A lot has happened since the Molina Family from El Salvador opened their first restaurant in Florida. Today, there are six La Bamba Mexican and Spanish Restaurants in the Sunshine State, two of them in Fort Lauderdale alone. La Bamba is a success story par excellence that draws in guests with a wide range of authentic dishes, irresistible sauces and dips, freshest ingredients and friendly service.

THE MENU AT LA BAMBA MEXICAN AND SPANISH RESTAURANTS

La Bamba´s menu takes guests on a culinary journey through the Spanish and Latin American cuisine.

Dishes like Aroz de Pollo with chicken, rice, olive oil, garlic and saffron bring the flavors of Spain straight to your table in Florida. Fans of Chili con Carne should try Picadillo, a stew with minced meat, olives, peppers and onions. Another top pick for meat lovers is Carnitas, the Spanish version of pulled pork, slowly cooked to perfection.

Dishes from the Iberian Motherland are accompanied by New World cuisine. Whether you prefer tortillas, tacos or enchiladas – the La Bamba serves a variety of Mexican flatbreads with hot sauce, guacamole, sour cream and juicy meat. Needless to say, the menu also features burritos. The popular Tex-Mex tortillas come filled with mushrooms, cheese, tomatoes and chillis. If you cannot decide between chicken and pork, just have both and order the Fiesta Combination with yellow rice and refried beans.

Wheat tortillas form the basis for Fajitas bursting with chicken, green peppers, shrimps and steak slices. Speaking of steaks, the La Bamba boasts a great variety of them – from tender New York Steak and Top Sirloin to smoky Carne Asada and crispy fried Empanizado.

La Bamba´s menu has no shortage of hamburgers and sandwiches with crunchy French fries, while also offering healthy salads. A signature dish is the Grilled Chicken Salad served in a crisp taco. And if you do not like meat, the Vegetarian Combination with cheese enchiladas, roasted tortillas, beans, rice and fresh lettuce is your perfect choice.

Seafood lovers recommend the tacos with shellfish, coleslaw, corn and homemade salsa sauce, while gourmands will enjoy the tender snapper with oven potatoes and garlic butter.

Another highlight at La Bamba are the appetizers. Delicious finger food like Quesadilla Tortillas and nachos with guacamole and molten cheese make it hard to even wait for the main course.

Before it is time for an after-meal siesta, you should take a look at the dessert menu. On it you find chocolaty delight in the form of Mud Pie, as well as Flan, a creamy dessert with caramel flavor. And if you did not know ice cream came in fried form, you are in for a sweet surprise.

The drink menu leaves nothing to be desired, whether you prefer soft drinks, red and white wine or refreshing cocktails. The La Bamba is famous for its Margaritas that are also available in the Virgin variety without alcohol.

OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT LA BAMBA MEXICAN AND SPANISH RESTAURANTS

The La Bamba Restaurant in North Fort Lauderdale is open Sunday to Thursday from 11.30 am to 10.30 pm. On Friday and Saturday it closes at 11 pm. The same opening times apply for the La Bamba in South Fort Lauderdale, except that it closes at 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday.

If you want to save money while enjoying the many specialties, visit the La Bamba Restaurants during Happy Hour at the following times:

NORTH FORT LAUDERDALE

• Monday and Tuesday: 4,50 USD for House and Fruit Margaritas with the purchase of an entree
• Monday to Friday between 11 am and 4 pm: well drinks, house Margaritas, domestic beers and house wines by the glass for half the price at the bar
• Wednesday and Thursday between 4 and 6 pm: well drinks, house Margaritas, fruit Margaritas and house wines by the glass for half the price at the bar and regular tables

SOUTH FORT LAUDERDALE:

• Monday: house and fruit Margaritas for half the price with the purchase of an entree
• Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 4 to 7 pm: all alcoholic drinks by the glass 50% off.

LOCATIONS OF THE LA BAMBA RESTAURANTS

Since 2001, the family-owned Gold Rush BBQ in Venice has been serving delicious grilled meat, generously topped sandwiches, fresh seafood and all-you-can-eat specials. Not only locals love to dine here. Some guests drive a whole hour for the delicacies of this “American Legend” – and for the fast and super-friendly service, that is.

With its rustic wood decor, oak barrels and gemstones, this award-winning restaurant takes guests on a visual journey to the Gold Rush Era. Even the plates resemble gold mining pans. Of course, with such interesting aesthetics, the question remains: What culinary treasures does the Gold Rush have to offer?

THE FOOD AT THE GOLD RUSH BBQ VENICE

One glance at the menu is enough to see: Meat lovers have come to the right place at the Gold Rush BBQ. The restaurant is not trying to reinvent the wheel with exotic dishes. Instead, fresh products from the region, epic serving sizes and recipes passed down for decades are the trademark of Gold Rush BBQ. Chicken, ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork are seasoned with a top-secret mix of spices and grilled over hickory logs. This creates the extra-tender texture and an irresistible smoky flavor.

Like you would expect from a restaurant near the coast, fish and seafood rank high on the menu. The choices include fried catfish, cod, mackerel and grilled shrimps. At the Goldrush BBQ, fish and meat also serve as ingredients for delicious sandwiches. And if you cannot decide between seafood and steak, just have both with the restaurant’s Surf and Turf specials.

All entrees are served with two sides – for example, green beans, coleslaw, mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. And do not forget the complementary corn bread – a reason for many guests to keep coming back. While waiting for the main course, try the restaurant’s Claim Jumpers: These mouthwatering appetizers include homemade onion rings, sweet potato pancakes and mozzarella sticks, as well as buffalo wings with different levels of spiciness.

