The weather is nice! With evening temperatures in the upper 60s, we are inspired to be more active and sociable. Here’s a fine list of Great Gables Events, along with some updates on local restaurants to kick-start your next adventure in our paradisiacal pedestrian playground.
Fairchild Chocolate Festival Weekend
Enjoy Fairchild’s 4th Annual International Chocolate Festival (featuring coffee and tea) this Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30am to 4:30pm with an amazing array of chocolate treats, delicious cups of coffee and soothing cups of tea. Don’t miss chocolate samples, cacao tree sales, the ChocoKids area, cooking demonstrations, the famous ChocoWalk, a chocolate spa, the chocolate cake and cupcake contest, informative lectures and much more. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. For a complete schedule of events call 305-667-1561. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Gables’ Farmers’ Market On Saturdays
Remember to meet up with friends each Saturday through the end of March to enjoy the Farmers’ Market at Coral Gables City Hall from 8am to 1pm. Check out all the great booths with fresh bananas, chilies, citrus, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, herbs, honey, lettuce, miniature vegetables, onions, peppers, potatoes, squash, strawberries, tomatoes and a wide variety of plants and trees for purchase. Baked goods and gourmet specialty foods are also available. Stick around for the gardening workshops, cooking demonstrations, free samples and kids activities. Call 305-460-5311. http://www.coralgables.com
Angelique’s Euro Cafe Specials
Satisfy your palate and quench your thirst with a European Social Hour featuring great food, a notable variety of wines and beers in the company of special friends every Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 8pm in the bar at Angelique Euro Cafe, 117 Miracle Mile. Plus, Bubbly Thursday at the bar, enjoy $4 Glass of Codorníu Brut Cava and $10 Glass of Champagne Piper-Heidsieck with the purchase of bar snacks, plus live jazz starting at 6:30pm. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com
Sunday Prime Rib Dinner At Fleming’s
Fleming’s Steak House at 2525 Ponce is offering a special deal on the Prime Rib Dinner each Sunday in January. Here’s a good excuse to bring your family and friends together to enjoy a great meal for only $29.95. Call 305-569-7995. http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com
What’s Hip Wednesday At The Biltmore
Atlantico Rum presents What’s Hip Wednesday at the Biltmore Bar from 5 to 9pm, featuring half price drinks, wines and champagne for $5 to $9, a cheap and chic bar menu, fresh live jazz, fashionable models from Neiman Marcus and a series of free raffles, hosted by Trend Tracker Tara Gilani. From 7 to 9pm, enjoy complimentary samples of Atlantico Rum. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Smoke’t Is Smokin’
A very interesting new neighborhood barbecue joint is open on US1 featuring some delectable and tasty new specialties. Smoke’T Southern Kitchen and Tap, 1450 South Dixie Highway showcases various flavors from U.S. barbecue capitals, all prepared on its in-house smoker, including Shredded Brisket with a Texas style BBQ sauce, Kansas City baby back ribs, Memphis style dry rub spare ribs and Carolina pulled pork. Traditional specialties include deep fried chicken on waffles, brussel sprouts, country fried steak, cornbread, mashed potatoes, fried catfish and berry cobblers. Smoke’t also serves southern-influenced salads and sandwiches. Ten flat screen televisions, a shuffleboard table and outdoor seating make it a perfect spot for a light bite or drink. Smoke’t’s bar features 12 beers on tap, in addition to the 87 other beer selections and food items on its extensive bar menu. Call 305-672-0011. http://www.smoketbbq.com
Gaetano Ristorante Open At Hotel St. Michel
Chef Gaetano has opened his new restaurant at Hotel St. Michele, 162 Alcazar Ave featuring upscale Italian specialties like Ossobuco Di Vitello, Ragu Napoletano, Black Cod With Gratin Clams and Bacon-Wrapped Scallops. Call 786-422-6796. http://www.hotelstmichel.com/home.html
Por Fin Announces Three-Fixe Menu
If you enjoyed the Miami Spice program, you’ll love Por FIn Restaurant’s new Three-Fix menu, featuring three courses for $35 ($22 for lunch). Call 305-441-0107. http://www.porfinrestaurant.com
Bijan’s Burger Joint Now Open
Check out this casual restaurant at 2325 Gailano Street offering a variety of traditional favorites as well as unique burgers and hot dogs. Call 305-460-5695. http://www.bijansburgerjoint.com
Order Online With Fat Burger
Beat the crowd and eliminate the wait by ordering your next Fat Burger fix online. Use the web-based ordering system, then visit Fat Burger at 232 Miracle Mile to pick up your order. Call 305-461-9989. http://www.fatburger.com
Patagonia On The Mile
Patagonia Home Made Products is a well-known Argentinian Style Gourmet Market at 244 Miracle Mile. Stocked with barbecue-style meats, Argentinean wines, pastries, cakes and imported grocery items, Patagonia is where the Coral Gables community can get a taste of the food of Argentina with delicious prepared foods, including favorites such as empanadas, grilled meats, gourmet sandwiches and more. Call 305-640-8376. http://patagoniausa.net
