Ask
John! Sun Sentinel
restaurant writer John Tanasychuk answers YOUR questions about
restaurants, eating out and more. To submit your question,
e-mail here.
Please include your name, city and state with
each question.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Hi readers: On Monday, I answered a question from a reader looking for restaurants in western Plantation. I had a few suggestions, but another reader named Liz had even more. Here’s her e-mail:
Hi John: There are actually a few great restaurants in Plantation. There’s Thai Thai on Sunrise and Pine Island which has some of the best Thai food and sushi around, there’s Padrino’s or Las Vegas for Cuban, there’s La Bamba for Mexican and Spanish (their carne asada and fajitas rock-I can never decide which to get). Also, there is Landlubbers Raw Bar and Grill. There’s Caspian Persian restaurant. I know we have many more faves, having lived in Plantation for 7 years, but just wanted to send the ones that came to mind since I notice you didn’t mention any in answer to the question about Plantation non-chain restaurants.
Monday, July 6, 2009
John: Please help me out. I live in extreme western Plantation and am disenchanted with the lack of decent food choices around here. You have all your chains and pizza places, but if you could, what are some decent non-chain local restaurants in a five mile radius? Thanks, William, Plantation
Hey William:
Admittedly, Plantation is a tough one for restaurants. But I hope you read the Sun Sentinel on Fridays when our Broward County reviewer Judith Stocks often highlights great independently owned eateries out west.
Most recently, she visited Mustard Seed Bistro (8616 Griffin Road, Cooper City, 954-252-0002) where raved about everything from the Moroccan barbecued lamb chops to the seared red nose snapper. She awarded the restaurant 4 stars.
Back in January, Stocks raved about Bistro 555 (15651 Sheridan St., Muvico Shoppes, Davie, 954-358-0808). From tuna tartar to penne all vodka and a New York strip steak, it earned 3 1/2 stars.
I realize these suggestions might break the five mile radius, but both are worth the drive. Let me know what you think.
Q: Can you suggest a restaurant in South Florida–preferably north of Miami and south of Boca–for a 95th birthday party for about 25-35 people? It must be handicap accessible and elegant for a classy 95-year-old and her friends. Lunch, brunch or dinner are OK. Thanks, Sandy.
Dear Sandy: Now that’s a big birthday and one you’ll want to celebrate in style.
My first thought is a hotel restaurant because hotels are so good at serving large groups. I like 3030 Ocean at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa (3030 Holiday Dr., 954-765-3030, 3030ocean.com) in Fort Lauderdale. Chef James Dean Max has a way with seafood, which may please some of the older guests. His menu isn’t so experimental that it won’t appeal to the less adventurous.
Brooks Restaurant (500 S. Federal Highway, 954-427-9302, brooks-restaurant.com) in Deerfield Beach is also a solid choice. They’ve been helping South Floridians celebrate special occasions for 25 years. They have private rooms and can set up any menu you want. The Web site will give you a very good idea of just how elegant this restaurant is.
Hey John: I have read your suggestions and can say I concur with most of your choices. I am looking for a good tapas restaurant in South Palm/North Broward area. Is there one you could suggest for me to go try? I am looking for a more authentic Spanish or Portuguese tapas bar. Thanks! E., Boca Raton
I don’t know of any restaurants in South Palm Beach County serving authentic Spanish tapas. I hope readers will tell me otherwise.
Meantime, I would suggest Cafe Seville, 2768 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-656-1148. Cafe Seville has been serving tapas as well as a full menu of Spanish cuisine for more than 20 years. With fewer than 50 seats, it attracts diner from north and south. Check out their menu on-line.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Dear John: I am a SoFla native, more specifically a Fort Lauderdale native, and I am getting married next spring. My fiance and I were hoping to do something really unique and have our wedding at a real unique “Old Florida” style restaurant. Something on the water with lots of seafood on the menu and an atmosphere like the old Islamorada Fish Company in the Keys. Can you make a suggestion? Melissa, Sunrise.
Congratulations Melissa!
First of all, did you know that Islamorada Fish Company has a location in Dania Beach? It’s right next to the International Game Fishing Association and Outdoor World at 220 Gulf Stream Way, 954-927-7737.
The food is quite good and it’s full of the old Florida charm I think you’re looking for, even if the only water around looks over the I-95. They claim to use the same fresh fish used in the original restaurant. By the way, many people also get married at the IGFA.
What about Cap’s Place Island restaurant? It’s on an island just off of Lighthouse Point. You get there on the restaurant’s boat. The place is 80 years old and full of Florida charm. I’m not sure how many people are coming to your wedding, but Cap’s can probably accommodate a fairly large party.
Cap’s dock is at 2765 N.E. 28th Court, Lighthouse Point. Call 954-941-0418.
Good luck!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Q: Years ago I discovered a small Indonesian restaurant in Sunrise called Garudas. I introduced a few friends to the food and they all loved it too–some driving from as far as West Palm to go there for Saturday lunch. Sadly, it closed, but I still crave that unique food (lumpia, nasi goreng and mee goreng in particular). Thai is nice, but it just isn’t the same. Do you know of any other Indonesian restaurants in Florida. I have friends in Tampa, Orlando and north Florida, so I’d be interested in knowing about a good Indonesian restaurant even if it was out of this area. Thanks, Brian, Coral Springs.
