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Nestled in the vibrant Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, Mayami stands as a beacon of culinary innovation and immersive dining experiences. With its location at 127 NW 23rd St, Mayami offers guests a delightful fusion of exquisite cuisine, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Exclusive: Simu Liu talks ‘Arthur the King’ movie – Mark Wahlberg [VIDEO]
Grab your tissues and some treats because we have the most PAWsome movie to tell you about! Arthur the King is based on the true story of Mikael Lindnord (played by Mark Wahlberg) and a stray that he named Arthur. In the movie, the two bond over meatballs, Arthur becomes smitten, and the pair race through the Dominican Republic together. In real life, Lindnord raced across Ecuador with the mutt. The movie explores how a “ruff” lookin’ pup unites a team of people pushing their limits.
Excitingly, Arthur the King has partnered with Best Friends Animal Society to bring attention to dog adoption.
The Knockturnal enjoyed a private screening of Arthur the King with Mikael Lindnord… AND surprise appearances by Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, the “Arthur” pup, and more at Westfield Century City AMC in Los Angeles!
Set up outside the movie theater was an official Arthur the King PAWty with bites, beverages, epic photo booths, a climbing wall, a pup adoption center, and a K9 playpen! A DJ blasted Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch’s iconic single “Good Vibrations” while calligraphers created custom paw print art for animal lovers.
Along the green carpet… DOG HAIR? Don’t care! Pup-arazzi caught Mikael Lindnord using a lent roller down Simu Liu’s top after Simu posed for several photos with his adopted canine, Chopa! Simu met Chopa on the set of Arthur the King. (Chopa was a background mutt. No autographs, please.) Simu, who plays adrenaline influencer “Leo” in the film, tells The Knockturnal’s Kinsey Schofield that the international adoption process was difficult and he would like to improve travel protocols. (Listen to him explain in the interview above.)
Raise the woof! Arthur the King hits theaters March 15th!
Kinsey Schofield is a contributor to The Knockturnal and you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram.
The five design houses of KiyoKa Hase, Miari Shigeta, Sun Below, Re Rhee And Yaxin Zone displayed their exquisite creations and diverse fashion palettes.
My absolute personal favorite show was by Japanese brand and designer KiyoKa Jade, which played with textures and layers using the hues of grey, black and whites. The designs were futuristic and out-of-the-box and I could definitely imagine rappers such as Playboi Carti wearing the detailed and baggy looks that were completed with oversized circular black sunglasses.
My second personal favorite was the fashion brand Yaxin Zone by Taiwanese designer Ya-Hsin Chung. Her fabrics were thick, cozy and fluffy and offered a fashionable alternative to winter puffers, with its warm layering. As a contradiction to the soft materials, the designer featured diagonal stitchings of huge zippers and most pieces were asymmetrical, which created a unique experience for onlookers at each turn.
The designer focused heavily on making her creations interesting from all angles, being that an equal amount of focus on detail was placed on the front, sides and back of the outfits. Ya-Hsin also played with accessories such as bags and clip-on, clip-off layers of clothing, so fashionistas can easily transform looks from short to long and vice-versa.
In the bustling heart of Upper Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood lies a hidden gem that promises not just a place to stay, but an unforgettable experience. As someone who’s always on the lookout for the latest hotspots in the Big Apple, I recently had the pleasure of immersing myself in the vibrant energy of Radio Hotel, and let me tell you, it exceeded all expectations.
A Boutique Lifestyle Haven
Radio Hotel isn’t just your average lodging; it’s a lifestyle destination. With 221 thoughtfully curated rooms, this boutique hotel offers guests a unique blend of modern comfort and urban chic. From the moment you step foot into the lobby, you’re greeted by an ambiance that’s both stylish and welcoming, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.
Jalao NYC: A Taste of Dominican Culture
One of the standout features of Radio Hotel is its culinary offering, Jalao NYC. This Dominican restaurant not only tantalizes the taste buds with its authentic flavors and inventive dishes but also serves as a cultural hub, celebrating the rich heritage of the local community. From mouthwatering mofongo to delectable pastelitos, every bite is a journey through the vibrant streets of Santo Domingo.
