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Miami, Florida 33131

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Contact:Media Relations, 305/539-3084, 800/955-3646 (U.S./Canada)

WHET YOUR APPETITE YEAR ROUND IN MIAMI

(MIAMI) Vacationers flock to Greater Miami and the Beaches for glorious weather, sizzling nightlife and the dynamic fusion of cultures that fuels the metropolis. A sexy, modern city as well as an international resort destination, Miami's cultural diversity and sophistication are integral to the city's ascendancy as a serious culinary destination. Attracting the attention of acclaimed restaurateurs and critics, Miami plays host to a year round slate of prestigious wine and food events, and is home to a breathtaking array of see-and-be-seen restaurants featuring cutting-edge design and innovative cuisine. Over 6,000 dining spots cater to an increasingly sophisticated resident population as well as the more than 10 million visitors who consumed over $3 billion worth of delicious meals in Miami restaurants in 2001. From casual alfresco cafes perfect for people watching, to palaces of haute cuisine, Miami is a full-fledged culinary hot spot, with a flavor-packed menu filled with spicy and delicious options.

Fabulous Festivals and Events

On the heels of last year's wildly successful debut, this August the city's top restaurants plan to take part in the second annual Miami Spice Restaurant Month. More than 60 of the city's finest dining destinations participated in this event last year, which enticed culinary visitors and residents with incredible savings on three-course meals ($29.99 for dinner and $19.99 for lunch). Also on tap for 2003, the 2nd Annual South Beach Wine and Food Festival presented by Food & Wine Magazine, scheduled to take place February 28, 2003 to March 2, 2003, is shaping up into a must-attend forum for serious foodies. The celebrity meter will be dialed on high, as the most prominent figures in the culinary and wine and spirits industries travel to Miami for a jam-packed weekend of tastings, star-studded dinners, and culinary seminars. Local chefs will share their kitchens with guest celebrity chefs including Daniel Boulud, Eric Ripert and Todd English at spectacular dinners featuring wines provided by the industry's top producers. The weekend culminates in the Grand Tasting and Auction, featuring 2000 American and international wine and spirits producers from 16 countries along with more than 100 of South Florida's top restaurants and special guests chefs from the Basque Region offering samples of their signature dishes. Looking very much like a tropical cousin to the renowned Aspen Food and Wine Festival, the SoBe festival, which raises funds for Florida International University's School of Hospitality Management, should effectively heighten Miami's culinary profile. Another not to be missed wine event, the Annual Biltmore Great South Florida Wine Festival, takes place every April at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. Ranked the nation's sixth largest wine fest by Wine Spectator, the 2002 event raised more than $1 million for charity and drew more than 4,000 attendees.

New World Cuisine: The Birth of a Culinary Philosophy

The idea of Miami as a culinary destination was born more than fifteen years ago, along with a new style of cooking -- "New World" cuisine (also known as Florribean, Tropical Fusion and Nuevo Latino). A trio of star chefs dubbed the "Mango Gang," a.k.a. Mark Militello (Mark's South Beach), Allen Susser (Chef Allen's) and Norman Van Aken, (Norman's, and the soon to open Mundo at Merrick Park) pioneered this contemporary cuisine, which combines the freshest local ingredients and influences from the Caribbean and Latin America with time-honored European cooking techniques. High in flavor and low in fat, Florribean cuisine showcases clean flavors derived from ingenious combinations of fresh seafood and tropical fruits and vegetables. Local waters offer a bounty of fresh seafood including snapper, grouper, lobster, stone crabs, shrimp and conch. Exotic fruits and spices grown in Miami's backyard in the agricultural breadbasket of South Dade include citrus, yuca, mango, chermoya, hearts of palm, avocado, guava, papaya, coconut, banana, cilantro, ginger, garlic, coriander and scotch bonnet peppers. Intriguing combinations are simply prepared: marinated, grilled and steamed to create dishes that delight the palate. "Mango Gang" members have received their industry's highest honors and distinctions, authored cookbooks, created empires and product lines. They continue to hold diners in thrall, constantly refining and re-inventing this seminal cuisine, all the while inspiring a new generation of talented young chefs.

