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Shoppers in Miami with Amazon Prime accounts can now get Whole Foods groceries delivered straight to their door.Prime Now, Amazon’s same-day delivery service, now includes delivery from Whole Foods Market locations across South Florida, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach.Using the Prime Now website or app, customers can peruse thousands of Whole Foods Market items — including produce, meat and seafood, everyday staples, and other locally sourced goods — place orders, and track delivery. One- and two-hour delivery windows are available upon checkout. Service is available daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.In addition to being able to order fresh and organic produce and meats, Prime members can purchase bakery goods, dairy items, flowers, and select alcohols.Amazon Prime is the e-commerce company's premium subscription service that, for $119 a year, gives members access to free two-day shipping on most items, streaming video and music, and other perks such as Prime Now, which delivers a host of items in less than two hours.Prime Now's Whole Foods delivery launch comes two months after the Seattle-based company announced 10 percent off for Prime members on hundreds of sale items when using the Whole Foods Market app. In addition, Prime Now also delivers meals from popular local restaurants such as Harry's Pizzeria and Cypress Tavern, as well as wine and craft beer from local breweries.In Miami, some of the most popular items ordered through the service are pantry staples, fruit, and Amazon Fire TV sticks.*This article was originally published on the Miami New Times by Clarissa Buch and can be found here.

At STAY FIT 305, it’s no secret we love getting our sweat on, but let’s be real - we sweat so we can eat. In Miami, we’re blessed with an array of mouth watering options, from croquetas at Sergios to fried chicken at Yard Bird, it’s easy to indulge for cheat meals on the weekends, but when it come to grabbing a quick, healthy lunch, you should always have a solid list of go-tos around town to keep your body feeling and looking good all summer long.We created this list of healthy eats that have multiple locations so you truly have no excuses. Here are our recommendations:

1. DIRT - with the tagline “Eat Clean” and a couple locations throughout Miami, DIRT rises to the top of our go-tos. From protein and veggie packed salads and bowls to deliciously topped toasts and flavorful wraps, their menu is diverse and unique. What’s more? They have a menu key that designates which options are vegan, paleo, gluten free, seasonal and spicy, so truly, if you can’t find something here, you’re just too picky of an eater to be going out anyway. DIRT changes their menu seasonally, but my go to is the steak bowl when I have a hankering for a cheesesteak.
2. Jimmy’z Kitchen - Salads have a bad rap - let’s just admit it. But once you find a really good salad, you can’t help but go back again and again and talk about it like it’s a crush, because not only does it taste good, but you feel good after you eat it. How’s that for hype!? Jimmy’z Kitchen is a solid salad spot! They are sure to impress with their diverse flavor portfolios, with ample amounts of freshly grilled protein on top. My go to is the Jamaican Jerked Salad for when I want a filling salad with a kick. Jimmy’z Kitchen has three locations in Brickell, Wynwood, South Beach.
3. GreenLife Organic Bistro - The name alone says it all! GreenLife built its menu by using ingredients free of genetically modified organisms, pesticides, hormones, and anything that doesn’t belong in our food much less in our bodies. 90% of GreenLife’s ingredients are organic, seasonal or locally sourced. Proteins are all natural, antibiotic free, hormone free. From acai and pitaya bowls to vegan soups and protein bowls, GreenLife has an expansive menu that’ll speak healthy to you. They have locations in Brickell, South Beach and Coral Gables.
4. Raw Juce - Sometimes we’re on the go and just need to grab something we know will fill us up without sacrificing nutritional value. This is where the juicing trend comes in handy. Not only does juicing have health benefits like bone health and immune support, but it’s an easy way to pack in nutrients in a quick, drinkable form. Raw Juce offers fresh, diverse, organic, cold-pressed juices, both pre-packaged and made to order in stores. They have locations in Brickell, Coral Gables, Boca Raton, South Beach, Weston, Palm Beach and Miami.
5. Dr. Smood - “Smart Food for a Good Mood.” What else need we say? Dr. Smood will get you filled up on coffee, juice and nutritious lunch options. Pop by and grab something pre-made out of the fridge or get a table and something made to order. You choose your juice or meal based on your mood - power, beauty, immunity, detox, energy and health. Options include eggplant jerky, wild caught salmon panini, espresso brownie bites and more. They have locations in Brickell, South Miami, Sunset Harbour, Aventura and Wynwood.

About a year after the real-estate company Terranova announced plans to open a food hall off Lincoln Road, concrete details about the project have finally emerged. The Lincoln Eatery, a 9,600-square-foot food hall on the corner of Lincoln Lane and Meridian Avenue in South Beach, is schedule to open this fall.Terranova founder and chairman Stephen Bittel says his company intends to extend Lincoln Road's footprint north, with the Lincoln Eatery as the focal point. That block already holds a Marshall's and Macy's and, in the past, has been home to several restaurants, a combination bar/laundry, and a tanning salon. In 2019, the real-estate company will open a rooftop terrace at the Lincoln Eatery as a second phase of the project. Michael Schwartz's Genuine Pizza and Havana 1957 will also occupy this new shopping and dining area.The food hall, designed by the renowned Miami-based firm Arquitectonica, will gather 16 food and drink concepts under one roof, with indoor and outdoor seating for more than 200 people. A central bar will serve wine, beer, and cocktails.Unlike the upcoming Time Out Market — which will boast some of Miami's most established culinary names, such as Jeremy Ford, Jose Mendin, Michael Beltran, Michael Pirolo, and Alberto Cabrera — Lincoln Eatery is banking on new concepts that don't seem attached to major Miami players.According to Bittel, the restaurant tenants will be different from one another in order to offer a dining experience for every palate. "We are thrilled with the creative and delicious mix of cuisines and concepts that are joining forces us.”The concepts announced so far are as follows:

• Necessary Purveyor, offering sandwiches, teas, and house-made granola.
• Fresh Garden Bowls, serving salads, wraps, and fresh juices.
• Chill'N, a Miami-based nitrogen-ice-cream counter.
• Marble & Rye, a New York-style kosher deli.
• Tyo Sushi, a Japanese sushi spot serving modern takes on traditional items.
• Toast & More, a French bakery offering sweet and savory tartines.
• Gotam Pizza and Gotam Chimney Cakes, specializing in pizza and Hungarian chimney cakes.

The full roster of tenants will be announced later this year. The names of the restaurateurs and chefs behind the concepts haven't been revealed yet.The Lincoln Eatery will join an ever-growing list of Miami-area food halls, including La Centrale and Casa Tua Cucina at Brickell City Centre, Treats at Aventura Mall, St. Roch Market, 1-800-Lucky, and Jackson Hall. Other food halls on the horizon are Time Out Market, Wynwood Food Hall, Central Fare at Brightline, and the Citadel Miami.*This article was originally published on the Miami New Times by Laine Doss and can be found here.

This June, celebrity bodyguard-turned-entrepreneur Chris Kingen will expand his farm-to-bottle juice bar concept, Wellness Grub, with the opening of two new Miami locations, at the Equinox Fitness Clubs in South Beach (520 Collins Avenue) and Four Seasons Hotel Miami (1435 Brickell Avenue.) Since April 2017, Kingen has opened three other South Florida locations at Brickell Heights, Aventura Mall and the Shops at Merrick Park.“I’m thrilled to bring my special blends of organic juices and smoothies to the health-conscious South Beach community, as well as offer another convenient spot for residents, businesses and visitors to pick-up nutritious grub in bustling Downtown Miami,” says Kingen, a Brickell resident. “Wellness Grub is the perfect way to fuel up pre-or-post workout, or enjoy while on the run.”

*Read: Former Celebrity Bodyguard Opening Wellness Grub at Equinox Fitness Clubs in South Florida*

Open to the public, Wellness Grub serves grab-n-go, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, shots, and tonics, made with 100% organic, locally-sourced produce from Brothers Organic Farmers Market, as well as raw superfood bites to fuel and replenish the body and mind. Smoothies and juices can also be made-to-order at select locations. Many menu items are Kingen’s original blends, created while on the road working exhausting hours as a bodyguard for high-profile celebrities including music producer Dr. Dre, songstress Lisa Marie Presley, in addition to international diplomats.There are dozens of juices and smoothies to select from at Wellness Grub. Two of Kingen’s signature drinks – the Green Protein Ultra smoothie and Vital Greens juice – are rich in Vitamin A, iron and magnesium. Several favorites include the Citrus Glo, which features grapefruit, orange and lemon, while the beet-red Tru Blood juice is full of antioxidants to support the kidneys and liver.The bright, colorful shots and tonics are packed with concentrated doses of healing herbs, such as ginger, turmeric, cilantro, blue green algae, and ginseng. Food items include Mung Bean Pesto Pasta, Goji Berry Bites, Orange Vanilla Chia Pudding, Hummus, Kale Salad, and more. Additionally, Wellness Grub offers three juice cleanse programs suited for individual needs.“I founded Wellness Grub out of a passion to live a healthy lifestyle and also help others. Our customers know that what they are putting into their body is going to make them feel good. Every ingredient has a purpose,” Kingen adds.As a former bodyguard, Kingen, who is 6’7” and 240 lbs., had to use readily available ingredients during his travels and to this day, most of his smoothies continue to be reverse osmosis water-based. Smoothies are hand-blended and measured to the exact ounce to ensure the taste and quality of each product is always consistent. For optimal quality and an eco-friendly approach, products are packaged in glass bottles.A self-made entrepreneur, Kingen first learned about diet and exercise from his former client, Dr. Dre. In order to meet the demands of his job and eliminate processed foods from his diet, Kingen began traveling with a NutriBullet to make his own high-energy, nutrient-dense smoothies. Later, while working for the Saudi royal family, he deepened his knowledge of healthy foods and healing herbs, such as Mucuna pruriens and Shou Wu, which are incorporated into several of his products.Kingen is a longtime Equinox member so it only made sense that his farm-to-bottle products have a home at the premier fitness center. Although Kingen intended to start his juice business in Miami, the opportunity to open his first Wellness Grub at the Equinox in Lincoln Park, Chicago in 2015 was too good to pass up. Kingen received help from co-founder/partner Brian Ottmer, who assisted with menu creation and learned about nutrition and nutrient-dense food and smoothies while working in California.Today, Wellness Grub is in a total of six locations – three in Miami and three in Chicago. South Beach and Four Seasons Miami will bring the number to 8. Kingen has plans to further expand the brand.Kingen credits his mom, sister Heather, brother-in-law Rick, and friend Kathy Krenger for encouraging him to pursue his dreams. He partners with local businesses and events, including Equinox’s upcoming Cycle for Survival, to inspire others to live well.Get the blend on all things Wellness Grub at www.wellnessgrub.com and follow @wellnessgrub on Facebook and Instagram.