Talavera Mexican Restaurant
From the team at Jaguar Ceviche, Talavera Mexican Restaurant is an upscale Mexican venue featuring classic dishes of simple, fresh and delicious fare for lunch and dinner. The bar serves various tequilas, Mexican beers and hibiscus-infused margaritas. Call 305-444-2955. http://www.talaveraspot.com
Final Curtain For Farragut North
Make plans now to see Farragut North at GableStage this weekend before the show closes. Call 305-445-1119. http://www.GableStage.org
The Hour Of The Tiger Opens At New Theatre
Now through February 14, enjoy The Hour Of The Tiger by Sandra Riley at New Theatre, 4120 Laguna Street. An American woman immersed in Japan’s post Vietnam terrain is tangled between rescuing a geisha from her money hungry master and conquering her own fears. Performances are at 8pm Thursday through Saturday, plus Sundays at 1pm. Call 305-443-5909. http://www.new-theatre.org
Beat The Steinway Price Increase
Steinway Piano Gallery at 4104 Ponce is extending 2009 prices through the end of January, so now is your chance to purchase the Steinway, Boston, or Essex piano of your dreams for significantly less than what it will cost in just a few weeks time. Call 305-774-9878 for details. http://www.spgmiami.com
Looking Good With Italian Eyewear
Drop in to Italian Eyewear at 204 Aragon for the latest optical fashions by Christian Dior, Bvgarli, Armani, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Ray Ban, Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, Tom Ford, Alviero Martini First Class, Cavalli, Ferragamo, Porta Romana, Valentino, Mont Blanc and more. Call 305-591-0770. http://www.italianeyewearinc.com
Biltmore Super Bowl Package
Get a super deal on super football weekend at Coral Gables’ own super resort. Treat yourself and your team to a uniquely pampered weekend at the spa, by the pool and on the links of the famous Biltmore golf course. Indulge in the finest restaurants in South Florida, enjoy world-class cocktails, fine wines and the best champagne for your super-special weekend in paradise. Call 800-727-1926 for details. http://www.biltmorehotel.com/?chebs=superbowl
Save The Date: Valentine’s Day
Love is in the air at the Biltmore Resort. Singles and sweethearts are invited to celebrate Valentine’s at Miami’s ultimate romantic resort. As part of the celebration, the Biltmore Hotel is giving away a romantic Valentine’s getaway that includes a one night stay in a luxury suite, dinner at Fontana on Saturday, February 13th and Sunday Champagne Brunch on Valentine’s Day. Register online. The winner will be announced on Monday, February 8. http://www.biltmorehotel.com/valentines/
February 3rd: Women’s Self-Defense Course
The University of Miami Police Department has announced their S.A.F.E introductory Women’s Self-Defense Course (UMPD 020310S) on February 3rd from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Self-Defense Awareness and Familiarization Exchange is a two hour program that provides women with personal safety information and an introduction to the physical aspects of self defense. Call 305-284-1105. www.miami.edu/police/selfdefense
Friday, January 22
Fairchild Chocolate Festival Weekend
Enjoy Fairchild’s 4th Annual International Chocolate Festival (featuring coffee and tea) from 9:30am to 4:30pm with an amazing array of chocolate treats, delicious cups of coffee and soothing cups of tea. Don’t miss chocolate samples, cacao tree sales, the ChocoKids area, cooking demonstrations, the famous ChocoWalk, a chocolate spa, the chocolate cake and cupcake contest, informative lectures and much more. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. For a complete schedule of events call 305-667-1561. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Big Band Jazz And Free Lunch
Enjoy great jazz music from Bobby Rodriguez Orchestra along with free lunch with your friends at South Florida Arts Beat at noon in the studios of WLRN, 172 NE 15th Street. If you can’t be there in person, tune in to 91.3FM at 1pm. Formed in 1981, The Bobby Rodriguez Orchestra, a 19-piece big band, has performed for numerous corporate clients, municipalities and charitable organizations around the country. Made up of an all-star line-up, its members have performed with The Miami Sound Machine, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman and Count Basie Orchestras. Bobby conducts the orchestra and is featured as lead vocalist. They’ve assembled, over the years, engaging and certainly swingin’ charts that never fail to excite their audiences. Call 305-995-2236. http://www.wlrn.org
Miami Ski Club Weekly Happy Hour
Leave your skis at home, but meet up with fun-loving and sociable friends at the weekly gathering of the Miami Ski Club. This time it’s Anacapri Restaurant at 2530 Ponce from 6 to 8pm. Call 305-772-1500. http://www.miamiskiclub.com
TREEmendous Miami Celebrates 10 Year History
