3 nights in south Florida (burgers, deli, bbq)

Hi to all my Roadfood gang ! (and welcome newbies!)

On Jan. 6th I flew from Atlantic City Airport (ACY) nonstop to West Palm Beach on Spirit Airlines

I love flying from ACY, as it's only 5 miles from my condo..
(as the billboard on the expressway says "when it's silly to fly from Philly")


After I rented a car, my first stop was at Lindburger's in Lantana, on Jog Road.
There are 9 locations, mostly in Palm Beach County. (except for 1 in Naples, and one somehow in the Rochester, NY area) www.lindburgers.com

Here's my Lindburger in it's full glory

It was nice and fresh and I liked the crispy fries, and nicely charred, but I did not get the burger "wow" factor out of it. I like my burgers a little firmer, just my personal taste.

Finally made it to my destination in Hollywood at my bf's condo, where he's staying for the winter.
I just love the view from the front door !

It was right on the Hollywood broadwalk/bike path

Next morning I dragged the bf into the Rascal House Deli, even though he warned me it had really gone downhill. (I told him I would've happy just taking out a danish or something) They were supposed to sell out the place to condo developers, but no deal anymore..
The Rascal House is off to the right, not in pic

This is the Sunny Isles section of North Miami Beach. Used to be worn-out looking 2 level motels, like the Monaco, the Sahara , the Colonial Inn, etc... (their heyday was in the 50's-70's)

Now it is almost all high rise condos, with even Donald Trumps name on some of them. What a transformation!

It was freezing cold in the first section of the deli, so we sat in the other half.

I had the 1/2 pastrami for the "not a bargain" price of $10.95.
It just came bare, not even a drop of cole slaw for that price.
And the sandwich was a bit skimpy.


I found the meat to be a little tough and chewy, not like the soft , succulent pastrami at the famed Carnegie Deli. I would not get it again.

The bf had the french toast, one piece on the left side of pic.
Looks like cheesecake, huh? Came out much too eggy.
He really wanted a waffle, but we were told the waffle machine was broken.

The only redeeming factors were the basket of miniature danishes and coffee cakes, and the rye bread.......those were excellent.

and the server, a young guy named Angel.

One of my bf's friends was kind enough to take us out in his boat for the day. (nice to have friends like that, huh?!)
It was very exciting for me, cause I'm not on boats as much as I'd like to be on them.

The mission was to cruise from Aventura (north miami beach area) to Ft. Lauderdale for lunch.

Here is the view of Sunny Isles from our boat (and a view of another lucky persons boat)


It was cool going past the big cruise ships at Port Everglades, Ft.Lauderdale. The friend even let my bf steer the boat for awhile

Royal Caribbean, the "Navigator of the Seas"

Holland America , the "Rotterdam"


Here we are pulling into the Bahia Cabana for lunch in Ft. Lauderdale

My bf had the baby backribs, which was supposed to be what they were known for. His friend had them , too, and they both gave them high marks.

Ribs at the Bahia Cabana


I had a burger that looked a lot better than it tasted, so I don't even want to give it justice by posting the pic.
Same goes with the buffalo wings, they were just okay.
I sure liked the pina coladas though.


For dinner we arranged to meet my aunt and uncle, (great people!) NY transplants who live in Delray Beach now
The meeting place was the Myron's Deli inside the Pompano Beach racetrack/poker casino.
It sure had the MAKINGS of a deli, with all the Yiddish terminology /definitions on the back of the menu. (like what the word "fresser" means; that's Yiddish for someone who likes to overeat; (that would be ME)


and it even had all the proper NY type signage on the walls, like Catskills paraphernalia, (a Concord Hotel menu, pic of the Ambassador Motel, RIP to both)

After the decent matzoh ball soup, it went downhill quick.
I had the combo sandwich; corned beef, pastrami, and turkey.
The corned beef was paper thin, (not the real thing, yuk) ,more like the kind you would get from the guy in the Deli section of your local Safeway supermarket. (with a Boars Head consistency)
My pastrami was'nt much better. (I really struck out with deli today, huh?!?) my aunt and uncle did not care for their corned beef either. The bf just said it was okay; did'nt want to make waves, I guess.