For the first time ever, PETA has named Miami as one of the top 10 vegan cities in the country. Highlighted restaurants included Atlas Meat-Free Deli, Bunnie Cakes, GLAM, Choices Cafe, Manna Life, Della Bowls and the Vegan Cafe by Chloe Coscarelli.Here's what PETA had to say about Miami:

Miami is known as the Magic City, and it does magical things with vegan food.

Take, for example, Atlas Meat-Free Delicatessen, a vegan butcher shop that serves Wood-Bone Wings (fried vegan chicken in hot sauce), Buttamlk Fried Chk’n, Kansas City Burnt Tips, and other hearty fare. And then there are the Spaghetti & Meatless Balls, Jackfruit “Al Pastor” Taco, Watermelon Ceviche, Truffles, Choco-cado Mousse, and Ube Pie (purple sweet potato custard with gingersnap crumble) at GLAM Vegan. No trip to Miami would be complete without enjoying the stunning views and exceptional vegan food at Plant Miami.Locals load up on healthy fare at Manna Life Foods—which specializes in “Life Bowls” loaded with creative and fresh veggie combinations, cold-pressed juices, and desserts—as well as at Della, where you can build-your-own “healthy bowl of happy” from an array of vegan proteins, veggies, and sauces. Choosy eaters can get exactly what they want at the all-vegan Choices Café, which offers plenty of tasty options in bowl or wrap form, including the Insane Mex with soy chorizo and cashew cheese, as well as brunch items, including The Kind Slam (pancake, tofu scramble, tempeh bacon or soysage patty), and more. Coconut Grove will go nutty for Miami’s recently opened and very first vegan food hall, V Shops, which features delicious eats from Choices Cafe as well as Neo’s Blender, a smoothie bar for kids. Also new to the scene is the restaurant of vegan chef Chloe Coscarelli: the Vegan Café. It features delicious “eats” like the Butternut Nachos (butternut-cashew queso, honee-Sriracha, seitan, guacamole, mango salsa, and a coconut-lime drizzle). If you still have room, don’t forget to get a taste of the Food Network Cupcake Wars award-winning cupcake, the Chocolate Strawberry Cupcake. Speaking of customization, at Bunnie Cakes Studio, which recently opened as an extension of the Bunnie Cakes Vegan Bakery, guests can decorate their own vegan cupcakes.See the rest of PETA's Top 10 Vegan Cities here.

Celebrity bodyguard-turned-entrepreneur Chris Kingen transformed his passion for healthy living into a rapidly-expanding business with the creation of Wellness Grub, a farm-to-bottle juice bar concept, located inside six Equinox Fitness Clubs in the U.S. Since April 2017, Kingen has opened three of those locations in South Florida (Brickell Heights, Aventura and Coral Gables) and is planning two new spots - coming soon in Miami.“My dream originally was to open a juice bar in Miami, but at the time, starting a new business in South Florida proved to be a challenge,” says Kingen. “I’m thrilled to finally bring my special blends of organic fruits and vegetable juices to the South Florida community.”Wellness Grub, which is open to non-Equinox members as well, serves grab-n-go, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, shots, tonics, and raw superfood bites and desserts made with 100% organic, locally-sourced ingredients to fuel and replenish the body and mind. Smoothies and juices can also be made-to-order at select locations. Many menu items are Kingen’s original blends, created while on the road working exhausting hours as a bodyguard for high-profile celebrities including music producer Dr. Dre, songstress Lisa Marie Presley, in addition to international diplomats.There are dozens of juices and smoothies to select from at Wellness Grub. Two of Kingen’s signature drinks – the Green Protein Ultra smoothie and Vital Greens juice – are rich in Vitamin A, iron and magnesium. Several favorites include the Citrus Glo, which features grapefruit, orange and lemon, while the beet-red Tru Blood juice is full of antioxidants to support the kidneys and liver.The bright, colorful shots and tonics are packed with concentrated doses of healing herbs, such as ginger, turmeric, cilantro, blue green algae, and ginseng. Food items include Mung Bean Pesto Pasta, Goji Berry Bites, Orange Vanilla Chia Pudding, Hummus, Kale Salad, and more. Additionally, Wellness Grub offers three juice cleanse programs suited for individual needs.Kingen adds, “I founded Wellness Grub out of a passion to live a healthy lifestyle and also help others. Our customers know that what they are putting into their body is going to make them feel good. Every ingredient has a purpose.”As a former bodyguard, Kingen had to use readily available ingredients during his travels and to this day, most of his smoothies continue to be reverse osmosis water-based. Smoothies are hand-blended and measured to the exact ounce to ensure the taste and quality of each product is always consistent. For optimal quality and an eco-friendly approach, products are packaged in glass bottles.At 38 years old, Kingen is a self-made entrepreneur who first learned about diet and exercise from his former client and mentor, Dr. Dre. In order to meet the demands of his job and eliminate processed foods from his diet, Kingen began traveling with a NutriBullet to make his own high-energy, nutrient-dense smoothies. Later, while working for the Saudi royal family, he deepened his knowledge of healthy foods and healing herbs, such as Mucuna pruriens and Shou Wu, which are incorporated into several of his products.Kingen is a longtime Equinox member so it only made sense that his farm-to-bottle-and-table products have a home at the premier fitness center. He opened his first Wellness Grub in 2015 in Lincoln Park, Chicago with help from co-founder/partner Brian Ottmer, who assisted with menu creation and learned about nutrition and nutrient-dense food and smoothies while working in California.Currently residing in Miami, Kingen credits his mom, sister Heather, brother-in-law Rick, and friend Kathy Krenger for encouraging him to pursue his dreams. He partners with local businesses and events, including Equinox’s upcoming Cycle for Survival, to inspire others to live well.Get the scoop on all things Wellness Grub at www.wellnessgrub.com and follow @wellnessgrub on Facebook and Instagram.

