By Andrew Rosario
It was the 11th time the Super Bowl was played in Miami. All things considered, there isn’t a better city to host the biggest game of the year. Let’s begin with the time of the year. Late January where the east coast is getting smashed with sub zero temperatures. Recently, the west coast had to deal with wild fires (not their fault) which is not conducive to the game being played there. The Super Bowl in New Jersey was a accident waiting to happen as the weather never got above 20 degrees leading up to the game. Fortunately, the weather gods (including Vince Lombardi from New Jersey) shined on the game as kick-off was close to 60 degrees and sunny. (Personal note: I was in shorts and a thick sweatshirt all day).
Which brings us back to why Miami is the best venue for the NFL’s biggest showcase. Let’s begin with Monday night for media night where more than 4k media members descended upon Marlins Park (home of NY Yankees Hall of Famer Derek Jeter and owner of the Marlins) to get one sound bite for both teams. The public was allowed to attend and take in the festivities. Tuesday night, the NFL rolled out the welcome mat to thank all of the media who traveled across the world to cover the Super Bowl. Food, drink, hand rolled cigars were aplenty. Not to mention a rocking live band and a dj who did her things playing everything from old school to new school.
Perhaps one of the best events of the week took place last Thursday night at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood Florida. The 6th Annual Culinary Kickoff hosted by hosted by ex-NFL greats Charles Woodson and Marshall Faulk. With music blasting (guest DJ Jaime Fox) attendees were treated to some of the best chefs in the country. Chef Jason Atherton and Daniel Berk put together Waygu rump cap, truffle potato and wild mushroom along with Pea; barley, truffle and wild mushrooms. Chef Tito Vargas teased the palate with Pork rillettes. foi gras torchon and mango Mostarda. Not be outdone, Chef’s Michael Mina and Sebastian threw down their Yemenite Beef short ribs with Matbucha. To enhance the tasty dishes, 2 red wines (Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon) and 1 white (Sauvignon Blanc) were served. If you had room for your sweet tooth, you would have been in business (see photo). The event raised big money for CIA helping students who want to enter the world of food, beverage and hospitality.
Other parties that took place included Rob Gronkowski’s beach party as well as parties hosted by Derek Jeter, Ray Lewis and Shaquille O’ Neal.
Next years Super Bowl LV (55) takes place in Tampa. It’s not Miami but expect the same amount of fans and media from everywhere. There will be no lack of parties as well.
Recent Comments