After your meal, you can treat yourself to desserts like refreshing Key Lime Pie, freshly baked brownies and peanut butter cake. And for those who like it healthy, the restaurant offers salads with fat-free dressing. The drink menu features soft drinks, beer, wine, sangria and homemade Sweet Tea – a specialty of the Gold Rush BBQ.

THE FOOD AT THE GOLD RUSH BBQ VENICE

One glance at the menu is enough to see: Meat lovers have come to the right place at the Gold Rush BBQ. The restaurant is not trying to reinvent the wheel with exotic dishes. Instead, fresh products from the region, epic serving sizes and recipes passed down for decades are the trademark of Gold Rush BBQ. Chicken, ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork are seasoned with a top-secret mix of spices and grilled over hickory logs. This creates the extra-tender texture and an irresistible smoky flavor.

Like you would expect from a restaurant near the coast, fish and seafood rank high on the menu. The choices include fried catfish, cod, mackerel and grilled shrimps. At the Goldrush BBQ, fish and meat also serve as ingredients for delicious sandwiches. And if you cannot decide between seafood and steak, just have both with the restaurant’s Surf and Turf specials.

All entrees are served with two sides – for example, green beans, coleslaw, mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. And do not forget the complementary corn bread – a reason for many guests to keep coming back. While waiting for the main course, try the restaurant’s Claim Jumpers: These mouthwatering appetizers include homemade onion rings, sweet potato pancakes and mozzarella sticks, as well as buffalo wings with different levels of spiciness.

After your meal, you can treat yourself to desserts like refreshing Key Lime Pie, freshly baked brownies and peanut butter cake. And for those who like it healthy, the restaurant offers salads with fat-free dressing. The drink menu features soft drinks, beer, wine, sangria and homemade Sweet Tea – a specialty of the Gold Rush BBQ.

OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT THE GOLD RUSH BBQ VENICE

The restaurant is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. On Friday and Saturday closing time is 9.30 pm.

Hungry vacationers will love the restaurant’s all-you-can-eat specials offered on four days of the week:

• Tuesday: Baby Back Ribs
• Thursday: Spareribs
• Friday: Cod Fillet
• Sunday: Barbecue Chicken

Thanks to a catering service, you can also have the specialties delivered to your party at home. And if you really want to spoil your friends and family, buy them a gift card from the official website goldrushbbq.com.

DIRECTIONS TO THE GOLD RUSH BBQ IN VENICE

The Gold Rush BBQ is centrally located 1 mile south of Downtown Venice.

When guests first step into the Ford’s Garage restaurant, they feel like traveling back in time: Wooden panels, nostalgic brick decor and the vintage car hanging over the bar bring back memories of Florida’s Roaring Twenties. Ford’s Garage might look like a diner from the past, but it features today’s amenities: The AC provides pleasant temperatures even on hot days, and sports fans can watch their favorite teams play on the restaurant’s TVs.

FORD´S GARAGE – THE MENU

One glance at the menu shows: Ford´s Garage is a classic American restaurant that does not try to reinvent the wheel with exotic choices. Instead, it serves the comfort food we all know and love: Homemade meatloaf, chili and Mac and Cheese, for example, are perfect choices if you need enough energy for your sightseeing day.

The restaurant takes great pride in its prime burgers that come with the unique Ford´s Garage stamp. Only the best Black Angus beef and aged cheeses are used as ingredients. The restaurant’s entrees are served with hearty potato wedges and fries. Healthy salads that can be topped up with salmon and chicken are available as well. And if you love fish, the sesame crusted tuna filet and the avocado sushi are your top-picks.

The menu also features light snacks like nachos and pretzels, as well as gluten free dishes. Few guests can resist the restaurant’s tempting desserts, among them Key Lime Pie and Peanut Butter Cake. The drink menu leaves nothing to be desired, either: 25 sorts of local and international beer are served at Ford’s Garage, accompanied by aged whiskey and wines. You can also choose from a wide variety of cocktails with or without alcohol.

FORD’S GARAGE OFFERS & SHOP

Ford’s Garage is known for its authentic flair, friendly service and delicious food – no wonder that so many guests keep coming back for more. If you plan on dining here more often, you should sign up to the “Motorclub” and get a discount of 25% on your fourth visit. This way, you can save up to 50 USD.

Alternatively, have the delicious specialties delivered to your home. You will find all the information on the official website www.fordsgarageusa.com. Here you can also purchase gift cards and browse the online shop for stylish Ford’s Garage T-shirts.

FORD´S GARAGE LOCATIONS

There are more than 10 Ford’s Garage branches in Florida, for example in Fort Myers and Estero´s shopping haven Miromar Outlets.

More restaurants can be found in

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Wellington
• St. Petersburg
• Tampa
• Orlando
• etc.

DIRECTIONS

Getting hungry? Here you can calculate the fastest route to Ford’s Garage.

If you want to dine with an amazing view of Cape Coral’s fishing pier and white sandy beach, the Boat House Tiki Bar & Grill is your ideal choice. This restaurant at the Caloosahatchee River catches the eye with its authentic wood design reminiscent of Hawaiian tiki huts. In the evening, colorful lights create the perfect ambience for romantic dinners. With so much visual splendor, only one question remains: Are the food and the customer service equally satisfying?

The Boathouse serves a wide variety of South Florida dishes at fair prices. Like you would expect from a restaurant directly at the water, seafood specialties rank high on the menu. Start with delicious appetizers like coconut-crusted shrimps and golden conch fritters. Afterwards, it is time to dig into the epic-sized Seafood Baskets with Mahi Mahi filet, shrimps and oysters. Meat lovers should try the Cuban Sandwich with crispy bread, ham and cheese, as well as the Caribbean Tacos with irresistible mango-pineapple-sauce.