Sorry to hear about Garudas. Many years ago, I spent a month in Indoesia, exploring Java and Bali. I remember al of the dishes that you love. To be honest, I haven’t found great Indonesian anywhere in this part of the world, but I hold out hope.
Here are two spots in Miami-Dade. I haven’t been to either, so I hope you won’t mind being my scout.
Indomania, 2601 Collins Ave., 305-535-6332. It’s Dutch-Indonesian and has been open for two years.
Bali Cafe, 109 NE Second Ave., Miami, 305-358-5751. I’m told this spot is hard to find and parking is a problem, as it’s downtown Miami. But I also hear it’s very good.
Will you let me know how it goes?
Friday, May 15, 2009
Q: Where can real Southern fried chicken be found in southwest Broward ? I have been searching for years. Thought you might include Broward in your previous reply to Boynton writer. Janet, Davie
Have you ever been to The Georgia Pig? It’s at 1285 S. State Road 7 (954-587-4420), just south of Davie Boulevard. I’m a big fan of their chopped pork sandwiches, but ever Friday they offer fried chicken as special.
The restaurant opens at 6 a.m. for breakfast and they start frying chicken around 11 a.m. The kitchen closes at 8:45 p.m.
It’s a little hard to find because there’s not signage. But I was there this week with a colleague who grew up in North Carolina. She said it was like being in a small town back home.
Enjoy!
Hi John: I am looking for a nice affordable restaurant where my family and I can go to celebrate my son’s graduation from High School preferably in the Miami area. I don’t want to go to any of the chain restaurants like Red Lobster, Chili’s, etc. I live in South Miami, but am willing to travel. Thank you, Veronique, South Miami
Dear Veronique: I applaud you wanting to celebrate at an independently owned restaurant. If you’re looking for affordable restaurants, think ethnic. You probably drive by many Italian or Greek restaurants, but have never bothered to stop in.
That said, the first place to come to mind is Bugatti, The Art of Pasta (2504 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-441-2545).
Bugatti has been serving up some of the best pasta in town since the mid 1980s. It’s not a big restaurant and the dining room is simply decorated. But the quality of food and service is high. So high that your soon-to-graduate son will remember where he celebrated.
I know you said not chains, but have you considered Carrabba’s Italian Grill? There’s a location in South Miami. Many people love the place.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Q: I have been coming to the same place in Pompano Beach off and on for 35 years and, for the most part, always eat at the same places. Where can I find information about restaurants that are on the water? Being from central Ohio, I like to be by the water as much as possible when I’m in Florida. My next trip is May 23 – 30. A bit of a drive is okay. Thanks for any information you can provide. Kathy, name: Kathy , Sidney, Ohio
A: The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau has a great searchable restaurant feature on its Web site. Along with being able to search by cuisine and location, you can look at all of the restaurants with a water view. I’ve used it myself. Enjoy your visit to Pompano.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Q: I love cod fish, fried of course. Do you know of the best place to find that in the Hollywood area? Sharon, Hollywood
A: Try Kings Head English Pub & Bar, 500 E. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach, 954-922-5722.
Our reviewer Judith Stocks awarded the place three out of four stars just last month. She recommended the fish and chips made with center-cut cod loin for $14.95.
They’re dipped in ale-infused batter before frying.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Q: Where can I find real Southern fried chicken in this area? Fred, Boynton Beach
A: Head directly to Fran’s Chicken Haven in Boca Raton. Fran’s has been frying chicken since 1964.
Josh Brownlee, Fran’s third owner, took over operations last August after years as a manager. Any day of the week, you’ll find Brownlee in front of fryer. After the chicken is scalded to remove any yellow fat from the skin, it’s dipped in a secret recipe batter and then fried in vegetable oil. While chicken is king at Fran’s, the restaurant also serves notable collard greens, rice and black-eyed peas and baked beans.
Fran’s is primarily a take-out spot, but there are a few tables if you want to eat in. It’s at 1925 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, 561-395-0781.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Q: Looking for a nice restaurant nearby that serves fried oysters. Thank you. Jim, Briny Breezes.
A: Fried oysters and “nice restaurant” are often mutually exclusive.
That said, try the Grumpy Grouper Grill, 224 N 3rd St, Lantana, 561-547-5171. More hole-in-wall than restaurant, food is served on plastic plates that sit on paper place mats.
At this authentic bit of Florida, the fried 8-oyster appetizer is $8.95. They also do a fried oyster Caesar salad for $9.99.
On Tuesday and Friday nights, they do a $9.99 fish fry. The fried grouper comes with french fries and cole slaw.
Q: I have been reading your blog Sup and starting to read reviews at the Sun Sentinel.
I write the food news column for the Rochester City Newspaper (Rochester N.Y.) so food is important! It is especially important because we are considering moving to either the Tampa Bay area, or Fort Lauderdale in about a year.
The variety and quality of restaurants are definitely part of the consideration.
How would you describe Fort Lauderdale food-wise? Does it suffer from being so close to Miami, or has that been a boon to the types of cuisines available?
We are planning another trip to Florida in a few months to visit both spots again, but wanted to get a professional food opinion. Thanks! Tricia
A: I love that food and restaurants are part of your thinking about where to move. I say move to Fort Lauderdale.
