Submitted by E from Miami Beach

Q: I am looking for a place to host a luncheon for 21 next week. I would like to get the best rate with a nice view. My buget would be about 20 or 15 per person. Could please tell me where on the beach I could find something like this? Thanks,

Answered 11/13/09 14:00:16 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey, E Well, on South Beach, you'll be lucky to find a spot where you can park for $15 a person! But, if you seriously want a nice lunch for less than $20 a head, you will most likely have to give up the water view. Still, there's plenty to look at from a chair at Tirmesu on LIncoln Road. Contact owner Graziano Sbroggio for details of a lunch for your group. 721 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach, FL 33139-2813 (305) 532-4538 Also on Lincoln Road is the very tasty and reasonable Book & Books Cafe in case your friends have a literary bent. 933 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach, FL 33139-2601 (305) 695-8898 www.booksandbooks.com Otherwise, you may want to consider Barolo. It's beach front and in the lobby of nice Ocean Drive Hotel but doesn't really include a view. Of course, your guests could always stroll along the sand after their meal. Barolo Ristorante www.barolomiami.com 444 Ocean Dr Miami Beach, FL 33139-6614 (305) 532-5511 Do let me know how you do. Cheers, Victoria

Submitted by Rosie from San Francisco, CA

Q: Hi We're going to be in Miami for 11 days over Thanksgiving timeframe. What are top must do restaurants? We favor steak, spanish foods, pasta. Seafood is ok if can also get the above at same place. We've made some notes based on past q&a we've read here. Thx! Rosie

Answered 11/05/09 13:59:35 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hey Rosie. You’ve picked a great time to enjoy Miami’s food scene. There are some great newcomers to the scene as well as some classics. On the southern tip of South Beach you can find great steaks and views at Smith & Willensky (1 Washington Ave., 305-673-2800; www.smithandwollensky.com). Of course, you do have to go to the venerable Joe’s Stone Crab (11 Washington Ave., 305-673-0365; www.joesstonecrab.com) if only for a slice of key lime pie and history. On the mainland we love Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink (130 NE 40th St., 305-573-5550; www.michaelsgenuine.com) and right across the street Michelle Bernstein’s spectacular Sra Martinez for delightful Spanish tapas and fantastic cocktails. Another nice twist on Greek food is EOS At The Viceroy Miami (485 Brickell Ave.; 305-503-4400; www.viceroymiami.com). Also, you’ll see from my previous posts that I love Sardinia and Casale. For a typical Cuban experience, don't miss Versailles or El Palacio de los Jugos.

Submitted by Ana from Miami

Q: Victoria, I read the terrible review of Gotham Steak earlier this summer, any idea if it has improved? Thanks!

Answered 10/19/09 14:18:02 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: In fact, they have got a new and talented chef in the kitchen John Suley and have, I've been told, been tweaking their service. I haven't been back but I bet they've improved over these past months. If you go, let me know how you do.

Submitted by Mark from Ft. Lauderdale,FL

Q: Can you tell me a restaurant that serves Beef Wellington in Broward County and can you find out an expected opening date for the Buffalo Wild Wings at the Dolphin Mall and if any stores are planned for Broward County?

Answered 10/19/09 14:16:41 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Wow! I have been getting the most throwback requests lately: Beef Wellington joins Caesar salad and lobster thermidor as ones that came in over the past couple of weeks. Must be a recessionary trend toward comforting classics! Sounds like a trend. In Broward, you can head to Le Café de Paris—when it reopens at the end of the month--for the cozy little puff pastry encased specialty cosseted in a creamy mushroom sauce. The much-loved little café has been a fixture on Las Olas (715 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-467-2900) since the Kennedy administration. As for wings, the Dolphin Mall locale is slated to open some time next month. But meanwhile, head to Cutler bay for your fix (20505 S Dixie Highway; 305-238-8850). Sorry to say, no locations are currently in the works in Broward. Keep checking www.buffalowildwings.com for updates.

