Submitted by Carol from Miami Beach

Q: Dear Victoria, we have been following chef Klime Kovaceski for a number of years and was looking forward to seeing him once again, when we returned from our vacation. Now we hear that he is no longer at Trio on the bay. Do you know or have you heard what he may be doing next? -Thank you

Answered 09/20/11 12:35:48 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Carol: He recently wrote to me in an email that he is happily working as a "Miami based consultant" in the ever-exciting world of restaurants. I expect we will see his name popping up soon in a new spot--either behind the scenes or behind the stoves.

Submitted by EM Loveman from Miami

Q: I've been looking for some some time for the old time Jewish butter cookies. They are small bite sized morsels, some topped with cherries, others with sprinkles, or chocolate drop centers. Some with double shells sandwiched with raspberry or chocolate. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. I live in South Florida, and we had many of these type of bakeries in the past (Andalusia, Giralda, Gold Seal, Glorified, Goodies), however, they have long closed, and we now mostly have Hispanic Bakeries. I'm sure there are some of these old time Jewish style bakeries left that still make the cookies I'm looking for. I've tried to search with Google, but with no success. If you know of the type of bakeries I'm looking for, I'd appreciate your assistance. Epicure Market on South Beach has an excellent bakery department, and do carry a very limited few of the type of butter cookies I'm looking for, however, their selection is very limited. Thanks so much, EM Loveman

Answered 09/19/11 12:43:22 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear EM Loveman: It really is a pity that so many of Miami's old-fashioned Jewish delis and bakeries have disappeared. Still, I think you will find what you are looking for at Extravaganza Bakery in Aventura (20808 Biscayne Blvd.; 305-466-7724). Extravaganza has linzer cookies filled with raspberry or apricot jam and those sweet flower shaped cookies with chocolate. Look at their website or make a trip there to see: http://www.extravaganzapastry.com/cookies.html. For a smaller collection on Miami Beach you can try Kastner’s (700 Arthur Godfrey Rd.; 305- 535-2255) which does have the sweet little flower-shaped butter cookies with the chocolate and cherry centers.

Submitted by Elena from Coconut Grove

Q: Dear Victoria, I love cracked conch, spicy mac & cheese & all the delicous food from the Bahamas...yet have to wait for the once a year Goombay Festival to enjoy it. Do you have suggestions for a good authentic place in Miami? Thank you

Answered 09/12/11 23:27:13 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: My favorite Bahamian spot is Chef Creole's in North Miami (http://chefcreole.com/chefcreole/home.php). You may not find mac and cheese on his every day menu but if you call him, I bet he would make it for you. He is a real character. And, man can he cook! I love his conch chowder and Haitian griot.

Submitted by Donald Thompson from Cutler Bay, FL

Q: Are there any places in Miami-Dade County (preferably not on Miami Beach) that serve a truly excellent breakfast (not brunch), with some elements of originality or homemade elements that put them over the top? I'm thinking of the type of place that makes their own sausage or corned beef hash, or has truly gourmet fillings for rolled omelets, etc. Not the kind of place that uses canned hollandaise sauce or the like. Thank you. P.S. I have become very fond of your reviews, and am quite delighted when I find that you have reviewed a place that the town is newly abuzz about.

Answered 09/01/11 10:45:10 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Donald Thompson Dear tk While I wish I could give you an arm’s length list of great Miami spots for breakfast (for the record, my favorite meal of the day), there are precious few. Of course, all the hotels in town offer breakfast, but most are overpriced. I will as you ask, skip The Beach rec’s and offer instead tell you the couple of spots I love to go when I have a chance on the mainland. There are a half dozen good Cuban breakfast spots and even a nice Jamaican in NMB (Irie Isle) but for an All-American gourmet experience, try Michelle Bernstein’s lovely little Crumb on Parchment. It’s in an odd, but brightly lit atrium of an office building in the Design District. Breakfast might be steel cut oats, quinoa panckaes, gorgeous omelettes, crumbly scones and housemade jams. 3930 NE 2nd Ave; (305) 572-9444 In the Gables you can try the old Gables Diner for standard breakfat fare, plus a good slice of pie. 2320 Galiano St; 305-567-0330

Submitted by Helen Koenig from Hollywood, FL

Q: Victoria, I read a review of a new restaurant in the design district. The principal was Michelle Bernstein sp I have seen her on"Check Please" and I wanted to give it a try. Thank you, Helen Koenig

Answered 08/29/11 10:57:20 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Helen Koenig: You must be thinking of Crumb on Parchment It’s in an odd, but brightly lit atrium of an office building in the Design District and is the place to go for reasonably priced, delicious breakfasts or lunches. Lots of the baking is done by Michelle's mom. Breakfast might be steel cut oats, crumbly scones and housemade jams. Lunch salads, soups and great sandwiches including the croque Sra. 3930 NE 2nd Ave Miami, FL 33137 (305) 572-9444

Submitted by J. Loof III from Daytona Beach FL

Q: where is the best soul food restaurant on miami beach ?

