3040 Main Highway
Coconut Grove
www.lebouchondugrove.com
As the back of the menu so cleverly states; a bouchon is a small, friendly, neighborhood restaurant that serves up great cuisine using the best local products available. True to this, Le Bouchon du Grove is an authentic and exceptional French bistro. From the French speaking wait staff, to the very animated chef, Christian Ville, who pops out from time to time you may just forget you are in the Grove and not Lyon.
The food is superb. Come for breakfast served until 3pm, and have one of the fluffiest, perfect omelets. I recommend the goat cheese and tomatoe omelet. If you stop by for lunch or dinner, an excellent starter is the wonderful gratinée Lyonnaise (French onion soup). The steak sandwich is also delish. Coming for diiner? Remember that the fish is brought in fresh daily so you can’t go wrong in picking one. I once had the Chilean Seabass and every bite was heaven. Not in the mood for seafood? No problem. Try the carre d'agneau roti (roasted rack of lamb with Provence herbs) it is served warm and tender, with just the perfect amount of seasoning. Pair it with an amazing glass of wine. The waiters know best and this little spot boasts a great selection.
And who leaves a French restaurant without dessert? The crème brulee is outstanding but you just can't leave without trying the warm, flaky, Tarte Tartin (caramiles apple pie). Mmmmm. This place is pure food fabulousness.
7232 SW 59th Ave
South Miami, FL 33143
www.delilane.com
Hands down, Sunset Tavern is the place to go for Happy Hour. Neighborhood bars are supposed to be friendly and this place is true to that. Sunset Tavern has friendly people, friendly staff and definitely, friendly prices. You can get drinks for $3!
Take a seat at the bar or sit outside--the people watching is amazing. Full of regulars, this place caters to all. From people in their 70’s to freshman in college, everyone is just relaxing and having a good time. Throw a buck into the jukebox and hear your favorite tune or just wait for the live bands at night.
What’s not to love…great beer selections, strong pours and free appetizers inside until 7pm during happy hour. You can snack on garlic chicken, shrimp and oysters—just make sure you snag one the moment they bring it, they go quickly.
Don’t be fooled… it’s not just the happy hour that’s good here. Their sister locale, Deli Lane (right next door), serves up some great breakfast and lunch. This place is packed on Sundays with families and their dogs all enjoying Miami’s sun outside. Have one of the omelets—they’re to die for. And for lunch, my God don't missed the pressed duck sandwich!
Parking can be a bit tough at times. If you get there for happy hour around 4:30, you can valet park for free. Otherwise, you have to go meter searching a bit. On Sundays, it can be even tougher but it’s worth it.
Don’t miss out… come for breakfast, lunch or both… If you come for Happy Hour on a Friday, make sure to say hello… I’m one of the regulars!
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.
265 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables
Lets see... fresh food... great service and surrounded by books... What's not to love?
The Cafe at Books and Books is a great neighborhood spot where locals gather for some fabulous book finds, coffee and a quick chat.
I cannot recommend this place enough for a nice lunch with a colleague, a friend or a anyone actually! I religiously eat here every Friday. The grilled roast beef and blue cheese on ciabatta is delicious--pair it up with some tropical ice tea or a nice glass of wine and you're set.
If you want something uber fancy or a decadent meal, then this wont do. This is casual, light, down- to- earth dining.
You can sit in the cozy indoor cafe, or if the weather permits, sit outside and enjoy your meal or coffee under the shade of the large umbrellas.Don't be surprised if you see Mitchell Kaplan walking around or eating with friends and definitely don't forget to drink their frothy cappuccino!