AMERICAN

Americana: The Ritz-Carlton pays homage to the supper clubs of the 1950s with the polished retro ambiance of its restaurant, Americana. With stunning views of an infinity pool and the Atlantic beyond, Americana’s outdoor setting is the perfect spot for Sunday brunch under the sun or a moonlit dinner with all the people-watching elements South Beach is famous for. Location: One Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-4000.

Big Pink: This South Pointe eatery has become very popular among locals and tourists. The menu is fairly extensive: salads, hamburgers, barbecue, pizza, etc. The dishes are affordable: under $30 for a three-course meal. During the late-night/early morning hours of Friday and Saturday, Big Pink is a much sought-after nourishment station for club-hoppers. Location: 157 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4700.

Cafeteria: Open 24 hours, this chic restaurant has a fabulous and relaxed ambiance for the trendy night owl and menus decorated with photos of local celebrities. Location: 546 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3663.

Casablanca Restaurant and Bar: Named after the famous movie, the menu has to be good. Right in the heart of South Beach. Location: 650 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9463.

510 Ocean: Executive Chef Cory “Big Tex” Smith, formerly of Pacific Time, serves a unique blend of global cuisine and owner Bryan Davis spins his own mix of music at this new SoFi dining spot. "Everything works at this 1-month-old restaurant…" and "510 Ocean is sitting at the top of our Favorites list," writes SunPost dining critic Mark Goldberg. Location: 510 Ocean Drive, at the Bentley Hotel, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1788.

Fifty Restaurant: The fare is a combination of classic American fare contemporized and influenced by other cultures and countries that have made their way to the American table. Location: 444 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-2441.

Frankie’s Big City Grill: Owner Frank Crupi serves up Philly cheese steaks, barbecue, Boston crab cake sandwiches, muffuletta sandwiches as well as dinner entrées at this family-oriented joint. Homemade chocolate chip cookies and lemon pound cake complete the down-home experience. Location: 8601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-762-5333.

Gordon Biersch Brewery: Like GBs all over the United States, Gordon Biersch on Brickell brews its own German-style beer on the premises. Gordon Biersch also serves entrées like tender filet mignon with Portobello demi glace, lamb chops sautéed with Moroccan spices and tomato-cucumber raita or other meals that have received thumbs-up from local dining critics. Location: 1201 Brickell Ave., Miami. Phone: 786-425-1130.

Michael’s Kitchen: Offers a wide variety of eclectic and satisfying dishes. The restaurant’s motto, “The Cure for Boring Food,” is one that chef and owner Michael Blum strives to preserve. Dishes include steak, fresh vegetables, sandwiches, pastas and pizzas with featured items such as firecracker tuna martinis and candied pecan grouper. Location: 2000 Harrison St., Hollywood. Phone: 954-926-5556.

Mike’s at Plaza Venetia: Shoot some pool and follow it with dinner at this sports bar and restaurant that has been serving Miami for 17 years. Mike’s serves seriously good food in a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy the patio’s ocean view and dine on dishes such as Seafood Fra Diablo with shrimp, sea scallops and mussels pan-seared in a spicy marinara sauce served over linguini. Seafood Mornay, Louisiana Baby Back Ribs and a French Dip sandwich also can be found on the menu. Location: 555 NE 15th St., Miami (Ninth Floor, Plaza Venetia). Phone: 305-374-5731.

News Cafe: Popular cafe restaurant, bar and newsstand that’s open 24 hours a day. Open since 1988. Location: 800 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-6397.

Premier Wine Club: Premier Wine Club is a wine bar and bistro that boasts a wine list of over 500 wines with meals specially designed to complement the wines. Location: 145 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-416-5187.

Roger’s: Offers unique waterfront dining. Dine on the patios located directly on Biscayne Bay, where booths are set up beneath a large tiki bar. The food is all-American cuisine with a Southern twist, providing patrons with fried chicken, burgers, biscuits, and potato pancakes with salmon caviar. Wine can be purchased for $20 to $50 per bottle. Location: 1601 79th St. Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-7111.

Soyka: Take a walk on the wild side and head over to Soyka’s, a culinary oasis in Miami’s Upper Eastside. Main courses include garlic and herb rotisserie chicken; grilled New York steak; linguine with spicy Italian sausage; wiener schnitzel and sesame-seared salmon. Location: 5556 NE Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-759-3117.

Van Dyke Café: Serves up comfort food such as fish, burgers, steak, salad and mashed potatoes to a trendy and diverse clientele. Location: 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3600.

Z Wine Grill: This eatery is considered the best new restaurant in North Beach. It has all of the quality of South Beach food without the price tag. You can enjoy Sunday Brunch or Jazz & Flamenco on Fridays & Saturdays. Location: 6984 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-7001.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Carnival Center for the Performing Arts: This is not your average performing arts center. Resident companies, local, national and international performers provide extraordinary cultural and educational experiences of the highest quality for diverse audiences. Location: 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-468-2222.

Gablestage at the Biltmore Hotel: Gablestage provides the South Florida community with classical, contemporary and new theatrical productions of artistic excellence. We challenge our multicultural audience with innovative productions that entertain as well as confront today’s issues and ideas. Location: 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-446-1116.

Freddick Bratcher and Company: Founded in 1980, this contemporary dance company is headed by choreographer Freddick Bratcher. Phone: 305-302-8947. Web site: www.freddickbratcherandcompany.com.

Miami City Ballet: Miami City Ballet is an acknowledged force in the international dance world with a unique South Florida ambiance, directed by legendary dancer Edward Villella. Check it out this season. Location: 2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-929-7010.

Momentum Dance Company: Celebrating its 25^th anniversary, Delma Iles’ company offers a performance season for kids as well as adults, plus classes and other activities. Phone: 305-858-7002. Web site: www.momentumdance.com.

BAKERY

Buenos Aires Bakery Corp.: This Argentine bakery sells more than 25 different types of Sactura (Argentine Danish) including dulce de leche. Buenos Aires is set up French-style with hardwood floors, chandeliers, curtains outside and outdoor seating. Besides pastries, they sell sandwiches including veal cutlets. Open for all three meals to accommodate different appetites. Location: 7134 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-7887.

Coma’s Café & Bakery: From Barcelona, Spain, Coma’s not only has a wide selection of pastries and cakes, but also serves sandwiches, breakfast and lunch. Another new feature: Beer and wine are available. Location: 1710 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 3930 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: (Beach) 305-695-4151; (Miami) 305-576-8109.

Extravaganza Pastry: A coffee shop that makes pastries, specialty cakes, cookies, breads, and caters special events. Location: 12117 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-899-8998.

Kafka’s Kafe: A combination Internet café, magazine stand, used bookstore, and coffee shop. The coffee shop features a wide variety of coffee creations as well as breads, cakes and other pastries. Location: 1464 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-9669.

Le Chic French Bakery: This quaint bakery on Washington Avenue serves some of the best French-style baked products in SoBe, ranging from French bread to pastries and other desserts to croissants of all sorts (our personal favorite is the chocolate). There are seating areas for those who want to eat right there and then, but most people prefer to order their products and savor Le Chic’s baked goods in the privacy of their own homes. Location: 1043 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5522.

Taste Bakery Café: Tired of only having two choices with your coffee: muffins or bagels? In addition to the usual, Taste offers a variety of treats like home-baked artisan breads, desserts, cakes, wraps, sandwiches, and the thin, hot Italian panini. The coffee and smoothies are fresh. Eat in at the cozy nook or take advantage of free delivery, seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: 900 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-9920.

BARS, CLUBS & OTHER NIGHTLIFE VENUES

Abbey Brewing Co.: Since 1990 Abbey Brewing Co. has tried hard to find beers from all over planet Earth (particularly Germany and Belgium) along with its own brand of 16 beers such as Abbey Brown, IPA and the mind-killing Abbey 12. Abbey has a selection of bar food available. Not in the mood for beer? Check out the wine list. Location: 1115 16th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-8110.

Amika Loft Lounge and Discotheque: Spearheaded by nightlife industry veteran Tony Guerra, Amika is the latest club to occupy 1532 Washington Ave. (Previous incarnations include Shadow Lounge and a short-lived sequel to Liquid.) The partners invested time and much money to give it an original look. Location: 1532 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-1499.

Automatic Slim’s: A rock ’n’ roll-style bar/lounge with no cover charge. Affordable drinks, tasty bar food and spinning by SoBe’s best local DJs. Location: 1216 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-0795.

B.E.D.: A lot easier to say than Beverage Entertainment Dining, it’s the actual beds sprawled throughout B.E.D. that make this place distinctive. The nightlife component features DJs spinning disco house, R& B, funk and other forms of musical beats. Location: 929 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9070.

Beaches Bar & Grill: Giant large screen TVs, bumper pool, pool tables, giant jukebox selection, full kitchen, daily happy hour – not bad for a bar located in the basement of the Days Inn Hotel. Location: 4299 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1910.

Biscaya Hotel: Rooftop bars and lounges are the in-thing nowadays. Keeping up with the trend, Biscaya Hotel offers a rooftop bar and lounge for guests of this Mid-Beach hotel. Location: 4000 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4411.

Blue: Owned by Scott Fiesch, Blue is an attitude-free bar and lounge where some of the best DJs entertain the masses. Location: 222 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-1009.

Bongo’s: Owned by Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Bongo’s is a Cuban restaurant-Latin dance club fusion. People have been known to stand in line for up to half an hour for the chance to dance to merengue, salsa or whatever the DJ decides to play. Location: 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-777-2100.

Boy Bar: North Beach’s only gay bar, this establishment is open until 5 a.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Thirsty? Boy Bar has two-for-one drinks from 5 to 9 p.m. Location: 1220 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-BOYS.

Bricks Nightclub: Conveniently located in the heart of Brickell, where business and pleasure intersect. Boasting three separate rooms, five full-service bars and totaling over 10,000 square feet, Bricks features an exclusive LED lighting system to South Florida. Happy Hour is 6-9 p.m. Fridays. Location: 66 SW Sixth St., Miami. Phone: 305-371-6950.

