The Whet Palette Productions: Miami Food Blog & Podcast
I’m a Cuban-American writer and podcaster who’s been telling Spanglish food, life, and travel stories since 2013.
What started as a passion project has become a trusted, recognizable brand in South Florida’s culinary scene. By keeping it authentic and always showing up with curiosity (and probably a wine or cafecito on hand), I’ve built real relationships with chefs, restaurateurs, and a dedicated following of fellow flavor-hunters.
My coverage ranges from white-tablecloth fine dining to the no- frills neighborhood spots. I was raised on pan con mantequilla, but my appetite spans the globe.
Beyond the plate, I bring a background in interior design and dance, giving me a flair for aesthetics, rhythm, and storytelling that resonates with our vibrant audience. Think of me as your go-to guide for all things delicious, beautiful, and culture-soaked.
Listen in as I tap into a hyperlocal community that’s vibrant, loyal, and always ready for the next bite (or adventure). Just don’t ask me to choose between a Michelin tasting menu and medianoche. I’ll take both, thanks.
Brenda
The Whet Palette Productions: Miami Food Blog & Podcast
S4 E58 Florida Chef Spotlight: Ryan Ratino of MAASS, Bresca, Jônt and Ômo by Jônt
Chef Ryan Ratino attended Orlando’s Le Cordon Bleu in 2009. He launched his culinary career as a Junior Sous Chef at Shula’s Steak House (Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resort) and spent three years working under Todd English at Bluezoo.
Life has come full circle. Although he owns D.C.'s One Michelin-starred Bresca and Two Michelin-starred JÔNT, Ratino is finally back in Florida. MAASS (Fort Lauderdale) and Ômo by Jônt (Orlando) have joined the Hive Hospitality portfolio—two of the most exciting and successful openings within the Florida fine dining scene.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Culinary school
- Opening a restaurant
- Creating the hospitality group
- Receiving Michelin Star recognition
- Defining the Bresca, MAASS, JÔNT, and ÔMO concepts
- Hope for a MICHELIN Guide Florida expansion to Fort Lauderdale
- Finding daily motivation
- South Florida favorite eats
- Upcoming projects
Listen here:
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Want to advertise your business or event in an episode or two?
Message me at thewhetpalette@gmail.com.
Thank you for listening. As always, from my “palette” to yours,
Cheers!
Brenda
Taste the world’s best wines and meet visionary winemakers at Vinous Icons: Miami. The experts at the wine site Vinous have selected over 100 internationally renowned wine estates to join them in Miami over two days, November 14 and 15. They’ll share exceptional wines and the stories behind them, all from within the beautiful Bloom ballroom at Jungle Island, overlooking the Miami skyline.
Use code WHET30PALETTE to receive 30% off ticket prices
