As we face the summer doldrums, there really aren’t enough summer cultural events to fill a column, so for the next few issues, we’re going to combine my Culture Corner with Hot Dish. Now, in answer to our teaser headline; yes and no.
Mindy Kaling’s play “Matt & Ben” runs for four performances only July 25-Aug. 1 at Empire Stage.
The play depicts the titular Hollywood golden boys, before J-Lo, before Gwyneth, before Jason Bourne, before Oscar… before anyone actually gave a damn. When the screenplay for “Good Will Hunting” is picked up by a major studio, the boys realize they’re being tested by a “Higher Power." The play was the winner of the 2002 New York International Fringe Festival, named Best Overall Production. It will be directed by Mila Sumrall and Dominique Palmer, who will also portray Ben and Matt.
The Kravis Center is recruiting volunteer ushers for its new season. The new volunteer orientation for the 2026–27 season will be held at the Kravis Center’s Persson Hall on Aug. 3 at 6 p.m., Aug. 8 at noon, and Sept. 3 at 6 p.m. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer should complete the online application at kravis.org/volunteer.
BITES
Congratulations to Thirsty’s Bistro, on the Drive, for its recent expansion. The expansion has allowed Thirsty’s to provide more indoor & patio seating, easier restroom access, a self-service kiosk, a karaoke stage (not certain those last two are a plus) and a little more elbow room. It’s a great place for a refreshing snack or drink.
Uchi Miami, in Wynwood is known for its nontraditional take on elevated Japanese cuisine, has kicked off its 2026 Summer Dinner Series, an exclusive dining experience featuring intimate, ticketed dinner collaborations with talented local chefs. The series continues on July 23, with Chef Michael Eure of Over/Under. On Thursday, August 20, Chef Alejandra Espinoza of Cotoa will match her progressive Ecuadorian cuisine with Uchi’s signature style. The series concludes on Thursday, September 24, with a preview collaboration featuring Uchi’s sister concept Uchibā. Reservations are required and are available via SevenRooms.com. Tickets are $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
Mai-Kai celebrates Tahiti with a month-long lineup of immersive experiences that bring Polynesian traditions to life. Free Tahitian dance classes will be offered every Wednesday and Friday at the Bora Bora Bar and shell jewelry crafting on Saturdays. Sunday activities include coconut husking, lei making, and sarong tying. On Sunday, July 26, guests can enjoy a Polynesian-inspired vendor market, along with the opportunity to perform in a special pre-show showcase for those who have attended every Tahitian dance class throughout the month. For more information, go to MaiKai.com.
The 14th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival returns Oct. 21-24, bringing four days of unforgettable culinary experiences to Miami Beach. Tickets are now on sale for the pre-Seafood Slam events, which always sell out quickly. This year’s events include an intimate evening on Wednesday, Oct. 21, that will bring together six of the region's most influential culinary leaders for a one-night-only collaborative dinner. On Oct. 22, a second evening of collaborative dinners will be held at several of the area’s most celebrated restaurants. A fan-favorite returns on Friday, Oct. 23, with a Chef Showdown, featuring 20 chefs competing across 10 head-to-head seafood battles in the following categories: Taco, Crab, Sushi, Surf N' Turf, Salmon, Shrimp, Ceviche, Seafood Pasta, Tuna, and the always unpredictable Mystery Battle. Guests will sample dishes at each restaurant's Battle Pavilion and cast their votes for the best of each duo. Tickets are $175 for the all-inclusive experience. Go to SobeSeafoodFest.com.
