Vale Genta pictured with the Tagliolini from Le Zoo.
Vale Genta, @ValeGenta
Describe your favorite Summer Dish from Le Zoo.
The Tagliolini with truffle butter sauce and parmesan. This pasta is the perfect reason to forgo any dietary restrictions because it is just that good. The delicious creaminess of it with the kick of truffle keeps you wanting more and more. Is it strange to call a pasta sexy? I know truffle can be a bit overrated at times, but I will never refuse truffle because it makes everything taste better. Le Zoo figured out a way to make this pasta the perfect balance of truffle and cheese, what more can you ask for?
How would you describe your personal style?
I would describe my style as versatile, trendy and comfortable. I would say I’m more feminine in the way I dress, but truly all depends on my mood that day. I range from girly summer dress to a black-on-black sexy set. I would say I feel like my most self with a crop top and pants/shorts on. But lately, with the heat of Miami, I’ve been much more inclined to pull out some sun dresses. My closet is 75 percent basics, I think it’s so important to have those basic pieces because you could wear them multiple ways. My mom always told me, you can never go wrong with a black dress.
What’s your go-to workout for a quick and impactful sweat?
My go-to workout for a quick and impactful sweat is going on a run, whether that’s on a treadmill or outside. If you have a limited amount of time, even running one mile will get you sweating, and your body will thank you. Oh, and I always end any workout with five-minute abs: 45 seconds on, 15 seconds rest! An ab killer is the best finisher.
What are a few of your favorite Bar Harbour Shops brands?
Chloé, Chanel, Le Labo, Maria Tash, Prada and Books & Books!
Cousins Alexandra Mesa and Ryan Heisler with a sampling of crowd faves at Hillstone.
Alexandra Mesa & Ryan Heisler, @TheMiamiMenu
Describe your favorite Summer dish from Hillstone.
We love the Carolina-style beef ribs. They’re always our go-to order and never fail. The mustard barbecue is a delectable mix of both sweet and savory. Order them with a side of French fries and thank us later!
Why did it take so long to make your official reveal on social media?
We wanted The Miami Menu to be focused on food and the experience behind the restaurants and dishes we feature. Our page is still going to highlight all the food and experiences, but we are ready to personally connect with our audience and put our face on the brand we built and love.
What’s the best part about working with family?
Our favorite part aside from spending so much time together is the level of trust we have in each other. We’re able to rely on one another, and it’s been extremely fun to learn and grow something we are so passionate about together. We couldn’t imagine doing this without each other.
What has been a particularly memorable meal abroad this summer?
We traveled abroad to Israel this summer and while every meal was incredible, we both could not stop raving about the falafel from HaKosem. HaKosem offers traditional and authentic Israeli favorites with the utmost flavor. The loud music and ambiance make for a warm and familial feel. Make it your first stop in Tel Aviv!
At home, what are you most likely to prepare for a quick weekday meal?
Salmon bowls! They are simple and the most fun to get creative with. We marinate the salmon for a few hours in quality olive oil and our favorite seasonings before popping it in the oven. We typically prepare it with brown rice and serve it with a few sides like grilled veggies or avocado. We always have a bottle of cilantro lime dressing from Carrot Express in our fridge to top it off!
Juan Duran’s favorite summer dish is the Pappardelle 3 Gusti from Carpaccio.
Juan Duran, @Juanbiteatatime
Describe your favorite Summer dish from Carpaccio.
My favorite summer dish from Carpaccio is the Pappardelle 3 Gusti. It is hands down my go-to and is the one I always recommend. The pappardelle are cooked to perfection and mixed with. meat sauce, which is mouthwatering on its own, but then what I LOVE is that they take it a step further and add in a few cheeses like mozzarella and fontina, which is melted to perfection. They even add a touch of cream to the mix and it just elevates the flavors that much more. Top it with some parmesan and you’re in heaven!
So, you like sweets… What’s your absolute favorite dessert?
You know what’s funny is although I feature a lot of over-the-top desserts on my page, I’m a sucker for the classics. If I had to choose a favorite dessert, it would probably have to be a scoop or two of homemade vanilla ice cream with sprinkles. I know, pretty basic, but I think that if the ice cream is made right, you just can’t beat it. Done well, it’s going to have a great texture while still being creamy and not overly sweet. It just reminds me of my childhood and the sprinkles on top just make it that much better.
What’s your advice to an aspiring content creator?
Just do it and keep going! I think that a lot of us let fear of failure prevent us from doing something that could have a huge impact on our lives. If I had that mindset, @juanbiteatatime wouldn’t be around today. To me, there is no greater win than being able to say that I did something and failed, rather than dwell on the what ifs. At least you know you tried. Once you get into the swing of things, posting consistently, you will more than likely face constant algorithmic/platform changes on apps like Instagram that tend to get frustrating, but just keep going! Most importantly, do it with passion and have fun!
If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
This is a hard question, but I’d probably say pasta. There is something so comforting to me about it and Italian food in general, it just feels like home. Aside from that, there is so much versatility in what you can do to it where it won’t feel like you’re eating the same thing over and over again.
Efrain Bueres photographed with two of his favorite dishes from Makoto, the tuna crispy rice and the brussels sprouts.
Efrain Bueres, @officiallyefrain
Describe your favorite Summer dish from Makoto.
This one is definitely a trick question—it’s impossible for me to pick a favorite dish from Makoto; their food never disappoints. But if you force me… My go-to appetizer is the tuna crispy rice; I can’t go to Makoto without my favorite side–the brussels sprouts and I almost always treat myself to the wagyu beef hot stone for my main.
If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
I would die happy eating sushi every day for the rest of my life.
What do you consider your greatest indulgence?
Hands down: chocolate cake and ice cream (and Makoto has some of the most indulgent chocolate cake and ice cream I’ve had the pleasure of having).
Best hotel room service award goes to…
SLS South Beach Miami really knows how to make their guests feel special. Best spread I’ve had at a hotel so far.
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