Submitted by Richard Perhla from Davie, Florida

Q: Do you know of a restaurant in South Florida that serves Lobster Thermidor?

Answered 10/13/09 14:38:32 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: It’s true that that decadently rich and creamy classic has nearly disappeared from area menus in place of more healthful cholesterol-free delights but there are still a few spots you can find it: The sweet Nicaraguan spot Selva Negra (2025 West Flagler Street; 305-642-6036) for one offers it. Occasionally, Le P'tit Paris (3105 Commodore Plz., Coconut Grove; 305-445-7331) Puts it on special. Call to ask. ###

Submitted by Andrew from Miami Beach

Q: Hi Victoria, I really like your reviews every Thursday. How about the restaurants at W South Beach (Solea and Mr. Chow). The hotel is beautiful. I would like to go to one of the restaurant. What do you recommend? Thank you

Answered 10/13/09 13:51:05 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hi, Andrew: Thanks. The long-awaited W is really a stunner. So are the prices! At Mr. Chow you can have an exquisite meal with over-the-top service and scene. I've held off reviewing it for a bit waiting for it to calm down and for season to get into swing. It is the IT restaurant right now on The Beach. At Solea next door, the fantastically fresh seafood I sampled on one visit was really excellent as well but the dining room was utterly sleepy. I think we were one of two tables on a Thursday night. I heard word that they are revamping their menu--spinning it into a tapas spot. That is why I've held off on that one as well. We'll see. Keep your eyes open for both reviews in the coming months.

Submitted by Ruthe Freeman from miami

Q: I love your reviews they're not only informative but make me laugh. Have you reviewed Sardinia on Purdy Avenue? I ate there the other nite. I'll say no more, until I hear from you. Regards, Ruthie

Answered 10/06/09 13:08:47 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Ruthie: I have indeed reviewed Sardinia back when it first opened in 2007 (http://www.miami.com/sardinia). I loved it then and have been back many times for my favorite dishes. I have heard reports that some people find it inconsistent. But I have always loved their selection of Sardinian wines, the antipasto and the good looking waiters!! I also adore its new sister, Casale next door.

Submitted by Shelley Costin from Aventura, FL

Q: I tried sending you a personal e-mail velliott@MiamiHerald.com and it came back "failure." Please contact me so I can re-send this e-mail about Sara and Harry. Cannot wait to re-connect with you. I read your reviews all the time...

Answered 10/02/09 10:47:44 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Thanks, Shelley: The system has been down. But I think it should be working now. Thanks for your note. Victoria

Submitted by Anonymous

Q: VICTORIA, CAN YOU RECCOMEND A FEW CASUAL WINE BARS FOR THE GIRLS OVER 40 TO GRAB A CELIBITORY DRINK AFTER WORK, THAT HAS NICE ATMOSPHER,IS NOT A MEAT MARKET, WITHIN 8-10 MILES OF MIAMI INT'L AIRPORT? AND, IN THE BUDGET RANGE OF SOMEONE WHO DIDN'T HIT SATURDAY'S LOTTO? THANKS FOR YOUR HELP. DEB

Answered 10/02/09 10:46:45 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Hi, Deb Check out my response to Veronica above or at www.miamiherald.com/dining and also check out www.localwineevents.com for a complete listing of wine and spirits events in town.

Submitted by Veronica from Miami

Q: Victoria I have a friend coming to town who is really into good wines. She does not drink cocktails at all and always gets frustrated when we go to clubs where the wines are warm or weird or just plain bad. I want to impress her this time with my knowledge. Any thoughts on where we can go for drinks (of the grape variety) that also has good food and a fun vibe?