A health-minded café, bakery, salad and sandwich bar, and market have united to offer Fort Lauderdale its first all-vegan spot specializing in plant-based foods.On April 20, Vegan Fine Foods opened at 330 NW Second St. in the city's Riverwalk neighborhood. The 4,000-square-foot space is a one-stop shop for those looking for organic produce and vegan groceries, eat a healthy meal, have a cup of coffee, or sip a glass of wine or beer.Vegan Fine Foods is the brainchild of Florida Atlantic University professor Steven Smith, who says he styled the market and eatery after a number of his favorite brands, including the New York City-based upscale grocery chain Dean & DeLuca. The venue offers an array of organic produce, vegan products, coffee and tea at the in-house café, and a bar where patrons can craft bowls, wraps, pitas, hot "dawgs," and veggie burgers.Smith says he switched to a totally plant-based diet after the stress of obtaining two postgraduate degrees, and 20 years later, he remains a committed vegan."I saw an opportunity for an all-vegan market because I knew that shopping was a lot of work and very time-consuming for those wanting to maintain a vegan healthy lifestyle," Smith says. "I thought, Wouldn’t it be nice to go to a place where someone else did all the work, where you knew it was 100 percent plant-based and care was taken to select a broad array of superhealthy products with some vegan indulgences mixed in?"As a result, Vegan Fine Foods has been designed to appeal to a wide range of vegans and nonvegans alike by selling everything from smoothies, juices, and açaí bowls to Pinkberry's first vegan frozen yogurt. The business also has a mission to spotlight local vendors alongside national and international purveyors. Many of the more than 1,500 products are made by over 40 local vendors, such as the in-house Inika Café, from the Delray Beach-based Inika Foods, as well as local chef Olga Keller, known for her raw vegan cheese made from coconut."We like to say we are strictly vegan — but not just for vegans," Smith says. "Vegetarians, flexitarians, Paleos, carnivores — anyone looking to enjoy some plant-based foods are welcome and will find [something] they can enjoy."Vegan Fine Foods.330 NW Second St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-533-6412; veganfinefoods.com. Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday and Tuesday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.This was originally published on The Miami New Time by Nicole Danna and can be found here.

There's no place prettier than Planta. Open less than a month, David Grutman's chic, new, all-vegan SoFi spot is already a hotbed for celebrity visitors and Miami's elite — and its plant-based menu appeals to eaters of all kinds.The list of guests thus far includes actor Mark Wahlberg and NFL superstar Rob Gronkowski (who flexed together in the rooftop garden), Colombian singer J Balvin, Nicky Jam, and others.The plant-based menu is lengthy and includes raw/ceviche items, salads, small plates, pizza, sushi, and large plates. The restaurant's plant-based cocktails are heavily inspired by the on-site garden. New Times was invited to sample some of the offerings.As befits a Miami Beach restaurant, there are many "seafood" offerings. The coconut ceviche with corn nuts, date guajillo, pickled cucumber, and tortilla chips ($15.25) was tangy, creamy, and fresh; and a heart of palm "crab" cake with chana dal, coconut milk, and cilantro ($23.50) was an exact match for crab, texture-wise.For something more comforting, the cauliflower tots with truffled almond parmesan ($11.25) are rich and flavorful; and the "chicken" fried mushrooms with cilantro and chili lime sauce ($9) are crunchy and indulgent.Vegan nigiri is a rare find. Varieties include ahi watermelon with ginger; celeriac with olive oil and sea salt; carrot wasabi; and mushroom truffle soy ($2.75 per piece). The nigiri was a beautiful presentation, with the watermelon closely resembling tuna.The restaurant also offers pizzas made with nut cheese. The Frenchie pizza is topped with mushrooms, squash, arugula, cashew mozzarella, almond parmesan, and truffle vinaigrette ($19.50). Sweet and savory, it had a hearty, cheesy taste.For dessert, try the sweet-and-salty chocolate terrarium with mousse, peanut butter cream, chocolate date soil, and salted caramel ($11.50), or a creamy, cashew-flavored soft-serve ice cream of the day ($8).All in all, it was a plant-powered, supercolorful feast. Planta is the future of food for SoFi.Planta.850 Commerce St., Miami Beach; 305-397-8513; plantarestaurants.com. 5:30 to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5:30 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. *This article was originally published in The Miami New Times by Hannah Sentenac and can be found here.