Local non-profit TREEmendous Miami is celebrating its 10 year history of tree planting throughout Miami-Dade County. Come “Dig Our Roots” at our fund-raising party at JohnMartin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile from 6:30 to 9pm. “Go out on a limb” with us as we celebrate our past and give you a bird’s eye view of our future! Come enjoy a cash bar with JohnMartin’s famous happy hour prices (two for one) and party appetizers generously provided by Green Gables Café of Coral Gables. There will be a lively raffle and a tempting silent auction featuring donated items by local businesses and artists. Come help TREEmendous Miami increase Miami-Dade’s tree canopy and teach the importance that trees play in a healthy world. $35 tickets are limited. Call 305-378-1863 or online at http://www.treemendousmiami.org
Michael Walrath: Angelfish
Born in Baltimore Maryland, Michael Walrath currently works as a Trial Attorney in Miami. Angelfish (dog ear, $16.95) is his first published work of fiction, the first in a trilogy of novels featuring his character Scotty Jackson. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
House at Cosford Cinema
How to describe Nobuhiko Obayahshi’s 1977 movie House? As a psychedelic ghost tale? A stream-of-consciousness bedtime story? An episode of Scooby Doo as directed by Dario Argento? Any of the above will do for this hallucinatory head trip about a schoolgirl who travels with six classmates to her ailing aunt’s creaky country home, only to come face to face with evil spirits, bloodthirsty pianos, and a demonic house cat. Too absurd to be genuinely terrifying, yet too nightmarish to be merely comic, House seems like it was beamed to Earth from another planet. Or perhaps the mind of a child: the director fashioned the script after the eccentric musings of his eleven-year-old daughter, then employed all the tricks in his analog arsenal (mattes, animation, and collage) to make them a visually astonishing, raucous reality. Never before released in the United States, and a bona fide cult classic in the making, House is one of the most exciting genre discoveries in years. The film begins at 9pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. $8, ($6 seniors) cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Saturday, January 23
Farmers’ Market At City Hall
The Gardening Workshop begins at 9am with Organic Bug Control presented by Andres Mejides of Elfin Acres Organic Farm. The 10am Cooking Demonstration features The Art of Cheese Making by Sous Chefs 2 Go. At 11am, the kids will enjoy The Wonders of Chocolate by Peterbrooke Chocolate. Learn about chocolate and make a yummy treat. Call 305-460-5311.
Fairchild Chocolate Festival Weekend
Enjoy Fairchild’s 4th Annual International Chocolate Festival (featuring coffee and tea) from 9:30am to 4:30pm with an amazing array of chocolate treats, delicious cups of coffee and soothing cups of tea. Don’t miss chocolate samples, cacao tree sales, the ChocoKids area, cooking demonstrations, the famous ChocoWalk, a chocolate spa, the chocolate cake and cupcake contest, informative lectures and much more. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. For a complete schedule of events call 305-667-1561. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Gables’ Kitchen Tour
Enjoy a day touring dream kitchens, sampling local chefs’ specialties, and lunching with friends as Coral Gables At Home presents Dishing It Up, starting at Old Spanish Village at 10am. The Luncheon will be poolside at a private home on Country Club Prado. A variety of events ranging from cooking demonstrations and tastings to table settings will occur throughout the tour. Tickets are $25. Call 305-443-4011. http://www.gablesfoundation.org
JC Hutchins: 7th Son — Descent
As America reels from the bizarre presidential assassination committed by a child, seven men are abducted from their normal lives and delivered to a secret government facility. Each man has his own career, his own specialty. All are identical in appearance. The seven strangers were grown, unwitting human clones, as part of a project called “7th Son” (St. Martin’s Griffin, $14.99). The government now wants something from these “John Michael Smiths.” They share the flesh as well as the implanted memories of the psychopath responsible for the president’s murder. The killer has bigger plans, and only these seven have the unique qualifications to track and stop him. But when their progenitor makes the battle personal, it becomes clear he may know the seven better than they know themselves. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 5pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
The Hour Of The Tiger At New Theatre
Now through February 14, enjoy The Hour Of The Tiger by Sandra Riley at New Theatre, 4120 Laguna Street. An American woman immersed in Japan’s post Vietnam terrain is tangled between rescuing a geisha from her money hungry master and conquering her own fears. Performances are at 8pm Thursday through Saturday, plus Sundays at 1pm. Call 305-443-5909. http://www.new-theatre.org
The Great American Trailer Park Musical
