I know it’s been a while since my last blog post and I do apologize for that but we have been super busy the last few months with several group bookings in both South and Central FL. It appears that many companies that had to postpone their travel plans have now been given the green light to take their teams out and for many of them who have been working remotely for the past two years, this is their first opportunity to bring their remote staff together for some team bonding/building activities which they are booking like crazy right now. The size of the groups that are being booked now, as compared to prior to the breakout in 2020 has increased quite considerably. Up until 2020, the average size group was around 20 people. Now the average is 40+.

At any rate, I happened to see a post on my Instagram feed highlighting this place called Cerveceria La Tropical nestled in an Oasis nestled in Wynwood and it definitely caught my eye. So much so, that I reached out to them and scheduled a visit to check them out. Not only so that I can share my find with you, but so I could hopefully plan some fun events there for my groups. Gloria, the Event Manager was off on this particular Sunday when I arrived, so she arranged for me to meet with Mike, one of the restaurant managers on duty on this day. I drove down from Boca and soon after I arrived, I met Mike who was expecting me. We bumped into Gloria of all people, who came on her day off with her family, to celebrate her birthday (now that sure is a testimonial to how much she loves this place!)

Cerveceria La Tropical is a “Tank to Glass” concept where they pour their brewed-in-house beers right from the tanks in the main dining room that also happens to have a great back story.  On July 21, 1888 The Blanco-Herrera family establishes Cervecería La Tropical on (Cuban) lands once owned by Federico Kohly. Cuba’s Oldest Brewery grows and grows, and by 1958 La Tropical accounts for over 60% of all beer production in Cuba, making the brand world-renowned. La Tropical stands alongside cigars, rum and music as the pride of Cuba.

“La Tropical founded the Cuban beer industry. La Tropical comprised acre upon acre of a brewery, tropical gardens and a baseball stadium, whose in-field sand was made of crushed La Tropical bottles. There were many owners, but my family held majority ownership. As a kid, I loved going to the brewery with my father. I can still smell the sweet and thick malty scent coming from the brewery.” RAMON BLANCO-HERRERA 4th Generation La Tropical Family Member

In 1896 Florida’s First Brewery is founded in Ybor City/Tampa, Florida, by Cuban cigar industrialist family: Martinez-Ybor. In 1897 La Tropical beer is produced and distributed in Florida. The Florida La Tropical brand has an affiliation with the La Tropical brand from Cuba. In the early 1900’s La Tropical in Ybor City produced 80,000 barrels of beer at its’ peak. The Cuban embargo and new Florida competition from Anheuser Busch and Schlitz forced the shutdown of the brewery in 1961. Dale Swope, a Tampa attorney, acquires the old La Tropical brewery in Ybor City in 1999 and embarks on a historical preservation project to save the building after years of neglect.

in 1904 The La Tropical beer gardens are opened, near the banks of the Almendares River, and quickly become a must-go destination for cold cerveza, fun, music and dance. Designed by Cuban architect Ramón Magriñá, the gardens were inspired by the Spanish gardens of Gaudí. Los Jardines de La Tropical included a botanical Tropical garden with a multitude of concrete structures designed in a modernist and organic style, as well as a replica castle of the Alhambra de Granada in Spain.

SYLVIA MUÑIZ DE MURAI

“My father was the General Manager of the brewery and we lived in an exquisite castle within Los Jardines de La Tropical. They were the happiest days of my childhood.”

1960 marks the arrival of the revolution in Cuba begins and La Tropical’s assets are seized. The Cuban exodus begins and over one million Cubans flee the island, including the now impoverished Blanco-Herrera and Kohly families. Miami welcomes them with open arms.

“It was Christmas Eve, December 24, 1960, when our world changed forever and our family was forced to flee our Cuban homeland. The Castro government stole our home and investment properties. My mother was widowed, with three young children, and landed in Miami with only $5 in her pocket. It was very tough at first. Sixty years later, Miami became our new home and where my children were born and raised.” GRAZIELLA RODRIGUEZ-KOHLY 4th Generation Kohly And Mother Of Manny Portuondo

1960 – 2020

The Disappearance

Inside Cuba, La Tropical is now run by the revolution. La Tropical is eventually lost, but never forgotten.

“They came at gunpoint to take the brewery. I was one of the last senior managers at the brewery that day and was forced to hand over the keys. They knew about managing a brewery, what I knew about going to the moon.”

JULIO FERNANDEZ-SELLES Last Master Brewer Of Cervecería La Tropical (Pre-Revolution) 1917-2002

In 1998, The Comeback Begins…

Manny Portuondo, great-great grandson of Federico Kohly makes it his passion project in life to bring La Tropical back. At the age of 32, after a successful career with Anheuser-Busch and the Brahma Brewery of Brazil, he mortgages his home and raises capital from the prominent Cuban American community in Miami, including Ramon Blanco-Herrera.Three Palms Holdings is formed and for two decades Manny Portuondo fights to secure control of the La Tropical brand in key markets throughout the world.

“In my early 30s, I entered a phase where I longed to learn more about where I came from and how my family got to the United States of America. I became fascinated with my family’s past and the La Tropical story in particular. Not long after, I decided to do something about it and fight back.” MANNY PORTUONDO 5th Generation Kohly, Founder Of Three Palms Holdings & CEO Of Cervecería La Tropical

In 2016 La Tropical hosts a teaser beer launch in the heart of Miami under license with the Boston Beer Company. The launch is a great success with customers lining up for hours to taste the original recipe of La Tropical’s award-winning La Original Ambar Lager at a local Wynwood brewery. Very quickly, La Tropical becomes a best seller. La Tropical generates local and international attention that leads to interest from many of the world’s largest brewers.

After two decades of fighting to save La Tropical, Three Palms Holdings completes the majority sale of La Tropical brand to Heineken NV. With no physical brewery, Heineken makes a significant investment to build a Miami home for Cervecería La Tropical. Scouting begins for the perfect site. A ¾ acre site in the Wynwood Arts District is acquired and construction begins in 2019 to include a 32 thousand hectoliter per year brewery, tap room, restaurant and beer garden. A true destination brewery for beverage consumers everywhere.

Cervecería La Tropical has a new Miami home, a testament to perseverance, passion, hard work and the belief that all is possible if you dare to make your dreams come true. Over a century in the making, and inspired by the tropics, Cuba’s Oldest Brewery is now one of Miami’s Youngest.