Above The Heights: Elevating Events at the Radio Hotel
“Above The Heights” at the Radio Hotel introduces a private rooftop event space, boasting panoramic skyline views exclusively for gatherings. Positioned as the pinnacle of luxury event venues, it offers meticulous attention to detail and unmatched elegance. Whether hosting lavish celebrations or high-profile corporate events, this exclusive venue sets the stage for unforgettable experiences. As the latest addition to the city’s social scene, Above The Heights promises unparalleled event experiences in a truly elevated setting.
A Hub of Creativity and Culture
Radio Hotel isn’t just a place to lay your head; it’s a hub of creativity and culture. Nestled within the Historic Washington Heights Community, this hotel serves as a gateway to a neighborhood steeped in history and tradition. From the vibrant murals adorning the streets to the rhythmic beats of salsa music that fill the air, every corner of Washington Heights tells a story waiting to be discovered.
Spacious Sanctuaries
As someone who appreciates a bit of flair in their accommodations, I was delighted to find that the rooms at Radio Hotel are nothing short of spectacular. Spacious, stylish, and oh-so-funky, each room is a testament to modern design and urban sophistication. From the playful pops of color to the quirky decor accents, every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a stay that’s as comfortable as it is memorable.
Photo Credit: Radio Hotel & Jalao NYC
Crowne Plaza HY36: Where Luxury Meets Convenience in the Heart of Hudson Yards
Nestled in the vibrant and chic Hudson Yards neighborhood of New York City, Crowne Plaza HY36 stands as a beacon of luxury and convenience. As a pop culture journalist with a penchant for the finer things in life, I recently had the pleasure of experiencing this gem of a hotel firsthand, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
Location, Location, Location
One of the many highlights of Crowne Plaza HY36 is its prime location. Situated in the trendy Hudson Yards area, the hotel offers unparalleled access to some of the city’s best attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for indulgent shopping at the nearby Hudson Yards Mall, craving a culinary adventure at one of the area’s renowned restaurants, or seeking awe-inspiring views from The Vessel and The Edge observation deck, everything you desire is just a stone’s throw away.
A Stay Like No Other
Stepping into Crowne Plaza HY36 feels like entering a sanctuary of modern elegance. The sleek and stylish design of the hotel exudes sophistication, while the warm and welcoming atmosphere instantly puts guests at ease. During my recent stay, I was thoroughly impressed by the impeccable service provided by the friendly and attentive staff. From check-in to check-out, every interaction was met with genuine hospitality and a genuine desire to ensure a memorable experience.
Rooms Fit for Royalty
As I made my way to my room, I couldn’t help but admire the sleek and contemporary decor that adorned the hallways. Upon entering my spacious accommodation, I was greeted by a serene oasis that boasted modern amenities and luxurious comforts. The plush bedding, ample workspace, and state-of-the-art technology were just a few of the many touches that made me feel right at home. And let’s not forget the breathtaking views of the city skyline that served as the perfect backdrop to my stay.
Indulgence at Every Turn
Crowne Plaza HY36 goes above and beyond to cater to every whim and desire of its guests. Whether you’re looking to maintain your fitness routine at the expansive gym or unwind with a delicious meal and craft cocktail at the attached Burgerology Midtown restaurant and bar, the hotel leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing a truly exceptional experience. Check out this Reel on our experience!
Photo Credit: Crowne Plaza HY36
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live – A Satisfying and Heartwarming Journey
Over the past six years, Rick Grimes and Michonne have been absent from the main series of The Walking Dead, leaving their fates open for further exploration. During this time, four spin-offs emerged including Dead City, which I lauded for its distinctive storytelling approach and quality as compared to other spin-offs in the franchise.
In addition to revisiting these beloved characters, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live sheds light on the enigmatic CRM organization and Rick Grimes’ evolution since his arrival while exploring the enigmatic CRM organization. I have had the chance to view the first four episodes of this series, and I can say with certainty that it has been well worth the wait.
His portrayal of Rick Grimes as a transformed character, a character that adapts his persona to deceive the CRM while strategizing his escape is well-executed by Andrew Lincoln. It is clear that his continuous evasion of the military presence has been the reason for his absence from The Walking Dead continuity for over five years.