I believe that South Florida -and by that I mean Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties-offers all of the variety and quality you’ll ever need. Living in Fort Lauderdale puts you in the center of things.
Our offerings will be different from Rochester, but we’ve got plenty. We don’t have great Chinese restaurants, but we’ve got great Latin food. It’s quite an eye opener to discover the riches of Cuba, Argentina and Puerto Rico. I believe our restaurants are more expensive than other parts of the country, but not if you’re looking for great Jamaican jerk chicken or Israeli falafel.
The greater number of tourists in Miami-Dade means that many chefs come from outside of Florida to open their doors. You’ll find restaurants owned by everyone from Emerile Lagasse and Govind Armstrong to Alfred Portale and Laurent Tourondel.
The situation is different in Palm Beach County. Because so much of the country’s wealth is centered there during the winter season, the restaurants reflect a sophistication that you don’t see everywhere.
That said, Fort Lauderdale and Broward County have everything that Miami-Dade and Palm Beach county has, but in smaller numbers.
Come to Fort Lauderdale.
Q: I’m really glad to see that someone is still interested in eating good soul food. I was trained by my mother and grandmother to prepare the best soul food around and I hope that one day you will be able to taste and rate my own place of business. Anthony, Lantana
A: Thanks Anthony. Let me know when you open.
Q: I will be visiting Fort Lauderdale over Easter and am looking for a nice restaurant for brunch or dinner on Easter for my friend and I. Can you recommend something? Thanks, Terry, Boston.
A: I’m going to recommend three restaurants that have one wonderful Florida thing in common: a water view.
Did you know that Boston’s own Todd English has opened a Northern Italian restaurant called da Campo Osteria? (3333 NE 32nd Ave., 954-564-4400) It’s in the il Lugano Suite Hotel and has a great view of the Intracoastal.
If you’re don’t mind spending some real money, check out Cero (1 N. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Blvd., 954-302-6460), a French/seafood hybrid in Fort Lauderdale’s Ritz-Carlton. They’ve got a great outdoor terrace. The dining room is more formal, yet still modern.
For brunch, I suggest driving a few miles north to Blue Moon Fish Co. (4405 W. Tradewinds Ave., 954-267-9888) in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It’s uniquely Florida, sitting as it does on the Intracoastal. The price is $29.95 and includes one Bloody Mary, mimosa or glass of champagne.
Q: Hi John: My wife and I are looking for an authentic soul food restaurant in Broward. We live in Tamarac and will drive anywhere is Broward for a taste of real soul food with a nice atmosphere. Thank you, David.
A: You’d think we’d have more soul food restaurants to choose from, but we don’t.
Betty’s Soul Food & Barbecue (601 NW 22nd Rd., Fort Lauderdale, 954- 583-9121) serves some great food, but it doesn’t offer much in the way of atmosphere.
I could steer you to some great rib joints, but I say drive to Miami-Dade and go to The Mahogany Grille (2190 NW 183rd St., Miami Gardens, 305-626-8100). It’s a very nice sit-down restaurant with live music and full bar.
The menu includes soul food favorites like waffles and Southern fried chicken, ribs and ox tail stew. But there’s also a very good steak, barbecue salmon fillet and crispy lobster tails.
It’s always packed on Sundays after church.
It’s not exactly convenient to Tamarac, but you can drive south on University Drive all to the way to 183rd Street, which is also known as Miami Gardens Drive.
Enjoy!
Q: Somebody asked you where to find Puerto Rican restaurants. I’ve visited the two you mentioned. Both disappointed me. But we found this small one in Oakland Park called Las Marias. (3786 NE 12th Ave., 954-564-1211)
This one is real Puerto Rican food.
They have specials every day. After years looking for a good Puerto Rican food, I can tell you this is the one in South Florida. I have been telling all my friends about it and we all agree. Maggy, Fort Lauderdale
A: Thanks Maggy. I will give it a try.
Q: I work downtown Fort Lauderdale and I don’t want to lunch at a fast food or chain restaurant. I also don’t want to break the bank. Do you have any suggestions for healthy, not-too expensive lunch restaurants? Harriet, Fort Lauderdale.
A: Those of us who work downtown Fort Lauderdale know all about those chains and the fast food. Here are a couple of suggestions.
Charcuterie Too is on the second floor of the Broward County Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Ave., 954-463-9578. Each day, there are as many as a half dozen specials including quiche and salad. I’m a big fan of the restaurant’s Indian dishes as well as the Greek salad that you can order with grilled chicken. Every entree comes with bread and either tossed salad or fruit. You can easily eat here for under $10.
Food is served cafeteria-style, but all of it is prepared fresh daily. Once you’ve gone through the line with your tray, there’s comfortable seating inside and out. Perhaps because it’s set within the library, there’s also a kind of civility to eating here.
Charcuterie Too also has a dedicated menu line where you can hear the recorded specials of the day. Call 954-463-1443.
The other spot I like is Cafe Verdi, 100 E. Broward Blvd., 954-522-1230. They have sandwiches, pizzas, salads and pasta. Check the daily specials on the menu board. Many dishes come with house salad that’s tossed with great balsamic vinaigrette. They do a roasted white meat quarter chicken special for $7.98. Served with a choice of two sides, it’s quite a bargain.
