Openings

Young James Beard Rising Star chef John Suley has started down the restaurant empire road, opening Joley (a spin-off of his Café Joley, in Boca Raton), in South Beach’s The Astor hotel. The dramatically re-designed indoor/outdoor space was formerly occupied by the much-hyped but short-lived Johnny V South Beach. Much of Suley’s very personal contemporary cuisine demonstrates definitive global influences, from regions ranging from Italy and France (foie gras with fig/port wine chutney; wild mushroom risotto with mascarpone and roast garlic) to the Middle and Far East (lamb four ways—almond-crusted chop, crisp shank, roast leg, and merguez sausage—with chickpea puree and cumin-mint jus; grilled Tasmanean sea trout with soba noodles and edamame, in ginger broth). But those who just want an all-American cowboy rib eye steak can get one, too. Joley, 956 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; 305-534-3343.

Adding a spark of color to the staid gray Brickell banking/business district are the silver curtains, multi-hewed handblown glass bubbles (by Norwegian artist Terje Lundaas), and rose-petal martinis at newly-opened Andu. The glam eatery has a menu masterminded by consulting chef Jason McClain and executed by executive chef Nate Barton (McClain’s former sous chef at Nikki Beach and 8 1/2). As at 8 1/2, fare is mostly Mediterranean-influenced—inventive, rather than traditional, dishes like Moroccan-flavored fried calamari, subtly spiced strips of squid coated in ultra-crisp, tissue-thin batter, with broccoli rabe and Meyer lemon butter, or a salt cod brandade, with preserved lemon, that fuses Spanish and North African flavors. 141 SW 7th St., Miami; 786-871-7005.

Most chefs work for a decade or more in others’ restaurants before daring to buy and run their own place, but chefs/spouses Juan Mario Maza and Vani Maharaj jumped in with both feet. After studying culinary arts at Johnson & Wales, the young marrieds worked at Miami star chef Michelle Bernstein’s Michy’s (Maza as a prep cook, Maharaj making salads), for barely a year before opening new Alta Cocina. Though the eatery’s name means “haute cuisine,” best bets on the global fusion menu are the casual dishes that stay closest to home (or, rather, the chefs’ Caribbean—and Bernsteinean—culinary roots): light bacalao fritters with tangy/sweet tamarind sauce; zesty Trinidad-style curried chicken accompanied by steaming West Indian roti bread; and very tasty salads.  

At the Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club in Aventura, celebrity chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak opened at the end of December, marking the first time that a dining venue at the exclusive private resort has been open to the general public. And so far, the general public has descended like locusts to scarf Mina signature dishes like an elegant deconstructed lobster pot pie; sides such as European-style frites (deep-fried in duck fat so they’re crisp on the outside and soft within), accompanied by several dipping sauces; and even, sometimes, steak. Though Mina remains San Francisco-based (when he isn’t off surveying other restaurants in his growing mini-empire), the executive chef in the kitchen is Andrew Rothschild, locally renowned for his restorative stint at Miami Beach’s landmark steakhouse The Forge. Bourbon Steak, 19999 West Country Club Dr., Aventura, 786-279-0658.

A much anticipated outpost of locally-favored hot dog emporium Dogma Grill has opened in North Miami, in a 1950s building that, prior to renovation, housed the authentic Mexican eatery Burrito Grill. Though the new modern/retro venue (seating 15 inside, 25 outside) is considerably fancier-looking than the original Biscayne Boulevard shack in Miami’s Upper East Side, the menu features the same fresh-off-the-grill (never heat-lamped) all-beef, turkey, and tofu franks—with, most vital, the same imaginative array of regionally and internationally-inspired toppings. But in recognition of its artsy neighborhood (home to Miami’s Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as numerous galleries), the new grill has added several items. These include the Frank Stellar, a melted Swiss-lined bun framing a butterflied hot dog “canvas” decorated, in Frank Stella-like abstract minimalist style, with a bold block of pickle and concise condiment stripes. Dogma Grill, 899 NE 125th St., North Miami, 305-893-6462.

For gourmet fast food aficionados who favor burgers over dogs, a branch of Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries–the East Coast’s answer to the West Coast’s legendary In-N-Out Burger–has opened in The Shops at Midtown Miami. The bill of fare, similar in its calorically sinful simplicity to In-N-Out’s, is pretty much summarized in the eatery’s name, except that Five Guys also offers a kosher hot dog and a veggie sandwich. The freshly-made burgers (all cooked well-done, but juicy) come with choice of 15 free toppings/sauces; the freshly-made fries (regular or spicy Cajun-style) are hand-cut from sourced potatoes; and, though cooking-upon-order means the fast food doesn’t come as quickly as at McWendyKing, there are free peanuts to munch while you wait. Five Guys Burger and Fries, 3401 North Miami Ave., Suite 124, Miami, 305-571-8345.

At old-timey Allen’s Drug Store, the longtime soda fountain/diner tenant Picnics (now relocated father west on Coral Way) has just been replaced by a spin-off of midtown Miami’s S & S Diner, a renowned Art Deco-era landmark that’s long been a favored film location. The equally retro-looking southern S & S is the original diner’s first expansion since opening in 1938, and has one advantage over its tiny, single-countered parent eatery: table seating. S & S Diner at Allen’s Drugs, 4000 Red Rd., Coral Gables, 305-668-2526.

In downtown Miami’s Brickell financial district—once boring to any but bankers, now an exploding locale for upscale destination dining spots—Andu, an indoor/outdoor eatery whose look is a mix of Sobe’s casual designer-chic and the Gables’ more formal upscale Latin flash, has opened. Though the food’s stated mainly Mediterranean orientation would not normally inspire much beyond yawns in a town glutted with the genre, the menu was masterminded by chef Jason McClain, of much-praised and much-missed global hotspot 8 1/2 (which folded abruptly last September). Further, hot rising young (26) chef Nate Martin, McClain’s sous chef at 8 1/2, is top toque in Andu’s kitchen. The menu includes light bites like pesto-marinated swordfish panini, and similarly atypical substantial fare that is technically, in the food world, referred to as “not the usual stuff”. Andu, 141 SW 7th St., Miami, 786-871-7005.