Manager Mike was happy to give me a tour of the place which included the brewery and the tropical garden (which is an extension of the Fairchild Tropical Gardens I learned). Tropical trees such as guava and herbs can be found in the gardens and are labeled with each tree or bush’s description and a QR Code to hover over to learn even more. He informed me that Chef Cindy Hutson was expecting me and was preparing to have a number of their popular dishes brought out for me to try. Funny thing is I have been following Chef Cindy for years. I first heard about her work at Orantanique on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables (which sadly closed this location after 21 years in business.) I was super excited to finally meet this chef who I have the utmost respect and admiration for. First up on the tasting menu was my choice of beer. Whenever I see a “Sour” on the menu, this is my go-to. I ordered the Dulce Sour and got to choose a flavor to infuse it with; I went with my server Brittany’s suggestion, guava, and man o man, was this beer ever so refreshing, it really hit the spot. So much so, that even though I had only intended to consume one, I just had to have another.

Cervecercia just began offering brunch on Sat, Oct 1st and this was only their second day when I came that Sunday. They had a live band that was setting up to go on at 1pm. They have a weekly live music line up which can be viewed on their website. Live bands throughout the week nights and during Sunday Brunch from 1 -4pm.

First dish brought out for me to try was a sample size portion of their popular guava and cream cheese French Toast with vanilla bean cream cheese drizzle and blood orange maple syrup and guava compound butter. Went terrific with my guava sour beer! (If you like guava like I do, you will love this place as guava makes its appearance throughout the menu.) I think this might have been my favorite dish of the afternoon.

Next, came the Caribbean Avocado Toast. This was a very unique version of an avocado toast. It came with toasted pepita seeds, charred shishito peppers, tomato marmalade, cojita cheese and topped with a soft cooked egg. I really enjoyed the flavor profiles and they combined perfectly to create a balanced bite. It was a little top heavy for the bread though, so it became a little soggy and a little messy as a result.

Next came the Harnish de Maiz con Queso – Cheesy Grits…(again, the pic below is a smaller portion than what is typically served). This one pot wonder consisted of chorizo sausage, onions, peppers, and served with a side of Cuban toast for mopping up all the deliciousness.

Something on the menu caught my eye. It was “woo aioli”. I asked Brittany what was this and she brought me out some plantain chips with a side of this secret sauce. It way yummy. I could have ingested a whole container of this stuff . LOL

My final two tastings were the Ham Croqueta and the Cuban Sandwich Empanada. Both were very tasty and I can see why they are crowd pleasers.

Manager Michael Moss was most accommodating. He is pretty new to the Cerveceria La Tropical team but not new at all to the restaurant business. He had recently joined the team having been with a large restaurant group for many years prior.

Brittany, my server was so cute and super helpful.

It was so great to finally meet Chef Cindy in person. She is so creative. Super talented chef!!!

There is a $10 cover to enter on the weeknights there is a live band performing, but that fee also includes one complimentary cocktail that will be served inside the “Birdcage” as guests enter on the right.

Cerveceria La Tropical is an ideal spot for casual dining for brunch, lunch and dinner and is a perfect venue for group events too!

They are closed on Mondays and are open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 4PM-11PM, (Kitchen until 10PM)

Friday: 12PM-1AM, Kitchen until midnight (limited menu past 10PM)

Saturday: 11:30AM-1AM, Kitchen until midnight (limited menu past 10PM)

Sunday: 11:30AM-10PM, Kitchen until 9PM

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Cuba’s Oldest Brewery Is Now One of Miami’s Youngest…Cerveceria La Tropical appeared first on Savor Our City.

I know it’s been a while since my last blog post and I do apologize for that but we have been super busy the last few months with several group bookings in both South and Central FL. It appears that many companies that had to postpone their travel plans have now been given the green light to take their teams out and for many of them who have been working remotely for the past two years, this is their first opportunity to bring their remote staff together for some team bonding/building activities which they are booking like crazy right now. The size of the groups that are being booked now, as compared to prior to the breakout in 2020 has increased quite considerably. Up until 2020, the average size group was around 20 people. Now the average is 40+.

At any rate, I happened to see a post on my Instagram feed highlighting this place called Cerveceria La Tropical nestled in an Oasis nestled in Wynwood and it definitely caught my eye. So much so, that I reached out to them and scheduled a visit to check them out. Not only so that I can share my find with you, but so I could hopefully plan some fun events there for my groups. Gloria, the Event Manager was off on this particular Sunday when I arrived, so she arranged for me to meet with Mike, one of the restaurant managers on duty on this day. I drove down from Boca and soon after I arrived, I met Mike who was expecting me. We bumped into Gloria of all people, who came on her day off with her family, to celebrate her birthday (now that sure is a testimonial to how much she loves this place!)

Cerveceria La Tropical is a “Tank to Glass” concept where they pour their brewed-in-house beers right from the tanks in the main dining room that also happens to have a great back story.  On July 21, 1888 The Blanco-Herrera family establishes Cervecería La Tropical on (Cuban) lands once owned by Federico Kohly. Cuba’s Oldest Brewery grows and grows, and by 1958 La Tropical accounts for over 60% of all beer production in Cuba, making the brand world-renowned. La Tropical stands alongside cigars, rum and music as the pride of Cuba.

“La Tropical founded the Cuban beer industry. La Tropical comprised acre upon acre of a brewery, tropical gardens and a baseball stadium, whose in-field sand was made of crushed La Tropical bottles. There were many owners, but my family held majority ownership. As a kid, I loved going to the brewery with my father. I can still smell the sweet and thick malty scent coming from the brewery.” RAMON BLANCO-HERRERA 4th Generation La Tropical Family Member

In 1896 Florida’s First Brewery is founded in Ybor City/Tampa, Florida, by Cuban cigar industrialist family: Martinez-Ybor. In 1897 La Tropical beer is produced and distributed in Florida. The Florida La Tropical brand has an affiliation with the La Tropical brand from Cuba. In the early 1900’s La Tropical in Ybor City produced 80,000 barrels of beer at its’ peak. The Cuban embargo and new Florida competition from Anheuser Busch and Schlitz forced the shutdown of the brewery in 1961. Dale Swope, a Tampa attorney, acquires the old La Tropical brewery in Ybor City in 1999 and embarks on a historical preservation project to save the building after years of neglect.

in 1904 The La Tropical beer gardens are opened, near the banks of the Almendares River, and quickly become a must-go destination for cold cerveza, fun, music and dance. Designed by Cuban architect Ramón Magriñá, the gardens were inspired by the Spanish gardens of Gaudí. Los Jardines de La Tropical included a botanical Tropical garden with a multitude of concrete structures designed in a modernist and organic style, as well as a replica castle of the Alhambra de Granada in Spain.

SYLVIA MUÑIZ DE MURAI

Daughter Of La Tropical General Manager In Cuba (1922-2016)

“My father was the General Manager of the brewery and we lived in an exquisite castle within Los Jardines de La Tropical. They were the happiest days of my childhood.”