Broadway Billiards: A classy joint that is all about playing pool. Full-service bar and wait staff. Tuesdays are ladies nights and Sundays are pool tournament nights. Location: 17813 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-931-1900.

Cafeteria: A 24-hour restaurant with ample outdoor seating and a cozy back lounge open until 5 a.m., Cafeteria is anything but the sterile eatery its name conjures up. Cocktails include “liquid passion,” served with an edible flower; and for something sweeter, the apple martini comes with a rock candy sugar stick..

Location: 546 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3663.

Carrousel Yacht: Imagine getting married while cruising through scenic waters on a 135-foot luxury yacht. Carrousel Yacht was specifically built to accommodate upscale, elegant business and social events. On-board chefs prepare cuisine in the ship’s state of the art galley and offer clients a choice of menus, beverage service, and entertainment. Location: 1717 N. Bayshore Drive, Suite 2500, Miami; www.carrouselyacht.com. Phone: 305-530-9700.

Churchill’s Hideaway: Offers a wide array of entertainment for its drinking patrons. Besides the acclaimed live band – running the gauntlet from rock and alternative to jazz and even some punk – there have even been “mud-wrestling events” held here. Location: 5501 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-757-1807.

Clevelander: In the 1980s, before the phrase “never a cover” became popular, the Clevelander never charged for entry to its inside sports bar or its famous outside lobby. Today the crowds still flock to dine and drink at the Clevelander. And whether it’s a live sporting event, live music or a “Hot Body” modeling contest, Clevelander still never charges a cover. Location: 1020 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-3485.

Club Deep: Washington Avenue clubs often come and go in the blink of an eye, but thanks to the tenacity of club owners Peter and Tina Pekofsky, and, of course, the ever-popular 2,000-gallon aquarium that serves as a dance floor, Club Deep continues to do well with the young professional crowd. Location: 621 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1509.

Club Deuce: While the title implies a “club,” the only DJs you are likely to see are those who want to blow off some steam after a hard night of spinning. Basically this is a full-service bar with a good jukebox and a single pool table. The fun is watching the diverse, eclectic and sometimes on-the-edge customers who wander in. Location: 222 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6200.

Club Madonna: No pasties on the nipples of these women. Club Madonna’s dancers take it all off in one of only two places that allow totally nude dancing south of Haulover Park. But that’s not all. Club Madonna’s entertainers also give friction dances, shower dances and private dances in stretch limos. Location: 1527 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2000.

Dewey’s Tavern: A neighborhood bar with a daily happy hour, Dewey’s also serves food, including mighty tasty cheeseburgers, from 11 a.m. until 4 a.m. They have a pool table plus a large-screen TV for sporting events. Location: 852 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9980.

Delano Hotel: Transforms its pool and “Rose Bar” into a club in its own right on Wednesday nights and weekends. Location: 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2000.

Fat Tuesday: A rowdy party spot where daiquiris are king and Mardi Gras, South Beach style, is every night of the week. Location: 918 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-1328.

Felt: Amuse yourself at any one of the 10 regulation-sized pool tables and the full-service bar. Felt tends to be a popular hangout for promoters and club owners. Location: 1242 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-2114.

Finnegan’s Way: Tired of the same clichéd SoBe atmosphere on Ocean Drive? Then visit the alternative: Finnegan’s Way. An open-air bar provides the sort of neighborhood feel often missing in SoBe. (Plus it has a real cool fish tank containing a mini-shark.) If you’re hungry, check out the generous steak and seafood menu. Location: 1344 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7747.

Finnegan’s II: While its menu is somewhat more limited than its Ocean Drive counterpart, the bar and kitchen is full-service into the wee hours and its bartenders are talented in the art of mixing mind-numbing alcoholic beverages, which makes for some interesting games of pool and darts. On weekend nights Finnegan’s II also offers live music. Location: 942 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7997.

Free Spirits: Your typical friendly neighborhood bar, grill and sports café. If you want to go where everyone will know your name, this is the spot. Enjoy 3 Bud Happy Hour every Friday from noon to 7 p.m. What else do you need to free your spirits? Location: 100 21st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5399.

Gold Rush: The only 24-hour adult entertainment club in South Florida. Location: 29 NE 11th St., Miami. Phone: 305-358-9848.

Happy’s Stork Lounge: Gotta love a bar that does takeout. Attached to the dark, intimate bar is a liquor store that not only sells beer, wine and potent spirits but also porn! (What else does a stork need to be happy?) Bar component has overhanging TVs, amusement games, a pool table and an interesting clientele. Happy hour stretches from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Location: 1872 79th St., North Bay Village. Phone: 305-865-3621.

Hard Rock Café: Live musical acts regularly grace Hard Rock’s stage. Plus find good food, a full bar and plenty of “Hard Rock Café” T-shirts for sale. Location: 401 Biscayne Blvd., R-200, Bayside Marketplace, Miami. Phone: 305-377-3110.

Hoy Como Ayer: Want to find the best in cutting-edge music and jazz? Then check out a place called Calle Ocho. Location: 2212 SW Eighth St., Miami. Phone: 305-541-2631.

I/O: This Miamiland mainstay is still popular, offering trance, rock en español, reggae and other music provided by bands and DJs. Location: 30 NE 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-358-8007.

Jazid: As its promo announces, this club offers live jazz “every damn night.” Hear live jazz or R&B downstairs nightly while DJs spin upstairs. Location: 1342 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-9372.

Jimmy’z at the Forge: Inspired by pre-Castro Cuba, Jimmy’z has since transformed into a European-style dance club. Wednesday’s are Ladies Night; Thursdays, Brazilian Night; and Friday and Saturday, Reggae Dance Night. Location: 432 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-9798.

Laundry Bar: Motto: "Where Your Clothes Get Washed While You Get Sloshed!" Open for the last six years, the Laundry Bar is a full-service Laundromat and full-liquor bar. Open seven days from 7 a.m. to 5 a.m. Daily two-for-one happy hour 5 to 9 p.m. Location: 721 N. Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7700.

Liquor Lounge: A great jukebox, a full-service bar, talented DJs on the weekends and a terrific view of the Art Deco décor of Collins Avenue. Location: 1560 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-7171.

Lost Weekend: Stepping into this pool hall is like stepping back in time. There’s no attitude, no flash, no cover and no frills. The place is always crowded and the guys are serious about playing pool. Location: 218 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1707.

Lucky Strike Lanes: This venue has brought South Beach bowling and a new generation of bowlers. The lanes have a singularly upscale ambiance uncharacteristic of a bowling alley—vintage elements, modern décor, state of the art technology. Location: 1691 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0307.

Mandarin Hotel: Have a drink at the elegant M-Bar or enjoy the live entertainment provided in the hotel lounge. Location: 500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone: 305-913-8288.

Mango’s: At David Wallack’s Mango’s you can taste great food, watch scantily clad Latin dancers shake what their mamas gave 'em, and boogie a little yourself to the various live bands featured every night. Open at 11 a.m. and partying until 5 in the morning, Mango’s keeps the music going. It also serves a tasty salsa, with full-service, Latin continental cuisine ranging from chicken wings to lobster tails. Location: 900 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-4422.

Mansion: Formerly called Level, Mansion – at 40,000 square feet – is the largest nightclub space in South Beach. Now under the same ownership as Club Opium. Location: 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1525.

Marlin: A South Beach jewel from its inception, the Marlin is a truly unique, service-oriented hot spot for the music and film industry as well as the leisure traveler. Recently purchased by New York nightlife impresario Tim Spuches’ Palm Resorts Group, the famed hotel, formerly owned by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, boasts 12 loft-style suites, a recording studio, the Elite Modeling Agency and one of Miami’s most popular nightclubs. Location: 1200 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-3595.

Mike’s at Venetia: This Irish-style bar is equipped with 18 televisions connected to DirecTV, pool tables and, during its 4 to 7 p.m. Happy Hour (8 p.m. on Fridays), all cocktails, beer and food dishes are discounted. Poolside patio dining (and drinking) available. Location: 555 NE 15th St., Ninth Floor, Miami. Phone: 305-374-5731.

Mynt Ultra Lounge: With the most exclusive velvet rope in Miami Beach, Mynt has created a reputation for hosting the most elite crowd. From housing the longest bar in Miami Beach to playing the hottest tracks in hip-hop and electronic music, Mynt exudes the essence of South Beach chic. Location: 1921 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-6132.

Nikki Beach: Nestled within the Penrod’s entertainment complex, Nikki Beach maximizes the surrounding tropical landscape, sea breezes, palm trees and warm sand by staging most of its entertainment outdoors. Location: One Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1231.

Norman’s American Bar and Grill: This bar and restaurant (now offering low-carb dishes) is a popular North Beach hangout, partly because of its friendly bar staff and partly because of its satellite soccer matches. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. Location: 6770 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-9248.

Ocean Club Sports Bar and Grill: Recently opening on this oceanfront street east of Collins Avenue, Ocean Club has two big-screen television and three projection monitors, pool tables, foosball, a 5 to 8 p.m. happy hour Monday through Friday and a menu featuring “original recipes.” Location: 7450 Ocean Terrace, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-5116.

Opium Garden: Now home to the hipster VIP room called Privé, Opium continues to thrive and evolve under the leadership of Eric and Francis Milon, Mark Lehmkul and Roman Jones. Location: 136 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-8630.

Palace Food Bar: This very gay-friendly establishment serves drinks and food and keeps the party going. Location: 1200 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7234.

Palms Hotel: Live music comes along with the happy hour at this hotel’s bar lobby with performers such as singer Nicole Henry. Location: 3025 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-0505.