So much for the short-lived David Bouley Evolution. David Bouley at South Beach is coming to town. According to Mr. Bouley, a new ownership group has taken over, and the renamed restaurant is expected to open soon. The menu will be similar to that of Upstairs at Bouley Bakery in New York, which features an eclectic menu of smaller plates from sushi offerings to burgers and Japanese-influenced fish dishes. David Bouley at South Beach, 1669 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-604-6090.

All hail The Dubliner, an Irish pub from Palm Beach restaurateurs Rodney Mayo and Scott Frielich, who also own Howley's Diner, Respectable Street Cafe in West Palm Beach and Dada in Delray Beach. Chef Bruce Feingold will be cooking up the classics—shepherd's pie, lamb stew, house-brined beef with cabbage, fish and chips. And the not-so: a Guinness-spiked fondue, for example. Look for another Dubliner in Boca later this winter. The Dubliner, 2000 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561-630-0590.

Blue Oyster Grill, a seafood restaurant, is the latest eatery for Oggi Caffe and Caffe Da Vinci partners Alex Portela and Eloy Roy. Chef Minor G. Vargas, formerly of Joe Allen, ushers in such specialties as seaweed spaghettini with Maine lobster chunks, fennel, Pernod and creamy lobster sauce. Blue Oyster Grill, 2286 NE 123rd St., North Miami, 305-982-8000.

Table 8 South Beach, with celebrity chef Govind Armstrong from Table 8 in Los Angeles, debuted in late December at The Regent South Beach, the newly built luxury hotel. Can you say room service? Partner/executive chef Armstrong can, only here it’s called 24 hour in-suite dining. With the LA restaurant closing for renovation, we can expect the chef to be exclusively ours for a while. That should make for some chow—or at least some eye candy—that’s actually worth the hype. Table 8 South Beach, 1458 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, 305-672-4554.

La Goulue Christian Delouvrier opened late October in Bal Harbour Shops. This Parisian-style bistro, with renowned chef-partner Delouvrier at the helm, is a bit more casual than the upscale NYC establishment, but promises to be no less high-end when it comes to the regional French cuisine. Another location will open in Boca Raton in 2007. La Goulue Christian Delouvrier, Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour, 305-865-2181, www.lagouluebalharbour.com.

Michael's Genuine Food & Drink, from hometown fave chef Michael Schwartz (ex-afterglo) and wife Tamara, is set to debut this February in the Design District. This will be the first place he’s owned since his venerable Nemo days, with plenty of his past signatures beckoning back old customers and new items, plated in four differently sized portions (small, medium, large and extra-large) attracting the uninitiated. Longtime friend and Au Bon Climat winemaker Jim Clendenen is a partner. Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, 130 N.E. 40th St., Miami.

Vita Restaurant has re-opened its outdoor garden space as the 120-seat Vita Garden. Owner Roberto Caan wants to keep things “fresh and hip,” with a new glass bar, additional lighting and plenty of flower beds and plants. Caan is also planning a new concept for the indoor space in 2007. Vita Garden Restaurant, 1906 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-538-7855.

Big Time Restaurant Group returns to Clematis Street, one of its first haunts, with a new venue: Nobles. The bar, an up-market 3,500-square-footery that aligns closely with other concepts City Cellar, City Oyster, City Kitchen and the original Big City Tavern, features live music. Nobles, 213 Clematis St., West Palm Beach, 561-651-1075.

Asia goes royal with Zensai Asian Grill, a pan-Asian place that offers a multitude of Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. You’ll have to go west for it, though, not east. Zensai Asian Grill, 10223 Okeechobee Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, 561-795-8882.

Fah Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar is a true third child, combining the best of older siblings Sushi Thai in Boca Raton and Lemongrass Asian Bistro in Delray Beach. Fah Asian Bistro, Boca Valley Shopping Plaza, 7461 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, 561-241-0400.

The third time is really not that charming: OLA Miami, which started life on Biscayne Boulevard before transferring to the Savoy Hotel, has re-opened in its third location as of November 1. Now at The Sanctuary in the former Sugo space, the indoor/outdoor 80-seat restaurant, including the bar and lounge area, offers roof top dining for private parties. Executive chef Jose Luis Flores, who is also heads up Ola Steak & Tapas in Coral Gables, has added more ceviches and smaller plates, served family-style. OLA Miami, The Sanctuary Hotel, 1745 James Ave, Miami Beach, 305-695-9125.

Mari Nalli Gourmet Quesadillas, a 50-seat indoor/outdoor restaurant that operates on the options-are-everything principle, has opened. The self-service eatery offers 24 globally-inspired versions of homemade flour quesadillas, each ready in 90 seconds from a turbo convection oven. Even a grand caffe mocha non-fat no-whip coffee from Starbucks takes longer than that. Mari Nalli Gourmet Quesadilla, 2271 Ponce Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-648-0688.

Ideas, a modern yet classic Spanish restaurant, has turned on the Coconut Grove culinary community like a lightbulb. The 60-seat restaurant is owned by Jose Luis Esteve and presents chef Alvaro Beade, a native of Valladolid, Spain, who marries contemporary gastronomic techniques and technology with authentic and fresh ingredients to create intensely flavored dishes that are both innovative and traditional. Ideas Restaurant, 2833 Bird Rd., Coconut Grove, 305-567-9074.

Cielo Garden & Supperclub has won the heart of Coconut Grove back from teenage domination with the latest in Nuevo Latino cuisine, cocktails and Copacabana-style entertainment. The venue boasts a seductive outdoor garden, wine and cigar lockers, a private chef’s table with special wine pairing options, a built-in entertainment stage, signature bar, custom-created bone-hued leather lounge areas, brushed metal and honey colored wood finishes and 50” plasma TVs equipped for corporate presentations. Cielo Garden & Supperclub, 3390 Mary St., Streets of Mayfair, Coconut Grove, 305-446-9060, www.Cielorestaurant.com.

Miami’s fine cuisine scene will evolve even further with the opening of David Bouley Evolution in December. Expect the best of French and Japanese fusion cuisine. David Bouley Evolution, 1669 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.

Hobo’s Fish Joint, which went bankrupt two years ago at its Coral Springs location, has re-opened in Deerfield Beach. Chef-proprietor Steven LaBiner is presenting the same great menu that won kudos from area critics, plus some new dishes. Hobo’s Fish Joint, 246 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, 954-571-9700.

Sublime, the vegan haven that was damaged by the 2005 series of hurricanes, has re-opened with a fresh outlook and a sophisticated list of globally inspired “green” fare. Sublime, 1431 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, 954-615-1431, www.sublimeveg.com.