What I like about both of these places is that they get to know you once you’ve gone a few times.
Wednesday, February 25
Q: Where can I find Puerto Rican food in Fort Lauderdale? Virginia, Coral Springs.
A: I’m not aware of any Puerto Rican restaurants in the city of Fort Lauderdale. But here are two in Broward County.
Borinqueya Restaurant is at 6875 Stirling Rd. in Davie (954-587-2482). A colleague with roots in Puerto Rico tells me it’s a great taste of home.
You might also check out La Cocina Puertorriquena, 6742 Pembroke Rd. Pembroke Pines (954-962-0777).
Along with Puerto Rican favorites like mofongo and asopao, La Cocina has Dominican dishes on its menu.
Wednesday, February 18
Q: A friend who now lives in rural Virginia is coming to visit next month. She’s originally from Denmark and is lonesome for a taste of home. She’s hoping I can find a Danish or Swedish restaurant somewhere in South Florida. Do you know of anything? Richard, Boca Raton
A: Take your friend to Cafe Copenhagen in Jupiter. (2123 S. U.S. 1, between Indiantown and Donald Ross in the Driftwood Plaza, 561-748-0495). Chef/owner Christian Cotton did his culinary apprenticeship at the renowned Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen.
His appetizer menu includes such Danish delicacies as herring on black bread with curry salad, smoked salmon on toast and the famous meatballs known as frikadeller.
I think you’re going to make your friend very happy!
Friday, Feburary 13, 2009
Q: I read your post about the Vietnamese
restaurants down south but it is a little out of my way. I have
been looking for a Vietnamese restaurant in the Northern Palm Beach
County area (Jupiter, Juno, Palm Beach Gardens). Do you know of any
or have been to any? Alicia, Jupiter
A: I did some digging around
and the closest I can find is Vietnamese Express
Cafe, U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561-841-1313.
Message
boards give it mixed reviews, but if you’re looking for something
nearby, I’d give it a try. I hear raves, however, about Sakyo, 4931 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm
Beach, 561-616-5744. They serve both Vietnamese and Japanese and
the decor is a step up from the usual.
Wednesday, Feburary 11, 2009
Q: Whatever happed to Hobo’s Fish
Joint? I had a gift card and then the place closed down. Can I do
anything with it? By the way, we loved that place. Heather,
Hillsboro Pines.
A: I also loved Hobo’s. It went out of out
business a few years ago. I called Del
Vecchio’s Italian Fishery, which is now housed in the old
Hobo’s space on Powerline Road in Deerfield Beach. They had nothing
to do with Hobo’s and as such won’t honor your gift card.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Q: I am highly allergic to MSG and it
is used heavily in Asian dishes. Do you know of a restaurant which
makes pho without MSG? Thank you so much! Janis, Fort
Lauderdale.
A: There’s nothing quite like a bowl of the
Vietnamese noodle soup call pho. It’s especially satisfying with
this cool weather we’ve been having. But it’s tough to find without
MSG. The smaller, family-owned restaurants I called admit to
relying on MSG.
So I called Pho Hoa Noodle Soup in Tamarac (5435 North State
Road 7, 954-739-9888), the only South Florida franchise for the
California-based chain. They’re motto is “Health Conscious Choice.”
I was told that they’d need you to order ahead, but pho without MSG
could be arranged. While pho is traditionally made with beef –It’s
called pho ga when made with chicken.–he told me you’d have to
settle for tofu instead of animal protein. I hope this is of some
help.
Eating Asian with an MSG allergy is tough. Have you ever been
to P.F. Chang’s
China Bistro? It’s a chain and way more expensive than most
independent Asian restaurants, but they don’t use MSG – ever. They
have a dish on the menu called Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s
spicy and might give you enough of the pho flavor you’re looking
for.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Q: I go to the Broward Center for
Performing Arts regularly. My friends and I like to eat walking
distance from the theater and it is getting tougher and tougher to
find a any restaurants with the closing of Creolinas and the River
House. Any suggestions? Bob, Coral Springs.
A: It’s gotten more difficult to find good food near the Broward Center. But have you
tried Tarpon
Bend (200 SW 2nd St., 954-523-3323)? They serve great burgers,
sandwiches and of course seafood. It gets a bit crazy later in the
evening, but I’d recommend it before theater.
Tarpon Bend’s owners
recently opened YOLO â?? short for You Only Live Once
â?? over on Las Olas Boulevard. It’s a step up from
Tarpon Bend. It would also be a big walk to the Broward Center, but
a pleasant one if you take the walkway along the river. YOLO serves
everything from pasta to prime rib and the decor couldn’t be more
hip. I recently had lunch of Szechwan calamari and a chopped salad.
Very satisfying.
Finally, there’s the serviceable Palm Grill (300
SW 1st Ave., 954-779-1800) over in Riverwalk. It’s a big menu
geared toward tourists, but you can’t beat the prices. Depending on
your showtime, they do a Sunset Special for $11.95, which includes
a soup or salad. Among the choices are grilled Atlantic salmon,
chicken pomodoro and marinated skirt steak.