I now refer to this place as a "makeshift" deli.
(although the homemade noodle kugel looked good)
Next morning ,we took a swim in the condos rooftop pool

I left around 10:30 am to get a head start to make my 3 pm flight back to AC. I had lots of "munch out" stops planned
Char Hut in Sunrise, FL

The burgers and hot dogs are char grilled to order, as you stand there waiting for them. The burger had that slight rubbery BK whopper taste to me (not that I don't slum it for a whopper now and then). I prefered the hot dog.

There are 3 locations of Char Hut. www.charhut.com. Family owned.
I went to the one on University Blvd.

Pollo Tropical

took out 1/4 chicken; it was fresh and tasty. Should have gotten some plantains to go along with it. There are a bunch of Pollo Tropical locations around South Florida


Scruby's BBQ on University Blvd. It's in Tamarac.

a handful of locations around
I had a sliced bbq beef sandwich, which I actually did'nt even eat till a few days later back in NJ (thanks to a good cooler)
It was just okay; it looked like the babyback ribs were the thing to really get there. They sure looked good, but I just do beef ribs, though, and they did'nt have them)
Scruby's BBQ, sliced beef sandwich

I stumbled upon this next place; I certainly loved the name of it!

It's also on University Blvd in Lauderhill.
Was I finally going to get lucky with my pastrami?
I found out they use National brand pastrami, which is basically the non-Kosher version of Hebrew National. Not bad , but not as good as homemade, like at the Carnegie or Harold's Deli, or the Famous 4th St in Philly. I took a pass on the pastrami, but gave them credit for at least using a halfway decent brand.

These last bunch of places ended up being a "(West)Broward County" tour.

Glicks Kosher Supermarket in Delray Beach was next

took out a bunch of delicacies, like this mandel bread



Bud's Chicken, next stop, family owned, started in 1957 by a guy named Bud.

There are 9 locations , all in Palm Beach County
I really like their chicken fingers (the real thing; not processed)
and their fried chicken

Remember, I don't actually finish all this food, maybe only about 1/2 of it!


Remember how I left early so I could have plenty of time to make my flight? Well, now I was starting to cut it close, time-wise, I was getting a bit nervous.

I brought the rental car back, and got to the West Palm Beach Airport 1/2 hour before my flight . And guess what?!? I got turned away at the ticket counter, cause you've got to be there 45 minutes early these days, espescially if you have luggage. (and I had a big extra suitcase full of foodstuffs now)

I had to re-rent another car.

I am a true Roadfood addict now, as I missed my flight due to too many stops!!!

The bf could'nt believe it, cause I had left so early. (he really just does'nt get all my Roadfood antics) I told him "I'm quirky like that".

I picked him up at the casino, and we went for dinner. Ended up at a place called Napoli, a real old school, down to earth Italian food/pizza joint on Rt. 1 in Hollywood/Dania Beach. Looks like it's been there since the 50's. I had the chicken francaise and he had the veal parm. Both very good. I like the way the veal had the slightly crusty edges on the cheese.

This was supposed to be a 2 night trip, ended up being a 3 night trip. Had to "call out" for work the next day.
And we went to the beach. For a snack I had a slice of pizza that tasted much better than I expected (fresh and garlicy)on a side street by beach

I left nice and early for my flight again.
This time I would fly out from Ft. Lauderdale airport.
I got on the phone with Spirit Airlines. I was told my ticket got cancelled cause I was'nt there at the proper time. And that a new ticket would cost $194 from Ft Lauderdale to AC. (yes, just for one way)

Here I am lingering by the balcony. I just hate goodbyes!




On my way to the airport, I made a stop at Charlie's BBQ on Route 1/Federal Highway in Dania..(in-between Hollywood and Ft. Lauderdale)
This place was the real thing !

I loved my sliced bbq beef sandwich; it was a cafeteria style place, you watch him slice it, a father and daughter operation; they are from Texas and told me they have been open 8 years already. Judging from the person on the menu pic, it looked like Charlie himself served me.

The beef was very tender, and nice and crusty on the outside.
Could have used just a little more flavor, more salt or something.
I realize how much I really like this Texas style BBQ, and consider this my "warm-up" sandwich for the Roadfood.com Austin trip!
I'm just warming up now guys, okay? I know Austin is going to be the best ever!!


