Author

Aron Galinovsky

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Italian

The Green Point Restaurant in Aventura Florida

The Green Pointe is a contemporary Italian restaurant located at 3585 Mystic Pointe Drive in Aventura, Florida. Overlooking a marina, it offers a chic and stylish ambiance, making it an ideal setting for romantic dates, family gatherings, and private events.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a menu that blends traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary innovation. Popular dishes include salmon and beef carpaccio, fresh salads, exquisite pastas, and Napoli-style pizzas. The generous portions, fresh ingredients, and friendly service, creates a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

I ate at this restaurant with three other people. We ordered appetizers, soups, and a main meals.  Each of the appetizers brought a unique flavor profile; The Margherita Pizza – A balance of simplicity and freshness, with a slightly sweet and tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil on a thin, crisp yet chewy crust. The slight charring from the oven added a touch of smokiness.

The Shishito Peppers with Sweet Aioli – Mild and slightly smoky with the occasional spicy bite, the shishito peppers were blistered for a deep, roasted flavor. The sweet aioli added a creamy, slightly tangy contrast, complementing the peppers’ earthiness.

The Shrimp Skewers with Sweet Chili Sauce – Juicy, tender shrimp with a subtle briny sweetness, grilled to develop a light smokiness. The sweet chili sauce provided a balance of sweetness and gentle heat, added a slight sticky glaze that enhanced the shrimp’s natural flavor.

Overall, the appetizers had a mix of fresh, smoky, and sweet flavors with a variety of textures.

Each soup that we ordered had a rich and indulgent flavor: The Lobster Bisque – Velvety and deeply savory, with the natural sweetness of lobster infused into a creamy, buttery broth. Hints of sherry brandy added warmth and depth, while a touch of herbs enhanced the overall richness. The finish was smooth, slightly briny, and luxuriously comforting.

The Truffle Mushroom Cream Soup – Earthy and aromatic, with deep flavors of mushrooms intensified by the luxurious essence of truffle. The creamy texture enhanced the richness, while subtle garlic and herbs provided complexity. A hint of nuttiness and a slightly woodsy aroma made each spoonful indulgent and satisfying.

Both soups offered a warm, silky, and deeply flavorful experience, perfect for savoring.

The entrees ordered were  Seafood Risotto – Rich and creamy with a deep flavor from the seafood broth. The rice absorbed the briny sweetness of shrimp, scallops, and salmon, while butter and Parmesan added a luxurious texture. Fresh herbs and a touch of lemon brought brightness, balancing the richness.

Spaghetti with Octopus – A unique combination of tender, slow-cooked octopus with al dente pasta, in a tomato-based sauce. The octopus imparted a mild, slightly sweet oceanic flavor, while garlic, chili, and fresh herbs added depth and a subtle heat.

Spaghetti with Meatball – A comforting classic with juicy, well-seasoned meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. The sauce is slightly tangy and sweet, with garlic, basil, and oregano enhanced its depth. The pasta soaked up the flavors, creating a satisfying, hearty bite.

Spaghetti Carbonara – Indulgently creamy without the use of cream, featuring a silky sauce made from eggs, Pecorino Romano, and rendered bacon. The bacon a smoky, salty contrast, while freshly cracked black pepper enhanced the dish with a subtle spiciness. The result is a perfectly balanced mix of richness and saltiness.

Each entre dish offered a different take on classic Italian flavors, from seafood elegance to hearty, comforting pasta.

The service at the restaurant was excellent and highly attentive, creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. From the moment we arrived, the staff was warm, professional, and genuinely engaged, ensuring each one of us felt well cared for. The waitress was knowledgeable about the menu, offering thoughtful recommendations and accommodating special requests with ease. She checked in at just the right moments—refilling drinks promptly, adjusting service pace based on our needs, and ensuring every dish arrived at the perfect temperature. The attention to detail was evident, whether it’s remembering a request, swiftly clearing plates between courses, or offering a personalized touch, like a warm farewell. The team’s efficiency and friendliness created a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, making us feel valued and enhanced the overall dining experience. All of us would definitely comeback to this restaurant again.

Rating 8/10

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Recipes

Hot and Sour Soup

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 8 cups of hot water
  • 2 tsp Knorr chicken bouillon
  • 1 package sliced  tofu
  • 1 package sliced mushrooms (dried shitake mushrooms)
  • 1 cup canned bamboo shoots
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tbsp chili flakes
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tsp dark soy sauce
  • 2 tsp lite soy sauce
  • ½ cup vinegar
  • cornstarch slurry (3 tsp cornstarch mix with 6 tsp of water)
  • 3 beaten eggs
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions

DIRECTIONS

  • Combine hot water, bouillon, tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, salt, pepper, chili flakes in a pot.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
  • Stir in sesame oil, dark soy sauce, lite soy sauce, and vinegar.
  • Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
  • Crack in beaten eggs and stir gently.
  • Garnish with green onions.
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Middle Eastern

Avra Miami

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avra Miami, located at 17945 Collins Ave in Sunny Isles Beach is a Greek restaurant. This establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating up to 350 guests. The design features floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, and lush greenery, creating an ambiance reminiscent of the Greek islands.

