19200 SW 344th St
Florida City, FL 33034
I still remember the first time I visited a farmer’s market. I was in San Francisco and instantly it changed my life. Seriously, I am not being dramatic. I picked up a few fruits here and there, had the freshest and best coffee ever, and listened intently as a few of the farmers talked about their plight and the benefits of eating local foods. It was from that point on that I became obsessed with how much our food choices impact the world. I have been spreading the message as much as possible down here in Miami, but hadn’t found a market that struck me until today’s visit to Robert is Here.
What a place! Way down in Homestead, this corner fruit stand is worth the trip--their creamy and thick fruit milkshakes alone! Robert offers his customers all sorts of goodies. From a variety of marinades, sauces, natural honey and exotic fruits, there is definitely something for everyone.
The stand started in 1959, when seven-year-old Robert sat at this spot selling his father's bumper crop of cucumbers. Now Robert ships around the world, and everything is first quality.
Friendly and a fellow foodie, Robert is always around if you have some questions. I had never tried lychees and he was kind enough to give me a taste. When I asked him if it was some sort of mamonsillo, he chuckled and said “it’s the Lexus of mamonsillos!” Boy, he was right. Absolutely delicious! My fabulous friend Wendy had come along on this fruit stand exploration and took some home too. After a few questions about some exotic fruits, we sipped on a mamey milkshake we had agreed to split and hit the road with our creamy goodness.
If I were you, I’d get to Robert’s quick. The summer heat in Miami is the best time for one of his refreshing milkshakes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Robert before he shuts down during September and October. The stand opens bright and early at 8am and never closes before 7pm.
Robert is Here means Monica is there!
10070 SW 57th Ave
Miami, FL 33156
When I came into work boasting about this tiny, but charming little roadside fruit stand, I couldn’t believe how many people had known about this gem. Where had I been—under a rock? No, truth be told, the people who know of it are locals from the neighborhood. Its faithful customers, parents and kids from neighbor Pinecrest Elementary, wait eagerly in line for their famous strawberry shakes. My God they’re good! All natural, thick and creamy!
For a few bucks you can savor an icy snow cone in all kinds of neat flavor combos or have quick picnic and watch the cars go by. Although Miami’s weather can get too hot to enjoy the outdoors at times, one sip of their strawberry shake or my favorite, the carrot-orange juice can turn Miami’s often unbearable heat into one fabulous and cool afternoon.