Submitted by bill brown from miami shores fl

Q: Dear Victoria, I am going to be entertaining an out of town group (10-15)staying at the Westin diplomat in September. Looking for a great, interesting, (within a 15-20 minute radius) south Florida spot for less then 65.per person including drinks. Maybe the Miami Spice promotion might help with the selection... thanks! Bill Latin American / Caribbean could be a plus

Answered 08/24/09 14:25:37 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Bill Sorry for the delay. I seldom make it to Broward so I had to do a little sleuthing. In fact, the Miami Spice promo is only in Dade County. So, I found you the perfect spot in the northern reaches of the county. A meal at Neomi's Grill (305-692-5770;www.trumpmiami.com) in the Trump Resort is sure to please. Chef Kurtis Jantz is a fun chef who turns out some delicious dishes. The dining room is large and luxurious with a fantastic view. I called to check and they do not limit the number of diners that can participate in the Spice menu as some restaurants do. Enjoy!

Submitted by Rudy from Miami, FL

Q: Hi Victoria. New Restaurant updates: PF Changs, Taverna Opa, and Buffalo WIld Wings will open soon at the Dolphin Mall in Miami. They should be open somehwere between the end of this year to early 2010. ALso two places that have great pizza is The Big Cheese in South Miami(67 Ave and US 1), and Mike and Son's New York Style Pizza, which has two locations in west miami dade: one on Bird Rd(SW 42ST) and 152 ave and another on SW 138 ave and 84 st.

Answered 08/20/09 12:04:27 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Thanks for the tips! I'll be sure to check out all the newcomers.

Submitted by stefy from miami

Q: Hi Vitoria, Im looking for a nice place not to expensive to have a baby shower for a friend any suggestions?

Answered 08/20/09 12:03:46 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Wow! This must be the season for big get-togethers. Look at my answers to Isabel. Peg and Alexis. All of those spots would work well for such an event. Also, if there is a hotel near you that you like, they often put together super showers. If you are near the Marriott's Cane Fire Grille, consider that as a good and well-priced option.

Submitted by Alexis from Miami Shores,FL

Q: Hi Victoria. My family (about 20) is planning a 90th birthday celebration for my mother-in-law on Nov. 1, 2009. She is a chocoholic and we were thinking of having it at a restaurant that specializes in chocolate desserts. Can you suggest such a place? We all live in Miami. We are all racking our brains. Hope you can help.

Answered 08/20/09 11:58:27 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Well, have you heard of Chocolate (305-858-9088;www.chocolaterestauranmiami.com)? It's an exciting Argentine restaurant on Coral Way that specializes in all things chocolate, including great desserts. Also in Coral Gables is the spectacular Cacao (305-445-1001;www.cacaorestaurant.com) where Chef Edgar Leal's talented wife Mariana Montero de Castro spins wildly delicious chocolate creations. A bit closer to home is the amazing Michael's Genuine where Hedy Goldsmith works wonders in chocolate, including homemade smores and a luscious chocolate cremoso with sea salt among others.

Submitted by peg evans from biscayne park, fl

Q: I am looking for a restaurant for a family reunion in the north miami area. We want a separate room in the restaurant for about 45 people. A lunch meal. Not wildly expensive, but nice. Thanks.

Answered 08/20/09 11:52:00 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Peg: A special lunch at Chef Allen's in Aventura (305-935-2900;www.chefallens.com) is always a sure thing. Especially now with the new, casual menu and value prices. Another sure-to-please option is the always popular Little Havana (305-899-9069; littlehavanarestaurant.com). The Safari Room can easily hold 45 people and the staff there is extremely competent. Talk to any of the managers who can help you plan a menu. They speak English and are super helpful.

Submitted by Tamara Knight from Miami, Florida

Q: Regarding your pizza review in last Thursday's Food section, my husband and I were disappointed the restaurants reviewed were in north M-D county and, of course, South Beach. We have, what we consider, 2 excellent pizza restaurants within walking distance. One, the more traditional Frankie's, the other one, is Graziano's Pizza, located on S.W. Bird Road and 92nd Avenue. Have you reviewed that one? We think it is great but we are wondering how it would hold up if reviewed by food critic.

Answered 08/09/09 22:10:54 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Tamara: I am sorry not to have gotten to your favorite spots and not to have included them in the story. After months of eating so much bread, cheese and sauce, I am taking a wee break from it. Lately, I've been indulging in some amazing burgers!! I will try to get down there to check out Graziano's and Frankie's though. Thanks for your nice note.

Submitted by yuli from miami,fl

Q: Hello Victoria I was actually just wondering about the new restaurant EOS! will you reccomended it? is it a like a really good restaurant to take my husband to dine on his birthday, and i want great food and excellent service... I will appreciate your feedback! Thanks, Yuli

Answered 08/09/09 22:07:50 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Yuli Yes, I whole heartedly recommend it for superior food, a great dining room (and even better outdoor space when it cools off a bit) and lovely servers. THe menu is a little booby-trapped but take the advice of the waiters and you can't go wrong. Book it!

