Local Restaurant Guide
Pompano Beach
And Fish Kitchen + Bar. Seafood Located at the Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, diners will enjoy a modern take on fresh seafood. The restaurant sports a contemporary and breezy ambiance. 1200 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-782-0100 $$
Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza. Italian • Pizza • Wings You can credit this place with bringing the whole “coal-fired pizza craze” to South Florida. Pizza and chicken wings — do you need any more? Try the cauliflower pizza — good and good for you. 1203 S. Federal Highway, 954-942-5550 $$
The Beach Grille. American Delicious eats near the beach with the capability to order online. 3414 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-6000 $
Beach House. American • Craft Cocktails This is the perfect place to take out-of-town guests. Snag one of the stadium seating style booths overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy the casual and relaxed ambiance with a rooftop deck on the second floor. 270 N Pompano Beach Blvd. 954-607-6530 $$
Brew Fish. Bar and Grill Dine outside in the tiki hut overlooking a canal right in Pompano Beach. They have a comprehensive bar/pub-style menu. 200 E. McNab Rd., 954-440-3347 $$
Briny Irish Pub. Irish • Bar Food At the end of East Atlantic Boulevard stands Briny Irish Pub. There is a large beer selection plus the regular and, dare we say, unique mixed drinks. The kitchen offers an array of bar food and some classics like bangers and mash and fish-n-chips. The casual atmosphere is created by an immense array of nautical artifacts and oddities that fill every inch of the pub. Music plays constantly, often live with a dance floor if one is inclined. 3440 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-3159 $
Bru’s Room Sports Grill. American This spot is home to the Florida State Booster Club of Broward County. Wings and plenty of bar food is available. 235 S. Federal Highway, 954-785-2227 $
Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar. Caribbean Since they opened their doors in 1990, Calypso has been a local favorite. This gem of a restaurant is known for its fresh, wild-caught fish, Bahamian conch dishes, Jamaican jerk and American favorites all served with an island flair. Try the house special cutter (sandwich) — sautéed shrimp with garlic butter, mushrooms and cheddar all stuffed into a hollowed-out kaiser roll. For island comfort food, don’t miss one of their curries or rotis. Fresh oysters and clams are also available. Wash it all down with a draft beer, a glass of wine or choose from over 40 different bottled beers. 460 S. Cypress Road, 954-942-1633 $$
Deerfield Beach
Baja Cafe. Mexican Locals flock to this long-established favorite for a Mexican dinner or just drinks. They are known for their margaritas and entrées, including their bandito honey bean burritos and many taco options. You’ll also enjoy their endless fresh chips served with two types of salsa. 1310 S. Federal Highway, 954-596-1304 $$
Barracuda Seafood Bar & Grill. Seafood • Brazilian This spot by the sea serves seafood with a touch of Brazilian flare, such as the bobo de camarao — shrimp sautéed in coconut milk, saffron, palm oil and yucca cream baked in a cast-iron skillet. 123 NE 29th Ave., 954-531-1290 $$
Casa Maya. Mexican Start with a margarita, and it only gets better from there. This is not your typical Mexican joint — it’s better. Try gobernador tacos: a combination of shrimp with diced poblanos, onions, tomatoes and cilantro on a crispy corn tortilla topped with melted cheese. 301 SE 15th Terrace, 954-570-6101 $$
Chanson at the Royal Blues Hotel. Seafood • Seasonal Chanson offers fine dining with an ocean view. 45 NE 21st Ave., 954-857-2929. $$$$
Deer Creek Grille. American Enjoy the club atmosphere with gorgeous views of the lush gardens and waterfall. The restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials, a Sunday breakfast buffet and covered patio dining so you can dine al fresco. 2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd., 954-421-5553 $$
JB’s on the Beach. Seafood The restaurant boasts glorious beach views and a private glass room perfect for business or family affairs. 300 N. Ocean Way, 954-571-5220 $$$
Le Val de Loire Restaurant. French • Steakhouse The menu at this cozy French bistro includes many classics. So next time you crave sole meunière, filet mignon au poivre or beef bourguignon, you don’t have to go further than the Cove. The steakhouse menu includes a New York strip and a rib eye, among other cuts. Le Val de Loire is a French restaurant, so they offer three sauces with the steaks — including a mushroom cream sauce. Classic steakhouse sides like creamed spinach are also available. 1576 SE Third Court, 954-427-5354 $$$
