1. Las Culebrinas
City: Kendall, FL
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (305) 969-3995
Address: 12257 South Dixie Hwy.
Description: With its big portions, low prices, and extensive menu, Las Culebrinas keeps each of its 4 restaurants around South Florida consistently packed. The menu differentiates itself from other Cuban restaurants by also offering Spanish dishes like fried chickpeas and chorizo and ham croquettes. Of course those looking for traditional Cuban staples like steak, pork, rice, beans, or plantains won’t be disappointed. While the menu may be of diner proportions, the entrees are all well prepared and the restaurant is widely considered one of the best Cuban places in town. Additional locations are at 4700 West Flagler St., West Miami (305-445-2337); 4590 West 12th Ave., Hialeah (305-823-5828); and 2890 SW 27th Ave., Coconut Grove (305-448-4090).
2. Fuji Hana
City: Kendall, FL
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (305) 275-9003
Address: 111768 SW 88th St.
Description: Japanese and Thai favorites are served at Fuji Hana, which is one of the more affordable sushi joints in the city. Between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily they host dollar sushi nights, which feature most sushi on the menu. The menu overall is quite extensive, featuring every imaginable Japanese dish as well as reasonably priced Thai dishes. Take advantage of a 10 percent discount for ordering online.
3. Samurai
City: Kendall, FL
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (305) 238-2131
Address: 8717 SW 136th St.
Description: Samurai is a subsidiary of Benihana and is also preferable for many Miami natives. Samurai’s “pink sauce” is to die for as is the fried rice—two must-order dishes. It’s a guarantee that after sitting at a teppanyaki restaurant for any amount of time you will absorb the smell completely, so don’t bring anything that can’t easily be washed. Dinner can get pricey but lunch specials, which are offered Mon through Fri from noon to 3:30 p.m. start at $9 and include a soup or salad, cooked side dishes, a choice of meat, rice, and tea. Fried rice typically must be ordered separately and is so worth it.