Pangaea/Gryphon: At the epicenter of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s Paradise Live! entertainment complex, are Pangaea and the Gryphon, two sensational yet distinctive lounge and nightclub concepts transformed into one sensual, vibrant nightspot. With sexy décor, world-famous DJs, spectacular dancers, hosts of percussionists and exclusive parties, Pangaea and the Gryphon offer an unparalleled experience and an alternative to South Beach. Location: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood; www.mountthegryphon.com. Phone: 954-327-7625.

Pawn Shop Lounge: Downtown's newest and most unique venue, the Pawn Shop Lounge features über-cool interior design with VIP areas carved out of a school bus and Airstream trailer, as well as a lounge framed by the body of a 727. Pawn Shop's music is equally eclectic with everything from rock to house to live bands offered weekly. Location: 1222 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-373-3511.

Phone-Tastics Internet Café: For those who prefer to party online than wait in line to get into a club, this café offers Internet and gaming computers. Phone-Tastics is also a T-mobile and Cingular authorized dealer. Location: 924 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-1734.

Players: An establishment that serves beer and comfort food. This entertainment complex also has video games, a free-throw basketball court, pool tables and two bowling lanes. Location: 30 NE 11th St., Miami. Phone: 305-375-0202.

The Playwright: Eamon Guilfoyle sought to fill a Celtic void when he opened the Playwright on Washington Avenue. Now this establishment still packs them in with its authentic Irish pub atmosphere. The pub has become a Mecca for soccer fans as well. This is also a place to find authentic Irish cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Location: 1265 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-0667.

The Polar Bar: This new addition to the Lincoln Road party scene features a bar and lounge area with music and, as the name suggests, a chill vibe. Location: 938 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-9334.

Purdy Lounge: Have the urge to drink a quality cocktail, play some pool and lounge about on some of the most unique furniture in South Florida? Then Purdy Lounge is the place for you. Thursday night is ladies’ night when, from 10 p.m. to midnight, those of the female persuasion can drink free. Location: 1811 Purdy Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-4622.

Raleigh Bar: Raleigh guests and nonguests flock to this full-service bar to enjoy giant martinis and everything else the talented bartenders can whip up. Location: 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-6300.

Room: Founded by Craig Weiss, who set up a couple of Rooms in New York, the establishment prides itself on gathering a loyal following via word of mouth. In spite of its concrete-inspired decor, the Room has a comfortable feel, especially after you’ve had a glass of wine or a few of the 50 or so beers from England, Germany, France, the Czech Republic, Scotland and exotic American brands (you will NOT find Budweiser here) and heard the Room’s selection of cutting-edge music. Location: 100 Collins Ave., #4, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-6061.

Royal Buddha Bar: A lounge where one can sit back and relax on the wide assortment of comfy furniture. Location: 758 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0310.

Ruby Lounge: Enjoy the flavor of Ruby Lounge, an American Tropical Grill where the setting resembles an intimate New York-style lounge with a douse of tropical flavor. Located in the heart of South Beach, the attire is casual, fun and offers dim lights and good music playing in the background. After dinner kick things up a notch with dancing and live music Tuesday through Sunday. Location: 623 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1118

Sandbar Lounge: Tourists and locals alike hang at this establishment to watch the game, listen to jukebox music, shoot the breeze and enjoy a cocktail or brew. Plus there’s live musical entertainment Thursday through Saturday. Location: 6752 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-1752.

Score: Known for its ideal location, Sunday afternoon Tea Dances and no cover charge, this gay bar/club has the best of both worlds offering tables outside and inside. Score has various bars, lounge areas and dance floors playing dance, hip-hop and classics for patrons seven days a week. Location: 727 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-1111.

Segafredo: Around the world the name Segafredo Zanetti Espresso means an Italian-based coffee bar franchise where one can find the best coffee. On Lincoln Road the name means a place where one can also find good sandwiches and salads, good desserts and good friends. Described as a lounge that extends into the outdoors, Segafredo has a full-service alcohol bar that not only features tasty mixed drinks but also bottled beer. Location: 1040 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-0047.

Shine: Nightlife impresario Gerry Kelly’s latest offering to South Beach scenesters is a thumping club inside the Shelborne Hotel. Location: 1801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-341-1455.

Soho Lounge: One of the hottest spots in the Design District features totally ’80s freestyle, classic new wave spun by DJs Jimmy James, Dennis M and Stella B every Saturday. Location: 175 NE 36th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-576-1988.

Solid Gold: The ultimate gentleman’s club offering 12,000 square feet of adult entertainment, Solid Gold now features regular live entertainment by famous ’80s groups such as Flock of Seagulls and Rat. Location: Northeast corner of 163rd Street and Biscayne Boulevard, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-956-5726.

SoFi Lounge: The latest hip drinking and restaurant establishment to open up south of Fifth Street in Miami Beach (and the last that will be allowed to operate past 5 a.m.), SoFi has a two-for-one Happy Hour, Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Location: 423 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4444.

Space: Proof that warehouses can in fact make nifty clubs. Some of the best DJs in the United States have performed here. And thanks to Miami’s liberal liquor laws, this club will keep you dancing until the next day. Location: 34 NE 11th St., Miami. Phone: 305-372-9378.

State: The establishment is known for its fashion shows, art exhibits and the occasional celebrity seeking that different nightlife vibe. Location: 320 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-2820.

SkyBar: Located behind the Shore Club Hotel, the sky is the ceiling for a courtyard nightlife experience known as the Bamboo Garden and RumBar (around the bar). Prefer something with more interior space? Hang in the Red Room. Patterned after the ultra-hip SkyBar in L.A. Location: 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-3244.

Teasers: Restaurant and club located inside an Art Deco hotel in the heart of the Art Deco District. The restaurant, offering a spacious ocean view, was the scene of an official MTV Music Video Awards block party. Location: 524 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8420.

Ted’s Hideaway: A South Pointe institution, Ted’s Hideaway is run by Bob and Tim Wilcox. A full-service bar with a pool table and jukebox, Ted’s now also sports a comfortable living room-style lounge with couches and a full-screen television that is decorated with extraterrestrial papier-mâché art. Location: 124 Second St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9869.

Tobacco Road: Once considered a dive, the nearly century-old joint now attracts yuppies and bikers alike who are interested in good booze, good food and good music. Blues greats like B.B. King have played at Tobacco Road and local blues bands like Iko-Iko make regular appearances. But the Road doesn’t just live on blues alone: Jazz, rock, alternative and a host of other forms of live music are heard here as well. Location: 626 S. Miami Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-374-1198.

Touch: The second SoBe establishment founded by the late Bobby Rifkin, Touch offers interesting floor shows (including DJs, musicians and go-go dancers) and fantastic American and seafood cuisine. Location: 910 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8003.

Townhouse Rooftop: The oh-so-mod Townhouse Hotel sits a half-block from the beach in the fun atmosphere of the Art Deco District. This homage to hip includes rooftop terrace waterbeds and a glow-in-the-dark water tower. Built in 1939, the landmark hotel reopened at the turn of the millennium after major renovations by the same transplanted New Yorker responsible for the Delano's Blue Door restaurant. Jonathan Morr was intent on being a bit irreverent in design while making this property a "cool place to be." Location: 20th Street and Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3800.

Tropical Cigars: Has a full-service bar along with its selection of tobacco (C&P, Montecristo, Arturo Fuentes, Macanudo, Cao, Gurkha and other fine brands). From 2 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, enjoy two-for-one mojitos and drafts. The place packs them in with a wide assortment of live music acts throughout the week. On Fridays after 10 p.m., enjoy the music of Afro-Cuban funk band Palo! Location: 741 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-3194.

Twist: Hailed by locals as one of the best gay bars in South Beach, Twist is one of the few places south of Dade Boulevard where a patron can just relax and be him- or herself or whatever. In fact, Twist has become so popular that it expanded to include an outdoor lounge, a rooftop bar, a game room and the all-essential dance floor. Oh yeah, it also has male strippers. Location: 1057 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-9478.

Van Dyke Café: Mark Soyka’s personal mark on South Beach, the Van Dyke Café possesses the largest vegetation-decorated sidewalk café on Lincoln Road. It is also home to one of the most popular jazz clubs in South Beach, and offers an eclectic menu of entrées. Location: 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3600.

Wet Willie’s: The second-floor balcony will get you high and the potent frozen drinks will get you even higher. Not for lightweight partiers. Location: 760 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-5650.

Where?house: More adventures in warehouses being converted into nightclubs. In this case said warehouse is located in Northeast Miami-Dade. Artist Bruce Grayson – a graphic designer, interior designer and party promoter – created one of the most original private-club and special-event venues in South Florida. We’re talking 18-foot-high murals, painted floors, hand-painted furniture and “lighting sculptures.” Also has caterers, a DJ, security, a kitchen, an illuminated bar and even a 55-inch-wide television. Location: 2016 NE 155th St., Aventura. Phone: 305-493-8595.

The Whitelaw Lounge: This upscale Art Deco hotel is so stylish it’s not surprising they serve a mean martini. And you’ll look oh-so-cool sipping yours in 808, the hotel’s new retro martini bar with an “unabridged” menu of martinis, champagne, espresso drinks and deserts. Location: 808 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-398-7000

W Wine Bistro: In the heart of the Design District, this bistro/wine shop offers more than 200 wines from around the world, focusing on small wineries and organic growers. The menu, mostly fresh salads and sandwiches at lunch, changes after 5.30 p.m. to tapas and wine-friendly foods. For happy hour, from Tuesday to Saturday, 5:30 to 7 p.m. patrons can drink bottles of wine at retail price with no corkage fee added. It’s also a great spot to watch Miami Heat Games. Location: 3622 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-576-7775.

Zeke’s Roadhouse: The affordable beer place returns! Now under the control of Thelma Deutsch, all beers (domestic or foreign, draft and bottled) are $3. Wine is $4 a glass. Location: 625 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-3118.

