159 Aragon Avenue Coral Gables , FL 33134
305-445-2584
Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Mon-Sat 6:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
Practicing for the LSAT has had its blessings. Not only is my score improving weekly, the class is right in front of hands-down one of the best sushi restaurants in Miami: Izakaya.
Don’t be alarmed as you walk in—the friendly owner will immediately shout from a distance-- “hello how are you!” It can be a bit startling, but the food more than makes up for any oddities. It is fresh, authentic and absolutely delicious.
Start with some miso soup and a side salad… coming for lunch? Grab one of the bento boxes… there are many combos to choose from. Staring at $9.00, they are a total steal!
The yakimatsu appetizer is wonderful as are the steamed dumplings.
If you want some adventure, try the numerous specials on the blackboard—they are bound to please and excite! I have tried most of the rolls and I have to say: YUM, YUM, YUM to the lobster roll.
As for dessert, try the cheesecake tempura… sinfully good.
The parking is a bit tough though. With the Westin right across the street, you have to fight off taxi drivers at night and business people during lunch hour for a spot at a meter. But it’s all worth it.
Izakaya is definitely the spot for fresh and fabulous sushi. Don’t miss it!
7318 Red Rd
South Miami, FL 33143
www.mojitogrill.com
A local South Miami favorite, Mojito Grill is the Cuban man's Subway. Everything is good in this tiny cafeteria. The Mojito Special for breakfast which consists of 2 eggs, ham/bacon, toast and home potatoes is the best way to start your day.
Come in for lunch and order their legendary pan con bistec. It's absolutely delicious. They have daily specials as well, but you just can't go wrong with the pan con bistec. Pair it up with a Jupina or a Materva to drink and your set and best of all its all for around $8.00.
Important things to note: parking can be difficult to find during lunch hour. The place is smack dab in the middle of a popular strip mall that holds other restaurants and a bank. During the week, a security guard mans the lot, so it can be a challenge to convince him or her to let you park in a spot designated for another business... but try...its worked for me in the past!
Mojito Grill also has the option to order before pickup. This can save you a long line and wait time. Enjoy it in a park or take it back to the office. Just know that the powerful aroma of those onions can be smelled from a distance.
Perfect for that bit of Cuban cuisine will all crave from time to time, Mojito Grill is the place to go and leave satisfied.
4702 S LeJeune Road
Mon-Fri :11am-7pm
Saturdays: Only Catering
Sunday: Closed
www.whiskgourmet.com
For a while now, my boss has been raving about Whisk. In fact, we have tried to have lunch there a few times but no luck-until yesterday! But a few words to the wise: come at least 15 minutes before you plan on dining. This tiny bistro is jammed packed from open to close and its no big wonder why. The food is amazing. Owned and run by a brother -sister duo, Whisk serves up some fabulous gourmet meals. Turkey avocado sandwiches, tossed salads and the most fabulous skirt steak sandwich you've ever tasted!
Although the wait can be a bit discouraging, don't let it get in the way. The waitstaff is super friendly and quick. As for parking, that can be a serious challenge.The strip mall only holds a few spaces. Check in the back... there are a few spaces that are held for patrons.
As your meal comes to an end, don't forget to let the waitress know you want a Misha's cupcake. Once they are gone, they're gone-so reserve yours as soon as you sit down. The red velvet is my favorite as well as the most popular.
All in all, I can totally understand my boss's love for this great little spot. It definitely "whisks" your taste buds into celebration mode.