Submitted by Marlene Hackland from Biscayne Park

Q: We have tickets for the Arscht Theater and want to find some interesting eateries nearby. We have tried City Hall and Prelude but want to try some place new. Where would you suggest?

Answered 12/05/11 08:34:54 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Marlene Hackland I am not sure when you are going but if it is before Thursday, you should try Phuc Yea! An exciting nowyou-see-it-now-you-don't Vietnamese pop-up in downtown office building. http://bit.ly/oJHBJW Also, downtown and not too far from the theater is NeMesis Urban with an eclectic menu by Micah Edelstein, a contender on Top Chef. The ambitious fare is pricey but edgy. http://www.miami.com/nemesis-urban-bistro-article Bin No. 18 is the complete opposite. It is low-key, value priced and utterly welcoming. Chef-owner Alfredo Patino couldn’t be nicer. Plus, they have a super wine selection. http://www.bin18miami.com/ Just across the street is the tiny and dark Democratic Republic of Beer, which is more pub like but also serves some good sliders and other casual fare.

Submitted by Angelica Ramirez from Fort Lauderdale, FL

Q: Our family will visit Washington DC for my husband's 70th Birthday. Where can we have a lovely dinner on Dec. 10 with our grandchildren, who are 11, 9, 8, 7, and 5 years old. We are very open regarding style of food. Thanks for your opinion and have a very nice Thanksgiving!. Angelica Ramirez

Answered 11/22/11 17:43:41 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Angelica I am afraid I am not the best person to ask for advice on D.C. I do get around but haven't been there for a couple of years. Luckily, my friend and colleague Tom Sietsema (sietsemat@washpost.com) can fill you in on all things culinary in our capital.

Submitted by Wade Price from New Orleans, LA

Q: I'm looking for a restaurant in Miami metro area that serves non-traditional thanksgiving fare, that's open on Thanksgiving Day. Ideally, we'd love to eat some fresh local seafood. Any ideas?

Answered 11/22/11 12:35:39 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Many of Miami's best seafood spots will be closed for Thanksgiving, though, of course, all the hotels will be serving. If you want to avoid the turkey and stuffing, consider Miami Beach where A Fish called Avalon, one of the most enduring and popular restaurants on Ocean Drive is serving a fantastic menu on Thanksgiving Day, including lobster. See their website for details: www.afishcalledavalon.com. Also, Prime One Twelve, always open and always great is an option for a special occasion. www.mylesrestaurantgroup.com. But book right away as it's also always super busy.

Submitted by Rita from Miami, florida

Q: Looking for a very good Italian restaurant on South Beach with a great ambiance for a special dinner where family is to meet a son's special lady. Thanks, RM

Answered 11/21/11 19:48:48 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Rita: I think you have several excellent choices including the hidden gem called Escopazzo (escopazzo.com), where the food is exceptional (all organic and house made) and the service is exquisite. You must definitely reserve in advance and explain the situation. Maybe even ask for help choosing the wine in advance. They will be happy to accommodate any special requests. Another choice could be Cecconi's a the Soho House(cecconismiamibeach.com) where the food is also spectacular and the outdoor setting is magical. I adore Casa Tua (casatualifestyle.com) but service can be hit or miss. If you are known you are treated well. If not, you might as well be seated in the bathroom. Prices are high but with the right night outside in the transporting setting, it could be magical.

Submitted by s smigelski from Arden, NC

Q: Our son will be getting married in October 2012. The rehearsal dinner will be held on a Saturday night. Do you have any recommendations for restaurants in the Hollywood/South Broward area? We would prefer someplace casual,with a private room (or private area), that is reasonably priced. Since we are living out of state, any help you could give us would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Answered 11/16/11 19:30:54 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: If you want something very South Florida, you might want to try The Southport Raw Bar (1536 Cordova Rd., 954-525-2526). It is casual but as the owner says, "you do need shirt and shoes." They have a private patio deck that can hold up to 70. Call and ask for Mike or Jack. Taverna Opa (410 N. Ocean Dr., 954-929-4010) might work, too. They are large, pleasant and on the water. Plus, they don't mind a few broken plates. There is no separate dining room and it does get loud later in the evening but it is super fun and tasty, too.

