miadish

There are two big Coral Gables birthdays this week. On Thursday, Cacao celebrates five years. Chef Edgar Leal’s contemporary Latin American creations are beloved by diners and critics. Cacao’s homemade desserts, crafted with Venezuelan “El Rey” chocolate, are swoon-worthy. Cacao will serve hors d’oeuvres by Chef Leal. You can also enjoy caipirinhas and mojitos by Boca Loca and wine and champagne by Republic Liquors at this free celebration. University of Miami will sponsor a raffle to benefit survivors of the Peru earthquake.

Where: Cacao, 141 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables
When: Thursday, October 18, 2007, 7 pm to 10 pm

While Books & Books is not a culinary institution per se, it is responsible for bringing many chefs and food writers to South Florida. Over the past year, they presented Anthony Bourdain, Julie Powell (blogger and author of Julie and Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously) and Gael Greene (“Insatiable Critic”). Soon they will host Alice Waters. Books & Books is closing part of Aragon Avenue for their 25th anniversary fête. Enjoy complimentary champagne and hors d’oeuvres, dance to live music, and leave with your favorite cookbook tucked under your arm! Every book in the store will be 25 percent off this weekend.

Where: Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables
When: Saturday, October 20, 2007, 7 pm to midnight