The Boat House is also a perfect breakfast destination: French Toast, golden pancakes, burritos and buttermilk biscuits with homemade gravy will give you plenty of energy for your sightseeing day. Little guests will love the kid’s menu featuring favorites like cheeseburgers, pizza, hotdogs and chicken fingers. As delicious as the entrees are, you should definitely leave some room for the restaurant’s Key Lime Pie. At the Boat House, this Florida specialty comes garnished with chocolate, making it even more tempting.

Tasty food and a family-friendly atmosphere are not the only reasons to visit this restaurant. Thanks to their own marina and fuel supply, the Boat House is also a prime destination for hungry skippers. Do not forget to bring your swimsuit, though: The restaurant overlooks a scenic beach with fine sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Customers not only love the restaurant’s varied menu, but also its perfect location: If you want to experience the true beauty of South Florida, you should come here in the evening and watch the sunset while listening to live guitar music. As if all this was not enough, the Boat House also amazes with its fast, super-friendly service. You do not have time to visit this restaurant in Cape Coral? No problem. Thanks to the webcam on the official Boat House website, you can check out the amazing view from the comfort of your own home.

DIRECTIONS TO THE BOAT HOUSE

The Boat House is located in southern Cape Coral, directly at the Caloosahatchee River.

For 43 years, the Crows´s Nest in Venice has been serving delicious fish, seafood and meat specialties directly by the water. A lot has happened since its opening in 1976 when only 45 people could sit and dine here. Today, the restaurant can accommodate 150 hungry guests on two floors. Numerous awards say it loud and clear: The Crow’s Nest is as much a part of Venice as the beach and historic Downtown. Thanks to its own marina, the restaurant is also very popular among hobby skippers.

CULINARY CHOICES AT THE CROW´S NEST VENICE

No matter if you want to come for lunch or dinner: The menu at the Crow´s Nest provides the right choice for every taste. Or to be more precise: the menus, as the restaurant is divided in two parts.

THE CROW´S NEST TAVERN

Situated on the first floor is the Crow´s Nest Tavern, a casual restaurant that pleases the eye with its wood and bronze decor reminiscent of old pubs. Like you would expect from a waterfront restaurant, fish and seafood are very popular here. Those looking for a light snack on hot Florida days will love the Raw Bar serving delicacies like oysters, shrimp cocktails and middleneck clams.

Many long-term customers recommend the mackerel sandwich and the breaded scallops. And if you like it extra fresh, just order the catch of the day. Another highly popular choice is the Jetty Burger with prime beef, griddled ham and Swiss cheese. In addition, the restaurant serves a huge variety of sandwiches and wraps. These entrees come with homemade French Fries made from potatoes or sweet potatoes.

Not only vegetarians should try the One Way Salad with tomatoes, olives, cucumber, cheddar and honey-mustard sauce – a signature dish that you can only order at the Crow´s Nest. If you manage to leave some room for dessert, you can finish your meal with refreshing Key Lime Pie, Crème brûlée or homemade tiramisu.

Of course, you can also have a cold drink at the bar and watch your favorite team play on TV while waiting for a seat at the Crow´s Nest Restaurant upstairs.

THE CROW´S NEST RESTAURANT

This upscale restaurant not only amazes guests with its beautiful view of the marina and the canals of Venice. Thanks to the open kitchen design, you can also watch the chefs prepare delicious specialties right in front of your eyes.

One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is Grouper Key Largo: seared grouper filet with scallops, lobster and shrimps, served with Sauce Hollandaise. If you love Mediterranean cuisine, you should try the seafood ravioli with spinach, sheep milk cheese and mozzarella. The smoked Teriyaki-glazed Salmon is another popular choice.

In typical South Florida fashion, the Crow´s Nest also brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table. “Floribbean” dishes include Bahamian Conch Fritters and Cuban Sandwiches with ham and molten cheese. Steak lovers cannot go wrong with the extra-tender Filet Mignon, also available in the Surf and Turf variety with lobster tails or fried shrimps.

Wine connoisseurs have yet another reason for visiting the Crow´s Nest: The restaurant features an extensive and highly awarded collection of more than 1.100 fine wines. 30 of them are available “by the glass”, so you can try them first before making your choice.

OFFERS AND EVENTS AT THE CROW´S NEST VENICE

• The Crow´s Nest Restaurant serves lunch from 11.30 am to 3 pm.
• The dinner menu is available between 5 and 9 pm (5 to 10 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday).
• The Tavern is open from 11.30 am to 9 pm every day (11.30 am to 11 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday).

If you want to dine with a discount, you will love the Happy Hour from 4 to 6 pm and 9 pm to closing time. Then, selected liquors, beers and wines are offered for half the price. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Happy Hour lasts from 11.30 am to 6 pm.

It pays to frequently check the official website crowsnest-venice.com. Here, you will find daily specials like 30% off all wines or dinner discounts for two persons. On the website, you cannot only see the menu, but also make a reservation – the sensible thing to do, especially on weekends. In case you want to host an unforgettable birthday party – the Crow´s Nest rents out its dining hall with enough room for 16 guests. And if you want to really spoil your loved ones, buy them a gift card online.

To keep up to date on events like live concerts, check out the restaurant’s official Facebook page.

DIRECTIONS TO THE CROW´S NEST

The restaurant is located just a 20 minute walk away from Venice Beach and the city center.