Submitted by Ben Schmidt from Cincinnati

Q: Victoria, In town for lunch tomorrow, curiuous what you would consider the best Cuban sandwich in town? Might there be any stops along the way from Miami to Marathon you'd recomend as well? Thanks! Ben

Answered 11/16/11 19:11:01 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Ben There are lots of great Cuban sandwiches from Key West up to Calle Ocho. You can find one of the best at La Carretta in LIttle Havana or David's Cafe on Miami Beach. El Pub is also a good stop. The Islamorada Fish Co can serve you up a fried grouper sandwich that will get you through the drive north. Or, for conch fritters, The Island Fish Co. 12648 Overseas Hwy; 305-743-4191.

Submitted by Petra Heidinger from Munich, Germany

Q: Dear Victoria, me and my family (husband and 2 kids aged 13 and 10) will visit Miami again (we´ve been here before and really love it!) - this time for New Year´s Eve. Can you give us some good advice where to have a lovely dinner on the 31st of December with our kids? We are very open regarding style of food. Thanks for your opinion and greetings from Germany! I often read your answers! Petra

Answered 11/10/11 06:33:02 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Petra Thanks so much for your patience. It seems I am having some delay with this forum. I have kids almost exactly the same age as yours and finding the right place to go out with them is sometimes a trick. I think you would be very happy at Soho House's Cecconi's, which has super Italian food and a very hip atmosphere. You might all also appreciate The Raleigh's newest restaurant overseen by Miami's star chef Michael Schwartz. The outdoor garden offers plenty of space for the kids to wander if they like in between courses. Lincoln Road, Miami Beach's liveliest spot for people watching could also be good (Sosta, Spris, Meat Market)No doubt, more and more hotels and Miami Beach restaurants will come up with good prix-fixe deals in the next few months. So, feel free to check back with me in December.

Submitted by Michelle Cuello from Coral Gables, FL

Q: Hi Victoria, I went to a baby shower several months ago and tried "Nieman Marcus Bars" and I was wondering if you knew where I might find the receipe? Thank you, Michelle

Answered 11/10/11 06:22:34 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Michelle There are literally thousands of versions of this recipe but here is the most simple. Feel free to adjust to your taste. It is named Neiman Marcus bars because they are so rich! Neiman Marcus Bars ▪ 1 egg ▪ 1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick) ▪ 1 chocolate (yellow or butter pecan) cake mix ▪ 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped Combine egg and butter and beat well. Add cake mix and pecans. Mix until well combined. Press into greased 9×13 pan. ▪ 8 ounce cream cheese softened ▪ 3 eggs ▪ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ▪ 1 pound powdered sugar In a bowl combine cream cheese and 3 eggs. Beat until combined well and then add vanilla and powdered sugar. Mix together well and spread over cake mix layer. Sprinkle with extra pecans if you like. Bake at 300 degrees for 50-55 minutes or until center is set. You do not want to over bake these. Cool completely and cut into squares.

Submitted by Denise from Miami

Q: Hi Victoria, We are having a girls spa day at the Lowes hotel in Miami beach at the beginning of Nov. We wanted to have drinks and dinner afterwards. Do you have any place that you would reccomend in the area?

Answered 11/10/11 06:14:18 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: There are a number of fun spots near the Loew's including Sylvano's, a hidden little gem of an Italian place that gets lively at night. It's at 1925 Liberty Avenue. CLoser to the hotel, you can try the very fun Meat Market just a short walk away (burn some calories) at 915 Lincoln Road. I am sure you will have a great time!

Submitted by Michelle Lacayo from Brickell, Miami, Florida

Q: Hi, Victoria. I am currently working on a project based on the restaurants and bars in the Brickell area. I would love to get the opinion of an expert. What are the best restaurants from certain backgrounds (chinese, mexican, italian, seafood, japanese, colombian, peruvian, brazilean argentinian, so forth) and what are their most delectable dishes? It would be great if you could give me your personal opinion on the tastes of Brickell. Thank you.

Answered 11/02/11 12:52:53 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Michelle: This sounds more like an assignment than a question! Send me an email at vpevpe@gmail.com and we can discuss it more. Cheers,

Submitted by Elyn Bushman from Weston

Q: In regard to your advice today for a Good veggie restaurant, you missed an opportunity to recommend 1 of the best that has been open for 30 years, beginning with a hole in the wall on Arthur Godfrey Rd, M.B. and for at least the past 20 years is located in the Shops of Sans Souci, just East of Biscayne Blvd. & 123rd St. "HERE COMES THE SUN" is regularly patronized by some of the most prominent S. Florida residents, such as Don Shula. Try it & see for yourself.