As Rick’s prolonged predicament is presented in the series’ premiere, he is introduced to a significant narrative from the comics which is masterfully integrated into the series’ premiere. While the scene is quite impactful, I regret the partial reveal in teaser trailers of this scene. Additionally, as he writes letters to the CRM, Rick addresses long-standing questions about the CRM.
The relentless search Michonne makes for Rick gives her a greater sense of her character, allowing us to gain a greater understanding of her involvement in the migration unit. There are excellent performances from supporting actors in these sequences which contribute to the overall portrayal of Michonne’s journey, giving the film a comprehensive feel.
The Ones Who Live has the capability of including dream sequences in its episodes that, at first, I found myself confused. However, I was quickly reassured as soon as I watched episode four, and that any confusion or uncertainty I had was quickly resolved as soon as I watched it. In a sense, it stands out as one of the franchise’s finest moments, offering a captivating and phenomenal hour of television. The show’s title, “The Ones Who Live,” is given even greater significance in this episode, enhancing the overall viewing experience and leaving an impression on the audience long after the episode has ended, making a lasting impact.
Although the series is very well balanced between action, suspense, and character development, it could have benefited from a longer episode count in terms of narrative depth. It is worth noting, however, that exposition-heavy storytelling recurring in all Walking Dead installments persists to a lesser degree in this one.
Compared to World Beyond and Fear The Walking Dead, The Ones Who Live presents the CRM as a credible threat, which addresses previous shortcomings in both series. The complexities of Rick Grimes’ confinement, while not explicitly discussed, are subtly implied for viewers familiar with the previous installment.
A captivating journey about survival as well as the human spirit, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live is a testament to the enduring power of stories, art, and emotions. There are heart-pounding action sequences as well as poignant moments of reflection in this rollercoaster ride of emotions. It remains a cultural phenomenon for The Walking Dead as its series continues to evolve, and The Ones Who Live remains a shining example.
I have had the previous pleasure of getting the chance to give the behemoth that is the Ford F-150 Raptor a spin, and I was simply floored by the raw size, power, and presence that the vehicle dealt. However, it was immediately apparent that that vehicle was not designed for me. As someone who lives in New York City with no need for 75% of the F-150’s capabilities, I knew that while it would very well serve someone that sits in the niche it occupies, I would be doing it a disservice.
Enter the 2024 Ford Maverick. For every outrageous and ostentatious feature of the F-150, the Maverick had one economical and encompassing. Instead of the large road-commanding size of the F-150, the Maverick was sleek, slim, and much more manageable in the city. It also had a much better miles-per-gallon than the 5.0L V8 engine of the F-150, which allows for better savings in the long run, and a more feasible experience driving in traffic. I drove the heck out of the F-150, but the whole time, it felt like an exotic amusement park ride. With the Maverick, I felt like I was in a vehicle that I could actually see myself purchasing and using on the daily.
As a result, my pursuits with the Maverick were much more tame than those with the F-150. I took it to the supermarket, and loaded bags upon bags of food into the pickup bed. Groceries that I was usually stuffing into the deep crevices of my daily driver’s trunk were now comfortably seated beside each other. I dropped my brother to work, and we jammed out listening to our favorite tracks through the vehicle’s excellent surround sound speaker system, and didn’t feel any of New Jersey’s notorious potholes due to the impressive suspension. The interior was comfortable and not too complicated with insane features and buttons and dials; it got the job done. Wired CarPlay and Android Auto was also a big plus.
When it came to being a car, the Maverick did a pretty decent job. I was able to park it in downtown Manhattan in a regular parking space, and did not have to accommodate for big wheels or protruding grilles. However, it really shone when it came to being a truck. I took for a late night drive to Long Beach in Suffolk County, and on roads that were unevenly paved or not paved at all, and that twisted and winded through a foggy forest, the Maverick kept its cool and its traction. The Tremor package that was included helped in the off-road bits, with better suspension and Trail Control.
