Award-winning Chef Michelle Bernstein showcases the culinary and atmospheric flavors of the Florida Keys in an hour-long television special scheduled to premiere February 1 on public television stations nationwide.
“Taste the Florida Keys with Chef Michelle Bernstein” takes Bernstein on an exploration of the 125-mile subtropical island chain to discover the sea-centric ambiance, multicultural heritage and creative spirits that influence its distinctive cuisine.
Segments feature Florida Keys chefs and restaurateurs sharing the secrets behind their signature dishes, the fish and shellfish that “anchor” local menus, the best way to prepare lionfish, the true origins of Key lime pie, food-focused events ranging from Lobsterfest to the Key Lime Festival, the Keys’ Cuban heritage and other elements that season the region’s culinary culture.
Among experiences, Bernstein gets stone crab eating tips from Keys Fisheries’ Gary Graves and participates in Marathon’s annual Stone Crab Eating Contest, catches fish during a “hook and cook”-experience with Upper Keys restaurants’ owner Bobby Stoky, discovers the hives and honey of Keez Beez, savors Paul Menta’s “chef-distilled” rum and samples fresh-off-the-tree fruit on Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour of Key West.
“Taste the Florida Keys” is produced by South Florida PBS and distributed nationally by American Public Television. Viewers should check local listings to determine when the program will broadcast in their area