CASUAL DINING

Biscayne Pita Boom: For an Israeli experience on the boulevard, try a variety of pita sandwiches and kebab platters with grilled beef, lamb, chicken, falafel, etc. Delivery is available. Location: 2590 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-576-7555

Cafe Cafe at 55th Street Station: This European-style cafe features a menu accented by traditional Italian and American ingredients, all compliments of chef Ricardo Valespino. Cafe Cafe offers fresh ingredients as well as a variety of sandwiches, homemade soups and other traditional Mediterranean fare. Location: 5580 NE Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-754-6700.

Cheeseburger Baby: The name says it all! Cheeseburgers are the favorite here, baby. There is a $6.99 lunch special Monday to Friday including a cheeseburger, fries and a soda. Plus, Friday, Saturday and Sunday it’s all-you-can-drink with the purchase of a cheeseburger. Location: 1505 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7300.

Front Porch: Since this eatery’s creation, the owners have aspired to make this Penguin Hotel restaurant a “home away from home.” Their formula: Serving fresh food in generous portions at a reasonable price. While breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes are available, the Front Porch’s breakfast and brunch specials (which can be ordered any time of the day) are among the most popular. Location: 1418 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-8300.

Grill Med: A trip to the Mediterranean is two blocks from the beach, just west of the busy intersection of 11th Street and Collins Avenue. They serve spiced meats and various spirits in a very intimate atmosphere. Within the 1,000 square feet of the place, Lebanese owner Mario El-Asmar treats customers like relatives. Location: 209 11 St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-6177.

Karma Kar Wash and Café: The perfect venue for lunch and a car wash, at the same time. Location: 7810 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-759-1392.

La Sandwicherie: The place to go for gourmet sandwiches, salads, shakes, smoothies and everything in between. Among the choices: roast beef sandwich, roast beef salad, seafood sandwich, tomatoes mozzarella, tuna salad, the French Riviera, pate sandwich, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella and the famous Croque Monsieur hot plate, consisting of grilled toast, ham and Swiss with a side salad. Location: 229 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8934.

Miami Gyro: Open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, Miami Gyro is a small cafe that serves everything from Greek salads to Greek-style hamburgers and authentic gyros. Eat in or enjoy takeout specials and free delivery. Location: 540 Washington Ave., Miami Beach Phone: 305-531-5526

Nexxt Café: Sports a menu 18 pages long with items like quesadillas, chicken wings, salmon egg rolls, pizza, tacos, chicken, crab, salads, coffee, tea, steak, pastas, beer, etc. Take the Nexxt challenge and see if there’s anything on the menu they don’t have. Location: 700 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-6643.

Norman’s American Bar and Grill: Taking bar food to a whole new level, Norman’s dishes include fresh smoked salmon/rainbow trout, hickory smoked on the premises; fresh-cut calamari dusted with Norman’s special seasonings and served with lemon wedges and homemade marinara sauce; a “Barman’s Fried Seafood Platter” featuring fresh mahi-mahi, calamari, batter-fried shrimp and bay scallops; and “Chicken Wings … and Damn Good Ones Too.” Location: 6770 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-9248.

Ocean Club Sports Bar & Grill: The ultimate spot for good food, drink and most of all sports. This sports bar and grill is equipped with big-screen TV's, huge video projectors giving you a front row seat to boxing's main event, the MLB playoffs or NFL game of the week. Boasting original recipes for wings and burgers, Ocean Club is a gathering place for locals and tourist alike. Features a full liquor bar with a happy hour seven days a week from 5 to 8 p.m. Location: 7450 Ocean Terrace, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-1631.

Paninoteca: For the serious sandwich connoisseur, this shop makes gourmet quality sandwiches and pizzinis the European way. Example: Norwegian smoked salmon with Italian cream cheese, fresh lemon juice, spinach, endive, white wine vinegar and olive oil. Location: 809 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0058.

The Pita Pit: Pocket sandwiches and more at this Persian grill. Location: 1321 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8333.

Shucker’s: While an assortment of comfort food dishes are available, many diners are inspired by the waterfront view to try the steamed clam and oyster selection or snack on a few conch fritters. Since it is a bar and grill, there is a full bar, pool tables and a few video games. Since it is so close to WSVN, you may even see a couple of Channel Seven guys getting hammered. Location: 1819 79th Street (Kennedy) Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-1570.

Uva 69 Inn: No it is not a motel. Rather, Uva 69 Inn is an eatery that prepares salads and a sandwich shop with a mixed French and Cuban slant. Location: 6900 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-754-9022.

CHINESE

Bamboo Garden: Has earned a reputation throughout Northeast Miami-Dade as a major source for authentic Chinese cuisine. Location: 13195 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami; 1232 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: (North Miami) 305-899-9902; (NMB) 305-945-1722.

Christine Lee’s Restaurant: Serving patrons for 35 years, this Chinese restaurant offers Western dishes such as prime sirloin steak, Dover sole almandine, veal chops and broiled spring chicken. The menu also features Mandarin and Szechwan specialties like steak stir-fried with black mushroom caps and bamboo shoots or shrimp with lobster sauce. Location: 17082 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-947-1717.

Emerald Coast: Boasts six elegant dining rooms and the management vows they use only the freshest ingredients. Besides tasty Chinese cuisine, Emerald Coast has a sushi bar with everything from eel, tuna and spider rolls to California, spicy tuna and vegetable rolls. Location: 16850 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-787-1530.

Fu Manchu: Now enjoying its 62nd year on Miami Beach, Fu Manchu has been serving roast pork, egg drop, chow mein and other Chinese favorites for so long it can qualify as a landmark. Fu Manchu also delivers to Miami Beach, Surfside, North Bay Village, Bay Harbor Islands, Bal Harbour and, as its menu says, to “all hotels and motels.” Location: 325 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-866-4303

Kim’s Chinese: Offering selections in Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechwan styles for the last 40 years, Kim’s offers a casual environment, takeout service and a speedy delivery service available from First to 65th streets in Miami Beach. Prices are affordable with dinner specials starting at $8.50. Also does catering. Location: 1245 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8822.

Miss Yip Chinese Café: Contemporary Asian dining just off Lincoln Road. The Shanghai Express lunch special for $10.88 runs from noon to 6 p.m. daily. The dining room is open until 11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and until midnight Friday-Saturday. Location: 1661 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-5488.

Sum Yum Gai: Why not take some young guy or gal, or an old guy or gal, or maybe even someone between genders to Sum Yum Gai, where fine Chinese dining can be found in a casual eating environment. Location: 1403 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-8889.

Yeung’s Mandarin Garden: With more than two decades of experience, Yeung’s affordable Chinese cuisine has been hailed by critics. Patrons can dine in the restaurant’s elegant dining room or order takeout. Yeung’s also does catering. Location: 954 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-1144.

CUBAN

Cachita Restaurant: Authentic Cuban cuisine and coffee with friendly service and a family atmosphere. Location: 1116 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-8144.

Café Cardozo: Part of the Estefan Enterprises empire, Café Cardozo is located inside the landmark Art Deco Cardozo Hotel and serves Cuban cuisine with Asian accents. Location: 1300 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-2822.

David’s Café II: The all-you-can-eat 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. lunch buffet is popular with South Beachers and visitors from all walks of life. (It’s only $8.50, weekdays only.) For those who missed the meal, David’s also serves arroz con pollo, black beans and rice, fish soup, egg salad, linguine, pork, and other dishes 24 hours a day. And coffee junkies have come to appreciate David’s style of high-octane caffeine. Location: 1654 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8707.

Havana Dreams Café: The “home Cuban and International Cuisine, Music and Art,” dishes include Macademia Red Fish, Broiled Lamb Shank, Pan-Roasted Grouper Portobello, Filete de Pollo en Salsa de Langosta and, last but not least Arroz con Pollo. Live comedy shows on the weekends. Location: 9735 NW 41st St., Miami. Phone: 305-716-4999.

La Palomilla on the Beach: Authentic Cuban cuisine with daily lunch specials starting at $4.95 plus tax. Take-out and delivery also available. Location: 219 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-4414.

Larios on the Beach: Yet another Gloria and Emilio Estefan-owned establishment, Larios offers authentic Cuban cuisine such as traditional black beans and rice, green plantain cups stuffed with beef or shrimp, and grilled fish filet. The essence of pre-Castro Cuba is also captured by décor that depicts a 1940s countryside. Location: 820 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9577.

Yuca: Since 1989, this restaurant has served dishes from the island such as “Rabo Encendido,” a tender, slow-braised oxtail in fiery rioja wine sauce and roast garlic and yucca mash or “Pollo Criollo,” a grilled semi-boneless half chicken marinated in tropical citrus juices and served with a citrus vinaigrette on fufu with plantain chips and avocados. Location: 501 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9822.

DELICATESSEN

Arnie and Richie’s: A deli dining institution for decades, A&R uses only the freshest fish, ham, roast beef, and salami. Location: 525 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7691.

Bagels and Company: In the mood for an old-fashioned deli dinner? Corned beef and cabbage, hot brisket and homemade meatloaf are among the meals on the menu that patrons delight in at Bagels and Company. Dinners, which start at $7.95, include soup or salad. Catering and platters are also available from the Bagels and Company Deli and Restaurant. Breakfast and lunch served too. Location: 11064 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-892-2435.

Deco Sandwiches: Billed as a “gourmet deli,” Deco Sandwiches’ menu features 58 items (each under $10), more than half of which are sandwiches with cute names like “the Dapper Don” (red snapper) and “the Shag” (hot pastrami). Then there are the breakfasts, salads, soups and burgers, which are 100 percent fresh ground black angus beef. Location: 1361 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-1812.

Jerry’s Famous Deli: Beverly Hills’ ultimate delicatessen makes a home on South Beach. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and anything in between, the menu includes more than 600 traditional deli and dining entrées, appetizers, giant sandwiches, pastas, soups, salads, pizzas and much more. The 24-hour establishment also includes a deli, bakery and full bar. Delivery and take-out available. Party platters for all occasions. Location: 1450 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-8030.