Little Havana. Cuban Little Havana has fantastic lunch specials, and most of their dinner plates will feed two. Their masas de puerco frita and their Little Havana steak are two of the standout menu items, aside from their zesty chimichurri. 721 N. Federal Highway, 954-427-6000 $$
Lighthouse point
Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grill. American Bar food and a wide array of televised sports games with a game room for kids. 2002 E. Sample Road, 954-781-6227 $
Cap’s Place. Seafood Lighthouse Point’s own hidden seafood joint dating back to prohibition. Take the short boat ride over to the restaurant. 2765 NE 28th Court, 954-941-0418 $$$
Fetta Republic. Greek Traditional Greek offerings close to home. 2420 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-2394 $-$$
Fish Shack. Seafood This restaurant used to be a “best-kept secret.” But now that they have moved into the Shoppes at Beacon Light, the word is out. The Fish Shack keeps it simple, serving fresh fish prepared in several ways. There is more to the menu, but it is called The Fish Shack. 2460 N. Federal Highway, 954-586-4105 $$
Le Bistro. Continental Classically-trained chef Andy Trousdale serves up classics and inventive new dishes at this little neighborhood gem. Fresh and local produce is always used, and vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free menu items are available. A note to the wise; the porcini mushroom soup is worth every calorie. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and wine tasting dinners. More than worthy of a special occasion. Reservations are recommended. 4626 N. Federal Highway, 954-946-9240 $$$
Legends Tavern and Grille. American Enjoy gastropub fare, including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 3128 N. Federal Highway, 754-220-8932 $-$$
The Nauti Dawg Marina Café. American Nestled at the Lighthouse Point Marina, the Nauti Dawg is a local favorite. Start with the tuna wontons—crispy fried wonton wrappers topped with tuna tartare, seaweed salad, red pepper mayo, wasabi and a hit of sriracha. You can’t go wrong with the fresh fish sandwich—ask what the catch of the day is. They are a dog-friendly restaurant. 2830 NE 29th Ave. (at the Lighthouse Point Marina), 954-941-0246 $$
Papa’s Raw Bar. Sushi • Seafood While the fresh food is the real star, the Keys-inspired decor accounts for part of their charm. The menu goes beyond typical raw bar offerings with inventive tacos and sliders. Papa’s also offers an impressive array of sushi and sashimi. And to wash it all down, they have about a zillion craft beer options and a good wine list too. 4610 N. Federal Highway, 754-307-5034 $$-$$$
Rocca Trattoria. Italian Rocco is a small and intimate neighborhood place serving classic Italian fare. 2014 E Sample Road, 954-876-1733 $$
Rocca Trattoria. Italian Rocco is a small and intimate neighborhood place serving classic Italian fare. 2014 E Sample Road, 954-876-1733 $$
Pompano Beach Cont.
Casareccio Trattoria Italiana. Italian Wow! What a find. This small but impressive Italian eatery is delightful. We can’t tell you what to try because the menu changes daily. However, we are willing to bet you will fall in love with this place which feels like it just plopped into Pompano straight from the hills of Tuscany. Reservations are highly recommended. Also, call ahead to see what they are serving. 1386 S. Federal Highway, 954-998-3642 $$$-$$$$
Checkers Old Munchen. German For a traditional German meal, try the wiener schnitzel — it’s divine — a lightly breaded veal cutlet sautéed in lemon butter and topped with homemade brown gravy. The spaetzle (German noodles) are a real homemade treat and not to be missed — throw a little of that brown gravy on them, and they could be a meal unto themselves. The red cabbage is both classically sweet and sour and there are other side options too including potato dumplings, potato salad and even hot potato salad. Imbibe to your heart’s content with their vast assortment of German beers. 2209 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-7565 $$
Chef Dee’s. Sushi • Seafood A small neighborhood place with plenty of charm. Impressive sushi rolls and a varied menu with something for everyone. 3919 N. Federal Highway., 954-582-4444 $$