Friday, Jan. 30, 2009
Q: Hi John! My boyfriend and I are staying
at The Breakers for Valentine’s Day weekend, for a much needed get
away from Fort Lauderdale, where we both live and work. We are
already in love so no need for all that mushy, gushy stuff on
Valentine’s Day.
We realize we will need to make reservations for
Saturday night for dinner, but would like to dine somewhere off the
beaten path–not your typical Valentine’s Day dinner restaurant.
(No heart shape steaks for us.)
We love ALL kinds of cuisine and
would like some place that the local Palm Beachers know about, but
not your typical ‘popular/it’ place. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Carrie
A: Weekend at The Breakers? Nice! Call Chez Jean-Pierre Bistro
(132 N. County Rd., 561-833-1171) right now! It’s family owned and
run by Jean-Pierre Leverrier, wife Nicole and their sons Guillaume
and David.
The dining room is comfortable, but not glitzy. The menu
is French, but leans heavily into American continental. I haven’t
dined here in a few years, but I remember short ribs in red wine,
osso bucco and Dover sole meuniere. Service is top notch. Because
this is Palm Beach, you won’t be able to tell, but look around the
room and you’ll see many of the country’s wealthiest citizens.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a single tourist.
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009
Q: Is there a steakhouse in Broward
actually as good as Peter Lugers? I know some are expensive, but
not as good. Thanks, Roy
A: Peter Luger
Steakhouse is the 100-year-old steakhouse almost right under
the Williamsburg Bridge in Brooklyn. It serves USDA prime dry aged
steaks in what I consider pretty humble surroundings. You can order
the steaks and steak sauce on-line.
What can I say? You’re not in
New York City anymore. Branch out! Expand your horizons! Here are
three very fine Broward County steakhouses.
Bova Prime has been
opened just a few months on Las Olas Boulevard, but I know the
co-owners –Tony and Laurie Bova — from their Ristorante Bova
in Boca Raton. Steak doesn’t get much better.
Almost across the
street is Jackson’s Steakhouse, a restaurant that’s members-only at
lunchtime. Portions are huge. Service is top notch. The steaks are
prime.
Finally, try Council Oak Steak & Seafood at the Seminole
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. Sun-Sentinel
restaurant critic Judith Stocks gave it four stars just last year.
Its owners, Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, have teamed up with
the New York
Yankees’ parent company, Yankee Global Enterprises, to open NYY
Steak, modeled after Council Oak.
Look for the first to open this
year inside the new Yankee Stadium. With that Yankees connnection,
maybe you’ll find some of the New York vibe you’re looking for.
Thursday, Jan. 23, 2009
Q: My husband and I enjoy an outdoor
Sunday brunch, particularly around the winter time. If outdoor
locations are difficult to find, what restaurants offer a good
variety of brunch food? Sandy, Boynton Beach
A: I’m with you on
brunch outside during South Florida winters. A couple of places
come to mind.
Aruba Beach Cafe in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is
directly on the beach. While it’s better known as a spot for live
entertainment and drinks, they do a decent brunch.
If you want to
spend some real money, head to Cafe
Boulud in Palm Beach. The food is French. The courtyard dining
room is gorgeous.
And finally, if you’re feeling like a road trip
from you home in Boynton, head to The Biltmore Hotel
in Coral Gables for the Sunday Champagne Brunch.
The setting,
inside a center courtyard, couldn’t be more beautiful. Built in
1926, it’s now national historic landmark building.
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2009
Q: Hey John. I am bringing my wife down
for a second honeymoon. I want your take on the best lunch, dinner
and late night drink and snack place in Delray Beach. She
especially enjoys dining surf side. Thanks for your enjoyable
articles and for your input on this upcoming trip! Best of Life,
Tim, St Louis, Mo.
A: If you like to eat, you’ve chosen the
perfect spot for a second honeymoon. Delray Beach has endless
dining possibilities.
The only problem is that there are few
ocean-side restaurants.
For a big romantic dinner, I’d spend my
money at De La Tierra at The Sundy House. It’s a tiny boutique
hotel set in a gorgeous tropical garden. If the weather’s right,
there are tables set right in the garden.
I’ve had some great
brunches at Caffe Luna Rosa, which is on Ocean Boulevard right across
from the ocean. You can feel the ocean breeze from the tables on
the sidewalk. At night, Luna Rosa has live music and very good
Italian.
Next door to Luna Rosa is Boston’s on the
Beach. It’s a better-than-average place for chicken wings and
seafood. There’s always sports on the TV. There’s live music some
nights. Most importantly for you, the ocean view from the second
floor upper deck is the best in Delray.
If it’s exquisite food
you’re after, one of my favorite restaurants in all of South
Florida is 32
East, where Chef Nick Morfogen ever-changing menu always
features fresh South Florida ingredients. I’d also recommend the
bar at 32 East for a late night drink.
Drinks are also a hoot
Thursdays at Elwood’s Dixie Bar-BQ Barbecue Restaurant when an
Elvis impersonator performs.
If a slice of pizza is your idea of a
snack, check out Pizza Rustica, a South Florida-based franchise with
locations in California, Michigan and France.
Wander downtown
Atlantic Avenue and you’ll find fudge, ice cream, you name it.
Enjoy your stay!
