I’m a Cuban-American writer and podcaster passionate about food, wine, and travel. Follow my colorful South Florida adventures as I review Miami restaurants, and spotlight local chefs and somms. I am a Michelin dining enthusiast, but nothing is off-limits. After all, I was raised on pan Cubano, cafecito, and pastelitos. Never a dull moment around here. From my "palette" to yours...Cheers! Brenda
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S3 E48 SOMM LIKE IT HOT Featuring Vinya Wine's Allegra Angelo
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Send us a Text Message. Meet the fascinating Miami sommelier Allegra Angelo of Vinya Wine. From NYC's Jean-Georges to Michy's and La Mar, Allegra shares the journey that brought her to Miami and kept her here. Knowledgeable, passionate, and #teamMiami all the way. What's not to love? Ready to dive in? Let's go! LISTEN here: Apple Spotify iHeartradi…
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S3 E47 Discover Ventanitas: A Window into Miami's Coffee Culture with Daniela Perez Miron
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Send us a Text Message. We are about to get very 305. If you know, you know. And if you don’t know, you are about to find out. I am talking, of course, about Miami’s very own VENTANITAS. We all have a personal story and relationship with them. Daniela Perez Miron is here to discuss her very special book Ventanitas: A Window into Miami’s Coffee Cult…
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S3 E46 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Julian Alexander Baker
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Send us a Text Message. A much-respected veteran chef of the Miami culinary scene (Bice at the Victor Hotel, Pelican Cafe, Toscana Divino, and more recently at Le Zoo—to name a few) and mentor to many, Chef Julian Alexander Baker joins me to chat about South Florida's growth and significant changes during his 15 years in Miami. What has kept him in…
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S3 E45 MICHELIN Guide Florida Ceremony 2024: Behind-the-Scenes
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Send us a Text Message. Welcome to the behind-the-scenes episode of the MICHELIN Guide Florida Ceremony: Miami, Orlando & Tampa. If this is your first time tuning in, here's the scoop. I've been writing about the MICHELIN Guide's Florida potential and eventual guide since 2014—initially on the blog and now also on the podcast. In this episode, I'll…
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S3 E44 MICHELIN Guide Florida: Perspective & Predictions 2024
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Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I analyze the MICHELIN Guide Florida and its upcoming April 18th awards ceremony in Tampa. Is South Florida feeling jaded over the Guide? When will negotiations resume for the Florida contract? What do the one, two, and three-star ratings mean? Will any restaurant lose its star? If so, which one (s)? Will th…
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S3 E43 Miami Restaurant Reviews 97-103 PART 2
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Send us a Text Message. Listen in as we candidly review the last 15 Miami restaurants we visited. PART 2 of this supersized episode tackles an unlucky celebrity chef's arrival, a couple of Miami historical locations renovated by flashy restaurant groups, another Argentinian concept that didn't deliver on steak, a classy omakase experience with a st…
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S3 E42 Miami Restaurant Reviews 89-96 PART 1
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Send us a Text Message. Listen in as we candidly review the last 15 Miami restaurants we visited. PART 1 of this supersized episode tackles a Florida homegrown concept and a borrowed NYC one. Three restaurants center their food around a wood fire grill, with only one, a Broward newcomer, emerging victorious and ambitious enough to quickly become th…
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S3 E41 Exclusive: Visit FLORIDA's Dana Young on the MICHELIN Guide's Current Impact & Future
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Send us a Text Message. President and CEO Dana Young updates us on the MICHELIN Guide's current Florida impact since the initial announcement in 2021 and two guides later (with a third on the horizon April 18th). Why is this partnership an ideal fit for the Sunshine State? Are diners choosing us and staying longer in Florida because of our food? Wa…
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S3 E40 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Casa Gioia's Mari Angeles Rubio
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Send us a Text Message. Dominican pastry Chef Mari Angeles Rubio of Casa Gioia brings joy to Miami with her delicious desserts: all the custom cakes, but never ever cupcakes (ni tampoco cake pops, sorry). Listen in as she passionately shares her story. We chat about: Her time in Italy The success of pecan pie errors ATM 101 lessons Her favorite Sou…
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S2 E39 Top 23 Miami Restaurants of 2023: Palette Awards
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Send us a Text Message. The PALETTE AWARDS are for the TOP 23 MIAMI RESTAURANTS I feel offer the most well-rounded and top experiences. I reserved, ordered, photographed, ate, and paid at these restaurants. No one asked nor paid me to do so. Supporting our local restaurants brings me joy, and I am passionate about Miami’s food scene. Did your favor…
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Send us a Text Message. Our dishing and dining means you get the real unfiltered scoop as we experience it. The hubs, Lawrence, returns once again and joins me to review every visit and offer his perspective. We have spent the last several months returning to many Miami favorite restaurants. In this episode, we will highlight which ones continued t…
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S2 E37 SOMM LIKE IT HOT Featuring Karina Iglesias