Answered 08/25/11 14:38:57 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear J.: Historically, South Beach has not had much by way of Soul Food. I used to suggest driving over the bridge to Jackson's or Jumbo's, but now you can get your collard greens and fried chicken fix as well as Sweet Potato Pie and sweet tea at the new Daddy's (http://daddysmiami.com) on 6th and Washington, right in the middle of South Beach craziness!

Submitted by Grace Della from Miami

Q: Hello Victoria, Recently a friend of mine who is quite a celebrated chef in Argentina came to visit me and he was looking for molecular cuisine in Miami and we couldn't find much. Do you have any recommendations of where I can find this type of cuisine? Thanks!

Answered 08/25/11 14:38:45 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Your chef friend must be leaving disappointed. Miamians didn't take much to the molecular thing as evidenced by the swift departure of such innovators as La Broche and Mosaico y Salero. You can find a bit of potato foam at Por Fin in Coral Gables or some nitro ice cream and cocktails at Haven on South Beach. Also, Tudor House dabbles in it a bit, but this town just thought it was too out there.

Submitted by Jennifer from Doral

Q: Dear Ms Elliott I wonder of you have any suggestions for a very casual, cheap and fun spot for Spanish tapas? Did I mention it should be inexpensive? I am going out with three or four friends I met while doing a semester in Madrid. They are coming to visit in September. We would love tapas and maybe paella and, of course, lots of red wine. I am hosting.

Answered 08/18/11 18:21:51 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Just over a year old, the charming Jamon, Jamon, Jamon (yes, three times) is one of my favorites especially for paella. Though nearly impossible to find, this dark and rustic spot off the parking garage of the NEO Lofts condominium (10 SW S River Dr., 305-324-1111) is a magnet for Spanish food lovers. Chef Felipe Perez, a native of Avila northwest of Madrid, specializes in classic rice dishes, including a delectable arroz negro, a paella-like black rice dish especially popular along the Mediterranean coast with squid ink and calamari. But, you know all about that! Buen Provecho!

Submitted by Sky Wolland from North Miami, FL

Q: I was hoping to have a restaurant mention in the weekend sections Dining directory. How could i get this done? Please let me know who i could talk to in order to arrange this.

Answered 08/11/11 17:01:45 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Sky Wolland: Please send information regarding your establishment to my editor: Kathy Martin at kmartin@herald.com. We will look forward to finding out more. I cannot promise a listing but we will definitely consider it for a review or mention in the dining section. Thanks for your note.

Submitted by Maria Lieberman from Miami Beach,. Fl

Q: Hi Victoria Im Maria Lieberman, from The Dining Room. We opened up a few months ago and alot of people have been telling us to get in contact with you. Your dentist was even in here last week and told us we had to get you in here! ( so funny) Please let me know the best way to email you our recent reviews and press! We would love to have you in for dinner. Please check out our website www.diningroommiami.com or call me if you need any information at 305-397-8444. Thanks! Maria Lieberman

Answered 08/11/11 16:59:54 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Maria Lieberman I guess if even my doctors are prescribing a visit, I better get myself in there! I understood when you first opened that you were planning to have rotating chefs. hard to review. It looks like from your website that is not the case. Do send me more information via my email: vpevpe@gmail.com. I will look forward to an anonymous visit soon. Or, did my dentist tell you what I look like, too? I do have nice teeth.

Submitted by nichole from boynton beach

Q: Hi Victoria, We are coming down from Boynton Beach to try out Miami Spice this coming weekend and I was wondering your opinion on Red Steakhouse and Kane Steakhouse, food and ambiance standpoint? Thanks, Nichole

Answered 08/11/11 16:57:21 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, Nichole I think you would probably enjoy both Red or Kane Steakhouse, since both are glitzy, modern steakhouses specializing in mammoth portions of beef. Take a look at the menus on line though. You will definitely get a better value at Kane, where there are not the expensive upgrades. Plus, since they are newer they seem to be trying harder.