Whole Foods is expanding its reach in South Florida with the opening of its sixth store in Broward County. The new Fort Lauderdale market will be located on the corner of North Federal Highway and SE 17th Street, making it the 17th South Florida location.“We are eager to serve the neighborhood and bring new high-quality grocery offerings to this community,” says Juan Nuñez, president of Whole Foods Market’s Florida Region.Although not slated to open until winter 2020, the store is expected to carry local brands — a large part of the supermarket chain’s philosophy.“Whole Foods is very famous for supporting local farmers and manufacturing,” explains Woody Descorbeth, grocery team leader of the Fort Lauderdale store at 2000 N. Federal Hwy. “We have a ton of local products here.”They include Buzzn Bee's unfiltered and unpasteurized honey, bee pollen, and raw honeycomb from West Palm Beach. Miami products include SuperFuzio's vegan nut butter, Branford’s marinades, and Shawnee’s Greenthumb organic popcorn coated with the superfood algae spirulina. “It’s good stuff,” Descorbeth says.In light of the recent and sudden closure of juice partner Jugofresh, it's not known whether Whole Foods will name a replacement company to fill the cold-press-juice gap. Earlier this month, the juice company's founder and CEO, Matthew Sherman, posted a candid list on social media explaining why JugoFresh shuttered and said, “When you sign a deal with a large company, it is difficult to maintain a clear brand message.”Little information has been released about the opening of the new Whole Foods. “Because this project is still so far out, no specific details are available regarding products or specific offerings in the store,” public relations coordinator Heather McCready says.Whole Foods Market.SE 17 Street and North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; wholefoodsmarket.com. Opening winter 2020.*This article was originally published in The Miami New Times by Alona Abbady Martinez and can be found here.

Change is in the air. Wynwood's popular Box Coffee has announced a rebranding to better align with the new direction of the company. Shifting gears to Box Cold Brew,the brand will not only specialize in cold brewed coffee, but fresh cold brewed teas.The timing couldn't have been better with the dog days of summer approaching, Miami locals are sure to gravitate to the refreshing drinks. The Instagram worthy shipping container is no longer, but Box Cold Brew guarantees that it will be back, and has moved to their new home at VOAH Campus, right behind Beaker & Gray.

Box Coffee days - photo by Marilyn OrozcoAccording to numerous scientific studies, cold brewed coffee is also lower in acidity when compared to hot brewed coffee. This is great news for consumers that suffer from acid re-flux and other stomach issues. If giving up coffee isn't an option for you, then you can switch to cold brew and still have your daily dose and feel the difference. Coffee overall contains beneficial nutrients like phytochemicals, antioxidants and is a natural metabolism booster. So for those looking for a natural pre-workout drink, here it is. We recommend the Rico Suave - a drink served over ice with cold brew coffee, organic chocolate, vanilla and milk.Box Cold Brew's new line of cold brewed teas are sure to be a summer staple for health-minded consumers.their own teas too. Studies have shown that cold brew teas versus teas that are steeped in hot water, contain higher levels of polyphenols, which is the main antioxidant you hear green tea lovers rave about."We want to be everywhere in Miami" says owner Lucas Cravero. "That'd definitely be a treat. In the meantime, you can also come hangout with the Box Cold Brew family and grab a drink at VOAH for anything between $5 and $6, or pick some up at Milam's Markets."All of their drinks are served in biodegradable cups and there are also growlers available for your caffeine fix.

Box Cold Brew's tea lineup at VOAH - Photo courtesy of Box Cold Brew

Box Cold Brew's new home - Photo courtesy of Box CoffeeBox Cold Brew - 10 NE 27th St, Miami, FL 33137; (305) 433-1443; www.boxcoffeemia.com/; Monday through Wednesday 9 A.M. to 7 P.M., Thursday through Saturday 9 A.M. to 8 P.M., Sunday 10 A.M. to 4 P.M.

Wynwood Yard founder Della Heiman and restaurateur Ken Lyon are opening a new health-conscious food hall this spring.Jackson Hall, located in the Civica Center at Jackson Health District, will offer five different food concepts and a small marketplace in its 10,000-square-foot space. In addition, a hydroponic garden by Cincinnati-based 80 Acres Farms is planned for the third floor of the venue.Heiman explains that the project began when business partner Ken Lyon found out about a vacant food court space in the hospital campus from a chef at the Wynwood Yard. "A couple of hours later, Ken called me. We are already committed to open a second Yard in North Beach and Ken thought he would have to sell me on the idea, but I got it in 30 seconds."Heiman, who is passionate about finding ways to make healthy food more affordable and accessible, thought opening a food hall at Jackson was an opportunity to do something interesting with a unique demographic. "It's more than creating a wellness-focused food hall. It's about creating community and warmth in an environment that's very sterile."Unlike Wynwood Yard, which offers space to individual owner/operators, Jackson Hall's concepts will all be owned and operated by Heiman and Lyon. Miami chefs Julie Frans and Nicole Votano will head the culinary program, with Votano developing recipes that include plant-based and gluten-free choices. Items will feature foods free of hormones, antibiotics, partially hydrogenated oils, synthetic colorings and preservatives, artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, and other highly refined sweeteners.Frans is establishing an educational component that will work closely with the various hospitals and medical centers at the Jackson campus to help provide nutritional offerings based on the dietary needs of outpatients. First up is Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, where Frans is developing color-coded menu options for patients undergoing different treatments. Heiman says she wants patients to feel comfortable eating foods based on their specific recovery process.The five concepts at Jackson Hall include Della Bowls, Charcoal (featuring meats cooked on a Josper rotisserie), Leo & Bloom Delicatessen (offering soups, salads, and sandwiches), Island Poke, and Levant (a Middle Eastern concept serving kabobs, shawarma, and mezze).In addition, the Radiate Apothecary + Bar at Jackson Hall will offer freshly made juices, smoothies, kombucha, elixirs, tonics, beer, wine, and spirits. The beverage program will be directed by Susan Duprey, a certified nutritionist, former bartender, and founder of Radiate Miami.The space will also offer a petite market with grab and go items, and a mobile app where busy healthcare professionals can order meals to go for their entire families. Says Heiman: "I know so many doctors that eat pizza and bagels because they're too exhausted to even think about shopping for themselves after a 12-hour shift."In the works is a retail component where people can buy gifts and flower crowns for patients, and a positivity library where people can borrow or buy books that make you laugh or provide comfort.Jackson Hall will also offer an event series that will include yoga, nutrition classes, wellness lectures, and happy hours with live music in the afternoon. Heiman says the event schedule won't be as robust as at the Wynwood Yard but feels an educational and entertainment component is important. "We hope that this will be a refuge where people can recalibrate."*This story was originally published in the Miami New Times by Laine Doss and can be found here*