The auto high beams automatically illuminated when I came to a difficult hill or sharp turn with limited visibility. Finally, on the beach, it remained an excellent place for everyone to huddle in and talk while cranking the heat up (since it was February and we had no business going to a beach in the winter).
In all, the 2024 Maverick is the people’s truck. With less flash and more bang for buck, it provides a safe economical option that doesn’t sacrifice functionality, and will no doubt save you the $100k+ that the F-150 can surmount to be. This is not even considering the fact that the Maverick offers a hybrid option, which will save you even more on gas with each trip. As the F-150’s smaller brother, it has fewer bells and whistles, but all of the charm, and all of the potential to make a great trip even greater.
Sip and Celebrate: Unveiling Our Favorite Valentine’s Day Cocktails, Celebrating BHM with Fior Scotch and More!
Josh Cellars Wines’
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with flair by indulging in Josh Cellars Wines’ vibrant pink cocktails, tailor-made for a cozy date night at home. Elevate your evening with their specially crafted recipes like the Berry Romantic Spritz and Mi Amor 24, adding a touch of romance and simplicity to your festivities. Cheers to love and unforgettable moments shared over these delightful libations!
Berry Romantic Spritz
Ingredients:
- Josh Cellars Pinot Grigio – 1 part
- Lemon Juice – .5 part
- Cranberry Spiced Simple Syrup – .75 part (Make by combining simple syrup with cranberries and cinnamon)
- Top with Ginger Beer
- Sugar Covered Cranberries – For garnish
- Ice
Directions:
Combine all ingredients, except the ginger beer in a shaker. Shake and strain into a rocks glass or tall glass and top with ginger beer. Garnish with the sugar-covered cranberries.
Mi Amor 24
Ingredients:
- Tequila – 1 oz.
- Pomegranate Juice – ¾
- Grapefruit Soda – 2 oz.
- Josh Cellars Rose Prosecco – To top
Directions:
Combine tequila, pomegranate juice, and grapefruit soda in a glass. Top off with Josh Cellars Rose Prosecco.
Fior Scotch
Miami-based Retired Marine Major Eric Dominijanni helps us celebrate Black History Month with Fior Scotch, the only U.S. veteran-owned and Black-owned Scotch on the market. Born from Dominijanni’s military career and passion for Scotch, Fior stands out for its exceptional quality and unique creation process. Garnering acclaim since its inception in 2023, Fior has won double gold medals and high ratings in prestigious competitions. Proud of his Miami roots, Dominijanni sees Fior as a reflection of the city’s vibrancy. With each bottle purchased, a donation is given to veterans causes.
Peterson
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Fior Scotch
- 4.5 oz Cold Brew Coffee
To make, add the Fior to the coffee and pour over crushed ice in a mason jar. No muddling. No garnish. No straw. Marines don’t have time for that.
Rishtedar
Get ready for Valentine’s Day with Rishtedar’s tantalizing dining adventure! Prepare to be swept off your feet with our two exclusive Valentine’s Day pre-fixe menus: the Kamasutra and the Tantric. Available only on Wednesday, February 14th, these menus are crafted to ignite passion and delight your taste buds.
Kamasutra Menu – $150:
- Two cocktails – Shanti
- Jheenga Koliwada (Breaded Ecuadorian shrimp marinated in masala with a
- spicy and acidic touch)
- Lobster Masala (Southern Indian flavors with coconut, spices, acidic to
- palate)
- Mathan Rogan Josh (Famous Indian lamb dish marinated in onion sauce with
- spices and plenty of masala)
- Lasun Naan (Indian garlic bread made in the tandoor)
- Basmati (Rice)
- Aphrodisiac Dessert
- Small Gift
Tantric Menu – $130:
- A bottle of Sparkling Wine
- Goa Chilly Bengan (Eggplant in fresh onion, pepper and tomato sauce with
- spices)
- Bhindi Masala (Crunchy okras, stir-fried with onions and tomatoes,
- all with fragrant spices)
- Paneer Tikka Masala (House cheese marinated in exotic tikka sauce made with
- Indian spices)
- Lasun Naan (Indian garlic bread made in the tandoor)
- Basmati (Rice)
- Aphrodisiac Dessert
- Small Gift
The carefully crafted menus promise an unforgettable experience for food enthusiasts and those seeking a bit of spice in their intimate moments. The dishes feature ingredients and spices commonly used in Indian cuisine, believed to have beneficial effects on sexual health.
