Maria "Namaste" A.'s Profile

We've all heard the saying about pizza and sex: Even when it's bad, it's still good.

Although the reviews and tips are mixed on Pizza Delight, I took a chance.

The basics:

It's open late and they sell by the slice.

It took between 5 - 10 minutes, the service was friendly enough and remembered our names.

I had a regular, no frills, slice of cheese. And it was fine.

It was hot on arrival, a little greasy, but most importantly it quelled my craving.

The slice and soda special is about $3 at most.

It's not gourmet, it's late-night.

Their dulce de leche donuts with raspberry jam are a warm, indulgence full of calories and sugar but things that taste this good, come with little to no remorse.

My entire experience at The Dutch was delightful.

Upon arrival, we were sat within mere minutes (and we were sans reservation on a bustling Friday night). Our server was friendly and charming and even a little more familiar than I'm accustomed to. Nevertheless, it was far better than the usual South Beach service.

We began with the spicy coconut lobster served in a coconut. The dish was refreshing and if you like cucumber this would be a great choice for you.

Next came the steak tartare which, is one of the best tartares I've had in my life.

We ordered a side of fries, which were also quite good.

The main course was a special, so, sadly, you may not find it on the menu when you visit. It was a special seafood ravioli with langostines. Very flavorful and creamy.

And of course we finished with those heavenly little dulce de leche donuts.

The wine and spirits menu has plenty of well-curated choices.

It's pretty difficult to have a bad experience at The Dutch, so be open to trying new things and enjoying your meal. But if the weather is nice I suggest requesting an outdoor table.

It's almost entirely authentic Mexican except it also serves up Dominican/Mexican dishes all their own.

This small restaurant packs a lot of charm between the attentive and welcoming staff and the strong menu. Ok, and they were playing good music.

We started with their pico de gallo and my dining companion mentioned she wanted to pick up the bowl and chug it. Fortunately, she didn't and we went on to have a chicken milanese torta (think of it like a Mexican sandwich) and the chicken quesadilla. Both were delicious.

We finished with flan that came topped with candied carrots.

Next time though it's all about the mangu.

Happy Hour: Yes! 50% off

If you work in the Gables you might now have a new addition to your dining regulars.

Sit down. Order a cocktail or beer. Then, tell your waiter you want Mama's Chicken Biscuits. Congratulations, you're already off to a strong start. From here forward the rest of the meal is up to you.

The vibe: Casually cool

The good news: You'll be overwhelmed with how many great dishes there are on the menu: melons and cheese, meat loaf, chicken and waffles, grits, and more. The cocktails and beer list is a winner.

The bad news: You will not be able to order everything you want in one sitting and especially not your first time. If you don't have reservations you may have a wait. So, go ahead and make reservations.

The service: Friendly, knowledgable, and genuinely interested in providing a good dining experience

The chef: Jeff McInnis shows off his Southern roots but finds a way to make this menu all his. You'll find Chef McInnis working round the clock making sure everything is running as smoothly as possible.

The nightly special when I was there was: $20 for a large pizza and a bottle of wine. That'd be a cool deal anywhere but once you consider that it's La Pizzeria di Lemoni aka from the same lovely owners of Lemoni Cafe then you understand what a real bargain this is.

The ladies of Lemoni have brought their signature charming style and welcoming vibe two doors north and focused on comfort Italian. Pizzas, pastas, calzones, and more.

Attentive service
Complimentary wifi (who doesn't love free wifi)
Good pizza
Beers and wines

It's charming, inviting, and well-designed.

I'd go meet friends for bites and drinks and I'm certain we might linger chatting.

But do I crave it? Did I think about my meal afterwards? Did it blow me away? No

It's got potential but for now I'd say don't plan any major dinners here.

Simple and good lunches seem more difficult to come by these days in Brickell but thank goodness Bom Fromage has salads and sandwiches, cheese plates, wine and a few more goodies.

Who doesn't love a good sandwich? Wait, I don't want to meet anyone who fits that description.

What I do want is more places like Bon Fromage.

If you've ever been to the Grove and you're even remotely into fashion then chances are you already know about Unika.

The buyer here has a steady vision of the woman he dresses. She's fashion forward but knows the classics and stocks up on basics. Modern and feminine is the order of the day.

Still, I love shopping their small but strong men's section. There's nothing like playing dress up with your favorite boy.

This place is a winner.

I've been here so many times and their chef Ralph Pagano can do no wrong. The man is a master.

Yes, there is steak but from ravioli to branzino there are no missteps. My favorite though is the short rib dish which is in one word, spectacular. You'll pause to enjoy and notice the entire table has closed eyes, and no conversation because you are all too focused on that bite and savoring every moment. But course after course and meal after meal Chef Pagano has displayed a vast understanding of comfort food and ability to be innovative.

As for the ambience? It is simultaneously laid back and upscale complete with a curated, cheerful playlist which included this gem on my last visit which had the table dancing and singing.

http://www.youtube.com...

Hands-down one of the best options for a lunch meeting in Downtown Miami. You can be formal and eat in the dining room or opt for a more casual tone and sit in the lounge/bar area. There is also complimentary wi-fi in the lounge, ideal for a solo working lunch as well.

Their lunch menu feels a bit limited compared to dinner but you'll find some winning options and well-known favorites such as the DB burger. Portions are ideal for lunch, satisfying without being too filling.

Regardless, of where you choose to sit, end your meal with a basket of their freshly made madeline cookies.