The "New Year, New Me" mentality is still here as we slowly make it out of January. While we have the best intentions to get to that smoking-hot summer body, it's hard to stay committed while sacrificing the things we enjoy most. In order to gain the best results, consistency and making the best choices for ourselves should become a lifestyle rather than a phase. You shouldn't have to sacrifice the things that make you - well, you!

Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts enjoy happy hours. Who doesn't? For most, the word moderation isn't in their vocabulary. If we are cognizant about the choices we make, there are usually alternatives that won't jeopardizing your macros and of all of the alcoholic beverages available, beer always gets the bad rap. Many complain that beer is filled with high and empty calories, which is usually followed by that bloated feeling with over-consumption. Lets face it, the only six pack everyone wants to see when lifting up their shirts are abs!

M.I.A Beer Company has heard Miami and they have brewed, tapped and even canned their own version of spiked seltzer water, called HRD WTR. HRD WTR is brewed with champagne yeast and is gluten-free meaning the gluten malt, usually used in beers, is removed. Beer is also heavy on carbohydrate calories, but each serving of HRD WTR is just 147 calories, only 5 g of carbs and has 5% alcohol content. M.I.A Beer Company has starting distributing the fitness-friendly beverage to bars, restaurants as well as local markets with their four pack, 16 ounce cans.

Create carb-conscious cocktails with HRD WTR as mixers or simply consume as is. It's like drinking a refreshing glass of flavored sparkling water, but you will be feeling a little "hoppy" at happy hour. HRD WTR comes in cucumber lemon lime, blueberry, grapefruit, orange, and key lime. As always, drink responsibly and cheers!

For fresh on tap HRD WTR you can visit M.I.A Beer Company 10400 NW 33rd St #150, Doral, FL 33172; (786)801-1721. Open everyday at noon.

Going out for happy hour always adds up; when it comes to our wallets and our caloric intake. It’s always hard finding a balance between spending the right amount of money on what is good for you. SuViche, who has currently four open locations in Miami Dade with another one coming soon in Doral, has the perfect happy hour menu that will both make your wallet and fitness goals (along with your tummy) smile.SuViche is the fusion of sushi and ceviche bringing the Japanese and Peruvian world as one. Sushi, when consumed in moderation and not fried, is the perfect comfort food that is packed with protein and just the right amount of carbs. Ceviche on the other hand, is protein packed in a bowl, which is simply a fish or seafood dish marinated in lime juice and other natural explosive flavors.SuViche has their very own 500 calories or less menu in which you can indulge. Their guiltfree menu includes starters which are salad dishes, ceviches, tiraditos, tasteful specialties and sushi. While below, two of their popular dishes are mentioned just note that there is more to choose from. Their entire menu can be found online.Their Tuna Tataki is a dish of tuna slices served over sashimi avocado, toasted peanuts, and their homemade Orange Honey Tataki sauce. You can have this dish for $6.

Another popular guilt-free dish is their Natural Ceviche which is simple yet packed with many flavors. This dish includes morsels of white fish marinated in lime juice and their special Peruvian sauce. The dish is then garnished in canchita, choclo and camote topped with crispy onions that adds the right final crunch to it. The happy hour dish portion is smaller than the regular menus, but the happy hour version is great for one person while the one in the regular menu can be shared. Happy hour price is $5 and regular price is $7.95 but there is a larger portion priced at $12.95 as well.