I showed up in person at the airport, (figured that a LIVE encounter would be best) . And I was lucky to find someone who cared, and she gave me a "one-time courtesy" price of $76.00 to get the new ticket. Plus another $10.00 to check the bag. (Spirit charges even for sodas on the plane now!) I felt like I hit the jackpot though, and was very grateful! ($76 sounded a lot better than $194!)

As it turns out, I really enjoyed my "bonus day" in Florida, so I'm glad for the way it all turned out!


But I think this trip report got much too long ; need to split it up next time: part 1 and part 2 !!

Great trip report Ellen. I enjoyed the pics and realized that I need to get back to the beach.

Keep em' coming.

Thanks for the great report! You sure do pack a lot into your trips!

The last day looked the best. For a little woman, you sure can eat a lot

I am going to be in Naples next week and I have to drive over to West Palm and Ft. Lauderdale. You gave me some good ideas.

Paul E. Smith
Knoxville, TN

Great report Ellen. My wife and I will be in Delray in Feb. and will try some of your spots. Next time you visit your BF be sure to go to Georgia Pig BBQ in Ft. lauderdale. It is located at 1285 S.W. 40th Ave(also known as RD7) just south of Davie Blvd.Phone # is 587-4420 call for hours This is minutes from Ft. lauderdale airport. Georgia Pig has been in business since 1953 at the same location and ownd by the same family. This is a True Roadfood kind of place.

Hey, Ellen...hope all is well. Reading your review has brought me back a lot of great memories of my times in Hollywood, FL.

My grandparents used to have a condo about a 1/2 mile from Young Circle just off of Rt 1. Back in the early/mid 90's, every winter we would take family trips down there to visit. We would always take Spirit out of AC, my mom was always amazed on how cheap tickets were back then, I've heard that they're not so cheap anymore?

We'd always go to Hollywood beach for bike rides. The Rascal House and Napolies would always been annual stops. Always liked the Rascal House, I haven't been there in about 5-6 years but always thought it was good, especially all the little danish/pastries that they give you. I do remember liking the french toast, like you described...definitely a bit on the soggy/eggy side but I think that's why I used to like it so much.

Napolie is still my all time favorite Italian restaurant. They have a great pasta Fagiole and the best Vodka sauce and best Tiramisu EVER! My grandfather used to have a boat down there as well and like you did, we would take boat rides along the intercoastal waterways to see all the million dollar homes and cruise ships. He would even take us into this little cove to see mantee, they would come right up to the boat!

I've also tried Pollo Tropical a couple times as well. It's been a good 7-8 years since I've eaten there, don't exactly remember what I ordered/ate but I haven't really made much of an effort to go back. I would definitely try it again but it wouldn't be high on my list of places to go. Charlies BBQ is another good stop. I've been there many times, used to be anohter one of my favorite spots to hit. I would always get the sliced pork sandwich, never tried anything else but that brisket sure looked good!

Whenever you get back down there, I have to suggest that you try Tarks which is a little dive seafood bar...it's right on Rt 1 right by Napolies/Charlies. It's a cool locals spot...I always get the blacked Mahi sandwich, they also have gator tail, clams, oysters, conch etc...Another suggestion would be Le Tub in Hollywood, just off of A1A, it sits along the intercoastal. They've also got a good Mahi Sandwich and although I've never had it, they're known for having one of the best burgers in the country. Don't know how true that is but I'll tell you one thing, if you like Key Lime Pie, they've got the best I've ever tasted! You may have to wait a while to get your food or be waited on but the setting/atmosphere is awesome.

Looks like you had a great time down there, thanks for posting. I'am continuing my annual trip down there in March but unfortunately not going as far as Hollywood. My grandparents sold the condo a few years back so instead will be spending a few nights in Daytona Beach...there's a lot of good RF spots there that I'm looking to try again and also some new spots that I'd like to try for the first time as well.

Ellen, great report and pics as always!! That chicken from Pollo Tropical looks mighty tasty. I love that many of the Lindburgers locations have "Beach" in the location and then there is Rochester! It's like the old Sesame Street bit, "One of These Things (Is Not Like The Others)". I love the views from your bf's condo and from the pool. You definitely pack a lot of eating and sightseeing into your trips. Rock on!

Up to your usual high standards Ellen. Don't know about now but 6-7 years ago I use to hit the East Side Deli in Margate, it was the real deal. Rye bread, pickles, and Cole slaw on the table when you sat down, homemade pastrami, breads, etc. Reminded me of the deli's in Far Rockaway in the 60's.