Something different is playing at Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, in a riotous fashion. Called a mix between South Park and Desperate Housewives, this campy, sexy, bawdy, R-Rated musical fable is seasoned with murderous ex-boyfriends, Costco, the Ice Capades, and a stripper on the run who comes between a Dr. Phil-loving agoraphobic housewife and her toll-booth collector husband. With a chorus of trailer park divas residing in Armadillo Acres, an exclusive Florida mobile home community, this escapist, fun musical ranges across the American Radio dial from country to blues to rock to disco to bump n’ grind to rhythm and blues. The show will play through February 7th with performances on Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. The musical contains adult content and language and is recommended for mature audiences only. Call 305-444-9392. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org
Last Call: Farragut North At GableStage
Set against the backdrop of a tight presidential primary race, Farragut North follows a young press secretary as he falls prey to back room politics, the manipulations of veteran operatives and the wiles of a seductive intern. This off-Broadway smash is a timely tale of hubris, loyalty and the lust for power. Thursday at 8pm and Sunday at 7pm: $37.50. Friday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm: $42.50. Saturday at 8pm through January 24: Call 305-445-1119. http://www.GableStage.org
No Impact Man at Cosford Cinema
Author Colin Beavan, in research for his next book, began the No Impact Project in November 2006. A newly self-proclaimed environmentalist who could no longer avoid pointing the finger at himself, Colin leaves behind his liberal complacency for a vow to make as little environmental impact as possible for one year. No more automated transportation, no more electricity, no more non-local food, no more material consumption. No problem. That is, until his espresso-guzzling, retail-worshipping wife Michelle and their two year-old daughter are dragged into the fray. Laura Gabbert and Justin Schein’s film provides a front row seat into the familial strains and strengthened bonds that result from Colin’s and Michelle’s struggle with this radical lifestyle change. The film begins at 8pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. $8, ($6 seniors) cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Sunday, January 24
Fairchild Chocolate Festival Weekend
Enjoy Fairchild’s 4th Annual International Chocolate Festival (featuring coffee and tea) from 9:30am to 4:30pm with an amazing array of chocolate treats, delicious cups of coffee and soothing cups of tea. Don’t miss chocolate samples, cacao tree sales, the ChocoKids area, cooking demonstrations, the famous ChocoWalk, a chocolate spa, the chocolate cake and cupcake contest, informative lectures and much more. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $20 adults, $15 seniors, $10 children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. For a complete schedule of events call 305-667-1561. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Develop Your Inner Potential
Here is a twelve week course on self-improvement offered by The New Acropolis, 3837 SW 8th Street. Every human being has tremendous untapped potential. Plato said, “We are gods but we have forgotten it.” Buddha said we each have a potential Buddha inside. Learn how to bring out all your inner talents by increasing consciousness of your higher capabilities through the philosophy of Buddha, Plato, Socrates, Ancient India, Tibet and Egypt. This 12 week course will explore the influence of the invisible planes on your life, the philosophies of eastern and western thinkers, and practical relaxation and concentration techniques. Tuition is $180 ($120 for students with valid I.D.) Call 305-461-5758. http://www.newacropolismiami.org
Afternoon Tea At The Woman’s Club
Enjoy an afternoon tea service with Lisa Lesperance, Candidate for Florida House of Representatives at the Coral Gables Woman’s Club, 1009 East Ponce from 2 to 4pm. Lisa was born in Coral Gables and is a long time member of the Woman’s Club. Lisa is running to represent Coral Gables, Pinecrest, South Miami, Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay in the open District 117 seat in the Florida House of Representatives. Tea tickets are $35. Hats are optional. Donations to the campaign are welcome. Catering provided by the historic Cauley Square Tea Room. Call 305-326-1919. http://www.LisaLesperance.com
Miamian Men’s Chorus Singout For US Army
The Singing Miamians will perform for the Association of US Army Florida Gulf Stream Chapter in cooperation with the Murray Solomon Brown Post #243 JWV to commemorate the 4 Chaplains Event of Feb 3, 1943, aboard the USS Dorchester, which was hit by a torpedo. The chaplins offered their life jackets to the men and sank with the ship. There is no charge at door but donations are gratefully accepted for Operation Brave Kids and the Miami Airport armed Services center as well as family support services and emergency relief funds for military service members and their families in need. The Commemoration of the 4 Chaplains is to support Wounded Warriors Project. The event begins at 3pm at Temple Judea, 5500 Granada. Call 305-446-5657.