Happy hour is every day from 3 P.M. to 7 P.M. Yes, you read that right every day. If your macros allow it and you’re thirsty for something other than water then you can also kick back $4 beers, wine and sake or $5 of what they like to call “harder stuff”. Stop by any of their location and get saucy!SuViche locations: Brickell 49 SW 11th St., Miami, FI 33130; South Beach 1119 16th St., Miami Beach, FI 33139; Wynwood 2751 N, Miami Ave. Miami, FI 33127; Marlins Park (behind home plate during games) 501 Marlins Way, Miami, FL 33125

Tucked away, from the hustle and bustle of the main streets of Wynwood is a community center working to change the way Miamians see the world. Love Life Wellness Center opened two years ago with a specific mission: inspire people to wake-up each morning and love life.Co-founded by Veronica Menin, the concept for the center was brought on by her own journey for self-love. Following a break-up, Menin committed to putting an end to the outside influences affecting her self-outlook. This started her down the path to inner love, beginning with healthy eating through a vegan diet.“I learned to be more mindful about other living beings and the environment. Choosing what I put on my plate affected the way I treated others and the way I wanted to live my life,” says Menin. “It was a domino effect and from there everything began to fall into place.”During this time, yoga teacher Megan Elizabeth, approached Menin with the idea of partnering-up to open a studio together. Around the same time, the third partner of Love Life Wellness Center, Diego Tosoni, presented an idea of a café to fuel the body and soul. And with this, Life Life Wellness Center took form.From the start, Menin envisioned the center as a place where she could be every day, interacting one-on-one with patrons, and creating a true community where people could get a full circle experience, knowledge and education.“My dream was to bring together people that were creating other conscious, amazing things in the community, to share their knowledge,” Menin explains. “I wanted to touch upon all different sides of life - food, exercise, spirituality - all of it working together is the most efficient way to make a change in someone’s life.”

The day I was at Love Life Wellness Center I saw first-hand the inspiring energy a community can bring. In one part of the center a group of students were participating in the Yoga Training program. All huddled around one of the communal tables located in the center of the space, studying, conversing, questioning and debating. While other folks were sprinkled throughout the large area, feeding off the environment as they worked on laptops, using the center’s free Wi-Fi, and others still were enjoying the delicious bites from the café.I questioned why creating a community was so important to her. She explained that through years of studying as a health coach, she has seen the positive effect that being part of a community can have on people. In fact, Dr. Emma Seppala from Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) says that “when connection with others is present, it can boost mental and physical health, and even increase immunity and longevity.” As this belief is a pillar of the Love Life Wellness Center, Menin and team strive to connect individuals that want to love themselves, to eat well, to take care of their body, their spirit; creating a space that gives off a feeling of comfort and belonging.When asked what her future vision is for the center, Menin explains that “the goal is to provide different things throughout the day from acupuncture, to meditation, to a start-up 101 class, education on how to get energized in the middle of the day, and so on. So, when people sit here to work they are getting other tools to help their life.”

*Read: Miami's Best Yoga Studios - Where to Practice in 2017*

Additionally, Menin is beginning to branch out, developing an outpatient program for people in recovery from addiction. The outpatient program will center around yoga, meditation and nutrition and will be led by a clinical therapist, helping patients get back on their feet.The café is also blossoming; an entity that started out with as a simple idea of serving smoothies, wraps and acai bowls. Having evolved into a full kitchen, available across the many local delivery platforms, Tosoni, who leads this part of the center, creates the menu around the things he loves to eat and wants to share with others.Starting out as wanting to have a positive impact on the world, Menin and company have developed the center into a place where people can connect with other individuals that want to love themselves, to eat well, to take care of their body, and their spirit. A space that gives off a feeling of comfort and belonging.Menin believes that whatever you do, if you do it with an open heart and gratitude, and appreciate every moment, you can love your life the way it is presented to you right now. That, she says, is what happiness really means.Join the community located at 584 NW 27th Street in Wynwood and check out their schedule of events and activities, and the café.

Miamians can call a Lyft, grab a Lime scooter, or hop on a Citi Bike all from the palm of their hand. And beginning next week, they'll also be able to jump on a paddleboard.

The Florida-based paddleboard-sharing company Padl will launch next week in Key Biscayne. This marks the first time Padl will be available to the public after a private launch at the South Beach Place hotel in Vero Beach.

Padl cofounder Andres Avello says he wants to make it easier for everyone to get out on the water. He's been an avid paddleboarder for more than 30 years and calls the sport his passion. He views it as a great way to get some exercise but also connect with the environment.

"When you're out there and you see a manatee or a school of fish swim right next to you, it changes your opinion about where you live and what we have access to," he says.

Padl works like any other ridesharing or rental service. Once users download the app, they can rent and unlock the paddleboards from their smartphone. A map shows the locations of available Padl boards at stations throughout South Florida. To unlock a board from its secure station, users select the one they want and follow the step-by-step prompts on the screen. The paddleboards cost $20 per hour to rent and come with a leash, paddle, and a life jacket.

Unlike scooters, Padl boards must be returned to the station because of the sensitive environment in which they are used. The Padl stations are solar-paneled and self-sufficient, and each board is equipped with GPS and a cellular connection so adventurers can track their route and communicate. The GPS also comes in handy if anyone gets lost. Padl has partnered with Sea Tow to pick up any stragglers by vessel.

Don't expect daredevils to be out on the water during a storm. Padl boards are locked down during dangerous marine conditions and become unavailable to rent on the app.

To begin, four boards will be available for rent at Key Biscayne's Beach Park at 695 Ocean Dr., but Avello hopes to expand service rapidly. Padl aims to open ten stations by the end of this year.

"We just want to make paddleboarding simple and available to everyone," Avello says.

This article was originally published in the Miami New Times by Jess Nelson, and can be found here.