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009
Q: I read your post about the Vietnamese
restaurants down south but it is a little out of my way. I have
been looking for a Vietnamese restaurant in the Northern Palm Beach
County area (Jupiter, Juno, Palm Beach Gardens). Do you know of any
or have been to any? Alicia, Jupiter
A: I did some digging
around and the most northerly Vietnamese I could find is Vietnamese
Express Cafe, U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561-841-1313.
Message boards give it mixed reviews, but if you’re looking for
something nearby, I’d give it a try.
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2009
Q: My wife and I will be staying at the
Fort
Lauderdale Grande Hotel and Yacht Club in a few weeks.
We love
unique, chef owned restaurants: moderately priced and close to
where we are staying would be extra bonuses. Any ideas? Thanks.
Mark, Maplewood, Minn.
I’ll be you can’t wait to get out of the
Minnesota winter? You’re staying close to the convention center on
the 17th Street Causeway, which is a fairly touristy part of town.
That said, try Bistro Mezzaluna (741 SE 17th Street Causeway,
954-522-9191). Chef Brian Rutherford always has lots of fresh
seafood on his menu. Mezzaluna is a fun place, especially at happy
hour.
Not too far away is 3030 Ocean (Harbor Beach
Marriott, 3030 Holiday Drive, 954-765-3030) where Chef Dean
James Max sources as many ingredients as possible from local
purveyors. It’s located directly on the ocean.
While not a
chef-centered restaurant, you’ll get a real sense of South Florida
at the restaurant at the Bahia Cabana Beach
Resort & Marina (3001 Harbor Dr., Fort Lauderdale,
954-524-1555). It overlooks a yacht basin and was once voted by
Boating magazine as the world’ best dockside patio bar and
restaurant. The menu runs to fried seafood and burgers, but the
cocktails will be well poured.
Finally, why not try Chef’s Palette? It features a menu created by
students at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, 1650 SE 17th St.,
954-760-7957.
Some of our best chefs got their start the Art
Institute.
Friday, Jan. 9, 2009
Q: Who has the best Vietnamese food in the
Palm Beach County area? Thomas.
A: I try to stay away from
calling anything “the best.” But I’d put my money on La Tre, 249 E.
Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton, 561-392-4568. Open for almost 20
years, it’s run by husband and wife – Toi Duong and Ngoc Tran. She
cooks. He waits tables.
Seven-year-old Cay da Vietnamese Restaurant
is also worth a try. It’s at 7400 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton,
561-998-0278. Enjoy!
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009
Q: I will be visiting South Beach for a
three day stay in a couple of weeks. What inexpensive, local
restaurants could you recommend? I am an adventurous eater, and
willingly travel off the beaten path for food I wouldn’t normally
find here in Philly. (We have a great restaurant scene here, BTW!)
Maria. Philadelphia.
A: Eating inexpensively in South Beach can
be difficult, but not impossible. Two Cuban restaurants come to
mind. David’s
Cafe, 1654 Meridian Ave., 305-672-8707 and Puerto Sagua, 700
Collins Ave., 305-673-1115. David’s has another location on
Collins, but I recommend the Meridian location just off Lincoln
Road. Eat on the diner side and you’ll save even more money. Having
consumed Cuban coffee just about everywhere in Miami-Dade County,
David’s may serve the best cup around.
For a simple, but great
sandwich after the beach, be sure to check out La Sandwicherie, 229
14th St., 305-532-8934. For 20 years, diners have been grabbing a
stool and sitting outside eating sandwiches on the freshest
baguettes. While not always inexpensive, but certainly unique, try
Tap Tap
Haitian, 819 Fifth St., 305-672-2898. The colorful interior
will make you feel like you’ve left the country. Enjoy your stay!
Friday, Dec. 12, 2008
Q: My parents will be celebrating their
50th anniversary and I would like to take them to a nice
restaurant. Our group will be composed of my parents, brother with
wife and two kids under 12, me and my wife (no kids).
I am looking
for a moderate to somewhat high priced restaurant. My parents are
old fashioned and I know they would like a restaurant with some
type of entertainment (A Tony Bennett sound-alike would be great!).
We all enjoy a good steakhouse or seafood restaurant. It can be any
restaurant between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Thanks for your help
and look forward to your suggestions. Mario, Miramar
A: Congratulations to your folks on their golden anniversary. There
are lots of good steakhouses in South Florida, but it’s the
entertainment part that’s hard to find.
Take a look at Shula’s On
The Beach, 321 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. (A1A), Fort
Lauderdale, 954-355-4000. They have a piano player and singer who
know lots of Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra. Many couples celebrate
their 50th have dined here. Here’s the rub: The average check is
$60 per person. But it’s possible to dine here for around $40.
You
might also consider Tropical Acres Restauranton Griffin Road in Fort
Lauderdale. Scroll down on this page to the question from the
Nicole in Sunrise. Tropical Acres is less expensive and they’ll
make special arrangements for a cake or whatever else you need.
If
it’s old-fashioned you want, head to La Paloma, 10999 Biscayne
Blvd., North Miami, 305-891-0505. They have a piano player/singer
on Saturday and Sunday nights. The menu covers all of the
Continental classics: French onion soup, escargot in garlic butter,
steak au poivre. Average check: $40. I ate here a few months ago
and was blown away by the quality of the food, even if the
preparations and the interior were just a bit retro. Still, it’s
the kind of restaurant my mother would have loved.