Ann Louise Bardach: Without Fidel
Ann Louise Bardach offers a spellbinding chronicle of the Havana-Washington political showdown, drawing on nearly two decades of reporting and countless interviews with everyone from the Comandante himself, his co-ruler and brother Raúl, and other family members, to ordinary Cubans as well as officials and politicos in Miami, Havana, and Washington. The result is an unforgettable dual portrait of Fidel and Raúl Castro — arguably the most successful and enduring political brother team in history. Without Fidel (Scribner, $28) includes never-before-published reporting on Castro, his family, and his half-century grip on the largest country in the Caribbean while assessing how his departure will forever transform politics and policy in the Western Hemisphere — and the world. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Monday, January 25
Ponce Business Association: 396 Alhambra Project
Join fellow citizens of Coral Gables for the weekly lunch at JohnMartin’s, 253 Miracle Mile at noon. The presentation is on 396 Alhambra, destined to become the most prestigious business address in South Florida. The $150 million mixed-use development comprises 285,000 square feet of Class A office space, 30,000 square feet of ground floor restaurant and retail space and a 884-space parking garage. From a two-story lobby to individual offices, 396 Alhambra will feature the finest elements available — rich woods, striking glass, granite and marble. The 15-story tower will also feature a fourth floor terrace for tenants’ enjoyment and exclusive open-air receptions along with a domed gazebo overlooking downtown Coral Gables. 396 Alhambra’s ground floor retail will be anchored by CitiBank and also feature dinning, fitness and spa facilities. The project will be designed for Silver LEED Certification under the standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council. The cost of lunch is $22. http://www.ponceassociation.org
Dani Shapiro: Devotion
In her mid-forties and settled into the responsibilities and routines of adulthood, Dani Shapiro found herself with more questions than answers. Was this all life was — a hodgepodge of errands, dinner dates, e-mails, meetings, to-do lists? What did it all mean? Having grown up in a deeply religious and traditional family, Shapiro had no personal sense of faith, despite repeated attempts to create a connection to something greater. Feeling as if she was plunging headlong into what Carl Jung termed “the afternoon of life,” she wrestled with self-doubt and a searing disquietude that would awaken her in the middle of the night. Shapiro explores the varieties of experience she has pursued–from the rituals of her black hat Orthodox Jewish relatives to yoga shalas and meditation retreats. A reckoning of the choices she has made and the knowledge she has gained, Devotion is the story of a woman whose search for meaning ultimately leads her home. Her journey is at once poignant and funny, intensely personal and completely universal. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Tuesday, January 26
Making the Big Game: Tales of an Accidental Spectator
Jeffrey Fekete’s Making The Big Game — Tales of an Accidental Spectator (Two Harbors Press, $16.95) traces the true story of a fan’s unexpected journey to witness one of the most unlikely upsets in the history of the NFL. Along the way, the author discovers the quirks of the Super Bowl Lottery, internet frauds, high-tech scalpers, and fan legacies. Jeffrey Fekete weaves a personal narrative of family, regional loyalties, and modern American culture. He delves into childhood memories and adult experiences to explore how fans pour hopes and dreams into following highly paid heroes and franchises with billion dollar market valuations. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6:30pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wednesday, January 27What’s Hip Wednesday At The Biltmore
Atlantico Rum presents What’s Hip Wednesday at the Biltmore Bar from 5 to 9pm, featuring half price drinks, wines and champagne for $5 to $9, a cheap and chic bar menu, fresh live jazz, fashionable models from Neiman Marcus and a series of free raffles, hosted by Trend Tracker Tara Gilani. From 7 to 9pm, enjoy complimentary samples of Atlantico Rum. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Stephen Irving Max Schwab: Guantánamo, USA