Maxwell Deli: Attached to this Cuban-owned supermarket (in the back to be exact) is a New York-style deli where homemade lunch specials such as black beans and rice, beef stew and fresh cold and hot sandwiches are prepared for takeout. To speed up the process you can also place orders by phone. Location: 1600 Lenox Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-4019.

Mo’s Restaurant & Bakery: Mo’s Restaurant & Bakery serves entrées like fresh roasted turkey, glazed Cornish hen and broiled Atlantic salmon. Plenty of sandwiches and a wide variety of platters. Now serving dinner and offering catering services. Location: 2780 NE 187th St., Aventura. Phone: 305-936-8555.

New York Bagel Deli: This gourmet bagel deli has more than 30 different bagel sandwiches like the delicious pesto turkey bagel. The eatery also has breakfast egg sandwiches and bagels for spreads and gourmet salads, vegetarian sandwiches and a full-service juice bar (including wheat grass). And for those who constantly struggle to find a place to park on the Beach, the New York Bagel Deli has free parking. Location: 6546 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-2522.

New York’s Big Apple Deli: Food made fresh on the premises and served by a friendly staff. Plenty of salads and sandwiches on the menu. Location: 14424 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-940-0128.

Pan Fiore: Located in the Regal Cinemas (South Beach) strip-mall complex, this Italian deli has sandwiches and imported goods for you to buy. It also offers an array of meatless sandwiches and gourmet Colombian coffee. The staff provides great counter service and will help you with the pronunciation of the food as well. Location: 1627 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0930.

Rascal House: Once owned by Wolfie Cohen of Wolfie’s in Miami Beach, Rascal House now is part of the Jerry’s Deli empire. Locals and tourists still pack the place. Allegedly, Rascal is also a favorite eating spot for Sunny Isles’ political class. Location: 17190 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. Phone: 305-947-4581.

DINERS

11th Street Diner: For 11 years now, the 11th Street Diner has been serving home-cooked meals to tourists and locals. Its success has centered on good cooking, hefty portions and a menu of healthy dishes including salads, seafood, soups, pastas and sandwiches. There are also daily specials and a full-service bar. Open 24 hours a day. Location: 1065 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-6373.

Gourmet Diner: Owned by Jean-Pierre Lejeune, this diner has been serving North Miami for the last 14 years and still offers quality American and French fare at affordable prices. Location: 13951 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-947-2255.

FRENCH

A La Folie: This Olivier Corre-owned place has an authentic French ambiance. As you step onto its mosaic-tiled floor, Corre encourages you to sit down, grab a crêpe and relax for hours as they do in his hometown of Paris. Location: 516 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-4484.

Blue Door at the Delano: Created by Chef Claude Troisgras, the menu here merges Florida ingredients with French and “typical” American cuisine to form unique dishes that attract dining aficionados, celebrities and hipsters alike. Location: 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2000.

Café Le Glacier: This French-style bistro features signature French dishes as well as a variety of multicultural favorites. The café also hosts a coffee bar and homemade dessert list. Vegetarian specialties are also available. Location: 7295 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-754-6551.

Café Papillon: Described by Rafael Briand as a “typical old French bistro with antiques and old pictures of France,” Pap’s continental and surprisingly affordable food is far from typical. A variety of tasty soups, sandwiches, salads and entrées. Location: 530 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-1139.

La Piaggia: Serves authentic Southern French cuisine: poached salmon, cucumbers and green sauce; grilled giant tiger shrimps with garlic served on risotto; fresh mussels, white wine and cream, served with honest-to-God French fries; grilled lamb chops with herbs; rib eye steak with Cognac pepper sauce, etc. Location: 1000 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0647.

Lemon Twist: A celebration of everything from Southern France, Lemon Twist features a diverse menu in a chic, casual environment. Selections from the menu include lamb, scallops, mussels, fish of the day, and escargot. The beautiful bar is fully equipped and the prices are reasonable. Location: 908 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-2075.

Plein Sud Restaurant: Enjoy a touch of world-famous traditional cuisine from the South of France while relaxing in a fabulously romantic setting. This quaint eatery is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 6 to 11 p.m. Location: 12409 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami. Phone: 305-891-2355.

Spy Lounge and Brasserie Located inside the Catalina Hotel, this new for 2006 eatery offers an eclectic fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine in a posh setting, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Location: 1732 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-0980.

Tamara Restaurant: Located inside the formal dining room of the elegantly styled, 11-story National Hotel, Tamara Restaurant offers French Fusion fare that sumptuously combines traditional French cuisine with contemporary flare. This restaurant makes the National almost as famous as its infinity pool. Location: 1677 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-2311.

W Wine Bistro: This bistro/ wine shop in the Design District has more than 200 wines from around the world, focusing on small wineries and organic growers. The menu, mostly fresh salads and sandwiches at lunch, changes to tapas and other wine-friendly foods after 5:30 p.m. Happy hour means you can order bottles of wine at retail price with no corkage fee added, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. Location: 3622 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-576-7775.

GERMAN

Dab Haus: A favorite with locals for its Austro-German cuisine, this establishment offers dishes such as bratwurst with veal sausage and sauerkraut, currywurst with veal curry sausage and sauerkraut, pork schnitzel, jagerschnitzel, wienerschnitzel and a popular combo platter with various sausages and sauerkraut. Dab Haus also has a selection of vegetarian dishes and, of course, fine German beers. Location: 1040 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9557.

Royal Bavarian Schnitzel Haus: Open for lunch and dinner, this German restaurant and pils bar features traditional German music; authentic, old-fashioned cuisine and a variety of beers. Chef-owner Alex Richter prepares such dishes as goulash, sauerbraten (marinated roast beef) and roast duck as well as nine types of schnitzel. Location: 1085 NE 79th St., Miami. Phone: 305-754-8002.

HEALTHY

Athens Juice Bar: Sure, Athens has its tasty fruit smoothies, but it also offers fresh tropical fruit salads, fruit and vegetable juices. Location: 1214 Washington Ave.; 6942 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (Washington) 305-672-4648; (Collins) 305-861-2143.

Bites on Wheels: The café and takeout for those serious about what they eat. Provides a menu for its omelets, breakfast dishes, wraps, pizzas, pastas, salads and sandwiches that gives the customer an idea how many calories, carbohydrates, protein and fat each item contains. Also carries an assortment of shakes and health bar items, and they’ll even create “meal plans.” Location: 1751 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-1270.

Exotic Fruit Juice: Chow down on hot dogs or homemade arepas and wash it down with one of their many fresh juices. Location: 6976 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-8136.

The Honey Tree: This all-natural market has a fresh vegetarian deli with a juice bar along with alternative vitamins, groceries, body care, books, and incense for a healthy lifestyle. Location: 5138 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-759-1696.

Juices and Bites: Get a bite to eat at this eatery and juice bar serving empanadas, sandwiches and salads. Chase it down with one of the natural juices made of banana, carrot, celery, beet, ginger, parsley, sugar cane, and watermelon. Juices and Bites offers free delivery. Location: 1014 71st, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-8009

Salad Creations: The name pretty much explains the concept. This storefront next to the movie theater on Lincoln Road serves a wide range of salad combinations or let’s you tailor-make your own for $6.59. There are a few outdoor tables but no inside seating. Location: 1120 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2711.

ICE CREAM & CANDY

Capri Cone Gelato: Ice cream store and coffee shop all in one, Capri Cone Gelato serves delicious homemade gelato and frozen desserts. The gelato is served in a waffle cone or cup. Catering services are available. Location: 5580 NE Fourth Court, Miami. Phone: 305-756-0407.

Dolce Vita Gelato Cafe: Gelato in all kinds of flavors, just off of Washington Avenue and First Street in South Beach. Location: 500 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7818.

Dolce Vita Gelato Café: From a family of master ice cream makers with more than 50 years’ experience producing Italian-Argentine-style ice cream with natural and fresh products. Some of the flavors include vanilla, banana, “dulce de leche con nuez,” and creme caramel. Location: 954 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-865-2523.

Frieze Ice Cream Factory: Just as the name implies, the Frieze makes its ice cream right on the premises. Thus the ice cream and shakes you devour there are as fresh as can be. Location: 1626 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-0207.

Gelateria Parmalat: “The flavors change every day,” says Giselle Nasser, owner of South Beach’s Gelateria Parmalat. Like at Parmalats all over the world, the ice cream served at this Lincoln Road parlor is made right on the premises, using the best ingredients. The staff has can make ice cream “out of anything.” There is also a wide selection of shakes and sherbets. Location: 670 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-9475.

Ghirardelli: For more than 150 years the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has been manufacturing and marketing high-quality chocolate that puts smiles on women’s faces all over the world. The Lincoln Road store has shiny foil-wrapped bars of it in every corner, as well as helpful salespeople handing out free samples right as customers enter. They also serve decadent ice cream concoctions and fountain drinks. Location: 801 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305- 532-2538

Schakolad Chocolate Factory: These hand-made European-style confections will surely melt in your mouth, whether its the chocolate-covered strawberry or the pure chocolate body paint. Schakolad, founded by Bernie Schaked, boasts locations around the world, but this is the only shop in Miami-Dade County. Location: 323 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-569-9530.

Sweet Dreams Candies: Everything from jelly beans, chocolates and bubble gum to taffy, gourmet candy and sugar free treats. Not in a sweet tooth mood? Sweet Dreams also has toys in stock. As management likes to say, this is a place “where it’s great to be a kid in a candy store.” Location: 708 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-8155.

Tasti D’Lite: This New York success story and best-tasting “all natural alternative” to other desserts is perfect for an after-dinner treat or a post-workout snack. Location: 821 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-6855.

Tropical Flavors Ice Cream: Tired of American mainland sort of ice cream? Try something original from the islands from a custom manufacturer and distributor of original tropical flavors. Location: 118 NE 183rd Terrace, North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-653-7221.

INDIAN & MIDDLE EASTERN

Hakan Turkish Grill: This new South Beach spot for lunch and dinner serves imaginative Turkish cuisine, and also offers a large screen TV where patrons can catch national and Turkish sports events. Location: 1040 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9557.