Dangerous Minds Brewing Co., Brewery • Artisanal Pizza Dangerous Minds is more than just a brewery. This spot at Pompano Citi Centre offers artisanal pizzas made from scratch. Their specialty is a Scotch egg, a soft-boiled egg wrapped in homemade sausage and then fried until crispy on the outside. But back to the brewery — all the beers are brewed on-site, and owners Adam and Andre hale from Germany and England — two countries steeped in beer tradition. 1901 N Federal Highway, 954-657-8676 $-$$
Darrel & Oliver’s Cafe Maxx. International This restaurant is an anchor of the South Florida fine dining scene. 2601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-0606 $$$$
Deep Oceanfront Dining & Bar. American Beach front dining at the Beachcomber Resort — go for the view. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 1200 S. Ocean Blvd. 954-941-7830 $$$
Deccan Spice. Indian Enjoy the contemporary decor and take your pick from classic dishes like chicken tikka and biryani and curry dishes to some Indo-Chinese twists like crunchy stir-fried noodles. There are plenty of vegetarian options on this menu and many variations on naan — Indian flatbread. 1149 S. Federal Highway, 954-366-1847 $$
Di Farina Pasta Factory & Restaurant. Italian We all know that fresh-cut pasta is superior to the dried variety we have become accustomed to. But making pasta from scratch is a process. But what if you could just pick it up nearby or even have it delivered. Dreams do come true. Di Farina offers a variety of freshly made pasta to go. And if you can’t be bothered to make a sauce, they’ve got 19 from which to choose. The restaurant also has a full menu of Italian favorites. 1915 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-953-6771 $$
Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill. Seafood • American Enjoy a deal every day. 2500 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-3762 $$
The Foundry. American • Continental Seating options galore, from bar seating to lounge seating and old-fashioned casual dining seating — all with a contemporary American menu. 2781 E. Atlantic Blvd., 754-205-6977 $$
Galuppi’s. American What could be more entertaining than watching golfers swing and blimps ascend as you sip a drink at an outdoor bar? 1103 N. Federal Highway, 954-785-0226 $-$$
Gianni’s Italian Restaurant. Italian Gianni’s is practically a Pompano Beach landmark. Enjoy traditional Italian fare at this family-owned and operated establishment, serving everything from pasta to specialties like Chicken Gianni’s and fresh seafood. Don’t skip the romaine salad with the blue cheese. Pair your dish with a bottle of wine or cocktail from their full bar. They also offer daily lunch specials Monday – Friday. 1601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-1733 $$
Houston’s. American Enjoy this contemporary eatery for lunch or dinner. An outdoor bar and seating on the Intracoastal are available. 2821 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-9499 $$$
J Mark’s. American A relaxing, modern restaurant and bar with food and service to match. 1490 NE 23rd St., 954-782-7000 $$$
Kin Asian Street Food. Asian • Sushi Enjoy everything from inventive takes on ramen soups with pork belly and a jammy egg to rice bowls and dumplings. We swooned over the shiitake buns, mushrooms with pickled sour mustard, ground peanuts and cilantro, all on a steamed rice bun. The gyoza was also a star — the dough was light and tender with a flavorful pork and vegetable filling. The restaurant has a comprehensive sushi menu, but this is a place to order outside your comfort zone. After all, isn’t sushi the new pizza? 143 SW Sixth St., 954-532-4567 $$
La Perla Di Pompano. Italian This small and intimate Italian eatery offers a wide selection of Italian dishes, including four different risotto dishes alone. 420 N. Federal Highway, 754-222-9174 $$$-$$$$
La Veranda. Italian The atmosphere is elegant, yet comfortable and warm. Inside or out, one can enjoy a special evening in the Tuscany-inspired surroundings. There is an extensive selection of pasta, entrées and traditional dishes, with new favorites to be discovered that the wait staff will happily explain. Taste the love in their homemade desserts. If you’re looking to celebrate, La Veranda is an excellent choice. Reservations are suggested. 2121 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-7390 $$$
Legends Tavern and Grille. American Enjoy gastropub fare, including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 10 SW Sixth St. $-$$
Pompano Beach Cont.