Coppercraft
Step into the world of Coppercraft Distillery, where craftsmanship meets innovation in every drop. Born in 2012 in Holland, Michigan, Coppercraft is a testament to the dedication of passionate artisans. From carefully selected ingredients to expert blending techniques, their spirits redefine the art of whiskey-making. Join the journey and discover the next wave of American small-batch spirits with Coppercraft.
THE ARTISAN’S OLD FASHIONED
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 oz Coppercraft Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 tsp simple syrup
- 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 1 Luxardo cherry, garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Muddle the orange peel, cherry, and simple syrup in a rocks glass.
- Add the Coppercraft Straight Bourbon Whiskey and bitters.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir well.
- Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
Golden Hour Glow Up Set By Chivas Regal
Chivas Regal unveils its latest luxury offering, the “Golden Hour Glow Up” Set, a limited-edition collaboration with fashion brand Falguni Shane Peacock. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, the set includes matching tailored tracksuits designed for couples, inspired by Chivas’ “United is the New Gold” campaign. Drawing on elegant craftsmanship and glam design, the tracksuits blend black and gold hues reminiscent of Chivas’ brand world. Completing the ensemble is the Chivas Gold Rush cocktail ingredients, offering an ideal at-home Golden Hour experience.
SKYY Vodka
Celebrate National Margarita Day on February 22nd with a twist – SKYY Vodka’s Agave Lime Margarita, featuring their newest expression, SKYY® Infusions Agave Lime. This innovative blend perfectly captures the classic margarita with a contemporary flair, blending vibrant lime flavor with the natural sweetness of real agave nectar. Elevate your margarita game this holiday with SKYY® Infusions Agave Lime!
SKYY Agave Lime Margarita
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 oz. SKYY Infusions Agave lime
- .25 lime
- .25 agave syrup
- Garnish: Lime Wheel
- Glass: Coupe
METHOD:
Build in a shaking tin. Shake with plenty of ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Salted rim optional.
Lost Irish
As National Irish Coffee Day (January 25) approached, we were thrilled to introduce Lost Irish, a modern whiskey brand shaking up the scene. Priced at just $39.99, Lost Irish embodied the adventurous spirit of the wandering Irish, sourcing casks from six continents to create a truly unique blend. With over 70 million Irish scattered across the globe, this whiskey captured the essence of their global influence. It’s not too late to celebrate!
The Dead Rabbit x Lost Irish Coffee Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Lost Irish
- .625 oz (2:1) Rich Demerara Sugar Syrup
- 3 ½ oz Dark Roast Coffee
- Thumb of Prepared Heavy Cream
Method:
- Pre-heat a 6-ounce Georgian-style coffee glass by filling with hot water. Once warm, empty the glass.
- Add whiskey, sugar syrup and coffee to glass, and stir to combine the ingredients.
- Float a thumb layer of freshly whipped cream over the top.
- Dust with freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
LALO Tequila
Get ready to celebrate National Margarita Day on February 22nd with LALO Tequila’s Spicy Cucumber Margarita! Crafted with only three ingredients – water, yeast, and agave – LALO offers a smooth and sophisticated tequila perfect for upgrading any cocktail. This twist on the classic margarita combines cool cucumber, zesty pineapple juice, and a hint of spice from fresh jalapenos, transporting you to a summertime state of mind with every sip.
Spicy Cucumber Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 oz LALO Tequila
- 2 oz Lime Juice
- 1.5 oz Pineapple Juice
- .5 Small Cucumber
- 2-4 Slices of Jalapeño
- 1-2 TBSPS of Agave Syrup
Directions:
Rim edge of glass with lime wedge and dip in Tajín or salt. Add ingredients to blender and strain when smooth. In a cocktail shaker, muddle slices of jalapeño, ice, cocktail mix, and shake until chilled. Strain into glass. Serve with extra lime wedges and garnish with jalapeño slices.