The Next Generation

Universally lauded as a rising culinary star, Miami-born Michelle Bernstein takes center stage at Azul, dazzling diners with her signature style that blends Latin, Asian and Caribbean flavors with classic French influences at the Mandarin Oriental, Miami. Azul, the hotel's signature restaurant, was recently awarded the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award -- the first restaurant in Miami to attain this impressive distinction. Another chef to keep an eye on, Tim Andriola, trained with both Chef Allen and Mark Militello. Drawing raves while serving as executive chef at Militello's Miami restaurant, Mark's South Beach, Andriola helped the restaurant garner a best new restaurant nod from Bon Appetit. He will open his own Sunny Isles solo venture, Timo in February 2003.

Attracting attention since relocating to Miami in 2001 is Michael Reidt and his sensual, fresh as an ocean breeze, French-Brazilian cuisine at Wish, the romantic Todd Oldham-designed indoor/outdoor gem at the jewelbox boutique property, The Hotel. In fact, it is at Miami's luxury resorts and chic boutique hotels that many of Miami's most talented young chefs are weaving their culinary magic in dramatic settings. Visitors and residents alike are abuzz about Willis Loughhead's cuisine at the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove's Biscaya Grill, while The Blue Door at the Delano is a regular haunt for visiting celebrities including Robert De Niro and Jennifer Lopez. Nobu at the ultra chic Shore Club is one of Miami's most exemplary dining experiences, while the new Metro Kitchen and Bart Astor Place features Bambu veteran chef Rob Boone in the kitchen. Pao, a project of cb5, known for opening successful restaurants in top hotels across America, will offer updated Cantonese classics indoors and at poolside cabanas when it opens at the elegant Clinton Hotel in February.

Important Imports

Miami's rising star has attracted restaurateurs from around the world, drawn to the city's hip and diverse dining scene. The perfect market for outposts of restaurants that have enjoyed success in other cities, Miami has its fair share of thriving New York imports: Including Japanese/Peruvian/Brazilian hybrid SUSHISamba Dromo, locals' favorite Joe Allen, the groovy Bond St. Lounge and the ever-popular China Grill. New York's premiere glatt kosher steak house, Prime Grill identified Aventura for its only offshoot, while a Los Angeles import, the cheerfully hip 24-hour mega eatery, Jerry's Famous Deli serves up massive bowls of matzo ball soup to hungry South Beach patrons at 2 a.m. La Broche, a Michelin two- star from Madrid featuring ultra-creative Spanish cuisine, opened its first U.S. branch in downtown Miami last year. Scheduled to open in January 2003, Cafeteria, which redefined modern comfort cuisine in New York, will occupy 8,000 square feet on Lincoln Road, featuring sprawling indoor/outdoor seating and a relaxing rooftop lounge. Equal parts upscale diner and scenester nightspot, Cafeteria will exude its unique brand of casual chic 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Eat Drink and Be Merry

With its legendary nightlife driven by the fashion and entertainment industries, Miami is at the forefront of the culinary trend towards blending dining and entertainment experiences. As music pulses and celebrities flit from banquette to banquette, it is extraordinary cuisine that takes center stage at four star spots like Tantra and Touch, and more recent entrees to the fray, including 60s retro-hip Pearl and Rumi. By the time diners are enjoying coconut crème brulee or guava cheesecake, the music begins to pick up and the cocktails flow with more regularity. Meanwhile, at B.E.D. diners recline on, what else? Beds, while supping on gourmet cuisine. Miami's party planner extraordinaire, Barton G. has opened his own eponymous restaurant, employing the same extreme attention to detail that has powered his successful special event business.

Almost every cuisine under the sun can be found in Miami -- Cuban, Haitian, Vietnamese, Colombian, Peruvian, Thai, Japanese, Italian, German, Greek, Irish, Argentine, Russian, Indian, Honduran, Brazilian, Jamaican, the list goes on. In the mood for meat? Top-rated steakhouses like Christy's, Smith and Wollensky's, Mortons, the Palm and Capital Grille dot the dining landscape. Feel like enjoying a cappuccino and watching rollerbladers whiz by -- alfresco cafes are a quintessential part of any Miami dining experience --from Ocean Drive's famed News Café to Coconut Grove's legendary Green Street Café. Meanwhile, Joe's Stone Crabs, a Miami institution, opened for its 90th season this past October -- and there's still a two- hour wait for a table most nights. From New World specialties like Norman Van Akens's popcorn crusted crispy shrimp with warm citrus mojo to Jonathan Eismann's lobster pancake at Pacific Time; from guava pastels in Little Havana to pastrami on rye at Rascal House, Miami's culinary scene presents an ever-expanding cornucopia of delectable choices.