Thursday, Dec. 11, 2008
Q: Do you know of any good Mexican
restaurants that sell good Mexican tamales? They are hard to find
here in South Florida. William, Boca Raton
A: Yes, they are
hard to find here in South Florida.
Try Tortilleria Mexicana at
4115 N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park, 954-563-2503. (They have another
locatoin at 1614 E. Sample Rd., Pompano Beach, 954-943-0057.) A
colleague, who grew up in Texas, says this place is a real taste of
home, although they’re primiarly known for their house-made
tortillas. You can actually watch them being made.
Closer to where
you live in Boca, Tacos al Carbon, 4420 Lake Worth Road, Lake
Worth, 561-432-8474. It’s not the nicest place around, but they
make some incredibly authentic Mexican.
Q: My father is turning 70 and we want to have a surprise party
for him. We are a large loud Italian family (30 or more people
would be attending) and want to choose a fun, lively happening
place for a Friday night surprise dinner. Something moderately
priced, no more than $35 per person., possibly some place that has
dancing, music or some kind of entertainment. It would have to be
handicap accessible because dad uses a wheelchair. It can be any
restaurant between Hollywood and Boca Raton. Thanks for your help
and look forward to your suggestions. Nicole, Sunrise
A: Happy
birthday to your dad! I thought this would be a lot easier. But
once I started making calls, I realized I’ve never planned a party
in a restaurant.
Food prices at the downtown Fort Lauderdale
steakhouse where a live combo plays start at $50 per person. I
thought about a dinner cruise, but the one I called wanted $100
bucks a head. I’m not sure how your family feels about chains –
especially chains that specialize in Italian – but I know lots of
fans of Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
There are South Florida
locations, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs and Boca Raton.
Poke around the private dining section of the their web site.
The Plantation location has two sample menus at $22 or $26 per
person. They don’t have entertainment and won’t allow you to bring
anyone in, but your dad might be quite happy with the big band and
Perry Como that always plays here.
My other suggestion is the
venerable Tropical Acres Restaurant on Griffin Road, which is
celebrating its 60th anniversary. I called and spoke to owner
Carolyn Greenlaw, daughter of early owner Sam Studiale.
“Thirty-five dollars per person?” asked Greenlaw.”That makes a very
nice party.”
Once your party gets over 25 people, you qualify for
banquet prices. Menus start at just $16.95 per person. That doesn’t
include tax, tip or booze. A lot depends on whether or not you’re
serving alcohol, but you could serve prime rib and have a special
cake for well under $35. There’s a piano player in the restaurant
and Greenlaw can recommend DJs and other entertainers. Tropical
Acres will host 75 banquets in December alone, everything from
office holiday parties to birthdays.
Q: Can you tell us of anyplace in Broward county where we can
get a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch? Something like kahlua pork,
rice, macaroni salad, etc? Dan, Hollywood
A: Like most
Americans, my knowledge of Hawaiian food is pretty limited. I seem
to remember poi from that old TV show Hawaii Five-O. That
said, I recently read a story about president elect Barack Obama liking
to indulge in a treat from his childhood: the plate lunch, two
scoops of white rice, side of macaroni salad, heavy on the
mayonnaise.
For some crazy reason, I thought I might be able to
find a Hawaiian restaurant in South Florida. No luck. Pacific Grill
restaurant in Miami seemed like a possibility, but when I called
they told me they served Chinese.
Sorry Dan. I can’t help.
Does
anyone have any suggestions?
Wednesday, Nov. 26
Q: I’m looking for a fun place for 35-50
people within a 15 minute drive from The Ritz-Carlton in Manalapan.
It will be a Saturday evening dinner preceding a Sunday afternoon
wedding. Any suggestions? Not seafood! Ellen, Cherry Hill, N.J.
A: Everyone’s definition of fun is a little different.
But if money
is no object, have a look at Cafe
Boulud in the Brazilian Court Hotel. Chef Daniel Boulud
discovered quite a talent in Chef Zach Bell. The menu is, of
course, French-inspired. But it’s locally sourced and served in one
of the most sophisticated restaurants in all of South Florida.
Paradiso
Ristorante in Lake Worth might also fit the bill. Coming from
New Jersey, your standards of Italian cuisine are like set high.
Chefs Angelo Romano and Leonardo Cuomo will not disappoint.
Paradiso doesn’t come cheap either, but dinner in Lake Worth will
allow for your guests to stroll around the downtown area before and
after dinner.
While it might stretch your 15-minute rule, I’d also
suggest you check out Delray Beach. 32 East, which
specializes in sophisticated modern American fare served in a
relaxed setting, has a great party room upstairs. I’ve been here
for parties and have not been disappointed. Again, your guests will
love strolling along Atlantic Avenue.
Finally, although you said
“no seafood,” I’d recommend Charley’s Crab in Palm Beach. Along with seafood, there
are great steaks and very good pasta at relatively reasonable
prices. Check out the menu on-line. The ocean-side setting will
please out of state guests and the restaurant has private dining
rooms. Congratulations, by the way, to the bride and groom!