The Podoni family makes it easy to say mangia: The second U.S. location of their Palladio Italian Gourmet Market, featuring 100 international cheeses, 800 vintages of wine and 65 prepared dishes every day, is debuting in North Miami Beach on Biscayne Blvd.

The fish has left the marina: Tuna’s Garden Grille, a remake of Tuna’s Seafood Grille of Aventura, has opened in the Greynolds Village & Shoppes. The 300-seat restaurant relocated after more than two decades in its waterside location. Tuna’s Garden Grille, 17850 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami Beach.

Restaurateur Paolo Della Puppa brings Milan to Merrick Park with his new Via Quadronno, offering homemade pastas, tartina, panini, espresso and 28 flavors of authentic gelato. Via Quadronno, Village of Merrick Park, 320 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables, 305-476-1160.

Et voilá: Brasserie La Cigale has been reborn as just plain La Cigale. Restaurateur Francis Touboul moved his much-loved establishment to a new location just South of Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach, taking the opportunity to revamp its image as well in terms of both menu and decor. Chef Farid Oualidi, a Moroccan native, roams France, Spain, Italy and Africa for “Med-regional” fare such as pan-seared branzino with braised fennel, dried Roma tomatoes and black olive tapenade or veal tenderloin wrapped in prosciutto. La Cigale, 253 Southeast Fifth Ave., Delray Beach, 561-276-6453.

Dinner and dancing are the ticket at the new Atrium Supper Club in Boca Raton. Proprietor David Miles, ex-manager of London's Hippodrome and a former executive chef himself, has hired Wolfgang Puck vet Stuart Hursch and Manhattan’s River Café-trained Brian Smith to control the direction of the menu. Watch for plenty of cuts of meat, including Kobe beef filet, paired with compound butter, and a wine program that features 24 vintages by the glass. Atrium Supper Club, 301 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, 561-995-9090.

Where, oh where, has Christina Wan gone, you ask? The short answer: Fort Lauderdale. No longer in the Hollywood location where she made her name, the restaurateur has opened a new, more sophisticated version of her popular Chinese spot. The reasonable wine list is another unexpected bonus. Christina Wan's, 664 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, 954-527-0228.

All white in décor elements and clean-lined in cuisine as well, the Sushi House is a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine, put together by restaurateur Mark Koyfman and Chef Enrique Jasso. A veteran of Su Casa of Tokyo in Chicago, co-owner Jasso and co- executive chef Jesus Comeras’ “modern sushi” menu allows for the introduction of global influence—think jalapaños in some of the sushi rolls—and terrific wine pairings with menu specialties, such as Valley of the Moon pinot blanc with the house signature spicy octopus tail. Sushi House, 15911 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach, 305-947-6002.

For a bit of the Brit combined with a dash of South Beach, stop in at The Betsy Bistro and Tea Room at The Betsy Ross Hotel for traditional cream tea, high tea or a light lunch. Designed by Shiraz FL caterers, the menu offers the classic cucumber sandwiches and scones with Devonshire clotted cream as well as heartier bites such as mini burgers and coconut-crusted filet of salmon stuffed with raison-mango chutney. Too hot for a cuppa English breakfast? Sip on the Mar-Tea-Ni cocktail instead. The Betsy Bistro and Tea Room, 1440 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, 305-531-3934, ext. 356.

Wine bars rage on: The new D’Vino, meaning either “divine” or “from the wine,” depending on your interpretation, has launched in Coral Gables. The 56-seatery, which presents 40 small-batch wines by the glass and a menu of small plates, also features a second-story boutique for tastings and seminars. D’Vino, 3143 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-443-8466.

8 ½ , however, was given its moniker because of its number. Located at 821 Washington Avenue at the newly renovated Art Deco Hotel Clinton, the spot replaces Aïgo and, before that, Pao. Here’s hoping Pearl and Shore Club alum Jason McClain and his partner, Westin and Hyatt veteran Kevin Boals, break the bad luck streak and succeed with such items as baked Cajun crab cakes with charred corn relish and key lime chipotle aioli or pan-roasted rock bass with artichokes, fingerling potatoes, chanterelle mushrooms and Manila clam broth. 8 ½, Hotel Clinton, 821 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 786-276-3850.

No, it wasn’t named for the address. Nor is FIFTY Restaurant & Lounge a fusion of ingredients or dishes, say executive chef Roly Cruz-Taura, his sous chefs Nestor Gomez and Augustin Toriz and pasty chef Carolina Romero. Rather, they call the fare Progressive American Cuisine, defining it as “a combination of classic American fare presented in a contemporary style with dishes influenced by a variety of cultures and countries that have found their way onto the American table.” More important to note, perhaps, is that the launch date is late June. FIFTY Restaurant & Lounge, 444 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach.

Absinthe has opened in the Boca Center adjacent to the Boca Raton Marriott. Chef Esteban Arguedas’ menu features brasserie fare with specialties like the roasted chicken and mizuna salad with pomegranate-sweet chili vinaigrette, polenta-crusted diver scallops and rotisserie du jour. For dessert, try the brandy braised pineapple with curried ice cream. Design elements pay tribute to the storied liquer of its namesake. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Absinthe, 5150 Town Center Cir., Boca Raton, 561-620-3745, www.absintheboca.com.

Just in time for summer, an al fresco version of the Oakwood Grill steakhouse has debuted in Palm Beach Gardens. Owner John Spoto has also initiated a lighter, more family-friendly menu offering moderately priced items such as ribs, burgers and freshly grilled fish. 4610 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561-776-5778, www.oakwoodgrill.com.

Cornwall meets Jupiter Farms with the Queen Mary British Pub. Its three native Birmingham owners, Deborah Walker and her sister and brother-in-law Vanessa and Neil Archer, are showcasing their Cornish grandmum's recipes, including the famous pasties. 16891 Jupiter Farms Road, Jupiter, 561-747-6317.

Il Cioppino has taken over the Il Trullo space in Lantana. Chef-owner Gregorio Filipo is an ex-toque of Renato's in Stuart and Carmine's Trattoria in Palm Beach Gardens. He and wife Rosa provide an upscale Mediterranean menu that highlights fish as well as the seafood dish for which the restaurant is named. 210 E. Ocean Ave., Lantana, 561-588-1420.

Former Palm Beach Bice vets Francesco Blanco, a maître d’, and chef Fabrizio Giorgi have opened Café Sapori in the old Jo’s space in West Palm Beach. The fare maintains an Italian focus but is occasionally accented with other ethnicities, including “Spanish Japanese.” Yes, it seems even Italian restaurants can’t escape the tapas and sushi trend. 205 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-805-7313.

From the Chicago Art Museum to the center of plastic surgery: The caterer for the former now is the restaurateur in the latter at Polo101, a tiny spot that somehow manages to shout its thoroughbred bloodlines. 5030 Champion Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-997-2922.

Chef Jorge Varona, ex-Mark’s South Beach, Pacific Time and Chispa, and brother Jean-Paul, ex-Biltmore Hotel and Touch, have joined forces to open The Varona Boulevard in Hollywood. Brotherly love is expressed in such items as guava-glazed salmon, mojo-marinated mahi-mahi and chili-rubbed flank steak. 1926 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 954-272-6836.

Because we need more pasta filling out our bikinis, Il Mulino premiers in Sunny Isles Beach in May. The Abruzzi-inspired menu features its signature items, including spaghettini Bolognese, rack of lamb, the legendary langoustines and the complimentary antipasto tasting comprising soppresatta, bruschetta, fried zucchini and garlic-cheese bread sticks that begins all dinners. Reservations can be made by calling 305-466-9191 beginning the end of April 2006. 17780 Collins Avenue, Sunny Isles Beach, 305-918-8000.

VINO Miami, a wine bar with a retail component, has materialized in South Beach, much to the delight of the adults who sometimes still brave the club-heavy social scene. With more than 400 boutique labels by the bottle and 50 by the glass, the spot features wine happy hours, tastings and other grape-related events. 1601 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 786-207-8466, www.vinomiami.com.

Palm Beach Gardens just keeps growing. But with the addition of The Strip House this April, it’ll also be losing—some of that steadfast Palm Beach-style staidness. With scarlet-hued walls, pink lighting and photos of vintage burlesque stars, the tongue-in-cheek steakhouse, the fourth location in the metropolitan New York chain, pays homage to healthy meat and robust appetites. Just don’t expect live entertainment à la Rachel’s Steak House and Gentlemen’s Club. Downtown at the Gardens, 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Palm Beach Gardens, 561-296-4900.

Absinthe, a chicly designed and, we can only hope, aptly named restaurant and bar, opened in the Boca Center. The 240-seat space features the fare of Costa Rican native Esteban Arguedas, who takes his influences from Asia, Europe and Latin America. 5150 Town Center Circle in Boca Raton, 561-620-3754, www.absintheboca.com.

Do look twice: Quattro Gastronomia Italiana, featuring the talents of Nicola and Fabrizio Carro, twin chefs hailing from the Piemonte region of Italy, will open in April. Owners Karim Masri (of Hotel Astor/Astor Place) and Nicola Siervo (Joia), who currently co-own Mynt, along with partners Nicola Schon and ex-Heat player Rony Seikaly, promise monthly tasting menus, matched by an all-Italian wine list selected by Schon, who is also a vintner. 1014 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, 305-531-4833.

And look twice again: Michy’s in Miami’s Upper East Side has opened, as has Social Miami at Sagamore Hotel on South Beach. What do they have in common? Chef Michelle Bernstein, who is co-proprietor of Michy’s with local restaurateur Steven Perricone, and chef-consultant for restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow’s Social in both Miami and Hollywood. Chances of finding her in person are better at the 50-seat Michy’s, for the record. Michy’s, 6927 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-759-2001; Social Miami, Sagamore Hotel, 1671 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-594-3344, www.sagamorehotel.com.

So you don’t know what a firkin is. Join the club and find out at the Firkin & Friar Pub, located where the brilliantly failed Don Quixote tilted at windmills, while you nosh on typical Brit pub fare such as bangers and mash and fish and chips. Draw a pint or two and get a clue. Still haven’t got it? Okay, we’ll tell you. A firkin is a small wooden barrel. See? Now get your mind out of the gutter and back to the dart board. 3148 Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove, 305-443-2774, www.firkinpubs.com.

And now for something not completely but at least a little refreshingly different: Rice House of Kabob, a quick-service (as opposed to fast-food) Persian place, offers deceptively simple kebabs on rice pilaf speckled with barberries and saffron (or lima beans and dill or lentils and raisins). Highly charged with marinated, char-grilled flavor, the beef, chicken and swordfish skewered chunks are also delicious stuffed into just-baked tandoori bread and laced with cucumber-yogurt sauce. 1318 Alton Rd., Miami Beach, 305-531-0332.

The Yard House, as in that’s how we measure our beer, has debuted at Downtown at the Gardens. The restaurant offers more than 100 items as well as a prix-fixe children’s menu and daily late-night dining, with the American Fusion fare courtesy of executive chef and partner Carlito Jocson. With a nod to his Filipino heritage, many of chef Jocson’s dishes feature flavors of the Pacific Rim paired with more traditional fare, from open-ended moo shu eggrolls to turkey pot pie. But those stats are nothing compared to the brewski’s: the glass-enclosed keg room will house as much as 200 kegs and some 1,000 gallons of beer at any given time; more than five miles of steel tubing stretches from the keg room to the signature island bar; and a fleet of 130 handles highlight regionally produced brews. 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens, Palm Beach Gardens, 561-691-6901.

The aptly named Cottage, newly opened in Lake Worth, serves an ever-in-flux menu of globally inspired tapas and boasts a pretty patio for al fresco munching. 522 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth, 561-586-0080.

Santo, a Mexican haute cuisine venue, has opened on Lincoln Road. Run by a former principal of the erstwhile Rumi, the restaurant features an after-hours nightclub. But foodies will want to go for the whole fish, split in half and cooked in a wire basket to succulent perfection. 430 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, 305-532-2882, info@santomiamibeach.com, www.santomiamibeach.com.

Houston’s might want to watch its very popular Gables backside: The 7,000-square-foot Max’s Grille, which marks creative comfort cuisine king Dennis Max’s return to Miami environs, has debuted with a lavish party. Executive chef Patrick Broadhead is executive chef; John Belleme oversees culinary operations. 2 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, 305-567-2600.

And then there’s City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill, also set to give nearby Houston’s a competitor for happy hour and Fleming’s a run for its vino. From the Big Time folks who brought South Florida Big City Tavern and City Oyster, City Cellar may offer a pat formula, but the 500-bottle wine selection more than compensates. 45 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables.

The Atrium Supper Club, whose Art Deco style channels the Copacobana, is set to open in Boca Raton, Florida, on February 10, 2006. Lunch will be served as the Atrium's Sidewalk Café, and live jazz, blues and swing music will be featured nightly. 301 Yamato Rd., Boca Raton, 561-995-9090.

Peek in at the Spy Lounge and Brasserie, open mid-January in The Catalina Hotel and Beach Club, and you’ll probably want to stay with your eyes wide open. The French-based menu—rack of lamb, short ribs, salmon over ratatouille with a warm balsamic dressing—is enticing for this time of year. 1756 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-761-9564, www.thespylounge.com.

Driving the nail into the billboard advertising the comeback of Ocean Drive: LA’s celeb chef Govind Armstrong anticipates opening Table 8 South Beach in the new Regent Hotel in late February or early March. Our guess is that he’s aiming to get it up and running just before the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (Feb. 24-26, 2006), in which he’s participating as co-host of the American Express Grand Tasting. The Regent Hotel, 1458 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, 305-695-4114, www.table8southbeach.com.

Hollywood’s Argentango has indeed diversified as promised, but not in the Biscayne Boulevard spot where it’s had a banner up for the past two years (and which the website estimated would debut in fall 2005). Instead, the popular Argentine steakhouse has opened doors—and more sophisticated ones they are, too—in Coral Gables. 1930 Ponce de Leon, Coral Gables, 305-461-6488, www.argentangogrill.com.

Brothers Alex and Victor Lopez recently launched AV Grill and Wine Bar in North Miami Beach, a 34-seatery that is already running Spanish wine theme dinners and is planning more. Pretty ambitious for a strip-mall locale, but then you can’t get anywhere without guts in this town—and, come to think of it, a lot of wine. 3055 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach, 305-945-7576.

Jay Simpson and Cindy White obviously have a penchant for puns as well as Pinot. Their wine shop and bar, The Grape Escape, opened in the Dolce Vita spot in downtown Lake Worth. 9 N "J" St., Lake Worth, 561-493-3330.

Uber-banker Joe Castro works his prestigious day job, then slips into something a little more comfortable at night—the kitchen of his new restaurant, Vida! Bistro & Wine Bar. The forty-seat eatery, which he runs with wife Maria, offers only prix-fixe meals (three-course for $40, five-course for $65 and seven-course for $75), and the dishes depend on what Joe feels like making. Don’t fret—he usually feels like making at least one dish with foie gras, another with caviar and a third with venison, Wagyu beef, Scottish salmon, duck breast or whatever luxe ingredient comes his way. 1915 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, 305-443-8863, www.vidabistro.com.

Former Ortanique on the Mile GM Michael Shikany has become a competitor. He’s now just a few blocks away, at the helm of the new La Cofradia. Billed as Mediterranean with Peruvian influences—Mediterruvian? Perranean?—the menu promises something just a little bit different. Witness the house risotto, made with lobster and aji Amarillo chile pepper sauce. 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables.

OLA on Ocean, Douglas Rodriguez’s restaurant, relocated this past summer from Biscayne Boulevard, opened with a slightly delayed (thanks to Wilma) splash: El Diamante del Cielo tequila, a hand-crafted spirit aged to its legal potential, sponsored the launch with samples of its products, hostesses dressed in custom Cielo-inspired gowns and a live artist painting bottles for lucky patrons to take home. No doubt the setting for OLA will prove more hospitable than the construction-ridden Boulevard, but we could have done without the manufactured “cool” factor—party guests were forced to wait in line behind a velvet rope even though the multi-room restaurant was barely filled. And be forewarned: If the SoBe scene makes you queasy, you should note that, per OpenTable.com, OLA is “available for private parties, photo shoots and film production.” OLA on Ocean, 455 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, 305-695-9125, www.olamiami.com.

Gables Diner, watch out: The king of upscale comfort food, Dennis Max, returns to Miami with a new Max’s Grille, to launch any minute now (official projection is the end of January) in Coral Gables. 2 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, 305-567-2000, www.maxsgrille.com.

Meanwhile, 510 Ocean debuted catty-corner right before the hurricane on the ground floor of the boutique Bentley Hotel. Press info has it that the place is already attracting music celebs of the highest order (read: Madonna). And admittedly, owners Julie Grimes and Bryan Davis do have a supper-club vibe going on, reminiscent of the early Nineties. There’s even a back garden in which to enjoy exec chef Cory “Big Tex” Smith’s global take on cuisine: beef tenderloin skewer with gorgonzola crust and chimichurri relish and blackened mahi-mahi with coconut sweet potato purée and pineapple-rum pico de gallo, to offer two examples. 510 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, 305-531-1788.

Miamians think they have a lock on Cuban restaurants. Bella Cuba tells us to guess again—Cuban native chef-proprietor Juan Carlos Jimenez and his Ukrain-born wife, Larisa, first opened in Dublin, Ireland, eleven years ago. Even more compelling a reason, aside from mojo-marinated pork and coconut-crusted red snapper, to visit? The 110-bottle wine list. 1659 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-672-7466, www.bella-cuba.com.

Wine is a must-quaff at the newly opened Clarke’s, an insider’s joint where the South Beach elite hang out when they need a break from being ultra-cool in front of eye-spying tourists. Essentially an upscale Irish pub with upscale American and Continental influences thrown in from chef Seth Lowenstein—the menu ranges from fish and chips to seared sea scallops—it’s also something of a wine bar, proprietor Laura Cullen having been a local liquor rep for many years. She knows her stuff, and it’s reflected in the all-too-interesting wine list. Pink Pinot Grigio, anyone? Really, it’s quite dry and delicious. Just ask the other wine salespeople, who gather at the mahogany bar after (or perhaps during?) their shifts. 840 1st St., Miami Beach, 305-538-9885, www.clarkesmiamibeach.com.

Bless Mr. Chu’s—er, make that Japanese owner Toni Takarada, who formerly ran Thai Toni’s in this spot—for bringing fine Chinese dining back to the beach. Not only do servers dish out the Hong Kong-style cuisine at this recently revamped restaurant, designed rather like a banquet room, they argue over who’s going to do it. Now if they’d only add dim sum to the repertoire, we’d all be happily plump as pork buns. 890 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-538-8424.

Fratelli La Bufala brings a new pizza concept to Miami: worship of the water buffalo. The Italy-based chain, with expat locations in England and South American, uses only bufala cheeses, imported from Italy, for its wood-oven fired pizzas. Good antipasti and numerous pasta dishes round out the menu, with all meat sourced from water buffalo—the only type of meat served—raised by local Seminole Indians. That’s some spicy meatball. 437 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-532-0700.

If you’ve been missing Vino since it disappeared from the Coconut Grove scene, dry those crocodile tears. Owners Michael Brooks and Gigi Olah have relocated into a chic spot on one of South Beach’s main drags. Minimalist décor, boutique wines and la-di-da nibbles including caviar, foie gras, smoked salmon and imported meats and cheeses. Now that’s what we call happy hour! In the words of Lionel Richie, “nnhh! all night long.” 1601 Washington Pl., Ste. 110, Miami Beach, 305-532-8466.

The DiLido Beach Club at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is now open for lunch and dinner every evening until 10 p.m. What could be more relaxing than nibbling on chef Bernardo Espinel’s Mediterranean-inspired menu, including tapas, sandwiches, salads and entrées after a day of sun and bikinis, South Beach-style? Well, maybe valet parking, which is complimentary when visiting the restaurants or lounges. The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, One Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, 786-276-4000.

Ernie’s is the latest from erstwhile Pearl (and other South Beach hot spots) chef Frank Jeannetti and wife Sandra-Leyva Jeannetti. The pair named the restaurant for her father, a food aficionado. The pair also do catering in the sixty-seat, loft-style restaurant or 300-person on-site ballrooms, as well as in venues of your choice. So get your quince on. The Imperial House, 5225 Collins Ave., 305-282-6740, catering@jeannetti.com, www.jeannetti.com.

Because we need more sushi-Thai restaurants like a pomegranate does seeds, Asia Bay Bistro & Sushi Bar has debuted in Bay Harbor Islands. Actually, it does bring diversity to the limited neighborhood, which boasts one modest French bistro, a more upscale Italian eatery and an expensive steak house. No doubt Islanders are supine as sashimi with relief. 1007 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands, 305-861-2222.

Parioli Café has opened to terrific buzz, the kind not heard about an Italian restaurant since the long-ago debuts of Osteria del Teatro and Escopazzo. Imported Mediterranean fish—branzino and orata, for starters—and true-to-roots ingredients are flown in. With a seaside location and Italian natives owning and staffing the place, Parioli is authentic, not faux-thentic. 7300 Ocean Terr., Miami Beach, 305-865-4026.

Louie’s Brick Oven, opened in October by Lou and Debbie DiBono (formerly of China Grill and Suva in Miami Beach) and executive chef Jamie Fisher (formerly of Red Square-Miami) is perfuming the neighborhood. And not just with grilled vegetable, smoked salmon or meatball pizzas either. The coal- and wood-fired oven turns out such items as chicken wings, baby back ribs, even a whole butterflied trout. 15979 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach, 305-948-3330.

Formerly Flora’s, EastSide Pizza opened on the end of the 79th Street Causeway (or the beginning, depending on your direction). In addition to “cheesy” pizza names—“Totally a California Delight,” for instance, comprises goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, and the “Great White Hope” is made without tomato sauce—the restaurant, which features al fresco dining, offers the panzerotti, a take on calzone. 731 NE 79th St., Miami, 305-758-5351.

TacoMax’s first location might seem modest, but owner Joel Laiter has a grand scheme—he’s already got plans in the works for locations in Calle Ocho, Dania Beach and South Beach. And with Mexican native Arturo Gonzalez, the former opening chef at Jalapeno Jax, at his side, it just might be feasible. Gonzalez has got a completely different mindset than his competitors, as evidenced by his pork rind, foie gras and blood sausage soft corn tacos, among other more traditional offerings, including his veg-friendly beans and chicken marinated for three days in citrus juice. 7931 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-759-7774.

Graziano's in the Gables, sibling to Graziano's Parrilla Argentina, the Argentine steakhouse on Bird Road and 92nd St. (305-223-4933), has opened where Giacosa used to ply its trade. Owner Leo Graziano’s signature 1,000+ wine list alone commands a visit. Graziano's in the Gables, 394 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, 305-774-3599.

Proprietor Sandra Stefani has opened a new wine room in the back of her Casa Toscana. With fourteen seats indoor and sixteen in the garden, it’s as Lilliputian as the Tuscan restaurant itself, but as they say, size doesn’t matter. She’s stocked it with vintages from boutique wineries and cult bottles from Spain, Italy and South America, and she is serving them by the glass for $5 or by the bottle close to retail. Casa Toscana, 7001 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-758-3353.

Because sometimes you just want a beer while you’re playing after sunset with glow-in-the-dark golf balls, Toby’s Sports Bar & Grill opened at the Palmetto Golf Course in Kendall. A veteran of entertainment venues including Miami MetroZoo and the Orange Bowl, Toby’s offers burgers, dogs, wings, sandwiches, salads, nibbles and signature frozen lemonade. Happy hour is daily, as is breakfast, lunch and dinner. Toby’s Sports Bar & Grill, 9300 SW 152nd St., Miami, 305-254-4653.

It’s all in the name—and the neighborhood: Tarpon Bend Food & Tackle, also located in Fort Lauderdale and Weston, has launched in Coral Gables. Like the location in Weston, though, the name has been tweaked to Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill. Co-founder Tim Petrillo says, "I think of every one of our Tarpon Bends like children in a family—each has a different personality and quirks that make them unique and playful.” Of course the new title could also be due to the fact that guests can shoot oysters, enjoy a ceviche trilogy and choose from a large assortment of local seafood as well as the Fed Ex’ed goods from seaports all over the world. Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill, Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 305-444-3210, www.tarponbend.com.

For a little culture with your café, check out Tocororo Galeria-Café. Owners Olga Deulofeu, a Cuban-born artist, writer and poet, and Jules Mendel, also an artist, have modeled their spot after the Sixties avant-garde coffeehouses, with a menu that would make a Cuban cafeteria proud, including sandwiches named for the provinces on the mother island. Expect live, scheduled and impromptu entertainment ranging from music to poetry readings. Tocororo Galeria-Café, 1133 71st St., Miami Beach, 305-865-0421.

The Corner Muse Café (210 NE 18th St., Miami, 305-808-7977) is located within a secondhand goods store called Shoppie Seconds. This place was formerly the Florida Grand Opera House—quite a change in concept.

The Restaurant at The Setai (2001 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-520-6000, expects to open softly in early August. The menu will deliver recipes from Southeast Asian cultures, peppered with some Western influence.

Tantra restaurant and lounge owners Dr. Tim Hogle and his wife Irina Korneeva clearly want you to have that glow. That’s why their newest restaurant, afterglo, is set to debut in August in the original Mezzanotte space. Executive chef Michael Schwartz’s (ex-Nemo) “Beauty Cuisine” is designed not only to be delicious but to impart all the health and nutritional benefits necessary for the inner supermodel in all of us. afterglo, 1200 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-695-1717.

Replacing Mayfair Grill in the Mayfair Hotel & Spa (yes, it’s now a spa) will be Ginger Grove Restaurant, set to debut in September (3000 Florida Ave., Coconut Grove). Executive chef Christian Plotczyk was previously executive chef at China Grill in Miami Beach.

Vita (1906 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-538-7855, www.vita-restaurant.com) has re-opened in South Beach.

Anastasia is not a Disney movie. Or is she? The effusive artist who goes by “Anastasia the Great” has finally opened her long-promised Anastasia Art Café: Ristorante, Enoteca and Art & Fashion Club—where “art meets cuisine” and you “dine like a diva.” Anastasia Art Café, 427 Jefferson Ave., Miami Beach, 305-531-0770, www.anastasiaartcafe.com.

The aptly named Boulevard Bistro has taken over where Café 71 left off. Offering “casual neighborhood food” to the tune of wraps, paninis, grilled main plates and gourmet comfort food entrées, as well as daily breakfast and Saturday brunch, the venue this time around might be something to hum, if not sing, about. Boulevard Bistro, 7100 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-762-7600.

Cantina Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne’s new causal dining venue, opened up—along with the heavens—on June 17. Fortunately, the tropical storms held off until most guests had sampled the café’s Cabo San Lucas-inspired fare. Miami’s first waterside Mexican restaurant, Cantina Beach offers an on-premise “tequilier” to educate the public palate about the best elixirs to mix and sip. Leave it to the Ritz. The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne, 455 Grand Bay Dr., Key Biscayne, 305-365-9575, www.ritzcarlton.com.

A second location of the highly regarded Biscayne Boulevard hot dog stand, Dogma, has brought its “frank philosophy,” along with its buns, to sexy South Beach. Dogma, 1500 Washington Ave., 305-695-8259.

Popular Prezzo re-opened after a hiatus as Prezzo Martini Bar & Grill. The retro ’80s head of roasted garlic is back with a vengeance, as is original chef Mennen Tekali, who has added more Middle Eastern influences to the Italian cuisine. Prezzo, Loehmann's Fashion Island, 18831 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, 305-931-5775.

Replacing Mezzanotte in Las Olas Riverfront, Fort Lauderdale’s waterside white elephant, is Metro Café. Word is that the redecorated space, serving casual family Italian food, is actually bringing in the peanuts. Metro Café, 300 SW First Ave., Las Olas Riverfront, Fort Lauderdale, 954-761-8787.

It’s more than a mouthful at Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill, especially if you follow up the seven ceviches-by-the-spoon and Latin American meat and fish dishes with dulce de leche cheesecake. A Mexican section on the menu reminds us that Central America is Latin, too. Good-value South American wines and beer are the standard. Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill, 3067 Grand Ave., Coral Gables, 305-444-0216.

Go with the Flow—sorry, it was too hard to resist—Flow Restaurant, that is. Located in the former Grillfish space in Coral Gables, Flow sounds like a similarly minded seafood restaurant. Don’t be surprised that the name more accurately recalls the very Cuban, 90 mile rafting experience. Typical Cuban items include pechuga de pollo à la plancha (pounded, grilled chicken) and camarones enchilados (shrimp in Creole sauce) with all the requisite black bean, rice and plantain accompaniments. Flow Restaurant, 2325 Galliano St., Coral Gables, 305-445-6411.

The Latin American takeover in south Miami-Dade continues with a nod to the gods at Ambrosia Peruvian Restaurant in Coconut Grove. Chef-owner Lucia Audibert, a Peruvian native whose mother ran a well-regarded eatery in Lima, presents a small menu that manages to adequately pay homage to the country’s Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, French, African and native Quechua Indian influences, with dishes ranging from cau cau (tripe, potato and chili pepper stew) to lomo (beef stir-fry). Ambrosia Peruvian Restaurant, 2779 Bird Ave., Coconut Grove, 305-529-0000.

Speaking of the culinary religion, Thira, subtitled “Taste of the Greek Islands,” also claims it serves “the food of the gods.” Find out if deities are among the clientele sampling the multitude of traditional dishes on the extensive, catch-all—including hummus—menu, courtesy of chef-owner Margarita Morfidis. Caffeine aficionados should note that the stone-ground Greek coffee here, including the yummy iced frappé, is very authentic. The menu advises ordering it: sketo (no sugar), metrio (medium-sweet) or glyko (tooth-jarringly sweet). Thira, 100 S. Federal Hwy., Hallandale, 954-454-9676, www.thirarestaurant.com.

The newest location of the 70-year-old, family-owned chain, founded by Beatrice Ruggeri, has opened under the auspices of her 32-year-old grandson, Raffaele Ruggeri. Located in the recently launched oceanfront resort hotel, Le Meridien Sunny Isles Beach, the restaurant features al fresco oceanfront seating (also a cooler indoor setting) and the cuisine of two Bice vets, chefs Matteo Migliorini and Marcello Rivetti. But it’s not all about Italy, oddly enough—Ruggeri has launched a "Mayan sushi bar," apparently in preparation for future sushi bars that Bice plans to open in French Polynesia later this year. Bice, Le Meridien Sunny Isles Beach, 18683 Collins Ave., North Miami Beach, 305-503-6000.

Jalapeño Jax looks like it has jump-started a Biscayne corridor location that had failed to ignite time and again. The freestanding building has always been a charmer no matter what its ethnicity—kosher Middle-Eastern Kemia, Japanese Sushi Box—but never a draw until now. Thanks to owner Buzzy Sklar (former Automatic Slim’s operator) and executive chef Arturo Gonzalez (ex-Rosa Mexicano in NYC), happy-hour crowds are thronging the outdoor picnic tables, and families are flocking for everything from briskly shaken margaritas to healthy vegetarian burritos. Jalapeño Jax, 7251 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-751-8030.