Throughout the year Miami hosts a multitude of outdoor culinary events that speak your cultural language. Any time you choose to come to Miami there’s something going on:

JANUARY 2003:

3RD ANNUAL MIAMI JAZZ FESTIVAL AND TASTE OF MIAMI IN THE GROVE (Jan.11) – The 3rd Annual Miami Jazz Festival will take place in conjunction with the Taste of Miami in the Grove, transforming Peacock Park into a hip "Jazz Village with top area restaurants and top quality, international jazz performers. Live performances include contemporary jazz, traditional jazz, Latin jazz, blues, and gospel! 2828 McFarlane Road. MEDIA CONTACT: Al Johnson, 305/858-8545.

THE MIAMI BEACH INTERNATIONAL WORLD OF BEER FESTIVAL (Jan. 31 – Feb. 2) – Sample from hundreds of beers and signature dishes from South Florida’s finest restaurants. Features beer appreciation and crafting seminars. Between 6th and 8th Streets along Ocean Drive (Miami Beach – Art Deco District/South Beach) Melissa Frantz, 305/754-5886.

FEBRUARY 2003:

CARNAVAL MIAMI (Feb. 28 – March 9) –- Miami’s Latin flavor takes center stage for this major annual celebration, which includes Carnaval Miami 8K Challenge, Carnaval International and Calle Ocho, attracting more than one million people. Ten days of sports, concerts, food and a musical frenzy in the world’s largest block party! Various Locations. MEDIA CONTACT: Sylvia Vieta, 305/644-8888.

SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL (Feb. 28 – Mar. 2) – Three full days of spectacular tastings, a star-studded dinner series and wine, culinary and lifestyle seminars that will feature prominent figures in the international wine, spirits and culinary industries. Located in the heart of South Beach. MEDIA CONTACT: Terry Zarikian, 305/573-0666.

MARCH 2003:

ASIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL (Mar. 1 – 2) – A celebration of more than 15 Asian cultures featuring music, dance, arts and crafts, exhibits, demonstrations and food. Children will receive an Asian passport and get it stamped as they visit the different Asian Countries throughout the festival. Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave. MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Rollins, 305/247- 5727.

21th ANNUAL ITALIAN RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL (March 13-16) –- Colorful pageantry, costumes, music, jugglers and jesters, strolling minstrels, Madrigal singers and the Living Chess Game combine with the majesty of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens to create a magical journey back in time to the romance of the Italian Renaissance. Features exotic merchandise, vendors, food courts, psychics, magicians and an Italian flag-throwing team. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 S. Miami Ave., Coconut Grove. MEDIA CONTACT: Bill Sims, 305/758-4595.

COCONUT GROVE FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL: (Mar.15 – 16) – Enjoy samplings from area restaurants and entertainment by local and national music acts – all set against the backdrop of Biscayne Bay, Downtown Coconut Grove. MEDIA CONTACT: Ray Steinman, 954/862-2000.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY IRISH FESTIVAL (Mar. 15) – Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with live Irish music, dancers, and food. Ponce Circle Park, 2810 Ponce de Leon Blvd. (Coral Gables) MEDIA CONTACT: Edward S. Cooke, 305/576-8462.

APRIL 2003:

ANNUAL BILTMORE GREAT SOUTH FLORIDA WINE FESTIVAL (Apr.11-13) –- This 5th annual charity event, noted as one of the top wine events in the country, celebrates fine wine and cutting-edge cuisine. Proceeds benefit the United Way. The Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables. MEDIA CONTACT: Ivonne Perez Suarez, 305/445-8066 ext. 2340.

5TH ANNUAL ARGENTINIAN FESTIVAL (Apr. 27) - One of the largest Argentinean festivals showcasing Argentinean music and culture. Enjoy authentic cuisine and art from Argentina. Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd. MEDIA CONTACT: Enrique Cojen, 305/358-9911.

MAY 2003:

MIAMI/BAHAMAS GOOMBAY FESTIVAL (May 30 – June 9) –- Goombay transforms Coconut Grove into Nassau’s Bay Street as colorful costumed junkanoo groups dance down Grand Avenue to Caribbean rhythms, with rake ‘n scrape instruments ranging from drums and whistles, to cowbells and combs. Features a wide variety of arts, crafts, food and drinks from more than 400 vendors. Coconut Grove. MEDIA CONTACT: Susan Newman 305/372-9966. Backup: Marsha Jackman, 305/349-5943.

