Step into the rich history and bold flavors of South Florida with this episode of Take a Bite out of South Florida! We’re live from the stunning Penelope restaurant in Mizner Park, Boca Raton, to explore Munyon’s Paw-Paw, a handcrafted aperitif inspired by the legendary Dr. James Munyon. Co-founders Joe Colucci and Paul Massey share their incredible journey of turning a historical cure-all elixir into a modern-day masterpiece, made with 14 all-natural botanicals and a story that’s as vibrant as its taste.

From the roots of Munyon Island to a meticulous crafting process at Big Cypress Distillery in Miami, this episode uncovers how a bit of Florida’s past has been bottled for today’s cocktail lovers. Plus, we’ll get a taste of the gluten-free crab cakes and shrimp and grits from Penelope’s New Orleans-themed menu, as well as a creative twist on a Sidecar featuring none other than Munyon’s Paw Paw, crafted by highly esteemed local mixologist Myles Robinson.

This episode is filled with history, flavor, and fun. Cheers!



Contact Munyon’s Paw Paw:
Website: munyonspawpaw.com
Instagram: munyonspawpaw
Facebook: Dr.JamesMunyon


Contact Penelope:
Website: www.penelopeofboca.com
Instagram: instagram.com/penelopeofboca
Facebook: facebook.com/penelopeofboca

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Ever find yourself caught in the tango of savoring a decadent dessert, slice of pizza, or glass of wine while your health and fitness goals flash a warning in your mind? It’s time to leave your guilt behind and learn about the concept of Food Freedom, a concept that Kristin Avagliano, founder of Create My Weight, lives by. Create My Weight is a health and weight loss program focused on travel-friendly nutrition, fitness for all levels, and one-on-one accountability for busy professionals. Kristin loves helping people improve their relationship with food and fitness, so they are motivated to stay on track with their healthy habits and reach their goals. 

Join us as we peel back the layers of enjoying our favorite food and beverages without tipping the scales on your health. We dive into the heart of what exactly “Food Freedom” is, conquer the beast of emotional eating, and share our journey towards finding that sweet spot where indulgence and wellness coexist harmoniously. You'll hear us burst the bubble of the all-or-nothing mindset and clink glasses to our beloved low-calorie Prosecco that's making waves in our balanced lifestyle celebration.

Prowling the grocery store aisles can feel like a labyrinth of labels and ingredients, but Kristin shares her best tips and tricks to help you emerge victorious. Kristin unravels the confusion around various packaged products, and shares how to make choices that keep inflammation at bay. And for those who love a good social sip, she pours out her knowledge on low-ABV cocktails and mocktails, and how to make mindful choices while dining out. You’ll love Kristin’s solution to battling food waste, one dressing-drenched salad at a time!

We wrap up by sharing exciting details about an upcoming Healthy Happy Hour event that I am co-hosting with Kristin on May 31st at Pixel Worx, a co working space for creatives located in Delray Beach. The event is open to the community, so if you are local, we hope you will join us.  

This episode is truly a fully stocked buffet of practical advice, laughter, and the shared love for a life well-fed and well-lived. So grab your favorite healthy snack, pour a low-ABV cocktail or glass of low-sugar Prosecco and tune in; your journey to a balanced, healthful and happy existence awaits!

RSVP for our Healthy Happy Hour event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healthy-happy-hour-summer-kickoff-party-tickets-901899554847?

Contact Kristin Avagliano:
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://createmyweight.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createmyweight/

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Travel with me down to the beautiful Amara at Paraiso to chat with James Beard award-winning Chef Michael Schwartz about his iconic Miami restaurants (Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, Amara, and Harry’s Pizzeria) and involvement as one of the featured chefs at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, happening May 3rd-5th at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

The location for this episode couldn’t be more perfect: inside Amara’s event space with stunning views of the Biscayne Bay. Chef Schwartz talks about the early days of his career in Miami, the inspiration behind the menu at Amara at Paraiso, and celebrating the 17-year anniversary of Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, which has been recognized with the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand Award.

Chef Schwartz shares insights into creating dishes with varying temperatures, sourcing sustainable local seafood, and being at the helm of the farm-to-table movement. He tells me about Amara’s new executive chef, Ivan Barros, and the exciting talent he’s brought to the restaurant and its new menu.

We also discuss the thrill of cooking for the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, plus he shares his top tips for maximizing your Grand Prix experience. There are over 65 restaurants that will be on site for this huge weekend-long event, one of them being Harry’s Pizzeria, which has locations in Miami Beach and Coconut Grove. Event-goers can grab slices from Harry’s, and those with access to certain VIP areas will be treated to extra special delights from Chef Schwartz and his team.

This episode is bound leave you hungry, so get ready to make your reservations for Amara, Michael’s Genuine, and Harry’s — and purchase tickets for Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix! Even if you’re not a racing fan, you will still enjoy all of the enticing food selections and entertaining activations throughout the weekend.


Contact Chef Michael Schwartz:
Website: https://chefmichaelschwartz.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefmschwartz/

Contact Amara At Paraiso:
Website: https://amaraatparaiso.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amaraatparaiso/

Contact Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink:
Website: https://michaelsgenuine.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelsgenuine/

Contact Harry's Pizzeria:
Website: https://harryspizzeria.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harryspizzeria/

Contact Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix:
Website: https://f1miamigp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/f1mia/

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

I couldn’t be more excited to sit down with Nicolas Kurban, owner of Amar Mediterranean Bistro (a personal favorite of mine), as we approach the restaurant's third anniversary in bustling Downtown Delray. It’s a heartwarming tale of culinary legacy, peppered with Nicolas's experiences — from growing up in a restaurant family in Lebanon to traveling around the world and working with some of hospitality's most recognized names to his brave launch of a Lebanese haven amid the global pandemic. 

Our conversation unwraps the rich tapestry of his family's Lebanese roots, his ascension within the industry, and the sheer grit it took to bring Amar to life - a testament to the power of heritage and determination.

Imagine walking into a place that feels like home, where the flavors are as genuine as the welcome you receive. That's the essence of Amar, a name chosen for its universal allure and the promise of a warm, modern space that transcends cultural boundaries. We talk about the importance of family recipes, the art of creating a menu that respects tradition while courting local tastes, and the shared dream of growing a business that never loses its soul. We also get a glimpse into the story behind the now-closed Amar Bakery & Market. It's a journey that resonates with anyone who's ever cherished the simple joy of a meal that speaks of home.

As we savored the standout dishes from Amar's menu, I’ll bet you won’t be able to keep your mouth from watering. Nicolas shares what makes his Lebanese menu stand out from other Mediterranean restaurants — think creamier hummus and specially seasoned fries with the most delicious garlic toum for dipping — and how the pairing of Lebanese wines with this tradition-rich cuisine can completely elevate the experience. Everything at Amar is made from scratch, and made with love.

There is an exciting road ahead for Nicolas and the Amar brand, with hopeful potential for the restaurant to bloom in new neighborhoods and expand upon its success with the addition of a full bar and liquor license, happy hour, brunches… It’s all up in the air, but just talking about the idea was exciting! Join us in this celebration of flavor, family, and the future of a culinary gem that's fast becoming a cornerstone of the Delray community. 

Contact Amar Mediterranean Bistro
Website: amardelray.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amardelray/ 

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Meet Ali Kaufman and Chef Blake Malatesta, the creative minds behind the Community Classroom Project, a 501c3 non-profit initiative started by Space of Mind, and its Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) initiative. Join us on a journey as they gear up to unveil the CCK commercial teaching kitchen at The Hub at Space of Mind in Downtown Delray Beach. From chef-curated meal boxes to cooking classes, pop-up dinners, and exclusive events, this isn't your run-of-the-mill commercial kitchen! It's a thriving community space where you can learn, create, and step out of your comfort zones, all while indulging in delightful culinary experiences.

As Founding Chef of the Community Classroom Kitchen and a board member for the Community Classroom Project, Chef Blake is all set to inspire the next generation of chefs. He also takes us through his diverse culinary journey and talks about his current stint at The Wine Room Kitchen and Bar in Downtown Delray. 

We chat about the unique and non-traditional educational services provided by Space of Mind from its Founder and CEO, Ali. She talks about its schoolhouse and gap year program, as well as the anticipation surrounding their upcoming family retreats. We also revisit the recent Chefs Collective event, a wonderful display of culinary camaraderie and creativity. 

A big topic of discussion is the upcoming Pub at the Hub, an annual fundraising event for the Community Classroom Project. This year's “Party Gras” themed event will feature top local chefs and New Orleans-inspired cuisine, artists, and musicians from across the region. Expect interactive entertainment, great raffle prizes and a chance to support the Community Classroom Kitchen programming.  The event takes place on January 20th from 7-11pm at The Hub at Space of Mind. For tickets and more information, visit yourccp.org. 

CCK’s mission is to "bring life skills into the kitchen and kitchen skills into life,” making a huge impact on mental health and well-being for people of all ages. Join in supporting the mission. We hope to see you at Pub at the Hub on January 20th!

Contact Space of Mind:
Website: yourccp.org
Instagram: @findspaceofmind

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Imagine a night out dining under the stars complete with an all-white ensemble, gourmet picnic, and the thrill of an exclusive invite-only event with a secret location revealed at the eleventh hour..

My guests, Tashia and Rene from Modernique & Co Project Management Firm, are explaining the ins and outs of this one-of-a-kind dining event that started in Paris in 1988. Modernique & Co is the host of Le Dîner en Blanc - West Palm Beach, which is happening soon on December 16th, 2023. Tune in as we unpack the fascinating origins of this Parisian-born event that has since cast its magical spell on countless cities worldwide.

We’re chatting about the behind-the-scenes planning, the striking all-white dress code, the unique and dazzling table decor, and all the entertainment that guests experience during the fabulous night out. Learn more about the local food options, the immersive communal dining experience, and exactly what you need to bring with you as a Le Dîner en Blanc guest.

We’ll take you through the captivating traditions, from the napkin wave to the sparkler event that lights up the night sky. Tashia and Rene share their personal experiences and tips that will have you itching to grace one of these parties with your presence.

If Le Dîner en Blanc event has piqued your interest, then you'll want to know all about the registration process and how to make the most of your experience. With a nod to the dedicated volunteers and guests who come year after year, we'll wrap up our discussion by highlighting the myriad of details that make Le Dîner en Blanc a truly unforgettable event. So, don your crisp white attire, and join in the anticipation as we countdown to the grand reveal of this epic event.

If this episode has influenced you to register for the event, make sure to select me as your Table Leader, so we can share in this unique experience together!

Instagram: @dinerenblancwestpalmbeach
Website: https://westpalmbeach.dinerenblanc.com/


Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Get ready to embark on a tantalizing culinary journey as we venture into the diverse food landscape of Miami with our special guest, Elizabeth Jaime. She is a born and bred Miami native, and a former Bon Appetit editor turned passionate florist, Elizabeth shares her transition from New York back to Miami and the birth of her floral company, Calma. With her keen eye for aesthetics and love for cuisine, she has partnered with Apple Maps to create the definitive guide to Miami restaurants, aptly named "Let's Eat".

Discover Miami's food scene through Elizabeth's curated list of 15 must-visit restaurants, which she updates regularly so there is always something new to check out. Your taste buds will be taken on a tour of the world, highlighting restaurants with Vietnamese, German, Middle Eastern, Italian and South American flavors, and exploring some of Miami's favorite spots for pizza and baked goods. 

But it’s not all about the food. We need something to wash it all down with! Elizabeth shares her recommendations for restaurants that not only have great menus, but offer an impressive cocktail program too. To top it all off, Elizabeth walks us through how to easily access her Miami restaurant guide on Apple Maps. Whether you're a food enthusiast residing in Miami or planning a visit, this episode is your passport to the city's rich food culture.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elle_jaime/
Website: https://guides.apple.com/?pg=12129302320701350626&lsp=9902&name=where-elizabeth-jaime-eats-in-miami

Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Join us on a delicious journey to the heart of Deerfield Beach, as we celebrate two decades of exceptional dining at Oceans 234, the stunning oceanfront restaurant located just footsteps from the sand.

Oceans 234 owner Danielle Rosse and Executive Chef Nicole Fey have joined us to share the tale of transformation from a humble diner next to a gas station to a remarkable fine-dining destination, all thanks to a community of support and almost 2 million-dollar renovation. This dynamic duo gives us a closer look at the culinary highlights on the menu and the unique vacation-like dining experience they provide for every guest.

This episode is not only a food lover's paradise, but also an inspiration for those who believe in giving back to the community. Danielle shares about her record-breaking fundraising efforts during the recent Boca Ballroom Battle for the George Snow Scholarship, and  Nicole dishes on collaborations with fellow local chefs. From salsa nights to food and wine festivals, discover the initiatives that put Oceans 234 on the map and the immense impact they've had on their community. 

Learn about Nicole's journey, from her roots here in Florida to travels across the country and even to South Korea, and how these experiences have influenced her both in and out of the kitchen, especially when creating the dishes for Oceans 234's tantalizing menu — a menu that features a wide variety of flavors inspired by the diverse cultures that make up South Florida. 

A treat for food lovers, a source of inspiration for community enthusiasts, and an engaging story of transformation and impact, Danielle Rosse and Nicole Fey will keep you hooked till the very end. Cheers to 20 years at Oceans 234!

 Contact Shaina Wizov:
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeabiteoutofboca/
Website: https://takeabiteoutofboca.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swizov/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/swizov

Danielle Rosse, Oceans 234 Owner:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/danielle_rosse1/

Nicole Fey, Oceans 234 Executive Chef:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/feyness/

Oceans 234:
Website: https://www.oceans234.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oceans_234/

Prepare to be whisked away on a culinary adventure with the talented and charismatic Chef Adrienne Grenier. From the heat of prestigious kitchens to the tranquility of her Pompano Beach balcony garden, Adrienne's journey is both inspiring and insightful. We explore her beginnings at 3030 Ocean at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort to her current stint at the beachfront Ritz-Carlton in Fort Lauderdale where she reigns as Chef de Cuisine, working alongside her longtime colleague and friend, and celebrated chef, Paula DaSilva, the resort’s Director of Culinary and Beverage.

If your palate has been craving a taste of South Florida, you're in for a treat. We join Adrienne as she shares some of her favorite local dining spots, relives memorable culinary experiences, and of course, we couldn't overlook her passion for backyard gardening, and how it has inspired one of her favorite items on Burlock Coast’s current menu — we’ll get a taste of it too!

Through her eyes, we get a refreshing perspective on the importance of impeccable service in the dining industry and a light-hearted peek at her restaurant pet peeves. We talk about the exciting private dining option available at Burlock Coast that provide guests with an intimate experience and a chef’s choice seafood tasting menu.

From Florida's tomato season to the intricacies of a perfect dining experience, this episode is a gourmet blend of vibrant colors and tastes you won’t want to miss out on.

Shaina Wizov | Food/Lifestyle Blogger, Social Media Influencer and Freelance Writer
Website: www.takeabiteoutofboca.com
Instagram: @takeabiteoutofboca
Listen to the Take A Bite Out of South Florida Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more!
YouTube: Take A Bite Out of South Florida

Contact Chef Adrienne Grenier:
@burlockcoast
@adriennegrenier
@theritzcarltonfortlauderdaldale

Get ready, foodies! The original and oldest established Palm Beach restaurant month, Flavor Palm Beach, is right around the corner. It started in 2007 with only 10 restaurants and has grown to an epic showcase of more than 50 diverse establishments from Boca Raton to Tequesta, serving up mouthwatering three to five-course meals. Listen in as we get the inside scoop from Flavor Palm Beach owner, Kerri Paizzi, about this community event that not only offers a spectacular dining experience but also boosts local businesses during the slow-paced month of September.

Our culinary exploration doesn't stop there! This episode was filmed at one of Flavor Palm Beach's participating restaurants, La Masseria. Join us as we dive into the tale of Peppe Iuele, one of the owners, and his inspiring journey from Capri, Italy to New York, and now here in Palm Beach Gardens. Peppe brings authentic, traditional Italian flavor and hospitality to South Florida, and we're lucky enough to get a taste. From discussing the unique dishes and decor, including the massive wine wall that tells a unique story, it's a delicious journey you don't want to miss.

Peppe tells us about some of La Masseria’s most popular dishes like the homemade stuffed mozzarella prepared fresh every day, and the show-stopping Sgroppino, an Italian cocktail with vodka, lemon sorbet, Prosecco and fresh mint. You'll also get insight into their unique wine selection, featuring a large variety of wines, and we even had a taste of an Arneis from Piedmont, Peppe’s favorite region in Italy.

You’ll also learn what the Flavor Palm Beach menu will be at La Masseria: a 3-course dinner, featuring a choice of appetizer, main dish, and dessert, for an incredible deal of just $45! With selections such as fried zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta, and smoked mozzarella, homemade ossobuco ravioli with mushrooms and dry marsala, and homemade tiramisu, it’s bound to be one meal you will never forget.

Flavor Palm Beach starts on September 1st — make sure this is on your calendar! Year after year, it just keeps getting better. All of the participating restaurants and menus can be found online at flavorpb.com. Let's embark on this flavor-packed journey through Palm Beach County's finest restaurants together.

Flavor Palm Beach:
Website: https://www.flavorpb.com/
Instagram: @flavorpalmbeach

La Masseria:
Website: https://lamasseriapbg.com/
Instagram: @lamasseriapb

Shaina Wizov | Food/Lifestyle Blogger, Social Media Influencer and Freelance Writer
Website: www.takeabiteoutofboca.com
Instagram: @takeabiteoutofboca
Listen to the Take A Bite Out of South Florida Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and more!
YouTube: Take A Bite Out of South Florida