Miami Bars Receive Prestigious Global Cocktail Awards Nominations
Bar Kaiju received nominations for Best U.S. Cocktail Bar and World’s Best Cocktail Menu. ViceVersa was named a finalist for Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar. The Champagne Bar at the Four Seasons Surf Club earned a nomination for Best U.S. Hotel Bar. Macchialina was recognized in the Best U.S. Restaurant Bar category.
Roundup of Top Seafood Markets in Miami
Miami has many excellent seafood markets offering fresh, locally-caught seafood. Captain Jim’s in North Miami is an iconic institution serving classic dishes like yellowtail snapper and stone crab claws. FreshCo in Kendall is a popular spot known for conch fritters and snapper wings. Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market is a long-standing favorite overlooking the Miami River. Shore to Door in Coconut Grove transforms into a lively backyard party on weekends with live music and fresh catch dishes.
Supreme Court Suspends Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans, Sparking Fears in Doral
The Supreme Court decided to suspend the temporary protected status of around 350,000 Venezuelans living in the United States. Doral Mayor Christi Fraga described the move as “harsh” but said she understands the heavy-handed approach to immigration. Venezuelans in Doral are afraid to leave their homes, even for work. Republican representatives want a case-by-case review of each individual to determine who legitimately warrants the protections.
NOAA Predicts Above-Normal 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season
NOAA forecasts 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, 3 to 5 major hurricanes for 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. Season expected to be above-normal due to warm ocean temperatures, weak wind shear, active West African monsoon. Forecasters warn Floridians to prepare regardless of outlook. Last year saw record-breaking storm activity, including devastating hurricanes hitting Florida.
Miami Worldcenter, a Luxury Shopping and Residential Complex, Opens After 20 Years of Development
Miami Worldcenter opened after being in development for 20 years. It features luxury shopping and pricey parking. The project has changed Miami’s landscape drastically. It is an example of Miami’s rapid construction and development.
New Seafood Restaurant Fluke Opens in Miami Beach by Macchialina Team
Macchialina team opened new seafood restaurant Fluke inside their original dining space in Miami Beach. Fluke offers fresh seafood like crudo, oysters, fried snacks, and a popular burger. It has a focus on martinis and dry Marsala wines. In Little River, the team also opened Bar Bucce, a bottle shop, pizzeria, and market.
Miami-Dade Elected Officials’ Salaries: A Diverse Range
Elected officials’ salaries across Miami-Dade County’s 34 municipalities range from zero to six-figure amounts. Some mayors and council members earn high salaries comparable to corporate executives, while others receive nominal pay or reimbursements for expenses. Many cities provide allowances for travel, phones, and vehicles for elected officials. Several municipalities contribute to retirement plans like the Florida Retirement System for their elected leaders. Compensation is typically set by city charters or ordinances.
Sibling Pastors Embroiled in Legal Battle Over Property Inheritance Dispute
The family sold their grandmother’s property for $750,000. The pastor brother felt shortchanged, receiving only $5,000 from the sale proceeds. He accused his pastor sister of corruption, alleging she made backroom deals with city officials to cut him out of profits. The sister filed a slander lawsuit, denying any wrongdoing and stating she had no control over disbursement decided by the executor. The brother sent disparaging emails and texts making accusations against the sister and other family members.
Top 10 Most Booked Miami Restaurants for May 2025 Revealed
Bayshore Club is the most booked restaurant in Miami for May 2025 according to OpenTable. Koko by Bakan and Fogo de Chão are the second and third most booked restaurants respectively. All top 10 most booked restaurants are located in Coconut Grove and Coral Gables neighborhoods. Coconut Grove and Coral Gables are the hottest dining destinations in Miami currently.
Greek Frozen Yogurt Chain Go Greek Yogurt Expands to Miami
Go Greek Yogurt, a popular Greek frozen yogurt chain from Beverly Hills, opened its first Florida location in downtown Miami on May 21. It plans to open a second location in Coconut Grove near the Mayfair Hotel & Gardens this summer. The chain is known for its classic and seasonal Greek yogurt flavors and toppings made with fresh ingredients. The news of its arrival in Miami has generated excitement among locals, with many expressing joy over the return of a robust frozen yogurt scene in the city.
