2012 Snail of Approval Awards Party by Slow Food Miami at Miami Beach Botanical Gardens on Friday, March 23, 2012.

The 2012 award recipients on hand that provide delicious bites were Chef Simon Stojanovic from Altamare, Chef E. Michael Reidt from Area 31, Chef Giancarla Bodoni from Escopazzo, Chef Julie Frans from Essensia at The Palms Hotel & Spa, Chef Paula DaSilva from 1500 Degrees, Chef Monica Rios from Green Table, Chef Philippe Reynaud from Ocean Reef Club, Chef Kris Wessel from Red Light Little River, Chef Alex Pinero from Sustain Restaurant + Bar, Chef Mark Zeitouni from Lido Restaurant and Bayside Grill at The Standard, Chef David Bracha from The River Seafood & Oyster Bar, Chef Andrea Curto-Randazzo and Chef Frank Randazzo with Creative Taste Catering, Gaby’s Sorbet, Real Sorbet and Grey Goose Vodka provided the wonderful refreshing  cocktails.

“Slow Food Miami embraces local growers and artisan food makers who use sustainable methods, pay fair wages and respect our environment.  All proceeds from Slow Food Miami events are used to implement local school and community gardens. Slow Food Miami is an all-volunteer organization. Our local members are passionate about good food, supporting local growers and celebrating Miami’s diversity.  We consider ourselves a partner on how our food reaches the table because we know our farmer. Slow Food Miami is the local chapter of Slow Food USA and the International Slow Food Association.”