Archive for the 'Fort Lauderdale' Category
Roadhouse Grill
by Barbara Kasser
ROADHOUSE GRILL
3300 East Commercial Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
(954) 772-3700
Now although I rarely lean towards the chains, this is a chain restaurant that is very “individual.” Although there are nine locations in South Florida my favorite Roadhouse Grill is the one on the beautiful Intra-coastal waterway in Fort Lauderdale. This was the former site of an old landmark called Stan’s. Now in the Stan’s days and to some of it’s culinary companions to the North and south along this waterway they would not be listed in a “best buy” article. However, here you have some of the most succulent and reasonable cuts of beef and barbecued ribs with the same view as it’s higher priced competitors. From the outside you wouldn’t believe that this place sports a true “down home” peanut shells on the floor ambiance. By boat or by car for one of the best steaks, salads, chicken, sandwiches, an outrageous baked sweet potato smothered in butter, brown sugar and cinnamon and those incredible yeast rolls, you can’t beat the Roadhouse Grill. It’s truly west meets east here and it’s delicious!
Rustic Inn
by Barbara Kasser & Jay Michaels
RUSTIC INN
4331 Ravenswood Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
954-584-1637
This local favorite has been wowing locals and tourists with garlic crabs and fresh seafood since 1955. Started as roadhouse saloon serving crabs as a tasty sideline, the Rustic Inn has grown into a sprawling waterfront establishment with its own dock, barge and several dining rooms. The crabs are the biggest draw. Heaping platters of crabs are served family-style, accompanied by a rubber mallet and bib for each diner at the table. Tradition dictates that empty crab shells are piled on the newspaper-covered tables. The Rustic Inn’s no reservation policy produces a long line at times during some peak times but don’t give up. The food justifies the wait.
Cafe Claude
By Barbara Kasser
CAFÉ CLAUDE
1544 SE Third Ct, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
(954) 421-7337
Evoke the spirit of Paris with a trip to this small, elegant café located in Deerfield Beach. The soft lighting, greenery, snowy linens and warm smell of garlic add an air of international romance to the evening. Enjoy the crusty bread as you look through the menu. While not for every palate, the pate is a house specialty. Scallops, when available, are always a good choice. The café’s table d’hote selections are an excellent way to keep the overall cost down. Each selection offers a full dinner and provides a broad range of flavor sensations. Reservations, especially during season, are suggested.
Tower Deli & Diner
By: Barbara Kasser
Tower Deli & Diner
2315 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33324
(954) 452-8202
The Tower Deli prides itself on its customer service and family atmosphere. Most importantly, the deli serves “real” food. How about a big breakfast to start the day, such as an omelet oozing cheese at the corners, a mountain of home fries and several pieces of buttered toast? Or an order of hot French toast, fresh from the grill. For lunch, why not order an overstuffed sandwich with freshly fried potatoes or tangy coleslaw? Tower’s breakfast, brunch and lunch menu is extensive, with something for everyone. The deli’s prices are so reasonable you’ll have enough left over to take home some of Tower’s amazing baked goods, made fresh daily.
The Ambry
by Barbara Kasser
The Ambry
3016 E. Commercial Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33318
(954) 771-7342
Cuisine Type: German/Austrian
This family-owned German restaurant offers great food, a cozy interior and great value. Most meals are priced under $20. Along with a plate-filling entrée, full dinners include unlimited trips to the Ambry’s salad bar, and choice of baked potato, home fries, spaetzle or rice. Schnitzel, prepared several different ways, is the house specialty. However, adventurous diners can opt for the buffalo steak, rabbit or venison. If you’re not in the mood for a complete dinner, a huge bowl of liver dumpling or goulash soup will fill you quite satisfactorily. Wash it all down with a tall glass of German draft beer or German schnapps.
Big Tomato Market Grill
BIG TOMATO MARKET GRILL
8300 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
(954) 704-0100
What a brunch! Every Sunday, Big Tomato Market Grill pulls out all the stops on this top-notch spread. Just about anything you can think of graces the restaurant’s ample tables, from poached salmon, eggs, waffles to several varieties of breakfast meats. Design your own omelet and then watch a smiling chef prepare it for you or try some roast beef or turkey from the carving station. Have a hankering for cheese blintzes? Add sour cream, preserves and dig in. The restaurant’s Italian roots dictate a few Italian dishes, including specialty pastas and eggplant and veal dishes. Serious brunch lovers return here every week. After your first visit, there’s a good chance you will too.