Answered 10/02/09 10:42:57 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Veronica: I’ve got two great options for you: The first is a hideaway in Midtown Miami located under the overpass where you would never find it if you weren’t watching out for it The space is cozy and inviting with warm woods and comfy chairs and lots and lots of wines and bins around. But the food is the real reason to come. The tapas is made by the very talented Venezuelan Chef Alfredo Patino who makes the kind of subtle, simple fare that wins raves. Bin No. 18 1800 Biscayne Blvd Ste 107 Miami, FL 33132 786- 235-7575 www.bin18miami.com They have all kinds of specials, including buy one get one happy hours and free wine tastings on Thursdays. Call to check. On Miami Beach, you cannot go wrong at D’Vine, a lovely hookah bar with cheap drinks and a fun crowd. D’Vine 445 Lincoln Rd Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 534-1414 www.dvinelounge.com

Submitted by Andrew from Brickell

Q: Hi Victoria, I am looking for an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch, on the water, in or near Miami, with drinks included in the price. I like the idea of being able to eat and drink, and then hang by the pool or on the beach for the rest of the day. Any suggestions? Obviously price is a factor, but I am open to options. Thanks!

Answered 09/03/09 14:34:15 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Have I got a spot for you! In addition to the bottomless Bellinis, mimosas and bloodys made with hand squeezed juices, Scarpetta's Sunday brunch from 11 o’clock until 2:30 also includes a buffet of Conant’s signature dishes, like creamy polenta with truffle mushroom fricassee, scrambled eggs w/ pancetta & provolone as well as second courses such as grilled octopus or beer braised short ribs served tableside. Price is a super reasonable $49.95 (the price of an entrée at some of the hotel’s other properties). Kids under ten pay half that. Valet parking is even free til the end of the month. Though, I’m not sure you want to be driving after too many of those libations. Instead, enjoy the incredible beach there for a few hours. www.fontainebleau.com/scarpetta Fontainebleau Hotel: 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 305.674.4660

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 09/01/09 14:16:00 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Yuli: If you haven't already, check out my review: www.miami.com/eos-article I really loved it! The decor is a bit odd and the seats uncomfortable but the food really is excellent.

Submitted by peg evans from biscayne park

Q: Thank you so much for your answer! It's perfect. I drive by the Little Havana restaurant every day, but never thought about it! Thank you! Peg Evans

Answered 09/01/09 14:13:59 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: You are very welcome. Let me know how it turns out.

Submitted by Sara from Betancourt

Q: Hi Victoria, I went last saturday to Mr.Chow at the new W Hotel and was good with great ambiance but is very expensive. I will like try the other restaurant Solea but I don't want to take the risk before to ask you. Thank you

Answered 09/01/09 14:12:52 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Sara: To tell you the truth Solea at The W is on my list but I have not been yet. I hear it is as you good as you say, but also very pricey. I'd suggest sticking with the Miami Spice program while it lasts (until the end of the month). Some Miami Beach newcomers worth checking out include BLT Steak, Essensia, Scarpetta, Meat Market and Gia at the Eden Roc. See: www.ilovemiamispice.com for the full list of participants.

Submitted by Kymberly Ando from Arlington, Va

Q: I'm traveling with a group of 15 to Miami for my best friend's 30th birthday celebration in mid-September. We were hoping to dine at an ultra sassy place Friday night and a sassy yet more affordable place on Saturday night. My bf requested some place with chips and salsa but I'm not finding it (he's classy I know). We'll be staying at the Eden Roc on Collins and proximity is important. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated.

Answered 08/24/09 14:36:37 by Victoria Pesce Elliott

A: Dear Kymberly: Well, the great news that you are right next door to the Fonatinebleau where there are some top-notch restaurants and a great nightclub, LIV. And, even better, you are still in the middle of Miami Spice Promotion when you and your friends can enjoy great discounts. Just call first because some restaurants, including Hakkasan , does not honor the promotion for groups larger than six. My favorite there is Scarpetta, Scottt Conant's amazing Italian. Other than that, consider a trip to Lincoln Road for a meal at The Meat Market or over on the bay for Asia de Cuba in the Mondrian. You can find them all listed on the ilovemiamispice.com website. For the more affordable scene, I am sure you will love Casale (305-763-8088), the mozzarella bar and pizzeria attached to Sardinia or the brand new Burger & Beer Joint ((305) 672-3287) across the street Enjoy.