The Sun is the center of our Astro life and the ruler of Leo. When the whole universe revolves around you, it's hard to keep the ego in check.

Like the Sun, Leo's heat everything in life up, as well as the drama (think Madonna, Kylie Jenner, and J-lo energy). And when the sun goes down, the Leo temper goes up. So those of you who have a Leo significant other or bestie know to try and keep them happy and shining like the sun or expect an explosion.

Leo is the sign of drama, and boy can they put on a show! A natural-bornleader, they love to be the boss.

Leos also need to overdose in love and attention, which may cause people to think you have a big ego, which you do, but the real truth is, you have an even bigger heart, and you’re one of the zodiac’s most generous signs. You’re always there to help, spoil, and protect the people you love.

Your energy may be hard for others to match and there is neverany boredom in your presence. 

So what workouts are best during the dramatic and dazzlingseason of the Lion? 

Leos are extremely competitive, they like to be the best at everything they do and they won’t stop until you acknowledge it. So, you could expect a Leo to thrive in a Flywheel room. Hello, lights camera, scoreboard! A workout where they can be left alone to their own thoughts, and still be seen and praised. Basically, a dream come true. See you in the front row, no alias names here.

Leos are full of fire, and when the fire season hits in Miami, a good cool down could be needed. Leo season is a perfect time to try a watersport, such as a SUP yoga class or a water biking studio. We’ve recently tried Element Aqua and fell in love with the low impact, high-intensity workout, that kept us high on endorphins but calm and cool on the inside.

Leos love a good performance, and they love to feel sexy. There is no Leo who would resist a Vixen Workout. Performance, sweat, and drama - sign me up!

If you have a Leo Sun, Rise or Moon you can expect this month to leave you feeling amazing as the sun illuminates all of your positive qualities. You are at your peak of the year. Its time to go after whatever it is you want before year-end.

For the rest of us, we will be soaking up the last of the summersun. Take a chance on an invitation to a workout you would normally turn down,allow yourself to let your hair down and step into the spotlight, this is thetime to let out your FIERCE! 

The streets of Miami are not particularly bike-friendly, but that’s not stopping Miamians from hitting the streets for a little two-wheel exercise.

So where does Miamilike to bike? We asked our STAY FIT 305 community for their favorite bikespots, and here is where they suggested for your next ride.

Venetian Causeway

The Venetian Causeway has long been a biking favorite ofMiami cyclists. The city and bay views attract hobbyists and casual bikersalike.

Make sure you are taking extra safety precautions before gettingon your bike, and stayalert at all intersections.

Shark Valley

The Everglades National Park is the third largest park in the continental U.S. At the very tip of the park, is a smaller area known as Shark Valley, complete with a 15-mile paved bike loop. Feel free to bring your own bike or rent one from the Visitors Center, and get ready to see some really cool wildlife along the ride. This is a safe and easy place for beginners to start biking. Make sure to use our biking newbie-friendly tips.

Rickenbacker Causeway – Virginia Key/Key Biscayne

Another uber-popular bike route, the Rickenbacker Causeway, Virginia Key, and Key Biscayne loop is a bikers dream – flat road, gorgeous seaside views, and a nice distance. The Rickenbacker Causeway hill provides for a nice challenge.

MiamiBeach Board Walk (South of 21st Street)

For those who don’t live on the beach, this is a really great way to explore the area from a different viewpoint. Our advice is to not only take your bike on the Boardwalk from 21st street to 5th street but to continue on and explore south of 5th.

Wynwood

What better way to explore the colorful Wynwood murals than on a bike? You can rent a citibike for a couple of hours and zip up and down the artistic streets of this vibrant neighborhood. There will definitely be a few murals you’ve never seen before.

Ever wonder how Europeans stay so fit despite all the croissants and pastries? Europeans have been practicing Water biking for years. Luckily for us, this aquatic fitness revolution has hit Miami.

Water biking at its core is a low impact, high intensity, full body underwater cycling class held in a pool. WaterBiking Studio in downtown Coral Gables is the first aquatic cycling studio in South Florida offering not only, water biking classes, but several classes on various aquatic fitness platforms.

Why Exercise in the Water?

People often associate exercising in the water with an elderly demographic. However, water workouts offer multiple benefits for any fitness level and age group.

Exercising in the water burns body fat while building cardiovascular stamina, strength and flexibility.

Since water is denser than air, it provides about 12 times more resistance. Therefore, each set of movements done during a water workout strengthen your arms, legs, shoulders and core.

Top Benefits of Working Out in the Water

• Increase Muscle Strength
• Improve Cellulite
• Helps with Arthritis
• Easy on Joints
• Increases Flexibility
• Assists with Lactic Acid Drainage

Workouts offered at WaterBiking Studio Coral Gables

All the classes offered at WaterBiking Studio Coral Gables are held in their indoor heated pool. One will experience a full body, low impact, high-intensity workout, regardless of what class guests register to take.

• WaterBiking
• WaterCircuit
• Aqua Strength
• Bike&Core
• Restore&Renew

WaterBiking Studio Coral Gables is offering a 15% discount on any 5, 10, and 20 class packs. Use the code "STAYFIT305" to get the discount.

For more information on WaterBiking Studio Coral Gables, visit https://waterbikingstudio.com/.