1960 marks the arrival of the revolution in Cuba begins and La Tropical’s assets are seized. The Cuban exodus begins and over one million Cubans flee the island, including the now impoverished Blanco-Herrera and Kohly families. Miami welcomes them with open arms.

“It was Christmas Eve, December 24, 1960, when our world changed forever and our family was forced to flee our Cuban homeland. The Castro government stole our home and investment properties. My mother was widowed, with three young children, and landed in Miami with only $5 in her pocket. It was very tough at first. Sixty years later, Miami became our new home and where my children were born and raised.” GRAZIELLA RODRIGUEZ-KOHLY 4th Generation Kohly And Mother Of Manny Portuondo

1960 – 2020

The Disappearance

Inside Cuba, La Tropical is now run by the revolution. La Tropical is eventually lost, but never forgotten.

“They came at gunpoint to take the brewery. I was one of the last senior managers at the brewery that day and was forced to hand over the keys. They knew about managing a brewery, what I knew about going to the moon.”

JULIO FERNANDEZ-SELLES Last Master Brewer Of Cervecería La Tropical (Pre-Revolution) 1917-2002

In 1998, The Comeback Begins…

Manny Portuondo, great-great grandson of Federico Kohly makes it his passion project in life to bring La Tropical back. At the age of 32, after a successful career with Anheuser-Busch and the Brahma Brewery of Brazil, he mortgages his home and raises capital from the prominent Cuban American community in Miami, including Ramon Blanco-Herrera.Three Palms Holdings is formed and for two decades Manny Portuondo fights to secure control of the La Tropical brand in key markets throughout the world.

“In my early 30s, I entered a phase where I longed to learn more about where I came from and how my family got to the United States of America. I became fascinated with my family’s past and the La Tropical story in particular. Not long after, I decided to do something about it and fight back.” MANNY PORTUONDO 5th Generation Kohly, Founder Of Three Palms Holdings & CEO Of Cervecería La Tropical

In 2016 La Tropical hosts a teaser beer launch in the heart of Miami under license with the Boston Beer Company. The launch is a great success with customers lining up for hours to taste the original recipe of La Tropical’s award-winning La Original Ambar Lager at a local Wynwood brewery. Very quickly, La Tropical becomes a best seller. La Tropical generates local and international attention that leads to interest from many of the world’s largest brewers.

After two decades of fighting to save La Tropical, Three Palms Holdings completes the majority sale of La Tropical brand to Heineken NV. With no physical brewery, Heineken makes a significant investment to build a Miami home for Cervecería La Tropical. Scouting begins for the perfect site. A ¾ acre site in the Wynwood Arts District is acquired and construction begins in 2019 to include a 32 thousand hectoliter per year brewery, tap room, restaurant and beer garden. A true destination brewery for beverage consumers everywhere.

Cervecería La Tropical has a new Miami home, a testament to perseverance, passion, hard work and the belief that all is possible if you dare to make your dreams come true. Over a century in the making, and inspired by the tropics, Cuba’s Oldest Brewery is now one of Miami’s Youngest.

Manager Mike was happy to give me a tour of the place which included the brewery and the tropical garden (which is an extension of the Fairchild Tropical Gardens I learned). Tropical trees such as guava and herbs can be found in the gardens and are labeled with each tree or bush’s description and a QR Code to hover over to learn even more. He informed me that Chef Cindy Hutson was expecting me and was preparing to have a number of their popular dishes brought out for me to try. Funny thing is I have been following Chef Cindy for years. I first heard about her work at Orantanique on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables (which sadly closed this location after 21 years in business.) I was super excited to finally meet this chef who I have the utmost respect and admiration for. First up on the tasting menu was my choice of beer. Whenever I see a “Sour” on the menu, this is my go-to. I ordered the Dulce Sour and got to choose a flavor to infuse it with; I went with my server Brittany’s suggestion, guava, and man o man, was this beer ever so refreshing, it really hit the spot. So much so, that even though I had only intended to consume one, I just had to have another.

Cervecercia just began offering brunch on Sat, Oct 1st and this was only their second day when I came that Sunday. They had a live band that was setting up to go on at 1pm. They have a weekly live music line up which can be viewed on their website. Live bands throughout the week nights and during Sunday Brunch from 1 -4pm.

First dish brought out for me to try was a sample size portion of their popular guava and cream cheese French Toast with vanilla bean cream cheese drizzle and blood orange maple syrup and guava compound butter. Went terrific with my guava sour beer! (If you like guava like I do, you will love this place as guava makes its appearance throughout the menu.) I think this might have been my favorite dish of the afternoon.

Next, came the Caribbean Avocado Toast. This was a very unique version of an avocado toast. It came with toasted pepita seeds, charred shishito peppers, tomato marmalade, cojita cheese and topped with a soft cooked egg. I really enjoyed the flavor profiles and they combined perfectly to create a balanced bite. It was a little top heavy for the bread though, so it became a little soggy and a little messy as a result.

Next came the Harnish de Maiz con Queso – Cheesy Grits…(again, the pic below is a smaller portion than what is typically served). This one pot wonder consisted of chorizo sausage, onions, peppers, and served with a side of Cuban toast for mopping up all the deliciousness.

Something on the menu caught my eye. It was “woo aioli”. I asked Brittany what was this and she brought me out some plantain chips with a side of this secret sauce. It way yummy. I could have ingested a whole container of this stuff . LOLMy final two tastings were the Ham Croqueta and the Cuban Sandwich Empanada. Both were very tasty and I can see why they are crowd pleasers.

Manager Michael Moss was most accommodating. He is pretty new to the Cerveceria La Tropical team but not new at all to the restaurant business. He had recently joined the team having been with a large restaurant group for many years prior.

Brittany, my server was so cute and super helpful.

It was so great to finally meet Chef Cindy in person. She is so creative. Super talented chef!!!

There is a $10 cover to enter on the weeknights there is a live band performing, but that fee also includes one complimentary cocktail that will be served inside the “Birdcage” as guests enter on the right.

Cerveceria La Tropical is an ideal spot for casual dining for brunch, lunch and dinner and is a perfect venue for group events too!

They are closed on Mondays and are open Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 4PM-11PM, (Kitchen until 10PM)

Friday: 12PM-1AM, Kitchen until midnight (limited menu past 10PM)

Saturday: 11:30AM-1AM, Kitchen until midnight (limited menu past 10PM)

Sunday: 11:30AM-10PM, Kitchen until 9PM

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Cuba’s Oldest Brewery Is Now One of Miami’s Youngest…Cerveceria La Tropical appeared first on Savor Our City.

I was invited back to Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar, in Delray Beach for the recent launch of their new seasonal menu and to try out some brand new additions to the menu spearheaded by their new Executive Chef Amit Jain.