Lucky Fish Beach Bar + Grill. AMERICAN It’s places like Lucky’s that make you happy you live in South Florida. This tiki bar by the sea (just south of the pier) offers simple eats, some top-notch people watching all with an ocean view. The menu includes classic snack foods like coconut shrimp and fish dip to tuna poke nachos. There are also salads, sandwiches and smash burgers. You can also order to go for a picnic on the beach. 222 N Pompano Beach Blvd. $
Miami Masala. Indian Enjoy classic Indian dishes and a few more modern ones with an Indian twist. While not being a classic Indian dish, the stuffed Hungarian peppers appetizer had all the flavors fans of the cuisine crave. Try the Indian crepe — crazy good. A daily lunch buffet includes traditional, vegetarian and vegan choices. 900 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-317-1371 $$
Mora Grill. Mediterranean This cozy yet modern spot is open for lunch and dinner. The menu includes a range of Mediterranean favorites, from kebobs to gyros. They offer lunch specials and family-style platters for six people served with appetizers, salads, kebobs, rice and vegetables. 3428 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-933-2003 $$
Nonna’s Bistro & Cafe. Argentinean • Bakery • Cafe Some of Nonna’s offerings include pasta frola cake, American keto salad, and a charcuterie board for two. Carryout and delivery are available. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-532-9920 $$
Oceanic. American • Seafood Along with stunning ocean views, the restaurant offers a comprehensive menu emphasizing seafood. If you are looking for a standout salad, the watermelon arugula salad with grilled shrimp is a perfect choice. The shrimp and grits were prepared traditionally and packed with flavor. The baby back ribs were melting off the bone, and there was enough for a doggy bag. The restaurant boasts dazzling architecture inspired by the great ocean liners of years past. 250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-366-3768 $$-$$$
Pho Lavie. Vietnamese If you have never had Vietnamese food, you are missing out. This spot will delight you. Everything is so fresh. Go and have some pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), you’ll thank us. 3321 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-4155 $$
Ruby’s by the Sea. Italian Tucked away in a small strip mall near the Hillsboro inlet is Ruby’s, serving classic Italian fare. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-785-7700 $$
Rusty Hook Tavern. American Located on the Pompano Intracoastal, sit inside or outside; just keep in mind that the word tavern means a local place to gather around the table. 125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-941-2499 $$
Saito Japanese Steakhouse. Japanese This Japanese steakhouse offers a wide variety of entrees, including teriyaki dishes, tempura and sushi. Diners can choose to sit at the sushi bar, or they can enjoy hibachi-style dining. The restaurant has a comprehensive cocktail menu and 20 different kinds of martinis. 2101 N Federal Highway, Suite 208, 954-945-8888 $$
Sands Harbor Patio Restaurant. American Located in the Sands Harbor Hotel and Marina on the Intracoastal, you can dine poolside or waterside; either way, you better know how to swim. 125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-942-9100 $$
Seaside Grill. Seafood • American Enjoy a view of the Atlantic while enjoying fresh seafood and an icy cold cocktail. Don’t worry if you’re not a fish lover — there are plenty of entrée choices from the land. Located at Lighthouse Cove Resort on the ocean. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-783-3193 $$
Shishka Lebanese Grill. Middle Eastern It’s not easy to make a good falafel, but the ones at Shishka are worth every calorie. There are plenty of other choices, too, from the classic hummus to baba-ghanouj to chicken and meat shawarma. 1901 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-2999 $$
Spanx the Hog BBQ. Barbecue Spanx uses natural ingredients and offers dine in, take out, and custom catering. 147 S. Cypress Road. 954-590-8342 $
Table 2201. Mediterranean Everything at Table 2201 is made on the premises — even the desserts. Start with the pygros, a tower of eggplant, potatoes and ground beef topped with a cool yogurt sauce. 2201 E. Atlantic Blvd., 718-600-2236 $$
Take Sushi. Japanese • Sushi Fresh, authentic Japanese fair delivered to your door? Yes, please. 2714 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-2442 $$
Umberto’s of Long Island. Italian • Pizza When a pizza is named Grandma’s Pizza — you must order it. And trust us, you won’t regret it. There is family tradition baked into every bite. But, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Umberto’s offers all the Italian standards. 2780 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-784-7110 $$
Valentino’s Italian Cuisine. Italian • Pizza An abundance of Italian fare served for lunch or dinner. If you can’t make it over to dine in, fret not; they offer free delivery. 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-943-5387 $$
Wings N’ Things. Wings • Barbecue It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it’s worth trying. 150 S. Sixth St., 954-781-9464 $
Zoyuz. Sushi • Japanese Bowls Zoyuz offers sushi and inventive ramen-inspired bowls. Plus, they have an innovative drink menu. 2515 E Atlantic Blvd. 954-951-6068 $$
Zuccarelli. Italian • Pizza This place is more than just a pizza joint. From eggplant Parmesan to shrimp fra diavolo, you will leave quite satisfied. The portions are generous and come with a house salad. Bring your breath mints because their garlic rolls are on point. 1340 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-1261 $
Deerfield Beach Cont.