The Coconuts is one of Fort Lauderdale’s top spots to enjoy seafood, meat specialties and exquisite wines. Lush palm trees and the location near famous Las Olas Beach are almost reason enough to visit this restaurant in East Fort Lauderdale. Where else can guests dine with such an amazing view of the city’s waterways? But of course, looks are not everything. The Coconuts draws guests in with a wide variety of dishes, fresh ingredients, huge servings and quick, friendly service. Whether you want to go for breakfast, lunch or romantic sunset dinner – the Coconuts is your ideal place for waterfront dining in Fort Lauderdale.

THE COCONUTS´ MENU

One glance at the menu is enough to know: Fish and seafood lovers will feel right at home in this restaurant. Coconut shrimps, linguini & clams topped with mint pesto, and lobster baguette New England style are only a few of the dishes. If you want to taste Spanish, French and African flavors all in one dish, the Jambalaya is your top pick – not just because of the epic serving size. Order the conch fritters to get a culinary glimpse of the Bahamas, and if spicy Mexican Food is your thing, you will love the fish tacos.
If you like it fresher than fresh, just ask for the catch of the day – either grilled or blackened with a mixture of butter and spices. Blackening will give the fish a delicious crust and smoky flavor. Those who prefer their fish raw should try the Sashimi Tuna with sweet soy sauce and ginger vinaigrette. But be careful: At the Coconuts Restaurant even appetizers like the perfectly baked Crab Cakes come in epic sizes, making it quite hard to leave space for the main course.
Despite all the culinary treasures from the ocean, the Coconuts is not only a fish and seafood restaurant. The menu boasts enough meaty dishes to make carnivores of all types happy. These dishes include:

• Tim’s Backyard Burger with swiss or cheddar cheese
• grilled chicken sandwich
• babyback ribs with chipotle-pineapple barbecue sauce
• pan seared chicken marinated with rosemary, garlic and lemon
• New York Steak with homemade garlic butter
• A highly recommended side dish is the coleslaw with sweet and spicy papaya dressing

The Coconuts´ brunch menu provides the perfect start to your day. If you like it sweet, you should try irresistible calorie bombs such as French toast, pancakes with fresh blueberries and Belgian Waffles with powdered sugar. But the menu includes savoury dishes as well, for example sandwiches and burgers topped with smoked salmon, lobster and salami, Italian omelets, crispy bacon or steak with fried egg. A hearty brunch like this will give you ample energy for your sightseeing trip in Fort Lauderdale.
Wine connoisseurs can choose from more than 70 sorts – among them dry red and white wines, sweet rosés and sparkling champagne. Or how about a refreshing cocktail à la Margarita, Daiquiri or Mojito? The drink menu offers the right type of beverage for every occasion.

OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT THE COCONUTS RESTAURANT

The Coconuts is open Monday to Saturday from 11.30 am to 10 pm, and on Sundays from 10 am to 10 pm. Free parking is available.

Monday to Friday between 4 and 6 pm, the Coconuts´ Happy Hour offers appetizers for half the price, 1 USD off cocktails and beer, and a half dozen oysters for 8 USD. Fans of Spanish food should attend the Outdoor Paella every Tuesday and Friday night, while seafood lovers can try a wide variety of oysters at the yearly Oyster Fest.

You can also host your own event at the Coconuts – whether it is a cocktail party, corporate event or birthday. Up to 50 guests celebrate together in the Dock Bar and Oyster Bar directly on the waterfront.

The official website www.coconutsfortlauderdale.com sells merchandise like T-shirts and caps, as well as gift cards for your friends and loved ones. These are valid for all restaurants of the chain „be nice“ that the Coconuts is part of.

LOCATION OF THE COCONUTS RESTAURANT

Coconuts is located in walking distance to Las Olas Beach in Fort Lauderdale.

Since 1977, Chuck E Cheese has been serving delicious food in a family-friendly atmosphere. One of the chain’s many restaurants is located in Fort Myers, directly at the Highway US-41. First-timers who expect a simple fast food joint with a kid’s menu will be surprised: Chuck E Cheese restaurants are not only places to eat and drink: They are super-sized playgrounds with exciting games and prizes that will keep your kids busy for hours.

CHUCK E CHEESE IN DETAIL

KID’S AREA

Chuck E Cheese provides the right type of fun for children of all ages – whether they are three, five or eight years old. Exciting arcade and touch screen games like the fishing simulator let little guests put their skills to the test. But there is not only on-screen activities. Kids can also enjoy themselves with ball games, bowling, hockey, dancing games, shooting simulators and crane claw machines. The games are not only fun, but also offer the chance to win tickets that can be traded for a variety of prizes. Some of the gifts are available for a handful of tickets. But of course, serious players will want to master the games in order to win top prizes. Once per hour, Chuck E Cheese himself enters the scene and throws tickets in the air, so do not be surprised if you see excited children scrambling on the floor. Of course, parents are also invited to unleash their inner child. Thanks to the attentive staff they can do so without worrying about their kids. A ticket-stamping system ensures that little guests can only exit the restaurant with their parents.