JUNE 2003:

REDLAND FARM AND GARDEN SHOW (June 7 – 8) – Old time farm show features antique tractors, flywheel engines, local herbs, fruit trees and plants, garden accessories and fresh produce. Cooking demonstrations by some of South Florida's best chefs will highlight local produce. Homemade ice cream made from local tropical fruit is available. Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave. MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Rollins, 305/247- 5727.

JULY 2003:

AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY BASH ‘03 (July 4) –- One of South Florida’s largest multicultural extravaganzas attracts more than 100,000 revelers. Entertainment features Latin headliners, rock n’ roll superstars, Jazz, Big Band and folk artists. Features fireworks, a laser show petting zoo, arts and crafts, amusement rides and international foods. Bayfront Park, 401 N. Biscayne Blvd., Downtown Miami. MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Sánchez, 305/358-7550.

11th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL MANGO FESTIVAL (July 12 – 13) – A series of delightful mango events – Mango Morning, Mango Workshops, Mango Brunch and a Mango Auction. Fairchild Tropical Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., South Miami. MEDIA CONTACT: Suzanne Kores, 305/667-1651 ext. 3323.

AUGUST 2003:

MIAMI SPICE: RESTAURANT MONTH (Aug. 1 - 31)– The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and American Express are teaming up to promote Miami Spice: Restaurant Month, serving up incredible meals at our best restaurants at special prices during the whole month of August. MEDIA CONTACT: 305/539-3084.

SEPTEMBER 2003:

BRAZILIAN FESTIVAL (Sep. 7) – A celebration of Brazilian culture and cuisine. The festival will feature live music and art displays. Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd. MEDIA CONTACT: Claudia Santana, 305/358-9911.

OCTOBER 2003:

3rd ANNUAL STONE CRAB AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL (Oct. 18 – 19) – Outdoor seafood festival offering gourmet food, drinks, music and games – activities for all ages. Ocean Terrace, Collins Avenue at 73rd Street (Miami Beach) MEDIA CONTACT: Christina Fernández, 305/865-4147.

19th ANNUAL MIAMI REGGAE FESTIVAL (Oct. 25 – 26) A two-day festival filled with reggae singers and groups. Arts, crafts and food booths round out entertainment. Bayfront Park Amphitheater, 301 Biscayne Blvd. (Downtown Miami Area) MEDIA CONTACT: Eddie Edwards, 305/891-2944.

FESTIVAL OF THE AMERICAS: (Oct. 26) – Giant street party presenting Latin musical headliners in concert, folkloric group performances, food, games and a sports area with celebrities and games. Along Sunset Drive between US Highway 1 and SW 57th Avenue (South Miami Area) MEDIA CONTACT: 305/541-5023

NOVEMBER 2003:

EXPONICA: THE FAIR OF THE AMERICAS (Nov. 7 – 9) – Multicultural exposition and festival showcasing a variety of Hispanic heritages. Features local and international performers, arts and crafts, traditional dances, and ethnic food. Fair Expo Center, 10901 Coral Way (south of Sweetwater) MEDIA CONTACT: Maria Trabreiso, 305/227-3494.

DECEMBER 2003:

MICCOSUKEE ANNUAL INDIAN ARTS FESTIVAL (Dec. 26, 2003 – Jan. 1, 2004) – American Indian artisans from all over the Continental Americas gather in the unique setting of the Miccosukee Indian Village. Costumed Indian dancers will be featured, along with alligator wrestling and an assortment of authentic Indian crafts and foods. Miccosukee Indian Village, 27 Miles west of the Florida Turnpike on Southwest 8th Street. MEDIA CONTACT: Debra Tiger, 305/223-8380 ext. 2272.

BAYFRONT PARK'S NEW YEAR'S EVE (Dec. 31) - The largest New Year’s Eve event south of Times Square features musical entertainment, family activities, a variety of ethnic foods, a laser and fireworks extravaganza, and the 400-foot ascent of the 35-foot neon Big Orange to the top of the Hotel Inter-Continental. Bayfront Park Amphitheater, 401 N. Biscayne Blvd., downtown Miami. MEDIA CONTACT: 305/358-7550.

For information on the above and a listing of all Miami's culinary hotspots and events, visit The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau is a non-profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and the Beaches for leisure, business and conventions. For a vacation guide, visit our website or call toll-free at 888-76-MIAMI (US/Canada only) or call 305-447-7777. To contact the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau offices call 305-539-3000.

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