Home-Cooked Harmonies

The cozy Mama Lila’s Bistro (1915 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables) is a rare find in the patrician and often pricey Gables -- a place that invites patrons to leave pretense at the door and enjoy delicious and affordable food, along with the warmth of family. Owned by the sisters Valderrama -- Rosa, Elisa, and Lili – it offers a diverse menu featuring contemporary American cuisine with a hearty helping of grandmotherly Peruvian influence (inspired by Mama Lila herself, natch). With to-die-for chicken salad and an always-delectable soup du jour, it’s no wonder we named the joint Best Bistro in this year’s “Best of Miami” issue. And for the month of June, it’s diversifying an already eclectic menu to provide a little Tuesday nightlife. Trust us when we tell you that Tunes & Tapas is the best thing to hit this side of Ponce in a while.

Juan Turros, saxophonist for beloved local funksters Suenalo Sound System, kicks out the jams every Tuesday from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Musicians, aficionados, and tambourine-playing drum circle fans are all welcome to bring an instrument and come for a delicious musical fiesta. While the band (and audience) rocks out, feast on the sisters’ astounding appetizers, including jumbo prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, chicken quesadillas, and baked baby Portobello mushrooms stuffed with Serrano ham and cheese. The yummiest part: Admission is free.
Tuesdays, 8-11 p.m., 2007