The menu emphasizes fresh seafood, with a notable ice display showcasing a variety of catches, allowing guests to select their preferred fish, which is then prepared to their liking. Signature dishes include Avra Chips, crispy zucchini and eggplant slices served with tzatziki and Chilean Seabass Souvlaki. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list from around the world, with a strong emphasis on Greek wines.

For those seeking a refined dining experience that captures the spirit of the Greek seaside, Avra Miami stands out as a premier destination in the area.

For our dinner we ordered the East Coast oysters which were very good as they showcased their freshness and briny flavor. The tuna sashimi and the salmon sashimi. Both dishes had a rather fishy taste, which may indicate less-than-ideal freshness. Three spreads served with pita bread; guava, tatami, and melintzanosalata all solid choices. Our main entrée was a 3.5 pound turbot fish, grilled with extra virgin olive oil, capers, and lemon, and a King Tiger Prawn. Both tasted great and were well-prepared and flavorful. The roasted potatoes with EVOO and lemon, along with the asparagus, were decent side dishes but not particularly standout. Our desert comprised of Baklava and pistachio ice cream was terrific. Overall, a solid dining experience with some hits and misses.

The service at Avra Miami is a mixed bag. While some aspects were attentive and efficient, there were inconsistencies that affected the overall experience. A mistake was made on the bill, which was very frustrating. Some servers may be knowledgeable and accommodating, while others might lack attentiveness. Overall, service quality can vary, so it’s best to double-check the bill before settling up.

We would return to this restaurant for another meal but not on a regular basis.

Score: 6.5/10

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Asian

Novikov Miami

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Novikov Miami offers a high-end dining experience with a luxurious atmosphere, a stylish bar, and high-quality food.  The restaurant has a modern and upscale ambiance with a mix of Asian-inspired decor and sleek, contemporary design. The dining area features bold colors, dim lighting, and an energetic vibe, making it a great spot for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Outdoor seating is available with views of Biscayne Bay, adding a scenic touch to the experience. The music and crowd lean towards a trendy and fashionable clientele, making it a go-to for influencers and business professionals.

The bar at Novikov Miami has an extensive cocktail menu, featuring creative drinks with Asian influences. The bar also offers a wide selection of premium sake, Japanese whiskies, and fine wines.

In general, Novikov is a Chinese-Japanese fusion restaurant, offering high-quality ingredients and an emphasis on fresh seafood. The sushi and sashimi are top-tier. The Peking duck, wagyu beef, and black cod are among the standout dishes. They have a raw bar and a robata grill, ensuring a mix of bold flavors and high-end ingredients.

I visited Novikov with 3 other people. We had a terrific meal. We started by ordering Tuna Jalapeno Sashimi, Spicy Salmon maki roll, Salmon Miso Truffle, and the Ultimate Spicy Tuna Roll. The tuna was buttery, slightly sweet, and rich melting in your mouth. The salmon roll was velvety, slightly fatty, giving it a smooth texture.

Our next order was Spicy Prawn Money Bags. These golden parcels deliver a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The prawns inside are sweet, succulent and slightly briny, complimented by garlic, ginger, and a kick of chili for heat.  Peking Duck Foie Gras. This dish combines the rich, buttery decadence of foie gras with deep, umami packed flavors of Peking duck. The foie gras melts in your mouth, offering a creamy texture and intense savory flavor. Peking Duck Bao Buns. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with tender, crispy skinned Peking duck, offering a combination of sweet, savory and slightly smoky flavors.

Finally, we ordered the Szechuan pepper beef. This dish is bold and electrifying, featuring the signature numbing heat of Szechuan peppercorns combined with deep umami flavors. The beef was tender and coated in rich savory sauce with soy, garlic and ginger and dried chilies.  Sweet and Sour Mango chicken. A vibrant mix of fruity sweetness and tangy sharpness. Singapore Noodles. Fragrant and lightly spiced, Singapore noodles featured thin rice vermicelli stir-fried with curry powder, chicken, egg and a mix of crisp vegetables; simply delicious.

To cap off the night we shared a silk road. It is a pistachio Cremieux and a five spice ice cream. This desert has a rich, velvety texture with an intense pistachio flavor that’s nutty, slightly sweet and deeply aromatic.

While the food was excellent, it comes with a premium price tag, so expect fine-dining pricing. Overall, Novikov Miami is a trendy, upscale dining spot with a vibrant atmosphere, a stylish bar, and exceptional food quality. It’s ideal for special occasions, date nights, or anyone looking for a high-end culinary experience.

Rating 8.5/10

 

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American

Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab (Miami)

Truluck Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab is an upscale seafood restaurant renowned for its commitment to sustainability and exceptional dining experiences. Truluck’s offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood and prime steaks, with a particular emphasis on Florida Stone Crab.

The restaurant’s ambiance is designed to provide a captivating and memorable experience, complemented by remarkable cocktails and an extensive wine selection.