Luigi di Roma. Italian The atmosphere is always lively at Luigi di Roma — mainly if you arrive during happy hour! Naturally, you will find all your favorite Italian dishes on the menu, with everything from eggplant Parmesan to shrimp scampi and everything in between. You can also order take-out online. 718 S. Federal Highway, 954-531-6151 $$-$$$
Ocean’s 234. Seafood Amazing views of Deerfield Beach and the pier with gluten-free options are available. 234 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-428-2539 $$$
Patio Bar & Grill. Continental Enjoy cocktails just feet from the sandy beaches of Deerfield. This relaxed spot at the Wyndham serves casual fare. You can stick to the classics like wings or a shrimp cocktail. Or be more adventurous and enjoy an order of volcano spring rolls stuffed with crab and served with sriracha mayo and wakame slaw. They also serve burgers and plenty of fresh salads and savory entrees. There is often live music contributing to the energetic vibe. 2096 NE Second St., (at the Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort) 954-596-8618 $$
Patrizio of NYC. Italian At Patrizio, you will find all the classic Italian dishes we all love. The vibe is lively and the food is tasty. What more do you need? 1544 SE Third Court, 954-751-9797 $$
Taj. Indian This unassuming eatery in the Cove Shopping center has been quietly chugging along for years. The restaurant serves various Indian favorites, including tandoori breads, biryani, lamb specialties, and plenty of vegetarian options. The saag paneer, which is the Indian version of creamed spinach, goes well with anything on the menu. SE 15th Terrace, 954-427-0423 $$
Tijuana Taxi Co. Mexican Perhaps it’s the all-day happy hour (Mon.-Fri., 11am-7pm) with $6 El Jimador margaritas, but as soon as you enter, the day’s weight lifts off your shoulders. There is outdoor patio seating available and a large U-shaped bar inside. The portions are generous — certainly enough for a doggie bag. And for the little ones there is kids night on Sunday: kids eat for $1.99 from the $6.99 kids menu. 1015 S. Federal Highway, 954-708-2775 $$
Whales’ Rib. Seafood Locals know it well, and tourists know it from “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Whatever you do, don’t skip the whale fries. 2031 NE Second St., 954-421-8880 $$
Fast and Casual
Anne Marie’s Pizza and Wine Co. Pizza • Italian Whether you are looking to grab a quick slice or enjoy a much-needed date night, Anne Marie’s fits the bill. Enjoy a cheesy slice of New York-style pizza, bruschetta or classic chicken Francese. 2313 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach 954-590-2100.
Bakery Fusion. Cafe • Bakery This spot at Pompano Citi Centre is a handy spot to grab a coffee and a fresh-baked good. The menu also includes many different sandwiches, soups, salads and smoothies. You can also find fresh bread such as baguettes, ciabatta and other daily selections and a wide selection of coffee drinks, from cappuccino to an affogato 1901 N. Federal Highway (Pompano Citi Centre), 954-532-7383
Bella Monte Italian Deli. Sandwiches 2688 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-0333
Brendans. Bar and Grill Burgers, wings and more — you get the picture. 868 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-0033
Big Louie’s. Italian • Pizza A South Florida chain offering classic Italian dishes. 2190 N. Federal Highway, 954-942-5510
Borogodo Brazilian Grill. Brazilian Open for lunch Monday-Friday 11am-4:30pm; Saturday 11am-5:30pm. 7 SE 22nd Ave., 954-782-8040
Broad Street Deli. Breakfast • Delicatessen Jewish-style deli sandwiches, subs, wraps, homemade soups, bagels, and homemade baked knishes. Open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Saturday, 8:30am-4pm. 2657 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-816-9649
Cafe Brie. Sandwiches • Salads A little gem of a place that serves fantastic sandwiches, salads, quiche and desserts. 2765 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-532-7800
Cafe Sportivo. Cafe Cash only, but don’t let that stop you. They are family-owned and operated with a variety of espresso drinks. 2219 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-6672
Cannoli Kitchen. Italian • pizza The Cannoli Kitchen has been a staple for fast-casual Italian fare in Boca Raton since 1996. Now, lucky for the folks in Pompano, they are open at a new Pompano Beach Fishing Village location. Try one of their many pasta dishes, calzones, subs, stromboli and other Italian classics like shrimp fra diabolo, chicken or veal marsala, and many more. 255 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-737-3737
