Eat Local Miami 

 
 
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385 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, FL 33134


If you’re looking for something authentic, I’d have to say fuhgeddaboutit. But a cool place to people watch and dine in style, come right in.

The décor is probably something I’d describe as mobster chic. The walls are crammed with memorabilia from Marc Randazzo’s (chef and owner) days as a boxer, and kitschy/gaudy religious/rat pack/Italian-American stuff. Basically, absolutely fabulous.

As for the food, pretty damn good. The menu says that all the recipes are Marc’s mom’s, and, if you don’t like any of them “call her and tell her – phone number given on request.” It’s flavorful; the sauces are just the right texture and amount; the ravioli was stuffed with the perfect amount cheese and the salad, amazing! Artichokes, ham, beans...mmmmm


The prices are a bit expensive though.. Around $20-27 for most plates. But in all fairness, when you get your plate, you’ll feel this little wave of relief because there’s just so much food. Really, they look like family-style servings. The place isn’t cheap, my fabulous foodies, but it’s not terrible either.

Randazzo’s is one of those places you come with a date or for those nights you want to be uber-fab. I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s the best Italian place around or even semi-authentic, but I can say it’s a cute, chic place to get your Mickey Blue Eyes on...  

 
Sushin Izakaya 05/01/2009
 
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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!