Their new fall menu features an assortment of seasonal dishes including new additions such as Vegan/Vegetarian, Gluten Free Farm-To-Table Dishes, refreshing cocktails and over 40 wines available by the glass available throughout the fall season.  As the seasons change, you can always look forward to a bountiful new menu at Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar. The fall menu features dishes that use local, seasonal ingredients resulting in the freshest, tastiest, most nutritious meals possible in a celebration of autumnal produce. Enjoy flavorful new flatbreads, salads, entrees and more –with plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options now available. Fall menu highlights include: Plant-Based Spicy “Chorizo” Flatbread bell pepper, kalamata olive, micro basil, vegan mozzarella Kennet Square Mushroom “Cheesesteak” sharp provolone, roasted bell pepper, caramelized onion, pickled banana pepper, hoagie roll Pasta-less Vegetable Lasagna butternut squash, horseradish-pumpkin seed pesto, macadamia nut “ricotta”, spinach, tomato sauce, vegan mozzarella, crispy plantain Seared Everything-Spiced Ahi Tuna orange soy-glazed carrot, wild rice, snow pea, winter radish Butternut Squash Soup toasted pumpkin seed, local honey Grass-Fed Bison Burger baby Swiss, shiitake mushroom, truffle aioli, fresh poppy seed onion roll Pumpkin Ravioli butternut squash purée, sage brown butter, dried cranberry, baby spinach, toasted pumpkin seed, gingerbread dust Impossible Meatloaf celery root purée, sweet & spicy ketchup glaze, roasted sweet potato, haricot vert.

My companion and I were seated in Jake’s section again, who was our wonderful server from our visit last Fall. You can read about that post here. My companion enjoyed the wine that Jake had recommended so much on our last visit that she ordered it again. Involuntary Commitment Cab Franc. Me? I went with one of their Fall specialty cocktails, the Apple Martini. The apple slice garnish was not only pretty but soaked up all the deliciousness that lay underneath.

For Chef Amit Jain, a perfect meal at Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar begins with a flatbread. The Palm Beach County native, who has been working in restaurants since he was a young boy, knows good food when he sees it. Born in Freeport, Bahamas, Jain moved to Wellington, Floridawith his family early into his childhood, a place where he would eventually begin his career and find his calling. Some might call the westside city “rural” but for Jain it formed his love of animals while working and living on a farm, and is a reason why Harvest’s menu, with ingredients always sourced from responsible farmers, fisheries and butcheries, speaks to him. A graduate of Florida Atlantic University withprevious stints in notable establishments including Palm Beach’s Table 26 and Todd’s by Todd English,Jain has cooked for the likes of former President Bill Clinton, Michael Jordan, Bill Gates, Alan Jackson and more. Yet, the now Boynton Beach resident feels most at home as Executive Chef at Harvestwhere he says he wants to help continue to create a space where everyone is welcomed.“Organic, hormone-free, all-natural, and grass-fed all add to the uniqueness of our menu,” says Chef Jain. “We support all local businesses that provide sustainable clean products that we can share with our guests under the motto “Farm to Table for everyone”.Today, Jain and his wife, Brooke, along with their two children, Willow and Rowan, live amongst 10 horses, three barn cats, two dogs and a potbelly pig named Pirate on their ranch. When he’s not in the kitchen, Jain can be found working on the farm. Next up is a move to add hens to their clan for fresh eggs as well as plant vegetables to sustain their family meals and guests

Harvest Seasonal Grill is a Pennsylvania-born harvest-centric eatery and wine bar. The farm-to-table concept offers a mostly under 500 calorie, seasonally-changing, local menu; 50+ wines by the glass; seasonal cocktails and local beer; along with eco-friendly décor, a patio, bar dining and private dining

Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar: Delray Place, 1841 S. Federal Hwy. #402, Delray Beach, FL 33483. (561) 266-3239

So in closing, if you are hankering for some good healthy farm to table fare that changes seasonally, be sure to get yourself over to Harvest Seasonal Grill. You are sure to find many items to please your palate just as we did.

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar Debuts Festive New Fall Menu appeared first on Savor Our City.

Savor Our City was recently invited to attend a media dinner at 26 Sushi & Tapas in Surfside for the launch their new menu.

Since 2014, 26 Sushi & Tapas has been and remains one of the Miami dining scene’s best kept secrets. This unique Latin-Asian fusion eatery is 100% certified Kosher, serving the vibrant, flavorful Japanese-Peruvian cuisine known as Nikkei. But those in the know – kosher or otherwise – have embraced the restaurant for its casually chic ambiance, wallet-friendly pricing and delicious cuisine. Now, with newly-appointed Chef Miguel Gomez at the helm, the restaurant is unveiling a refreshed menu featuring creative additions to abundant offerings.

“The goal with 26 was to go beyond what many think of as ‘kosher food,’” says owner Morris Kaplan. “We wanted to provide something exciting and different to that community but also deliver a compelling and delicious menu for everyone. We’re excited about the new menu and hope it keeps our loyal fans engaged and gives folks who never gave us a try a great reason to come in.” 

The menu remains vast, offering plenty to explore and countless ways to mix & match to create a unique, immersive experience for each diner. Signature favorites – like the Nitro “Scallops” made from tempura battered scallops, rocoto aioli, sweet sauce,mixed greens and sesame seeds. Corvina Lettuce Wraps, made with Flounder tempura, Asian slaw, cashew pistachio crumble and aji amarillo aioli. Both of these items were extremely tasty, crowd pleasers for sure!

Tuna Tower and Truffle Tiradito – remain. They’ve been huge sellers for years and are going nowhere. Joining them on the playing field are their new hot and cold tapas including: Causa Krab Tower – cold, savory potato layer cake typical in traditional Peruvian cuisine, served with Krab salad and fresh avocado;

Nikkei Tuna Salad with fresh greens, enoki mushroom, carrot, and tri-colored peppers tossed in ponzu sauce and topped with sesame seeds; and Nao Ceviche Ball – traditional Corvina ceviche cured in a house-made leche de tigre, red onion, lime juice and aji limon then tempura battered with panko and deep fried. This was a really unique dish and fun to eat too!

Also debuting, several new sushi additions including the Nigiri 5-star – Chef’s choice of five nigiri selections served atop sushi rice;

Tropical Roll – tuna, salmon, kiwi, guava and dynamite sauce topped with tuna and rocoto aioli;

Crispy Kani Roll – soy paper, plantains, avocado, scallions and cream cheese topped with Krab tempura, masago and curry aioli; Sandra Roll – a rice-less roll with Krab salad, avocado, cream cheese, and tempura topped with fresh tuna; and the Acevichado Roll – Whitefish tempura, sweet potato and avocado topped with Corvina ceviche. A word to the wise – the new rolls may be amazing but you would be missing out BIG TIME if you didn’t have their popular Maduros con Coco Roll – flounder tempura, avocado and cream cheese topped with sweet fried plantains and coconut flakes – Just order it, you’ll thank me later!