Carlucci’s Brick Oven Trattoria & Pizzeria. Italian Italian favorites and brick oven pizza at the beach. Open lunch and dinner Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 12-10pm. 3420 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-3150
Chez Cafe. Coffee • Bakery A warm and cozy place to grab breakfast, lunch or a latte. 1631 S. Cypress Road, 954-933-3453
Dandee Donut Factory. Bakery • Pastries From the classic old-fashioned sour cream to Boston cream, these babies are just begging to be dunked. Bagels, breakfast and lunch are also available. 1900 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-1461
Five Girls. diner Check out this cozy, neighborhood joint. Five Girls offers all the classics you crave, including burgers, hand-cut fries and the owner’s favorite Philadelphia cheesesteaks. 2659 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-8889
La Rachetta at Whole Foods Market. Pizza • Wine Bar Enjoy weekly deals with plenty of beers on tap and wines by the glass. Try the sweet southern swine pizza for something different — a light and crispy pizza topped with pork belly, arugula, and cheese. 2411 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-3535
Jet’s Pizza. Pizza Try one of the specialty pizzas such as Philly cheese steak with Alfredo sauce or the BLT. 437 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-5387
Jukebox Diner. Diner Bright, classic seating, jukeboxes, and that old-school diner feel. 2773 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-960-5882
Lester’s Diner. Diner American comfort fare in a retro setting. 1924 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-2109
Lighthouse Cove Tiki Bar. American Seaside eats and happy hours. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-784-2804
Little Italian. italian • Pizza Little Italian Pizza is the best kind of Italian restaurant — the kind that feels like a hole-in-the-wall, but quickly grows vibrant as the large, steaming plates of homestyle Italian dishes come barreling out of the kitchen. While the small restaurant (with only about six cozy tables) doesn’t serve alcohol, they do allow BYOB. Families bring in bottles of red wine to cork, creating a joyous atmosphere. The restaurant has a huge menu with stromboli, calzone, soups, salads, subs, 26 kinds of specialty pizzas, baked pasta dishes, chicken and veal entrées and traditional pasta dishes and desserts. 448 S. Cypress Road, 954-941-0550
Mini Pita. Mediterranean The comprehensive menu includes plenty of salads, pita melts, sandwiches, gyros, shawarma, kebabs, falafel, and entrees that include lamb chops and mousaka. 2555 E. Atlantic Blvd. 954-532-9595
Nelson’s Diner. Diner Nelson’s diner is a cute, hole-in-the-wall 50s diner with Elvis memorabilia on the walls, baseball flags on the ceiling, friendly servers and classic red vinyl booths. 438 S. Cypress Road, 954-785-3646
Pascal & Cathy French. Bakery • Cafe For fresh French baked goods, you can’t beat Pascal & Cathy. In fact, you can watch through a window as the croissants, eclairs and baguettes are prepared and baked right on the premises. The small shop also offers breakfast, sandwiches, salads, coffee and more. The croque monsieur was positively sinful and worth every calorie. 998 N Federal Highway, Suite 4-5, 954-756-1496
Rocket at Valentino’s. Pizza This family-owned pizzeria is an excellent alternative to the big chains. Order an authentic Italian pizza and taste the love! 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-943-5387
Stingers Pizza. Pizza • American Dine in or order delivery. They will bring your pizza to the beach—a million minds making the world a better place. 1201 S. Ocean Blvd., 954-782-2344 $
Burger Fi. Burgers Everything at Burger Fi is cooked to order. Don’t miss the fries and the larger-than-life onion rings. The breakfast all-day burger is topped with a fried egg. 3150 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-7120
Red Fox Diner. Diner Treat yourself to one of the daily specials at the Red Fox and you just might be able to skip dinner. But if you are in the mood for some comforting diner food, Red Fox never disappoints. Breakfast and lunch are served daily. 2041 NE 36th St., (Sample Road) 954-783-7714
Packy’s Sports Pub. Sports Bar If you are looking for a local spot to watch the game, Packy’s always pack them in. 4480 N. Federal Highway, 954-657-8423
Snow Time. Boba Tea This spot for treats features bubble tea (boba) in about a zillion flavors. If you are looking for something new, different and delicious, get some bubble tea. Other sweet treats are paper-thin shaven ice cream and authentic Asian snacks. 2482 N. Federal Highway in the Shoppes at Beacon Light, 954-597-6269 $
