The Joint Bar and Grill

  Located in the Dadeland Plaza 9555 South Dixie Hwy, the Joint Bar and Grill has become my second home, literally. If you’re a fan of sports, burgers, great service, and a wide selection of U.S. Craft Brews, this is the place for you! The Joint also offers big screen TV’s for all sporting events, live music with some of the hottest local bands, and an awesome - but should say - sexy ladies night!

     The Joint has 5 great burgers to choose from on their menu. From The Hangover, a great Latin burger, and now my second favorite; Black & Blue burger. Second because the Caprice burger takes #1. This modern art masterpiece, as I called it, comes with fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, a fried tomato, balsamic marmalade and a basil aioli. I ordered my burger to be cooked medium and instead of fries I had their delicious string onions. From the first bite I was in love. The freshness of the basil accompanied with the warm mozzarella and a patty that had flavor out of this world. I can say I’ve only had a hand-full of burgers that I’ve enjoyed as much as this one.
     For dessert Jorgie treated us to their homemade Cheesecake topped with fresh Guava and served with Hop Wallop, an Imperial IPA made by the Victory Brewing Company. It was a wonderful pairing, and it won’t be the last time I eat it.

     The Joint is not only known for its burgers. The N.Y. Strip and Churrasco are also good. They're a little over priced, but well worth it I think. If you want pizza, order the Margherita.
     Finally, I saved the best for last. The Joint has a huge selection of beers to choose from and a friendly and knowledgeable staff that will help guide you pick the beer that’s right for you. A few suggestions of mine would be: Golden Monkey, Dogfish Head, Monk In The Truck or Tampa’s own Cigar City Guava Grove. Whether you're looking for a specialty IPA, Brown Ale, a Pilsner or draft beer like Bud Light, or a bottle of Heineken, The Joint has you covered.
     It’s only a matter of time until The Joint becomes a local hot spot. It offers a friendly and casual dinning experience, which I guarantee you’ll enjoy. Make sure to check out their karaoke night on Tuesday and Western Wednesdays, dinner specials and the best happy hour in South Miami! I must say…thank the heavens that Hooligans closed! Tell Jorgie I ask you!

Mushroom burger

 

LOBSTER MAC'N'CHEESE
MASCARPONE, GOAT, AND PARMESAN CHEESE, WITH BLACK TRUFFLE SHAVINGS AND TRUFFLE OIL

Hillstone (formally Houston's) @ Coral Gables

Located on the corner of 201 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, this restaurant is now called Hillstone. But, for the life of me, I still call it Houston’s. I’ve dinned here several times for their sushi, but never for a burger. Hillstone is a little pricey but, believe me, the food, great atmosphere, happy hour and beautiful interior make it worthwhile. You’ll definitely get what you pay for.

I started with their famous spinach and artichoke dip, which Hillstone is famous for. It’s a sizable appetizer and, like always, its super good. Hillstone has six burgers on their menu and I chose the Hickory Burger. It comes with Canadian bacon, chopped cheddar cheese, onion, hickory sauce and, yes, I ordered extra jalapenos. The cheddar cheese and the Canadian bacon make an awesome combination. It made the burger a delight to eat. I’m puzzled how people don’t talk more about their burgers. I'm looking forward to trying another one next time I come in. For dessert I could not skip on their Key Lime Pie. By far, it’s one of the best I’ve eaten, and a must have if you’re a Key Lime lover as I am.

Hillstone doesn’t get a five start from me for two reasons. First, the waiting list is way too long. If they say the wait is one hour believe me it is. Second, at times the service could be lacking. What I mean is they're not as friendly as some other places. Besides that, I love the place. You can be sure to find me there for happy hour or relaxing with friends on a Sunday afternoon for lunch.

Pincho Factory Part 2

Yes, yes I know this is a burger blog but this isn’t your average hot dog. It’s the “that's what she said” dog at Pincho Factory. Ever since my first visit here I was dying to make a return trip for another mouth-watering burger but I had to put that on hold until next time.

There is a reason why this “masterpiece,” as I called it, always sells out. Customized just for me by Nadal, who was gracious enough to make sure my dog was extra spicy, just how I love it. Each part of this giant compliments the next, beautifully. From the lightly toasted bun, the crispy dog, the different signature Pincho Factory sauces, jalapenos, and a good amount of potato sticks, which helped keep everything together.

I consider myself lucky to have a place so close to home with great food and wonderful service. I plan on making Pincho Factory my second home. I hope you will too.

"That's what she said"