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Send us a Text Message. Natural wine enthusiast Karina Iglesias talks all things vino and Miami in this special addition to my SOMM LIKE IT HOT series. Listen at the links below and on all major platforms Apple Spotify iHeartradio Amazon Music Audible Supporting the podcast is simple. Like what you hear? Please share, review, and/or rate to help th…
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S2 E36 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Norman Van Aken
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Send us a Text Message. Chef. Author. Mentor. Pioneer. All around Florida badass. Chef Norman Van Aken needs no introduction, really. His contributions to the Florida culinary community have been and continue to be endless. As the founding father of New World Cuisine, he once upon a time created an identity for Florida from which to launch and neve…
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S2 E35 Featuring David Rosendorf on Food for Thought, Cobaya, and all things Miami eats
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Send us a Text Message. Owner of the OG Miami food blog, Food for Thought, FRODNESOR on all things social media, cofounder of the Cobaya Miami underground supper club, and an occasional food writer for publications around town, attorney David Rosendorf stops in to discuss his long-lived love for Miami food. What prompted him to launch the blog and …
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the Miami restaurants we recently visited. 68. Mosaico by Maurizio Farinelli 69. Le Jardinier 70. Tam Tam 71. Queen Omakase 72. Mamey 73. La Mar Miami 74. Casa Mariano 75. La Cosecha Argentinian Steakhouse Most of the Miami restaurants discussed in this episode are small operations that, for better o…
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S2 E33 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Effe Cafe's Nunzio Fuschillo
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Send us a Text Message. Why are Broward residents making lines to score Italian Chef Nunzio Fuschillo's baked goods? I won't gatekeep any longer. The secret is officially out and these are the magic words: Cooper City. Gas Station. Effe Cafe. In this episode, we discuss Nunzio's journey to South Florida, his deep ties to Miami culinary royalty (and…
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S2 E32 Featuring Gina Pelaez of MIAMI FOOD FAMILY
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Send us a Text Message. Restaurateur, Content Creator, and Social Curator Gina Pelaez stopped in to chat, and chat we did. We explore her food journey and the creation of the Miami Food Family brand. Naturally, we Hialeah gals also discuss its history and ongoing growth, Miami's food influencers, the hot South Florida restaurant scene, the flighty …
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Send us a Text Message. An up close and personal look at some of the Miami restaurants we recently visited. Buckle up, butter cup! We discuss it ALL. 61. Queen 62. Zeru 63. MaryGold's Florida Brasserie 64. Walrus Rodeo 65. Avra 66. Calle Dragones 67. Maty's As usual, we candidly review each restaurant without holding back. Which new restaurant capt…
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S2 E30 SOMM LIKE IT HOT Featuring Laura DePasquale
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Send us a Text Message. I am pleased to introduce you to Laura DePasquale, a Master Sommelier, wine educator, and Senior Vice President of the Artisanal Wine Division at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits. Laura's inspiring journey in the wine industry is nothing short of captivating. From her beginnings as an artist to becoming a trailblazer in the …
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S2 E29 MICHELIN Guide Ceremony: Florida 2023
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Send us a Text Message. The MICHELIN Guide came to town to unveil Florida's new BIB Gourmand and One Star recipients at LoanDepot Park. I was fortunate to attend and witness all the action from beginning to end. Listen in as I give you an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse of the ceremony and share which restaurants made the cut and which ones did…
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S2 E28 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Brasserie Laurel's Ashley Moncada
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Send us a Text Message. Guest Chef Ashley Moncada of the new Brasserie Laurel shares some insight into the restaurant's concept with the Ariete Hospitality Group, her quest for heat, love of butter, and her "Mini Mike" monicker. But, don't fall for her coy demeanor. Moncada is a confident beast in the kitchen, ready to capture your full attention a…
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S2 E27 CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Featuring Fiola's Danny Ganem
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Send us a Text Message. Guest Chef Danny Ganem of Miami's Fiola dishes it all. His quest to be the best he can be, as a father, chef, and mentor, leaves no stone unturned. Focused and methodical, Ganem is slowly paving the way to a brighter future. Listen at the link above and on all major platforms Apple Spotify iHeartradio Amazon Music Audible Vi…
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S2 E26 MICHELIN Guide Miami: 2023 Perspective & Predictions
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Send us a Text Message. This episode tackles all things MICHELIN Guide Miami, as I see it, based on my dining experience: 82 restaurants, 219 stars, and counting. What is the meaning of the MICHELIN Guide stars? How does South Florida compare to other cities and Europe? Should any restaurant be removed from the list? Who should be ranked up from a …
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S2 E25 GMCVB's President David Whitaker: Bon Appetit's Food City of the Year and the MICHELIN Guide's Return to Miami
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Send us a Text Message. Tune in as I candidly chat with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) president and CEO, David Whitaker, about Miami's current culinary spotlight. Bon Appétit’s April issue naming Miami their “2023 Food City of the Year” – the first time they recognize an entire city. The upcoming MICHELIN Guide Florida sele…