Submitted by Jack from Miami Beach

Q: Dear Victoria, I am looking for a hot spot on Sobe but dont want to spend a ton. Is there a place with a great view on the Miami Spice list. Not just waterfront view but people too? Jack

Answered 08/09/09 22:05:43 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Jack: You will be thrilled to know that the China Grill Team is participating in a big way this year! Check out the website (ilovemiamispice.com) for menus to their best spots,including Asia de Cuba, which offers some of the best eye candy in town.

Submitted by Isabel from miami, fl

Q: My son is getting married end of November in St Mary Cathedral catholic church. We are looking for a restaurant for the rehersal dinner close to the church, we are expecting around 40 guests. Looking for something reasonable, private room if possible. Thank you

Answered 07/31/09 18:09:27 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: There aren't a lot of great places near the Cathedral that fit your needs but one excellent one I would suggest is called Anise, a lovely Greek Taverna at 620 NE 78th St., Miami; 305-758-2929; www.anisetaverna.com. They do a great job and can I am sure can work out a good price for you depending on the night. Congratulations!

Submitted by Crystal Cid from Pinecrest

Q: I wanted to inform you of a restaurant named Fleming. It is also known as Fleming a Taste of Denmark. But that was all changed by a TV show that came down and completely transformed this retirement home to now a new chic place. The menu use to consist of proof reading 6 pages and a abundance of food. But now its low key much cheaper and absolutely beautiful.The food is even better than before.It has been standing for 25 years and definitely needed the look. I wanted to share with you because this is known as Pincrest best kept secret. Location: 8511 SW 136 Street

Answered 07/31/09 17:51:55 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Wow! Thanks Crystal. Yes, I heard about the show. In fact, I was at The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables and had a chance to chat with some of the show's staff about the transformation. I will definitely try to get down there soon.

Submitted by rudy from miami

Q: hey victoria, i just wanna recommend an excellent Italian restaurant called Carrabas(im sure you seen the commercials on TV), the one in South Miami is the one Ive gone, its on SW 58 ave and 73 ST, a block from the Shoppes at Sunset Place. Great pasta, the Caeser Salad is the best and the desserts are to die for, and the prices are affordable. Next to Carrabas is RA Sushi, great place for happy hour. Im dont even like sushi, I just gone there with my cousins , who are sushi freaks, and its a great friendly atmosphere, the happy hour are the best great drink specials, and the chicken teriyaki is pretty good. Thanks for your time.

Answered 07/27/09 14:06:38 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Rudy: Thanks for the tips. I have been to both Carrabba's and RA Sushi. I'm so glad to know that you have found such fun places right next to each other. Isn't Miami great?

Submitted by Ed from Miami

Q: What;s the best peruvian restaurant in Miami?

Answered 07/27/09 14:03:44 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Ed There are so many amazing Peruvian restaurants in Miami from simple ceviche houses like the beloved Salmon & Salmon or El Chalån to the nouvelle Peruvian cuisine at Adriana’s in Surfside or the fusion fare of Cvi-Che 105 by La Cibeles (105 NE Third Ave.; 305-577-3454). An all around satisfying choice for all the regional specialties is El Gran Inka on Key Biscayne and Sunny Isles (www.graninka.com). But, the Peruvian spot in Coral Gables worth checking out especially for the upcoming celebration for Peruvian Independence Day this Tuesday (July 28) is La Cofradia Ceviche Bar, located at 160 Andalusia Avenue in Coral Gables (305-914-1300; www.lacofradia.com). Chef/owner Jean Paul Desmaison has planned an extravaganza starting at lunchtime. Ana Kohler will sing and play the traditional sounds of the Andes. Sample complimentary hors’ d’oeuvres including beef heart anticuchos, crab causa, pulpo al olivo, pork and grapes, and of course the restaurant’s namesake ceviches, all marinated in Leche de Tigre – lime juice and peppers. It wouldn’t be a fiesta without a taste of pisco sour, the national drink of Peru. So come for free samples and lots of fun.

Submitted by Gertrude Lerner from Pembroke Pines FL 33027

Q: Can you send me a copy of the menu at Benihana. I am interested in knowing the price range

Answered 07/23/09 05:04:00 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Gertrude: On Benihana's website (www.benihna.com) the menu has no prices. But some research I have done indicates entrees are between $17, for chicken, and $32, for steak. Full meals with soup, salad, vegetables and green tea can be had for between $26 and $43. If you call them, I am sure they would be happy to send you an actual menu from the Miami location: 1665 79th Street Cswy, North Bay Vlg, FL‎ - (305) 866-2768‎ It is a super fun place for kids. Mine love watching the blades flashing and the flames dancing. Enjoy

Submitted by Peter from Miami

Q: Hi Victoria, my parents are coming next week and they stay at the new W South Beach.I have reservation for Talula, Prime 112 and Scarpetta, but I heard that the new restaurant Solea at The W is very good. Can you give me some advice about this restaurant. Thank you Peter.