Miami Among Top Cities for Basketball Fans, WalletHub Finds
Miami ranks sixth among 297 cities analyzed nationwide as the best city for basketball fans, according to a WalletHub study. The study found Miami excels in NBA fan engagement, team performance, titles won, stadium capacity, and attendance. However, the University of Miami Hurricanes basketball team performed poorly, ranking low in team performance, fan engagement, and season ticket prices. Despite the Heat’s early playoff exit and the Hurricanes’ dismal season, Miami’s basketball fandom remains strong, driven by the Heat’s passionate fanbase.
Pop Mart Opens Vending Machine Selling Labubu Dolls at Miami’s Dolphin Mall
Pop Mart vending machine selling Labubu dolls opened at Dolphin Mall in Miami. Videos show long lines of people waiting to buy randomized dolls from machine. Pop Mart is Chinese retailer known for blind box products and Labubu doll craze. Machine appears to be Pop Mart’s first Florida location.
Miami Residents’ Social Media Posts Expose City’s Contrasting Realities
Miami residents shared photos celebrating living in the city on Reddit. Initially, posts highlighted beaches, nature, and urban amenities. However, the trend quickly shifted to venting frustrations like traffic congestion, scams, and high costs of living. Users sarcastically shared photos of gridlock, drug parcels washing ashore, and low bank balances. The posts revealed the duality of Miami’s enviable attractions and harsh realities.
Spotlight on Iconic Miami Restaurants with Decades of History
94th Aero Squadron Restaurant has offered a unique dining experience since 1977. Arbetter’s Hot Dogs has been a Miami staple for hot dogs since 1959. The Big Cheese has been a beloved Italian-American restaurant since 1984. Caffe Abbracci has been a cornerstone of Coral Gables dining since 1989, known for its Italian cuisine.
Miami Bandshell Hosts 80-Member Samba Percussion Group Performance
Miami-based samba percussion collective Miamibloco will host 80 drummers at Miami Beach Bandshell for their fifth annual event. To accommodate the large group, drummers will perform in the audience pit area rather than onstage. The event will feature Brazilian musicians and Miami artists collaborating with Miamibloco. Gustavo and Guilherme Oliveira from legendary Brazilian group Bateria Furiosa will make their Miami debut performance. Miamibloco aims to integrate samba rhythms with various cultural influences found in Miami.
E11even-Branded Luxury Condos Planned Above Miami Nightclubs
Two E11even-branded 65-story residential towers are coming to downtown Miami’s Park West neighborhood. Residents will live above legendary nightclubs E11even and Club Space. The towers will have 910 luxury residences with access to amenities like a day club, pool, spa, and helipad. Prices start at $1.65 million for a two-bedroom unit.
Skinny Louie Burger Chain Opens New Location in Coral Gables
New burger chain Skinny Louie opened in Wynwood in late 2023. It later expanded to other Miami locations and New York City. Coral Gables location is now opening, marking fourth Miami site. Skinny Louie offers simple menu with smashed patty burgers.
Memorial Day Weekend Marred by Deadly Wrong-Way Crash, Storm Potential, and Extreme Heat in South Florida
A deadly wrong-way crash occurred on the Sawgrass Expressway in Sunrise. A woman driving a Buick sedan southbound in the northbound lanes collided with a truck, resulting in her death. The truck driver suffered minor injuries. Strong storms are expected Friday afternoon with potential for wind, hail, and isolated flooding. Saturday may see scattered storms, while Sunday and Monday should have mostly sunny skies with isolated inland storms. Wednesday is forecasted to be the hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures reaching the low 90s and feels-like conditions in the triple digits.
FIU partners with Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for pediatric healthcare and research
FIU and Nicklaus Children’s Health System formed a partnership. FIU’s medical school will have Nicklaus as its official pediatric teaching hospital. The partnership aims to enhance pediatric healthcare through expanded research, clinical trials, and educational opportunities. It will address the looming shortage of pediatric physicians and retain more doctors locally.
