Thursday, October 22, 2009
Posted By:
Laine Doss
Photo:
Laine Doss
Elemental
Elemental is the kind of place that has all the cool stuff you never thought you ever needed or wanted but one you see it you gotta have it. Consider the serving bowl made out of melted plastic toy soldiers. Or the PETA-friendly wooden moose head. The items range in price from a $15 desk mood signal (I'm cranky means not a good time to ask a favor, apparently) to a $700 ostrich table. But there's something for everyone--I wish someone had given me a gold piglet bank for my wedding instead of a ridiculous selection of traditional gifts that are more for Granny than me.
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Monday, October 12, 2009
Posted By:
Laine Doss
Photo:
Laine Doss
Shark Valley
Not too many Miamians know that right in out backyard is one of the most diverse and famous ecosystems in the world--The Florida Everglades. Shark valley is part of Everglades National park and is an amazing place to get away from the hustle of everyday Miami. Admission is $10, but an annual pass is $25 and a great bargain. Shark valley boasts a 15 mile concrete loop around the everglades--a swamp land filled with alligators, egrets, hawks, and mosquitos. Lots of mosquitos--so bring OFF! You can bring a bike, rent a bike, walk as far as you want, or take the optional guided tram tour that loops the 15 miles with a stop at the observation platform at the halfway mark. You don't have to go far to see alligators--they're all over the place and sometimes will block your path so you're forced to turn around or wait them out. It's a great place to bring your camera and the best place to bring your obnoxious cousin visiting from Manhattan!
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Thursday, October 08, 2009
Posted By:
Laine Doss
Photo:
Laine Doss
Joe Allen
Where do transplanted New Yorkers go to find a home away from home in Miami Beach? Joe Allen!
Tucked away in the non-touristy West Side of Miami Beach, Joe Allen is all things Miami Beach is not--dark and traditional with service by real waiters not wanna-be models. Good reason, too because the original Joe Allen is in NY's Restaurant Row in the Theatre District. This Joe Allen stays close to the original--complete with jovial owner/host Mario, waiters who actually like being waiters, bartenders who know how to fix a smart cocktail and can recommend a good wine, and a menu of simple good American Style food that changes daily.
Joe Allen is a great place for couples or friends and is welcoming if you find yourself eating out alone--in fact the bar is usually filled single diners enjoying a good meal and a few cocktails.
Make room for dessert because the bread pudding with bubbling hot burbon sauce is to die for! Best of all? The sign in front--No strollers allowed--heaven!
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Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Posted By:
Laine Doss
Photo:
Laine Doss
AltaMar
Alta Mar, located a block west of the touristy part of Lincoln Road, is so hidden that ONLY locals know about it. It's a really small restaurant with mostly outdoor seating (if it's too hot or raining don't go), this place has only the freshest seafood locally caught and prepared with an Italian flair. I would literally kill someone for the Yellowjack with Mustard Sauce and Peppercorns. Yes, it's that good. One of the few restaurants that makes me do my Snoopy-like Happy Food Dance! There are some salads and meat dishes but why bother? A good wine selection and a full bar compliment the seafood and pad the bill. Desserts are just OK--but luckily you probably won't have room. It's not that cheap--but a great place to impress a date--two entrees and four glasses of wine will set you back about $100 before tax and tip.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Posted By:
Laine Doss
Photo:
Laine Doss
Dog Bar
"Everything you would want if you were a dog" is Dog Bar's slogan and it's true--Ed Hardy rhinestone dog shirts and collars, toys, strollers, and organic treats for the haute hound. Everything in excess for rich spoiled dogs, including raw foods, a "barkery," a beauty salon for dogs, and a large selection of outfits. Nothing says "I'm sorry I got you neutered" like a new $100 collar and some kobe beef chewies. Woof!
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