Blue Collar

After months of planning, unforeseen events and cheap excuses on my part, I finally found myself at the door step of Blue Collar, located at 6730 Biscayne Boulevard where American Noodle Bar used to be. This small yet cozy place has a warm and inviting feel to it and it’s a perfect place for a family dinner or to grab a beer with friends. Chef/owner Daniel Serfer and his team, excel in preparing classic American comfort food as well as diverse dishes with amazing flavors and meticulous detail. Serfer, a graduate from Florida State University and former executive chef at 15th Street Fisheries in Fort Lauderdale, has brought this concept to Miami. With daily specials, homemade dishes and even a large section for vegetarians, I knew I was in for a treat.

Being that it was our first time visiting Blue Collar, my companion and I were pretty excited! I mean after reading the reviews why shouldn't we be! We proceeded to dine inside but the restaurant was full, so our server quickly found us a table outside. After we sat down we proceeded straight to the beer menu where we had a nice selection of craft beers. I started with Magic Hat #9, crisp and refreshing pale ale bottled in Vermont, which I loved! In turn my companion enjoyed a Terrapin Rye Ale, a smooth beer from Georgia that offers a complex flavor and aroma.

Being that it’s October and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Serfer changed the name of his restaurant to Pink Collar for the entire month. Supporting the cause rings close to home for Serfer as it marks the 10th anniversary that his mother, Marsha, lost her battle to this terrible disease. Having lost someone myself to cancer, I found the gesture heartwarming. In addition, the special “Pink Collar” menu features roasted prime rib of beef, seared duck, a salad and wine in which all proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

After going over the menu, I decided on the “Real juicy” cheeseburger with sweet potato plantain mash, while my companion had the Grilled Mahi Mahi with mashed potato and sautéed broccoli. For starters my burger was perfectly cooked; the meat was tender with an abundance of flavor. While the plantain mash was different form the traditional sweet potato fries I usually order, I was happy with my side dish. The grilled Mahi Mahi tasted great and fresh, I didn't feel that it was such a heavy plate that I’d feel bloated. This dish was cooked and presented well and it didn't have that greasy feeling and I especially loved the mashed potatoes because it had flair of southern cooking.

When a restaurant exceeds my expectations its always a win! The food is delicious and the service is great. I mean there's not much more you can ask for. I hope Blue Collar stays here for a long time, I'd recommend it to anyone and I'm already planning my return visit. Blue Collar opens for lunch and dinner Sundays-Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Stop by and experience it for yourself.

Visit Blue Collar

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/01/11/v-fullstory/2583840/blue-collar-low-culture-meets.html#storylink=cpy