Biondo’s Pizza. Pizza • Subs Dine-in or take-out available. For something other than pizza, try the stromboli or the wings. 606 S. Federal Highway, 954-427-7754
Bob’s Pizza. Pizza • Italian Pizza served remarkably close to the beach — as if pizza could get any better. 2076 NE Second St., 954-426-1030
Burger Craze. Burgers Top-quality ingredients come together to create unique taste sensations. Enjoy juicy burgers, hot dogs, wings and more. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 954-596- 5949
Charlie’s Fish Fry. Seafood Hey, it’s not quite Martha’s Vineyard, but Charlies is a terrific spot to satisfy a craving for fish and chips. There are plenty of other options — it’s almost like a quick trip to a New England clam bar. 1200 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-573-7198
Charm City. Burgers Try the emperor — an American Kobe beef patty with aged Swiss, truffled aioli and sautéed mushrooms — a burger fit for a king. 1136 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-531-0300
El Jefe. Mexican For a genuinely inventive take on Mexican street food, this small yet bright and cheery taco joint is full of surprises. 27 N. Federal Highway, 954-246-5333
Gelateria. Gelato Gelateria offes more than 26 flavors of gelato. Take a stroll on the beach with a cone. Open daily. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 694-428-2850
Michael’s Pizzeria. Pizza Closed Mondays 1645 SE Third Court, Deerfield Beach, 954-426-1515
Nick’s Pizza. Pizza Nick’s family moved from the Bronx to Deerfield Beach years ago and opened Nick’s Pizza. The restaurant offers an extensive Italian catering menu, delivery and New York Style pizza. 137 NE Second Ave., 954-421-6700.
The Pickle Barrel. Delicatessen Get in touch with your inner New Yorker at this old-style deli, complete with friendly guys behind the counter filling your sandwich with enough pastrami to feed a family. 33 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-427-0650
Olympia Flame. Diner With a traditionally huge diner menu, you can’t go wrong at the Olympia Flame. For a real treat, try the turkey pot pie. The friendly staff makes you feel like a regular — even if you aren’t — but you should be. 80 S. Federal Highway, 954-480-8402
The Sticky Bun. Deli • Bakery Everyone will find something to munch on, whether their flourless chocolate cake or a short rib panini with fontina cheese and pickled red onions… yum. We’re still dreaming about the BLT. 1619 SE Third Court, 754-212-5569
Tropical Grill Island Cuisine. Caribbean Don’t be fooled by the counter service at this beachside eatery where the offerings range from escovitch snapper to shrimp curry. Grab a table outside for people watching. 241 N. Ocean Drive, 754-227-5055.
Umberto’s. Pizza Family tradition baked into every bite. Try Grandma’s pizza, square pizza with fresh tomato and basil and, of course, mozzarella. 233 N. 21st Ave., 954-421-7200
The Chicken Box & More. Southern This small spot with just a couple of tables serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and does a robust take-out business. Have your fill of southern comfort food, including shrimp and grits with scrambled eggs, fried pork chops, classic potato salad, meatloaf and collard greens. The greens were stellar — they were juicy and perfectly seasoned with bits of pork supplying a pleasing heft. 204 N. Flagler Avenue, 954-781-7400
The Gyro Joint. Middle Eastern Eat in or carry out. It’s all Greek to me. 165 S. Cypress Road, 954-946-9199
The Poké Company. Poké Build your own bowl by choosing a base of rice or greens, then add a protein such as ahi tuna or steamed shrimp, then go to town with the mix-ins and sauces. Then top your bowl with everything from pickled ginger to tempura flakes. There are an infinite amount of choices. If bowls aren’t your thing, you can build your own poké burrito. 1154 N. Federal Highway, 754-220-8933
The Rabbit Hole. Vegan This small spot serves up elevated vegan comfort cuisine. If you are trying to eat less meat, but still crave chicken wings, The Rabbit Hole serves boneless and meatless chicken wings in a plethora of flavors. Other dishes include shrimp po’ boy sandwich, a southern barbecue platter, hot dogs, stir-fry and more. Remember, it’s all vegan. 2659 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-419-4899
Tortillería Mexicana. Mexican If you’re looking for a taco that goes beyond ground beef and toppings? Not only will they supply you with fresh, unique tacos, but the corn tortillas are made from scratch daily. Who does that? 1614 E. Sample Rd., 954-943-0057