Established as America’s first foreign naval base following the Spanish-American War, Guantánamo is now more often thought of as our Devil’s Island, the gulag of our times. This book takes readers beyond the orange-jump-suited detainees of today’s headlines to provide the first comprehensive history of Guantánamo from its origins to the present. Even though the Castro government persistently protests America’s presence and refuses even to bank the rent that the U.S. dutifully pays, Guantánamo remains the only place where diplomatic exchanges between the two countries occur, and Schwab documents how the facility has served mutual interests as both a point of nationalistic frictions and a center for diplomatic compromise. By presenting Guantánamo’s story within its broader historical framework, his book gives readers a greater appreciation of America’s true stake in this controversial Caribbean outpost. (University Press of Kansas, $34.95) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6:30pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Bordeaux Wine Theme Dinner
Indulge in a feast of modern French cuisine matched by a selection of white, red and dessert wines from the most famous winemaking region in France, and quite possibly, the world.The Biltmore Hotel’s Palme d’Or restaurant presents a menu designed by the finest chefs in South Florida, featuring Frog Legs “Jambonette,” Sautéed Frog Legs and Garlic Cream, accompanied by Benjamin de Vieux Château Gaubert, Graves, 2006; Farm-Raised Stuffed Guinea Fowl, Foie Gras Mousse, Wild Mushroom and Supreme Sauce, accompanied by Château Sainte Colombe, Côtes de Castillon, 2005; Seared Grass-Fed Beef Tenderloin, Potato Gratin and Aged Port Wine Reduction, accompanied by Château La Tour Carnet, Haut Médoc, 2006; and Apple Tatin, Caramelized Apple, Light Puff Pastry, Vanilla Ice Cream, accompanied by Château Lafaurie Peyraguey, Sauternes, 2006. The dinner takes place at Palme d’Or at 7pm. The cost is $109 or $89 for Cellar Club members. RSVP to 305-913-3203 or online: http://www.thecellarclub.com
Dr. Laura Giannetti: Lelia’s Kiss
Lelia’s Kiss (University of Toronto Press, $65) analyzes gender roles, sexuality, and marriage in the Italian Renaissance through the lens of a large number of comedies from the period, ranging well beyond the traditional canon. Focusing on the social and cultural scripts found within these comedies, Laura Giannetti offers a new perspective on the way gender and marriage were portrayed, imagined, and critiqued on stage during the Italian Renaissance. By examining representations of gender and marriage onstage, Lelia’s Kiss demonstrates that Renaissance comedies not only reflected and commented on the everyday life of the time, but also interacted with it, exercising playful humour and revealing insight. Laura Giannetti is an associate professor of Italian in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures at the University of Miami. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Thursday, January 28AACCLA’s Annual Outlook on the Americas Luncheon
The Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the Center for Hemispheric Policy at the University of Miami invite you to AACCLA’s Annual Outlook on the Americas Luncheon at the Biltmore Hotel, with registration beginning at 11:30am. The keynote speaker will be Arturo Valenzuela, Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. As the first major hemispheric business event of 2010, AACCLA’s Outlook on the Americas provides an opportunity for an open dialogue on the economic and political issues that will have the greatest impact on hemispheric trade and investment in the coming year. The luncheon will attract business executives and political leaders, as well as the leadership of the 23 American Chambers of Commerce throughout the hemisphere. http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=787731
Angelique’s Bubbly Thursdays with Live Music
Meet up at Angelique Euro Cafe, 117 Miracle Mile from 4 to 8pm each Thursday for $4 glasses of Codorníu Brut Cava and $10 glasses of Champagne Piper-Heidsieck with the purchase of bar snacks. Enjoy the live jazz starting at 6:30pm. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com
Sascha Rothchild: How to Get Divorced by 30
It’s an age-old story. Girl meets boy. Girl marries boy. Girl decides she is way too young to be stuck in nuptial mediocrity. When Sascha Rothchild realized that the one person she didn’t want at her thirtieth birthday party was her husband, she knew that it was time for the relationship to end. So, like the hordes of others of her generation for whom starter marriages are as common as Louis Vuitton knock-offs and $5 Starbucks lattes, they got divorced. With wit, moxie, and honesty, Sascha spills about the horrible ex-boyfriends, awkward dates, drugs, a near-death experience and memories of growing up in an unconventional household that led to her short-lived marriage. A story of love, loss, a flat-screen TV named Ruby, and plenty of misguided decisions, How to Get Divorced by 30 (Plume, $15) is a hysterical look at what exactly “til death do us part” means today. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com