Truluck’s is located at 777 Brickell Avenue, Suite 100, offering lunch and dinner services with live piano music in the Lounge from Wednesday through Sunday

I brought a party of 3 people to Truluck’s, and we had an incredible meal!

Our dinner included the following.

For appetizers we had the Blue Point Oysters with horseradish, cocktail sauce, and champagne mignonette. The Ahi Tuna Tartare with avocado, jalapeno, mango, ponzu, sesame oil, and crispy wonton chips. The dish had a great balance of freshness, spice, and crunch. Prime King Crab simply a luxurious treat. The meat was sweet and melted in your mouth

For the main entrees we had The Sweet & Spicy Grouper with warm quinoa, jalapeno, tomato, and sweet chili sauce. It was a flavorful mix of heat and sweetness. The other entrée was Blue Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails with parmesan mashed potatoes, asparagus, and lobster-sherry sauce. This was definitely a rich and decadent dish.

For desert we had the World-Class Carrot Cake with homemade cream cheese icing, spicy pecans, and warm butterscotch. It was the perfect way to end an elegant seafood feast.

Lastly, our waitress Paola Valderrama really made our dining experience special. She was a great waitress that elevated our meal with attentiveness, knowledge and warm hospitality. She had great recommendation for all 3 of the courses we had. Simply outstanding lady that provided great service.

Overall, we had a top-tier dining experience!  We highly recommend this restaurant, and we would definitely return.

Rating 9.5/10

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American

Rose Cafe in Sunny Isles Beach

Rose Cafe, located at 16690 Collins Avenue, in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, offers a charming and elegant dining experience. The cafe is renowned for its rose-themed decor, creating a picturesque setting.

The interior of Rose Cafe is adorned with floral accents and a pink color palette, providing a delightful backdrop for breakfast and lunch social gatherings. The atmosphere is charming and elegant, making it a popular spot for those seeking a visually appealing dining environment.

Rose Cafe specializes in a modern American menu that includes salads, wraps, sandwiches, a variety of coffee options, healthy juices, and superfood products. The cafe emphasizes organic and healthy offerings, catering to those seeking nutritious and flavorful meals.

We went to Rose café for lunch and had a very good experience. Our order consisted of  Burrata and Fig salad which had arugula, burrata, balsamic, cherry tomatoes, watermelon radish, figs, sliced almonds, sprouts and berries dressing. Mediterranean oven baked salmon which included beet hummus, arugula, watermelon radish, sprouts, cherry tomatoes, carrot, cucumber and lime. Summer chicken wrap with jasmine rice, mash avocado, chicken breast and red pepper. Pumpkin onion soup which was comprised of broiled parmesan, mozzarella pearls, pumpkin seeds and micro cilantro. Everyone in the group enjoyed the food. All of the food was prepared extremely well. All of the dishes were bursting with flavor.  The coffee and the fresh orange juice at the café were also very good. The service was excellent as well.

All in all, Rose Cafe provides a floral oasis where beauty and savory flavors intertwine, delivering a delectable curated breakfast or lunch experience in the heart of Sunny Isles Beach.

Rating 8.5/10

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Asian

Hutong Miami

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hutong Miami, located at 600 Brickell Avenue, offers a vibrant Chinese dining experience. The restaurant interior is a blend of traditional Chinese elements and modern design, featuring antique bricks from a 1930s Chinese building and hand-carved wooden lattice screens. These authentic touches are complemented by vivid pop-art colors, creating a chic and sophisticated atmosphere.

The menu showcases a fusion of contemporary Chinese cuisine, with dishes ranging from dim sum to signature offerings like the Flaming Peking Duck. We started with the traditional salad. We then ordered the Dim Sum Dumplings Platter which consisted of  2 pieces of prawn and black truffle, 2 pieces of wild mushroom & spinach, 2 pieces of mahi mahi and 2 pieces of Sichuan peppercorn prawns. All four of the dumplings were very flavorful, however we all agreed that the prawn and black truffle was the best one. We then had the yu xiang crispy pork dumplings, we all enjoyed them and thought they were full of flavor. We followed that up with prawn & scallop wontons, which were served in a mouth watering sauce. We very much enjoyed them. For the main entrée we had  half of the Peking duck with pancakes which is served in two stages. The first stage is the traditional serving of the Peking duck with the pancakes and the second serving is chopped up meat meat with lettuce leaf cups. The meat was extremely tender and  seasoned very well. Complimenting the duck we ordered the rice vermicelli which is thin pasta wok tossed with seasonal vegetables. One can order them spicy or regular. We elected to try the spicy noodles and very much enjoyed them. The service throughout the night was superb!

In addition to its culinary offerings, Hutong Miami features a bar and terrace where patrons can enjoy cocktails. The ambiance is further enhanced by a captivating light show on a 3D art installation, adding to the overall dining experience.

Overall, Hutong Miami provides a unique blend of authentic Northern Chinese flavors within a contemporary and stylish setting, making it a notable dining destination in the Brickell area.

Rating: 8.5/10

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