Two unusual offerings worth a try: Sushi Burritos, which come in two styles – the Saltarito with sautéed salmon, fried egg, plantains, French fries and guacamole and the Three Amigos – fresh raw tuna, salmon and Hamachi with guacamole, scallions and a chimichurri ponzu – and the new Sushi Sandwich. Meant to be eaten with the hands, it consists of salmon, mango, avocado, scallion and dynamite sauce, layered between “slices” of pressed rice, served with guava dipping sauce. 

New larger plates include Branzino Livornese – fresh Branzino filet served on a pool of fragrant Livornese sauce of capers, Kalamata olives, garlic and cherry tomatoes, dressed with house-made shakshuka and served with potato wedges; Tuna Kovi, sesame-crusted, seared tuna served on a bed of quinoa risotto huancaina, topped with pico de gallo and a balsamic reduction; and a sweet & sour Red Snapper, grilled and served with grilled vegetables and rustic mashed potatoes.

The restaurant’s vibrant desserts have also received a seasonal upgrade; not to be missed offerings include a fresh Strawberry Pavlova served with whipped cream and the sinfully creamy Goat Cheese Ice Cream.

Apart from updated summer offerings, 26 Sushi & Tapas also boasts an impressive, four-hour long Happy Hour available Sunday through Thursday from 5PM-9PM. The Surfside mainstay has updated their Happy Hour food selection to include several Tapas-style items priced between $6 and $8 dollars. Guests 21 and over can enjoy 2-for-1 drink specials depending on the day:

• Sunday: “Sunday Funday” – 2-for-1 Mimosas (available all day)
• Monday: “Mojito Monday” – 2-for-1 Mojitos
• Tuesday: “Tequila Tuesday” – 2-for-1 Tequila cocktails
• Wednesday: “Watermelon Wednesday” – 2-for-1 Watermelon Elyx cocktails
• Thursday: “Whiskey Thursday” – 2-for-1 Whiskey cocktails

Looking to spice up your next soiree or corporate event? As a premiere service caterer, diners can bring the 26 Sushi & Tapas experience to any home, office, or event space. The restaurant’s versatile catering menu offers a wide variety of crowd-pleasing options and can accommodate special ordering requests allowing guests to customize menus that make the most of an event and reach budgeting goals. For more information, contact Natalia Suarez at (305) 570-2626 or email her at nsuarez@26sushitapas.com. 

26 Sushi & Tapas is located at 9487 Harding Avenue in Surfside, FL. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Sunday through Thursday: 9AM-10:15PM; Friday: 9AM-2:30PM (closed for Shabbat) and Saturday: 9:15PM-11:45PM. Happy Hour is available Sunday through Thursday from 5PM to 9PM. Follow 26 Sushi & Tapas on Instagram: @26Sushi_Tapas and Facebook: @26SushiTapas; Telephone: (305) 570-2626; http://www.26sushitapas.com/

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post MAKE WAY FOR NIKKEI! SURFSIDE’S 26 SUSHI & TAPAS INTRODUCES NEW MENU appeared first on Savor Our City.

On a recent trip to Orlando to further my education in my Wines for Humanity business and to scout out restaurants for our new culinary tours soon to be offered up there, I was invited as a member of the press to dine at Cuba Libre who just so happened to be launching a new menu the night of my arrival into town.

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar, located in Pointe Orlando on International Drive, announces its new menu, which debuted yesterday May 3rd, featuring 12 brand new classic and contemporary Cuban dinner items by Chef-Partner Guillermo Pernot, inspired by his bi-annual culinary travels to Cuba. The menu overhaul includes creative appetizers, entrees, and hand-crafted cocktails. In celebration of the popular restaurant’s extensive menu release, Cuba Libre is offering a complimentary glass of its signature red or white sangria to any guest dining at the restaurant for dinner between May 3rd and May 10th, with the purchase of an entrée. Guests must mention the free sangria promotion to their server in order to receive the complimentary item.

“I’m thrilled to introduce so many new flavorful, unique, and authentically Cuban items to Cuba Libre’s menus,” said Chef Pernot. “While many menu favorites remain, our 12 new dishes range from impressive platters for two, to trendy items with a Cuban twist, and tapas recipes passed down for generations, and I believe that our guests, both new and recurring, will absolutely love the new additions.”

The Cuban restaurant’s new menu features 50-60% new items including several massive meat entrees for two, such as the Crispy Pork Pata, a 48-hour slow-cooked Berkshire pork shank, served with grilled seasonal vegetables and Moros y Cristianos, in a citrus pan reduction; and the Ribeye Jibaro “Doble,” a 32 oz. salmuera-rubbed bone-in rib-eye steak, served with “boniato bravas” and grilled broccolini. Notable dishes in the new “Latin Steaks and Chops” section include the Vacio Steak Argentino, grilled Argentine-cut bavette steak, with Moros y Cristianos and tostones, and Argentinean chimichurri; and the Puerco Cha Cha Cha, three pork favorites in one jumbo cut: a bone-in loin chop with meaty rib and crisp pork belly, with “boniato bravas” and charred herb salsa, and chipotle allioli. A tropical seafood dish, the Pargo Frito, has also been added – crispy whole red snapper, coconut basmati rice and candied cashews, with a sprouts salad and mango red curry sauce.

Cuba Libre has also added a number of new appetizers based on traditional Cuban recipes, like the Chicken Croquetas, Crab Guacamole, Albóndigas Cubanas (or Cuban meatballs), and Octopus a la Parrilla. Guests are sure to be impressed with innovative menu items like the Cuban Sandwich Spring Rolls, and a Cuban twist on the current poke trend, Chef Pernot’s Cuban Poke – marinated seasonal fish, compressed watermelon and English cucumbers, pickled seaweed, avocado, white rice and toasted macadamia nuts, with pumpkin seed oil vinaigrette. An effervescent new hand-crafted cocktail, the Second Street 75, made with Macchu Pisco, simple syrup, lemon juice and sparkling wine, makes for the perfect pairing for the new dinner menu.

My server on this evening was James who provided me the most attentive and friendly service I have had in a long time.  I asked James for some recommendations and he did not hesitate for a moment when he recommended I try the new Crab Guacamole. The plantain chips were phenomenal – so fresh and uniquely shaped, perfect for scooping up the guac. I loved both the sweetness that the grilled golden pineapple provided and the generous chunks of blue crab meat in this dish. This was a winner for sure. Off to a great start.