Submitted by Aixa from Miami Beach

Q: Do you know of a restaurant in Miami or vicinity that actually has chiles en nogada on its menu? From the time I first ate chiles en nogada at a small B&B in San Miguel, MX, I have been wanting to eat it again. I have several recipes for it, but frankly, it is quite a complicated process. I would rather go out for it. Thanks!

Answered 07/28/11 21:46:07 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Aixa Chiles en Nogada, the intricate and delicious Mexican dish featuring a pepper stuffed with pork tenderloin and draped with a creamy walnut sauce is available at the delightful Jaguar and Talavera restaurants. Call to be sure it is on the menu before you book. Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar
3 (
305-444-0216) Talavera Restaurant
 (305-444-2955) Feel free to let me konw how it measures up to your homemade version.

Submitted by Eric Eden from Washington, DC

Q: Hi Victoria - We are in Miami for 5 nights starting the day after tomorrow and want to experience all that Miami has to offer. . .from a culinary standpoint. If you were to name to 5 places that we were not to miss, what would they be? We will have transportation and do not mind driving for good grub. All cuisine types (minus steak houses) are open for consideration. Thank you so much. E.

Answered 07/27/11 13:03:08 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Eric: I love to hear about ambitious diners coming to town. But, beware. There are really --I am happy to report-- probably too many places to get to in only five days. However, the really, really not to be missed selections have to include: Michael's Genuine Food & Drink (www.michaelsgenuine.com) . Chef/owner Michael Schwartz, a pioneer in The Design District and one of our most talented chefs, puts out New American favorites with integrity. He and uber pastry chef Hedy Goldsmith find the best local ingredients and do wonders with them. Across the street is Señora Martinez (www.sramartinez.com) for a Miami take on Spanish style tapas by the talented Michelle Bernstein. On South Beach, you will find Altamare (www.altamarerestaurant.com) where Simon Stojanovich prepares exquisite seafood, especially local fare like pompano, triple tail, hog snapper and more. The ceviches are fantastic as is the housemade pasta. Also for seafood, done Cuban style, consider Garcia’s (www.garciasseafoodgrill.com) on the Miami River, a spot that is getting a seriously overdue renovation. For high end seafood and fantastic sushi, there is the London import Zuma in the Epic hotel (www.zumarestaurant.com). I also adore Cecconi’s (www.cecconismiamibeach.com) at the stunning and exclusive Soho House. It’s a great Italian spot for breakfast or lunch as well as a drink before dinner. Meatball Mondays are a draw as well. At The Standard, The Lido’s bayside seating and grilled dishes is a stunning Only-In-Miami experience. www.standardhotels.com. The mecca of all things Cuban is, of course, La Pequeña Havana’s Calle Ocho where you will find dozens of great Cuban experiences including Versailles, el Esquisito, La Carreta and more. You are lucky enough to be able to catch Viernes Culturales on July 29th, the monthly arts, food and culture festival that happens on the last Friday of each month. See: www.viernesculturales.org for more details. You are also here for Miami Spice, the monthlong promo that offers three course dining at a fraction of the regular resturant prices. See: www.ilovemiamispice.com. Do take a walk on Lincoln Road for people watching and maybe a pizza at Spris, Sosta or Piola. Finally, though steakhousey, you might also consider BLT Steak at The Betsy or 1500 degrees at The Eden Roc. Two fantastic eateries in historic art deco hotels that specialize in steak but do so much more. Similarly, Bourbon Steak in the Turnberry Resort is worth a drive for so much more than meat. I know that is more than five. I warned you!

Submitted by James from Miami Beach

Q: Hello Victoria, as an avid follower of your reviews, I wanted to ask if you've yet been to the Dining Room? Lee Klein did a nice review of the place and it's really become popular with the residents of the condo where I work.

Answered 07/25/11 14:59:16 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, James Thanks so much for your note. I actually have not done a review (yet) though I also have been hearing good things about The Dining Room. There are so many places and only so much time and space. it's funny, that spot is just around the corner from a place once called The Living Room. I will try to check it out soon.

Submitted by Dean from South Beach

Q: Dear Victoria I live just across the street and noticed a For Sale sign on the old Nemo and Shoji bldgs in South Beach. Do you know what is going in there? I always liked those spots and would be interested to know if they are reopening as something different.

