The suburban city of Plantation, nestled in the heart of Broward County, may not be the first place that comes to mind for culinary adventures.
However, its unassuming strip malls and neighborhood centers are home to a surprisingly diverse and delicious collection of family-owned restaurants.
To find the best food in Plantation, you need to look past the chain restaurants and explore the spots where local families from all over the world share their culinary heritage.
From authentic Jamaican patties to classic Italian-American fare, here are five underrated gems.
1. Maroosh
A long-standing favorite for Middle Eastern cuisine, Maroosh serves up authentic and flavorful Lebanese and Persian dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The aroma of grilled meats and exotic spices greets you at the door. The menu is full of classics like hummus, shawarma, and kabobs, all prepared with care. On weekends, the restaurant often features live music and belly dancing, turning dinner into a festive event.
2. Padrino’s Cuban Cuisine
While part of a small family-owned chain, the Plantation location of Padrino’s feels like a true neighborhood institution. It offers a slightly more upscale take on Cuban classics in a vibrant and stylish setting.
From the perfectly crispy Lechon Asado to the rich and savory Ropa Vieja, the food is a celebration of Cuban culinary traditions passed down through generations. Their happy hour, with fantastic mojitos and tapas, is a local favorite.
3. Il Paesano Gourmet Food & Wine
Tucked away in a small shopping center, Il Paesano is a hidden gem that functions as an Italian market, deli, and restaurant.
By day, it’s a go-to for incredible sandwiches made with high-quality imported meats and cheeses. By night, it transforms into a cozy, intimate restaurant serving authentic, home-style Italian dishes.
The pasta is fresh, the sauces are rich, and the atmosphere feels like you’re dining in a nonna’s kitchen.
4. Vivace
For a taste of modern Italian in a more refined setting, Vivace is a local go-to. This stylish but comfortable restaurant offers a menu of classic dishes prepared with a contemporary flair.
The pastas are a highlight, as are the expertly cooked seafood and veal entrees. The service is professional and attentive, making it a great choice for a business dinner or a special night out without having to venture to Fort Lauderdale.
5. Ella’s Cafe
A bright and charming spot, Ella’s Cafe brings a taste of the Caribbean to Plantation with a focus on Jamaican cuisine.
It’s a casual, counter-service restaurant known for its fantastic jerk chicken, savory oxtail, and delicious house-made patties.
The flavors are bold and authentic, offering a spicy and satisfying alternative to the usual lunch options. It’s a small place that delivers big on taste.
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