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S2 E24 SOMM LIKE IT HOT Featuring Sarah Phillips
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Send us a Text Message. We already know Miami is a hot zone for craft cocktails and beer. Know what else is happening? The wine scene! Follow along as I continue my SOMM LIKE IT HOT blog section and continue a podcast crossover featuring some of South Florida’s buzziest swirlers, sniffers, and tasters. Meet Sarah Phillips of the Wines by Sarah: win…
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Send us a Text Message. Kicking off the podcast's Season 2 with a close look at some of the Miami restaurants we recently visited and you, the listener, wanted to hear about the most. 55. Brasserie Laurel 56. Beauty and the Butcher 57. QP Tapas 58. Rancho Patel 59. Eating House 60. Tambourine Room As usual, we candidly review each restaurant withou…
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S1 E22 Top 22 Miami Restaurants of 2022: Palette Awards
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Send us a Text Message. The PALETTE AWARDS are for the TOP 22 MIAMI RESTAURANTS I feel offer the most well-rounded and top experiences. I reserved, ordered, photographed, ate, and paid at these restaurants. No one asked nor paid me to do so. Supporting our local restaurants brings me joy, and I am passionate about Miami’s food scene. Did your favor…
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S1 E21 MIAMI CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Kojin's Pedro Mederos (now The Chef's Counter at Hachidori Ramen)
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Send us a Text Message. Listen in as I chat with Miami chef Pedro Mederos of Kojin (now rebranded as The Chef's Counter at Hachidori Ramen). From South Florida to California's wine country and everything in between (culinary school, Taco Bell, love, Singlethread, Alter, dumplings, Miami diners, omakase, Michelin, D&D, Pokemon, and babies), we discu…
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S1 E20 Miami Restaurant Reviews: 47-54
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Send us a Text Message. This episode is brought to you by WINE ACCESS and its MICHELIN GUIDE Wine Club. A candid look at some of the restaurants we recently visited. Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click play to listen! 47. Zitz Sum 48. Leku Mi…
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S1 E19 MIAMI CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Timon Balloo
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Send us a Text Message. Up close and personal with Miami Chef Timon Balloo. Listen in as we take a deep dive into all things Balloo. How did food shape his life, and guide his journey to where it is today? Take a look behind the curtains as he bares all during this candid, heartfelt, and spirited interview. What exactly is lunchbox culture? Does he…
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the restaurants we visited in July. This episode has it all: a speakeasy omakase, a new and impressive tasting menu, lackluster Mexican eats, rebel sushi, pricey crab, approachable sushi, and even rambunctious Lebanese eats. Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-h…
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S1 E17 MIAMI CHEF SPOTLIGHT: Ariete's Michael Beltran
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Send us a Text Message. Join me on an all-new episode of my Miami Chef Spotlight series. Guest Michael Beltran of Ariete Miami discusses his colorful journey to a shiny and new Michelin Star. What did it take to get there? What are his future plans? Listen in as Beltran reflects and inspires his team to always strive for more. Stay to learn about h…
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the restaurants we visited in June. Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click play to listen! Phuc Yea L'Atelier de Jöel Robuchon Ariete The Surf Club Korner 67 Lion and the Rambler Visit me on my ot…
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S1 E15 MIAMI CHEF SPOTLIGHT: James Friedberg of L'Atelier de Jöel Robuchon
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Send us a Text Message. Listen in as I kick off the all-new Miami Chef Spotlight series. Guest Chef James Friedberg discusses his starry journey to Miami and provides an inside look at his work and commitment to Miami's first 2 Michelin-starred restaurant, L'Atelier de Jöel Robuchon. Enjoy! Get more scoop on Miami dining by visiting my other platfo…
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the restaurants we visited in May. Miami food and beyond... Via Emilia 9 Sexy Fish LPM Restaurant and Bar Nave Uchi Blue Collar Ishilima Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click play to listen! Visi…
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S1 E13 Miami Takeover at the Michelin Guide Florida Launch
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Send us a Text Message. It happened! South Florida is officially home to 11 Michelin-starred and 19 Bib Gourmand restaurants. Now that I have decompressed from all the excitement, I am ready to unpack it all for you, as requested. Were my predictions correct? Who am I happy to see on the Guide's list? Is there a restaurant(s) I feel should not be s…
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S1 E12 SOMM LIKE IT HOT Featuring Ariete's Adrian Lopez
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Send us a Text Message. We already know Miami is a hot zone for craft cocktails and beer. Know what else is happening? The wine scene! Follow along as I continue my SOMM LIKE IT HOT blog section and begin a podcast crossover featuring some of South Florida’s buzziest swirlers, sniffers, and tasters. Meet Adrian Lopez of the Ariete Hospitality Group…
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the restaurants we visited in April. Miami food and beyond... Lido Restaurant at The Surf Club Luca Osteria La Fresa Francesa Kaori Portosole Macchialina Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click pla…
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S1 E10 Unconventional Ales at 3 Sons Brewing Co.
