s exciting to see that there’s an added value to projects with good design. It is something that our firm has been a proponent about, especially with residential buildings, which for a long time didn’t get that attention. We are now seeing it globally where residential buildings are getting the highest level of architecture.” House on a Dune Photography by Karen Fuchs House on a Dune is a minimalistic, elegant, and comfortable beach house located in Harbour Island, Bahamas: an island of choice for many high profiled celebrities. The 3,000 sq ft waterfront private residence was designed to reconnect its inhabitants with nature. Its design celebrates the island’s natural beauty and inspires a powerful connection to place and time. The home was built with environmentally sensitive materials that include concrete blocks, recycled cedar, reused pipe, and milk paint. The home has sliding doors that are made of impact-resistant glass as well as a palm frond roof made of cedar shakes similar to the architectural styles of many of the homes on the island over the last several hundred years. The home also holds many technological tricks that cleverly hide any visible light fixtures,

The Issue, Traveler

Miami to Maine & Everything In-Between

/

By Dawn Wilson When you have had enough of staying indoors because of the extreme heat and humidity of the summer, you may be ready to get outdoors into the fresh air of the autumn season. We can’t think of anything better than doing so while taking an exciting and informative road-trip across the country. Why not consider a road-trip from Miami to Maine? We know this is a long trip but we assure you that it will be well worth your time. In our efforts to inspire you to consider a Miami to Maine road-trip, we have come up with some of the must-see attractions along the way. FLORIDA Orlando Walt Disney World and Islands of Adventure/Universal Studios Two of the area’s premier theme parks with adventure rides, live entertainment, food and lots of souvenir shops. All three attract visitors of all ages. Daytona Daytona International Speedway A racetrack built in 1959 where NASCAR’s popular Daytona 500 race is held annually. Take a tour of the infamous speedway, from behind-the-scenes racecar inspections to delving into their large collection of “one-of-a-kind racing artifacts.” For more information, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com GEORGIA Atlanta World of Coca-Cola This museum educates its visitors about the history of the iconic soft drink through interactive presentations. See the different Coca-Cola memorabilia from around the world. Georgia Aquarium Once the largest public aquarium, it houses thousands of sea animals, representing approximately 500 species, living in 10 million gallons of water. SOUTH CAROLINA Columbia Riverbanks Zoo and Garden 170-acres of land that plays home to over 2,000 animals and lush theme gardens. Enjoy the area’s natural habitat and scenic views. NORTH CAROLINA Asheville Biltmore Estate Situated here is the largest privately owned house in America, the Biltmore House. Visitors can also enjoy the estate’s winery, shops and restaurants. For more information, please visit www.biltmore.com Linville Grandfather Mountain It is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain range in North Carolina. Hiking and picnicking is encouraged in order to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. For more information, please visit www.grandfather.com Linville Caverns Active limestone caverns open year round to visitors. Guided tours are offered, explaining the history of the caverns and subterranean area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. VIRGINIA Williamsburg Colonial Williamsburg A living history museum with 301-acres of historical buildings that date back to the eighteenth century. An interpretation of colonial times of America with restored buildings. Charlottesville Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello This was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Tour the 1769 mansion and learn about its history and explore its pristine gardens. Mount Vernon George Washington’s Mount Vernon Mount Vernon was the plantation home of our first president, George Washington. Its rich history has been preserved with various types of tours offered daily. WEST VIRGINIA Fayetteville New River Gorge Bridge This bridge is an arch bridge that is approximately 3,000 feet long and sits over the New River Gorge. Visitors can take stairs into the gorge or walk across the steel walkway underneath. MARYLAND Baltimore Museum of Dentistry One of the few museums in America dedicated to teaching visitors about dental history, oral health and dentistry. Visitors can see interesting dental artifacts and lively exhibitions. DELAWARE Wilmington The Grand Opera House A 1,208-seat performing arts theater, The Grand Opera House showcases local and national talent with its many theatrical productions, concerts and plays. Dover Air Mobility Command Museum Aircrafts no longer in production are housed here. With over 30 aircrafts on display visitors will see fi ghter planes, cargo haulers, bomber planes and helicopters. NEW JERSEY West Orange Thomas Edison National Historic Park The home of famed inventor, Thomas Edison, and his laboratory are located here. The park explains the history of both the laboratory and the homestead. Sussex High Point State Park Stunningly beautiful panoramic views of the lakes and mountains are seen at High Point State Park. Visitors enjoy boating, hiking, lake swimming and skiing. NEW YORK New York City Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty represents the symbol of freedom. Visitors come in remembrance of their ancestors’ journey to the United States. Battery Park A 25-acre, harbor facing public park. The Sphere and eternal flame memorial is just one of the many memorials and monuments worth seeing at Battery Park. Empire State Building Visit the observation deck of the 102-story, art deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan where there are 360-degree views of the city of New York. One World Observatory See amazing skyline views and surrounding waters of New York City from the 100th, 101st and 102nd fl oors of One World Trade Center where the Observatory is located. For more information, please visit oneworldobservatory.com CONNECTICUT New Haven Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University One of the oldest and largest natural history museums in the world, it offers both permanent and traveling exhibits. Interesting exhibits include fossils and dinosaur remains. RHODE ISLAND Newport Newport Cliff Walk A public access walkway along the coastline with beautiful ocean views, tunnels, smooth and rugged pathways. View massive gilded mansions along the way. MASSACHUSETTS Salem The House of the Seven Gables The oldest timber-framed mansion remaining in continental North America originally built in 1668. Discover how the mansion has changed over the centuries. For more information, please visit www.7gables.org Massachusetts Bay Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Charters take groups or individuals out for whale watching in the marine sanctuary. The marine offers helpful tips to help you get the most of your whale watching experience. For more information, please visit stellwagen.noaa.gov Martha’s Vineyard Martha’s Vineyard An island south of Cape Cod, it is a destination in popular demand by celebrities and the wealthy. Take a lovely ferry ride and enjoy the beautiful views the island has to offer. For more information, please visit www.mvol.com VERMONT Waterbury Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tour Learn how your favorite ice cream flavors are manufactured at the factory. Sample flavors not yet introduced to the public and create your own