Answered 11/02/11 12:51:39 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Thanks, Elyn Yes, I just about grew up in the place and was remiss in not mentioning it. Though, I do have to say it does fit the Health food store restaurant model that I think the reader was trying to avoid. That said, you cannot beat their salads or the tart and tangy frozen yogurt. Thanks for reminding me.

Submitted by Your Name from Your Location (City, State)

Q: The miami herald wrote an article about a Brazilian resturant on Washington Ave in Miami Beach a couple of weeks ago. Can you tell me the name and address? thank you.

Answered 11/02/11 12:49:11 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Yes, Linda Bladholm wrote a fun piece about Rose Mary Brazilian Style Café Address: 1321 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Contact: 305-538-4452 Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/10/20/2461615/home-style-brazilian-cooking-on.html#ixzz1cZFI6dym Enjoy!

Submitted by nichole catanzaro

Q: Hi Victoria, I was wondering if you have any reviews for Vita by Baoli, the frenchspice menu for Nov looks yummy. This is for a special event, my birthday. I am looking for a romantic scene but with sobe vibe and most important great food. Thanks, Nichole

Answered 11/02/11 12:46:33 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Nichole I saw the French Spice menu, too, and it does look alluring. I am sorry to say that I have not been yet. it is on my list of spots to check out but I don't know if it will in time for your birthday. We could use a great, fun French spot on South Beach. Cheers,

Submitted by Susan eder from Atl,ga

Q: When I was in town recently I was taken to eat at Mandoline...what a great place. Especially getting high marks was the lava bean dip...exceptional Is there any chance I can get the recipe? Susan Eder

Answered 10/14/11 16:11:59 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Susan, I couldn't agree with you more. It is a great place, which, by the way, is expanding with some 30 or more new seats by the end of the year. The charming owner, Ahmet Erkaya, was generous enough to share this recipe: Fava Bean Puree Dip Ingredients: 1 big can (6lbs 12oz or 3kg) of fava beans drained (use broad beans or butter beans if fava beans are not available) 2 cups 2%milk 3 large carrots cut in cubes 6 whole scallions cut in cubes 1 bunch flat parsley chopped 1 tablespoon chopped garlic 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Salt Fresh pepper Mix all the ingredients except olive oil in a food processor. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Add olive oil slowly while pulsing the processor. Enjoy on a toasted country hard crust bread.

Submitted by Lourdes from Coral Gables

Q: I fell in love with Treacle Sponge Pudding while I dined at Rules and St. John's in London a few years ago and look forward to returning each year because it is amazing. Do we have any good English restaurants in Miami that have this on the menu, along with good authentic English food that I love?

Answered 10/14/11 16:09:06 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Lourdes: There are Irish pubs galore, but for a proper English restaurant, I am sorry to report that I have yet to discover one in Miami, The Keys or Ft. Lauderdale. However, I have it on rather good authority from my most British of British friends (and a foodie to boot) that the Bay Point Publix (4870 Biscayne Blvd; 305-573-8601) sells a “very, very yummy” version of prepared treacle pudding that she serves “complete with double whipping cream to finish off any hope you might have of staying trim and svelte.” She gifted me a package of Aunty’s Steamed Pudding and I agree that it is tasty. At least it satisfies an ex-pats homesick cravings. If you want to make the real thing, consider following the recipe below by the talented Delia Smith: http://www.deliaonline.com/recipes/cuisine/european/english/steamed-treacle-sponge-pudding.html You can find golden syrup at most gourmet stores and online.

Submitted by teenaperry from marathonfl

Q: Dear Victoria, I have a friend who will not let wait staff remove our plates from the table until everyone has finished eating. She states is a fine dining rule and it shows class. Is this true? I prefer my plates removed.