Thanks again ... Keep travelin'

Good job Ellen! I always enjoy seeing all the great places you go.

Too bad you had such a bad experience at the Rascal House. Looks like you made up for it by eating plenty of other good food.

Nice report Ellen, and great pics! But I have to comment on the one when your pulling into the Bahia Cabana for lunch. 2 open bottles of Korbel in plain sight... Here in Michigan, on any waterway in a motorized boat, something like that would atleast get you a ticket, if not a ride to the pokey.. They treat it the same as if you did the same in a car, plus the points, etc, go on your driving record, and they can suspend your drivers license for this also. Laws must be more lax in Florida..

quote:

Originally posted by UncleVic

Nice report Ellen, and great pics! But I have to comment on the one when your pulling into the Bahia Cabana for lunch. 2 open bottles of Korbel in plain sight... Here in Michigan, on any waterway in a motorized boat, something like that would atleast get you a ticket, if not a ride to the pokey.. They treat it the same as if you did the same in a car, plus the points, etc, go on your driving record, and they can suspend your drivers license for this also. Laws must be more lax in Florida..

They are. Standard equipment on a boat here is a life preserver and a six-pack. BUI (Boating Under the Influence) is illegal, but there are no open container laws for boats. Still, open bottles on the dash is asking to be pulled over, and once they have you pulled over, they check for safety violations and everything else. (been there, done that, didn't go to jail)

Thanks for the great review Ellen, loved the photos!

Ellen!
You are killing me here!..
All these places from my hometown area..
Now, I am really homesick.
First the Miami trip report, and now this one, ESPECIALLY my favorite, the CharHut.. I love that place!..The one on University Blvd in Sunrise is the one I used to go to all the time when I lived there.....I totally knew which one you were at from the sign!

Thanks for making me miss Florida so much!..
Great report!
Tara

Thanks Ellen, I won't get to Florida any time soon, but it's always great to read your rpeorts.

I'm confused about one thing. You had to stay an extra day at a condo on the Ocean in Florida in January instead of New Jersey because you missed your flight, and this was a problem??? That was $76 well spent!

Keep having fun, and keep posting. --Ken

Ellen

I know what you mean by the view, I love the view of the ocean.

Your trip looked great, ummmm Korbel, what a way to enjoy a trip on the boat.

Another great report Ellen. Our trips into West Palm Beach always involve a first stop[url='http://www.roadfood.com/Reviews/Overview.aspx?RefID=3540']Here[/url] for a good Cuban sandwich. We also usually pick up something for the plane ride home.

quote:

Originally posted by MiamiDon

quote:

Originally posted by UncleVic

Nice report Ellen, and great pics! But I have to comment on the one when your pulling into the Bahia Cabana for lunch.

Standard equipment on a boat here is a life preserver and a six-pack. BUI (Boating Under the Influence) is illegal, but there are no open container laws for boats. Still, open bottles on the dash is asking to be pulled over

I have a new politically correct version pic of "pulling into Bahia Cabana". The other pic may have been just a figment of your imagination (LOL)

Actually, I was grateful that these guys were driving the boat "slow and steady", just the way I like it. Unlike a year and a half ago, when I was on a jet ski in San Diego's Mission Bay, and hanging on to my former bf's back. Now that was scary!

As always, so enjoy your reports, Ellen!! Hope to meet up with you someday!!

quote:

Originally posted by s_b_man18

Hey, Ellen...hope all is well. Reading your review has brought me back a lot of great memories of my times in Hollywood, FL.

My grandparents used to have a condo about a 1/2 mile from Young Circle just off of Rt 1. Back in the early/mid 90's, every winter we would take family trips down there to visit. We would always take Spirit out of AC, my mom was always amazed on how cheap tickets were back then, I've heard that they're not so cheap anymore?

We'd always go to Hollywood beach for bike rides. The Rascal House and Napolies would always been annual stops.

Napolie is still my all time favorite Italian restaurant. They have a great pasta Fagiole and the best Vodka sauce and best Tiramisu EVER! My grandfather used to have a boat down there as well and like you did, we would take boat rides along the intercoastal waterways to see all the million dollar homes. Another suggestion would be Le Tub in Hollywood

wow, so neat to hear that my experience struck a chord with you, s b man!

I did'nt really think anyone here had heard of Napoli's; (considering there are so many places in general in south Florida). I certainly had'nt even realized it was there. We were cruising around looking for somewhere to eat , and as we approached Napoli's, my bf said "I have'nt been there in ages, but I remember it being real reasonable and good". Well, the prices have caught up to the times (my chicken francaise was a typical $14.95), but they forgot to raise the price on wine ($3.25 a glass) and sodas ($1.25). Real good soft garlic sticks were brought to the table, along with salads with good vinagerette dressing.


and as far as boating goes, I agree with you, s b man, as I thought it was so neat on the intracoastal, going past all the high rises, $$$$ homes, etc, etc.. it was definitely one of my most favorite days ever. Most of the time if I'm on a boat, it's the $20.00 an hour tour boat type of thing. So this was special.

As far as Le Tub goes, I conquered it during my Dec. trip to Florida.
Now I wish I had tried the key lime pie, as well

Le Tub burger

almost TOO much of a good thing; a big steakburger; the size and quality of it makes you feel like you're eating a steak. I'd rather have something a drop smaller, and a lot messier. (and what, no pickles, Le Tub??) perfectly charred and tasty, though.
It hits the spot, though. So when my bf suggested we just go back and eat there again this Jan. trip, I said let's try somewhere new.
I felt like I already did the "Le Tub" experience, and it will hold me over for awhile.

Spirit Airlines DOES still have some real good deals, (even $9.00 each way fares) ..they are certainly nice if you can get them.
(certain days of the week, and only so many seats, etc) plus add on all those taxes and fees. Internet-only deals, and you've got to be real quick as they sell out fast. Most of the time, the earliest days to come back for that great price are like 13 days later. Not everyone can stay for so long, so most end up paying normal prices if not even more , to come back
Lots of gimmicky stuff, too ,though.
Most of the time when I look up fares to Ft Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Orlando, it shows either $79 or $99 each way from AC, plus taxes, etc.


No great deal for me, as my original ticket was $178 r/t including taxes, etc.

great connecting with you again, s b man!

quote:

Originally posted by roossy90

Ellen!
You are killing me here!..
All these places from my hometown area..
Now, I am really homesick.
First the Miami trip report, and now this one, ESPECIALLY my favorite, the CharHut.. I love that place!..The one on University Blvd in Sunrise is the one I used to go to all the time when I lived there.....I totally knew which one you were at from the sign!

Thanks for making me miss Florida so much!..
Great report!
Tara

Tara !! Hey , girl!
Funny thing is that I did'nt even realize that Char Hut's were around, (somehow I had let this one get past me) till a few days or so before my trip when I did some extra reviewing some of those weekly freebie papers, like the New Times Broward/Palm Beach (www.newtimesbpb.com) And I thought, "WOW, this Char Hut is just what I like!"

quote:

Originally posted by John A

Up to your usual high standards Ellen. Don't know about now but 6-7 years ago I use to hit the East Side Deli in Margate, it was the real deal. Rye bread, pickles, and Cole slaw on the table when you sat down, homemade pastrami, breads, etc. Reminded me of the deli's in Far Rockaway in the 60's.

Thanks for so many nice comments everyone...!!

Well, John A., it does'nt appear that this East Side Deli is around anymore. (much to my dismay, cause you got me so excited about homemade pastrami!!!) I tried to google it, nothing really came up except a Roadfood forum mention (yours!), and an activediner.com phone # and listing for the place. I called them just now, and got the voice mail for an insurance company. Does'nt look good!

Anyone out there in Roadfood land know any places in south Florida where they do make homemade pastrami?

I'm starting to think about succulent pastrami more than ever these last bunch of days, thanks to TonyBad's wonderful Carnegie Deli trip report!

Homemade pastrami in South Florida? I don't think so. Hey Ellen...Great job! Thanks for the great pictures! Been to many of the places you visited. To find the type of meat Harold's or the Carnegie serves in South Florida or any place else in Florida for that matter is not going to happen unless something has recently come on the scene I don't know about. I've lived here for 25 years and never had a pastrami sandwich to compare with Katz's, Carnegie, etc.

The kiss of death so to speak is seeing those National Product bagged provisions in the deli case - The pastrami's and corned beefs. All the Jewish Deli's in Florida use the same stuff! Hebrew National or National...What's the point? But you can get a good bagel and some really good Jewish appetizers (white fish, lox, chopped liver, etc...) in places like the Sage Deli in Hallendale. There are plenty of pretty good places for that type of stuff.

It's just the corned beef and pastrami that we have problems duplicating. Actually, now that I recall, there is one place that did have pretty good corned beef and frankly I do think they made their own..It was good as I recall..The Epicure in Miami Beach. I went there many times, but my objective was to get their bakery! Incredible! As good as the best of the best bakery in Brooklyn....Ratchlif's.

At one time in the 80's there was a Carnegie Deli in Ft. Lauderdale. It closed mainly because the people refused to pay the cost of the sandwich. I was very surprised..thought it would do really well. It also failed on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Outside of NY, a lot of people just don't want to pay $10 to $14 for a sandwich. I've heard about a great smoked meat in Montreal and a real good corned beef and I'm just guessing pastrami too in Cleveland (Slyman's?) and one in Indianapolis called Arni's, too.

The Char Hut has been around a long time. I think the best thing they serve are their onion rings. The char broiler really gives their burgers a good taste, too.

There a lot of great places on the way down from West Palm Airport that perhaps you have already tried? If not, you might want to stop next time at some of them such as the China Dumpling, Hong Kong Kitchen, Jack's Famous Burgers, Tom Jenkin's, Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza to name just a few.

Great report. Your adventures (and misadventures) always make for interesting reading. Sorry to hear about Wolfie Cohen's.

For good deli in the area, try Ben's Deli in Boca: www.bensdeli.net


For a good burger and a nostalgia trip, try Doc's All American in Delray Beach.

quote:

Originally posted by Baah Ben

Homemade pastrami in South Florida? I don't think so. Hey Ellen...Great job! Thanks for the great pictures! Been to many of the places you visited. To find the type of meat Harold's or the Carnegie serves in South Florida or any place else in Florida for that matter is not going to happen unless something has recently come on the scene I don't know about. I've lived here for 25 years and never had a pastrami sandwich to compare with Katz's, Carnegie, etc.

The kiss of death so to speak is seeing those National Product bagged provisions in the deli case - The pastrami's and corned beefs. All the Jewish Deli's in Florida use the same stuff! Hebrew National or National...What's the point? But you can get a good bagel and some really good Jewish appetizers (white fish, lox, chopped liver, etc...) in places like the Sage Deli in Hallendale. There are plenty of pretty good places for that type of stuff.

It's just the corned beef and pastrami that we have problems duplicating. Actually, now that I recall, there is one place that did have pretty good corned beef and frankly I do think they made their own..It was good as I recall..The Epicure in Miami Beach. I went there many times, but my objective was to get their bakery! Incredible! As good as the best of the best bakery in Brooklyn....Ratchlif's.

At one time in the 80's there was a Carnegie Deli in Ft. Lauderdale. It closed mainly because the people refused to pay the cost of the sandwich. I was very surprised..thought it would do really well. It also failed on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Outside of NY, a lot of people just don't want to pay $10 to $14 for a sandwich. I've heard about a great smoked meat in Montreal and a real good corned beef and I'm just guessing pastrami too in Cleveland (Slyman's?) and one in Indianapolis called Arni's, too.

The Char Hut has been around a long time. I think the best thing they serve are their onion rings. The char broiler really gives their burgers a good taste, too.

There a lot of great places on the way down from West Palm Airport that perhaps you have already tried? If not, you might want to stop next time at some of them such as the China Dumpling, Hong Kong Kitchen, Jack's Famous Burgers, Tom Jenkin's, Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza to name just a few.

I haven't been to the Epicure Market since before Miami Vice set off the South Beach explosion. I have read that it now belongs to the corporation that owns Jerry's Famous Delis and the Rascal House, so who knows what has gone on there. I am going to drive over to the Beach and check out Epicure this week, and will report back.

Ellen, fab report -- and just the types of RF I'd've sniffed out myself! That pic of your Lindburger is such a money shot that it makes me remember all my blurry burger shots over the past year, arrgggh! Chris

Thanks for the photos of the cruise ships.

I'll have to search for the addresses, but on your next trip could you check out Pomperdale Deli on Commercial Blvd near Lauderdale by the Sea; Mo's Bagel & Deli in Aventura; and Deli Den on Stirling, www.thedeliden.com

quote:

Originally posted by signman

Thanks for the photos of the cruise ships.

I'll have to search for the addresses, but on your next trip could you check out Pomperdale Deli on Commercial Blvd near Lauderdale by the Sea; Mo's Bagel & Deli in Aventura; and Deli Den on Stirling, www.thedeliden.com

A special Happy New Year to you, Signman! I was hoping you would pipe in on my trip report, and alas, you did!

Definitely looking forward to seeing you in Austin, and remember that the first meal is on me! (so order up)

Thanks for the info; I'll put the Pomperdale Deli and the Mo's place(that travelin' man is always raving about) on my "to-do" list for a future visit. During my visit in Dec., we went to the Sage Deli (right on Hallandale Beach blvd). I loved their bialy with butter; plus I had some sort of eggs benedict concoction, and she let me choose the pastrami as my meat. (typical Hebrew National stuff)

I've been to the Deli Den, but it was at least 5 years back. I remember a real decent bread basket. And it is close by to the Hollywood Seminole Hard Rock Casino. (you know how I don't like being far from a poker room!)

The Rascal House has not been the same since the Jerry's Deli corp (locations mostly in L.A. area) took over.

I'm glad those cruise ship photos got you reminiscing. However, I'm sure your next cruise excurusion is not too far away! (cause you do know how to live well, Howard)

ttul,
ellen

quote:

Originally posted by Baah Ben

Homemade pastrami in South Florida? I don't think so. Hey Ellen...Great job! Thanks for the great pictures! Been to many of the places you visited. To find the type of meat Harold's or the Carnegie serves in South Florida or any place else in Florida for that matter is not going to happen unless something has recently come on the scene I don't know about. I've lived here for 25 years and never had a pastrami sandwich to compare with Katz's, Carnegie, etc.

The kiss of death so to speak is seeing those National Product bagged provisions in the deli case - The pastrami's and corned beefs. All the Jewish Deli's in Florida use the same stuff! Hebrew National or National...What's the point? But you can get a good bagel and some really good Jewish appetizers (white fish, lox, chopped liver, etc...) in places like the Sage Deli in Hallendale. There are plenty of pretty good places for that type of stuff.

It's just the corned beef and pastrami that we have problems duplicating. Actually, now that I recall, there is one place that did have pretty good corned beef and frankly I do think they made their own..It was good as I recall..The Epicure in Miami Beach. I went there many times, but my objective was to get their bakery! Incredible! As good as the best of the best bakery in Brooklyn....Ratchlif's.

At one time in the 80's there was a Carnegie Deli in Ft. Lauderdale. It closed mainly because the people refused to pay the cost of the sandwich. I was very surprised..thought it would do really well. It also failed on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Outside of NY, a lot of people just don't want to pay $10 to $14 for a sandwich. I've heard about a great smoked meat in Montreal and a real good corned beef and I'm just guessing pastrami too in Cleveland (Slyman's?) and one in Indianapolis called Arni's, too.

Wow, Baah Ben , you are so well informed about this stuff. We really have a good pastrami connection going on. A guy who talks pastrami is a guy who talks my language!

I remember the short-lived Carnegie Deli in Beverly Hills, particularly since I was living there at the time (91-92) dealing poker and working for the airlines. It just could not compete with the Nate 'n Al's Deli, which was right down the street, and has been there forever.

I may have to give up on getting good homemade pastrami (an oxymoron, as it turns out) in south Florida. I'm not a whitefish type eater, but it sounds like the appetizers are the way to go, huh?
I could go for some good noodle kugle, and potato pancakes. And for entree stuff I like open faced hot turkey and roast beef sandwiches. And not the processed stuff, please.

I've been hearing about an Indianapolis deli called Shapiro's.
And about that Montreal smoked pastrami as well.

It's interesting (and a shame) to hear that the Florida deli's all tend to use the same products (Hebrew National or National) . I agree -- "what's the point?" Since nothing beats homemade, IMO. I'll just save myself for Carnegie.
The best corned beef I EVER had was in November at the Ben's Best in Rego Park, Queens. (no relation to Bens Kosher Deli in NYC, and now in Boca Raton) . I don't like their corned beef, as it tastes too dried out to me. JMO.

thanks again for all the great insight, and kind words..

ellen