Thursday, Nov. 20
Q: My friend is turning 30 soon and we would like to have a
dinner party to celebrate. She originally selected a Greek place,
but it was a little pricier than some of the guests can afford–$30
per person and a $250 advance deposit. I have been straining my
brain trying to think of an alternative venue, but I have been
unable to.
Can you recommend an inexpensive or moderately-priced
($25 max per person) restaurant that also has entertainment and an
exicitng atmosphere? It also has to have indoor seating. S., Coral
Springs
A: Have you tried My Big Fat Greek Restaurant in Dania?
The food is excellent and the price is right. It’s not as fancy as
some Greek places, but they have a bouzouki player and belly dancing
on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. They can work within your
budget. The restaurant is at 3445 Griffin Rd., 954-961-5030, mbfgr.com. Click here for some Sun-Sentinel reader reviews.
You
might also try La Barraca Tapas Bar & Cafe, 115 S. 20th Ave.,
Hollywood, 954-925-0050. Poke around their website for catering
prices. They also have live flamenco performance at 8:30 and 10
p.m. Thursdays Fridays and Saturdays.
Check out Sun-Sentinel reader reviews.
Good luck!
Tuesday, Nov. 18
Q: Do you know of any restaurants that serve
shabu-shabu?–Kip, Fort Lauderdale.
A: Hiro’s Yakko San in
North Miami Beach serves shabu-shabu. According to Webster’s New
World Dictionary of Culinary Arts, shabu-shabu is “a Japanese
dish consisting of raw meat and vegetables cooked in a pot of hot
broth by each diner and served with various sauces: noodles are
added to the broth and served as soup.”
It gets its name from the
swishing sound the meat makes when it’s moved around the hot broth.
I’ve never had it, but it sounds like Japanese fondue. Hiro’s asks
that diners order shabu-shabu at least one day ahead and they’ll
only make it for two people. It’s $35 person. So it will cost you a
minimum of $70. Hiro’s Yakko San is at 17040 W. Dixie Hwy between
170 and 171st Streets, 305-947-0064.
Nor sure where you live, but
Hiro’s is well worth the drive. It’s where all of the sushi chefs
go after work. The menu is on a board which they bring to your
table. It’s a Japanese restaurant that serves everything BUT sushi.
Enjoy!
Monday, Nov. 17
Q: First of all, I just want to let you know
that I am a huge fan of your blog and have been following it
regularly. I just wanted to find out as to where I can find whole
fried turkey to purchase in Broward for Thanksgiving? Thank you so
much for your help. — Sweety.
A: Dear Sweety. I’ve never
written to a Sweety. Thanks for your kind words on my blog and
thanks for your question. The only option I could find is at Lulu’s Bait
Shack, 17 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., 954-463-7425. They
deep fry 12-14 pound turkeys that cost $44.95. For $69.95, you can
add mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, cornbread stuffing,
vegetables and a pumpkin pie. Lulu’s is on the second floor of
Beach Place. Be sure to call ahead.
Thursday, Nov. 13
Q: My boyfriend and I are considering going
out this year for Thanksgiving dinner. My mother, who is kosher,
will join us. A traditional turkey dinner is okay for the two of us
but Mom’s dietary restrictions need to be considered. Where do you
recommend we go in Broward on Thanksgiving day to dine with all the
trimmings and where Mom can get good quality grilled fish? Mom will
eat fish at a non-kosher restaurant. — Janet, Margate
A: Since
mom will eat in a non-kosher restaurant, you’ve got lots of
possibilities. My colleague, online producer Stephanie Horvath, has
compiled a list of South Florida restaurants that are open
Thanksgiving Day.
I’d suggest Brooks
Restaurant in Deerfield Beach. It’s a traditional white
tablecloth restaurant where the dress code is business casual. In
other words, it’s a special setting for a traditional Thanksgiving
Day meal. You and your beau can have traditional turkey and
stuffing for $34.50 per person. That includes an appetizer or salad
and dessert. Mom can order off the limited regular menu where
she’ll find both salmon and sea bass. The salmon is $32 for a
complete dinner or $18.50 for entree only. Sea bass is $39.50 for
the meal or $26 a la carte.
Friday, Nov. 7
Q: My daughter in lives in Broward. My daughter,
who will soon celebrate her 50th birthday, lives in Miami. Where
can I take her to celebrate? It’s a special occasion, but I don’t
want to break the bank. — M.D.
A: Happy Birthday. That’s a
wide open question, because there are so many great spots to eat in
Miami-Dade. Too many, however, don’t offer much substance or value.
That said, here are three suggestions starting in the south and
moving north. – Christy’s, the Coral Gables steakhouse, is
celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special $30 menu through
November. You don’t get to be 30 years old in South Florida without
great food and service.
– Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink in the
up-and-coming Design District has won all kinds of awards including
the New York Times’ Best New Restaurants of 2007. Chef
Michael Schwartz uses local and organic ingredients in both
familiar and surprising ways: ground lamb and apricot-stuffed sweet
onions and wood roasted black grouper come to mind. The menu is
divided into small, medium and large plates.
– Chef Allen’s in
Aventura is now 22 years old, but Chef Allen Susser just revamped
both this menu and decor with an emphasis on seafood. Prices also
came down. The starter menu is priced between $7-$12 and includes
an incredible shrimp and grits brulee.
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