I washed that down with their Classic Mojito made with Pyrat Rum. Next up, I tried the Octopus a la Parilla. I have had octopus many a time, but I had never been served baby octopus apparently…until now. Wow was this ever different and so tasty.  The description read truffle, another favorite of mine, but I’m sorry to say that I just didn’t detect the truffle, but I did discover some heat in the smoked potato crema from the Spanish paprika. I liked this dish very much.

Another new menu item I got to try was the Cuban Poke. Tonight’s fish was ahi tuna. A couple things I really enjoyed about this dish was how the compressed watermelon both blended in and resembled the tuna in shape and color and also how it complemented all the flavors in this bowl; toasted macadamia nuts, pickled seaweed, white rice, avocado, English cucumbers and pumpkin seed vinaigrette. Well composed dish.

As my stomach was beginning to get full, a duo of steaks appeared before me. From the existing menu I tried the Churrasco a la Cubano and from the new menu, the Vacio Steak Argentino.  This was a grilled Argentine-cut bavette steak served with chimichurri, tostone and Moros y Cristianos (rice & beans). They were both terrific but I have to say that the Vacio edged out the other one by a slight margin in my book. Cooked to a perfect medium rare, the flavors were incredible. The steak melted like butter in my mouth. De-lish!

For dessert, I was presented a lovely tray of minis from which I chose the flan. But before I could dig in, I was presented with this lovely box which to select my eating utensil.

I am so excited that I got to try Cuba Libre while in Orlando and am super excited for the opportunity to work with them on some future groups. If you are traveling to the Orlando area, be sure to make this a stop on your culinary adventures.

About Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar in Orlando serves dinner daily from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m.  Happy Hour is available every day from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.  The bar is open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.  For more information, or to make a reservation, please call (407) 226-1600, visit www.cubalibrerestaurant.com, follow them on Twitter (@CubaLibreORL) or Instagram (@CubaLibreRestaurant) and “like” them on Facebook.

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Cuba Libre, Pointe Orlando appeared first on Savor Our City.

I had the opportunity to attend a blogger event at Saquella recently to be introduced to some new items that are being added to their menu so I can share them with you.

As many of you know, I spend a lot of time in the Downtown Boca area, particularly in Royal Palm Place and Mizner Park where I conduct my culinary tours. Saquella, located in Royal Palm Place, is the go-to-place for friends to gather for coffee and breakfast and a leader in the culinary scene here in Boca since they opened their doors back in 2005.  They are recognized as a leader because of their philosophy which has been from the start and continues to be that they are always looking for new ways to innovate and evolve.

When Saquella first opened, the concentration was on their superior blends of coffee, innovative drinks and highly skilled baristas. They prided themselves on this and created the tagline, “Your First Cup of Coffee & Much More…” 12 years later, they have evolved into a full service breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner restaurant. While still providing the same quality drinks that they became known for, they are getting the word out that they are so much more. While Saquella has always been farm to table long before that name became in vogue, they developed a new tagline to better reflect the Cafe’s evolution and current offerings, “Scratch Kitchen & Bake Shop…”

Saquella has always drawn an International clientele and has become a landmark at the plaza, along with its neighbor across from them, Biergarten Boca.  There’s a good chance if you live in Boca or travel to this area that you’ve been to Saquella, but what you many not know is that they are open for dinner and they have a full liquor license. Yep, you heard (well, technically read, correct).  Myself and my fellow food bloggers were treated to several dishes prepared by Saquella’s Executive Chef Dave Fogel.

To get the night started off, we were each served a Cran Martini. It felt like we were celebrating Thanksgiving for a moment. What a lovely hue of red and what a novel idea of serving fresh cranberries in a cocktail in the Spring.  I loved the tartness that the fresh cranberries provided. This martini drank like a Cosmo. I would highly recommend it.

The above dishes were not only gorgeous to look at and photograph, but each and every one of them was incredibly flavorful. I enjoyed them all. They all make for great sharing plates. The Shakshuka had melted mozzarella, which is something owner Avi had decided to add and boy are we glad he did. This addition took an already pretty awesome dish and elevated it to the next level Yum!

Again, aren’t these plates just gorgeous? The Sunflower seed crusted chicken was cooked to perfection and topped with an Ammoglio, an Italian version of salsa which was drizzled with a garlic confit. The Quinoa Crusted was delicious as was the beet purée found underneath. The short ribs had been cooked for 6 hours which imparted an amazing flavor and were fork tender.  The asparagus asiago risotto was cooked to perfection and wonderful!

Peach Cobbler French Toast made with Challah bread with peaches baked into the bread

Saquella is open 7 days a week, Mon – Sat 7am – 10pm & Sun 10am – 4pm.

They are located in Royal Palm Place, 410 Via De Palmas, Boca Raton. You can visit their website or call (561) 338-8840.

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Saquella Cafe…more than just great coffee, breakfast & lunch! appeared first on Savor Our City.

It’s been a busy week for this Foodie Girl. Kicking the week off with Temper Grille followed by a wonderful tasting at Harvest Seasonal Grill set up for me by the company’s PR firm. I was super excited to finally make it in there after passing by it a gazillion times on my way from Boca to Delray to conduct my tours and then after meeting Reba, Harvest’s Marketing & Events Manager at the Flavors event last month.

Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar, a seasonally changing, farm to table concept serving wood fired steak, poultry, seafood, vegetarian and gluten free dishes offering guests locally-grown options typically under 500 calories.

The upscale-casual restaurant, whose mantra “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food” is apparent in every detail, has vowed to change its offerings with the seasons (every three months), with menu items reflective of the time of year and produce available. The day of my visit was the first day the Spring Menu was being rolled out. Since opening in the Fall, Harvest has had a slight menu change for winter, but nothing like the overhaul of this new Spring menu I was told, where a good majority of the items have changed. That’s good for most and harder to accept by some who are sorry to see their favorites no longer on the current menu. I have a feeling though that those who are busy mourning the loss of their faves, will soon find new ones to enjoy and before long, their old faves will be back in season. I personally love the idea of keeping menus rotating, keeping them fresh with whatever bounty the current season has to offer, so kudos to Harvest Seasonal Grill for introducing this fresh new concept. Their awesome menu features mostly 500-calorie or fewer dishes, seasonally changing options that are made using the freshest ingredients around, and sourced from the 75 local farmers the eatery works with. Amongst them is Swank Farm and those who follow me know I love Swank Farm and their series of Farm-to-Table SWANK Table events.