Miami Commission Seat: Dynasties Clash in Heated Special Election
Two political families are battling for power in a special election for a Miami City Commission seat. Jose Regalado, backed by the late commissioner’s family, is running against Ralph Rosado, supported by another commissioner. Regalado comes from a political dynasty, while Rosado portrays himself as an outsider. The election could shift the balance of power on the commission. Accusations of cronyism and ulterior motives have been traded by both sides.
Judge to Rule on Potential Disqualification of Miami Prosecutors in OnlyFans Model Murder Case
Courtney Clenney’s defense team argued for disqualification of the entire Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. The lead prosecutor withdrew after being ruled to face questioning about accessing privileged defense materials. The new prosecutor opposed disqualification, stating no prejudice occurred. The judge has not yet ruled on disqualifying the prosecutors from Clenney’s murder case.
Shooting at Jewish Museum in DC Prompts Increased Security Around Places of Worship in Miami-Dade
Two Israeli embassy staffers were killed in a shooting outside a Jewish museum in Washington D.C. The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, chanted “Free, free Palestine” during the attack. Miami-Dade deputies increased patrols around synagogues, mosques, Jewish schools, and cultural institutions as a precaution. Local Jewish organizations urged the community to remain vigilant but not allow the attack to prevent them from proudly expressing their Jewish identity and support for Israel.
Severe Storms and Heat Wave Threaten Memorial Day Weekend in Miami
Strong storms possible Thursday and Friday in eastern South Florida. Risk of isolated severe winds, hail up to one inch, and tornadoes. Heavy rain may cause flooding. Elevated heat risk with heat index reaching 103-107 degrees Fahrenheit. Memorial Day likely hot with chance of storms in afternoon.
Former Miami Cop Pleads Guilty to COVID Relief Fraud, Faces Lengthy Prison Sentence
Former Miami police officer Tramaine Liptrot pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans by providing false information about his company’s payroll. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison for fleecing over $200,000 from pandemic relief programs.
Airport Parking Advisory Issued for Miami and Fort Lauderdale During Memorial Day Weekend
Parking at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is expected to be in high demand during the Memorial Day weekend. FLL’s garages and valet parking could reach full capacity, while MIA’s remote Economy Park and Ride lot offers discounted parking. Both airports recommend arriving early, using ride-share services, or finding off-site parking options if airport lots are full. Real-time parking information and tools are available on the airports’ websites and apps.
Men Convicted in Celebrity Car Designer Murder-for-Hire, Separate Murder Charges
Three men were convicted in a murder-for-hire trial involving a plot to kill a car designer to celebrities. Rolando “Roly” Ramirez and Rasheed “Free” Ali were found guilty of conspiracy, murder for hire, and other charges related to the 2019 shooting of Alex Vega. Tamrat “Shifta” Mason was convicted of witness tampering. In a separate incident, Deashia Smith and Elton Hightower were charged with second-degree murder in the killing of Rae’quan Smith in Naranja.
Proper Sunscreen Storage and Replacement Guidelines
Sunscreen loses effectiveness when stored in heat or sunlight. It has an expiration date and should be replaced yearly. Chemical sunscreens degrade faster than mineral ones. Do not use expired or improperly stored sunscreen as it provides insufficient protection. Store new sunscreen in a cool, dry place away from light.
Immigration Arrests at Miami Court Spark Due Process Concerns
ICE agents arrested several immigrants outside immigration court in Miami. Agents waited in court hallways and arrested men after dismissing cases. Arrests allowed expedited removals without judges per recent policy changes. Lawyers criticized the tactics as undermining due process and courts.
Trailer fire investigated as arson at Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park amid eviction dispute
A fire broke out Tuesday night at a trailer in Sweetwater’s Li’l Abner Mobile Home Park. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office confirmed it’s being investigated as possible arson. Around 200 residents are fighting eviction from the park. Another fire had occurred at the park in February after residents started leaving.
American Airlines Adds New Miami-Sarasota Flight; Memorial Day Weekend Travel Expected to be Busy
American Airlines will offer a new daily direct flight from Sarasota-Bradenton Airport to Miami International Airport starting November 3. The flight will depart Sarasota at 6:30 a.m. and arrive in Miami at 7:40 a.m., with the return flight leaving Miami at 9:30 p.m. Travel during Memorial Day weekend is expected to bring higher gas prices, crowded roads, and busy airports. Miami International Airport forecasts over 900,000 passengers from May 22 to May 27. South Beach will have parking and traffic restrictions, including a flat $30 parking rate for non-residents. Most businesses will be open on Memorial Day, but government offices, courts, and postal services will be closed.