PAUL® Biscayne—and don’t forget those capital letters and that copyright symbol—is tempting the typical Aventura Barbie-mom to go off her low-carb diet with its maiden stateside bakery and café. The bread and pastry specialist, in operation since 1889 and now with more than 300 locations and franchises in France, also offers light bistro fare including salads, sandwiches and hearty soups du jour—served in a bread bowl, of course. PAUL® Biscayne, 14861 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach, 305-940-4443, www.PAULUSA.com.

Tommy Billante and company, creators of South Beach’s infamous Mezzanotte, return to the fine white sands with Sugo restaurant in the exclusive Sanctuary Hotel. Chef Manual Paucar’s dishes are Nuevo Italiano: chicken breast stuffed with shrimp and mushrooms over polenta; salmon with raisins, pine nuts, onions and tomato over risotto; and filet mignon with foie gras and porcini in Barolo sauce. Sugo, 1745 James Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-8804.

Now you can satisfy more than just your appetite for the written word at Mitchell Kaplan’s original Books & Books location on Lincoln Road. Voracious readers can order a variety of panini, burgers, salad creations and other well-rounded lunchtime fare at The Café @ Books & Books, an 80-seat indoor-outdoor, full-service restaurant that connects to the bookstore. Chef Bernard "Bernie" Matz, who co-founded the Wet Paint Café in 1986, also cooks up supper ranging from chicken fajitas to vegetarian platters, served family-style. And yes, from time to time you just might catch a local writer or two doing the Hemingway thing with a cold glass—er, bottle—of wine. The Café @ Books & Books, 933 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach, 305-695-8898.

Take that, you fat old sausage: Both traditional-minded and health-conscious Franktitude, with four types of franks (beef, chicken, salmon and tofu), three types of buns (white, whole grain and poppy seed) and close to 30 toppings available, has opened the first of four locations in downtown Miami. Accoutrements include salads, soups, fries, corn on the cob, coleslaw and even an ice cream dessert hot dog. Franktitude, 21 NW Miami Ct., Miami.

Restaurant Brana, the brainchild of Jeffrey Brana, erstwhile executive chef of Norman's Restaurant, and his wife Anna E. Brana, formerly Norman's Marketing Manager, is now open. The Florida Creative cuisine relies heavily on local and sustainable products. Restaurant Brana, 276 Alhambra Circle, Coral Gables, 305-444-4595, www.restaurantbrana.com.

It may not bring world peace but it does promise unity of a sort: Oneburger, from The Globe Cafe & Bar proprietor Daniel Guiteras, has launched next door. It offers four types of burgers—beef, poultry with veal, seafood and vegetarian—in various gourmet variations. No discriminating here against French fries, either, as there are also three types of hand-cut fries (Yukon Gold potato, yuca and sweet potato). Oneburger, 376 Alhambra Circle, Coral Gables, www.oneburger.com.

New in the city is Town Kitchen & Bar, in South Miami’s Plaza 57 building. Tutti’s Trattoria grads John Janette, manager, and Stefano LaCava, chef, joined partner Brandon Lurie in this immediately popular indoor-outdoor, all-things-to-all-citizens venue. Town Kitchen & Bar, 7310 SW 57 Ct., South Miami. 305-740-8118

It’s not named after Jennifer Aniston’s favorite diet. Or is it? Cuisine at the recently unveiled The Zone is “light continental,” according to proprietors Randy and Bente Lamchick, formerly of Fleming's: A Taste of Denmark, once owned by Bente's brother, Fleming Johansen. The Zone, 12313 S. Dixie Hwy., Pinecrest, 305-232-9663.

It’s fire (inside the coal pizza oven) and water (the direct views of the Intracoastal Waterway) at the new Fire Rock Grill located in revitalized downtown West Palm. Fire Rock Grill, One N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach.

Pick an island, any island. You’re likely to find its representative cuisine at the Asian/Caribbean/Hawaiian-fusion themed J. Shores, set in an historic, two-level Venetian-style building. J. Shores, 300 Clematis St., West Palm Beach.

Nightclub impresario Rodney Mayo reopened The Lounge, which now features sushi, sashimi and sake, in addition to karaoke and live acoustic entertainment. The Lounge, 517 Clematis St., West Palm Beach.

For a different take on club-dining, go Underground. This 3,200 square-foot basement, formerly the site of The Underground Coffeeworks, now features quick lunches, tapas and a full continental-style dinner menu. Evenings, The Underground morphs into an upscale, members-only nightclub, complete with a Russian specialty vodka and caviar bar. Underground, 105 Narcissus Ave., West Palm Beach.

It’s run by Italians, which partially accounts for the name: The Crazy Cuban has opened in Boynton Beach. Another reason? Owners Sam Mancuso and Bill Brogna restored the 1925 period building in which it’s housed with wood from a 1909 shipwreck. Dishes called ropa vieja (literally: old clothes) sound perfectly at home. The Crazy Cuban, 400 E. Boynton Beach Blvd., Boynton Beach, 561-734-1544.

La Vieille Maison fans, weep no more over its passing: Former chefs Matthew McDonald and Brett Katz have opened their own restaurant, Spontené. The menu is market-fresh American, with unique presentations and interesting surprises here and there. Spontené, 432 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561-276-8848.

Burgers as Beauty Cuisine?
Afterglo, Miami Beach’s home of self-described “Beauty Cuisine,” has added lunch to the roster, and it’s not tofu. They may be all made with specifically-sourced, organic and wild ingredients, but executive chef Sandee Birdsong’s menu actually includes burgers, pizza, franks and French fries. Now that’s what we call beautiful. Afterglo, 1200 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, www.afterglo-restaurant.com.

Out With The Old at Out of Denmark
Delray Beach’s Scandinavian restaurant Out of Denmark has been emphasizing the “out”—as in, out with the old. New proprietors Maryann and Jeff Salvey expanded the place into the space next door, took antiquated dishes such as tongue and sweetbreads off the menu, lowered prices and added lunch service, cash-only early-bird dinners and a separate menu available at the two full bars. Out of Denmark, 1715 S. Federal Highway, Delray Beach, 561-276-4950.