Kebab Indian Restaurant: There are a lot of places in SoBe that aspire to serve the ultimate in Indian subcontinental cuisine, but to really get it you’ll have to go to good ol’ 167th Street in North Miami Beach. At Kebab, the cooks are masters of curry, spices and dipping sauces. And after 9 p.m. Kebab has belly dancers! Location: 514 NE 167th St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-940-6309.

Moroccan Nights: Vegetarians, meat lovers and even those keeping kosher will discover dishes perfect for their diet. Tabouli, tahini and hummus are mainstays. The Moroccan Nights Salad ($11.95) is a popular favorite, and after a tasty array of appetizers, you decide between kabobs, couscous specialties or tagines. Also popular for its live belly dancers. Location: 9555 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-865-5333.

Raja’s Indian Cuisine: Fresh Indian food, such as Masala Dosa, Idli, Uttapam, Chicken Tika Masala and more, laid out steam-table-style. The menu changes daily. Open 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., until 4:30 p.m. Sunday and closed Wednesday. Location: 33 NE Second Ave, Miami. Phone: 305-539-9551.

Rice House of Kabob: Forget the low-carb craze, rice has been “a staple of the diet for cultures around the world for thousands of years.” Try this Persian eatery’s specialty, saffron Basmati rice. Or one of the signature kabobs, like the fish kabob, made with chunks of chargrilled swordfish and onions. Location: 1318 Alton Road, Miami Beach; www.ricehouseofkabob.com. Phone: 305-531-0332.

ITALIAN

Bella Luna: This locally acclaimed restaurant inside Aventura Mall serves homemade pastas, pollo alla diavolo, scaloppini paillard, risotto al porcini and award-winning desserts. Location: 19575 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-792-9330.

Brasserie Brickell Key: Spaghetti with seafood dishes, giant veal chop dishes, antipasto appetizers — it doesn’t get any more Italian than this. Location: 605 Brickell Key Drive, Miami. Phone: 305-577-0907.

Café Avanti: On the walls, replicas of Italian masterpieces get you in the mood as you await the food, which includes such dishes as homemade mozzarella and Colorado lamb chops with spinach. Also offers fish, meat, veal, chicken and, of course, pasta dishes, including the tortellini capriccio with mushroom and prosciutto. Location: 732 41st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-4400.

Café Prima Pasta: A casual family restaurant featuring Italian cuisine with a slight Argentine influence. Prima Pasta bakes its own pasta, breads and desserts in its highly acclaimed bakery department, which has been known to ruin more than one diet. Sit at the counter or bar and enjoy the food, which ranges from pasta to steaks and chicken. Recently completed a renovation upgrade. Location: 414 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-867-0106.

Carpaccio: Authentic Italian cuisine and décor that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to that boot-shaped nation-state. The Bal Harbour Shops restaurant is particularly proud of its carpaccios, gourmet brick-oven pizza, homemade mozzarella and focaccias. Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-867-7777.

Da Leo Trattoria: The first restaurant on Lincoln Road to create a true “trattoria” with “alfresco” dining, Da Leo is also famous for its “Pasta E Pasta” Tuesday nights when customers can dine on any of 12 pasta dishes, a soup and salad as well as a glass of wine for only $11.95. Location: 819 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-0350.

Da Vinci: Offers Northern Italian cuisine, with specialties such as crabmeat ravioli in lobster sauce and black linguini with seafood. A pasta factory in North Bay Village provides Da Vinci with its homemade pasta. Location: 1009 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands. Phone: 305-861-8166.

Escopazzo: Guiseppe “Pino” Bodini has survived on Washington Avenue for more than 10 years by serving really good Italian food. It’s so good, Escopazzo has attracted the likes of celebs such as Bono from U2 and Lauren Hutton, as well as club owners, high-powered promoters and even other restaurateurs. Location: 1311 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-9450.

George’s Italian Restaurant & Lounge: Owned by George and Eli Iglesias, George’s isn’t just a local neighborhood lounge… it is also a neighborhood Italian restaurant that serves lunch and dinner dishes such as lobster ravioli pasta, chicken picatta, pomodoro pepperocini, veal parmesan and salmon picatta pomodoro … and all at neighborhood prices. Location: 300 72nd Street, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-5586

Locando Sibilla: Chef Santi is from Bologna (“The town of lasagna”). So we couldn’t pass up his mother’s recipe. It was remarkable, the lasagna, loaded with beef and a bit of pork in a sauce that was full of flavor but practically invisible, the large slice seemingly white and enticing with celery, onions, carrots and tomatoes. The Ravioli Di Gamberi Con Salsa Di Mare is stuffed with shrimp and spinach, a nice pairing that worked well. Simply put: Locando is pasta heaven. Location: 833 Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-1654.

Mama Jennie’s: Best known for its early bird specials. Your early bird meal comes with a soup or salad, soft drink and dessert. Restaurant has full dinner menu, lunch specials and salads. Food made with the finest ingredients money can buy. Also does takeout and catering. Location: 11720 NE Second Ave., Miami. Phone: 305-757-3627.

Mamma Mia Restaurant: This downtown Hollywood staple serves up large portions of favorites such as fettuccine carbonara and veal parmigiana, but the menu also includes more unusual fare like Hawaiian chicken and steak with cognac sauce. This eatery adds a deliciously authentic Italian touch, a perfect combination for a memorable meal. Location: 1818 S. Young Circle, Hollywood. Phone: 954-923-0555.

Master’s Italian Restaurant & Gourmet Pizza: Master’s has three menu sections dedicated to pizza: personal pizza, gourmet pizza and Sicilian pizza. Master’s also has extensive seafood, chicken, veal, pasta, casserole, sub sandwich and dessert items. Catering and takeout are also available. Location: 1720 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-2763.

Oggi Café: In Italian oggi means "warm and cozy restaurant". But it is the quality of the food that makes this award-winning restaurant so memorable. Located in a small, "cozy" shopping center in the posh North Bay Village neighborhood of Miami Beach, Oggi Caffé's reputation for Italian specialty foods and homemade pasta has created an international following. Location: 1666 79th Street Cswy., North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-1238.

Olive Garden: Serves delicious yet affordable Italian entrées from pasta to veal to chicken. Entrées also come with a humongous house salad. Location: 18101 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-935-5742.

Osteria Del Teatro: Although located in an unlikely place, this fine Northern Italian eatery has stood the test of time by continuing to serve up some of the best dishes South Beach has to offer. Among Osteria de Teatro’s best dishes are the chef’s specials such as seafood baked with linguine, garlic, fresh tomatoes and olive oil. Try the “Twilight Special” after 10 p.m., which offers a choice of soup or salad, pasta and a glass of wine or beer for a very reasonable price. Location: 1443 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7850.

Randazzo’s Little Italy: Boxer turned chef-restaurateur Marc Randazzo takes homemade cooking to a new level. Starters such as Randazzo’s signature salad and other Italian favorites are big enough for four or more to share. Then there’s Mom’s Meatballs — made juicy and soft — served solo as an appetizer or atop four different pasta entrées. The spaghetti with Sunday gravy originated from Randazzo’s grandmother’s recipe and features an intense tomato “gravy” sauce that simmers for hours. And the signature desserts are a must. Location: 150 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables. Phone: 305-448-7002.

Spris La Pizzeria del Tiramesu: Just walk in and try the “Hawaiiana,” made with tomato sauce, mozzarella, sliced pineapple and ham; the “Porcini,” which consists of mozzarella, porcini mushrooms, arugula and tomato sauce; the “Melanzane” with grilled and marinated eggplant, mozzarella and tomato sauce, or maybe the “Rustica” with sliced tomatoes, garlic, mozzarella, mushrooms, black olives, oregano, basil and olive oil. Location: 731 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2020.

Sugo: Owned by the Carpaccio/Bella Luna group, Sugo is sexy, New York chic, with bamboo and metallic walls complementing the black-and-white room design, starched white cloths and napkins and a white, double-breasted jacket for each waiter, in the classic Italian style. Pasta is definitely a forte of this upscale Italian eatery. A winner is the Ravioli All ‘Inchiostro ($19.95), prepared with black, squid-ink pasta, stuffed with a marvelous crabmeat and lobster combo and topped with a very rich lobster sauce. Location: 1745 James Ave., in The Sanctuary Hotel, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-8804

Tiramesu Restaurant: The name of the game for Tiramesu’s Beat The Clock Special: Every day, seven days a week, between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., the price of each of three selected Italian meals will be reduced in price to whatever time you order. Example: Order the $12.75 regularly priced Pipette with eggplant, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, oregano and basil at 5:30, it’s yours for $5.30. Location: 721 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4538.

Trattoria Rosalia: Enjoy Italian comfort cuisine while sitting out on a sun-drenched patio. Menu includes soups, fresh salads, crisp brick-oven pizza, pastas and house specialties. Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura. Phone: 305-792-2006.

Vita: The fabulous Chef Luciano Sautto is a perfectionist and he doesn’t overdo. Just by looking at the Vita menu your mouth will water and your stomach will rejoice. The menu includes items like an octopus antipasto with pumpkin, green pepper and cocoa and a seared yellow fin with caramelized onion, almonds and Caesaruolo di Vittoria syrup, it was fabulous. The food is simple, as in light and fresh. Location: 1906 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-7855.

JAPANESE

Benihana: Still a favorite for locals who want to dine on Japanese-style favorites. Location: 1665 NE 79th St. Causeway, North Bay Village. Phone: 305-866-2768.

Doraku: Popular thanks to its unique Bladerunner décor, its giant saké collection and its fresh and tasty sushi dishes. This Benihana-owned eatery flies in its fresh fish daily. The result: more than 25 different fresh fish choices and numerous specials. Location: 1104 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8383.

