The reason I've called these restaurants "classics" is so I don't do them a disservice. My previous post talked about "upscale" restaurants, but the ones I feature below aren't any less enjoyable because they're not quite as expensive!
Angelo's Corner 200 Garfield Street, Hollywood Beach 33019
Although Angelo's Corner, situated right on Hollywood Beach, serves a variety of food (burgers, sandwiches and so on), you must go for pizza - it will be the best one you have ever tasted! There's different types, but I always usually go for the peperoni. A 16-inch one will only set you back $12. You can also order one for take-away; they'll make and cook it it in front of you. On the day we went, there had been storms pretty much the entire day which had kept all beachgoers away. We received a cheer on walking into the restaurant; I'd like to think that that's because they were pleased to see us, but it may just be because they were pleased to see any customers on that very rainy day. So I can't guarantee that you'll be cheered as you walk in, but I can guarantee that you'll get fantastic pizza.
Le Tub 1100 N Ocean Drive, Hollywood Beach 33019
If you go to only one of my recommendations on these pages, make it this one. Le Tub's burgers have been declared as the best in America by GQ Magazine, and even goddess Oprah herself. Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway with beautiful views, this is a really quirky place built from "flotsam, jetsam and ocean borne treasures all gathered daily over 4 years of day break jogging on Hollywood Beach". And it's true, as the tables, benches and walls all seem to be made from driftwood. Although there's a variety of things on the menu, you have to go for the sirloinburger, 13 ounces of ground top sirloin. It'll take a while to cook (it's huge!) but it's worth it - and the longer you have to build up your appetite, the better. (As I've said, it's huge!) I have the proud honour of going to Le Tub on three different occasions with three different people. Each time, they were unable to finish their giant burger. I, on the other hand, managed mine in double-quick time. Maybe I'm just a glutton.
The Floridian 1410 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale 33301
If you're after a traditional American diner, The Floridian is definitely the place to come. Open 24 hours, it serves comfort food in a cosy setting. I went in mid-afternoon to take shelter from the incessant rain that day - and boy, did I need comfort food! Go for one of the breakfast options; there's such a wide variety that there will definitely be something that takes your fancy.
Greenstreet Cafe 3110 Commodore Plaza Coconut Grove 33133
If you pay a trip down to Coconut Grove, a quaint little area with a laid-back vibe, try this place. The Greenstreet Cafe has a great corner location, and there's plenty of outdoor seating - perfect for you to relax and take in the surroundings. Try one of the salads or sandwiches for lunch.
Zona Fresca 1635 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale 33305
At it's basic level, Zona Fresca is a Mexican fast food place serving burritos, tacos, nachos and the like. Except it's so much more than that. Made with all natural ingredients, the dishes have none of bland, additive-loaded food that you get at fast food chains. Even the salsa is delicious, and you can tell that the guacamole is "made from scratch using whole ripe avocados". Best of all are the prices - for a very generously sized bean and cheese burrito (which comes with a side of nachos) and a beer, I paid just over $6.
Oriente 1300 Ocean Drive, Miami 33139
Oriente is the restaurant at the Cardozo Hotel, which is owned by Gloria Estefan and her huband. Located right on Ocean Drive (i.e. the road right next to the beach) it's a perfect location to people watch. And if you're on Ocean Drive, you'll have plenty of that to do! Oriente blends a mix of Cuban, American and European cuisines. Try one of the Cuban wraps or sandwiches - they're very tasty.
Jerry's Famous Deli 1450 Collins Avenue, Miami 33139
This place is amazing - you have to see it to be believe. Located in a prime position on Collins Avenue (in the heart of South Beach), Jerry's Famous Deli is a very large diner-style restaurant that's open 24 hours. So far, not so stunning, you think? Well, the clincher is that they serve over 600 different dishes. Can't decide between your friends over what kind of food to eat? Come here - you can have a pizza, whilst your friends tuck in to burgers, salads, breakfasts, desserts and the rest. If you're in South Beach on a night out, you should definitely come here for some post-clubbing nibbles.
Jamba Juice various locations
Jamba Juice is a country-wide chain of juice bars. What's the big deal, you ask, there's plenty of juice bars everywhere? Well, here's the big deal. These blended juices are delicious and refreshing, mixed as they are with ice and sherbert. If you get a chance, try one - you'll see the difference.
Photos all June 2008 - 1. Le Tub restaurant 2. Cardozo Hotel/Oriente Restaurant 3. Jamba Juice in Fort Lauderdale
No comments:
Post a Comment