Answered 07/20/11 11:40:12 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Owner Myles Chefetz, whose phenomenally successful Prime 112, Big Pink and Prime Italian in that same SoFi nabe keep him awfully busy, says he was testing the waters to see if he got the right offer on the building. If not, he plans to go ahead with a seafood concept that has been on his mind for a while. So, keep your eyes open. We may have a Prime Fish coming to those two spaces soon. Shoji would be for private dining and Nemo would be totally redone to please pescatarians.

Submitted by MARVIN SHULMAN from MIAMI BEACH, FL

Q: Do you have any more information concerning the rumors that Morgan's Restaurant, NE 29th Street, Miami is going to occupy the space recently vacated at Joe Allen's on Purdy Street?

Answered 07/07/11 11:39:24 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Marvin Sulman Yes, the rumor is absolutely true. I spoke with the owner recently and she confirmed it. Bonus is that it's happening soon. Look for an early August opening as Morgan's on The Beach.

Submitted by Chris from NE Miami-Dade

Q: Have some friend coming from Boston for the weekend and they want to go eat at Lincoln Road. Have not been there in so long do not know what is a good restaurant. They like Italian, steaks, American, casual. Three kids are part of the group. Thanks.

Answered 06/24/11 13:26:58 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Chris Lincoln Road can be pricey and crowded, but it also offers the best people (and dog) watching in town. For your group with kids, I would suggest a few casual spots that can fit the bill. First would be Spris (www.spris.cc) for super Italian pizzas from a wood burning brick oven and a friendly staff. Otherwise, you might enjoy the fabulous Café at Books & Books (www.booksandbooks.com). A visit to South Beach is not complete without a cafecito. So, do be sure to stop at David’s Café (www.davidscafe.com) for a quick fill up of jet fuel.

Submitted by paul from miami, fl

Q: Any Chinese restaurants in south Florida with authentic Szechuan cuisine?

Answered 06/22/11 16:01:18 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Sadly, Miami just does not have enough of a Chinese population for us to get the great restaurants of Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City. However, there are some decent spots that do offer Szechuan dishes, including Lung Gong has very authentic spicy and chile hot dishes, 11920 SW 8th Street, 305-553-4644. Also, Chu's Taiwanese has a few Szechuan dishes, 2728 Ponce de Leon, Coral Gables, 786-953-7351. Lots of people adore Empire Szechuan of New York at 3427 NE 163rd Street and it is pretty good, too. I have been searching for food that I grew to love in Changsha, the capitol of the Hunan province, which is not nearly as chile-laden as Szechuan but really flavorful and full of vegetables.

Submitted by Emy from Miami, FL

Q: Hello! My dad went to school in Russia (Well actually, Kazakhstan, but it was part of the Soviet Union at the time) and he loves russian food. He makes some russian dishes that he learned while studying there, but we've never gone out to eat to a russian restaurant. I'd love to take him to one for Father's day, but I feel like we don't have many in Miami. Do you have any you'd recommend?

Answered 06/20/11 11:55:20 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Emy Sorry I did not get this over the weekend. There are many Russian restaurants in Sunny Isles. But the one I have heard the most about is called Tatiana's in Hallandale. At night it is very much a dancing cabaret, but it also serves lunch. 1710 East Hallandale Beach Blvd Hallandale, FL 33009 (954) 454-1222

Submitted by Maya Hoffman from Hallendale, FL

Q: I treat myself to fine dining, tasting menu's and a full foodie experience every once in awhile. My husband and I don't have much time to travel to the beach frequently so when we do, we go all out. Since it's a special trip, I like to make sure we don't leave disappointed. The reason I bring this up is because I wanted to know your thoughts on two restaurants. I found one on the list for yelp eats, and the other was a friend suggestion. The one on yelp eats is Pied a Terre and the other is Fratelli Lyon. Were looking for somewhere romantic, not somewhere 'to be seen.' I heard Fratelli Lyon is a little more scenester, which I don't mind if the food is delicious, but I was wondering your opinion on both restaurants. Thanks.

Answered 06/17/11 12:32:27 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: That's an easy one! Pied a Terre is definitely the more romantic and special occasion choice. This unique hideaway in the Cadet Hotel is tiny and gorgeous. The cooking is exceptional as is the service. Fratelli Lyon is a nice choice if you are in the Design District. I think of it as a more social place to go with friends to drink wine and sample some antipasti.