THE FOOD

After running around and trying out all the games, your kids will be hungry. Luckily, Chuck E Cheese specifically caters to the taste of its little customers. Mice love cheese, so it is no surprise that pizzas are so popular here. You can choose from three different sizes and have your pizza topped just the way you want it. Of course, vegetarian and gluten free choices are available as well. The menu also features chicken wings, Mexican wraps, sandwiches and appetizers like mozzarella sticks. For dessert, try sweet specialties like the giant pizza-shaped cookie. If you are looking for a healthy option, the salad bar with more than 30 ingredients has you covered. Many different soft drinks are available, and parents can also order beer.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES AT CHUCK E CHEESE

Want to see your youngsters get really excited? Then host their birthday party at Chuck E Cheese. No matter if your kid is into superheroes, football, rock stars or princesses – the restaurant provides the right theme for every taste. The unforgettable party begins with a personal greeting by Chuck E Cheese, who will even sing a birthday song and take a selfie with his special guest. Afterwards, it is time to cut the birthday cake adorned with your kid’s favorite motif.

Your own personal server will make sure the party guests are well cared for. Then, the real fun can begin. The Unlimited Games & Ride Pass lets you try out as many games as you want for 2 hours. In addition to exciting activities like Pinata, no birthday event at Chuck E Cheese would be complete without the Ticket Blaster: Standing in a glass tube with fans, the birthday kid has to try and grab as many whirling tickets as possible.

CHUCK E CHEESE OFFERS

If you want to stay up to date on deals and offers at Chuck E Cheese, you should visit the official website. The best bargains can be struck with coupons. Have them sent directly to your phone and enjoy discounts on food and drinks as well as free game tokens. It also pays to visit the restaurant on weekdays, when Chuck E Cheese offers unlimited games and reduced prices for pizza. There is something for everybody here, so if you are visiting Cape Coral and Fort Myers with kids, this restaurant should rank high on your list.

CHUCK E CHEESE LOCATIONS

DIRECTIONS TO CHUCK E CHEESE

Want to see the famous mouse in person? Then plan your trip to Chuck E Cheese here.

Situated in Miami’s Brickell district, the Capital Grille Miami draws in guests with high-quality steaks, delicious seafood and a wine collection like no other in South Florida. Not only are the dishes aesthetically pleasing; they also combine freshest ingredients with innovative recipes. Excellent service and a truly elegant atmosphere are the icing on the cake. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic evening or invite all your friends to the spacious dining room – the Capital Grille is your top choice for haute cuisine in Miami.

CULINARY CHOICES AT THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

Meat connoisseurs have every reason to be happy: The Capital Grille only serves top-quality steaks and even has its own butchery. The meat is cooled and stored for several weeks. This process called Dry Aging makes it mouthwateringly tender and brings out its natural flavors.

Only the best parts are used for Sirloin Steaks. As a side dish the chef recommends sweet cipollini onions, wild mushrooms and fig essence. Or maybe you prefer the beautifully marbled Ribeye with 15 year old balsamic. Porterhouse Steaks come in truly epic proportions, and high-quality minced meat is served as Steak Tartare. Other popular meat dishes include grilled chicken breast with parmesan risotto and lamb rips with Italian mint gremolada. If you are looking for a filling lunch option, you should try the chicken sandwich with Hot Honey.

The menu also features fish and seafood dishes, for example:

• Clam Chowder New England Style
• broiled Maine Lobster
• seared citrus-glazed salmon with Spanish marcona almonds and brown butter
• Tuna Tartare with fresh mangos, avocados and Sriracha Sauce
• sea scallops with asparagus, shiitake mushrooms, parsnip purée and lobster bordelaise.

Before it is time for the main course, guests can choose from a dozen appetizers. How about fresh oysters, shrimp cocktail, grilled calamari or Italian prosciutto with mozzarella? Another delicacy is the smoked ham that gets its irresistible flavor from cherry wood. Or why not try the onion soup with molten cheese?

Besides all the meat and seafood options, the Capital Grille Miami also serves a great variety of vegetarian dishes. A classic, of course, is the Caesar Salad with croutons and Italian Grana Padano Cheese. The Gorgonzola Salad with pears, candied walnuts and cherries offers a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. Creamy delight awaits cheese lovers in the form of Burrata with tomatoes and aged balsamic.

The Capital Grille’s desserts are almost too beautiful to eat. Choices include Crème Brûlée with fresh seasonal berries, Coconut Cream Pie with a touch of rum, and warm apple crostata. The double chocolate cake is reason enough to stop every diet plan, just like the homemade sorbet with almond biscotti.

The Capital Grille Miami is not only famous for its food, but also for the extensive wine menu: More than 350 sorts from all over the world have been carefully handpicked by the restaurant’s chef sommelier. If you are having seafood, a classic Chardonnay with refreshing citrus note is your perfect companion, while steaks go very well with Californian Chappellet aged in French oak. Many sorts are served “by the glass”, so you can try them first before ordering a bottle. Of course, the knowledgeable waiters are happy to recommend the right wine. For special occasions, the Capital Grille boasts a great selection of Champagnes.

OPENING TIMES AND OFFERS AT THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

The Capital Grille is open at the following times:

Monday to Thursday: 11.30 am – 10 pm

Friday: 11.30 am – 11 pm

Saturday: 6 pm – 11 pm

Sunday: 5 pm – 10 pm.

No matter the date – booking a table is advisable and can easily be done on the official website thecapitalgrille.com. If you want to really spoil your loved ones, buy them a gift card from the online shop. And in case you are looking for elegant surroundings to host an event – the Capital Grille rents out its private dining room. Included are individual menus as well as your own event coordinator and sommelier.

LOCATION & DIRECTIONS TO THE CAPITAL GRILLE MIAMI

The Capital Grille Miami is located in Downtown Miami and can quickly be reached from Little Havana and Port Miami.

The term Everglades describes an area that stretches from Lake Okeechobee in North Florida to the southern coast. Between these two the aptly named “River of Grass” flows through large stretches of prairie. During rainy season the river swells dramatically, turning the Everglades into a watery world with extensive canals and deltas.