Harvest Seasonal Grill accommodates a vast range of dietary needs with allergy-friendly and gluten-free concessions, vegan items and dairy-free offerings. Additionally, they offer an extensive menu of organic wines by the glass, along with craft-brewed draft beers, and a cocktail menu boasting seasonally rotating libations made with fresh fruits and herbs. Reba had suggested we try a flight of their Sangrias. Always open for suggestions, I said sure and before long these two beauties were placed in front of us. I started with the White one and it was not your typical white wine Sangria. Very pleasant. I liked it. Then I made my way over to the Rose one. I have to admit, I never had a Rose Sangria before. White ones and Red ones, but never any Rose…until now. Folks, I can’t express in words how DELICIOUS this one was. You’re just gonna have to trust me on this and go in and try it out for yourself. Period, end of story, lol!

I fell in love with the calamari. Don’t let the word “spicy” in the title deter you from trying this dish if you are sensitive to heat. Just ask them to go light on the spice. That way they can adjust it so that it is very subtle. The white wine and lemon juice broth it comes with is soooooo good!!! The calamari were cooked perfectly and I love the healthier presentation to frying. The tuna poke was good, but not my favorite; I think it was the texture of the sweet & sour cucumber dressing that threw me. I had to dig a little to find the avocado in the Avocado & Artichoke Dip. But the flavors were nice and once I found the avocado, I was happy. I thought the herbed Naan chips were really unique and a nice flavorful accompaniment. The Pesto Caprese Flatbread was so light and packed with fresh herbs. I loved the crispiness of the flatbread and the flavor combination. This one was a winner for sure!

So I ordered the Cedar Plank Salmon and it was delicious. I really enjoyed the Paddi Pan (green squash) too. My dining companion ordered the BBQ Braised Short Rib and when I asked him what he thought, he said that it tasted like meatloaf. Meatloaf?!? So I reached over with my fork to give it a try. Well I’ll be darned, the bbq sauce did resemble the old school sauce that topped many a meatloaf back in the day. Sauce aside, the short rib was slow cooked and very tasty all on its own.

With so many wonderful selections, I chose the Chocolate Salted Caramel Mousse. This did not disappoint!

This popular farm-to-table eatery and wine bar may be new to Florida (we got lucky that they chose Delray Beach the place to open their first one in FL), but they have been wildly successful in other parts of the country with six other locations including four in PA (where the company is based) and one in NJ. For exact locations, click here.

Seasonally-changing menus are conceptualized by Corporate Executive Chef Joshua N. Short, who offers over ten years of culinary experience to the Harvest team, holding prior positions as a Sous Chef with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts and Executive Chef with The JDK Group. Every dish served at Harvest’s Delray Beach location is executed to perfection by their culinary team, headed by Co-Executive Chefs Bill Ring (formerly of 32 East) and Chef Jeremy Hanson (previously at The Seagate), who work alongside local farmers to highlight the best and brightest flavors each season has to offer.

Harvest Seasonal Grill’s use of sustainable, organic and healthy ingredients doesn’t end with the menu. A truly green concept, the eatery not only features recycled glass bar tops and a beautiful exterior living wall, but also uses all organic cleaning products, recycled paper products and eco-friendly ink on their menus.

Harvest Seasonal Grill is located in the Delray Place shopping plaza at 1841 S. Federal Highway, #402, Delray Beach, FL 33483. For more information or to make a reservation, call (561) 266-3239 or visit www.harvestseasonalgrill.com.

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Harvest Seasonal Grill Introduces Seasonal, Locally Sourced Dishes appeared first on Savor Our City.

I was recently invited back to BRIO for a tasting of some new menu items and to share with you a new promotion that they have going on in all their Palm Beach County locations now through April 15th.  I’ll get to the promotion in a minute. On this particular dine, my companion and I who have eaten at BRIO on several occasions decided to start out with a “Flirty Cosmo” which is made with absolute Mandarin, pama, pomegranate liquor, fresh lime and fizz 56. It was a delicious cocktail and one we both would recommend.

We decided to try the Burrata & Ciabatta appetizer which was beautifully plated and was a wonderful combination of creamy burrata, roasted tomatoes, EVOO and grilled ciabatta for $10.95. I enjoyed building my own bruschetta by layering the tomatoes onto the ciabatta and topping with the creamy burrata. I was in heaven!

Our server Jake was a huge fan of their Brussels sprouts, claiming these are the very ones that got him to eat brussels sprouts. With a recommendation like that, how could we not try them as well? We asked him to bring us a side of these which he graciously offered to do, although now that I’m writing this, I only see it listed as a side option to their entrees. The Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts were very tasty and I would highly recommend you try them.

For entrees, my companion had the Center-Cut Filet Mignon (Comes in 6 oz. $24.75 & 8 oz. $29.50) and comes with one side. He chose the Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes. My companion ordered his steak medium rare but it came out pretty rare, so we did ask for a bump up. I would recommend ordering this steak medium. We ordered the mushroom marsala sauce to top the steak and it was a nice compliment.

For my entree, I selected the Pasta Alla Vodka. The pasta that was used for this dish, explained to me by Elvin, the GM at the Boca BRIO location, was a sacchetti, (a little purse in Italian) filled with ricotta, spicy tomato Parmesan cream sauce (not too spicy, trust me), crispy pancetta and basil for $18.95. You can opt to add a protein to this entree and the chicken I ordered really was a wonderful compliment to this very tasty dish. I would highly recommend it!

And now on to the current promotion they are running here at the Palm Beach County locations:

Present Special “A Variety of Flavors” Lunch and Dinner Menu, Available Feb. 28–April 15

BRIO Tuscan Grille is offering an array of new dishes for the “A Variety of Flavors” promotion, taking place Tuesday, Feb. 28 through Saturday, April 15.  The lunch and dinner menus present two exciting new appetizers, three entrées (including two mouthwatering seafood dishes), and a divine dessert.

“With our ‘A Variety of Flavors’ lunch and dinner menus, our guests can enjoy unique flavors with a Tuscan twist, including mouthwatering seafood dishes, for a limited time,” said BRIO Tuscan Grille Chef & Culinary Director Alison Peters.

The menus include:

Appetizers:

• Calamari Fritto Misto: Peperoncini, aioli, Pomodoro; $10.75 at lunch, $11.75 at dinner
• Spicy Shrimp & Eggplant: Pan seared shrimp, Romano crusted eggplant, black pepper cream; $11.50 at lunch, $12.50 at dinner

Entrées:

• Peroni Beer-Battered Fish & Chips: North Atlantic cod, fries, Brussels sprout slaw; $17.95 (pictured below)
• Lobster & Black Pepper Shrimp Ravioli: Spicy black pepper cream, spinach, grape tomatoes; $19.95 (pictured above)
• Braised Beef Pappardelle: Rosemary pappardelle, crimini mushrooms, roasted carrots, red onions,  tomato porcini sauce; $21.95

Dessert:

• Butterscotch Budino: Italian for “pudding,” Marcona almonds, caramel, vanilla whipped cream; $3.95

Serving as perfect complements to these special dishes are BRIO’s exquisite wine selections. Suggested wines are the light, fruity and elegant Sketchbook Pinot Noir (Mendocino, California); and the lush and silky Benziger Family Winery Chardonnay (Sonoma, California).

