If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in the Florida Keys, look no further than the newly re-opened Papa Joe’s Waterfront in Islamorada. Renowned for its breathtaking sunset views, we’re talking the sun melting into the ocean, Papa Joe’s offers an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

The menu is a delightful celebration of fresh seafood and local ingredients, and an array of signature cocktails, each crafted to enhance your dining experience while you take in the picturesque scenery of the waterfront property.

Papa Joe’s offers a distinctive menu that showcases both local seafood and premium meats. Highlights include: Not Yo Average Tuna Nachos, Creekstone Farms Churrasco and the Plantain Crusted Chicken. The Everglades Style Triple Tail was fresh and expertly prepared with unique ingredients.

These dishes, combined with signature cocktails such as the PJ’s Sunset, Goldrush and Papa’s Pain Pillar and the stunning sunset views, make Papa Joe’s a standout dining destination in the Florida Keys.

Papa Joe’s is not just about the food and views; it’s also about history and community. Owned by Captain Charles Hertel, who has deep roots in the area, the property has been transformed from its original incarnation as Fowler’s Fish Camp, established in 1938. Charles, inspired by his parents George and Dorothy Hertel—founders of the Islamorada Fish Company—has revived this historic property with the help of partners Bob Lee and Mica Perry. Together, they’ve created a modern destination that honors the rich history of the Florida Keys.

Whether you’re visiting for the food, stunning sunsets, or the charming history, Papa Joe’s Waterfront promises a memorable dining experience in a truly stunning location.

For more detailed information and to view the full menu, you can visit their official website here.

In the heart of Downtown Doral, Bombay Darbar has opened its newest location adding colorful flavors to this growing community. The beloved restaurant that has been a fan favorite since 2011 originated in Coconut Grove and has received rave reviews as one of the top Indian restaurants in South Florida.

On our visit we were treated to some of the most incredible dishes; every bite was an explosion of flavors.

To begin our journey, we enjoyed the Chili Chicken appetizer, crispy bite size chicken with fresh bell peppers in a tangy chili sauce, the Samosa Chaat, a deconstructed deliciousness served with fresh yogurt and mint, and the Saag Paneer, the traditional Indian cheese simmered in a mixture of fresh spinach, onions, tomatoes, and Indian spices.

For our main entrée, our wonderful server took it upon himself to order some of the house favorites. Our top choices were the Mango Chicken Curry, a boneless chicken cooked in delicious cashew sauce, mango puree and spices was exceptional and the Fish Goan Curry, an aromatic curry with a blend of spices, garlic, ginger and onion along with fresh tomato and coconut, with of side of Garlic Naan, traditional Indian flat bread topped with garlic and cilantro.

For dessert, and you must make room for dessert, we had the Kheer,
traditional Indian rice pudding that is made in-house, lightly sweet, garnished with sundried grapes, pistachio and cashew nuts. Absolutely fantastic.

The restaurant itself is quite a beauty with a grand Buddha that strikingly stands in the main dining room. The bar has an extensive menu of craft cocktails as well as wine and beer.

Bombay Darbar’s atmosphere and service will make for an unforgettable dining experience that will surely transport you and your tastebuds to a flavorful destination.

Bombay Darbar located in Downtown Doral Park at 8405 NW 53rd Street, Suite E101 and is open for lunch and dinner.

For more information visit: Bombay Darbar .

The newly opened Fairways restaurant at the Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables is the perfect place for a quick bite and cocktails after golf, a great lunch or an elaborate dinner. The stylish and versatile restaurant boasts an eclectic menu with stunning, sweeping views of the golf course.  This charming spot combines the elegance of gourmet dining with the comfort of your favorite everyday meals, all set against the backdrop of one of the most picturesque landscapes in Florida.

As you sit by the expansive windows, you’re treated to sweeping vistas of the pristine golf course, its emerald greens contrasting beautifully with the azure sky. The historic charm of the Biltmore and its lush, tropical surroundings create a serene and inviting atmosphere-a perfect setting for a leisurely breakfast, a relaxed lunch, or a romantic dinner. 

The menu at Fairways, created by seasoned chef, Sean Bernal, is a delightful blend of gourmet creations and beloved comfort foods. Lunch and dinner menus offer an array of inviting, well-prepared options including seafood, steaks, chicken, handhelds, salads and an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes; ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy. Appetizers include a great selection of oysters, crispy conch fritters and signature meatballs, to name a few. Our favorite dishes were the fall-off-the bone ribs- dripping with flavor and the churrasco, grilled to perfection. Be sure to try a side of onion rings. 

Our server, Amelia Garcia set the standard for impeccable service. With her genuine warmth and attentive service, Amelia ensured that our dining experience exceeded our expectations.

The decor at Fairways is a harmonious blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Soft lighting, plush seating, and tasteful artwork create a space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The expansive bar is Fairways’ centerpiece, containing a wide range of top-shelf liquor options and rare casks and vintages. Try the signature cocktails. We recommend the Butterfly Kisses, AZ-85 Old Fashioned and the Negroni.

Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal out, Fairways at the Biltmore Coral Gables is a destination that promises to delight your senses. From the breathtaking views to the exquisite food and the stylish decor, every detail is designed to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Fairways at the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables; 305-445-1926; biltmorehotel.com. Breakfast served daily 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dinner served Sunday through is Thursday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 5 to 9 p.m.

Volcanic Sushi + Sake  has managed to elevate the gastronomic landscape of Gainesville, Florida. Yes, you read it correctly, Gainesville- a place not typically associated with haute cuisine. However, impeccable taste(s) and flavors know no geographical boundaries.

From the moment you step into Volcanic Sushi, the ambiance exudes a sense of sophistication that one might not expect in this quaint Florida town. The minimalist yet stylish décor sets the stage for what can only be described as a culinary performance. A far cry from the casual eateries one might associate with college towns, Volcanic Sushi proves that style and substance can indeed coexist.

Now, let’s talk about the pièce de résistance – the sushi itself. The name “Volcanic Sushi” might sound dramatic, but rest assured, it lives up to the hype. The rolls are nothing short of art forms, each piece meticulously crafted to perfection. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite, proving that even in Gainesville, one can find a sushi experience that rivals those in the culinary capitals of the world.

The menu boasts a selection of rolls that go beyond the ordinary, showcasing creativity and innovation.  From the delicate dance of flavors in the “Eruption Roll” to the bold statements made by the “Lava Dragon Roll,” each dish is a testament to the chef’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional sushi. Volcanic Sushi’s loyal following has led to several specialty rolls being named after its regular guests. Our favorites include: Melissa Bites, Son’s Special, Alexander, Mark II, Newell Fox, and John I. Each bite we tasted was absolutely delightful. The sake selection is equally impressive, with each bottle carefully chosen to complement the unique flavors of the rolls.

Volcanic Sushi’s success is the result of the expertise and dedication of chef/owner, Nestor Espartero, whose official title is CEO and Chief Sushi Officer. It comes as no surprise that Espartero is a three time champion of Iron Chef Gainesville (2019,2020 and 2021) and double bronze medalist Sushi Master in a Miami Competition.

In addition to two Volcanic Sushi locations in Gainesville, Espartero has opened a Miami location. For his newest outpost, his vision is to own the most desired Asian Restaurant in the Cutler Bay area by providing outstanding quality innovative food, exceptional service and cleanliness. “Our mission is to bring great taste and happiness to each of our customers and to enhance the life of each or our staff members by providing them the right training and wisdom and to promote KAIZEN (a strong culture of constant improvement) as part of our daily lives.”

For more information about Volcanic Sushi, visit: https://www.volcanicsushisake.com.

February 18^th is National Drink Wine Day and Graziano’s is the place to be on this extremely important holiday. With wines spanning from several different countries coming from Italy to Spain to France to Argentina, Graziano’s vast wine selection has something that will be to accommodate to everyone’s liking. At Graziano’s good wine is always accompanied by extraordinary food: authentic Argentinian dishes expertly crafted and served with care.

Graziano’s extends its presence with 11 locations across Miami, inviting customers to explore both restaurants and markets situated in Bird Road, Coral Gables, Hialeah, Aventura, Doral, and Weston. Visit: https://www.grazianosgroup.com/

By: Maryanne Salvat

Last night we had the pleasure of dining at the beloved Peruvian gastrobar, Pisco y Nazca, Centurion Restaurant Group’s (CRG) newest addition on Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile.    The authentic dining experience brings locals and visitors a taste of Peru. From the creators and owners of Bulla Gastrobar, Beehive Kitchen, and Havana Harry’s, Centurion Restaurant Group opened the company’s first Pisco y Nazca in 2015 in Kendall, Florida. Since then, Pisco y Nazca has expanded, with locations in Florida (Doral and Coral Gables) Virginia (Reston), and Washington DC. The restaurant’s name stems from the Peruvian saying, “Entre Pisco y Nazca,” meaning having fun and enjoying the company of loved ones – which is the atmosphere they aim to provide all the communities they serve.

The menu boasts a selection of Peruvian classic dishes with a twist, prepared with the finest ingredients. From traditional ceviches (we enjoyed the Cremoso) bursting with fresh flavors to mouthwatering sushi rolls, yes I said sushi, the Lomo Saltado Roll to be precise; probably one of the most original rolls we have experienced. The main dish of Lomo Saltado was exceptional, served with a plentiful side of white rice and fries large enough to share. Every dish tells a story of Peru’s rich culinary heritage.

For those seeking a true taste of Peru’s national spirit, the bar offers an extensive list of Pisco-based cocktails, expertly crafted by mixologists, as well as a daily Happy Hour from 4-7 p.m. appropriately named Hora Loca.

Located at 101 Miracle Mile, Pisco y Nazca Coral Gables is open Sunday (11am – 10pm), Monday – Tuesday (11:30am – 10pm), Wednesday – Thursday (11:30am – 11pm), Friday (11:30am – 12am) and Saturday (11am – 12am). To view the restaurant’s menus and make a reservation, guests can visit www. piscoynazca.com/coral-gables/. For updates on the restaurant and its sister locations, follow them on Instagram at @piscoynazca.