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Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival -
Feb. 21-23
Join your favorite Food Network hosts including Rachael Ray, Emeril Lagasse, Paula Dean, Giada De Laurentiis, Bobby Flay, Tyler Florence and many more for cooking demos and book signings at the American Express Grand Tasting Tents. Other events include the Moët & Chandon BubbleQ, Wine Spectator Tastngs, annual Tribute Dinner, Paula’s Poker Party & Casino Night and more. Call (877) 762-3933 or visit the web site for a complete listing of events and to purchase tickets.

Listen up

Moonlight and Music Valentine's Day Concert - Feb. 14
This annual Valentine's Day concert takes advantage of Miami's spectacular February weather. Celebrate the day of love at the historic Deering Estate with a romantic outdoor concert under the stars. Musical guests include guitarist Eric Hansen, and the Hansenhaus Sextet, who will delight the audience with the sounds of Flamenco, Jazz & Classical Guitar. Concert-goers are welcome to bring picnic baskets, lawn chairs and blankets to spread on the lawn. The concert begins at 8 p.m.; Gate opens at 7 p.m. Deering Estate at Cutler is located at: 16701 SW 72nd Ave., Cutler Bay; tel: (235) 1668, ext. 233. Tickets are $15. No coolers are permitted.

‘Tis the Season…

Farmers Markets in Miami
This is prime time to enjoy South Florida's locally grown fruits and vegetables. Don't forget to bring along environmentally friendly (i.e. non-plastic) tote bags for all that delicious produce!

Here is a handy list of local farmers’ markets from South Florida Gourmet:

Coral Gables: Saturdays 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Florida grown produce, fresh fish, baked goods and fun for the entire family. Coral Gables City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way. Open January 19 – March 19.
Coconut Grove: Saturdays 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. offers fresh organic produce and foods. 3300 Grand Ave. Open year-round.
Downtown Miami. Bayfront Park: Thursdays 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Starting February 28
Lincoln Road Green Market, Miami Beach: Sundays 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. One of the liveliest street markets with fresh produce local honeys, plants and baked goods. Fun ambiance. Open all year.
Normandy Village, Miami Beach: Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fountain Plaza, 71st St and Vendome. Open all year.
Aventura: Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., Sundays 12 – 8 p.m. Aventura Mall (near Bloomingdale’s). Starting Feb 16 and 17.

Don’t miss…

Little Havana Walking Tour – March 1
Absorb Cuban culture with Dr. Paul George from the Historical Museum of Southern Florida on this classic tour through one of Miami’s most exciting neighborhoods. Explore South Florida bungalow architecture and see the Tower Theater. Marvel at the dexterity of old-fashioned hand rollers at a cigar factory and perhaps make a purchase. Listen to the rhythmic “clack” of dominoes at Domino Park and smell the café con leche wafting through the air. Visit Cuban Memorial Boulevard and observe the monuments that speak to the exile presence in Miami. See the home of Miami’s first mayor. Meet and park on the street at SW 13 Avenue and 8 Street. HMSF members $20, Non-members $25. For information, call (305) 375-1621. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hidden Gem

Captain Jim Hanson's Seafood Market and Restaurant
This is where locals go when they’re craving really fresh fish. This laid-back seafood joint features local catches like grouper, yellowtail snapper, dolphin and stone crab, served simply and lip-smackingly fresh. Capt. Jim’s fleet delivers seafood to some of the best restaurants in South Florida. Regulars rave about the Captain's fish sandwich, and there’s also a market on the premises in case you feel like bringing something home to cook. Captain Jim Hanson's Seafood Market and Restaurant, 12950 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami; tel: (305) 892-281.