Guests can now make reservations online for all BRIO restaurants by visiting www.BrioItalian.com. For a list of locations, please visit www.BrioItalian.com.

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post BRIO Announces Promotion of “A Variety of Flavors” Lunch & Dinner Menu appeared first on Savor Our City.

The holidays are just around the corner and BRIO Tuscan Grille will be celebrating in a big way! From seasonal entrées and desserts to gift card incentives, there is something for everyone. BRIO is the perfect gathering spot for friends and family throughout the holiday season.

Oh what fun it will be to eat, drink and be merry at BRIO Tuscan Grille this holiday season! Following jubilant Tuscan tradition, BRIO locations in Palm Beach County will revel in the holiday spirit, welcoming guests to gather ‘round the table to indulge in special seasonal fare. In addition, BRIO is happy to “give the gift of BRIO” to its guests, with bonus gifts for guests who buy $100 in holiday gift cards.

BRIO Palm Beach County locations are at The Shops at Boca Center in Boca Raton, CityPlace in West Palm Beach, and The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens.

The restaurant just rolled out a few new delicious and indulgent holiday favorites, including a mouthwatering Broiled Main Lobster Tail with Creole Shrimp Pasta, a Surf & Turf of Beef Medallions with jumbo shrimp & Romano crusted eggplant served with white cheddar polenta and for dessert, a Chocolate Layer Cake with Candy Cane Gelato.

BRIO will also offer a two-course prix fixe menu for New Year’s Eve, starting at $29.95.

Seasonal Entrées & Desserts 

“Indulgent cuisine is one of the most exciting parts of Tuscan holiday tradition, and we at BRIO are pleased to present these seasonal dishes infused with delicious flavors,” said BRIO Culinary Director & Chef Alison Peters.

Broiled Maine Lobster Tail & Creole Shrimp Pasta with angel hair, spicy cream sauce, capers, red peppers, green onions and basil ($25.95)

Surf & Turf — Grilled-to-order beef medallions, jumbo black pepper shrimp over Romano crusted eggplant and white cheddar polenta ($28.95)

Chocolate Layer Cake with Candy Cane Gelato — Decadent chocolate cake, milk and white chocolate mousse, fudge ganache frosting and candy cane gelato ($6.95)

The perfect accompaniments to a Tuscan-style holiday meal, BRIO’s select white and red wines include the delightful Sketchbook Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendocino, California) priced at $10.95 per glass/$40 per bottle or the truly exquisite Hess Shirtail Chardonnay priced at $9.95 per glass/$38 per bottle.

–

New Year’s Eve

Guests can celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at BRIO, which will offer a two-course prix fixe menu, including one of the above entrées, along with guests’ choice of soup/salad or petite dessert, starting at $29.95.  The two-course prix fixe menu will be offered 12/30/16 to 1/2/17.

Gifts for Holiday Party Guests 

What is a holiday party without a takeaway gift? Now through Jan. 15, 2017, hosts and guests in parties of 10 or more will receive a $10 off bonus gift for a future visit to BRIO in January or February 2017. The promotion applies to parties hosted Sunday–Thursday.

Gift Card Bonus Offer

With all of the excitement the holidays bring, everyone needs to give themselves a gift! Through Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, BRIO guests who purchase $100 in BRIO gift cards will receive a $20 bonus gift, valid Jan. 1–March 15, 2017. This promotion is available at all BRIO restaurant locations and online at www.BrioItalian.com. And yet another plus — personalized BRIO gift cards and e-gifts are available!

During the holidays, reservations are highly recommended at BRIO for both private parties and individual guests. Guests can now make reservations online for all BRIO restaurants by visiting www.BrioItalian.com. For a list of locations, please visit www.BrioItalian.com.

I tasted these new featured holiday dishes (compliments of BRIO, although all opinions are my own, as always) at the BRIO located at The Shops at Boca Center, 5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 239, Boca Raton, FL 33486.

BRIO offers lunch and dinner, as well as a special children’s menu; brunch is offered Saturday and Sunday until 3:30 p.m. The 8,800-square-foot restaurant has indoor seating for 260 guests and al fresco dining for 100 on its outdoor terrace, as well as a full-service bar that seats 40. BRIO also offers a private dining area that seats 16–48 guests. The restaurant is open Sunday 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Monday–Thursday 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m. For more information, visit www.brioitalian.com. For reservations, call The Shops at Boca Center restaurant at (561) 392-3777.

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Santa Claus is Sharing Holiday Joy During Breakfasts with Santa,
Including Fun-Filled Activities, at Palm Beach County BRIO Locations in December!

Who/What:

Ho, ho, ho! Santa is making special visits to BRIO Tuscan Grille locations at CityPlace and The Gardens Mall to listen to Christmas wishes and spread holiday cheer. Guests will enjoy a delicious plated breakfast and holiday activities including face painting, holiday crafts, cookie decorating, ornament making, and Christmas carolers. Santa Claus will be visiting tables collecting wish lists, and will also take photos with guests (be sure to bring cameras!)

BRIO’s breakfast will be plentiful with delicious items for both adults and children. Choices on the adult menu include:

• Eggs, Home Fries & Bacon: Scrambled eggs, bacon, brunch potatoes and brioche toast. Turkey sausage on request.
• Berries & Cream French Toast: Honey, cinnamon, sweet cream cheese stuffed French toast, fresh berry compote, and Applewood bacon
• Sicilian Omelette: Cherrywood smoked ham, bacon, Fontanini sausage, caramelized onions, tomato compote, Mozzarella, Provolone and Parmesan cheeses. Served with brunch potatoes.
• Ham & Biscuit Benedict: Two poached cage free eggs, Cherrywood smoked ham, housemade biscuit and hollandaise. Served with brunch potatoes.

Children’s selections include Kids’ French Toast served with maple syrup and fresh fruit; and Kids’ Scrambled Eggs served with bacon and fresh fruit.

All meals include choice of coffee, tea, soft drink, milk or juice, muffins and yogurt parfait.
Reservations are required for the Breakfast with Santa events.

When/Where:           

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016

9–11 a.m.

BRIO at CityPlace

550 South Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33401

(561) 835-1511

Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016

9–11 a.m.

BRIO at The Gardens Mall

3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL  33410

(561) 622-0491

Cost:

$11.95 per adult; $5.95 per child

How:

Reservations are required. Call your local BRIO or visit www.brioitalian.com to reserve for this special Santa event!

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post BRIO’s Bringing It This Holiday Season appeared first on Savor Our City.