By 2023, it is estimated that breast cancer, the most prevalent type among women after skin cancers, has impacted over four million individuals in the U.S. (according to breastcancer.org). As October unfolds, the designated month for raising awareness and supporting those battling the disease, South Florida is buzzing with initiatives to participate in. Remember to don the pink ribbon (breast cancer’s universal symbol since the 1980s) to show support.
Where To Eat:
Mandarin Oriental: MO Bar + Lounge and La Mar by Gastón Acurio
Located inside Miami’s luxurious Mandarin Oriental, these establishments are setting the stage for recognizing breast cancer month. MO Bar + Lounge, known for its upscale cocktails and bites is offering a Pink Paloma. It’s made with Patron Silver tequila, lime, grapefruit juice and house-made watermelon syrup, garnished with frozen watermelon and adorned with pink glitter.
Photo courtesy of MO Bar + Lounge
For those with a sweet tooth, order MO Bar + Lounge’s Elderflower Strawberry Cake, only available this month. It consists of layers of vanilla cream and strawberry compote served in elderflower syrup.
Photo courtesy of MO Bar + Lounge
For a memorable dining experience, head to La Mar by Gastón Acurio. Enjoy Peruvian classics like ceviche, tiraditos, lomo saltado and Executive Chef Diego Oka’s Pink Causa for a Cause: decadent layers of crabmeat, sunchokes, Peruvian trout, shrimp cocktail, avocado, smoked trout roe and creamy Huancaina sauce, nestled atop a beet-infused potato puree shaped as a ribbon. There’s an expansive patio boasting breathtaking waterfront views for those wishing to enjoy an al fresco meal.
Photo courtesy of La Mar by Gastón Acurio
At Mandarin Oriental, supporting breast cancer goes beyond the realm of food. In addition to proceeds from its mouthwatering offerings going toward the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, the hotel is partaking in other initiatives to raise awareness and funds to fight the disease. Throughout October, the property’s façade will glow in radiant pink hues.
Where: 500 Brickell Key Dr., Miami
For more information, visit mandarinoriental.com.
Eden Roc Miami Beach: Café Inez and Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps
Delighting patrons for 65 years, the iconic Eden Roc Miami Beach is home to stellar restaurants, including Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps and Nobu, a highly acclaimed spot for sushi lovers in Miami. You’ll also find Café Inez, a charming coffee shop that serves salads, sandwiches, ice creams and desserts, like The Pink Ribbon. This sweet treat, available during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is made with Strawberry Mouse, Pink Guava Gelee and Toasted Macadamia Blondies.
Photo courtesy of Café Inez
Looking for something stronger? Head to Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps and order the Pink Lady Cocktail: Casamigos Blanco tequila, cranberry juice, agave, topped with prosecco. A portion of proceeds from both Eden Roc’s destinations will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Photo courtesy of Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps
Where: 4525 Collins Ave., Miami Beach
For more information, visit edenrochotelmiami.com.
4 Rivers Smokehouse
Named “Top Ten Best Miami BBQ Spots” by Miami New Times in 2023, this popular eatery specializing in slow-smoked barbecue, homemade sides and fresh bakery goods has focused on contributing back to the community since its inception.
Through Oct. 28, 4 Rivers Smokehouse will offer Pink Nachos made with pink tortilla fried chips, topped with choice of meat pico de gallo, guasacaca (avocado salsa), nacho cheese sauce, cilantro lime crème fresh, pickled jalapeños and cilantro. Partial proceeds benefit Advent Health for Women, a women’s healthcare that raises funds for breast cancer research.
What’s more, guests who join the restaurant’s Porktoberfest (a monthly offering of new pork items such as Pull Pork & Ribs and Pulled Pork & Wings) will have the opportunity to round up their in-store purchase to the nearest dollar to support the cause.
Photo courtesy of 4 Rivers Smokehouse
Where: 2660 N. University Dr., Coral Springs
For more information, visit 4rsmokehouse.com.
The Salty
Craving something sweet? This beloved doughnut shop offers favorites like The Whipped Strawberry Donut, available throughout the month in at its multiple South Florida locations. It is made with strawberry-infused 24-hour brioche, filled with strawberry mousse, tossed in strawberry sugar and topped with a fondant ribbon.
A portion of proceeds from each doughnut sold will go toward The Breasties, a nonprofit that supports survivors, previvors, thrivers and caregivers impacted by breast and gynecologic cancer. As a heartwarming bonus, The Salty will be spreading extra joy by delivering doughnuts to local breast cancer centers throughout the month.
Photo Courtesy of The Salty
Where: 460 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach
For more information, visit saltydonut.com.
Pura Vida
A cherished destination for those who love indulging in excellent food and tasty coffee, Pura Vida is honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month by partnering with Pinkball, an organization founded by baseball moms to raise funds for uninsured women battling the disease. Appealing to loyal patrons wanting to support the cause, Pura Vida is offering the fan-favorite Raspberry Pistachio Croissant. It’s dipped in ruby chocolate, filled with mixed berry jam and pistachio praline ganache and topped with freeze-dried raspberries and pistachios.
Photo courtesy of Pura Vida Miami
Where: 8170 Glades Road St., Boca Raton
For more information, visit puravidamiami.com.
On The Screen:
“Mom & Dad’s Nipple Factory” Screening During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Launching a national theatrical tour beginning this month, “Mom & Dad’s Nipple Factory” is a feature documentary telling the story of Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Justin Johnson’s parent’s resilience in the face of breast cancer diagnosis and the prosthetic nipple business they launched, hidden from their church, small-town community and their five children.
“Years in the making, ‘Mom & Dad’s Nipple Factory’ sees once-distanced son, Justinsuperstar, capture his parent’s four-decade-long love story in a touching and humorous documentary that shows the power of love, perseverance, and innovation; a must-see for anyone whose life has been touched by breast cancer,” says a press release.
“Mom & Dad’s Nipple Factory” will screen on Oct. 23 at Savor Cinema, Fort Lauderdale.
Where: 503 S.E. 6th St., Fort Lauderdale
For more information, visit nipplefactoryfilm.com.
Events:
Lauderdale Lakes Breast Cancer Awareness & Community Health Fair
Women across South Florida who are 40 years or older and haven’t had a mammogram in the past year are welcome to join the Breast Cancer Health Fair in Lauderdale Lakes. Presented by Vice Mayor Karlene Maxwell-Williams, “this free event is open to the entire community and will feature a variety of health screenings, educational resources, and activities for all ages,” says The City of Lauderdale Lakes’ website.
The fair will also host local vendors, food and health professionals providing information on health and care. Mammograms are available to all women, regardless of whether they’re insured, with no out-of-pocket expenses, according to eventbrite.com.
Where: Lauderdale Lakes Multipurpose Auditorium, 4340 N.W. 36th St., Lauderdale Lakes
For more information, visit lauderdalelakes.org.
Pedal In Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Bike Ride
Casual riders, pros and everyone in between are welcome to pedal with purpose and meet fellow breast cancer supporters on Nov. 5 at 8 a.m.
“Let’s honor the breast cancer fighters, survivors, and the ones we lost as we Pedal in Pink! You are strongly encouraged to wear pink, decorate your bikes, and get ready to have a good time. Donations are welcome,” states the event’s information at eventbrite.com. Bikes are available for rent for a fee.
Where: Smitty’s Wings Sistrunk, 1134 N.W. 6th St., Fort Lauderdale
For more information, call 954-309-4260.