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Archive for the 'Out and About' Category

Coconut Grove Local Favorite Could Be on it’s Last Leg

Scotty’s Landing has long been known by the Grove locals for its beautiful views of Dinner Key, Biscayne Bay, burgers and fish sandwiches.

Since Scotty’s location is off the beaten trail, most visitors to Coconut Grove never get there.  That being said, it is always busy.  Whenever it is a beautiful day and you want to have a drink and bite by the water, Scotty’s is the place.  It’s a laid back, friendly, t-shirt, shorts and flip-flop kind of place.  As close as you can get to the Florida Keys lifestyle without making the drive.

Unfortunately, the 35 year lease that includes Scotty’s, the Grove Key Marina and Chart House is ending this year and the City of Miami is considering other options for that entire area.  The city has published a worldwide request for proposals for an improved marina, including a “casual outdoor restaurant” that would appeal both to locals and to tourists.

As someone that lives and works here in Coconut Grove, it would really be a shame to loose this treasure.

Click here to read the entire article….

If you or someone you know are looking for a real estate professional who specializes in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and South Miami realty, give me a call at 305-987-2644 or send me a note here.

Yellow Ribbons around Town, What’s it all about?

If your are familiar with that classic song by Tony Orlando and Dawn (yes, I was around then) you might be thinking that all these yellow ribbons around Coconut Grove have something to do with the armed forces.

EWM Realtors Coconut Grove Office

Well, they are actually displayed to bring attention to the plight of the Coconut Grove Playhouse.  They represent the “Give it Back” campaign.  This movement, planned by the Village of Center Grove (VOCG) neighborhood group. is planned for April 2 — the goal is to get 1000 people or more to show up to take over the Playhouse as part of their initiative.

The Coconut Grove Playhouse

The Coconut Grove Playhouse Board of Directors was freely given and accepted official ownership and responsibility for the Playhouse in 2004 by the State of Florida.  Since that time, it had been run into the ground. It closed, finally, in 2006, in financial ruin.

You can read the full article here.

We love Coconut Grove and the playhouse is an integral part of the village and historic landmark.  It’s definitely worth saving.

First-Time Homebuyers Welcome!!

Congratulations to my clients that closed on their very first home last Friday.

This lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath pool home had been lovingly cared for by the previous owners for over 20 years.

Finding a nice home, with enough space for a growing family and in this price range was a challenge but with patience and perseverance we found the perfect home for them and got a pool as a bonus.

If you or someone you know is looking for a real estate professional to assist with the sale or purchase of a home, give me a call at 305-987-2644 or send me a note here.

 

2012 – Looking forward to it!!

“Hello” to a brand-new year, and “good-bye” to the one just past…

 May each new day that comes your way be happier than the last!

Coconut Grove – Then and Now

If you want to catch up on your Coconut Grove history and see some really interesting photos, check out this post in the Miami Social Diary, Coconut Grove: From Arquitectonica to Zenby Augustus Mayhew.  It is kind of a photo tour highlighting Coconut Grove, past and present.

His article includes information on several areas such as Dinner Key (back when it was the Pan Am Seaplane Terminal) Mayfair in the Grove, Main Highway,  North Grove and The Kampong.

Whether your new to the area, a longtime resident or considering a move to our bayside community, this article offers interesting tidbits for all.

And as always, if you are considering buying or selling your home in our lovely, historic village, please call me at 305-987-2644 or email me at [email protected].

Open House – 2929 Center St, Coconut Grove Sunday, Aug 14, 2011 – 1:00 to 3:00

Happy, Happy, Happy New Year!!!

 
 
 
Happy-New-Year-2011
 
Wishing you every happiness and much prosperity in the New Year.
 
All the best to you and your family,  Leigh Fortuna
 
 

Coconut Grove (Miami) to the Florida Keys – Short Trip, Big Vacation

Key West sunsetFor those of you that follow my blog, you may have noticed a little break in blogging this last week.  I was on a much needed and truly valued vacation.  The best part for me is that I didn’t have to go too far.  One of the many benefits of living here in Coconut Grove (Miami) is it’s location to many coveted vacation spots.  None more frequented by this native Miamian than the Florida Keys.

Within 1 hour’s drive you are in this vacation paradise.  As a native, I have been going to the Keys all my life and for some reason, the minute I hit the infamous Card Sound Road I feel the stresses and tensions of everyday life just slip away.  It is almost magical how it happens every time. 

key west sloppy joesOn this trip, we spent the entire time in Key West, the southernmost point in the continental U.S.   The Florida Keys are known for their sunny days, spectacular sunsets and many water sports including boating, scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing.  In addition to the above, Key West also boasts of a lively nightlife, a variety of eateries and a sunset celebration every evening on Mallory Square.

I couldn’t have asked for more.  It was perfect.  I feel rested, refreshed and have a tan to boot.  

Well now I am back and ready to get back to work so, if you are looking for a real estate professional who specializes in Miami, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables or South Miami real estate, give me a call at 305-987-2644 or send me a note here. 

From Fresh Market to Shoppes of Mayfair, Peacocks, Peacocks Everywhere

As the 2010 Coconut Grove Peacock Tour progresses, there are new peacocks popping up all over town.   Here are three peacocks you can see strutting their stuff at The Shoppes of Mayfair and Fresh Market

Glitter Peacock

Golden Ring Peacock

 

The “Golden Ring Peacock” is the work of  The Miami Mosaic Academy’s founder Gina Hubler.  The mirrored detail on the peacock actually makes it appear to glow from within.  Sponsored by Gary Clark and Jeffrey Sibley it is a delightful and unique peacock.  Located on the east side of Mayfair on the corner of Mary Street and Grand Avenue.   

 

Other Peacock

Night and Day, you are the one

 

 

“Night and Day, you are the one” was created by Fred Hunt and is sponsored by the Mayfair Center.   Mayfair in the Grove is an open-air promenade lined with shops and galleries with a tiled fountain and seating areas that invite one to linger.  This peacock sits at the Promenade entrance to Mayfair, located at 2911 Grand Avenue. 

 

 

Coco Fresca

Coco Fresca

 

“Coco Fresca” was created by artist Nancy Martini  who is an “eco-artist” and specializes in using recycled materials to bring
her art to life.  Sponsored by Fresh Market, Coco Fresca is located in front of their store located at 2640 S. Bayshore Drive.  All the proceeds of the sale of this peacock at the end of the tour, will be donated a very deserving, local non-profit, Shake-A-Leg Miami.  Shake-A-Leg is a foundation that helps children and adults with physical, developmental and economic challenges.

 

 

Click here for an interactive map of the locations for all the Coconut Grove peacocks.

If you or someone you know is looking for a real estate professional who specializes in Coconut Grove real estate, give me a call at 305-987-2644 or send me a note here.

Miami Spice – try it, you’ll like it!!

food

Being a bit of a foodie, I love this time of year.  Each summer, beginning in August, several of Miami’s top restaurants participate in a citywide promotion known as “Miami Spice“.  All over town, popular eateries are offering 3-course prix fixe menus from world renowned chefs featuring their signature dishes.  The goal?  To get you and me to step outside of our comfort zones and try someplace and something new!

I have to say that in years past, it has definitely worked for me and my circle of friends.  There is so much available here in Miami with all it’s diversity, it would be a shame not to taste every part of it. 

The promotion began August 1st and continues through the end of September.  Lunches are $22 and dinners are $35.  If you are interested in expanding your epicurean horizons, here is the list of the participating restaurants and menus available.

From one foodie to another, ENJOY!!