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Send us a Text Message. Corey Artanis’ journey to South Florida happened somewhat serendipitously. Paved with plenty of ups and downs, the path he took picked up cult-level interest and support, way before his dream of a brewery came true. His relentless focus and passion for bringing “unconventional ales for unconventional palates” led the way. I …
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Send us a Text Message. A candid look at some of the Miami restaurants we visited in March: Butcher's Club (Palm Beach Gardens) Boia De The Katherine(Fort Lauderdale) Bourbon Steak Sushi Yasu Tanaka Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click play to…
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S1 E8 SOMM LIKE IT HOT featuring Robuchon Miami's Juan Carlos Santana
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Send us a Text Message. We already know Miami is a hot zone for craft cocktails and beer. Know what else is happening? The wine scene! Follow along as I continue my SOMM LIKE IT HOT blog section and begin a podcast crossover featuring some of South Florida’s buzziest swirlers, sniffers, and tasters. Meet Juan Carlos Santana, beverage director of Th…
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Send us a Text Message. Get the scoop on one of my long-time favorite Miami restaurants, Coconut Grove's Ariete by Cuban American chef Michael Beltran. He has successfully captured the art of beloved Cuban-inspired soul food created with an impactful, ambitious hand: Spanglish fine dining and beyond. Dale! Click play to listen! From my palate, to y…
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S1 E6 Miami Restaurant Reviews: 8-15
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Send us a Text Message. An honest and candid look at some of the Miami restaurants we visited this February: Stubborn Seed Forte by Chef Adrianne Chotto Mate Nossa Omakase Perl Caviar Russe Ariete Orno Once again, the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, joins me as co-host for this developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Click play…
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Send us a Text Message. Miami's most elevated and authentic omakase experience hides on Brickell Key. NAOE restaurant by Chef Kevin Cory offers a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable journey for food enthusiasts looking to try the absolute best. Find out why this gem has been around for 13 years with no signs of slowing down, especially now that the Michel…
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Send us a Text Message. A quick, honest, and candid look at some of the Miami restaurants we visited this January: Zitz Sum Michael's Genuine Osaka Nikkei Fiola NIU Kitchen Mandolin Sunny's Steakhouse Meet the hubs and dining partner-in-crime, Lawrence, as he debuts as my co-host for this new and developing Miami restaurant review series. Dale! Cli…
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S1 E3 Michelin Guide Miami: Perspective and Predictions
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Send us a Text Message. In this third episode, I discuss the Michelin Guide's upcoming arrival to Miami. Listen in as I take a very close look at the TOP 15 THINGS TO KNOW about the guide in general and Miami as a food town. What is our emerging style? What will this mean for South Florida? What are some of the most misunderstood statements made ab…
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S1 E2 Top 21 Miami Restaurants of 2021: Palette Awards
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Send us a Text Message. Learn about the detailed process that goes into choosing my Top 21 Miami Restaurants. I reserved, ordered, photographed, and ate at all of these spots. No one asked nor paid me to do so. Supporting our local restaurants brings me joy, and I am passionate about South Florida's food scene. A lot of careful thought went into th…
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Send us a Text Message. Who is Brenda? Why did I start this podcast? What can you expect? Who is Dale? And why is he so popular in Miami? Also, a reminder that...aquí no hay pelos en la lengua. Support the Show.By Brenda Popritkin
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Send us a Text Message. Support the Show.By Brenda Popritkin
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