South Florida woman stabs daughter; teacher arrested for sex with student
A 57-year-old Homestead woman stabbed her daughter multiple times in front of a grandchild during a heated argument. A Hialeah High English teacher was arrested for engaging in a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old student, including sexual activity in classrooms. Students at the school said the teacher was attracted to female students and made inappropriate comments.
Teen sister and accomplice charged in brother’s fatal shooting
Rae’quan Smith, aged 20, was shot dead. His teen sister Deashia Smith, 17, and Elton Hightower, 19, were arrested for the shooting. Hightower faces second-degree murder charges. Deashia Smith possessed a firearm linked to the shooting. A witness saw Deashia Smith and Hightower shoot at Rae’quan Smith before fleeing.
Miami News Roundup: Haitian Flag Day, Rapper Success, Sports Figure Resilience
Haitians in Miami celebrated Flag Day with a subdued mood due to recent events in Haiti. Miami rapper King Tetrus gained national attention after years of struggle. WNBA star Angel Reese faces online abuse but remains resilient. Spike Lee’s new film with Denzel Washington received a six-minute ovation at Cannes.
Miami Beach Unveils Innovative Park with Flood Defenses and Recreational Facilities
Miami Beach opened a 19.4-acre innovative park designed for flood protection and recreation. The park has a one-acre lake that can hold stormwater and reduce flooding. It features tennis courts, playgrounds, and green spaces while enhancing biodiversity and water quality. The park incorporates resilient infrastructure to adapt to climate change impacts like heavy rains and sea level rise.
New Oyster and Crudo Bar “Fluke” Opens in Former Macchialina Space, Miami Beach
A new hot spot called Fluke has opened in the original Macchialina space in Miami Beach. It is an oyster and crudo bar with a cocktail program focused on martinis. The atmosphere is dark and moody with a new black marble bar. The menu features oysters, crudo, fried options, and Macchialina’s Big Macch Burger. It operates on a self-service model where guests mark their choices on paper menus.
Bodycam Footage Shows Officer Shot in 2024 CityPlace Doral Fatal Shooting
A gunman shot indiscriminately at a bar in CityPlace Doral on April 6, 2024, killing a security guard and injuring multiple people. Police officers confronted and exchanged gunfire with the shooter, fatally wounding him. One officer was shot and seriously injured during the encounter. Authorities cleared the officers of wrongdoing, determining their use of force was legally justified to protect themselves and others. The incident prompted lawsuits against the bar and security company for alleged negligence.
Florida Panthers Take 2-0 Series Lead Over Hurricanes in Eastern Conference Final
Florida Panthers won first two games against Carolina Hurricanes in Eastern Conference Final. Panthers scored three goals in first period of Game 2 for 5-0 win. Panthers won Game 1 by 5-2 score. Panthers grabbed 2-0 series lead over Hurricanes.
1975 Cold Case Murder of Two Teens in Broward Solved Through DNA Evidence
Two 14-year-old girls, Barbara Schreiber and Darlene Zetterower, were brutally murdered in 1975 in Broward, Florida. Their bodies were found in the Everglades after being sexually assaulted and shot to death. In 2023, thanks to DNA technology, detectives identified the suspects as Robert Clark Keebler and Lawrence Stein, both with criminal histories involving sexual assaults. Keebler died in 2019 and Stein in 2005, so they cannot be prosecuted, but the case has been solved after nearly 50 years.
Road Rage Incident Leads to Woman’s Arrest for Pulling Knife in Oakland Park
Woman pulled knife during road rage incident. She stopped in front of another driver, escalating situation. Video footage showed she approached other driver first before pulling knife. Woman arrested for aggravated assault with deadly weapon charge.
News Anchor Delivers Morning Broadcast While in Labor
A news anchor in Albany, New York delivered the morning news after her water broke. Olivia Jaquith was anchoring the morning news when her water broke at 4:25 a.m., two days past her due date. She continued anchoring the news for three hours while in early labor. Her co-anchor Julia Dunn was also pregnant and announced the breaking news on air.