Answered 07/23/09 04:51:00 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hi, Peter All the restaurants you named are very good. I, too have heard good things about Solea but as it is so new I have not been yet. I usually wait at least a month or more before reviewing a restaurant. Let me know what you think! Thanks

Submitted by Cory from Miami

Q: Hi Victoria I just moved to south beach a few months ago I need to take my wife out for our anniversary, i would like to know which restaurant in south beach you think is the most romantic one. I'm looking for good food great service and the best ambiance, my budget is around $200.00 for two. I heard of Vita, casa tua, Blue door and Wish Please let me know which one i should choose and why Please help me!!!!! Thank you Cory

Answered 07/16/09 15:16:58 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Cory: I can highly recommend the very lovely Casa Tua (1700 James Ave.; 305-673-1010; www.casatualifestyle.com) where the gorgeous private villa setting is one of Miami Beach's most romantic. Chef Sergio Sigala is very talented and the quality of ingredients superior. Do let them know that it is a special occasion. Enjoy

Submitted by Penelope from Barcelona

Q: I´m going to Miami beach with 5 girls more (we are 36 years old) but we need to know trendy places for having a drink (like Delanos'')but with no teenagers and also, at what time do we have to go out aprox?? thanks a lot

Answered 07/16/09 15:09:49 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Penelope: As a woman around your age I confess to feeling a bit over the hill here on youth-centirc South Beach. Here you find very, very young girls at almost all the clubs and restaurants. But one spot you might be able to find a crowd more our age is Meat Market on Lincoln Road (915 Lincoln Rd., (305) 532-0088, www.meatmarketmiami). Sardinia (1801 Purdy Ave., 305-531-2228; www.sardinia-ristorante.com) is actually another super spot for grown up fun. You can have fabulous wines and cocktails there or check out their new pizza place upstairs called Casales.

Submitted by Kanani from Miami, FL

Q: I am trying to plan my sister-in-laws bridal shower for october 2009. I am anticipating 20 people and I do not want to spend more than $800 on this shower. Can you help me find an outside location/restaurants that can fit my budget. Thanks.

Answered 07/16/09 15:01:02 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: You can get a lot of bang for your buck with Middle Eastern food, much of which is vegetarian. Best bet would be Maroosh (223 Valencia Ave., Coral Gables; 305-476-9800; www.maroosh.com) for a really elegant and authentic setting and fantastic food. Manager Samir is very friendly and accommodating. Check on-line for group prices and menu selections. With prices this reasonable, you might even have enough left over for a belly dancer.

Submitted by Lisa from Toms River, NJ

Q: My husband and I are going to be in miami for our 24rth anniversay. We are going on a cruise, but will be staying for one day in the bayside market place area. (4th street to be exact) - so we will not be driving. Can you suggest a good cuban restuant for lunch and a very romantic resturant for dinner in the area? We also would like to take a horse and carriage ride to the romantic one -is that possible?

Answered 07/14/09 22:55:23 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Well, for lunch you are in luck because the Latin America Cafe on the first floor of the Bayside Marketplace (305-381-77740 is a perfectly good spot to sample Cuban food. A romantic dinner in the area is a bit tougher. It's tough to find any really great food in that area, especially anything that might be reachable by horse and carriage. You can try Area 31 at The Epic for super seafood and a great view. You'll need to take a cab though (207 Biscayne Blvd., 305-424-5234). Congrats

Submitted by Ashley from Fort Lauderdale

Q: I am a native of Fort Lauderdale. I now live in North Carolina, but my fiance and I are coming in town for a weekend. I would like to take him to a nice place to hear live jazz music. Can you give me any suggestions?

Answered 07/14/09 22:03:18 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Good cafes with live jazz are dwindling but I suggest you call the Dive Bar at 33rd Street and A1A (954-565-9264) to see what they have going on. You can usually find solid jazz on Wednesday nights and sometimes on weekends, too.

Submitted by Laurie from Port St. Lucie, FL

Q: I would like to take out of town guests to dinner at a restaurant in the Miami area that has good food and live music, what can you suggest? Thanks!

Answered 07/03/09 12:21:44 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: For a lovely weekend evening of food and music, check out a local's favorite in downtown at Perricone's Marketplace & Cafe 15 SE 10th St Miami, FL 305-374-9449 http://perricones.com. Call to see who is playing.