This world is home to many animals, among them water birds like flamingos and herons, crocodiles, alligators, manatees and black bears. The state’s heraldic animal, the Florida Panther, also lives here, albeit in dwindling numbers. Coastal areas of the Everglades National Park are dominated by mangroves. These plants with their distinctive taproots filter ocean water and play a big role in Florida’s ecosystem. In the south, the meandering River of Grass empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

OPTIONS FOR YOUR TRIP TO THE EVERGLADES

There are many ways to explore the diverse natural wonders of the Everglades. Among them, airboats are the most popular option. These flat vessels with their iconic propellers have been immortalized by films and TV series like CSI Miami, and are perfect for navigating the waterways. Boat tours are available in many places such as the Everglades Safari Park situated between Shark Valley and Miami. Experienced captains will take you to the most beautiful spots, all the while sharing their knowledge about Everglades National Park.

Another well-established company is Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours. Guests can choose between labyrinthine mangrove forests and vast flooded grasslands. Captain Jack’s also offers Swamp Buggy Tours. The ride will take you through enchanted cypress forests and to a lake where you can spot Florida’s famous manatees. If you would rather paddle yourself, you can always book a kayak tour. Organizers like Everglades Area Tour transport guests to secluded spots in the National Park by motorboat, before it is time to launch the kayaks.

This silent, eco-friendly mode of transport is ideal for spotting shy animals like tortoises, snakes, eagles and even dolphins. Of course, you can also explore the National Park on your own. Boats and maps of the waterways can be rented in Flamingo or the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. One of the most popular routes is Nine Mile Pond – perfect if you want to experience the quiet atmosphere of the Everglades National Park and observe alligators in the brackish water.

Guests who wish to see yet another side of the Everglades should hike the National Park’s many trails. The Tamiami Trail is flanked by tall deciduous trees and runs along canals teeming with tortoises and alligators. The end of the trail is marked by the 66 feet tall Shark Valley Observation Tower that offers a perfect view over the River of Grass. The trail also features a curiosity amidst the undeveloped wilderness: Ochopee Post Office, the smallest of its kind in the USA. There is exactly enough space for one customer. Nonetheless, you can buy and send post cards here like you would in a regular post office. If you follow the Otter Trail, you might not only spot intriguing limestone caves but also the furry animals that gave the trail its name.

Shark Valley is also a perfect place for cycling, thanks to 15 miles of bike lanes overlooking the forested islands. If you want to explore the Everglades underwater, you should book a boat trip to the “Ten Thousand Islands” off the southwest coast of Florida. These islands are for the most part unpopulated and harbor more than 200 fish species. Baby fish in particular seek shelter between the mangrove roots. Situated at the National Park’s northern end is Okeechobee, Florida’s biggest lake and a favorite spot for perch fishers.

FLORIDA’S ALLIGATORS UP CLOSE

Alligators form an integral part of America’s pop culture, and the Everglades are the perfect spot to see them in the wild. The Everglades are also the only place on earth where the cold-blooded hunters share their habitat with crocodiles. Alligators mostly live in fresh water, hunting fish, tortoises and other aquatic species. They occasionally come ashore and are known to cross roads and hiking paths. While there is no need to be afraid of these prehistoric reptiles, a bit of caution is called for. Every year there are cases of alligator bites. The chances are minuscule – 1 to 2.4 million, to be precise. Nonetheless, you should heed the official warnings and never enter the water where you are not supposed to.

Baby alligators are a lot less imitating than their fully grown parents, and having your photo taken with a small gator is part and parcel of many airboat tours. Florida’s iconic reptiles not only live in the wild. They are also bred on special alligator farms. The biggest one is located in Homestead and houses 2.000 specimens. Here visitors can learn more about the reptiles and watch their feeding frenzy. The highlight, however, are the alligator shows, where trainers perform daredevil stunts with their 800 lbs pets. “Alligator Wrestling” not only looks nerve-wrecking, but also has a long tradition that dates back to Florida’s native inhabitants.

ENTRANCE FEES AND OPENING TIMES OF EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The national park is open every day from 8 am to 4.30 pm. The entrances are located in Shark Valley and Homestead. Tickets cost 8–25 USD, depending on whether you explore the park on foot, by bicycle or by car. Annual passes are available for 40 USD.

DIRECTIONS TO EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK

The part of the Everglades not used for agriculture belongs to the Everglades National Park, a 1.508.976 acres area that was put under protection in 1947. It takes about 1 hour by car to get to the park from Miami. Driving from Fort Myers to the western part of the park, you will need 1.5 hours, while guests based in Cape Coral should plan for a 2 hours drive.

Calculate the route to Everglades National Park – Shark Valley

Calculate the rout to the Everglades Alligator Farm

CLIMATE AND WEATHER IN THE EVERGLADES

The national park is open the whole year round, but the months of October to April are considered the best traveling time. Then, the water that floods most of the park in summer retreats. Animals are forced into small pockets and can be observed more easily. What is more, mosquitoes are less of a pest in the dry season. Thanks to moderate humidity and low chances of rain, the month of May is a good compromise. Compared to the winter months, fewer people visit the park at that time.

CLIMATE CHART EVERGLADES

All details on the climate chart of the Everglades.

Alligators, turtles, raccoons and a wide variety of birds – visitors in Naples who want to see Florida’s wildlife up-close will love the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This nature preserve in the western Everglades harbors many rare species and allows a glimpse of South Florida’s unspoiled landscape. Not only nature fans with binoculars come here, though. Benches, picnic areas and easy hiking paths in the shade make Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary a perfect place for families with children.

CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY IN A NUTSHELL

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was established in 1954 to save Florida’s native cypress trees. It was the National Audubon Society that first built a hiking trail. Today, this nature preserve houses the last big cypress forest in North America, after most trees had been cut down in the 1940s and 50s. Some of these gnarly giants are up to 600 years old. Rivers, swamps, pine highlands, flooded meadows and wild orchids also make up the sanctuary’s landscape. Another prominent feature is “Salad Lake”, which got its name for the salad-like hyacinths on its surface.

THINGS TO SEE AT THE CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

Your first stop is the Blair Audubon Visitor Center. Here, you can watch a movie about the sanctuary and see baby alligators behind glass walls. In addition to postcards, souvenirs, T-shirts and books about Florida’s wildlife, binoculars are available here – perfect for bird-watchers. There are also educational leaflets for adults and children.

Winding through Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a hiking path that is easy to walk, thanks to wooden planks. The path is 2.2 miles long and first runs along flooded meadows where you can spot snakes and rabbits. Afterwards, it leads through a cypress forest. Here, many bird species are found, among them woodpeckers, hawks, blue-gray gnatcatcher and the endangered wood stork. You can also see owls up-close, and the small lizards are not shy, either. Thanks to the elevated boardwalk, you will feel like being in the midst of the wilderness – while keeping your feet dry, that is. Rustling in the undergrowth gives away white-tailed deer and raccoons. If you are lucky, you might even see the very rare Florida panther.

The last part of the trail leads through a swamp. Here, splashing sounds indicate the presence of alligators hunting for food in the water. The wetlands are also home to turtles, frogs and fish otters. Before it is time to head back towards the parking lot, you should stop by at Salad Lake where countless water birds like herons, spoonbills and storks live. You can also watch alligators sunbathing there.

By the way: It is possible to take a shortcut midway on the trail. In this case, you will only walk for one mile. If you want to tackle the whole trail, you should account for 2–3 hours. It pays to take your time and walk slowly and quietly. This way, you will see a lot more of the shy animals. As a nice addition, volunteers often walk on the path. They will gladly answer your questions and point out animals that are difficult to spot.

BEST TRAVEL TIME FOR THE CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

Except for days with heavy storms, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary can be visited the whole year round.

In summer, the weather is hot and humid like the rest of South Florida. Most days start sunny. In the afternoons, temperatures and humidity levels tend to rise, leading to intense, but mostly short showers before the sky clears up again in the evening. The winter months see more temperate and dry conditions, making them the most popular time for visitors.

The flora and fauna changes dramatically with the seasons, so it pays to visit the park more than once. Summer is the perfect time to see blooming ghost orchids and watch swallow-tailed kites perform their aerial stunts. In springtime, alligators build their nests in the mud. Come summer, the reptiles can be seen with their young. Flocks of migratory birds populate the sanctuary in the winter, among them colorful painted finches. Herons and storks concentrate around dwindling waterholes, where they can easily be observed.

Please note: From March to November, especially between April and June, many horseflies plague the sanctuary, so you should bring long clothes and insect repellent.

GUIDED TOURS AT CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

If you want to explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary with a group and learn more about South Florida’s biodiversity, you can choose from the following tours:

• Free guided tours on the boardwalk; duration: 1.5 hours
• Early Birding Walk: guided bird-watching tours in the morning
• Ancient Forest Tour: Tours through the ancient cypress forest
• Hikes in the flatwoods, away from the boardwalk
• Butterfly Orientation Workshop: Talks and excursions about butterflies
• Sunset Strolls: Hikes at sunset with interesting infos about the park’s nocturnal animals.
• Night Walks: the perfect opportunity to hear the park’s animals after dark.

To find out more about available tour dates, hours and prices, visit the official website corkscrew.audubon.org. There, you can also read about events such as lectures, concerts, art exhibitions at the visitor center and open-air meditation courses

INFORMATION FOR VISITORS

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary features multiple picnic areas. Eating on the boardwalk, however, is forbidden. From December to April, sandwiches are sold at the visitor center.

The boardwalk is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Dogs are not allowed at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. You will find more information and a map of the hiking trail on the official website https://corkscrew.audubon.org.

DIRECTIONS, OPENING HOURS AND PRICES

The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary can be reached from Naples in 40 minutes by car. Just follow the brown direction signs on Immokalee Road. On-site parking is free.

The boardwalk is open daily from 7 am to 5.30 pm. Last admission is at 4.30 pm, and the visitor center closes at 5.30 pm every day.

Tickets cost 14 USD for adults and 4 USD for children aged 6–18. Children under 6 visit for free. If you purchase your ticket in the afternoon, you can use it again the next day in the morning.

If you want to explore the diverse landscapes of South Florida, see alligators up-close, visit a 200 year old ranch and learn more about the cities of tomorrow, Babcock Ranch is the perfect place for you.

BABCOCK RANCH IN A NUTSHELL

The Babcock Ranch was named after Edward Babcock. In 1899, this lumber baron bought the 90.000 acre area in today’s Lee County from a wealthy family of bankers to use it for forestry, cattle farming and mining. In 2006, the state of Florida purchased this stretch of land known for its great biodiversity. 90% of the area now form the Babcock Ranch Preserve. No buildings are allowed here. Instead, the area is used for tours by Babcock Ranch Wilderness Adventures. On the remaining land a model city powered by renewable energy has been constructed.