Police conduct SWAT operation to serve warrant at Margate home
SWAT operation conducted by Margate Police to serve warrant at home near Vizcaya Circle and Barcelona Terrace. No threat to public reported. Scene active and contained during search.
Miami-based Theft Ring Leader Convicted, Faces Deportation After Stealing $550,000 in Vehicles
Leader named Oscar Gomez Guerra led a Miami theft ring. The ring stole over $550,000 worth of vehicles like RVs and boats. Guerra was convicted and faces deportation after prison sentence. He could get up to 60 years in prison.
AI Company Faces Lawsuit Over Teen’s Suicide, Free Speech Defense Rejected
Judge rejects free speech argument for AI chatbots in lawsuit over teen’s suicide. Mother alleges chatbot had abusive relationship with her son, leading to his death. Judge allows wrongful death lawsuit to proceed, potential test case for AI liability. Order says AI companies must consider risks before launching products.
Florida Governor Signs Law Increasing Penalties for Swatting Pranks
Florida’s governor signed an anti-swatting law with increased penalties. The law enhances charges for false emergency calls leading to injury or death. Repeat offenders face harsher punishments and must pay restitution. Swatting calls endanger public, victims, and law enforcement officers.
Uber Driver Arrested for Pointing Gun at Passengers in Hollywood
Uber driver Jennifer Benitez, 23, was arrested for aggravated assault after pointing gun at passengers in Hollywood. Video showed Benitez demanding passengers exit car while pointing gun. Benitez claimed she felt threatened and contacted police. Court set $7,500 bond, banned from possessing weapons.
Wildfire burns in Southwest Miami-Dade, threatening homes
Wildfire burning in Southwest Miami-Dade. Fire size approximately 4.5 acres, not contained. Location near 13300 block of Southwest 127th Avenue. Updates pending regarding threat to homes.
Apartment Fire Displaces 38 Residents in Lauderdale Lakes
An apartment fire forced 38 people, including children, out of their homes. The fire torched an apartment at Seawind Lakes Apartments. No one was injured, but nine families had to find somewhere else to stay. The Red Cross offered vouchers for hotel stays.
Swatting Incident Prompts Lockdown at Stranahan High School in Fort Lauderdale
Police responded to Stranahan High School after a threat led to a lockdown. Officers searched the school but found no weapons. The scene was cleared and normal operations resumed. Officials said the threat was an apparent swatting incident.
Father Arrested for Allegedly Abusing 2-Year-Old Daughter in Sunny Isles Beach
Man arrested for abusing 2-year-old daughter. Police saw surveillance video of 37-year-old Andrei Sevastianov roughly carrying, choking, slamming head, dropping and kicking his 2-year-old daughter. He faces charges including aggravated child abuse and resisting arrest. Child recovering in hospital.
Fort Lauderdale Police Officer Arrested on Domestic Violence Charges
Fort Lauderdale Police officer Timothy Skaggs was arrested on domestic violence charges. He allegedly attacked his pregnant girlfriend, strangling and hitting her. Skaggs was charged with battery, false imprisonment, robbery and witness tampering. He was placed on administrative leave pending investigation by internal affairs.
Man Arrested After Climbing Down Miami High-Rise Following Alleged Burglary
Man climbed down side of Miami high-rise building. Police with SWAT arrested him after video showed his actions. He faces charges including theft, burglary, and robbery. Incident happened after alleged burglary and assault on April 1st.
Supreme Court Ends Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans, Impacting Businesses
The Supreme Court allowed President Donald Trump to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan immigrants, affecting around 350,000 people. Many business owners in areas with large Venezuelan populations, like Doral, Florida, employ Venezuelan TPS holders and are unsure about their future. TPS allows immigrants to legally live and work in the U.S. when their home countries are deemed unsafe. Ending TPS for Venezuelans could lead to their deportation and impact businesses that employ them.
Man shot after confronting vehicle burglars in Little Havana
Man confronted group breaking into his vehicle. Shots fired, man shot in arm. Man stable condition in hospital. No arrests made.