Fuji Hana: Enjoy the exotic dishes of the Orient that features the freshest ingredients Miami has to offer. Fuji Hana serves anything from Sushi, Yakitori, Sashimi, Teriyaki, Tempura, Pad Thai, Curry and more. Open 7 days a week. Location: 18757 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura; 11768 N. Kendall Drive, Kendall. Phone: 305-932-8080; 305-275-9003.

Hiro Japanese Restaurant: Northeast Miami-Daders from all walks of life head for this restaurant to enjoy every form of sushi and even the cooked variety of Japanese cuisine. Besides sake, Hiro has a full service bar. Location: 3007 NE 163rd St., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-948-3687.

Shoji Sushi: Japanese animation videos run silently over the heads of sushi preparers while lounge/R&B music plays in the background. Tasty sushi dishes prepared by chef/owner Michael Schwartz himself is served here such as spicy lobster, crispy oyster, hamachi jalapeño and spicy tuna roll. Location: 100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4245.

Sushi Room: A Sake Lounge: You can’t go wrong with Sushi Room: A Sake Lounge. The lighting is ethereal in this 14-table room. This digs are so stylish (think Louis Vuitton slipcovers) you’ll feel like you’re in a movie. The elegantly designed restaurant serves deliciously fresh sushi, prepared by world-renowned chefs from Japan – and nothing is lost in translation. Location: 1810 Young Circle, Hollywood. Phone: 954-922-1103.

SushiSamba: This establishment’s signature colors of mango, rich red, lime and gold cast a uniquely rosy glow day or night. The interior, and every dish, is created to evoke images of Brazil’s annual Carnival celebration. The menu at SushiSamba offers inventive fare that unites bold Brazilian flavors, precise Japanese technique and exquisite Peruvian culinary traditions all on one plate. Location: 600 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-5337.

Sushi Siam Japanese & Thai: Specializes in sushi, Thai and Japanese cuisine with restaurants all over Miami-Dade County. Dishes include chicken katsu roll, conch kimchee roll, spicy beef salad and a house roll consisting of fried snapper, avocado, cucumber and spicy mayo. Location: 647 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach; 801 South Bayshore Drive, Miami-Brickell; 5582 NE Fourth Court, Miami-Morningside; 1524 79th St., North Bay Village. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-672-7112; (Miami-Brickell) 305-579-9944; (Miami-Morningside) 305-751-7818; (NBV) 305-864-7638.

KOSHER

Coifiocchi: For those who like their kosher food Italian. Appetizers include arugula and spinach salad, and antipasto with zucchini, eggplant and sun-dried tomatoes. Several entrées with Mediterranean-style grouper and chicken. Location: 9477 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-866-7415.

Prime Grill: Expect the unexpected at Prime Grill, a 375-seat kosher restaurant that serves empanadas, sushi, spring rolls, chicken paillard, tasty beef cuts and other dishes your rabbi will surely approve of. Location: 3599 NE 207th St., Waterways Shops, Aventura. Phone: 305-692-9392.

MEDITERRANEAN

Bal Harbour Bistro: Located in the Bal Harbour Shops, this charming indoor/outdoor Mediterranean café boasts location, location, location! The menu offers many different dishes including a few health-oriented and vegetarian specialties. With amenities like great service, fun people-watching, a quaint garden setting and light music on selected evenings, who could refuse? Location: 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour. Phone: 305-861-4544.

Bleau View at the Fontainebleau: Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the resort’s lush tropical gardens and rock grotto pool, Bleau View captures the tropical essence of Florida while offering delicious Mediterranean and classic Continental cuisine. The sumptuous menu infuses fresh herbs and Mediterranean spices into exciting new dishes, while retaining the exquisite Continental favorites for which the resort is renowned. And Bleau View continues the legend of providing the most extraordinary Sunday brunch on Miami Beach. Location: 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-2000, ext. 4670.

DiLido Beach Club: The only oceanfront restaurant on South Beach, the DiLido Beach Club mixes the heritage of the Southern Mediterranean rim and the North African coast with the diverse South Beach environment to create the unique culinary experience that is “Sun Cuisine,” a term and cuisine created by executive chef Thomas Connell and carried out by chef Bernardo Espinel. One of their signature dishes, the Grilled Entrecote Steak Naan Bread Sandwich, is decorated with harissa hummus, spring onions and arugula. Location: 1 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-4000.

8½: Executive Chef/owner Jason McClain has created an inspired “creative global” menu: Moroccan-spiced calamari and Mediterranean Lamb Carpaccio, for starters. Not to mention filet mignon of veal in Serrano ham; chicken breast topped with soft, pungent feta cheese; mixed seafood ceviche of crabmeat, tuna, lobster and salmon; and tamarind oxtail. Apple Rhubarb Tart with cinnamon crisp ice cream and Hurricane Sorbet sweeten the dessert menu, while exclusive La Colombe coffee tops it all off. Location: 821 Washington Ave., in the Hotel Clinton, Miami Beach. Phone: 786-276-3850.

Little Mushroom Café: This outdoor café bears the distinctive personality of Lincoln Road, from brick-oven pizza to people-watching. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner until midnight. The Little Mushroom Café has a European touch with a Mediterranean twist. Location: 445 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-9669.

Mykonos: This eatery has been serving Miami some of the best homemade greek food for over 30 years. They even offer take out and delivery. Location: 1201 SW 22 St., Miami. Phone: 305-856-3140

Mystic Pita: Mediterranean and Greek ingredients are combined to make healthy wraps, salads and pita sandwiches at this South Beach eatery. Location: 1564 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-6892.

Ouzo’s: The critically acclaimed restaurant’s menu is laden with a wide variety of traditional Greek dishes at affordable prices in a light, airy, understated and decidedly friendly environment. You really can’t go wrong on the menu, whether your tastes run to souvlaki and a Greek salad, tender succulent calamari, gyros or more elaborate dishes. Location: 940 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-9848

MEXICAN

El Rancho Grande: This family-owned restaurant has long been packing in the locals with its tasty, affordable food and full-service bar. Try some tasty enchiladas, strip steaks, fajitas and scrumptious taco dishes. El Rancho Grande also delivers and caters. Location: 1626 Pennsylvania Ave.; 314 72nd St., Miami Beach. Phone: (Pennsylvania Ave.) 305-673-0480; (72nd Street) 305-866-6516.

Jalapeño Jax Cantina: The new place to find quesadillas and burritos this side of the border also caters private parties. Try the authentic tortilla soup made with homemade chicken stock and tortillas and garnished with a variety of vegetables. Location: 7251 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 305-751-8030.

Lime Fresh Mexican Grill: Yes, it is possible: fast affordable Mexican food that is both tasty and healthy. Menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, fajitas, burritos, tacos, quesadillas and other items. Also serves beer, wine and margaritas. Lime expanded into North Miami Beach this year and has plans to venture into South Miami too. Locations: 1439 Alton Road, Miami Beach; 14831 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: (Miami Beach) 305-532-5463; (North Miami Beach) 305-949-8800.

Paquito’s Mexican Restaurant: Steak Paquito’s covered with jalapeño and onion sauce is just one of the hearty and delicious entrées to be found at this restaurant. Location: 16265 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. Phone: 305-947-5027.

San Loco Mexico: Situated right in the midst of club-land, nightlifers and locals go loco for San Loco South Beach’s tacos, enchiladas and fajitas. Sauces range from mild to tongue-sizzling hot. Perfect place to go after getting a tattoo or drinking at the Deuce. Location: 235 14th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-3009.

Texas Taco Factory: These guys want you to “get fresh” and try their various chicken mole, taco, taquitos and wet burrito platters. Location: 1608 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-5757.

NEW EUROPEAN AND CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN

Balans: The place for locals and visitors alike to hang out and eat linguine with tomato, shallots garlic and basil; North African grilled chicken with spiced pine nut couscous and harissa; grilled chicken breast sandwich with fine roasted peppers, or lobster club sandwich with bacon, lettuce, tomato and Florida cocktail sauce. Location: 1022 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-9191.

Barrio Latino: What kind of restaurant is Barrio? A hostess answered: “Spanish, Cuban, Argentine, Mexican, all kinds.” Under one roof you can have New York strip steak Argentine style, chicken fajitas, Milanesa de Pollo (breaded breast of chicken covered with ham, tomato sauce and mozzarella), Cuban sandwich, and Masas de Cerdo (tender pork chunks served on a avocado sauce). Location: 3585 NE 207th St. (inside Waterways), Aventura. Phone: 305-692-4455.

Barton G: More than just a party planner, Barton G has opened his namesake restaurant at the former Starfish. Entrées include heirloom tomato soup, lobster and chorizo taco, succulent spiral seafood ravioli and sesame tuna with risotto cake. Location: 1427 West Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-8881.

Café @ Books & Books: Nestled amid New York Times bestsellers and local titles, the café serves new South Florida cuisine by chef Bernie Matz. The day menu includes gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads and paninis. The After-Five menu features entrées such as Pan-Seared Scallops in coconut shrimp sauce and sides like Grilled Eggplant stuffed with melted queso blanco salsa. Espresso, wine and beer also are served. Location: 433 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-695-8898.

Chef Allen’s: Started in ’86 by chef Allen Susser, the restaurant now regularly features the “Palm Tree Cuisine” prepared by executive chef Craig Berkower. Entrée items include Fire-Roasted Rack of Shrimp, Green Herb Grilled “Rare” Yellowfin Tuna, Pistachio Crusted Black Grouper and Dry Aged Prime New York Strip. Location: 19088 NE 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-935-2900.

Crystal Café: Crystal Café serves “New Continental” cuisine, which means it centers on international cuisine but primarily leans towards a French or Italian influence. Location: 726 Arthur Godfrey Road (41st St.), Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-8266.

Mark’s South Beach: From his grilled yellowtail snapper with whitewater clams and black mussels and rack of Summerfield Farm natural lamb with crushed chestnuts and mellow goat cheese to the Surf and Turf with Maine lobster tail poached in lobster roe butter and milk-fed bacon-wrapped veal tenderloin, chef/owner Mark Militello keeps it interesting. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Sunday brunch served from noon to 3 p.m. Location: 1120 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-604-9050.

