2012 Sony Ericsson Tennis Tournament

If you like tennis, you’ll love the 2012 Sony Ericsson Open in Miami. Every year, the top tennis talent from around the world comes together at the Tennis Center at Crandon Park for a tournament that will leave you craving for a new racket. The Tennis Center at Crandon Park is located in beautiful Key Biscayne, and matches are played throughout the two week tournament at the Main Stadium, the Grandstand, and seven other courts, so watching some of the game’s top seeds up close and personal is almost guaranteed.

In addition to day and evening games, the event is filled with additional entertainment and activities for fans of all ages, including player autograph signings, Zoo Miami animal displays, Bombay Sapphire Lounge mixology demonstration, and meet and greet sessions with the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders. This is definitely one of South Florida’s annual premier events, at a time when the weather is at its best – don’t miss it! 

(for more photos of the 2012 Sony Ericsson Open tournament, click here.)

Happy First Day of Spring

Historic Charm Meets Culinary Delight.

A historic charm meets a culinary delight is the best way I can describe my dining experience this past weekend at Bistro Soleil, at the Olde Marco Inn, in Marco Island, Florida. The Inn is one of Marco Island’s oldest structures, built back in the late 1800’s. Inside, the restaurant is cozy and charming. Beautiful crystal chandeliers light up the interior, including one previously owned by Guy Lombardo himself, a stunning 2000 prism glass chandelier that hangs above one of the larger dining rooms. Directly in front of a modest and cheerful bar, a piano separates a few high-tops from the dance floor, and around the piano, several stools provide sitting comfort for those who enjoy the nightly live music close up and personal.

Qu'est-ce que la recommandation du chef?
Being in a French cuisine restaurant, I felt it appropriate to start with a cup of their classic French onion soup. It was just the right blend of beef broth, caramelized onions and a touch of wine; all cooked to perfection and served piping hot with a light toping of melted Gruyere cheese. For my main dish, I went with one of Chef Denis’ specialties, the Tilapia Denis. A seared fillet, complemented with crab meat, and topped with a lemon caper butter sauce. The mix of flavors was amazing; the tanginess of the lemon and capers, blended perfectly with the crabmeat and tilapia. For desert, I had the Tarte Tatin. A traditional crispy warm apple tart accompanied with vanilla ice cream, topped with richly-flavored syrup of balsamic vinegar reduction. I completed my meal with a Golden Cadillac digestive, and then relocated to the piano bar until the place was ready to close.

I highly recommend this true gem to anyone who enjoys a great meal, a pleasant atmosphere, and good music. Bistro Soleil is located at 100 Palm Street, Marco Island, Florida. The phone number is 239-389-0981.