Thursday, December 28, 2023

Get Ready to be Cubanized With Cuba Under the Stars

What makes a Cubanita Americana like me mover el esqueleto? The Cuban tunes I grew up with and the stories behind the Cuban artists that brought them to life. Cuba Under The Stars is back from now to February 25, 2024 and this year’s outdoor, majestic show tells a love story through music and time, that is bigger and better than ever. The immersive experience produced by Peter Regalado, begins from the moment you walk in. You will absolutely love the entire decor and vibe that literally transport you to 1950s Cuba and all the glory and splendor of that era. The antique cars, the domino table and the traditional replicas of Cuban store fronts add to the cultural extravaganza.




Featuring renowned and loved Cuban actors and Grammy-winning artists like Malena Burke and Luis Bofill, 
Cuba Under the Stars offers an evening of Cuban culture and nostalgia. Dancer and singer Lena Burke, comedian Bonco Quinongo, influential Latin singers Nic N Taya, Eylen, Lizyanet, and Alberto Alberto Pino, along with 25 Broadway dancers and an impressive grand orchestra, bring the stage to life for a two hour show full of awe and inspiration. Trust me when I tell you that you will get up from your seat throughout the night to sing and dance to the timeless classics and contemporary songs performed onstage - and throughout the venue.








This year the show takes place at Bayfront Park every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening (except on select dates). Enjoy Mojitos and Cuba Libres in the event’s cocktail lounge area along with some delicious appetizers or dinner to get the Cubaneo going prior to the show. It really wouldn't be a Cuban affair if there weren't croquetas and arroz con pollo involved. And by the way, the fun isn’t over when the show comes to a close. Stay for the After Party and keep the music pumping through your soul.






Entrance fees range from $50 to $250 per seat and seating capacity is 400. Drinks and food are not included in the ticket purchase price.









Visit www.cubaunderthestars.com to get your tickets. Pero cuentame, what is your favorite part of the Cuban culture?

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

New Omakase in Doral - Rakki Sushi

There’s a new omakase in town and it’s amazing! You must must must go visit Rakki Sushi in Doral and treat yourself to an experience like no other. We recently came from Japan where we enjoyed so many omakase adventures and yet this one here has become one of our favorites. It is authentic with a sliver of Miami fusions to keep us happy. The husband and wife team is just a pleasure to talk to and really have put heart and soul into this spot. Chef Wang makes this an experience to remember by explaining each and every course and definitely knows how to bring out the flavors in each piece.







From the fresh Japanese fish you may not have ever tasted before, to the fun adventure in helping to torch the tender A5 Wagyu beef, we were smiling from beginning to end. Every bite was a pleasant surprise for our palate. You can truly hear the passion Chef Wang has for omakase as he explains why he puts together every ingredient. 
The freshness of each piece of fish and the tenderness we savored really stood out.

                                                 










We indulged in their Second Bite menu which includes over 13 courses and also offers some add-ons at an incredible price. It is filling and the variety of omakase is extraordinary. They also have other menus to choose from so you can select which one is for you.








I highly recommend a visit to Rakki Sushi and Omakase. And now, if you write them an honest review on Google, you’ll receive a complimentary hand roll. Trust me, you will be more than happy to support this duo as soon as you meet them and bite into the first piece.









Let me know your favorite piece when you visit them in the comments below! To see the experience in action, check out my IG reel.  And click on the follow button so you don't miss any delicious spots to enjoy both in Miami and beyond.

Rakki Sushi and Omakase
3655 NW 107 Avenue
Doral, Florida


Craving Colombian? Then Let's Go To Patacon Pisao in Doral

What’s your favorite Colombian dish? I got a couple but my recent craving for some Colombian food took me back to one of my favorite spots: Patacon Pisao in Doral. I remember when I started coming to this place almost 30 years ago. While it seems like a lifetime away since I took my first bite of their Colombian recipes, and like Cubans say  "como ha llovido de aquel entonces", the food is just as outstanding as it was back then and it still triggers that homey feeling of when we either went there for lunch or picked up food after work for a comfy night in watching movies at home.


I wanted to share some more of my go-to dishes at this neighborhood staple with you. Check out one of their namesake Patacones and get a taste of why they have been around for so many decades.






While you're taking a look at their delicious menu, do yourself a favor and order their famous Jugo de Pina con Yerbabuena to get the juices flowing.... literally.




There are so many appetizers to choose from, making a decision will be hard. But whether you choose their flavorful empanadas, their cheesy Arepa de Choclo, or any other starter, you won’t go wrong.




Be sure to order their Bandeja Paisa Especial. It’s a typical Colombian dish that brings together an abundant medley of food and ingredients, and their version is outstanding.




Oh and save some room from dessert. We loved the Cuatro Leches and their traditional Brevas con Arequipe y Queso. Definitely a happy ending!






I know your mouth is watering just like mine is right about now, so head on over to Patacon Pisao and let me know what dish was your favorite. For a foodgasmic reel of my latest adventure there, check out my Instagram post  Don't forget to like and share it and if you enjoy keeping up with all the food, travel and fun that's right at your fingertips, then follow me on IG and you won't miss an adventure. Can't wait to connect!

Patacon Pisao
7902 NW 36 Street
Doral, Florida


Amazing Cuban Brunch in Miami Lakes- Cafe Mi Vitrola

If you’re looking for a great Cuban brunch in Miami Lakes, I got you covered. Check out Cafe Mi Vitrola serving up delicious brunch favorites with a twist.





The flavors are nostalgic and the ambiance is fun. It's a great spot to visit with family or friends.



Some must-try dishes are:


📍Croquetas - creamy, flavorful and the perfect bite



📍Chicken and Waffles - a sweet and salty experience with a delicious crunchy texture



📍Steak and Eggs - What’s more comforting than a tasty grilled churrasco topped with eggs and a side of potatoes?




📍Tortilla Espanola - Spanish style omelette topped with a nice surprise… Chicharrones




📍Pancake Tower - Need I say more? Ok… one more word: Nutella



You can also enjoy one of their fun cocktails (love the mojito) or go for the gold and order their bottomless mimosas for just $19. Brunch is served Saturday and Sundays from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm.




Oh and you’ll love the vibes with some chill entertainment to take your weekend relaxation up a notch.

Hurry over and taste for yourself!  Check out my post on Cafe Mi Vitrola on Instagram and follow me to get first dibs on the best eats, travel spots, giveaways and just plain having a good time.

Cafe Mi Vitrola
15352 NW 79th Ct
Miami Lakes