Answered 10/13/11 22:43:29 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: I am sorry to tell you but the simple answer is that your friend is right. In fine dining restaurants, dirty plates should only be cleared after all the guests are finished and have indicated this by placing their utensils to the right of the plate on a diagonal at about 5 o’clock. . The idea is that the lollygagging diner isn’t made to feel anxious or rushed because plates around him are disappearing. It also keeps movement to a minimum so that diners can chat with each other without the constant interruption of servers. However, rules of etiquette are in place to make guests comfortable. So, if a guest has an aversion to staring at dirty dishes, it would certainly be fine to ask a waiter to remove them. In casual eateries, waiters tend to serve dishes as they come out—not all at once, and clear in the same way, when diners are done. It is best to communicate with the waiter in advance since so many people these days (like you and your friend) have different ideas about what is right and wrong. Frankly, in casual spots, I don’t mind either style if it is done unobtrusively. If there is one thing I do hate, though is that ubiquitious phrase, “Are you still working on it?”

Submitted by Laura Ricci from Boulder, CO

Q: Hi Victoria, I always love your reviews and your "finds" of out of the way and funky little gems. I'm going to be in downtown Miami for one night in Nov. Can you suggest a place to eat...ethnic (I love Peruvian) and something with character and Miami flare? Also, any suggestions for a before or after dinner drink?

Answered 10/13/11 21:50:02 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Laura Thanks so much for following me all the way from Boulder. You are definitely in luck when it comes to Peruvian food in Miami. There seems to be a new spot opening every day. You may already know of the very popular CVI CHE (105 N.E. 3rd Ave.; 305-577-3454 ) where the cool modern setting and super fun staff make it a great experience. The traditional food, including exceptional namesake ceviche, qualifies it as a special local find. I also recently discovered a surprisingly adorable little find called Martini 28 (146 SE 1st Ave., 305-577-4414). The menu changes every day and includes lots of inventive specials. Prices are crazy cheap and the owners are so friendly. They only serve dinner a couple of nights a week (usually Thursday and Friday bit some Saturdays, too) So call first. Despite the name, they don’t actually serve cocktails. For a drink, maybe stop by Zuma or the fabulous Miami Chop House, which has a great view and nice Happy Hour specials. I am coming to Boulder in January! You'll have to share some local spots.

Submitted by giselle from Miami

Q: Dear Victoria I really enjoyed your piece on 3 Chefs the other day and have to say I agree with you on their food. Wish it were better since I live just a few miles north of there on Biscayne. They seem like they are trying though. Do you know of any nice vegetarian spots in town that are not in health food stores? We often go to the lovely little Honey Tree or even Whole Foods. But next week I am taking my son and his vegan girlfriend out for lunch and a big announcement and wanted something a little more special.

Answered 10/11/11 12:12:12 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Giselle: You’ve got a great option right in your neighborhood with the sweet and sincere Mi Vida Café adjacent to Divine Trash. The talented Chef Daniela La Gamma turns out lovely vegetarian and especially good vegan dishes. She whips zucchini, into a fantastic raw angel hair “pasta” with dairy free pesto and makes vegan mushroom sloppy joe’s. Plus, you can sample all kinds of juices and exceptional raw desserts, too. Sit out back in the garden on the wrought iron tables away from the noise and fumes of Biscayne Boulevard. 7244 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 305-759-6020 www.mividacafe.net.

Submitted by nichole from boynton beach

Q: Victoria, Do you know what restaurants are extending the miami spice off through Oct? or at least through the weekend? Thanks, Nichole

Answered 10/03/11 20:48:15 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Nichole I don't know which ones are continuing the exact same specials through October but there are many other offers going on that you can find on their site: http://ilovemiamispice.com/offers.htm.

Submitted by Adriana Giacoma Rosa from Bay Harbor Island, Florida

Q: hi Victoria, good morning! I am a Personal Chef and work privately for my clients, that is how i make my living , with something that I always loved,passion for cooking.I am also coming from italian family just like you. At the same time I run a private dinner event once a week,please if you get a chance go to www.saporiprivatekitchen.com and you will see what is all about.I am writing you because I will like to have a food critique at one of my events,please keep in mind that this is something private. Please let me know if you are willing to participate or you can suggest somebody else. thank you so much for your time. Ti ringrazio, Adriana Giacoma Rosa

Answered 10/03/11 20:44:17 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: How cool, Adriana: It sounds wonderful. How do people find out about or get invited to your events? I would love to come but I am afraid it would not really be possible. Send me an email at vpevpe@gmail.com and I will try to suggest some other critics who might be able to make it.