BABCOCK RANCH ECO TOURS

In an area of 26 square miles – more than your average small town – Babcock Ranch Eco Tours offers the perfect chance to explore Florida’s wildlife. Here are some highlights visitors can look forward to at the preserve:

SWAMP BUGGY ECO TOUR

On this tour, guests jump aboard a camouflaged bus and discover ecosystems between water and land that are teeming with wildlife: Alligators and turtles are found in the rivers, herons hunt for fish on the shores, and owls can be spotted in the cypress canopy. The extensive prairie is home to Caracaras: birds of prey that feed on little rodents. If you are lucky, you might even spot a Florida panther in the undergrowth.

Included in the tour is a trip to the Crescent B Ranch. Cattle, pigs and horses are not the only animals raised here. The ranch is also home to baby alligators that you can pet during your visit.

The tour costs 24 USD for adults, 23 USD for senior citizens and 16 USD for children aged 3–12. Younger children take the tour for free. During main season in winter and spring, it is a good idea to reserve your ticket in advance on the official website babcockranchecotours.com.

WALKING TOUR

If you want to explore South Florida’s beautiful forests on lesser-known paths, the Walking Tour is perfect for you. And do not forget your binoculars, as the densely wooded area is teeming with birds of prey like caracaras and swallow-tailed kites, as well as woodpeckers and cranes. A highlight is the Gator Bridge where you can spot Florida’s alligators in great numbers. It takes about 45 minutes to complete this easy loop trail.

DINING OPTIONS AND SHOPS

Spending the whole day outdoors can make you hungry. Luckily, the Gator Shack Restaurant serves hearty comfort food like sandwiches filled with meat and fish, tender steaks and crispy French Fries. The deep-fried cornmeal balls called Hush Puppies are particularly popular with fans of the Southern Cuisine. Visitors who always wanted to try real alligator meat should order the fried Gator Bites.

The Babcock Gift Shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs – from stuffed alligators and coloring books for children to stylish T-shirts and homemade chili sauce.

BABCOCK RANCH TOWN

After touring the preserve, you should also visit Babcock Ranch Town. There, you can see what the cities of tomorrow might look like. This sustainable and eco-friendly town features some remarkable innovations:

• The city gets its energy from solar panels and produces more electricity than it needs.
• The residential homes are equipped with Smart Home technologies that further reduce energy consumption.
• Public transport is done with noiseless, self-driving E-shuttles.

OPENING HOURS BABCOCK RANCH

The Babcock Ranch is open seven days a week from 10 am to 2 pm. During this time, Swamp Buggy Tours are available and the hiking path is open for visitors.

DIRECTIONS TO BABCOCK RANCH

The ranch is located north of the Caloosahatchee River and can be reached from Cape Coral in 45 minutes by car. This makes Babcock Ranch a perfect destination for guests in Cape Coral and Fort Myers who do not want to take the long trip to Everglades National Park.

History fans visiting the vacation island Key West should not miss the Truman Little White House. Here, you can learn more about famous US presidents, admire original interiors from the past and immerse yourself in over a century of American history. Exciting events make the Truman White House a perfect place for the whole family.

HISTORY OF THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE

November 1946: Harry S. Truman, the 33^rd president of the United States, is feeling weary after his first year in office. The hustle and bustle in Washington, DC has left its mark. His physician suggests a vacation in a warm and sunny climate. Luckily, there is an officer’s residence on Key West that has already housed celebrities like Thomas Edison and W. H. Taft. For Truman, however, this house quickly becomes more than a vacation home. In his “Little White House” the democrat meets with his staff and makes important decisions. His successors Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kenney also like to spend their time here. In 1991, this valuable piece of American history is declared a museum. However, to this day the house still serves as a venue for official duties from time to time.

THINGS TO SEE AT THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE

You van visit the Little White House on an official tour that takes place every 15–20 minutes and lasts about 45–55 minutes. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to the private quarters and the study of Harry S. Truman. The interiors have hardly changed since the time he left office – from the bedroom to the dining hall and the office where Truman used to sign important documents. You can even see the president’s fountain pen. Countless photographs clearly show that American history was written here. And what did the world’s most powerful man do to unwind? Play Texas Hold´em, of course. On the tour, you can still admire Truman’s poker table.

Afterwards, you can pay a visit to the gift shop to buy souvenirs like books, mugs, T-shirts, hats, buttons and postcards.

OPENING HOURS AND FEES AT THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE

The museum is open every day from 9 am to 4.30 pm. Holidays are no exception. Since the Little White House is still a presidential residence, it may be closed to the public on short notice. Therefore, you should check the opening times on the official website www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com. On-site parking is not available. The nearest parking lot is located on Front Street.

If you buy them at the museum, tickets cost 22.52 USD for adults, 10.75 USD for children aged 4–12, and 20.37 USD for senior citizens and students. You can save money by purchasing your tickets on the website.

EVENTS AT THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE

In Truman’s times, there were always people coming and going at the Little White House. Still today, the place serves as a venue for countless events: from concerts and lectures to fundraisers. In spring, little guests can go on an Easter egg hunt on the lawn, at the Tropical Fruit Festival, the University of Florida sells sweet fruits, and a fun garden party awaits you at the Bourbon & Barbecue Fest. If you want to know how the Trumans used to celebrate Christmas, you should join the Little White House Holiday Tours offered in December. Then, you can tour the festively decorated house and see exhibitions that are usually closed to the public.

Have you always wanted to eat at the same table as Mr. President himself? Then, you should book the dining hall with room for 14 guests. Thanks to its spacious lawn and nostalgic flair, the Truman Little White House is also a popular venue for weddings.

DIRECTIONS TO THE TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE

The Truman Little White House is located at the western end of Key West.