Culinary, The Issue

Tea Time: Afternoon Tea in Miami

/

AFTERNOON TEA IN MIAMI NEVER LOOKED AND TASTED SO SWEET By Gisel Habibnejad With the popularity of tea blossoming in Miami, it’s hard to ignore the celebrated tearooms housing this elegant past time. We drink it all year round, and while you can drink coffee no matter the season as well; we always find ourselves turning to tea for remedies, nightly calm-me-downs, and morning pick-me-ups. Europe isn’t the only place that can enjoy their tea times–Miami is catching up and we’re doing it with style. You can enjoy Parisian desserts and delights at Ladurée or indulge fully on the experience at The Tea Room in Cauley Square. Who said Miami can’t do teatime? Here are two teahouses that dispel the myth. Ladurée Photography by Camilo Rios While tea is usually associated with the English, the tradition has come a long way with other cultures, such as the French. The beginning of the crossover is closely linked to the Ladurée family. For all things Paris, Ladurée is the place to go. Not only can you experience an afternoon in Paris, you can indulge in popular French bites like macaroons, ice cream and sorbet, pastries, and tarts. The small café is decorated and built to look remarkably identical to an authentic Parisian café–from the décor all the way down to their tasty treats. Everywhere you turn, you’re completely immersed in their gold, pink, and teal color theme. Enjoy your delicious desserts while people watching outside the restaurant in their classic table and chair sets. Don’t forget to take your little piece of Paris home with you! You can also purchase gift boxes with your choice of macaroons. So many styles and sizes to choose from, you might even end up taking more than one with you. Ladurée is located at 1118 Lincoln Road, Miami, FL 33139 For more information about Ladurée, please visit www.laduree.com The Tea Room in Cauley Square Photography by Andrew Feher If you’re looking for a cozy place to gather up your girlfriends for an afternoon tea, look no further than The Tea Room Restaurant at Cauley Square. With various themes of tearooms to choose from, there’s no denying the coziness that this teahouse offers. While themes vary, the vintage feel cannot be denied. Whichever room you choose, one thing is certain: you will feel as though you stepped into an English tearoom in the heart of London. Aside from the ambiance, The Tea Room Restaurant boasts Smoked Nova Scotia Platter for breakfast and a Lobster Club sandwich with a side of fruit, just to name a few of your options. Of course, they serve all kinds of tea ranging from organic herbal to spiced tea and everything in-between. The full-service restaurant houses a tea court, an outdoor seating area to enhance the mode of relaxation. With this stunning view, maybe teatime can become the new happy hour! Opened by Martha Wade, this teahouse has been around since 1974, and even survived the horrific Hurricane Andrew in 1992. However, the history of Cauley Square dates back to 1880 when the village was first established by William Cauley and Mr. Flager. The building was built in 1945, and by the 1950s, the village had become a spot for antique dealers. As many visitors can see, the restaurant has kept its vintage façade in everything from the décor to dining ware. The restaurant hosts a daily afternoon tea get together by appointment only, so be sure to have your spot reserved ahead of time. The Tea Room Restaurant at Cauley Square is located at 12310 SW 224th Street, Miami, FL 33170 For more information on The Tea Room Restaurant at Cauley Square, please visit www.tearoommiami.com Click here to view this post in the September/October 2015 digital issue Click here to view our online issue

Scroll to Top