Nemo: Billed as a New American restaurant, Nemo serves such dishes as Almond Braised Domestic Lamb Shank, Wok Charred Salmon and Grilled Indian-Spiced Pork Chop. Food and drinks are served in a dimly lit “business casual Fridays” sort of atmosphere, where recorded jazz can always be heard in the background. Location: 100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-4550.

Notorious Café: You’ve gotta love a café that wears its reputation on its sleeve. Notorious serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Offerings include salads, sandwiches, pasta, meat dishes and more. Set right on the ocean in North Beach. Location: 7330 Ocean Terrace, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-864-6335.

Old Lisbon Restaurant: This Zagat-rated-excellent restaurant serves up gourmet Portuguese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Also boasts an extensive collection of port wine. Location: 1698 SW 22nd St., Miami. Phone: 305-854-0039.

Ortanique on the Mile: Ortanique (the fruit) plays an intrinsic role in several of the restaurant’s drinks and dishes, from martinis to black grouper. But so do mango and papaya, guava and pimento berries. Executive chef Cindy Hutson borrowed heavily from her early background in the Jamaican seasoning and condiment business. Location: 278 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Phone: 305-446-7710.

Peppermill at the Waterways: Former La Paloma owner Werner Staub shows what he can do in the area of Swiss cuisine at this waterfront restaurant. Location: 3595 NE 207th St., Aventura. Phone: 305-466-2016.

Talula: Created by husband-and-wife team Andrea and Frank Randazzo, with its all-new menu this upscale restaurant is better than ever. Try the Hamachi Ceviche, a quality yellowtail snapper, sliced in large medallions rather than chunks, chili- spiced and soy-sweetened. Or perhaps the Crispy Fried Chesapeake Bay Oysters. Hours: Lunch noon to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; dinner 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, till 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; Sunday Brunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., dinner 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Location: 210 23rd St. Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-0778.

Tapas y Tintos: The restaurant and bar serves a variety of tapas, a hot or cold savory dish made with ingredients such as sausage, squid, potatoes and wine that is usually accompanied with a glass of wine. Paella, another Spanish dish, is a Tapas y Tintos house specialty. The food may even move you to dance. Live music and salsa lessons offered weekly. Location: 448 Española Way, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-538-TAPA.

PAN-ASIAN

China Grill: Besides the occasional star sighting, this restaurant has an acclaimed “East Meets West” cuisine that includes gigantic salads, scrumptious Szechwan beef, deep-fried snapper and crispy side dishes like wok-fried spinach. The new Dragon Room specializes in sushi. Location: 404 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-2211.

Lan Pan Asian-Café: Offers sushi rolls such as RDA, consisting of inari, cucumber, spinach, carrot, lettuce, and avocado or Slippery Eel made up of tuna, avocado, cucumber, and scallion rolled in rice and masago and topped with grilled eel. There are also plates such as Roasted Duck Udon, Garlic Beef Tataki, Wild Mushroom Crusted Tuna and Korean Barbeque Rice. Location: 8332 S. Dixie Highway, Miami. Phone: 305-661-8141.

Pacific Time: The Pan-Asian menu features items such as grilled rack of lamb with sautéed sauces and grilled tuna. For the past decade, the eatery has continued to offer fine indoor and outdoor dining, quality food and good service without the SoBe gimmicks. Location: 915 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-5979.

Tamarind Thai Restaurant: Owned by chef Vatcharin Bhumichitr and Day Longsomboon, this is truly authentic Thai cooking with a taste of Thai culture. The menu consists of various Thai salads, soups, rice dishes and noodles, all varying with different meats and homemade sauces that include tamarind and curry sauces, among others. Location: 946 Normandy Drive, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-861-6222.

Tea For Two South: A quaint café that serves up sushi with the style of South Beach and the quality of New York. Location: 1205 17th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-672-0565.

World Resources: The menu spans Japan, Thailand and Vietnam and includes sushi entrées such as “Takka Don,” sushi rice decorated with tuna, and “Sushi Sashimi,” an artfully arranged sushi and sashimi combination, the “specialties of the house,” such as “Volcano Chicken,” a fried boneless chicken breast on a garden of vegetables mixed with hot sweet and sour sauce, and plenty of curry dishes. Location: 719 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-535-8987.

PIZZA

Au Natural Gourmet Pizza: With nearly two decades in the business, Au Natural Gourmet Pizza serves a wide variety of freshly prepared pizzas with homemade ingredients, multigrain crust and tasty toppings. It’s also well known for its oven-baked subs, delicious salads, calzones, baked ziti, lasagna, wraps, and chicken and lamb gyros. Location: 1427 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-7485.

Che Sopranos: Italian-Argentinean cuisine that includes pizzas and homemade pasta dishes. Location: 916 71st St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-8989.

Gino’s Pizza & Brew: Open 24 hours and delivering free to the realm of South Beach, Gino also serves jalapeño peppers, onion rings, French fries, chicken strips and “free” garlic rolls. Location: 731 and 1535 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (731 Washington) 305-673-2837; (1535 Washington) 305-531-0069.

Mario the Baker: Practically an institution. New York style pizza, garlic rolls and more. Location: 13695 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami. Phone: 305-891-7641.

Med Pizza & Shish Kebab: Yep, the two things go hand in hand at this Mediterranean-style pizza shop. Location: 1240 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-1919.

Mom’s New York Pizza: Serves New York-style pizza, subs, hot dogs, buffalo wings and more until 2 a.m. Location:1059 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.. Phone: 305-531-3677.

Moncheese Pizza: To make its customers go “mmmmm!” Moncheese serves gourmet pizza, pasta, sandwiches, salads, stromboli calzone, empanadas and wraps. Location: 9459 Harding Ave., Surfside. Phone: 305-868-6499.

Piola: The real Italian gourmet pizzas and pastas of this establishment have become very popular with the after-movie crowd. (Like its sister establishment Pan Fiore, Piola is practically next door to SoBe’s state-of-the-art Regal megaplex.) And unlike the typical American pizzeria content with serving beer, maybe wine – Piola has a full-fledged bar. Location: 1625 Alton Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-1660.

Pizza Fiore: This pizzeria brings a piece of New York to Miami Beach with its tasty New York-style pies. Also prepares a variety of pastas, salads, subs and appetizers. Delivery, take-out, catering or dine-in with outdoor seating available. Locations: 703 71st St.; 1657 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: (71st Street) 305-865-7500; (Washington) 305-672-2400.

Pizza Roma: The place to find traditional pizza, pasta dinners, veal, chicken, seafood and salads, not to mention the “Roma Dinner Delights”: pasta sampler, eggplant rollatini and cheese ravioli. Location: 19090 NE 29th Ave., Aventura. Phone: 305-937-4884.

Pizza Rustica: Pies are created the Roman way: using ingredients such as tomatoes, roasted potatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, pepperoni, N.Y. steak, mozzarella, asiago, provolone, sun-dried tomatoes, porcini mushrooms, BBQ chicken, sweet Italian beef sausage and, of course, anchovies. Rustica’s slices and pies, while of gourmet quality, are also not expensive. Location: 667 Lincoln Road; 863 Washington Ave.; 1447 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-674-8244.

Presto Pizza: Pasta, sandwiches, ice cream, bagels, breakfast, and salad. Breakfast specials available until 11 a.m. Location: 332 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-531-5454.

Spris La Pizzeria del Tiramesu: Just walk in and try the Hawaiana, made with tomato sauce, mozzarella, sliced pineapple and ham; the Porcini, which consists of mozzarella, porcini mushrooms, arugula and tomato sauce; the Melanzane, with grilled and marinated eggplant, mozzarella and tomato sauce; or maybe the Rustica, with sliced tomatoes, garlic, mozzarella, mushrooms, black olives, oregano, basil and olive oil. Location: 731 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Phone: 305-673-2020.

Venezia Pizza & Café: Offering free delivery, Venezia serves its own brand of pies such as white pizza, veggie pizza, Venezia pizza (prosciutto, fresh sliced tomatoes and fresh basil), broiled chicken pizza and what they call “the House Special,” which consists of prosciutto, ham, onions, green peppers, fresh garlic, fresh tomato, bacon, salami and jalapeño. Location: 6646 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-868-2267.

RESTO-LOUNGES

B.E.D: A lot easier to say than Beverage Entertainment Dining, it’s the actual beds sprawled throughout B.E.D. that make this place distinctive. Also features the modern French culinary creations of chef Vitor Casassola, such as the famous dulce de leche soufflé. Then there’s the nightlife component featuring DJs spinning disco house, R& B, funk and other forms of musical beats. Location: 929 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-532-9070.

Bista Bistro: The relaxed atmosphere at Brisa Bistro attracts young professionals from all over Miami-Dade County. So does the Caribbean cuisine with such dishes as Brisa’s Florida Seafood Sampler consisting of Florida lobster, grouper, dolphin, jumbo shrimp and scallops and the Caribbean Mangrove Bay Grilled Snapper served with mango relish, grilled veggies and spinach. Location: 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami. Phone: 305-714-3680.

Bond Street: A restaurant lounge, Bond Street serves up tasty nigiri sushi, maki sushi and teriyaki-style grilled sirloin your mate is sure to enjoy; and on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays an assortment of DJs serve up their brand of background music. Location: 150 20th St., Miami Beach. Phone: 305-534-3800.

Bongo’s: Owned by Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Bongo’s is a Cuban restaurant-Latin dance club fusion. People have been known to stand in line for up to half an hour for a chance to dance to meringue, salsa or whatever style music the DJ decides to play. Location: 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Phone: 786-777-2100.

The District: Excellent regional cuisine and a relaxed, hip vibe make this Design District eatery a happening nightspot. It attracts a diverse — largely young — crowd of foodies and post-dinner revelers. Location: 35 NE 40th St., Miami. Phone: