APALACHICOLA
Up the Creek Raw Bar
For oyster lovers, Apalachicola is Florida’s pearl. At this laid-back eatery overlooking the Apalachicola River, experts shuck wild oysters faster than you can say, “Pass the hot sauce.”
313 Water St., Apalachicola, Fla. 850-653-2525, upthecreekrawbar.com.
DELRAY BEACH
The Office
A humble burger almost feels like a fine-dining experience at this upscale retro gastropub. Wash down the prime CEO burger with craft beer or strong ale.
201 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, Fla. 561-276-3600, theofficedelray.com.
MIAMI BEACH
Puerto Sagua
Tourists hungry for authentic Cuban food are discovering this no-frills mom-and-pop joint locals have loved for decades. The pernil asado, pork shoulder braised with onions and spices, consistently gets rave reviews.
700 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, Fla. 305-673-1115, facebook.com/pages/Puerto-Sagua-Restaurant/115522198477657.
ORLANDO
Hawkers Asian Street Fare
The streets of many Asian cities teem with “hawkers,” food vendors who sell an enticing array of exotic offerings, but you don’t have to cross the ocean to sample these snacks. This restaurant features small plates with big flavors. Order curry meatballs, steamed dumplings and skewers of satay to share with friends. Additional locations are in Jacksonville and St. Petersburg.
1103 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. 407-237-0606, eathawkers.com.
PENSACOLA BEACH
Peg Leg Pete’s
This casual pirate-themed seafood restaurant overlooking Lafitte Cove Marina is known for beer-steamed Cajun shrimp that packs a powerful punch. A children’s play area keeps little mateys entertained.
1010 Fort Pickens Road, Pensacola Beach, Fla. 850-932-4139, peglegpetes.com.
MIRAMAR BEACH
Seagar’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
This elegant New York-style steakhouse at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa prides itself on serving only steaks and chops with the USDA Prime Black Diamond rating. Those who like elaborate preparations, such as steak Oscar, can be assured that underneath that decadent sauce, is a steak that’s a cut above the rest.
4000 Sandestin Blvd. S., Miramar Beach, Fla. 850-622-1500, seagars.com.
SUNNY ISLES BEACH
AQ by Acqualina
The signature Sunday brunch buffet at Acqualina Resort goes far beyond made-to-order omelets, but if you do crave that brunch standard, you won’t have to stand around waiting at the omelet station; it will be brought to your table. Some diners eschew buffets because of the lack of service, but this oceanfront restaurant makes buffet dining a luxurious, hassle-free experience. Highlights include the seafood station and a variety of Italian classics.
17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, Fla. 305-918-8000, acqualinaresort.com.
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